The Sword Of Destiny

Chapter I

I am a Witch!

Halsey was a little girl living with her little sister Laila in a cottage. She was 11 and her sister was 10. Her sister was annoying, but, luckily, she was used to it. Her mother, Joanne was currently in the U.S.A and was with her father, Chris who were studying masters in the history of magic to write an article in the Ireland Parchment. It was 29th August in the night when Laila burst into Halsey’s room and woke her up. Halsey was horrified.

“Halsey wake up! You have to go to Magicals! Even little sister has woken up to tell you! You will learn about magic! Oh, wow. So wonderful and lucky you are!” Laila said.

“What are you talking about Laila? What Magicals and what learning about magic?” Halsey asked. “Are you cuckoo or are you gone nuts?”

“Look. I got a letter from an owl, like some owl post. There is a letter from Magicals saying that:

Dear Halsey,

‘The Truth Pen’ has chosen you for joining Magicals witch batch to learn magic and the secrets of our world. Kindly meet our “Trans and Spells” teacher, Professor Xellonese.

Regards,

Professor Nullygul, the school Headmaster

That’s what I was talking about. Lucky you!” she said in a mood of sadness and happiness.

“Oh, oh, oh my god! I am a witch! What a lucky witch I am! I can’t believe this at all! Am I dreaming?” Halsey said with a laugh.

“Book a ticket, I am going to Magicals and I’ll become a witch. You’ll see sis. I’ll be a witch and I’ll know magic. Can you believe this?” she exclaimed.

Halsey kept on chattering until Laila was 100% bored of her chattering. They headed to Quaffle Alley from a pizza shop’s dustbin corner and there they met Greg. He was also selected for Magicals. They bought all the books, Halsey bought herself a little cat called Cookie, and an owl called Lorre from Creatimals, a shop owned by an Indian and English woman, Padma Smith. She also bought Laila a never going to grow puppy and Laila name it Ritop. Halsey along with the letter had got a big roll of parchment on what things to buy from Quaffle Alley:

UNIFORM

3 plain black robes (black or dark blue), 1 pointy hat (brown of black), a plain (white) shirt, tie to be provided at school, a skirt (black or dark blue) and black sandals or shoes.

BOOKS TO BE BROUGHT

Please notice that your witch has to have a copy of the following:

A Guide to Transfiguration-Grade 1 by Matilda F., History of Magic Made Simple by Albus W., Charms in a Wand-Grade 1 by Lily H, Potions in a Pot-Grade 1 by Shane G., Magical Nature by Mitchie J., The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Dean M.

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 cauldron (used in Hogwarts, pewter standard size 2), 1 set glass or crystal phials, 1 telescope, 1 set brass scales.

PLEASE NOTE THAT 1ST YEARS AREN’T ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICKS!!!

Students can bring along an owl OR cat OR toad OR Rat OR never going to grow puppies.

Also bring an extra dress for the Christmas Ball.

They headed to Crafty Dressers to buy the uniform. Everyone was staring at Halsey and was greeting her kindly, then, everyone was saying that she is the most famous person on earth. Even Halsey didn’t know she was famous! They then headed to Claws for Good to get the books needed for first years. The two girls headed back home and on August 31st August, after the summer vacations, the term started. Again, on 31st August, they met Greg along with their Aunt Gwen; actually, Greg was their brother.

“Aunt Gwen! Aunt Gwen! Can you please keep Laila with you when I’m at Magicals? She’s a poor little tot without any one to take care of her. She’ll also have Greg’s twins, George and Grace, and his little sister Gabriela to play with.” she told Greg’s mother, Aunt Gwen.

“Of course, darling. Who wouldn’t want to take care of your little sister Laila? You both are just like your parents. Nice and Humble.” Mrs Gwen said.

They continued the conversation when Professor Xellonese arrived.

“Children let me check if all of you have come or not. Zen Heartycare, (there) Wang Hua, (there) Greg Klasfleur, (there) Katherine Neutinut, (there) and Halsey Glitterclouds, (there) Dick Passwater, (there) Flabuous Flournoy (there), Rowan Kanna (there), Ben Clastic(there) and Leo Flick (there). So, all are there for joining Magicals. Let’s go!” Professor Xellonese said.

They walked when Professor Xellonese said something really odd. “Alohomora!” she screamed when a door opened up on its own.

“Oh My God!” Zen exclaimed.

“Professor! I know what this word means! It means open in Latin language.” Halsey exclaimed.

“Good Halsey. Most of our spells are from different language. Like to light up the tip of our wands, we use the word ‘Lumos’. Anyways, lets continue!” Xellonese said.

They continued till they reached a station.

“Professor, I think we’ve reached ‘9 ¾’ in the Magicals Station.” explained Hua.

“Yes Hua, you’re correct. What quick learners you are!” Xellonese said.

She had seven 1st class seats all waiting for them.

The seats sang:

“Dear customers, have your pleasure. Lean and sit. Relax with no pressure. Welcome to train number 365, the days of the year have a quick little dive.” the chairs sang.

“Wow. What a fantastic sight to see. There are live pictures on the window. I never had such comfort in my life! I wish I could live here forever!” gasped Katherine with her mouth in the shape of an O, a really big O.

“Kathie, seriously? What about the movie Moana you saw in Rio Cinemas? Wasn’t that luxurious?” he asked. “You have a very short memory, you know right.”

They all kept on chatting for hours until the finally reached the gates of Magicals. It was the school of Christina Berdania. The school of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

“I’m here, to learn magic and use it when I’m older!” screamed Dick Passwater and Flabuous Flournoy.

“Children, welcome to Magicals! Fugio!” said Xellonese and the gate opened. “You will meet Professor Christina Berdania inside. Just walk the Rainbow Road.”

The children walked and walked till they finally reached the castle of Magicals. What a sight did they see in their eyes. Their eyes could see Professor Berdania waving happily, they could feel their own heartbeat, they could taste Rainbow Iced Tea, the drink they drank in the train, they could smell pale scents of Frickle Flowers, and they could hear slight noises of the school animal, Strongheart, a griffin. At the centre stood a symbol showing four colours, Red and Blue and Yellow and Green. In the middle of the four colours stood a bold big M.

“The students have come Firebeak. Now it’s upon you to choose who goes to what colour house.” Professor Berdania said from inside the MAIN HALL of the castle. She moved to the entrance and said, “Students, welcome. Please move to the MAIN HALL and let Firebeak choose your houses of education.”

The students were directed to the MAIN HALL by 2 school prefects, Diana Claurtail and Max Empfulde. They stood in front of the other students, the ones who joined way before. They were of all kinds of ages, sizes, and houses.

Jack Merrymare was a naughty tot from Portugal and Greece. He was not a normal kid from the world. He was a spoilt kid, of 11 years like Halsey and her friends. Halsey turned out to be the smartest of them all but was the most nervous at that moment of segregation. It was known to be the Segregation Ceremony of Magicals and was a happy point for everyone. They used to be in the house they wanted as Firebeak was a kind little Articuno, known for his wisdom and generosity.

“Dear students, I’m Firebeak and I am the head of the MAIN HALL. Once led by June Crankussy, I am the one now to lead you to your houses. Right now, the best house is Caeruleum, then comes Rubrum, 3rd is Flavus and last is Virens. Now, you have one chance to choose which house you’ll be in. You have 30 seconds. 30…29…28…27…” Firebeak said.

“No.1: Zen Heartycare…Hmmn…he’s easy to choose. Rubrum! No.2: Wang Hua…even easier. Caeruleum! No. 3: Greg Klasfleur…little tricky…Caeruleum! No. 4: Katherine Neutinut…little tuff…I know… Flavus! No. 5: Halsey Glitterclouds…she seems the trickiest…I know her mother… Halsey Glitterclouds…Caeruleum again! No. 6: Jack Merrymare…another naughty little Merrymare…just right for Virens! No. 7: Dick Passwater…just right for Caeruleum! No. 8: Flabuous Flournoy…just like Halsey…I know again… Caeruleum!” Many upcoming witches and wizards were sorted like wise. “Let’s have a round of applause!” Firebeak announced.

Everyone went to the houses they wanted to be in except for Katherine and Jack. Still, everyone had a round of applause. It was a delightful moment for everyone gathered over there. Halsey, Dick, Flabuous, Hua and Greg went to Caeruleum’s table, Zen went to Rubrum’s table, Katherine went to Flavus’s table and Jack went to Virens’s Table. It was time for the school Co-ordinator and Caeruleum’s head professor to speak.

“Dear old and new witches and wizards of Magicals, today is a day to call the new witches and wizards. You all will wear your hats in only the classes D.A.D.A, known as Defence Against the Dark Arts, Potions class and MAIN HALL Feast. Witches and Wizards, our school is with the Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry, so our classes remain the same as well.” Professor Darkhall explained.

After each got their costumes, everyone continued back on their feast when…

“Dear Magicalss’, I would make a short announcement on the school history. Luna Glitterclouds was the one who made all of this possible. Halsey Glitterclouds, if you are willing to, please come to me, Professor Evernue at 12:30 p.m. sharp.” spoke Professor Evernue.

Halsey had tears in her eyes as she heard what Professor Evernue said about the school. “Professor Evernue, I will come, and I promise.”

Chapter II

Dragon Invasion

It was a lot of talking but then it was time the students went to their dormitories. The school prefects, Diana and Max, led them to the dormitories. Each dormitory had a password (I’m writing it here so don’t tell anyone):

Caeruleum: Fiona Fondue

Rubrum: Flora Fondue

Flavus: Nora Fondue

Virens: Steffanina Fondue

Jeddy Duddle, one of the elder wizards, along with Emily Stewart, one the elder witches said, “Fiona Fondue!”.

The door opened. So, this was the password for Caeruleum. Everyone headed inside and already had their names written on their beds. Their beds were actually floating around. At 12 p.m. sharp, Halsey crept out and headed to the MAIN HALL where she expected to find Professor Evernue. And he was there standing. Suddenly, the Trans and Spells Professor, Professor Xellonese popped up.

“Halsey, you are going to get your wand here at this moment. The others’ have already got theirs’ at “Quaffle Alley. Well, we hadn’t written it on the envelope because THE SREDNAVILLOS’ said that your mind was a lot more powerful and the wand would be found here at school.” Professor Xellonese explained.

“Professor, but how would THE SREDNAVILLOS’ know about me and weather I’m a witch or not. How do they know about my mind?” Halsey asked, looking very confused about what was going on.

“See, Professor Trelawney, is the divination professor in a school in London’s magical status, Hogwarts. She predicts the future.” explained Professor Evernue.

They went through spiral staircases, making Halsey feel very dizzy. When Evernue saw that Halsey was about to fall on the stairs, he grabbed her by the hand and shouted, “Recta!”.

Halsey froze but became normal again a few moments later.

“Professor Xellonese, Evernue, have we reached yet?” Halsey was looking a little less dizzy but still, her voice was faint.

“I think so-

“Halsey, welcome to the wand room of Magicals!” Evernue was interrupted by Xellonese.

“Halsey go inside call out ‘Yelling Yrtle’, I’ve come to take my wand so stay out of my way. There was a large gust of wind and a ghost appeared. She was wearing glasses in which the frames were round. The ghost began to sing:

“I’m Yrtle, the poltergeist. Try to catch me, I’ll throw wood on your head. I’m Yrtle, the poltergeist.” Yelling Yrtle began to laugh very loudly and suddenly she disappeared.

“Good, Halsey. Now think of the happiest memory you have had. Then, just wait.” Evernue said.

Right then, Professor Darkhall came. “I saw Halsey’s bed empty, I came rushing.” she explained. “You know, I, being the head of Caeruleum, must ensure that everyone from my house must be safe.”

“Professor, I’m here to get my wand! But can you please stay here for a moment, I’m feeling scared.” Halsey moaned and insisted so much that Professor Darkhall had no option but to stay.

Halsey thought of her happiest memory and suddenly, a gold, sparky, shimmering blue light appeared from her heart and sped inside the Caeruleum’s wand section. Few moments later, it came with a nice wand that was perfect for her. Halsey waved the wand the blue light became brighter.

“Halsey, you’re the strongest witch of the- “she took a breath, paused and spoke, “-world! You got a wand that Cedric Caeruleum had made for the strongest witch or wizard in magic history! Vine wood with a dragon heartstring, 10 ¾” and slightly springy flexibility! You are very famous now, Halsey.” Xellonese explained.

Halsey was overjoyed! “Really? I am so lucky!” she sprouted out, again feeling overjoyed.

Right then, the bell rang. They already had spent half an hour in the wand room. Before Halsey left, Darkhall held Halsey’s hand and Evernue yelled, “Redi!”

Halsey felt knocked-out. Then she heard Caeruleum’s prefect (Sean Lynch) and head girl (Evanna Biggerstaff) screaming, “Wake up everyone! First-Years assemble for Transfiguration. Second-Years assemble for Charms. Third-Years move on to the subjects you have chosen, Muggle Studies or Divination. Fourth-Years move on to Potions. Fifth-Years move on for flying classes. Sixth-Years go for Majix’s visit. And finally, Seventh Years go for Defence Against the Dark Arts Class.”

Next to her was an envelope. It was from the school headmaster, Professor Nullygul. Halsey opened the envelope and there stood a letter.

Dear Halsey Glitterclouds,

Come to me and not for Transfiguration. Go down to the Dungeons and head left to the openings, you’ll find me over there.

Regards,

Professor Nullygul

Halsey felt a little strange and thought there was something fishy going on. But she had to listen to the headmaster so, she carried on. She went through the grand staircase and headed down to the dungeons. She took a left came to an opening. She met Professor Ruchika Nullygull waiting for her. They took another secret passageway and headed up to the grass grounds.

“I see that you completely follow the headmaster’s instructions. You look just like your mother and are. Now, let’s get on to why I called you here. You must know that in our school, we start Quidditch from a young age. I want to see how you play Quidditch. Now grab that broom and kick off the ground, Ms Glitterclouds!” said a voice from the back. There stood a man, not more than 5 feet tall. He was wearing turquoise robes, that looked very expensive. He had wavy blonde hair, not more than 7 centimetres. “Hello, I’m the flying professor and my name is Christopher Thomas. I’ll see your Quidditch skills and decide your position.

Professor Thomas threw a small ball up in the air and Halsey along with her broom stick followed the ball through the whole stadium. The ball was golden in colour and had wings, it was flying super-fast. It was a snitch. In not more than 2 minutes, Halsey caught it.

“I officially grant you the seeker of Caeruleum’s Quidditch team. Right now, let’s go and see Dean Circuitleaf. He’s the captain of our Quidditch team. He’ll teach you Quidditch properly. Remember, you are a seeker.” Nullygul said.

Halsey figured out that Dean was also in Caeruleum and was currently in Potions class. They head to a classroom where it was written: Professor Spukes, Potions Head.

“Excuse me Professor Spukes. May I have Master Circuitleaf for a moment?” Nullygul asked. “Dean, this is Halsey and she will play seeker in our house’s Quidditch team. At noon, please teach her Quidditch.”

“Ma’am, I already know the rules of Quidditch. Greg’s mom explained it to me when I was 4. But I would like to learn the methods again.” Halsey replied.

Halsey headed on through the corridors. It was charms class. “Charms is with Professor Corfield. He is the head of Rubrum as well.” A girl from Virens, named Merula whispered.

“Hello First-Years! I am Professor Corfield, your Magicals Charms teacher. Today, we are going to learn the method of lighting the tip of our wand. The spell is Lumous. Everyone, hold your wand like I am and say Lumos!” Suddenly, the tip of Cornege Corfield’s wand was lighting up.

Halsey shot her wand out and said, “Lumos!” A few people near her were blinded with a yellow shade of light.

“Look everybody, look! Ms Glitterclouds has done. Wonderful Halsey!” Corfield exclaimed. “Halsey, you’ve given out the best light from your wand than any other first year! 10 points to Caeruleum! Congratulations!”

Now that Halsey was done, she had to write a small paragraph on the charm:

The spell Lumos, is one of the basic spells the wizards and witches use.

Type: Charm

Incantation: Lumos

Purpose: To light up dark places in the flick of a wand

Next class was potions. It was with Professor Spukes. He was the head of Flavus.

“Welcome. I can teach you to bewitch the mind and ensnare senses. I can tell you how to bottle fame, brew, and glory and even put a stopper to death. Anyways, who can tell me the word for sea weed in the wizarding world?” He asked.

Halsey raised her hand high up in the air. In muggle school, she used computers for research. Aunt Gwen had got herself a magical computer from the Ministry of Magic (her husband, Uncle James, worked in the Ministry of Magic. In the Department of Mysteries). Halsey did all the research she could in the holidays with Aunt Gwen. She also loved to read books. She had got the answer in Aunt Gwen’s old book of Herbology.

“Professor Spukes, sea weed in the Wizarding World of Ireland is known as Sea Herb.”

“Good. 20 points to Caeruleum. Any ways. What were the three main types of potions for first-years?” He asked, eying Halsey suspiciously.

“Sir, Sea Herb Potion, Frickle Flower Harms and Bubble Cherry Cheer Potion!” Halsey shouted out.

“5 points from Caeruleum for chorus answer and 5 points to Caeruleum for correct answer. At the end of the class, Halsey had got Caeruleum 30 points. Caeruleum was currently 2nd in position, 5 points from Rubrum.

“Halsey, where have you been all charms class?” Greg asked, confused.

“Well I was there!”

“Yeah, but, only at the end.”

“Guess what, Professor Nullygul and Professor Thomas made me seeker of Caeruleum’s Quidditch team!”

“Wow, great- who’s Professor Thomas now?”

“Um…well he’s the flying class professor.”

Greg told all his friends and they started to praise Halsey as well. Halsey then started to blush a lot as well.

No potions class turned out well. No one liked Professor Spukes at all. Including his own house, Flavus. The best class out of all was Transfiguration. Professor Darkhall was the best Professor at the Academy.

During flying class, they only learned to summon a broom, which, turned out to be pretty easy for Halsey. Greg and few of his friends smacked their faces by saying, “Up!”

At flying class, Halsey became friends with Ben and Rowan. Luckily, they too were in Caeruleum. Halsey, Ben and Rowan were best friends and usually stayed close. Halsey figured out that Ben had a dog, so she kept her cat far from his dog. One day, Cookie came harmed from the boys’ general dormitories and then Halsey caught up a big fight with Ben.

“Ben, I must have told you a hundred times to keep your dog away from Cookie!”

“You didn’t! And by the way, I must have told you a hundred times to keep your cat in the girls’ dormitory.”

“She is a cat and your dog are an idiot. Send him back home! I don’t want Cookie harmed!”

“Droon is not an idiot! He’s way better than your stupid cat!”

“Cookie is not stupid!”

“Well then hope you never talk to me again. You and your cat are the worst creatures in the world!”

“Fine! Guess I never see Droon the doggie pooper! And I’m not the worst. I guess you can call Merula the worst.”

Days passed on and it had been a week since Halsey had not talked to Ben. Every grand feast, Halsey would stay in the girl’s bathroom crying. She called herself an idiot, mad and other stuff that made her cry more and more.

It was Halloween and Halsey finally turned up. Ben thought it was a time to apologise. However, when Halsey saw Ben, she ran back into the girl’s washroom.

Five minutes later, Halsey heard a loud roar. She screamed really loudly and the people at the grand feast heard her scream and roar too. Professor Darkhall, Professor McKnight (Defence Against the Dark Arts Teacher), Professor Nullygul and Professor Clutterbuck came rushing down. Rowan used floo-powder and reached the girl’s washroom before the professors.

She ran into the girl’s washroom, frightened by the dragon. She then shouted, “Petrificus Totalus!” The dragon froze and then Halsey took a nearby sharp object and pierced it through the dragon’s chest, right in the heart.

The professors rushed in to their amazement. “Rowan, Halsey, what are you doing here!?” shouted Professor Clutterbuck.

“Ma’am, I was just sad about the fight me and Ben caught up a week ago. I had no other place to cry about its Professor. If Rowan hadn’t come, I wouldn’t have been here now.”

“Rowan, 2 points from Caeruleum for unsafe actions, but, 12 points for bravery and friendship. Now, head back to your dormitories. Go now!”

Chapter III

Divination Begins

Halsey, along with Rowan, headed back to Caeruleum’s common room to visit Ben. They found Ben sitting in the corner, sighing and hiding his tears.

“Ben, I’m sorry I called Droon and idiot and doggie pooper. I’m really sorry.”

Ben seemed convinced and then spoke back, “I’m sorry too for calling Cookie stupid and you and Cookie the worst creatures in the world.”

They hugged.

“Um…so, good night. See you tomorrow in Transfiguration with Professor Darkhall.

Next morning, Halsey crashed into Ben right after entering Transfiguration class.

“Hey, Ben! Ready for Transfiguration? Professor Darkhall told us we are going to make friendly flowers out of Crystal Frogs. However, we got a problem. Transfiguration is with Virens.”

“Yeah, great! Nevertheless, I am just so off with Merula Synde. She is a Fuβballschläger.” Ben replied.

“What do you mean by?” Rowan asked.

“Football bat in German. Another way to call someone stupid in German.” Ben said.

“You are from Germany, Ben?” Halsey asked.

“Half. My mom is from Germany, but my dad is from Ireland.”

“Wow!”

“Halsey, Ben, let’s go! We’re really getting late for Transfiguration class. You know, Professor Darkhall is kind of strict!”

They went on and into the seats of the first-row batch. They already had crystal toads in front of them, ready to be transfigured. Merula Synde was sitting right in front of them, grinning wickedly.

“Students, today we are going to make friendly flowers out of crystal frogs. Here is the technique.” The watched her wave her wand once and then tap the crystal frog thrice.

Halsey tried, and her crystal frog immediately turned into friendly flowers. Meanwhile, Ben and Rowan’s work turned out well as.

Now, the three’s eyes were focused on Ms Synde. Merula squashed her frogs twice and was on the third one.

“Your filthy crystal toad now turn into a friendly flower.

Merula waved and taped thrice but turned herself into a slug. She was holding her wand backwards, without realizing anything.

Professor Darkhall rushed towards her and did something with her wand. To their surprise, Merula turned back into herself again.

“Professor, being a slug stinks!”

“Merula, you were holding your wand the other way around. You broke rule no. 5 in the house of Virens! Detention for you!”

Class was over, so they headed on to Defence Against the Dark Arts with Professor McKnight.

“Welcome class. I, Professor Jack McKnight, will teach you to defeat a Boggart. Now, can anyone tell me what a boggart is and what does it look like?”

“Professor, a boggart is the fear of a person. You cannot determine its look because every person has a different fear and the boggart takes the form of a person’s fear.”

“Halsey, you are from Caeruleum?”

“Yes Professor McKnight.”

“You can take away 30 points. Here is a dark cupboard and the boggart is inside it. I want each of you to come in front, say Alohomora and when the boggart comes a little close to you, shout ‘Riddikulus!’ Come Halsey, I want you first in line.”

Halsey stepped forward and shouted, “Alohomora!”

The cupboard door opened and Professor Darkhall came ahead and spoke, “Halsey! You failed your exams! You are expelled from Magicals! Now pack and get going on!”

Halsey shattered a little and then, with a little voice shouted, “Riddikulus!”

Professor Darkhall then smiled and spoke again, “Congratulations Halsey! You passed your exams! I want you to receive a bouquet of flowers from the headmaster. Now come on, go and get your award!”

Halsey smiled. She just relaxed a little when Professor McKnight shouted, “Seamus, your turn!”

“Seamus ran ahead. Professor Darkhall immediately turned into a large auragog. He shouted, “Riddikulus!”

The auragog started to slip and danced continuously. Everyone laughed a lot. “Good Mr Lignose! Now Greg, come ahead!”

Greg came ahead and the auragog turned into a large snake. (Greg shouted, “Riddikulus!”) The snake started to do gymnastics by doing back and front flips.

Professor McKnight rushed ahead, and the boggart changed into a large ruby. He whispered something, and the ruby was sucked into his wand.

He closed the cupboard, inserted his wand into a small hole, and whispered something again.

“Class please disperse. Go on for Divination with Professor Poterotter.”

Divination was way down in the dungeons, first class from the staircase. They were going to do an introduction to the subject.

“Welcome children to your first divination class. In divination, we predict the future, seek the past and explain the present I have written the notes so, please copy them down. After copying the notes, you will come to me with a free-fall pot from there.” Said Professor Poterotter.

He pointed at a shelf where many pots were stacked together in a line, 2 in a column.

Halsey was a fast writer. She took out her quill and a plain parchment. Within 5 minutes, she completed the big essay with tips, points and explanations.

She rushed towards the free-fall pots, grabbed one and rushed towards Professor Poterotter.

“Ah! I see you have finished fast. Halsey, you are a fast writer?” he asked.

“Yes I am a fast writer.”

“Good handwriting. 10 points to Caeruleum. Anyways, take this muddy water and this hot plate. I want you to put this muddy water inside the pot and then put the pot on the hot plate. Then, tell me if you see something. Now, go back to your place.”

Halsey took the pot and headed back to her place. She did as she was told and soon, the pot started to melt and became a blob of mud. She saw lot of weird stuff.

“Professor, I see my mom and dad, unicorns, mermaids, dragons and someone cutting my skin.”

Professor Poterotter rushed ahead and saw the same things as Halsey.

“Halsey, you are the best first-year student in divination. 50 points to Caeruleum!”

Halsey blushed again.

Right that moment, the bell rang, and the students rushed outside. Halsey felt a little dizzy after divination class. She went to her dormitory, took out her quill and parchment and started writing a letter to her sister Laila.

Dear Laila,

Please tell Aunt Gwen I saw strange things, including someone cutting my skin, and then I became dizzy. Ask her what I should do and send a letter using Lorre. I also am having strange dreams since last Friday. I kept on seeing someone cutting my skin with snake teeth.

With Love,

From Halsey

She folded the letter and then tied it to Lorre, her owl. She opened the window and Lorre flew. She kept on starring at Lorre until he was no longer seen. Rowan then ran inside, calling out Halsey’s name until she could find her. She saw Halsey starring out of the window.

“Halsey, what are you doing here?” Rowan howled.

“I just felt a little weird after divination. I felt dizzy. I decided to write a letter to Aunt Gwen and Laila.”

“Wait, who is Aunt Gwen now?”

“She’s Greg’s mom. Greg is my cousin.”

“You mean the irritating ink pot?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay, this is really weird. Any ways come for supper. Ben and Dean want to talk to you. Professor Clutterbuck, the Care for Magical Creatures professor, told me to call you down.”

“Rowan, do you know anything about Parseltongue?”

“I know only bit. Now, come for supper!”

They headed rushing down, without stopping a bit and saw Ben and Dean starring at the Grand Hall entrance.

“Halsey, do you know that Dean wants to talk to you about Quidditch practice?”

“No.”

“Well he is over there. You can sit in front of him and he’ll explain everything to you.” Halsey left Rowan and Ben and went to Dean.

“Hey, Halsey! Well, here is our Quidditch team. In the place of the chasers are Olivia Howard, Leo Holt and Ross Cline. For the beaters are Eliza Crown and I. Addison Greenwich is our keeper. You are our team’s seeker.”

Olivia, Leo, Ross, Eliza and Addison were just sitting around Halsey and Dean. They were smiling because they liked Halsey a lot. Right at that moment, Dean began to speak again.

“Halsey, I want you to come outdoors from the passageway Nullygul took you on Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 am for Quidditch practice. Why don’t you eat with us today? I can explain you the rules of Quidditch again.”

“Yeah, great idea! Just save my place here. I’ll be back in a minute.”

She rushed over to Ben and Rowan to tell them about it.

“Ben and Rowan, I am actually sitting with my Quidditch team today because they need to explain the rules of Quidditch to me. Is that alright?”

“That will be really helpful for you. It’s okay. Ben and I will be just sitting here together.”

“It is only for a day. Don’t worry.”

“Thanks. I am really happy you guys understand.”

She rushed back and sat.

“So Halsey, there are 3 types of balls in Quidditch: a Quaffle, a Bludger and a Golden Snitch.” Leo said. He too, was a first year from Caeruleum.

“The chasers throw the Quaffle around and score by throwing through the hoops.”

Eliza took out a paper from her pocket and drew a picture of the Magicals Quidditch stadium.

“The keeper blocks the other team from scoring goals through the hoops.” Olivia was really looking forward to explain that.

“The beaters throw the Bludger at the other team’s players and also keep the Bludger away from their team’s players.” He drew a ball and a person being knocked off their broom.

“And I being the seeker-

“Have to worry about finding the Golden Snitch before the other team’s seeker does.” Addison said, interrupting Halsey.

“The chasers, the beaters, a keeper and seeker. A Quaffle, a Bludger and a Golden Snitch.” Halsey said, making sure she remembered everything.

“Yep. I’m sure you got it now.” Dean said. He was a thin, skinny, sixth year.

None of them had started eating their food and the dessert was about to come.

“Let’s get eating. Come on, quickly!” Addison said, stuffing her mouth with spaghetti.

They all stuffed their mouth and within 5 minutes they were done eating.

Professor Clutterbuck snipped his hands and the golden (Caeruleum), silver (Rubrum), bronze (Virens), and steel (Flavus) plates vanished.

He snipped his hands again and the plates reappeared, this time filled with delicious desserts of chocolate brownie with ice cream.

Everyone except Merula looked happy to eat the dessert. She stomped of, kicking few of the Flavus and Virens, and then grinning on what she did.

Chapter IV

Quidditch Interview

The next day was Friday and Halsey’s first lesson was Care for Magical Creatures with Professor Clutterbuck. The day before at night, Ben, Rowan and Halsey became best friends with Leo. The 4 headed down to the grounds to meet Professor Clutterbuck.

He was waiting, with colourful birds of dark blood red, dark orange and bright yellow.

“Hello, everyone! Welcome to your first Care of Magical Creatures class. Today, we will be studying phoenixes. Can anybody tell me what phoenixes are?”

Halsey raised her hand high up.

“Yes, Ms Glitterclouds?”

“Professor, a phoenix is a long-lived bird that cyclically regenerates or is otherwise born again. Associated with the Sun, a phoenix obtains new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor.”

“Good. 10 points to Caeruleum. Now, who can tell me for how many years a phoenix lives?”

“Professor may I answer?”

“Yes Halsey?”

“Professor 5-6 years. Later, it burns up into a flame and is reborn like a chick.”

“Last question. What are the tears of a phoenix fatal to and what can the tears do?”

Halsey raised her hand again.

“Okay.”

“Professor, the tears of a phoenix are fatal to the black unicorn and the tears can also heal any wound in seconds.”

“Good answer. 20 points to Caeruleum. Have you brought your quills and parchments? Please note these points down now!”

Halsey, being a fast writer, completed in 5 minutes, as she knew almost everything about phoenixes.

“Professor I’m done writing.”

“Good. Now, can you tell me which one of these phoenixes will reborn in a short time?”

Halsey pointed at a dull, sick, pale looking phoenix.

“Professor, this phoenix is about to reborn in a short time because it looks dull, sick and pale.”

“10 points to Caeruleum.”

After Care for Magical Creatures class, Halsey, Ben, Leo and Rowan headed for breakfast. There was omelette, toast, fruits and pudding. Halsey hated toast and omelette so; she only took fruits and pudding. Then, from the top of the hall, Halsey saw Lorre coming back with some potion and a letter. She opened it and saw it was from Aunt Gwen.

Dear Halsey,

I got your letter and became a little worried. However, don’t worry. I sent a small bottle of Raspberry potion with this note with Lorre. Drink it. I hope it will make you feel better.

With Care,

From Aunt Gwen

Halsey drank a little but spat it out right on Leo’s face.

“Oooh, Halsey. Watch it. You spat on my face!”

“Sorry Leo.” She felt embarrassed. “I’m really very sorry. Here take this. It is a Pull Sweat Face Napkin. Just put it on your face and leave it for 8 seconds.”

Leo did the same and removed the napkin from his face. All the juice was gone.

“Thanks Halsey. It really cleaned my face perfectly.”

“Oh, yeah.”

Halsey drank a little more and then drank water immediately. It tasted like honey.

“Wow, this tastes good with water!”

They headed on for their other classes and everything was boring except for Charms. They were learning to cast the levitation charm.

“Hello everyone. As you can see, I have placed feathers around the benches. Please take a seat near one. Today, we will learn to do the Levitation Charm. One of the wizard’s most extraordinary skills is to levitate an object. Here is how it goes. Swish and flick, Wigardium Leviosa!”

“Professor, may I ask a question?” asked a little boy, from Flavus. Halsey hadn’t even noticed that they were having class with Flavus.

“Yes, Fruze?”

“Can this charm levitate people?”

“Aaah, depends boy, depends.”

Right then, 2 people burst in.

One of them was a woman. She was wearing a pencil skirt of bright yellow with shapes in green colour. Her shirt looked really awful because of the muddy prints all over.

There were two others, men. He wore dark jeans, a bright red t-shirt and bright turquoise robes. He was holding a large camera. His hair was about 5 inches long, tied into a small pony tail. His hair was bright emerald.

“I hope Halsey and Leo are here?” The thin, pointy-nosed lady asked.

“Yes, Fanetta Backshot. They indeed are.” Replied Professor Corfield.

“May I have a word with her?”

“Halsey, go on.” He pointed at Halsey with his sparkly eyes. “But make it quick.” His eyes were back on the woman that Halsey thought was Fanetta Backshot.

Halsey kept thinking as they went down the stairs and through many corridors.

Was Halsey in trouble? Was she going to be expelled? Was she going to be taken towards death? Was she going to taken into a locked room?

Halsey could answer the last question few moments later. She was taken into a large room where a chilly wind blew. In minutes, the rest of the Caeruleum Quidditch Team arrived.

“Hello everyone. I’m Fanetta Backshot, reporter of the Wizarding World’s Ireland newspaper, Into Ireland. Now lent me all your names.”

The other man immediately got a parchment and quill, kept it on floating air and took out his wand, shooting out a small blue jet of light towards the quill which copied the movements of the wand.

“I’m Olivia Howard.” Said a girl Halsey first saw on supper yesterday in the hall.

“I am Leo Holt.” Leo said, looking happy. He shot a grin towards Halsey.

“Ross Cline is my name.” Another boy said, probably in Dean’s year.

“I am Eliza Crown and she’s my best friend, Addison Greenwich.” Eliza said, hiccupping.

Halsey noticed that the quill began to write everyone’s name. Her thoughts were interrupted by Dean.

“I’m Dean Circuitleaf.” Dean said.

“Well, Ms Glitterclouds, I know your name. No need of telling me. Tell me your positions now.”

“Olivia, Leo and Ross are chasers. Eliza and me, Dean, are beaters. Addison is our team’s keeper and Halsey is our team’s seeker.” Dean explained. “And I’m our team’s captain.”

“Great! Now, tell me the way you feel being in the team.”

“I, being the captain,” Dean said, “have been a captain since my third year at Magicals. It has been a wonderful experience.” Dean smiled and began to speak again. “It feels nice to fly around your brooms, catch Bludgers and throw them at people. All I can say about it is absolutely amazing, wonderful and great.”

The quill kept noting down all the points.

“I would like to say the same as Dean,” Eliza said starring at Backshot, “as I too am a beater.”

The quill continued. Halsey noticed that when Dean and Eliza were speaking, Olivia, Leo and Ross were whispering.

“I would like to speak for all the chasers, me, Leo and Olivia. Leo has nothing much as it’s his first time, but he surely does imagine.” Ross said, smiling just like Dean. “We like to throw balls around, by balls you can say the Quaffle. Get them through hoops by passing. Well, there is nothing left to point out. Addison, continue.”

Addison immediately began to speak. “Being a keeper can be very dizzy because you fly around a lot, going around and round, but it sure helps the team a lot.”

“Well Halsey, your turn comes now.” Fanetta said.

“Oh, yeah. Well, just like Leo I haven’t had any experience, but I think I will have a good experience on the pitch.”

“Thank you a…,”

“Thanks a lot as well for taking our interview. We’ll be sure to check out Into Ireland.”

“Goodbye!”

When Halsey checked the clock, charms class was over. But she still headed to Professor Corfield’s office.

“Professor, may I come in.”

“Yes, Ms Glitterclouds.”

“May I try out the charm you taught today?”

“Oh! Yes! Sure.”

“Okay…Swish and flick.”

Her wand was pointed to wards a small, thin book. “Swish and Flick. Wigardium Leviosa!”

The book lay floating up. She moved her wand and the book followed its directions of motion.

“Good Job, Halsey! You were one of the only! Ten points to Caeruleum!”

“Thank you, professor.”

She headed towards to hall, smelling delicious food items. There was an empty space in front of Rowan, so Halsey sat there.

“Where have you two been?” Ben and Rowan asked, together at the same time.

“In an interview of our Quidditch team with Fanetta Backshot.” Leo and Halsey said, together at the same time.

“Well, look! There’s Ms Glitterclouds! There’s an article about her Quidditch team.” Halsey looked to see who it was.

“A girl from Merula’s gang.” Ben scowled.

“Just ignore her, Halsey.” Rowan said in irritated tone.

“5 sickles for a copy.” The girl shouted again.

Halsey rushed over and bought a copy.

Magicals’s Best Quidditch Team

One of Ireland’s best Witchcraft and Wizarding school, Magicals has got a great gang to play against the others in Quidditch. Olivia, Leo, Ross, Eliza, Addison, Dean and Halsey are ready for December’s Quidditch Match, a week before Christmas. Will Halsey catch the Golden Snitch and make Caeruleum win or will they be defeated by Rubrum?

“I, being the captain have been a captain since my third year at Magicals. It has been a wonderful experience. It feels nice to fly around your brooms, catch Bludgers and throw them at people. All I can say about it is absolutely amazing, wonderful and great.” Dean, the captain said along with Eliza, the second beater.

“I would like to speak for all the chasers, me, Leo and Olivia. Leo has nothing much as it’s his first time, but he surely does imagine. We like to throw balls around, by balls you can say the Quaffle. Get them through hoops by passing. Well, there is nothing left to point out.” Ross said.

“Being a keeper can be very dizzy because you fly around a lot, going around and round, but it sure helps the team a lot.” Addison said.

“Well, just like Leo I haven’t had any experience, but I think I will have a good experience on the pitch.” Halsey, the team’s seeker says.

“Great reviews Halsey!” Ben said. “Great reviews Leo as well!”

Halsey and Leo shared the same look of a large smile. After supper they headed back into their dormitory.

“Hey Leo, we have to go for Quidditch practice tomorrow.”

“Yeah, I know.”

Chapter V

Caeruleum vs Rubrum

Next day, Halsey and Leo headed to the grounds with the secret passageway. Over there, the rest of the team was already waiting there.

“Today we’ll practice Quidditch using fly balls.” Dean said.

“What are fly balls?” Leo asked.

“Weren’t you paying attention in Defence Against the Dark Arts class, 3 weeks ago.” Halsey asked.

“No.”

“They are balls that fly around. They are small, they knock people of and if you catch them and hold them for 5 seconds, they don’t fly around for 25 seconds.” She said. “They are like the combination of quaffles, bludgers and the golden snitch.”

They practised for an hour and then headed back inside for breakfast.

“Look, its Lorre, carrying something huge!” Halsey said at breakfast.

There was a note sticking outside. “It’s from Aunt Gwen!”

Dear Halsey,

Greg sent me a letter regarding your position of being the seeker in Caeruleum’s Quidditch Team. I bought a present for you for your skills and a cong-ratulation from the Evans family. We got you an AIRSPEED broom! It’s one of the fastest brooms in the world. Don’t open it on the table, everyone will adore it.

With Trust,

Aunt Gwen

Halsey quickly kept it under her table and finished eating. With Leo, Rowan and Ben, she went to Caeruleum’s common room and opened the package.

“Wow!” Ben and Leo exclaimed.

“It’s amazing!” Rowan said excitedly.

Days went by. Halsey kept having her classes (potions was obviously boring). She kept practising Quidditch, now with the real Quidditch balls. Until one day, it was two days to their first House Quidditch Match.

“Halsey, are you sure you got enough practise for Quidditch?” Ben kept asking her. “Leo, you too?”

“Ben, stop bothering us. We’ll be alright at the match. Anyways, we got 2 more times to practice.” Leo kept saying.

“Halsey, good luck.” Rowan used to say, and Halsey used to smile back.

At charms, they were finally going to learn a duelling spell.

“Class, today we will learn a duelling spell. It is called the Tickling Charm. You say Rictumsempra!”

Halsey purposely pointed at Merula and shouted, “Rictumsempra!”

Merula started to giggle immediately. Then the whole class, even her gang, started to giggle. It was crazy.

“Quiet! Quiet! Class, Quiet!” Corfield shouted.

In Magicals: A Magical History, they were learning about the founders of Magicals. Cranes sounded interesting.

“As you may know, there were 4 founders of Magicals, Cedric Caeruleum, Rosetta Rubrum, Vanessa Virens and Finnegan Flavus. The each possessed a powerful weapon. Cedric possessed The Destined Ring of the Sapphire, Rosetta possessed The Desired Staff of the Ruby, Vanessa possessed The Secret Scar of the Emerald and Finnegan possessed The Unbreakable Heart of the Topaz.” He said.

“Professor, what do you mean by Virens possessed the Secret Scar of the Emerald?”

“Good question, Fabien.”

Fabien was a boy from Rubrum who was very short. He looked as if he was 11 years.

“Vanessa, while fighting a battle, had got a scar from the most powerful wizard in history 3,000 years ago. Every time there was no danger, the scar use to light an emerald underneath. She made it her horcrux until one, day, she was killed by a muggle. A very sad story.” He answered.

Quidditch practice was the only thing Halsey loved apart from Transfiguration, Magicals: A Magical History and Charms. She hated potions.

2 days went by and there was only a night left for the Quidditch match.

“Halsey, you are going to lose! Ha!” Yrtle, the poltergeist kept on screaming in Halsey’s ear each time she saw her in the corridors.

“Oh, shut up.” She replied.

She got a mouthful of food for tomorrow’s match and she enjoyed with her friends.

“Halsey and Leo good luck!” Ben said in the night as an owl went flying to him.

“I’m sure you are going to beat them up!” Rowan exclaimed.

“What?” Ben scowled.

“What, what?” Leo asked.

“Mum sent me dance, party robes that look great.”

“Oh! Haven’t you seen this year’s shopping list. It was clearly written by a pair of extra dress for-

“For what?”

“Me, Rowan and Halsey had brought them for the Christmas ball. We have it 2 years after every leap year.”

They headed back to their dormitories and Halsey slept early, at 9 o’clock.

“Halsey get up! You must get ready. Fast!” Rowan had jumped on Halsey and was screaming at her face.

“Yeah, alright.” In 10 minutes, she was ready. She grabbed her Airspeed broom and went outside.

Professor Thomas, their flying teacher was doing the comparing for the match.

“It’s another Quidditch Match and Magicals and this time, its Caeruleum vs Rubrum. On the blow of the whistle, you will mount your brooms. 1, 2, 3!” He blew the whistle hardly and they mount their brooms.

Halsey kept going around the pitch searching for the Golden Snitch. She went down, up and around and round but couldn’t find the Snitch. She saw Olivia throwing the Quaffle into the hoops.

“Caeruleum has scored a point! 10 to 0!” The crowd cheered. “Another goal! 20 to 0!” The crowd cheered again.

Halsey then saw something fluttering down. It looked Golden.

“40 to 10! 60 to 10! 90 to 30!” The crowd kept on cheering.

Right then, Halsey felt something wriggle in her mouth. She opened her mouth, put her hand inside and she had caught the Golden Snitch!

“We officially announce that Caeruleum has won against Rubrum for 160 points. 240 to 80! A good job to Halsey Glitterclouds!”

She was flying around merrily when 2 bludgers hit her 2 arms. She knocked down, caught her Airspeed and was dragged down.

When she woke up, Madame Gazelle, the school nurse was sitting beside Halsey. There was a table full of chocolates and cards and boxes. In front of her was her Quidditch team, Leo, Olivia, Ross, Eliza, Addison, Dean and her other 2 friends, Rowan and Ben.

“Halsey congratulations! You made Caeruleum win!” Addison exclaimed.

“You caught the Golden Snitch!” Ross and Olivia said.

“You haven’t woken up for 3 days!” Eliza said.

“Good Job!” Dean announced.

“Yeah.” Rowan and Ben muttered. “You took all our lines.”

They laughed. Halsey shared smile.

“Halsey just try moving your arm. I hope the potion works.” Madame Gazelle said.

She moved her arm. No pain was there.

“It’s perfectly fine, Madame Gazelle.” Halsey said.

“Oh! That’s good. Professor Spukes helped a little at making it.”

She headed back to her dormitory and saw her things packed properly. Her Airspeed was not damaged at all. “Who’s been doing all this. Packing my stuff and cleaning my bed?” She asked Rowan. “And why is my dress out?”

“Halsey, todays the Christmas Ball! Who’s your partner? I’m going with Ben.”

“Has Leo got a partner yet?”

“No.”

“I’ll ask him.”

She went downstairs to the Caeruleum common room and Leo was sitting there, alone.

“Hey Leo!”

“Hi.”

“Will you go to the ball with me?”

“Are you serious, Halsey?”

“Yeah.”

“Ok. Great.”

“Get ready quickly. The ball is in an hour.”

“Yeah, sure.”

Halsey was in her dormitory, making a bun and kept little hair to the front. No one was there waiting, she was the only one. She wore a nice, turquoise, dark pink, red and purple gown. She went rushing to the great hall. When she came, she was the centre of attention.

“Wow! Doesn’t she look beautiful?” Akala, an Indian student (girl) said, starring at her

Chapter VI

The Ball & Leo’s Tragedy

Leo was waiting down, with his hand ready when Professor Darkhall went rushing towards Halsey.

“Halsey, Quidditch players of all the teams, I mean captain and the seekers have to start the dance.”

“Oh, sure!”

“Have you got a partner?”

“Yes, Leo Holt. He’s in the Quidditch team too!”

“Okay, great.”

She walked towards Leo and joined him.

“You look gorgeous today!”

“Thanks!”

“Leo, the Quidditch teams’ seekers and captains have to start the dance.”

“What?”

“Just dance.”

The ball was about to begin. Halsey and Dean were in the first line as they won the Quidditch match while the others were behind. Dean was dancing with Violet James.

“Introducing the captain and seeker of Caeruleum, Dean Circuitleaf and Halsey Glitterclouds.” Everyone clapped.

“Here comes captain and seeker of Rubrum, Elvis Clutt and Amanda Lynn.” The crowd clapped once again.

“Captain of Virens, Anne Teak. And seeker of Virens, Merula Synde!”

“What?” Leo howled.

“I don’t know Halsey replied.”

“Captain and seeker of Flavus, Draco Kullt and Katherine Neutinut.”

The crowd clapped again.

“And coming are the Fantasy Rockers!”

The crowd cheered even more this time.

“Leo, hold my hand. Fast!” Halsey shouted.

“What? Oh, yeah.” He said.

The music was first slow. Halsey could see the rest of the Quidditch team coming with their partners onto the stage. She could see Rowan and Ben coming together as well.

After a couple of minutes, the slow music became rock.

“You’re the beat of my heart…” The vocalist sang.

Half an hour later, the ball was over. They found an empty table on the side and sat down. Akala Chowdhury came rushing towards them. “Halsey, you look beautiful today!”

“Thanks. But who are you and how do you know my name?”

“Oh! I’m Akala and I read about you in a book.”

“I’m in a book?”

“Yes! You are in this book.” She pulled out a fat, small book.

“5 of the Greatest Wizard Families in 2018.” Halsey read.

“And your family was ranked number 2!” Akala said.

“I never knew that myself. I only saw my parents once when I was 2 days from 3.” Halsey answered.

“What’s your birthday?” Akala asked.

“22nd May 2005. I’m 13.” Halsey replied.

“What? I’m born on 23rd May!” Akala said. “What house and which year?”

“Caeruleum. I’m a first year!”

An owl suddenly came flying towards Leo.

“Oh no!” Leo said.

“What happened?” Halsey and Rowan asked.

“Mum sent me-

“A howler!” Ben exclaimed. “You better open other wise something terrible is going to happen.”

Akala had gone.

Merula passed by them and laughed. “Look everybody! Leo’s got a howler!” she sneered.

“Oh, shut up Fuβballschläger.” Ben sniggered.

“Leo Holt! What is wrong with you? Professor Spukes sent me a letter saying you don’t know a single potion by heart! No welcome snack in the winter two days later!” Her voice became calm. “And Halsey dear, I got the news that you went with Leo to the Christmas Ball. How was he? Send me a letter.” She blew at Leo hard and tore into pieces, the paper.

Some laughed. Halsey caught Ben, Rowan and Leo’s hand and headed upstairs to Caeruleum’s common room.

“What’s a howler?” Rowan asked.

“It’s a letter that usually brings a scolding around to other people.” Halsey said. “And what’s your mother’s name, Leo?”

Halsey looked at the place where Leo wasn’t there.

“Where’s Leo? He was sitting right here.” Halsey asked her friends.

“Ben, check in the boys’ dormitory.” Rowan ordered Ben.

In 2 minutes, he was back.

“Rowan, Halsey, he isn’t there.” Ben said.

“Let’s head to Professor Darkhall.” Halsey suggested.

She was there in her office, next to Caeruleum’s common room.

“Professor Darkhall, Leo’s missing.” Ben announced.

“What?” Professor Darkhall looked confused.

“He was with us and then the next moment we turned to ask him something he was gone.”

“Ben, Rowan and Halsey, I survived.” They turned to look who it was.

“Leo!” The 3 exclaimed.

“Children, nothing happened. Now go.” Darkhall said.

The 4 walked back to their common room.

“Password?” a hidden voice asked.

“Tickle Leaf.” Halsey said. The password had been changed.

They walked inside and sat on the sofa.

“Leo, what were you talking about?”

“Nightmare Ghosts. They come towards you and put you in their old dreams when they were alive. They force and tickle you to answer their questions.”

“How did you survive?”

“I know an enchanted word that drives the ghosts away. It only works few times. The word is Timboo.”

“What do you mean by Timboo?”

“It means Blood in their language.”

“Strange. Why are they scared of Blood?”

“They were killed because they drank blood.”

Chapter VII

The Disappearances

Halsey went to sleep feeling a little strange. She had a strange dream. It was a grey, shadow figure that was holding a girl’s neck.

“Tell me girl, where will I find the sword of destiny?” the figure asked.

“I don’t know!” cried the girl.

“Liar!”

“Let me go, please!”

“You hid it and you have to tell me where!”

“But I don’t know!”

“Daughter, stop lying and tell me.”

“I don’t know, and you are the worst father!”

“Do you want to be dead or should I plot Halsey’s death.”

“Not my child!”

“Well that’s what I’m going to do!”

“Timboo! Timboo!”

“Aaaah!”

“Halsey wake up! You’ll be late for potions!”

Halsey suddenly woke up.

“Rowan, the dream!” She shouted.

“What dream?” Rowan grumbled.

“My mother, the nightmare ghosts took her!”

“What?”

“They were asking her for the Sword of Destiny.”

“But the sword was diminished years ago.”

“I know but how?”

“Halsey just forget it and come for potions. We got double-potions today.”

Halsey finally forgot it and was happy most of the time. It all ended when Magicals: A Magical History started.

“Class, today we will learn about the power of the 4 founders of Magicals. They together joined their powers and made what you call the Sword of Destiny.”

“Halsey don’t you-

“I don’t know. I think I need to go to the hosp-

And she fainted. Ben and Leo lifted her and took her to the hospital wing.

“Halsey, are you okay?” Madame Gazelle asked just after Halsey opened her eyes.

“Oh no! No! Nothing is okay! I think I need to visit Professor Nullygul.” She said.

She was assorted to Professor Nullygul’ s office and she heard Professor Cranes whispering, “Chocolate frogs!”

The door opened. Professor Cranes leaved Halsey and Professor Nullygul alone in the office to talk in personal.

“So, what did you see in that dream Halsey?”

“Um.”

“Don’t be shy.”

“I saw my mother.”

Halsey saw her twinkling eyes screaming in pain.

“A nightmare ghost was holding her throat and was asking her for the Sword of Destiny.” She gulped.

“Is your mother the daughter of the Great Armando?”

“Probably. But who’s he?”

“That means you are the granddaughter of Armando Antarius.”

“Who’s he?”

“He’s the last one to possess the Sword of Destiny. He killed Lord Brozekyx Grayback, the most evil, cunning person 398 years ago.”

“Are you sure you made the correct calculations?”

“Eh, yeah.”

“Okay, continue, professor.”

“That means you are the Chosen One!”

“Of what?”

“You are the Chosen One, the only one who can find the Sword of Destiny and bring what shouldn’t have been dead, by the sword, back alive.” She said boldly.

“I can bring my grandpa back alive?”

“Yes, you can. The sword can do now harm to you. Now go down to the hall for supper. We took time.”

She went back down and saw Ben, Leo and Rowan waiting for her. She couldn’t wait to spill everything out to her friends.”

“What took you so long?” Ben asked.

“You luckily missed potions.” Rowan howled.

“Friends calm down. She’s not well.” Leo explained.

“Professor Nullygul told me something very interesting.” Halsey told them.

“What?” they each asked.

“I am the Chosen One.”

“Of what?”

“To find the Sword of Destiny and bring the good dead back alive.”

“But how?”

“I’ll find it and it will probably show me what to do.”

“Great thinking.”

“You can learn how to become an Animagus.”

“You mean transform into animals?”

“Yeah.”

“But, Ben, you will need permission to check the restricted section of books.”

“Rowan, Halsey will take permission from Professor Cranes. He doesn’t even check what he’s signing. Ben’s right.”

“Wait friends, I think Aunt Gwen has a book on human transformations. I can borrow it, make the potion and become an Animagus. You know, the Irish style.”

“Great idea.” Rowan took out a parchment, a quill and an envelope. “Go on, write.”

Halsey wrote whatever came to her mind:

Dear Aunt Gwen,

I need to borrow your book of human transformations. Please lend it over with Lorre and Greg’s owl, Drowl.

With Care,

Halsey

She and her friends headed into the common room and found Lorre perching nicely on his stand. She took out a thread and tied a letter to Lorre. He flew out of the window, high in the purple-black sky.

At next morning’s breakfast, Professor Spukes ran inside. “Zen’s missing. He’s not found everywhere!”

“Students, back to your dormitories!” Professor Nullygul announced. “Prefects, lead them back.”

There was another announcement. “I officially say that 4 Flavus students are missing too. House professors, accompany your students.”

The students tried to get inside as soon as possible.

“To forget about this, let’s play a game of cards.” Leo said sadly. Zen was one of his best friends in the society.

“What…play pie?” Rowan asked.

“No, Ro. Play cards.” Ben answered.

They played cards and did magic tricks till they were sleepy and then went to their beds.

Halsey had a different dream this time. It was again a nightmare ghost clutching a neck but not her mother’s, her neck.

“Halsey, aren’t you the Chosen One?”

“Yes, but why?”

“You know where the Sword of Destiny is.”

“No, I don’t!”

“Yes-

“Timboo!”

“Aaah!”

She woke up again to find an owl flying towards her as the clock struck 8 in the morning.

Lorre and Drowl were completely exhausted so Halsey gave them an extra treat.

“Rowan, wake up!” Halsey said.

Rowan shuddered. “What?”

“I got the book of human transformations.”

Rowan got up completely. “Open the book!”

“Here’s what written in the contents:

1. Introduction

2. Registration

3. Potions

4. Conclusion

“Start on Registration I suppose.”

“Okay.”

After reading the chapter, a note fell from the book.

Halsey,

If you are trying to become an Animagus, don’t forget to register yourself. You can get into lot of trouble. Send me a note if you registered yourself. Also send an owl to the ministry.

Regards,

Aunt Gwen

“Halsey, what are you planning to become?” Rowan asked.

“Um, maybe a cat.” Halsey answered.

“That’s your pet!”

“What?”

“Cookie!”

Halsey felt her cat purr on her leg.

Chapter VIII

Animagus

Rowan decided to be an Animagus as well, so she could help Halsey find the Sword of Destiny. They both started making the Animagus Potion.

Here’s what the content said:

1. In the 3rd week of the month, in a copper bowl, add dead fish scales.

2. In the same week but next two days, add the venom of Arik.

3. The next week, add Leprechaun hair.

4. On the 1st day of the new month, add the extract from the desired clover found on the great mountain of Lalitao.

5. Then, add the Antome Felix liquid.

6. Finally, add the hair of the animal you wish to become and drink it.

They decided to make the potion in the empty space under Halsey’s bedside table. The potion was well hidden.

“Sillynge!” Rowan shouted to Halsey and she became invisible.

“Rowan, I’m going to Professor Spuke’s ingredient section to get all the ingredients.”

“I can’t see you but sure.”

Halsey went out of the girls’ common room door to Caeruleum’s common room by saying the password and she headed straight to the room full of ingredients. She found everything quickly and rushed out. It was Wednesday, in the third week of December so Halsey added dead fish scales.

The next day, in transfiguration, Ben, Halsey, Leo and Rowan signed up for staying in the Christmas holidays. Transfiguration was the last subject of the day, so they noticed only their names ono the list in Caeruleum.

The professors had found they lost kids with injuries, scars and scratches so they immediately took them to Madame Gazelle. Obviously, after they recovered, they were sent back home the next day.

On Friday, Halsey added the venom of Arik and headed back to the ingredients room to keep the two things.

On Christmas Eve, it was the best holiday on a Saturday ever. The 4 headed down for supper and after supper, Ben and Leo brought stuff from the boys’ common room to the girls’ common room as they would sleep there in the Christmas holidays.

On Sunday, they added some Leprechaun hair and Halsey went and kept the ingredient back. Luckily, Professor Spukes had taken a off in the Christmas vacation so it was a lucky chance for them. On December the 1st, they added some extract from the desired clover found on the great mountain of Lalitao. They quickly added some Antome Felix liquid and headed to visit Professor Clutterbuck. He had a cat, so they could quickly take some hair from the cat.

They took a scissor along with them and they started to play with Goosebumps, the cat for 15 minutes and then the left with cat hair in their pockets.

When they reached back in the room, Leo and Ben weren’t there. 2 minutes later, the boys arrived with fox hair in their hands.

“You want to become an Animagus too?”

“Yeah.”

They took four glasses and equally divided the potion in the glasses.

They took the hair and added it in the potion and drank it. It tasted like chocolate frogs.

“Tasty!”

Halsey felt some cells mixing up in her body. So did her friends.

She tried becoming a cat and then back it worked! The others tried it too and it worked. They all were Animagi!

“Wait, Halsey, are you, me, Leo and Ben forgetting to do something?”

“I sure do know what we are Rowan. We are forgetting to write a letter to the ministry!”

“Well then, let’s write!”

Halsey took out her quill and a piece of parchment on which she started to write:

Mr Folgster,

I Halsey Glitterclouds would like to report to the Irish Ministry of Magic that My friends, Rowan Kanna, Ben Clastic and Leo Flick and I have successfully become Animagi. I and Rowan are cats while Leo and Ben are foxes. Please note that we have just become Animaguses and please do register us.

Regards,

Halsey Glitterclouds

She folded the letter and said, “Lorre, I want you to peck Mr Folgster till he writes a note with yes, okay?”

Lorre nodded slightly and took flight.

“I feel so happy!” Rowan said.

“Because you became an Animagus?” Leo asked.

“Me too.” Ben said.

“Same here.” Said Halsey.

Right then the clock struck 12. Leo and Ben packed everything and quickly rushed to the boys’ common room. The girls laughed.

Professor Darkhall used to check the House Room every holiday and would make sure they were properly located.

Professor Darkhall always use to reduce house points for the cause but allowed with permission. Halsey and Rowan peeked out of the door to check the boys. They sat on the sofa, waiting for professor Darkhall. As Professor Darkhall entered, the two stood up to greet her. Halsey and Rowan laughed quietly behind the door.

“Professor, can me and Ben stay in the girls’ common room with Halsey and Rowan?” Leo asked impatiently.

“And for what reason, may I ask?” Professor Darkhall asked them.

“Um, well me and Leo are best friends with Halsey and Rowan so, we would like to sleep with them till the end of the holidays. Hope that answers your question.” Ben answered.

“Permission granted.” Professor Darkhall said politely and left the room without a word.

Then Leo and Ben looked under the sofa and pulled as hard as they could and there came flying towards the door where Halsey and Rowan where hiding behind.

“Alohomora!” Halsey shouted, and the door opened. She whispered something in Rowans ear and Rowan took her wand from her pocket and stayed in position.

“1…2…3, now!” Halsey counted.

“Wingardium Leviosa!” both shouted. Halsey was pointing her wand at Leo while Rowan’s was on Ben’s charge.

The girls moved their wands towards the beds in which Ben and Leo would be sleeping in and pointed there wands down. Leo’s trunk flung down and on top of that, Leo sat along with his brief case.

Ben splat on the bed like slime and on top of him fell his trunk and cage in which Ben’s dog Droon growled.

“Leo what’s in that trunk?” Halsey asked.

“Um.”

“Don’t be shy!”

“Fine. I keep animals in there. Gigantic ones.”

He opened the suit case grabbed Halsey’s hand and jumped inside the suit case. He pulled it from up and twisted the handle.

When Halsey looked around, she saw many animals and admired them: phoenixes, unicorns, nifflers, bowtruckles, thunderbirds, graphorns, mooncalfs and many others.

Leo grabbed Halsey’s hand, jumped up, grabbed the handle, twisted it and pounced out.

“What were you two doing inside that small, yet magical suitcase?” Rowan and Ben asked.

“Leo keeps animals, wonderful ones!” Halsey exclaimed, taking a flashback.

“Children, to bed!” a shrill voice came from the door. They turned to look who it was. It was Mrs. Blaire, the caretaker of Magicals. It was only once or twice the 4 saw her.

She wore strange spectacles and a strange watch which shimmered out light. It made the other students look at her suspiciously.

“Yes, Mrs Blaire.” The kids answered.

Halsey jumped inside and once everyone went to sleep, she said, “Nox!” and the lights went out.

She didn’t have a good night’s rest. She dreamt of everything she saw in divination again and again. She kept tossing and turning and spoke in her dream. It was horrible.

The next day, Halsey woke up a little late to find Ben and Leo playing chess.

“Are you playing muggle chess?” Halsey asked sleepily.

“No. We’re playing wizard chess.” Leo answered.

“What’s that?” she asked again.

“Well, it’s like normal chess but the pieces move on their own in your command. I beat everyone in my family!”

“Wow!”

“Leo, that’s amazing! I’m sure you’ll beat me now!”

Chapter IX

In The Astronomy Tower

“So, Halsey watch. This is how you play.” Leo said. “Knight to G4!”

Immediately, the knight on the board moved to exactly G4 position.

Halsey watched carefully as Leo and Ben played together.

“Checkmate, Leo. I won!” Ben exclaimed.

“Wow Ben! Your moves were amazing. Luckily I byhearted them all!” Leo said.

“Halsey, Leo, Ben, it’s time for breakfast. Come fast, the professors are awaiting us.” A voice from the door said. It was Rowan.

“Oh! Yeah!” they replied.

Halsey and her friends quickly got ready and ran out to the breakfast.

She heard the professors whispering about her and her friends, “Halsey and her friends have got so many points for Caeruleum.”

“Ben, Leo Hemione and Rowan are very smart indeed. They are already ranking 1st with 432 points. Halsey herself has got 85 points.”

“And Rowan, she has got 72 points!”

“Her friends seem to be helping each other a lot!”

“They show the true sign of friendship and love!”

“Ah! Old friends of mine!”

Merula was listening too. After breakfast, they met her in the corridors.

“Looks like you can’t live without people gossiping about you.” Her voice suddenly turned into one of the Professor’s. “Halsey has got herself 85 points!” Then she started to snigger loudly.

Mrs Blaire walked by.

“Merula, imitating and teasing, aren’t you? 50 points from Virens. Children, back to your dormitories.”

Halsey shared a look with Merula, a smile.

“Why does Merula keep bossing around?”

“Isn’t she a…what...Fuβballschläger?”

“Yeah, got it correct.”

“I think Merula has a relation with my family, I have a secret.”

In the dormitory, Halsey removed a big fat book where it was written Caeruleum families.

She opened a page.

“My mother is Emily Caeruleum, great-great-great-great-great-great-great granddaughter of Cedric Caeruleum. Cedric was the cousin of Vanessa Virens and Merula’s mother is Penélope Virens.” Halsey explained.

“So, Merula is like your...your...your cousin?”

“Yeah. I know it’s really strange!”

“Halsey, I think I’m your far cousin.” Rowan said looking at Halsey.

“What?”

“My mother is your mother’s cousin’s sister-in-law. So, we’re sisters!”

“I can’t believe it!”

“Oh my gosh!”

“Wow!”

Professor Darkhall walked in. “Children, I expect less noise.” She said sternly.

“Sorry, professor.” Leo said.

“Girls, you nearly reduced our house points!” Ben said.

“Sorry.” They replied.

Halsey, Rowan, Ben and Leo took out their quills and started scribbling in their books.

20 minutes later...

“I think we finished charms homework. Let’s do our transfiguration essay.” Rowan said.

“We have to write an essay on the spell to change animals back to their true forms.” Leo asked.

“Yeah. Me and Rowan already completed it when you went for breakfast.” Halsey said.

“What!” Ben asked.

“All the things me and Rowan have to do is byhearting the hiccoughing potion process and practice the tickling charm and the knockback jinx for Defence Against the Dark Arts.” Halsey said taking out her book of Potions in a Pot and opening page 432 on which the title was: The Hiccoughing Potion.

After 10 minutes, Halsey and Rowan had done their potions homework and moved to the centre of the hall to cast spells on each other.

“Let’s do flipendo first rather than tickling ourselves nearly to death.” Rowan suggested.

Halsey and Rowan took out their wands and were ready in position. At the same time, they both said, “Flipendo!”

The two were knocked back to the ground and then shuddered their shoulders.

“It worked!” Rowan exclaimed.

“But we still have the tickling charm!” Halsey reminded Rowan.

Again, at the same time, Halsey and Rowan said, “Rictumsempra!” and started to giggle a lot.

After few seconds...

“We did it! Tomorrow, the classes start again, and all our homework done!” Halsey exclaimed.

“Boys, how’s it going?” Rowan asked.

“About to finish potions and then Defence Against the Dark Arts is left.” Leo answered.

After some time, all of them had finished their homework.

“2 hours to supper. What should we do?” Ben asked.

“Um, maybe play Gobstones?” Rowan suggested.

“Yeah, great!” Halsey, Leo and Ben said.

“You vs me and Ben vs Rowan. Let’s play.”

They went to the courtyard and found Gobstones ready for them.

“Looks like, 4 students from Caeruleum have come to play Gobstones!” a high pitch voice said.

“Yrtle, don’t come in my, Rowan, Ben and Leo’s business.” Halsey replied.

“Right, oh right!” she giggled and went away.

For an hour they sat to play and went to the library to read books.

“Halsey, I got a book about the Sword of Destiny. Ben and Leo, you can check it out too.

“Thanks Rowan. Boys, have a look!”

They read and read and read till it was seven.

“Children, down for supper.” Professor Greeldy, the school librarian said.

“Yeah.” They said and rushed down.

“Halsey, the Sword of Destiny has to be in the Astronomy Tower!” Rowan said.

“What? Oh, yeah, I know. By the way, I have a secret. I got some ring that makes me invisible or I can camouflage too. Anything I touch becomes invisible too. I think we can check the astronomy tower an 8 o’ clock.” Halsey said.

“Where did you get the from.” Rowan asked.

“I got it from my aunt, Aunt Gwen.”

“How? I mean why?”

“She told me that I was the Chosen One for something and this ring belonged to me. I was 9 then.”

“Halsey, your aunt knew you were the chosen one to find the Sword of Destiny!”

“I never knew that!”

“Write a note when you reach our common room.”

“Okay.”

Halsey and Rowan ate quickly and headed on the Caeruleum common room.

“Halsey don’t use Lorre. It will seem obvious. I used her to send a letter to Mrs Klasfleur regarding the Animagus book. I send it back.”

“Thanks. Let’s head to the Owlix to pick a school owl to send a letter.”

Halsey grabbed an owl that hooted a lot, quickly tied a letter and let it fly. She heard thick boots coming towards her and went to check who it was. It was Merula Synde and Jack Merrymare talking to each other and sniggering.

“Glitterclouds, sending a letter or rubbish. Jack and I have got personal business here. Get out!”

She walked silently, pressed her ring and she camouflaged immediately. She looked just like the perfect dotted wall behind her.

“Jack, what should we order, stink bombs or dung bombs? What suits that Glitterclouds girl?”

“Merula, I think both. Send a letter to my uncle. He’ll give us anything.”

Halsey left immediately and rushed to tell Rowan what happened. She pressed her ring again and she looked like herself.

“Rowan! Rowan! Merula and Jack are planning stink bombs and dung bombs on me! Where is Ben? I need him to inform Darkhall immediately!”

“I’m here, Halsey!”

“Tell Darkhall that Merula and Jack are planning stink bombs and dung bombs on me. Quick!”

Ben ran down the stairs of the girls’ common room and went to Professor Darkhall’s cabin.

5 minutes later, she arrived with Ben.

“Is it true, Miss Glitterclouds, Merula and Jack are planning this?” she asked sternly.

“Yes.” Halsey was shivering with fright at that moment and didn’t know what to say.

“I trust you. 200 points from Virens for unsafe and bad actions. 10 points to Caeruleum for quick actions. Off to bed. And boys, go back to the boys’ dormitory. Tomorrow the girls’ will be back and will be surprised and unhappy seeing boys on their beds. Good night, children.” She flung open the door and went away.

Next day, Halsey and Rowan woke up to find the Sun quite high.

“Good morning, Halsey.”

“Same to you, Rowan.”

They quickly got dressed in their robes and went down. In a few minutes, everyone gone for the Christmas holidays came back.

Professor Nullygul arose and headed towards the podium in the centre.

“Children, welcome back! I am pleased to tell you that you have 5 months left to complete this year at Magicals. We are pleased to inform to that in the next 3 weeks, there would be a Wizard Chess Tournament held on 23rd April, Friday, 2 wizard champions from each house and year. Good Luck!”

They headed towards the dormitories. Months went pass. Ben and Leo had signed up. There were only 2 days for the chess tournament to take place.

Ben and Leo were working really hard to practice and beat the rest.

Though, they had fun too.

Another day passed, and Ben and Leo were confident as much as they could.

“Leo, you ready for the tournament?” Ben kept asking.

Leo just smiled or frowned and gave alternate answers of yes and no.

“I’m feeling pretty nervous.” Leo said.

“How many times do me, and Rowan have to tell you boys to get a night’s rest. You’ll be alright!” Halsey used to say.

“Fine. Good night.”

Leo kept silent in all the classes the next day. In potions, something weird happed the next day.

Everyone was gossiping about the new potions’ teacher.

“I think Professor Spukes got sacked.” Everyone used to gossip.

“Maybe, he’s ill.” Said the other.

“No, Professor Gibbs, the new professor is maybe just a substitute.”

“Yeah, you’re right.”

“Knew it. I’m always right.”

“Stop bragging.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

As they entered the potion classroom, a thin, pale, white lady was standing wearing a lavender-coloured top with a baby pink skirt. Her denim jacket was a bit loose but suited her enough. She looked as if she had put over-makeup but smiled as graceful as anybody could. “Hello class, I’m Professor Nataly Gibbs.” Her smile was always on.

“She sounds better than Spukes.” Halsey whispered.

“Your old professor, Professor Spukes has got a new job in the Irish Ministry of Magic, so, I’m your new professor. Good Afternoon.”

“Good Afternoon, Professor.” The class replied.

“My, my! What good manners you have. Well now sit down. Have you learnt the Wiggenweld Potion?”

“No, Professor.”

“Well class, lets learn then!” With the flick of her wand, words started to appear on the board. “Students, please copy this down on your parchments.”

After all the classes, Leo’s head started to hurt a lot.

“Friends, I’m not feeling well.”

“I think you should go to the medical room.”

“Yeah.”

Halsey, Rowan, Leo and Ben went down slowly, completely tired.

“Madame Gazelle, we have a patient.”

“Head ache?”

“Yes.”

“17th student who has got a head ache.”

“What do you mean?”

“Everyone who signed up for the tournament has got a head ache.”

“Suspicious.”

“Back up, now!”

“Yes, Madame Gazelle.”

“Don’t you think it’s strange?

“17 students including Leo have got headaches.”

“And all of them signed up too.”

Just then, Ben broke out.

“Bye, I’m going to the medical room. I think a got a head ache too.”

“Bye Ben.”

“Now, it’s very strange.”

“Let’s go to bed, Rowan.”

“Yeah.”

Halsey had the same dream as last time. She woke to find Rowan holding a lit-up lamp at 12:00.

“Halsey, Astronomy Tower!”

“What? Oh yeah.”

“Let’s go. Press your ring and touch me.”

Halsey pressed her ring and touched Rowan. They both were invisible now.

“Sssh! Be quiet.”

Yrtle, the ghost just passed them and had a swift of them.

“Who’s there in the corridors at late night? Show yourself!”

“Yrtle, Professor Nullygul at her own will stays invisible. I can expel you right now from the area. Out now!” Halsey said.

“Sorry, professor!”

“Out!”

“Well done, Halsey!”

“Sssh! Rowan!”

The astronomy tower just had a bunch of stairs to reach it.

“Halsey, we’re here!”

Halsey pressed her ring at everything was clear again.

“Sssh! Rowan! Accio Sword of Destiny!”

Nothing came towards her.

“Accio Sword of a Destiny!”

Nothing came towards her again.

“Accio things related to the Sword a Destiny!”

A thin envelope came flying towards her in good speed.

“Halsey, let’s go!” I feel something is coming near us!”

Halsey pressed her ring and was invisible again. She held Rowan’s hand and rushed out. They dodged professors and their caretaker and came to their common room.

“Halsey, open the note!”

“Yeah. Lumous!”

She opened the note and it said:

The Sword of Destiny will only be found in June

“What? We have to wait all the way until June!”

“Halsey, that is so many months!”

“Go to sleep!”

“Yeah.”

Next morning, the girls went to see Ben and Leo the next day and found it strange.

“How are you?” Halsey asked.

Chapter X

Wizard Chess Tournament

“I’m superb!” Ben and Leo said at the same time with an energetic voice.

“Are you ready for today’s tournament?”

“The tournament was postponed till tomorrow. Have you got any homework?”

“Well, I did your homework and Rowan did Ben’s.”

“Halsey, I owe you something!”

“A trip to your house in the summer vacation? We can bring Ben and Rowan along!”

“Good idea!”

“Well, get ready for Defence Against the Dark Arts!”

“Yippee!”

The walked up till they reached the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom.

“Class, today, we have a special guest for us!”

“Mrs Fanetta!” Halsey wailed.

“That’s right, my name! I will be taking an interview of your Defence Against the Dark Arts classes for the newspaper as you all know. Well, go on.”

“Welcome, ma’am!”

“So, for how long have you been teaching here?”

Her voice seemed much deeper than the last time.

“23 years.”

“Well, that’s long.”

“Which house were you in?”

“When I was a student here, I was in Rubrum.”

“Ah! The blood of Rubrum, is it?”

“Yes.”

“What was the first subject you taught here?”

“Charms.”

“Spells?”

“Yes.”

“Well, blood status?”

“Pure-blood.”

“Ah! Well you’ll get your reports in a newspaper.”

“Thank You!”

Fanetta Bagshot, looked sternly at the students, eyed them suspiciously and walked over to Rowan.

“Rowan, your name is it?”

“Yes, indeed.” Rowan answered.

“Well I want you to answer my question.”

“What question?”

“How would you describe this class?”

“By an adjective?”

“Yes, 3 words.”

“Wonderful, Brilliant and Fun!” Rowan lit up a big smile on her face and stared at Mrs Bagshot.

“Good.”

When she walked out, Professor McKnight sighed, but smiled.

“Thanks Rowan, you saved my life there.”

“No, Professor. I really meant it.”

“Really, 45 points to Caeruleum.”

“Thank You.”

“Well class, let’s move on.”

“Professor, can we learn about werewolves, today?” Halsey asked.

“Sure. Can anybody tell me what a werewolf is?”

Halsey rose her hand up.

“Yes, Ms Glitterclouds?”

“A werewolf is somewhat like an animagus but has no control when it turns into one. He could also kill his own best friend. It only transforms on a full moon night and only listens to the call of it’s own kind. Werewolves can bite other humans and the human does become a werewolf then. Werewolves can be very dangerous.”

“10 points to Caeruleum.” McKnight said. “Class dismissed. I want you to write down an essay on A Werewolf’s actions.”

Halsey, Rowan, Leo and Ben went down, straight for charms. Professor Corfield was there with tiny pots on each and every desk.

“Welcome class!”

“Professor, why have we got pots?”

“We are going to learn the Engorgement Charm!”

“Fine.” Merula said feeling bored.”

“Merula, 35 points from Virens!”

“Urgh!”

“Back to class.”

Half and hour later, Halsey, Rowan, Leo and Ben went to the Potions classroom to find the same pale, thin, tall lady wearing teal robes this time.

“Class, homework?”

“Yes professor.”

Everyone handed out a big piece of parchment with words written on them.

“So class, I will be grading your homework in 4 letters: O for Outstanding, B for Brilliant, G for Good and N for Needs Improvement. First the Outstanding, the highest grade. Halsey, Rowan, Greg, Ben and Leo! Congratulations! I would tell Professor Nullygul to make you prefects in your next year!”

“Halsey, this is for the best of the best!” Greg exclaimed.

“Yeah, yeah.” Halsey said in a bored manner.

“Now for the brilliant. Nick, Jane, Janet and Kathy. Good job guys!” Professor Gibbs said speedily as if she had to catch a train.

“Yay!” Shouted Kathy and Nick.

The professor continued to call out names and Merula was in the Needs Improvement section. Halsey walked out feeling happy that she at least got the best grade for potions. She wondered about her other classes. Did she have to go for remedial charms. As charms class came near, she realised her answer was N O, NO.

In each and every subject, Halsey got Outstanding and watched Merula get Needs Improvement.

As dinner arrived, Halsey stayed in the dormitory. She starred out of the window, half starring at her own reflection being bounced in her eyes. She watched the stars sparkle brightly with a moon looking silver with patches of white. She remembered her sister, Laila. She hadn’t written to her for ages. But, she didn’t move at all or took out a quill, a piece of parchment and began to write. For some reason she couldn’t. She felt hurt. She struggled and got rid of it.

“Halsey, you just learned how to get rid of the Cruciatus Curse!”

“What do you mean, Ben?”

“Crucio!”

A small figure appeared. It was wearing a pillow cover with two openings on the top and bottom.

“Jiggle!”

“Who’s Jiggle, Leo?” the rest three asked.

“She is a house-elf.” Leo replied, looking surprised that Halsey, Rowan and Ben didn’t know what house-elves were.

“Um- Hi Jiggle!” Rowan and Halsey said trying to sound reasonable.

“Hi! Jiggle has come to warn Halsey Glitterclouds that the Sword of Destiny is in the school corridor, near the coal rocks.”

“Jiggle, what do we have to do?”

“Sorry, Halsey Glitterclouds. Jiggle cannot give her further information. She is restricted from doing so.” The house-elf snipped her fingers and disappeared, leaving only a cloud of glittery smog.

Right at that moment, Professor Darkhall came rushing inside. “Ben Clastic, Leo Flick. Chess Tournament. Who are your volunteers?”

Leo spoke first. “Halsey?”

“Oh, great! Ben Clastic?”

“I’ll have Rowan.”

“Well, Leo Flick, Ben Clastic, Halsey Glitterclouds and Rowan Kanna follow me.” She instructed.

They walked through a series of passageways and finally reached a golden door. Professor Darkhall pushed her way in and left it stuck open for the four to get inside. As they got inside, their eyes popped open. The room was extremely gigantic!

“Whoa!” Ben exclaimed.

“Awesome!” Halsey said.

“This room is so big!” Rowan said without blinking even once and almost putting herself within 3 meters away from her friends, she seemed to be fascinated the most out of the four.

“Rowan, Halsey, sit there and Ben, Leo, you right there. Right in the middle.” She instructed again.

“Ben, don’t you think Professor Darkhall’s behaviour has changed?” Leo asked.

“I do. That’s what I have been thinking for the past five minutes, Leo. She seems much stricter but kind too.” Ben replied.

“Let’s leave that business and focus on chess, Ben.” Leo reminded Ben.

The chess tournament continued for an hour.

“Ah!” Halsey screamed quietly.

“What happened Halsey?” Rowan asked urgently.

“I-I-I had a vision!” Halsey replied quickly.

“What vision?” Rowan asked.

“The sword of destiny is going to take me to some land and bring me back till I bring back my grandfather.” Halsey said.

“Hmmm, seems strange. Don’t worry. At least it’s something good.” Rowan said.

“Thanks Rowan. You make me feel much better.” Halsey answered smiling.

Half an hour later, Ben and Leo came rushing back with joy. Rowan and Halsey looked at them with confusion.

“Why are you so happy?” Halsey asked.

“Me and Ben are the Magicals’ champions! We both got 1st.” Leo said.

“You should have seen how I defeated Jack Merrymare with only 7 moves. It was like he never played wizard chess before!” Ben said happily.

“Wow!” Rowan said amazingly.

“That’s awesome!” Halsey exclaimed. “That means you each will get 5000 galleons! And will have to give us 2500! I finally can buy my dad the most expensive ring so that he can convince my mom to write the article on safety against the nightmare ghosts. I even have a picture of our rough idea.” Halsey pulled out a wrinkled light brown paper and held it straight.

Are you afraid of nightmare Ghosts?

Well then don’t worry! We have several tips for you! Make sure to follow them!

· If you ever encounter a nightmare ghost, quickly say the word, ‘Timboo’.

· Stay happy always. It prevents the nightmare ghost to attack you.

· Every night before you sleep, say Protego Totalum four times and Safcrust thrice.

· Do not leave your house after 11.

· If you ever encounter a nightmare ghost, contact the Ministry and if you are a child, tell proper authorities.

“Wasn’t that amazing?” Halsey asked.

“Seriously Halsey?” Ben asked.

Chapter XI

The Sword of Destiny

The four headed back to their dormitories. Halsey found two owls near her and Rowan’s window. She took the letters and the owls flew away. She opened the letter and inside only 8 words were written:

2,500 has been added to your vault, 985

“Halsey, I got 2,500!” Rowan exclaimed. But Halsey wasn’t listening. She took out a quill and a piece of parchment and started writing.

“Rowan listen to this. I already got the ring. I wrote a poem for my dad to sing to my mom.” Halsey said.

“Okay, go on.” Rowan answered.

“Dear Honey, this is my wish for you.

Comfort on difficult days; rainbows to follow the clouds; smiles when sadness intrudes; faith so that you can believe; sunsets to warm your heart; laughter to kiss your life; courage to know yourself; hugs when spirits sag; patience to accept the truth, beauty for your eyes to see, confidence for when you doubt; love to brighten your being and gratitude to complete your life.

From Hub.”

“Where did you get the lines?” Rowan asked.

“I have a friend back in India. Her name is Avina. Along with a birthday gift, she gave me this poem on 8th birthday. Luckily mom never read it. I hoped it would one day come in handy for my daddy. And well, it did!” Halsey exclaimed.

“Nice.” Rowan said. “Your type.”

“Lorre, come here.” Halsey said. A pure white and grey owl came flying towards them. Halsey tied the letter with a golden ribbon and wrote Papi.

It was already supper time, so Halsey and Rowan went to the Main Hall to have some nice pancakes and waffles. They only wanted to try Yorba Eggs along with the dessert.

“Eew!” Halsey screamed. “These Yorba Eggs are disgusting.”

“Got to suffer it.” Rowan answered.

After supper, Halsey and Rowan held hands together and slept. They hoped, as the sword of destiny’s powers will come to take Halsey, Rowan would come along. Halsey had a dream that the sword was halfway across the corridor to the common room. Soon, she woke up to find Rowan swirling around and so was she.

“Rowan, don’t let go!” Halsey yelled.

“I won’t! Hold tight!” Rowan replied.

“Rowan-

“Daingean!” Rowan yelled.

A bright silver thread tied Halsey’s and Rowan’s hands together tightly. The two girls soon landed on a soft pile of coal.

“Ouch!” yelled Halsey.

“We are on coals!”

“Wait. That’s what Jiggle the house-elf said.” Halsey reminded Rowan.

“But what do we have to do now?” Rowan asked.

“Follow the sounds.” A pale flute music flowed inside their ears. “Follow.” Halsey repeated.

“Follow.” Rowan said.

The two walked a whole bunch of corridors till they reached a diamond-encrusted door.

“Rowan, push.” Halsey ordered.

“Why me?” Rowan asked.

“Because something inside me tells that you should while I keep watch.” Halsey answered.

“Okay.” Rowan mumbled.

Rowan pushed until the heavy door open. Inside, Halsey and Rowan only saw one thing. It was Halsey wearing a colourful dress and a diamond tiara with Rowan looking the same at the side.

“We look beautiful!” they both exclaimed.

“Wait, not the picture, Rowan! The box! The box in which the sword of destiny is kept! Remember?”

“Oh, yeah.” Rowan said, alerted.

They each walked quietly towards the box and opened it. There stood inside was a bold looking sword. With a yellow and orange hilt and metal blade, Halsey held it in her arms.

Soon, many pictures came across the room.

“Halsey do something!” Rowan yelled.

Halsey cut her finger and touched her grandfather’s picture. The blood flowed along the wall and reached Grayback’ s picture. Hermione floated in mid-air. She wore the colourful dress and the tiara. Rowan did the same.

Her grandfather appeared. But soon, Grayback appeared too. Halsey’s grandfather ran to her.

“Protego Totalum!” Halsey yelled. She moved her wand around herself, Rowan and her grandfather.

“Diff-

Before Grayback could say any spell, Halsey attacked.

“Expelliarmus!” She yelled.

Grayback’ s wand flew back.

“Flipendo!” Rowan yelled.

“Rictumsempra!” Halsey yelled. “Sectumsempra!”

“Grandpa, disapparate!” Rowan said.

In one move, they were gone. They landed in Caeruleum’s common room.

“Bye, grandpa.” Halsey said.

“Bye and thank you. Rowan, you too.” He replied.

He left.

“That was amazing.” Rowan said.

“Sleep. We have only two hours.” Halsey said.

Two hours later, they woke up and got perfectly dressed for the day.

“It’s the last day!” Rowan yelled.

“We better go!” Halsey said.

Along the way, they met Ben and Leo.

“How was the night, ladies?” Leo asked

“Perfectly amazing. Leo, can we three come to your house in the vacations?” Halsey said.

“Sure, why not?” Leo answered.

They walked down the staircases and reached the Main Hall. The had pancakes and waffles and wanted Yorba Eggs. As they ate, Professor Nullygul stood at the podium.

“Another year has ended at Magicals. Witches and wizards, hope you are ready for this years’ champions? Virens with 329, Rubrum with 317, Flavus with 398 and Caeruleum, the winner, with 453! Congratulations Caeruleum.

All the witches and wizards, except for the ones on the Virens table threw their hats up and yelled, “Accio my cap! Yipee!”

The witches and wizards took their caps and their belongings and went to the road and walked till the entrance.

Soon, all of them were gone..