January 4th, 1890 — Headquarters of the London Society for the Practice of Combative Magic

Mr. Belby, in Nik's experience, had not proved the most gifted spellcaster, but the professor was pleased to see the young lad make the effort. He explained to both students the rules of the tournament before directing the Ravenclaw to begin.

Archer Belby Sisse Thompsett
You have 72 hours to post, Finn!

  

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— set by soph! —

Why was he doing this? Whomever had signed him up had clearly made some sort of mistake. He was not even a remotely accomplished dueler. While he did well with his spellwork in private, under pressure was a complete other story. However, he knew he couldn't back out. He'd be laughed at either way, but, at least he would have a chance to save some face if he took part in the competition.

By the time it was his turn to join the duel, the young Belby was trembling. Why were so many people watching? He bowed to Sisse, but didn't make eye contact, too fixated on trying not to barf on her shoes.

"L...Locomotor Mortis!" he practically shouted, sputtering out the leg locker jinx much more forcefully than he intended. His wand hand shakily jerked through the movements.

  

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MJ is the best!

While Sisse loved dueling her family was less excited to see her take place in the tournament. Her mother stood on the side lines with her father, lips pursed in her polite look of disapproval. Sisse wanted to prove this was a good thing for her, simply additional practice of her schoolwork. Besides, her mother could see all of her friends who were also participating.

She smiled at Mr. Belby but he wouldn't meet her gaze. Indeed he seemed utterly terrified.

"Protego." Sisse cast in response, grateful they had just covered shield charms in DADA before break.

  

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Thank you Bee <3 Your magic has made Sisse bloom

The Gryffindor made dispelling the boy's spell look quite easy with a simple, but effective, shield charm.

"Point Thompsett," Nikolai announced. "Miss Thompsett, if you would?"

BELBY 4.5 | THOMPSET 7
Sisse Thompsett Archer Belby
You have 72 hours to post, Fallin!

  

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— set by soph! —

Sisse was quite proud of her charm, especially with her professor judging the match. She smiled sympathetically at Mr. Belby as the outcome was stated.

"Flipendo." Sisse cast confidently.

  

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Thank you Bee <3 Your magic has made Sisse bloom

Archer didn't seem all that disappointed he had lost the round. In fact, he shot Sissie a rather relieved smile. A weak spell was better than disaster.

"F-Finite Incantatem," he stuttered in response.

  

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MJ is the best!

Alas, poor Belby; the outcome was altogether predictable.

"Congratulations to our winner, Miss Thompsett," the professor announced. The Ravenclaw would need to gain more confidence if he expected to compete again.

THOMPSETT 6 | BELBY 4.5
Sisse Thompsett Archer Belby

  

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— set by soph! —