Location: Celestial Hall
Professor: Professor Ignatius Flamel
An expert in fundamental spellwork and control, known for his engaging and practical teaching methods.
The Celestial Hall buzzed with the eager anticipation of first-year students ready for their first Basic Spellcasting class. The room was illuminated by floating candles, casting a warm, inviting glow over the ornate stone carvings and stained glass windows.
A tall, charismatic man with salt-and-pepper hair and a twinkle in his eye stepped forward. His robes shimmered with hints of starry constellations, and he exuded an air of both wisdom and playfulness.
"Hello, everyone. My name is Ignatius Flamel, and I will be your spellcasting teacher. Today, we will be learning two essential spells: Starflare and Nightshade."
He waved his wand, and a gentle light filled the room. "Starflare emits a bright, starlike light from your wand," he demonstrated, casting the spell to produce a soft, radiant glow from his wand tip. "And Nightshade extinguishes any light produced by the caster," he continued, performing the spell to snuff out the light instantly.
"These spells are useful for turning light sources on and off, whether you're reading late at night or navigating dark hallways."
Kieran Stormrider slouched in his seat, clearly unimpressed. "Urghhh, so boring," he muttered under his breath. Suddenly, he sprang up, eager to show off. "Let me show you how it's done! Starflare!"
A blindingly bright light exploded from Kieran's wand, far more intense than intended. The spell burst with a loud pop, sending Kieran tumbling off his seat and onto the floor. The entire class burst into laughter.
Aurora Silverleaf, seated nearby, couldn't resist a witty comment. "Looks like his bulb just got broken," she giggled, prompting even more laughter from the students.
Professor Flamel chuckled softly but quickly regained the class's attention. "Now, now, settle down. Remember, spellcasting requires control and precision. Let's try it again, but this time with a bit more focus and restraint. Starflare should illuminate, not blind."
He walked over to Kieran and helped him to his feet. "Good effort, Kieran. Just remember, the key to spellcasting is balance."
The students practiced diligently, each taking turns to cast Starflare and Nightshade. Professor Flamel moved among them, offering tips and corrections, his encouraging words boosting their confidence.
Aric, observing the lesson, felt a surge of determination. He raised his wand and whispered, "Starflare." A steady, gentle light emerged, illuminating his face with a soft glow.
Professor Flamel noticed and smiled. "Excellent, Aric! Perfect control. Now try Nightshade."
Aric nodded and focused, casting "Nightshade." The light vanished smoothly, leaving the room bathed in the ambient glow of the enchanted candles.
Some students watching Aric were in awe, amazed at his perfect control. Professor Flamel's curiosity was piqued. "Have you used spells before, Aric?" he asked.
"No," Aric replied honestly, "I just got my wand yesterday, sir. This is all my first. If I'm good, then that is due to your teaching."
Kieran, watching from the side, felt a pang of jealousy as he saw Aric flattering the professor. "Flatterer, yuck," he muttered under his breath, crossing his arms and frowning.
Professor Flamel chuckled. "Well, if that's the case, Aric, then you are a natural. Keep up the good work."
The students continued to practice, with Aric helping a few who were struggling. His calm demeanor and helpful attitude only endeared him more to his classmates, though it did little to ease Kieran's growing resentment.
By the end of the lesson, most of the students had mastered the basics of the two spells. Professor Flamel concluded the class with a few encouraging words. "Remember, every great wizard started with the basics. Master these, and you'll build a strong foundation for all the magic to come."
As they packed up their wands and notes, Kieran approached Aric, a sheepish grin on his face. "Guess you got lucky there, Aric."
Aric smiled back. "Thanks, Kieran. You'll get the hang of it."