Exams, Results, and Year-End
The end of the year had arrived faster than anyone could have expected. The school halls were filled with a mixture of tension, excitement, and the heavy atmosphere that accompanied the final stretch. With the O.W.L. exams looming on the horizon for the fifth-years, the entire school had shifted into exam prep mode. But for Ezekiel and his friends, the focus was on the final exams for their second year, and of course, the highly anticipated House Cup.
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For the past week, Hogwarts had been a hive of activity. Students poured over textbooks, scribbled frantic notes, and participated in study sessions with varying degrees of success. Though Ezekiel was aware of the upcoming O.W.L.s in his future, for now, he concentrated on the immediate exams for his second year. His study sessions were intense, especially when he met up with Adrian, his close friend from Ravenclaw, to study. Together, they tackled difficult subjects like Defence Against the Dark Arts and Transfiguration, pushing each other to do their best.
The atmosphere in the library had a mixture of silent concentration and occasional bursts of laughter, especially when Adrian tried to charm a book to turn pages faster.
"Come on, Ezekiel, you need to relax a bit. All this study and no play?" Adrian joked one afternoon, clearly trying to lighten the mood.
Ezekiel, known for his tendency to bury himself in books, had to admit that Adrian had a point.
"I just want to make sure I do well," Ezekiel replied, his usual focused intensity in his eyes. "Quidditch Cup win is good, but I still want to leave a mark in academics too."
Adrian smiled. "We'll be fine. Besides, I think we've learned more about Quidditch tactics than any actual magic."
Both of them laughed, and in that moment, Ezekiel realized that while the exams were important, he was grateful for these moments of friendship amidst the stress.
But as much as they laughed, when it came time for the exams, they were all business.
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The day of the first exam, Charms, arrived. Ezekiel had woken up early to review his notes one last time. His broomstick was still leaning against his bed, a silent reminder of the Quidditch victory that had already come and gone, but now, it was time for the magic of academics.
The Great Hall was eerily quiet as the second-years and other younger students filed into their seats. The enchanted quills, parchment, and magical ink prepared for use. Professor Flitwick stood at the front, giving instructions, his usual cheeriness replaced by the solemnity of exam day.
Ezekiel had no doubt about his capabilities. He knew the material backward and forward, especially after all the late-night study sessions. When the exam began, he quickly skimmed over the questions, making sure to read them thoroughly before starting. His quill moved swiftly across the parchment, forming neat, precise answers.
It wasn't long before the tension started to build for the other subjects—Herbology, Potions, Astronomy, and the ever-challenging Transfiguration. It was a test of endurance as much as knowledge, but Ezekiel was used to the pressure by now. His focus never wavered, and his confidence only grew as the week progressed.
By the time the exams were over, the students were left to deal with the aftermath: the long wait for their results. There was little to do but try to relax—but that was easier said than done.
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The week after the exams seemed to drag on. Students anxiously waited for their results, and the tension was palpable. Conversations around the castle were dominated by discussions about the exams, with some students confident in their performance, while others expressed anxiety about how they'd done.
Ezekiel sat in the Ravenclaw common room one evening, flipping through the pages of an old book on magical creatures, but his mind was elsewhere. He knew he had done well—he always put in the effort, and he knew his strengths. But even so, the anxiety gnawed at him.
Finally, the day arrived. The results were posted on the notice board for all to see. Ezekiel stood in line with some of his friends, his heart pounding. When it was his turn, he stepped up to the notice board and took a deep breath before reading the parchment.
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Ezekiel's Exam Results
Charms: Outstanding
Transfiguration: Exceeds Expectations
Herbology: Outstanding
Potions: Exceeds Expectations
Defence Against the Dark Arts: Outstanding
Astronomy: Exceeds Expectations
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Ezekiel felt a wave of relief wash over him. His results were excellent—his hard work had paid off. Not only did he pass with flying colors, but his outstanding marks in most of his subjects were a source of pride. He had solidified his place among the top students at Hogwarts, and he knew that this would open many doors for him in the future.
Adrian, who had been standing next to him, let out a whoop of joy when he saw his own results.
"We did it!" Adrian grinned, slapping Ezekiel on the back. "It's like I said—we were always going to be fine."
Ezekiel couldn't help but smile. He had worked hard, and now, he could finally breathe easy.
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With exams behind them, the students had one final event to look forward to: the End-of-Year Feast. The Great Hall was beautifully decorated with magical candles floating in the air, shining brightly above the tables laden with delicious food. Students wore their finest robes in anticipation of the evening's celebration.
As the students gathered to enjoy the festivities, the atmosphere was one of euphoria. Laughter filled the room as students swapped stories of their exams, some relishing in their success, others trying to brush off their failures. The feast itself was a grand affair, with platters of roast meats, vegetable dishes, and a wide assortment of desserts, from chocolate eclairs to pumpkin pasties.
Ezekiel sat at the Ravenclaw table, feeling a sense of calm that had been absent for weeks. He chatted with his friends about the upcoming summer break, knowing that the next year would bring new challenges—and new adventures.
However, the most anticipated part of the feast was the announcement of the House Cup winner.
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The plates cleared, and the room quieted as Professor McGonagall stood to address the students. Her stern voice echoed in the hall.
"This has been an eventful year, and I would like to thank each of you for your hard work and dedication. Before we conclude tonight's festivities, it is time to announce the winner of this year's House Cup."
The students held their breath. Everyone knew that Gryffindor had been a strong contender, and Hufflepuff had shown impressive teamwork throughout the year. Even Slytherin had kept up the pressure. But this year, there had been a sense of balance and unity within Ravenclaw that hadn't been seen in previous years.
"The House Cup this year goes to—Ravenclaw!"
The hall erupted into cheers, and the Ravenclaw table burst into applause. Ezekiel jumped to his feet, clapping and cheering along with his friends, his heart swelling with pride. It had been a long, challenging year, but they had earned it. Their hard work, determination, and unity had paid off.
Ezekiel caught Roger Davies' eye across the room, and the Captain gave him a nod of approval. They had all been part of this victory—whether on the Quidditch pitch or in the classroom.
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After the announcement, the celebrations grew wilder. Ravenclaw students gathered around their House table, laughing and sharing stories of the year. Ezekiel felt a sense of belonging, surrounded by friends who had become like family.
The year had been one of growth, both academically and personally. He had faced challenges, met new people, and strengthened the friendships that meant the most to him. As the evening wore on, he reflected on everything he had accomplished.
As the students danced, sang, and shared their triumphs, Ezekiel knew one thing for certain: next year would be even better. The future was full of endless possibilities, and he was ready to face whatever came next with the same determination that had carried him through this year.
For now, though, it was time to enjoy the moment.
And Ravenclaw had earned this victory.
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