DADA Class 1
 

The Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom had a slightly stale odor to it after having been shut up for most of the summer, in spite of the half-hearted cleaning attempts Tate attempted. He wasn't a cleaner, and he didn't have time to learn to be one.

He threw open the windows as he entered the classroom, opting instead to spend the first few minutes in the room tracing chalk outlines on the floor. The lines created a sort of flat maze, covering the room from the door to his desk at the front. Tate cleaned his hands on his robes before taking a seat behind the desk.

Class is in session.

Oh, yes, Defense, man! That's what he needed, no?

Treyen almost ran when he find out about class...because he had no idea. How Treyen of him. He never knew when the classes were being held, nor where.

"Good day, Professor" he said, with a smile on his face, a smile that turned into a wide one when he noticed the chalk on the floor. Interesting! He totally wondered what they were about to see today and took a seat.

Keefer skipped into the classroom, ready for the first lesson of his fourth year. Spotting both the Professor and the interesting detail on the floor, he turned to Tate looking quizzical. "Great day for Defense lessons, isn't it? I can't wait to see what all this is for," he said, gesturing to the chalked-up floor. "Have a good summer, Professor?"

Branwen was really excited to be attending her first class ever at Hogwarts. She walked into the classroom and suddenly saw the chalk outlines on the ground. She quickly moved as close to the wall as possible so she wouldn't ruin them.

Selena entered the classroom with a smile, looking forward to her first class of the day. "Hello Professor, how are you?"" she greeted. Erm... interesting smell. She looked at the ground in confusion. Ohkay... seemed like it was going to be quite an interesting class... excluding the smell which she hoped would fade soon. Selena walked over to a random seat and sat down, waiting for class to begin.

Destiny stood in the doorway to the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom faced with a HUGE dilemma. She had known there was going to be a new Professor teaching since Truebridge left, but she did not expect it to be Headmaster Tate! She didn't even know he could teach!

So the dilemma of this situation..

She had NO idea what she was supposed to call him now. Was she supposed to call him Headmaster still, even though he was teaching, or was she supposed to call him Professor, even though he was still the Headmaster? All this thinking was giving her a headache!

Deciding that she couldn't just stand there all day, since no one else would be able to walk in the classroom with her blocking the entrance, she slooooooowly made her way in, still thinking of what to call him. As she passed him, she said the first thing that came to her mind, "Hiya, buddy!"

Oh look! Headmaster Professor Buddy was like a chalk ARTIST!

joey came into the classroom and sat at a desk.she saw selena her aunt.hello professor how are you today.i'm looking foward to the class.

Doing this as I watch Bones ;)
 

Evelyn was getting rather impatient. Why wasn't Destiny moving into the room? I mean, really. She had heard that the Headmaster would be the one that was teaching the defense lessons this year, and she knew that Destiny knew, but could she at least walk into the ROOM?! There was a line building up! Regardless of the fact that the most awesome professor in all history of professors wasn't teaching here anymore, they still needed to attend the lesson. Not tardy either would be nice.

Finally though it seemed that she was moving into the room. Sighing in relief, and annoyance, the Slytherin squeezed her way around her friend so she could go choose a desk, when her feet stopped in place in surprise. Woooaaah, what was on the floor? No! No flailing! Don’t step on the chalk!!

ACK!

Slamming her back against the wall, she stared at all the chalk drawing thing, debating on where to sit. Right. Now...what was up with the chalk? "Arts and crafts today, Professor?"

Enya walked in and saw the chalk lines. She wondered what the class would be about. She walked into the classroom and said, "Good Morning Professor Tate." She took a seat near August and pulled out her book and quill and ink and waited for class to begin.

Rhea stopped by the door and adjusted her tie. School was actually really starting. She walked into the classroom her book bag swinging by her side. There were quite a number of students in class already. She walked by the front so she could say good day to the professor.
"Good day Professor Headmaster Tate." She smiled and then took a seat in the second row. Her usual seat in this class, then she glanced around to see if any friends were already there.

The smile that had literally grown on Trixie's face as soon as she saw a new lesson had been scheduled, had grown even larger now that the lesson was actually starting. She may sound like a complete swot, but that was what you came to school for, to learn, and Trix was certainly willing to do so. Which explained why the Blonde had a skip in her step as she entered the DADA classroom whilst glancing round.

"Hello Prof..." Wait was it Professor or Headmaster? See now these were the things Trixie's mind could no comprehend, what it was she was supposed to call her new DADA teacher. Now that Truebridge had left *Sniff* the students had unexpectedly gained Tate as their professor. Which was amazing and yet slightly nerve wracking. "...fessor" the Slytherin continued. Should she add on Headmaster Tate as well? Just for good measures you know.

"It's great to be back, hows life treating you?" What kind of a question was that? Now she was just making random polite conversation in the middle of a lesson. You know what? She was just gonna be quiet now. The sixth year shuffled her way towards the front end of the classroom not wanting to ruin any of this chalk artwork going on, waiting for anyone she knew to come along.

Danika, in her Durmstrang uniform, of course, decided it would be of her interest to attend a Defense Against the Dark Arts class over here. Just to know how it worked, and especially to know how the Headmaster taught the lesson, surely Zitnik would be interested in finding that out.

"Hello, Headmaster Tate, I vas told I could join in" she said, with a nod. Danika wasn't really asking him, that's why she entered and took a seat after giving the Hogwarts Headmaster a little bow with her head.

Chalk, huh? That was...odd.

Tate raised an eyebrow as the first student entered the class. Hufflepuff. Polite. A bit perky, but that never hurt anyone.

"Good day. Take a seat anywhere in the room."

"We're lucky to have good weather," Tate agreed, nodding to the blue sky just visible through the trees outside the window. The problem with being on the courtyard was the impeded view of the grounds, but at least it was a private window.

"Have a seat, kid. You're safe. The floors don't bite," Tate laughed at the girl pressed up against the wall.

"Doing quite well, thank you," Tate nodded to the girl. "Don't mind the smell. Just a bit musty in here at the moment."

"I'd rethink that, Miss Shepherd." Tate said, his face straight although he felt like smirking. Buddy? Not today. "Have a seat in the meantime."

"I'm doing well. Go ahead and get out your quill and parchment. We'll begin shortly."

Tate waved at the boy before gesturing to some of the seats near the front. "Welcome. Have a seat."

Jayce entered the DADA class room with a mixture of feelings about this all. He didn't exactly want to be here, because.. well.. it was class. Yet, he was excited because it was the first one of the year and he also happened to be confused by the fact the the headmaster was teaching this class.

He hadn't ever heard of a headmaster teaching one of the classes.. but.. meh. Oh well. Annnnnnndddd.. there he was. The infamous headmaster sitting at his desk. Wow, it really was strange. But, he'd get use to it. He threw the professor a quick smile and a slight head nod before walking over to where Trixie was.

"Hey there." he greeted his blond girlfriend.

Brittany walked into the classroom happily. This was her first lesson of the year...he first lesson ever... and she was super stoaked. She then remembered she hadnt made her way down to meet the DADA professor and she was a little disappointed in her self. But ehhh she could dazzle him in class now so that's all that matter now.

She looked around to see if anyone looked familar but she didnt reall see anyone so she just took a seat placing her quil and parchment on the desk ready to learn. *smile* at the professor as she waited patiently

Jacob walked towards the Defense Classroom. It was weird, this was the first time he ever wanted to go to class... other than Lainey's and Vindictus' Lessons.

Jacob walked through the classroom door. He was about to say hello to the professor. He took a breath, but his head shot downwards and looked at the floor. His face wrinkled and relaxed over and over with confusion. He tried to follow the lines, before...

BAM!
Nobody Saw That!

Jacob tripped over his on feet and hit the ground. Quickly Jumping to his feet, he dusted himself off from the little chalk that was on his robes. "I'm Okay" Breath... Breath... That was weird... He quickly took a seat.

"Hello Professor" It was weird having the headmaster teach.

Ellie walked into the classroom and her nose involuntarily wrinkled. Uhm, Ew? She was ABOUT to open her mouth to say something, or say hi to the Professor...both, when she saw who the Professor was. And it was the HEADMASTER! She'd wondered where Truebs was at the feast.... But while she thought that the Headmaster was a very nice person, it was still pretty intimidating to see him. Here. In class. So... she just smiled. Yeahhh.

Her eyes left him and darted to the floor, where she noticed the chalk. Interesting... She pondered what the lesson would be as she wandered over to the window. Where the fresh air was. Welcoming fresh air.

Lexi bounded in the DADA classroom, no way she was going to miss Headmaster Hottie's first class. SHYEAH RIGHT! Stopping inside the doorway to smooth her hair back and straighten her robes she smiled and happily chimed, "Good day, Professor!" Yeah she saw him there behind his desk looking all... RAWR like only Tatertot can. Hehe. She eyeed the floor momentarily and wiped the drool from her chin then took a seat near the front. She would most likely regret that choice later.

With a book and parchment in hand, Cosette had made her way towards the classroom she had been told to go to. Her first class at this school. Maybe after this she can properly give her impression on it. So far it was just a dank & dirty castle with loud and crazy students. Taking in a breath, she turned into the classroom and looked around.

Chalk. Chalk everywhere? Honestly? Looking over to see what kind of teaching this was, she saw the Headmaster. Really? She had no idea he could teach. "Bonjour Professor." She said, putting on a charming smile. She at least needed to seem pleasant. Defense Against the Dark Arts was a class she needed to excel in to become a Hit Wizard. Walking over, not looking at any of her fellow peers, she took her seat near no one. Setting her book and parchment down, she pulled out a quill and bottle of ink from her robes and set them on the desk as well.

The first lesson of the term had Arya excited. The fact that it was with the Headmaster had the young puff even more excited. Would he be a good professor? Or as good as Truebridge, she wasn't sure about that part, but she did like him so he had to be some kinda good.

Skipping into the classroom, wand twirling in her right hand, she grinned at the......professor. "Hey, Professor Tate!" That sounded weird to her, and a little funny. Made her giggle a bit.

He would have gotten a 'how was your day?', but the chalky maze had grabbed her attention. Such a distraction it was.

Oh, there was the boy that Jake managed to scare away. Or, yeah, that.

Not scare away, but he went away when Jake came around? Something like that. What was his name? Keef? Keefer? Keefer!

Treyen waved hello at the fellow Huffie and eyed the Professor as he was being addressed.

Er, yes, Treyen nodded, he was just about to seat when he said that.

Amazing! Like the Professor was also a Seer!

Noel really did not have specific interest in the actual subject of defense class he heard would be starting soon, but he was interested in the fact that the Headmaster of Hogwarts would be teaching it; which, was the main reason he was walking into the room after a few other students did. It would surely be an educational class of course, if the Headmaster was the one teaching it.

He was a bit surprised with the chalk drawings on the floor though. "Bonjo-" Oops. "Hello, Headmaster." Best remember that they spoke English. That was still something he needed to get used to. Smiling and with a nod of his head, Noel took one of the back seats, making sure not to step on any of the chalk drawn on the floors.

Interesting.

Merlin, there's a lot of you
 

"You could say that," Tate agreed, actually grinning a bit this time. You could CERTAINLY say that.

"Good day to you," Tate nodded to the boy. "Up front? That's brave."

"Good morning, child," Tate wiggled his fingers at the girl.

"Good day," Tate nodded. A lot of polite students. Another Hufflepuff... maybe Neo was doing something right down there near the kitchens.

"Life? It keeps trekking onward, doesn't it?" Tate was quite amused by the constant pile up near the door, as well as the way the students kept stumbling over his name. Poor scared babies. "Good summer, I trust?"

"Park it, kid," Tate gestured for another one holding up traffic to move her tail through the door and find a seat. "The chalk lines aren't going to wipe up just by you looking too hard at them. Come on in."

"Yes, of course," Tate gestured. "Sit, sit. I'm sure you'll be able to share a very interesting perspective with us."

"You followed the wall instead of the path," Tate offered the boy, although the words were cryptic. "Maybe you can try again later. Good day to you."



"Just one more minute, and we'll get started. I'll remind you that there is no chatting in this class and that any latecomers will lose points. Please get out your quill and parchment."

Aww!

They weren't buddies? Unless they were buddies and Headmaster Professor Tate didn't want the whole class to know. Yeah, she could understand why. Wouldn't want everyone jealous and all. They would just be SECRET Buddies, that's all.

With a nod of her head, and a super secret thumbs up, she made her way over to an empty seat, close to the front.

Buddy vision.

Josey walked chaerfully into the room, well that wasn't really a suprise. She was always cheerful. "Hello Professor," she said cheerfully when she walked into class. Wait, wasn't he the headmaster. Ah well, he could still teach if he wanted to, she wsan't one to judge. She looked around the room and decided to sit down by Arya, her one year older hufflepuff friend. She gave her a smile before turning to observe the room.

Marie made her way into the Defense classroom only to stop suddenly when she seen who the professor was.

Headmaster HOTTIE!

Was he going to be their professor the whole term? If so this was definitely going to be her favorite class for sure. She had been worried about who was going to be their new professor when Truebridge had told them he was leaving but now... NOW she was happy to see who it was.

Walking over the chalk lines she found a seat at the FRONT of the class... nice and close to HeadProfessor Hottie.... and faaaaaar away from Destiny, who she still wasn't talking to because thanks to her and that stupid potion, Carter wasn't talking to her now. "Hello Sir, how are you today?" she said as she sat down.

"Indeed" Trixie grinned. Pffffffft... What a rubbish answer that was. But to be honest there wasn't a lot else she could say on the matter. It DID keep trekking onwards. Made sense. "It was wonderful thank you" she smiled softly before glancing around to see who else had entered the room.

Ella, Jayce, Vashti, Merlin who was the girl meant to sit with, but considering she was already at the front and apparently so was Vashti, all the Blonde had to do was move up one space and she was there. Hopefully the others might have joined her anyway. However once the Slytherin had turned, she noticed Jayce was stood there anyway. Perfect.

Trix brought out her Quill and Parchment, an eager smile on her face ready for the lesson ahead. Meep this was gonna be so fun. Her face lit even more however when she noticed Noel and some other students were there too. Ah see now things got even MORE interesting.

Pamphylia walked into the classroom. She was surprised she actually found it. She saw the proffessor as she walked in. "Good day proffessor." She did a small curtsey, as she usually did in hellos.

She was smaller than most students she was hoping she didn't get trampled on, or that someone actually noticed her. She found a seat in the third row, somewere in the middle. She didn't want to sit in the back, yet not in the front. She plopped her bag onto her desk, and pulled out her latest book, and shyly burried her face in it.

It wasn't difficult for Sandra to find the defense classroom, she simply followed the crowd of students from her dormitory to the first lesson. She was obviously here to see how the Headmaster taught, and how the students were taught to defend themselves. Not to mention there was the off chance she could learn something.

Eyes flicking to the chalk maze on the floor, she quirked an eyebrow, curious as to what they would be doing before turning her gaze to the Headmaster. "Good day, Headmaster Tate." She nodded her head at the man as she took a seat beside her fellow school mate, giving the girl a smile. It seems they both had the same idea about their wardrobe.

Keefer saw Treyen waving to him. With a smile of recognition, he began to walk over to the seat next to him. "Mind if I sit here?" he asked Treyen.

Ella's daydreaming was interrupted when the Professor sharply motioned her to sit down. She felt a little embarrassed actually, she was just dawdling around when they were supposed to be sitting. "Oh, sorry sir."
*facepalm*

She nodded, sat down in the middle of the classroom, and got out her quill and parchment as the class were instructed to. She made no effort to acknowledge anyone that she knew in the class. 'Cause she just wanted to get on with it.

Delilah walked in the room and looked at the floor. Was that... Chalk? Weird... She looked at the professor and smiled. "Hello, Proffessor!" She said cheerfully. She LOVED this class. She proceeded in taking a seat in an empty desk.

Danika smiled, yes, Zitnik had mentioned it was okay for them to attend this classes, but she could still study on her own if she didn't feel they were fulfilling enough.

Share? The girl still smiled, but she didn't feel like sharing anything at the moment, not with the chalk lines, anyway.

And here came Sandra.

Danika said nothing, just returned the smile as she took the seat next to her. But started to wonder about Vladimir, he was the one who should be attending a lesson, no? To criticize, that is.

Treyen nodded, "Not at all! The seat is free and expecting to be taken" or so he thought, either way, "It's odd, right? The chalk" he said, pointing at the lines once more.

Truth be told, Treyen knew little of Defense, because he managed to miss plenty of lessons before.

This year will be different, though.

Jermaine had heard that there was going to be a Defense Against the Dark Arts class today, and that it was being taught by the Headmaster of the school. Not wanting to miss out on seeing the teaching techniques of this Headmaster he felt he should attend the class.

Upon entering the room he was surprised to see just how many students there were in the room. "Hello Sir, I do hope it is okay if I join your lesson today." she said. Spotting Noel sitting near the back of the room he went over to sit near him being careful not to step on the chalk drawings.

Wait

Why was there chalk drawings on the floor?

Iris hurried into the classroom, seeing that most of the class seemed to be here. However it looked like she'd JUST made it.

Not that she liked DADA that much.

But it was Tate teaching.... And Iris wanted to know what it was like, your Headteacher being the Professor. Hehe. "Hullo Headmaster Tate." She said cheefully, before taking her seat.

Hmm. Now why was there a maze drawn in chalk on the floor?

Surely they wouldn't be using it in the lesson.

"Thanks. Yeah, the chalk is weird. Perhaps it's a murder scene for several very straight creatures?" That would be so awesome! He imagined himself and his classmates playing Sherlock Holmes for awhile. Coming out of his reverie, he remembered that Tate had asked for no chatting. "Better be quiet til the lesson begins, eh?"

Brittany looked up to see mike sit next to her. "Hi mikey." she whispered. She new the headmaster/professor had said no chatting but she didnt want to be rude. she still waited patiently for the class to start

OK. No more personalized greeting... starting... NOW.
 

And there was a particularly frightening Gryffindor sitting right there in the front row. Tate raised an eyebrow at her. "Good day..."

She was BOUNCING. That was intense.

"Hello," Tate nodded at the young Ravenclaw. Also very polite, and looking eager to get started.

"Bonjour," Tate nodded at the girl. French? No, that was one of his...

"Miss Lovegoods," Tate gave her a wave. She visited him quite often, so Arya earned herself the slightest smile.

French. Yup. "Bonjour, mon amie," Tate gestured for the boy to take a seat. "I'm glad you could join us."

Ah, Stern. Let's see how the lad handled THIS lesson. "Mr. Stern. Good day to you."

"Hello," Tate nodded to the Hufflepuff as she entered the room. The class was filling up QUITE quickly, and it was definitely time to start.

"I'm doing well," Tate eyed the Slytherin as she came up to the front of the room... up close and personal. With the crazy Gryffindor girl. "Welcome to Defense Against the Dark Arts."

"Good day," Tate greeted the small girl as she entered the room. And... then she was hiding behind her book. Interesting. She'd have to pay attention once class got started.

Oh. The Bott girl. That one was a NIGHTMARE, she was. He didn't even bother waving back, simply giving her a nod and turning to the next student to enter.

Why was she so SPARKLY? He'd told them to wear things that could get dirty.

"Prefect," Tate nodded to the seventh year with the same somberness that Raiden seemed to always reflect. "I trust your term has been good thus far."

"Good day," Tate nodded to the girl before launching himself out of the seat to pace in front of his desk.



Posture ramrod straight and hands clasped behind his back, Tate was every inch the imposing military man. He eyed them all briefly before pausing in front of his desk. "Good day to you all. Class has officially begun, so I'll ask you to cut out any chattering and focus on the lesson at hand. I expect quite a lot from your, behavior-wise, but I know that you are capable of performing to my exacting standards. Let me be very clear with you... in this classroom, we are not friends. We are studying perhaps one of the most important subjects you will ever encounter at Hogwarts, and I take it seriously. If you cannot take it seriously, then you are excused from this class."

He paused in case anyone wanted to leave. "My name is Gaellen Tate, which should come as no surprise to those who are returning. You may call me Headmaster or Professor. I will also answer to Sir. I will brook no disrespect of myself or your classmates, so only those names will suffice. This class is discussion based, so I will expect your thoughtful responses. When responding, please raise your hand and give your answer. Are there any questions about my standards, or are we free to begin?"

Well, that answers the question of what to call him, I guess. He wondered how some of the first years would respond to this less-than-warm welcome. The returning students were used to it, but it could be a bit of a shock the first time. I wonder if I should get out my notebook... Better wait to see what the lesson actually is first. It looks like a practical. Those were the best lessons by far.

Brave?...of course, curious too but he was a gryffie after all.Simon replied nodded before doing as the man told the rest of the class. The boy unrolling his parchment on the desk in front of him and laying the quill beside ready to pick up and write.

Iris looked at Professor... Headmaster Tate as he started the lesson. Questions? Heh... Like ANYONE would be stupid enough to question those rules. Okay, there will probably be someone REALLY stupid enough to, but Iris just hoped it wasn't one of her Snakes that was that person.

She just sat there, looking at Tate. This lesson was going to be TOUGH, wasn't it?

She got out her parchment and plain quill, and set them down on the desk... Waiting for Tate to talk again.

Lili, Lottie, Brigette <3
 

Eirian walked into the DADA classroom, waving and sending her usual Portuguese greeting to... Headmaster Tate? Shrugging, she smiled anyway and made her way over to a familiar head of hair. Jay, naturally. Sliding in beside him, she looked up to him - geez, had he gotten taller? - and, not quite smiling, said, "Ola, filho." Then, looking to Vashti and Trixie flanking him - well, now them - she repeated. "Ola, Vashti. Trixie." There was no malice in her voice; she wouldn't waste her time on Trixie. She'd be gone for good eventually... hopefully sooner than later. But, until then, Eirian could at least give her a decent farewell.

And then the Headmaster started talking... Alright. She got out her things. Whatever... this was going to be interesting.

Tyler had a feeling that he would greatly enjoy this class. DADA had always been one of his favorite subjects during his lessons, and to have the opportunity to take the class with many other witches and wizards would only enhance the experience.

He leaned back in his chair as the professor addressed the class. Tyler glanced up, noticing immediately the stiff posture and no-nonsense manner. No problem with that. Discipline and respect were second nature to him.

Lexi listened and found herself sitting up straighter in her seat as Tatertot was so... serious. Well, let's face it, he was always serious. She had her pink quill in hand, parchment spread out on her desk, shaking her head. She had no questions about his standards in the classroom. None.

Why was Neptune Bott blowing kisses at her?!?

*Blink*

Trix decided to simply just smile back at her, although still a little confused as to what exactly she was doing. Was she blowing them at Jayce too? Well it was their first meeting all over again, as long as she didn't spend it all STARING at his hair. That was just....Weird. Her concentration however was drawn back to Headmaster Tate when he started speaking.

Well Trixie wasn't going to leave. No way, besides she DID take things seriously. She had all her OWL's did she not? And this lesson was going to be far too enjoyable to miss out on. So the Blonde stayed firmly in her seat and simply nodded at the Headmasters question. There wasn't much else she COULD say. She was so willing for this class to start already she could of been bouncing in her seat, luckily though she prevented herself from doing so, would have looked a little foolish if she did.

*shiver* the headmaster... Uh Professor seemed to be who doesnt play around. Brittany wondered what had she gotten herself into but she was tough girl so she could take whatever head... uh Professor threw at them... she hoped

Oh this guy was intense. Soo not like Professor Truebridge at all. Well, no he was strict too, but at least they had fun. Were they going to have ANY fun in this class now?

What was even more disappointing was that mysterious Durmstrang guy wasn’t here. She was so looking forward to perhaps sneaking a seat next to him. Eh well, since he wasn’t here, she would’ve taken a seat next to Josh…or Patroclus…but they weren’t here either. FAIL! Guess she’ll just have to settle next to Destiny. There was no way she was sitting in the front, even if Marie was up there.

Parchment and quill out, comfortable in her seat with back straight, and slightly ready to learn. Woooot!

Ellie tilted her head from side to side as she listened to Tate. It was very straightforward. Easy enough. And she was right, he wasn't mean. Nope.

Oh, what?!

Straight creatures?! Perhaps that's where the smell came from? Something was killed here? Wicked!

Seriously, yes, Treyen will take it seriously because he failed at defending himself.

The boy shook his head, no questions about that, plenty of questions about the chalk, though. And those straight creatures Keefer referred to.

"Excellent. Let us begin. Today's lesson will begin with the standard boiler plate regarding the purpose of this class before we get into the meat of the lesson. And then we'll have some time to apply our lesson. The sooner we get through the discussion, the more time we can spend on practice," Tate eased his weight back into a more relaxed position.

"When we discuss the 'Dark Arts', we are generally referring to a variety of different concepts. While Care of Magical Creatures or Charms or Potions covers one subset of the magical world, this class covers them all. What are some of the areas of the Dark Arts you are already familiar with?"

Arya was sooo intrigued by the chalky line that she almost missed Tate's greeting. Waving back, she grabbed Ivory by the hand and pulled her to the front of the class, slinging her bag off her shoulders as she took a seat.

And that the Headmaster went all military on her. This was not what she was expecting. What happened to buddy Headmaster Tate. She wanted him back, cause they probably would play games with that Tate.

Not being the little protester, and still believing that the lesson would be awesome, she pulled out her quill and parchment and listened to him begin.

"Unforgivable Curses." She said with her hand halfway raised. The girl knew more about them than she wanted to know.

They weren't friends? Aw, that was kinda sad. But Vashti kept her face as straight as possible, listening quietly to the rest of what the Headmaster had to say. Certainly was reasonable and understandable and pretty straightforward, so she had no questions. Yet, at least.

Suddenly noticing Eirian, she gave the girl a smile but said nothing. She wasn't going to talk and potentially lose even more points for Ravenclaw. Nope, wasn't happening. She'd tape her mouth shut if she had to, but thus far she hadn't found a need to do so. Besides, she hadn't at all reached a level to try nonverbal spells, so it wouldn't be so useful when she needed to cast them.

Her mind was wandering. Not good. She forced her brain away from the subject of taping mouths closed and back to the class at hand. Much better use of her time here. Yup.

Hm, areas of the Dark Arts? Well there were certainly a few obvious ones that came to mind. Raising her hand, Vashti said, "There are the Unforgivable Curses, Professor." Definitely Dark magic. For obvious reasons.

Jayce allowed his eyes to wander around the room, recognizing a few people from classes last year, and a couple he had met at parties. Oh, and there was Neptune. Who had.. Wait. What? She.. she just blew him a kiss? He stared at her bewildered before returning to his wander. Soon enough, he found Eiri. She was late. Well, compared to him she was. He threw a smirk in her direction before allowing his eyes to return back to the headmaster.

Wow. The headmaster surely didn't beat around the bush. His words were kind of scary, but truthful, yes? After a moment of silence, he realized the headmaster had paused to allow people to leave. Jay turned around in his seat, looking for any sights of movement. Not seeing anyway, he turned back to the front and listened to the rest of the speech or rather, he waited for class to truly begin.

Keefer raised his hand. "Curses, Professor?"

Lara was listening to thr professor very carefuly she like this subject so she wanted to catch every word the professor says, but obviously he hasn't started yet.
She was holding her quill tightly in case she had to write something down.And she was wondering what can students ask or it was just a thing to be said so she nods waiting to start the lesson.

This was interesting. Very interesting.

Danika was simply curious to hear what Hogwarts had to say, because...well, in Durmstrang they were pretty familiar with the Dark Arts themselves. And Headmaster Tate should know that already, of course.

Pam put her book down as class begun. She looked at him curiously. She didn't raise, her hand, for she was never told anything, but she was very curious as to what there was to learn

Esme raised her hand, if she was stuck here she may as well participate. "Sir, there are Unforgivable Curses, They're the darkest type of magic, I think. For example the Imperious Curse, where the Dark witch or wizard takes control of a person completely and turns them into a sort of puppet almost."

Esme could have gone on to describe the other curses but she thought that someone else might want to. Besides, she didn't want to sound like a know-it-all.

As he listened to the Headmaster's words, Josh busied himself by drawing something on the desk with his quill. Hmm maybe he could draw a lion. Rawr! Or maybe a dragon and show it to Evelyn. There was no doubt she'd like it since she loved dragons. But what use would be a dragon on a desk would be of? He did not know. So he only did a few scratches and dropped the quill in order to...

Answer a question..

Quickly raising his hand, he stood up ''Is not anything magical aimed for a bad intention considered dark magic, sir?''

Iris listened to Headteacher Tate... What areas of DADA was she familiar with?

Um... Very little, to be perfectly honest. THIIIIINK Iris, THINK! Raising her hand nervously, Iris spoke up. "Um... Well, I'm familiar with some of the creatures that people consider to be "Dark" ... Like Kappas and Grindilows..." Heh... Okay, so they weren't the DARKEST of creatures... But they were still taught in this class. "I've also read alot about Dementors and Werewolves." So they're interesting? It's not wrong to read about school stuff for light reading, was it?

Eirian, now situated amongst her friends, simply listened, her quill dancing about the page as she decorated where her notes were to be. There wasn't much to do yet, so she'd let others answer for her. She'd wait for the more interesting questions... Yes. That was it.

Selena scribbled everything that they were saying into her notebook. She thought about it. Forms of the dark arts...? "Necromancy, sir?" she offered as she raised her hand. That was dark right? They were, after all, raising the dead. For some reason, she didn't want to get a wrong answer in this class... he seemed like a strict professor. Eep.

Brittany didnt now anything about DADA having grown up in the muggle world so she just sat and listened intently soaking up any information she could

raising his hand "Poisons "

Treyen raised his hand, "Not 'Dark Arts, but I'm familiar with a couple Dark Creatures" he nodded, yes, he'd read Gilderoy's books, you see. ;)

Eben looked around as various people answered the question of the Professor's. He knew of the Unforgivable Curses as some of the students had suggested, including that of Esme Lennox. Grr. All other spells had to deal with the taking care of magical creatures. And none of that had been of Dark Magic.

And so he stayed silent, waiting just to take notes of other spells that his peers would suggest.

Cosette sat by herself, giving herself all the more reason to think everything out easier. She didn't need any young children stifling up her creative thinking. After listening to the other students and thinking on her own accord, she raised a slender hand up in the air, ready to stake her own thoughts on the question.

"The Dark Arts is a vast range of things," she began, clearing her throat. "Besides dark creatures, there are dark objects. Magic itself can only be dark if the witch or wizard casting the spell, wields it with malicious content. That is how it becomes dark." That is what was so different between good and evil. They were the same spells, it was just who was casting it and what they were willing to do with the spell. Smiling, she put her hand down.

Dark arts she was already familiar with. What have they talked about in passed lessons? Actually, just the word ‘talk’ made her remember the lesson in which Lawson had taught; the one where the professor didn’t seem to have his wand on him so all they did was…talk. Meh. Nevermind, she didn’t want to answer that. "What about artifacts, professor? Such as things like…books, or rings. While not necessarily dark items in general, they could be used for the dark arts."

Poisons, dark creatures, and everything else in between.... strangely reminded her of professor Lafay. Would she get marked off if she said the Professor's name? Hmm, yea, probably. Not that she hated the professor or anything, but...yeaaaa. Maybe she'll ask Destiny if this class reminded her of anybody. Hehe.

Enya smiled and winked at Michael then sat, waiting for class to begin. She was excited about her first class. She raised her hand. "Dark creatures and Horcruxes sir."

Jacob raised his hand excitedly. "Ooh... OOOH!" he said streching his arm "I Know!" he finally put his hand down... and a blank look crossed his face. "...I forgot." hmmm... well thats a bad start to the year ahead. Great he looked like a complete idiot. "like... dark stuff?" great that made him look dumber... Where was Lainey when he needed her!

Marie sat there staring at listening to Sir Hottie as he started the class. Thinking back to the things she had learned in previous years she raised her hand. "Sir, dark creatures is something we learned about. We learned that dark creatures are the physical embodiment of evil and dark magic. They do not hurt or kill their victims for food or to reproduce, they do it because they are mean and nasty creatures that are contolled by dark magic. Dark creatures are controlled by dark wizards and their magic." Wow, that was a mouthful. Hopefully she got that right and didn't just make herself look like a fool in front of this man.

When Sophia stepped into the classroom, her impression was one of revulsion. The floor was a mess and it smelled like old socks. So unclean and untidy. There were cobwebs all over this castle! Oh well. At least her bed and things were neat...

When instructed to do so my the professor/headmaster, Sophia got her parchment and quill from her well-organized bag and placed them, just so, in front of her. Then, she got out her pink wire-framed glasses, cleaned the lenses the way Daddy taught her (with a handkerchief specifically for that purpose and given to her from her father's own personal stash of eyewear-wiping handkerchiefs), and finally placed them on the tip of her nose so she could see the professor over the top of them, and the parchment in front of her through the lenses.

She had to admit to being worried when she entered the untidy classroom, but the professor's posture alleviated most of those fears. Here was a proper wizard with proper poise and he would be a great teacher.... Not that she didn't think untidy and crazy Aunt Lainey hadn't made a great teacher... It's just the proper appearance tended to put your mind at rest.

Sophia raised her hand at that question. She was familiar with lots. Sort of. "My mum and aunt were an aurors and they fight against the dark arts."

Raiden paused before raising his hand, eyes flicking around to those around him that were answering.

"Spells are the most thought of, sir, at least I'd think. Everyone knows about the Unforgivables, and there's curses that are almost as bad but somehow still legal." He shrugged. "And like others have mentioned, we've dealt into Dark Creatures as well. Not heavily, but... well kappas, and boggarts and stuff like that. Some of us had a shot at dementors too, a few terms ago."

They'd also dealt with their insane potions professor who, while not a Dark Witch by any extent, certainly qualified for misuse of magic in detrimental ways and magical creatures. Insanity definitely should have qualified people for checks into their activities. Definitely.

Brant raised his hand "Sir, I've seen a few dark arts." he said while remembering last term. While lowering his head.

"I know mostly of Dark Creatures." Eben added in, remembering certain trips where his parents wouldn't let him observe what they were doing while they worked.

That's he was most interested in and why he wanted to go into that field later on in life.

Riley sat quietly in the back of the class thinking hard about what this Professor would classify as being 'dark' magic. Did he mean strickly the Unforgivables or would all of the bad spells count. "Professor would you say any spells used intentially to harm someone severely could be considered dark magic, not just the Unforgivables. But ones that could leave unhealable scars and such?" Riley said looking around innocently.

That had nothing to do with him....no way. He absent mindedly scratched the top of his led through his dark grey jeans.

Lyra walked in a few minutes before the professor started the lesson. She stopped at the door for only a second, long enough to take in where everyone was sitting, and the odd chalk on the floor. Lyra saw a small girl about her own age sitting alone and decided that was where she should sit. Lyra walked across the room looking as if she didn't care if she stepped on and smudged the chalk - she didn't smudge it, that was disrespectful, but she didn't make it look like she was minding the chalk. She took note of the professor at the front of the room, but said nothing to him. He had enough greetings from the rest of the class, and a little bit more than greetings from two rather lovestruck looking girls at the front.

Lyra sat down next to the girl reading and took out her parchment and quill and listened to all the answers the other students were providing. She had quite a few more things in mind to add to the conversation, but Lyra had decided she would keep quiet and as reserved from class discussions as possible. At least until she had gotten used to speaking to people without insulting them.

Pam nodded to the girl who sat next to her. She put down her book, and took out her pen and quill. She loved her fancy purple feather quill. Anyways she started writing down what others said in little bullets.

From here on out, latecomers are LATE.
 

"Yes, that's certainly a big one," Tate agreed.

"And those are a good example of the curses," Tate nodded. "I'm sure we'll hear the other two, because the Unforgivables are the most obvious and first thought of, when we consider Dark spells."

"Ah, good point. If we're developing a general definition of Dark magics, then that's an excellent place to start. With bad intentions."

"That's an excellent one, actually. Dark Creatures are an important area in the Dark Arts. I notice that you're dismissive of kappas and grindylows, but they're dangerous to the uninformed," Tate nodded.

Oh, the Bott. "And the Cruciatus is another one of the Curses," Tate gave another nod and tried to avoid looking at the girl. Sparkly. "I wouldn't pin too much on Professor Duskurk. He had... his own motives."

"Hmm. That one is trickier. The Department of Mysteries would tell you that bringing someone back to life is impossible, or that it was classified. Unless you mean the spells to make Inferi?"

"Yes," Tate agreed quietly. "The Cruciatus is... impossible to describe, but extremely painful is a start."

"Is a poison in and of itself Dark? Or are we circling back around to intentions?" Anyone was free to answer that question.

"Now, Mr. Lockhart, I would argue that Dark Creatures certainly DO involve the Dark Arts. They're one and the same," Tate responded.

"So your definition of the Dark Arts would be... anything intended maliciously? If I use Wingardium Leviosa to drop a book on your head, am I a Dark Wizard?"

"Thank you for expanding our working definition. If I understand what you're saying... Dark Arts are magics that do harm? Or is it deeper than that?"

"Excellent point. Dark Wizards can imbue an item with Dark magic, creating an artifact. An enormous area of study that I have always found very interesting."

"And what is a horcrux, Miss Finnigan?"

Dark stuff? Yup. Sure. Tate gestured at the boy. "I'll come back to you."

"That is an excellent and concise definition of a Dark creature. Thank you very much," Tate smiled at the girl. He hoped everyone made a point of writing all that down.

He eyed the little Slytherin. "Yes, Aurors are specifically tasked with hunting Dark Wizards. You'll bring a unique perspective to the class."

"It IS strange, isn't it? There's a broad spectrum of Dark spells, yet only a few of them are considered completely illegal. Just a bit less dangerous, and the spell isn't illegal. What makes an Unforgiveable so BAD?"

"That's an interesting question, and it's one I'll let your classmates answer. Is someone a Dark Wizard if they merely create a Dark Creature or develop a new Dark Spell? Can you even do either of those things without being a Dark Wizard?"

Pam raised her hand. "Wouldn't you be a dark wizard or witch if you had dark intentions and a dark heart? Like you wanted to kill someone so badly it overcame you?"