An active, character-driven Hogwarts experience set in the early 2000s. Unique items, plots, and features. Non-canon; this isn't Harry Potter's story, it's ours.
Charlotte came in with a smile, making a straight line for the Ravenclaw Table and sitting with MJ & Ezra. Pushing some hair from her face, she was filling her plate with fruits and cheese, a classic in her book.
Putting some juice in her goblet, she was quick to grab an Apple and Handful of Nuts for later. 'It was going to be a good day,' she told herself before taking a glance around for her siblings.
Post by Cynthia Rushton on Jun 4, 2023 23:09:02 GMT 10
Cynthia slunk into breakfast feeling clean but also, at the same time, completely dead inside. Sure, she'd gotten up in time for Quidditch practice without Amara having to soak her, but at what cost? Even her eyelids felt heavy and sticky.
She slouched into a seat at the breakfast table, only sitting up properly once she realized slouching pulled muscles sore from practice. She didn't even want to think about the schedule for today, packed with classwork and busywork and Hallowe'en celebrations...
Cyn bit back a groan as she reached for oatmeal, ladling honey on top and shoveling a spoonful into her mouth. Maybe food would help.
Post by Thorne Perry on Jun 4, 2023 23:20:29 GMT 10
Thorne scurried into breakfast with his clothes all askew - he'd woken up late, but the exciting plans for the day had him feeling hopeful, despite his harried state. Frog Choir! Defense Against The Dark Arts! Celebrations and a treasure hunt?
It was all too interesting!
He skidded to a stop at the Hufflepuff table, flopping into a chair and doing just that (huffing and puffing) before he sat up and started tidying his uniform, snagging an apple and some nuts and depositing them into his ever-present messenger bag before he took a plate and started piling pancakes onto it.
Post by Caine Hawke on Jun 4, 2023 23:21:35 GMT 10
It was... hard to talk about what he was feeling especially when he didn't know exactly what that feeling was. But Amber was someone he trusted completely! Friends for a long time, always having one another's back; Caine loved her as one of his best friends and knew that if she had advice to give, she'd give it.
Fingers toying with the edges of the green and silver scarf he leaned closer to her voice lowered. He wished there was more privacy, but it seemed to be limited these days. Not that it mattered, he wasn't ashamed of how he felt but he wasn't sure on how the other party involved felt and he didn't want rumors flying.
"It's not really bothering me anymore as much as something I just need to say and ask about. Y'know? And a quick heads up, too... There's been a change of plans."
Typically, Caine would have spent the day with Joshua and Amber and he was sad he had to miss it but also not. He wanted to see what could happen today, what kind of fun he could get into and... he cast a glance sideways as some Slytherins came in - Benjamin among them. A smile drifted for a moment before he lifted his hand in a brief wave before his attention snapped back toward Amber.
"I really like someone and I want to take them to Hogsmeade but I don't know if it's weird to ask them." he rushed, face reddening a little. "I feel bad for skipping out on Hogsmeade with you and Josh but I want to see this person outside of class and I've been writing them stupid little notes and not signing them and sticking them in their bag when they don't know."
He was speaking quickly, flustered but glad to have finally said something to someone rather than holding it in like a soda you've shaken too much. But... going alone with Benjamin... did that make him a bad friend? He worried about that.
"You guys won't be mad at me, will you?"
Last Edit: Jun 4, 2023 23:23:49 GMT 10 by Caine Hawke
Breakfast was great! He was contentedly eating his eggs and bacon, reading from the comic book in front of him when the elder Slytherin's entered - blue eyes watching them with a smirk on his face. Why did some look so tired?
He didn't know nor did he care really but they were a break from the boring monotony of the daily breakfast grind.
He huffed to himself, glancing up to see a rude gesture from Sarah. That... ugh! He hated her! Why was she so mean all the time? He had only asked her to clean up her mess but the little slob was angry about it still... WEEKS later! The rude girl was insufferable.
Not even bothering with a response, Giovi glanced over at MJ at the Ravenclaw table... and the Hufflepuff over there, too. You could switch seats in the mornings? Why hadn't he known this? Maybe, tomorrow, he'd attempt to sit with others that could be friends rather than lingering alone at the Slytherin tables.
He just wanted this horrible breakfast to be over...
With a loud, signaling screech, hundreds of owls swooped into the Great Hall to deliver the Daily Prophet -- as well as any letters or packages from home. A rather keenly-watched one was of an obvious broomstick-shape, which the professional owl made a beeline for the Hufflepuff table.
Breakfast was rather quiet today, as students simply complained about having classes on Hallowe'en -- or made eager plans to visit Hogsmeade today. When owl post livened things up again, most of the Professor had already left the hall.
One thing that did stir attention and chatter though, was the Daily Prophet. Professor Hathmore snatched the newspaper though, and studied it quite intently... and even got out a notebook to jot things down. Reactions from the students were mixed, and theories ran rampant -- amidst students also searching their bags for scissors or simply ripping at the paper's end pages.
Some younger students had to be reassured by Prefects or other siblings, having glimpsed the headlines and were rather thankful not to leave the grounds today. Professor McGonagall made sure to give students, who had permission to visit Hogsmeade, a reminder to have their wits about them and be on their best behaviour -- or such privileges would not be extended.
We deeply apologise for this short letter, as we wanted to congratulate you properly... but unfortunately, I have to write this fast as I need to head to Saint Mungo's. Your father was injured during the incident at Burnt Hill, as you'll no doubt read about in the paper soon. He's all right, but it was quite a nasty burn and needs tended to by Healers.
Nevertheless, an owl should likely follow this one -- containing your new broomstick! Please take good care of it. We'll write again soon, once your father's feeling up to it.
We're so proud of you Joshy!
From: Mum
The broomstick-shaped package appeared to be his, delivered by a rather handsome owl specifically trained for such a task. Inside the brown wrapping was a shiny new Ashstorm broomstick; the same kind that his older sister also had. A smaller, somewhat frazzled owl followed it -- which dropped off the letter.
It's always lovely to hear from our readers, especially one so complimentary. Though I'm quite immune to flattery, I appreciate the effort.
If I may be so bold... your name is Verity, and you're a student at Hogwarts? Am I corresponding with the elusive Verity Ashworth herself? An honour, if that's the case.
Unfortunately, there isn't much I can tell you over owl. Nor much I can share in general, if I'm being honest. It's quite a complicated matter, and there are many keen to cover it up. The Ministry does not wish to admit any fault on their part whatsoever. You must have so many unanswered questions, and so do we.
If you truly wished to discuss this further, off the record, I'd normally be willing to meet you in Hogsmeade... however, given the current state of things, it's not advisable. I cannot leave the office today either, with such a busy news day. I wish had I more to tell you, but at this point we're still investigating. A lot of new information was released, and we're still combing through it.
If you ever wish to have an interview with us, and share your side of the story, please do let me know. Perhaps we could work together at uncovering the truth?
I'm sorry, Kody -- I won't be able to make it to Hogsmeade today, as we suddenly need to head to Italy and look into a matter. Nothing to be concerned about, but we'll have reschedule to celebrate another time.
I hope you and Verity enjoy your first trip anyway, and spoil yourselves with lots of sweets or jokes. Be careful out there as well; don't wander off alone, okay?
Did you have a good first Quidditch practice? I hope the broomstick your Grandparents bought was one of the best ones, and has lots of safety measures. Is your Captain nice, or at least reasonable?
I miss you kids terribly. Perhaps more than ever, now you're all growing up. I considered perhaps visiting, at Hogsmeade someday, you know? But with Dementors in the area, I don't dare risk it. Please be very careful, little Duck. Verity, too. Those things... they find every little bit of sadness deep inside, as if all joy is gone from the world. Sometimes I feel like one is always around me, but then I see your smiling faces and I'm reminded there is still light in the world.
Your father was always my light, and I his. That never faded; it lives in you, now. Sometimes, I used to think it too cruel a fate -- that you look and act so much like him, when he cannot be with us. I'm sorry for that, as I'm sure it was quite a burden on you as well. But now I think differently, as you're not only his son but mine too.
Now I feel that you were born for a reason. Our middle child. Our light and tether.
I've been thinking so much lately that my head is getting loud. I'm sorry to also burden you with this, but Reena and Jaxen... they're O.W.L and N.E.W.T students now, and have carried far too much already. Perhaps it is time I lighten their load? Perhaps it's finally time to do what I was supposed to do, and make this right.
Things will be different soon. By Christmas, you'll see. I promise you that. I know what has to be done now; it is time. I am strong enough for this, thanks to each of you... my little lights through the darkness.
I love you, sweetheart. I'm so proud of you, and everything that is uniquely you. I haven't said that nearly enough, I'm sorry. But never doubt it. You are just as precious, just as loved, and just as special. Not because of him, or because of me, but because of you.
Please be careful in Hogsmeade; don't wander alone. Please at least try the Butterbeer in the Three Broomsticks, though your father absolutely hates the stuff. He spat it all over me on a date once, and was more upset about it than I was. Just... please, little Duck, be alert. Don't talk to anyone you don't know, especially now.
Post by Thorne Perry on Jun 5, 2023 0:21:29 GMT 10
Oh....
That wasn't a very nice front page.
Thorne stared at the floating apparition on it and shivered slightly. It didn't look like anything he'd ever seen - or ever wanted to see. He hurriedly folded his newspaper so the moving image wasn't visible anymore, smiling a bit at the coupon hidden further back.
that he would want later.
He slid his Daily Prophet into his bag, and shoveled the rest of his pancakes into his mouth, heading off to class.
Owl post was delivered and with it, a letter for Sarah. It came with an owl she didn't recognize, but that was par for the course. Her parents had to use the professional post service to send their letters. Muggle mail didn't come to Hgowarts, sadly.
She skimmed over it, rolling her eyes at the question whether she was thinking of her grades, of course she was. Sarah just didn't do much about it.
Sarah opened the Daily Prophet, quickly reading through the first page, when an excited gasp escaped her. Her eyes lit up with excitement was the small section in the corner advertising the "Mischief Managed" coupon inside. She basically tored the newspaper apart to get it, and was even tempted to beg one off from an older year at the table.
"Finally," she whispered to herself, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "This is going to be epic."
Gathering her things, Sarah stuffed the Daily Prophet into her bag and made her way out of the Great Hall, leaving behind the bustling atmosphere of breakfast. She had to make a few stops before the Defense against the Dark Arts.
Finishing his eggs as the owls fluttered in, Giovi glanced skyward and smiled. It never stopped thrilling him when he saw the owls... in fact he liked most animals. It was just the part that lingered from his home, but he would never get rid of that joy. It was a small, fun moment every morning when he got to see them.
Reading the paper he frowned slightly, brows furrowing. He didn't really get what it all meant but still, it didn't sound good. Folding the paper up to read again later and try to figure out, he shoved it into his bag and stood, glancing around at any friends that may join him, a tentative wave to MJ before he shifted and headed out the door toward his next class.
Post by Kody Ashworth on Jun 5, 2023 0:31:43 GMT 10
A whole rain of mail came down at Kody's seat! He marvelled at the two letters, recognizing each handwriting on the front but the picture on the Daily Prophet caught his attention first.
Kody read the article quickly, sucking in a breath and then reading it again with care. He zoned in on the mentions of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures being present at what happened.
He wasn't entirely fond of the Ministry for complicated reasons he couldn't get into right now but he was interested in this. Kody flicked through the paper, checking out the other articles that had been mentioned on the front page.
A new Butterbeer flavour? Seemed like a good day to try one! He wondered if his Grandpa would be down for trying a new flavour together. Kody grinned at the thought when he saw the coupon mentioned.
With his tongue sticking out a little, Kody carefully removed the coupon from the paper to use later. He'd find something at Mischief Managed to buy!
The paper was set aside as Kody moved onto the letters. He decided to open the one from his Grandpa first.
Kody's bright smile faded as he read the contents of the letter, turning the page over to see if there was anything on the back before frowning at it. Italy? Why would they need to go to Italy? Where even was Italy? How far was that?
It wasn't like Kody was taught Geography at school!
He set the letter down, looking around the Great Hall but if Verity was there, she was well hidden at her own table. His heart sank a little and he knew he'd have to let her know in class about what Grandpa said.
His stomach felt weird and his hands shook a little when he picked up the second letter, suddenly afraid to read the contents. He wished he could see Reena or Jaxen and force them to read the letter for him.
But that wasn't an option right now and it felt wrong to just ignore it.
Fingertips ghosted over his name on the front, in his mum's handwriting.
Swallowing, he carefully opened the letter as though it was going to suddenly explode (but no, it wasn't a Howler so he was safe).
It took him longer to read this one, letting each word settle on him and Kody found himself feeling rather emotional reading his mum's letter. It felt... Well, it felt important. He tried not to find hidden meanings in her words and just appreciate the nice things she said.
Kody was determined -- he'd write his mum a letter back today. He had thought about writing one yesterday but wanted to wait for Quidditch Practice so he could tell her about it. Kody put the newspaper, coupon and his grandpa's letter into his school bag.
His mum's letter, however, went into the pocket on the inside of his robes. Close to his heart.
He stood, glanced around for Verity once more before leaving the Great Hall for class.
Post by Oscar Tinkle on Jun 5, 2023 0:35:59 GMT 10
Just as Oscar was finishing off the last of his morning juice, the owl post arrived with its usual noise.
A newspaper was dropped in front of him by an owl that flew straight off, and he was about to reach for it when another owl appeared. One that was much more familiar to him and came clutching a package.
It was Mercury, his parents' faithful owl, which meant that the package was from home. And a package from home hopefully only meant one thing - his Mamma had come through with the treats! If that was true then at least his day was looking up!
Oscar wanted to dive right into the box and find out, but first he had one other important thing to deal with.. One very good owl.
He smiled as he offered Merc a treat and ran a finger affectionately over the owl's feathers. His package set off to the side for the moment.
It was only after he had the owl set up with a drink that he finally opened up his delivery.
Maritozzi! Score! Oscar would quite happily only eat them for the rest of the day.
There was something else wrapped in the box though, separated from the baked goods. What was it?
He reached out to fold the packaging back only to grin at what he saw.
His beanie!
That was why he could not find it in his dorm then, it had been missed in his packing for school. The hat quickly found its home on his head, which meant that it was officially the start of months of smushed down curls.
With one of his treats from home in hand to munch on, Oscar opened the accompanying letter to read what was going on back home.
“I’ll write them later,” he told Merc once he was finished, tucking the letter away in his bag. “If you want to head to the owlery to rest or head home, it’s up to you.”
He left the owl to make his own decision on where he wanted to be, and turned to pick up his newspaper instead.
The newspaper that, as he read the headline, he wished he no longer had delivered.
That was not a pleasant days news, quite the opposite really. What was going on in the wizarding world lately?
Whatever it was, it all seemed to be slipping down a disturbing hill. One that Oscar was worried about the bottom of.
Instead of dwelling on that though, Oscar forced a calm face on, and went about reassuring a pair of first years.
It took a while, but eventually he got the younger students to move on with their day and could make a break for it himself. Well, after he had carefully tucked his treats away in his bag at least, he couldn’t forget them.
Amber waited patiently until Caine had finally found his words. She noticed how he was fiddling with the scarf.
As he greeted someone during their talk, she followed his gaze, expecting someone she knew too. But there was only a group of Slytherin, although she recognised some classmates. Amber wondered in surprise since when her friend was close with them now, as she couldn’t remember it to be the case before.
However, before she could think more about that, Caine demanded her attention.
For a moment she was just baffled from Caine’s direct statement. She blinked once as she needed to process his confession first, while still comprehending the stuff he said afterwards.
Amber looked at him, noticing how flustered the Hufflepuff was, especially as he talked about his notes. She bit on her lip to avoid a chuckle as she wanted to hear Caine out until he was finished. But his reactions were just so cute! That almost demanded teasing time… but she would hold back this time. For him.
When Caine asked if they would be mad, she took a spoon and gave him a playful tap on his head.
“Oi, I’m going to be mad if you expect this!” A huge grin appeared on her face, clearly showing she was just teasing him. She leaned closer.
“So, who is it?” Amber asked curious and glanced around in the Great Hall. But first of all, she had no idea where to really look (maybe Slytherin as the scarf and group…?) and second, maybe this wasn’t the right place for such a conversation.
“Nah, you don’t have to tell me. Especially not here.” She gazed at him for a moment, then she added in a lowered voice. “But I think it’s a good idea to go with them alone to Hogsmeade. Then you two have time to get to know each other a little better. And I mean, if you’re unsure, you can just ask them to go shopping together or so? You don’t have to call it a date just yet. Just… feel each other out? And if it gets weird, you can still come and find me and Josh.”
She gave his hand an encouraged pat and smiled at him. Although, her smile turned into a grin soon.
“Aww, I’m so excited for you!” she giggled.
At that moment, the Owls arrived. Amber snatched an exemplar of the Daily Prophet but would wait to read anything of it until Caine was done with their talk.
Last Edit: Jun 5, 2023 13:50:33 GMT 10 by Lena: Fixed: accidentally bolded non-dialogue.
Post by Cynthia Rushton on Jun 5, 2023 0:38:15 GMT 10
There was a lot on the front page. Cynthia glowered at it, still too tired to really deeply process anything she was reading (and if the threat was contained why should she worry?) until she got to the bottom bylines. And there, she felt her face grow hot.
Why would the Ministry shut down a rally meant to support Squibs? Her mother was a Squib, and any time Cynthia heard anything mean about them, she could only remember the hurt looks her mother always tried to hide. It stung, each and every time, and her hands trembled a little bit, tearing the front page.
Squibs were people too, deserving of love and respect and everything else!
Appetite entirely gone, Cyn shoved her crumpled, torn copy of the Daily Prophet into her backpack, pushed away from the table and stormed out of breakfast.
He was keenly aware of the owls flying in as he was tapped in the head with a spoon, meeting her smile with his own - even if it was a little more subdued than usual. He was really worrying about how his friends would take the news but, as it turned out, she wasn't upset.
Thank goodness.
She asked who it was and he glanced over at the Slytherin table with a shrug.
"I'll show you when we leave." he said quietly, glad to finally talk to someone about all the weird, capsizing emotions that were warring inside of him. It wasn't easy to do alone but at the same time he'd not known how to go about even beginning to talk to Amber and Josh. What did it mean for their group?
Josh was his dorm mate and best friend so spending time with him wasn't difficult, but time was hard to maintain sometimes. He didn't want to lose out on time with Amber, too but being around Benjamin made him feel like he could do anything!
"I don't think it'll get weird but I'll remember that for later. I swear." If he had to find them, he would. But he figured it'd be a lot of fun out with Benji. At least, if their adventures within the walls were anything to compare them to.
A pat to his hand and he smiled at his friend.
"Thank you." he whispered, reaching over to grab one of the Daily Prophets and slip it into his bag to read later. He wasn't up to date on the news of the world but... he kind of preferred it that way.
"Would you like to walk with me to class?" he stood, ready to take Potions by storm and get on his way to Hogsmeade.
[ooc: exit]
Last Edit: Jun 5, 2023 1:15:32 GMT 10 by Caine Hawke
She quickly looked over the Daily Prophet then. The first page was quite dampening to her spirits. The image of this shadow creature was rather creepy. Although, it would fit Hallowe’en today… She hoped the next news she read on the Prophet would be better…
And now Potions? Irck, she would rather pester Caine more about his crush…
“Yeah, let’s get going. I hope we survive this one…”
She sighed and stood up, following Caine out of the Great Hall.