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Suziella · 05-11-2017, 05:02 AM

SPOILER!!: Y'all!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zellanna

Kyle watched as the phoenix flew around then landed next to another student. Lucky, he thought. He raised his hand. "Phoenixes are generally haggard and have lost most of their feathers by burning day. On burning day, they burst into flames and burn into a pile of ashes, if I'm remembering correctly. And then a small baby phoenix winds up coming out of the ashes." He thought about it, but wasn't entirely sure on his answers.

Kyle gave the Ravenclaw some thought. What was the definition of immortality? And what was death? "That kinda sparks the question for me... Do they have partial immortality, then? Because it's true that an immortal being never dies, but a phoenix does on a regular basis. But they have the memories and soul of who they are, don't they? So that part about them is undying."

"You are correct, and that is a very intriguing view point. Let's see what other people think." Tristan said with a smile.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Saz Hale

Kimi thought long and hard about the professor's question and raised his hand and said "Phoenix's on a burning day look old and have lost their feathers look haggered and have lost the brilliant shining colours that they usually have"

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lady of Light

Right. Questions. She chewed her lip in thought for a few moments, trying to formulate an answer before raising a hand. "Professor.. as the bird approaches the burning day, their feathers start to fall out? They become more weak, I think? And on the day, like people mentioned earlier, they burst into flames.. only to rise from the ashes. And professor, I don't think they are immortal.. they just live for a very long time." Etta answered, still frowning in thought.

Listening to Kimi and Etta's answers he responded, "You are both correct, and Etta if they aren't immortal...what is their life span?" An intriguing question that no one could answer for certain.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Erindipity

"I think there is evidence to support the idea of Phoenixes being immortal, sir. They die and are immediately reborn over and over again." She put her hand down after speaking and smoothed her curls a bit. "Has there ever been a report of a phoenix dying? " she asked as she filtered though information in her brain... she couldn't recall an account in anything she had ever read. Perhaps Professor Hot Stuff could enlighten her.

"But do they HAVE to die? They're magical beings of immense power and mystery. Who are we to say that they have to adhere to what we think is the norm? " She said as she looked to Katy Toussaint. Not meaning to single her out, but something about the finality of her opening statement had roused the Gryffindor from her watching the Professor... errr... the BEAUTIFUL MAJESTIC BIRD!

Tristan listened to Dora, "If there has it has been long lost." He listened to other students responses when Dora spoke again. "A very good argument, Dora. Keep pondering that stance." He smiled moved on to the next student. Dora would definitely be getting an extra point for that thought.

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie

"Profes-s-sor...you reckon Ash would let me touch his tail feathers-s?" Please? Pretty please? With a cherry on top? He could even attempt to enlarge the cherry with magic!

Tristan smiled at Derfael, "You may have a chance later. Just let us get through this part." He said with a wink.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaniDiNardo

The immortality question she would take a whack at. "I think I agree with Etta, Professor. Rising from the ashes is likely another bodily function. After a while those tend to come to a stop naturally. I suspect one day it'll burn and just never rise again." Like sometimes the very old went to sleep and just didn't wake up again.

Tristan was really uncomfortable with the way Jessa was looking at Ash but he quickly let it go. "That is very possible, Jessa." He gave her a small smile. She was a very intelligent young woman.

Quote:

Originally Posted by RandomRaven

Ava listened to the Professor's explanation about phoenix. She had her hand raised as he asked another question. "Well... I think when the burning day is coming, the phoenix might look like it has been sick?" It's worth a guess, she thought. "And I do think that phoenix is immortal due to its re-birthing ability."

"Correct, Ava, and it is very possible!" Tristan said with a nod and a smile.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChanceCoeur

"Its the end and the beginning per say. Ending of a life but being reborn through the flames. The phoenixes burst into flame and out of the ashes, are reborn." Had others said that? She hadn't heard.. she was a little distracted.

"Very philosophical and symbolic answer. Very good, Noelle." He said with a smile.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charely Potter

Well, Kirk could see everyone already knew what the Burning Day was, he didn't feel like sitting back quietly though. "I would say a burning day is guessing day on when they're meant to die and burn before being reborn. I think it has to be it's a natural cause instead of an accident for it to be one." Another question though..

As for their immortality? Kirk couldn't help but stare at those who assumed they were. Sure, Phoenixes never stopped coming back, but that was the keyword. At least a few did see it otherwise, "I have to agree with the others Professor on Phoenixes not being immortal, they just have infinite lives. To be immortal you wouldn't be able to die or get in a state of dying. Phoenixes do end up dying when they burst into flames and they are reborn right after as a sort of restart on their new life." That was how he saw it.

"Very good Kirk, a natural burning day would be when the bird is meant to or ready to die. As for your thoughts...very intriguing." He said with a nod.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow

"Professsor? I know it's said that a phoenix is, if I recall correctly, one of the only naturally immortal creatures. But if that's the case, why a death day in the first place? And why do they grow old and worn? It seems to me, that like others have said, eventually the phoenix wouldn't be able to be born again. Like, well, the process obviously takes a toll on the creature as seen in the way it looks right before it's death day. Do their cycles get shorter each time around, do you know? Has there been a study on it?" Because maybe one day far, far into the future, the time between cycles is just so short that they aren't able to be reborn any longer. Maybe.

"That is a very, very interesting question. There have been many studies...but we humans don't live long enough to complete them. So there are many possibilities." Junia would be receiving an extra point as well!

Quote:

Originally Posted by littledhampir

"Well Phoenixes can die, can't they? I mean, if someone were to cut off their head or something?" As morbid and terrible as that sounded, he was trying to understand things. "It is possible for them to die, right? But when they do, what form do they take? Do they become ash?"

"They would immediately turn to ash and be reborn, if that were to happen." He had read in some past studies...very terrible things were done in some of past studies which he did not condone what so ever.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buggy-Boo

"They look awful on a burning day. She was trying to remember what she had seen in books. "Their feather are molting and they don't look pretty at all." Okay maybe that was a little to harsh for the bird, it wasn't their fault after all that they burned. "I think they can live a long time, but no I'm not sure they are immortal." Sully added about the last question. "Professor ... can a phoenix chose to not be reborn?"

"Very good, Sully." He said with a smile as she posed a very interesting question. "That, I don't know...mostly because we can't know what a Phoenix is thinking...but who's to say it isn't possible." Very good question indeed!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Watson

She paused her notetaking when the Professor posed a few questions to the class. Hmm... "Well the phoenix becomes a newborn. Maybe it resemble a small plucked turkey?" she offered, hoping not to offend the phoenix there. Sorry friend.

"It does become a newborn...and before it burns they definitely look like a plucked turkey." He grinned.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Awarlesta Black

Teddy remembers seeing a picture of a reborn phoenix in her old textbook back at home, a naked, little, soot-covered baby creature happy to live again. "Excuse me, professor." She started, moving to face him. "I think the immortality question is a trick question." She looked over at Ash and then back to the professor. "In Hinduism, the soul is reincarnated into a new body after death, and the soul itself is considered immortal. However, the phoenix isn't moving into a new body, its body in full is consumed in fire and then reborn from those same ashes." She paused to catch up on her thoughts. "So, can you tell me if its the same soul that rises from those ashes?"

"It very well could be a trick question." He grinned, "And I can tell you from experience of watching Ash, he is the very same soul he was before his burning day." Hinduism...an idea popped into his brain that he would definitely have to delve into later. Teddy would be getting an extra point as well.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Govoni

"It sounds exhausting, to be honest... Running the cycle of life, constantly living and dying. It's....almost cruel, in my opinion." It was a casual comment, of course... Not her actual answer. Nonetheless, it was true. It did sound terribly cruel. "...Anyway, I suppose the phoenix would reflect any animal during the stages of life. For example, a newborn phoenix would be hairless and small; a baby...and when it was near death, elderly, it'd he molted and greatly diminished." She paused, regarding the actual phoenix that was currently resting beside Mel....

As for its immortality... "I'm not sure, because... I put this to you, if it is reborn after every cycle, wouldn't all it's parts be...new?, as well? So, those things wouldn't deteriorate over a long period of time."

"Ah, but it isn't constant. The years between a burn day can vary. It could take a couple years, to any number of years." Tristan nodded listening to Olivia's ideas. "Very true indeed, and yes every bit of them is brand new...except their personalities are exactly the same. Think on that." He gave her a wink and moved to the next student.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Felixir

... Wait, hold on. What were they talking about? Something Abey didn't know anything about, basically actually. So, well, obviously he wasn't going to pretend like he had an answer. No, instead, he kept his eyes on Ash, the beautiful beautiful BEAUTIFUL BIRD OH MERLIN LOOK AT ALL THOSE COLOURS, and willed it to come over and say hello to him.

Already he was formulating a plan. A plan to go back to his dormitory to get his paints, and recreate exactly what he was seeing when he looked at the phoenix, because he knew he knew he KNEW he didn't have the words to describe it.

Tristan gave Abey a small smile, watching as the wheels turned in his head. He wondered what the young man was thinking about so hard, hoping it was the subject at hand.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Expecto-Penguin

Zae had a hunch and began to raise her hand, "Well on a burning day I assume the phoenix looks sickly and begins to wilt and just burst into flame and turn into ash in their little perch if they have one." As for the immortal question that was a good one. Zae had no idea. They could be immortal if they always reborn from the ashes but is it the same phoenix that the person had? Like personality wise and such? Such questions Zae wouldn't say out loud.

"Yes, very good, Zarina!" He said with a smile.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Schroyers

"After a phoenix burns it's reborn.. so it's like a baby at that point i would imagine." He hadn't done too much research into the flaming birds himself and really only knew what he'd read in passing. "I would think they are immortal, just that immortal doesn't also mean invincible. So the Phoenix could die just not from natural causes like old age?" Like a Tolkien Elf.

"I do have a question, Professor. Phoenixes live where there is very little oxygen on mountaintops. But does that ever effect their burning? Say if one flew too high would it not be able to burn?" He was merely curious and understood if something like this had never happened or had never been recorded. But he still wanted to know.

"Very good, Oliver. And yes Phoenixes have been directly hit with killing curses, but are still reborn. Think on that." He paused to listen to Olivers questions. This young man was so curious, he enjoyed that. "Well, generally they aren't flying when they burn," he paused with a grin, "but because they are immensely magical creatures, oxygen levels make no difference." He smiled, and was sure that was going to lead to more questions from the young man.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhoenixRising

"Immortal, by definition, is the ability to live forever. In theory, Phoenixes have these abilities, because even though they're 'dying', they are not really dying, nor is their regeneration as a baby phoenix the same as resurrection. While Phoenixes are dying and being born again, they still uniquely have the same identity. Your Phoenix, Ash, is still Ash and will always be Ash as long as he is yours. However, if Phoenixes were mortal and truly died, they would take on a new personality and identity, even though they were Ash in a past life, they would not be the same Ash when they are reborn." Okay, that sounded much less complicated in her head.

Tristan listened and nodded his head slowly, "Yes, I understand what you are saying, and you are correct. Ash, is the same Ash as he was when I got him, and will continue to be every time he is reborn." Skaylar was exactly right, and he added her to the list of extra pointers.

Quote:

Originally Posted by NifflerFan

She had thought that Ash was just a random creature in the barn, so she was beyond impressed to learn that he was actually Professor Wayland's pet. "How did you win Ash's loyalty like that, Professor?" He was a grown up and a Creatures Professor and all, but weren't phoenixes really picky?

Thinking about the immortality question, she looked back at Ash and asked: "But, like she [Skylar] said..isn't Ash still Ash when he's reborn? If he was a totally new bird like, in mind and soul, wouldn't you have to win his loyalty back every time? Does he not remember stuff from before his burning day?" Because she thought that was very important.

"As I said, that story will have to be for another day. It is very long." He gave Emmeline a wink. "Very good question. He is exactly the same bird, and I did not have to win his loyalty back because he does keep his memories." That was something for everyone to ponder.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yourenodaisy

It seemed like it would be important for them to know. "But weren't there only like a couple of domesticated phoenixes last century? So you having one is well, improbable." Great, now she sounded even more like her sister.

At the questions posed the the class, the brunette thought for a minute before thinking it over. "Don't uh, they look like a plucked chicken at some point? And much more like an Augurey I'd guess." Like the same sort of sad and pathetic look. And uh, yeah, that last question? it was above her pay grade, although it was something she was wondering.

Tristan sighed a little, "Improbable, yes...but not impossible. It is extremely difficult because Phoenixes are very independent, but it is not impossible." That would be all he would say on the subject for now. He nodded, "Yes that is correct, Samantha." He smiled.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"They have to die eventually. I mean really die, not just poof and re-hatch. Right," Katy burst out, and a moment later, she remembered to raise her hand. Yes, right, hand up and all that. She was driven to distraction by not understanding something, and that had her forgetting manners. She blinked before waving her hand around again. And continuing.

"I mean, sir, that Dark Creatures have an unnatural life span. It's one of the ways to identify them. So, that suggests to me that they must be truly born and truly die, at some point in their long life span. Unless the time between burning days counts as a life span." But that was so confusing.

"Ah, you see why it is so confusing and hard to determine? We don't know for sure because no one has ever seen a Phoenix at birth or at a true death." This was a very interesting discussion topic. He loved hearing everyone's view points.

Quote:

Originally Posted by HaRoHeGiNeLu

Lucy raised her hand. "They're supposed to look really old and ill on Burning Day, right?" she asked, "And then...they burst into flames and then they're a baby..or..chick? buried under the ashes." Right? That was what all the books said, right? Was he looking for something else? Something more? She nervously glanced at her classmates.

"I don't think that's to say they're immortal. They live multiple lives, but they're just as susceptible to being killed...or other outside, unnatural causes of death." More nervous glancing.

"Yes, that is correct." Tristan said nodding, then listened to Lucy's opinion. "They are susceptible...but they still burn and are reborn from the ashes." He gave her a smile, leaving her to think on that.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Holmesian Feline

[COLOR="Orange"“Well I suppose they’d look much like any other creature near their death…sickly and tired.” Maybe a few less feathers. “Then they go up in flames, turn to ash, and become little chick versions of their former selves.”
[/COLOR]

"Yes! That is correct!" Tristan said with a smile.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Optimist.Prime

Melbourne’s eyes tracked Ash as he took flight the way his feathers glinted as he circled was beautiful…majestic – oh merlin he was getting really close she could almost reach out and touch him…and then it happened.

Ash was next to her – sitting NEXT to her…blinking she grinned at the Phoenix and smiled at him. ”Hi there,” she whispered over to the beautiful creature, raising her hand and looking over to Ash with the other she asked ”Professor may I possibly pet him?” she asked as after all, Ash did choose Professor Wayland to be his human….still she reached her hand out instinctively as if offering it for Ash to inspect, and well…see if she was worthy of touching his fine feathers.

Raising her hand again Mel grinned ”Professor do the Phoenixes look more frail – almost tired like they are about to molt on burning day?” she asked as she was well excited….and might have been a little eager to see what Ash could look like…really, she could feel his warmth already it was magnificent.

MEL HAD A PHOENIX FRIEND…okay, so maybe friend was over stepping but it was really amazing to be sitting next to a majestic creature.

Tristan chuckled at how excited Melbourne was to have Ash next to her. "I am sure he wouldn't mind if you did." He grinned, watching as Ash rubbed his neck on Melbourne's outstretched fingers, cooing a soft melody. He was sure that would be the most exciting thing of her day. "That they do, Melbourne." He said with a grin, slightly shaking his head. His Ash was a ladies man.

Allowing Ash a few more seconds of rubbing time, he whistle the first tune again, causing Ash to perk up and look for him. The majestic bird quickly took to the skies, slowly drifting upon the wind, allowing all his feathers to be seen like a proud Peacock. He shook his head chuckling as the bird fluttered over to him and landed on his shoulder. He gave Ash another treat before speaking to the class.

"Now, and this is my opinion on the immortality question, I believe these beautiful creatures have Immortal souls, and the magical ability to regenerate their failing bodies. Many studies have been started, but never finished about these birds because they are able to regenerate. Also, once their owners die, as I said before, most Phoenixes go off on their own to live an independent live because they are so loyal to that one owner. So I feel, yes they have a starting birth...but they never truly die." He paused to let the students think about that for a moment before saying, "All of your opinions could be correct, but we may never truly know for sure." He grinned.

"Now it is time for an activity. Each of you are going to be given six different images of six very different looking Phoenixes. What you must do is, look at those images and determine the correct phase of life they are in, and then write down on a piece of parchment the numbers of the pictures on the back in age order from youngest to oldest." He hoped that made sense..., "So when you write it down, just write down the number of the pictures. Picture one, picture 4, etc. Does everyone understand?" He sure hoped so. "Alright...you may work with a partner if you would like, and be sure to turn in your parchment when you are done." With a flick of his wand each student was given 6 different wizarding pictures.

The picture with the number 1 on the back had an image of a Phoenix that's plumage is very dull, has lost part of its tail feathers and a lot of its body feathers, and has dull black eyes. Occasionally, it looks as if it's gagging. Picture 2 was a picture of Ash in his current state, not completely at his peak of beauty but almost there. Picture 3 was of another Phoenix who's plumage is slightly dull and is losing feathers but not too many to be noticeable. It rarely makes a gagging motion. Picture 4 was of another Phoenix who was at it's Peak of beauty and a bit larger than Ash. Picture 5 was of a Phoenix that had no feathers whatsoever, very dull eyes, and was constantly gagging. Picture 6 was of a Phoenix chick that had just been reborn from the ashes; Still covered in soot, without many feathers at all, but super cute.

"If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. You may begin!" Tristan wandered about watching the students progress.

OOC: Alright guys! Thank you so much for your interesting and insightful answers! We really enjoyed reading all of them! And most importantly thank you for baring with me in my first lesson! If you have any questions please feel free to ask us

So this is your Mini Activity. As plainly stated, write down the correct order of the pictures from youngest to oldest. You may partner up, just make sure both names are on the parchment! Let them make mistakes and argue about order! Use as many posts as you want and most importantly, have fun!

I will move on to the main activity in roughly 30 hours.

05-11-2017, 05:02 AM	#115 (permalink)
Suziella Gladrags Mod Acromantula Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: ❤ Posts: 30,849 Hogwarts RPG Name: Bramble "Bram" Wyatt Lennox Graduated	ThunderPUFF \| Whoodley \| MRD&LKD \| Graphics Queen \| Tristalen \| Mrs. A \| Hunny Bun SPOILER!!: Y'all! Quote: Originally Posted by Zellanna Kyle watched as the phoenix flew around then landed next to another student. Lucky, he thought. He raised his hand. "Phoenixes are generally haggard and have lost most of their feathers by burning day. On burning day, they burst into flames and burn into a pile of ashes, if I'm remembering correctly. And then a small baby phoenix winds up coming out of the ashes." He thought about it, but wasn't entirely sure on his answers. Kyle gave the Ravenclaw some thought. What was the definition of immortality? And what was death? "That kinda sparks the question for me... Do they have partial immortality, then? Because it's true that an immortal being never dies, but a phoenix does on a regular basis. But they have the memories and soul of who they are, don't they? So that part about them is undying." "You are correct, and that is a very intriguing view point. Let's see what other people think." Tristan said with a smile. Quote: Originally Posted by Saz Hale Kimi thought long and hard about the professor's question and raised his hand and said "Phoenix's on a burning day look old and have lost their feathers look haggered and have lost the brilliant shining colours that they usually have" Quote: Originally Posted by Lady of Light Right. Questions. She chewed her lip in thought for a few moments, trying to formulate an answer before raising a hand. "Professor.. as the bird approaches the burning day, their feathers start to fall out? They become more weak, I think? And on the day, like people mentioned earlier, they burst into flames.. only to rise from the ashes. And professor, I don't think they are immortal.. they just live for a very long time." Etta answered, still frowning in thought. Listening to Kimi and Etta's answers he responded, "You are both correct, and Etta if they aren't immortal...what is their life span?" An intriguing question that no one could answer for certain. Quote: Originally Posted by Erindipity "I think there is evidence to support the idea of Phoenixes being immortal, sir. They die and are immediately reborn over and over again." She put her hand down after speaking and smoothed her curls a bit. "Has there ever been a report of a phoenix dying? " she asked as she filtered though information in her brain... she couldn't recall an account in anything she had ever read. Perhaps Professor Hot Stuff could enlighten her. "But do they HAVE to die? They're magical beings of immense power and mystery. Who are we to say that they have to adhere to what we think is the norm? " She said as she looked to Katy Toussaint. Not meaning to single her out, but something about the finality of her opening statement had roused the Gryffindor from her watching the Professor... errr... the BEAUTIFUL MAJESTIC BIRD! Tristan listened to Dora, "If there has it has been long lost." He listened to other students responses when Dora spoke again. "A very good argument, Dora. Keep pondering that stance." He smiled moved on to the next student. Dora would definitely be getting an extra point for that thought. Quote: Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie "Profes-s-sor...you reckon Ash would let me touch his tail feathers-s?" Please? Pretty please? With a cherry on top? He could even attempt to enlarge the cherry with magic! Tristan smiled at Derfael, "You may have a chance later. Just let us get through this part." He said with a wink. Quote: Originally Posted by DaniDiNardo The immortality question she would take a whack at. "I think I agree with Etta, Professor. Rising from the ashes is likely another bodily function. After a while those tend to come to a stop naturally. I suspect one day it'll burn and just never rise again." Like sometimes the very old went to sleep and just didn't wake up again. Tristan was really uncomfortable with the way Jessa was looking at Ash but he quickly let it go. "That is very possible, Jessa." He gave her a small smile. She was a very intelligent young woman. Quote: Originally Posted by RandomRaven Ava listened to the Professor's explanation about phoenix. She had her hand raised as he asked another question. "Well... I think when the burning day is coming, the phoenix might look like it has been sick?" It's worth a guess, she thought. "And I do think that phoenix is immortal due to its re-birthing ability." "Correct, Ava, and it is very possible!" Tristan said with a nod and a smile. Quote: Originally Posted by ChanceCoeur "Its the end and the beginning per say. Ending of a life but being reborn through the flames. The phoenixes burst into flame and out of the ashes, are reborn." Had others said that? She hadn't heard.. she was a little distracted. "Very philosophical and symbolic answer. Very good, Noelle." He said with a smile. Quote: Originally Posted by Charely Potter Well, Kirk could see everyone already knew what the Burning Day was, he didn't feel like sitting back quietly though. "I would say a burning day is guessing day on when they're meant to die and burn before being reborn. I think it has to be it's a natural cause instead of an accident for it to be one." Another question though.. As for their immortality? Kirk couldn't help but stare at those who assumed they were. Sure, Phoenixes never stopped coming back, but that was the keyword. At least a few did see it otherwise, "I have to agree with the others Professor on Phoenixes not being immortal, they just have infinite lives. To be immortal you wouldn't be able to die or get in a state of dying. Phoenixes do end up dying when they burst into flames and they are reborn right after as a sort of restart on their new life." That was how he saw it. "Very good Kirk, a natural burning day would be when the bird is meant to or ready to die. As for your thoughts...very intriguing." He said with a nod. Quote: Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow "Professsor? I know it's said that a phoenix is, if I recall correctly, one of the only naturally immortal creatures. But if that's the case, why a death day in the first place? And why do they grow old and worn? It seems to me, that like others have said, eventually the phoenix wouldn't be able to be born again. Like, well, the process obviously takes a toll on the creature as seen in the way it looks right before it's death day. Do their cycles get shorter each time around, do you know? Has there been a study on it?" Because maybe one day far, far into the future, the time between cycles is just so short that they aren't able to be reborn any longer. Maybe. "That is a very, very interesting question. There have been many studies...but we humans don't live long enough to complete them. So there are many possibilities." Junia would be receiving an extra point as well! Quote: Originally Posted by littledhampir *"Well Phoenixes can* die, can't they? I mean, if someone were to cut off their head or something?" As morbid and terrible as that sounded, he was trying to understand things. "It is possible for them to die, right? But when they do, what form do they take? Do they become ash?" "They would immediately turn to ash and be reborn, if that were to happen." He had read in some past studies...very terrible things were done in some of past studies which he did not condone what so ever. Quote: Originally Posted by Buggy-Boo "They look awful on a burning day. She was trying to remember what she had seen in books. "Their feather are molting and they don't look pretty at all." Okay maybe that was a little to harsh for the bird, it wasn't their fault after all that they burned. "I think they can live a long time, but no I'm not sure they are immortal." Sully added about the last question. "Professor ... can a phoenix chose to not be reborn?" "Very good, Sully." He said with a smile as she posed a very interesting question. "That, I don't know...mostly because we can't know what a Phoenix is thinking...but who's to say it isn't possible." Very good question indeed! Quote: Originally Posted by Watson She paused her notetaking when the Professor posed a few questions to the class. Hmm... "Well the phoenix becomes a newborn. Maybe it resemble a small plucked turkey?" she offered, hoping not to offend the phoenix there. Sorry friend. "It does become a newborn...and before it burns they definitely look like a plucked turkey." He grinned. Quote: Originally Posted by Awarlesta Black Teddy remembers seeing a picture of a reborn phoenix in her old textbook back at home, a naked, little, soot-covered baby creature happy to live again. "Excuse me, professor." She started, moving to face him. "I think the immortality question is a trick question." She looked over at Ash and then back to the professor. "In Hinduism, the soul is reincarnated into a new body after death, and the soul itself is considered immortal. However, the phoenix isn't moving into a new body, its body in full is consumed in fire and then reborn from those same ashes." She paused to catch up on her thoughts. "So, can you tell me if its the same soul that rises from those ashes?" "It very well could be a trick question." He grinned, "And I can tell you from experience of watching Ash, he is the very same soul he was before his burning day." Hinduism...an idea popped into his brain that he would definitely have to delve into later. Teddy would be getting an extra point as well. Quote: Originally Posted by Govoni "It sounds exhausting, to be honest... Running the cycle of life, constantly living and dying. It's....almost cruel, in my opinion." It was a casual comment, of course... Not her actual answer. Nonetheless, it was true. It did sound terribly cruel. "...Anyway, I suppose the phoenix would reflect any animal during the stages of life. For example, a newborn phoenix would be hairless and small; a baby...and when it was near death, elderly, it'd he molted and greatly diminished." She paused, regarding the actual phoenix that was currently resting beside Mel.... As for its immortality... "I'm not sure, because... I put this to you, if it is reborn after every cycle, wouldn't all it's parts be...new?, as well? So, those things wouldn't deteriorate over a long period of time." "Ah, but it isn't constant. The years between a burn day can vary. It could take a couple years, to any number of years." Tristan nodded listening to Olivia's ideas. "Very true indeed, and yes every bit of them is brand new...except their personalities are exactly the same. Think on that." He gave her a wink and moved to the next student. Quote: Originally Posted by Felixir ... Wait, hold on. What were they talking about? Something Abey didn't know anything about, basically actually. So, well, obviously he wasn't going to pretend like he had an answer. No, instead, he kept his eyes on Ash, the beautiful beautiful BEAUTIFUL BIRD OH MERLIN LOOK AT ALL THOSE COLOURS, and willed it to come over and say hello to him. Already he was formulating a plan. A plan to go back to his dormitory to get his paints, and recreate exactly what he was seeing when he looked at the phoenix, because he knew he knew he KNEW he didn't have the words to describe it. Tristan gave Abey a small smile, watching as the wheels turned in his head. He wondered what the young man was thinking about so hard, hoping it was the subject at hand. Quote: Originally Posted by Expecto-Penguin Zae had a hunch and began to raise her hand, "Well on a burning day I assume the phoenix looks sickly and begins to wilt and just burst into flame and turn into ash in their little perch if they have one." As for the immortal question that was a good one. Zae had no idea. They could be immortal if they always reborn from the ashes but is it the same phoenix that the person had? Like personality wise and such? Such questions Zae wouldn't say out loud. "Yes, very good, Zarina!" He said with a smile. Quote: Originally Posted by Schroyers "After a phoenix burns it's reborn.. so it's like a baby at that point i would imagine.*" He hadn't done too* much research into the flaming birds himself and really only knew what he'd read in passing. "I would think they are immortal, just that immortal doesn't also mean invincible. So the Phoenix could die just not from natural causes like old age?" Like a Tolkien Elf. "I do have a question, Professor. Phoenixes live where there is very little oxygen on mountaintops. But does that ever effect their burning? Say if one flew too high would it not be able to burn?" He was merely curious and understood if something like this had never happened or had never been recorded. But he still wanted to know. "Very good, Oliver. And yes Phoenixes have been directly hit with killing curses, but are still reborn. Think on that." He paused to listen to Olivers questions. This young man was so curious, he enjoyed that. "Well, generally they aren't flying when they burn," he paused with a grin, "but because they are immensely magical creatures, oxygen levels make no difference." He smiled, and was sure that was going to lead to more questions from the young man. Quote: Originally Posted by PhoenixRising "Immortal, by definition, is the ability to live forever. In theory, Phoenixes have these abilities, because even though they're 'dying', they are not really dying, nor is their regeneration as a baby phoenix the same as resurrection. While Phoenixes are dying and being born again, they still uniquely have the same identity. Your Phoenix, Ash, is still Ash and will always be Ash as long as he is yours. However, if Phoenixes were mortal and truly died, they would take on a new personality and identity, even though they were Ash in a past life, they would not be the same Ash when they are reborn." Okay, that sounded much less complicated in her head. Tristan listened and nodded his head slowly, "Yes, I understand what you are saying, and you are correct. Ash, is the same Ash as he was when I got him, and will continue to be every time he is reborn." Skaylar was exactly right, and he added her to the list of extra pointers. Quote: Originally Posted by NifflerFan She had thought that Ash was just a random creature in the barn, so she was beyond impressed to learn that he was actually Professor Wayland's pet. "How did you win Ash's loyalty like that, Professor?" He was a grown up and a Creatures Professor and all, but weren't phoenixes really picky? Thinking about the immortality question, she looked back at Ash and asked: "But, like she [Skylar] said..isn't Ash still Ash when he's reborn? If he was a totally new bird like, in mind and soul, wouldn't you have to win his loyalty back every time? Does he not remember stuff from before his burning day?" Because she thought that was very important. "As I said, that story will have to be for another day. It is very long." He gave Emmeline a wink. "Very good question. He is exactly the same bird, and I did not have to win his loyalty back because he does keep his memories." That was something for everyone to ponder. Quote: Originally Posted by Yourenodaisy It seemed like it would be important for them to know. "But weren't there only like a couple of domesticated phoenixes last century? So you having one is well, improbable." Great, now she sounded even more like her sister. At the questions posed the the class, the brunette thought for a minute before thinking it over. "Don't uh, they look like a plucked chicken at some point? And much more like an Augurey I'd guess." Like the same sort of sad and pathetic look. And uh, yeah, that last question? it was above her pay grade, although it was something she was wondering. Tristan sighed a little, "Improbable, yes...but not impossible. It is extremely difficult because Phoenixes are very independent, but it is not impossible." That would be all he would say on the subject for now. He nodded, "Yes that is correct, Samantha." He smiled. Quote: Originally Posted by Cassirin "They have to die eventually. I mean really die, not just poof and re-hatch. Right," Katy burst out, and a moment later, she remembered to raise her hand. Yes, right, hand up and all that. She was driven to distraction by not understanding something, and that had her forgetting manners. She blinked before waving her hand around again. And continuing. "I mean, sir, that Dark Creatures have an unnatural life span. It's one of the ways to identify them. So, that suggests to me that they must be truly born and truly die, at some point in their long life span. Unless the time between burning days counts as a life span." But that was so confusing. "Ah, you see why it is so confusing and hard to determine? We don't know for sure because no one has ever seen a Phoenix at birth or at a true death." This was a very interesting discussion topic. He loved hearing everyone's view points. Quote: Originally Posted by HaRoHeGiNeLu Lucy raised her hand. "They're supposed to look really old and ill on Burning Day, right?" she asked, "And then...they burst into flames and then they're a baby..or..chick? buried under the ashes." Right? That was what all the books said, right? Was he looking for something else? Something more? She nervously glanced at her classmates. "I don't think that's to say they're immortal. They live multiple lives, but they're just as susceptible to being killed...or other outside, unnatural causes of death." More nervous glancing. "Yes, that is correct." Tristan said nodding, then listened to Lucy's opinion. "They are susceptible...but they still burn and are reborn from the ashes." He gave her a smile, leaving her to think on that. Quote: Originally Posted by Holmesian Feline [COLOR="Orange"“Well I suppose they’d look much like any other creature near their death…sickly and tired.” Maybe a few less feathers. “Then they go up in flames, turn to ash, and become little chick versions of their former selves.” [/COLOR] "Yes! That is correct!" Tristan said with a smile. Quote: Originally Posted by Optimist.Prime Melbourne’s eyes tracked Ash as he took flight the way his feathers glinted as he circled was beautiful…majestic – oh merlin he was getting really close she could almost reach out and touch him…and then it happened. Ash was next to her – sitting NEXT to her…blinking she grinned at the Phoenix and smiled at him. ”Hi there,” she whispered over to the beautiful creature, raising her hand and looking over to Ash with the other she asked ”Professor may I possibly pet him?” she asked as after all, Ash did choose Professor Wayland to be his human….still she reached her hand out instinctively as if offering it for Ash to inspect, and well…see if she was worthy of touching his fine feathers. Raising her hand again Mel grinned ”Professor do the Phoenixes look more frail – almost tired like they are about to molt on burning day?” she asked as she was well excited….and might have been a little eager to see what Ash could look like…really, she could feel his warmth already it was magnificent. MEL HAD A PHOENIX FRIEND…okay, so maybe friend was over stepping but it was really amazing to be sitting next to a majestic creature. Tristan chuckled at how excited Melbourne was to have Ash next to her. "I am sure he wouldn't mind if you did." He grinned, watching as Ash rubbed his neck on Melbourne's outstretched fingers, cooing a soft melody. He was sure that would be the most exciting thing of her day. "That they do, Melbourne." He said with a grin, slightly shaking his head. His Ash was a ladies man. Allowing Ash a few more seconds of rubbing time, he whistle the first tune again, causing Ash to perk up and look for him. The majestic bird quickly took to the skies, slowly drifting upon the wind, allowing all his feathers to be seen like a proud Peacock. He shook his head chuckling as the bird fluttered over to him and landed on his shoulder. He gave Ash another treat before speaking to the class. "Now, and this is my opinion on the immortality question, I believe these beautiful creatures have Immortal souls, and the magical ability to regenerate their failing bodies. Many studies have been started, but never finished about these birds because they are able to regenerate. Also, once their owners die, as I said before, most Phoenixes go off on their own to live an independent live because they are so loyal to that one owner. So I feel, yes they have a starting birth...but they never truly die." He paused to let the students think about that for a moment before saying, "All of your opinions could be correct, but we may never truly know for sure." He grinned. "Now it is time for an activity. Each of you are going to be given six different images of six very different looking Phoenixes. What you must do is, look at those images and determine the correct phase of life they are in, and then write down on a piece of parchment the numbers of the pictures on the back in age order from youngest to oldest." He hoped that made sense..., "So when you write it down, just write down the number of the pictures. Picture one, picture 4, etc. Does everyone understand?" He sure hoped so. "Alright...you may work with a partner if you would like, and be sure to turn in your parchment when you are done." With a flick of his wand each student was given 6 different wizarding pictures. The picture with the number 1 on the back had an image of a Phoenix that's plumage is very dull, has lost part of its tail feathers and a lot of its body feathers, and has dull black eyes. Occasionally, it looks as if it's gagging. Picture 2 was a picture of Ash in his current state, not completely at his peak of beauty but almost there. Picture 3 was of another Phoenix who's plumage is slightly dull and is losing feathers but not too many to be noticeable. It rarely makes a gagging motion. Picture 4 was of another Phoenix who was at it's Peak of beauty and a bit larger than Ash. Picture 5 was of a Phoenix that had no feathers whatsoever, very dull eyes, and was constantly gagging. Picture 6 was of a Phoenix chick that had just been reborn from the ashes; Still covered in soot, without many feathers at all, but super cute. "If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. You may begin!" Tristan wandered about watching the students progress. OOC: Alright guys! Thank you so much for your interesting and insightful answers! We really enjoyed reading all of them! And most importantly thank you for baring with me in my first lesson! If you have any questions please feel free to ask us So this is your Mini Activity. As plainly stated, write down the correct order of the pictures from youngest to oldest. You may partner up, just make sure both names are on the parchment! Let them make mistakes and argue about order! Use as many posts as you want and most importantly, have fun! I will move on to the main activity in roughly 30 hours. __________________ ⫷ ⫷____________________________________________ I know that you're afraid to... ...let all the dark escape you._____________________________________________⫸ ⫸ Last edited by Suziella; 05-11-2017 at 05:10 AM.