So Much for No Strings Attached

Chapter 99 A Very Different Hogwarts

'Good evening,' Babbling said bright eyed. 'First things first to those of you who do not take my class I am Bathsheba Babbling, Professor of Ancient Runes, and the new Head of Gryffindor House. As you are aware there are many changes going on this year as evidenced by the absence of the first years in the House dorms.'

A blonde seventh year proudly wearing her Head girl badge put up her hand, 'what does that mean for the Head boy and girl, and the Prefects?'

'That is a good question, Miss Baldwin,' smiled Babbling. 'You will still be a person of authority that they can come and ask you questions and direction. I encourage you to make yourself known to the first years.

'Now, we get onto subject changes. Firstly, second years - English, Magical Theory and Wizarding Studies are being introduced as core subjects, whilst Astronomy has been changed to an optional subject - if anyone wants to take it in third year, they are more than welcome to do so. Does anyone have any questions?'

A black-haired girl put her hand up, 'do we still get Friday afternoons off?'

There was laughter at that point.

Babbling smiled, 'your last two periods on Friday are still free.'

'Oh, good,' a boy with chestnut hair said.

There was laughter and nods from the other little second years. The rest of the years just rolled their eyes.

'Yes, quite,' agreed Babbling. 'Okay, onto third to fifth years - English and Magical Theory are now core subjects. But you can also choose Astronomy, Duelling, Healing or Wizarding Politics on top of your normal subjects. It does mean that you may wish to change your subject choices. To help you with that the next week is free with the various subjects both new and traditional holding introductory sessions - the times are on the noticeboard. And I will be endeavouring to speak to you all individually to help you decide what you might be interested in - these meetings will become a termly event and your individual times will be posted to you.'

Neville very shakily put his trembling hand in the air.

'Yes, Mister?' asked Babbling.

'Longbottom, ma'am,' Neville said voice wobbling. 'Do you ... do you really ... really think that ... that ... us fifth years will ... will be able to pass new subjects, ma'am?'

'That is a very good question, Mr Longbottom,' smiled Babbling encouragingly. 'I would like to remind you all that you do not have to change your options. If you wish to take a completely new subject, then it may be the case that you take your OWLs in sixth or seventh year. If you have been tutored or have studied independently then doing your OWLs at the end of fifth year should be possible. Are there any other questions?'