White Scars

Newfound Resolve

"Silence." The towering sorcerer briefly waved his hand as the crowd once again turned towards the staff table. The previous chattering between the English and Japanese exchange students instantly ended.

"As much as I would like to enjoy the festivities further, we have a few things to see to. First, as we've all gathered now. The Forbidden Forest and the entire 3rd floor of this castle is off bounds to any student who does not seek a most horrible and tragic death. You have been warned." What a change in mood. The aged wizards' eyes were completely clear as he uttered those words, it was meant with the utmost sincerity. That just made me all the more curious as to what horrors awaited in those depths. His voice altered, in a much lighter tone as he continued.

"On a lighter note, the house competition will be starting tomorrow, immediately. Everyone, keep on your best behaviour and contribute as much as you can to the glory of your houses. I expect much of all of you. Director Sakayanagi, feel free to take the stage." His right hand gestured to the much younger, yet still mature man.

"Thank you, Professor." The older gentleman wearing thick rimmed glasses, characterised by his shade of peculiar white hair approached.

"With the great success of previous years, it is my hope to keep this agreement between our schools in effect for years to come. As such it is my great pleasure to announce that the prize for this year's house cup winners will be; exclusive use of the room of requirement. The house that wins this year will have exclusive ownership rights to its usage for the entirety of next year." All of the students started whispering excitedly to each other. Assuming the facilities were as special as the crowd made it seem that an entire year's worth of use is certainly a big deal. Could I assume the room was specialised to whatever the user needed? The name itself was a bit suspicious. I couldn't imagine that the room only had one use otherwise there would be students that wouldn't care for it. Rather, every student that wasn't from my batch was also showing the same enthused look. But what would the final year students get in reward? They wouldn't have any stake in the competition if they didn't see the fruits of their labour. I suppose they might be too busy preparing to enter the working world to contribute much.

"Finally, it is my great pleasure to introduce the homeroom teachers for this year's respective houses. Step forward and introduce yourselves." The director gestured with his right arm towards a group of four Japanese adults. Two men and two women. Once again, a perfect ratio.

The man who previously announced the Japanese students for sorting stepped forward. He had a large frame and strict presence. His eyes hovered over the entire hall as he approached and introduced himself. "My name is Mashima Tomonari. You may address me as Professor Mashima. I'll be taking instruction of the first year Gryffindors." With a quick bow he stepped back for the next in the line.

A woman with curly hazelnut hair stepped forward, generous proportions visible even through her robes gave the impression of a maternal figure. With a cheery smile she introduced herself. "Hoshinomiya Chie, it's a pleasure to get to know you all. I'll be taking instruction of the first-year Hufflepuffs. Let's all get along!" A pop in her step she retreated to allow the next teacher forward.

A man with sunken cheeks and a hollow expression. He nudged his glasses further up his nose as he introduced himself indifferently. "Sakagami Kazuma. I'll be taking instruction of the Slytherins this year." He stepped backwards immediately, not caring to add anymore.

The final in the group stepped forward. A woman with black hair that flowed down to her mid back, styled into a ponytail. Her expression was indifferent, her gaze immediately narrowing in on our table. Venom practically seeped out of her voice. "Chabashira Sae. Ravenclaw first-years."