Introduction (From Harry Potter: Past the Point of No Return)

Professor Dashiell Charles entered the Main Gate to Hogwart's in a small carriage. This was the first time that he had returned to his old school since he finished, many years ago. Upon arriving at the Main Entrance, he was greeted by a man in a small bowler hat. Dash knew that this was Cornelius Fudge, current Headmaster of the school. The only Headmaster Dash had known was Professor Dumbledore. Dash had heard several things about the new Headmaster, but chose to reserve his opinion until he had spoken more in depth to the man.

The carriage stopped and the door was opened by the older gentleman. Dash exited the carriage and extended his hand to the other man.

"Good morning, Headmaster," Dash said. "I'm Dashiell Charles."

"Welcome, Professor Charles," Fudge said. "I am pleased you accepted the position for our Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher. It has been a difficult search."

Dash waved his wand toward the back of the carriage. His bags suddenly started to float and follow behind him as Fudge led him into the castle. As they walked, Dash spoke up. "Headmaster," he said. "I understand that you have requested to view my curriculum before I begin teaching. May I ask why?"

Fudge twiddled his thumbs nervously. "I only want to make sure that the students are receiving the proper training for their year." He paused, hoping he could think of something else. "And . . ." he said quietly. "The new Minister of Magic has new rules and policies about the teaching of this particular class."

"Very well," Dash said, inwardly disappointed. "I will bring you a copy of the materials later this afternoon, after I've gotten settled." In his mind, Dash started to think of all the things he would need to change so that the Headmaster would have no reason to sack him before he had even started teaching.

As Dash finished his statement, Fudge stopped at a room on the first floor. "Professor," he offered. "This is your classroom. And your personal belongings can be placed in the office area, just inside and up the stairs."

"Thank you, Headmaster," Dashiell said and opened the door. Walking into the room, Dash towed his things behind, floating, of course. He stepped in and looked around. The room was decorated plainly with desks in perfect rows with an aisle down the middle. "This will do just nicely," he said, half to himself and half aloud.

Fudge, who had been standing behind Dash's trunks coughed slightly to get his attention. Dash turned back to face the Headmaster.

"Professor Charles, I wish to see your curriculum by three this afternoon. the students will arrive at six and the Sorting Ceremony will start at seven thirty."

"Yes, sir," Dash responded.

Fudge nodded, twirled on his heels and walked away. Dash started moving toward his office area with his trunks trailing behind. "This is going to be the start of a good year," Dash thought to himself as he climbed the stairs and into the office.