[i]What are those halfbreed-lovers talking about down there?[/i] Corvus wondered to himself, as he looked down on two of his teachers conversing among the growing throng of students who were making their way up to the castle.  [i]I suppose next they'll want to invite centaurs from the forest to attend.  Give them wands, let them use our magic... We'll see.[/i]  With a glance at the sun's position in the sky, he decided it was time he was present in the Great Hall.  Professor Black swept down from the wall and descended into the castle.  

~~~

The Great Hall was growing crowded.  Older students were gathering at their house tables, while First Year students were herded by Professor Dante into a neat line.  Dante was a plump, smiling man of middle age.  His hair was thin and graying, and he wore a very plain brown robe.  He was doting on the younger students in his charge, tweaking noses affectionately, and giving out sweets when he didn't think any other teachers were watching.