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Join Date: May 2009 Location: London
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Hogwarts RPG Name:
Alexander River Hirsch
Gryffindor Third Year
Hogwarts RPG Name:
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|  urine trouble | Pat's Strong Confident Other Half | Pees Like a Champion Unicorn Racehorse
Text Cut: You guuuuys <3 Text Cut: Olivia Quote:
Originally Posted by Watson  No Inferi? Seriously Hirsch? She pouted slightly. She had been hoping for a challenge, y'know? However, the lesson began before she could say anything else and they were talking about how sometimes its important to leave a creature alone and not attack it because they would leave you alone too.
Huh interesting topic. She wondered how her classmates would react to such a question. But the whole idea of people and creatures not being clearly good or bad and the various shades of grey involved intrigued the Gryffindor to no end.
Well as much as Olivia loved pulling out her wand and attacking a creature straightaway (#Gryffindoring), she knew that would just end miserably and horribly. It seemed silly to just go up and attack said creature. "Well a reason not to attack a creature is because you could come across a creature that could easily overpower you, Professor. If you went up against and started flinging spells at a strong creature, such as a basilisk, then that would be..." Stupid, in her opinion. Don't pull a Harry Potter kids. It probably doesn't work out that way for the rest of them. Vi rephrased the word she was going to use, "That wouldn't be the smartest. Doing something like that could get yourself killed." Or worse expelled. Sometimes creatures were more focused on protecting their young than fighting off a young, brazen wizard who was just eager to prove themselves to their friends. As for a situation where you shouldn't attack a creature...."For instance, a creature could be focused on protecting its young and view you as a threat. Instead of attacking it, you should give the creature its space and be on your way."
Ah, overpowering. Hirsch nodded at this answer, slightly surprised that it was coming from a Gryffindor but glad nonetheless. "That's an excellent point, Miss Holden. Sometimes it's better to run than to start attacking a random creature, especially if it's one that's much bigger and stronger than you are. The best defence could be leaving it alone. And the Basilisk is an excellent example of this. Well done." Smile.
Text Cut: Dahlia Quote:
Originally Posted by MeredithRodneyMckay That box was still moving, and Dahlia still had her eyes fixed on it. Her ears, however, they were trained on the professor. Obviously. She was incredibly interested in what they were going to be doing, and curious as to whether any of them would get out alive, or at best need a trip to the hospital wing.
And then the question came, and she finally - for a few seconds at least - looked away and gave the man her full attention. Which was just as well she did, because it wasn't the easiest thing to answer. Biting her lip, she frowned and squinted and thought of a scenario that would fit, but she wasn't really getting anything that he might be happy with. Or that she was happy with.
"Uhh, maybe, I don't know, Sir.....maybe if it's a crowded area? If there's loads of people around, then shooting hexes at something might annoy it and cause it to lash out at those people. Whereas if you left it, then it might go away without doing that?"
That made sense, right? Well, it was an answer anyway, and the best she was going to come up with. That box had made her brain nervous.
Hirsch couldn't help but smile at this answer. "You do have an excellent grasp of the situation. That's a good case of when not to attack a creature. It's outnumbered in situations like those and would probably be more scared of you than you are of it. Throwing hexes around is bound to scare it even more and make it start attacking people randomly in an attempt to protect itself." Which is not something you'd want to do. "Very well done, Miss Marin."
Text Cut: Kei Quote:
Originally Posted by omnomnomRAWR He's been so sleepy since he rolled himself out of bed and slid into the class, and now is no different. Up until the professor begins to speak, the chatter around Kei lulls him into a light doze, kept in tune with the rattling of the box.
Then the door closes - the sharp noise is, truthfully, exactly what he needs to wake, and he shakes his head to clear it a bit.
Grey areas are his favorite things to discuss - he relates to them, he thinks - not one thing, not the other. Muddled. Confusing, maybe even confused as well. So at the question, his hand raises tentatively, thinking so as not to copy another's already-spoken answer.
"A creature may not even realize you're there, due to low lighting or poor senses. Or maybe it's just woken up," he offers, leaning forward in his seat. "It may be more scared of us than we are of them!"
Hirsch, being the kind of man he was, didn't mind the slight snoozing before the lesson started, precisely because it was before the start of the lesson. Though, it was slightly concerning to see the number of students that had turned up half-asleep. Were morning classes really that bad?
Anyways. The answer was one that earned the Slytherin an amused smile from the man. "Precisely," he said, giving him a nod of his head, "In that way, you could cause it to act more rashly than it would have done if you'd have just left it alone, thereby putting both of you in more danger. Well done!"
Text Cut: Junia Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow Junia was feeling the pressure whether it was stated or not, Professor H. After her chat with Healer Reed about focusing on healing and the marks she'd need to pursue it, her mind was focused on certain subjects, Defense being one of them. She'd be paying particular attention in this class, she would.
Vivian's arrival earned a smile and the fifth year nudged her friend gently when she sat beside her. She'd caught Sky's greeting as well, and returned the finger wiggle with one of her own. They'd all be comparing notes later, yes? It was reassuring knowing that if she missed something, one of them were bound to get it down. It gave her a little room to breathe. A little.
And then there was an Abey. Junia moved her arm around him and gave him a bit of a squeeze in greeting. Was he alright? He'd better be getting enough sleep or she'd be speaking to the boys he shared a dorm with, she would. He shouldn't be up all night jumping on beds or gossiping or snacking or whatever Gryffindor boys did at that age. Noting Professor Hirsch's look, the fifth year nodded her head. She had this. "Abey, it's time to pay attention, okay? If you're not feeling well, I could always ask to escort you to the healer or something." But if it was just the being sleepy thing, it was time to shake it off.
Sitting up a bit straighter, she considered Hirsch's question, gaze shifting to the box briefly before returning to him. "If the creatures you're mentioning don't see us as prey, that means they're focused on other things. It also means they'll most likely only harm us if they see us as a threat. If you're out walking in the woods or wherever and come across a creature minding it's own business, the best thing to do is go back the way you came. Shooting spells at it will only kick it into survival mode and then you're really in trouble. It's like picking a fight. Why do it if you can avoid it and keep the creature and yourself safe?"
Hirsch didn't know what it is that Junia had said to her cousin but he did have faith in that she'd said something helpful. So, he gave her a smile and focused, instead, on the answer she was giving to him.
The smile on his face only grew at the answer and, before he knew it, he was grinning widely. "Exactly! That is an excellent, excellent point, Junia. Thank you for bringing it up, especially the part about survival mode. It's better to find another path, or go back, than to provoke a creature and make things worse for yourself. Sometimes, the best defence is not to start the fight. Very well done." See why he expected an O?
Text Cut: Kitty Quote:
Originally Posted by Goblinfrog Kitty watched the box curiously, wondering what form of creature or animated object was struggling to get out. They'd find out soon enough, first it was question time - usually her favorite part of any lesson.
The first question was interesting. It was sort of philosophical as well as tactical, in her opinion. She raised her hand when it was her turn to speak. "If the creature doesn't seem like it's going to harm me or anyone else, then I wouldn't attack it. Attacking a creature that's minding its own business would only increase the chances of someone getting hurt, and for what? For example, trolls are dangerous. But if I was walking through a forest and I stumbled upon a troll taking a nap, I'd just tip toe around it and be on my way."
And here was another case of not attacking a creature that was just minding its own business.
Hirsch nodded along at his Head Girl, smiling slightly. "That's a very good point. Trolls are a good example here because they're one of the cases where running away from a troll is probably better than provoking it." Though, most of them did know how to defend themselves against a Troll so there was that. "You don't want to put yourself in unnecessary danger when you can avoid it in the first place. Well done!"
Text Cut: Ronan Quote:
Originally Posted by lazykitty Sooooo.......was there a creature in the box?
Anyway, the concept that Professor Hirsch was getting at wasn't something that was particularly new to Ronan. It was pretty much an accepted concept by now. Also, there were certain creatures where 'don't attack first' was pretty much a life rule. Like momma bears, for example. Or...
"It's pretty much a rule of thumb not to 'attack' or swat at a bee, lest it sting you, cause they'll usually just buzz" pun maybe intended "right by you unless they feel like they, their hive or their queen is under attack." Then they sting and right after they sting, they die. Though, Ronan wasn't really sure about that last bit. But, seeing as one usually couldn't find the bee after being stung, maybe? Either way, it was usually a good idea not to mess with bees.
Of all the examples he expected people to come up with, he didn't expect a bee to be one of them but, on second thought, it wasn't exactly a bad example. "That's an excellent point, Mr Carter, well done. A bee is a good example of why you shouldn't provoke it because sooner or later, you could find yourself in a much worse situation than you would've been in if you'd have just left it alone." Even if it was hard to do in the first place.
Pause. "Nice pun, by the way."
Text Cut: Maddie Quote:
Originally Posted by Anna Banana Okay, there was one thing for sure. Maddie was NOT going to be able to keep calm in this class. For one, the entire place looked nothing like a regular classroom. Then there were the rocks and that large box that looked like it might open itself any second now. Maddie's eyes widened as she watched it, her imagination running wild with what might be inside. She fidgeted a bit in an effort to get out some of the energy she was trying to hold in. It was impossible, though.
THIS WAS TOO EXCITING.
Then the door shut, and the lesson was beginning. People were gray? Huh? What did that mean? Maddie decided not to ask and instead just listened quietly for once. OHHHHHHHH. They were going to be talking about creatures?! BEST. CLASS. EVERRRR. It was hard for her to think about creatures attacking her. She always thought of creatures as cute and cuddly, but deep down inside, she knew that wasn't always the case. She raised her hand as a thought came to mind. "There's ERUMPENTS, Professor. I don't think they attack unless they're provoked," she pointed out. "So it kind of seems like somebody would just be out to pick a fight if they attacked one."
Erumpents? Hmm. "Erumpents are a very good example, Miss Kemp, well done." And they tied in well with the idea of not provoking a creature that's much bigger and stronger than you are. "Provoking a Erumpent is not the best way of picking a fight and you could find yourself in more danger than you'd have been if you'd have just left it alone." Good good.
"Not many people would mention them in these cases, especially since they're not seen as inherently 'dark' but I'm glad you did. Well done!"
Text Cut: Nathan Quote:
Originally Posted by Symphora Nathan thought for a moment when Hirsh asked them a question. It was common sense not to provoke the creatures fury. The more it felt threatened, the higher chance it will attack and pummels you to death. But what if the creature got injured and in need of medical care? Or simply because they wanted to protect their young? That's especially true with female grizzly bears with cubs, they were dangerous...aren't they? You don't want to be anywhere near them. Sometimes observing how the creatures react if they sensed certain dangers could be a vital sign to avoid unnecessary incidents. That was his answer in his head, all the time staying quiet.
Silent students weren't a bad thing. Not everyone had an answer for a question and not everyone wanted to contribute to the lesson. It was normal and to be expected, really, every professor knew this. Hirsch glanced at the Slytherin for a moment or two before looking away. As long as the boy was still paying attention, he didn't mind.
Text Cut: Katy Quote:
Originally Posted by Cassirin So... all that hype led Katy to wonder what exactly was IN that box? Was it really a creature? Because Hirsch was being so nonchalant about standing with his shoulder literally inches away from great teeth or claws or something. That's how handsome men lose arms.
But it was an interesting question, and Katy jotted a few notes based on her classmates' answers. She also raised her hand and tried not to make faces at the Head Girl... Katherine Toussaint was SO mature. "Professor, we don't just attack people because they're present and intimidating. We wait for tangible evidence that we're in danger, or we leave if the situation warrants. I'd think it's the same for animals, even dangerous ones. A lot of them are live and let live types, unless they feel threatened. There's no need to provoke a creature."
Tangible evidence.
Tangible evidence.
A wide grin spread across his face at this answer. "An excellent point and very wise point, Miss Toussaint. It's the idea of picking a fight when it's better to leave it alone. If you provoke the creature and attack randomly, you could scare it and make it attack you, putting you in more danger than you were in when you started off. Waiting for evidence that you're in danger or that the creature is going to attack you is probably the best way to go about defending yourself. Well done."
Text Cut: Scarlett Quote:
Originally Posted by Lissy Longbottom Why might it be wrong to start attacking creatures? That was a silly question! Scarlett's hand immediately went in the air.
"Well obviously, if a creature isn't paying you any mind, if you provoke it, then it will DEFINITELY feel threatened and will likely attack you. You have to remember that they are more scared of you than you are of them, and they are likely trying to just lay low and not draw attention to themselves either," she explained. Sure, some of them were really nasty, but if you didn't bother them, they usually didn't bother you.
It was like bees. If you didn't bother them, you probably weren't going to get stung!
This answer amused him slightly and it had everything to do with the use of the word 'obviously'. Clearly, the girl knew what she was talking about here.
"Precisely," he said, giving her a nod of his head, "They are more scared of you than you are of them. And more often than not, you're the one in their territory and they've been brought up to protect their own and their kind. To them, you're jeopardising that." And humans haven't exactly been the innocent party here but that wasn't something he was going to go into. "But that's a wise answer, well done."
Text Cut: Jessa Quote:
Originally Posted by DaniDiNardo "Hey Isa." Jessa returned the greeting, listening as best she could to the rock...until the Professor's question.
What was she doing? Oh. "I just figure, if you've got that box rattling like that, maybe you've got something hidden in the rocks too. I know you're full of surprises Professor, I'm only trying to be prepared." Constant vigilance, as her sister liked to say. The classroom was grassy, there were rattling boxes, what else could there be?
The fact the lesson was starting drew her attention from the rock that so far yielded very little in the way of results. This had her straightening once more, blue eyes back on the Professor.
It was an interesting question, one she hoped would really get those Gryffindors thinking about something other than blast first, question after--this lesson could actually save some of their lives. "I'd say if it was sleeping you should probably leave it be, kinda like our motto and the sleeping dragon. If it's unaware, it's of no threat. Wouldn't wanna go mess that up and compromise your position."
It was interesting, really, to see how to mind of a Ravenclaw worked, especially this Ravenclaw. But at her answer, he couldn't help but smile proudly. Why? Constant vigilance! This, right here, was a clear example of just that. "As proud as I am that you're being vigilant, I can assure you that there's nothing in the rocks." Maybe he should have put something in the rocks.
Sleeping was starting to become a common theme here and while he fully expected it to be brought up, he didn't expect the school motto to be brought into this. "'Never tickle a sleeping dragon'," he said, nodding his head, "Exactly. If it is sleeping, you don't want to provoke it because you might scare it and it could do a lot more damage to you than it would have if you'd have just left it alone. Well done!"
Text Cut: Ryder Quote:
Originally Posted by Roselyn Ryder "pffft" right back at Hunter, waving his hand at him before settling down on one of the decently comfy looking cushion things...which turned out to be decently comfy. At least they beat out boring chairs and desks, plus had a better impact on his bum after the slight jump from the door closing so loudly.
Should fix the door. Make it quieter.
The young Slytherin made a face at the question being asked. And even more faces at his classmate's answers. One should totally attack creature's in one's path? That's kinda what their wands were for, yea? Though he did kinda agree with the basilisk and troll ideas. For now anyways. He didn't think he could go up against those kinds of creatures yet. YET. "You shouldn't attack a creature if the after-effects will ruin your expensive clothes."
And therefore get a talking to by parental figures.
......... What?
Hirsch blinked. He was failing to understand what expensive clothes had to do with anything. Sure, it would be inconvenient to have your clothes ripped apart by a creature but it wasn't exactly a priority, was it? Maybe it was because he would rather save his skin than his clothes but the man was failing to understand the logic Mr Carter was providing.
"I guess...." he said slowly, "That's one way of looking at it. It's better not to attack if it means saving your own skin - or your clothes. Well done, Mr Carter."
Confused? You bet.
Text Cut: Olly Quote:
Originally Posted by littledhampir Instead of getting out his own cushion, Olly was sharing Noelle's. She didn't mind, did she? Of course she wouldn't. He was also eyeing that box, which was very distracting. There was definitely something in it. It was moving. How did Hirsch expect him to be able to concentrate on the lesson when there was something moving in a box in the middle of the room? It was really hard. But Olly was trying his best. This was his NEWT year and all so he wanted to do well this year. He tried to pay attention to the question so he could at least attempt an answer.
"If an animal wasn't going to attack you, there would be no reason to attack it. It would be rude. And could be kind of dangerous. It's like...a bee. If it's just buzzing around you it's probably not just going to randomly decide to sting you, but if you start swatting at it it's going to get mad and then it will sting you." So a bee wasn't a magical creature, but it got his point across didn't it?
Rude was another word he was glad was being brought up. "You've raised some excellent points and, in fact, you're very close to the subject of this lesson." Maybe the closest. "A bee is an excellent example of this. Not every situation requires an attack and sometimes, an attack is exactly what'll get you in even more danger. Very well done, Mr Borzekowski-Thomas." Smile.
"And thank you for mentioning the part about it being rude." He'll see why later.
Text Cut: Eddie Quote:
Originally Posted by Bazinga His favorite class, though no one could teach the art and wonders of dark arts in this school the way his Uncle could. Eddie had to be here,
so he just hoped it wouldn't be fully lame as always. Sitting towards the back he listened as everyone spoke around him and then looked up as the professor began the lesson. When he asked his first questions Eddie just raised a brow a bit, but then smoothed it out and looked as if he was merely bored. His thoughts though were more on why anyone would ask such a question. Why would there be a bad time to attack an animal. If you needed to experiment and try out spells, potions, or whatever anytime was a perfect time.
As other's began to answer he did have to agree with one, a crowd, yes, that would be the one time not to attack an animal. Too many witnesses, too many could point the finger towards you and the attack wouldn't go unnoticed. So that person was the only one correct.
"You don't want to attack if they see it coming. You always want to catch your victim off guard when attacking, so if the creature is looking right at you and can sense you are about to attack it can prepare." His voice was low and he remained slouched in his chair, but he at least gave an answer.
............ What?
Hirsch was confused. Again. He understood where the boy was coming from, yes, but he couldn't help but wonder whether the boy had understood the question or not. He was looking for something along the lines of putting yourself in more danger by attacking a creature and not riling it up in the first place but this did get him thinking.
"That's a good point as well, and explains why non-verbal spells give you an advantage over verbal spells." If they were comparing. "It's not exactly what I was looking for but you've raised a good point about not attacking if the creature knows you're about to do it. It might anger them even more." Even if attacking someone when their back was turned was a very cowardly thing to do.
Text Cut: Zoryn Quote:
Originally Posted by ArianaBlack No dragons!??! AW maaaaaaaaaan. Zoryn was SO sure this time. SO sure.
Well, she was sure EVERY TIME. But especially this time considering that the grass was kind of like being outdoors and dragons lived in the outdoors. It was a stretch, but if there were ever a time, shouldn’t it be this time? Zoryn thought so, but she tried not to look SO defeated when she went to sit down. Sigh. Especially because Beau probably felt defeated too and Zor was gonna set a super good example for him. #Gryffindors, y’know?
Anyways, what was the question?
“Probably shouldn't attack them if they've got a family around,” she nodded. "Cause then their family might get mad at you and you'll have a whole other problem to deal with," very science. "OR you might DESTROY their FAMILY and then what else have they got to LIVE FOR?????"
omg.
And now she was thinking about a poor lil creature without a family to love and care for it.
This was a very sad thought. Dragons weren't a sad thought. WHEN WERE THEY GONNA LEARN ABOUT DRAGONS?
... #priorities.
............ Oh.
Oh Zoryn. Thanks for the heartache.
"That is a very sad thought, Zoryn," He was not prepared for this. "But you're very right: a creature surrounded by its family is not a good idea. In most cases, if not all, the parental creatures are only being territorial and want to protect their young." Just like he would do for any of them. "So attacking them is only going to provoke them. This would be their form of self-defence and you can't blame them for acting out, really."
This was still sad. "You are very, very close to the topic of today's lesson. Well done!"
Text Cut: Etta Quote:
Originally Posted by Lady of Light Etta found what the professor said very interesting. It was the intention.. yeah, that made sense. She was lost in her own little world for a while, giving the discussion some thought.. but before soon he was already asking a question. Uh. She waited for a few of her classmates to answer before raising a hand.
"Well, there are creatures that are more scared of you than you are of them so.. what's the point in just throwing a spell when all they want to do is to leave you alone? Attacking them would only make them more defensive so it's better to just go your own way." She answered before taking notes, still wondering what was in the box. Something scary or dangerous, perhaps?
'... all they want to do is leave you alone'
That, right there, brought a smile to his face and made him nod enthusiastically. "A very, very good point. Sometimes, they're just there, going about their own business, and you're the one intruding. Sometimes you might need to give them some kind of peace offering to show that you mean them no harm but most of the time, leaving them alone will be best. Very well done, Miss Kramer." Smile.
Text Cut: Tenacius Quote:
Originally Posted by Steelsheen Grass stains schmrass stains. Nothing beats the fresh scent of real grass the way Mama Nature makes it. Or at least a very talented Wizard like Hirsch can conjure. Besides, the House Elves likely have placed an impervius charm all over his uniform, six years of doing his laundry taught them that. And upon the Professor's response, two very enthusiastic thumbs up shot into the air. Whether your're 5 or 50, no one is too old to enjoy rolling in the grass he always thought.
Soon enough his field of vision was filled with one Vi Holden. It was only on her asking about the box that he remembered that it was still there. He lifted his head, looked at the wriggling thing and said "Schrodinger's cat." She gets that right?
~*~
But oh lesson is starting and as much as he still wanted to lay on the grass and just chill, he forced himself to get up on his bum and pay attention. And its a good thing he did because it was quite an interesting discussion, specially for the Gryffindors trigger happy sort. A bleeding irony really, given recent events of his own behavior but then it was unusual circumstances. Or jumping to the wrong conclusions shh. Up goes the hand "Snakes. Dont attack a snake. At least the Muggle-y ones. Snake wranglers say that for as long as the snake doesnt feel trapped or threatened it wont attack, it will always opt to leave."
Pause. Well he just learned something important these last few seconds innit? Life lessons "I guess the first thing one should do is to evaluate if theres anything about ourselves that's causing the creature to react the way it does. Sometimes we can save ourselves a whole lot of trouble if we just tweak a small thing about what we're doing, change the whole situation completely."
Well, if anything, he was glad that the Gryffindor Prefect was enjoying the grass so much. Being the kind of professor he was, the man didn't really mind as long as he was still paying attention to the lesson.
While snakes were an excellent example - and one he fully expected someone to bring up because of how relevant it is - it wasn't until the Gryffindor ploughed on with the second part of the answer that Hirsch really smiled. "Excellent mention of a snake in this situation. Snakes are a great example of a creature that won't attack you until you threaten it. They're dangerous and poisonous but they're not as harmful if you just know to leave them alone, no matter how big or scary they look."
Now. The next point. "I'm very glad that you've brought up the part about evaluating whether it's something about you that's causing the creature to react in that way. Most of the time, people don't do this and act in a way that provokes the creature and makes them attack and then they view the creature in a negative way because of it. That tweaking that you mentioned is exactly what we need to do in certain situations. Very well done, Mr Salander." Smile.
Text Cut: Thomas Quote:
Originally Posted by Weasley174 Thomas looked at the Professor and raised his hand. "You should always get the first attack in so they don't hurt you, so no I can't think of a reason." Thomas wouldn't hurt a normal animal but magical creatures they were different.
......... What?
Er.
Hirsch paused for a moment to readjust his glasses. "Not exactly," he said, blinking at the first year, "The best defence is a good offence but this doesn't work for every situation. Sometimes, you could make the situation worse simply by attacking in the first place." Maybe the lesson could explain why.
Text Cut: Dorian Quote:
Originally Posted by DuckyLinJi "The best run" Dorian answered with as much sarcasm he could make. There was a smile though so he wasn't annoyed with the professor's question. Anyways, the boy snapped to attention while he had been making himself more comfortable on the cushion as the door had shut closed. And only now did he realise how cool the classroom looked and also the box next to the oldest man in this room...heh
At the question, the boy thought, and thought and let other students go first until he got an answer himself. Raising up his hand, the first year waved it around to catch the attention. "You shouldn't attack when they're eating cause that's just RUDE" yup. "Unless you're on the menu of course then you better run" he lowered his hand now. Perfect answer he thought so himself.
Ah, sarcasm. It was nice to hear and, frankly, something he fully expected from teenagers. The boy was learning early.
Amused, Hirsch concentrated on the answer he was giving, instead. "That's a very good point, actually. No one wants to be disturbed while they're eating, animals included." Food was just that important. "And, sometimes, running is a better solution. Well done, Mr Katharos."
Text Cut: Ava Quote:
Originally Posted by RandomRaven She could not help but noticed that Professor Hirsch referred her as Ava, not Miss Burton and it seemed not many students being called by their first name, just some certain students. Oooh, did this mean she was one of his special student? Maybe. Also, she needed to talk to this man about her internship sometime later. And hello, Char. The Gryffindor just smiled at her fellow because the class had already started. Ava listened to the professor talked about dark creatures. Oh, probably they're going to handle some kind of dangerous dark creature like... basilisk? Nah, that's probably too dangerous. She still tried to make a mental guess what's inside the mystery box. Hmmmm....
Alright, let's just get back to the discussion first.
"I think we're not supposed to attack a creature if it's beyond our capabilities, Professor. I mean, if we attack it then there's a huge possibility the creature would attack us back. If we couldn't handle it properly so then... catastrophe." Ava spoke up as she raised her hand.
And here was a talk about capabilities.
Hirsch thought about this answer for a moment, let it settle in properly, before saying, "A good point. You don't start a battle you know you're going to lose. It's just not smart, at the end of the day." So yes, she was right. "I'm glad you mentioned it because it suggests evaluating a situation first which will always prove to be beneficial to you. Well done!"
Text Cut: Noelle Quote:
Originally Posted by ChanceCoeur Hirsch. Noelle grinned and nodded at his question. Of course, she'd have to tell him about her almost month of training at some point. Today was not that day.
She straightened up excitedly when the class began. DADA was one of her favorites. And as much as she wanted to learn about dragons, so cool, she was eager to see what Hirsch had up his sleeve.
Everyone one had good answers and Noelle nodded at several of them. Her favorite being Olly's answer.. and lets be real, its because it was so him.
Noelle also gave a little smile to Stasya as she joined her and then saw Emm too. She got a hesitant smile but a smile none the less.
"I wouldn't attack a creature who has young around. Mothers can be very territorial. They are just protecting their young." Noelle said, adding onto Zoryn's answer.
Oh!
Oh!
"This is an excellent point. You don't mess with a mother, no matter whether they're from a blood-thirsty beast or a tiny, fluffy creature. If you value your life, you don't do it." Pause. "And there are some ethical reasons why you shouldn't but we'll get to that in a bit. Well done!"
Text Cut: Charlotte Quote:
Originally Posted by Tegz Soooo Char wasn't sure where Hirschy was going with all this but she was listening intently and actually absorbing every word for a change, instead of just letting all the talking wash over her. But then she had found that he wasn't the sort of professor that just spoke to hear himself and usually she could get useful stuff out of it for her dueling, so it was easy to pay attention for that reason.
She cocked her head to one side thoughtfully at the questions he framed. Why might it be wrong....? Well.... he stuck her hand up.
"Professor... some creature have spell-resistant features like hides that absorb or repel magic so it would be really silly to just start shooting spells at them. Like Manticores and Graphorns for instance. So in some situations, its really important not to just jump in there, " which made her Gryffindor heart SAD, "You'd have to think outside the box if you want to use magic to defeat it or to protect yourself at all. You might just enrage them further or provoke them to attack you if you aren't smart about it."
This was a very unique answer and, as always, it got Hirsch smiling.
"I'm glad you mentioned the spell-resistant features behind some creatures," They had, after all, covered a creature that was resistant to most spells just recently. "In some cases, these creature might be used to seeing magic being used, especially against them, so using magic directly against them is only going to provoke them further and make them more likely to attack you. Not a good form of self-defence." Just saying. "Excellent point, though, well done!"
Text Cut: Derf Quote:
Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie Was something wrong? Why yes, thank you for asking, Professor Hirsch. THERE WAS GRASS EVERYWHERE.
Only there was little time for the third year to protest as the door shut BEHIND him, meaning that the man had now trapped him in the classroom. Derf tried focusing on the box while offering the man a ciiiiiircular nod of the head -
meaning he was both nodding and shaking his head at the same time and not really giving the man a solid answer.
Yes, attention was had. And he may have secreted just a tiiiiiiiiiny bit at that loud SNAP of the door. Thank you, sir. Trust was slowly plummeting once again.
And then came the question...and now Derf was GAPING at the man. WHAT DID HE MEAN WHAT SITUATIONS SHOULD YOU NOT?! ALL SITUATIONS POINTED TO NOT! It had been partly why the Hufflepuff had struggled SO much with some of the IMPS competition. Sure, those runespoors had been INSANELY strong and arguably the most epic champions of the whole tournament...but he had agreed with Kyle Baker's tactics of hiding up in a tree. Pity competition always forced practicality and he had had to get down and face the creature in the end.
The HORROR at this question kept Derf quiet, although some of his classmates' responses diiiiiiiid put him a little bit at ease. But only a little.
He didn't want to use any spells on any creatures, thank you very much.
Especially given how, er, unpredictable his spellcasting was.
Did it count as Defense Against the Dark Arts if he got the other creature to puke up slugs? THAT was the only sort of spell that he was comfortable in casting AND quite proficient.
........... Er.
This was starting to get him worried all over again. Silence was fine, expected even, but given how the boy had entered the room, it was making him wonder whether it would be best if Mr Ashburry-Hawthorne went back and slept for a while, instead. Maybe that would help with the way he was currently feeling? And he could get notes from someone else instead of having to stand by the door for the entirety of the lesson.
Yeah. Worried.
Text Cut: Maisie Quote:
Originally Posted by Moonhare Maisie considered the question carefully. The Head Girl had already touched on something Maisie thought was the appropriate answer to the question, but another older student expanded on it further.
To add her own opinion, Maisie raised her hand. "It depends what kind of creature it is. I mean, if it's someone's pet pygmy puff, you wouldn't really consider attacking it. If it was a hissing, spitting dragon, then yes, you'd want some sort of self-defence to employ."
Oh?
Hirsch tilted his head slightly, considering this answer. "That's.... also a good point, Miss Dimple. The type of creature would tell you what you'd need to do, for your own safety. If self-defence in your example counts as using a Shield Charm or something similar, I would recommend it. But don't attack a dragon because you won't win." You'd need at least seven or eight people there. "But that's a good point, well done!" Smile.
Text Cut: Sam Quote:
Originally Posted by hermygirl As Hirsch launched into the lesson, Sam couldn't help but keep a watchful eye on her best friend. She glanced discretely between the Gryffindor and the parchment on her lap as she made notes, the discussion of darkness being on a spectrum cutting a little close to home. She didn't doubt there was greyness in herself, and growing up round Knockturn Alley, she'd seen a whole variety of witches and wizards come and go.
She'd learnt, especially recently, to be open-minded about such things.
Although why Hirsch assumed she'd just jump in all wands blazing just at the sight of a creature, Sam didn't know. Sure, she took the point about dementors - but caution would always be her primary tactic. Her Pa would tell her to not engage unless she had to, the reason why she'd dressed as a boy growing up, and Uncle Spike, well, he'd always told her that a creature would be far more scared of her than she should be of it. And he had an acromantula for a patronus, so she was inclined to believe him. Of course, plenty of others had already mentioned that, in various guises.
Athough, it was curious that Hirsch had explicitly said attack a creature, not just cast on it. And that got her thinking... "I dunno if it's what you mean, Professeh," Sam started, raising her hand. "But sometimes, regardless of the creature, it might be betteh to put a spell on yourself, than on it. Like...maybe disillusion yerself, or use a silencing charm so you won't disturb it."
Now, this was an interesting answer. A very interesting answer.
"That is an excellent point, Sam. I did mean putting a spell on the creature itself so I'm glad you've thought outside of the box and suggested spells to use on yourself. The creature might still be able to smell you but by casting the Silencing or Disillusionment Charms, you could save yourself from being attacked and you won't be scaring the creature either." Possibly. "Very well done."
Text Cut: Viv Quote:
Originally Posted by Kayla Taaffe Viv was excited for DADA. She was excited to learn how to defend herself. There can be good and bad creatures and good and bad spells. The Unforgivable Curses were a prime example. She paid attention very well. She did not want to lose her soul. She took a deep breath and relaxed. "You should not attack a creature when approaching a Hippogriff. Hippogriff are proud and loyal creatures."
A Hippogriff? "A hippogriff is an excellent example of a creature you shouldn't attack. It's in their nature to not trust easily and if you provoke them, it could just be the last thing you end up doing. So in that case, it's better to be careful and show them that you mean them no harm." Huh.
"Well done, Miss Awning." Smile.
Text Cut: Harriet Quote:
Originally Posted by RachieRu Harriet knew she had to try and pay attention in DADA. To be honest she needed to pay attention in all of her classes. She had to pass her owls. She'd started the year a bit distracted, but she knew she really needed to start paying attention. If she didn't she would fail. And whilst right now her plan didn't really need her OWLS, she wanted to have them as a back up. Just in case she decided she didn't want to be a art therapist once she graduated. Hattie also pretty much enjoyed DADA, so she wanted to make sure she didn't miss anything.
She smiled as the Professor began the lesson. She was excited to learn some new things, hopefully it wouldn't be too hard though. She didn't need too hard, not if she was trying to remember it all for when she did her exams later on in the year. "Uh... I suppose if there are a lot of muggles around." Harriet murmured, as she raised her hand into the air. "Obviously we need to protect everyone. But if it is too busy and chaotic there is a chance you could hurt the muggles, and then that would just create more chaos. It would be better to try and think of a better solution than just attacking straight away."
Muggles! Hirsch was very glad that someone had brought up the Muggle factor.
"Exactly! You can use magic in certain life-threatening situations but if it means you're endangering the lives of people around you, magic might not be the best form of self-defence. Chances are, the creature is probably scared enough as it is because of the number of people surrounding it." Something to think about. "I'm very glad that you mentioned muggles. Well done, Miss Paton!"
Text Cut: Vivian Quote:
Originally Posted by Kimothy Would Vivian ever enter this classroom unarmoured and without a song? Of course not. It had been a daily challenge for her every day and, so far, she hadn't forgotten her extra 'assignment'.
But they were moving on with the lesson proper. Vivian listened intently, hanging on to each word that came out of Professor Hirsch's mouth. The question, however, didn't require much thought because the blond already knew what she'd do on impulse. Was she really going to think thoroughly about it when the actual creature was already in front of her? Sometimes, she believed it was easier to answer questions than to do the real thing. There was always a huge difference. Nevertheless, the prefect raised her hand to share. "I wouldn't attack the animal if it was eating," she shared, agreeing with the firstie Ravenclaw from earlier. "And if I were in that situation, Professor, I wouldn't attack first. I'd wait to see if the creature sees me as a threat before doing anything that could lead to disaster." If it meant no harm, then there really was no point of sending a spell in the first place.
After all, this class was about defense against the dark arts, not offense. Right?
And here was another case of evaluating the situation first, something that seems to be being brought up by many Slytherin girls. Huh.
"Seeing whether they see you as a threat is an excellent way of determining what you should do next. They might just be scared of you and looking to see what you do so if you show them that you mean them no harm, they're unlikely to do anything to you." A form of self-defence in itself. "And they are likely to be more territorial over their food. Very good point!"
Text Cut: Kirk Quote:
Originally Posted by Charely Potter As soon as class started Kirk had an inkling on what today could involve with the grassy terrain and some familiar looking rocks decorated throughout the class. His interested peaked over the box however despite his bored expression. Perhaps a magical creature was charmed to stay inside of it until it was time to interact with it, but this was a defensive class so any sort of creature wasn't going to be entirely friendly.
Why wouldn't you attack a creature? Seemed the be the question of the day with the answers and responses. Kirk might have lost himself in the theoretical scenarios before giving an answer, "It's good to wait until the creature makes the first move. See if it's really interested in you or not.." He stopped for a moment to think up a scenario, "Like if you came across a Acromantula that just ate or is already feasting on something. You might not want to get its attention on you before you can book it."
Hirsch would've been worried that the bored expression on Kirk's face meant that he didn't want to be here and was only obliged to being here and therefore, didn't want to pay attention. But then the boy was answering his question and the Defence Professor cast the worry aside.
Wait first? "That's an excellent way of evaluating a situation first before deciding whether to attack or not. The creature might not be interested in you in the first place but by attacking it, you could provoke it and make it hurt you, in the process. This is not called for and could land you in greater trouble than you would've been in originally." Pause. "Nice mention of an Acromantula, by the way. That's one battle you can't win. Well done!"
Text Cut: Kyle Quote:
Originally Posted by Zellanna "Some creatures only attack to defend themselves," Kyle said after raising his hand. "Like rattlesnakes. They're not bad creatures, they're just really scared and they happen to be poisonous. But because of that, people attack them on sight." It was rather unfortunate, really. Kyle tended to like snakes. He wouldn't be caught dead anywhere near a rattlesnake if he could so help it, but he didn't think they deserved to die. "Dogs can also be very defensive. Some breeds are blamed for being too aggressive, though. But in general, if you come across a dog that's growling at you, you should back away slowly and not run, or they might chase you."
'Some creatures only attack to defend themselves'
If he was that type of man, Hirsch would've leapt with joy. "Precisely! Some creatures see you as the threat, especially if you're waving spells at it here and there so attacking it is not doing to be doing anyone any favours. Your examples perfectly explain this situation. It's better to evaluate to see whether they're going to attack you or not." This answer made him really happy.
"Very, very well done, Kyle." Smile.
Text Cut: Rhea Quote:
Originally Posted by natekka Rhea couldn't help but laugh when Professor Hirsch asked why it might not be the best idea to get your wand out and, quote, 'start throwing random spells here and there' at a creature. What a question! She tried to think of answers that weren't ... well, 'here and there' aren't very precise locations, Sir ... or ... random spells would be a bit pointless ... but it proved quite difficult.
A specific situation? Nah. "You shouldn't react so erratically anyway. It would only cause any creature to panic and try and defend itself. Then you'd both be panicked and you'd be more likely to hurt yourself or the creature." Pause. "There's other factors to consider too. Like is the creature hostile, is it protecting something, are there any muggles around?" Her answers didn't really include any specific situations but whatever.
Was there a hint of sass here or was he imagining it? Huh.
Regardless, he nodded at this answer. It didn't matter that there wasn't a specific creature or situation mentioned because it did encompass most situations you might find yourself in. "It's a simple case of making the situation worse than it needs to be. You don't want to provoke the creature otherwise you'll find yourself in worse trouble than you did originally." Out of the frying pan and into the fire, anyone?
"That's an excellent point. I'm glad you've mentioned that there are other factors that could affect this as well. Well done!"
Text Cut: Dora Quote:
Originally Posted by Erindipity Um. Sweat vanishing charm? The boy got himself a LOOK, but as she opened her mouth to speak, Professor Hirsch began class. Thank Merlin for that. But she'd tell him all about cooling charms and deodorant later. Yep. Helpful, she was.
Focusing her attention on the man up front... she began to feel a bit uncomfortable with the a few remarks he had made. Mainly because she felt like maybe it was directed at her. Was it? Surely not. Did it FEEL like it? Yep. A frown etching her features she opted to stay quiet this time around. But she did not down that she agreed that not attacking was ideal. And that perhaps silencing and disillusionment charms in some instances were ideal. Yep.
Another silent student?
Again, nothing to worry about, especially since he knew that the girl would be paying attention. There was no reason not to, right? Saying nothing, he simply smiled at her and moved on.
And no, it wasn't directed at her.
Text Cut: Remy Quote:
Originally Posted by Stormdancer Remy gave Professor Hirsch an easy grin as the man welcomed him to class. ”Hope you’re okay today.” He told him as he waited for everyone to come into the classroom and for the class to start. He gave smiles and waves at all of his friends and even gave a smile to Beau - the first year that he had worked with a few weeks ago in Potions. Yup, he remembered.
Okay, starting now. Fantastic. Hmmm, yes. Listening to his classmates, the Seventh year attempted to think of a new idea, rather than repeating the ideas of the others in his class. He did write down their ideas though, joting down most of them in a bullet pointed list.
”As some said, attacking can just aggravate matters especially if the creature didn’t know you were around them, However unless you know the creature and how they defend themselves, that can be a bad idea. For instance some creatures view noise and eye contact as threatening, while other creatures consider that a reason to not attack. Some creatures view backing away as a reason to charge, while others view it as you leaving them alone. If you don’t know the specifics of the creature you are facing, you could do the wrong thing and endanger anyone around you… That, and the creature itself maybe endangered already. Some creatures are, and should be looked after… even if they are dangerous.” There, he was shutting up now.
Was he okay? "I'm great, thank you. Hope you're okay as well." It was nice of him to ask, really.
Focusing on the answer being given, Hirsch couldn't help but smile widely, dimples on full display. "An excellent point, Remy, well done! I'm glad you've mentioned the fact that knowing what the creatures views as threatening would help you in this situation. Not every creature is going to view your non-threatening actions as non-threatening, after all."
And, what was even better, was the last part of the Hufflepuff's answer. "i'm very glad you've mentioned the part about creatures being endangered. I'll explain more later but you've touched upon the topic of today's lesson. Very well done!"
When it looked like no one else was going to answer, Hirsch turned towards everyone in turn, giving his hands a small, single clap as he did so. "Excellent! That was an excellent round of answers and I'd say you've all touched upon the reasons why attacking first is not a good idea." Even if, sometimes, offence was the best defence.
"A number of you mentioned something about attacking a creature will only end up provoking it and you're very right. Sometimes, you could put yourself in more trouble just by using magic or making threatening moves towards a creature. It'll scare them and make them see you as a threat that they need to take out. No one wants to see themselves in a situation like that." And if they did then, well, they had different priorities. "A number of you also mentioned evaluating a situation before deciding what your move should be. If the creature isn't causing you any kind of harm and doesn't look like it's going to hurt you, there's no need to hurt it." Frankly, it was stupid. "But there are times when the creature might get particularly unruly and aggressive; I mean, you are in their territory, after all. In situations like these, you might need to do something to defend yourself and stop the creature in their tracks."
"Now, some of you have touched upon something I wanted to bring to your attention and that is: ethics." Dramatic pause, anyone? "Some spells, while acceptable against each other, are seen to be ethically wrong to use against a creature, especially an endangered creature. One of these spells is Incarcerous, the rope-conjuring charm. The Ministry says it's wrong to use this spell against a creature for a number of reasons and would rather you use another spell, instead."
Did they see where he was getting at?
"The Ensnarement Charm is the focus of today's lesson. It's a charm that causes vines to grow out of the ground, especially ones that have a lot of greenery like grass," He gestured at the grass surrounding them. "Or objects that have some form of greenery on them already." At this, he gestured at the rocks off to one side of the room. "As the name suggests, the Ensnarement Charm ensnares a creature and restricts its mobility. It uses vines to capture them and make them stay where they are."
Pause.
"Now, I know what you're thinking: it sounds very similar to Incarcerous, with the exception of vines being used instead of ropes. So my next question is: why do you think the Ministry says that the Ensnarement Charm is more ethical than Incarcerous?"
At this, the box gave another violent shake and Hirsch gave it a look before turning to the students. Nothing to see here. OOC: Gosh, that's a lot of words ;___;
Thanks for sticking with me and for the amazing answers! Keep up the fabulous work 
The next question should be muuuuch easier: why is the Ensnarement Charm more acceptable than Incarcerous? There is no right or wrong answer so please feel free to think outside of the box <3
I'm going to give you guys roughly 24 hours and then we can move on to the next part of the lesson (YAY!) If you have any questions/comments/concerns, nudge a Kita anywhere ^^
Thanks, lovelies!
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