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 Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 11:50 am
The halls of Hogwarts were deathly quiet that first night, almost ominously so as if the ancient stone walls were crying out a warning to those who should be asleep.. Students from first year to seventh slept quietly in their dorms, teachers and school staff doing the same or preparing for the coming year in their own quarters or offices. Only a few adults were about, spread thinly about the school. The many statues and empty suits of armor stood at attention, ready to defend the school on a moments notice if any harm ever befell the school. Black lifeless slits on metallic visors seemed to watch the halls and stone cold eyes of statues did likewise as Elsie moved about the quiet school, unaware of the presence of others who may be awake at such an early hour. Students knew not to roam the halls after hours, even in the morning hours unless they had prior permission and no teacher thought students dense enough to sneak about already on the first day so hall monitors had been kept to a bare minimum.
The magical illusion of the great hall continued to portray an enchanting night sky. Large moon cast its silvery light upon tiled floor as an endless amount of stars speckled the ceiling. Comets streaked across the great hall, appearing and vanishing in the blink of an eye. The large tables used the evening before for the great feast had all been removed and the room left barren and empty with the exception of the podium that sat mounted to the front of the room. The same podium the headmaster stood at and spoke warnings and consequences to students who entertained thoughts of leaving their House rooms after curfew. Minutes seemed to blend into each other as time passed and Elsie, who seemed too absorbed into her book, didn't seem to take notice of the oncoming sounds of footsteps as Professor Nicholais entered the great hall. It wasn't until his shadow loomed over her, blocking out the moonlight that he finally announced his presence. "First night in school and your already looking to deduct points from house Ravenclaw I see?"
The professor had seen to his appearance and looked far more refreshed and composed than he did on the train the day before. His robes smooth and without creases and the same careful attention had been directed towards the white buttoned up shirt and dark gray vest worn over. His tie had been done neatly and tucked between vest and shirt and even his shoes reflected moonlight from the polishing they had been given. It had been a very long time since he had looked so presentable, but was sure not to last too long. His hair was still a shaggy mess as it fell around his face which was covered in stubble and lacked a good clean shave. There was only so much he could do for his image... or so much he would do for it. Nicholais slipped his wand out from his robe and without speaking brought fourth a much brighter light than the one Elsie was using.
"You should be thankful I was the one who found you here.. He announced, aware of a couple others who may be patrolling the hallways to look for stranglers in the night. He would have much preferred to be in his cabin outside the school on the grounds but Headmaster Dippit had asked it of him to stay watch tonight and patrol. Keeping late hours was very much normal for him though, so fatigue hadn't been an issue.
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Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 3:16 pm
Elsie was excited about living in this castle for a good chunk of the next seven years. As she passed the moving paintings, she was realizing they were almost acting alive. She would have to get used to all these magical items. The world of magic was wonderful. She loved how quiet things were at this hour, and she was curious as to why people could not be out of the dorms this early. It seemed to be a silly rule. Maybe she could read under the stars more often, she would just have to find the perfect spot to read. If she spotted anyone, she would have to sneak back; maybe even travel further up. There had to be a place to see the stars.
Glancing up at the stars every page turn, Elsie was in awe of nature, and the spell on the ceiling, one that was showing her the sky above. She was trying to memorize the pictures of the plants, and the names so that she would not seem like such a failure. Though deep down she suspected she would struggle in that class. She was curiously reading about the Hyena tree when the moonlight was blocked by a shadow. She squeaked and scrambled away as she dropped her book and wand in a panic. "Sorry! I was just reading and the sky was just so pretty and.... ....... wait... Markelm?" She started to say, trying to explain, then she realized she knew that voice. She sighed, visibly relaxing as she sat on her knees. Placing her hand over her heart she took a few calming breaths as she glanced up at him. She made a face and leaned forward to get her book and wand. She muttered an apology to the wand as she stood and smoothed her skirt. "You scared me!" She said as she crossed her arms. She squinted at the sudden bright light and shielded her face with her book, her wand still in her hand as she realized it was not glowing anymore.
She had the sense to look ashamed as he spoke, she was not expecting to get in trouble.Not really. She just wanted to see the stars as she read. Blushing, she hung her head while she said, "I just wanted to see the stars... I did not see the harm... I'm sorry..." She then adjusted to the light and glanced at him. He looked... different. She giggled then quickly coughed as she cleared her throat. Ok, this is bad... She thought and remembered the times she had gotten in trouble before. Maybe I can reason with him.... she thought then said, "Ummmm... so why are you here?"" She put her hands behind her back as she leaned on the heels of her feet, unsure if she were in trouble or not.
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Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 9:11 pm
A wolfish grin appeared on his face at her reaction to him sneaking up on her. Well, not exactly sneaking, but she seemed so absorbed in.. A Herbology textbook.. that she didn’t hear him slip up on her. He waited for her to regain her composure, casting a glance up at the enchanted ceiling and admiring its magic for a moment as she scrambled for her wand and her book. ”You shouldn’t be outside the Ravenclaw common room. And from this point on you’ll address me as Professor Nicholais.” He started with authority in his voice. Being a professor was new to the man, but he knew that if wanted to command the respect of the students he needed to establish his presence as a proper professor very quickly, especially since he was taking over a class of third years and up returning to the school with a new headmaster. No doubt there would be a handful of students who would try to take advantage of all the recent staffing changes. Markelm wasn’t sure how long he could play at being a proper professor but it wouldn’t hurt to make a good first impression.
”As enchanting as the great hall, and rest of Hogwarts can be, you should still have stayed in bed. You may not see the harm in it, but this school holds many a mystery and dangers and it wouldn’t do for a student to get lost or injured so early in the year, yes? S to why I’m here? I drew patrol duty. Well, not exactly drew it so much as volunteered. These halls are as new to me as they are to you so I thought I’d use the task of patrolling as a chance to familiarize myself with the schools layout.” Markelm paused for a moment as he thought he heard faint footsteps outside the great hall, but as he strained to hear no other sounds came to him. ”I’m afraid I’ll have to deduct five points from Ravenclaw.” He inwardly cringed as he informed her of the penalty to her house in the race for the house cup. Off in the distance the glass House Point cylinders that held the points tinged and shifted as five sapphire vanished. Markelm hadn’t wanted to do any point reducing so early, but if other students or teachers had learned that Elsie was in the halls after hours on the first night then they would have expected some kind of punishment or accuse the man of playing favorites and being lenient on the girl he had raised for the larger part of the last decade.
”I’ll escort you back to your commons room, but first we need to swing by the grounds keepers cottage, where I’m staying.” Markelm spun around, his long dark teachers robe bellowing out from behind him as he strode from the great hall, not pausing or slowing and forcing Elsie to keep pace with him. ”I see you got your school supplies. I hope everything fits, and as for that wand.” He paused as he pointed his own wand at the one in your hand. ”Didn’t have time to get you properly fitted for a wand. So if that one doesn’t take to you, just let me know and I’ll request a short leave to take you to Diagon Alley.” They had reached the large wooden doors to Hogwarts and a flick of Markelms wand opened the doors to much creaking and a blast of chilly early morning air. Dew had already began to settle on the large lawn of Hogwarts as Markelm began to lead Elsie across green grass towards a small hut off in the distance. At first he was disinclined to staying in the grounds keepers building, but having gotten settled in he thought he might enjoy the privacy. The interior needed some remodeling, but the could make the building suit his taste just fine. Markelm kept quiet as they cut through the crisp air, giving Elsie a chance to ask questions or speak if she so wished.
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Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 10:18 pm
Elsie blinked, somewhat hurt by how distant he acted towards her. She had been calling him Markelm ever since she could remember. Was he really that mad at her? Thoughts of a teasing prank was long gone from her mind now, and she just wanted to see him smile at her again. Tears started to well in her eyes as she accepted his scolding; listening to him speak. He was right after all, she never thought of the dangers this school held, only the wonder. When he deducted five points from her house, her chin quivered as she forced herself from crying. She slowly nodded and lost all pep in her step as she followed after him silently.
Elsie slowly exhaled as she followed close behind him; with his back now to her, she felt more at ease, instead of being at risk of being scolded again. Being reminded of her items, she slowly smiled; though her cheer she had earlier was gone. "I was going to write you a thank you letter, for the items. They seem to fit fine." She softly said, trying to hide her disappointment in herself. She was now considering the windows in the Ravenclaw wing. Maybe there was a place to read there. She had only wanted to see the stars and the ceiling once more. Now, she caused a mess for her whole house. She hoped no one would know where the missing points came from. She had showed up at the school on the first day without her robes, and now cost her house five points. Sighing deeply she then inhaled and the crisp air which calmed her. Clearing her thoughts. As if a weight was lifted form her. Ah to be young again and to just bounce back like that. Elsie then remembered Markelm had mentioned the wand, and she said "I don't know enough about this wand's personality to say if we will get along or not. Do you know much about wand's? I was told by my new friend that they have a soul of their own. Are there any ways to like, I don't know... figure out if we get along? And Why did you not tell me more of this stuff? I feel like a muggle here... I have so much to learn.... You did not even tell me you were going to be a teacher here..." She shivered slightly as her feet got wet from the dew; the cool air chilling her wet feet. She was not expecting to exit the school or she would have warn a sweater at least. "So you are the groundskeeper? What does that mean?" She asked as she looked around. She eyed the small hut they were nearing, and she was curious to see what was inside. She hoped there would be a fire to warm up near. She was starting to get cold.
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Posted: Sun Sep 14, 2014 11:07 pm
Markelm found it hard to comfort the young girl as her chin quivered. Being a strict disciplinarian wasn’t something he was used to, always being a lax and often irresponsible guardian figure in her life. But he set his mouth in a stern line as he turned to strode from the room.
”You can thank me by not getting into more trouble.” he remarked as they strode across the yard. Keeping his wand out and pointed up, it shone enough light to light the path as they walked. He was the wand seemed to be taking to its master, the fact that she could use the lumos spell was proof of that alone. At the mention of wand knowledge he just shrugged and shook his messy black hair. ”The only people who know the secrets about wands are the wands, and the wand makers. And in truth, I’m not even sure wand makers know half as much as they say they do. Wand crafting is one of those magical subjects shrouded in mystery. But as long as the wand works, and doesn’t go haywire its safe to assume you will get along with it. Did it spark the first time you touched it? That’s usually a good sign. When Elsie had asked about why he hadn’t mentioned more stuff about the wizarding world in the past he went silent, their steps taking them closer to the small cabin out on the grounds. Judging from the glow in the windows it appeared the fire he had set earlier still burned and was keeping the cabin warm. When he reached the door he turned abruptly and ruffled her hair, making a mess of it but showing the first sign of affection towards her after coming to Hogwarts. He knelt down to look her in the eyes. ”There are things I’m just not allowed to talk about. Sooner or later I’m sure you’ll learn answers to all the questions I know you have floating around in your head. But I’m not the one to answer them. Now lets get out of this cold.” Markelm put his hands on his knees and pushed himself back up, pulling a key out of his pocket and unlocking the cabin door. He opened the door and ushered her inside while answering her question regarding being a groundskeeper. ”It means its my job to keep students out of the forbidden forest, and to keep things in the forbidden forest out of Hogwarts. To attend to magical beast, to move things in and out of the school and do whatever else Headmaster Dippit asks of me. And speaking of beasts, I’ve got one in here for you.” Before he could finish the sentence a black and gray ferret, whom he could swear was in a cage when he left earlier, skittered quickly across the floor, leaped up onto Elsie’s robe and wound its way up and around her body and onto her shoulder, chirping madly at Markelm once it had taken over its new perch. Markelm chuckled and ran his hand nervously through his hair. ”I guess I forgot to feed him earlier. Anyway, he’s your burden now. I haven’t named him, so that job I leave up to you.”
He gave her a moment to get acquainted with her new pet as he closed the door the ward out the cold. The room was barren still, only furnished with a rather lumpy bed, a large oak table and a couple of chairs. Several shelves had been fashioned to the walls and filled with heavy wooden or clay plates and mugs. Several trunks that were yet unpacked were pushed up against a wall and the table was cluttered with paper work and scrolls. Markelm nonchalantly moved to the table to grab, stack and put the papers face down then taking a seat. "You can call me whatever you want while were in here and alone, but outside these small walls I need you to refer to me as Professor." The rigid professionalism melted out of him as he slouched int he chair and began to loosen up the robes and his tie, kicking off his shoes and letting them fall unceremoniously to the floor. "I didn't mean to upset you earlier, but as a teacher I've got to uphold certain standards now and it wouldn't do neither of us any good if people accuse me of playing favorites. So I hope you understand that when I'm outside these walls, I've got to be a different person than you're used to.
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Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 12:28 am
Elsie had not seen him look this upset before, though she had crossed some lines and gotten a scolding a few times in her life; she was near tears with this. He really seemed mad. She was unsure what to say or do to fix things. As if knowing her inner struggle; his words helped her unease. "I'll try. Though it was not like I was looking for trouble... I am still sorry Mar... I mean... Professor Nicholais."She said, and she swallowed the lump in her throat as she felt more tears near. As he spoke about wands, Elsie glanced at hers. What secrets do you hold? She wondered and she glanced up saying, "I was so startled when it sparked, I did not know what to expect... Twice now I dropped it today. Poor wand... Do they go haywire if they are dropped a lot?" She said realizing that she was not being a good owner, getting a little worried about that.
Once they reached the cabin, her hair was mussed as he affectionately ruffled the hair into a mess, she wrinkled her nose at him making a face; but grinned anyway, unable to hide her smile. She studied his face as he knelt to her level, trying to explain that he could not answer one of the most important questions she had asked; why he kept her in the dark about so many things. Confusion showed on her face; why was it a secret? Why was he not allowed to tell her? When he stood; she had so many questions buzzing around; but a breeze caused her to shiver once more and she quickly went inside.
The warmth enveloped her as she still shivered, trying to warm herself with her hands; rubbing them against her arms. It would seem fall was here already; it was a bit warmer in England. Elsie glanced at Markelm as she grew curious about the forbidden forest. "What kind of creatures are in the forest? Is it really that dangerous? How big is the forest? How can you tell if something enters or exits the forest?" She started to ask when he started listing off more of his job, dealing with beasts and being a gofer. Sounds like a huge job! She thought, impressed then she was startled when the ferret hopped onto her robe; though she giggled and watched it climb up as it found its way to her shoulder. She had to laugh at the scolding the ferret gave to Markelm. "Well, hello." She said with a grin and she realized this ferret was now hers. She grew excited, clasping her hands together as she forced herself to not jump; the ferret would not like that. "Really???!!!" She asked while she gently picked the ferret off her shoulder and she held the ferret in front of her; the ferret leaned forward and tickled her nose with its whiskers. Elsie giggled again and she gently hugged the creature; letting it climb back to her shoulder. Her mood was greatly lightened by her new friend, and she thought this little ferret was a pip. "I think her name should be Pyxis. What do you think Pyx? She asked the ferret, having noticed the animal was a girl when she was held earlier. The ferret nosed Elsie's cheek, her whiskers tickling the girl once more and Elsie giggled. "Pyxis it is then." Elsie said and she took a seat at the table; Pyx climbed down and sat on Elsie's lap then curled up.
When Markelm made sure to hide the papers on the table, Elsie was curious about them, wishing she had looked at them before he came over. She watched Markelm as he spoke, she was glad to see him act more like himself. She frowned, but nodded. He did upset her, but she could understand why he wanted to be called Professor. Maybe Kyra had to deal with that with her mother; though from what Kyra had said, it seemed her mother was already stern. Elsie paused then she softly asked, "Can I visit you then?" She would have to try her best to remember to call him Professor when she saw him in the school, though at least she now understood why. She looked at her shoes a moment then added, "I hope you don't change too much... You won't be Markelm if you change a lot.... and I like my family the way it is...."
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Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 1:14 am
“I don’t think its going to backfire on you or cease working just because you dropped it a couple times. But do try to take better care of it. Those things came out of my own pocket and these Hogwarts school supply lists aren’t cheap.” He answered, mentally crying at the hit to his gringotts vault. At the door to his cabin he could tell that the answer he gave to her questions didn’t do anything to calm the storm of confusion in her head, but could do nothing else about it as they went inside. He was glad for the ferret, as it gave him a convenient excuse to change topics.
Now that Elsie had met her new pet, and was in a much brighter mood he started answering her questions as best he could. ”Unicorns. Centaur, giants probably. Wolves, Dire Wolves and maybe werewolves. Bugbears for sure and Bowtruckles. Trolls Hippogriffs and who knows what else. All sorts of fauna and magical plants. The Forbidden Forest is a part of Hogwarts but its own separate place at the same time. Even when students and teachers venture into that place, they don’t venture far. Dangerous? Extremely. Has a history of students who’ve gone into and never come back out. And if something leaves the forest, there are enough enchantments and spells that’ll alert us to any dangerous monsters leaving the forest.” In truth, nobody knew what all inhabited the forest and there wasn’t a sane wizard alive that would dare take on the task of documenting everything inside its treacherous dark canopies.
”I wouldn’t make a habit of visiting. I’ll be busy most days, and I don’t want you out after curfew hours to come sneaking across the lawn to visit me. But I don’t think you’ll have to worry about me changing much. I think you’ll just see sides of me your not used to.” He finished answering as he moved another log from a pile by the hearth into the fire. He had just gotten comfortable with his shoes off but realized he needed to get Elsie back into the school as he bend forward and slipped his shoes back on and tied them. He too wondered just how long he’d keep his shoes shiny. At least he had boots and other clothes for mucking around in the forest. ”Probably best get you back to the castle before the sun comes full out.” He stated as he stood up from the chair and went back to the door, opening it and motioning for her to go first. He didn’t want her trying to snoop at any of the documents on the table.
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Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 11:47 am
Elsie nodded and she glanced at the wand once more, before she guiltily smiled as she stated, "I will try." She did not even consider the cost, so she quickly added, "Um, thank you; again. For everything."
Giggling once more as Pyx sniffed the air and looked around; her tail was ticking Elsie's neck. The ferret was adorable, everything about her was just perfect. Pyx then put her tiny paws on Elsie's head; and Elsie turned making a face at the ferret. Pyx arched her back as she scrambled back making a play motion and Elsie raised her arm giving Pyx more room to play. Laughing Elsie liked how playful Pyx was. Hearing the mention of unicorns, Elsie glanced at Markelm as he spoke, telling of the dangers of the forbidden forest. Instead of scaring her, she grew curious. Though a chill went down her spine when he stated there have been students that never came back out. Maybe wanting to explore there was not the best idea... She thought and she let her arm drop as Pyx scrambled down to Elsie's lap. "So, you have many jobs here then? Because you said you are a professor as well. What are you a professor of? I did not see you on my list." Elsie asked, wondering what it would be like to be taught in a classroom by Markelm. He was smart, and always had an answer to everything... except any questions about her past; and why he said so little about the wizard world. She pouted at that a moment then Pyx nipped at her hand lightly, demanding pets. Chuckling; Elsie scratched Pyxis behind the ears then along the slender body. Pyx stretched and curled up again.
Another moment of hurt appeared on Elsie's face when Markelm said how busy he would be. "Oh. I see..." Not sure what else to say. She was unsure if she liked the idea of him showing different sides too. There were other students who were away from home with only letters to keep in contact with their family. Elsie would have to adjust as well it seemed. She scooped Pyx from her lap and cuddled the ferret close as she stood. She smoothed her skirt with one hand then she silently exited the hut; she hesitated just at the door and looked up at Markelm. "Do you have time for letters? I mean... letter writing?" She asked then she quickly looked away embarrassed. She did not want to admit how nervous she was about being here in this strange new school. He was her one constant in her life. Though she would make new friends, she was very nervous about this whole experience. She waited to hear his answer then headed out; once more getting chilled by the cool air. On her way to the school, she started to smooth her bright red hair as she remembered it had gotten messed up; though her hair was being uncooperative. Any other time, Elsie would be looking up at the stars and enjoy the beauty of the night. Right now, her stomach started to grow uneasy as she remembered she lost her house some points; by pure accident of course. Still... if anyone would spot her out of the dorm now, they would know who cost them the points. Oh dear...She thought and she cuddled Pyx against her face. "Think they will be really mad?" She softly asked and the ferret yawned. Ya, I think so too. Elsie thought with a tiny frown.
{fixed : 3}
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Posted: Mon Sep 15, 2014 10:26 pm
Markelm watched quietly for several moments as Elsie played with her new pet, Pyx. They seemed to get along instantly which was good. He felt sorry for students who had to attend the school with animals they didn’t along with. ”I’ll be taking over the Care of Magical Creatures class. It’s a third year elective class so you won’t be having me as a teacher for another couple years if I’m still teaching by then.” Truth be told, he wasn’t sure how long his tenure as a teacher would last. Hopefully for a while but he was just as surprised to be offered the teaching position as many of his fellow colleagues were. He didn’t exactly have a background in teaching but it seemed simple enough.
”You can always try writing letters to me. There’s an owlery and the school keeps many birds on hand for students to send letters off with. Its in the west tower, I believe but if you send a letter out to me that way then its sure to get into my hands weather I’m in the school grounds or not. And I’ll try writing back but my duties will keep me busy so I won’t make any guarantees.” He replied with as much positivity in his voice as he could muster. He hoped Elsie would make enough friends, and soon enough, that she wouldn’t feel lonely. It wouldn’t do well for her to be sneaking off trying to find him about the castles or school grounds. The cold air caused him to tighten his robes as his eyes glanced up at the darkened lightless towers of Hogwarts. Here and there a window or two would be illuminated, but so far the entire school still seemed to be asleep. As he walked he pointed out the Owlery. It wasn’t actually that far from the gameskeeper hut he was staying in and he wouldn’t be surprised that if on her way to send owls, Elsie would try to swing by his hut to visit anyway.”Once were inside the castle, no more talking. I wouldn’t want to bring the attention of Peeves or one of the other ghost or teachers.” He took her a different route to the tower than the one they came down from, a more direct route that walked the two of them past the stone circles and across the long stone bridge that led into the main courtyard and then in through the main entrance gates. Once inside he slipped his wand out once more and sparked light from the end of it as he led her through the hallways towards the west end of the castle, where the long windy steps spiraled up into the Ravenclaw tower. Their passing was marked with no interruptions and silence save for the swishing of his robes and the sounds of their shoes. The eagle statue that guarded the commons room greeted them with a riddle. ” "Which came first, the phoenix, or the flame?" the statue asked of them. ”A circle has no beginnings.” Markelm replied almost before the statue could finish speaking. With its answer given, the statue came to life and opened to allow passage. ”Off you go. I don’t think anyone saw us come up from the castle grounds so you should be safe from your fellow Ravenclaw.”
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Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 12:00 am
Magical creatures? Elsie wondered as she she said aloud, "Why is it not available for first years? And of course you will still be teaching. You will be a great teacher. I just know it!" She said with a smile. She glanced at Pyx and she decided that the girl ferret needed a teal collar. And a hammock under my bed.... Her mind started ticking off a list of things she needed. Though the weight of her wand in her sleeve reminded her of what he had already given her. Markelm already seemed to have spent a lot on her. She started to chew on her bottom lip a moment then decided she would try to save up, provided she gets an allowance. Though; after getting in trouble..... now was not the time to ask.
When Markelm said she could write letters; Elsie did jump a little in joy as she hugged Pyx to her; her herbology book shifted in her robe's pocket, though thankfully did not fall to the ground. "Good enough! Thank you!" She said and she held Pyx close to protect the tiny creature from the chill in the air; the ferret nuzzled her neck and climbed under the robe at Elsie's neck. Elsie let Pyx stay there and she bundled her robe around her as she hugged her chest. Yes, it was definitely time to wear the warmer clothes if she was to leave the school again. She glanced up to where Markelm showed the Owlery. She would have to learn how to get there, she may ask him for some fast route ideas the next time they talked face to face. He seemed to know the school rather well. "Peeves?" She asked. The students had met most of the ghosts; well the ones that showed themselves. None she had seen, called themselves Peeves. As they went a different path to get back to the dorms, Elsie looked around trying to memorize what she could. She got distracted though by the architecture. Everything about this school was amazing! She thought, then she realized she was lagging behind. quietly she hurried her step and followed through the main gates. By the time they walked up to the Ravenclaw dorns, Elsie was exhausted. Her brain was so muddled by the sleep calling to her, she did not even bother answering the riddle. Sleepily Elsie nodded and she entered the dorm, waving as she said; "Goodnight." She saw there was no one up at this crazy hour, everyone was asleep. So she yawned as she headed for the stairs, she felt a slight pull on her robes and realized Pyx was crawling around in her hood as Elsie walked up the stairs. The chill from before was gone, though her wet socks demanded to be removed.
Climbing to the top, Elsie opened the door to the first years room and she slipped in. When she saw the clothes on her bed; Elsie sighed then hung them up in her mini wardrobe before she slipped off her shoes and socks. She carefully removed her robes and undid her tie; scooped Pyx and softly said. "Welcome to your new home." The ferret bounced about on the bed while Elsie changed into her pajamas. Being careful to put her wand in the side table's top drawer she eyed the ink and quills; putting them in the drawer as well. Yawning; Elsie stretched before she untied the curtains surrounding her bed. There was at least another hour until the sun rose so she may as well sleep. She did not even care she had left a mess of clothes by the bed as she crawled under the covers. "Goodnight Pyx.' She said closing her eyes while the ferret still bounced around. Elsie cracked an eye open and she caught the hyper ferret; then she placed Pyxis on the pillow near her head. With a glare she tried to send mental vibes to get the ferret o sleep. It took some time, but Pyx finally curled up and the two were able to fall asleep.
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Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 1:02 am
Markelm shrugged at the question of why first and second year students weren’t allowed to take electives. He thought the earlier they started the better but he assumed the school had to take the safety of the kids into account when it came to electives. ”I think its for safety reasons. Not to mention I’ll be taking my classes into the forbidden forest. That’s no place for a young witch like yourself. Not that I’d ever allow you in the forbidden forest even as an adult unsupervised.” He jested.. or maybe he was serious. He didn’t want Elsie to get hurt and had spent much of his time raising her trying to keep her away from harm. The walls of Hogwarts was safe enough but he’d find it harder to keep her safe as she got older or even graduated.
”Peeves is a chaotic and trouble making ghost that has haunted the school ever since its founding. Or so I’m told. Nobody seems to know how to control him and he enjoys spending his time scaring kids and making messes for us teachers to clean up. I haven’t had to deal with him yet but I’m sure I’ll be chasing that ghost around rather often. Me and all the other teachers. I hear he isn’t fond of the new Headmaster.. which can only mean he’ll do his best to make trouble for everyone.” Markelm explained as best he could. He only knew what the other professors had told him.
Sleep too seemed to be tugging at the edge of his consciousness by the time he got Elsie back into the commons room. Before she managed to slip through the door he gave her hair another messy ruffle before he spun around in a flourish of black cloak and strode off, back down the stairs and illuminating his wand once more as he went. The man didn’t head back to the hut now called home but descended deeper into Hogwarts to attend to other business.
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Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 4:45 am
Kyra had once again woken early, just before the sun raised and crested the mountain tops outside their windows, bringing fourth a cascade of colors through the windows of the dormitories. She dared not intentionally wake other students as she went about her morning routine of getting washed up and dressed. Several other first year students were stirring in their beds, full stomachs from the feast last night making them sluggish for the second of September, the first day of classes. Kyra had laid out the books and supplies she’d need for the day, brushed out her long flowing silver hair and made sure her uniform was on straight and without wrinkles. She spent much of the time waiting downstairs in the commons room, watching as students both old and young trickled fourth. At about seven she had gone upstairs to prod at the sleeping Elsie who was cuddled fluffy thing, but her attempts were in vain as all she received was the angry squeaks of a ferret who didn’t want her rest disturbed and a slew of uncompressible muttering from Elsie herself. I wonder how long she stayed up for… It couldn’t have been too late. She thought to herself as she continued to wait downstairs. Students poured fourth from the stairs in larger numbers now, some exiting to get an early start to breakfast before getting ready for classes and others lingering to eat and head to class right after. Kyra didn’t have much an appetite yet so she lingered behind and continued to watch the stairs as she sat or walked around the commons. Several students, mostly young boys broke ice with her, introducing themselves in half awake conversation and introductions. One kid, a chirpy wiry excitable boy bounded down the steps in threes and fours. Kyra swore he was going to face plant hard but somehow his untied shoes stayed on and stayed true to the carpet, righting his body and turning him loose on the rest of the commons room. He introduced himself to literally everyone. The 4th years and higher seemed irked and swatted him away like a buzzing fly. The 2nd years paid him more attention and the 3rd years weren’t sure if they should shoo him away or let him linger. In the end they took the path of their elders and told the kid to bugger off. Kyra could already tell that despite being of one house, most of the kids kept to their age groups to form 6 or so concentrated groups around the Ravenclaw circular room. Sure kids only a year or two apart would drift, mingle and even share stories of the summers past but for the most part everyone stayed with their friends or the students they shared the year before with. The 1st years, including herself, just kinda free floated in nervousness, too young to have many friends yet and not bold enough to talk amongst their seniors… with the exception of the boy who introduced himself to her as Clyde Finnigan. There were one or two students she recognized, daughters to friends of her mother and father but they weren’t children she was very acquainted with. None the less she still made friendly conversation that consisted mostly of the school, how good the food tasted and guesses at what teachers and classes would be like.
Soon enough the rooms occupants dwindled till there were just a few late comers left, kids who had woken up late and were just now getting their books and class tools jammed into bags and robes. One girl had even come down with her robe on backwards and didn’t fix it until Kyra had pointed it out. Several people asked if she wanted to walk with them, including a pair of dark haired boys who were obviously brothers. Kyra urged them to breakfast and continued to wait, her eye, like a pendulum, swinging back and fourth from the grandfather clock to the staircase. It was nearing eight when Kyra found herself again standing at the side of Elsie’s bed, and with wand in hand she began to prod the girl to wake her up. Kyra’s wand was Walnut, and long and thin at 14 inches. Strangely enough it didn’t have Veela hair as the core, but Dragon Heartstring instead.
Wake up Elsie. Class starts in an hour. You’re gonna be late. Breakfast is going to end soon. were repeated from Kyra’s lips quietly as she reached over to give the girl a shake. Kyra would be embarrassed if she showed up late on her first day, for her first class, and it wasn’t even her fault.
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-Da llama king- Vice Captain
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Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 8:02 am
"Into the forest!?" Elsie said sounding very excited then she pouted when he said she was too young; she stuck her tongue out when he added she was still forbidden even if she were an adult. "Well I am going to take that class when I can, so you are going to have to take me to the forest. So there." She said in a huff.
Making a note to avoid Peeves, Elsie felt bad for anyone who had to put up with an unruly ghost. "There are no special ways to deal with ghosts? Spells or incantations?" Elsie asked curiously.
Glancing back with a wave; Elsie found her hair ruffled once more and she made a face of annoyance. Ah well, it will get messed up during sleep. She thought and soon, she was asleep.
Elsie heard something pulling her from sleep but she ignore it the first time around. She just snugged further into her blankets muttering words to whoever dared to try and wake her. Time passed and once more she was prodded to wake and she finally cracked an eye open seeing Kyra. The young witch was saying something about class starting soon? How could that be? They had a few days to settle in, or so she was told. Stretching, Elsie sat up and she looked around; Pyx rolled to where Elsie once lay, the head indent now was her warm snuggle spot. "Class starting? Breakfast?" She asked sleepily, about to reassure her friend there was still time. Wait, Kyra knew way more about Hogwarts than Elsie, her mother was a teacher after all. CLASS STARTING??? Elsie thought in a panic and she scrambled out of bed. The memory of losing five points just hours ago slammed into her thoughts and she realized if she were late to class on her first day she would be in trouble again. Elsie became a whirlwind of speed as she raced to the showers with fresh clothes; returning in under ten minutes with her hair wet; curling around her shoulders and she was in her school uniform. Her tie was a bit crooked, but she had used the mirror to help. Tossing the pajamas to the pile of dirty clothes, Elsie inwardly flailed as she thought of what she needed. She was not worried about her clothes being taken by the house elves. She had seen her name Elsie Nicholais marked on them all; she was used to being taken care of after all. With a frown, she rifled through her side table drawers to find her wand and she pictured the school list in her head while she slipped the wand into her sleeve. Potions then Herbology before Lunch. Oh dear... She thought. Digging through the clothes left on the floor from early that morning, she found her herbology book then slipped some paper, a few quills, ink and the book with the book for potions into her satchel; making sure to use the compartments carefully so the ink and quills survive the journey. "So we just leave these guys here and they all get along?" Elsie asked looking at her new ferret, who was still asleep. Elsie though was worried about the other pets that were in the room. Some were caged, while others were loose. "OH! Let me introduce you to Pyxis, Pyx for short. Ah! BREAKFAST! Oh dear. Pyx has not eaten yet either. How much time do I have left?" Elsie asked in a mild panic as she looked at Kyra.
{all the ferret research xD she needs a litter box to keep under the bed. A bowl of ferret food to leave out while Elsie is gone; cause ferrets need to eat every 3-4 hrs or so. And the human foods Pyx can eat is a long list of things to be careful with; they are so like having tiny cats XD If there is time, she will give Pyx some scrambled eggs : 3}
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Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2014 9:48 pm
As far as Markelm was aware, there were no real ways to deal with ghosts. He was sure those who dabbled furthest into the dark arts knew spells or artifacts that could control deathly apparitions but the general opinion on most ghost were that they were a nuisance but not particularly threatening. Banshee’s, wraiths, and other dark spirits were different however. Damned or evil souls that had dropped to such madness that their soul purpose was to haunt and harm the living but against such foulness as those, a wizard had tools to fight with. ”I wouldn’t worry much about the ghost of Hogwarts. Peeves might be a menace but to my knowledge he’s never actually harmed a student. Maybe squealed on people who were up to no good and gotten them detention, but he won’t hurt anyone. Markelm left Elsie with that knowledge and spoke no further of ghost. Soon enough she would get used to their spectral presence and consider them a part of her daily life.
Kyra smiled as Elsie finally opened her eyes and sat up with a stretch. ”Yes. We have Potions for our first hour.” She stated, reaching over and grabbing Elsie’s class schedule which was laying on the top of all her books. She held it up in front of her and pointed to first hour potions. ”See, it says September 2nd. Potions. 9 A.M.” Kyra wasn’t sure she’d ever seen someone dash off so fast. She thought she even felt her hair move from the way Elsie blew by her as she rushed frantically off to get cleaned and dressed. Kyra plopped down onto her own bed as she waited, leaning over and wrapping her hand around Japopo and lifting him up onto the bed. She tickled the bottom of his head with a finger while she waited, kicking her feet back and fourth and making random conversation with the cute little slug. When the door opened again she picked him back up and placed him on the floor and followed Elsie back to her bed and watched her gather up her things in silence till she was finally introduced to the fuzzy ferret that was still curled about the bed. ”I guess.” she answered with a shrug. Kyra wasn’t exactly sure who looked after the animals but she knew Japopo didn’t need much looking after. He’d probably just crawl around under her bed the entire day and he didn’t exactly require much attention when it came to feeding. ”Pyx is a cute name. When did you get him though? He wasn’t up here when I fell asleep.” She asked as she leaned forward to study the ferret. She’d never actually seen one up close. Kyra glanced at one of the clocks on the wall when asked about how much time they had left. ”About 45 minutes, but its best to get there before the bell rings.. And Potions is in the dungeon but you probably have enough time to grab a few muffins or something to eat.” Kyra moved over to her bag and lifted it up off the ground and slung it over her shoulder and began moving slowly towards the door. If they were going to get some food and make it to class it would be best to leave now. Despite the fact that time was already against Elsie, Kyra wasn’t moving any faster than normal as she stepped lazily down the stairs and into the commons room. The room wasn’t empty with groups of students having returned from breakfast now hanging out and whispering to themselves. The emotion in the room seemed strange as kids glanced about and muttered in harsh tones but Kyra didn’t stop to listen or inquire as to why they were upset. They passed through the commons room door and started to wind their way down the steps from the Ravenclaw tower. Other students were moving to and from hallways and courtyards as they came to the first floor and wound their way to the great hall for breakfast. The large room was laid out with several long tables. Four rows, one for each house and each row still had many students sitting upon the long benches. Most of the students had already eaten and were gathered around in clumps and talking. The Ravenclaw students in particular seemed rather gloomy as they sat huddled together, throwing glances towards the Slytherin table. Kyra’s eyes were drawn to the table of snakes as a 5th or 6th year held up his wand and waved it around the air, writing in red streaming letters ‘-5” which was followed by a burst of laughter. Kyra had no idea what was going on as they crossed the large hall and she took a seat. ”I wonder what that’s all about.”
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-Da llama king- Vice Captain
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Posted: Wed Sep 17, 2014 1:43 am
Elsie was still a bit worried, but she nodded. She knew of ghosts; so she was not surprised that they exist. Not really. But she was still startled when they all showed up at the feast last night. What other surprises did this school have for them? "Someone was saying that some of the ghosts were cursed to forever roam the halls of Hogwarts because of something they did. I don't dare to ask though. Some of them seem rather grumpy." She muttered, speaking of grumpy... Markelm was back to being different. She did not like him being grumpy.
Elsie blinked a few times as she read the schedule Kyra held up before she ran off in a panic. She made good time at least. Part of it was because Elsie was naturally a fast moving person, while some of it was because she was used to being able to be ready in little time; though that dang tie gave her some trouble. Making sure to wear a vest over her blouse, Elsie also put on warmer socks too. Last night was chilly. Once her bag was packed, Elsie finally noticed Kyra was still waiting. "Thanks for waiting." She said with a smile before she pondered what happened to all the pets in the dorms. Grinning at Pyxis who was still sleeping; Elsie said, "Oh! She is a gift from Mar... Um Professor Nicholais." She said; hiding the fact she was not in the dorm for some time this morning. She too glanced at the clock and sighed when she learned of the time remaining. There would not be enough time to bring Pyx some food AND make it to class on time. Elsie hoped the ferret would be alright. She was actually a bit worried about them all being left alone; but the school was known as the best. They would not let something happen to the children's pets. Adjusting her satchel, Elsie leaned forward and she petted the sleeping ferret. "Well, I guess a muffin will have to do. I will bring you up some food from lunch Pyx and write him a letter to get you some toys and stuff. Come on Kyra, let's go then. Thanks for waking me by the way. I lost track of time reading..." And getting into trouble... Elsie thought as she glanced at Kyra before leaving their dorm room.
Elsie skipped down the stairs in her normal hurried fashion; she paused as she saw all the other students and she could take a guess as to why some of them seemed upset. The best way to not draw attention to yourself is to not like anything is wrong. Yup... nothing wrong here. Elsie thought as she slowly walked; swinging her arms side to side trying to patiently wait as she kept glancing back to Kyra trying to not make eye contact with anyone else. Reaching the doorway, she still waited acting like a typical nervous first year as she rocked on the back of her heels; unable to stop herself from overhearing some of the conversations. No one mentioned her name, and no one knew why the points were gone. Thought there was speculation a student had gotten out of bed, but no year was mentioned. She was safe from being an outcast... for now.
Elsie hopped on the steps, slowing her hyper self down by hopping backwards then forwards as she said, "I think that we will all be getting a great deal of exercise in this school. All the stairs... It is crazy!" She almost tripped when she got distracted by a painting saying hello to her, though she managed to catch herself before she awkwardly waved. Down the stairs they went and eventually they made it unto the great hall. Elsie noticed Ravenclaw's gloom but she said nothing as she quickly started snagging a few muffins and some bacon; sliding them onto a clean plate while she sat next to Kyra. Elsie followed Kyra's gaze and spotted the Slytherin mocking the Ravenclaw's loss of points. Not wanting to lie; Elsie focused on unwrapping a muffin as she said, "Ravenclaw lost five points during the night. There was talk of it in the commons room." She then munched on the bacon as she pinched a piece off the muffin; sniffing it before she ate the piece. "So potions is in the dungeon? I wonder more on what we will be doing today. We should probably get directions too. Before the others start heading off. At my other school, the first day was usually just lots of note taking and learning what we are going t learn that year. Hmm... ~Munches on another piece of muffin~ This banana muffin is pretty good; want some?" Elsie said cutting off her train of thought as she started eating more pieces off the muffin. She offered Kyra a piece.
Elsie pocketed the second muffin and stood once she was done with eating the first. Though she only dusted crumbs off her before she sat back down and she waited for Kyra to finish whatever breakfast she chose. "I am going to ask for directions to the potions class. I think that is our Prefect." Elsie decided, hopping back up again and without waiting for a reply from Kyra she headed over to a group of Ravenclaws. The one Elsie suspected was the Prefect, had blond curly hair and dark eyes. Elsie cleared her throat and nodded when she saw the pin that had the "P" with their house coloring. "Um, sorry... You are a Prefect right? Do you know the best way to get to potions class?" Elsie asked trying to hide all nervousness.
Tiffany Hale glanced at the obviously lost first year and she nodded. "Yes, I am Tiffany." The little redhead announced herself as Elsie, with a cheerful smile. This was Tiffany's fifth year at the school, and she knew it rather well. Though, this was the first time she ever heard of someone to have lost house points on the first day of school. She would have to watch everyone carefully to make sure the other Ravenclaw's behaved. If she ever found the Ravenclaw who was responsible for losing those points; she would ensure they got detention. The little first year before Tiffany seemed polite and harmless enough as Tiffany pointed to the direction of potions class. "You follow that path until you spot the stairs going down. There is an open doorway which leads into the dungeon. Take a right then a left and go down the new stairs. You should see it on the right; a big wooden door."
Elsie glanced to where Prefect Tiffany pointed then she nodded. Ok go down to the dungeons and made some turns n s**t. She thought as she said, "Ok so keep going, down the stairs until the doorway. A right, left, then new stairs. On the right a big wooden door. Ok. Got it. Thank you." She waved and started to head off when the prefect said, "Be careful, and Mind the rules. We don't need more points taken." Elsie froze a split second before she chuckled, "That's why we are going to class a bit early. Before the prefect could keep talking; Elsie sped up quickly and she was able to relax once more as she sat by Kyra. @.@ I feel like everyone knowssssss... Elsie thought as she placed her head on the table. She took a calming breath and sat up straight. "Lots of walking. At the door we take a right then head down till we reach the stairs. There will be a doorway, then we head right, left and go down some more stairs before we spot the big wooden door. Elsie said, repeating the directions. She did not want to be the only one who knew. In case they got lost; it would be both their fault. Not just hers.
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