1 Jul 2019, 11:23
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
1st September 2019 - 30th June 2020
September 1st 2019 would mark the arrival of a fresh generation of wizards. This day also marks the first back back for older students who had done this before. This story is of course not for the older students, they had already been here. Seen this. Done this. This is the way it has been for generations. This was about the newest generation, all fresh-faced, wide-eyed and about to embark on a new journey. For those with a magical family, older brothers, parents or even friends, they might know what this gathering was as every last first year was gathered into the Great Hall. This was the sorting ceremony and each student with the help of the sorting hat would be placed in one of four Houses -- Hufflepuff, Slytherin, Ravenclaw or Gryffindor.
The room itself was grand. Four long dining tables stretched the length of the room with benches on either side. It was standing room only. A feast was laid out family-style down the center and every sort of food one could think of occupied the shared space. Goblets full of cheery, fruity drinks and large, full plates sat in front of each student. The walls were lined with massive living portraits that chattered among themselves and with some of the more curious students. Overhead lit candles hovered, illuminating the great space and the high vaulted ceiling above. It was loud, the roar of conversation as well as the excitement and anticipation for may of the students as they wondered where they were going to be sorted.
Solomon Lear, the Headmaster was there. He was a curious, unexpected figure for most. He met most of the students at the door as they entered the Great Hall although there was always a wily one that would slip past. Somewhat imposing, standing a bit over six foot, six foot - two inches to be exact and wearing armor. The armor was a strange characteristic of the grey haired wizard with a full beard and dark eyes, plate wrapped in an embossed leather that while definitely worn with evidence of repair appeared to be well cared for. He was more pleasant than he would appear on first stance, his expression certainly not stern, his words for the most part common the platitudes one would expect from a headmaster laced with the occasional dad-joke.
Once the students were all inside, the doors would close behind the last student as if on its own. Solomon would quietly make his way to the front of the room, this awkward period of time as he traversed the length of the hall. His movement for the most part demanding without requesting silence. With the assistance of the Amplifying Charm his voice boomed. "Welcome first year students. I am Solomon Lear, Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As it is our tradition here we are going to engage in our first ceremony known as the sorting ceremony. The sorting hat has been a part of our school's tradition since the time of Godric Gryffindor, one of this institution's founding wizards. This hat is very much sentient."
Sentient, I am intelligent
A voice chimed in from... It did not come from the Headmaster nor did it come from any of the other Professors that elected to participate in this year's sorting ceremony. None of the Professors seemed even remotely surprised although one rolled their eyes a bit. In the hands of one of the Professors, a pointed witches hat that was tattered and worn moved about on its own accord. Yes, the voice came from the hat itself.
Solomon let out a bit of a cough, as if he was making sure that the hat was going to let him continue to speak. "Ah yes, the intelligent" he eyed the hat "Sorting Hat will be placed upon your head. It won't hurt one bit. The Sorting Hat will look into your heart and mind and determine the best place for you: Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff. As most of you must know, each of those houses possesses their own characteristic, their own values and their own Head of House." He would gesture towards the present four Heads of House, they never seemed to last very long as of late. "Professor Caradoc Brown of House Hufflepuff," he gestured towards a thirty-something year old man. "Professor Barnaby Ryker of House Ravenclaw," he gestured towards an older, at least in his weathered features man who did not look steriotypically studious but as many know looks can be deceiving. "And the ladies," he motioned towards two young women "Professor Elaine Pendrast of House Gryffindor," a woman with dark hair and usually a serious expression "Professor Hjørdis Jensen of House Slytherin" a woman with another serious expression and shocking white hair. "The house that will be chosen for you shall represent qualities that are truly present within each of you. Your future house shall be like a second family. You will also be able to gather points and once we reach the end of the year, the house with the most house points shall win the House Championship Cup. What you need to know is the Sorting Hat is never wrong, once you are sorted your House will not change for the duration of your time in Hogwarts."
Solomon would pull a scroll from his waist and open the tightly bound parchment. The list was long this year, even longer than last year. There was a bit of nervousness within him as the long scroll hit the floor, one end still in his hand and rolled several feet away. There were names, so many names. This was going to take awhile he thought to himself.Out of Character Note: This also means that we will not change your House upon IC or OC request.
As if on queue, the Sorting Hat would be placed on a small stool and would start moving and singing:
The Sorting Hat then sang his song :
" A thousand years or more ago
When I was newly sewn,
There lived four wizards of
Whose names are still well known:
Bold Gryffindor, from wild moor,
Fair Ravenclaw, from glen,
Sweet Hufflepuff, from valley broad,
Shrewd Slytherin, from fen.
When I was newly sewn,
There lived four wizards of
Whose names are still well known:
Bold Gryffindor, from wild moor,
Fair Ravenclaw, from glen,
Sweet Hufflepuff, from valley broad,
Shrewd Slytherin, from fen.
For were their such friends anywhere
As Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Unless it was the second pair
Of Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw.
As Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Unless it was the second pair
Of Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw.
United by a common goal,
They had the selfsame yearning
To make the world's best magic school
And pass along their learning.
They had the selfsame yearning
To make the world's best magic school
And pass along their learning.
Now each of these four founders
Formed their own house, for each
Did value different virtues
In the ones, they had to teach.
Formed their own house, for each
Did value different virtues
In the ones, they had to teach.
While still alive they did divide
Their favorites from the throng,
Yet how to pick the worthy ones
When were they dead and gone?
Twas Gryffindor who found the way,
He whipped me off his head
The founders put some brains in me
So I could choose instead!
Now slip me snug about your ears,
I've never yet been wrong,
I'll have a look inside your mind
And tell where you belong!
Their favorites from the throng,
Yet how to pick the worthy ones
When were they dead and gone?
Twas Gryffindor who found the way,
He whipped me off his head
The founders put some brains in me
So I could choose instead!
Now slip me snug about your ears,
I've never yet been wrong,
I'll have a look inside your mind
And tell where you belong!
You might belong in Gryffindor,
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've got a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folks use any means
To achieve their ends. "
Where dwell the brave at heart,
Their daring, nerve, and chivalry
Set Gryffindors apart;
You might belong in Hufflepuff,
Where they are just and loyal,
Those patient Hufflepuffs are true
And unafraid of toil;
Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw,
If you've got a ready mind,
Where those of wit and learning,
Will always find their kind;
Or perhaps in Slytherin
You'll make your real friends,
Those cunning folks use any means
To achieve their ends. "
Once the Sorting Hat was done, everyone in the room applauded him. There was no Deputy Headmaster this year to grow hoarse listing off all of the names, that was Solomon's job again. He would start to recite each name on the list and one by one the students would be summoned to the front of the room where the Sorting Hat would be placed on their head. It was time to start their journey.
Reducio
This is a RPG topic where all new first year students are welcome to post.
All RPG rules apply. Word count per post is 200 words, not including quotes, ooc chat or other people's words. Any flood type (posts under 200 words) of message will be deleted after a warning owl is sent.
Note to confused new players:
Barnaby Ryker was the Head of House for House Ravenclaw at the start of the year. he has since IC and OC been replaced by Alaric Equinox for this role as the previous administrator had to leave the role for real-life reasons. As this is a back-dated thread, he in theory would be present and announced but since this time he has been replaced by a new Professor.
There is something about ambition, how it not only propels you but also defines you.
4 Jul 2019, 17:33
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Elowen couldn't believe that she was here, much less that this was all real. Despite all the weeks of reading her new school books, some of which weren't on the list of materials, and the sights of Diagon Alley...it still hadn't worn off and she wasn't sure it ever would. Now here in the Great Hall after the boat ride and seeing Hogwarts all lit up against a starry night backdrop? It was all so surreal..enough so that her gaze was drawn away from sneaking glances up above their heads when she just barely caught her name being called.
"......, Manglewood!"
Oh no, did I miss my name being called the first time?
She hurried up the steps, already feeling her cheeks start to heat up with the knowledge that hundreds of eyes were going to be watching her, even perhaps doing a bit of their own judging of her! Settling onto the stool, she nervously awaited for her fate to be announced, worn material of the hat weighing slightly on her head.
"Well well...what do we have here? Got a keen interest in adventure, I see. Though not for seeking fame, glory or fortune. Always a shame to see those sorts get drawn in only to fall on the wayside. Moving on, however. I can see you're keen on making friends. Remember now, it's who they are as a person that counts, not what they have. Or whatever wise, sentimental tripe you want to hear.
Elowen thought this was a little awkward coming from the hat, but she supposed he had a point even if it was..unexpected to say the least.
"Oh um, okay Mr.Hat...?"
Well, what was she supposed to say after that? Did the sorting hat usually say more than what it discovered of a person's traits like this? She'd have to ask around.
"Right right. Well, better be...HUFFLEPUFF!"
With a sigh of relief, she hopped off the stool and placed the Hat back down, quickly making her way to her new House's table; Only if so that she'd be out of the spotlight, finally.
"......, Manglewood!"
Oh no, did I miss my name being called the first time?
She hurried up the steps, already feeling her cheeks start to heat up with the knowledge that hundreds of eyes were going to be watching her, even perhaps doing a bit of their own judging of her! Settling onto the stool, she nervously awaited for her fate to be announced, worn material of the hat weighing slightly on her head.
"Well well...what do we have here? Got a keen interest in adventure, I see. Though not for seeking fame, glory or fortune. Always a shame to see those sorts get drawn in only to fall on the wayside. Moving on, however. I can see you're keen on making friends. Remember now, it's who they are as a person that counts, not what they have. Or whatever wise, sentimental tripe you want to hear.
Elowen thought this was a little awkward coming from the hat, but she supposed he had a point even if it was..unexpected to say the least.
"Oh um, okay Mr.Hat...?"
Well, what was she supposed to say after that? Did the sorting hat usually say more than what it discovered of a person's traits like this? She'd have to ask around.
"Right right. Well, better be...HUFFLEPUFF!"
With a sigh of relief, she hopped off the stool and placed the Hat back down, quickly making her way to her new House's table; Only if so that she'd be out of the spotlight, finally.
6 Jul 2019, 00:18
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Jane was excited, and a little nervous, as she filed into the Great Hall with the other first year students. Her eyes were wide as she took in the great space and all it had to offer. The candles hovering overhead, the long tables belonging to the different houses with students filling the seats and the portraits on the walls that were talking amongst themselves; everything in the Great Hall was breathtaking to Jane. Even though the nervousness she had started to bubble up within her a little bit more as she walked towards the front of the tables, she felt that she was somewhere she belonged. Her parents had told her stories of their time as students at Hogwarts and how they had felt when it was time for their sorting ceremony. They had admitted that they had felt nervous and that most people would feel this way; for the house you are sorted into will be your family during your stay in Hogwarts. Jane's parents said, "We know you will belong in any house you are sorted into, dear." She felt that they would be proud of her no matter what house she was sorted into as long as she made friends and focused on her studies.
Jane stopped when everyone else did as they had reached the front of the tables and waited to be called forward by the Headmaster. She knew she shouldn't feel nervous about being sorted, but it was all the previous students she felt were staring at her and the rest of the first years waiting to see where they would go. Looking around at all the other students surrounding her, Jane hoped that she would make friends with most of the students during her stay in Hogwarts. Since she was not one who would define a person by the House they are sorted into, because everyone needs a friend. She listened as students started getting called up. Next thing she knew it was her name being called, "Jane Owens."
Jane took in a deep breathe and exhaled slowly as she walked up to sit on the stool. When she sat down the sorting hat was placed on her head and she could hear it talking but it wasn't talking out loud. It was in her head so that only she could hear what it was saying. "Owens.. Owens. That name sounds familiar, but it has been a while since I have heard it. Ah, your father is Timothy Owens who I remember I sorted into Slytherin. Though you do seem to be ambitious like your father was, you have more of your mothers qualities.. And I sorted Nora into Hufflepuff.." She did feel she was closer with her mother as she didn't work and mainly took care of Jane. Some of her mothers qualities probably rubbed off on her as she grew older."You are a bright child and want to focus on your studies here, but I can tell you also want to make friends. And you would befriend anyone or anything no matter what. You are loyal as well.. Hmm.. Now I see." She held on to the sides of the stool as she waited to hear what the sorting hat would say. After what felt like an eternity but was probably only a few seconds, Jane heard the hat exclaim, "HUFFLEPUFF!" With a big smile on her face, the hat was lifted off her head and Jane made her way to the cheers of the Hufflepuff table. Her first thoughts as she sat down were that she couldn't wait to tell her parents.
Jane stopped when everyone else did as they had reached the front of the tables and waited to be called forward by the Headmaster. She knew she shouldn't feel nervous about being sorted, but it was all the previous students she felt were staring at her and the rest of the first years waiting to see where they would go. Looking around at all the other students surrounding her, Jane hoped that she would make friends with most of the students during her stay in Hogwarts. Since she was not one who would define a person by the House they are sorted into, because everyone needs a friend. She listened as students started getting called up. Next thing she knew it was her name being called, "Jane Owens."
Jane took in a deep breathe and exhaled slowly as she walked up to sit on the stool. When she sat down the sorting hat was placed on her head and she could hear it talking but it wasn't talking out loud. It was in her head so that only she could hear what it was saying. "Owens.. Owens. That name sounds familiar, but it has been a while since I have heard it. Ah, your father is Timothy Owens who I remember I sorted into Slytherin. Though you do seem to be ambitious like your father was, you have more of your mothers qualities.. And I sorted Nora into Hufflepuff.." She did feel she was closer with her mother as she didn't work and mainly took care of Jane. Some of her mothers qualities probably rubbed off on her as she grew older."You are a bright child and want to focus on your studies here, but I can tell you also want to make friends. And you would befriend anyone or anything no matter what. You are loyal as well.. Hmm.. Now I see." She held on to the sides of the stool as she waited to hear what the sorting hat would say. After what felt like an eternity but was probably only a few seconds, Jane heard the hat exclaim, "HUFFLEPUFF!" With a big smile on her face, the hat was lifted off her head and Jane made her way to the cheers of the Hufflepuff table. Her first thoughts as she sat down were that she couldn't wait to tell her parents.
Jane Owens | First Year | Hufflepuff
6 Jul 2019, 23:05
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Everything was just so much at once. He would find a new curiosity every second he spent in the hall. As they walked in, he spotted a very tall and very scary looking man. Pursing his lips anxiously, he managed to duck his head and be left undetected by him. Good thing he was stuck in the middle of the crowd, made it easier to hide from the eyes of the other students. Nervously, he fiddled with the sleeve of his robe as the man and the hat talked. Jeremy found himself staring at the worn out hat, completely perplexed by its very existence. He was only snapped out of it when the thing started singing! He fought back an excited smile as it sang.
Once all the pleasantries were done and over with, the scary man started reading off names. The boy did his very best to pay attention to what he was saying, after all, he didn't want to mess up in front of so many people. "Jeremy Altair", the Head Master's voice boomed across the hall. At the sound of his name, the boy wriggled his way out of the crowd. The bounce in his step was both from excitement and nervousness. Sitting down on the chair, he looked up as the rim of the hat came closer to his line of sight.
"Ah, yes, very creative. And a fast learner too. You seek adventure, but not people. Oh, and what's this? A strong thirst for knowledge as well. Be careful with that, little one, don't let the pursuit of knowledge cloud your judgement." Jeremy frowned, not quite sure what the hat meant by that. "Hmm, very well. A tough choice, but I suppose it should be...RAVENCLAW"
Jeremy jumped at the sudden yell, as the hat had been mumbling to him quietly just seconds before. Choosing to tuck away what the hat had said for the time being, he looked towards the cheering table of students. Standing, he gave the Head Master a small smile and nod before wondering off. This was going to be a fun year.
Once all the pleasantries were done and over with, the scary man started reading off names. The boy did his very best to pay attention to what he was saying, after all, he didn't want to mess up in front of so many people. "Jeremy Altair", the Head Master's voice boomed across the hall. At the sound of his name, the boy wriggled his way out of the crowd. The bounce in his step was both from excitement and nervousness. Sitting down on the chair, he looked up as the rim of the hat came closer to his line of sight.
"Ah, yes, very creative. And a fast learner too. You seek adventure, but not people. Oh, and what's this? A strong thirst for knowledge as well. Be careful with that, little one, don't let the pursuit of knowledge cloud your judgement." Jeremy frowned, not quite sure what the hat meant by that. "Hmm, very well. A tough choice, but I suppose it should be...RAVENCLAW"
Jeremy jumped at the sudden yell, as the hat had been mumbling to him quietly just seconds before. Choosing to tuck away what the hat had said for the time being, he looked towards the cheering table of students. Standing, he gave the Head Master a small smile and nod before wondering off. This was going to be a fun year.
8 Jul 2019, 16:12
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Darcy was filled with strong feelings of anticipation. As each name was called, it got closer and closer to hers, down to the Os and next to the Ps. Finally, her name was called. 'Payne, Darcy.' She took a deep breath, anxious but excited, and made her way towards the sorting hat. As soon as it touched her head, it began to speak;
'Very wise and book smart, but also rather cunning and ambitious... You're also brave and bold, and you can be very empathetic and understanding at times... This will be a tricky one... You have many qualities for many of the Hogwarts houses!.'
Darcy pondered about what qualities she had, and, indeed, she had many traits and qualities for all four houses.
'...However...
I believe one house shines through just a little more... Yes, I've come to a decision.
Darcy was full of excitement. Her Hogwarts house! The place she was to call home! Her eyes sparkled, as the Sorting hat was ready to speak.
...SLYTHERIN!'
The Slytherins cheered as Darcy put the hat back and ran towards the table. She sat down, smiling broadly, and dreamed thoughtfully about the next day. She pondered about her ambitions and hopes. Her new home awaited her, so she prepared for the feast, ready to start.
'Very wise and book smart, but also rather cunning and ambitious... You're also brave and bold, and you can be very empathetic and understanding at times... This will be a tricky one... You have many qualities for many of the Hogwarts houses!.'
Darcy pondered about what qualities she had, and, indeed, she had many traits and qualities for all four houses.
'...However...
I believe one house shines through just a little more... Yes, I've come to a decision.
Darcy was full of excitement. Her Hogwarts house! The place she was to call home! Her eyes sparkled, as the Sorting hat was ready to speak.
...SLYTHERIN!'
The Slytherins cheered as Darcy put the hat back and ran towards the table. She sat down, smiling broadly, and dreamed thoughtfully about the next day. She pondered about her ambitions and hopes. Her new home awaited her, so she prepared for the feast, ready to start.
Last edited by Darcy Payne on 9 Jul 2019, 07:37, edited 1 time in total.
''ₛₕₒₒₜ fₒᵣ ₜₕₑ ₘₒₒₙ. ₑᵥₑₙ ᵢf yₒᵤ ₘᵢₛₛ yₒᵤ'ₗₗ ₗₐₙd ₐₘₒₙg ₜₕₑ ₛₜₐᵣₛ.''
9 Jul 2019, 06:01
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Aaron waded through the crowd of students cluttering the entrance to the Great Hall, it was then that he realized the true grandeur of Hogwarts. There were hundreds of students crowded
among the four seemingly never-ending dining tables, each separated by house. Atop the tables sat every food Aaron could possibly think of, even some he didn't recognize! Massive goblets foaming
with a frothy liquid seemed to match every set of silverware placed neatly aside a plate.
The sheer amount of conversation going on could make one go mad, but this hadn't even crossed Aaron's mind, as he was perplexed by the ragged wizard's hat that was perched atop a stool at the head of the room.
He knew exactly what that was- the sorting hat! Many nights were spent scouring the pages of Hogwarts; A history, and similar texts, for any information on who, or what, that hat could be. And how did it know precisely which house each and every spell-caster belonged to?
If it hadn't been for a second attempt, Aaron would have never heard his named being called.
"...Hempwrit! Aaron Hempwrit!"
Aaron strenuously made his way through the crowd of students, not aided by their compulsion to stand still for the moment. "Excuse me, sorry..", he said as he shouldered his way through the
mob to the stairs. As he scooted onto the stool, Aaron could hear the hushed breathing of another entity above him; it was the hat.
"Ah... what a complication we have here... A complication indeed. You have a strong sense of self, I see. A true independent soul with an insatiable thirst for knowledge... but not power,
hmm." Aaron couldn't help but let his mind wander as the hat spoke to him. This hat could read what he was feeling, or was it his thoughts? What could this piece of fabric possibly know about him?
"Aha!", exclaimed the sorting hat, frightening Aaron so much so that he almost flung the whole stool backwards. "You question my methods, do you? A very curious one, that is for certain, but don't let that get you into mischief.." He glanced up at the hat, not understanding what it meant, yet still feeling somewhat wary of his advice. "Very well then, I know where to put you... RAVENCLAW!"
Aaron let out a smirk and a small sigh of relief, "Glad that's over with", he muttered under his breath as he rose up and headed toward an open seat next to his new housemates. Ravenclaw had housed both of his parents, and he was looking forward to continuing the legacy of their family name.
among the four seemingly never-ending dining tables, each separated by house. Atop the tables sat every food Aaron could possibly think of, even some he didn't recognize! Massive goblets foaming
with a frothy liquid seemed to match every set of silverware placed neatly aside a plate.
The sheer amount of conversation going on could make one go mad, but this hadn't even crossed Aaron's mind, as he was perplexed by the ragged wizard's hat that was perched atop a stool at the head of the room.
He knew exactly what that was- the sorting hat! Many nights were spent scouring the pages of Hogwarts; A history, and similar texts, for any information on who, or what, that hat could be. And how did it know precisely which house each and every spell-caster belonged to?
If it hadn't been for a second attempt, Aaron would have never heard his named being called.
"...Hempwrit! Aaron Hempwrit!"
Aaron strenuously made his way through the crowd of students, not aided by their compulsion to stand still for the moment. "Excuse me, sorry..", he said as he shouldered his way through the
mob to the stairs. As he scooted onto the stool, Aaron could hear the hushed breathing of another entity above him; it was the hat.
"Ah... what a complication we have here... A complication indeed. You have a strong sense of self, I see. A true independent soul with an insatiable thirst for knowledge... but not power,
hmm." Aaron couldn't help but let his mind wander as the hat spoke to him. This hat could read what he was feeling, or was it his thoughts? What could this piece of fabric possibly know about him?
"Aha!", exclaimed the sorting hat, frightening Aaron so much so that he almost flung the whole stool backwards. "You question my methods, do you? A very curious one, that is for certain, but don't let that get you into mischief.." He glanced up at the hat, not understanding what it meant, yet still feeling somewhat wary of his advice. "Very well then, I know where to put you... RAVENCLAW!"
Aaron let out a smirk and a small sigh of relief, "Glad that's over with", he muttered under his breath as he rose up and headed toward an open seat next to his new housemates. Ravenclaw had housed both of his parents, and he was looking forward to continuing the legacy of their family name.
10 Jul 2019, 02:52
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
There it was.
The Great Hall.
Just inches from her...
Lark had made sure to stay towards the back of the group of first years when she arrived. The summer had at least given her a chance to familiarize herself with some of the grounds, but the castle... It was so much more than she could have even imagined. All the stories she had heard growing up still had not done Hogwarts justice. It was much more breathtaking in person. She couldn't believe that she finally was here. Standing where so many others had stood before her including her entire bloodline.
No pressure... Lark mused to herself trying to swallow the lump growing in her throat. She had been trailing behind a couple of her peers as they were lead down each hallway and deeper into the castle. They had been passing numerous portraits, some empty and others full to bursting with figures celebrating and occasionally waving at the children as they hurried along. There had been whispers and giggling, a bit of arguing over the superior houses and the general hushed commotion as they had walked. She couldn't blame any of them, even she had been trying to hold back the giddy yet anxious and almost sick feeling that all swayed back and forth inside.
As the group had come to a halt on a set of stairs leading into the Great Hall, they had been given the standard once over. Tuck your shirt in, stand up straight, wipe that smudge off your face, yes yes your hair looks fine, stop tugging at your robes. You'll ALL. DO. GREAT. If anything the words of encouragement had just seemed to fluster some even more and energize the other half of the students. It also hadn't stopped Lark from nibbling at her lower lip and tapping a finger at her side nervously. Her golden eyes peered past the sea of heads in front of her and settled on a familiar regal looking figure.
Holy toadstools there he is! Lark's stomach fluttered and nerves prickled all the way to her toes and back. The Headmaster, Solomon Lear, was just up ahead. He was smiling and nodding to each and every one of them. Over the summer, Lark had seen him here and there but never really a chance to interact with him much. He looked so much more intimidating than she remembered! Realizing her mouth had been hung open somewhat in awe of the great wizard, Lark shook her head and noticed everyone else had begun flooding inside. Shuffling in with a quick flash of a smile in the Headmaster's direction, she and a few other stragglers made their way inside the Hall. She felt the doors slide closed behind them. Why had that felt so ominous..?
As the sorting hat spoke, Lark tried to stifle a laugh. Her Gran had always mentioned it had not just a mind but a wit of its own. Somehow it seemed to calm her though, almost break some of the tension she felt amongst the other more seemingly serious first years. Although there was a bit of stirring as the list the Headmaster had showed itself to be rather...lengthy. Again, Lark choked back a laugh and tried to give a quick smirk to another student next to her who only gave her a sharp look before turning forward again. Yikes... she took a short breath as her smile faded.
Lark tried to keep herself from being distracted by the wondrous sight of the hall itself. No use. Her mind wandered as it danced up images of classes in her mind, feasts and festivities to come, all the spells she may learn, potions... How had her mother felt when she first came to be sorted? Were they thinking of her now, surely they had already sent an owl just dying to know how she was... where she was sorted more like it....
"-SLYTHERIN!" The Sorting Hat rang out.
The booming voice instantly snapped Lark out of her hazy mind. Lark swallowed hard, again feeling a wave of nausea. This was killer... At least she wouldn't have to wait much longer, she hoped. She scanned the others that were left to be sorted. Would any of them end up becoming friends? Or worse... She wasn't totally ignorant of how things could be. At home her parents had sent her to other community type events with other magical families, but often Lark found herself on the outside of everyone else. It wasn't for lack of trying, a good portion of the time she did try and there were fun conversations and plenty of laughing, getting along, all that good stuff.. but still she ended up being the one to watch everyone else walk off in their groups of friends while she sat back by herself.
"I'm not sure I can handle a full seven years of that..." Desperately she leaned forward and tried to give a couple smiles to the rest of the unsorted around her, giving nods and clapping when others had been sorted into their proper houses.
Ravenclaw... Ravenclaw.. Hufflepuff. Please oh Please... My family will kill me if it is anything else... The young girl held her breath as she shifted her weight from one hip to the next anxiously. Lark was sure it couldn't have been taking this long to get through just the first bit of student names... Time felt like it was dragging the closer it got to her being called. Lark's head spun.
"Lark Flaer."
The Headmaster's voice was crisp and so authoritative Lark couldn't help but wince as if she were in trouble. Habit. Slowly she made her way through the crowd of others making sure to steady herself before taking each step. Her feet felt as if they were lead. Turning to take her seat on the stool, Lark's gaze shot to the floor and felt her cheeks burn. So many eyes on her, too many!
Hastily she snatched her glasses resting on the top of her head and jammed them into her lap, her fingers clasped so tight around them she felt she may snap them in two.
"Nervous eh...?" Lark almost scrambled off of the stool. Gran's stories absolutely had NOT involved hearing voices!
"I... er... ehm.. yes." Lark spoke aloud. A hand clapped to her mouth as her cheeks burned an even brighter shade of red. WHY HAD SHE ANSWERED OUT LOUD!?!? She looked out at the other students in front of her, some were nudging each other and laughing. How stupid of her... Ugh. Lark looked back down at her lap and took another breath.
"Aha, well... interesting... Yes. Indeed..." Lark closed her eyes and tried to calm her nerves.
"You're quite right... your family has a weighty opinion on certain houses.. Should I settle you in Hufflepuff? I know your father would be rather happy- oh but Ravenclaw for your mother..." Lark bit her lip. " Sensitive as a Puff.. Sharp as a Claw... Cunning, true... There's more to you." This was torture, Lark squeezed her hands together.
" OH YET... Slytherin would be certainly a place you could thrive... You do have a something inside of you that seems tempted by such possible power.. and potions my word! " Lark wouldn't let this hat get the better of her. Her mother's face came into mind, her kind eyes and warm smile... It may just be giving her a go but she knew deep down...
"I trust you." She whispered. No wavering, no stutter, no fear.
Lark could almost feel the shift in weight of the hat on her head, gently... and it almost felt as it were smiling.
"That'a girl. I'm never wrong... You have it in you, just let yourself feel it."
As soon as his voice settled on the last word he called out --
"RAVENCLAW!"
Even with the sudden rush of cheers and clapping, Lark sat there for a moment longer with the hat still nestled on her head. "Thank you." Another whisper. A smile flashed across her face before she stood and returned the hat to the stool.
Turning she felt as if she stood a little taller, a little more sure of herself. All of the anxious thoughts and feelings washed away as she hurried her way to the Ravenclaw table. Her heart felt warm and full as she took a seat with her peers. This would be her family.
Finally.
Stam: 4 - Ev: 6 - Str: 3 - Wis: 5 - AP: 7 - Acc: 5
In friendships we are searching for a soulmate, someone who shares every facet of their passions and imagination.
12 Jul 2019, 12:21
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
Rose O’Toole followed the small wave of first years through the courtyard of Hogwarts and into the Small Hall. There was a tall man waiting for them. He looked at little…intense. Wait a minute. Why is he wearing armor? Is something scary happening?! Do we have to fight him to enter? No one mentioned that! Rose jumped a little when the door closed behind the last first year. Nope, wait. He’s walking away. Oooooh, it’s Headmaster Lear. She felt like an idiot.
Rose sped-walked awkwardly towards the end of the hall, trying to keep up with the man’s longer stride. She took in all the sights that her older brother John told her about the Great Hall. The candles really did float! And the sky! Honestly, she had though John been full of it about that. But no, here it was. The most intense thing though was all the eyes. Not just from people but even the paintings. She swore she even saw a few spectral persons floating in and out as well. She was a bit ashamed to realize that she had many questions that probably would have been answered if she’d read her schoolbooks prior to arriving. Instead, she’d played as much football as she could before leaving for the year. The long table at the end of the hall had the impressive figures of her future professors seated behind it. There’s the owl pedestal—Merlin’s Beard! What the devil is that?!
The Sorting Hat moved on its own! And then it began to sing! What had professor Lear said? It was sentient—nay, intelligent! For whatever reason, her family had never told her how you were sorted, only that you were. She gulped and focused hard. The Headmaster had begun to read off the names. She managed to make brief eye contact and share a small smile with Lark Flaer just before she was called to be sorted. As the other girl hopped off the stool, Professor Lear looked up from the list.
“Rose O’Toole?”
“H-here!” she said as she made her way to the stool.
Rose was very nervous and suspicious as the hat was lowered onto her head. The Hat laughed warmly at her and the girl thought she would faint. It's inside her head!
“Hmm, let’s see. An active girl, are we? A bit too unassuming for your own good though. Do I know your family? Ah, yes. Bold Liam. Your dad made quite the name for himself. All started with me, you know. Never wrong yet. Who else? Ah, a Sullivan! Sweet Maeve, no less. Yes, good match there.”
The first year was unsure how to respond to the hat’s commentary on her parent’s marriage. It seemed a bit weird to her. However, at least this meant that she was going to be put in one of the right houses. The Hat laughed again.
“Oh, so sure, are you? True, you are as active as a Gryffindor and modest as a Hufflepuff. But I do not think you would be your best in those Houses. I see a different future you in…RAVENCLAW!”
“WHAAAT?!” the girl’s reply to the decision was even louder than the announced choice.
There were startled looks from students and professors alike. Though the Headmaster removed the Sorting Hat, she remained seated for a few seconds in stunned silence. This was not right! Nobody in her family was a Ravenclaw! The O’Toole line was predominantly made up of Gryffindors while the Sullivan line was Hufflepuff to a fault. She was a terrible studier! Now she will flunk out of the smart House and disgrace them all. Numbly, she slid off the stool and wandered to her seat at the very end of the Ravenclaw table.
OOC: To be completely honest, the character is just as surprised as me. I never thought she would be a Ravenclaw as I was creating her. The quiz result shocked me. I am at a loss currently as to how will I have to play her and her potential growth. Lol.
Rose sped-walked awkwardly towards the end of the hall, trying to keep up with the man’s longer stride. She took in all the sights that her older brother John told her about the Great Hall. The candles really did float! And the sky! Honestly, she had though John been full of it about that. But no, here it was. The most intense thing though was all the eyes. Not just from people but even the paintings. She swore she even saw a few spectral persons floating in and out as well. She was a bit ashamed to realize that she had many questions that probably would have been answered if she’d read her schoolbooks prior to arriving. Instead, she’d played as much football as she could before leaving for the year. The long table at the end of the hall had the impressive figures of her future professors seated behind it. There’s the owl pedestal—Merlin’s Beard! What the devil is that?!
The Sorting Hat moved on its own! And then it began to sing! What had professor Lear said? It was sentient—nay, intelligent! For whatever reason, her family had never told her how you were sorted, only that you were. She gulped and focused hard. The Headmaster had begun to read off the names. She managed to make brief eye contact and share a small smile with Lark Flaer just before she was called to be sorted. As the other girl hopped off the stool, Professor Lear looked up from the list.
“Rose O’Toole?”
“H-here!” she said as she made her way to the stool.
Rose was very nervous and suspicious as the hat was lowered onto her head. The Hat laughed warmly at her and the girl thought she would faint. It's inside her head!
“Hmm, let’s see. An active girl, are we? A bit too unassuming for your own good though. Do I know your family? Ah, yes. Bold Liam. Your dad made quite the name for himself. All started with me, you know. Never wrong yet. Who else? Ah, a Sullivan! Sweet Maeve, no less. Yes, good match there.”
The first year was unsure how to respond to the hat’s commentary on her parent’s marriage. It seemed a bit weird to her. However, at least this meant that she was going to be put in one of the right houses. The Hat laughed again.
“Oh, so sure, are you? True, you are as active as a Gryffindor and modest as a Hufflepuff. But I do not think you would be your best in those Houses. I see a different future you in…RAVENCLAW!”
“WHAAAT?!” the girl’s reply to the decision was even louder than the announced choice.
There were startled looks from students and professors alike. Though the Headmaster removed the Sorting Hat, she remained seated for a few seconds in stunned silence. This was not right! Nobody in her family was a Ravenclaw! The O’Toole line was predominantly made up of Gryffindors while the Sullivan line was Hufflepuff to a fault. She was a terrible studier! Now she will flunk out of the smart House and disgrace them all. Numbly, she slid off the stool and wandered to her seat at the very end of the Ravenclaw table.
OOC: To be completely honest, the character is just as surprised as me. I never thought she would be a Ravenclaw as I was creating her. The quiz result shocked me. I am at a loss currently as to how will I have to play her and her potential growth. Lol.
Alohamora! And the portal to a wonderous world opened!
18 Jul 2019, 14:29
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
James held on tightly to the strap of his Jurassic Park backpack as he shuffled into the Great Hall. He felt the prickle of hundreds of eyes on the nervous gaggle of first-years. He noticed the sideways glance of the imposing man outfitted in armor as he entered the hall. Perhaps clinging onto a backpack was non-standard for these wizard types. James didn't care though. He needed something to hold onto, some part of his old life to keep him floating away into the new. The tall man offered him a kind smile and a warm hand, and James took it gratefully. He breathed deeply. One foot in front of the other.
His stomach turned in knots as the first years where shepherded to the empty benches at the front of the hall. He saw his peers completely enchanted by the scene before them, the hall lit with floating candles and chattering portraits lining the walls. He wished he felt the same. All he could think of right now, was being at home, in his normal house, with his normal friends, playing Playstation in his shorts. He should have been loving this right?! When he first learnt he was a wizard he couldn't get past the excitement! But now, as the truth of it all began to solidify around him, he felt like he was drowning.
He barely heard the opening speech of Solomon Lear, the old man caught his eye and seem to bore into his soul with his empathetic gaze. He radiated a power, a power that could kill him in an instant, but he handled that power with such grace that it put James at ease, he felt safe in the care of this mysterious creature. He remembered a time when he used to look at his Dad that way, and suddenly missed him achingly.
Lear explained that house system at this strange school. An honestly, kind of intrusive test of character and heart. James heard the description of Gryffindor and knew it was where he was meant to be. A twinkle in his eye, a flare for the adventurous, and a penchant for being where he wasn't allowed, yeah he was a Gryffindor for sure.
"McMurtrie, James" The old principal called the boy to the hotseat and the feeling left his legs. He wiped his sweaty hands on the back of his pants and sat to be evaluated by the hat.
"Hmmm, yes. A lot of fear. Unsure if you are meant for this life are we my boy? No need to worry, I see potential, here. And ingenuity! Creative, quick-witted, imaginative! You'll do well here I'm sure. You belong in only one place lad..."
James held his breath.
"RAVENCLAW!"
Really? He had been so sure. And what did this hat know anyway? Who was this piece of clothing to tell him who he really was?
But then James felt a flutter of realization. Perhaps the hat knew more about him than James did himself. He'd never quite figured out who he truly was. Who had at eleven? He puffed up his chest. Yes, creative, clever, quick-witted, maybe this could be him.
He walked over to join his applauding blue-robed family. Perhaps Ravenclaw could be his home afterall.
His stomach turned in knots as the first years where shepherded to the empty benches at the front of the hall. He saw his peers completely enchanted by the scene before them, the hall lit with floating candles and chattering portraits lining the walls. He wished he felt the same. All he could think of right now, was being at home, in his normal house, with his normal friends, playing Playstation in his shorts. He should have been loving this right?! When he first learnt he was a wizard he couldn't get past the excitement! But now, as the truth of it all began to solidify around him, he felt like he was drowning.
He barely heard the opening speech of Solomon Lear, the old man caught his eye and seem to bore into his soul with his empathetic gaze. He radiated a power, a power that could kill him in an instant, but he handled that power with such grace that it put James at ease, he felt safe in the care of this mysterious creature. He remembered a time when he used to look at his Dad that way, and suddenly missed him achingly.
Lear explained that house system at this strange school. An honestly, kind of intrusive test of character and heart. James heard the description of Gryffindor and knew it was where he was meant to be. A twinkle in his eye, a flare for the adventurous, and a penchant for being where he wasn't allowed, yeah he was a Gryffindor for sure.
"McMurtrie, James" The old principal called the boy to the hotseat and the feeling left his legs. He wiped his sweaty hands on the back of his pants and sat to be evaluated by the hat.
"Hmmm, yes. A lot of fear. Unsure if you are meant for this life are we my boy? No need to worry, I see potential, here. And ingenuity! Creative, quick-witted, imaginative! You'll do well here I'm sure. You belong in only one place lad..."
James held his breath.
"RAVENCLAW!"
Really? He had been so sure. And what did this hat know anyway? Who was this piece of clothing to tell him who he really was?
But then James felt a flutter of realization. Perhaps the hat knew more about him than James did himself. He'd never quite figured out who he truly was. Who had at eleven? He puffed up his chest. Yes, creative, clever, quick-witted, maybe this could be him.
He walked over to join his applauding blue-robed family. Perhaps Ravenclaw could be his home afterall.
Stamina : 5 | Evasion : 5 | Strength : 7 | Wisdom : 8 | Arcane Power : 7 | Accuracy : 3
19 Jul 2019, 21:21
Sorting Ceremony 2019-2020
The surreal feeling that washed over Santario left her speechless as they walked into the castle. She was used to her small home. Her family wasn’t poor by any means they lived quite comfortably but they also did not live frivolously. They had a room for her parents, a room for her, a guest room, an office for her father, and her mother did any work from home brewing potions in their kitchen. Then of course all of the people! Her heart was beating faster than she expected she could count on one hand how many people she had as friends back home and even then for the past 4 years she hadn’t had them as friends because they were muggles and her powers had started to surface.
Her mother told her about the headmaster so although he was intimidating in his armor, she did expect him to be everything that he was. When they entered the Great Hall she had to stifle a gasp of shock, because this was huge and there were so many people! ‘I’ve never seen this many people at once before.’ She thought as her blue eyes darted around taking everything in from the four long house tables to the teachers table.
The headmaster moved from his place and walked the great hall and she watched him observing his mannerisms and how he had the command of the entire room. She could feel the power radiating off of him and it made her blood tingle. She wanted that someday, not necessarily at the school, but wherever she ended up she wanted that kind of authority. As he stepped up to the front the hall hushed, and he spoke. She would listen intently hanging on every word not wanting to miss a single thing. She had not expected all of this be so intimidating and overwhelming so she wanted to take as much in as she could to try and make things easier.
When the sorting hat interrupted the headmaster Santario’s hand shot to her mouth as she caught the giggle that attempted to escape. As the professor continued her eyes went to each of the Heads of House as they were introduced, but when Professor Jensen was introduced, she was struck with awe. Another surreal experience because if she was to follow her family that would be her head of house. Everyone in her family had been sorted into Slytherin and she was the last pureblood carrying their family name. Even though her parents said they would be proud of her no matter where she went, she still felt like she would let them down.
She smiled as the sorting hat sang but when it was done she felt dread. Names started being called with houses called out by the sorting hat not too often after. She felt like she had just entered the hall and all of a sudden “Santario Martin” was called out. She refused to look afraid as she squared her shoulders and put on a stone face while brushing her long braid over her shoulder to lay flat upon her back. She would take her place upon the stool and the hat placed upon her head.
“Ahhh… I have not seen one from your family in a while… Your family has all been Slytherin but do you possess the same determination they did? I sense a thirst for knowledge and yet also a desire to help people. Yet I can not deny that it is all overshadowed by your fierce determination to succeed. I know that you will let nothing stop you in whatever it is that you desire. I pray you choose wisely in your endeavors.”
‘I will.’ She thought confidently and immediately after that hat called out “SLYTHERIN”
Relief flooded her as the hat was removed and she made her way to the Slytherin table and like her family she would do Slytherin proud.
Her mother told her about the headmaster so although he was intimidating in his armor, she did expect him to be everything that he was. When they entered the Great Hall she had to stifle a gasp of shock, because this was huge and there were so many people! ‘I’ve never seen this many people at once before.’ She thought as her blue eyes darted around taking everything in from the four long house tables to the teachers table.
The headmaster moved from his place and walked the great hall and she watched him observing his mannerisms and how he had the command of the entire room. She could feel the power radiating off of him and it made her blood tingle. She wanted that someday, not necessarily at the school, but wherever she ended up she wanted that kind of authority. As he stepped up to the front the hall hushed, and he spoke. She would listen intently hanging on every word not wanting to miss a single thing. She had not expected all of this be so intimidating and overwhelming so she wanted to take as much in as she could to try and make things easier.
When the sorting hat interrupted the headmaster Santario’s hand shot to her mouth as she caught the giggle that attempted to escape. As the professor continued her eyes went to each of the Heads of House as they were introduced, but when Professor Jensen was introduced, she was struck with awe. Another surreal experience because if she was to follow her family that would be her head of house. Everyone in her family had been sorted into Slytherin and she was the last pureblood carrying their family name. Even though her parents said they would be proud of her no matter where she went, she still felt like she would let them down.
She smiled as the sorting hat sang but when it was done she felt dread. Names started being called with houses called out by the sorting hat not too often after. She felt like she had just entered the hall and all of a sudden “Santario Martin” was called out. She refused to look afraid as she squared her shoulders and put on a stone face while brushing her long braid over her shoulder to lay flat upon her back. She would take her place upon the stool and the hat placed upon her head.
“Ahhh… I have not seen one from your family in a while… Your family has all been Slytherin but do you possess the same determination they did? I sense a thirst for knowledge and yet also a desire to help people. Yet I can not deny that it is all overshadowed by your fierce determination to succeed. I know that you will let nothing stop you in whatever it is that you desire. I pray you choose wisely in your endeavors.”
‘I will.’ She thought confidently and immediately after that hat called out “SLYTHERIN”
Relief flooded her as the hat was removed and she made her way to the Slytherin table and like her family she would do Slytherin proud.
Healing Sage: +30% healing | Prodigal Charms | Impartial | Fearless
Stamina : 10 | Evasion : 7 | Strength : 3 | Wisdom : 12 | Arcane Power : 10 | Accuracy : 15
Stamina : 10 | Evasion : 7 | Strength : 3 | Wisdom : 12 | Arcane Power : 10 | Accuracy : 15