Arc II: part IV

Alexa soared through the heavens, weightless as a feather, as the cool breeze brushed her cheeks. But suddenly, a fierce gust of wind made her squint, threatening to hurl her from the sky. She flew over a dense, impenetrable forest, its trees stretching into the far reaches of the horizon, fading into the dim dusk. As she descended, her body grew heavier, her heart pounding with the fear of crashing to the ground. But to her relief, she landed softly on the grass, at the heart of the unfamiliar forest.

The night had descended, enveloping the forest in a shroud of darkness. Alexa walked forward, her feet sinking into the wet earth, her eyes adjusting to the dim light. The rustling of leaves and the occasional hoot of an owl were the only sounds to break the eerie silence.

A silvery light beckoned to her from a distance, and as she drew nearer, she beheld an animal, a shiny silver dog that barked at her before scampering deep into the forest. Alexa followed the dog, her steps faltering on the slick grass as the trees opened a path for her. The scent of damp earth and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers filled her nostrils.

At last, Alexa emerged from the forest, her feet touching upon a stone-paved floor that replaced the grass and mud. She stood upon a hill that had been carved into a hemicycle, its various rows facing a platform upon which an old black stone-made arcade stood, its tattered old thin black curtain fluttering in the breeze. The stands were filled with people dressed in attire of medieval and Renaissance styles, some even donning armor. The scent of burning torches and the sound of lutes and harps filled the air, transporting Alexa to another time and place.

As Alexa gazed upon the scene, she wondered how she had come to this place, and what it all meant. Nevertheless, she felt a pull towards the Archway and the people gathered there, waiting for something.

Alexa's attention was drawn to a glowing light emanating from the sand. Could it be Padfoot, she wondered, whom she had lost in their earlier race? He kept barking at her until she finally made her way down the steps, where he greeted her with joyful hops and barks by the Archway.

The closer Alexa approached the Archway, the more her heart raced, and her body felt weighed down by an unexplainable heaviness. As the dog ran towards the veil, Alexa's fear escalated, and she attempted to stop him, but a deafening noise distracted her. She instinctively looked up at the sky and saw a red bolt that slashed the starry night, dispersing the stars. When she turned back, she noticed the people who had been sitting in the rows were gone, and her dog was nowhere in sight. Instead, a lone man in his thirties, with black hair and wearing Sirius' torn clothes, leaned against the Archway's frame, looking at her.

As the man approached, Alexa felt enveloped by a warm and welcoming feeling, as if his mere presence had the power to chase away the eerie atmosphere that the Archway had created. It was as though he radiated an aura of benevolence that enveloped everything around him, including Alexa herself, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over her as she stood before him.

"Hello there! You seem lost," the man said, amused by her confusion.

"What is this place?" Alexa asked.

"Is it real?" the man raised an eyebrow, asking back.

Alexa blinked and looked around. "This isn't real. It's only a dream," she whispered.

"Clearly, this is a dream. Nevertheless, it is astoundingly well-crafted by your mind, fashioned from genuine fragments gleaned from lands you have yet to lay your eyes upon...some of which are forever lost, regrettably," the man remarked. With a gaze fixed upon the Archway, he continued, "Yet, the fact that your mind delves so deeply signifies that you are bound to play a part in this impending 'Kataclysmus.'. However, this obviously too soon. Take heed of yourself," he advised, before pivoting on his heel and striding towards the veil.

Alexa frowned in confusion. "What? Who are you anyway?" she abruptly asked.

The man stopped and glanced at her. His lips moved to voice his name, but his voice was muffled by a deafening sound that made her surroundings shake. The deafening noise came from the sky.

Alexa slowly opened her eyes and felt her cheek pressed against a hard, itchy surface while drooling from the corner of her mouth. She looked at a strange picture, with odd, twisted dark silhouettes dancing around. A voice echoed in her head, getting lower and closer. Alexa was ready to do whatever it took to shut it down. Suddenly, a noise sounded close to her face and startled her.

"FRAU ACKER!"

Alexa straightened up in her chair, blushing at the sight of Professor Schrader's angry face. The transfiguration professor had just crushed a book on her desk. Her eyes wandered about the classroom, and she discovered that the dark silhouettes belonged to her classmates who were whispering and laughing at her. Finally, Mr. Schrader's face softened, and he silenced the classroom before talking to Alexa.

"Miss Acker, do you find my classes boring?" He asked.

"No... I'm sorry... I didn't even realize..." Alexa tried to explain, but he had already carried on with his lecture to the class.

Alexa ignored the looks and lowered her eyes to her book. She didn't remember falling asleep, nor did the dream feel like a dream, as everything seemed so real. Finally, the bell sounded, and Professor Schrader dismissed them. As Alexa made to leave the classroom, he waved at her.

"Acker, one moment, please," he said.

Alexa approached the professor's desk, from where he glanced severely at her.

"Professor, I apologize for falling asleep. I have no excuse," Alexa said.

He reached for a parchment and handed it to her. She recognized the essay she had returned a week ago, unmarked.

"I didn't have to read more than five lines to understand that you waited until the last minute to botch it," Professor Schrader said.

"I... I'm sorry, I had..." Alexa mumbled.

"...Which I find quite strange considering your attitude and the other assignments you have returned. I expected better work from you, considering how you've used me since the school year started. And now, you fall asleep during my class. So here's the question: Is everything fine at home?" Schrader asked.

"Yes, of course!" Alexa said. "It's just that... It was a little bit difficult to adjust to this new life, far from home..." Alexa said.

"You're from Hamburg, right?" Schader asked.

"Yes... Why?" Alexa asked.

"Nothing... I also noticed that you never pair with other students in my classes, and Professor Suhl says it's the same in potions," Schrader said.

"Oh... I just prefer to work at my own pace," Alexa said.

"That's not how school, works... Next time, I'll pair you with someone. You'll notice that I didn't mark your essay, so I suggest you do it again and apply yourself this time. You can go now," Schrader said, dismissing her and waving a hand before collecting the wool balls placed on each table.


Alexa swiftly made her way to the washroom, feeling a sense of urgency to be alone with her thoughts and put some distance between her and her classmates' mockeries. As soon as she entered, she dropped her bag on the tiled floor and rushed to the sink, splashing water on her face to ease her racing mind. As she caught her breath and glanced at her reflection in the mirror, she couldn't shake off the memory of the shadowy man who had appeared in her dream. His words echoed in her mind, and she closed her eyes, trying to recall more of what he had said.

Just as she was lost in thought and her heart soothed, she heard the sound of footsteps and voices growing closer. Panic set in as she recognized the voices. Quickly, Alexa darted into a vacant stall and shut the door, trying to muffle her breathing as the sounds grew louder and three girls entered the washroom.

"I've already told you everything I know, Yuna! The last time I saw her was on Friday afternoon," Janna said, sounding irritated.

"But are you positive she didn't leave you any voicemail over the weekend?" Yuna asked.

"Nope!" Janna replied. "Look, she's probably off with some guy somewhere...so, you're most likely worrying for nothing."

"If that were the case, she would have made sure we would know!" Yuna countered. "What about you, Rea?"

"Nothing... As I say, my parents and I were supposed to visit them on Saturday...you know how our dads are friends and all...However, on Saturday morning, her mom showed up at our place in tears. As usual, they had argued on Friday morning, so when Kaia didn't return home after school, she just assumed she was pouting at my place or yours. So, our dads and my brother spent the entire weekend searching for her...her mother even went to ask that ugly goblin! And she was furious when she returned home," Rea explained.

"What?! Why did she go see her? Don't tell me she ratted us out!" Yuna exclaimed.

"Kind of...From what I gathered; she freaked out when Kaia's mom told her who she is", Réa said.

"Well, if she told her on us…I swear I'll shave her head and eyebrows!" Janna said.

"First, you'd have to get rid of that dog that follows her around," Yuna laughed.

"It's only a matter of time before I hang him to a tree. Let's see who would stop me, then" Janna said before bursting into laughter.

"That's fucking horrible, Janna!" Rea scolded her.

"All right, sweetheart...How about a certain person - whom I won't name - hanging upside down with her head, spinning inside a toilet bowl? Wouldn't that be funny to see?" Janna asked.

"What are you talking about?" Yuna asked, with a frown.

"Look down at your feet" Janna replied.

As Yuna's soft singing voice drifted towards Alexa's cabin door, Alexa cursed herself for her rush earlier. She had forgotten to grab her bag in her haste to hide, and now her face turned pale. Yuna's melodic tune only added to Alexa's anxiety, intensifying the fear of being caught.

"Alexita...would you be kind to come out by yourself, or should I come in after you?" Yuna asked in a gentle voice.

Alexa wracked her brain for a solution that didn't involve dunking her head in the boiling toilet water, but nothing came to mind. This time, she was on her own as Sirius was far away. Though she had heard rumors of wizards and witches capable of teleporting themselves across great distances, even with magic, she knew it was impossible. Panic began to set in as she struggled to think of a way out, until suddenly, Sirius' voice echoed in her mind.

"You'll always find someone to pick on you."

Suddenly, she could feel the tension building up inside her. She had had enough of the constant bullying and name-calling from Yuna and her friends. "Sirius was right," she whispered to herself, determined to act.

When she heard Yuna whisper "Alohomora," Alexa knew it was time to make her move. She darted out of the cabin, slamming into Yuna with such force that she was thrown against the mirror, leaving a crack in its surface. As Yuna lay on the ground, dazed, and confused, Alexa quickly snatched her bag and made a run for it.

As she ran down the corridor, she jostled past two curious third-year students who looked at her with concern. Alexa ignored them and kept running until she reached the bus, panting and sweating profusely. She collapsed into her usual seat and wiped the sweat from her forehead with her sleeve.

Through the window, Alexa watched as Yuna, her face red with anger, stormed out of the school, closely followed by Rea and Janna. They were shouting her name and looking around frantically, trying to find her.

Alexa settled herself into her seat on the bus and took a deep breath as it began to move. Only then did she allow herself to relax, sinking back against the window with a giggle. She couldn't help but think of Yuna crashing into the mirror and the shocked expressions on the faces of the two other girls as she slalomed between their legs to make her escape. It was times like these when being tiny came in handy!


As the bus trundled on, the scenery outside the window became a blur, and Alexa's mind began to wander. She yawned and stretched her legs, lost in thought about what awaited her next. Later that day, she was scheduled to meet with Sirius for her first lesson. Her heart raced with anticipation as she wondered what he would teach her and whether she would be up to the challenge.

Surprisingly, the bus had already arrived in the small village, and they were driving down the main street. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Kai's mother frantically sticking posters with her daughter's picture on the shop windows. Alexa's heart sank, knowing all too well the pain of losing a loved one. Despite her animosity towards Kai, she couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness for the girl's mother. She silently wished for Kai's safe return home and hoped that her parents would never have to endure the same pain.

Upon arriving home, Alexa had little time to spare before Sirius's barking commanded her to follow him. Without hesitation, she followed him outside, her bag still in hand. With Sirius taking the lead in his Padfoot form, they embarked on a twenty-minute walk through the forest until they reached a clearing. It was there that Sirius transformed back into his human form, and they could finally pause and catch their breath.

"Perfect! I came this morning to inspect the place," Sirius exclaimed, his hands on his hips, surveying the area with satisfaction.

"Wouldn't it be better to hide among the trees instead of out in the open? What if someone sees you and recognizes you?" Alexa inquired.

"Not a chance... Look," he said, pointing his wand at the sky and murmuring an incantation. Vibrations emanated from the tip of his wand, tickling her cheeks as he levitated a nearby tree trunk closer to him to sit on.

"What were those spells?" Alexa asked, peering up at the sky.

"They were designed to keep us hidden from all senses, repel muggles, and conceal our magic signature," Sirius explained. "Your academy must have placed wards to remain hidden from muggles as well, probably including unwanted guests such as dementors."

"The academy is hidden? Is it even possible to conceal an entire building?" Alexa exclaimed, eyes widening.

"Of course, it is! You should have noticed it when we went there on the first day. You'll feel a slight breeze as you pass by... Wait, what's a 'Tankstelle'?" Sirius inquired.

"It's a gas station," Alexa replied.

"A what?" Sirius questioned.

"It's where you go to refill your car's gas tank so it can function," Alexa clarified.

"Ah, I see... That may be where the academy's grounds start," Sirius mused.

"Come to think of it, I've always wondered why no one from the village has discovered the school, given that the people around here enjoy hiking. Honestly, there's not much else to do in this area," Alexa said with a shrug.

"Not even a quidditch pitch," Sirius added.

"What's quidditch?" Alexa asked.

"Only the greatest game in the wizarding world, the sport of wizards!" Sirius exclaimed.

"I've never heard of it... How do you play?" Alexa inquired.

"It would take too long to explain, and that's not why we're here... But it's a game that involves flying brooms and different types of balls," Sirius explained.

"Do you play?" Alexa questioned.

"Um... Not really. James was the best at it in school, but I was more of a gambler than a player," Sirius admitted.

"I see... You're not very good on a broom, are you?" Alexa teased, grinning at him.

"I'M VERY GOOD ON A BROOM! Even though I prefer motorcycles... Anyway, I would like to remind you that we're alone, invisible, in a forest... So be careful if you don't want me to bury you alive," Sirius said jokingly.

"Okay... I'm not very athletic either... So, let's get back to the wards," Alexa said.

"Ah, I see. Originally, wizards invented wards to conceal important places from both muggles and their enemies. For example, every stone at Hogwarts was charmed by Rowena Ravenclaw. If a muggle were to look at the castle, they would only see a ruin. Godric Gryffindor placed one so that humans could not apparate inside, and Salazar Slytherin placed another to protect the castle and its inhabitants from dark magic and malevolent forces. Durmstrang is impossible to locate without an invitation. Although a secret charm is placed on students and teachers that grants them access, once they graduate or stop working there, the spell is lifted, and they can no longer find it unless invited," Sirius explained.

"I understand. We don't learn about this at the academy," Alexa replied.

"Hogwarts doesn't teach the practical side either. It's advanced magic that only a few wizards and witches can master. But, as a first-year student, you have plenty of time," Sirius reassured her.

"Of course. So, what's on the agenda for today?" Alexa asked.

"Well, after a few naps, I've come up with a simple training program for you. I've selected some spells that we will go over gradually," Sirius said, handing her a paper from his pocket.

The Disarming spell: Expelliarmus.

The full body-bind curse: Petrificus totalus.

The First level shield charm: Protego.

The Knockback Jinx: Fipendo

The Stunning spell: Stupefy.

The reductor curse: Reducto.

The summoning charm: Accio.

The impediment jinx: Impedimenta.

A General counterspell: Finite Incantatem. And finally, the most challenging spell of them all, the Patronus charm, "Expecto Patronum,", to ward off Dementors. I don't expect you to master it at all, but it's a great opportunity for introspection and pushing your limits."

Sirius began explaining, "Each of these spells has more advanced versions, so mastering them will provide you with a substantial arsenal. Additionally, it will enhance your control and understanding of how your magic works."

Alexa read the list carefully and recognized two spells that Janna had previously used on her. "That sounds great! Although, don't you see the problem here?" she asked Sirius.

"What problem?" Sirius questioned in disbelief. "Are you already making excuses? It's like you have no dignity," he scoffed.

"I AM NOT ALLOWED TO USE MAGIC OUTSIDE OF THE ACADEMY!" Alexa interrupted, her voice rising.

"So what? It's the same rule in Great Britain and across the world," Sirius replied nonchalantly.

"Sirius, some of us aspire to more than just landing ourselves in prison, escaping, and traveling kilometers to terrorize young girls," Alexa calmly retorted. Sirius couldn't help but burst out laughing.

"They won't send you to prison for that," Sirius said, dodging a rock Alexa threw at him. "They'll just owl your mother and tell her you're a delinquent. Then she'll probably say something like, 'Sweetie, let's have a talk about your behavior over a glass of milk.'" He imitated Mrs. Acker's voice, which earned him a cold look from Alexa.

"Don't make fun of my mom," Alexa said.

"I'm sorry. You can insult my mom if you want, as revenge," Sirius said, shrugging.

"I wouldn't do that," Alexa said.

"Because you never met her," Sirius said, looking away. "Let's get to work. The Ministry can only detect improper use of magic if you use it at home, where only a witch is registered in your case. So, if you use magic elsewhere, they will detect it but can't prove it's you. They wouldn't care anyway, except if there were Muggle witnesses. So, you're good."

"So, it's just to scare us?" Alexa asked.

"Yes. But be careful when you're at home, as they can also detect unwanted magic," Sirius said, taking out his wand.

"What do we start with?" Alexa asked.

"The disarmament spell! It's easy to learn. If you take your opponent's wand from them, it's like a checkmate. Unless they can use wandless magic, which means they're very powerful. But if your spell is strong enough, you can disarm multiple opponents at once or throw your target backward," Sirius said.

"Great! How do I do it?" Alexa asked.

Sirius leaned forward with a grin on his face. "All you need to do is aim at me and do a windmill with your wrist and say 'EXPELLIARMUS!' Make sure you press the 'PE' so it works. Try it!"

Alexa nodded, took a deep breath, and followed Sirius's instructions. She shouted, "EXPELLIARMUS!" Only nothing happened as Sirius's wand was still in his hand.

"It didn't work! TELL ME WHY, INSTEAD OF LAUGHING!" Alexa shouted at Sirius, who was laughing loudly, pointing a finger at her.

He finally calmed down and met Alexa's dark glance. He whipped a tear from his eye and said, "What did you do wrong? Do you mean that wide, ridiculous move you made with BOTH arms? Or do you refer to how you shouted 'PELIARPUS' instead of 'EXPELLIARMUS'?" He held back from laughing another time.

Alexa slammed the palm of her hand against her forehead and said with a defeated voice, "I'm ridiculous."

"You think? More seriously, you're just a novice, and we're here so you could progress, not to get everything right on the first try," Sirius said, patting her head. "We're going to start step by step...First, you're going to work on your wrist move, that's all. Then your pronunciation, that's your biggest problem… When you have it all figured out, we will combine the two first steps."

As she thought, it wasn't going easy, but at least Sirius was understanding. "How long do you think going through the entire list will take?" Alexa asked.

"As long as it should! Alexa, magic isn't something we rush...In your case, perhaps you should start thinking like a witch and not like a muggle," Sirius said.

"What do you mean?" Alexa asked.

"Magic isn't about waving your wand and shouting an incantation...It's something subtle that you should study, feel the magic run through your body, and put some real will into your actions. Do never doubt! Until you are 100% sure the spell will work even before casting it. One day, you won't even need to pronounce the incantation," Sirius said.

Alexa looked at him before nodding and turned to practice her wrist move.

"Very good! keep working; I'll tell you when it's time to stop," Sirius said.

"No! I decide when it's time to stop!" She said, making him smile.

"I meant when it would be time to go home before your mother comes back from work...But, if you need the entire night to learn how to move your wrist, I won't insist," Sirius said, shrugging.

"If only I could transform into a lioness or a crocodile...I would eat you alive and make it painful!" Alexa spat. "What are you anyway? A man who turns into a dog? Or a dog who turns into a human?"

"Merlin...We've been here for less than fifteen minutes, and you've already given me a headache...I'm a man who can turn into a dog, an advanced transfiguration ability that is, for now, impossible to explain to a simple-minded person like you...But, I notice how you don't chicken out in front of me now..."

"And I didn't chicken today neither at school!" Alexa said, smiling.

"Really?... You'll tell me about it later; get to work now," Sirius ordered, waving his hand casually before turning back into his German Shepard form, putting an end to their discussion. Alexa stuck out her tongue at him before carrying on practicing her wrist move.