Quote:

Originally Posted by Hera

Seren was her usual excitable self as she made her way to the Great Hall. Having hidden out in the Staff Room for the past couple of hours in an effort to avoid the weather. Besides, she had some reading to catch up on.

Heals clicking, Seren reached her seat on the dais, and noticed there were new additions to their party. "... Hello!" she chirped, all smiles. "That's a lovely brooch," she added to the red head.

"Hello," Annie greeted the Herbology woman, though she was on her guard because, as she saw it, Seren Bentley was sitting in HER spot. The woman did win approval points, however, as she complimented Annie on her brooch.

"Oh! Why thank you," her hand fluttered to the accessory instinctively. "It's a little momento from Egypt, where I used to teach." And... now she supposed she could return the compliment. "I love your... shoes," she offered with a nod. Annie quite liked that cross strap style.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Coming up to the staff dais he shot a warm smile in the directions of all the new additions to the staff. "Good evening!" His eyes rested on the red head. "Beautiful brooch." he commented in passing.

Was the red head the new headmistress?[/B]

And this was the... librarian, no? Leobald Kitridge, if she remembered his name correctly. Well look at that, he wasn't bald at all.

"Thank you, Mr. Kitridge," Anastasia acknowledge him, showing that she had CLEARLY gone over the staff files Tate had left behind. "How is the library looking? Ready for student studies?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tristan Christiansen

Entering in a little tardy, Tristan took his seat. He was a very busy man, after all, they were lucky he'd found the time to attend such a frivoulous event. He reached over and pulled the pitcher of what looked like water and huffling a little, poured himself a glass. His eyes wandered the table, and he saw the stunning redhead he'd agreed to return to teach for. He nodded in her direction. Gingers always stick together.

Her eyes drifted down the table as he waited for the librarian's reply, noting who was here and who was tardy. Anastasia watched as Mr. Christiansen slipped into his seat and returned his nod with a knowing one of her own.

It was lovely having another redhead on staff, wasn't it? They were such good-looking people.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marion Burbage

Is simply had been aaaaaaaaaaaaages since Marion had stepped foot in these charming halls and heard the clicking and clanking of her heels on the stone floors. Of course now, instead of school shoes, she wore rather fancy shoes of a deep purple that stood out against her long lilac skirt. Perhaps she should have shown a bit more of her former house spirit and worn something in brilliant marigold, but no matter. There would be plenty of time for that.

"Hellooooooooo dears," she sang as she made her way towards her seat and sat down. This was her seat, wasn't it? Turning to her left, Marion noticed she was seated next to a blonde woman in a red dress and she inclined her head in greeting. "Evening darling, Marion Burbage."

Annie would recognize that voice anywhere. Her head swiveled back the other way as she spotted Marion sliding into the Healer's seat. "Mrs. Burbage, dear, you're down at the other end of the table, near Mr. Christiansen." The other ginger. "Thank you again for making it to Hogwarts this term. My father and I greatly appreciate it."

Bless her old head for forgetting where Astronomy professors sat. Hopefully... the others swarming up to the table now wouldn't be so hard on her....

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"Some things never change, do they?" Cassandra took the seat that Anastasia had pointed out, although her eyes never left the ceiling overhead and the tapestries and the students entering the Great Hall (looking rather rougher than she remembered). My, it brought back so many memories.

Oh, oh! Cassandra took the napkin off the table and dabbed at her eyes as she spotted the first years lining up for the Sorting... with her daughter lurking in the middle of the line and trying not to look half a head taller than those around her. What a special moment, to see one's own child get sorted.

"Mhmmm," Anastasia acknowledged the former Headmistress beside her. She smiled a bit to see the woman getting emotional over her daughter's Sorting (though admittedly, seeing the girl tower over all her peers was more humorous than moving) and hoped that one day, she'd be able to see David get Sorted too.

"I see Genevieve is a Ravenclaw just like you. Congratulations."

Quote:

Originally Posted by DanialRadFAN01

There she was...the Bunbury.

Pushing a flyaway bang behind her ear Calista walked directly to the woman who she most nervous about meeting tonight. One would typically be a tad hesitant to meet the cousin of an ex boyfriend with whom you stole from and sort of used your Seeing ability to manipulate him into a relationship. At least Callie felt bad now about it and she was worried Indigo would have told her now Boss. Awkward.

"Good evening Headmistress Truebridge. I'm Calista Elwood, Divination. You're brooch is quite lovely." Callie had always loved accessories as one could tell with a quick look at her. She began to twist one of her bracelets nervously, a smile all the while present on her lips. Just play it cool she might not know about all that.

"Oh! Hello!" Anastasia nearly knocked over her empty water goblet as someone suddenly popped up near her elbow. She took in the woman's appearance with her usual head-to-toe analysis, though her face remained neutral for once. She wasn't sure what to think of the lady in orange, though she did approve of her bracelets and whatnot. It was definitely a look that matched her subject.

"Thank you, Calista. I hope you've Seen great things for Hogwarts this year." A slight evil smile curved upward on the redhead's lips as she offered her hand for the professor to shake....

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harold Lagerty

And lastly they had their new hire, Mrs. Truebridge, the one he had been pushing for ever since he saw her application--she was an educator after all and a former Professor and alumni of the School no less! "Good Evening Headmistress." he took her hand and planted a polite kiss on it. "I'm very sorry about your ride on the Express this afternoon, terrible way to start a term I would say. But it is great to see you here safe and sound."

...but the hand was promptly swept away by the handsome man to her left. "Mr. Lagerty, good evening to you as well!" Annie nearly blushed at the forwardness of his hand kiss, but really, she deserved such queen-like treatment. She wouldn't be complaining about that especially not to Ethan.

"Thank you for your condolences... and your welcome." Her smile turned down just slightly at the edges as she recalled the train ride. "However, I prefer to think of the earlier difficulties with transportation as nothing more than a small bump in the road. I'm sure the rest of this school year will be a wonderful, educational adventure for everyone at Hogwarts."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lezleighd

Gemma smiled at the Headmistress, even more nervous then when thinking about BOGs at the table...she hadn't been close with the old Headmaster, but they had an understanding that was amiable...she was worried about a new person on staff, but she did notice something she instantly liked...the woman had style!

She leaned forward a little bit and nodded her head slightly, "Welcome back to Hoggy Warts, Headmistress..." she said raising her glass to toast the new fearless leader....

"Oh, thank you!" Annie sounded surprised at the toast from the Muggle Studies professor, but at really, she was pleased. "It's Mrs. Cerulean, isn't it?" Was the woman married? She couldn't recall. Worth a guess though.

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexandraRamos

Since he was new to this school, he knew that the first thing he needed to do was introduce himself to the teachers the moment he first saw them, as long as it was possible.
After all, it is extremely important to know your teachers. If you become good friends with them, they could really help you out with a lot of things.

Making his way up to the staff table from the Slytherin one, Ace introduced himself first to the lady in the biggest chair, obviously the headmistress. That was the most important. He could have introduced himself at large, raising his voice enough to allow every teacher to hear, as some people he knows would have done. But that is not at all Ace's style. He thought it was much more important to meet every teacher individually and make a better impression that way.

Walking with confidence, Ace made sure to catch her in the split second of time where she wasn't talking to anyone.

"Hello, Headmistress! You don't know me, I am new to Hogwarts but I thought I should introduce myself since I am going to be attending your school for the next year or so."

Holding out his hand for her to shake, he gave her his best smile - charming, engaging and quite irresistible. "My name is Alastair Dooley, though mostly everybody calls me Ace. It is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance and also a big honor to be attending your school."

Stepping back, he gave her a polite nod. "You are a busy woman, I won't take up too much of your time. Thank you very much and I hope you have as great a year as I surely will."

Now Anastasia Truebridge had never really approved of students harassing the staff at their table, not during breakfast, not during lunch, and never during a dinner like a feast. But the young man who was standing before her now was... somewhat on the okay side. He just had manner. She liked manners.

And compliments.

"Well well, Mr. Dooley," she shook his hand firmly, finding herself smiling for some reason. The boy was infectious, look at that. A regular politician. "Thank you for the introduction, it was very nice of you to... travel all the way up here." From whichever table he had come from. "But, if I may, could you please return to your seat? I am going to be making the speech soon and would like the dais free from students before I speak."

Even if the students were charming.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roselyn

It seemed no matter how hard she tried, Medea found herself never able to be one of the first to arrive at the feast. Although this time she blamed it on Erma. That cat kept rubbing on her, making her clothes all furry. Alas, fur free, heels clicking on the ground, and with an utmost positive attitude, Medea entered the Great Hall, gaze automatically locating the staff table. Definitely not one of the first.

Although she did spy that there were a couple more chairs than usual, as were the good handful of people she didn't know, Headmistress included. The mood of the Great Hall didn't go unnoticed however. It was...different. Certainly the brewing storm hadn't gotten the students all riled up had it? Nothing like the Hogwarts feast that couldn't cheer them up!

Stepping up to the staff table, she nodded and gave her pleasant "good evenings" to those she passed by before taking her seat between the Charms and Divination professors. Goodness, there were a lot of new professors.
Medea did not take long to glance to her left instead where she knew there'd be a lot less scowl-age. Even if William, Waylon, and Oliver were gone, at least Callie was still here. "Long time no see." she said in a rather, NORMAL, accent, not being able to help but beam a little as she did so. It took her some practice, but she'd been able to actually sound somewhat 'normal' if she really thought about it.

Callie decided that she woudl go ahead and get herself some pumpkin juice while she waited for the Headmistress to make her speech and for the food to arrive. When she turned forward in her chair and leaned forward to pour the sweet juice from it's pitcher she caught sight of a body occupying the seat beside her, Medea's seat.

The blonde instictively closed her eyes for a moment as she turned, hoping to Merlin that her other friend hadn't gone off and quit her post over the summer (since Callie had been pretty unreachable over the break) but when the woman spoke Elwood's eyes shot open and her mouth broke into a wide smile.

"Media, you've been practicing!" The Divination Professor squeeled excitedly to her best friend and grabbed her into a quick little hug. When she pulled back her eyes naturally went to the brunette's outfit. "And don't you look pretty tonight? Glad to be back?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by The1HBIC

Cece had seriously contemplated just skipping the Opening Feast altogether this term but in the end decided she best make an appearance. After all, they did have a new headmistress and there were members from the Board of Governors there. It probably wouldn't look so good if one of the staff members didn't show up. Besides, she had promised a certain young Slytherin that he would be seeing her soon. She didn't want him to think anything had happened to her... or his broom. Plus she wanted to be there to congratulate her cousin once he got sorted into Slytherin.

After scanning the Slytherin table and not finding either of the boys she was looking for, Cece finally made her way to the staff table where she found...

SPOILER!!: This is MY seat

... Someone sitting in HER seat, and Dash trying to say it was HIS seat.

"Your seat Dash? I do believe the last time we sat at this table, this seat here..." she said pointing to the one the clearly confused woman was sitting in, "...was my seat, not yours. Your seat is over there, on the other side of Seren." This time she pointed to the empty seat between Seren and Leo... where Dash needed to go sit. "Maybe while you're teaching this woman her alphabet, you can learn yours as well." Because the last time Cece checked the alphabet, Healer came before Herbology while History of Magic came after Herbology, meaning Dash needed to move on over to his own seat and this other woman to wherever she landed in the alphabet.

Or, Cece could just go sit at the end of the table next to Hecate since the transfiguration professor wasn't there yet. She was sure the potions mistress wouldn't mind her sitting there for a bit. Then maybe later she would just make her way down the table next to Vanora. They did have a lot of catching up to do after all.

Oh dear.

The Divination Professor had been smiling at Dash as he was talking to the newly hired Astronomy Professor about her mistake but when Cece arrived it looked like the Healer was in no mood to mess around. Callie eyed the poor older woman but couldn't really tell what was being said from that end of the table.

"Evening Cece." She said just loud enough for the other blonde to hear but not really hoping to incite an actual conversation. It seemed they had the nice, chatty people on this side tonight.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

And there was another professor waving down the table. Cassandra waved back with a small smile, although it would, perhaps, have been better to be introduced properly. Perhaps later, after Anastasia's speech.

Oh a wave from Mrs. Branxton, mission accomplished.

Another grin and then Callie sat back in her chair, shoving her face into her goblet. Next step, actually work up the courage to talk to the woman before she left the Castle.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hera

She'd been about to immerse herself in her pumpkin juice again whilst STARING at the Lion table looking for the faces of their new recruits, when a familiar voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
"Callie!" she chimed out of excitement. "Oh that's wonderful! They're not giving you any trouble are they?" Cause you know, teething was one thing, but they rarely grew out of their seedling mentality. Playful blighters they were.

"No trouble at all!" Calista chriped to the Herbology Professor but then spoke again after a short chuckle, "Well actually they did nip at me here and there but other than that, they were just angels. Perfect companions over the break!" They didn't ask her what was wrong and why she was sad...good things to have along with her this past summer.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marion Burbage

"Bonsoir, love," Marion smiled, trying out some of the French that she could remember. How lovely this woman was. Proper introduction and everything. Lovely, siiiiiiiiiiiiiiimply lovely. "Marion Burbage, visiting Astronomy professor."

Before the 70-year-old could act another woman made her appearance - one that was wearing a rather unpleasant expression. "Oh goodness gracious hEAvens me!" All this over a seat? Had it really been THAT long that she had forgotten how professors sat at the opening feast? Then again, she had been far more concerned with the food at the feast when she had been a student than to have paid too much attention to what the professors were doing. "I am sooooooo teeeeeeeeeeeerribly sorry, dear." And she rose out of the seat at once.

She did venture a glance towards the studmuffin before making her towards the other side of the table. "Perhaps we both should find our own seats now, hmmmm?" And an apology for startling her would be much appreciated as well, but that went without saying. Right, Mr. Studmuffin?

"Well it's a pleasure Marion. I can't wait to have another Professor up in the towers with me this term, last term I was all alone up there." Apart from the Ravenclaw and Gryffindor students but she meant adults.

Callie took another sip of her drink, watching over the rim of her goblet as the scene continued to unfold with Cece and Dash. Once the woman began to head towards Elwood's end of the Table she caught the woman's attention again. "This side of the table's better anyways." She said with a wink.

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhoenixRising

The damp weather did not do much to improve Josephina's mood. Though she was grateful that her dwellings were located inside the castle and also that her responsibilities didn't extend to seeing the kids off the train. Which meant she took great care in finalizing some things around her classroom before getting ready for the feast. A feast that she had to look exceptionally presentable for, as a veteran professor, and head house, considering it was the first with the new headmistress. Not to mention if the rumors were true of the Board of Governors dining with them.

Clacking her way down the aisle, she noticed the sorting ceremony had begun and immediately her hazel eyes found her Hufflepuffs, searching for the new ones. And then, her eyes came up to the dais and she frowned; so many chairs. But at least one thing was consistent, which was that her chair was still second from the end.

Oh and Fina had arrived! Callie had gotten to know the Arithmancy Professor fairly well the past term and was glad to see another familiar face among the small sea of new ones seated at the Staff Table. "Evening Fina, that dress looks lovely on you." The woman sure knew how to work her House color.

Quote:

Originally posted by BanaBatGirl
"Oh! Hello!" Anastasia nearly knocked over her empty water goblet as someone suddenly popped up near her elbow. She took in the woman's appearance with her usual head-to-toe analysis, though her face remained neutral for once. She wasn't sure what to think of the lady in orange, though she did approve of her bracelets and whatnot. It was definitely a look that matched her subject.

"Thank you, Calista. I hope you've Seen great things for Hogwarts this year." A slight evil smile curved upward on the redhead's lips as she offered her hand for the professor to shake....

"Hi." Callie said again awkwardly, fully aware of the blue eyes sweeping over her appearance. Gahhh she KNEW she shouldn't have worn the orange dress! What was she THINKING?! The orange totally clashed with the new headmistress's hair!

Ummmm.....

WHAT DID THAT MEAN?!?! "Uh, yeah I hope so." And with that, Callie turned on the spot and headed back to her chair. Freak out to commence in 3...2...1

Mika wanted to thank the Professors and everyone for insuring their safe arrival at Hogwarts. Sure some were slightly damaged but at least nothing horrible had happened right? No one was standing with their head out of the window of the train when the things went down so that they would fall out of it and break everything.

Speaking of falling she was sore from being fallen on - and her arms were tired from carrying the gift bags her mum had sent her with. Chocolates galore. Each of the bags had a small selection of all the other candies - and the cookies her mother had made them.

They just weren't the super-cool rainbow cookies. Those ones were FUN.

Placing the first box infront of the Headmistress she smiled.

"H-hello," she smiled, "we didn't really meet I don't think - well not on a personable basis on the train...I'm Amelia Johanson but you can call me Mika - and this here gift box of sweets there are enough for all the Professors and guests" she smiled.

Oh, she could see everything from where she sat. And she was far less excited as more and more of the Professors walked into the great hall. At least, far less excited as more and more of the female Professors walked into the great hall.

Why hadn't she received the memo that this was a formal start-of-term feast?

Vanora would have dressed more appropriately. Instead of looking like she had just left the barn. Which she had, but that was besides the point. She would have to talk to Cece later about this.

Doing her best to try and look as small as possible by slinking further down into her seat, why did the staff table have to be so high!?, Vanora kept her eyes focused on the sorting. That was, until a hand was being held out to her and she slowly turned her head to find its owner. Only to be taken aback slightly when she found her.

Wow. Her dress was orange. Very nice. But also very orange.

"Thank you!" she smiled, and knowing that she would not get wet from the rain cloud hanging over the head of the woman she was now leaning over, she gave Calista's hand a quick shake. "Vanora Newlin. Care of Magical Creatures." Although, that was probably already known. But she just liked to say it. "I really like your dress." She really did.

And then there was a voice sounding from her other side.

Glancing at the Divination Professor's dress one last time, wondering if she could pull off that color just as well, Vanora turned to the woman in yellow. Such a colorful staff. She really felt out of place. But, there was a smile on her face despite the feeling, and she nodded her head. "That it is." A great view.

For, you know, someone was was dressed the right way.

Which she would have mentioned, if the woman hadn't started talking to herself. Vanora was just going to try and be small once again.

If Cece wasn't in such a foul mood she probably would have smiled at the woman and her reaction here. As it was though she was not having a good night. So a smile she did not get.

Just as she was glancing towards Dash something at the Ravenclaw table caught her attention. "Excuse me but I need to take care of something." Someone at that table had some explaining to do.

My my my my my!

If she had been fifty years younger chances were that Marion's cheeks would have been rosy little roses by now from sheer embarrassment. As it were though, she was more aggravated at having to move from one end of the table aaaaaaaaaaall the way to the other. She wasn't getting any younger!

But the chaaaaaaarming voice of dear little Annie caught her ear and turned her slight frown completely upside down. "Oh yes, I doooooo see it now," she nodded in her sing-song voice once again. "And the pleasure is all mine, dear. You know I would never refuse a request from either you or your father. I doooooo hope that I do not misplace my classroom in the same manner I have misplaced my seat."

Hohohohohoho!

"Do send your father my regards, dear, and that I expect our next tea engagement to be sooner rather than later. Henry is looking forward to it as well."

Now...to find her seat...

Despite her age, Marion did not waddle. No, she gliiiiiiiiiiiided across the dias towards her seat while her heels clanked against the ground until she had arrived back to where she was supposed to be. All alphabetical-like, yes studmuffin? Hmmm?

She glanced over at the charming young woman who had been so polite as to introduce herself WITHOUT being prompted to as she passed. "Why thank you Callista, dear. May I call you Callista?" Of course she could! Without waiting for an answer, the elderly astronomer continued. "We shall siiiiiiiiiiimply have to have a cup of tea or two or three up in the towers."

Venturing a glance back towards the end of the table she had departed from, Marion nodded. Yes, this end was MUCH more polite than that end. "I do believe you are right, dear. Tea later then, yes?"

And off she went.
Marion was just about to sliding into her seat, which was hopefully her's this time, when she simply could not NOT notice the young thing sitting down beside her. Hmm...going alphabetically...that would make her the Care of Magical Creatures professor, would it not?

Looking the young woman up and down with a critical eye, she arched one of her perfectly plucked eyebrows at her. Just because she spent most of her time with creatures did not mean she had to dress like one. "Hmmmmmmmmmmmm..." she said as she now slide into her seat, eyebrow still raised ever so obviously. "Informal means semi-formal, not casual, dear." Which means knee-length dress or skirt and not jeans.

Hmmmmmmmm.
Oh yes, this woman was charming as well. Lovely lovely!

"Simply charmed to meet you, darling," she said, her words rolling off her tongue with an dazzling elegance. "Oh Arithmancy! I did rather enjoy that subject as a student, not as much as Astronomy, naturally, but a fascinating subject nonetheless."

A few students had come to the table by now, earning some more pointed eyebrow raises and Hmmmmmmmmmmms from the woman. When one more appeared, Ravenclaw judging from her robes, Marion leaned over just a bit to whisper to Josephina. "Tell me darling, is this a normal occurrence for Hogwarts students these days to forget their manners and approach the staff table before the Headmistress has given her speech?"

She certainly hoped that there would be better manners in her classroom, or out the door they would go. Out out! Shoo shoo!

Another professor was staring. Hadn't Anastasia warned them to expect the Board of Governors for the feast this evening? Cassandra stared back before recognizing the woman as a former student.

It would make a lesser woman feel quite old.

She waved merrily.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl

"Mhmmm," Anastasia acknowledged the former Headmistress beside her. She smiled a bit to see the woman getting emotional over her daughter's Sorting (though admittedly, seeing the girl tower over all her peers was more humorous than moving) and hoped that one day, she'd be able to see David get Sorted too.

"I see Genevieve is a Ravenclaw just like you. Congratulations."

"She'd have made us all miserable if she was anything else. Her sister is a Ravenclaw too, you know." And she really did think that Anastasia knew that. Probably had memorized most of the seventh years and all the student leaders. The woman was sharp as a porcupine quill.

"Don't let her get away with anything that makes you uncomfortable on account of me or anyone else. It doesn't do her any favors."

It felt like it had taken forever and a day to get here, but finally Sebastian was making his way up to the staff table, soaking wet and giving his wand a vigorous shake. It seemed to have stopped working for some reason. Maybe it was waterlogged after he had to jump into the lake after that kid.

He shook his head but he was chuckling lightly as he walked. Never in a million years had he thought this was how his first day at his first real job was going to be.

Halfway to the staff table and a few sparks emitted from his wand and he gave it another shake. "Come on." he muttered. The last thing he needed was to sit up there amongst his fellow colleagues, dripping water all over the place.

He was almost at the table when he felt a small, faint breeze of warm air surround him and he let a sigh of relief. Things would be alright. Except they weren't because while he managed to get most of himself dried, by the time he got to his chair, his hair and shirt were still a little wet.

Better than nothing he supposed.

Seb's gaze automatically went to the red head sitting in the centre of the table and he gave her an apologetic smile. "Headmistress." he inclined his head and a few drops of water dripped down his face. "My apologies for being late. But just as I got the kids into the boats, the storm started making the trip across the lake a little...hazardous." It seemed to be the theme of the night. "One child fell into the water and I had to go in after him. Hence the reason for my attire." She would forgive him, right? After all they had once been housemates.

He was just about to relax back into his chair when he remembered something else. "Oh and if you could spare a few minutes after the feast, I would like to discuss the events at the station. I have some concerns in regards to some of your Prefects and Captains."

And if she was in agreeance with him then points would be taken. If not then he was going to have a few students helping him fertilize the grounds.

Sophia diverted her eyes to Leobald when he complimented her on her dress. Well yes she knew it was a beautiful dress, her husband bought it for her first night back. He even got the earrings to boot. Leo managed to get a small smile from the woman and a nod of her head."Thank you Leo, it is quite lovely isn't it? You look good too."

How was her summer? Simply wonderful. Her grandchildren had grown so much."It was wonderful. You know Bentley is talking now and Ariana, she's such a bright little witch." And of course Rhea would be having her second biological child in October. Yes family life was good. Her mood was not though."And your summer?"

Hmmm?

Oh..Calista....that rude woman would receive nothing more than a raised eyebrow to acknowledge that she heard her. Besides that she kept to attention directed to Leobald. He was at least not rude and certainly not a fake Seer like this woman.

Hmph..so there you go Calista...snobbed..AGAIN.

And then Medea arrived. Oooh Sophia had something positively brilliant planned to get back at her for that e stunt she pulled in her last charms class. Sophia wasn't one for practical jokes but when the time called for it, she could certainly deliver. "Good evening Professor Ramanos."

Leobald stomach was growling quietly as Dash arrived at the staff dais not exactly looking thrilled at the prospect of a woman sitting in his seat. But wasn’t Dash supposed to sit in the vacant seat on Leo’s left? With the lengthened table to fit the visitors it wasn’t the easiest feat to find your proper place.

"Good evening Dash!" Leo greeted with a polite smile. They had gone to school together in their youth’s but that was about it. They weren’t buddies or even good acquaintances but this new term could change that possibly?

Calista!!

Catching the blond divination professor’s eye Leo waved back. "My summer was good; I visited Spain and visited my parents. You should come by my office later. I have a new book you might like." It wasn’t anything special, just a book which Leo had received in the latest book shipment.

Hopefully Callie would enjoy it.



Seriously?

First Dash and now Cecelia arrived claiming that the senior looking madam was in fact sitting in her seat and not Dash’s. Leo was so not going to get into the middle of this. Three cooks were enough or in this case staffers were enough. The unfamiliar woman was a staffer, yes? Shrugging he fired off a warm welcome smile in Cece’s direction. "Evening, Cece, you look lovely tonight."

Eh? Seren response seemed a little off. Didn’t women generally love compliments? Smiling broadly just the same Leobald nodded "I did. I went to Spain and visited my parents. Was your summer good Seren?" If only he had known the herbology professor a little closer then he could have asked what was wrong because clearly something was wrong even though Seren had a cheery façade. Well not everyone could be super happy or she could be just nervous by the prominent visitor’s just like Leo was.



Leo couldn’t help but smile broadly at the woman even though being called dear was something he only expected from his mother. "Oh really, what house were you sorted into? I was a Ravenclaw when I went here some time ago now." The memories.

Putting a hand to his head Leo apologized."Forgive my poor manners, Marion. I’m Leobald Kitridge, the school librarian. If you ever need a book I’d be more than happy to assist." Shaking her extended hand he asked "Are you the new Astronomy professor?"Or Comc professor or even groundskeeper? It was possible give the number of people who had left after last term.

Blushing slightly Leobald looked at the skin of his hand momentarily before raising his gaze to meet Gemma’s. "Actually yes, I vacationed in Spain for a few weeks. I guess it shows. I feared I’d become reddish from all the sun exposure to be honest that’s how my skin usually reacts."

"I’ve extended the Muggle section of the library a bit over the summer. You should come have a look at it. It seemed popular amongst the students so I’ve added a few new books to the selection." Mainly muggle comics and animal books but it was something.

He was impressed. Leo had to admit. After just a few staff meetings the new headmistress already remembered his name. Was that a good or a bad thing? He hoped for the former as he responded excitedly. "It’s looking splendid Headmistress. I’m glad you granted my wish of putting in some new furniture. The new sitting groups and book shelves I’m sure will be appreciated by the students and will aid them in their studies." Who wouldn’t like the new furniture?



Leobald was waiting for the speech since there would be no food until Mrs Truebridge gave the traditional ‘welcome speech’ starting to play with the cutlery to make the time pass seemed like a tempting endeavor instead of thinking of food when a dripping man made his way onto the staff dais taking the seat on the left of Seren.

Waving at the man to get his attention Leo called over "Evening, I guess you’re the new groundskeeper? I’m Leobald Kitridge the librarian. Did the kids make it across the lake before the storm hit?" By the looks of the man, probably not.



One point to him!!

Leo had managed to make Sophia smile even if it had been a small one at that. Anything was better than that unbefitting scowl that traced his friend's features upon arrival. Beaming he murmured. "Thank you. The robes are new."

His beam turned into a broad smile as Sophia spoke of her grand children. "How old are Bentley and Ariana now? Will Ariana soon be within these walls studying charms spells for you?"

Lainey arrived to the Great Hall at last. She was wet, dripping even, and was dragging a trunk along behind her. The metal feet of the trunk made ear-splitting screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeches with every inch she moved, but the VP didn't seem to hear it.

Drip. Step. Drip. Step.

She paused at the Ravenclaw table to see if those kids from the Food Trolley were Ravenclaws or hat munchers, then carried on towards the table.

Drip drop. Step. Drip drop step screeeeeeeeeech.

Because most everyone was there, and it was too tempting not to, Lainey BOPPED everyone's head down the line of present Professors. Like duck, duck, goose Staff Table style. BOP. BOP. BOP. BOP.

FINALLY, the soppy ex-professors, ex-auror, current VP of BoG arrived at her chair. Beside Rae. Sup, Rae.

She lined the trunk up with the back of her assigned and usual chair by Rae, climbed on top of it, then went over the TOP of her high back chair to take her seat.

"Well. I lost my food." So that sucked.

Isabelle had been late leaving home today. Scarlet had decided to play up and a cuddle from mum was the only thing to get her to sleep. But finally she'd managed to get going, having given Alastair a goodbye kiss, and stepping out in to the cold. When it promptly started raining. So Issy had turned up at the castle looking like a drowned rat. For the last 30 minutes she'd been in her office drying herself off and changing into the clothes she'd brought along to wear to the feast. Just as well she had considering she didn't really have the time to dry everything out. Her hair would have to do.

So it was with a quickened step that she entered the Great Hall and and rushed towards the staff table, giving the kids she passed a smile. Following on just behind a face she vaguely recognised, but the name escaped her. Although seeing how the woman acted upon her arrival at the table, Issy was glad she hadn't got there first. Climbing over the back of her chair, head bopping? Goodness.

She herself climbed the steps slowly, checking her seat was still in the same place, what with all the new people now there. Speaking of which, best to say hello. "Good evening!" she called out down to the unfamiliar faces, the red head in Tate's old chair presumably the new Headmistress. "Welcome to Hogwarts!" And then there was Hecate and Leo - people she knew and could perhaps have a conversation with. Although you never could tell with Hecate.

"Terrible weather, isn't it?" Isabelle commented to them as she slid into her seat and straightened out her jacket.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DanialRadFAN01

"Hi." Callie said again awkwardly, fully aware of the blue eyes sweeping over her appearance. Gahhh she KNEW she shouldn't have worn the orange dress! What was she THINKING?! The orange totally clashed with the new headmistress's hair!

Ummmm.....

WHAT DID THAT MEAN?!?! "Uh, yeah I hope so." And with that, Callie turned on the spot and headed back to her chair. Freak out to commence in 3...2...1

Anastasia's cat-like grin only widened as the Divination professor seemed to turn a shade of white usually only seen in ghosts. Heheh. She hadn't even said anything, had she? Was the woman so unsure in her "divine gifts" that she couldn't even take a joke?

"We'll chat later, I'm sure, Ms. Elwood." And the Bunz watched as the blonde scurried back to her seat like an admonished puppy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by McFeisty

Mika wanted to thank the Professors and everyone for insuring their safe arrival at Hogwarts. Sure some were slightly damaged but at least nothing horrible had happened right? No one was standing with their head out of the window of the train when the things went down so that they would fall out of it and break everything.

Speaking of falling she was sore from being fallen on - and her arms were tired from carrying the gift bags her mum had sent her with. Chocolates galore. Each of the bags had a small selection of all the other candies - and the cookies her mother had made them.

They just weren't the super-cool rainbow cookies. Those ones were FUN.

Placing the first box infront of the Headmistress she smiled.

"H-hello," she smiled, "we didn't really meet I don't think - well not on a personable basis on the train...I'm Amelia Johanson but you can call me Mika - and this here gift box of sweets there are enough for all the Professors and guests" she smiled.

Well well. Students just didn't get the memo about not approaching the staff table, did they?

"Looks like we'll need to work on intimidating the students more," the redhead loudly commented to the man seated at her left. Yes, Hops, shoo these children away from her table. How was she ever going to eat dinner with these bug-eyed babies staring at her all night?

Bunz wasn't even going to be TEMPTED by the heavy package of chocolates this one had brought her. SHE WOULD NOT BE BOUGHT. Not yet, anyway. It was too early in the term.

"Amelia, dear," the redhead finally greeted the girl, though she was not at all returning the child's smile, "thank you for the gift, but PLEASE, I must insist that you return to your seat this instant. I have a speech to give before we can all eat. And do me a favor, dear, will you?" The Headmistress moved the package from the table to the floor beside her chair. "Tell your Housemates to not come up here either. Not until the feast is ending. THANK YOU."

Buh-bye.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Destiny

Oh, she could see everything from where she sat. And she was far less excited as more and more of the Professors walked into the great hall. At least, far less excited as more and more of the female Professors walked into the great hall.

Why hadn't she received the memo that this was a formal start-of-term feast?

Vanora would have dressed more appropriately. Instead of looking like she had just left the barn. Which she had, but that was besides the point. She would have to talk to Cece later about this.

Bunz's gaze drifted away from the little girl at the table and moved on down the table, toward the woman in the Care of Magical Creatures spot. Ugh, in all her time at Hogwarts, that seat had ALWAYS been occupied by someone who didn't know how to dress. First it has been Iliana, now it was.... Vanora? Was it?

What a weird name for a weird-dressing woman. The redhead wrinkled her nose at the professor's attire and shook her head, subtly sending the message that her outfit was not appropriate for a feast, and then turned back toward the other end of the table.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marion Burbage

My my my my my!

If she had been fifty years younger chances were that Marion's cheeks would have been rosy little roses by now from sheer embarrassment. As it were though, she was more aggravated at having to move from one end of the table aaaaaaaaaaall the way to the other. She wasn't getting any younger!

But the chaaaaaaarming voice of dear little Annie caught her ear and turned her slight frown completely upside down. "Oh yes, I doooooo see it now," she nodded in her sing-song voice once again. "And the pleasure is all mine, dear. You know I would never refuse a request from either you or your father. I doooooo hope that I do not misplace my classroom in the same manner I have misplaced my seat."

Hohohohohoho!

"Do send your father my regards, dear, and that I expect our next tea engagement to be sooner rather than later. Henry is looking forward to it as well."

Now...to find her seat...

Annie smiled politely as Marion passed by on her way to her correct seat. "Yes, of course, Mrs. Burbage, I'll be sure to do just that." She laughed lightly at the woman's seeming forgetfulness and nodded again. "Will do. Enjoy the rest of the feast now."

She'd be sure to stop by her tower later this week and give her a proper welcome and maybe she'd share some of those chocolates with her...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"She'd have made us all miserable if she was anything else. Her sister is a Ravenclaw too, you know." And she really did think that Anastasia knew that. Probably had memorized most of the seventh years and all the student leaders. The woman was sharp as a porcupine quill.

"Don't let her get away with anything that makes you uncomfortable on account of me or anyone else. It doesn't do her any favors."

"She is, I know," Annie continued the conversation with Rae. "I certainly hope she wouldn't expect any special treatment, even if she IS the daughter of two of Hogwarts' greatest legends."

There, nothing wrong with a bit of flattery for Mrs. Branxton. "Do you think I should give my speech now?" the redhead worried a bit as she saw students still taking their seats. Merlin, why were they all so WET?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mell

It felt like it had taken forever and a day to get here, but finally Sebastian was making his way up to the staff table, soaking wet and giving his wand a vigorous shake. It seemed to have stopped working for some reason. Maybe it was waterlogged after he had to jump into the lake after that kid.

He shook his head but he was chuckling lightly as he walked. Never in a million years had he thought this was how his first day at his first real job was going to be.

Halfway to the staff table and a few sparks emitted from his wand and he gave it another shake. "Come on." he muttered. The last thing he needed was to sit up there amongst his fellow colleagues, dripping water all over the place.

He was almost at the table when he felt a small, faint breeze of warm air surround him and he let a sigh of relief. Things would be alright. Except they weren't because while he managed to get most of himself dried, by the time he got to his chair, his hair and shirt were still a little wet.

Better than nothing he supposed.

Seb's gaze automatically went to the red head sitting in the centre of the table and he gave her an apologetic smile. "Headmistress." he inclined his head and a few drops of water dripped down his face. "My apologies for being late. But just as I got the kids into the boats, the storm started making the trip across the lake a little...hazardous." It seemed to be the theme of the night. "One child fell into the water and I had to go in after him. Hence the reason for my attire." She would forgive him, right? After all they had once been housemates.

He was just about to relax back into his chair when he remembered something else. "Oh and if you could spare a few minutes after the feast, I would like to discuss the events at the station. I have some concerns in regards to some of your Prefects and Captains."

And if she was in agreeance with him then points would be taken. If not then he was going to have a few students helping him fertilize the grounds.

Oh! Mr. Gibbins was here! At last! Now where was Vindictus? Almost all of her staff had made it except for the second-most-important one... the most important being herself, of course.

Well then, at least Sebastian had an explanation for his attire. Annie took her time checking him out from head to toe, and noted that he had, at least, attempted to dry of. "Thank you for saving that student, I suppose," she smiled warmly. "Of course we can speak after the feast! I do appreciate your help with the first years."

She was concerned, too, that the Prefects who were returning were not up-to-scratch... Merlin knew Tate had judgment issues... he'd married that Avalon tart, after all...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

He was impressed. Leo had to admit. After just a few staff meetings the new headmistress already remembered his name. Was that a good or a bad thing? He hoped for the former as he responded excitedly. "It’s looking splendid Headmistress. I’m glad you granted my wish of putting in some new furniture. The new sitting groups and book shelves I’m sure will be appreciated by the students and will aid them in their studies." Who wouldn’t like the new furniture?

"Oh you're welcome," Annie waved a little hand toward the librarian. It had been no trouble, really, to get the Board to agree to spend money on books. Er, that's what she'd said the funding was going towards, anyway. Books, furniture... it was all the same. Besides, if the furniture got worn out, it could always be held up with books later. And vice versa, right?

Anyway. "I do hope it motivates them all to study more." She nodded firmly before her attention was taken by some LOUD newcomer to the Great Hall.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mad Eye Touz

Lainey arrived to the Great Hall at last. She was wet, dripping even, and was dragging a trunk along behind her. The metal feet of the trunk made ear-splitting screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeches with every inch she moved, but the VP didn't seem to hear it.

Drip. Step. Drip. Step.

She paused at the Ravenclaw table to see if those kids from the Food Trolley were Ravenclaws or hat munchers, then carried on towards the table.

Drip drop. Step. Drip drop step screeeeeeeeeech.

Because most everyone was there, and it was too tempting not to, Lainey BOPPED everyone's head down the line of present Professors. Like duck, duck, goose Staff Table style. BOP. BOP. BOP. BOP.

FINALLY, the soppy ex-professors, ex-auror, current VP of BoG arrived at her chair. Beside Rae. Sup, Rae.

She lined the trunk up with the back of her assigned and usual chair by Rae, climbed on top of it, then went over the TOP of her high back chair to take her seat.

"Well. I lost my food." So that sucked.

Ducking, Anastasia anticipated the BOP to her head and just avoided it. Good thing she'd cast a protective charm over her hair earlier just in case, right?

"So nice of you to join us, Professor Lainey," the redhead commented evenly. She didn't even have to flick her eyes over the odd woman to know that she'd made her version of an arrival, even if it did seem more like Mad Eye Moody than anything. "Now that you're here...."

She could give the speech, yes?

ooc: Ian Amoroso and Hecate Lafay


"You've gotta be runes, mate. Hello." Ian said and waved in the man's general direction.

"Nice to meet you madam." Ian said looking at the older lady.


"You must be so proud." Ian said to Rae-Branxton, "I understand you were a RAvenclaw as well?"

That must have been the former Headmistress' daughter... in Ravenclaw. Hecate looked at Ian and shook his head. Back in school, Ian's girlfriends had all been Ravenclaws. He liked them book-smart, they had been easier to cheat on apparently. Always studying or something... She'd never approved of his antics, but whatever.

"Gemma." Hecate said nodding towards the woman who sat on her right.

"Hello Professor..." Ian said waving at the newcomer.

"Such a beautiful woman, and such an ugly scowl..." Ian said and waved. "Turn that frown upside down... I'm Ian Amoroso, board of governors." he said and winked.


"Pleasure to meet you, Professor." Ian said to the woman who had just entered.

Hecate could feel eyes on her, she turned and looked over to the Librarian whom she hadn't really spoken to last year. "Need a portrait Kitridge?" She said annoyed he was staring.

Ian turned and looked over at the man. "Hey, be lucky she hasn't set you on fire..." He said and laughed. "I'm Ian Amoroso."

Hecate nodded to the man.

"Good Day," Ian said politely. Since when were professors so territorial?

"Callie..." Hecate said in greeting. She sipped on a glass of water.

"Hello, professor!" He said waving back.


"Hops!" He said shaking the man's hand. "Nice to see you again, mate... we need to head down to Hogmeade and discuss things."

"Hello..." He said with a smile.

"If you wish, Cece. You may have my seat." Hecate said giving Dash a look.

Ian looked over at Hecate surprised. She was giving up HER seat? This must be the nurse. "Mademoiselle, so nice to meet you."

He over heard the woman. "Hello professor Hadley."

"That IS your job..." Hecate said to herself, rolling her eyes. And she wasn't whispering either. Prefects and captains... She knew he wasn't talking about the Slytherin ones.

... Weirdo Hecate thought to herself.

"I don't concern myself with weather, but yes, I suppose if you had a picnic planned..." She said looking at the Trasfig professor.

"Helloooo down there!" Ian said waving.

Haha...yeah a shame. Not. As much as Hops wished well for the students and the other adults on board the Hogwarts Express that evening, he wouldn't have traded his nice, normal evening serving the evening's last customers at the warm and cozy Three Broomsticks.

"That's fantastic then, a good choice I will say it once more." He said looking back to the red head in the high chair. Cassandra knew that he had liked her about the over applicants. But the next part about the Ministry brought a crease in his forehead. "The Ministry sure does like to step in." Harold leaned in closer and spoke more quietly to her. "It would be wonderful to distance ourselves from them as much as possible were they not the ones who helped fund a large portion of our budget." Yes, unfortunately the private family donations were down because of their lack of being in the spotlight but hopefully that would change soon enough.
"Under your cool head and keen discretion it is surely going to be a fine year." If she could keep the School out of the papers for negative reasons like staff disappearances and bloody freezing kids they might acutally go into the Elections in a good light.

He winked at her before taking a seat beside her. "If things go well, you could be looking at a considerable raise. The Board does has sections of our fund for bonuses." Yes, so try and keep it clean this term. The man took a sip of the butterbeer he had sent to the Kitchens for the Feast.
"Ah there's a good man!" Hops boomed as the Groundskeeper made his way, still dripping, to the Staff Table. The man was appologizing for his appearance but that was hardly necessary. Hops looked at the Headmistress as she forgave him and then he himself spoke up. "Mr. Gibbins your efforts this evening despite the chaos ensueing were beyond praiseworthy, I witnessed it first hand, I did." He nodded to Ian, Truebridge and the other staff memebers around him. This man was definaltey a hard worker, especially in his first year on the job!
And then the loon descended upon them.

After their Vice President finished making as much noise as a Mountain Troll on her way up to the seat Harold stared, open mouthed, as she climbed right over the back of her chair. That woman was utterly insane.

"Good evening Professor Lainey, did you drag yourself and that trunk all the way from the train?" Yes, he was now taking a sip of his drink to keep from bursting into laughter.

The vigorous handshake from his collegue didn't catch the pub owner off guard in the slightest--he was used to all sorts of folk in the Broomsticks. "Oh of course, my door's always open as you surely know." He fixed the man with a warm smile before his gaze trailed back to the greater portion, and the noisiest, the student tables.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harold Lagerty

"Under your cool head and keen discretion it is surely going to be a fine year." If she could keep the School out of the papers for negative reasons like staff disappearances and bloody freezing kids they might acutally go into the Elections in a good light.

He winked at her before taking a seat beside her. "If things go well, you could be looking at a considerable raise. The Board does has sections of our fund for bonuses." Yes, so try and keep it clean this term. The man took a sip of the butterbeer he had sent to the Kitchens for the Feast.

"Yes, of course," Annie practically BEAMED under Harold's compliments. She was certainly looking forward to a raise... just think of all the shoes vacations the extra galleons could buy... "I have a friend at the Prophet, did you know?" But more on that later. Now was the time for the speech, so that the feast could FINALLY start. She'd just have to catch Max up on what he was missing later.


-----------


Annie stood and tapped her wand on her goblet, sending a clear ringing sound throughout the hall. She waited for absolute silence and, once she had it, began the traditional start-of-term feast.

"Greetings, students, professors, and visitors. Welcome to, or back to, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I am your new Headmistress, Anastasia Truebridge." The Headmistress flashed a brilliant smile at all the eyes focused on her.

"This year, as you have surely noticed, brings a great many changes to Hogwarts. We have new staff members in our midst, myself included; new students, and new student leaders as well. Please welcome your peers with open hearts and allow me to take a moment to welcome our esteemed guests back to Hogwarts."

She looked to the Board, who knew to stand when their names were called. "Joining us at the feast tonight is the Hogwarts Board of Governors. Board President and former Headmistress Cassandra Rae-Branxton; Board Vice President and former Professor Anjelica Lainey; Board Secretary and Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magica Ian Amoroso; and Board Treasurer and Three Broomsticks Owner Harold Lagerty. Please welcome these wonderful guests, who make the funding and running of Hogwarts a possibility, with a round of applause."

Anastasia waited for the students to greet the board appropriately and, in the meantime, snagged a drink of water.

Medea giggled softly, half hugging her friend back. Such a weird angle. "I haff." And the accent was back in full. She was only planning on trying at it during lessons anyhow. Perhaps eventually, she wouldn't even need to try.

"Oh, thank you. And you." she smiled. Board of Governors here and all. Though she did love the orange Callie was wearing. Taking a deep breath, the dark haired professor looked out to the students momentarily, shrugging her shoulders up. "Actually, this summer could haff ended sooner."

So yes. Definitely glad to be back.

Oh dear...

It was the sparks of the wand that caught her attention, and she'd thought it was student already causing trouble, but with one glance lowered her suspicions. Was it already storming outside?

She almost had to make a double take.

Medea could've sworn there would have been no greeting in return but a nod, but what do you know? Things were looking up then, weren't they? "How vos your summer?" she asked, pouring herself a glass of water.

If that man with the wet hair and shirt hadn't sat down already, she would have suspected that loud screech was coming from him. Or, you know, someone had a dying owl in the great hall, but that was less likely. Watching the woman make her way up to the staff table, gaze bouncing back and forth from her to the trunk, it finally lingered on the trunk...

Her expression was slowly morphing into a cringe...LDflsdkf FLINCH! Something touched her head!

Blink! Blink blink. When did the woman get BEHIND her? Mother of pearl, that trunk was evil.

Having already been looking down the table, still slightly cringing, she looked to the man who spoke, taking a moment to process that he was talking to her. Oh! "Oh, hello." she said, expression softening as a smile replaced the frown. "Haffing a lovely night so far?"



The clear ringing brought her attention to the Headmistress, leaning back in her seat so the others next to her were able to see without craning their necks too much. She'd recognized Mister Lagerty, though it was nice to have names to faces with their other three guests. Medea smiled and started to clap, glancing across the hall to all the students. A big round of applause, yes?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Destiny

Oh, she could see everything from where she sat. And she was far less excited as more and more of the Professors walked into the great hall. At least, far less excited as more and more of the female Professors walked into the great hall.

Why hadn't she received the memo that this was a formal start-of-term feast?

Vanora would have dressed more appropriately. Instead of looking like she had just left the barn. Which she had, but that was besides the point. She would have to talk to Cece later about this.



Doing her best to try and look as small as possible by slinking further down into her seat, why did the staff table have to be so high!?, Vanora kept her eyes focused on the sorting. That was, until a hand was being held out to her and she slowly turned her head to find its owner. Only to be taken aback slightly when she found her.

Wow. Her dress was orange. Very nice. But also very orange.

"Thank you!" she smiled, and knowing that she would not get wet from the rain cloud hanging over the head of the woman she was now leaning over, she gave Calista's hand a quick shake. "Vanora Newlin. Care of Magical Creatures." Although, that was probably already known. But she just liked to say it. "I really like your dress." She really did.

"Vanora, that's a very pretty name." Callie tried for a second to think of some star or planetary body that had a name similar but couldn't think of any..oh well. Callie of course noticed the woman's different clothing choice than the rest of them but just assumed it had something to do with the unorthodox life of a Care of Magical Creatures Professor--William had never dressed up really.

"Oh this? Thanks so much I went to Diagon Alley to buy is specifically for tonight. You could borrow it sometime if you want." She assumed the girl wasn close to her size and if not, they WERE witches afterall. "You know those two ladies and fellows by the Headmistress are the Board of Governors right? They could fire us if they wanted to." Or at least she thought they could, either way Callie had been prepared for the night; the new woman shouldn't worry though, Callie was known to bring up random and sometimes inappropriate topics. Who would ever get fired in front of a Great Hall full of students? *cough* Ethan Truebridge *cough*

Quote:

Originally Posted by Marion Burbage

Despite her age, Marion did not waddle. No, she gliiiiiiiiiiiided across the dias towards her seat while her heels clanked against the ground until she had arrived back to where she was supposed to be. All alphabetical-like, yes studmuffin? Hmmm?

She glanced over at the charming young woman who had been so polite as to introduce herself WITHOUT being prompted to as she passed. "Why thank you Callista, dear. May I call you Callista?" Of course she could! Without waiting for an answer, the elderly astronomer continued. "We shall siiiiiiiiiiimply have to have a cup of tea or two or three up in the towers."

Venturing a glance back towards the end of the table she had departed from, Marion nodded. Yes, this end was MUCH more polite than that end. "I do believe you are right, dear. Tea later then, yes?"

"Of course, although some people just go with Callie." Either way, the woman seemed friendly enough. Callie watched her take her seat with mild interest seeing as she had never seen anyone sit in that specific chair before. And she nodded excitedly at the mention of tea.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mell

It felt like it had taken forever and a day to get here, but finally Sebastian was making his way up to the staff table, soaking wet and giving his wand a vigorous shake. It seemed to have stopped working for some reason. Maybe it was waterlogged after he had to jump into the lake after that kid.

He shook his head but he was chuckling lightly as he walked. Never in a million years had he thought this was how his first day at his first real job was going to be.

Halfway to the staff table and a few sparks emitted from his wand and he gave it another shake. "Come on." he muttered. The last thing he needed was to sit up there amongst his fellow colleagues, dripping water all over the place.

He was almost at the table when he felt a small, faint breeze of warm air surround him and he let a sigh of relief. Things would be alright. Except they weren't because while he managed to get most of himself dried, by the time he got to his chair, his hair and shirt were still a little wet.

Better than nothing he supposed.

Seb's gaze automatically went to the red head sitting in the centre of the table and he gave her an apologetic smile. "Headmistress." he inclined his head and a few drops of water dripped down his face. "My apologies for being late. But just as I got the kids into the boats, the storm started making the trip across the lake a little...hazardous." It seemed to be the theme of the night. "One child fell into the water and I had to go in after him. Hence the reason for my attire." She would forgive him, right? After all they had once been housemates.

He was just about to relax back into his chair when he remembered something else. "Oh and if you could spare a few minutes after the feast, I would like to discuss the events at the station. I have some concerns in regards to some of your Prefects and Captains."

And if she was in agreeance with him then points would be taken. If not then he was going to have a few students helping him fertilize the grounds.

Suddenly a man entered the Great Hall semi wet and saying something about a first year falling in the lake. Callie held a hand to her mouth to keep herself from giggling out loud and watched as he went to take his seat. "Evening, Callie Elwood, Divination Professor. Would you happen to be the Groundskeeper?" It was obvious but it was still kind enough to ponder these things. She didn't want him to think she was a know-it-all.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davvy_Wavvy

Hmmm?

Oh..Calista....that rude woman would receive nothing more than a raised eyebrow to acknowledge that she heard her. Besides that she kept to attention directed to Leobald. He was at least not rude and certainly not a fake Seer like this woman.

Hmph..so there you go Calista...snobbed..AGAIN.

And then Medea arrived. Oooh Sophia had something positively brilliant planned to get back at her for that e stunt she pulled in her last charms class. Sophia wasn't one for practical jokes but when the time called for it, she could certainly deliver. "Good evening Professor Ramanos."

*eye roll*

Callie looked at Sophia for a moment and then turned back to her conversation with Medea, giving her a look that suggested that she too ignore the frumpy Charms lady.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Calista!!

Catching the blond divination professor’s eye Leo waved back. "My summer was good; I visited Spain and visited my parents. You should come by my office later. I have a new book you might like." It wasn’t anything special, just a book which Leo had received in the latest book shipment.

Hopefully Callie would enjoy it.

Smiling again at the enthusiasm as to which Leo greeted her, Callie leaned forward in her chair to make out what else he had to say. "That sounds wonderful, I can see that you got some sun." Spain and....parents. She was jealous.

But before Callie's mood could be dampened by thoughts of her own summer an invitation was being given to check out some new books. "You know me too well, I may stop by after the Feast if there's time, is that alright with you?" As if her office needed another book.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mad Eye Touz

Lainey arrived to the Great Hall at last. She was wet, dripping even, and was dragging a trunk along behind her. The metal feet of the trunk made ear-splitting screeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeches with every inch she moved, but the VP didn't seem to hear it.

Drip. Step. Drip. Step.

She paused at the Ravenclaw table to see if those kids from the Food Trolley were Ravenclaws or hat munchers, then carried on towards the table.

Drip drop. Step. Drip drop step screeeeeeeeeech.

Because most everyone was there, and it was too tempting not to, Lainey BOPPED everyone's head down the line of present Professors. Like duck, duck, goose Staff Table style. BOP. BOP. BOP. BOP.

FINALLY, the soppy ex-professors, ex-auror, current VP of BoG arrived at her chair. Beside Rae. Sup, Rae.

She lined the trunk up with the back of her assigned and usual chair by Rae, climbed on top of it, then went over the TOP of her high back chair to take her seat.

"Well. I lost my food." So that sucked.

And who was this woman?

Callie had a bad feeling about her, the way she was shuffling her way into the Great Hall in such a loud and mysterious fashion. It wasn't until the woman made her way behind the staff table and bopped them each on the head that the Divination Professor caught the look on her face.

"Oh what good fun." The blonde said brightly watching the mysterious lady take a seat beside the Headmaster--she must be some sort of magical clown of sorts.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MeredithRodneyMckay

Isabelle had been late leaving home today. Scarlet had decided to play up and a cuddle from mum was the only thing to get her to sleep. But finally she'd managed to get going, having given Alastair a goodbye kiss, and stepping out in to the cold. When it promptly started raining. So Issy had turned up at the castle looking like a drowned rat. For the last 30 minutes she'd been in her office drying herself off and changing into the clothes she'd brought along to wear to the feast. Just as well she had considering she didn't really have the time to dry everything out. Her hair would have to do.

So it was with a quickened step that she entered the Great Hall and and rushed towards the staff table, giving the kids she passed a smile. Following on just behind a face she vaguely recognised, but the name escaped her. Although seeing how the woman acted upon her arrival at the table, Issy was glad she hadn't got there first. Climbing over the back of her chair, head bopping? Goodness.

She herself climbed the steps slowly, checking her seat was still in the same place, what with all the new people now there. Speaking of which, best to say hello. "Good evening!" she called out down to the unfamiliar faces, the red head in Tate's old chair presumably the new Headmistress. "Welcome to Hogwarts!" And then there was Hecate and Leo - people she knew and could perhaps have a conversation with. Although you never could tell with Hecate.

"Terrible weather, isn't it?" Isabelle commented to them as she slid into her seat and straightened out her jacket.

Another familiar woman took a seat at the far end of the table from Elwood but that didn't stop her from sending a wave down to the Transfiguration professor. "Evening Isobelle!"

Quote:

Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl

Anastasia's cat-like grin only widened as the Divination professor seemed to turn a shade of white usually only seen in ghosts. Heheh. She hadn't even said anything, had she? Was the woman so unsure in her "divine gifts" that she couldn't even take a joke?

"We'll chat later, I'm sure, Ms. Elwood." And the Bunz watched as the blonde scurried back to her seat like an admonished puppy.

Yeah, that first meeting with the Headmistress hadn't gone anywhere close to what she had wished it would have gone. Callie sat there at her chair, staring at the empty plate for a moment, the woman's words echoing in her ears. What had she even meant by them, that she was a fraud or that she knew all about her and Indigo and that she was planning on making Calista's life a living Hell this term and for the remainder of terms they both worked here?!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Droo

"Callie..." Hecate said in greeting. She sipped on a glass of water.

"Hello, professor!" He said waving back.

Callie had greeted Hecate but she hadn't really expected the man she was talking to to take notice and greet her aswell. "Hello there, sir. Welcome to Hogwarts." It felt so weird welcoming someone when she too was still a tad new to the place.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roselyn

Medea giggled softly, half hugging her friend back. Such a weird angle. "I haff." And the accent was back in full. She was only planning on trying at it during lessons anyhow. Perhaps eventually, she wouldn't even need to try.

"Oh, thank you. And you." she smiled. Board of Governors here and all. Though she did love the orange Callie was wearing. Taking a deep breath, the dark haired professor looked out to the students momentarily, shrugging her shoulders up. "Actually, this summer could haff ended sooner."

So yes. Definitely glad to be back.

Oh it was so good to be back with Medea, she would, unfortantely, tell her all about he horrible and depressing summer but that would be later; now they were just going to enjoy themselves. Again she was so proud of the dark haired woman despite her accent coming back when she just spoke naturally, she couldn't expect her to force herself to speak one way forever.

"Oh thank you!" Weren't they just so polite complimenting each other's outfits. But it seemed that Callie wasn't the only one who had had a less than plesant summer. "Oh I'm with you on that sister." She said raising her goblet for her to toast Medea's.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl

Annie stood and tapped her wand on her goblet, sending a clear ringing sound throughout the hall. She waited for absolute silence and, once she had it, began the traditional start-of-term feast.

"Greetings, students, professors, and visitors. Welcome to, or back to, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I am your new Headmistress, Anastasia Truebridge." The Headmistress flashed a brilliant smile at all the eyes focused on her.

"This year, as you have surely noticed, brings a great many changes to Hogwarts. We have new staff members in our midst, myself included; new students, and new student leaders as well. Please welcome your peers with open hearts and allow me to take a moment to welcome our esteemed guests back to Hogwarts."

She looked to the Board, who knew to stand when their names were called. "Joining us at the feast tonight is the Hogwarts Board of Governors. Board President and former Headmistress Cassandra Rae-Branxton; Board Vice President and former Professor Anjelica Lainey; Board Secretary and Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magica Ian Amoroso; and Board Treasurer and Three Broomsticks Owner Harold Lagerty. Please welcome these wonderful guests, who make the funding and running of Hogwarts a possibility, with a round of applause."

Anastasia waited for the students to greet the board appropriately and, in the meantime, snagged a drink of water.

And now Headmistress Truebridge was starting her speech. Callie nodded at the appropriate times and looked at each of the Board members as they stood, clapping along with the rest of the Hall. They seemed nice enough and surely seemed happy to be there.

Dash simply nodded. He could have pointed out that it was rude to invite herself to his office, but Rae was never one he had a problem with. So he would attempt to make small talk if need be.

He hadn't even noticed the Divinations Professor until she spoke up. "Oh I'm positive that she is Callie, otherwise she would be in her own seat." Obviously.

It was alright for people to be confused, as long as it didn't interfere with him.

It seemed that he had startled the older woman which was never his intention. Not really. Or perhaps it had been. Whatever really, as long as she got out of the seat. "That's quite alright." Yes, yes. Mistake and all that, just get up. Or perhaps she needed some kind of help? Like a cane of sorts?

But she didn't get up.

With or without a cane. She sat there for a few seconds longer, just long enough for the unamazing healer to make her way up the steps to join them. Only THEN did the older woman get up."Cecelia." Dash stared at the blonde, a mock look of confusion crossing his face. "Anastasia decided to keep you on staff? Shame. I had high hopes for the staff members this term." Hm.

She ruined them all.

And then she left?

As for the seat, well, he turned his attention to the older lady. "Great advice. I think however that I'd actually prefer this one." So that meant that his seniority allowed him to take it. As for startling her? "I believe that-" Dash paused mid-sentence as a LOUD voice from the Slytherin table grabbed his attention, and probably took attention AWAY from the Headmistress who was speaking. His eyes flickered over to Hecate, unsure if she were feeling better since her episode at the end of last term. Well, even if she was, he looked at the old lady once more. "I'll be right back." With that he made his way down to the Slytherin table, hoping not to distract students from the Headmistresses speech.

Cece made her way back to the staff table with the bag of potions in her hand that she had just confiscated. "Thank you Hecate, but that won't be necessary. It seems my seat is unoccupied now." Looking down the table she seen the older seated way at the other end now. Well look at that, seems they finally got someone to fill that blasted Astronomy position.

Before making her way to her seat she set the bag on the table in front of Hecate. "A gift for you... from a very careless Ravenclaw." Cece really had no idea what kinds of potions were in that bag but she was sure Hecate would figure it out.

Finally getting to sit in her own seat Cece acknowledged those on either side of her. "Hello Seren." She then turned to the man on her right, who was not Waylon. "Hello, I assume you're the new groundskeeper." Who could have done a better job a drying himself off. "I'm Healer Cecelia Tillstorm."

Cece had caught Dashbags little comment as she had been leaving the table to take care of that 'claw. She was finally going to make a comment of her own but now it was him who was leaving. "Good riddance, don't hurry back." Things would definitely be much nicer without him around.

At least now she could sit back and listen to the Headmistress give her speech... and watch her drink some water.

Maybe she should warn the woman about what happens when you drink things from this table.

Sebastian had never been one to get embarrassed before, he lives with fifty other people after all and embarrassment just didn't come into it. But the way he was being assessed right now made him squirm a little under the Headmistresses' scrutinising gaze.

"Er...not a problem." he said blinking at her. So apparently she hadn't changed since school. He gave her a smile and turned to see someone waving at him.

"Yes you are correct." he replied as he lent back in his chair and stretched out his hand towards the man. "Sebastian Gibbins. And unfortunately no. It hit just as we got into the boats. At least it will give them something to tell their grandkids."

Sebastian gave a nod of his head towards the woman. "Thank you."

Ahh this must be the potions mistress. Yes he had heard all about her. Sebastian turned in her direction and just smiled. "I wasn't complaining." Just in case she thought that's what he was doing. "Just merely pointing out why I was late."


And he was about to say more when the booming voice of one of the men at the table and Sebastian recognised him from the station. "Well thank you kind sir. But I was just doing my job." His gaze went to the potions mistress and tossed her a wink. Before he turned his attention back to the gentleman. "You did a fine job yourself."

And then his gaze cut to a very, VERY pretty young woman and he grinned at her. They were all so friendly here. Well except for you-know-who but he could deal with her. "It's a pleasure to meet you Ms Elwood. And yes you are correct. Sebastian Gibbins. But you can call me Seb." And then the Headmistress stood up to make her speech and he sat back to listen to what she had to say.

Merlin, was it bed time yet?

Lainey simply scratched her nose at the new Headmistress, Little Missy Annie Bunbury. "Now that you're here, you mean." No one had been waiting on her, after all.

Lainey scratched her nose at him, too.

...

..

.

"I rode the trunk instead. Saved some energy." THen she rung out her hair into a napkin.




"WOOP WOOP WOOP WOOP!" One woop for her and Rae, and the rest for all that Headmistressy-speech-ness. Lainey air punched to get the WHOLE HALL WOOPING. EVERYONE NOW. WOOP FOR ALL THIS NEW STUFF AND tainted House Elf food.

...no? Okay.

Fair enough. Right, lovely. So maybe not in the mood to chat, going by the tone. Then again, Hecate quite often spoke that way. "Yes. Or travel," Issy replied, feeling the still slightly damp ends to her hair and shrugging.

----------------

Then a wave caught her eye, and Isabelle shifted her gaze from Hecate to one of the new people further down. "Hello!" she grinned back, waving a little herself. "I'm Isabelle Magnus, Transfiguration Professor. I hope you're enjoying the feast so far, Mr...." Oh, she had no clue what his name was. That was embarrassing.

Speech time.

Isabelle filled her goblet and took a few sips as she listened to what the new Headmistress had to say - making note of all the names mentioned, and leaning forward so she could see which face they should be attached to. Ian Amoroso. So that was who Issy had been greeting. Now she knew.

Once the speech was finished, she placed down her goblet and clapped loudly, looking down and smiling at them all just in case they were looking. Board of Governors. Brilliant.

Although Lainey was a strange one. O____o

"Hello Callie! Good summer?" Isabelle practically had to mime the words and ended it with a thumbs up. The table had got an awful lot longer since last term.

"You're very welcome." Isabelle raised her goblet to the man and smiled. So many new faces. So many important ones. She was dearly hoping every one would be on their best behaviour.

Looking back down at her plate, Issy swallowed her drink and went about filling that up with some potatoes. She was awfully hungry.

As was to be expected, Lainey made quite the entrance, and Cassandra paused to watch the entire show. Up the aisle, around the students, across the dais and with a little bop to the head for each staff member...

Memorable. Lainey was always so memorable.

"We can stop for a meal in the village after the feast, if you'd like. Or I'll taste test your plate." It had long ago stopped being a ridiculous thing that Lainey wouldn't eat elf-prepared food. There were reasons for it.

"Viv got into Ravenclaw." Shocker, that was.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl

"She is, I know," Annie continued the conversation with Rae. "I certainly hope she wouldn't expect any special treatment, even if she IS the daughter of two of Hogwarts' greatest legends."

There, nothing wrong with a bit of flattery for Mrs. Branxton. "Do you think I should give my speech now?" the redhead worried a bit as she saw students still taking their seats. Merlin, why were they all so WET?

"I don't think she expects it, no. But some are... inclined to offer it regardless." Cassandra shrugged. Genevieve could do as she pleased, and generally did, but it was up to a mother to worry about her children.

"Yes, dear... go ahead with your speech. They look hungry and tired." And COLD.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Droo

"You must be so proud." Ian said to Rae-Branxton, "I understand you were a RAvenclaw as well?"

That must have been the former Headmistress' daughter... in Ravenclaw. Hecate looked at Ian and shook his head. Back in school, Ian's girlfriends had all been Ravenclaws. He liked them book-smart, they had been easier to cheat on apparently. Always studying or something... She'd never approved of his antics, but whatever.

"Still am, of course. House pride isn't something one ever really grows out of."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harold Lagerty

Haha...yeah a shame. Not. As much as Hops wished well for the students and the other adults on board the Hogwarts Express that evening, he wouldn't have traded his nice, normal evening serving the evening's last customers at the warm and cozy Three Broomsticks.

"That's fantastic then, a good choice I will say it once more." He said looking back to the red head in the high chair. Cassandra knew that he had liked her about the over applicants. But the next part about the Ministry brought a crease in his forehead. "The Ministry sure does like to step in." Harold leaned in closer and spoke more quietly to her. "It would be wonderful to distance ourselves from them as much as possible were they not the ones who helped fund a large portion of our budget." Yes, unfortunately the private family donations were down because of their lack of being in the spotlight but hopefully that would change soon enough.

Cassandra nodded amiably and leaned in as the Headmistress stood to give her speech, speaking behind the woman since Hops wasn't seated next to her. "I'm very pleased with our selection, although it will remain to be seen whether she is willing to work with us or prefers to work against us."

She glanced briefly at Amoroso. "I'm very uncomfortable with the Minister's interest in our board. We've always worked best when we were a distinct body. Having the right hand of Greingoth in our meetings is akin to having him telling us what to do. A conflict of interests."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mad Eye Touz

"WOOP WOOP WOOP WOOP!" One woop for her and Rae, and the rest for all that Headmistressy-speech-ness. Lainey air punched to get the WHOLE HALL WOOPING. EVERYONE NOW. WOOP FOR ALL THIS NEW STUFF AND tainted House Elf food.

...no? Okay.

Cassandra jumped in her seat and wooped obediently too. You woop, I woop, Jack.

The professor nodded back at the Potions guru with her usual smile and took a quick drink...as she took the drink she debated speaking with the woman and her manners over took her. As she sat down the glass, she said, "Hecate, I hope your break treated you well..." yes that was a simple greeting...

Gemma smiled at the man...he seemed extremely happy to be here...that was a nice change, she thought as she glanced up and down the table at some of the grim faces glaring out at the students. She held out her right hand to the man, "Gemma Cerulean, Muggle Studies...but you can call me Gemma..." she said with a sweet little smile at the man.

Gemma's face lit up as the Librarian spoke, "O Spain...how exciting...I've always wanted to visit there...we must meet for tea so I can see all of your pictures..." she said as she pushed a stray bang behind one of her ears. "I have to admit the bronze glow looks good on you..." she said with a little wink.

She perked up even more when he mentioned the Muggle section, "O that is great. I brought some old books from home that I need to drop by and donate to the section as well. They were some of my favorites when I was in my teen years. I'm glad that the students have been taking to the new section." she said excitedly pulling out a little notebook from her purple bag and adding dropping off books to her to do list which was getting longer and longer by the minute.

Gemma plastered a smile on her face...it was still very genuine because she had lots of practice keeping this exact smile on her face...after all, this was the smile she gave her mother every time she was asked about why she didn't have a boyfriend...inside she screamed but outside her demeanor was flawless, "It's actually just Miss Cerulean, but it's easier just to call me Gemma..." she said with a friendly wink at the Headmistress. "I know you are busy tonite with all of our guests but I would love to drop by your office and catch up...We were at Hogwarts together and I'm sure we ran into each other a few times..." she said with a little bit of excitement...of course she remembered the woman but she wasn't sure if the woman would remember her since she was a few years younger.