The Owl House Season 2 Episode 9 – Sparda Kresnik

Hey guys! I'm back with a new chapter! And I've recently published some new artwork on Deviantart, three of which are Luke x Amity scenes. If you're interested in seeing them early feel free to subscribe.

For this chapter, Eda tells Luke, King, Hooty and Repede the story of how she met the most badass and legendary witch of all time: Sparda Kresnik.

Speaking of Sparda I'm still debating on changing his name to Ludger. I've received multiple responses regarding this topic. Each day I'm more and more tempted to go through with the change. But we'll cross that bridge before my next chapter. For now, enjoy this one!

And let me know what you think of Young Sparda and Qrow.

At the Owl House, Luke and Eda are sitting on the couch looking over one of Eda's old photo albums while Repede and King are napping next to the table. Luke is being shown old photos, mainly ones of his dad.

Luke: Whoa! My dad and uncle really did that?

Eda: Yup! They sure did.

Among other photos of Sparda, Eda, Lilith, Qrow, and Raine when they were Hexside students, Luke is currently looking at a photo of his father pranking a satanic-looking teacher. Sparda and Qrow were laughing behind the corner of a wall after having drawn on the teacher's face, enraging him.

Eda: Your old man was quite the prankster back in the old days, almost as good as me. He and Qrow made it a little side mission out of pranking our old Principal Faust every week.

Eda flips a page, showing a photo of Sparda and Eda laughing at Odalia, who was covered in bile thrown up on her by a griffin and screaming in embarrassment.

Eda: Oh! Now, here's a good one! This was a prank Spard and I did together. We overfed a griffin and had it throw up on your girlfriend's mom. It took her weeks to shower off the smell and even longer to get her rep back.

Luke bursts into laughter, both at the prank and Amity's tyrannical mother.

Luke: Oh man! My dad was hilarious!

Eda points to another photo of her, Sparda, Qrow, Lilith, and Raine drawing moustaches on all the students who had fallen asleep.

Eda: And this was when we had spiked everyone's lunch with sleeping nettles and drew moustaches on their faces.

The next photo is of Sparda and Aelita sitting at a table, sharing a milkshake together via two straws as they exchange romantic gazes. The photo beside it is Aelita doing a spit-take on Sparda and going red with embarrassment after seeing their picture get taken.

Eda: And this was your mom and dad's first date together. I may have spied on them a little to get a few embarrassing pics.

Luke spots a photo of Eda and Raine eating some kind of candy kebab at a carnival with Lilith secretly glaring at them, probably mad about being a third wheel.

Luke: Who's this?

Luke points to Raine, causing her to frown in guilt, remembering that they got captured.

Eda: Oh. That's another old friend of mine, Raine Whispers.

Luke: Were they a part of your friend group, too?

Eda: Yeah. They were the 5th member to join our little group. Speaking of the old gang, here are three of my favourite photos.

Eda flips the page, showing a selfie of her, Lilith, Qrow, and Sparda smiling for the scroll together, with Eda taking the picture.

Eda: This was taken when we first made our group. We called ourselves the Hex-Squad.

Luke: Hex-Squad!? Hey, that's my group's name!

Eda: Eda snorts a little. Sorry, kid. Your dad beat you to it. But hey, you're welcome to call yourselves that if you like. Not like we use that name anymore these days.

Next is a photo of Sparda, Eda, Lilith, Qrow, Raine, and Aelita smiling together for the camera, wearing human clothes. Aelita was kissing Sparda, Eda and Lilith had their arms wrapped around each other (the Owl Lady was playing the bunny ear prank on her sister), and Qrow had brought in Raine for a noogie, which caused them to laugh.

Eda: This was taken after we met your mom, and she became part of our group.

Eda takes out a photo from her hair and presents it to Luke.

Eda: And this… this is my favourite.

Eda and her friends, as adults in their 20s, were taking a picture together. Back then, Eda and Lilith still had orange hair. Sparda was leaning his free elbow on Force Edge, which was stuck in the ground, while clutching Yamato's handle. Qrow was resting Harbinger on his shoulder, Eda rested her Owl Staff on both her shoulders, Lilith held her Raven Staff by her side, Raine held their lute and bow together, and Aelita leaned against a tree, hands behind her back. All were smiling at the camera.

As they look at the photo, King and Repede jump onto Luke's shoulders, getting a view of the photo.

Eda: This was our first get-together in years. Look at us, kid. We were in our prime back in those days.

Luke: Yeah, for a bunch of old people.

King and Repede laugh at that while Eda gives Luke a glare.

Eda: Very funny, kid.

Luke: You know, Eda, I've been wondering. You and my old man were really close. How'd you end up meeting?

Eda: Eda grins at that. I was wondering when you'd finally ask them. Do you want me to tell you in a bedtime story format or backstory format?

Luke: Do I look 5 to you? Tell me in the backstory format. Duh!

Eda laughs and holds up her hands, walking away from Luke.

Eda: Okay, okay, just messing with you.

She sets a chair in front of the table, sits down, and gets ready to tell the story.

Eda: This is the story of how I met THE coolest, most badass, and powerful witch on the Boiling Isles. This is the story of how I met Sparda Kresnik.

Owl House Season 2B Intro

The eye of the old portal door opens, engulfed in flames.

Luke (with blue hair and new outfit) drops down with Rebellion and a Glyph Gun, giving his gun a spin and swung his sword as it opens, releasing electricity while he grins. Repede pops up from his shoulder.

Eda (in her new outfit) slides in from her right, spinning her Owl Staff and swinging to release energy. King pops up from her hair.

Willow emerges and lifts her arms as her eyes glow, summoning huge vines behind. Clover flies next to her.

Gus comes in with a book, summoning two illusions of himself striking poses besides him. Emmeline jumps onto his head.

Amity (with purple hair) twirls in from her right and with a grin her hands glow with purple energy, summoning Abomination goo. Ghost jumps onto her shoulder.

Lilith (in her new outfit and glasses) slides in from the left, spinning her Raven Staff and swinging to release energy like Eda did. Hooty pops out of her clock backpack.

Hunter (minus his mask, tunic or cloak) flash steps from the left with his Cardinal Staff. It turns into Flapjack happily chirping as he draws and swings Yamato, striking a pose and releasing a blade of energy.

A Boiling Isle mural appears, three windows flipping to briefly reveal Qrow, Darius and Eberwolf. The windows flip to reveal Qrow in his Devil Form, Darius in his Abomination form and Eberwolf in his Beast form.

Belos appears striking a powerful pose, his castle behind him as lightning strikes

Luke rode on his Wolf Staff like surfboard, zooming past Bonesborough, flying past Tinella Nosa, sharing a high-five with Gus, Willow being beside him with a plant releasing vines and evading guards that chase him down. Eda and King join in on the fun, riding Owl Staff together. After getting high enough Luke and Eda jump off, transforming into Devil Luke and Harpy Eda with Repede and King riding on them respectively. They have blast taking to the skies, even when they're chased by a massive monstrous worm-like monster lunging at them.

Then the scene changes back to the Owl House, where it's night-time, and stars twinkle in the sky as the quartet are on the roof and looking up into the sky, Harpy Eda holding her staff beside her, Devil Luke holding Rebellion downward with Repede and King riding his other shoulder. Luke and Eda revert back to normal and Luke, Repede and King share a look together. Luke opens a hand, sending a ball of light floating into the sky where it bursts to release a blinding flash.

Owl House: The Son of Sparda

We go back over 30 years ago to when Eda and Lilith were 13-year-old teenagers and students of Hexside. The two are walking towards Hexside, wearing their uniforms (plus a jacket for Eda), along with other students. Passing by them are familiar people like Alador, Odalia, Darius, and Perry as Lilith holds her book and Eda dribbles her Grudgby ball.

Eda: I am so looking forward to Grudgby Season in a week! What about you, Lily?

Lilith: Me too! I've got dozens of new strategies we can work on!

Eda balances the ball on her head.

Eda: Pfft! She bounces it up and catches it. Who needs strategies when you have me? And my secret weapon… She got out her cheat box from her hair. My Cheat Box. Everything we need to win is here.

Lilith: Ugh. Edalyn, please don't use that stupid cheat box. Honesty, it's embarrassing every time you use it. I'm surprised we've never been disqualified.

Eda: That's because cheaters always prosper. Otherwise, I wouldn't be the star player now, would I? We can't all be nerds.

Lilith rolls her eyes, and the sisters continue walking, Eda dribbling her ball again.

Lilith: So, did you finish your report on a Selkidomus?

Eda: Sure, I did. Selkidomus' are remarkably adept to the Boiling Ocean. Furthermore, they can swim.

Eda laughs while Lilith gives an unimpressed frown.

Lilith: You know, if you get graded for being a dingus, I'm sure you'd get an A.

Eda mischievously walks ahead, dropping the ball down to play around with it using her foot.

Eda: Well, you'll get an A for… Think fast!

Eda kicks her ball up and jumps to deliver a spin kick, sending it flying towards Lilith, who drops her books. Catching it effortlessly without looking, holding it, and turning with a smirk.

Lilith: Nice try, sister. She spins the ball on her finger. But I am team captain for a reason, you know. At least make it a challenge.

She tosses the ball back to Eda, who also gives a smirk.

Eda: Oh-ho! You want a challenge, dear sister? Well, you got it!

Eda tosses up and kicks her ball again, and Lilith responds with a spin kick of her own. Eda punches the ball, and Lilith leaps up to catch the ball and tosses it back to Eda. She quickly turns and casts a spell circle, engulfing her Grudgby ball in flames, prompting her to give an evil cackle.

Eda: Let's turn the heat up a little.

One more time, Eda tosses up the ball and leaps to deliver the strongest kick she can deliver. Lilith gasps to see the flaming ball and ducks. She doesn't get a chance to ridicule her sister for cheating as the Clawthorne Sisters see the ball is about to smash right into a hooded boy. The two of them gasp in horror.

Eda: Look out!

The boy turns in time to see the ball heading towards him. With no time to think, the boy kicks the ball up and executes a flip kick.

Boy: Think fast!

The ball is sent flying, even faster than when Eda threw it. Lilith yelps and gets out of the way, but her sister has no time to react. Eda ends up crying out in pain when the ball smacks her right in the face, bouncing off. Eda falls on her back with a groan, her face covered in some bruises, and Lilith runs over to help her sit up.

Lilith: Are you okay?

Eda: Eda clutches her forehead. Yeah, I'm fine. Ow! That smarts.

Boy: Heh, sorry. Thought you'd duck.

Eda and Lilith look up to see the boy. He is dressed in the same uniform as them; his sleeves are dark blue, meaning he's in the Weaponry Coven; his eyes are blue, and his face is white and screams confidence. He holds up a finger with one hand stuffed in his pocket, magically holding the ball next to him with a grin.

Boy: Little slow, aren't ya, lady?

Eda: Eda glares, not taking that well. Funny. I'll make a note of that. She groans again, touching her cheek. Dude, you have a heck of a kick.

Lilith casts a spell circle in front of her sister's face, and it engulfs her, healing her bruises and burns.

Lilith: He said he was sorry. Lilith stands up, facing the boy with a friendly smile. Apologies for her, but I think you may have made a new enemy. You're new, aren't you?

Boy: Yeah. My brother and I just transferred from Glandus.

Lilith: Well, welcome to Hexside. We're-

Boy: No need. Already heard of you ladies. The Clawthorne Sisters, right? One of you is an obedient Grudgby captain. The other's a Grudgby star that made a reputation of being a mischievous annoyance.

Eda: Eda shoots up, angry. Annoyance?! Who's been saying that about me?

Lilith: I don't know. That's a long list.

Eda: Whatever. Can I have my ball back?

With a wave of his finger, the boy tosses the ball, and Eda catches it.

Eda: So, you got a name or what?

The boy removes his hood, revealing himself to be none other than Luke's father, Sparda Kresnik, when he was a teenager, slightly younger than his son in the future. Eda and Lilith can't deny he looks quite handsome, and his blue hair really stands out.

Eda: Huh. A blue hair.

Sparda: You're not really one to talk about hair colour. And to answer your question, my name is-

Boy 2: Hey, Spard.

Sparda turns around to see another boy standing by the stairs. It was his brother, Qrow Argus, when he was also a teenager. Like his brother, he wears the uniform with dark blue sleeves and leggings, obviously also a Weaponry Coven student. And his hair was a little spikier, too. He's resting Harbinger on his shoulder.

Qrow: Come on, we gotta go. We've wasted enough time.

Sparda: Yeah, yeah. Lighten up, Qrow. I'm coming. Sparda smiles at the sisters, giving a two-fingered salute. I'll be seeing you ladies later.

With that, he walks off, joining his brother and going into the building. Eda is slightly annoyed, while Lilith is slightly impressed.

Lilith: Wow. First time I've ever met someone who can top your smart sass mouth.

Eda: Pfft. Jerk.

Lilith: Lilith teasingly smirks. But he's a cute jerk. You're just mad because he stopped your flaming Grudgby Ball. No one's ever done that before.

The sisters walk inside the school, with Eda spinning her ball.

Eda: Oh, please. It was a lucky shot.

Lilith: I'm just saying you might have just found yourself a new rival.

Eda: Yeah, right. Like this new guy is gonna one-up me on his first day. Lilith deadpans. I don't like to brag, but I've never lost a single witch's duel. Ever.

Lilith: Actually, you do like to brag. All the time.

Eda: Whatever. I bet I can beat this guy in a witch's duel, easy.

A couple classes later, the students are all in front of a younger Principal Bump, Vice Principal at the time. They're standing in Hexside's backyard, eager for the duels and also wondering where their current principal is.

Bump: Good tidings, students. To those of you who aren't aware, Principal Faust is away for the week on business at Glandus and St. Epiderm.

The students all erupt with cheers of joy. Obviously, whoever this Principal Faust is, he is not well-loved around Hexside.

Bump: Yes, yes, you won't have to worry about being suspended or given detentions for the week. Now then, let's get these witch's duel started. Edalyn, step forward.

With a cocky smirk, Eda takes off her jacket, handing it over to Lilith.

Eda: Lily, hold my jacket. This'll be over in two minutes.

Lilith watches her younger sister walk to Bump, gunning him.

Eda: Hey, Vice Princey B…

Bump: Please, don't call me that. Now, who here would like to be Edalyn's opponent?

None of the students respond. Some cough and some rub their arms nervously as no one wants to duel Eda. Not only because of her unbeatable winning streak but also because sometimes those who duel Eda end up in the nurse's office. Just as it seems like Bump is going to pick someone, a hand shoots up.

Sparda: I'll do it.

Everyone gasps in disbelief to see the hand is Sparda's with a confident grin on his face as he stands next to Qrow, who has his arms crossed. Eda and Lilith are surprised to see the same boy they met at the entrance.

Bump: Aah. The new student. Sparda, is it? Very well, then, step forward.

As Sparda walks up, the students murmur in disbelief.

Student 1: Isn't he one of the new students? From Glandus?

Student 2: Is he crazy!?

Student 3: That kid's gonna get creamed!

Student 4: I do not wanna be him right now.

Student 5: I heard he and his brother are prodigies. Maybe he's got a chance.

Sparda stops in front of Eda face-to-face.

Eda: Hey, it's you!

Sparda: Sup.

Bump: You two have already met?

Sparda: Yeah, we met this morning.

Bump: Well, that spares me some trouble. Now Edalyn, please, can you try to take it easy for once? Do not send our new student to the nurse's office… or the Healing Coven.

Eda: Eda shrugs uncaringly. Meh. Not making any promises. Not my fault if the new guy can't take a hit.

Bump sighs in annoyance and just walks off to join the students, leaving just Eda and Sparda to face each other.

Eda: Dude, since you're new here, I'll try to go easy on you. Eda arrogantly crosses her arms. Just don't cry if you lose.

Sparda: Sparda has his hands stuffed in his pocket. Don't worry about me, lady. You should worry about yourself. You know, considering how slow you are.

Eda's eye twitches, but she tries to remain composed.

Eda: That was a lucky cheap shot, and you know it.

Sparda: Oh, I've heard that one before.

Eda: What's that supposed to mean?

Sparda: Figure that out for yourself, Red.

Eda: Red? Eda snorts a little. That's your best nickname for me, Bluey?

Sparda: Sparda just grins. Oh, I've got tons of other nicknames for you, lady. And trust me, they'll make you red with rage.

Eda grumbles a little until she notices the sword attached to Sparda's waist. The Yamato when it originally belonged to him.

Eda: Nice sword you got there. But… other Weaponry students have used better weapons and, in the end, they're no match for my innate talents and… She flicks the back of her hair. This.

Sparda: Yeah, I'm not seeing the appeal.

Eda widens her eyes; the students, especially Lilith, gasp, Qrow snickers, and Sparda gives an unimpressed look.

Alador: Uh-oh.

Eda: What did you just say?

Sparda: I literally see nothing appealing about you. As for the "innate talent" part, I seriously doubt you have any of that. Are you sure you're the best witch and star player this place has to offer? Because after this morning… I'm so not seeing it either Turkeyhead.

The students and Lilith gasp even louder. This guy just mocked Eda right to her face, and they know how she gets when her pride is insulted. Eda herself was going red, embarrassed.

Eda: Turkeyhead? Did you just call me a turkeyhead!?

Sparda: Well… yeah, your hair makes it obvious.

Odalia: He's dead.

Lilith, Alador, Darius, and Odalia then hear laughter and see that it is coming from Qrow. The four go up to him to cover his mouth and muffle his laughter.

Alador: Shut up, you idiot!

Darius: You newbies have big mouths! And one day, they'll be the end of you both!

Qrow: Qrow merely scoffs. By who? The red-haired turkey? Please.

Lilith: Be quiet! Bad enough, he's picking on Eda, but do you want her to go on a rampage and kill us all!?

Suddenly, they feel a chill up their spines and turn around to see a red aura surrounding Eda and her hair overshadowing her eyes. When she opens her eyes, they are glowing orange and an evil smirk forms on her face.

Eda: Oh, ho, ho! It is so on! Screw going easy. I'm going to pulverize you!

Qrow: She seems upset. Was it something someone said?

Odalia: "Was it something someone said?" Maybe she didn't hear that "red-haired turkey" comment.

Eda: She turns to Qrow. And once I'm done with Blue, I'm coming for you, buddy!

Darius: Or maybe she did. At least she's focused on these two.

Bump: Okay. If both students are ready… Begin!

Sparda and Eda are standing a couple of distances, ready for their duel. Eda forms a spell circle. creating two fireballs in her hands, and Sparda clutches his scabbard, bringing it up. The students and Bump watch silently, Lilith looking nervous and Qrow looking sure of himself. The moment the wind blows, Eda narrows her eyes, and Sparda pokes Yamato out of the scabbard, clutching its hilt. The duel begins.

Sparda and Eda rush each other with battle cries, the blue-haired boy drawing his sword to slice her, only for his opponent to grin, erasing her fireballs and sliding underneath the sword, tripping Sparda up in the process. The new student lands on his back but quickly jumps back up, performing a couple of cartwheels backward. He stops and clutches his sword and scabbard in a stance.

Eda: Still think I'm not talented.

Sparda: Hmm. Not bad.

Sparda spins his katana and sheathes it back into its scabbard, much to Eda's confusion as he stands straight. With a grin, he forms two spell circles on his wrists. Forming from them are two guns. One is Storm, and the other is a blue version of it, Thunder. Sparda spins his dual pistols and takes aim.

Eda: Whoa! What are those things!?

Sparda: I believe humans call them guns.

Sparda shoots a couple of energy bullets, prompting Eda to wave fire with her finger to deflect. Sparda follows up by shooting a barrage of bullets, and Eda charges through, deflecting them with her magic and leaping up. Her fists become engulfed in flames, and she drops down to punch Sparda, only for him to flip to the side and then leap past the rebel, all while shooting her, but she continues to deflect with waves of flames from her fingers. Sparda lands and slides back, shooting a couple more bullets that Eda deflects before she forms a larger spell circle to send out a blast of energy. Sparda flips into the air, dodging the blast and firing more bullets that Eda dodges before lunging at him with a spin kick that he jumps away from, cartwheeling back again and stopping on his feet to spin his guns and take aim with them. Eda holds up fireballs in her hand.

Eda: Ugh. Shooting, shooting, shooting. Don't you know any spells?

Sparda: You want a spell? Fine. I'll give it to you.

Sparda traces a large spell circle and sends out a barrage of sharp blue energy swords, prompting Eda to toss her fireballs, clashing with the swords in an explosion. Eda shields herself for a bit, then waits for the smoke to clear until Sparda flies out of the smoke, drawing Yamato to slice Eda, prompting her to quickly form a barrier, blocking his strike. Sparda jumps back and then tosses Yamato after landing, the blade cutting through the barrier that Eda is actually struggling to hold. Sparda leaps, catching Yamato, and lands to swing up his sword, unleashing an energy blade that shatters the barrier and sends Eda screaming. She roughly lands on the ground with a grunt, causing all the students to gasp, except Qrow, who merely grins.

Lilith: Edalyn!

Student 1: Is Eda actually struggling?

Student 2: Wow! This guy is good!

Qrow: Hmph.

Eda gets back up just as Sparda lunges at her with another swing. The youngest Clawthorne summons her Owl Staff, and with a spin, she deflects Sparda's swing, sending him back. He lands on the ground, and both lunge at each other, clashing their weapons and engaging in a deadlock. The two grin as they push.

Sparda: Not bad… for a turkey-haired girl.

Eda: You're not so bad yourself… for a spiky-haired boy.

The two witches break their deadlock and exchange fast swings with their weapons. Sparda's three swings keep meeting Eda's spins and swings, blow for blow. She then launches a couple thrusts that Sparda evades, then flips up, landing up behind her. Eda turns to swing, only for Sparda to easily stop her staff with his katana before using his scabbard to smack it, sending Eda back, surprising her as Sparda stands in a stance.

Sparda: My scabbard's also a weapon.

Eda growls and lunges at Sparda, only for him to dodge and deflect each of her swings and thrusts.

Sparda: Watch your feet!

Sparda smacks her kneecap with his scabbard.

Eda: Ow!

Eda stumbles away, annoyed.

Sparda: Ooh! I love a fast woman!

Eda: Shut up!

She lunges with a swing that Sparda deflects, a kick that he dodges, and when she thrusts her staff, the new student stops it with his katana. Eda cries out in pain when Sparda smacks her wrist with his scabbard, causing her to release the Owl Staff and allowing Sparda to sweep Eda off her feet and send her screaming with a hard, well-placed kick in the stomach. Eda lands hard on her back with a grunt.

Sparda: You mad at me? It feels like you're mad at me.

Eda lifts herself back up, growling. She holds out her hand, and the Owl Staff flies back into her hand for her to spin it, tracing a fiery spell circle and launching a barrage of fireballs. But to everyone's shock, Sparda rapidly spins Yamato around, cancelling out the fireballs. The katana even catches some of them, and Sparda lines them up on the ground. With a swing of his sword, Sparda sends fireballs back to Eda, prompting her to form a barrier again, blocking them, only for Sparda to unleash two energy blades, shattering the barrier and allowing the fireballs through. Eda tries to shield herself but ends up crying out in pain when one of her flames ends up burning her elbow.

She clutches it in agony and growls at Sparda, who sheathes his katana with a grin. The students are all amazed at the sight of Eda losing, and Lilith is in shock.

Lilith: I've never seen Eda struggle like this before. Who is this guy?

She looks to Qrow, who still has his arms crossed. When he notices, he gives her a grin, leaving Lilith to wonder who these boys are.

Eda: Mind telling me why you just sheathed your sword? She smirks, while still clutching her elbow. You giving up or something?

Sparda: You're not really in a position to ask me that, turkey head.

Eda growls at that nickname and lunges at Sparda again with her staff, only for him to knock her back with his sheathed sword. She spins her staff and thrusts only for Sparda to catch it, then tosses Eda over his shoulder. She recovers by mounting on her staff and flying around. She jumps off to punch Sparda with a flaming fist, only for him to hold out Yamato and partially bring out his blade to block.

Sparda: Nice try.

Sparda swings out his sword, the force of which sends Eda flying and screaming towards the other students. She crashes into some of them, groaning in pain with them. Lilith runs over to her sister.

Lilith: Edalyn! Are you alright!?

Eda lifts herself up, glaring at Sparda, who sheathes his sword again. Bump stands in the same place, smiling.

Bump: I think we have our victor.

Eda: No way! I'm far from done!

Eda leaps into the air, diving down towards Sparda, who summons his guns to shoot down the youngest Clawthorne. Eda spins her staff, deflecting the bullets and launching a swing that Sparda quickly ducks and rolls to the side from. When Eda lunges at him, he quickly dismisses his guns and draws Yamato, only for her to slide under and bolt up with a fiery fist. With a punch, Yamato is sent flying high up the air, much to Sparda's surprise as he stumbles back. Eda grins victoriously.

Eda: Not so tough without your little sword, aren't you?

Sparda: Sparda grins. Good thing I've got a backup.

Sparda brings out a sword handle from his cowl: his signature weapon, Force Edge. With a swing, the blade opens, releasing a small surge of light and electricity.

Eda: You have another sword!? How many weapons do you have!?

Sparda: I've got plenty.

Sparda swings his sword down, releasing a gust of wind and electricity that forces Eda to shield herself, as do some of the other students.

Lilith: What power!

Odalia: Never thought I'd see Eda having such a hard time.

Alador: Yeah.

Sparda and Eda lunge at each other again with battle cries, trading blows with their weapons. Owlbert flares with energy as Eda spins her staff, forcing Sparda back as he deflects her blow. When she swipes his leg, Sparda jumps and Eda launches a kick to the stomach that sends him back. He manages to land on his feet just as Eda spins her staff, tracing a large spell circle and thrusting it to unleash an orange energy beam. Sparda responds by jumping and thrusting his sword forward to unleash several lightning bolts. They collide with the beam in an explosion that forces the students to shield themselves again.

The two witches lunge at each other again, trading swings and spins with their weapons. Eda spins her staff, and Sparda deflects; the blue-haired witch launches a swing that the youngest Clawthorne blocks with the back of her staff, and then they exchange three swings/spins left and right. Eda thrusts her staff, only for Sparda to dodge and slice Eda's thighs, spilling some blood. Eda cries out and clutches her bleeding thigh, turning to glare at Sparda.

Sparda: Ready to call it quits?

Eda: Like hell I am!

Sparda: Ooh. Feisty. I like that.

Eda and Sparda charge each other, engaging in a clash. They exchange a couple swings; Sparda dodges Eda's next one and parries the one after. They eventually clash in another deadlock, sparks grinding from their weapons as they push against each other with all their strength. But the blue-haired witch proves himself stronger as he slowly forces Eda down. She groans, pushing with all her strength, but is eventually forced to one knee. With an electrified swing, Sparda sends Eda screaming. She hits the ground hard with a grunt, falling on her face.

Lilith: Edalyn!

Darius: He's good.

Student 1: Wow! He's kicking Eda's butt!

Perry: And he doesn't have a single scratch on him!

Sparda rests Force Edge on his shoulder as he watches Eda struggling to get up, using her staff to help her stand as she pants in agony. She's wounded, her face covered in burn marks and bruises, her outfit a little torn, her elbow has a burn mark, and her thigh is still bleeding.

Eda: I don't get it… I'm getting my butt kicked, and this guy hasn't broken a sweat. And I've been at Hexside for years. She pants harder, looking at Sparda. Who is he?

Sparda: Look, lady, you're a good fighter and all. But it's clear you're outmatched. You can't fight with those wounds. No one's gonna talk smack if you back out now.

Eda: Eda glares, insulted. Is that another way of making fun of me? I don't need your pity! She clutches her staff in a stance. I'm the best witch at this school, and I'm gonna prove it.

Sparda: Sparda smiles, impressed. He swings his sword down. A woman of guts and honour. I like that.

Eda channels her magic through her staff, causing Owlbert to become coated in gold energy. The two witches charge and leap at each other once again for a strike until Sparda catches Yamato, which falls from the air. He lands on the ground, and when Eda closes in to smack him with her staff, he crosses his blades, catching and stopping Eda. The youngest Clawthorne pushes with all her strength but is unable to overpower Sparda or escape his blades. The blue-haired boy tightens his grip and skillfully tosses it into the air along with his swords, disarming Eda of her staff.

Eda: No!

She gasps when Sparda leaps forward, delivering a strong kick to her face that sends her screaming in pain. When he lands, he throws his scabbard and sends it flying with a well-placed flip kick. It smashes into Eda's stomach, halting her above the ground and causing her to gasp for air. He then holds out his hand, and Yamato comes flying back towards him. He rushes towards his opponent and sheathes his katana back into its scabbard before pummeling Eda with a barrage of rapid jabs and thrusts. He is so fast that the students are struggling to keep up with his movements. With one strong thrust, Sparda sends Eda screaming and sprawling across the ground.

She claws into the grass, and just as she gets up, Sparda dashes in (with Yamato reattached to his waist) and delivers a punch to her stomach. Eda cries out in pain and lands hard on her back. Her opponent catches Force Edge with a chuckle. Before she can move, Sparda steps on her wrist, pinning her to the ground, and Eda gasps when the tip of Force Edge is pointed right at her chin. Sparda is looking down on her with a victorious grin. Eda can't believe… she actually just lost her a duel for the first time.

Sparda: And that's checkmate.

Eda: Who… who are you?

Principal Bump walks over, smiling.

Bump: That's enough. I believe we have our winner. Excellent, Sparda!

Eda: Sparda?

All the students (except Odalia) give a round of applause, cheering for the new student.

Student 4: That guy's amazing!

Student 5: He toppled the tyrant of Hexside!

Student 6: Is he single!? I want him to be single!

Lilith: Edalyn!

After Sparda gets off Eda, Lilith runs over to her sister, who lifts herself up, groaning and clutching her stomach in agony.

Lilith: Eda, are you alright!?

Eda: Yeah. I'm fine. I-

Eda groans again, feeling a sharp pain in her gut. She and Lilith stare at Sparda, resting his sword on his shoulder and giving everyone a wave.

Sparda: Thank you. Thank you. I'm here all day. Sparda gives Eda a grin. You put up a good fight. Better luck next time, Red.

He gives a two-fingered salute and walks off, leaving Eda to fume angrily, which worries Lilith.

Lilith: Eda. Are you sure you're okay?

Eda doesn't respond, merely watching as all the students swarm over Sparda, who shares a couple of low fives with Qrow, causing her to growl in rage as she struggles to process. She's finally met her match.

After classes and a couple more witch's duels, school had ended. Lilith and Eda are in the Healing Homeroom, the former patching up her younger sister. Eda is covered in a couple of band-aids; her forehead is wrapped in a bandage, and her thigh has a bandage wrapped around it. Lilith uses wet cotton wool to softly touch her burnt elbow. Eda cries out from the sting.

Eda: OW! That hurts!

Lilith: Hold still, you big baby!

Eda: Eda groans. How embarrassing.

Lilith: That's what you get for being so cocky.

Eda: Shut up; I'd like to see you do better! She feels another sting. OW!

Lilith: Lilith finishes patching her elbow. Yeah, but at least I wouldn't whine about it. Lilith steps back. Okay, now stay still. Fortunately, no one's here to see me use different magic.

Lilith forms a spell circle above Eda, and it moves through her, healing her entire body and repairing her uniform.

Lilith: There. That oughta do it.

Eda: Thanks, Lil.

Eda sighs sadly and lies back on her bench, worrying Lilith, who sits down next to her sister.

Lilith: Hey. You okay?

Eda: What do you think? I just got my butt kicked by a new student and humiliated in front of the entire class.

Lilith: Come on, don't let it get to you, Eda. It was just one loss. Everyone loses eventually. I mean, look at me. I've lost a couple of my witch's duels, and that doesn't bother me.

Eda: Yeah, but I've never lost a single duel. I'm supposed to be the strongest here! And then some new guy comes and totally upstages me! Eda sighs in depression as she sits up. I'm just not sure how to deal with that.

Lilith: Lilith rubs her shoulder. Come on, Edalyn, there's no need to be sad. You did great back there. You couldn't have known a new student could be that good.

Eda: Just who was that guy? No one I've met was ever that good.

Lilith: I… have heard rumours about two witch prodigies at Glandus. And considering this boy transferred from Glandus, something tells me there was some truth to those rumours. Eda's face drops, but Lilith smiles comfortingly. But don't let that bother you, little sister. You're still a great witch.

Eda: Eda smiles a little. Thanks, Lil. But I'm still bummed out I'm no longer the best. The whole school's probably gonna razz about this forever.

Lilith: It's not so bad. I mean, you're still the best Grudgby player. So, there's that.

Hearing this causes an idea to pop into Eda's head, making her widen her eyes with renewed vigor.

Eda: Yeah… YEAH! She grabs Lilith by the shoulder. Lily, you're a genius!

Lilith: Uh… what?

Eda: If I can't beat this guy in a witch's duel, I'll beat him at what I do best! Grudgby! I'll just challenge him to a Grudgby match and kick his butt! That oughta make us even!

Eda kisses her sister and proceeds to run off. Lilith quickly blocks her sister's path.

Lilith: Whoa, whoa! Eda, let's slow down a sec. You're not serious about challenging him to a Grudgby match, are you?

Eda: I am serious! Why wouldn't I be? I mean, you said I'm the best Grudgby player.

Lilith: Yeah, but I didn't mean you should recklessly challenge that boy to a game of Grudgby. Eda, we barely know anything about him, and he beat you in a witch's duel! We don't know what else he's capable of. Also, considering the way he deflected your Grudgby ball, I'm pretty sure he's just as good at Grudgby as you are.

Eda: Well, I won't know that 'till I challenge him.

Lilith: Eda, can't you just let this go?

Eda: Lily, that blue-haired jerk broke my winning streak and embarrassed me in front of the entire class. I can't just let this stand.

Lilith: But what if you lose again, Eda?

Eda: A look of determination crosses Eda's face. I won't. Not this time.

Eda runs past her older sister before she can stop her.

Lilith: Eda, wait!

Eda runs out the door, and Lilith chases after her, only to cry out when she bumps into something, landing on her rear. She groans a little, looking up when someone holds out their hand to her.

Qrow: You okay?

Lilith is surprised to find Qrow standing in front of her, holding his hand out with a smile.

Lilith: I-it's you.

Meanwhile, Sparda walks over to his locker, whistling a tune. He has to admit, Hexside isn't so bad. It's definitely much better than Glandus, where there's prejudice between weak and strong students. And he enjoyed the classes here more than he did at Glandus, too. He particularly found Eda interesting after their witch's duel. As much of a braggart as she is, he can't help but feel impressed with her tenacity and determination.

He proceeds to tickle his locker open, but to his surprise, it spits out flaming Grudgby balls. He cries out and gets smashed into the wall upside down, covered in a couple of bruises. Sparda ends up dropping on his neck, eyes widened in disbelief as the balls roll near him.

Sparda: What the hell was that!?

His locker spits out a crystal ball, which stops in front of him, turning on to reveal Eda.

Eda: Hey, Blue Hair. Listen, pal, I'm the kind of girl who hates to end the day on a bad note, like, for example, some blue-haired smart-aleck humiliating me in front of an entire class. Sparda frowns in bemusement at Eda's pettiness. Well, I'm not letting that stand. I'm challenging you to a showdown. Meet me at the Grudgby Field at 4pm and don't be late. And now, here's a little gift from me to go with the Grudgby balls. It'll really blow you away! 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!

Sparda becomes surprised when the crystal ball lights up and then explodes. A flash of light can be seen from a nearby window. The smoke that engulfed Sparda clears up to reveal he's covered in soot and burns, shards of glass having missed him and stuck to the wall. He releases a puff of smoke before frowning and aiming a furious glare at the screen.

Sparda: That red-haired turkey's gonna regret that.

Meanwhile, Lilith and Qrow are walking together down the hall, the former holding some books and the latter with his hands in his pockets.

Lilith: So, you're one of the new students that transferred from Glandus?

Qrow: Yup. Just moved to Bonesborough last week.

Lilith: Are you friends with that boy?

Qrow: Which one?

Lilith: The one with the blue hair. You were there.

Qrow: Oh, him. Yeah. Actually, he's my younger brother, Sparda Kresnik. Is the redhead he beat your sister?

Lilith: Yeah. She is. That was my younger sister, Edalyn. How'd you guess?

Qrow: The hair colour was a dead giveaway. Your little sis put up a good fight.

Lilith: Yeah, she did. Though, she came up a little short today.

Qrow: Judging from her bragging, I'm guessing she's never lost a duel before. How's she taking it?

Lilith: Lilith rolls her eyes. As well as you'd expect. She just went to challenge your brother again, this time to Grudgby. Honestly, I just don't know what I'm gonna do with her.

Qrow: Qrow chuckles a little. You sound like a mom, rattling off your kid.

Lilith: Very funny. But… Lilith smiles a little. As much as Eda annoys me, she's my only sister and my best friend. The two of us may be polar opposites, but we're a really good team.

Qrow: I hear ya. Spard and I have our fair share of differences. He can be a bit of a punk most of the time. Qrow frowns a little. Tends to get on my nerves more than you might believe.

Lilith: Lilith smiles a little. I know exactly how you feel.

Qrow: But at the end of the day, we're brothers. We're opposites, too, in another sense. But believe it or not, that's why we're a pretty tight team ourselves. You'd be surprised to know how many fights we got into with other students at Glandus for picking on weaker students.

Lilith: Oh yeah. I've heard of how Glandus separates weaker and stronger witches.

Qrow: Yeah, not exactly something we're fond of, which is part of the reason we moved to Bonesborough and got transferred to Hexside. Guess you could say we're making a new start for ourselves.

Lilith: So, how would you say you're finding Hexside?

Qrow: Qrow frowns a little. Not exactly perfect, considering what I've heard about its principal. But to quote Sparda, "It's better than putting up with those losers at Glandus." My brother tends to look on the bright side of things. I'm having a hard time adjusting to this place.

Lilith: I'm sure you'll get used to it soon.

The two of them stop walking, with Qrow aiming a small smile at Lilith.

Qrow: Hmph. I guess. So, you got a name, Glasses?

Lilith smiles and is about to answer, but Qrow gasps when he spots something above and tackles her out of the way. Lilith cries out, and the two hit the floor just before the large lamp hanging above them falls and smashes onto the floor. Qrow and Lilith look at the lamp in horror, the latter knowing if he hadn't pushed her out of the way, she would've ended up seriously injured or worse.

Lilith: Oh, my Titan!

Qrow: Are you okay?

Lilith: Yeah. I'm fine. That was close! If I'd stayed there, I could've been killed! She smiles gratefully. Thank you.

Qrow: Yeah, sure. Don't mention it.

Lilith becomes worried upon hearing the unhappy tone in Qrow's voice and seeing his equally anxious face. He gets up and proceeds to walk away, and Lilith stands up, reaching out.

Lilith: Wait! Where are you going?

Qrow: To find my brother. If he accepts your little sis' challenge, he'll probably be at the Grudgby Field. I'll see you around.

Lilith is a little confused; it almost seems like Qrow's trying to get away from her for some reason. She looks down in contemplation. She had never really encountered a fellow elder sibling before. For some time now, the eldest Clawthorne Sister has been hoping to meet one in hopes of getting answers to a question that's been eating away at her. Refusing to let this chance pass, Lilith runs up and grabs Qrow's wrist.

Lilith: Hold it! Qrow turns in surprise to see the pleading look on Lilith's face. Before you go, there's something I'd like to ask you. Can you spare a little time?

Qrow reluctantly agrees. Ordinarily, he'd say no, but he can't refuse the sincerity on Lilith's face, causing him to reluctantly sigh.

Qrow: Fine. But make it quick.

Lilith: Tell me, and be honest, between you and your brother, who's the stronger witch?

Qrow widens his eyes, surprised at being asked such a question.

Meanwhile, Eda (wearing her jacket again) is at the Grudgby field, practicing with her ball, bouncing it off her knees and ankle a couple times as she waits patiently for Sparda, determined to win their showdown.

Eda: Where is he? He should've been here by now.

Just as she catches her ball, a dagger is thrown behind her. Without needing to turn, Eda moves her head to the side, dodging it and smirking, knowing who's behind her.

Eda: Nice try. So, how'd you like my little gift in your locker?

Sparda: I'm here to make you regret it.

Eda: Eda tosses up her ball. Well, I'm going to make you… think fast!

With a spin kick, Eda sends her ball flying, only for Sparda to effortlessly catch it in one hand.

Sparda: You'll have to do much better than that.

He weakly tosses the ball back to Eda as she gives him a glare.

Eda: You're late, slowpoke.

Sparda casually rests his hands behind his back.

Sparda: Yeah, I was just exploring the school. It's cool here. Yeah, you'd be cool, too, if you weren't such a sore loser.

Eda: Uh… I think I'm entitled to be a sore loser after the way you humiliated me earlier.

Sparda: All I did was beat you in a witch's duel. It's not like I was trying to embarrass you. You really need to chill out. We could be talking this out like civilized witches. But hey, if you'd rather get clobbered by me again-

Eda: SHUT UP! Are we gonna do this or what?

Sparda: Yeah, yeah. You wanna play that badly against me? Let's do it, turkeyhead.

Eda growls at that name, determined to wipe that smirk off her rival's face.

Eda: Oh, I am so gonna wipe that smirk off your face. You think you're so cool just because you beat me in a witch's duel, don't you? Let's see if you can beat me at what I do best: Grudgby. Eda smirks, holding her ball by her side. You and me, one-on-one in an all-out match. You think you're man enough to take me on, spikey?

In response to that, Sparda gets out a coin with a wolf's face on one side.

Sparda: If it's heads.

Sparda flips the coin. It flies up and drops down for him to catch in his palm, which he opens to reveal it landed on the wolf's face. He returns Eda's smirk, walking up to engage in a stare-down with her.

Sparda: Game on.

Sparda and Eda are standing opposite of each other in the center of the Grudgby field. After regaining her composure, Eda juggles her ball a bit before spinning it on her finger.

Eda: Since we've got no ref, let's do this for real. We use any kind of magic we want. Agreed?

Sparda: Deal.

Eda: Grudgby might be a little hard for a beginner. Want me to explain the rules?

Eda tosses the ball at Sparda, who catches it with the front of his ankle.

Sparda: Please, we played Grudgby at Glandus, too.

He kicks it up and rolls it down from his right to left arm before tossing it up to catch it with one hand.

Sparda: And I'll have you know I'm pretty good at this game.

He tosses the ball back to Eda, who smugly catches it.

Eda: Pretty good isn't all the impressive, spikey. I'm the star player of Hexside's Banshees.

Sparda: Weren't you also the "best witch" until I kicked your butt a couple hours ago?

Eda furrows her eyebrows in rage.

Eda: Game on!

Sparda: Showtime!

Eda tosses up the ball, and it's swallowed by the center. Sparda and Eda are ready to play.

Eda: There's something on your shoe.

Sparda: Pfft. Please, only an amateur would fall for that.

The ball is launched high into the air. But just as Sparda jumps, his foot gets snagged by some vines, causing him to drop down with a grunt. Eda catches the ball, grinning at her rival as she traces a green spell circle to encase herself in vines, burrowing into the ground and shooting up high into the air in front of Sparda's goal, grabbing and spinning around it to toss the ball inside.

Home: 1 – 09:50 – Away: 0

Eda strikes a victorious landing.

Eda: Booyah! I rock!

Sparda is surprised to see Eda using different magic.

Sparda: You can use plant magic!?

Eda: Duh! Who says I can't study other magic outside of school?

Sparda smiles, genuinely impressed.

Sparda: Not bad.

The match progresses. Sparda runs with the ball, quickly sliding underneath a giant axe. Eda flips above the axe, casting another spell circle to summon mounds of rock beneath Sparda's feet, sending him flying up the air. He recovers and dives towards the ground. The field sends out a formation of rocks, but Sparda lands and bounces off them, followed up with sharp icicles. He tosses up the ball and follows after it to deliver a flip kick, sending it straight through Eda's goal and scoring him a point.

Eda can't help but be impressed, especially since she and Sparda are focused on the game instead of throwing insults or fighting each other.

Eda: Huh. I hate to admit it, but… that was kinda cool.

Home: 1 – 09:00 – Away: 1

Eda is running with the ball, dodging arrows being fired from left and right, first by sliding, flipping, and doing somersaults. Sparda is hot on her tail, doing the same. Eda is getting away from him, prompting her rival to trace a spell circle and summon an Abomination to block her path. Eda gasps in shock; she didn't know Sparda could also do different kinds of magic. She overcomes her surprise quickly enough to turn the Abomination into stairs, run up, and toss up her ball to deliver a devastating kick, scoring her another goal.

She pumps her fist victoriously after landing on the ground.

Eda: Yes!

Home: 2 – 08:30 – Away: 1

Eda dodges some rocks and ice, tossing her ball towards the goal, only for a rock pillar to emerge, and the ball bounces off it. Right as Eda is prepared to catch it, Sparda jumps onto her back.

Eda: Hey!

Sparda bounces off, launching himself high into the air to catch the ball. He summons a vine from a spell circle, wrapping it around the pillar. He swings around and launches himself towards Eda's goal. Tracing a blue spell circle, Sparda sends out ice that forms into a grind rail for him to land on and grind across, heading straight for the goal.

Sparda: WOO-HOO!

Eda gives chase, sending out a fireball that melts the end half of the rail. This doesn't stop Sparda as he leaps off, performing a flip trick in the air before grabbing and swinging around the goal and tossing the ball inside, scoring him another point. He raises his fist victoriously.

Sparda: Woo-hoo!

Eda is a little annoyed at being used as a trampoline but can't help but smile, impressed.

Home: 2 – 07:50 – Away: 2

Sparda runs with the ball, engulfing it in electricity and tossing it at the goal. Prompting Eda to quickly form a pair of Abomination gloves and leap up to catch the ball, neutralizing the electricity, and with a flip, she lands on the ground. She charges towards the goal, but Sparda blocks her path. With a grin, Eda fires up her Grudgby ball and launches it. Sparda is ready, but Eda catches him by surprise with a light blue spell circle, creating illusions of dozens of Grudgby balls. He hurriedly traces a large blue spell circle, dispelling the illusions, but is too late as the real ball is inches away from his face, prompting him to bend back, barely dodging the ball, which is sent rocketing into his goal by an Abomination fist summoned by Eda.

Eda: Oh yeah!

Home: 3 – 07:10 – Away: 2

The ball is launched into the air for Sparda and Eda to leap after, the former catching it first and whizzing past his new rival to make a run for her goal. He quickly slides underneath some cutlasses flying towards him and bounces off some emerging pointed rocks to toss the ball, only for a pillar to block it. He catches the ball, runs towards the pillar, and unleashes a lightning blast, blowing a hole that he jumps through to toss the ball into the goal, scoring him his third point.

Home: 3 – 06:45 – Away: 3

For the next 5 minutes, Sparda and Eda use every spell and trick they have up their sleeves to keep scoring goals.

Eda leaps up near the goal, tossing the ball in.

Sparda sends the ball flying with a powerful flip kick, scoring another point.

Eda scores her fifth point when she launches herself through a goal with the ball in hand.

Eda: Woo-hoo!

Sparda casts a spell circle and smacks it onto the ground, summoning a rock fist to launch the ball into the goal.

The two are evenly matched this time: Eda is determined to win, and Sparda is just having the time of his life. After over 5 minutes, the scores remained tied, with only 1 minute left.

Home: 9 – 01:00 – Away: 9

The two of them are standing at the center field face to face again, panting a little.

Sparda: You're not so bad.

Eda: You're not too bad yourself.

Sparda: You wanna call it quits while you're ahead?

Eda: No way. Not 'till I crush you.

Sparda: It's your funeral.

The ball is launched once more for Sparda and Eda to leap after. But once again, Sparda is first to catch it and runs toward Eda's goal.

Eda: Oh no, you don't!

Eda gives chase, running after Sparda.

Eda: I am not letting you take my unbeaten streak in Grudgby, too!

Eda summons an Abomination to block Sparda's path, but he blows a hole through it with a lightning spell and leaps through, and Eda slides down through her Abomination, hot on Sparda's tail.

She quickly unleashes a barrage of fireballs that Sparda manages to dodge as he runs ahead with the ball, getting closer to Eda's goal.

Flaming pillars burst from the ground, but Sparda dodges and douses them with water. Icicle shards are launched at his sides, but he creates an energy shield to block them, and when arrows are fired in front, he deflects them with a sword storm. He rolls on the ground to dodge some plant vines and stalagmites, and Eda bounces off them all, slowly catching up to her rival and closing in on him to the point her hands are inches away from his hood as Eda reaches out.

Eda: Ha, ha! I've got you!

Sparda: Oh no, you don't!

Two large axes swing in front, prompting Sparda to flip right over and Eda to slide underneath. (Slow-motion) Just as Sparda is about to land, Eda proceeds to grab the hood of his cowl. But, at the very last second, a huge rock pillar emerges, snagging Eda by the back of her jacket and allowing Sparda to run off. Eda screams as she's lifted high into the air until the pillar stops. Eda cries out when she finds herself suspended a hundred feet over the ground.

Eda: Oh Titan… I picked a really bad time to send Owlbert to tell my parents I'd be home late.

She yelps when she hears a tear. Eda gasps upon seeing her snagged jacket slowly tearing apart.

Eda: Oh man…

On the ground, Sparda stops running and gasps upon finding Eda suspended high in the air, about to fall off.

Sparda: Oh crap…!

Sparda looks between Eda and the goal; it's a no-brainer what the right thing to do is.

Eda reaches up, trying to hold her jacket together, but is unable to stop it from tearing or move without making things worse.

Eda: HELP!

Sparda: Hang on! I'm coming!

Sparda tosses the ball away and runs. He brings out Force Edge to slice through arrows and ice shards sent his way and jumps off a boulder, summoning Abomination goo to form a trampoline, which he leaps on to spring high into the air after Eda. The rebellious teen's jacket is getting close to being torn, much to her horror, and she sweats nervously.

Soon, the fabric completely tears off, and Eda falls, screaming. Fortunately, Sparda rockets towards Eda, catching her in his arms. He stabs Force Edge again into the pillar, sliding down. When they're near the ground, Sparda launches himself off and lands on the ground. He stands up, holding Eda in bridal style, who has her eyes closed.

Sparda: You can open your eyes now.

Eda: Eda squints her eyes open. Huh?

When they're fully opened, she is surprised to find herself in someone's arms, and she's not dead. She becomes surprised to see Sparda smiling at her, realizing he saved her.

Eda: You… you saved me?

Sparda: Well, I had to. I couldn't just leave you hanging… literally. You okay?

Eda: I…

Eda is almost speechless. A boy she had just formed a rivalry with and had been trying to beat all day just saved her life when he barely even knows her. That and the position Eda is in cause her to blush and be incredibly embarrassed. Sparda chuckles at her expression and slowly lets her down. She quickly turns away with a huff and her arms crossed.

Eda: I… I didn't need your help. I could've saved myself, you know.

Sparda: Is that how you Clawthornes say "thank you"?

Eda grumbles a little but says nothing as she is secretly grateful for the save. Sparda keeps smiling, hands in his pocket as he looks at the scoreboard.

Home: 9 – 00:30 – Away: 9

There's 30 seconds left, and since things have calmed down between him and Eda, now might be a good time for them to talk things out.

Sparda: So… you wanna take a break? I can fix up your jacket. And we can have that civilized talk I recommended.

Eda turns around, a little hesitant at first, but that turns into a small smile of acceptance.

Eda: Yeah. I'd like that.

While this is going on, Qrow and Lilith are sitting on a bench together, the former preparing to answer the latter's question, her expression looking downcast.

Qrow: Is there any reason why you want to know who's the stronger witch?

Lilith: I meant it when I said my sister and I are a good team. But over these past few years, she's been improving at an extraordinary rate. She might be a rebel, but her grades are improving so much that some of them are better than mine. And she's starting to become stronger than me, too. Edalyn is a year younger than me, but she works twice as hard. I study and practice every day, but my little sister is improving faster than I am. I've seen her hone her spells and learn new ones that I, or even adults, find difficult. At the rate things are going, Edalyn's going to become the better witch.

Qrow: So? What's the big deal? You're not jealous of your own sister, are you? I'd think you'd be proud of her.

Lilith: It's not that I'm jealous. Well… okay, maybe a little. But, really, I am proud of Eda. It's just that… I'm supposed to be her older sister. Someone for her to look up to. Lilith brings up her knees, hugging them a little. If she becomes better than me… she won't need me to protect her anymore. How can I be a role model or an older sister if my younger sister is a better witch than I am? She won't need me anymore.

Qrow can't help but give Lilith a look of sympathy as he stares at the depressed look on her face.

Qrow: So, you want to know if I understand what it's like to have a younger sibling surpass me?

Lilith: Yeah. Believe it or not, you're the first older sibling I've met in Hexside. And after seeing how your brother fought, I want to know who's stronger. So… is Sparda stronger than you?

Qrow: Not exactly. At the moment, Spard and I are evenly matched. We train together, and every day, he gets better. Just like your turkeyheaded sister, my little brother works twice as hard. Probably harder than any other witchling. I won't lie; at the rate he's improving, it's only a matter of time before my little brother becomes stronger than me. He'll surpass me real soon.

Lilith: And… that doesn't worry you?

Qrow: Qrow frowns a little. It did at first. My brother is improving faster than I thought. He's slowly becoming better than me… his big brother. In fact, he's always been better than me in more ways than one.

Lilith: What do you mean?

Qrow: Let's just say… Spard was born with a gift. And I was born with a curse. He brings good fortune to everyone around him, and I bring the opposite. We balance each other out. So, in a way, I guess I need him.

Lilith: What does that mean?

Qrow: That's a topic I'll save for another time. The point is, he's the stronger witch in a couple ways. When we were little tykes, he was frail. It was my job as a big brother to look out for him. I taught him to stand up for himself and helped him find his voice. I've had his back for years. But now, he's growing up. Soon, he won't need me to protect him anymore.

Lilith: I know exactly how you feel.

Qrow: Of course… that's how I used to feel.

Lilith: Huh?

Lilith becomes confused upon seeing a smile on Qrow's face.

Qrow: Sure… Sparda's becoming stronger than me, but I'd like to think it's because everything he knows about fighting and casting spells, he learned from watching and training with me. When the time came for him to train, I taught him a thing or two our parents taught me. He picked it up quickly and added his own twists to them, making them his own. He aims his smile at Lilith. I'm sure it's the same for your sis. Everything she knows about magic, she learned from watching you, her big sister. You've had more of an effect on her than you think.

Lilith: I… never thought of it like that before. But… aren't you worried he might not need you anymore?

Qrow: He won't need me to protect him like I always have. My little brother's becoming so strong now he won't need protection. But… there is something he'll always need me for. It doesn't matter how strong he gets; he doesn't have eyes in the back of his head. So, I've got his back. Lilith remains silent as Qrow places a hand on his shoulder. Our little sibs surpassing us isn't something to be scared of. You're right that Eda might not need your protection. But she'll always need you for something. What that is, well, you'll need to figure it out yourself.

Lilith looks down, letting Qrow's words sink in. She feels as though a weight on her shoulders is getting lifted, bringing a smile to her face, which she aims at Qrow.

Lilith: Wow. That really helps. I had you all wrong. You're a lot smarter than I thought.

Qrow: Hmph. What? You thought just by looking at me that I was just some brute?

Lilith: Well… yeah.

The two share a little laugh, sharing a smile.

Qrow: Well, you're not the first one to think that.

Lilith: Still… you're right. I've been so worried about being surpassed by my sister that I haven't thought about the things I can do. Eda might be stronger than me, but I can be smarter and craftier. Even though she might not need me to protect her, I can still be there to help her, especially when she needs me. I can still be her older sister.

Qrow: You are her older sister. Just as I'm Spard's older brother. Our roles as older siblings aren't over yet. Best we can do is be there for our sibs when they really need us, even if they don't realize it.

Lilith: Yeah. You're right.

Qrow: All in all, I'm proud of how far my brother's come along, even if he is a bit of a punk. He lightly punches Lilith in the shoulder. Just don't tell him I said that.

Lilith: Lilith puts a finger on her chin. Hmm, maybe. She grins playfully. As long as you don't tell my sister about anything I just said.

Qrow: He guns her. Deal.

The two share another laugh, this time louder and longer, followed up with a smile.

Qrow: So, you gonna give me a name?

Lilith: Lilith. She holds out her hand. I'm Lilith Clawthorne. My friends call me Lily.

Qrow: Name's Qrow. He holds up his hand. Qrow Argus.

Lilith: Nice to meet you, Qrow.

Lilith and Qrow shake hands, officially forming a new friendship together over their similarities in looking out for their stronger, younger siblings.

Back on the Grudgby Field, Sparda and Eda are taking a break before resuming the last 30 seconds of their game. Eda is sitting down on a bench, drinking a cup of water while in a sullen mood. When she finishes, she tosses the cup away. Before she can even sulk, her letterman jacket is tossed onto her lap. She holds it up, becoming surprised to find the torn part of her jacket has been stitched up. She finds Sparda standing by her with a grin.

Sparda: You're welcome.

Eda: You fixed my jacket?

Sparda: Sparda sits down next to her. Oh, I've taken a couple of sewing lessons. I'm pretty good at it. Fixing up your jacket wasn't that hard.

Eda: Um… thanks. She places her jacket beside her. You didn't have to do that, but I appreciate it. And um…

Eda is a little nervous about what she's about to say next but manages to swallow her pride.

Eda: Look, I just wanna say thanks for saving me back there. I owe you one.

Sparda: Don't mention it.

Eda: But… why did you do that? You could've won the match if you kept running for the goal. Why come back for me?

Sparda: Well, like I said, I couldn't just leave you hanging. You were in trouble. Friends help friends.

Eda: Wait… we're friends? I'm your friend?

Sparda: What? Never had one before? First time for everything, I guess.

Sparda laughs a little, and after a couple seconds, Eda smiles and joins it. The two share a friendly smile.

Eda: You are one strange dude. You know that, right?

Sparda: I get that a lot.

Eda: Eda looks down guiltily. Hey, look, um… I'm sorry about how I've been acting since we've met. I guess I've been kind of a jerk lately, huh?

Sparda: Meh. It's not the first time I've made an enemy out of someone I beat in a witch's duel. Though, it is the first time I've made a friend out of it.

Eda: For me, that was actually the first time I lost a witch's duel. Eda thumbs herself. I'm sort of the best witch here at Hexside. You're the only one to ever beat me.

Sparda: Well, like I said-

Eda: Yeah, yeah, I know. First time for everything.

Sparda: Don't be too down about losing. If it makes you feel better, I had fun back there. You put up a good fight. There was a moment I thought I'd actually lose. And if I were a second slower, I would've.

Eda: Really?

Sparda: Yeah. I've gotta admit, you're really good. Can't believe I'm saying this, but maybe you do have some innate talent. No one could ever give me a decent fight back at Glandus.

Eda: Eda can't help but blush. Thanks. You know, you're not so bad yourself. While getting my butt kicked stinks, I've gotta admit, I had some fun when we fought. No one here at Hexside has ever given me such a good duel. Until I met you, it was just a bunch of wannabes and cocky loudmouths.

Sparda: Says the cocky loudmouth sitting right next to me.

Eda: Ha-ha. Very funny. But I admit. You're really good. And those were sick moves you pulled back on the field.

Sparda: Thanks.

Eda: So, you transferred here from Glandus?

Sparda: Yeah. Along with my brother.

Eda: Your brother? You mean that dark-haired jerk who called me a turkeyhead?

Sparda: Well, to be fair, your hair kinda does make you look like a turkey. Eda grumbles. But yeah, that was my brother Qrow. We were transferred from Glandus together. Well, technically, we got kicked out for picking too many fights with other students, even though they were pretty much asking for it. So, my family ended up moving to Bonesborough.

Eda: Can't stand the "strong picks on the weak" thing at Glandus? I hear that's how they roll.

Sparda: Yeah. My brother and I can't stand seeing other kids get picked on just because they're either younger or weaker. And the teachers are pretty much useless.

Eda: Yeah, I hear ya. We have our fair share of useless teachers here at Hexside. Though, not as bad as Glandus.

Sparda: Some losers also made it their mission to harass me and my brother. But we showed them. This one time, some 16-year-old girl humiliated me in front of the entire student body, so I let her know just how I felt.

Eda: Really? What'd you do?

Sparda: I may have knocked out all her teeth. And broke an arm. And a leg. Eda widens her eyes to the size of dinner plates, which Sparda notices. Meh. Nothing to worry. Her limbs healed after a month, and the Healing Coven grew her teeth back. I got grounded for a month and a week of suspension, but it was so worth it.

Eda: Whoa! Dude, you've got a real violent streak, don't you?

Sparda: Hey, you mess with me or my sibling, you get a one-way ticket to pain. Ever since then, if anyone tried to mess with me or my brother in class, I usually establish dominance by punching them in the face.

Eda: She guns him with a grin. I like your style, Blue. Punching the first jerk I see in class is how I establish dominance, too.

Sparda: Looks like we have something in common, Red.

Eda: Based on what I've seen from you, I bet you and your brother were the strongest witches in Glandus.

Sparda: Well, I hate to brag, but… He slicks his hair. I'm a total boss on the battlefield. I've got my own innate talents. No one could beat me or Qrow in a witch's duel or anything for that matter.

Eda: Except maybe at being humble.

Sparda: Sparda lightly smacks Eda. Hey, you're not one to talk, lady.

Eda: Ha! You're not wrong.

Sparda: But because we got into so many fights there, our parents and the principal decided it'd be better to transfer us to Hexside.

Eda: So, how are you finding our humble school?

Sparda: It's better than Glandus, that's for sure.

Eda: You might not be thinking that when you meet our principal.

Sparda: Meh. Still better than Glandus. I hear this place has got a bunch of secret spots.

Eda: Oh, definitely! This place has all the secrets! I could give you a rundown if you'd like.

Sparda: That'd be swell.

The two share a smile, starting to get along and forgetting their earlier rivalry. Eda isn't even caring she lost to Sparda earlier. She then looks at Yamato lying next to the bench.

Eda: You know, I can't help but notice that sword of yours over there is really special. She points at Yamato, and Sparda picks it up. I mean, I've fought a bunch of weaponry students, but their weapons were lame with a capital L. But that sword is something else. It's simple but powerful.

Sparda: Sparda picks up his sheathed katana. Got an eye for weaponry, huh?

Eda: I dabble with weaponry magic from time to time.

Sparda: Well, you're right. This sword is special. It's a hand-me-down. It's been passed down by my ancestors since the Savage Ages. My father passed it down to me. It's called the Yamato.

Eda: Huh? Weird name?

Sparda: We're in the Boiling Isles. Everything is weird.

Eda: Fair point. What about that other sword? Does it have a name?

Sparda puts Yamato away and brings out Force Edge, opening the blade.

Sparda: I call this beauty Force Edge. I made it myself.

Eda: Whoa! You made that!? She double-takes. Oh yeah. I forgot at Glandus, all Weaponry students forge their own weapons.

Sparda: That's right. He rubs the blade. And I forged this guy out of some special materials from home along with what they offer at Glandus. It may look a little dull, but it's shockingly powerful. Sparda chuckles while Eda deadpans. Get it? Because my sword uses lightning magic. Eda says nothing. No? You're not getting it.

Eda: Yeah, I got it. Wasn't funny.

Sparda: Ouch.

Eda: Still, that's amazing. But if I'm being honest, your brother's weapon is probably cooler.

Sparda: No surprise there. Sparda closes his sword and puts it away. Qrow went a little overboard, forging his weapon.

Eda: So… have you and your brother been together your whole life?

Sparda: Totally. Well, most of our lives, actually. Qrow and I have the same mom but different dads.

Eda: Wait… so you two are half-brothers?

Sparda: Yeah. But we're as close as any other brothers. Qrow's practically been my best bud growing up. Actually, he's my only friend. He may be a total buzzkill with his endless cynicism, but we're the ultimate team. When I was little, I was the biggest wimp on the playground. I always let others walk over me. My brother stood up for me. He helped me find my voice and taught me to stand up for myself. How do you think I was such a boss at verbally owning you before our duel? Eda rolls her eyes, continuing to listen. We've been training together our whole lives, sharpening our skills and aiming to become the best witches and swordsmen on the Isles.

Eda: You going for the top, huh?

Sparda: You could say that. But enough about me. What about you? From the looks of it, I'd say you've been training to reach the top your entire life.

Eda: Oh, definitely. My older sister and I have been learning all kinds of spells ever since we were little girls. We practice every day together. We're aiming to qualify for the Emperor's Coven.

Sparda: Sparda frowns. The Emperor's Coven?

Eda: Yeah. Eda plays with her legs. It's been our dream to become one of the best. We wanna work with the greatest witches and go around the isles on adventures, helping people. She summons a scroll with a smirk. I also have a list of pranks I'm dying to play after we join.

She notices Sparda looking down with a disinterested expression, prompting her to dismiss her scroll.

Eda: Is something wrong?

Sparda: I'm not a big fan of covens.

Eda: Huh!? Really?

Sparda: Well, to be more accurate, I hate covens. The thought of joining one makes me sick to my stomach.

Eda: You don't plan on joining a coven?

Sparda: No way, Jose. Sparda looks away with his arms crossed. Why would I wanna waste my life joining a cult? I have plans for my future, and they don't involve getting my magic restricted. This coven system Emperor Belos has placed is so messed up and convoluted. Witches join a coven even when it's against their will. Restrictions to magic. It just feels so wrong. And it's divided the entire Boiling Isles. I mean, don't get me wrong, if it's other people's dreams to join a coven, especially the Emperor's Coven, I respect that. But why does joining a coven have to be our only option? And why do witches have to be arrested just for not joining one? Not joining a coven shouldn't make anyone bad? But the emperor makes it his mission to force his will on us. It's not something my brother and I like.

Eda stares at the frown on Sparda's face, realizing the two of them have more in common than they thought. She, too, can't stand covens. The only reason she'd ever join one is because she wants to be with her sister.

Eda: I know exactly how you feel. Sparda looks at Eda, surprised to see the frown on her face. I can't stand the coven system, either.

Sparda: Really?

Eda: Witches being forced to join covens. Our magic getting restricted. Only a few of us being able to use different types of magic. Witches getting sent to the Conformatorium for not joining a coven. It just doesn't make sense. Emperor Belos says he's trying to keep our magic under control, but that just doesn't sit right with me. Magic shouldn't be controlled. It should be wild, unpredictable, and free.

Sparda: Sparda smiles. I hear ya, sister.

Eda: To be honest, covens aren't exactly my style.

Sparda: So, why do you wanna join the Emperor's Coven?

Eda: I don't. I just want to be with my sister.

Sparda: Your sister's that redhead wearing glasses, right?

Eda: Eda giggles. Yeah. That's Lilith. She's my big sis. We've been together our whole lives. Our relationship is like what you have with Qrow. She looks down with a fond smile. Growing up, Lily and I have always been best friends. I remember when we were little, I'd get hurt a lot. Lily always cast this spell that made it, so she shared half my pain. It was really sweet of her.

Sparda: She sounds like a reliable sis.

Eda: Yeah. She is. I learned how to cast spells just by watching her. We play Grudgby a lot throughout the week. We're an unstoppable team, Lily and me. She gives a smirk. That's why we call ourselves the Clawthorne Sisters. Sparda rolls his eyes, and then Eda looks down again. Ever since we were little, she's always wanted to work alongside the best witches in the Emperor's Coven. It's been her dream. And… I wanna be there with her.

Sparda: Worried that your sister might forget you when she becomes a big shot?

Eda widens her eyes in surprise at Sparda's smile.

Eda: How did you know?

Sparda: I have psychic powers. Eda's eyes become wider. Got you, didn't I? Nah, just kidding. It was a lucky guess.

Eda: Oh. Well, you're right. Eda brought up her knees, hugging them. Truth is… Lily's been the only friend I've had my whole life. It'd be a bummer if that got taken away from me. I don't want my big sis to get so busy that she'll end up forgetting her baby sis. I figure if I join the Emperor's Coven, the two of us could stay close.

Sparda: You shouldn't force yourself to join the Emperor's Coven, Red. I'm sure Lilith would never forget you.

Eda: You think so?

Sparda: Yeah. I mean, who could forget a braggart with red turkey-shaped hair? Sparda laughs, causing Eda to deadpan at his joke. But, also, you and your sister are way too close for her to ever forget you. You have a strong bond. No matter how far apart you are, Lilith will always have room in her heart to remember her baby sis.

Eda smiles gratefully, feeling comforted by Sparda's words.

Eda: Thanks.

Sparda: So… if joining a coven isn't something you like… what is your dream exactly?

Eda: Eda looks back down again. Honestly, I'm not really sure yet. I'm still figuring out what it is I really want with my life. She looks up with a fond smile, the wind breezing through her hair. But I do know, whatever path I choose, I want it to lead a life of freedom, not just for me but all witches, including wild witches. I wanna help create a life where everyone can be free from being forced to join a coven and do whatever they want with their lives. Sparda smiles back, impressed with her dream, as she looks back at him. What about you? What's your dream, Blue?

Sparda: Me? I wanna go travelling. Qrow and I love adventure. We go on them all the time around town. When we were little, our parents would always read us stories about the Grim Reaper.

Eda: Oh! I've heard of her! She's that butt-kicking devil lady who went around the Demon Realm. She went to all sorts of places, went on adventures and hunted down monsters. I think they were called Shadow Reapers. I've read every one of her books! Dude, she's a legend! Well, was…

Sparda: Hell yeah, she was! She went wherever she wanted and didn't let anyone tell her what to do. She disappeared like 20 years ago for some reason, but she's, my hero. It's because of her there's barely any Shadow Reapers around the Boiling Isles these days. When I get older, I'm gonna go on adventures all around the isles with my brother. We're gonna find treasures, babes, monsters to fight, and help witches and demons our own way like she did. The Grim Reaper didn't need to join a coven to be as awesome as she was. So, neither do Qrow and I. And once we've explored everywhere around the isles, we're gonna set our sights across the seas. There's a whole Demon Realm to explore.

Eda: Eda finds Sparda's dreams excitable. A life of danger and adventure? That sounds so cool! But wait… if you don't join a coven, won't the emperor's coven try to capture you? They'll see you as a wild witch.

Sparda: Then I'm a wild witch. Let those scouts come after me. It'll just make the adventure more exciting. And along the way, I'm gonna find a way to remove the coven system and give it a huge update.

Eda: You wanna remove the coven system completely? Can you actually do that?

Sparda: Who knows?

Eda: Huh? Seriously, you wanna change the system, and you don't know if you can do it?

Sparda: Hey, it's not like you've thought out your future yourself.

Eda: Touché.

Sparda: I'm not exactly sure if I can pull it off, but I wanna put in that much effort. My motto is "Dream big". After all, the bigger the dream, the bigger the adventure.

Eda can't help but smile in admiration at Sparda and his goals.

Eda: You know, I had you all wrong, Blue. You're not like the other kids here. You're really cool.

Sparda: Sparda smiles back. You're pretty cool yourself, Red. A bit of a dingus. But cool.

Eda playfully smacks Sparda's shoulder.

Eda: Hey, watch it, spikey.

The two of them burst into laughter, enjoying the moment together. They then share another smile and Eda thumbs over to the field.

Eda: You know… we have 30 seconds left. You wanna see this match through to the end?

With a grin, Sparda brings out his lucky coin.

Sparda: If it's heads.

Eda: Do you always use that coin to decide EVERYTHING?

Sparda: It's my lucky charm.

Eda: You believe in superstitions?

Sparda: You could say that.

Sparda flips his lucky coin and catches it. He opens it to find his coin has landed on heads, giving Eda a grin.

Sparda: You're on.

Sparda becomes surprised when Eda holds out her hand with a friendly smile.

Eda: I'm Eda. Eda Clawthorne.

Sparda smiles back again, holding his hand up, too.

Sparda: Name's Sparda. Sparda Kresnik.

Sparda and Eda shake hands, having found a new friend in each other over their shared interest in adventure and wild magic.

A couple seconds later, Sparda and Eda (wearing her letterman jacket again) are standing in the center of the field, ready to catch the Grudgby ball.

Sparda: Whoever wins, no hard feelings, right?

Eda: No hard feelings.

The horn sounds off, and the ball is launched into the air. Sparda leaps up, about to catch it first once again, but he misses when Eda sends out vines to snag the ball. She runs towards the goal, and Sparda gives chase after landing. Arrows and knives are launched at Eda, but she waves her finger around to create flames, ploughing through the sharp objects. She jumps over two axes while Sparda slides underneath them. He then leaps up with a spell circle, slamming it against the ground to unleash a rupture of Earth. A rock fist blasts out underneath Eda's feet, sending her flying into the air.

She quickly catches her Grudgby ball and quickly forms an ice slide, which she lands and slides on, continuing to run for the goal. Just as she closes in on the goal, spikes of rocks launch themselves at Eda, but she jumps and bounces off them, followed by Sparda. A rock pillar then emerges, but Eda lands on the top, jumping off it towards the goal while Sparda arrives too late, being forced to grab onto the pillar. He quickly flips onto it and summons a horseshoe, tossing it like a boomerang.

With the goal in her sights, Eda tosses the ball, and it flies towards the goal. Sparda's horseshoe is about to hit the ball, but Eda launches a potion from her coat, which explodes and veers the horseshoe off course. As a result, the ball flies straight into the goal, scoring Eda the final point and officially winning her the game.

Home: 10 – 00:00 – Away: 9

Eda lands, cheering and raising her fists victoriously.

Eda: WOO-HOO! She throws her fists repeatedly. Oh yeah! I'm still the queen of Grudgby!

Eda does a little victory dance until she notices Sparda sitting on the ground, panting in exhaustion. She walks up to him with a friendly smile, offering her hand. Sparda smiles back, taking her hand but staying seated.

Sparda: Not bad, Red. Not bad at all. Congratulations.

Eda: Thanks. You were pretty good, too. We should do it again sometimes.

Lilith: Eda!

The two look to see Lilith and Qrow approaching them, the former running and the latter walking with his hands in his pocket.

Eda: Hey, Lily!

Lilith runs up and takes her sister's hands.

Lilith: I saw the whole thing! That was incredible! Congrats on winning the match!

Eda: Thanks. Not to brag, but… She flips her hair again. I still rule.

Sparda: Yeah, yeah. You won. But don't let it go to head, E. I'm calling this a draw since I beat you in our witch's duel earlier.

Eda: Eda snorts and grins back. Whatever floats your tonsils, Blue.

Lilith giggles, and Qrow approaches his brother with a smirk.

Qrow: From where I was standing, the only thing you drew was a big 'L' on your forehead for loser, lame, and laughable.

Sparda: Huh? Isn't this the part where you cheer me up or something like: "You're just having a bad day" or "That's what you get for pulling your punches?" Some brother.

Qrow: Oh. So, I'm supposed to lie?

Sparda rolls his eyes, and Eda and Lilith chuckle at this sight.

Eda: You're Sparda's older brother, right?

Qrow: Yup, that's me. Name's Qrow. He thumbs over to Sparda. My snail-footed brother, you already know.

Sparda gives a groan of annoyance, looking at Eda.

Sparda: You see what I gotta put up with?

He lies on his back with his hands behind his head. He lifts it up to give Eda a look.

Sparda: Sure, hope your sis is nothing like this guy.

Eda: Eda teasingly places a finger on her chin. Hmm. Sometimes, she can be worse. Other times, she's a total buzzkill.

Lilith: Lilith deadpans. I'm right here.

Eda laughs, and after a couple seconds, Lilith's deadpanning turns into a smile, joining in on the laughter. And soon, Sparda and Qrow join in, too. The group of four share laughter over their respective sibling interactions. It goes on for a while but eventually calms down, and Lilith walks over to Sparda.

Lilith: You're Sparda, right? Qrow's told me all about you. You're really good. You know, you and your brother should join our Grudgby team. You two would make a great fit.

Sparda: Hmm. No one's ever asked us to join a team before. I guess I could use a new hobby.

Qrow: Spard. Come on. We gotta go.

Sparda: Okay.

Sparda kicks back up, and he and Qrow proceed to leave. The older brother turns to Lilith as he leaves.

Qrow: I'll be seeing you tomorrow, Lilith.

Lilith: She waves. Okay. Bye, Qrow.

Eda: You guys are leaving?

Sparda: He stops, turning to Eda with a smile. Yeah, we'd better get back home before our parents worry. But I'll be seeing you when I see you.

Eda: Hey, Sparda. Thanks again for before.

Sparda: You mean me saving you? Don't mention it.

Eda: No, I meant what you said. It really helped. You've given me something to think about.

Sparda: Glad I could help.

Eda: You know, there's a carnival going tomorrow after school. Lily and I are planning on going. Maybe you and Qrow can join us.

Lilith: Yeah. It's a good chance for us to hang out. And get to know each other.

Eda: Eda gags. Blech! Please, don't make this sound corny, Lil.

Sparda: Lilith deadpans again. Carnival, huh? Sounds fun. Sure, why not? After all, we're friends now. Eda smiles in response to that, and Sparda gives a two-fingered salute. See you around, Eda. And remember, dream big.

And with that, Sparda walks off and catches up with his brother. The two of them leave the field, and the Clawthorne Sisters are left alone, with Lilith giving her sister a sly smile.

Lilith: So, satisfied now, Edalyn?

Eda: Yup! Totally! Though, to be honest, I stopped caring about losing that witch's duel. I kinda like Sparda. He's really cool, unlike everyone else here.

Lilith: Yeah, I hear you. Qrow's not so bad, either. He's a little cynical. But he's a nice guy. You know, there's something really special about those two.

Eda: I hear ya, Lil. Something tells me things at Hexside are gonna be way more fun with those two around.

Eda stares off into the distance, watching Sparda and Qrow leave with a bright smile on her face, feeling optimistic about what's to come next.

We go back to the present after Eda finishes telling her story to Luke, her smile mirroring the one we saw her younger self give.

Eda: After that, Lily and I began hanging out with Sparda and Qrow every day. Eventually, the four of us formed our own official friend group, and we have been inseparable ever since. And Sparda and Qrow eventually trusted us enough to tell us they were both devils.

Luke, King, Hooty, and Repede are in awe after listening to the story, especially the Son of Sparda.

Luke: Wow. So that's how you met my dad and uncle. That's such an incredible story.

King: You became friends with Luke's dad a couple hours after you became enemies?

Eda: Yeah, that's pretty much it.

Hooty: Luke's pop really was an amazing guy! Even as a kid.

Eda: He sure was. He was one of a kind, and he never stopped extending a hand to those who needed it. And the two of us had fun together pranking every single student and teacher at Hexside we could.

Eda snorts and laughs for a bit before her face drops into a frown.

Luke: Teach. Is something wrong?

Eda: Oh, it's just that… thinking about your dad makes me wish he were still here to make his dream a reality.

Luke: My old man's dream was to destroy the Coven System, right? So, all witches could be free to make their own decisions and not be forced to join covens.

Eda: Yeah. Underneath that tough exterior of his, Sparda was always a dreamer. Her frown forms into a depressed look. But now those dreams are buried with him under the Earth.

For a moment, Luke is sad, too, but his expression soon forms into a smile.

Luke: Well, that's why I'm here, right?

Eda: Huh?

Luke: My dad might not be here anymore to achieve his dreams… but that's why I'm here. To carry out those dreams and see it through to the end. That's why you're here, too, Eda. Same goes for Lilith and Qrow… even though we still don't know why my uncle's working for the emperor.

Eda lets Luke's words sink in, a smile forming on her face.

Eda: Yeah. You're right, kid.

Luke: You know, it sounds like my dad enjoyed messing with you just as much as I do.

Eda: You have no idea. But despite all that, I really miss him.

Luke: But you know what my favourite part of the story was? My dad and uncle calling you a turkeyhead!

Eda's face drops into an annoyed frown, blushing in embarrassment as the boys all burst with laughter. King slaps Luke's arm.

King: It's so hilarious! I can't believe you never thought of it before!

Luke: I know, right!? Her hair makes her look like a turkey! It's so obvious! I am never dropping that, by the way!

Eda: Eda groans. Ugh! Why did I tell you about that nickname?

Luke: Ooh! Ooh! I got it! Instead of calling you the Owl Lady, we should call you: The Turkey Lady!

Hooty: Ooh!

King: I like it!

Eda: Don't even think about it.

King: What's up, Turkey Lady!?

Luke: Gobble, gobble. Table for one Turkey Lady. Over here by the henhouse.

Eda: I'm serious! Knock it off!

Luke begins chanting, causing Eda to widen her eyes in stress, still blushing.

Luke: Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady!

King and Hooty join in on the chant, and Repede howls, causing Eda to cover her ears in agony.

Eda: Leave me alone!

Luke, King & Hooty: Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady, Turkey Lady!

Eda: Oh my Titan, stop it, stop it, stop it, stop it! I hate all of you!

The boys laugh hysterically, and Eda gives them a glare. However, her annoyance forms into a smile upon thinking how much Luke reminds her of Sparda and Aelita. As much as the former annoyed her with his constant picking on her, she loved him, nonetheless. And seeing Luke so full of energy gets Eda thinking about Aelita, missing her just as much. Just looking at Luke gives her hope that both their dreams for the Demon Realm will be fulfilled one day. This prompts Eda to take one of her photos, giving it a fond look.

Eda: Hell of a kid you've got, Sparda… Aelita… wish you were still here. You'd be so proud. She looks up fondly. You too, Qrow.

She goes back to looking at the photo, the one of her and the original Hex-Squad (including Aelita) as children. The time when they were at their most carefree and happiest.

Speaking of Qrow, he is at the castle, sitting on and against a ledge, staring at the same photo, which brings a small smile to his face. He hears a noise from below and looks down, solemnly watching caged wild witches wheeled inside to face judgement. The sight of this makes the Weaponry Coven Head sick to his stomach, gritting his teeth in rage as he puts the photo away.

Qrow: Tch.

He got out his coin… Sparda's lucky coin. The very same one he kept flipping since they were kids. Looking at it brings back an old memory.

(Flashback)

Back in the past, after leaving the Grudgby Field, the Argus-Kresnik Brothers exit the school, walking down the steps together. Sparda has his hands casually folded behind his head, and Qrow has his hands stuffed into his pocket.

Qrow: What is it with you making rivals out of everyone you meet?

Sparda: I want everyone I meet to remember me. Qrow stops, followed by Sparda, who turns to face him. Inside of people's minds, I can live forever.

Qrow: I know I won't forget you. Believe me, I try all the time. Doesn't work.

Sparda: You see. I'm immortal.

Qrow: Heh. You're obnoxious.

The brothers look up the banners representing the ten covens and coven heads. Both were grinning.

Sparda: Someday, brother, we're gonna get rid of this corrupt system and change this dump of an island for the better.

Qrow: Don't forget our adventures. Qrow rests an arm on his brother's shoulder. In a couple years' time, we'll be in the air searching for treasures, babes, and monsters.

Sparda: Like I'd ever forget that.

The brothers share a short laugh.

Qrow: Do you really think you can remove the coven system, brother?

In response to that, Sparda brings out his coin and flips it. It flies into the air and lands in his palm, which he opens to reveal heads and gives his brother another grin.

Sparda: Who knows? I gotta dream big. Maybe I can't change things. But WE can. And even if we can't change the way things work, I'm at least gonna make sure no one forgets who I am.

(End of Flashback)

Back in the present, Qrow stares at his brother's memento as he reminisces before closing his palm and looking in the direction of the Titan's skull. He puts the coin away and gets out his flask, proceeding to open it.

Qrow: People remember you, alright, Spard. But only as a villain through the lies Belos has created. He opens his flask. But I haven't forgotten my promise. I'm gonna fulfill both our dreams. I'll keep your kid safe.

Qrow takes a sip from his flask, stopping when he hears something move. He looks down to see a loose brick in front of him get dislodged. Running out is a small Abomination vaguely resembling Darius, which offers up a note. Qrow closes his flask and takes the note, giving it a quick read.

"We have something important to discuss. Right now."

Qrow knows who this note is from, one of his only allies in his mission. He hands the note back.

Qrow: Tell him I'm on my way.

The abomination nods and runs back into the ledge, pulling the brick back into place. Qrow gets off the edge and gives the Titan's skull one last look.

Qrow: I'll make sure you're remembered right, brother. You can count on it.

And with that, Qrow walks off. It's clear at this point the elder brother of Sparda has his reasons for being a Coven Head. He's on a mission for his deceased brother. What that mission is is unclear at the moment. For now, the day closes with Qrow making plans with his allies and Luke having learned all about how his father and surrogate mother became best friends.

And there we have it. This is how Sparda and Qrow met Eda and Lilith, the beginning of their story and the formation of the original Hex-Squad.

Up next, Hooty, who feels insignificant, decides to take it upon himself to help:

Luke win Amity's heart

Eda overcome her sleep deprivation

And King's identity crisis

Will Hooty succeed, or will his "help" end up doing more harm than good for his family?

The Owl House Season 2 Episode 10 – Knock, Knock, Knockin on Hooty's Door

Special thanks to:

Jimfire97 for Spelling and Grammar check
EezySeven for artwork
TyChav97 for dialogue help

(A/N: Please Review)