Wait... Is that? Open Closed

It was cool out. A slight chill at best, as the pre-summer heat had yet to arrive in London. Not that the slight Asian woman was looking forward to such a thing. She had never been a fan of heat, as there was only so much one could do to combat it. Cold, on the other hand, was easier to fend off. The silver peacoat staved off the chilly air, and she walked steadily on her way along the road towards Knightsbridge. A few tourists were milling about, but it was mostly quiet in the early morning.

As she strode, her mind couldn’t help but to wander back to Hogwarts. She had left quite suddenly, no doubt worrying her co-professors, not to mention the wonderful children she had the privilege to teach. She wondered how her replacement was doing. Beyond that, her heart ached to be back in the halls of the school, guiding young minds to a successful future. But more pressing matters took precedent. Her mother’s illness couldn’t be ignored, and she was in a far better position to provide care than Ressie was...and so Aoi had come to London again. Arrangements had been made to move to Hogsmeade. It would allow Cypresse to visit without such a lengthy journey, and their mother the joy of seeing her children.

No doubt fellow adults or students would be visiting, and Aoi wondered if she might be noticed by anyone. Honestly, she longed for it, a taste of the recent past would be amazing at this moment. She continued on her way, hope in her heart.



Reducio
This is a simple return post, feel free to join, say hi, or meet Aoi for the first time! I welcome all in this thread! Happy to be back!

Sometimes, making the wrong choice is better than making no choice. You have the courage to go forward, that is rare.
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
Reducio
I'm unsure what time this takes place, if it's this coming summer, during this school year, or any other time. I will try to make my post as general as possible.

[font=franklin gothic medium]Out of all the muggle things in this world, Jovie only like the cellular phones. There was just so many things to do on them, from playing fighting games, looking at muggle celebrities, and even talking to muggles (she still had yet to know what 'clout' meant).

Her parents didn't care much for muggle stuff but they did look strangely at Jovie for having a phone. She had actually stolen it, but she used something called wi-fi to work it. Walking around London boys asked for her 'number' but she had no idea what the was and walked away. She'd just game away.

She was hear with her aunt and her sister. They wanted to shop around and visit a bakery for lunch and Jovie decided to tag along, since she had nothing better to do. Currently they both were gushing over something called 'maxi dresses'. Jovie only liked wearing any dress black, purple, or blue, but most of them were summer themed so Jovie respectfully ignored them.

Spotting the bakery nearby, Jovie asked her aunt if she could visit it early since she was hungry. After getting permission she ran off. The summer breeze warmed her face and she grinned joyfully. She wished she had a skateboard, but her aunt said it was too dangerous for delicate girls. Jovie didn't think she was delicate.

She slowed to a walk, looking around. London was so huge and populated, there were people everywhere. She wondered how many wizards and witches were about. Did muggles really have no clue? She could relate, she couldn't tell apart wizards and muggles these days, excluding the pointy hats, the long cloaks, and the wands.

Someone caught her eye. It was an Asian lady with pretty eyes walking around. She looked familiar. Didn't she profess at Hogwarts? Jovie watched her for a moment before going up to her. Trying to be discreet as possible, she whispered, behind her hand, "Are you a witch? It's okay, I am, too."
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
There was much to be done before she arrived at Hogwarts, but it was nothing that a little shopping couldn't fix. Wavy hair pulled up into a tight bun, Olphie marched down the streets of London in neon orange heels, gracefully maneuvering the cobblestone. She had a broom, of course, but she needed to ensure that she had clothing, makeup, and nail polish for every possible interaction that could happen whilst she was a professor. Headmaster Lark didn't seem to be the most lax; he certainly would not be the type to allow Olphie to shop for the appropriate outfits or get a necessary massage, no matter how

In and out of posh stores, Olphie wasn't expecting to see anything out of the ordinary except for some horrendously boring fashion trends, yet she was perplexed to find an unusual scene before her. A slight Asian woman was wandering about, being talked to by a small child. Olphie could just overhear her words as she walked past the pair and the click of her heels stopped abruptly.

Was this child a Hogwarts student? Did Headmaster Leer only have such strict regulations on Professors and just not care about the well-being of his pupils? Children could be horrendous creatures, but Olphie just hoped this girl had merely gotten permission to leave the castle for the weekend, rather than left of her own accord. She paused for a moment to open her compact and check her makeup, as first impressions were always important. Olphie's face was presently pristine, as it always was.

She turned and looked at the duo, then said quite loudly, "Witch? I am one as well! Are you a Hogwarts student, dear? I am a new professor of yours." Olphie flashed a radiant smile and paused on the child, before turning to the other woman and extending a hand. Just as loudly, she said, "And who are you, dear?"

Olphie hoped that they would remember her as the star reserve of Holyhead Harpies, but if not, they would certainly remember her now as glamorous. She was Olphie Camille Bercegeay, after all...a bold statement of a person if there ever was one.
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
@Aoi K. Risa | @Jovie Kern | @Olphie Bercegeay

Reducio
I'm assuming that this would be after school gets out.
Koko still had a little while left before herself and her father would need to pack for their move, so she went out to the streets of her home city to say her goodbyes. Koko and Victor had free reign over their house now that Rosalie and Charlie had left for France - surprisingly, Holmes would be staying with Victor. Koko didn't know Holmes too well, but she was pleased to have a familiar face with her.

There was a bakery down the street from where Koko lived, so she decided that she should get a treat before leaving London. She absolutely loved the pastries there. As she walked into the store, she saw a Professor that she had seen before. Was that... Professor Risa? Surely she doesn't remember me, Koko thought. She hadn't been a very active student; she didn't raise her hand nearly as much as she had during elementary school. "H-Hello," Koko tried, her voice soft. "Professor Risa? Is that you?" Who were the others, then? They were all talking about Witchcraft and Wizardry, so Koko assumed that she should know them. "I'm Koko. Koko Riddle."

One of them seemed to be a student such as herself, so Koko's eyes grew even brighter with a smile accenting her emotion. There was another person who looked old enough to be a Professor, but Koko couldn't be sure. Still, her apparent professor wouldn't lower her voice. "Do you want everyone to know of your magical blood?" asked the pure-blooded Slytherin, her brows furrowing and her lips quickly shifting into a frown. How quickly emotions could change.

[pc] koko riddle · 'pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.'
'it always starts and ends with birds.' · cyrus darsel [inpc]
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
It was as if the very thought had summoned them, and a part of her wondered if that was some kind of spell in and of itself. Two children, and a full-grown adult witch. Despite the somewhat higher chance of encountering magical folk in London proper, she hadn’t expected quite this many.

The first child was an unknown, whispering to Aoi, querying as to if she was a witch. A risky question, and while unlikely to break the Statute, the girl might seem a tad off-kilter to any Muggle. But such boldness impressed the Japanese woman and she flashed a bright smile at the girl. Before she could resolve the question though, the Witch had approached them both. Announcing, quite loudly her position and invoking the name of Hogwarts. No doubt passerby had overheard such a thing, and Aoi let out a sigh. At this rate, the Ministry would be upon them, and the paperwork behind such a thing would be terrifying. But once again before a reaction could be presented, another approached, this time someone Aoi vaguely recognized. She had taught many students during her brief time, but couldn’t remember them all. Regardless, it was incredible to have so many from school greeting her. Still, better off to be safe. She quickly cast the muffling spell, requiring a small motion of her hand, and relaxed knowing they could speak more plainly.

“Hello, all of you! Let’s answer this all one by one,” she remarked cheerily. “Hello young one, I am indeed a Witch, well spotted! You may call me Miss Risa if you like. A pleasure to meet you, may I have your name?.” She then adjusted her stance to address the professor, while waiting for the response. “Well met Professor. At one point we might’ve been colleagues, and perhaps at some point, we may be again. I am Aoi Risa, the former professor of History of Magic.” Aoi gave a small respectful bow to the woman. And finally, Miss Riddle. “Hello again Miss Riddle, I am pleased that you remember me so well. I apologize that I can’t remember all the students I’ve had the pleasure to teach, but I shall remember you from here out. I promise. And worry not, I’ve muffled the area, so no need to stress about straining ears.” Aoi gave a wink and smile. “How may I help you ladies today?” she inquired gently.

Sometimes, making the wrong choice is better than making no choice. You have the courage to go forward, that is rare.
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
The original student had become a sort of lame duck, and though Olphie questioned her intelligence, she accepted that perhaps she was just in awe that she was in the presence of greatness. It seemed quite plausible.

Another student joined the first and Olphie could not help but wonder if Hogwarts had decided the best way to educate the adults of tomorrow was to just send them out, willy nilly, and see if they could survive without getting caught by the Ministry. Whoever lasted the longest won the prize of knowing that field experience was perhaps more educational than textbook. The Headmaster had not informed her of such plans and Hogwarts was not like that when she had attended, but Olphie wasn't always aware of what was hip these days socially. The golden-eyed child introduced herself as "Cocoa Ridicule," and Olphie could not help but blink at the child. She really needed to better educate herself on what was cool before she assumed her post, parents these days were naming their children all sorts of weird things.

Then, the child with the ridiculous name had the audacity to accuse Olphie of trying to reveal her magical blood! The beautiful woman blinked at child once more, then retorted, "Shouldn't you be in school, dear?"

It was a damn shame that she was not a professor already, for such an attitude was unacceptable. The child certainly would have deserved a detention for such blatant disrespect.

Thankfully, the pretty Asian woman Olphie really was looking to speak to identified herself as Oy Vey Rice. Interesting name, but she was older, so Olphie just had to presume that her parents were Muggle hippies. Opera not only said her name but proved her smarts by saying she muffled the area; Olphie clicked her tongue in a gesture of pleased amusement, the noise reminiscent of her heels clattering down the cobblestone. "Why, you are a smart cookie, dear Miss Riseandroll! I have nothing you need to assist me with, yet, but I'll keep such a kind, intelligent soul like yourself in mind. But you say you are a former professor? Do you live in London now? You know, dear, I am from London myself, though I suppose I'll have to purchase a flat closer to the school. Need to get away from such chaos on the weekends, as I'm sure you know." She winked, further revealing her lid's shade of vibrant orange.

She was looking for a friend who would understand the trials and tribulations of being a Hogwarts professor, and Opa may be a good one. Olphie knew, however, that she had quite high standards for who she would accept as a friend. She wouldn't accept just anyone. Thus, the former beater decided she would wait to see if Miss Riseup would continue to prove her worth.
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
@Olphie Bercegeay | @Aoi K. Risa
<3
Two things then surprised the blonde. The first was how kind and cheerful her former History of Magic Professor was acting. Were they all this nice? Her theory was proven to be incorrect when the other woman gave a retort, that to Koko's small ears, sounded quite nasty. "Of course not, Professor," Koko snapped, but then she shook her head and closed her eyes, gritting her teeth. This crazy woman wasn't worth it.

"M-Miss Risa, I don't believe I need any assistance. I was just thinking about buying a treat before I leave for America tomorrow." The girl held out a handful of pounds. "I-If either of you would like something," Koko said quietly, looking at both the unknown woman and Miss Risa. "I would be happy to buy it." The money was what Victor had given her to spend. She hadn't known where she would spend it, but it was enough for quite a few muffins. I should get my brother one, the girl thought, taking a single step towards the cash register. "Y-You will be a professor? Of what subject, may I ask?" Koko asked the brunette, who had done her makeup quite well. Koko would notice that, of course.

She hoped that the woman would be their new flying professor. She was already forgetting about the little spat earlier, and she wanted a professor to look up to. But then... Something struck her, and she spun on her heel to face the woman whose name she remembered. "Oh! You're that beater from the Holyhead Harpies! Your name is... Olphie?" It was a slight guess; she couldn't be completely sure, but to a Quidditch enthusiast like the blonde, it would be like a punch to the gut if she didn't remember the name of a beater for the only all-female team in the British League!
Reducio
I apologise for how late this is! Time has gotten away from me.

[pc] koko riddle · 'pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.'
'it always starts and ends with birds.' · cyrus darsel [inpc]
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
Aoi took in the words of the two who were speaking to her. The remaining girl seemed struck speechless. The Japanese woman was slightly concerned. She hoped the young girl wasn’t experiencing anxiety or even worse a panic attack. She reluctantly shifted her attention to the woman between the two children. The other girl, Miss Riddle, had mentioned the woman was a member of a Quidditch team. Aoi didn’t really follow Quidditch, except when her homeland was dominating, and rarely paid it any mind. Therefore, the info provided no hint as to the identity of the woman. Ah, well, there was one more way to deduce her identity beyond a first name.

“Thank you for the compliment, I always appreciate such praise. And to answer your query, I do live here, however, I have intent to move a bit closer to the school. Hogsmeade is always a great spot to escape the stresses of teaching. I do believe you will work with my sister. I’m decently sure she’s still the Transfiguration professor.” Aoi pulled her hand to her chin in thought, nodding thoughtfully. “Miss Riddle mentioned a Quidditch Team in relation to you? May I speculate that you are assuming the post of Flying then? It is a pleasure to meet you, Professor. If I may, how would you prefer to be called?”

“Ah thank you for the offer, Miss Riddle. I’m afraid I’m quite ok at the moment, but if you all have time, perhaps you’d all like to have tea with me? I was just on my way to a cafe I was told about with amazing tea.” Aoi pulled out a small pamphlet from her purse, detailing a new cafe recently opened on King Street. The prices were a bit on the steep side, but such things never phased the spendthrifty woman. She displayed the pages to the girls, pictures of quiches, pies, teas, and coffee appearing with stunning beauty which was likely less accurate than the actual product. “I’d be happy to buy for you both as well, no offense to your offer Miss Riddle. I simply believe I’m in a better position to provide and you can exchange that money should you need to. I’d rather you keep it for yourself.” She watched and gauged for their response.

Sometimes, making the wrong choice is better than making no choice. You have the courage to go forward, that is rare.
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
This was the greatest day of Olphie's life, although, to be quite frank, it didn't take that much to make the woman happy. All she needed was a cup of tea, a few fans, or a big smooch to really make her day worthwhile. This small child was fulfilling the second. Olphie couldn't help but smile at the thought that maybe the girl had a single, attractive father who would take her out to tea and make her perfect day into a home run. Stranger things had happened; fans were crazy...

At first, this girl did not appear to be a fan, though, and Olphie's smile faded slightly as Kokonut inquired as to what class she would be teaching. Wasn't it obvious? She practically had a light up sign that pointed downwards toward her, announcing who she was - that's how much she radiated fame. But now, as Miss Ridicule questioned Olphie's very identity, she wondered if she should make that floating, pointing sign a reality. It would be very helpful for blind dates, which she sometimes participated in to "get away from fame" and dating fans. Many men pretended that they did not know her, but a sign would give them no excuse to play that game. 

But, thankfully, before Olphie could resignedly accept that this girl did not know her, Cacao finally came back to reality and recognized her as "that Beater from the Holyhead Harpies." Olphie tittered as she gazed down upon the pretty blonde, before declaring proudly, "Why, yes dear! Though I suppose it will now be Professor Bercegeay, won't it? Got to stay professional!"

She stuck out her tongue as she said the last sentence, clear evidence of just how professional "Professor Bercegeay" would be. Tongue still poking out before she spoke, Olphie turned toward Ohwhee to add, "You, dear, are welcome to call me Olphie, however. Since we're going to be best friends and all, I suppose that it would be inappropriate for my friend to call me 'Professor.'"

Of course, Owwie definitely thought they were going to be best friends too, the way she invited her to some sort of cafe. Olphie didn't care what it was, though she found it quite strange she was trying to become best friends with a former student as well. And to offer to buy, too! This woman was unemployed, and her fashion made it evident that she probably spent galleons like it was her new job. But Oy must know that Olphie had taken quite the pay cut when she accepted to work at Hogwarts... she was the best best friend the former Beater could have hoped for. How did she get so lucky? "That sounds lovely!" she beamed. "Shall we?"
Wait... Is that? Open Closed
Image posted by the member

Kaegen moved through the swarms of people, wiping away a single bloody tear that was making it's way down his cheek. He felt more alone than he ever had before, wandering the streets and alleys and cities, hiding and feeding wherever he could. It wasn't hard to avoid getting mugged. All he had to do was stare them down. The denizens of london steered clear of the little boy, feared him. Of course they did, it was almost impossible not to. The shadows themselves wrapped around him, light seemed to fade and the temperature would drop suddenly.

He practically radiated murderous intent, and the other street dwellers had no problem with simply avoiding him altogether. They saw him as a little demon, something grim, something that wasn't human, that was far more terrifying. A monster living in the chaos of london for as long as it had to before leaving for days at a time, and then returning. Even now the crowds were parting for him as he hurried through. They were almost shocked that the little boy was the cause of their discomfort. He was far too extraordinary a sight for any of them to react more than the customary stumbling back in surprise.

Kaegen didn't have a home, not one that he could go back to. And so he had lived as a forager throughout the summer, he had slipped around between the houses and countrysides. England was full of rabbits, a fact he had taken advantage of many times. That, and scraps kept him fed. It was enough for the little boy, at least enough until school started again. He ate about the same amount, realistically. Even at hogwarts he would only grab scraps and run. A terrified little boy full of bitterness, trying to survive.

He usually had a plan on how to get food for that day, but today he didn't. Today, he had lost the silent struggle in his mind for control over his senses. Today, he just wanted to leave, to be alone and cry until he couldn't cry any more. And so he kept moving through the city he despised until he suddenly stopped. Directly across the street from him were a few people he recognized. Witches.

Everything else seemed to move much more slowly as he stared at them. The crowd gave him as wide a berth as they could manage. They were afraid of him, although they didn't know why. Even across the street, by the witches, the muggles would turn and stare anxiously across at the dirty little boy with the burning eyes, the boy the shadows seemed to flock to. He wore a faded, fraying robe, a soft grey scarf and a large umbrella strapped to his back. Dirty skin the sickly pale grey of a corpse, eyes a dark, stormy grey with rings of red surrounding the pupils. Spidery, long fingers and pitch black, tangled, filthy hair. He looked very much like some street urchin from hell.

He stood there for only about fifteen seconds before turning, and fleeing. He would run away as fast as he could, and keep running. He couldn't handle them, not now. Later maybe, but not now, now he would need to find somewhere to hide, somewhere to recover. Somewhere to cry and be alone and reset himself. It wouldn't take long, he just had to find a little alley, maybe an abandoned trash can.
Abilities: Unsettling Aura+Terrible Presence

Kaegen enters the thread long enough to be spotted, and then runs back out of the thread like a little cryptid. Thread left.

Shade-Beacon, Master of the Castle of Avarice