Vicious Circles ((Skyler and Cougar))

[Aurora Chan]

Aurora gazed down lucidly at her extremely long shopping list with a halfhearted sigh, cursing the thing known as shopping. If only wizards had such things as online shopping… It would make her life so much easier. She wouldn’t have to make this inconvenient, compulsory annual trip to Diagon Alley for supplies for the upcoming school year. Aurora didn’t mind the wizarding area so much; on the contrary, it was an exciting, bustling place. However, every year Aurora was forced to run up and down the alleyways in a mad dash, and obtaining the needed items often took more than two long hours. It sounded easy really; write up a shopping list, and list the shops that sold those specific things, then map out a general route judging from which shops were nearest to one another. Finally go down to Diagon Alley and buy everything, going from one shop to another. However, it had never been that easy. Not once during this annual trip had Aurora ever managed to purchasing Helix had taken more than an hour in itself, because the original owl Aurora had chosen managed to escape. Second year had culminated in Aurora accidentally missing something off her list and having to return to her starting point all over again. And last year, since Leo too was coming to Hogwarts, the length of time taken had doubled. Aurora nearly groaned to herself again. This year, there was Ariane and Harmony to think of too.

Tucking a strand of stray black hair behind her ear, Aurora gazed out of the corner of her eye at her brother and cousins. They’d all managed to acquire new dress robes – Aurora’s lavender, Harmony’s a pale buttercup yellow, and Ari crimson red – along with most other stuff. One of the main items left were the required schoolbooks for this year, and materials such as quills and parchment. No doubt their next stop was to be Flourish and Blotts. Aurora was still turning over in her mind what subjects she planned on taking for NEWTs. Unlike Harmony and Leo, who both had compulsory book lists, Aurora and Ariane would be buying textbooks in accordance to what they planned to take for NEWTs for the upcoming year, despite the fact that they hadn’t even been cleared for the subjects yet. Though the OWL results they had received a few days ago helped them make their impending decisions. There was no doubt in Aurora’s mind she was going to do Charms and Transfiguration; there couldn’t possibly be a problem with her taking them, because she had gained Outstandings in both, along with the extremely easy Muggle Studies. For Arithmancy, Astronomy, Care of Magical Creatures and Defence Against The Dark Arts, she had gotten Exceeds Expectations, and Aurora knew her next and last three subjects would most probably be picked from those choices. She couldn’t possibly take Herbology and Potions, which she had gotten Acceptables for; not because not only was that almost certainly not good enough for NEWT level, but because she hated science-based subjects anyway. Aurora was praising the gods she didn’t have to continue life with Professor Snape on her back all the time.

For Aurora, her next two choices were Defence Against The Dark Arts and Arithmancy. However, she still had not decided what her last subject would be: Muggle Studies, Astronomy, or Care of Magical Creatures? The latter Aurora was sure was out of the question, so… Out of the remaining two, Aurora supposed she’d go for Muggle Studies. After all, Aurora was such a muggle know-it-all. The exam had been extremely easy for her, and she didn’t really mind what her last subject would be. Aurora looked up at Ariane, and wondered what her cousin would decide to do. Expectedly, Ari had gained Outstandings in all her subjects, and she most probably would take Transfiguration Charms, Potions, Herbology, Arithmancy, and Defence Against The Dark Arts. This meant six subjects, so Aurora knew her cousin would have to narrow them down, or request to take them all. Now entering Flourish and Blotts, Aurora shelved her thoughts aside; she had come to the conclusion that she’d take Transfiguration, Charms, Muggle Studies, Defence Against The Dark Arts and Arithmancy. Quite honestly, when Professor Sprout had asked her what she planned to do for the future, Aurora had absolutely no idea. A lot of her mind lay loyal to the muggle world, despite her being pureblooded, and her passion lay in nothing magical apart from using magic – music and books. In all honesty, she didn’t want to think about it yet.

“I’m going to ask McGonagall if I can take six subjects.” Ariane informed Aurora when they entered the shop, scouring her own book list. “I can’t decide which one to drop, so…”
“I’ll go get your Transfiguration, Charms, Arithmancy and Defence Against The Dark Arts stuff then.” Aurora offered, since they’d be sharing that many subjects. Nodding her approval, Ariane went in one direction, Aurora the other, leaving Harmony and Leo to go find their necessary textbooks. Aurora made her way past several other people to the Transfiguration section first, almost bumping into somebody along the way. Brushing herself down with a grimace, Aurora finally reached the desired section and looked up and down for the needed books. Tracing her finger along the spines of each one, she muttered under her breath the name, hoping to find a match. That was, until her hand hit someone else’s, and alarmed, Aurora’s arm swung away. “Oh, sorry!” Turning, Aurora saw a much younger boy beside her, and tilting her head to one side, she found she didn’t recognise him. Not a Hogwarts student then? But gazing down at his other hand, he seemed to be holding a book list… a Hogwarts one at that. “Ooh, are you coming to Hogwarts next year? I don’t recognise you!” Aurora exclaimed cheerfully, extending a hand in greeting. “Hi, I’m Aurora Chan, it’s nice to meet you. You’ll love Hogwarts, I guarantee it.” She nodded enthusiastically, “I’m in Hufflepuff, going into my sixth year… If you want, I can show you around when you get there.”

[phantomlynx]

Skyler sighed. It was a beautiful day. The sky was completely cloudless save one which seemed to be following the sun casting a nice shade over the alley. A beautiful day for shopping that is. Skyler was getting tired of shopping. He was not a 14-year-old girl and didn't like shopping. He was beginning to think that maybe he would never have all the supplies needed for school. It seemed every chance his mother got she took him to Diagon Alley. But Skyler was noticing that she might want to come to the Alley for her own purposes. She took every chance she got to give him the slip. The first time he was there she dropped him off at the wand shop where he had to endure a long drawn out conversation with Andrew Thornton, another student at Hogwarts. He only seemed to be interested in what house Skyler was going to go into. At the time Skyler had no idea what a "house" was or why you would want to go into it. Drew tried to explain it to him but that confused Skyler even more. All that energy that he had was painful to watch.

The second time Skyler had come to Diagon Alley his mother had left him to show his father her "special" place. Whatever that meant. He really didn't care to know so he went into Madame Malkin's. There he met Hope King, another student at Hogwarts (Does everyone go there? thought Skyler). She was as different from Drew as night and day. She was quiet and reserved something that Skyler greatly appreciated. She was also going to be a first year this fall (At least I'll know someone). Hope was almost rude and Skyler thought that she probably didn't have a lot of social skills.

But this was his third and hopefully final time at Diagon Alley. Today he needed to go to the book shop to pick up some required texts. Looking over his list he asked his mother, "What is transfiguration?" He mom took a double take before answering. Skyler was not usually one to ask questions but he seemed to be interested in learning about his magical side. She sighed in pure bliss before answering. She had finally found something that her son would talk to her about.

"That's when something becomes something else," she said. Seeing Skyler's blank expression she continued, "Oh yes, there was one time when... stay close Skyler..." for Diagon Alley was full of people today. "This one time in school we learned how to turn a paper clip into a beetle." Skyler was fascinated by this and could not wait to get the book so he could learn more of its mysteries. Soon they came upon a store which Skyler soon learned was Flourish and Blotts. But before they went in Skyler waited until his mother thought of another excuse to leave him once again. "Umm..." she started. "I have-"

"I'll see you here in an hour." Skyler stated. His mother smiled and nodded and walked away. Skyler vaguely wondered where she went to as he entered the shop. The shop was packed full of students, wizards, and witches all trying to buy one book or another. Skyler looked at his list and saw that the first book was The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk. He skipped down the list until his eyes again met A Beginners' Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch. He pushed his way (and sometimes was pushed back) to the transfiguration section of the store. His hand was brushing over each title when a girl accidentally hit it. She apologized and introduced herself as Aurora Chan.

"Skyler Willis," he answered. "I am going to Hogwarts next year. Hufflepuff is a house isn't it? You don't think it would be strange for a sixth year to show a first year the ropes?"

[Cougar Farmer R7]

"Thank you, London. I've got just one more for you." Cougar screamed into nowhere in particular. He was on stage (in his bedroom), rocking out to a sold out crowd (consisting of a mirror, dresser and his amp), singing into a professional quality microphone (a hairbrush shoved into a mic stand). Yep, He was living the dream. He hammered out a random power chord, and readied himself for the "encore." (Since the "crowd loved him so much.) "Ladies and gentlemen, I will leave you with a little cover/number here. This is Life's Been Good originally by Joe Walsh. Cougar head the imaginary drum riff in his head as he awaited his drummer to nod him in.

Finally, Cougar's time to shine. He let out a bend followed by some well placed notes that made up the intro the the cover song he was playing. He jammed it hard for the remainder of the intro before going soft again for the riff right before the verse and the verse, "I have a mansion, forget the price. Ain't never been there they tell me it's nice. I live in hotels, tear out the walls, I have accountants pay for it all. They say I'm crazy, but I have a good time. I'm just looking for clues at the scene of the crime, Life's been good to me so far."

Six minutes (and a ten minute finishing solo) later, Cougar puts down his guitar and gets dressed for his day out. He was very excited about it. Not that it was anything new, He had been doing this for four years. He was just happy to get out of the house and do something new. This summer had been relatively boring for him, and he was anxious to see what would happen. That, and get a jump start on his school books. He was hoping if he got a Small headstart then this year's curriculum would come that much as a sudden shock from not doing anything over the summer to suddenly working again. Cougar put his long blonde hair into a pony tail after brushing it until it was silky, put on a pair of blue jeans and a light blue polo (Hey, he needed new robes anyway. He might as well stay comfortable until he got them.), and started for the fireplace.

"Hey, dad, I'm gone to Diagon Alley. I'll be back later." Cougar called to his dad who was in the study doing who knows what. He had a bad knack for studying to do really messy and usually failure experiments. "Okay, hurry home, see you at dinner, sport." was the reply that Cougar got from his busy dad. He didn't mind much he was ready to be gone. He had had the rebellious "I can make it on my own" feeling washing over him lately. He was ready to be out of the house and imagine what it would be like once he finally set out on his own. With a hasty grab for floo powder, and a step in the fireplace, Cougar was on his way to Diagon Alley.

Cougar had decided the the robes would come first since they would take the longest and he could get the rest of what he needed while these were being made. "To Madam Malkin's." Cougar said aloud to no one in particular. He always felt awkward when she measured him, but he stayed still and (according to the lady who made said robes) the fruits of Cougar staying still would be ready in a few hours. Next off, sweets. Cougar had a very sweet tooth and figured that he could munch while looking for his books later.

An hour, 3 bags of Bertie Bott's Every flavor Beans, 2 butterbeers, and a foot ache later, Cougar had found himself in Flourish and Blott's Book Store. He was skimming over the list of required books, ad noticed that he was nearest to the charms section, so after a few minutes of searching, he found the book he required and put it in his bag to keep up with it until check out. Next up, Transfiguration. Cougar was passing casually to the section when he saw a small boy he could swear he recognized. Cougar watched him intently. He wondered where he knew him when it hit him like a brick. He had seen him in a museum before. Before Cougar got there, however, He chuckled at the awkward situation the had occurred between the boy's hand and a sixth year that Cougar didn't know. He walked over to the couple and engaged himself in the conversation.

"Wow, kid, I wish I was as lucky as you when I was a firstie." Cougar gave him a wink and proceeded to introduce himself (more to the new sixth year than the boy) as Cougar Farmer, a Ravenclaw going into his fourth year. "Aurora, right? It's a pleasure. I just heard you tell this little stud here your name so..." With this Cougar gave Skyler a little "nookie" on his head playfully. "So, Transfigurations. Great, right?" Cougar added sarcastically. He may have found some new people to spend the next term with.

(( Skyler: It just occured to me that it was OUR post that I have been missing. Would you like to continue it? Sorry, I just let it slip by me. I forgot we had it ;D)

[Aurora Chan]

Aurora smiled kindly at Skyler once hearing his name, and his following comment. “Oh, not at all. Hogwarts is a lovely, friendly place to be. Well… I suppose the Slytherins would disagree, and my advice is to stay away from ones who are looking for a fight…” Aurora trailed off, looking down at Skyler observantly. She wondered what house this kid would be in soon, though she was pretty sure he wasn’t Slytherin material; otherwise he might’ve just told her to get lost. “Yes, Hufflepuff is a house; we have four houses: Hufflepuff, named after Helga Hufflepuff, the one I’m in; the main house colour is yellow, and our mascot is a badger. Then there’s Ravenclaw, named after Rowena Ravenclaw, sporting blue and a Raven, its name is quite self-explanatory. They’re all pretty clever, Ravenclaws.” Aurora grinned, listing the several pieces of information to Skyler so he was prepped for his first day at Hogwarts. “Gryffindors, named after Godric Gryffindor, the red house with a lion, I think it is…” Aurora pondered this for a moment, before smiling.

“My brother and cousin are both in Gryffindor, yet I’m not even sure of the creature that represents it! Oh silly me. And finally, there’s Slytherin, named after Salazar Slytherin. Usually you’re pure blooded if you’re in that house, and quite a nasty piece of work on the outside. I can’t say I have any friends there…” Aurora admitted regretfully. “Anyway, they’re represented by a snake and the main colour is green. Does that explain the houses to you? I’m sorry for bombarding you with information like this, but it’s good to have background history knowledge before you go in. I wasn’t prepared at all the first time I entered Hogwarts.” Aurora grimaced in remembrance. “You’re sorted into the houses by putting the Sorting Hat on your head in front of the school, so… be ready for that. It’s not difficult, just nerve wrecking since so many people are staring at you.” Aurora explained with a small smile.

That was when a voice interrupted Aurora; turning around she saw a familiar face of a younger boy, and she smiled immediately when he introduced himself. “Yep, it’s Aurora Chan. Hm, I think I knew your name already, Cougar!” Aurora admitted with a smile as she observed him closely, mind sifting through the various people she knew from Hogwarts. “I’ve never spoken to you before, but I’ve heard of you. I know most people’s names.” Aurora smiled wryly. “But it’s lovely to meet you too. I’m always up for meeting new people, like Skyler here.” Aurora tilted her head towards her new acquaintance. “So, Cougar, which house d’ya think he’ll be in, from the looks of things? Skyler, you should tell us a bit about yourself; perhaps we can foretell your future house!” Aurora suggested with a grin. “Most people in each house have particular traits. Like I said, Ravenclaws tend to be clever students. Hard working ones, anyway. I’m not sure what trait Huffles bear though…” Aurora shrugged with a smile.

Hearing Cougar’s complaint about Transfiguration, Aurora turned to him with a playful grin. “Aw, you don’t like Transfiguration?! That’s a shame, I think it’s a brilliant subject; I’m taking it for my NEWTs next year. Professor McGonagall is strict, but she’s a good teacher. I just think it’s a really fun subject, being able to do so much magic.” Aurora enthused happily; Transfiguration along with Charms had always been her favourite subjects. “So what do you like, Cougar? Seeing as you’re not a Transfiguration person. How about Potions? I can’t stand Professor Snape, so glad I’m dropping it next year.” Aurora nodded contentedly to herself, then turning to Cougar. “You probably don’t know much about the subjects on offer and the teachers there. Well, word of advice: If you’re not in Slytherin, stay away from Professor Severus Snape. He’s the Head of Slytherin and the Potions teacher, one heck of a scary guy. He hates everyone but Slyths… He absolutely can’t stand me and my bubbliness. “ Aurora giggled with a non-caring shrug. “Any subjects or professors you want to hear about? I’m sure Cougar and I are happy to oblige, aren’t we, Cougar?” Aurora smiled at the Ravenclaw; he seemed a nice kind of guy, and she was happy to have made another acquaintance.

[phantomlynx]

When Aurora told him that Hogwarts was a friendly place, he smiled to himself. She must be right, he thought. That would explain complete strangers talking to me. He listened intently as she explained the houses. She was doing a much better job than Drew had. Skyler could tell that she liked to talk and make conversation although it was rather one sided since he did not know much about the wizarding world. He was glad that she liked to talk. She was very informative and didn't seem to care about the weather or what was the hottest colour that season. Skyler liked Aurora. She was nice. And she seemed to care about Skyler even though they were complete strangers. It was nice not to have the reputation of the "weird one." Skyler knew that at Hogwarts he could have a fresh new start. All his anxiety of starting at a new school was slowly melting away until she mentioned the Sorting Hat. You are sorted in front of the entire school? Skyler wasn't sure that he liked that thought. "But I still don't see why students are sorted. Why point out the differences? Wouldn't the school try to teach everyone to be equal?" he asked Aurora.

She was just about to answer when Skyler heard another voice. Skyler turned to see Cougar Farmer, a boy that he had met previously, coming towards them. Skyler blushed slightly thinking about their first encounter. He had been at an art museum with his daycare when he ran into Cougar. Cougar said something to Skyler and winked at him. Why is he always winking at me? Cougar introduced himself to Aurora than gave Skyler head a rub with his knuckle. Skyler didn't know exactly how to react. He didn't have older siblings who gave him "nookies" nor uncles. All Skyler could think of doing was saying, "Ouch."

Skyler rubbed his head while Aurora and Cougar talked about transfiguration with Professor Mc... Mc.... Mc something or other. When she mentioned Professor Snape he could how serious she was. Skyler thought that that expression didn't suit her well but she soon giggled again which Skyler thought suited her a lot better. Aurora paused waiting to hear a little background on Skyler. "My mum is a witch and my dad's not. Of course he's not a witch, I mean that he is not magical. I grew up outside of the wizarding world and led a pretty normal life. At least I think it was normal, but who knows what normal is now. I don't like idle chit-chat and therefore didn't make many friends in grade school. The only reason some talked to me was that they wanted me to play football with them. I'm pretty good. I've gotten fairly good marks in school so that was never a problem. My parents think I hate them because I don't engage in conversation with them. They're both hoping that Hogwarts will open me up a little." Skyler was shocked. He never had said so much at one time but he wanted to talk with Cougar and Aurora. It was a strange feeling, but a good one.

((Cougar: Don't worry about that other post. I would love to finish it now that you remembered though! But I'm glad you said something about it here.))

[Cougar Farmer R7]

Cougar was slightly disturbed at the rigidity of the guy next to him. Cougar personally thought he just needed to chill out, but He didn't know what the guy could be going through so he figured that his best bet was just to be a friend to the Firstie. "My bad, man." Cougar said to the sign of slight pain from the firstie. "But seriously, how'd you get so lucky." Cougar added another wink and a small laugh. "Ok, really, seriously, I am Cougar (I think I've already said this, but in case you didn't catch it.). I am a fourth year in the best house there is... Ravenclaw. You know, if you play your cards right maybe I'll be able to shake hands with you as you walk to join us st the Ravenclaw table after being sorted.

"You know," Cougar continued with his focus on Aurora, "Hufflepuff isn't bad I guess. But, sorry Arora, but Ravenclaw is best." With this Cougar beamed. He also continued immediately with his conversation with Aurora, "You have heard of me? I mean of course you have. Who hasn't," Cougar winked yet again. "So what have you heard? 'The long-haired boy from Ravenclaw?' 'The girly guy?' As you could probably tell I get alot of grief from the guys about my hair." As he said this he let his long, blonde hair sway out as he pulled out the ponytail and let his hair fall out. "By the way, Skyler, (not that you seemed to have any trouble with it as things seem) you know, long hair is a easy topic starter for the ladies." He was proud of his hair. He really didn't just keep it because i got ladies to talk to him, but that seemed to be an added bonus.

"I dunno, I'd have to hear about him more to make an accurate guess, but so far I'd have to say Gryff. He hasn't talked much." Cougar sort of let out a quick grunt of a laugh, and continued, "And no offense, Aurora, but I believe what Huffies are know for is maybe their, um..., Bubliness?" Cougar tried to word his sentence correctly as to not cause offense to anybody.

"You mean you like Transfigurations? I don't see how. It's just not my thing I guess. I'm more of Flitwick's star student." Cougar beamed once again. "Charms is the thing for me. And, actually, I don't love the teacher by any means, but I actually like the actual course of Potions. I think if we had a different teacher it would be wonderful. But you are right. Snape is a right foul git. I feel very proud to say that he has never deducted points form Ravenclaw because of me. Oh, Skyler, You'll love Flitwick. He is the Charms teacher, a small lad, but very adept at using charms. A very good teacher I personally think. Sure, of course, I'll be happy to assist you in any way. If you have any homework help when you get there I'm the man to go to."

Cougar listened to Skyler's story and his interest began to climb he couldn't wait to learn about this pretty girl and this mysterious guy.

[Aurora Chan]

((Apologies for the length. ))

“Cougar, I’m just explaining something to Skyler about houses… Perhaps you can help me with his question. He wants to know why we’re sorted into our separate houses, and why don’t we promote equality.” Aurora screwed up her face in thought at Skyler’s question, considering the answer she would give in her head. She too had wondered often before why they were sorted like this into houses. Although everyone (probably except most of the Slytherins) socialised with one another, regardless of house, you could see the differences sometimes between them. It was easier to hang out with people from your house, because you spent a lot of time with them. Back in first year, you had lessons in houses, and you shared a common room and perhaps a dormitory. It was easy to befriend those you spent more time with, and therefore most of your friends were most likely going to be in the same house. Just like in muggle schools, where you would probably be best friends with somebody from your class. “I suppose it’s because it gives you opportunities to meet people similar to you.” Aurora shrugged with a slight frown. She had never had much of problem befriending other people from Ravenclaw and Gryffindor, but she had to admit she found making friends with Hufflepuffs easier, because she saw them often, and you shared the same goals in the sense you that wanted Hufflepuff to rise about the rest. “Perhaps it instigates a bit of friendly rivalry, tries to draw the best out in you. Not that I’ve ever reacted to that. I’m not competitive in any way.” Aurora suggested with a wry grin. Most of her younger and older acquaintances were in Hufflepuff, but despite this, Aurora had never been one to judge a person by house and appearance. It didn’t matter to her.

“I’m sorry, Skyler. That is one tough question you’ve asked me. Perhaps you should shed your opinion, Cougar? Or maybe you should ask a professor when you arrive at Hogwarts, Skyler. Maybe even Professor Dumbledore himself. He’s the headmaster, a really great guy. He’s like… the strongest wizard in all of history… or something like that.” Aurora laughed, not really sure about the facts on Hogwarts’ headmaster, but was sure that Dumbledore was indeed a brilliant wizard. “Personally, I think the houses gives you a reason to belong somewhere… Like a surrogate family. And I suppose people with similar traits would get along better in a “family”, right? Families are meant to share similar things from heritage.” Aurora turned to Cougar for his point of view, wondering if he had ever pondered over the matter himself. She giggled at his affectionate knock against Skyler’s head, and pouted with amusement. “Aw, don’t bully Skyler now, Cougar. You’ll frighten him off.” Aurora sent Cougar a mock glare then, rather affronted that this boy was saying Ravenclaw was the best house. She didn’t think Hufflepuffs were any higher than Ravenclaws, but she certainly didn’t deem that they were the best. Aurora believed in equality, and what made you better than anyone wasn’t the house you were in, but your own actions. She was about to open her mouth to relay her own opinion, because although she wasn’t offended, because she respected that Cougar had his own opinions, and of course he should think his own house best, Aurora wanted to share her side of the story too, but Cougar’s change of topic to his hair drew her away for the time being. “You should ignore what they say about your hair.” Aurora spoke firmly with an encouraging smile. “I think it’s fine. I really like blonde hair, probably because it’s something an oriental girl like me could never have. If you want your hair long, and you like it that way, don’t let anyone stop your beliefs, right?”

“You don’t really look like a girl, anyway.” Aurora confirmed, shaking her head. “And no, I haven’t heard anything like that about you; no rumours as of yet. I don’t glue myself to rumours, unlike most girls… They’re usually unfounded and ridiculous anyway. I’ll only believe a rumour until I have solid proof… I just hear most people’s names because I get around a lot. I have a few friends in your year, and in your house too, Cougar. That’s probably why I know who you are. I’m like… a secret stalker.” Aurora joked, before returning to Cougar’s hair. “Hey, you know, your hair might even be longer than mine!” She laughed when Cougar gave Skyler some “advice” about talking to the ladies, and interrupted before the Ravenclaw could elaborate any further. “Oh, I wouldn’t listen to him, if I were you, Skyler. If you want advice on girls, you can come to me. I am a girl after all. Guys think they know everything nowadays, don’t they?” She laughed, her eyes flickering back to Cougar meaningfully. “I can’t say I enjoy talking about my hair, though I am a different girl to most… If you want what we call… a ‘shallow’ girl, then yeah, hair is probably the best way forward. If you want someone a little more… interesting…” Aurora shrugged with a teasing grin. “I would go for something less trivial. That’s my advice.” She listened then as Skyler related his family and background to them both, taking in the facts and trying to come up with a solution for which house he would best suit. When Cougar mentioned Skyler might be a Gryffindor, Aurora intervened with her own opinion. “I’m not sure… but I wouldn’t say Gryffindor entirely. I personally think the quieter ones are either in Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. Of course, we Huffles get an all round of quiet and loud. My general view if that Ravens are generally quiet, Gryffs loud, and Slytherins keep to themselves, with Huffles in between. I’ve always seen most Gryffindors as bold, exciting people, but I must admit, my cousin’s nothing like that.” Aurora admitted, thinking back on Ariane’s personality; it was no wonder people though her to be a Slytherin, or even a Ravenclaw with her cleverness. She never talked much.

“I think you’re a Ravenclaw, Skyler, like Cougar over here.” Aurora deduced finally, “Though I’m not sure. You seem pretty inquisitive, what with that deep question you asked me back there, and you said you have quite good grades; plus you’re quite a quiet guy – I think quiet guys belong in Ravenclaw. I don’t know how you’re in that house, Cougar!” Aurora joked, turning to the other boy. “To be honest, you don’t strike me as a Raven at all… You’re so upbeat and friendly… I could even say rather flirtatious. You remind me more of a Gryffie yourself.” Aurora admitted honestly. “But anyway, Skyler, I don’t think you’re a Slytherin. Otherwise you would’ve cursed us both by now, haha. Plus you’re not pureblooded, and don’t seem to have a thing against muggles. Slytherins are al for purebloods, as I told you before. You might be in Hufflepuff like me. But anyway, we’ll see when you get into Hogwarts, right? I’m sure you’ll be fine whichever house you’re in. If you need any help, regardless of house, I’ll be there for you if you need me.” Aurora smiled encouragingly, before blinking and turning to Cougar with a large grin. “I suppose we are, a lot of us. Me especially. Then again, not everyone is in Hufflepuff. There are many different people there.” Aurora wasn’t too offended by Cougar’s remark, because it was true on her account, but she had to admit, his biased thinking was starting to irk her if only a little. However, she hid it well, never one to confront anyone. “I really can’t not agree with you more, Cougar. As much as I have respect for my fellow Ravenclaws, I think everyone is equal. Even the Slytherins. You can’t judge someone based on house alone.” Aurora stated her opinion firmly.

“Ah, Charms, eh?” Aurora smiled now, wiping away any annoyance she felt beforehand. “That’s my other favourite subject. To be honest, anything involving magical activity scores high with me. That’s why Transfiguration and Charms are my favourites. But Charms being your favourite subject isn’t a surprise really, Cougar. After all, Flitwick is the head of Ravenclaw.” Aurora smiled. “Can’t say I enjoy Herbology anymore than I do now though. I’m dropping that too. I hate everything about Potions; both the subject and Snape. I’m just not much of a sciencey person. Sorry, Skyler,” Aurora turned to the younger boy with an apologetic expression. “You probably have no idea what’s going on. Every house has a teacher as the head. Professor Sprout teaches Herbology, which is like biology in the muggle world. She’s the head of Hufflepuff. Professor Flitwick, like I said, is the head of Ravenclaw, and he teaches Charms. Professor McGonagall I’ve mentioned previously, and she’s the head of Gryffindor and the teacher of Transfiguration; she’s also the deputy headmistress. Finally, there’s Snape… I’ve already told you about him.” Aurora grimaced. “There are also other subjects, like Arithmancy, which in other words, is maths… Ancient Runes, History of Magic… And more.”

[phantomlynx]

Skyler was wondering if he was ever going to find all his books. This conversation with Aurora and Cougar was fascinating, but nonetheless he was no closer to finding his books. After another wink from Cougar, Skyler turned back to the shelf and looked for A Beginners' Guide to Transfiguration. He listened as Cougar and Aurora began to discuss which house was better. Skyler thought that Cougar was trying to get a rise out of Aurora and she was not taking the bait. Good for you Aurora, thought Skyler. All of a sudden Cougar changed the subject to his hair. Skyler glanced at him and saw that Cougar had let it out of his pony-tail. It does look rather girly, he thought but said nothing. He turned back to the shelf to look for the book. This should not be this hard, just as he thought this though the book seemed to appear out of nowhere as if the book was tired of its hide-and-seek game. Skyler turned back to Cougar and Aurora with his newly attained book just as Cougar said long hair is an easy way to start a conversation with the "ladies."

Skyler looked at the two Hogwart students standing in front of him. He thought that he noticed a difference between the way Cougar looked at Skyler and the way he looked at Aurora. "I'm eleven," Skyler stated to Cougar as if this would explain everything going on in his mind. "I'm not so interested in attracting the 'ladies'." No sooner than he had said these than Cougar and Aurora were once again debating the houses. Skyler sighed silently to himself. Was your house really THAT important? That's all that Drew had wanted to know and it was all that these two seemed to want to talk about, although Skyler loved to observe people and these two talking to each other with so much passion was very fun to watch. Again Skyler noted a slight difference in how Cougar talked with Aurora than when he talked with Skyler. Cougar seemed to tease Aurora in a way that was different than when he teased Skyler, though he couldn't put his finger on it. He was torn from these thoughts when Cougar said: "but I believe what Huffies are known for is maybe their, um..., Bubbliness?"

Skyler turned towards Aurora. She was energetic. Skyler thought that "bubbly" was a poor choice of words though. "Aurora doesn't seem bubbly to me," he responded to her question. "Bubbly is a word I would use to describe a ditz. However, you're the only Hufflepuff that I have met and so I can't fairly judge the house." He felt very awkward at this moment as he didn't believe that was the answer that Aurora wanted. He looked down at the list in his hand and read it over again. He listened as Cougar and Aurora talked about classes. He had no idea what they were, they were just words to him so he was glad when Aurora explained them to him in regular terms. A Flitwick, the head of Ravenclaw? He was just going to ask about it when Aurora turned towards him and answered his question as if she had read his mind. Just than a thought struck him. He glanced at the list in his hand and asked: "One of my books is called, The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection. Is there really a need to protect yourself from Dark Forces?

[Aurora Chan]

Aurora stifled a laugh of mirth at Skyler’s almost sarcastic comment in reply to Cougar. She silently applauded the younger boy for his comeback. How many flirtatious boys from Hogwarts had she met recently? Too many, that was for sure. First Ethan Jacobs, fifth year Gryffindor on the train, and now Cougar Farmer, a fourth year Raven. They just kept coming, Aurora thought to herself with a wry smile. At least little Skyler here seemed more serious about being around women. Aurora admitted she preferred fellow “bubbly” people, and Cougar and Ethan were both rather outgoing and talkative, but yet they were also too into popularity and flirting with women. Aurora preferred a nice mix of bubbliness, friendliness, and calm and sensibility. She had always been a rather odd girl, but people liked her for that. She was nice and fun, but at the same time knew her limits and didn’t tend to socialise with the really popular people. You could say that Aurora was the most well known and liked by the “insignificant” students, because she took the time to know them and become their friends. Aurora hated to let anything go to her head too much, and strayed away from being very good friends with the “in-crowd”.

Aurora gave a loud bark of hysterical laughter as Skyler spoke, peering at him in delight. “I don’t seem bubbly to you, eh? I suppose that’s a good thing, if you think that is a trait of a ditz. I’m not a ditz, not usually anyway. I can be very clumsy, dense and gullible though.” Aurora smiled warmly, always one to make fun of herself. She accepted her own bad traits without question, even though she was a bit of a perfectionist. “People usually call be bubbly, Cougar wouldn’t be the first one. I just have a loud personality, ya know? I don’t know when to stop.” Aurora giggled, giving a roll of her eyes. Skyler was an amusing kid, and she made a mental note to seek him out in the coming year whatever house he was in. She loved making new acquaintances, and didn’t like to lose the bonds she made. One of Aurora’s personal rules. Always work hard to maintain a bond. Always. Though she wondered if she was working hard enough with Daniel, and sometimes she lost heart to keep trying with the guy. The harder she tried, the more she kept pushing, the stronger the pull on her shattered, confused heart.

Aurora ceased laughing when Skyler turned to ask her in all seriousness about Defence Against The Dark Arts, basing his question around one of the textbooks he needed for the coming year. “Hm, I remember that book… One second.” Looking around, Aurora took a moment or two with scanning eyes to locate said book, before walking over to retrieve it and return again with it laid in her hands. “Here. Take it now, you’ll need it for lessons.” Aurora smiled kindly, recognising the book and staring at it with fond eyes. She was planning on taking DADA next year, and would be needing more advanced textbooks herself soon. “There is a need to learn Defence Against The Dark Arts, a need to buy these textbooks for the lessons with Professor Foxtrot, and a need to protect yourself.” Aurora nodded firmly in answer to Skyler’s following question. Her eyes grew dark, and a slight frown crossed her forehead. “You never know what’ll happen nowadays. You’ve heard what happened recently. Even with You-Know-Who dead at last… danger is always around the corner. I don’t think Dark Magic will ever die out, and there’s no harm learning to protect yourself, Skyler. Plus if you want to be an Auror, it’s extremely helpful to be adept at defending yourself against Dark Magic.” Aurora finalised with a calm smile.