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All's fair in Love and Quidditch CH.1
🕑 Added 2023-12-09 13:58:51 +0000 UTCThe sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the Hogwarts grounds as the last echoes of the final bell rang through the stone corridors. All over the castle, students hurriedly stuffed their books in their school bags, eager to unwind after a day of classes. Down on the grounds, Harry, Hermione, and Ron trudged wearily back to the castle after their Care of Magical Creatures lesson with Hagrid.
Harry heard Ron, walking beside him, grumbling under his breath about the amount of homework they had to deal with.
"Blimey, can you believe how much homework we got today, Harry?" Ron muttered to his best friend, kicking a small pebble on the path in frustration. "You would think they would let us ease us back into things. But no siree. Twenty-inch-long essays from all the Professors on the first day back. Even Hagrid! When was the last time Hagrid assigned us homework for anything?"
Before Harry could agree with his best mate, Hermione, who was walking a few steps ahead of them, shot Ron her trademark disappointed look over her shoulder. "Ron, honestly, you should be grateful for the opportunity to learn. Assignments are essential to make sure we understand the material, and—"
"Come on, Hermione," Ron interrupted, his frustration evident in his voice. "You don't honestly believe that I should be grateful for the mountain of essays Snape gave us for the week? The slimy git could've given us a chapter for reading but no he just had to assign us two essays to be submitted on Monday. What's the point of it all other than the fact that the bastard just enjoys our misery?"
After years of hearing her friends call Professor Snape all sorts of names, Hermione had long since stopped bothering to reprimand them. So, instead, she just rolled her eyes at Ron. "Professor Snape does not revel in our misery, Ronald," she said patiently, continuing to walk ahead of them. "The point is to ensure we're ready for the exams next year. That's all."
Starting to feel a little irritated now, Ron couldn't help but scowl at Hermione's back, "Of course, you would say that, Hermione. You enjoy writing these bloody essays as much as I enjoy playing chess. Unfortunately, unlike you, the rest of us like to do other things for fun."
Walking behind her, Harry could see that Ron's words had hurt Hermione, evident in the sudden stiffening of her shoulders. Anticipating that a fight could break out between his friends if their argument persisted, he decided it was time to intervene. Clapping Ron on the shoulder, Harry said, "Come on, Ron, stop moping around. We'll help each other out with the homework. We always do."
At his words, Ron sighed, a small smile breaking through his disgruntled expression. "Yeah, I suppose you're right, Harry. I just don't want to spend the entire year drowning in work, that's all. You know I want to try out for the Keeper position this year."
As they approached the castle, Hermione slowed down, allowing Harry and Ron to catch up with her while she adjusted the strap of her school bag which looked ready to burst from the amount of books packed inside.
Ron's ears turned a little red as they caught up with Hermione and he shot her a sheepish look. "Sorry about what I said earlier, 'Mione. Of course, there's nothing wrong with you for enjoying studying."
Hermione's lips quirked up in a small smile at Ron's apology. "It's alright, Ron. I guess Professor Snape did give us too much work considering it was the first day of classes and all. But don't worry, as Harry said, we'll help each other out with the homework."
Ron threw her a grateful smile in return. "I knew I could always count on you, 'Mione," he said cheerfully.
Harry breathed a sigh of relief as his friends stopped their bickering and made up with each other. The three friends exchanged smiles as they entered the castle, starting to make their way to the Gryffindor common room. They were halfway up the grand staircase when a small figure almost barreled into them, hurrying down the stairs.
"Woah! Slow down, ickle firstie. What's the rush? You're going to hurt someone," Ron exclaimed, reaching out to grasp the blonde-haired missile by the shoulders.
Instead of apologising to Ron for almost pushing him down the stairs, the small girl huffed, jerking away from his grip with an indignant toss of her head. "Excuse me! I'll have you know, I'm not an ickle firstie. I'm in my second year, idiot," she scoffed, clearly offended.
Harry and Hermione burst into giggles at the dumbfounded expression on their red-haired friend's face. The sound of their laughter drew the attention of the girl, The sound of their laughter drew the attention of the girl, who looked away from Ron and perked up upon seeing Harry.
"Harry! Harry Potter!" she said excitedly, almost bouncing on her feet. "I have a message for you."
Curious, Harry stopped laughing and looked down at her, his green eyes meeting hers with a quizzical expression. Now that he focused on her face, Harry realized he recognized the girl. It was a second-year Gryffindor named Emily, her robes slightly askew and a determined look on her face.
"What's up, Emily?" Harry asked politely.
Emily smiled widely as she realized the famous Harry Potter knew her name. "It's from Professor McGonagall, Harry. She wants you to come to her office after classes today. It's really important."
Harry raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "McGonagall wants to see me? Wonder what for..."
Emily shrugged, looking a bit nervous. "I don't know, Harry. She just asked me to find you and tell you to come to her office after classes. She said it was urgent."
Harry shared a glance with Ron and Hermione. "What do you guys think it's about?" he asked his friends with curiosity.
In response, Hermione shook her head, mind already racing with possibilities. "I'm not sure, Harry, but I guess you'll find out soon enough. In fact, why don't you go to Professor McGonagall's office right now? She said it was urgent and we don't have any more lessons today, after all."
Harry nodded in agreement, appreciating Hermione's practical suggestion. He then smiled down at the small messenger who had tracked him down. "Thanks, Emily. I appreciate you coming to find me."
"No problem, Harry. Good luck!" The small girl beamed at him before turning to leave.
Harry and Hermione couldn't help but chuckle as Emily cheekily stuck her tongue out at Ron before darting past him down the stairs. Their amusement grew as the redhead made an indignant sound and shouted after the mischievous girl, "You little brat! That's it. I'm giving you a detention to you for disrespecting your seniors."
Harry's shoulders were shaking from mirth at his friend's reaction. He wiped tears from his eyes before slapping Ron on the back. "Let it go, mate. She was just having a bit of fun. No harm there."
Ron huffed, conceding at last. "I guess you're right, mate. But still, she could show a bit more respect, couldn't she? I'm a Prefect, after all."
Hermione snorted, an amused glint in her eyes. "Really, Ronald? Now you want younger students to respect you for your position? After how you and your brothers treated Percy when he was the Prefect and the Head boy?"
Ron feigned innocence, placing a hand over his heart. "What do you mean, Hermione? I had the utmost respect for dear Percy."
Harry watched his friends' banter with an amused smile on his face. However, soon, he remembered he had to visit Professor McGonagall's office. "Alright, I'll see you guys later," he told his friends before rushing up the stairs.
Ron and Hermione waved goodbye as they continued their good-natured argument.
It took Harry a few minutes until he finally arrived at Professor McGonagall's office on the fifth floor. Once there, he took a moment to catch his breath, straightening his robes and running a hand through his unruly hair before knocking on the door.
A few seconds later, the stern voice of Minerva McGonagall called out, "Enter."
Harry pushed the door open, revealing the cosy interior of the Deputy Headmistress' office adorned with shelves of books, and magical artefacts. Professor McGonagall sat behind her desk, her stern expression softening slightly as Harry entered.
"Potter, you're here. Excellent. Please, have a seat," she gestured to a chair in front of her desk.
Harry nodded gratefully, taking the offered seat. He tried to read McGonagall's expression, but her face was as inscrutable as ever.
Unable to contain his curiosity, Harry cleared his throat, "I received your message, Professor. You wanted to see me?"
McGonagall nodded, "Indeed. There has been a recent development that concerns both you and the Gryffindor Quidditch team, Potter. So, I thought it best to inform you directly."
For a moment, Harry's heart was in his mouth as he wondered if he was being dropped from the team. Luckily, before he could descend into full-blown panic, McGonagall continued, her expression serious. "Angelina Johnson has transferred to Beauxbatons, and with her departure, the Gryffindor Quidditch team is left without a captain. Given your skill and leadership on the field, Potter, I believe you are the most suitable candidate for the position."
Harry's eyes widened in surprise. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. "Me? Captain? But I've never—"
The professor cut him off, her tone unwavering. "You have demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication during your time on the team. Besides, I've consulted with your previous captain, Oliver Wood, and he wholeheartedly supports the idea. We believe you can lead Gryffindor to victory this year."
Harry hesitated, the weight of responsibility settling on his shoulders. A part of him wanted to accept immediately, but he couldn't help but wonder what would happen if he sucked at the position.
Minerva saw Harry hesitating and she decided to give him a gentle nudge. She reached into the front pocket of her robes and withdrew a gleaming gold badge with a bold red 'C' on it. She gently placed it on the desk before Harry, giving him a small smile. "Wear it with pride, Potter. You've earned it."
Harry's hands shook slightly with excitement as he picked up the badge from the desk. Turning it around in his hand, he could feel all his doubts disappearing by the second. Harry envisioned himself leading Gryffindor to victory in the final against Slytherin, standing before Professor Dumbledore as the Headmaster handed him the Quidditch cup in front of the whole school. 'The deafening cheers of the crowd, the adulation from everyone in the castle.' Harry shivered in his seat, imagining the team carrying him on their shoulders all the way to the Gryffindor common room from the grounds. In the end, the temptation for glory proved too irresistible for Harry, and he decided to accept Professor McGonagall's offer.
Minerva smiled widely as Harry carefully attached the captain's badge to the front of his robes. The golden 'C' shimmered in the dim light of her office. A part of her couldn't help but think the badge looked magnificent on his chest.
Harry snapped out of his daze as Professor McGonagall cleared her throat. She gave him an amused smile before continuing, "I'll leave it in your hands to inform the team of my decision, Potter, and you can also schedule your tryouts as you wish. Good luck, and I trust you'll make Gryffindor proud."
Harry recognized that he was being dismissed. "Thank you for this, Professor," he told Professor McGonagall sincerely, rising to his feet. "I promise I won't let you down."
Professor McGonagall nodded approvingly at Harry's assurance, then made a 'shoo go away' gesture. Her action caused Harry to break into a small chuckle and he left her office with a spring in his step.
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After leaving Professor McGonagall's office, Harry spent the next hour wandering the corridors of the castle in a slight daze. Even in his wildest dreams, he had not imagined that he would secure the position of Quidditch Captain this year. For a moment, Harry's mind flashed back to the summer holidays and how bitter he had felt upon discovering that Ron was appointed the Gryffindor Prefect ahead of him. Harry had tried to act indifferent so as not to hurt his friend, but a part of him had been jealous of Ron for getting the position. However, that was all in the past now. Harry couldn't help but think that being the Quidditch captain was a much better position than being a prefect.
When Harry finally arrived at the Gryffindor common room, he found Ron and Hermione deep in conversation by the fireplace. They looked up as he entered, curiosity evident on their faces. Without waiting for them to ask, Harry grinned and announced, "I'm the new Quidditch captain! McGonagall just gave me the position just now."
The entire common room began buzzing with excitement at Harry's announcement. Ron looked like someone had hit him over the head with a Bludger. "B-but what about Angelina?" he spluttered.
Harry's grin widened as he settled into an armchair, eager to share the news. "Angelina decided to transfer to Beauxbatons. So, McGonagall asked Oliver for advice, and he recommended me for the position."
Hermione, who had been listening intently, beamed, offering her congratulations. "That's fantastic news, Harry! I'm sure you'll make an excellent captain."
"Thanks, Hermione," Harry replied, appreciating her support. He then turned to Ron, who still seemed to be processing the news but managed a half-smile. "You're going to be brilliant, mate. We're definitely winning the cup this year."
Harry appreciated Ron's support; it felt good to see his best mate had such confidence in him. Encouraged by Ron's words, Harry leaned back in his chair. "You said it, mate. We'll crush everyone. But remember, Ron, I'll need a strong Keeper to help us secure those victories. So, make sure you ace the tryouts."
Ron's eyes widened, and a genuine smile spread across his face. "Really, Harry? You think I'll be good as the Keeper?"
"Absolutely," Harry affirmed, clapping Ron on the shoulder. "I've seen you play, mate. You're as good as Oliver when you're at your best."
As he listened to Harry's words, Ron's doubts transformed into a mix of pride and excitement. "I won't let you down, Harry. We're going to dominate the Quidditch pitch! Those slimy snakes have no idea what's going to hit them!"
Hermione couldn't help but roll her eyes as her two best friends began to trash-talk the Slytherin Quidditch team with more than a few insults aimed at one Draco Malfoy. "Boys," Hermione said as she shook her head in fondness before joining her friends in making fun of Malfoy and his ilk.
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As the news of Harry's appointment spread around the common room, people began to arrive, offering him congratulations and their support. Among them, Katie Bell and Alicia Spinnet also made sure to extend their best wishes to the new captain.
Katie was a 5'6" tall brunette with a fair complexion and beautiful hazel eyes. Her black school robes hugged her hourglass figure, accentuating her gorgeous curves and drawing boys' attention to her impressive bust. Meanwhile, Alicia was the taller of the two, standing at least five inches above her friend. With light blonde hair and sky-blue eyes, she presented a striking contrast to Katie. Despite their differences, the two girls had been best friends for several years now, though they harboured a highly competitive relationship. Their competitive spirit was triggered by the smallest things, whether it was a boy or the last slice of pie at dinner.
After conveying their congratulations to Harry, Katie and Alicia walked back to their seats on the opposite side of the common room, each immersed in their thoughts.
The question running through their heads was, 'Who would be the Vice-captain now?'
Finally, Katie and Alicia manoeuvred their way through the crowd of students and arrived at their usual hanging spot in the common room. The two girls sat down on the couch beside each other, each waiting for the other one to speak first. Eventually, Alicia decided to break the silence. "Obviously, we're both thinking the same thing, Kate darling," she began in a low voice, "So, the main thing is how we're going to proceed from here."
Katie couldn't help but snort at her friend's words. "You make it sound so hard, Alicia babe. The answer is obvious, isn't it? Everyone knows I'm a better player than you are, so of course, the Vice-captaincy belongs to me."
Alicia's face twisted into a scowl. "Like hell you're a better player than me, Katie Bell. We've both scored an almost equal number of goals in the past year. Besides, leadership is about experience. And since I joined the team first, the position is mine, bitch."
The two girls glared at each other competitively, both fully determined to not back down no matter what.
Finally, after a few seconds of exchanging dirty looks, Katie and Alicia turned away from each other. As it became clear that it was going to be a fight, both of them huffed and crossed their arms over their chest.
Alicia started strategizing on how to convince Harry that she was the perfect fit for the Vice-captain position. Inside her mind, she formulated elaborate plans regarding match strategies, team meetings, and practice sessions. Meanwhile, Katie was contemplating an entirely different approach. The sexy brunette was eyeing Harry speculatively as she imagined ways she could convince him she was best for the position. She could already think of a few naughty and enjoyable scenarios in which she could show her new captain the benefits of having her as his deputy.
Despite Katie and Alicia each planning something entirely different, one thing was now clear: neither girl was going to back down until one of them emerged victorious, crushing the other into the ground.
