Out on the pitch, Noémie appears to have been out for quite a while. Her hair is rather voluminous on this warm afternoon and she shows signs of wear, though she is now on the ground, surveying two obstacle courses that she has set up for teh tryouts to happen later in the week. Plopping down onto the ground, she leans back on her elbows and crosses her ankles, apparently content just to look at it for the time being.

Clavicle Gravely comes walking out carrying the broom. It upsets him he had to push for Noémie’s time like this, but he has landed a detention the day of the tryouts and has to spend the entire day dusting placques and p[olishing ancient bone models. He sighs afraid that he will be in some trouble with the captain when she finds out, when he stops and blinks at the voluminous hair. “Wow…” he stutters, “That’s a good look for you.”

Having just enjoyed his fifteen birthday last week, Bailey‘s been growing in leaps and bounds and has, unlike some boys, done it with a surprising degree of flair. His shoulders have broadened out, and he’s allowed his reddish-brown hair to fall over his eyes. “Hey, cap,” He remarks as he comes onto the pitch. “Hate to rush you, but I’ve got a tutoring session with Walsh in a bit.” He crosses his arms in front of him, low at the wrists, hunching himself over in a very rebellious looking manner, attempting to appear roguish and dangerously handsome. (He does it half-well, at least.) “So I gotta scatter kinda soon. I’ll get in my tryout, though.”

Coming down onto the pitch Tegan looks out over the course that Noémie has set up. “Hello Noémie…” She says softly as she looks at Clavicle “Her hair is a bird’s nest. What do you mean it’s a good look…” She sits down beside the captain holding ehr broom over her lap. The beater gives a nod to Bailey as he strolls in as well.

“You hush, Madison,” Noémie retorts and scoffs. “If you two hadn’t been caught canoodling on the train, you wouldn’t have detention on Friday and we wouldn’t be here right now.” The girl rolls her eyes, and though her words are somewhat harsh, her tone is more casual. “I s’pose you can join, too, Gravely. Seeing as you didn’t make snotty comments about my hair like some folks.” The girl glances over her shoulder and then stands up, shooting a sharp look to Tegan as she picks up her broom. “Put your brooms aside. We’ll do the ground course first. Alright, line up. You know the drill. I’ll be watching from over here. Don’t fall.”

Clavicle Gravely shrugs, “I think it looks… good.” he grins a bit. His hair is messy as usual. He trots on over to do the ground drills and falls into line immediately. If his eyes linger on Noémie’s hair, the look he has isn’t mocking, rather, it’s the kind of look a boy has when he finally realizes, Hey, Noémie is a GIRL. He shakes the look off his face before the Captain makes him do extra laps for being odd. He whispers to Bailey though, “What’s canoodling?”

“Ask Noémie if she wants to demonstrate. I’m sure she’ll be delighted,” Bailey mutters, and grabs a quaffle, running down the obstacle course and vaulting over the first fence. He’s not running it that quickly — He’s more of a thinky quidditch player and the raw athleticism required for this isn’t his strong suit, but he does run it smartly and well, taking each obstacle with the least effort required.

Muttering as she falls in Tegan rolls her eyes at the captain “Well if you put a little more effort into _your_ appearance _I_ wouldn’t have to say anything.” Tegan sets her eyes forward having left her broom with Noémie’s she begins going through the ground course with a bit of a fast pace trying to hurry herself along it seems.

Clavicle Gravely stays in formation, even though he’s on the ground. He flanks Bailey and slowly pulls closer. “Er… I think you are trying to get her to hex me.” he shakes his head. “I won’t say anything like that till after the tryouts results are posted.” he jumps a fence with a long legged leap. Clavicle is good at the raw physicality of it, and has filled out a bit over the summer. He calls out. “Pass it Bailey!” And opens his hands to catch if Bailey does indeed shoot him a pass.

“I heard that, Bailey! You’ll do laps for that,” Noémie calls and crosses her arms. “You should NOT have been doing it in the train, of all places.” She shakes her head and sighs. “Don’t run around the bludger area, that’s cheating!” She tuts and shakes her head. “And one at a time!” the captain calls. “Come on, work off the summer. You all look stiff — like you’ve never played!” Noémie seems limbered up a bit and she trots along down the line of the obstacle course on the ground. “The bludgers are for dodging! I want to see you dodge! Be nimble!” It all comes out as a stream of orders while she continues trotting up and down.

“You’re such a pain!” Bailey yells back, “You were an Egyptian slave driver in a past life, weren’t you?” He runs through the bludger area and finally really shines, as his natural observation skills let him negotiate it with ease — He leaps back at first as a bludger slams into the ground in front of him, ducks under a second and the dives out of the area into the next area before throwing the ball hard at Clavicle.

The bludger does come close to hitting Tegan a couple of times as she’s distracted by Noémie’s yells. “Aren’t you going to join us Cap… AHH!” Tegan gives a shreik as she jumps out of the way of an oncoming bludger only just in time. Instead of finishing her interupted statment she begins moving a bit faster.

Clavicle Gravely tries being nimble. This makes it look like he’s trying to do some sort of skeletal based dance, or he’s having seizures. But he starts dodging then, back and forth, weaving as he runs. Slowly he finds a more fluid movement that actually doesn’t look like he is suffering from Kneazles in his pants. The bludger zips by him once, and as it comes back around, he spins sideways and barely dodges it again. “Hey! Are those practice ones or the real thing?” he asks, not fully expecting to dodge bludgers on the ground. “They seem a bit aggressive for a practice bludger.”

“Can’t you see the sweat? Like I haven’t done my own work today!” The captain tuts at her teammates and shakes her head. “They’re just the same as last year’s; the only excuse would be that you’re out of practice.” Watching carefully, Noémie crosses her arms and comes back to where she has placed her broom. “Alright, well, you all look like elephants, so get up on your brooms. I want to see you on that other course. But not after you do five laps around the pitch.” She pauses and mounts her broom. “Well, get to it!” Flying up into the air, evened up with the obstacle course in the air, while she attempts to make some sense of her own hair.

“You built up a sweat whipping, Noémie! Wha-kish! Wha-kish!” Bailey makes a whipping motion with his arm before hopping up onto his broom and beginning his laps. He’s a good flier, maybe not the fastest in the world, but precise and smooth. He’s always been a good playmaker for the team.

Hopping again out of the way of a bluder Tegan hurridley skips over to her broom. Taking it tightly in her grasp she mounts it and leaps into the air flying after Noémie “Bludgers can smell fear Gravely, … and hunger. That’s why you should eat before practice.” She calls out in her usual smart allec sort of tone.

Clavicle Gravely takes up the Sandsweeper 25, the foreign broomreally is one of his prized possessions. He takes to the air like a rocket and does a barrel roll as he comes up along Bailey. “Yeah Tegan? Well I am starving. When’s dinner?” the super thin boy does eat like horse at dinner. “I barely got thirds at lunch.” he moves into a tight turn at the laps end, tighter then it has to be, he pushes the envelope as to what the broom is capable of doing. This causes his straw end to drift a little as he races out of the turn and into the straightaway. Flying really is one of his joys. “Bailey! You’re falling behind, come on!”

“Can we just fly and not show off?” the girl calls and shakes her head, seemingly oblivious to the probability that her team will even be able to hear her. Noémie crosses her arms as she watches them make their rounds, though she doesn’t move, other than to try to tame the bush of hair that seems to only get messier as she fiddles with it.

Bailey Williams falls behind a little, but not by much (he flies slow but makes up for it with tight cornering) and descends, hitting the ground. “Alright, Hatshepsut. What now?”

“Boys… always compairing brooms.” Calls Tegan to Noémie. Not bothering to try and speed ahead of anyone, Tegan is just enjoying a nice leasurley lap around the pitch.

Clavicle Gravely lands after Tegan and grins hugely. He’s always grinning after flying. “Can i take one more?” he asks as he steps off the broom. He grins at Noémie and waits to hear what she has in mind for the rest of practice, or rather, this tryout.

“Well, through the obstacle course,” Noémie states, waving her arm at the course in front of her. “You didn’t think that was it, did you?” the girl comments and shakes her head. She flies around along the side of the course. “And let’s not try to get around any of it this time!” the girl calls. “Through all the hoops, too! No slacking!” It seems that Noémie‘s prior workout has put her into quite the mood for this pre-tryout.

Finally finishing her last lap long after the others Tegan smiles watching the bludgers weave in and out of hoops dangerously on what Noémie calls an obstical course. “You know I was only joking about the hair yes? It’s just loverly… you will catch me if I get knocked off right?” Her tone is playful as she speeds forward through the first hoop unscathed.

Clavicle says, “Hey! She never fully landed! That’s … that’s… That’s so Tegan like!” he looks at Noémie and waits for her to give him the ok to take off. “You want us one at a time through it or free for all Captain?” He grins, ready to kick off the moment he gets clearance to.”

“My, my, isn’t someone in a mood today!” Bailey comments and grins as he mounts his broom and flies up again. “Alright, alright, I’m going.” He goes through empty-handed this time, nearly getting beaned in the head by a bludger, but the boy does manage to get through all the hoops, though just barely. “I’ll do it better next time, he calls and laughs loud at Tegan’s comment. “If she won’t, I will!” It’s the first public recognition all day that he’s given to Tegan.

“Go on, go again,” Noémie calls, watching as the team goes through one after another. “Be careful of that hoop,” she calls and does a spin on her broom as she waits for the next of her team to go through. “C’mon, pick it up. Be agressive, stop dawdling,” she barks and sits up on her broom to watch them continue to go through the course. “And, no, Tegan, I will not catch you. It looks like Bailey will handle it just fine.” Pausing a moment. “Get to it!”

Clavicle Gravely upon seeing the others going through the course a bit staggered in time, waits about 30 seconds and then takes off. He uses more care then speed this time as the captain said be careful, but he still tries to be expedient. The bludger homes in on him and he does a quick bank to dodge it and barely makes the second hoop because of it. But his fear of bludgers seems to be nearly gone, “Coming up on three.” he says to himself, and he tucks his elbows in and ducks down, and zips through, hoping the bludger catches the edge of the hoop, and the deep sound of ‘Clonk’ confirms his suspicion it would. “YES! take that you dodgy bludger!”

“Fine! But keep your hands to yourself Bailey!” Yells Tegan back with a snicker moving out of the way of a bludger before finishing the course and flying through again with a bit more speed. “Was that sound your head hitting the bludger Gravely?” Asks Tegan looking a bit chocked as she heard it but didn’t see what happend.

“You weren’t saying that yesterday!” he retorts quickly and grins. “OOF!” Bailey hollers soon after. It is apparent that the boy has been hit in the side by a bludger. “Ow, ow, ow!” he calls as he hastily makes his way out of the obstacle course to nurse his side. “UGH, that was hard!” he complains as he hovers outside the course. “Pass me this time, guys. I’ll go again after this excruciating pain in my side goes away.”

“Please do not break the practice bludgers, either of you!” the captain tells both of the boys practicing and shakes her head. “Oh, get over it. Since when are you a sissy?” Noémie scoffs and watches some more. “Alright, well, I think I’ve seen enough. You’re all terribly out of shape. I’l pose the list after the trials on Friday. If I were you, I’d be nervous.” She shakes her head at all of them and glances around. “Go get your study session, Bailey. I won’t be the cause of you getting flack from Professor Walsh.” She pauses. “And do three more laps in the meantime.” Without another word, Noémie flies down to the pitch and gets off of her broom, stretching a bit in between attempting to keep her hair out of her face.

Clavicle says, “Nah! my head would sound a LOT more hollow, I got the bludger to bean itself on the hoop!” He clears the 4th ring with ease now that the bludger has to recover. He dodges by Bailey, but unfortunately this means Bailey’s bludger locks on to him and now he has two trailing him. “Hey! I was only supposed to have 1.” he complains and then BRAKES suddenly as the bludgers nearly hit him. the braking trick was one he learned from David. he takes off again, zig zagging and jinking hard to dodge the two angry training bludgers. He chuckles a bit. “I swear I think they take this personally.” he turns as he hears Noémie yelling. “I think she’s going to go pro Bailey…and I think she’s going to practice on us.” he sighs.”

Sighing as Noémie puts things and end Tegan pulls out of the course glanceing at Bailey to see if he’s very hurt. When it’s clear that he’s not she smile ad yells at him. “You need to stop watching _me_ on the pitch! It’s going to get you killed one day I swear!” Tegan lands finally and brushes herself off. “Noémie… break and egg in your hair. It works like a charm.” “Well not an actual charm but you know…”

Clavicle says, “My aunt Lombardia Minor showed me a charm to do braids! i can show it to you.. well…sometimes it doesn’t work right.” he hmms, “And as she’s currently bald because of it, maybe it’s not a good idea.”"

Scoffing as Tegan makes this comment, Bailey seems to get over his pain rather quickly. “Well, you’ll just have to make it up to me later, won’t you?” he comments and starts flying around the pitch, performing his three laps as ordered. Soon enough, he has finished his three and lands. “I’ll see you around!” he tells the captain. “Don’t cut me, please!” This is said jokingly, but he seems to have a bit of seriousness in his voice as he makes his comment. “And I’ll see YOU later, Tegan!” he tells the girl and trots off the pitch in the direction of the greenhouse.

Clavicle Gravely Speeds up to do his laps. “Hey Bailey… don’t forget to wax the broom! I got some ‘Mr. ZigZug’s Enchantment enhancing Broom Wax’ It’s supposed to make your broom’s enchantments last longer!” He pours on the speed as he zips through his 3 laps.

Grumbling, Tegan climbes back into the air having forgoten to do her laps, she waves to Bailey as he trots off with a small blush in her cheeks. Agains she takes her sweet time doing her laps because after all the third lap isnt going anywhere till she’s done it and after she finishes she lands makign her way back to the castle in search of food.

“Go on,” she tells them all as they finish up with their laps. “I need time alone to think. This stuff is staying out here anyway.” She offers no further explaination as she collapses to her rear and leans back, much in the way that she was before her teammates showed up for their alternatively scheduled tryout. Noémie‘s eyes seem to glaze over as she stares out across the field absentmindedly.

Clavicle Gravely starts to exit the field after landing, He pauses as he looks back and tilts his head. “Hey.. uh, are you ok? Do you need someone to talk to Noémie?” he asks with genuine concern.

“Time alone doesn’t mean something’s wrong Clavicle. It means time alone, upon which you’re infringing.” The captain glances momentarily up at him and then shakes her head. “Go on, go eat or something. Looks like you could use it.” Noémie shrugs and turns her attention back into the distance, lounging back as she looks across the pitch, more into the sky.

Clavicle Gravely trots on out nodding a bit. “I was just making sure I guess.” he waves to folks as he goes off in search of dinner.

The Divination classroom is clean and brightly lit from the bright sunshine outside the window. The desks are arranged in their usual, neat horseshoe, with two seatings to each. The board is clean from any messes and it appears to have either not been used yet, or have been cleaned since it was last used in a class. Bonnie Kensington sits behind her desk, several books opened in front of her while she waits for the students to arrive for their first Divination class.

Clavicle Gravely comes in flipping some tarot cards about in his hands. he trots on in and looks for a place to sit. He moves to a table and after nodding his head low to Bonnie in greeting, he flops to a seat.

Saphia always looks nervous before a class. Every single one, except for Astronomy and History of Magic, in which she is confident of her ability in all areas. But for Divination, she looks downright terrified. Her posture is stiff, she glances around the room, she hunches over her books (PROTECTIVE BOOKS!) and sits a row back from the teacher, instead of her usual front row position. She seems to be expecting horrible punishment at any moment, and barely squeaks out, “Hi Clavicle.”

Sally Johnston walks in, giggling at some note she is reading. As she notices Bonnie at her desk, she hastily stuffs the note into her pocket and takes a seat at her normal table. Piling her school books on the table infront of her, she watches the professor patiently.

Climbing up into the class and brushing himself off Marcus Winsley doesn’t seem to have grown a single inch over the summer leaving him looking a tad out of place amongst his other third year peers. Waddling to his seat Marcus keeps a suspicious eye out as if looking to avoid somone in particular.

Clavicle Gravely grins at Saphia “Er.. no one is going to lick your books. I don’t think.” he chuckles. “So why are you… slinking and shrinking here? You’re usually at the front up here?”

Dragging her feet along behind her, it seems that even this early in the term, Morgana has been exhibiting some trouble with her sleeping habits. Either that, or she has merely spent the previous night awake until too late an hour with some task or another. She rubs at her eyes with one hand, as though trying to force some liveliness into her appearance, and she stifles a yawn, scoping the classroom for one particular person – and, seeing Marcus, seating herself down next to him uninvited and pulling her Divination things, as well as a piece of chocolate, out of her bag. To Marcus, she nods, her Divination book she opens, the chocolate she eats. Extra sugar boost required for the learning.

Standing as the class filters in and takes their seats in the horseshoe organization of the seats, the teacher pauses behind her desk, as if waiting for them to just realize that they ought to pay attention to her. “Ahem.” A pause. “Hello, third years. My name is Professor Bonnie Kensington. I’m, quite obviously, your Divination professor. Please call me Professor Kensington. Now, if I could have you introduce yourselves, first and last name only, from my left here and then take your seats. I want to go over some basic things in regards to Divination, but first, your names.”

Saphia Bona blurts out her name as soon as she’s called and then doesn’t seem to stop talking, “Saphia Bona, Professor and I’m sorry, I’m so so sorry but I just couldn’t finish the reading,” She seems both utterly apologetic and blithely unaware of the boundaries of the task set to her. “I got through Vablatsky alright and I tried, I really tried to get the Gartner text finished but it was just so long and I couldn’t finish it! I’m so sorry.” She trembles, awaiting punishment.

Cringing when Morgana sits next to him Marcus looks over at her and doesn’t dare say anything to the contrary. Perking his ears as the Professor speaks Marcus waits till it comes to him and stands “Marcus Winsley” He speaks up in that high nasaley voice of his before flopping back down in his seat again while raising an eyebrow at Saphia’s stammering appologie.

Clavicle Gravely smiles a touch at Saphia, “I am Clavicle Gravely, the Third.” he grins at Saphia and shakes his head, “You weren’t supposed to read the entirety of the book Saphia.”

Sally Johnston stands when it is her turn, saying, “Sally Johnston, Professor Kensington.” She then reaktes her seat, crossing her legs at the ankle. She doesn’t say much else. She just looks at the people as they each introduce themselves.

“Morgana DeWitt.” The girl offers in turn, stretching back idly and eying Saphia. Has the Slytherin girl done any Divination reading? Her incredulous expression as she eyes Saphia would indicate not, but perhaps she’s just surprised that anyone would attempt to read the entirety of the textbook. She adds nothing further to her introduction, though she does stretch out lazily, watching Professor Kensington, but also keeping an eye on Marcus out of the corner of her eye. There’s probably some cunning reason for it. Maybe she just likes watching him.

“Alright, well, when I say first and last name only, I mean it. Miss Bona, you are not required to read that entire book this year, let alone before beginning the class; that is meant to last over five years. Mister Gravely, I would appreciate it if you let me run the class from here on out. Now, Divination seems to come with a great deal of stereotypes about what it does and does not include. What have you heard about the subject? What things does it include?” Bonnie turns and pulls out her wand, charming the bit of chalk sitting below the chalk board. It poises itself just away from the chalk board, ready to write down the suggestions. “Discuss amongst yourselves, and I will take what you come up with and clarify it before the end of the class.”

Clavicle says, “Well, my uncle Ulnus taught me to say creepy things to muggles in the carnival. But I don’t think that’s divination, I think it’s bilking.” he shrugs a bit and looks at Saphia. “I don’t know if any Gravelly has ever had the all seeing eye. Is this a subject you can learn or do you have to possess some gift?”"

Sally Johnston shrugs and looks over towards Marcus, saying, “I heard we’d be able to read people’s minds and stuff like that. Didn’t you?” Looking over at Clavicle, Sally winces, asking, “Do we have to touch eyes or something? There’s just weird.”

“Read people’s minds?” Asks Marcus “I don’t think so… you’re thinking of occlumencey… or even the use of a pensieve.” Remarks the large nosed boy looking at Sally as though she had a second head or somthing. “Were going to learn to predict the future though… obviously….”

Having failed to get into trouble (She got in more trouble for apologizing than having failed to read the book! How bizarre!) Saphia seems to calm down an awful lot, and breathes in and out a few times before answering Clavicle, “It can’t be learned, no. It’s a gift, similar to Parseltongue. Either you have it, or you don’t. Well, at least that’s my understanding from the reading. There might be answers in the other half of the textbook that contradicts me. Or in the quarter of the book I read but didn’t even begin to understand. It’s a gift that needs to be developed, however, if it is possessed, you don’t just get it and it’s perfect.”

As is fairly usual for her, Morgana remains entirely silent on the subject for a moment, sitting up a little straighter again and twirling her quill through her fingers. After a moment, she offers, “It is not unlike what we were learning in Astronomy last year – horoscopes, personality predictors, telling the future. Not just horoscopes, of course. Do you not remember Professor Fallon saying that the horoscopes were a part of the Divination course, though?” Clucking her tongue as if her point is the be all and end all of Divination, combined with a tiny bit of derision towards the other students, for not knowing what was so obvious to her, and pride at her own words. A bit too much pride, indeed.

Sally Johnston looks at Marcus, saying, “If you could reach someone’s mind, you’d be able to predict the future pretty well.. Don’t you think so, Morgana?”

“I don’t see how… unless that person can see the future you’re just going to see a lot of useless garbage like gossipe… and the things they do in there every day lives.” Remarks Marcus a bit annoyed. But the boy nearly always looks annoyed so it’s probably nothing.

Clavicle Gravely hmms. “Well I know how to tell people what they want to hear. I doubt that’s what the professor wants.” he sighs. “Bother… I’m good at doing this whole ‘creepy future seeing’ boy thing that makes muggles push money at you.”

Only shrugging in response to Sally’s question, Morgana lapses back into silence. Not so much shy silence, but an almost exasperated silence, as if she believes she is on a mental level higher than the others in the class. Perhaps she does believe such a thing, whether or not it’s true. With a certain adopted lazy superiority (which is really little more than an arrogant carriage and a bored look), she eyes several of her classmates as they speak, shaking her head at a few of them and clucking her tongue again with a certain ‘isn’t it obvious?’ air to others. Her silence is hardly likely to draw compliments, but nonetheless.

“Actually, there is some use in personality predicting and such within Divination,” Saphia nods to Morgana, surprisingly backing her up. “Divination’s all cloudy — It’s not a precise thing straight away. But if you know a person’s personality traits, you can get a better idea of which possibilities make sense and which are spurious. But it’s not just astronomy. You can predict the future by casting runes, reading tea-leaves, looking through dead animal entrails… what?” She looks over to one girl who is looking ill at her words. “It’s true! It’s called Augury!” She sighs and adds, “You can also watch the way mice run around if you want something cuter. That’s called Myomancy.”

Sally Johnston turns pale, and even alittle green at the mention of animal entrails.

Clavicle says, “And the muggles buy anything if it’s gross. you can pay an entire trains refurbishing rate on one village worth of people if you use entrails.” he nods at Saphia. “”We call it, ‘profit’.”"

“It’s not so bad though. It’s just like butchering a hog or some other stupid animal.” Marcus says entirely nonchalant. “You just get the bonus of rooting around through the intestines and heart looking for things like spots and weird tumors. It’s not nearly as disgusting as a plate of steamed broccoli.” Marcus makes a face at the thought of touching the green putrid stuff.

The statement from the Slytherin boy at least attracts Morgana‘s interest, if not her approval; she looks at him, fixing an entirely blank but perhaps somewhat penetrating gaze on him for at least a full thirty seconds, unblinking, before she turns back to the middle of the room without so much as a word. After a further moment, she adds, almost boredly, “I have never understood the concept of reading tealeaves. Who would be daft enough to tell the future to a pile of wet leaves?”

“Then of course, there’s bibliomancy,” Saphia concludes. “I like bibliomancy. I like it a lot. Oh!” Turning to Morgana, she explains, “It’s really more about shapes and signs. Similar to Pyromancy, actually. You look for shapes in the flames. Tea leaves, I suspect, are popular because they also come with a calming drink first. If anyone came up with a technique for divination via the froth on a butterbeer mug, I suspect that would be popular too.”

Sally Johnston looks over at the ravenclaw who talks about are these weird words she’s never heard before. Are they even in the same class?

“What would you call divination via butterbeer froth, I wonder?” Saphia wonders.

“Frothiomancy,” Sally suggests with a giggle.

Clavicle says, “Well some of these forms of divination aren’t so much divination so much as applying a structured order to a chaotic system. These forms are really tools some people use to try to find order in their chaotic lives.”"

Looking over at Saphia, the calm derision easily readable in her expression by even the worst Divination student, Morgana is silent for a moment, just looking at the girl, unblinking, for a period of several seconds. It seems that this, if nothing else, is one of her favourite ways to silence people. Finally, she replies, “I am aware, Bona. My remark is an example of what cultured people call a ‘joke’, so I understand why you may not have been able to comprehend.” She sighs heavily, in exasperation, if perhaps a little bit too dramatically, and leans back in her chair again, rolling her eyes at the ceiling.

Clavicle Gravely immediately looks at Morgana, “And what do cultured people call rude, snobbish prats?”

Having stood aside and listened up until now, Bonnie shakes her head. “Alright, alright. That’s enough,” the woman interjects and holds her hands up. “The accepted versions of Divination are reading tea leaves, cartomancy, palmistry, astrology, yes, bird entrails, and crystal balls. Some of these have been leaked to Muggles, either by way of fraud or accidental mention. Muggles have taken it farther and have even invented some versions of their own. Miss Bona, that is not, unfortunately, an accurate method of Divination.” Bonnie does smile as she mentions this. “One point each to all of you for engaging in discussion. “As for taking this class, we will simply have to wait and see whether your gift presents itself. There is no way to know at present whether any of you have the gift of Seeing. It will develop itself over time with hard work and effective training. Alright, are there any specific questions?” Glancing over her shoulder at the board, there is a wealth of information copied there, haphazardly organized from the discussion that has ensued. “A point from each of you for malicious attitudes toward fellow students,” Bonnie retorts, giving pointed looks to those engaging in the more heated discussion.

Glancing over at the Ravenclaw boy at these words, it seems that Morgana cannot resist the obvious retort. With a smirk and a quiet snort, twirling her quill through her fingers, she offers, “‘Clavicle Gravely’?” Before shrugging vaguely and turning an innocent expression towards the Professor. Malicious attitudes? Never.

Glancing at Clavicle Marcus shakes his head. “I suppose your Uncle Soup-bone told you that Gravely?” Comes Marcus‘s less than friendly response. He has no idea what Clavicle’s family member’s names are so if there is a Soup-Bone it’s an incredibly lucky guess indeed. Marcus stays quiet as Clavicle speaks to Morgana though. Is he supposed to defend her? Marcus looks up to the teacher and decides to take down notes.

Sally Johnston giggles a bit as everyone fights. Meanwhile, she is scribbling down the stuff that Bonnie says, including how she got a point for her house.

Clavicle Gravely is about to stand as well, Family is one of his many buttons, Instead he smiles and holds a card up to his head. “Ohhh…am I ever seeing a prediction.”

Saphia Bona jabs Clavicle with her elbow. “Shush!”

Clavicle Gravely oofs but the narrowed eyes shows he’s not through. He puts his cards away.

Looking pointedly at Clavicle, Bonnie‘s face does not look so pleasant anymore. “Mister Gravely, if you are going to make a mockery of this class, you may leave now.” The woman crosses her arms and glances around the classroom. “Three points from Ravenclaw from that, and I’ll have you know I expect much better behavior from those in Ravenlaw house.” The woman shakes her head a moment and looks around the classroom. “Alright, no questions? I’ll have you all read the first three chapters from the Complete and Unabridged Guide to Everything in Divination, and the first two from Unfogging the Future, and I will want a full six inches for each chapter.” Looking harshly at the students one at a time, the woman pauses and lets this sink in. “Perhaps next time I see you all, you will be better behaved toward your peers.”

Sally Johnston can’t believe her ears. Her jaw drops open at having to read 5 chapters and write 2.5 feet! Eyeing the people who were argueing, she huffs loudly and flips open the Guide to Everything Divination, which is tattered and has weird stains on the over and first few pages, and starts to read.

Summing up in her head, Saphia concludes, “Two and a half feet. I can do that!” She packs up her bags, and happily walks past Professor Kensington on her way out to whisper, “Thank you for not being mad at me. I’ll keep reading the Guide, and I’ll get through as much of it as I can. Although I suspect I’ll only really understand a lot of it in time. Oh, oh, and I had a question. But I’ve forgotten it. Sorry. Maybe I’ll remember for next class?”

“All clear on that? Wonderful.” Bonnie comments and waves her wand harshly at the chalk behind her, causing it not only to fall to its catchall but also break cleanly in half while it sits there. “Class dismissed.” She sits down quickly and glances up at Saphia. “Certainly, ask me whenever you remember it. I’m here all the times posted on the board there, or you may leave a note for me in the staff room. Whatever works for you.”

Groaning at the six inch parchment assignment Marcus scribbles down hurriedly in his notes simply rolling his eyes at the entire situation. He takes his books and notes and carefully places them into his bag knowing that he’s going to have to share them with Morgana no matter what he wants. Marcus stands and makes his way out of the class avoiding Clavicle as he does, after all Marcus isn’t nearly so large as his mouth.

Clavicle Gravely stands and waits “I apologize Professor, I wasn’t thinking. ” he hangs his head low and walks to the door.

Sally Johnston packs up quickly and leaves without a word to anyone. It’s their fault, she’s decided. Then, the red head is gone.

Saphia Bona smiles, and walks out after Clavicle.

Rising from her place at the faculty table and clearing her throat loudly in a meaningful manner, Melvina lifts her hands motions for the room to quiet. The hall is lavishly decorated in blue and silver, as seems the tradition for the current house points holder. “Hello, dear students of Hogwarts term 1926 to 1927. Or, more aptly, I should say, goodbye. What a year it has been! Yes, indeed. But, before we travel much further done this ceremonial road designed to fill our bellies, hearts, and minds until our next fine year of learning, it is my great honor of announcing to you all we have with us a special guest, joining us for a good-will mission of sorts. If you will please direct your attention, and warmly welcome…” withdrawing her long wand from the sleeve of her emerald green robes, Melvina gives the length of cherry wood a dramatic flick. The huge double doors at the rear of the hall swings open slowly, their loud creak filling the room.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely turns curiously to look at the doors with wide eyes. Surely this isn’t normal procedure. He looks around to see if any other students have a clue as to what she’s doing.

(Ravenclaw) The prefect has been until now sitting quietly with Joseph Wexler at her side, looking as if the two of them have been sharing a bit of a secret until the Headmistress has begun speaking. Without another word, Noémie leans out to see who’s joining the lot of them at the feast, biting her lip a bit. Is it someone important? “Who do you think it could be this late in the year?” she asks those close to her and continues leaning out so as to better see the doors at the end of the room.

As the doors swing open to allow a view into the entrance hall, it is Sylvie Winters-Geroff, Minister for Magic, who is revealed standing behind them. Her eyes flit over the tables of students quickly, head not turning, before she takes her first steps into the room. From there it is a straight walk up the middle aisle, somewhat formal dark robes swishing slightly as they hang around her, until she has joined Melvina at the front of the hall. When she reaches it she gives a brief nod of greating to Melvina. “Thank you, Headmistress.”

(Ravenclaw) Riley Markham lofts a brow, shifting his gaze in the direction of the pointed wand — sitting far enough away from Noémie and Joseph that he didn’t feel the need to glare daggers at them, yet near enough to stay in earshot. “Knowing Gran, God only knows,” he murmurs in response to Noémie’s query, though as Sylvie Winters-Geroff strides in, Riley‘s eyes do appreciably widen.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle says, “Hey, that’s the minister isn’t it? But why would she be here?” he looks down at Riley as if he would know. “What did you do this year?” he asks with a grin on his face. “That was a Joke Riley.. I promise.”"

(Ravenclaw) “Well, point taken,” Noémie responds to Riley with a chuckle, grinning at her cousin with a shrug. As the Minister walks in, however, Noémie sits up and uncrosses her legs, trying to look as responsible as one might be able to on a mere glance. She watches with interest as the woman walks up to the front of the room, and the prefect straightens her pointed hat carefully, trying not to stare too gape-mouthed. She’s seen the Minister twice this year now!

Melvina Prichard returns the nod with one of her own, her lips painted with a quiet, half-amused grin that is pertepually a part of her character. Perhaps more so now than on average. She did so enjoy the dramatics. “Naturally, Minister,” she replies, before finishing her introduction to the crowd. “Sylvie Winters-Geroff, Minister for Magic.” She offers some time for the stunned silence and whatever applauses might creep up out of the shock, before pushing on. “The Minister’s time is short, and she has a very special purpose for visiting us today, so I will turn the floor, and my pedistal, over to her. Minister?” Stepping away from the podium from which Melvina usually stands behind, she motions for Sylvie to take it, before returning to her seat.

(Ravenclaw) Kassandra Verkooyen stretches to be able to observe the opening door and immediately straightens as she catches a first glimpse of the Minister. “Oh, Mrs. Winters-Geroff…” she whispers somewhat to herself and smiles as she had never been able to meet her before.

“Thank you, again.” As Melvina takes her seat, Sylvie turns to fully face the students, pausing a moment as she looks over them again before she starts speaking. It’s been a few years since she’s been in this exact position, after all, though many of the older students are still familiar. “I am here today to honor two of your peers, two of the wizarding world’s finest citizens, for their great efforts put forth this past year on behalf of one of your professors.” A very quick glance is directed back at Karina. “Miss Eliza Marlowe, Mister Martin Foster, would you please join me?”

With a startled gasp, Eliza Marlowe springs to her feet, unfolding gracefully to her full height despite the fact that her mouth is still hanging open in surprise. It stays open as she exchanges a glance across the room with Martin over the heads of the other students – then looks back to the Minister, and then to Karina, and then to the Minister again. Slowly at first, and then faster as the initial shock wears away, Eliza strides down the aisle towards the head table, a slow, incredulous smile beginning to spread across her face.

Sylvie Winters-Geroff offers a brief smile to the Head Boy and Girl as they walk forward, waiting until both have reached the front of the room before she speaks again. “Mister Foster and Miss Marlowe played a crucial role in researching and apprehending Immanual Irving, a man who was working illegally to create and test dangerous potions.” She leave the explanation at that; the news of the trial likely spread even to here. “In doing so, they also cleared the name of Professor Sedgewick, for which I know we are all very grateful.” “For their skill, determination, and bravery in assisting the Ministry in this way, each will be awarded the Order of Merlin First Class.”

“What?” Eliza‘s exclamation carries to every corner of the Great Hall, and her mouth hangs open again for a moment after it is done. She looks swiftly over at Martin, as if to check whether he’s heard the same thing that she has. “Order of – First class?” Eliza repeats, her powerful voice barely a whisper now. And then she looks back at Sylvie, gulps, and straightens up, unfurling her shoulders to stand at attention before the Minister. Another smile starts to edge up the corners of Eliza‘s mouth, smaller, wondering, and proud.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely blinks, “That’s the youngest anyone’s ever been given an order I believe. Amazing!”

(Ravenclaw) Kassandra Verkooyen nods at Clavicle, still in disbelief, but delighted of the fact that the Headgirl and Boy already have achieved what others not even can dream about. “Yes, amazing is the right word, I think.” Kassandra smiles.

(Ravenclaw) “I don’t know, I think I’ve heard of them being given to really young people who happened to be in the right place at the right time,” Noémie comments off-hand to those around her before leaning up again to watch the Minister continue on, and see whether the woman will stay around. “My, an Order of Merlin. I don’t know that I’d ever do anything worth getting something like that,” The girl comments to her companion and bites her lip as she continues to watch.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle says, “Keep going undefeated in seeking and you’ll get a good pro sport though.” Clavicle comments to Noémie. “You’re a killer on a broom.”"

Slight smile back as she watches Eliza and Martin’s reactions, Sylvie waits until the large amounts of cheering have died down again before continuing. When it finally does, she turns to face the Head Boy and Girl, taking a single step toward them to present each with the award and offer a handshake. Alongside this she adds, “Thank you, both, for your services. I’m glad to know there are people such as you, and am sure you will both do well once you leave these walls.” She offers another, larger smile to the two, before turning back to the student body at large. “It has been a pleasure to be here with you today. With no further ado, I turn you back to your Headmistress.”

With a steady hand, Eliza reaches out to accept the award, shaking the Minister’s hand firmly with the other. She stands even taller, if that were possible, and her smile shines forth into a full-force grin as she closes her hand around her Order of Merlin. But Eliza‘s eyes are shining with more than pride – as she withdraws from the handshake, she hastily reaches up to scrub at her eyes with the heel of her hand, swallowing hard even amid her smiles.

Rising from the Faculty table after Eliza and Martin have accepted the rewards, Melvina applauds loudly, after after a few moments, motions for everyone to rise and applaud as well. And with some satisfaction, she notes that the applause is both loud and very sincere. “Thank you, Minister, and congratulations to the Head Boy and Head Girl! Let us praise our fine student leaders by honoring the with the school song!” Giving a great, wordless, hooting cheer, the Headmistress breaks in to a very loud, very happy round of largely off-key song, in hopes that the room follows her lead in good cheer. “Hogwarts, Hogwarts, Hoggy Warty Hogwarts, teach us something, please! Whether we be old and bald, or young with scabby knees! Our heads could do with filling, with some interesting stuff! For now they’re bare and full of air, dead flies and bits of fluff! So teach us things worth knowing, bring back what we’ve forgot! Just do your best, we’ll do the rest, and learn until our brains all rot!” And only once the Headmistress-invited standing ovation and song has progressed for several minutes, the Headmistress makes motion for everyone to quiet again. Turning to Sylvie, Martin, and Eliza, Melvina grins, warmly. Obviously quite jovile, even if there is a small mark of seriousness in her eyes. “Miss Marlowe, Mister Foster, please remain there for a moment. Thank you, Minister. I know you have pressing a pressing agenda, but if you could see fit to stay, I’m sure my staff would make room for you at our table. The meals are as lovely still as I’m sure you remember.” The offer made, she looks back to the crowd of students, her rich brown eyes twinkling, “Now, moving right along..”

“Indeed, indeed. Well done, Miss Marlowe, Mister Foster. You have both performed an act and bravery and cunning that speaks well of yourselves and this school. It is with a genuine heart that I, the faculty of Hogwarts School, and your fellow students congratulate you. However,” Melvina notes, the mirth leaving her expression at the note of that last word. The Headmistress’ tone becoming gravely serious. “As prefects, and certainly Head Boy and Head Girl, you of all pairs should know that rules are rules, and are not to be broken lightly, even in the wake of such good tidings or favorable results. Thus, I fear I must make some last moment addendums to our house rankings.”

Stepping back to allow the Headmistress the spotlight along with the two students, Sylvie joins in with the last round of clapping as the room stands up. As the clapping.. and, later, song.. fade off and Melvina resumes her speech, Sylvie apparently accepts the invitation to stay. After all, who would refuse the Hogwarts feast? And the beginning of Melvina’s speech finds her at the Faculty table.

Basking in the glow of applause and praise, Eliza stands at the front of the room, pushing back the tears of joy and pride that threaten to spill out of her shining eyes. She tosses her head back, and lifts her chin higher in a show of strength, struggling to keep her smile from wavering. And then the Headmistress’s next announcement comes – and Eliza‘s expressive face melts into a look of sudden apprehension. She exchanges an entirely different kind of look with Martin now, worried and uncertain.

(Ravenclaw) Kassandra‘s expression fades as the Hufflepuff’s and the Slytherin’s award would automatically mean more points for their houses. “Oh no, we’ll lose our lead in the house points.” she whispers, still admiring, but not really loving the two Headstudents anymore.

“For leaving the school grounds without express permission or escort of myself or one of the school faculity, I find that I must penalize both the Head Boy and Head Girl by twenty points each.” Knowing what an unpopular announcement that will be, especially after such a jolly congratulations, Melvina similar waits and allows that to sink in. Noting those who boo with the same quiet, grave expression.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely That’s outrageous.” he frowns. “I mean sure I want us to win, but really, doesn’t that undermine the minister? Your grandmother is one tough woman Riley. Er.. how about YOU come visit ME over holiday. I can train tigers, whip lions, but she scares me.”

(Ravenclaw) Noémie can’t help but look exceptionally pleased as the other houses lose points. “That secures our win,” she comments. “The Quidditch cup and the house cup.” The girl beams at her companion and watches witha bit of a smug expression.

Eliza lifts her chin higher still – not in defiance, but in acceptance. She stands just as straight and tall as ever, even with the burden of losing her House points as one of her last acts as a Hufflepuff – but Eliza still can’t quite bring herself to meet the eyes of her housemates, or Martin.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely hmmms and shrugs. “I don’t know, Last year they hit us negative then positive. I think we’d better wait and see.”

Once Melvina has let that reality sink in, that Ravenclaw’s lead had become absolute, the Headmistress continues. Her expression equally as serious and tone just as grave. “However, I would be remiss in following Hogwarts policy if I didn’t then, in turn, reward your fine accomplishments as well.” It’s only then than the tell-tale twinkle in her eyes glimmers as she shifts her gaze toward Martin and Eliza. “With dedication and cunning that exemplifies the core traits of both your houses, Miss Marlowe and Mister Foster, you two alone subdued and helped bring to justice a singularly Dark Wizard, and cleared our dear Professor Sedgewick’s name. For that, I have the great pleasure of awarding you fifty points, each.”

(Ravenclaw) Dolly Faeden briefly looks up, having been tinkering with a clock under the table after the chorus of the school song faded out, “Wha’? Oh, well, smatter with losin’ twenty points when they’ve just got the… firs’ class bits? Right? Not like it’ll change their exams or anythin’ important.” A pause in her chatter as Melvina speaks, “See? No matter, they’ve won, then, so it’s all to rights.” She doesn’t wait for a response but resumes her tinkering, eyebrows coming down in concentration. Who cares about feasts and points when there’s a clock she’s supposed to have fixed to show off to grandfather tomorrow?

(Ravenclaw) “FIFTY?” Noémie respons, gawking open-mouthed. “How completely unfair! They shouldn’t get more points than they lost for that! They broke the rules!” The girl says this rather loudly, and her disappointment is apparent. “{Rotten, no good, awful,}” Noémie mutters in French and concludes with some words that would make a french Sailor blush, looking quite annoyed. “Completely unfair,” is all she can end with in English.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely shrugs a bit. “That’s what Riley got last year, and Saphia if I remember right. It fits right with their policy I think. But it ties us Noémie. so we still got a chance for a tie.”

Continuing on, as if not to lose her momentum, Melvina adds in a grand voice, “Further, I award Martin Foster another fifty points efforts that saved the lives of third year Louis Harper and our Professor Rathe while putting himself under great personal risk.” Drawing a deep breath, Melvina grins, quite suddenly, and opens another round of applause, before looking down to Martin and Eliza, nodding that after they have soaked up enough praise, they may return to their tables.

And Eliza‘s grin bursts forth again, spilling over into a laugh of relief and triumph. She reaches over to shake Martin’s hand, and then changes it to an enthusiastic thump on his shoulder. With the momentary anxiety entirely dispelled, Eliza is free to let her joy emerge again, and she strides – no, runs back to the Hufflepuff table to rejoin her housemates for one last time.

(Ravenclaw) Kassandra corrects Clavicle. “No, Slytherin is in front of us…” and as another fifty points are awarded to Martin she sinks in a bit “way in front of us…” her voice fades.

(Ravenclaw) “Nobody asked you,” Noémie responds irritably and it is clear that she is rather inconsolable at the moment. The girl says nothing else, muttering the occasional swear in French as she crosses her arms and her posture fails a bit, hunching over and leaning on the table. “No good Slytherin.” The girl looks quite displeased.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle says, “Well that certainly killed it then.” he shrugs. “But still Noémie. We beat their quidditch team, and we’ll do so again.” he nods stoically. He looks a touch worried at the captain, “We’ve still the best team.”"

(Ravenclaw) Kara Raine‘s shoulders slump at the latest addition to the points. “Fifty? Each!” Pushing her auburn locks from her face she turns to her fellow first years near by, “That will put Slytherin in the lead…” Sighing deeply, she frowns, her next words quite soft. “Would have been nice to have both cups, ah well.”

(Ravenclaw) Shooting a glare to those who address her directly, Noémie continues to brood at her spot on the table, not looking forward or even applauding, despite the fact that someone’s life has been saved. “Might ‘s well go home now,” she comments and sighs, looking around only once more, mostly to glare at those around her before staring hard at the table in front o fher.

“Our Hogwarts family has endured much this term, and by sheer pluck of our students and faculty, we have emerged from the struggle stronger and shining brighter than we ever have. It is on that note, that I also wish to praise Professor Sedgewick and Professor Rathe,” Melvina continues, after the applauses have died down again. “Professor Sedgewick, of course, endured a grueling assault on her character and soul and perserved as best as one could expect. Professor Rathe showed great strength of character and soul in during the trial of Paul Clairwill, and such fortitude and bravery should be rewarded. Thought it would be unfair for me to award house points, or implore upon our dear visiting Minister to grant medals as were just recieved by our esteemed Head Boy and Head Girl, I believe they are each equally deserving of said regards, and we should all be proud of them, and of there connections to us and this school.” Again, leading a round of applause, Melvina then turns to Astra with a grin brimming with genuine pride, and motions to the blue and bronze decorations lining the room. “I believe we have a new House Champion, do we not? If you would do the honors?”

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle says, “Noémie, we beat their best teams, you did actually, you beat them with your training of our team. You should see this differently. Look at their points?! YOU beat that. You lead our team against theirs and we flattened them. So Noémie.. you can do as much if not more then they can too, because you’ve faced both of them on the field, and beaten them both, you lead us, and you are the best captain Ravenclaw has had in I don’t know how long.” he grins. “So they got these points. Great, Next year we’ll get it, and we know we can cause you’ve beat them once already, we just gotta work harder to get more points is all.” he hmms. “A little luck wouldn’t hurt either.” but he looks at Noémie, “But still, There’s the rub of it, they got lucky and were in some situation, that’s all, next year we’ll get them…but good.”"

Standing up, there is a pause as the small woman reaches into her cloak to retrieve her wand. Looking rather perplexed as her name was mentioned, Astra tries to cover up her discomfort with a tight smile and a muttered, ‘my pleasure.’ Following that there she moves swiftly with a snapping motion of her wrist and wand, the banners flip from Blue and Bronze to Green and Silver changing to display from Ravenclaw to Slytherin colors. Astra‘s smile faded during the loss of points, but now she bestows a very pleased expression upon the Slytherin table as she tucks the wand away and retakes her seat without a word.

(Ravenclaw) “Bugger off!” Noémie says rather loudly. “I know we won the cup.” She glares at him again. “Stop being so… smug,” she tells him and turns away, her arms still crossed as she frowns hard. It is clear she is disappointed and not the least bit resigned to the outcome. “Don’t touch me, Joseph,” the girl snaps as her companion tries to comfort her. “Can’t anyone just let me be unhappy for a little while. Why are you all so happy and smug? We just lost the cup because of that heroic… nonsense!” She hmphs and stares hard at her plate, obviously indignant of anyone who is not as put out as she is.

(Ravenclaw) “Well we prolly beat them all on exams, dinnit we?” pipes up Dolly without looking from her clock, not really paying attention to the proceedings except with her ears. “An’ if you think about it, it’ll be scores on exams that show who’s the best at their subjects and the ‘portant exams show what ye get to do outside of Hogwarts. Unless ye were wantin’ ta play Quid’ for a professional team.” Pause, “Even so ye wouldnae had to win House Cup or faught Dark Wizards or anythin’ ridiculous like that. Just good at flyin’ and passin’ and suchlike.” Tinker, tinker, blather.

“Congratulatuions, Slytherin house! Now, only one more thing to say, before we enjoy –” With her still withdrawn wand, Melvina negligantly flicks it at the direction of the tables, summoning the End of Year Feast for everyone to enjoy. “– the fine food which has been prepared for us. This has been my first year at Hogwarts School, but it has been a fine one. Thank you all for that. When I arived, this was an imposing castle, something I remembered from my youth. A daunting job. But thanks to you all, staff and students alike, I felt welcomed, and now, I can’t help but see this place as my home. For those of you students who will return next year, remember that magic use over the summer is strictly prohibitted, and that next year I hope we can grow together as much as we have this one. For those of you graduating and going out in to the world, we have only had the oppertunity to touch each other’s lives briefly, but I hope you will remember me and this place fondly, as I will remember you. My first graduating class as the luckiest woman in the world, Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Eat well.” And with that, Melvina sits, smiling quietly.

(Ravenclaw) Kara Raine Fiddling with the hem on her robe, Kara glances upward, still quite dejected looking as the Ravenclaw colors are replaced with green and silver. “Quite right Dolly, I am sure that we did. ‘Sides, we still have Noémie, and next year our quidditch team will be better than ever with her leading it. We won the one cup this year, next year will will have both. I’m sure of it.” A smile lifts her face as the food appears, eyes glancing around excitedly, “Now, what to eat first.”

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely frowns. “I wasn’t being smug. i was trying to raise your spirits. I apologize.” he states formally and turns to watch the proceedings. ”

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely looks at Riley. He just shrugs and pushes his plate away, not eating at all. “Why would she think I am being smug when all I am doing is trying to make her feel better?” he shakes his head and just waits to be allowed to go, turning away from Noémie for sure and just staring off to the faculty table.

(Ravenclaw) Dolly Faeden looks up as the speech ends and the food arrives and with an audible, “Oh thank ‘eavens,” she stuffs the clock in her bag, finds a plate of something that looks difficult to chew and passes it toward Clavicle while taking a few rolls from another basket herself. “Nonesense not ta eat this feast, unless yer Da’s a good deal better’n mine at cookin’.” Some more food is taken and passed this way and that, and she sets to stuffing her mouth and muddying her brain rather than dealing with the perplexing emotions of older people.

(Ravenclaw) Riley Markham makes a loud hissing sound, somewhat muffled and mollified by Melvina’s genuine words. “Because she’s pissed, Clavy, ’cause we lost, an’ so am I,” Riley responds, curtly. Not so much at his housemate, but largely at the situation. “Bloody rank, is what it is. Holding the lead all year to lose it now. What say you we give Mister Order of Merlin, Dumb Class a good jinxing after this is done?” The shaggy-headed second year says to Noémie, rather quite meaning it.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle says, “Because no one jinxed you last year when YOU got 50 points did they Markham. So it’s all fine and good for you to break the rules and go off and be a hero, but if someone else does it they deserve a good jinxing eh?” he shakes his head. “Surely you can see there’s a similarity, i would expect you of all people to see that Markham.”"

(Ravenclaw) “{Raising my spirits after we just} lost to stinking Slytherin…” the girl comments, half in French, half in English and sighs, but now tehre is food before her. “Oh, food,” she comments blandly and reaches out to start spooning things onto her plate. The girl’s plate ends up quite full, almost defying that it might all be eaten, but without another comment she begins to eat. “Oh, stuff it, you two,” she tells the boys. “Just eat the food. We’ll just have to work harder next year to get it.” Noémie is clearly in a sour mood as she begins to eat some potatoes rather quickly.

(Ravenclaw) “Honesly! Shut up an’ eat, you lot, ya’r killin’ me appetite,” intones Dolly a bit crossly, though from the heap of food on her plate (and the fact that she’s talking with her mouth partially fully) her appetite is a long way from the grave. She does sit up a little straighter at Noémie saying it, adding, “She’s a Prefect, ye know!” Sassy little firstie today, isn’t she?

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely just shakes his head. He doesn’t fill up his plate or anything. He begins polishing his flute.

(Ravenclaw) Riley Markham simply shrugs, passing off Noémie’s anger and Clavicle’s reasonableness with the singular act. “Haven’t you heard, Clavy? All’s fair in love and war.” He does reach out to help himself to the same bowl of potatoes that Noémie took copious amounts from, and mutters something about a Boogie-Foot Jinx being just the thing.

(Ravenclaw) Clavicle Gravely just shrugs silently.

Clavicle Gravely comes down the passage and whispers the password. The secret entrance is opened and then a knock comes. “Professor?” comes the voice, a bit apprehensively. “Professor are you home?”

Lessons are finished for the day and with it, Astra‘s work. Having taken shelter in her suite of rooms, the face the professor wears at home is different then the one she displays publicly. Her boots are kicked off and her feet are covered in warm fuzzy socks, her clothes while still her typical garb are not so neatly tucked in and a masculine dressing gown of Chinese silk hangs loose and open over it all. Ensconced in one of the chairs, she’s quite curled up into it and nursing a cup of tea over a book. Hearing Clavicle’s voice, she turns her head in his direction and arches both brows. “Ah, Mister Gravely it’s good to see you. Please, make yourself at home. I’ve made up a pot of tea if you’d like some and there’s food to be had if you want.” “What can I do for you?”

Clavicle Gravely comes in and looks at his feet. He has not the first idea how to start this conversation. But he manages to as he raises his chin and sits. “I think I am having an issue…with um, women.” he nods. “And I don’t know whom to talk to about it, I know it is far off our normal talks, but I was hoping, you could advise me, maybe off the record as I don’t want to get anyone in trouble.” he chews his lip, “But I am at an impasse.”

“Women.” Her tone is flat and Astra narrows her eyes just a little, she says nothing more as she sips at her tea and then closes her book, setting it off to a table beside the chair. “I think you mean teenage girls and not women, the two are not the same creature.” Contemplatively, she adds, “I suppose though that the former does think itself as the latter.” Shaking her head, she gestures to the couch. “Sit down.” “Now then, you like someone and don’t want to wind up in trouble then? That’s what I’m gathering.” “What’s going on?”

Clavicle Gravely ahs, “I meant no disrespect Professor of course. ” he blanches a bit. “But I am confounded. Completely. The trouble is probably not whom one would expect. It is with…Kelly Pantall.” he looks at Astra to see her reaction to that. “And I thought I was a friend to her and her to me, nothing more, but suddenly she’s vitriolic, hateful, physically abusive, and well… a spoiled brat. I don’t know what I did. She’s made her disinterest in me plain so I never pursued her, As I am still interested in Miss Bona, However, It’s .. Well I don’t know what I did, and we were friends…” he says this with more passion showing. “And I don’t know what I did to make it not so. It’s not as if there’s a lot of people…as strange as I am, and she is one, but now suddenly I am her nemesis. And I don’t know if it’s because I was supposed to pursue her and didn’t, Or if she thought I was, or if even she was interested in me and somhow…mad that I somehow threatened her sworn love of Martin.”

“First of all, I don’t care what men have said over the years. I don’t care what lies people say about females ‘wanting a man to chase her’. The simple fact is if a female says no, she means it. Do not provoke that and do not push it.” Leaving that lecture off, Astra sighs heavily and wipes at her eyes, “Love for Martin? That’s rather sad and misplaced given the fact that Martin is to be engaged.” “As for you, did you at any point try to form a relationship with Miss Pantall? Did you let her know of any feelings on your part aside from those of friendship?”

“I told her she was a friend and one of the few I had. She kepot going off on me. Hit me once or twice and at first I just.. allowed it.” he shrugs. “I don’t really have a lot of friends my age. She kicked one of my dancing skeletons and I yelled at her,” Clavicle‘s dancing skeletons are some of his uncle’s enchanted to seem alive toys, he’s given a few and sold a few but in typical Clavicle fashion, he sees them as more alive then not, ” but she apologized. But after that sudenly every conversation was ‘You know I am in a relationship’. And I would say yes, but she broke up with someone and I was interested in her well being, and she seemed to take it as an attack.” he looks at Astra, “Can’t she just be a boggart and I riddikulus her?”

“I cannot make a proper judgment regarding this as I do not know what was said between the two of you. You will have as much personal bias in this as she will, I’m afraid.” Sipping at her tea, Astra casts a scrutinizing look at Clavicle before letting her eyes wander around the room. “As for Miss Pantall, I would simply keep away from her and allow her time to cool off. Do not pursue her, do not show any interest in her aside from that of friendship. If I remember correctly she doesn’t have many friends either except perhaps that Hufflepuff boy, Rafe DeWitt.”

“It’s just a better name, Satinka, hands down. Poe-inspired, you can’t go wrong. And don’t try to convince me otherwise,” Seker says, raising a hand and placing it carefully in his sister’s face, just short of touching her, as he walks out of their room. Entering the common area of their residence, though, Seker‘s pace slows to a halt and he withdraws his hand. “Oh, company,” he notes, smiling a little. “Hi Clavicle,” he says, only to be distracted for a moment. He looks to his mother, asking, “Mum, tell Satinka that names should mean something. And, when are we getting our pets?” he adds, perhaps bringing some insight into what he’s talking about.

“Oh, honestly,” Satinka responds with a scoff, crossing her arms over her chest. “Mister Wicked is a perfectly respectable name. It’s gads better than yours at any rate.” She rolls her eyes and comes to stand near her mother and then pauses. “Who are you?” she asks, giving the boy a peculiar look before Seker asks this question of their mother. “Yes, mum, I’m dying for a kneazle! Can’t we go to the store now and get them? You said we might have pets.”

Clavicle Gravely clams up as the twins enter and looks to the professor, “Er, Yes that is actually mmuch better advice then how I handled it so far.” he hmmms. “I er… told her she wouldn’t have an opprotunity to handle me poorly again.” he frowns and then stands and bows to the two children, and using sleight of hand he ‘magically’ makes a poof of flowers appear, which he offers to Satinka.

Trying to digest the sudden intrusion and conversation on the part of her children, Astra sighs heavily. “Seker and Satinka, I’m trying to have a conversation with Mister Gravely.” Still, she is a mother and can’t really ignore the pair very easily. It isn’t as if the two of them in a room makes them easy targets to *be* ignored. “I’ve told you before Seker, you will get an owl from grandfather and Satinka have I not said you must choose a cat, a toad or an owl? Grandfather would like you to have an owl of course, but if you’d rather have a cat that’s fine.” Dealing with family business, she takes another mouthful of tea before continuing. “Yes, names are very important but be careful what you choose. Look at what happened to the both of you.” Grinning mischievously, she’s clearly teasing the twins as a parent will. “Satinka, this is Mister Clavicle Gravely he’s one of my proteges.”

“That’s Clavicle,” Seker supplies helpfully to Satinka after Astra introduces him. “And you aren’t getting a kneazle! It’s like mum said,” Seker says, sighing. “Kneazles aren’t cute anyways, Satinka,” Seker discloses. “Their noses are all pressed in. You’d be far better off getting some kind of tabby. Actually, I see you with a Persian. Maybe a kneazle would be suiting,” Seker says, tilting his head. Looking to Astra, Seker asks, “When are we going to see grandfather? Can’t we go tomorrow? You don’t have to come, Satinka and I can use floo on our own,” Seker says confidently.

“Oh, I can use Seker’s owl, I don’t want one. I want a kneazle. It’s almost a cat, mum. It should count.” She crosses her arms, only to uncross them as Clavicle presents her with flowers. “Er, thanks,” she says, quirking an eyebrow and looking at the flowers as if they’re some peculiar being before setting them down on the table. As Seker pipes up, her face lights up. “Yes, we could just go while you’re at classes, and get them with Grampa!” Satinka grins and steps closer. “/Please/, mum? We want them ever so much. And I’m sure it would be useful for them to get used to Hogwarts now, that way they don’t get frightened by a new place with so many people in it.”

Clavicle Gravely chuckles a bit as the flowers just evoke an ‘er…’ He bows with a flourish. “Of course Madame. You would always be welcome at the Shadow Emporium.”

“Ah that’s the Rathe in her; at least she’s better behaved than I was. I would have scowled at you and said something mean before throwing the flowers on the floor and stamping on them. Of course, then my father would have hit me, but the point remains. She’s as much my daughter as her father’s, for better or for worse.” Sighing, Astra reaches up to rub her forehead. “Children, you will not be going anywhere without me. I’ve arranged for you to see Grandfather after school lets out and we’ll get your pets then. They can stay here for the summer and get acclimated.”

“That’s a long time, still,” Seker notes, crossing his arms and glancing at Satinka shortly, a bit of a glare in response to her treatment of Clavicle’s flowers. “Aren’t you going to put them in water?” he asks with a bit of an edge before looking to Clavicle and shrugging. “She’s quite girly, but not much of a lady,” says Seker, “so, don’t mind her.”

“You can do it if you want,” Satinka tells her brother, thrusting the flowers toward him with a shrug at the flowers in her hand as she looks back to her mother. “It’s ever so long,” she agrees and sighs a bit. “Can’t we go a little earlier? Next Hogsmeade weekend or something? I really think it would be better if I got my kneazle before all the kids leave so that he can get used to being around so many people.” She glances to Clavicle then, her eyebrows raising. “Welcome at… what?” She tries hard not to make this sound as if she thinks it the oddest name she’s heard all day, but being only eleven-going-on-twelve, finds this difficult, and the look on her face says what she is trying not to let into her inflection anyway.

Clavicle Gravely chuckles “The flowers are silk, It is a muggle magic trick after all.” he smiles. “But I would expect nothing less from a lady of refined tastes.” He bows again to Satinka. Polite to a fault, the showman in him doesn’t allow him to rise to stings and barbs that Seker implies, rather, he answers her, “You would be welcome at the Gravely Shadow Emporium and Autumnal Carnival.” he says pronouncing each capital with pride. “I’ve arranged already for you and Seker to have free admittance.” he grins. “We recently acquired a Bogart in a special cage which doesn’t allow it to escape, regardless of the form it takes, I am told by my uncle Ulnus it is quite thrilling.” he smiles. “But I believe the two of you were talking about Poe? May I ask what about? It is a favorite subject of mine after all.”

“The carnival Satinka, the one I took you and Seker to a couple years ago?” Trying to jog her daughter’s memory without being too rude, Astra finishes off her tea and uncurls from her chair. Standing up, she crosses the short distance to the kitchen area. Smiling for Clavicle’s response, she does not interfere except with a small sigh. “I do not think that they will be going this year. School and all, they get Sorted this year.” Not so subtle is her hint of motherly pride as she searches the back of a cupboard for a certain bottle. Taking it off the shelf, she then reaches inside the dressing gown pocket for the ever-present flask and fills it up. “There will be *no* kneazle Satinka, you know that.” Trying very hard not to sound flustered, “And I’m very sorry that you both have to wait, but you still have lessons and I still have work. We’ll go at the end of term and no sooner.”

Upon hearing that the flowers won’t be requiring any water after all, Seker merely comments, “Oh,” and sets them down, back where they were. Reinforcing his sister, though, he looks to Astra pleadingly before adding, “Yes, they have to get used to large crowds or else the summer months of student vacancy will lull them into a false sense of security,” he reasons. “Our pets, I mean,” he says, looking to Clavicle. “Not trying to change the subject,” he says quickly. “It was a brilliant fair,” Seker asserts with a nod.

“Oh, right,” Satinka answers. “I forgot the name.” This is said simply and she shrugs as she listens while Astra continues to speak. “But, mum, it’s practically a cat. They’re nearly the same thing! It should count!” Trying not to look too upset or sullen, she crosses and then quickly uncrosses her arms. “It’s such a long wait, mum, and completely unfair. First we had to wait to be sorted, and we didn’t put up too much fuss about it, but this is much smaller and easier to rectify. Can’t we just get them on the next Hogsmeade weekend? I’m sure Grampa would be willing to take us!” She frowns, and it is clear that she has to work not to push her bottom lip out as was her habit as a smaller child.

Clavicle Gravely grins and nods to Seker. “And you…I didn’t forget. I got a temporary tattoo for you. It will only last 1 week, But it is guaranteed to seem real.” he pulls out a small wrapped package, it is marked ‘Temporary Tattoo, Skeletal Falcon’. “It uses a henna base in the anchantment, and a printing block instead of a needled block. If it is alright with your mother I shall give it to you, but as we are doing mresearch on whether it will be popular enough to sell at the carnival, I would need you to tell me how you liked it.” He grins at the kneazle discussion and drops in, “You know there are half kneazles, and if the mother was a cat, they count.” he nods sagely.

“Yes, yes he can have it. He’ll have permanent ones someday if he takes up the Rathe tradition.” Speaking before her son can even beg her for it, Astra caves on that issue without any prodding. Glancing sharply at the three kids, she makes a huffing noise. “Cat or owl, I don’t suppose Satinka *wants* a toad. There will be no kneazle or half-kneazle running around. The last thing I need is everyone saying my children get special treatment because of their mother. No, they’ll be treated like everyone else.” “I’m sure your pets will get used to big crowds. I’m going to be here a lot this summer and I’m going to have Grandpa take you both to London to see Peter and Grandmother, then it’s off to Paris with Arnauld and Blair. You’ll have plenty of time to get your pets used to others.”

Too excited about the temporary tattoo to mind much, now, about the absence of his will-be owl, Seker takes the thing with a grin. “Thanks, too right I’ll let you know how I like it,” says the boy, a bit of rare colour flashing into his cheeks. “Where should I put it?” he asks Satinka. “I’m doing it right now,” he states, stepping towards the twins’ room slightly.

“Fiiiine. But can I get one later?” Satinka asks. “You know, just to… keep in here for summers?” She still wants the kneazle after all. “How long are we going to be in France this summer? Uncle Arnauld promised to teach me Italian if we’re there long enough.” She grins as she says this, as if it is the one thing she’s waited for quite a while. “Ugh, tattoos,” she responds to Seker. “Put it somewhere that I can’t see it.” She tells him and waves him off. “By the way, mum, if I’m going to learn Italian, I’m going to need some books. I want to get a head start.” A wide smile spreads over her face as she states this.

“Yes Seker, the directions are simple, Just place the Block against bare skin and it will magically transfer. Though if the block wiggles in a lifelike way for a moment, that is merely how it applies itself.” he nods. “We’ve a whole line of permanent self applying products.” The infamous tattoo block that Clavicle used in the great hall once that made a few people lose their lunch in his first year may be a story still floating around. But the block apparently came to life to insert the needles. “After it is upon you it will come to life, the tattoo. and you can train it, But don’t abuse it, or they get mad.” he nods. “My father accidently insulted one of his tattoos once, It stayed upon his nose holding a sign that said ‘rude git’ for several days till he placated it with a tattoo’d hat.”He smiles and looks to Satinka, ” Would reducto… upon a tiger count as a cat?” he wonders aloud. “Probably not. ” He shrugs, “But I wouldn’t worry Madam Satinka, if the creature was raised to be the pet of a Enchantress or Witch, The creature seems to possess a greater intelligence. I think they’ve special breeds that the muggles don’t get. To be honest, I never really asked. But your cat, or owl, I am sure will be delightfully intelligent.” The boy grins, “Italian, Such wonderful catacombs there.”

“Going to Italy would better improve your chances of learning than from a book, but we’ll pick some up. Old greybeard tried to teach me the language, bah, simply had no time for it. It’s a pretty country though.” Stopping off the flask, Astra returns it to the pocket of her dressing gown and refills her cup with tea. “Shrinking a tiger would not count as a cat, no. Please let’s not even go there.” “As for the rest, yes, wizard animals are not the same as their muggle counterparts. For one, they tend to be larger. They are also longer lived and more intelligent. Not that I know much about magical creatures, just a few things I gleaned from my father and his breeding of them.”

Glaring once more at Satinka, Seker threatens, “I’ll put it on my forehead,” as a joke as he turns on his heel. “Thanks again, Clavicle. If I see you tomorrow, I’ll show it to you and you can see how it turned out,” says the boy on his way out of the room. “Satinka, don’t you at least want to see me put it on?” He taunts as he disappears from the doorway.

“I wouldn’t want an icky tiger anyway. I want a kneazle.” Satinka sighs as she says this for what hopes to be the final time this confrontation. “At any rate, I’ll learn Italian this summer, mum, and then I can work on Welsh next summer.” She pauses. “I wouldn’t complain over going to Italy if you wanted to send us, though.” This is said almost too eagerly for the nonchalant expression that the girl seems to be trying to adopt. She crosses her arms again and then uncrosses them, reaching down to pick at her skirt. The girl looks over her shoulder and then sighs. “Well, alright, but only if you promise not to put it on your forehead or your wrist or something stupid like that. At least put it in a respectable place.” She shakes her head and starts following Seker into their quarters, only pausing to wave to her mother and the company as she disappears nto the room and closes the door.

Clavicle Gravely smiles as the two kids leave and he looks down. “Thank you for your advice Professor.” he shrugs. “I don’t even know why I feel it’s so important, except I miss her as a friend.” And maybe he was attracted as well, but who can tell, He’s been in competition for a girl’s affection whom hasn’t noticed yet that boys were quarreling over her. So perhaps he is as well, focusing so much elsewhere that he doesn’t know what he’s feeling truthfully. “My parents as well send their regards to you. As well as my Uncle who’s asked after your health quite often.” The infamous Uncle Ulnus.

Sighing as the children leave the room, Astra again sinks into her chair. “They don’t even know their native tongue. It’s sad. It’s terrible! I can’t believe their father didn’t see fit to teach them.” “Well it isn’t much advice really. I was never one to have romantic encounters in school and when I fought, I fought bitterly. Better to keep away than aggravate the situation.” “I’m sorry that you’ve lost a friend, but you never know there may be another waiting around the corner.” “Give your family my best, including your uncle.” Smiling a little she takes another sip of tea.

Clavicle Gravely nods a bit and grins at her, “Oh, I’ve a great uncle near the Collisseum in Rome, If you tell the keeper near the catacomb entrance ‘A grave concern the gravely makes, when it seeks a grave awakes.” he will show you the first wizarding Necropolis. He’s an elder chap, Brachio Majorus Gravely the 4th I think is his name. Or is it 3rd? I always forget.” he shrugs. “I doubt Satinka would like it, But Seker might.” He bows with a flourish and rattles off something in Irish Gaelic, probably a comment to her conundrum.

“I’m afraid I know not your tongue my lad, similar though it is.” Smiling a little, Astra heaves a sigh, “Someday they’ll learn it, I hope.” “I’ll keep in mind what you say about Rome, but I doubt I’ll ever go. I’ve given up the dream of traveling with the many responsibilities I have.” “Speaking of which, I ought to get some more work done.”

Clavicle Gravely bows with a flourish and backs towards the door. “Goodnight Professor Rathe.”

Astra Rathe raises up her cup in a fake sort of salute. “You too Mister Gravely.”

Rhian Brecon settles in her seat at the announcer’s booth and after a quick test she starts of. “Good afternoon Hogwarts! It may be cold out here, but we’re all warming up for a good match today. Today we have my own house, Ravenclaw versus Slytherin. As a reminder, Ravenclaw is led by Noémie Ribouet, Fifth year Prefect and Seeker for the Ravenclaws, while the Slytherins are led by Martin Foster, this year’s Head Boy and one of Slytherin’s Chasers. Today’s match is being officiated by our Professor of Herbology, Professor Walsh. Well, now that the boring part is over, we now wait to welcome the two teams to the pitch.”

Keelan Walsh waits, as usual, at the center point of the Pitch for the teams to arrive, sitting somewhat comfortably on the box containing the balls, her broom propped up against it as well. Today, with Slytherin on the field, she wears robes of a rich green, and has threaded silver through her braid today. As the announcements begin, Keelan looks up from a small book, and then toward the entrances. With a small smirk, she rises, and clasps her hands together, waiting.

Ah, a beautiful sunny day awaits Noémie as she steps out onto the pitch in the cold, late-winter air. Walking quickly to the center of the pitch where Keelan stands. Perhaps it is Noémie‘s imagination, but she does seem to see a few extra signs rooting specifically against her in the stands today. Shaking her head quickly, she gives a smile to Keelan and looks behind her as the rest of her team follows onto the pitch.

Making there way onto the pitch together in Slytherin’s last match of the year Louis and Martin both looked primed and ready to go. Louis comments to his captain after looking around the stands of the pitch and spotting a large sign with “Go Martin! Go Louis! Slytherin’s Dream Team!” written on it in large glowing green letters. “Looks like we have fans Martin, …. wait is that … it is! It’s the sign girl.” Louis shakes his head and Martin chuckles softly and gives his seeker a pat on the shoulder. Both boy’s waste no time climbing onto there respective brooms and getting into position in the air.

The seventh-year Ravenclaw keeper makes her way onto the pitch with the rest of her team. Feeling very sentimental, the idea that it’s the last time she’ll ever play Slytherin team seems to cause her to tear up a bit, and Van takes a deep breath. The Slytherin team is rather boisterous for her own taste (though Ravenclaw team is rather comparable, it’s different when they do it, of course), but she says nothing, instead coming to stand near Noémie and wait for the usual opening formalities.

Following the other members of the Ravenclaw team on the field, David and Clavicle are trailing behind. David is clutching his own tightly, and observes the Slytherin team, while Clavicle adjusts his gloves. “I wonder how the match is going to go…” whispers David to the other Chaser. “But this time, we’ve trained a lot more than last year, haven’t we?” he says, trying to sound confident. Yes, they are going to fly against Slytherin, but this is not David‘s first match anymore, and eagerness has replaced apprehension.

Bouncing excitedly, one would think that Bailey ate half of the sweets at Honeydukes before coming out to the pitch for the match. “Whooo, Ravenclaw!” he calls, waving his arms up in the air before coming to stand near Van, and rather distancing himself from Tegan, though a furtive glance is given in her direction. The chaser doesn’t say another word, though there is a large grin spread over his face.

Ashton Merck walks onto the field following his captain. With a confident smile he waves over to the Slytherin bleachers, raising his broom into the air and enjoying the atmosphere which seems to pervade him totally. “They look frightened, don’t they?” he chuckles, adressing Adalynn, the Slytherin keeper, who is walking a few steps behind him and seems to be more concentrated on the match than on the opponent’s feelings. Both of them stand in line with their teammates, nestling on their brooms and adjusting their gear, waiting for the game to begin.

Tegan Madison takes short but fast strides along the pitch, not very formiddable on the ground. She shifts her broom to one hand and tucks her bat under one arm in order to adjust her scarf and rub her nose. She comes up alongside her teammates, face set in determination. Her nostrils flare a bit as she overlooks the Slytherin team, and if her face softens as she looks nearly from the other end of the Ravenclaw lineup at Bailey, it’s hardly noticeable.

Sage Cloverwood and Tahiri Sol are following Ashton, their own broom over their shoulders, and sporting a set of matching confident smiles as they appear on the pitch. “Ah… the ickle Ravenclaws… I’ve heard they’ve trained quite a bit. But that’s because they couldn’t stomach their defeat, last year. I’m not afraid of them.” says Sage, and she readjusts her hair as she waits for the team to take off. Tahiri, in the meantime, just nods and observes the pitch, already concentrated on the match to come.

Clavicle Gravely nods to David as he walks in. The boy seems a lot more confident this game then last. His nevous step is gone and he grins up at the stands. “Come on David, we have to do the noble cry of the Ravenclaw.” He chuckles. He steps out from the line a bit and wavs to the stads. “AUK AUK!”

Keelan Walsh smiles back at Noémie, but mostly because it’s polite to do so. “Alright, teams. I don’t want to see any funny buisness,” she looks more harshly at the Ravenclaws than the Slytherin, of course, “I won’t hesistate to award penalties.” A grim sort of smile surfaces momentarily and then visably softens into a grin, “Captains?” She waits expectantly for the hand shake, and then opens up the ball box and lets the snitch fly. Taking hold of the Quaffle, Keelan lofts it into the air with one hand and blows the start-of-match whistle with the other. A minute or so after the teams are in the air, Keelan releases the bludgers, which whistle into the air after the players. Shortly, the referee mounts her broom and flys up to circle around the perimeter, eyes on the players.

Noémie‘s hand darts out for a quick-but-firm handshake with the Slytherin Captain, and then withdraws it nearly as quickly, taking her broom and mounting it. Soon, she is flying very quickly up, up, up above the stands and into the air far above the hoops and all the action. “Let’s do it, Ravenclaw!” she calls down to her team, though whether they hear her or not is debatable. She begins to fly in large ovals above the pitch, her eyes scanning the sky quickly.

Kicking off the ground, Van flies at a moderate pace towards the Ravenclaw hoops. She doesn’t appear to be in much of a hurry, though her face is set, and she takes her place in front of the goals, turning to survey the action, and find out who gets the quaffle. After all, if it’s her own team, she has reason to relax a bit for the start. The seventh year’s attention seems to become distracted to the stands for a moment, as a hastily waving Gryffindor stands out among a sea of blue scarves and banners, causing the seventh year to shake her head with a bit of a grin.

“All right, let’s go!” shouts David, mounting his broom and taking off, positioning himself near the center of the pitch at a low altitude, near the other Chasers. As soon as the Quaffle is thrown in the air, David steers his broom towards it. By pure luck, it was thrown somewhat in his direction and David catches it without difficulties, and he immediately flies towards the Slytherin goals. A quick look is given to his teammates, to assess the situation. “Clavicle, Bailey! Cover me!” he shouts as he tries to fly his way through the Slytherin line.

Rhian says, “And here they come, both teams coming out into the field, and after a type of acknowledgement from the captains, I think… the two teams take to the air. Now we wait for Professor Keelan to release all four of the balls so that the game can actually begin. There goes the Snitch, and the Quaffle is in the air! And it is Ravenclaw that claims the Quaffle, by David Mildred at the start of the match. The bludgers are now released. This game is now underway!”

Rising in the air Louis is already peering around the pitch with eyes squinted looking for the snitch. Obviously the best time to catch it is before any side score right? Martin, having shaken Noémie’s just as quickly gets a steely expression on his face and begins flying toward the quaffle trying to be the first to get it. Louis grins a bit to himself before yelling out. “Don’t worry Ravenclaw! We’ll try not to beat you too badly!” Nothing wrong with a little competitive ribbing right?

Following David sharply, Bailey makes his way down the pitch, ducking to avoid a bludger which flies a little too close to him for comfort. “Wide!” Bailey calls to Clavicle as Bailey himself widens the berth between David and himself, flying near the edge of the pitch. He glances behind him and scowls a bit at the Slytherin chasers. “Someone take care of them!” he calls, the annoyed tone in his voice rather apparent as he directs his gaze to Tegan and then to Riley, before turning it forward again.

“Let’s go and hunt some Ravens down!” says Sage, swinging her bat in the air as she mounts her own broom and takes off, following her teammates. Tahiri calmly follows suit, without Sage‘s vulgar and simplistic display of house spirit. As the Bludgers begin to be dispatched in the air, Sage nods to Tahiri. The communication between the two Beaters is going on smoothly. Understanding what is to be done, Tahiri flies toward the Bludger which is flying over the Ravenclaws stands. On the other side, Sage tackles the other Bludger, which she reaches quickly and sends towards the Ravenclaw chasers with a quick and precise swing of her bat.

Ashton Merck briskly mounts his broom as the referee’s whistle is about to be blown. His eyes focussed on the quaffle, his hands clinged to the neatly polished broomstick and his legs ready to perform a mighty kickoff. At least that’s what he’s thinking. “Let’s tear them into pieces!” he calls, not too loud, so that Keelan won’t hear it through the crowd’s buzz. Then he lifts off and heads for the quaffle, paying attention to Martin and Evan, not to interfere with them on their way to the red ball. As David catches it, Ashton slaps his broom and turns to chase David. Adalynn flies up in front of the hoops and watches the events on the pitch rather relaxed, until the quaffle is taken by the Ravenclaw. Now she is sweeping to and fro to be in the most appropriate position to intercept a scoring attempt.

Clavicle Gravely races up after Louis and tries to edge him away from David, and block the other boy’s approach. he pours on the speed with the Sandsweeper 25, the egyptian broom is elegant, and fast. His goggles reflect the light as he zips on up and towards David. “Where’s the bludgers?” he asks aloud as he zips on.

Tegan Madison is in the air before the sound of the whistle can die out, though she’s well used to Professor Walsh’s tendency to give the teams a small grace period before releasing the bludgers. Parting with Riley, the female beater grips her bat and suddenly looks a lot fiercer than she does, say, in class. As it is released, Tegan moves toward the bludger with a good deal of speed and with the crack of her Beater’s bat, sends it on a dead aim for the Slytherin Chasers, to break them up and away from her own team. Riley, on the other hand, moves himself toward the other, racing to get it before the Slytherin do–and he doesn’t, so now it’s a race to meat the bludger before it hits his teammates.

“Oh, we’ll see how things go, Harper,” Noémie comments to him, grinning, before she flies away quickly, only glancing over her shoulder for a moment at him, an amused expression on her face, before turning and flying downwards a bit, to better hear the action at least. After all, it would do her well to see what their mistakes are before they commence practicing for the Hufflepuff match.

Rhian says, “The Ravenclaw Chasers head down toward the Slythering Keeper, flying in formation to keep the Quaffle away from the Slytherins. The Slytherin Beaters have seem to have found the Bludgers, as they go chasing after them to send them after the Ravenclaws to try and knock them out of the air. The Ravenclaw Beaters have now moved after the Bludgers in order to intercept them from the Slytherins.”

“Don’t mind them!” shouts David out loud, hoping that his teammates would do their job and cover them from the threat of the bludgers. He is not aware, yet, of the bludger flying in his direction, and concentrates on trying to escape from the Slytherins. Ashton, in particular, is coming dangerously close behind. “Go ahead, you’re faster!” David shouts to Clavicle. If things are going the bad way –which would surely happen– David would then have an opportunity to make a forward pass to Clavicle. “Where’s Bailey?” he wonders to himself.

As Martin watches as bludger quickly approaches and swerves quickly out of the way while still keeping in hot pursued of David and the quaffle. Louis hovers nearby the Slytherin goalpost grinning like an opossum. “That we will Ribouet!” Not really much of a comeback, but in the heat of a match there is no real room for cheesy one-liners. Louis vaults down the pitch high above the game keeping his eyes peeled.

Rhian says, “Mildred passes the Quaffle to Gravely who continues forward toward Walker who seems to be getting ready to defend the Slytherin goals. The Bludgers narrow in on the Ravenclaw Chasers, which cased Mildred to pass the Quaffle before he possibly get hit. Harper takes a position up above the pitch, the usual position for a Seeker while Ribouet takes a lower position, seems the Captain wants to keep an eye on her team.”

Ashton Merck is still approaching David, not really knowing how to recover the quaffle from his opponent. “Come on, let’s get’m” he conjures his broom to race faster. A few seconds later he notices Martin on David’s other side. “Let’s go, captain!” Ashton shouts over, maybe trying to unsettle the Ravenclaw chaser a bit. Adalynn however is still prepared to engage in the events for the first time.

Of course, Bailey cannot hear what David says, and continues to fly wide, throwing his arm up in the air, and then swerving inward as they make their way closer to the Slytherin hoops. “Do something!” he calls to his teammate helpfully, before swerving out a bit more, looking from David to Clavicle, back again, and then forward at the slytherin keeper.

Rhian says, “The Ravenclaw Chasers continue to make their way to the Slytherin goals, closer to Walker who seems to be getting ready to defend her house’s goals. One of the bludgers narrow in on the Ravenclaw Chasers while the other one heads for the Slytherins in order to keep them from catching the Ravenclaws. Harper takes a position up above the pitch, the usual position for a Seeker while Ribouet takes a lower position, seems the Captain wants to keep an eye on her team.”

Clavicle Gravely suddenly bursts forward. There are advantages to being little more then skin and bones, you don’t weigh down your broom much. He zooms ahead from below and to the right of David, crossing in front of the boy so he can catch the forward pass that David hurled up. It’s just like practice, right over the shoulder. He pours on the speed as much as he can. “You go to the lower hoop. I’ll go to the middle. If I can’t make the shot, I’ll pass!”

Tegan Madison hovers for a moment, waiting to see if anyone will hit her bludger away from the Slytherin Chasers. Riley, on the other hand, swerves up on the bludger and sends it with all his considerable force flying in the other direction. True to form, it doesn’t exactly head toward, say, the Slytherin Chasers, but it might head up toward Louis. Or the bleachers. With an exclaimation, Tegan heads down toward the bludger to hit it toward Louis and not the crowd of specators. “Righ’, Markham, it really helps to take out portions of the crowd!” she calls somewhat irritably; Having had to bail out the mis-aimed ball, she’s lost track of the second bludger.

“Lower hoop!” David shouts to acknowledge the move, and the boy adjusts his heading slightly to go straight to the lower hoop, while still keeping an eye on Clavicle. A frontal pass… David would have only a split second to catch the ball, throw it, and break away, if he didn’t want to collide with the goal. But this is just like during the practices, isn’t it?

High above the game by now Louis turns as he hears the screech of the bludger coming at him full speed. Luckily for him he’s got quite a bit of breathing room. Louis does a sort of corkscrew on his broom and the bludger goes flying past him off into the air. “Yeah those bludger intensive practices really worked Sage!” Louis calls out to the youngest beater. Martin is now switching targets and flying for Clavicle at top speed coming up on him as fast he can until he is close enough to literally touch the bristles on Clavicle’s broom. Martin tries swipeing for the quaffle in an attempt to steal it away.

Ashton Merck is still following David, decreasing the distance rapidly and now flying at his very side, touching the Ravenclaw, trying to push him away from the lower hoop with a steady pressure, so that it would not look like a rough action and for the relief of Adalynn, who is getting ready, moisturing her lips nervously and with a determined look, covering the middle hoop, but always being alert to be able to change her position instantly. “Cover the lower!” she calls, adressing Ashton.

“Ah…” So that Ravenclaw beater got the bludger before her. Darting a somber look to Tegan, Tahiri pushes her broom forward in an attempt to catch the bludger before it could do any real harm. On the other side of the pitch, Sage is doing the same thing, and flies towards their chasers the fastest she can, confident that while the bludger would disperse the Ravenclaw chasers, she would only have to worry about the other one. A terrible mistake: she doesn’t notice Riley’s move immediately. Fortunately, Louis is capable enough to fend for himself. This give her the time to regain her bearings, change her direction, and go after the bludger, once again.

Clavicle Gravely makes a feint to the upper hoop from the middle, It would be a lousy shot. This is probably why he air brakes and sends a side pass to David, letting him go one into the scoring zone if he catches the pass. he hopes the sudden braking throws Martin off his tail. “Take the shot David!”

Stopping just outside the scoring zone, Bailey hovers, looking at his fellow chasers as they’re both covered by Slytherin chasers, and glances around. “Open?” he calls, waving his arms a bit and then looking down the field at the action. He does little else for the moment, save to fly around a bit, outside the scoring zone in his distance from the other chasers, though not out of scoring range, by any means.

Turning his waist slightly, David catches the Quaffle and pushes his broom forward, concentrating on the hoops. Entering in the scoring zone, he aims directly towards the lower hoop, and waits until the last moment to throw it. He hasn’t much time left, after that, to watch it fly and see if he has scored, and does a sharp turn instead to avoid any collision with the goal hoops or the goalkeeper.

Could that be, possibly, a glimmer of gold in the sky! Shocked that she’s spotted it so soon, Noémie tears her attention away from the pitch, though she does make mental notes as to what she has seen, zooming upward, moving quicker and quicker towards that little gold dot in the sky. The sun doesn’t help her vision as she works her way up into the sky, soon flying past Louis and still farther up, until from the stands, she is little more than a blue dot in the sky.

Spotting the snitch just as Noémie begins her ascension into the sky Louis is right behind her laterally inches away rising speedily into the air with the opposing seeker gritting his teeth trying with all his might to pass her. He only manages to get neck and neck as they both rocket toward the same object. Stretching one arm off of his broom Louis gets ready as they draw closer.

Clavicle Gravely air braking lead to a full stall. His broom drops, with him spiralling and flipping out of control. He turns the maneuver into a dive to regain direction, then he stops the barrel rolling, but the ground is racing up towards him. He pulls back. Heaving back on the broom to level out mere inches before the the ground makes a sudden stop to all his quidditch scoring dreams. “CRUMPLED HORN SNORCACKS!” he exclaims, but he manages not to ground plant himself. He tries to race back up towards the other hoops.

Stretching herself as well as the two of them make their speedy ascent still upward towards the small golden orb, Noémie‘s speed picks up to its top notch and she manages to speed just slightly forward, out-flying Louis by a bit and then reaching higher, her rear rising off of the broom itself. “Augh!” Noémie calls as she reaches just a bit too far over her broom and loses her balance. This, however, has not stopped her from capturing the tiny golden ball in her hand as she rights herself on her broom. A loud whoop is let out and she soon begins to zoom downard towards the pitch, her hand up in the air with the tiny ball clamped within it. It is several moments before she is close enough to be visible to those in the stands. Letting out another whoop, Noémie comes to a stop and dismounts her broom, still holding the snitch up. A second win for Ravenclaw!

As David isn’t really affected by Ashton‘s physical interference the Ravenclaw shoots at the lower hoop as he enters the zone and Ashton has to turn around hard not to break into it and cause a penalty. With a fierce expression on his face, he watches Adalynn zooming towards the quaffle. It seems senseless because the hoop is still far away and the quaffle sails through the ring as Adalynn is still approaching.

Missing the snitch only by a few inches Louis leans against his broom as it is all over looking terribly dejected. “We lost….. we lost……” Images dance in his head of the Quidditch cup going snitch wings and flying away. Louis shakes his head and descends to the ground. “Good job Noémie….. it was pretty close…”

Keelan Walsh curses under her breath, so that she can barely hear hereself, as she watches Adalynn miss the Quaffle. A whoop above her deepens the frown, and Keelan raises the whistle to her lips. “Game to Ravenclaw! 160 to 0.” That’s all she announces, spiraling down in a quick, frustrated way. As she waits for the balls to be returned (the bludgers tending to come directly), she smiles, weakly, at the players and murmurs something about a good game.

Rhian says, “What is this? Ravenclaw seems ready to score. The Chasers get in position to score, Walker moves to defend the goals and Gravely makes an attempt to score, but then stops just before entering the scoring zone, passing the Quaffle to Mildred. Foster is on Gravely’s trail and so Mildren catches it, entering the zone, he takes a shot to the lower hoop and Walker doesn’t manage to stop it. Ravenclaw scores! The score is now Ravenclaw – 10, Slytherin – 0. Of course, Gravely tried to plant himself in the ground because his broom stalled, but did just fine. Just a second, the Seekers seem to have found the Snitch! The two are neck and neck, getting closer and… it’s Ribouet that catches the Snitch. Ravenclaw wins! Final score is Ravenclaw – 160, Slytherin – 0. Now let’s get back to the castle where it’s warm.”

Clavicle Gravely manages a landing. After his powerdive, he looks a bit shaky. He’s nowwhere near as good at Airbraking as David is. He shivvers a bit. “I don’t think I will be trying THAT again without practice.” he grins a bit and waves “Good job Noémie!”

Putting her hand out to Louis, Noémie smiles widely at him. “Dashing chase,” she tells him. “It was really close. Thanks for keeping me on my toes, Louis,” the prefect tells him, her accent sliding just slightly into a french one, though her accent is usually delightfully English. “Good job, team! Practice, first thing tomorrow!” She strides over to Keelan and returns the snitch to the referee with a beaming smile, but not another word. Without another word, the captain makes her way to the Prefects bathroom to have a nice, long, relaxing bath.

“I scored?” says David, disbelief clearly displayed on his face, after his turn. He lands after the others, and runs to Clavicle with joy. “I really thought I wouldn’t be able to make it. I scored! I did score it.” he says. “Whoo! We only need to win against the Hufflepuffs, and the cup is ours!”

Tegan Madison gives a gleeful shout as David manages a score, and then actually zooms up a bit on her broom when she realizes Noémie caught the snitch. Her path to the ground is erratic, first a zoom toward Bailey and then a zoom far away, with a bit of a loop. They won again! “One more match to the win!” She’s in high enough spirits as she lands and dismounts, grinning ear to ear at the Captain. All the practice really paid off after all. Oh, she’ll be herself again later, but for now, Tegan is elated.

Clavicle Gravely grins at David and nods. “Excellent work Mildred. Good job. You have to show me how you do that brake maneuver though. I stalled it badly. Good thing she caught the snitch or I’d have been useless for the next score.” he grins a bit and looks at the stands “AUK AUK!” he grins then gives a salute to the Slytherin players.

Louis Harper shakes Noémie’s hand and tries very hard to be sporting about the loss. “You were a bit faster Ribouet.” He grins a little and comments in a sly tone. “I hope Alexandra is even faster in the next game.” What’s this? Louis seems dead set against Ravenclaw winning the Quidditch cup for some reason. “And she’s faster than me…. that’s a fact. Good luck Ribouet.” With that Louis turns strideing with his teammates back to the castle.

Frowning at the cheering going on at the Ravenclaw side, Sage shakes her head and lands, following the other members of her team. Tahiri is following closely, disappointment clearly visible on her face. “That’s too bad. Pure luck, I reckon.” says Sage, looking one last time at the Ravenclaws before walking away to the locker rooms.

Ashton Merck swoops down to the pitch in rage about the lost game, ploughing through the lawn considerably while breaking with his heel before jumping off his broom. His head glowing red and headshaking he smashes it down and kicks it away a few yards. “Good game.” he grumbles at Clavicle. Adaylnn has also landed and is walking up to her teammates, not accusing herself of a mistake.

Flying down to the ground, Bailey is oddly stolid. His face is steady as he makes his way down and then having gotten to the ground, inward to the school. No, Bailey‘s not much in a mood to celebrate at the moment. Well, mostly. A wide grin is given to Tegan, and then it is gone as soon as he realizes what he’s doing. Instead of hanging out, Bailey runs, quickly, into school. His destination is unknown to others, but for Bailey‘s part, there’s a secret nook, hidden away where he will soon be meeting someone special in that same nook.

Clavicle Gravely nods to Ashton. “Actually .. you guys looked on spectacular form.:” he nods. “I think if your broom was a touch faster, We’d not have scored at all. Your moves were superb. And your teamwork, excellent.” he admits to Ashton. “Better luck next time.”

With a loud cheer, Van flies down to the groud, beaming at all of her teammates. “Good game, everyone!” she calls to all the Slytherin, who may or may not even care that she says this. She trots off to put her broom away quickly, and then retreats into the castle, likely either looking for a certain Gryffindor seventh year, or on her way to her own commons for a party in celebration of their win.

Rhian Brecon settles into her announcing chair and does a quick test to make sure that everything is working properly and she can be heard. “Good afternoon boys and girls, Professors and staff. Today is a wonderful and beautiful day, perfect for the last Quidditch match of the 1926-27 school year. Today, we have a battle against two excellent houses, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. These two teams have managed to win both of their previous games this year and so making them tied, point for point for the Quidditch Cup, and so this match will determine which House walks away with the Quidditch Cup this year. This match is being refereed by Professor Walsh, our Herbology Professor. And now we merely wait for the two teams to take the field and to get this match underway.”

For the last week, the captain of the Hufflepuff Quidditch team has been in constant motion, bouncing from practice to practice in a blur of manic energy. Today, Eliza Marlowe is wearing the same grin that she has worn throughout the period leading up to the big game, but her eyes are serious as she looks around at her team for the last time. “Right,” she says, her strident voice as firm as ever, but with a low quiver of intensity behind it. “This is it. This is for the Cup.” Eliza looks slowly around the circle of faces. “This is what we’ve been working for this all term. We’re going to go out there and play a good game. If we win, we win cleanly. If we lose, we lose cleanly.” A different kind of quiver enters Eliza‘s voice as she mentions the possibility of losing, but she pushes ahead. “You’ve been a good team. You’ve worked hard. Now get out there and play your best.” Eliza gives her team one last crooked grin. “Good luck,” she says, and slings her broom over her shoulder to head out for the handshake that will start the match.

Alexandra Leong looks distracted as she strolls onto the pitch, broom in hand, canary yellow Quidditch robes hanging loosely, her straight black hair contained in a rough ponytail. She nods at her Captain’s little speech, making very little eye contact with her teammates. This is it, and for the Hufflepuff Seeker, the pressures are nearly overwhelming. She shifts her grip on her broom, then starts to twirl a stray strand of hair between her fingers, a nervous gesture she’s had since before her Hogwarts and Quidditch days.

Striding out to the center of the pitch, Noémie‘s face is set in a serious expression as she looks around. The stands seem to be buzzing even louder than usual on this occasion of the Quidditch Cup. The captain and seeker holds her broom down in her hand and glances around, standing off from where the Hufflepuffs are to line up before she turns to look at her teammates. “Gather ’round here,” she calls to them, clearly ready to give them a talking-to, though how harsh she will be today is a matter of some uncertainty. The cool air seems to be causing goosebumps along her arms as she waits for her team to join her.

Contrary to Noémie’s stony expression, Tegan stomps onto the pitch, looking almost angry as she settles herself near to Noémie. Riley follows just behind her, not looking quite as angry, and Tegan almost yanks him to stand next to her. “Don’t screw up today,” she hisses at the younger student, her eyes staring into his face as she says this, until he nods affirmative. The girl stands next to Noémie and crosses her arms over one another with her broom in hand and waits to see what the captain will have to say.

Rooted to the place she’s standing while listening to Eliza’s speech, Carrie stares straight at her captain with something of a determined expression having descended upon her face after Eliza finishes up. Nodding definitively as the captain goes to shake hands, Carrie, somewhat nervously, switches her broom from her right hand to her left as she takes a few tense steps ahead. She makes a point of not looking at Marybeth, but glances down to Alexandra shortly before looking to Eldric, nodding once more.

Leaning in close with the rest of her team Marybeth has her broom clutched tightly in one hand listening intently to Eliza’s pep-talk. When the captain finishes Marybeth grins and adds. “This is for all the marbles! …. No really I’ve got a big bag of marbles I’ll split them up if we win.” Yes it was a lame stab at humor but it was lighthearted and isn’t that just the Hufflepuff way? The chaser grins a final time with a small laugh bolstering her courage before she begins doing her stretches. You always want to be nice and limber for when you are playing the most exciting game ever!

Standing a little apart from his fellow Chasers, Albert Bryce listens to the captain’s speech with rapt attention…or, perhaps, nervously glazed eyes…or, perhaps, an extremely determined effort not to look at Eldric. At any rate, he’s staring straight at Eliza through the whole thing, nodding every so often, his hand wrapped so tightly around his broom that his knuckles show white.

Charlie Linwood stands, in freshly laundered robes, with a freshly polished broom, in front of Eliza, listening seriously to her speech. This is it. “For the Cup.” he croaks back, voice belying the nerves that have settled in at the last moment. It is, after all, true. If they win this the Quidditch Cup belongs to Hufflepuff… for the first time in how long? Charlie stands unnaturally firm, though he seems to force his face into a sick grin. Today of all days it is important he not accidentally hit his team instead of the other.

Bailey Williams walks out to the pitch, broom in hand, smiling and ready to retrieve the best performance of the year from himself. Stopping at the group of teammates, he addresses Tegan with a short grin and leans on his broom, waiting for his captain’s speech.

Clavicle Gravely trots out. Sort of the clown of the team, he stops in front of the Ravenclaw stands and flaps his arms, “GO RAVENCLAW!” he slings the broom, the sandsweeper 25 over his shoulder and trots over to Noémie. His robes ripple around him in the wind as he looks to the captain.

A feeling of nostalgia sweeps over Van as she makes her way out to the pitch, standing in group with her team and glancing only momentarily at the Hufflepuff team making their shouts before turning her attention forward again. It is her last match at Hogwarts, and Van seems to have to wipe a tear away as she thinks of this, taking a deep breath of the cool air and looking up into the sky. A nice clear day, perfect weather for the determinative match for the Quidditch Cup.

Eldric Carver still has a bandaged up neck, and as possibly the largest member of the team and thus the biggest target, also sports two furry purple horns like a goat’s and, barely visible under his robes, an abundance of bright pink arm hair. “I’ll get it fixed after, doesn’t change how I play!” was his reponse when he turned up to the changing rooms with these anamolies, and now he stands trying to look serious while marked by some clever but, fortunately for the casters, anonymous hexes. For a moment, he glowers over at the blue-clad players, but then nods (and grunts a bit) to his Captain’s speech and tightens his grip on both his broom and bat without a word.

“I’ve been nice this season before matches. I’ve not demanded that we win, and yet we managed to pull out wins against Gryffindor and Slytherin. Let’s keep this up and manage a win today. Let’s get that cup, because we deserve it.” Noémie‘s face is focussed and set, and her expression as she glances to Hufflepuff is almost annoyed. “We’re not going to do any stupid chanting or pep talks, because I think we have the technical skill to manage this. So, let’s pull it off. I know we can do it.” With a nod, she offers a rather strained smile to her team and turns to face the Hufflepuff team, walking forward to prepare for the handshake. Her face is stony and set as she does this, as if showing emotion to the Hufflepuff captain during the handshake will put her at a disadvantage.

Clavicle Gravely looks over to David, as David comes out as well. Today David is in serious mode. His broom is clipped and polished and he comes up to Noémie as well.

Keelan Walsh looks absolutlely disgusting in yellow, so her robes are black instead. It could almost be called unbiased, except for the yellow ribbon she’s laced around the end of her broom (Which lies next to the box of Quidditch balls). A closed expression surfaces as she watches, in a strange, detatched way, the teams chat a bit. She straightens her shoulders when it seems they’ve had enough time, clears her throat and says, “Captains? Shake hands, everyone else? You might want to get in place to start if you’re not.” Her voices rises, though still likely inaudible to the watchers. “While this game may determine which team has the glory of the Quidditch Cup,” a smirk, soft, “I want it clean. If I have to call any fouls for roughness or underhanded tactics,” she seems to look at the Ravenclaws more, though they haven’t any more record of the behavior than the Hufflepuffs, “I will not hesistate to award as many penalty shots as possible or to ground the off ending players.” Serious as stone, now, she turns to gather up the Quaffle, but doesn’t throw it yet.

At the center of the pitch, Eliza reaches a steady hand out to Noémie, and gives her Ravenclaw counterpart a firm nod. “Good luck,” she says, with complete sincerity, and even a fainter version of the crooked smile that she gave to her own team.

Noémie‘s face barely breaks its expression as Keelan makes these comments, seemingly entirely in the direction of her own team, and then nods at Eliza, giving her a stiff handshake and withdrawing her hand as quickly as she has offered it for the traditional handshake. Noémie does not say anything in response, merely nodding again and making her way back to the line of her team to make way for the chasers to vie for the Quaffle.

Readying herself to take off into the air, Carrie takes a few cleansing breaths as she looks to her feet and prepares to play a hard game. She is only vaguely aware, somehow, when she looks up to see the two captains shaking hands. Looking avidly to Keelan and the Quaffle, Carrie takes a firm grasp on her broom and waits.

Nodding firmly after the speech, Bailey looks and walks over to Clavicle and David. Clapping into his hands he urges them on. “Let’s go guys, I want to drink a good amount of butterbeer out of that cup, when this is finished.” Then he steps into position and readies himself to shoot up for the quaffle.

Making her way to get into position as the captains shake hands Marybeth is primed and ready…. if not completely nervous. She flashes a friendly smile Eldric’s way despite his shocking appearance while Professor Walsh makes her statement. She takes a deep breath and readies herself mounting her broom waiting for word to start.

Charlie Linwood moves rather mechanically to his proper spot, bringing down his broom and lifting one leg over it to stand like a muggle child with a broom for a pony, feet still on the ground. Holding his broom one-handed as he has learned to, he holds his bat-hand in the air at what could be a menancing angle if only he didn’t look so ridiculous standing and waiting. Perhaps if he didn’t look as though he might be sick it would help as well.

Tegan uncrosses her arms and crosses them again, doing this over and over until Riley finally reaches over and snatches at her arms, forcing them to hang at her sides for the time being. Tegan glares in his direction as she stands this way, and stands on her tiptoes to see what Bailey is doing, and whether he even notices her. No, Tegan! Now is not the time to get distracted. The girl manages to shake the thought out of her head and she watches for the whistle, putting her broom in a position to be able to take off for the bludgers as soon as she can.

Alexandra Leong hops onto her broom and stands ready to take off. Her gloved hands fiddle nervously with the polished handle of her broom, rubbing at none existent smudges and scratches. “We have to win we have to win we have to win…” she mutters to herself, her face scrunched with with anxiety.

Van seems to still be trying to stifle the tears that want to fall from her eyes, and she waves rather discreetly towards the Gryffindor bleachers, a smile spreading over her face. Then she seems to realize the gravity of the situation, and she rolls her shoulders a bit, rotating her arms as if to limber herself up for the shots that might come her way over the course of what promises to be a very exciting match.

Clavicle Gravely straddles the Sandsweeper and gets ready to take flight. The Egyptian broom is ready, polished and trimmed. He looks determinedly to Bailey. “Lets hope the pratices paid off then. ” he grins, having spent quite a few days in practices with Bailey getting passes down and all. David is ready as well. He looks to Noémie and Tegan and gives a thumbs up, then turns to watch the release of the quaffle.

Eldric Carver tries a smile at Marybeth, but it seems the final Quidditch match of the season, one which is so important, has drained most of his flirtatious spirit. Moving into position, his eyes fix on Professor Walsh expectantly, legs already pushing down a bit in anticipation of take-off. Unlike Charlie, he manages to look somewhat imposing with his bat lofted, as long as nobody notices, in the slip of his robes, the arm hair, or that his horns have a bit of sparkle to them. Really.

Keelan Walsh pauses, still holding the Quaffle, to release the latch that holds the Snitch in it’s own compartment. The golden ball flies out, hovers for a second, and then soars upward erratically, as if unsure how it will fly today. Turning, now, the Herbology professor straightens. With one last look at the teams (is that the tinyest of smiles toward both?), she brings the whistle to her lips, lofts the Quaffle skyward with a strange amount of force, considering it’s one handed, and blows. With one shrill note, the Cup game has begun.

As the whistle blows, Noémie pushes off the ground and flies high up into the air as fast as she can manage. If she is high up where she can see the action, she figures she will be better suited towards catching the snitch quickly. At this point, the little gold ball is out of sight, unable to be seen from where she is high above the pitch. However, as the match has just begun, Noémie does not appear nervous at this.

Glancing momentarily at Riley, Tegan kicks off the ground and flies up, brandishing her bat in her right hand. Her arm is reared back, as if there is a bludger to be hit already, despite that the bludgers have not yet been released. “Remember, Riley! AIM!” She calls to her very sullen-looking teammate as she flies to the other side of the pitch as he is at. Riley, for his own part, makes his way towards the center, watching Keelan carefully for the release of the bludgers.

With all her speed Marybeth is up in the air gunning toward the quaffle, her expression determined losing it’s usual carefree expression. With an outstretched hand she hopes to grab it before any of the Ravenclaw chasers do. As she draws closer Marybeth pushes herself to go faster and faster until she is close enough to try and make a grab for the quaffle plucking it out of the air like so much ripe melon! The girl begins flying with all her speed down pitch ready to play he heart out in this one.

In a flash, Eliza is in the air and soaring swiftly towards the goalposts, taking up her position as Keeper. Her eyes narrow, keeping close watch on the Quaffle as she edges from side to side, covering as much space as she can. “Good luck!” Eliza shouts. “Go for it, Campbell! You’ve got it!”

Rhian says, “The two teams have come out of their respective lockers, words are exchanged among them, obviously encouraging words from the Captains to their own teams. The two Captains, Seeker Noémie Ribouet for Ravenclaw and Keeper Eliza Marlowe for Hufflepuff, come to the center were Professor Walsh waits for them, which they give their starting handshakes before the two teams take their starting positions. Professor Walsh releases the Snitch before it goes zooming off, then one last look at the teams, she blows the whistle and tosses the Quaffle into the air. The game has started. Cambell manages to get a hold of the Quaffle off the toss-up for Hufflepuff as the bludgers are also released. The Hufflepuff Chasers take the Quaffle and head down to the Ravenclaw goals, the Ravenclaws working on keeping up with them.”

Van is already up in the air when the quaffle is caught by a Hufflepuff chaser, and this causes the Keeper to fly even quicker towards the hoops, readying herself quickly. Perhaps she ought to have spent less time in practice goofing off. The seventh year is stationed in front of the hoops, however, and she holds her arms up, balancing carefully on the broom as she looks out at the clump in the middle of the field, keeping her eye mostly on the chaser with the quaffle.

Bolting into the air as the professor tosses the quaffle up and blows the whistle, Carrie is off with quick reflexes. The girl notes Marybeth’s better positioning to snatch the thing and veers left, out of her way. Seeing her catch out of the corner of her eye, Carrie flits towards the Ravenclaw goalposts, turning around after having gotten a bit closer to them, her arms outstretched. “Marybeth!”

Alexandra Leong kicks off hard and scrambles towards the snitch, but it vanishes within seconds. Grumbling, the small Hufflepuff climbs rapidly, stopping a dozen feet above the rest of the players, scanning the entire pitch for signs of the erratic little golden ball that is her query. “Come to Hufflepuff…” she says in a small voice… “I’m wearing yellow, see? We could be friends, little snitch…” This recent bout of talking to objects (inanimate or otherwise) appeared last week, after speaking with a teacup resulted in a successful transfiguration of said teacup into a skittering spider-like creature. She pays almost no attention to Noémie, at least for the moment.

Clavicle Gravely shoots for the sky in the swarm of chasers shooting up after the Quaffle. His robes wip around him and he looks determined, but he is not in the lead today, as he had a bad shove off at the get go. He sees Marybeth get the quaffle to begin with and instead tries to get into a better position to harry the Hufflepuff on the way to the rings. David shoots up as well to prepare to try to steal the Quaffle as well. The two split to try to come at the Hufflepuff girl from both sides to force her away from the rings if successful.

Keelan Walsh watches for a minute and then, quickly, frees the bludgers, ducking under them as they move at first of their own speed, with the seeming joy these inanimate objects always seem able to express at freedom. One bludger heads up at almost a straight line, detouring at last toward Bailey, though the course is random. Of course, a bludger doesn’t focus on one person. The other bludger moves skyward toward Alexandra, as if aware(though of course it is not) that the other went for a Ravenclaw. For her part, Keelan mounts her broom and begins the slow, careful circling of the pitch, eyes darting here and there with a strange intensity, alert for fouls.

Seeing Marybeth moving forward to catch the Quaffle, Albert moves to take up a supporting position. One hand out to catch the ball if Marybeth decides to pass, Albert starts to maneuver himself carefully between David and Marybeth, trying to prevent the opposing Chaser from intercepting any passes. Albert aims a quick, wary glance over his shoulder at David, keeping a careful eye on his Ravenclaw counterpart.

With the sound of the whistle Bailey kicks off and rushes towards the quaffle. Seeing that Marybeth has an advantage, he accelarates even harder, trying to tip it out of her hand. But as the Hufflepuff grabs the ball, Bailey zooms up, performing a hard turn to chase the carrier. He notices his fellow chasers approaching her from both sides and keeps follow her closely.

Spying that one bludger is headed toward one of her own chasers, Tegan begins to fly toward it quickly, her bat brandished. “Heads up, Bailey!” she calls to him, to warn him of the danger he’s in in case she should be too slow to get to it. Thankfully, Tegan catches up to the bludger fast enough to be able to give it a whack, sending it directly toward Marybeth in hopes of dislodging the Quaffle from Hufflepuff posession. Riley watches for the moment, as he is not entirely motivated to go save the other team’s seeker from being hit by a quaffle.

Charlie Linwood is in the sky as soon as the whistle blows, though he sort of hovers below the rest of the teams, waiting for the release of the bludgers. As they are, he notes the one that hurtles toward Alexandra, and makes pace to stop it, bat brandished two-handed like the club it is. Coming level, he looks, briefly, for a flash of blue, and smacks the ball away from his team and toward–it looks like Tegan. Oops. Never hit a bludger at the opposite beater, Charlie.

Flying as fast as her broom will take her Marybeth is well aware of the three Ravenclaws on either side of her and looks hastily down the pitch while maneuvering a bit snakily to avoid them. A great smile comes to her face as her savior Carrie is spotted and with a great heave Marybeth sends the quaffle hurtling toward her fellow chaser down the pitch with a yell of excitement “Carrie!” It is unfortunate however that the moment the quaffle left her hand Marybeth was struck in the side by bludger hit by Tegan and nearly slips off of her broom before catching herself. Well she seems alright for now.

Eldric Carver is off toward the bludger Charlie hits before he spots Charlie doing so as well and makes a wide, banking turn to avoid redundancy. The redirected bludger is spotted, but of course he’s farther from it than he should be and doesn’t make it in time to save Marybeth. “Sorry!” escapes as he zips past to redirect it from his own Chasers–toward Clavicle goes the bludger, at the sound of Eldric‘s bat. The horns seem to quiver, but of course they can’t be. Too small.

Wincing as Marybeth takes a rather nasty-looking blow from a bludger, Carrie has only a split second in which to compose herself. Doing so, the girl lunges down to receive Marybeth’s pass, managing to catch it using two hands. “Okay!” she exclaims, turning and bolting off in the direction of the Ravenclaw hoops, hoping to make it there before the Ravenclaw chasers can catch her.

Rhian says, “With the bludgers released, a new danger is in the game. One of the bludgers goes after Williams, though Madison manages it to deflect it before it got too close to the Ravenclaw Chaser, hitting it towards Campbell in hoping to get Ravenclaw the Quaffle. The second Bludger has gone after Leong, the Hufflepuff Seeker. Linwood manages to get that Bludger away from Leong, though now it heads toward Madison, possibly a bad move. Campbell notices she’s surrounded by blue and passes the Quaffle to Whittier, just before she gets hit by the Bludger sent by Madison. Carver gets the last of that Bludger and sends it off toward Gravely.”

Wincing at the impact of the Bludger with his teammate’s side, Albert still keeps his focus, and moves ahead to position himself for a pass forward from Carrie. They’ve practiced this dozens of times – Albert keeps his eyes on Carrie, ready for one of her fancy flying tricks. And he keeps on the Quaffle, ready for another pass so that he can bring the ball one step closer to the goal.

Startled that for once a bludger is headed directly towards her, Tegan‘s head seems to quirk a bit, but not for long as she sends the bludger flying to the group of chasers, hoping to hit Carrie this time, as she has already managed to shake up the quaffle’s posession from Hufflepuff a little bit. Riley spots the other bludger flying towards one of the Ravenclaw chasers, and starts flying speedily down toward the group of chasers in hopes of intercepting it before it hits someone. “Look out!” he calls and brandishes his bat out as far as he can manage to try to keep the bludger from hitting. He only barely manages to whack it back in the other direction, at nobody in particular before he has to pull out of the way rather than run into his own teammate.

Clavicle Gravely turns and sees the pass and whips the sandsweeper 25 around. He pours on the speed. The Egyptian broom is built for speed and soon he’s catching up to the hufflepuff, The broom catches up to the other and Clavicle sees David’s broom didn’t quite have the speed to be close enough, so he tries for a steal, He shoves at the Quaffle, and sends it off towards Bailey instead!

Charlie Linwood seems to have taken up protecting Alex, somewhat out of his head at the fact that this leaves Eldric to deal with both bludgers most of the time. He doesn’t get too close to her, but neither does he swoop in to join the main fray. Charlie‘s face has gone about as pale as it is able, though he swings his bat around in a somewhat lunatic way.

Rubbing her side furiously and just hovering in place for a moment Marybeth shakes her head to get over the pain of the blow and get her head back in the game. Again she quickly begins to fly down the pitch this time trailing a bit behind Carrie as a bit of a safety net incase the quaffle needs to be passed backward. This time Marybeth is quite careful to be on the look out for bludgers as well as Ravenclaws…. those things really do hurt. Letting out a cry of frustration as Ravenclaw steals the quaffle, she moves into position flying toward Bailey with aggressive speed.

Eldric Carver does notice Charlie’s abscense as he flies to meet the bludger with his bat. Carrie of all people on the team is under his particular protection (plus he was already right there), and so off the ball goes, this time toward Bailey, given that the Ravenclaw Chaser seems to be in line to take the stolen Quaffle. “Go!” he calls to the Hufflepuff Chasers, not waiting for the ball to get closer.

“Aughhh!” the girl shrieks in aggravation, in echo to Marybeth, as Carrie loses possession of the quaffle. Attempting to trail Marybeth without competing with her, Carrie flies a fair distance behind her. Spotting Albert, Carrie moves to compensate, trying to maximize Hufflepuff’s position for opportunities on the pitch.

Either Alexandra is exceptionally brave, or she just didn’t see the fact that she was quite close to getting creamed by a bludger. Either way, she carries on zooming about the pitch, looking for any sign of the snitch, while starting to keep an eye on Noémie. Her flying is quite solid, although her turns are wide and occasionally wobbly.

Stolen! “Blast!” Albert exclaims. He leans down over the handle of his broom, pushing himself faster to chase after the stolen Quaffle that is now heading towards his own goal. Faster – faster – he zips ahead of first Carrie and then Marybeth. Albert‘s eyes are fixed firmly on the Quaffle in Clavicle’s hand as he speeds forward, his breath quickening as he spurs his broom ever faster.

Hearing Noémie’s call, Bailey ducks on instinct as the bludger passes him and knocks Marybeth in the side. He races towards Carrie now, catching up to her and letting himself drop a bit beneath her, using her as a protection from the approaching bludger. “Watch out, Clavicle.” Bailey calls. But too late, Clavicle has been fast enough to hustle the quaffle out of Carrie’s possession. Swooping down to finally catch it, then forming up with Clavicle and David to initiate the offence, Bailey calls “David! Left!” and dashes the quaffle over his shoulder towards David at a good speed and just manages to avoid the bludger in time, hoping that he’ll get knocked away soon.

Riley has stayed near his teammates and is ready to meet the bludger, rearing his bat back and giving it a hard whack up towards Alexandra, despite the fact that Charlie appears to be guarding her closely. The bludger flies off and gratefully Riley turns his attention back to his chasers. The other bludger seems to have veered off its course that Tegan sent it off on, and the girl flies towards it to try and prevent it from hitting her own seeker, catching up to it quickly. Soon, Tegan has whacked the bludger back towards the group of chasers, aimed right towards Albert.

Clavicle Gravely races to the side and calls out “YES!” He grins then blanches as a bludger races at him “NO!” He dives trying to get away from the thing but banks…trying to lead it over to the ravenclaw beaters “Assistance!” David hears the call and takes the Quaffle, He chuckles a bit. “That boy is cursed by bludgers. ” he races back towards his scoring hoop!

Faster, faster – Albert flies in a perfect, smooth arc, his hand out to intercept the Quaffle at the peak of its flight – and then with a cry of alarm, he abruptly jerks out of the way as a bludger comes hurtling directly at him. “Aaaaahhh!” Albert manages to escape the bludger, but he is too far away from the Quaffle to even make another try for it. “Blast!” he mutters again, and speeds forward again in a desperate attempt to protect his own goal.

Charlie Linwood snorts. “Hah!” he calls. “That’s not ruddy well going to work!” Really, he’s much too close to Alex (without, you know, being so close as to crowd her) for a bludger to get through. Even in his somewhat panicked state (with a distinct sort of green tinge about the edges), he can at least smack the bludger back toward the Ravenclaws–this time, actually, toward their own Seeker and Captain.

Rhian says, “The Bludgers are getting a beating as Madison now hits one of the Bludgers to the Hufflepuff Chasers in general, while Markham manages to protect his own Chasers and sends that Bludger off to nowhere it seems. Gravely attempts to interfere with the pass to Whittier and knocks the Quaffle off toward Williams in Ravenclaw’s attempts to steal the Quaffle from Hufflepuff. With the Ravenclaw steal, the players move back the other way, though Williams now has a Bludger after him thanks to Carver. Williams tosses the Quaffle back over his shoulder to Mildred as Bryce attempted and failed to steal the Quaffle from the Ravenclaws due to one of the Bludgers getting in the way thanks to Madison. The other Bludger is sent off to Leong by a hit from Markham. Ravenclaw still has the Quaffle and getting awefully close to Marlowe and the goalposts she’s guarding. Linwood manages to intercept the Bludger heading towards Leong and sends it after Ribouet who is seeking the Snitch as well.”

Watching as Albert tries to take the quaffle and fails Marybeth hurries to try and make up for it racing at top speed around Albert and his bludger to make her way behind David. She is a bit behind though and catching up is going to take some doing but that’s what Hufflepuff is good for, trying hard. Marybeth bites down on her lip and really lays into her broom.

Eldric Carver again fails to keep the bludger from one of his Chasers, though mostly because there is only so much flying space, and over half of both teams appear to be attempting to use the same amount. Still, once Albert misses the bludger(or rather, it misses him), it’s an easy enough hit back toward David, nostrils dialated in annoyance. Well, at least continually deflecting the same bludger from and to the same people is something to do. And he does enjoy hitting them. The bludgers, not the people.

Clavicle Gravely recovers and races towards the goal. David is doing well as well, and coming in to the edge of the scoring zone. he suddenly banks right at the scoring zone edge and makes a hand off to Clavicle as the boy races by, Clavicle uses the move he and Bailey practiced a lot. suddenly braking fast and hard, he feints high and shoots at the lower hoop, It’s his first in game scoring attempt.

As David catches safely, Bailey swerves to the left hoop and waves to him, signalling that he’s unguarded. Hovering inches before the zone, he is ready to shoot into it and attempt a score. One fine pass and Ravenclaw would lead in that deciding game. But then the quaffle is tossed to Clavicle, who performed the known manouver. “Come on, Clav…” Bailey mutters and zooms lower to be set up to catch a dropped quaffle or so, watching his teammate attempting the score at the right hoop.

Tegan is ready to leave her seeker to the job she has before her, and then seeing that the bludger has been whacked in her direction, Tegan backtracks a bit, quickly hitting the bludger in the direction of the hoops, hoping that she’ll maybe get it to the Keeper, now that the quaffle is in scoring range so that her team has a chance at scoring. Riley, for his own part, makes his way towards the bludger which is headed toward David, and tries to get a hold on it. Within seconds, he has managed to catch up to it, and whacks it in a direction that he thinks will make it head toward Marybeth, but which instead seems to head down the other direction on the pitch, headed directly toward his own keeper. In a resigned fashion, he begins to fly down to retrieve it an hopefully manage to hit it actually toward a Hufflepuff.

Eldric Carver has banked back somewhat to escape the crowding of Chasers and to keep from entering the scoring zone, a glance sent toward Keelan, but now sees the bludger on it’s way to help and quickly darts into line. There is a massive CRACK as the pink-arm-haired, purple-horn bearing Beater swings back and then forward, this bludger sent chasing after Riley as well. After all, if Riley gets taken out and doesn’t save Van from his own bludger, well, that might be a penalty shot, right?

Throughout the match, Eliza has been hovering a few yards in front of the goalposts, watching the interchange of Quaffle and bludgers, shouting encouragement to her team. “Good! Right, keep it up! Good save, Bryce!” And then, suddenly, the Quaffle is heading towards Eliza, and she is speaking to herself. “Right! Here it comes!” With a little upwards skip, she takes off towards the right-hand goalpost, keeping her eye fixed on the ball. Aiming…aiming…and then WHACK! she spins swiftly to block, hitting the Quaffle away from the goal with a firm smack of the bristles of her broom.

Clavicle Gravely flies stright through the zone and out of the other side. He begins circling back, unlike what some may think, he is not dissapointed he was blocked. Quite the contrary, he looks exstatic he got to try. “I’ll get it next time!” he calls out to Eliza as he circles around laughing, he looks to see where the quaffle is. David never entered the zone, he’s all business, and zips down to assist Bailey to attempt to get the Quaffle.

“Where are you, little snitch?” Alexandra continues to mutter to herself. “Don’t you like me anymore? Come on little snitch… I’ll be gentle…” She’s flying in faster and faster circles now, a sense of desperation and panic raising in her chest. “Snitch snitch snitch… snitch… SNITCH!” A glitter of gold catches the small girl’s eye, and immediate she starts to zoom towards the stands.

Sighing a breath of relief when the Quaffle is deflect Marybeth hurries a bit faster trying desperately to catch up and catch it. She is nearly next to Clavicle and begins racing with him giving him a bit of a glare…. well as much of a glare as a Hufflepuff will muster that is. Her eyes quickly dart forward though onto Bailey.

Tegan flies quickly down the pitch toward the bludger, as she certainly doesn’t want to give Hufflepuff free penalty shots, especially if Van is taken out by it. She manages to get to the bludger in enough time to block it from Riley, and she sends it flying toward Marybeth this time, rather than back toward the keeper. The crowd around the goals causes Tegan to fly back toward it quickly so as to save her own teammates from the bludger if necessary.

“Argh.” Bailey hits his broom and dives for the bounced off quaffle, which just passed him by a few yards. He picks it up, hoping that David and Clavicle got out of the zone quickly enough and rushes towards the left hoop, trying to catch Eliza off guard. “Hewk!” Bailey strikes out and fires the quaffle at the hoop, leaning hard into the shot to give it an enourmous boost. Then he performs a curve and watches the ball rushing for ten points.

Rhian says, “Carver manages to protect his Chasers by sending the Bludger off toward Mildred is passing the Quaffle off toward Gravely to make a scoring attempt. Madison sends one of the Bludgers off to Marlowe, who is intercepted by Carver, which is now going after Marcham, who in turn just sent a Bludger down at his own Keeper, Douglass and is now attempting to intercept it once more. Marlowe protects the goal by knocking the Quaffle away with her broom and while Gravely and Mildred get out of the way, Williams manages to recover the Quaffle to try and score again.”

Riley Markham curses, quiet loudly, as he darts across the pitch after the bludger he sent sailing toward Van. He wasn’t having a terribly good game so far, he thought. Trailing through the sky as fast or faster than the safety regulations for a Windwalker would suggest, he demonstrates a hint of his only real talent, it would seem, on the quidditch pitch — trick flying. Out-running the by fractions, he does his best to position himself between it and the keeper.. only to find Tegan having taken it out from under him. He can’t help but shoot the girl a somewhat angered, narrowed expression. Floating there for a moment with no real purpose, he watches the cluster of people at the other end of the pitch for a long moment before drifting that direction, until he’s lingering around mid-pitch.

Eliza‘s relief at protecting her goal lasts for barely a second before the Quaffle is back in action again. Speeding across the length of the goalposts, Eliza leans down, kicking her heels back as if by doing so, she could make her broom go faster. Closer, closer – Eliza turns outwards, trying to intercept the ball before it can reach the goal It’s to no avail, though – the Quaffle gets to the goalpost a fraction of a second before Eliza does, and it goes through. “Blast it!” she cries, her face crumpling with frustration as the opposing team scores.

Clavicle Gravely does something very odd to Marybeth. he waggles his eyebrows and winks. Clavicle is having the time of his life. He comes up neck and neck with the Hufflepuff girl and pours on the speed, trying to outclass her broom with the egyptian sport model he’s using. He’s racing her. What a cheeky bugger. “Nice hair.” he comments as he pulls ahead a bit. David is racing around back as well. Heading towards the : Quaffle, waiting for it to hit play again!

Spotting that Alexandra has started flying quickly toward something that she herself can’t see, Noémie turns quickly and starts on Alexandra’s path, trying to catch up to the other seeker to hopefully overtake her and snatch the snitch out of the air before her. After several moments, Noémie manages to come up to full speed and comes neck-and-neck with Alexandra, flying perilously close to the girl on her left, trying to keep up as well with the tiny gold ball.

“Aww nuts!” Cries out Marybeth as the Quaffle is scored and Ravenclaw gets in the lead. Worse still that little ravenclaw twig is _hitting_ on her distracting her badly and eliciting another glare. As she turns Marybeth is indeed so distracted that she has no idea that there is a bludger coming right at her until it is far too late. Again poor Marybeth is pummeled this time right in her stomach taking the wind right out of her and probably her lunch too, though wether from the bludger or from the younger boy’s advances is anyone’s guess.

Bailey raises a fist into the air as the quaffle sails through the hoop with a loud “CLONK!” Not saying anything, as the game isn’t decided at all yet, Bailey nods over to his fellow chasers and gets back into formation, peering for a cheer or any other reaction from Tegan, until the game is continued.

Eldric Carver throws Eliza a look, whether sympathetic or annoyed, it’s hard to tell, but either way, he’s distracted from his duties–and then there’s bits of lunch in the air and Eldric swerves hard to the right to avoid being splattered, and misses. Now he’s got purple-and-sandwich colored horns, and bits of partially digested something in his hair. Behold the Hufflepuff’s elder beater’s panic. “Disgusting! Campbell!” Far be it for him to feel sympathy or responsbility, he’s got bits of regurgitated food in his hair. Apparently, far be it for him to remember the closeness of the bludger until it’s almost too late again. Flying erratically, he hits it away-up, really, just far, and continues doing weird circles to get the vomit off without, you know, touching it.

Clavicle Gravely nods to Marybeth. “I had the pea’s for lunch too. by the by…there’s a bludger coming.” he zips off having a laugh. He gives a hands up victory fist to Bailey. “Good show!” He sighs, maybe he can score next time. “I’d stay away from the ham before a game next time though.” David can’t help but go, “Ewh, Gravely…that’s just…gross!”

Gulping back her frustration and anger, Eliza zips behind the goalposts, dipping down to retrieve the fallen Quaffle before it can descend any further. “Blast, blast, _blast_!” she mutters, her expressive face still crinkled in a frown of discontent as she soars back up to the level of the other players, the Quaffle held securely in one hand. Up goes Eliza‘s arm, drawing back to wind up, and then she sends the Quaffle flying in a high, graceful arc over the cluster of people crowded around the Hufflepuff goal with a forceful overhand throw. “Campbell, are you all right?” she calls, a different sort of frown coming to her face as she watches her Chaser’s plight. “Carver! Focus!”

Riley Markham curses, quiet loudly, as he darts across the pitch after the bludger he sent sailing toward Van. He wasn’t having a terribly good game so far, he thought. Trailing through the sky as fast or faster than the safety regulations for a Windwalker would suggest, he demonstrates a hint of his only real talent, it would seem, on the quidditch pitch — trick flying. Out-running the by fractions, he does his best to position himself between it and the keeper. Ultimately, it’s a narrow victory on Riley‘s part. Inching out ahead of his clobbered bludger, he has very little bat-room to swing and his deflection away from Van sents it up high and above the grouped crowd on the end of the pitch, angling up toward the sky. Still, the power he puts behind the hit rather substantial. The sound of the bat cracking against the leather cannonball is echoing. “At least I can do something right!”

Charlie Linwood is startled when Alex begins moving in earnest toward the stands, and looks wildly about himself for signs of the bludgers. Down, he goes, as the bludgers soar upward–”Hey, Carver, what are you playing at?” Charlie missed any Quaffle and/or Gravely induced vomiting, and instead hits the first bludger back down at the group of Ravenclaw Chasers, and turns tail to get to the bludger and aim it again at Noémie. Just a little bit further–CRACK! Well, hopefully it won’t get too near Alex, who he watches with no small amount of trepidition.

Pulling hastily away from the distressed Marybeth – and giving Eldric’s filth-covered form a look that is decidedly less romantic and admiring than any she has given him before – Carrie keeps her focus on the game and races up towards the Quaffle. Looping neatly around Clavicle’s back, Carrie reaches out to snatch up the Quaffle in one hand, holding on to her broom with the other as she speeds towards the Ravenclaw goal. Albert circles around the other way, giving his other teammates a wide berth, and starts flying ahead of Carrie, positioning himself for a forward pass.

Rhian says, “Williams gets back into position and Ravenclaw scores! Ravenclaw has made the first score of the game as it is now Ravenclaw-10, Huffelpuff-0. Marlowe takes the Quaffle and tosses it to one of her own Chasers, Whittier , who with the others heads down the other side of the pitch to try and answer the Ravenclaw swore. The Bludgers come flying back around, one heading towards Campbell which her, once more. See’s she’s having some bad luck today with those Bludgers. The other one Markham manages to deflect from Douglass, sending it off into the sky with quite an amount of force. Linwood manages to get one of the Bludgers, sending it after the Ravenclaw Chasers. What is this? It seems the Seekers have found the Snitch. First it was Leong and Ribouet is after it as well. They are neck and neck as they chase after the Snitch. The match and the cup rely solely on these two ladies as they go after it. Linwood has now sent the second Bludger after Ribouet to try and get her off the chase of the Snitch.”

Both bludgers go flying at once, and Tegan is alarmed to see her seeker targeted once again. She flies quickly toward the bludger in hopes of catching up to it. The seekers are moving very quickly and the girl is having a tough time catching up to the bludger, but she does finally manage to do so, hitting it toward another Hufflepuff chaser with an echoing crack.

Wobbling badly on her broom as the bludger is smacked away by Charlie Marybeth can’t seem to get her broom to go forward even though she is leaning hunched over cursing the sarcastic ravenclaw’s name (which she wished she knew… so she could actually curse at it you know.) she begins sinking toward the ground slowly until she is safely on the grass before collapsing on her side.

Alexandra Leong clenches her teeth as she zooms straight for the stands. Noémie’s presence is not lost on Alexandra. She urges her broom on, gaining a bit of speed, but the quickly upcoming stands forces her to abandon speed for manuverability. The snitch is quite clearly in front of her, a fluttering golden ball, extremely speedy, and extremely erratic. The Hufflepuff Seeker almost slams into a supporting beam holding up the stands as she follows the snitch. Weaving between the various beams, supports, and struts, she tries to keep up, and almost succeeds… until she grazes a beam with her left arm, causing her robes to rip, revealing a deep, argry looking scratch.

Clavicle Gravely was going for the Quaffle as well but Linwood’s well aimed blow sends a bludger at him, His face blanches and he dodges to the side as the cannonball like bludger slams right by him, “Great bones… that thing gave me a shave as it went by… and I don’t have whiskers yet! Markham! A hand!” he zips around to head towards a beater to get the bludger off of him. David banks swiftly and takes off after Carrie to try to Harry her Scary scoring attempt!

Noémie manages to avoid the beam, but is forced to dive a bit and pull back up as she tries to avoid getting hit, pulling forward ever so slightly from Alexandra, but she is still unable to grab onto the tiny gold ball. While they zoom about, avoiding the supports and the beams, and then soon they’re out of the bleachers again, flying now behind them, out of view of the pitch, and thankfully, out of range of the bludgers. The girl’s balance seems off, and her broom begins to veer of its own accord, separating her distance with Alex until she is a full two feet away, though she tries to guide the broom back closer to where the snitch flies. Soon, there is a swift right turn and she follows the snitch back into the stadium, barely missing a beam to the head as she closes the distance between Alex and herself again.

“Campbell!” Eliza shouts. “Get to the nurse! Whittier! Bryce! Spread out! Cover that ground! Only two of you now! Good work, Alex! Keep going!” Either Eliza is no longer feeling the pain of letting the shot go through, or she has gotten too busy with her teammates’ plight to pay much attention to her own emotions. “Come on! Carver, focus! Whittier, watch out behind you! Come on, Alex!”

Charlie Linwood is totally distracted by the disappearance of the Seekers underneath the stands, eyes trying to follow them as he catches glimpses of yellow and blue through the beams–and then there’s Noémie again, and Alex with a cut. “Oi!” Then Charlie seems to remember his duties as a Beater, and spins around to look for the bludgers. Quickly he zooms, rather faster than normal, and the bludger is this time aimed for the Ravenclaw Chasers. He isn’t about to risk putting Alex off track by aiming at Noémie, that’s for certain.

Eldric Carver is very, very distracted by his state of disgustingness, but at the reappearance of Charlie where he belongs there’s a” Took you long enough, Linwood!” and a redoubling of efforts in order to look better. The bludger that missed Clavicle is zoomed toward, now, Eldric‘s expression determined that he get to it before one of the Ravenclaw Beaters can.

Alexandra Leong can’t hear anything but the whistling of the wind past her ears. She’s struggling with her control of her broom; with one arm injured, her turns are becoming less and less controlled. She’s slowing down, little by little, as the pain of her arm starts to register. The snitch is gaining a larger and larger lead on both Seekers, and it threatens to disappear into the sky once more. “Come on come on come on…” Alexandra mutters as she flattens herself further on her broom, hoping to gain speed and control.

Following their captain’s instructions, Carrie and Albert split off, veering sharply towards opposite sides of the field while Carrie accelerates, struggling to move past Clavicle. Albert, too, tries to maintain his speed as he spins off from Carrie – but a bludger is whistling towards him, and he lets out a yelp and wheels even further to the side, sending himself spinning into a barrel roll. Charlie saves him from the bludger, but vertigo is another story – Albert shakes his head quickly to clear it. From far ahead of him, Carrie still has time to laugh, “Leave the fancy flying to me, Albert!” as she speeds ever faster.

“Argh!” Tegan hollers as Clavicle shouts about the bludger, doing her best to go and intercept the one headed toward her chasers now. “Let’s pull close!” she suggests to Riley, flying in toward her team as fast as she can manage and rearing her bat back. The girl is soon amidst the thick of things, her bat held high as she whacks the bludger quickly toward Albert this time, trying to knock out as many opposing chasers as she can manage. “Get the other, would you?” she calls to Riley and bites her lip, following in the direction that she has hit the bludger in case of a quick return.

Riley Markham lofts his brows and dashes forward from having been more or less waiting at mid-pitch, sparing a somewhat side-long look toward Clavicle before pulling up high enough to collect the bludger, somewhat above the rest of the tightly knit group of chasers mingling below. A small bunt to hold the bludger more or less stationary is followed by a hard whack — supposedly in the direction of the approaching Eldric, in an attempt to de-bat him. Instead, however, the bludger archs upward toward Leong, quite by accident, in a startling burst of speed and power.

Rhian says, “Tegan has managed to get the Bludger away from Ribouet and Leong as the two Seekers now disappear among the stands… but there… Leong seems slightly hurt, loosing some ground on the Snitch. Gravely almost got hit by one of the other Bludgers, quite a close call as help is called for the Ravenclaw Chasers. There’s the Snitch, as it and the Seekers come back out onto the pitch. Ribouet seems to have lost a bit of ground on Leong but is working hard to gain it back. Campbell seems too hurt from the two Bludger blows in order to continue as she leaves the pitch to be seen by the Nurse. Linwood has learned his lesson and now sends one of the Bludgers back to the Ravenclaw Chasers who outnumber the Hufflepuffs 3 to 2 in their Chasers. Let’s see how long the Hufflepuffs can hold onto the Quaffle. The Bludgers are going everywhere, Bryce has had to dodge one, the beaters are going insane trying to keep the Ravenclaws off the Hufflepuffs or the Hufflepuffs from scoring.”

Going after Albert and getting between him and Carrie, Bailey watches the quaffle and Albert, trying to guard him as close as he the speed allows it.

Resisting the urge to shove her shoulder into Alexandra, Noémie flies straight for a moment, and then as the snitch ascends, she makes her way into the sky, flying up higher and higher, trying to get her fingers around it. Having the other seeker right neck-and-neck with her makes it more difficult, as well as the snitch staying just out of reach. Noémie‘s face is red from exertion as well as frustration at not having caught the snitch yet, despite the chase it has been. Grunts emit as she reaches out for it, trying to wrap her fingers around it, but only tapping it with them instead, and the snitch begins to descend again at a very steep angle. Noémie follows, however precariously diving as she has practiced so hard. The improvement is apparent, though she is still not all that great at it.

The situation among the Hufflepuff Chasers remains the same: Carrie is still in possession of the Quaffle, and the same bludger is still chasing after Albert. “It’s like that thing has it in for me!” Albert mutters, as he glances apprehensively behind him at the bludger, searching for his team’s Beaters. And then Bailey closes in on his other side, and Albert is caught weaving back and forth, frantically trying to avoid colliding with the bludger on one side and the Ravenclaw Chaser on the other. Carrie attempts to evade with a sharp curve that sends her into a sideways loop, holding on precariously with one hand while still trying to maintain her grasp on the Quaffle.

Charlie Linwood gives out a strangled yell as the bludger moves toward Alex, “This is why I was watching her!” He shoots off to intercept, while being mindful of not getting in the way. Difficult buisness this, as Charlie circles round behind them (sharp! thanks to a lot of practice at it) and manages, barely, to hit the bludger straight diagonally down the other way–more toward the ground than any particular group of people. His face is pale again, but furious.

Alexandra Leong‘s heart almost stops when Noémie grabs at the snitch and makes contact. Luckily, it’s not over yet, and as Noémie pulls into a steep dive Alexandra follows effortlessly. The dive ends only several feet from the ground. The Snitch flattens out it’s trajectory suddenly, and the Hufflepuff Seeker pulls up to follow. The trio – Noémie, Alex, and the snitch – continue straight at breakneck speeds, with neither Seeker within reach, until the snitch makes a sudden left turn. Alexandra pulls left hard, but her arm throbs, and her turn isn’t as sharp as it needed to be. She starts to lose speed as pain shoots up her arm.

Rhian says, “The Snitch flies high into the sky, the girls now neck and neck as they case after it. Ribouet seems to almost have it… but no, it dives to the ground, the two Seekers going after it. It seems one of the Bludgers likes Bryce as it continues to chase him around and away from Whittier who still goes for Douglass and a goal. However, Bryce comes back around and causes Whittier to go into a loop, trying to desperately hang onto the Quaffle. Bludgers flight back toward the Seekers once more though Linwood manages to protect them once more. A hard turn by the Snitch causes Leong to lose ground once more as it seems her arm is bothering her again.”

The flight to the groun causes Noémie to go breathless and she is perhaps just a bit slower than Alex in pulling out of it, and it takes several feet before she has managed to right herself and even up with the Hufflpeuff chaser. As the snitch turns left, Noémie follows suit, turning as hard as she can manage and thrusting her arm out, closing her fingers around the tiny ball with a shout of victory. She had managed to catch the snitch! Ravenclaw wins! She flies down to the center of the pitch and holds up the snitch, her face joyful, and are those tears on the Ravenclaw seeker’s face as she laughs for joy, thrusting her fist into the air again and again jubilantly. “We did it!” She shouts.

Eldric Carver is having a hard time keeping up with the bludger and the Hufflepuff Chasers, given that he had to completely change course to do so. Finally, he joins the fray, grip on his bat so tight his that the whitness in his knuckles seems to spread, he slams into the bludger full force, sending it arcing skyward, as much toward the Seeker-Snitch train as he can from here, hoping Alex will dodge and–there is a very, very loud string of curses here, as the vomit-and-hex covered Beater deflates, quite literally sinking down at a slow, defeated pace.

Rhian says, “Ribouet is still on the Snitch though and manages to catch the Snitch! Ravenclaw wins the match and the Cup! Final score is Ravenclaw – 160, Hufflepuff, 0. A marvelous game by both teams indeed with an excellent chase provided by our Seekers. A wonderful end to a wonderful season for Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff did a wonderful job as well. That is it for Quidditch this year, the next match not starting until November of this year. Well, I am Rhian Brecon of Ravenclaw and I’m signing off for the last time this year. Good luck with your end of term exams everyone.”

Alexandra Leong sinks dejectedly to the ground (luckily not too far up), holding her left arm with her right hand, and grimacing. She is clearly in pain – not surprising, as there is a rather large slither embedded in the poor arm. Tears are falling down her cheeks. She nearly falls off her broom as physical and emotional exhaustion catches up with her.

“Bloody — ” Tegan calls, pulling out of the chase she has been in, she makes her way down to the groun. “Bloody brilliant!” she calls gleefully and throws her arms around Noémie. “Champions!” Her voice rings out loud and echoes as she laughs with Noémie, her joy having overcome her previously serious attitude. “We did it!” The Ravenclaw bleachers seem to have erupted with incredibule noise at this and the girl is hopping up and down with sheer energy, though lord knows how she could have any left.

Keelan Walsh is watching, and has been, and several times she’s had the whistle up and had to drop it at the last moment. Now, however, as the Ravenclaw Seeker closes her hand around the snitch and announces the win, Keelan blows-hard-on the whistle and then, without looking much, zips down to the box. Amid the celebrating Ravenclaws (and the noise from the stands ringing in her ears), she shoves out her open hand. “Snitch please.” Pause, “So I can put it away.” From accross the pitch, some students, jubilant, carry the silver Quidditch cup. A very terse “Congratulations.” is all Keelan has besides a demand for things to be cleaned up. Poor Ravenclaws, a lot of them will have to go to Herbology this week.

Clavicle Gravely almost falls off the broom! “We won? WE WON! ALRIGHT! Great catch Noémie!” He does a prouette in the sky, a spin on the broom and zips off towards the ground where he will try to lift noémie up in a victory dance!

The fight goes out of the bludger – and out of Albert and Carrie, too, as the thunderous cheer erupts from the Ravenclaw bleachers. With one last look at each other, their energy fading swiftly into disappointment, the Chasers drift down to the ground, starting to cluster towards Alexandra and the fallen Marybeth.

Was that…? No, it couldn’t…or really? Noémie has caught the snitch and Ravenclaw has won the cup. It’s like a huge stone falling from Bailey‘s head and a wave of joy filling him up. “We won it! Wooohoooo!” he shouts, raising his fist and cheering wholeheartedly. Bailey performs a huge turn over the Ravenclaw bleachers and then lands on the pitch. He runs towards his teammates and helps Clavicle to lift up Noémie to celebrate their captain.

Looking quite green Marybeth stares up at Clavicle as if willing him to fall off of his broom when the game is won. “Well…” she croaks out rubbing her stomach. “Im still splitting up my bag of marbles so the joke is on you Ravenclaw.” Yes even with possibly broken ribs, a defunct stomach and scars of ravenclaw flirtation Marybeth is still a joker.

“Bravo!” Van calls as she has finally made her way to the ground, coming in to hug her captain and the other female beater. “Good on everyone!” she says, the tears that have been threatening to fall finally coming streaming down her face. “What a way to go out!” she comments, but her comments are drowned by the noise on the pitch as she celebrates with her teammates excitedly.

For the briefest of moments, Eliza‘s face crumples, her eyes closing against the sight and sound of the other team’s victory. But she opens them again, and swallows hard, and brings her broom down to earth in a smooth, controlled arc. Eliza steps lightly off of it, runs a hand backwards through her dark hair, and begins to stride, shoulders straight and posture upright, towards the center of the pitch for the closing handshake.

Charlie Linwood bites his lip and lets himself go limp. It was over. They hadn’t won, but they put up a good fight. Not typical behavior, this time when he flies down to the pitch he stays with the team, giving Alex a–well it’s almost kind look. “Want to go to the nurse, Leong?” That’s about as many words as he’s said to her in a row for a long time. Eliza, he doesn’t look at. Actually he’s mostly muttering things to his chest rather than looking up at people’s eyes or anything.

“Oh, right, sorry Professor,” Noémie tells Keelan and wipes her eyes from their tears as she hands over the snitch to the referee, detatching herself from her excited teammates. “No, no, guys,” she tells the boys who seem to be bent on picking her up in celebration, and she strides over to Eliza, putting her hand out much more cheerfully. The girl’s face cannot hide her obvious joy at being the winners of the match. “Well matched,” she tells Eliza with a mighty grin. Looking to the stands, there appears to be a Ravenclaw fifth year who looks to be trying to garner her attention, and she waves excitedly. “I’ll see you all in the commonroom later, there’s sure to be a party!” she tells her team and trots off, looking at the stands, where the boy has disappeared, and makes her way off the pitch very quickly, broom still in hand.

Clavicle Gravely then does something differen’t After hopping around with the team, he crosses the field to the hufflebuff side and offers first, Charlie a hand. “Good show.” he says stoically.

Keelan Walsh closes her hand on the snitch and turns to put it in the box. The bludgers have moved in and are strapped down, still somewhat wiggly from getting used. With a click, all balls in need of restraint are returned, and now the Quaffle is placed in as well. Noémie runs off without the cup and so it is presented to the rest of the team, though it seems that as Keeper and oldest, it is shoved closer to Van. Keelan, for her part, moves away from the students (especially as those in the stands trickle down) and out.

“Good match,” Eliza replies, with a firm nod and a sincere tone, giving Noémie’s hand a strong shake, with a true, honest smile that even lingers for a moment after the handshake has finished. And then Eliza is off towards the edge of the pitch, reaching Alexandra’s side in a few long, swift strides. “Come on,” she says softly, stretching her hand down to touch Alexandra’s shoulder gently. “Let’s get you up to the nurse.”

Alexandra Leongshakes her head at Charlie, although her arm is turning an interesting shade of purple. She is trying very hard not to burst into tears, but her efforts are less than successful. In a few seconds, she completely loses control and flings herself into Charlie, sobbing into his shoulder.

Does Charlie look like a crying post? Still, he’s in such a subdued mood that he merely pats her back a bit awkwardly and lets her cry. “It’s okay, it isn’t your fault the Snitch went under there. You’d've had it otherwise, really.” Clavicle’s offer of a handshake is just stared at–he does, after all, have a girl sobbing on him. He still won’t look at Eliza, and probably won’t for at least a week or so after this.

Clavicle Gravely lets his hand drop awkwardly. “Right then.” he nods and looks to the other Hufflepuffs, “Good match.” but feeling more awkward then anything he heads back to his side’s locker room.

There is no anger in Eliza‘s expression as she looks down at her teammates – just sympathy, and a little of her own sorrow. “Come on,” she says again, still softly, with a gentle but strong tug at Alexandra’s shoulder, transferring the weeping girl from poor bewildered Charlie to herself. “Let’s go.” Eliza swallows hard, and starts to walk her sobbing Seeker off the field.

are here.

Stepping out onto the Quidditch pitch, Noémie breathes in deeply. She has her broom in hand, though she looks about as distracted as one could get. She crosses her arms across her chest as she surveys the cold, hard pitch before her. While it is not covered in snow, it is still quite cold out, and the ground has little give as she strides out to the center of it, tugging her scarf up higher around her neck. There is oddly nothing set up on the pitch today, no obstacle courses, nor any extra equipment brought out to the course. Just the quaffle, two restrained bludgers and bats, and Noémie with her broom.

Van comes trotting onto the pitch, having also gathered her broom, and crosses her arms over each other. “It’s too bloody cold,” she complains, though one might wonder why she only seems to have meager amounts of warm clothing on. The seventh year yawns a bit, too, as if to make a point, then looks to her captain. “Can we make this quick?” she asks, jumping from foot to foot while she tries to warm herself up a bit. No others have yet made it to the pitch, and she almost looks as if she hopes they won’t, and the practice on this cold day would be cancelled.

Clavicle Gravely is coming back to the pitch, he’d been out earlier. So his face is already red from cold and his scarf lined with frost. But he grins as he adjusts his gloves. “I’d gotten a warming charm on them if anyone else wants one. It’s on my socks too.”

“Good day for a practice, don’t you think?” Tegan comments as she strides up and cuffs Van on the shoulder. The girl grins widely at the older teammate, and it stands to wonder why she is suddenly in such a good mood. “What’s in store today? No obstacle course, I see. Pity, too, because I’d have liked to whack a chaser good with it.” Tegan grins all around and is clearly trying to rile someone up, but the effect just comes off as her being giddy, and she shrugs again, a grin still plastered to her face.

Just behind, on Tegan’s heels, Bailey‘s hair seems to be a mess, and his face is quite red, and is that sweat? Despite the cold, it looks as if Bailey has been up to something before making his way out to the pitch for practice. He doesn’t say anything, though there is a smug grin on his face. Perhaps he’s got a sweetheart now, or perhaps the boy has just managed to beat someone at a particularly rousing game of Wizard’s Chess. Either way, he looks as if he’s raring to get into the air immediately and get some practicing done.

“Well, I was thinking that the chasers, you all could go over and work on your passing a bit. Not that you need it, per se, but I want to see how you manage to do some long passes. So, here, take the quaffle, and try to change it up some, show variety. Don’t worry about dropping it; that’s what practice is for, after al.” A pause as Noémie looks at the other three teammates before her. “You beaters, I think I’ll want you to practice hitting quaffles towards the hoops there, and Van, of course, you’ll try to block those.” She nods, and then sets her broom down, trotting to the shed. It is a moment or six before she’s back out with two extra quaffles in hand, which she tosses one to each of the beaters. She takes the one from the box and throws it to one of the chasers, before ascending. “I’ll be flying about the pitch, and I’ll stop if I think I need to let you know something, but I’ve got to work on my dives.” With that, she picks up her broom and mounts it, beginning to fly around the pitch at a steady pace to start.

With a bit of a sigh, Van realizes that she isn’t going to get off quite as easy as she would’ve liked this time around, and mounts her broom, flying slowly up to the hoops. Hey, Noémie isn’t going to watch them, Van is certainly going to take her time! The keeper gets herself situated in front of the hoops, while glancing out to see if the beaters have made it up yet. She has a moment longer while they situate themselves and she begins to set her hair to rights, which is, by some unknown reason, still hanging freely and not covered by any hat or even earmuffs. Clearly Van was hoping Noémie would cut things extra short today.

Clavicle Gravely snags the quaffle and grins. He an Bailey had been practicing this after all. “You betcha Nomes.” he grins as he takes to the air with the sandsweeper, only wobbling a touch when he pulls his goggles on well. As he circles to make a long pass, “Hey Bailey! you got any broom wax? I’m out.” he zips around a touch as he uses the broom to spin a touch, this gives his throw a lot more force and distance.

Tegan nods and oofs a bit as she is thrown the quaffle. The fourth year tucks it under her arm and makes her way over to grab the smaller of the bats that’s left out for use. Readying her broom, she hops on it and starts to ascend. “This is a bit odd,” she comments, trying to get used to having to handle the quaffle, bat and broom. Soon she manages to get herself put to rights, and tosses up the quaffle, rearing her arm back to give it a mighty whack. The quaffle starts going off in the right direction, but being as it is a much different sort of ball than what she’s used to hitting, it falls short of her target, missing Van by at least ten feet. Accio quaffle is heard! and the quaffle comes flying back towards her as she tucks her wand back away.

Bailey shakes his head. “No, I’ve left all of my broom kit in my dorms. I’ll bring it next time if you need me to, though,” he offers with a shrug, pulling a hat out of his pocket and pulling it down over his ears to try to keep his head warm. “It’s SO cold!” he calls to his fellow chasers as he makes his way wide, to catch the quaffle. Looking about as Noémie passes, He pauses a moment, then chucks the ball out towards David, who in turn tosses the ball back towards Clavicle. “Let’s try flying in a circle while we do this,” he calls, adding demonstration by waving his arm in a circle. “After all, we’ll be flying when we make these passes in the game.”

Flying full circle around the pitch, Noémie seems to have gotten her groove back and glances around as everyone gets set up and gets going on their drills. No comments are made at the time, instead, she flies up high above the pitch, as if it were a match, and looks around, then begins to dive hard towards the ground. Flying, flying, flying, and soon she is down to the ground, pulling up hard from this difficult maneuver, and looking as if she isn’t entirely comfortable with the situation that she has just previously put herself in. Instead of reflecting on it further, however, she flies up high towards the bleachers, and then higher, and higher still, until she is far above her team, and perhaps ready to try this again.

“Augh!” Van calls, diving to block a bludger that Riley has hit to her. She misses catching it, and the quaffle flies past her. It does not go through the hoop however, and instead she flies down quickly to actch it before giving it a return throw to Riley, as far as she can manage. The keeper puts her arms up and rolls her shoulders in anticipation for Tegan’s next shot and manages to dive and block it this time, catching it in her hands and throwing it, too, towards the beater in question. “C’mon, change it up!” she calls. “Don’t keep going for that same hoop!” For one who was largely disinterested in the practice to begin with, she is goading the beaters a bit harshly.

Clavicle says, “Warm yourself by thinking about Slytherin not getting a score on us.” he laughs. He catches the quaffle. “I was also hoping we could come up with a few hand signals to use with each other. So the opposing team doesn’t hear us yell what we’re up to to each other. Y’know? Like a circle is Come round on my left, a counterclockwise circle is come around on my right, and lets make like 4 positions to have one two three or four fingers up to let the person with the quaffle knows where we can be if they need to pass, or they can tell us where to go to get a pass. It’s just an idea I was mulling over.” He hurls the quaffle to David who sends it back towards Bailey. “Bloody bones .. She’s pouring it on!” he states gasping at Noémie’s move. ”

Tegan laughs a bit at Van as she says this, flying down to retrieve the quaffle which hasn’t quite made it the full distance back. Waiting as Riley makes another shot, the beate tosses the quaffle in the air again and gives it a hard whack, not exactly paying attention to where the quaffle is directed, and she manages to send it flying rather upwardly of the hoops. “Oops,” she calls to both Riley and Van and shrugs. “I’ll go it again.” She summons the quaffle back to her once more and then gives it another whack, this time in a more straight line towards the hoops, a different one this time than her previous shot had gone.

“I dunno, I’d never remember that kind of stuff. It could slow us down,” Bailey responds and catches the quaffle more with his stomach than his hands. “I’m moving out a little,” he tells his fellow chaser and widens his berth from them a good deal, though staying close enough to be able to shoot the quaffle to his teammates. “She’s just practicing her dives,” he comments in response to Clavicle’s gaping. “She said that was what she was going to do after all. Anyway, that’s why I’m not a seeker. I’m awful at dives and the like.” Back on topic now, Bailey. He gives the Quaffle a hard throw towards Clavicle this time, using the full force of his arm, now that he’s so much farther from his teammate in the circling.

Noémie has no comments for any of her chasers, even as she comes zooming down through the middle of their circular formation. This could perhaps be because she hasn’t heard any of their comments, or it could conversely be because she simply has nothing to add to their conversations. This dive is considerably less steep, though it is from a much greater height as she begins to fly down more and more quickly, stopping with many feet to spare, and looking much more pleased at this dive, in general. The captain takes a deep breath before doing another two laps around the entire length of the pitch, chuckling as Van mutters some extremeties at just the moment when Noémie is passing behind her.

“And curse you, too, for flying by right then!” Van adds, sucking on her finger some more, having clearly been injured a bit just a moment before. “You don’t have to hit it so bloody hard, Riley,” she calls to her teammate, cradling her hand perhaps a bit dramatically as she waits for the pain to subside. She does continue to cradle the hand still after the pain has stopped completely, but only for show. She then dives, as Tegan bats another quaffle at her, and manages to block this one, too. She then tosses the quaffle back towards Tegan and prepares herself for another of Riley’s shots, which flies right past her and through the hoop with a loud clang. Van doesn’t seem pleased by this and doesn’t make any movement to retrieve it for the younger beater, instead, deciding that he might just gather his quaffle on his own.

Clavicle Gravely nods to Bailey. “Yeah, I hope her hand doesn’t slip, that’s a lot of speed to work off.” he grins, admittedly impressed with her pull outs. “Well Think it over about the handsignals Bails, they could give us a minor advantage against a team.” He grins. “The army uses it. As do muggles in the America’s in games.” He manages a catch but has to drop off the broom by one hand, he flings it back to Bailey and scrabbles back up on the broom to get control as the sandsweeper starts a slow spiral down as he makes the maneuver. He manages a rise again before he’s close to the ground and grins over to the other chasers. “Bother! but I got it.” Clavicle is doing better now that he’s not as worried about bludgers. He pulls back into his place in the circle.

Tegan holds onto the quaffle for a moment, flying to a different angle, both a bit higher, and a bit more to the side, and then readies herself again to make her shot. Up goes the quaffle, and then just as it’s in the right position, she gives it a good hard whack, and it zooms towards the keeper. This time, however, she’s gifted with a loud CLANG! as the quaffle goes through the hoop. Recalling Van’s previous actions towards Riley, Tegan slides her own wand out again and calls the quaffle to her, saving time and energy for the older chaser. Tegan glances over her shoulder, and while the chasers might not seem all that interesting, her gaze seems to linger for just a moment longer than it ought.

“Well, I just think we’re moving too fast in the game to even see the motions,” the chaser comments with a shrug. “Stop goofing around, are you trying to get us into trouble?” Bailey calls while shaking his head. “Don’t let Noémie see you doing that! I don’t want laps today! ‘Specially not the running kind!” He laughs a bit as he says this, obviously recalling that mid-fall practice in the pouring rain, when he had not been more grateful to get off the pitch, for once. “Over here,” he calls with a clap of his hands. “Y’can advise Noémie that you were thinking it might work to use hand signals, though, see what she thinks. I just know I’d forget ‘em all, if we even managed to see them on the pitch.” He shrugs again.

“Do get back onto your broom, Clavicle,” Noémie calls with a shake of her head while she hovers far above the pitch. “It’s better not to have any causalties during practice, after all. We want to have all healthy teammates so we can slaughter Slytherin this weekend!” She laughs as she says this and shrugs a bit, turning her attention back away from the group of chasers to return to her own task of dives. Just a few more, she decides, and she’ll call it good. She soon begins to descend with more speed than any of her previous dives, and is on her way towards the ground quickly before pulling out of it to fly steeply up into the air again. While this dive had had the most speed, it certainly hadn’t been the most impressive that she had managed.

Grumbling, Van readjusts her position on her broom to better be able to see the two beaters with, now that they are farther apart. Two quaffles come at her more quickly this time and she yells. “One at a time, else it’s not even hardly fair!” It appears as if perhaps the Keeper’s attention is waning as she continues to try to block, and indeed manages to block one of the two quaffles that were shot at her, and tosses the one she caught back to Riley, though she is only guessing at this point who the shot came from.

Clavicle Gravely finishes the maneuver and takes his place in the flying circle grinning a bit. “Right. Er…Just had to try it you know? Never know when something like that would be good in a game right?” He catches a shot from David and zips around to toss it towards Bailey. His face is quite red from the cold. “Right then, so tell me? If I can’t feel my nose anymore, is that bad?” he laughs a bit “I should have heat charmed the ruddy scarf!”

Tegan‘s attention is still on a certain chaser as Van has blocked both the shots, and it is several moments before she hears, “Tegan!” shouted rather loudly by two individuals and snaps her attention forward again. “Sorry!” she calls and her face deepens to a rather purple shade as she calls the errant quaffle back to her. She hardly waits a moment before sending it back towards Van with a determined look on her face. It is clear that she does not want to be asked about her moment of distraction.

Bailey nods and lets out a laugh. “Well, it’s normal for this time of year, anyway. Glad we’re moving, else I think I’d be more frozen than just my noze and lips!” He chuckles as he chucks the Quaffle towards David again. “Ugh, I hate winter practice. Too bad we don’t have room to practice it in the school.” Bailey pauses as he ponders this, and nearly misses a toss to him back from David. He grabs onto it with the tips of his fingers though, and brings it back in to toss it over to Clavicle. “I hope we’re done soon. I could really go for some cocoa or perhaps some warm pumpkin juice!”

Clavicle Gravely looks at Tegan “What gives? you got the sun in your eyes?” he doesn’t clue in that one of the chasers is being scoped out, maybe if she drooled and it froze he’d have a clue. He turns and catches the quaffle with an oof. “Good one.” he zips around and heaves it at David. “What’s with Tegan, she’s staring over here.”

“Alright, bring it in!” Noémie calls, slowing out of a dive instead of flying up out of it, and then landing on the ground. She puts her hands on her hips as she looks around at everyone, breathing in deeply and stretching out a bit as she has landed. The captain looks quite worn, clearly the dives have worn her out quite a bit. “This was a good practice, I think,” she hollers to them while still waiting for them all to join her on the ground. She sets her broom down, and rather nonchalantly plops herself on the ground to stretch out in other ways.

Seizing her opportunity to stop practicing, Van avoids the quaffle flying towards her and instead directs herself towards the ground, the glee on her face very apparent. The seventh year doesn’t look as if she even wants to wait out while Noémie gives any final words or instructions. Landing, she strides over to where Noémie is. “I’ve got some homework to do, so if you don’t mind…?” It comes out as a question, but Van does not wait for Noémie’s response before she trots off the pitch and has vanished from view.

Clavicle Gravely looks at Tegan “What gives? you got the sun in your eyes?” he doesn’t clue in that one of the chasers is being scoped out, maybe if she drooled and it froze he’d have a clue. He turns and catches the quaffle with an oof. “Good one.” he zips around and heaves it at David. “What’s with Tegan, she’s staring over here.” He zips down in a Noémie like dive to pull out at the last moment. He grins at Noémie. “Sure thing boss.”

It is Tegan‘s shot that is missed and she quickly calls it to her one last time before giving Clavicle a red-faced glance. She says nothing, however, before flying down to the ground, grateful for the distraction that the end of practice will bring. After all, outing their feelings now would be bad for the both of them, especially as Bailey seems to have been entirely oblivious to her glance. She lands on the ground and seeing her captain stretch, begins to do so as well, though admittedly she is doing it rather half-heartedly (as usual).

Bailey shrugs off the comment and in an effort not to bring any further attention to the situation, comes to land on the ground, rather distant from the rest of them and stretches his arms over his head with his broom in hand. “That’s all then?” he asks in a curious voice, with not a single glance towards the female beater. “It was a great practice,” he tells everyone, looking around. “Very useful for the match, I think.” Then again, his opinion is not exactly the one that matters in this situation and he pauses, waiting for Noémie’s response.

“Yes, good practice all around,” she tells them all with a wide smile. “If you don’t mind, I’m going to go back into the air to practice a bit more — after all, it can’t hurt, right?” Noémie chuckles as she says this and glances at everyone. “Feel free to leave everything here, and I’ll clean it up on my way back into the castle. Go and get yourselves warm, and then you’d all better be working on your assignments. I don’t want to have a handicap because someone didn’t finish his homework!” A pointed look goes to Riley as she says this, though her face is not at all cruel. She stands and picks up her broom, climbing onto it and then flying up high into the air, doing figure eights up far above the stands.

Clavicle Gravely carries his broom in with him to work on waxing it. “I need to tim the brush too.” he chatters with a shivver. “See you all Later.” But as Noémie goes off to practice, He gathers all the practice equipment into the bags and carriers to make it easier for her. He then tramps off towards the castle.

“Good practice, everyone! See you tomorrow!” Tegan calls, tucking her broom under her shoulder to fix an unbuttoned bit of her sweater, and then trots towards the broom shed. A moment later, she emerges and makes her way back to the castle, sans broom. The speed at which she exits the pitch seems to signify that she has somewhere important to be. Soon she is gone from view.

Bailey, too, heads off the pitch, offering a wave to his teammates as they all disperse. The chaser seems to hesitate a moment before putting his own broom into the shed, and then leaves, strangely in a different direction than the one Tegan had headed in, though it is safe to assume that they would either head to the Great Hall for something warm, or to their commonroom, so the varied paths could increase suspicion on the part of others, should they choose to notice. It is not long before he, too, is out of sight, however, and his doings concealed from those who are not specifically following him.

Sometime in the grace period between classes and dinner, where the students aren’t expected to be anywhere in particular, Kelly Pantall makes her way out of the castle, no concession given to the weather except for her usual school robes and a pair of blue woolen gloves. As might be expected, there are goosebumps on all her visible flesh and her arms are wrapped tightly around herself to stave off the cold – exactly how well this actually works is questionable, but her expression is set with determination and she bites down on her lower lip. Oh, no, while there’s any chance of anyone seeing her, she’s not intending to shiver from the cold, even if it is snowing and she’s scarcely protected against a stiff wind.

Crashing out the grand front doors of Hogwarts, Kalynn shrieks as Briony gains on her. “Told you I can run down stairs faster,” giggles Kalynn, shooting a glance over her shoulder at the trailing Gryffindor. Nevermind that Kalynn had a good half-minute head start. “Brionyyy,” Kalynn cries, slowing down and bringing her hands up to her head. “I think my braids are getting loose. The ribbons don’t help to hold them in!” the little girl looks a bit panicked as she turns backwards to look at Briony. “How are yours holding up?” she asks, stepping slowly into the snow.

Truth be told, Briony‘s look like they’ve not fared any better. One side seems to be losing its ribbon entirely while the other braid slowly is becoming unraveled. “I think we need more practice is all, Kalynn,” Briony answers, trying to resist the urge to pull on her braids as she tugs on her scarf to warm her better. “Ah, it’s snowing again,” she comments and sighs a bit throwing the unravelling braid over her shoulder. “We should redo them again, Kalynn.”

Standing about three feet away from the school building, Aisling has her head thrown back, with her tongue poking out, trying to eat some snowflakes. As she listens to the Gryffindors coming outside, she pulls her tongue in and stands up straightly, taking in the scene properly. Seeing Kelly, the young girl’s eyes narrow, and she glances between Kelly and the snow several times, before scooping up some frustratingly cold snow and trying to make a proper snowball.

Well Kelly, Kalynn and Briony aren’t the only Gryffindor girls who have come out to enjoy the snow. Rawnie is running outside the front doors just after Briony with a scarf wrapped tightly over her small face and a hat down around her ears. The affect is a bit comical to look at but at least its warm. Her cloak is on backwards and her socks seem to be tripple layered today with mismatching mittens on her hands and a feirce michevious glint in her little green eyes as if searching out a target. Yes Rawnie is going to take no prisoners today.

Narrowing her eyes at the ground in front of her, as if the patch of snow has committed some heinous crime against her, Kelly bites down all the harder on her lip and draws herself a little bit away from her raucous housemates. Whatever the others happen to be doing, she’s certainly not enjoying the snow. Exactly why she continues to stand there, looking grumpy and glaring at the snow, is uncertain. There are certainly other, quieter places to go and think – but she’s here now, and no raucous students are going to stop her.

“You mean right now?” Kalynn replies to Briony, biting her lip and surely not resisting her urge to tug on the end of a sad-looking braid. “It’s to hard standing up, plus we need a comb,” Kalynn points out, sighing and glancing around. Upon spotting Kelly, Kalynn‘s eyebrows raise up as she asks, “What’s Kelly doing? It’s cold out here,” the little girl notes as she flings a dragging end of her scarf around her neck. Giggling at the passing Rawnie, Kalynn says in a cheerful tone, “But not that cold, Rawnie!”

“Well, not right now, of course!” Briony replies with a giggle to her friend. “I think I’m going to take mine out, though, because it’s going to fall out and I don’t want to lose these pretty ribbons so close to Christmas. Mum and dad might not get me more otherwise!” Briony looks truly concerned at the prospect of this, and therefore gingerly unties the ribbons and unravels the braids, putting the ribbons into her sweater pocket and then readjusting her scarf around her neck, pulling the remainder of her now-kinky hair to hang free and loose. “I like it, don’t you?” Briony comments, rubbing her arms, then falling to the ground with a giggle. “Snow angel!” She starts to slide her arms and legs back and forth, making exactly what she has just shouted about.

Clavicle Gravely sends the owl off to the owlery and scoops to make a snowball. “Oy! Kelly!”

When greet Rawnie smiles and waves a bright red mitten to Kalynn but with the green Mitten she is busy scooping up some snow. After rolling it into a tight ball Rawnie flings the snowball at the poor unsuspecting Kelly. What are friends for right?

Clavicle Gravely gins hugely as he tosses the snowball up and catches it. “Want to have a snowball fight then?” he grins hugely at the girl. “Or are you chicken.”

Seeing Rawnie’s snowball hit Kelly, Aisling chuckles and tugs on one of her two long plaits with one hand, the other still holding her malformed snowball. Letting go of her plait, she tries again to form her snowball properly. Having gotten as far along in making her snowball as she feels she’s going to get, she throws it in the direction of Clavicle, before looking around for a tree to hide behind.

Alerted back to the goings-on around her at the sound of Clavicle’s voice, Kelly barely has time to even think about formulating a response before Rawnie begins throwing snowballs at her nonetheless. As much as she tries to dive out of the way, she moves too late and the snowball hits her square in the chest. “Nice one, idiot!” She snaps in response, planting her hands on her hips and glaring at the girl. “And – what? No, I do not want to have a snowball fight with anyone, especially not you or the stupid little kid!” Because, obviously, Rawnie is such a little kid compared to the big ol’ third year. Nonetheless, she bends over and begins forming a snowball. Just in the name of revenge, of course.

“Look, Kalynn! They’re throwing Snowballs!” Briony squeals a bit more loudly than her stealthy crawling up from her snowangel would have her appear. Soon she is gathering her own snowball from the snow that she has displaced with her angel and ducking down low, as if being huddled will keep her hidden until the most opportune moment. Without a moment’s thought, she chucks her snowball at Rawnie, giggling fiercely. “Take that, firstie!” she calls and looks to Kalynn with a grin on her face.

Clavicle Gravely grins and wings the snowball at Kelly’s back neck while she’s bending over. to get it all down her robe, Because he is an evil second year of course. “Well then, seeing as you aren’t in a snowball fight. I suppose I shouldn’t have done that then! HAH!”

“Hey I ain’t stupid!” Rawnie stomps her foot in the snow but it just dosn’t have the effect that it would had it been in doors on the hard stone floors. “You just wait Kelly! Im gunner make you soaking wet!” Rawnie kneels down getting another large hand full of snow. Just as the little girl has her snowball nice and packed she gets clobered down the front with snow. “Ah! Hey! Yer gonna pay!” Rawnie instead tosses her snowball at Briony!

Kalynn DeNatale can hardly contain her laugher and excitement. “Nice angel, Bri,” the girl comments with a giggle as she bends down to pack a snowball of her very own. Glancing up in time to see Rawnie send a projectile at her friend, Kalynn sets hers loose on Rawnie with quite a hard throw for the size of the girl. “Hah!” Kalynn shouts before kneeling again, trying to look out for snow coming in her direction.

“You are SO going to pay, Icky!” Kelly snaps in response – her snowball formulated, she apparently forgets about her intent to attack Rawnie and instead flings it at Clavicle. Her aim is so poor that Clavicle is probably the least likely person to actually be hit by it, but it’s easy enough to tell that she’s aiming it particularly at him. As for the nickname – as always, her tone wavers between insult and endearment, never entirely sure whether she considers her nickname for him a good thing or not. “I didn’t want to fight with anyone, but – oh, oh, you FAIL, Icky!” And, again, she forms another snowball, eyes darting around for the most appropriate target. She hasn’t totally given up on the firstie, yet.

Briony is beaned directly in the top of the head and gasps. “Oh no, you did not!” she calls to Rawnie. “Hey, let’s create a fort here. I bet we could use this snow here and push it all together for a wall!” The girl giggles and starts pushing together a manmade snowdrift of sorts while glancing every few moments at the action out yonder. She soon seems to lose interest in her half-made fort and starts packing up another snowball, sending it flying in Kelly’s direction this time, with a grin now spread wide across her face.

Rawnie Weller is again pelted with a snowball and now she is quick to dive behind one of the shrubs. “Hey! No fair gangin up!” He voice is full of laughter however and she makes herself busy scooping up a bit of snow to make another deadly snowball of Gryffindor…. revenge. She pops up from behind her shrub for only a second flinging her snowball at Kalynn!

Clavicle Gravely LAUGHS as he runs to the side. He tries to grab a set of more snow to pack it as he dodges. “Come on then…you weren’t even trying!” He gets another one ready “Are we doin’ teams here or is this a free for all?”

From behind her tree, Aisling constructs another snowball, packing it together as tightly as she can. Stepping out in front of the tree, forgetting again about protection from thrown objects – after all, no one’s thrown anything at her yet! – she throws her snowball towards Kelly with relatively good aim – as in, it didn’t go backwads – and giggling like, well, like an eleven year old schoolgirl. Why not? She is. Glancing at Clavicle, she yells, “Free for all!”

“Aaah!” shrieks Kalynn, turning her back on an incoming snowball which hits her left shoulder. “Okay, Rawnie,” Kalynn admits as she is rolling her next ball of frozen ammunition. “Huuuuh!” Kalynn discharges with the effort of her present chucking of her snowball at Clavicle. “Ruuun!” Kalynn yells, grinning as she looks to Rawnie and Briony in turn. The little girl nods to Briony’s suggestion of a fort as she scurries behind her friend.

As she is hit again by two snowballs, first Briony’s, then Aisling’s, Kelly yelps out in response and drops her snowball, throwing herself down into the snow, army-crawling along the ground (and getting her robes thoroughly soaked in the meantime) until she reaches the relative safety of the trees, waiting in hiding until someone comes near. Who throws snowballs at an enemy when you can crash-tackle them and sit on them until they apologise?

Rawnie Weller spies Aisling who seems to be the only one who is dry so far. Very quietly she stoops down behind her shrub and makes another snowball before popping up and flinging it at her! “Take that girl I never met!”

Clavicle Gravely is laughing hugely as Kalynn’s snowball pelts the side of his head. “Hey!” He turns and wings the snowball at her. Quidditch chasing practice is paying off. He laughs as he sees Kelly army crawling, so hard in fact he falls over into the snow.

Aisling O‘Cormac gets hit in the shoulder by a snowball, splashing wetness all over the girl’s left side. Bending down, she quickly makes some snowballs, aiming for quantity rather than quality. Throwing one at both Clavicle and Kelly while they’re down, she also throws another one towards Rawnie. “AND YOU HAVE SO MET ME!” she yells at the girl as well.

Though she does, in fact, get hit by Aisling’s next snowball, Kelly pays little mind to the goings-on until she is in a safe place to hide until she can find someone to tackle. Anyone? Aaaaanyone? And yes, now she’s resting against a tree breathlessly, soaked to her skin and not wearing very useful clothing for this activity – but, but, is that a smile peeking through her grim expression? Could she actually be having fun?

Rawnie Weller manages to duck down behind her shrub before Aisling’s snowball hits her. She giggles maddly and waits for what seems like forever to an eleven year old. She is quietly rolling many snowballs and begins pileing them up behind her shrub for rapid fire action later.

Clavicle Gravely scrabbles up and goes a Kelly hunting. He grins as he makes a particularly BIG snowball as he follows the Kelly tracks. He hand motions to Kalynn to go around the other side of the tree!

Briony is soon getting another group of snowballs together before here. “Here, Kalynn, we can share,” she offers quite generously and giggles rather loudly, ducking behind the fort as a stray snowball comes her way. It skims her hair, which is actually already quite damp from her snowangel and the one snowball she’s already been hit with. Quickly, she begins to fire out snowballs, at whomever they might fly, one after another, until she has managed to throw at least ten out into the area on the lawn.

Nodding to Clavicle, Kalynn leaves the protective safety of the ‘behind Briony’ with a laugh and an “Okay!” and stoops down to scoop up two of the snowballs and walks in a manner that could not possibly be considered stealthy by anyone. Going around the other side of the tree, Kalynn grins as she sees Kelly. “Kellllyyyyy,” Kalynn sings, grinning.

Having made a bunch of snowballs, Aisling excitedly throws them in every direction she can see people, leaving one left. Stalking towards Rawnie, hides behind several bushes and shrubs, trying to remain surreptious, and unseen. This may or may not work, seeing as the scarf around her neck is bright orange.

Being a bit preocupied by her own snowball store Rawnie finally completes her ammo pile. Rawnie peeks over her shrub and begins lobbing snowballs at Briony’s fort! “Im gunner bombard yer fort and take over!” She giggles and does her best imitation of a pirate laugh.

At the sound of Kalynn’s voice behind her, Kelly turns – not only turns, in fact, but dives forward, planting her shoulder in the poor girl’s stomach and possibly pushing her over onto the ground. “Aha! Gotcha!” At a bit of a loss as to what to do next, she merely offers a second, “Aha!” and tries to incapacitate the other Gryffindor as much as possible, pinning her arms down and so forth. “Now, apologise!”

Still lobbing snowballs as fast as she can and hoping that they’re hitting someone, Briony just narrows her eyes and throws the orbs harder as Rawnie approaches, hardly waiting a moment to aim before they are out of her hands and headed toward the younger girl. “You will never get my fort!” Neverminding that the fort is really more of Briony hiding behind a pile of poorly packed snow, Briony is protective of it! After all, once hers, always hers.

Coughing and sputtering with far more drama than is warranted for her present situation (though there is surprise in Kalynn‘s eyes as she goes down and is pinned), Kalynn whines and cries with false passion as she wails, “I am sorrrrrry, Kelly! Queen Kelly!” she tacks on with a happy laugh. “Let me goooo!” Kalynn says as her hands writhe in resistance.

Apparently concluding that this just isn’t fun enough, Kelly sits herself on Kalynn, still pinning her arms down. “You’re not really sorry! You’re just saying that!” As much as the older girl tries to sound serious and annoyed, she can’t help but giggle – yes, giggle – a little bit. “But I’ll accept your apology, if you attack Icky for me.”

Stalking ever closer to Rawnie, Aisling grins happily with enjoyment as she prepares to tackles the other firstie and smother her last snowball into her hair. Creeping ever closer, she lets out a yell of enjoyment as she leaps for Rawnie.

“Ooooffh”, is Kalynn‘s release as she is sat on, though not for the first time in her life. It was one of her brothers’ favourite pastimes before she came to Hogwarts to pin her down, and she was always (and continues to be) to little and weak to resist such attacks. But Kalynn nods as well as she can. “Okay, Kelly,” she agrees, still writhing. “Who’s Icky?”

“Ack!” Yells Rawnie as she is tackled into the snow just in time to miss being hit by Briony’s snowball. Shaking her head Rawnie rolls around with Aisling trying to smoosh a snowball into her hair as well but mostly shes just getting the two of them soaked.

“ClavICle.” Kelly explains pompously, as if it was obviously to anyone who gave it any thought, though she does get distracted rather quickly and looks around. “Well. Or Rawnie. Yeah, get Rawnie for me.” She doesn’t move from her seat on the poor girl, however, waiting for a response to her next instruction. “Is that an acceptable – stop WIGGLING! – agreement?” Because, obviously, the younger girl has no right to wiggle when Kelly wants to sit on her.

Giggling yet more, Kalynn nods before wondering if that counted as wiggling and switches to saying, “Yes, very acceptable,” and squinting her eyes shut. “Now get off me, Kelly! I’ll get Rawnie!” Warm memories of scrapping on the floor of her house in Coventry flood back to her as she shouts “Hurrrr!” and tries to no avail to heave Kelly off of her.

Giggling rather loudly as she watches Rawnie get tackled by the other firstie, Briony pauses in her snowball throwing temporarily, if only to gear herself back up to lob snowballs toward Aisling. It is only a moment before she recognizes that there is some action going on behind her. “Hey, get off of Kalynn!” she calls to Kelly. “She’s on my team!” There are teams?” Soon Briony‘s snowballs are redirected towards Kelly in attempts to knock her off. How well this might work, well, only fate can tell.

Aisling O‘Cormac giggles as she wrestles in the snow with her fellow first year, getting everyone involved wet in the process. Trying to get Rawnie wetter than her, however, doesn’t appear to be working, although the young girl seems quite happy anyway. “Hey, look at that!” she yells to Rawnie, trying to get some snow into the other girl’s mouth.

Clavicle Gravely grins and Hurls the Huge snowball at the pair of girls, hoping to hit the victorious sitter! “HAH!” two for the price of one. It seems a good enough idea! “Look out below!” but it would have to be a lucky throw to actually hit the two girls.

Yes, Kelly does get hit with these snowballs, and yes, she does roll off Kalynn and scampers off behind a tree again, though whether the two events are actually linked in any way is entirely in the eye of the beholder. After a moment, the third year seems to conclude that only sissies hide behind trees, so she hoists herself up into the branches, scooping a handful of snow from where it rests on the bough, and flings it at Clavicle. “TAKE THAT, ICKY!”

Having so much fun and being in such a good mood Rawnie is quite gullible and opens her mouth to say “What?” Only to have it stuffed full of snow. “Ptew! Hey yer can’t do that!” Rawnie rolls around some more quite feisty with the other little girl picking up clumps of snow and squishing them into Aisling’s face. She seems to have lost her hat and scarf in the tussle.

Clavicle Gravely is thwumped and he dramatically hops backwards like a bad western silent film and flops back first in the snow. “Argh!” He lays, splayed out byt the massive force of the…err…snow.

Set to her mission, Kalynn‘s eyebrows furrow as she concentrates on making an extra big snowball. “Okay Kelly, watch this!” she shouts as she hurls her new charge in Rawnie’s direction. “Consider the deal re-payed!” yells Kalynn with a laugh, watching to see if her snowball hits. If it doesn’t, Kalynn plans on running, lest Kelly tackles her again in exchange for missing her target.

Seeing as Kelly is rather literally up a tree, flinging handfuls of snow (not even properly formed snowballs, just handfuls of snow) at those on the ground – mostly Clavicle, all told, though with the occasional handful flung towards Briony or Rawnie, it is unlikely that she will care terribly much about whether Kalynn comes through. Of course, playing sniper up in the tree only lasts so long, especially for a cold, wet, uncoordinated Pantall… who falls out of the tree with a yelp.

Squealing with the surprise of the impact, Aisling rolls over, at looks at Rawnie, having stopped wrestling with her. “Do you think we should get Kalynn for that?” she asks the other first year, already starting on a stockpile of snowballs.

Rawnie Weller giggles and rolls onto her back and sits up. “Yeah! Lets geter!” Rawnie dives behind the shrub and quickly begins lobbing snowballs at Kalynn!

Aisling O‘Cormac happily joins Rawnie, throwing masses of snowballs at Kalynn. “AHA!” she yells, “Got you!”

“Aah! Ahhhh ahhh!!” yells Kalynn between laughing fits and getting pelted continuously by wet snowballs. “Help meee!” Kalynn pleas as she heads in the direction of the castle. “I’m soaked!” she informs Briony as she passes by her. Kalynn‘s hair is, indeed, soaked and matted, showing no signs of having been nicely braided just hours before. “I’m going to go dry off! Get Rawnie for me!” is Kalynn‘s last request as she flees towards the warmth of her house’s common room.

Clavicle Gravely ‘s head pops up and he laughs. he hops up and tries to return the dive tackle Kelly pulled on Kalynn! Except. He flies right over her and faceplants into the snow. Ooooof… He actually leaves an impact trench in the snow. “Ow.”

Running away towards the castle, Aisling laughs uproariously, happy with the outcome of her time spent outside today. Throwing a last snowball in the vague direction of Kelly, she runs inside the big castle doors, to sanctuary.

“Oy, wait for me, Kalynn!” Briony calls, getting hit with a few of the last snowballs as she attempts to escape. “We can try our braids again now that our hair is all wet,” the girl suggest with a boisterous laugh. The two of them soon are on their way inside, towards warmth and security away from the cold, cold snow. “That was fun!” echoes through the halls as Briony clomps through them rather loudly.

Rawnie Weller hurrys to pick up her hat and scarf before she can get pelted anymore. She is positivley soaked to the bone as she runs inside giggleing happily.

Even though she just fell out of a tree, even though people are throwing balls of wet, cold stuff at her, even though she’s inappropriately dressed for the weather and second years are trying to tackle her, Kelly can’t seem to do anything except lie in the snow laughing, flat on her back, waiting for her breath to come back – not likely to happen while she’s laughing so much – before she stands and gives Clavicle what for. Or perhaps goes inside. Or whatever she was planning to do. Instead, she just laughs hysterically, if breathlessly, and waits for something else to happen.

Clavicle Gravely is laying there laughing as well. He finally sits up. “Well then, I don’t think that was wholly called for.”

“What?” Kelly asks when she can finally stop herself from giggling insanely, though she remains lying on the ground with the snow soaking through her robes. One day, she will get the energy to move, but that day is not today. Or, at least, not this minute. “YOU tried to tackle ME, right after I fell out of a TREE.” Try as she might, she can’t sound too pompous while she’s lying breathlessly in the snow trying not to giggle, even when she is talking to a second year student she deems herself automatically better than.

Landon is totally and utterly excited! He’s buzzing and jumping about and grinning from ear to hear. Of course, the crowd can’t tell because Landon looks a neutral as ever on the outside. His broom is grasped firmly in his hand and he is holding his beater’s bat between his arm and his side. He uses the free hand to wave at the audience in no particular rhythm. A few waves here, a finger-wiggle there, and arm flap after he gets a little further towards the center. When he reaches his spot, he stops and just stands like a Landon-Statue.

Gabriel is psyched. Holding his broom well off the ground as he makes his way onto the pitch with his team, Gabriel looks around, reminding himself to take cleansing deep breaths. “We’ll win this,” he says aloud, switching his broom from his left hand to his right. Looking to Keelan as she speaks, Gabriel gulps a little, glancing at Briony.

Briony, who has all week been practically shivering with excitement, looks a bit green in the face now as she strides onto the familiar pitch. An unfamiliar sight greets her as she makes her way out behind Gabriel. There are far more people here than she ever remembered seeing at a match, all with their eyes down on the pitch as the teams collect and get situated. Oh, Briony is very nervous now and she hardly hears what Keelan says; she is far too distracted by all the commotion.

It is a clear day, free of rain, and Noémie smiles a bit as she pauses at the edge of the pitch. The fifth year has a determined smile on her face as she makes her way to the center of the pitch, holding on to her broom and comes to a stop near where Keelan is. “Yes, Professor,” she responds, as she always does and puts her hand out to Marie-Anna. The Ravenclaw’s hair is skillfully pulled back for once, rather than flying all over the place in a mess of wavy light brown, for better sight of the snitch.

Clavicle Gravely comes striding out carrying his Sandsweeper 25. The Egyptian broom has sleek lines. He waves to the Ravenclaw stands and yells “AUK AUK!”

Keelan Walsh is already in the center of the pitch, perched atop the box that holds the Quidditch balls. Her broom is nearby, waiting for it’s use. Today, her robes are a somber shade of deep red. The whistle hanging about her neck shines in the autumn sun, and she plays with it idly, waiting for the children to arrive. When they do, she stands up, shoulders straight, and says, “Captains? Shake hands, nice and sportsmanship-like, now.” with a grim smile.

Broom in hand Marie-Anna stands in suitable position that she may shake the opposing captains hand. Upon the professors call the Gryffindor beater shakes Noémie’s proferred hand, offering the Ravenclaw captain a polite smile.

Van stalks behind the rest of her team, gripping tightly to her broom. The Seventh year isn’t too excited, but a faint smile is still plastered across her lips as she gazes out into the stands. She breathes out a little laugh at Clavicle, shaking her head a little but in no belittling way.

Tegan makes her way onto the pitch, a foul look on her face. The fourth-year beater grips her bat in one hand and her broom in the other and stops far to Noémie’s left, looking the Gryffindor beaters up and down, sizing them up before the start of the match. Tegan is now seasoned to the matches, and she has to suppress the urge to laugh as she looks at the faces of some of the newer players, who look rather nervous. She says nothing, and no sounds emit from her while she stands there, waiting the beginning whistle, just smirking.

Andy Carver‘s heart pounds with excitement as he enters the pitch with his team. He has clenched his right hand around his broom to minimise the trembling. He takes a few deep breaths, lines up near Gabriel and nods towards him slightly, not being able to force himself to a smile.

Josh MacLean is pale beneath his freckles, his eyes wide and his newly-developed adam’s apple bobbing as he swallows nervously. He raises a hand to his mouth to chew on a fingernail, but puts it back down at his side after accidentally tasting the leather of his gloves, proceeding to stand somewhat near Landon, and waits, his knuckles white with his hand clenched tightly around his broom.

David walks in line with the other players of his team, holding his Moonsweeper over his left shoulder. He punches his right fist in the air, saluting the Ravenclaws who were cheering on the team from their bleachers. It is a fine day for flying, and David is feeling exceptionally confident, owing to the inordinate amount of training the team captain arranged for the whole team… he certainly feels less frightened than on his first match last year.

Quidditch! Hooray! Tybalt‘s favourite sport on the planet. He lives for it, he’d die for it, and it is the best opportunity in the world to show off! He slicks his hair back with a graceful movement of his hand and pulls on the bands of his fingerless gloves a few times – just for how of course, they’re already firmly attached to his hands. Once he’s done with that move he waves towards a group of girls that are frantically waving their red and gold banners at him in an attempt to get his attention. He winks in their direction and they all shriek with giggles and start talking excitedly amongst themselves. Now, off towards the center of the pitch! After a slinking along in a graceful fashion, Tybalt reaches the seeker’s spot and stands tall and proud, waving like he’s the one who invented Quidditch, or something.

Clavicle says, “Auk! Auk!” he grins and trots over to David with a laugh. “Come on David…Just one Auk, for the team!” He grins and prepares to mount his broom when signaled to.”

Bailey Williams follows David, no trace of fear or excitement on his face whatsoever. He tries to concentrate on the match, remembering the moves drilled in him after those numerous practices. He holds his broom in his right hand, waiting for the order to mount it and dart into the sky.

Riley Markham cant’t help but feel somewhat nervous as he makes his way on to the pitch, broom slung across his shoulders like a clothes rod, as if he were carrying pales of water. A feigned attempt at looking cassual, almost as if he hoped he might somehow fool himself. His aim had gotten better in practice, but there was still a lot of work to be done. And here of all places, with his Gran wave down at him from the faculty stands, he could almost feel his heart beating somewhere in the vacinity of his throat. Purposely not turning his gaze up to respond to her, pretending interest in the color of the grass.

Keelan Walsh spends the hand shaking time undoing the latches on the trunk. Almost as if sentient and able to understand what was going on, the Bludgers begin to shake the box from the first releasing ‘click’. However, when it’s opened, they just struggle against their bonds. Keelan pushes a button which reveals the Snitch. Taking it gingerly from it’s holder, the Professor turned Referee allows the tiny golden ball to unfurl it’s wings and bat them a few times before letting it zoom away. Now, the Quaffle is collected, and Keelan turns back to the teams. “Everyone ready?” She doesn’t let it go yet, “Let’s play a fair game, I don’t feel like giving a lot of penalty shots today.” This is said seriously, and she raises the whistle to her lips with her free hands. Giving the Quaffle a toss rather impressively high, she blows the whistle, signaling the beginning of the match.

Mounting his broom, Gabriel resolves to shake of his nervous feeling as he prepares to kick off the ground, trying to have faith in his game skills. He and Briony had practiced a lot, and he needed it to pay off. At Keelan’s whistle, Gabriel jumps a bit before lifting off in the direction of the Quaffle.

Eh, what the heck? She’s not going to be here much longer so who cares? She over beside Clavicle and Dave, waving her fists in the air towards their audience, “AUK! AUK!” She screams, giggling. Van claps, turning and grinning to her teammates before swooping over to her position.

Switching from anxiety to alertness in a split-second Andy Carver mounts his broom as the referee grabs the whistle and pushes off the ground with all his force, even losing the balance a bit and nervously adjusting his seat again. He heads for the quaffle. Maybe he would be able to grab it before Gabriel. Every second counts now.

In one move, Landon jumps onto his broom and pulls his bat from under his arm, ready for use. Then, with a quick move of his leg, Landon shoots straight up into the air, and slightly off to the side so that the Chasers can have control of the field and he won’t be in the way. Now, to wait until the bludger are released so he can make sure they don’t hit anyone on his team.

As soon as she hears the whistle, Noémie is on her broom and she flies high above the pitch, above the hoops. The Ravenclaw sees the golden snitch released and watches as it quickly is gone from her sight. Well, it’s still early in the game, and Noémie is not concerned about missing it this time. She stays perched on her broom, staying very high above the action of the game, hoping to quickly spot the snitch, rather than have the game go on for days.

“Don’t clobber the ball, control your swings, follow through with the connection,” Riley murmurs, over and over again under his breath as the call to mount brooms is given. Athletism and mindless bravado his specialty, Riley hardly thinks at all as he pulls down on the handle of his broom from his shoulder, flipping it in to place. Mounting it and kicking off from the ground in one smooth motion. Impressive for a second year, even though he nearly dropped the broom and fell off the other side of the broom. Recklessness to match his brash flying style. Soaring up high, he flips his bat in to his scarred hand with a flick of his wrist. Still pointedly avoiding looking the faculty stands as he glances around the pitch at his teammates and enemies, looking for a leather-wrapped cannon ball.

Marie-Anna Greyton is back in the appropriate position for her to start on the ground from, bat under one arm as she mounts her broom. It’s not long after that she launches into the air, her bat in hand. She’s a little to the side, much like Landon is.

David mounts his broom and, with a firm kick on the ground, takes off in the air, taking his position. Once floating in the air, waiting for the whistle to be blowed, he looks at this teammates, grinning at them. “Give’em hell, Riley!” he shouts, and mutters under his breath: “and don’t send the Bludgers to me, please.” David was impressed by Riley’s skills on the broom, and never forgot that it was thanks to him, inderectly, that he got on the team. However, Riley’s aim was sometimes very random and downright dangerous…

“Remember, Riley! AIM!” Tegan calls as she, too, gets onto her broom and kicks off the ground, quickly ascending with her bat gripped tightly in her hand. She may not have as much power as her fellow beater does, but at least she can aim. Tegan‘s smirk is gone from her face now that the game is in session, and she gives a passing bludger a hard WHACK!, aiming it generally in the direction of the Gryffindor seeker, in hopes of quickly giving Ravenclaw an advantage.

Josh MacLean takes a deep breath as he mounts his broom, flying at a steep angle upward before levelling out to head towards the opposite end of the field, but not too far from the Quaffle, trying to keep himself open for passing and mostly paying attention to the other Chasers.

As the whistle is blown Tybalt makes a big show of turning on his `Seeking Sense’ – as he calls it – as he hops onto his broom and soars as high up as he can be while still visible to the female members of the audience. He flips his hair out of his eyes and scans the skies for that elusive, golden ball. He needs to catch it and he looks like he won’t quit until he has it.

Keelan Walsh gives the teams a moment of playing before stepping back from the box and undoing the bludger restraints with a charm. Mostly because she can and partially because the stupid balls are dangerous. Having unleashed them on people ranging from 12 to 17 (or possibly 18) who are typically assumed to be at least partially under her care, the Herbology Professor mounts her own broom, but does not rise as high as the players, as of yet.

Clavicle Gravely mounts the”Auk Auk!” he hops on his broom and the sandsweeper and zooms up. He heads for the quaffle as well, trying to use the foreign brooms speed to go for the falling quaffle. He pours on the speed to try to cut through the crowd. For now he trusts Riley to keep the bludgers off.

Briony Wexler flies up towards the hoops, looking rather unsteady as she does so. Chances are high that the second-year will lose her breakfast before the match is over. “Whoo, Gryffindor!” she calls as she takes her place in front of the three high hoops. Is it possible that they’re higher up? Briony doesn’t know. The girl tries to watch as there are now twice as many people on the pitch as she is used to, more things flying around to keep her eyes on. Just watch for the red one, Bri, that’s the ticket. Keep your eyes on the prize. Echoes of Gabriel’s recent pep talks fly through her mind.

Still concentrating on the match, Bailey follows his fellow Chasers and takes his position, on the right wing of the field. He keeps his eyes fixed on the box where the Quaffle was stored, waiting for it to be released. Bailey doesn’t partake much in the cheering, and totally ignores the comments that the other players of his team were exchanging between them as a way to release the tension. His flying is the only thing which matters to him now. As the Quaffle is released, he pushes his broom forward and flies directly towards it.

Worry rapidly becomes frustration as Riley flashes a slightly uncomfortable look toward David, then an annoyed one toward Tegan. “Yeah, alright, already!” Gritting his teeth a bit, Riley bucks his broom, spotting the second down low. Twisting in to a barrel-roll dive that is perhaps even more reckless and showy than normal (as if to show that he did have SOME talent), thesound of Riley‘s own bat connects with the ball almost in tandem with Tegan’s own CRACK. Pivotting his broom in a smooth turn, he does as instructed, and the bludger whistles off fast in the general direction of Briony. The first person he’d seen after coming out of the one-eighty turn. “Ha!”

Being totally surprised Andy finds himself having plucked the quaffle out of the air just in time. He hectically turns his head into all directions, sees Josh first and tries to pass the red ball to him. Giving the toss way too much of speed.

“What? I’m on your team!” Tegan calls, scoffing a bit. Really, now, one would think he’d be grateful for the advice she was offering. No matter, Tegan watches as Riley shows off a bit. “Oh, gimme a break, Riley!” she calls, rolling her eyes again at her teammate. She is forced to duck, however, as his bludger comes directly at her head. “Aim at THEM! Not ME!” Tegan does not seem very pleased, does she?

Marie-Anna Greyton grins as she watches the release of the bludgers. “Let the games begin,” she states with a bit of a cackle before swings her arm a bit, warming it up a little for those encounters she’s certain to have with those nasty bludger. As she see’s the bludger go flying towards Briony, Marie offers a shout. “Bri! Heads up!” is given, as she herself races towards the keeper intent on getting between the bludger and the Gryffindor keeper.

As Noémie sees Tybalt showing off for the girlies in the stands, she rolls her eyes. Go right ahead and do that, she decides as she flies in a figure eight over the pitch, watching around carefully. Noémie is alert, determined not to watch the action in the game, rather, to look for that bit of precious gold that will name her team winner.

David briefly turns his head towards RIley and Tegan, hearing tiny bits of their argument carried to him by the wind. He quickly turns his head back to the Quaffle, which Andy has just thrown to Josh. David decides to try and steal it from the Gryffindor player, and flies in his general direction.

Watching the players, Landon flies the length of the field as he waits for one of his players to be in danger. He’s the defensive beater, at the moment, and he doesn’t feel like chasing down a bludger so he can whack it at another player, just yet. Of course, once he has a bludger he will whack it at a player on the opposite team.

The Ravenclaw keeper wets her lips, adamantly watching the game as it continues on, leaning here and there as Van does her best to predict when she’d best actually do her part.

“Josh!” Gabriel yells upon seeing Andy’s pass to the boy. “I’m open!” he adds, shooting forward towards the Ravenclaw goals, hoping to get into a better position to be passed to. Gabe is unaware of whether or not Josh actually caught the Quaffle, or if it was intercepted.

Clavicle Gravely turns to try to intercept the quaffle as it was speedily tossed. He doesn’t have time toi catch it. So instead he tries a quick 180 to try to tail bat it toward David.

Watching David going for the Quaffle, Bailey decides to play a preventive game and manoeuvers such as to place himself between Gabriel and Josh, should David fail to catch the Quaffle and the Gryffindor try to shoot the Quaffle at Gabriel. Besides, covering the Keeper is never a bad idea.

Briony shrieks a bit and flies downward as she sees the ominous black orb flying towards her at a rather fast pace. No, Briony would rather abandon her goals than get hit straight-on by a bludger. She is now about halfway down the tall hoops, rather out of the way of where she ought to be in order to block shots, but — but the bludger! Briony is not going to head back up until the object has been deflected.

Luckily for him, Josh is better at catching and throwing than he is at flying, and was paying attention, so although the quaffle is flying really fast, he sticks out an arm in time and with a sound thwack, it connects with his arm and is held close to him, his arm curled around it, as he zooms further towards the Ravenclaw goals when he notices David and Gabriel almost simultaneously. With a nervous glance from one to the other, he clamps his teeth down on his bottom lip and circles a little to the left to see if he can’t get a clearer shot to Gabriel, and attempts to chuck the ball with enough speed to get it safely to his teammate.

Marie-Anna Greyton takes a quick whack at the bludger, the noise resounding as bat meets ball, and deflects it away from Briony, who gets a crooked grin. The bludger, meanwhile, was deflected in the opposite direction from which it was going, perhaps far and fast enough to get to Van.

Tegan is in the middle of the pitch and seeing Marie-Anna alter the bludger’s trajectory, she flies as quickly as her broom will take her to stop in front of Van. It is a mere moment before the bludger has connected with her bat again, and it spirals towards the clump of both team’s chasers who seem to be still jockeying for posession of the quaffle. “Riley! Get the other bludger!” she calls, watching as one flies his direction.

As Andy speculates that his pass has not been caught by Josh, he lets his broom fall back a bit out of the action and pushes it up afterwards to get a better view on the events on the field, not flying out of his fellow chasers passing range. And then he sees the quaffle swooshing through the air again as Josh passed it. Andy shoots forward on his way to place himself in front of the Ravenclaw hoops.

Eek. There’s a bludger flying right towards him. Stupid things have minds of their own. He winds up and whacks it across the stadium and away from himself. And, now it looks to be heading straight for Van! Good aim, Landon! Good thing he practiced with targets at the last practice!

Marie-Anna Greyton flies off towards the bludger that’s flying towards the clump of chasers. “Landon, stop Riley, get that bludger!” is shouted by the elder beater, though her call is unnecessary as, evidently, Landon’s already on it. Of course, now the Gryffindor eyes the bludger, trying to assess if one of her own chasers will get hit, or if it’ll hit a Ravenclaw chaser. Then again, it may not hit anyone. Either way, she doesn’t seem intent on stopping the bludger if it’s going to get a Ravenclaw.

Riley Markham seems fairly pleased with himself there for a moment, as he as the bludhger sails past Tegan toward it’s original target. A faint smirk touching his lips. “Past you! Jus’ followin’ your advice, eh? Aimin’!” It wasn’t his fault Tegan’d got in the way, and though he usually got on with him at least amiably, the nervousness he felt being on the pitch for the first time and the aggrivation of being told the same thing day-in, day-out during daily practices with both the varsity and junior squads — it had ground down on his patience. Add to that the undue expectations he felt with his Gran watching.. His nerves were fairly shot, she he had reverted to his more base self-defense mechanism. Show-boating and gloating. Gloating soon to become brooding. “Hah!” He shouts again, before blinking. Having, briefly, taken his mind out of the game to admire his own handywork. Turning, he manages to get his bat up just in time to deflect the bludger half-away (in the direction of Tegan herself, which is doubtful to improve her mood or disposition toward the boy). The impact catches Riley off balance, though, knocking him in almost exaggerated slowness off the edge of his broom after flailing hims arms in circles not unlike a duck. He does, however, manage to save himself, reaching up to grab the handle of his broom, leaving him dangling there for a moment with a slightly dumbfounded expression.

“Catch it, Bailey!” shouts David, as Josh throws the ball towards the Ravenclaw balls. David is too far away to attempt a catch, and besides, it would be better for him to be slightly nearer of the middle of the pitch so that if Bailey catches the ball, he could pass it to David afterwards.

Looking backwards to check for a pass in his direction, Gabriel‘s gaze first falls onto Briony– what was she doing!? “Gah!” is Gabriel‘s outburst, but he then notices Josh’s strong pass to him and turns his broom around, extending one hand towards the ball.

Tegan hasn’t moved since Marie-Anna’s bludger shot came straight for her team’s keeper. Rearing her arm back, the beater chucks the bludger towards the group of chasers once again, hoping that it’ll come into contact with someone from the other team rather than her own. Of course, as they’re all in such close proximity, it makes it difficult for her to judge where it will go or who it will hit.

Clavicle Gravely turns seeing Riley having trouble. He flies fast and herd under the boy ready to pull a catch if he needs catching. “Riley! Are you alright?” he calls out, then sees the boy catch himself and he gives him a thumbles up. “Auk Auk!” He turns and zips back after the quaffle.

Keelan Walsh is being a nicely unbiased ref(really!) and just sort of slowly circling the pitch at a level where she can see what is going on without getting involved unless she needs to be. For a worried moment she hovers, watching Riley. Under her breath a muttered, “Ruddy Ravenclaw, don’t get yourself killed.” She resumes her slow circling, patiently waiting.

Having noticed the ball being thrown at Gabriel probably second before he did, Bailey pushes his broom towards the Quaffle and intercepts it deftly. He then dives a little, attempting to get some speed so as to distance Josh and get to the middle of the pitch, hoping that he would be able to send the Quaffle to another chaser then.

Now that she is out of peril, Briony flies back up to hover about three feet in front of the hoops. As the other team gains control of the ball, her arms go up in a defensive position, one that she has been taught through copious practicing. The girl still looks a bit green in the face, but is noticably shaking less as she watches the action. Her exhileration is beginning to overcome her nervousness.

Marie-Anna Greyton hovers close enough to get in the way of a bludger if it appears to be out to hit a Gryffindor, but she makes no move to try to stop them if they’re out to hit a RAvenclaw.

“N-noooo!” Gabriel cries as the Quaffle is intercepted and whisked away from him. “Oh no you don’t!” he yells, shooting after Bailey, hoping to catch up with him and regain possession of the Quaffle for Gryffindor.

His cheeks turning crimson, Riley pulls himself back on to his broom with no small effort — immediately glad that he’d done so well with chin-ups in muggle grade school. “Yeah, yeah, dandy, Clavy,” he calls out, once he’s he’s secured himself back on to his broom, and pulled his back back in to his hands. The confidence and bravado of his anger suddenly gone, he pushes forward.. Allowing himself enough time to flash a half-dark, half-embaressed sort of look at Professor Walsh, Riley returns himself to the game. His movements nowhere near as quick or sure, but much more controlled.

“Ugh, Riley!” Tegan shouts as she gets knicked in the hand by the bludger before she manages to whack it towards Gabriel. She grabs onto the hand that got hit by the black sphere and frowns hard at her teammate. “Haven’t you been listening at all?” she snaps at him irritably, clutching her hand for the pain in it. Deciding that she would get it looked at later, the beater, rears her bat back up, waiting to see where the bludgers end up next.

Curse it! They were beaten away! Landon makes a dive and manages to hit the bludger hit by Tegan. He aimed it straight towards Noémie and it sails quickly through the air, displaying the force it was hit with. Landon supposes he probably should have waited until someone on his team was in immediate danger, but that could take too long. It was much more likely to hit a Ravenclaw if it was aimed at one.

Clavicle Gravely is lagging behind the quaffle chase, So he’s actually in good position as he never got so far down the pitch to chase the quaffle, going after Riley. He zips towards the Gryffindor hoops. “I’m open!”

Van Douglass is more nervous about Gabe and Josh then anyone else, throwing up an arm to attempt and block the approaching bludger rather then abandon her post just as her teammate moves in front of her. Not noticing the other one coming from Landon, the girl pushes out from behind Tegan to once again have a view of the field. When she does notice it, she swoops back behind Tegan until the girl beats it away, at which time she comes back out. Nope. She wasn’t as cowardly as the other keeper at all.

Josh MacLean yells, “No!” at the interception, and zooms closer towards Gabriel, trying to stay in an easy throwing distance to his fellow chaser, but not actively going back for the quaffle himself, until Clavicle shouts out from near the Gryffindor hoops and Josh lowers himself to his broom to get more speed as he flies towards the path the ball will probably take if thrown to Clavicle.

“Argh!” Andy ‘articulates’ under his breath as the pass is intercepted. He whirls round to try to get the quaffle back as he hears – and a split second later sees – a bludger fizzing behind him. Maybe he could redirect it to a Ravenclaw. Andy races down towards David and crosses his way, touching the tip of the Ravenclaw’s broom slightly. He looks back to see if it was a successful attempt, still rushing across the field.

Riley Markham shifts his gaze toward Landon, then the bludger than he struck. Tegan’s shout ringing in his ears, frustration and embaressment gripping him at nearly equal measure. Darting upward, he moves in a quick attemp to put himself between the bludger and Noémie, to perhaps reclaim some of his honor. Bat ready to knock the cannonball back at Landon with as much force as it was struck. Calm the bloody hell down, Riley.. you can do this..

Noémie is not ignoring the action of the game so much as to miss that there is a bludger flying in her direction. She quickly flies away from where the bludger is, but had not spotted it fast enough to avoid it altogether. The bludger knicks the front of her broom, tacking a good six inches off of the tip of it. “You’ll pay for that!” She hollers as she rocks back and forth unsteadily on her broom. The usually graceful Noémie looks decidedly displeased as she manages to move herself out of the bludger’s return trajectory.

“Argh!” yells David, nearly hit by the second-year Gryffindor. “That’s a foul!” he yells, and as a result looses sight of the Quaffle for a split second. Upset by the near miss, he only realizes a couple of seconds later that the Quaffle is still in Bailey’s hands… but for how long? He flies towards the Gryffindor goals, trying to catch up with the other Gryffindors who were beginning to build a defensive wall.

A day late and a galleon short, as they say. Riley‘s attempt to intercept hadn’t been quick enough, and the bludger is missed by centimeters off the end of his bat. This was going quite splendidly for him, wasn’t it. As the end of Noémie’s broom is clipped, Riley winces violently, flashing her an appologetic “I did the best I could” sort of look, before swinging back for the bludger’s return path. The same mantra he’d been repeating when the took off play in his head, he flashes Landon a somewhat harsh look before lifting his bat and swinging again. The crack errupting from his bat colliding with the ball something like thunder. Maybe the destruction of part of his Captain’s broom helped bring focus, but his aim is true, sailing quick and fast at Landon. He can do it.

Keelan Walsh is alert and not wondering if she will have to start muttering about Astra needing potions ingredients, honestly. Almost missing the collision, it isn’t until David yells foul that she realizes he’s right. Her faces falls a little as she blows her whistle and announces, “Foul! Penalty shot to Ravenclaw!” A small frown, and she waits for the attempt to be made. Sigh.

Oh no, a penalty shot! Briony has not had much practice at all with this, and her eyes are wide as Keelan announces this. The girl grips her broom rather more tightly than she needs to, her knuckles turning white. Okay, Briony, time to show your skill, your merit. Aw, hell, just try to block the shot. She tries to think encouraging shots, though she has a hard time of it, knowing that two of the keepers on Ravenclaw aren’t first years at quidditch as she is.

Clavicle Gravely turns and wanders over to the side he’s supposed to stay on while a penalty shot is being finalized. he hovers a bit and grins “AUK AUK!!!!”

What? A foul? That would simplify things for David. The Ravenclaw chaser, still holding the Quaffle, now has a free way towards the penalty line. Once he reaches the line, hovering for a while to decide to which hoop he’ll throw the ball, he finally turns his broom to the right, feinting a shoot to the right hoop, but in reality throwing it to the left hoop.

Yes, the second year has seen shots like this before, but in her nervous distraction, she mistakenly begins to dive to her right, where David has first begun to shoot before realizing that the red orb is heading the other direction. Quickly pulling on the end of her broom to attempt the block for the other hoop, she nearly falls off of the flying mechanism just as the quaffle flies through the hoop with a loud CLANG! Briony‘s face falls and reddens as she rights herself on the broom and centers herself again. No, this was not a good start.

Keelan Walsh watches Briony miss with a wince, and the announcer gives a booming “Point to Ravenclaw!” but she flies in to collect the Quaffle and resume play. With another blow of the whistle, she does just that, and quickly removes herself from the thick of things while she’s at it. A sympathic glance to the Gryffindor Keeper is all she spares.

A loud groan escapes Riley as the foul is called, of course momentarily pausing the bludgers, including the one he’d clobbered at Landon. The one good hit he’d had, the one that was bound to actually have a positive effect. The air seems to slip from him and his shoulders slump. And he makes the horrendous mistake of looking back toward the faculty stands, as David shoots. Catching the surpremely dissapointed gaze of his grandmother from the corner of his eye. Yeah, that about did it. At the moment, there was nothing more he wanted than to land, find some great rock and crawl under it to die. The fight gone from him almost totally.

Clavicle says, “AUK AUK!!!” the chaser yells as he does a 720 on the broom. He then watches to see who will take possession of the quaffle.”

Giving a cheer as Bailey makes the score, Tegan starts flying a bit as the play resumes again as normal. Well, it was something, and it put them ahead, even if it was Gryffindor’s own fault that Ravenclaw even had the penalty shot. Spying a bludger heading down towards her end of the pitch, Tegan flies quickly towards the black object and gives it a hearty WHACK! She sends it towards the captain of Gryffindor team, trying a different tack rather than attacking the chasers or keeper.

Josh MacLean curses under his breath as the penalty is called, and scowls and repeats himself as Briony misses the shot, but once the whistle blows, he is all business once again, or even moreso now that they’re down a point and Josh is a bit angry. Ascending and zooming towards the quaffle, he grabs it, slowing down to glance around and try to spot one of the other chasers.

“It’s okay, Bri!” Gabriel shouts from across the field, though he doubts she could possibly hear him across that distance and amid all the noise. Looking the other way to Josh, Gabe sees his teammate in possession of the quaffle and flies up towards the Ravenclaw goals again. “Josh!” he calls again as he passes by.

Marie-Anna Greyton cringes slightly as she makes note of the score, a shake of her head is given before she spots the incoming bludger and aims to take a whack at it. Unfortunatetly for Marie, two things went wrong with this intent, the first one being, she was too close to the bludger to hit it properly, therefore resulting in it hitting her shoulder. The second thing, the black orb was hit too hard and was going too fast for Marie to maintain her balance, so not only did it hit her shoulder, and, quite possibly, break it, it also knocked her off her broom to the ground below. Upon landing the captain wrinkles her nose. “That’s gonna hurt in the morning,” is muttered as she stands to make her way off the pitch.

“Yeah! That’s for you Gryffindors!” cheers David, as Bailey manages to score a goal. When the Quaffle is put into play once again, David concentrates and turns his broom towards Gabriel. David had difficulties to steal a Quaffle from someone, but covering another player is easier. He hopes to catch the Quaffle as it is thrown towards him, or at least turn Gabriel into a tactically useless player for Gryffindor.

Sharp eyes spy the bludger heading straight for him. Yeegads! Luckily it pauses at the penalty shot is taken, but once play resumes it hurtles straight for him. Without missing a beat Landon lifts his bat and stops the bludger and reverses it’s flight. Of course, the force of the stop and hit combined chipped a hunk out of the top of his bat, but Landon doesn’t seem to be worried about it. He’s studying the bludger closely to make sure it takes out Noémie just as it has been aimed to do. He is forced to tear his eyes away, though, as Marie-Anna takes a hit. The Gryffindor boy is now the team’s only beater, and that could be a problem.

Well, Tegan‘s shot was successful, much to her own surprise, and the bludger in true form comes flying back in her direction. As it approaches she rears back and chucks it directly towards Josh, who seems to be the most agressive Gryffindor chaser at the moment. The girl rotates her shoulder a bit as she watches to see whether the bludger indeed goes where she indended for it to go or whether she ought to start flying to intercept it again.

Bailey is still lagging behind the zone of interest, due to the fact that he was the one who shot the penalty and thus has to cover the distance between him and the middle of the pitch where the Quaffle is. He pushes his broom forward, trying to get some speed, and hoping that nobody would have the bad idea to send a Bludger against him.

Clavicle Gravely pours on the sandsweepers speed to try to go help cover the hoops and try to snag the quaffle. He pours on too much speed and flies dangerously close to the hoops. It takes him a moment to recover and he looks for the quaffle.

Riley Markham had remained fairly near Noémie while the penalty shot had been made, so it doesn’t take much for him to place himself between it and the Ravenclaw seeker. He is, after all, quite quick. And he brings up his broom and deflects the bludger back with an annoyed expression. His hit is strong, even though he doesn’t place all his weight in to it. The aim is poor, however, flying wide of Landon by several feet, sailing instead toward the Gryffindor seeker.

Andy hangs his head as the penalty has been called and sweep aside as it is performed. Not watching the first Ravenclaw goal he feels like having a big chunk of stone in his stomache. But as the game action sets in again, Andy sees Josh carrying the quaffle and tries to fly ahead of him to be the preferred receiver. “Josh!” Andy calls.

Josh MacLean doesn’t notice the captain go down, being preoccupied with having the quaffle in hand. He chews on his bottom lip, Gabriel is covered, where the heck is Andy? His searching is interrupted, though, by the glimpse of something black, metal, and moving very fast in his peripheral vision, too fast… Josh turns slightly, unable to get out of the path of the bludger, and is hit in the stomach, at which point he drops the ball, doubling over in pain and wobbling precariously on his broom as he floats towards the ground.

Tybalt Holmes flips his hair back and winks at his girls as he soars around the stadium for all to see. So, of course he doesn’t see the bludger that is heading straight for him! It connects with his shoulder and sends him spinning around in circles so fast that he is nothing more than a red and gold blur for a few seconds. Several groups of girls sprinkled throughout the audience scream in horror as their pretty boy is shot down. He floats down towards the ground for a bit before he regains his head a bit. “YEEGADS, LANDON!” He shouts across the pitch and he grabs his shoulder with one hand and rests his forehead against the handle of his broom. But, after a few moments he lifts his head and throws both of his arms up into the air (One of the making a sickening POP as it is raised) and he shouts, “But I’m OK!” and his girls shriek and clap excitedly. Now, he needs to go back to finding the snitch. That bludger is now flying off towards Clavicle and it doesn’t appear as though it’ll bother him twice in a row.

“Good one, Riley!” Noémie calls encouragingly to the beater with a wave. She has managed to pick off the sharpest bits off of the end of her now-shorter broom, and appears to be paying a bit closer attention to the game, knowing that she has not got the same flying advantage as usual. Momentarily, Noémie thinks she spots a glint of gold near to the ground and begins flying downwards, around the center of the pitch so as to avoid her teammates who are attempting to get the quaffle and make shots. She manages to get the feel for the less-than-whole broom as she comes down, but her lack of control at the start had her taking too long to get to the ground and the snitch is now gone again. Grumbling quietly, the fifth-year makes her way back up above the commotion to see if she can’t spot the snitch again.

“Aaah!” shouts Gabriel as he sees Josh hit, bringing both hands to his head, each grasping his hair. Without hesitating anymore, Gabe grips his broomstick and heads downwards, trying to catch the Quaffle before it falls down completely. Gabe comes up with it, hurling it at Andy. “Go!” he shouts after the haphazard throw.

ACK! Landon‘s losing it! He was speeding off towards Tybalt in hopes of grabbing that bludger and he completely forgot about the one headed for Josh. “Sorry!” Of course, it doesn’t sound sincere, or anything. Landon‘s not capable of that. He flies off after the bludger and smacks it with one sharp movement. It hurtles off, after Riley. Take that!

Wow. That’s got to hurt! David watches Josh falling down, but remembering the advice given him during the practices, he turns his eyes back again on the Quaffle. That Gryffindor player who nearly downed him a few minutes ago now has it. David turns his broom in his direction and pushes it into full speed. Ravenclaw has scored a penalty, but David is still decided to show Andy personally what he thought of his flying skills.

Riley Markham arches a brow.. watching the bludger collide with Tybalt with a hint of surprise and growing satisfaction. It didn’t quite ease the void that had grown in the pit of his stomach, but it did make him feel sizably better about things. “Thanks,” he calls back to Noémie, though the cockiness is gone from his tone. You can do this, just stay calm. As Noémie goes in to dive, and knowing that her broom is damaged — Riley makes a last second choice. Considering he just winged the Gryffindor seeker, if Noémie has seen the snitch, she’d become a target. Turnning his broom, he plays point, matching her descent, keeping himself between she and the Gryffindor keeper. As Landon smashes one at him, he lifts his bat to simply bunt the bludger away, pushing it almost gently in the direction of Tegan.. “Madison, heads up, ammo coming!” He shouts. He could salvage this.. he could pull himself out of the grave, or at least out from under the rock.

Keelan Walsh watches the game with a masked but growing concern. The Gryffindor team really seems to be getting smashed up, but so far it hasn’t been in the appeaance of a foul. She is, however, watching the Ravenclaws like a hungry predator, just waiting for one of them to do something that is actually against the rules.

Bargaining for Gabriel saving the quaffle from fumbling again Andy positions himself away from the other Ravenclaw chasers and the bludgers trajectories. As Josh is floating down he notices his captain lying on the floor, either. “Fair enough.” he mutters and sees the flying quaffle from the corner of his eye. And it’s flying perfectly. Andy boosts up his speed at snatches the quaffle out of the air, not thinking about his actions, just letting it flow. Like a falcon bringing its prey to the nest… Andy shakes his head slightly to redeem this flow of his consciousness, though it got him in a quite more cheerful mood. He races towards the opponent’s hoops and clinges to his broomstick, the quaffle under his arm.

Clavicle Gravely wasn’t paying attention to the bludger, but sees it at the last moment! He blinks and takes off, but he’s too close for the bludger to target someone else. “HEEEEELLLLLLLLLLLLLPPPPP!” he cries as he takes off….the bludger mere inches from him. It’s not a rogue bludger, just too close to find a new target. “RIIIIIILLLLEEEYYYYY!!!!!”

His head swimming, Josh reaches the ground near the edge of the pitch, where he staggers off of his broom and promptly vomits on the ground in front of him. His expression pained, he remounts his broom, wincing but determined to stay in the game, and rises slowly back towards where the action is, his eyes wary, watching for bludgers.

Bailey finally comes to the Ravenclaw end of the pitch, and flies towards the hoops, attempting to prevent Andy from having a clear view of the goals. He is essentially acting as a secondary goalie, flying in front of, and a little below, the Ravenclaw keeper.

Having had to entertain herself for the last few minutes, dear Van takes a few moments to realize that Andy is approaching. Hurriedly, she tries to finish up adjusting her pony-tail to prepare to actually do something. She grips her broomstick with one hand, keeping the other open and braced for blocking. Which hoop? Whiiich hoop?

David flies behind Andy, reducing the distance separating him from the Gryffindor, and soon flies to his side. Were they not wearing robes of different colors, one would nearly think they were two players of the same team flying in a perfect formation. David then releases the grip of the broom with his left hand, and extends his arm to try and punch the Quaffle out of Andy’s grasp.

Josh MacLean gains speed, his expression still uncomfortable and his face greyish as he flies over to the Ravenclaw side, about as far from the hoops as Andy but on the opposite side, raising up an arm and calling over “Andy! Right here!” in a somewhat hoarse voice.

Seeing the bludger coming her way, Tegan rears her batting arm back and then brings it forward, hearing the bat connect with the bludger with a mighty WHACK. She watches as she aims the ball directly for Andy, hoping to slow him down to a degree by whacking either him or his broom with the sphere.

Landon spies the bludger right off, and speeds towards it. He’s hot in its trail and ready to beat it away from Andy as soon as he catches up. It’ll take some speed, though. He presses his chest flat against his broom until he can bring himself between the bludger and his teammate. *WHACK* And it soars off in David’s direction.

Riley Markham glances back with Clavicle’s shriek and exhales a rather loud groan. “NECKFRICHZT!” (A gobledegook word whose definition is best left undisclosed) He growls, wheeling about on his broom without thought and kicking up. Laying close to his broom, acting on instinct, he blazes daringly close to Clavicle. Close enough that his robes might brush the fellow second year’s face. And without pondering it, he gives the bludger a might stroke, sending it again, unintentionally, at the Gryffindor seeker.

Spotting the snitch again, this time, near the Hufflepuff bleachers, Noémie starts flying quickly in that direction as fast as her broom will take her. (She’s definitely going to have to replace the broom now, thanks to the Gryffindor beaters.) The fifth year speeds her way across the pitch, eyes focussed only on the little golden ball across the way as she keeps her right hand out in front of her, leaning close down to her broom to increase her speed.

The whole scene seems to center around Andy. Everything seems to slow down and last for minutes instead of seconds. David approaching from the right, Josh waving to his left and the bludger rushing towards him. “It’s hopeless.” Andy thinks. But just at this moment Landon knocks away the bludger and everything seems to be colored brighter than before and seconds become seconds again. He notices David’s hand shooting towards the quaffle and reacts by doing a braking sharply and slinging the red ball into restored Josh’s direction.

Clavicle Gravely grins thankfully “Good one markham.” he flips around and a sparrow bounces off his head. “Oww!” he grins and zips back towards the holder of the quaffle. “Great save Markham!”

WHAM! Again, poor Tybalt Holmes is smacked by a bludger square in the chest. Or, is it the same bludger. Really, he’s not keeping track. He’s winded as he spins around in a red and gold blur. Once he stops, he spies Noémie speeding towards the snitch! He’s got to get it. He tilts his broom in the correct direction and shoots off like a bullet. But despite his determination he’s going down, down, down, down. . .down. He collides with the ground so sharply that his broom is stick at a forty-five degree, angle, and Tybalt does a summersault as he rolls off and faceplants in the dirt. He’s gone black. The Gryffindor seeker is down and out. Tybalt‘s fan girls shriek in horror and all run towards the front of the stands. The reach out, leaning over the railing as though it the just reach far enough they can save him. They’re in hysterics now. Someone is going to pay later. Poor Tybalt.

Josh MacLean‘s eyes widen in alarm as he sees the bludger near Andy, shouting out, “Lookout!” on reflex, but apparently that wasn’t needed, and Josh breathes a sigh of relief in the second between the bludger getting hit away and Andy lobbing the ball at him. He catches it well, and without missing a beat, throws it at the left hoop.

Riley Markham frowns slightly, wheeling about to float momentarily beside Clavicle, watching the bludger blaze in the direction of the Gryffindor Tybalt — and looking somewhat satisfied as it connects with Tybalt’s chest. “Not really, eh? I was aiming fer that prat,” he mutters, motioning with his bat toward Andy, before turning on his broom and moving to place himself physically between Noémie and the Gryffindor seeker. Hopefully causing him to vere off. With Noémie’s broken broom, any number of seconds he could shave off of Tybalt’s flight might help Ravenclaw’s captain the win. And if nothing else, Riley had proved he could fly fast enough to at least put himself in the way of things. He might not be able to hit them, but he could get in the way.

Mere seconds pass between Tybalt’s unfortunate connection with the ground and Noémie‘s connection with the snitch. Her hand closes around the golden object and she lets out an exhuberant ‘Whoop!’ as she flies around the Hufflepuff bleachers, holding the small golden ball up in her right hand triumphantly. Ravenclaw has won the game! Noémie flies down to the pitch, Her broken broom in one hand and the snitch in the other, holding both up in the air. Yes, this was a good start for Ravenclaw’s Quidditch season.

Briony‘s face falls as she sees that the Ravenclaw seeker has managed to get hold of the snitch. Gryffindor has lost their first match of the season. The second year cannot help but feel slightly responsible for the game’s result and flies down to the pitch rather slowly, getting off her broom and wiping her eyes rather dejectedly. So much for lucky robes. She will not cry, she will not cry… except she already is. Rather than wait for the rest of her team, Briony retreats back into the school, intent on hiding out in the lockers for a while until she feels a bit better.

Clavicle Gravely sees her catch it and he hollers “AUK AUK!!!!” and does a circle around Noémie.

Van Douglass rears on her broomstick, using her own weight to swat at the quaffle with her broom’s end. She too doesn’t miss a beat… in hitting it right back in Josh’s direction. Her expression slowly melts away to one of complete horror, that is, until it is taken over by her smile after Noémie catches the snitch. She moves away from the hoops, motioning for Josh to take his best shot if he likes. What with it not mattering.

As Andy has just been about to switch into a celebrating mood, because his action seems to develop into a goal, he just gets his next and last punch into his stomach, because he hears the resounding noise coming from the standings. Even the most of it from the Ravenclaw bleachers. Andy looks up and sees Noémie commemorating the victory. He shrugs, looking to Josh and Gabriel with a miserable face and heading for the ground.

Riley Markham pulls up as Tybalt collides with ground, smirking softly to himself, the soles of his shoes almost brushing the blades of grass. He shifts his gaze toward Noémie as the Ravenclaw crowd roars, and rather carelessly hops off his broom as it still moves, stumbling foward a few steps.

“Hurrah!” Tegan calls exhuberantly, waving her bat around cheerfully as she sees that the team seeker and captain has caught the snitch. She flies down and runs with her broom quickly towards Noémie, enveloping her in an excited hug, screaming rather loudly with excitement. “We win! We win! We win!” Laughter mixes with her screams as she happily clings to the captain.

Narrowly avoiding the Quaffle that locked on him instead of Andy, David lets out a cheer when he understands that the match has finished. Ravenclaw has won! “AUK AUK!” he yells, finally surrendering to the peer pressure set by Clavicle and the others.

“Ooof,” Noémie responds, being enveloped in Tegan’s arms. “Yes! Go Ravenclaw!” the usually reserved fifth year yells, waving around her fist with the snitch caught up in it still. She drops her broom to the ground. She’ll worry about that later, right now — they are the winners! “Good job, team!” Her elation is clear by the wide grin on her face.

Landon pants slightly as he rests his head against the stick of his broom. Sheesh, that game was tiring. This is why Quidditch has two beaters. He needs a nap now. But, of course, he has a terrible feeling that a hoard of angry Tybalt fans are going to want to tar and feather him. Hopefully, though, they’ll choose to fawn over him in the hospital wing, first.

Keelan Walsh gives a whistle to officially end the game, and collects the balls (either by summons or a player simply bringing them) back to their holding places until they’re needed next. “Excellent game,” she murmurs to any who go by, though her tone is considerably sulkier than one would expect from a mature grown woman.

Riley Markham is blissfully ignorant of Tybalt fans, luckily, as he makes his way over to the team, after collecting up his broom. His expression pleased, but somewhat subdued. He has resumed his practice of not looking back toward the faculty bleachers, and seems to be breathing fairly hard, even for the amount of excersize he just recieved.

Josh MacLean glares fiercely at Van, trying to resist the childish urge to stick his tongue out at her. Instead, he scowls unpleasantly, catching the quaffle and holding it far away from his injured abdomen as he descends to the ground and hands it to Professor Walsh. Walking over towards Andy, he groans. “Absolutely d-destroyed,” he comments. “And I think… I p-probably should head to the hospital wing.”

Van Douglass blushes as Josh glares at her, smirking a little as she floats gracefully to the ground to join her team in their celebration, cheering happilly.

Once he’s on the ground, Landon drags his feet over towards the spot where Tybalt is currently flopped and he pokes the boy a few times with the ends of his shoe. “Anyone care to help me cart him off to the Hospital wing, or something?”

“Nice shot, though.” Andy tries to encourage Josh and adds “I hope Nova will be back next time. I’ll come with you to the castle. I really need a shower now.” But as he passes Landon. “Ahm, sure, wait a second.” Andy fastens his belt and puts on of Tybalt’s arms around his neck.

Clavicle says, “Ravenclaw Ravenclaw AUK AUK AUK!!!!” he lands and joims the throng around Noémie”

Melvina Prichard walks out on to the pitch quietly, striding across the small grouping of damaged Gryffindor players, nodding the each in turn as she passes, “Well played,” she murmurs, congenially, to each. Keelan is similarly offered a small, polite nod. But her path across the field is fairly direct. And without wasting a word or movement, she finds Riley’s side and lays a hand down on his shoulder. Not so much lays, grips. Grips down on his shoulder, meaningfully, even though he gaze finds the Ravenclaw captain. “Well played, Miss Ribouet. Nothing less than I’d expect from a Bones descendant.”

Clavicle Gravely Blinks “Bones Descendant?” he steps forward. “Who’s a Bones descendant? The Bones are closely tied to the Gravely’s.. or were around the Goth invasion of Rome.”

Josh MacLean steps alongside Landon. “I’d help, but I, uh, wel, y-y-you two got it. I’ll walk with you, though, we’re all heading to the same place, anyways.” As the headmistress passes, he shrugs, and gives Andy a small smile. “If I’da been paying attention I wouldn’t have g-gotten hit in the stomach.” And he blanches. “Oh, no, I just puked in front of the entire school…”

“Thank you, Headm– what was that?” Noémie faulters over her speech halfway through, glancing to her headmistress and around at her celebrating teammates. Perhaps she had misheard. “What was that you said, Headmistress? I think I missed it.”

With a flip of his wand, Landon levitates the rest of Tybalt. “Come on, then.” He nods and motions his head towards the castle as he makes his way slowly across the field. “It’s fine, Josh. Come on, you’re going to the infirmary, too.” Of course, it is at this time a horde of fan girls decide to flood the field, and crowd around the trio carrying their fallen hero. They have their hoods up and sob on each other as they traipse across the field. Man, you’d think he died or something.

“I am, Mister Gravely,” Melvina replies, glancing to Clavicle with a slightly arched brow. “And Mister Markham, and Miss Robouet, more importantly.” Clavicle’s brush on geneology brings a faintly amused smirk to her lips. “Indeed, most all of the pureblood families are intermingled eventually. The Bones family is one of the oldest. Naturally, the Gravely and the Bones intermingled juncture, though as you said it was a great deal ago, on another branch of the family. Miss Ribouet’s relation is a but more, immediate, let us say.” Shifting her gaze toward Noémie, she grins, almost absently. “Second cousins, I believe. Once removed? I’d have to look at the tree again to be entirely sure. You and my Riley, I mean. Never the less, dear, well played. We must be off, an appointment to make, you see.”

“Oh no.” Andy moans as the horde of girls rushes towards and surrounds them. “Let’s get him there quickly.” he emphasizes and pushes the levitated Tybalt towards the castle. “Move!… Get out the way!” Andy keeps on repeating as the procession gets going.

Clavicle Gravely blinks at Pritchard. “You are a Bones? Wow! Er.. that means we’re related.. on a cousin aunt or uncle side.” he hmmms. “I could be your Uncle! Er…ma’am.”

“What, really?” Noémie‘s face is rather blank as she is informed of her family ties to, well, anyone, really. Noémie has known none of her family, save for Arnauld Ribouet and his parents, who are a part of her father’s family who were also ostracized. She is not able to react to Melvina any more than this however as the Headmistress makes her way off the pitch again, Riley in tow. Riley and Melvina were related? Noémie is shocked by this, and rather than celebrating with her team, now wanders into the school, seeming rather dazed and now distracted. She’s definitely going to have to think about this. And owl her parents. Yes, perhaps she would send owls. Truth be told, Noémie isn’t exactly sure where she’s wandering.

Melvina Prichard shakes her head toward Clavicle. “Perhaps, thirty or forty times removed. There are several branches of the Bones family. The one from which I hail has shied away from Gravely blood. The carnival nature, mind. I don’t think it suited their more.. refined, tastes.” She doesn’t waste anymore time, however, pushing Riley off. Not even allowing him a moment to react to the startling news.

Striding onto the pitch, Noémie looks quite annoyed by the weather. Her usually wavy hair has turned quite frizzy with the moisture, on top of having to practice in the rain. Then again, Noémie is no quitter, and she’s certainly not about to call of a practice on account of a bit of rain. However torrential it happens to be. The captain takes to her broom, flying around a bit as she waits for the rest of her team to show up.

Bailey comes trotting onto the pitch, a bit out of breath, as he was forced to run clear from the Astronomy tower down to the pitch in order to make practice on time. That was what he got for trying to ask for extra credit work! “Oi, Noémie!” he calls and hails to his captain. He does not get onto his broom, instead, begins stretching out and readying himself for the rigorous practice his captain likely has in store.

Tegan Madison stamps onto the pitch, crossing her arms as she makes her way out. “Couldn’t she be bothered to ever cancel a practice?” the fourth year comments and sets her broom down on the ground nearby, mimicing Bailey’s motions as he stretches in preparation for their practice in the pouring rain. “It shouldn’t be this rainy so early in the year.” Nevermind that it is already early November. Tegan doesn’t care; she’s just in a rotten mood.

Late again, Van doesn’t seem quite as annoyed at the rain as Tegan. Indeed, Van doesn’t seem to be noticing much of anything as she comes trotting onto the pitch. “Hullo, everyone,” she greets her teammates in a chipper voice. Subject to Tegan’s glares, Van doesn’t appear to notice that her teammates are indeed less enthused about the rain, the weather, and life in general as she is at this moment. Her mussed hair could be attributed to rain, but then, those on the team know better than to assume such a thing. After all, on the clearest days, she often shows up in that very state. Regardless, Van drops her broom rather hazardously and begins half-heartedly stretching as well. The girl is clearly distracted and not thinking about Quidditch at all.

Flying down to land, Noémie steps off her broom and sets it down on the ground, coming to stand just in front of her team. “Well, thanks for finally joining us, Van,” she says coldly. “It’d be nice if this weren’t a habit of yours.” Oh, it is clearly going to be one of those practices. Noémie crosses her arms and squares off in front of those in front of her. “Alright, this is how it’s going to be today. You might as well put your brooms away, because today, we’re playing ground quidditch.” As if the name she used wasn’t ominous enough, Noémie‘s tone is rather forboding as she looks from person to person. “So, what I want you to do for starters is run four laps around the lenght of the pitch. And I do mean run, not walk.” Noémie herself has already done these laps, which would be obvious if any of her teammates bothered to notice how thoroughly soaked she was, but the chances of that happening were slim.

“What?” Bailey asks quietly, then sighs and turns on heel to begin running his laps around the pitch. No, today’s practice was not going to be a good one. He is thoroughly out of breath by the time he finally manages to finish his four laps. The laps were no small feat, after all! He was used to flying, not running. He hunches over, his hands on his knees as he stops trotting where Noémie is still standing in the center of the pitch, waiting for the others to catch up.

Tegan is noticably annoyed as Noémie makes this announcement and frowns very hard as she takes up running behind Bailey. It isn’t long before Bailey has lapped her, either, because Tegan is nearly a head shorter than the chaser, and she is certainly not accustomed to having to run anywhere. She does her best however, slowing down from time to time, attempting to catch her wind, but keeps up a steady pace otherwise, coming to a stop several minutes after Bailey has made it there. The girl, too, hunches over in exhaustion. How was this supposed to improve her Quidditch game, exactly?

Rather than groan and scoff as her teammates have done, Van makes her way around the pitch silently, at a rather slow, but steady pace. She is noticably less winded than Tegan or Bailey have become from the run, though she is a bit out of breath. She, however, does not feel the need to hunch over in the way that they have, and stands in front of Noémie, her hands clasped behind her back, rather afraid to ask what their captain has in store for them next.

“Alright, good run,” Noémie practically barks as she looks at all of her red-faced teammates. “Now, what I want you to do is, here, Tegan, take this bat, and Van, Bailey, you go just over that way,” She directs them with her arm towards the middle of the pitch. Throwing a quaffle to each, she steps back and picks her broom up again. She gets onto her broom and hovers in the air a bit while everyone gets set up where they are directed to go. “Now, what you’re going to do — no, back up more — is throw these Quaffles towards Tegan, then I want Tegan to hit them back to the person who threw it. If it misses, you do a lap. If you throw too short or too far, you do a lap. I’ll be keeping track. This is to work on your aim, Tegan. We’re counting on you, since Riley’s aim is unsteady at best. He’s got the power, I want you to be the aim. Alright, get to it!” Noémie is high enough above them to see what’s going on, but low enough that she can still bark orders at them if need be.

Clavicle Gravely is on the broom practicing throws with the team chaser and the second teams’ chasers. He speeds a quick circle as he finishes the Laps (Probably with David) and he zips around and looks to Noémie. “What’s the game plan now Captain?”

Bailey Williams runs over to where Noémie has pointed for him to go, and oofs rather loudly as a Quaffle is thrown at him rather hard. What was going on with Noémie today? Was it the rain causing her mood? The fourth year squares off towards Tegan, who is holding the bat, and heaves his ball hard in her direction. His aim is not the greatest on the shot and he seems to throw it about two feet above her head. The boy hopes very hard, though, that she is able to hit it, because he really doesn’t want to do any more laps, as he is still rather out of breath from the four he’s already done.

Clavicle Gravely is on the foot practicing throws with the team chaser and the second teams’ chasers. He speeds a quick circle as he finishes the Laps (Probably with David) and he zips around and looks to Noémie. “What’s the game plan now Captain?” He calls out, He’s apparently rready to start flying.

Tegan doesn’t look pleased — in fact, when has she looked so since the beginning of practice — and she looks even less pleased as her first shot is far above her head. She jumps up and hastily whacks it with her bat, but it heads towards the ground, and while it does roll to Bailey, it does so most of the way on the ground. The beater frowns, knowing that this means she has at least one lap for herself.

“Good one, Bailey,” Van comments rather chipperly, earning a glare from her teammate. “What?” She asks as she throws her Quaffle as close to Tegan as she can manage. The Keeper is adept by now at making these types of shots, though this one is rather pitiful, as it hits the ground about ten feet before it gets to Tegan. “Oops,” she comments rather blandly, watching for Tegan to retrieve it. Ah, well, Van still appears to be a bit distracted.

“You’ll keep throwing those quaffles until I say you’re done,” Noémie responds, her arms crossed as she hovers above all of them on her broom. “That’s one lap for Tegan and one for Van so far,” She announces, holding up one finger for demonstrative purposes. “At least ten throws each. I want to slaughter Gryffindor this weekend,” she tells them, her face still stern and unmoving.

Clavicle Gravely continues jogging and throwing. He starts looking a bit bored doing the repititive activity.

“Sorry, Tegan,” Bailey calls, sounding genuinely apologetic. He wipes his eyes and hair, attempting to dry them a bit, then looks to Tegan again, heaving the ball in her direction again, though this time not quite so hard. He watches in hopes that this throw will redeem himself, by making it a bit easier for her to hit this one where it goes.

“Don’t worry about it,” Tegan calls, though her irritation is apparent at the whole scenario. She hits quaffle after quaffle to the best of her ability, lobbing them each to the person who has thrown it while she attempts to keep her vision in all the drenching rain. She’s going to need a nice, hot bath after this. Lobbing another quaffle back, thankfully making more to her teammates than not, Tegan rather overestimates and ends up slipping and falling flat on her back. “I’m fine, don’t worry about me,” she calls and closes her eyes for a moment before standing up again and trying to rid her robes of mud. Oh, she could not wait for her bath!

“Good shot, Tegan!” Van calls wearily, catching another quaffle directly in the chest. The seventh year yawns a bit, quite tired already, but is jolted a bit as she watches Van fall flat on her back. “Oh, dear,” she breathes and looks carefully to make sure her teammate is alright while awaiting her turn to throw again. This certainly would be a practice to remember.

“Alright, I think the count is…” Noémie flies down while she tries to count up how many drops there were between the lot of them. “Oh, I don’t remember. Six laps for everyone, because ten makes a nice round number, and call it a day.” Noémie dismounts her broom and stands on the wet pitch, her vengeance clearly served as she looks at all of her drenched teammates. “Run your six, then go have a hot shower and do your homework. I don’t want to hear that we have to use someone from the Junior Squad because someone hasn’t done his or her homework.” She walks around, collecting the quaffles, her broom still in hand, then stalks off to the broom shed without much else to say. She is, of course, watching to make sure that nobody skives off their run. There would be hell to pay if she caught someone cheating.

Clavicle Gravely continues running up and down with the other chasers. practicing tossing and catching. He occassionally watches the beater practice.

Bailey Williams takes off for a run as his quaffle is retrived from him. One, two, three… How he hates running! The chaser huffs and puffs, and the last lap of his set is rather slow as he has run out of steam for running and practice. He had to hand it to Noémie, she never ceased to surprise him. The chaser finally finishes his laps and puts his broom away, though the object hasn’t gotten much use this practice, quite glad for once that he had bothered to stretch beforehand. “See you tomorrow,” he mutters to his teammates as he makes his way inside, already stiffening up from the extra activity. Yes, Bailey will sleep very well tonight.

Tegan Madison is quite glad practice is finally over, though she’s sure she didn’t drop the ball quite so many times. Then again, Noémie seemed to just assign an amount to everyone and have on her way. The beater runs at a much slower pace in her final six laps than she had in her first, and much of her anger has subsided and evolved into pure exhaustion as she, too, stores her broom in the shed and makes her way to Ravenclaw commons. Tegan finds herself feeling very glad that she had already finished her homework before coming to practice, because she certainly was not going to be able to manage any homework now.

Van, too, is exhausted at the end of practice, and is, indeed, the last to be off the pitch after her laps. The keeper is rather glad that none of her teammates are around to see her thoroughly dissheveled appearance when she finishes. Van makes some vain attempts to smooth her hair and dry her clothes under an eave near the entrance to the castle, but finds that this is futile and instead stomps on the stairs to the commonroom, headed for hot bath and a warm bed. To hell with homework.

Clavicle Gravely wraps up his part and trots over as he helps clean up the balls and practice gear

The captain of the team organizes the supplies in the shed and then steps back out onto the pitch without her broom. She walks into the center, glancing around, then starts her own set of six laps around the pitch. She would do no less than her team did, even if none of them saw it. The fifth year prefect keeps a steady pace as she does one, two, three laps, then four… After finishing her laps, Noémie slowly makes her way into the castle, for her part, to dry off and clean up a bit, and then to work on her remaining homework. After all, she had OWLs this year, a fact which none of her teammates could claim. The girl shrugs off all thoughts of Quidditch and practicing as she attempts to focus on her schoolwork.