NationStates Jolt Archive

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Sorting Ceremony - Great Hall


As the new year begins, promising to be filled with fun, adventure, and work, students fill into great hall and take their seats at the massive long tables. The hall is adorned elegantly from magical ceiling to candle-lit walls, but most importantly and noticeably, four huge banners hang just beyond the heads of each table, covering the wall in a streak of color from ceiling to floor.

On the right side hung the forest green banner of the Draco house, emblazoned with its house crest: a dragon holding its head high among the ramparts of a castle and breathing fire across the sky. At the table below, the young Dracos sat smugly in their black robes that sported smart green stripes along the upper arms. Those who sat at the table were the sons and daughters of the who's who of pure blood wizarding families. It is long thought to be the purest of houses by Fanatics, and thus the best, and yet also thought to be the wickedest by their opposition. However, their Head of House, Mr. Ivanovic Izzard, is considered a slight compromise, not being as bad as many others from the house.

Next to the long table of Dracos sat the Emantricos. Their Golden yellow banner exuded both sharpness and boldness even in the dim candlelight. The table of students mimicked their crest by creating a ghostly image of Manticore patrolling their table. Their robes were topped along the shoulders with a pair of Golden yellow stripes to match their banner. If nothing else, the Emantricos were thought to be both noble and loyal and all their endeavors. They are led by Mr. Daniel Oxenby, a clever young wizard and the professor of Transfiguration.

The House of Broc lined up next in the progression, headed by Mrs. Audry Silvanis. The Persian blue banner was the darkest of the four, but it exuded a greater sense of house unity as the crest sat not on the banner, but on each individual's robes - a mysterious bit of magic that happened many centuries ago. While the other three banners have large crests and are connected to their house's members by varying stripes of the same color, the House of Broc is quite the opposite: the banner has three silver stripes across while the back of each member's robes have the might Roc encrested on them. The House is considered strong and brave, and many have fought and died in the Blood Wars defending the non pure of blood.

Finally, on the left side sits Draco's nemesis, the House of Titanus, led by the illustrious and powerful Mr. Antonious Kingsley - also the assistant Headmaster. Adorned with Scarlet red, the banner evokes passion as fire quite literally dances up and down the cloth. The crest features what seems to be a pair of men facing each other, but little is known of it and the mysteries and rumors of the crest remain. Three hot red stripes down the back of the robes enables one to identify a Titanus immediately. The house is considered to be smart, strong, and powerful.

With everyone seated at their appropriate tables, there seems to be noticeable gaps in the packs of students: places for the new years to sit. While a raucous still engulfs the Great Hall, the two ornate doors at one end swing open and Mrs. Lucile Dirkan, professor of Muggle Studies, parades in followed by a pack of small, and nervous looking First Years. Marching through the gauntlet of older students, they are brought towards the front of the hall.

On a raised platform lies a table with fourteen distinguished men and woman (and a ghost) sitting around: Mrs. Audry Silvanis, professor of Charms; Mr. Ivanovic Izzard, professor of Jinxing & Defensive Magics; Mrs. Hamil Greyns, professor of Magical History; Mrs. Verna Astora, professor of Potions; Mr. Daniel Oxenby, professor of Transfiguration; Mr. Rudius Cannon, profess or Flying; Mrs. Angela Fekelsby, professor of Ancient Runes; Mrs. Firenza Galilena, professor of Divination/Astronomy; Mr. Antonious Kingsley, Assistant Headmaster and professor of Magical Compression; Mr. Alexander Sagieux Barbelanc, the Headmaster; Mr. Andreiz Miskin, professor of Magical Theory; an empty spot for Mrs. Lucile Dirkan, professor of Muggle Studies who would soon take her place; Mr. Lester Yoni, professor of Natural World Studies; Mrs. Romana Merce, professor of Restoration and also the school's nurse; Mr. Vincent Black, professor of Curses; and finally Mr. Nicholas Nickleby, professor of World Beyond Studies, and also a ghost. At the center sat the regal and venerable Headmaster, flanked by the Assistant Headmaster and the Heads of Houses. Generally, the Professor Merce, the nurse, and Professor Nickleby, a ghost, did not sit at the table, but the first day was always a special occasion.

However, it was what was in front of them that drew the most attention. A large and ancient looking grandfather clock, some ten feet tall, stood before the students. Its face had only four symbols, the crests of the four houses where the numbers 12, 3, 6, and 9, would normally be. And there were three hands of equal length and appearance. The glance door on the front swung open, revealing a small compartment where a person could stand, and seemed to beckon each student forward.

Once inside, the Sorting Clock would determine the best house for each student. The three hands would spin wildly as it sought the correct answer, before stopping on a dime at their final positions. They would generally all point in relatively the same direction, a few degrees of here and there, indicating the house it had chosen. The closer all three appeared to the chosen house, the more fitting it seemed to be.

Headmaster Alexander Sagieux Barbelanc stood briefly to greet the students. "Welcome to your first year at school, and perhaps a greatly new life for some. I am Professor Barbelanc," he said calmly, accenting his name properly. "If you will one at a time step into the Sorting Clock so we may begin in earnest..."

--------

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."


[OOC: Alright, because your students are of different ages and thus the sorting would have taken place in the past for some, consider this a private scene for the characters of each year. That is to say that someone RPing a student who will be a 3rd Year in our RP won't be in the scene when the people going to be 5th Years in our RP are being sorted. The answers to these questions will determine what house you are in, so I would suggest thinking about them a bit and about what the answer for the house you may want to be in is. Please don't just answer yes or no, explain your character's thoughts. If you have any questions, please post them in the Main OOC (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=537142) thread.]

Reserved

Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?" Draco, My whole Family has been in Draco

"What house do you want to be in...?" Of Course, Draco

"What is it that people seek in life...?" Power, Power Provides influence

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?" Uh, I don't really know....

"Is all blood the same color of red...?" No, Some will always be better than others

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" Flight is for the Weak & the Cowardly. Unless it safes your neck.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" No, Some will be left behind

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" I guess So

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" Love, It is a waste of everybody's time, Power on the Other hand....

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face? Weakness is Amusing

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." Death is Weakness, Live is Power, False

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts." False

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." True

Marius had to be almost forced into the Sorting Clock for he had a tendency to take issue with inclosed spaces such as the space wherein the pendulum of a grandfather clock normally swung. It was with a scowl on his face that he stepped into the clock and had the door shut on him.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows which, had it had anything resembling shins would have gotten them kicked by the irrate youth.
"What house do you believe best for you...?" I" believe I could do well in any of the houses."
"What house do you want to be in...?" "They are all the same, more or less, but I like the colours of Broc and Titanius and the animal of Draco, but can't stand the yellow of Emantricos, so not that one."
"What is it that people seek in life...?" "People seek fufillment, by and large anyways. That which fufills thier dreams, schemes, desires and wants thought few can find what they actually desire rather than what they think they want."
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?" "The one at the end of the tunnel naturally, of course it is often just a train."
"Is all blood the same color of red...?" "If it wasn't the same colour than it wouldn't be blood or at least not healthy blood."
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" "Not true, unless you believe that the knowledge of when to attack from the rear instead of battering your head against a wall cowardly."
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" "Most boats, some that have holes in them will sink in a rising tide, and submarines are suppose to sink anyways."
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" "What? At least your other questions made a bit of sense so stop talking gibberish."
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" "That one's easy, the answer is time. What is there more of the more you take away?"
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?" "Do you mean a mirror? Vain people are often amused by looking in a mirror, my sister certainly is."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." "False, death is the way out of those who don't have the strength to overcome thier situation."
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts." "True, of couse many where crackpots who's enlightenment was only a lie or pipe-dream."
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." "False, with the right medium intelligence can be conveyed to the masses and in the hands of the masses, a little intelligence can be a devestating force."

When the clock stopped asking questions, Marius lined up a solid kick to the door, but the fact that it opened just before he swung stopped him as he stepped out.

Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?" Draco, My whole Family has been in Draco

"What house do you want to be in...?" Of Course, Draco

"What is it that people seek in life...?" Power, Power Provides influence

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?" Uh, I don't really know....

"Is all blood the same color of red...?" No, Some will always be better than others

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" Flight is for the Weak & the Cowardly. Unless it safes your neck.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" No, Some will be left behind

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" I guess So

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" Love, It is a waste of everybody's time, Power on the Other hand....

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face? Weakness is Amusing

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." Death is Weakness, Live is Power, False

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts." False

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." True

It did not take long for the sorting clock to arrive at its answer. As the last of the answers was given by the boy inside, the hands spun for but a minute second before coming to a stop at their final positions. One hand shot straight up at the Dragon symbol of the Draco House; another hand was directed just slightly to the left; and the final hand was just slightly more to the right.

"An easy one indeed, as it was for your father before you. A Reamus through and through," the clock said so that its voice was only heard inwards by Al. "But remember these words: you are not as smart as you think." With the words hanging in the air inside the compartment, it roared loudly: "Draco!" The clock bellowed, which was met with cheers by the House table.

The glass door swung open and seemed to push the young student out as the next climbed in...

OOC:Assuming Im accepted of course...

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Derrick thought, The house of Emantricos because it values are similar to mine. I value honour and hard work no matter how menial the task itself is.

"What house do you want to be in...?"
Emantrico, Derrick thought simply. His previous thoughts reinforced his position.

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Derrick sat and thought about the answer to this question, it was indeed a complex issue. This depends on the person, he began some desire riches and fame while others simply are happy to have meals to eat each night.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Derrick smiled internally his answer was simple. It depends which point of view one is looking from, one persons eternal darkness in someone elses eternal light.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Derrick had seen only 3 diffrent people bleed in his lifetime, himself, Samantha, and his little sister. In the case of his sibling she was from the rear end of hell and ended up in his life, her blood mattered not, to him, yes all blood is the same color of red.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Derrick had often thought of this very matter. On one hand he had the answer yes, applied to such people as those of ancient Sparta or the idiodic ideals of Hitler. It is true that all of his rolemodels, General Guderian, Rommel, The Great Khan, and Von Moltke (Elder) had at one time or another ran, he didnt consider these people cowardly and answered. No.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Derrick was shocked by the implied simplicity of this question. He knew the plain answer was yes, then he thought what if a boat is sunk? and said NO.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
Derrick had no true idea what the real answer was, but due to his quick wit he simply answered, No.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Derrick had his personal feelings on this matter. It depends on what one is trying to find, material treasures can be found and lost endless times, but immaterial treasures such as a first love can never be regained no matter how hard searched for.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Derrick burst out laughing at this question it was abosolutly a perfect question for this answer. "Samantha Conners"

"True or false..."
Neither Derrick thought to himself. It sounded absolutly idiodic, but it is a rare situation where black and white were clearly defined.

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Derrick grew more serious with this question. He pondered for several seconds before giving his answer. Life with humiliation is better, it simply depends on how this humiliation is gained.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
This is true. Derrick answered simply.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Derrick was initially inclined not to agree, then he thought back. People as a whole were totally stupid, he agreed with the statement with this answer.

Marius had to be almost forced into the Sorting Clock for he had a tendency to take issue with inclosed spaces such as the space wherein the pendulum of a grandfather clock normally swung. It was with a scowl on his face that he stepped into the clock and had the door shut on him.

...

When the clock stopped asking questions, Marius lined up a solid kick to the door, but the fact that it opened just before he swung stopped him as he stepped out.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows which, had it had anything resembling shins would have gotten them kicked by the irrate youth.

With each response by the somewhat belligerent child, the clock bellowed in a deep, slow voice a little comment.

"I believe I could do well in any of the houses."

"Nearly anyone can do well in any house. The question was best..."

"They are all the same, more or less, but I like the colours of Broc and Titanius and the animal of Draco, but can't stand the yellow of Emantricos, so not that one."

"So shallow... your house, whether one likes it or not, will shape and form you into the person you will one day become."

"People seek fufillment, by and large anyways. That which fufills thier dreams, schemes, desires and wants thought few can find what they actually desire rather than what they think they want.

"The one at the end of the tunnel naturally, of course it is often just a train.

"If it wasn't the same colour than it wouldn't be blood or at least not healthy blood.

"Not true, unless you believe that the knowledge of when to attack from the rear instead of battering your head against a wall cowardly."

"A smart answer... a good answer... an interesting answer... a tactical answer." The clock hands slowed slightly with each response.

"Most boats, some that have holes in them will sink in a rising tide, and submarines are suppose to sink anyways."

"Boats with holes will sink in any and no tide at all..."

"What? At least your other questions made a bit of sense so stop talking gibberish."

"Patience is as important as intelligence..."

"That one's easy, the answer is time. What is there more of the more you take away?"

"The correct answer," it said softly as the hands slowed again. "Perhaps you would know the answer to the same question, but with searching would only find more."

"Do you mean a mirror? Vain people are often amused by looking in a mirror, my sister certainly is."

"A mirror... is your sister dangerous?"

"False, death is the way out of those who don't have the strength to overcome thier situation."

"Is it always...?"

"True, of couse many where crackpots who's enlightenment was only a lie or pipe-dream."

"Is it possible for enlightenment to be either?"

"False, with the right medium intelligence can be conveyed to the masses and in the hands of the masses, a little intelligence can be a devestating force."

"Enlightened indeed..." Slowly the hands came to a stop. "However, you are right in that you could do well in all houses..."

The hands finally inched to their final positions. One shot upwards and slightly to the right near Draco; another shot downwards and slightly to the right around Titanus; but the third that would indicate the house in this situation, pointed to the Roc. "House of Broc!" the Clock bellowed and the table of according colors erupted into cheers.

When the small boy stepped from the chamber of the Sorting Clock, the ancient and mysterious magic that surrounded the school and clock branded his cloak with the crest of Broc.

Summer...time for children across the world for relaxation and memories. Natalie Chambers was hardly an ordinary child by this point, but four years ago she had been little more than one. Lying on her bed at 1AM, sleep not coming easily, Natalie stared up at her cieling, thinking about the event four years before, when she should have been entering the sixth grade...but instead found herself walking up the aisle of a school in a different country, with people and surroundings so unfamiliar it had nearly shocked her out of her wits.

~~~~~

The cieling was high on the hall as hundreds of eyes bored down on her position, making Natalie squeamish. The other first-years seemed figidty as well, though she knew none of them. The year before, she had been simply an average American fifth-grader in San Diego, California, playing basketball with her friends and playing off Brian Simmons, the blonde-haired boy who had the crush on her, though he denied it. It was a good life, living under the sun, with a father who played middle linebacker for the San Diego Chargers and a mother who taught at San Diego State University. Aztec games, despite the frequent losses to MWC powerhouses TCU and BYU, were always something Natalie didn't mind attending, and she relished in watching her father play in AFC West competition on fall Sundays.

But fate had turned that life upside down. A single letter, written in antique script on faded, seemingly-ancient paper, had perplexed her before she had even opened it. The insides were even stranger. A hand-written message had told her that she was invited to...the Exeter School of Magic, in England. To a girl who lived closer to Tijuana, Mexico, than Europe, that seemed a half a planet-and nearly was-away. However, her father, never one to complain about invitations (especially being the stud prep player he had been in high school), pushed Natalie to accept what fate had in store for her.

The clock beckoned, and with her name being early in the alphabet, she was one of the earlier ones up. She threw thought to the wind, stepping up without hesitation to the clock. As soon as it closed in, the questions began coming quickly.

-"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Natalie almost laughed. Like she even knew what the clock was talking about. "Whatever house I get in, I'll come out stronger," she replied, hoping the response was good.

-"What house do you want to be in...?"
Once again, a question she knew little about. The houses...everything...it was new. "I want to be in the house that suits me the best," she said. Quickly, as if comically, she added, "but I do like the color blue."

-"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"Freedom," she said instinctively. That was one quality she'd had her whole life in America, particularly California. It was the one thing that allowed her to live her life the way she wanted.

-"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Natalie was somewhat religious, as her father was a devout Presbyterian. This question seemed to lie along those lines, so she replied with her thoughts: "No matter the darkness, there's always the light in your soul to guide you through the road before you."

-"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
This was a bit of a perplexing question to Natalie, but she responded the best she could: "The color is in the eye of the bleeding. Only he-or she-can determine it."

-"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Natalie didn't like this question much, as she was a fighter...naturally, then, she disliked running away: "I would say that's true. If you've come to fight, then you should finish what was started."

-"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"Only those with the courage and faith to be lifted," Natalie said, her convinction rising.

-"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"The truly ill only take answers they want to hear," Natalie said, not really understanding the question. "Those who are strong are not truly ill, but only seen so."

-"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Humanity," Natalie replied, "for once we lose who we are, it can never be regained."

-"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?"
This one perplexed Nat. Symbol of dangerous amusement? She replied anyhow: "Passion. If you can't control it, it'll consume you...but if you embrace it with strength, it's the best gift."

"True or false..."

-"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"Definately true," Natalie said firmly, "it keeps your moral strength and seals your courage."

-"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"True," Nat replied again, "since society frequently misinterprets progress." She spoke just like a Californian on that question.

-"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"False," Nat veered, "anyone can rise above their surroundings to become a better person, higher on the ladder, and stronger than they arrived."

~~~~~

Sleep began to finally consume Natalie on her bed in San Diego, a distant life from the one she lived in England. Here, posters of Bo Jackson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar-her tastes were definately in sports, she was less of a "girly" girl-adorned her walls, rather than the moving pictures on the magic books that were under her bed.

OOC:Assuming Im accepted of course...

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Derrick thought, The house of Emantricos because it values are similar to mine. I value honour and hard work no matter how menial the task itself is.

"What house do you want to be in...?"
Emantrico, Derrick thought simply. His previous thoughts reinforced his position.

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Derrick sat and thought about the answer to this question, it was indeed a complex issue. This depends on the person, he began some desire riches and fame while others simply are happy to have meals to eat each night.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Derrick smiled internally his answer was simple. It depends which point of view one is looking from, one persons eternal darkness in someone elses eternal light.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Derrick had seen only 3 diffrent people bleed in his lifetime, himself, Samantha, and his little sister. In the case of his sibling she was from the rear end of hell and ended up in his life, her blood mattered not, to him, yes all blood is the same color of red.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Derrick had often thought of this very matter. On one hand he had the answer yes, applied to such people as those of ancient Sparta or the idiodic ideals of Hitler. It is true that all of his rolemodels, General Guderian, Rommel, The Great Khan, and Von Moltke (Elder) had at one time or another ran, he didnt consider these people cowardly and answered. No.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Derrick was shocked by the implied simplicity of this question. He knew the plain answer was yes, then he thought what if a boat is sunk? and said NO.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
Derrick had no true idea what the real answer was, but due to his quick wit he simply answered, No.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Derrick had his personal feelings on this matter. It depends on what one is trying to find, material treasures can be found and lost endless times, but immaterial treasures such as a first love can never be regained no matter how hard searched for.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Derrick burst out laughing at this question it was abosolutly a perfect question for this answer. "Samantha Conners"

"True or false..."
Neither Derrick thought to himself. It sounded absolutly idiodic, but it is a rare situation where black and white were clearly defined.

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Derrick grew more serious with this question. He pondered for several seconds before giving his answer. Life with humiliation is better, it simply depends on how this humiliation is gained.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
This is true. Derrick answered simply.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Derrick was initially inclined not to agree, then he thought back. People as a whole were totally stupid, he agreed with the statement with this answer.

A silence followed as the last answer left Derrick's mouth. The hands of the Clock continued to spin wildly, changing direction and speed, and continuing onward as it thought silently.

"Quite the mixture of ingredients in your cauldron, aren't there?" It said slowly as the hands began to slow down. "Smart, contemplative, hedging in some matters, staunch in others..."

"Though you have answered some of the questions wrong," it continued in a contemplatively slowly voice, "you are indeed smart enough to know which house if best for you." With that, the door burst open and the hands came to their final stop. Though not entirely decisive in their decision, the hands had a clear choice. "Emantrico!" it roared, the anticipation of the students breaking to meet it in a roar of applause - those adorning Golden yellow most of all.

[OOC: Already accepted you in the main OOC thread. It appears on the question about "What is lost that..." you misunderstood the question; though not a big deal really. The word "that" indicates that their is a specific answer rather than the question being a true or false / yes or no type of question. No matter.]

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Samantha already knew she would dislike this clock, perhaps she would vandalize it somehow in the future. Emantricos, I may be fun loving, but I always keep my promises and am loyal to those that deserve it.

"What house do you want to be in...?"
The Answer to Sam was simple. Emantricos, Derrick is in it.

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
It all depends on what the person values, some want money, others want spiritual fullfillment.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Samantha had once been called the Eternal Darkness it made her smile at this question. "The fact that those that you love and love you are always there to stand beside you."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Of course it is, blood is blood, genetically xpeaking only monor diffrences unnoticable to the naked eye might exist.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
False, Samantha thought. If everyone that could fly was cowardly then Quidditch wouldnt bear near as fun...

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
What about those that are already out of the water? She asked the clock back.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
Samantha was always considered smart, but not this smart, she answered yes.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Love. To her if you lose love you can never find it again on the same emotionally high level.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Samantha heard this and knew what Derricks answer would be, her, but to her the most amusing thing ever that was also slighlty dangerous was the prospect of making ppl do things for her.

"True or false..."

True or false what? She asked back.

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
It depends on how someone recieved this humiliation.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Well, those that truely enlightened the world invesnted the lamp to put insid ethe post itself.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Very true, people are lemmings, idiotic and untamed.

Summer...time for children across the world for relaxation and memories. Natalie Chambers was hardly an ordinary child by this point, but four years ago she had been little more than one. Lying on her bed at 1AM, sleep not coming easily, Natalie stared up at her cieling, thinking about the event four years before, when she should have been entering the sixth grade...but instead found herself walking up the aisle of a school in a different country, with people and surroundings so unfamiliar it had nearly shocked her out of her wits.

~~~~~

The cieling was high on the hall as hundreds of eyes bored down on her position, making Natalie squeamish. The other first-years seemed figidty as well, though she knew none of them. The year before, she had been simply an average American fifth-grader in San Diego, California, playing basketball with her friends and playing off Brian Simmons, the blonde-haired boy who had the crush on her, though he denied it. It was a good life, living under the sun, with a father who played middle linebacker for the San Diego Chargers and a mother who taught at San Diego State University. Aztec games, despite the frequent losses to MWC powerhouses TCU and BYU, were always something Natalie didn't mind attending, and she relished in watching her father play in AFC West competition on fall Sundays.

But fate had turned that life upside down. A single letter, written in antique script on faded, seemingly-ancient paper, had perplexed her before she had even opened it. The insides were even stranger. A hand-written message had told her that she was invited to...the Exeter School of Magic, in England. To a girl who lived closer to Tijuana, Mexico, than Europe, that seemed a half a planet-and nearly was-away. However, her father, never one to complain about invitations (especially being the stud prep player he had been in high school), pushed Natalie to accept what fate had in store for her.

The clock beckoned, and with her name being early in the alphabet, she was one of the earlier ones up. She threw thought to the wind, stepping up without hesitation to the clock. As soon as it closed in, the questions began coming quickly.

~~~~~

Sleep began to finally consume Natalie on her bed in San Diego, a distant life from the one she lived in England. Here, posters of Bo Jackson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar-her tastes were definately in sports, she was less of a "girly" girl-adorned her walls, rather than the moving pictures on the magic books that were under her bed.


Though the questions were rapid and seemingly unending, the voice that spoke them was deep, solid, and slow. A reassuring and wise voice of some unknown magic that inhabited the large grandfather clock. In fact, one might say that it was the true embodiment of its name. A caring grandfather, with a reassuring old voice, and wisdom of the ages...

Natalie almost laughed. Like she even knew what the clock was talking about. "Whatever house I get in, I'll come out stronger," she replied, hoping the response was good.

Once again, a question she knew little about. The houses...everything...it was new. "I want to be in the house that suits me the best," she said. Quickly, as if comically, she added, "but I do like the color blue."

"Interesting," the voice echoed through the closed chamber as if it already knew something.

"Freedom," she said instinctively. That was one quality she'd had her whole life in America, particularly California. It was the one thing that allowed her to live her life the way she wanted.

"Indeed they generally do," it confirmed. "But while some seek the freedom from bondage or the freedom from fear, others seek the freedom of servitude and the freedom for murder..."

Natalie was somewhat religious, as her father was a devout Presbyterian. This question seemed to lie along those lines, so she replied with her thoughts: "No matter the darkness, there's always the light in your soul to guide you through the road before you."

"The soul... what a marvelous and delightful essence," the clock said almost gleefully. "I wonder if you will eventually enroll in Studies of the World Beyond."

This was a bit of a perplexing question to Natalie, but she responded the best she could: "The color is in the eye of the bleeding. Only he-or she-can determine it."

"So all that matters to one's identity, is what one believes it to be... Interesting, but good or bad?"

Natalie didn't like this question much, as she was a fighter...naturally, then, she disliked running away: "I would say that's true. If you've come to fight, then you should finish what was started."

"And who said you have come to fight? Perhaps the fight came to you..."

"Only those with the courage and faith to be lifted," Natalie said, her convinction rising.

"A most noble answer... But is it not those who are without courage and faith that sometimes need the most help in being lifted?"

"The truly ill only take answers they want to hear," Natalie said, not really understanding the question. "Those who are strong are not truly ill, but only seen so."

"Though many would agree in this world," the Clock said in reference to a large segment of the wizarding population, "many others would say that it is exactly those who are strong that are truly ill."

"Humanity," Natalie replied, "for once we lose who we are, it can never be regained."

"A sheep that wanders is surely dead...?"

This one perplexed Nat. Symbol of dangerous amusement? She replied anyhow: "Passion. If you can't control it, it'll consume you...but if you embrace it with strength, it's the best gift."

"Interesting choice. But passion may grow rapidly in the hands of strength; even faster than strength can grow to contain it..."

"Definately true," Natalie said firmly, "it keeps your moral strength and seals your courage."

"True," Nat replied again, "since society frequently misinterprets progress." She spoke just like a Californian on that question.

I simple, "Mmm hmmm," lingered in the air.

"False," Nat veered, "anyone can rise above their surroundings to become a better person, higher on the ladder, and stronger than they arrived."

"But is it not the ambition and time that allows one to rise? And once one rises is he still part of the masses?" The Clock countered.

The responses the clock bellowed out after each answer were generally not ones to be answered - though no doubt the Clock would listen as other than the Sorting it was quite lonely during the year - but rather to be thought about and contemplated in due time.

"No Draco do we have here," it whispered through the chamber as the girl stood patiently for its final response. "Strong and brave, certainly, though perhaps a little naive also..."

The decision was an easy one for the Clock. On the face, the hands immediately came to a stop in the eastward direction. "Broc!" It cried out as the door swung open to release the new student to the table of cheering Rocs with emblems of their House adorning their backs.

Marius deliberately, thought discreetly, scuffed his shoe against the lip of the clock. Had he further opportunity he'd have likely done somewhat worse but in full view he didn't bother.

However as he got to the few steps that lead from the platform to the level with the tables he jumped down instead of stepping down. Taking a seat along the bench, he looked up and wondered how much longer the ceremony would take. He wasn't that fond of waiting and when there was suppose to be food involved he really didn't like waiting, especially if there were meat involved.

The congratulations were all well and good but not very filling for a kid with the proverbial hollow leg, thought he did give a somewhat wolfishy grin at a couple of the girls in the vicinity, his table and the ones around it. Except for his sister, who had a tendency to get all huffy and tried to smack him when he said her hair was a mess, he generally got on well with the females of the world. He'd even gotten his first kiss, from a non-family member and on the lips, from a fifteen year old at the age of ten for being such a 'cutie'.

Samantha already knew she would dislike this clock, perhaps she would vandalize it somehow in the future. Emantricos, I may be fun loving, but I always keep my promises and am loyal to those that deserve it.

The Answer to Sam was simple. Emantricos, Derrick is in it.

"Loyal indeed..." the clock echoed as her second answer backed up her first.

It all depends on what the person values, some want money, others want spiritual fullfillment.

"People are quite different - extremes as you have presented - but people nonetheless... individuals and a grouping."

Samantha had once been called the Eternal Darkness it made her smile at this question. "The fact that those that you love and love you are always there to stand beside you."

"Even when they are gone..." It wasn't a question.

Of course it is, blood is blood, genetically xpeaking only monor diffrences unnoticable to the naked eye might exist.

"But what about those noticeable to the magical eye...?"

False, Samantha thought. If everyone that could fly was cowardly then Quidditch wouldnt bear near as fun...

If the Clock could smile and wink, it would most definitely have to Samantha at this moment. There was always one who chose this answer, and it simply delighted the Sorting Clock. "You, I think I like..."

What about those that are already out of the water? She asked the clock back.

"I believe you know the answer then if this is the question you ask..."

Samantha was always considered smart, but not this smart, she answered yes.

"I await one who does not guess, but then sometimes even in guessing we make the right decision..."

Love. To her if you lose love you can never find it again on the same emotionally high level.

"How sentimental and touching..." The clock seemed to be touching on all of the emotions from stern to delighted to sad as if tears rolled down its face.

Samantha heard this and knew what Derricks answer would be, her, but to her the most amusing thing ever that was also slighlty dangerous was the prospect of making ppl do things for her.

"Power... is that what you desire?"

True or false what? She asked back.

It depends on how someone recieved this humiliation.

"Does not the humiliation itself matter at least the same as the manner of its presentation?"

Well, those that truely enlightened the world invesnted the lamp to put insid ethe post itself.

"Unfortunately, Professor Edison also had to pass on like the dying light..."

Very true, people are lemmings, idiotic and untamed.

"And that is why you can control them..." A question? A statement?

The questions ended, as did the answers and responses. However, the clock hands spun furiously as the Clock continued to speak. "I see what is in your heart. Draco could lead you there; a mighty witch it would make out of you..."

"But loyal, too, you profess to be... so perhaps Emantrico awaits your grace," it said quicker than normal as the hands continued to spin as rapidly as ever.

"Strong and brave, never turning down a fight you would be," it added with a little more passion. "A fine Broc you would make with the mighty emblem upon your back."

"Oh, but you are clever and smart too... I think a Titan for you..."

"The question remains what would happen when loyalty buts heads with your other passions, thoughts, ideals, beliefs... desires. Perhaps you have already made the decision and do not know it. Perhaps I do...?

"You see the roaring mighty Manticore in your future... your hopes. But I see a Dragon's egg hatching... a struggle will define you." The words lingered in the air for several moments - an eternity - as the hands slowed to a stop in a skewed mix of directions, pointing with no definitiveness. However, there was no mistaking the voice as it roared out over the waiting crowd. Rarely had a sorting taken so long, especially after the answers had been given.

"TITANUS!" The voice echoed through the great hall. The crowd, mostly of the same House, cheered for its new member. However, the door did not open immediately. Instead, the voice that had echoed for several millennial minutes spoke once more to the young girl. "Your future is not yet set in stone... I see great potential in you. Do not disappoint me..." And then it swung open...

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
That was an easy one, it was the same one as his Father.
"I belive that Titanus would be the best for me"

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"Which ever Accepts me for what I am"

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Hmmm that was a tougher one, then he remember his muggle friends calling him a freak and how lonely he felt after learning he was a wizard.
"I think most People search for Acceptance from those around them"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Odd question, I'm not spiritual at all so......
"Friendship is the Light in my darkness"

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"That was unexpected, hmmm, I think, literally all blood is red, but interms of Ideals
blood is the same color but all different shades."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Elendil rememered his parents talking about all the great wars of the world, most of them would not have been won if the winner never retreated to like his wounds
"To retreat is to win another day"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
The question made little sense to elendil but he tried his best to answer truthfully
"All have the potentail to rise or fall."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"It all depends"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Quite an intresting question hmmmmm.
"No in searching for something you may find something more useful."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
That's an easy one Elendil thought to himself
"Battling for what is right."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Men who Died in battle where honored, but some men who retreated where disgraced if they lost further so I say...
"true"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Many men and women, have been enlightened, and have done well.
"False"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Elendil was confused, so he kind of guessed in what he thought would be right.
"Both"

Elendil sighed, and sat back to await
judgement.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Broc

"What house do you want to be in...?"
Broc

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Their fufillment in their personal goals, be it Freedom or Power and Wealth

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Garreth simply said one word,Hope.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
I don't really care about if your pure-blooded or Mud-Blooded. I treat everyone equally, so to that question, yes.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Not really, if your asked to fight a losing battle, it is best to run and fight another day.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
No, saliors who have prepared for the tide would have anchored their ship and would not be swept away. Those who have not prepared for the tide however, will be.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
Um, to me the sick take answers to how they can be healed., Garreth said, rather bewildered by the true meaning of this question.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Trust, losing it will result in a very hard time gaining it back.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Addicition to anything basically, yes it may be amusing to me at first, but it could lead me to dangers or hazards later on without me knowing it.

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
True, there is no point of living when the world seems to go down on you.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
False.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
False, thats too strong of a comment to be made True. Power should only be given to those who are willing to put it in good use. I don't suppose intelligence can be lost on the masses.

OCC: DMG Could you get on MSN?

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
That was an easy one, it was the same one as his Father.
"I belive that Titanus would be the best for me"

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"Which ever Accepts me for what I am"

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Hmmm that was a tougher one, then he remember his muggle friends calling him a freak and how lonely he felt after learning he was a wizard.
"I think most People search for Acceptance from those around them"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Odd question, I'm not spiritual at all so......
"Friendship is the Light in my darkness"

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"That was unexpected, hmmm, I think, literally all blood is red, but interms of Ideals
blood is the same color but all different shades."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Elendil rememered his parents talking about all the great wars of the world, most of them would not have been won if the winner never retreated to like his wounds
"To retreat is to win another day"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
The question made little sense to elendil but he tried his best to answer truthfully
"All have the potentail to rise or fall."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"It all depends"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Quite an intresting question hmmmmm.
"No in searching for something you may find something more useful."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
That's an easy one Elendil thought to himself
"Battling for what is right."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Men who Died in battle where honored, but some men who retreated where disgraced if they lost further so I say...
"true"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Many men and women, have been enlightened, and have done well.
"False"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Elendil was confused, so he kind of guessed in what he thought would be right.
"Both"

Elendil sighed, and sat back to await
judgement.

The Sorting Clock seemed to creek and sigh as the answers finished. There were always those that did not understand the questions, and there were always those who had neither the wit nor the intelligence to answer correctly.

"No..." It began slowly, almost if responding to all of his answers, but continuing, "Titanus would not be the House for you."

"Unfortunately, deciding which house is just as hard as you have shown no strong inclination towards any... just the opposite. However, you have expressed your desires for loyalty and your answers are in part of the noble sense," it added as it seemed to be making its decision.

The clock hands came to a stop, facing all sorts of direction, but mostly pointing at no house in general. The glass door slowly slid open and said in less than strong voice, "Emantrico..."

"What house do you believe best for you...?" Draco.

"What house do you want to be in...?" Why do you ask the same question? Draco!

"What is it that people seek in life...?" Power. All thing seek power.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?" There is no light, only the brighter darkness.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?" No. Some people's blood is better.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" Yes. True warriors stay to fight.

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" No. Some boats float earlier and better.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" Yes, I suppose.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" No. Everything can be found under correct Inquisition.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?" Weakness is rather amusing, provided it is an enemy.

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." Yes. No-one should live in humiliation.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts." Yes. The knowledgeable are often killed.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." Yes. The common people would noy use power correctly."

Broc

Broc

"Strong, brave Broc..."

Their fufillment in their personal goals, be it Freedom or Power and Wealth

"Indeed..."

Garreth simply said one word,Hope.

"Aha!" The Sorting Clock said happily. "You have touched on the quintessential human light... the power of hope! Never forget this..."

I don't really care about if your pure-blooded or Mud-Blooded. I treat everyone equally, so to that question, yes.

"And what of those born without magic?" the Clock asked, though knowing what his answer would be.

Not really, if your asked to fight a losing battle, it is best to run and fight another day.

"Indeed. At some point we must all decide fight or flight..."

No, saliors who have prepared for the tide would have anchored their ship and would not be swept away. Those who have not prepared for the tide however, will be.

"Even boats anchored to sea floor will rise with the ascending waters..."

Um, to me the sick take answers to how they can be healed., Garreth said, rather bewildered by the true meaning of this question.

"Do not slip... dig deeper..."

Trust, losing it will result in a very hard time gaining it back.

"Forever? Hard as it may be, trust can be regained..."

Addicition to anything basically, yes it may be amusing to me at first, but it could lead me to dangers or hazards later on without me knowing it.

"A must unusual answer... but interestingly, it may indeed be the basis of many other possible responses..."

True, there is no point of living when the world seems to go down on you.

"There is always something to live for..."

False.

"All that exists is the best?"

False, thats too strong of a comment to be made True. Power should only be given to those who are willing to put it in good use. I don't suppose intelligence can be lost on the masses.

"You don't suppose...?"

The student had begun strong; had issued the correct answer to a question that none else had done that yet. "However, noble do your answers lay... Loyal to what is true..."

"I think Gold is best for you... young EMANTRICO!" The crowd cheered as the golden adornment covered the new student's robes.

"What house do you believe best for you...?" Draco.

"What house do you want to be in...?" Why do you ask the same question? Draco!

"What is it that people seek in life...?" Power. All thing seek power.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?" There is no light, only the brighter darkness.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?" No. Some people's blood is better.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" Yes. True warriors

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" No. Some boats float earlier and better.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" Yes, I suppose.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" No. Everything can be found under correct Inquisition.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?" Weakness is rather amusing, provided it is an enemy.

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." Yes. No-one should live in humiliation.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts." Yes. The knowledgeable are often killed.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." Yes. The common people would noy use power correctly."

The Clock seemed to laugh darkly. "How ironic that in your quest for the answers that would serve a Draco best, you have also unhinged many of your people's own arguments. Funny that you should say weakness is dangerous, though you did not mean to or at least not in the same way... for what you see as weakness is truly dangerous to your ideals."

"I need not keep him longer!" The Clock bellowed through the hall. "It is DRACO to him!" The green members of Draco House cheered wildly as the others seemed to sit sullen. The door opened and spat him out...

Alex walked over slowly and stood in front of the clock

What house do you believe best for you...?"
I would like to think Titanus, but I'd be equally as happy in Broc as well
"What house do you want to be in...?"
Titanus, after my Father and Mother, but I don't really mind
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
I wish it were Peace and Unity, but it appears in reality to be power and wealth.
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Hope and Courage, the cornerstones of mankind
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
All are born equal, only their actions set them apart
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Flight is for those who will accept the consequences of leaving some behind
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Correct
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"Some of the braver and more heroic will stick to their convictions through any 'illness' I'd hope to be amongst them"
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"I believe that nothing is truly lost so long as you remain loyal to it"
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Pain can be a very amusing tool if used in the right hands"
"True or false..."
True I guess
"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
If it is indeed your time to go then death with dignity is better, but humiliation can be lived with if there is something else worth living for
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
They died for their convictions and doubtless they would do it again.
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Only those with the time and ambition will make such a statement of the masses, they are usually far more intelligent that the Intellectual give them credit for.

Alex walked over slowly and stood in front of the clock

What house do you believe best for you...?"
I would like to think Titanus, but I'd be equally as happy in Broc as well
"What house do you want to be in...?"
Titanus, after my Father and Mother, but I don't really mind
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
I wish it were Peace and Unity, but it appears in reality to be power and wealth.
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Hope and Courage, the cornerstones of mankind
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
All are born equal, only their actions set them apart
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
Flight is for those who will accept the consequences of leaving some behind
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Correct
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"Some of the braver and more heroic will stick to their convictions through any 'illness' I'd hope to be amongst them"
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"I believe that nothing is truly lost so long as you remain loyal to it"
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Pain can be a very amusing tool if used in the right hands"
"True or false..."
True I guess
"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
If it is indeed your time to go then death with dignity is better, but humiliation can be lived with if there is something else worth living for
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
They died for their convictions and doubtless they would do it again.
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Only those with the time and ambition will make such a statement of the masses, they are usually far more intelligent that the Intellectual give them credit for.

"Your answers are tried and true..." the Sorting Clock bellowed as the hands quickly came to a stop, pointing to where the six on a real clock would be.

"Like your mother and father before you, you are smart, wise, and, I think, strong. There is no doubt that you are a Titanus!"

It was one of the shortest and most pleasing sortings for the Clock, and when the door released the new student, his house cheered and roared happily...

"There are great things in your future Mr. Cavourna..."

A young man in a robe walked with dignity up to the sorting clock. As he stood the glaring at the clock with his piercing cat eyes, it began to speak.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
The boy spoke carefully, making sure all of his words were clear. "I have a belief that the house of Broc is for me."
"What house do you want to be in...?"
The boy gave grimace. "The House of Broc."
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
He smiled, though there was pain in his eyes. "An honorable death. Like my Russian brothers."
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
He sneered "Hope," He nearly spat out the word. "It is a waste of time though."
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
He rolled his eyes. "Yes, especial animal blood..." "...except for aliens." He muttered sarcastically under his breath.
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"Flight is for those who have something to love back home..." He said. "...or cowards." He smiled and shrugged
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
He grinned. "But the tidal wave flips it."
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?" He looked confused. "I fear i don't get it."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Besides my socks?" He said sarcastically.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

He gave a grin so wide it strained him. "A man trying to beat me at CQC (close quarter combat) or running.
"True or false..."


"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Yuri straightened up almost immediately. "As a Spartan mother told her child 'come home with this shield or on it'." He breathed in. "I live by that philosophy, so True."
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Yuri grew angry. "I saw many of my battle brothers killed by the damn KGB in Russia," He nearly yelled. "and many more tortured and hanged! So yes that is true!"
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." Yuri was still angry with this damned clock. "We knew how to fight, we just couldn't fight the power. So yes true again."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yuri sighed as he remembered that day when he was chosen. Wait... what class was he in again?

OOC: This took place in the past just so you know.

"Your answers are tried and true..." the Sorting Clock bellowed as the hands quickly came to a stop, pointing to where the six on a real clock would be.

"Like your mother and father before you, you are smart, wise, and, I think, strong. There is no doubt that you are a Titanus!"

It was one of the shortest and most pleasing sortings for the Clock, and when the door released the new student, his house cheered and roared happily...

"There are great things in your future Mr. Cavourna..."

Alex was delighted that he had been able to follow his parents into Titanus. he had sworn upon his Father's memory that he would follow his Father's footsteps into illustrious Titanus. He owed that much to him. He had answered truthfully and wondered how the Clock had come up with the questions as he walked towards the Titanus table for the first time...
---------------------------
Alex woke suddenly and found his self looking around, bemused. "Damn" he thought as he pulled the book he had been reading off his chest and set it on the table in front of him.
What a weird thing to dream about...

OOC: Sorting set in the past by the way

A young man in a robe walked with dignity up to the sorting clock. As he stood the glaring at the clock with his piercing cat eyes, it began to speak.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yuri sighed as he remembered that day when he was chosen. Wait... what class was he in again?

OOC: This took place in the past just so you know.

The boy spoke carefully, making sure all of his words were clear. "I have a belief that the house of Broc is for me."

The boy gave grimace. "The House of Broc."

"You think you are brave, is that...? That you don't fear death..."

He smiled, though there was pain in his eyes. "An honorable death. Like my Russian brothers."

"So the purpose of life is to die..."

He sneered "Hope," He nearly spat out the word. "It is a waste of time though."

"Oh, is it? You do not hope for anything... not your freedom, your family's love... your mother?"

He rolled his eyes. "Yes, especial animal blood..." "...except for aliens." He muttered sarcastically under his breath.

"Flight is for those who have something to love back home..." He said. "...or cowards." He smiled and shrugged.

"How ingenious of you..." it replied sarcastically.

He grinned. "But the tidal wave flips it."

"Flips them," the Clock corrected. "And that is an entirely different question. One I fear you know all too well and yet not at all..."

He looked confused. "I fear i don't get it."

"I fear you don't get a lot," the Clock sighed. "Perhaps you should try listening more and believing you already have the answer less."

"Besides my socks?" He said sarcastically.

He gave a grin so wide it strained him. "A man trying to beat me at CQC (close quarter combat) or running.

"Another pair of witty and clever answers from Master Kliener..."

Yuri straightened up almost immediately. "As a Spartan mother told her child 'come home with this shield or on it'." He breathed in. "I live by that philosophy, so True."

"And you know that they had slaves that they used and feared... that they believed themselves better than everyone else," the Clock responded in a strange echo. "Are these the people you would follow?"

Yuri grew angry. "I saw many of my battle brothers killed by the damn KGB in Russia," He nearly yelled. "and many more tortured and hanged! So yes that is true!"

Yuri was still angry with this damned clock. "We knew how to fight, we just couldn't fight the power. So yes true again."

"But why bother to hope......" The words hanged in the air.

"You believe you are worthy of the House of Broc... but I believe that you would do well in Draco..."


[OOC: Yep, it is for most people. Though how people write it (looking into the past or whatever) won't really matter as it won't have any bearing on the Main IC thread.]

The boy spoke carefully, making sure all of his words were clear. "I have a belief that the house of Broc is for me."

The boy gave grimace. "The House of Broc."

"You think you are brave, is that...? That you don't fear death..."

He smiled, though there was pain in his eyes. "An honorable death. Like my Russian brothers."

"So the purpose of life is to die..."

He sneered "Hope," He nearly spat out the word. "It is a waste of time though."

"Oh, is it? You do not hope for anything... not your freedom, your family's love... your mother?"

He rolled his eyes. "Yes, especial animal blood..." "...except for aliens." He muttered sarcastically under his breath.

"Flight is for those who have something to love back home..." He said. "...or cowards." He smiled and shrugged.

"How ingenious of you..." it replied sarcastically.

He grinned. "But the tidal wave flips it."

"Flips them," the Clock corrected. "And that is an entirely different question. One I fear you know all too well and yet not at all..."

He looked confused. "I fear i don't get it."

"I fear you don't get a lot," the Clock sighed. "Perhaps you should try listening more and believing you already have the answer less."

"Besides my socks?" He said sarcastically.

He gave a grin so wide it strained him. "A man trying to beat me at CQC (close quarter combat) or running.

"Another pair of witty and clever answers from Master Kliener..."

Yuri straightened up almost immediately. "As a Spartan mother told her child 'come home with this shield or on it'." He breathed in. "I live by that philosophy, so True."

"And you know that they had slaves that they used and feared... that they believed themselves better than everyone else," the Clock responded in a strange echo. "Are these the people you would follow?"

Yuri grew angry. "I saw many of my battle brothers killed by the damn KGB in Russia," He nearly yelled. "and many more tortured and hanged! So yes that is true!"

Yuri was still angry with this damned clock. "We knew how to fight, we just couldn't fight the power. So yes true again."

"But why bother to hope......" The words hanged in the air.

"You believe you are worthy of the House of Broc... but I believe that you would do well in Draco..."


[OOC: Yep, it is for most people. Though how people write it (looking into the past or whatever) won't really matter as it won't have any bearing on the Main IC thread.]

Yuri glared at the clock and spoke

"I am not a fascist fool like many of these Dracos. I have strict beliefs of freedom, though I don't hope for it. My mother is dead, that is a fact. My father will be either dead, dying, or captured. The likelihood that he even survived the raid on the village is less than 30% and its unlikely that he is even free!" He looked at the clock;. "I believe in equal opportunities for people. I cannot do that if I'm in Draco. I am not a pure blood, I was born mixed. I will be surrounded by enemies, no? I don't agree with the Spartans on many things that they did, but I have nothing to lose but my honor."

His eyes looked pleadingly up to the clock. "I may be a fool, but I fear not death. I fear that my life will be wasted. I have drunk a potion that turned me into... something. I cannot fear now. I am not human..."

He stood in silence. He spoke again. "Whatever house you put me in, I will still fight for those who need help."

Angela approached the large clock; she had barely time to unpack when she had been whisked away to the great hall for sorting; her parents had waned her about this; they had been through this them selves. 'Just answer honestly honey and you'll do just fine' had been the last words of her mother before she set off to Exeter Magical school. Still for a 12-year-old girl it was more than just a little bit intimidating all the eyes on you like a piece of meat. She fidgeted nervously having read every magic books she could get hold off in her mothers library she was still new to actually practising magic only coming into her powers 2 years ago. She climbed into the clock nervously

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows to her making Angela swallow hard; "What house do you believe best for you...?" The clock continued.

Angela considered this; she had been given the brief on all of the houses; she'd studied them in depth; there history; there power; "Anything but Draco" she finally replied; "Draco's are powerful, ambitions and intelligent but cruel, ruthless and arrogant. Tempted easily by the dark they believe themselves to be superior to everyone…that isn't me if I had to choose I'd say Titanus as it would temper me in fire and give me more control " Angela continued.

"What house do you want to be in?" The clock asked; Angela had to think for a moment; what house did she want to be in; she had given it very little thought in all fairness; every member of her family had graduated from Exeter school of magic but there was no one consistent house. "I think I'd like to be put in Broc; I'm curious and there's a certain level of mystery to it that intrigues me about Broc; and I believe in courage and loyalty" Angela spoke. She knew the clock would not be likely to put her there now since she had expressed a desire to go there still she had been honest and that was important to her.

"What is it that people seek in life...?" The Old Clock asked; its voice seemed fatherly; old beyond words; experience beyond knowledge it had seen many, many things Angela knew she would have much convocation with this clock over the years she would be here. "People seek a reason to exist, why are we here, what do we want, where are we going. We fill our lives with desires of a new car or that new house because it gives us a distraction from the big questions the questions that matter - why do we exist? Do we exist at all even or are we just a collection of memories and interactions? If no one remembered us; if we never interacted with anyone would we still exist? Are we immortal for as long as people remember us and carry that part of us with them?"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through?" the clock asked next. Angela knew the answer to this; something her mother had said to her from an early age - "In a world of eternal darkness the single candle drives back the night" Angela spoke. 'We stand on the bridge and yell none shall pass; we tread the places others fear to go, we hold the line against the night. protected are those that walk in the light, by those that walk in the shadows'

"Is all blood the same colour of red?", The Clock asked soon after and Angela smiled now confident in herself; "its all Red; we're all human; pure blood, mixed blood, non-magic were all in the same species no body is better than anyone else. And being a good or a bad person has nothing to do with who your blood line is; we all have choices; free will is paramount we can choose to be better than what we are, to try and be nobler than we know"

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" the Clock spoke again and with each question Angela found her feet more and smiled somehow hoping the clock could see her; "Not True. Being cowardly has nothing to do with running away; those that can fight should fight so those that can't don't have to; courage is not about acting without fear its about acting even when your afraid. Not everyone is capable of fighting and fighting a losing battle is not the same as fighting a meaningless one"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" the Clock asked next; "No; only boats that are strong enough to survive the tide rise above it. Smaller boats can crack and get smashed against the rocks; the bigger and stronger boats need to act as tethers; a life line for those too small to survive on there own"

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"; the clock asked and Angela answered right away. "Perhaps but I find health rarely has anything to do with convictions the terminally ill seek answers for some deeper meaning; maybe they haven't had a good life and seek some kind of redemption or atonement. Or maybe they've realised that if they had the chance to do it over again they would and this time appreciate the moments and judge themselves by what they are; not what they aren't"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" the clocked asked; Angela paused for a moment and thought about it; "Too many things; time, love, Humanity, Friendship sometimes. I'd say Hope but I believe we always have a choice where there's life there's hope"

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?" the Clock asked and Angela grinned; "Curiosity without control can be dangerous; Curiosity can lead to power that can escape your ability to hold it; after all it did kill the cat"

"True or false..." The clock began; "Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." It asked. Angela thought about it; "Better to die on your feet than live on your knees; but sometimes an humiliating defeat can make you stronger make you strive to be better so it doesn’t happen again"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."; the clock asked and Angela nodded. "I'd have to say true history is littered with incidents of persecution for defying convention; Aristotle, Gallialo, Columbus, Einstein; all of them ridiculed in there day; but its all down to perspective after all one mans enlightenment is another mans heresy"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." The clock asked its final question and Angela was grateful not because she hadn't enjoyed talking to the clock. She had in fact enjoyed that very much but she knew the clocked was talking everything she said mulling it over and judging her on it; she paused thinking about the final question. "Like I said; I think we all have the ability to choose; we only say we have no choice to comfort ourselves in a decision we've already made; if we understand that…then there is hope; if not…not so much. I think anyone can be better than what they think they are; but they have to choose to and no body can make that choice for them" Angela answered finally.

Yuri glared at the clock and spoke

"I am not a fascist fool like many of these Dracos. I have strict beliefs of freedom, though I don't hope for it. My mother is dead, that is a fact. My father will be either dead, dying, or captured. The likelihood that he even survived the raid on the village is less than 30% and its unlikely that he is even free!" He looked at the clock;. "I believe in equal opportunities for people. I cannot do that if I'm in Draco. I am not a pure blood, I was born mixed. I will be surrounded by enemies, no? I don't agree with the Spartans on many things that they did, but I have nothing to lose but my honor."

His eyes looked pleadingly up to the clock. "I may be a fool, but I fear not death. I fear that my life will be wasted. I have drunk a potion that turned me into... something. I cannot fear now. I am not human..."

He stood in silence. He spoke again. "Whatever house you put me in, I will still fight for those who need help."

"Such anger and passion... a fine Draco you would make," the Sorting Clock responded as Yuri became insistent and upset. The Clock was pushing him, and in response the boy was revealing his true feelings.

"You are strong and brave indeed..." it continued, "though where it will lead you, only time can tell." An ironic statement coming from a clock, but a true one nonetheless. This boy could do well in Draco or Broc, but his future was not yet laid out. "You have done well in accepting that while your House may shape you, you are still the form being shaped and that will not change."

"A Broc it is!"

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Emantrico, as I do not want to be in Draco as most of my family has been, I wish to stand out from the evil members of my family. I am of a noble heart, and I approve of all things that Emantrico stands for."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"Emantrico, I do not wish to be in Draco, Emantrico would be far better for me, because it seems as if the people there are people I care to associate with.. "

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"I believe that people seek true happiness, rather then fun, and to have a long, good life that then they can share their triumphs and sorrows to their descendants."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"Hope, Faith, Charity and Memory, In my view, those should be the four pillars of man."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"It might be all the same color, but in the manner of which it is spilled, and the light it is viewed through, may make it different shades of red to others, blood of kings are more revered then say a scribe, for the king is the leader, but the scribe would be special in one way, so his blood may in some cases be a more noble color then the king's..."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"False, you sometimes have to retreat in order as they saw "Live to fight another day", I would stand my ground, but if my position was inevitably going to be overrun, I would lose less men in retreat, then if I stood there and fought to the death..."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"It elevates certain men above others, and others fall under the above, I would say that a man would be smart to take advantage of a rising tide, I would have to say false.."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"That is true, sickness cannot stop the truly strong from answering a question, and an ill person will answer honesty, so I say I must agree.."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Despair, I should think, if you loose it, you will be hard pressed to find it, because you will be happy. And as you search for it, you will realize that you will not want to be in Dispair.."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"Curiosity and Mischeif together, will be a form of dangerous amusement, since it could lead to bad things that you will have dug a hole for yourself.."


"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

John nodded and said "It is far better to die what is right, then live under a cruel tyrant and being a coward by not standing up to him for your entire life.."


"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

John nodded and said "Think of how many explorers died attempting to enlighten, but only got ridiculed for their efforts, think some of the religon missionarys such as Paul, who tried to enlighten the Romans and got crucified!"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"That is certainly the case, I believe, it seems as though very few people have the wits to get through life, it seems as though the parents seem to have trouble applying their wisdom to their children, or even worse, they do, but the children do not listen.."

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Emantrico, as I do not want to be in Draco as most of my family has been, I wish to stand out from the evil members of my family. I am of a noble heart, and I approve of all things that Emantrico stands for."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"Emantrico, I do not wish to be in Draco, Emantrico would be far better for me, because it seems as if the people there are people I care to associate with.. "

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"I believe that people seek true happiness, rather then fun, and to have a long, good life that then they can share their triumphs and sorrows to their descendants."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"Hope, Faith, Charity and Memory, In my view, those should be the four pillars of man."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"It might be all the same color, but in the manner of which it is spilled, and the light it is viewed through, may make it different shades of red to others, blood of kings are more revered then say a scribe, for the king is the leader, but the scribe would be special in one way, so his blood may in some cases be a more noble color then the king's..."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"False, you sometimes have to retreat in order as they saw "Live to fight another day", I would stand my ground, but if my position was inevitably going to be overrun, I would lose less men in retreat, then if I stood there and fought to the death..."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"It elevates certain men above others, and others fall under the above, I would say that a man would be smart to take advantage of a rising tide, I would have to say false.."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"That is true, sickness cannot stop the truly strong from answering a question, and an ill person will answer honesty, so I say I must agree.."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Despair, I should think, if you loose it, you will be hard pressed to find it, because you will be happy. And as you search for it, you will realize that you will not want to be in Dispair.."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"Curiosity and Mischeif together, will be a form of dangerous amusement, since it could lead to bad things that you will have dug a hole for yourself.."


"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

John nodded and said "It is far better to die what is right, then live under a cruel tyrant and being a coward by not standing up to him for your entire life.."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

John nodded and said "Think of how many explorers died attempting to enlighten, but only got ridiculed for their efforts, think some of the religon missionarys such as Paul, who tried to enlighten the Romans and got crucified!"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"That is certainly the case, I believe, it seems as though very few people have the wits to get through life, it seems as though the parents seem to have trouble applying their wisdom to their children, or even worse, they do, but the children do not listen.."

"No, certainly not right to be a Draco... not smart or clever enough," it said disparagingly. "But then you are quite naive too... I see trouble and misunderstanding in your future.

"You must keep an open mind to all things and listen with your ears, not your heart."

"You shall be an Emantrico... noble, loyal, and naive..." the Clock whispered before roaring to the Grand Hall his house.

[OOC: Check the OOC. Always.]

Angela approached the large clock; she had barely time to unpack when she had been whisked away to the great hall for sorting; her parents had waned her about this; they had been through this them selves. 'Just answer honestly honey and you'll do just fine' had been the last words of her mother before she set off to Exeter Magical school. Still for a 12-year-old girl it was more than just a little bit intimidating all the eyes on you like a piece of meat. She fidgeted nervously having read every magic books she could get hold off in her mothers library she was still new to actually practising magic only coming into her powers 2 years ago. She climbed into the clock nervously

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows to her making Angela swallow hard; "What house do you believe best for you...?" The clock continued.

Angela considered this; she had been given the brief on all of the houses; she'd studied them in depth; there history; there power; "Anything but Draco" she finally replied; "Draco's are powerful, ambitions and intelligent but cruel, ruthless and arrogant. Tempted easily by the dark they believe themselves to be superior to everyone…that isn't me if I had to choose I'd say Titanus as it would temper me in fire and give me more control " Angela continued.

"What house do you want to be in?" The clock asked; Angela had to think for a moment; what house did she want to be in; she had given it very little thought in all fairness; every member of her family had graduated from Exeter school of magic but there was no one consistent house. "I think I'd like to be put in Broc; I'm curious and there's a certain level of mystery to it that intrigues me about Broc; and I believe in courage and loyalty" Angela spoke. She knew the clock would not be likely to put her there now since she had expressed a desire to go there still she had been honest and that was important to her.

"What is it that people seek in life...?" The Old Clock asked; its voice seemed fatherly; old beyond words; experience beyond knowledge it had seen many, many things Angela knew she would have much convocation with this clock over the years she would be here. "People seek a reason to exist, why are we here, what do we want, where are we going. We fill our lives with desires of a new car or that new house because it gives us a distraction from the big questions the questions that matter - why do we exist? Do we exist at all even or are we just a collection of memories and interactions? If no one remembered us; if we never interacted with anyone would we still exist? Are we immortal for as long as people remember us and carry that part of us with them?"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through?" the clock asked next. Angela knew the answer to this; something her mother had said to her from an early age - "In a world of eternal darkness the single candle drives back the night" Angela spoke. 'We stand on the bridge and yell none shall pass; we tread the places others fear to go, we hold the line against the night. protected are those that walk in the light, by those that walk in the shadows'

"Is all blood the same colour of red?", The Clock asked soon after and Angela smiled now confident in herself; "its all Red; we're all human; pure blood, mixed blood, non-magic were all in the same species no body is better than anyone else. And being a good or a bad person has nothing to do with who your blood line is; we all have choices; free will is paramount we can choose to be better than what we are, to try and be nobler than we know"

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?" the Clock spoke again and with each question Angela found her feet more and smiled somehow hoping the clock could see her; "Not True. Being cowardly has nothing to do with running away; those that can fight should fight so those that can't don't have to; courage is not about acting without fear its about acting even when your afraid. Not everyone is capable of fighting and fighting a losing battle is not the same as fighting a meaningless one"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?" the Clock asked next; "No; only boats that are strong enough to survive the tide rise above it. Smaller boats can crack and get smashed against the rocks; the bigger and stronger boats need to act as tethers; a life line for those too small to survive on there own"

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"; the clock asked and Angela answered right away. "Perhaps but I find health rarely has anything to do with convictions the terminally ill seek answers for some deeper meaning; maybe they haven't had a good life and seek some kind of redemption or atonement. Or maybe they've realised that if they had the chance to do it over again they would and this time appreciate the moments and judge themselves by what they are; not what they aren't"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?" the clocked asked; Angela paused for a moment and thought about it; "Too many things; time, love, Humanity, Friendship sometimes. I'd say Hope but I believe we always have a choice where there's life there's hope"

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?" the Clock asked and Angela grinned; "Curiosity without control can be dangerous; Curiosity can lead to power that can escape your ability to hold it; after all it did kill the cat"

"True or false..." The clock began; "Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation." It asked. Angela thought about it; "Better to die on your feet than live on your knees; but sometimes an humiliating defeat can make you stronger make you strive to be better so it doesn’t happen again"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."; the clock asked and Angela nodded. "I'd have to say true history is littered with incidents of persecution for defying convention; Aristotle, Gallialo, Columbus, Einstein; all of them ridiculed in there day; but its all down to perspective after all one mans enlightenment is another mans heresy"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses." The clock asked its final question and Angela was grateful not because she hadn't enjoyed talking to the clock. She had in fact enjoyed that very much but she knew the clocked was talking everything she said mulling it over and judging her on it; she paused thinking about the final question. "Like I said; I think we all have the ability to choose; we only say we have no choice to comfort ourselves in a decision we've already made; if we understand that…then there is hope; if not…not so much. I think anyone can be better than what they think they are; but they have to choose to and no body can make that choice for them" Angela answered finally.

The Clock let the answers linger in the air. It had been a couple of years since he had such thoughtful, complete, and well explained answers. "You are quite smart... clever and kind... and knowledgeable," the Clock said with a bit of a chuckle to Angela. "And I don't mind telling you that you have given the best collective answers in the last couple of years."

She had missed on a couple, given answers that were secondary on some, but overall he was quite pleased. There had been those over the decades and centuries that had known more, answered better, or knew literally everything, but in the last couple years, she had done the best job in the Sorting. "You remind me of a student who entered a year or two past - it's hard to remember just how long when you have been sorting fifty students a year for a millennium. But take solace in that he was most impressive..."

"No doubt you could succeed in any house, but I think you could follow well... in the House of Titanus!"

As the door opened to release Angela, it swung slightly and a whisper seemed to wink in her mind, "Don't be such a stranger. I have seen something special in you..."

Angela smiled quite happy with her result; Titanus was a good house; not what she wanted but it was the best for her even she had to admit that. She nodded at the clock hearing the 'wink' in her mind wanting to say 'I won't be' but it would seem rather strange to her new house mates given that her new compatriots were now ecstatically jumping up and down excited for there new addition. she hoped though that the Clock got the sentiment as she was dragged off and put in Titanus robes; promising herself that she would definitely come and talk to the clock again as a friend rather than someone to be sorted.

She looked around at her fellow Titanus appointee's and those likely to be her class mates for the following years; already the Dracos were glaring daggers. Still for some reason; she didn't know why but she wasn't afraid anymore she knew she was stronger than them; not because of her heritage but because she was a better person; being a Draco must be so lonely she thought idly...

Aggy Shackleford lay on his bed, looking at all the bags he had packed for school. It was hard to imagine that he was already in his fifth year. In fact, he could remember when he first got sorted....



The Aggy that aproached the clock looked much different from his 15 year old self. His hair was much shorter, and it was gelled up into spikes. He was much shorter, and he lacked his trademark shades.

Suddenly the clock spoke
"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"Mate, anything but Draco, I mean, I'm half-blooded and I live with me Muggle mother! So I guess that makes me a Muggle lover."

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"I guess the one that'll have me, I always found Titanus girls the hottest..."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"Pleasure baby, pleasure."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

"Friends mate, friends and a good attitude."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"Of course! Why worry about purity? It doesn't matter."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"Oh no mate, flight is for the smart."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"True, that's pretty profound, you should write a book."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"Yeah mate, what you said..."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Purity of blood. No one will ever be pure again mate, so you might as well forget about lookin for it."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"My constant need for stimulation mate, I gotta be feelin good all the time.."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"Well chum, they both kinda suck now don't they? But I'd have to agree, at least you don't suffer when yer dead."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Yeh, that they have. It's a real shame, but people have too many hangups mate, they are afraid of change.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"Again, unfortunately so. It's too bad."

And then young Agememnon waited...

Aggy Shackleford lay on his bed, looking at all the bags he had packed for school. It was hard to imagine that he was already in his fifth year. In fact, he could remember when he first got sorted....



The Aggy that aproached the clock looked much different from his 15 year old self. His hair was much shorter, and it was gelled up into spikes. He was much shorter, and he lacked his trademark shades.

Suddenly the clock spoke
"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"Mate, anything but Draco, I mean, I'm half-blooded and I live with me Muggle mother! So I guess that makes me a Muggle lover."

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"I guess the one that'll have me, I always found Titanus girls the hottest..."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"Pleasure baby, pleasure."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

"Friends mate, friends and a good attitude."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"Of course! Why worry about purity? It doesn't matter."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"Oh no mate, flight is for the smart."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"True, that's pretty profound, you should write a book."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"Yeah mate, what you said..."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Purity of blood. No one will ever be pure again mate, so you might as well forget about lookin for it."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"My constant need for stimulation mate, I gotta be feelin good all the time.."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"Well chum, they both kinda suck now don't they? But I'd have to agree, at least you don't suffer when yer dead."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Yeh, that they have. It's a real shame, but people have too many hangups mate, they are afraid of change.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"Again, unfortunately so. It's too bad."

And then young Agememnon waited...

"No, neither Draco nor Titanus will do for you," the Sorting Clock said. Most of his answers had been "blah" - nothing special or that indicated his inclinations. All that they showed was that he was quite unique, and Draco and Titanus left little room for his type of attitude and personality.

However, he had quite enjoyed his answer about what was lost that could never be found again. Not even Dracos ever came up with that answer, but it was certainly an interesting and clever one. Perhaps not the most philosophical, but certainly extremely logical and true.

"Somehow I don't think these houses will change you much," the Clock said calmly. "Perhaps it will be the other way around and you will change them for the time being..."

"I thin, though, that I have the House for you. Unique indeed it has always been as seen in its banner... Broc!"

When his turn came to be sorted, Henry McGiffin walked as calmly as he could to the clock, trying to conceal the trembling in his hands. He stepped inside and stuttered the answers to the questions as best he could.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Ummm... Broc or Emantricos, I think. But I'm a pure blood so Draco might want me..."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"I'd like to be in Emantricos."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"To succeed at the goals set before them... and better themselves?"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"Hope."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"Yes, no matter whose blood is spilt it is all the same."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"N-no... Flight is for those who wish to fight again."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"Except those with holes in the bottom, those can never be raised."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"No, the conviction is still there."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"The past can't be found or got back, so searching for it will just push it further away. You can recreate things though."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Arrogance and belief in your own power and safety is dangerous."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"False, even the most modest of the living can still achieve something, what can you do when you are dead?"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"And many, many more who weren't enlightened got hanged afterwards. That is the way of things."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"No, even the simplest of people will appreciate a sound idea, even after the most powerful lord has faded away."

Tobias strode with confidence to the clock before nearly tripping when he entered. The voice of the clock seemed to both in him and around him. He answered with the confidence he had learned from his mother.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Emantricos

"What house do you want to be in...?"
The one that will help me reach my fullest potential

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Personal gratification even though it should be peace

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
If there is light, there can not be eternal darkness, hope and love are those lights

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Scientifically, no; but to the one who desires peace, yes

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
False, flight is for the wise

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
yes, but where the tide rises, it must eventually fall

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
the answers are the release of conviction

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Time and life

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Knowledge. With it comes power, and with power comes temptation.

"True or false..."
The world is full of shades of grey, there is no exact distinction

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Live with dignity to die with dignity. And live with dignity by holding true to your beliefs until the very end.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
False, they were simply ignored for being ahead of their time. Hanging would have been kinder.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Again, there are many shades of grey and with intelligence comes power.

When his turn came to be sorted, Henry McGiffin walked as calmly as he could to the clock, trying to conceal the trembling in his hands. He stepped inside and stuttered the answers to the questions as best he could.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Ummm... Broc or Emantricos, I think. But I'm a pure blood so Draco might want me..."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"I'd like to be in Emantricos."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"To succeed at the goals set before them... and better themselves?"

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"Hope."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"Yes, no matter whose blood is spilt it is all the same."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"N-no... Flight is for those who wish to fight again."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"Except those with holes in the bottom, those can never be raised."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"No, the conviction is still there."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"The past can't be found or got back, so searching for it will just push it further away. You can recreate things though."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Arrogance and belief in your own power and safety is dangerous."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"False, even the most modest of the living can still achieve something, what can you do when you are dead?"

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"And many, many more who weren't enlightened got hanged afterwards. That is the way of things."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"No, even the simplest of people will appreciate a sound idea, even after the most powerful lord has faded away."

After Henry had spoken his piece, the Sorting Clock sat in silence for an unusually long amount of time. The clock hands whirred endlessly as the magical device had an inner debate.

Finally coming to answer, it spoke slowly and made sure it chose its words carefully. "I have come to my decision, and though it is one you may not like, you must understand that I do it for your own good. If my faith you is not misplaced, you will exit this house stronger and sounder of mine than you would from any other, but if I have overburdened you that I fear the worst..."

"I do not make this decision lightly, so I hope you do not take it as so... You are to become a Draco..." The word hung in the stale air as everyone in the hall waiting on the edge of their seats. "Draco!" it repeated and the corresponding table cheered wildly as the other three long tables sat with unhappy looks on their face.

Before letting the child leave through the door, the Sorting Clock said one last thing, barely audible over the cheers. "Remember always, you are more a part of the house than the house is a part of you... Faith and fidelity."

Tobias strode with confidence to the clock before nearly tripping when he entered. The voice of the clock seemed to both in him and around him. He answered with the confidence he had learned from his mother.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Emantricos

"What house do you want to be in...?"
The one that will help me reach my fullest potential

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Personal gratification even though it should be peace

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
If there is light, there can not be eternal darkness, hope and love are those lights

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Scientifically, no; but to the one who desires peace, yes

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
False, flight is for the wise

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
yes, but where the tide rises, it must eventually fall

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
the answers are the release of conviction

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Time and life

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Knowledge. With it comes power, and with power comes temptation.

"True or false..."
The world is full of shades of grey, there is no exact distinction

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Live with dignity to die with dignity. And live with dignity by holding true to your beliefs until the very end.

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
False, they were simply ignored for being ahead of their time. Hanging would have been kinder.

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Again, there are many shades of grey and with intelligence comes power.

"Ah, another Schulz is it," the Clock declared as the child entered into its base. "I am afraid that living up to your parents may be quite difficult... especially when you enter the world of loyalty in the House of Emantrico, but then it is the house that best suits you."

"Your potential for power may have been maximized in the other, but I do not feel that you truly wish to maximize your potential for power, but rather your potential for good... and in Draco, it becomes much harder. But where you are going, to the Emantricos, the path lays clear..."

"Emantrico!" the Sorting Clock said quickly, much quicker than many of the other sortings. The Emantricos swelling numbers cheered as a spot was made at the table for Tobias.

Sirenia sat idly twirling her spoon between her fingers over breakfast. It was a grey misty morning, the kind that's perfect for reminiscing...

~~~~~~~

Sirenia stepped into the clock smartly; she returned the eager stares of the crowd with her own sharp stare like a caged animal on exhibit. Her heart was beating like it would burst and splatter all over the glass door, she even pictured that happening in her head, (she was very prone to those sorts of whimsical micro-daydreams) albeit morbid, the ridiculousness of the imagery diverted and soothed her. She took a breath and listened as the deep voice of the clock started to speak...

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellowed

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Honestly, I don't know... probably not Draco or Emantricos. I'm not pure blood, and I don't care about pure blood. Loyalty... well, loyalty is the pitfall of the naive... because people get hung up on the word loyalty and forget that how loyal you are is not as important as what you are loyal to. "

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"Broc, because it seems the most mysterious. Hopefully anything other than Emantricos... I want to follow my own path, and I won't be lead by others."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"self-actualization? Although, that's not what I seek the most, but people in general probably do."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"It depends on what kind of eternal darkness it is. If you're deep under the ocean, it's probably just some jellyfish."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"Yes, I mean metaphorically, of course... technically blood can vary in color based on whether it's oxygenated or not. "

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"The cowardly or the strategic, rarely is it the case where you can say that an action can only be prompted by one single motive."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"False, not all boats are in the rising tide. Honestly though, I'm not really one for politics."

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"Semantics... if the sickness causes the release of conviction then it is still under sickness. Though I have yet to ever be sick enough to see if this indeed happens."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Innocence. Some might say time, but I've heard tell of strange devices that can take you back in time, but even if you could go back and regain lost time you could never go back and regain lost innocence and in trying you will only realize more and more just how much you have lost."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?"
"Eyes... for they are the windows to the soul. There is no more dangerous amusement than prying amongst the labyrinth of a person's soul because you never know what you may find..."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"Well you see... typically I would think humiliation could be overthrown much more easily than death, so then false. It would depend on the circumstance of course, but often humiliation merely serves as more fuel to the fire of ambition... the indignities of life merely serve to further sweeten the taste of victory once it is obtained."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"Undoubtedly true."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"Knowledge and wisdom are gained over time, but intelligence is innate. Nevertheless, true."

Sirenia sat idly twirling her spoon between her fingers over breakfast. It was a grey misty morning, the kind that's perfect for reminiscing...

~~~~~~~

Sirenia stepped into the clock smartly; she returned the eager stares of the crowd with her own sharp stare like a caged animal on exhibit. Her heart was beating like it would burst and splatter all over the glass door, she even pictured that happening in her head, (she was very prone to those sorts of whimsical micro-daydreams) albeit morbid, the ridiculousness of the imagery diverted and soothed her. She took a breath and listened as the deep voice of the clock started to speak...

"Honestly, I don't know... probably not Draco or Emantricos. I'm not pure blood, and I don't care about pure blood. Loyalty... well, loyalty is the pitfall of the naive... because people get hung up on the word loyalty and forget that how loyal you are is not as important as what you are loyal to. "

True, but don't think all who are identified by loyalty are as such...

"Broc, because it seems the most mysterious. Hopefully anything other than Emantricos... I want to follow my own path, and I won't be lead by others."

"The want of mystery can be as dangerous as anything..."

"self-actualization? Although, that's not what I seek the most, but people in general probably do."

"And what is it you seek that is so different?"

"It depends on what kind of eternal darkness it is. If you're deep under the ocean, it's probably just some jellyfish."

"Deep under the ocean great mystery lies..."

"Yes, I mean metaphorically, of course... technically blood can vary in color based on whether it's oxygenated or not. "

"And thus all blood is worth the same...?"

"The cowardly or the strategic, rarely is it the case where you can say that an action can only be prompted by one single motive."

"Except in the heat of passion..."

"False, not all boats are in the rising tide. Honestly though, I'm not really one for politics."

"A most clever answer... but then are not all waters linked?"

"Semantics... if the sickness causes the release of conviction then it is still under sickness. Though I have yet to ever be sick enough to see if this indeed happens."

"Who said it was the sickness and not the illness...?

"Innocence. Some might say time, but I've heard tell of strange devices that can take you back in time, but even if you could go back and regain lost time you could never go back and regain lost innocence and in trying you will only realize more and more just how much you have lost."

"Even revisiting time cannot regain it..."

"Eyes... for they are the windows to the soul. There is no more dangerous amusement than prying amongst the labyrinth of a person's soul because you never know what you may find..."

"Straight in the face indeed..."

"Well you see... typically I would think humiliation could be overthrown much more easily than death, so then false. It would depend on the circumstance of course, but often humiliation merely serves as more fuel to the fire of ambition... the indignities of life merely serve to further sweeten the taste of victory once it is obtained."

"If it is obtained..."

"Undoubtedly true."

"Not to all is it.."

"Knowledge and wisdom are gained over time, but intelligence is innate. Nevertheless, true."

"You are clever indeed. Your answers are true if not hedged greatly..." the Sorting Clock spoke. "I wonder if you are afraid of being wrong. But then a Broc would not be afraid, would one? Perhaps just smart then..."

There was nothing particularly distinguishing about the girl save for her lack of definitive answers often. However, she wanted Broc for the mysteries, and the mysteries she would explore. "Broc!" It cried loudly...

"Walk up to the clock," said the professor. Ryan Getzlaf walked up some stairs to an old grandfather clock. Um, OK, he thought. What is this supposed to do? But he kept a respectful look on his face as the whole schoold watched.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

I jumped back several feet. "It spoke!" I said.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"Um, sir, I believe, Titanus or Emantricos, I believe, sir." Ryan stuttured it out.

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"Either Titanus or Emantricos, sir," said Ryan starting to regain confidence.

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"What is it that people seek in life? It depends on the person, I suppose. Like, a greedy person would want anything you could give them. Power, money. But calm, intelligent people would most likely want happiness.

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

Ryan pondered this question. "Well, probably love. You can't extinguish love...."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

Again Ryan thought. This was probably a trick question. Then again.... he decided to take a chance. "No."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

A smirk crept across Ryan's face. "No!"

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

Then Ryan's face darkened all the more as he thought. "No. There are some boats that are too heavy." He meant dark witches and the like.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

Again Ryan didn't know what to say. "Um, sure?"

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

He took a long time to answer. "Well, true love? Wouldn't that be it?"

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?

"The symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face? Definitely Quidditch.

"True or false..."

What? he thought. "True or false what?" he asked back.

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

A grim look took over Ryan's face. "Yes."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Definitely," said Ryan. "Look at Albert Einstein!"

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

Ryan bit his lower lip. "Well, yes."

~snip~

[OOC: Read OOC.]

Thomas walked up the clock as told. A different method of sorting was used at his last school, but the principals seemed the same.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"Any but Draco."

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"I don't know, once again, anything but Draco."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"Something to make it all worthwile."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

"The light of your heart?" Thomas was unsure on this one.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"Yes. Pure-blood and Muggle-born, we all bleed red." Thomas thought he had understood that one.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"It depends. Flight to save what you can is not, but flight to save yourself at the expense of others is."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"Except those with holes in their hull." Thomas gave an involuntary smile.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"Erm, yes." Thomas was confused by that one.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Not necesarily. I think. Isn't that a Beatles song?" Once again, he was confused.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?"

"Probably knowledge. Or spell creation."


"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"Wrong, because you can get over humiliation. Death is permanent."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Maybe not on the lampposts, but still true."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"Possibly. If the masses could ever be united, then I think otherwise."

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"I believe that anywhere I go will be best because even if it dose not suit me at first both me and it will change for the best."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"I care not what house I am in for no matter where I land I will make it right for me."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"People seek different thing though life but we are all guided by the primal need to advance the species."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"As long as there is life there is hope and it is the light of that hope that will always peek through even the darkest of times so long as there is life."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"The blood of an octopus is blue and the blood of a tree may be amber, opaque, or clear so clearly not all blood is the same colour."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"False to flee is only natural and to fight in the face of certin death without good reason is nothing but foolish."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"Perhaps but more important to keep in mind is weather the boat is any better off higher or will they simply be in a worse place once the tide recieds

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"The ill take ansurers because they see the truth and accept it."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Not always, but often the process of searching it's self is worth while for although you may not find what your looking for, you may end up finding something more important."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Arragance, those who think them selves superior above and the laws of nature shall at some point be crushed by her loving embrace."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"False for one can die in vain with dignity, but all life is always sacred."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"True, but that should not stop those who wish to enlighten because there are times when sacrafice may help ones cause more than life."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"Intelligence is the greatest form of power with it one can control the masses and the leaders."

Thomas walked up the clock as told. A different method of sorting was used at his last school, but the principals seemed the same.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows

"What house do you believe best for you...?"

"Any but Draco."

"What house do you want to be in...?"

"I don't know, once again, anything but Draco."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"

"Something to make it all worthwile."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"

"The light of your heart?" Thomas was unsure on this one.

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"

"Yes. Pure-blood and Muggle-born, we all bleed red." Thomas thought he had understood that one.

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"

"It depends. Flight to save what you can is not, but flight to save yourself at the expense of others is."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"

"Except those with holes in their hull." Thomas gave an involuntary smile.

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"

"Erm, yes." Thomas was confused by that one.

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"

"Not necesarily. I think. Isn't that a Beatles song?" Once again, he was confused.

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?"

"Probably knowledge. Or spell creation."


"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"Wrong, because you can get over humiliation. Death is permanent."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."

"Maybe not on the lampposts, but still true."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."

"Possibly. If the masses could ever be united, then I think otherwise."

The Sorting Clock was not terribly impressed by this student. He showed no true zeal, cleverness, intelligence, or desire. It did not reply or remark at any answer; it was as if the Clock was simply bored.

In a dull and slow voice, the Clock replied, "Emantrico," and then the door opened to release him.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"I believe that anywhere I go will be best because even if it dose not suit me at first both me and it will change for the best."

"What house do you want to be in...?"
"I care not what house I am in for no matter where I land I will make it right for me."

"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"People seek different thing though life but we are all guided by the primal need to advance the species."

"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"As long as there is life there is hope and it is the light of that hope that will always peek through even the darkest of times so long as there is life."

"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"The blood of an octopus is blue and the blood of a tree may be amber, opaque, or clear so clearly not all blood is the same colour."

"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"False to flee is only natural and to fight in the face of certin death without good reason is nothing but foolish."

"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"Perhaps but more important to keep in mind is weather the boat is any better off higher or will they simply be in a worse place once the tide recieds

"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"The ill take ansurers because they see the truth and accept it."

"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Not always, but often the process of searching it's self is worth while for although you may not find what your looking for, you may end up finding something more important."

"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Arragance, those who think them selves superior above and the laws of nature shall at some point be crushed by her loving embrace."

"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
"False for one can die in vain with dignity, but all life is always sacred."

"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"True, but that should not stop those who wish to enlighten because there are times when sacrafice may help ones cause more than life."

"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"Intelligence is the greatest form of power with it one can control the masses and the leaders."

The Clock thought for a moment, deciding to hold back its comments rather than present them upon each response. "You are smart, clever even..." it responded slowly, "But not as smart as you think. You fail to see the whole picture and your convictions may lead you astray..."

"Nevertheless," it said in a slight sigh of its voice that reverberated off of the wood interior. "You are to join the House of Titanus..."

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Not my choice to make.
"What house do you want to be in...?"
Doesn't matter, I just wish to become powerful enough to get what I call justice...and what others may call vengence and insanity.
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Two things: 1.) Meaning, that is, purpose in a purposeless world and 2.) constants in life so they can feel happy.
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Who cares? Light and Dark have nothing to do with right or wrong.
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Are you stupid? Have you ever seen someone bleed? It's all the same color.
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
There are tactical retreats to fight again another day
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Depends on if it tips it over or not, doesn't it?
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
People always try and find scapegoats to problems. Desperation and despair make people have selective hearing.
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Not if they think about what they did with it first.
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Carelessness and arrogance.
"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Damn right.
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Yup.
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Smartest thing you've said for the short time I've known you.



----


That was for my main character. Do I make a separate one for my NPC or do they automatically go to the same house?

Forgot one, False.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
Not my choice to make.
"What house do you want to be in...?"
Doesn't matter, I just wish to become powerful enough to get what I call justice...and what others may call vengence and insanity.
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
Two things: 1.) Meaning, that is, purpose in a purposeless world and 2.) constants in life so they can feel happy.
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
Who cares? Light and Dark have nothing to do with right or wrong.
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
Are you stupid? Have you ever seen someone bleed? It's all the same color.
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
There are tactical retreats to fight again another day
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
Depends on if it tips it over or not, doesn't it?
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
People always try and find scapegoats to problems. Desperation and despair make people have selective hearing.
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
Not if they think about what they did with it first.
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
Carelessness and arrogance.
"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."
Damn right.
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
Yup.
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
Smartest thing you've said for the short time I've known you.



----


That was for my main character. Do I make a separate one for my NPC or do they automatically go to the same house?

Though the boy was not one of vile or blood dominanace, he certainly had a certain air about him that denoted a sense of power and arrogance, despite his claim that it was dangerous. He wasn't the prototypical member of the House of Draco, but his personality certainly gelled in similar ways.

Break him or "bethrone" him, this house will, the Clock thought in silence. A moment later the glass door burst open and the cry of "Draco" was echoed by his new House members.

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows.
"Well hello to you too." mutters Foxfire as he steps inside.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Titanus. You see, Draco is full of bastards, all the Emantricos will go charging to their deaths one day, and Broc...well, Broc is too much like the Emantricos for my taste."
"What house do you want to be in...?"
"See above answer."
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"For each day to go pretty much like the last."
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"The brightest light casts the darkest shadow..."
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"Some blood, Pure and None, is thin and watery. Other blood is thick and strong."
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"Not if it saves you or your friend's lives. Retreat is always an option."
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"True, but not all will make it to shore."
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"Depends on the sick in question..."
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Life. No magic can bring back the dead."
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Laziness. It's wounderful, but can easily undermine the best plans of mice and men."
"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"True. "It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." What my old man says, and I believe it."
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"Yes, but that does not stop others from trying. Sometimes, one must sacrifice for the good of many."
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"As a whole, people are stupid, close minded, arrogant creatures. Once in a while something may break though, but this is rare."

"Answer the following questions..." the Sorting Clock bellows.
"Well hello to you too." mutters Foxfire as he steps inside.

"What house do you believe best for you...?"
"Titanus. You see, Draco is full of bastards, all the Emantricos will go charging to their deaths one day, and Broc...well, Broc is too much like the Emantricos for my taste."
"What house do you want to be in...?"
"See above answer."
"What is it that people seek in life...?"
"For each day to go pretty much like the last."
"In eternal darkness, what light peeks through...?"
"The brightest light casts the darkest shadow..."
"Is all blood the same color of red...?"
"Some blood, Pure and None, is thin and watery. Other blood is thick and strong."
"Flight is for the cowardly, true?"
"Not if it saves you or your friend's lives. Retreat is always an option."
"A rising tide lifts all boats, yes?"
"True, but not all will make it to shore."
"The ill take answers not under sickness, but release of conviction, yes?"
"Depends on the sick in question..."
"What is lost that can never be found again, and searching will only lose it more?"
"Life. No magic can bring back the dead."
"What is the symbol of dangerous amusement that looks you in the face?
"Laziness. It's wounderful, but can easily undermine the best plans of mice and men."
"True or false..."

"Death with dignity is better than life with humiliation."

"True. "It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." What my old man says, and I believe it."
"Many of those who tried to enlighten were hanged from the lampposts."
"Yes, but that does not stop others from trying. Sometimes, one must sacrifice for the good of many."
"Power to those with time and ambition, but intelligence is lost on the masses."
"As a whole, people are stupid, close minded, arrogant creatures. Once in a while something may break though, but this is rare."

"Think what you may," the Sorting Clock bellowed after the new student had finished. "But it is the House of Broc that is best for you. You think you should be in Titanus like most do, but you present the qualities and attributes of a Broc."

"And so it shall be... Broc!"

Foxfire bowed to the Clock. "As you see fit." He walked over and joined the Broc table.