Alfred was cheerful tonight, but he was cheerful every time a feast happened. In fact, it was rare that the Friar was not cheerful. In he swooped, passing by some of the other tables. He gave the Baron a nod, Nick a wave. Was Lady Helena here yet?

Marion! Oh, how he missed Marion! Sure, she was always lingering around like himself, but he hadn't conversed with her recently. He would just have to change this! Marion was a hoot and a holler in a half! Hufflepuff, too, like himself! This was so marvelous!

"Good evening, everyone!" he said with a jolly laugh as he approached the yellow-clad table. "Welcome back, everyone! And those of you who are new, welcome welcome! I am so happy to see you all!" He stopped next to Brian, the new prefect. He had high hopes for both Brian and Juno Darcy. They were exactly what should envelop a Hufflepuff student! "I have high hopes for this term, badgers!"