Max looked at the time and knew that it the fun had to end soon. So he pulled Lainey with him over to a sturdy wooden table. "Don't run. Just stand there and smile and wave. Make the students realize that you are happy to be here," he whispered to her before climbing onto the table.

He pulled out his wand and held it to his neck while using the Sonorus spell.

Vindictus's voice boomed throughout the common room and over the chatter of the students.

"Students of Ravenclaw, this beautiful and intelligent woman standing to my left is Professor Lainey, the History of Magic professor. Please give her a warm welcome," he announced cheerfully to the house and began clapping.

The applause lasted for several minutes and then he continued with his speech.

"Ravenclaws, I want to take this time to remind all of you that this celebration is for last term's achievements. We won the House Cup after an intense race and for the first time in house history, claimed the Gobstones Club trophy. Well done, Ravenclaw!"

"Yet, we cannot rest on our laurels from the past. This is a new term and we must start all over again. Every one of you needs to help your House this term. Commit yourself to earning points through class participation and homework. Do good deeds for others. Show up at the Quidditch and Gobstone matches to support Ravenclaw. Get involved in other school activities. Show the other houses that Ravenclaw is the very best!"

Dramatic pause.

"Our House has an illustrious heritage. We are the house where wit and intelligence reign supreme. We are the house that always rises to the occasion. We are Ravenclaw and may we continue to soar!"

Vindictus glanced at Miles and Cela. Did they want to say something, too?