Arthur would have closed his eyes and tuned out, had it not been for Mavis's reaction. He hadn't given the speaker more than a glance before, but looking closer he quickly realized that something was not right. The other students had seemingly picked up on it, and the entire hall went silent save for a few frantic whispers. "A hag." Arthur said softly, remembering the faery tale book he'd had as a child. "That's a real life hag..."
The monstrous woman looked around the room hesitantly, her once-excited smile fading as she took in the frightened reaction from the students. She cleared her throat, glancing down at the notecards she held in her hand. "Um, yes... To all the new students; welcome!" she began, voice a little shaky. "And to those of you returning; welcome back! My name is Magistrix Fen-Breath, and I think I speak for all of us when I tell you how excited it is being here tonight!"
The hag scanned the room, as if she were expecting the students to perk up at this. A few of the older students halfheartedly murmured in agreement. Many of the younger children were still staring at her uncomfortably, as if waiting for the woman to pounce at them. Arthur sighed, leaning back in his seat. "Myyla, this sucks..."
Seemingly discouraged, the magistrix nervously glanced back at the faculty table. The headmistress gave her a curt nod, and she seemed to relax slightly. "Tonight not only marks the start of the semester," she continued, turning back to the gathered students. "But it marks my first day as Magistrix as well. As I'm sure some of you already know, Magister Zinzolin passed away over break. He was a talented mage and a wise teacher, and I'm deeply humbled to have been chosen as his replacement." The hag clasped her oversized hands together, smiling excitedly as she looked around the room. "Teaching our newest generation of witches and wizards is such a privilege, and I must thank the Magistarium for this remarkable opportunity. I look forward to meeting and working with each and every one of you!"
Magistrix Fen-Breath looked around the room expectantly. After a few moments of silence, the headmistress began to clap. The hall slowly filled with unentheusiastic applause, and the hag took a seat. Arthur remained motionless, closing his eyes tightly as the surrounding students began to resume their meals. "Gods, I just want to go home..."