Because it's either that or walking...

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, and for those of you who don't celebrate it, that you're at least enjoying the holiday break! As for me, I've... been busy. Taking care of Yukimi, for the most part, but it's been memorable, to say the least.

The new year is fast approaching... I trust you're all working on your New Year's Resolutions? Last year, I resolved to walk a couple miles every week, but I'd never imagined that one month later, I'd end up returning to Hogwarts as a professor. It didn't pan out, needless to say.

But, anyway, have you all enjoyed this year? Looking back on it, I... I suppose it went pretty well. Ups and downs on all front, but we certainly were't at a loss for unique stories, were we?

It seems like Anna delivered something to me on time for once! I wish she'd get in the habit of it, really... The letter in question was from Dumbledore. I'm quite honored; it seems I've been appointed Head of House! So as a note to all you Gryffindors out there, don't think that because I'm so lenient in class, I won't be strict as your house's Head. But in any case, let's beat Slytherin into the dust, alright?

[Filtered to whoever read Gabriel's last entry, this includes Gabriel too.]
I realize I may have worried some of you because of an altercation I had with Gabriel and Castiel. I think we've managed to work out most of the problems that went into that misunderstanding, but I'd like you all to know that I'm perfectly fine. And not, in any way, Gabriel's "bitch," though he would claim otherwise. [[oddly enough, those strikes are only hackable to Gabriel. And Castiel if he tries reallllly hard.]]
[/Filter]

It seems I'll be apparating to Monaco after all! Maron, I truly owe you. I'm looking forward to the teacher's conference and then it'll be just a few more days until classes start! This year is going to be exciting, isn't it?

So... It's obvious we've... switched bodies. Somehow. I'd like to ask everyone to remain calm. If the Castle is indeed to blame for this, then it'll likely wear off soon.

This looks like... Miss Fa? I'm doing my best not to startle your family, but they're finding it hard to believe that I'm a professor...

...I guess this puts a bit of a damper on my summer plans.

Well, it certainly took me a while to find my journal, didn't it? I wish I knew how it got in the lake in the first place, but...

In any case, I'd like to remind my students that my lovely Teaching Assistant has dutifully posted the requirements for your next assignment. Remember to hand it in on the 15th, which is the day before the next field trip, so it should be easy to remember!

Speaking of field trips, I'll be joining you all as chaperon, since I know my way around the Ministry. We hardly got any field trips back in my days at Hogwarts, so be sure to make the best of it!

Why do we have to go by train, though? I-I wanted to meet you all there, but Dumbledore said that the train ride was "part of the fun." I'd rather that than the Knight Bus, that's for sure, but... None of you will mind if I pass out, right?

[Filtered to Staff]
It's my first time chaperoning a big event like this, should I be worried?
[/Filtered]

So after discussing the schedule with Professor Yukimi, I think I've got a handle on what you all are giving in class. I'll be picking up where he left off, of course, but adding a few of my own personal touches here and there.

In any case, here are your assignments for the week. They are due at most, on Sunday. (Though I'm sure you all want to enjoy Valentine's Day, so feel free to hand them in early.)

First Years - Second Years: Dark Creatures; Please write an essay on the following subject: Hinkypunks. Include the traits that make them identifiable, where they can be found, and ways that you can defend yourself from them. For extra credit, you may include an additional 10-15cms on the history behind their discovery/the discovery of their countermeasures. Minimum 20 cm. (with extra credit, 30cm)

Third Years - Fourth Years: Dark Creatures; Please write an essay on the following subject: Grindylow. Include the traits that make them identifiable, where they can be found, and ways that you can defend yourself from them. For extra credit, you may include an additional 10-20cms on the history behind their discovery/the discovery of their countermeasures. Minimum 35 cm. (with extra credit, 50cm)

Fifth Years: Please write an essay on Necromancy. I'll be paying close attention to your word choice in describing its history. It's important to portray that you understand the material, so please try to write it in your own words. Also, for extra credit, you may include an additional 20-40cms on any notable past usages or modern takes on this form of magic. Minimum 50 cm. (with extra credit, 70cm)

Sixth - Seventh Years: Protego Totalum Practical. You will be expected to create the largest barrier you can with your abilities. The larger it is, the higher your grade. I will be working alongside Professor Yukimi in this evaluation (so if you don't get it on your first try, I'm afraid I can't help you.)

[[(copy-pasted for your convenience:)
For sixth - Seventh, the floor will be set up with something along these lines. Except.. more round and less crappy. A glass will be set up on the outer rim of each circle. Each student will be asking to cast Protego Totalum with an attempt to make the largest protective bubble they can. Depending on which glasses were spared, will determine their grade.

Say how they did, but I don't want a ton of "they made the biggest bubble ever." This will be a fast paced assignment and if your character doesn't do well under pressure or isn't a fast thinker, they probably didn't do so well.

Homework input is here.]]