Lalalala new term! This was going to be a lovely, wonderful, WARM new term full of NO strange accidents or weird weather or odd curses on the castle. Mmm. She couldn't WAIT to give her speech to start this term off right. Annie practically glided to her seat in her gorgeous white gown and pink shoes. She settled herself in with a light smile and poured a glass of crystal clear water.

Just look at this hall, all nice and empty of students. For now. And for once, she had a full staff, too! HOW WONNNNNNNDERFUL. Yes. This would be a good term. She could feel it.

Eeeeep!!! It was time for term again and Cassie was just soooo excited. She had been in her classroom getting things all ready and her and Nessa had went to get their mani/pedi to celebrate the term starting. Making her way in she realized she was super early, but she was just too excited not to be. Seeing all the staff and all the students again was just fabtastic!

"Annnie, helllllo" She beamed as she made her way to the table and sat down in her seat. "I hope you had a wonderful holiday." She certainly had a great summer shopping and visiting.


Turning her eyes down the empty table she knew Nessa would be along soon and so would the others. Playing with her necklace her thoughts went to some of the interactions she had this summer and the conversation her and Nessa had. Grinning to herself she sat waiting for the others.

It had been quite the summer once again, but perhaps what had really made the astronomer's vacation was the fact that the Royal Households of the United Kingdom had not striped him of his Astronomer Royal title despite, well, despite the circumstances of the previous term. So after surviving the basilisk in Greece and a few other small hiccups here and there, it had been meetings and theory approval for the man.

Of course, there were other highlights to his summer adventures. Naturally. One piece of news that currently had the man, while perfectly dressed for the part in a NEW suit, all sweaty palmed and stumbling towards his seat with a pink box in his hands. It was exactly what it looked like - an old Chinese take-out box. Cleaned and sterilized, of course, but not even the festive color could hide that it was what it was. The Headmistress enjoyed take-out Chinese food, right?

Errr...

"Evening, Cassiopeia," he greeted with an anxious nod as he passed the Divination professor. He continued his way down the table until he arrived in front of the Headmistress and, after clearing his throat and tugging on the collar of his shirt, Airey finally greeted her. "GOOOO-- oooooooooood evening, Headmistress," he obnoxiously beamed at the woman. "I read that it is the appropriate thing to do to gift someone something when you wish to show appreciation for something they have done for you," he explained as he plopped the pink take-out box in front of it. It still vaguely smelled of pork chow mein, by the way. "Since you saw it right to bestow me with the honor of Gryffindor Head of House, I wanted you to have this." The only other perso he had ever gifted something to had been Medea, and maybe Calista. Those instances had been for birthdays or to apologize for something utterly ridiculous he had done. So you, Headmistress Truebridge, were perhaps the first to receive a THANK YOU gift.

Time to give yourself a pat on the back in celebration.

"I hope you find it useful."

Walking into the Great Hall through the double doors, earlier than usual for once Leo headed for the dais slowly noting that Annie was already present as well as Airey and Cassiopeia. Tugging at his shirt to loosen the tie he had on just a fraction Leo made his way past the Ravenclaw table. Everything looked to be in order there and soon enough the new prefects Jun and Jasmine would arrive to oversee things and he knew Helena would make an appearance there too. It was going to be a good night he could feel it in the air.

Getting up onto the dais some moments later Leo gave Airey a warm grin "Congratulations to the appointment Airey. I'm sure the lions will be ecstatic when they hear the news." They had never really bonded like he did with Cossy or Piers and Javy because of Leo's feeling that Airey was always out to make fun of him in some way or other. And that made him uncomfortable.

Turning to Cassie he flashed her a warm smile. "Good evening Cassiopeia. You look beautiful tonight." Yes that she did. Leo was though still trying to figure out why she had acted so odd when they had bumped into each other in Diagon Alley during the holidays. He still wondered if he had done or said something wrong to her. Women were clearly mysterious except for maybe Sophia who he understood without trying. Passing in front of the headmistress seat Leo flashed Annie a warm smile. "Hello headmistress! I hope you had a wonderful summer vacation."

Passing several chairs before he found his own Leo sat down in it.

A bit disappointed that she was still as pale as ever after their more than adventurous time in warm and sunny Greece, which was nothing new, the excitement of a new term started to seep in as she made her way up to the staff table. For once, completely on time, thanks to a new little invention of hers. And thank Merlin it wasn't still following her. A few gears needed to be tweaked...apparently.

Giving a wiggling finger wave to Leo, Medea smiled towards the man before scooting around towards her seat. "Hello, Cassiopeia. Headmistress." she greeted happily as she took her set, gaze traveling from the Divination professor to the Astronomy professor in front of Annie. Oh...!

She was not expecting the eye liner. That didn't stop her from gesturing around her own eyes and giving him a thumbs up though.

Arriving as prompt as ever was Javier as he walked through the doors into the Great Hall. It was good to be back now that the surrounding castle was more habitable again. He smiled warmly at Leo who he saw just as he was making his way to his seat. Javy took his hand to shake before turning it into a quick hug, "Good to see you again Leo," Patting his back a few times before releasing. "I trust the rest of your summer went well?" If he remembered what he was implying with that.

"Good evening Annie. You're looking quite an extravagant tonight." Which came with the territory. "Hello Cassie. Medea." Javy nodded at each before sitting. "How was your summer?" Turning to his right he was always expected to see Airey in a new type of suit. It looks like he was going for his house of pride in the choices of colour. "Now that's a splendid outfit, Star Man." And of course, "A hearty congratulations on your new position as Head." Clapping Airey's back a little hard unintentionally as he was quite happy for his friend.

Now there was just the other chairs left to be filled.

New term which more than likely would present a new way to die. The joy.. Sophia had seen Ariana off at the harbour and she had boarded the Durmstrang ship,which she waited to see disappear over the horizon. For the first time ever though the woman was just a little tiny bit worried about her child setting off to the north after what happened last term but she was confident her daughter was in good hands.

Well her co-workers had arrived..some at least. She stepped up unto the dias, said a general good evening and took the seat next to Leobald.

Botros had to take only one stop at the Slytherin table on his way from the double doors to his seat on the dais. He got there with his usual broad smile on his face, and climbed the few steps with little help from his cane. "Good evening everyone." He greeted happily, his voice must travel easily now that the hall was empty. Gratefully, his seat was right here next to those steps, he sat himself down and waited until his neighbor Airey was looking his way, "Congratulations," Son. "I can see you're chuffed with your new position." Heh heh heh.

Grabbing his goblet Leo poured himself some pumpkin juice to quench his thirst with as Medea made her entrance on the dais. Raising his left hand Leo waved and smiled happily in Medea’s direction before he focused on his juice.



Leo had only managed to drink a few mouthfuls of juice when Javier appeared on the dais. Standing up he returned the quick hug with a smile in greeting. "It's good to see you too Javy." The subtle hint made Leo's eyes travel briefly to Cassie before they were on Javy again as he responded. "No Millie news to report but I have Cassie news to share. I just don’t know what to make of it. Any chance your free tomorrow morning for a chat in the stables or somewhere?" So he could pick another man’s brain about the mysteries of women.



Leo had slipped down in his seat and had quenched most of his thirst by the time his best friend made her presence known on the dais. Leaning over to give her hug since she had taken residence in Josephina's seat Leo beamed warmly. "Good evening my darling Sophia. You look lovely as always."

"Did Ariana get to school okay?" He wondered quietly. He didn’t ask why Sophia had seated herself in Josephina’s seat. It would be revealed eventually.



Leo watched with fondness how Abraham made his way from the double doors and up to his seat on the dais. Waving and flashing the senior man a big smile Leo called down. "Good evening Abraham and congratulations to your deputy headmaster appointment."

After finishing up setting up and cleaning his classroom and office, Piers finally made his way to the Great Hall. He walked up to the staff table, first giving a nod to the oldest member (in age) and newly promoted Deputy Headmaster. "Well, hello there, Deputy. Congrats on the promotion." He clapped the old man on the shoulder (not TOO hard though, because he didn't want to break him or something). Promoted to Deputy Headmaster but he still had to sit on the end. Poor bloke.

He continued on his way to his seat by resting a hand on Javy's shoulder. Then he plopped into his chair beside him and moved that hand forward to wave at Leo down at the end of the table. "Evening, Leo." He'd have to catch up with Leo's love news after the feast.

Sophia took Leo's hug but petted him awkwardly on the back and straightened up in her seat ahem. She lowered her voice to address her bestfriend. "No hugging at work Leobald." She didn't hug students and she certainly didn't hug staff. Professional setting and all. She got that. "Anyways, thank you Leo. I see you still have a bit of tan from our getaway."AKA her dragging him to her family reunion. That was a good day. It was 'fun'. "You're looking quite healthy and not at all vampire like" That was a palm tree shade for resident vamipre, one Medea Romanos.

The transfiguration professor checked her watch."They should have arrived by now yes, which means I should receive an owl later. I'll let you know if she sends her love." Water sip.

Josephina had THOUGHT she was on-time or even early, but it seemed her colleagues had thought better and arrived an extra few minutes before herself even. Well they weren't toting around a one year old in addition to getting themselves ready. Amazingly enough though, she still managed to get to the Great Hall on time, with minutes to spare before the students would arrive.

Walking up the dais on her former seat's side, she smiled warmly when she passed Botros first, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Congratulations on Deputy, Abraham." And no, no kisses this time. Her lips were reserved for her little man in her baby carrier, these days. "And congratulations on Head of House, Airey," she offered him a smile as well. He was looking quite decked out in house spirit; if there was any doubt as to his house loyalty, just observe the attire.

She continued making her way behind the chairs of her colleagues, smiling patting them each gently on the shoulder ... Javy and Piers, Medea, and Cassie and Annie (of course) and approached her seat...

.... only to find someone already in her seat. "Leo," she smiled politely at the librarian before turning to address the seat-stealer. "Sophia. So good to see you again." She smiled politely, her hand on Septimus' back still. "Have you forgotten though, once again, that you teach Transfiguration. Your chair is at the end." Ahem. Yes, she would like to sit in her seat, because toting a fifteen pound infant on her hip in heels was no easy feat. And yes, she did remember Sophia sitting in the wrong seat once before.

Oh, excellent. The kids weren't here yet. Good. Walking into a room full of youths as the new staffer would have been completely horrific.

Archibald rubbed his cheek right after peeking through the door of the Great Hall, as he had developed a barely noticeable stress zit in the past few hours, but it was still embarrassing on his first day. Deciding to take the plunge, Archie placed his hands rigidly by his side as he strode down the loooooong hall, with his bumbag making a really irritating rattling noise as he did so. What a stupid idea it was to bring that thing along.

Ah, the headmistress. He would talk to her first. And apparently, only her, for now. "Hi there." He bent forwards a bit, and then back, and then he crossed his legs as if he needed to pee or something. But he didn't. "Umm..." Archie tapped his chin and raised an eyebrow at the seats before pointing at a few of the empty ones. "Can I just... sit anywhere... or.....?" Aaaaand he trailed off. Didn't want to sit in someone's claimed seat, of course.

Finally, he gave a general raised hand-wave, and then a pathetic smile to each of the present staff members, who were all quite... tall, he noticed. "Oh, hello. Archie." He pointed to himself. Yes, obviously. Archie's eyes went particularly wide as he stopped at the man wearing the red suit. A bit much, wasn't it? Or was he the joker of the gang? Were the Hogwartz staff those kind of people?

Who would Archie be? Mister Under-dressed?

Sophia turned ever so slightly to look up at the woman hovering over her. She did often wonder about these professors. Clearly she was sitting in her seat for a reason. Unlike the rest of them she did not enjoy talking over people and right now she wanted to talk to Leo. Obviously.

"I have not forgotten, I have never forgotten and I don't sit in a different seat on a whim Josephina." If she was going to be rude after issuing pleasantries then she perhaps should have kept them to herself. "I'm talking to my friend, there are no thorns in my chair you can always sit there until I'm done or you can continue standing. Whichever floats your boat." Really did people have to be that difficult? The students weren't even in yet. "I won't be long."

As she sat playing with her Libra necklace, her green eyes turned to her purse to check on Aires and Gemini. They seemed to be still snoozing since she couldn’t see their little heads. Remembering Airey’s issue with them she scooted her purse under the table so it wouldn’t be an issue this feast.

Speaking of Airey she gave the man a wide beam. “Ooooh hello there Airey. You are looking quite sharp today.” He seemed very happy as well. Great way to start off the new term. “I hear congrats are in order.” It was soooo exciting to think of being a head of house. Leading a house that you use to be a part of. Ooooh how fun that would be, she snapped excitedly for him.

Her snaps stopped as she saw Leo and her grin grew as a blush ran over her cheeks. “Oh Leo you are always just too kind.” Not that she minded being called beautiful, but he was sooo sweet to do so. She did catch the Cassiopeia instead of just Cassie, why was he being so formal she wondered. Getting up from her chair she gave him just a quick hug, no getting his significant other a reason to get upset with her. No she’d not want to cause him and Sophia any trouble. “So glad to be back, aren’t you?” Though she knew he was since they had just had a conversation about it near the fountain. Snapping a bit she leaned closer, “I have something new since the last time I saw you.” She pointed at her foot, through the black shoe the indigo, black, and pink design showed through just a bit. “Nessa and I got half butterflies so if our feet are close it’s a hole. It’s it just adorbs!”

Everyone just seemed to be in super formal mode as she heard her full name again and looked to see Medea, “Hello Medea, how are you? I hope you had just a lovely summer. Did the field trip go alright?” She wasn’t one for the outdoors, but maybe one of these terms she’d try to go. Help out and such.

“Javy, hello, I was just looking for you the other day. Did Piersy tell you?” She had really been wanting to speak with him about something, but now she decided against it. Not finding him was a sign that she wasn’t going to take lightly. “I hope you had a fabulous summer.” It was just so great seeing everyone again. She snapped again with excitement until her eyes saw Sophia, going and sitting next to Leo. Well she wasn’t surprised, her words this summer, he is taken care of came back to her, why hadn’t she seen before that the two had to be a couple. Her thoughts on whether or not Sophia was married or if she must be separated and with Leo, yes that made such perfect sense. Giving her a beamy wave down the table, she decided again going to speak with her. Let the couple have their time before the students came.

Her eyes turning and seeing Abraham coming to the table she gave another beamy wave. “Helllllo Ab, how are you doing?” Wonderful she at least hoped. “Congrats to your new title.” Such big things for so many staff members. She was sooo happy for all of them. It was just soooo exciting! She snapped happily again. “Hello Piersy, how are you doing today?” She greeted the charms professor as he walked in.

Feeling a hand on her she turned her green eyes to see Fina, “Hello Fina, how are you? How’s the little one?” She just loved to ask about others children. They were just so fun and such cute stories. Her thoughts got distracted as she saw another person (Archie) come in, one she didn’t know. Oooooh the new staff member. Getting up she went over to him. Now was he grounds or herbology. “Hellloo there. I’m Cassiopeia, but just call me Cassie.” Walking closer to him she realized that if she took off her high heels she’d be about his height. Did he say his name was Archie, “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Wasn’t this just going to be such a fabtastic year, she thought so!

Goodness she felt out of the loop. It had really only been one term that she'd been away, but it felt like an eternity. So much had changed in Tiara Tyner's life, even her name! Although, it hardly changed at all! A dazzling wedding ring now glinted upon the fourth finger of her left hand. Her body no longer appeared to belong to a 140-year-old, though it had taken much longer to get back to normal than anyone else's had. She had spent months on a honeymoon abroad and was all the more refreshed for it. Plus, she was not only returning as a married woman, but as a House leader along with Mr. Kitridge!

However, as she entered the hall, she noticed there were several faces that she did not recognize. Airey was, of course, hard to miss. But what of the new person in Seren's seat? Did Bentley retire?! Surely not..? As long as Abraham was still here she would survive. That man made her heart grow warm inside.

Stepping briskly onto the raised dais, she nodded to several of her former-turned-current colleagues before taking her seat beside Anastasia. That is, she assumed it was still her seat. "Good evening, Headmistress. It's good to be back in this place. Good holiday?"

Summner could not be over already. Healer Murdoch was not ready to be away from her husband so soon. They had just returned from their honeymoon a few days ago and now here she was, back at Hogwarts and he was off to shoot another wildlife film on location somewhere in Africa. Sure, things had been like this with them for the past four years, but now, well now they were married and she just wasn't ready to give up her time with her husband. Yeah, she would never get tired of the sound of that. Her husband.

Playing with the rings on her finger she made her way to the staff table and sat in her usual seat. It looked as if almost all the staff were there already minus a few from her end of the table. Of course there was once again a new groundskeeper sitting to her right. "Hello." Short man. This sure was a nice change. Not having that giant of a groundskeeper invading her space anymore. Too bad it wasn't her husband sitting next to her again. Now that's one groundskeeper she would happily let invade her space. But alas, he was off in Africa.

And then there was Professor Flamsteed standing with the headmistress. "Good evening Airey. Congratulations again on becoming the new head of house for those lions. Too bad your first year as head of house will be tarnished with your lions losing that house cup they stole from my snakes last term."

Yeah, it was safe to say Cece was not going to let her snakes be cheated out of that cup again this term.

Usually at this time of year, Andrew would have nothing much to do but this time was of course different. He was quite curious about this new job he had gotten, excitement would be an exaggeration, or maybe he was but certainly not like how other people felt excited. His way was far more composed. But returning to his old school was something enjoyable which was a bit surprising. He did not expect it to be that pleasant but it was. Which was very good news. The familiarity of the castle brought all sort of memories but he didn’t linger around wasting time by feeling nostalgic. He was a practical man.

He made his way towards the Great Hall finding that his feet were moving automatically without waiting for directions.

It was mostly empty of course except for the other professors, who were his colleagues now. With a hand in his pocket and the other by his side, Andrew walked towards the staff table in something of a quick pace.

His eyes did a quick scan of the faces. He noticed first the Headmistress since he'd seen her recently, he nodded politely at her. Did they need to exchange pleasantries? He'd find out soon enough. Next he noticed someone whom he hadn't seen for a while. Flamsteed. Recognition lit in Andrew's eyes and a lot of other things, they had a bit of history, he and Airy did. Another familiar face was Piers's, the herbologist offered a sincere smile towards the charms man.

"Andrew Walton, hope you all had a good summer," he announced himself before occupying his seat.

Leo let Sophia's small reprimand slide. There were no student’s present and thus he was going to hug his close friends when he met them. It was just how he did things. Touching his right tanned cheek slightly Leo nodded with a smile. "I feel quite healthy too. I'm glad you made me go on the trip even if I wasn’t super excited at first," It had done his body and mind a world of good and he had Sophia and her family to thank for that. "The trip actually made me relax more then I would have done if I had visited my parent’s summer house."

Moving to refill his goblet with more juice Leo asked "Do you want some juice or water while we wait for the food to arrive?"



Catching Piers's wave across the table Leo returned it. "Evening, Piers." He’d catch up with the charms man after the feast or if that didn’t work later in the first week back.



Uh oh. Leo couldn't help but think when Josephina arrived to find her seat taken already. "Good evening Fina and little Septimus isn't it right?" Leo said quietly with a blink to the boy in Fina’s arms. He was going to let the two women work the trouble of seating arrangements out by themselves. He was there though if things got out of hand. Hopefully Sophia and Fina wouldn’t start arguing.



One of the newest additions to the staff made his way up on the dais. When he claimed the groundskeepers seat Leo couldn’t help but make note of the contrast to the former keeper Orsinso. Orsino had been big and burly and tall. This man was anything but. Waving friendlily all the same Leo said "Good evening, Archibald right? I'm Leobald Kitridge, school librarian." It couldn’t hurt to be nice.



Smiling Leo confirmed. "Yes I'm glad to be back. It will be fun to see my eagles tonight after the feast." He had something extra in store for them which he hoped they’d enjoy. Dropping his gaze to check out the new shoes Leo couldn’t help but shudder just a little. "They’re pretty Cassie! I still don’t get how you can walk in heels without hurting yourself though." It was another one of those mysteries that surrounded the female population he supposed. "Glad to be back?" he wondered. Why were they repeating themselves? They had talked about this by the fountain in Diagon Alley.



The next woman to enter the dais got a big beam from Leo. "Welcome back Tiara!" he chimed with a wave. He'd see the flying instructor after the feast when they met up in the Ravenclaw common room to welcome the eagles to school.



Cece arrived just a few minutes after Tiara. Gazing flickering over in her direction Leo said. "Good evening Cece. Thanks again for healing me after the chort attack last term. I’m now fully recovered." And ready to take on the new year and its challenges. Could they get a nice and quiet year? No blizzards or chort attacks.



The man who slipped into what used to be Seren's seat caused Leo to pause. He looked familiar. But he couldn't exactly place the man. "Good evening Andrew. Did we perhaps go to Hogwarts together at the same time?" Pausing he remembered his poor manners. "I'm Leobald Kitridge by the way, school librarian," and Ravenclaw Head of House but it seemed like too much to add not that that wasn’t important.

As more of his fellow colleagues stepped in through the doors, he nodded curtly at Sophia as she made her way to sit right next to Leo.. Mmhm. His eyes then averted toward Botros whose clear voice he then heard. "Good evening Abraham," Javier returned his greeting with a genuine smile, "A major congratulations are in order for your new appointment." Deputy Botros.. had a nice ring to it, didn't it?


Excellent. Javy was mighty appreciative of him being able to pick up on what he was implying. Hm..nothing from Millie.. That was a little sad to hear. His face turned a little equivocal at the mention of Cassie news. "Hm?" Did they have a little run in or something. He was quite curious now on this. "Of course. We'll catch up then." It sounded quite dire with his tone of voice.


..And there was Piersie, Javy didn't pay attention to him just yet until he felt his hand rest on his left shoulder. He didn't need to look up to realise just whose it was. Instead his no longer naked right hand rested over his to pat and squeeze a little before letting go. "Hey.. everything all set?" He knew of the arrangement that needed to be settled beforehand.

Not too long after he felt another hand on his shoulder, this time he looked up to smile, "Evening Josephina. Have a good holiday?" Who wasn't alone. Javy gave her little boy a finger waggling wave, before nudging Piers so he could have a look at the sight. Babies were adorable.

Another one arrived. It was a man, who looked a little anxious. It had to be the new Groundskeeper. Javier gave him a curt nod in return to his wave. "Hello and welcome Archie. I'm Javier, though Javy will do just fine." Smiling a little at him.


And low and behold who arrived right after. The happily snapping Cassie. Given the mention that Leo said of news relating to he watched as she went over to him first.. His blue eyes squinted a little. Did she just..? The corner of one of his lips curved a little upward. He cleared his throat to remain his straight face. "Hello there Cassie." It was best to not finish off his thoughts just yet, especially once she greeted him. "Oh?" She had been searching for him. He glanced at Piersie at the question before looking back at her. "I'm afraid not.. So what is it?"

Just passing by was Tiara. It was pleasant to see her return as he nodded back at her, "Welcome back Tiara." Before then nodding at Cece's arrival and... hm? Another nudge toward Piers as another man, Andrew, arrived. "Your old Snake buddy is here." Of course Javy didn't personally know him.. yet. He returned the new Herbologist a curt nod before he had seated himself.

Fashionably late, emphasis on the fashion.

That's what Lolita Domingo was. Though really, no one had told her when this shindig started. She hadn't been here for this feast last year, but none of her colleagues seemed to remember that. They just had to deal with the lack of her presence for a few minutes.

Adorned in bright orange dress robes, she flounced into the hall, nodding to a few students along the way. She had been pleased to see Miss Guidry get a badge and was not surprised at the choice for Head Girl. Finally she sauntered onto the platform and took her seat near the end of the table. "Evening, gentlemen," she said to her dinner companions. "Congratulations on the new positions, both of you."

It was Nessa's absolute favorite time of year! She had always enjoyed the start of a new term as a student and now as a professor - for her second term, eep! - it was just as exciting except in a different way. Or maybe a similar way. All she knew was that she was excited. As she stepped into the Great hall before the feast was to begin, she noticed that the table was nearly full. Ooooh, was she late? Well, the students weren't here yet, so technically she wasn't and she did love to make an entrance, so all was good.

She supposed she could blame her timing on finding the perfect feast dress. She had thought about going with her traditional Indigo signature color, but soon settled on a floor length orange gown. It was stunning and she knew it would make her stand out. "Hello, everyone!" Nessa simply beamed at the entire table as she approached. So exciting to all be back!! And there were some new faces too. She was eager to get to know them.

Giving cheerful waves to everyone on the other side of the table, she turned her brown eyes at her end. "Hi Cassie!" she sang out, spotting her BFF near her seat and talking to Leo. She was about to give her a wink when she noticed that Sophia was sitting right next to him.. in Josephina's seat. That was.. interesting. She settled for giving the blonde a knowing look instead as she dropped into her own seat. Perhaps their theories were correct after all. "Hello, hello.." she said brightly to those sitting - or standing in Fina's case - Josephina, Leo, and Sophia. "I hope you all had a wonderful summer!" Of course, she had spoken to Leo a bit about it when she bumped into him a few weeks ago, but she was going for pleasant conversation all the same. Oh and how so very sweet! "This must be your baby," Nessa beamed at the little boy Fina was holding. Really, even more reason for her to sit down. "How precious! And how wonderful for you to let him visit with us today." Or was he here to stay? The brunette loved little ones and she kept smiling at him until she realized she should probably make adult conversation as well.

Aww, and look! the new Herbology professor was already seated next to her. "Hello," she smiled widely at the man. "I'm Nessa Glendower, History of Magic professor.. You must be our new Herbology teacher." It was a shame that she hadn't run into him earlier when she stopped by to work in her office. She was still beaming when a flash of light just past him caught her eye. Was that.. ? "Oh my Merlin!" she suddenly exclaimed as her eyes locked onto the Healer's sparkly rings as she leaned towards her a bit. "Cecelia! You got married?!" How exciting!! And she would totes have to introduce herself to the new Groundskeeper on Cece's other side as well.. but she was far too preoccupied with this exciting news! She loved romance!

Now that he thought about it, he probably would be able to find familiar faces among his new colleagues. Since most of them looked around his age, of course that is if they had been to Hogwarts. Though it wasn't like Andrew was the social butterfly back then. Only two he knew well from Back then Was Peirs because they were housemates and the guy was decent and worth spending time with and the other was Flamsteed who was a different story. However, for now Andrew decided to pay attention to names and conversations in order to pick up names and info. He so far managed to learn that the old man was the deputy. And Airey head of house? He was now too far to say congratulations.


His head turned when he heard someone say his name, a man to his left. "Good evening to you, too," He politely greeted the man whose face did look familiar in some way. Like he was sure he didn't see him recently but like ... perhaps the younger version of this man's face, the man whose name turned out to be Leobald. He'd definitely heard that name.

"I do believe that is very possible," he said feeling more certain now that Mr.Kitridge had the same thought. "I was class of 2069." That gotta help, no? Anyway, it was pleasure meeting the man which he probably needed to express. "Pleasure meeting you," He extended his hand to the librarian since they were close to each other and ll.


His eyes naturally lingered on Peirs on account of him being a familiar face, so he caught the nod that came from the man right next to him. He wasn't certain if he'd seen him before, probably not but he made a mental note to ask Fuller to introduce the two. He'd be needing to know everyone and all.

He was starting to wonder to whom the chair right to his left belonged to. He'd already found out that the woman to his right was the Snake's head of house which made him wonder if he knew her but he wouldn't be able without the name, and she was getting a lot of congratulations, too. But then he finally got to know.

She seemed to be a friendly woman so deserved his faint smile that was only reserved for occasions. He thought the first words were totally worth it. First impression and all. "Pleasure meeting you," He said offering his hand to shake because they were like right next to each other. "Have you been teaching her for long?" He.... was striking up a conversation. His girlfriend's pointers were being taken into consideration.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bazinga

"Annnie, helllllo" She beamed as she made her way to the table and sat down in her seat. "I hope you had a wonderful holiday." She certainly had a great summer shopping and visiting.

"Cassie, I like your dress," Annie greeted the newer professor brightly. "Thank you; I hope you enjoyed your break as well." Once it had started, of course, with the chorts gone and all that. She took a small sip of water...

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie

"GOOOO-- oooooooooood evening, Headmistress," he obnoxiously beamed at the woman. "I read that it is the appropriate thing to do to gift someone something when you wish to show appreciation for something they have done for you," he explained as he plopped the pink take-out box in front of it. It still vaguely smelled of pork chow mein, by the way. "Since you saw it right to bestow me with the honor of Gryffindor Head of House, I wanted you to have this." The only other perso he had ever gifted something to had been Medea, and maybe Calista. Those instances had been for birthdays or to apologize for something utterly ridiculous he had done. So you, Headmistress Truebridge, were perhaps the first to receive a THANK YOU gift.

Time to give yourself a pat on the back in celebration.

"I hope you find it useful."

Annnnd then this happened. Anastasia had REALLY not been expecting the red-suited Astronut to come shooting her way like Halley's comet; usually, he stayed in his own little solar system on the end of the table. But here he was, with a PINK Chinese take-away box and an explanation about.... gifts?!!!

Annie didn't know what to do with it. After staring at the box in suspicion for a few moments, mostly because of WHO gave it to her, she carefully tugged the gift closer to her and opened it with some trepidation. When she pulled out an absolutely DELIGHTFUL mug that not only marked her as the Boss LADY, but also as a FASHIONISTA, she couldn't help but smile.

"Well thank you, Professor Flamsteed," the redhead NEARLY beamed at him. "I will certainly be using this. I quite... like it." LOOK, A GIFT! Why didn't more of her staff give her gifts, huh? She was going to expect retro-gift-giving from both Cece and Leobald now, for their promotions. Abraham as well.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nordic Witch

Passing in front of the headmistress seat Leo flashed Annie a warm smile. "Hello headmistress! I hope you had a wonderful summer vacation."

"Hi, Leobald," Annie was still playing with her shiny new mug as she greeted the friendly librarian. "I did, thank you!" Surely his summer was well, he seemed to have made a full recovery from that little... snafu in the forest last year.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Roselyn

Giving a wiggling finger wave to Leo, Medea smiled towards the man before scooting around towards her seat. "Hello, Cassiopeia. Headmistress." she greeted happily as she took her set, gaze traveling from the Divination professor to the Astronomy professor in front of Annie. Oh...!

"Hello Medea," Annie returned the woman's greeting, even though they had just seen each not THAT long ago --- or so it felt.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Charely Potter

"Good evening Annie. You're looking quite an extravagant tonight." Which came with the territory. "

"Javy!" she smiled pleasantly at the Creatures teacher, "Thank you. You look quite nice yourself." Dressing up for his Piersy, no doubt. Hehe.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davvy_Wavvy

Well her co-workers had arrived..some at least. She stepped up unto the dias, said a general good evening and took the seat next to Leobald.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Magical Soul

Botros had to take only one stop at the Slytherin table on his way from the double doors to his seat on the dais. He got there with his usual broad smile on his face, and climbed the few steps with little help from his cane. "Good evening everyone." He greeted happily, his voice must travel easily now that the hall was empty.

"Good evening," Anastasia returned Sophia's and Ab's greetings with one of her own.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Emzily

Oh, excellent. The kids weren't here yet. Good. Walking into a room full of youths as the new staffer would have been completely horrific.

Archibald rubbed his cheek right after peeking through the door of the Great Hall, as he had developed a barely noticeable stress zit in the past few hours, but it was still embarrassing on his first day. Deciding to take the plunge, Archie placed his hands rigidly by his side as he strode down the loooooong hall, with his bumbag making a really irritating rattling noise as he did so. What a stupid idea it was to bring that thing along.

Ah, the headmistress. He would talk to her first. And apparently, only her, for now. "Hi there." He bent forwards a bit, and then back, and then he crossed his legs as if he needed to pee or something. But he didn't. "Umm..." Archie tapped his chin and raised an eyebrow at the seats before pointing at a few of the empty ones. "Can I just... sit anywhere... or.....?" Aaaaand he trailed off. Didn't want to sit in someone's claimed seat, of course.

Finally, he gave a general raised hand-wave, and then a pathetic smile to each of the present staff members, who were all quite... tall, he noticed. "Oh, hello. Archie." He pointed to himself. Yes, obviously. Archie's eyes went particularly wide as he stopped at the man wearing the red suit. A bit much, wasn't it? Or was he the joker of the gang? Were the Hogwartz staff those kind of people?

Who would Archie be? Mister Under-dressed?

"Archiiiiiiiiibaaaaaaaald," Anastasia would have stood up and greeted the new groundskeeper, a former Housemate of hers, actually. "How ARE you?" Aww, look at him. So cute and nervous. Only cute because he was little, see. "Please, have a seat next to me!" RIGHT THERE, in the totally not cursed chair.

She beamed at him and poured him a water without his asking. Because she was SO KIND.

To new people.

For now.

Quote:

Originally Posted by hpluvr037

Goodness she felt out of the loop. It had really only been one term that she'd been away, but it felt like an eternity. So much had changed in Tiara Tyner's life, even her name! Although, it hardly changed at all! A dazzling wedding ring now glinted upon the fourth finger of her left hand. Her body no longer appeared to belong to a 140-year-old, though it had taken much longer to get back to normal than anyone else's had. She had spent months on a honeymoon abroad and was all the more refreshed for it. Plus, she was not only returning as a married woman, but as a House leader along with Mr. Kitridge!

However, as she entered the hall, she noticed there were several faces that she did not recognize. Airey was, of course, hard to miss. But what of the new person in Seren's seat? Did Bentley retire?! Surely not..? As long as Abraham was still here she would survive. That man made her heart grow warm inside.

Stepping briskly onto the raised dais, she nodded to several of her former-turned-current colleagues before taking her seat beside Anastasia. That is, she assumed it was still her seat. "Good evening, Headmistress. It's good to be back in this place. Good holiday?"

Oh look, look who else was here. "Mrs....Tanner," Annie greeted the SUPPOSEDLY, MAYBE going to teach Flying instructor. "My holiday was fine. How was your.... sabbatical?" Sure, that was what she could call it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by The1HBIC

And then there was Professor Flamsteed standing with the headmistress. "Good evening Airey. Congratulations again on becoming the new head of house for those lions. Too bad your first year as head of house will be tarnished with your lions losing that house cup they stole from my snakes last term."

Yeah, it was safe to say Cece was not going to let her snakes be cheated out of that cup again this term.

Well well well. If it wasn't a STILL SORE loser trying to ruin the good mood already. "Don't be sore, Til--er, Murdoch," she more or less announced called Cece out. No, she wasn't still bitter about how rude the Healer at been at their last feast....... not at all................

Quote:

Originally Posted by the fastest seeker

Usually at this time of year, Andrew would have nothing much to do but this time was of course different. He was quite curious about this new job he had gotten, excitement would be an exaggeration, or maybe he was but certainly not like how other people felt excited. His way was far more composed. But returning to his old school was something enjoyable which was a bit surprising. He did not expect it to be that pleasant but it was. Which was very good news. The familiarity of the castle brought all sort of memories but he didn’t linger around wasting time by feeling nostalgic. He was a practical man.

He made his way towards the Great Hall finding that his feet were moving automatically without waiting for directions.

It was mostly empty of course except for the other professors, who were his colleagues now. With a hand in his pocket and the other by his side, Andrew walked towards the staff table in something of a quick pace.

His eyes did a quick scan of the faces. He noticed first the Headmistress since he'd seen her recently, he nodded politely at her. Did they need to exchange pleasantries? He'd find out soon enough. Next he noticed someone whom he hadn't seen for a while. Flamsteed. Recognition lit in Andrew's eyes and a lot of other things, they had a bit of history, he and Airy did. Another familiar face was Piers's, the herbologist offered a sincere smile towards the charms man.

"Andrew Walton, hope you all had a good summer," he announced himself before occupying his seat.

And look who else was here. Mmmmhhmmhmmm. A former housemate... of her younger brother's. AND an accomplished Herbologist. This would surely be a good term with this handsome handy man out in the greenhouses. She gave Andy a frienddddly wave.

Quote:

Originally Posted by emjay

"Hello, everyone!" Nessa simply beamed at the entire table as she approached. So exciting to all be back!! And there were some new faces too. She was eager to get to know them.

"Hiii," Bunz was feeling just so friendly for now. She didn't miss Fina come in with her BABY though. Um. What was THAT doing at the feast? This was giving her flashbacks to Lafay all over again.