The day had finally arrived. I could not believe it was already the day of decision. The day that every senior was pronounced a real wizard. The day I would become a real wizard.

The Spirit Animal Fest. The most important celebration of them all. Apart from Christmas.

Every year, on the 16th of March, the Spirit Animals of the Heavens fall down to Earth and choose humans to hold their powers and carry it through the generations. This tradition had been passed down for centuries, creating and shattering freshman friendships every year.

My mother, a confident yet creative person, always seemed to have daunting eyes that aimed for the sky. Aquila, the Eagle Spirit Animal, chose her excitedly, my mother’s face gleaming with pride. Meanwhile my father, a courageous and wise person, was chosen to be a Lion.

My parents debated every night till this morning whether I would be an Eagle or Lion. I possessed many of their traits. I had straight A’s when it came to creativity. My spirit animal statues were of professional standard. My advice to friends when it came to hard times was better than the sick therapist sipping tea in the principal’s office.

I have absolutely no idea what my spirit animal will be. My heart pounded as the bell rang, commencing the Spirit Animal Fest.

I entered the vast courtyard and searched around as the Spirits sang and called on people. I found my friends all sitting nervously by the bench. Everyone would be nervous today. I waved at them as I glanced at my parents in the distance.

I took a look at the stalls. It was like a bustling marketplace, a bit of stepping on shoes, the excited talks and bargaining. And of course, as it was every year, Draco, the Dragon Spirit animal, always the most popular.

I knew I would not get it. I was simply a weak and unambitious teenager. Although, I was certain I would get either Lion or Eagle. Genetics were an important role when it came to receiving your spirit animal.

I snuck around the Horse Spirit Animal Stall, a small but courageous stall which everyone loved. I stole a piece of carrot cake from the back as I searched for the butterfly stand. The butterfly stand was the heart of the courtyard.

They gave predictions and advice to newcomers every year. I squeezed through the bustling crowd as I made it to Papilio. “Ah, Sophia!”

“Your advice for this year is,” He opened a scroll as he read. “You shall encounter new beginnings and friendships.”

“Wait what does that mean-” I shouted as the crowd threw me to the floor. I dusted myself off as I went to take a seat. The Calling would start in a minute or two.

“We would like to welcome all parents to our annual Spirit Animal Calling.” Principal Dove said as they stood up to the podium. The room silenced with anticipated whispers. “This is where all our freshman shall receive, inevitably, their futures. We have made careful observations in our school hours, and we know that we have many incredible wizards to grow and teach the future.”

“We may now start.”

The principal called out every Spirit Animal to the stage, each with its own accompanying speech. And finally, the Eagle. If I had to pick between the Lion and Eagle, I would pick Aquila every time.

“Aquila, the Spirit Animal of the Eagle. Strong and daunting, always makes an impact on others.”

“I bet 500 dollars that you would be an Eagle. Watch me win!” My mother grasped me and she hugged me with pride. “Let the selections happen. She has more qualities of a lion than school captain Tyrone.”

“Tyrone was a disgrace to the school.” Mother shook her head. As the enthusiastic claps subsided, I realised that it was practically certain that I would receive the Lion Spirit animal. I tried not to sulk in my seat as my father searched his wallet.

Leo pranced to the stage with a mighty roar. “Leo, the Spirit Animal of the Lion. Courageous and wise in every step of their life. They shall protect all those around them.”

I got more tense with every name call. I shut my eyes tightly as I listened. Suddenly, the same, energetic applauding happened, bursting my ear drums. I looked to my parents with confusion as my father put back the money.

“I- guess she’s not either.” Mother mumbled, trying not to look disappointed. I felt despair rise in my as I tried to think of something to say.

“Before our Calling Ceremony concludes, we have a few special spirit animals here with us. Please welcome Bara.” The applause was serene, everyone knowing what a horrible job it was.

I mean, cleaning the swamps? Washing the boat deck? Feeding the mermen and mermaids? Not exactly everyone’s cup of tea. I noticed Rana, the Spirit of the Frog animal, in the special list. I sat in excitement as Bara droned with a long assignment. “It’s alright you didn’t get Eagle or Lion. Maybe you’ll be called for the Frog Spirit Animal-”

“Sophia Douche. Please come to the stage.” I felt startled as he called my name. Was this a mistake?

“Sophia?” I stood up and made my way to the stage. I could not comprehend the looks I saw on the audience’s faces. They looked like a mixture of confusion and disgust. My eyes felt like tearing up as I stood up on the stage, being looked down by all the people I knew.

It felt like the world was turning on me. I only caught fragments of what Bara was talking about as the rest sank in my disappointment. “Helpful…Friendly…Should be proud…Emotional people…Gentle instead of feared.”

I rushed back to my seat as the dim clapping paused. “I know, not everyone is happy with their spirit animal.” The principal said as she overlooked the students. “But not everything shall go your way. Not everything will be predictable. You shall face challenges, but you have to adjust and live freely.” Pfft. As if.