Chapter 619: Fudge’s Letter
By Friday, the weather remained as gloomy and rain-soaked as it had been all week. Yet, the Hufflepuff Quidditch team hadn't missed a single training session.
As Fred had pointed out earlier, Cedric was becoming increasingly reminiscent of Oliver Wood, driven by an intense focus on the game. A bit of rain wasn't going to stop him.
At 8:30 p.m., the team returned, thoroughly drenched and exhausted, to the welcoming warmth of the Hufflepuff common room.
Kyle removed the waterproof badge from his uniform and settled into a chair, sipping the hot cocoa Kanna had thoughtfully prepared earlier. Across the room, Cedric sat with a steaming cup of tea, which he'd fetched himself from the kitchen.
"Tomorrow is Hogsmeade visiting day," remarked Midaan Ancona, the new third-year Keeper, as she carefully removed her waterproof badge and stored it safely. "What's it like there? I've never been."
Only students in their third year and above were allowed to visit Hogsmeade on designated weekends. Younger students had to remain in the castle, leaving the village as something of a mystery for those like Midaan.
"It's really fun," Cedric assured her. "I recommend starting with Honeydukes—it's always packed because it's the most popular shop in Hogsmeade."
"Dervish & Banges is another good spot," added Kanna. "They sell all kinds of interesting magical items, like Self-Writing Quills and reusable parchment."
"And if you're into something more unconventional, don't miss Zonko's Joke Shop," Kyle suggested with a grin.
"Then head to The Three Broomsticks for Butterbeer," someone chimed in. "Or try Pumpkin Fizz or Cherry Honey Soda—it's way better than the Pumpkin Juice we get at school."
Midaan's eyes sparkled with anticipation, her excitement palpable. She clearly couldn't wait to experience Hogsmeade for the first time.