Mischief Unmanageable

Chapter Two: The British Are Coming

After the food had disappeared, Headmaster Dumbledore stood from his seat and the Hall immediately grew silent.

"Before our prefects lead their houses back to the common rooms, I have a few quick announcements to make" Dumbledore said.

"First years will be reminded that they are not allowed to have their own broomsticks." At this, there were a lot of groans from the first years.

Marlin didn't even want to look at Ari, she knew exactly what she'd be thinking as soon as she heard the word 'broomstick'.

"It will also be reminded that the forest is banned to all students, on account of its gruesome creatures and the deaths they have caused," Dumbledore continued.

Marlin knew that Ari was grinning like a maniac at this, and she'd be lying if she said she wasn't just as curious.

"And finally, it seems as though some of you," he cut his eye toward the boys at the Gryffindor table.

As Ari looked at all of them, they were all grinning. Except for pale scar man, he just face palmed. He reminded her of Marlin.

"Need to be reminded that pranks in this castle can be very dangerous. And it is advised that you refrain from playing them. Or if you ARE going to, at least dial it down." Dumbledore finished.

Students immediately began talking and laughing.

"Ah, sorry. My bad, everyone!" Dumbledore raised his voice again. The Hall went silent.

"It seems as though someone has already thought it funny to pull a little prank. It is quite hilarious, if I do say so myself, but... since this person has pulled this particular prank, you would do well to stay away from the bathroom in the second floor corridor, as the toilets appear to have minds of their own. Now... I believe I have covered everything. Let us sing the Hogwarts song. Everyone choose your favourite tune, and.... begin!" Dumbledore said.

All around Ari and Marlin, the students began singing. Nobody sounded the same. Ari was having the time of her life, laughing happily as she looked around the room.

Marlin, however was breathing very heavily and very fast. She had no idea why she was having so much anxiety, but it was happening.

"Hogwarts Hogwarts Hoggy-Warty Hogwarts,
Teach us something please,
Whether we be old and bald,
Or young with scabby knees,
Our heads could due with filling,
With some interesting stuff,
For now they're bare and full of air,
Dead flies and bits of fluff,
So teach us things worth knowing,
Bring back what we've forgot,
Just do your best,
We'll do the rest,
And learn until our brains all rot!"

Everyone sang at different paces. And Ari was left staring at the black haired boy across from her. He stared back at her, wiggling his eyebrows at her as he sang to a tune that sounded vaguely familiar... but she couldn't place it.

Marlin watched as Ari blushed a deep shade of red.

"Oh yeah" she thought.
"They are SO getting together."

And with that, the prefects lead everyone to their common rooms.

***

Ari was amazed by the Gryffindor common room. It was warm and cozy. A fireplace lit the room, illuminating the already scarlet coloured walls. The armchairs by the fire were so comfortable that she fell asleep not even two minutes after she sat down.

A gentle hand shook her awake. She groggily opened her eyes, and saw a fair skinned girl. She had red hair and bright green eyes. She smiled softly at Ari.