The Witch Queen of Avalon
A Harry Potter UNIVERSE/ Sasporilla Bucket Fan Fiction
by Darren Kelly
Chapter 1
The Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium sat just over one hundred thousand witches and wizards. It's giant circular white marble walls stood as a symbol of sports excellence. Second only to that of the Royal Avalon Crowns Quidditch Stadium, which sat close to a million fans, but was far to good for an upstart such as Sasporilla Bucket.
Owls had been sent throughout the entire known worlds. Private invitations from the Witch Queen herself to come and witness the spectacle. The once in a life time show that promised not to disappoint. A special concert by the Chocolate Frogs plus other musical acts! Demonstrations of skill by the Royal Guard show division and the piece de resistance, the failure of Sasporilla Bucket to achieve her trials of Witch Queen.
The bright red screen read AVN as the deep easily recognizable voice of award winning actor Horace Brogthrotle said "THIS IS AVN!"
The music swelled as the new AVN theme song for the Witch Queen Trials lead the new intro graphics onto the screen. The very monotone blue screen with a picture of Sassy hanging her head read "The Witch Queen Trial of Sasporilla Bucket" in an almost accusatory way.
The Graphic faded to the faces of James MacNare and Morgana Moonshadow who stood together in the press box in the empty stadium.
"Hello viewers." Morgan Moonshadow smiled like the cat who swallowed the entire bird cage. "We are moments away from the opening of stadium. The guests of our glorious most honourable and generous Witch Queen will begin to arrive any moment now! Our own James MacNare will be covering the Red Carpet arrivals! You'd better get down there James!"
"Indeed I shall!" James MacNare said apperating onto the red carpet as the main gates to the stadium opened. Large torches in the shape of wands sparked and burst alight! Royal guard marched out through the gate. Formal gold armour was the uniform of the day with full ground length capes, helmets with gold mask fronts. Each carried a sword, a spear, a 6 foot trumpet and of course a wand. They lined the red carpet between the road way and the gate creating a living wall of protection for the Witch Queens Guests to enter the stadium safely.
"As you can see the Royal guard is in full regalia for the event." James MacNare smiled as they raised their trumpets and blew an announcement as the first stretch vehicle pulled up. "And the first Royal guest has arrived!"
A royal footman stepped up to the side of the long stretch vehicle and opened the door. The Witch Queen herself, wearing a most magnificent ivory coloured gown, stepped out onto the red carpet followed by the Warlock King in a finely tailored Black tuxedo.
"Your Highness." James MacNare bowed as she approached smiling. "May I ask who designed that lovely gown?"
"This is of my own design James." Bougainvillea smiled humbly to the camera's. "My personal seamstress does the rest of course. She is just a miracle worker with a needle and thread!"
"Yes she cewtenwee is!" The Warlock King smiled. "Why she could make an O'd pototato wook wike a movie staw!!!"
The smile quickly left the Witch Queens face as they moved on past. The camera did not follow the Royal couple but the mic picked up the Warlock Kings "Ouch", "OOCH,", "OUCH!" Despite James MacNare's uncomfortably trying to talk over them.
"Oh my yes what a wonderful insite into the design talents of the Witch Queen."
"I'm sowwy! No I didn't mean you wooked wike a potato!!!!"
"Back to you Morgana!" James MacNare smiled nervously.
*******
Sasporilla Bucket watched the event unfolding from the small holding area set-up inside the stadiums lavish visiting team locker room. Despite the plush couch and chairs, the Live Wire and buffet provided, it was still very much a prison. Royal Guards stood front at front and back entrances to make sure the young witch made no attempt at escape. Not that there was much point. The wards and spells to keep her locked in were probably none existent! The Witch Queen would like nothing more than for Sasporilla Bucket to run for the hills! A coward, to afraid to back up her convictions and try to save her friends.
The royal seamstress had created several spectacular outfits for Sassy to wear during the trials. Many jumpsuits that would allow for maximum movement and freedom, while reflecting style worthy of that of a child of nobility. Even if she were an upstart niece daring to challenge.
"Have you decided on an outfit yet miss?" The seamstress asked.
"The purple pants and shirt with my cloak that I was brought in with will suit me just fine." Sasporilla said.
"The cloak is of average quality st best miss but the clothes?" The seamstress questioned. "They're MUGGLE made clothes."
"Yes they are!" Sasporilla smiled. "And I'll wear them proudly, if someone will bring them to me?"
"Right away miss." The royal seamstress said.
Guests began to apperate in droves on the red carpet as more and more vehicle arrive carrying very important guests. Politicians, entertainers, important wizards and witches
From every world spilled in.
The oddest of which chose neither to apperate nor take any form of vehicle but to walk from where he had been staying. A frog the size of a small house elf, dressed in very simple white robes, carrying a bag and a flute stepped onto the red carpet accompanied by Professor Splatterpalette dressed in a beautiful Rainbow gown and Professor Phenix dressed in a gown of Red flame.
"Oh my!" James MacNare said waving his camera to follow him as he approached. "As you can see we are graced with the his grace, the holiest of holies, the Frogai Lama. The magi monk made famous in story & song!"
"Greetings kind soul," the Frogai Lama said, "blessings on you and peace on your Witch Queen."
"You were invited to the trials?" James MacNare asked surprised.
"I was!" The Frogai Lama smiled. "I could hardly refuse to witness this! The greatest moment in Magi history!!! I brought along two good friends with me to enjoy in the festivities. This will be a wonderful experience that people will speak of for a thousand years." The Frogai Lama continued down the red carpet into the stadium leaving everyone speechless.
"Do you think everyone will still be speaking of your failure in one thousand years Sasporilla?" The Witch Queen said smiling in the doorway, her footman carrying the clothing that Sassy had requested.
"I believe that one way or the other," Sasporilla said standing, "that people will speak of those who were brave enough to stand up to a tyrant. Maybe inspire more to do the same until there are no more tyrants...EVER!"
"Brave." The Witch Queen said amused, "to the last! Get dressed. Your on soon enough. I expect you to put on a good show. You are family after all. I don't intend to kill you, straight off, but if you test me?"
Sasporilla took her clothes and walked behind a changing screen. "If I test you? You'll what? I have no illusions about what you are aunt Bougainvillea! Don't try to make it seem as if you have some compassion?"
"I don't." The Witch Queen sniffed. "However your Uncle, the Warlock King is full of it! He has begged me to give you one last chance, And I will, when the time is right. For now dress in your mugglery and get ready for your challenges. The rules for each challenge will be explained before hand."
"Making them up as you go along?" Sasporilla sighed. "Pathetic and predictable."
"Insolent whelp I should..." the Witch Queen growled drawing her wand.
"Kill me? Right here? That will look good?" Sassy said no wand in hand. "Go on you bloody coward! Kill your unarmed niece for having a sassy mouth in front of all these witnesses!"
The Witch Queen had never had anyone, in her life look at her with such intense rebellion. Sasporilla stood before her almost nose to nose, showing no fear in her young eyes. The Witch Queen saw something else she had never seen before, admiration for her opponent!
"Well played Sasporilla Bucket." The Witch Queen said putting away her wand. "Well played."
**************
The dark maintenance tunnels below the Spharx fields provided the perfect clandestine meeting place for the Witch Queen to meet with her advisors moments before the festivities were to begin. Six darkly cloaked figures, wearing masks of gold, lined up before her.
"Today my most trusted advisors, my most powerful magi, my friends." The Witch Queen smiled, "I send you into a very one sided gladiatorial combat to protect my throne. I have set up a number of tasks that will give you ample opportunities to exterminate this fly buzzing around my crown!"
Laughter was low but sincere. The vicious bunch of wizard and witches could not wait to get their hands on the young witch and torture her. Henimaxx Dimm the technomancer who was now more machine than man. Marie Laveau the old witch that had hidden as a beautiful young professor feeding off innocent young necromancy students at the University for decades. Gormlobim the twisted Hobgoblin who would sooner profit off the sale of his fellow fae than see to there benefit. However none was more eager to get a chance at hurting Sasporilla Bucket than Sheliza Amari. They had an old score to settle.
"In the event that you fail." The smile sliding from the witch Queens face. "Bringing shame to me publicly before multiple worlds! I, have seen to it that no matter what, Sasporilla Bucket WILL... NOT... WIN!"
*********************
"Royal Box M?" Narcissa Malfoy sniffed stepping inside following the usher. "It's a personal slight by Bougenvallia! This is all your fathers fault for our social outcast Draco!"
"Yes Mother." Draco smiled. "If only father had listened to you, perhaps he wouldn't have gotten involved with Voldemort?"
Narcissa turned to glare at her cheeky son. He had grown quite the back bone of late and wore it well, though she found it most annoying!
"Seats M01 and M02". The Usher smiled and apparated away in a swirl to attend to others.
Narcissa Malfoy's eyes brightened when she saw that they would be sharing a box with the Frogai Lama and his guests. A cat like grin spread across her face as she walked past her seat and stood before the peaceful Frog man sitting in the lotus position on his seat between his the two professors.
"It is an honour to meet you your holiness." Narcissa Malfoy nodded politely.
The Frogai Lama felt professor Phenix stiffen and placed his long thin froggy fingers on her arm to calm her. "Is it? In which way is it an honour?"
"To meet someone of your standing and prestige." Narcissa Malfoy smiled.
"I see." The Frogai Lama sighed. "You are a person of social standing and hold such things in high regard. You have not yet reached the first milestone on your journey to enlightenment. Though I sense there is that potential in you should you choose to walk the path."
Draco covered his smile with his hand politely as not to embarrass his mother any further.
"Now you young man." The Frogai Lama smiled. "You have discovered there is more to life than social standing and money. Good for you. The path is long and yours to walk. If you ever wish to stroll together for a day I shall gladly join you."
"Thank you sir." Draco Malfoy said ushering his shocked mother back to her seat as professor Splatterpalette cast a very inconspicuous silence barrier around them.
"Leave it to Bougenvallia to put a spy like Narcissa in our box." Professor Phenix said.
"Perhaps she was placed with is for her spiritual enlightenment?" The Frogai Lama said with a small smile.
Professor Splatterpalette burst into laughter. "Jeremiah, you always crack me up!"
"It's just that I've never liked any of the Black sisters." Professor Phenix said. "We have... history."
"I understand Josie." The Frogai Lama said. "However history, which is to be learned from, is as much gravel on the path you have already traveled. To continue to walk on it gets you no where. To carry it with you, weighs you down."
"You're right of course Jeremiah." Professor Phenix smiled letting go. "Thank you."
"Thank you Josie." The Frogai Lama said. "For walking the path of betterment and truth."
"And what path do I walk Jeremiah?" Professor Splatterpalette asked.
"Dina my friend your path is one of truth so unique no one else could walk it!" The Frogai Lama patted her arm. "A soul so full of love and life, creativity and fierce loyalty to those worthy. I fear this world will lose you after this life. Your path is a complete one. You know what is important and are ready and worthy to move on... unless you choose to hang out and have fun. I could see you choosing to do that. As other old souls choose to stay behind and defend the world from the most despicable evils."
"Thank you Jeremiah." Professor Splatterpalette said, tears welling in her eyes.
The royal guards blew their trumpets, signaling the start of the tournament.
The Witch Queen and Warlock King stepped onto the royal balcony box hand in hand waving to the thunderous applause of the padded crowd. The Witch Queen drew her wand and cast the amplifying charm SONORUS. Placing the wand to her neck she smiled and began to speak.
"Welcome my guests." The Witch Queen said as she looked around the crowd almost lovingly. "It seems like it was only yesterday that we were gathered here to witness the right of passage which is a Witch Queen trial. That which comes when an old queen passes away and all of the young witches of Nobel birth are gathered to test their talents in games against each other. The best of whom will be crowned the new Witch Queen. I was the last Nobel girl to be chosen."
There was a wonderful round of applause as the witch Queen held up her hand feigning humility.
"Alas, the days of patience and decency are over." The Witch Queen sighed. "My good name besmirched by my actions in those trials. Did I do whatever it took to win? Yes, as I do what ever it takes to make things happen for Avalon! That is what a real Witch Queen does!!!"
The crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Narcissa Malfoy standing and clapping loudly. Draco tried not to let his disgust and disdain show.
"Draco!" Narcissa insisted. "Stand up and show some respect!"
"Yes mother." Draco said standing and silently clapping.
The Professors sat silently along with the Frogai Lama who enjoyed a bite of popcorn.
"I stand before you today, my throne CHALLENGED by my niece!"
Boo's filled the stadium. The Witch Queen held up her hand to silence them.
"Now, now." The Witch Queen said. "She is my niece after all. However there are no other girls of Nobel standing to compete against her in the challenge trials. So I have hand picked some of my Royal Guard and my most trusted advisors..."
A hatch in the stadium floor slid open and twelve cloaked figures levitated up on a platform that snapped into place. The twelve champions raised their wands in salute.
"... witches and wizards of magi society may I present to you my champions! Those whom I have tasked to test my challenger to her most extreme abilities! And perhaps and step farther. For that is what it means to be a Witch Queen!"
Thunderous applause echoed the crowds approval of the Witch Queens choice.
"But before we begin the trials I have arranged for you some entertainment." The Witch Queen said motioning to the stage which rose from the depths of center field. "My guests please welcome by Royal Command, The Chocolate Frogs."
"Hello Av-a-lon!!!!" Myron Wagtail screamed into the mic as the music began to swell. "Are you ready Avalon? Shake shake it, ya ya!"
Karry and Zac, dressed in coveralls moved around some random boxes back stage.
"Oy!" Principal Freemance, a rather up tight old man but one of the best back stage managers in the business, called out, "who are you two?"
"Mr.Wagtail's personal roadie’s sir." Zac said showing his badge. "He wanted these boxes cleared and his rest station made ready for during Mr.Manxx's solo."
"Oh yes." Freemance snipped. "I remember Wagtail saying something about you. Well be quick about it. Stay out of the way of the regular workings and for goodness sakes keep it professional!"
"Yes sir." Karry nodded getting right back to work.
Once they were sure all eyes were off of them Karry and Zac ducked into a small broom cupboard and locked the door behind them.
"Ok." Karry said as she stripped off the coveralls revealing her normal clothes beneath. Reaching deep into her bag she pulled out a bluish/purplish cloak.
"I'm glad Harry lent that to you." Zac smiled.
"It took a bit of arm twisting." Karry said throwing the cloak over her shoulders and watching her body disappear. "But Ginny plead our case for us."
"So you know the plan?" Zac asked.
"I go look around for Sasporilla and get her out of here." Karry smiled. "And I have until the ENCORE to look."
"That's right." Zac said. "Once they start playing Do the Hippogriff..."
"I have to get back and into my coveralls by the time Timpany Munchausen plays Black Magic Woman." Karry said kissing her husband and throwing the cloak over her head. "I know."
"It's a good thing they each chose to play one song each from their old bands for the fans." Zac said opening the door to allow Karry to slip away unseen. "It will give you enough time, hopefully."
The music rang through the stadium, lulling and exciting the crowd. It permeated down into even the deepest of tunnels beneath the structure. Karry moved as Quickly as she dared past guards and around officials moving through on dubious duties for the Witch Queen. She turned one corner and came face to gigantic back end with an Erumpant.
A very angry woman dressed in khaki shorts and blue robes, with shoulder length blue hair yelled at two Royal Guards .
"Where am I going?" Professor Hannah yelled! "I am taking my bloody Erumpant, that you came and took from my bloody zoo along with s bunch of other of my beasts, without as much as a bloody BY YOUR LEAVE or MOTHER BLOODY MAY I, DID YOU??? You just came and took them!!!"
"By Royal command!" The guard said holding the Erumpants tether. "This beast belongs to the Witch Queen!"
"This Beast has a name!" Professor Hanna yelled. "Her name is Dolly and she is with child!!! She is in no state to do any task for your Witch Queens idiot games. Now let her go or I'll have her ram her horn right up your...."
"Ok, ok... "the guard capitulated. "We'll need some sort of replacement."
"I'll supply you something appropriate." Professor Hannah smiled. "Why just show your games keeper to me and I'll work everything out."
It was nearing the end of the Chocolate Frogs normal set when Karry found where Sasporilla was being held. The room was heavily guarded but easy enough to sneak into wearing Harry Potter's invisibility cloak. Sasporilla sat in a chair, her eyes closed, her mind fixed on the tasks at hand.
"Sassy." Karry whispered in her ear.
Sasporilla's eyes shot open but it took every bit self control not to jump.
"Sasporilla it's me Karry. I'm here to rescue you."
Sasporilla stood up and walked over to the outfit the Witch Queen's seamstress had designed for her. She picked it up with a look of reconsideration.
"Could I ask everyone to just step out side while I try on the outfit by the Queen's seamstress." Sassy asked politely.
"We're not letting you out of our sights!" The Guard said.
"I'm just asking for some privacy so I might try this on?" Sasporilla said.
"What's wrong with the dressing bind?" The guard asked.
"It's not private enough." Sasporilla said. "Not with all the snitch cams and eyes everywhere?"
"I guess you could use the mop cupboard over there." The guard said. "But leave your wand on your chair. Call it an act of good faith on your part and we'll go stand by the door."
"Fair enough." Sasporilla smiled pulling out her wand and leaving it on the chair. With a coy smile she walked over to the utility cupboard, pulled out a roll away cart mop and bucket, and stepped inside. Closing the door gently behind them.
"Silencio" Karry cast silencing all sound past the door as she pulled off the cloak.
Sasporilla hugged her best friend.
"You brave idiot." Karry said. "Leave it to you to challenge a psycho evil Queen to save your friends."
"You'd have done the same." Sasporilla smiled.
"Well don't worry," Karry smiled. "We have a plan to save all of you! You just pretend not to have liked this outfit and distract the guards, I'll stun them and..."
"No Karry." Sasporilla said.
"What?" Karry said surprised.
"No!" Sasporilla smiled. "I'm not a prisoner per say. I'm going through with this. If you can free my friends, then great, but there is something greater at stake here. The people of Avalon are under thumb of a tyrant. An evil psycho queen as you said yourself and she is a member of my family. This is my fight and believe me, if I know my aunt she's going to make all the challenges very one sided."
"Yes." Karry said. "In her favour. Sasporilla do you expect me to stand by and do nothing?"
"Cheer me on," Sassy smiled, "I imagine Zac is here somewhere too?"
"Yes." Karry nodded a tear rolling down her cheek. "We snuck in as part of Myron's crew."
"Understand that if I fail, it's going to take stronger better people than me to stand against The Witch Queen and her Royal court of thugs." Sasporilla smiled hugging her friend. "You are so much better at everything than me. I want you to promise if I fail you'll bring a bunch from our world to stop her. Other wise I fear after she finishes fully enslaving this one she'll come for ours."
"You are so brave Sasporilla Bucket." Karry said. "My best friend, and bloody idiot."
"You'd best get that cloak back on and get back out there." Sassy said.
"Yes," Karry said slipping the cloak of invisibility back on and vanishing from site, "I’m on a strict Schedule."
Sasporilla walked out and tossed the seamstress' outfit over the back of chair.
"No I'll stick with what I have." Sassy sighed as she picked up her wand and sat down.
The Chocolate frogs were playing a version of Do the Hippogryff which meant they were in the encore and Karry had little time to return.
"Oh I love this song!" Sassy smiled. "Guard could you open the field door so I can hear it better. I promise I won't run."
The guard was gaining a lot of respect for this young woman. Everything he'd seen told him that she was a person that kept her word. Didn't lie and didn't play games. Unlike the her aunt the Witch Queen.
"Yes my Lady." He said walking up the ramp and opening the door to the stadium field. The music flooded in as Karry scurried out unseen and ran across the field back to the stage before the band finished its set.
Zac stood back stage holding Myron's towel and bottle of water as Karry rushed up beside him.
"Did you find her?" Zac asked.
"Yes." Karry smiled taking the bottle of water from him and casting a chilling spell as the band left the stage amidst the cheers of the fans.
"Did you rescue her?" Zac asked.
"No." Karry smiled handing Myron his water.
The pair were silent as they followed along until they got into Myron's dressing room.
"What do you mean you didn't rescue her?"
Zac asked. "What went wrong?"
"Sasporilla went wrong." Karry said. "She insists on going through with this."
"Is she mad?" Myron yelled! "To go through with this is suicide."
"She feels it's her responsibility to protect people." Karry said.
"That's our Sasporilla." Myron said. "Just like her mom. Taking care of everyone else over her bloody self!"
The Avalon Angel's Spharx stadium sat just over one hundred thousand witches and wizards. It's giant circular white marble walls stood as a symbol of sports excellence. Second only to that of the Royal Avalon Crowns Quidditch Stadium, which sat close to a million fans, but was far to good for an upstart such as Sasporilla Bucket.
Owls had been sent throughout the entire known worlds. Private invitations from the Witch Queen herself to come and witness the spectacle. The once in a life time show that promised not to disappoint. A special concert by the Chocolate Frogs plus other musical acts! Demonstrations of skill by the Royal Guard show division and the piece de resistance, the failure of Sasporilla Bucket to achieve her trials of Witch Queen.
The bright red screen read AVN as the deep easily recognizable voice of award winning actor Horace Brogthrotle said "THIS IS AVN!"
The music swelled as the new AVN theme song for the Witch Queen Trials lead the new intro graphics onto the screen. The very monotone blue screen with a picture of Sassy hanging her head read "The Witch Queen Trial of Sasporilla Bucket" in an almost accusatory way.
The Graphic faded to the faces of James MacNare and Morgana Moonshadow who stood together in the press box in the empty stadium.
"Hello viewers." Morgan Moonshadow smiled like the cat who swallowed the entire bird cage. "We are moments away from the opening of stadium. The guests of our glorious most honourable and generous Witch Queen will begin to arrive any moment now! Our own James MacNare will be covering the Red Carpet arrivals! You'd better get down there James!"
"Indeed I shall!" James MacNare said apperating onto the red carpet as the main gates to the stadium opened. Large torches in the shape of wands sparked and burst alight! Royal guard marched out through the gate. Formal gold armour was the uniform of the day with full ground length capes, helmets with gold mask fronts. Each carried a sword, a spear, a 6 foot trumpet and of course a wand. They lined the red carpet between the road way and the gate creating a living wall of protection for the Witch Queens Guests to enter the stadium safely.
"As you can see the Royal guard is in full regalia for the event." James MacNare smiled as they raised their trumpets and blew an announcement as the first stretch vehicle pulled up. "And the first Royal guest has arrived!"
A royal footman stepped up to the side of the long stretch vehicle and opened the door. The Witch Queen herself, wearing a most magnificent ivory coloured gown, stepped out onto the red carpet followed by the Warlock King in a finely tailored Black tuxedo.
"Your Highness." James MacNare bowed as she approached smiling. "May I ask who designed that lovely gown?"
"This is of my own design James." Bougainvillea smiled humbly to the camera's. "My personal seamstress does the rest of course. She is just a miracle worker with a needle and thread!"
"Yes she cewtenwee is!" The Warlock King smiled. "Why she could make an O'd pototato wook wike a movie staw!!!"
The smile quickly left the Witch Queens face as they moved on past. The camera did not follow the Royal couple but the mic picked up the Warlock Kings "Ouch", "OOCH,", "OUCH!" Despite James MacNare's uncomfortably trying to talk over them.
"Oh my yes what a wonderful insite into the design talents of the Witch Queen."
"I'm sowwy! No I didn't mean you wooked wike a potato!!!!"
"Back to you Morgana!" James MacNare smiled nervously.
*******
Sasporilla Bucket watched the event unfolding from the small holding area set-up inside the stadiums lavish visiting team locker room. Despite the plush couch and chairs, the Live Wire and buffet provided, it was still very much a prison. Royal Guards stood front at front and back entrances to make sure the young witch made no attempt at escape. Not that there was much point. The wards and spells to keep her locked in were probably none existent! The Witch Queen would like nothing more than for Sasporilla Bucket to run for the hills! A coward, to afraid to back up her convictions and try to save her friends.
The royal seamstress had created several spectacular outfits for Sassy to wear during the trials. Many jumpsuits that would allow for maximum movement and freedom, while reflecting style worthy of that of a child of nobility. Even if she were an upstart niece daring to challenge.
"Have you decided on an outfit yet miss?" The seamstress asked.
"The purple pants and shirt with my cloak that I was brought in with will suit me just fine." Sasporilla said.
"The cloak is of average quality st best miss but the clothes?" The seamstress questioned. "They're MUGGLE made clothes."
"Yes they are!" Sasporilla smiled. "And I'll wear them proudly, if someone will bring them to me?"
"Right away miss." The royal seamstress said.
Guests began to apperate in droves on the red carpet as more and more vehicle arrive carrying very important guests. Politicians, entertainers, important wizards and witches
From every world spilled in.
The oddest of which chose neither to apperate nor take any form of vehicle but to walk from where he had been staying. A frog the size of a small house elf, dressed in very simple white robes, carrying a bag and a flute stepped onto the red carpet accompanied by Professor Splatterpalette dressed in a beautiful Rainbow gown and Professor Phenix dressed in a gown of Red flame.
"Oh my!" James MacNare said waving his camera to follow him as he approached. "As you can see we are graced with the his grace, the holiest of holies, the Frogai Lama. The magi monk made famous in story & song!"
"Greetings kind soul," the Frogai Lama said, "blessings on you and peace on your Witch Queen."
"You were invited to the trials?" James MacNare asked surprised.
"I was!" The Frogai Lama smiled. "I could hardly refuse to witness this! The greatest moment in Magi history!!! I brought along two good friends with me to enjoy in the festivities. This will be a wonderful experience that people will speak of for a thousand years." The Frogai Lama continued down the red carpet into the stadium leaving everyone speechless.
"Do you think everyone will still be speaking of your failure in one thousand years Sasporilla?" The Witch Queen said smiling in the doorway, her footman carrying the clothing that Sassy had requested.
"I believe that one way or the other," Sasporilla said standing, "that people will speak of those who were brave enough to stand up to a tyrant. Maybe inspire more to do the same until there are no more tyrants...EVER!"
"Brave." The Witch Queen said amused, "to the last! Get dressed. Your on soon enough. I expect you to put on a good show. You are family after all. I don't intend to kill you, straight off, but if you test me?"
Sasporilla took her clothes and walked behind a changing screen. "If I test you? You'll what? I have no illusions about what you are aunt Bougainvillea! Don't try to make it seem as if you have some compassion?"
"I don't." The Witch Queen sniffed. "However your Uncle, the Warlock King is full of it! He has begged me to give you one last chance, And I will, when the time is right. For now dress in your mugglery and get ready for your challenges. The rules for each challenge will be explained before hand."
"Making them up as you go along?" Sasporilla sighed. "Pathetic and predictable."
"Insolent whelp I should..." the Witch Queen growled drawing her wand.
"Kill me? Right here? That will look good?" Sassy said no wand in hand. "Go on you bloody coward! Kill your unarmed niece for having a sassy mouth in front of all these witnesses!"
The Witch Queen had never had anyone, in her life look at her with such intense rebellion. Sasporilla stood before her almost nose to nose, showing no fear in her young eyes. The Witch Queen saw something else she had never seen before, admiration for her opponent!
"Well played Sasporilla Bucket." The Witch Queen said putting away her wand. "Well played."
**************
The dark maintenance tunnels below the Spharx fields provided the perfect clandestine meeting place for the Witch Queen to meet with her advisors moments before the festivities were to begin. Six darkly cloaked figures, wearing masks of gold, lined up before her.
"Today my most trusted advisors, my most powerful magi, my friends." The Witch Queen smiled, "I send you into a very one sided gladiatorial combat to protect my throne. I have set up a number of tasks that will give you ample opportunities to exterminate this fly buzzing around my crown!"
Laughter was low but sincere. The vicious bunch of wizard and witches could not wait to get their hands on the young witch and torture her. Henimaxx Dimm the technomancer who was now more machine than man. Marie Laveau the old witch that had hidden as a beautiful young professor feeding off innocent young necromancy students at the University for decades. Gormlobim the twisted Hobgoblin who would sooner profit off the sale of his fellow fae than see to there benefit. However none was more eager to get a chance at hurting Sasporilla Bucket than Sheliza Amari. They had an old score to settle.
"In the event that you fail." The smile sliding from the witch Queens face. "Bringing shame to me publicly before multiple worlds! I, have seen to it that no matter what, Sasporilla Bucket WILL... NOT... WIN!"
*********************
"Royal Box M?" Narcissa Malfoy sniffed stepping inside following the usher. "It's a personal slight by Bougenvallia! This is all your fathers fault for our social outcast Draco!"
"Yes Mother." Draco smiled. "If only father had listened to you, perhaps he wouldn't have gotten involved with Voldemort?"
Narcissa turned to glare at her cheeky son. He had grown quite the back bone of late and wore it well, though she found it most annoying!
"Seats M01 and M02". The Usher smiled and apparated away in a swirl to attend to others.
Narcissa Malfoy's eyes brightened when she saw that they would be sharing a box with the Frogai Lama and his guests. A cat like grin spread across her face as she walked past her seat and stood before the peaceful Frog man sitting in the lotus position on his seat between his the two professors.
"It is an honour to meet you your holiness." Narcissa Malfoy nodded politely.
The Frogai Lama felt professor Phenix stiffen and placed his long thin froggy fingers on her arm to calm her. "Is it? In which way is it an honour?"
"To meet someone of your standing and prestige." Narcissa Malfoy smiled.
"I see." The Frogai Lama sighed. "You are a person of social standing and hold such things in high regard. You have not yet reached the first milestone on your journey to enlightenment. Though I sense there is that potential in you should you choose to walk the path."
Draco covered his smile with his hand politely as not to embarrass his mother any further.
"Now you young man." The Frogai Lama smiled. "You have discovered there is more to life than social standing and money. Good for you. The path is long and yours to walk. If you ever wish to stroll together for a day I shall gladly join you."
"Thank you sir." Draco Malfoy said ushering his shocked mother back to her seat as professor Splatterpalette cast a very inconspicuous silence barrier around them.
"Leave it to Bougenvallia to put a spy like Narcissa in our box." Professor Phenix said.
"Perhaps she was placed with is for her spiritual enlightenment?" The Frogai Lama said with a small smile.
Professor Splatterpalette burst into laughter. "Jeremiah, you always crack me up!"
"It's just that I've never liked any of the Black sisters." Professor Phenix said. "We have... history."
"I understand Josie." The Frogai Lama said. "However history, which is to be learned from, is as much gravel on the path you have already traveled. To continue to walk on it gets you no where. To carry it with you, weighs you down."
"You're right of course Jeremiah." Professor Phenix smiled letting go. "Thank you."
"Thank you Josie." The Frogai Lama said. "For walking the path of betterment and truth."
"And what path do I walk Jeremiah?" Professor Splatterpalette asked.
"Dina my friend your path is one of truth so unique no one else could walk it!" The Frogai Lama patted her arm. "A soul so full of love and life, creativity and fierce loyalty to those worthy. I fear this world will lose you after this life. Your path is a complete one. You know what is important and are ready and worthy to move on... unless you choose to hang out and have fun. I could see you choosing to do that. As other old souls choose to stay behind and defend the world from the most despicable evils."
"Thank you Jeremiah." Professor Splatterpalette said, tears welling in her eyes.
The royal guards blew their trumpets, signaling the start of the tournament.
The Witch Queen and Warlock King stepped onto the royal balcony box hand in hand waving to the thunderous applause of the padded crowd. The Witch Queen drew her wand and cast the amplifying charm SONORUS. Placing the wand to her neck she smiled and began to speak.
"Welcome my guests." The Witch Queen said as she looked around the crowd almost lovingly. "It seems like it was only yesterday that we were gathered here to witness the right of passage which is a Witch Queen trial. That which comes when an old queen passes away and all of the young witches of Nobel birth are gathered to test their talents in games against each other. The best of whom will be crowned the new Witch Queen. I was the last Nobel girl to be chosen."
There was a wonderful round of applause as the witch Queen held up her hand feigning humility.
"Alas, the days of patience and decency are over." The Witch Queen sighed. "My good name besmirched by my actions in those trials. Did I do whatever it took to win? Yes, as I do what ever it takes to make things happen for Avalon! That is what a real Witch Queen does!!!"
The crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Narcissa Malfoy standing and clapping loudly. Draco tried not to let his disgust and disdain show.
"Draco!" Narcissa insisted. "Stand up and show some respect!"
"Yes mother." Draco said standing and silently clapping.
The Professors sat silently along with the Frogai Lama who enjoyed a bite of popcorn.
"I stand before you today, my throne CHALLENGED by my niece!"
Boo's filled the stadium. The Witch Queen held up her hand to silence them.
"Now, now." The Witch Queen said. "She is my niece after all. However there are no other girls of Nobel standing to compete against her in the challenge trials. So I have hand picked some of my Royal Guard and my most trusted advisors..."
A hatch in the stadium floor slid open and twelve cloaked figures levitated up on a platform that snapped into place. The twelve champions raised their wands in salute.
"... witches and wizards of magi society may I present to you my champions! Those whom I have tasked to test my challenger to her most extreme abilities! And perhaps and step farther. For that is what it means to be a Witch Queen!"
Thunderous applause echoed the crowds approval of the Witch Queens choice.
"But before we begin the trials I have arranged for you some entertainment." The Witch Queen said motioning to the stage which rose from the depths of center field. "My guests please welcome by Royal Command, The Chocolate Frogs."
"Hello Av-a-lon!!!!" Myron Wagtail screamed into the mic as the music began to swell. "Are you ready Avalon? Shake shake it, ya ya!"
Karry and Zac, dressed in coveralls moved around some random boxes back stage.
"Oy!" Principal Freemance, a rather up tight old man but one of the best back stage managers in the business, called out, "who are you two?"
"Mr.Wagtail's personal roadie’s sir." Zac said showing his badge. "He wanted these boxes cleared and his rest station made ready for during Mr.Manxx's solo."
"Oh yes." Freemance snipped. "I remember Wagtail saying something about you. Well be quick about it. Stay out of the way of the regular workings and for goodness sakes keep it professional!"
"Yes sir." Karry nodded getting right back to work.
Once they were sure all eyes were off of them Karry and Zac ducked into a small broom cupboard and locked the door behind them.
"Ok." Karry said as she stripped off the coveralls revealing her normal clothes beneath. Reaching deep into her bag she pulled out a bluish/purplish cloak.
"I'm glad Harry lent that to you." Zac smiled.
"It took a bit of arm twisting." Karry said throwing the cloak over her shoulders and watching her body disappear. "But Ginny plead our case for us."
"So you know the plan?" Zac asked.
"I go look around for Sasporilla and get her out of here." Karry smiled. "And I have until the ENCORE to look."
"That's right." Zac said. "Once they start playing Do the Hippogriff..."
"I have to get back and into my coveralls by the time Timpany Munchausen plays Black Magic Woman." Karry said kissing her husband and throwing the cloak over her head. "I know."
"It's a good thing they each chose to play one song each from their old bands for the fans." Zac said opening the door to allow Karry to slip away unseen. "It will give you enough time, hopefully."
The music rang through the stadium, lulling and exciting the crowd. It permeated down into even the deepest of tunnels beneath the structure. Karry moved as Quickly as she dared past guards and around officials moving through on dubious duties for the Witch Queen. She turned one corner and came face to gigantic back end with an Erumpant.
A very angry woman dressed in khaki shorts and blue robes, with shoulder length blue hair yelled at two Royal Guards .
"Where am I going?" Professor Hannah yelled! "I am taking my bloody Erumpant, that you came and took from my bloody zoo along with s bunch of other of my beasts, without as much as a bloody BY YOUR LEAVE or MOTHER BLOODY MAY I, DID YOU??? You just came and took them!!!"
"By Royal command!" The guard said holding the Erumpants tether. "This beast belongs to the Witch Queen!"
"This Beast has a name!" Professor Hanna yelled. "Her name is Dolly and she is with child!!! She is in no state to do any task for your Witch Queens idiot games. Now let her go or I'll have her ram her horn right up your...."
"Ok, ok... "the guard capitulated. "We'll need some sort of replacement."
"I'll supply you something appropriate." Professor Hannah smiled. "Why just show your games keeper to me and I'll work everything out."
It was nearing the end of the Chocolate Frogs normal set when Karry found where Sasporilla was being held. The room was heavily guarded but easy enough to sneak into wearing Harry Potter's invisibility cloak. Sasporilla sat in a chair, her eyes closed, her mind fixed on the tasks at hand.
"Sassy." Karry whispered in her ear.
Sasporilla's eyes shot open but it took every bit self control not to jump.
"Sasporilla it's me Karry. I'm here to rescue you."
Sasporilla stood up and walked over to the outfit the Witch Queen's seamstress had designed for her. She picked it up with a look of reconsideration.
"Could I ask everyone to just step out side while I try on the outfit by the Queen's seamstress." Sassy asked politely.
"We're not letting you out of our sights!" The Guard said.
"I'm just asking for some privacy so I might try this on?" Sasporilla said.
"What's wrong with the dressing bind?" The guard asked.
"It's not private enough." Sasporilla said. "Not with all the snitch cams and eyes everywhere?"
"I guess you could use the mop cupboard over there." The guard said. "But leave your wand on your chair. Call it an act of good faith on your part and we'll go stand by the door."
"Fair enough." Sasporilla smiled pulling out her wand and leaving it on the chair. With a coy smile she walked over to the utility cupboard, pulled out a roll away cart mop and bucket, and stepped inside. Closing the door gently behind them.
"Silencio" Karry cast silencing all sound past the door as she pulled off the cloak.
Sasporilla hugged her best friend.
"You brave idiot." Karry said. "Leave it to you to challenge a psycho evil Queen to save your friends."
"You'd have done the same." Sasporilla smiled.
"Well don't worry," Karry smiled. "We have a plan to save all of you! You just pretend not to have liked this outfit and distract the guards, I'll stun them and..."
"No Karry." Sasporilla said.
"What?" Karry said surprised.
"No!" Sasporilla smiled. "I'm not a prisoner per say. I'm going through with this. If you can free my friends, then great, but there is something greater at stake here. The people of Avalon are under thumb of a tyrant. An evil psycho queen as you said yourself and she is a member of my family. This is my fight and believe me, if I know my aunt she's going to make all the challenges very one sided."
"Yes." Karry said. "In her favour. Sasporilla do you expect me to stand by and do nothing?"
"Cheer me on," Sassy smiled, "I imagine Zac is here somewhere too?"
"Yes." Karry nodded a tear rolling down her cheek. "We snuck in as part of Myron's crew."
"Understand that if I fail, it's going to take stronger better people than me to stand against The Witch Queen and her Royal court of thugs." Sasporilla smiled hugging her friend. "You are so much better at everything than me. I want you to promise if I fail you'll bring a bunch from our world to stop her. Other wise I fear after she finishes fully enslaving this one she'll come for ours."
"You are so brave Sasporilla Bucket." Karry said. "My best friend, and bloody idiot."
"You'd best get that cloak back on and get back out there." Sassy said.
"Yes," Karry said slipping the cloak of invisibility back on and vanishing from site, "I’m on a strict Schedule."
Sasporilla walked out and tossed the seamstress' outfit over the back of chair.
"No I'll stick with what I have." Sassy sighed as she picked up her wand and sat down.
The Chocolate frogs were playing a version of Do the Hippogryff which meant they were in the encore and Karry had little time to return.
"Oh I love this song!" Sassy smiled. "Guard could you open the field door so I can hear it better. I promise I won't run."
The guard was gaining a lot of respect for this young woman. Everything he'd seen told him that she was a person that kept her word. Didn't lie and didn't play games. Unlike the her aunt the Witch Queen.
"Yes my Lady." He said walking up the ramp and opening the door to the stadium field. The music flooded in as Karry scurried out unseen and ran across the field back to the stage before the band finished its set.
Zac stood back stage holding Myron's towel and bottle of water as Karry rushed up beside him.
"Did you find her?" Zac asked.
"Yes." Karry smiled taking the bottle of water from him and casting a chilling spell as the band left the stage amidst the cheers of the fans.
"Did you rescue her?" Zac asked.
"No." Karry smiled handing Myron his water.
The pair were silent as they followed along until they got into Myron's dressing room.
"What do you mean you didn't rescue her?"
Zac asked. "What went wrong?"
"Sasporilla went wrong." Karry said. "She insists on going through with this."
"Is she mad?" Myron yelled! "To go through with this is suicide."
"She feels it's her responsibility to protect people." Karry said.
"That's our Sasporilla." Myron said. "Just like her mom. Taking care of everyone else over her bloody self!"
PLEASE REMEMBER
I am in no way affiliated with Warner Bros. or with J.K.Rowling. My work is purely that of fan fiction & do not ask for, nor accept money, gifts or other compensation for my work. If you really feel you must do something, donate to J.K.Rowling's charitable foundation LUMOS! Link below! ( https://www.wearelumos.org/ )
I am in no way affiliated with Warner Bros. or with J.K.Rowling. My work is purely that of fan fiction & do not ask for, nor accept money, gifts or other compensation for my work. If you really feel you must do something, donate to J.K.Rowling's charitable foundation LUMOS! Link below! ( https://www.wearelumos.org/ )