It was interesting watching the kids trickle in this time. The expressions, let alone the general attitude and energy, was quite different from their first meeting. Also interesting to note how so few went to grab a snack or a drink. Did they think he was tricking them? Or was the solemness affecting their stomachs as well?



A small smile touched Sabel's lips at Burton's greeting. He gave her a nod in a return greeting. "Evening, Ms. Burton."



And then there was Rehman. The Hufflepuff got a nod. "Mr. Rehman." One eyebrow quirked up, along with the corner of his mouth. "I think the better question, is, are you?"



Sabel's attention drifted to the young Slytherin joining them. It was a bit disheartening to see her more downtrodden than usual, so there was some relief in her getting the snacks. They were really there for that reason. As a congratulations and a pick-up for those that needed it. "Ms. Lynch. Good evening."



And it seemed that the solemness was only growing. Sabel quirked an eyebrow at the usually estatic Hyland. He didn't see anything wrong with the boy's hair, so he hand to wonder just what had ruffled his robes. "Hyland."



The grass might have been weird, but it most certainly wasn't moist or even remotely cold. In fact, it felt like it had trapped the heat of a warm summer's day and was still clinging to that warmth. If anything, it was more akin to a warm blanket than anything soggy or wet.

Perhaps a bad thing for those that were taking to lying down on it?

It was a curious thing to Sabel that no one asked about the grass. Perhaps they had stopped seeing the point of asking such questions? Like the others, Bronwyn got a nod of the head in acknowledgement and greeting.



Truebridge on the other hand, got an arched eyebrow as he came in. Sabel didn't miss the little looks that were going about, and he was sure based on where some of them were directed, he could come to a relatively accurate conclusion as to their intentions.

Raising his mug to his lips, Sabel took a slow sip of his coffee as he considered the kid. Only after did he give him a nod. "Truebridge. Evening."



Ah and what was this now? A bit of energy in an otherwise solemn room? A bit of perk and spice and bite? From a dueler who had not been labelled as victorious either?

It was enough to make Sabel grin. "Evening Traulton. Glad to see you're feeling back to your old self."



And it seemed just as there was a bit of sunshine, a bit of cloud decided to roll on over it. Bellaire almost looked worse for wear than when he had been in the duel. It brought Sabel's grin back a notch. "Mr. Bellaire. Glad to see you on two feet again."



Seemed that the general mood in the room was that of displeasure, reluctance, or general upset. Even Browne wasn't totally free of the muggy cloud that hung over so many student's heads. Zeke's presence reminded him, graciously, that what the kids had seen in their first duels was likely the first time they had seen such things, whether it was friends rolling into fires, getting knocked unconscious or otherwise getting hurt. And by their own hands nonetheless.

It was a solemn point, but not the point he had hoped to make with the duels.

A slow breath, another sip of coffee and a nod to the Gryffindor.



His attention was quickly snagged by Kettleburn and her rather energetic entrance. Appreciated for sure, as was her rather loud comment in the silent room. Sabel nearly lost his composure to laughter, swallowing back the outburst to a faint chuckle as he shook his head. Well, at least some students were looking for bigger meals.



And what was this now? Not even a hullo from Shacklebolt? Merlin, perhaps he should have decorated the floor in rainbow colors instead.

The young woman got an eyebrow arch along with a curious look. What, exactly, was on her mind?



His attention was drawn away from Shacklebolt, by Atreyu's greeting. The boy got a small smile and nod of his head. "Mr. Atreyu. Good to see you."


And was that it for the moment? Well goodness knew he didn't bring them all here to wallow in their shame, disappointment or general fatigue. Setting his mug down in front of himself, Sabel rested his hands on his knees and considered each student for a moment.

"First, I would like to congratulate each and every one of you on your duels." His tone, however, echoed the solmeness that was prevalant in the room. Why? Because he wanted them to listen. "But for those of you who's names aren't highlighted on the banner, the grass is always greener on the other side, isn't it?" His gaze slipped from some of those students, and then to some of the winners. "And for those of you that did make a mark on your first duel, the grass can grow exceptionally long, exceptionally quick, can't it? Until you can barely see through it."

He'd let them puzzle out the analogy themselves. "So, here's what we are going to do. I would hope that you took the time to do this outside of the club and the duels themselves, but in the offchance that someone forgot, and to remind ourselves why we are hear, everyone on your feet. Find your partner, and exchange a good, heartfelt handshake, and congratulations if you feel so inclined. Whether you won or lost."

And no, he wasn't about to let anyone slip past the very mini activity. "Once you've done that, I'd like you to sit with your partner and each of you offer up something that went good, and something that went bad."


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OOC: Heya all! Thanks for joining. If you're just joining now, you are still more than welcome

I know that we don't know who winners/loosers are for all duels just yet, but we should by tomorrow morning. Thank you all for participating in the duels. They were amazing!