Level Five: Receiving Your Wand

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Subject: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Aug 07 2007, 07:02

Level Five: Receiving Your Wand

Writing in first person, describe the day you purchase your wand. Make sure you describe your feelings upon waiting and then receiving your wand. Let us know where you will be purchasing your wand from - will it be Ollivander in Diagon Alley, Gregorovitch in Bulgaria or perhaps a wandmaker of your own invention.

To pass this level, you will need to describe the entire experience - the leading up to receiving your wand, the actual receiving of it, and the aftermath.

The essay must be at least 500 words long.

Pass mark: A score of 70 or more. Essays in fewer than 500 words will fail. If you fail, you are able to retake the test.

NO COPYING OTHERS ESSAYS - YOU WILL FAIL!

Housepoints:

Score of 0-69: fail – 0 housepoints
Score of 70-80: pass – 100 housepoints
Score of 81-90: pass – 150 housepoints
Score of 90-100:pass – 300 housepoints

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Aug 28 2007, 17:43

Today is the day I’ve been waiting for,the most important day for me is today.Right now I will go to receive my wand,I cannot believe that this is the moment that I will go to get it.I get on my broom and think where to go to buy my wand,should I go to Ollivander in Diagon Alley or Gregorovitch in Bulgaria?i kept thinking for 10 minutes because it is very important buying a wound because the wand will be with me all the time so it has to be the best wand.And finally I decided to go to Olivander in Diagon Alley because a lot of famous wizards and witches got their wands from there so it has to be the best place for wands.So I went with my broom to Diagon Alley,when I got there I saw a lot of people there in Olivander shop, I tried to go in but there was a lot of people,so I had no choise but to wait until these people finish getting their wands.I stayed out there for like an hour and I was so happy and excited but at the same time very angry.I was happy and excited because I was going to get my wand and the shop was right in front of me and I know that my life is going to totally change after I get my wand,I was angry because I couldnt wait to see my wand and these people were not finishing.So I kept waiting,after 10 min 2 boys came out with their 2 wands and that made me angrier but at the same time it made me happier because I saw that their wands looked so wonderfull,and I knew it is worth waiting for,then I saw 2 girls and a boy coming out with their wands too and looked very happy.After another hour there was only 1 girl left inside,so I went in.Inside the Olivander shop I saw it looked like a library a little but instead of books there were wands in their boxes all over the place,and the girl received her wand it was ash wood with a phoenix tail feather,and also like all the other people I saw she was very happy with her wand,then she left.When I realized it was my turn my heart kept beating so fast and so hard like drums,and when Mr Olivander looked at me I was so shy and my face color turned to red,I could speak hardly and told him I came to buy a wand for me,he told me of course you came to buy a wand,and then said let me see which wand is going to suit you,and he went inside to look for a wand for me,at this time I kept thinking what my wand will look like is it going to be light or dark?and what kind of wood will it be made of?and what will be the core of the wand?
And then I heard mr Olivander saying I think this wand is going to be good with you,I looked at the wand it looked great,so I held it,then he told me lets see if it is going to suit you,then I tried to do something with it I tried to give it a wave and then the glass of the door broke with a very loud noise.Then he said no I think this is not the one for you,and he goes inside again,and came out with another wand and told me I am sure this one is going to suit you,and when he opened the box I looked at the wand and said this is so beautiful,because it really was,it was not very light and not very dark and it was a lot more wonderful than the first one.When I held the wand a light came down on me I don’t know from where but I felt that this wand was mine.And then mr Olivander told me this is your wand now,this wand wood is Walnut and its core is a Unicorn Tail Hair,use it well.And I was like finding a treasure or something,I was very happy and I kept jumping from happiness,then I took the wand and put it carefully in the box and thanked mr Olivander,then I got out of the shop.I couldn’t believe it,I opened the box and looked at the wand and decided to try doing something with it right now because I couldn’t wait to use it.So I casted Lumos and saw a light on the top of the wand,then I said Nox and the light is gone.I was really so happy and I told myself that now that I have the wand I will never leave it and I will never go anywhere without it.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Aug 28 2007, 18:03

Well done for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Oct 02 2007, 20:25

Oct 2
Dear Diary,

Today I got my very very own wand at Duekfeishma's Magical Wand Store in France. Here's what happened:

I woke up bright and early and even without breakfast; I proceeded to drag my mum out of bed so she could take me to the wand shop. She was about to yell at me but then I gave her my best puppy dog pout with the watery eyes and everything - knowing she always gives in if I do so.

Finally after my mum's nagging to at least eat breakfast first (and me ignoring her) we arrived at the wand shop. The shop was a small squat building that looked like it was going to fall apart any second and above a creaky old sign with the golden letters: Duekfeishma followed by a cheesy looking kid waving a wand. Duekfeishma's wand (as I am told) are the best in all of England except for one thing, sometimes when people try to find his shop, it disappears! But that didn't bother me since I was very excited

Pushing open the wooden door, it creaked as a forlorn bell chimed above. Mum looked nervous and I didn't blame her, it seemed like the building was deserted, nothing was insight. Mum was about to pull me out when I spotted a piece of dusty foil tucked between the wooden floorboards. Squatting on the ground, I ignored my mum's cries of ruining my new pants and with a final pull, the foil came free.

It seemed like I was in a different world then. Just when the foil was in my hand, the wooden floorboards became a plush carpet and the yellow peeling wallpaper became like new painted walls with rows and rows of shelves lining with boxes and boxes of wands. Straightening myself up, I brushed my clothes and looked around. I realize I was standing in front of a wide desk. The desk seemed to be made out of Ash tree and was so shiny I could see my reflection perfectly in it.

The strange thing was that the desk was empty – except for a single slip of paper and a small hand bell. Bending closely to the small note to see the scrawled handwriting I read: please ring the bell. I reached out for the wooden handle of the bell and was about to ring it when my mum pulled me back. She hissed at me “What are you doing? Come on Dragon, this placed is deserted; let’s go to Ollivander’s store.

Frowning at her, I waved my left hand which was clutching the bell, ringing it while I gestured confusingly at my mum. “You mean you can’t see this bell and the carpet?” She seemed to smile at that which made me more confused “Okay, fine – just stay in here and play your game, I’m going across the street to Leizona to eat breakfast, when you feel like coming out of this fantasy of yours, come out and eat then we’ll go find Ollivander’s. And with that she left the store muttering about how Ollivander’s was much reliable since she had bought her own wand there.

I was just staring there gaping at her when I felt a tap on my shoulder. “Ms Dragon?” Whirling around, I found myself staring down at a pudgy man. “Duekfeishma at your service miss” he said shaking my hand with a grip unlike his height.

“Er, hello – I’m here to get my wand…” I said confused that he knew my name

“Yes, of course, let me see your foil” He said his chubby hand outreached. It was then I realize I was still holding the foil that I had found on the floor earlier and the hand bell was gone.

“Er, here you go” I said as I noticed there was some writing on it.

Duekfeishma took the foil with a flourish and squinted at it. “Ah, Dragon Elddir: Phoenix feather – quite an exotic core.” He then rubbed his old pudgy hands on the desk (which the bell that magically returned onto for some reason) “Ah, wand wood is Ash” he pronounced as he scurried to the shelves, muttering to himself.

By now, I’ve realized that the foil must have ‘chosen’ the wand wood when I touched it (I mean the foil) and the table was like that too – later on my hypothesis was confirmed

“Ah, here you go dear” he said now clutching a box he whirled around so quickly he almost lost his balance. He handed me the box and nodded for me to open it. When I reached for it, I felt warm pleasant tingle and the wand spot yellow sparks out of it. Duekfeishma grinned at me “Congratulations!” he cried holding out his hand again. It took me a few seconds to realize he wanted me to pay him

Blushing, I handed him the money from my pocket “Thank you sir” I said as I slid my wand into one of my deep pockets (the box disappeared after that)

He waved as I walked out the door “No, thank you ” he said. As the door swung shut, I saw that the store was turning into an old abandon shack again.

As the door clang shut behind me I gave a loud whoop in happiness and ran towards Leizona where my mom was seated waiting for me “Honey, how about we just go to Ollivanders and I’ll buy you something to eat there?” she said patting my head with a sympathetic look

Brushing her hand away I grinned at her “No, it’s okay, I already have a wand” It was then I pulled out my phoenix feather core with ash wood Wand. I can never forget the look on mum’s face

-Love Dragon

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Fri Oct 05 2007, 00:04

Today is the day I purchase my wand, it was hard for me to sleep last night, the anticipation growing inside. It's not everyday a wizard gets to go into Diagon Alley and enter Ollivanders for the very first time. I was a bit tired when I first woke this morning, the morning light of the sun shining through the veil my curtains produced as they were closed over the window. The transparent rays illuminating the room vaguely. A big yawn escaped as I rolled out of bed and made my way down stairs and into the kitchen. I was eager to get going but first, I had to have a hearty breakfast. I had to do it by hand, but after today, that will be no more. Frying up some bacon and eggs and fixing some toast I couldn't stop thinking about how much easier this part of life will be after I recieve my wand. With a wave I could instantly have my food, or have the utensils automatically fix me a hot meal. But eventually my breakfast was ready and as I sat at the table eating I browsed through todays Daily Prophet. Of course checking out who had won the quidditch game, making sure to take note in collecting my twenty galleons from my friend as he had lost the bet we had made on the previous nights game. Before I even realized my food had been eaten, I must have inhaled the bloody meal. Afterwards I had a quick shower making sure I was fresh smelling and clean, not wanting my wand to smell my day old hand as I would hold it for the first time. After all one wouldn't want to make a bad first impression to such an important tool for us witches and wizards. After the quick and refreshing shower I bounced around like a five year old on a chocolate frog high, I was eager to get to Diagon Alley and finally purchase my wand. Quickly and without much effort I threw on a pair of old jeans and an old white t-shirt that read "I Charm Witches" in scratchy handwriting. Slipping on my white sneakers I grabbed my jacket and made straight for The Leaky Cauldron.

I decided to take what the muggles call a taxi to the Leaky Cauldron, giving myself more time to enjoy the cool fall day, and calm my nerves before entering Ollivanders. But it seemed impossible to do, all I could think about was feeling the wood of my wand in my hand as it binds itself to me. My mind was unable to draw from that thought. The cab ride was short but in the fifteen minutes it took it had felt like an eternity before I had arrived in front of the Leaky Cauldron. Stepping inside of the tavern I took in the familiar sights and sounds as the patrons bustled about, minding their own business and engaging one another in conversation. It felt good to be around others that had my abilities, to be able to cast magic. I then decided to have a nice mug of firewhiskey before venturing into the hidden Diagon Alley, maybe this would calm my nerves a bit, quell the excitement, and soothe the anticipation. It helped, if only a bit, and then out of the corner of my eye I saw my friend Jared Wittleworth, the very guy who owed me twenty galleons. The git was trying to evade me, but I caught the man! I gingerly slid off of the stool I was sitting on at the bar and made my way over to his table smiling as wide as one can, here I was, winning a bet and collecting on it and just mere moments away from getting the essential tool I need for magic. After engaging him in friendly conversation and declaring my victory to all that would listen I shook my friend Jared's hand, paid for my drink, and made my way out the back and into Diagon Alley.

Once outside and into the magical realm my eyes would marvel at all of the folk hustling and bustling about. It never ceased to amaze me that this world existed, and whats more I was part of it. I reminisced about seeing it for the very first time, and to my astonishment, this day felt like it did way back then. I soaked everything up, even the incoherent noise as the crowded streets roared with laughter and conversation. I walked, and each footstep that echoed off of the cobblestoned street crashed into my ears, my heart now pounding the walls of my chest with excitement. Each step took me closer to Ollivander's, the eccentric old wandmaker, and the very man that would grant me my own. I was halted however by the sight of a very nice and very attractive young witch. Her long locks of thick brown hair would trail down her back as deep honey brown eyes would fill my vision, one could easily get lost in them. A small grin ran the length of my lips as I slid my hands inside the pockets of my jacket making sure to make visible my cheesy shirt. I couldn't resist a moment of flirting. After my successful moment of charming my female acquaintance, I kissed the back of her hand and returned to my business heading on to recieve my wand. I let nothing else stop me, and in just minutes I stood before the entrance of the wand shop. I took one last deep breath and placed a hand onto the handle of the door and pushed, entering the store. I swallowed, a lump had formed in my throat, I couldn't understand why I was so nervous, but I was. The old man Ollivander stepped out from behind the walls of wands and smiled as if he were expecting my arrival. He was, "Bout time you showed up. I was beginning to think you weren't coming." I recall him saying to me in the greeting. I wasn't able to speak back, so I just nodded. The spry old gent then went and began rummaging through the many wands he had made and stored over the years. Handing me one every so often, and each one I held, nothing happened or made me feel any different than I already did. I must have spent an hour standing there holding different wands, and it seemed like my luck in finding one was fading...... until.

As I stood there, I was starting to get rather bored, wand after wand had passed through my grip, but old Ollivander didn't seem to care or show the slightest bit of frustration. My excitement had faded long ago, and my gaze had drifted off and lingered onto the window as I watched others waltz by. My hand stayed outstretched and when I would feel the wood being placed into my palm I would clinch only having to relinquish the item soon after. But when this certain wand was placed into my hand and my fingers wrapped around it's handle, I felt something. A sudden warmth coursed through my body, it was a poweful yet calm energy, my mind was rejuvenated as my gaze instantly tore from the store window and locked onto the wooden item now clinched in my hand. A small blue glow outlined my form as I could feel the wand choosing me as it's master. And then suddenly it had disappeared, the wand still held tightly in my grasp, me feeling its power combining with my own as I stood there holding it. I had finally found my wand. Ollivander's expression was one of excitement, and with no words spoken we both knew this wand was mine, it and myself were now one. It was a beautiful piece of wood, Ollivander had told me it was made from Cherry wood, it was deep reddish brown in color, and the sheen was magnificent. The light would reflect off of it wonderfully, it didn't seem real at first but the more I stood there the more I realized I had finally found my wand. The core consisted of Dragon Heartstring, I couldn't help but allow my excitement to rush over me, and in a moment of unexpected joy I jumped into the air and let out a shout of satisfaction, I think I may have scared poor Ollivander because he had jumped back, knocking over a wall of his wands. I then gathered myself and thanked him, paying for my wand and leaving. My mission now was to find that brown headed tart I had flirted with earlier and have nice spot of tea while wooing her with my charm.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Mon Oct 08 2007, 03:54

Well done to dragonweaver and Legendary for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your scores for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wands are now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Sat Oct 13 2007, 08:48

Today is the greatest day in the history of my life. Everything is going to start new and fresh. Knowing that today was the day to receive my first a wand. My thoughts became a bundle of excitement and a look of enjoyment flowed on my face. Surely everything will now fall into place, I thought. Yes, first my wand then Hogwarts. Blushing a bit I realized that I was talking to myself as a few muggles was staring in my direction.

I waved and continued down the street towards The Cauldron. Entering the darkened bar, I could feel the coldness of the air on my skin. I knew of course that it was just for show, rolling my eyes I continued down to the red brick wall. Tapping the right combination, the bricks formed an archway and I know it was only a matter of time before that glorious wand will be in my hand.

Entering the busy hustle of Diagon Alley, I smirked and watched the cute children playing by some owls. I remember their age I thought to myself. Surely they will eventually be standing where I am and get their first one. As I continued to walk, it wasn’t long until I found Ollivanders. I remember the first time I came here with my brothers and my parents where so proud of them. Of course so I was I, I thought. Thoughts started to circulate though my head about my parents. If only they were here I thought, but I know they were her in spirit.

Gripping the door handle tightly, I entered as the bell rang and Ollivander came around the corner.

“Heelloo”, I said as nerves started flowing through my voice.

“Why, Hello.” , said Ollivander. “I knew there would be a day that I saw you come in here Jessica.”

I smiled a bit remembering how through several years Ollivander never really changed. It was had to say how old he truly was.

“Yes, then here we go.” Ollivander pulled out a wand that was absolutely gorgeous in Jessica’s eyes.

Mumbling a bit, Ollivander explained my wand.

“Dragon Heartstring made with chestnut wood.” Ollivander passed the wand to me.

I was a bit scared and didn’t know what to do. I’ve never had this much power in my hands. I know that I dreamt of it but good god, this was truly remarkable. Gripping it tightly I didn’t know what I was suppose to do.

“Well give it a wave, child!” stated Ollivander

Flicking it very quickly, I shouted “Flores!!!” A stream of flowers started protruding from my new wand. I learn this spell from one of my brothers and thought it was absolutely adorable.

“Wonderful, wonderful.” Ollivander started dancing a bit. “For the wand choices the owner”

I smirked a bit and was very excited that I didn’t make a mistake and harm him or myself for that matter. As I thanked Ollivander I placed my wand in my cloak and continued out the door. The sun was shining and warm on my face. I knew this was the right choice and I knew that I picked the best wand from the bunch. Heading down Diagon Alley, I decided to stop by Wizarding Weasley’s and get some exploding vomit balls for my brothers. Smirking a bit a glanced down at Ollivanders and continued on my way. For this was the first glorious days of many to come, I thought to myself.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Oct 23 2007, 04:47

Well done to Herbaceoustraitorous for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your scores for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Mon Oct 29 2007, 06:13

Polly walked with her mum into diagon alley. This was so exciting she was going to receive her wand. After years of messing around with her mum and dads she was finally going to get one of her own. Rubbing her hands together she whispered to herself “Watch out Marnie.” Marnie was Polly’s enemy and she couldn’t wait to show her all the stuff she could do with her wand. Hopefully Polly wouldn’t have to put up with her too much at school. Taking a deep breath Polly inhaled the scene of Diagon Alley. After the fall of voldemort it had changed a lot. The scenery was brighter and more alive all the shops were back to their original state and no one was in fear of being dragged out of their beds. Polly remembered walking through here when voldemort had been at his rein of terror everyone bunching up into little groups all shuffling around and not looking any where. Trying to get their shopping done in the quickest possible time. Now everyone was taking it slowly stopping in the streets to talk to people they had not seen for ages as little children tugged on their parents clothes to get them to move.
A smile crept onto Polly’s face. She was finally get her wand. Today was a day she was never going to forget. One thing that did disappoint her though is that Mr Ollivander had now gone into retirement and a new wand shop had been opened. Wilma’s Wands. Polly did not know what Wilma was like but ever since she was little she had always watched Mr Ollivander bustle around the shop in his extraordinary way of choosing the wand. Her mother and father had gotten their wands from him even the legendary Harry Potter had. But never mind she told herself at least she was going to get a wand. As her mother muttered on about what stuff they had to buy and how proud she was that her little girl was growing up I raced towards the wand shop my mother lagging behind me.
“Hello dear how may I help you?” asked a small lady as I walked in. Guessing that this was Wilma I replied.
“I have come to get my first wand.” I pulled myself up to my full height feeling very grown up. Excitement coursed through my veins. I was actually going to get my wand. I was going to go to Hogwarts and learn magic. A smile was etched across my face. My eyes alight with joy.
“Yes dear, I sort of guessed that.” Her smile was smarmy and the way she acted stole away some of my excitement. Walking of she came back with a few boxes of wands. “Right stand up I need to get your measurements dear.” She said grabbing at me as she wrapped the tape measure around me jotting things down. Luckily then my mother walked in as I was starting to feel slightly nervous. Smiling weakly at her she gave an encouraging smile before taking one of the seats by the door. She then turned her attention to one of the witches magazines laid out on the table. O thanks mum. I though as she continued to flick through the magazine. She could have done that at home. This was supposed to be my big day.
Wilma then returned with a few more boxes smiling at me. The smile never reached her eyes.
“Right come on give this a wave.” She said handing me a small wand with a sort of green tinge to it. Taking hold of it I waved it around like I had been doing with my mums all morning to practise. “Hmm maybe.” She replied taking the wand and placing it to one side. “Now this one.” She handed me a thin white one this time. It looked very elegant the sort of thing my fashion mad mum would have liked. Not my taste though. Taking it loosely in my I gave it a quick wave. “O no no no. That won’t do.” She snatched the wand from my grasp and placed it to the left of her.
“This one now.” She said giving me a long fat one. It made me laugh as I took it in my hands it just didn’t feel right. Without even having to give it a wave I knew it was not the right one. But not wanting to hurt her feelings I gave it a small wave. Tutting she took that one from me and placed it to the left of her.
More and more wands got placed to her left and the small green wand that had got a maybe sat to her right. I began to get worried. What if their was not a wand for me. Mum said that I would have to find the perfect match of a wand to be able to perform to the best of my ability and this maybe wand was not exactly up to that.
Tears prickled my eyes as Wilma began to walk around the shop again looking for another wand. My mother was scowling now. Obviously bored by how long it was taking to find me a wand. People were also beginning to come into the shop and I was creating a long queue of people waiting to buy their wand.
Wilma came back with a few more boxes. She was obviously beginning to tire. “Right try this one.” She said thrusting a pink one into my hands. Inwardly I groaned. I hated pink, to me it was the worst colour every created. Waving it some little sparkles shot out the wand.
“Hmm another maybe.” She said putting it the right of her. O no I thought I would hate to have to put up with a pink wand at school I would never want to use it. If I had to choose from the maybe pile I would chose the green one defiantly. After going through the new pile of wands she had brought out and none of them being my perfect match I really began to worry then. Taking a deep breath I looked down at the two wands sat on the table to her right and the mountain of wands that were to her left.
“Wait here one second.” She said before going behind the counter and pulling out bits of paper. My mother had now left her seat and came towards me.
“Mr Ollivander would not of taken this long.” She scolded pursing her lips. As she began to open her mouth to critise some more Wilma came back with two wands from behind the counter. She gave me a smile that I knew was forced before pulling out two black wands. One of them was fatter than the other but both beautiful. She handed me the thinner one. It was long and black with a crystal at the end. It took my breath away. Waving it slightly fireworks shot out of the end of the wand. A smile broke out through my whole face. “Yes” I cried to receive a stop it this instant look from my mum.
Wilma smiled at me.
“Wood Macassar Ebony
Length 15 1/4 inches
Enchantment Essence of Serpent Scale. An excellent match if I do say so myself.” And I agreed holding the wand in my hand I stroked it carefully it was perfect. As my mother went to pay I held my wand in my hand and went “Lumos” a light flickered in the end of the wand. 100 times better than when I had tried it at home. Wanting to cry out to my mum to show her what I had done I resisted the temptation as the other customers looked ready to walk out after their long wait.
My mother placed her arm around my shoulder and after we had done all the shopping I went home to show my father the wand I had gotten. He looked extremely proud when we sat their practising spells. That day I would never forget. And I would always look after my wand. It had been one of the special made ones extremely expensive which was why it was behind the counter. My mother had complained about the price all the way home.

(I hope its okay that I put what wand I got. Its because my mum got me that wand for Christmas last year so I wanted it to be that one if its not just cut it out of the post. It would still fit in with it all.)

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Mon Nov 05 2007, 07:40

Well done for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Dec 05 2007, 12:57

12/2/2007
Dear Diary,
Today would have to be one of the best days I have ever had! My mother woke me up early this morning, and told me to get dressed. She withheld the information of where we were going though. I was tired, and cranky, but excited of the adventure I would have that day. She told me to grab somthing to eat quickly, and then we would apparate into Diagon Alley. It was then I knew what was going on. I was going to get my wand! I very quickly shoved down breakfast, just one piece of toast. My little sister thought that was odd, as I normally eat so much I feel like a fat pig! Anyays, when I was done and dressed, we stepped outside, and my mother took me by side-along apparation to the leaky cauldron. From there, we went to the back, and she took me to a brick wall. I had never been to Diagon Alley before, we normally went to other wizard shopping places. I thought this was a bit werid. Then, my mother tapped some bricks, and the wall started to move! When it was done, I was looking into one of the greatest places I had ever seen in my life! It was an alley, lined with shops that had everything any witch or wizard would need! I saw broom shops, robe shops, potion shops, everything. However, I thought, we were here for one thing and one thing only. My wand.
"Mommy, can I get my wand now?" I asked.
"Sure. Go right ahead into Ollivanders, I am going to get a few things. I will meet you there, okay?"
"Yes!" I ran into the shop, and up to the counter. A tall man with a white beard, and a wrinkly face greeted me.
"I am getting my first wand today!" I told him. I was so excited!
"Well then, this is the best place to be. Here, try this one" He said. He handed ne a wand. I took it out of its box, and waved it around. All the boxes fell off of their shelves.
"Oops." I said. I blushed. Obviously, that one was not right.
"Not to worry, I can claean that all up" He said. With just a wave of his wand, they all returned to their proper place. I couldn't wait to be able to do stuff like that! "Here, try this one"
I picked up the wand, and the most amazing thing happened. The whole room lit up, and the wand vibrated in my hand. The light seemed to radiate from the wand.
"Very well. I knew it had to be one of those combonations." Ollivander said, in a near whisper. "Willow and Dragon Heartstring, 13 Inches, not too bendy. Congratulations dearest, you are truly your mothers child!" He beamed at me. I, however, did not know what he was talking about. Curious, I decided to ask.
"What do you mean by that?" I looked at ghim. I loved my wand so much, and I couldn't wait to get out of there and pratice, but I wanted to know.
"Well, your mother Has a willow and Dragon Heartstring wand, just like you. And I know you do not know her, but..." He stopped talking. I decided to drop it. Besides, my mother was at the window, waving at me that since I had gotten my wand, It was time to go. I quickly said goodbye to Mr. Olivander, and walked out. We apparated back to the Manor, and I ran inside to show my brothers and sisters. Later, My daddy showed me how to make things float! I can not wait to get to Hogwarts, and learn all the other things my wand can do. I have got to go. My mother is calling me, I think it is dinner. Better store my wand, and go eat. I will write more Later! Bye!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Dec 19 2007, 11:15

Well done for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Fri Jan 18 2008, 21:47

I woke early in the morning. Something was exciting me, but in my sleepiness I couldn’t remember what was so special about today. Then it hit me. “My wand!’ I yelled. I had finally been approved to get it. Today was the day my parents were going to take me in to Diagon Alley to get it. I wasted no time in getting dressed. I threw some gel in my hair so it would have a slightly wild look to it. That was probably my favorite way to style my cropped hair.

I was downstairs in the kitchen in about ten minutes. My dad was already sitting at the table. “What took you so long, kiddo?” He joked. Then he got up and put the French toast he’d already started on the griddle. “How many slices do you want?”

“Four please. Is there any bacon?” As I responded I went to the cabinet and got down some plates. “Is Mom joining us for breakfast?” I added.

“I think so, go ahead and set her a place just in case.” My mother walked in as he said this.

“Morning, Momma. Did you sleep okay?” I didn’t get more than a grunt for a reply. My mother was never a morning person. She poured herself a cup of coffee and, after doctoring it up she sat in front of an empty plate.

We got through breakfast quite quickly before we all piled in the car. My parents were muggles, so they were fairly new to this whole experience. For that matter so was I. The car ride seemed to take hours, but we were in London fairly quickly. We didn’t live that far out of the city. After parking we made our way to the Leaky Cauldron. We were supposed to meet someone there who would help my parents get into Diagon Alley, since neither of them had a wand.

When we got there a giant of a man approached us. I don’t know how he knew who I was, but he came right up to me and shook my hand. “Just in time, Pamela,” he rumbled. “Name’s Hagrid. These must be yer parents?” He shook their hands in turn. He showed us through Diagon Alley. Our first stop was to get our muggle money changed. Then we made our way to the wand shop.

As I walked in, I got an eerie feeling. For some reason, the shop made me uncomfortable. I couldn’t place it, though. Then an ancient man walked up to me. He looked me up and down with misty eyes that showed no emotion and yet were full of emotion at the same time. He introduced himself as Ollivander. “I’m Pamela,” I replied. “These are my parents, John and Richelle.”

He nodded briefly to them, “Well, come on Pamela. Don’t you want your wand?” He then began a process of measuring me. I didn’t know why that was necessary, but I didn’t question the procedure. “What’s your wand hand?” He asked.

“Well, I’m right handed, mostly. There are some things that I am better with my left hand at, but I write with my right hand.” After I said that, he thrust a long stick in my hand, rattling off some description. He barely got the words out, before he’d taken it back from me. We went through this process for a while.

“Here we are. Try this one. 10 ¼ inches, holly with a phoenix tail feather. Very similar to young Potter’s.”

I didn’t know who this Potter was, nor was I overly concerned. The minute I held it in my hand I was filled with a tremendous joy. It was as if I had finally been reunited with a lost friend I had all but forgotten about. I had a sense that I could accomplish just about anything.

“I thought so. You two seem to have a fair bit in common,” Ollivander said.

I wondered how he could say that, as I hadn’t really told him anything about myself. I didn’t think I liked this Ollivander guy. Something about him rubbed me the wrong way, but I was grateful that he had found me the perfect wand. He was staring at me expectantly. I couldn’t figure out what he could possibly want. Then my dad walked up.

“Er, Pamela? Don’t you think we should pay him?” My dad said.

I shook myself, “Oh. Yeah. How much?” I handed him the galleons he requested for the wand and the care kit I wanted. “Thank you,” I said as I led my parents out the door, ready to join this new and fascinating world for real.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Mon Jan 28 2008, 05:51

Well done for completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Mar 19 2008, 21:46

I stand outside of a small storefront, staring at the doorknob. Only a foot or so away from it, I could not explain to you why it is so hard to reach out and turn it, to finally enter Ollivander’s. Maybe it is because this day is something I have awaited for years, a day that will make me a full member of the Wizarding community at last. Unlike most children getting their first wands, I stand alone. My family is currently unable to come through to Diagon Alley, what with their standings as Muggles. The door creaks open and I step back, but in the doorframe is a kindly elderly man, his white eyebrows raised.

“Are you coming in?” he asks. I have to smile at that, and nod. He returns my smile and opens the door further so that I can step inside. “Your first wand?” he asks, already disappearing into one of the rows of shelves stacked high with wands.

“Yes,” I reply, awkwardly standing in front of a small table that overlooks the shelving units. Before I have time enough to have a good look around the store, the man I take to be Mr. Ollivander is back. He takes out a wand from the box he has brought, and hands it to me. “A nice springy vine wood with a veela hair inside,” he explains. I nod and tighten my grip on the wand. Could this be it? There isn’t the sudden rush of warmth that I heard fills one when she receives her wand, but I give it a wave anyway. There is an earsplitting crack – I turn to see that I have thoroughly destroyed a grandfather clock hidden away in a corner. Ollivander hurriedly takes back the wand, and uses his own to repair the clock. I want to apologize, but he simply passes me another wand.

“Cherry and dragon heartstring,” he says hopefully. I nod again, and flick my wrist. The air fills with an odor so horrid that it can only be explained as a mixture of rotten eggs, sewage, and the fertilizer they use in Greenhouse Four. We go about finding my wand like this, with many disappointments. [Ash and phoenix feather --> blasted a hole in the ceiling; chestnut and unicorn tail hair --> gave us each a horrible cough; willow and dragon heartstring --> the table started tap-dancing, which I took as a good sign until it burst into flame; etc.] Finally, after countless tries, he gives me a wand, apparently too tired to even say what it’s made of.

For once, I like the feel of this one. It’s so smooth that it feels soft and just the right size and shape to fit comfortably in my hand. I smile, daring to hope, and give it a swooping wave. I hear a soft jingle as if a wind chime is being tossed in the breeze, and then a bright light flows forth from the tip of the wand, nearly blinding me and poor Mr. Ollivander. Thankfully, it lasts only for a moment, and I am left grinning.

“I think this’ll be the one, Mr. Ollivander,” I say, happily bounding up to the ancient cash register. He laughs, overjoyed, I suppose, because there was actually a wand in his shop that fit me. I pay, and he bids me have a good day. It is my turn to laugh as I leave, and I turn back to say that I believe it’s only going to get better.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Apr 02 2008, 03:33

I awoke early, my eyes snapping open. All I had dreamt about that night was receiving my wand, the magical piece of wood that would choose me and grant me the ability to perform charms, curses and general spells. That would come later though, for all I would be able to do is shoot sparks out of the end of it.

I left my parents in bed sleeping; they knew I would go on my own. I wanted the moment of receiving my wand to be personal and I wanted to be alone. Outside, no one was about. It was really early and I knew Ollivander’s would have opened barely
seconds ago. I set of down the street, striding into the Leaky Cauldron with a spring in my step; in a few minutes that magical piece of equipment would be mine.

In my head, I could imagine myself at Hogwarts, my black robes adorned with Slytherin’s green and silver, my wand in my pocket, ready to defend myself against anything.

The bartender tapped the bricks for me, ‘but this was the last time’ I thought happily.

The bricks had barely enough time to part before I was through, into the pretty little street of Diagon Alley, Gringotts looming ahead. A few shopkeepers were out, setting up stalls and signs. Running to Ollivander’s I wrenched open the door and drummed my fingers on the counter. Eventually he swung across on his ladder.
Normally, this would have made me jump, but I could feel no other emotion than joy and elation. It flooded my system, letting no other thought or wants through.

Ollivander smiled, “Ah, another wand for a fine witch, eh?” He examined my hand, “Left or right handed?”

“Left.”
Ollivander nodded and ran his finger down the dusty boxes on his shelf. Carefully extracting a black box from the pile, he gently placed it on the counter and opened it. Silver lining covered the inside of the box, protecting my wand from any damage. He held it up and polished it with a cloth,

“Ash wood, eleven inches, dragon heart string,” He flicked it and it whistled through the air. “Excellent for Charms,” He leaned closer, “Look after it.” I nodded, “Yes, Sir.”

He smiled again and gently placed it in my hand. My fingers closed around it and silver and black sparks spiralled around the room. I dropped the money into his hand and slipped the – MY – wand into my pocket and almost skipped out of the shop in
delight. This had to be the best day ever. I extracted the wand again and looked at it fondly. Over the day, I found my self just checking it was still there, and every time I did it, I felt a warm sensation, a happy sensation, rush through my body. It was a beautiful wand; a dark chocolate brown in colour with a thin emerald line traced around the bottom of the handle.

But the best thing was: it was mine.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Mon Apr 14 2008, 07:13

Well done to both Elana and ag167 on completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Thu Jun 19 2008, 16:18

As mine clocks in at around 2,778 words I've decided to put it inside of a spoiler box - I hope that's alright

Spoiler:

Yeah I have an issue of writing novels when I write something - sorry about that

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Thu Jun 19 2008, 16:31

I walked into Diagon Alley that day, happiness and butterflies in my stomach. So long I had waited for this, this wand. I walked up to the door, my hand sweating. I wiped my hand on my robes and walked inside. ‘Geez, it’s cold in here.’ I thought, wrapping a hand around myself.
“Hello?” I called out, seeing the shop empty, or so it seemed. I heard some bumping and thumping in the back and an old man popped out of nowhere.
“AH!” I screamed, hitting a little table in the corner, the vase falling off. “It’s ok, leave it.” He said, pulling out his wand and fixing it. I started wide eyed, but shook it off.
“I take it, Miss Riddle, you’re here for a wand?” he asked, searching through his wands in the back. I nodded way to late and blushed. He came back seconds later and held the wand out.
“Cherry wood, hair of unicorn, 7inches.” He said. I grabbed the wand and stared at it.
“You know, you are suppose to wave it.” He said, smiling. I nodded and waved it, hearing the same vase breaking again.
“No no no!” He yelled, snatching the wand from me so fast. I started blushing again, beginning to believe maybe I didn’t need a wand. He came back with another and held it out. I grabbed it, waving again and all his books in his shelf flew at him. Before he could duck, one hit him. I gasped, dropping the wand.
“I’m so sorry!” I said, helping him up. “It’s ok. I’ve been hit worse.” He said, brushing his robes off and picking up the wand. “This isn’t for you either.” And he ran back to the back again.
‘Now I know I don’t need one.’ I though. After three minute of waiting, he came back.
“Dragon Heart string, Walnut, 9 ½ inches.” He said, holding out again. I grabbed it with ease and before waving it, I felt a rush of excitement go through me, like this belong to me. That this was my wand. I waved it once and a book flew up, coming towards me.
“Congrats, Miss. Riddle, you have your very own wand!” He said, taking the wand and putting it in a box for me to carry home. I squeed and jumped up and down, yelling “I got it!” He handed me my bag and walked towards the back again. “Here’s a wand case. And you can buy your wand polish set here while you’re at it.” He told me.
I pulled some gallons out and started sorting them out. “I would like to buy the wand polished set.” I told him, as he starting calculating out much all it was.
“That will be 6 gallons for the wand and 7 gallons for the polish set.” He told me and I gave him the 13 gallons. “Goodbye sir!” I said, but looked up to see he had disappeared again. “Great, now I’m crazy.” I mumbled, walking out of the shop. “Might as well get some other stuff before going home.” I said out loud to myself and walked into another shop.

**
if i had known i could already put it up i would have the other night ago.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Jul 16 2008, 23:02

”Stephy wake up” shouted a voice that sounded somewhat distance. At the time, Stephy was still in bed dreaming when her mother walked into her room and was trying to wake her. After yelling at her for a few minutes she decided that that wasn’t going to work. So she pulled out her wand and pointing it at Stephy she shoted “Aquamenti” Water poured out of the tip of her wand and landed on top of Stephy. Feeling the cold water run down her spine, Stephy was awoken and she fell out of her bed.
“what was that for” Stephy screamed at her as she scrambled to her feet.
“I thought that you were planning on getting your wand today?” her mother asked her as she left the room.
“I can’t believe I forgot about that” Stephy shouted as she jumped to her feet and put on some clothes. She then ran upstairs and quicklt devoured some food that her mother had sitting on the table. Once she had eaten enough, she went over to her father who was suppose to take her to Diagon Alley.
“Do you have some money” her father said after Stephy asked him if they could leave yet. He held out his arm and Stephy grabbed it. The nect thing she knew all of the air left her lungs and she couldn’t inhale another breath. As quickly as it happen the sensation went away and she now saw herself standing in Diagon Alley. Stephy quickly ran down the street and found Ollivander’s. She rushed into the store and Ollivander turned around to greet her.
“Hello dear” Ollivander said. “I believe that you came for a wand.” He turned around right after he saw Stephy nod and started to look at the boxes that was behind him. While he was doing this there was a tape measuring flying around her taking measurements, or so STephy thought. After a few minutes he finally came across a wand. “Try this” he said handing the wand to her. Stephy grabbed it but nothing happened. “No, well give this one a go” and she too picked it up but nothing happened. Ollivander kept picking more and more wands but with each one Stephy was handed he would take it away and shove another one into her hand. “Well if this one don’t work then you might have to go to another store” Ollivander joked.Steohy grabbed the wand and to her relief the wand’s wood felt warm under her fingers and she knew this was the right one.
“There now you have a wand.” He said just as Stephy’s dad walked in. her father paid for the wand and they both left the store. Stephy’s dad looked at her and said “Now you can use that wand to curse your sisters and brothers”
“You know I cant” Stephy replied
“I wont tell anyone if you don’t” her father replied. Stephy rolled her eyes and they both made their way back home. Once there Stephy showed her wand to her mother and then placed the wand back into it’s box so that it would be in great condition for school

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Tue Aug 12 2008, 14:22

Well done to all of you on completing
the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for
this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand is now
registered.

Congratulations!

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Aug 13 2008, 08:30

Matthew woke with a start. His brother was jumping on him, shouting 'APRIL FOOLS!' Matthew threw him off the bed reminding him that it was only the first of August. When he said the date his heart lifted, he was going to buy his wand today. This was the day he'd been waiting for. Matthew had persuaded his mother to take him early to purchase the magical item, mainly because he wanted to learn how to turn his brother into a mouse before he left for Dumstrang. He booted his brother out the door so he could get changed, he took a deep breath thinking that the little pester would soon be running around 10 times smaller than he was now. The morning routine went on as usual, Matthew went down the stairs and sat at the table eating his breakfast. He didn't want to say to his mother about going for his wand today. He waited until she brought the subject up, he knew he'd be pushing his luck if he asked about it first and he didn't want to give her an excuse not to go.

Half past ten came, and Matthew was discreetly following his mother around the house, waiting for her to tell him that they would be leaving shortly. Eleven o'clock, still no sign of her leaving. Matthew got bored and then decided to give her some hints, maybe that would refresh her memory. Matthew saw that his mother had left her wand lying on the counter, so he lifted it and started playing with it. Just examining it. His mother came around and took it off him, telling him that it was too dangerous for him to be touching a wand. Still no luck, she didn't catch on. Twelve o'clock came and Matthew knew he was going to have to say something.
"Mum?" he asked her whilst he was sitting in the living room,
"Yes?" she replied poking her head around the corner.
"When are we going to Diagon alley?" he asked her and innocent expression on his face.
"Erm, that's right today. Go and get ready." she smiled.
Matthew took a deep breath, that went well. he thought to himself, thankful for small mercies.

Although Matthew lived in England he had decided to go to Dumstrang instead of Hogwarts. He wanted to escape the norm, he wanted to be different. He just hoped his wand had all the same intentions as he did. Minutes after the conversation Matthew came down the stairs ready to go.
"Mum! I'm ready.." he yelled down the stairs at her.
He hear rustling in the kitchen and then his mother appeared, also looking prepared for the occasion.
"Okay," said his mother "Traveling by flu powder and landing in quidditch supplies okay? And no hanging about in that shop, straight out. You've yapped about this wand for ages now, so come straight out and meet me outside the shop. Okay?" she finished
"Okay.." Matthew rolled his eyes when saying this, he was so used to that talk that he could say it word for word.
Matthew walked over to the fireplace, cupping his hands for the dust. His mother handed him some of the green powder and Matthew stepped into the small fireplace.
"Diagon ally!" Matthew said loudly.

Matthew spun around, seeing th green flames surrounded him. He was so used to this by now that it had no immediate effect on him. The spinning was still abit sickening but not scary. 'Round and 'round and 'round he went the flames still glowing beside him. Matthew knew where he was now and got ready to step out at the right place. To him it was like getting off those muggle things, buses. Matthew stepped out and smiled. He'd forgotten the glory of the Quidditch supplies shop, he loved it. But he obeyed his mother and went to wait outside the shop for the others to follow.

Five minutes later, he, his mother and brother were all walking down the street of Diagon Alley. They reached Ollivanders' shop, Matthew pressed his nose up against the window. the place was by far now his favourate shop in Diagon Alley. The bell rung above them as he and his mother walked into the store. Ollivander was sitting on a chair behind the counter reading the 'Daily Prophet.' He looked up in surprise as he seen my mother and myself enter the shop. Infact he looked like he hadnt seen people in weeks, that was maybe true. He did look a little weird.

Ollivander studied my face, he opened his mouth to speak but then shut it again. This was a little too weird for Matthews liking. Finally Mr. Ollivander opened his mouth again.
"What's your name?" he asked not taking his eyes from my face.
"Matthew sir, Matthew Folkland." he gulped in reply.
"Yes, going into your first year?" he asked
"Yes sir," Matthew replied thankful he didn't ask where he was attending, he always got strange looks from people when he told them.
"Okay, If you would like to follow me then I would like to take some measurements.." Mr. Ollivander piped up walking further behind the counter and into the shadows of the shelves that held hundreds of wands.
Matthew followed although not as enthumsiastic as Ollivander.
At the end of the shelves Matthew saw Mr. Ollivander standing witha measuring tape and a meter stick. He measured Matthw from his height to hand span. Matthew sighed and let Mr. Ollivander do what he needed without complaint.
After the tests Mr. Ollivander nodded and said
"I think I have the one.."
He was wrong, very wrong. Fiffteen wands later they still hadn't found the right one. Matthew sighed as the sixtennth was handed to him. Matthew took the wand as Mr. Ollivander told him what it was made form
"Oak, dragon Heartstring," he said in almost a gasp.
Matthew took it in his hand, a breeze came over him and he knew immediatly that this was the one that he wanted this was the one that he was going to use for the rest of his life.
"The wand choses the wizard, and this one seems to like you.." Mr. Ollivander pointed out.
Matthew smiled and handed the wand back to Mr. Ollivander. He was proud of his wand, glad that he'd found something that would play a great role in his life. He loved it from that minute on.

Matthew didn't learn to turn his brother into a mouse. Ever.

*************
Yesh! that was fun :)XD

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Wed Sep 03 2008, 00:49

Like Kaylee, I got carried away.Shorter than hers, being 2,034 words, but I figure it is long enough to deserve spoiler tags lol.

Spoiler:

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Fri Nov 28 2008, 22:19

It was curious how, for most of my life, I’d been waiting for this day with barely contained excitement. The day I received my wand. The day I could really call myself a witch. The day ten years’ training and watching and waiting culminated to this point – the moment when I would first touch my wand, and feel that familiarity, finding an old friend, finding that most important instrument.

But right now, all I felt was a wriggling belly full of squirming flobberworms. I was petrified. I was frozen to the spot. Nothing anyone could do would get me through that door.

I stared at the dark wood of the door, marked every line and spot on its surface, and it seemed to mock me. The sign over the door that proclaimed the store as Ollivander’s felt like a sign of doom.

My older brother gave me a shove, but I was too scared to notice.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, snapping his fingers in front of my eyes. But I was still staring at the door.

Was my wand beyond that door? Would I find it? What if I had no wand? What if I never found my wand, and I spent the rest of my life worse than a squib, doomed to exist with no magic but accidental magic, because I had no wand to ground my magic?

My breath was coming in short bursts as I struggled to reign in my panic.

My brother rolled his eyes at me, though I wasn’t looking to see or be offended, and snapped his fingers again, calling my name. Finally, I broke out of my reverie.

“Stop it. Nothing terrible is going to happen.” The words did little to reassure me, but I managed to stumble through the door and stand in front of the large desk nonetheless.

My knees were shaking as we waited for Mr Ollivander to appear. There was no one else in the shop at this time, and my brother sat down in the chair next to the door while I wrung my hands together.

Why was I so nervous? I told myself to pull it together, and just managed to stop my knees from knocking together.

Finally, after what felt like hours but was really only a few minutes, Mr Ollivander appeared – I was sure he popped out of nowhere, it was so sudden and so quietly done – and peered into my eyes.

“Hello,” I said. He nodded.

“Yes.”

I stared back.

Mr Ollivander clicked his fingers and a measuring tape jumped to life from a shadowy corner.

“Which arm is your wand arm, Miss Stort?” I indicated my right arm and the tape measure started measuring, as I assumed it was meant to do.

As it started, Mr Ollivander gave my brother a nod and received a polite dip of the head in return.

“Ah, Mr Ian Stort, I remember your first visit, indeed.” Mr Ollivander’s already large eyes widened further as he recalled earlier times. “Unicorn hair, Oak, eleven and a half inches, am I not correct?”

Ian smiled and nodded, patting the spot on his jacket under which his wand was tucked safely. “Yes, Mr Ollivander.”

The wand maker nodded in satisfaction and turned to one of his shelves – one of the shelves upon shelves upon shelves which were packed into the space. He carelessly flicked his hand and the tape measure fell to its corner once more, leaving me free to move once more.

“Let me see…let me see…” Mr Ollivander muttered to himself. “Ah! Good, unicorn hair, yew, nine and three quarter inches.”

The flobberworms in my stomach did a few back flips, and my mouth was suddenly dry as I leant over the desk to grasp the wand Mr Ollivander held out to me.

Instantly I knew it wasn’t my wand, but at Mr Ollivander’s encouraging nod, I gave it a small wave – and nearly knocked a large hole in the far wall as the desk was pushed sideways.

“No? Very well…” the wand maker was not at all perturbed, and returned to a different shelf.

I went through at least eight or nine wands, and each one made my stomach revolt in terror and agitation. It felt like my worst nightmares were coming to life. I wasn’t going to find my wand, because it wasn’t there – or worse, I wasn’t meant to have one.

Finally, however, Mr Ollivander took down a particularly old box, which was wedged high up on one of the furthest shelves. He took off the lid, blew at the dust, and offered me the wand, still sitting on its bed of red velvet.

I knew that this wand was different, as soon as my eyes lit upon its surface. The flobberworms in my stomach were suddenly gone, and I felt much more confident… this wand. It was different from the others.

My fingers grasped it, and I held it in my palm. A warmth spread through my skin, better than hot chocolate at Christmas, and I knew. This was my wand.

Gold sparks spilled from its tip, and I smiled. My wand. I’d found it, at last.

“Ah, very good. This wand is elm, veela hair core, and thirteen inches. It’s one of my last veela hair-cored wands, I don’t trust it so much, haven’t made a wand with veela hair in two hundred years, and this was one of the first I made… but there you are.”

I nodded, and at Mr Ollivander’s prompt, placed my wand back in the box reluctantly. He wrapped it up, and passed it back. I held on to the box carefully, and barely noticed my brother paying the wand maker the sum owed.

I’d found my wand…I was a proper witch, finally. It was like finding that moment of clarity, that moment when you know you’ve finally become something more, something you’ve waited to be since you were old enough to comprehend what a wand was.

I walked out of the shop, clutching my wand to my chest, and gave a small sigh. Nothing to be afraid of, after all. All that panicking for nothing…

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Sat Jan 03 2009, 08:49

As I climbed aboard the aeroplane, my spine tingled in anticipation, as it would be only a couple of hours until I touched down in London Airport, followed by hour long car ride into the centre of London to buy my first wand.

This will be remembered almost as much as the day I received the letter, the one on thick parchment and sealed with a snake, lion, badger, bird and an “H”. I mean, it wasn’t much of a surprise, I knew it was coming, but it still called for a large celebration with all the witches and wizards in Clackmannanshire coming to our small castle for a party that lasted for twenty-four hours, that was a mad day! I am being sent down to London, to join up with one of my Mums friends, Jayne, who she left behind when she moved to Dad’s castle, but the still keep in touch, and so when Mum broke the news to her, Jayne was more than willing to escort me round the world famous Diagon Alley. Mum wants me to have the best wand possible, and so she’s gone and put me on a plane to go and see Mr. Ollivander. The only reason she wants me not to go to Miss MacDiarmind, the woman who makes wands for close friends and families, is to spite my Dad, as he has been having trouble with his wand lately, he’s still got his first, while Mums is still working fine.

The aeroplane bumped down on the tarmac around eight o’clock, and it took me best part of an hour to even find Jayne. She came running up to me in a work suit, and it made her look really serious, even though she’s one of the bubbliest people I know. We traipsed back to her car, still rapidly talking, trying to catch up with each other, her daughter’s antics, as they had been lift with Phil, Jayne’s husband, and Dad’s new argument with the Ministry, currently flying carpets should be made legal again, as not everyone can learn to drive a Muggle car.

We made the trip to the Leaky Cauldron pub/ inn, in about an hour and a quarter, thanks to a bus crash about half way. We booked into the inn, and settled down for the night. Jayne wanted to talk a lot, and that suited me, as I think the night would have dragged almost sleeplessly without her wearing me out with her talking first.

We woke up at ten, ate breakfast in the pub, and then headed out into Diagon Alley. As I walked through the brick archway, the amount of noise, and shops overwhelmed me. I was used to having to drag my feet all over the country to get a few things instead of being able to walk down one street and get all of the things I needed. I considered buying myself an owl, but Jayne talked me round to going to Ollivanders first, and seeing how much we had left to spend afterwards.

As we walked into the little shop and closed the door behind us, a bell tinkled somewhere in the shop, but all the other sounds were oddly muted. I was anxious, to see what Mr Ollivander looked like, but also scared, what if I tried loads of wands and none of them reacted? Jayne, as if sensing my fear, squeezed my hand and then sat down. Mr Ollivander walked around the corner and spotted Jayne first, and then following her gaze, me. Without asking, measuring tapes began to wind around unlikely areas of my body to measure things like nose to ear span, and the space between my fore finger and pinky finger. After a while, Mr Ollivanded glided away, and he came back with a single wand box. He handed it to me and as soon as my fingers touched the wood, the warmest feeling passed through my body, starting at my hand and going through to my head and toes. All my worries evaporated from my head, about Mum and Dad, about problems with wands, it was pure elation coursing through me. Once the feeling began to wear off, I saw Mr. Ollivander pass a look at Jayne, then at myself. He said, “That’s a coincidence. She has an oak and phoenix tail feather wand. 11 inches, stable, good for defence work. Now, I remember your wand and her mothers quite well, as you came in together and didn’t stop giggling the whole hour you were in my shop. Yours is an oak and dragon heartstring, and her mothers is a willow and phoenix tail feather, both slightly odd mixes, but weird how both were combined for this wand…” He let his voice trail of and then stated the price of the wand, 11 Sickles, and the wandered of into the back of his shop.

We bought an ice-cream each and sat down to consider what had happened and what we had been told. Jayne agreed with Mr. Ollivander’s observations on her wand and my Mum’s, two odd combinations, with an element from each to make my wand. We didn’t dwell on this for long, and so we recounted my money, and headed of to look at the pets again. As we walked down the alley, I realised I was walking on my toes, as if I was floating. I tried to stop but my happiness kept spilling over.

In the end, with a small loan from Jayne, I brought a barn owl, and named it Holly, and sent it of with a piece of parchment declaring my purchases, which read:
Mum,
This owl is now my own, and she is called Holly. I also wanted to tell you that I got a wand but a weird conversation with Mr. Ollivander has got me thinking. Will tell more when I get back home. See you at the airport,
Zoe. XXX

I felt sort of sad when I left Jayne, I had hardly stopped laughing over the last two days, and I promised to send Holly down regularly, about Hogwarts and what’s happening at home. As I sat on the plane, I relived the past two days and I realised a new phase in my witch hood was about to begin.

Subject: Re: Level Five: Receiving Your Wand Sun Jun 28 2009, 16:54

Well done pickles, drkangelcat, FaerieOfDoom and Blue Rabbit Babe, on completing the final level of the wand examinations. You can find your score for this level in the Test Completion List thread, and your wand will soon be registered.

Congratulations!

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