Chapter One: Frog Belly, Chocolate Jelly

"Jacklyn will you pay ATTENTION!"

I wince at the sound of my aunt and mentor screaming at me, I must've zoned out again. I can't help it, these spell classes are killing me. I look down at the bruises on my arms and legs and shake my head. Literally.

I shrink as my aunt Bodhi stomps up to me waving her bony finger in my face.

"The witches tournament is in three months, if you're not ready, you will be KICKED OUT OF THE COVEN."

I gag at the smell of her breath, that Frog Belly Chocolate Jelly soup they're serving in the dining hall is doing nothing to help my sensitive nose. Cringing as her spit lands on my face I stand up and adjust my junior spell caster's hat. Sticking out my lower lip and widening my eyes, I look at my aunt.

"But Aunt Bodhi, I'm really tired, do you think we could rest for a bit?"

She shakes her head and casts a look of disappointment at me. "Get up, and try again."

I sigh and stand up. Squaring my shoulders and dusting off my cloak, I focus on the monkey munching on a banana in front of me. Waving my hand I envision the banana turning into a carrot. I close my eyes and snap my fingers. A snaking jolt of lime green essence tears through my arm and wraps itself around the monkey. I open my eyes as the monkey yelps. Smiling, I open my eyes and look at what I've done.

I gulp at the sight. "Well...that's slightly different than I expected hehe."

The monkey glares at me from behind the giant pumpkin I've turned his banana into. My aunt snaps her fingers, causing both the monkey and the pumpkin to disappear. Her gaze burns holes through my clothing.

Suddenly, a knock at the training room door sounds. I look up to find James standing there, breathless.

"What is it?" My aunt snaps, annoyed at being interrupted.

"Jacklyn, it's your sister, she's missing."