Long ago in a sky built before us
A supernova grew up to be stardust

Nights where they had Astronomy were among Alice's least favorite nights. She understood the general premise of the class and knew enough to ensure a passing grade, but that's where her interest stopped. The stars were just that — stars. Using them for guidance was a nifty trick, sure, but Alice knew she wouldn't rely upon them often. The only worthwhile piece of information to remember was the moon's cycle, and even that was more for her potions than any love for Astronomy.

She had pulled away from the group of Gryffindors nearly immediately upon entering the tower, intending to buddy up with Calla for the class. However, Calla had already found a partner which left Alice floundering. She could ask Sisse or Edison, but she was still battling both the guilt of sharing her fight with Cameron with Sisse and her ever present feelings for Edison. Staying up that night to read and chat with him had been a mistake, one she couldn't dare repeat again. (Even if she did long for more nights of just that.)

With all her usual partners taken, Alice approached another Hufflepuff, a Mr. Evermonde, instead. "Hello," she greeted. Despite sharing classes for four years Alice couldn't think of a single instance in which they had been partners. "Would it be alright if I joined you?"