This was a very big day.

Her mother had told her to keep a low profile at the start of the year, and she'd really tried very hard. She'd gone to all her lessons and done all her work and everything and not caused any problems at all. To be fair, it probably helped that this was an actual magical school; that hadn't been the case at her primary school. Here, there just wasn't the same fuss if you accidentally exploded the odd window or whatever.

But the point was, she'd waited long enough. They were nearly into December now, and Sinead was bursting to air the idea she'd been nursing since practically the first week of term. She wasn't entirely sure if Mr. McLeod was the right person to approach about it, but he was her Head of House and there was the advantage that she actually knew him, unlike the Headmistress. Besides, he seemed to like her well enough- he gave her points in Flying once, right?

With this in mind, she put on her best polite-model-student smile and knocked carefully on the door of the hut.

A typical day in the Hut of Mr. McLeod was a relaxing one. After keeping the grounds in check, the students out of the forest line, among other things he just about earned it. After baking some fresh brownies, something he got to learning from his little girl, Justin reclined in his chair to enjoy some.

Welp, that was the plan before he heard some knocking. A vistor, Justin brushed off the crumbs before getting up to answer it. "Ah, Miss Sinead." Why it was one of his own students, a natural flyer. "What brings you here today?" She had his attention now.

Mr. McLeod didn't seem annoyed to be disturbed in his time off, or anything- that was just as well, because Sinead was hoping he was going to be in a good mood. Nothing for it except just to ask him straight out, though- wasting time wasn't going to change anything.
"Good afternoon, Sir," she said brightly, hands clasped behind her back as she tilted her head up to look at her teacher. Ugh. Being short sucked. "I hope you're having a nice day. I came to ask about moving into second year after the holidays. Or third year, at the end of this year. I work really hard in all my lessons and I find them easy, and I think I'm at the top of my class- I thought about it lots and I think I should be ready."

She opened her mouth to say more, but remembering all the times she'd been berated for talking too much and showing off, she promptly shut it again. She'd put her proposition forwards. Now she just had to hope Mr. McLeod would take her seriously. People always told her she looked too serious for somebody her age, but somehow that didn't seem to matter when something important was happening. They still thought she was just a stupid little kid who was too young to know what was good for her. Well, that wouldn't happen this time, if she had anything to do with it.

Well, well. Often times when visitors came to Mr. McLeod's abode he was in for a surprise and this time was no different. As Groundskeeper he had to wonder about kiddies running into the forest or some help outside. As Head of House he had schedules, dorm assignments, career advice, examinations and graduating students added to the list. As Flying Instructor, well, that was more obvious to tell. All of such went into his head before opening the door and listening to the first year's question.

Advanced placement. Huh. "So you don't want to be a first year anymore.." An interesting case. Not only did this one want to skip a year, but two years in fact if possible. Skipping a year was a big deal to her apparently, one such that would require getting her file. Something that couldn't be done outside without either freezing from the weather. "Come in Sinead, you can take a brownie if you like from the table." Stepping aside so the little one can come in and take a seat.

On his way back to his chair he summoned her file straight from the filing cabinet before sitting. He waited until she took in everything and got comfortable enough before getting right to business. "It's not everyday I hear of one wanting to advance into their studies. Especially in their first year, that's very mature and responsible of you." Before opening her file to take a quick glance before looking back at her. "Was there any other reason for you wanting to advance?" It seemed like she was holding something back to him, and knowing everything was beneficial in this case.

"Thank you, Professor." She stepped inside, carefully wiping her shoes on the mat as she went. It was surreal to be literally inside a teacher's house, and she studied the interior as closely as she thought she could without looking nosy. It was all very... rustic. But that was probably to be expected of a groundskeeper who literally lived in a hut out in the school grounds. It made her weirdly confused to see pictures of his family hung up around the place; somehow, she'd never imagined teachers to have lives outside the school. Did they live here too? Surely they couldn't, she'd never seen them... but then, would she even realise if she had?

After a moment of holding her brownie as her eyes darted around the space, she realised he was probably waiting for her to sit down and so she took a place on the edge of an armchair, nibbling on one corner of the brownie as Mr. McLeod spoke. Was her name on that folder? A whole file about her? She hoped it had her grades in it; that might help to convince him. Actually, she'd brought some of her reports from her teachers in her bag. Just in case.

She felt a little spike of pride at his words even if he hadn't necessarily meant them as a compliment. Well, she was way more mature than the rest of her year, wasn't she?
"That's the main reason, sir. I suppose I don't feel like I really belong in first year. Everyone else always wants to run around shouting and playing games and it's annoying because I'm trying to work out a new spell. And I don't have any friends in my year really, so don't worry, I won't miss them. I think I'll get to learn better if I'm in Second Year. And I don't need to be doing everything as slowly as we do in class. I just want to be as good a witch as possible." She was fiercely earnest in her arguments, which she'd thought about a lot beforehand- though she wasn't articulating them in quite so orderly a manner as she'd planned. Still, though- she couldn't help but take herself extremely seriously.

So why else did this one wish to move up another year? It was an endearing fantasy to some he imagined, being so advanced they could have the opportunity to graduate even early and hang out with the older crowd whilst being amongst them. It was a fantasy unfortunately at Hogwarts to skip a year, as even one of the brightest alumna didn't achieve that. In facct, no one in record history has ever done so. Perhaps this witch could be the first?

Gathering from her reasons, Justin sat there still listening not making any decisions before she finished. Afterward he nodded in understanding, "Alright Sinead, I can see those being an issue with remaining in your current year." Starting out before setting her file down, "You do have a few nice comments from the Professors regarding your efforts in class, so I have no reason to believe you aren't taking this serious."

Now then, "Unfortunately, these comments alone won't be enough to consider moving you up another year. Especially before your first end-of-the-year exams.. I'm afraid that this will only cause harm to your current grades. Overtime should you make it through the two exams at once there will be a widening gap from the daily lessons you missed out on prior along with theories. What's on the exams covers the entire year but in a summarized format, with other sections not added that will require constant catching up for you all the way into your fourth year where the work will start piling up even more in preparation for O.W.L.s year." That was the big reason. "In order words, at best you'll move from a bright and hard-working first year to an average-achieving second year, risking below average as a third year at present." Too much stress for a young one such as her if she wanted to still be the best.

Of course, he didn't want to crush her aspirations. "Now I know it must be difficult to work with some of your peers who aren't taking things as serious at the moment. Overtime they will, I can assure you." But he didn't want to just focus on what she thought of her classmates. She was here for herself, after all. "What I can recommend you for however at the moment is to take part in some more activities. Since you want to be the best witch as possible, being well-rounded in trying new things such as sports or clubs and a few of the advanced courses can help. " Now he had another question for her, "Do you have a favourite subject?" Perhaps she already had plans after school already.

Sinead was more than pleased to see her Head of House was at least hearing her out, and seemed to be taking her seriously; clearly, she’d made the right choice in coming to him. The Headmistress would probably have to get involved at some point, sure, but it would definitely help her case to have somebody on her side already. She nodded along to Justin’s first sentences, frowning in fierce concentration as her gaze skipped down to the files in his hand before back up to his face. It all sounded promising- yet she could feel a “but” coming along, some forbidding note in his tone which suggested he wasn’t going to approve her request despite all the excellent reasons he had just agreed with. Well! He’d see if she went down without a fight.

And sure enough, next minute he confirmed her suspicions. It was all well and good to tell herself she had to stay calm to have the best chance of Mr. McLeod agreeing with her, but that wasn’t so easy when after pretending to be all attentive and helpful he was now basically just telling her no.
“You can’t tell I won’t be able to cope before I even try! I could catch up on one year of lessons easy. I bet I could already pass Second Year transfiguration exams! Some of the spells I’ve learned don’t even come up in lessons till third year. And they’re not even that hard.” An average- achieving second year?! She was confident she would never be average at anything. Except maybe Care of Magical Creatures, but that was just the lesson where people too stupid to do actual played with animals. And she knew all the theory, which was the important part anyway.

Seeing he was trying to help her- insofar as he was willing, she took a deep breath and dug her fists into her lap, reminding herself not to get angry. Or “stroppy”, as her mother would call it.
“Maybe they will, eventually. But it might not be until we get to OWLs. Everyone is always saying nothing matters till fourth year, but it matters to me.” And their actions certainly seemed to back up their words. The idea of extra activities wasn’t necessarily a bad one… well, she couldn’t see herself becoming a prime athlete, but if she could do extra lessons outside of class that would be good. Even if it wouldn’t stop her being bored in normal lessons. Then again- if she already knew the material, why should she have to go to class? She mulled over the tempting prospect of skipping for a minute, before dismissing it regretfully. She certainly wanted to be Prefect in due course, and probably Head Girl as well; that would never happen if she got a reputation for cutting class.
“I mean, I guess I could try that,” she said slightly grudgingly. “I do like flying, but not really Quidditch, I don’t have very good aim. I’d be more interested in things related to lessons.” A note of hope entered her voice as she contemplated his question; maybe if she could prove herself out of classes, she’d be able to move up a year eventually. “Transfiguration is my favourite. And Arithmancy. Maybe I could take extra courses in those. Or- Professor, could I go to Second Year classes just in some subjects? I don’t mind staying behind in Care of Magical Creatures or Herbology. Then I can take the exams for both years at the end of the year and if I pass them both, I could move up?” Timetabling issues did not cross her mind as a substantial barrier to ambition. And she was sadly incapable of taking “no” for an answer, the practical impossibility of her requests not really registering through her single-minded determination.

Carlton's head was FILLED with thoughts. Most of them were unwanted. Like the flashbacks of the monster, or the small jolts of fear that shot through him every time he was left alone in the castle. The only reason why he was alone now, was because he was on a mission. The young Slytherin had a whole lot of questions that needed to be answered and since his go-to mentor Rooney was... Not in the best place right now, he'd decided to talk to his Head of House.

Merlin.

He was nervous. He had never gone to see his Head of House about anything. He'd given him a small wave in November which had gone unnoticed. And that was the only time Carlton had tried to make contact with Mr. McLeod outside of class.

Until now. At least the nervousness distracted him from the anxiety that had dominated his behaviour these last few days. Carlton walked up the few steps to the Hut and stood outside for a good 15 minutes to muster up the courage he needed. Maybe Mr. McLeod knew who he was since he had been a top student the entire year (which was ridiculous) and still was. Even though he'd missed classes when he was in the portal...

Standing outside the Hut a thought hit him that his Head of House could walk up right behind him and find him standing awkwardly outside and maybe suspect him of spying.

EEK!

Knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock!

No turning back now.

The Head of House couldn't say he wasn't expecting her to be upset by his answer. This student had arrived with high hopes and expectations only to have some turned down, but not without reason, Justin made sure of that. He did not react of course to her outburst, merely waiting for her to let it all out. If anything, she caught herself on her behaviour quickly enough for them to continue on her future plans. It was what she came for after all.

"Now that's the attitude I expect. Everything leading up to your O.W.Ls does matter despite what you may hear from others." Now what subjects did she prefer at the moment. "Arithmancy and Transfiguration, now those are fine subjects. Do whatever is necessary to make your other subjects match up." Jotting that down as she continued her other interests and suggestions. "You're never going to give up on this, are you?" Asking with a slight grin.

"Don't give up that drive of yours, alright?" It was prudent to point this out before he had to repeat himself, "Now as this is your first year and only with a number of months of records in your grade history, sitting for older year exams at the end of the year won't be possible." Summoning a neat pamplet from one of his cabinets. "With that said, you may want to consider your plans during the summer. There are magical camps that focus on academics heavily, you just might happen to find like-minded individuals like yourself with the same goals. Some even managed used the skills learned there to advance further in their schooling. But it's not an easy task, as I'm sure you know, no one has ever advanced a year officially at this school." Handing it over for her to check out a number of locations, some classes being held at private wizarding schools, some in their own institution. "Talk it over with your parents for their approval and I'll be happy to recommend you a spot over there. On the condition you can maintain no less than an O on your following tests." Now how did that sound?

Quote:

Originally Posted by potterobsessionist

Carlton's head was FILLED with thoughts. Most of them were unwanted. Like the flashbacks of the monster, or the small jolts of fear that shot through him every time he was left alone in the castle. The only reason why he was alone now, was because he was on a mission. The young Slytherin had a whole lot of questions that needed to be answered and since his go-to mentor Rooney was... Not in the best place right now, he'd decided to talk to his Head of House.

Merlin.

He was nervous. He had never gone to see his Head of House about anything. He'd given him a small wave in November which had gone unnoticed. And that was the only time Carlton had tried to make contact with Mr. McLeod outside of class.

Until now. At least the nervousness distracted him from the anxiety that had dominated his behaviour these last few days. Carlton walked up the few steps to the Hut and stood outside for a good 15 minutes to muster up the courage he needed. Maybe Mr. McLeod knew who he was since he had been a top student the entire year (which was ridiculous) and still was. Even though he'd missed classes when he was in the portal...

Standing outside the Hut a thought hit him that his Head of House could walk up right behind him and find him standing awkwardly outside and maybe suspect him of spying.

EEK!

Knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock!

No turning back now.

There was no doubt on Justin's duties that kept him busy. Despite that he always managed to be in his Hut in between class hours that made him easy to find. Today however given the recent events, he was out and about.

Not for long though as he walked towards his Hut, carrying his bag before noticing a young one in front. Oh dear, had he been waiting long? Making sure his footsteps were pronounced over the mowed grass, "Can I help you, young lad?" It was difficult to tell which student this was from behind, after all.

Carlton spun around to face his Head of House. The young boy (or lad) pointed at the door. "I knocked..." Just to clarify he wasn't just eaves dropping or something. Ahem.

He shifted his weight uncomfortably. "Erm, I don't know, Mr. McLeod." He said, fiddling with his green Slytherin scarf. He was nervous. This was his Head of House. That was HUGE. More than huge.

"I was wondering about the portal, sir."

Ya know, the portal that snatched up kids (including himself) all around school and had kept him locked in there with a monster for 5 days? That portal.

Ah, now Justin knew this young man as he showed his face. A soft smile appeared on the Head of House's face, "Carlton, what an unexpected pleasure. Come on in and have a seat, I'll fix you a drink." Taking his wand to lazily flick at the door to open it, waiting until the young man entered before following after.

By the time Justin entered in, he set his bag aside before heading to the kitchen/living room area where a hot kettle awaited on the stove. Using it to fill up some two cups of tea for the both of them. "So what's on your mind?" Asking before setting one down on the table for him. Rightfully this kid had a lot on his mind regarding the portals and wanted some answers he bet.

Carlton straightened his back with pride when Mr. McLeod called him by his first name. His first name. He instantly felt more relaxed as he stepped inside the hut. It was weird imagining the professors as actual people with real lives outside of Hogwarts, which was why it was always interesting to visit their offices. Or... Huts. He glanced around him and followed the professor to sit down by the table. His bag filled with all the textbooks for all the classes was dropped heavily on the floor next to him. He was aware of the fact that he didn't need to carry all of his belongings around him at all times, but you never knew when you needed to look something up. Which was why he was carrying a mobile library.

So there he was, casually sipping some tea with his Head of House. He'd run back to the Common Room and tell EVERYONE. What was on his mind though?

WELLLLLLLLLLLL....

"Why did the monster want to eat me, Mr. McLeod?" Just throwing that out there. "Why did it snatch me out of nowhere? And why does it live at Hogwarts? And where is it now? How long has it lived here? Will it be back next year?" So, yes. There was a lot of his mind and these questions about the monster wasn't really what was actually bugging him.

"And..." The young snake held the warm cup of tea with both of his hands. This was embarrassing to say. Especially to someone he admired so much. He really just wanted his Head of House's approval. Why did the stupid portal thing had to happen? "My wand didn't work." He mumbled, hanging his head in shame. "My magic didn't work." Maybe he wasn't meant to be at Hogwarts at all, if he couldn't fight monsters using his magic then what good of a wizard was he? It didn't matter that he did well in classes if at the end of the day he couldn't actually put that knowledge to use. He didn't want to be a burden to the Slytherin house, he really didn't! Perhaps he shouldn't have received his acceptance letter and perhaps the sorting hat was wrong for putting him in Slytherin.

The Head of House sat casually, listening to the young snake's questions. It was no wonder he had to have been worried. "I can't give a answer to how long the monster has been there and why since we're still figuring things out. The Ministry of Magic however, is involved now and you can bet they won't let the monster stay another term here." That ought to strike a few of those questions now. He could tell however that something else was bugging him with his eye contact slipping away.

Justin liked to think of himself as a Papa Snake, given not so recent news he had been much softer with his snakes. They didn't need to be left astray. So when it came to seeing Carlton doubting himself, he was patient. "And why do you think that happened Carlton?" Justin asked softly. He wanted to hear the young one's thoughts before answering.

The fact that Mr. McLeod assured him the monster wouldn't return next term did calm him a little. The corridors still frightened him because he didn't know what lurked around every corner but even though the monster gave him nightmares and walking through the entrance hall sent shivers down his spine; he still loved Hogwarts. He was still completely in love with magic and after knowing about it for almost a year, he didn't want to go back to his old school. He really hoped his parents would allow him to return for his second year.

Carlton stayed silent. Why hadn't his magic worked? At first an idea struck him that perhaps he wasn't supposed to be at Hogwarts in the first place. No one in his family did magic, no one even knew it existed so why him? But he pushed the thought away. He'd managed to do magic in class (most of the time anyway) so the idea that his acceptance letter had ended up at the wrong address didn't stay with him for long.

The young boy looked up at his Head of House with a questioning look. "Because I wasn't focused? Maybe?" All the professors always told him to focus and that it was all about intent. The intent for his magic to work inside the portal had definitely been there, but the focus... "Because I was afraid..." He frowned, suddenly irritated. "But... How do you even focus in a situation like that, Mr. McLeod? How do you focus when a monster is chasing you? It drooled on my head, Mr. McLeod!" He pointed at his curls for emphasis. "I can't focus when I'm being drooled on by something that wants to eat me." Fact.

The Groundskeeper nodded after his answer, "Yes, remaining focus while in a dangerous situation is crucial but not an easy task." Justin started off, "Even the most experienced can suffer from the result on certain spells not working for them." It was important to note that he wasn't the first or last to experience such trouble. "What matters however is that you made it out and were able to relive the tale." But naturally he was a boy. Making it out alive was not enough. Proving one's strength mattered more than surviving in some cases. "Consider this, Carlton. You are a first year at the moment, still learning the the techniques of wand movements and memorising spells and charms. A year ago you were at the most vaguely aware of your own magic and unpredictable moments with it." Taking a moment to sip his own tea before continuing, "Out of your own control, you were faced with a challenge unforeseen by anyone, with your life on the line in that portal. Coupled that with your experience with magic, your mind went into a lock out unable to process everything happening."

As for how to deal with that sort of danger... Justin fought the urge to grin at the outrage of the monster's drool. "While I hope you never have to face something like that again, other than continuing to improve on defensive spells, there's the option to rely on distractions. " Considering a moment. "Not just for monsters though, with any fight really, you work with what's around you to take their attention off you. If they're not completely focused on you, you have a better chance on keeping focused on them." A sort of mind trick, but an example is needed. "If you're fighting in a alley, there's bound to be trash, so you could duplicate the litter around them so they now have an obstacle before you." It was bound to make sense.