One of the most important bits of magic for the aspiring witch or wizard to learn is the Wand-Lighting Charm. Useful in a wide range of activities, easy to pronounce and with a simple wand motion, this charm is one that every single witch or wizard should master and remember. 

The Wand-Lighting Charm
Incantation: Lumos (pronounced ‘LOO-mos’)
Wand Movement: Single counter-clockwise loop
Focus: None
Willpower: Low; determines the color of the light
Concentration: None

The first known use of the Wand-Lighting Charm was in the 18th century despite how easy it is to use. Magical historians credit Levina Monkstanley, a Ministry of Magic employee, for its invention. It was first demonstrated in 1772 when Ms. Monkstanley had dropped her quill on the ground and used the spell to find it.

Its uses far exceed simply lighting the tip of the wand. It can provide an easy and endless source of amusement for young witches and wizards who usually enjoy watching the color change. In government it makes for a safe and easy method for casting a vote. It can even be used to repel incorporeal threats such as the Gytrash (a vicious spectral hound) and other malevolent spirits. 

Depending upon the amount of charge (the amount of willpower you throw behind the spell) the light might change from a soft pearly white to a lemon-yellow (which indicates sufficient energy, or charge, has been applied), or even scarlet if the caster has put too much into it. It is also possible to modify the effect of the spell with additional incantation words, and these are detailed in different chapters of this text.

Since the magic for the Wand-Lighting Charm never leaves the tip of your wand, the flow of magical energy does not need to be directed (no focus is required to cast the spell) or consciously maintained (no concentration, or continued focus after the spell is cast, is required). However, if you let go of your wand while this charm is in effect, the light will go out.

No text describing the Wand-Lighting Charm would be complete without its equally-simple counter, the Wand-Extinguishing Charm. This spell has a singular purpose, and that is to counter the Wand-Lighting Charm. It is a personal charm, which means it will only work for your own wand, or the wand you happen to be holding should it be lit.

The Wand-Extinguishing Charm
Incantation: Nox (pronounced ‘NOCK-ss’)
Wand Movement: Swift (fast) flick
Focus:  None
Willpower: None
Concentration: None

The Wand-Extinguishing Charm can be quickly cast and its effect is immediate. There is no harm of backlash, making it as safe as the charm it counters.