Some younger students in the crowd were visibly frightened, and Druella noticed a few wiping away tears. Narcissa softened, her gaze moving to them. "I am well aware some may be afraid of me, but no need to be."
The room was still, tense, but Narcissa didn't falter. "For now, I'd like to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor... Professor Remus Lupin."
The students applauded, and Druella joined in, intrigued by the professor's calm presence. As the applause died down, Seamus whispered to Neville, "What's with her?"
Neville simply shrugged, his expression one of confusion. "No idea, but I don't trust her."
Hagrid, sitting nearby, wore an expression that seemed torn between sadness and excitement. Narcissa acknowledged him warmly. "Please welcome Rubeus Hagrid, taking over as the Professor of Care of Magical Creatures professor."
Narcissa continued to introduce the new professors, each name drawing mixed reactions from the students. Finally, she addressed the vacant spot in Divination.
"I am sorry to announce that Professor Sybill Trelawney will no longer be teaching. She has accepted a job offer elsewhere."
Druella's mind immediately recalled the conversation she had had with Trelawney just before the departure. The professor had confided in her that she was leaving due to Dumbledore's removal from his post. She hadn't mentioned much, but Druella had heard rumours of Trelawney's potential new role at Beauxbatons Academy in France. There were whispers, too, of the possibility that she was leaving for safety, fleeing from the shadows that lingered over the wizarding world.
Some said she was involved in You-Know-Who's plans, but Druella didn't know the truth. What she did know was that Dumbledore had kept Trelawney safe at Hogwarts for a reason, and now, with her sudden departure, the rumours seemed even darker.
As the introductions continued, Druella's thoughts swirled with uncertainty. Her aunt's position as Headmistress felt like a stepping stone in a larger, more dangerous game. But for now, the evening would continue, and Druella would have to remain vigilant, especially with the growing sense that something was changing within her.
Narcissa's gaze swept over the room, her piercing blue eyes locking onto the students as she addressed the crowd. "I'd like to introduce you to Allanah Rowynn, the new Divination Professor."
As the applause echoed through the hall, Druella couldn't help but feel a flicker of unease. Allanah Rowynn stood up, her gaze scanning the room with intense interest. Her eyes, an unnaturally sharp shade of blue, seemed to take in every student as if memorizing their faces. Druella exchanged a look with Draco.
"She was so odd on the train before we departed," Druella whispered, her voice laced with confusion. "She was so strange staring at me. I don't get it."
The conversation shifted, and they both giggled quietly. Draco turned back to the front, where Narcissa continued her speech. "Mother will keep Potter in line, Ellie." He then shifted to Harry, leaving Druella to observe the conversation. "Hey Potter, is it true that you fainted?"
Druella shot Draco an annoyed glance, but before she could respond, Ron muttered, "Oh, shove it, Draco."
Narcissa's voice grew steady, commanding the room's attention. "As your new Headmistress, I'm committed to ensuring every student's safety and well-being. Recent... events have made it clear that Hogwarts requires a new approach to security."
Murmurs rippled through the hall like wildfire. Druella could feel the tension mounting, the air thick with uncertainty. The mention of Sirius Black's escape only fueled the whispers. Narcissa's words cut through the noise, her tone firm and reassuring. "Sirius Black's escape has prompted me to work with the Ministry, stationing Dementors around the school. This is for your protection, especially those he may target. There will soon be other safety precautions for certain students. As some need personal care at this moment. And I intend to have personal care for those student ensuring their safety."