The second week at Hogwarts Academy of Duelists began with a clear shift in focus. The first week had been an introduction to their new life at Hogwarts—timetables, new classes, and getting to know their decks. But now, as the week progressed, it was time to put their knowledge into practice. Every lesson from here on out would include practical sessions, held in the Class Practical Lairs: specially designed arenas where students would hone their skills under the guidance of their professors.
Each class now spanned two hours—one hour of lecture, followed by an hour of hands-on practice, where students tested the strategies they had learned, summoning their monsters, casting Spell Cards, and getting a feel for the flow of duels.
Monday: Alchemy of Spell Cards and Foresight Techniques
Morning: Alchemy of Spell Cards – Professor Snape
The familiar cold atmosphere of Professor Snape's classroom greeted them Monday morning. Snape's lecture today was on Continuous Spell Cards—spells that remained active throughout a duel, offering constant effects or protection. The theory was straightforward enough, but crafting these spells was a delicate process.
"Continuous spells require discipline," Snape said sharply, his voice cutting through the silence of the room. "Once they are on the field, any mistake in their creation will cost you. Unlike single-use spells, these must be sustained."
As Snape lectured, Harry glanced over at Ron, who was furiously scribbling notes, trying to keep up. Hermione, of course, was already a step ahead, her parchment filled with precise diagrams and explanations.
After an hour of theory, they were led to one of the Class Practical Lairs—a large, circular room with elevated platforms for practice. The walls shimmered with magical barriers, ensuring that any misfires or backfiring spells wouldn't harm the students. The lairs were designed to mimic real dueling arenas, allowing students to work in pairs or small groups under the watchful eye of their professors.
"Potter, Weasley, Granger—pair up," Snape commanded, his dark eyes sweeping over them.
Ron groaned quietly. "Why does he always watch us like a hawk?"
"Because he's waiting for us to mess up," Hermione whispered back, though she was already organizing her deck and Spell Cards for the practical.
They began crafting their Continuous Spell Cards under Snape's scrutiny. Harry carefully manipulated the energies of his Sky Striker deck to maintain a defensive barrier with a Continuous Spell, while Hermione, calm and precise, focused on boosting her monsters' attack using a well-crafted support spell.
Ron, however, struggled to keep his spell active. The card flickered in and out of existence as he tried to channel energy into it. "Why won't this thing work?" Ron muttered, his frustration growing.
"Because you lack focus, Weasley," Snape snapped from behind, startling Ron. "Continuous spells require your complete attention. If you're distracted, they will fail."
Ron grumbled under his breath but made another attempt, managing to stabilize the spell after a few more tries.
Neville, in another group, was being helped by Jackie, who seemed to have a natural talent for managing Continuous Spells. Her calm demeanor made the practical less stressful, and Neville slowly gained confidence as he maintained his Sylvan deck's Field Spell.
Afternoon: Foresight and Future Sight – Professor Trelawney
After lunch, they made their way to Professor Trelawney's class, where the mood was completely different. Trelawney's room was dimly lit, filled with the scent of burning incense and soft cushions scattered around the floor. Her lesson today was about developing foresight—predicting your opponent's next move and planning several steps ahead in a duel.
