The last time Amelia was at this dais was around the turn of the century. Before the last wizarding war. Before her grandson was sorted and went through the Hogwarts education system, as so many of her family. There was a sorting she was still looking forward to... Laurel and Aaron's kids, although that wouldn't be for another year or two. And Laurel's niece was starting this term. But one of the strangest things was that since her last rodeo at Hogwarts, it was an entirely new set of faces among both students and staff (had there been three or four headmasters since Malachi Trent?). Although that Burke fellow who took over as flying instructor when she left, he was still there, but all the rest were new...

Taking it all in, she nodded at her colleagues as she awaited the arrival of the students, taking a calculated sip of water.

Well wasn’t this just dreadfully exciting?

Apollonia Fergersnout, the newly appointed History of Magic Professor, had not attended a Hogwarts feast since she graduated all those years (read: decades) ago. She had been a spritely young Hufflepuff once with a pep for life and the enthusiasm to match. To be truthful, she hadn’t changed much other than the obvious signs of aging worn on her face and several years of hard work and perseverance. On this occasion she would be perched up on the staff dias rather than on the tables below with a perfect overview of all the little Cherub’s beaming faces ready to start or continue their education.

…or it could be that they were looking forward to tonight’s delicacies, in which case the woman could hardly blame them. She couldn’t wait for a slice of pumpkin pie either.

She had spent the hours before the feast attempting to organise her office ready to accept visiting students in the morning which was really quite a feat for a woman who often lived in a constant state of disarray and whose organisational skills were less than to be desired. How she had managed to pull herself together from the dusty disheveled mess she had been just an hour previous was unknown but here she waltzed into the Great Hall sporting a rather wildly patterned orange robe that clashed enormously with the teal coloured trousers and purple pointed hat atop her head. Being fashionable had never been her strong point but she sure did know how to unintentionally make a statement.

“Greetings fellow educators” she practically sang as she slipped her way along the back of the table to take her assigned seat between Ean and Amelia ready and prepared for the students to arrive. That was until out of the corner of her eye she spotted a spider that was suspiciously dangling from the brim of her hat, its beady little eyes staring back at her ominously. “Oh dear, I had to pull this out from the back of my wardrobe. I haven’t had many occasions to wear such fanciful wares so it’s apparent my little friend here decided to move on in.” It was a rather splendiferous hat if she did say so herself. She carefully placed the spider down on the cobblestone floor watching it scurry away towards the Hufflepuff table.

Be free, hairy one.

Tapio had arrived to Hogwarts for the new term early--he had wanted some time to get organized in his new quarters out in the Groundskeeper's hut, to move his cabin office over from the greenhouses to its new resting place right next to the cabin, and, last but not least, to see about planning and arranging a new garden out on the grounds. He was quite excited about that and hoped the students and staff would enjoy it.

But, tired as he was from a not-very-relaxing summer, he was in a good mood--he and Isla had gotten their younger son straightened out and squared away back in university where he was knuckling down to work on becoming a creature healer someday. Isla was over the moon that he had chosen to go into her profession, though Tapio suspected it had more to do with the young lady he had gotten acquainted with during the last month of the holidays. No matter, Tapio didn't really care what he did, as long as it was honest and made him happy. The large Herbology instructor was just glad that his son was now doing something constructive, and had gotten away from those less-than-desirable friends that had been influencing him in the wrong direction (it probably hadn't hurt for them to have had a talking to from a very large, displeased father, but at any rate, they had disappeared).

Walking in, Tapio was struck again by the new faces in the Hall. This would make things different and exciting this year, no doubt. He nodded to the flying instructor as he made his way to his seat next to Ean, to whom he nodded, and then leaned across to greet two of his newer colleagues. "Good evening, Amelia, good to see again. Good evening, Apollonia, here's hoping for another good year for the badgers, eh?" Tapio looked back at the other end of the table to see who was there or arriving, then settled back in his seat and looked out over the Hufflepuff table, eager to see his charges again (and also making sure there was nothing untoward going on).

Ean couldn't believe how the years had passed, with his godson, Jansher now being old enough to attend. He would be keeping his eye out for him in the line of other incoming first years, whenever they do arrive. Wouldn't it be something if he ended up sorted into Gryffindor? But he would be fine whatever house they sorted themselves in.

As soon as Ean arrived at his seat joining the others, "Evening Tapio, you had a decent summer?" Feirgrund's summer was decent as always, with the changes and now here he was ready to greet the new changes in numbers and staffing. "Hello Apollonia.. what a splendid hat there," He watched curiously at where the little spider was roaming away to. Hopefully, the young badgers would be too busy to notice it. "Amelia, how's it feel to be back on this side?" He was familiar with her previous time here. It was already something returning to teach at the school you once attended as a student.

Hm? Was that the sound of doors opening for the incoming students? He took a sip of his goblet while basking in the sights of the hall.

When she had glanced at the time while getting ready for the evening, Celeste was glad that she had made sure not to work on the library at all today for surely she would have been distracted. The added responsibility of being in charge of all those beloved tomes was enough to get lost in. No need to repeat last term’s end of the term feast and her running late for everything. And so, she arrived to the Great Hall with plenty of time, and with no need to have flown half way. The energy and excitement in the grand room as she entered was easily infectious to the astronomy professor and she couldn’t help the smile that graced her aged face.

Ah yes…the joys of being a student.

One glance along the table had Celeste noticing it was a touch uneven with the professors present seated all on one end. Made her a touch grateful she had approached from that side so she hadn’t had to call over to them. There was Tapio and Ean who had returned with her as well as the new women representing History of Magic and Potions. A small pang of sadness existed that the younger man who she had known through her husband before they had worked together was no longer on staff. Nevertheless, she didn’t let it show.

“Guid evening,” she greeted as she stepped up to join them. Her brogue bright in her tone as she smiled at each of them. “I don’t know…” she mused as she crossed behind the group, having heard Tapio’s remark about his house. “Perhaps the lions might have a bit of luck this term.” All in good friendly competition.

Dhruv made their way to the staff table a little later than they usually would when it came to Feasts. There was no particular reason for this but they did make it there in good time. “Hello, everyone. Here’s to a spectacular term for us all,’’ Dhruv greeted warmly. They immediately noted that Roulan and Hady were not there as yet but Ean was. Their friend got an extra bright smile before they slipped into their usual spot beside the Headmaster’s chair. They were still thinking about Ean’s new position as Gryffindor Head of House and what a great choice that had been made with regard to that decision.

The DADA professor settled into their seat, eyes wandering in the direction of the Entrance Hall. They were anticipating two new faces in particular: Hady’s youngest, and their friend’s -Aditya’s - youngest. Unless they were mistaken, the smallest Paton and Atreyu-Rehman were actually best friends. What an amazing coincidence.

Had Apollonia’s attention not been on watching her eight legged friend migrate it’s way over to the Hufflepuff table, she might’ve heard Tapio’s approach and the over-the-top clutching of her heart in response to being thrown off guard might not have been necessary. To be honest it wasn’t necessary regardless but Apollonia couldn’t go a day without bringing a touch of the theatrical. “As long as the little Moonbeams do their best I will be tickety-boo,” she beamed at the gentle giant. That meant students from every house even if her own affiliations were associated with the Hufflepuffs.

Her table neighbour Ean came along quickly and complimented her head attire which had been a last second addition, hence the added arthropod adorning its brim. “Oh thank you. I wore it in honour of our leathered old friend” She nodded in the direction of the Sorting Hat, the point of her hat bobbing with the movement. Even headgear needed the companionship of their own kind even if Apollonia’s wasn’t anthropomorphic like the Sorting Hat was.. yet anyway. Perhaps that could be something she could work on over the proceeding term. The thought of her beloved hat growing little legs and tottering around the school brought great amusement to her face.

Celeste and Dhruv both received a welcoming grin from the Professor. “Doesn’t it look like a splendiferous evening?” She remarked towards them both.

Now where did that spider go..?

OH DEAR. Judging by the commotion at the Hufflepuff table it had made its presence known amongst the students. There was no need for the dramatics Child, it was hardly going to hurt you.

Wilber could not help be in a jolly mood. You might even say his mood was more jovial than usual. “My dears!’’ He approached the staff table with thoughts of laying eyes on his adopted grandchildren, also known as the entire Hogwarts student population, filled in his head. “What a lovely evening this is going to be!” Beaming as he had never beamed before, Wilber took his place at the table. In the process his clumsiness led him to knocking over Septima’s goblet. “Forgive me, my dear.’’ Wilber righted the goblet but as he shifted to his left, whacked Dhruv’s arm with an elbow. “Apologies, Dhruv. An already old man seemed to be getting clumsier with each passing day.” His eyes twinkled.

Said twinkling eyes were soon occupied with observing his beloved students file into the Hall. Before he knew it, the chaos was commencing. It rather started at the Hufflepuff table. “Surely, Apollonia, your little eight legged friend is trying to befriend another. Not to aid in causing such fanfare?” There was humor in his voice but trusted that Tapio would intervene if need be.

Amelia had to admit that Apollonia's outfit sure had a way to put a smile on her face. Perhaps there was some unwritten code that History of Magic Professors needed to be eccentric, as she recalled fondly of her own History professor, Angelica Lainey .. When the woman beside her though brushed the spider from her hat and let it scurry towards the house table. "Oh had I known you were in need of fancy attire, you're welcome to one of my garments. Arachnoid free." She bit her lip. "Although the robes you found are quite spectacular indeed."

For a moment Amelia was struck by the 'again' but alas they had been meeting for the last few weeks so she was fairly familiar with the team. "Always a pleasure, Tapio. I'll toast to that one." She grinned raising her glass about a good year for the badgers. So the former hufflepuff staff members were grouped together, huh?

She noted Ean's arrival with a nod, familiar with him having taking over for her as a healer (although not directly after as there were several in between). "Slightly surreal, Ean. Although I admit it's nice to have my classroom be located indoors even if it's rather dark." Fortunately she brightened it up some or she'd never be able to survive. "The hospital wing looks good. Should you ever become overwhelmed with injuries or illnesses, I'm not far away."

Speaking of far away, she gave a nod down to Dhruv and Celeste on the other end of the table, but her attention was drawn to the sorting, when Emmeline Vance had taken a seat. And a moment later was .... running out of the great hall??

"If you'll excuse me." Amelia stood from her seat to follow the young first year from the Hall.

It surely was unfair for Ean to be seated far from all of his friendly colleagues, but he made sure to return each greeting, and the usual grip on Dhruv's shoulder.

"Now, that is a fine and fashionable gesture, Apollonia," Ean nodded approvingly. He should do that next time, though he would have to make sure he picked up some hat-hair repellent gel for his hair. Hats did not suit his hair naturally without leaving a humorous shape afterward. Through his eyes he could see the badgers were... lively with the new guest. He turned to see Tapio's reaction as jovial Wilber hinted.

"Thank you Amelia, I will make note of that and happily take you up on the offer should the opportunity rise," Ean replied. Healers code of honor. It was especially handy with her as the Potions professor. Restocking his potions cupboard will be even easier this term now.

As for the term.. well. Ean's mood seemed to be threatened to shift as he watched the students be sorted. Counting down the number of students before his godson, Grunt, Jansher. He waited to hear those words... But his ears weren't able to hear that when the student before him did an unspeakable act to the Sorting Hat. "Well... if you'll briefly excuse me a moment," Ean gestured his seat companions as he took a quick breath before getting up to head towards the Lion's table.

Apollonia herself wouldn’t regard herself as eccentric although it wouldn’t be an unfair assessment of her character if others did. The concept that History of Magic Professors tended to have a theatrical flair was likely coincidental for she had met many an individual in her historical research days whose stern and serious mannerisms did not compute with her personality. “That’s quite alright, it’ll give me an excuse to dust off my old dress robes,” she smiled at Amelia. These students had best be prepared for an oddly patterned robe and brightly coloured trouser combination for every lesson. Should anyone judge her for her fashion sense, the opinion would likely fly straight over her head.

Yes, Apollonia quite agreed with Ean there. “Why thank you. We can’t have our esteemed treasure feeling left out now can we?” The Sorting Hat was older and wiser than any of them were and therefore as much of a part of the Hogwarts faculty as the Professors.

The Headmaster's arrival was met with a quick tip of the hat. “I don’t think her intention was to cause hysteria amongst the Hufflepuffs” she chortled. Poor little mite was just trying to find a new home amongst the uniforms. Nothing quite as exciting as her own eccentric wardrobe but nestling into an unsuspecting first year's pocket would likely be sufficient. They need not be concerned however as a spritely little Puffle scooped up the arachnid before another child could use the benches as a perch.

Merlin’s Hairy Gray Beard!

What an absolute raucous this feast had turned into. In the midst of temper tantrums and tears were the beaming faces of little ones who were pleased with whichever house they were sorted into and who sauntered to their respective tables. As they should for no house was better than the other at Hogwarts and equal opportunity was given to each. Apollonia herself could empathise with the need to be overly dramatic when it came to first impressions however this was still school and therefore some level of professionalism should be maintained. Her fellow seat neighbours both left to ‘deal’ with differing situations so the Professor was temporarily left alone to enjoy the festivities before the Headmaster made his speech.

Perhaps she should engage all the students in a little sing-song and encourage some school spirit? Or she had a whole long list of trust exercises they could do. Maybe a quick game of Zip, Zap, Zop?

Hogwarts was FUN, little Billywigs!

Apollonia’s description of the evening made Dhruv grin. “I like that word,’’ they told their new colleague. “Don’t mind me if I steal it at some point. To answer our question, yes, it definitely seems like it will be. Tomorrow’s a big day for you. Looking forward to it?” Dhruv sincerely hoped Wilber had no dad jokes. Things had not improved for them in the way of them immediately understanding said jokes. While there were no jokes, there was some degree of the usual clumsiness which included them being hit in the arm. “No worries, no worries.” As long as the Headmaster didn’t knock over the musical instruments during Orchestra time, everything was fine. “Afraid of spiders?” they continued conversationally.

Like Ameila, Dhruv continued to focus on the Sorting. There seemed to be dramatics occurring there as well, not just at the Hufflepuff table. The Hat being tossed was quite a shocker, a student refusing to accept her Sorting results… in the midst of it all, Dhruv couldn’t help but appreciate that Adi’s son had made it to Slytherin, and that the House seemed to be having a good amount of new students this year.

They had given Ean the traditional hand squeeze in response to the shoulder one. Before they knew it, Ean was on his first disciplinary mission as Gryffindor Head of House. In their mind, a detention was surely in store for young Ms. Grimaldi.

Another term at Hogwarts had come, and Norman was ready for it. What was this, his ninth term here? Or his tenth? Merlin, how time flies! After a thorough check of Ravenclaw Tower to make sure it was ready for the incoming students, he made his way to the Great Hall to find many of his colleagues had already arrived. One of the disadvantages of coming all the way from the seventh floor…

“Good evening, all,” he greeted everyone as he took his usual seat at the far end of the table, nodding politely to each person in turn. With the pleasantries out of the way, he turned his attention to the sorting, and goodness, what a sorting it was! He counted no less than three students upset about their new houses, among them one of his new Ravenclaws. Before he could react, Amelia had already gone after the girl, for which he was secretly grateful. Emotions and dramatics were not his forte! Emmeline Vance… he committed the name to memory. Perhaps he could show MIss Vance how much fun Ravenclaw could be.

Norman’s discerning bluish-green eyes swept the room, taking in the drama all around. There was Ean at the Gryffindor table, dealing with the girl who threw the hat, and some Hufflepuffs screaming over a spider. He looked to the Ravenclaw table, which thankfully appeared to be calm. Let’s hope that lasts, he thought. Merlin, the last time he saw a feast this dramatic was the year the Neo Alliance took over the school!

Seeking a distraction from the drama, he turned to his nearest neighbor who wasn’t dealing with an upset student (Apollonia). “Looks like we’re in for an exciting term, if this sorting is any indication,” he said. “How are you settling in so far?”

“Hallo, Norman.’’ Norman received a jovial smile on his way to his seat. After that, Wilber simply observed as two members of his staff departed from the table to handle certain situations. Those students were in more than capable hands. He too chuckled at Apollonia’s remark. “Things seemed to be under control with the young ones there, thankfully. I wonder. Are these premonitions about what awaits us for the academic year?’’ This was something to think about, my dears. “Oh, not at all, Dhruv. Not at all. I may be the only one to find it fascinating the way they scuttle along on their eight legs.”

The slight rumble and tumble of his stomach reminded dear old Wilber that the time had arrived for his third Start of the Term Feast! Dear me! Didn’t time zoom by when fun was in the midst? “Excuse me, dear professors. I must give the speech so that we may indulge in our feast.” Now that everyone was once more settled, Wilber climbed to his feet and spread his arms wide as he beamed around at the faces before him. “Good evening, fine youths! Your professors and I warmly welcome you to Hogwarts, whether you are returning for another term or you are only just starting your journey with us!” Here, Wilber paused for a break and to lower his arms.

“Before we fill our stomach with the deliciousness prepared by our hardworking house elves, I have a few announcements. Please join me in welcoming Professor Roulan Liu who will be taking up Charms, Professor Apollonia Fergersnout, who will be filling your young heads with History of Magic and Professor Amelia Adara who has taken over Potions.” Wilber brought his hands together to applaud the new faces in turn. “In addition, we have a few other staff shifts you all should be aware of. Professor Gert has agreed to be the keeper of Hogwarts’ fine collection of books as our librarian and Professor DeVries will be responsible for keeping our grounds in tip-top shape as our Groundskeeper. Finally, please join me in congratulating Professors Feirgrund as and Paton as Gryffindor and Slytherin Heads of House respectively.” There was more applause on his part.

“A few reminders to tickle your minds and impulses as well. The Forbidden Forest is, as the name suggests, forbidden. Students are heavily warned to resist any temptation they may have to sneak in or face the consequences.” There was a twinkle in his eyes as he made this statement. “Signups for extracurricular activities will commence tomorrow. A comprehensive list of the information regarding the professors in charge of what and requirements for entry to each shall be posted on the bulletin board as well as the notice boards in each common room by the time you all rise with the morning shine tomorrow.”

Wilber paused. Was that it? He thought so. Her certainly HOPED so. “Enough rambling on my part for it is time for us to eat after the long wait. Tomorrow, an exciting start to the new school year awaits!’’ Wilber sat down smartly and in an instant the dishes in the Hall were magically filled with rich foods.

Tapio had his mouth half open to respond to his various colleagues' greetings, but his attention was distracted by a disturbance going on at the Hufflepuff table. From one or two of the yelps he'd overheard, it appeared to be caused by a spider. He was just on the verge of getting up and seeing if he could slip over there to investigate before the headmaster's speech, but before he could get to his feet, he heard Headmaster Winterbottom's voice and settled himself back again. He found himself a bit impatient during the start of term announcements, though he was glad to hear himself named out lout as the new groundskeeper. That had been decided months ago, of course, but all the same, hearing it spoken officially made it seem real and final.

Finally the speech was over and the feast was beginning, and he was able to rise and expertly maneuver himself out from the head table. "If you will please excuse me a moment..." he murmured to the table in general as he headed over to the Hufflepuff Table.

Hadleigh had arrived at the staff dais shortly before the Headmaster had. There was never a time where she had missed a sorting and she didn't plan on ever doing so. Most definitely not this year. Her youngest child was going to be sorted tonight along with another child that was very near and dear to her heart and very much like family to her. So please excuse her if all her focus was on that when it began.

In the meantime a pleasant greeting was given to all of her fellow colleagues. Everyone was doing well, yes? All had a decent summer break? Ready to be back and fill all the students' heads with knowledge? She most certainly was, even if she was saddened by the fact of knowing her husband was home all alone this year now that all of their children and herself were here at Hogwarts.

Once the sorting began, Hady's hazel eyes zoned right in on a couple of faces and she couldn't help but stifle a laugh at her youngest. She wasn't at all surprised that Bryony couldn't remain still. Now when the kids were placed into her former house of Slytherin, she couldn't help but feel rather proud. Now she could really look after them, seeing as to how she was also their Head of House.

She continued to watch as students were sorted and how badly a couple of them seemed to accept their fate. This happened from time to time but normally the reactions weren't like this. Nor was the commotion at the Hufflepuff table about a spider. Both of which were being handled. Way to be on a roll this evening Professors.

Hady smiled softly all throughout the speech, giving a small nod of her head as she was mentioned as the Slytherin Head of House. She would miss the Gryffindors she had gotten to know over the last few terms but they were all welcome to come to her if they needed anything, as were all the other students.

Taking a sip of water, Hady set her goblet down on the table. "Please excuse me everyone. I'll be right back." Rising to her feet she made her way to the Slytherin table so she could properly introduce herself to them all.

Roulan had quietly made her way to her seat as the Headmaster gave his speech - just in time to be able to give a warm smile towards all the new inquiring minds she would be able to assist in enriching as he introduced her. She joined in the applause for Apollonia and Amelia as well, before it was time to eat and the food was being filled on the tables. She knew she was a little on the late end, which was a terrible impression to have made - which she had so hoping to make a good one, even going so far as to take a potion for her limp and leaving her cane behind for the evening. But this start of term feast certainly had many events to behold. Between the sorting class having produced some very upset children, a spider causing some havoc for the poor Badgers and she believed she'd seen a fair amount of tears and even a panic attack from one of the poor incoming students. She'd been observing the events which had caused her tardiness but all seemed under control now by the established Professors - namely the Heads of Houses.

With food now in front of her, the new Charms Professor heaped her plate full of mashed potatoes, meat and carrots, before her attention turned towards Dhruv who still remained seated with her - Hady having now excused herself to check on her sweet snakes. "Is the beginning of the term always this rambunctious?" Unlike majority of her peers, or so she assumed, this post was Roulan's first time at Hogwarts. Her own education had been pursued at Castelobruxo.

Turning her attention then also towards the other seated Staff, Wilbur, Norman and Apollonia, she offered them all warm smiles as well with her greeting. "Good evening all. If tonight is any indication, I believe we shall have quite the busy term." Not that she minded. Being busy was good - she just hoped the poor dears that were currently so distraught could be calmed by their Heads of Houses and begin to look forward to the coming days.

Ean eventually returned back to his seating just in time for the speech and the food arriving. Though his appetite had diminished. First day as Head of House and already having to take points but from his own house. Was not fun at all. But he raised his goblet in gesture of the speech and at least have a small place for some substance to take away the little knot.

Their side of table was having an unexpected game of musical chairs with the visits to the house tables. His eyes meeting Norman's, "What a start to the year, how are you this evening, Norman?" If this was any indication for the rest of the term, this'll be a ride.

Having relocated Charlie the Bewildered into a nice sheltered spot inside a gardening shed, Tapio had made his way back into the Great Hall and up to the staff dais and was edging his way along the table to his seat. He smiled sheepishly to the staff members still there--where was everyone? Apparently he wasn't the only teacher to have to leave their place to solve a problem tonight. "Spider," he murmured as he took his seat again. "All sorted now, I think." And then, finally, he turned his attention to his dinner (which was by now a little less than hot--he was glad he'd chosen the roast chicken, which was good hot, cold, or anything in between).

After dropping Emmeline off at the Ravenclaw table, Amelia continued back to her seat at the staff dais, grateful that there was still food there. She wouldn't need to ask the house elves for any feast favors after all it seemed.

"Sorry about that. But yes should be quite the year it seems." She turned to Norman. "Bonus niece, apparently didn't want Ravenclaw," she offered by way of explanation for which student she ran after. She would explain in further details if they asked. Since she knew Emmeline personally before tonight she felt compelled to console her. "Did I miss the joke of the evening?" She had heard of Wilber's infamous dad jokes.

“Hello…” Celeste greeted Dhruv as she took her seat and they joined the table. Yay for another on her end of the dais. No offense to the colleagues on the other end of course. “I hope so,” she remarked to both the defense professor and Apollonia at their remarks. Spectacular and splendiferous would be good adjectives to wish for the upcoming term. And lovely too as Wilber added himself to the fray. “Good evening,” she greeted the headmaster, trying not to chuckle as he has a bought of the clumsies, covering up by taking a drink from her water goblet. “Good evening,” she echoed in response to Norman.

However, soon enough she was distracted by the beginning of the sorting ceremonies. Celeste clapped for everyone regardless of house, despite her earlier support of her former house. It seemed to be going well until one of the newest Ravenclaws took off at a run for the entrance hall, Amelia moving to follow seemingly to help the situation. Poor girl…no doubt nerves or overwhelming emotions on this the first day in a new situation. But then there was another more dramatic reaction to a child being sorted…the young-in dashing the Sorting Hat to the floor and taking off. A new lion.

Perhaps she had spoken to soon about the house.

Ean too moved from the staff table to take care of the drama. What a way to start his role as new head of house. What a way to start the term! It was a relief to see Wilber stand up to speak, the woman clapping once more as the new staff was introduced and trying not to be self-conscious of mention of her own change. Before too long, the tables were filled will all the usual deliciousness. Perhaps yummy food after a long day will sooth the excitable students.

"Thankfully no," she remarked to Roulan's question from beside her as she added food to her own plate. "I suppose sometimes you need to keep things interesting."