The end of the term was upon them, and the headmistress reflected on her first year at Hogwarts with each step she took toward the Great Hall from her office. Everything that had happened under her reign was not going to be forgotten. Even plucking out and storing those detailed memories, those nightmares, and more away into a pensieve was not enough to keep them at bay. Nevertheless, she was glad that the last few weeks of the school year were quiet and, for the most part, calm. Everyone had recovered and survived the mysteries of the portal as well as exams.

Regina's heels echoed in the empty hall as she walked in between the house tables and made her way up to the staff dais. She woman then took her spot in the middle of the table and waited for her colleagues and the students to arrive. Tonight they need not worry about the portal or the beast within, but rather celebrate their triumphs and the end of yet another school year.

A quiet, relieved sigh left her mouth as she folded her hands on the table. Summer was just around the corner.

At least the term was over now. Pretty sure that Jordan was not the only one who was looking forward for this term to end. It had been such a traumatized year for everyone with the monster and alternate universe kind of thing. But it was over now and hopefully that everything would be back to normal again. Although he doubted that there would be a time when Hogwarts had a smooth life with no shenanigans.

He realized that he was early as he walked in to the great hall, heading to the staff dais. The students were not here yet and there was only one person who had arrived. "Regina." The CoMC professor mentioned the headmistress' name. "You handled your first year as a headmistress very well, despite of the mystery." He nodded as he sat on his spot.

He's going to miss this castle.

Tonight Justin was beaming, not only for the awaiting victory feast - his house winning once again, after all - but for everything. The school was safe once again, summer plans, getting to see some of his favorite colleagues, plans after summer, his snakes.. But there was a bit of sadness mixed in as some were not going to be returning here.. something he can wait to address until after the speech.

"Regina... Jordan." Justin greeted as he walked in before taking his familiar seat.

It was rather nice to see that she wasn't the first staff at the Dais for once. Kay made her way to it, thinking how fast another school year had gone by. This marked three years since she was teaching here and she was quite looking forward to another year of it. "Good evening, Regina, Justin,'' she said with a smile. "Jordan,'' Kay added without looking at him. As much as she had tried, there had been no complete way to ignore him for the remaining of the term.

She took her usual seat, her blue eyes turning to the four House tables. The students should be there any moment as well as the other staff. Everyone was safe and sound which was a relief. There was nothing that made her happier right now. Absently, the woman drummed her fingers on the table as she tried to focus on the plans for summer as a form of distraction.

Gaston walked into the Great Hall with Rosalyn at his side. He was still a little sad about the events of the past term and probably would be for quite some time, but now he could start to put that behind him. The students had returned safely, the monster was gone, and now they only had one poltergeist to worry about. And that wasn't the only way the future looked brighter... but everyone would find out about that soon enough!

He exchanged a quick loving look with Rose, and he couldn't help but beam at the sight of the ring around her finger. He was looking forward to the summer, to returning home to France (this time not alone) and to planning the wedding. As he and Rose parted ways to their respective seats, he looked up, giving his colleagues a friendly smile. "Good evening, Headmistress," he greeted the woman seated in the middle of the table. "Jordan, Kay, Justin..." He nodded politely toward each of them in turn. "Anyone have any exciting summer plans?"

Gaston took his familiar seat next to Jordan and looked out at the empty house tables. He wondered if his neighbor was going to tease him tonight. Usually it caught him off guard, but tonight he had a reply in mind that would come as a big surprise to him!

Camilla wasn't first nor was she last arriving at the staff Dais this evening. Her brown eyes scanned over those already seated as she made her way to their table. The end of her first term as a professor was now here and honestly she was a bit glad that it was, the year had been a rough one. Things were looking up now as the school was once again calm and summer break was nearer then ever.

"Good evening everyone," she greeted them all warmly. "Is everyone ready for the break?" She was. A few months to travel, be out in the sun and a chance to refocus on all things important. Taking her seat at the end of the table beside Art she smiled and nodded at Gaston. "Mostly traveling. Some hiking, camping and such...which I'll bringing Rose and Kay with me for." Rose had told him about that already she was sure? It would only be for a weekend most likely.

The term was drawing to a close with the feast and Laurel was glad that the students, most of all got a whole summer to put the traumatic monster and portal business behind them. Coming up onto the staff dais in her flowery dress that the cards had chosen for her to wear for the evening, the blond diviner slipped into her seat next to Regina. Turning her blue eyed gaze to the headmistress first Laurel greeted kindly. "Good evening Regina, congratulations to making it through your first year as head of Hogwarts."

Letting her gaze drift from face to face of her already seated colleagues Laurel greeted each of them a warm smile pursing her lips. "Good evening Jordan, Justin, Kay, Gaston, Rosalyn and Camilla." Hearing Gaston's question she responded back after some thought to him. "My summer plans are to go to a Seer convention, spend time with family and friends, shop and to just relax and read some books that I've neglected during the year. What are your plans?"

It was with sadness that Art made his way to the Staff Dais. He had packed away all of his things, besides a few notes for his successor in both the Potions and Gryffindor areas. Nothing too personal. Well wishes, mostly. And whilst his heart was full of eagerness to be with his dear family, and dear Liesel again, he was heartbroken at the thought of leaving. For good.

"Good evening everyone," he said, attempting to shove all of his sadness into a box. He didn't want to dampen any mood tonight. "Congratulations Justin, the snakes very much deserved this victory," Art said, giving his colleague a pat on the shoulder.

"Hey Justin." The CoMC professor greeted the man who just showed up. "Another victory for Slytherin, huh? Congratulations." He admitted that the Slytherin students worked very hard and they totally deserved another house cup. Jordan noticed that Kay had arrived too and at least now she acknowledged his appearance, despite that she had been avoiding him since that day. "Kaysha." He nodded. "At least you realized that I exist." He said trying to ease the awkwardness.

Let's just forget about what had happened for a while and enjoy the feast. "Here comes the lovey dovey couple." He muttered as he saw Gaston and Rosalyn walked together across the hall. Get a room, you two. He wanted to shout it out but well, maybe letting both of them being happy together would be a better idea. "Good evening, lover boy." He teased the charm professor. "I'm going to backpack around Asia." Responding his question about the summer plan. "You?" Then Jordan turned into another Stewart lady. "Could anyone be not ready for a break, Camilla?" He asked the transfiguration professor. "So how's your first year teaching the students so far?"

"Hello Laurel," He said as the woman came. Seeing Arthur walked into the staff dais, Jordan greeted the old man. "I heard you're retiring, sir." He knew that it was not an easy decision to not come back next term but the Potion master might have a reason behind it.

The blonde couldn't believe this term was already over. Caroleena walked into the great hall and made her way toward the staff table. It felt really good to see a victory for her former house while teaching her. Her had a great sense of pride for all the hard work that Slytherin had put in. All the houses put in very amazing work this term.

"Hello everyone." she smiled, her voice a little cheerful in tone. "Congratulations to Slytherin for winning the cup." she said and sent a smile over to Justin. She had some major house pride right now. Caroleena nodded towards the other professors and took her seat at the table.

The end of term couldn't have come sooner, in his opinion. It wasn't as if he was as run down as he had been the previous year but there was no denying that they needed a break. A good long holiday. In fact, all of them did.

As per tradition, Hirsch was dressed in much casual wear than he would be for a start of term feast. His hands were dug deep into his pockets and the familiar Ravenclaw badge was pinned to his chest. Wearing this badge had almost become a tradition in itself and he couldn't see himself attending a feast without it.

When he reached the staff dias, the Defence Professor looked, first, at Regina. "Congratulations on getting through your first year as Headmistress." There was a small smile on his face, one that showed a hint of a dimple on his cheek. Considering the business with the portal, it couldn't have been an easy job but she was still sitting here, wasn't she?

The next person he addressed? Justin McLeod, someone who knew enough embarrassing teenage stories about him to last him a lifetime. "Congratulations on the win, Justin. You must be very proud." How long have Slytherin been winning the House Cup? He couldn't remember.

His attention was then drawn towards the others who were seated on the table and who had better punctuality than him, it seemed. "Good evening, everyone," Including Kaysha who'd tried to get him to dance. Roderik Hirsch didn't dance. "Excited for the holidays?" He certainly was.

And speaking of, where was River?

He glanced over at the empty Healer seat and then towards the doors of the Great Hall. Huh. Maybe he was still preoccupied, then. Shrugging slightly, the man turned around and went to sit down in his usual seat right next to Laurel. Considering the fact that they were always sitting together for these feasts and knew each other pretty well by now, she got an extra smile and another greeting. It was good to see her again.

When he had the chance, Hirsch looked around at the Great Hall and his eyes landed on the Ravenclaw table. He initially wanted to go and sit there, with his troubled Ravenclaws but it wasn't exactly cool to have your professor hanging around, was it? He would go and check on them later, when Regina had given her speech. Not that he knew what he wanted to say but a quick check couldn't hurt.

And there was a certain Slytherin he needed to see as well.

But for now, he could wait.

Viktor was really glad this term was over for more than just well the obvious reasons. This time Viktor decided on more casual wear though not too casual. And apparently, he was later than usual because even Hirsch was here. Where did the time go? Oh yeah packing. Or the begin of packing because he still has a lot of nice stuff he had left.

"Evening, Everyone"

A nod to the men and a nod and a smile to the ladies. He finally made his way to his seat at the end. Oh yeah, he had forgotten Slytherin had won. Justin must be happy.

Wait, was he the last one to arrive at the table????


Interesting, though he was probably wrong

Kay wasn’t trying to be dramatic or anything but she really didn’t want to speak to Jordan. She thought it was better if she just be away from him for a while. The woman had a feeling she had ruined their friendship by revealing her feelings (which was something that she would usually do yet had decided to take the risk). So, she simply nodded to him.

Luckily, the other staffers began to arrive because as much as Kay tried to go over her summer plans, she couldn’t help but remember that Jordan was right there. Like just a few feet away from her. She needed better distractions. “Gaston, Rose,’’ she greeted her best friend and her boyfriend. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes at them. They were always so mushy. Gracious! And there was Cami. Hi, cousin! “Yes, us girls are going for a weekend getaway.’’ She could do with it. With all the horror of the portals and the monster, they could all use a good retreat.

“Hello, Laurel. Are our shopping plans still on?’’ She loved shopping with the Divination professor and was thinking this might become one of her summer traditions. Her eyes moved somewhat sadly to Art. He was one of the persons she’d miss the most. “We’ll stay in contact, yes? You as well, Caroleena?’’ Kay had a smile for both Roderik and Viktor. “Hello, boys.’’

Finally the end of term had approached, and it couldn't have come sooner in Rosalyn's opinion. Even though a few weeks had passed since the monster had been dealt with, everything was still on her mind as much as ever. How could it not after what had happened to Abey and Simon? If only she and Kay hadn't left the boys to head to Viktor's office on their own...

No matter because everything was right again. They were even down two poltergeists, though sadly enough she would miss Miffy a little. The way that she had agreed to help and went through the portal with Storm had gained respect from Rosalyn; now that was how a mother acted when it came to their child.

Happily she smiled at Gaston, excited for what was going to be coming up for them this summer and next. Next summer was going to be especially exciting though she hadn't told anyone about the wedding yet, what with everything had had been going on. Kay would be the first to hear being the best friend and all, but everyone else would as well. For now she would just check to see how her friend was doing; this was the end of term and Jordan would obviously be there. Hopefully everything would be okay.

Squeezing his shoulder affectionately, she made her way over to her seat, sending greetings to the everyone as she passed them. "So how is everyone doing? Are you all as excited for the holidays as I am?" she asked the whole group. "How are you doing, Kay?" she asked her best friend. Was she feeling better now?

"Good evening Laurel, Art," she greeted them both with warm smiles. Brown eyes strayed back towards her cousin and she laughed. "Maybe longer then a weekend. We'll see what happens?" Who really knew what adventures awaited them once they were out there.

This was true. Camilla nodded in agreement turning her attention towards Jordan once more. "At this point in time I don't think anyone here would turn down a break from it all." She wasn't just talking about everything that had happened with the portal either. The following question brought a smile to her face. "I think it went very well. It's different from teaching the much younger children but I enjoyed it and I think for the most part they did as well." Or at least she hoped so.

"Hello Caroleena, Roderik, Viktor," she greeted them all with another smile. Taking another look up and down the table she realized River wasn't here yet. Strange. Hopefully everything was alright in the Hospital wing and he was simply running a tad late.

Oh! Here came all the students. Camilla turned her attention briefly onto all the students coming in.

Finally, the End of Term Feast was upon them, and River couldn’t be any happier. He could finally go to bed in peace, and just...not think of anything else but rest. All of them went through a very rough and crazy term, and the best part of it was that all of them saw through the end, and put up a good fight. After ushering out the remaining patients in the Hospital Wing, River inconspicuously walked through the door of the Great Hall, took the side aisle and gave those students who met his eyes a smile and a nod. He was sure that they were as ready as the adults up the staff dais for the summer.

River passed by his colleagues, and gave them all a small wave and a nod of apology, “I’m sorry I’m late. I had to usher out clingy students out of the Hospital Wing.” They were all healthy enough to go home, albeit some of them a bit traumatised still by the events from two weeks ago. The Healer gave Hirsch a good punch on the arm and a knowing grin, because they were going to have a really epic summer ahead. “Good evening, Regina.” He said as he passed by his boss, and then towards where Camilla sat, “Hello,” he made his presence known and sort of...excused himself from intruding her conversation with their fellow colleagues. “I forgot to give this to you. It’s a thank you gift for looking after me.” Yes, Camilla, he did figure out who kept on leaving food for him whenever he missed breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It was very thoughtful of her, really. “It’s the compass I bought back in Hogsmeade. It’s charmed to point out natural and cultural treasures when you’re out travelling. It should help you point the best places to visit.” She was, after all, a backpacker like himself so he knew it would come in very handy for her. “Anyway, thank you again and have a great summer ahead.” River grinned at the Transfiguration professor, and turned to take his seat next to Justin. But before doing so, he gave the Potions Master a quick squeeze on the shoulder, "Hello, Art." Hopefully he wasn't feeling that sad about...things. If anything, he should be happy to finally have the time for his family.

And finally, onto his chair, “Congratulations, Justin.” He said, giving the Groundskeeper and Flying Instructor a smile. He’s heard of rumours too, but he would keep his mouth shut from asking because he thought it’d be rude when the man clearly was having his moment. River relaxed on his chair as he briefly closed his eyes, and took the chance to review the term that passed by. His first term as Healer had been an exciting one, and crazy as it may sound, he did look forward to the next.

She had been sitting at the Slytherin table looking up at the staff table thinking. Her thoughts getting the best of her until she finally decided she was just going to go up. It was her last evening there what were they going to do take points for her coming to the staff table and interrupting their conversations?


Taking a deep breath she headed up just when Healer Reed had been coming in and she caught what he had said. She couldn't help but grin. "Some of us aren't that clingy." Okay she was one of them that had been probably annoying him the last few months. She was probably one of the biggest annoyances since January if she really thought about. She looked at all the staff really, but especially Healer Reed, Professor Hirsch, and Professor K. Stewart. "I don't want to bother you while you eat so I thought I'd just come up now to say thank you once last time. Thank you for all you've done these last four years that I have been here."


She wasn't going to get emotional, she wasn't going to get emotional. Yes she probably was.

Um, so, it must have been QUITE the term, because Paul Myers had decided to take a NAP earlier, and had overslept, and now he was LATE TO THE END OF YEAR FEAST.

The white-haired man ran SO FAST to the Great Hall, that he was slipping on his left and final shoe onto his foot as he hopped towards the Staff Table. MERLIN'S PANTS. HOW HAD HE OVERSLEPT-----oh yeah. THIS term was BLOOOODYYYYYY STRESSFUL AS HECK.

HMPH.

Monster, PORTALS? POLTERGEISTS? OH MY! Not to mention being DEPUTY HEADMASTER and all and feeling ABSOLUTELY HELPLESS FOR A LONG TIME and just..ego;jhgiurtghrthg. He took his seat as he nodded towards everyone. He usually brought flowers for those leaving! But HE HAD FORGOTTEN. Of course. He HAD to made sure he got something for those her cherished here on staff ;__; Honestly, he felt so out of place, anxious, and a little odd, probably because he was so disoriented, but he squinted at the Hufflepuff table to make sure...everyone was good. It seemed everyone was good.

"Good evening all! I've clearly not had the best day! Excuse my lateness!" Oops. Regina would probably be...a bit cross with him >.>

Natalia! Paul didn't like to see anyone go...

Leon too had wanted to go say goodbye to some Peofrssors and since he saw Natalia head on up there, he rose from his place at the Ravenclaw table and moved up to the Staff table..He smiled at Nat and nodded at her, he'd say his goodbye to her later.. but first..

"I didn't want to disturb your meal with, but I want to say.. Thank you as well, All of you. For the seven years I've been here, you all have been like family to me.. and each one of you has helped shape me on my journey... "

Were his grey eyes watery? Maybe it was the lighting in the room? Because he felt a bit choked up..

" Professor Meyers, Professor Hirsch, Healer Reed.. " He addressed them and looked at each of them.. "I just wanted to say a special thanks to the three of you and I was wondering.. could you alll look after Az next year? I won't be here for her.. And I know how much she looks up to all of you.. and she speaks so highly of your nephew Healer Reed.. "

Leon swallowed hard..

"Thanks again for everything.. "

Laurel was looking out over the tables as the students started to enter and sit down at their separate tables when Art arrived on the dais. As the lovely senior man passed her seat she turned and murmured quietly to him. "Good evening Arthur, I will miss you. I hope we can stay in touch via owls?" Laurel had known before he had announced it but she had hoped that her Inner Eye had been wrong. Alas it was not.

Hearing Jordan's greeting she turned her gaze to the CoMC professor. "Hey, Jordan! I didn't know you liked backpacking? I urge you to keep safe during your travel." Laurel had seen things to come in his future and not just concerning Kay.

Caroleena arrived some moments later and took her seat at the end of the table and Laurel returned her nod with a small smile. "Good evening Caroleena, nice dress! Flowers are just lovely, don't you think?"

Laurel had just sat down her goblet after taking a sip of cold pumpkin juice that she had just poured into it when Roderick slipped into his seat next to her. Beaming at him she greeted. "Good evening Roderick! Are you going to be adventuring this summer together with River?" Before she could say or ask the DADA professor anything else Viktor arrived in semi-formal wear for the feast which was slightly odd, but so had Hirsch admittedly. Catching Viktor's gaze she shot him a smile and a greeting. "Good evening Viktor, are you ready for some summer vacation?"

She was about steal a glance at her watch to see how much time was left until Regina held her speech when Kay interrupted her. Looking over at her friend she beamed warmly. "Of course our shopping plans are still on Kay. I wouldn't pass that up for anything. Shall we still meet at Malkins?" Would she be dragging Camilla along?

Looking over at Rosalyn that had separated herself from Gaston and had sat down in her seat next to Kay she shot her friend a smile. "Evening Rosalyn, I'm all right. I'm excited for some vacation. I think we all need some fun after the events of this year. Will you be joining me and Kay for some shopping in DA this summer?" If she did then it'd be tradition since the three of them would do it for the second year in a row.

Taking another sip of juice Laurel's head swiveled around at the sound of her name. Flashing Camilla a warm smile she greeted "Hello Camilla!" Before the diviner could utter anything else River arrived in a brown suit that got looks from her closely followed by Paul that looked stressed and anxious. Did River have a calming draught in his suit pocket for the deputy headmaster? Anyways Laurel gave the two men big smiles and said "Good evening River and Paul!"

Cami and Laurel arrived only moments after Gaston had. "Good evening, ladies," he returned their greetings with a warm smile. He chuckled a little at what Cami said about the hiking trip. "Yes, she might've mentioned it. I think I can spare her for one weekend," he joked. He just thought of something. "Is Bonsai coming along?" He would gladly offer his services as a cat-sitter if necessary. Phantom would enjoy having a friend to play with for a weekend!

Then he turned his attention to Laurel. "Oh, that sounds interesting!" he said when she told him about the Seer convention. "Where is the convention?" It wasn't some secret location that only Seers knew about, was it? Jordan calling him 'lover boy' got a laugh from Gaston, but he was a little surprised. That was it? No calling Rose Mrs. Marchand? No asking if he'd proposed yet? Well, there went his setup for the big news! He nodded in reply to Jordan's plans. "Sounds fun." he said. He'd gone backpacking once; it was a disaster! He answered both of their questions about his summer plans at the same time, "Nothing much... returning to France for a while, catching up with some old friends, making big plans for the future..." Hint, hint.

More people had shown up. "Hello, Art, Caroleena," he greeted the latest arrivals. He'd heard the news of both of them leaving. He wasn't exactly surprised by it, but still it made him sad. He had a tremendous amount of respect for both of them! At least in Art's case, it wasn't goodbye forever; he'd probably be seeing a lot of his future uncle-in-law outside Hogwarts. And he was sure Beaubatons would be glad to have Caroleena back!

Hirsch and Sokolov each got a polite nod in acknowledgement. "Good evening." Gaston turned to face his seatmate as he answered Hirsch's question, "Very! What about you? Any plans for the break?" Oh, here was River. Gaston had been wondering when he was going to show up. Watching the exchange between River and Cami made him smile; maybe he and Rosalyn wouldn't be the only staff couple next term! But what was that with him and Hirsch? He got the distinct feeling he was missing something...

Gaston was getting sad, though he wasn't sure why. Maybe it was because so many of his colleagues were leaving? Or having to say goodbye to another graduating class? Or seeing the sad, sullen expressions of so many students who were clearly still traumatized by this term's events? Or maybe it was because hearing everyone else's plans reminded him just how few friends he had? Whatever the case, he was so distracted by his thoughts that he barely noticed Paul arrive. The Deputy Headmaster only got a silent but polite nod as a greeting.

Then Miss Franks-Mundie appeared, followed shortly after by Mr. Kennedy. he adored them both, but good Godric Gryffindor! What bad timing! Though to be fair, they had no idea how sad he already was... or how deeply their thanks would affect him. He managed a small sad smile for the seventh years, but their words touched his heart and made him want to cry, especially when he saw Mr. Kennedy getting emotional. He had to take a deep breath before he could speak. "You're both very welcome, Natalia and Leon!" He couldn't bring himself to stand on formality, not on their last day! "Granted, I didn't have you in my class for long, but it's been an honor to to be your teacher." He pulled something out of his jacket pocket. "Here, I have a little going-away present for you..." He handed each of them a chocolate frog and a sealed envelope. Both of the envelopes contained a graduation card, but Natalia's had a little something extra. Hers also had a WerewolfSnout poster signed by all six members of the band including himself (plus three extra copies for the other members of The Sirens), a little something from one band to another. "Probably best not to open these at the table," he added quickly.

That reminded him! He still had cards and chocolate to give to the other seventh years!

"Thank you Jordan." He wondered if it was too early to ask about his future plans.. Nah, they could discuss it later on. Justin had a feeling the evening was going to be somewhat somber the longer he spent here tonight. Despite said feeling, Justin was pushing through with his usual brightness, "Evening Kay, Gaston, Rose.." Justin greeted back happily, "Why yes.. Zach and I will be taking our kids to Disney in the following month." He could not wait. "You bet Camilla, it'll be tougher leaving here though." Especially for this time. "Laurey. Are you still be joining us at Disney?" Little Lucy just loved her.

"Artie.." No, no. A simple pat was not going to suffice Justin as he grasped his hand to pull him into a quick hug, patting his back. "Thanks Artie, your lions put up a good fight." With Hufflepuff mostly, buut he wasn't going to be rubbing any salt to the wounds with specifics. It was sweet of the others congratulating his former house's victory. "Thanks Caroleena."

Look out now, his former student to well-received professor just arrived. "Thanks Roderik, and you bet I'm proud." Justin loved being a Papa Snake.. which reminded him. "Later on, there's something I got to ask you." Why so secretive? For old time's sake, that's why.

"Evening Viktor. Long night, eh?" First it'll be the kids arriving, the speech, the feasting after said speech and.. well everyone knew the rest. "River, thanks. It's been quite a year, hasn't it?" Especially for his first term. It was too bad they didn't get to spend much time together other than the few student escortings to his area. Just as the Deputy arrived. "There you are Paaul. I was debating on keeping your seat warm." Slight wink, there. "Excited for the summer?"

Oho, what a lovely arrival. Their Head Girl, despite some things that happened. Perhaps her focus was on other individuals at this table, but that didn't stop Justin. "You're welcome Natalia, now don't forget all that you've accomplished here living up to your title and house placing. You won't be forgotten." He grinned at her and at the Ravenclaw senior that was following suit. Justin gave the not-so-young man a curt nod. "You're quite welcome, Leon. You both have a brilliant future ahead of you." He was going to have special words as well for his snakes after the speech.

His reflection didn’t take long, considering that the air was charged with mixed emotions making it hard for the Healer to actually do his meditation in peace. How in the world does Jace do this thing? River opened his eyes, as any normal person would, when Paul reached the dais and took the seat next to him. “Still a bad day for you, Paul?” the man could really give himself a break now, given that everything was back to normal. “Deep breaths, Deputy Headmaster.” River grinned at the man, and turned to face the Divination Professor, “Hello there, Laurel.” And it seemed that she got her summer plans sorted out and such.

His gaze then landed on Gaston, wondering why he still looked sad. Was the man perpetually morose? “Cheer up, Gaston.” He greeted the man with an encouraging grin. Seriously, it was still a feast, and they were allowed to be a tad happy at the moment. It wasn’t as if the world was going to end tomorrow morning, right? Speaking of being happy, he ought to have asked the Charms professor to go along with him and Hirsch. Widen the man’s perspective of the great big world? Hah! River sat back on his chair again and nodded his head in agreement when the Slytherin Head of House acknowledged him. “I agree 100%, Justin. I do commend your Snakes’ bravery and determination all throughout the year.” He’d had a handful of Slytherins under his care, of which two of them stood out the most; Natalia and Carlton. “What’s next for you, though?” River scratched the side of his face, wondering what he’ll do when the time comes for him to leave Hogwarts.

River raised a brow, when the Head Girl took the chance to talk to them before the speech was even given. To be honest, he should’ve expected it given that Natalia is a rebel child. A good rebel child. The Healer simply nodded when he was personally acknowledged, giving Hirsch and Kay a glance as well, and allowed Justin and Gaston to talk first. River felt that it was impossible to make a good comeback to what Natalia said, given the fact that she came to him hanging by a thread and that they have gone through frustrating times together. There was just so much to say! Natalia was a tough nut to crack, but their combined efforts to turn her into the right path had been worth every single sleepless night he had, figuring out things for her when she wasn’t in the best state to think for herself. “You’re most welcome Head Girl Franks-Mundie, and my warmest congratulations to you for finishing Hogwarts. I am proud of you.” River tilted his head to the side, grinning from ear to ear as he took the chance to remember that moment. The Healer would’ve said more profound, heart-warming words for the graduating Slytherin, but River was confident that Natalia would be able to read between the lines. She’d been under his care for quite some time, and he hoped that he was sincerely proud of her victory.

Leon came up next, and he too got a nod of appreciation. “You’re welcome Master Kennedy, and no need to mention it, Miss Snow will be in good hands.” Of course, he’s learned a thing or two about the younger Ravenclaw because of the fair warnings Jace had given him before he started his work as the school’s healer. River let out a chuckle at the mention of Jace, “It’s safe to say that Jace would say the same for Azura. He never had a girl best friend before you see.” Jace would rather opt to do things on his own, so meeting Azura was definitely a good change. “I wish you well in your future endeavours, Master Kennedy. And stay fit.” It would really be a shame if the boy got rid of all those muscles.

She had been sitting in an empty hall for a handful of minutes, just reflecting and mentally running through the basics of the speech she had planned, until the Care of Magical Creatures professor was the first to arrive. He was welcomed with a smile, and there were honestly mixed feelings in it considering his letter of resignation. The woman did like him as a colleague and professor. "Thank you, Jordan. It was ... an exhausting experience," she responded honestly, though with a lighthearted tone, with a small laugh. "They should have mentioned 'potential portal mishaps' in the job description."

Her eyes moved from Jordan to those who were making their way up to the staff table. Justin and Kaysha professor both received a nod of her head before they went to their respective seats; Gaston and Rosalyn both got a blank stare -- one that would immediately tell them to stop displaying their mushy behaviour in public because it was unprofessional and she was not going to put up with it; Camilla received a warm smile as she walked by; Laurel was given the same smile and a 'thank you' as she took her seat; Arthur, bless his soul, was another member of the staff that received a smile with mixed feelings; cheerful Caroleena received a small wave; Roderik made her smile the most, though that was because she was amused by that slight dimple on his cheek; Viktor was given a courteous nod as he made his way to his end of the table; she then looked out and noticed that students had found their way to the hall as well...

And then she caught sight of River and Paul. Both of them were recipients of her eye-daggers for their tardiness. When River gave his reasoning, she nodded her head in understanding, knowing just how busy he had been this term with the amount of students being sent there. As for Paul, well, she wasn't going to be so forgiving with the Deputy Headmaster. They would be having a conversation later.

In the meantime, Regina preoccupied herself with listening in on the summer plans that they had. Travelling, a Seer convention, backpacking around Asia, a girls' weekend away... it all reminded her of that she was on the cusp of spending some time in Egypt before returning to her school administration duties. She was about to pipe up and share that with her colleagues, though her attention quickly shifted over to two graduating students.

Natalia Franks-Mundie and Leon Kennedy both received a look from her, if they were paying attention to her facial expressions amid the professors they had come up to the table specifically to see. Did they not learn by this point in their academic career that they needed to wait until after the speech was given to approach the staff table? Speaking of the speech, the headmistress was ready to give it considering all of the tables had filled up ... but two certain students needed to depart before some last-minute points were docked. The term was not over until they were on the train.