... Did Cutty treat all friends like this? Because the choke hold was very uncomfortable and Zander could feel the blood rushing over. And his head going slightly light and fuzzy. Ahem. Not that Cutty was squeezing too hard, but still.

And of course he had been amused at whatever was going on between Dora and Cutty before... But he had every thought to believe that Cutty was trying to bother the girl now. "She's just looking out for me, Cutty," he nodded. "Dora's got a big heart," Zander said, looking back over to the first-year in mention. It was true. A Gryffindor's gift, really. And they said Hufflepuffs were the ones with extreme loyalty. It was a shared trait, really.

.......

UH.

ANYWAYS. DAMIEN. ANDERSON-LONGNAME.

Zander nearly chocked at the boy's words. Uh. Deciding he needed an emergency sip of his pumpkin juice. "Oi," that is NOT what was happening here. Zander had already sold his soul to one Sophie Brown thank you very much. And she was MUCH prettier than Cutty Mourdant. Just sayin'.



Um.

Had he missed something?

Because Larissaa was definitely giving him a fist full of attitude.... And.... Uh. Why?

"Uh.... Right," Zander gave her a confused look as he turned away. What in the name of Merlin had he done to make that girl hate him so much? Uh. Well... You couldn't please everybody. Clearly. And they were both graduating anyways... So eh Zander could live with it. Just confused. But that wasn't anything new.


That look.

It was enough to stir up nightmares, man.

But they were in a public place now, surrounded by tons of other people. So Zander just gave the man a very confused nod. And an uncertain wave. The Professors here, they were all crazy in their own ways, huh?


Okay. What was with it and people climbing all over Zander Adair? Did his lap just look incredibly comfy to rest on or what? Because Zander didn't get it. He didn't get it, but he was used to it now. So he looked up at the culprit without any sort of annoyance on his face. When one is a Zander Adair, this sort of thing is just something one must be willing to live with. It was the biggest requirement of the job.

Seeing it was Norah's feet, however, was sort of an odd surprise. He didn't expect that, actually. She was normally more... hesitant? Reserved, maybe? Actually, he couldn't quite place the right word for it. "Oh," he grinned sheepishly, knowing quite well that his cheeks were probably betraying him with a slight hint of pink. "Thanks, it was really unexpected..." No wonder all this weird stuff had happened. Botros really was off his rocker! Didn't everyone see him up there? It was some sort of terminal illness starting at the beginning of the summer when he had given Zander the Head Boy badge. Then it was the internship. And now it was all that weird behavior up at the staff table. "Anyways, it was real great getting to know you some more this term, Miss Prefect," he smiled, mussing his hair. "Keep an eye out on things for me next term, will ya?" He paused looking over at Yoongi, before turning back to the Hufflepuff. "Especially with him." HEH. Because Zander DEFINITELY knew there was something going on over there, okay?

... A hug?

Oh.

Norah was sweet. A presence Zander hadn't realized he'd miss until this moment.


Zander chuckled some more, choosing to politely abstain from commenting on all the blushing she had been doing. Something he had wished people would've done for him, when he had been in the presence of Beautiful Bentley back in the day. "I'll miss you too, Burton," he smiled warmly. He was genuine about it too. He'd miss all the first years actually, well, maybe not the Blaise kid... But most of them. They were all good people. Had so much to experience. So much of Hogwarts left to unravel. Made Zander kind of jealous, actually.

Zander smile was one of relief and gratefulness. Things were finally starting to fall into place. After following along with Flamsteed, the Gryffindor took a sip from his own goblet. Not yet realizing that Professor Flamsteed wasn't quite done yet.

"Thanks Professor, I couldn't have made it this far without all your help," he grinned. Okay. Yes, that was cheesy. BUT in his defense, it was probably the excitement of the moment, okay? A REAL internship. At the MINISTRY OF MAGIC, nonetheless. He'd get to meet people and DO things and get a kickstart on his life. And there was still that other thing he had planned for this feast and man. Life was GREAT.

But there was more? He watched curiously as his Astronomy Professor pulled out to envelopes. He did recognize one of them, but he had no earthly idea as to what the other one could be. But that was the one extended to him first so, Zander went ahead and looked at that one first. He didn't know what the writing meant... But the compass gave him the hint he needed, "Is this from..." Had they already made a decision on his application?? Was the fast turnaround a bad sign!? He probably should just wait until he was alone to open it right? Right.

Too bad he was already ripping through the thing as if his life depended upon it. "Dear Mr. Adair...." he muttered as he skimmed along, his heart pounding with what could only be pure adrenaline. "We are pleased to inform you..." he stopped, not reading any further, raising the parchment in the air and jumping onto his feet. "They're PLEASED to inform me!" he exclaimed to no one in particular. Okay so uh, he was maybe INCREDIBLYEXCITEDTHATHEWASACTUALLYGOINGPLACESWITHH ISLIFE?????????

"THEY ARE PLEASED, PROFESSOR!" Forget everything. Forget winning the house cup. Forget graduation. Zander Adair was going places. GLOBAL, PLACES.

Er. He should've probably read more than just the first few words, right? Maybe. So he quickly looked down at the letter once more, skimming only the next few lines that confirmed. Whew. That would've been real embarrassing. "I've been accepted. They want me for the program," THEY WANTED ZANDER ADAIR FOR THE PROGRAM???? Excited couldn't even begin to explain.
Only, he hadn't really given real thought into what it would mean. Being accepted. Honestly, he had sort of put away the possibility. He guiltily felt around for the object in his pocket. Maybe he had been too rash asking Kevin to go get it for him. A whole year away, a lot of things could change.

Upon realizing Sophie Brown had made it over to the Gryffindor table, Zander felt again for the object in his pocket. Guilty. But... She looked busy with Flamsteed anyways so... There was still time to decide what his next move would be. He'd figure it out before the feast was over. In the mean time he gave her a smile before looking away and giving her a chance to talk to Flamsteed.

SPOILER!!: Benny

Quote:

Originally Posted by Holmesian Feline

The astronomy professor's attention was now fully on him after handling Zander, congradulating and saluting him in turn. "Thank you, Professor," Benny with a polite smile at the man. Taking the liberty...? The seventh year lion was mildly confused at what Flamsteed was talking about, tentatively taking the envelope with its animalistic seal closed upon it. He read the name upon it for some clue and he suddenly remembered what part of the conversation this had to do with.

The scholarships and awards available to him.

"Oh...well then double thank you Professor Flamsteed...um Admiral." Okay he was dealing with surprises and confusion and trying to keep it all straight on this, his last night at Hogwarts ever. It was a lot to be taking in, especially all of a sudden. "What exactly is the Newt Scamander Memorial Trust?" Benny asked, the only thing obvious was the connection to one of the most famous magizoologists ever.

The astronomer had merely sent a few owls, the real work had been done by Mr. Atreyu over his entire Hogwarts career. Still, the man bowed his head in appreciation and offered the soon-to-be university student a smile. "Open it up and you'll have your answer," he answered stoically and with some awkward wiggly brows.

Maintained by the Newt Scamander Memorial Trust, the The Newt Scamander Memorial Scholarship for the Study of Magizoology was awarded a handful of hopeful university students each year. Despite the prestigious name, it was ironically a lesser known scholarship due to its small amounts of galleons given out per award compared to other organizations - since the trust put a majority of its funds towards the various reservations and sanctuaries these days. Still nothing to stick one's nose up at though, certainly. 350 galleons, to be precise. Ought to cover textbooks, supplies and then some, yeah?

Airey waited eagerly for the Gryffindor to open it all up.

SPOILER!!: ERI----er---SOPHIE

Quote:

Originally Posted by feeheeheeny

"FLAMMY."

"FLA-HA-HA-HAAAMY."

"FLAAAM-MYYYYY!!!"

On her jolly trek from the staff table to the Gryffindor one, Soph had summoned her bag and slung it over her shoulder as she bounced toward the Gryffindor Head of House who was, as usual, creating quite a scene. Students were flocked around him like he was a celebrity - which, well, he was - but Sophie Brown was DEMANDING his attention.

COME HERE, FLAMMY. She was gonna wait over here, her letter from Ollivanders in hand, and make ALL THE EXCITED GOOGLY EYES AT HIM.

And brows for you, Zander Adair.

Oh.

Sweet.

Solstice.

As mortified a look as the astronut tended to give whenever Miss Brown made a spectacle out of greeting him and utterly embarrassing him in any fashion possible, this was still far superior to being up there with the furry deathtraps.

And yes. He would miss it.

Probably.

"Yes, Miss Brown?"

SPOILER!!: Zander!

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArianaBlack

... Did Cutty treat all friends like this? Because the choke hold was very uncomfortable and Zander could feel the blood rushing over. And his head going slightly light and fuzzy. Ahem. Not that Cutty was squeezing too hard, but still.

And of course he had been amused at whatever was going on between Dora and Cutty before... But he had every thought to believe that Cutty was trying to bother the girl now. "She's just looking out for me, Cutty," he nodded. "Dora's got a big heart," Zander said, looking back over to the first-year in mention. It was true. A Gryffindor's gift, really. And they said Hufflepuffs were the ones with extreme loyalty. It was a shared trait, really.

.......

UH.

ANYWAYS. DAMIEN. ANDERSON-LONGNAME.

Zander nearly chocked at the boy's words. Uh. Deciding he needed an emergency sip of his pumpkin juice. "Oi," that is NOT what was happening here. Zander had already sold his soul to one Sophie Brown thank you very much. And she was MUCH prettier than Cutty Mourdant. Just sayin'.



Um.

Had he missed something?

Because Larissaa was definitely giving him a fist full of attitude.... And.... Uh. Why?

"Uh.... Right," Zander gave her a confused look as he turned away. What in the name of Merlin had he done to make that girl hate him so much? Uh. Well... You couldn't please everybody. Clearly. And they were both graduating anyways... So eh Zander could live with it. Just confused. But that wasn't anything new.


That look.

It was enough to stir up nightmares, man.

But they were in a public place now, surrounded by tons of other people. So Zander just gave the man a very confused nod. And an uncertain wave. The Professors here, they were all crazy in their own ways, huh?


Okay. What was with it and people climbing all over Zander Adair? Did his lap just look incredibly comfy to rest on or what? Because Zander didn't get it. He didn't get it, but he was used to it now. So he looked up at the culprit without any sort of annoyance on his face. When one is a Zander Adair, this sort of thing is just something one must be willing to live with. It was the biggest requirement of the job.

Seeing it was Norah's feet, however, was sort of an odd surprise. He didn't expect that, actually. She was normally more... hesitant? Reserved, maybe? Actually, he couldn't quite place the right word for it. "Oh," he grinned sheepishly, knowing quite well that his cheeks were probably betraying him with a slight hint of pink. "Thanks, it was really unexpected..." No wonder all this weird stuff had happened. Botros really was off his rocker! Didn't everyone see him up there? It was some sort of terminal illness starting at the beginning of the summer when he had given Zander the Head Boy badge. Then it was the internship. And now it was all that weird behavior up at the staff table. "Anyways, it was real great getting to know you some more this term, Miss Prefect," he smiled, mussing his hair. "Keep an eye out on things for me next term, will ya?" He paused looking over at Yoongi, before turning back to the Hufflepuff. "Especially with him." HEH. Because Zander DEFINITELY knew there was something going on over there, okay?

... A hug?

Oh.

Norah was sweet. A presence Zander hadn't realized he'd miss until this moment.


Zander chuckled some more, choosing to politely abstain from commenting on all the blushing she had been doing. Something he had wished people would've done for him, when he had been in the presence of Beautiful Bentley back in the day. "I'll miss you too, Burton," he smiled warmly. He was genuine about it too. He'd miss all the first years actually, well, maybe not the Blaise kid... But most of them. They were all good people. Had so much to experience. So much of Hogwarts left to unravel. Made Zander kind of jealous, actually.

Zander smile was one of relief and gratefulness. Things were finally starting to fall into place. After following along with Flamsteed, the Gryffindor took a sip from his own goblet. Not yet realizing that Professor Flamsteed wasn't quite done yet.

"Thanks Professor, I couldn't have made it this far without all your help," he grinned. Okay. Yes, that was cheesy. BUT in his defense, it was probably the excitement of the moment, okay? A REAL internship. At the MINISTRY OF MAGIC, nonetheless. He'd get to meet people and DO things and get a kickstart on his life. And there was still that other thing he had planned for this feast and man. Life was GREAT.

But there was more? He watched curiously as his Astronomy Professor pulled out to envelopes. He did recognize one of them, but he had no earthly idea as to what the other one could be. But that was the one extended to him first so, Zander went ahead and looked at that one first. He didn't know what the writing meant... But the compass gave him the hint he needed, "Is this from..." Had they already made a decision on his application?? Was the fast turnaround a bad sign!? He probably should just wait until he was alone to open it right? Right.

Too bad he was already ripping through the thing as if his life depended upon it. "Dear Mr. Adair...." he muttered as he skimmed along, his heart pounding with what could only be pure adrenaline. "We are pleased to inform you..." he stopped, not reading any further, raising the parchment in the air and jumping onto his feet. "They're PLEASED to inform me!" he exclaimed to no one in particular. Okay so uh, he was maybe INCREDIBLYEXCITEDTHATHEWASACTUALLYGOINGPLACESWITHH ISLIFE?????????

"THEY ARE PLEASED, PROFESSOR!" Forget everything. Forget winning the house cup. Forget graduation. Zander Adair was going places. GLOBAL, PLACES.

Er. He should've probably read more than just the first few words, right? Maybe. So he quickly looked down at the letter once more, skimming only the next few lines that confirmed. Whew. That would've been real embarrassing. "I've been accepted. They want me for the program," THEY WANTED ZANDER ADAIR FOR THE PROGRAM???? Excited couldn't even begin to explain.
Only, he hadn't really given real thought into what it would mean. Being accepted. Honestly, he had sort of put away the possibility. He guiltily felt around for the object in his pocket. Maybe he had been too rash asking Kevin to go get it for him. A whole year away, a lot of things could change.

Upon realizing Sophie Brown had made it over to the Gryffindor table, Zander felt again for the object in his pocket. Guilty. But... She looked busy with Flamsteed anyways so... There was still time to decide what his next move would be. He'd figure it out before the feast was over. In the mean time he gave her a smile before looking away and giving her a chance to talk to Flamsteed.

High praise right there. The sort an educator longed to hear from their pupils and it helped bring the color out in his ears just a smidgen but nothing terribly noticeable beneath the candlelight. Airey could only hope that, given time, the young man would realize how much of it he had done for himself. How open minded the Gryffindor had been to all the Astronomy professor's recommendations and exercises.

"Congratulations," he voice knowingly boomed, arms stretched out to either side proudly despite himself and managed to actually catch himself before it became too obvious what some small glitch in his subconscious had caused. This, his arms went up and behind his head. Yup. Totally casual. "I'm very proud of you, Mr. Adair."

And now he had ONE more thing to give him. Perhaps something that would hold even more value in the hands of the Head Boy. Offering the young man the second letter he had removed from his enchanted breast pocket, Airey chuckled and waited for Mr. Adair to take it.

SPOILER!!: the letter

Dear Me,

It’s you. Well, it’s me. It’s us?

Let me start that again… Hi Zander, it’s you from the past. I guess when you get this letter, you’ll still remember that you had to write it. So I don’t know why I spent so long trying to come up with a good opening…

I’m only writing this because as Head Boy, I feel like Professor Flamsteed expects me to set an example here. So I guess I’ve got to do this to encourage other people to do it too. Kind of bummed that there wasn’t anything in the box though. It wasn’t nearly as exciting as I thought it’d be. But here we are. Me in the past and you in the future. Well, in my future.

I guess right now life is weird. I’ve got lots of good things going for me… Like, I’m finally dating Sophie Brown and I think that’s going well. Sometimes she gets sad and I have no idea how to fix it, but I’m trying because I really, really like her. Not just because she’s smoking hot, either. Um… I’ve got loads of good friends too. Some at Hogwarts, but I’ve also got Lottie and Kevin. I think between Sophie, Lottie, and Kevin I have three best friends. And I wouldn’t trade ‘em for the world. So I hope that I still have all three of them by the end of this year. That’s a good thing to hope for, right?

But there’s also stuff that isn’t going too well. For one, I got the Head Boy badge this year. And I mean, I’m really grateful that Professor Flamsteed and Headnaster Botros saw it in me, but I still can’t help but feel like I didn’t deserve it. I think it should’ve gone to Adi or even Newell. But… I’m doing my very best to make everyone proud. It’s just really hard to make everyone happy. The stupid Aparecium has got lots to say about my prefecting style, load of rubbish they are. And a lot of people don’t think I can do it. I’ve got to prove them wrong, though. I’m going to make it out of Hogwarts with the badge still in tact. That’s another goal. I need to stay Head Boy and I need to make people proud.

I hope by the time I get this letter I’ve got it all figured out. ‘Cause I’m absolutely lost right now. Most people know exactly what they want to do when they graduate. EVEN THE FIRST YEARS!! But I don’t have a single clue. I know I like herbology and Care of Magical Creatures… But do I really want to work with flowers my entire life? That sounds pretty dull to be honest. I don’t even know if I want to go to Uni. Graduate school just to go for more school!??? That’s what Sophie wants to do though. And a lot of other people too. I’ve got to pass my NEWTs before I can even think of any of that though… Speaking of which, WHAT THE HECK AM I GOING TO DO ABOUT NEWTs? I thought I was finally getting good at all this magic stuff, but we had to do nonverbals in charms and I couldn’t do it at all. I spent an entire class failing at a spell. It was horrible. Like first year all over again. It only makes NEWTs stress even worse.

I guess there’s just a lot of pressure right now. There’s too much pressure to do everything right. And I feel like it’s making me do everything wrong.

Hope you get it all figured out,
Because I haven’t got a clue.


Zander Adair

"This should read familiar to you. Familiar...but foreign," he chuckled.

Yoongi was glad that she changed her looks of horror to a grin. Had she finally caught on that he DID wanted to spend a date with her? “I do like awards” he said slowly, scratching his chin as if he had an imaginary beard. He looked at Norah as if he was waiting for her to give him something but then again, that beaming smile was enough. HEH.

The Gryffindor suddenly laughed as Norah commented about his hair. “You’d think so right? But no.” he sighed. He knew that people didn’t care about his hair. How it looked like or which color it was , was all to make himself feel better and confident. Growing up with three sisters he picked up a thing or two. “I’m thinking about dyeing it silver/grey-ish next term “ he grinned, running a hand through his red hair. He liked not-natural colors.

As he ate his vegetable soup, Yoongi looked up to follow Norah with his eyes and he kept watching her as she walked around the table and ….placed her legs on Zander’s lap… He felt a pang of jealousy but then quickly reminded himself that they weren’t a thing yet. They weren’t officially a couple, just going on a date that was all. Plus, he didn’t want to be the type of guy who forbid her to hang out with her male friends. So, when Zander looked in his direction while saying something to Norah he could not hear he quickly looked to the other side, pretending he had not seen. He’d congratulate Zander on graduating later in the train.

At that moment, he saw Professor Dakest walking up to the Gryffindor table. He’d never thanked the man for the duel now he thought about it. Even if he had lost….dramatically…but whatever. “Professor!” he called and waved his hand to get his attention. “Thanks for the duel, it was awesome! But I’m going to beat you next year” he grinned, not knowing yet that there wouldn’t be a next year.

….

Pretending that he hadn’t seen that ZANDER had gotten a HUG and not HIM, Yoongi continued to eat (mashed potatoes now) when the Hufflepuff Prefect sat down next to him. “Well, I’m going to Germany for a week with my parents and sisters” he said as he thought of where in Germany they were going again. “we’re going sightseeing in Bavaria. Its supposed to be really mystical with small towns , a castle and mountains. Enjoying the fresh air you know” he said as he grabbed the bowl of green peas. “What are you going to do?”

Norah tried and failed to watch Yoongi speak at the same time as taking a mouthful of steak and kidney pie, eventually giving up on looking by the fourth time her food had slipped off her fork and back onto her plate on the way to her mouth. It was hard, okay? It seemed quite obvious that when he spoke about his hair (which would look awfully cool in silver) she'd want to look at it, but all those years of avoiding her mum's manners-related lectures had apparently come back to haunt her, because she just couldn't do it. Mums, man. They knew EVERYTHING, even when you didn't want them to.

She noticed his expression had turned a little funny--yes, she was looking. She was allowed to do that now, right? Or did that happen later, if anything happened? Somebody really needed to write a book about this, because it was becoming quite evident that she couldn't navigate without some sort of instruction manual. It hadn't even occurred to her that hugging other people might've been upsetting, but she didn't really see how she could live without it. Hugging was what she DID. It was like air or sleep or chocolate. Her confusion must have been showing on her face, but it quickly went away again because CASTLES were being talked about, and those ranked among the most exciting things ever. "That is SO COOL." Did he KNOW how cool that was? "Fresh air's my very favorite." Norah considered adding that he should send her a post card, but part of her wondered if he'd do that all by himself, so she kept quiet. It had become much easier to keep her thoughts to herself by now, which she was sure everybody would be thankful for. "My mum's parents live in France, y'know in Bordeaux where I was born, so me and my parents and my little brothers go there for a bit every summer. There's a beach 'n stuff and we pla--hang out." Okay fine, they played. Professor Moxley SAID that imaginative games were good, remember? That could be her excuse from now on, because the 'my brothers are little' one wasn't going to work that well anymore now that ickle baby Marcel was already nine. Somebody really needed to tell him to stop growing.

Brimming with elation and the purest joy she could ever exhibit, Soph bounced right on over to the professor and stood by his side, their shoulders touching, holding her letter from Ollivander's out in front of him so he could read it. "Look, looooooook!!! I just got this, didja see the owl?!" AND HEAR HER SQUEALING? She pointed at the different points of the parchment as she read along, "S'from Ira Banner at Ollivanders! Look, he says he's NEVER had an apprentice before, but he thinks I'M an adequate candidate and HE WANTS ME TO BE HIS APPRENTICE!! M'GONNA WORK AT OLLIVANDER'S AND BE A WANDMAKER!!"

DIDJA HEAR THAT, ZANDER ADAIR??? HER DREAMS WERE COMING TRUE.

Though she wanted to fling her arms around Flammy and hug his gangly torso with all her might in the utmost gratitude for ALL he'd done in inspiring her to strive for success and be the best person she could be, she knew it'd result in severe discomfort and come across as disrespectful to the man, so instead she bounced on her heels with big, bright eyes, looking like she was going to EXPLODE IF SHE DIDN'T GET TO HUG HIM.

WAS THERE AN OFF BUTTON FOR THIS KID?

Okay. OKAY. This dude was making her mad... and she REALLY didn't care who was around, tbh. Heh. Giving him a sweet smile she turned her attention back to ZANDER and got up to move around the table for Papa Bear hugs. And welll.... if she just so HAPPENED to elbow CUTTY in the head when she got over there, it was TOTALLY not her fault. At all. Nope. NOPE.

And as she went to launch herself at ZANDER she was mindful to throw her 'bow in the general cutty direction. "Thanks, Zander. I mean it. You're like a big brother." Because her brother was 4 minutes younger than her so she had no idea what having a BIG brother was like. Heh. Releasing him from her bear (or lion) hug she scooted herself into the seat on the OTHER side of her Lion King.

AND THEN SHE SAW UNCLE SABEL!!!!!!!! He got a great big wave and a kiss face. Mhm. She was SO glad she would get to see him and the kids and Aunt Arya over the summer!!!! Yep yep yep.

Janelle was in the middle of her laugh attack when Zeke tried to curb her giggles. His arm around her shoulders and hand over her mouth, did not really help much. Her laugh was now muffled, but the tears and the heaving shoulders gave her away. "Mmmmmm", she mumbled. And suddenly Zeke released her. Janelle wiped her eyes on the sleeves of her robe and tried the deep breathing again. "I'm ok, I'm ok", she said. She was slightly calmer, but the wrong word or look might set her off again.....at any moment.



Just as Janelle thought that she had her hysterics in check, the unthinkable happened. Professor Flamsteed was heading their way. Janelle looked at Zeke with something close to terror in her eyes. When the Professor addressed them, Janelle channeled her inner actress, put on a happy (but not too happy) face and turned to him. "Everything is fine Professor. Zeke just told me a very funny joke. Live Long and Prosper!" Janelle was able to hold it together only because of the fingernails that were digging into her thigh at that moment. She dared not look at Zeke or she might have a relapse. Maybe this would be a good time to make her escape.

Marsha was trying to cheer up, honestly she was. She had spoken to Sophie, Zander and Reagan at their last Quill meeting. She had another run with Adi tomorrow morning before they had to get ready for the train. She would see Puck tonight to say thank you for looking out for her over the last two years and it wasn’t like this was the last that she would see Benzi, since his sister was one of her best friends. She had to remember that they had impacted her life greatly over the last two terms but that didn’t mean that she would never see them again or that she would forget them. … but she did need to try and speak to Cutty before she left the train station tomorrow and she would mostly, kinda, sorta, never be okay.

When Yoongi spoke to her though, she couldn’t help but smile. He’d always been so patient with her, and had never made her feel like a nuisance - even last year. She gave him a small smile and leant her head on his shoulder in gentle, silent thanks. She was just going to turn back to looking wistfully at her plate when Norah - kind, sweet, beautiful Norah - started talking to her too. With chocolate! Mouth hanging open slightly, she looked up at the Hufflepuff Prefect. ”Are… are you sure?” The Welsh Lion asked her, with a genuine smile. ”Thank you so much…. and I know it will be okay. You are both here next term, and Lance, Suri and Rusty… I’ll just miss those who are leaving, that’s all.” She nodded a little, as if that explained everything. ”Promise I’ll be here for you next term if you need me…. Both of you.” Another small quick smile and Marsha turned away, giving them their privacy (mostly) to talk… though she couldn’t help a larger, more genuine Sha smile when they agreed to go on a date over the Summer. She even bounced in her seat a little bit.


Marsha clapped in all of the right places as Botros’ made his speech. She wasn’t particularly listening though, instead looking around the table for AJ. She had to be here somewhere - maybe she was sitting slightly further away since she had unconsciously sat down relatively near to Adi and Benny? Not that she had paid them much attention since she had sat down, only now looking around at the people surrounding her. Anyone who looked in her direction got a small smile, though she wasn’t really feeling it. She needed to talk to Lance or AJ… even Suri would snap her out of this weird mood she was in.

Oh look… Now Professor Flamsteed was in on it… Yes yes. Gryffindor won the house cup, they were amazing… but the graduates were the reason she was sad. Where were the others? She really…. reallly needed somebody to distract her. She couldn’t keep feeling like this until she left school tomorrow… She needed to remember that she was going home to be with Alis and her baby brother Rhys… that Lance, Suri, AJ, Rusty would all still be here next year, not including the other amazing people and Professors who would also be returning. Why could she not be happy? That would be perfect.


Moving to rest her chin in the palm of her hand, Marsha pulled her attention away from everything else that was going on around her… to be pulled from her day dreams by Angel. Blinking a little, she smiled gently at the fifth year. ”Hi Angel. I’m okay, a little sad.” A little sad was down playing her feelings a liiittle bit, but she didn’t want to upset anyone else. ”How are you? Glad to be finished with your OWLs?” She asked, softly. Her eyes roamed the table again as she searched for Angel’s identical sister, AJ.

Another term at Hogwarts had come to an end. This was the year that she expected to be the most sad about being over, but she was feeling quite the opposite. Sure, she was going to miss those that were graduating, but she was ready for her summer back home. She had plans to hang out with Sha, and there would be baseball, swimming and tacos in her life. What more could a girl ask for? Well, unicorns. A girl could always ask for unicorns, but that wouldn't be happening for her this summer. In fact, maybe next year she would just march her sixth year self right into the forest and get her own unicorn. That was the way things worked. If you wanted something done right, you had to do it yourself. She didn't need anybody to get a unicorn for her. NOPE. AJ could make this happen all on her own, and she would. It was decided. Besides, Zander wasn't going to be around anymore so she wouldn't feel bad about totally messing up his little prefect day. So, to whoever was going to be prefect next... it sucks to be you. It probably was going to suck to be Airey too. Whoops. Sorry boys, but a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do.

As she made her way over to her house table that *AHEM* had won the cup once more, a smile spread across her face. She was proud to be apart of this house. The zany and bold Gryffindors really knew how to have a good time, and AJ was glad to be apart of such an awesome group. Speaking of winning the house cup every year... she was pretty sure that started happening as soon as she joined the house of lions. Coincidence? PFFT! You're welcome, Gryffindors. You are welcome.

Familiar faces everywhere. Seriously, AJ had some type of connection with practically everybody at this table. Some of them were stronger than others, but she had mad love for everybody. In fact, as she walked by she patted people on the backs, ruffled their hair while throwing out random greetings. "Sup?" Hi, hello, what it is, yo... so on and so forth.

Ava got a thumbs up and a goofy grin. Once you float people in the air, you sort of just get a connection with that person. You know? Zeke got a nod, and she was just about to walk past to the next person when a thought crossed her mind. "Future prefect... calling it!" She said with a wink as she made her way down the table.

Benny and Adi were both sitting together and she clapped them both of the back with either hand. "Congrats, boys. I wish you guys the best." Peace, love and tacos. Really, AJ didn't have any hard feelings towards either of them. They had both been her best friends at one point, and she enjoyed all the time they had spent together. She was a better person because of her experience with them, and she was loving just being AJ Valentine. There was more to her than being the girlfriend of a prefect.

When she saw Zander a weird sensation swept through her belly. She bit her bottom lip, and before she knew it her feet were running towards him. It was as if they had a mind of their own. Her arms wrapped around him, and Zander was getting an official bone crushing hug from none other than AJ. Feels took over man. That sort of thing happened a lot with her. She was a spur of the moment kind of girl. "I'mgunnamissyou..." fell out of her mouth in a jumbled mess. "Good prefect," she said as she patted his head like the good doggie that Zander Adair was. A moment later, she released the older lion and continued on down the line. As if she always did this sort of thing, and it was totally normal. Which, in reality, it was... for her.

Her sister and super good friend Candice was next in the AJ love fest. She squeezed herself in a non existent seat between the girls. "Sup ladies?" These were two chicks that she would be getting more time with and one of the girls would be staying in the same house as her come this summer - two guesses who - so she didn't feel the need to cling to either one of them, but she really enjoyed both of their company. Candice was always down for whatever AJ wanted to do, and it wasn't every day that you made a friend like that.

Oh, the speech was starting which meant that she needed to cut her love fest short, or at least hit the pause button on it. Deciding that she needed a proper seat, she crouched and duck walked herself down to an empty seat. Her thinking was that she wouldn't draw attention to herself, but in reality she was probably doing just to opposite. Her eyes found Marsha, and AJ beamed from ear to ear. Sliding into an open seat by her, AJ located and squeezed the younger girl's hand. "Everything okay?" It obviously wasn't. AJ knew Marsha well enough to know when something was wrong, but she didn't think it was anything bad. More than likely it was the whole end of term thing, because loads of people seemed to be sad. AJ just wasn't. She was happy by nature, and she decided that being happy was way better than being sad.

Cutty looked at Zander with a bit of a blank look. What was he on about? Oh! The kid.

Was that his sister?


He ducked his head out of the way of irrelevant witch no. 3,497 because oncoming body part and watched as she latched onto Zander and hugged him tight and wondered -with a smile -if it was possible to vomit even having eaten nothing at all. He swung his legs out in time to see a bow heading right for him. With his wand in reach he reacted instinctively, casted at it and sent the butterfly flying off. Botros came to the end of his speech and that meant food. "See yew cats lateh. I'm headin' back to the snake table." He turned and blew a kiss at Miss Hanover and was off.

That smirk. It caused Sabel's eyebrows to take a high trip on his forehead. Combined with that question, it just meant one thing. Trouble. "....At least try to keep it unbroken."

He was going to move on, clapping the kid on the shoulder once again, when the question hit him in the chest. That. Right. Uhm. He patted the boy's shoulder a few more times as he thought. He hadn't forgotten persay. It was just.... "I'll be stopping over in the next few days. We'll chat about things then."

Meanwhile, there was food and friends and the last thing Browne likely wanted to be doing was talking to his Professor. So, he gave one final pat to the shoulder along with a "Enjoy the feast" before moving on.



Which meant he should probably stop traumatizing Adair now. So, he reigned in his grin and returned the amicable nod. Food was here, and he wouldn't want the kid to loose his appetite.

Still, despite all his teasing, the nod said two things quite clearly: 'Congratulations' and 'Good luck'.



It was Airey's little salute that caught his attention next. It looked rather reserved for the man, but perhaps he was in the midst of epic congratulations and was worried about being interrupted. Or that Sabel might toss a cat at him.

In any case, not wanting to startle the man any further out of his socks, Sabel returned the salute with a two-finger flick off his temple.



And no sooner was he two steps down the table, when Burton halted him with her greeting and question. Sabel blinked at her, as if she had spoken gibberish for a moment. Yoongi was quick to follow suit, with the implications. He...right. He hadn't told them the news, had he? It was an internal debate as to whether or not to break it to them now. But it was hard to avoid a direct question.

He worked a small smile onto his lips, bowing his head slightly. "Thank you for being such a fantastic participant, Miss. Burton. And you, Mr. Yoongi. Your skills are improving rapidly." As for that awkward topic of returns, Sabel spared a glance around and let out a breath of air. "The dueling club is likely to run next year, but that will ultimately be up to your new Professor. I...unfortunately won't be returning to Hogwarts as I have some personal matters to attend to."

There it was. Nice. Sweet and informative.

Now that it was out of the way, he gave the young kids a mischievous grin. "But I expect you all to knock the socks off your next Professor." And they could take that as they would. "And Hyland, best save that promise for your new Professor. I'm sure they'll be just as eager to accept the challenge."



Out of the corner of his eye, he caught Umbridge making mushy faces at him and waving. In a moment of pure childish behavior, Sabel turned his head and stuck his tongue out at her. It was immediately followed up by a big grin and belt of laughter.

Merlin he was going to miss these kids.

Adi could see Marsha but he couldn’t exactly bear to talk to her right then. He might end up loosing all his self- control and cry his eyes out. Not that he was afraid to cry in front of anyone. His pride and ego wasn’t big. Anyway, he would have his last run with her in the morning. Last run at Hogwarts, that is, not as in the last, LAST run. There would be plenty more in the future he was sure.

The Puff dude suddenly felt a hand on his back and that voice that he would recognise anywhere. He flinched slightly, not because of the clap but because of the guilt he felt every time he saw AJ. Yeah, almost half a dozen months and he still wasn’t over the bad feelings for hurting her. But hey, he wasn’t going to let that get the best of him. “Hiya, AJ!’’ Adi turned to face her. “Thanks! Good luck to you too for your final two years.’’ Yep, he really meant it.

Ava wanted to shake hands on it? SURE! Adi grasped her extended one in his. “DEAL!” he told her rather enthusiastically and keeping any and all mentions of pranks from spilling out of his mouth. “IIIIIIIIIIIIIII will try to be. I’ve got to make you guys proud, right? Especially the little sister.’’ He poked her lightly in her side. “Definitely! I have a feeling Teddy will be competitive at it.’’ Yep, even though the Ravenclaw was a bookworm, Adi could still see him giving himself and Ava a run for their money. Anyway… “I’ll be in Diagon Alley over the summer so hopefully I’ll see you guys there.’’


And looky! Man Crush Professor Dakest! “Professor!’’ Adi waved at him to get his attention. “It’s been an awesome two years of classes,’’ he said when he had gotten it. “Thanks for the help with my Patronus and stuff… everything else I mean.’’

Adi just grinned at his boyfriend in reply. No need to thank him. He was just SO DAMN PROUD! Couldn’t everyone just see this grin that was not leaving his face? He watched in silence as Flamsteed handed Benny an envelope, his curiosity high as usual. “Yeah, open it, Benny,’’ he encouraged. And while Benny did that… “Professor… Admiral Airey, I’m gonna miss you and your classes. You had some of the most fun ones. Those activities really did help me to learn better.’’ This was so true. “So, uh, thanks for seven awesome years of Astronomy.’’ Yep, he knew Flamsteed wasn’t into all the sentiments so he was just going to keep things short here.

Caught out.

TheyJanelle was going to be caught out! ... Zeke did his best to appear as though everything was as it should be - which wasn't difficult, considering it was FEAST time and people were usually crazy at feast time. End year, emotions, hormones, all those things. Somehow to his surprise though, Janelle remained fairly well collected. Like, she wasn't being as much of a nutter as he thought she would, all things considered. A part of him wanted to pull a face or something though, because watching her crack was too amusing.

"You know me, Sir," he shrugged innocently, "just clowning around." He side-bumped Janelle, because if she laughed right now, it'd be HILARIOUS.

But then... serious stuff.

His sister would be sending stuff... SOON! He beamed, excited for what might come.

"Awesome! I'm looking forward to it, and sir, thank you..." like REALLY. THANK YOU. BEST SUMMER HOLIDAYS PRESENT EVER. Cause those were a thing right?

He saw her before he heard her, and so midway returning AJ's nod, Zeke's expression changed to one of confusion and all he could do was stick his tongue out at her. Tease.

He DID look over his shoulder to his side though, in case she might have directed the statement at someone else. He couldn't think who though... and she had been looking right at him.

No.

No.

HIM? .... no.

Professor Flamsteed was crazy sure, but he wasn't stupid.

Really? Could he?

Naaaaaaaaaaaaah.



That look. He knew that look, and after getting that look for six years, it had little effect on him. Zeke smiled brightly instead, cause YOLO. Keeping things unbroken seemed a chore though, and having them broken wasn't so bad, "Nothing a good episkey can't fix, Sir." It was the truth, and yes that may have been a little cheek... but it was FEAST and he was already hyped up on sugar.

Another clap... followed by patting.

Patting, patting was NOT a good sign. It was what people did when they felt sorry for others, or didn't know how else to console them. Was Sabel dropping him? Zeke's smile faded and his brows rose as he considered what Sabel said next. STOP OVER. CHAT.... coupled with patting and he was convinced he wouldn't be getting ANY tutelage over the break after all.

He'd have said something in reply, but disappointment had a way of crushing words. On top of that, he was told to enjoy the feast. "Yeah, sure. You too."

Zander had to TRY VERY HARD to stifle any laughter as Dora made her way over to the other side of the table, whilst trying to elbow Cutty in the process. Of course if she had actually elbowed him, it would've been another story of 'what do i do in this situation', but as Cutty was a very quick man this was just very funny. Dora is a fighter, that's for sure.

He couldn't help but grin, wiggling an arm free in order to give Dora a squeeze back. "I'm gonna miss you, kid." AHem. So much for staying away from the whole cheesy thing. If Kevin was here, he'd totally be frowning at all of this.

Zander through a smile over at Cutty as the boy began to turn around. "See ya around, Cutty!" He meant it to. Friends. They were friends after all the weird interactions.

"Let's enjoy the rest this though?" Meaning no more focusing on the fact that he was going to leave her behind here. Because those were very depressing thoughts.


When he was attacked by behind, he didn't even have to ask to figure out who it was. There was only one person in Gryffindor House who'd do this sort of thing. "AJ," he laughed in greeting. Though uh, his bones were being crushed at the moment, yes. "Keep in touch, yeah?" It was a weird, saying goodbye to people. Not knowing if it was goodbye for the moment or forever? Some he couldn't be more relieved to leave behind, but others... Man, he'd really miss AJ. For all her crazy antics and never-ending insane ideas... She was one of a kind. And a really good friend. He tried to say all that with a simple look, not knowing how to voice the sentiment without being a complete cheeseball about it. He didn't want to have to tell people he'd miss them. But he wanted her to know. Things wouldn't be the same without her presence lighting up the room. "Hogwarts is yours next year," and the year after. She was going to rule the place, he knew it.

As Zander was already up and out of his seat, it took milliseconds to respond to Professor Flamsteed's open arm gesture by replicating it himself and going in for a-- Uh. Putting his arms behind his head as well. That's all that happened here. Just two men with arms behind their heads. That would've been real embarrassing. Zander almost hugged a Professor. He almost hugged a Professor Flamsteed who never almost hugged anyone?

Um.

Right. "Thank you, Professor," his eyes filled with fulfillment, was it? That's all he wanted. Honestly, ever after the incident from Fifth Year. He wanted to make Flamsteed proud again and.... Now that it happened, he felt on top of the world. Zander Adair was going places. Officially. And yes, this letter would most likely be framed. Ahem. As proof. He gave his astronomy Professor a look of utmost gratitude, not knowing how else to speak without being redundant.

"Oh Merlin," he said reaching out to take the letter from the man's hand. "I almost forgot about this..." He scratched his head. Ahem. He'd wait to read it later, incase it was utterly embarrassing.

The amicable nod brought on a sweet sense of relief. Was this a truce? Could they have a truce now? Zander was really sorry about those things he said in the man's office earlier. Ahem. They were meant to be COMPLIMENTS not insults, okay? He just wasn't good at thinking sentences out properly. Ahem. Sorry. Lessons from Brown were needed. Ahem.

Zander smiled warmly at the man, one that would hopefully say something like 'Thanks' and 'You're a good Professor' or something like that. Though uh, maybe his silent conversations were just as unclear as his voiced ones.

.....

And just as he turned around he heard a bit of what Sophie was on about and-- W H A T?

WHAT?!?!

APPRENTICE????

THIS WAS AMAZING THIS WAS GREAT THIS WAS HER DREAM THIS WAS-- Maybe the wrong time to do what he had been planning all along. He slipped a hand into his robe pocket, again checking that the object was still there--it was--but with Sophie's plans coming together... And his plans coming together... Would their plans change?

He tried not to think about it, however, letting go of the object in his pocket and putting a large smile on his face. He was happy. They had got what they wanted. Everyone had gotten what they wanted. Things were going to be okay after all.

He'd let her have her moment with Flamsteed, though. He'd grab her on the train if not after she was done telling Flamsteed. Everything was gonna be great. And at least Kevin would be relieved to hear that plans changed? Yeah. It was fine. He was happy. Truly happy.

Yoongi let Marsha rest her head against his shoulder as he talked to Norah. He did turn to look at the younger Gryffindor when she spoke again and he smiled. "That's the spirit!" he said, beaming at the girl and clapped her on her back when she said that she'll still have people around her.

While Norah was still talking to Zander, Yoongi had turned his attention to Professor Dakest, waiting for his answer for his duel challenge next term. What he said however, made him frown. "You're leaving?" he asked as he stood up from his seat. He wanted to ask all kinds of questions. Why was he leaving? What was this personal stuff he had to deal with? But if there was one thing he had learned from him was that he didn't tell personal stuff to students. So, for the first time, Yoongi kept his mouth shut and held out his hand. "You were an awesome Professor, Sir. I learned loads" from classes to dueling. "Thanks for everything and i wish you good luck" he smiled brightly. Apparently, he wasnt the type to get sad over goodbyes. He saw the seventh years graduations as an award for finally growing up, he had a date with Norah over the summer. Nope, nothing could spoil his good mood.

Wait, Norah was born in France? Yoongi looked at her in surprise at this kind of information. Than again, he was born in south korea before he was adopted. "i went to Paris last year" he said as he took a bite from his chicken wing. "My sisters made me go up the eiffletower" he shivered "it was horrible... " he sighed loudly, wondering what his sisters had in mind this year. "So you have brothers?"

It's gonna be awesome, seeing Adi playing for professional Gobstones player. "See you again in summer, and don't forget that my birthday is next month!" Just a friendly reminded, so he could send her (and Teddy too, of course) a little birthday present. And she tried not to blush more when Zander mentioned that he's gonna miss her... but again, the young lioness failed to hide her red tomato blushing cheeks.

Professor Dakest is leaving?

Ava just looked at that man in disbelief. "Couldn't you stay a bit longer? You're such a great professor." She said and showed her big sad puppy eyes. Well, who's gonna teach the Defense Against the Dark Arts again? Who's gonna run the dueling club? There would be a new Professor but she was 100% sure that those new person wouldn't be as awesome as the ex-auror. She stood up and walked closer to that man, gave him a huuuuuuge farewell hug. "You're the best Professor that I have ever had." She spoke in low voice and tried not to shed any tears.

Benny felt the clap on his back same as Adi, but he hadn't registered who it was just as quickly. Familiar yes, but it took a second to realize AJ had come to wish them luck, something he hadn't really expected. "Thanks..." he responded, giving her an awkward smile in return. The badger's words said it all and he couldn't get himself to repeat them, feeling weird to speak with her.

---------------------------------------------
Okay...yeah...open it up.

That would be the way to find out. Benny just hadn't been sure about opening it up here. But he did as Professor Flamsteed instructed with his words and brows, and Adi encoyraged from beside him. His fingers slipping to undo the furry and scaly seal to get it open before slipping the parchment out to read. A scholarship...he had been granted a sch--woah, nothing to sneeze at was right. The galleons helping for school and such would certainly allow him and Adi to be more comfortable at their place with their finances.

It took him a couple of moments to recover before handing it to Adi wordlessly. At his boyfriend's words, Benny was reminded of the gifts of thanks he had for certain professors. Slipping a hand into his robe pockets, he quickly found a painted rock he had been looking for, offering the lion up to Flamsteed. "I wanted to give you this in appreciation of all you've done as head of house and everything. Um..figured this was one cat you wouldn't mind."

Cat...lion...same family.

Marsha couldn’t help looking at Cutty. She couldn’t. He was like a flame and she the moth, and she didn’t know who would catch her attention next year… especially if. No. Not going there, hopes were a bad thing in a thing like this. Catching his eye, she saw him get off of Zander’s lap and she couldn’t help but smile as he spoke to them and then SEARCHED for her. Blinking, Marsha watched as he found her in the crowd and sent her a kiss. A KISS. From Cutty Mordaunt. What. Even. Gulping, she smiled and blew him a kiss back, heart racing at being noticed. Hehehehehhehe.


Lifting her head from Yoongi’s shoulder again, she smiled a little bit wider as AJ slipped into the seat next to her and instantly squeezed her hand. What was …. even happening in the last five minutes? Smiling and blushing ever so slightly, she turned her hand over so she could slip her hand into AJ’s. ”Not really… I’m just sad about all of my friends who are leaving.” She gave her fellow Gryffindor a small smile. ”And I’m unhappy that I’m sad… I much prefer being happy.” Says softly to AJ only, looking at the older girl. ”And then I feel bad for hating that I feel sad that my friends are leaving… and it’s a spiral.” She explained for the first time.

Sighing a little, she nipped her bottom lip. ”It’s okay to be sad that they are leaving, but happy for them moving on right?” She looked up at AJ through her lashes, feeling a little lost. She hadn’t really known any of last years seventh years.

What was this now? His name from a different direction.

Turning his head, Sabel's gaze landed on Rehman. A small smile touched his lips as he nodded in response. "It's be a slice teaching you lot." And why not? He extended his hand for a shake. "Good luck out there."

[/spoiler]

Episkey, eh? Sabel nearly rolled his eyes. "Well, at least you've learned something."

Not like he could stop kids from doing what they were going to do. What he could, and hopefully did do, was give them the tools to get out of hairy situations. Episkey hadn't been his though, so whoever thought to teach that to the kid, he was going to have to thank them.

What was not okay was the fact that Zeke's grin suddenly turned sullen, like spoiled milk. Sabel nearly nudged the boy's face into the nearest soup bowl. Instead, he gave him a small elbow nudge to the shoulder. "Hey. Chin up. We'll talk."

It wasn't a 'no'. It wasn't a 'yes'. It was a 'things came up'. But he wasn't going to dwell on it any longer. The sooner he moved on, the sooner Zeke could be distracted by good things, like friends and food. So, with a final nod, he did move on.



Ah good. No hard feelings or lingering terrors then. His job here was done.



What Sabel appreciated the most, over the handshake - which he returned - was the lack of questions. It was a display of respect and understanding that left him with a grateful smile. "Best of luck to you as well, Hyland. I'll be watching to see that you don't end up on the wrong side of the law."

Cause if he did, there'd be a certain old Professor visiting whatever cell he was put up in. With a grin, Sabel took his hand back. Of course, he didn't expect it. If anything was going to get Yoongi in trouble, it would be his hair.



That look. He was starting to dread that look.

But, instead of responding it to a deadpan stare, Sabel worked a little smile onto his lips. "Unfortunately not. I'm sure whoever takes my place will be great, or greater." He was banking on the later.

And then. There was hugging. Again. Sabel blinked at the top of the kid's head before sighing and returning the hug. "Thank you, Burton."

He wasn't going to say he was going to miss them, because if he did, there might be a lot of sad emotions that really had no place at the feast.