A Cruel Fate of Endless Devotion

Chapter ten: The Second Trial

Melody anxiously tapped her foot as she glanced around the Three Broomsticks. Against her wishes, Poppy and Natty dragged her along to celebrate Hufflepuff's Quidditch victory against Ravenclaw. She didn't want to go to the celebration because deep down she knew she should prepare for the second trial. The pressure was mounting, and she couldn't afford to waste time on festivities when she needed to focus on honing her magical skills and strategizing for the upcoming challenge. But with how secretive the Keepers were about the trials, it made it exceedingly difficult for her to do so.

"The girls were right, this is a lot of fun. But I shouldn't be here. I should be conferring with Professor Fig and the Keepers"

"Oi, Sterling! Where are you going, love?" Garreth tipsily shouted as she stood up.

She looked back at her group of friends. The close-knit group formed a bond over their shared interests and adventures. Natty and Adelaide were inseparable, always engrossed in deep conversations and laughter. Garreth, the charismatic one, took pride in sharing his latest accomplishments with Poppy, who admired him with wide-eyed adoration. Meanwhile, Duncan, the more reserved one, found comfort in each other's quiet presence as they listened attentively to Garreth's tales. And Leander... well Leander was just there to be an arse.

"I need some fresh air!"

Excusing herself from Garreth and the others, Poppy quickly followed her best friend. Her heart raced as she noticed the worry etched on Melody's face, triggering a deep sense of concern that propelled her to chase after her without hesitation.

"Oh sweet Merlin I never thought the cold air would feel so nice" Melody groaned as the brisk winter air prickled against the warmth of her skin.

"Mel? What's wrong? You look a little flustered, like something's bothering you"

As the only other person aware of her secret magical abilities, besides Professor Fig and Sebastian, Poppy became more than Melody's roommate and best friend. She was Melody's confidante, offering support, guidance, and a crucial bond of trust in a world where her abilities made her a target for those who sought to use it.

"I'm going to the second trial tonight. I've been trying to prepare for it all week but without knowing what I'm up against, it's been hard" Melody sighed.

The tension between wizards and goblins reached new heights as the divide deepened. Every move made by her and Professor Fig seemed futile against the cunning strategies of Ranrok and his allies, leaving them constantly struggling to catch up.

"Can't someone go with you? You're stretching yourself too thin. This all seems like so much pressure to be putting on someone as young as us"

Poppy had never seen her best friend in such a state before. The trials had taken a toll on her both physically and mentally, and it was evident in the exhaustion etched on her face and the injuries that adorned her body. Poppy couldn't help but be concerned that these trials were pushing Melody to her breaking point.

"The keepers were adamant that I must complete the trials alone. There's nothing I can do but what's been instructed of me" Melody sighed. "Speaking of, I should get going. I don't want to keep Professor Fig waiting"

"Should I wait up for you?" Poppy kindly offered.

"No. I don't even know when I'll be returning. Go have fun with the others, I will be alright, Poppy" Melody replied as she reached out to hug her best friend goodbye.

"Good luck"

**********

Sebastian's heart raced with anticipation as he pushed open the door, his eyes scanning the crowded room for a glimpse of Melody's familiar face. He couldn't help but imagine the joyous atmosphere, filled with laughter and cheers, as her housemates celebrated their triumph on the Quidditch field.