Chapter 219: Final Exams
When Hagrid noticed Kyle in his Quidditch uniform, he suddenly remembered that today was the match between Hufflepuff and Slytherin. But the game had started a long time ago. Since Kyle was one of the team's Chasers, this meant...
"I'm sorry, Kyle," Hagrid said apologetically. "It's my fault you missed the match!"
"It's alright..." Kyle waved his hand dismissively. "As long as Norbert stays hidden, we're already more than 300 points ahead of second place. Winning or losing today doesn't really matter, so I'll just treat it like a day off."
...
The two made their way toward the Quidditch Pitch, Hagrid following behind Kyle. Due to some inexplicable stroke of fate—something that even magic couldn't account for—by the time they arrived, the match had just ended.
Kyle looked up at the scoreboard.
170:70.
Hufflepuff had won!
Though the absence of Kyle weakened their offense, and Harris struggled to keep up against Slytherin, they still had Cedric. As Kyle walked through the tunnel onto the field, he saw Cedric standing tall, arms raised high, his fingers clutching the Snitch, which gleamed golden in the sunlight.
A roar of cheers erupted from the stands, celebrating Hufflepuff's early-season victory. Five hundred and sixty points—a mountain of a lead over Gryffindor and Ravenclaw. Almost impossible to overcome. Unless they cheated.
Hagrid joined the crowd, cheering heartily. It felt great to see Hufflepuff victorious.