When the students arrived they were not surprised to see Gwen sitting at the head table wearing robes of midnight blue. However they weren’t certain what they should call her. The Gryffindors were particularly keen to see their new assistant Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, and even more so to see her do well.
The sorting proceeded nicely. When all of the new students were sitting in their new houses Dumbledore rose to give his start of term notices.
“I would like to once again reiterate that the Forbidden Forest is strictly forbidden to all students. Mr. Filch would like to remind everyone of the addendum to the Restricted Items List. I believe you will find a copy in his office for your perusal. Sadly, Hogsmeade weekends have been temporarily suspended until further notice.” And after a deep breath: “I would also like to welcome our newest faculty member, Miss LeFey. She will be assisting in the teaching of Defense Against the Dark Arts this term. I expect you all to extend her your warmest welcome.”
There was a mixed amount of warm hearted cheers and scattered applause, some queasy huzzahs and two very distinct boos coming from the Slytherin table. Malfoy she noticed, was silent at the strange display, as was Harry although for very different reasons.
While Draco was trying to come with a plethora of ways to unsettle the new teacher, Harry was gazing at her trying to come up with a way to convince her that they were meant for each other.