The Next Voodoo Queen: Diamond Jones

Chapter 1 : The Lost SpellBook

Chapter 1: The Streets of New Orleans

Diamond Jones awoke to the familiar sound of sirens blaring in the distance. It was a symphony she had grown accustomed to, living in the heart of New Orleans' Ninth Ward. The humid air clung to her skin as she pushed aside the thin blanket that covered her. She glanced at the clock on her nightstand; it was 6:00 AM, time to start another day in the hood.

Her mother, Angela, was already up, bustling around the small kitchen of their cramped apartment. "Morning, Ma," Diamond greeted as she walked in.

"Morning, baby," Angela replied, her voice tired but warm. "I made some grits and eggs. You need to eat before you head to school."

Diamond nodded, grabbing a plate and serving herself. Her younger brother, Malik, sat at the table, munching on toast. At twelve years old, Malik was a bright kid with a big heart, but living in their neighborhood was tough on him. Diamond had always been fiercely protective of him, making sure he stayed out of trouble.

After breakfast, Diamond grabbed her backpack and kissed her mom on the cheek. "See you later, Ma."

"Stay safe, Diamond," Angela called after her, worry etched in her voice.

Walking to school, Diamond navigated the familiar streets, avoiding trouble as best she could. The neighborhood was a mix of vibrant culture and harsh reality. Colorful murals adorned walls, celebrating the rich history of New Orleans, while abandoned buildings and graffiti told a different story. Diamond's high school, just a few blocks away, was both a refuge and a battleground. She was determined to excel academically, knowing it was her ticket to a better life.

At school, Diamond met up with her best friend, Tasha. "Hey, girl," Tasha greeted, her smile brightening Diamond's morning.

"Hey, Tasha," Diamond replied. "Ready for another day of this mess?"

"Always," Tasha laughed. "We got this."

Classes went by in a blur of lectures and notes. Diamond was a top student, her grades a testament to her hard work and determination. But even in the classroom, she couldn't escape the stories about her family's past. Whispers about her great-grandmother, Marie Laveau, followed her everywhere. Some saw it as a badge of honor, others as a source of fear and superstition.

During lunch, Diamond and Tasha sat under a large oak tree in the schoolyard. "You ever think about those stories they tell about your great-grandma?" Tasha asked, curiosity in her eyes.

"All the time," Diamond admitted. "But my mom doesn't talk about it much. Says it's all in the past."

"I don't know, D. I think there's more to it," Tasha said, leaning in conspiratorially. "Maybe you got some of that magic in you."

Diamond chuckled. "I doubt it. I'm just trying to get through high school and get out of here."

But Tasha's words lingered in her mind. That evening, as Diamond helped her mom clean the attic, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to her family's story. The attic was a dusty, cluttered space filled with old furniture, boxes, and forgotten memories. Diamond was sorting through a pile of books when something caught her eye.

It was an old, dusty trunk, hidden beneath a tattered blanket. "Hey, Ma, what's this?" Diamond called out.

Angela looked up, her expression suddenly wary. "That's... nothing. Just some old family stuff."

Diamond's curiosity was piqued. She lifted the blanket and opened the trunk. Inside, she found ancient books, talismans, and a worn leather journal. The name "Marie Laveau" was scrawled on the cover.

"Ma, this is great-grandma's stuff," Diamond said, her voice filled with awe.

Angela sighed, her shoulders slumping. "Yes, it is. I've been keeping it hidden. Didn't want you getting mixed up in all that."

"But why?" Diamond asked, flipping through the journal's pages.

"Because it's dangerous," Angela replied. "Marie Laveau was powerful, and with power comes danger. I wanted to protect you."

Diamond's eyes widened as she read the journal. It was filled with spells, rituals, and stories of Marie Laveau's life. The more she read, the more she felt a connection to her great-grandmother. "I want to learn more," Diamond said, determination in her voice.

Angela looked at her daughter, a mix of fear and pride in her eyes. "Be careful, Diamond. This isn't something to take lightly."

As Diamond continued to read, she felt a strange sensation, as if the words were awakening something deep within her. She knew her life was about to change, and she was ready to embrace her destiny.