Abnormal ?James Potter?

Chapter 2: Shadows at Hogwarts

The presence of the Knights of Walpurgis infused an aura of gravitas among the Slytherins, their esteemed status within the wizarding society a beacon of aspiration. A mixture of reverence and ambition rippled through their ranks, invigorating their shared purpose towards a future sculpted by pureblood ideology.

Narcissa, balancing the interplay between visible loyalties and hidden ambitions, exchanged a quick glance with Bellatrix, recognizing Cassiopeia's sway over the gathering and the subtle challenge it posed within their political union.

Across the hall, Sirius Black's laughter rang, carefree and confident—an affront wrapped in innocence. Cassiopeia's resolve tightened, the sound a reminder of betrayal's sting and the drive to reclaim her family's marred honor. Her honor. Her trust.

Narcissa's gaze met hers with a silent acknowledgment, sharing in the undercurrents of familial duty, even beneath the unspoken tensions. Within the Great Hall, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, the year stretching ahead like an unscripted play waiting to unfold. Cassiopeia savored the anticipation of the feast, her senses finely attuned to the intricate dance of power and ambition surrounding her.

Bellatrix let her gaze drift across the hall with a predatory gleam in her eye, her patented maniacal stare eying Cassiopeia not like a sister, but prey. "Do you feel it, Cassiopeia? The tension? It slithers through these stones like a stirring serpent."

Cassiopeia nodded slightly, her attention poised. Never let her get to you. Never show they have the upper hand. "Each year brings a new game, and this year, we shall play it to its fullest advantage."

Narcissa, a diplomat amid ambition, acknowledged the undercurrents roiling beneath their plans. "But the Sorting Hat still sings of unity and understanding. What if—"

Before Narcissa could finish, the hall's ambient buzz quieted abruptly as Professor McGonagall's clear voice cut across the room, announcing a surprise.

 "Students, before we commence our feast, I'm pleased to announce a change. This year includes an inter-house event, meant to foster cooperation among Hogwarts' best."

The words hung in the air, a mix of curiosity and skepticism snaking through the tables. It was a change unforeseen, a ripple of uncertainty disrupting the status quo and mingling with the natural distrust between houses.

Things couldn't possibly swing more her way.

This was a chance.

This was her chance.

Cassiopeia's eyes never left McGonagall, her mind already calculating the implications. "An inter-house event..." she mused aloud, her voice calculating, "A golden opportunity wrapped in the guise of cooperation."

Evan Rosier turned to her, his expression contemplative yet excited by the aspect of... change. Something beyond the political games his group played. "Doesn't this oversight by Dumbledore open new avenues for us, Cassiopeia?"

"Indeed," Cassiopeia agreed, her mind racing with potential strategies. "If the foundations of house rivalries are to be challenged, we'll be at the forefront to harness their disruption."

Bellatrix's smile widened, an echo of shared ambition. "The valiant, blind lions forced to cooperate with the cunning serpents? Oh, the irony rings beautifully sweet."

The hall returned to a steady hum as McGonagall continued outlining the logistics of this unforeseen event, the excitement among students palpable—a shared adventure for some, a battleground for others.

Narcissa leaned closer, her voice barely more than a whisper. "This shifts things, Cassiopeia. There could be a chance to turn their unity into their greatest division."