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Con_Stripes · #1 (**permalink**) 05-11-2009, 09:02 AM

The first thing you notice about this office is the exceptionally large desk, which, if you look closer; seems to have unusual scuffmarks on its surface. Perhaps it serves a less mundane purpose than simply a desk? A large and comfortable looking chair sits behind it; obviously this is Ethan’s chair though you will rarely find him sitting in it.

Three smaller, yet no less comfortable looking chairs are arranged facing the desk, ready for any visiting students to take a seat. While waiting you might notice a large bookcase along one wall; though there are no books on it. Instead it is brimming with photo frames. Pictures of Ethan in his days as a student at WADA (if you look closely at the one on the left, you might recognize another Hogwarts staff member shuffling a pack of cards and doing one of those hit-with-the-ladies grins that former rockstars are quite good at) , one of him as a thirteen year old in Slytherin robes, a selection of him a few years ago with various dragons in the background, a newer one featuring dragons (and a certain fiery red headed professor), one of him on a muggle sailing ship, another on stage dressed in tights and holding a skull and one of him in Egypt working with curse breakers.

An old looking gramophone sits on the bookcase with a selection of records stacked haphazardly to one side, various eras of music are represented; of both the wizarding and the muggle variety. On the walls his OWL and NEWT results are proudly displayed alongside certificates proclaiming his knowledge and familiarity with various Dragon breeds.

A large basket sits in one corner, and a slight snoring sound can often be heard coming from this direction where Ethan’s chihuahua makes its bed.

The walls and ceiling are blue for reasons Truebridge hasn’t discovered, and he's been meaning to do something about that.

There are some fairly intense precautions against intruders this term, many charms are weaved around the doorway, the windows, all over the floors and on his desk drawers. If you go poking about, you will quite literally be caught 'red handed', startled by a ridiculously loud caterwauling charm (which might likely be heard from the Defense Against the Dark Arts and Muggle Studies classrooms), possibly glued to whichever surface you touch and maybe even temporarily blinded. If you happen to have any difficulties with your joints, particularly your hips, it would be wise not to enter without making an appointment, the floor has been cursed to dislocate joints which have already suffered irreversible spell damage.

He was even contemplating an age line to keep anyone over 100 years out.

It might be said that Professor Truebridge has grown slightly paranoid after his duel with Professor Kazimeriz the previous term.

In any case, there is now a wooden bench and a large and dusty ledger outside of his office If you wish to speak to him, you need to write your name in the ledger and take a seat on the bench, or alternatively, leave a note in the ledger and Professor Truebridge will owl you when he has a free moment.

Cassirin · 05-25-2009, 06:49 PM

Copernicus quietly entered the office and very carefully closed the door behind him. He was quite aware that this was rather early in the term to be making visits to the professors, especially since classes were only just beginning. It couldn't be helped, though. He had two rather pressing needs, and one of them was about six years too late.

"I'm sorry to disturb you, Professor. I wonder if I might bother you for just a few minutes today."

Con_Stripes · 05-26-2009, 03:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Copernicus quietly entered the office and very carefully closed the door behind him. He was quite aware that this was rather early in the term to be making visits to the professors, especially since classes were only just beginning. It couldn't be helped, though. He had two rather pressing needs, and one of them was about six years too late.

"I'm sorry to disturb you, Professor. I wonder if I might bother you for just a few minutes today."

"Not a problem at all, Copernicus." Ethan narrowed his eyes at the Ravenclaw boy. "Would you mind turning out your pockets? There's a tray over there you can put your things on." He flicked his wand at the Ravenclaw boy, scanning him for... anything suspicious.

Truebridge headed to his desk and perched on the end of it.

"What can I do for you?"

Cassirin · 05-26-2009, 03:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NicoT

"Not a problem at all, Copernicus." Ethan narrowed his eyes at the Ravenclaw boy. "Would you mind turning out your pockets? There's a tray over there you can put your things on." He flicked his wand at the Ravenclaw boy, scanning him for... anything suspicious.

Truebridge headed to his desk and perched on the end of it.

"What can I do for you?"

Copernicus had nothing in his pockets aside from a small vial filled with silvery liquid, a worn copy of Pride and Prejudice, and his wand, all of which he set hesitantly into the tray. He NEEDED those things. With one last glance at the tray, he settled finally in front of Truebridge's desk.

"Professor, I..." He glanced back at his belongings. "I wanted to discuss career counseling with you, actually. I spoke with my Head of House, and he suggested I speak to you." He rocked on his heels.

Con_Stripes · 05-26-2009, 05:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Copernicus had nothing in his pockets aside from a small vial filled with silvery liquid, a worn copy of Pride and Prejudice, and his wand, all of which he set hesitantly into the tray. He NEEDED those things. With one last glance at the tray, he settled finally in front of Truebridge's desk.

"Professor, I..." He glanced back at his belongings. "I wanted to discuss career counseling with you, actually. I spoke with my Head of House, and he suggested I speak to you." He rocked on his heels.

Ethan glanced over at the items on the tray too, his eyes zeroing in on the vial and turning to offer Copernicus with a speculative look. He was on the level, but what was up with the vial?

"Career counseling." Ethan repeated, "Take a seat." He gestured at the available chairs. "How can I help?"

Cassirin · 05-26-2009, 07:22 PM

"I..." Copernicus sat down and then immediately had a case of blank-brain syndrome. What exactly was he asking for? Surely not special treatment. Perhaps just a course of study? Or... advice? "I'm considering a career in Wizarding Archaeology, to be frank. It's a good combination of history and ancient languages, which are two of my favorite subjects, plus I'm interested in the hands' on research side of things. Professor Vindictus suggested I begin looking into Wizarding universities, and also that I speak with specific professors for advice on best pursuing this career. And also suggestions for similar career fields." Because Vindictus obviously thought Copernicus was too pathetic to handle some dirt.

Con_Stripes · 05-26-2009, 10:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"I..." Copernicus sat down and then immediately had a case of blank-brain syndrome. What exactly was he asking for? Surely not special treatment. Perhaps just a course of study? Or... advice? "I'm considering a career in Wizarding Archaeology, to be frank. It's a good combination of history and ancient languages, which are two of my favorite subjects, plus I'm interested in the hands' on research side of things. Professor Vindictus suggested I begin looking into Wizarding universities, and also that I speak with specific professors for advice on best pursuing this career. And also suggestions for similar career fields." Because Vindictus obviously thought Copernicus was too pathetic to handle some dirt.

"Wizarding Archaeology." Ethan repeated. "That is admirable, Copernicus. I think you would do well in that field. You are one of my best students, though I worry that there won't be anyone to challenge you now that Tobias has graduated. I expect to see you work hard to get the number one spot this term." Even though Truebridge would prefer his top 5 students to all be Slytherin, he was fairly sure that wouldn't be the case.

"You would need to study, likely for several years but..." He paused and looked at Copernicus speculatively, "I know people, and an apprenticeship might be an option." Ethan tapped the desk thoughtfully.

"And as for other career fields, anything involving research would be beneficial, as would training as a cursebreaker, and even many muggle fields would be helpful." His eyes drifted over to the tray and the vial on the tray, a mixture of curiousity and paranoia.

Cassirin · 05-26-2009, 11:12 PM

Copernicus couldn't help but follow the Professor's gaze. "I received it in an owl and I haven't had time to find a pensieve to use, sir. It's... of a personal nature, but nothing untoward." Cope fidgeted in his seat, forcing his gaze back to the professor.

"Sir, I fully intend to get top honors in your class this term, regardless of Avalon's absence. If you could clarify for me, however, your position on furthering my education. Are you suggesting an apprenticeship might be preferable to attending university? Or perhaps some measure of both, working in the field summers until my schooling is complete?" Not to mention the whole internship thing would only work if he found someone to arrange it. His father would be entirely unamused when he found out Copernicus didn't intend to join the Ministry.

Con_Stripes · 05-26-2009, 11:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Copernicus couldn't help but follow the Professor's gaze. "I received it in an owl and I haven't had time to find a pensieve to use, sir. It's... of a personal nature, but nothing untoward." Cope fidgeted in his seat, forcing his gaze back to the professor.

"Sir, I fully intend to get top honors in your class this term, regardless of Avalon's absence. If you could clarify for me, however, your position on furthering my education. Are you suggesting an apprenticeship might be preferable to attending university? Or perhaps some measure of both, working in the field summers until my schooling is complete?" Not to mention the whole internship thing would only work if he found someone to arrange it. His father would be entirely unamused when he found out Copernicus didn't intend to join the Ministry.

Ethan made a musing sound. "You could... you may use mine." He trusted this kid after all.

"Good to hear it. I expect you to challenge yourself." He nodded.

"I believe an apprenticeship would be more suitable. Nothing like hands on experience to decide if it's really something you want or not." Ethan was speaking from experience with that one.

"There would be a measure of both of course, and even a year of field experience would help you get accepted into a more exclusive institution. You could treat it as a gap year, and from then on if it turns out to be something you want, you can either spend summers in the field or study part time... month on month off or similar. It would be quite flexible really, so long as you were dedicated."

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 12:11 AM

"And you would be willing to..." Copernicus studied his folded hands. "You said you knew someone who might be interested in an apprentice? My father..." He shrugged and glanced up, fixing Truebridge with a beseeching look. "My father set up an apprenticeship with someone in the Department of International Cooperation. He won't be willing to help me find someone."

He stared at his hands again. "And I'd be honored if you allowed me to use your pensieve. Thank you."

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 12:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"And you would be willing to..." Copernicus studied his folded hands. "You said you knew someone who might be interested in an apprentice? My father..." He shrugged and glanced up, fixing Truebridge with a beseeching look. "My father set up an apprenticeship with someone in the Department of International Cooperation. He won't be willing to help me find someone."

He stared at his hands again. "And I'd be honored if you allowed me to use your pensieve. Thank you."

"I know a lot of people and I'd be willing, if you show that you want it." Ethan told him. "And that means you need to work hard in all relevant subjects." He thought about it for a moment, "I see. Would you like me to write your father a letter? Perhaps... after seeing how you excel in certain subjects..?" Truebridge suggested.

"It's fine. I trust you." Ethan nodded, "Good practice anyhow."

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 01:00 AM

"Yes, sir. History of Magic, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Ancient Runes, and Transfiguration," Copernicus recited. "Those are the classes Professor Vindictus suggested I attempt to excel in." He was sure that he could do well in those classes, based on his scores last year and his OWL results.

"I can speak to my father myself, sir, but I appreciate the offer. He'll take it well enough if my mind is already set and my course is laid out before me. He does so like a plan that comes together."

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 01:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"Yes, sir. History of Magic, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Ancient Runes, and Transfiguration," Copernicus recited. "Those are the classes Professor Vindictus suggested I attempt to excel in." He was sure that he could do well in those classes, based on his scores last year and his OWL results.

"I can speak to my father myself, sir, but I appreciate the offer. He'll take it well enough if my mind is already set and my course is laid out before me. He does so like a plan that comes together."

"Working out in the field will also require familiarity with Magical and Mundane plants, creatures and quite often, when trying to put a date on an event or a relic or what have you, being able to create decent starcharts will be a very useful skill."

Truebridge stood up and went to the cabinet, pulling out a pensieve basin and placing it on the desk. "I'll look into an apprenticeship for you." He tapped the basin. "You are welcome to use this when you are ready."

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 04:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NicoT

"Working out in the field will also require familiarity with Magical and Mundane plants, creatures and quite often, when trying to put a date on an event or a relic or what have you, being able to create decent starcharts will be a very useful skill."

Truebridge stood up and went to the cabinet, pulling out a pensieve basin and placing it on the desk. "I'll look into an apprenticeship for you." He tapped the basin. "You are welcome to use this when you are ready."

Copernicus obediently retrieved the vial from Truebridge's tray and poured it into the pensieve sitting on the desk. "So you're telling me I have to do well in every class Hogwarts offers, including picking up Astronomy again as an elective?" He was amused by that. Granted, Cope was never going to attend a class he didn't put full effort into, but it was funny to consider that he HAD to do well in every single class to earn this apprenticeship.

Figures rose from the bowl on the desk and Copernicus went silent as he watched a small scene play out in front of them. It didn't really bother him that Truebridge was there. It was unlikely a professor would leave him alone with something as rare as a pensieve, and he'd been resigned to SOMEONE knowing his business. Might as well be the his favorite professor.

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 04:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Copernicus obediently retrieved the vial from Truebridge's tray and poured it into the pensieve sitting on the desk. "So you're telling me I have to do well in every class Hogwarts offers, including picking up Astronomy again as an elective?" He was amused by that. Granted, Cope was never going to attend a class he didn't put full effort into, but it was funny to consider that he HAD to do well in every single class to earn this apprenticeship.

Figures rose from the bowl on the desk and Copernicus went silent as he watched a small scene play out in front of them. It didn't really bother him that Truebridge was there. It was unlikely a professor would leave him alone with something as rare as a pensieve, and he'd been resigned to SOMEONE knowing his business. Might as well be the his favorite professor.

"Not necessarily. If you feel you are already up to scratch or if you prefer to study the extra subjects in your own time that would be fine. Besides, I did not mention Arithmancy, Muggle Studies or Divination, or those topics that you would need to study once you leave here." He pointed out, turning his head to eye the certificates proclaiming he'd received 12 OWLs and 9 NEWTs as well as a myriad other qualifications. As far as Ethan was concerned, the more subjects the better. Even specialising involved more than just the basics.

He ignored Copernicus and the pensieve, choosing to walk over to the tray and flick through the battered copy of pride and prejudice that the Ravenclaw had placed there.

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 09:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NicoT

"Not necessarily. If you feel you are already up to scratch or if you prefer to study the extra subjects in your own time that would be fine. Besides, I did not mention Arithmancy, Muggle Studies or Divination, or those topics that you would need to study once you leave here." He pointed out, turning his head to eye the certificates proclaiming he'd received 12 OWLs and 9 NEWTs as well as a myriad other qualifications. As far as Ethan was concerned, the more subjects the better. Even specialising involved more than just the basics.

He ignored Copernicus and the pensieve, choosing to walk over to the tray and flick through the battered copy of pride and prejudice that the Ravenclaw had placed there.

"No, sir. Just reflecting," Copernicus said quietly. Point taken. He needed to do better this term or he wouldn't measure up to Truebridge's insanely high standards. He crossed his arms and leaned forward to watch the scene in the pensieve unfold. Slowly his head sank down into his hands, and he tugged his hair and buried his face there.

The memory ended and the figures disappeared back into the pensieve, but Copernicus didn't move for several long minutes. "Thank you, professor. If you think of anything else I can do, I'm happy to stop in again." He collected his memory and rose, shoulders slumped and eyes on the floor.

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"No, sir. Just reflecting," Copernicus said quietly. Point taken. He needed to do better this term or he wouldn't measure up to Truebridge's insanely high standards. He crossed his arms and leaned forward to watch the scene in the pensieve unfold. Slowly his head sank down into his hands, and he tugged his hair and buried his face there.

The memory ended and the figures disappeared back into the pensieve, but Copernicus didn't move for several long minutes. "Thank you, professor. If you think of anything else I can do, I'm happy to stop in again." He collected his memory and rose, shoulders slumped and eyes on the floor.

"Copernicus? I think you can do whatever you set your mind to, but I'd like to point out that it is just as important to put your heart to it if there is something you really want." Truebridge solemnly handed him the book that he'd been flicking through, Pride and Prejudice. "If you think of anything else I can do, feel free to stop in again."

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 10:03 PM

"I don't think you can help me figure out how to uncomplicate things that I've royally mucked up, sir," Copernicus said, raising his eyebrows in a self-deprecating expression. "How do you do the right thing when all the choices hurt someone?" He didn't really expect an answer.

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 10:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"I don't think you can help me figure out how to uncomplicate things that I've royally mucked up, sir," Copernicus said, raising his eyebrows in a self-deprecating expression. "How do you do the right thing when all the choices hurt someone?" He didn't really expect an answer.

Ethan thought about the question, moving to perch on his desk again.
"I think... if you are going to hurt others anyway, the best thing you can hope for is to do the right thing for yourself and hope that the rest will fall into place. If you aren't happy, then the people who care about you will be unhappy. It's a cycle. Furthermore, when you are unhappy," And the young man clearly was, "it effects your ability to think clearly and be the best person you can be." Maybe it was a Slytherin angle to want to take care of number one first, but Ethan believed it. How could you make someone else happy- anyone at all- unless you were happy yourself?

... unless their happiness depended on you being unhappy in the first place, he supposed.

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 10:17 PM

"And if your happiness depends on theirs entirely?" He shrugged. "I'll think about the things you've said, Professor. All of them. I believe I've monopolized your attention for far too long. I'll see you in class?" Copernicus nodded and waited for dismissal.

Con_Stripes · 05-27-2009, 10:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

"And if your happiness depends on theirs entirely?" He shrugged. "I'll think about the things you've said, Professor. All of them. I believe I've monopolized your attention for far too long. I'll see you in class?" Copernicus nodded and waited for dismissal.

"How would you know that unless you'd tried to make yourself happy first? It doesn't sound to me like that has been a focus for you, Copernicus. Try thinking about it, if the happiness of others was not an issue, what things would make you happy? What would you need to do to achieve those things?"

Ethan nodded. "You may return whenever you like, Copernicus. I will indeed see you in class. Front and Centre I hope."

Cassirin · 05-27-2009, 10:22 PM

"Of course," he quirked a crooked smile before slipping from the office. Copernicus had a LOT to think about.

Liisa · 05-28-2009, 11:51 PM

Professor Morgan sat at her desk with her fingers laced together and her chin resting on her hands. She let out a long sigh as something on her desk caught her eye (for what seemed like the twentieth time that day). Pulling it towards her, she began absentmindedly playing with the little ribbon she'd tied on top. Standing up from her chair with a determined look on her face, Iliana pulled on her robes and headed out her door. The 'something' now in her tightly fisted hand.

In long, graceful strides, Iliana made her way up to the castle and through the heavy doors. Once on the first floor, she quickened her pace and headed straight for the professor's office. She waved as she passed the small handful of students sitting in the waiting area. She had no intention of waiting.

After setting the gift outside Ethan's door, Iliana placed a tiny note on top before heading back the way she came.

The note read:

Quote:

For my favorite nameless puppy. ♥

Mrs. Weasley · 05-29-2009, 05:13 PM

The closer Abby gets to Truebridge's door; the faster her heart beats rushing blood to her cheeks. She casually touches her face. Great I'm blushing. Now I'm going to look like one of Professor Truebridge's many fan girls. Maybe that's not such a bad idea after all. Abby puts he hand on the door knob when she notices a raw hide bone with a cute doggie bow on it. Trubridge has a dog? Professor Morgan must have left this. I hope Professor Truebridge has a dog. I'd hate to think she brought for the professor. Morgan was pretty friendly with Truebridge last term with the drageon. Boy, he really collects the fan girls. Even the professors aren"t imune to his many charms. Abby opens the door and walks in. "I think this is for you?"

*PhoenixRising* · 06-02-2009, 04:34 PM

To be honest, Dominic wasn't really sure what he had come to see Truebridge about. It wasn't that he needed assistance with his academic troubles, but if he did, then surely Shackleton should have been primary person to seek for guidance. Speaking of Shackleton, he should probably speak with her on the front of career choices - something he should have done before taking his OWL exams so he knew what to strive for success in. But instead, he didn't narrow his subject list AT ALL and ended up with almost perfect OWL results. And by almost perfect, he passed eleven of the twelve, but did not get outstandings in all of them.

So brings the sixth year back to the ultimate question: Why was he here, just over the threshold of one of his favorite professor's offices?

Drama. That had to be it; Ethan Truebridge was, after all, a man of the dramatic arts. And with all that was going on in the life of Dominic Denton - the wooing of the best friend, the kiss from Evolette McKenna, the jealous feelings, the confusion, the speechlessness - yes, Dominic was indeed very confused. As was his life filled to the brim with drama.

So much drama that he did not even notice the raw hide bone with the note on it that Abby had noticed and picked up for the History professor. Sighing, he managed to both lazily and casually lean against the back wall, shades dropping over his eyes [from the top of his head] as he waited to figure out his next move.

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