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**Braith McCormack** · 03-30-2014, 02:30 PM

SPOILER!!: Question #1

Quote:

Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88

"Professor I believe that it only became an issue in the 1990s because it was suspected that Lord Voldemort was rising again and would most likely be looking for it. Maybe it wasn't an issue before that because people didn't know the Philosopher's Stone actually existed and if they did, there was no way they would know where it was hidden." Sander provided his answer for the first question.

“It’s possible that no one knew where it was located or that it was merely a myth,” he nodded as the seventh year offered his thinking. Though in 500 years, he’d expect there to be more searching.

Quote:

Originally Posted by hermionesclone

Finally, the Head Boy looked over at McCormack and raised his hand in the air. "Well... who's to say that it wasn't made into a big deal before? Maybe it was and that was why it had to be placed in Gringotts in the first place. And in the Hogwarts vault too, as Alice said, which... well... it would have been hard to rob that one, right?" ... Pause. "Maybe... if something did happen before, it wasn't as bad as what happened in the 1990s and they thought that they could still protect it. That might have been when things got so bad that they just had to destroy it. Maybe that was the last straw and they... had to stop the most evil dark wizard from becoming immortal. So... it had to be done." Shrug.

”You’re very correct in that thinking,” he agreed with the Head Boy. “It’s quite likely that it found some notoriety at another point in history, though this particular time was well-noted.” Though he wasn’t so sure that he was all that impressed with the security of the bank. It had been broken into several times, it was just fortunate that someone had cleared the contents of the vault before it happened the first time. “Alright,” he added with a nod as the Head Boy continued. “Those are some good thoughts on the subject. Perhaps Flamel and Dumbledore felt there was no other choice on the matter especially after Voldemort became certain of its existence and was desperate to possess it.” They really might not have been able to hide it well enough after that.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Squishy

Raising her hand, she said, "In regards to the first question, I believe it was destroyed because in the 1990s, Voldemort was said to have been trying to come back into power and he probably wanted the stone. Before then, I don't think people really knew about it, and after what happened during Harry Potter's first year at school made it a lot more known and they didn't want other people to try to get a hold on it and use it for bad reasons?" If that made any sense. There were lots of greedy and power hungry people out there, and not all of them were dark wizards like Voldemort, but that didn't mean they should have the Philosopher's Stone for themselves.

Braith nodded lightly. “Its existence did seem to become more widely known after the events that took place here, though its existence had been debated for many years.” People knew about it before that time, it was just interesting to him how everything had come to a head. “And I agree that there are many greedy people that would be desperate to use that stone for their own benefit… even before Voldemort’s time.” Perhaps it had just been coincidental that he was the one to have come so close to it that it would be destroyed at that time.

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19

Ohh. Two questions. Adi chose to answer just the first one, so he raised his hand. "People were growing power hungry,'' the Puffer said. "Before, no one tried to steal it but then Voldemort and changed that. And since he was the most feared wizard during that time, no one could allow him to come into possession of the Stone.''

”Ah, but there have always been power hungry people throughout history,” he said in regards to the young Hufflepuff’s answer. Certainly not just in the 20th Century. “Though it is very possible that another could have attempted to gain its possession before that, but perhaps this is the most noted example.” And perhaps he was the closest to do that. He’d agree with the rest of that statement though about him being the most feared dark wizard of that time.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow

"For the first question, I guess it has to do with there being an active threat? I think...that we take precautions to protect a lot of valuable things in the world but until there is an immediate threat, people don't tend to get too worried about where they are as long as they're in a safe place. I think people always knew the stone was powerful and could be dangerous in the wrong hands but until those hands reached out to take it, people maybe weren't aware of the gravity of its existence?" Did that make any sense at all? Ella knew what she'd meant to say but she just hoped that the Professor got the gist of it.

”Good point, Miss Bishop,” Braith gave her an approving nod. “If it was kept safe for that many years, the true realization of its dangerous power might not have been so prevalent.” Though he was more than certain that this attempt to steal the stone was not the first.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Meizzner

Questions plural. Nigel would have been more than fine answering one of the two. But what do you know. He had to answer both. Nigel did not really know the right answer for either. so guessing would have to do.

"I guess people have always wanted the stone if they knew about it. But i guess the evil in the world at that time was too greater that it made Flamel want to destroy the stone." That sounded pretty good for the first question.

Braith nodded a bit. “I think it was more the imminent threat than anything else.” He wasn’t sure evil was any greater at that time than any other, though this particular dark wizard was an incredibly dangerous one. “And yeah, there were plenty throughout history that would have wanted it for themselves.” And plenty today, he would guess.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lissy Longbottom

"Well, I think the biggest reason it was destroyed was because there was a very immediate threat that wanted the stone. Voldemort obviously wanted it to try and come back to life, and it doesn't seem like any other dark wizard before him even knew it existed. Therefore, in the best interest of the wizarding world, it made sense to destroy it. Plus after hundreds of years, I think Flammel was just ready to let go, you know?" he said. That was the most delicate way of putting it, in his opinion.

”Possibly,” Braith said as he leaned back against his desk. “Though I’m sure others were aware of its existence, maybe just not its location.” He nodded at Mr. Newell’s last point before adding, “Yes, that is a very long time to be alive. I wouldn’t doubt many would be ready to let go, even with that opportunity. Though it didn’t need to necessarily be destroyed for that reason…” He could have just stopped drinking the elixir and left the stone with someone else.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Team ronmione

The questions. Tag tried to pick out which of the two he felt more comfortable with, or understood slightly better. An for him that was the first question. "I think before the 1990's it hadn't been destroyed because things were probably more quiet and calm. I mean, that's a powerful object, and it shouldn't go into the wrong hands. So people probably started to worry that it could get into the wrong hands. That's why it probably was destroyed. People could start abusing it for their own purposes. And that's obviously not a good sign." And that there was Tag's little take on the question.

”Incredibly powerful, yes,” McCormack agreed. “Though the threat of getting in to the wrong hands was always there. Maybe it was just made more aware around the time it was destroyed.”

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"For your first question, Professor, while I don't think that the Dark Lord was the first Dark wizard to seek immortality, I do believe that most Dark wizards seek power, money, and influence primarily. Flamel's work doesn't seem to be widely known, considering how hard it was for students in the 1990's to learn anything about him, and it certainly isn't the quick and easy way to get power or influence. Even in his first rising, the Dark Lord sought immortality through crazy spells and horcruxes... it wasn't until those had been exhausted that he fell back on the Philosopher's Stone. I just can't imagine anyone had ever pursued it as hard or as long as he did, and it was only when he got very close that the decision was made to take it completely out of his reach. Forever." Everyone knew Voldemort wanted to live forever even during his first rising, but it wasn't like they went around destroying the stone then, even if it would have been very attractive to the wizard.

Braith listened to Mr. Branxton’s answer, mulling it over a moment before he responded. He always seemed to have such insightful thoughts. “Very perceptive line of thinking,” he nodded. “Perhaps no one else had put in quite the effort that Voldemort had, being as difficult to locate as it had been for so many years. His obvious desperation certainly seemed to make that decision necessary.”

Quote:

Originally Posted by aaetha

"Well, the Elixir of Life or whatever it was that the Stone produced was the only thing that was keeping what's-his-face, the creator, alive, yeah? So anyone other than him who wanted to destroy it would have to face loads of complicated morals and stuff because someone's life hung in the balance." Adrienne paused for a moment, looking around her, and then continued. "Besides, why would anyone want to destroy it? I mean, before the whole fiasco, all it was doing was peacefully keeping this one guy and his wife alive and making gold. It's innocent in and of itself, it's only what people might do to try and get it that's the problem."

M’hmm.. Braith nodded lightly at the Ravenclaw girl. “Certainly it should be the creator’s ultimate decision on its fate.” Or at least that was his opinion on that particular matter. “That was the problem.. though who’s to say there wasn’t a problem before then?” And just not as well-noted? Certainly in half a millennium something might have come up before then.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Harry174

Laura looked at the Professor and raised her hand. "For the first question I think it is because in the 1900's people were starting to act a lot more selfish then anytime before. I know scientists were experimenting more with a lot of dangerous stuff after world war one and two and then the cold war and so people were panicking and having something like the Philosopher’s Stone would be tempting, plus theft was on the rise in 1990." Laura finished there she didn't know what the second question meant so didn't answer it.

”Hmm, I don’t know that selfishness or theft was any more prevalent in that time than at another time in history,” Braith began, once Miss Hyde offered her thoughts. “Though I think you have a pretty good point about the timing of some very large and powerful wars. Perhaps that mindset led to some of the ways of thinking.”

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anna Banana

Oh, right. Sophie had been thinking about the Resurrection Stone, hadn't she? Meh. At least she was still talking about a STONE. She was on some form of the right track. She thought about the questions the professor asked, and then she raised her hand. "I think it caused issues back in the nineties, because it was then that a group of people started trying to use it for evil means," she said. Group of people, because she knew Voldemort had others helping him.

Braith nodded a bit. “True. And it was very nearly landed in the very wrong set of hands.” Maybe if there had been banded groups earlier, it would have had an earlier fate.

SPOILER!!: Question #2

Quote:

Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88

....and as for the second question...

"Those obstacles were placed by very powerful witches and wizards. However, as we can see it they weren't strong enough to keep both Professor Quirrell, Harry, Ron and Hermione. Although we have to admit that Hermione was a brilliant witch and Professor Quirrell did have Lord Voldemort's help too. So I think a desperate adult could probably get through....IF he or she was as brilliant and powerful."

An optional obstacle?

..."Maybe they should have added another obstacle. Something like Fiendfyre. Touch something you're not supposed to touch and you get burned," Sander shrugged. It was just a guess.

“I agree,” Braith nodded as Mr. Strand offered another answer. “An adult desperate enough and skilled enough probably could get through to the end.” Though it was that last obstacle that was tricky for one like that. “That’s an interesting option.. effective maybe, but awfully destructive.” Maybe not viable.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Squishy

"And for the second question, really powerful wizards made the obstacles, but eleven year olds managed to get past them. And though Hermione was really smart and eleven year olds can do a lot of things, that probably wasn't a good thing when guarding something so valuable. I think a desperate witch or wizard could get past the obstacles, so maybe it would have been a better idea to add more powerful enchantments to it." Gosh, she should give examples, but she couldn't think of any.

Braith nodded again. “Might have been a good idea, though perhaps the powerful witches and wizards thought they would be effective enough at the time.” He certainly didn’t know their thoughts but it was interesting to get the students thinking and hear their thoughts.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Grrr..Meow

Bay raised his hand.. "Errr Professor… for the second question, i think they could have added more dangerous obstacles to ensure no one would be able to get to it.. Maybe a Dragon and they could have made the Stone invisible so if anyone did make it to the last spot to pick up the stone they would think someone has already taken it."

Braith listened to Mr. Bay’s answer next. “Interesting thoughts,” he nodded. “Though if children could get past a giant and vicious three headed dog, I’m not sure how much more deterring a dragon would be.” Especially considered someone got past one breaking into the bank. They had dragons guarding there too, didn’t they?

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow

As for the second question, Ella bit her lip and then continued. "I'm not sure what I would use to protect the stone. Maybe runes. We've been learning about runic wards and the curses placed on objects and I think that if a powerful enough one were used, it could have maybe helped." Just something different to think about.

They were learning about runic wards and curses, weren’t they? Braith enjoyed those and he gave the Head Girl a small grin. “Sure, that’s another possibility. Would be quite deterrent, I might think.” Especially considering Ancient Runes and that types of curse breaking wasn’t something a first year would take and was rather specialized knowledge.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Meizzner

Now the easy one. "They were rubbish if a couple of first years got through them. " Nigel just thought they were extremely lucky. "Should have been a dragon, nundu, or something dangerous guarding it if you really wanted it safe."

Rubbish. That was an interesting word. Braith wasn’t sure he’d call them that, but it certainly was true that it did not deter the most persistent of children. “A nundu.. interesting. Nearly certain death for anyone who stumbled upon him?” Would seem that way at least.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lissy Longbottom

"As for the tasks - they should have had something wayyyy more hardcore in place, in my opinion. I mean the trio was smart, but not THAT smart, and the fact that they got past all those tasks without any serious injury or death? Weak," he said with a huff. Not that he had wanted them to die or anything but - seriously. That was pathetic. "I don't know what else they should have put in there, but maybe some dark magic? I mean, you're trying to protect something that could literally be used by a dark wizard to take over the world. Stoop to his level. No judging!"

”Perhaps they were lucky as well?” That could have played some part in it and not just sheer intelligence and wit. He shrugged as the boy continued. “Why not.. perhaps desperate means needed to be used to protect it if they were used to attempt to obtain it.”

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Now what was that second question? Mo's forehead wrinkled as he tried to recall. "Oh, and for your second question... it seems like almost anyone clever enough and patient enough could have made it past those obstacles. If you really want to protect something, you hide it and make it so that only you know where it is and how to get at it, rather than making it something that everyone has a hand in protecting. My theory is that Dumbledore, knowing someone was coming after the Philosopher's Stone, was setting a trap. He was trying to draw out the thief, and what better way than through an elaborate ruse?" It just so happened that several students were caught in that trap too.

Braith certainly was not surprised to receive yet another insightful answer from Mr. Branxton. He listened carefully, soon allowing a faint grin to fall over his features. “Very astute reasoning, Mr. Branxton. That is certainly a possibility given that several were able to get past the enchantments and obstacles. And certainly, the ore people know about something secret, no matter how much you trust them, the ore chance that secret has of getting out.” Smart boy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by lemon

"I think," she started, raising her hand, "that they shoulda used an Acromantula or a Sphinx. They're used to guard treasure, you know? Or at least some sort of protective spell. Couldn't they have put it in a secluded place and then cast a Fidelius Charm or something?" But it was an utterly ridiculous idea to try and hide something in a school full of nosy children. Of course a plan like that would fail.

Braith thought over Miss Fischer’s answer for a moment. Sure, either of those creatures would be decent choices though the people in charge of the obstacles likely thought the same about that dog creature. “A Fidelius Charm is a rather interesting idea as well.” Creative. “Might be possible that there had been one on it previously and that was why there hadn’t been such an issue in the many years previous.” And obviously any secret keeper would have died in that span of time, though that didn’t completely answer why it would have been moved.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaniDiNardo;11579958 [b

"I think they didn't think those traps through well enough. Anyone who knows enough about plants would have pegged the Devil Snare and passing your NEWTs would be enough to get you through the other stuff. I have to agree with Alice. A Sphinx. Who in their right mind would try anything with a Sphinx? There's a point in time when everyone just has to step away silently and try blasting another way inside. Maybe even dragons like they've got down in Gringotts."[/b] Those would prove just as useful and she didn't know many people willing to get by those much less Firsties.

"Cursing the stone could work too, engraving it with runes and concealing them too."

”I think that’s a good point, Miss Cambridge.” Not that he had a whole lot of expertise with plants, but NEWT level students would have easily escaped the clutches of a devil’s snare and possibly some of the other things as well depending on where one’s skills lay. “I do like the idea of runic wards though.” Of course he did.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anna Banana

"I don't think it matters that first years rather than more advanced casters defeated the obstacle course," she added. "I think it all depends on your talents, your attitude, and your ability to think logically. The first years who defeated the course had all three." Now if a few adults didn't share those same characteristics, then that was on them, age being of no matter.

”True, Miss Newell,” Braith nodded. “Which begs the question, were the obstacles and enchantments good enough to protect the stone? Or was there a reason stronger ones were not put into place?”

SPOILER!!: No answer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bazinga

Turning his eyes back to the professor as he talked and asked questions Bart just blinked at him a bit. “Well professor it caused such a fussssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.” Why did his words just slur. He shook his head a bit, “Pofessa te tone” He stopped again his mind going blank. What were they talking about? Why wasn’t his words coming to him? His lips fell a bit as he was lost in his own head not sure what he was doing.

“I fink e istory of Uelicisimportant” he stopped again knowing he wasn’t at Urelic, but not being able to remember where he was at. He was super confused right now.

Quote:

Originally Posted by lazykitty

Of course notes were being scribbled here. Because she'd forgotten most of this part once her semester of European History was over back home. And because some good points had been brought up. Then a couple of questions were asked that, yep, they'd gone more in depth on at her old school. "Well, Voldemort was after the stone back then, and no one had really gone after it like he did before. And as for the obstacles, maybe Dumbledore wanted to teach Harry and his friends something? Like maybe that they should stick together or something?" Or maybe Dumbledore was just that incompetent. Who knew?

Also, why was the Gryffindor boy (Bart, from what she could see from his name tag) slurring? Then again, he was one of the ones affected by whatever was making people old, wasn't he? And she'd heard what that........but surely......? "Professor, I think Bart's having a stroke........" It's what it seemed like, anyway.

Braith turned his eyes next on Mr. Maroon as he began speaking without being called on. But McCormack simply listened, his brow soon furrowing as the boy began acting oddly. He simply stared at him for a moment as he tried to make sense of his slurred and mumbled words, a sort of anxious feeling rising in his chest. “Mr. Maroon, are you alright?” He didn’t want to jump to any conclusions just yet but something was really off.

Eyes still focused on the Gryffindor, he heard Miss Channing-Sands speaking, though her words didn’t really register, so unfortunately he did not add her answer to the discussion. But his eyes drifted back to her as she continued. Stroke? He supposed that thought briefly fleeted through his mind.. but surely.. not.. ? Maybe get the class started on their game, then he’d tend to Bart. He appeared to be outwardly alright, but he wasn’t completely sure.

“Alright, class.. I’m going to quickly get you started on our game today, then you can all be dismissed once we’re finished. Great discussion by the way.” Yeah, he was a little bit distracted now and he wasn’t going to continue talking much more about it. They were taking notes anyway, right? “As we discussed, there were several obstacles placed in front of the Sorcerer’s Stone when it was located in this castle. We didn’t go much in depth with that today, but one of the obstacles was a life-sized Wizarding Chess board. We are going to try to play a little game of that today.” He waved his wand and undid the Disillusionment Charm on the floor, showing the room-sized chess board there. “If everyone could get up and push their desks against the wall.. or you know, use a banishing charm.” He gave several of them concerning looks, wondering if this old age thing would hinder them in their movement before he banished his own desk against the wall. Good thing he had put Bart in the front corner. He wouldn’t have to worry about that just yet and he could go over to assist him in just a moment.

He looked out at all of them again, squinting a bit and wondering how best to divide them up. There seemed to be such a small number of Ravenclaws here, obviously they’d be best suited to the house that held the most presence today. “Alright, let’s have Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs on one side (white) and Slytherins and Gryffindors on the other (black). Those are our teams. Step on a square at each side and assume the piece that would normally go there. If you’re not sure how to play, ask an older student, I’m sure one can help you.. and I’ll be here as well to offer my assistance.” Once he saw to Mr. Maroon that is.

Once he gave the basic instructions, he stepped quickly over to Bart. “Mr. Maroon.. how are we doing? I think maybe you should get to the Healer to check you out.” And was there someone willing to escort him there?

OOC – Alright, let’s attempt to play Wizarding Chess. Please claim one of the pieces. Remember that Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs are the white pieces and Gryffindors and Slytherins are the black pieces. This will work much like the Virtual Quidditch game here on SS. In your post, please state what piece you are and your move, also commenting on/determining the move of the person posting before you. You cannot automatically capture the opposing team’s piece in your post, unless someone on your team posts after you confirming this (if someone on the opposing team posts next, they can post that their piece moved out of the way). Also, please make your move eye-catching and obvious in your post so the next person can determine the outcome if necessary - underline, different color, etc.

For example:
Player 1 (white team) – White Knight moves towards the black bishop
Player 2 (black team) – black bishop moves away from the white knight and towards a white pawn
Player 3 (black tea) – black bishop captures the white pawn

I hope this makes some sort of sense. I will be in and out to answer any questions, but most of all just try to have fun with it. Make at least 3 decent-sized RP posts for full credit for the activity (more than what I gave you for the examples

) Here’s an easy chess site for moves and rules reference if you need it.

03-30-2014, 02:30 PM	#63 (permalink)
Braith McCormack Former Visiting Professor Jarvey Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 570 Hogwarts RPG Name: Braith McCormack Graduated	SPOILER!!: Question #1 Quote: Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88 "Professor I believe that it only became an issue in the 1990s because it was suspected that Lord Voldemort was rising again and would most likely be looking for it. Maybe it wasn't an issue before that because people didn't know the Philosopher's Stone actually existed and if they did, there was no way they would know where it was hidden." Sander provided his answer for the first question. “It’s possible that no one knew where it was located or that it was merely a myth,” he nodded as the seventh year offered his thinking. Though in 500 years, he’d expect there to be more searching. Quote: Originally Posted by hermionesclone Finally, the Head Boy looked over at McCormack and raised his hand in the air. "Well... who's to say that it wasn't made into a big deal before? Maybe it was and that was why it had to be placed in Gringotts in the first place. And in the Hogwarts vault too, as Alice said, which... well... it would have been hard to rob that one, right?" ... Pause. "Maybe... if something did happen before, it wasn't as bad as what happened in the 1990s and they thought that they could still protect it. That might have been when things got so bad that they just had to destroy it. Maybe that was the last straw and they... had to stop the most evil dark wizard from becoming immortal. So... it had to be done." Shrug. ”You’re very correct in that thinking,” he agreed with the Head Boy. “It’s quite likely that it found some notoriety at another point in history, though this particular time was well-noted.” Though he wasn’t so sure that he was all that impressed with the security of the bank. It had been broken into several times, it was just fortunate that someone had cleared the contents of the vault before it happened the first time. “Alright,” he added with a nod as the Head Boy continued. “Those are some good thoughts on the subject. Perhaps Flamel and Dumbledore felt there was no other choice on the matter especially after Voldemort became certain of its existence and was desperate to possess it.” They really might not have been able to hide it well enough after that. Quote: Originally Posted by Squishy Raising her hand, she said, "In regards to the first question, I believe it was destroyed because in the 1990s, Voldemort was said to have been trying to come back into power and he probably wanted the stone. Before then, I don't think people really knew about it, and after what happened during Harry Potter's first year at school made it a lot more known and they didn't want other people to try to get a hold on it and use it for bad reasons?" If that made any sense. There were lots of greedy and power hungry people out there, and not all of them were dark wizards like Voldemort, but that didn't mean they should have the Philosopher's Stone for themselves. Braith nodded lightly. “Its existence did seem to become more widely known after the events that took place here, though its existence had been debated for many years.” People knew about it before that time, it was just interesting to him how everything had come to a head. “And I agree that there are many greedy people that would be desperate to use that stone for their own benefit… even before Voldemort’s time.” Perhaps it had just been coincidental that he was the one to have come so close to it that it would be destroyed at that time. Quote: Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19 Ohh. Two questions. Adi chose to answer just the first one, so he raised his hand. "People were growing power hungry,'' the Puffer said. "Before, no one tried to steal it but then Voldemort and changed that. And since he was the most feared wizard during that time, no one could allow him to come into possession of the Stone.'' ”Ah, but there have always been power hungry people throughout history,” he said in regards to the young Hufflepuff’s answer. Certainly not just in the 20th Century. “Though it is very possible that another could have attempted to gain its possession before that, but perhaps this is the most noted example.” And perhaps he was the closest to do that. He’d agree with the rest of that statement though about him being the most feared dark wizard of that time. Quote: Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow "For the first question, I guess it has to do with there being an active threat? I think...that we take precautions to protect a lot of valuable things in the world but until there is an immediate threat, people don't tend to get too worried about where they are as long as they're in a safe place. I think people always knew the stone was powerful and could be dangerous in the wrong hands but until those hands reached out to take it, people maybe weren't aware of the gravity of its existence?" Did that make any sense at all? Ella knew what she'd meant to say but she just hoped that the Professor got the gist of it. ”Good point, Miss Bishop,” Braith gave her an approving nod. “If it was kept safe for that many years, the true realization of its dangerous power might not have been so prevalent.” Though he was more than certain that this attempt to steal the stone was not the first. Quote: Originally Posted by Meizzner Questions plural. Nigel would have been more than fine answering one of the two. But what do you know. He had to answer both. Nigel did not really know the right answer for either. so guessing would have to do. "I guess people have always wanted the stone if they knew about it. But i guess the evil in the world at that time was too greater that it made Flamel want to destroy the stone." That sounded pretty good for the first question. Braith nodded a bit. “I think it was more the imminent threat than anything else.” He wasn’t sure evil was any greater at that time than any other, though this particular dark wizard was an incredibly dangerous one. “And yeah, there were plenty throughout history that would have wanted it for themselves.” And plenty today, he would guess. Quote: Originally Posted by Lissy Longbottom "Well, I think the biggest reason it was destroyed was because there was a very immediate threat that wanted the stone. Voldemort obviously wanted it to try and come back to life, and it doesn't seem like any other dark wizard before him even knew it existed. Therefore, in the best interest of the wizarding world, it made sense to destroy it. Plus after hundreds of years, I think Flammel was just ready to let go, you know?" he said. That was the most delicate way of putting it, in his opinion. ”Possibly,” Braith said as he leaned back against his desk. “Though I’m sure others were aware of its existence, maybe just not its location.” He nodded at Mr. Newell’s last point before adding, “Yes, that is a very long time to be alive. I wouldn’t doubt many would be ready to let go, even with that opportunity. Though it didn’t need to necessarily be destroyed for that reason…” He could have just stopped drinking the elixir and left the stone with someone else. Quote: Originally Posted by Team ronmione The questions. Tag tried to pick out which of the two he felt more comfortable with, or understood slightly better. An for him that was the first question. "I think before the 1990's it hadn't been destroyed because things were probably more quiet and calm. I mean, that's a powerful object, and it shouldn't go into the wrong hands. So people probably started to worry that it could get into the wrong hands. That's why it probably was destroyed. People could start abusing it for their own purposes. And that's obviously not a good sign." And that there was Tag's little take on the question. ”Incredibly powerful, yes,” McCormack agreed. “Though the threat of getting in to the wrong hands was always there. Maybe it was just made more aware around the time it was destroyed.” Quote: Originally Posted by Cassirin "For your first question, Professor, while I don't think that the Dark Lord was the first Dark wizard to seek immortality, I do believe that most Dark wizards seek power, money, and influence primarily. Flamel's work doesn't seem to be widely known, considering how hard it was for students in the 1990's to learn anything about him, and it certainly isn't the quick and easy way to get power or influence. Even in his first rising, the Dark Lord sought immortality through crazy spells and horcruxes... it wasn't until those had been exhausted that he fell back on the Philosopher's Stone. I just can't imagine anyone had ever pursued it as hard or as long as he did, and it was only when he got very close that the decision was made to take it completely out of his reach. Forever." Everyone knew Voldemort wanted to live forever even during his first rising, but it wasn't like they went around destroying the stone then, even if it would have been very attractive to the wizard. Braith listened to Mr. Branxton’s answer, mulling it over a moment before he responded. He always seemed to have such insightful thoughts. “Very perceptive line of thinking,” he nodded. “Perhaps no one else had put in quite the effort that Voldemort had, being as difficult to locate as it had been for so many years. His obvious desperation certainly seemed to make that decision necessary.” Quote: Originally Posted by aaetha "Well, the Elixir of Life or whatever it was that the Stone produced was the only thing that was keeping what's-his-face, the creator, alive, yeah? So anyone other than him who wanted to destroy it would have to face loads of complicated morals and stuff because someone's life hung in the balance." Adrienne paused for a moment, looking around her, and then continued. "Besides, why would anyone want to destroy it? I mean, before the whole fiasco, all it was doing was peacefully keeping this one guy and his wife alive and making gold. It's innocent in and of itself, it's only what people might do to try and get it that's the problem." M’hmm.. Braith nodded lightly at the Ravenclaw girl. “Certainly it should be the creator’s ultimate decision on its fate.” Or at least that was his opinion on that particular matter. “That was the problem.. though who’s to say there wasn’t a problem before then?” And just not as well-noted? Certainly in half a millennium something might have come up before then. Quote: Originally Posted by Harry174 Laura looked at the Professor and raised her hand. "For the first question I think it is because in the 1900's people were starting to act a lot more selfish then anytime before. I know scientists were experimenting more with a lot of dangerous stuff after world war one and two and then the cold war and so people were panicking and having something like the Philosopher’s Stone would be tempting, plus theft was on the rise in 1990." Laura finished there she didn't know what the second question meant so didn't answer it. ”Hmm, I don’t know that selfishness or theft was any more prevalent in that time than at another time in history,” Braith began, once Miss Hyde offered her thoughts. “Though I think you have a pretty good point about the timing of some very large and powerful wars. Perhaps that mindset led to some of the ways of thinking.” Quote: Originally Posted by Anna Banana Oh, right. Sophie had been thinking about the Resurrection Stone, hadn't she? Meh. At least she was still talking about a STONE. She was on some form of the right track. She thought about the questions the professor asked, and then she raised her hand. "I think it caused issues back in the nineties, because it was then that a group of people started trying to use it for evil means," she said. Group of people, because she knew Voldemort had others helping him. Braith nodded a bit. “True. And it was very nearly landed in the very wrong set of hands.” Maybe if there had been banded groups earlier, it would have had an earlier fate. SPOILER!!: Question #2 Quote: Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88 ....and as for the second question... "Those obstacles were placed by very powerful witches and wizards. However, as we can see it they weren't strong enough to keep both Professor Quirrell, Harry, Ron and Hermione. Although we have to admit that Hermione was a brilliant witch and Professor Quirrell did have Lord Voldemort's help too. So I think a desperate adult could probably get through....IF he or she was as brilliant and powerful." An optional obstacle? ..."Maybe they should have added another obstacle. Something like Fiendfyre. Touch something you're not supposed to touch and you get burned," Sander shrugged. It was just a guess. “I agree,” Braith nodded as Mr. Strand offered another answer. “An adult desperate enough and skilled enough probably could get through to the end.” Though it was that last obstacle that was tricky for one like that. “That’s an interesting option.. effective maybe, but awfully destructive.” Maybe not viable. Quote: Originally Posted by Squishy "And for the second question, really powerful wizards made the obstacles, but eleven year olds managed to get past them. And though Hermione was really smart and eleven year olds can do a lot of things, that probably wasn't a good thing when guarding something so valuable. I think a desperate witch or wizard could get past the obstacles, so maybe it would have been a better idea to add more powerful enchantments to it." Gosh, she should give examples, but she couldn't think of any. Braith nodded again. “Might have been a good idea, though perhaps the powerful witches and wizards thought they would be effective enough at the time.” He certainly didn’t know their thoughts but it was interesting to get the students thinking and hear their thoughts. Quote: Originally Posted by Grrr..Meow Bay raised his hand.. "Errr Professor… for the second question, i think they could have added more dangerous obstacles to ensure no one would be able to get to it.. Maybe a Dragon and they could have made the Stone invisible so if anyone did make it to the last spot to pick up the stone they would think someone has already taken it." Braith listened to Mr. Bay’s answer next. “Interesting thoughts,” he nodded. “Though if children could get past a giant and vicious three headed dog, I’m not sure how much more deterring a dragon would be.” Especially considered someone got past one breaking into the bank. They had dragons guarding there too, didn’t they? Quote: Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow As for the second question, Ella bit her lip and then continued. "I'm not sure what I would use to protect the stone. Maybe runes. We've been learning about runic wards and the curses placed on objects and I think that if a powerful enough one were used, it could have maybe helped." Just something different to think about. They were learning about runic wards and curses, weren’t they? Braith enjoyed those and he gave the Head Girl a small grin. “Sure, that’s another possibility. Would be quite deterrent, I might think.” Especially considering Ancient Runes and that types of curse breaking wasn’t something a first year would take and was rather specialized knowledge. Quote: Originally Posted by Meizzner Now the easy one. "They were rubbish if a couple of first years got through them. " Nigel just thought they were extremely lucky. "Should have been a dragon, nundu, or something dangerous guarding it if you really wanted it safe." Rubbish. That was an interesting word. Braith wasn’t sure he’d call them that, but it certainly was true that it did not deter the most persistent of children. “A nundu.. interesting. Nearly certain death for anyone who stumbled upon him?” Would seem that way at least. Quote: Originally Posted by Lissy Longbottom "As for the tasks - they should have had something wayyyy more hardcore in place, in my opinion. I mean the trio was smart, but not THAT smart, and the fact that they got past all those tasks without any serious injury or death? Weak," he said with a huff. Not that he had wanted them to die or anything but - seriously. That was pathetic. "I don't know what else they should have put in there, but maybe some dark magic? I mean, you're trying to protect something that could literally be used by a dark wizard to take over the world. Stoop to his level. No judging!" ”Perhaps they were lucky as well?” That could have played some part in it and not just sheer intelligence and wit. He shrugged as the boy continued. “Why not.. perhaps desperate means needed to be used to protect it if they were used to attempt to obtain it.” Quote: Originally Posted by Cassirin Now what was that second question? Mo's forehead wrinkled as he tried to recall. "Oh, and for your second question... it seems like almost anyone clever enough and patient enough could have made it past those obstacles. If you really want to protect something, you hide it and make it so that only you know where it is and how to get at it, rather than making it something that everyone has a hand in protecting. My theory is that Dumbledore, knowing someone was coming after the Philosopher's Stone, was setting a trap. He was trying to draw out the thief, and what better way than through an elaborate ruse?" It just so happened that several students were caught in that trap too. Braith certainly was not surprised to receive yet another insightful answer from Mr. Branxton. He listened carefully, soon allowing a faint grin to fall over his features. “Very astute reasoning, Mr. Branxton. That is certainly a possibility given that several were able to get past the enchantments and obstacles. And certainly, the ore people know about something secret, no matter how much you trust them, the ore chance that secret has of getting out.” Smart boy. Quote: Originally Posted by lemon "I think," she started, raising her hand, "that they shoulda used an Acromantula or a Sphinx. They're used to guard treasure, you know? Or at least some sort of protective spell. Couldn't they have put it in a secluded place and then cast a Fidelius Charm or something?" But it was an utterly ridiculous idea to try and hide something in a school full of nosy children. Of course a plan like that would fail. Braith thought over Miss Fischer’s answer for a moment. Sure, either of those creatures would be decent choices though the people in charge of the obstacles likely thought the same about that dog creature. “A Fidelius Charm is a rather interesting idea as well.” Creative. “Might be possible that there had been one on it previously and that was why there hadn’t been such an issue in the many years previous.” And obviously any secret keeper would have died in that span of time, though that didn’t completely answer why it would have been moved. Quote: Originally Posted by DaniDiNardo;11579958 [b "I think they didn't think those traps through well enough. Anyone who knows enough about plants would have pegged the Devil Snare and passing your NEWTs would be enough to get you through the other stuff. I have to agree with Alice. A Sphinx. Who in their right mind would try anything with a Sphinx? There's a point in time when everyone just has to step away silently and try blasting another way inside. Maybe even dragons like they've got down in Gringotts."[/b] Those would prove just as useful and she didn't know many people willing to get by those much less Firsties. "Cursing the stone could work too, engraving it with runes and concealing them too." ”I think that’s a good point, Miss Cambridge.” Not that he had a whole lot of expertise with plants, but NEWT level students would have easily escaped the clutches of a devil’s snare and possibly some of the other things as well depending on where one’s skills lay. “I do like the idea of runic wards though.” Of course he did. Quote: Originally Posted by Anna Banana "I don't think it matters that first years rather than more advanced casters defeated the obstacle course," she added. "I think it all depends on your talents, your attitude, and your ability to think logically. The first years who defeated the course had all three." Now if a few adults didn't share those same characteristics, then that was on them, age being of no matter. ”True, Miss Newell,” Braith nodded. “Which begs the question, were the obstacles and enchantments good enough to protect the stone? Or was there a reason stronger ones were not put into place?” SPOILER!!: No answer Quote: Originally Posted by Daydreamer11 Alex listened as her classmates gave their thoughts on the Professor's questions. She agreed with those who thought that Voldemort's attempted return to power posed a threat and ultimately led to the stone bring destroyed. Feeling that she didn't have anything new to add, Alex decided to remain silent during this round of questions. She continued to scribble notes as the students talked. Braith’s eyes fell on the silent Ravenclaw. No thoughts on either question? That was alright with him really and he saw that she was diligently taking notes. Good, she got an approving nod. They should all be taking notes, even the ones who did answer. Quote: Originally Posted by Bazinga Turning his eyes back to the professor as he talked and asked questions Bart just blinked at him a bit. “Well professor it caused such a fussssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.” Why did his words just slur. He shook his head a bit, “Pofessa te tone” He stopped again his mind going blank. What were they talking about? Why wasn’t his words coming to him? His lips fell a bit as he was lost in his own head not sure what he was doing. “I fink e istory of Uelicisimportant” he stopped again knowing he wasn’t at Urelic, but not being able to remember where he was at. He was super confused right now. Quote: Originally Posted by lazykitty Of course notes were being scribbled here. Because she'd forgotten most of this part once her semester of European History was over back home. And because some good points had been brought up. Then a couple of questions were asked that, yep, they'd gone more in depth on at her old school. "Well, Voldemort was after the stone back then, and no one had really gone after it like he did before. And as for the obstacles, maybe Dumbledore wanted to teach Harry and his friends something? Like maybe that they should stick together or something?" Or maybe Dumbledore was just that incompetent. Who knew? Also, why was the Gryffindor boy (Bart, from what she could see from his name tag) slurring? Then again, he was one of the ones affected by whatever was making people old, wasn't he? And she'd heard what that........but surely......? "Professor, I think Bart's having a stroke........" It's what it seemed like, anyway. Braith turned his eyes next on Mr. Maroon as he began speaking without being called on. But McCormack simply listened, his brow soon furrowing as the boy began acting oddly. He simply stared at him for a moment as he tried to make sense of his slurred and mumbled words, a sort of anxious feeling rising in his chest. “Mr. Maroon, are you alright?” He didn’t want to jump to any conclusions just yet but something was really off. Eyes still focused on the Gryffindor, he heard Miss Channing-Sands speaking, though her words didn’t really register, so unfortunately he did not add her answer to the discussion. But his eyes drifted back to her as she continued. Stroke? He supposed that thought briefly fleeted through his mind.. but surely.. not.. ? Maybe get the class started on their game, then he’d tend to Bart. He appeared to be outwardly alright, but he wasn’t completely sure. “Alright, class.. I’m going to quickly get you started on our game today, then you can all be dismissed once we’re finished. Great discussion by the way.” Yeah, he was a little bit distracted now and he wasn’t going to continue talking much more about it. They were taking notes anyway, right? “As we discussed, there were several obstacles placed in front of the Sorcerer’s Stone when it was located in this castle. We didn’t go much in depth with that today, but one of the obstacles was a life-sized Wizarding Chess board. We are going to try to play a little game of that today.” He waved his wand and undid the Disillusionment Charm on the floor, showing the room-sized chess board there. “If everyone could get up and push their desks against the wall.. or you know, use a banishing charm.” He gave several of them concerning looks, wondering if this old age thing would hinder them in their movement before he banished his own desk against the wall. Good thing he had put Bart in the front corner. He wouldn’t have to worry about that just yet and he could go over to assist him in just a moment. He looked out at all of them again, squinting a bit and wondering how best to divide them up. There seemed to be such a small number of Ravenclaws here, obviously they’d be best suited to the house that held the most presence today. “Alright, let’s have Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs on one side (white) and Slytherins and Gryffindors on the other (black). Those are our teams. Step on a square at each side and assume the piece that would normally go there. If you’re not sure how to play, ask an older student, I’m sure one can help you.. and I’ll be here as well to offer my assistance.” Once he saw to Mr. Maroon that is. Once he gave the basic instructions, he stepped quickly over to Bart. “Mr. Maroon.. how are we doing? I think maybe you should get to the Healer to check you out.” And was there someone willing to escort him there? OOC – Alright, let’s attempt to play Wizarding Chess. Please claim one of the pieces. Remember that Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs are the white pieces and Gryffindors and Slytherins are the black pieces. This will work much like the Virtual Quidditch game here on SS. In your post, please state what piece you are and your move, also commenting on/determining the move of the person posting before you. You cannot automatically capture the opposing team’s piece in your post, unless someone on your team posts after you confirming this (if someone on the opposing team posts next, they can post that their piece moved out of the way). Also, please make your move eye-catching and obvious in your post so the next person can determine the outcome if necessary - underline, different color, etc. For example: Player 1 (white team) – White Knight moves towards the black bishop Player 2 (black team) – black bishop moves away from the white knight and towards a white pawn Player 3 (black tea) – black bishop captures the white pawn I hope this makes some sort of sense. I will be in and out to answer any questions, but most of all just try to have fun with it. Make at least 3 decent-sized RP posts for full credit for the activity (more than what I gave you for the examples ) Here’s an easy chess site for moves and rules reference if you need it. __________________