The Great Hall

"Indeed." Jim glances at Phoenix. Can he get away with asking her for a word, or would it seem to suspicious? Better not to risk it.

I sit down at the Gryffindor table, grabbing a bite to eat.

Perfect.

Jim leans towards Phoenix, pretending to speak over the noise of the Hall. "Kitten, I know what was happening back there with Puppy. I'm prepared to make you an offer."

-just continues to eat-

OOC: xD I can bring someone in, if you like, to occupy Sarah?

IC:

Phoenix raises an eyebrow. "I've had enough of people trying to-"

"No, listen." Jim gives her a serious look. "I can place you under my... protection. No one will touch you without consequences. But I do want something in return."

Sure, if you want. xD

Celeste skips into the Hall, blonde hair bouncing with her steps. She heads straight over to the Gryffindor table, despite being a Hufflepuff. A change of scene sounds nice.

- - -

"I don't want your protection," she hisses. "I can protect myself!"

Jim bites his lip and looks away, seeming a little sheepish. "Mm, I doubt that, Kitten."

Noticing someone skip into the hall as I eat, I smile, "Well hello there."

Celeste beams at Sarah. "Hi!"

- - -

Phoenix bristles. "What?"

"You weren't exactly handling the situation, dear. I'm just offering some friendly advice."

"For a price."

"Of course."

I continue to smile; it's hard not to when you're around someone so happy. "You seem very happy."

She beams at Sarah and takes a seat. "I always am!"

- - -

"And what is that price?" Phoenix asks.

"Hmm..." Jim considers her. "I think perhaps I'll have to think on it."

"Well, that's great! I'm always average.

"You should try being a bit happier, if you can. It brightens up everyone's day."

- - -

Jim smirks. "Don't worry, Kitten. I'll be in contact." He slips out of the Hall and away. Phoenix shakes her head and goes to join Sarah and Celeste.

I look to Phoenix. "So what did he want?"

Phoenix shrugs. She decides it would be best to tell Eugene or Pixie first. "He was just wondering if I could help him look for Sherlock. I told him I'd let him know."

"Okay then... He just seemed... Strange..."

She can't help but shiver. "He is, a bit."

Celeste tilts her head to the side. "Huh. Cheer up, guys!"

I smile at Celeste. "It's hard not to when you're around."

Phoenix laughs. "You're right... Sarah, isn't it?"

I nod, "I don't think I got your name..."

Phoenix holds out her hand. "Phoenix Flame."

I shake her hand. "That's a nice name!"

Phoenix laughs. "It'd odd, alright. I don't know what was going through my parents' heads at the time."

"I like it! It's unique... Not to mention phoenix's are awesome!"

She blushes a little. "Thanks. If I remember rightly, my parents once told me I'm named after the Order of the Phoenix... Pretty silly reason, really."