And so it begins

*Narrator pov*

Time moved swiftly for the students and professors of Hogwarts, soon the very first duel was beginning,

Albus Dumbledore stood outside of the castle with Professor Abara, Yowie, and Morpheus at his side. The chosen duelist representing the whole of Hogwarts stood in front eager and nervous about their upcoming escapade into the world of magical dueling.

Behind Albus stood a group of magical carriages awaiting Hogwarts students and staff to begin their journey. The centerpiece is a grand carriage, intricately adorned with silver and gold filigree. Its size surpasses the others, featuring elegant stained glass windows depicting scenes from magical history.

This majestic carriage, pulled by a team of Thestrals with silken harnesses, exudes an aura of mystery. The ebony-winged creatures move with an otherworldly grace, their presence both eerie and captivating. The carriage itself is enchanted to provide a spacious and comfortable interior, furnished with plush velvet seats and softly glowing lanterns.

"Students, today marks an important day for Hogwarts as we will be taking part in a duel against Durmstrang. I have but one wish, for you all to perform to your fullest and gain experience. Many don't expect us to win because the dueling club was just formed but, I along with your professors and every student in the castle believe you can win!" Albus finished his speech loudly his voice enhanced by magic echoing throughout the courtyard

The students cheered, now less nervous than before and more excited than ever.

They filed into the carriages, the professors and Albus entering the grand one in the center.

As the Thestrals take flight, the carriages move seamlessly through the air, guided by the silent commands of the magical driver. The journey becomes a magical experience, with the passengers surrounded by the ethereal glow of their winged escorts. The rhythmic beat of the Thestral wings creates an enchanting symphony, turning the journey to another magical school into an adventure like no other.

***

Approaching the castle the carriages began their descent, the thestrals carefully guiding the students to their destination.

Exiting the carriages the students were assaulted by the deep chill permeating the air. Albus flicked his hand and instantly the students felt the chill wash away being replaced by a soft gentle warmth.

"Albus, glad you could make it!" the booming voice of the headmaster of Durmstrang could be heard

Albus smiled lightly it was a different smile than what he showed students and faculty, "Ivan, thank you for inviting us I'm excited to see the fruits of my student's labor," yes his smile was definitely forced

As they talked the students had an opportunity to look around, the castle was surrounded by the sea, and harsh waves crashed against the base of the medium Island.

Morpheus looked around a small smile playing on his lips, he knew today was going to be interesting.

Soon they were led by the headmaster to the place of the duel.

The dueling platform at Durmstrang stands boldly against the backdrop of the frigid landscape, hewn from solid, gray stone that seems impervious to the biting cold. Elevated slightly above the ground, it exudes an imposing aura evident of the many duels fought atop the very platform.

The platform is circular, with a diameter large enough to accommodate intense magical duels. The surface, though frost-kissed, remains firm and unyielding. Pillars at regular intervals surround the perimeter, each adorned with ice-resistant sconces casting a dim, mystical light to pierce the winter gloom.

Students brave the cold winds as they step onto the platform, their breath visible in the crisp air. The stone beneath their feet feels cool but not uncomfortably so, as if absorbing the strength of the cold. The circular design ensures an equal and unobstructed view for all observers, while the distant sea made for an ominous backdrop.

Ivan stood at the top of the viewing area along with Albus and the professors. The Durmstrang students sat in the audience waiting for the battle to begin.

Ivan began the opening portion of the duel, "Today marks the beginning of another dueling season, this time we have a special guest the newly created Hogwarts dueling team! As their first match in this dueling circuit let's give them a warm welcome!" a thundering cheer boomed from the crowd passion filled the air as the students prepared to battle

Suddenly everything felt very real to the Hogwarts students.

"To begin we will have our third-year students duel, the first duel is our very own Vladimir Kuznetsov versus Hogwarts Evan Rosier!" As the announcement sounded the two students being called stepped up to the platform

Evan Rosier breathed rhythmically steadying his nerves, his wand playing in his hand. His opponent stood calm and collected a fire of passion lit in his eyes.

Evan's eyes narrowed with determination as he cast the first spell, sending a streak of silver light toward Vladimir. Swiftly, Vladimir deflected it with a precise counter-curse, the magical clash echoing across the stone platform. The cold winds carried whispers of incantations as the duel intensified.

Vladimir retaliated with a burst of ice, summoning frosty tendrils that snaked towards Evan. Skillfully, Evan conjured a shield of shimmering energy, deflecting the icy assault. The dueling platform became a dance of magical prowess, each wizard showcasing their school's unique teachings.

Evan, drawing from Hogwarts' diverse curriculum and his self study, unleashed a mesmerizing display of charms and hexes. Meanwhile, Vladimir, rooted in Durmstrang's disciplined approach, countered with powerful transfigurations and precision-based spells. The air filled with a kaleidoscope of colors and shimmering energies.

Vladimir, with an air of unyielding determination, unleashed a continuous barrage of spells, each one carrying the momentum of the last.

Evan, agile and quick-witted, deftly dodged and countered, his wand dancing through the frosty air. Vladimir's spells were a symphony of power and precision, never letting up.

Vladimir's incantations resonated like thunder, echoing off the stone pillars as he barraged Evans with spells.

Gritting his teeth Evans made his decision, "Repello, repello," His soft words seemed to thunder across the platform as Vladimir began to be assaulted by his own spells

"STUPEFY!" Vladimir yelled, "Repello," he heard in soft response

Suddenly Vladimir's own spell was hurling back at him.

Not expecting for something like this to happen he stumbled to find a solution, his concentration lapsed, and Evan's capitalized on that.

"Expelliarmus" Evan's incanted

Vladimir caught flat footed could only watch as his own wand flew from his grasp.

"I lost? He mumbled

"RAHHH!" The crowd of Hogwarts students/duelers went crazy while the Durmstrang students went silent

"Evan Rosier wins" the Judge's voice sounded

Hogwarts took the first round.

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A/N: Patre on : patreon.com/Boogie324 (about 27 chapters ahead)