Ancient Secrets
Chapter 3
As they walked through the corridors, Silvina glanced back every so often as the feeling of being watched began to make her feel nervous. As they reached the statue leading to the Headmistress's office, Professor Abbot spoke calmly. " Toffee Eclair. "
After speaking, Professor Abbot waited as the statue rose, Revealing a staircase. After stepping onto the stairs, Professor Abbot and Silvina waited for the statue to stop moving before walking into Headmistress McGonagall's office and sitting down as she spoke calmly.
" Thank you both for sparing the time to speak with me. As I attempted to start teaching Theory Of Magic, My students could speak of nothing but your encounter in the classroom. Explain to me what happened. " Headmistress McGonagall waited as Professor Abbot spoke slowly.
" We were studying Boggart's in class and Silvina stepped in front of a scared student, Causing the Boggart to change into a perfect copy of herself. This of-course means that she fears herself above all else. " Professor Abbot spoke calmly as Headmistress McGonagall thought for a few moments before speaking slowly.
" Explain why that is please Silvina. Of the many things to fear in the world of magic, I can think of far worse than you dear. What troubles you? " Headmistress McGonagall smiled sweetly but her smile slowly faltered as Silvina sighed and spoke shakily.
" My magic... My magic is devastating. We were asked to leave America because my magic destroyed a building and heavily injured seven people. I didn't mean to do it! But... There was a man walking toward me with his wand raised and... I don't even know what I did... I just... I... " Silvina bit her lip as tears slowly trickled down her cheeks as Headmistress McGonagall spoke slowly.
" I was aware that you were asked to leave America but I was unaware why. That being said, You reacted instinctively and defended yourself. Yes, Your magic had unfortunate consequences but any of us would have reacted in similar fashion. " Headmistress McGonagall smiled sweet before Silvina stood and spoke harshly.
" You don't get it! I am the problem! My emotions and thoughts trigger my wand to react! " Silvina cried softly as her wand flew out of her robes and made threatening sparks toward Headmistress McGonagall before Silvina grabbed her wand and rushed out of the room as Professor Abbot spoke softly.
" Is it something we can remedy? For someone so young to struggle with so heavy a burden... " Professor Abbot sighed sadly before Headmistress McGonagall sighed and spoke.
" I believe Professor Wolfe has a few ideas. I will send an owl. You may return to classes Professor Abbot. Thank you for your time. " Headmistress McGonagall smiled as Professor Abbot left before Headmistress McGonagall sent an owl to Professor Wolfe.
Meanwhile
Silvina was sitting at the edge of the lake, Sniffling softly before gasping as a soft voice startled her.
" Silvina? " Aurora spoke softly but gasped as Silvina jumped before speaking quickly. " I'm sorry! I didn't mean to scare you! "
" It's okay. " Silvina breathed out slowly as her heart raced for a few moments before looking back toward the lake as Aurora sat down beside her and spoke.
" Are you okay? " Aurora looked worried as Silvina sighed heavily before her wand floated out of her robes and twirled through the air in front of her before she spoke softly.
" Yes... No... I... I don't know. I want to be okay but I feel so dangerous and I really don't want to hurt anyone but... I can't even be myself. Everything I say or do has to be done so carefully or it will trigger my magic. It is so hard... I feel like I am alone and like I can't breathe and I just... " Silvina gasped softly and froze as Aurora hugged her tenderly before speaking as she held Silvina gently.
" I don't care if you are dangerous or not. I will never be scared of you. No matter what happens. " Aurora held Silvina as Silvina leaned her head against Aurora's chest gently before speaking.
" I don't know what to do anymore... I can't trust myself... " Silvina sighed softly before Kari's musical cry echoed through the air as she swooped down and landed beside Silvina before hopping onto her leg, Dropping a small letter into her lap and nuzzling her face lovingly as she leant forward while Silvina smiled. " Hello Kari. "
After chirping softly, Kari nuzzled Silvina's face again before nibbling her ear gently and taking off again as Silvina opened the letter. It read:
" Silvina. Come to my office. I have an idea to help you overcome your fears. Ayasha. "
" That's good right? " Aurora smiled reassuringly but looked saddened as Silvina looked away slowly.
" And if it doesn't work... " Silvina sighed softly but blushed lightly as Aurora put her arms around her and whispered in her ear slowly.
" If it doesn't work, You will still have me. " Aurora blushed lightly before gently kissing Silvina's cheek and running off as Silvina sat in silence with a stunned look on her face before smiling slightly and standing. After brushing herself off, Silvina walked toward the castle.
A Few Minutes Later
As Silvina walked into Professor Wolfe's office, She spoke softly. " Ayasha? Are you here? "
" Come in sweetheart. I'll make some tea. " Professor Wolfe spoke from a back room in the office as Silvina stepped in and closed the door. As she turned around, She was met by the smell of Sage, Sweetgrass, Tobacco and Cedar wood. As she breathed in slowly, She felt her stress and fatigue melt away as she relaxed before sitting on a soft cushion as Professor Wolfe entered the main room and sat down before pouring tea as Silvina spoke softly.
" It smells so good in here... I feel so relaxed... " Silvina closed her eyes as she took a slow, Deep breathe as Professor Wolfe smiled and spoke softly.
" Entrancing isn't it? I find the smell soothing. I often get homesick and the scent helps me relax. I am glad you like it. Try the tea. " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina picked up the small cup and sipped slowly before swallowing and sighing softly as the gentle warmth of the tea permeated through her body.
" It's lovely Ayasha. Thank you. " Silvina smiled before Professor Wolfe giggled softly and spoke.
" These are some of the traditions and cultural teachings that have been passed down throughout the history of my people from generation to generation. They are very precious to me. " Professor Wolfe sighed before continuing as Silvina smiled. " I often reminisce about my childhood. I grew up in the wide open fields and endless grass of the Great Plains. It wasn't until I was a teenager that my family moved to Montana to make a life. I do miss the smells of the plains. The air was so fresh and clean. The smell of the grass, The rivers... I miss my home often. But Hogwarts has become my home. Scotland is different but the smells that remind me of home are here too. "
" I miss Japan. Our little house in Kyoto. My friends and my preschool. I really, Really miss the food. There was a little soba shop down the street from our house. The owner would let me try his new recipes. And the mochi shop next door to my preschool. In front of our house was the most beautiful sakura tree. I really miss it. It was the first home I knew. " Silvina sniffled sadly as Professor Wolfe petted her head gently before speaking.
" Small steps sweety. Let's focus on our healing ritual for today and go from there okay? " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina nodded before continuing. " The smell in here is part of the ritual. Sage, Sweetgrass, Tobacco and Cedar all assist in healing the spirit. Tobacco represents balance. Sweetgrass represents kindness and positivity. Cedar represents harmony and Sage represents protection from negativity. "
" It's a really nice smell. " Silvina smiled sweetly as Professor Wolfe giggled softly before continuing.
" The ritual itself is rather straight forward. I am going to make you a charm that has a part of each spiritual kingdom attached to it. I have most of what I need. All I need is something personal from you. " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina took a small silver feather pendant out of her pocket.
" My grandmother gave me this when we left Japan. I have kept it with me since. " Silvina smiled as she held the small pendant out to Professor Wolfe as she spoke.
" Perfect. Now, While I craft the charm, I want you to close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Nothing else exists but you and the sound of your breathing okay? " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina nodded before closing her eyes and breathing slowly, Letting the smells in the air around her fill her senses.
After several minutes, Silvina sighed softly as her head started spinning before the sensation of falling filled her and she opened her eyes slowly. As her eyes adjusted, Silvina looked around in awe. All around her was a dense forest that seemed to stretch in every direction as far as the eye could see.
As she looked around, Silvina noticed a small, Glowing butterfly perched on a nearby flower. As Silvina walked over, The butterfly took off and fluttered along a pathway that led deeper into the forest. As Silvina followed, She giggled happily at how the butterfly flew around in seemingly random patterns. After several minutes of following the butterfly, Silvina stepped into a small clearing filled with flowers of all different kinds. As she walked to the centre of the clearing, The butterfly fluttered over to her before landing on the tip of her nose as it slowly started glowing a soft shade of pink. After a few moments, The glow quickly intensified as a torrent of butterflies erupted from the flowers and encircled Silvina before she snapped back to reality.
Silvina motioned to sit up as she groaned softly but stopped as Professor Wolfe placed a hand on her shoulder and spoke calmly.
" Easy now. Slow breaths. " Professor Wolfe waited for a moment before helping Silvina sit up and handing her a cup of tea. After sipping the tea slowly, Silvina spoke softly.
" I was in a forest. I followed a little butterfly to a clearing before it landed on my nose and started glowing pink. Before I woke up, There were butterflies everywhere. Flying around me in a circle... " Silvina sighed tiredly before sipping her tea again as Professor Wolfe spoke.
" The ritual you just completed allows a person to enter the spirit world and make a connection with one of the spirits and bond with them as a totem spirit. There are countless spirits of every kind, Shape and colour. Your totem spirit is the butterfly. The butterfly is the spirit of metamorphosis, Transformation, Balance, Grace, The ability to accept change, Lightness, Soul and vulnerability. As a totem spirit, The butterfly will help to guide you and protect you. " Professor Wolfe smiled before holding up a small necklace and continuing. " This necklace will help to calm your mind. I have attached your pendant, A small bundle of sage, Tobacco, Cedar and sweetgrass in a small infuser to keep them from going everywhere. I also added an amethyst and one of Kari's feathers. "
As Professor Wolfe finished speaking, Silvina smiled happily before moving her hair out of the way so Professor Wolfe could put the necklace on her. After reaching around Silvina's neck, Professor Wolfe spoke as the necklace attached with a small click.
" I used powerful magnets to make it easier to take off and put on. I figured a small hook or screw would only irritate you. " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina spoke.
" Thank you Ayasha. It's beautiful. " Silvina smiled as Professor Wolfe petted her head gently.
" I just hope it helps. It is hard to see you suffer. " Professor Wolfe smiled before continuing as Silvina nodded. " Go and relax for a while. You still have a few hours before duelling class. "
Professor Wolfe smiled again as Silvina hugged her gently before standing and leaving the office. After walking out of the castle, Silvina sat at the edge of the lake and watched the water before breathing slowly and closing her eyes.
A Few Hours Later
After taking a nap at the edge of the lake, Silvina hurried toward the Great Hall for Duelling class. As she entered the hall, Silvina saw that the house tables had been moved aside and one large platform was placed in the centre of the room as she heard Professor Wolfe speak.
" Silvina. I was beginning to worry. Come in, We are just getting started. " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina smiled apologetically before continuing. " As I was saying, In this class, You will learn how to defend yourselves from a witch or wizard trying to harm you. As a practical class, You will receive a demonstration of the spell we are learning before being paired for a practice duel. Firstly, I will say that no personal spells will be permitted. Yes, I am speaking to you Silvina. "
Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina looked disappointed for a moment before Professor Wolfe continued. " To explain why, Silvina, Come up here and demonstrate your personal spells while I show the class the defensive spell we will be learning today. It is called Protego. "
As Professor Wolfe explained the proper wand movements for Protego, Silvina shuffled through the students before walking up the small staircase to the platform while Professor Wolfe continued. " Now, Protego has several more powerful versions that you will learn at a later date. For now, The base spell is Protego. Silvina, Use one of your personal spells. "
" Fulmen! " Silvina spoke clearly as she made a quick flourish with her wand. As she pointed her wand toward Professor Wolfe, A bolt of lightning exploded from it before Professor Wolfe spoke quickly.
" Protego! " Professor Wolfe smiled as the bolt of lightning hit her shield and made a loud sizzling sound before firing back toward Silvina. As the bolt was about to hit, Silvina raised her hand calmly, Allowing the bolt to hit the palm of her hand before it seemingly disappeared while Professor Wolfe spoke. " As you can see, Protego can deflect the majority of offensive spells that will be used against you. Now, Silvina, I want you to use one of your stronger spells against me so I can demonstrate one of the stronger versions of Protego. Don't be scared, You won't hurt me. "
Professor Wolfe smiled reassuringly before Silvina nodded nervously and closed her eyes. After a moment, The air swirled around her as she made a graceful circle with her wand. As lightning sparked in the air around her, Silvina opened her eyes slowly, Revealing that her eyes were glowing a soft shade of icy blue before the lightning in the air around her formed into a large ball in front of her before she spoke.
" Percute Tempestus! " Silvina made a pushing motion toward Professor Wolfe as she finished speaking, Causing the ball of lightning to exploded forward with a thunderous sound as Professor Wolfe spoke.
" Protego Maxima! " Professor Wolfe gasped softly as the ball of lightning slammed into the shield her spell created before cracks began quickly appearing as she spoke again. " Finite Incantatem! "
As Professor Wolfe spoke, Her shield spell shattered before the ball of lightning disappeared and she spoke calmly. " Well done Silvina. As you can all see, Personal spells can be powerful enough to shatter protective charms. This is why personal magic will not be permitted. Along with Protego, I also demonstrated Finite Incantatem. This spell will cancel any magical effects in the area. Now then, Let's have our first practice duel. Let's have... Aurora... And... Jinn. Remember, Protego and basic offence only. "
Professor Wolfe smiled as Aurora walked past Silvina, Who smiled reassuringly as Aurora stepped onto the platform to see a young boy with dark brown hair that was styled toward the back of his head and resembled small spikes, Bright green eyes and moderately tanned skin wearing Slytherin robes stepping onto the opposite end of the platform before they both walked to the centre as Professor Wolfe spoke.
" In a formal duel, It is tradition to first raise your wand in front of you before moving it to your side and bowing. Once that is done, Proceed to the ends of the platform and begin when you are ready. " Professor Wolfe watched carefully as Aurora and Jinn followed her instructions. Once at the ends of the platform, Aurora and Jinn stood in combat stances, Waiting for the other to act before Jinn spoke as he made a flourishing motion.
" Stupify! " Jinn pointed his wand toward Aurora as a beam of red light erupted from his wand before Aurora spoke.
" Protego! " Aurora sighed nervously as Jinn's spell hit her shield before making a fizzing noise. After a moment, Aurora pointed her wand toward Jinn and spoke clearly. " Rictusempra! "
As a spiral of white energy erupted from Aurora's wand, Jinn spoke clearly.
" Protego! " Jinn smiled as Aurora's spell hit his shield and fizzled before Professor Wolfe spoke.
" Excellent. Now we will have a few more practice duels before we end class with one proper duel. " Professor Wolfe smiled before assigning pairs for practice duels.
Thirty Minutes Later
" Alright. Now that everyone has had a practice duel, Let's have a proper duel to finish off the lesson before dinner. Let's see... Let's have Silvina and Aurora. " Professor Wolfe smiled as Silvina and Aurora walked onto the platform before walking to the centre, Raising and lowering their wands before bowing and walking back to the ends of the platform as Professor Wolfe spoke.
" Now then, Protego and basic offence only. Nothing fancy. Begin. " Professor Wolfe watched as Silvina took a step forward and spoke calmly.
" Stupify! " Silvina pointed her wand forward as a beam of red light erupted from her wand as Aurora spoke.
" Protego! " Aurora looked nervous as Silvina's spell bounced off her shield before she quickly spoke. " Expelliarmus! "
Before Silvina could react, Her wand flew out of her hand and across the room before Aurora spoke again. " Rictusempra! "
As Silvina watched the spell spiral toward her, Her wand flew back across the room before floating in front of her as a dome of violet flames surrounded her, Causing the students near the platform to back away quickly before Professor Wolfe spoke.
" Finite Incantatem! " Professor Wolfe pointed her wand toward the platform and sighed as Aurora's spell disappeared before looking toward Silvina and realising that the dome of flames had not. " Silvina? " Professor Wolfe waited for a moment before Silvina's voice echoed from within the dome.
" I... I can't make it stop... Ayasha... Please make it stop... " Silvina spoke shakily before Professor Wolfe rushed toward the platform and spoke forcefully.
" Aguamenti! " Professor Wolfe pointed her wand toward the dome of flames as a stream of water erupted from her wand. As the water hit the dome, It made a loud sizzling noise of steam quickly filled the room. After a few moments, The steam dissipated as Professor Wolfe lowered her wand before Silvina coughed softly and Professor Wolfe walked onto the platform before kneeling as she realised that Silvina was soaked from head to toe as she spoke softly.
" Silvina, Are you alright? " Professor Wolfe looked over Silvina to make sure she had no injuries before Silvina's lip trembled and she shook her head before standing slowly and walking toward the door. As Silvina left the hall, Professor Wolfe sighed softly before Aurora rushed after Silvina.
After looking around for several minutes, Aurora found Silvina sitting in the courtyard, Crying softly. As she walked over and sat down, Aurora motioned to speak before another voice cut her off.
" What a crybaby. Getting all upset over a little fire. "
As Aurora and Silvina looked up, They saw a young girl with black hair that had shimmering silver tips styled in an undercut at the sides with the top and back styled to resemble flames before Silvina spoke softly.
" You... You don't understand... " Silvina sniffled softly before the young girl laughed as the few people around her quickly joined in before speaking again.
" Why would I care to? You aren't worth me taking the time or effort to understand. What kind of coward gets all teary eyed from fire? So lame. " The young girl laughed loudly before walking away as the people with her shouted a few insults before leaving as Silvina sniffled again before Aurora spoke.
" Don't listen to them Silvina. They are just bullies. " Aurora smiled sweetly as Silvina nodded before Aurora hugged her gently as Mika walked over and knelt down.
" You okay Via? " Mika petted Silvina's head gently as Silvina nodded and spoke softly.
" Yeah... No... I don't know... I'm just... I am so tried of being so scared of myself all the time. I am so tired of having to restrain my emotions for fear of what my magic will cause... " Silvina sniffled softly before looking toward Aurora and speaking as tears rolled down her cheeks quickly. " I could have hurt you... I could have hurt everyone... "
" But you didn't. " Aurora smiled as she caressed Silvina's cheek gently. " You didn't hurt me and even if you did, Nothing would change. I would still be right here by your side. "
" But I... " Silvina was cut off as Mika thumped her head gently.
" None of that thank you. Your power doesn't scare us Via. You don't scare us. And even if you or your power did scare us it wouldn't matter. You are our friend. My best friend. I don't care what anyone says, Nothing will change that. " Mika smiled as she knelt down and hugged Silvina tenderly before Silvina sighed softly and nuzzled against Mika's chest gently.
After a few minutes, The three girls walked into the Great Hall as dinner started. After eating dinner, Silvina hugged Aurora and Mika tightly before walking to Ravenclaw Tower and going to bed.
Tuesday
After a restless night, Silvina stretched out slowly before getting dressed and going to the Great Hall. After sitting down and filling her plate with a stack of pancakes and tipping syrup over them, She ate slowly as Professor Vissity sat beside her and spoke softly.
" Good morning sweetheart. " Professor Vissity smiled as Silvina licked her lips before speaking.
" Morning mum. " Silvina smiled as she leant against Professor Vissity as she spoke.
" Ayasha told me about duelling class. Are you okay? " Professor Vissity ran her fingers through Silvina's hair slowly as Silvina sighed softly and spoke.
" I don't know if I will ever be okay. It gets harder every day to keep my emotions hidden away. I just want to be myself and I can't... " Silvina sighed softly again before Professor Vissity kissed her head gently and spoke.
" One day you will be able to. Just give it time sweetheart. For now, Enjoy your pancakes. " Professor Vissity smiled as Silvina smiled before she stood and walked away as Aurora sat next to Silvina and spoke.
" Good morning Silvina. " Aurora smiled as Silvina smiled before speaking.
" Morning Aurora. " Silvina smiled but looked confused as Aurora giggled softly. " What is it? "
" You have syrup on your face. " Aurora giggled softly as Silvina failed to clean her face before Aurora reached over and gently used her finger to swipe the small drizzle of syrup off Silvina's cheek before licking her finger, Causing Silvina to blush brightly as Aurora spoke. " Mmm. That syrup is tas... "
Aurora froze as she realised what she had done before blushing brightly as Mika walked over and sat down before speaking.
" Wow Aurora. That was pretty bold. " Mika smirked playfully as Aurora whimpered softly before Mika continued. " How are you today Via? "
" Still kinda blue. But at least I have pancakes. " Silvina giggled softly before Mika smiled and spoke.
" We have Potions class first today. Wanna walk together after breakfast? " Mika smiled and giggled as Silvina popped a forkful of pancake into her mouth and nodded happily as Aurora continued blushing brightly. After eating breakfast, Aurora, Mika and Silvina walked to potions class. As the classroom filled, Professor Patil spoke calmly.
" Welcome to Potions class everyone. I am Professor Patil. Now, Normally, I would have a lesson in mind but for today I would like to see your skill and ingenuity for myself. You may choose a recipe from your potions book and make it. I will assess each potion. Begin. " Professor Patil smiled sweetly before everyone in the class opened their potion books.
Silvina flicked through the recipes for potions until she found one that caught her eye. After collecting the ingredients listed, Silvina read the instructions from the book.
" Step one, Fill cauldron three quarters with water and boil. " Silvina filled her cauldron to the correct level before waiting for the water to boil. After the water began boiling, Silvina read the next step.
" Step two, Add shrivelfig and porcupine quills. " Silvina counted out the required amount of the ingredients before adding them to the cauldron, Causing it to bubble slightly before reading the next step.
" Step three, Stir four times anti-clockwise then add a sprig of peppermint to alleviate side effects. " Silvina picked up the stirring spoon beside her cauldron and stirring carefully four times anti-clockwise before adding peppermint. As the soothing smell of peppermint emanated from her cauldron, Silvina read the next step.
" Step four, Crush sopophouros beans to release juice and add juice to cauldron. " Silvina quickly counted out the required amount of beans before crushing them carefully in a small sieve, Releasing the juice into a small jar before tipping the jar into the cauldron slowly, Causing the cauldron to sizzle before she read the last step.
" Step five, Add wormwood and stir six times anti-clockwise. " Silvina added the wormwood before carefully stirring six times and sighing softly as the liquid in the cauldron slowly changed colour. As she finished stirring, The potion turned a sunshine yellow colour as a sweet scent filled the air around her. As Silvina motioned to call the professor, She looked startled as Professor Patil spoke from beside her.
" Euphoria. Interesting choice Silvina. The scent and colour are correct. Do I detect peppermint? " Professor Patil paused as Silvina spoke softly.
" Yes. The recipe said it would alleviate side effects. " Silvina stepped aside as Professor Patil picked up a small ladle before dipping it into the potion and taking a small sip before sighing and speaking softly.
" My my... How wonderful. The effect is instantaneous and the taste is quite lovely. The peppermint was added perfectly. It doesn't overpower the potions intended flavour and aroma. Very well done. Twenty points to Ravenclaw. " Professor Patil smiled sweetly before placing the ladle on the desk as Silvina sighed in relief.
After about forty five minutes, A loud bell rang through the school, Signalling the end of class. As Silvina, Aurora and Mika left the room, Silvina took her schedule out and realised their next class was Flying before they all smiled excitedly.
After hurrying to the large courtyard, Silvina, Aurora and Mika quickly noticed their brooms laying on the ground in neat rows before Silvina's face lit up and she rushed over and hugged Professor Vissity tightly as she spoke.
" Hi mum. " Silvina smiled sweetly as Professor Vissity petted her head lovingly.
" Hello sweetheart. Classes going well? " Professor Vissity paused for a moment but smiled as Silvina nodded happily. " Good. Go find your broom. "
As Silvina walked over to her broom, An obnoxious sounding voice filled the air.
" If it isn't the crybaby. You aren't going to get scared of air today are you? It might hurt you. " The girl laughed loudly as Professor Vissity shot her a disapproving look before Silvina spoke softly.
" Why do you do that? " Silvina had a curious expression on her face as the girl looked confused.
" Do what? " The girl looked insulted before Silvina spoke softly.
" You insult others to make yourself feel better but you are filled with loneliness. You could just say how you feel. I for one, Would happily try to help with it if you asked. " Silvina smiled sweetly but gasped as the girl stormed over and seized her shirt before pulling her close and speaking angrily.
" Pretty arrogant of you to speak like you know me. Don't try digging into my life bitch. I'll crush you like a bug. " The girl shoved Silvina to ground before storming away as Silvina stood and spoke as she dusted herself off.
" Just ask when you are ready. " Silvina smiled sweetly again as the girl whorled around with a furious look on her face before noticing that Silvina's smile was a mask and growling irritably before walking over and slapping Silvina, Causing her to fall to the ground again as the girl spoke forcefully.
" Why would I want your help? You can't even smile properly. Shut your mouth or I'll break your face. " The girl pressed Silvina's head to the ground with her foot before storming way again as Silvina sat up and fixed her hair while Professor Vissity hurried over and knelt down.
" Are you okay sweety? " Professor Vissity looked concerned but sighed softly as Silvina smiled toward her and spoke calmly.
" I'm okay. It hurt when she slapped me but she is just acting out. I'll get through to her eventually. " Silvina giggled softly as Professor Vissity smiled before Mika walked over and spoke.
" I don't know about that Via. That's Layla Morendi. She... Isn't the nicest person. She hates muggleborns with a vengeance and berates anyone that shows anything that she considers weakness. Some of the rumours about her are pretty scary. " Mika shivered for a moment before Silvina stood and dusted herself off before speaking.
" I don't think so Mika. She is suffering. I can see it in her eyes. She just needs someone that won't give up on her. " Silvina smiled sweetly before walking back to her broom and waiting as the other students stood beside brooms before Professor Vissity spoke.
" Alright first years. Put your hand over your broom and say up. " Professor Vissity watched calmly as several students including Silvina spoke and they're brooms immediately rose into they're open hand. Other brooms simply rolled around on the ground, Some sat motionless and one was even flying away from the first year that was attempting to use it.
" Those of you who need help will stay grounded for the time being. Everyone else mount your broom. " Professor Vissity observed the few students that had succeeded mount they're brooms while correcting any mistakes or improper mounting. After a few minutes, Silvina and the other first years were waiting for they're next instructions.
" Now then. How many of you have mastered the broom you have? " Professor Vissity smiled as three students including Silvina and Aurora raised they're hands. " Excellent. You three form a group and demonstrate formation flying. You have five minutes to discuss your formation and decide who will lead it. "
The three students walked away from the main group before talking amongst themselves. As Silvina and Aurora spoke, The young boy that had duelled Aurora walked over to Silvina and Aurora before speaking.
" My name is Jinn Duran. Pleased to meet you. " Jinn smiled at Silvina as she smiled and spoke.
" My name is Silvina Vissity and this is Aurora Shai. Nice to meet you. " Silvina smiled sweetly but looked confused as Aurora hid behind her nervously before speaking.
" H... Hello... " Aurora shivered lightly as Silvina giggled softly and spoke.
" Aurora is a little shy. She means well though. " Silvina smiled as Jinn chuckled softly and spoke.
" No problem. Most everyone else doesn't greet Slytherin's with much more than glares or snide remarks. I do hope we can be friends though. As weird as that might sound. " Jinn grinned happily as Silvina giggled and Aurora relaxed slightly and stepped out from behind Silvina as she spoke.
" It does sound weird but in a good way. I wouldn't have expected a Slytherin to want to be friends with anyone in other houses. " Aurora smiled slightly as Jinn roared with laughter for a moment before speaking.
" That's a first. Weird but good. I like that. So how about it? Friends? "Jinn grinned playfully as Silvina and Aurora nodded before Silvina spoke softly.
" You will fit in perfectly in our little circle. Aurora, Mika and I are all pretty weird. " Silvina giggled playfully as Aurora feigned insult and spoke teasingly.
" How dare you! I'll make you pay for that! " Aurora grinned impishly as Silvina poked her tongue out as Jinn laughed for a moment before speaking.
" As much fun as this is, We should discuss our formation. " Jinn smiled as Silvina nodded before Aurora spoke calmly.
" Actually, A hawkshead would be perfect. It's a formation chasers use in Quidditch. It's a pretty simple formation but with the three of u... " Aurora paused as she saw Jinn smiling and Silvina looking toward her cutely. " W... What... "
" You are just so cute when you geek out Aurora. " Silvina giggled teasingly as Aurora blushed brightly before speaking softly.
" It's the only idea I had... " Aurora looked away sheepishly but blushed as if her heart would explode as Silvina cupped her face and spoke sweetly.
" And it is perfect! Don't be sad Aurora. Now, Who should lead it? " Silvina stepped back as Aurora stood speechless for a moment before Jinn spoke.
" You should. Your mum said that you have mastered your broom. While I have a Firebolt, I have only had it for about a year. " Jinn smiled sheepishly as Aurora nodded and spoke.
" Same here. I haven't had my Firebolt long enough to have mastered it. You should lead. " Aurora smiled supportively but her smile faltered as Silvina squirmed nervously.
" I... I have... " Silvina whimpered softly before continuing. " I have never flown with anyone but mum. I don't know about this... "
" I have flown in this formation before. I will tell you everything you should know as the leader. We will both be right beside you the entire flight. If anything happens we can deal with it together. " Aurora smiled as Silvina looked at her with a smile and nodded. " Okay. As the leader you guide the two of us where you want to go. To direct us all you need to do is turn your head slightly in the direction you want to go. If you want us to turn left, look left. Right, look right. Look up to increase our formation altitude or down to decrease. "
" That is pretty simple... I just... " Silvina shivered for a moment before a small rain of colourful sparks shot out of her pocket, Causing her to panic for a moment. " No, No! I'm fine! "
" Breathe Silvina. " Aurora stepped forward and hugged Silvina gently, Causing her to breathe out slowly before relaxing and speaking softly.
" Thanks Aurora... It means so much that you are with me. " Silvina held onto Aurora tightly as Aurora blushed brightly for a few moments before stepping back as Silvina took a deep breathe and spoke.
" Okay I think I can do this... Let's go. " Silvina spoke softly and smiled as the three walked back to Professor Vissity and told her they were ready.
" Alright. Stand in formation and mount your brooms. When you are in the air try to stay coordinated. If anything happens I will intervene. Take off when you are ready. " Professor Vissity watched quietly as Silvina, Aurora and Jinn moved into formation before Silvina looked to Jinn and Aurora nervously.
After they smiled back, The three took off and flew upwards in formation. As they flew, Silvina tilted her head to the right before flying in the direction she was looking as Jinn and Aurora followed in perfect sync. After several manuevers and flying around the courtyard in perfect formation, Silvina, Aurora and Jinn landed carefully.
As they dismounted and smiled to each other, Professor Vissity walked over and spoke calmly. " Well done. The three of you displayed masterful flying and formation synchronisation. You may rest while I see to the rest of the group. "
Silvina smiled as Professor Vissity tousled her hair gently before walking back to the other first years to help them.
As Silvina looked up at the sky, Aurora nudged her arm gently. " See? I knew you could do it. "
" Aurora is right. I couldn't have lead a formation like that. You were awesome Silvina. " Jinn smiled as Silvina giggled.
" Thanks you two. It means a lot to me. Not only that you both motivated me to lead but also that you both want to be my friends. Thank you for that. " Silvina smiled happily as a bell signalled the end of class.
As Silvina checked her schedule, She saw that Transfiguration was the next class before Silvina, Aurora, Jinn and Mika walked to the classroom. As they entered, Jinn spoke nervously.
" I... Uhm... I have never been any good at Transfiguration spells. The most basic one my mum taught was a... Well... Disaster.. " Jinn looked down sadly before Aurora spoke.
" It's okay Jinn. Silvina, Mika and I will help you. We can sit together in classes and help each other. We do have all the same classes anyway so why not? " Aurora smiled as Jinn sighed.
Silvina giggled happily before speaking. " Aurora is right. Why should we struggle on our own if we can work together? I like this plan. "
After sitting down together, Silvina, Aurora, Mika and Jinn talked amongst themselves for a few minutes before Professor Bell entered the room as the room quickly fell silent.
" Welcome to Transfiguration class. In this class you will learn to transform objects into other objects. The spell we will learn today is a good example. Reparifarge.
This spell counters the effects of a failed Transfiguration such as an animal that is only partially transfigured. As Transfiguration magic is dangerous, Learning the spell Reparifarge is essential. As you can see on your desks there are an assortment of poorly transfigured objects. You will practice Reparifarge on these objects for today's lesson. Please read the section on Reparifarge in your Beginners guide to Transfiguration. " Professor Bell spoke calmly before walking around the room and observing the students practising.
" I... I'm not sure I can do this... " Jinn spoke softly with a blatantly obvious lack of confidence before Silvina spoke.
" You can do it Jinn. I know you can. Just take a deep breathe and try your best. " Silvina smiled as Jinn nodded and took a breathe before looking down at the half transfigured book in front of him on the desk.
" Alright... Reparifarge! " Jinn spoke clearly and pointed his wand at the half transfigured book. After a moment, The book trembled before transforming back into a complete book. " I did it! "
As Jinn smiled happily, Mika, Aurora and Silvina giggled and practised the spell themselves. After roughly half an hour, A bell sounded signalling the end of the lesson. After leaving the Transfiguration classroom, Silvina noticed that they had a free period before speaking softly.
" I am gonna go for a walk for a while. I'll see you all at dinner. " Silvina smiled as the others nodded before leaving the classroom and walking toward the lake.
Chapter 3
End