Amongst the creature paddock, looking partially organized in the way that suggested Professor Menon had, at some point, intended to clean properly before class and then simply decided against it. Brushes, folded blankets, and half-opened crates sat scattered beneath the shade of the trees while several wicker baskets lined with old quilts shifted with occasional movement from inside.

Kraetos after leaning against the fence with sleeves rolled unevenly to his elbows, bits of pale fur already clinging stubbornly to his dark robes when students came one by one. Among them, Miss Gracae-Ryans, gave a nod to him. He responded as well with on, "Welcome in, Miss Gracae-Ryans." Followed by, "Ah, hello, Miss Patterson." Surely her twin was following right after her. Then came in... "Mr. Grunt, welcome, but remember to ask before bringing your familiar alongside next time." Before others start bringing theirs.. Some creatures could find them as a tasty treat, ahem. "But today, your Nesquik might find themselves in pleasant company." Then came in, "Hello, Miss Bay, come on and settle in." There was plenty of space here.

A sharp yowl sounded from one of the baskets. "Yeah.. you’ll survive," he muttered toward it before looking back at the class. Clearly, it caught wind of his intended statement earlier.

Menon's gaze swept briefly across the gathered students.

"Welcome back, everyone. Before we start, think about any animal or magical creature you’ve spent time around before. Doesn’t matter if it was yours, someone else’s, or if it only tolerated your existence for five minutes." He shoved his hands into his pockets. "What’s something you learned about earning an animal’s trust?" Another basket rattled sharply. "And no, feeding it until it stops hating you doesn’t count as a personality trait." The movement inside the baskets continued intermittently as the professor waited for responses.


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OOC: Welcome, everyone! Class has officially started, so new posters can join in as if they’ve been here to avoid IC late arrival consequences. The next post will be in at least a day from now.

SPOILER!!: responses

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

What were moving around in the baskets under the quilts? Cats? Intrigued Tiana watched the baskets for more movement. The sharp yowl sound that suddenly pierced the air made her strongly think of cats. Hearing Professor Menon's question, Tiana mulled on it for a bit before raising her hand and answering thoughtfully. "I think you should show the animal that you are kind, patient and respectful towards it if you're encountering it for the first time by for example trying to play with it, but not pet it too much unless the animal showes that it likes to be petted." To corner a new animal that you had never met before was not a good way to go either since that could scare the creature and make it angry towards you. Showering it with food or treats as Professor Menon said was probably not a good idea either. Hopefully Tiana's ideas wasn't too bad since that was what she had done when they had gotten new pets at home.

"That's one way, but you nailed it with the key word, respect." Kraetos said.

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19

Iddy was quite confused. He needed to get permission for Nessy to come by to say hi? “Okay, professor,’’ he replied slowly. Then he nodded vigorously, recovering somewhat from his confusion as Menon’s words sank in. “As delightful as that sounds, I think Nessy has other plans.” He nodded his fluffy head in the direction in which a pink streak had taken off - which was towards the Sanctuary exit/entrance. Nessy had never intended to stay. “I think he has plans to find Rory’s Oreo!” Yes, that made lots of sense. Those two were excellent friends. And speaking of Rory…

His fur baby encountered the Hufflepuff as she made an appearance, receiving some loving pats on the head and scritches behind an ear. After a headbutt against her foot, he continued streaking off until he had vanished from the gathering. Bye bye for now, Nessy baby “Hi, Rory!” Idris happy wiggled in place, pleased that she had joined him and Paul.

But WHAT was that yowl? In the usual cat-like fashion, the Gryffindor’s ears perked up and his ears swivelled in the sound’s direction. The weather was neither that xerothermic nor frigid but maybe the weather could still be a reason for its… discomfort? Or were they hungry. Id had plenty of cat treats in his bag if that was the case!

Ooh!

What a lovely question to start off the lesson! Because there was already an answer in mind, Id’s hand shot up almost immediately. And it sort of piggybacked off of Tiana’s answer. “As true as the quaffle diameter is twelve, it takes time and a lot of dedication to win and maintain a creature’s trust. Always being kind, patient and respectful as Tiana said, goes a long way in that.” That was exactly how and why he and Nesquik were so close

"Precisely." Mr. Grunt had a good head on his shoulders, aside from the pink one wandering towards a basket.

Quote:

Originally Posted by WhittyBitty

Oh.

There went Nessy. Aurora watched as he wandered off. Maybe Idris was right and he had left to try and find Oreo. She beamed. It was so sweet to see how fond their pets were of each other. They were great friends, like her and Idris.

She grinned at him and his wiggle of happiness. ”Hey!” But before she could say more, the lesson was starting. She nodded along to what both Tiana and Idris said, then raised her hand. ”Showing gentleness helps a lot. Don’t make any fast movements or act forcefully. Let the creature call the shots. Show it that you’re receptive to it, but let it make the first move. And keep being gentle when it approaches you. Pay attention to what it likes and doesn’t like. Let it see that you aren’t a threat.”

"Yes, but be careful on which creature, since too much gentleness can create an aura to make one a target."

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhoenixRising

Bee loved the outdoors, but she hated the cold. It was really quite the conundrum especially when she was forced to be outdoors for quidditch practices and matches. She was eternally grateful for the heating Charms Professor Menon provided upon the sanctuary. Gazing around she took seat near Aurora, because while playing for the house team the past few months had somewhat brought her out of her shell, she took comfort in those most familiar.

She considered the question for a moment, listening to her peers speak before raising her hand. "Much like humans, creatures are unique in that some creatures you will earn their trust quickly. So it's important to know what creature you're dealing with when trying to earn its trust since every creature is different. Some may require words of affirmation, some just consistently showing up and providing it, some may never trust you... sometimes yes, even food is the way."

"Yes, it varies on the creature. One correct technique does not work with everyone."

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArianaBlack

Laini was growing bored and restless as she waited for the rest of the "classroom" to fill out. People are really taking their time getting here today, huh? She barely managed to cover a yawn.

When FINALLY their professor took to the front and kicked things off with a question, Laini was relieved. The sooner they start, the sooner this is over and she could go back to her training regime. Still, she didn't jump to answer the question and, instead, waited to hear from everyone else first. So eager.

So far, every answer was the same. Patience, respect, being gentle, words of affirmation, blah blah blah. Were they just describing Hufflepuff house?

So when it was her turn to answer, she shrugged. "Easy. Don't be an idiot." It was self explanatory. You earned an animals trust the same way you went about earning anyone's trust. And being an idiot? That usually got you a kick to the unmentionables. Unless you were dealing with one Laini Sage Gracae-Ryans, in which case you were likely to be bitten.

Terrifying how many people lacked a morsel of common sense.

You know how much Kraetos wanted to laugh at this? It was an out of the ordinary response, after all, as correct as it is. But being the professional, the hint of a smile may have presented itself in his eyes within his straight face. "More context would be needed, but keep a hold of that directness."

Once the discussion had settled somewhat, another yowl occurred. Patience was being tested now. "Alright, your responses were well intended and came from the heart. That's the key, your intention despite it all. Now you may have noticed the absence of a certain creature among the pens when arriving. And nope, there was no shifting around." Kraetos crouched beside one of the baskets to lift, revealing an unusually fluffy silver Kneazle and a yellow puffy one with a few kittens. Knittens, to be cute. The creature’s ears flicked sharply as it examined the class with immediate suspicion. "These are Kneazles. Intelligent, territorial, and generally better judges of character than most people." Adding, "Over the course of the year, Mister Meowgi and Sassy have produced a good number of baby kneazles, knittens, we shall refer to them." Lifting one up, the knitten shifted its paws against his shoulder as he adjusted his grip.

"Now, the Ministry prohibits one to adopt any without a license. Which is why there are licensed breeders who are careful with crossbreeding any Kneazles with regular muggle cats. Kneazles that are professionally tamed or hybrid descendants can make excellent companions when cared for properly. Problem is most owners think ‘cared for properly’ means feeding them and occasionally remembering they exist."

He scratched carefully behind the Kneazle’s ears while continuing.

"Today’s lesson is grooming and coat maintenance. Not because it makes them look nice. Neglected fur mats against the skin, traps moisture, overheats them, and makes them miserable." The Kneazle gave a low rumbling purr. "And miserable Kneazles tend to introduce their claws to your bloodstream. So let's allow them to gain comfort within you, if you're near a basket, you can lift it and set it aside. Amongst them are supplies, but don't touch the supplies or reach out towards the Kneazle yet. Allow them to come to you while we ponder the next question.." As he said so, Sassy the Kneazle began walking around followed by a couple of the knittens. Mister Meowgi meanwhile decided this was the perfect time to 'bathe' themselves while sitting.

Kraetos glanced between the students and the creatures. "What are the benefits to grooming and how much do you think it affects their behavior as much as physical health?."


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OOC: Thank you for waiting! You have another day at least to respond to the next question while observing the kneazles interact with the environment or you.

SPOILER!!: responses

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Awwwwwwwww! The kneazles and their knittens looked so cute and Tiana wanted to reach out, and pet one right away, but kept her hands to herself. Professor Menons words from a minute ago rang in her ears. 'Let the knittens come to you....' She looked around her mat, and spotted a basket nearby which she lifted up, and set down closer to her mat so it was within easy reach for when the grooming activity started later.

Raising her hand to answer Tiana said thoughtfully "I think many creatures like it when someone takes time to brush their firs regularly, and cut off long claws at least my family pets do. One is a cat, and one is a cat/kneazle mix, and they both seem happier after I've groomed them. If a creature is happy, and content then that affects their behavior, and health positively i think." At least that was Tiana's idea, but she was no expert. If a cat or any creature weren't groomed often or had damaged fir or too long claws then that could affect them negatively both in mood and health.

"Yes, just like regular cats, they can enjoy being groomed by a trusted human. Though trimming their claws can still be an uncomfortable experience, tender care is the most important."

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19

It was quite clear that in some manner or the other, everyone’s responses were bouncing off the other. Which was quite lovely; plus everyone definitely knew that a lot of factors went into gaining the trust of a creature.

A certain creature missing? Iddy couldn’t say that he had, being so wrapped up in that trash of an article about his big brother. And then Menon made the most grand reveal that left the Gryffindor’s head spinning He reached out a hand to steady himself against Paully’s nearest arm as he studied the kneazles and knittens {HOW CUTE, BTW!!!}. The yellow one, in his opinion, its colour was vibrant enough to remind him of Hufflepuff House.

CUTE AGGRESSION WAS SETTLING IN!!!

Id was barely registering the words coming from the professor but it hardly mattered: Idris knew practically all of this information given his love for cats, kneazles and even the mundane feline creatures. However, the words ‘grooming’ and ‘coat maintenance’ pierced his overly excited mind, leaving him feeling even more dizzy. Oh, could they all start the grooming NOW?!

Id’s free hand raised slightly, though his gaze remained fixated on the knittens. See, they reminded his of baby Nesquik, and the day Paul picked out the tiny pink furball for him. “A careful and regular grooming routine,’’ he began in a rather squeaky and breathless voice. “Helps their physical health by preventing blockage in the intestines from hairballs which can form in the digestive tract when the cuties lick themselves. Er… there’s more to that but I’ve lost my train of thoughts, professor.” Iddy rather suspected that Menon knew exactly how the presence of the kneazles was affecting him - and in a good way. “I hope it doesn't turn into a Kobus Hendrik situation,’’ came a subsequent mutter.

Especially as mama Sassy and her itty bitty bitsy bbies were closer to him than they were before, there was definitely further difficulty in thinking. He might as well give up. So this was exactly what he did and gave into the cute aggression completely.

THOSE FUR BBIES WERE EVEN CUTER THIS CLOSE!!!

And with that thought, Idris Ace Grunt smoothly, and almost with the grace of a cat, slumped to the ground in a faint. Yep, he had lost consciousness

BEST. LESSON. EVER!!!

"Yes." Kraetos nodded, though he couldn't add anything more when Mr. Grunt seemed to be overwhelmed by the sight of all the knittens and Kneazles among them. One attempted to paw at him before Professor Menon reached over to get one of the smelling salts to hold under his nose. "Picked the right place to faint at." Waiting to see if they recovered in time otherwise they'll have to make a trip to the Hospital Wing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by WhittyBitty

Aurora nodded along to what Professor Menon said, but all other thoughts left her mind because kneazles and kneazle KITTENS. In an instant her mood matched Idris’ exactly, as the excitement took over her. She squealed.

THEY WERE SOOOOOO CUTE!!!

She wanted to adopt one right then and there so that Oreo would have a new kitten friend. And he would help look after the kitten because he was a GOOD BOY. The BEST BOY.

Somehow she managed to contain herself enough to raise her hand and answer the question. ”It also helps to keep their coats healthy and prevents them having to deal with painful matting. That definitely helps with both their health and behaviour.” Nod.

There was more that she could say, but KNEAZLE KITTENS!!!

"Yes, the matting makes it painful but also an easy target for certain pests to invade and make them even more uncomfortable and affect their health."

Quote:

Originally Posted by PhoenixRising

Well that was quite blunt of the older Slytherin girl, Laini. Don't be an idiot. Sadly while Bee was still like sixteen years young she'd seen far too many people falling for the trap of being an idiot. Particularly those in her age bracket, as she was sure that came with the territory of being a teenager. Hopefully under professor supervision her peers would behave themselves though.

In a moment after discussions, Professor Menon revealed two cats kneazles, along with a few knittens. She was much more of a reptile person, rather than enamored by fluffy things, but who could resist babies no matter the species. Even if she wasn't about that grooming maintenance lifestyle.

"Grooming helps to earn that trust... Sometimes self-care isn't as evident with creatures as it is with humans, so when the creatures know they're being taken care of, they lean into you more. They feel better."

She tilted her head in confusion over at Idris, "Who's Kobus Hendrick and what sort of situation do you mean?" she asked curiously. Sometimes spending the first 14-15 years of life on a different continent, she felt like a martian when it came to some of the historical figures on this side of the pond. She supposed she'd eventually get caught up.

"True, of course, there are some expections. Some just don't like contact in general, like how not every human enjoys being hugged. Though that can be from multiple factors." Before they went too deep into the topic.

"As expected, not a single one of you have disappointed me with your answers." Though, responses rarely disappointed Professor Menon in general. Actions were more of an impact. By the time the discussion ended, several Kneazle kittens had been arranged across low cushions near the center of the paddock. Beside them sat soft-bristled brushes, detangling combs, cloths, and small tins of coat conditioner. One periwinkle Kneazle, Zazzles, immediately attempted to drag a comb from one of the blankets.

Without looking away from the class, Kraetos reached down, retrieved the comb, and set it back beside the creature.

"Right. Watch first." Professor Menon picked up a brush and slowly ran it along the silver Kneazle, Mr. Meowgi's back. Which caused them to stop licking themselves, looking up at Professor Menon before settling into the experience. "You don’t start yanking at knots immediately. You let the creature figure out you’re not about to make its life worse."

The Kneazle’s posture visibly loosened beneath the brush.

"Pay attention to the body language. Ears relaxed. Tail still. No twitching."

He carefully shifted the brush behind its ears. "Most Kneazles dislike having their stomach or tail touched before they trust you. Ignore that if you want, but you’ll probably regret it unless you like a few scars."

Kraetos worked carefully through a small tangle in the creature’s fur. "Grooming’s maintenance work. You would check for burs, skin irritation, injuries, parasites, overheating. These Kneazles have already been checked and shouldn't have anythng out of the ordinary except some dirt and grime and fur to straight out. Half the point is noticing problems before the creature starts acting differently because of them."

He finally stepped aside from the cushion area.

"Pick up a comb or brush, and give it a clean once over before attempting to use it with one of the knittens, who will be more cooperative of you holding onto them to groom." The assortment of knittens shifted across the cushions, some calm while others remained visibly alert or restless. "Next up, we'll attempt the safest magical way on the Kneazles."



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OOC: Thank you for waiting! Catch up is allowed as now you'll attempt to groom the Kneazle kittens. In at least 48 hours, we'll move onto grooming Kneazles.

SPOILER!!: question

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19

For now, he happily watched as his professor demonstrated the grooming. He jiggled a knee impatiently, not because he knew the procedure already but because he was itching to groom a bby himself. While he watched and listened, the Gryffindor petted the knitten that he had found when he came-to. Yes, that little one had jumped into a hand and had settled against his chest quite contently. A few times it climbed his shoulder to nip an ear.

Soon enough though, he had the chance to get started on the brushing. “Professor.” The free hand was stretched in the air. “What’s this munchkin called?” Iddy needed to address them by their name, yes. While he had been finding that out, he had carefully gotten to his feet, now holding the knitten like one would hold a hooman baby. Once in the vicinity of the products and cushions, he resumed his original seating position, folding his legs again. A multi coloured brush with lime green bristles was selected. Balancing it on a knee, he magically had it cleaned - wandlessly like Mama Bea and Dad D taught him - and wordlessly.

An excellent question, "Ah, now that's where you all come in. You may name the knittens before you. It gives them a sense of familiarity to be associated and if they respond well, we can make that permanent." Menon said, so long as they are appropriately named. Ahem. "Now let's continue on with grooming the full grown kneazles now."

After the initial practice period, Kraetos moved toward the remaining baskets and opened them one at a time.

The additional Kneazles emerged with dramatically different temperaments almost immediately. Some wandered curiously around the paddock while others remained cautious near the baskets themselves. One climbed onto a crate and stayed there, staring down at the class with open judgment.

"Seeing as we don't want to force a Kneazle out of their autonomy, there is a spell that works as portable brush." Professor Menon then drew his wand out. "Now the spell, Elavio, pronounced as Eh-Lah-Vee-Yo." Adding, "This will charm the brush before you to appear and work on the nearest creature, in this case, the Kneazle. Think of it like the spell Tergeo, with the same intention to groom and clean the creature." To demonstrate, "A simple point at the object," Kraetos aimed his wand at the clean brush sitting before him, "Elavio." With a simple *POP* sound effect, the brush then reappeared on Mr. Meowgi working on its own brushing in a circular motion.

"It's easier to aim at the brush itself, but will also work aiming at the Kneazle. At worst, the brush will barely move or simply fall without brushing, so it's safe to attempt. NEWT students, when successful, attempt it without uttering the spell aloud." Adding, "Patience is key, it's okay if unsuccessful, the main objective is to produce effort and respecting the Kneazles before you." As the main take away, he awaited for any questions before adding. "Now you may begin."

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OOC: Thank you for waiting! Catch up is allowed as now you'll attempt to groom a Kneazle with the spell. You have at least 48 hours to work on this. If any questions, feel free to ask as Menon will be present.