Chapter 72: Baz and the Rush to Watford
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Baz narrates the chaotic journey to Watford after Penelope learns her father is involved with Smith-Richards. Penelope steals a builder's van and forces Shepard to drive at reckless speed, casting spells to clear traffic. In the cargo area, Pippa, Simon, Baz, and Jamie Salisbury (Lady Salisbury’s son) sit. Simon calmly questions Jamie about Smith-Richards. Jamie admits Smith’s “cure” temporarily gave him strong magic but then stripped him of all magic entirely. Pippa tearfully confirms that Beth also lost all magic. Despite her damaged voice, Pippa takes Baz’s wand and casts a water spell – her magic works. Penelope navigates the van to Watford, noticing Normals can now see the school because of Smith’s influence. Baz, Penelope, and Shepard prepare to storm the Weeping Tower while Simon and Pippa stay behind.
Key Events
- Penelope learns her father is involved with Smith-Richards and immediately commandeers a van.
- Shepard drives frantically while Penelope casts traffic-altering spells.
- Jamie Salisbury reveals that Smith’s spell gave him powerful magic temporarily, then vanished entirely.
- Pippa demonstrates that she can still perform magic when she borrows Baz’s wand.
- The group arrives at Watford, which is now visible to Normals, and dozens of cars are parked outside.
- Penelope orders Shepard to drive through the gates onto the Great Lawn.
- Baz, Penelope, and Shepard go to the Weeping Tower; Simon and Pippa stay behind.
Character Development
- Baz: Acts as the calm, strategic narrator. He gives Pippa his wand without hesitation and shows concern for Simon’s safety by advising him to stay behind.
- Simon: Grows in maturity by staying calm while questioning Jamie – he uses empathy rather than aggression. He also prioritizes Pippa’s safety over his own desire to fight.
- Penelope: Driven by family loyalty; her impulsive action (stealing a van) shows she will risk anything for her parents.
- Pippa: Vulnerable yet resilient. After losing her voice and feeling powerless, she tentatively proves her magic still works, a turning point for her.
- Jamie Salisbury: Characterized by denial and misplaced loyalty. He insists Smith-Richards is good even after losing his magic, showing how deep his desperation runs.
- Shepard: Comic relief and moral compass; his muttered complaint about Penelope’s use of “obviously” highlights the absurdity of the situation.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Loss of Magic / Mundanity: The theme of losing magic (or becoming “Normal”) is central. Jamie’s story and Pippa’s fear illustrate how magic defines identity in this world.
- Power and Desperation: Smith-Richards preys on magicians who feel inadequate. Jamie’s willingness to ignore his loss reveals the desperation behind the “cure.”
- Trust and Loyalty: Baz’s trust in giving Pippa his wand (even closing his eyes) contrasts with Jamie’s blind faith in Smith.
- Visibility of Watford: The school becoming visible to Normals symbolizes the crumbling of the magical world’s secrecy due to Smith’s actions.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter is the turning point before the final confrontation. Jamie’s testimony exposes Smith-Richards’ scheme as a fraud that destroys magic rather than improves it. Pippa’s recovered magic gives hope that the damage isn’t permanent. The group splits, foreshadowing a direct assault on Smith and setting the stage for the climax.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Jamie Salisbury refuse to believe Smith-Richards harmed him?
Jamie is in denial because he desperately wants to be a powerful magician. Smith gave him a taste of that power, and Jamie would rather believe the spell can be fixed than accept that he lost his magic permanently. His emotional investment blinds him to evidence.
2. What is significant about Pippa successfully casting a spell with Baz’s wand?
It proves that her magic wasn’t destroyed – only suppressed. Since Pippa never took Smith's “cure,” her voice damage might from using the flawed spell on others. Her success gives the group hope that the spell’s effects are reversible and that Pippa can recover.
3. How does Simon’s behavior in this chapter differ from his earlier self?
Simon remains calm and empathetic instead of reacting with anger or impulsiveness. He gently coaxes Jamie’s story, offers comfort, and willingly stays behind to protect Pippa. This shows his growth as a leader and a friend.