It Begins

October 31, 1992 2:00 PM, Great Hall, Hogwarts

Adam Clarke

The tournament officially begins today.

The Great Hall was alive with anticipation.

Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, casting warm beams onto the long wooden tables, adorned with colorful banners representing each of the participating schools. The room buzzed with excited chatter.

Beside me, Harry fidgeted nervously in his seat.

It wasn’t just him; the entire hall seemed to be filled with a nervous energy. The competitors from each school sat together, their faces a mix of excitement and anxiety. I couldn’t help but feel a similar blend of emotions myself, and yet I forced myself to keep a straight face.

Now was the worst time to show any kind of weakness.

The grandeur of the occasion was evident in every corner of the hall, transformed into a mesmerizing tapestry of enchantment.

Each long wooden table, stretching across the room, was adorned with a unique and intricate tablecloth that represented the colors and symbols of one of the nine participating schools. Beauxbatons’ table was draped in a shimmering powder blue cloth with delicate silver fleur-de-lis motifs, while Durmstrang’s featured deep red fabric adorned with striking golden stars.

Mahoutokoro’s table was a sight to behold, covered in rich indigo silk embroidered with silver cranes in flight. Castelobruxo’s table boasted vibrant rainforest-green textiles embellished with colorful parrot patterns, and Ilvermorny’s table was an explosion of deep blue and cranberry, reminiscent of its North American roots.

The Uagadou table was an exquisite display of earthy brown cloth, adorned with golden tribal symbols. Ayn Sehr, for its part, covered its table with a long golden canvas, covered in hieroglyphs which almost seemed etched into the fabric. Longling, oddly enough, decided not to partake in any of the decorative festivities.

As I gazed around at the diverse group of students, I couldn’t help but feel my blood pump. It was a rare opportunity to witness the skills and abilities of witches and wizards from different corners of the Wizarding World.

I leaned closer to Harry and offered a reassuring smile, trying to ease his nerves. “Don’t worry, Harry. You’ll do great.”

“Just remember.” Hermione said. “It’s not about winning, but about the chance to represent Hogwarts!”

“I don’t know.” Ron said in between bites. “I think it’s more about winning, if you ask me.”

“Not helping!”

“All right, all right.” Ron rolled his eyes as he sent his best friend a look. “You’ve trained fairly hard for this. I should know— I devised some of that training, myself. You’ll do great!”

Harry nodded, his green eyes reflecting a mixture of determination and uncertainty. It seemed he knew that this tournament could bring unexpected challenges and dangers, but his nerves were not letting him acknowledge his own competence to compensate.

The tension in the air grew as the ceremony was about to begin.

The headmasters and headmistresses of the participating schools took their places at the head table. With bated breath, we awaited the opening words that would mark the beginning of this extraordinary event.

At the head table, Albus Dumbledore stood, ready to give his speech. To his left and right were the other headmasters and headmistresses from the League of Nine schools: Igor Karkaroff of Durmstrang, Olympe Maxime of Beauxbatons, Omar Hajjar of Ayn Sehr, Aya Sasaki of Mahoutokoro, William Steward of Ilvermorny, Si Yuan of Longling, Claudia Maia of Castelobruxo, and Mwezi Isaka of Uagadou.

Dumbledore began, his warm voice carrying throughout the hall. “Welcome, students and esteemed colleagues, to this extraordinary gathering of magical schools. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of magical education. We come together as the League of Nine.”

Headmaster Karkaroff, with a stern visage, spoke next. “It is an honor to stand here among such esteemed colleagues. May our students find strength in unity.”

“Our traditions are diverse, but our goals are aligned: to foster a future where magic brings us together.” Madame Maxime added in, her French accent lending charm to her words.

Headmaster Hajjar nodded at that. “We extend our hands in friendship and knowledge. May this League inspire harmony among our cultures.”

Aya Sasaki, ever serene, gave a light smile. “Through shared wisdom, we can learn to harness the magic that connects us all.”

“We embrace this opportunity for collaboration and growth. Our students will be enriched by this experience.” William Steward of Ilvermorny chimed in.

Si Yuan, with a knowing smile, tilted his head slightly as he added his own piece. “Let us discover the strength in our unity.”

Claudia Maia of Castelobruxo spoke warmly. “Together, we write a new chapter in the history of magical education. May it be one of peace and understanding.”

Mwezi Isaka of Uagadou, with his enigmatic presence, concluded. “With knowledge as our guide, we embark on this journey to unite the magical world.”

Together, as one, the heads of the schools shared meaningful looks with each other before turning their attention to the assembled students. In unison, they offered a heartfelt message. “May fortune favor you all.”

The air was charged with excitement, and Dumbledore took the lead once more.

“Now, if you’ll kindly follow Professor McGonagall to the Quidditch Pitch, we will begin.” Dumbledore gestured towards Professor McGonagall, who was accompanied by Snape and several other teachers from different schools.

“This way, everyone.”

As the students began to follow Professor McGonagall, I exchanged a quick, encouraging nod with Harry and gave him a friendly pat on the shoulder.

“Good luck.” I said with a reassuring smile.

Harry returned the sentiment. “You too, Adam.”

I then made my way over to Su and Tony, who were also brimming with anticipation.

“Feeling ready, Adam?” Su sidled beside me as we exited the castle proper and made our way past the gardens.

“I think so.”

“You see that, Su?” Tony said with a smirk, nudging me in the ribs. “He ‘thinks so’. As if he wouldn’t just trounce them all with his hands tied behind his back.”

I chuckled at Tony’s playful jab and shrugged. “Well, I wouldn’t say it’s that simple, but I’ll do my best.”

“That’s the spirit, Adam.” Su said, grinning.

“Well, in that case, I hope they use you as their punching bag.” Tony said, his smirk widening.

“Tony!” Su said, mock-scandalized.

“What?”

“Thanks for the good wishes, mate.” I said, slapping him on the back of the neck none-too-gently.

“What was that for!?”

“Just felt like it.”

“I’ll get you back for that.”

“Bring it.”

“Boys.” Su huffed and glared at the both of us before focusing her attention on me. “If you’re going to be like that, Adam, I… I won’t cheer for you!”

“…Such cruelty.” I pretended to mope.

“How can evil so profound exist?” Tony let out an over-the-top gasp.

Su only shook her head, exasperated with our antics at this point, and yet she was smiling.

“But on a serious note.” I said, knowing not to push my luck, lest I get a slap to the face. “I’ll do my best, I promise.”

“Look!” One of the students ahead said, and excitement coursed through the crowd as we arrived at the changed Quidditch Pitch.

The scene that greeted us was nothing short of spectacular. The area around the pitch was bustling with activity. Stalls and shops lined the edges, offering a wide variety of confectioneries, souvenirs, and magical merchandise. Families from all over the world had gathered to support their young champions, their faces painted with excitement and pride.

Aurors were scattered throughout the crowd, doing their best to maintain order and ensure the safety of everyone present. Some of them were patrolling on the ground, while others soared overhead on broomsticks, providing overwatch.

I couldn’t help but be swept up in the excitement of it all as I looked around at the colorful banners and excited spectators. This was going to be an unforgettable experience.

“Still feel ready?” Su’s soft voice came from my side again.

“Strangely enough.” I said, smiling. “I’m excited.”

“Good!” Tony said, patting me on the shoulder. “Get out there and kick some butt!”

“Planning on it.” I laughed and started searching for any of the coordinators to see how exactly I was supposed to go about this. “See anyone?”

“Um…” Tony and Su muttered as they, too, looked around.

Tony shook his head. “I can’t tell, there are too many adults, so I can’t see anything.”

“Me neither.” Su added in. “Sorry.”

“Don’t worry about it.” I said, shrugging. “I’ll just—”

“Adam!” A familiar male voice came from the side. “Remus; over here.”

“Sirius!” I called out, turning to face the man.

My eyes widened.

Sirius now looked every bit the troublemaker he had been known to be in his youth. His handsome face bore a mischievous grin, and his gray eyes sparkled with a sense of adventure. He was dressed casually, in dark jeans and a dragonhide jacket, giving him a rebellious aura.

Remus, in contrast, had a more reserved and scholarly appearance. His sandy-brown hair was neatly combed, and he wore a tweed jacket over a button-down shirt and slacks. His warm, amber eyes held a gentle expression, another contrast to Sirius’s exuberance.

Beside him stood Harry, who was just as stupefied at the man’s appearance.

“You, uh…” I said dumbly, making the man grin.

“Been a while, huh, kid?” Sirius said and ruffled my hair.

“Nice getup.” I finally said, pushing his hand away as Harry moved to stand beside me. “Where can I get something like that?”

“Looking to woo a few ladies, Adam?” Someone said from behind me, and I stopped what I was about to say, turning to address the newcomer.

It was Amy Broduk, and she was looking even more fashionable than Sirius. She wore a thigh-length skirt paired with knee-high boots. Over her top, she had a well-fitted tan coat, completing the ensemble with a touch of sophistication.

Her hazel eyes sparkled with warmth and amusement at my reaction. Her silky brown hair fell neatly to her shoulders, and her posture exuded confidence and grace.

Harry looked between Amy and Sirius a few times before his gaze turned to me, his eyes wide.

I decided to give his thoughts— and my own— life. “Are you two here… together?”

“Told you he’s quick on the uptake.” Sirius said.

“Didn’t need to tell me, Sirius.” Amy gave a rich laugh as she moved towards the man, standing beside him. “I’ve known Adam for quite some time now. Isn’t that right, Adam?”

I opened my mouth to say something before closing it, and nodding.

“How long?” Harry blurted out.

“Well, Harry.” Sirius said. “As I understand it, Amy’s known Adam since even before I—”

“No! Not that!” Harry exclaimed, pointing at both of them. “This!”

Sirius chuckled at Harry’s comment. “It’s been a while now; a few weeks?”

“It was quite a pleasant surprise.” Amy added with a smile. “Your Godfather is quite the charmer, Harry.”

Sirius winked playfully at us, before putting his arm over the woman’s shoulder, making her smile widely. I rolled my eyes, but it was hard to hide the amusement on my face.

“Hello Mr— I mean Sirius.” Su piped up from behind me. Tony said nothing, instead just waving at everyone.

“Hey, kids.” Sirius smiled and engaged them in conversation as Remus moved me to the side.

“I hope you and Harry have been keeping well.” Remus said by way of greeting.

“It’s been hectic.” I said. “But we’re making sure to not overdo it. At least, I think we are.”

“I suppose that’s better than nothing.” Remus chuckled, shaking his head in remembrance. “We were much the same at your age, putting everything into our endeavors.”

“It’s hard not to.” I admitted. “With everything that’s been happening, it feels like we need to be on our toes all the time. But I think we found a good balance, lately.”

Remus nodded in understanding. “Balance is crucial, Adam. It’s good that you’re aware of it. Just remember, there’s more to life than constant vigilance.”

“Constant vigilance, huh?” I said, tilting my head. “I heard someone else use those words.”

“Mad-Eye?” Remus said and I nodded.

“Yes, Alastor Moody is fond of his little catch phrase.” Remus confirmed. “He had a penchant for emphasizing the importance of his brand of vigilance, and he had his reasons.”

“Paranoia.”

“That’s part of it, yes.” Remus nodded in agreement. “But then, he lived through what many would say were the worst parts of an already terrible, dark time, so it’s understandable— even justifiable to a point. What’s important, however, is that you should not let it consume your life.”

Otherwise you’re not living, but merely existing. I thought and was about to say something further when Remus let out a chuckle.

“Ah, but what am I doing?” Remus shook his head with a smile. “I’m supposed to be cheering you on for your match, not trying to dishearten you with lessons from a bygone age.”

As he shifted the conversation back to the upcoming match, I smiled and nodded. “You’re right, Remus. You’re pretty old.”

“I hope your preparations for the tournament are more impressive than your jokes, because I fear for your chances, Adam.”

“…” I stared at him for a moment before looking away. “Touché.”

“Attention, participants and spectators!” A booming voice called out over the din, and we all turned to face the center of the Quidditch Pitch. “The League of Nine Tournament is about to begin. Please make your way to the center of the pitch for the opening ceremony.”

“Looks like that’s me.” I said.

“Come on.” Sirius said to Harry and the others. “I got us some pretty good seats. And, Adam?”

I met Sirius’ gaze.

“Good luck.”

I smiled, even as everyone mirrored the man’s sentiment. “Thank you.”

I gave a nod to everyone there before breaking off and making my way to the center of the pitch, where the other contestants were also gathering. As I walked, I could hear the cheers and excitement of the spectators filling the air.

Once I reached the center, I joined the rather sizable group, and I could feel the eyes of the crowd upon us. I took a deep breath, psyching myself up for the challenges which lay ahead.

The opening ceremony of the League of Nine Tournament was nothing short of extravagant. The Quidditch Pitch had been transformed into a dazzling display of magical lights and colors, with floating banners representing each participating school.

The afternoon sky lit up with magic, the horizon bursting into vibrant hues of oranges, purples, and pinks, casting a warm glow over the Quidditch Pitch. The sun’s rays danced across the field, creating a stunning backdrop for the festivities.

But then, the sky shifted dramatically. The colors faded away, and a deep, inky darkness began to spread from the horizon, as night seemed to swallow the day against the order of nature. It was a spell of grandeur and enchantment, a breathtaking display that left everyone in awe.

The gasps and whispers of the crowd filled the air as the magical transformation continued. Thousands of twinkling stars appeared, creating a celestial dome that covered the Quidditch Pitch. The constellations glittered like diamonds, and the moon bathed the field in its soft, silvery light.

“Who…” Someone in the crowd of students said.

“No clue.” “Impressive work.” “Way beyond me.”

“There can be no mistaking it.” One of the older girls said, a student of Mahoutokoro in resplendent robes of gold. She tucked her hair behind her ear and pointed towards the side, where we saw the Headmistress of Mahoutokoro, Aya Sasaki, stowing her wand into her sleeve, looking as serene as she always did.

The night sky above was illuminated with bursts of fireworks that exploded into various shapes and patterns, creating a breathtaking spectacle, but my eyes were on the Headmistress, watching as she was joined by the other heads of school.

The platform they stood on floated up, rising to meet the crowd in the Quidditch Pitch’s stands. Joining them were many of the tournament organizers, including the lead, Coordinator Griffiths.

The woman weathered the applause with a wide grin.

“Ladies and gentlemen, wizards and witches, esteemed guests, and most importantly, our talented contestants from the League of Nine schools!” Griffiths said as she welcomed the crowd. “I, Wilda Griffiths, your lead tournament Coordinator, stand before you with immense pride and excitement!”

“Today, we gather here on these grounds to witness a truly extraordinary event— the beginning of the League of Nine. It is a celebration of magic, camaraderie, and the unbreakable bonds that unite us all across the magical world!”

Another cheer greeted the woman, and she continued.

“The Quidditch Pitch that you see before you is not just an ordinary field today. It is a battlefield of dreams, where students from different corners of the globe will showcase their incredible talents, their unyielding determination, and their unwavering spirit!

Durmstrang, Beauxbatons, Ayn Sehr, Mahoutokoro, Ilvermorny, Longling, Castelobruxo, Uagadou, and, of course, our beloved Hogwarts, have come together for the first time in history! The heart-pounding excitement, the breathtaking spells, the courageous displays of power— all of this and more awaits you in the coming days! Are you ready to witness the magic of the League of Nine?”

The crowd roared in response.

“That’s what I like to hear!” Griffiths said, her grin turning vicious. “We have a fantastic lineup of preliminary matches today, featuring our talented students in a dazzling display of skill, courage, and magical prowess! 

So, grab your seats, my friends, because you’re in for a treat! Cheer for your favorite schools, show your support for these remarkable young witches and wizards, and let the League of Nine Tournament… commence!”

Loud horns sounded out as she finished, the dark sky filling up with fireworks as the assembled crowds cheered as one.

The thunderous applause of the crowd washed over me like a wave, surging through my veins and igniting a fire within my chest. It was intoxicating. The excitement in the air was contagious, and I could feel it coursing through my very being.

As I watched the first few students being called to the platforms, which began to float up into the air, I found myself eagerly awaiting my own turn, my excitement barely contained.

And yet, I couldn’t help but reflect on my past self. In my previous life, I had always been non-confrontational, often willing to take a loss in order to keep the peace. But now, things were different. Something had awakened within me, a desire to test my abilities and prove myself.

Griffiths continued to announce the duels, her voice filled with passion and excitement. The cheers, gasps, and applause of the crowd drowned out my thoughts, and I couldn’t help but be swept up in the moment, once again.

The sight of students being thrown off the platforms and then safely caught and deposited onto the ground added to the spectacle.

Griffiths’ voice boomed through the stadium as she announced the outcome of the latest duel.

“And contestant Rammus gets thrown away! That last curse must have stung!” The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as the verdict was delivered. “And the winner is Mira Goshawk, advancing to the next stage!”

The platform carrying Mira descended to the floor with a light thud. She stepped off and approached me, wearing a challenging expression that couldn’t be ignored. I couldn’t help but meet her gaze with determination, fully aware that my own duel would be coming up soon.

“You’d better not lose, Clarke. You owe me a real match.”

Mira’s words hung in the air, a clear challenge and warning. I couldn’t help but smirk in response, my competitive spirit ignited. “You’ll be lucky if you last more than a minute, Goshawk.”

“A minute, is it?” A nasty smile crossed the young woman’s face. “We’ll see, Clarke.”

I watched her go for a moment before my name was called by one of the aides.

With a quick glance back at Mira, I turned my attention to the aide who had called my name.

I stepped onto the platform, taking in its large, round shape and the rough surface it was made of. I won’t be slipping off of this thing anytime soon.

As I settled into my position, I was joined by my opponent— a male Mahoutokoro student in striking silver robes. His shoulder-length hair framed his face, and his sharp, black eyes met mine with an intense focus.

I didn’t think this would be a particularly difficult duel. I’d done some research on the other schools in the time leading up to the tournament, and silver was the second highest level one could achieve in Mahoutokoro.

Still… I thought as we stared each other down. It would be remiss of me to underestimate him.

“Next up, we have a thrilling match between two outstanding young wizards!” Griffiths announced, her voice carrying across the pitch. “From Hogwarts, we have Adam Black, the youngest entry into the older category, and from Mahoutokoro, we have Hien Retsu, a formidable young man in his own right!”

The platform beneath my feet began to move, gradually rising into the air. The cheers of the crowd swelled, and I turned my attention to my opponent. There was an air of confidence about him, I noted.

Hien bowed and then grinned at me, his eyes gleaming with excitement. “This should be interesting. Let us see what the Rising Star of Hogwarts is capable of.”

I nodded with a polite smile, keeping my excitement at bay for the moment. “Yes, it should be an good match. Good luck to you.”

As the platform reached its zenith and Griffiths’ voice continued to fill the air, I steadied myself, wand at the ready. It was time to show what I was made of.

“Begin!”

As Griffiths’ voice called out, Hien and I both sprang into action. I raised my wand, focusing on the duel ahead, while Hien did the same. We circled each other, our eyes locked in a tense standoff.

Hien was the first to make a move.

He flicked his wand gracefully and cast a Stinging Hex my way. I reacted quickly, deflecting the spell and countering with a Disarming Charm. Hien, however, was prepared and swiftly sidestepped it.

The duel continued, with spells flying back and forth between us as we tried to feel each other out. I quickly realized that this boy’s movements were precise, and his spells were well-executed, a cut above the rest. 

Hien’s aura shifted and grew more tight, and I immediately knew that the fight was going to take a turn. With a single incantation, he conjured a pack of ethereal wolves that began to circle me, growling all the while. They had ghostly, translucent forms, but their fangs gleamed with a menacing, yellow light.

The wolves pounced toward me, and I had to act quickly. With a series of well-aimed Banishing Charms, I tried to knock the spectral beasts off of the ring before they could reach me. Some landed, sending the affected wolves flying, but the remaining three continued their relentless charge, forcing me to shield myself.

I evoked the Shield Charm, creating a shimmering half-dome of silver that protected me from the jaws of the remaining wolves. At the same time, I had to keep a close eye on Hien, who was using the distraction to launch more spells in my direction.

Moving my Shield Charm to my right hand, I continued to dodge and deflect Hien’s spells while simultaneously fending off the spectral wolves. I had to stay nimble, relying on my instincts and reflexes to carry me through the fight.

“Only defending and running?” Hien called out, seemingly disappointed as he continued to cast spells my way, not allowing me time to recover.

A wolf’s claw grazed my ankle and I hissed in pain, tripping and falling into a controlled roll before fending off the wolf following up behind him.

“How disappointing…” He said, conjuring even more wolves.

I said nothing, instead watching the boy’s movements, as well as the flow of his aura as I quickly got to my feet and continued to deflect and dodge attacks from all sides. 

Hien’s taunting words stung, and his relentless assault didn’t give me a moment to breathe. I continued to fend off spells, curses and spectral wolves, doing my best to stay on my feet despite the injury to my ankle.

As I rolled to evade another wolf’s attack, I couldn’t help but grit my teeth. I knew I couldn’t afford to remain solely on the defensive, and I needed to find a way to counterattack.

One mistake and I’m done for.

I observed his movements and the flow of his magical energy. There had to be a pattern or a tell that I could exploit.

With each spell he cast, I analyzed the way he positioned his wand, the incantations he used, and the timing of his attacks even as he carried them out.

I deflected spells and maneuvered through the ring, finally noticing something— a slight hesitation in his energy and casting whenever I forced him to cast to his left. It was a subtle tell, but it was there.

Banishing a few more of the wolves off of the arena, I tested my theory out twice, making sure to keep my movements erratic enough for Hien to not catch onto what I was doing.

The first test, I paid for it with a few scratches and cuts to my back; the second, a quick bite to my ankle— enough to draw quite a bit of blood, but it was at least confirmed.

Throughout all of this, I could hear Griffiths’ voice, announcing the match.

“And it looks like Adam is taking a bold move here, dodging those wolves, taking a nasty bite to the ankle— just what is he going to do?” She called out even as I was being slowly pushed to the edge. “Whatever it is, it’s an impressive display of resilience! But it seems it’s only delayed the inevitable. Black is mere inches away from a disqualification!”

“Moratta!” Hien cried out, sending all of his mutts at me, all the while he shot out two Stunning Charms in quick succession, with a third on the way. With my back to the edge of the arena, there was no getting away from this.

Still, I grit my teeth as I fixed all of my power, will and desire to my wand, the Shield Charm on my off hand disappearing.

Stronger than diamond. My will sharpened.

“Odgovor!” I incanted, and a whirlwind of ethereal chains erupted from my wand, spiraling outward with vicious fervor.

The chains moved with an almost chaotic grace, their forms twisting and turning in seemingly unpredictable patterns.

With unwavering, unblinking focus, I continued channeling my intent into the wand. As the three Stunning Charms raced toward me, I guided the chains to intercept them, deflecting each one with precision and sending them harmlessly flying out of bounds.

With the immediate threat neutralized, I directed the chains toward the remaining spectral wolves that closed in on me.

The chaintips pierced through the constructs, causing the wolves to howl in pain before dissipating into nothingness.

Not wasting a single moment, I seized the opportunity, dismissed my chains, and swiftly moved to the left of Hien.

I got closer and closer, waiting for the right instant.

Now! Just as Hien hesitated, I struck. Depulso!

The force of the spell sent him flying off the arena with a loud cry of surprise.

The crowd was silent as I stood on the platform, panting.

“What a monumental reversal! Hien Retsu has flown out of the arena! What a move by Adam Black! Just what were those chains?”

The audience erupted into thunderous applause and cheers, the excitement in the air palpable as I stood victorious, my adrenaline still pumping from the intense duel.

I… I won. I thought to myself even as I slowly got my breathing under control.

I turned my attention back to the crowd, the roar of their cheers echoing in my ears.

The feeling of accomplishment washed over me, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride.

I waved to the cheering crowd, my excitement shining through my normal composure as I gave them a wide grin, making them cheer even louder.

There was no feeling like this.