A new term, another school year, her third to be exact. Laurel took her seat near the center of the table, next to the Headmistreess seat and pulled her green and silvery shawl closer around her shoulders to fend off the slight chilly air. The blonde and newly appointed Slytherin Head of House evidenced by the green snake pin pinned to her white and glittery dress, glanced over to Justin's empty seat and sighed heavily knowing full well that the groundskeeper seat soon enough would be filled by someone that wasn't her cousin.

Determinedly Laurel forced those sad thoughts away hoping that one of her colleagues would arrive soon to distract her thoughts to happier and cheerier topics. She wouldn't mind a quiet and peaceful feast night without any student antics over by the Slytherin Table on her first night in charge of the house, but this was a school.

Kalen stepped into the great hall and just for a moment stilled as he looked around. Memories came washing back over him if his time at this school and now look at him, he was the librarian! He shook hisndsrk head and made his way over to the Dias..

He smiled at the woman there as he slid into his seat. "Hello, Laurel. " At least he thought that's who it was.. They had been friends way back in the day.. or at least he knew of her.. she was only a year or two older than him..

He looked out on the empty hall and smiled a bit nervously.. It would soon be filled with kids and his niece was one of them. Speaking of, he needed to talk to the Healer about her but.. first things first..

"Did you have a good summer?" He asked conversationally.. No point in being quiet when they were the only two here yeah?

Kay was in a good mood and very much ready for the feast as well as the new school year. There was determination about her- determination to make this possibly the best year yet; to have some of the best lessons that she had ever had. The sole thing that put a damper on her spirit was the fact that so many familiar faces had resigned from the staff after the end of last term, Jordan and Justin included. But there were still Cami, Rose and Laurel, her girlfriends.

"Good evening, Laurel, Kalen.'' Kay smiled as she came to a stop at dais. "Kalen, welcome to your first Feast as staff.'' Still smiling, she gracefully took her seat. Her blue eyes wandered towards the four House tables. The students should be arriving soon enough.

It was true, Ciara had not been back here since the day she had graduated from this place. Stepping back in the castle had bought back a lot of memories. She walked into the Great Hall, glancing over at the Gryffindor table she remembered her first start of term feast as student. Back then she would have never imagined that she would be back here teaching. Her first start of term feast as a professor she was just as excited about it.

All the thoughts she had disappeared as soon as she had reached the staff table, She smiled at everyone who was already there. ”Hello Laurel.” She stopped to say hello to her. Heading to her seat she which happened to be next to Kaysha, She slid into her seat. ”Hello Kalen, Kay.” She acknowledged both of them with a smile. The view from the staff table was great. She could not wait until the students would be here, and she couldn’t wait to meet them all.

Tristan stepped into the great hall and immediately all the memories of his time here as a student came flooding back to him. it had always been a goal for him to work here one day, and here he was, Care of Magical Creatures Professor at his school! He was beyond excited, slightly nervous, and completely happy to be here.

He made his way to the Staff table, greeting everyone that was seated as he went. "Good evening Laurel, Kalen, Kay, and Ciara! Hope you all are doing well!" He said with a smile and took his seat. His nerves were starting to kick in, but he wouldn't let that show. He was good about hiding his emotions, though sometimes they did get the best of him. But these were good nerves...excited ones. The smile plastered on his face was evidence of that.

Now, where was his best friend?

It was too warm to wear 45 layers and a fur coat. Haraldur realized this, as he wore 45 layers and a fur coat.

To avoid any unneccessary walking, the now former Ranger had decided to grab his trusted broom; Månjägaren, and simply fly up from his Hut to the castle. He slowly hovered through the Great Hall up to the Staff table, humming an old tune to himself. The feathers on his head swayed slightly but never moved out of place, if they could hold against the strong wind when he was soaring across Svalbard; they would hold for an Opening Feast.

Some of the other professors were already there. It wasn't like he'd forgotten their names... Actually, that's exactly what he'd done. He'd forgotten all of them. Names were a hassle, with or without previous encounters with bludgers to the head.

Haraldur came to a halt and stepped off his broom. "Yes, yes, hello." The 65-year old Groundskeeper and Flying instructor waved his hand a little in greeting to the other professors.

He had to admit he was curious about Hogwarts and the different houses. It was very different from Durmstrang. But most of all he was curious about the food.

Now, where was it?

Stepping into the Great Hall, Camilla was nothing but smiles. The Professor was in a wonderful mood and really how could she not be. The previous term had been a very rough one for everyone but the summer had been just what she needed. A ton of traveling had been done and some very much needed time with the family was also had. She was now more then ready to get into this new term.

Warm brown eyes focused in on those already present at the Dais as she made her way over. "Hello everyone, I hope you're all doing well and had a lovely summer," Cami greeted sending each person a warm smile. Making her way around the Dais she gave her cousins (Kaysha) shoulder a light squeeze before arriving at her own chair near the end of the table and sitting down. It was nice to see everyone else appeared to be in high spirits so far and that she wasn't running late either.

She couldn't believe that it was that time of year again. Summer had gone by so fast. For her, this summer wasn't the greatest, the only good thing about this summer was the fact that she had gotten married to the love of her life after being together for ten years. Next summer her and Donovan would be putting on a big wedding celebration because they sort of got eloped in Barcelona. Oops. At least their families weren't angry with them so that was a good.

Keiyona took a deep breath and made her way into the Great Hall. This was a bit different than Uagadou School of Magic. She was expecting this and Donovan and Liesl were telling her all about Hogwarts. Kei made her way towards the staff table with a smile on her face. She was always a happy person so if there wasn't a smile on her face or she didn't look like she was happy to be somewhere there was a problem. She's also a hugger so beware of her hugs. She knew that if she had attended Hogwarts while she was still in school she would have been in Hufflepuff.

As Keiyona finally made it to the staff table she smiled at everyone, it was a genuine smile, she was very honored to be teaching here and there was no way she was going to forget that. She knew this was the job of a lifetime. Her golden brown eyes looked around and the fell upon another knew staff member. "Hello Kalen." her eyes kept scanning for some other people, she was going to greet everyone. They fell on the blonde Divinations professor whose seat was right next to hers. "Hello Laurel." joy was heard in her Ugandan accent. Who else was still here. She was just so happy that she wasn't messing up anyone's name so far.

This was a good thing for her because she might have studied everyone's name and what subject they were teaching. "Good evening, Ciara." she smiled with a little nod to the Potions professor. "Hello Kaysha." That was the woman that had the same nickname as her just spelled differently. There were the other two new professors besides herself. "Hello Tristan and Haraldur." more joy was in her tone of voice. With that she only had one other person to greet. "Good evening, Camilla." after she greeted her she walked over to her seat at the other end of the table.

At the start of his first term at Hogwarts Gaston had been nervous. At the start of his second, he was excited, but this time all he felt was a sense of overwhelming dread as he entered the Great Hall. The fight he'd had with his father over the break had him questioning who he could still trust; he didn't know who liked him and who, like his father, just pretended to care because the situation demanded it.

His heart dropped at the sight of the people already gathered; he didn't think he could put on a big fake smile and make small talk for the rest of the night. He was always useless at hiding his emotions! In fact, he hadn't wanted to come to the feast at all, but he was too terrified of Hawthorne's disapproval to even think about skipping it. "Good evening, everyone," he greeted his colleagues with a polite nod. He had to stifle a bitter chuckle at Cami's words; "lovely" was probably the last word he'd use to describe his summer!

The new Gryffindor Head of House took his assigned seat beside Tristan and gave his new neighbor a forced but (he hoped) still encouraging smile as a greeting. He remembered how it felt to be the new guy and hoped things would go well for all the new staff. Then he turned to the other new Head of House. "Congratulations, Laurel," he said.

Gaston fidgeted with the bracelets on his arm as he stared out at the tables that would soon be full of students, his bright blue eyes lingering on the Gryffindor table. He still couldn't believe he was head of Gryffindor! He couldn't help but wonder if it was all a trick... that he'd just been appointed so the others could watch him fail. He sighed quietly. How was he supposed to guide and nurture these kids when he was ahlf-expecting them to turn on him at any moment, just like his father had?

Laurel was considering to pull out the latest edition of her favourite seer magazine to distract herself with when Kalen arrived like on a given signal. She had of course seen that he was going to come soon after her, it was though nice to get it confirmed. Raising her gaze to him as he stepped up on the dais, a kind smile pursed her lips. "Hello Kalen,"

"I had a great eventful summer. How was your summer? Does it feel weird to be back?" Laurel couldn't help herself from asking that last question. They were both former snakes after all.

Moments later Kay arrived in her pink dream dress that she had bought during their girlfriend outing in Diagon Alley together with Rose. "Good evening Kay, that dress still looks like a dream." Laurel pointed out with a wink. "Did you have a good rest of the summer?" Had she been hiking with Rose and Cami?

It didn't take long before Ciara Canterbury joined them on the staff dais. When the other woman stopped by her seat Laurel turned in her seat to look at her former school mate with a smile. "Hello Ciara, are you excited to start teaching tomorrow?"

It was hard to not keep smiling as Tristan came up and claimed with confidence the seat that used to belong to Jordan. Laurel almost cast a glance in Kay's direction to see her reaction but didn't. Instead she focused on her former year mate. "Good evening Tristan, did you think you'd come back to teach CoMC to other students when we went here years ago?"

The next entrance was grand and unorthodox to say the least. Laurel stared wide eyed as the new groundskeeper and flying instructor Haraldur zoomed up to the dais on a broom wearing what looked to be an insane amount of layers of clothing, a fur coat to boot and least not forget feathers in his hair. Laurel totally forgot that she was supposed to be sad and angry that he wasn't her cousin Justin when the 65 year old took his seat.

Leaning over the empty headmistress seat Laurel said kindly to her senior colleague. "Good evening Haraldur," In a quieter tone she suggested meaningfully "It will be a very long and warm feast if you don't remove a couple of layers of clothing." It was for Haraldurs wellbeing that she said so otherwise River might have his first patient to tend to right on the dais for fainting or even heat stroke.........or something.

Laurel didn't see Camilla until she heard her voice and caught a sight of the warm smile the other woman fired off in her direction. Returning the smile she greeted "Good evening Cami! I'm good and so was my summer. How was your hiking trip?"

Next staffer to arrive as Laurel straightened up was Keiyona, the new Astro professor after Caroleena had resigned. Flashing the brunette a smile. "Hello Keiyona or do you prefer to be called Kei?" At least in informal gatherings in between staffers? And then Gaston arrived on the dais without Rose on his arm which was a bit weird, but maybe she had been held up? The head of house congratulation threw her the night's second unexpected curve ball. Blushing Laurel said "Thank you Gaston and same to you. Did you have good summer?"

Paul Myers was actually snazzied up for once, and his outfit had nothing to do with a poncho. A well-pressed sweater vest over a thin, collared shirt with khaki clacks and bright orange dress shoes...this was mild for the Herbologist. But he felt like dressing suavely. For once. He smiled as he made his way into the Great Hall after straightening up his meeting space slightly. It was brand new! The kids would love it!

Now, he had a lot of new colleagues. The only one whose name he remembered was Harald. And yes, he would be calling him Harald. He waved at the new groundskeeper and grinned. "Evening, Harald. You look quite toasty tonight," he winked at the new silver-haired man. His new fox friend. He would miss Arthur, still, but at least he wasn't the only silver-haired fellow.

Of course, he thought he had their names correctly. He greeted Laurel with a wave, and the new Librarian, Kalen, with a nod of his head. "Laurel, Tristan!" he called out. By Tristan, he meant Kalen, but Paul had no CLUE. NO CLUE. There was Kay, looking as dapper as ever. Everyone looked nice tonight. Paul was sad he had forgone the poncho for once. He looked too uniform with all of them. Kudos to Harald for breaking the mold, eh?

"Hello, Sara!" he called out to Ciara, clearly getting her name wrong. Again, he had not a clue. "How is everyone doing tonight, then?" he asked with a cheerful smile. He still didn't know how to say Keiyona's name, so he settled for a, "Hello, miss lovely!" and bowed his head at her, waved at Gaston (who looked off), and remembered the news!

"Oh, congrats to you both! Gaston, Laurel!" he grinned. "You've joined Hirsch and I in the Head of House ranks." It would be good for Gaston, hopefully. Give the boy more confidence. Merlin knew he could use it.

The new creatures fellow looked nice as well! "Kalen! Well hello!" And by Kalen, he meant Tristan.

Whoops.

Did somebody say Hirsch?

If he was completely honest with himself, Hirsch wasn't sure if he wanted come to this event or not. It was the start of term feast, sure, but there were going to be questions asked. Innocently posed questions about the summer that had just gone and the man wasn't entirely sure how he was going to answer these questions.

Eventually, the Defence Professor descended into the Great Hall for the feast. His hands were tucked into the pockets of his suit and there was a slightly forced dimpled smile on his face. As always, there was a blue Ravenclaw pin pinned to his chest, an accessory that had long since become tradition for him to wear to these things. A quick glance around the area told him that even though he was late - Viktor Sokolov was right - he wasn't too late. There were no students here, after all.

And so, he concentrated on the staff, instead. "Evening, all," he said once he'd reached the dias, "I hope you're all doing well. Everyone ready for the new year?" No Regina? Was the Headmistress running late? That wasn't like her, was it? Just to check, the man glanced up and down the dias and then behind him and at the entrance of the Great Hall. Huh.

And where exactly was River?

Shrugging it off, the Ravenclaw Head of House went to sit down in between two new Heads of Houses. Funny how that turned out, didn't it? "Congrats, Laurel," he said once he sat down and had the chance to look at her properly, "The green really suits you." Smile. "And congrats, Gaston. Looking forward to taking over the lions?" Hopefully, this added responsibility would give the man a little bit of a confidence boost. Merlin knows, he needed it.

Was Regina late? A queen headmistress was never late. Everyone else was simply early. (As they should be.)

The doors of the grand hall opened slightly, moments later to reveal the woman. Blue eyes focused on the staff dais just in time to see Roderik take his usual spot at the table. Her focus then shifted, realizing just how many members of the staff had arrived before she made her own appearance. A pleasant smile grew on the American's face as she made her way between the tables, the Sorting Hat at hand and confirmed information about what would be happening that term that was finally ready to be revealed.

It was nice to see most of her colleagues already present. And not a single ghastly poncho in sight.

"Hello, everyone," Regina greeted them all at once as she made her way to her throne in the middle of the table after setting the hat on a stool in the centre of the dais. For a moment she paused when she noticed what all Haraldur was wearing and how overly warm he looked. Her mouth opened a little, but the headmistress continued on. She wasn't going to lecture the old man, the groundskeeper of all people, about Britain's climate.

Following a quick glance down at her runic watch, the woman looked down at the empty House tables. They wouldn't be empty soon if her timing was spot on -- which, in most cases, generally was. "The students should be arriving soon," she casually announced, adjusting her goblet ever-so-slightly. The sooner the students were there, the better. There were a few things that had yet to be planned and put into effect.

Hopefully she wasn't running late!

It had taken longer for Rosalyn to get ready than she had intended for, but there was nothing to be done for it now. At least she knew that the students hadn't arrived yet. Really she was going to be early enough no matter what because she ALWAYS did her best to be as punctual as possible.

Following behind the Headmistress, she made her way into the Great Hall. A number of her colleagues had arrived already. "Hello, Tristan," Rosalyn said with a smile as she passed by her best friend. Well, her guy best friend because really she could have more than one bestie. Gaston got a small smile, but nothing else. Yes, she was not happy about certain things, but now was not the time for that... There was a feast to be had and she was going to make the best of this night. "You're looking nice, Roderik," she added as she passed him by. Really everyone was looking great tonight! Haraldur was certainly rocking an... interesting look.

All the new staff got smiles. "Are you all ready for term?" Rosalyn could remember what it was like to be here for the first time as a professor and it was definitely an experience. She knew that they would all do amazing. "I absolutely adore the outfits," she said to Kay, Laurel, and Cami. They always dressed spectacular though. "Evening, Headmistress. How are you?" And there was the ever cheerful Paul "It's lovely to see you," she told him. Rosalyn really liked him, he was a wonderful person.

Haraldur nodded to everyone who had greeted him and also gave a small smile to the professors that arrived after him. He nodded in silence because still... Names. They were just not happening.

Someone who insisted on saying his own name wrong was the older banjo playing man. Except for the butchering of his name, Haraldur enjoyed the herbology professor's presence. He had life experience. Plus, he gave him a wink. Haraldur appreciated that and tried to wink back but he'd never quite gotten the hang of it or some previous head trauma had something to do with it.

"It's too warm." Haraldur grumbled to the herbology professor before taking his seat. "Summer..." He was not a fan.

He nodded to the woman next to him who was the Slytherin Head of House. Whichever house Slytherin was. As Staff he was expected to know every last bit of Hogwarts History and he'd really tried to read up on it... Who knew Hogwarts had been around for that long? That made for a looot of reading. And who had the time? I mean, really. The old man gave her an odd look and shook his head. "I don't understand." He said. Because... He didn't. "The feast is long whether or not I remove clothes." Was this another Brittish tradition he knew nothing about? "I am quite comfortable, I assure you Miss." She got two pats on her shoulder by the large man. What a nice lady she was.

"Headmistress." Ha! He knew that. He knew her title. Haraldur gave her a nod as she took her seat in the middle of the table, which just happened to be the seat next to Haraldur. Don't mind the feathers. They most likely won't fall down into anyone's food. It had only happened like... Once or twice.

Haraldur leaned back in his seat and took a glance around the Great Hall that would soon fill up with students (which would make the temperature in the room rise, that would be great). The tiny students would arrive any second and then he could eat. And then he could take his broom and fly outta there to a more forgiving climate. Like... Up in the sky somewhere.

River did wish they still had a week before the start of the new term. He did have an eventful summer, actually, it was a bit over the usual summers he had in the past and was thankful that he had Hirsch to share it with. Massaging his right temple, River kept his head down as he followed Rosalyn down to the Great Hall. The Healer made a very quick inspection of the Hospital Wing and was met with chaos. The school's healing potion supplier made a mistake with the deliveries and he had to send a stern and annoyed letter to them.

He really ought to enjoy the first meal of the term tonight, but it seemed it was impossible as he massaged his blossoming headache. Hmm. Perhaps a Howler would've been better. Let out the frustration and such perhaps.

As he neared the dais, River forced a smile towards his colleagues, and collectively greeted them. "Good evening, everyone," he said giving Hirsch an arm punch as he made his way towards his...oh, new seat! River made himself comfortable and procured a small phial of potion for his headache and drank it in one go.

He'd probably wait for the medicine to take effect first before starting a conversation with his colleagues...

“Thank you, Laurel! I’m still in love with it so much.’’ In her opinion, it was one of the best she had ever owned. “I did. I went hiking with Rose and Cami afterwards but the rest of the summer was quiet. Are you ready to take on your new challenge?’’ The Muggle Studies woman was so proud of her friend for being Head of House!

A few moments later, he colleagues started to trickle in. Kay smiled warmly in each of their directions, especially at the newbies. “Hello, Ciara. Were you having memories of your years as a Gryffindor?’’ She had not missed that look to the Lion table. There was Jordan’s replacement. She didn’t mean to think of him that way but she had a difficult time coping sometimes when persons she really liked left. Granted, it had only happened with Rose when she had replaced Ansley. It wasn’t that Kay resented the replacements; it was just that they’d take some time getting used to. “Hello, Tristan. Looking forward to the term?’’

Haraldur’s dress up surprised Kay. Yes, she knew he was accustomed to the cold but it certainly was warm at present. Still, he got a greeting as did Gaston, Paul, Roderik and River. “Good evening!’’

A small, knowing smile played on Kay’s lips when Cami approached then squeezed her shoulder. “Cami. It’s going to be an interesting term ahead.’’ She would know what was being referred to. “Hello, Keiyona. Wow! I love your dress.’’ The colours just looked so pretty together.

“Good evening, Regina,’’ Kay greeted the Head. She nodded and looked towards the four Tables again. She could hardly wait for the students to get there, really. “Rose. Hello. Thank you. You look wonderful of course.’’ The best friend always did.

Kalen nodded over at Laurel as she spoke and responded to him. "A great eventful summer hmm? Sounds like there is a story there. " The green eyed man said with a soft chuckle as he shrugged his shoulders, his brown jacket creasing a bit as he did so. "My summer was good as well, got to meet my niece. " He paused for a moment.. "It's very odd to be back, but also I'm very honored to be in these hallowed halls again. " He said with a grin as he adjusted a few of his bangs on his head.. making sure they were perfect. He needed to look good in his first appearance, yeah?

He turned to look at Kaysha as she arrived and she got a warm smile. "Thank you so much, I'm so glad to be here. " He said as he watched her settle in and then his eyes moved to the next person that came in..

"Hello Ciara" He said kindly as he looked over at her briefly, before his green eyes were drawn to another new arrival.. "Hello Keiyona" Her greeting was returned kindly and with a nod.

He had studied up on the names of everyone before he had arrived, to try and look as learned as possible. And not look dumb if he couldn't remember anyone! He was glad that he wasn't a Ravenclaw! He did not want that legacy to live up too.

He sent a nod over to Tristan as he greeted him. "Doing well, yourself? " He asked as he nervously smoothed down his hands on his pants, he wasn't doing well, he felt like he was going to throw up he was so nervous! But no one needed to know that! Nopeeee no one was going to know that! He had A rep to protect, yeah?

His attention was taken by Haraldur as he entered on a broom wearing what looked to be an entire pack of antelope.. Kalen hid a smile and instead just raised an eyebrow and smiled and nodded at the caretaker. This was going to be an interesting term.

Gaston and Camilla got head nods and waves from him. The charms professor didn't exactly look thrilled to be there.. Neither did Hirsch.. or River which disappointed the former Slytherin a bit.. He knew of those two people, Hirsch due to Leon and Azura going on about how amazing he was as a teacher and a head of house, River because not only did Chase know him from his healing days. But his niece Azura was best friends with Rivers nephew Jace.. He hoped he would get to talk to them later..

He wore a baffled look as a Paul came in and addressed him by the wrong name but he sent a smile his way anyways.. and of course Regina got a nod of his head and a smile..

Ohh look someone else who didn't look super excited to be here. Rosalyn got a smile as well..

Merlin.. why did people look so gloomy?

It was really nice to feel so welcomed back, she smiled back at Laurel. ”I’m ready for it.” Though the former Gryffindor would never admit to the nervousness that loomed over her for her first lesson tomorrow. To Ciara’s surprise she was calm, all the nervousness pretty much had gone away once she had taken her seat. The excitement of being back and teaching at Hogwarts she had almost forgot that this time last year she was at Ilvermorny. She liked it there but it was great to be back home. Seeing so many familiar faces from her time as a student here, now they were also Professors too.

Tristan showed up shortly after her, another former Hogwartian. She smiled and nodded at him. ”Very well. Hope you are too.” Then Haraldur entered the great hall, he was a dear old man, Ciara adored him. But she had to say he looked warm and well bundled up. Older people did get cold easier maybe that’s what it was. ”Hello Haraldur” She returned his wave also.

Two more slowed up pretty much right after each other. Cami the transfiguration professor she gave her a small wave as she came and sat in her the chair next to her. You gotta love the seating arrangements, she was between the Stewarts. ”Hello, Cami.” She said with a bright smile. Turning to Kay, she nodded. ”Just a little trip down memory lane.” She turned to Kalen "Are you ready for term to start?"

Also ”Hello, Kei.” She nodded to the Astronomy professor. She did the same for Gaston as he arrived. ”Good evening to you as well.” Okay so maybe the nervousness had came back as more the other staff arrived, and soon the students would be here. She didn’t realize that Paul was talking to her due to being acknowledged by the wrong name. ”Oh it’s Ciara.” She smiled but had to stifle back a laugh, she supposed that Sara was close to Ciara.

Roderick got a smile and a wave. ”Good evening, Roderick.” As did the Headmistress, ”And Good Evening to you Regina.” She had worked with her, her first two years at Ilvermorny. Relieved that she had told them the students would be arriving soon. Rounding off the last of the staff was Rose and River. That was all of them now, correct? ”Hello Rose, Healer Reed.” She raised her hand and waved to both of them. These feast always used to take forever, and they still did.

Tristan smiled as Haraldur flew through great hall. He was such an interesting person, in look and personality. Tristan gave the older man a smile, wave, and head nod. He seemed as if he didn't want much conversation at the moment, which was just fine with Tristan.

Soon another professor to greet came strutting into the great hall. "Hello Cami!" He said with a smile and a wave. She seemed to be having a conversation with her cousin at the opposite end of the table, to which he didn't want to interrupt by further conversation. Tristan found it so interesting that so many of his colleagues were fellow students with him here at Hogwarts. Though some he didn't know well, others he knew very well and couldn't wait to get to know again.

Then soon Keiyona was making her way to her seat, which happened to be next to him. "Hello, Keiyona. How are you this evening?" He said with a small smile. Her background was really very interesting to him. Hopefully the could become good friends this year. he felt the same about all his colleagues, with exception to Rose and Kalen of course. Rose was his best friend, and he was pretty close to Kalen as well.

When Gaston entered and sat down next to him, he immediately could tell something was wrong. Mostly because Rose wasn't with him, but the man also looked like he would rather be anywhere but here right now. He could tell the smile the Frenchman gave him was forced and strained, but still seemed genuine. "Gaston." Tristan said with a small smile and head nod. He hoped to get to know the man better. He wanted to be friends with him, and of course, support Rose.

And then there was the beautiful Laurel! Tristan smiled, "Good evening Laurel." He paused to hear her question, and gave her a beaming smile, "I was never for certain about where I would end up, but I always hoped to be back here one day." He smiled, "What about you? You have been here how many terms now? I am sure you love being back as well!" He knew Laurel pretty well from their Hogwarts days. She was always a very kind person, though he recalled her being bullied a lot. Never by him, of course. Though he had been in trouble a lot at Hogwarts it was never for bullying people.

Did Paul just call him Kalen? He raised his right eyebrow in confusion, before giving the older man a small chuckle, "Hello, Paul. I'm Tristan, actually. But it's ok. I am sure meeting a whole swarm of new professors can be confusing, sir." He said with a rueful grin.

"Evening, Roderik." Tristan said with a smile and head nod to the DADA professor. He had heard many good things about Hirsch. He sounded like a really amazing professor to have her. "Doing well and well prepared! How about yourself?" He said with a kind smile. If there was anyone here he would want to be friends with it was definitely Hirsch.

Next thing he knew, the Headmistress was coming in, toting the the sorting hat along with her. Tristan gave her a smile, "Evening, Regina." She was lovely inside and out. He heard what happened last term and was impressed by her bravery and love for this school, despite never stepping for in the castle until she became headmistress. He nodded at her comment about students arriving, and suddenly his stomach was doing somersaults. How was he so nervous?

Tristan grinned hugely as Rose, his best friend in the world, walk into the great hall. He smiled hugely and gave her a wink, "Hello, Rose." He did notice that Gaston only got a smile, and wondered what was going on there. She did seem to be a little distressed, even though she was hiding it well. He would have to talk to her later, when she wasn't a table length away from him and they had a little more privacy.

Then the school healer came in. He seemed to be either very tired or upset about something. Goodness, was everyone in a solemn mood tonight or what? "Evening, River," was all he said with a smile and a nod. He could tell when conversation wasn't wanted.

Then Kay caught his attention; he smiled, replying, "Very much so! How about you, Kay? I am sure your Muggle Studies lessons are fantastic. I wouldn't mind siting in one day." He said with a wink. It was amazing just how many of his colleagues were former students. It never ceased to amaze him.

Back to Kalen, another old friend of his. "Doing great. We really need to catch up soon!" He said with a smile and a wink. It had been a long time since he had seen Kalen. They were actually very good friends at one time, despite kalen being a year younger than he was. He was really excited to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. This term was just going to be great!

"Doing very well, Ciara. Thank you!" He said with a smile and a wink. Though he didn't know her that well, he did remember her from his time at Hogwarts.

Soon, he heard footsteps outside....was that students arriving already? His stomach fluttered as he patiently awaited all the small faced that he would soon know as his students.

Hirsh had arrived! Paul smiled and waved at the handsome younger fellow. "Hello, Hirsch-y kiss! How's it going?" he winked. Tormenting Hirsh was something Paul had grown to love. It wasn't nearly as satisfying as tormenting Draper had been, but alas. He hadn't heard from James in so long. He hoped the man was doing well. Thank you Peeeeves for that lovely nickname for Hirsch was well.

Ahh, there was Regina. Paul sent her a warm smile. She looked very dashing tonight, yes, and while they didn't see things...similarly hardly ever, he respected the woman. "Evening, Regina. How are you, then? Had a relaxing summer?" Or had she been...preparing? Paul had certainly relaxed. He wished he could sit NEXT to her. He wanted to discuss THINGS. Like Poncho Tuesdays. And other less important things. Freaky Friday's was another idea he had....THEY COULD ALL HAVE CRAZY HAIR. It was wonderful, yes. No body switching, though. That would be too much.

Table buddy Rosalyn was here! Wonderful, wonderful! Paul made sure there was room for her, and he nodded. "Nice to see you, too. I expect you've have a good summer?" And...the welcome between her and Gaston did not go unnoticed by Paul. The nosy man perked his ears slightly...hmm. What could be going on, then? Trouble in paradise? Did she need someone to talk to? Paul A. genuinely cared and wanted to help and B. WANTED TO KNOW WHAT THE HECK WAS GOING ON. "Are you...okay, dear?" he asked softly, so only she would hear. Art was no longer here, either, to look after her. Her dear, dear uncle. Again, Paul missed him.

Paul merely chuckled as he leaned over to look at Harald. "YES summer is for WARM WEATHER," he decided to be cheeky. "WARM." Where was the man from again? Somewhere cold? Probably. Paul couldn't remember. He also began to wonder if the man had the OPTION of taking off the feathery...thing. "Are those real?" he asked curiously.

River had arrived, and Paul waved over at him. He should get to know the healer more this term. He seemed nice enough. "Good evening!" he called out back to Kay. It seemed Tristan (really Kalen) was shy, which Paul thought was OKAY...but he'd get him out of his shell eventually, surely? Hopefully.

"CIARA!" Paul smacked his forehead lightly. "I am SO so sorry, m'dear! Forgive me, please," he smiled. Whoops.

Wait.

THAT WAS TRISTAN? So that meant...other bloke was KALEN? Right? Paul blinked...and then smirked at the real Tristan. "Of course. I'm also old. Very old. Vastly overaged. Elderly. Practically dead," he snorted at the dramatic!ness of himself. He was ONLY 65...or so. He couldn't remember right now. But now...he wondered...how long poor Kalen would let him get away with calling him Tristan >.>

Evil plans were stirring.

The sound of Laurel's voice jerked Gaston out of his sad thoughts. "You're welcome... and thank you," he replied with a polite yet forced smile. But his expression quickly changed at the mention of summer. He tried to block his father's biting words from replaying in his mind for what must be the thousandth time since their fight, but it was no use. "Well let's just say my summer had its ups and downs." he said with a bitter chuckle that he disguised with a cough. What else could he say? He wasn't going to lie, but he didn't want to spoil anyone's night with tales of his family dysfunction.

More people were arriving now. Gaston looked up, nodding politely in turn toward everyone who arrived after him. "Good evening," he said again, this time addressing Paul, Hirsch, and River. He had barely enough time to return Paul's wave befroe Headmistress Hawthorne walked in. Gaston stiffened, sitting up a little straighter. "Good evening, Headmistress Hawthorne," he said politely.

What was that? Right... Paul and Hirsch were congratulating him on being appointed head of Gryffindor. "Thank you,Paul, Roderik," he replied, but he blinked in surprise at Hirsch's question. Was that a trick? What was he supposed to say when the expected answer was a lie and the truth would make him look incompetent? "Y-yes, of course," he said offhandedly, his eyes once again straying to the Gryffindor table.

Gaston's heart dropped as Rosalyn appeared. So began nine months of distancing himself from the love of his life... He returned her smile with one of his own, not a loving smile but one of polite acknowledgement, but he kept his gaze down to hide the sadness and longing in his eyes. Usually seeing her cheered him up, but tonight it just made him even sadder and angrier... angry at everyone who'd judged him for loving her and forced him into this position. Merlin, this was going to be a long term!

He took a deep breath and forced himself to focus on the sorting ceremony unfolding. He applauded politely for each new student, though the applause was slightly louder for the new Gryffindors. Despite everything, he still couldn't help but feel some sense of pride when another student joined the Gryffindor table.

Yes, we saw that smile Kaysha. Camilla nodded once. "It certainly is. Only time will tell for sure." Just as she knew what her cousin meant she knew the other women would know exactly what she was speaking about as well.

"Good evening, Keiyona. Ready to get this term underway?" she smiled at the Astronomy professor. She knew how nervous she had been at the start of last term.

Gaston got a warm smile from her as he joined the dais. "Thank you again for cat sitting for me. Bonsai seemed to have a wonderful time with you and Phantom, I think he was slightly confused upon returning home and not seeing his friend." Poor cat had looked so lost for a few days following coming home!

Speaking of her summer trip, Camilla turned her attention towards Laurel when she asked about it. "It was wonderful. If us girls go on another weekend trip you should join us," she replied smiling. "In fact all us ladies should get together and plan something." That could be really nice, having all the female staff together for a camping trip or something like that. It was a whole year away though so it wasn't something she would focus much on as of now.

Camilla smiled warmly at Paul's arrival. The man always made her smile with his happiness and welcoming ways. His mix up on some of their colleagues names made her laugh softly and she sent a wave to him because clearly he had NOT seen her and that's why she didn't get a personal greeting, yes? Yes. That had to be the reason.

Was that Hirsch? It was. The Transfiguration professor smiled brushing a stray lock of brown hair from her face. "More then ready to get this term underway. How were your travels over the summer?" she had heard about his adventuring but didn't know much more then that.

Just as she thought the Headmistress should be arriving soon the women walked through the doors of the Great Hall. "Good evening, Regina," she greeted warmly from her spot down at the end of the table. Hopefully the women had been able to hear her as she didn't want to shout over anyone else.

There was Rose. "Thank you, Rose. That color is gorgeous on you." She smiled taking a quick look up and down the table. Everyone looked really nice tonight honestly.

Haraldur, Kalen and Tristan all got a friendly smile and wave from her as the three men took their sits.

"Good evening, River," Cami greeted the Healer with her usual smile. "Thank you again for that compass, it did come in handy on the camping trip." It had been a thoughtful gift that she appreciated very much while being out in the middle of nowhere during the summer with both Rose and Kay.

"Hello, Ciara," she smiled giving a little wave in return as the women sat between Kay and herself. "Are you ready for the start of the term?" Just some simply friendly conversation before Regina gave her speech.

Paul trickled in next looking dapper in a suit and he was missing his traditional feast poncho. Was he feeling all right? Laurel had to wonder. It was unlike him. Pushing it aside she returned his wave with one of her own and then a warm beam formed as she accepted the congratulations with a nod of her head."Good evening Paul, and thank you so much! Have you got any sage advice to give a newbie head of house on her first night in charge of hundreds of students?"

Finally was the first word the popped into her head for some reason when Roderick came up on the dais and sat down in his seat next to her in a suit the smelled like it had been ironed recently. Turning her blue eyed gaze to him she greeted with a smile pursing her lips. "Hello Roderick!"

"Thank you so much Roderick! It will be an interesting challenge to take over leading the snakes after Justin. Is it all right if I come by your office to get tips if i need any from one head to another during the year?" Laurel asked. She had confidence in herself and her abilities but she didn't have experience yet.

Laurel's attention quickly turned over to the Headmistress as she came up on the dais and casually announced after sitting down in her throne that the student's were arriving soon. Flashing the other woman a warm smile Laurel greeted. "Good evening Regina, lovely dress!"

She almost missed Roses arrival in a classic black piece because of Regina's entrance, but when her girlfriend met her eye and threw a comment her way Laurel immediately responded with a warm beam. "Hi Rose, I absolutely adore the classic black piece you're wearing tonight too Rose. Do you think we were born with noses for finding the perfect dresses for ourselves?"

Pouring some cold pumpkin juice into her goblet as she awaited the students arrival her attention was caught by the feathered and overly dressed and large man beside her yet again. Raising a brow at Haraldurs confusion Laurel sighed inwardly, but outwardly she smiled sweetly "I understand, I just don't want you to faint from being over heated or something Haraldur. The temperature in the hall will rise considerably when the student's get here." Which was why she wore a light dress and a shawl around her shoulders that she mostly likely wouldn't need by the time the food arrived.

The two pats on her shoulder was a nice gesture though from him. "Did you work as a groundskeeper before coming here?" Laurel wondered conversationally. It couldn't hurt to start to get to know her feast buddy even if he reminded her acutely of Justin not being there.

Moments later River arrived to claim his new seat on the dais. Laurel got the sense that he was unhappy about something, and that he downed a potion phial in one go probably was connected to it but she had better manners than to snoop in that. She had a feeling he didn't want to talk about it. "Good evening River, are you looking forward to the new year?"

Taking a few sips of pumpkin juice Laurel watched with relief as the first few students started to trickle into the hall one by one or in groups to find their tables. It was at that time that Kay snagged her attention again. "It's a very pretty dress. You should wear it to more events than just the opening feast." Laurel suggested. Smiling she asked "Then your hiking trip was memorable?"

Nodding she beamed brightly "I'm ready and excited to take on my new challenge. Justin gave me some helpful tips when were at Disney together during the summer."

Laurel's gaze had strayed over to the snake table where it looked like one girl was playing with something but from where she sat she couldn't see what that was. Oliver was there though so he could sort it out. Turning her head to Camilla again she beamed warmly "I'm glad to hear your trip was great! I'd love to join you guys, but I'm really not much of a hiker girl." Laurel could walk for miles it was just that her feet didn't like it. Nodding she said excitedly. "Awesome idea Cami! We could have an all ladies meeting in the staff room and plan and gossip together some night soon."

Gaston should be elated and excited for his first night as Lion Head but instead Laurel just got the impression that he was sad and troubled about something. Best not to poke her nose in what was the cause. She had seen things though. Shrugging Laurel pointed out."All vacations have its up and downs. It comes with it. Are you ready to axle the head role after Art?"

Laurel managed to drink more sips and observe the students at the snake table a bit more before handsome Tristan responded to her earlier question to him. Smiling she shared with him. "This will be my third year at Hogwarts. And I do love being back here just as much as you do and rekindling friendships with other old classmates on staff is an added bonus. I predicted that I'd come back one day and it really feels like being home." Tristan would know what she meant. They'd been good friends in their school days.

Looking down to the right end of the where she found Ciara's gaze and called down. "I'm glad to hear it. Didn't you like potions already when were at school?"

Then Kalen's face came into view just as Laurel leaned back against the back of her chair to take another sip of pumpkin juice from her goblet to quiet the hunger pangs that was stirring her stomach. Smiling broadly at Kalen she said "I did more stuff than I normally do and that's why it became an eventful summer. I'm glad you had a good summer too. Do you really want to hear everything about the seer convention, disney trip and everything else i did? It will take a lot of tea drinking." Just a fair warning.