Originally Posted by Lady of the Lake

Ariadne couldn't believe her eyes. She just noticed someone she hadn't seen in ages approaching the Gryffindor table. 'Fee!' she called. Was it really her? 'Come have a seat.' Slytherins and Gryffindors should stick together, haha. 'How have you been?' And most importantly, where? Not that Ari hadn't been away for a year herself, but she didn't get any updates from her older friend either.

Hug or no hug? She was supposed to be older, but this time she made an exception. Big bear hug it was! Just like the good ol' times...




Ari knew the feeling. It was wonderful to be back, especially considering that her absence had been longer than for most students. 'Not too bad myself, thank you. Though still a bit overwhelmed after today.' Who wouldn't be? 'Did you have a good summer?' Maybe it wasn't a good question to ask, since Kurumi spent her summers going Muggle, but Ari only remembered that AFTER asking the question.

The fifteen-year-old almost didn't catch the word when Kurumi repeated amazing. Why was she shy to take credit for something she'd worked for? 'Your cookies will always taste like home for me.' The only problem was, the Prefect was graduating this year. What then? No more cookies? NOOOOO.

The younger Gryffindor hadn't read much about the Hogwarts Express, so she listened to Kurumi, who, however, was as puzzled as herself.



The younger Lioness was taking this pretty well, but Ari was still worried for her. 'Are you sure you don't need to go to the Hospital Wing for some medical care?' You could never be too careful, but on the other hand, from what Ariadne had heard, the Healer wasn't very friendly.

The fifth year nodded. She was fine with Sarah using the shorter version of her name. 'Most people do call me that. Friends, especially.' she said with a small smile.

Wow! Sarah was definitely a creative Gryffindor. The whole Hogwarts Express story made Ari giggle, but what if it was true? Nah...a train couldn't rebel against its passengers, even in the wizarding world. 'It might have something to do with the Board of Governors, but I don't think the train itself is to blame.' And that came from a person who hated trains.



Another familiar face joined the Gryffindor table. Ari waved at the girl but she seemed a bit worse for wear. 'Are you ok?' she mouthed in Arabella's direction, who was sitting a little further away from her.



And here came the other Prefect. It dawned on Ariadne that although she had seen him around the castle many times, she still didn't know him personally. That should be remedied. She nodded when the boy greeted everyone at the table and waited for him to sit down before she could introduce herself.

'Sorry to barge in like this, I just realized it was weird that we haven't met before. I'm Ariadne Marchbanks, fifth year.' I know who YOU are.



Whilst chatting happily, Ariadne glimpsed a housemate who seemed more quiet than the others. Waving to the girl, she asked: 'How are you doing? Did you land in Hogsmeade unscathed?' It had been the first time for Ari to travel via Portkey, but she had arrived safe and sound on the platform in Hogsmeade.



Ha! She had known it all along. There was no other House besides Gryffindor where this boy truly belonged. Ariadne clapped loudly when Dylan joined the table. 'Congratulations and welcome to Gryffindor! How was the boat journey?' she asked.