Pottermore, a website dedicated to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, officially launched on April 14, 2012. But, if you geeked out like me and needed to gain early access by way of the Magical Quill Challenge, you probably set alarms at the top of the hour every hour for seven days straight beginning July 31, 2011. 

And, if you were like me, it was likely you also followed Twitter and various other forums tirelessly in search of helpful information because all you ever wanted — admittance to Hogwarts, the Sorting Hat specifically designed by J.K. Rowling herself, and the chance to gallivant with your magical friends around the grounds of the

castle  — was on the line. 

My dream had the potential for realization before anyone else could snatch it away from me so long as I won the Magical Quill Challenge. And I did. I won. And I know, I’m pathetic.

But the original buzz surrounding Queen Jo’s website, Pottermore, seemed to disappear, as if hiding in the Room of Requirement. But wait! Last week, a new feature arrived. Users can now access their very own Patronus.

On Sept. 22, 2015, my Twitter feed exploded with pictures of white, whispy creatures painted against dark forests and posts featuring ferocious complaints of salmon and rodents. Curious, very curious.

I perused further and learned Pottermore had added a new application to its site. You could now discover the thing that reflected your soul and your happiest memories — your Patronus. Of course, I needed to find mine immediately.

I logged into my ancient account, of which I am a member of Ravenclaw, and clicked “Begin.” To be honest, I was incredibly frightened. Friends of mine had received the likes of small, commonly eaten fish and pesky rats or mice. I could not be one of these people. I needed something strong, something valiant. Some sort of creature that instills hope and inspires all. 

Maybe I wanted a stag, a symbol that my bravery matched that of both Harry and James Potter. Or maybe a doe, a symbol that I would be able to love as deeply and for as long as Severus Snape or Lily Potter. I would even be happy with a Jack Russell Terrier, Ron Weasley’s Patronus, chosen for him only because it is known for chasing the Patronus animal, an otter, of Hermione Granger, Ron’s love interest. 

So, after nervously being guided through the Forbidden Forest and making a series of choices that appeared on my screen, my Patronus was a hummingbird? A hummingbird?! Hm, a hummingbird. Ah, yes, ok. This I could handle. A hummingbird is quick, intelligent and brings joy to many. Honestly, I think at this point I was just relieved that I didn’t get an insect. 

It’s a tricky thing when your content state derives from simply not ending up with the worst result, but it’s a reality I’m willing

to accept.

Fellow Ravenclaws, I’m certain you will all end up with the Patronus of your dreams. To the rest of you plebeians, best of luck. Not like I’m biased, or anything, but maybe if you were part of the most superior house, you would have a better shot at a majestic Patronus. 

OK, OK, I apologize. I let my pride get the best of me. I need to channel the serenity of my hummingbird. I wish you well in your Pottermore ventures. Mischief managed!