Hogwarts: A New Era; REBOOT IC

[Novacom]

Hogwarts: A New Era, Book 1: The Goblin's Tithe

Dear young wizards and witches,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find list enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on September 1st. We await your owl by no later than July 31.

Sincerely,

Lupe Laroque, Headmaster of Hogwarts

It has been over 30 years since the Boy who Lived vanquished He Who Must Not Be Named, and in the wake of this the Wizarding world has been forever changed as it enters a new era. One that had initially been heralded through with great pomp and ceremony as an Era of Change, An Era of peace, An Era of Stability and an Era of Reform, despite however auspicious and hopeful beginnings things were not to last. The slow burning flame of Squib Protests, Goblin Riots and a worrying myriad of other occurrences. Change has been slow and some of the entrenched wizarding elite wary of what these changes could bring have stymied the more profound and comprehensive efforts and as a result old grievances are beginning to arise once more, and some begin to whisper in secret that the terror of the past could return, or worse another Wizard War. Matters have not been helped as of late with the kidnapping and subsequent murder of the Minister of Magic and the abrupt and unexpected disappearance of Thorfinn Elesmere

Despite this life goes on, and as ever young wizards and witches travel to Hogwarts on the Hogwarts express to begin their own magical journey, forge your own character with their own and embark on a magical journey. Which house will you be in? Will you find friends? Will you succeed in your classes? Will you make the Quidditch team? Will you find love? Will you be tempted to join the dark forces on the rise? The choice is up to you! Let the magic begin!

IC:

CO-OPs: Yalos, Corrian and Lorellion

Rules:

1. I am the OP, so what I say goes. Any CO-OP I appoint will speak with my voice when I am unavailable.
2. No God-modding, meta-gaming, etc., etc. Basically, be fair and don't make your character perfect.
3. You may make as many students or Ministry officials as you would like, but don't go overboard. You are limited to one professor. You may make your student any year, but I recommend being a first year and any Professors or Ministry officials will be held to a much higher standard than students.
4. Be polite and mature.
5. Be realistic. Sure this RP is about magic, but be logical. A first year will not be able to do complex magic.
6. No canon characters, unless I give you explicit permission.
7. If you are going to be inactive, TG me or post it to the thread.
8. No one-liners! Put some effort into your posts.
9. Despite advances of technology in the muggle world none of it works at Hogwarts so no Magical MP3 Players or Tablets
10. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your time at Hogwarts!

OOC Thread: viewtopic.php?f=31&t=325299

[Novacom]

The tall lean figure gazed out forlornedly through the large window it’s flint shade eyes looking out upon the lake and it’s disturbed surface, rain pelted down at a furious pace tugged at only gently by the wind. He raised an aged hand to tug at the greying mustache that framed either side of his mouth his wizened face deep in contemplation, such moments were always the calm before the storm, behind him a colourfully dressed man and a goblin were engaged in an argument.

“Very well,” growled the Goblin after an extended lull in the ruckus, tapping the tips of his long gnarled fingers together, he turned his face to the figure at the window “your tithe is paid,” he rumbled before stalking out before striding through the door he turned his head back, his long nose seemingly pointing straight at the other, “As for yours, well we shall see, but you know better than any other, A Goblin’s Tithe must be met!”

It had been a somewhat active summer for the wizarding world, beginning with something of a bang with the abrupt kidnapping of the recently elected Minister of Magic Loxias at a similar time Headmaster Thorfinn Elesmere had disappeared which ordinarily would not have been remarked upon due to his reputation for eccentricities. However due to the situation a panic had ensued with sensationalist rumours flying freely and accusations were rife, matters were not helped by numerous Goblin Riots most notably one outside of Gringotts which was rapidly dispersed by the goblins of the bank itself. In the aftermath of this the magical community had been united in it’s desire for order and normality but divided about how to achieve this, it was at this time that an old face returned to politics, Ludo Bagman former head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports and was swiftly named Minister of Magic.

He swiftly took stock of the situation easing tensions somewhat and installing Lupe Laroque as Headmaster at Hogwarts, such information released the day before a new generation of witches and wizards would board the train for school was warily received…

Come now, you’ll want to get good seats on the train,” called out the soft and warm tones of Amelia Anvar, her raven black hair elaborately styled and secured in place with two crossed sticks, her gentle jade gaze somehow managing to keep track of the small army around her, Andros, Alexis, Alexa, Alexios and Alexius were all towing trollies while another five milled round close. The smallest of which clung to his mothers long black robes and smiled as his head was gently patted, they had just passed through the barrier onto platform 9¾’s passing by a sleepy looking ministry wizard in deep purple robes.

He was for the most part obscured by a copy of the Daily Prophet from which a picture of a jolly older man smiled and laughed and waved at passers-by, the weather left much to be desired the sky was grey and populated with aggressively moving clouds whipped around by the unseen winds while rain steadily pelted all below. The weather had steadily been growing worse since the early morning, this however did not deter Andros who cast his gaze around looking for some of his friends from last year while his mother ushered the pair of twins onto the train before they could get up to something.

[Nuridia]

Pandora Strange
"Well, off for another stunning year at Hogwarts." a distinctly Italian accented voice spoke as she and her family arrived at the King's Cross Station. Pandora Strange stood in waiting with her family, her long black hair in a sleek braid and her Ravenclaw scarf around her neck. "Dio mia, why is it always so cold in England?" her brother Santo exclaimed, shivering. With their dark olive skin and dark hair, the family certainly stood out. "I don't know, probably because they live up higher than us." Pandora's younger sister Donatella breathed in the chilly weather. Pandora looked around the platform trying to spot her English boyfriend Jacob, these were the only times they really got to see each other apart from phone calls and letters and she was looking forward to spending time with him again.

Isobelle Ravenscroft
]Meanwhile just a few feet away there was another family who was also waiting. A stunningly gorgeous blonde woman with piercing blue eyes was standing next to her husband, gray eyes and tousled dark hair a sharp contrast to his wife's looks. Standing near them were their children, all very stunningly good looking, almost inhumanly beautiful especially the girls. One supposed this was due to their Veela ancestry as their mother, Gabrielle Delacour-Ravenscroft was a quarter Veela just like her more well known elder sister Fleur who married into the Weasley family. Gabrielle however met and married Edward Ravenscroft, one of the older pure-blood families of England while she was traveling to visit Fleur and her family. Their children, five of them all went to Hogwarts but the youngest, Isobelle was just starting her second year today. Isobelle adjusted her Hufflepuff robes and tucked a strawberry-blonde curl back into the black and gold ribbon she had tied it up in. Shy, small and not really much of a talker, Isobelle had a harder time adjusting to life in Hogwarts especially as a Seeker. As Seeker for her house, she had always tended to fly away from the Snitch when it got too close because she was afraid. Her older brother Raphael clapped her shoulder. "It's alright Bell Bell, we'll look out for you just fine." he smiled. "Thanks Raph." the blonde said with a small smile of her own.

[The greater Vakolicci Haven]

"Yes, mother, I have it all," Robert Christin had wthe worst task of the entire year: shooing off his mother. Confident that he had forgotten something, as he never did, the tall angular woman pressed on, until the handsome, well-muscled teenager beside her simply said a curt goodbye and walked into the press of new and returning students, hoping to find someone who he recognised; the trunk nearly filling his trolley, and his black owl sitting proudly in his cage atop it.

[Tomia]

Jacob Roslan
Jacob Roslan entered platform 9 and 3/4 with his mother and father as he had done the past 3 years. He was very excited to go back to school. Not only because he loved being at Hogwarts, but also because that was where he got to spend time with his girlfriend, Pandora Strange. They had met in their second year but never really thought much of each other at the time. Pandora often seemed to think that Jacob was a meat head who just acted stupid, and she wasn't entirely wrong. Jacob had acted very childishly in his first few years and was still a bit of a prankster. But last year he started to grow up a bit and he and Pandora became good friends, eventually realizing they had feelings for each other. He hated being away from her for the summer and couldn't wait to see her again. As he walked with his parents his young owl Wandle chirped curiously. Jacob was looking around for Pandora and finally spotted her family. Their distinct Italian looks didn't make them hard to find. He smiled brightly and rushed over as his parents followed. "Pandora! " He called out to her as he approached, waving happily to her.
Walter Witten
Walter entered platform 9 and 3/4 alone and looked out at the large crowd. His parents had already said good bye to him before he entered. They were muggles and Walter wasn't even sure if they could enter the platform. He was entering his second year at Hogwarts and had become more sure about magic and his abilities. His friends had helped him along although there were moments that terrified him he was a stronger person for them. Walter had grown an inch or two and his brown hair was a little longer now. He stood alone the platform next to a few other families and waited for the train to arrive. He wondered what to expect from this new year at Hogwarts.

[Nuridia]

Saladin was jotting down some notes for his new book when he heard a shout and looked up, his graying black hair blew a little in the wind. "Pandora, I believe that there's somebody who wants to get your attention." he told his daughter, gesturing to Jacob who was calling to her. Pandora looked up and grinned at the sight of Jacob, running up to him. "Jacob, it's been so long!" she told her boyfriend excitedly, jumping into his arms while Santo pretended to cough in slight disapproval.

[Tomia]

Jacob smiled brightly when Pandora came running to him and jumped into his arms. He wrapped his arms around her and held her warmly. He heard Santo's disapproval but that couldn't dampen his mood. Santo didn't really seem to be Jacob's biggest fan and was very protective of Pandora. Jacob tried not to let it bother him. "I missed you so much Pandora. It's so great to see you again." He told her softly as they hugged. Jacob's parents Amalia and Johnathan Rosen approached Pandora's parents. "Saladin, it's great to see you again." Amalia said kindly in greeting.
Damian Rasman
Damian and his family made their way into 9 and 3/4 with their luggage as they approached the platform. They all wore very well made clothing and we're dressed nicely. Damian was walking with his younger sister who was to be sorted that year. She has lighter brown hair and light green eyes. Damian was a very popular student in Hogwarts and was well known in the school. He enjoyed the attention a lot, and liked to be praised. He stood waiting for the train and waved to a number of his friends that he had seen.

[Fesconia]

Ardan and Aura Delamek

Both Ardan and Aura stood just outside of the secret entrance to the platform that only Wizards could access. Their parents were there with them, giving them a final goodbye. Their father was a muggle, so he couldn't enter like them. It must have seemed strange to onlookers, them wishing farewell to each other when there wasn't a train.

They then entered 9 and 3/4, waving one last time just before they went inside, pulling their luggages along with them. They made their way through the crowd, recognising both new and familiar faces, ready to begin the next school year. They stopped at an empty area and proceeded to wait till the train arrived, which was probably not so far off.

Ardan noticed Walter from last year standing by himself a short distance away. He was also in Ravenclaw, just like him and his sister. Ardan walked over to him, pulling his suitcase along with him.
"Hi! How are you?" He asked when he got there.

[Nuridia]

"As it is good to see you again, Mrs. and Mr. Rosen." Saladin greeted Jacob's parents just as kindly. His wife Giovanna, Pandora's mother greeted them as well. She was a plump and pleasant woman who was a genius in the kitchen and in other fields as her family said. "Hi Mrs. Rosen!" Donatella greeted Amalia. She was twelve years old and went to a wizarding school in Italy although her parents said she could go to Hogwarts next year if her transfer came through. "It's so good to see you again too, I've missed you veyr much." Pandora told Jacob, kissing his cheek. A few feet away, Isobelle prepared to go and get on the train, hugging her parents goodbye. "Au revoir, ma petite belle. Be safe." Gabrielle told her youngest, kissing both her cheeks in the French fashion and did the same to her other children. Isobelle's siblings, Theodore, Raphael, Elizabeth and Margaret went to go put their luggage on the train. Two of them were actually in Slytherin, Isobelle wanted to be in a more popular house but her attitube fit more with Hufflepuff. Her large gray eyes scanned the platform for some of her friends and widened when she saw a very handsome boy who looked to be about her age. He had dark hair and sapphire eyes just like her brother Theodore, but he had a more haughty and aristocratic manner about him. The shade her strawberry blonde hair was, it nearly appeared a pale golden coral or yellowish pink color. She saw the green in his robes as he walked with a young girl, he was a Slytherin! From what she heard, most Slytherin didn't take too kindly to other houses, especially Hufflepuffs and her golden robes were a dead give away. Deciding to ignore him for now but not being able to look away, she marched up the platform with her siblings.

[Ancian]

Mark Smith

He walked onto platform 9 and 3/4 looking like he was being arrested. He wasn't wearing his uniform, instead, he wore a gray cut off and jeans. He looked like a nice guy, with muscles. Lots of muscles, which came from being a beater for Hufflepuff. His wavy golden brown hair and toned, strong arms usually left a good impression. His dad, coincidentally, was a officers for the Department of Law Enforcement, so he looked like he was bringing him in. Anyone there the last 3, this year being the 4, would recognize the joke. He could usually get a few first years though. In his trunk, he had the usual school things and quidditch robes. Following beside him was his male honey badger pet, Brass, a great pet. It was also a sure sign he was from Hufflepuff. He knew he didn't look it, and sometimes didn't act it, but he knew himself well enough to know he had each and every one Hufflepuff trait, he just didn't always exhibit them. As such, he entered the area with his dad pretending to arrest him. They got on pretty good, although his dad would have to leave after the joke was over, but they did every year. For tradition.

[Tomia]

Walter
Walter was standing on the platform when he heard someone call to him and saw his friend from last year, Ardan approaching him. "Hi Ardan, long time no see." Walter said kindly, waving in greeting.
Jacob
The Rosens greeted Pandora's parents kindly and then Amalia smiled when young Donatella greeted her. "Donatella, it's great to see you again. How have you been my dear?" Jacob smiled when Pandora kissed his cheek. "I've missed you too. Letters and calls just aren't the same. I have a surprise for you too. Mum and Dad said I can spend the summer with you in Italy. I mean, if you want me to that ism" he said to her with a smile.
Damian
Damian was holding his younger sister's hand as they walked around the platform after saying good bye to their family. He then saw a girl his age looking at him with wide eyes. It wasn't a huge surprise to him, girls would often approach him or loon at him because of his looks. He thought she was pretty as well but he could tell by her demeanor that she was very shy. He flashed a charming smile at her and gave a friendly wave before she walked away with what seemed to be her siblings.

[Kazirstan]

Lina

Lina sat in one of the many compartments of the Hogwarts Express, she was one of the first students aboard. While many of the others were greeting friends and exchanging long goodbyes with family members, she had simply given her father and brother a hug and a promise to write home often. When she walked across the platform toward the train, she had glimpsed many students hugging and kissing and talking animatedly about their breaks. At this, she felt a pang of jealousy, and a bit of anger.

She knew she shouldn't be angry, it wasn't Liam's fault he left, nor was it his mother's. They had to go into hiding, or risk losing their lives. She didn't even know where he was, so she couldn't write him, it was like he had disappeared, or never even existed in the first place.

She tore her eyes away from the window and the commotion on the platform, and began stroking her bird - Scania - on the head. At this, he gave an indignant warble, and flew up onto the luggage rack, closing his eyes and ignoring her. Lina sighed and removed a book from her trunk to read. "This is going to be a long trip," she thought.

[Lorellion]

Ella Fedele

Ella closed her eyes as she stepped through Platform 9 3/4. She felt a cool sensation and then she was standing directly in front of the scarlet train engine. She looked back to see her grandparents stepping out from the wall behind her. She turned around and gave them both a weak smile.

"You're sure you're ready to go back dear? Nobody would blame you if you didn't go back straight away." Her grandmother looked at her concernedly.

"Oh Cynthia. The girl has been cooped up for the entire summer. She doesn't need any more time away from school." Her grandfather gave Ella a quick wink.

Ella smiled. "I'm fine." Her grandmother raised her eyebrows. "Truly. I'll be fine. It'll be good to go back. I feel most at home when I'm at school."

Ella's grandmother smiled and gave a little chuckle. "Such an overachiever you are. So much like Loxi-" She cut off and suddenly burst into tears. "-ias!"

Ella looked at her grandmother carefully. She thinks he's dead... They all think he's dead... Her grandfather wrapped an arm around her grandmother.

"I'm going to get her home. You alright kiddo?"

Ella nodded and gave them both a hug. "I love you both." They both gave her a tight squeeze before going back through the platform. Ella turned around to face the Hogwarts Express.

[Tomia]

Walter
Walter soon saw his best friend Ella come on to the floor and felt excited and also a little nervous. He hadn't seen her all summer since the year ended. The terrible incident had happened less than a year ago when Ella's father went missing. He had written her often and wanted to see her, but respected her need for some space. When her grandparents had left he approached her slowly. "Hey Ella, I've missed you this summer. It's been too long." He told her softly as he stood nearby.

[Nuridia]

Walter
Walter was standing on the platform when he heard someone call to him and saw his friend from last year, Ardan approaching him. "Hi Ardan, long time no see." Walter said kindly, waving in greeting.
Jacob
The Rosens greeted Pandora's parents kindly and then Amalia smiled when young Donatella greeted her. "Donatella, it's great to see you again. How have you been my dear?" Jacob smiled when Pandora kissed his cheek. "I've missed you too. Letters and calls just aren't the same. I have a surprise for you too. Mum and Dad said I can spend the summer with you in Italy. I mean, if you want me to that ism" he said to her with a smile.
Damian
Damian was holding his younger sister's hand as they walked around the platform after saying good bye to their family. He then saw a girl his age looking at him with wide eyes. It wasn't a huge surprise to him, girls would often approach him or loon at him because of his looks. He thought she was pretty as well but he could tell by her demeanor that she was very shy. He flashed a charming smile at her and gave a friendly wave before she walked away with what seemed to be her siblings.

"I'd love for you to spend the break with me sweetie, you'll get to see la bella Italia and have Mom's cooking every single day! Speaking of which, I have some of Mom's cooking right here." Pandora pulled out a wrapped plastic container which from the smell of it contained a homemade lunch. Isobelle blushed brightly at Damian's charming smile and stood frozen staring at him for a while before Elizabeth grabbed her sister by the arm and half carried her onto the train. "Bell Bell's in love, how cute!" Margaret teased, flipping her long brown hair over her shoulder. Isobelle blushed brightly in embarrassment. "Shut up Margaret!" she shouted, sitting down in a seat with her cat curled up in her lap.

[Tomia]

Jacob
Jacob smiled at Pandora's words. "That sounds awesome sweetie. Your mum's cooking is incredible." He told his girlfriend. He then watched as she pulled something from her bag and from its smell it was some of her mom's cooking. "Wow, that smells great." He then turned to Giovanna, "You're a really amazing cook Mrs. Strange." He said sincerely.
Damian
Damain saw Isobelle's reaction and couldn't help but smile. His little sister Amy looked confused, but didn't say anything. "Come on little sis, let's go get your luggage inside." As they walked Amy spoke, "Damian, what house do you think I'll be?" Damian smiled, "I don't know sis, but it doesn't really matter in the end. Don't limit yourself to what that old hat says. You be who you want to, and make friends with you want to." He told her with a smile. Amy nodded and grinned, "Alright big brother, I will." She said as they loaded their things onto the train.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Rebecca Cunningham-4th Year-15 Years Old
Late! I am running late! I screamed at myself in my head while I violently shoved my trolly in the direction of the mystical gateway known as 9 and 3/4s. My large family from Georgia in the American south many yards behind me, trying to keep up. Lori, my rat was cowering in a deep pocket on my school robe, a dusty one and hand me down at that, considering my families poor economic standing and large size, having to provide for so many children. My short and unkempt chestnut colored hair assaulted my vision as my long bangs bounced in front of my eyes. It was then that I read a sign with a large 9 etched upon it.

That must be it! I thought to myself as my parent's increasingly distant shouts grew inaudible. I ran as fast as I could manage, breathing heavily as I slammed right into a brick wall. Throwing my contents and baggage all over the platform. I had to pick myself up and look around, quickly noticing that I was now pancaked right in front of Platform 9. Not the magical, 9 and 3/4. It was then that my father finally caught up to me, and picked me back up. As I was quickly surrounded by a troop known as my family. Both of my parents and my five siblings. William began to bottle up with laughter as Paul and Hanna brushed me off.

Of my siblings, I am the only one being sent to Hogwarts. As while all of us have displayed magical talent. I am the only one who has expressed any interest in it rather than treating it as a minor curiousity.

"Becca, how many times do I have to tell you to slow down?" My mother echoed, oblivious to the now staring muggles, as they are called. Of which she is one. In fact, despite the magical blood in my father's side of the family going back centuries, it is now more accurate to say my family has more in common with muggles.

"At least once more mama." I droned in my southern drawl. She managed a smile.
"Well in that case, slow down sweetie. You will be fine." She then scooped up Lori and returned her to me. "Look you even scared the Jesus out of Lori." I quickly cupped the small rat, which had been my companion for 4 months now.
"Thank you mama, lets go. People are starting to notice us." I chimed as I pushed the now partially damaged contents cheerily on to what is known as 9 and 3/4. As if nothing had ever happened.

Finally making it to the platform, I said my final goodbyes and once more, attempted to charge what seemed to be a brick wall. Only this time, I passed through and in a moment, I had entered in what seemed to be another world. My mouth gaped open as I looked around, now separated form my family. And I soon made a sharp grin stretching the metaphorical ear to ear.



However, as I was now fast approaching the black engine of the train and passing by a crowd of departing witches and wizards, using my thin and plain body form to squeeze by, Lori popped its head out of my pocket and then scurried out, making a mad dash for the train. It skillfully skirted between the legs of various wizards and witches as I abandoned my baggage and gave chase.

"Lori!" I cried, racing once more through the crowds in my seemingly vain attempt to rescue the rodent. AS it climbed aboard the train, I had racked my brain trying to decipher a spell that would return the pet to me. As I have, in preparation for going to school studied some of the textbooks that my family purchased, but having never actually practiced any of them, as I drew my wand uttered some semblance of what used to be a spell and I know something went wrong because I was now covered in what seemed to be ash or burnt charcoal after a spectacle of a small explosion.

Wheezing, I had my eyes scan the scene and came to the conclusion that Lori was aboard the train, and so I dashed ahead, not even thinking about how I looked in what was likely my best clothes and quickly found Lori entering a cabin occupied by a young girl who was reading a book as I literally head dove into the cabin and grasped my pet in front of her. Laying on my stomach beneath her feet it was only then that I realized that I made what could have been the worst first impression in the history of first impressions and likely was not good for the diplomacy of American and English witches. Covered in ash I peered up at her, trying to wipe off the black smog from my face with the back of my hand instead making it much worse and gave a smile which must has seemed so white and bright in contrast to my cloaking myself in ash.

"Hey...dont mind if I find a seat here...do ya?" I asked, trying to save as much face as possible with the stupid grin on my face.

[Kazirstan]

Lina

Lina jumped about a foot in the air and let out a small shriek when a girl that looked to be covered in soot dove headfirst into the compartment. Above her, Scania let out a terrified call and circled around the compartment, smashing into the window and falling to the floor, his wings twitching.

But Lina payed no attention to her bird, her attention was focused on the girl on the floor. When the girl asked if Lina minded if she sat in the compartment, Lina lowered her wand, which she had instinctively drawn on the intruder, and opened her mouth to speak, but no sound came out. In fact, she minded very much, there were probably hundreds of other seats available on this train. But, not wanting to be rude, she said, "N-not at all." The girl looked to be taller than her, with short hair, probably around 14 or 15. That was about all she could make out, as the rest of her body was covered in a thick layer of soot.

Lina bent over to pick up Scania, who was now beginning to stir. Upon waking, the bird gave a grumbling warble and flew back into the luggage rack, glaring daggers at the new arrival.

[Ancian]

Mark Smith

He walked onto platform 9 and 3/4 looking like he was being arrested. He wasn't wearing his uniform, instead, he wore a gray cut off and jeans. He looked like a nice guy, with muscles. Lots of muscles, which came from being a beater for Hufflepuff. His wavy golden brown hair and toned, strong arms usually left a good impression. His dad, coincidentally, was a officers for the Department of Law Enforcement, so he looked like he was bringing him in. Anyone there the last 3, this year being the 4, would recognize the joke. He could usually get a few first years though. In his trunk, he had the usual school things and quidditch robes. Following beside him was his male honey badger pet, Brass, a great pet. It was also a sure sign he was from Hufflepuff. He knew he didn't look it, and sometimes didn't act it, but he knew himself well enough to know he had each and every one Hufflepuff trait, he just didn't always exhibit them. As such, he entered the area with his dad pretending to arrest him. They got on pretty good, although his dad would have to leave after the joke was over, but they did every year. For tradition.

He clapped his dads hand as he left for the train. They had a good laugh over some first years who thought he was being arrested. He thought of putting on his yellow quidditch robes, to signify he was proud of being a Hufflepuff and beater. He didn't, however, for the honey badger following him was a fairly good call to what house he was in. He might not look like he was a Hufflepuff, but he sure is proud of it. As mark climbed into the train. His broom in a nice extension on his case, he looked around for a place to sit, or for his friends.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Rebecca Cunningham-4th Year-15 Years Old

Lina

Lina jumped about a foot in the air and let out a small shriek when a girl that looked to be covered in soot dove headfirst into the compartment. Above her, Scania let out a terrified call and circled around the compartment, smashing into the window and falling to the floor, his wings twitching.

But Lina payed no attention to her bird, her attention was focused on the girl on the floor. When the girl asked if Lina minded if she sat in the compartment, Lina lowered her wand, which she had instinctively drawn on the intruder, and opened her mouth to speak, but no sound came out. In fact, she minded very much, there were probably hundreds of other seats available on this train. But, not wanting to be rude, she said, "N-not at all." The girl looked to be taller than her, with short hair, probably around 14 or 15. That was about all she could make out, as the rest of her body was covered in a thick layer of soot.

Lina bent over to pick up Scania, who was now beginning to stir. Upon waking, the bird gave a grumbling warble and flew back into the luggage rack, glaring daggers at the new arrival.

Completely overlooking the fact that I startled the girl, who had long copper hair, glasses, fair skin and freckles. I recovered myself and then sat down opposite of her. Excited by the prospect of finding a new friend. I noticed she was a few years younger than I. She mus have been around 11 or 12 at the oldest. I allowed Lori to skitter up my soot covered clothes and rest upon my shoulder, as she roamed from my left and right shoulders, I managed to find a clean cloth and begin to wipe away the soot from my face, finally clearing my complexion up a little bit. Brushing my hair recklessly to the side, I leaned back into the seat and began to chatter away. Again not noticing that the frightened girl was clearly not in the mood for any extended conversation.

"So, is this you first time to Hogwarts? You seem pretty young. But it is mine too, so dont worry about that." I commented passively as I noticed that her accent was actually not English at all, and then I realized that I would not be the only foreigner to be at the school.

"So, I noticed your accent. You not English, I am not either, I am from Georgia. Anyways, where are you from?" I questioned, now almost sounding like a interrogation. I continued to rattle way, equipped only with my own clothes, wand and my pet.

Entirely forgetting that all of my baggage was on the platform outside the train where I abandoned them.

[The Almighty Bob]

Steven McGanigan

Jacob Roslan
Walter Witten
Walter entered platform 9 and 3/4 alone and looked out at the large crowd. His parents had already said good bye to him before he entered. They were muggles and Walter wasn't even sure if they could enter the platform. He was entering his second year at Hogwarts and had become more sure about magic and his abilities. His friends had helped him along although there were moments that terrified him he was a stronger person for them. Walter had grown an inch or two and his brown hair was a little longer now. He stood alone the platform next to a few other families and waited for the train to arrive. He wondered what to expect from this new year at Hogwarts.

Steve walked into platform 9 3/4 for the second time in his life. And, once again, he was alone. His parents died in a car crash years ago, and he didn't have the fortune of having magical relatives (or, in fact, any relatives), so it was off to the orphanage he went. He had been contacted about the school and informed of a small trust fund, enough for about three years at Hogwarts, so he jumped at the chance to escape. He surveyed the platform, hoping to avoid any fights before he even got on his way, and settled on another loner just a few feet away who looked to be about his age. He walked over and introduced himself. "Hi! My name's Steve. What's your's?" He spoke with a slight brogue, barely detectable over the London accent he'd picked up at the orphanage. "Are you a first year, or second?"

[Nuridia]

"Why thank you Jacob." Giovanna said, blushing with happiness. Meanwhile Pandora held the cage with her owl Luna inside and looked at all the students arriving. "Come on sweetie, let's get on the train before we get left behind." the Italian girl said, going to hug her family before heading onto the train.

[Tomia]

Walter
Walter was standing with Ella when suddenly a boy who seemed around their age approached him. Walter was worried about Ella but it would be rude for him not to respond so he spoke, "Hi, my name's Walter. It's nice to meet you. This is my second year." Walter told Steve.
Jacob
Jacob smiled to Giovanna, "You're welcome ma'am." He said to her as he stood with Pandora. He got along very well with Pandora's family though Santo was often skeptical of him. He nodded at Pandora's words and hugged his parents goodbye before following Pandora onto the train while his parents waved goodbye to him.
Damian
Damian had gotten on to the train and settled into a compartment with the door open. He was waiting for his friends to arrive and noticed that girl he had smiled to siting nearby. She was obviously very shy and seemed timid as well. He didn't mind that she had been staring at him though, he enjoyed attention like that. He was sitting with his owl Cesar who was hooting happily. Amy was with him as well, looming around at the train with very curious eyes.

[Kazirstan]

Lina

Lina stared at the ground and began tugging at the sleeves and collar of her uniform, a sort of nervous twitch that started when she felt uncomfortable. When the girl asked her a question, she responded, "Oh. N-no, I'm a second year, S-Slytherin. And I'm from S-Sweden." She flushed in embarrassment of her stutter, took a shaky breath, and started tugging on her sleeves harder.

She talks a lot, Lina thought, as the girl continued to chatter on, girls talk too much, why are they all so chatty? Lina looked around the compartment, avoiding eye-contact at all costs, and noticed that the girl had not brought any baggage. Perhaps she left it in another compartment, or forgot it on the platform, she thought.

Let her forget it, Lina thought, or better yet, remind her, then she'll leave, even if it's just for a few minutes. "Did you bring any b-baggage?" She stuttered, cutting off whatever the girl was about to say.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Rebecca Cunningham-4th Year-15 Years Old

Lina

Lina stared at the ground and began tugging at the sleeves and collar of her uniform, a sort of nervous twitch that started when she felt uncomfortable. When the girl asked her a question, she responded, "Oh. N-no, I'm a second year, S-Slytherin. And I'm from S-Sweden." She flushed in embarrassment of her stutter, took a shaky breath, and started tugging on her sleeves harder.

She talks a lot, Lina thought, as the girl continued to chatter on, girls talk too much, why are they all so chatty? Lina looked around the compartment, avoiding eye-contact at all costs, and noticed that the girl had not brought any baggage. Perhaps she left it in another compartment, or forgot it on the platform, she thought.

Let her forget it, Lina thought, or better yet, remind her, then she'll leave, even if it's just for a few minutes. "Did you bring any b-baggage?" She stuttered, cutting off whatever the girl was about to say.

As I droned on, I was reminded by the shy girl that I had not brought any baggage in. Surprised, I jumped up and without saying anything rocketed out of the cabin. Dodging through the halls and leaping from the train, I raced around trying to find my baggage and after several minutes of searching, managed to reclaim only about half of my property. As I picked up what I could find, namely just the textbooks and a spare set of robes. I knew this was going to be a tough start for my first year at school. I was missing my potions kit as well as several sets of robes and parchment. I then placed my hand into my purse and feeling around, discovered I only had a handful of gold to replace whatever I had lost. I then began to think about how I could replace the lost supplies. Finally slowing down long enough to think, I plodded back onto the train and once more rediscovered the cabin with the young girl in it. The gold in my own pocket was enough to replace some of the clothes, or perhaps my potions kit but not much else. And that would make me effectively broke the rest of the year. I sat down, placing the remains of what I had back where I was sitting in front of the Swedish witch.

Then placing myself next to it, I had figured that I could perhaps use some vases and jars as a replacement for the potions kit, while buying me a new set of robes or two. Apart from that, I do have most of what I need as far as classes are concerned, with all of my textbooks in possessions. But, I did not think too much about it, and after a minute I had went back to my normal upbeat self, satisfied with what small amount of planning I had done to replace the losses. Peering across at the girl, who seemed to be afraid of me speaking again. I had elected to slow down a bit.

"So, how do you like Slytherine? I am going for the first time, so I dont know what house I will be placed in." I explained. Waiting for the train to depart, so I can get to school and go about replacing new supplies. Also, I was greatly excited about being placed in my house. Having never been around so many people who used magic before. It was then that a thought occurred to me.

"Wouldn't it be nice if we were placed in the same house? I am sure we could be friends, they do say opposites attract, or was that for couples?" I asked myself as I tried to figure out where the expression came from. Finally rolling my head to the side to gaze out the window. I thought about what the school held in store for me.

The truth was, I do not really care much about what house I am placed in. As long as can finally find a place where I dont completely stand out. Which seemed to be the story of my life. I then smiled to myself, thinking however that it was not all bad. At least everyone will know who I am. The thought of being invisible scared me most of all.

Probably why I do my best to stand out, in a positive way of course.