Were there students in the Slytherin common room? Surely there must be a few. Bartholomew lazily moved for the window. When he got there he peered in. It was always so cozy and welcoming looking. If Bartholomew could have moved in there he would have. He did like the Great Lake still. Bartholomew lifted a tentacle. It was waved to attract the attention of students. Who wanted to speak with the Giant Squid of Hogwarts?

Rayna, having just arrived in the common room looked around. It didn't seem like anyone was in. 'That's alright'. She thought to herself and fixed herself a hot chocolate and then plopped herself down in the middle of an abundance of cushions beneath a large window.
The girl had to admit, her brothers had told her how amazing this school was, but none of them had the privilege of being in a common room that was under a lake!
Rayna pulled a book out of her bag and started to settle in as she sipped her hot drink.

But what was this? Some sort of shadow crossed in front of the green tinted light coming from the windows around her. Rayna sat up and her mouth fell agape, and she nearly dropped her drink. 'A squid!?!' The massive creature was right in front of the window..."Is it...waving?" The girl managed to say as she crept closer.
After a moment of looking completely dumbstruck, and staring at the giant squid, Rayna raised her own hand and gave a little wave to say 'Hello.'
Rayna's family had mentioned the giant squid in the lake that would come to the surface once in a while, but they never had the chance to see it eye to eye. "Hello." She finally said, and placed her drink down. "My family told me about you! I've heard you're very nice." Her politeness knew no boundaries. Even towards massive water-dwelling creatures.

The Slytherin common room could be a very nice place to draw on occasion. Olly liked taking his sketchbook down to the windows and seeing if there was anything interesting to draw. Sometimes there was only the murky darkness of the lake. But most of the time there was at least something swimming past. He liked it best when the creatures stopped to curiously look through the windows, staying still long enough to let him draw them properly. When he approached the windows today, sketchbook in hand of course, he was delighted to see a familiar giant squid at the window.

"Good morning Mr. Squid." Was it still morning? Could squids even tell time? Could he hear through the glass of the windows? That one Olly thought was probably a yes because magic and all. The prefect turned his attention to another person talking to the squid. A small person. A first year, he was pretty sure. He smiled at her. "He is very friendly." He emphasized the he just a bit. It was just a little rude to refer to someone as it, even squids.

Rayna turned at the sound of another voice, and saw the older student who had addressed her. If she wasn't mistaken, he was a prefect for the school.
The girl smiled a little bit, "Does he have a name?" Rayna asked. "And do you see a lot of other visitors come by the windows down here?"
This was clearly the best common room, Rayna had decided. Sure, others may be able to see the weather and trees. And no, she hadn't seen any of the others first-hand. But for Rayna, seeing the plant and marine life out your window every morning was much more transfixing. "Sorry-" The girl piped up after a moment of watching the squid again, "I'm Rayna. I'm new."

His name? Right. Olly knew that. He had been acquainted with the squid before, and definitely read about him, considering he was a notable Hogwarts fixture. He should know his name. "Yes. I believe it's, uh, something with a B. Barty? No, Bartholomew. Yeah that's it. Bartholomew." He looked to the squid himself for confirmation. Perhaps it was best if he handled his own introduction? Olly was better equipped to handle the girl's other question. "Oh yes definitely. There's always lots of fish. The occasional grindylow. Merpeople swim by sometimes but they're not the friendliest."

He smiled at her. "Nice to meet you Rayna. First year, I take it?" It was possible that she could be a young transfer, but first year seemed most likely. "I'm Oliver. Or Olly, if you prefer. I'm a sixth year, and one of the Slytherin prefects." If she couldn't already tell because of the badge and all.

"Bartholomew." Rayna repeated with a small smile, looking towards the squid in the window. Yes, that name sounded appropriate for a giant squid...if that was his real name.
The squid was great, and so were the fish, but the idea of actually seeing a merperson within a few feet of herself was a bit frightening. They were a creature that had always scared Rayna. She shuddered slightly at the thought.

Rayna nodded, "Yeah, first year." She confirmed, knowing that it must have been obvious. "Nice to meet you as well, Oliver."
The girl picked her cup of hot chocolate up and took a sip. She'd not eaten much yet today, but the chocolatey drink was a good pick-me-up. "If you don't mind me asking, any helpful tips a first year should know?" It was big school, after all. Surely there would be a couple things a newcomer should know?

A seemingly first year was not too far from the window. Would Bartholomew attract her attention with his waving? It seemed like he would. It was no surprise to old Bartholomew that she was awestruck by him. The quid gazed at her with kind eyes. “Hello. Are you new here?’’ The compliment pleased him. “I would like to think that I am. That is why I am dropping by to visit you Slytherins. So I can say hello since this is the only House I can visit.’’

Bartholomew waved as someone else joined them. It was a someone else he knew. “Oliver. Good morning to you too. Yes my name is Bartholomew. It is a mouthful I know.’’ He loved his name regardless. “What are your plans for the day? Will either of you be coming down to the Lake?’’ Did they mind him listening on their conversation? He found talk of a students school life very interesting.

Rayna's eyes widened. 'The giant squid can speak?' Oh my goodness. And it was times like these that Rayna was so thankful to be a witch. "I didn't know you could speak!" She replied excitedly, and hopped up onto the couch so that she was only inches away from the glass.
Nobody had mentioned THAT to her at home. Perhaps he could only speak under water? "Well...didn't know that you could speak to humans." The girl added. Of course Bartholomew must converse with other marine folk and creatures.
She nodded, "Mhm, brand new. It's my very first year." And first few days still, in fact. "It must be great being able to meet so many students that come through Hogwarts." Rayna said. The giant squid must have met so many, and seen so much.

Skylar had to admit that one of the amazing things about the Slytherin common room was the front view of the Great Lake. Not many students could boast about getting to see the Great Lake below surface level, without even having to leave the comfort of ones common room. Darting over to the lake, she stood wide-eyed as it seemed the squid was there to pay them a visit too.

"Hello Oliver! Congrats on Prefect, by the way," Sky smiled at the older boy, and then gave a friendly smile for the younger girl present as well, "Hi there, welcome to Slytherin House. I'm Skylar."

And now for the squid, "Hello Bartholomew, so nice to see you!" It was strange that this was the first time in her three full years at Hogwarts that she was meeting the famed Giant Squid, but also kind of exciting too. And a definite mood booster! Noah would be so jealous!

Zarina thought it might be time to explore the common room. She heard there was a lake underneath their common room and she had to see for herself. As she walked down the stairs, she heard some other voices. Maybe voices from her fellow slytherins? As Zae made her entrance her hunch was right. There were other slytherins in here. They were not alone, there was a giant squid in the lake. It seemed to be talking? A Giant Squid at Hogwarts well anything can happen they say. Zae being the quiet observer she was, she heard one girl mutter Bartholomew as she was talking to the squid. I guess it was his name? Yup it was. Zae stared at him in awe. She never saw a squid in her life.

Helpful tips? The question was simple enough but it certainly felt like a lot of pressure. He should be prepared for questions like that, considering he was a prefect and all. Olly kept a calm expression on his face, not letting the first year see the internal panicking that was happening. He thought for a moment before answering, making sure his words were not too jumbled. "Don't be late for class." He smiled. "Your grades are important but don't forget to have fun, too. Especially in your early years. Hogwarts has a lot to explore." Not that he thought she'd be one of those who was obsessed with grades and didn't know how to have fun. She was a Slytherin, after all, and not a Ravenclaw.



Olly had been acquainted with the squid before, but he was surprised that the creature had remembered his name. Had he made such a lasting impact? Or maybe squids just had remarkably good memories. He thought that was elephants, not squids, though he supposed it could be both. In any case, Olly offered a friendly smile for Batholomew. (Yes, he had gotten his name right). "I didn't have any specific plans, really. Maybe I will go for a swim. It looks like a very nice day."



Before Olly knew it, two newcomers had joined their little group by the window. He recognized both of them and smiled at each as they approached. "Hello Skylar. Thanks." He smiled and absentmindedly fiddled a bit with his badge. "Is it true that your brother didn't come back to Hogwarts?" That's what Noelle had said, and he figured Skylar might have more information. Not that it was any of his business, but he was a very curious person, okay?

The other newcomer was another new student, one that Olly recognized from the feast. He waved at her. "Hello. It's Zarina, right?" She'd introduced herself, hadn't she? Or maybe he'd just overheard her introducing herself to someone else. Either way he was pretty sure that was her name. "How are you liking Slytherin so far?"

Tearing her eyes away from the giant squid in the window for a moment, Rayna gave another smile and nod to the older girl who had just arrived. "Thank you, Skylar. I'm Rayna." Now it seemed like there was more life coming to the common room....Then another student appeared.

Rayna smiled again to the student who just arrived. This girl was definitely closer to Rayna's age. "Hello, I'm Rayna." 'Yes. And she may have gotten that information while you introduced yourself just five seconds ago.'

Ah, some more information. 'Grades are important, but don't forget to have fun, Rayna.' She thought to herself and nodded her head to that one specifically. "I plan on doing some exploring definitely. Later today in fact." She grinned, "This place has so much going on." How will she ever keep up?

Feeling the presence of someone beside her, Skylar recognized the girl as one of the ones who had been playing cards at the feast. She was new, a first or second year, Skylar was sure. And apparently, as Oliver suggested (how he knew that was beyond Skylar's knowledge!), her name was Zarina? Maybe?

"Amazing view we have, huh?" Sky said by way of conversation to the younger snakette. Who needed to have a view of the landscape from the towers, when one could see on the sea!

Also, what was that that Oliver asked? Oh, she had forgotten that he was in the same year as Noah and Noelle, so it made sense he would know him. "No, he didn't. Last minute. I'm not sure the whole story, but he made it sound pertinent that he didn't come back." Which was annoying really, especially because she doubted she would have been so impulsive at the feast had he been there. Yes, she was blaming her lapse in logic on her brother's absence.

Bartholomew’s eyes shone and it seemed as though he were smiling with his eyes. “I like your excitement.’’ The little first years bouncing made him well aware of just how excited she was. “I’m a magical squid,’’ said a rather proud Bartholomew. “I can talk underwater and you are still able to hear me. I’ve been in these waters for many a years. As for your years at Hogwarts young lady. You are bound to enjoy them even if there are crazy activities going on.''

That was surprise written on Oliver’s face. Bartholomew had been a long time enough to read human facial expressions. But what was he surprised about? “You can join me in basking in the sun. Thats always something fun to do particularly if you’re having a lazy day. Take me up on that offer sometime if you like Oliver.’’

“Hello Snakettes.’’ Bartholomew inclined his great head politely to the girls joining them (Zae and Skylar). “Did you have a great day so far? Is it true there is to be some sort of a tournament at Hogwarts this year?’’

Rayna beamed back....but realized something. "Oh! I'm sorry, my name is Rayna." In all the excitement, she forgot to introduce herself.

The girl sipped her hot chocolate again, and after considering something for a brief moment said to Bartholomew, "And if there's any human food you like, let me know. I can try and get some for you. I can leave it by the lake shore." Who knew a squid could be so friendly? Seemed the least the kid could do since the squid was so welcoming. And he really did seem to enjoy all the student presence.

Zarina snapped out of her trance at staring at the giant squid in front of her. Man that thing was MASSIVE. She heard someone muttering something to her. She turned her head and realized it was the Slytherin Prefect. Luckily enough she didn't need him to repeat what he said because she caught on. "Oh erm yeah. Yeah I am Zarina." She couldn't remember his name so she let that go. How did she like Slytherin house so far? Well...let's see. "Well the house ghost could do with a few manners thats for sure. Other than that it is pretty awesome so far. I am liking this common room area. Pretty legit.." She made her way to the comfy couches and plopped into it.

Zae saw a girl who was similiar to her age introduced herself. "Hello Rayna, nice to meet ya. I think we share the dormitory together right?" She looked familiar thats for sure. "You liking that giant squid over there?" I mean Zae was still a bit spooked. She heard Skylar make a comment. She got her name from the convo. "Yeah pretty cool view. I like the concept that we are under the lake though. I never thought our common room would have this view.." she couldn't help but stare at the window.

Woah woah woah the squid was talking again. Zae didn't know how she was gonna handle it. Then she made eye contact and the creature was asking how she was. Ermm....this wasn't weird at all? She needed to be polite. It could eat her you never know. "Yeah yeah I had an awesome day..." Unless you count getting insulted by your house ghost then sure. "Ooohh yeah there is a tournament coming up. It is for the school....Ilvermorny or something like that..they are coming here for it. I can fancy myself meeting american students." Maybe some cute boys too? Who knows!

Rayna. "Nice to meet you Rayna. Such a pretty name," Skylar nodded, as she glanced back at the giant squid. Ugh, the Baron really could learn a few mannerisms from the sea creature. Could they like adopt the squid to replace the Baron? Not that the squid was a ghost, nor did Skylar want the squid to die, but it was the principle of the matter.

"My day has been alright, you know... just getting back into the swing of things. But yes, tournament. That apparently you have to be at least a fifth year to enter," which was kind of lame, because fourth years knew plenty of magic too! But she guessed this was how Brent felt last year when he had to stay behind with the 'little kids' and help search for the poltergeists instead of going through the portal.

Olly nodded his approval when Rayna said she was going to go exploring later. "There is a lot to see. I still get lost sometimes, even after having been here for five years." Had it really been that long? "If you ever need someone to show you around, let me know." He would definitely be happy to help any younger students get to know their way around the castle, prefect or not.



"That goes for you too," he added as he turned back to Zarina. He wanted to make sure his offer of showing them around the castle was extended to both of the younger girls, if either wanted to take him up on it. He was glad that she was enjoying Slytherin. "Yes, I do love our common room." Though sometimes he wished they were in a tower. That view was meant for an artist. But he could content himself with just visiting during daylight hours.



Olly just smiled at the squid. He definitely would take him up on the offer to lounge around by the lake. Olly rather enjoyed the lake and swimming and all the stuff that went along with it. The squid was asking about the tournament too, but Zarina and Skylar were handling that question well so he let them do the explaining.

Rayna nodded, "Yeah. We're in the same dorm. Sorry, I've been kinda quiet I guess. Just taking everything in." She stated. Although, may not be such a bad thing having a quiet dorm buddy. The girl glanced back to the giant squid and back again and smiled, "I am. Very much so. It's like living in an aquarium." Better than an aquarium, a magical one, really...or was that just being silly?

Oh? Rayna's eyes widened a little bit. "Thank you. I was going to say the same about your name, actually." She said, and took another drink of her hot chocolate. She'd never met someone with the name Skylar before.

Finishing off the last of her drink, Rayna beamed at Olly. What a kind offer! "Oh, thank you!" Rayna said graciously. "I'll keep that in mind. I'm sure I'll need the extra help."

“I am quite pleased to meet you Rayna. I would have extended a tentacle for you to shake but given the circumstances.’’ Bartholomew waves a few tentacles at the window. Well well well. This was quite thoughtful. “I appreciate that. I’ve found that I rather like toast with lots of butter. I’d like to invite you as well down to the lake for a swim sometime. Swimming with me is something you will enjoy.’’ Just as he had invited Oliver out.

“I’m glad to hear it.’’ Bartholomew directed his words to the other girl that had joined them last (Zae). “Is that so?’’ Bartholomew’s interested was perked. “This is exciting. I do hope a task will be taking place at the Lake. “Socialising with witches and wizards from other lands can be rather enlightening.’’

“This must be quite disappointing to you, Skylar.’’ That was her name if Bartholomew had heard correctly. “I believe you’re a fourth year. Is that correct? If you can’t participate, you’re bound to enjoy the competition still.’’

Rayna smiled again and said, "Well, perhaps we'll be able to shake hand to tentacle at the lake when I bring you some toast with butter." That was one of Rayna's favorite breakfast foods, too. She'll be sure to take a few extra helpings for Bartholomew from time to time.
As much as Rayna was enjoying this meeting with the giant squid, she unfortunately had to depart. The girl picked up her bag, "It was very nice talking to you, Bartholomew. And I will definitely take you up on that swim." As long as the weather was nice. Maybe winter would hold off a little longer this year.
"Unfortunately, I have to be heading out. I do hope you have a nice day!" Rayna secured her bag around her left shoulder and turned to the other Slytherin students as well. "I hope everyone has a nice day. It was a pleasure speaking with you all." Good to know that her house had some very welcoming individuals. For a newcomer, it was very reassuring.

With a final wave to Bartholomew and her fellow Slytherins, Rayna departed from the common room.

Aww, wasn't Rayna sweet? Skylar smiled politely at the younger girl, before turning her attention back to the squid. Yes, yes, he understood. Very disappointing indeed. "Yea, fourth year, so very frustrating, but I guess getting to mingle with the American students might not be soo bad." And if they were anything like the Westwood brothers, she definitely wasn't going to complain. Unless of course, they were different, which is why they had to leave...

Oh, Rayna had to go?

"See you later, Rayna," Sky nodded, as she waved to the younger girl. Sweet girl, she seemed.

Bartholomew liked almost every human he came in contact with and Rayna was no different. “That is something that will surely be happening Rayna. I look forward to talking more with you as well as those delightfully delicious buttered toast.’’ Bartholomew waved his tentacle again. “I hope to see you soon. Enjoy your day as well.’’

When Rayna was gone Bartholomew gazed at Skylar with wise eyes. “You will. Its always great to mingle with wizarding folks from abroad. You will all enjoy yourselves.’’

There was a little pause from old Bartholomew. “The talk of toast has made me rather hungry. Its time I go hunting. So long, Skylar, Oliver and you young Slytherin.’’ (Zae) The tentacles were put to work and Bartholomew swam off.

Zae was still staring at the awesomeness of this common room. The lake view was mesmerizing. Zae could still talk to Skylar though. "Yeahh you can say that again. I mean getting back into the swing of things and doing homework is gonna be a mood killer.." Skylar brought up an excellent point though. It was bogus that only the fifth years could enter. "I know, I mean we know magic I am sure not the extent of a fifth year though but least let us try!" Zae would be down for the try outs.

This slytherin shrugged at the Prefect. Soo did the Baron rat her out did he? Of course he did that coward. She brushed off his comment with a slight eyeroll when she turned around for him. "Yeah it is kind of like a villain's lair right? I mean with all the cool stone like structures and how it is underground..." Zae was still looking around and noticed there were books. She jumped from the couch and went to go look.

Zae heard Rayna speaking and she was flipping through the books and giving her attention. So she was the quiet one eh? Not a big deal. "No worries girl. I take everything in too. I am usually an observer by nature.." Which is why she sat in the back of the class. "What did you think about seeing all the house ghosts?" That was pretty freaky for Zae much alone a first year like Rayna. Zae wanted her opinion. This place was far from an aquarium that's for sure.

Zae smirked when she heard Bartholomew talking to them. "I am sure you had an awesome day swimming with your friends." She meant the fishes obviously. Oh right he didn't hear about that information yet. "Yeah it will kind of be like the Triwizard Tournament back in the day when they had tasks in the lake. Were you alive for that when it was still around?" Curious slytherin was curious.