Hootle, my wide-eyed owl companion, had quickly become the highlight of my days. He perched on my shoulder, floated alongside my tiny hands, and sometimes flapped impatiently whenever my magic misfired.
Today, Clara announced it was "communication and coordination day."
"You and Hootle," she said, waving her wand, "will practice telepathic link spells. You must understand each other's intent without speaking. Clear?"
I blinked. Telepathic link with an owl? My tiny chest puffed. "I… I think so!"
Lina, back from AM for a short visit, giggled. "This is going to be hilarious. He's already chaotic, now telepathic chaos!"
Elena, calm as ever, observed silently, notebook in hand. "…Promising," she muttered.
---
The first attempt was… a disaster.
I focused on Hootle, tiny arms outstretched. "Try to lift the rattle!"
Hootle blinked. The rattle spun, floated, then zoomed straight into the wall, knocking over a vase.
"ZACKIEEE!!" Clara shouted, flailing to catch it.
I squeaked in panic. Hootle flapped indignantly, feathers puffing out. Lina doubled over laughing.
Even the maids peeked in nervously, whispering, "This child… he's impossible."
The butler muttered, "And the owl… is… a flying hazard."
But I refused to give up. Tiny hands trembling, I refocused. My gaze met Hootle's wide eyes. We can do this… together.
The second attempt went better. The rattle floated upward, then sideways—almost under control. Hootle nudged it gently with his wing. I giggled, tiny legs wobbling as I crawled alongside the floating toy.
Elena nodded quietly. "…Promising."
---
After lunch (milk spilled, as always), I decided to explore more of the mansion with Hootle perched on my shoulder.
We discovered a narrow spiral staircase leading to a room I had never seen before. The door creaked as I pushed it open, revealing shelves of ancient scrolls, glowing crystals, and magical artifacts.
Hootle hooted softly, fluttering toward a small crystal orb that shimmered in the sunlight.
I crawled after him, tiny fingers brushing against the runes etched into the orb. A soft hum filled the room. I lifted my hands… and suddenly, the orb floated, spinning in midair, casting shimmering lights across the walls.
"Whoa…" I whispered, eyes wide. Hootle perched proudly on my shoulder, as if approving my attempt.
Clara appeared in the doorway. "So… you've found the Arcane Room. Impressive."
"Arcane Room?" I asked.
"Yes," she said, crouching beside me. "This room holds our family's secrets. Only those who show focus and talent are allowed here. You… may have just passed the first test."
Lina laughed, peeking in. "Looks like chaos isn't just a problem—it's a talent!"
Elena quietly jotted notes in her book. "…Promising," she said.
I blinked, clutching Hootle. The owl hooted softly, like he agreed.
---
By evening, I was exhausted but proud.
Hootle had become more than a companion—he was a partner in magic. Together, we had levitated objects, discovered hidden corners of the mansion, and even uncovered part of the family's magical legacy.
Clara smiled down at me. "You're improving, Zackie. With Hootle by your side, I think you'll surpass even Lina one day."
I blinked, tiny cheeks puffed with pride. "Really?"
"Really," she said, patting my head.
Even Elena, ever the quiet observer, nodded. "…Promising."
I looked at Hootle. His big eyes met mine, and I knew he understood.
Magic, chaos, laughter, love… and a loyal companion.
Even as a toddler, I realized:
This journey was far from over.
And together with Hootle, I would face every magical mishap, every challenge, and every secret waiting in the mansion.
One floating toy, one spilled bottle, one magical experiment at a time.
Because my adventure had only just begun.