The Lion and his Eagle

The Defence Against the Dark Arts lesson seemed to drag for ages, most people didn’t speak a word but some people, like Oliver and Liyah couldn’t help but talk about the assignment they were doing, giving each other tips on how to structure the essay, occasionally stopping as Professor Arkansas glared at them ,carrying on once the coast was clear.

BLEEP, BLOOP, BRUGHHH!!!!
The sound of the bell filled the castle , the class exiting the room excitedly as it was now the end of the day and to finally talk to each other.Liyah waved goodbye to Oliver as he left with Percy to go back to the Gryffindor Common room. Liyah was left alone- or so she thought.

“I can’t believe he sat me next to that troll!” exclaimed Penelope, grabbing Liyah’s hand, the two of them walking down the corridor , “I swear he was sniffing me the whole lesson.”

“Eww!” said Liyah with disgust. That guys a freak, she thought.”Hey it's dinner time, so why don’t we head to the hall.”

“Oh I would love to.” replied Penelope. “But.. I can't.”
“You're not coming to dinner?" asked Liyah with a sad look on her face.
“ I would love to.” said Penelope, squeezing her hand.” “But I promised Jacquie I'll go to Charms club with her.”
“Well.” sighed Liyah. “ A promise is a promise.”
“Yeah,” replied Penelope.” Besides whilst I'm there I can ask Professor Flitwick about The Challenge.”
“Can you at least walk with me to the Hall?” asked Liyah with puppy dog eyes. Penelope nodded and wrapped her arm around Liyah’s shoulder. The two girls laughed as they made their way to The Great Hall.

“I will come back.” said Penelope as they reached the Great Hall. “I promise as soon as it finishes me and Jacquie will sprint our way back here.”
“Don’t worry.” giggled Liyah as she let go of Penelope’s hand. She deserved to have dinner on her own after all, she was the one that left her and Jacquie at lunch time, not them. Penelope waved Liyah goodbye, disappearing up the stairs. I hope nothing bad happens thought Penelope.
Liyah walked into the Hall, glancing at the Ravenclaws sitting at the long table next to her, the students weren’t afraid to stare back, a large group of girls glared, whispering and muttering to each other as she slowly made her way to the end of the table. James Swinton, who was near the end, smiled and waved, Patrick Hopperman and Roger Davies also doing the same. Liyah smiled and waved back. At least some people didn’t think she was a freak with a cursed life. Liyah sat down at the table, grabbing the pie and mashed potatoes in front of her. It wasn’t so bad having dinner on her own, Liyah reflected on her day as she ate her food, slowly taking bites every few minutes. I wonder what the tasks will be in The Challenge? Will I even get picked for The Challenge first of all? I wonder what the stars will look like? I bet they're pretty. Liyah thought back to the quote Dumbledore recited in his speech. Stars don’t disappear, they keep blazing even when the night is over. Stars are like the moon, thought Liyah, they still stay in the sky even during day time, its has to be metaphorical, i wonder if-

“Well, well ,well!” cried a familiar yet annoying voice. Veronica Abrams and her two minions stood in front of Liyah, Abrams being in the centre. “ Look who it is ,it's Lonely Liyah.”

“Great to see you too, Abrams.” replied Liyah coldly . Great! Just what she needed. It was bad enough they were roommates but to torment her during the school day, now that’s just petty.

“Don’t act all cold, Sharp, we just want to chat that's all.” said Abrams with a smile, uh oh thought Liyah, this doesn’t look good.
“I’m afraid we got off on the wrong foot yesterday.” asserted Abrams. “So here's the deal, we can be friends, if you do as I say.”
“And if I don't?” questioned Liyah raising her eyebrows.
“Then,” said Abrams, getting down to Liyah’s level, arms folded against her chest. “I’ll make your time at school a living hell!”
“Let me think about it.” replied Liyah. “Uhm. No.” Of course she would say no, this was just one of her evil schemes she thought.

Over on the Gryffindor table, Oliver and Percy had come back from the common room. Katie and Alicia were sitting on the opposite side with Jackson, Angelina Johnson being on the other side.
“So you're telling me.” said Angelina, putting down her goblet of pumpkin juice. “That Liyah Sharp is your cousin, and you didn’t tell us until now!”
“I thought you guys already knew.” shrugged Jackson taking a bite of his pie.
“Well we didn’t.” replied Katie.
“Speaking of Liyah.” added Percy, “Isn’t that her at the end of the Ravenclaw table.”
The group turned their heads to find none other than Liyah, sitting at the end of the Ravenclaw table, Abrams and her minions still standing in front of her , like a pack of lions lurking near its prey.
“I didn’t even notice she was there.” said Katie turning round, meeting Oliver and Percy’s gaze.
“Yeah me neither.” replied Oliver. Why was she sitting all alone? And is that Abrams? Whatever they're talking about, it can’t be good thought Oliver as he analysed Liyah’s facial expressions.
“Wait, I thought you said Sharp doesn’t hang out with Abrams?” questioned Angelina.
“I did.” replied Katie.
“So then. Why is Abrams talking to her?”
“I don’t know.” whispered Katie, Angelina did have a point thought Katie, turning back round to get a good look at Liyah. What is Abrams doing here?

“Well.” smirked Abrams' "guess you made your decision, but let me make one thing clear- you're not special just because your friend is dead.”
“Okay that’s it!” whispered Jackson angrily. “We should do something , I'm going over there.”
“Me too.” Katie agreed, getting up from her seat.
“Count me in!” said Oliver, also getting up.
“Urm no Oliver you're staying here.” said Katie pushing Oliver by his shoulders.
“Why!?” asked Oliver, pouting. "I want to help-Abrams is clearly attacking her. We need to do something, look Abrams is trouble it’s going to take a lot more than two people to get rid of her we all should go.”
“We’ll call for reinforcements if we need any.” replied Katie.
“Besides, it looks like Liyah’s doing fine on her own.” said Alicia, pointing towards the Ravenclaw table.

“Say one more thing about my friend Abrams and I swear to Godric I will stab you in the eye!” said Liyah lifting up her fork, her eyes filled with rage, how dare she mention Cara’s name, what did she know about losing someone close to her, it's not like she ever cared about people.

“Got any room to make it a double homicide.” said Jackson approaching the table, standing right next to Clarissa Grenade. “The more the merrier.” replied Liyah smirking, double homicide ,this should be fun.
Katie tiptoed her way behind Diana Hampton, tapping her on the shoulder-
“Make it triple.” said Katie, peeking through. Hampton and Grenade tried to make a run for it, but were abruptly dragged by Abrams. “Pussies.” she muttered under her breath. Just then Oliver had appeared next to Jackson and Katie,”
“You sure we can’t make this a quadruple homicide?" smiled Oliver turning to face Liyah, who couldn’t help but smile back, who knew this was going to turn into a stab and run she thought. Liyah walked over to the three of them, placing herself into the gap between Oliver and Katie.

“Got anything to say, Abrams.” smirked Liyah.This will teach her, thought Liyah.
“Fine.” scoffed Abrams.”Take Sharp with you, but know this, you will regret being friends with this freak. If I were you I’d drown myself in a river.”
“What.” whispered Liyah. How did she know? No one is supposed to know.
“Yup.” replied Abrams.”The whole school knows how your friend died Sharp, it was suicide wasn’t it? Bad, bad thing suicide but then again i would kill myself too if I was your friend.”

“You bitch!” cried Katie.
“You better start running Abrams before I bitch-slap you across the Gryffindor table!” cried Jackson, fist ready to punch. This girl really wants to be killed thought Oliver. Liyah however was quiet, too stunned to speak, Abrams was right, she was a bad friend, she completely forgot her birthday and it was all her fault. The Goblin Trio giggled as they left the hall, Jackson glared at them until they were completely out of view.

“Finally, they're gone.” said Jackson, turning around. "Honestly I don't understand how they're so popular.”
“Me too.” replied Katie. “It's like they play follow the leader, only their leader is a tyrant who controls everyone and tortures those with any original thought.”
Oliver and Jackson nodded in agreement. Liyah was still mute, completely unaware of what they just discussed. I really am a bad friend, she thought, tears sprouting in her eyes.
“You alright Bunny?” asked Jackson, facing his cousin. 'Bunny’ thought Oliver that’s a cute nickname but if we're talking about animal appearances Liyah looks more like a deer.
Liyah didn’t utter a word, her eyes were glued to the floor, don’t cry Liyah don’t cry.
It was too late, tears were streaming down her face, “It’s her birthday today Jack.” whispered Liyah.
“It’s today!” asked Jackson in shock.
“Yea it is.” nodded Liyah
“Come here.” said Jackson pulling out his arms, Liyah wrapped her arms around Jackson’s shoulders, silently sobbing. "The worst part is, i forgot about it, i forgot my friend's birthday. Do you know how stupid it sounds- Abrams is right.” said Liyah, pulling away, tears still falling from her cheeks- “I don't deserve anything, I'm a bad friend.”
“You're wrong Liyah” replied Oliver. “You're not a bad person, you're a very good person, you’ve just had experiences others could never you're Liyah Sharp for Goricks sake and some people are jealous of that and they’ll do anything to bring you down.”
“But.” continued Oliver. "The only thing you can do is persevere, prove them wrong, know what they say- don’t stay on the ground just because you got hit by a bludger.”
Liyah wiped her tears with her sleeve, Kate coming forward and putting her hand on her shoulder.
“Now that speech was amazing Oliver!” beamed Katie, "If you didn’t include that Quidditch analogy at the end.”
Oliver rolled his eyes, who cares if he included the Quidditch analogy, the only thing that matters is that Liyah was upset and he comforted her by showing she is important, even if other people didn’t. Liyah smiled, Oliver’s speech warmed her heart, the quidditch analogy made it ten times better, even if the people around them didn’t understand .
“Thanks Oliver,” said Liyah, smiling softly.
“Your welcome Liyah.” replied Oliver smiling, gosh her smile is too cute.
The trio led Liyah to the Gryffindor table, where she sat on the same side as Katie and Jackson. Angelina, Alicia, Percy and Oliver opposite them.
“Hi Liyah!” said Angelina cheerfully. “I'm Angelina, Angelina Johnson.”
“Hi Angelina.” replied Liyah,”It's nice to meet you.”
“Y’know Alicia obviously.” said Angelina gesturing her hands to Alicia who put both her hands under her chin and smiled. “And this is Percy.”
“I don’t think we’ve met.” chimed in Percy lifting his glasses and raising his hand, very professional thought Liyah.
“I’m Percy, Percy Weasley.”
“Weasley.” repeated Liyah.”is your fathers name Arthur Weasley by any chance?”
“Yes.” replied in an instant. “He works in the Ministry in the Department of Muggle Artifacts office.”
“Oh so that's why you're so familiar!” beamed Liyah. Percy raised his eyebrows in confusion. “My mother also works in the same department, I’ve been to the Ministry a couple times and I've met some of her colleagues including your father.”
“That’s amazing!” said Percy with a smile.Liyah forced a laugh, looking down solemnly at her plate of pudding. It was nice that they invited her to sit but she still didn’t feel okay, if Abrams wasn’t that bad, she definitely was bad now and ignoring her won’t do the trick-
“Are you okay Sharp?”
“Yeah.” said Liyah in an instant. “Why?”
“Well you still seem a bit shaken.” said Oliver before Percy opened his mouth. “We were hoping that if you were to hang out with us you might feel less tense.” said Percy, finishing what he wanted to say.

“Well you know what they say about hope.” replied Liyah coldly stabbing her fork into her pudding. “It breeds eternal misery.”

The rest of the table went quiet, not a word was said. Oliver opened his mouth to say something , but nothing came out. He never expected Liyah to say something in such a manner but then again Liyah did seem like the type to speak up when angry, she would’ve murdered Abrams with that fork if we gave her the chance, Oliver thought to himself.
Liyah scanned the table, analysing the faces of the Gryffindors who had kindly taken her in, maybe that was too mean.
“I’m sorry guys.” sighed Liyah. “I didn’t mean to say that it's just…”. “Today’s been a long day and i just feel-”
“Tired.” interrupted Alicia.
“Yeah.” replied Liyah looking down at her pudding. "Just tired.” Liyah pushed her plate of pudding, too full of misery to even finish it.
“Y’know your supposed to eat your pudding instead of stabbing it ” said Alicia
“I’m afraid I’ve lost my appetite.” whispered Liyah, loud enough for the group to hear. She looked towards the entrance of the Great Hall, the floating candles decorating the ceiling as they drift in slow motion. Suddenly a hand placed itself on Liyah’s.

“I know how you feel, but if you keep pushing people away, the more lonely you’ll feel- “We're here for you.” said Angelina looking towards everybody. “All of us.” Liyah smiled sweetly at Angelina, who couldn’t help but smile back .
“Now enough of the sad talk, let's chat about something else.”

“So Liyah.” asked Katie, “When are the Ravenclaw try-outs taking place?
“Saturday.” replied Liyah. “Roger Davies is running it, I believe.”
“Oo looks like we’ve got some competition!” beamed Angelina making eye contact with Katie and Alicia
“Well not really, Liyah’s trying out for both seeker and beater, all three of us are Chasers. "I suppose it's just Justin Turnby who has to keep an eye out.”
Angelina nodded her head in agreement.
“Wait a Spell,” said Angelina. "Isn't there mostly boys on the Ravenclaw team.”
“Yea there is.” replied Liyah. “Why?”
“That makes you the first girl to play for the team in over 30 years!” said Alicia excitedly.
“I know!” said Liyah happily. “If I make it onto the team at least.”
“Don’t worry Liyah.” chimed in Jackson. “You’ll definitely make it and if you don’t me and Oliver will drop kick Davies off the Astronomy Tower, right Oliver?
“I was thinking of drowning him in the Black Lake but I suppose the Astronomy Tower would work.” replied Oliver smiling, Liyah and Jackson couldn’t help but chuckle at his comment. He’s funny thought Liyah, he's got a way with words.Liyah looked to her side, where the entrance to the Hall was, just then a young blue robed blonde came running into the hall.

“There you are!” panted Penelope out of breath. “Is it true you stabbed Abrams in the eye with a fork.?”
“ Well I was about to.” replied Liyah.
“You should have!” interjected Penelope. “Would have done us all a favour.”
“Hey Penelope!” said Katie. “We stole your friend, don’t worry she’s still yours.”
“Nah, I don't mind.” shrugged Penelope.
“Where’s Jacquie?” asked Liyah looking behind Penelope.
“Oh, she ate loads of food in Charms club so she went back to the dorm." replied Penelope, scooping mash potatoes on her fork.”So, did i miss anything else.” she asked, glancing at everyone else at the table .
“We were just saying how if Liyah gets on the team she would be the first female player in over 30 years.” said Angelina cheerfully.
“That’s amazing!” beamed Penelope.
“Yea and if she didn’t me and Oliver would drown Roger Davies in the Black Lake.” said Jackson turning towards Penelope.
“And I'll happily join you in murdering our Captain,” said Penelope cooly.
“Y’know.” interrupted Percy. “I’m starting to think I'm surrounded by potential serial killers.”
“And you realised that now Ginger?” questioned Penelope.
“Hey!” exclaimed Percy. “Just because I’m a red-head doesn't mean you can use that as an insult-
“Yea, yea whatever Ginger" teased Penelope, the boys being able to hold in their laughter, the girls breaking out into giggles seconds later. This girl is hilarious, thought Jackson . This girls a menace. What’s wrong with being Ginger, thought Percy, wait until Fred and George hear this.

The dinner had gone rather smoothly, the group began to talk about their classes and how annoying they found Professor Arkansas and were groaning about having Potions in the morning. “Hey at least we’ll be with you guys this year and not the stupid Slytherins.” said Alicia, trying to bring back everyone's spirit .
“I agree.” said Liyah, putting down her Goblet. “The Prejudiced Serpent's walk around acting as if they own the place, I'm surprised the Goblins haven’t joined forces with them.”
“The Prejudice Serpents.” repeated Alicia. “I like that I’m stealing that now!”
“Careful Liyah, don't be too loud.” said Percy smirking. "We don’t want to give them ideas would we?”
“I like him.” said Penelope, glancing at Liyah. “ A goody two shoes on the surface but a menace underneath.” Percy chuckled.
“It’s Penelope, isn’t it.” he asked, raising his eyebrows.
“Yup.” replied Penelope popping the letter ‘p’.”The one and only.” she said, winking.

The group finished dinner and started to head back to their common rooms. Liyah and Penelope walked side by side up the stairs to Ravenclaw table, Liyah filling her in on what happened with the Goblin Trio.
“No way!” said Penelope in shock. “That girl's pure evil.”
“I know.” agreed Liyah.”You would think that her being my roommate she would be a little more sensitive but no.”
“I never should have let you go alone.” sighed Penelope, heart full of regret. "Maybe if you weren't alone, she wouldn't have targeted you.”
“Don’t beat yourself up, Pen.” said Liyah comfortingly. "Besides the Gryffindors were there for me.” Penelope wriggled the key inside the hole to enter her dorm room, the two girls walking in to find Jacquie lifting herself up from her bed in a hurry. “Pen, Liyah!” she said cheerfully. "Finally I was getting bored without anyone to talk to.” “Also Liyah is it true that you-
“No!” said Liyah in an instant.
“Aw you didn’t know what i was going to ask you yet.” replied Jacquie.
“She did not stab Abrams in the eye.” explained Penelope.
“I was about to.” corrected Liyah. “But luckily my cousin and his mates were there and after that they invited me to sit at their table.”
“See, i told you we should’ve left Charms club early but did you listen.” said Penelope annoyed.
“Well I’m sorry, but it's not like I knew Abrams and her minions were going to gang up on Liyah.” replied Jacquie even more annoyed. Liyah smiled at both her friends, it was nice to know that they were there for her. Penelope even asked if she could threaten her with a balding potion, Liyah however didn’t agree even if she found it hilarious.
“Oh c’mon everyone will love it!” “It’s not like her hair is real anyway, everyone in Ravenclaw knows she’s Ginger.”
“Yeah!” agreed Jacquie sitting crossed legged on her bed. “C’mon Liyah just this once.”
“Maybe not this time, I’m already Abrams’s ‘public enemy number one’ . I don't want you guys there either.”
“Fair enough.” agreed Jacquie. “So.” she said, clapping her hands. “Anything else I should know about.”
“Yes actually.” replied Liyah. “There’s something you guys should know.” She sat down on Penelope’s bed. They’ve done so much for me today it would be rude not to tell them she thought. Penelope took a seat next to her, Jacquie faced towards, eager to listen to what Liyah wanted to tell them. This seems serious thought Jacquie. I wonder what she wants to talk about thought Penelope.
“During Ancient Runes when Professor Babbling wrote down the date I recognised it immediately.”
“What’s special or bad about today?” asked Jacquie.
“It’s…Cara’s 15th birthday.” Liyah replied quietly.
“Merlin's Beard….” whispered Jacquie.
“ Oh my gosh..” said Penelope in shock. “And you-”
“Forgot about it, I know,” said Liyah sadly. She looked down at the wooden floorboards beneath her.
“No wonder you’ve been so sad today!” said Penelope, breaking the silence.
“What?” replied Liyah. Was it that obvious? I thought I was so nonchalant about it.
“Well, you just weren't as happy as you were yesterday and we didn’t realise until lunch time when you wanted to go out on the grounds by yourself, we just thought it was normal Liyah behaviour.” explained Penelope.

“I mean I did spend all my breaks and lunches in second and third year by myself.” replied Liyah .
“Which I think is stupid!” Liyah and Jacquie stared at Penelope wide eyed. “What?” shrugged Penelope. “Y’know it’s true.” she said, nudging Jacquie in the arm. Jacquie rolled her eyes playfully. She’s not wrong thought Jacquie, it is unusual for a teenage girl to spend all that time by herself, I’ve never asked her why?
***
“So how was your first day!” asked Hanna through Liyah’s small round mirror in her hand. Hanna Marseille, a blonde, blue eyed Pureblood whose family was well respected in the wizarding community of England and France. Being the only daughter of a powerful wizarding family whose dynasty of attending Beauxbatons lasted almost hundreds of years, it was no surprise that Hanna would also attend the school too.

“It was okay, eventful but overall not bad.” replied Liyah, who was sitting on her bed in her dorm room. The room was lit up with the sun setting over the grounds of Hogwarts, illuminating the dorm room with its golden light.

“Eventful.” said Spencer confused, "Why what happened?”
Liyah explained everything, well not exactly everything, she didn’t mention the dream she had but she did talk about her classes, her friends, a certain meeting with a brunette Gryffindor and last but not least, the fact that today was Cara’s birthday and she completely forgot about it.

“Yuck!” exclaimed Hanna eating a spoonful of ice cream. Spencer slowly turned her head towards Hanna.
“Oh sorry it's not the ice cream it’s what Liyah said.” replied Hanna putting away her tub of ice cream. “Those Goblins, who do they think they are?”
“The Queens of the world apparently.” said Spencer turning towards the small mirror in her hands, making eye contact with Liyah.
“Are you okay Liyah.” asked Spencer with a concerned look in her eye, Hanna moved closer to Spencer to get in view of the mirror.
“It’s not your fault you forgot, you were just busy that’s all, y’know what they say- The longer a person is not in your life, the more you slowly forget about them.” Liyah looked over towards her window, the sun now hiding behind the mountains, the sky being split , the golden hue of the evening with the darkness of the star filled sky melting into it, like a painting . Spencer was right, being sad about Cara won’t bring her back, what matters is that she's here, right now and if Cara was here , she would definitely not want her to be sad, especially on her birthday.
“Speaking of Cara.” said Hanna cheerfully, “Spencer’s done some digging.”
“Research.” corrected Spencer, smiling.
Spencer or Spencer Darlington was brown eyed, brunette Pureblood who also attends Beauxbatons.Her family lived in the very heart of London along with Liyah and her family. Besides the fact that they were Witches and Wizards, the Darlington’s lived a rather normal life in the eye of other witches and wizards however the Darlington’s hid a secret, a secret that would destroy their high profile image if one were to find out. In terms of personality, Liyah and Spencer were like twins from different mothers, academic overachievers , avid readers as well as having passions for both sport and art. Hanna was also the same but didn’t really care about being top in her class.”As long as i get B then I’m good because B stands for Brilliant”

“So what did you find?” asked Liyah, taking a piece of parchment and a quill from her bedside table.
“Well.” replied Spencer taking out her books.”I expanded on the findings that you gave me and I looked over at missing people cases that have happened in France, at least in our area y’know to see if there’s a pattern of some kind.”
“And?” said Liyah, raising an eyebrow with curiosity.
“From what I found.” said Spencer, finding the page she was looking for. “Not many missing person cases in France are labelled as suicide even if the body’s found and there’s no determined killer.And it’s same here too- There is no correlation between going missing for a long time and suicide.

Liyah scribbled all over her parchment, noting down every bit of detail, no correlation between suicide and missing people.
“What’s even crazier is that the police spent 6 months looking for her, the average search is at least a month, maybe even two but with Cara it was 6.”
“That is odd.” replied Liyah.
“Why would the police spend that long looking for her?” Hanna asked curiously.
“Well her parents must have insisted she was somewhere in London, perhaps they paid them a lot of money.”
“Good point,” said Spencer, smiling.”Hey it’s getting late so maybe we should end this and call it a day.”
“Yeah we should.” agreed Liyah putting away her book and quill.
“I still can’t believe she’s really gone.” said Hanna solemnly.
“I know,” said Liyah, picking up her mirror.”She’s gone but she’s everywhere.”
The girls on the other side of the mirror nodded their heads.
“Don’t worry guys.” said Spencer, breaking the silence.”We will find out the truth, it’s just going to take some time-”
“ Spencer’s right and with school we won’t have as much time as we used to.” sighed Liyah collapsing into her bed. The sun had now fully disappeared, the once half golden sky was full pitch black sky, the moon and the stars lighting up the sky.
“I’ll call you guys tomorrow.”
“Bye Liyah.” said Spencer gleefully
“Bye Lulu!” said Hanna before sprinting to her bed.
“Bye guys!” replied Liyah happily. The two girls disappeared from the glass and Liyah was left alone, her reflection keeping her company until she placed the mirror in her draw, the slider creaking as she closed it. Liyah slumped into her bed again, today was a long day and today being Cara’s birthday didn't help either.Liyah thought about Cara’s last birthday when she was alive and how they would always celebrate it on the last day of the summer as her birthday was during the first day back at school. Her favourite flavour of cake was chocolate with lots of cream, she loved clothes, accessories and anything that makes a girl feel pretty, as well as fashion magazines like vogue and teen vogue, her favourite bands were The Backstreet Boys and Oasis as well as Mariah Carey. Cara was the epitome of every teenage girl, great taste, great style and overall just a great person.

She didn’t deserve this - it doesn’t matter how she died- She was a good person , an innocent person and she was wrongfully killed.
“Don’t worry Cara.” said Liyah out loud. “You will be avenged, I’ll make sure of it.”
***

The sun rose up from the horizon , shining over Hogwarts Castle. The birds sang their usual morning song as many students started to get ready for the day and made their way down to breakfast in the Great Hall and helped themselves to some delicious breakfast.

The Ravenclaw Trio made their way down the stairs and into the Hall. Liyah and Penelope laughing as Jacquie told them all about the dream she had last night.

“I’m telling you!” exclaimed Jacquie sitting down at the table, Liyah and Penelope sitting on the opposite side. “I ate a cupcake and I started going all wonky- I think they were filled with drugs!”
Liyah giggled at Jacquies comment - “Your dreams are so random”
“I know!” replied Jacquie. “Ooo waffles!”
The Gryffindors were also on the table with the Ravenclaw Trio, the rest of the Gryffindors listening to Jacquies strange dream.
“Cupcakes don’t have ‘drugs’ in them Jacquie.” corrected Katie.
“Well mine did!” replied Jacquie in an instant. “And it made me go all wonky!”

Soon many other students started to fill up the Hall, the Head Girl- Natasha Lisbon who was also from Ravenclaw house, made her way to the table, her arms filled with beautiful envelopes with names written in blue calligraphy.
“Penelope Clearwater and Liyah Sharp?” asked Natasha looking round the table.
“That’s us!” replied Penelope excitedly. Yay they're here finally! Liyah smiled and waved at the Head Girl with the pretty envelopes.
“Congratulations, you get to participate in this year's Ravenclaw 4th Year Annual Challenge.” “ And here are your envelopes for this month's task, good luck!”
“Thanks Natasha!” said Liyah happily, “Oh and congrats on making Head Girl by the way.”
“You're welcome!” replied Natasha. “And thank you!” Finally a younger year actually noticed thought Natasha as she disappeared from the table.
“OMG you guys get to take part in The Challenge that’s so cool!” said Angelina cheerfully. The rest of them nodded in agreement.
“Well aren't you going to open it?” said Percy, pushing away his plate. The two Ravenclaws opened their gorgeous envelopes, Oliver watched as Liyah carefully took out the parchment , reading what it said in the letter, another piece of paper also dropped from the letter which Liyah ignored as her eyes were glued to the piece of parchment in her hand. That must be the task he thought.

Dear Liyah Sharp,

Congratulations, you have been chosen to participate in the 4th Year Annual Challenge. Throughout the year, you will be given a task/quest to complete every few months. Once the task is completed, you will receive an enchanted star, which you will collect throughout the year but be warned- the winner is not determined by who collects the most stars, rather who finishes the task in less than 48 hours, towards the end of the year three candidates will be chosen to complete one final challenge and the winner will receive a prize as well as the position of Prefect in their 5th year. We have also enclosed this month’s challenge in this letter

Good luck! And remember-
Stars don't just disappear, they keep blazing even when the night is over.

Professor Flitwick

“So what does it say?” asked Katie in curiosity.
“That every month or so we’ll be given a task to complete in at least 48 hours and once you complete you get an enchanted star.” replied Liyah repeating what she had just read, she looked down at her spot to see another envelope with the same design - “Oh this must be it.”
“Let’s open it together,” said Penelope excitedly. “Ready.”
The group watched in anticipation as the two girls ripped the letter apart, Liyah opened the piece of parchment.

September Challenge:
Go to a place in the castle you rarely visit.
You have 48 hours to complete and 1 enchanted star to collect
Good luck

“Go to a place in the castle you rarely visit,” said Liyah, reading the parchment.
“That’s it .” said Alicia coldly.
“Mhm” replied Liyah.
“Yes!” said Penelope excitedly. “I get to create a new spell!”
“Now that’s more exciting!” replied Alicia pointing at Penelope’s letter.
A place I rarely visit thought Liyah,this should be interesting.

A group of second year Gryffindor’s came towards the table, two of them looked exactly alike, with the same colour hair as Percy’s, the other had long hair that reached his ears and a charm bracelet which read “Mischief Managed”
“Good morning Percival!” said one of the twins
“How did you sleep Percival?” said the other in the same tone, the three of them giggled while ‘Percival’ rolled his eyes.
“I told you to stop calling me that!” addressed Percy, annoyed at his twin brother’s anitics.
“We can’t help it, Percy.” replied one of the twins.
“It’s who we are,” said the other. “But we know you love us deep down.”
Liyah smiled at the twins, their funny she thought, those must be Percy’s brothers Jackson told her about. Fred, who had just noticed Liyah’s presence, lifted his eyebrows, trying to recall if he knew her.

“I didn’t know you guys adopted a Ravenclaw.” said Fred pointing at Liyah, George and Lee also noticed, staring at the others to give them answers to their statement.

“Oh so you noticed!” replied Angelina. “Guys this is Liyah, Liyah Sharp!”
“Hello!” said Liyah happily.
“So you're the great Queen who smacked Marcus Flint in the face,” said George excitedly. Lee and Fred also glanced at each other in excitement-
“Well.” expressed Fred puffing out his chest. “It's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance, your highness.” Fred bowed, the rest of them following along.
“It’s a pleasure to meet you too!” replied Liyah,”But as ‘your Queen’ I command you to tell me your names.”
“I'm Fred - and this is George.”
“No - I’m Fred and your George!” said ‘George’ with a slight smirk on his face.
“No I am!”
“No it’s -
“Oh just pack it in guys! Said the boy with the long hair. “Hi I’m Lee, Lee Jordan.”
“Nice to meet you Jordan!” replied Liyah cheerfully. “I like your hair, it's very stylish.” Lee smiled at Liyah’s complement.
“Thanks Sharp.” said Lee smiling, he glanced at the piece of parchment in Liyah’s hands “What’s that?”
“Oh - it’s my task for this month.” explained Liyah.
“Liyah and Penelope have been picked for The Challenge.” explained Angelina facing the trio.
“Ohhhhh!” grimaced Fred. “You mean the smarty pants challenge.”
“ You call it the ‘smarty pants’ challenge but really you wish you got picked.” teased Penelope showing off her envelope.

Liyah pushed away her plate,putting the envelope inside her bag. She was happy that she was picked for the Challenge, it would give her something new to focus on every few months. I can’t wait to tell mum, she’d be really pleased thought Liyah smiling.

“You look happy Liyah.” said a familiar Scottish voice opposite her. Oliver put down his goblet and folded his arms on the table.
“Well I am happier than yesterday.” commented Liyah meeting his gaze.
“I can tell.” replied Oliver in the same tone. “We didn’t get a chance to talk yesterday at dinner, did we?”
“Yeah it’s true , we didn’t.” said Liyah flipping her hair towards her side. “It’s potions this morning, excited?”
“Now those two words do not belong in the same sentence.” Oliver replied in an instant.
***
The group entered Professor Snape’s Potion classroom, it was separated with large wooden tables where the students would sit and take notes, while the other side had cauldron stands which black in colour with it’s own mixing wand, the ingredients cabinet situated on the left hand side of Professor Snape's desk. Liyah sat down at an open seat, the rest of her friends sitting also sitting in open seats, Liyah began taking out her books for the lesson when a finger tapped on her shoulder.

“Did you get in?”
It was James , who had the pretty envelope in his hand.
“Yes!” exclaimed Liyah . “And so did Penelope.”
“Awesome - I get to go into the forest and find a certain creature.”
“You should ask Rosie to come with you - she’s an expert on animals.”
“Guess who’s also got in?” said James solemnly
“Who?” asked Penelope, putting down her books. James pointed at the group of Ravenclaws sitting at the front of the class, the group turning round to get a good look at who James was pointing at. Oliver Percy and Jackson doing the same. The group couldn’t believe their eyes - Veronica Abrams was holding a Challenge acceptance envelope - boasting about how she got into the Challenge.
“You're telling me that thing got accepted!?” said Alicia coldly. “ we are never going to hear the end of it”
Oliver looked over at Liyah who had turned round quickly from the sight
“How did she get in?” asked Oliver, loud enough for the rest to hear, still close to Liyah.
“It’s a random process so anyone in our year can be picked.” explained Liyah. “Even Abrams.” Liyah looked towards the floor, if Abrams is in challenge I have to watch my back and make sure doesn’t even make it into the leaderboard, but that will be impossible. Liyah tried to come up with master plans on how to eliminate Abrams from the Challenge, but none of them would work-

“Hey.” Liyah looked up from the floor, It was Oliver, “We’re here for you . I’m here for you . Without even realising Oliver fingers brushed against Liyah’s but neither of them budged, instead they both smiled,staring deep into each others eyes like no one was in the room .

“Alright now settle down class.” Professor Snape announced as he sashayed his way in front of the class, his long black cape following him . does he not own any other piece of clothing Liyah thought.

“Gather round please i don’t have all day!” he huffed . The class groaned as every year, instead of getting to choose their own partners, Professor Snape would assign them with people , usually it was with the people which they hated, something which Professor Snape found very amusing.

“Now when I call out your name , you and your partners will stand near an open cauldron until I give further instructions.”

One by one, Snape gave out the list of names , Hopermann and Davies, Kwan and Goldstien, Spearwood and Bell, Weasley and Clearwater, Wood and Spinnet - Liyah watched as her friends were all paired with each other, Swinton also taking notice- “It’s probably us together than.” he whispered happily. “Snape has put nearly everyone boy girl,boy girl.

“Sharp and Abrams.” croaked Snape. Liyah’s heart sank. Abrams as her partner. Why, Merlin why? Should I jump out the window? Brew a coughing potion , smack Professor Snape in the face, C’mon Liyah think, anything to get out of this mess.

“Forgive me Professor - did you say ‘Sharp’ and Abrams?”
“Yes.” replied Professor Snape coldly. “I did.” Abrams was flabbergasted . How can she work with her?
“Professor - you can’t do that - you have to give me someone else - I can't work with her.” scoffed Abrams, giving Liyah a nasty look. Attitude much, thought Oliver staring at the commotion , give it a rest you Goblin , no one wants to work with you either thought Liyah. Abrams carried on the argument, but Snape didn’t budge. “You get what you're
given, Abrams.” he said sharply. “If you must know I paired you up with Sharp because even though she wasn’t here to take the exams because of unfortunate circumstances she produced the highest score in the year,the best I’ve seen since I started teaching - Now go - don’t dawdle.”
Liyah and Abrams made it to an open cauldron, next to Alicia and Oliver, the two Gryffindors trying their best to cheer up Liyah, but it was too late, Snape had started the lesson - a fire draught- a concoction where if person where to light a fire without the use of a wand - “Ingredients are on the shelves and the instructions are on your desk - now off you go”

The class began to brew their potions - the sound of cauldrons bubbling and spitting filled the ominous classroom, Liyah grabbed her dark red ribbon from her robe, tying her hair so it gets out of her face so she could focus at the task in front of her, the ribbon had belonged to her grandmother which was passed down to her mother and finally to her. Liyah never really understood why she had this habit, but whenever her hair was tied up, the mind felt at ease. Liyah observed the instructions in front of her , her brain taking note of each step, we’ll start backwards she thought - that way nothing is missed out .
Abrams - who was less bothered about what they were doing aimlessly chopped some beetroot, Liyah glanced at the half cut beetroot.

“ We should start with making the potion water - the best way to make a draught is to start backwards- so water first ,ingredients last.”
“And why would I listen to you” scoffed Abrams, putting down the half cut beetroot.
“Snape put you with me for a reason.” “And he won’t move you anytime soon.”
“So..” Liyah continued “You might as well put in the effort and get a decent grade even with my help.”

To Liyah’s surprise, Abrams did listen to her, half an hour had passed. Liyah and Abrams' cauldron was filled with a dark red substance with balls of fire knots bouncing on the surface. Professor Snape tested the concoction - the class waiting in anticipation. Oliver watched Liyah’s face as she had her eyes sternly placed where her cauldron was, please work please work Liyah muttered watching Snape place a leaf into the cauldron.

BANG!
The leaf had caught fire, Professor Snape quickly placed the fire blazing leaf into a pot of water- the leaf disintegrating as it was dropped.
“Well done Miss Sharp and Abrams- 5 points each for Ravenclaw.”
“Well done Liyah!” said Katie happily.
“Thanks Katie!” replied Liyah.
“That was brilliant Bunny!” said Jackson. “And you got Abrams to listen for once that’s double cool!”
“ I know!” replied Liyah cheerfully. “It did feel cool being in control for once.”
“We saw- you were like an army general telling how to chop the ingredients and stuff.” insisted Penelope
“Yeah definitely.” agreed Jacquie.
Liyah giggled at her friend's comments. Was she really that good?
“Well done Liyah!” said a familiar Scottish voice. Liyah turned round to find Oliver smiling - the rest of the group giggling in the background as the two love birds immersed in conversation.
“Do they ever stop talking?” asked Jacquie peeking in ‘the couples’ direction.
“ I know right!” replied Penelope.
“Ever since they met each other it’s like no one else is in the room and it’s just them.” said Katie admiring them. “It’s sweet really.”
***
Rosie and Micheal come up to Liyah during break, apologising for not being there when she needed it “WERE-SO-SORRY-WE-WON'T-LEAVE-YOU-EVER-AGAIN” cried Rosie in a rather fast manner to the point where nobody understood her rambling.
“Geez Rosie let the poor girl breathe.” said Micheal coming up behind her. “Hi Liyah, like Rosie said we're really sorry.”
“No it’s okay.” replied Liyah. “The Gryffidors stood up for me.”
“Especially a certain Gryffindor.” laughed Rosie, skipping away.
“Y’know- sometimes i have no idea what she’s talking about- but somehow she’s always right!”
***

It was nearly the end of the day, Liyah was walking out of the Library ready to make her way back to the common room . Half the day is gone she thought and there’s no enchanted star, surely exploring the astronomy tower and the dungeons would be enough. Liyah had found herself back into the dungeons , aimlessly walking around like a lost puppy, but she wasn’t really lost, she was just looking for something. Liyah walked along the stone floor, there's gotta be place i’ve not been to-

(Insert lovely piano music- preferably the tune from the victorious song- Tell me that you love me)
What was that? Thought Liyah, the lovely tune of the piano filled the cold of the dungeons as she tiptoed her way through. Liyah turned through countless bends and down countless stairs until she finally made it - an old sign hung from the entrance of the room - The undercroft
Sitting at the piano was none other than Lee Jordan - the boy she had met at breakfast.
“That’s a nice tune.” said Liyah loudly for Lee to hear. Lee turned to face Liyah with a smile
“Thanks,” he replied.
“What is this place?”
“This is The Undercroft - Where people come to die!” He began to play a dramatic tune on the piano. Liyah rolled her eyes playfully, classic Jordan she thought.
“I’m joking - it’s like a secret place in the dungeons - it used to be a duelling sanctuary or a training area - but now it’s just a place where I play the piano.”
“The trouble is - i’ve been working on this song , i have the verses i just don’t have catchy chorus and everyone knows-”
“You can’t have a song without a chorus.” chimed in Liyah.
“Yeah!” agreed Jordan.
“Maybe I can help.” said Liyah walking towards the piano.
“Y’know how to play the piano?.”
“Huh, do I know how to play the piano?” she said mockingly . She sat down next to Jordan , cracking her fingers to prepare for her performance. Slowly Liyah’s fingers followed the black and white keys- playing a classical tune with a hint of modern day music. Jordan was flabbergasted. Liyah smiled as she finished her song , abruptly lifting her fingers from the keyboard.
“I guess you do know how to play!.” said Lee cheerfully. Liyah giggled.
“So piano boy.” exclaimed Liyah. “Do I have your permission to finish the song?”
“You certainly do!”

Jordan began to sing the verses of the song. Liyah taking note of each chord and melody, repeating the verses in her head,
“Do you have something in mind?” inquired Jordan, stopping the music.
“Play the first verse again.” replied Liyah in an instant - “Accio microphone!”
“Yes ma’am!” agreed Jordan.And he set off, playing the melody for a second time,
This part is just Jordan singing and Liyah finishing it off - I’m not going to put the lyrics in as this song will be used later in the story so - Liyah sings the chorus- it’s beautiful of course - Jordan is star struck ( No pun intended) .

“Tell me that you love me anyway.”
“Wow!” whispered Jordan. “You came up with that all by yourself- How?”
“Same way you came up with the verses.” replied Liyah. Jordan smiled - this girl's amazing. Just then a golden light came in front of Liyah and Jordan causing Jordan to jump, Liyah remained perfectly still. There a ruby star appeared, floating in the air.
“What is that?” asked Jordan in shock.
“It’s the enchanted Star!” - “ I’ve completed the first task!”
“Now way!” exclaimed Jordan - “Well done Liyah.” Jordan threw his arms around Liyah, Liyah hugged him back.
“Wait.” said Jordan, breaking from the hug.” I thought that you had to visit a place you rarely visited.”
“I understand now!” chimed Liyah. “The task was to go to a place I rarely visit but the task is like puzzles - you're supposed to figure it out during the day.
“The task was not going to a place on my own - it was about finding a friend to share the place with!”
“Now that’s smart - i could have never figured that out.”