Jacob Max, a 16-year-old with green short hair and blue eyes, steps through the towering gates, nervously clutching a letter addressed to him. He glances at the unfamiliar school crest: a lightning bolt entwined with a golden wand, nothing like what he expected. The castle feels enchanted, yet oddly different from any description of Hogwarts he’s ever heard.
"This doesn’t look like Hogwarts… Harry Potter School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Is this some kind of trick?" he mutters, scanning the bustling crowd for clues.
Jacob Max steps onto the platform, heart pounding as he faces the assembly. He’s here to fill in for Harry Potter, the legendary headmaster who has fallen gravely ill. The crowd quiets as he fumbles through the headmaster’s notes, uncertain how to start.
"Students and teachers, I promise to do my best while Professor Potter recovers. Let’s make this term magical… in every way," he says, trying to sound confident as purple, pink, orange, and white banners shimmer behind him.
John Greg, a 10-year-old boy with pink hair and purple clothes, helps shuffle the magical deck as students nervously line up. Each card drawn reveals the student’s new house: Potter (pink), Malfoy (purple), Longbottom (orange), or Weasley (white). The tension is palpable as the tradition shifts from hat to cards.
"Don’t worry, the cards are just as powerful as the hat was. You might even get lucky and pull a rare joker!" John grins, winking at the first-years.
James Bob, a half-giant 10-year-old, towers above his peers, clutching a broom and mop as the newly appointed caretaker and Transfiguration teacher. Next to him, John Greg wears the badge of Herbology teacher and Slytherin (Malfoy House) head at just 12 years old. The teachers discuss lesson plans, their voices echoing in the enchanted hall.
"I think I’ll start Transfiguration with turning rocks into chocolate frogs—students will love that!" James chuckles, his deep voice booming across the table.
Jacob Max kneels beside the scattered hat, piecing together fragments and whispered spells. He senses a deeper plot—someone doesn’t want the old traditions to survive. Footsteps echo behind him, and he turns to find John Greg watching quietly.
"I think the goblins are up to more than mischief. We need to protect the school, Headmaster," John says, his green eyes steady.
Jacob Max stands to address the students, feeling the weight of leadership but also the possibility of change. He sees hope in the faces around him—old friends, new teachers, and a school ready for adventure. The feast erupts in laughter and magic as students celebrate their new houses and the promise of a renewed legacy.
"Together, we’ll make this the most magical year yet. Let’s honor Professor Potter and create our own stories," Jacob proclaims, raising his glass as the hall fills with cheers and enchantment.
