July 24, 1981

It was midnight in the dark hallows of England. There was a cozy home where a young woman, Antoinette, lived with her beloved daughter, Christina. While in their home, the young Christina, who was only three years old, heard someone knocking on the door. So tiny, curious, and innocent, she got up and tried to reach the door. When she finally reached the doorknob, she slightly opened it on her tiptoes. She silently opened the door. "Y...yes?" the young Christina asked innocently. When she opened the door, she saw a man with pale, almost translucent skin, red, snake-like eyes (with vertical pupils), a lipless, thin mouth, a pointed nose and chin, a bald head, and a tall, gaunt figure with a cold, expressionless face.

Behind him are four people cloaked in black. The man smiled menacingly and knelt to level himself with the girl. "Greetings, dear child. Didn't your mommy tell you not to open the door unless she told you to or you told her?" His voice was dark but had a gentle tone, "Who are you sirs?" The man grin widely, "We're your mommy's friend. well you let us in?" "But you're a stranger." the young girl sense something was wrong, so she tried to close the door but a hand block the door to prevent closing it, "We're here to visit your mommy my dear. it's been so long since we last saw her. we wanted to see her for the last time before we bid farewell." one of the black cloak slowly getting his wand to attack, when Christina opens the door widely because she got convinced by the man's "sincere" words and he immediately hide his wand back. The man stood up slowly with a menacing smile on his face.

Meanwhile, Antoinette was washing the dishes and doing the laundry when she noticed the silence from the living room. "Christina?" she called out to her daughter, but she didn't hear a single sound. Her maternal instinct told her that something was wrong, so she abandoned her work and went to the living room. Just as she expected, she was right to be scared when she saw them. "Ah, Antoinette. My lovely dear child. Didn't you teach your daughter not to open the door to strangers?" He laughed sharply. "Voldemort...!" Christina was in his lap while the man firmly held her. "Christina...." Antoinette called her daughter, and Christina saw the fear in her mother's expression.

"Mommy... mommy...." Christina started to feel scared from the aura in the room. The others who came in with Voldemort started to remove their cloaks and reveal themselves. "Long time no see, Antoinette," the man smiled. "Oh dear, seems like someone is in trouble, aren't we?" the woman chuckled. "This girl looks just like her father, but I wonder who she takes after? Duke or... Cassandra?" Antoinette can only feel her body tense as she looks at her daughter, then at Voldemort, who is sneering at her.

"You have one choice, Antoinette, dear. One is to tell us where you put the boy, or..." Voldemort's wand glimmers in the light as he points it at Christina's chest. "Or I'll use my magic to destroy her and make her pop like a bubble in front of you. It's your choice, Antoinette."

"Listen, Voldemort. I really don't know where the boy is. And I... I did not take him." Her voice was trembling from fear, not for herself but for her daughter. Christina sensed that there was something wrong, but she calmed down like her mother taught her. "Hmmm, strange, my dear. You're trembling." All of a sudden, Antoinette was flying off her feet, and her back hit the wall. Voldemort used his magic against her. The wall made a huge crack when Antoinette's body hit it; her body fell to the floor, she coughed, and took a breath.

Her lungs were knocked out from the impact. "Mommy...!" The young Christina pulled Voldemort's wand. He was surprised by the young girl who was brave enough to pull his wand away from his hand. With his other hand, Voldemort grabbed her clothes from the back of her neck and pulled her away from his wand. "You won't hurt my mommy...! Let go! Let go!" Voldemort only watched her with a mocking smile, then looked at his companions.

They understood what he wanted, so they took the girl, grabbed her by the shoulder, and pushed her roughly down to the floor. "Ahhh...! It hurts!" Hearing her daughter's scream, she slowly rose up. Before Voldemort could cast a spell on her again, Antoinette immediately pulled out her wand and quickly shouted the spell, "Expelliarmus!" The wand flew out of Voldemort's hand, which gave Antoinette the perfect opportunity to blast him off, followed by his companions.

*Zip!*

*Crack!*

*Crash!*

The sound of the magic made the young child scream in terror and immediately run to her mother. Voldemort's companions tried to use their magic against her, but Antoinette skillfully used her spells against them. "Depulso!" she shouted the spell, and one of Voldemort's companions was knocked out from their feet. Antoinette grabbed her daughter's arm and pulled Christina behind her. The Death Eaters pulled out their wands and pointed at them while Voldemort stood up. With a gesture of his hand, he snapped his fingers, and the wand flew back to him. "Christina, esteria ila ivetre!" (Christina, use your ivetre!)

Ivetre - is an ability for a witch to disappear and travel (more like teleportation) to other places; this also allows them to become invisible, like thin air. however if there's a powerful witch or wizard, they can sense them even if they used their Ivetre to be invisible.

"Avada Kedavra!" Voldemort casted the spell, but before it could even reach them, Christina's ivetre managed to keep them safe, and the spell hit the wall inside. It left a huge blast and made the wall collapse, leaving a big hole in it. Voldemort screamed in agony! He had failed to get what he wanted, but he wasn't willing to give up. He wanted to capture the boy so badly that he looked at his companions sharply and hissed angrily, "You're all useless! You let the woman escape; we must find them quickly!" The man walked out of the living room, and his companions followed him.

In the dark, cold, foggy, and rainy forest, Antoinette and Christina ran away as soon as they reached it, but it wasn't long before the Death Eaters found them. Their breaths were ragged, and sweat covered their faces. Antoinette feared them, especially Voldemort. I never thought they would find us! They want Lily's son! But even if they tortured me to death, I will never betray my friend! Never! Running too fast, Christina tripped over a tree trunk and fell to the ground. "Christina..!" "Awww.. Mommy, it hurts so bad!" Antoinette knelt down to check her daughter's foot, but then she stopped when she saw a shadow moving toward them, a silhouette. Antoinette hurriedly picked up Christina in her arms and started to run away.

Her heart was beating so fast that she could hear it; her breath was trembling and ragged with fear, and she was covered in cold sweat. She finally went deeper into the woods and hid Christina there. "Mommy..!" She put her down and shushed her, and a few seconds later, Voldemort and the rest of the Death Eaters were there with him. "Oh, Antoinette, where are you, my dear? Come on out; we know you're here." He glanced behind him. "Find them," he commanded with his deep, cold, and dark tone. Antoinette could feel his aura and energy, which sent chills down her spine. She already knew that this man was the most powerful dark wizard she had ever faced.

"She's not here, nor is her daughter." "Did she manage to escape?" The Dark Eaters kept looking around. Christina looked up at her mother. Antoinette realized that even if they hid anywhere, Voldemort and his companions are still going to find them no matter what. Antoinette was scared and had never been brave about anything before, but this time, everything changed. She made her daughter face her and patted her head while placing both hands on Christina's cheeks and smiling as tears streamed down her face.

"Oh, Christina, dearest daughter of mine, My love for you will forever be divine. I regret not speaking from my heart before, But I hope someday you'll forgive and understand more. When truth reveals itself and time heals the pain, Know that I love you, Tina, my love will always remain." She pulled her daughter into a tight embrace and then kissed her forehead as she whispered her final words, "I love you." She took her wand and gently pulled away from her daughter.

She then cast a spell in a whispering voice while she waved her wand. "Obliviate!"  The spell got to Christina's forehead and in the eyes of the young girl are her flashing memories of who she was, her encounters with magical places, her abilities, and her identity. Her memories were slowly fading away, gone, making her forget who she is. The only thing that remained to her was her name, but not her true story or her identity. "Manea Dul" Antoinette cast another spell that replaces Christina's memory that she is born as a human and not a witch.

Manea Dul - a spell that can manipulate the memories such as changing their old past to a new ones so that the real identity will stay hidden from the host. this spell can be only broken if there's a professional or powerful witch and wizard to broke the spell. 

Antoinette caught her daughter before she could hit herself against the tree, and then she slowly put her down. Everything was foggy, and the voices were slowly drifting away. The only thing she remembered was her mother gently moving the strands of her hair and kissing her forehead before walking away. She could still hear voices. "There...! She's there!" "Get her!" Antoinette ran away; she was like prey running from monstrous predators, and then Christina slowly closed her eyes in her deep sleep...

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Seven years later

July 26, 1988, in a busy street in London

In the cozy house of the Harrison family, one of them was not a member of their family. The girl who had just turned ten years old woke up when Mrs. Harrison shouted from the basement, "Christina!! Open your eyes and do some work here; don't be lazy around!" "Yes, Mrs. Harrison, coming!" Christina sighed deeply and fixed her sleeping sheet and pillows to put them on top of the boxes.

When she was about to go out, Mrs. Harrison's daughter bumped into her on purpose, causing Christina to fall to the floor. The girl, Amrita, only sneered and laughed at her. "Oops, sorry. Didn't see you in there. Haha!" She ran to the kitchen while Christina was massaging her back as she slowly got up.

Mr. Harrison came down and saw Christina, greeting her with a warm smile. "Tina, good morning, dear." Christina saw him and greeted him with a polite smile. "Good morning to you as well, Mr. Harrison." Mr. Harrison glanced at the table, then shifted his gaze to her.

"Tina, it's early in the morning. Why don't you join us? Breakfast is served." Christina only smiled at him sadly. She knew that she couldn't join them; Mrs. Harrison and her daughter wouldn't even allow it. Mrs. Harrison heard him, and as expected, she didn't like him inviting Christina to eat breakfast with them.

"Thank you for your kindness, sir. But I can't. I have work to do." Mr. Harrison shook his head and gently patted her hair. "Tina dear, you can't go to work without eating. Come on, join us," he said while nodding to the kitchen. Christina had no choice but to follow; after all, she was only a servant in this house.

"Daddy, what is she doing here?" Mr. Harrison pulled out a chair and gestured for Christina to sit down beside Amrita. Christina grew anxious when she saw Amrita's furious look; sitting beside her was not a good idea at all, but Mr. Harrison wanted her to sit next to her. With no choice left, she went to the chair and sat beside her. "Amrita, you must always remember that even if she is a servant in this house, we must treat her like she's one of us. In this house, we're all family." "But Daddy, she is not part of our family. And I don't want to sit beside her. Make her sit in the corner!" Christina only bit her lower lip to avoid saying something that could cause trouble not only for herself but also for Mr. Harrison.

Mr. Harrison was the only family member who was kind to her, unlike his wife and daughter, who were a terrible mother-daughter duo that always mistreated her. Especially when Mr. Harrison was away, they bullied her and locked her in the basement when she made even the slightest mistake. They made her a maid in the house while she served the princess and her daughter.

She really wanted to fight back a long time ago, but she was afraid to get kick out from the house. Because if she got kicked out, where would she go? She didn't even know who her parents is or who she truly was. Mr. Harrison was kind enough to take her in, but his wife and daughter didn't like to see her in their house. After all, she was just an outsider and didn't belong in their home.

"What did your mother teach you that influenced you to behave so badly, Amrita? Did I just raise a spoiled brat?" Amrita was taken aback by her father's words, which made her angry. "You always defend her, Daddy! I'm your daughter, not this slumped girl!" "Because it's the truth, Amrita. I only see what I witnessed inside this house. A daughter once so dear to me, now lost in behavior, I despise it so much! Your actions pierce my heart, and I tremble at the thought of who you're becoming. Still, my love for you remains, but I will not stand idly by as you stray further from the path. I will not tolerate this change in you, my child." Mr. Harrison sadly said and the young girl only grunted and crossed her arms over her chest as she stomped her foot on Christina's, making her yelp in pain and surprise as she hit her knee under the table.

The table made a banging sound, Mr. Harrison knew what was going on, so he set down his meal. "And where are you going? You still haven't finished your breakfast yet!" "I don't feel like eating; go eat if you want." Mr. Harrison took his coat and bag before he left the house. As soon as they heard the car driving away, Mrs. Harrison came back and watched Christina with a meaningful look. "How dare you ruin our family breakfast! Get out of that chair and start cleaning the house, you wimp child! You will not eat today!"

"It is not my fault that I ruined your family breakfast. It is your daughter who ruined it; she bullied me. Mr. Harrison didn't tolerate her behavior; that's why he scolded her! And it is not my fault that you taught her to be a spoiled brat!"

Mrs. Harrison was furious at Christina's response. "How dare you talk back to me! I will teach you a lesson-" Before she could even get closer to her, Christina jumped out of her seat, slammed her hand against the table, and gave a furious look to Mrs. Harrison. "Dare to lay a hand on me, and regret will be your decree!"

"How dare you talk to my mother like that!" Amrita grabs her wrist roughly, but Christina, out of rage, has suddenly found the strength to pull her hand away and push her down. "Ahhhh...! Aww...!" "Amrita!" Mrs. Harrison kneels down to gently pull Amrita up, then she furiously gives Christina a deadly look. "How dare you touch my daughter, you brat!" Christina is shocked and scared. Where did I get that strength? I'm too fragile to push her down like that...

She stood up and went to Christina and dragged her roughly with her. "You will clean up this mess, everything! You will be locked up in the basement!" "Let go of me! You're so evil; I feel pity for Mr. Harrison that he has you as his wife!" Mrs. Harrison gave her a hard slap. Christina fell on the floor, her cheeks burning with red marks on her face. "You will leave my house, you ungrateful brat!" She then went back to take Christina and dragged her again to kick her out. But as soon as she pushed her to the ground, a large group of owls surrounded her house; the others stood on the mailbox and trees, watching her intently. Mrs. Harrison and her daughter stood there, watching the owls with confusion and fear. Christina also did the same; she looked around only to see owls everywhere.

Why are owls everywhere? Aren't they supposed to be sleeping at night? One of the owls suddenly attacked Mrs. Harrison and her daughter was terrified that she back away but then rest of the owls flew to charge at them. Amrita and Mrs. Harrison screamed and threw their arms, shooing away the owls while covering their faces to protect themselves from the group of owls.

Amrita and her mother ran back inside their house, but even then, the owls got inside and made a mess as they attacked them. Amrita and Mrs. Harrison were in the corner of the wall, hugging each other, and this time, the owls broke every piece of furniture inside the house. Mrs. Harrison could only scream and cry while her daughter was crying out of fear.

Meanwhile, Christina was still on the ground, confused about what was going on when she heard the mother and daughter scream inside. She immediately stood up and slowly walked back inside the house while her jaw dropped in shock to see a few owls circling around the living room. An owl flew behind her, and she quickly dodged it before she got hit. The owl perched on the coat stand, and Christina saw a small envelope from the owl's beak. "Take it, take it." Christina's eyes widened; she just heard the owl talk! She turned to look at Mrs. Harrison and Amrita, who were still terrified and kept backing away to the wall.

They seemed not to have heard the owl talking to her. "Take it, take it." Was she the only one who could hear it? Christina carefully took the small envelope from the owl's beak. Christina looked down at the small envelope, then back at the owl. "Uh... thanks? But is it for me?" "Yes... yes... for you," the owl replied with a nod. Christina looked back at the small envelope. It was elegant, ethereal, brown, with a letter "H" on the red wax stamp.

Curious, she opened the envelope to read the letter. At first, she started to read the letter from the top: "Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry," then she began to read the full message.

Dear Smith,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Terms will begin on September 1; we await your owl by no later than July 31.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Christina closed the letter, still confused. She went close to the owl. "What does it mean? I don't understand. Hogwarts? Headmistress? What place is that? There is no existence of Hogwarts school..." "My dear, what a mess this house is!" a woman suddenly spoke from outside the house. She walked in and clapped her hands. "Now, now, my dear friends, stop making a mess of the house. Look, the poor house looks like it has been through a storm!" The woman was wearing an all-black mermaid dress with an elegant hat on her head. She gave a mischievous look to Christina. "My, isn't this Christina! My gorgeous girl!" The woman walked towards her with open arms, and when she reached her, she hugged Christina tightly.

"You're so big now!" the woman said, giggling, then laughed happily as she pulled away to pinch lightly on Christina's cheek. "You look so skinny, my dear!" "Uh... wait...!" Christina pulled away from her while looking closely at her. "Who are you?" The woman snapped her fingers. In one snap of her fingers, the owls flew out from the house, all the broken furniture was repaired, and the other furniture was back in its place. The whole house was clean again.

"Mom, is it over?"

"What was that?! You... a witch!"

"Shush!"

The woman gave them a warning look. Mrs. Harrison and Amrita immediately zipped their mouths, still shocked and trembling with fear. Only Christina stood motionless; she looked around the house. Everything was indeed clean. "What did you do?" she slowly looked back at her. "Who on earth are you?" The woman only smiled as the owl that was on the coat stand was now on the woman's shoulder. Who on earth is she?

The young girl looks intently at the enigmatic woman before her. "Witch? What does that mean?" The woman smiles, takes a seat on the couch, and crosses her legs, keeping her gaze on the girl. "Yes, my dear. You are a witch. You're not just an ordinary human, Tina. You have the blood of witches and wizards in you, and that letter is from Hogwarts Academy."

She takes off her gloves and sets them down next to her, along with her hat, then adds, "At that academy, you'll learn about magic spells and potions! Isn't that exciting, my dear?" Christina gazes at her with skepticism. Is this woman joking? What kind of trick is this? Me? A witch? No chance!  "I'm sorry, ma'am, but I believe you have the wrong person and have confused me with someone else."

"I'm not mistaken, my dear. You're Christina, James' younger sister. He was quite famous for his history, and it's sad that he didn't make it past his seventh year." The woman laughed bitterly while she looked at the young girl. Her eyes saddened at the sight of her. She remembered the person she resembled.

"You have your mother's eyes, my dear." Christina's heart dropped when she heard the woman mention her name. "My mom? Do you know who my mom is? Where is she?" The woman sadly smiled at her and reached for the girl's hand. "I'm so sorry, my dear. Your parents..." She stopped, then sighed before continuing her last words, "Your parents died that night. They died... when you were just a baby." Christina's hopes and faith in finding her mother were ultimately futile. Her mother had passed away when she was just a baby, leaving her with no memories of her. Christina felt lost, unsure whether to cry or blame herself.

"Come on, Christina doesn’t have a father. She only had her mother. Let me tell you, Christina, your mother died because of you," a girl sneered, her smile malicious. Her mother chimed in, "That's right, your mother died because you let a stranger in. They killed her! Because of you—" Mrs. Harrison's words were cut off as the woman swiftly took out her wand and cast a spell.  "Oscausi!"

Mrs. Harrison's mouth vanished! She screamed silently, unable to make a sound, while her daughter cried out, "Mommy!!" Turning fiercely to the woman, she demanded, "What did you do to my mother?! I... I will make you pay! Ahhh!" She charged at the woman, but the woman just laughed and cast another spell. "Immobulus!" Amrita stood still, unable to move, and then collapsed onto the floor. Christina gasped in shock. "What did you do to them?" she asked. "Oh, don't worry, my dear; they're perfectly fine. They'll return to normal thanks to my delightful spells. They were just too loud for us to concentrate on this matter. Now, where was I?"

"Are you a witch? I heard what Mrs. Harrison mentioned about you earlier..." The woman smiled at her. "Yes, dear, I am a witch, just like you. However, there's a difference: I'm a pure witch, while you have mixed blood—part witch and part wizard." She winked at her, and the girl clasped her hands. "Oh, I haven't introduced myself properly. I'm Georgia Walker, a friend of your mother's."

"Georgia? If you know my mother, then you already know me. However, I don't recall anything about you or my past." Georgia was taken aback by her words, but then she remembered something. "I think it's because of your mother," she said. "She removed all your memories that could trigger problems in your life. She did this to protect you." "Protect me? From whom?" "From the dark wizard. Those dark magicians are evil, Christina. No wonder your mom removed all your memories about your true identity." Georgia said this with a serious tone.

Christina glanced down at the letter in her hand and then looked back at Mrs. Harrison and Amrita. "Georgia, if I'm a witch, are these two also witches?" she asked. Mrs. Harrison's expression turned alert, and she let out a loud, "Hmmm...!!! Hmmm...!!"

Georgia simply watched her with amusement. "No, my dear, they're not," she explained. "Although Amrita's father is a wizard, her mother is a muggle, which means Amrita didn't inherit any magical powers. Unlike you, my dear." "Muggles?" Christina repeated. "Muggles are non-magical people, just like Mrs. Harrison," Georgia clarified.

"Sadly, if Mrs. Harrison's daughter were to possess magical powers, she would be considered a half-blood, but Amrita didn't. So, her status is more like a Squib, a child born to a magical and non-magical parent. Squibs can see the magical world, but they don't have any powers." Christina sneered at Amrita, who was still lying on the floor, frozen. "You heard that, Amrita. You can see magical places, but you don't have any powers. How sad for you. Tsk tsk," she said sarcastically. "But at least you can go to the magical place, like Hogwarts?"

"Amrita doesn't have a letter from McGonagall, which means she isn't accepted to the school." Georgia paused before continuing, "However, if a Squib did manage to get an acceptance letter from Hogwarts, they'd face significant challenges within the school, making it tough for Amrita." Georgia then waved her wand and cast the spell "Petrificus Totalus"

After the spell took effect, Amrita stood up, enraged, and shouted at Christina, "How can this weakling attend the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry while I'm not allowed?! My father is a wizard, and I can inherit his powers too!" Georgia crossed her arms and replied, "Can you, really? What powers, exactly?"

Amrita stopped, realizing she didn't possess any special powers. Undeterred, she was determined to prove herself worthy of attending Hogwarts. Her eyes fixed on the wand, and she attempted to snatch it, but Georgia was too quick, swiftly pulling her hand away and causing Amrita to stumble. "Give that to me!" Amrita exclaimed desperately. Georgia winced, disappointment and disapproval etched on her face.

She turned to Mrs. Harrison, saying, "As a mother, you've failed to teach your daughter discipline, respect, and manners. Her arrogance and spoiled nature are precisely why she wasn't accepted into Hogwarts." Georgia's harsh words left Amrita's face red with fury and shame. She shot Christina an angry glance, exclaiming, "You always take everything from me, Christina!"

Christina let out a tired sigh as she watched Amrita break down in tears, feeling no sympathy for her, only irritation, which was clear on her face. "Look, Amrita, I didn't take anything from you," Christina said bluntly. "Your behavior led to this. You drove your father away, not me. You bullied me, and your mom mistreated me, but instead of taking responsibility, you blame me. Now you're upset because I got into school and you didn't. The truth is, I got in because I have abilities you don't. When faced with someone more powerful, you try to prove yourself, but it's clear you're not as capable as you think. If you want to prove your worth, show me what you're capable of, not just your wealth and family connections. Your mom has poisoned your mind, making your life miserable. A mother should make her daughter's life better, not worse." Christina's words were harsh, but she felt relieved to have finally expressed her feelings, hoping Amrita would take them to heart.

Georgia only watched, but she couldn't help but smile faintly as she saw not only Christina standing up for herself, but also teaching Amrita a valuable lesson. She has your bravery and clarity, Cassandra - she's definitely taken after you.

To be Continued....

"You're handling this situation all by yourself, and that reminds me of someone else who's just like you. She's a lot like her great-grandmother, too." Georgia smiled as she thought of an old friend she had lost. "Come on, Tina, let's get out of here. You don't deserve to live in a place like this. Grab your things and let's go." Just as Georgia was about to leave, Christina grabbed her arm. "Wait, I don't have anything to take with me except for a music box and a necklace that Mr. Harrison gave me." "Those are precious items, take them with you, dear. You should always keep gifts from people who are kind to you." Georgia nodded, and Christina quickly ran to the basement, where she lived, to gather her belongings.

As Christina gathered her belongings, Amrita rushed to Georgia, her knee almost pleading, 'Wait, my mother!' Georgia reassured her, 'Don't worry, my dear, I'll cast a spell for your mother.' With a wave of her wand and a whispered "Silencio," Mrs. Harrison's voice was now back. Amrita rushed to her mother's side, but her hand was slapped away, and Mrs. Harrison glared at Georgia, who warned,

"Don't even think about speaking, Mrs. Harrison, or I'll silence you again." Just then, Christina arrived, exclaiming, "I'm here!" " Today, we will leave this house and we'll get your school books and equipment. We'll also start your training." With a smile, Christina nodded, "Now, hold me tight, we're traveling fast." In an instant, they vanished, and Christina found herself in a different dimension.

Inside the dimension, everything moved at an incredible pace, making it difficult for her to see due to the stinging wind in her eyes. However, she could hear voices.

'"Mommy, over here!'"

"Alexa, don't run too fast, you'll fall!"

"Does anyone want a newspaper with the latest gossip?"

The speed was overwhelming, leaving her feeling dizzy and nauseous. Then, she heard a voice calling out to her.

"Christina... Christina..." The voice was feminine, but unfamiliar. Another voice, this time male, called out, "Christina, my beloved princess." She felt a growing sense of dizziness, and her surroundings began to darken. Georgia tried to call out to her, but her voice was too distant. Eventually, Christina drifted off to sleep.

That Night at Hogwarts Academy...

Professor McGonagall spent the entire day writing acceptance letters to the new first years who would arrive on September 1. As she penned her final letter, a strange green haze seeped into the room through the gap under the door. Sensing something was amiss, Professor McGonagall stood up, wand at the ready.

"I can sense someone's presence," she commanded. "Show yourself." But there was no response. Suddenly, she spun around to face a figure clad in a black cloak and mask. With swift reflexes, Professor McGonagall defended herself against the mysterious opponent.

*Crack!*

*Zip!*

"Protego!" The magic charm Professor McGonagall used to block magic didn't work, especially when the man cast an unfamiliar spell. "Kentra Vuk!"

Kentra Vuk - A powerful spell capable of shattering a protective barrier and harming the caster of the protection charm.

The powerful spell shattered the barrier, sending Professor McGonagall flying into the wall. She crashed to the floor, her wand slipping out of reach. As she struggled to retrieve it, a man stepped on it, pinning it to the ground. Professor McGonagall looked up at him, her eyes wide with fear. "W...who are you?" she stuttered, but the man remained silent, instead chanting a mysterious spell. "Patroemvuk!"

Patroemvuk - This spell has the power to manipulate someone's mind, controlling their thoughts and altering their memories. It can also turn its victim into a puppet, rendering them motionless and devoid of emotions or actions.

Professor McGonagall remained motionless, her expression suddenly neutral. A young man's soft, angelic voice, laced with a harsh command, instructed her, "You will do exactly as I say. Stand up."

Professor McGonagall obediently followed his instructions, writing a letter to Christina Smith, accepting her into Hogwarts. After sealing the letter, she was told to send all the letters, especially Christina's, immediately.

Once the task was complete, she was ordered to take a nap. The mysterious man, satisfied with the outcome "Now everything will be according to the plan." He approached Professor McGonagall, commanding her to forget the entire encounter, remembering only that she had written letters to the first-year students. As soon as she acknowledged his instructions, Professor McGonagall fell asleep, her head on the table.

In the next morning....

Christina jolted awake, disoriented and gasping, as she took in the strange room. Georgia entered, finding her struggling to sit up, a headache pinching her face. "Hey, you okay? The flight was pretty long, seems like you still haven't get used to your Ivetre." Georgia said.

Christina's gaze drifted to Georgia, confusion etched on her face. "Ivetre?" she repeated, the word sparking a fleeting sense of familiarity.

"Yes, Ivetre," Georgia said. "It's a power witches use for teleportation and invisibility. But it's tricky - you need to know the place you're teleporting to, and it won't work if you're restrained."

Christina's eyes locked onto Georgia's. "Me? I have that kind ability? but we don't even sure that I am a witch. and how can I used this Ivetre?"

Georgia smile, pat her head, and gently said "I'll teach you how to harness it. It'll take time, but I'm here to guide you." Christina's mind reeled as she struggled to wrap her head around the idea of being a witch. She didn't even know who she was, let alone how to tap into some magical ability. The word "witch" still echoed in her mind, conflicting with her human identity. Was my memories playing a trick on me?

Georgia's voice burst forth, her excitement infectious. "Before we forget, we're off to Diagon Alley! We'll get all the essentials for your first year at Hogwarts!" Christina's eyes widened, and she quickly sat up, calling out to Georgia before she could leave. "Wait! Georgia, I don't have any money with me..." A gentle smile spread across Georgia's face. "Don't worry, dear. I've got everything covered. Just get ready, I'll be waiting for you downstairs."

As they made their way to Diagon Alley, the air was filled with the hum of magic and wonder. They strolled through the bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the wizarding world. Christina's eyes widened as they approached a quaint little shop, the sign above the door reading "Grimmauld Place Gallons".

Georgia pushed open the door, and they stepped inside. The shop was cozy, with shelves upon shelves of gleaming glass containers filled with all manner of liquids and potions. A friendly witch behind the counter greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome, young witches! What can I help you with today?" Georgia smile to the owner "Hello Ariella, I'm here to take Gallons for Christina." Ariella look behind from Georgia to see Christina. "Oh dear, you're Christina. My, you look just like your mother before. but you have your father's eyes." Ariella smile kindly as she took something from the shelves.

Georgia took charge, ordering a few gallons of the finest potions and elixirs for Christina's first year at Hogwarts. As they waited, Christina couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and wonder. She was really doing this. I can't believe I'm actually doing it, I'm not even sure if I am excited or nervous at same time. It's magical place!

What's even more surprising for her is that the way they get to the Diagon Alley is also a magic, like Georgia said, ordinary humans can't see the magical place, only those who are born with magic can see them. "But, where can we even find the wand? You said that I need my own wand." "Yes dear, and now we're getting yours."

Christina and Georgia went to the different store to get Christina's wand. "Is getting my wand will be easy? How did you get yours?" Georgia smile "I brought mine. You see getting the wand is not only something you brought. You have to own it, so yes, it's not easy to find a wand for yourself. A wand has... choices of taste when they choose their master or mistress, more like the wand chooses their wizard or witch not the holder, and once they choose you, you will own it. You and your wand need connections." Christina look to Georgia with questionable look " 'Connections' like what?" "Connections, more like the wand choose you but they test you first before you own them. You can feel their magic that ties both of you. you'll know once we get there."

Georgia seems doesn't know the answer, she pretends she knows but is connections to a wand really work??? When they reach to the store, Christina reads aloud "Ollivanders Wand Shop" Georgia place a hand on her shoulder "Good luck, my dear." Christina understand what it was meant, so she glance at her "Wait, your not coming inside with me?" Georgia shook her head "No dear, I have something to do. But don't worry, I'll be right back." Georgia gently push her to the store and Christina slowly getting inside. As soon she step inside, a soft bell above the door tinkles, she was immediately meet with cozy, dimy lit store with a warm wooden interior. The walls are lined with shelves that stretch up to the ceiling, stacked with wands, wand cases, and boxes of wand-making materials. The air is thick with the scent of wood and magic.

As Christina took a step inside a little more, the floor creaks beneath her feet making her flinch and she also hears other sound, like a shelves seem to whisper on her ears as if telling the secrets at each other, and also the sound of soft scratching of quill pen on parchment. There, she saw a man taking some notes. Is that the owner of the shop?

In the center of the room, a long, velvet-draped counter stretches, with a single, elegant chair behind it. Mr. Ollivander, the wandmaker, sits in the chair, and he stops writing hearing someone inside his store. Mr. Ollivander look to see a young girl, his piercing eyes watching her from beneath his bushy eyebrows. The wands on display seem to shimmer and glow in the soft light, as if they're alive, waiting to find their perfect match.

Christina clears her throat and smile awkwardly. "H-Hello...sir. I'm here to-" "get your wand?" Christina nodded "Yes, sir." Ollivander look at her with suspicious "You're too young to hold a wand, young girl." Christina tilted her head "My name is Christina Smith. And, I was enrolled to Hogwart." Ollivander was surprised and he lean a little bit closer. "My dear, may I ask how old are you?" "Uhm...ten?" "You're ten years old?" Christina can only nod and look to her surroundings. "But that can't be. You're too young to enroll in Hogwart dear. You're not Eleven years old. In first years, the age of children needs to be at least Eleven years old before enrolling Hogwart. Something must have been a mistake."

Christina's eyes widened in surprise and confusion. "Only eleven years old? Then how did I get this letter? Is it a mistake?" She gently took the letter from her bag and handed it to Ollivander.

With a wave of his wand, the letter floated out of Christina's hands and into Ollivander's. He read it silently, his expression unreadable. Christina's anxiety grew as she waited, unsure of what to expect.

"Impossible..." Ollivander murmured, "Why would McGonagall accept you, knowing you're too young? And your last name is Smith... Are you related to James Smith?" Christina's brow furrowed in confusion; she didn't recognize the name. She shook her head, "I...I don't know, sir."

Ollivander's piercing gaze made her uncomfortable, but he eventually stood up, a warm smile spreading across his face. He handed Christina back her letter. "Well, since the letter was sent to you and you've been enrolled at Hogwarts, I'm sure McGonagall has her reasons. And of course, you can't attend Hogwarts without a wand." He winked, and Christina's tension eased as she smiled in relief.

"So many wands in your shop. Is it really true that the wand test you first before you own them?" Ollivander chuckle hearing her question "I don't think I ever heard the wand test you before. But choosing the wand is not too easy. I have wands that you can try." Ollivander took three boxes of wand. "Try these three, it might help your preference." Christina look the tree boxes closely and she choose one of the box and open it. "Ah, the willow wood with unicorn hair core. Why don't you give a try?" Christina nod and she gently wave her wand, but then...

*Woosh!*

*Crack!*

Christina gasped as she flinched when the magic burst out of the wand, hitting the shelves, ceiling, walls, and floor, forcing her and Ollivander to duck and jump aside to avoid getting hit. The magic finally struck a stack of books, sending them tumbling to the floor with a loud thud.

With shaking hands, Christina carefully returned the wand to its box and gently closed it. "I guess... it's not the right wand..." she said, her voice trembling. Ollivander chuckled nervously.

Christina tried again, but the wands didn't seem to work for her. She began to feel nervous, her eyes seeking reassurance from Ollivander. "Oh, Mr. Ollivander, I don't think I can hold my own wand... None of them seem to-"

She stopped mid-sentence, a sudden realization dawling on her. "Wait a minute... Mr. Ollivander, sir, if you don't mind, can I take a look around your shop? Maybe I can find my own wand." Ollivander raised an eyebrow. "And how so?"

Christina smiled, a newfound determination in her eyes. "Well, sir, if I can't choose my own wand, maybe the right one will find me. As someone said, the wand chooses the wizard or witch, not the other way around." Ollivander's expression softened, understanding dawning on him. He realized that the wands weren't responding to Christina because they hadn't chosen her yet. Each wand had its own preferences, waiting for the right witch or wizard to come along.

Christina's fingertips danced across the shelf, a smile spreading across her face as she took in the magical sight. Her gaze wandered, and she stopped when something caught her eye - a faint shine from the other side of the shelf. Curious, she followed the light and spotted a box, a soft glow emanating from within. She picked up the wooden box and opened it carefully. As she did, the room brightened, and Christina shielded her face from the light. When she finally looked inside, she saw a wand, its light slowly fading. She took a closer look at the 11-inch wand, her eyes widening with wonder.

Ollivander appeared behind her, a smile on his face. "Ah, a wand made of Oak Wood with a Unicorn Hair core," he said, his voice filled with admiration. Christina turned to him, her eyes still fixed on the wand. "What does it do?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ollivander's eyes twinkled. "This wand embodies pure kindness, gentleness, wisdom, and loyalty. The Oak wand is devoted to its master, choosing only those with courage, strength, and loyalty. And it seems, my dear, that the Oak wand has chosen you."

Christina gently placed the box down and grasped the wand, her eyes widening in awe. "Wow..." She turned it over in her hand, examining it carefully. But their moment of joy was short-lived. The wand suddenly sprang to life, moving on its own and catching Christina off guard.

*Whoosh!*

She stumbled, almost losing her footing as the wand tugged her along.

"Ah!" she cried out, releasing her grip. The wand hovered in mid-air, and Ollivander quickly caught it before it could fly off. "Oh dear," Ollivander exclaimed quietly, Christina tried to grab it back, but the wand was too fast, darting around the store with incredible speed. "Hey!" she shouted, chasing after it. "It's like this wand is testing me," she muttered, determination etched on her face. She recalled something Georgia had said, and her eyes narrowed as she focused on the wand.

With her eyes closed, Christina listened to the sound of the wand, tracking its movements. She followed the noise, her hand extended..." Gotcha!" she exclaimed, finally grasping the wand firmly but gently, avoiding breaking it. The wand calmed in her hand, seeming to settle into its new home. "It looks like everything is settled now," Ollivander said with a light chuckle, and Christina smiled back at him. "Time to get this wand, Mr. Ollivander!" she exclaimed.

As Christina exited the store, the soft bell above the door tinkled again. Georgia approached her, a golden brown and white owl perched in a cage beside her. "I see you've got your wand," Georgia said. "Wow, whose owl is this?" Christina asked, bending down to admire the bird.

"Yours, my dear," Georgia replied, handing Christina the cage. "This is Amira. She'll be your friend, guide, and messenger. She's yours now." Christina's eyes widened in amazement. "Wow, she's gorgeous! Where did you get her?" "I got her from an owl store. A friend of mine breeds owls, and She gave me Amira for you," Georgia explained. Christina was overjoyed, having acquired not only a wand but also an owl in one day.

"Oh, right," Georgia continued, "let's head back to my house. I'll teach you how to use your powers as a wit'sch – beyond just the wand. Come on." Once they arrived at Georgia's house, she took Christina outside. "Now, Tina, listen carefully," Georgia began. "When using the Ivetre, remember its weakness. It only works if your hands and feet are free. If you're tied up, you can't use it."

Christina's curiosity was piqué. "What is Ivetre used for?" "It's for traveling and becoming invisible," Georgia explained. "But be warned, powerful sorcerers can still track you down, even with Ivetre. Don't forget that you can also go to places using Ivetre if you already get there or know that place." Christina replayed the instructions in her mind, trying to absorb every detail. "Okay, let's get started," Georgia said. "Think of a place you remember or want to go. Focus on it, and the Ivetre will take you there."

Christina nodded, closing her eyes tightly. She pictured a place she had visited long ago, during the Harrison family's vacation. As she concentrated, a cold wind swept through her, lifting her off the ground. She felt herself being carried away, her feet leaving the earth. In an instant, she was gone, feeling weightless and free like the wind. When she finally opened her eyes, she gasped at the breathtaking sight before her – a lush green hill adorned with vibrant flowers. "Did I...did I do this?" she whispered, amazed. She approached the flowers, gently touching them.

Her wonder was short-lived, as she remembered Georgia was waiting for her. She focused again, using her Ivetre to return. As she reappeared beside Georgia, her mentor beamed with pride. "Bravo, my girl, bravo!" Georgia exclaimed, clapping her hands. "You did great using your Ivetre on your first try!" Christina smiled shyly. "I didn't know I could do that." "Let's train some more," Georgia said confidently, and Christina nodded in agreement.

They trained tirelessly, day and night, until Christina's powers grew stronger and more precise. Georgia taught her various spells, charms, and potions, pushing her to master each skill. Finally, the day arrived for Christina to depart for Hogwarts.

September 1, 1988

London Train Station...

As they walked through the bustling station, Christina's eyes scanned the crowd, taking in the sights and sounds of students saying goodbye to their families. She pushed a cart laden with three bags and Amira's cage. Georgia stopped, pulled out a small card, and handed it to Christina. "A platform card," she explained. "This is the train you'll be taking."

Christina took the card, her brow furrowed in curiosity. "Aren't you coming with me?" she asked, looking up at Georgia. Georgia shook her head. "I can't, I have business to attend to. You'll be fine on your own."

Christina's heart skipped a beat as she felt a pang of nervousness. She had never traveled alone before. She glanced down at the card: Platform 9 3/4. "But Georgia, there must be a mistake," she said, looking up. "There is no-" She turned to ask Georgia, but her mentor was already wentne, vanished into the crowd. Christina's eyes widened as she realized she'd have to find the platform alone.

With determination, she pushed her cart through the throng, stopping a guard to ask directions. "Excuse me, sir, where is Platform 9 3/4?" The guard snorted. "Kid, are you kidding? There ain't no such thing as Platform 9 3/4. That platform don't exist!" Christina's hope began to dwindle, but she refused to give up. She continued searching, her eyes scanning the station, until she felt like she'd hit a dead end. Christina's gaze wandered, taking in the bustling station, until a mother's voice caught her attention. "Did you get everything you needed?" she asked her daughter.

Christina watched as the mother fussed over her child's belongings, while the young girl, who look older than her. bit older than her, seemed impatient. "Mom, everything's ready. I'll be fine, okay?" the girl said, her tone a mix of frustration and affection. The mother turned to her eldest, a young woman named Isabella, who was preparing to depart. "No, Isabella, you go first. Go on!" she said, nodding encouragingly.

Isabella faced the wall of the corridor and, without hesitation, ran straight into it. Christina's eyes widened in shock as she gasped, looking around to see if anyone else had witnessed the strange scene. The mother smiled and turned to her other daughter, Mary. "Now you, Mary." Mary followed Isabella's example, disappearing into the wall with a smooth, practiced motion. Christina's confusion and curiosity got the better of her, and she hurried over to the woman. "Excuse me, ma'am?" she said, approaching hesitantly. "Yes, dear?" the woman replied, her smile warm and inviting.

Christina hesitated, feeling a bit out of place. "I'm sorry to bother you... it's my first time going to... to Hogwarts, and I... can you please tell me how to get inside the wall?" The woman's expression turned understanding. "Oh my, well of course. Don't worry, my daughter Rowan is also going to Hogwarts for the first time. But you seemed a bit young to be attending Hogwarts," she added, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Christina tried to deflect the question, laughing awkwardly. "It's my genes... my face looks young,, but my age doesn't agree with it."

The woman's smiles never wavered, and she gently placed a hand on Christina's shoulder. "Well, that explained a lot. To get to Platform 9 3/4, just stand between the walls of 9 and 10, and then walk straight ahead... or run, like my daughters did." Christina smiles, feeling a sense of relief. "Thank you..." The woman and her daughter stepped aside, allowing Christina to take her place between the walls. As she prepared to make her move, a girl spoke up behind her. "Good luck..."

Christina nodded, took a deep breath, and ran straight into the wall. She closed her eyes, bracing for impact, but instead, she felt herself being pulled through. When she opened her eyes, she was standing on Platform 9 3/4, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of students and parents saying their goodbyes. She chuckled, grinning from ear to ear, as she took in the sights and sounds of the platform. Just then, a girl yelped in surprise, having followed Christina through the wall. She turned to see Rowan adjusting her glasses, a sheepish look on her face.

Rowan and Christina exchanged glances, Christina's face breaking into a smile as Rowan laughed awkwardly. "Well, that was a bit awkward for our first meeting. What are you still doing here? Come on, the train's leaving," Rowan said, nodding towards the train before moving forward. Christina followed her, and they found their seats, settling in for the journey. As Christina gazed out the window, her heart racing with excitement and nerves, Rowan spoke up. "Are you feeling nervous too?" She pulled out a small pack of candies from her bag and offered some to Christina, who gratefully accepted. "Thanks... to be honest, I am. It's my first time, after all," Christina admitted.

Rowan nodded understandingly, knowing exactly how Christina felt. "It's okay, we're first-timers, after all. By the way, I'm Rowan North," she said, extending her hand. Christina shook it, introducing herself as Christina Smith. Rowan's expression turned curious. "Wait, Smith?" she repeated, her eyes widening. "As in... the Smith?" Christina nodded, unsure what to expect. Rowan's eyes grew wide, and she leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. "Are you related to James Smith?"

Christina shook her head, trying to place the name. "James Smith? I don't know him. Who is he?" Rowan leaned back, her expression serious. "James Smith was a famous rebellious Gryffindor student. He broke the rules and disappeared. No one knows where he is now. I thought you might be related, given the same surname." Christina shrugged. "Maybe we just share a surname, but we're not related."

Rowan nodded, her eyes still sparkling with curiosity. "Yeah, probably. You don't really looked like him, anyway. There was a story that James had an adopted sister... her biological parents died,, and his mom took her in." Christina's expression Softened. "That's so sad." Rowan smiled, changing the subject. "Anyway, let's focus on our journey instead."

As the train of Hogwart Express pulled away from the station, the children bid their final goodbyes to their parents, and Christina embarked on a new chapter in her life.

"Christina, Mommy loves you so much... I'm sorry I can't watch you grow up... I love you," a woman's voice whispered in the darkness, muffled as if from underwater.

"Christina... I love you, my dearest daughter," another woman's voice echoed, different from the first. "Christina...?" Someone gently tapped her shoulder. "Christina!"

She jolted awake, her vision blurry. Rowan's smiling face came into focus. "Wake up, sleepyhead! We're here! Let's get our things."

Christina stood, stretching, and followed Rowan out of the train. As they disembarked, a booming voice called out, "Watch yourselves, kiddos! Don't bump your head all the way!"

Hagrid, the gamekeeper, stood tall, his lamp casting a warm glow. He handed a lost notebook to a student, saying, "Hey kid, you lost something?" Christina struggled with her bags, and Rowan asked, "Why do you have so many things?" "Georgia packed extra stuff," Christina huffed. Hagrid intervened, taking one of her bags. "Whoa, kid! You need a helping hand."

As they walked, Christina asked about their location. Maria, Rowan's sister, explained, "We're in Hogsmeade Station, a village near Hogwarts. We'll take a boat across the lake to the castle." At the lake, Hagrid guided them into boats. "Alright, kiddos! Slow and easy does it. Watch your steps." The boat swayed as Christina and Rowan settled in. Hagrid reassured her, "Don't worry about your stuff, kiddo. It'll be transferred to your house."

As they glided across the lake, fog enveloped them. Rowan clarmored Christina's arm, whispering, "Gosh, what if something's beneath the water?" Christina tried to hide her smile while Hagrid was with them, comforting presence as he led the first-years through the mist. Suddenly, the fog lifted, revealing... "Wow..." Rowan gasped.

Hagrid beamed as he said "Welcome to Hogwart, first years!" The massive stone structure towered above, its spires and turrets reaching for the sky. Christina's eyes widened as she took in the majestic sight, her heart racing with excitement. This was it – she was really here, at Hogwarts!

To be Continued...

Christina and the other first-years made their way down to the boat, walking slowly as they reached the school. "Follow me, everyone, they're waiting for you," Hagrid said, stepping inside the castle, and the group followed. As they entered, they were greeted by a grand entrance with sweeping stone steps leading up to the main door. The castle's stunning view of the Scottish Highlands took their breath away. Rowan's eyes widened in amazement, her jaw dropping as she gazed up at the castle windows.

Christina was equally impressed, her gaze drifting to the grand staircases and corridors lined with portraits of former headmasters. Hagrid led the way, pointing to the staircase. "Alright, kiddos, just head up these stairs and you'll be in the main door, inside is the grand hall of students like you are waiting to see the first years. Professor McGonagall's waiting for you," he said with a warm smile.

Without hesitation, Christina and Rowan took the lead, the others following closely behind. As they climbed the stairs, they saw a massive door looming ahead, Christina and the other first-year students stood outside the dining room, where their future classmates eagerly awaited them. The door swung open, and a middle-aged woman emerged, her hands clasped together.

She walked with elegance, her eyes fixed on the newcomers. "Welcome to Hogwarts, my dear first-year students," she said. "In a few moments, you'll join your classmates inside. Before you do, let me introduce myself. I'm Minerva McGonagall, Head of Gryffindor House, Transfiguration professor, and Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts. I'm delighted to welcome you to our academy, and I look forward to having you as my students. Good luck, first years!" As she finished speaking, the doors opened wide, and she turned to lead the way. A loud trumpet fanfare filled the air, accompanied by applause and cheers as the students rose from their seats.

"Welcome, first years!" And "Welcome to the academy!" echoed through the room. Professor McGonagall walked slowly inside, followed by the first-year students, who felt a warm sense of belonging wash over them as they smiled at the welcoming faces of their new classmates. The room fell silent as a man stood up and smiled at the first-years. "My dear first-years, I'm delighted to welcome you to Hogwarts and witness your journey throughout the years!" The crowd erupted into applause, and he continued, "I am Albus Dumbledore, your headmaster. I have an important announcement. First-years, please note that entering the Dark Forest is strictly forbidden."

He paused, his eyes twirling with seriousness. "One student has already broken this rule, and we'll be keeping a close eye on all of you, especially at night." Rowan leaned in, whispering, "I think he's talking about James. He went into the forest before he disappeared."

Christina leaned in too, her eyes fixed on Professor Dumbledore. "That's the rule he broke? I thought it was something serious. Why is the Dark Forest off-limits?" Rowan shrugged, but then her mother's words came back to her. "I don't know much about the Dark Forest, but Mum said it's forbidden because once you're in, you'll be lost with no way out." Christina's gaze was fixed on Dumbledore until she caught a man staring at her. When their eyes met, a sudden, intense pain shot through her head. She clenched her teeth, clutching her temples as a throbbing sensation pulsed through her skull.

"Ah... aw!" she whispered, her eyes squeezing shut. The pain was overwhelming, drowning out Dumbledore's words. She opened her eyes to see the man, his gaunt face and piercing black eyes searing into her. His sallow skin and hooked nose seemed to twist in her vision, making her stomach churn. She didn't notice that Professor Dumbledore already finish his speech and now Professor McGonagall was now talking with a scroll on her hand. "Now, once I call your names. Please step forward, and when you do, take a seat and a sorting hat will determine which house you will belong."

Christina struggled to stay upright, fighting the urge to faint. She tried to shake off the pain, but it only intensified. Suddenly, memories flashed before her eyes – a woman's blurry face, a voice whispering apologies... "Oh, Christina, dearest daughter of mine... I'm sorry..."

The images vanished as quickly as they appeared, leaving Christina disoriented. Who was that? "Christina Smith!" Christina didn't even hear her name was called. A gentle hand on her shoulder brought her back to reality. "Christina, your name is call. Professor McGonagall called you." Rowan whispers and nudging her forward. Christina's headache had disappeared, and she walked forward with a mix of anxiety and determination. As she approached, whispers spread among the students, mentioning her surname and speculating about her relation to James Smith, a boy who had broken rules and run away.

"Smith? I'm not mistaken right? Smith is her surname? Is she related to James Smith? The boy who run away after breaking the rules?"

"I hope she's not sort to our house, it will only bring shame to the Slytherin house!"

"She doesn't look like him, maybe just same surname?"

"How dare she come here, she will only cause trouble like her brother!"

The whispers were filled with doubt and concern, with some students hoping she wouldn't be sorted into Slytherin house. Professor Dumbledore cleared his throat, silencing the whispers, and Professor McGonagall invited Christina to sit down. The sorting hat was placed on her head, then it spoke "Ah another Smith, Do you know that your brother once a Gryffindor too."

"I don't know, but if he was my brother, I'll never be like him. And I will also go to find him too." Christina said, her thoughts were running,, and the sorting house asked, "find him? What if he was kidnapped by a dangerous witch or wizard that is powerful and threaten you? Will you go after him?" and Christina response with resolute, "I'm not afraid of them, if he was in danger I will risk my life for him. He's my brother, I'm not leaving him alone." The sorting hat pondered, "Hmm... where should I put you, then?"

Christina closed her eyes, remembering a student who hated her, and whispered, "Anything but Slytherin. Not Slytherin, don't put me to the Slytherin house..." The sorting hat heard her, "Not Slytherin, eh? But you will gain determination in their house. Such high potential for success!" Christina shook her head, "No, no, not Slytherin." The sorting hat suggested, "What about Ravenclaw?"

Christina hesitated, "Ravenclaw is okay... I guess?" The room fell silent, awaiting the sorting hat's decision. "Then let it be... Gryffindor!!" and last the sorting house loudly announced the new student from Gryffindor.

The Slytherin students sighed in relief, while the Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff students clapped, and some Gryffindors cheered happily. Christina exhaled in relief and joined the Gryffindor table, where a young man welcomed her with a tap on the shoulder. "Welcome to Gryffindor!" "Thank you" Christina replied with a faint smile

"Rowan North." now, it was Rowan's turn to feel nervous, the whole school from Hogwarts knows that most of the family from North and Weasley are sorted to Gryffindor house, and this keep be going from their generations to generations. As Rowan took her turn to sat down to the chair. As soon Professor McGonagall place the hat on her head, the sorting hat declared, "Aha! Another North, just like the Weasley! I know where to put you... Gryffindor!" Rowan sign and smile in relieved while Christina and everyone was cheering and clapping.

Rowan left the chair and walk to the table of Gryffindor, and she sat down beside to Christina with a wide smile "Gosh, it's a good thing that we're in same house." Rowan said while sigh in relief and Christina can't help but also smile "me too I feel more comfortable even though we only knew each other for a while." Christina said feeling a sense of comfort. Roxanne Willow, a blonde girl with hazel eyes, smiled as she sat down, and the sorting hat declared, "Hufflepuff!" The Hufflepuff table erupted in cheers and applause as she joined her new housemates.

Next, Luke Black, a boy with dark hair and blue eyes, stepped forward. He hesitated, stopping just short of sitting down, and the sorting hat announced, "Ravenclaw!" without even being placed on his head. The Ravenclaw table cheered, and Luke took his seat. Rowan turned to Christina, whispering, "That's weird. He didn't even sit down, and the hat wasn't on his head yet." Christina replied, "I noticed. He looked at the sorting hat like he cast a spell or something. Something's off."

As the last first-year was sorted, Professor Dumbledore rose from his chair, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Let the celebration begin! A feast for everyone!" With a snap of his fingers, the tables were laden with food. Everyone was surprised and amazed, the room erupted in a chorus of oohs and aahs as students gazed at the spread before them. Even Rowan and Christina exchanged wide-eyed glances, then eagerly began selecting their meals.

"Is this real?" Rowan breathed, her eyes locked on a succulent roasted chicken. "My favorite!" She took a bite, closing her eyes in rapture. "And it's delicious!"

Christina nodded vigorously, mouth full of cake. "Magic, maybe? Everything's amazing!" Her gaze roved the table, landing on a beef steak, which she promptly claimed. Just as Rowan reached for the chicken nuggets, a loud "BOOOOOO!" shattered the air. Christina and the others jumped, startled, while Rowan leapt from her seat, shrieking and scream loudly. A ghost materialized beside the food, chuckling heartily as he floated upwards. "Welcome, first-years!" he called out, beaming.

The other ghosts appeared, flying around the tables, greeting the new students. A kindly ghost floated above the Hufflepuff table, radiating warmth welcome "Ah, another first years! Is delighted to see more Hufflepuff!" he said with a warm smile as he looked to each of first years and also other Hufflepuff students, Meanwhile, a ghost of a woman swooped across the tables of Ravenclaw, "My darlings. A new Ravenclaw has been born. I am so happy to see you all, welcome to Hogwarts, first years!" the woman smile kindly to them, another ghost appeared follow by a sharp laugh with a swift of his sword. The ghost appeared on the table of Slytherin "Hey, it's Bloody Baron!" one of the Slytherin student said.

Rowan settled back into her seat, still looking shaken. Christina chuckled, teasing her, "Aww, calm down, Rowan. He just said hi. With a jump scare." Rowan glared at her friend. "Shut it, Christina! That was bloody scary! I thought both of my soul and heart left my body! I think I'll be forever traumatized!" Rowan response. Christina nodded towards the ghosts, now flying around the tables. "Hey, John. Who are they?" John, a fourth-year student, smiled knowingly. "They're the Hogwarts house ghosts."

He pointed them out one by one. "That's Nearly Headless Nick, the Gryffindor ghost. He's a bit goofy. He's also known as Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington" His gaze followed the elegant ghost floating above the Ravenclaws. "That's The Grey Lady, also known as Helena Ravenclaw, daughter of Rowena Ravenclaw, one of the Hogwart founders. Helena is one of the ghost from Ravenclaw house in Hogwarts."

Next, he nodded towards the intimidating figure with a sword. "That's The Bloody Baron, Slytherin's ghost. He's a bit intimidating and has a tragic backstory. He got a tragic backstory, even Nearly Headless Nick is afraid of him." Finally, he smiled at the jovial ghost beaming over the Hufflepuffs. "And that's The Fat Friar, Hufflepuff's ghost. He's as friendly as the Hufflepuff students. He is very gentle and kind man that even most student of Hogwarts take after him."

"Holy mother of grills! You're Christina Smith, James' baby sister!" Nick swooped in, and Christina looked up with a warm smile. "You don't look like him, but you've got the same vibe. James told me a lot about you."

Nick smiled with a wink. "So, what's my brother look like? Is he really that rebellious like everyone say he is?"

He paused, thinking it over. "Honestly, James was a good guy - kind, funny, always up for an adventure. damn that kid had high potential. But yeah, he was reckless and stubborn. I can't picture him going dark, though. I think he was possessed!"

"Possessed?"

"Yeah. James wouldn't just jump into dark magic. Something was off. He's a good kid at heart." Nick left, and Rowan, who'd been watching, turned to me. "Think your bro wasn't himself?" I shrugged and sipped my drink.

After the celebration, John led the first-years to Gryffindor House while the older students stayed behind. Each house has a leader and a prefect in charge, and John was Gryffindor's deputy leader. "This way, first-years, follow me," he said. Rowan and Christina noticed first-years from other houses heading to their respective houses. "Oh, and watch out for the stairs – they like to shift," John added just in time. The stairs suddenly changed direction, but Rowan, Christina, and the others managed to step off safely before it did.

Everyone treaded carefully, eyeing the moving portraits lining the walls. Some couldn't help but gawk. "Christina, look! The portraits are moving – and they can talk!" Rowan exclaimed. Christina's eyes widened as she spotted a woman with a baby, who smiled and said, "Welcome to Hogwarts, first-years." Christina smiled back as they passed. Soon they reached the hallway, with John leading the way. The Gryffindor house was located in the northeast part of the castle, which is a common room that situated in Gryffindor Tower.

John stopped at a big portrait of a lady in a pink dress. "Password?" she asked. John answered without hesitation, "Iacobus." The portrait nodded and swung open. Rowan nudged Christina, whispering, "Wow, the password is 'James' – your brother's name."

"I told you he's not my brother," Christina replied.

"But what if he was? You never know," Rowan teased, leaving Christina lost in thought. But what if Rowan is right? I keep saying he is not my brother,, yet I pretend that he was. But what if my pretending was real? As the first-years entered Gryffindor House, they were awestruck by the cozy common room.

The Gryffindor house was supper cozy instead, inside Christina and the first-years find a comfy armchairs and sofas group around a crackling fireplace, perfect for cozy night. The walls are adorned with Gryffindor banners, old portraits, and shields. There's also a notice board for Gryffindor announcements. The atmosphere's lively, friendly, and feels like home. "Boys are on the left, girls on the right," John said, gesturing. "Your stuff's already in your rooms, next to your beds and chests." Everyone rushed off. "Thanks, John!" John smiled at Christina and nodded. Rowan grabbed her hand, pulling her into the girls' room.

Rowan and Christina were checking their stuff, and everything was good to go. Christina was amazed how all her bags fit into one chest – uniforms were in the other. "Wow..." she whispered, touching her uniform.

"I can't believe we're really here!" Rowan squealed in excitement, bouncing on her bed. Christina smiled, plumping into her own comfy bed, chuckling as she sank in.

Everyone was fast asleep that night when Christina suddenly jolted awake. Christina. Christina. A soft whisper echoed, its source a mystery. Christina drifted toward her bed, shawl draped over her shoulder, nightdress flowing to her ankles. Leaving the living room, she spotted Rowan curled up on the sofa by the fireplace. "Rowan?" Christina called her name softly and Rowan looked up, smiling. "Christina? Can't sleep?" Christina nodded, joining her.

The fireplace crackled softly, the only sound as Christina and Rowan huddled closer, warming themselves. "Someone's whispering in my ear... sometimes it's in my head," Christina said. Rowan hugged her knees tighter. "Who is it?" Christina shook her head. "I don't know. It's weird. Someone's in my head for some reason." Rowan piped up, "Maybe it's your memory? Maybe that's why you're hearing whispers. Or hearing stuff."

Christina's voice was a soft whisper, like a story unfolding. "Maybe... I've been seeing flashes recently. Back in the dining hall, I saw something." Christina stops before she continues, "I saw a vivid image – a woman, face hidden. And on the train, I saw two women crying, calling my name... saying goodbye... to me." Rowan listened intently, firelight dancing on their faces. "Maybe its a buried memory, Christina," Rowan said suddenly and added, "You need to restore it." "But... how?" Christina asked. Rowan shrugged. "Dunno. Maybe a powerful sorcerer or sorceress can do it with some fancy magic."

Christina only sighs, If I can't find a sorcerer or sorceress to restore my memories then it's much better if I'll do it on my own or let my memories restore It's own. They sat in silence for a while until Christina playfully smiled at Rowan. "Rowan? Why are you still awake?" The young sorceress smiled back. "It's my habit. I always wake up at night, probably because of my powers. Sometimes they kick in and I'm up." "That explains it," Christina said, putting her arm on the sofa and leaning back, one leg tucked under her. "Does it happen every night?"

Rowan nodded. "Every night. That's why Mom gives me a vial – some potion to help me sleep peacefully without my powers messing with me."

"A vial?" Christina echoed.

"Yeah, it helps me sleep," Rowan said.

The room fell silent again.

"Christmas is coming," Christina said cautiously. "I wonder if the school will have a Christmas celebration." Rowan smiled softly. "They do. My sister told me about last year's – it was fun." Just then, the door to the boys' room opened, and John came out, surprised to see the girls on the sofa. "Why are you still awake?" "We can't sleep, so we're talking here by the fireplace, keeping warm," Rowan said softly.

John gave her a serious look. "Girls, you need to wake up early tomorrow. You can't be late on your first day," he said firmly but softly. "Okay, we understand. Rowan, let's go," Christina said. Rowan and Christina went back to the girls' bedroom and lay back down in their beds.

The next morning, Rowan and Christina woke up so late that they ran through the empty hallways. Their first class was with Professor McGonagall. When they entered the room quietly, a few students looked back at them before focusing on writing their papers. They didn't see Professor McGonagall anywhere, only a cat.

Christina and Rowan took their seats. "It's a good thing Professor McGonagall isn't here yet, or we'd have been scolded," Christina whispered as she took out her ink and pen.

"Exactly. Imagine her beautiful face scolding us. Professor McGonagall is an excellent teacher and also our head of Gryffindor House. We can't disappoint her," Rowan said as she started to write. Rowan and Christina looked at the cat. "Aw, cute cat," Rowan said. The cat jumped off the table and suddenly transformed into a woman. It was Professor McGonagall. Rowan dropped her pen, and Christina's jaw dropped as they realized who was standing in front of them.

Professor McGonagall walked towards them. "Surprised? Perhaps both of you should start using an alarm clock, so you can wake up early in the morning. And oh, I thank you for the compliment, Ms. North. Now go back to writing," she said, leaving them alone. "What was that??" Rowan was still speechless. "Professor McGonagall turned herself into a cat... and she heard our conversation..." Christina's eyes were wide. "I know, right?"

Their next class was with Professor Snape. The room was dark, with an eerie atmosphere. He was silent, his gaze sweeping across the room. "Ms. Smith, tell me. When a potion heals someone from a serious injury, then what is life potion for?" he asked in an icy, cold tone. Everyone looked at Christina. "Life? Life potion?" He was silent, waiting for her to answer.

"There is no life potion... but... but if someone made a life potion, perhaps it would bring the dead back to life..." she replied nervously. "When dry weeds are mixed with tears from a goblin, what will it form?" This time, she was silent because she didn't know the answer. "When the dry weeds are mixed with goblin tears, they form a unique herb that attracts everyone, but it's poisonous when touched..." he explained coldly. "Take it all down. Why is no one writing?" Everyone immediately took out their notes.

"This morning, we'll be making our first potion – the Healing Potion," Professor Snape announced. "This vial is drinkable; one sip can healed someone and restore lost health or stamina. Listen carefully..." He explained the potion and its brewing process. Rowan and I gathered the ingredients and got ready to start.

"Now we need 1 wormwood, 3 Bubotuber Pus, 2 Dittany, and 1 dragon liver," Rowan read from the list, while I added the ingredients to the cauldron. We followed the instructions precisely. And after a few hours it's finally done, "It's done! I brewed my first potion!" I cheered.

But something went wrong. "Tina? Did you add something to the cauldron?" Rowan asked, and I shook my head. "No, I followed the instructions!" The cauldron exploded, and everyone stared at me. Some of my classmates, including Rowan, got splashed.

"Oh no!" Rowan exclaimed. "What's going on?" Professor Snape approached us, his eyes narrowing. "I... I don't know what happened. I followed the instructions exactly!" My voice trembled as he gave me a piercing stare.

"You not only inherited your brother's...inadequacies, but you've also destroyed one of my cauldrons," he sneered. "You should never have been allowed in my classroom. You're even worse than your brother." I looked down, feeling crushed. Professor Snape added, "Ten points will be taken from Gryffindor," before walking away. Rowan and I gasped, eyes wide in horror.

That's when I spotted someone smirking, trying to stifle a laugh. "Oh no, how will you repay for breaking Professor Snape's cauldron?" the girl said mockingly.

"It's you...." Rowan hissed at her, about to storm over to her table, but Christina stopped her. "You got our house docked points, Christina. You're so reckless," the girl said, smirking. She was from the same house as Christina. "You sabotaged our cauldron, didn't you?" Christina asked, glaring.

"Let's see... did I?" The girl's wicked smile widened. "You have a problem with that?" Rowan had had enough and looked like she wanted to throw something, but Christina stopped her. The girls laughed and left them alone.

Rowan stormed out of the classroom with Christina, still fury. "I can't believe that scheming girl sabotaged our cauldron! She ruined our first task and got our house docked ten points! And she's in our house? Argh!" Rowan was frustrated, while Christina stayed silent. Rowan noticed a small cut on Christina's face and hand. "Look at that – you're injured too. Come on, let's get you to the infirmary."

Christina and Rowan are in the wing clinic, a nurse carefully put some ointment and gently treat her small cuts. "your injury will be heal for three days, do not worry. it won't leave a scar." the nurse said before leaving them alone. "The scheming girl did this for sure. She add something on our cauldron." Rowan still frustrated, and she looked to a young girl. "Hey, that is Amanda Stuart." Rowan said and Christina look at her. "Who is she?" "She's Amanda Stuart, she is the last person with James before he disappeared. I can't believe she was here." Rowan replied and Christina slide down from the bed, Rowan stop her, "What are you doing?" "I'll ask few questions about her, she might know something about James." I said and went to Amanda.

The moment when I get close to her, Amanda looked at me. "Christina Smith?" her raspy and hoarse voice calls me, "Yes, it's me." Amanda wear her weird smile, "You don't look like your brother. But I can see you have similarities of him." I sat on the edge of her bed. "Do you know all about J-....my brother?" Amanda looked at her "James, ah of course. The most brave, loyal, courage, and reckless. Truly a Gryffindor student." Amanda smile sadly. Christina held the hand of Amanda, "Please you have to tell me everything you know. I need answers from my brother's sudden missing. You have no idea how much desperate I am to see him again, my mother also went missing, she was suddenly disappeared like my brother. I don't know if they're alive or die... please, help me." The young girl looked at Amanda. she was determined to look for James, but first she needed his story.

"Christina, Amanda won't speak up anything that relates to your brother. Maybe should talk about it later?" Rowan said softly "I understand you wanted answers from your brother. But now is not the right time especially Amanda needs recovery and you as well." Rowan added as she pats my shoulder in sympathy and to comfort me as she helped me pull away from her gently. "You do similiar to James. Both have Gryffindor traits." She said in nonchalant way, Rowan and I look at her. "You know my brother. You were with him. What happened...? Where is James?" Amanda is now looking away from me staring at the window. "James....he was a good and kind boy. He was the only friend I ever had. something happened when your brother and I reach into fourth year, he started to act suspiciously. He told me he hears someone whispering into his ears, he keep seeing a strange dream...."

To Be Continue...