19 November, 2025 // 435 words // Share
Orla's Unforgettable School Adventure

Orla wasn't just any ordinary student at Maplewood Primary. She was known across the school for two things: her unruly, half curly, half straight hair that seemed to have a mind of its own, and her peculiar aroma, a mix of lavender and mystery left over from her Grandma Maeve's homemade potions. While some whispered about "Smelly Orla" in the corridors, Orla paid no heed. She knew she was destined for something extraordinary.
One Monday morning, as Orla hurried to her classroom, clutching her new science project—a bubbly concoction of herbs and liquids—she noticed a curious note slipped into her backpack. It read: Meet me in the library after school. I've got a secret to share.
Intrigued, Orla spent the day wondering who had sent the note and what the secret might be.
When the final bell rang, Orla dashed to the library, her heart racing with anticipation. There, she found Tom, the shy boy from her class, waiting amidst towering bookshelves. "I knew you'd come," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Tom explained that he'd been observing Orla's unique talent for creating potions and believed her skills could help solve a mystery plaguing the school. Strange things had been happening: books rearranging themselves, chalk scribbling on boards without a hand in sight, and even the school bell ringing at odd times.
Excited by the challenge, Orla and Tom joined forces. They spent every afternoon that week concocting a special potion to reveal the source of the strange occurrences. As they worked, they discovered a shared love for science and adventure, laughing as they experimented with different ingredients.
Finally, on Friday evening, Orla and Tom sprinkled their finished potion in the schoolyard. To their amazement, a shimmering figure appeared—a mischievous, ancient school spirit named Albus. He giggled and darted around them, explaining that he'd been trying to have some fun after centuries of slumber.
Impressed by Orla and Tom's efforts, Albus promised to behave, and in return, he offered them a gift: a book of ancient, magical recipes. As the spirit vanished, Orla and Tom stood in disbelief, holding the glowing book. They realised that their teamwork had turned an ordinary week into an extraordinary adventure.

From that day on, Orla wasn't just "Smelly Orla" anymore. She was the girl with the magical hair and a knack for uncovering secrets, and Tom was her trusted partner. Together, they became the school's unofficial mystery-solving duo, ready for whatever adventure came their way next.