Obsidian eyes stared down at the mass of students, gathering as they did every year with hopes and dreams of their own and the returning students returning from their time away from the Academy. A large raven, black as night with eyes of different colors, sat upon a tall branch in a tree that was steadily losing its leaves in preparation for the return of fall. It ruffled its feathers as it kept one eye on the arriving students, trying to pick out all of its returning students from the years before and eagerly scanning for all the new faces. A few boys here, a few girls there, and as it had been given the duty of counting the new students as they arrived, tallied up the total and was satisfied with the result. Many were accounted for, except one or two that had not arrived yet, and the bird made a mental note as to which names were missing.
It took flight, circling above them lazily and appreciating how beautiful the rise of dawn was at this time of the year. Pinks, purples and blues painted the sky in brilliant colors, casting a warm glow over the earth as the sun was beginning its ascent. A few students noticed this, and pointed upwards, mentioning the bird to each other and presumably explaining that this was, in fact, one of the teachers- to a few student's surprise. The transfiguration teacher, they explained, she did this every year the past two years, to count the students and just wait to see the new students reactions once she revealed herself. If Felicity could smile as she watched the conversations between the students and the recognization of her transfiguration, she would be beaming. But alas, birds do not have lips, and instead she gave a simple caw in acknowledgement of the children who watched her glide in circles above them.
One interaction caught Felicity's eye very quickly- Professor Sharp, speaking to what looked like Lillie, about whatever creature was in her trunk. Oh, Lillie, always bringing and reading about something to challenge the teachers each year on their knowledge of obscure cryptozoology or unproven things like ghosts. She was about to fly down to resolve the matter when the bus arrived (on time, like it always did), and Felicity was amused at the state of the wings this year. She made a mental note to speak to Professor Sharp about whatever it was that had offended him, and as the bus landed she too landed right above the doors to do one last count as the students began to shuffle in. When the last student and professor boarded the dragon bus, she flew in behind them and, in what seemed like a blink of an eye, a blonde haired woman stood where the bird had been hovering just a few moments before, wearing a pointed hat and giving a warm smile.
"Good morning, if I could have your attention please!" She proclaimed, scanning her eyes over the students. "I hope everyone is well on this early fall day. For those of you who do know- and for many of you who don't- my name is Ms. Ravenscroft, and not only do I have the pleasure of escorting you to your destination on the back of our good friend Smaug this year, I also act as your leading Transfiguration professor, in the fascinating school of Alchemy."
She paused for a moment, hoping they had understood her Hobbit reference, and continued to speak so that her voice reached the students in the far back. "I would like to welcome you on board our lovely transportation, as well as represent the professors here in saying welcome, welcome, welcome...to your first official day at Redtome Academy for the year of 2018! There is a lot going on on your first day, whether you're fresh at the Academy or a returning student eager to begin settling into life here again, and we can understand it can be confusing. If anyone has any questions please feel free to ask any of the professors, including myself, on our journey!"
With that Felicity gave a gracious bow, and took her place in the seat beside the doors that was reserved for professors, waiting for this year's exciting school year to begin.
Obsidian eyes stared down at the mass of students, gathering as they did every year with hopes and dreams of their own and the returning students returning from their time away from the Academy. A large raven, black as night with eyes of different colors, sat upon a tall branch in a tree that was steadily losing its leaves in preparation for the return of fall. It ruffled its feathers as it kept one eye on the arriving students, trying to pick out all of its returning students from the years before and eagerly scanning for all the new faces. A few boys here, a few girls there, and as it had been given the duty of counting the new students as they arrived, tallied up the total and was satisfied with the result. Many were accounted for, except one or two that had not arrived yet, and the bird made a mental note as to which names were missing.
It took flight, circling above them lazily and appreciating how beautiful the rise of dawn was at this time of the year. Pinks, purples and blues painted the sky in brilliant colors, casting a warm glow over the earth as the sun was beginning its ascent. A few students noticed this, and pointed upwards, mentioning the bird to each other and presumably explaining that this was, in fact, one of the teachers- to a few student's surprise. The transfiguration teacher, they explained, she did this every year the past two years, to count the students and just wait to see the new students reactions once she revealed herself. If Felicity could smile as she watched the conversations between the students and the recognization of her transfiguration, she would be beaming. But alas, birds do not have lips, and instead she gave a simple caw in acknowledgement of the children who watched her glide in circles above them.
One interaction caught Felicity's eye very quickly- Professor Sharp, speaking to what looked like Lillie, about whatever creature was in her trunk. Oh, Lillie, always bringing and reading about something to challenge the teachers each year on their knowledge of obscure cryptozoology or unproven things like ghosts. She was about to fly down to resolve the matter when the bus arrived (on time, like it always did), and Felicity was amused at the state of the wings this year. She made a mental note to speak to Professor Sharp about whatever it was that had offended him, and as the bus landed she too landed right above the doors to do one last count as the students began to shuffle in. When the last student and professor boarded the dragon bus, she flew in behind them and, in what seemed like a blink of an eye, a blonde haired woman stood where the bird had been hovering just a few moments before, wearing a pointed hat and giving a warm smile.
"Good morning, if I could have your attention please!" She proclaimed, scanning her eyes over the students. "I hope everyone is well on this early fall day. For those of you who do know- and for many of you who don't- my name is Ms. Ravenscroft, and not only do I have the pleasure of escorting you to your destination on the back of our good friend Smaug this year, I also act as your leading Transfiguration professor, in the fascinating school of Alchemy."
She paused for a moment, hoping they had understood her Hobbit reference, and continued to speak so that her voice reached the students in the far back. "I would like to welcome you on board our lovely transportation, as well as represent the professors here in saying welcome, welcome, welcome...to your first official day at Redtome Academy for the year of 2018! There is a lot going on on your first day, whether you're fresh at the Academy or a returning student eager to begin settling into life here again, and we can understand it can be confusing. If anyone has any questions please feel free to ask any of the professors, including myself, on our journey!"
With that Felicity gave a gracious bow, and took her place in the seat beside the doors that was reserved for professors, waiting for this year's exciting school year to begin.
Kat almost sighed in relief when the boy let her sit with him. It would be embarrassing to be excluded, after all. She thanked him quickly and sat down.
Kat looked at her feet, searching for something to say. Right, okay. Remember your notes. Kat was never good at striking up a conversation, and even after taking extensive notes on it, she never could succeed in social interactions. So, before saying anything, she took out her blue spiral notebook and flipped to a section labeled, "Icebreakers." Alright, here. Let's just ask him what year he's in and where he comes from, we should be fine. She closed the notebook, and just as she opened her mouth to speak, a teacher called for everyone's attention, which startled Kat. The teacher was just welcoming the students to the Redtome Academy, yet she was still given a scare. I should really calm down, Kat thought. Taking a deep breath for the who-knows-how-many-times today, she finally asked,
"Um...s-so w-what's your name?"
Kat almost immediately smacked her forehead. Wrong question, she thought, but I should at least know his name first...
Kat almost sighed in relief when the boy let her sit with him. It would be embarrassing to be excluded, after all. She thanked him quickly and sat down.
Kat looked at her feet, searching for something to say. Right, okay. Remember your notes. Kat was never good at striking up a conversation, and even after taking extensive notes on it, she never could succeed in social interactions. So, before saying anything, she took out her blue spiral notebook and flipped to a section labeled, "Icebreakers." Alright, here. Let's just ask him what year he's in and where he comes from, we should be fine. She closed the notebook, and just as she opened her mouth to speak, a teacher called for everyone's attention, which startled Kat. The teacher was just welcoming the students to the Redtome Academy, yet she was still given a scare. I should really calm down, Kat thought. Taking a deep breath for the who-knows-how-many-times today, she finally asked,
"Um...s-so w-what's your name?"
Kat almost immediately smacked her forehead. Wrong question, she thought, but I should at least know his name first...
Lillie continued her trek towards the bus, fuming with distaste for her pet.. Whatever the hell Peeka was. The thing only ate shoes. What kind of animal only eats shoes? When the creature had turned up in her backyard, Lillie had been so excited. Now, however, she was beginning to doubt her decision to bring the animal to Redtome with her. Whatever punishment that Sharp had decided for her, it would probably worse than last years 5 month long detention- all of the bottles in the alchemy closet had never been cleaner, even though mysteriously they all seemed to be covered in soot everytime she went to clean them.
Maybe this year Marco would come to her rescue. Since he was a teacher now, he might be able to have some sway over her many many punishments. She doubted this, though, Sharp didn’t seem to be able to be swayed that easily…
Taking a deep sigh, she almost jumped with surprise when the boy holding Peeka reached her side. Peeka was curled in his arms, sleeping and purring contently, her bushy raccoon tail swishing back and forth calmly. Lillie softened when she saw the animal- she couldn’t remain mad with Peeka, even if the animal had just sentenced her to what was probably a year’s worth of detentions. Most of the teachers at the school were getting tired with Lillie, who seemed to always find trouble, even when she was just standing there.
As she looked the boy up and down, she took in his words. He reminded her of her own younger brother, Alexander, and that brought a small smile to her lips.
“I’m doing dandy,” she told him, holding tighter to her trunk as she got nearer to the bus, and shaking her head at his next two questions “No problem, I don’t mind.” Looking at the content Peeka, she smiled mischievously, “And you can keep the little sh*t for the bus ride. She seems to like you more anyway.”
Peeka perked her head up and snarled.
“I’m Bates.” She told him, holding out her hand before drawing it back upon realizing his were occupied, “Nice to meet you.”
Lillie boarded the bus, dragging her trunk behind her and finding an empty seat, waiting for her new friend to sit beside her.
She watched Professor Ravenscroft float onto the bus, snickering a little and thinking of Marco. She wondered where that idiot was, he obviously wasn’t among the professors here. Probably back at the school, trying to make sure his new Shadow classroom was in perfect order. She couldn’t wait to show Peeka to him.
After Professor Ravenscroft gave her speech, and the snickers of a few students who got the joke subsided, the bus jolted forward and then few up into the air, flying high above the clouds and up into the open blue side. It shook and rattled and bumped, but it wasn’t as bad as previous years, and older students had learned to handle it.
Peeka, however, was not enjoying the ride.
Lillie continued her trek towards the bus, fuming with distaste for her pet.. Whatever the hell Peeka was. The thing only ate shoes. What kind of animal only eats shoes? When the creature had turned up in her backyard, Lillie had been so excited. Now, however, she was beginning to doubt her decision to bring the animal to Redtome with her. Whatever punishment that Sharp had decided for her, it would probably worse than last years 5 month long detention- all of the bottles in the alchemy closet had never been cleaner, even though mysteriously they all seemed to be covered in soot everytime she went to clean them.
Maybe this year Marco would come to her rescue. Since he was a teacher now, he might be able to have some sway over her many many punishments. She doubted this, though, Sharp didn’t seem to be able to be swayed that easily…
Taking a deep sigh, she almost jumped with surprise when the boy holding Peeka reached her side. Peeka was curled in his arms, sleeping and purring contently, her bushy raccoon tail swishing back and forth calmly. Lillie softened when she saw the animal- she couldn’t remain mad with Peeka, even if the animal had just sentenced her to what was probably a year’s worth of detentions. Most of the teachers at the school were getting tired with Lillie, who seemed to always find trouble, even when she was just standing there.
As she looked the boy up and down, she took in his words. He reminded her of her own younger brother, Alexander, and that brought a small smile to her lips.
“I’m doing dandy,” she told him, holding tighter to her trunk as she got nearer to the bus, and shaking her head at his next two questions “No problem, I don’t mind.” Looking at the content Peeka, she smiled mischievously, “And you can keep the little sh*t for the bus ride. She seems to like you more anyway.”
Peeka perked her head up and snarled.
“I’m Bates.” She told him, holding out her hand before drawing it back upon realizing his were occupied, “Nice to meet you.”
Lillie boarded the bus, dragging her trunk behind her and finding an empty seat, waiting for her new friend to sit beside her.
She watched Professor Ravenscroft float onto the bus, snickering a little and thinking of Marco. She wondered where that idiot was, he obviously wasn’t among the professors here. Probably back at the school, trying to make sure his new Shadow classroom was in perfect order. She couldn’t wait to show Peeka to him.
After Professor Ravenscroft gave her speech, and the snickers of a few students who got the joke subsided, the bus jolted forward and then few up into the air, flying high above the clouds and up into the open blue side. It shook and rattled and bumped, but it wasn’t as bad as previous years, and older students had learned to handle it.
Peeka, however, was not enjoying the ride.
Aaron didn't like the question, because it was more complicated than he wanted to. He'd moved around a lot, so he opted to be vague rather than ignore her. "North of here..." He decided to leave it at that. Describing his life story would probably freak these girls or think of him as a coward. "I've lived in different places." He hoped that was it for the question and answer of their conversation. He didn't mind talking as long as it wasn't about him, so he redirected the attention from him to them. He started this mess in the first place, he reminded himself, so he had to keep the talk going. "Where are you guys from, then? And what are you going to be studying?" He looked at the origami bird and dragon curiously. "They're good," he added politely before his attention was caught by the teacher introducing herself.
Cato ignored Ms. Ravenscroft; she was an alchemy teacher so he knew who she was, but, just in case this girl didn't know her, he was silent as she introduced herself. He almost smirked at her notebook. "I'm Cato Watson, and I'm a fourth year." He was about to ask for her own year, but he guessed she was either in second or third, though he suspected the former. "Who are you?" He found her notebook originally as amusing, but now that he thought about it, he should have one of them if he wanted to make new friends. He opened his bag, perfectly organised. "Would you like a snack?" he asked, deciding that, if she needed a book of ice breakers, she not only wanted to converse, but also didn't know how to properly have one, and, as an older student, he was supposed to make the younger years feel better about their weird magic school, right?
Aaron didn't like the question, because it was more complicated than he wanted to. He'd moved around a lot, so he opted to be vague rather than ignore her. "North of here..." He decided to leave it at that. Describing his life story would probably freak these girls or think of him as a coward. "I've lived in different places." He hoped that was it for the question and answer of their conversation. He didn't mind talking as long as it wasn't about him, so he redirected the attention from him to them. He started this mess in the first place, he reminded himself, so he had to keep the talk going. "Where are you guys from, then? And what are you going to be studying?" He looked at the origami bird and dragon curiously. "They're good," he added politely before his attention was caught by the teacher introducing herself.
Cato ignored Ms. Ravenscroft; she was an alchemy teacher so he knew who she was, but, just in case this girl didn't know her, he was silent as she introduced herself. He almost smirked at her notebook. "I'm Cato Watson, and I'm a fourth year." He was about to ask for her own year, but he guessed she was either in second or third, though he suspected the former. "Who are you?" He found her notebook originally as amusing, but now that he thought about it, he should have one of them if he wanted to make new friends. He opened his bag, perfectly organised. "Would you like a snack?" he asked, deciding that, if she needed a book of ice breakers, she not only wanted to converse, but also didn't know how to properly have one, and, as an older student, he was supposed to make the younger years feel better about their weird magic school, right?
Celaenia wasn’t much for talking about her past, so she settled with, “Georgia, America.” She resumed origami again, although now she seemed to be folding aimlessly, forming a puzzle-like brick. “Thanks,” she said to his compliment. She tapped the dragon on the head. “I think I’ll call this one Smaug.”
Celaenia wasn’t much for talking about her past, so she settled with, “Georgia, America.” She resumed origami again, although now she seemed to be folding aimlessly, forming a puzzle-like brick. “Thanks,” she said to his compliment. She tapped the dragon on the head. “I think I’ll call this one Smaug.”
Live today. Don’t wait for tomorrow.
"I'm from Brittish Columbia, in Canada," Ari said quickly. As interested in getting to know these people as she was, neither of them seemed to really want to talk about themselves... or anything. "Oh and I'm studying natural magic, it seemed fitting cuz I know a lot about plantlife already and uh... yeah.
"I'm from Brittish Columbia, in Canada," Ari said quickly. As interested in getting to know these people as she was, neither of them seemed to really want to talk about themselves... or anything. "Oh and I'm studying natural magic, it seemed fitting cuz I know a lot about plantlife already and uh... yeah.
Kat sighed in relief when the boy, Cato, answered her question normally. Which was strange, because wasn't that how people were supposed to act? Keeping her head down, she said, "My name is Kat. Second year." She fiddled with the pages of her notebook. "Um...and sure! I would love some, thanks." Wow, this conversation is my best one yet, Kat thought, smiling a little.
Kat sighed in relief when the boy, Cato, answered her question normally. Which was strange, because wasn't that how people were supposed to act? Keeping her head down, she said, "My name is Kat. Second year." She fiddled with the pages of her notebook. "Um...and sure! I would love some, thanks." Wow, this conversation is my best one yet, Kat thought, smiling a little.
Aaron nodded at their replies. It seemed there was going to be quite a diverse bunch among them. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, they didn't seem to be a talkative bunch. He turned back to his Rubik's cube, finishing it with a bored expression and a sigh. Clearly he wasn't going to be able to entertain himself with it for the length of this journey. He regretted taking it out of his bag earlier.
Cato smiled, looking through his bag for snacks. He didn't have a lot, but he had chocolate. Opening the packet carefully, he offered the bar to her so that she could take some. "If you're nervous about the new year than you shouldn't be. Second year isn't nearly as daunting as first," he suggested, since she seemed a little anxious, fidgeting with her notebook. Maybe it was because she was conversing in the first place.
Aaron nodded at their replies. It seemed there was going to be quite a diverse bunch among them. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, they didn't seem to be a talkative bunch. He turned back to his Rubik's cube, finishing it with a bored expression and a sigh. Clearly he wasn't going to be able to entertain himself with it for the length of this journey. He regretted taking it out of his bag earlier.
Cato smiled, looking through his bag for snacks. He didn't have a lot, but he had chocolate. Opening the packet carefully, he offered the bar to her so that she could take some. "If you're nervous about the new year than you shouldn't be. Second year isn't nearly as daunting as first," he suggested, since she seemed a little anxious, fidgeting with her notebook. Maybe it was because she was conversing in the first place.
Jumping a little in surprise when a loud yell disrupted their eltrance in their music, their only break of the year ending a bit quicker than they would've wanted. The rest of the times I'd when the energy kicks in and such patience is then rare to get from Em. They looked around only to see a girl chasing an animal around, presumably her pet as the other who they now remember as Lillie said a name. Pulling the device out of their ear along with the previous motion, they shoved it into their pocket hastily. Smiling nervously, they were a little surprised that Peaka’s coming at their direction. If it weren’t because of their fear, the hybrid looking creature would’ve almost made them smile, However, most animals don't go well with them; best case scenario they are ignored, worst case they'd be running for their life. Especially the less “normal” ones, as they tend to be able to sense magic.
Which led to them developing a small fear of animals, especially animals chasing them. It only started after they came to Redtome, though Em knew exactly why it's happening. That time when they ran and crashed right into glass was not a pleasant experience to say the least. Or tripping and-- anyways, they nearly turn to scamper away before realizing Peeka wasn't coming for them and let out a long relieved sigh, though still cautiously watching it with attentive eyes. Taking a minor step back, only the voice of Professor Sharp brought them back from their stupor and they noticed right after that the bus arrived too.
Wow, dragon wings. Now that’s epic.
Though they still liked last year’s feathery ones better, Em must admit these make the school bus look powerful in some ways. They almost wondered if they might be able to touch it some way or another. Forgetting the presence of Peeka for a moment, they chuckled when the younger boy by the girl who they remember from previous shadow classes exclaimed. Themselves was so fascinated by the wings every single year that they may or may not have picked up a fallen feather from the last year. Of course, than a teacher just had to go pull Em away saying something about “Shouldn’t put yourself in danger” and they ended up getting detention. It was worth it though, and they still have it till this day stowed away safely; stowed away somewhere in their messed up duffle bag that is.
Watching the two converse, they didn’t want to interrupt and stayed silent, though clearly wanted to say something. Their patience points for the entire year pretty much was used up when they were reading, which also reminded Em to stow away the book for the ride as reading on the bus (and any mobiles) always made them nauseous. Besides, they’re sure enough that they had done all they can because some of the pages are running out of space for writing. Although they would never admit it, reading was actually quite … fun. That might just be because there’s nothing to do often in the summer though, especially in the weeks with their parents where they often just sat around doing nothing. They never told anyone much about anything that involves Memphis’ family, so there were no friends to pass time.
Unfortunately while standing there they never got the chance, and as their persistent mind already set on talking to the girl now. Grabbing their luggage behind them without looking, they quickly caught up to the other with swift steps and not even breaking a sweat. It might look weird that It's just following them … Nah, it’s now or never.
“Hey! Uh hello, I’m Memphis! Yeah I know, the city name. It’s where my parents are from so. But heh you can call me whatever you want.” Giving their best grin, his unoccupied right hand was swinging a little by their side as they walked onto the bus with the other. “Mind if I ask for your name? I have a terrible memory.” Rubbing their hand on the soft hair on the backside of their skull, their voice was higher than other boys in their age but also lower than other girls. Em’s steps had a little bit of bounce in them, like some young child going to an amusement park; except they are 15 and going to school instead. But hell this school is better than any other school they’d ever attend, and Em had traveled to a lot of places.
Only half listening to Professor Ravenscroft’s speech, they dragged their suitcase along and found an empty seat. Specifically, near the Lillie who the one that Peeka liked was catching up to. They weren’t sure why but sort of just expected the other to also sit next to Em, even though they barely talked before in previous years. They had a habit of assuming people as at least acquaintances, not that there are still enemies in the school who wouldn’t hesitate to trip the tall 15 year old. Putting their bag on their knees, they were in a seat closer to the windows. Of course, they’re ok if the other didn’t want to -Em would just have to go squish with someone else; the social animal will probably die if left alone on a bus ride too long.
Jumping a little in surprise when a loud yell disrupted their eltrance in their music, their only break of the year ending a bit quicker than they would've wanted. The rest of the times I'd when the energy kicks in and such patience is then rare to get from Em. They looked around only to see a girl chasing an animal around, presumably her pet as the other who they now remember as Lillie said a name. Pulling the device out of their ear along with the previous motion, they shoved it into their pocket hastily. Smiling nervously, they were a little surprised that Peaka’s coming at their direction. If it weren’t because of their fear, the hybrid looking creature would’ve almost made them smile, However, most animals don't go well with them; best case scenario they are ignored, worst case they'd be running for their life. Especially the less “normal” ones, as they tend to be able to sense magic.
Which led to them developing a small fear of animals, especially animals chasing them. It only started after they came to Redtome, though Em knew exactly why it's happening. That time when they ran and crashed right into glass was not a pleasant experience to say the least. Or tripping and-- anyways, they nearly turn to scamper away before realizing Peeka wasn't coming for them and let out a long relieved sigh, though still cautiously watching it with attentive eyes. Taking a minor step back, only the voice of Professor Sharp brought them back from their stupor and they noticed right after that the bus arrived too.
Wow, dragon wings. Now that’s epic.
Though they still liked last year’s feathery ones better, Em must admit these make the school bus look powerful in some ways. They almost wondered if they might be able to touch it some way or another. Forgetting the presence of Peeka for a moment, they chuckled when the younger boy by the girl who they remember from previous shadow classes exclaimed. Themselves was so fascinated by the wings every single year that they may or may not have picked up a fallen feather from the last year. Of course, than a teacher just had to go pull Em away saying something about “Shouldn’t put yourself in danger” and they ended up getting detention. It was worth it though, and they still have it till this day stowed away safely; stowed away somewhere in their messed up duffle bag that is.
Watching the two converse, they didn’t want to interrupt and stayed silent, though clearly wanted to say something. Their patience points for the entire year pretty much was used up when they were reading, which also reminded Em to stow away the book for the ride as reading on the bus (and any mobiles) always made them nauseous. Besides, they’re sure enough that they had done all they can because some of the pages are running out of space for writing. Although they would never admit it, reading was actually quite … fun. That might just be because there’s nothing to do often in the summer though, especially in the weeks with their parents where they often just sat around doing nothing. They never told anyone much about anything that involves Memphis’ family, so there were no friends to pass time.
Unfortunately while standing there they never got the chance, and as their persistent mind already set on talking to the girl now. Grabbing their luggage behind them without looking, they quickly caught up to the other with swift steps and not even breaking a sweat. It might look weird that It's just following them … Nah, it’s now or never.
“Hey! Uh hello, I’m Memphis! Yeah I know, the city name. It’s where my parents are from so. But heh you can call me whatever you want.” Giving their best grin, his unoccupied right hand was swinging a little by their side as they walked onto the bus with the other. “Mind if I ask for your name? I have a terrible memory.” Rubbing their hand on the soft hair on the backside of their skull, their voice was higher than other boys in their age but also lower than other girls. Em’s steps had a little bit of bounce in them, like some young child going to an amusement park; except they are 15 and going to school instead. But hell this school is better than any other school they’d ever attend, and Em had traveled to a lot of places.
Only half listening to Professor Ravenscroft’s speech, they dragged their suitcase along and found an empty seat. Specifically, near the Lillie who the one that Peeka liked was catching up to. They weren’t sure why but sort of just expected the other to also sit next to Em, even though they barely talked before in previous years. They had a habit of assuming people as at least acquaintances, not that there are still enemies in the school who wouldn’t hesitate to trip the tall 15 year old. Putting their bag on their knees, they were in a seat closer to the windows. Of course, they’re ok if the other didn’t want to -Em would just have to go squish with someone else; the social animal will probably die if left alone on a bus ride too long.
Luke's smile remained as the girl gave him a reply to his questions. He found himself glancing down at the content Peeka in his arms, a heartwarming feeling forming in his chest. He was glad to hear that the older girl was doing fine, even if her clothes were dirty. He wouldn't push her any further; he didn't want to make anyone flee from his presence. He thought he was doing well enough so far.
He chuckled a bit when she told him that he could hold Peeka for the ride, especially when the animal snarled in response to the comment. He was pretty sure that noise was supposed to be playful; that's how he saw it, anyway. He swore he got some of that positivity from his sister. He took a glance behind him to see that she was with the student who had previously been standing near them. He then returned his gaze to the girl next to him as she introduced herself.
"Nice to meet you, Bates," he replied warmly. He would've shaken her hand if both of his weren't occupied, though, she seemed to realize this as well. He followed her onto the dragon bus - which he was now going to call the Smaug Bus just because - and made sure she didn't need any help with her trunk before taking a seat next to her. He held Peeka a bit closer to himself, his mind racing with possibilities that he couldn't individually focus on.
He payed attention to Professor Ravenscroft as she spoke, his smile growing slightly. He laughed at her Hobbit reference, feeling the urge to wink. He usually did that when he understood a reference. However, he couldn't wink with his exposed eye, so he didn't even bother. No one would be able to see the eye covered by his hair, unless they had vision that could see through hair or something like that. No... that was stupid. Even with the existence of magic and wonderful possibilities, something like that sounded stupid to him.
He accidentally gasped when the bus lifted off, feeling his stomach drop. He had only been on this vehicle - or was it a creature? - once, and this was his second time. He had nearly thrown up the last time he was a passenger on the Smaug Bus, which didn't even have the draconic wings at the time. It wasn't nearly as bad as last year, and he was happy for that.
Luke looked down at Peeka in his arms, seeing something that worried him a little. It didn't seem as though the creature was enjoying the ride too much. Without thinking about it, he gently stroked Peeka's fur, trying his best to comfort her. He limited the rest of his movement, as he didn't want to jostle her further; the bus was already doing that job. He looked over at Bates after a moment of finally getting used to the altitude.
"So what year are you?" he asked, tilting his head a little. "I'm a second year... I think that means I get to aim for a specific class this year. I think. I haven't been reading psyche books for nothing, after all." He chuckled after finishing. He was going for that class specifically this year. His studying would not go to waste.
Gwen was delighted as she looked behind her to see the student she had noticed earlier swiftly joining her. She was impressed with how they weren't breaking a single sweat. She tended to tire out rather quickly while running in the cold, due to how it affected her breathing. She glanced at her brother while he was in front of her, grateful that he was actually conversing with someone other than her. The adorable animal he was holding seemed to like him, even though the creature didn't belong to him.
She returned her attention to the student who presented an introduction, and she found herself smiling. "Hello," she greeted in return, chuckling. "Don't worry, I like your name. Memphis! I like it a lot!" She paused for a moment, wondering if that came off wrong somehow. Her positivity immediately wiped her doubt away. Save it for the exams. "Oh wait! I recognize that name! Dang, I seriously need to step up my memorization game..."
She let out a laugh before following Em to an empty seat on the bus, grateful that it was close to where Luke and Lillie were sitting. Her smile reflected kindness as they asked for her name, sitting right next to them when they took a seat. "It's okay! I don't mind. As I mentioned before, my memory isn't acting the best either..." She paused for a moment before continuing. "I'm Gwen Levi. You can honestly call me by either my first or last name... heck, just call me whatever you want. I won't mind at all, it's the least I can do, since you said I can call you whatever I want."
She was about to say something else - what it was, she couldn't actually recall - but she was stopped by the arrival of Professor Ravenscroft. She really liked her, and she enjoyed hearing her speak to the other students. She was so bubbly, so nice! She almost clapped when the professor was done with her little speech, chuckling at the Hobbit reference. She knew Luke would understand that one as well.
She nearly let out a whoop of joy as the bus ascended into the sky, enjoying the feeling of her stomach dropping without her ears popping. She had chewed mint gum before arriving at the field, so she would be just fine. She was used to this by now, being that this was her fourth year. She looked out the window, her eyes shimmering with delight. Now this was more like it!
"Don't you love this feeling?" she asked Em, resting her arms behind her head as she leaned back amiably. "We're off to a brand new year! I can't wait to get back to the Shadow class, I'm gonna be at my A-game! Not that I wasn't in the years before this one... anyways, enough about myself. What about you? Aren't you excited?"
Luke's smile remained as the girl gave him a reply to his questions. He found himself glancing down at the content Peeka in his arms, a heartwarming feeling forming in his chest. He was glad to hear that the older girl was doing fine, even if her clothes were dirty. He wouldn't push her any further; he didn't want to make anyone flee from his presence. He thought he was doing well enough so far.
He chuckled a bit when she told him that he could hold Peeka for the ride, especially when the animal snarled in response to the comment. He was pretty sure that noise was supposed to be playful; that's how he saw it, anyway. He swore he got some of that positivity from his sister. He took a glance behind him to see that she was with the student who had previously been standing near them. He then returned his gaze to the girl next to him as she introduced herself.
"Nice to meet you, Bates," he replied warmly. He would've shaken her hand if both of his weren't occupied, though, she seemed to realize this as well. He followed her onto the dragon bus - which he was now going to call the Smaug Bus just because - and made sure she didn't need any help with her trunk before taking a seat next to her. He held Peeka a bit closer to himself, his mind racing with possibilities that he couldn't individually focus on.
He payed attention to Professor Ravenscroft as she spoke, his smile growing slightly. He laughed at her Hobbit reference, feeling the urge to wink. He usually did that when he understood a reference. However, he couldn't wink with his exposed eye, so he didn't even bother. No one would be able to see the eye covered by his hair, unless they had vision that could see through hair or something like that. No... that was stupid. Even with the existence of magic and wonderful possibilities, something like that sounded stupid to him.
He accidentally gasped when the bus lifted off, feeling his stomach drop. He had only been on this vehicle - or was it a creature? - once, and this was his second time. He had nearly thrown up the last time he was a passenger on the Smaug Bus, which didn't even have the draconic wings at the time. It wasn't nearly as bad as last year, and he was happy for that.
Luke looked down at Peeka in his arms, seeing something that worried him a little. It didn't seem as though the creature was enjoying the ride too much. Without thinking about it, he gently stroked Peeka's fur, trying his best to comfort her. He limited the rest of his movement, as he didn't want to jostle her further; the bus was already doing that job. He looked over at Bates after a moment of finally getting used to the altitude.
"So what year are you?" he asked, tilting his head a little. "I'm a second year... I think that means I get to aim for a specific class this year. I think. I haven't been reading psyche books for nothing, after all." He chuckled after finishing. He was going for that class specifically this year. His studying would not go to waste.
Gwen was delighted as she looked behind her to see the student she had noticed earlier swiftly joining her. She was impressed with how they weren't breaking a single sweat. She tended to tire out rather quickly while running in the cold, due to how it affected her breathing. She glanced at her brother while he was in front of her, grateful that he was actually conversing with someone other than her. The adorable animal he was holding seemed to like him, even though the creature didn't belong to him.
She returned her attention to the student who presented an introduction, and she found herself smiling. "Hello," she greeted in return, chuckling. "Don't worry, I like your name. Memphis! I like it a lot!" She paused for a moment, wondering if that came off wrong somehow. Her positivity immediately wiped her doubt away. Save it for the exams. "Oh wait! I recognize that name! Dang, I seriously need to step up my memorization game..."
She let out a laugh before following Em to an empty seat on the bus, grateful that it was close to where Luke and Lillie were sitting. Her smile reflected kindness as they asked for her name, sitting right next to them when they took a seat. "It's okay! I don't mind. As I mentioned before, my memory isn't acting the best either..." She paused for a moment before continuing. "I'm Gwen Levi. You can honestly call me by either my first or last name... heck, just call me whatever you want. I won't mind at all, it's the least I can do, since you said I can call you whatever I want."
She was about to say something else - what it was, she couldn't actually recall - but she was stopped by the arrival of Professor Ravenscroft. She really liked her, and she enjoyed hearing her speak to the other students. She was so bubbly, so nice! She almost clapped when the professor was done with her little speech, chuckling at the Hobbit reference. She knew Luke would understand that one as well.
She nearly let out a whoop of joy as the bus ascended into the sky, enjoying the feeling of her stomach dropping without her ears popping. She had chewed mint gum before arriving at the field, so she would be just fine. She was used to this by now, being that this was her fourth year. She looked out the window, her eyes shimmering with delight. Now this was more like it!
"Don't you love this feeling?" she asked Em, resting her arms behind her head as she leaned back amiably. "We're off to a brand new year! I can't wait to get back to the Shadow class, I'm gonna be at my A-game! Not that I wasn't in the years before this one... anyways, enough about myself. What about you? Aren't you excited?"
