The days at Hogwarts passed in a blur of lessons, training, and magical discoveries. With his second year now fully underway, Ezekiel Malverne found himself balancing his time between studying magic, Quidditch, and strengthening his connections.
However, the expectations on him were growing. His increasing talent and influence were drawing attention—from professors, students, and even certain factions outside Hogwarts.
But Ezekiel was never one to falter under pressure.
---
Late at night, hidden within the enchanted study chamber, Ezekiel traced a glowing rune with his finger. The ancient symbols carved into the stone walls responded to his magic, pulsating with cold blue light.
He had been experimenting with ice magic beyond combat—learning how to infuse his will into the element rather than simply wielding it like a tool.
With a slow exhale, he extended his hand forward. Frost spread from his fingertips, forming intricate crystal patterns in the air. Unlike his previous crude constructs, these were precise, controlled—as if the ice itself was responding to his thoughts.
"Good... my control is improving."
However, there was something more—a depth to his lineage's lost magic that he had yet to fully uncover. He knew he was only scratching the surface of what he could truly achieve.
---
The coursework in his second year had intensified, but Ezekiel thrived in the challenges.
Charms: Professor Flitwick had begun introducing non-verbal casting techniques, something Ezekiel had already attempted on his own.
Defense Against the Dark Arts: The dueling exercises were more advanced now, forcing him to refine his counter-spells and reaction speed.
Transfiguration: McGonagall had introduced partial human transfiguration, an incredibly difficult skill that intrigued him.
Potions: While not his strongest subject, Ezekiel's precision allowed him to maintain a consistent performance, much to Snape's reluctant approval.
What fascinated him the most was the Ravenclaw study materials he had access to through his family.
Within the study chamber, he deciphered texts on ancient magic theories and the philosophy of spellcasting. It wasn't just about casting a spell—it was about understanding its fundamental nature.
"Magic isn't just about power. It's about knowing how to shape it."
And Ezekiel was becoming very good at shaping it.
---
It wasn't just his magical skills that were advancing—his name was also gaining weight in the political circles of the wizarding world.
Even from Hogwarts, Ezekiel remained informed about current events. Letters from his father kept him updated on Wizengamot affairs and the growing tensions in magical politics.
His family's status meant that certain factions were already paying attention to him, and Ezekiel understood that his influence was only going to increase.
At times, he would receive messages from various noble families, disguised as casual correspondence but filled with subtle political maneuvering.
"They're already watching me."
But he wasn't concerned.
"Let them watch. I'll carve my own path."
---
One evening, as he sat alone in the study chamber, a strange sensation washed over him—a sudden, unexplainable chill.
Not from his own magic.
Something was changing.
Ezekiel's fingers curled over the edge of his chair as he stared into the dimly lit room.
He didn't know what it was yet, but a storm was coming.
And he would be ready for it.
---
The start of Ezekiel's second year at Hogwarts had been smooth so far. With the return to classes, deeper magical studies, and the quiet confidence that came from a year of experience, he felt more comfortable than ever. But there was one thing he was particularly looking forward to—Quidditch.
It had become more than just a game for him. His skill and performance in his first year had already earned him a strong reputation, and now, with a new Quidditch season starting, the stakes were even higher.
---
The Ravenclaw Quidditch team gathered on the pitch for their first official meeting of the year. Standing at the front was Roger Davies, a skilled Chaser who had just been appointed as the new team captain after the previous captain graduated.
Roger had been one of the standout players last season, and now, as captain, he exuded a sense of confidence and authority.
"Alright, team," Roger started, pacing in front of them. "Last year, we put up a good fight, but this time, we're going all the way. We've got the talent, the strategy, and a damn good team. But that won't matter if we don't train harder than the rest."
His eyes landed on Ezekiel, who was already regarded as the team's star Chaser despite being younger than most of the players.
"Ez, you were a game-changer last season. We're counting on you even more this year," Roger said, nodding at him. "You're not just a key player—you're going to be our tactical advantage."
Ezekiel smirked. "No pressure, right?"
The team chuckled, and Roger continued, "We'll have our first practice tomorrow evening. I want you all on your best game. This year, we're going to dominate."
With that, the meeting ended, and the team dispersed, talking excitedly among themselves.
---
After the meeting, Ezekiel stayed behind for a moment. He felt Roger's eyes on him, and sure enough, the captain approached.
"You're serious about Quidditch, aren't you?" Roger asked.
Ezekiel nodded. "I plan on making a career out of it."
Roger grinned. "Then you'll need to push even harder. Talent alone isn't enough. If you really want to be the best, you'll have to train like it."
Ezekiel's determination only grew. "Then let's win this season. I'll do whatever it takes."
"That's what I like to hear," Roger said, clapping him on the shoulder before heading off.
---
Outside of Quidditch, Ezekiel continued his deep dive into magical studies. His second-year classes were more demanding, but he found that his private magical research excited him even more.
At night, after finishing his assignments, he spent hours in the Room of Records, deciphering the ancient magic texts he had retrieved from his vaults. The deeper he delved, the more he realized—his magic was evolving, growing stronger in ways that set him apart.
But for now, he had a new challenge on the horizon. The Quidditch season was about to begin, and Ravenclaw was aiming for the top.
This year, he wasn't just playing—he was leading the charge.
---