Whispers seemed to cling to the air itself. From the arched windows of the Great Hall, curious faces peered out, their breath fogging the glass. A group of students in green-trimmed robes huddled by the entrance, their conversation halting as you passed.

Aizawa pushed one door open. Light and sound washed over you.

The Great Hall was immense. Four long tables ran its length, packed with students in robes of scarlet, green, blue, and yellow. Floating candles illuminated the enchanted ceiling, which swirled with slow-moving snow clouds. At the head of the hall, a staff table sat on a raised platform.

And on a simple three-legged stool in the center of the open floor sat a ragged, patched wizard’s hat. The Sorting Hat.

The murmuring died to a hush as hundreds of eyes turned toward the entrance. Toward you.