His reflection didn’t take long, considering that the air was charged with mixed emotions making it hard for the Healer to actually do his meditation in peace. How in the world does Jace do this thing? River opened his eyes, as any normal person would, when Paul reached the dais and took the seat next to him. “Still a bad day for you, Paul?” the man could really give himself a break now, given that everything was back to normal. “Deep breaths, Deputy Headmaster.” River grinned at the man, and turned to face the Divination Professor, “Hello there, Laurel.” And it seemed that she got her summer plans sorted out and such.

His gaze then landed on Gaston, wondering why he still looked sad. Was the man perpetually morose? “Cheer up, Gaston.” He greeted the man with an encouraging grin. Seriously, it was still a feast, and they were allowed to be a tad happy at the moment. It wasn’t as if the world was going to end tomorrow morning, right? Speaking of being happy, he ought to have asked the Charms professor to go along with him and Hirsch. Widen the man’s perspective of the great big world? Hah! River sat back on his chair again and nodded his head in agreement when the Slytherin Head of House acknowledged him. “I agree 100%, Justin. I do commend your Snakes’ bravery and determination all throughout the year.” He’d had a handful of Slytherins under his care, of which two of them stood out the most; Natalia and Carlton. “What’s next for you, though?” River scratched the side of his face, wondering what he’ll do when the time comes for him to leave Hogwarts.

River raised a brow, when the Head Girl took the chance to talk to them before the speech was even given. To be honest, he should’ve expected it given that Natalia is a rebel child. A good rebel child. The Healer simply nodded when he was personally acknowledged, giving Hirsch and Kay a glance as well, and allowed Justin and Gaston to talk first. River felt that it was impossible to make a good comeback to what Natalia said, given the fact that she came to him hanging by a thread and that they have gone through frustrating times together. There was just so much to say! Natalia was a tough nut to crack, but their combined efforts to turn her into the right path had been worth every single sleepless night he had, figuring out things for her when she wasn’t in the best state to think for herself. “You’re most welcome Head Girl Franks-Mundie, and my warmest congratulations to you for finishing Hogwarts. I am proud of you.” River tilted his head to the side, grinning from ear to ear as he took the chance to remember that moment. The Healer would’ve said more profound, heart-warming words for the graduating Slytherin, but River was confident that Natalia would be able to read between the lines. She’d been under his care for quite some time, and he hoped that he was sincerely proud of her victory.

Leon came up next, and he too got a nod of appreciation. “You’re welcome Master Kennedy, and no need to mention it, Miss Snow will be in good hands.” Of course, he’s learned a thing or two about the younger Ravenclaw because of the fair warnings Jace had given him before he started his work as the school’s healer. River let out a chuckle at the mention of Jace, “It’s safe to say that Jace would say the same for Azura. He never had a girl best friend before you see.” Jace would rather opt to do things on his own, so meeting Azura was definitely a good change. “I wish you well in your future endeavours, Master Kennedy. And stay fit.” It would really be a shame if the boy got rid of all those muscles.