Suffering Part 6: No Longer

Chapter 28

The Great Hall was abuzz with the energy of the new school year. Hogwarts staff had gathered for a meeting to discuss the upcoming term, and it was clear that everyone had one particular topic on their minds: spellphones. As the magical equivalent of smartphones, these devices had become immensely popular among students over the summer break, much to the dismay of the teachers.

Severus sat beside you at the long staff table, his expression one of stern disapproval. He leaned over and whispered, "This is going to be a nightmare. These devices are a distraction we can hardly afford."

You nodded in agreement, feeling a similar sense of dread. "I know. It's already hard enough keeping them focused without these constant interruptions."

Professor McGonagall stood at the head of the table, tapping her wand to call the meeting to order. "Thank you, everyone, for being here. As we all know, the students will be returning with their spellphones, and it's clear we need a strategy to manage this."

Flitwick sighed, shaking his head. "It was bad enough when they were sneaking in Extendable Ears and Skiving Snackboxes. Now we have to contend with instant communication and distractions in every class."

Hagrid, seated further down the table, rumbled his agreement. "Aye, they're a real bother. Hard to teach 'em about magical creatures when they're more interested in their spellphones."

McGonagall raised a hand to silence the murmurs of agreement. "We've decided on a policy. Spellphones will be confiscated at the beginning of each class and returned afterwards. This will ensure they're not a distraction during lessons."

Professor Sprout nodded approvingly. "It's a sensible solution. They can have their devices during breaks, but they need to be focused during class time."

Severus leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "Confiscating them is one thing, but how do we ensure compliance? These students can be quite resourceful when it comes to hiding things."

McGonagall smiled slightly, clearly anticipating this concern. "Each classroom will be equipped with a new charm, courtesy of Professor Flitwick and myself. It will detect active spellphones and alert the teacher. Additionally, Filch will be conducting random checks."

Filch, who had been silently glaring at the proceedings, nodded eagerly. "I'll make sure none of them get away with it."

You leaned in towards Severus, murmuring, "I'm not looking forward to dealing with the backlash. They are going to be livid."

Severus gave a small, rueful smile. "Let them be. It's for their own good. Distraction-free learning is more important than their immediate gratification."

The discussion continued, with other staff members voicing their thoughts and concerns. Measures were put in place for students who repeatedly broke the rules, including detentions and loss of house points. It was clear that the staff were united in their determination to maintain the integrity of their classrooms.

As the meeting concluded, McGonagall addressed the group one last time. "Thank you all for your input. Together, we can ensure that this year runs smoothly despite the challenges. As our world changes, it must be up to us to adapt and overcome these obstacles. Let's make this a successful term for all our students."

The staff began to disperse, talking in small groups about the upcoming challenges. You and Severus stood, ready to leave.

"Well," you said, feeling a mix of determination and apprehension, "this should be interesting."

Severus placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "We'll manage. We always do."

With that, the two of you made your way out of the Great Hall, ready to face the new school year and the challenges it would undoubtedly bring.