The Fox In A Snake Pit!

Slytherin Classes ~Edited Jan 27, 2024

Daphne was curious about Jade's family and wanted to know their thoughts on her decision to come here. She asked, "What about your family, Jade? What do they think about your decision to come here?"

Jade replied truthfully, expressing her family's mixed reactions. She said, "Mr. Green was... well he wasn't thrilled, but he was okay with it in the end. However, his wife had a different reaction. She almost looked like I'd never return again."

Jade, feeling drowsy after savoring a delectable slice of cake, lifted her gaze towards the imposing High Table. At that moment, her attention was captured by the sight of Professor McGonagall engaged in a conversation with Headmaster Dumbledore. The two esteemed figures seemed deep in discussion, their expressions conveying a sense of importance. Meanwhile, nearby stood Professor Quirrell, his appearance made all the more peculiar by an absurd turban atop his head. 

He was engrossed in conversation with another teacher, distinguishable by his greasy black hair, hooked nose, and pale complexion. Their features hinted at a certain air of malevolence. Suddenly, as if drawn by an invisible force, the hook-nosed teacher's gaze pierced through Quirrell's turban, fixed upon the Gryffindor table with an intensity fueled by pure hatred. 

"Oh, that's Professor Snape, our head-of-house. He teaches Potions, but he doesn't want to, everyone knows he's after Quirrell's job," Pansey said as she noticed where Jade was looking. 

Jade watched Snape curiously for a bit longer until the dessert disappeared. Headmaster Dumbledore got up again. The hall fell silent.

"Ahem! Just a few more words now we are all fed. I have a few start-of-term notices to give you. 'First-years should note that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. And a few of our older students would do well to remember that as well." Dumbledore's eyes flashed in the direction of someone at the Gryffindor table.  "I have also been asked by Mr. Filch, the caretaker, to remind you all that no magic should be used between classes in the corridors. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of term. Anyone interested in playing for their house teams should contact Madam Hooch. And finally, I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds for everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."

Jade wondered why practicing magic outside classrooms wasn't allowed but didn't dwell on it long. The restriction felt like a limitation to her curiosity and eagerness to explore the magical world beyond the confines of the school. However, she knew that rules were meant to be followed, even if she didn't fully understand the reasons behind them.

"And now, before we go to bed, let us sing the school song!" cried Dumbledore. 

Jade noticed that the other teachers' smiles had become fixed. Dumbledore gave his wand a small flick as if he was trying to get a fly off the end. A long golden ribbon flew out of it, rising high above the tables, and twisting itself snake-like into words. As the ribbon soared through the air, the words on it shimmered with a magical glow.

~Time skip just after the song~ 

"Ah, music, magic beyond all we do here! And now it's bedtime. Off you go!" Dumbledore said as he wiped an invisible tear from his eye, almost as though remembering fond memories of the song from his childhood as he sent them to find their dorms and sleep.

The Slytherin first-years were told to follow Snape through the chattering crowds, out of the Great Hall, and down a spiral staircase. They walked in single file, their green and silver robes swishing as they made their way through the bustling hall. The students whispered excitedly among themselves, eager to see where their new dormitories would be located. Snape, with his long black cloak billowing behind him, led the way with a stern expression on his face. His voice cut through the noise of the crowd as he instructed the first-years to stay close and keep quiet.