A Legacy in Shadows

The massive iron gates of Hogwarts creaked open, their twisted bars gleaming wet with the morning mist. Astra Blackthorne stepped through them, her polished boots striking the damp, cobbled path with a confidence that belied the distant, wary glances thrown her way. She inhaled deeply, the crisp Highland air cutting through the lingering scents of smoke and old leather that clung to her from her family's estate.

Ahead, the towering stone walls of the castle loomed, their shadows stretching long and jagged across the fog-draped grounds. The castle felt different this year – the air heavier, the magic more restless. She felt it thrumming beneath her feet, ancient and watchful, like the slow pulse of a sleeping beast.

She had returned not to make friends or play games. She had a legacy to reclaim, a family name to restore – and she would let no one stand in her way.