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“Whether you come back by page or by the big screen, Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home.”
- J. K. Rowling

So, welcome... and welcome back!


***


This is a sequel to Hogwarts: Triwizard Tournament. New entries are warmly welcomed, old entries as well.

***

CURRENT SITUATION

The Triwizard Tournament officially started. The Goblet of Fire chose its champions and we are all impatiently waiting for the first task. If you plan on cheering for our champions, they are the following bunch:

Hogwarts: Niklaus
Durmstrang: Zion
Beauxbatons: Leta (written by Siri)

***

But before we dive in - I present you:

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL ROUNDS
- outfits won't be required (you can make outfits to fit your story and events in your story, but I won't require them if you give me a detailed description)
- impressions are provided for the characters you use in your story
- there will be no extensions (unless I, as a host, fail to fulfill my duties and obligations)
- all bits of your story that you think are "too ____ (insert chosen word here)" for the forums rules - send them via PM, they will count to your stories
- all questions you're afraid to ask me in my PM, Whatsapp or other platforms, you may ask here anonymously: ASK.fm

***

THE RULES
- 96 hours per round
- edit and non-edit
- up to 2 main characters per person (but only if you can actually manage that), male or female
- casting + 4 rounds, each ending at 20:00 forum time and next one posted within five hours (after reading what you've written and preparing individual rounds)
- read the requirements
- no matter how repetitive always read the requirements
- read the requirements
- min: interaction with at least one character per round (a man is not an island
- max: the sky is the limit

Going OOC

Going Out of Character. 

I often use my ''Lucifer rule'' here, which goes like this (for the ones who aren't familiar with it already).

So I've got a description of my character:
Mr. Lucifer is the keeper of the gate of Hell, Satan himself and ruler of darkness who brings his wrath and envy upon all living creatures, creating chaos and havoc on earth.

You say:
Lucifer looked at me and blushed.

. . .

My Lucifer (you know, the guy that makes people go to hell) does not blush.

He just doesn't.

Not even when the fire of the burning souls in hell warms his cheeks up. 

"I solemnly swear that I am up to no good."

This will be the title of messeges you might get with a secret task or opportunity you might want to do or decline - nobody will know it's you unless you write about it in your story. So watch out for those.

Mischief managed will appear in your impressions in case you've been the target of the no-good-doers.

Now back to what I want from you. Below you'll find the forms:

If you are entering with your old character

Name:
Face Claim:
Age: 16-19
House/Home:
About them: short summary, up to 300 words 
Interests: up to 4
Everything else: anything you want to add, want to change or any communication with other characters
The time span for this casting round is the same as in the last round of past contest. So the round ends before the first task.

If you're new

IF STUDENT

Name:
Face Claim:
Age: 16-19
House/Home:
Traits: virtues and flaws (at least three from both)
Dream:
Fear:
Favourite subject: sth you're good in
Least favourite subject: sth you're bad at
Family and other relations: Pure-blood, half-blood or muggle born and family members (if you include a sibling that is 16-18, they will be added into the extras - bear also in mind that you’re already on the years six and seven of your education, so naturally you should have made some friends)

IF TEACHER

Name:
Face Claim:
Age: 25+
House/Home while you were in school:
Traits: virtues and flaws (at least three from both)
Dream:
Fear:
Subject you teach: sth you're good in
Family and other relations: Pure-blood, half-blood or muggle born and family members 
Story: get me to know your character, whether through her background or through a snippet from everyday life

EXTRAS 
New ones if seen as needed will be added after casting...

Beauxbatons

Name: Acel Baptiste
Face claim: Keiynan Londale
Age: 17
About them:
Acel is a very quiet individual, who doesn't seem to care about much of the attention he is getting, simply because he is a world-famous model for Veelacariosa skincare with the essence of Veela hair. You can see the ads he's in in each new number of the daily prophet. He, himself, also has some Veela blood from his great-great-grandmother. He's polite but doesn't bother to interact with the numerous fans that bother him on a daily and hourly basis. He smiles reluctantly back and continues on with his day. He dislikes refusing to take pictures or signing anything, because he finds it rather difficult to say no... to basically anyone. When he gets upset, however, he'll won't pretend to be a gentleman, rather just let go of his usual stiff composure and let the Veela blood in him bite your head off. For some reason he is oddly scared of horses and unicorns, since of a childhood incident with a horse in his garden. or that reason he is also not a fan of Care of Magical Creatures. His favourite subject is without doubt Astronomy. Both his mother and father are wizards and one day he hopes he'll be leading a quiet life in a hidden cottage with only a loved one and his dog.


Name: Mathieu Cuvelier (Brother of Manon - Siddh)
Face claim: Timofei Rudenko
Age: 17
About them:
Mathieu, or just Math as those who understand his whimsical nature call him, enjoys having fun. He’s one of those people who are never bored because even if for a moment he feels the boredom coming will jump back on their feet and do something to distract themselves. He’s not used to deep thinking about things that bother him. He rather shakes it off and grins at you, assuring even yourself that everything is precisely the way it should be. He’s not keen on responsibilities or anything that limits his freedom so finding a favourite subject is as if you’re asking him, which torture device he’d prefer. But in the end, he finds Muggle Studies immensely amusing, unlike the everlasting boredom of Ancient Runes. He’s lucky, his dad is a muggle so he can explain a thing or two to him, his sister and his witch mother. Surprisingly Math has no fixed dream of his future. When asked this question, a picture of a wave crashing into the shore appears in his mind – and he’s riding the wave, on a surfing board – a cute muggle invention his father seems to be very fond of.

Durmstrang

Name: Zion Yang
Face claim:Hao Yun Xiang
Age: 18
About them:
Born in a pure-blood family, who appreciated the beauty of true wizard blood, Zion was raised to value old wizard families and despise anything else. While his strong jawline and flat expression seemed to show that he fully agreed with that way of thinking, he actually just didn’t care about it as much as his family seemed to want him to. Out of the very few half-blood students he met at Durmstrang, the purity of their blood did not seem to be of relevance. He rather focused on playing Quidditch and studying hard, since it seemed he was rather good at that. Always polite and well-mannered he also seems to be the teacher’s pet. He’s not one of those who need to hear the instructions twice. Once he hears them he does them, no thought lingering in his head. All of the subjects are dear to him, but Arithmancy seems to be holding a special place in his heart unlike Divination, which he never seemed to grasp properly. One day he hopes to work in the ministry of Magic and perhaps even lead it.



Name: Jordan Gemma Dunwich
Face claim: Adelaide Kane
Age: 18
About them:
Gemma was born in a magical family, her mother being from Bulgaria, her father from Great Britain. She is an only child and is aware that she is the hope of her family and she set her goal to make them proud. Nothing iss ever enough for her father - Jordan always needs to give more, want more, do more. But truth be told, she never wants more, never tries more than it is required. She completely lacks ambition, but her brains are enough to do great at school. She only needs to listen on the classes and read the materials a few times before the exams to excel. She is, however, terrible at socialisation. She is one of those weird people, who never seem to care about whatever you’re talking about or contribute to a normal conversation. What many don’t know is that she always listens. She just believes it’s not her matter to comment on unless precisely asked to. And what nobody knows is that she cares. Sometimes even too much. She is very weak in Divination but excels at Charms and Care of Magical Creatures and one day she hopes to become an ambassador of the Ministry in the muggle world.

Gryffindor

Name: Jordan Green (brother of Naz – Fashion-Chic)
Face claim: Jeremy Dufour
Age: 17
About them:
Jordan is a pure-blood wizard, whose family has been in the home of Salazar Slytherin for quite a long time. He, however, seems to have rebelled against it and readily jumped into the house of Godric Gryffindor. It’s harsh to say he’s not a fan of his family, but it seems as if he’s the black sheep of their bloodline. His sister, too, has vastly different opinions than he has, even if they are twins. Sad thing is that once sorted into Gryffindor, his life became… precisely that what he always assumed happiness was. He was surrounded by people who understood him. Soon he found two friends whose side he’d never even imagine leaving, even if both of them seemed to come from a muggle family, Niklaus and Nela. Jordan excels at all subjects and teachers are fond of him, even if he doesn’t try hard to make them to. His favourite subject, still is Defence Against the Dark Arts, since it filled with excitement and practical use, and his least favourite one seems to be potions, even if he is rather good at them. One day he dreams of being free of being connected with the Green family name and creating his own reputation.


Name: Niklaus Kalendruschat
Face claim: Cameron Boyce
Age: 17
About them:
Niklaus was born into a really poor muggle family, getting really surprised to find out he’s a wizard. Getting financial aid for poorer students, Hogwarts was able to give him education. His parents were thrilled and tried to make things easier for him even if it was hard with him and his other two younger brothers. Niklaus studies hard not to lose his modest scholarship, because without it, he wouldn’t be able to buy even second-hand books and robes he’s using right now. He is however, one of those people who seem to throw everything away if people dear to him need him. He’s understanding and caring and never, ever selfish. One of the rare commodities he has allowed himself is owning a pet. A small tabby cat which seems to be only fond of him and nobody else after he saved it from freezing in Hogsmeade. Nik’s favourite subject is Care of Magical Creatures and he’s not really fond of Transfiguration. One day he hopes he’ll offer his children brand new books and robes without going into debts.


Name: Nela Belan
Face claim: Josephine Skriver
Age: 18
About them:
Nela has been born into a muggle family, who had no clue their daughter was a witch. However, once she managed to turn her brother into a monkey, it was clear that she wasn’t a normal six-year-old. Unlike Niklaus, she has plenty of money and even if there are insults thrown her way about not being pure-blooded she shakes them off with a scoff. She’s aware she’s great. The confidence she has is almost palpable and as the captain of the Quidditch team she assures every opponent, she’s not worried a bit. Weirdly enough, she has never lost a game as a captain for three consecutive years in a row. She’s extremely loyal and would kill and die for her friends, so it’s smart to keep her at your good side. She’s also really popular with boys and some girls. It seems that if you’re looking for the queen of Hogwarts, you met her in this girl. Her favourite subject is Defence Against the Dark Arts, even if she is best known to be the best student of potions in the last ten years. She excels at all subjects. Her least favourite subject is by far Study of Ancient Runes. One day she hopes to make her summer job her profession. She spends her summers as a lingerie and swimsuit model.

Hufflepuff

Name: Holly Longbottom
Face claim: Zoey Deutch
Age: 16
About them:
Holly is a half-blood witch, whose father was really surprised to find out both his wife and daughter were witches on a warm Sunday afternoon when it started snowing in his own house. She’s impatient and carefree and keen on doing what she feels like, regardless of how inconvenient it might be for others. She is a cheerful persona and her company is always fun, even if sometimes challenging. She’s prone to snap at people but usually realises it soon enough and profoundly apologises for her behaviour. Her favourite subject of all times is Divination, not because she’s that good at it, but because she can give her creativity a wind in the back and figure out various scenarios that could happen when a planet is in a specific position. She finds it immensely fun and challenging – almost the same as she’s describe herself. She isn’t a fan of Charms, though, because it seems the spell she’s trying to cast is never the one she actually casts. One day in the future she hopes to own a magic beauty salon, because if there’s something she’s good at – it’s makeup and hair.


Name:Sebastian James Hadwin (brother of Mary-Grace – NinaJones)
Face claim:Cesar Casier
Age: 18
About them:
Sebastian James comes from a respected pure-blood family. Oddly enough he prefers his middle name, which he got after his grandfather. He’s not one to talk much, but if a conversation is started he’ll make sure to show enough interest and respond properly. He’s a quite smart guy, who seems to be endlessly disappointed with not making it into Ravenclaw, where he genuinely thought he’d end up, considering his family history. He’s trying to find the reason why the Sorting hat put him there were he is now, but it doesn’t seem he’s too pleased about it. James is, however, hardworking and very detailed when it comes to taking things seriously. He notices things most people wouldn’t and he does it with ease. His favourite subject is Transfiguration, in which he irrevocably excels, but he finds Potions not as tempting as other subjects he’s listening to. He thinks the reason why he’s so good at Transfiguration must be this detail-oriented nature of his, while he blames his sulking and stubborn nature to disobey instructions for his lack of success in potions .One day he wishes to open his own book shop where he’ll be trying to write his own spell book.


Name: Luna Mills-Bogdanov
Face claim: Rachelle Lefevre
Age: 18
About them:
Luna is born into a well-off pure-blood family, her mother being a witch in full sense of the word, with its many negative connotations. Luna’s greatest strength is her generosity and the love she gives to the beings around her. She is insufferably kind, gentle and caring and she carefully weighs her words before using them. She is prone, however, to outbursts here and there when her usually very deep glass of controlled emotions overfills and generously overflows. She was raised to respect everyone as long as they respect her, but to immediately rebel if no respect is offered. She’s easy to please and small acts of kindness make a deep impact on her. She doesn’t eat meat nor any animal products and her cat Thea is always somewhere around her. It’s probably the best trained cat you’ve ever seen. Luna’s favourite subject is Care of Magical Creatures and her least favourite subject is certainly History of Magic. She is also very good at Divination and once had a vision of what she thinks her future is: she in a beautiful white wedding gown and her groom, whose face she wasn’t able to see – but could see the dozen eggs he seemed to be throwing off the altar. 


Name:  Tuesday Luca May
Face claim:Froy Gutierrez
Age: 18
About them:
Tuesday is one of a kind. He's affectionate, charming and yet there isn't a person in the world that dislikes him. He oozes this fine note of confidence and trust and draws people in very naturally. It's as if he posses some kind of spell over people, making them feel very comfortable and welcome around him. He's a jokster and enjoys puns and spiting out fun facts - which do not have to be true at all. He usually uses these tactics when he needs to get someone out of an uncomfortable situation and it usually works pretty well. For once because nobody expects it or could be perhaps because it's not even his place to meddle in. Tuesday is kind and one could call him loyal, if being loyal to a huge pool of people all at once counts as loyalty. Oh, yeah, and he's a half-blood, if that matters to you. 

Ravenclaw

Name: Reynard Potter
Face claim: Tom Srurridge
Age: 17
About them:
Reynard comes from a pure-blood family, who doesn’t seem to be concerned with matters of blood, even if their line seems to be ‘pristine’ as some would say. He’s insanely intelligent and very friendly. He gets along with everyone, even if he’s not too close with anyone but a few of his classmates. He’s aiming to become a healer and that is why his grades seems to be best in school. Surprisingly enough, Rey isn’t overly confident and he realises that the reason why he’s this good really is because he works hard. His biggest flaw is that he almost never and he tends to hold grudges for a very long time. Funnily enough, he’s one of those people, who wouldn’t think twice about putting a spell on your pen so it’d write down everything incorrectly if you tick him off. He’s not the type to have outbursts, but the type to serve his revenge cold and doubled, so try and not get on his wrong side. His favourite subjects are Herbology and Potions but he doesn’t seem to enjoy History of Magic at all.


Name: Bryce Slughorn
Face claim: Daniel Macedo
Age: 17
About them:
Bryce is one of those guys who’s been with many girls so far. As a half-blood he has some understanding for the witches and those who come from muggle families, making him knowledgeable on so many various topics of conversation.  He’s charming, alluring and has one of those smiles, that throw you off your feet. He’s kind but also gullible and easily distracted. Only if he likes you a lot he’s able to keep his attention span longer than a few minutes, without running off somewhere else, because the world of adventure is calling him. He doesn’t take an advantage of people but sometimes doesn’t seem to grasp the severity of the situation developing around him, which often leads to many broken hearts and hard feelings. But all he wants is honesty and some good company for a stroll around the school. His favourite subject is Herbology, but he’s not that keen on Charms, because, I quote him, he has enough charms in his personality. In the future he dreams of working outdoors, unconfined by wall.


Name: Rodolphus “Ruff” Glendower (brother of Effie – Adidut)
Face claim: Bluey Robinson
Age: 18
About them:
Rodolphus is a son of a pure-blood family, whose members have been fond of the house of Rowena Ravenclaw. He has impeccable manners and even if his temper is rather quick and not prone to testing and teasing, he seems to skilfully mask it with a polite smile and empty words of assurance. Ruff is confident and insists on being called “Ruff” just by his close friends. When others seem to want to use that nickname of his, he kindly reminds them they are not close enough to share affections by using nicknames. He is actually quite open-minded and ready to accept plenty of options and opinions as long as his are accepted as well. He is prone to sulking , even if it’s hard to tell, because the mask of politeness stays on. It is, however, noticeable since he uses a lot more sarcasm in his words than he is normally used to. His favourite subject is Transfiguration but he doesn’t seem all too keen on Herbology, ever since a Devil’s Snare almost chocked him to death as he took a nap in the wrong part of the garden. One day he hopes to be a lawyer.

Slytherin

Name:  Andrei Gusarov
Face claim: Miles McMillan
Age: 18
About them: 
Andrei was born into a wealthy family in Moscow, which has a bad reputation - which was actually never proven. Supposedly their riches have been built on selling magical artifacts in the muggle world. But, supposely only.
Andrei was always a smart kid, who didn’t study much/at all but managed to do good in everything because he was the kind which listened and remembered everything. So he rarely forgets anything he had learnt or just heard and trying to convince him you didn’t say something but another thing will be unsuccessful – he remembers exactly what you said. He is quite laid back and you’ll practically never see him stressed out. He rarely gets upset over trivial matters, but when you do him wrong in some bigger way, like lie to him regarding important things, there’s not really a chance he’ll let it slide. He’s not fond of group work because people seem to sense a natural leader and him and set him for the position even if he doesn’t want it and he never wants it because responsibility is not a thing he does. At least not willingly. Conversationwise he is very pleasant to be around and for some - unknown to him or others - reason people really have the need to tell him everything. There is a legend he was conceived under a trust spell so he has this kind of effect on people. 


Name: Blaise Lestrange (brother of BambiFoxx)
Face claim: Darin Blaine Williams
Age: 17
About them:
Blaise is a pure-blood. That first sentence is what Blaise values the most about himself. Raised in a family with generations and generations of Slytherins, he seems to follow the usual stereotype of a muggle-hating policy founded by his great-, grandfathers. He is very goal-driven and convinced of his own superiority, that he doesn’t even seem to acknowledge some people who surround him. Even more if they are not pure-blooded. He is above average in intelligence as well as in his magical abilities and while others waste their time on hobbies, he prefers lazying around or taking a nap. He is very much of a gentleman and a pleasant person if you’re ever to have a conversation with him as another pure-blood wizard. His attitude only changes if you’re ‘that kind’ of wizard and by that kind he means the kind that supports the mixture of wizard blood with those unworthy of it. His favourite subject is Charms and he doesn’t see the point in defending against the dark arts while one could be learning how to use them properly. In the future he aims to work at the Ministry of Magic.


Name: Sidh/Siddh Pandya
Face claim: Avan Jogia
Age: 17
About them:
Sidh comes from a revered Indian pure-blood line of wizards. His family has been kept pure for over a millennium, which is not something many families can say. While his father has been sent to England as an ambassador of India’s Ministry of Magic, Sidh has joined Hogwarts until they go back to India. He is quite popular with girls and unlike plenty of her Slytherins he does not have a problem with muggle-born wizards. He’s very into them if they are physically attractive, even if marrying one would never be something he’d do. He is an intelligent young man, very aware of his situation and while he’s young he can enjoy some recklessness if in the end he jumps back to being a decent heir and successor of his family. He also has a talent of noticing people who will at some point be of use to him. He befriends them easily with his endless charms, regardless of their blood and carefully weaves his web of connections. His favourite subject is History of Magic, because he believes that a good basis is the key to understanding and his least favourite subject is Care of Magical Creatures, because he’s not fond of touching beasts.

Staff

Name: Cassandra Mills Bogdanov
Face claim: Catherine Zeta Jones
Age: 50
About them: Tournament Officiant and celebrated Journalist
Cassandra is world famous filthy rich heiress, influencer and journalist. Her political ties are so strong she can get anywhere at any time and when she asked to officiate the tournament no sounds of disagreeing were heard. This career, however is her secondary hobby. Her true passion lied in journalism, not the good one I'm afraid. She's got an amazing ability to find out everything and put it brutally honest and hurtful onto paper. It's a gift she says but anybody featured in her articles would disagree. Not only is she officiating the tournament, but she is also leading the whole press coverage for it. Now you might make a mistake and conclude she does it on her own - no, no, no. There is a whole slew of people working on this tournament and while tracking the progress of it and deeply focusing on the candidates she has decided to open a few columns as a treat for the other students as well. You might think this type of gossip columns is way too low for a person of such high profile, but she is thoroughly enjoying it, remending herself of the teenage angsty days she once had. So, stay alert. She's listening.


Name: Sibellius Nonàme
Face claim: Chris Pine
Age: 37
About them: Principal of Beauxbatons
Sibellius is an exquisite principal, who manages to get numerous opportunities for his school to be famous all over the globe for it's impressive offer of extracurricular activities. His students are obliged to attendat least three of those for their own personal development. He is half Veela and beauty and especially his ego shows for it. He’s  galant though, when he isn’t rude, mocking and condescending. But since he seems and sounds sweet and sugary at first, you might not realise you're being roasted until sarcasm hits you full force. So unless you're one of those people who admire him and his successes, at start he might rub you the wrong way. But give him a moment or two and he'll start growing on you because of his warm and caring nature.


Name: Fletcher Krum
Face claim: Idris Elba
Age: 40
About them: Principal of Durmstrang
Fletcher has a hard exterior, intimidating to almost everyone, and he can be harsh - truthful, in his mind. He doesn’t care about accommodating people to his words, because he really does think them. One of his many quirks is that he simply can’t tolerate any mumbling. There’s nothing that seems to irk him as much as people not speaking out properly. He is also unlike any principal of Durmstrang yet. In what way you might ask? He's the first one who openly refused to continue teaching dark arts in his school. After a huge backlash and some twenty years, the situation has finally settled down and now Durmstrang's reputations seems better than ever. It seems that this man can give a proper lesson on bravery and dealing with adversity. And even if he might not seem this way at first glance he cares about his students the most.

Contestants

Last edited by Tonkolina (22/09/2020 at 21:45)

ASK.fm questions

What period are we in, when comparing to the HP movies and books?

Harry and his friends and Lord Voldemort are in the past, you learn about them as part of recent history. Basically, Voldemort was defeated in 1998 and it's been 22 years since then (2020). If you want to use some of the HP characters for your storyline you are allowed to, mind the age gap and use them - I will, however, refrain from doing so.
And since it's been quite a while most of the HP teachers are retired now, meaning you have more or less fresh blood around.
For funs sake let's make McGonagall the headmaster and Hagrid is still the gamekeeper.

Last edited by Tonkolina (02/09/2020 at 10:41)

ROUND 1 - DONE



NAME
PERSEPHONE LESTRANGE

FACE CLAIM
Zhenya Katava

AGE 17

HOUSE/HOME
Slytherin, Hogwarts

ABOUT - DONE

NICKNAME:
Seff (mostly only Blaise has called her this in the past)

TRAITS: virtues and flaws (at least three from both)
Charismatic, Cunning, Ruthless, Daring, Arrogant, Devious
... now to go find some flaws...

DREAM:
Becoming an Unspeakable in the Department of Mysteries

FEAR:
Disfigurement/mutilation, rodents

FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Transfiguration & Potions

LEAST FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Divination

FAMILY & OTHER RELATIONS:
Persephone is a pure-blood witch from a very powerful and prominent family with ancient bloodlines and connections. She is the younger sister of Blaise by only 10 months to the day. Often mistaken for twins due to their closeness in age, they were nearly inseparable as children. The two are very similar in both demeanor and personality, sharing secrets, planning manipulations, and covering up each other’s misconduct, if need be. Just like most Slytherin, they are extremely loyal to each other while having an obvious disdain for those that they feel are unworthy of their time and attention. Persephone is not at all discreet about her haughty attitude towards anything muggle-related. She is also very self-absorbed, but her narcissism is well managed when in the company of like-minded wizards and witches and she is genuinely liked, and protective over those in her friend circle.

She is a metamorphic witch, and as such has always had the ability to self-transfigure without additional training or potions. It caused a bit of an uproar in her family when she accepted the enrollment invitation from Ilvermony Wizarding School in favor over the Owl-missive that arrived on her 11th birthday for Hogwarts. Even at that young age, she avidly planned for her future and knew the most prestigious scholar in transfiguration was currently head of the department at the U.S. based school. Not only was the school praised for its curriculum in human transfiguration but also in alchemy, the second of which would only be available at Hogwarts into her 6th or 7th year... and even then, only if there was enough interest to create the course. As far as Persephone was concerned, the pros outweighed the cons. It was totally worth suffering muggles in order to train with the best.

The one major difference between Blaise and Persephone is that she is not at all lazy. She is quite ambitious and athletic. Despite knowing and using her family advantages, she is also focused and determined to achieve her goal of one day getting a position in the Department of Mysteries as an Unspeakable. The highly elusive and exclusive position intrigues Persephone due to its secretive nature and independence of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and the Minister of Magic.

Thanks in large part to her wealthy and influential family, she rarely finds herself in any position where real consequences are of threat and is often willing to exploit her connections for her own advantage. Her privileged position made her ruthless and quite reckless. Which is exactly why she is here, at Hogwarts, finishing out her final year of Wizarding schooling… Even the wealth and power of a Lestrange is not enough to get one out of the hottest of hot water…

INTERESTS
Blaise | Sidh | Bryce | Zion

Snippets - DONE

Arrival... Being confident where I belong

Bryce
Is completely unknown by Persephone. She is meeting him for the first time on her first day at Hogwarts and softens up to him immediately solely based on his pure-blood family name. Things will likely take a dramatic turn, for her, once his true parentage is revealed.

Welcome to Hogwarts - DONE

“Well hello there…”

I shifted my gaze, more out of curiosity to who was speaking then actually feeling like the comment was directed at me. Seeing the tall chisel-faced guy a few steps away, obviously returning my gaze was a little bit of a surprise.

I was alone, well so was he, even though the common area had a few other students mulling about. But for the most part, the room was quiet… as far as I knew the majority of faculty and students were off celebrating the champion picks. A Triwizard Tournament was not exactly what I envisioned experiencing my first time within the halls of Hogwarts. I wasn’t scheduled to arrive until tomorrow. Of course, I couldn’t just do what was expected of me, could I?

Keeping an eye on the guy ahead I shifted my bag from one shoulder to the next then tugged on the hem of the green blazer I wore, making sure it was meticulously placed. Based solely on information I learned from Blaise about Hogwarts, I knew this guy wore the Ravenclaw colors. Which was not necessarily inherently bad, just not obviously better.

“Don’t recall seeing you around before…” he said as he moved closer, my head tilting as he did so to keep sight of his face, and magnetic grin, due to the several inches in height he had above me.

“No…” I shook my head briefly as I spoke, obviously skeptical. “I’m new…”

That got a raised brow from him. The truth was, new students always caused a level of curiosity, but to have one show up mid-semester… it would be talked about by more than one student once word got around. And then the gossip and rumors would start. I lifted my chin arrogantly.

“Well, nice to meet you… I’m Bryce Slughorn… am I your first official welcome to Hogwarts?” Almost immediately, my demeanor changed, and I smiled a bit brighter at the stranger. Slughorn… it was a pure-blood family.

“So far as the students go, yes… which of us is the lucky one?”

He was definitely easy on the eyes, and when he grinned… as he did again just then, it seemed to brighten up the room. It almost… almost… made me forget all about the hell the last two weeks had been.

“I’ll only be lucky if you agree to let me show you around…”

“Oh gosh, do you go around pawning off horrid lines like that to every girl you meet?”

“Only the cute ones…” he winked with the tease making me smirk. “Besides… I'm cute and can get away with it”

“So… what you’re telling me is… you make a habit of getting cute girls to follow you around like a puppy dog when you flash them that dimple-filled grin?”

He faked being affronted, pulling his hand up to his chest dramatically, “I didn’t say that!”

I pressed my lips together in a doubtful expression, but my pale green eyes were full of amusement, which he seemed to easily catch on to.

“Ummhmm… probably tour them right into some secluded corridor… corner them… get them all weak in the knee and tingling from head to toe. I nice, respectable girl should probably steer clear of you Bryce Slughorn…”

He laughed merrily, “oh, come on... I promise, I will be a perfect gentleman… show you all the upstanding proper places to know and love at Hogwarts…”

“Oh no, you had to go and mess it up! That might just be a deal breaker!”

We both chuckled before just then a voice cleared itself a few steps behind me followed crisply by a mature voice.

“Miss Lestrange, I had been told you arrived… early. Please come with me so that we can get you all sorted out…”

I turned my gaze, spying the mature woman in dark hat and clothes, hands crossed in front of herself and her mouth pinched tightly as if she were in extreme displeasure constantly. Causing me to totally missed the confused look that crossed Bryce’s face or the shock that followed when I nodded my head to the stern looking woman.

Seconds later, peeping back towards him I smirked softly and utter in a soft voice, not really noticing or reading into the strange look he gave me... “oh well, looks like I won’t have to endure your oh so proper good girl tour… but you know… when you decide to stop being a perfect gentleman, you come find me…”

And with that I was led away, the older woman, Headmistress no less… ushering me to the sorting hat and then to… as expected… the Slytherin Dungeon.

Blaise & Sidh
Very close relationship to her brother and would consider him her best friend although she has never had a reason to discuss romantic interests with him since she knew he could sometimes be a bit overprotective. In general, she has not kept secrets from him, in the past.
Has a very brief acquaintance with Sidh from a one time visit to the Lestrange family home. She secretly found him attractive and intriguing, instantly getting a bit of a quick crush on him, but hid her interest due to uncertainty of her brothers reaction. She preferred, at the time, to avoid making an awkward situation between him and his friend.

Greatness is Green... - DONE

“Bloody hell… Seff?!”

I jumped as the door to the girl’s dormitory slammed open and his yelling erupted into the room at large. The only two other girls in the room at the time gasped as well, startled by the unexpected interruption. I twisted onto my side from my laying position, the book I was nose deep into turned over and placed against my pillow.

“Bloody hell why are you yelling like a flipping banshee” I counter before I begin grinning like a loon spotting Blaise hovering in the doorway.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were here already!” He accused waltzing over, completely ignoring the two girls that I had already forgotten the names of.

I plucked the pillow and tucked it under my arms as I sat up cross-legged on the bed. “You were off with your friends or whatever when I arrived… didn’t see a point of running all over campus trying to find you…”

“You could have sent word you were coming early…” another accusation.

“You know you’re not supposed to be in here Blaise Lestrange!” One of the girls complained, her eyes shifting from him to me then back again and not looking too pleased about it… followed by the other one giggling. I smirked and arched a brow up at him while he proceeded to give the exact same look to the brown-haired girl.

“You going to snitch on me Tamsin?” The girl in question seemed to stammer and preen when his gaze locked with hers before she huffed dramatically. Even without knowing a thing about her, I could tell that the girl was not at all prepared to report him, not with the way her cheeks flushed at his question.

“You know I’m not gonna tell on you Blaise…” she confirmed my suspicion, her voice turning softer, almost sing-songy making me roll my eyes when he grins then winks at her. I also did not mistake the daggers she shot to me when he returned his attention to me seconds later.

“Everyone’s out in the common room, why are you hiding in here like a hermit?” He muttered and I almost laughed considering that ‘everyone’ obviously did not include his little fangirl and her friend across the room.

“I was reading” obviously pointing to the open book, “besides, there was like one person there when I arrived… I thought you were all out celebrating or something… that tournament thing y’all do is happening right…”

Without warning he reached past me and yanked the book, firmly slapping it shut and tossing it on the nightstand before gripping my wrist and yanking me from the bed and literally tugging me along behind him despite my squeal of protest.

“Ohh, it was her?” Another voice spoke as I was shuffled into the common area at Blaise’s urging…

“Seriously!” I blurted out when he literally shoved me onto the sofa brushing against two others. The room seemed to be full of several green-clad individuals now, all abruptly quiet and curious as they gazed towards me. I squirmed into a better position and glared at Blaise who returned my look with a mocking one. I glanced to the brown-haired girl to my left then to my right, my eyes shifting down followed by a grin checking out the guy to my left… Sidh.

Seconds later the two girls from the dorm room stepped out to join the crowd too.

“Was in there reading… and not even studying… just some random novel…” I laughed at the offended tone in his voice… “That’s my friend Sidh on your left… Hayden on the right…Kane…” He started pointing out and naming the students surrounding me almost all of whom I would likely forget, “… everyone my sis Seff…”

“Ohh… I didn’t know you had a sis… well one your age…” the girl from the dorm chimed in, Tamsin. I couldn’t stop the smirk that was once again on my face while wondering who exactly she thought I was… but I was getting the impression that she had a crush, or something, on my brother. “You’re not a kid…”

“Ohh… my, you are an observant one! I just bet you get the bestest grades in Divination…”

“huh? I… sure I guess… I do okay… but…” she was completely clueless, and just kept on with a genuinely confused look plastered on her face… “aren’t you a bit old to be starting wizarding school?”

“Seff just transferred in… she’s not just starting” Blaise spoke up looking at the girl who looked as if she would speak again but he cut off any further comments by adding “no big deal… she’s here and in the right house… right where she’s supposed to be”

That seemed to pipe down any questions from her and everyone else in the room. The conversation turned towards the Hogwarts in general, and discussion about course offerings and even some talk about the N.E.W.T.S that were coming up for some of the students.

I am not sure how long we were there, a while… a hour or even two later someone abruptly stormed through the hall entrance causing several heads to turn in that direction but the female did not even slow down, just made a bee-line for the dorms and disappeared with a slam of the door. My brows rose but looks at a few of the other faces in the room, including Blaise and Sidh told me that they were not exactly surprised by the action.

“She’s taking it hard…” Sidh remarked and plucked a mug from the coffee table to take a sip.

“Can you blame her…? I mean…not only is he Gryffindor… but a bloody muggle too boot. Any of us would have been better… it’s ridiculous” Blaise bit out, “Hogwarts will be a joke…”

“What happen?” I blurt out

“Hogwarts ‘Champion’” Blaise sneered and then shook his head giving me all the explanation I needed. To say the least I was stunned. But when I glanced at Sidh, he didn’t seem as disgusted as Blaise was portraying. He shrugged though after catching my eye.

“Naz seemed to really want to be the champion and isn’t taking it well that the kid Nik got the position…”

“We all did… you put your name in there too, me… any of the three of us would have been better then him!”

“Oh…” was all I could think to say. I mean… I got it, I would be pissed too if I wanted something and some muggle ended up getting it over me. But then again, I wasn’t as invested in this little tournament of theirs as they all seemed to be. It was one of those Hogwart’s ‘things’ that Blaise was always on about. It also was strange to me that they pinned all of their school’s hopes on one student.

The room at large got a quiet and slowly people started to trickle out… Blaise was obviously brooding after the reminder of the days outcome burst in and headed to the dorm, so much in fact that he suddenly popped out of his chair and stormed out after excusing himself.

“Whelp… looks like tournament drama is a good way to clear out a room” I spoke, mostly to myself as I unfolded my legs from under me. Sidh laughed making me glance towards him.

“Yeah, it can be a touchy subject for some…”

“But not you?”

“I mean yeah, I wanted it… of course I wanted to be the champion. I’m just not gonna let it ruin my day…”

“Ahhh… so you’re Mister calm and collected hmmm?”

He smirked and his eyes light up, “pretty good way to sum me up sure… kinda laid back, kinda quick to catch on to things… pretty friendly…”

“How un-Slytherin of you…”

He chuckled, “Hey... I'm still green... and great! You think we all have to be explosive and moody?”

“I’d call it exuberant and passionate…”

“Pretty words…”

“What’s wrong with pretty words? I like all types of pretty things…” I grin as I twist sideways, facing him, tucking one foot back under my other leg. “most people prefer words that make them feel good…”

“yeah… but pretty words aren’t always true” he countered but he was grinning

“If you have a big enough vocabulary they can be…” I taunt…”I could easily state with certainty that both Blay and that other girl… um…”

“Naz…”

“yeah Naz… both of them looked super passionate tonight…”

“Aiming for a legislator career?” I scoffed then laughed.

“Absolutely not, I have much higher aspirations than that thank you very much” He grinned more in response then questioned me on what they were but I didn’t share, invoking a bit of mystery over a job that I knew was shrouded in secrecy. “Guess you will have to keep in touch with me to find out where I ended up some day…” earing me another course of laughter.

“You know we met before… right?” he mentioned after a slight pause in conversation.

“Yes, I remember… I guess, I assumed that you didn’t, obviously Blay didn’t remember…”

“No, I remember…” he paused as if considering what to say before he very slightly shook his head and added “would be odd if I forgot my friends not-twin sister that is the same age as him…”

“Ahhh… that’s why you remember me…”

“Is there some other reason I should…?”

There was another hesitation, this time from me as I blinked then nibbled on my lower lip and opened my mouth to answer only to be cut off before a sound came out…

“What are you two still doing up?”

My back had been to the center of the room and the hallway that led to the dorms, so I totally missed Blaise’s return. Spinning around I shifted and slipped my leg off the sofa and moved my own mug of water that I had barely touched since Sidh and I began our more private conversation.

“nothing really, just chatting… what time is it?”

My brother looked skeptical before shrugging and glancing towards the door to the dungeon. “I’m surprised no one has come to fuss about lights still being on…”

“Right, well yeah then I should get to bed.” I rose, not glancing back to Sidh as I walked to Blay and pressed a kiss on his cheek before going to my dorm room, the other girls all either chatting quietly or tucked into their beds. I didn’t say anything, slipped into my night clothes and snuggled in my new bed feet away from all the rest before releasing a sigh of relief.

It wasn’t really that I was exhausted, or that I was happy to be abed. Oddly enough, I was relieved I had not finished, or rather announced, the thought I had to Sidh’s question.

There was no reason that he should have remembered me for any personal reason. Perhaps it was time for that to change...

Zion
Unacquainted with any of the Durmstrang Students, but will meet and get to know him upon her arrival and the start of the tournament. She will likely find herself choosing to cheer on Zion in the tournament over routing for either the muggle Hogwarts or half-blood Beauxbatons champion.

DONE

No snippet for Zion as she will not have met him yet before the end of this casting round.

ROUND 1 - DONE

Last edited by BambiFoxx (07/09/2020 at 05:56)

Freya Ohlson, 17, Durmstrang
FC: Olivia Holt

Who is Freya?

About them:
loyal, organised, trustworthy, ambitious, family person, overprotective // impulsive, clumsy, blunt, impatient, always late, stubborn

Freya is the oldest daughter from Henrik and Savannah Ohlson. Her 11th birthday has caused quite the surprise when suddenly an owl with a letter for Durmstrang showed up. It is has been an overwhelming experience for both Freya and her parents. She has been pretty lost in her first year but managed to adapt over time. Freya has two younger sisters... Carina (14) is in her fourth year while Rebekka (11) has just started her first year.

The relationship with Gemma is an interesting one mainly due to Freya being the one who talks most of the time. But over the years she has learned that Gemma does have a caring side even if she doesn't show it often. She is the first person Freya turns to whenever she is facing a problem. It might not seem this way but Gemma isn't bad at giving at the advice... even if Freya always has to ask her what she is thinking.

Zion is one of the few people who didn't mind Freya being a Muggle-born. He had been among those who helped her find her way around Durmstrang and had no problem answering her questions... even if Freya might have been a bit too annoying. Zion is definitely the better Quidditch Player - Freya has no talent for flying - and it isn't strange to see them doing homework together despite a year difference between them.

Since her 4th year, Freya has a pen pal from Hogwarts... Jordan Green. She tries to write to him at least once a month which isn't always that easy. Now with being in Hogwarts, she met him for the first time... something she is pretty happy about.

Everything else:
- has a barn owl called Sif; she is a fan of Norse Mythology
- is happy that Zion is the Durmstrang Champion but also feels a bit disappointed that she wasn’t picked
- will likely cheer for him and Niklaus whom she met over Jordan
- when she isn’t required to dress in her uniform, she loves to wear pullovers, skirts, dresses and all kind of boots
- good at Transfiguration but sucks at Astronomy... she just doesn’t understand it or feels the need to learn about it

Interests: Gemma, Jordan, Niklaus & Zion




Camille Inés Beauchene, 34
FC: Michelle Trachtenberg

Who is Camille?

House/Home while you were in school: Beauxbatons

Subject you teach: Potions

Traits: Honest, out-going, helpful, charming, hard-working, curious, caring, intelligent // vain, strict, arrogant, good at holding grudges, stubborn, messy, gets annoyed easily, not a morning person

Dream: Camille has fulfilled most of her dreams already

Fear: something happening to her family (got worse once she became a mother)

Family and other relations:
Camille comes from a Pure-blood family and married into one 11 years ago.

Husband – Jules Beauchene, age 35; writes for the Witch Weekly (PIC)
Daughter  – Geneviève Beauchene, age 12
Son  – Damien Beauchene 7

Father  – Gustave Gallavardin, age 64; retired potions teacher
Mother  – Valérie Gallavardin (neé Durand), age 63; retired Healer
Brother  – Jacques Gallavardin, age 28; Auror
Sister  – Clarisse Gallavardin, age 23; currently on maternity leave

Camille is the oldest daughter of Gustave and Valérie. The first years for the family weren’t exactly easy with her father not always being at home and Valérie cancelled her Auror plans instead of starting training to be a healer in a magical hospital exactly like her own mother had been. So the little girl spent a lot of her time at her grandparents’ place switching between the Durands in England and the Gallavardins in Luxembourg. Things were going better when Gustave got the position in Beauxbatons as new Potions Teacher and Valérie’s shifts in the hospital were more regular and she didn’t need to work overnight anymore. Not that Camille did mind spending time with her grandparents; actually she had enjoyed it a lot hearing all the stories about their time in Hogwarts or Beauxbatons and she couldn’t wait till she would turn 11.

It was in Beauxbatons that she met Jules for the first time and while she would love to say that it was love at first sight... it wasn’t. He was a flirt and as much as she did enjoy his company Camille wasn’t willing to get her heartbroken. It needed an exchange year in Hogwarts for them to realise what they felt for each other. Not that it made their relationship easier as they were apart during Camille’s final year in Beauxbatons. Even afterwards she and Jules would keep breaking up – usually after a fight – only to get back together a few days later. Until Camille realised and tried to end it for good but she hadn’t considered Jules’ stubborn nature and that he wanted their relationship to work out because he had feelings for her.

Camille was 22 when they got engaged and Geneviève was born 4 months after their wedding… it was a bit of bad timing as she was in the middle of her training as potion master but her parents offered their support without hesitating once. Damien was born 2 years later and by that time she had started working in Beauxbatons along with her father. Jules decided to stay at home – it was easier for him to work from home anyway - and it was never easy for Camille to be away from her family… one of the reasons why they moved to a small village near Beauxbatons after her 25th birthday. Since Gustave’s retirement, she is the new potions teacher – not always an easy task – while Geneviève started her second year.

Every moments matters

More of a casual look than for the representation of the scene

The last day of summer… the last day Camille was able to spend with her family before she would be going back to Beauxbatons. Though this year Hogwarts was her destination as it was time for the Triwizard Tournament and while that did sound quite exciting – even for her as a teacher – she wasn’t sure what it meant for her plans to spend Christmas like usually... teaching at Beauxbatons despite how stressful it tented to be still meant seeing her family since they lived in a small village nearby.

“You can also just not go,” Jules suggested and pulled her closer against his body. It was early in the morning and they were enjoying the moment before their children would wake up, “I could even write you an excuse about how you had fallen ill.” He pressed a kiss on her bare shoulder.

“Well, it does sound tempting but you do know that I kind off have to be a role model for my students.” Camille pointed out before she turned around, “Even if I won’t be able to make it home for Christmas, it is only for a few months.” She placed her hand on his cheek, “Just don’t try and miss me too much, okay?”

“Miss you? Why would I miss you?” Jules asked and flashed her one of his usual charming smiles.

“Idiot.” She rolled her eyes.

“Maybe but I’m your idiot.” He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss on her lips.

Before Camille had any chance to react, the bedroom door was thrown open with a loud scream from Geneviève, “Mama! Papa!” the girl jumped into the bed and crawled into the space between Camille and Jules, “We have to get up or we will miss the carriage going to Beauxbatons.” She explained and crossed her arms.

“Is that so?” Camille asked and she had a hard time to hold back the laughter… it wasn’t her first time that her daughter proved to be quite forgetful – something she must have gotten from Jules.

“Loulou, we are leaving tomorrow.” Jules pointed out and ruffled Geneviève’s hair to which she protested loudly.

“Oh.” She replied and blinked a few times, “Good then I can go back to sleep.”

Camille chuckled as her daughter slipped under the covers and closed her eyes, “Is there something wrong with your bed?”

“Nope but yours is better,” Geneviève explained and looked at her parents like it should have been obvious... something she definitely got from Camille.

“You have to admit that she is right.” Jules smiled before he pressed a kiss on Geneviève’s forehead, “And it is way too early to get up.”

“Easy for you to say. You are not the one who has to deal with packing and everything else.” The dark-haired woman stated.

“My offer still stands... just stay here and if people come and ask for you, I’ll tell them you are sick.” He grabbed her hand and intertwined their fingers together.

“Don’t tempt me, Jules,” Camille warned him playfully... if only it was that easy but she had known about the disadvantages as she decided to become a teacher.

“I’m trying to sleep here.” Geneviève piped up which made both Camille and Jules laugh.

“Sorry, Loulou.” Jules kissed her forehead again before he leaned back into his pillow.

Camille did the same and she was almost asleep again when she heard soft footsteps... Damien stood at her side of the bed half asleep as he rubbed over his eyes.

She smiled softly as she helped him get into the bed too settling into the small empty spot next to his sister... it wasn’t the first time that the whole family ended up sleeping in the same bed. Camille pressed her lips together upon realising how much she was going to miss those small moments the next months. She swallowed hard at the sight next to her… Geneviève and Damien were curled up to next each other sleeping peacefully and unaware of the emotional turmoil she was going through. Camille reached over grabbing for Jules’ hand again.

“It is going to be alright.” He reassured her with a soft smile and squeezed her fingers.

Interests: Sibellius & Fletcher (both FI)

Last edited by schoggettchen (05/09/2020 at 21:49)

Form

Name: Leta Marielise Shillard

Face Claim: Taylor Hickson

Age: 17

Home: Beauxbatons

About them: Those who know Leta realize that underneath polite, quiet exterior lies talented witch that hides behind her insecurities. She keeps mostly to herself, save for people she is close to, but nevertheless she's the one who can help, if you know what to ask. As a half-blood, she may experience some comments from the pure-blood, but if she is angered, she may place few well-thought charms in retaliation... with none the wiser, as who would suspect the quiet ones?
And who would suspect that she will be picked as Beauxbatons' champion for the tournament? That got her few advices, but even more troubles as some thought she was undeserving... which gets to her, even though she won't show a thing.
She uses the tournament both as a test of skills and as a platform to more things, better access to information and perhaps some recognition. She doesn't know how it will turn out.
Fingers crossed, I won't end up useless.

Interests: Mathieu, Acel, James, Bryce

Everything else: Still has a crush on Mathieu, despite their different personalities. Still thinks of Acel as her best friend. Is slowly getting to know James and Bryce, the latter she met before. Has a little bit of trouble with Acel's fan club, after she was picked as a champion, some of the members were vocal about their disappointment. She's one of the few that doesn't have any pet.

Last edited by Siri (04/09/2020 at 21:21)

Name: Natalie "Naz" Green

Face Claim: Molle Gray

Age: 17

Home: Slytherin, Hogwarts

About: Born into a pure blood family, Naz has always grown up thinking she part of one of the best families in the wizarding world. Definitely not the best - her family (besides her twin brother, Jordan) are malicious and take advantage of others by using their wealth and status. However, they may be considered one of the more fortunate families. Naz has grown up with everything her heart desired, making her the spoilt young lady she is today. She's not used to hearing the word "no"

It was no surprise when Naz's Hogwarts letter arrived, although part of her shattered when her brother got one too. Whilst Naz was smart, her brother was easily smarter and had always beaten her grade-wise. She thought Hogwarts would be the place she would succeed, so when Jordan got his letter Hogwarts became yet another competition between the two, unknowingly to her brother.

Her first couple of years at Hogwarts were... interesting. Naz was the type of student who messed around in class, distracting others and never fully giving it her best. She'd give attitude to teachers, deliberately mess up other pupils' work and was often kicked out of class. However, she would often sneak off to the Forbidden Forest after hours, studying and making notes. Her grades were okay overall, but still no match to her brother's. The only class she did excel at was potions.

Naz has a very small yet close friendship group, limited to only other members of Slytherin. The group intimidate all those around them. If asked, Naz would say she runs the school.

Interests: Sidh (exes, but love/hate relationship), Rey (uses him to help with studies, but eventually starts to develop feelings for him), Blaise (close friends) and Niklaus (despises him) (will obviously be interacting with Jordan too).

Recap

Apparently, Sidh is her ex.
Was very desperate to be Hogwart's champion.
Wasn't happy that Rey caught her studying in the library.
Furious that Niklaus is the champion (punched him).

Last edited by Fashion-Chic (05/09/2020 at 13:29)

Name: Jude Collins

Face Claim: Emily Bader

Age: 17

House/Home: Ravenclaw * Hogwarts

About them: I have a love/hate relationship with magic in general, as a little kid I was always more impressed with my dad's ability to pull a wand out of his ear than I was with my mother apparating into my room if I had a nightmare or the pictures in our living room that moved. In fact the things that my mother and her family did terrified me and so even when she did things like give me a toy broom I'd pretend as if I didn't know what it was for. I had to stop pretending when I was 11 though and my letter from Hogwarts came.

"Thank goodness she's not defective like you Dorian." My mother shouted as she hugged me.

"Exciting day for you Jude." was all he said in response before walking out of the room.

It was that day that I learned what a squib was, sure I'd heard the word whispered about my dad but I always thought it was a nickname and not a reference to the fact that despite his parents and brothers having magic that he didn't have any. I remember crying that night, not because my dad didn't have magic but because it was the first time I realized my mother could be so cruel.

Things got worse after that. My mother expected me to be just like her now and I refused to be and when she got so unbearable that my dad left I went with him and she let me go because that was the same day I raised my wand at my mother...

Interests: Niklaus, Rey and Rodolphus

Everything else: I'll of course be cheering for Niklaus once the tasks get underway...and trying to stay off of Adelyn's radar (which may mean avoiding Rodolphus more than I'd like) so I don't end up shipped off to Ilvermornay before the tournament ends.

Casting done

Last edited by Dare (02/09/2020 at 01:38)

♡ Cherry

♡ Name Mary- Grace Hadwin
♡ Face Claim Kelsey Calemine

♡ Nickname Cherry Blossom
♡ Age 17

♡ House/Home Ravenclaw, Hogwarts
♡ Interests Holly, James, Rey and Ruff

♡ About me

Traits- Loyal, Witty, Responsible, Humble, Energetic,
Lazy, Takes little serious, Loud- mouth, Trust issues& Mother hen.
Born into a respected pure blood family that on both side is usually placed into Ravenclaw. The tradition was broken, however, when her older brother was placed into Hufflepuff. Her parents were horrified. Cherry was in glee her older brother should learn to relax and there was a big change she would be placed into Hufflepuff, her dream house.

Her parents had given up on Cherry as soon as she turned 6 and only got that amount on her papers. Her brother was the one that was always in the books getting 10s but also always stressed over any book. So while growing up, Cherry chose to not study and just enjoy school even though she was more than capable to get 10s she got a kick if she saw her parents frustrated her faces when she showed another 6. Her parents never wondered how she always seems to get a perfect six, making purposely mistakes, she was a happy child.

But to all their surprise, including Cherry, she was placed into Ravenclaw. She tried to trick the hat but sometimes fate doesn’t let you trick it.
Even though she was placed into Ravenclaw that doesn’t mean she pressed herself into books to study. Much to her brother's annoyance because he still feels like he was wrongly placed and searching for a way to get into Ravenclaw. So seeing her sister enjoy free-time at the Hufflepuff hang out place does little to their already estrange relationship.

Cherry does get better results she just chose to enjoy all Hogwarts has to offer. Which means from inventing stuff to being mischief to enjoying parties. All she loves to do with her friend Holly, whenever she can. Who happens to be a Huff-puff.

Her two younger siblings were placed into Gryffindor/ Ravenclaw

♡ And everything else

♡ Has been painting her hair pink since it was allowed by her parents for getting herself into Ravenclaw.
♡ Hates her latest punishment she feels tired all the time.
♡ Fears frogs but loves all other animals.
♡ Designed a phone to talk with Holly and play games while in class. Looks like Iphone but works more like a walkie-talkie
♡ Has a love for banana ice-cream.
♡ Likes wearing cute things even changed her uniform.
♡ Excited for the Triwizard but never saw the appeal to participate will cheer for Niklaus.

♡ James (brother) not the best of their relationship and Mary almost had a heart attack when she saw him throw his name in the goblet which only shows she cares more for him than she likes to admit, especially when James never reciprocate those feelings.

♡ Holy (best friend) Kind off a little sister, partner in crime, soulmate let's do what we want under the knee. Cherry being sometimes the more genius one to make her ideas come to life. She enjoys their mischievous incredibly. Their last one did get them into one of their worst punishment so far.

♡ Ruff (best friend) Always there if Cherry needs someone also the first one to note her hair change and calling her Cherry Blossom. Mary likes that he shows more and more of himself, letting his horrible mask fall. His sarcasm is intact, however, which Cherry could never do without.

♡ Rey (ex-boyfriend) They broke up two years ago bit still talk to each other regularly or that was last year this year he seems more distant and Cherry hasn’t had the chance to talk to him about it, mainly because he seems to ignore her.

★ Ricky

★ Name Richard Johnson
★ Face Claim Erin Mommson

★ Nickname Ricky Rick
★ Age 17

★ House/Home Hufflepuff, Hogwarts
★ Interests Bryce, Holly, James and Niklaus

★ About me

★ Traits 
Social, Prankster, Naïve, Flirty, Loyal, Hides Feelings, Crafty, Slow, Short-fuse, Holds grudges, Materialistic.

Ricky is an social person always there for you to talk too. He may prank you some days later that’s when he considers you a friend. He loves meeting new people, talking with them and getting to know them. He can be naive when it comes to every aspect of lives, especially the whole house thing and muggle born, pure born, he doesn’t care unless you gave him reason to care. He doesn’t show his true feelings doesn’t like to get hurt, prefers to hide them until it’s too late, and he blows up the person on the other end who will get his full wrath. Not the brightest in the bunch, but his enthusiasm makes him loved by the people he surrounds himself with. He can be materialistic, a twat bit too much, the only time he may snap at a person is when they touch his stuff without his permission. Does not care much for forgiveness for him when you burn the bridge is burn and you better leave him alone.

★ Dream  Designing his own brand and owning a clothing boutique.
★ Fear  Being depressed

★ Favourite subject Charms
★ Least favourite subject Divination

★ Because he was the only child that got whatever he wanted he fell in love with gaming, having a slight addiction, telling his parents I only been on it for 20 minutes while it had been hours.
★ WoW is his favourite game.
★ Has a dislike to fogs always thinks he gets lost.
★ Would love to travel the world someday.
★ Has no issue with knitting in the winter, don't judge his grandmother tough him, it was better than listening to war stories according to his mother.
★ Loves to wear a good bow-tie.
★ Has a dislike for riddles always asks Cherry for answers.
★ Hidden talent is that he can juggle.
★ His favourite date would be picnic under a starry night.
★ Love the 90s, music, clothing, vibe etc.
★ Is the keeper for Hufflepuff in quidditch games.
★ Has two fingers tattooed one saying live well another of Yin&Yang
★ Had an eating disorder due to stress.
★ Likes the smell of woman perfume which can make him seem creepy, but he doesn't care, Holly's smell is the best.
★ Loves the S*x but likes to make love.
★ Guy that actually listens or pretends too when the woman talks, gives the right advice after though.
★ Was super happy for Niklaus when his name was called, but also felt sorry for James, sucks when you have so many firends.

★ Outfit

★ Uniform

credit to google

★ Family and other relations

Seventeen years ago Ricky Rick was born, his mother a muggle born magician and his father a pureblood magician. He grew up in a happy home, being an only child he had all his parents' attention but it did get a little lonely when his parents went to work, and he stayed with his grandparents. His Magic abilities magnified pretty young, his imagination working in his favour.

However, one downfall in the family was when Ricky Rick went to Hogwarts his 1st year just to come home to find his mother battling depression. It shook Ricky to his core. His mother had a burn out before it went into a heavy depression. It is a scary thing to experience. Ricky refused to go his 2nd year to Hogwarts, wanting to stay with his mother, but both parents pushed him too. It was then that he started to hide his home troubles behind a big smile and flirty personality.

I would like to say his mother got better but after more depression, she was sent to an psychiatry hospital which she stayed at until last year. His mother is doing better, but it left a deep scare on Ricky Rick. He would hate to feel the same his mother felt all those years.

★ Father (52)- Rowan Johnson, Pure blood, Banker
★ Mother (54)- Helena Johnson, Muggle born, used to own her own flower shop.

★ Holly (Friends at the moment)- The love of his life or so, he says, he likes to flirt with Holly and look after her, the girl has a soft spot in his heart, Cherry always teases him with her love for Holly.

★ James (Roommate/ friends)- It’s someone he would like to open up to if James wasn’t the guy too self-observe in his studies if it wasn’t for Ricky puling him away from books. Ricky would be scared the male won’t even eat.

★ Bryce (Friends)- He learned all his flirt techniques from the maestro or, so he likes to joke with Bryce.

★ Ruff (Friends)- The guy has such a poker face, no wonder he always loses to him.

★ Niklaus (Friends)- This helped him by just talking when Ricky felt really low, Ricky didn’t open up but it was nice to hear Niklaus talk and keep his mind from his mother for a short time he will always be thankful to Niklaus for that not thrilled that Naz slapped him at all. The guy works harder than anyone and therefore friends if they need you.

★ Also Jordan (acquaintance)- He isn’t as close to Jordan as he is with the rest, but always there for a chat with the male.

Knows much more, but this is the ones he associated with the most.

Last edited by NinaJones (06/09/2020 at 15:41)

Name: Manon Cuvelier
Face Claim: Iva Varvarchuk
Age: 16
School: Beauxbatons

About them: Manon is fickle, frivolous and self-indulgent. She likes pretty things and comfort, and gets easily excited—only to get bored just as easily. Her mother, Anaïs, is a Potioneer and a Mediwitch, while Jean, her father, is a muggle, and works as a Marine Biologist. She has an older brother, Mathieu, who's studying in Beauxbatons as well. She has a lot of idle knowledge about the most random, possibly useless things, mostly gathered through muggle magazines or TV-shows, or through some obscure magical tome, like ’561 Ways An Hercules Beetle Can Improve Your Life’. She's usually sociable and warm. She claims she doesn’t like to be judged with superficiality, but she does it herself all the time, and she can be kind of careless with people, not always thinking of the consequences of what she does or says. On the other hand, she is surprisingly methodical when it comes to magic, school and all related activities. She has a pet rat named Herbert.

GREEN AVENTURINE FOR OPPORTUNITY (DONE)

Bathilda Bagshot has a lovely writing style, Manon thinks. The newest edition of ‘Hogwarts: A History’—the one Manon borrowed from Clement—has a long, emotional preface written by none other than Hermione Granger, and additional notes and revised paragraphs all throughout. Manon remembers being just a few pages in, the night before. Then, before she knew it, the sun had colored the lake in dawn-pink, and she had had to say goodbye to her beauty sleep. A shame, really. And yet, nothing some peppermint and dittany infusion cannot deal with.

“I think Herbert likes you,” she tells the ghost. From her lap, her rat squeaks contentedly at the friar.

“Well, of course he does, young one. I am quite likable, I am told.” The sunlight shifts as clouds stroll by outside the window and, for a moment, the human shape glimmers slightly. It’d be pretty, if it wasn’t for the whole death ordeal. “Your rat is a good listener.”

“He is,” she agrees, and feeds Herbert another sunflower seed. “There’s a portrait with a tag that says ‘Nicholas Flamel’, in Beauxbatons—he studied there, you know—but it’s always been empty. No one knows if he actually died or not, in the end.”

“Ah, yes, quite the dangerous little thing he had brought in here. Let us hope he’s finally at peace, shall we?” That’s kind of an ironic statement, coming from a ghost, but Manon isn’t about to point that out. “Do you mind, my dear? I would like to make sure Peeves—that’s our poltergeist, and not a pleasant one at that—isn’t already scaring our guests away…”

“Of course! Of course,” she replies. “Thank you for your time.”

“Say hello to your other nosy friend, yes? Georgia was it?”

Manon smiles. She imagines Gia hasn’t moved from where she left her, buried under fluffy duvets and complaining about the damp cold of this place. Well. Not that she’s wrong, exactly. “Will do.”

What she learns is: every little thing has a story to tell, in here. And she does not mean it metaphorically or poetically.

She stumbles onto the portrait of an old witch with a ferret, who talks endlessly about her role in the Goblin Rebellions while Herbert and the ferret hiss at each other from afar. Manon sort of regrets this whole thing about snooping around. You don’t argue with the walls, you know. So, she does not say that the goblins have pretty much every right to protest.

She’s rescued by the arrival of someone else, even footsteps on the old stone. A lanky boy in an Hogwarts uniform, blue and bronze accents around his collar and over his chest. He’s carrying books with him, and looks like he could use some sleep, as well.

He raises an eyebrow. Like he’s waiting. And yes, she’s slow, but she gets it, eventually. “I was looking for you!”

Both of his eyebrows disappear under his bangs. “Were you, now?”

“Well. Not yet,” she confesses, and her smile stretches wider. “But I was going to, at some point!”

That pulls a small chuckle out of him, as he moves a couple of steps closer. The ferret hasn’t stopped hissing, even as its owner tries to gently coax it and shush it. Rey eyes the portrait, and then Herbert. Then he looks back at her. “Have the two of you been snooping around much?”

“A little bit. I have green aventurine for opportunity and labradorite for serendipity, Rey,” she explains. “At some point, something has got to have to give.” Rey blinks slowly at her, and she breathes in. “Right. You are not big on crystal magic, here. I forgot,” she murmurs.

For one, Rey looks scruffier than she imagined him to be. A little sharper around the edges. A little more intimidating-looking than she expected. Which is quite alright, really. It’s good to be able to attach a face to the words.

Manon tips her head to the side, and tells him so: “It is nice to see your face.”

“It is.” His eyes drop on her rat. “Hello, Herbert.”

Herbert preens under the attention like the spoiled little thing that he is, then dives back into the big pocket of her coat. “Can I follow you back to the Great Hall? The stairs keep…” Manon tries, and gestures with her hand back and forth, “you know.”

Rey moves his books from an arm to the other, and slips his free hand inside one of his pockets. He digs out a little piece of parchment. Oh, Manon thinks. Oh, that’s right. “I was headed there anyways.”

___________________________________

The Beauxbatons Champion ended up being Leta. Which is awesome. Leta has always been incredibly nice and talented, and Manon knows she and Math are friends. The celebration involved an uncanny amount of lemon meringues and almond mousse cakes, and enough spiced, sweet wine that the harsh Hogwarts’ weather seemed almost pleasant, by the end of.

Now, as the Tournament is finally very close and very real, there’s a buzz excitement everywhere on the school’s grounds.

Manon grimaces. It’s a relief to be able to do that. There’s just so long that you can keep up with the perfect posture, the butterfly-light steps, the small smiles. Just so much delicate and pretty and silky that a human being can provide, really. They are asked to keep the image up. Sometimes, Manon leaves the crowded rooms just to breathe. Or, like, scratch an itch on her elbow. Sneeze.

Right now, she’s sure she isn’t looking very dignified, for example.

“You are not very nice,” she says, and raises Herbert a little bit more, to bring it further away from the ground.

The cat hisses, lowered down on the stone like it was about to leap, and Herbert squeaks. Challenging, not afraid. Which isn’t helping at all. He’s got a mean bite, Manon will give him that, but the cat looks particularly evil.

“Not nice at all,” she repeats.

“Whoa! Sorry! Wait, I’ll—” There’s some scrambling, unfolding in front of her. A heap of limbs and freckles and curly hair that tries to get a hold of the cat. “Yes. She’s not nice. Possessed by evil. I am sorry.”

Manon blinks, and looks curiously at the scene. The boy avoids a clawed paw out of sheer luck. “Have you tried sage smudges yet?”

The boy laughs a little. Meanwhile, the cat has finally quieted down in his arms and, Manon could swear it, she’s purring. How terrifying. “Rat’s okay?”

“He is. He was ready to fight,” she replies, and hesitates. “I know your face.”

The boy—the Hogwarts Champion—frowns. “You do?”

She rummages through her bag, until her fingertips brush over some round, cold object. She pulls it out, waits for the spell to activate, and then shows it to him.

“Oh,” he says, as he stares at his own face on the enchanted badge. “Oh. I am sorry about that, too.”

Manon grins. “Your friend was very certain you’d be picked. I think she managed to give away a lot, with no discrimination for schools or houses.”

“She’s… very certain,” the boy replies, with a smile that looks definitely fond. “In general. As a character trait.”

Quietly, Manon slips the badge back into her bag, and clutches Herbert a little tighter, and a little closer. The cat is still purring, but she does not trust it at all. “Well. Good luck, then.”

“Yeah. Thanks.”

“Lavender and blue sage, or cedar and white sage. Either of those.”

“Would that really do anything?”

Manon smiles. “No,” she answers. “Smells nice, though.”

Last edited by siddh (09/09/2020 at 13:33)

Sofia Elizabeth Morgan
Charms Professor at Ilvermorny
Face Claim: Grazi Massafera
Age: 38
House/Home while you were in school: Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, sorted into Thunderbirds
Wand Ash and Thunderbird tail feather, 14 ¼’’, hard flexibility

Traits: Resilient, survivor. Intelligent, yet temperamental. Charming, charismatic, if she wants to be. Organized, but only because she tends to procrastinate. Independent, even self-sufficient. Finds it hard to keep faith.
Dream: there are goals, and there is wishful thinking – she believes she is too old for dreams.
Fear: any Andrei-related peril.

Family and other relations
Andrei Gusarov, son – the apple of her eye, source of her concern, the biggest love she will ever encounter, the greatest riddle she will (most likely) never solve, the most ambitious project she took upon, the reason why she feels old and the person that keeps her young.
Aleksei Gusarov, her former lover, short-lived ex-husband, a good friend, an individual who knows her more than most, and she still holds a great deal of love for the man who gave her Andrei.

Story
Perhaps it’d be an understatement to say Sofia leads an interesting life.

She was born into a family of Ukrainian dragonologists with absolutely no intention of staying in the family business – she loved being surrounded with dragons (who can blame her?) but at the end of the day her dreams seemed bigger, brighter and a little bit more imaginative than doing what your mom and dad did. Head in the clouds, with an abundance of energy and lots of things she wanted to try, Sofia followed her parents wherever they went. Seeing how the American continent was lacking in dragon reserves, they decided to give hand in creating one, in turns moving to the USA. Sofia enrolled in Ilvermonry and got assigned to Thunderbirds. The early school years proved to be a bit more demanding than she had expected: she was smart but utterly lazy and very much stubborn. She’d get into trouble easily, she was vocal about everything she believed in and oftentimes than not it would get her into trouble.

She discovered early on she had a particular talent for Charms, and it took her an eternity to come to terms her great big talent is not something far more exciting. Sofia balanced her talent and bluntness well, nowadays she jokes it was the best balancing act she had managed to do for quite some time. Looking back, she thinks she could have done a bit more in following her own gut rather than trying to conform to ideas her family had for her, but in hindsight, her education years were just right. She took all the opportunities that studying in Ilvermonry provided her, taking several years to study abroad in Koldovstoretz, Castelobruxo and eventually even Hogwarts, which seemed like the poorest of timings.
Or, according to her, the best frightful times she could have wished for.

At the age of 16, she found herself there during the Second Wizard War – she fought, she witnessed the horrors and she survived, even though it did change her for good. She learnt to take each day as a gift, she learnt to do what she truly loved, she learnt to go with her gut even if it meant doing a wrong choice from time to time.

For the first couple of years of their marriage, she would say – often over a good glass of elf-made wine – their love was born from the flames of battle. And for the most time, they seemed to have held onto the feeling. Aleksei, tall, dark, handsome heir, seemed to be enchanted by her, and before either could figure out life, they made a new one. It seemed right, family with a shady history accepting a witch from a dragon-dealing family, seemed just about right. The child coming into the play far too soon seemed about right.

Andrei was born well into the 5th year of their relationship, and 3 years before they finally decided that energy they put into trying to make it work into something that actually stood a chance. They have remained friends, and often seek out each other’s support and friendship, raising Andrei in a very loving environment: they are family, after all.

Sofia tried working for the Ministry for a short while as an Auror, finding the life of politics to be quite uneventful to her. She returned to the USA shortly after, getting a job with the Office for Magic Relations and Education at the Magical Congress of the USA, which eventually led her to her current position at the Ilvermorny.

She’s quite happy there, so far, but believes she will get that restless feeling soon enough and want to move to another location.

DONE.

Last edited by Zaralee (08/09/2020 at 23:51)

ROUND 1 CLOSED.
ROUND 2 CLOSES: 9th OF September, 20:00h

Surprises

“You beast,” Nela’s throwing herself on Niklaus as soon as he enters the Gryffindor common room and the whole home of Godric Gryffindor chants his name in excitement. He’s face shows confusion and surprise because a while ago he could have sworn some of them didn’t even know his name and now all of a sudden they’re very loudly showing support, “I hate you sooooooooooooo much,” she adds. Of course she does. She’s jealous.

“She’s not lying, you know,” Jordan, unlike the rest of the overly enthusiastic room, is leaned on the couch with a smirk on his face, “She’s been throwing some metal stars into the walls,” he points at the shurikens that were dug into the wall. Nela shrugs with a smile.

“I’m glad I’m not the wall,” Niklaus lets out a breath which doesn’t really depict if he’s scared or relieved, “Sorry,” he adds as if he has something to apologise for. And maybe he does. Nela’s levels above him in both the physical compartment, mental one and magical one - then how come he was chosen? DId she maybe misspell her name?

“That’s okay, I’m cool enough without that already, you needed a boost,” she says overly confident and Jordan actually looks slightly irritated with that comment. He raises a brow.

“Don’t be a sour loser, Nels, you know very well Niklaus is our hidden gem,” he chips in.

“Was,” Nela seems irritated, “Now everyone will want to have piece of him,” she’s actually bothered and Niklaus and Jordan both seem a bit taken aback with that switch of her usually bubbly and over the top personality. 

“Nels, you know you’re…,” Niklas stops, “That I’ll always be yours,” he correct himself looking at the two gems of people in front of him. Then he realises how that sounds as soon as both of his friends look at him in utter shock and pure disgust, “God, no, disgusting, you guys - how does your mind even wander that way,” Nikalus reacts in an equally disgusted tone, “She’s like a mother to me,” he adds and they both raise brows to that as well.

“Nik, you’re digging your grave, stop before you say something even more stupid,” Jordan tells him to chill and Nel nods, agreeing, jumping up and pressing something onto his chest.

“I get it, I’m very motherly - still, too young to be that, honey,” she points out and throws herself straight onto Jordan on the couch, with a loud “ompoh” and him cursing all the deities after her body slams into his. Jordan sighs and ruffles her hair in return.

“Next time please watch out for the ribs,” he mumbles while Niklaus is busy looking at the badge Nela placed onto his chest. When did they have time to make those already? Only now he notices everyone in the room has one.
“When?” he seems confused, placing spells on those could not have been done that shortly, no matter who did it. 

“Your momma got them done the moment you entered your name,” Jordan winks at him and Nela smiles as well.

“There was absolutely no question who’d be chosen,” she shrugs, “And just in case I ordered a box of my faces and a box of Jordan’s faces,” she shrugs and Nik smirks back. 

“As soon as I win that money, Nels, I’ll tattoo your face on my butt, I promise,” he jokes and leaves the hectic room, ignoring Nela’s cries for an unbreakable vow.

1975 - Chocolate

***

The celebration in the Slyitherin dormitories of the Durmstrang students is loud and festive as well when Zion enters the common room it becomes even louder and even more festive. 

“Congratulations,” Gemma smiles and Zion thanks her with a grin as some other person pats him with far too much familiarity on the back.

“Yeah, this will give me a nice push in the future,” he smirks, only thing in mind are the future goals this might help him achieve. Gemma smiles. She lacks the understanding for that type of motivation. 

“I guess then all will be worth it in the end,” she leans forward onto the railing that is separating the entrance from the living room, “Even some Slytherins seem to enjoy you being chosen over their own champion,” she adds, actually not that surprised and nudges her chin towards Blaise and the people surrounding him.

“Yeah, I don’t think it’s because of my competence whatsoever,” Zion makes a remark and Gemma agrees with a very visible nod, to which he fakes taking an offence, “Well, that wasn’t very nice,” he points out and she seems embarrassed.

“You’re a marvellous person and wizard, Zion,” she seems a bit out of it, “It’s just-” she tries to form what she wants to say without it sounding offensive, but he can’t stay serious this time. He lets out a muffled laugh, “I will assume you thought this would be funny,” Gemma notices.

“It was funny,” he assures her, when Blaise moves in with a handshake to congratulate.

“You can rest assured Slytherin will root for you,” he tells Zion seriously and Zion thanks for the support, while Blaise surreptitiously slides in between him and Gemma. An action too deliberate to be seen as natural. 

 “I’ll join the others to thank for the support as well,” he makes up an excuse for what seems to be a matter for which his presence isn’t required and slides down the stairs with a few confused glances and furrowed brows.

Billie Eilish - Everything I wanted

***

"Are you as surprised as I am?" Mathieu asks but he seems jolly and somehow got his hands on some butterbeer. The Ravenclaws, even if they welcomed them warmly and even if they joined in to the celebration, they shamelessly smile and assure all the Beauxbatons students that Niklaus will be the champion in the end. Acel and Matieu just chuckle to that and leave.

"Quite," Acel nods, "But quite pleasantly," he adds and feels happy for Leta, even if slightly jealous.

"Let's throw glitter at her," Mathieu suggests and Acel smirks back, readying his wand as the door tilts open. And when a blond head pops out a loud bang with an explosion of glitter is heard.

We Are the Champions

The date of the first task arrived. You're seated in the arena. Excitement is palpable. The tournament organiser stands in front of you and speaks up:

Muggles have a very interesting concept of an  escape room in which - you guessed it - have to escape the room. Inspired by that we'll start the first task. The contestants will enter three separate but identical rooms and will have to escape them within an half an hour . A limiting spell has been cast on their wands and they are allowed to use their wands for five spells, no more . 

Champions. Please enter your rooms. 

...

Now that the champions have entered their rooms, you'll notice the vendors standing next to you. They are carrying a pair of binoculars with which you all can enter the precise same room and try it out yourselves almost risk free - unlike our champions. It'll be easier for you in groups of randomly chosen three people!  

Can you (together) do better than our champions?

***

You enter the room, Music is playing. There's a stage with a set of orchestral instruments playing music loudly on their own. The sound isn't unpleasant, just quite loud. Since the binoculars were on the cheaper side, unlike the champions you enter this room in groups of three, depending on which binoculars seem to be connected with the same swish of  wand. (List will be posted below). However, that means you get to work as a team!

Teamwork is dreamwork!
Right?

There is a huge bunch of other things all over the place and quickly you realise finding anything without knowing precisely what you're looking for would be impossible. 

In front of the stage there is a table with a clear parchment. No ink is to be found. 

However, words appear. 

This grandma sits still and ready
but during summer she's a useless old lady.
Then winter arrives, however, - or even fall,
and all of a sudden she's loved by all.

You realise you have to solve the riddle in order to get out. 
So, do yo know what we're looking for?

Solutions

TASK 1 Part 2 (fireplace, fire)

"Incendio," you whisper and a fire starts in the fireplace, flames dancing and swirling all around the room.

They don't burn.

Instead they form words.

It always runs but never leaves its place.

What is that, I wonder?

The music grows louder. Uncomfortably loud.

TASK 1 Part 3 (clock, time)

"Alohomora," you cast a spell  and the weird little lock on the big pendelum clock unlocks rearranging the numbers on the clock into words.
The pendelum swings loudly, numbing the growing forte of the musical instruments. The noise is unbearable.

Right now I'm not present here,
and if you say my name
I disappear.

Do you know what I am?

TASK 1 End (silence)

"Silencio," you shout out loud,
since the violins, violas, harps and whatnots
dim you completely out.

There's no sound more, no word,
Absolutely nothing is heard.

All of a sudden - finally - you can think.
In an eerie, but much wanted, silence
The sounds, noise and music turn into ink.

The once clear parchment
is now marked by words:

A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you.

The door opens,
you're done and there's the way,
Remember the last riddle,
until due day.

I repeat; the champions enter alone. (Leta, Niklaus, Zion)

While others have Binocular Dreamteam Partners:
Freya - Jordan - Gemma
Jude - Rey - Mathieu
Mary - Rodolphus - Holly - Ricky
Naz - Nela (as soon as she realises it's Naz she'll punch you in the face mercilessly)- Sidh (he's fond of Nela so he'll be amused) - 
Persephone - Bryce - James
Manon - Blaise - Tuesday

Luna, Acel, Andrei --> if you'd like to exchange one of your partners for one of this or just add one of these into your group, ask so in post

Can't recognise some of the names? Well, that's because they're totally new! All of a sudden these two gorgeous, charming guys come and introduce themselves as guest-students from Ilvermony. Tuesday and Andrei. It seems they have just joined to witness the famous Triwiz Tournament. And you get introduced to some new "grown-ups" as well. Here, get to know them:

Newsies

Name:  Tuesday Luca May
Face claim:Froy Gutierrez
Age: 18
About them:
Tuesday is one of a kind. He's affectionate, charming and yet there isn't a person in the world that dislikes him. He oozes this fine note of confidence and trust and draws people in very naturally. It's as if he posses some kind of spell over people, making them feel very comfortable and welcome around him. He's a jokster and enjoys puns and spiting out fun facts - which do not have to be true at all. He usually uses these tactics when he needs to get someone out of an uncomfortable situation and it usually works pretty well. For once because nobody expects it or could be perhaps because it's not even his place to meddle in. Tuesday is kind and one could call him loyal, if being loyal to a huge pool of people all at once counts as loyalty. Oh, yeah, and he's a half-blood, if that matters to you. 



Name:  Andrei Gusarov
Face claim: Miles McMillan
Age: 18
About them: 
Andrei was born into a wealthy family in Moscow, which has a bad reputation - which was actually never proven. Supposedly their riches have been built on selling magical artifacts in the muggle world. But, supposely only.
Andrei was always a smart kid, who didn’t study much/at all but managed to do good in everything because he was the kind which listened and remembered everything. So he rarely forgets anything he had learnt or just heard and trying to convince him you didn’t say something but another thing will be unsuccessful – he remembers exactly what you said. He is quite laid back and you’ll practically never see him stressed out. He rarely gets upset over trivial matters, but when you do him wrong in some bigger way, like lie to him regarding important things, there’s not really a chance he’ll let it slide. He’s not fond of group work because people seem to sense a natural leader and him and set him for the position even if he doesn’t want it and he never wants it because responsibility is not a thing he does. At least not willingly. Conversationwise he is very pleasant to be around and for some - unknown to him or others - reason people really have the need to tell him everything. There is a legend he was conceived under a trust spell so he has this kind of effect on people. 


Name: Cassandra Mills Bogdanov
Face claim: Catherine Zeta Jones
Age: 50
About them: Tournament Officiant and celebrated Journalist
Cassandra is world famous filthy rich heiress, influencer and journalist. Her political ties are so strong she can get anywhere at any time and when she asked to officiate the tournament no sounds of disagreeing were heard. This career, however is her secondary hobby. Her true passion lied in journalism, not the good one I'm afraid. She's got an amazing ability to find out everything and put it brutally honest and hurtful onto paper. It's a gift she says but anybody featured in her articles would disagree. Not only is she officiating the tournament, but she is also leading the whole press coverage for it. Now you might make a mistake and conclude she does it on her own - no, no, no. There is a whole slew of people working on this tournament and while tracking the progress of it and deeply focusing on the candidates she has decided to open a few columns as a treat for the other students as well. You might think this type of gossip columns is way too low for a person of such high profile, but she is thoroughly enjoying it, remending herself of the teenage angsty days she once had. So, stay alert. She's listening.


Name: Sibellius Nonàme
Face claim: Chris Pine
Age: 37
About them: Principal of Beauxbatons
Sibellius is an exquisite principal, who manages to get numerous opportunities for his school to be famous all over the globe for it's impressive offer of extracurricular activities. His students are obliged to attendat least three of those for their own personal development. He is half Veela and beauty and especially his ego shows for it. He’s  galant though, when he isn’t rude, mocking and condescending. But since he seems and sounds sweet and sugary at first, you might not realise you're being roasted until sarcasm hits you full force. So unless you're one of those people who admire him and his successes, at start he might rub you the wrong way. But give him a moment or two and he'll start growing on you because of his warm and caring nature.


Name: Fletcher Krum
Face claim: Idris Elba
Age: 40
About them: Principal of Durmstrang
Fletcher has a hard exterior, intimidating to almost everyone, and he can be harsh - truthful, in his mind. He doesn’t care about accommodating people to his words, because he really does think them. One of his many quirks is that he simply can’t tolerate any mumbling. There’s nothing that seems to irk him as much as people not speaking out properly. He is also unlike any principal of Durmstrang yet. In what way you might ask? He's the first one who openly refused to continue teaching dark arts in his school. After a huge backlash and some twenty years, the situation has finally settled down and now Durmstrang's reputations seems better than ever. It seems that this man can give a proper lesson on bravery and dealing with adversity. And even if he might not seem this way at first glance he cares about his students the most.

ROUND 1 REQUIREMENTS
- interests (max 4 - to get impressions you need to use the extras)
- attempt to escape the room - send me your guess for the riddle's answer via PM to get the next riddle of the task, you have 24 hours for the riddle before the next one is publicly posted together with the answer.
- writiting about the escape room attempt. 
- other interactions about whoever you want with whomever you want ( I will direct you through impressions)

Last edited by Tonkolina (06/09/2020 at 20:11)

Impression-like things

I have very little time on my hands so I’ll try posting impressions this round in a form of dialogues with characters, sometimes more people come at once, sometimes just one so catch your name in the title to see in which dialogues you appear. The whole thing  is somewhat linked so it isn’t a bad idea to read through it all.
Next round I will only post personalised tasks with some insights.


Naz
“What happened to your face?!” Nela seems shocked when Niklaus enters with a big fat bruise on his eye, “Did you forget not to step on rakes? Nik, my son, you have to bend and pick it up,” she starts mocking but checks if the bruise seems to hurt.
“Our favourite little baby sister,” Nik replies with a grin, since for some reason he sees that as utterly amusing.
“What is wrong with your family, seriously?” she looks at Jordan with an accusation and he’s just lifting his hands in surrender, honestly and completely disappointed in his sister and the way she behaves. He keeps clinging onto the thought that she’s grow up and just calm down, but it seems as if she’s actively fighting against precisely that. Stubborn mule.
“Their brains are wired differently,” Jordan uses an expression he learnt in muggle studies, because it seems the brain functions like electricity for them and therefore is wired. Nik is still laughing.
“It’s really not funny anymore,” Nela for some reason decides not to jump in in the laughing and joking wagon, “Who knows what she’ll do next time, I honestly don’t think she’s above anything,” she adds and Jordan bites the insides of his cheeks - because he, too, thinks she would stoop as low as needed on this matter.
“Nels, this is like the first time she actually hates me for a reason,” Nik points out with a grin when both of them look his way, “And the first time she actually touched me - you know I repel her,” he points out.
“You’re going to milk this, aren’t you?” Jordan realises, “You’re going to make her hate you for the tournament instead of nothing, aren’t you,” he adds tired.
“I’ll just subtly show off wherever I can,” he shrugs.
“Niklaus will show off?” Nels mouth is agape, “You’re actually able to do that?!” she adds in a joke and fake shock.
“No, but I have you to do it for me,” he tilts his head with a pretty please smile, making both of them chuckle.
“Fine, from now on I’m your PR manager,” Nela agrees.
“I’ll just talk about you constantly to Naz every attempt of a conversation,” Jordan chips in, first time actively deciding his side of this argument. Nik and Nela notice, however they decide not to point it out. They just look at each other briefly when Jordan’s attention gets stolen by another Gryffindor asking him a question.

Jude
“Will you run to Jude so she can fix your face,” Nela is now teasing Nik while changing all of the badges with her and Jordan’s face into Niklaus badges - or Naz stinks badges when Jordan’s not looking. Hig glance immediately travels to the table she’s sitting at, right next to Reynard, with whom he had never had a proper discussion to know more than what he’s been told by others. He’d be lying if he were to say he didn’t find Jude interesting. And unlike the rest of the people he usually finds interest in, she wasn’t a pain in the butt like some were, his eyes draw back to Nel.
“Is the Potter related to “the Potter” he asks Nela curiously to which she shrugs, never actually making the connection.
“He’s not,” Rodolphus seems to appear behind his back, startling the fresh champion, “Just came to wish luck,” he informs NIk and raises a brow at the bruise but doesn’t comment on it, “Ready for the task today?” he adds and Nik nods.
“As ready as one can be not knowing what’ll come,” Niklaus replies.
“We’ll be rooting for you,” Rodolphus grins at the man before strolling along towards the Ravenclaw table.
“What did he mean by “we”?” Nik asks now out and Nela shrugs.
“Him, Rey and Jade, I guess,” she provokes, getting one of his puppy stares, “Or him and Ravenclaws…” she adds amused, provoking, “Your guess is as good as mine.”


“The Hogwarts Champion is asking around about you,” Rodolphus states and sits down next to Jude and Reynard, “He must be into you,” he adds, teasing. A quiet while passes and nobody replies.
“Who are you talking to?” Rey now asks, since Jude didn’t seem to react to that and neither did he.
“You,” Ruff nudges his head carefully placing a ladle of mashed potatoes onto his plate.
“Why was he talking about me?” he wonders and glances the girl next to him as if he was asking her about that. Well, he kind of did think they knew each other, since he remembers seeing them on a few occasions in the hallway. Ruff shrugs to the question.
“Dunno, maybe he’s gathering info on the competition,” Ruff grins at Jude, trying to calculate if she might have been still mad at him and how far he can go with the teasing. He stops himself before he goes too far, though, “Or he’s just smitten by our Reynard Potter,” he smirks and earns an eyeroll.

Naz
As soon as Rey glanced towards Niklaus, who supposedly was asking around about him, he remembered the scene where Naz punches the boy because the goblet chose him. He’s once again taken aback with how different she acts in his close proximity and the proximity of people like Niklaus. He stops and thinks about the people surrounding him and realises that all are purebloods. He ponders on whether he’s doing the same thing as her on an unconscious level. This thought unsettles him. He then gets up and strolls to the Gryffindor table to genuinely wish luck to Niklaus, even if only to ease his mind.

Mary
Just as he’s about to stand in line for the good luck wishes - which seemed to form quite suddenly, James and Holly cross his path and rather jollilly interrupt the train of bad thoughts he’s riding.
“You seem bothered, why?” James doesn’t really beat around the bush and Rey shrugs.
“I seem to be a magical blood snob without my own knowledge,” he spits the words out and sighs, “Rodolphus, Jude, you, Mary, Naz, - all the people I surround myself with are purebloods,” he points out and Holly furrows her brows to that.
“You’re always nice to me and I’m not pure,” she logically points out.
“You’re not my friend,” Rey replies to that harsher than he intended to and Holly seems genuinely surprised.
“O-kay?” Mean,” she points out with a frown and turns away from the boys in Mary’s direction, planning on talking smack about Reynard for the next thirty minutes. She glances again at him and you can see he’s regretting said. But she’s angry and he deserves to ponder on it. Mary will surely be on her side on this matter as well. She glances at her and notices Ricky right next to her. She smiles. Ricky, too, would be on her side here.

“That was unnecessary,” James points out to Rey and he sighs.
“But it was exactly my point,” he notices once again.
“I’m not sure why Naz seems to be among those listed, but yeah, you’re not in that league if that worries you,” James assures him with a pat and winks, “Join us later and apologise to Holly,” he tells him and glances at Mary, going towards her direction to greet her before, debating on whether to sit at their table or the Hufflepuff one, but Rodolphus decides for him, pointing to the seat across him, when Mary sitting right next to him, talking to Holly enthusiastically. For some reason James notices how easy a smile comes onto Ruff’s face whenever his sister is near. He doesn’t comment on it, though.

Leta
Instead he waves at Leta, who seems slightly nervous about today, but he nudges her to join them at the Ravenclaw table and scoops further away from the very loud and chatty group he as first seated with. She nods, showing she saw the invitation and turns to the rest of her Beauxbatons squad, which seems to be made out of beautiful Veela-like men. It’s not like he isn’t a handsome man, but there is some kind of grace in Acels movement and posture, which makes him straighten his own back in order to look taller, bigger, manlier. And with Mathieu, he doesn’t feel this threat/charm at once, he just seems so approachable and pretty. Sadly, James is not above the feeling of jealousy, so he tries to shove it down deeper, because he doesn’t seem to have display the same attraction these two men do. And it’s scary, because it’s not often he finds a man attractive. Maybe it’s something they feed them there… some Vela essence in each of their meals. His eyes linger on Leta a moment before she sits down and greets him with that charming accent only these Beauxbatons people seem to pull off.
Their greeting is dimmed by the very loud squeak of girls who seem to follow Acel. He seems irritated but fixes a smile and turns to them, letting each one enjoy a moment of his attention before they leave to give him some peace.

“I am sorry,” Acel apologises  and means it, stops his eyes on Leta mostly, since so far she’s gotten the worst part of those omnipresent screeching voices.
“We’re used to it completely,” Matheiu assures him and hands a glass of water to Leta, noticing the Hogwarts boy staring at him quite intensely yet dreamily.
“You could take a picture to make it last longer,” he smirks at the boy, good-willingly and James can’t help but let out a chuckle. He’s been caught.
“I’m just wondering what they feed you at your school,” he blurts out one part of his random thoughts but doesn’t add the creepy part with Veela essence.
“Pretty much the same,” Math shrugs and looks at Leta for confirmation, even if she seems distracted. This just comes to show that she needs more chitchat to stop worrying, “Right?” he follows up, but before Leta speaks Acel jumps in.
“Yes - only, it is served on plates and much more neatly,” he points out, doing something weird with his food by shaping and placing it in some sort of order on his plate, “Otherwise how would you know the proper portion size,” he sighs and it now makes sense since he seems to be watching out his nutrition.
“Oh, just eat,” Mathieu rolls his eyes and places a huge drumstick onto Acel’s plate. “You’ll sweat it out cheering for Leta,” he assures him and continues to eat, ignoring the look of absolute terror with the drumstick.
A shadow figure approaches from Acel’s behind, “Nice, drumstick, may I take it?” the figure asks and Acel nods in gratuity, almost falling in love at first sight when the figure leaves.

“Who was that?!” Acel mumbles to his chin as soon as Bryce seems to shamelessly squeeze between James and Leta, greeting everyone with a charming smile, much to James’s utter shock.
“Tuesday, one of two Ilvermony students that joined us today to see the tournament, he’s been put into Hufflepuff,” he explains and smiles at Leta, “How are you feeling champion?” he asks, “You’re looking stunning and ready today,” he adds in a compliment while the others just cringe at the way he seems to blatantly flirt in front of other people.

Persephone
But his mind wanders as soon as he sees another familiar face at the table down the hall. Bryce knows his mind tends to wander, so he has decided to just let it. He’s smirking at the girl about which he’s not sure what opinion to form, but it’s always smart to be on a girl’s good side. There’s a tap on his shoulder and Siddh is towering over him when Bryce remembers he’s taken his book by mistake in their Potions class. He digs into his bag and takes out the book, handing it over to the pretty boy.

Siddh leaves towards the Slytherin table and waves at Andrei who’s just entered the hall. The boys hug and it seems they know each other from before,
“So, I’m guessing you know that one already,” Siddh nudges towards Persephone and Andrei nods.
“Not well,” he admits, “but yes,” he adds, agreeing, strolling alongside Siddh.
“Then the same as me,” Siddh shrugs with a grin, informing the dark-haired boy about his own knowledge, “But, I’m good friends with her brother, Blaise,” he informs him as he introduces Blaise. The boys shake hands before sitting down to enjoy their lunch.

“So you have been attending Ilvermony with my sister,” Blaise mentions and Andrei smiles at the man politely before replying.
“Yes, we attended the same school,” he starts, “But as I already informed Siddh, I have only made brief aquaintances with her,” he explains and Blaise sighs.
“And here I was hoping you’d tell me something sis maybe forgot to,” he jokes, pretty sure his sister would tell him everything anyways.
“Well, if you want I can offer to find out things she’s not keen on telling you,” Siddh offers naughtily.
“Don’t touch her,” Blaise doesn’t even raise his voice just informs the other boy that there are lines you don’t cross. Siddh smirks.
“No worries, BlayBlay, I’d never,” Siddh makes a dramatic expression and smirks when he sees a figure approaching.

Naz
“Isn’t that our amazing puncher,” Siddh mocks her from a distance, waiting for her to join the table, “Who’d guess an amazing and pure wizard like yourself would stoop to such muggle ways of expressing anger,” he’s enjoying the moment and the feeling of superiority. Because right now he is superior. He’d never allow himself to behave in such a way. But he’d never say such cruel words directly. So he resorts to mean jokes. Because, in the end it was just a joke, wasn’t it?

Freya
Jordan hears the commotion from the Slytherin table and he shakes his head, incredulous that they are being this inappropriate in front of everyone, he sights Freya and beckons her and the rest of the Durmstrang crew to come and sit next to them and avoid the whole commotion. They approach and sit down.
“Ready to try and beat our champion, Zion?” Jordan directs his question to Zion even if his eyes linger for a moment longer on Freya, he then switches to look at him and the man confirms with a nod.
“Never been readier,” he informs Jordan while the Gryffindor boy is pouring a cup of pumpkin juice for Freya. Zion notices that and smirks, “I’m sure you’ll hold Freya’s hand while she’s scared for me,” he adds with a slight tease and Jordan raises a brow at that.
“I’ll be rooting for Nik, so I won’t be able to share the concern” he replies and shrugs, not giving Zion the satisfaction of teasing him, but looks at Freya, “I’m sorry,” he adds looking at her.
“He just loves me too much,” Nik now chips in, noticing it seemed as if they forgot he was sitting right next to them. Like right there - totally invisible. He’s shaking his head because of Jordan since it does seem he carries some kind of fondness for Freya. He also notices the girl next to Zion keeps turning her head towards the Slytherin table and he assumes she doesn’t feel comfortable here.
“You don’t have to sit here if you’re uncomfortable,” he tells Gemma and glances with his eyes over all of them, “Or if I make you uncomfortable,” he adds, assuming that might be it.
“You’re not making me or us uncomfortable,” Gemma informs him, “I just have a prior arrangement to sit at their table,” she sighs with an apologetic smile.
“She’s been keeping some kind of secret from us,” Zion points out and she seems uncomfortable. She looks at Freya apologetically.
“Sorry,” she repeats, “And sorry Niklaus, Jordan,” she repeats before leaving the table.

Last edited by Tonkolina (06/09/2020 at 19:46)

Freya Ohlson, 17, Durmstrang
FC: Olivia Holt

Interests: Gemma, Jordan, Niklaus & Zion

❋ Outfit

Supporter

❋ Story

“Niklaus, what happened to your face?” Freya asked the moment she sat down across him, Jordan, and Nela at the Gryffindor table… usually she would be sitting with Zion and Gemma but she didn’t particularly like most of the Slytherins.

“His sister happened,” Nela replied with a pointed look at Jordan. The anger and frustration about the whole situation were obvious and Freya didn’t blame her one bit.

“Seriously?” the blonde turned to Jordan… he had mentioned his sister a few times in his letters and from what she could remember they didn’t have the best of relationships.

“What?” Jordan held up his hands in defence, “Why is that suddenly my fault?”

“I never said that.” Freya replied, “But you have to agree that it is weird... I mean you are-“ she stopped and pointed at him, “And it sounds like that she is… well mean and cruel.”

“I am what?” Jordan asked sounding bemused.

“You are... you.” The blonde said lamely. She didn’t know how to answer his question without embarrassing herself even more. “So, Champion of Hogwarts... it does have quite the ring to it.” She turned her attention towards Niklaus. “I didn’t have the chance to congratulate yesterday… I mean I tried to but you were gone like within seconds.”

“It is alright.” Niklaus smiled at her, “Honestly, it still feels a bit unreal. When I put my names into the Goblet of Fire, I didn’t think that it would actually choose me. But here I am though it seems that nobody everybody agrees with the decision.”

Freya didn’t miss his pointed look at the direction of the Slytherin table. “Is there any particular reason?” she asked and tilted her head to the side, “I did try to read a bit into the history of Hogwarts but it wasn’t exactly my cup of tea.” She smiled apologising.

“For one, I’m Gryffindor and maybe a few of them would accept that but I’m also a muggle-born, so.” Niklaus left his sentence unfinished and shrugged.

The blonde pressed her lips together… hearing about other wizards having a problem with a muggle-born wasn’t something new to her. It was a problem she had encountered herself a few times ever since joining Durmstrang. Luckily, she had found good friends in Zion and Gemma who didn’t care about that at all.

“That is just stupid.” Freya said and crossed her arms, “I will never understand why some people like to think that they are better than others or why someone is apparently less worth just because his or her parents are muggles.” She huffed out.

“They are only jealous,” Jordan said.

“Exactly… jealous because Niklaus is the Hogwarts Champion and will be soon winner of the Triwizard Tournament,” Nela added sounding confident with her big smile before throwing an arm over his Niklaus’ shoulder.

“Are you sure about that?” Freya arched up one of her eyebrows and looked at her. While she was happy that Niklaus had been chosen – he seemed like the better choice compared to the few Slytherins she had met – but without hesitating, she would be cheering for Zion first.

“I am.” Nela nodded smile getting even bigger.

“Mhm, we will see about that.” Freya added and reached for a cup of pumpkin juice, “So because it will come up sooner or later.” She turned slightly to look at the Slytherin table, “Who is the lovely lady you call your sister?” her voice dripped with sarcasm as she looked back at Jordan.

He let out a sigh before leaning across the table to take her hand, “That would be her.” He lifted Freya’s hand to point at a girl with brown-blonde hair. “Naz.”

“Ehm, she doesn’t look very imitating or mean for that matter.” Freya knitted her eyebrows together… she had probably seen owls or other animals looking meaner and scarier. “I know she is your sister but I’m glad that you aren’t like her.”

“I- thank you, Freya.” Jordan blinked before he smiled at her.

“Anytime.” The blonde smiled back at him… she was glad that she had come to Hogwarts, not only because the Triwizard Tournament was a once in a lifetime opportunity – even without being the Champion – but also because it gave her the chance to meet Jordan. It might have been only a few weeks that they could spend with each other but so far Freya was loving every second of it.

❋❋❋❋❋❋

“Gemma, wait for me…” Freya called as she rushed down the hallway to catch up with her friend. It was another day in Hogwarts – there was still time until the first task – which meant going to classes again. It was still a bit of a weird feeling with the new teachers and students, different classrooms and teaching techniques but she guessed that it was part of the whole experience. But if anybody would have bothered to ask Freya she would have told that she could do without the classes... unfortunately, that wasn't possible.

"Freya." Gemma greeted her with a small smile, "Not with your Gryffindor friends today?"

The blonde blinked a few times in confusion, "Well, they have a different schedule than me and honestly, it looked like you knew in which direction you were heading. I stopped counting about how many times I already got lost... it isn't funny anymore." she let out a sigh before linking her arm with Gemma's, "If that is about breakfast, you know that you could always join the others and me."

"Is there any reason why you stopped sitting with Zion and me?"

"I just don't like Slytherin." Freya shrugged, "From what I heard they don't seem like the nicest bunch of people and I rather get away from them before I make the mistake of speaking my mind." There had been a few moments where she had been close to telling them to shut up... especially those who had been bad-mouthing about the muggle-born students. And now with the whole Niklaus and Naz' situation, her opinion hadn't changed much.

"Did something happen?" Gemma asked and knitted her eyebrows together, "You know that Zion or I would have helped you out."

"I know that and thanks for that." Freya smiled at her, "But nothing happened... if someone from Slytherin has spoken badly about me, I didn't notice it." Another shrug... she knew that this was Freya's way of showing that she cared about her and it still warmed her heart, "But if anything should happen, you and Zion will be the first ones to know, okay?"

"Good," Gemma replied... Freya couldn't tell if her friend was pleased with the answer or not despite knowing each other for years now. Gemma would probably still remain partly a mystery to her. "Okay, this is where we part ways," she explained and slipped her hand out of Freya's.

"What? No." the blonde pouted, "I did tell you that I keep getting lost and now you actually leave me stranded in the middle of the hallway." she crossed her arms and looked at Gemma.

"I am. You are a big girl and I'm sure that most of the Hogwarts students don't bite if you ask them to show you the way."

"Mhm, we will see about that." Freya huffed out still not happy about the situation but there was no delaying unless she wanted to be late for class... wouldn't be the first time since arriving in Hogwarts, "See you later, Gemma."

"Bye." Gemma smiled briefly before she entered the classroom. Freya looked after her for a moment and then took a deep breath heading further down the hallways hoping that she would find her classroom without any problems ( she didn't).

❋❋❋❋❋❋

Freya's lips were pressed together as she looked at the parchment in front of her trying to figure out what to write for her freaking essay for Potions. But her mind kept slipping and she couldn't stop thinking about the first task of the Triwizard Tournament which was only three days away. With a frustrated sigh, she dropped her quill and leaned back in her seat.

"Something wrong?" Zion's voice came from the other side of the room. Unlike her, he was actually doing on his housework.

"Not really." Freya shrugged before she grabbed her things and sat down across from him, "Aren't you excited for the first task?" she asked and tilted her head to the side.

"Should I be?" he asked in return sounding amused.

"Of course!" she pointed out and looked at him like he had grown a second head, "It is the Triwizard Tournament we are talking about and you act like-" she threw up her hands in frustration, "Like it is nothing at all."

He said nothing for a few moments before he started laughing, "Sometimes I don't understand you, Freya." he shook with his head, "Of course, I'm excited but it seems not in the way you want me to be."

"Oh." Freya blinked a few times, "It is just you look so calm about it the whole time... if I were in your place, I would be probably dealing with sleepless nights and almost freaking out because I have no clue what to expect." she licked over her lips, "Doesn't it bother you one bit that you don't know what will happen?"

"It is strange but surprises and mystery have always been part of the tournament." Zion explained, "I think if all the champions knew about the tasks before they happen, there wouldn't be this thrill and the fear of the unknown."

"I didn't even think about that," Freya admitted... maybe it was good that she hadn't been chosen as the champion in the end. Not only because the suspension would have killed her but also because it seemed that Zion had prepared himself pretty well about the tournament and everything that was connected to it.

And still, she worried about him and Niklaus. It was hard not to worry considering what happened during the last tournament... granted Voldemort had been defeated but the thought of anyone getting hurt or even worse was too much to bear.

"Freya, are you alright?" Zion asked and placed a hand on her shoulder, "You have this look on your face... almost as if something bad has happened."

"I don't have that look." Freya crossed her arms and glared at him... or tried to.

Zion said nothing in return, instead, he kept looking at her with his calm expression because he knew that sooner or later she would talk about what was going on with her mind. The blonde wanted to find it annoying and be frustrated with him... but she couldn't because he was her friend and she cared for him.

"I was just thinking about the last tournament and what happened back then and that-" Freya stopped mid-sentence and took a deep breath, "I don't want you or the other champions ended up getting hurt or you know worse."

"Freya." Zion breathed out, "I know that the history of the tournament sounds a little bit dramatic and extreme but I don't think you count what happened the last time." he smiled at her slightly.

"I know that but you know me and that I just worry for my friends." she swallowed, "This isn't something I can turn off just like that... and trust me I have tried a lot."

"There is nothing wrong with carrying about your friends, Freya." he flashed her a smile, "In fact, I think that you wouldn't be yourself if you just stopped from one day to the next."

"Okay but don't blame later when my caring quickly turns into overprotectiveness. I did warn you." Freya chuckled and poked out her tongue at him, "You know... actually, I'm quite happy that you were chosen as the Champion."

"Why's that?"

"Well, you are more rational about the whole deal. Maybe it would have been exciting for me too but knowing myself I would have spent most of the time either asking Gemma or you for help and guiding me through the whole tournament." Freya explained with a shrug. "Besides someone has to cheer for you."

"You asking for help wouldn't be nothing new for me." Zion pointed out and grinned at her. "But thanks for the support."

"Anytime." She flashed him a smile which quickly turned into a frown up looking back at her still empty parchment, "Okay, enough of delaying... if I don't start now I will never get it done." She opened her potions back hoping that it would make more sense to her upon reading it again.

❋❋❋❋❋❋

"You really can't tell me where we are going?" Freya asked for the second time since Jordan had shown up at the Durmstrang ship.

"And spoil the surprise? Not a chance." Jordan laughed. "Besides it isn't that far anymore."

"That's what you said like 5 minutes ago and I still only see grass, trees... oh, and more grass." she huffed. Unfortunately, waiting has never been her strongest suit. She knew that she should be happy about spending time with Jordan but her curiosity wasn't being much of a help in this situation.

"I promise that it is the last time." Jordan was still smiling before he quickened his pace.

"This isn't fair." the blonde called after him and watched as he ran up a small hill next to the Great Lake... to her surprise he stopped right on top of it, "What is this place?" she asked before settling down next to him.

"I discovered it during my first year in Hogwarts. Sometimes I come here with Nela and Niklaus or other times all by myself.. .you know when a moment to breath." he smiled at her. "And how can I not with this beautiful view?"

"It is." she nodded and looked at the castle right in front of them.

"So, was it worth the walk?"

"Definitely." the blonde flashed him a smile, "Thank you for bringing me here."

"Anytime. And how are you liking your time in Hogwarts so far?" Jordan asked and leaned back into the grass.

"Well, it isn't Durmstrang which will be hard to top in my opinion but I have been quite enjoying myself," Freya replied and leaned back as well... and how could she not? Being here still felt like a dream sometimes and she was glad that she was given the opportunity, not only because of the tournament but also because she had been finally able to meet Jordan.

Three years of exchanging letters weren't the same as being able to talk with him from face to face especially since it felt like there was a lot that she didn't know about him yet.

"Maybe you could see Durmstrang one day too." she offered and turned her head to look at him. "I'm sure that you would like it."

"Mhm, why not."

"That doesn't sound very convincing." Freya pointed out and playfully nudged his shoulder, "You know, my sisters would love this place... a shame that they couldn't come with us." she smiled sadly.

"How old are they now?" Jordan asked and tilted his head.

"Carina is 14 now and Rebekka has just started her first year in Durmstrang. Honestly, she was one of the few reasons why I did hesitate before coming here." she licked over her lips, "I can still remember my first year back in Durmstrang and how lost I had felt... I didn't want her to have the same problems. Carina promised to keep an eye on her but she is only 3 years old." she shrugged, "I hope they are doing well."

"You can always write them a letter," Jordan suggested.

"I already did that... three to be exact and while it sounds like they are doing fine. Let's just say that both of my sisters sometimes tend to forget about important details. I could tell you stories... you wouldn't believe me." Freya laughed and shook with her head.

"Like what for example?" he asked.

"Okay, it was the summer after Carina's first year in Durmstrang and we are on our way back home... both of us happy to see our family again but yet sad since we won't be seeing most of our friends during the summer." Freya smiled fondly at the memory, "Anyway, we get home and start unpacking and then Carina realised that she had forgotten her owl back in Durmstrang."

"You are messing with me." Jordan laughed, "How is that even possible?"

"I have no clue. I remember that I haven't seen her owl but I thought that she had let it out of her cage for the ride back home and that it would catch up with us sooner or later." Freya explained, "My parents wrote a letter and explained the issue and her owl was back home the next day... after that, I somehow ended up becoming her personal packing assistant."

"Sounds like the perfect job for you." Jordan teased with a bright grin.

"This is hard work." she poked out her tongue at him... Freya thought asking about Naz and what her problem was but it would mean running the mood. "I'm glad that I finally met you," she said after a few moments of silence had passed between them.

"Me too Freya."

❋❋❋❋❋❋

It was the day of the first task and despite not participating herself, Freya hadn’t been able to get rid of the nervous feeling... she tried to tell herself that it was normal to worry about her friends but that seemed like a new extreme. She had barely slept last night and she hoped that it wasn’t going to be obvious.

“Good Morning.” Zion was in a good mood as he greeted her upon entering the common room.

“Hey.” Freya smiled slightly, “How can you be this calm?” she asked without thinking.

“Because I am?” his reply sounded more like a question. “For example, I try not to make a big deal about the tournament.”

“But it is.” The blonde protested and crossed her arms. There still might be plenty of things that she didn’t know about the Wizarding World but over the past weeks, she had heard enough people talking about what an honour it is to take part in the tournament.

“Says who?” Zion asked and looked at her, “I will admit that it is an opportunity for me and I’m grateful that I was chosen but I think it would be wrong to start changing because of the tournament.” He stepped closer and clasped her shoulder with his hand, “What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know.” Freya admitted, “Everybody has been talking about the tournament nonstop and hearing stories about... you know. I guess it hasn’t been helping my nerves and everything.” She pressed her lips together, “I want this year in Hogwarts to be something we will always remember but for a good reason. Gemma and you will graduate soon and then it is just me.” She shrugged.

It was weird because while she had known that Gemma and Zion wouldn't be at her side forever and a few moments where she had thought about... this was the first time that she had kind of realised the full extent of what it would mean to them. They were friends, had been the ones to guide her through Durmstrang and helped her get used to the new situation. Gemma and Zion were among the people she trusted the most and the thought of losing them... she just didn't like it.

“Oh, Freya.” Zion sighed out, “Gemma and I aren’t going to disappear just like this once we are done with Durmstrang and you should know that.” He offered her a smile, “This year will be something we will always remember, okay?”

“Okay.” She nodded.

“Am I interrupting something?” Gemma asked from where she was standing near the stairs.

“Of course not.” Freya replied quickly and shook with her head, “I was feeling a bit down and Zion cheered me up.”

“A little? That is quite the underestimation.” Zion pointed out and chuckled.

“Why are you feeling down?” Gemma asked her voice hardly showing any emotions... but Freya knew that she cared.

“The upcoming first task and everything else that happened since arriving in Hogwarts... I guess it was a bit too much for me.” The blonde explained, “But there is absolutely nothing to worry about.” She flashed a smile at Gemma when her stomach grumbled loudly. “That is a sign for us to get breakfast.”

Zion and Gemma shook both with their heads but followed her out of the common room.


Breakfast was interesting, to say the least... not only because of the weird atmosphere that seemed to be going on between Zion and Jordan but also because Gemma slipped away after speaking about some prior arrangement she had made. It was strange and she wondered what secret Gemma might be keeping them from. Freya didn't know what to think about it and she sincerely hoped that her friend knew what she was doing.

It was on her way to the tournament arena that Freya spotted Gemma again and she quickened her pace to catch up with her.

"There you are." The blonde threw an arm over her shoulder.

"Where else should I be?" Gemma asked and knitted her eyebrows together.

"I don't know... maybe you made some arrangements again." Freya shrugged getting straight to the point, "Speaking about that... what kind of arrangement are we speaking about? I mean you aren't in some kind of trouble." she looked at her friend from the side.

The dark-haired girl sighed, "There is nothing to worry about. I have simply spoken with a few Slytherins over the past days and we agreed to meet again for breakfast."

Freya pressed her lips together not fully convinced yet but she knew Gemma well enough that pushing her to admit what was going on would never work out.

"So, the first task... what do you think will it be?" the blonde asked instead.

"No idea." Gemma replied, "But I want Zion to win."

"Well, that is obvious." Freya laughed.

As the arena appeared in front of them, she gasped at its size... it was huge and she couldn't wait to see what waiting inside for them... she was secretly hoping that there might be dragons involved.

But there were no dragons, instead what looked like a building in the middle of the arena and students of Hogwarts, Durmstrange and Beauxbatons were buzzing around to find a seat. It was in the midst of this slight chaos that Freya bumped into Jordan.

"Hey." she smiled at him, "Where is Nela?"

"We got separated which is no wonder given all the people," he explained.

"Why don't you sit with us? At least, until Nela manages to find you." Freya suggested but didn't wait for his answer since she simply grabbed his hand and pulled him down next to her. "So, what do you think will happen? I was kind of hoping for dragons or maybe another animal but this doesn't look very promising." she pointed at the arena in front of them.

"No clue but I do know that Niklaus will easily win this task." Jordan grinned at her.

"We will see about that." Freya poked out her tongue.

The crowd started cheering loudly as the contestants stepped into the arena and the blonde made sure to be loud as possible.

"Muggles have a very interesting concept of an escape room in which - you guessed it - have to escape the room. Inspired by that we'll start the first task. The contestants will enter three separate but identical rooms and will have to escape them within an half an hour. A limiting spell has been cast on their wands and they are allowed to use their wands for five spells, no more.

Champions. Please enter your rooms."

The task was explained by the tournament organiser.

"Well, that is certainly interesting," Gemma said and pressed her lips together.

"I have always wanted to do an escape room." Freya smiled brightly and clapped her hands together.

"What's up with this guy?" Jordan asked and pointed at the man who had suddenly appeared right next to them.

"This is for you." he said and handed a pair of binoculars to Jordan, "With this, you can enter the precise same room and try the task out yourselves."

"Oh, that is neat," Jordan exclaimed with a bright smile.

Upon entering the room, Freya immediately noticed the loud music followed all by the random items scattered around. "Do you see anything that will get us out of here?" she asked trying to locate something that at least resembled a hint.

"What about this?" Gemma asked and pointed at the empty parchment at the small table... they watched as words slowly appeared.

"This grandma sits still and ready
but during summer she's a useless old lady.
Then winter arrives, however, - or even fall,
and all of a sudden she's loved by all."

"Okay, does anyone have an idea what that might mean?" Jordan asked, "Because I don't see a lot of things but a grandma isn't among them."

"I have no clue." Freya let out a sigh... she wondered if the actual Champions were doing better than them.

"What about the fireplace?" Gemma suggested, "It would make sense. In the summer you wouldn't need a fire but once the weather gets colder."

"I think it is worth a try." Freya lifted her wand and aimed it at the fireplace, "Incendio!"

At first, it seemed like nothing happened but then slowly a fire started in the fireplace and the flames danced and swirled around the room.

"Are those words?" Jordan asked and pointed at what slowly appeared right in front of them.

"It always runs but never leaves its place."

"This would be a lot easier without this annoying music," Freya complained loudly... she could barely think straight anymore which wasn't helpful at all given the tasks. She hoped that Zion and Niklaus were handling it better than she was. "So, do you have any idea because I don't." Riddles had never been her strongest suit though the same could be said about logical thinking.

"A river?" Jordan suggested.

"And do you see one?" Gemma asked and arched up one of her eyebrows. "Because I don't and I also don't see how a river is the right answer... it has to be something inside of the room."

"What about the clock?" Freya pointed at the old watch, "Maybe not the clock per se but time would fit... it runs all the time but never leaves it place."

"Okay, but I can't think of any spell that would help us manipulate time... at least, not one that I have learned yet." Jordan pressed his lips together.

"Then let's try something else. Alohomora." Gemma cast the spell and they watched as the clock slowly opened up. The pendulum swung loudly, numbing the growing forte of the musical instruments. The noise was unbearable.

"Right now I'm not present here,
and if you say my name
I disappear."

"That is easy. Silencio!" Jordan almost screamed out the words and yet Freya barely heard him over the loud noise inside the room.

It only took a few seconds before all the instruments stopped playing and the sounds, noise and music turned into ink.

"Look," Gemma said and pointed back at the parchment.

"A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you."

"We did it." Freya first hugged Gemma before throwing her arms over Jordan pulling him close as well, "This was quite the experience... and I don't know about you but without your help, I would have been lost... I mean who even comes up with this ridiculous riddles."

"May I remind you that you originally wanted to be the Champion yourself," Gemma said and gave her a pointed look.

"I never claimed that I only have the best ideas." Freya shrugged, "But I have to say cheering makes more fun anyway. Especially since Zion is going to win." with a bright and confident smile she looked at Jordan.

"I think we will find out soon enough," Jordan replied and pointed down to the arena.

Time was slowly running up and it was only a matter of minutes before they would know if all of the Champions managed to finish the first task.

DONE




Camille Inés Beauchene, 34
FC: Michelle Trachtenberg

Interests: Sibellius & Fletcher (both FI)

☼ Outfit

Spectator

☼ Story

Camille's eyebrows were knitted together as she watched Leta following the other Champions out of the room. While she had little doubt that the blonde would be a good representation for Beauxbatons, she also found herself worrying... the last Triwizard Tournament was still in the back of her mind. She had been 11 years old during the Second Wizard War and she might not have seen what each other did, it wasn't that she could forget easily.

Camille tried to be rational that Voldemort was gone and that this Triwizard Tournament should go a lot smoother than the last time but she had learned that expectations still happened. With a sigh, she reached for the cup of juice right in front of her.

"Worrying again?" Sibellius asked.

"Am I that obvious?" Camille replied and smiled slightly.

"Only for those that you know," he told her. There were moments she still considered it weird that he was only 3 years older than her but already the headmaster of Beauxbatons... she knew enough people who had considered him too young and too inexperienced but Sibellius had quickly proven them wrong. "Leta is going to be fine... and so will all the other Champions."

"Do you really think I don't know that?" she asked and arched up one of her eyebrows, "I'm aware that they will be watched the whole time and we are going to interfere the minute something goes wrong but-"

"But what, Camille?" Sibellius asked and looked at her.

"Nothing... maybe I'm just overreacting or thinking too much." she let out a sigh, "Which wouldn't be the first time as we both know." She always had a tendency to overthink in certain situations and second-guess every decision and it seemed that it had only gotten worse after Geneviève had been born.

"Indeed, it wouldn't be." Sibellius chuckled briefly, "Look, there is nothing wrong with caring or being concerned, especially your students."

"And even if it was, you couldn't stop me anyway." the dark-haired woman pointed out and smiled brightly.

She and Sibellius might not agree with each other all the time but she knew that he cared about his students and the reputation of Beauxbatons. And that was what mattered the most for her... he was good for the school.

"So, how do you think that tournament will go like?" Camille asked after a few moments of silence.

"With a win for Beauxbatons of course," Sibellius replied sounding pretty confident. "I reckon that it won't be easy but I have faith in Leta and her talents."

"Mhm, we will see about that." the dark-haired woman hummed, "While I agree that winning the tournament would be absolutely amazing, I don't think that it is going to be this easy." she took a sip from her glass, "I admit that I have no idea about the Hogwarts and Durmstrang Champions but do you really think that they wouldn't be giving their best as well?"

"Of course, they will and that is what makes the whole tournament so exciting." Sibellius replied with a bright grin, "Just imagine it... one amazing Champion and two boring ones. Nobody would be interested in seeing this kind of tournament." he reached for his own cup, "Have faith, Camille. I tell you that Leta is going to win."

The dark-haired woman didn't reply instead she looked at him wondering where he got his high confidence from... Leta was a good student and a talented witch and as much as she wanted her to win, she couldn't bring herself to share Sibellius' enthusiasm.

••••••

"Good Morning, Fletcher." Camille's lips were curled into a smile as she sat down next to the Headmaster of Durmstrang.

She still didn't quite know what to think about it mainly due to the fact that they hadn't spoken much with each other yet.

"Good Morning," he replied. "How are you today?"

"Quite good and yourself?" she filled her cup with fresh tea.

"The same," Fletcher said with a small nod. "I don't think that I have asked yet... what position are you teaching at Beauxbatons?"

"Oh, I'm the Potions teacher for... let me count... almost ten years now. Time passes so quickly for me these days." she smiled fondly.

"Potions, that is quite interesting," Fletcher said and leaned on the table.

"Actually, it kind off ruins in my family." the dark-haired woman chuckled. "My paternal grandmother started the tradition and my father followed her footsteps and I have always found potions quite fascinating since I was a little girl... becoming a potions teacher myself just felt natural for me." she explained, "Though I will admit that having a father as a teacher, especially at the same school, wasn't always easy... and still I ended up doing the same with my daughter now."

"I can imagine that." Fletcher smiled, "You have a child?"

"Two actually - Geneviève and Damian - but only my daughter is going to Beauxbatons since Damien is still too young. But it seems like that she won't be following up with what seems to become a family tradition."

"Not a fan of potions?" he asked.

"Well, she isn't bad at it but her passion has always been Quidditch - she wrote me a letter saying that she is our newest seeker - and Charms since her first year. I don't see the appeal of pressuring either of my kids into a path they don't like." Camille explained, "And if none of them decides to follow my path... I won't be mad about it."

"That's a good way of handling it," Fletcher commented before drinking from his cup.

"Sounds like you are speaking from personal experience," Camille noted and glanced at him from the side.

"Experience yes but nothing that I would call personal. I'm not how much you know about Durmstrang but Dark Arts have always been a part of it." Fletcher started to explain, "As you can imagine it caused quite the backlash about 20 years ago... for a pretty good reason."

"Honestly, I had no idea." she blinked a few times, "I have met a few Durmstrang students back during an exchange year in Hogwarts but I don't recall any of them speaking much about their school. Do you still teach Dark Arts these days?"

"We don't." His lips were pressed together, "One of my first decisions, after I became the new Headmaster, was that I would no longer allow Dark Arts to be taught at my school. Not everybody agreed with my decision - some even till this day - but I haven't backed down after announcing my decision and I certainly won't back down now."

"Why should you? Camille asked, "Most of us have seen what Dark Arts can do if they are taught to the wrong person and I think we can agree that we don't need a repetition of certain events."

Two Wizard Wars had been two too much honestly and Camille wanted her children to grow up peacefully without having to worry about someone wanting to hunt them down and kill them.

"Agreed... this and many other things that just happened were the reasons for making changes at Durmstrang." Fletcher smiled at her, "And it worked... my school's reputation has gotten better and with the Triwizard tournament going on, it can only get better for us."

Camille chuckled and shook with her head, "I know someone who wouldn't agree with your idea of the tournament's winner."

"Well, where would be the fun if we all cheered for the same person?" Fletcher asked and laughed briefly, "I don't know about you but to me, it sounds rather boring."

"It does."

••••••

The arena was buzzing with excitement and Camille didn't feel much different as she watched the Champions arriving for their first task. It was certainly a different one and she liked the muggle approach to the final idea... she just hoped that everything would work the way the tournament officials had planned it to.

"I wonder how they must be feeling right now," Camille said to no one in particular.

"Probably very peachy," Sibellius replied his voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Seriously?" she arched up one of her eyebrows and looked at him.

"What? I wasn't the one who asked the obvious question." he pointed out, "I simply answered it."

"Did it maybe occur you that I wasn't talking to you?" Camille asked and smiled sweetly. "Not sure if you haven't noticed yet but the world doesn't revolve around you."

"Too bad... people have no idea what they are missing." Sibellius flashed her a charming smile.

Oh, Camille was happy that it no longer had the effect on her he was hoping for... she still knew how different it had been during the first time they had met and how she hadn't been prepared to meet a half Veela. The dark-haired woman had stopped counting how many weeks it had taken her to get used to his charms... a part of her wasn't too proud of it since she was happily married but Jules had proven to be quite understanding.

The dark-haired woman chose not to comment on his last sentence, "It is a shame though that we can't give it a try too."

She had noticed a few of the vendors upon entering the arena and judging by the fact that most of the students were still looking into the binoculars it seemed like they were enjoying themselves.

From her spot, she couldn't tell though how Leta was coming along with the tasks but she had faith in her student and she knew it was only a matter of minutes before she was going to be done with her task.

"She is handling herself quite well." Sibellius commented and leaned towards in his seat, "Not that I expected anything else from Leta."

"Of course, you didn't." the dark-haired woman shook her head, "What is she doing now?" she knitted her eyebrows together... it seemed that Leta had cast a spell at the clock but didn't seem to be too happy about it. Camille couldn't make out the words that Leta shouted but something happened. "I think she did it?" it came out more like a question as Camille turned and looked at Sibellius.

"She did but it seems that so did the other Champions," he replied pointing down in the arena... if that was indeed true, the question was who had been done the quickest?

DONE

Last edited by schoggettchen (09/09/2020 at 22:48)

♡ Cherry

♡ Name Mary- Grace Hadwin
♡ Face Claim Kelsey Calemine

♡ Nickname Cherry Blossom
♡ Age 17

♡ House/Home Ravenclaw, Hogwarts
♡ Interests Holly, James, Rey and Ruff

♡ Outfits

Library | Supporter

Credit to MB

♡ Story

I- Congrats to Gryffindor on to the win

"Sorry, don’t mind me a sweet candy floss coming through, sorry, excuse me,” Mary was waltzing through the line of people wanting to congratulate Niklaus for winning the draw.

Most people in line were going to be fake congratulations anyways so, Mary wasn’t planning on waiting in the long line. Her heels won’t permanent her to wait hours in a crowd if she had known so many fake people would gather she would have worn sneakers but alas.

“Excuse me, oh nice nails you got to lent me your nail polish,” Mary told an girl before sliding before her she saw Ricky walk her steps to avoid the crowd also, which made her roll her eyes, he simply smiled at her.

“I do love your heels, Mary,” Mary turned around to look at an amused Nela, which she smiled at the girl.

“Yeah, I love them too, but they weren’t made for a standing too long,” Mary replied with a wink, Nela laughed, “That’s why you are skipping?” Mary did a shh’d sign, “No one noticed,” she replied.

She turned to look at Niklaus and gave him a hug, “I will be rooting for you and every one that has half a brain will too, if you need anything come ask me, but I am sure Nela will be there to help you and I cannot really beat Jordan when it comes to intelligence, but a girl can hope and don’t forget to put ice on that bruise someone should give that girl a spanking, wait where is Jordan,” Nik was blinking and pointing somewhere while Nela laughed.

“Mary, did you even use dots in that sentence and don’t you worry about little Naz, she will get what she deserves,” The evil smile Nela produced after that sentence made Mary also smile evilly, “This is a girl to my heart, no mercy,”  Mary spoke to her and Nela laughed, “No mercy,” she replied.

“Why are girls so scary,” Ricky spoke up, Nik looked at Nela and then at me, “I have no idea but I don’t want to be on their bad side,” Nik replied and touch his cheek, Mary chuckled and winked at him before excusing herself she had done what she came to do.

Mary sat next to Ruff, “Why are you looking like that, Ruff?” Mary asked him she followed his gaze to see him watch Jude. Did something happen?

“What do you mean?” Ruff asked turning all his attention on her, Mary copied his face, or she tried, but he just laughed so Mary answered. “Like someone kicked a puppy or something,” He hummed about to speak up, but Rey beat him to it.

“Because he thought he was funny, but he isn’t,” Rey replied and Mary turned around to look at him surprised he talked to her once again, it surprised Mary because when he’s mad it takes some time for him to start talking to her again.

“Aha, yes, Ruff isn’t known for his comedy,” Mary replied and looked at Ruff that was protesting, “I can be funny,” Mary just laughed.

Out of her eye she sees Rey face changed into a sour one before he stands up and walks away. She looks at Jude's, who was also looking at Rey’s back. Her attention wasn’t long on the scene because Ruff spoke up, “I can be funny,”

“If so please entertain me,” Mary challenged him, but a voice spoke up behind them, “You two flirting so early already?” Mary turned around to see Ricky.

“Done chatting with our champion?” Ruff asks and Ricky sits next to Mary, “Yeah, he is nervous, don't want to disappoint anyone,” Mary saw him glare at the Slytherin table.

“She will get what she deserves, no worries,” Mary told him and Ricky just hummed and Mary wondered what the prankster was thinking.

“Is not only Naz, no one of that table congratulated him,” He replied and Mary also looked at the table she could guess why no one did, at least they weren’t fake about their opinion.

“Of course, not, he isn’t a pure blood,” Ruff told them and Mary huffed, “Idiots, somethings will never change it seems,” Ricky nodded and kept looking at the table.

“Is being a pureblood that great?” Ricky spoke up and Mary huffed, “Sure, sure absolutely,” sarcasm was clearly dropping from her voice, which got Ricky’s attention.

“She hates the expectation her parents put on their children and if they don’t live up to them they get dropped,” Mary sighs and searched for her two younger brothers they seem to enjoy themselves.

“But if I complain I will be a hypocrite,” Mary finally spoke up looking at Ricky.

“I am the golden child after all, even with my bubbly attitude,” Mary told him and looked behind him to see a piss off Holly storming towards them, she frowns.

“What?” Ricky asks, confused before Mary can answer Holly, sits next to him, turning to Mary.

“Who does Rey think he is? I just wanted to make him feel better. Don’t want to be friends with such a prick either,” Holly fumed every one blinked.

“Slow down start from the beginning,” Mary told her she wanted to know what Rey did to make her this mad.

“Apparently, Rey, finds himself surrounded by only pure-bloods and thinks it makes him a magical blood snob, so I tell him I am not a pure-blood, I am half right just to make him feel better, he tells me we aren’t friends,” Holly finished sadly and Mary gasps, “No, he did not,” she was fuming and ready to say some more, but Jude beat her to it.

“I think you're over reacting your only at this table for Mary any ways,” Jude spoke up and every one turned to look at her.

“You know Rey isn’t here sucking up to him won’t help,” Mary told Jude with a sickly sweet smile, Jude glared at her, but she did not care, ignoring the girl to turn to Holly.

“No worries, Holls, he isn’t only a blood snob but also a prick you have better friends than him, you don’t need him,” Mary smiled at the girl.

“He only has his brains any ways,” Ricky told her, “So don’t be sad my lady want me to kiss it better?” Ricky continued Holly, raised an eyebrow at Ricky.

“Sure make me feel happy again,” Holly was scarlet red a minute later when Ricky serious gave her a cheek kiss. Mary laughed at her.

“Hey Ruff, are you ever going to kiss me better,” Mary whispered to Ruff as a joke, but he was serious when he responded with, “Sure, but I think I have a better idea on where, to make you will feel much better,” Mary raised an eyebrow, “Is that so?” Ruff leaned in and whispered, “Yes, Cherry,” Mary rolled her eyes and looked away from him but felt her cheeks redden he had her there.

“Ricky! Did you just kissed me,” Holly looked shocked.

Which Ricky replied by a charming smile. “Of course I did my lady, want go on a date?” He replied.

“Uhmmm, huh,” Holly blinked “Wait a second when did you ask me to be your girlfriend,” Holly ask him still confused face, Mary laughed “He didn’t Holly,” Mary spoke up amused by the two her attention got taken when her brother sat across from her.

Mary blinked he smiled at her, “Hey, Mary,” Mary smiled back to him, “Hey, James,” She replied and looked at him like he was her star and moon.

A cough from Rey got every one attention, “I am sorry Holly, I didn’t mean to sound so harsh,” No one answered him though, and the silence continued until Holly broke it.

“Oh doesn't matter, we aren’t friends,” Holly said and turned back to Ricky.

Mary saw him glare at Rey before Holly turned his head towards her once again, “Where were we?”

“Discussion on your first date,” Mary spoke up before Ricky could answer.

Ricky turned to look at her and Mary gave him a wink.

“So will you my pretty lady?” Ricky asks her. “What is going on here?” Bryce sat down, “Why is it so quiet?"

“They are holding their breath waiting for my answer,” Holly replied, still looking at Ricky. Bryce sighed, “Didn’t I tell you Ricky that you are too handsome for only one girl?” Bryce replied which got Holly attention.

“Maybe you shouldn’t give him flirting advice, Bryce because I see in the future you being single for life,” Every one laughed at their bantering, Ricky only sighed.
“You know what I am in need of a party and what the best way to do so in celebration of the champions,” Mary spoke up and Holly looked at her, “I like the way think, Let’s go to Hogsmeade,”

Both grinned big.

II- Detention, I hate you more

Note. Instead of month detention they only had it for some days/short time. So not even close to being done but a girl can hope.

“I really hate this,” Holly was speaking up scrapping under three tables. Mary didn’t reply just hummed in agreement and sneezed for the millionth time.

This was their the worst punishment yet, and she wasn’t talking about the cleaning but getting up every day at seven was hard. She was grumpy and tired the whole day, and they still had to go to class. All dusty and sweaty. She wanted to strangle the person that snitched on them but alas. More sneezing more dusting. Mary did notice how big of a room it was like perfect for a party, maybe after they cleaned it up if they every finished, that is.

“You know what I hate you,” Holly snapped out after a big yawn. Mary turned and looked at her glaring, “I hate you more!” Before they could really start bickering, the door was opened and in walked Ricky.

“And I love you both, Holly, you a little more,” Ricky sing-sang, making both girls laugh.

“What are you doing here?” Mary asked him curious when their most hateful teacher at the moment walked in glaring at the two before turning his glare to Ricky, who didn’t seem the least but upset.

“Put a spell of chicken feathers in Slytherin’s common room, so every time they mention Nik, be it bad or good, some cushions explode,” Ricky spoke up and Mary could actually picture it and started laughing.

“You did what!” Holly seemed worried. “No worries Holly, no one in Slytherin would say that name,” Mary shook her head amused.

“That’s why he actually put a spell for the word mud blood the whole common room was full of feathers,” The teacher snapped out, Ricky shrugged, “Now they will properly lighten up,” Mary laughed once again and so did Holly this time.

“He will be helping you clean, I would have let him clean his mess, but he won’t be saved while Slytherin’s are there, watch your back,” the teacher said looking at Ricky and sighed, “Seriously, your prank went too far,” his glance went to the girls.

“Still not in uniform, I see, Mary, you’re going to class like that?” Mary let a big sigh escape, “I will take a shower at break and change my clothes for class,” she replied with a big smile still thinking of Ricky’s joke and knowing she will annoy the teacher like always.

He glared at all three once more before turning to leave.

“Here Ricky rick a bucket for you start dusting off,” Mary spoke to Ricky and went back to her own dusting.

“Why aren’t we using magic to clean up?” Ricky asked, confused, Holly growled at that annoyance on her face, “Because it is punishment Ricky and not allowed,” Holly replied and went on scrapping gum.

“I hate this and I hate you, Mary,” Mary hummed simply, “Yeah, yeah, I hate you more,” she replied and kept dusting, “But think of it this why as soon as it’s done we can hold a party here,” Mary spoke up turning to Holly with a grin. Holly returned the grin, “I serious like the way you think,”

Ricky huffs, “Didn’t you two learn your lesson?” two sets of eyes turn to look at him in confusion and Ricky sighs. 

Mary was planning to ask him if he would do the same prank once again, even knowing the punishment, but when she saw Holly and Ricky flirting she turned back around she had a lot to dust after all.

III- Library madness

Mary walked into the Library together with Ruff.

“Thank you for helping me study, Ruff,” Mary told him while sitting down. “It’s the only time you actually study and you need to pass this one,” Mary simply nodded and opened the book, she could have study alone, but Ruff present made her relax and her mind not jumble all over.

“So where do we start,” Mary asked him even though she knew it was a paragraph nine and Ruff gave her a look that said are you serious? Mary just grinned as a response, “Just show me and don’t be so grumpy.” Ruff shook his head, “Did you play on your phone once again in our class?” He asked her and Mary looked at him and innocently and replied, “No?” That made Ruff laugh, “That was a question, Cherry Blossom,” Mary felt her cheeks redden when he said her nickname like that.

Mary hummed but didn’t replay, “You own me, a banana ice-cream,” Ruff told her matter-of-factly.

“You don’t even like it,” Mary whispered because more people were present and Ruff grinned, “I want it,” Mary rolled her eyes once more but nodded, “Fine, I will get you one,” Ruff shook his head, “I want one from you,” Mary looked at him confused, “I know that is what I said I will get you one,” Ruff huffed, “Mary, I want to eat it together,” Mary looked at him blankly. “You bite, I bite,” It down on her then what he meant she made an oh face but got interrupted by her brother.

“It’s this how nerds flirt? Gross.” two sets of eyes turned to look at him accusingly.

“James?” Mary asks confused when she saw the same book in his hand that was before her. “What do you want?” Ruff asks, seemingly annoyed. Mary gave him a smile, “I will get the ice-cream,” Mary told him and her brother cough to get their attention once more.

“Help me study, Mary,” Mary turned to look at him and blinked did James just ask for her help with studying? She was taking a back. Ruff a gesture for him to sit down, “She would love too.”

He went to stand up but Mary pulled his sleeve. “The more the merrier,” she replied because she wasn’t planning to teach James not that she couldn’t, but she didn’t want awkward silence and Ruff had promised her they would study together.

Ruff gave her a smile and was properly going to refuse when James spoke up, “Come on Ruff, I don’t think Mary can teach me alone,” Mary would have taken offence, but Ruff sat back down and Mary let a sigh escape her hand kept on his sleeve though just in case.

“Your class also at paragraph nine?” Mary asked him and Ruff huffed, making Mary smile sweetly at him.

“I need you two to focus though,” that got Mary’s attention, and she turned to James and nodded, of course, “So where are you?” She asked him and before James could answer, they got interrupted once again.

“Mary, can you make Holly listen to me?” Mary looked up at Rey and looked away once more to her brother.

“Sorry, but are you even allowed to talk to people that aren’t pricks like you? Do you even want to talk to me I mean I am a full blood after all doesn’t your blood snobbery want to attach to people that are less of a full-blood?” Ruff cough, which made Mary stop her tirade because she could go a full hour.

“Rey, when Holly is ready she will talk to you,” Mary said with politeness when James gave her a glare that told her be respectful our I will tell our parents.

“Okay,” Rey replied and swallowed before turning away and the boys released a breath. But Mary was glaring at his back. Rey came a second later back though. “Can I study with you,” Mary was ready to say no, he could go kiss someone else butt for all she cared, but James already made pace for him to sit.

Ruff welcomed him and told him which paragraph they would start, James agreed.

Mary rolled her eyes, “What did I every see in him,” Mary mumbled softly but not soft enough because Ruff answered, “I have no idea, but I am happy he was an idiot to let you go,” Mary turned to look at him. “Aren’t you being to flirty today Ruff?” Mary asked him amused. “Are you getting used to it, Cherry?” he responded and Mary looked at him surprised, she didn’t know what she was supposed to think or feel.

“Hey focus,” James told them and open his book at paragraph Nine, “I really don’t understand and I want a perfect score,” He continued when he had the right page. Rey looked between Mary and Ruff raising an eyebrow which both ignored while turning their ow pages to the right page.

“So divination magic and how to counter goes as followed,” Ruff started and Mary slide her hand from his sleeve towards his hand, intertwining them she couldn't help, but noticing his smile get a twat bit bigger, which made her smile before she focussed on the paragraph when James had question she would answer or Ruff would. Rey was quieter than usually but no one seemed to care.

It was a successful study afternoon, James was happy and Mary was glad he asked for help.

And Rey, Mary would politely talk to him, but she didn’t consider him a friend anymore.

IV- Riddles, riddles, riddles, ringing eardrums

So this was fun and not only because today was the first task but also because Holly, Ricky and her didn’t have to clean today. So yes Mary was all smile whoever won today good for them, but she would be cheering for Nik.

“Can you explain to me why Nik’s badge is on your butt?” Ruff asked her, “And can you explain to me why your eyes were on my butt?” Marry dissed back and Ruff eyebrow was raised, “You really want an answer on that one?” Holly shhh’d them both, “Stop flirting, pay attention,” Marry was grinning while paying attention to the organiser.

“Oh my god that is Cassandra Mills Bogdanov,” Mary whispered, “Like in the mean woman?” Holly whispers back and Mary nods. Holly gasps.

“Muggles have a very interesting concept of an  escape room in which - you guessed it - have to escape the room. Inspired by that we'll start the first task. The contestants will enter three separate but identical rooms and will have to escape them within an half an hour . A limiting spell has been cast on their wands, and they are allowed to use their wands for five spells, no more,”

Mary though that it was indeed interesting first task. They could see the champions entering the rooms.

“I wish I could do it too,” Holly spoke up and Ricky stood up, “Where are you going?” Holly asked Ricky confused who just smiled and grinned, winking at her, “Making your dream come true,” he didn't take too long before he came back with four binoculars. “Here, with this we can do the task too,” Mary thanked him and so did the other two.

“Are we going to be in the room together?” Ruff asked and Mary raised her shoulders “Let’s hope we will,” a second later she was watching through the binocular.

“Oh this looks so real,” Holly voiced came next to her and Mary laughed. “Yes, it does,” Ricky was looking around a stupid look on his face, “So how do we escape this room?” That was a good question they all searched for a knob or something until they gave up they only had 30 minutes there should be another way like Ruff told them while he was enjoying his relaxing chair.

The music that was playing wasn’t bad but it was too loud for comfort in Mary mind, but it did not seem to annoy Ruff in the least while he sat and rocked in his chair obviously. If he kept going he would fall at sleep for sure.

“What is that?” Holly said and they saw words appear on a parchment,

This grandma sits still and ready
but during summer she's a useless old lady.
Then winter arrives, however, - or even fall,
and all of a sudden she's loved by all.

“Alright, it’s a coat,” Mary said simply and the others look at her.

“You aren’t seriously thinking that are you?” Ruff told her and Mary opened her mouth to say the spell, “Accio coat,” She replied and burst out laughing. Ruff shakes his head and Holly glares at her.

“Mary now we only have four spells,” Mary mounted sorry and her eyes crossed playfully.

“If it’s not coat is it blanket?” Ricky asks seriously and three sets of eyes looks at him annoyed. “Okay, I will be quiet over there, Ricky points at a corner.

“Incendio,” I speak up because the sound was getting annoying. Ruff looks at me and shakes his head, “You could have just done that before.” Mary raises her shoulders, “What the fun in that?”

Fire came from the fireplace and started to dance making words,

It always runs but never leaves its place.
What is that, I wonder?

What was happening to the instruments they were getting louder and louder, Mary was getting annoyed and stupid it seems.

“Let’s just go with river,” I spoke up, Holly huffs, however, “That makes no sense Mary do you see a River in this room?” Mary frowns she did have a point but still, “Who cares they mean river,” Holly shakes her head, “I think something with a clock or something look there are a lot her,” Mary also shakes her head this time, “How can that even be right,”

Ricky hummed making the girls look at him. “Uhm… clock seems strange but there isn’t a river here either?” Both girls looked at him and then turn back to each other ready to keep bickering but Ruff speaks up.

“Mary, river is way off, Holly is closer but the answer is time,” Ruff said with ease before saying the spell, "Alohomora," Mary rolled her eyes at him because of course he was right. She smiled at him and he smiled back at her.

The next riddle was already forming but Mary had enough about the noise it was making her go crazy, "Silencio," She says out loud and could breathe again when the instruments stopped making noise her eardrums could finally hear the others speak or gasp for that matter.

Her friends were looking at her in surprise, “What we still have one more spell for the last task,” she mumbled. Feeling guilty because she wasn’t sure how many riddles there were, “Never mind that look,” Ricky spoke up, and they saw words appear on the Parchment once again.

A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you.

The doors open and they all look at each other. That promised to be a spectacular 2nd round.

That was fun Holly says while taking the binocular away from her eyes, “Yes, it was.”

They seem one of the first doe because a lot more were still watching through their binocular. “You think Nik will win? Holly asks and Mary answers “Let’s hope he does,” She replies and turns to see Ricky whispering to Ruff who nods at ease which makes Ricky smile.

When Ruff sees her watching them he winks at her before turning back to watch the riddles being solved by the champions.

★ Ricky

★ Name Richard Johnson
★ Face Claim Erin Mommson

★ Nickname Ricky Rick
★ Age 17

★ House/Home Hufflepuff, Hogwarts
★ Interests Holly, Nela, Niklaus and Ruff

★ Outfits

Call | Supporter

★ Story

I- His friend is the man

"Sorry, don’t mind me a sweet candy floss coming through, sorry, excuse me,” Ricky was waiting in line like any respectful person only to see Mary waltzing through the waiting line to get in front, and he had to say she was doing it with grace not bumping anyone letting them move before she passed.

Ricky didn’t want to wait any more either, so he walked behind her receiving the most glares which he returned with one of his perfect smiles.

They were in front of the line in no time even though Mary stopped to compliment people it had to be a talent.

“I do love your heels, Mary,” Nela was the one to say that and Ricky looked down at the heels on Mary’s foot they looked tall, too tall, and they were certainly death traps.

Who would want to wear heels any ways?

“Yeah, I love them too, but they weren’t made for standing too long,” Mary replied with a wink, Nela laughed, “That’s why you are skipping the line?” Mary did a shh’d sign, “No one noticed,” she replied.

Ricky looks back and the line certainly noticed it knows but Mary didn’t seem to care about the glares she was receiving like always she was in her own bubble.

“Hey little Ricky,” Ricky smiled at Nela and went in to hug her. How a girl shorter than him could make him feel smaller he didn’t know, but he liked being in her hugs. “Hey Nela,”

“I will be rooting for you and every one that has half a brain will too, if you need anything come ask me, but I am sure Nela will be there to help you and I cannot really beat Jordan when it comes to intelligence but a girl can hope and don’t forget to but ice on that bruise someone should give that girl a spanking, wait where is Jordan,” Ricky and Nela turned to Nik to see the guy blink and confusingly point to Jordan. Nela laughed and Ricky shook his head Mary could talk a mile a minute poor Nik.

“Mary, did you even use dots in that sentence and don’t you worry about little Naz she will get what she deserves,” The evil smile Nela produced after that sentence made Mary also smile evilly, “This is a girl to my heart, no mercy,”  Mary spoke to her and Nela laughed, “No mercy,” she replied.

“Why are girls so scary?” I asked out loud swallowing. Nik looked between the girls. “I have no idea but I don’t want to be on their bad side,” Nik replied and touched his cheek, Mary chuckled and winked at Nik before excusing herself.

“So she really is a whirl wind,” Nela spoke up amused. Ricky nodded, “She means well,” He turned to Nik giving him a man hug, “I am so proud of you, man, you are going to do great,” He released him giving him a big grin.

“Thanks’ mate,” Nik smiled at him. “If you need anything ask I got the gadgets,” Ricky told him grinning.

“And what are you planning with Naz?” Ricky asked Nela whose gaze went to Slytherin table. “Don’t worry about it,” She replies but Ricky saw the anger flare up in her eyes, and she tried to protect Nik by hiding him. Ricky wondered how long she was planning to do that. He loved them both but Nik should start getting more confidence sooner than later.

“Will you come to our common room later?” Nela asked him and Ricky nodded, “You know I am,” Ricky replied smiling.

And after they chatted some more he made his way to the Ravenclaw table walking behind Mary who was chatting with Ruff, the male had a simple smile on his face it seems with each passing year he became closer to Mary, she seemed oblivious to it, like Ricky said the girl lived in a bubble.
“You two flirting so early already?” Mary turned to look at me.

“Done chatting with our champion?” Ruff asks and Ricky sits next to Mary, “Yeah he is nervous doesn’t want to disappoint anyone,” While saying that Ricky glares at the Slytherin table they weren’t making it easier either, they should be knocked of their high peddle.

“She will get what she deserves, no worries,” Mary told me and I just hummed it wasn’t only Naz sadly after a big threat you would think some people would change their opinion about how the world is purebloods aren’t everything right? Right?

“Is not only Naz, no one of that table congratulated him,” Ricky replied.

“Of course not he isn’t a pure blood,” Ruff spoke up and Mary huffed, “Idiots, something will never change it seems,” Ricky nodded at that and his gaze kept looking at that table.

“Is being a pureblood that great?” Ricky spoke up, he didn’t expect an answer parse but the huff and sarcasm laced in Mary’s answer got his attention. “Sure, sure absolutely,” It was quiet after that until Ruff spoke up. “She hates the expectation her parents put on them and if they don’t live up to them they get dropped.” Mary sighs but keeps quiet after that looking around and smiling softly.
Ricky wonders how easy it would feel to let someone know your burdens it also terrified him.

“But if I complain I will be a hypocrite,” Mary finally spoke up looking at me and I wondered what she meant. “I am the golden child after all even with my bubbly attitude,” Mary continued and stopped to frown at something behind him.

“What?” before Mary could answer however he feels a warm body sitting next to him, and he turns around an automatic smile coming on his face.

Holly seemed pissed though he pulled her closer to him.

“Who does Rey think he is? I just wanted to make him feel better. Don’t want to be friends with such a prick either,” Holly fumed and every one blinked including me.

“Slow down start from the beginning,” Mary told her and Rick also wanted to understand, so he was all ears.

“Apparently or Rey finds himself surrounded by only pure-bloods and thinks it makes him a magical blood snob, so I tell him I am not a pure-blood, I am half right… just to make him feel better, he tells me we aren’t friends,” Holly finished sadly and Mary gasps, I frown.

“No, he did not,” Mary says you could hear her anger.

Jude’s spoke up next, “I think you're over reacting your only at this table for Mary any ways,” Jude spoke up and every one turned to look at her even if it was true it didn’t mean she didn’t see more like her friends that was kind off mean at least we didn’t see colour.

Ricky pulled Holly even closer who was really looking upset.

“You know Rey isn’t here sucking up to him won’t help,” Ricky heard Mary tell Jude off and a smile was on his face someone who didn’t care.

“No worries, Holls, he isn’t only a blood snob but also a prick you have better friends then him you don’t need him,” Ricky also heard and looked at Mary to see her smile at Holly. Like nothing was wrong in the world Jude was glaring at her, however, her eyes turned to him, and he turned away from her. He won’t like people that hurt Holly even if they were half right.

“He only has his brains any ways,” I told Holly, “So don’t be sad my lady want me to kiss it better?” I continued Holly raised an eyebrow at me but I hoped she would say yes.

“Sure make me feel happy again,” she didn’t have to say that twice my lips were on her cheeks in 2 seconds. I could feel her cheeks warm up under my lips and I slowly retraced.

I heard Mary laugh and when I looked at Holly her cheeks were indeed scarlet, and she looked shocked. While she was quiet I observed how beautiful she was and cute, she was so cute.

“Ricky! Did you just kissed me,” Holly was still shocked when she turned to look at me I gave her my charming smile before responding.

“Of course I did my lady, want go on a date?” I asked her still grinning.
“Uhmmm, huh,” Holly blinked looking confused “Wait, a second when did you ask me to be your girlfriend,” Holly asks me she was adorable when she looked so confused.

“He didn’t Holly,” Mary spoke up and I could hear the amusement in her voice.

“Yet, I didn’t ask you yet but will you still go on a date with me?” Ricky asks her with a soft smile. Holly smiles also, “What would you like to do?” Ricky was thinking of a simple picnic but before he could answer someone cough and every one turned to look at Rey.

“I am sorry Holly, I didn’t mean to sound so harsh,” No one answered him though and the silence continued until Holly broke it.

“Oh doesn’t matter we aren’t friends,” Holly said I was still glaring at Rey though.

Holly took my attention by turning my face back to her, “Where were we?”

“Discussion on your first date,” Mary spoke up before I could answer. I turned to look at her and Mary gave him a wink. Hadn’t she been busy with Ruff or her brother why when she should be in her own bubble she knew what was going around her and when she was supposed to know what was going on she played deaf, blind, mute?

“So will you go on a date with me, my pretty lady?” Ricky asks her once again.

“What is going on here?” Bryce sat down, “Why is it so quiet?” Ricky was about to serious growl. Bryce had the worst timing period.

“They are holding their breath waiting for my answer,” Holly replied still looking at Ricky. Bryce sighed, “Didn’t I tell you Ricky that you are too handsome for only one girl?” Ricky turned to look at Bryce with are you seriously dude. 

“Maybe you shouldn’t give him flirting advice Bryce because I see in the future you being single for life,” that had me laughing including the rest of the table.

Until they continued their banter and made me sigh.

“You know what I am in need of a party and what the best way to do so in celebration of the champions,” Mary spoke up and Holly looked at her, “I like the way think, Let’s go to Hogsmeade,” Both grinned big.

My gaze went to Ruff who simply nodded there goes my relaxing night on my Gameboy but there was no way I would let this two go alone and Ruff seems to think the same thing.

II- Detention, love you both, Holly a little more

"What were you thinking?” the teacher had been fuming at me for the last 20 minutes.

“I am sorry I don’t know,” Ricky replied, but he did revenge was better served cold. It was a good prank and had eh know that more than 50 people would use the word he had done it years earlier.
It had been a sight to see he had been laughing his ass off why they had found him.

“How did you even get into their common room?” Ricky didn’t answer and just smiled.

“I don’t understand, sir,” Ricky replied therefor and the teacher just glared. “A week with two girls cleaning and you will be running towards me for help.

Ricky frowned if it’s the girls he hopes not a change, mate. He wanted to tell him but kept quiet.

“You know what I hate you,” He heard the sweet girls voice and did she yawn?  “I hate you more!”
He heard Mary snap back. The teacher next to him started to snicker, “Maybe only an hour will be enough,” Ignoring the teacher Ricky walked inside.

“And I love you both, Holly a little more,” Ricky sing-sang making both girls laugh.

“What are you doing here?” Mary asked him curious looking behind him though.

Ricky didn’t answer too mesmerised by Holly in that cute uniform of hers.

“Put a spell of chicken feathers in Slytherin’s common room, so every time they mention Nik, be it bad or good some cushions explode,” I spoke up when the question registered.

Mary was laughing so hard she snickered it was cute.

“You did what!” Holly screamed and seemed worried. “No worries Holly, no one in Slytherin would say that name,” Mary shook her head amused and that was the true the problem was.

“That’s why he actually put a spell for the word mud blood the whole common room was full of feathers,” The teacher snapped out and I shrugged.

“Now they will properly lighten up,” I reply and Mary laughed once again and so did Holly this time.

“He will be helping you clean, I would have let him clean his mess, but he won’t be safe while Slytherin’s are there, watch your back,” the teacher said looking at Ricky at the last part and then sighed, “Seriously, your prank went too far,” he looked at the girls stopping at Mary.

“Still not in uniform I see, Mary, you’re going to class like that?” Mary let a big sigh escape, and Ricky noted she was in a Blue Dino PJ pants and pink tank top and clearly she had no shame whatsoever.

“I will take a shower at break and change my clothes for class,” she replied with a big smile and Ricky wondered if she was testing the teacher she was doing a good job if she did.

He glared at all three once more before turning to leave.

“Here Ricky rick a bucket for you start dusting off,” Mary spoke to Ricky and went back to her own dusting.

“Why aren’t we using magic to clean up?” I asked confused, Holly growled at that annoyance on her face, “Because it is punishment Ricky and not allowed,” Holly replied and went on scrapping gum not pleased whatsoever.

“I hate this and I hate you, Mary,” Mary hummed simply, “Yeah, yeah, I hate you more,” she replied and kept dusting, “But think of it this why as soon as it’s done we can hold a party here,” Mary spoke up turning to Holly with a grin. Holly returned the grin, “I serious like the way you think,”

I huff at that, “Didn’t you two learn your lesson?” two sets of eyes turn to look at him in confusion and Ricky sighs, stupid question they had nothing to learn because they did nothing bad.

“Ricky?” Rick looked up at Holly. “Yeah?” he asked her. “I like your uniform,” Ricky grinned “You say that every time,” He replied before complimenting her uniform that apparently was new because it had a bow on the back made by Mary.

III- Call from home

"Are you sure mother?” Ricky was beyond scared when he heard his mother say she wanted to open a flower shop once again. “Yes, little Ricky you saw me last summer in the garden is my passion,” I swallowed harshly feeling tears swell up I knew how much my mother loved taking care of flowers, but she shouldn’t open another shop.

“Did you tell dad, also?” he asked her and heard his mother mumble something. “Mum,” Ricky asked pressing on and the sigh her mother let out told him enough. “Not yet,”

Ricky let a breath escape he was sure his father would be against it, “Okay be sure to tell him,”

“Ricky!” her mother seemed mad but Ricky wanted her save even from herself. “No mother talk to father,” His mother huffed, “I will open a shop but the finance I will someone else handle, so please be on my side Ricky,” Ricky bit his lip, “I don’t know mother,” He replied thinking about the years without his mother was harsh he and his father had been there for each other every summer but Ricky knew his father had worked extra hours just to stay out of the quiet home blaming himself that he did see his wife getting worst.

Ricky never blamed him they all had the abilities to hide their feelings from others when they were vulnerable.

“Ricky! Please,” Ricky sighed and shook his head, “I am sorry mother I got to go,” Ricky replied and hung up before nodding to the headmaster.

“I am sorry, son,” He said and Ricky simply nodded before leaving the room.

While walking, he came across the common room of Gryffindor and saw 3 people he liked schooling his features into a big grin he walked towards them.

“Hey, how are my favourite three musketeers,” Ricky greeted while sitting next to Jordan who stretch his arm to play with his curls only to stop when he noticed his hear in a bun.
Ricky gave him the biggest grin which Jordan replied with a huff.

“How is my other baby,” Nela greeted and Rick looked at her smiling, “I am fine, how are you Nik still nervous for the Triwizard competition?” That question made Jordan elbow him softly and Nela glare at him.

Nik nodded “Yes but Jordan and Nela are trying to keep my mind of, of it,” Nik awkwardly touched the back of his neck.

“So thank you, Ricky for ruin it,” Nela told him and Ricky raised his arms, “Sorry,” He replied. Nela ignored him and turned back to Nik.

Jordan picked up his book, “What are you reading?” Ricky asked looking at the book.

“A little more and your head will be in my lap,” Jordan replied instead answering the question.

“You would like that,” Ricky replied simply.

“The adventures of Tintin,” Jordan replied and went back to reading and Ricky turned away from him to let him read in peace a quiet fell down.

“Did you get a call from home?” Ricky nodded at Nik something he wished to forget.

“Must be nice,” Nela replied and Ricky’s smile dimmed, but he still tried while nodding, “Sure it was,” he replied swallowing hard afterwards. Nik gave him a sharp look but didn’t reply.

Nela looked at Nik once more, “No not like that you are going to lose again, Ricky come show him how to play this he is going to lose again,” Ricky stood up and walked to a duo to give them advice.

Jordan looked up for a split-second, “Read a book sometimes your brains get fried if you play games all day,” None of the three paid the old man any attention though Ricky already busying himself with explaining.
Hours passed when Ricky saw Holly pass and told the musketeers bye to follow just, so he could spend time with her.

“Holly, wait up,” Ricky rushed after his lady and Holly stopped and turned to him.

“Hey Ricky,” She shook her head after saying that, “Didn’t I tell you to come to me if you want a bun you always forget a lock of hair,” I couldn’t even answer because she was pushing it in place. Ricky was mesmerised by her eyes and a smile was on his face.

“You, who do you think you are,” two pairs of eyes turned to look at a Slytherin boy. Rick didn’t know his name, but he barely talked with any Slytherin except with Sidh (because the guy is cool) who he sees hanging around this dude.

“Sorry?” Rick asked him confused, “You think that joke was funny we had to clean your mess,” he walked dangerously close to Rick and Rick raised an eyebrow.

He felt Holly pull him away, “He was right though you all should lighten up, I can see the stick in your arse from across the hall,” Ricky had to try to keep his laughter in, Holly turned to him and whispered, “Let’s Run,”

IV- Riddles make me blank out

Ricky was more excited than Nik it seemed the guy had been green in the face. But Jordan and Nela, were trying to boost his ego. He had asked them for Nik badges they had given him more than enough.

Being free today from punishment felt great, he walked to the ladies and gave them both a badge of Nik.

“You look beautiful Holly,” the girl smiled at him “And you look handsome come here,” she straightens his bow and grinned, “I really adore this bows,” that made an even bigger grin appear on his face.

“Holly, but this on my bum I just got this top,” Mary interrupted their flirting and Ricky sighed only to smile once he saw Ruff coming there why. Mary was sticking her tongue at him tough. Which he replied with his own, Holly shook her head, “You two are so childish,”

Ricky hummed and whispered, “She started it,” Holly laughed, “Exactly what I mean,” If he could make her smile like that every day he was a happy man.

They both saw the organiser walk up, Mary was flirting with Ruff who didn’t mind entertain her.

Until Holly shhh’d them both, so she could hear what the woman had to say.

“Oh my god that is Cassandra Mills Bogdanov,” He heard Mary whispered not subtle enough, “Like in the mean woman?” Holly whispers back to her and Ricky wondered what they mean the woman looked beautiful to him sweat even wait wasn’t that Lana’s mother?

“Muggles have a very interesting concept of an  escape room in which – you guessed it – have to escape the room. Inspired by that we’ll start the first task. The contestants will enter three separate but identical rooms and will have to escape them within an half an hour . A limiting spell has been cast on their wands, and they are allowed to use their wands for five spells, no more,”

Ricky nods it was Lana’s mother this two where being mean but well-informed the woman was one mean lady.

The champions mate their way to enter the rooms.

“I wish I could do it too,” Holly spoke up and I stood up if I wasn’t mistaken we could, “Where are you going?” Holly asks me confused I just smiled and grinned, winking at her, “Making your dream come true,” I found a vendor in no time who told me how it worked and I simply nodded before walking back.
“Here, with this we can do the task too,” I told them, and they all thanked me Holly with the biggest smile on her face.

“Are we going to be in the room together?” Ruff asks and Mary raised her shoulders “Let’s hope we will,” she replies before we all put or binocular in front of our faces.

“Oh this looks so real,” I heard Holly voice next to me I could also hear Mary laughter and voice when she replied “Yes, it does,”

I was looking around lost in the room it had something homey.

“So how do we escape this room?” I heard myself ask. No one answered really but Holly, Mary and me started to search for a doorknob. Ruff said we should wait and that a doorknob would be too easy, so he was sitting in a chair enjoying himself.

How he could relax in the noise Ricky was surprised by it didn’t seem to bother him that much.

Holly found the clue first, “What is that?” Holly said, and they saw words appear on a parchment,

This grandma sits still and ready
but during summer she's a useless old lady.
Then winter arrives, however, - or even fall,
and all of a sudden she's loved by all.

“Alright, it’s a coat,” Mary said simply and I looked at her that was a fast guess.

“You aren’t seriously thinking that are you?” Ruff replied but Mary opened her mouth to say the spell, “Accio coat,” already. Ricky frowned that sounded lame maybe something else that has the same function. Mary was already laughing after saying those words.

Ruff shook his head at her while Holly glared at her.

“Mary now we only have four spells,” Mary mounted sorry and her eyes crossed playfully.

“If it’s not coat is it blanket?” I ask them seriously I didn’t expect three sets of eyes looking at me with annoyance. “Okay, I will be quiet over there,” I reply and went to stand in my corner.

“Incendio,” Mary speaks up and Ricky wondered what it meant until he saw fire start dancing.

“Oh that was the answer,” Ricky mumbled, “I didn’t know either,” Holly replied with a smile.

The fire danced out words to spell the next riddle,
It always runs but never leaves its place.
What is that, I wonder?

“Oh I think I know this one,” Holly spoke up a little louder because the instruments were getting louder.

“Let’s just go with river,” Mary speaks up but Holly huffs. “That makes no sense Mary do you see a river in this room?” Mary frowns somewhere Holly was right, “Who cares they mean river,” Mary replied once more but you could see she was going blank. Holly shook her head, “I think something with a clock or something look there are a lot around,” Mary shook her head this time. “How can that be right,” Mary answered.

I hummed making the girls look at me. “Uhm… clock seems strange but there isn’t a river here either?” Both girls turned back to each ignoring me to keep bickering but Ruff spoke up. I walked back to my corner it had less noise anyways.

“Mary, river is way off, Holly is closer but the answer is time,” Ruff says with ease before saying the spell, "Alohomora," Mary rolls her eyes at him at least she listens to someone. Ricky's mumbles but Holly hears him, “Exactly,” which makes him smile at her.
The next riddle was already forming

“Right now I'm not present here,
and if you say –“

Before it was done though Mary says "Silencio," out loud.

We all turn to her, I don’t if I wanted to strangle her or kiss her because the silence the instruments provided made me think normal things again even though I would never be good at riddles.
But we all still looked at her surprised, “What we still have one more spell for the last task,” she mumbles. And she did look guilty my eyes fell on the parchment and I smile only… Mary.
“Never mind that look,” I speak up, and we saw words appear on the Parchment once again.

A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you.

The doors open, and they all look at each other. I couldn’t wait for the next round hoping Nik will win both this and that one.

I slipped from my seat next to Ruff, who gave me a glance. “What is it?” He asked.

“Can you do something for me?” I whispered as low as I could. “Depends on what you want.” Ruff replied.

“Can you take Mary out on a date or something?” Ruff gave him a curious look. “I just really want to take Holly out but people keep distracting her,” Ruff looked amused but nods. “Only because I Was already planning,” Ricky smiled at that before his gaze turned to Holly.

Who seems intrigued by the champions trying to escape the room. Mary however was looking at them with a questioning gaze that Ruff respond with a wink that only made Mary response with a suspicious glare, but she got distracted by Holly who hit her arm because a one of the champions seems at the last riddle.

Last edited by NinaJones (09/09/2020 at 15:29)

R1 - DONE | R2 - DONEISH

ABOUT - DONE

NAME
PERSEPHONE LESTRANGE

FACE CLAIM
Zhenya Katava

AGE 17

HOUSE/HOME
Slytherin, Hogwarts

NICKNAME:
Seff (mostly only Blaise has called her this in the past)

TRAITS: virtues and flaws (at least three from both)
Charismatic, Cunning, Ruthless, Daring, Arrogant, Devious
... now to go find some flaws...

DREAM:
Becoming an Unspeakable in the Department of Mysteries

FEAR:
Disfigurement/mutilation, rodents

FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Transfiguration & Potions

LEAST FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Divination

FAMILY & OTHER RELATIONS:
Persephone is a pure-blood witch from a very powerful and prominent family with ancient bloodlines and connections. She is the younger sister of Blaise by only 10 months to the day. Often mistaken for twins due to their closeness in age, they were nearly inseparable as children. The two are very similar in both demeanor and personality, sharing secrets, planning manipulations, and covering up each other’s misconduct, if need be. Just like most Slytherin, they are extremely loyal to each other while having an obvious disdain for those that they feel are unworthy of their time and attention. Persephone is not at all discreet about her haughty attitude towards anything muggle-related. She is also very self-absorbed, but her narcissism is well managed when in the company of like-minded wizards and witches and she is genuinely liked, and protective over those in her friend circle.

She is a metamorphic witch, and as such has always had the ability to self-transfigure without additional training or potions. It caused a bit of an uproar in her family when she accepted the stone inscribed invite from Uagadou Wizarding School in favor over the Owl-missive that arrived on her 11th birthday for Hogwarts. Even at that young age, she was aware that Uagadou was prized for its curriculum in both human transfiguration and alchemy while she would have to wait, and hope, that she might be able to take those subjects in her 6th or 7th year if there was enough interest.

The one major difference between Blaise and Persephone is that she is not at all lazy. She is quite ambitious and athletic. Despite knowing and using her family advantages, she is also focused and determined to achieve her goal of one day getting a position in the Department of Mysteries as an Unspeakable. The highly elusive and exclusive position intrigues Persephone due to its secretive nature and independence of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and the Minister of Magic.

Thanks in large part to her wealthy and influential family, she rarely finds herself in any position where real consequences are of threat and is often willing to exploit her connections for her own advantage. Her privileged position made her ruthless and quite reckless. Which is exactly why she is here, at Hogwarts, finishing out her final year of Wizarding schooling… Even the wealth and power of a Lestrange is not enough to get one out of the hottest of hot water…

INTERESTS
Blaise | Sidh | Bryce | Andrei

PLAYLIST

Slytherin-type Stuff ~ continuing

A LITTLE WICKED
HEATHENS
SOUR CANDY
COLD BLOODED
ALPHA
HARD
THANK GOD I'M NOT YOU
I LIKE IT HEAVY
YOU'RE SO VAIN
LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO
YOU CAN'T SIT WITH US
GONNA SHOW YOU CRAZY
YOU SHOULD SEE ME IN A CROWN
THE GREATEST

THE LOOKS

Escape The Room | Serpensortia!

Meeting Naz

STORY - DONE

If Impressions Mattered... (Naz)~ DONE

“Who the bloody hell are you?”

Was not exactly how I expected to be greeted my first morning in the Slytherin dorm room but there it was. The vision of her suspicious face reflected back to me from the mirror I sat before, a brush shifting through locks of long dark hair. It was likely one of the very first things I did when I arrived at Hogwarts, hanging that mirror on the panel beside my bed. I continued to stroke, once, twice… three times before finally setting it aside and spinning to face the female. By that time her arms were crossed over her chest in a no-nonsense kind of way. I smirked.

“Well I bloody well am Persephone Lestrange, in the flesh!” I stood then, stretching out my hand in offering “You’re welcome to meet me…” I beamed while the face of the passionate girl from last night twisted into a confused and even more skeptical glare…

“Lestrange?” she scoffed then frowned and arched a brow.

“Ummhmm... Persephone…” I repeated. She had not reached out to accept my handshake but that did little to deter me. Without any hesitation I reached for her hand and shook them together myself… “and you’re Naz… some last name or another…” I muttered waving my hand in the air like it was completely irrelevant. “I’ve heard a great deal about you last night…”

“Huh… wait, what?” She jerked her hand free and continued frowning not that it phased me, I just grinned as I moved, slipping over to my bed and sitting, one leg bending to sit under me while I clutched at a pillow after patting the space beside me for her to sit.

"What exactly have you heard?" She demands suspiciously.

“Ummhmm they were telling me all about how a muggle won that thingy y’all do here and how bad it sucked and I totally agree… like I have no idea what its all about and all but I can just imagine how horrid a feeling that must be… one of them coming out ahead. It’s unthinkable…”

Naz’ face seemed to relax a little at my comment, but she still did not move to take a seat. She shook her head, “Wait… Lestrange? You’re related to Blaise?”

“Well… duh… you would be like the first person in the history of ever to not see we look so much alike…”

“I don’t understand… you can’t be his sister Persephone… she’s much younger…”

“Well not MUCH… but yes I’m younger he so annoyingly likes to remind me…”

“How old are you?”

“17…” I answer patiently… for the moment trying to hold back my exacerbation. Most people went through this stage over my kinship with Blaise when it is first revealed. “… and no, we aren’t twins…” I explained further adding about our month’s apart births. Finally, Naz, still baffled, slid onto the bed beside me.

“I don’t get it… but you haven’t been in school…” she countered then she looked at me with a horrified expressions… “you… you weren’t a squib until now were you?”

“Merlin’s beard Nooo!” I gasped stunned and as horrified by that possibility as she looked. “I can’t even imagine!” I shudder, Naz smirks followed by me giggling.

We spent a good deal of that morning getting to know each other better, telling her about my relationship with my brother, time at Ilvermorny and even hinting a tiny bit about my natural ability while I learned that she was indeed an actual twin and that her brother, not in her words of course… was a filthy blood traitor. He was a Gryffindor, not that I had a lot of investment into the territorial Hogwarts houses… but I was Slytherin now, wasn’t that to be expected? He was also perfectly content to mingle with those people. I mean… it wasn’t like I didn’t spend a hefty amount of time around that sort over at Ilvermony… the halls were literally crawling with them. Anyone that was anyone in a pure-blood family knew that associating… accepting… ‘them’ was not acceptable behavior, not if you were from a ‘good’ family. But, still… I shook my head rethinking it a couple hours later. Thankfully Naz had never asked why I was suddenly attending Hogwarts and I certainly never brought it up. Those reasons were better left hidden inside that particular closet…

Cool Kids Table... (combination)~ DONE

“Never do what?” I blurt out pushing my way into the group from the left while at the exact same time Sidh calls out to Naz who was approaching from the opposite direction. “If its fun… I’m in!” I add, undeterred by the awkward silence that followed my question, or intrusion… or both.

Three sets of eyes turned my way, one frowning, one quickly turning away and the third… well… when I finally gazed at him my stomach did the biggest summersault. Gulping gargoyles, Andrei Gusarov? What the bloody hell was he doing here?
Slyly I shifted my gaze, assessing the room at large before uttering a weird, uncharacteristically meek ‘hey’ towards the man in question. He was tall, handsome, with that deeply chiseled jaw and dark countenance… rather exotic looking. But most girls had said as much at Ilvermony. Seeing the three of them standing there, yes even my brother… was an impressive sight. But that had absolutely nothing to do with the sudden queasiness I was feeling.

“Hey what’s up…” Andrei responded coolly, voice pleasant, relaxed…

Suddenly Blaise spoke, his brows pinched together “Nothing… no one’s doing anything…” Sidh seemed to clear his throat, still not looking at me but instead directing his attention, and then everyone else’s towards Naz with a rehashing of the events from the previous evening.

Naz was grumbling and clearly in a far from docile mood. And that suited me just fine. Everyone focused on her and her antics leaving me the opportunity to skim the room once more. I was so preoccupied with my own thoughts that I gasped when my food tray was tugged from my grip and almost went flying all over Blaise. He frowned again as he looked me over then moved a space on the bench for me to slide in beside him. Luckily, Andrei, who sat on the other side of me, was completely focused on speaking to Naz and so did not notice the curious glances I sent his way.

If he was here, did that mean that his mother was there too? And did it even matter? It wasn’t like I was headed back to Ilvermony… like ever. So, what difference would it make at this point? And it wasn’t even as if I felt any remorse or regret over what happened.

‘Maybe not, but you aren’t willing to broadcast the truth… now are you?” I shook away the internal accusation while stabbing my fork into my lunch as if I were trying to kill the chicken for the second time around. When I peeped over again, he was continuing to pay absolutely zero attention to me, and why would he give me even a moment’s thought? He was a whole year ahead of me, it was likely he had absolutely no idea who I was.

‘Who wouldn’t know you…?’ the errant thought brought a smirk to my face. Well… maybe he might know of me, but we weren’t friends, I could probably count on one hand the number of times we actually spoke to each other across the pond. And I was fairly certain that I could count on one hand the number of people that thought they knew what happened that night. It wasn’t like I was going to begin to sit around crying over spilt potion…

The memory of that night played out in my head… overshadowing the innermost voice that was trying to keep me rational about things. My smirk spreading wider as I continued to push my food around aimlessly on the plate, not taking a bite, droning out the overlapping conversations happening around me. The truth of the matter was… there were only two people in the world, magical, mythical, muggle… all the worlds… that knew for sure how that night had played out. And even though I had no qualms over the situation, that didn’t mean the rest of the wizardry world would just shrug it off. Money, power, reverence… none of that would protect me if the truth were out.

“What?” Blaise’s voice broke into my thoughts

“Huh?” why was he staring at me…I frowned and glanced around the table but no… everyone else was still chatting or listening in on the convo Naz seemed to be having with Andrei… or rather what he was saying to her. The girl did not at all seem to be focused on him at all.

“What happened?” I said gazing back to Blaise in confusion.

“You look like you’re daydre…”

“… filthy mudblood. And now the mutt thinks he’s the king of the school!”

Blaise broke off mid-sentence both of our gazes shifting to Naz who was saying the quiet part firmly and bluntly out loud. Blaise smirked then grinned broadly, chiming in, encouraging her. Oddly enough there did not seem to be any school administrators around, Andrei’s face was expressionless and Sidh… well he looked highly uncomfortable.

From my vantage point, I followed the direction Naz stared, to the Gryffindor table, and assumed the boy in the center of that crowd to be her target. It was my very first glimpse of the so-called champion of Hogwarts. If the truth were told, he didn’t look like much to me, especially when he flinched and squirmed as if someone had reached out and slapped him. One girl beside him seemed to rise up and kind of shift her body, almost as if she were stepping in to block him…  she looked like she would willfully strangle Naz. My house-mate’s rant continued though, egged on by a smirking Blaise.

A definite chuckle slipped from my lips when she mentioned putting muggles with house elves… the image fully forming in my head almost instantly but then abruptly Naz rose and started for the door. It took little intuition on my part to realize that she was trying to avoid the Gryffindor student that seemed to stalk after her… stomped… rushed… he was definitely agitated and in a hurry. They were too far away for me to hear the conversation when he finally caught up with him but the sadness and disappointment in his eyes when he turned back into the dining hall was also quite amusing. I supposed that must be the brother… twin brother… the blood traitor.

Then she was gone, and the brother was sulking back to his table… or maybe a little mad. For the most part the entire dining hall got more somber after that, only the sound of utensils tapping dishes and low hushed whispers filtering through. Unruffled I lifted up slightly and stretched across to grab the pitcher and poured myself a mug of juice before I suddenly began humming quite cheerfully. Moments later I finally started eating my food. It only took me a couple more seconds to realize that several faces had turned to look at me oddly causing me to arch a brow.

“What?” I asked with a fork laden with a huge chuck of chicken inches from my mouth… if anything, Andrei out of the three of the guys closest to me seemed the least affected by what had just happened. Blaise looked smug, there was absolutely no doubt over the enjoyment he was feeling over the whole episode, while Sidh looked… well… still uncomfortable. I was not sure what to make of that.

“You act as if you didn’t just see what happened…” Sidh remarked curiously, I’m not really sure what or rather how he expected me to respond… faint… be outraged… be amused?... I shrugged.

“What happened? Did her big bad words hurt their little feelings?” Blaise snickered, as did a couple other people at the table. Sidh, not so much. I couldn’t rightly say what he was thinking, but I knew that I wasn’t going to sit there fretting over that incident.

I will never understand how anyone could feel so dejected and emotional over words. 

Cute, but psycho (Andrei)~ DONE

“I’m surprised to see you here…”

I turned my head at the deep voice that hissed near my ear before the body slipped into the chair next to me, my fingers still clutched at the book I had been skimming while waiting for class to start.  My brows furrowed and I glanced around for a moment before turning back.

“Me… what are you doing here?” Andrei was the last person I would expect to see in this… hell… or in any of my classes to be honest. He was tugging a textbook out of his bag as he peeped over at me smirking.

“Well… preparing for class obviously”

“okay… but… I mean…” I shook my head still confused. It was the day after the lunch incident and I hadn’t really seen or spoken to Andrei since then. Well, to be honest, I hadn’t really spoken to him then either. “You know this is transfiguration… right?”

He chuckled, “…I sure hope so, hate to think I might be wasting my time in the wrong room…”

“I didn’t realize you were going for a N.E.W.T. in this…”  Actually, I had no idea what classes he was enrolled in… but he certainly had not been in any of my classes in America.

He smirked again

“Ditto…” And sure, why would he know? “…but this is your thing, right? Guess I should have known you would be here…”

“My thiinng?” I smirk as I sat back a little, “one of the many things I’m freakin’ awesome at thank you very much…”

“Oh… nice of you not to have a big head or anything…”

“Well if people are going to talk about me, I might as well add my two cents…”

His lips twitched and eyes lit up, “Paranoid much? Who said anyone was talking about you?”

I shrug, still grinning at him, unconsciously tugging at tresses of my hair and twirling it slowly between my  fingers. “Well… I certainly have had very little conversation with you in the past but yet somehow you seem to think this class is ‘my thing’… either someone’s been talking about me or you took some effort to form an opinion about me all on your own…”

He chuckled now, “or it could be that I have seen you win the transfiguration tournament at Ilvermony a time or two... or maybe it could just be your notorious reputation…”

“ooh… notorious, I like that. Maybe I should work on adding nefarious too it?”

“Oh… you want people to think you’re horrid?”

“Outrageous… shameless… sinful…” I lean forward and offer instead in a low conspiring tone, earning another smirk “they say it’s inevitable, wickedness… madness… it is just genetic for us Lestrange’…”

“I’m not sure brandishing yourself a psychopath is the best advertising in the world…”

“oh please… it’s the wild, crazy moments in life that are most memorable… or so I have heard… at least you know you will never be bored around a crazy person… everyone should have one in their life…”

“A crazy person?” Making an affirmative sound as I nod only makes him chuckle again. “Only a crazy person would say that…”

I giggle then wink suggestively, “you have been warned…”

“ummhmm… should I pick a different seat to avoid all the insanity in this little corner of the room?”

“yeah right… you are totally getting sucked into my world… you could of course try to back track… try to correct course, but I’m afraid the sickness will soon seep deep down inside where you wont be able to purge it out too easily…"

"Now referring to yourself like the plague... you are warped..."

I smirked mischievously. "Some people come to love that about me, others... not so much."

"Jury's still out on what I think..."

"Is it though?" I grin seeing clearly that there is a smirk on his face.

Regardless, chitchat came to an end when the Professor entered the room. As much as I was enjoying the little back and forth with him, and maybe a little shocking to those that didn't know me too well... when it came to my lessons, I was all business.

Move The Damn Cheese! (Bryce)~ DONEish

“These Hogwart’s students sure do get hysterical about this whole thing” I mumbled glaring at one big goofy looking fellow after he nearly trampled me in his effort to get to the front of the gathering crowd.

“You’re one of us now… you don’t feel it in the air…” a chuckling voice and then a nudge from my left had me turning to look up at Sidh grinning at me. It had been a few days since the dining hall incident and shockingly the first time since then that we were all gathered together in one place. The announcement for the tournament had just been broadcast drawing a huge crowd of people while our little Slytherin horde stood by or sat perched on a low hanging wall a short distance from where the champions were standing… apparently getting their instructions.

I just shook my head at the exuberance of my fellow classmates. All this for a muggle-themed tournament. I almost laughed. Seems like Hogwarts was the new muggle epicenter in the witchy world. I don’t even remember Ilvermony having muggle-themed events and that place was partly founded by one.

“Feel what exactly?”

“The excitement…”

I scoffed and wrinkled my nose, “In this contaminated air?”

“Exactly sis…” Blaise chimed in, draping his arm over my shoulder… his expression not much different than my own. “This is bloody lame…”

“Oh come on, it is exciting…” Sidh countered with a grin.

“If you say so…” I responded skeptically. “I bet I could find other things to get excited about than some silly locked room.” I seemed to think about it for a moment… “Well… depends on who I’m locked in the room with I suppose”

Sidh smirked as he looked at me again, his eyes lighting up with interest… for a second before he immediately turned away.

“I am not taking part in that.” Naz cantankerously pointed out earning a smirk from me.

“I think it sounds like fun” Sidh insisted, his eyes shifting back to the crowd ahead.

“Sidh, didn’t you hear. This is a muggle game”

You would have to be deaf, dumb and blind to not pick up on Naz’ disgust. Sidh insisted on defending the idea… his interest in it, and his attempt to convince the lot of us that we should be more open to the idea of it. I suppose I shouldn’t have been surprised when she did a 360 and suddenly agreed to join… but considering that Sidh had totally manipulated her with the tempting offer of showing up the champion… well… all I could do is stare slack-jawed as Sidh gripped her hand and dragged her into that wad of people.

“Well… that was abrupt…” I mutter still not making a move to go closer.

“You might as well go… lame as it is, it’ll be your first experience at the triwiz…” Blaise mumbled as he nodded his head. I arched a brow. “It usually isn’t so… well… muggle. Maybe the next rounds will be better…”

I laughed at the way his disgust matched Naz’ so effortlessly. “And what will you be doing if I did...?”

“No damn clue… I’ll join maybe… will see… seriously though, you should go, catch up to Sidh and Naz so you can go with them…”

I chuckled but shrugged, almost dismissively but I did eventually go forward, walking up just in time to get a loud vendor shouting in my face as he shoved a pair of goggles into my hand.

“oh hell no…” I spit out when the meaning of ‘randomly choosen’ groups hit me. I started to set my binoculars aside and was totally planning on making an exit when suddenly a hand clutched mine and lifted to show that the lights on our set matched.

“Well looks like I get to have some time with you despite the last missed opportunity…”

Bryce. I smirked as I tilted my head, glancing up at him and seeing that mesmerizing grin once more. Hard to believe it had almost been a week already.

“Ooh… have you been counting the days until you got to see me again?”

“Days… hours… minutes…” the obviously dramatic answer was such a lie I could not stop the genuinely amused laughter that spilled out.

“Smart guy plays to cute girl’s ego… earns brownie points…”

“ohh… forget a brownie, I’m aiming for the whole devil’s food cake!”

“you’ve got to be exceptional for me to give you a cake Slughorn…”

“Give a Ravenclaw a task and he’ll get it done…”

Suddenly another guy steps over, clearing his voice as the lights on our equipment all match up. He looked… uncomfortable? His gaze shifted to Bryce then back to him but before even an introduction could be made the vendors were motioning us to enter the copy-cat rooms… seconds after the champions entered their rooms solo.

The rules were simple, enter the room, solve the riddle…riddles… and earn your freedom. Five spells maximum allowed. Then we were locked inside.

The man-less instruments in the corner seemed intent on making themselves known the moment we walk in. Not obnoxious or anything… but it certainly did not seem necessary.

“Sorry, don’t think I know you… are you from Durmstrang or Beauxbatons?”

“Ilvermony actually… initially…”

“Persephone this is James… he’s in Hufflepuff…” I was not mistaken when the new guy, James, seemed to wince when his house was announced. “And, James, Persephone… Persephone Lestrange” I was also not mistaken when it seemed that there was some underlining comment laced in the way he announced my name.

“Lestrange?”

“You’ve done some homework Bryce?” I chuckle, after the ne… James, repeated and looked utterly baffled. “Yes… Lestrange, and yes, I am related to Blaise, he’s my brother”

“He is?” Bryce seemed to choke out as if he hadn’t dared to think that. But why else make a point of stating my last name? “I, I guess maybe I thought you were an American cousin or something…”

Did he read my mind? Both guys were staring, gawking really as if I had suddenly sprouted Niffler’s fancy or some other ridiculously impossible thing.

I wasn’t sure what difference it made if I was his cousin or sister, but whatever. I wasn’t even in the mood to get into that whole conversation at the moment. Instead, I started moving around the room and fiddling with random objects. What a freakin’ dump… all folksie and rustic and cozy. And junkie. Things were just, everywhere. What was the riddle… to figure out why no one bothered straightening up this place?

“Well what the hell are we supposed to do now?” I grumbled before flopping down on the sofa while the two guys did their own scan of the room. Just then words began to form on the piece of parchment sitting on the table, obviously our first clue.

I still wasn’t sure I wanted to be bothered with this silly room, but Bryce was certainly worth looking at while I was cooped up in here, and both guys seemed super curious about the whole thing. Lifting the paper, Bryce began reading out loud while James seemed to inspect it over his shoulder. Then simultaneously they glanced around the room again.

“Do you think it’s something in the room we are supposed to find or we just answer the question?” Bryce asked, James shrugged. He was a quite one apparently, having only said one word the entire time we had been in the room so far. 

I smirked, “do you know the answer to the question in order to answer it?” I finally got up and walked over to where they were, brushing up against Bryce’s side as I leaned forward and took a look at the paper, but not before I grinned and winked at him tauntingly. “I mean… we were told we would be doing spells… so I suppose we are looking for an item… something enchanted…”

Bryce shifted, brushing up against me as he grinned. “maybe it’s you…”

“Awful!” I laughed at the horrid line.

“It won’t be anything literal, so that lady statue by the fireplace is out…”  Well that was an insightful observation, I thought to myself as I rolled my eyes. But I continued to stare at the paper trying to pick out useful clues.

“… something not useful in summer but good in winter, or maybe fall...” I repeated, more to myself than to them but James’ eyes lit up.

“The fireplace?” I looked and I mean… it seemed a logical choice

“What spell though?”

“Incendio!” Bryce uttered and immediately fire erupted inside the stonework, bellowing and swirling until they began to form words, much like what happened on the paper. James and Bryce grinned excitedly and I found myself wondering how on earth they could feel so elated and enthusiastic over this. Is this really what muggles did for fun? Locking themselves up in rooms and doing word play puzzles? And why was that fake band playing that damn music so loud suddenly?

James seemed to rather quickly surmise the next clue with Bryce eagerly agreeing that the clock had to be the answer. But what to do with it? Make it stop working? Maybe it run faster? Two spells were wasted trying to do both. I stepped closer, more out of a desire to see this silliness over than actual need. There appeared to be a tiny keyhole in the center of the face… a lock. Could it be that simple?

As it turned out… it was that simple. A quick unlocking spell and suddenly words floated into the air around us, shifting from a scrambled mess into another shadowy clue while the music grew even louder. It was incredibly distracting and aggressively intrusive. It didn’t help matters that we were down to our last spell… if we got this wrong we would fail, and I certainly was not stepping a foot outside this room to let anyone know that I failed figuring out some stupid muggle task… absolutely not. I shook my head, really  trying to figure out any clue in the sentence before me but growled out in frustration...

“There certainly isn’t any damn silence in this room right now…” And immediately we all three looked at each other, certainty filling our faces.

Simultaneously we spoke “Silencio” and immediately the room went quiet. Eerily quiet. And I wondered if we had failed… and since we had used our last spell we were screwed. But… no, a heartbeat later dark ink began to spread across the parchment again, the final message mysteriously penned before the door lock suddenly clicks and spills open.

(I may try to come back to this and add some, but time is getting away from me so for the most part this is done)

R1-DONE | R2-DONE

Last edited by BambiFoxx (10/09/2020 at 01:03)

Naz // 17 // Slytherin
Interests: Blaise // Jordan // Rey // Sidh (I imagine I'll also be interacting with Nik and Nela quite a bit though)

Story

The light peaking through the curtains is still enough to blind my poor waking eyes. I give myself a few moments to adjust to the morning before sitting up. I woke up feeling calm, but as the fogginess in my mind slowly begins to clear I remember the events of the day before and anger returns. That quickly changes to confusion, though, when I notice a stranger sat opposite me. With her back to me, she brushes her long, dark hair.

"Who the bloody hell are you?"

No answer. Instead I'm met with a reflection of her cold eyes as she continues brushing her hair. The fact she straight up ignores me annoys me once more, and I cross my arms to show it.

She finally turns around and smirks. "Well I bloody well am Persephone Lestrange, in the flesh!" Her smirk evolves into what appears to be a genuine smile, "You're welcome to meet me."

I ignore her outstretched hand, still uncertain as to who she is. My face matches my inner confusion. "Lestrange?"
"Ummhmm... Persephone…" she repeats. She leans forward and catches my hand and shakes it. I quickly pull away. She's got some nerve grabbing me like that. If it had been anyone else, I probably would have exploded, yet somehow I'm left admiring this girl's confidence.

She continues, "and you’re Naz… some last name or another. I heard a great deal about you last night."
"Huh... wait, what?" Part of me feels flattered that she already knows who I am, the other part wonders which cockroaches she's been talking to and what she's apparently heard. As I stand there with a frown on my face, she pats the spot next to her on her bed, encouraging me to sit. I remain standing, still not sure about her. I've always hated these stupid beds, the only people who could possibly find them remotely comfortable are the likes on Niklaus who are probably used to sleeping on the floor. I would much rather have my bed from home.
"What exactly have you heard?"
"Ummhmm they were telling me all about how a muggle won that thingy y’all do here and how bad it sucked and I totally agree... like I have no idea what it's all about and all but I can just imagine how horrid a feeling that must be... one of them coming out ahead. It’s unthinkable.”

I allow my face to relax a little, almost mustering a smile. Then the meaning of her last name suddenly dawns on me "Wait, Lestrange? You're related to Blaise?"
"Well... duh... you would be like the first person in the history of ever to not see we look so much alike." I personally didn't think they looked that similar. Sure, they have the same dark hair and I guess their nose shape is kinda similar, but Blaise's dull, murky eyes were no match for her striking pair. I don't voice this though.
"I don’t understand... you can’t be his sister Persephone... she’s much younger."”
"Well not MUCH... but yes I’m younger, as he so annoyingly likes to remind me."
"How old are you?" I ask.
"17. And no, we aren't twins." she sounds almost bored as she explains. I guess it must be something she has to state a lot.

Finally I find myself crossing the creaky floor over to Persephone's bed, plopping myself down beside her.
"I don't get it, you haven't been in school and-" I stopped midsentence, horrible thoughts creeping into my mind. I slowly, but surely noticeably, shuffle away from her slightly. "You weren't a squib until now were you?" I whisper.
"Merlin’s beard nooo!" As I feel my body relax it was Persephone's turn to be horrified. She doesn't seem offended though (not that I'm too fussed if she is), and we're soon laughing at the idea.

I don't have classes until this afternoon and I'm certainly not hungry, so I spend what's left of the morning getting to know this strange new witch. She seems cool. I think, maybe, I'll let her into the group.

* * * * *

“Who’d guess an amazing and pure wizard like yourself would stoop to such muggle ways of expressing anger.”
"Shut up Sidh, I'm not in the mood." I say, slumping down into the empty seat beside him.
"Guessing you're not in a better mood?"
I glare at him, "Do I look it?"
The smug smile quickly disappears from Sidh's face, "I'm gonna guess no?"
"And you'd be correct."
"Well, I don't blame you Naz. We're all pretty mad about him being our champion. Still, didn't expect you to react like that though." I look at Blaise as he speaks, only just realising he's also at the table, as well as a guy I don't recognise.
"What can I say, I was furious. Still am." I mutter, reaching for a jug of juice and pouring myself a cup.
"I'm sorry, newbie here. What are you guys talking about?" My attention turns once more to the stranger who is also sat with the group, now looking confused.
"And you are?"
"Sorry, Andrei. And you?"
I start tapping the cup I'm still holding. The contents are ice cold, the complete opposite of my current mood.

Sidh, on the other hand, looks bemused. "Remember we told you about our OTT, slightly psycho friend?"
"Naz?" Andrei questions. Sidh and Blaise both nod, and Andrei looks back at me once more. "Naz!"
"The legend herself." I say, putting the cup down and throwing my hands half-heartedly in the air. "And apparently I punched Niklaus last night."
"Apparently? Half of Gryffindor saw it happen!" the group snigger at Sidh's remark.
"Yeah well I don't remember doing it do I. You know what I'm like when I go off on one." It came out forcefully, but I'm half smiling as I talk.
"Damn right I do" Sidh murmurs.

As we eat, we talk. Persephone joins us at some point and I smile to acknowledge her, but she's keeping quiet. Andrei shares a little bit about himself, primarily talking to me as the others seem to know him already, but I'm barely listening. Instead, I'm looking at the 'Naz stinks' badges a few of the Gryffindors are wearing.
"You know what really gets me?" I start loudly, cutting Andrei off midsentence. "The fact that the most prestigious school in the wizarding world is being represented by a filfthy mudblood. And now the mutt thinks he's the king of the school!"

Silence fell in the room, and the eyes of the crowd formed around the Gryffindor table turned to ours - or more specifically me. Blaise smiles and his eyes light up, whilst Sidh shifts in his seat uncomfortably and Persephone and Andrei stare blankly.
"Well come on Naz, perhaps this is a fantastic opportunity for the world to finally see how revolting they are."
"Yeah, you're quite right Blaise. Maybe when Niklaus loses, old McGonagall will finally do the right thing and ban them from Hogwarts. And if we're really lucky, the Minstry of Magic will put them all in their correct place. Right next to the house elves."

Gasps and murmours break out across the Great Hall. I glance over to the Gryffindor table - the crowd is blocking my view of Niklaus so I cannot see his response, but the jaw of the mudblood witch sat next to him is twitching. It's Jordan, though, who gets up and begins to walk over.

Wanting to avoid conversing with him, I tell my group I'll see them later and quickly head towards the door. Jordan is quicker though, and grabs my wrist. "You need to stop."
"Stop what?" I say sharply, spinning round to face him. "You want to play best friends with that filfth go for it. But don't expect me to because I sure as hell won't. Mother and father would be so disappointed if they could see you."

And with that, I strut out of the room.

* * * * *

"Draught of Peace, can anyone tell me what it is used for?" Whispers bounce around the room, but only one student answers the professor's question.
"Isn't it for relieving anxiety and agitation?"
"Correct. And can anyone tell me the ingredients needed to make such a potion?" Porcupine quills, powdered moonstone and a unicorn horn of course - but I daren't voice my knowledge. Instead, I lie with my head resting on my arms on the table. The professor glances at me dispairingly every once in a while, but deep down they're probably just grateful I'm not causing any trouble.

The teacher doesn't stop droning for at least 10 minutes - though their voice gradually gets quieter as my head rolls closer to the table.

Someone taps my shoulder. I grunt. They tap again, "Naz!"
"What?"
"Time to start working." that annoying voice can only be Rey.
An urgh escapes my mouth as I push myself up from the table.
"Were you asleep?" Rey questions. Of course I was, the imprints on my cheek and the drool on the table could have told him that.
"For someone who's meant to be so clever you really are dumb."
Rey opens his mouth to respond, but thinks better of it. Instead, he flips the textbook open and asks if I know what we're supposed to be doing.
"Making a Draught of Peace?" Rey nods to confirm my lucky guess. "Well, have fun I guess." and with that I rest my head down once more.
"Erm, not quite." he replies, tapping my shoulder.
"Stop."
"I'm not going to stop until you sit back up and help me, Naz."

My eyes open and automatically glare at him. "You're smart, you can do it yourself."
"Give over, you know you're just as good at potions as me. You just don't try."
"Well what's the point in trying?"
Rey looks stumped, before spurting out some rubbish about being the best you can be.
"I'm not in the mood okay. So just leave me alone."
"So you're still annoyed about Nik being the champion?"
"Of course."
"Well, by behaving like this you're just letting him win more."

That gets my attention. I sit back up and face him. "How so?"
"Well, by being mardy all the time you're just showing Nik that he's getting to you. If you were nicer and smiled at him, kept your anger on the inside -"
"You want me to be nice to that mudblo-muggle born?" I shriek, with the class turning to me and the teacher giving me a stern look. Rey shifts uncomfortably.
"Not nice. Nicer." he emphasises the 'er'.
"Have you been on the butterbeer? Cos you're talking complete nonsense." He smiles a little at that remark.

Of course, I'm not going to be nicer to Niklaus, or anyone like him for that matter, but part of me does appreciate his effort for trying. "So are we doing this or what?"
He looks taken aback that I actually want to make the potion, but we get going.

The Draught of Peace is a complicated potion to make, but me and Rey made one of the best in the class.

At least, I think we did. I wouldn't know, as Rey knocked our cauldron over before the professor could check it.

* * * * *

The evening following the potions class is a glorious one, and so it only felt right to spend my time in one of the less-busy gardens. The grounds are one of the few places which can actually subdue my foul moods. They're truly beautiful and always make it possible to capture Hogwarts magnificence, no matter the angle.

I spend some time practicing some meaningless charms before lying on my back and staring up at the sky. I search for any shapes I can spot in the clouds, but their coverage is too low to find anything. So instead I close my eyes, and have my second nap of the day.

I awake to what I can only describe as a monster stamping in my head. A quick glance at my arms tells me I've been in the sun for too long so I begin to head inside. I'm not entirely sure what comes over me, but I find myself humming a fairly upbeat tune.

That is, until I'm face to face with Niklaus, who's leaning against the corridor wall.
"Not got your fanclub with you?" I can't help it.
"I'm not looking for trouble, Naz."
"If you're not looking for trouble, quit the tournament."
"And what would that do?"
"Ermm make sure someone worthy is the champion?" I roll my eyes.
"Naz," he leans forward, "I'm Hogwarts' champion whether you like it or not."
"Well, we'll see about that."
"And what does that mean?"
"Nothing for you to worry about, our precious champion." The final words are spat out. Niklaus goes to open his mouth but I'm already walking off. I think I will follow Rey's advice about being nicer to Niklaus.

Just maybe in a slightly different way then what he meant.

Everyone likes chocolate, right?

* * * * *

I'll be forever grateful that the caretakers aren't the brightest. They often forget to lock the classrooms when lessons are done for the day, perfect for when I have personal projects.

With only 30 minutes in the potions lab I've whipped up a Befuddlement Draught. It's basic, and takes no time at all. In fact, the hardest part is injecting the potion into the chocolate.

As I work I have a smile on my face. It's a simple plan really. Step 1 - make the potion. Step 2 - insert into chocolate. Step 3 - somehow get Niklaus to eat the chocolate before the first task. Step 4 - watch as he becomes more and more reckless and confused, and completely fail the task. Step 5 - Niklaus becomes the most hated student in Hogwarts. Step 6 - I offer to become the new champion in order to save Hogwarts' reputation. Step 7 - win the tournament and bathe in eternal glory. Like I said, simple. Well, I'll admit McGonagall might not let me replace Niklaus, but completely humiliating that filfthy little worm is more than enough for me right now.

Just as I'm finishing tidying up one of the caretakes comes in. When he asks what I'm doing in the classroom after hours I smile sweetly and say that I was just returning a textbook I'd borrowed from the professor.

Stupid squib, if he believes that he'll believe anything. And people still believe that squibs are as good as us purebloods. Ha!

* * * * *

The corridors are packed as excited students push their way to the arena. Laughter echoes around the hallways whilst groups of friends chatter loudly. I on the other hand had been the complete opposite; I had been up at the break of dawn making final preparations for the day. Now I stand leaning against the wall, silently waiting for my opportunity.

"Oi, come here" I shout at an unexpecting first year Hufflepuff. She looks alarmed but approaches.
"Y-yes?"
"When the tournament is about to begin, I need you to take these down to the champions and offer one to each of them." I present her with a small, blue box. She takes it and apprehensively opens it.
"Chocolates?"
"Yes. And you need to make sure that Nik" I point to one of the four chocolates, the one that contains the Befuddlement Draught, "takes this one."
"Why?"
"It's his favourite flavour."
"Why can't you give them yourself?"
"Okay I know you're a frist year, but surely you know who I am?" she nods her head. "So do you really think any of them trust me?" this time she shakes. "Which is why I need you."
"What do I say to them?"
"That it's a good luck present from you or something. Which it is, isn't it?"
The girl looks hesistant. "W-what if I d-don't want to?"
I show a smirk. "Oh well I guess I can use the imperius curse."
Her panic-filled eyes widen. "You wouldn't, they're ille-"
"Do you know who my family are? Do you really think illegalities will stop me?" I pause for a second, giving her time to take in what I said. "So?"
"I-I'll do it."
"Good girl. Now remember, go down as close to the task starting as possible."

A little while later, I'm amongst a wave of people shouting and cheering. Everyone is wearing a smile, but I wear mine for a different reason. I spy the Hufflepuff girl walking down to the champions' tent. She gets stopped at the door, before being allowed inside.

She's out of sight. All I can do is hope.

[I've done 4 chocolates so I'm not forcing events, you can decide if Nik takes the laced chocolate, or if he leaves it and one of the other champions eats it, or if no one takes it and it's the only one left in the box]

* * * * *

"I am not taking part in that." The crowds have basically dispersed now, leaving me sat with my arms crossed with a group of friends.
"I think it sounds like fun." I glare at Sidh, as do some of the others around us.
"Sidh, didn't you hear. This is a muggle game."
"With a wizard's twist" he tries arguing, but for the majority of us our feelings don't change.
"Yeah, well I won't be taking part in something so foul." Blaise and Persephone voice their objections to the task too.

Sidh shifts position. He clearly wants to play, but apparently won't do it alone. "Come on, this is a once in a life time opportunity." I look at Persephone and we roll our eyes simultaneously; we're still not convinced. "Besides, imagine if you do it better than Nik does."

Now that catches my attention. How amazing would that be, Niklaus completely failing and me succeeding immensely.
"Fine, I'm in."
Both Persephone and Blaise look at me eyes wide open, but Sidh grabs my arm, presumably before I can change my mind. I allow him to drag me down to join the queues formed infront of the vendors. Everyone looks and sounds so excited at the idea of being able to experience the task first hand that I can't help but focus on what Sidh's words and get lost in a whirlpool of my own thoughts. That is, until I feel a tap on my shoulder.

"I have a name you know." turning around already knowing it'll be Rey.
"Sorry, I just thought we could be in a group?"
"Sure, whatever." I say monotonely, not caring in the slightest who I'm partnered with.
"All groups are randomly assigned" a vendor booms beside me, handing me a pair of binocculars. They feel flimsy and cheap. Fun. I notice there's a small red spot flashing on the underside of them.

"There you are." Sidh pushes through one of the queues and it's only then that I realise he'd vanished a few moments ago. He nods an acknowledgement towards Sidh before turning back to me. "Looks like we've been put in the same group."
I look down at my binocculars and spot that the red flashing circle is now green.
"Great."
"Tell your face that then." he retorts with a smile. Rey mumbles his goodbyes and heads off towards some Ravenclaw girl.
"Who do you reckon our third is?"
"I'm really not arsed if I'm honest."

But it turns out I did care.

The third member of our group is Nela. She storms over towards us, her face red and fury in her eyes. Before I even have the chance to comment on her presence she's thrust her fist into my left eye. "That's for Nik."

The blow causes me to stumble backwards. My hand automatically comes up to my now throbbing eye. "You little b*tch." Despite only having half of my vision I raise my wand up to her face, but Sidh takes it from me.
"No."
"Oh so you're going to do something about it yourself are you?" I question, turning to face him. I was expecting to see his face full of rage but instead I'm greeted by a laugh.
"Come on, I bet it didn't hurt that much." But it did. Quite a lot, actually. "Don't give what you can't take."
"I'm sorry, who's side are you on?" I shriek at him.
"Come on, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Can't we just work together this one time?" he looks back and forth at me and Nela.
Nela shrugs. "I'm not exactly happy about working with her, but I'll admit this is a special ocassion so I'm sure you and me and can work together."

Before I have a chance to counter our names have been called and we're ushered into the room. Sidh and Nela look around, talking amongst themselves, whilst I plonk myself down on the sofa. I'm not sure who I am more annoyed at: Nela for blackening my eye, or Sidh for not even being bothered about - sorry, laughing at - her assaulting me. A storm brews inside me.

"Can I have my wand back." Nothing. Too busy trying to solve their precious riddle. "CAN I HAVE MY WAND BACK!" This time Sidh hears. He passes the wand to me and before he can tell me not to try anything it's pointed at Nela.

"Furnunculus."

A golden beam hits Nela, causing her to shriek and bring her hands to her face. Her defence barriers are too late though; when she removes her hands a large boil is forming on her cheek. "You little-" she raises her own wand but I can do nothing but cackle.
"Nela, no!" Sidh interjects.
"Why not! Just look at me!" Boils are now spawning all over her face.
"We're only allowed five spells remember! Naz has already wasted one of them, is your revenge really worth losing another?"
Nela looks furious, but lowers her wand. She glares at me one final time before turning around and scanning the room. Sidh also scowls at me before doing the same. I, on the otherhand, slump further into the sofar. That felt good.

Really good.

Now that's over and done with I finally take in my surroundings. We're in a small, cramped room full of bizarre objects. The instruments in the corner of the room are playing by themselves. Loudly. Very loudly. I imagine some may like the music, I on the otherhand hate string instruments and so instead am rather annoyed.

"This grandma sits still and ready but during summer she's a useless old lady. Then winter arrives, however, or even fall, and all of a sudden she's loved by all. What can that possibly mean?"
"Hmm I'm not sure, perhaps a rocking chair?"
"What? Why would it be a rocking chair?"
"I don't know, old ladies like rocking chairs?"
"Hey Nela, don't stand too close to the fireplace. We don't want you to boil now do we." I can't help myself. Nela scowls at me once more, before her eyes open wide.
"Merlin's beard that's it, it's the fire place. Incendio."

A fire starts in the fireplace, flames dancing and swirling all around the room. They don't burn though, instead they form words. It always runs but never leaves its place.

"Just so we're all aware, I'm taking full credit for solving that one." I chime.
"You're doing nothing but sitting on your backside and pissing people off." Nela snaps. Under normal circumstances I'd respond, but the large, vile boils oozing from her face are enough to satisfy me.

No one talks for a few moments, and the only sound that can be heard is the music from the instruments - which is even louder now. Sidh is the first to speak. "I think it might be water."
"Water?" Nela looks hesistant.
"Yeah, it makes sense. Water runs, and it replaces itself so it's like it never leaves it's place. What do you think Naz?"
"Sorry, I'm just sitting here on my backside and pissing people off" I mutter, picking at my fingernail. Sidh looks back at Nela, who shrugs, and then picks up his wand.

"Aguamenti."

Nothing happens. Well, except a small amount of water drips from his wand. Sidh looks a little disappointed and for a second I feel for him, before remembering he didn't stick up for me.

"Sorry, I've just wasted another spell."
"Wait what about time?" Nela says excitedly. "That runs but doesn't move."
Sidh matches her excitement. "Yeah, that could be it."
"Alohomora."

The weird little lock on the big pendelum clock unlocks and the numbers on the clock face rearrange into words. Right now I'm not present here, and if you say my name I disappear.

The clock pendelum swings loudly, numbing the growing forte of the musical instruments. The noise is unbearable; it's making the bruising around my eye hurt ten times more and the headaches from spending too long in the sun returns. I'm aware that Nela and Sidh are discussing the next riddle but I'm in too much pain to take in what they're saying. "Arghh I can't take this anymore. Silencio."

The music instantly stops playing and the pendulum simultaneously stops swinging. Silence at last.
"What did you do that for, you just used our last spell!" Nela shrieks. She's annoyed, mad in fact, but I just can't take her seriously when she looks such a mess.

Sidh also looks annoyed, but before any of us can say anything more words appear on the parchment lying on the table in front of me. A duel is due. Get ready. It's all up to you. And then the door opens.

"Is that it? Is it over?" Nela asks.
"Yeah, I think Naz accidentally solved the last riddle. Nice one"
"Well, what can I say. I'm a natural." I flick blonde hair over my shoulder smuggly. Nela goes to say something but I cut her off - "I'd run along to matron and grab some Boil-Cure Potion if I was you. That could leave a nasty scar."

* * * * *

"Yes but you should have stuck up for me." I say loudly as I enter the common room, Sidh close behind me.
"What's got your wand in a twist now Naz?" Blaise grins. Persephone, on the other hand, jumps up and rushes over to me. She grabs my chin and pulls it so my cheek is in the light.
"Merlin's beard, what happened to you?" she asks. Blaise leans forward, now looking slightly more concerned.
"Ask him." I say, jerking my head out of her grip and pointing at Sidh. The duo look at him expectingly.
"Nela punched her." Their confusion turned to shock.
"Except" my voice gets even louder, "he missed out the part where he did nothing BUT SNIGGER."
"I didn't snig-"
"You laughed and you sure as hell didn't do anything about it."
"You did punch her friend first."
"That's not the point! You're supposed to be my friend, friends stick up for each other. You know I'd do anything for you."
"You got your revenge, you covered her in boils!"
"Yes but you should have been the one to step in."
"It was just a punch!"
"And it hurt a heck of a lot!"
"Like I said at the time, don't give what you can't-"
"ARGHH." For once in my life, I can't stand all of the eyes being on me, and I definitely can't stand being around Sidh anymore. I barge past him and head back out of the common room, the door slamming loudly behind me.

* * * * *

When I began walking I was angry, but the longer I walk the the more my fury evolves into sadness and the greater I struggle to hold back the tears. I despised Nela but at least her actions are kinda justifiable but Sidh - that was just downright betrayal. I know we broke up some time ago but we'd remained close friends throughout. I clearly care about him more than he cares about me though.

"Natalie." I ignore the call and quicken my step. "Natalie."
"Leave me alone" I shout back. No one calls me Natalie except one person, and I am by no means in any mood to talk to him.

But my brother's footsteps hasten and he is soon beside me. "Natalie, stop."
"And what are you gonna do if I don't? Seriously what would you do Jord?"
"Well, nothing."
"Exactly, so just leave me alone."

But with his increased speed he is now in front of me and I'm forced to stop.
"What?"
He also stops in his tracks, and for asecond - just a split second - concern is shown on his face. "How'd you get that mark on your face, Naz? What happened?"
I scoff. "Oh, so your little mudblood friend didn't tell you?"
"Nela did that?" he looks taken aback.
"Yup."
"Well, you did cover her in boi-"
"Yeah, after she assaulted m-"
"After you assaulted Nik."
"Why are you sticking up for them Jord? Can't you see that they're below us?"
"But they're not. Nik and Nela and all the other muggle-borns are just the same, if not better."
"Oh my gosh how can you even say that?"
"How can you not?"
"Because I was raised properly."
Jordan laughs, "By properly you mean by our satanic parents."
"Just let me past."

I try to push past him but he still blocks me. "Why does it bother you so much?"
"What?"
"Not being a Triwizard champion?
"It doesn't."
"Naz."
"Becsuse it was my one chance to prove myself. All my life I have been compared to you and it's never enough for anyone. You always win." Now the tears fall.
"Naz-"
"MOVE" I attempt to push past him once more and this time I'm successful. I make a beeline to the door and stumble outside, unable to stop the tears from falling. Without a thought I head to my favourite spot.

The Forbidden Forest.

Darkness has now enveloped the sky and my only light source is the silver slivers of moonlight peeking through the trees. The leaves around me dance magnificently in the air as cold air caresses them. I shiver, I'd forgotten a coat in my haste.

Sidh constantly tells me off for coming in here by myself. I can't help but smile slightly as I recall his warnings of wolves and acromantulas. None of it really phases me though, I enjoy the silence too much.

And that's how it is. Silent. It's almost eery in a way. But I like it. It gives me the chance to just think.

I make my way deeper and deeper into the forest, knowing exactly where I'm going. There's this lake, a lovely little thing which is so... calming? I don't know. It's just nice.

But I don't quite make it there. The sound of crunches created by footsteps on leaves behind me brings me to a sudden halt. The footsteps also stop. I crane my neck around but it's so dark I can't see anything more then a couple of inches away from my face. Fear begins to creep in and Sidh's stories tiptoe back into my mind.

The footsteps quicken and before I can think any more the footsteps quicken and something is charging towards me. With shaking hands I take out my wand and cry the first spell that comes to mind.

"Flipendo!"

Outfits

Outfit 1:
Meeting Persephone



Outfit 2:
Lunch, potions class, and making Nik's potion



Outfit 3:
Tournament task and evening shannonigans
(Slight red mark for bruise on 2nd image - best I could find)

COMPLETE
I feel like my writing style has massively evolved since the first contest two years ago so I apologise for any change

Last edited by Fashion-Chic (09/09/2020 at 18:48)

Sofia Elizabeth Morgan
Charms Professor at Ilvermorny
Face Claim: Grazi Massafera
Age: 38
Interests: Andrei, Sibellius, Fletcher

Chapter I. Back to Hogwarts

Her morning routine has changed quite a lot in the last decade and oftentimes while chatting to anyone she is certain will understand her humour, Sofia makes sure her routine is now her ritual.

Waking up early, having a workout before that first cup of coffee in the morning (not the watered-down American thing, no), she usually takes some time for herself.

Apparently, having a kid way too early in your life gives you the option of doing that in your forties. You’ve been through hell while your stamina was at its peak, you get to chill in the mornings now.

Okay, it might have had to do with Andrei, too, which might as well be another pat on her shoulder, but the kid was okay. Especially all things considering. A little bit selfish, but you need to prioritize yourself, right?

It could be the setting, making her touch all those important things, going through her entire life and doing these microanalyses of everything. Hogwarts was always a place of deep trauma and deep love at the same time, reminder set in stone and magic that did that one important thing of reminding her of what really mattered.

And right now, it was the little asshole not paying attention to things around him.

He’s chatting through the speech and she’s glaring at him through it, which just proves to show they share DNA.

A round of applause roars through the room as the champions are greeted – she was happy Andrei had no desire of putting too much energy into one of these things – and she stands up, along with the majority of faculty, to join.

Kids scattered like there was no tomorrow, and she scans for familiar faces in the group.

She met Cassandra Mills Bogdanov ages ago in one of the birthday parties Aleksei threw (for himself) – but she cannot say she has the fondest memories of the woman. She did fit into what she assumes her ex-husband would call a close family friend: rich, influential, unscrupulous.

Sofia waved shortly, before turning back to this little game of ‘can you guess if you met this person’. She was shit with names, always has been. But, there’s a familiar face in this crowd – or two, or three – and yet, she finds her thoughts running towards that time. Alecto Carrow had her own taste for imaginative ways of tormenting students and Sofia of the time had no idea how to choose your battles. The only scar she can recall in her life was made in one of these classrooms, and aside from a new mindset, she took back with her one more thing she will wear until the end of her days.

It was a matter of public knowledge that the Carrows took it to themselves to make sure the lesson was made clear, and the person getting the punishment was also a lesson to everyone else.

Carrows were both in Azkaban now. The lesson has been learnt, tho.

Chapter II. Things might get fun

Okay, she might have forgotten it wasn’t as exciting to watch some of these things from this far away, but she sits there, trying to fake interest.

“I imagine none of your students is participating.”

Not good enough. Sofia turns with the largest of smiles, trying at least.
“Yours are?”
“Zion Yang,” the man says, sitting down next to her, she offers a bit more space, pulling to the left.
“Durmstrang,” Sofia realizes the man sitting next to her is none other than Fletcher Krum, principal of Durmstrang himself. –“Your boy seems to be doing well,”
“How is yours doing?”
“Uninterested,” she chuckles, nodding towards one of the groups – Andrei seemed to be doing well which is slow compared to when he actually gives a shit. She loves him, but she’s also able to see him. It’s a fucked-up thing to do, as a mother.

“And he actually is my boy,” she nods with a playful little shrug. –“Son, so I’m partly happy he is not in any proper danger, you know?”
“One might call this honour,”
“One might,” she agreed. –“I hope Zion makes you proud,”
“Oh, he will,” Fletcher smiled proudly, it might have been some softness behind it too, but she keeps her eyes on the groups, trying to figure out if Andrei is actually going to do shit before the time is out. He does – she smiles, proudly, it’s unconcealable.

Fletcher smiles at her.

“He’s doing well.”
“Leta is the one doing well,” there’s another voice joining, prompting Sofia and Fletcher to turn. The man joins them, sitting down to the other side when she finally concluded she will have no choice but to actually follow what is going on. The man mussed something in French.

“Sibellius,” Fletcher rolled his eyes. –“May I introduce you to— uhm, we haven’t met,”
“Yeah, sorry,” Sofia smiles. –“Sofia, Ilvermonry,”
“Fletcher Krum,” he says, before pointing to the other man. –“And this is Sibellius Nonàme,”
“Principal of the winning team,” he smiles, making her smile back. –“I take it you have no experience with Triwizard tournament, then?”
“I’ve seen a couple before, actually,” she says. –“Participated in none, I’m afraid,”
“It’s a thrilling experience,” Sibellius replies. She can tell he means it.

There’s some bickering between the two and she is gladly listening to both, making things more fun in any case.

Chapter III. Hogsmeade

Andrei found his way to Sofia in the library.

“You told me about this place,” he noted before she got to question. –“Like, two months ago,”
“I’m never sure if you’re listening, little dude,” she grinned at his eye roll – he did not like his childhood nickname, obviously, but he let her slide every now and then. –“What’s—”
“What are you reading?”

Sofia closes the book, shrugging it to the side.
“Keeping myself busy,” she looks outside the window. The rain still poured as hell. –“I was planning on going for a run around the grounds,”
“Very muggle of you,”
“Very,” she nodded. –“You?”
“I was most certainly not planning on doing that, not even close.” Andrei grins, sitting down. –“Actually, some of us were planning on throwing a party, possibly,”
“Please don’t do something stupid,” she grinned.
“I would never,”
“Yeah, that’s why I’m warning,” Sofia replies shortly. –“Should we walk to Hogsmeade for lunch tomorrow?”
“Sure,” he replied. –“I’ll try to wake up in time,”
“That’s highly assuring,” she chuckled. –“I might actually go there now, see what’s new,”
“You haven’t been since we got here?”
“Not yet, no,” she says, realizing how strange it actually was: she loved going to Hogsmeade when she was younger, each time she had the chance to go, she would jump to the opportunity and now she could make the decision for herself, she hasn’t been. Apparently, getting back here took her back to her teenage years.

“I’m off to lunch,” he smiles. –“So, we’re on tomorrow.”

She nodded, closed the book and waved her wand to return it back to its place, going to her room to get dressed. Less than an hour later, she was at the village, browsing the stores, bundled in a leather jacket, trying her best not to buy everything.

Bookstores were always a favorite, and now, as she stands in the used section, browsing through some of the literature that might have been quite controversial when she was here last time, she is finding some information about blood malediction that might have been ignored before.

“Can I help you look something up?”

She shakes her head to the young witch with a sweet smile and turns her attention back to the book. She’s not familiar with the author, she realizes, as she turns the book to the front page, barely making up the name on the thin, time-worn leather. Her eyes run to the shelf, in hope to find something else written by the same author up on the shelf.

The bookstore is quiet at this part of the day, not many people walked in or our since she stepped inside, but the young witch at the register seems to be keen on helping her, asking once again if Sofia is looking for something else.

“Uhm, maybe,” she gives in. –“There’s this insightful section about blood curses in this book, and I’m wondering if the author wrote more, he’s quite new to me,”
“Oh, Lorand,” the girl said. –“There’s one more book, but I’d have to look for it.”

Sofia stood there in silence.

“It will take me some time,” the girl shrugged. –“Owners did not like the mess ‘accio’ spell would make,” there’s a hint of apology in the way she smiled. Sofia nodded, returning to the book in her hand, ignoring the little bell that rang at the door.

The bit about generational skipping seemed like it opened many more opportunities to find the beginning of this, but there seemed to be many types of blood curses to explore.

“Relatively dark topic.”

She jumps, almost, at the sound of a familiar voice.

“I’m sorry,” he smiles. –“I didn’t mean to startle you,”
“You didn’t,” she replied.
“Curious reading,”
“I broaden my views from time to time,”
“Hopefully in the right direction,” Fletcher replied.
“Of course,” Sofia said.
“But blood magic might be a bit too much for those with a weak stomach,”
“What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” she jokes.
“To a point,” he replied. –“I hope you don’t mind,” he continues after a short pause, -“but I noticed you and decided to come to say hi,”
“Why would I mind?” she smiles, turning to the girl behind him. –“Regarding that other book, I’ll stop by tomorrow,”
“I work afternoon,” she nodded, Sofia nods back, putting the book into its place.

“Are you up for something sweet?” she turned to Fletcher. –“I’m craving a good lemon meringue pie,”
“I wouldn’t mind a slice either,” he grinned, extending his hand to let her pass first. They step into the crisp, autumn air, Sofia zipping her jacket back up.

“Puddifoot’s?”
He gives a soft chuckle, nodding.
“What?”
“That place used to have its reputation,”
“I promise if we see too many kids kissing over their cups of tea, we’ll leave,” she grinned. –“My intention isn’t to torture,”
“Good to hear that,” he grinned back, heading with her in that direction. –“How are you liking Hogwarts, compared to Ilvermorny?”
“Oh, I used to go here, for a year,” she nods, moments before they step inside. It was empty, asides from a couple of unsuspecting people, reading their books in peace.
“So, a nostalgic experience?”
“Something like it,” she smiles.
“When were you here?”
“At the most unfortunate of times,” she scoffed. –“Severus Snape was the headmaster,”
“Dark times,”
“And the best, at the same time,” she smiled. –“I left this place hopeful,” the smile holds through her words. It was the truth: it looked like things were going to hell at a point, before they weren’t anymore. The hope you find when you feel everything is about to change for good and for worse is the loveliest of feelings.
“Sounds like an optimistic outlook of the whole thing,” he nodded.
“I imagine you weren’t here during the war?”
“We had battles to fight of our own,” he nodded. –“The history— no, the reputation that Durmstrang had has really damaged it, the war did it no favours.”
“Wars usually don’t,” she says.

There’s a second of silence as the lady approached them, both ordering tea with lemon cakes, and Sofia smiled.

“Perhaps I took things into a very gloomy direction,” she offered.
“No, don’t worry about that,” he said. –“Things happened, it’s wrong to ignore them.”

Well, she knew a bit about that.

“The cake is good,” she grabs a huge spoon. –“Just as I remember it,”
“Far too sweet,” he made a face, putting the spoon down.
“Cakes are meant to be sweet,” Sofia noted, sipping some of the tea.
“To some extent,” he smiled. –“The sugar could have been dialled down a notch,”
“Yeah?”
“I would have,”
“Don’t tell me you can bake?”
“Don’t tell me you don’t,” Fletcher offers a smile.
“You can ask Andrei that his father is much better of a cook than I ever was,” Sofia replied. –“I make mean coffee, American folk shudder at the sight of it,”
“It actually contains coffee?”
“Yeah, and lots of it,” she grinned. –“But I didn’t imagine you as someone who likes baking,”
“If you aren’t lucky enough to find a partner who can, it’s a matter of survival,”
“Yeah, I don’t think it worked out like that for me, either way,” she says, leaving things a little bit confusing. –“Aleksei and I haven’t been together for an eternity now,” she replied nonchalantly. –“It didn’t bring me an inch closer to making a lemon pie.”
“Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it,”
“Yeah, I might stick to getting them from all the shops where they are delicious,” she takes another spoon, making him shake his head playfully.
“At least choose a good place,” Fletcher says in a lower tone, as she looked at the owners listening to their conversation.

She touched the topic of his personal life – but the idea of having one seemed like something he has ignored for a while – highly relatable topic if she was honest with herself. She might not have realized, but the majority of her life was revolving around Andrei, Ilvermorny and her friends were related to one or both of those, and she was not even close to doing something as grand as he had.

It makes him proud, it lights him up talking about Durmstrang, it was clearly his kid – she spoke with the same delusional adoration about Andrei, it’s highly addictive to see another go through the same.

Normally, she found ways to keep work out of her conversations in private conversations, but with him, the two have overlapped – Sofia couldn’t decide if it was a good or a bad thing, but the time spent in his company seemed like a time well spent.

Chapter IV. Son

Andrei dug into his sticky toffee pudding as if he had not devoured the last bit of her cake ten minutes prior when he was still decided on not having any dessert.

“Honestly, you’ll choke,”
“Want some?”
“I’m good,” she nodded, looking at him going at it, still a bit shocked. –“What’s your plan for later?”
“You had some ideas?” he looks up, curious.
“Not really,” she shrugs. –“I’m meeting some professors in the evening, for some drinks—”
“Old people entertainment,”
“Young ass humour,” she retorted, making him chuckle. –“I’m actually meeting someone later,”
“A date?”
“I don’t think so,” he replied, finishing the last bit of the dessert. –“Far too sweet,”
“You licked the bowl,”
“It’s super impolite to leave it,” he shrugged. –“You told me that.”

Sofia rolled her eyes, getting up to go pay the check.

“We’ll stop by the bookstore on our way back,” she said, letting him get dressed. –“Maybe you’d like to pick something up too?”
“Some snacks,”
“That’s not what you find in bookstores,”
“I’ll manage to find another store for it,” he grinned, as they walked out. –“You loved it here,” he stated. –“I can tell why,”
“Really?” Sofia seems surprised.
“You told me about Hogsmeade, but I couldn’t relate to it so far,” he pushes his hands deeper into his pockets. –“Being here, the place seems horribly stuck in time, but kinda in a good way,”
“Good to hear that,” she nodded.
“I’m considering transferring for a year, maybe,” he continued, which is something she assumed he would get to. Andrei has had some great opinions of Europe and all the wizarding schools here only based on what she and Aleksei have told him over the years, so it was not a surprise, not really.

Honestly, she liked the idea.

A change of scenery, some new views, some new people – it would all do him good.

DONE (only bec I am catching up, or trying to).

Last edited by Zaralee (15/09/2020 at 15:24)

Interests: Mathieu, Acel, James, Bryce

Jitters

And so, the day had finally came.
She woke up early, jumped out of the bed practically at the first crack of dawn, then realized that there's still time before the first task would actually begin. Then she noticed that she hadn't prepared any clothes. Five minutes later she has them ready, nothing fancy, she doesn't know what to expect, but mobility would be required. And - of course - school colors, gotta represent. She decided to get a light makeup on, again, nothing too fancy, there might be water balloons thrown at them. Looking in the mirror, she saw... just herself. Nodding, she decided to get breakfast early. That's if she'd actually manage to eat anything. She had to admit that she was nervous about her performance and what the tasks would be. It still wouldn't hurt if she got at least a glass of something to drink, at least...
"And where are you going?" Acel pops up practically before her, almost startling her. Surprisingly, Mathieu's head pops from behind him. She's confused as why that would happen.
"Breakfast, maybe?" she answered them a little unsurely. She still didn't know what to get. "You're not sleeping?"
"Leta, Leta" Acel smiled. "I know you how many years? Six? Seven? How many times you got up at the crack of dawn when nerves were eating you?"
Leta raised her hands, giving up. One of her common charasteristics before exams and important tests was widely known amongst her peers. Even the dumbest ones picked up on that.
"You got me there" she sighed. "But what about your beauty sleep?"
"He'll manage" Mathieu grinned, as if it was his fault that the other boy woke up. "We're better company than pre-task jitters, so come with us."
"Okay, fine" now she gives up completely. True, there was no point in her refusing, she was smiling at them, not really relaxed, but a bit relieved.
It did take them a while, since somebody first forgot that she had slippers on and then forgot her wands out of nerves, but in the end they managed to reach the Great Hall, Acel and Mathieu playfully teasing embarrassed Leta for a moment, before they started to look for a place to sit down. It didn't help that Acel's fans were already circling around them... and then she spotted James, waving to her. That wasn't bad idea, after all he was nice and helpful and a good person to know.
"Guys, I think I found a spot" she said to them, pointing at the table.
"Great, come on then" Mathieu grinned.
"Hi, James" she greeted the Hufflepuff boy, weirdly enough seated at Ravenclaw table, but who she was to judge.
"Hi" came from both Acel and Mathieu... or rather tried to be heard, but that was the moment Acel's fans decided to get all squeals and shrills.
Leta frowned. Acel's fan club was on her bad side, especially certain selected group. Of course, they would follow him and had very clear opinion of her, the one she knew very well and was not pleasant. It really was irritating, as if their idol couldn't have any friends. Plus, he was too nice to tell them to leave him alone. She got used to that, but it was no less irritating.
"I am sorry" Acel's apologies was mostly directed at her, she felt.
"We're used to it completely" Mathieu handed her a glass. Only taking it, she noticed that her hands were shaking a little bit. She nodded regardless of her own irritation. "You could take a picture to make it last longer" he continued and Leta blinked, realizing that it was directed to James.
Indeed, Hufflepuff boy was staring at her companions and now he was chuckling. Leta let out a small smile. There was legend that Beauxbatons' students had huge amount of charm and inner beauty. It was a bit hurting, since many wizards and witches from her school were very talented and even made a few discoveries. Again, it was overshadowed by how beautiful they seemed to be.
"I'm just wandering what they feed you at your school." Leta looked at James a bit flabbergasted. Seriously?!
"Pretty much the same. Right?" Mathieu looked at her, as if he was waiting for confirmation. She needed a while to recover from James' remark.
"Yes" Acel came to her rescue and she managed a small nod "only it is served on plates and much more neatly. Otherwise how would you know proper portion size."
Of course he would say that, even arranging his food. He was a model, neede to watch what he eats and how much. This wasn't a problem for Leta, she wasn't the one to keep strictly healthy diet, then again, she wasn't overfeeding herself, only taking a portion she knows she'd eat... which this time was a small one. Even James seemed to raise his brows on that.
Nerves?, he seemed to ask wordlessly. She nodded.
Look of terror on Acel's face caught her attention; she noticed that somebody placed a drumstick on his place, probably Mathieu. It wasn't long, before somebody snatched it and Acel just stared dreamily...
"Who was that?" she heard. True, the figure was also foreign to her, but she did remember something about Ilvermony and tournament.
She couldn't piece a clue, but help came in person of Bryce... who really could just ask, instead of squeezing between her and James. He explained who the person was... and turned his attention to her.
"How are you feeling, champion? You're looking stunning and ready today."
"Really?" she asks, ignoring cringing faces of other boys. "I don't know, I look almost the same." Almost, minut the outfit. Yes, she was task-ready, especially if it was in colder weather, but it wasn't anything worth noticing. Well, she wasn't playing quidditch, so maybe it was unusual look for her.
"Here" Mathieu shoved some more food on her plate, thankfully, nothing too heavy. "You should have strength for the task."
"I'm not that hungry" she tries to protest, but it was quickly interrupted.
"Proper nutrition is crucial for body and mind alike." She once again was flabbergasted at James' remark.
"We wouldn't want you faint, that would be sad" Bryce joined in, possibly ingoring the eyerolls coming his way.
"They are right" and even Acel added his word, crushing her hope for him to join her in opposition to the other three. "You ate too little."
"Come on, Acel" she sighed. "You know I'm not that..."
"I will feed you, if you won't cooperate" she wasn't sure if Math meant it as a joke, but she relented and tried to eat. That would be embarrassing and she was not ready for this kind of thing in public, even if it would be nice if he would do that...
"My, my, is that a blush...?"
"Oh my God, Bryce!" she exclaimed, exasperated. But true, her face felt a little hot on the cheeks. "I'm not blushing!"

Riddle me this...

"Champions, please enter the room."
She was a bit amused that concept of escape room found its way into the tournament. She wondered a bit it that was test of intelligence... hopefully not. Then again, it seemed also to be a test of creativity, who knows.
Leta looked at the audience, sought a few familiar faces, before mustering her courage and entering the room. She noticed few smiles directed towards her through the crowd which warmed her up. She was ready to face the dangers.
As soon as she entered and the door closed behind her, she looked around. The room seemed crowdy, with a lot of things and instruments playing loudly... and a parchment on the table. She slowly walked up to it, gripping the wand tightly. The words appeared and she read them... only to exclaim with pained tone:
"Oh no! Not riddles!"
She had a very weird relationship with them. Either they were so easy, she could guess the answer on the fly or so confusing she would sit for days before finally thinking something up. This one could easily fall into the latter. So confusing...
She sat down on the couch, biting her lip in intensive thinking process. What could be useless in summer, but in winter...? She looked around the room, trying to piece together the information she was given along with her own general knowledge on things. It's kind of hard to think with that music, it interfered with her train of thought. She doesn't really know how much time passes, but finally, her eyes lock on the fireplace. This could be the potential solution to the riddle, as everything else didn't make sense at all. She walks to it, but there is no fire... How she could start a fire...?
"Oh!" she exclaimed, facepalming. "I'm so stupid... Incendio!" she says, lighting it up.
It seemed to work, as fire started to swirl. For a moment she was just looking at it, before she realized that they formed another words, another riddle. She groans, but this time the riddle is easier for her and she knows what to look for.
Standing before the clock, trying to mute out the uncomfortably loud music, she looks at it, but her mind is blank, she doesn't really know what to do now. And she has four times left. Four spels to cast...
"Immobulus" she says, moving her wand.
The clock stopped working, but that was about it. There was a faint note in the music, that immediately told her that it didn't work. She shook her head, three spells to go and there was nothing she could do... until she noticed a little lock that seemed to be closed... and could be opened.
"Ugh... Let's give it a go... Alohomora!"
Click. The lock seemed to unlock something, but instead of opening, numbers formed another riddle... Just as the music became so deafening that her head started to hurt. She just couldn't think of anything. She had two spells left and at the same time two chances to figure this out. But the tunes were drilling into her brain, blocking out any thinking she could have.
"Enough! SILENCIO!" she practically bellowed... and the room was completely silent. Finally...
She realized that she might've used one of ther two chances to get the riddle right and was completely resigned to lose... until she noticed the words forming on the parchment.
A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you.
"Not another one..." she sighs, but then she noticed that the door opened. She sighs, with obvious relief and walked out the rom into the bright light.
"Champion of Beauxbatons finished the first task!" she head from the announcer and applause was heard.
It took time for her to adjust to the light, but when she spotted Acel and Matthieu enthusiastically clapping along with the latter whistling, a big smile appeared on her face and she waved to them, just gaining huge confidence boost.

completed

Last edited by Siri (09/09/2020 at 19:40)

Name: Jude Collins

Face Claim: Emily Bader

Age: 17

House/Home: Ravenclaw * Hogwarts

Interests: Niklaus, Rey and Rodolphus

Story-DONE

As expected prior to the first task Niklaus was swarmed by members of his own house, and there was a near impenetrable wall of red and gold around him. I understood it, especially after what Naz had done but it didn't make me any less annoyed as I tried to get close enough to wish him to speak instead of shout.

"I just wanted to say good luck," I said after I finally managed to slip past the final few people who seemed to be guarding him.

"Have any more tokens from pizza palace?" he asked with a small smile, "I may need all the help I can get."

"Actually I do," I said as I went to unclasp the necklace I was wearing, the pendant a token from my 10th birthday party. "I expect this back," I said handing it to him.

"Are you sure?" He hesitated to accept

"As long as you promise to give it back."

"I promise," he said as he accepted it and placed it around his own neck.

"See you on the other side." I sad brightly.

"See you on the other side." He echoed.

As I walked away I tried to remember how exactly how many champions had died or been greviously injured during the tournament. The number I came up with was too high, and in that moment I hoped that there was some real magic in the tokens I'd given Niklaus.

***

"Hey where have you been?" Rodolphous asked as I found my way into the stands where the spectators were.

"Does Adelyn have you tracking me now?" I asked still annoyed that his mother had told my mother I'd tried to enter the tournament.

"That's not fair Jude, we're friends."

"Are we Rodolphous?" I asked purposely using his full name.

"We have been for a very long time, and this was one little thing."

"Fine," I started, "But the butterbeer is on you the next time we're in Hogsmeade."

"Deal."

***

We all listened intently as the tournament organizer explained the first task:

Muggles have a very interesting concept of an  escape room in which - you guessed it - have to escape the room. Inspired by that we'll start the first task. The contestants will enter three separate but identical rooms and will have to escape them within an half an hour . A limiting spell has been cast on their wands and they are allowed to use their wands for five spells, no more.

After the champions entered their rooms vendors started to appear and we were told that we'd have a chance to enter the rooms and try it out ourselves almost risk free - unlike our champions and that we'd be doing it in groups of three randomly chosen people.

Please not Naz, was all I thought as I was paired up, first with one of the students from Beauxbatons, Mathieu and then with Rey.

The room itself seemed ordinary enough at first glance...and then words started to appear on a piece of parchment:

This grandma sits still and ready
but during summer she's a useless old lady.
Then winter arrives, however, - or even fall,
and all of a sudden she's loved by all.

"Grandma?" Mathieu asked, "There's no one in here but us, right?"

"Right," Rey said, "I don't think it's referencing a person."

"But what could it be then?" Mathieu asked, "Maybe one of those statues."

"It's the fireplace," I blurted out.

"The fireplace?" Mathieu asked skeptically."I've never heard a fireplace referred to as a grandmother, is that an English thing?"

"Think about it," I started, "you don't need a fireplace in the summer because it's hot, but you do need it in colder months, plus it's built into the room."

"I think Jude's right," Rey added.

"What do we have to lose?" Mathieu said.

"Incendio," I whisper and a fire starts in the fireplace, flames dancing and swirling all around the room.

They don't burn.

Instead they form words.

It always runs but never leaves its place.

What is that, I wonder?

The music grows louder. Uncomfortably loud and we know we  have four spells left.

"I have no idea what that is," I admitted.

"Maybe it's something to do with fire," Mathieu started, "Like it's opposite?"

"Like water, or a river?" I blurted out.

"I don't think that's it Jude," Rey started.

"Well what do you think it is?" I asked.

"I don't know but - "

"I say we just go with it," Mathieu says and he blurted out the spell for water.

That wasn't it, and we only had three spells left.

"I got it," Rey said after a minute, "It's time, like a clock."

"Are you sure?" I asked Rey.

"If I'm wrong you can enchant my quills to say whatever you want for the next week." he replied.

"And if you're not wrong?" I asked.

"Then we're closer to getting out...and you owe me one."

"Go ahead," I said after a few moments pause.

"Alohomora," Rey cast a spell  and the weird little lock on the big pendelum clock unlocked rearranging the numbers on the clock into words.

The pendelum swung loudly, numbing the growing forte of the musical instruments. The noise is unbearable.

Right now I'm not present here,
and if you say my name
I disappear.

"Oh I know this one!" Mathieu shouted over the noise "It's a riddle my dad told me. "Silencio!" he shouted.

There's no sound more, no word,
Absolutely nothing is heard.

All of a sudden - finally - you can think.
In an eerie, but much wanted, silence
The sounds, noise and music turn into ink.

The once clear parchment
is now marked by words:

A duel is due
Get ready.
It's all up to you.

The door opens,
you're done and there's the way,
Remember the last riddle,
until due day.

We escaped the room with 4 spells.

***

"So what exactly do I owe you?" I asked Rey as we exited the room.

"I haven't decided yet," he said with a smirk.

"And when exactly do you plan on deciding?"

"When I'm ready," he laughed and walked off leaving me to stew in my own thoughts.

Round Progress: R1 done, R2 done

Last edited by Dare (08/09/2020 at 21:01)

Manon Cuvelier
Status: R1 done. R2 in progress.

Interests: Jordan, Niklaus, Rey, Zion.

Last edited by siddh (09/09/2020 at 13:27)

ROUND 3 CLOSES: 13th of September

The time to duel has come and once again surprisingly enough they don't duel against each other but alongside one another against various creatures in the depths of this cave. Maybe duel isn’t the right word, but the spells needed are much alike.
Some good knowledge of magical creatures as well.

And you’ve been wondering why was Hagrid so active lately?! He and the organisers built a plethora of magical creatures awaiting you in the cave..

Our champions  enter a dark cave, filled with perils and fright. The cave parts into four passages. All of them contain a piece of puzzle they need for the next hint but only one passage providing them with an exit:



They need all four pieces of the puzzle to get the hint for the next task. The passages are all magically enhanced and function like a microcosmos of their own.

The first passage is a long, very long and very, very still lake, completely covered in dark.This passage is very silent. There is a rowing boat at the start of the lake and the only guiding light is the piece of puzzle - until the creatures are somehow woken up. Then lights appear everywhere, since glowing bugs and erumpents glow on their own. However, maybe the kelpies that don’t glow might turn out to be the bigger problem.

The second passage is a tropical rainforest with a temple resembling Mayan ones. In this passage it is daylight and it is very hot. On top of an active volcano is a pedestal where the piece of the puzzle glows - you can see this from each part of the forest - if you climb on one of the very high trees and look. The forest isn’t the only problem here. The insane amount of fwoopers and pixies might be the bigger problem. So try and tread carefully through the forest - and don’t, I repeat; don’t step on a mandrake or worse, pull it out. Maybe watch out for the devil’s snares as well.

The third passage is a japanese garden. It is beautiful and very, very repetitive. It’s also very cold and snowy and the light is dim, but not dark. The piece can be found in the middle of a stunning lotus-covered pond. But beware,
kappas are not fond
of people entering their pond.
And there is a naughtly little demiguise and his snuffler friend, who are keen on taking your things when you’re not paying attention. Being invisible and having sticky fingers does have its advantage.

The fourth passage seems like a house of horror, with porcelain dolls lying all around. It seems the inspiration they fed on was horror houses from the muggle world. The dolls move and blink, making them even more terrifying. Thing is, a boggart is hiding somewhere in there, perhaps even two and a pixie or a dozen of them may have gotten in as well.

Once the puzzle pieces reach sunlight the hint appears.

The difficult part for our champions here is reaching an agreement and planning ahead, because in order to clear this cave and exit it with all the pieces teamwork is needed. They must decide will they part ways, each taking one passage and if lucky save some time. Or will they tread into peril together and possibly prolong the whole task and survive by picking berries in the tropical forest.

This task can take a day or up to three.

After completing their duel the champions have gotten a hint which gave them some info on what would be asked of them in the next task.

Find me in the darkest place
Where I light up the most humble space.

First you must unlock the gate
that leads you to this famous fate.

But it seems your wand's not here?
Maybe you'll find it somewhere quite near?

Just in case it might be far
Your broom will serve as a muggle's car.

***

Of course the spectators don’t have to die of boredom while the champions are risking their lives in a cave, they can join in with a new set of spectator binoculars - this time with believable pain sensors included! How fun! Once again the binoculars form random groups and you hope you get someone who’s of use! A binocular per person and you don't get to know whom you get until you're there.

I threw your names into a randmiser first, but then I mumbled it up in the end, so you'd get more of your interests

Teamwork is Dreamwork: Cave(wo)men edition
Leta - Niklaus - Zion (champions) - they make it through

Jude - Rey - Rodolphus - Acel
Seff - Bryce - Gemma - Blaise
Freya - Tuesday - Camille - Jules
Naz - Jordan - Nela - Siddh
Manon - Mathieu - Luna - Hagrid
Mary - Ricky - Holly - James
Sofia - Andrei - Sibelius - Fletcher

Groups which clear the cave: Manon's, Seff's, Naz's, Freya's and Sofia's group. Other groups have had some kind of a setback.
(The simulations stop when pain threshold is too strong or when even one of your teammates exits the simulation)

There is a special prize for all who manage to exit the cave so everyone tries extra hard:

A trip to Hogsmeade

The ones who don’t manage to get through stay on cleaning duties.
(It will be chosen by randomiser, so it’s not my fault - it’s your own luck - or lack of it ).

After the second task a huge poster with an event can be found everywhere.

The Triwiz Ball is due next round. Think hard about who might you ask or who might ask you. I guess we'll find out next round.


ROUND 2 REQUIREMENTS:
- interests (max 4)
- your story (impressions - probably - won’t be added but personal plots and brief insights will) and just to clarify, you can write about whatever you want, these are just the events happening this round - you do not have to write about them by default.

Mischief managed

Whoops, seems like someone found Persephone’s bag - and in that bag a very much prohibited artefact. Why, oh, why did this person decide to turn her in, who knows, but the fact remains: Persephone has lost her Slytherin home 50 points, removing them from first place. And better yet she’s doing detention - cleaning the magical creatures stalls - without magic!

While having such great reflexes certainly is a good thing, jinxing the game keeper isn't quite as good, even if it takes a much stronger spell to flip a half-giant. However, Hagrid is a softie, so he doesn't tell on Naz, just gives you a good scolding and insists you stay close. A hoard of Lethifolds has been spotted a week ago and still not all of them are caught, so entering the forest now is not a smart thing to do. He hopes he talked some sense into you and once you're returning, Jordan will be about to enter the forest with Nik and Nela, in the attempt of searching for you - because, guess what. He cares.

… to be added…

Personal plots

Jude
Rodolphus isn’t sure, how to convince you he’s not your enemy, so he’s trying to stay on your good side and he’s trying not to tell his own mother too much about what’s happening around here, so he’s just feeding his mother with all the info on all the various people he’s met so far, making their conversations tedious.
Niklaus is fond of Jude and how easy it is to talk to her. If he wins this tournament and gets the prize money, he will definitely celebrate his next birthday in the best place in the whole entire muggle universe. And you’ll definitely be invited for some pizza.
Rey is wondering has he been forgotten by you, since your focus seems to lie elsewhere these days. He sees you exiting McGonnall’s room  and asks what’s up, wondering why have you been there in the first place. He asks if she’d join him in creating a wound healing potion. Jordan’s asked of him to have some ready for Nik after the task. Rey's actually brewing potions like crazy since as a kid he used to bake every time he was upset or stressed and nowadays he just brews potions - the precsise measures are very similar.


Seff
Siddh and Andrei have been spending much time together, since they are close friends but only see each other during summers and now they have a chance to do it more often. Siddh will suggest meeting up at Hogsmeade after the successful task. Since Andrei doesn’t seem to enjoy constant hateful comments at that table and it’s too much drama for his liking he’s been avoiding the Slytherin table, Siddh offering him company more than once.. Andrei likes to lay low and lead a very boring life, which doesn’t seem possible once the drama starts so avoidance seems like the easiest way to do so, even if Siddh manages to talk him into sitting down here and there.
Blaise has an announcement, only he’s not the first one to deliver it. Gemma asks you if he’d decided on the invitations and through this conversation she realises you haven’t been told yet. This happens before the task so Blaise doesn’t manage to give you the news himself.
Bryce seems to sense Seff’s mind is somewhere else rather than right here and right now, so he asks what’s happening. In the meantime, he’s heard some stuff about her because it seems people have started to whisper about the reasons why she left her old school. He, however, doesn’t meddle, since if someone wants to share things with him, they’ll do it voluntarily. For some reason he enjoys her company and he’s pretty sure she enjoys his, too. Even if he might be reading it all wrong.


Freya
Gemma hands out an invitation to an engagement party - of her own. With Blaise Lestrange. It seems the two families are planning a union through their children. Gemma assures her it’s all been planned and she's completely okay with it - which doesn’t surprise, since she always lacks ambition or her own will at some things.
Zion has been handed the envelope sooner than Freya, so he has found out about it already, but is still in utter shock and - honestly - horror. He doesn't believe this decision is in any way smart or beneficial for her.
Jordan is having some trouble with his sister and he's in a sort of crossroads, he's close to giving up on maintaining a good relationship with her, so he'll wonder what she'd do in his place.

Camille
Both Fletcher and Sibellius think you're a fine teacher and appreciate you as a colleague. The two of them have gotten quite close and enjoy spending their time with a friendly game of wizard chess. They'll ask you to join their made-up tournament. If you don't know how to play it, they'll happily teach you the main rules and show you how to tactically play and conquer your opponent.
Jules will visit you during the tournament old times sake.

Naz
Jordan is trying to talk reasonably with you this time. He is tired of this constant bullying of his friends and he will ask nicely that you stop. He has already spoken to Nela and Nik who promised not to provoke any further. Nela has also found all of the badges she enchanted and corrected them. Jordan doesn't really have the strength to continue this type of a toxic relationship. He's trying not to choose one or the other because he considers both important.
He thinks Naz did something to Nik and that makes him sick to the stomach. He won't ask about it because he doesn't want to know.
Siddh can't understand this need to spread animosity. He's sad that more than twenty years after the war this continues. If anyone had the right to discuss purity he would certainly be the core value of that discussion. However, even if his family kept the line pure - never did they ever speak ill of muggles.
Blaise values Naz's opinions and agrees with them fullheartedly. While he isn't prone to openly provoking, when asked he would state his viewpoint, so he understands how she feels but doesn't really understand why she bothers to show those mudbloods this much attention. They simply aren't worth it.
Rey's honestly so confused with how far all of these events have gotten. He sees no point and honestly can't even begin to phatom how did they come to this boiling point. He's thinking about avoiding the Great Hall until all of these tournament things end. Maybe he'll just go into the potions classroom and pracice making basic potions until they reach absoulte perfection. It's a habit he's had since childhood. First cakes, now potions.

Leta
Mathieu will congratulate you on your amazing first task, since you've exited first! He'll be very playful the next few days, as usual and he'll want to do all the fun things he can. He's found a way to sneak into the Hogwarts kitchen and he'll ask her to come along and see how cool it is. The elves will make them dine finely if they do come.
Acel is in a nostalgic mood, missing your home so he'll want anything that reminds him of home. He'll take some extra interest in a thing called Instagram from the muggle world. Of course, since he's got no access to "Internet" he found that in the Muggle Studies book, making it his bedtime literature. He'll be spitting facts left and right.
Bryce can sense when he's not wanted so he's backing away surreptitiously. He doesn't really enjoy lost battles, he'll still throw in a compliment or two, because, well, he means them.
James is very fond of Leta, which she doesn't seem to notice much. SO he'll try and approach her here and there and wish her good luck at the next task and offer help with practicing transfiguration. He's very good at it.

Sofia
Andrei is one of the good sons, who appreciate their mother and don't mind showing it, so any communication with him is easy. She's one of the rare people he actually deeply cares about. In the 2nd task, since he's the only student, Sibellius and Fletcher will insist that he's the team captain so he can show them what he's made of. It'll be easy to see that the two principals enjoy each other's company and banter. Once out of the cave simulation, they - as a winning team will suggest going for drinks to Hogsmeade right away.

Mary and Ricky
If Ricky asks Holly out she will definitely accept and ask Mary to help her out once the panic and excitement kicks in. She'll even ask if you'd join her and him on a double date, since she's scared she might mess the date up if she goes on her own.
She'll suggest taking Ruff, since she think that might be less weird than James coming along - to which James takes slight offence. He doesn't like being excluded or not chosen for things. So he doesn't invite Holly for his afternoon study sessions that week. In the study sessions he will be leading the Transfiguration exercises and practices while Rey will take care of teaching the Potions. Certainly others (but not Holly) may join as well.
If Ruff is asked to join in on this double date, he won't be too thrilled. He's not fond of the idea of him having to be there to hold a candle for Rick and Holly, especially since he's not keen on either of them, he purely considers them friends of a friend. He'll, however, be happy if Mary shows she's thrilled about the hopefully couple to be, just as long as he's not asked to be a part of the grand scheme of bringing them closer together.

Manon
tba...

Detentions

Naz and Nela will be asked to polish the Potions cabinet and clean the spoilt ingredients. Their wands will be taken away and they will have to do it by hand. They have to be really careful because any remains might have a strong effect when brewing a potion.
They have both gotten detention after Jordan went to Mc Gonagall and told her everything that has happened and explained he needed them to solve things in a safe environment.
So a room full of glass jars and posions was the only logical option for their detention, of course.
Nela will apologise for punching her since, she really does regret when she loses to her temper. She's actually more upset with herself for not being able to control, than she's sorry for what she's done. The genuine apology will come afterwards because of the badges, which were unnecessary. She doesn't think the apologies will be accepted well or even acknowledged, but she likes feeling she's done her part with that and that's the least she can do for Jordan's sake.

Champions after first task
Leta managed to get out first with less than 20 minutes. She will get an advatnage at the last task.
Zion followed closely after, with a pair of noise-canceling earpuffs. He used transfiguration as one of of the spells because the music was too loud. He will also get an advantage.
Nik exits last, his clothes are burnt to a crisp, so he's covering his private parts with a tuba from the room. He doesn't remeber what happened, but the room is absolutely wrecked. He, however, used exactly 0 spells. He started the fire on his own, he picked the lock and he cut the wires of the instruments or just stuffed them until there was silence. He states that he felt as if he was s beast and just did things without any control whatsoever, including breaking his fist punching a saxophone.
Jordan is convinced he was poisoned, so after a detailed report, an investigation is pending.


SNIPPETS

What were you thinking?

"I'm not used to seeing you joke, but this must be one of the rare and candid moments where you think this might be funny," Zion's speaking while Gemma is continuing with her lunch as if absolutely everything was normal.

"I was offered the proposal by the Lestange family and since both Blaise and I didn't mind, the proposal went ahead," she shrugs.

"So you're going to marry Blaise?" Zion repeats the words just so she can hear them loud and clear, "You're a teenager," he reminds her.

"This is just an engagement of families. The marriage will not proceed until we both have finished our educations and found steady positions," she assures Zion, since it seems he's worried about an unwise economical decision, "Surely, Zion, you did not expect I didn't think this through most elaborately," Gemma adds after the mashed potato melts in her mouth.

"So if my family contacted you first, you'd be engaged to me now," he still tries to paint the absurdity of the situation.

"If we'd reach an agreement beneficial to both sides, yes," she replies in complete seriousness, "Zion, marriage is a very practical decision," she seems to sense he's making a bigger deal out of this than necessary.

"I agree to an extent," he admits, "The line being not having a horrible person for your spouse," he continues.

"Blaise had never been anything but pleasant towards me, Zion," she assures him.

"Oh, then take Freya with you next time," he suggests, the first quiver of her lip spotted.

"You'd be surprised to find out he agreed to invite her to the engagement," she points out.

"He agreed," Zion scoffs, "How mighty of him to allow your friend to set her unpure feet into his pristine house."

"If you have a problem with this you can speak to my father," Gemma decides she's not going to indulge this conversation anymore, "Prepare decent reasons why he should refuse the proposal, because you lack arguements right now," she adds matter-of-factly and Zion stares at her attempt to cut a pea in half.

"Fine," he replies.

"Fine," she agrees.

Room of Needs

“I heard Gemma and Lestrange are engaged,” Nela pulls back her t-shirt and fixes the tie the muggle way. She’s never gotten the gist of dressing yourself with magic. And she doesn’t really want to develop a habit of doing so, just in case it might unconsciously happen in front of other muggles.
Maybe that’s what scares her, others seeing her things she here makes ordinary. So she’s controlling herself.

Sidh isn’t.

In one swoosh his tie is tying itself, his shirt is buttoning and his hair is not so neatly packed into a bun.

“News travels very fast around here,” he chuckles, since it’s only been a while since this was somehow made a public announcement. Well, it still hasn’t happened, so maybe - he’s guessing it won’t come to it.

“Didn’t bid Gemma as the actively hating mudbloods club,” Nela admits, fixing the rims of her socks, fretting putting on those hideous school uniform shoes. She hated those. They brought no joy into a student’s life and any modification was against the rules. And even if she might not admit it, she kind of likes rules. They bring structure and she needs that.

“She’s not,” he’s burying his head into her shoulder, hands in pockets, staring at their reflection in the mirror, “Blaise will get very good connections marrying into her family,” Sidh explains, “And she’ll get almost as many as he this way,” he adds, “She’s basically been brought up to be someone’s wife one day,” he adds and shrugs.

“That’s mean,” she’s getting insulted on the behalf of Gemma and he’s surprised.

“No, I’m not commenting on her, I mean it as blunt as possible - she has been born, bred and taught into being a arranged wife one day, just like I was,” he smirks, “I mean, husband, for me,” he adds to avoid confusion which isn’t really present there.

“That’s just downright horrible - it strips you of every right to choose,” she shakes her head in disgust.

“Not really,” he points out, “Most of us have a list of demands that should be met and the other person agrees to it - it’s purely a practical decision, really,” he explains, “You agree on the minimal or maximal number of children or you can even ask for a spouse who will allow extramarital affairs,” she’s finally done with her uniform and collects her school bag as well when he finishes talking.

“Now, that’s just sad,” she chuckles humourlessly. She can pretend to understand, but she’s more keen on doing what she wants rather than what others want, “Let me guess what you have on your list,” she adds, “You definitely have the latter,” she smirks and he’s smirking back. Not really replying.

“I’m actually a very simple one. The imperative condition is the purity of blood,” he sighs. It makes him sad that this seems to be far more important than, let’s say - well literally anything else. Good hygiene would be his own top priority, but, oh well.

“Yeah, I forgot you’re like the purest of them all,” she’s irritated, “I find it inconceivable that your family had no “unpure” blood,” she air-quotes the word.

“Oh, Priye, of course that happened,” he’s laughing and he takes her hand in his, “but then you just remove them from the family tree and cut all connections,” he presses a kiss on her hand and strokes her hand with his thumb.

“And you stay pure as long as you need to,” she scoffs and he nods, “How convenient,” she agrees.

Hogging

“You really have to stop hogging the room,” Jordan’s irritated when Sidh and Nela get out, “It’s weird if we sit here while people pass by, hoping the room would appear,” he rolls his eyes.

“The Hufflepuff kid casually walks by every 15 minutes, thinking we’d leave,” Nik adds.

“The Room of Needs is here for our needs,” Nela argues.

“No, the Room of Requirements is here for your requirements,” Nik argues back, “Don’t make it weird with needs,” he fakes disgust. Sidh’s smirking a step away from the group, when Nela puts both Gryffindor boys into a chokehold.

“I envy your relationship,” Sidh makes a comment. They’re all looking at him surprised.

“It must be your ambition that put you into Slytherin because I don’t see the sneaky part,” Jordan teases to which Sidh one-sidedly smirks.

“Oh, he’s cunning and resourceful,” Nela quotes the textbook qualities of a Slytherin and Sidh shrugs.

“I am,” he admits, “And I have no loyal bone in my body,” he adds in honesty.

“That, I don’t believe is true,” Nela assures him and the others nod along.

“Oh, no, really,” Sidh’s repeating just so there is no miscommunication here, “If I had to choose between me and someone else - it would always,” he leans in, “And I mean always,” he leans back, “be me.”

“Loyalty isn’t saving someone while destroying yourself,” Nik scoffs.

“But it requires vulnerability,” Sidh’s now walking away, “And I don’t have the luxury of that,” he waves goodbye and the trio starts walking.

“I can’t decide if I like him or not,” Jordan tilts his head.

“You don’t have to like him, he’s not really fond of you,” Nels mentions, Jordan’s brows high.

“What? He’s always really nice to me,” he explains.

“He finds you useful,” Nel smiles, and Nik’s not liking something in that smile, “That’s reason enough,” she repeats the words Sidh once spoke to her and they come out more bitter than she planned and it seems those words weren’t about Jordan as much as about her.

“You’ve actually got a thing for him, don’t you,” Nik’s in shock and Jordan’s shock comes along. Nela doesn’t do insecurities. She never did. But there seems to be a big one here. She’s snorting at that with one of her yeah, right expressions. The two boys stop in track. She actually does.

“Nah, he’s just useful,” she shrugs and fools nobody. Because, unlike Sidh,she actually cares.

The Grass is Always Greener

“Why does it always look like they’ve got interesting things going on?” Mathieu wonders once the trio passes the fountain in the garden.

“They usually do,” Rey confirms the hypothesis, glancing at some potions, with the intent of trying to combine them, while Ruff glances at what they were talking about - or rather who they were talking about.

“Yup,” he also agrees, “I think we are too passive,” he considers.

“And there is nobody to hate us, since we’re pure,” Rey mentions.

“And we are no champions,” Ruff adds.

“You’re just boring,” Mathieu bluntly states.

“We might be, yes,” Rey agrees but Ruff shakes his head.

“Nah, I’m fun,” he assures them and himself, “I just have Reynard, and James as friends so they pull me down,” Rodolphus nods to himself.

“I’m not even taking part in this conversation, please stop insulting me,” James chimes in and refocuses on the materials he’s studying.

“I’m not sure if not being listed there meant I’m fun or I’m not friend so I’ll just take my leave before you break my achy breaky heart,” Bryce smirks, his eyes glued to familiar female figure in a green uniform.

“”Want me to make your life more interesting?” Mathieu suggests and the boys are listening, “I need a yes or a no,” Mathieu repeats with his heavy accent and the boys shrug.

“Yes?” Reynard speaks first and nobody rejects the answer.

“Okay,” Mathieu is on his feet and whistles a catcall very loudly just as a group of Beauxbatons students pass by, “Disgusting! What are you?! Animals?!” Mathieu shouts and storms out while the rest are left completely and utterly in shock, a furious McGonagall looking their way along with the rest of the garden.

“Potter, Glendower, Hadwin!” McGonagall shouts, “My office,” she seems scarier than a raging werewolf, “NOW.”

League Above

“Uh, is that mine?” Sidh enters the Slytherin common room and Blaise waves an invitation for him, “So what are the terms and conditions?” the Indian boy sits down and is ready to discuss business.

“The usual,” he replies, “At least I can ditch the binder now,” he’s referring to the list of compatible wives he’s been asked to skim through.

“How come you’ve decided this?” Sidh asks, “And this early,” he adds. It’s an early engagement even if the wedding isn’t in plan as far as he’s found out.

“My goals need deep connections in the Ministry,” he explains, “And hers are deep,” he’s actually quite impressed with how far the association with her could take him. He has already gotten an invitation for a summer internship programme. He’s baffled though why Zion hadn’t used her sooner. The fool had missed out on a great opportunity. But Blaise wouldn’t. It doesn’t take a genius to see she is not into him, but once her father is in question, she’d agree to anything.

“You’re hoping the engagement would take you far enough before you break it off, aren’t you?” now Sidh understands better. This is something he would do as well if he were in any similar position.

“Not necessarily,” Blaise, however, counters, “I am fine with respecting my part of the agreement,” he assures the man, “But I don’t think she will,” he adds, “So, that might even put me in a better position,” he thinks. He’s feeling confident about this even if he couldn’t make it a surprise in the end. Basically everyone beat him to it.

“Well thought through,” Sidh admits, “Almost as if I planned it myself,” he thinks he’s given him a huge compliment and Blaise smirks back.

“Don’t compare me to you Sidh, I’m a league above.”

Last edited by Tonkolina (12/09/2020 at 22:48)

Name: Jude Collins

Face Claim: Emily Bader

Age: 17

House/Home: Ravenclaw * Hogwarts

Interests: Niklaus, Rey and Rodolphus

Story-DONE

Part 1

As I exited the office of the headmistress a few nights following the first challenge there was a sense of relief and while I had planned to see if I could find Niklaus in the library I bumped into Rey instead.

"Everything okay?" he asked as he saw me step from behind the portrait that served as the official entrance.

"Yeah," I said not willing to discuss why I'd been in to see her, even to a friend.

"Stuff with your mom?"

"Thankfully not this time," although at the mention of Adelyn I remembered her threat to send me to Ilvermornay.

"Good, I need your help with something."

"Is this the thing I owe you?"

"Not a chance," he said with a half smile, "besides I'm pretty sure you'll say yes."

I let out a showy sigh but continued to walk in step beside him as he asked for my help making some potions for Niklaus.

"Did they ever figure out what went wrong during the first challenge?" I asked as we entered the potions lab.

Seeing Niklaus so distraught and then learning he hadn't used a single spell had been a shock.

"Not yet," Rey replied as he began pulling together what we needed.

"Are we brewing something to help with that?"

"No, Jordan's asked for a healing potion."

As I worked side by side with Rey I didn't ask why Jordan wasn't brewing the potion himself and just enjoyed being near him doing something we were both good at.

Part 2

With the dawning of the second task I couldn't help but notice that Niklaus looked more nervous than he had before the first one.

"The clasp on your necklace broke," was what he said to me after a hurried hello, "during the first challenge, but I can fix it, I just...." his voice trailed off as he responded with a head nod to someone calling his name.

"It's fine," I assured him, "It didn't seem to have a much luck as I hoped it would."

"I still have this though," he said flashing the original token I'd given him which he held in his clenched fist.

"Good luck," I told him and smiled brightly before heading toward the cheering section.

***

Similar to the first challenge as spectators we were able to use binoculars to work our way through the second task. I was put into a group with Rey, Rodolphous and Aciel.

"He's part Veela," Rodolphous warned as he pulled me away from Aciel where I was enthusiastically introducing myself. Once out of his orbit I no longer felt the pull I did previously. "It may be best if we take these tunnels separately." he said.

Rey and I agreed as did Aciel. However I'd been in my own tunnel for less than 10 minutes when we were all snapped out of the simulator.

"What happened?" I asked confused.

"I'm not sure," Rodolphous said.

"Me either," echoed Rey.

The answer became clearer when we all noticed Aciel passed out.

Not having cleared the passage we weren't free to go to Hogsmeade and instead were made to help clean up.

Part 3

A few nights following the challenge Rodolphous and I sat alone in the common room working on a divination assignment. I was curled up on the sofa thumbing through my divination text and leaning down occasionally to make notes. Rodolphous was sprawled on the floor, pieces of parchment spread around him.

"This is pointless," I grumbled balling up a piece of parchment and tossing it on the floor where it tapped Rodolphous on the leg.

"At least give me a chance to try and catch it," he laughed as he picked up the paper and tossed it into the fire.

"Yeah because you have such great hand eye coordination," Rey laughed as he popped into the room hearing the tail end of the comment, "I recall you not being able to dodge a barn owl a few weeks ago," he laughed.

"Jude's owl is a menace and you both know it," Rodolphous laughed, as he rubbed his temple on the opposite side from where Val had grazed him.

"What are you guys still doing up anyway? Rey started, not bothering to sit. "Am I interrupting something?" Rey asked. I couldn't read the look on his face.

"A Divination project." I answered, with that Rey took a seat next to me on the sofa.

"And eating the Chocolate frogs Jude's dad sent her," Rodolphous said.

"I had one before you nicked the trading card off of me." I laughed.

"It was one I needed," Rodolphous said as he wadded up a ball of parchment he'd been writing on. "We're going to be here all night."

"That's because human beings are unpredictable," I said. "Divination isn't real."

"You said that 2 hours ago, it doesn't get us closer to getting this done." Rodolphous countered.

"I also said we could just make something up 2 hours ago." I countered

"Except I've managed to tell my mother way too much about this class to risk getting a failing mark, she thinks I love it."

"Doesn't that sort of prove my point though?" I asked


"Jude's right," Rey said before Rodolphous could respond, "Look what happened with Nik in the first challenge. He didn't use a single spell."

"That's one example," Rodolphous said. "Doesn't prove humans are totally unpredictable though, maybe Nik just cracked under the pressure of being the Hogwarts champion."

"Well look at when Jude kissed you." Rey offered.

"That wasn't a real kiss," I said exasperated.

"Felt pretty real to me," Rodolphous teased, "Your lips touched my forehead."

"That's not a real kiss and you both know it," I laughed, "This is a real kiss," I said before I impulsively turned to Rey took his face in my hands and planted a kiss on his lips which went from me making a point to me actually kissing him and if I wasn't mistaken he was kissing me back.

My brain is mush and I'm blanking on how to describe it BUT in my mind the kiss goes something like this, the clip is totally PG-13

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlwNlB1bzHI

"See completely unpredictable," I said catching my breath, "we can finish this over breakfast."

I didn't wait for a response from either of them before I hurried up to the girl's dormitory ignoring the chatter that started as soon as I got to the top of the staircase. There was a part of me that desperately wanted to know what they were saying though.

Did I really just kiss Rey? I thought to myself as I slid into bed. More importantly did he just kiss me back? As I drifted off to a fitful sleep I hoped I hadn't imagined that he'd enjoyed it as much as I had, and while I realized that may change things between us I figured that it could be for the better...at the very least it didn't have to be for the worst.

Round Progress: R1 done, R2 done, R3 done

Last edited by Dare (13/09/2020 at 08:24)

AS FAR AS I KNOW

ABOUT - DONE

NAME
PERSEPHONE LESTRANGE

FACE CLAIM
Zhenya Katava

AGE 17

HOUSE/HOME
Slytherin, Hogwarts

NICKNAME:
Seff (mostly only Blaise has called her this in the past)

TRAITS: virtues and flaws (at least three from both)
Charismatic, Cunning, Ruthless, Daring, Arrogant, Devious
... now to go find some flaws...

DREAM:
Becoming an Unspeakable in the Department of Mysteries

FEAR:
Disfigurement/mutilation, rodents

FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Transfiguration & Potions

LEAST FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Divination

FAMILY & OTHER RELATIONS:
Persephone is a pure-blood witch from a very powerful and prominent family with ancient bloodlines and connections. She is the younger sister of Blaise by only 10 months to the day. Often mistaken for twins due to their closeness in age, they were nearly inseparable as children. The two are very similar in both demeanor and personality, sharing secrets, planning manipulations, and covering up each other’s misconduct, if need be. Just like most Slytherin, they are extremely loyal to each other while having an obvious disdain for those that they feel are unworthy of their time and attention. Persephone is not at all discreet about her haughty attitude towards anything muggle-related. She is also very self-absorbed, but her narcissism is well managed when in the company of like-minded wizards and witches and she is genuinely liked, and protective over those in her friend circle.

She is a metamorphic witch, and as such has always had the ability to self-transfigure without additional training or potions. It caused a bit of an uproar in her family when she accepted the stone inscribed invite from Uagadou Wizarding School in favor over the Owl-missive that arrived on her 11th birthday for Hogwarts. Even at that young age, she was aware that Uagadou was prized for its curriculum in both human transfiguration and alchemy while she would have to wait, and hope, that she might be able to take those subjects in her 6th or 7th year if there was enough interest.

The one major difference between Blaise and Persephone is that she is not at all lazy. She is quite ambitious and athletic. Despite knowing and using her family advantages, she is also focused and determined to achieve her goal of one day getting a position in the Department of Mysteries as an Unspeakable. The highly elusive and exclusive position intrigues Persephone due to its secretive nature and independence of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and the Minister of Magic.

Thanks in large part to her wealthy and influential family, she rarely finds herself in any position where real consequences are of threat and is often willing to exploit her connections for her own advantage. Her privileged position made her ruthless and quite reckless. Which is exactly why she is here, at Hogwarts, finishing out her final year of Wizarding schooling… Even the wealth and power of a Lestrange is not enough to get one out of the hottest of hot water…

INTERESTS
Blaise | Bryce

PLAYLIST

Slytherin-type Stuff ~ continuing

A LITTLE WICKED
HEATHENS
SOUR CANDY
COLD BLOODED
ALPHA
HARD
THANK GOD I'M NOT YOU
I LIKE IT HEAVY
YOU'RE SO VAIN
LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO
YOU CAN'T SIT WITH US
GONNA SHOW YOU CRAZY
YOU SHOULD SEE ME IN A CROWN
THE GREATEST

THE LOOKS - DONE

DETENTION | SPECTATOR

EFF'IT

STORY - DONE

Just another day... ~ DONE

“Miss Lestrange, would you come with me please…”

I squinted looking up from my potions textbook to see the Headmistress standing in the doorway, her hands clasped in front of her and her mouth yet again in that pinched, disgruntled frown. I had been so preoccupied with the ingredients I was trying to learn that I hadn’t even realized she entered the room. Nor had I any clue why she was interrupting the class to specifically pull me out of it.

Of course, I gathered my things and slipped from the room, avoiding looking at any of the curious faces that watched my exit. What the hell was this about…

She did not speak another word as she ushered me through the hallways and to her office sternly. More silence followed as she closed us inside and only then did she speak, and only then to instruct me to have a seat. Not an invitation, not a suggestion… it was blatantly an order. I could not think of one single thing that I had done so far since I had arrived at Hogwarts that warranted me being called to the head office. Sure, I thought of some things to do… but actually doing something was another matter.

“It has come to my attention that you have broken a very serious school code violation and as such we are here to discuss your punishment.”

“Huh?” I remarked automatically before correcting myself, “I’m sorry? What did I do?”

“Perhaps there are several infractions that you are mentally attempting to pick through but the one that has you here today is that of the prohibited artifact that has been confiscated from your belongs. The only thing that you are here for at the moment is to hear what the consequences of your actions are to be.”

Immediately the hairs on the back of my neck stood up and my stomach coiled tightly. Whatever this was about, apparently I had already been judged and condemned without even being allowed to defend myself. I pressed my lips together. I had no clue about any artifact… regulated or prohibited. She continued speaking, explaining about how I would be expected to behave myself with more decorum at Hogwarts than I was likely used to at Ilvermony. Whether that was a jab at the school itself or the rumors over why I had been kicked out I could not rightly say. It should not surprise me that assumptions would be made about me and that situation, it wasn’t as if I tried to do anything to dissuade the more outrageous gossip. It didn’t bother me really. Words. I would have rolled my eyes if I wasn’t feeling so utterly pissed off right now.

Again, not for the first time I had to bite my tongue so hard. Let them all think whatever they wanted to think… about that incident. And this one apparently. It wasn’t as if my reputation couldn’t handle the bad press. It certainly appeared that it wouldn’t matter one bit what I might have to say about this newest accusation, she seemed perfectly content to detail out her talking points without any input from me.

I gritted my teeth. She never even asked me if I knew about this object, never produced said object and certainly never inquired if I was guilty. Hell, she never even explained how this supposed object became associated to me… oh wait… there…  she was talking about that bit now. Apparently, the object in question was located in my bag. Odd… considering I had carried my bag with me from class and it sat on the floor beside my chair. Clearly this other bag of mine that I was unaware of is what the object was found in and which ended with me being here, getting chastised and… punished.

50 points off the house. Whatever that means. Slytherin no longer in 1st place. Hell, I didn’t even know we were in places. And apparently I was to clean up the muck from the animals pens… without the use of magic.

Through all of the telling I sat there, stone still, quite as a mouse. No point in defense when my defense was not even considered. I was guilty before she even set eyes on me that day.

“Is there anything you would like to say for yourself?”

“Not really.” I answer immediately seeing no point in prolonging this discussion further.

“Very well, hopefully you will learn your lesson this time and there will be no further incidents.”

If the woman were super observant she would likely see and maybe even hear my teeth grinding harder together but I continued to remain mutinously silent. I refused to defend myself against someone that was oh so ready to condemn me.

“Will that be all then…? May I go?” She continued to watch me steadily but nodded her head. Immediately I rose, gathered my stuff again… my bag that apparently wasn’t my bag since my bag had been taken along with the object that had been found inside of that other ‘my bag’.

And while one of my thoughts was to just flip off the rest of the day and go sulk about false accusations, I did not do that. With my head held high I went right back to class, ignored yet again all the curious looks and settled back into my seat to get back to the lesson of the day.

It was, after all, just another day in my life.

Muck it... ~ DONE

I was not any less pissed off the next day when I arrived at the stables for my ‘punishment’. It was early, barely past dawn when I stepped into the yard just outside the stable, as I had been informed that these duties tended to be done at the most unreasonable hour.

At first, I thought maybe I was alone… everything seemed to solemn and dark but then suddenly a loud crash was heard inside the barn and a heartbeat later a gigantic hippogriff came tearing through the entrance followed immediately by a lumbering hairy giant who ended up cornering it in the corralled yard. It took only a short time for him to reign it in and began herding it back inside.

“Whew…” he hissed out before turning his gaze towards me, “spooked the beastie I did, was tryin’ move some o’ his feed an’ dropped e’ry bit o’ it. It’s ‘cause o’ the loud crash he come tearin’ outta there” I peeped past him and sure enough there was mounds of seed sprawled all across the ground inside. “You must be Persephone… Lestrange, yeah? I reckon is good yer here so early, that I wasn’ expectin’… but sure do reckon it’s best… plenty to get done before the tournament planners arrive…”

I made no comment and kept my lips smashed together sullenly but it hardly mattered. He was already wandering back into the barn and simply assumed I would follow. Again, hardly mattered. I was given no choices here, just expected to complete my sentence of this wrongful conviction.

“I be Hagrid and I take care o’ the creatures here but we ‘ave tons more due to the tourney and I’m goin’ have to take yer wand now, I get it’s not ideal… but I’ve been told it’s to be the no-mag way fer you today…”

My nostrils flared wide only for me to gag and raise a hand to stuff it above my lip. Tears stung my eyes as the heavy heady scent of animal manure and dirt assaulting my senses.

“O’ come now lil’ lass, you’ll get yourself use to it in no time at’all…” he grinned but he continued to hold out his hand. Reluctantly, I thrust my wand to the big oaf and then he immediately began giving me a run down of what was expected of me. He seemed completely oblivious to the fact that I hadn’t uttered one word… or at least I thought so. Wrongly so. When he was done with all the tasks, and there were a lot of them, he asked if I had any questions and I just shook my head, to which he looked doubtful. Not that it earned him an answer while he hesitated. Stubbornly I stood there, pitchfork in hand, a scarf wrapped around the lower half of my face that he provided to ease some of the awful smell… just waiting to get on with the chore. But Hagrid seemed to have more patience that I was willing to give and eventually I reluctantly spoke the word no.

Then I was on my own, manually mucking filth and grime out of the stables as if I were some house elf… like a muggle no less. It was humiliating… and unwarranted. And the more I dug in, flinging excrement-soiled hay into a nearby wheelbarrow, the angrier I became, vowing silently that whoever did this would pay dearly. The only problem, McGonagall hadn’t expose my accuser. No, she just took whoever’s word it was that I was the culprit and ran with it. Even the Wizengamot Charter allowed alleged criminals the right to face their accuser… .

I was still contemplating my revenge and completely zoned in on my thoughts and not the trail of people that gawked at me as I made my way through the halls of Hogwarts several hours later. That is until my name was called out quite firmly. Frowning I turned my head and drew to a stop briefly as I considered the horrified expression on Bryce’s face a few steps away. A second ticked by… then another… several more before I understood what had him looking so perplexed.

“What happened to you?” He asked after stepping closer only to step back  slightly upon encountering the offensive aroma surrounding me. I hadn’t bothered to magic the filth away after Hagrid returned my wand to me. No… the smells… and the caked-on mud and muck… the aches and pains... it validated my anger. I bore them all as badges. But I kept it inside, giving Bryce a shrug and a very clipped response that I had been working. He looked skeptical and really… concerned maybe.

Whatever the look was, it did not fit with my current mood. But I didn’t bite his head off as I might have done despite how embedded the animosity and belligerent mood still spiraled inside. Instead, I just hinted at the need for a bath and he all too willingly stepped out of the way to let me and my stench continue on the path I was on.

Running into Naz in the Slytherin common room was less hostile but only marginally better. I was solemn and bitter… snapping about my rotten day and how I was set up for the first time out loud.

Naz was a friend. Pure and simple. It hadn’t taken me years to know that I liked her and trusted her. Her upfront in your face honesty and that devil-may-care attitude totally endeared her in my opinion and I did not at all hesitate to share with her some ideas on what I could possibly do to try and figure out how I ended up in this position… the accused. It was happening all over again and well, I hadn’t been willing to do anything about it last time, but this time… no, I was someone else’s scapegoat without the choice being given to me. I pressed my lips together tighter.

I knew the Legilimency spell through family chatter… it had been taught and used by many a Lestrange… but not always with the best intentions. But my intentions were pure… justified.

The discussion didn’t last long though, with Naz carefully pointing out the loophole in my idea… I couldn’t very well target somoene’s memory without knowing who to target. Of course, there was always McGonagall hereself. She knew who told her I had that prohibited item… to which Naz quickly pointed out that I must be looking to get expelled if I was thinking of using the spell against the Headmistress. We also talked about the fact that Naz had been in detention that day as well... making me frown hard. She didn’t seem to make any assumption over HOW she ended up in detention… apparently, she and Nela were called to task over their encounters against each other. I secretly wondered how the head witch found out about it. Perhaps she was clairvoyant. Though, if that were true she would have known she was sentencing an innocent person when she punished me.

Either way, I was no closer to figuring out what to do after our talk… and simply decided that I simply needed a break. From everything. From my rage, my frustration… the suggestion of a party was quick… felt natural.

It was exactly what I needed to let off some steam.

Just Eff'it... ~ DONE

It was early the next day and I was in full party planning mode. It had taken me close to an hour to shower off my days activities the previous evening and I slept hard that night. The pains continued to haunt me that next day but again I endured. They were a reminder that someone here at Hogwarts was against me… or using me. I refused to magic them away. So I would wince occasionally, moving around carefully as I bent a house-elf’s ear over decorations or food… and alcohol. But no… I didn’t trust them to get it right so Naz and I personally saw to purchasing and concocting the brews we decided on ourselves.

Oddly enough, I was alone when Gemma cornered me in the hall, a tiny stockpile of ingredients laden in my arms. And what she said… actually stopping me to inquire about some invitations. I frowned… wondering if Naz had done invitations for our team rah-rah mood-improving party… it made me almost chuckle to think she might have. But no… that was not at all what Gemma was talking about.

“For the engagement announcement…” she added to my confusion and seemed to realize quickly that I knew nothing about whatever she was talking about… to which she clarified. And I did laugh. One of my first in the last couple days. Genuine amusement rocked through me.

“Oh… well um… congrats!”

She seemed to hesitantly accept my words, they could have been condolences for all she knew. Either way, the news of Blaise’s impending nuptials definitely lightened my mood. Looks like I was not the only one that was being tortured by fate.



Blaise did not seem to find my amusement as endearing later that night. Admittedly, I had a few drinks by the time I encountered him and my harsh laughter over the fact that he was not even out of school yet and already being ushered down the aisle. The who was irrelevant really. It didn’t much matter to me, I understood that these things were usually more formal and based in strategy over emotions. It was how I had been raised and I saw absolutely nothing wrong with it.

Of course, that could also be because I pretended to have never loved anyone enough to object to an arranged marriage. Marriage wasn’t for love… even if it existed… no one cared about that. My parents did not seem to be any sort of endearing love match, but they were good partners and they seemed to be friends. It was enough to ask for, it was what I had been raised to expect. Falling in love was simply the most stupid thing anyone could do… because it did not matter in the end. Love or not, marriage for me would be to whomever brought the best advantage. Pure and simple. But… at 17? I laughed at Blaise again, relieved it had been him that the family put on the chopping block so soon.

But my merriment was laced with bouts of grumpiness over the detention I suffered as a result of someone else’s manipulation. To be honest, if I weren’t the scapegoat, I might have been impressed with the culprit’s scheme. Whether they were trying to simply avoid being caught themselves or had genuinely targeted me for a personal reason were all questions that remained unsettled. I simply needed to find out who… why… and how I would repay them for their consideration.

And so, I drank… and danced a little… and drank some more. Celebrating my narrow escape of the marriage mart and drowning the savageness of my vengeful spirit.

At one of those low points Naz spilled over to where Blaise and I were talking about how I got set up. Later, Blaise would remind me that I had been babbling and bitching about my situation when her laughter and her obvious intoxication interrupted our little conversation. Not that I realized it in the least, I swayed where I stood softly, barely… and squinting at her silently as she shifted confusingly in front of my eyes… her words barely discernible in my equally befuddled state.

Naz seemed to get more animated with more drinks, I on the other hand turned more solemn, more thoughtful… more internal. At some point I slipped out of the room… air… I needed air I mumbled to myself. I had no conscious knowledge of where I was headed… but when I got there I would know right? I just needed some air, some alone time. A riot of feelings swirling away inside of me and no one needed to be the recipient of them should I unleash unintentionally.

At some point I came to a tiny balcony off the hallway, slipping out onto it and taking in a deep breath. My heart was pounding, an ache I hadn’t felt in weeks and I sighed heavily. How easily it had been to just get on about my life… or so I thought. But it wasn’t. Not really. I blocked the emotions… stifled them deep inside. And with the alcohol and the erratic emotions, those old feelings surged up inside me as I stared out across the lake. I could still hear the music coming from the common hall a short distance away but the muffled sounds were even denser with the memories coming upon me.

“I miss you” I murmured softly aloud, a single tear escaping to trickle down my cheek. I still had no regrets… but, that didn’t mean that I didn’t care. In fact, it was just the opposite. As much as I tried to deny it, I cared too much.

Off Limits... ~ DONE

The crowd for the second round of the tournament was maybe even thicker than it seemed the first time and I was not any nearer to feeling excited about it all. It didn’t help matters that my thoughts were preoccupied with other things. Ever since the party I was having a harder time smothering those stray emotions. It didn’t help that I was also obsessed with trying to figure out how to identify who set me up. But I was holding it all close to my chest, refusing to even disclose everything to Blaise. Of course, he barely noticed my withdrawn behavior, maybe due to the tons of attention he was getting because of his upcoming nuptials. So when we spoke, I more so steered the conversation towards his future bride or what plans they had for the ceremony, all of which would make my brother roll his eyes and rush to escape my taunting.

But we were standing together at the tournament grounds, Naz with us at first… until the groups were sorted and we ended up getting separated from Naz. Blaise and I teamed up with Bryce and his fiancé Gemma. I supposed, in the grand scheme of things, my grouping could have been worse.

It was literally my first time really remarking them being around each other. For the most part they seemed amicable but maybe a bit uptight towards each other. Gemma wasn’t much of a talker in the normal sense of the word, but she did contribute to the overall experience.

Bryce seemed excited but also curiously hesitant. Perhaps because of everything that was being tossed around in my head or maybe I was just that oblivious, but I totally did not pick up on the lukewarm greeting between the two guys or the confusion that settled on Blaise’s face at my friendly, albeit distracted, greeting towards Bryce.

It was in that moment though that I decided that maybe this stupid tournament was just the thing I needed to ignore everything else in my world at that moment. At least for a little while, I could have a reprieve. So, I forced a smile, smiling towards Bryce and murmured something along the lines of “Shall we…?” before I stepped ahead of the entire group and moved towards our chamber. In my position, I had absolutely no idea of the incredulous look my brother sent my way.

*************

“What the hell are you about Seff?” Blaise hissed after gripping me by the elbow and ushering me away from the other two for a little ‘privacy’. We had been in the simulation for a full day already and managed to get through 2 of the 4 chambers successfully… each collected piece of the puzzle stashed inside of Gemma’s catch-all bag. I couldn’t even guess what had caused him to become so confrontational but I gasped then gritted my teeth as I tried to slyly twist and break free of the vice like grip. He was clearly more determined and apparently prepared for my effort. We were out of vocal range and the other two seemingly conversed about the next chamber we were set to enter.

“What is wrong with you?!” I demanded with a glare. He was behaving so bizarre in the last day and especially within the last hour… with his dismissive attitude and his more than strange looks.

“What game are you at? Because there must be one… why else would you be fawning all over ‘him’ like some dimwitted infatuated spawn?”

Utterly confused I glanced back towards the other two then to Blaise, completely at a loss to understand what this was all about.

“Bryce?” I stated the obvious earning me a scoff from my brother. I almost laughed. “What is your issue with him? He has been more than helpful… he seems exceptionally bright… seriously, you can’t be annoyed about every guy that might take an interest in m…”

“I can when he is that sort..” he sneered softly “it’s one thing to work with him to get this done, it’s a whole other thing when my sister sits around flaunting herself for his attention”

I completely misread the situation and scoffed again. “I am not flaunting myself…” was my knee-jerk response, but then the rest of his words seemed to take shape and the implications hit me, hard. My eyes rounded and my gaze shifted while the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. What the hell was he saying? But I got the sneaky suspicion that I already knew… but how could that be…? Blaise was going on…

“…he is beneath us… why are you catering to him… flirting with him? What sort of mischief are you up to… do tell so I can be in on it because I am completely at a loss for whatever this damn game is…”

“He’s a Slughorn…” I announced as if that should make all the difference in the world, but Blaise just looked at me as if I had grown a second head like some hydra.

“Yes… and?”

“They’re Sacred 28…”

“Were…” Blaise corrected… “until him…” and there was no doubt who ‘him’ was or the sneer with which it was pronounced.

My stomach continued to coil as if a constrictor was buried in there knotting up. This could not be happening… a memory flashed in my head and savagely I pushed it back, keeping my head and focus on the here and now. On the revelation that Blaise had just dumped on me. I mean, the honest truth was that nothing had really happened. But, I had chatted and spent a little time around Bryce since coming to Hogwarts but it wasn’t as if we had started anything life-altering. A little flirting here and there. I liked him well enough, all things being said… he was everything I had just told Blaise moments before, plus witty and devilishly handsome. But we barely knew each other, and it wasn’t as if I had been tripping over my feet to be around him every moment of every day or anything. It wasn’t as big as deal as… no… I stopped myself and shook my head firmly. It wasn’t a big deal. Period. Nothing had happened. I hadn’t even kissed the guy yet.

“Sooo… you didn’t know…” he released a pent-up breath then seemed to chuckle lightly as he shook his head. “You had me worried there for a sec Seff…”

I nodded my head, plastering an expected gaze upon my face… wrinkling my nose offensively, “of course I didn’t know…”

“bloody hell, you can’t even begin to imagine what was going through my head…  you and a half-blood, Merlin’s pants!“ he added as he stepped closer and draped an arm across my shoulders and tugged me in, obvious relief flooding him fully all while every nerve in my body continued to pulse with nervous energy.

Seconds later, Blaise walked us back over too the rest of our party, Gemma and Bryce both turning in our direction as we did. It was only in that moment that I realized that Bryce watched Blaise discreetly. It wasn’t really that he acting intimidated or anything, it was just… I struggled to hold in a sigh. This is why Bryce had given me such strange looks each time we were around each other… each time I flirted with him. He knew my brother, probably knew our family history… probably fully understood that someone like him would never be accepted… or considered worthy in any way.

“Sooo… we were talking, and we think that we should split up to finish the last two tasks. We’ve already lost a day and a half, and maybe if we could divide and conquer we might be able to finish everything today… versus spending another night in here…” Bryce announced when we got within hearing distance.

Blaise hesitated, and I was not fully sure if he did it on principle alone or if he really wasn’t sure about the idea, but then shrugged. “I guess if you two think you can handle one on your own, me and Seff won’t have a problem.”

“Actually…” Gemma’s soft cultured voice broke in while I took in the surprised look that crossed Bryce’s face before he hid it “… I thought, maybe, if it’s okay, that you and I could work one of the simulations together… to see how well we work as a team, together… alone.”

Again, my pulse raced but I kept silent and my face a mask, neither approving nor rejecting the idea as I waited. Once again Blaise hesitated while Bryce seemed to move with some impatience until finally my brother shrugged his shoulders again locking eyes with me.

“Think you’ll be alright on your own?” I wouldn’t be on my own though… of course Blaise wouldn’t see it that way. Bryce’s polluted blood made him insignificant.

“Yeah, of course…”

“Alright then, yeah sure… whatever then…” he commented back to Gemma who offered a hesitant, very courteous smile before the two of them took off together headed for one of the final two rooms leaving Bryce and myself alone.

“Ready to do this?” Bryce asked excitedly, his energy revved up over the adventure that he was about to have. He had reacted almost identically for each simulation thus far but oddly his eyes seemed to light up a bit more for this one. Or so I imagined.

The trouble was… there was something brewing inside me… something dark and twisted… sadistically rebellious as my gaze brushed over Bryce. When he had been a pure-blood, or rather when I thought he was… it was all fun and games, petty pretty words with a trifling amount of interest or follow through. In the space of a heartbeat, things had changed. He had changed. In my mind. And as I followed him into the path, the lighting shifted, growing dimmer while still being bright enough to see and the fresh, crisp smell of evergreens, maples and holly filled my nostrils I was reminded of a saying I heard once, a little over a year ago… before I became my most corrupted self. My eyes lingered on the guy ahead of me and I shivered, maybe because of the cold that seeped in pretty quickly... but more likely from the way the words teased me… Forbidden fruits create the most jams…


*********
“I can’t believe that rotten bugger stole my pack…” Bryce grumbled as we continued to push through the maze of foilage. He still held his wand, but that was it, and the clothes on his back. Of course, he could magic himself some clothes if it came to that and we were forced to make camp. But whatever other items he had thought to bring along was fully and truly lost. We never saw the culprit approach but based on the tracks that we found after using the Appare Vestigium spell, we were fairly sure it had been a demiguise. Unfortunately, with its rumored precognitive abilities… we also never laid sight on the elusive and sneaky beast at all. The one good thing about the whole incident… is that the spell also helped us narrow down the location of the puzzle piece, our attention drawn to the magical beacon almost immediately after we gave up on attempting to retrieve Bryce’s stuff.

"There... you see it?" Bryce erupted as his finger stretched out beside me, trying to direct my attention. I blinked and frowned, turning in the direction he indicated but saw nothing except a sheen of glowing light the blanketed the surface directly ahead.

Suddenly, he stepped closer, right up behind me and bent slightly so that his face was resting against my shoulder and he used his hand to gently shift my gaze while pointing towards a ridge in the middle of the pond, beautiful oversized lotus’ floated serenely between where we stood and the grassy looking knoll. Immediately, the tension returned. During the course of our hunt I had forgotten, briefly, about his newfound status… forgotten what he actually was. Forgotten what it meant and how it made me feel. I nod, barely registering what he was pointing too before I turned to glance at him. Our eyes met as he pulled back slightly, a grin spread across his face. Mine dipped lower, trailed across his lips before locking gazes with him once more. Maybe he sensed something different about me, or maybe he felt something different himself, but seconds ticked away with nothing but the sound of water lapping softly against the shore at our feet.

“Bryce…” why did I suddenly sound breathless? “I wan…”

Abruptly a loud whooping shriek erupted making us both jump back and look around rapidly, each drawing our wands defensively.

“What the bloody hell is that?” He hissed, each of us turning slightly trying to spot whatever was out there. Another loud, blood curdling scream ripped through our peaceful looking surroundings. Then we saw it, rising up from the shallow edge of the pond several meters away… eyes narrowed, beady… dangerous looking. It bared its teeth as it moved, slowly wading several steps as if it were stalking us.

“A Kappa…” I choked out and immediately I tried to remember the stupid lessons about this blood-thirsty creature. “A… a carrot I think…” I whispered loudly while Bryce seemed to step closer, brushing up against my side and slightly ahead of me.

“What about a carrot?” He rebuked, hovering more in front of me… as if he were getting between me and the creature. I moved and stepped up beside him, giving him a quick glare before looking back to the beast still lurking.

“He eats carrots I think… or… or cucumbers? I don’t remember! Or… wait… we need to write our names on it… I… I think” I was rambling, trying to remember futilely.

“Well do you have a bloody carrot or cucumber?”

“Accio carrot” I spit out and magically a wad of root-spiked veggies appeared in the palm of my hand. The animal ahead seemed to narrow its gaze even more, at least it did in my imaging… perhaps it was getting excited about the prospect of a little treat.

Quickly, before it thought to attack, I scribbled a name into the surface and waved it tauntingly at the creature. I wasn’t even sure if it had to eat the carrot or just hold it or what. I should have paid more attention about the damn creature. I tossed the food, watching it tumble onto the moist swampy shore but the kappa didn’t not make one effort to approach the offering. It’s teeth bared and a low snarl hissed out of its mouth.

“I… I don’t think that was it…” I blurt out before suddenly it charged, slicing through the water like only an amphibian could. I squealed and jumped backwards, while Bryce shouted…

“Merlin’s Beard!” and turned to push me back, but there was no way we would outrun it, the foilage was too dense even here at the edge of the water… or more so because of the water… and it was swampy wet, our feet sinking into the mud as we tried to rush away. I could hear its yells getting louder, closer and my heart was beating frantically. I turned back just in time to spot it lunging for Bryce.

“Arresto Momentum!”

“AVIS!”

We shouted simultaneously, the creature seeming to shifted into a slower motion just as a loud pop exploded and a string of birds jetted out the tip of my wand and soared rapid fire at the determined beastie making it squeal as it flailed its arms awkwardly causing it to then stumble and fell backwards. I only yelled the first thing that came to mind, simply trying to buy us a few more seconds to hopefully get away. I continued immediately trying to push through the hedges surrounding us, barely giving a second thought to the loud whimper that hissed out of it as the water crowing its head poured out onto the ground and it seemed to collapse.

“That’s it... Incarcerous!” Bryce shouted at the exact moment he stopped trying to flee. He moved to the creature as I cried out at his foolishness but then I noticed that it was bound tightly, squirming helplessly on the ground. “The water that was there… is its strength… we just have to keep it from refilling the top bit…” which I remembered the moment he said it and pointed to the creatures bowl shaped dome, making me shake my head.

I panted harshly, glancing to him as he bent forward, his hands resting on both his thighs while he did the same. Then we both burst into stupid laughter, the apprehension, fear and ridiculousness of the creature looking so tiny and helpless now after the terror it had just caused.

“Let’s get the bloody piece before we find out if this little monster has any friends or family lurking around here anywhere…”

I nod my head gazing across the pond again, spotting the puzzle piece now and waved my wand in its direction… “Wingardium Leviosa… “ making it shift and sail, under the guidance of my wand right onto the shore where we stood.

Needless to say, the minute we held the piece we high-tailed our way out of there. And I was very conscious of the fact that I had never said what it was that I started to say in those seconds before all hell broke loose in our part of the simulation.

R1-DONE | R2-DONE | R3 - DONE

Last edited by BambiFoxx (14/09/2020 at 07:56)

Freya Ohlson, 17, Durmstrang
FC: Olivia Holt

Interests: Gemma, Jordan & Zion

Progress: R1 DONE, R2 DONE, R3 DONE

❋ Outfits - Done

Spectator // Hogsmeade

❋ Story - Done

Freya reached for Jordan’s and Gemma’s hand as the first door opening revealing that it was Leta who finished the task first… she felt a twinge of disappointment as she had been hoping for Zion.

“Oh, bummer.” She muttered under her breath and pouted slightly. It wasn’t anything personal against the Beauxbatons champion.

“I’m sure that Zion will come next,” Gemma reassured her sounding calm as ever.
“And I tell you that it will be Niklaus.” Jordan grinned and slightly squeezed Freya’s hand.

It took a few minutes before the door opened again and this time revealing Zion and to her relief, he looked absolutely fine.

Freya squealed happily and let go of Jordan’s hand to throw her arms around Gemma pulling her into a hug, “He did it!”

“I told you that he would.” Gemma pointed out and patted slightly on Freya’s back.

Freya was still smiling as she let go of her friend… she was happy that Zion had made it out of the task safely but it did worry her a bit that Niklaus hadn’t shown up yet. She turned back to Jordan and placed an arm around his shoulder.

“I’m sure Niklaus will be fine.” The blonde told him.

“I know that he will… I just don’t like waiting.” Jordan replied and let out a sigh.

Finally, minutes later the door opened for the last time and Freya was ready to clap and to cheer when she got the first glimpse on Niklaus… his clothes were burnt to a crisp and he was using a tuba to cover himself.

“Oh my god.” The blonde gasped out loudly, “What happened to him?”

“I don’t know but I’m going to find out.” Jordan’s lips were pressed together to a thin line, “I will talk with you later, Freya.” He clasped her shoulder briefly before hurrying down to the arena.

“That doesn’t look good.” Gemma agreed.

“Come, we are going to talk with Zion… maybe he knows what is going on.” Freya grabbed Gemma’s hand pulling her out of her seat ignoring the protests coming from her friend.

It took them longer to get down into the arena than Freya would have prepared but she was too stubborn to turn around… too worried about what she had seen only moments ago. She refused to believe that it was normal how Nik had looked like compared to the other two champions.

“Zion!” Freya called once she and Gemma finally reached the arena. She stopped in front of him looking at him from head to toe.

“I’m fine Freya.” He said and smiled slightly, “The same can’t be said about him though.” His expression changed into a frown as he looked over at Nik who talking to Jordan and Gemma.

“Do you have any idea what happened?” Freya asked and pressed her lips together, “We were allowed to try the task ourselves too and I know that you can’t compare since pressure and all that stuff… but something is off. Just look at you and Leta… you managed without any problems.”

“Almost no problems. I had to use a transfiguration spell because I had enough of this stupid music.” Zion pointed out, “About Niklaus… I don’t know what went wrong with him. He seemed to be fine before the task and we spoke a bit. There was this girl though…”

“What girl?” Gemma asked.

“No idea… I haven’t seen her before but she was from Hufflepuff and brought some chocolate for us… something about being a gift. I didn’t really listen to her.” Zion explained, “I remember though that she kept pointing out that one piece was for Niklaus. Apparently it is his favourite one.”

“That is strange.” Gemma agreed with him and nodded.

“Maybe some sabotaged him.” Freya pointed out, “I mean just think about what has been happening since Nik became the champion for Hogwarts… Jordan’s sister punched him, there had been plenty of people disagreeing with the choice and now that.”

“Even if that was true, we don’t have any proof.” Gemma said, “And we can’t go around and accuse everybody who has complained or has a problem with Niklaus.”

“She is right, Freya. I know that you like Niklaus and that you want to help him out but at the moment there is nothing we can do.” Zion smiling apologizingly and placed a hand on Freya’s shoulder.

The blonde wanted to disagree with her friends… tell them that they were wrong and that they couldn’t just let this slide. But she knew that they were right as much as she hated this fact… the chocolate alone was no proof since there could always be another explanation for what happened to Nik.

“Okay…” Freya let out a frustrated sigh, “I won’t be doing anything for now.”

❋❋❋❋❋❋

"What is that?" Freya's eyebrows were knitted together as Gemma handed her an envelope with her name written on it, "I know it isn't your birthday, so what is the occasion?"

"You could just open it," Gemma replied.

"Engagement party of Blaise Lestrange and Jordan Gemma Dunwich..." Freya started to read her eyes growing bigger with each word, "This is a joke, right? Please, tell me that you are joking, Gemma!" She was almost screaming at this point.

"It isn't." her friend said calmly and Freya felt like shaking her.

"You can't be serious." the blonde shook with her head before finding Zion across the common room... from his look she realised that he already knew what was going on. "You are 18, Gemma! You are still in school and you have plans... you can't be throwing them away just to get married."

"I'm not throwing away anything." Gemma pointed out, "Blaise and I won't be getting married until we are both done with our education."

"How did this even happen?" Freya asked still in shock and denial... she couldn't remember who Blaise was from the few moments she had been at the Slytherin table but she already disliked him.

"It has been arranged between our parents," Gemma explained.

"Arranged?" the blonde laughed hysterically, "This is the 21st century... you are allowed to make your own decisions, Gemma. You don't need to do what your parents want." she threw up her hands in frustration.

"Maybe this is what I want." the dark-haired girl said and crossed her arms, "I'm fine with the arrangements that had been made. It is a good match for both families and like I said Blaise and I won't get married right now."

"I don't believe you." Freya shook her head again, "This is ridiculous and you know it!"

"Why? Because you don't agree with it?" Gemma asked and arched up one of her eyebrows.

"Yes... no." Freya took a deep breath, "Because I care about you and I don't want you to be forced into something you don't want... you said that you agree with it but I refuse to believe it." she licked over her lips.

"And I tell you that I'm fine with it." Gemma exclaimed loudly, "It is a good decision and I see absolutely no reason why I shouldn't agree with it."

"But you don't know Blaise." Freya huffed out... she didn't understand Gemma's position and honestly, she didn't want to understand it.

"He has been nothing but pleasant to me since we have arrived at Hogwarts."

"So, he is the reason why you are sitting at the Slytherin table all the time?" Freya asked and shook her head.

"Yes, he is and if you would sit with us for once, you would notice what kind of person he is," Gemma replied.

Freya bit her lower lip swallowing down the words about how she can spare herself this experience and that she had absolutely no interest in spending any minute in his company. Instead, she let out a soft sigh, "There is no stopping you." she smiled sadly at Gemma blinking a few times.

"No, there isn't." Gemma agreed, "Even if don't agree with my decision, I still hope that you will come to the party." she pointed at the envelope in Freya's hand.

"I can't promise you anything, okay?" the blonde whispered.

She couldn't tell if Gemma was fine with her answer or not because she simply nodded before leaving the common room.

"How long have you known?" Freya asked as she walked over to Zion, "And why didn't you tell me?"

"Two days ago and because it wasn't up to me to tell you, Freya," he said softly. "I don't understand it myself... Gemma might agree with the decision but I don't see how it can be smart or beneficial for her."

"It isn't." Freya crossed her arms, "She barely knows this Blaise guy and she might claim that he is nice to her but I don't know if I want to believe it." she let out a sigh, "Since when are arranged marriages a thing between wizard families and why am I only hearing about it now?"

"I wouldn't call it the norm. Some family simply prefer to form connections that they can benefit from." Zion shrugged, "When I have spoken with Gemma about it, I pointed out that she could have also been engaged to me if my family had made an offer."

"You are kidding me?" Freya asked and narrowed her eyes together. "Because and don't get me wrong now... you and Gemma are good friends but the thought of you two marrying... I don't know about that."

"I don't want to marry her, Freya." Zion shook his head, "I tried to make her realise how absurd the whole situation was... that it could have been anyone she ended up being engaged to."

"Oh, that makes sense... I guess." she shrugged. "This is a mess, isn't it?" the blonde leaned her head back, "Will you go?" her voice was almost a whisper.

"Yes, and I know that you should go as well." Zion replied, "We are still her friends and even if we don't agree with the decision, I'm sure that Gemma would love to have us at her side."

"Mhm, you are right, I guess." Freya pursed her lips together, "What I can't stop thinking about though... why didn't Gemma come to us when she heard about the proposal? Why had she been keeping it to herself all those weeks?"

"Maybe because she knew that we wouldn't agree with her decision though your guess is as good as mine." he shrugged.

"Well, she wasn't wrong about that."

❋❋❋❋❋❋

"What is wrong, Jordan?" Freya asked and let out a soft sigh as she looked at him... it was obvious that there was something on his mind and he looked like he had a rough day... if not weeks.

It was in the middle of the week and usually, she should be sitting in front of her homework but when Jordan had asked her to come with him to his favourite spot she hadn't hesitated one second.

"It is my sister." he started, "As I already told you we don't have the best of relationships but ever since Nik was chosen as the champion I feel like it has gotten worse." he dragged a hand through his hair, "And I just don't know how to deal with that."

"Well, what exactly is the problem between you and Naz?" the blonde tilted her head to the side and looked at him.

"Natalie... to me she has always been Natalie." Jordan said, "I think it all started back during our first year. You should know that my family has quite the history with the house Slytherin and I was the first one who had been sorted somewhere else and it felt like my life completely changed at that moment."

"I guess that your family didn't take it too well," Freya asked and pressed her lips together.

She felt lucky that her situation with her family was a lot easier... her parents might not understand everything magic-related but they had always been trying.

"As you can imagine it caused quite the ruckus and things didn't get better after I befriended Nela and Nik. But I never cared about their families or where they came from." Jordan told her, "And Natalie is constantly clashing with them the past weeks... first she punched Nik because the Goblet of fire had chosen him and not her and during the first task she cast a spell on Nela."

"She did what? I had no idea about that Jordan." the blonde gasped out in surprise. "Did you try and speak with her?"

"I did but Natalie doesn't want to listen to me... or it seems that she doesn't want to." he let out a sigh, "I made Nela apologise because she slapped my sister too and she changed all the badges. But I don't know if it will help. I'm not asking Natalie to suddenly become best friends with Nik and Nela but it can't go on like this."

"Look, I will be honest with you. I don't know what is going on in your sister's mind or why she is acting like this but I agree with you... you can't go on like this. To me, it sounds like you are both suffering under the current circumstances and that isn't healthy for you." Freya explained, "I would suggest that you try and speak with Natalie again... try to get her to listen and to understand how hard is it been for you." she reached for Jordan's hand and squeezed it slightly, "If you don't want to talk with Natalie alone or just need some moral back-up, you know where to find me." she flashed him a smile.

"I- thank you, Freya." Jordan's lips were curled into a small smile.

"Anytime."

"How have you been? I heard about your friend Gemma and Blaise... is it true? Are they really engaged?" Jordan asked and looked at her.

"They are." the blonde let out a soft sigh, "Gemma and I had a bit of disagreement after she told me since I didn't take it well... but how I was supposed to react? Should I have squealed out in joy and started planning her wedding immediately?" Freya asked and rolled her eyes. "Gemma claims that she is fine with the decision... but I just don't know."

"Do you think that she is lying to you?"

"Honestly, I don't know what to think. Gemma isn't the kind of person who openly shows what she feels and sometimes it doesn't seem like she cares but she does. I just wish that she would care more about herself and how this arranged engagement might affect her future." Freya took a deep breath.

"Have you tried telling her that?" Jordan asked.

"I did but she kept claiming that she was fine with the decision... maybe she is and I'm just overreacting." the blonde shrugged, "Call me naive but the thought of being engaged to a person I haven't met before is just weird. Zion told me that there are still a few families who arrange marriages to secure their lines... and you have no idea how lucky I am that my family isn't like this." she shuddered at the thought of being married off to a complete stranger.

"I agree with that." Jordan chuckled, "I wouldn't like to be in this position either... what will you do though? You and Gemma are still friends, right?"

"Of course, we are." Freya was quick to reply, "She invited me to their engagement party and I might not agree with the whole engagement but after thinking about it, I have decided that I will go."

"Good... I'm sure that Gemma will be happy to see you there." Jordan smiled before his expression got serious, "A little warning though. Blaise is one of Natalie's friends and as far as I know, he is set in his beliefs about muggle-borns."

"Perfect, just what I needed." Freya let out a sigh and dropped her head on his shoulder.

In her opinion, that was one reason more to keep convincing Gemma that breaking off the engagement would be the best decision... now she only needed to figure out a plan.

❋❋❋❋❋❋

The 2nd task of the Triwizard Tournament quickly proved to be something different because the Champions had to work together to get it done which hopefully would work out. As Freya walked towards the binoculars she had been assigned to her heart dropped... she didn't know any of the people waiting for her. Well, she had seen Prof. Camille Beauchene a few times around Hogwarts and knowing that she would be doing this task with a teacher slightly calmed her nerves. But Freya had no idea who the man next to Prof. Beauchene was and the same could be said about the boy.

"Hey, I'm Freya." she introduced herself with a small wave.

"I'm Tuesday." the boy said with a charming smile.

The blonde blinked a few times not quite sure if he was telling the truth or simple kidding with her... judging by his expression she guessed that it was the first.

"I'm sure you know who I am." Prof. Beauchene replied, "But please call me Camille since it will be easier for the upcoming task. Oh, and that is Jules." she smiled and pointed at the brown-haired man next to her.

Freya didn't miss the look they shared nor the fact that they were holding hands and wearing matching wedding bands.

"It is nice to meet you," Jules said smiling as well. "Shall we?" he asked and pointed at the binoculars.

"Let's go." Tuesday sounded enthusiastic and took a step forward.

Freya swallowed before she followed him... rationally she knew that nothing could happen to them. There might be pain sensors involved this time but they had been reassured that nothing could happen to them. But honestly, the blonde would feel more comfortable doing the task with people she knew and could trust.

"Okay, how do we want to do this?" Freya asked licking over her lips. The first passage was right in front of them and honestly, it didn't look very inviting.

"I suggest that we stick together. We don't know what is waiting for us and I would rather not take any risk." Camille replied and pulled out her wand.

"Sounds like a plan for me." Tuesday agreed and nodded, "What exactly are we looking for?"

"From what I understand, there are four puzzle pieces and we can find one at the end of each passage," Jules replied.

Freya immediately noticed how freaking dark the first passage was and if it hadn't been for their wands lightening up the place she would have already stumbled.

"Okay, here is the rowboat which should get us across the lake in no time," Camille explained.

"That sounds simple." Tuesday grinned and got into the boat.

"Yeah, almost too simple..." Freya murmured under her breath... the peaceful moment only lasted for a few moments when all of a sudden more and more lights appeared in the dark cave.

"That doesn't look good." Jules pointed out and pressed his lips together.

"Get down!" Camille shouted as the first glowing bugs started attacking the boat.

Freya reached for her wand trying to cast a spell when something big knocked over the boat... she gasped out in surprise but managed to keep her head over water. The blonde looked around hoping to find the others but she couldn't spot any of them.

"This isn't good." she murmured to herself as she swam as quickly as possible towards the shore... now and then she could see a glowing bug but she didn't want to find out what else might be waiting for them.

"Freya, over here," Tuesday called. He held out his hand once she was close enough and he helped her get out of the water, "Have you seen Camille and Jules?"

"No, but they have to be somewhere." Freya shook with her head. Most parts of the caves were in full light now and she didn't like what she had seen, "Is that an erumpent?" she asked and pointed at the large creature which was only a few metres away from them.

"Yes, and we should get out of here." Tuesday's lips were pressed together in a thin line as he grabbed her hand, "The exit is over there and we can make it if we don't make any sudden movements, okay?"

The blonde nodded and made sure to stay close at his side as they slowly made their way towards the exit... it went smooth almost too smooth and they had almost made it when all of a sudden one of the bugs attacked Freya.

Without thinking she cast a spell at it but missed instead, hitting the erumpent which didn't like too pleased about the whole experience.

"Okay, now we should run." Tuesday grabbed her hand again and Freya had a hard time keeping up with his pace... she tried to ignore the loud footsteps from the erumpent coming closer and closer. But they managed to get out of the cave just in time.

Freya was panting hard as she was sitting on the ground, "Okay, that is done... but what about the puzzle piece?" she asked and turned to look at Tuesday.

"Oh, I have forgotten about that." he let out a sigh. "Maybe we can go back and quickly grab it?"

"And risk running into that thing? Not a chance." she shook her head. At the moment, she wasn't too worried about the missing puzzle piece since she still hadn't seen Camille and Jules.

"Camille, I found them." a voice called from the entrance to the first passage... Jules appeared only seconds later followed by Camille who was carrying the puzzle piece in her hands.

"Are you alright?" the dark-haired woman asked and knelt down next to Freya and Tuesday.

"I had better days," he replied and dragged a hand through his wet hair.

"Same." Freya agreed and let out a breath. "Okay, onto the next passage?" she asked no in particular... a part of her was already done and just wanted to end the whole experience before it got worse.

"How about we split up for the next one?" Tuesday suggested as he got up, "This way we might be done quicker and once we got the puzzle pieces, we meet here again and do the last passage."

"Sounds like a plan." Jules agreed and reached for Camille's hand, "We will be going into the third passage."

"Stay safe." Camille smiled at Freya and Tuesday before following Jules into the cave.

"Looks like we will be going this way then." Tuesday pointed at the cave entrance in front of them. "I hope it will be easier to get the puzzle piece this time."

"Me too... me too." the blonde murmured as she walked after him. "Wow, that is quite the chance." she gasped as she took in the sight in front of her... they were in the middle of a tropical rainforest.

"Jup... now we just have to find our puzzle piece. Do you have any idea where it could be?" Tuesday asked and moved a few bushes out of the way.

"I don't think it will be easy." Freya pursed her lips together, "Maybe if we get to a higher point." she suggested and pointed at one of the larger trees in front of them.

"It is worth a try. You want?"

"That task is all yours." she shook with her head. Knowing herself that would only end badly for herself and an injury was the last thing she could need at the moment.

"Okay... there is a volcano right in front of us and... yes, just like I thought our puzzle piece is right on top of it," Tuesday explained before slowly climbing down from the tree.

"Could you see anything else? You know maybe what might be waiting for us in the forest..." Freya wasn't in the mood for another experience with another magical creature.

"Nope and I know that you won't like it... but there is also one way to find out." Tuesday grimaced.

"You are right. I don't like it..." she pressed her lips together as she followed him through the rainforest and towards the stupid volcano which had to be of course, in the middle of this stupid rainforest full of stupid trees.

"Are you from Hogwarts?" Tuesday asked breaking the silence that had been going on for the last moments.

"Durmstrang," Freya replied and quickened her pace to catch up with him. "And you? I don't recall having you seen before the tournament started."

"I'm from Ilvermony... the tournament is the only reason why I came to Hogwarts in the first place," he explained with a smile.

"Ilver-what?" Freya knitted her eyebrows together. "I never heard of this place before."

"Ilvermony is the wizarding school in America... so, it isn't exactly a surprise that you haven't heard about it before." Tuesday told her, "And the tournament is a once in a lifetime opportunity which I couldn't miss out."

"It certainly is... I did throw my name into the goblet too but after seeing what the champions have to go through I'm glad that I wasn't chosen." Freya shook her head... experience those tasks during magical binoculars was okay because nothing could happen to her and she wasn't alone.

Getting to the second puzzle piece didn't go as smooth as Freya had hoped to... first, they ran into a group of pixies and fwoopers followed by Freya stumbling almost headfirst into a devil's snares. Luckily, Tuesday reacted quickly enough and managed to free her before she was harmed.

"Okay, let's get that puzzle piece and then leave this freaking place." Tuesday huffed out once they finally reached the volcano... at this point, it felt like they had been here for hours and Freya was done with it.

"Good plan." the blonde agreed with him. They managed to reach the puzzle piece with any bigger problems and since they knew about the pixies and fwoopers waiting for them down in the rainforest they decided that safety was overrated.

Freya couldn't remember the last time she had been running this much... not to mention, that she was also busy with casting spells at the pixies and fwoopers over her shoulder. She almost screamed out in joy as the cave entrance appeared right in front of them... they had made it.

"That was intense." the blonde breathed out as she was lying next to Tuesday on the ground.

"It was." Tuesday agreed, "I wonder what kind of trouble Camille and Jules ran into... because let's face it this place despite all the creatures is pretty amazing."

"Mhm... I wouldn't mind returning if it weren't for everything that has been trying to attack or kill us." Freya pushed herself into a sitting position, "I wonder what is waiting for us in there." she pointed at the fourth entrance.

"I don't suppose that nothing would be an option," Tuesday suggested and laughed.

"I wouldn't mind seeing nothing." the blonde chuckled... it was definitely the best and safest choice.

It felt like ages before Jules and Camille finally returned from the third passage both of them dripping wet and they had a few scratches.

"Wow, what happened to you?" Tuesday gasped out.

"Kappas and then a snuffler grabbed the stupid puzzle piece and we had to hunt him down which wasn't fun since the whole place was covered in snow." Camille explained and let out a sigh, "But we got... what about you?"

"A few pixies, devil's snare and a freaking volcano but otherwise we are fine," Freya replied.

"And we have our pice as well," Tuesday added pulling it out of his jacket. "Onto the last passage."

Freya was amazed at how he was still able to motivate himself. She was done with this place since like the first passage but giving up wasn't an option... not when they were this close away from finding the last piece.

The fourth passage was by far the creepiest place... it was an old house full of porcelain dolls and Freya felt like she was being watched with every step she took.

"I don't like this." she murmured and a loud noise almost made her jump into the air and without thinking she grabbed Tuesday' hand.

"That scary?" he asked but there was no judgement in his voice or whatsoever.

"It reminds me of this horror movie I have seen years ago and from what I can still recall it wasn't a fun experience at all." the blonde pressed her lips together. She had been suffering from nightmares for almost a whole month.

"Yeah, that doesn't sound like fun at all. But this time you aren't alone." he gave her hand a soft squeeze.

"Thank you." she smiled slightly as they walked through another passage of the house.

Finding the puzzle piece wasn't an easy task since the house was freaking huge and it was Jules who suggested that they should split up and each of them went looking in a different part.

It was Freya who managed to find the piece... unfortunately, she also found a boggart in the same room. The blonde was frozen as an image of herself in a glass coffin appeared. She watched in horror as the fake Freya kept hitting the glass over and over while the coffin was slowly filled with dirt... it felt real and for a moment she struggled to breathe.

Freya shuddered and shook with her head as she realised that it wasn't real and that the boggart was only messing with her.
She reached for her wand, "Riddikulus!" she screamed as loud and as clear as she could.

It took a few seconds before the image in front of her change... gone was the glass coffin filled with dirt. Instead, she saw herself relaxing in the bathtub playing with bubbles... definitely less scary but slightly embarrassing. Luckily, Freya was the only one in the room and not wanting to take any chances she grabbed the final puzzle piece and rushed out to meet with the others.

"I got it!" Freya called after finding Tuesday, Camille and Jules, "Now, please let's get out of here."

"Gladly." Tuesday grinned.

It didn't take them long to find the entrance which led them out of this freaking cave... the riddle made absolutely no sense to Freya but it wasn't her concern anyway. She breathed out in relief as she found herself back in the arena. She felt like hell and she probably looked like she had been through hell... it was worth though after hearing that she would be allowed to join the trip to Hogsmeade. If there was one place she had been curious about since coming to Hogwarts, this was certainly it. 

❋❋❋❋❋❋

"So, this is the famous Hogsmeade," Freya asked with a huge smile and tilted her head to the side. Jordan had offered her a small tour around the place which she had gladly accepted.

"It is. Where do you want to go first?" he replied smiling as well.

"Ehm... you mentioned a place that sells all kind of sweets in your letter once." she knitted her eyebrows together but couldn't remember the name.

"That would be Honeydukes." Jordan chuckled before turning left.

The blonde quickened her pace to keep up with him, "So, I was wondering... did you speak with Natalie yet?"

"I wanted to but there was never a moment that felt right to me." he let out a sigh and dragged a hand through his hair, "I wanted to seek her out and whenever I was standing in front of her... I didn't know what to say."

"Mhm, that doesn't sound good," Freya noted and pursed her lips together.

"Nope... and then there was the 2nd task and we have been put into the same group but as you can guess that was certainly not the right moment to bring up our problems."

"I can agree with that. Speaking about the task, how did it go for you? You looked quite shaken when I saw you at the end of it." Freya asked concerned... honestly, he had looked horrible and it had taken a lot of her willpower not to rush to his side and make sure that he was alright.

"I'm glad that we are done with it and I really hope that the next task will be easier because I don't need a repetition of what happened." Jordan grimaced and pressed his lips together.

"That worse?" the blonde regretted that she had even asked in the first place... bringing up bad memories was never a good idea.

"I had to save Natalie after she nearly drowned because for some stupid reason we decided to split up... she screamed at us which was very confusing. Oh, and she saved Nela after a devil's snare attacked her."

Freya stopped in her tracks and blinked a few times... she opened her mouth only to close it again as she didn't know what to say.

Jordan must have noticed that something was wrong as he stopped walking too and turned around to look at her, "Freya, are you alright?"

"I should be the one asking you... your sister nearly drowned... your friend nearly died and I..." she was rambling and she took a deep breath to stop herself, "How are you dealing with that?"

"I don't know." Jordan admitted and shrugged, "I have seen things I never wanted to see and when I saw Natalie being dragged underwater by a kelpie... for a moment I couldn't breathe. Despite everything that has happened between her and me the past years, she is still my sister and I care for her... and I have no clue if she even knows that." he sighed out.

"Oh, Jordan." Freya smiled sadly as she wrapped her arms around him hugging him tightly. She knew that a hug wouldn't fix all of his problems but she wanted him to know that she was there for him... that she cared for him. "Maybe that is exactly what you should tell Natalie... make her realise that you haven't forgotten about her and that you are family no matter what." she stroke over his back.

"Thank you, Freya... maybe that is exactly what I should do." Jordan said, "And sorry for ruining the mood."

Freya shook her head as she let go of him, "There is nothing to be sorry for... I told you before and I will tell you again. I'm your friend and I care for you, Jordan." she offered him a smile, "Besides, I was the one who asked you in the first place." she hooked her arms with his, "How about we get those sweets now?"

Honeydukes was truly an amazing place and Freya never wanted to leave it, not when she had found the heaven of sweets.

"How will I ever decide?" she gasped out and looked around the place. Every shelf was full of sweets in all kind of colours, forms and flavour.

"Well, what do you like the most?" Jordan asked and chuckled.

"Chocolate and lollipops." was her quick reply, "Bertie Botts beans are awesome too but somehow I always end up with the most horrible tastes." the blonde shuddered at her memory of the last time she had tried them. As much as she loved looking at grass, she didn't need to find out how it tasted like.

"That I can relate to." he shook with his head before grabbing her hand leading her to one of the shelves in the back of the shop, "Okay, here you have lollipops in all sizes, flavours and colours." he explained with a bright smile, "As for chocolate, I would always - and I mean always - suggest that you go for the chocolate frogs."

"Oh, they are the best." Freya nodded as she picked out a few lollipops from the shelf... she didn't care much about the flavours as long as the colour was bright and good to look at.

"Great, then I will quickly grab some for us." Another smile from Jordan before he disappeared in the crowd.

The blonde looked after him before shaking her head... she enjoyed spending time with him but as much as she wanted to, she couldn't ignore the fact that once the tournament was over, she would have to go back to Durmstrang... she already knew that she was going to miss Jordan especially now that she had finally met him. Freya didn't care how much weeks or months they had left with each other but she was certainly going to make the best out of it.

Lollipops in her hand she pushed herself through the crowd and nearly bumped into Jordan.

"Missed me that much?" he teased with a grin before grabbing the sweets from her hand.

"What are you doing?" she knitted her eyebrows together and looked at him.

"My treat... and I'm not going to listen to any objections," Jordan said and before she even had a chance to protest he was already gone heading towards the cash register.

The blonde shrugged in confusion before she walked outside waiting for his return. It was only a few minutes before Jordan reappeared at her side handing her a colourful bag full of her sweets.

"You know that wasn't necessary." Freya pointed out.

"And I remember saying that I didn't want to hear any objections." he replied, "Just say thank you, Jordan."

"Thank you, Jordan." she smiled before in a spur of the moment she got on her tiptoes and pressed a brief kiss on his cheek.


"Thank you, Zion," Freya smiled after he set down a butterbeer in front of her.

After parting from Jordan, she had made her way to The Three Broomsticks to meet up with Zion.

"You're welcome." he replied before sliding into the empty seat next to her, "And how do you like it?"

"Can we stay here and never come back?" she asked in return and flashed him a bright smile.

Zion shook his head and laughed, "And what about Durmstrang? And school pride? I thought that you loved being there?" he tilted his head and looked at her.

"I do... a lot actually but Durmstrang has no Hogsmeade." she pointed out and took a sip from her butterbeer.

"Durmstrang has other fascinating places and if I remember correctly, you seem to like most of them."

"I do." Freya breathed out, "Maybe staying here is a bit exaggerated... I wouldn't mind if we stayed a bit longer than we had planned." she smiled innocently, "For example, a few weeks."

"I see." Zion replied and she didn't like the look on his face, "And the reason for this wouldn't happen to be called Jordan?" he grinned at her.

She swallowed hoping that he wouldn't notice the blush on her cheeks, "What makes you think that?" she asked a bit too defensively. "I mean... I'm happy that I finally met Jordan after writing him for 3 years and he is more than I could have imagined. And I have enjoyed the time we have been able to spend with each other."

"There is nothing wrong with that." Zion pointed out casually. "I'm happy for you, Freya and if you like him..."

"But I don't know if I like him... I mean I do like him as a friend." she stopped taking a deep breath, "I thought meeting Jordan would be awkward but it isn't. In fact, it felt very natural almost as if we haven't been only writing letters to each other." she reached for her butterbeer again, "This is all so complicated." she sighed out.

"Have you tried not making it complicated? Maybe you shouldn't be thinking too much about what you do and why you do it and just do what you feel comfortable with." Zion suggested. "If you think that you like Jordan... just tell him."

"And what if doesn't like me back?" Freya crossed her arms and looked at him. "I don't want to ruin our friendship because of this. I care too much about Jordan to take any unnecessary risk."

"Then don't help him."

"I think that is what I will do... at least until I have figured out what kind of mess I have gotten myself into this time." Freya buried her head in her hands.

"It isn't a mess. That is life, Freya."

"Not helping..." she murmured under her breath... as she slowly looked up again she spotted Gemma sitting at one of the tables in the corner. "Is that Blaise?" she asked and nudged Zion with her elbow.

"Yes. Why don't we sit with them?" he suggested and before she could reply he grabbed the two mugs of butterbeer and walked over to the table.

"That is also not helping." Freya sighed as she followed him. She had no interest in meeting Gemma's fiancé as she still believed that the engagement was a stupid idea and nothing good would ever come out of it.

"Hey," she said looking at Gemma before sitting down across from her. "I'm Freya." she introduced herself and offered her hand to Blaise... she noticed that he did hesitate for a brief second before accepting it.

"Blaise. It is nice to meet you. Gemma has spoken about you a few times."

"Likewise," Freya replied before taking a sip from her butterbeer... she didn't want to judge him purely based on what she had heard from other students in Hogwarts. "Thank you for the invitation."

"There is nothing to thank me for... it wouldn't have been fair from me to invite all of Gemma's friends except for you," Blaise explained and smiled at her. 

Freya didn't know if she should trust his words or not but for the moment she was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

DONE


Camille Inés Beauchene, 34
FC: Michelle Trachtenberg

Interests: Sibellius & Fletcher (both FI)

Progress:: R1 DONE, R2 DONE, R3 DONE

☼ Outfits - Done

Spectator // Hogsmeade



Cred to MB

☼ Story - Done

“I told you didn’t I?” Sibellius looked pretty pleased with him after it became obvious that Leta finished the task as the first one.

“You did,” Camille replied but there was a frown on her face as she looked at the Hogwarts champion Niklaus surrounded by his friends. He didn’t look too good and the same could be said about the room he had been into. There was also the fact that he hadn’t used a single spell during the whole task which added another mystery to the whole situation.

“You are doing it again.” Sibellius pointed out, “What is on your mind now?”

“Can’t you guess?” the dark-haired woman crossed her arms and looked at him. “I feel like something is off.”

“It is indeed strange. But you can’t be seriously thinking that anybody would sabotage him?”

“Why not? May I remind you that this is a competition.” Camille arched up one of her eyebrows.

“I’m aware of that but I can’t imagine anyone taking this risk. Just think about what would happen if it were true.. it is just plain stupid and would probably ruin the reputation of whatever school is involved for the next years.” Sibellius said and shook with his head.

“I’m not saying that Beauxbatons or Durmstrang is behind the sabotage. You can’t expect me to believe that you completely missed the tension that had been going on in Hogwarts ever since their champion had been chosen.” Camille pointed out… like it should have been obvious from the beginning.

“Of course, I didn’t miss that… it would have been hard to do so. But there is nothing we can do about it, Camille.” Sibellius replied and she knew that he was right, “We are guests in Hogwarts and I don’t want to make a big fuss about something we can’t prove.” He reached over and clasped her shoulder briefly, “I’m going to congratulate Leta. Are you coming with me?”

“We can only hope that nothing else will happen during the tournament.” Camille got up from her seat… she wanted the Triwizard Tournament to be remembered as a fair event and not because someone apparently wasn’t able to play by the rules.

••••••

A little over a week had passed since the first task and after evaluating the evidence and talking to the champions and everyone else that had been part of the 1st task, an investigation was pending. In Camille's opinion, it was the right decision and while she wanted to find out who was responsible for what happened to Niklaus, she hoped that it wasn't someone from Beauxbatons. Usually, she did trust her students blindly but given the circumstances, it seemed like everything was possible.

As she arrived at the Beauxbatons carriage in the late afternoon, she was surprised to find Fletcher and Sibellius in the middle of a game.

"Camille." the Durmstrang headmaster spotted her first and greeted her with a bright smile. "Would you like to join us?"

"Ehm, joining what exactly?" the dark-haired woman asked and stepped further into the room.

"Wizard chess." Sibellius explained with a bright smile, "Have you played it before?"

"Nope." she shook her head... she had seen people playing the game before and even Jules had given it a try during their time in Beauxbatons but she never considered it interesting enough.

"We could teach you if you want." Fletcher offered with a shrug.

"Sure... I didn't have plans for tonight anyway." she kicked off her heels before settling on the couch across Sibellius. "So, how does it work? It is like normal chess - not that I know anything about that either - or is there something I should know?"

"It is like Muggle chess except that the pieces move on their own - after you give them the correct command - and they destroy each other."

"They do what?" Camille arched up on of her eyebrows.

"Usually, when you manage to beat the chess piece of your opponent, you would take it off the chess board and put in on the side." Fletcher started to explain.

"But we are playing which is different in this regard... if you make the correct move and beat another chess piece, instead of removing it yourself, your chess piece will destroy it." Sibellius finished before giving a little demonstration.

Camille watched as his queen move to a field where on of Fletcher's chess pieces was standing... she blinked as the Queen drew her sword and smashed a the other chess piece.

"Oh, that is pretty intense." the dark-haired woman noted.

"It is but the game isn't about destroying as many pieces as you can. You also need tactic and logical thinking." Fletcher repaired the broken chess pieces with a swift movement of his wand.

"Okay... there is just a slight problem. I have no clue about the names of the pieces... less alone when I know if I have won the game." Camille tilted her head to the side.

"To win, you need to set the King checkmate." Sibellius pointed at a black and white figure with a crown on their head.

"The King can move in every direction but only to the next field... checkmate means that you can no longer move the figure." Fletcher explained before pointing to the figure next titnhe to the King, "That's the Queen... she can move in every direction and as far as you want her to."

"Okay... King and Queen." Camille noted, "What about that one? I suppose it should represent a horse."

"That's a Knight and his way of moving is a bit more difficult than the others." Sibellius picked up then figure for a visual explanation, "You can move it two fields up and then one field to the left or the right... once it has left the back of thel field, you can also go back in the direction it came from."

"Stop... stop. As much as I would love to hear about the rest of the rules and how to call which piece but maybe we can do it like this... how about one of you plays with me?" Camille suggested. It seemed that Wizard Chess was far more complicated than she had imagined and it was already getting too much for her," This way I can learn more about the remaining figures and how the game even works."

"Sure why not?" Sibellius shrugged and rearranged all the pieces back on the board, "Do you have any preference?"

"Ehm... whoever is the better player?" she tilted her head to the side and smiled innocently.

"I think it would be easier if you just choose one of us because otherwise this might turn into a longer discussion." Fletcher grinned.

Camille pressed her lips together as she thought about it... the logical choice should be Sibellius since they are already knew each other but Fletcher also seemed like a good choice.

"I think I will go with Fletcher." she smiled apologisingly in Sibellius' direction.

"Your loss." he grinned charmingly, "Which colour would you like?"

"Ehm, let's go for the white pieces." Camille shrugged... she didn't think that it would make much of a difference for the game.

Turned out that it did, not only because it meant that she had to make the first move but also it meant that Sibellius had a slight advantage. Fletcher tried to help her out as much as he could giving her pointers and explaining all the possible moves she could do during her turn... it wasn't much of a surprise though that Sibellius easily managed to beat her in the end.

"Want to try it again?" he asked and flashed her a charming smile. "Or would you rather like to play with me this time?"

"I'm sticking with Fletcher." Camille replied, "But this time, I'm letting you go first."

It didn't change much though in the end since Sibellius still managed to win.

"Another round?" he asked with a smug smile.

"I have enough for today." Camille shook her head and leaned back in the couch, "Why don't you play now and I watch... and try to learn."

She wasn't convinced that she would figure out how the game worked... she did feel a bit like a lost cause.

"Oh, now you are in for a treat." Fletcher said with a big grin as he set up all the pieces.

They spent the next hours playing Wizard Chess making all kind of different moves and trying various tactics... Camille didn't understand half of them. She did notice though that Fletcher and Sibellius not only knew how to play but also seemed to get along pretty well. It brought to a smile to her lips for a moment she was able to forget about the upcoming tasks and whatelse might be happening the next weeks.

••••••

Camille had to blink a few times as she stepped out of the Beauxbatons carriage... it was the day before the 2nd task.

"Aren't you going to say anything?" Jules teased with a playful smile.

"What are you doing here?" she finally found her voice. Instead of waiting for his answer she took another step forward and threw herself into his arms. "I missed you." she buried her head in his neck.

"I have missed you too." Jules whispered and stroke over her back, "And to answer your question... I was in the mood to visit you and maybe I can check out the next task of the tournament while I'm already here."

"You have no idea how happy I am to see you." Camille pulled back and wiped over her cheeks... usually, she had her emotions under control but this was one of the rare exceptions. "Where is Damien?"

"Your parents watching him for the weekend." Jules explained placing a hand on her cheek, "They asked me to send you greetings and your father wants you to stay out of trouble." There was a mischief glint in his eyes. "I wonder what kind of trouble he might be talking..." he leaned forward their lips almost touching.

"Well, there was this one time when I was in Hogwarts and he caught me making out with this really cute guy." Camille smirked before she grabbed the front of his shirt and kissed him.

••••••

"Magical binoculars?" Jules asked for the third time and arched up one of his eyebrows, "Who came up with that idea?

"Probably one of the tournament experts." Camille shrugged, "The students seemed to love them though during the first task... and I think it will be quite the experience. Unless, you want to spend the next days looking at an entrance and waiting for the champions to emerge." she tilted her head to the side.

"Okay, that does indeed not sound like fun." Jules said before he grabbed her hand and intertwined their fingers together, "Luckily, I'm stuck with you for this task."

"Just this task? And I thought that you would be stuck with me forever." she looked briefly at his lips and if it weren't for some of her students watching, she would have already kissed him.

They got interrupted by one of the Ilvermkry students walking up to them after he had been sorted into their group... followed by Freya, a Durmstrang student.

"I'm sure you know who I am." Camille introduced herself., "But please call me Camille since it will be easier for the upcoming task. Oh, and that is Jules." she smiled and pointed at the him.

She noticed that Freya briefly glanced at the their hands... probably not only noticing that they had their fingers intertwined but also the matching wedding bands. Not that Camille minded as she never made a bit secret about her marriage.

"It is nice to meet you," Jules said smiling as well. "Shall we?" he asked and pointed at the binoculars.

"Let's go." Tuesday sounded enthusiastic and took a step forward.

Stepping into the magical simulation was a slightly unpleasant feeling and Camille couldn't stop but hoping that everything would be fine... this was a huge change compared to the first task mainly because of the magical creatures waiting for them but also because pain sensor sure promised to make it quite the experience for them.

"Okay, how do we want to do this?" Freya asked licking over her lips. The first passage was right in front of them and honestly, it didn't look very inviting.

"I suggest that we stick together. We don't know what is waiting for us and I would rather not take any risk." Camille replied and pulled out her wand.

"Sounds like a plan for me." Tuesday agreed and nodded, "What exactly are we looking for?"

"From what I understand, there are four puzzle pieces and we can find one at the end of each passage," Jules replied.

"Lumos!" Camille called out after she entered the first passage... it was pitch black which was never a good sign. Not to mention that she didn't want to risk losing the others.

"Okay, here is the rowboat which should get us across the lake in no time," Camille explained.

"That sounds simple." Tuesday grinned and got into the boat.

For a few moments, everything seemed to be fine as Camille couldn't pick up any strange noise coming from the cave nor was she able to spot anything lurking in the many shadows.

"What's that?" Jules whispered and pointed at a bright spot that appeared out of nowhere... quickly followed by more and more.

The dark-haired woman gasped out once she realised that a huge swarm of glowing bugs was heading their way.

"That doesn't look good." Jules pointed out and pressed his lips together.

"Get down!" Camille shouted as the first glowing bugs started attacking the boat.

She cast various spell managing hit a few of the bigger bugs when she saw something moving right under the boat... she wanted to call out for the others but it was too late. The creature knocked over the boat and she was thrown over water.

Camille gasped loudly and spat out some water as she tried to find the others... the glowing bugs were still close by illuminating parts of the cave. The dark-haired woman almost screamed as a kelpie swam past her.

"That's not good." she whispered and slowly made her way towards the shore.

She had almost reached it when something grabbed her leg pulling her underwater. Camille fought against the panic and the urge to scream and instead, cast an effective spell straight at the kelpie.

She took a deep breath after emerging from the water as she felt someone wrapping his hand around her waist.

"Sshh.. it is me." Jules whispered against her ear as he pulled her out of the water. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, just a little bit shaken. What about you? And where are Freya and Tuesday?" Camille asked once she realised that they weren't with them anymore.

"I saw them getting out on the other side of the lake." Jules replied sounding calm - as much as that was possible in this situation.

"Oh, thank god." Camille breathed out and leaned her head on his shoulder... Real or not, no teacher wanted to be responsible for a serious injury of a student.

"And I also managed to find that." he smiled and pulled the first puzzle piece out of his pocket.

"This is amazing and as much as I would like to enjoy this moment... please let's get out of here." she slowly stood up careful not to make any noises. The bugs might be gone but she wasn't interested in ruining into another magical creature. "But first, we have to get to Freya and Tuesday."

In the theory that sounded like an easy task since there was just the lake between them but in reality... in Camille's opinion one encounter with a kelpie was one too much.

"Any idea how we can do that?" Jules pressed his lips together and looked at her. "Seeing how swimming is out of the question."

"Have you tried to aparate yet?"

"Right after we stepped into the cage... there is a magical barrier." he frowned.

Camille pursed her lips together while trying to come up with anything that was going to work but her mind was absolutely blank.

"What is that?" Jules suddenly asked and pointed across the lake.

One of the erumpents was chasing after Freya and Tuesday who had almost reached the entrance.

"We have to help them." the dark-haired woman jumped on her feet before grabbing Jules' hand and dragged him after her.

"And how? You know exactly that there is no spell or charm strong enough to get through their skin." Jules pointed out but still reached for his wand.

Luckily, the decision was taken from them since Freya and Tuesday managed to escape from the passage just in time.

Camille and Jules breathed out in relief... there was nothing left for them to do other than leaving this freaking place as well. Which was easier said than done since the erumpent made no attempt to move away from the entrance at all.

"I hope we won't be stuck here forever." the dark-haired woman chuckled and leaned her head on Jules' shoulder.

She couldn't tell how long they waited sitting on the ground hidden in the darkness before that bloody animal finally walked back deeper into cave.

"Let's get out of here and hope that Freya and Tuesday are still waiting for us." Jules smiled and walked out of the passage first.

She heard him calling out as soon as she left the cave as well and she breathed out in relief upon seeing Freya and Tuesday sitting on the ground.

"Are you alright?" the dark-haired woman asked and knelt down next to Freya and Tuesday.

"I had better days," he replied and dragged a hand through his wet hair.

"Same." Freya agreed and let out a breath. "Okay, onto the next passage?" she asked no in particular.

"How about we split up for the next one?" Tuesday suggested as he got up, "This way we might be done quicker and once we got the puzzle pieces, we meet here again and do the last passage."

"Sounds like a plan." Jules agreed and reached for Camille's hand, "We will be going into the third passage."

"Stay safe." Camille smiled at Freya and Tuesday before following Jules into the cave.

"Wow, that is unexpected." Jules said and looked around the third passage... they were int he middle of a beautiful Japanese garden.

"It is and but also freaking cold." the dark-haired woman shivered and wrapped her arms around herself... it was a beautiful sight but she couldn't forget that they had a puzzle piece to find. And that there were likely a few magical creatures just waiting to attack them.

"Okay, let's find that damn piece and then we get out of here." Jules reached for her hand.

Slowly but steady they managed to get through the Japanese garden... or at least, Camille hoped so because every part looked the same.

"Is that?" Jules asked and suddenly stopped and pointed at the lake in front of them. Right in the middle there was the puzzle piece on top of a stunning lotus-covered pond.

"Yes, it is." Camille nodded. She tried to use accio on the puzzle piece since she wasn't in the mood to get wet again but of course, it didn't work... it would have been too easy anyway. "Okay, here goes nothing."

She hissed out after stepping into the cold water... luckily it wasn't too deep and within a few moments she had the puzzle piece in her hands.

"Here, let me help you." Jules landed forward extending his hand.

Camille reached out to grab it when a kappa emerged from the water and jumped straight at Jules. She nearly dropped the puzzle piece out of shock.

"Let go of him!" she screamed before casting various spells at the creature before it finally let go of Jules and escaped back into the pond. The dark-haired woman immediately rushed to his side.

"That hurt." Jules gasped and pressed his hand against an open scratch on his arm.

Camille dropped her head on his shoulder and hugged him tightly, "Okay, I'm done with this place... let's get out of here."

They walked in silence through the garden passing parts that looked the same but surprisingly it took them less time to get back to the entrance. She stopped for a moment to breathe when something moved in a bush nearby.

"What the-" Camille asked when a snuffler appeared out of nowhere before grabbing the puzzle piece from her hands... she blinked a few times as it vanished into thin air. "You have to be kidding me!" she cursed loudly, "Jules, you stay here. I will take care of this little thief."

The dark-haired woman didn't give him a chance to reply as she simply took off in the direction the snuffler had disappeared in. Finding the little creature proved to be the hardest task of the whole challenge yet... not only because the garden was huge and every corner looked the same but also because the snuffler had the unfortunate talent of being able to make itself invisble.

Camille didn't know how long it took her to find the snuffler... but it didn't matter since she managed to get the puzzle piece back.

"Okay, I got it and now we can finally leave that place." Camille announced and helped Jules stand up from the ground.

"Wow, what happened to you?" Tuesday gasped out.

"Kappas and then a snuffler grabbed the stupid puzzle piece and we had to hunt him down which wasn't fun since the whole place was covered in snow." Camille explained and let out a sigh, "But we got... what about you?"

"A few pixies, devil's snare and a freaking volcano but otherwise we are fine," Freya replied.

"And we have our pice as well," Tuesday added pulling it out of his jacket. "Onto the last passage."

The fourth passage was by far the creepiest place... it was an old house full of porcelain dolls and Camille didn't want to know who was responsible for the design and inspiration.

"Once we are back home, I'm throwing away all of Geneviève's dolls." Camille whispered and grabbed Jules' hand.

"I don't think that she will like that." he replied and chuckled briefly despite the circumstances.

"We will see about that..." she murmured under her breath.

Since the house was huge, they decided to split up again and Camille was tasked with checking one of the upper floors which was always filled with porcelain dolls... but no sign of any puzzle piece.

"I got it!" she heard Freya's voice from downstairs and Camille turned around on the spot to meet up with the others.

"I got it!" the blonde repeated after they had all gathered in the hall, "Now, please let's get out of here."

"Gladly." Tuesday grinned.

It didn't take them long to find the entrance which led them out of this freaking cave... Camille was reliefed to find out that Leta and the other champions had managed to get through all the passages as well.

••••••

Camille's lips were curled into a bright smile as she walked through the narrow paths of Hogsmeade with Jules at her side. It was their treat for making it through the four passages.

"Do you still remember the first time we have been here?" Jules asked and flashed her a charming smile.

"Of course... do you actually believe that I would forget about our first date?" Camille tilted her head to the side and looked at him.

"You mean first real date. You shouldn't forget the one time we went out during your 6th year in Beauxbatons." he pointed out.

"That doesn't count and you know it." Camille poked him in the chest... it had been in the middle of the year and Jules' idea back then had involved going to one of the empty classrooms to make out. "Not only because your idea was stupid but also - if I may remind you - because I didn't go."

"Which I still consider truly a shame... but maybe I can persuade now. I'm sure that Hogwarts has plenty of empty classrooms." Jules smirked and wiggled with his eyebrows.

"You are impossible, Jules." Camille shook her head and swatted playfully against his arm, "There is something I need to tell you... and before you freak out I only found out two days ago." she took a deep breath and looked at him, "I'm pregnant, Jules."

"That are amazing news." he flashed her a bright and happy smile before placing a hand on her still flat stomach. "But please Camille, whatever you do look out for yourself during the remainder of the tournament." with his other hand he stroked over her cheek before kissing her softly.

DONE

Last edited by schoggettchen (15/09/2020 at 22:38)

Natalie 'Naz' Green // 17 // Slytherin
Interests: Blaise // Jordan // Rey // Sidh (interacting with Nela and Nik too)

Story

Even if my wand had been had been pointing in the right direction, my jinx wouldn't have had any effect whatsoever. My head slowly cranes up until I meet my 11'6" perpetrator's eyes - Hagrid.
"Well that was a bit foolish wasn't it eh?"

I allow my breath to slow slightly and swallow my tears, but I'm apprehensive about what's about to happen. It's well rumoured that the well-loved gamekeeper favours the other houses over Slytherin, with many people claiming they've overheard him saying how all Slytherin students are bad. I've personally never heard him say this, in fact, I've never really interacted with him at all. He's half wizard half giant, which makes him only slightly better than mudbloods.

Hagrid clears his throat and I meet his eyes once more. "What year are you in?"
"Seven."
"Seven! You should know by now not to come into the Forbidden Forest. Especially alone at night. Just last week a hoard of Lethifolds was spotted in these parts. Dangerous creatures, Lethifolds. Dangerous creatures indeed." he pauses, looking like he's waiting for me to respond but all I can muster is a shrug. After the events of the past couple of days I don't really care about anything anymore. I must have shown it on my face, as Hagrid's own softens.

"Look, if you promise not to come out here again I think we can keep this between us. Oh, and whilst we're at it, maybe don't go round waving your wand at your professors."
"Maybe don't go around chasing girls in the dark then." I mutter, my voice low. I have no idea if he hears or not.
""I'm suprised you didn't hear me earlier, a giant oaf charging around like that. So, do we have a deal?" Biting my lip, I nod my head.
"Right, well let's be getting back then. Oh, and stay close eh."

I'm taken aback by his kindness, I was expecting to be carted straight to McGonagall's office. Being outside of Hogwarts after hours, being in the Forbidden Forest, assaulting a teacher. I was looking at at least a month's worth of detentions and an owl home. But apparently all I'm getting is a mild scolding and an escort back to Hogwarts.

Hagrid asks a question which snaps me from my thoughts. "So er, what was you doing out here then?"
"I just needed to get away from everything."
"Everything?"
I sniff loudly and a tear rolls down my cheek. Hagrid sees, and decides not to question me further. Instead, he fumbles into his pocket and pulls out a large hankerchief. Though it's filfthy, I accept it gratefully.

"You know, I was bigger than my dad from a young age. I could pick him up at the age of 6 and put him on the dresser. He laughed so hard at that..." Hagrid continues talk nonsense as we slowly make our way back to the castle. I know he's probably trying to cheer me up but I'm not listening. I'm not even thinking really. I'm just... numb.

Eventually the lights of Hogwarts twinkle into my vision and we're close to the edge of the forest.
"Thanks... for... erm... yeah..." I mumble awkwardly, handing the hankerchief back to the half giant.
"Now don't you mention it. Let's not be making a habit of it though, eh. Although, if you ever need a friendly ear to listen, you know where I am." he says, gestering in the general direction of his odd little house. Something catches his attention. "Now who's that then."

Three figures reach the entrance of the Forbidden Forest, stopping when they see us. As we get closer, the dark, shadowy figures morph into Jordan, Niklaus and Nela.
"Now what are you three doing here?" Hagrid asks, surprise in his voice.
"Sorry Hagrid. We came looking for Naz." Nela replies. I can't quite work out her tone. Boredem, perhaps?
"Yeah, sorry Hagrid. I - we - were worried about her." Jordan says, backing her up. Both seem wide awake. Niklaus, on the other hand, looks like he's just been dragged out of bed.
Hagrid looks to me. "Seems like people were missing you." If only he knew.

Silence lingers in the air for a moment before Hagrid disrupts it. "Right, well I'll be off then. Looks like you'll be in good hands from now on." He pats me on the shoulder and takes his leave. Well, I say pat. The force of his giant hands is enough to push me back a few steps. We each say our farewells to him, some noticeably more enthusiastic than others. The trio stare at me expectedly.

"What?"
Jordan speaks first. "Natalie, I meant what I said. I was genuinely worried about you. You can't just go into the Forbidden Forest, especially not alone and at night."
"Done it before and you didn't care."
"Well I didn't know!"
"Probably just doing it for attent-" Nela chimes in. Jordan shoots her a look, causing Nela to throw her hands up. She grabs Niklaus by the shoulders and they begin to walk back to Hogwarts.

Now it's just me and Jordan. "I really was worried, Naz."
"I didn't ask you to be."
"Look, please can we talk? I can't keep going on like this I just want to talk."
"Yeah, well I don't want to talk to you."

I follow in pursuit of the others and start making my way back to Hogwarts. Behind me, Jordan sighs heavily, but it's not long before I hear his footsteps too. As I place one foot in front of the other, the events with Hagrid reply in my mind. Maybe not all non-purebloods are so bad.

I shake myself and the idea leaves my mind as quickly as it entered. What on earth am I going on about? I think it must be time for bed.

* * * * *

"I thought you liked potions, why you always sleeping through it?"
"Didn't get much sleep last night did I." It was true. After I'd made it back to the common room I went straight to bed. Persephone was already asleep, as were my other roommates. I, on the other hand, couldn't sleep. Thoughts and memories kept circling my mind - not just from the past few days but from all across my life. So yeah, I stayed up most of the night. Which is why I'm slumped over the desk trying to have a mini nap now.

Trying is the key word. Rey keeps pestering me about the work we're supposed to be doing.
"You can do it yourself, you're smart enough."
"We went through this last lesson, so are you."
"Okay, you have more motivation to do it."
"Well maybe if you left the Gryffindors alone you'd be able focus more on your work."
My nose wrinkles and a frown forms across my face. I don't dignify his snarky comment with a response.

From the back of the classroom the door swings open. I hear the sounds of heads twisting round but I don't bother looking myself.
"Sorry to interupt. Miss Green, would you come with me please."

This time my own head whips up, my pony falling in front of my face. "Me?" I mouth at Rey, questioningly. He nods.
"Now, please."
Sighing heavily, I get up from my stool and make my way over to the door. All eyes are on me, the Slytherins in the room look confused. I breifly lock eyes with Persephone but daren't say anything. McGonagall is not a patient woman.

She leads me down the corridors and I follow willingly. Hagrid must have ratted me out afterall, the little cockroach. Part of me is genuinely surprised, he seemed like he really meant what he said last night. The other part of me, not so much. That sort of 'magical folk', they're all the same.

We stop outside a defence against the dark arts classroom. McGonagall knocks, then enters - "Sorry to interupt. Miss Belan, would you come with me please." There's some scuffling in the classroom, before a smiling Nela emerges. As soon as she sees me, the twinkle in her eyes fade and her face becomes expresionless.

Nela? Now I'm really confused. What could McGonagall possibly want with me and Nela? She couldn't have found out about the Befuddlement Draught, I covered my tracks really well. Unless that little Hufflepuff weasel snitched. Unless...

Omg!

This is it.

McGonagall is about to make me the Triwizard Champion.

We silently follow our head teacher down the corridors. The slight smile on my face is just the beginning of my emotions: on the inside, my whole body is dancing in excitement. I'm not entirely sure why Nela is here though, maybe McGonagall wanted a mudblood there to witness the special ocassion? Who knows...

Eventually we find ourselves standing in her office. She tells us to sit. "So, do you know why I have called the pair of you here?"
Nela shakes her head but I speak up. "Of course I do, and I want you to know that I will happily take you up on the offer. I can't wait to get started!"
McGonagall looks taken aback, and Nela eyeballs me in confusion.
"That's great to hear Miss Green, but I'm afraid you would have been doing the detention whether you accepted or not."
Huh? "Detention?" I cry out, forgetting my place. I'm met with a sharp glare. Much quieter, a why escapes my lips.
"A pupil has made me aware of your behaviour over the past few days. Both of your behaviours." She pauses, and I'm suddenly aware of the amount of saliva in my mouth. I gulp.
"Bullying will not be tolerated at Hogwarts. You two must find a way to sort out your differences. Hopefully whilst cleaning out the potions cabinets tonight. Without magic."
"Without magic." I cry out again, earning myself another glare from McGonagall. "Sorry."
"Do the pair of you have anything to say for yourselves?" Nela utters an apology to the professor, who then turns and looks at me expectingly. I simply shrug - I've been in trouble in this offeice more times than I can remember. I've learnt the hard way that once McGonagall's mind is made up, it's pointless saying anything.

Firmly, McGonagall shakes her head. "Then you may go. Miss Green, I will be accompanying you back to your classroom." Oh cheers, thanks.

Nela nods a farewell to the head before scurrying out of the office, leaving me alone with McGonagall. "Come." she says, rising from her chair. The walk back to the potions classroom is pretty much silent, besides McGonagall offering the odd greeting to the stupid portraits on the wall. All this time, my anger stews.

Before entering my classroom again, McGonagall turns to me. "If I were you, Miss Green, I would tread carefully. Very carefully indeed." She has a knowing expression on her face, and something tells me I will be in trouble for something else very soon. She waves her hand telling me to go and I open the classroom door. She couldn't know about the Befuddlement Draught... could she...?

The door doesn't close though. "Miss Lestrange, would you come with me please."

So now it was Persephone's turn to take a magical trip to the office. I try to catch her attention as I walk past, but she ignores me and strides towards the door. Sat back down, Rey taps my shoulder. "What was that about?"
"Detention."
"Nothing new there then." he smiles, trying to lighten my mood. But my face is unable to match his.

* * * * *

"Oh, so you still want to sit with us do you?" I say, looking at Sidh as I approach the Slytherin table. "Thought you'd want to go sit with your apparent best friend."
Sidh rolls his eyes. "You're still on about this? Look, I'm sorry alright. I just don't see the need for you to be horrible to them all the time."
"Whatever." I take a seat next to him - trust me, if there was space anywhere else I would have gone there instead.

The group falls silent. I pick up a sandwich and inspect the contents - some weird, brown paste. Delicious.
"So erm..." Blaise starts, desperately wanting some form of conversation back. "I heard you got detention?"
I chuck the sandwich back onto the platter and opt for a small bowl of pasta instead. "Yup. I got assaulted and I'm the one getting punished!"
"I mean, you did cover her in boils." Blaise chuckles.
"Yeah, well she deserved it."
"I don't get why you retaliate so much. Don't get me wrong, I hate the mudbloods just as much as the next Syltherin. I just don't think they're worth all this fuss."
"Yeah, well you wouldn't. You're not really arsed about anything." Blaise brings his hand to his heart and mimes being struck. "Ouch, that hurt."
"Give over, you know it's true." I can't help but smile. Sidh, on the other hand, just sits there silently munching on a lettuce leaf.

There's some general chatter for a moment, before conversation turns to Niklaus' attempt at yesterday's task. Unfortunately, I had still been in the escape room myself when he emerged from the room, and so I missed the wonderous spectacle myself. However, I have heard many, many accounts of it.
"Oh it was fantastic." Blaise sneers, clearly having witnessed the events first hand. "It was all so silent, and then all of a sudden he appears stark naked, babbling a load of nonsense. Honestly, I would have paid to see it. Ha!"
Laughter erupts across the table.
"The stupid mudblood must have been charmed or something." Tamsin sniggers.
"Yeah, well hats off to the wizard who got him, that's all I can say."
"Or witch." I mutter.

Sidh stands up suddenly, looking rather annoyed. What's up with you?" I ask, twiddling my fork in the pasta.
"I just don't want to listen to this anymore."
"Ooh, off to find your Gryffindor bestie are you?"
"Oh just shut up Naz." he snaps. "If you must know, I'm going to find Andrei. At least he's nice." and with that he leaves, leaving the rest of us with our jaws dropped open.

It appears we have a mudwallower in our midst.

* * * * *

It's surprisingly quiet as I make my way down the corridor towards the potions office. I'm not really sure what I was expecting; at this time of evening, most people are either eating dinner in the Great Hall or hanging out in their common room.

My shoulders ache as I carry an enormous bag of dread with me. These next couple of hours are going to suck. I don't really mind the idea of cleaning out the potions cabinet - granted, it's not what I really want to be doing, but whenever I've been made to do it before it's not been too bad. I actually kind of enjoy looking at all of the ingredients and trying to recall the most advanced potion you can make with them. No, the reason I'm not looking forward to this detention is because I'm doing it with that sickly-sweet mudblood.

"Natalie?"

I've been so lost in my thoughts that I didn't even notice my brother approaching me from the opposite direction.

"What?"
"How you doing today?"
"Just splendid, thanks."
"Good." He slips his hands into his pockets, looking incredibly awkward. "I was just walking Nela to the potions office."
"That's nice." I'm really not for this polite awkward chat, especially with him.
"Look, I spoke to her. Nik as well. They both said they're gonna leave you alone from now on, Nela's fixed the badges too so that shouldn't be an issue anymore."
I shrug, not entirely sure what he wants from me.
"They're just going to try avoid you from now on."
More silence.
"It would be nice if you could do the same."
"And why should I?"
"Because there's no need to."
"But there is. You just don't understand."
"Then help me to understand."
"No."
"Then please, Natalie, do it for me. I can't keep going in such a toxic environment."

Even I don't have the heart to protest anymore. The look on his face - the desperation - I've never seen it on him before. Jordan and I used to be so close, but clearly life had different plans for us. Now blood is the only thing that ties us together. But even I, the girl some say has a frozen heart, take pity on the boy who is only 19 minutes older than me.

"Fine, I'll try not to purposely start anything. But if they annoy me or I'm pushed over the edge..." I say assert.
Jordan's shoulders relax a little. "Thank you, you don't know how much that means. It would be nice if we could-" but before I give him a chance to finish I've sauntered off.

I've said I'll try to drop things, yes, though whether that actually happens is a different thing. But I'm not prepared to become best friends with them, or have any kind of relationship for that matter, like I feel he was about to suggest.

Besides, I'm late for detention.

* * * * *

The potions office is such an interesting place. Besides the two small desks fit only for boring paper-work, the only other items in the rooms are cabinets. And I don't mean two or three, I'm talking COVERED - there's only a tiny amount of floor space, and that's purely so you can walk up and down the aisles. The cabinets themselves are stacked full with peculiar equipment and ingredients.

As soon as I open the door an overpowering smell hits me. It's always so difficult to define, I'm guessing it's a combination of all the room holds. I'm over 20 minutes late, but the mudblood - sorry, Nela - doesn't complain. Instead, she simply explains what we're supposed to do. Clean the cabinets and dispose of the spoiled ingredients. Thrilling.

I get to work straight away, figuring the quicker we get this done the quicker we can leave. Nela is working on the cabinets by the door, and so not wanting to be around her I start at the other end - at least I'm staying true to my promise to Jordan for a little while.

We clean in complete silence, both taking our time in each of our sections. Though I really don't want to be here, as someone who's partial to potions I appreciate the need to be thorough. Any leftover products could massively impact a class. So yeah, I'm trying to do a good job. Doesn't mean I'm enjoying it though. My back aches, my hands are raw and I'm extremely tired. I swear magic was made for moments like these.

Three hours later, there's only two cabinets left. Sadly, they share an aisle, meaning I finally have to work near Nela. We continue working in silence at first, only awkardly squeezing past each other every now and then to get to the bin, but when we each only have a shelf left her sickly-sweet voice wails.
"I'm sorry for punching you." I say nothing, and continue scrubbing at some leeches which have died and congealed to the shelf. Her apology certainly didn't sound sincere, and I'm convinced that she's only apologising because Jordan had words with her too. However, a more genuine atonement follows.
"I'm also sorry about the badges. They were cruel and unecessary, so I've changed them all."
"Yeah, I know. Jordan said." I monotonely inform her.
"Oh, you guys spoke?" she asks, sounding genuinely surprised.
"Yes."
"Oh, okay. Well, I'm just going to try keep out of your way. So... yeah..."

I can sense she's waiting for me to say something else but I don't. I don't want to talk to her any more than I have to and I'm sure as hell not apologising to her. At the end of the day, I've not done anything wrong. Sure, I sabotaged the biggest day of her best friend's life but she doesn't know that. All she knows is I hate mudbloods and that's certainly never going to change. So yeah, I have nothing to apologise for.

We finally finish cleaning up and I leave with two apologies and some new, albeit slightly spoiled, ingredients I've pocketed. All in all, not a bad detention.

We'll just ignore all of my crippling pains.

* * * * *

"What the heck happened to you?"

I've spent the past thirty minutes sat on the sofa cuddling a cushion, trying to summon up the energy to go take a bath. The manual labour I was forced to endure has left me sore, aching and just generally feeling rubbish. But Persephone, who just entered the common room, looks even worse. She's covered in filfth and if I'm quite honest, smells a bit.

"Detention."
"Snap. What did they make you do?"
"Clean the animal pens. Without magic."
"Ew, had that one before. Sucks doesn't it."
"Yup." she plonks herself down next to me with a heavy sigh. I can't help but wrinkle my nose as the smell of sweat and mud gets stronger.
"What'd you do?"
"I didn't do anything." emphasis on the I. "I was set up."
My eyes widen. "What d'you mean?"
"Someone told McGonagall I had a prohibited item."
"And did you?"
"No, I just said I was set up." She sounds angry, and if I'm perfectly honest I'm quite angry too. As long as you're Slytherin, you're always guilty.
"What? So no idea who?"
"Nope." she twists a fray of her jeans round her finger. "I have a way we could find out though."
"Oh yeah, what?"
"There's this charm. The Legilimency Spell. Someone mentioned it to me."
"What's it do?" I feel like I've heard of it before, but I can't be certain.
"Lets you delve into memories. Like read their thoughts and shizzle."
"Wouldn't that just confirm who did it, though? Like, wouldn't we need to find the person first?"
She hesitates. "Yeah, I guess. I'd need to read more about it first.

"What did they get you for anyway?"
"Just all the stuff with Nela."
"But she assaulted you!"
"Tell me about it! But apparently we've both been bullying each other, and so the way to sort it out was to make us clean the potions office together."
Persephone scoffs. "Urgh this school is so stupid."
"Aha, tell me about it."
"You up for a party tomorrow night?"
"Huh?"
"Parties? You do that kind of thing here?"

The memories of the previous parties replay in my mind. Broken ankles... trashing the Great Hall... hooking up with Sidh...

"Sure."

* * * * *

"Isn't this fun, are you guys having fun?" I push myself in between Blaise and Persephone and put an arm round each of them. They seem to be having a fairly serious conversation.
"Yes, we're having fun Naz."
"Well try telling your faces that. You look sooooo boooored." I slur.
"How much have you had?"
"Well there was Simon, Josh, Sidh..."
"Not how many people you've slept with." Blaise chuckles. "She meant how much have you had to drink."
"Not much."
"Hmmm, seems like it." Persephone doesn't sound impressed, which makes no sense to me since she was the one who suggested this party.
"Well, let's not have a repeat of last time." Blaise smriks. I hear Persephone ask what happened last time but I'm already staggering towards the group dancing in the centre of the room, pouring myself a glass of Daisyroot Draught as I go.

Time seems to have changed, I can't tell if it's gotten faster or slower but it feels different. The pains from the previous day's detention have gone and I'm genuinely having a great time. Until I see Sidh.

"Naz, are you okay?"
"You're a jerk!" I shriek, throwing the contents of the glass over him.
"What the heck Naz?" The red liquid drips off of him and I can't help but smile.
"That's for being a sssssnake. And not the good kind."
"You're seriously still made about-"
"What on earth is going on here?"

All eyes turn towards the door, as do mine, though I'm squinting. I'm like 80% sure it's our head of house. The music cuts and it's so silent you would hear a Sopophorous bean hit the floor.
"Professor McGonagall will hear of this. Now get to bed, all of you."

Bodies swiftly move towards the stairs, leaving me swaying in the centre of the room.
Sidh looks annoyed, but stretches his arms out towards me. "Come on Naz."
"No. No, don't touch me." I cry, taking a step back. I misplace my foot and end up crashing to the ground.

"It's okay, I've got her." my ears are ringing and I have no idea he said that. Suddenly a pair of arms grab me and I'm hoisted to the ground.
"Blaisie." I can't help but stumble but his arms grip me tightly.
"Here, I can help."
"No, Blaise don't let him touch me. I don't want him touching me."
"It's okay, he won't. He's just behind to catch you if you fall."

I allow Blaise to guide me to the stairs. "We're going to do this nice and slow, okay."
"Why'd you let her drink so much?" Sidh asks, sounding impatient.
"She's only little, it creeps up on her. Besides, I'm not her guardian!"

Blaise half carries, half drags me up the stairs and into my dorm. I'm not sure what happened to Sidh, but Blaise takes off my shoes and jewelry and helps me into bed.
"I don't really know who this Gemma is but she's lucky to have you. You're a good friend."
"I'll remind you of that in the morning." he says, half grinning, half frowning. I know that doesn't make sense but nothing really makes sense at the moment.

I'm barely concious now but I overhear him talking to Tasmin - "I've put a cauldron by the side of her bed, but can you keep an eye on her please?"

There's some giggles followed by something about Persephone being missing, but I'm out.

* * * * *

"Oh, sorry, didn't know you'd be in here."

I lift my throbbing head from the desk and turn to face the voice. "Oh, it's you."
"You look rough. Good party then?" Rey asks, a slight grin on his face.
"You heard?"
"The whole school heard."
I shrug and reach for my water bottle.

"I'll come back later then."
"What? No, you can stay."
"You know there's potions that literally get rid of the effects of a hangover, right?" Rey reminds me as he takes a seat beside me.
"I know I know. But riding the rough makes me promise myself I won't go so hard next time"
"Which of course I'm sure you stick to."
"You know it. How comes you're not eating anyway?" Afterall, it is lunch time. I'm not hungry, hence why I've opted to relax in my favourite napping place.
"I've been avoiding The Great Hall, too much drama for my liking."
"Drama? What drama? Nothing interesting has happened around here for days."
"Not taking the risk."
"So, you're avoiding the drama by coming to sit with the girl who makes the most drama? Makes sense."
"Well in my defence I didn't know you were in here."
"Fair enough." I shrug, taking another sip of water. "So what, you just come hang out in here by yourself?"
"Well, sometimes people join. But yes, primarily by myself."
"And do what?"
"Practice potions. Today I wanted to try a love potion."
"Oooh any particular reason?" I tease. Rey shakes his head and states that it's just for practice, but I'm not convinced. "You still can, make it I mean."
"Nah, it's okay. I'll just come annoy you for a bit instead."
"Nahh go on. I can help, it'll be a laugh."
He gives a surprised laugh. "You, voluntarily offering to help make a potion? Am I dreaming?"
"Oh ha ha very funny."
"So you're serious?"
"Yep, got nothing better to do than wallow in self pity." I joke.
"Great, you go get the peppermint, rose thorns and rose petals from over there and I'll grab the rest." He seems genuinely happy that I want to help.

Sadly, lunch doesn't last long enough for us to complete the potion. Rey says he'll be back in his free period later to finish it, and says I can join if I want.
"Hmm, maybe. I'll see if I've got anything better on." I say, sliding back into my seat. Rey looks confused.
"Don't you have a class now?"
"Yeah, but it's only transfigurations. Doesn't matter if I'm a bit late."
"Right, well unlike you I do actually care if I'm late so I'm going to head off."
"Have fun."

I wave and watch him head to the door, but before he leaves he turns back. "Look, I know it's probably not your thing, but a couple of us are meeting this weekend to practice making some potions. You're more than welcome to join if you want?"
"No offence Rey, but I don't think I really like most of the people you hang around with. I certainly don't think they'd appreciate me turning up either. Thanks for the offer, though."

Rey nods in understanding, finally turning and leaving. As he saunters off, my eyes can't help but follow his butt, and a little spark runs through my body.

* * * * *

It's the day of the next task of the tournament. I considered trying to sabotage Niklaus' chances again, but there's rumours circulating that an investigation into the first task is pending and I'm not sure I've got the balls.

Myself, Blaise and Persephone head down to the task together. Things have been fairly quiet between the three of us since the party. Apparently Persephone wandered off somewhere at some point, and since then her mind has seemed elsewhere. I've tried asking her a few times what's up but she's not willing to share, so instead I've been relying on my beautiful Naz charm to try put her in a good mood.

I'd also not seen Blaise since the party either. I apologised for my behaviour the moment I saw him, to which he said it was okay and that I would have done the same for him, as I have countless times before. Things seem to be okay with us, but I guess only time will tell.

Now I'm being handed another pair of binoculars so I can try out the excitement for myself. Great. To make matters worse, Blaise and Persephone have already found their group, so I know I'm not with them. I wonder which losers I've been put with.

Oh no.

Please.

No.

Nela, Jordan and Sidh are heading this way, and it looks like their binoculars match with mine.

Great. I'm stuck with a mudblood, a mudwallower and my brother. I'm not sure which one's the worst.

This is actually the first time I've seen Sidh since the party - I don't know if he's purposely been avoiding me or if ours paths just happened to not cross. One thing I am certain of though, is that this is going to be extremely awkward. Painful, in fact.

Jordan looks just as alarmed to find out we've all been put in the same group. Nela and Sidh don't look particularly please either. Oh my gosh this is going to be hell.
"Look, I know there's a lot of tension between some of us here." Come on Jordan, we all know what you mean. They despise me and the feeling's mutual, and we're not exactly great either. "But I'm hoping we can all at least pretend to get on so that we can win this together." Nela and Sidh nod in agreement, and I just silently stare back at him. As much as I hate to admit it, I would quite actually like to win this task. Especially as there's a trip to Hogsmeade at stake, I love the Shrieking Shack. And at least it's a magic task this time.

* * * * *

Footsteps echo as we make our way into the cave. There's definitely a chill in the air, but I wouldn't say it's cold. Jordan, Nela and Sidh are all out front leaving me trailing behind. I'm not happy. Really not happy. I was kind of looking forward to this challenge, but now I'm stuck with three of the worst people in the world. URGH.

After a while the cave opens up into four separate passages. The others stop in front of the entrances, turning round and waiting for me to catch up. A moment later, I'm beside them.
"We-we were thinking about just going into them one by one, together." Jordan explains.
"No."
Nela dramatically rolls her eyes, whereas Sidh's won't meet mine.
"What do you mean, no?" my brother asks.
"As in, I don't really want to." I snarl. "A. it will be quicker if we split up, and B. I don't really want to be around any of you longer than I have to be if I'm honest."
"So we split off into pairs?"
"Or she can just go off by herself." Nela snipes back. Jordan shoots her a look but for once, I'm in complete agreement with her.
"Fine by me. I'll take the first one."
Jordan looks panicked, and even Sidh shows a flicker of concern. "I really don't think we should split up. Who knows what we're going to face."
"You guys stick together then. But like I said, I'm taking the first one."
Jordan goes to open his mouth but Nela interupts him - "Just let her go. There's no point arguing with her, besides she'll only ruin it for the rest of us." She notices him looking pained and squeezes his shoulder. "I'm sure Naz can handle herself anyway."
"She most certainly can." Sidh mutters.

I hear Jordan protesting and the others trying to both calm him down and formulate a plan, but their voices grow quieter as I head further and further down the passage. The deeper I go the less light I have, until eventually it's pitch black. I think back to my recent outing in the Forbidden Forest, even that hadn't been this dark.

"Lumos." I murmour, breaking the silence. It's a good job I hadn't taken another step forward - the light my wand now emits shows me that I'm on some kind of pier. I peer over the edge and I'm greeted by dark water. It's like an abyss, stretching as far as the eye can see.

I notice a small rowing boat tied to the end of the pier and it becomes obvious what I must do. Carefully, I climb into the boat and cast a simple charm which allows the boat to move by itself. I'm certainly not about to tire myself out with rowing.

With my wand still acting as my only light source, the boat glides gently across the still water. I can't help but wonder how the others are getting on: is their passage as easy as mine? Even if it was, I doubt they'd be managing as well. They're just not as good.

All thoughts are put on hold as something glimmers in the corner of my eye. In the distance, on top of a pile of rocks, a giant ball glows. That has to be what I'm here to get. As the boat drifts closer to the orb the passage gets lighter, not just because of the weird puzzle piece. Glow bugs wriggle around creating odd patches of luminescence. I'm not worried about them though - they're mainly used as a replacement to lightbublbs, and are completely harmless. However, what I am concerned about is the herd of large creatures to my left, which look suspiciously like ermupents.

Okay Naz, breathe. You'll be completely fine if you don't provoke them. It's true, erumpents don't attack unless they feel the need to. But believe me when I say it's extremely hard not to attack a giant glowing rhino which would most definitely kill me with one touch of it's horn. Especially when you're sailing right past them.

One of the erumpents starts moving towards me, almighty waves being created as it's legs part the water. It nudges the boat and I raise my wand ready to defend myself, but I don't need to. After a couple of sniffs the beast has turned around once more, leaving me to continue gliding towards my goal. I reach the rocks without any issue and grab the weird glowing globe. When I touch it it's light distinguishes and the room plummets into darkness once more. I slip the ball into my pocket, but before I can mutter the words lumos once more two creatures surface from the water behind me.

Two giant horse-snake things burst out the water, crashing and lashing about. An awful, undescribable noise escapes their mouths. Unlike the erumpents, these do look like they want to kill me. My mind races to identify these terrifying creatures but in my panic nothing springs to mind.

Realising I've frozen in fear, I force myself to move and I throw myself back into the boat. I need to get out of here. Now.

The horse-snakes are swimming towards me quicker than I can think. I scream at the boat to go faster but it glides as peacefully as it did before, without a care in the world. With the creatures gaining on me I realise I'm going to have to defend myself.

"Immobulus." I shriek, sacrificing my only light source in order to strike one of the beasts. Thankfully, I'm successful, and one of the horse-snakes stops in its tracks. That's one taken care of.

But the other creature continues, and if anything picks up it's speed. My heart races as I cast the spell again, but this time I'm not so lucky. The spell misses my target and bounces off of the passage wall, dangerously close to the herd. But before I can even contemplate the consequences of having to fight off the herd as well I'm thrown from the boat and hit the water hard.

An enormous pain surges through my whole body as the freezing water hits me like a thousand needles. I rise to the surface gagging and gasping for air but something pulls at my leg and I'm tugged back under the water. I shriek as I'm submerged but it's no good, there's no one around the help.

I thrash and fight with all my strength as the beast pulls me deeper and deeper but every time that I do its teeth sink further into my leg. The pain is excrutiating. I move on to trying to cast any spell I can think of - relashio, stupefy, reducio - but everytime I either miss or the spell isn't strong enough to overpower the monster.

My lungs feel like they're on fire as they scream for oxygen, and I begin to realise that this is how it's going to end.

But just as I'm about to give up a blue beam of light strikes the monster and it releases it's grip on me. As my muddled brain tries to understand what's just happened a pair of hands grab me and pull me to the surface.

We break, and I'm unable to stop spluttering. I feel myself being pulled onto my back, and pulled across the surface of the water.
"I got her, I got her!" a man's voice called out.
"Immobulus" this time a girl.
Around me magic lights up the sky as I try to sequence what is happening. Feeling begins to return to my once-numb body and I'm hoisted out of the water and left to rest on a wooden surface. The pier?

"Natalie? Natalie? Can you hear me." it takes a while but for my brain to comprehend what's being said but I nod. Yes, yes I can hear you.
"That's all of them I think, is she alright?" something warm and fluffly is placed on me.
"I don't know. Natalie?"
"Jordan? I-I'm okay. J-just give me a m-minute."
Breathe, that's all you need to do, just breathe. Now that I've had oxygen for a good few minutes my mind begins to function properly. Enough for me to pick up on snippets of the conversations happening around me.
"I told you she shouldn't have gone off on her own."
"I thought there was meant to be pain sensors to stop this kinda thing?"
"Maybe she wasn't in enough pain?"
"She nearly died! I think that's enough pain don't you!"

"I-I'm okay." I say, slowly pushing myself off of the ground so I'm sat up. Jordan and Sidh both turn to face me, their own full of concern, Jordan's admittedly more so. Though, even Nela looks slightly worried. Damn, I never knew she cared. "What happened?"
"We got the piece from our passage and headed back to the main bit to wait for you." Jordan explains. "We'd been waiting about 10 minutes when we heard a scream. We obviously came looking for you, saw you go under the water and-"
"What were you doing, taking on kelpies by yourself? They literally kill people." Nela questions.
"Oh I'm sorry, next time I'll just stand there like a lemon." I reply, shooting her a look. She has nothing.
"Anyway, Nela cast a placement charm and then her and Sidh took on the erumpents, and I came in to get you."

It then dawns on me that Jordan is also dripping wet too.
"Did you guys get your piece?"
"Yeah, but I don't think that matters anymore. We have to stop, get you to matron."
"No." I say, anger in my voice. "We have to continue."
"You nearly died!"
"And I didn't do it for nothing! I'm not giving up because of some minor thing. This is my chance, I mean, our chance!"

Jordan looks unconvinced, but Nela clearly has another issue on her mind.
"Hold on a second. We literally just saved your life and you've not even said thanks!"
"Yeah, well I didn't ask you to help! I could have handled it."
"Could have handled it? Could have handled it! If we hadn't turned up you would be dead right now, end of."
"I was actually just about to cast the placement charm myself."
"Oh my gosh. You really are something else. You ungrateful little-"
"Yeah well at least I'm not a filfthy-"
"HEY!" Jordan shouts, and both myself and Nela stop. "Now is not the time."
"Jordan's right." utters Sidh. "And right now, I really think-"
"You really think we should get going to the next passage. Coudln't agree more." I state, standing up. Pain shoots through my right leg and I remember the kelpie's bite. I glance down and see blood oozing through my trousers.

"Vulnera sanentur." calls Nela, fake smile on her face. "Don't worry, I'm not expecting you to be grateful." she says sarcastically.
"Good." I reply. "Then let's get going." I limp out of the passage, happy to hear the others soon following suit.

Truth is, I am grateful that they showed up. But I sure as hell ain't going to tell them that.

* * * * *

We’ve entered the fourth passage next - Nela had a bad feeling about it and wanted to get it over and done with, so of course we all had to do what Nela wanted. 

She keeps complaining about how creepy it is, the others agreeing with her every so often. The fourth passage led to a little house, neglected, but otherwise normal. On the inside however the rooms are full - and I mean full - of porcelain dolls. They blink and follow you around, but I wouldn’t describe them as creepy. I’d say more… sad. The dolls, presumably once loved and cared for, are now abandoned and rotting. I can’t help but draw similarities between them and myself.

Urgh, how soppy do I sound. I must have hit my head at some point.

"Accio puzzle piece" Sidh calls out.

Nela stifles a laugh, "I don't think that will work in here."

Talking of my injuries, my leg still hurts a bit but other than a limp, I’m okay. My head is now completely clear and I’m able to focus on finding another piece of the puzzle. 

"Argh!"

I spin around almost instantly. Jordan staggers backwards, sending some of the dolls flying. But it's what's in front of him that I'm bothered about. I'm staring at myself, who's taunting Jordan. Our parents stand behind me - other me - sneering and beckoning my brother closer. 

Jordan's initial fear evolves into determination - "Riddikulus!"

The image of my family begins to morph, and soon we're all covered in some sort of slime, and are slipping and sliding all over the place. Jordan recites another spell and soon our family ghosts disappear. Nela gives him a pat on the back but he's not interested, instead he's looking at me with a solemn expression.

"Natalie, I-"

"Whatever. Let's just find this stupid thing." So I was one of my brother's greatest fear, that's completely fine and doesn't bother me in the slightest. Totally not fighting back tears.

We continue rummaging through the room in silence, still no closer to finding the piece before the whole bogart incident. 

"Wait!" exclaims Nela, stopping mid-search, "Where's Sidh?"

As if on cue, Sidh calls out "I'm up here, I think I've just found it."

Jordan and Nela share a smile before heading towards the stairs, and I unwillingly follow. Their celebrations are short lived though - Sidh cries out.

The three of us charge out of the room. Sidh is suspended in the air, surrounded by an extremely large quantity of pixies. Nela goes to raise her wand but before she can utter a word a group of the pixies ascend on her, pulling her hair and lifting up her skirt. The spectacle is enough to make me forget about the bogart and actually smile.

Then they spot me and Jordan. They zoom towards us but before they can reach Jordan chants the immobulus charm.

"Jord no, Sidh!" she screams, panic in her voice. All eyes flash up to the pixies in the air who, now stunned, drop their prisoner.

Sidh tumbles towards the ground and Nela covers her eyes. I, on the other hand, react without thinking. "Aresto momentum." Instead of smacking the ground Sidh stops a few inches from it, before gently resting on it. With the pixies now having released her Nela rushes over to him, Jordan following suit.

"Are you okay, are you hurt?" She gushes.

He shoots her some kind of look, I'm not entirely sure what. "Yeah, I'm okay. Thanks." He says, the last bit directed at me.

"Doesn't mean we're okay, but you're welcome."

"Hate to be the one to ask, but do you have the piece?" Jordan asks.

Sidh opens his palm to reveal the ball he's been gripping tightly on to.
"On to the final passage then, if you're up to it of course?"
Sidh nods enthusiastically to Jordan's question, "Of course."

* * * * *

"Okay, bring me down." Nela calls, and the guys lower her down to the ground. "Okay, so I don't want to worry anyone, but the piece looks like it's on top of a volcano."

A volcano? How the heck are we supposed to get that?

"I know we need to get out of here," Sidh starts, "but do you reckon we could maybe rest for a few hours?"

"Nope, not possible, gotta keep going."

"For once, I agree with my sister. I think we should just keep going. Besides, I still think Natalie needs to get to the ward."

"I'm fine." I snap, annoyed that he was backing me up. 

Nela looks like she's calculating something. "Okay, I'm thinking we've been in here awhile and I have a strong feeling that despite the ridiculously bright light in here, it's actually night. I think we should stop for a few hours, try get some sleep, and then proceed with clear heads."

Of course you'd think that. She's probably loving this whole experience, getting to boss everyone around and having two guys run after her - one of which should most definitely despise her. I look to Jordan, relying on his now-wanted support, but he now looks uncertain. 

"Think about it Jord, we'll be sooo much better at this if we rest for a bit. Do you really have the strength to fight off any more creatures? Cos lord knows what's waiting for us in there."
"I guess you're right…" Nela smiles and Sidh cheers whilst taking a seat on the grass.
"No, no she's not right." I protest, "we need to keep going."

Snores follow my statement - Sidh is already fast asleep, arms over his eyes to shield them from the sun.
"Sidh's not going anywhere."
"Ermm we can wake him up!"
"Don't you dare!" Nela hisses, her eyes glazed over. "This is a group thing, you might not like it but we need to do this together. So stop acting like a brat and rest."

Guess that tells me.

Jordan and Sidh both lie down, as do I rather reluctantly. I have to admit, now I'm down it does feel kinda good to just stop for a minute. Though the wound has been healed I do keep getting a random shooting pain in my leg. It will probably be good in the long run to rest it. 

I'm unable to sleep though. Partly because of the blinding sun and the stifling heat it's emitting. Mainly though, because my mind won't stop working. It keeps replaying the events of the first passage over and over. The more I think about it the higher my heart rate gets and the more agitated I feel. So, I spend my time tossing and turning, cursing at the stones which dig into my back. I only have the annoying call of a stupid bird to keep me company.

When the others stir a few hours letter I'm in an awful mood. They may feel like that time was spent well but for me it was a massive waste. 

"You okay?" Jordan looks at me worriedly. 
"Never better." 
"Stop. Just stop." Nela says, her voice raised. The three of us turn to look at her. "This is supposed to be fun. We're supposed to be having a good time. I know we're not the people you want to be doing this with but be assured that you're sure as hell that who we want either. All you've done is complain, moan and be ungrateful. So just shut up."
"Nela, please-"
"No Jordan, I won't keep quiet anymore. I know I promise I'd leave her alone but she's a nightmare. I can't deal with her anymore."

"Right, well I'm sorry I'm ruining your precious experience." I shout back, my eyes popping slightly. "I'm sorry I'm literally the worst person to be with, but at least you've all got each other. Who've I got huh? I'm so sick of the three of you, all I want is to get this done and you lot are faffing around sleeping. What is it you want huh? You want to keep us here until I'm a changed person? You want your thanks or apology or something? Well, thanks. Thank you very much for saving me back there, I guess if it wasn't for you three I'd be dead. I know that's probably what you wanted but because of you I'm still here so you're just going to have to deal with it. I'm sorry for still being alive and I'm sorry for being such a bitch to each and every one of you. Happy now?"

I take a big breath in, realising that that outburst had all happened in one gulp of air. My voice had gotten louder and more aggressive the longer the words had flown out. I feel hoarse. My shaky hands ferociously attack the tears that are falling from my face.

That shut them up. They stare at me, stunned.

Nela starts to say something but I cut her off - "Can we please just get going?"

The others nod and start walking. I take a couple more breaths before following them.

I'm not sure how long we've been on the move for, it feels like forever. We spend our time carefully stepping around mandrake and avoiding the arms of Devil's snare. The others lead on ahead, with Jordan turning back every so often. Probably checking I've not run off or something.

After an eternity we being to climb the volcano. I always thought the higher you got the cooler the temperature, certainly not in this case. The further we ascended the more unbearable the heat. And the ground was impossible to walk on, not only hard but occasionally massive chunks would fall from under your feet. But we pushed on, determined to finish.

By the time I make it to the pedestal Nela is already clutching the globe.

"What now?" Sidh asks? But before anyone can answer an army of Devil's snare wakes from the ground. I dodge the arms and pull myself onto the pedestal but the others aren't so lucky. Sidh and Jordan are grabbed by the ankles whilst Nela is held at the waist. Wands fly up in the air and the impact causes Nela to drop the puzzle piece. I watch as it begins to roll to the edge of a cliff. 

Without thinking I tare after it, but Nela croakily whispers, "Naz... please..."

I turn and see the Devil's snare wrapping itself tightly around her throat. She's pulling at it but without her wand she's powerless. Jordan is free but trying to help  Sidh who's in a similar situation, leaving me to help Nela. I glance back at the ball, which is still rolling towards the cliff. If that falls, it's over for us. Surely the pain receptor things they were all going on about before would end our trial before Nela got into any real trouble? 

"Lumos solemnly!" I charge towards the struggling mudblood, unable to shake the knowledge that the simulation hadn't stopped for me. The Devil's snare unwind and retreats, and Nela stumbles free. I don't check if she's okay though, instead racing towards the end of the cliff. "Immobulus!" That appears to be our favourite spell.

The ball rolls to a halt and I'm able to retrieve it. As I turn back ready to walk back up to the others, I notice a passage in the side of the volcano. 

A shout up to them and they're soon by my side, appearing to be okay. Nela looks as if she's about to say something but I get in before her - "Don't bother." In my mind, we're now even which means it's over for us.

The passage is only short and we soon emerge into some sort of field. Doesn't make sense, sure. The piece I'm holding begins to glow, and so I take the other one out of my pocket. Sidh and Nela get theirs too. 

The balls rise from our hands into the sky, and words begin to form. Before any of us can say anything about them we're pulled back into the real world.

I stare at the people before me, clothes tattered and generally filthy. I hate to think what I look like myself.

Knowing one of them would want to say something, and me not really caring, I walk away.

Outfits

Outfit 1:
The Forbidden Forest



Outfit 2:
Finding out about detention, lunch, and interaction with Rey in the potions classroom



Outfit 3:
Detention



Outfit 4:
Party in the Slytherin Common Room



Outfit 5:
Tournament participation

COMPLETE
You're all doing amazing by the way, loving all the stories

Last edited by Fashion-Chic (13/09/2020 at 23:50)