The Daughter of Valancaire

I woke up with the soft light of dawn streaming through the window, casting long shadows across the Ravenclaw dormitory. The peaceful silence was interrupted only by the soft sounds of my roommates stirring as they started to wake. Samantha Dale, my housemate, was already up and getting ready, but I stayed still for a few extra moments, staring at the ceiling, lost in my thoughts.

Hogwarts was finally real, and yet, it felt like everything was new and unfamiliar. Yesterday’s Sorting Ceremony still hung in my mind—the faces of my brothers, the weight of their gazes, the strange, burning pull I had felt when I met that boy’s eyes. But there was something else too, something nagging at the back of my mind. It was like pieces of a puzzle I hadn’t yet figured out, fragments of memories and feelings that I couldn’t fully make sense of.

I sighed, sitting up and running a hand through my tangled hair. I needed to focus. I was in Hogwarts, and it was time to get used to this new world, even if everything still felt a little out of place.

As I swung my legs over the side of the bed, I spotted a small, familiar owl perched on the window sill, fluttering its wings gently. At first, I thought I might be imagining it, but then I saw the small piece of parchment tied to its leg.

It was an owl—I assumed Jace’s owl.

I took a deep breath as I untied the note. It was written in a neat, familiar handwriting.

Jessa,

I’m sorry I wasn’t there to meet you this morning. I got caught up with some things, but I’ll meet you in the library after your first class. There’s something I need to talk to you about. Please don’t worry. I’ll explain everything.

- Jace

A small, apologetic smile tugged at the corners of my lips. I tucked the letter into my pocket, feeling a flutter of warmth in my chest. I hadn’t realized how much I had missed my brothers until now, how much I wanted to reconnect with them, to find some kind of stability in the midst of this whirlwind of new experiences.

"Guess I’ll be meeting him in the library," I whispered to myself, wondering what he needed to talk about.

I pushed the thoughts aside for now, focusing on getting ready for my first class. The excitement of starting my first real day at Hogwarts was enough to chase away any lingering unease. But that letter from Jace stayed with me, tucked safely in my pocket as a quiet reminder that, even in this vast, magical world, I wasn’t alone.

Samantha was already waiting for me, her cheerful voice pulling me back to reality. "You coming, or are you planning to sleep the whole day away?"

I smiled, shaking my head. "I’m up, I’m up. Let’s go."

But even as I hurried through the morning routine and made my way to breakfast with her, my thoughts kept drifting back to Jace’s letter. I couldn't help but wonder what he wanted to talk about.

---

After breakfast, Samantha and I parted ways as we headed toward our first classes. I felt a flutter of excitement mixed with nerves as I walked alongside her, the bustle of students filling the corridors. My first class at Hogwarts—Charms. I couldn’t help but feel a rush of anticipation mixed with nerves as I walked.

Samantha, already a fifth-year, had a much more confident stride as she led the way. I found myself focusing on the comforting rhythm of my footsteps, trying to settle my nerves. But just as I rounded a corner, I was caught off guard by a familiar voice calling my name.

"Jessa!"

I turned and saw Professor Weasley, her bright red hair easily spotted in the crowd of students. She was walking quickly, catching up with me with a warm smile.

"Professor Weasley!" I said, slightly startled.

She chuckled lightly, slowing down as she reached me. “Good to see you, Jessa. How’s your first day treating you so far?”

I smiled a little, feeling my tension ease just by her presence. “It’s been a lot to take in, but... good. I’m excited.”

Her smile softened. “I’m glad to hear that. Listen, I wanted to ask if you could meet me once your classes are finished for the day. I have something to discuss with you.”

I nodded quickly, curiosity pricking at me. “Of course. What about?”

She gave me a knowing look, one that seemed to suggest she wasn’t quite ready to share everything. “I’ll explain later. After your last class today. Don’t worry, it’s nothing bad. Just a little chat.”

I had no idea what she could want to talk about, but I was too intrigued to let it bother me. I gave her a quick nod. "I’ll meet you in my free time. I’ll head straight to you after class."

"Perfect," she said, giving me a reassuring smile. "Now, don't want you to be late for Charms. Off you go!"

I gave her a small wave before turning toward the classroom. But the moment I stepped into the hall, the excitement I’d been feeling earlier gave way to something else: confusion. 

Hogwarts, with its twisting corridors and endless staircases, was nothing like I had imagined. I had read all the books—studied every inch of the Hogwarts map until I could practically draw it blindfolded. I’d even memorized the pathways to most classrooms. But for the love of all my ancestors, I still managed to get lost.

I passed a couple of students in the hall, looking for signs or a familiar face to guide me. The map had promised me Charms was only two hallways away... but nothing looked right. My heart started to race as I passed yet another spiral staircase and found myself at yet another dead end. 

"Great," I muttered to myself, glancing at the clock. I didn’t have much time before the bell rang.

Finally, after a few more wrong turns and deep breaths to keep my frustration from bubbling over, I stumbled into the right corridor. My pace quickened as I turned another corner, and then—there it was, the classroom door in front of me. Charms.

I caught my breath, standing there for a moment as I steadied myself. There was no way I was going to be late to my first class.

Just as I was about to enter the classroom, I heard a voice behind me.

"Hey, you’re Jessa, right?" 

I turned around to find a girl in Gryffindor robes standing there. She had short, dark hair and a friendly smile, her bright brown eyes watching me curiously.

"Yeah, I’m Jessa," I replied, smiling back.

She nodded toward the classroom. "I noticed you standing there. The seat beside me is open if you want to sit."

I blinked, surprised. "Oh! Thanks. That’s really kind of you."

"No problem at all," she said with a grin. "I’m Natty, by the way. Natsai Onai. Fifth year. I’m sure we’ll be in a lot of classes together, especially with your house."

I smiled warmly. "Nice to meet you, Natty."

"Likewise!" she said brightly. "Come on, grab the seat."

I nodded gratefully, taking the offered seat beside her. It felt good to be welcomed, and I was glad to have someone to sit with, especially on my first day.

Just then, I heard a voice calling my name from the front of the classroom.

"Ah, Jessa! Glad you could make it. We’re just about to begin."

I looked up to see Professor Ronen standing at the front of the room. He wore a striking purple robe that shimmered slightly under the light, his sharp features complemented by the confidence with which he carried himself. His gaze was warm as he greeted me, making me feel just a bit less out of place.

"Thanks, Professor Ronen," I said, offering him a smile as I settled in.

_________

The moment the bell rang, signaling the start of the class, Professor Ronen stepped forward, his striking purple robes shimmering in the dim light of the classroom. He was tall and commanding, yet his manner was warm and approachable. His voice carried effortlessly across the room as he began to speak.

"Welcome, everyone. As fifth-years, you are about to face some of the most important challenges in your magical education. This year, we will focus on mastering spells that require not only skill but precision. One of the first charms we will revisit is the *Accio* Charm."

My heart raced. I’d read and learned about the *Accio* Charm in several of the Hogwarts books I’d studied, but hearing it mentioned in the context of a class made it feel even more real. The *Accio* Charm, the Summoning Charm, was a powerful and versatile spell that could bring objects to you with a flick of the wand. To think that we’d be perfecting it in our fifth year made my palms itch with excitement.

"Some of you may already be familiar with it," Professor Ronen continued, pacing slowly in front of the class. "It’s often one of the first charms students learn to use in their early years, but we will take it further this year. The goal is to perform the charm with greater control and precision. For your homework, you’ll be asked to summon objects of varying weights from across the room—but be warned, you’ll need both skill and concentration."

The room shifted slightly as students straightened in their seats, eager for the lesson to begin. The idea of perfecting *Accio*—a charm that could save time, improve efficiency, or even act as a last-ditch defense—was certainly enticing. I couldn’t wait to see what we’d be doing today.

"We’ll begin with some practice," Professor Ronen continued, his eyes sweeping over the room. "You’ll each get a chance to summon a simple object first. Focus on your intent, and remember: the stronger your will, the more effectively the spell will work."

As Professor Ronen moved to set up a few objects on a long table at the front of the room, I noticed Natty glance at me, her smile warm and encouraging. "You’ve got this, Jessa," she whispered. "I’m sure we’ll be great at this."

I smiled back, grateful for her confidence. But even though I felt ready, I couldn’t shake the unease that had settled into my chest after the Sorting Ceremony. My thoughts kept drifting to the strange sensation I’d felt when I locked eyes with that boy from Slytherin.

I turned my gaze toward the back of the room, where he sat. The same boy who had stared at me during the Sorting Ceremony, his eyes intense and unreadable. This time, his gaze was fixed on me once again. I couldn’t look away, though I wasn’t sure why. And then—just as I thought I might turn back to the front—he gave me a small, almost imperceptible smile.

The air around me felt heavier, my breath a little shorter. What was it about him? Why did it feel like he was trying to say something without speaking?

"Everything alright?" Natty asked softly, noticing my distraction.

I nodded quickly, though my thoughts were elsewhere. "Yeah, just… lost in thought," I said, though I wasn’t sure if I was convincing anyone, least of all myself.

Just then, Professor Ronen clapped his hands, drawing everyone's attention. "Alright, everyone, time to put theory into practice. One by one, I want you to stand, point your wands at your chosen objects, and with a clear command, summon them to you."

My heart raced, my focus finally shifting from the boy to the task at hand. I was determined to get this right. I may have been distracted, but I wouldn’t let that affect my magic. 

But even as I prepared to stand and give the *Accio* charm my full attention, I couldn’t help but wonder: What was it about that boy from Slytherin? Why did I feel such a strange connection to him already?

---

Professor Ronen’s voice faded as I centered myself. I stood tall, the *Accio* charm already clear in my mind. I had read about this charm in several books my father had provided during the few weeks we spent working so hard to catch me up. After everything that had happened, and the long, lost years, those weeks were a blur of lessons, trying to regain what I’d lost. Accio was one of the first charms he’d taught me, not just from the books, but in the quiet moments after hours of study—he would guide me, showing me how to focus and channel my energy, teaching me the right way to use it.

He’d always said it was one of the most basic charms, but even so, it took concentration. You had to focus on the object, visualize it moving toward you, and speak the incantation with intent.

“It’s not just about waving your wand, Jessa,” he’d said, his voice calm, yet firm. “It’s about intent, about truly wanting the object to come to you. You have to believe it’ll work, and then let it happen.”

I took a deep breath, standing up a little straighter. His words felt like a whisper in my mind as I raised my wand. I could still see the way he’d stood beside me those few weeks—his encouraging presence, the quiet way he’d always believed I could catch up, even when I felt lost. I might not have had a lot of time to perfect everything, but I had the basics

I could feel the weight of everyone’s attention around me, but I blocked it out, focusing on the ink bottle on the table. It wasn’t far, but it might as well have been across the room.

I raised my wand, the words on the tip of my tongue.

“*Accio ink bottle.*”

The bottle trembled, then wobbled slightly before coming to an abrupt stop, just shy of my hand. It wasn’t quite the elegant pull I’d hoped for, but it had worked. A success, though it wasn’t perfect. I took a breath and steadied my resolve. This was just the beginning.

A few more tries, and the charm was slowly falling into place. I focused harder each time, visualizing the object moving with more clarity, more precision. With each casting, my wand’s movement felt smoother, the words more sure in my mind.

“*Accio ink bottle.*”

This time, the bottle slid across the desk, perfectly landing in my palm. A small win, but a win all the same. My lips curved into a smile, feeling the satisfaction of progress.

A few more tries, and now, the spell was becoming more reliable. The next time I cast it, an eraser flew gently into my hand. Then a quill. Then a parchment. Each time, it was more controlled, the object falling perfectly into my grasp. My hand seemed to guide it instinctively now, as if the charm and I were finally in sync.

I couldn't help but glance at Natty, who was watching me intently, her eyes wide with mild surprise.

“*That’s incredible! You’re doing great! It took me ages to get my *Accio* anywhere near that good,*” she said with a grin, clearly impressed.

I felt a surge of pride at her words, my heart warming with the unexpected praise. Natty’s confidence was obvious, but hearing her say that made me feel like maybe, just maybe, I could really fit in here at Hogwarts.

Professor Ronen moved down the row, giving brief words of feedback to each student. His face lit up when he passed by me, a hint of approval in his eyes as he watched the ink bottle finally settle in my palm.

“Excellent work, Miss Valancaire,” he said with a nod. “You’re getting the hang of it already. You have a real knack for this. Keep practicing, and soon enough, you’ll be able to summon objects with ease.”

I nodded, taking his words to heart. It was just the beginning, and I knew I had so much more to learn. But today, it felt like a real victory. One spell at a time.

---

Just as I was beginning to feel settled, Professor Ronen clapped his hands together, drawing everyone's attention. His voice rang out, a playful gleam in his eyes.

“Now, where’s the fun in only using this charm in the classroom?” he said, his smile widening. “Let’s take it outside for a bit. Come on, everyone, gather your things. We’re going to the courtyard.”

A murmur of excitement spread through the class. Professor Ronen’s enthusiasm was contagious, and I couldn’t help but feel a spark of curiosity. He was always full of surprises, and I had a feeling this would be another one.

“I call this game *Summoner’s Court!*” he continued, as the class began to file out of the room. “A bit of friendly competition to see who can use *Accio* the best.”

With that, we all hurried down the hall, past the grand staircase, and out into the fresh air of the courtyard. The autumn breeze swept through the space, rustling the leaves of the trees and sending a chill through the air, but it was a welcome change from the warm classroom.

Professor Ronen led us to a large open area where a set of small obstacles—wooden posts and targets—were arranged in a makeshift playing field. Some of the other students looked around, clearly wondering what we were supposed to do next.

“Alright,” Professor Ronen called, “here’s how it works. You’ll use *Accio* to pull your target toward you, but it’s not as simple as it sounds. Each target will be in a different location, and you’ll need to strategize. It’s not just about the power of your spell—it’s about control and precision.”

————-

The game was unlike anything I’d expected. We’d moved away from the classroom and into the courtyard, where the students had gathered to watch. Professor Ronen stood off to the side, looking more like an enthusiastic referee than a teacher as he explained the rules.

"Summoners Court is all about accuracy and control," he said, his voice carrying over the chatter. "The goal is simple: Use the *Accio* charm to target specific spots in the arena. The points are awarded based on how accurately you summon the designated target to the marked area. Whoever scores the most points wins the game!"

I felt my pulse quicken. While it seemed straightforward, the stakes were higher than in the classroom. The pressure was already building.

"Each of you will take turns summoning," Professor Ronen continued. "The farther the distance, the higher the points. If you hit the target precisely where it’s marked, you get the full score. But if it’s off even a little, you lose points. Let’s see who’s really mastered the *Accio* charm!"

I was paired with Natty, and we exchanged a look. She smiled at me, her competitive spirit clear in her eyes. "Ready for this?" she asked.

I nodded. "Let’s do it."

Professor Ronen called out, and the game began.

Natty went first, her wand flicking expertly. "Accio!" she said, and a target at the far end of the courtyard—a large stone—began to rumble, moving toward her. It landed neatly in the center of a marked spot with a satisfying *thud*. Professor Ronen raised his eyebrows in approval.

"Five points for perfect placement!" he called.

Natty looked at me, eyes gleaming. "Your turn."

I swallowed nervously, focusing on the target at the opposite end of the courtyard. I could feel the weight of everyone's eyes on me, but I didn’t let it distract me. I had practiced this before, in the safety of my own room, and my father had taught me the basics. I could do this.

Taking a deep breath, I raised my wand. "Accio!" I said, my voice steady but tense.

The stone moved, but not as swiftly as I’d hoped. It skidded slightly off course before landing in the area I had targeted, but not in the center. It was close—very close—but not quite perfect.

Professor Ronen gave a small nod. "Three points. Still a good effort."

I sighed inwardly, but Natty just grinned. "You’ll get it next time," she said, as I readied myself for another round.

We went back and forth, the game building in intensity with each throw. I was learning how to control the *Accio* charm better, and Natty’s accuracy was formidable. But every time I summoned something, I felt myself getting more confident. The thrill of the competition pushed me forward, and soon enough, I was starting to hit closer to the marked spots.

It came down to the final round. We were both tied, each having scored five points. The last target was a smaller, more difficult one—a bright red flag perched high above the courtyard. It was at a considerable height, and the mark was set directly underneath it. Whoever could get their object closest to the flag would win.

My heart pounded in my chest. I looked at Natty, who was already focusing intently, her wand in hand.

"Ready?" she asked, her voice quiet but confident.

"Ready," I replied, trying to steady my breath.

Professor Ronen gave the signal. "Begin!"

Natty’s *Accio* was the first, and I watched as the flag shifted in the air, barely missing the mark and landing on the ground just beside it. She groaned in frustration, but I could see the determination in her eyes. She wasn’t out of it yet.

Now it was my turn.

I raised my wand, focusing every bit of energy on the target above. I could feel the *Accio* building, just like I had practiced it. "Accio!" I said with more force than before.

The red flag jerked in the air, and I held my breath. It hurtled toward me, and—this time—I knew I’d aimed it perfectly. The flag landed directly on the mark with a sharp *thud*.

"Well done!" Professor Ronen called, raising his hands. "Miss Valancaire wins this round with a perfect hit!"

The courtyard erupted into applause, and I couldn’t help but smile. It wasn’t just about winning—it was the thrill of the challenge, the joy of finally mastering the spell enough to win. 

Natty was grinning too. "You did it!" she said, her eyes gleaming. "That was impressive."

"Thanks," I replied, feeling a rush of pride.

As the students clapped, I caught something out of the corner of my eye—someone standing at the edge of the crowd. The boy from the Sorting Ceremony. The one who had stared at me with such intensity.

He was watching me again, his eyes fixed on me as if he were studying my every move. I could feel his gaze, and for a split second, it made me falter, like I was being scrutinized in a way I didn’t fully understand.

And then, to my surprise, he smiled. It was small, but it was there—a gentle, approving smile that made my heart skip a beat. I wasn’t sure what to make of it. Slytherins and Ravenclaws weren’t exactly known for mingling, especially not like this. Why would he be cheering for me?

I quickly turned my attention back to Natty, but the odd feeling lingered. It wasn’t the first time he’d seemed interested, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that this boy—Sebastian Sallow—was more than just a passing figure at Hogwarts.

Still, I pushed the thought aside for now. I had just won a game, after all. It was a small victory, but it was mine.

_____-

I waved goodbye to Natty as she headed off to Arithmancy, wishing her good luck. “See you later!” I called after her, and she flashed me a warm smile before rounding the corner. It was strange how quickly she had become a friend. 

I lingered for a moment in the hallway, feeling the hum of excitement from my first real class at Hogwarts. Charms had gone better than I could’ve expected—I’d made a new friend, I’d won at *Summoner’s Court*, and overall, I was starting to feel like maybe this place wasn’t so overwhelming after all.

But my thoughts were quickly pulled back to the letter I had received earlier. Jace had written me, apologizing for not being able to meet me in the morning. Instead, he’d asked to meet me in the library after my first class. I wasn’t sure what he wanted to talk about, but a part of me couldn’t wait to see him.

My thoughts were all over the place. First class jitters, new friends, and now a meeting with Jace. I was starting to feel the weight of everything at once, but I was determined to handle it.

I headed toward the library, feeling the familiar sense of disorientation that came with trying to navigate Hogwarts. I’d studied the maps of the castle for weeks before coming here, but the corridors always seemed to twist and turn when I least expected it. 

Why was this place so big?

Finally, after what seemed like hours (but was probably only fifteen minutes), I arrived at the library. The doors were massive, towering above me, but I had no problem finding my way inside. The smell of old parchment and the soft murmurs of students studying greeted me like a cozy embrace. 

And then, I spotted him.

Jace sat at a table near the back, a stack of books in front of him. He was so absorbed in his reading that he didn’t notice me at first. I stood there for a moment, just watching him, noticing the subtle changes in his features over the years. The face I remembered had softened, but there was something undeniably familiar about it. The way he held himself... the quiet confidence in his posture.

When he finally looked up, his eyes softened with recognition. 

“Hey,” he said, and I made my way toward him, my heart beating a little faster. 

“Hey,” I replied, and we stood in an awkward silence for a moment. We hadn’t seen each other in so long, and I couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. 

“I didn’t think you’d be here so early,” I said, trying to break the ice.

Jace gave me a small smile. “I figured you might need help getting settled. I know how it is... first day jitters and all that.”

“Yeah...” I said, smiling back. “It’s been a lot to take in, but I’m managing.”

We stood there for a moment, just looking at each other. There was so much I wanted to ask him, but I didn’t know where to start. 

Jace seemed to sense my hesitation, and he spoke before I could find the words.

“I know things are weird,” he said, his voice soft but sincere. “It’s been... a long time. But we’ll figure it out. Together.”

I smiled, feeling the knot in my chest loosen just a little. “I’ve missed you, Jace.”

He looked at me with a softness in his eyes that I hadn’t seen in years. “I know. It’s been too long.”

Before we could say anything more, I heard a familiar voice from behind us.

“Oh, hey!” Samantha—my dormmate from Ravenclaw—was standing at the entrance, waving enthusiastically. “I was just coming to find you. We have the same free period, and I was thinking... since we’ve got some time, would you like to come with me to the Quidditch pitch? I’m planning to watch the trials. Should be fun!”

I turned to Jace, who gave me a small nod, his expression unreadable but somehow reassuring. “Go ahead. I’ll catch you later.”

Grateful for his understanding, I smiled and turned back to Samantha. “That sounds great! Lead the way.”

Samantha grinned and motioned for me to follow her. As we made our way toward the door, I glanced over my shoulder at Jace one last time. His eyes were following me, though his expression was unreadable—something between concern and something else. 

As we walked through the hallways, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. Part of me was elated about the day’s events—*Summoner’s Court*, a new friend, and the chance to reconnect with Jace. But another part of me was still curious about what he had meant when he said we needed to talk. 

I shook the thoughts away for now. There would be time for that later. For now, I was content with the present moment: a new friend, a new beginning, and a whole new adventure waiting just around the corner.

—-----

As Samantha and I walked to the Quidditch pitch, I could feel the excitement in the air. The field was even bigger than I imagined, stretching out into the distance, and it was alive with students—some practicing, others chatting eagerly about the trials. 

“Wow,” I murmured, my eyes wide. “This is incredible.”

Samantha smiled at me, her eyes sparkling. “You’ll love it here. Trust me, watching the trials is a whole different experience. There’s nothing like it when you’re actually at the pitch.”

I nodded, looking around as we made our way to the stands. I had read about Quidditch in books, seen it mentioned in passing in my studies, but the sheer scale of it, the energy of the players, the way the brooms cut through the air—it was overwhelming in the best possible way.

Once we were seated, I scanned the field, trying to get a feel for the atmosphere. The trials were already underway, and I was eager to see what they were all about. But as my eyes shifted across the players, I froze. There, at the front of the group, was a figure who immediately caught my attention. 

He was tall, confident, and had the commanding presence of someone who was used to leading. The other players seemed to be hanging on his every word as he organized them, giving quick instructions with the ease of someone who was well-practiced. 

It didn’t take long for me to recognize him.

Valor. 

I hadn’t expected to see him here—not like this. 

My brother was standing in front of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, taking charge as if he’d been doing it all his life. It was a shock. I knew Valor as my brother, as the brother who swore to  always be by my side, but I didn’t realize he was a Quidditch player, let alone the **captain**. 

Samantha must’ve noticed my confusion because she leaned over, speaking quietly. “Yes your brother is the Gryffindor captain.”

I nodded slowly, still watching him, but I was completely taken aback. “He’s... the captain?” 

I had no idea. It was a part of him I had never seen, or maybe forgotten. But watching him now, the way he carried himself, organized the team, and commanded their attention, it was like I was seeing him for the first time. This wasn’t the brother I remembered, not the one I had spent most of my life with. This Valor was something different. 

Samantha must’ve caught the surprise in my voice. “Yeah, he’s been captain for a while now. He’s great at it.”

I smiled softly, a sense of pride swelling in my chest. I didn’t know Valor’s skill on a broom. I hadn’t realized that Quidditch was such a big part of his life, but watching him now, seeing how easily he took charge, how he motivated the team, it was hard not to feel proud. 

This wasn’t just my brother standing on that pitch—this was a leader. 

“I didn’t know he was so... good at this,” I said, still trying to wrap my head around the sight of him in action. 

Samantha gave me a knowing grin. “Valor’s been playing for years. He’s a natural. Gryffindor’s lucky to have him.”

A warm feeling spread through me at her words, and I found myself watching him a bit longer, trying to understand him in this new context. Valor had always been the one who shared everything with me, the one I could talk to, the one who would make me laugh even when things felt dark. But this Valor—this leader on the Quidditch field—was something else entirely. He was a star. A *Gryffindor* star. 

I couldn’t help the swelling pride in my chest as I watched him command the field. He wasn’t just my brother anymore. He was someone else, someone I was just beginning to discover, and I was starting to see him in a whole new light.

The trials continued, and I remained captivated by the way he guided the team. When they wrapped up, Samantha nudged me gently, sensing I was lost in my thoughts. 

“You want to stay and watch more, or head back?”

I took one last look at Valor, who was still chatting with his team. “No, I think I’m good for now,” I said softly, standing. “But thank you for showing me this. It was... amazing.”

Samantha smiled, her eyes twinkling with understanding. “Of course. I thought you’d like it.”

As we made our way back to the castle, I couldn’t shake the feeling of pride bubbling up inside me. I didn’t remember every detail about Valor, but this was one thing I *knew*—he was good at what he did. He was a leader, a captain. And even though I was still getting to know him again, watching him command the pitch had made me feel something familiar stir within me. 

My brother was a star, and I was starting to see just how bright he really was.

_______

As Samantha and I walked back from the Quidditch pitch, my mind was still spinning from the surprise of seeing Valor on the field. His commanding presence, the ease with which he led his team—it was a side of him I had never known, and it left me feeling a mix of pride and awe. But before I could fully process it, our path crossed with the Slytherin team, who had just finished their practice.

And there, standing near the edge of the pitch, was **Vix**.

My other brother. 

For a moment, I wasn’t sure I was seeing things clearly. But as soon as I recognized him, my heart gave a little jump. There he was, standing with the Slytherin team, his darker blonde hair tousled and his green eyes lighting up as he spotted me. His grin was the same mischievous one I remembered so well. 

"Jessa!" Vix called out, a note of excitement in his voice. "You’re here! What are you doing here? I didn’t expect to see you at a Quidditch pitch."

I grinned back, feeling the years of separation fade away for a moment. "Vix! I didn’t know you were on the Slytherin team!" 

He laughed, his hands slipping into the pockets of his robes. "Oh, I’ve been playing for a while now. You just never got to see it. But right now, we're just wrapping up practice." He eyed the broomsticks leaning against the nearby fence. "Are you going to watch us play?"

Before I could respond, I glanced at the time. Defense Against the Dark Arts was next, and I still had to get to class. 

"Unfortunately, I’ve got Defense Against the Dark Arts now," I said, regret creeping into my voice. "But I’ll catch you at a match sometime, for sure."

Vix grinned wider, his gaze sparkling with mischief. "Ah, no worries. We’ll be playing in no time, and it’ll be interesting for you to see Valor and me on opposite teams. The rivalry between Gryffindor and Slytherin... it’s going to be something this year."

"You and Valor... on different teams? That’ll be something to see." 

Vix’s grin softened, almost nostalgic. "It’s always been a bit of a friendly competition between us, but yeah. Can’t wait to show him what Slytherin's made of this year."

"That’s going to be interesting," I said thoughtfully. "You two—on opposite sides in a match? I can’t imagine what that’ll be like."

Vix chuckled and gave me a playful wink. "Well, maybe you’ll get lucky and catch us in a match soon. We’ll be sure to put on a good show for you."

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me at the idea of seeing my brothers in action. Vix, Valor... they were both so different, yet here I was, getting glimpses of their lives, the things I had missed. It was a strange feeling—pride, excitement, even a little envy—but mostly, I just felt lucky to be here, to be part of this world again.

"Good luck in your match, Vix," I said as I began to turn away, but not before glancing back at him one last time.

"Thanks, sis. See you around!" He waved, then jogged back to his teammates, who were gathering their things.

Samantha and I continued walking away from the pitch, and as we did, I couldn’t help but think about the strange mix of emotions I was feeling. On one hand, seeing Vix out there, so confident and at ease with his teammates, felt like a connection to a past that I could barely remember. On the other hand, seeing him and Valor on opposite teams—competing against each other—was something I had never imagined. It would be interesting, for sure. A challenge. But then again, that was their dynamic, wasn’t it? Two brothers, always trying to one-up each other.

I couldn’t wait to see them both play.

—————

Samantha mentioned that she still had a free period, but I had Defense Against the Dark Arts next. We said our goodbyes, and I felt a little sadness that I wouldn’t be spending more time with her, but the excitement of the next class kept my spirits up.

As we parted ways, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of unease. I had already gotten lost once today, and now I was facing another walk across Hogwarts' sprawling hallways to find the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom.

I let out a soft sigh and braced myself for yet another round of navigating the maze that was this ancient castle. I was sure I’d be fine—eventually—but for now, I was still very much a first-year when it came to finding my way around.

Trying to push aside my worries, I focused on the excitement bubbling inside me. I had never been in a class like this before, and the idea of learning how to defend myself against dark magic was both thrilling and a little intimidating. It was exactly the kind of class I had been hoping for when I thought about coming to Hogwarts.

Finally, after asking three students with bewildered faces for directions, I arrived at the DADA classroom. I could hear faint sounds of raised voices and the clash of magic coming from behind the door. With a deep breath, I opened it.

To my surprise, two boys were duelling right in the middle of the classroom. The first thing I noticed was that one of them was the Slytherin boy—the one I had seen earlier in the Sorting Ceremony, staring at me with that piercing gaze. The other was a Gryffindor student with wild red hair, his face flushed with intensity as they exchanged spells. It was clear they were both serious about this duel, their wands flashing with bursts of light.

"Is that all you've got?" asked the Slytherin boy, his voice dripping with confidence as he flicked his wand effortlessly. He was standing tall, his posture almost arrogant, as if he knew the outcome of this duel was already decided. The red-haired Gryffindor gritted his teeth, his own wand aimed and ready, but it was clear he was struggling to land a hit.

The **Slytherin** boy raised his wand with a sharp flick, his expression unwavering. "Confringo!" he shouted, sending a burst of fire toward the large skeleton of a .. probably a dragon skeleton hanging from the ceiling. The skeleton rumbled ominously as the spell hit, and for a moment, I was certain it was going to come crashing down.

I gasped, my heart racing. The red-haired **Gryffindor** was directly beneath it, and I could see the panic flashing across his face. His eyes widened as the skeleton shook, its bones creaking and groaning in protest. My breath caught in my throat. The last thing I wanted to see was someone getting crushed.

The skeleton shuddered again, teetering dangerously. Just as I thought it was about to fall, Professor Hecat’s voice rang out sharply.

"Levioso!" she called, her wand pointed with precision. A surge of magic filled the room, and the skeleton floated upward, gently coming to a rest. The red-haired Gryffindor boy exhaled in relief, his wide eyes still fixed on the floating bones above him.

Professor Hecat, her usual stern expression hardening, turned toward the two boys, her voice tinged with frustration. "What do you think you’re doing?" she scolded, eyes flicking between the Slytherin and the Gryffindor. "This is not dueling practice! If you two can’t learn to keep your wands in check, we’ll be discussing your behavior with your heads of house."

Both boys stood there sheepishly, their faces flushed with embarrassment. I could feel the tension in the room, even as the professor shifted her attention back to the class.

"Now," she said, her tone lightening, "let’s get to business, shall we? We’ll be focusing on the Levitation Charm, Levioso, today. An essential charm to know—and one that can be helpful in many situations, whether lifting books or saving lives." She eyed the two boys one last time, making sure they knew she was serious.

I wasn’t surprised when she turned to face us and began explaining the intricacies of the charm. Levioso was something I was familiar with. My father had taught me the basics of it during those intense weeks we spent catching me up on my magical education. And, of course, I had read all about it in the books he gave me.

I raised my wand and mimicked the motion I had seen my father do, murmuring the incantation quietly. "Levioso."

A few small books on my desk trembled slightly but didn’t lift. I adjusted my wrist, took a breath, and tried again. This time, the books floated an inch off the desk, hovering in midair.

Professor Hecat nodded approvingly. "Well done, Miss Valancaire," she said, her voice firm but pleased. "Now, everyone—try it again. Focus on the flick of the wrist, and keep your concentration steady."

As I practiced once more, I felt a surge of pride. The charm was simple, but there was something satisfying in seeing the books obey my command.
But even in the midst of my accomplishment, I couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching me. I glanced across the room, and there he was—the **Slytherin boy** from the **Sorting Ceremony**. He was staring at me again, his gaze intense and calculating. And then, just as I caught his eye, a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. It wasn’t a friendly smile—it was knowing, almost challenging.

I quickly turned my attention back to the task at hand, but the sensation lingered. There was something about the way he was watching me that felt intentional. Like he was waiting for something, or perhaps even studying me.

---

Professor Hecat, sensing the shift in focus, clapped her hands sharply, drawing the attention of the students. The classroom fell silent, and she stood, her expression both stern and enthusiastic. "Now that you've all had a chance to practice, I think it’s time to step things up a bit. The best way to master Levioso is through practical application. And what better way to do that than with a duel? Of course," she added with a wink, "I’ll be overseeing it, so no one get any funny ideas."

My stomach twisted at the thought. A duel? I’d never even been in one before.

Professor Hecat's gaze swept over the class, and then—almost as if she had been waiting for this moment—she turned toward me. "Ah, our new fifth year. I believe it's time for you to show us what you've got. How about a duel? Jessa Valancaire, I think you're ready for Sebastian Sallow."

Sebastian Sallow.

I froze for a moment as his name clicked in my mind. Of course. The Slytherin boy I had seen before—the one who had stared at me during the Sorting Ceremony and been so confident in his duel earlier.

As I processed his name, I caught a flicker of movement out of the corner of my eye. Sebastian passed by me with that familiar, cocky smirk. "Time for a proper Hogwarts welcome," he said, his voice smooth and laced with amusement.

I couldn’t help but feel a knot of nervous energy coil in my stomach. This wasn’t what I had imagined when I thought about my first day at Hogwarts.

With a flick of Professor Hecat’s wand, a raised platform appeared between us. It was solid, well-constructed, and clearly designed for dueling. The students around the room were all watching eagerly now, their gazes bouncing between me and Sebastian, waiting for what would come next.

I stepped up onto my side of the platform, trying to steady my breathing, but my heart was racing. My hands felt clammy, and I instinctively reached for my wand, holding it with both hands as if it could somehow calm me.

Sebastian took his position opposite me, his posture relaxed, almost as if he had done this a hundred times before. He didn’t take his eyes off me, and that smirk—unwavering and confident—remained firmly in place.

Professor Hecat’s sharp voice cut through the tension. "Wands at the ready," she said, her eyes glinting with a quiet challenge. "Begin when you’re ready."

I glanced at Sebastian once more, wondering what kind of duel this would be. Was he truly as skilled as he seemed? What was I getting myself into?

—————————-

The tension in the air was thick as I stood across from Sebastian, the moment feeling surreal. Professor Hecat’s voice broke through my racing thoughts, sharp and firm.

"Remember, this is a basic duel," she said, eyeing both of us with authority. "I expect you to use nothing but basic spells—Levioso, Protego, and a basic cast, nothing more. Understand?"

I nodded, though the words "damage spell" made my heart race. Was I ready to hit someone with real force? I’d practiced in the privacy of my room, but this was different. This was Sebastian Sallow.

Sebastian, ever the picture of confidence, gave a small smirk and raised his wand. His posture was perfect, as though he’d been doing this for years. Maybe he had.

"Whenever you’re ready," Professor Hecat said, her voice calm but carrying a hint of excitement.

Sebastian wasted no time. “Levioso!” His wand flicked sharply, sending a burst of force toward me.

“Protego!” I called out, raising my wand with the practiced flick I had learned from my father.

Protego was one of the spells he had always stressed. He told me it was essential, a protective shield that would keep me safe in any confrontation.

"Perfect it," he had said. "You won’t leave this estate until you do."

It wasn’t just his demand—it was the weight of his expectation. I had spent weeks practicing, tirelessly perfecting the shield charm to the point where it felt like second nature. And now, as Sebastian's spell came hurtling toward me, it was that shield that gave me the confidence to stand tall and block it without hesitation.

Sebastian’s smirk deepened as he prepared for another spell. "Nice block. But can you handle this?"

With a flick, he cast a basic damage spell, sending a burst of force toward me. I jumped back just in time, but the spell grazed my arm. It stung, but it wasn’t enough to knock me down. 

I shook it off, my adrenaline surging. This was it—I couldn’t let him get the better of me.

I stepped forward, feeling more confident now. "Levioso!" I cast quickly, and the Levitation Charm struck Sebastian in the chest, sending him stumbling back. His wand arm flailed for a moment as he regained his balance, and I pressed forward, eager to take advantage of the moment.

"Protego!" I called again, raising my wand to block his next attack, but I was faster this time. I made a swift counter with a basic damage spell of my own. The spell hit his side with a sharp burst, not enough to cause any major injury, but it sent him stumbling back, clearly caught off guard.

Sebastian's eyes widened slightly, surprised by my move. "Not bad," he said, his usual smugness faltering for a second. 

But I wasn’t about to let up. I raised my wand again, focusing. "Levioso!" I cast, sending him off-balance once more, and then immediately followed with another quick basic cast. This time, the burst of force sent him back several steps, and I could see him struggle to maintain his composure.

"Enough!" Professor Hecat's voice rang out, firm and commanding. She stepped forward, raising her wand to halt the duel. "Well done, both of you. Jessa, you handled yourself admirably for a new student."

My chest was still heaving, and I wiped a bead of sweat from my brow, feeling the rush of victory. Despite the small stings from his spell earlier, I had managed to hold my ground and even win.

Sebastian, on the other hand, was clearly trying to recover his usual cool. His smirk returned, though it lacked some of the confidence it had earlier. "Impressive, Valancaire," he said, voice low but with a hint of respect. "You’ve got some talent."

"Thanks," I muttered, still catching my breath. 

I was about to turn away when I noticed the faintest nod of approval from him. I felt a little smug, but I didn’t show it. He was good, but I’d managed to get the best of him today.

Professor Hecat moved on to the rest of the class, giving us all instructions to continue practicing. I went back to my seat, my heart still racing, but there was a part of me that felt a strange sense of accomplishment. Not just from winning, but from the way I had managed to keep my cool and handle the pressure.

As I sat down,  the red haired Gryffindor gave me a quick thumbs-up from across the room. “You were amazing, Jessa!” He said.

I grinned back at him. “Thanks"

But deep down, I was already looking forward to the next challenge.

—

“Good demonstration,” Professor Hecat said, her voice crisp. “But remember, fifth-years, your first priority is control. Both offensive and defensive spells must be used with precision, especially when facing other students.”

I nodded, feeling a flush creep up my neck. My hands still tingled with the aftermath of the spellwork.

“Class dismissed,” she added, dismissing us all with a wave of her hand.

As students began to file out, some of them exchanging excited murmurs about the duel, I made my way toward the door, still processing everything that had just happened. But before I could get too far, I felt Sebastian's presence beside me. He was walking a little too close, but I didn’t move away. Instead, I glanced up at him, a bit unsure.

“Well, that was impressive,” he said, his tone casual but with a hint of admiration. “I can’t believe that was your first duel. You have a natural talent.”

I blinked in surprise. “You really think so?”

He didn’t even hesitate. “Absolutely. You handled yourself far better than I expected. Especially under pressure. Most first-timers fumble with their spells or get too nervous, but you—” He paused, his gaze lingering on me with a calculating look. “You’ve got potential.”

I felt a small sense of pride, though I was still reeling from the whole experience. “Thanks, I guess. I’ve read about the spells in books, but... this was different.”

Sebastian gave a slight nod. “Books don’t teach you how to really use magic. It’s about instinct, control, and knowing when to act.” His voice lowered a bit, almost like he was letting me in on a secret. “I know of a great organization—somewhere that could help you refine those skills, take them to the next level. You’d be perfect for it.”

His words caught my attention. My curiosity piqued, I raised an eyebrow. “An organization?” I asked, intrigued but not entirely sure what he meant.

Sebastian smirked, as if he knew I’d be interested. “It’s a private group—only the most promising students are invited. They focus on advanced spellcraft, dueling techniques, and even the more dangerous aspects of magic. You’d be trained by some of the best.”

That sounded like something I would want to know more about. But I didn’t want to appear too eager, so I kept my tone casual. “And you think I’d be a good fit for this... organization?”

Sebastian’s eyes gleamed with certainty. “I know you would. You’ve got the talent, the focus, and—” He glanced at me with that same calculating look. “You’re not afraid to push boundaries. That’s the kind of person they’re looking for.”

I felt a twinge of excitement stir within me. It wasn’t often that someone offered an opportunity like this, especially not one that seemed to promise a chance to really improve my magic. “You’ll have to tell me more about it,” I said, trying to sound nonchalant, though inside I was buzzing with curiosity. “Maybe after classes, we can talk?”

Sebastian gave me a sly grin. “Of course. I’ll find you.”

I nodded, but before I could say anything else, he turned to leave, his cloak swishing behind him. “See you around, Jessa,” he called over his shoulder.

I stood there for a moment, watching him go, still processing everything that had just happened. The duel, the strange tension between us, and now this mysterious offer he’d just made. It felt like the beginning of something bigger, though I couldn’t quite tell what.

But one thing was certain: I was intrigued.

-----

Turned out DADA is my last class of the day, so I figured I’d try to find Jace. Now that I thought about it, it didn’t make sense. We were twins. We were in the same year. Yet, I hadn’t seen him at any of my classes so far. It was strange. If we were in the same year, we should have at least had one class together by now. But no sign of him. 

Maybe he was in another classroom, or—something else entirely? I frowned, feeling a little unsettled. I hadn’t exactly had the chance REALLY talk with him. 

I had to admit, I was a little disappointed. There were so many questions I had, so many things I wanted to ask him. I wanted to know more about what he’d been up to over the years, what Hogwarts was like for him, and how he felt about all of this. 

I shook my head, not wanting to overthink it. If I couldn’t find him now, I’d catch up with him later. He was my twin brother after all. Eventually, we’d find time to talk.

With a deep breath, I decided to focus on the moment. There was no point in stressing over things I couldn’t control right now. As much as I wanted to talk to Jace, I had my own journey to navigate through. 

I walked through the hallways, passing a few students on my way, my thoughts still drifting back to that strange feeling I had—about my brother, about everything that had happened. Hogwarts was already proving to be full of surprises, and we were just getting started.