Freak!
Summary: What happens when anything supernatural can happen in the Olympics? How will it affect Paul Kariya when he finds out that his cousin's a witch who went to Hogwart's? What danger is Harry and the gang trying to warn her about? Will one of the guys be able to win her heart?
A/N: I know it's a /little/ late to be writing anything about the 2002 Olympics at Salt Lake. But since I like Team Canada and Harry Potter and I'm bored, my mind started cooking up this crazy story. So I thought, why not go for it ^_^. In this story, I am Kariya's cousin, which I'm not in real life (I know, I know..I have no shame -_-;;). If I've made mistakes on accuracy about anything major, please feel free to correct me. I don't know much about hockey, but I like watching it, though. However, I am taking liberties with their characters and personalities.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything associated with Harry Potter, which belongs exclusively to J.K. Rowling. I also do NOT own anything belonging to J.R.R. Tolkien, Mozart and any composers mentioned in this fic, the VSO, Douglas College, the NHL, Gap, the Olympics, Team Canada, Paul Kariya, the guys, all the other athletes and their family members. They belong to themselves. I own me though ^_^
Jan 30, 2002
Another year has gone by and winter was almost coming to an end. Life after Hogwart's found the four of them in different occupations. Our famous trio, now twenty years old were enjoying teatime at Hermione's office at Hogwart's. Harry Potter and Ron Weasley were now members of the English Quidditch Team. Hermione became the next Charms teacher after Flitwick's retirement and Ginny became co-teacher/assistant to Hagrid in Care for Magical Creatures.
Harry pondered for a while. Ginny looked at him tenderly and placed a hand on his arm, "What are you thinking?"
"Hmm?" Harry woke up from his thoughts, "Oh, I was just trying to recall something....Oh, wait! I think I do now!"
He fished in his backpack for something while his friends watched expectantly.
"Do you remember Mel?" Harry asked without looking up.
"Yeah, I remember her. It's been a bloody long time since we'd last seen her, three years I think....." Ron replied, stroking his chin, "I wonder how she is now? What is she doing?"
"Why do you ask?" Hermione added quizzically.
He finally pulled out an envelope, which had been torn open. He pulled out a letter, which had been typed on desktop stationery that had a violin, flute and piano background and held it out for them to see.
"I got this three days ago. It's a letter from Mel," Harry replied, placing the letter on the table. The three of them read in silence.
"Dear Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny,
Hello there! How have you all been doing? It's been such a bloody long time since I've seen you, let alone written to you! I've missed my favourite Gryffindors, as you always have been and will be. Three years...three long years. I can't believe time flew by so fast, though the memories are still fresh. Hogwart memories, and all of you are in them. As I look back now, I think of all those times we used to spend together laughing, crying, fighting and sharing adventures and wonder....will I ever see you again.
Well, It's my third year back in the muggle world and still keeping busy. I am currently attending College in BC, majoring in music and am also playing in the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. It's loads of fun, but its pretty demanding at times that I am almost tempted to hate it. Music has been my escape from reality when things get harsh, especially thinking of the four of you.
By the way, I meant to tell you something I'm bloody excited about! This year, the Winter Olympics are going to be held at Salt Lake City! Do you remember Paul? The cousin I've told you about who plays ice hockey? He is going to be playing in it!!! I am so happy and proud of him! That's only half of it. This Christmas, mum and dad surprised me when they announced that they bought me a plane ticket and a pass so that I can actually watch the games! Can you imagine that?! I actually get to watch Canada win the gold!!! At least, I hope I do. Oh, I am in heaven! I wish I could be there to tell you in person. I'm not gloating or anything; I'm just happy.
Anyways, I'd love to know what you've all been up to. Please owl or write me. It really doesn't matter. The address is on the envelope. You guys should visit me sometimes because I can't. It really sucks because I don't/have/ an apparating license yet. Grr! What's taking so bloody long!?! (Although floo powder works, but it's not as fun .)
Anyways, I understand from your last letter that Hermione and Ginny are now teaching at Howarts! Good for you guys! Please say hi to Professor Dumbledore and everybody!
Semper fidelis,
Mel"
The four of them looked at the letter with different expressions on their face.
"Winter Olympics 2002. Salt Lake City, Utah," Hermione Granger marveled excitedly, "It's one of the /most/ exciting muggle events ever invented."
Harry, Ron and Ginny stared at her blankly.
"What's the Olympics?" Ron asked cluelessly. Typically, anything muggle- related tended to stupefy him.
"It's a giant sports event where athletes from all over the world get together and compete with each other in different sports," Hermione explained.
"Oh, I see," Harry murmured, "With quidditch?" he added uncertainly.
"No. It's an all-muggle sport event," Hermione repeated, looking at him, "No quidditch."
"Bummer," Ron muttered under his breath.
"And this is something to get all worked up on?" Ginny asked, unsure.
"Yes!" Hermoine said as she shot up from her seat, startling the others, "The Winter Olympics happen every four years and it is one of the most exciting events! Oh, hgow I remember watching skiers and snowboarders compete with each other in the living room! It's so exciting!"
"Yes, Hermione. You've said that already," Ron said exasperatedly.
"I've never been in a muggle sporting event before," Harry said somewhat sadly. Ginny squeezed his hand comfortingly and he squeezed it back. Through their years at Hogwart's, both Ginny and Harry have taken a liking for each other. This developed into something that resulted in their now four-year relationship. Ginny have never saw Harry as "The Boy Who Lived" and instead saw him as a person; a boy-next-door who was caring, funny and kind. Likewise, Harry saw in Ginny a gentle and compassionate woman she developed into.
Ginny comforted him, "I know you've missed out on so much, living with those horrid muggles. If I had the powers to change things, I would. But you know what, Harry? They don't have any control over you now. Ever since you've left them to live with Sirius, you are free now. You don't have to miss out anymore."
"Thanks Gin," Harry said softly and smiled at her. She smiled back. Harry loved her smile. It was warm and full of love.
They sipped the remainder of their tea in silence. Just then, Albus Dumbledore walked in the room. He smiled warmly upon watching his former students as grown ups, with exciting careers and lives. He had always considered them as children, which he freely gave guidance and love. And he still does. He didn't want to ruin the scene of them enjoing tea peacefully, but he reluctantly did so.
"And how are my favourite Gryffindors doing?" He greeted. They took a start and turned around to face their old and respectable former Headmaster. He still looked the same, though a little bit older. He wore a purple robe and his all-familiar half-moon spectacles. His long hair and beard reached his waist and hung undisturbed.
"Professor Dumbledore! Fancy meeting you here!" Harry exclaimed with pure joy. He stood up and embraced his old headmaster, mentor and friend.
Dumbledore embraced him back, "Ah! Harry Potter! All grown up! I've heard that you and Ron Weasley have led Britain to victory last season?"
Harry let go and let Ron embrace Dumbledore.
"It's so good to see you Professor!" Ron exclaimed happily.
Dumbledore chuckled, "Ron Weasley! Griffindor's most beloved Chaser! It's good to see you!"
Ginny and Hermione also stood to embrace him.
"And why not? It's not everyday I get a hug from the teachers that used to be my students!" Dumbledore returned the gesture, "How are the children?"
"Oh, fine professor! They are absolutely wonderful, except for the Slytherins," Hermione rolled her eyes; Harry and Ron sniggered.
"Ugh! Don't remind me!" Ron drawled, "I still can't get that git Malfoy's face off my mind!"
Harry moaned in agreement, "And Snape!"
More groans of agreement.
"Anyways, professor. Is there anything you'd like to see us about?" Hermione asked.
"Ah, sit down," Dumbledore gestured. The four of them did so and looked at him expectantly.
"Do you know what year it is?" he asked.
"It's 2002," Hermione replied back. She felt it weird that he should be asking that and wondered why.
"And do you know what is going to take place in the muggle world?" he asked again, boring his eyes into theirs.
They stared blankly at him for a long while. Then a light bulb flashed above Harry's head, "The Olympics?" He answered uncertainly more like a question.
Dumbledore smiled and nodded," Very good, Harry. Have you ever been into an event such as that?"
"N-no," Harry looked at Ron, Ginny and Hermione questioningly, then back to Dumbledore again.
"Hmm," Dumbledore sighed, "Now, perhaps you are all wondering why I am asking these questions."
They looked at him, waiting for the answer. Then a surprising answer came.
"I would like all four of you to go to Salt Lake City this February, if that's possible. Potter, I know you and Weasley are busy with Quidditch this season, but this would only be for two weeks. I hope you can make amends with your schedule and accept this proposal."
They were taken off-guard and stared back at him, stunned.
"E-excuse me, professor, but Did I hear you wrong? Did you just say that you /want/ us to go to the Winter Olympics?" Hermione spat.
"You heard right, Miss Granger."
"B-but why?!" Ron sputtered, surprised.
"I shall explain," Dumbledore replied with a smile, "I would like you to do something, not for me but for someone who's going to be there." As he explained, Dumbledore was half aware that two figures were listening outside the room. He smiled, for he wanted them to hear it, too, for they were going to play major parts in this assignment.
Feb. 13, 2002
Olympics 2002, Salt Lake City. It was beyond any participating athlete's dreams to do their country proud and winning as many medals as possible. It was two weeks of tough competition, but it was also worth the pain and disappointments, as long as one wins. However, it was more pressure for the Canadian men and women's ice hockey teams. It was going to be a tough fight to compete for the gold because Canada hasn't won any since their last victory 50 years ago.
There were two more days left to train until the men plays their first game against Sweden. Some of the players have been through the heat and pressure from previous Olympic games and are hardened by experience. Others have discovered how it really was for the first time. The fact is all of them have an enormous mission of bringing home the Gold. Like Atlas in Greek mythology, they could feel the weight of their country, and the world, on their shoulders.
As the guys train, they have other problems and obstacles to overcome, such as the big ice, the absence of the red line, Wayne Gretzky's ranting and raving about the world hating Canada and overcoming their diversities and resolving personal dislikes of each other in order to come together as a team.
After practice, the guys hit the showers and started talking about hockey and other things. "Boy do I feel like crap! I don't think I can stand another minute of practicing!" a tired Ryan Smyth exclaimed as he got dressed in a sweater and jeans.
He wasn't the only one. Next to him, Chris Pronger stuffed his uniform and gear in his huge hockey bag, hair dripping and smelling strongly of Irish Spring, "We've been practicing like Trojans for days and I still cannot get used to the huge surface of the rink!"
"We'd better get used to it soon. Our first game's in two days," Paul Kariya replied. He proceeded to tying his runners and packing his gear up as well. "Man you smell good."
"Thanks, man, but I didn't expect my scent to attract young men." Chris joked.
Paul threw his towel at him. Ryan laughed.
"Hey Prongs! Maybe it would help if smelled like that on our first game. Might distract those Swedes and we'd probably have a better chance of winning," Ed Jovanovski called out across the room and those who heard, which was just about everyone, howled.
"Look who's talking, Oil of Olay boy!" Chris retorted.
"Good one, Prongs. Good one," Paul whispered in amusement as the men howled some more.
Joe Sakic, Eric Brewer and Jarome Iginla leaned over and pretended to sniff Ed.
"Man! You /do/ smell good!" Jarome exclaimed with mock amazement, "You really use Oil of Olay?!"
Joe shook his head, smiling, "I have always wondered where that smell came from."
"It's alright Ed," Eric patted the 6'2 defenseman on the shoulder sympathetically, "There's no shame in showing your feminine side."
The room roared.
"I'm gonna get you for that, Prongs!" Ed called out irritably.
"Speaking of scents, I smell a gold medal coming our way!" Owen Nolan shouted and was greeted with excited whoops and "yeah's".
"We'd better win. Otherwise some one's gonna die..." Steve Yzerman muttered, determined and focused, under his breath. Paul, who had been standing beside him, squeezed his shoulders reassuringly, "We will, Steve. Have faith in ourselves. We'll come together as a team.
Steve turned to face him angrily, "We'd better!"
Paul watched in shocked silence as Steve angrily kicked the wall, causing some of the men to look with shocked expressions. He knew it better to give Steve some space.
"Nagano's still eating him," Mario Lemieux whispered and jerked his head slightly towards Yzerman, "Best leave him to me. You go join the guys."
Paul nodded at his captain in admiration.
Mario patted his shoulders, "You're a good man, Kariya. It's good you're on this team."
Paul thanked him, gathered his gear and jogged towards Eric Brewer, Ryan, Ed and Joe, leaving Mario with an upset Steve.
"What's up with Yzerman?" Eric jerked his head towards the dressing room.
"Still upset about Nagano." Paul replied quietly.
"He's still on that?" Joe spat out, surprised, "That was four years ago!"
Eric shook his head, "With that kind of attitude, he's not gonna be able to focus well."
"Our captain's talking to him right now. Leave it to him to calm him down." Paul said.
"He'd better." Ryan muttered, "We need him."
They walked towards the International Olympic Villages, where all the competing athletes were staying, in silence.
"Say, Kariya, got any plans tonight?" Ed asked, breaking the silence.
"No. Why?" Paul asked.
"Wanna join us for dinner and beer later tonight?" he asked.
"And perhaps see if there are any hot chicks?" Ryan leaned over with an impish smile and raised his eyebrows three times.
Paul punched his shoulders playfully, "Come on. You guys are married! Besides, we've got to stay focus on the games, not on chicks!"
"Correction. We're married except for you and Brewer here," Ed pointed his thumb towards Eric.
"Huh?" was his stunned reply.
Ryan suddenly stopped in front of the guys and placed a hand on Eric's shoulder, "Say, I'm willing to bet here that we'll find some hot chick to set up young Brewer with. Who's with me?"
"What?!" he screeched.
As the guys looked at each other and considered the proposal, they smiled and nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, that would be a good idea." Ed replied.
When Eric finally got to his senses, his face turned a deep shade of red and he started to sputter, "But.but.."
"And Kariya, too." Ed interjected.
It was Paul's turn to protest, "No way! You ain't setting me up with some chick. We've got games to focus on! Now isn't a time to be playing matchmaker! Do that after the games."
"Aw, c'mon Kariya. You and your focused mind. Live and have some fun for once!" Ryan swaggered over and patted his back.
"What do you say, Sakic? Can we set up these two bachelors?" Ryan asked.
All this time, Joe had been quiet. "Hmm?"
"You should get your mind out of the gutter, too, Joe," Ed teased, "We were wondering here if it's possible to get these two guys hooked up. We need some words of wisdom from wise old Joe Sakic."
Joe laughed and shook his head.
"Typical," Ryan chuckled, "Quoteless Joe."
As they approached the Canadian Olympic Village, Paul knitted his brow as he caught a familiar fragrant scent. At the same time, Eric started sniffing.
"Is it just me or do you guys smell something?" Eric wondered out loud.
"Eric, there are a lot of smells here. It's probably the air carrying a lot of smells." Ryan drawled.
"No. Something smells nice..like grapefruit perfume." Eric replied.
The Ryan and Ed started laughing.
"Since when did you become supersensitive to perfume?" Ed teased, "You were saying something about having no shame in showing one's feminine side a little while ago, Brewer?"
"I know that smell, too," Joe spoke up, "I know that smell. Debbie uses it sometimes, but she's not even here."
While the guys bickered, Paul focused on the sweet smell of grapefruit. The smell was so familiar. Then it finally dawned on him. There was only one person who had that scent. He frantically searched the crowd of people.
"Hey Kariya, who'rya lookin for?" Ryan asked and also started to look around.
Paul searched around frantically for a black haired lady until he finally found her. He squinted his eyes to see better and his eyes widened in recognition. Paul brushed Ed aside and happily ran towards the girl.
"Mel!"
Summary: What happens when anything supernatural can happen in the Olympics? How will it affect Paul Kariya when he finds out that his cousin's a witch who went to Hogwart's? What danger is Harry and the gang trying to warn her about? Will one of the guys be able to win her heart?
A/N: I know it's a /little/ late to be writing anything about the 2002 Olympics at Salt Lake. But since I like Team Canada and Harry Potter and I'm bored, my mind started cooking up this crazy story. So I thought, why not go for it ^_^. In this story, I am Kariya's cousin, which I'm not in real life (I know, I know..I have no shame -_-;;). If I've made mistakes on accuracy about anything major, please feel free to correct me. I don't know much about hockey, but I like watching it, though. However, I am taking liberties with their characters and personalities.
Disclaimer: I don't own anything associated with Harry Potter, which belongs exclusively to J.K. Rowling. I also do NOT own anything belonging to J.R.R. Tolkien, Mozart and any composers mentioned in this fic, the VSO, Douglas College, the NHL, Gap, the Olympics, Team Canada, Paul Kariya, the guys, all the other athletes and their family members. They belong to themselves. I own me though ^_^
Jan 30, 2002
Another year has gone by and winter was almost coming to an end. Life after Hogwart's found the four of them in different occupations. Our famous trio, now twenty years old were enjoying teatime at Hermione's office at Hogwart's. Harry Potter and Ron Weasley were now members of the English Quidditch Team. Hermione became the next Charms teacher after Flitwick's retirement and Ginny became co-teacher/assistant to Hagrid in Care for Magical Creatures.
Harry pondered for a while. Ginny looked at him tenderly and placed a hand on his arm, "What are you thinking?"
"Hmm?" Harry woke up from his thoughts, "Oh, I was just trying to recall something....Oh, wait! I think I do now!"
He fished in his backpack for something while his friends watched expectantly.
"Do you remember Mel?" Harry asked without looking up.
"Yeah, I remember her. It's been a bloody long time since we'd last seen her, three years I think....." Ron replied, stroking his chin, "I wonder how she is now? What is she doing?"
"Why do you ask?" Hermione added quizzically.
He finally pulled out an envelope, which had been torn open. He pulled out a letter, which had been typed on desktop stationery that had a violin, flute and piano background and held it out for them to see.
"I got this three days ago. It's a letter from Mel," Harry replied, placing the letter on the table. The three of them read in silence.
"Dear Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny,
Hello there! How have you all been doing? It's been such a bloody long time since I've seen you, let alone written to you! I've missed my favourite Gryffindors, as you always have been and will be. Three years...three long years. I can't believe time flew by so fast, though the memories are still fresh. Hogwart memories, and all of you are in them. As I look back now, I think of all those times we used to spend together laughing, crying, fighting and sharing adventures and wonder....will I ever see you again.
Well, It's my third year back in the muggle world and still keeping busy. I am currently attending College in BC, majoring in music and am also playing in the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. It's loads of fun, but its pretty demanding at times that I am almost tempted to hate it. Music has been my escape from reality when things get harsh, especially thinking of the four of you.
By the way, I meant to tell you something I'm bloody excited about! This year, the Winter Olympics are going to be held at Salt Lake City! Do you remember Paul? The cousin I've told you about who plays ice hockey? He is going to be playing in it!!! I am so happy and proud of him! That's only half of it. This Christmas, mum and dad surprised me when they announced that they bought me a plane ticket and a pass so that I can actually watch the games! Can you imagine that?! I actually get to watch Canada win the gold!!! At least, I hope I do. Oh, I am in heaven! I wish I could be there to tell you in person. I'm not gloating or anything; I'm just happy.
Anyways, I'd love to know what you've all been up to. Please owl or write me. It really doesn't matter. The address is on the envelope. You guys should visit me sometimes because I can't. It really sucks because I don't/have/ an apparating license yet. Grr! What's taking so bloody long!?! (Although floo powder works, but it's not as fun .)
Anyways, I understand from your last letter that Hermione and Ginny are now teaching at Howarts! Good for you guys! Please say hi to Professor Dumbledore and everybody!
Semper fidelis,
Mel"
The four of them looked at the letter with different expressions on their face.
"Winter Olympics 2002. Salt Lake City, Utah," Hermione Granger marveled excitedly, "It's one of the /most/ exciting muggle events ever invented."
Harry, Ron and Ginny stared at her blankly.
"What's the Olympics?" Ron asked cluelessly. Typically, anything muggle- related tended to stupefy him.
"It's a giant sports event where athletes from all over the world get together and compete with each other in different sports," Hermione explained.
"Oh, I see," Harry murmured, "With quidditch?" he added uncertainly.
"No. It's an all-muggle sport event," Hermione repeated, looking at him, "No quidditch."
"Bummer," Ron muttered under his breath.
"And this is something to get all worked up on?" Ginny asked, unsure.
"Yes!" Hermoine said as she shot up from her seat, startling the others, "The Winter Olympics happen every four years and it is one of the most exciting events! Oh, hgow I remember watching skiers and snowboarders compete with each other in the living room! It's so exciting!"
"Yes, Hermione. You've said that already," Ron said exasperatedly.
"I've never been in a muggle sporting event before," Harry said somewhat sadly. Ginny squeezed his hand comfortingly and he squeezed it back. Through their years at Hogwart's, both Ginny and Harry have taken a liking for each other. This developed into something that resulted in their now four-year relationship. Ginny have never saw Harry as "The Boy Who Lived" and instead saw him as a person; a boy-next-door who was caring, funny and kind. Likewise, Harry saw in Ginny a gentle and compassionate woman she developed into.
Ginny comforted him, "I know you've missed out on so much, living with those horrid muggles. If I had the powers to change things, I would. But you know what, Harry? They don't have any control over you now. Ever since you've left them to live with Sirius, you are free now. You don't have to miss out anymore."
"Thanks Gin," Harry said softly and smiled at her. She smiled back. Harry loved her smile. It was warm and full of love.
They sipped the remainder of their tea in silence. Just then, Albus Dumbledore walked in the room. He smiled warmly upon watching his former students as grown ups, with exciting careers and lives. He had always considered them as children, which he freely gave guidance and love. And he still does. He didn't want to ruin the scene of them enjoing tea peacefully, but he reluctantly did so.
"And how are my favourite Gryffindors doing?" He greeted. They took a start and turned around to face their old and respectable former Headmaster. He still looked the same, though a little bit older. He wore a purple robe and his all-familiar half-moon spectacles. His long hair and beard reached his waist and hung undisturbed.
"Professor Dumbledore! Fancy meeting you here!" Harry exclaimed with pure joy. He stood up and embraced his old headmaster, mentor and friend.
Dumbledore embraced him back, "Ah! Harry Potter! All grown up! I've heard that you and Ron Weasley have led Britain to victory last season?"
Harry let go and let Ron embrace Dumbledore.
"It's so good to see you Professor!" Ron exclaimed happily.
Dumbledore chuckled, "Ron Weasley! Griffindor's most beloved Chaser! It's good to see you!"
Ginny and Hermione also stood to embrace him.
"And why not? It's not everyday I get a hug from the teachers that used to be my students!" Dumbledore returned the gesture, "How are the children?"
"Oh, fine professor! They are absolutely wonderful, except for the Slytherins," Hermione rolled her eyes; Harry and Ron sniggered.
"Ugh! Don't remind me!" Ron drawled, "I still can't get that git Malfoy's face off my mind!"
Harry moaned in agreement, "And Snape!"
More groans of agreement.
"Anyways, professor. Is there anything you'd like to see us about?" Hermione asked.
"Ah, sit down," Dumbledore gestured. The four of them did so and looked at him expectantly.
"Do you know what year it is?" he asked.
"It's 2002," Hermione replied back. She felt it weird that he should be asking that and wondered why.
"And do you know what is going to take place in the muggle world?" he asked again, boring his eyes into theirs.
They stared blankly at him for a long while. Then a light bulb flashed above Harry's head, "The Olympics?" He answered uncertainly more like a question.
Dumbledore smiled and nodded," Very good, Harry. Have you ever been into an event such as that?"
"N-no," Harry looked at Ron, Ginny and Hermione questioningly, then back to Dumbledore again.
"Hmm," Dumbledore sighed, "Now, perhaps you are all wondering why I am asking these questions."
They looked at him, waiting for the answer. Then a surprising answer came.
"I would like all four of you to go to Salt Lake City this February, if that's possible. Potter, I know you and Weasley are busy with Quidditch this season, but this would only be for two weeks. I hope you can make amends with your schedule and accept this proposal."
They were taken off-guard and stared back at him, stunned.
"E-excuse me, professor, but Did I hear you wrong? Did you just say that you /want/ us to go to the Winter Olympics?" Hermione spat.
"You heard right, Miss Granger."
"B-but why?!" Ron sputtered, surprised.
"I shall explain," Dumbledore replied with a smile, "I would like you to do something, not for me but for someone who's going to be there." As he explained, Dumbledore was half aware that two figures were listening outside the room. He smiled, for he wanted them to hear it, too, for they were going to play major parts in this assignment.
Feb. 13, 2002
Olympics 2002, Salt Lake City. It was beyond any participating athlete's dreams to do their country proud and winning as many medals as possible. It was two weeks of tough competition, but it was also worth the pain and disappointments, as long as one wins. However, it was more pressure for the Canadian men and women's ice hockey teams. It was going to be a tough fight to compete for the gold because Canada hasn't won any since their last victory 50 years ago.
There were two more days left to train until the men plays their first game against Sweden. Some of the players have been through the heat and pressure from previous Olympic games and are hardened by experience. Others have discovered how it really was for the first time. The fact is all of them have an enormous mission of bringing home the Gold. Like Atlas in Greek mythology, they could feel the weight of their country, and the world, on their shoulders.
As the guys train, they have other problems and obstacles to overcome, such as the big ice, the absence of the red line, Wayne Gretzky's ranting and raving about the world hating Canada and overcoming their diversities and resolving personal dislikes of each other in order to come together as a team.
After practice, the guys hit the showers and started talking about hockey and other things. "Boy do I feel like crap! I don't think I can stand another minute of practicing!" a tired Ryan Smyth exclaimed as he got dressed in a sweater and jeans.
He wasn't the only one. Next to him, Chris Pronger stuffed his uniform and gear in his huge hockey bag, hair dripping and smelling strongly of Irish Spring, "We've been practicing like Trojans for days and I still cannot get used to the huge surface of the rink!"
"We'd better get used to it soon. Our first game's in two days," Paul Kariya replied. He proceeded to tying his runners and packing his gear up as well. "Man you smell good."
"Thanks, man, but I didn't expect my scent to attract young men." Chris joked.
Paul threw his towel at him. Ryan laughed.
"Hey Prongs! Maybe it would help if smelled like that on our first game. Might distract those Swedes and we'd probably have a better chance of winning," Ed Jovanovski called out across the room and those who heard, which was just about everyone, howled.
"Look who's talking, Oil of Olay boy!" Chris retorted.
"Good one, Prongs. Good one," Paul whispered in amusement as the men howled some more.
Joe Sakic, Eric Brewer and Jarome Iginla leaned over and pretended to sniff Ed.
"Man! You /do/ smell good!" Jarome exclaimed with mock amazement, "You really use Oil of Olay?!"
Joe shook his head, smiling, "I have always wondered where that smell came from."
"It's alright Ed," Eric patted the 6'2 defenseman on the shoulder sympathetically, "There's no shame in showing your feminine side."
The room roared.
"I'm gonna get you for that, Prongs!" Ed called out irritably.
"Speaking of scents, I smell a gold medal coming our way!" Owen Nolan shouted and was greeted with excited whoops and "yeah's".
"We'd better win. Otherwise some one's gonna die..." Steve Yzerman muttered, determined and focused, under his breath. Paul, who had been standing beside him, squeezed his shoulders reassuringly, "We will, Steve. Have faith in ourselves. We'll come together as a team.
Steve turned to face him angrily, "We'd better!"
Paul watched in shocked silence as Steve angrily kicked the wall, causing some of the men to look with shocked expressions. He knew it better to give Steve some space.
"Nagano's still eating him," Mario Lemieux whispered and jerked his head slightly towards Yzerman, "Best leave him to me. You go join the guys."
Paul nodded at his captain in admiration.
Mario patted his shoulders, "You're a good man, Kariya. It's good you're on this team."
Paul thanked him, gathered his gear and jogged towards Eric Brewer, Ryan, Ed and Joe, leaving Mario with an upset Steve.
"What's up with Yzerman?" Eric jerked his head towards the dressing room.
"Still upset about Nagano." Paul replied quietly.
"He's still on that?" Joe spat out, surprised, "That was four years ago!"
Eric shook his head, "With that kind of attitude, he's not gonna be able to focus well."
"Our captain's talking to him right now. Leave it to him to calm him down." Paul said.
"He'd better." Ryan muttered, "We need him."
They walked towards the International Olympic Villages, where all the competing athletes were staying, in silence.
"Say, Kariya, got any plans tonight?" Ed asked, breaking the silence.
"No. Why?" Paul asked.
"Wanna join us for dinner and beer later tonight?" he asked.
"And perhaps see if there are any hot chicks?" Ryan leaned over with an impish smile and raised his eyebrows three times.
Paul punched his shoulders playfully, "Come on. You guys are married! Besides, we've got to stay focus on the games, not on chicks!"
"Correction. We're married except for you and Brewer here," Ed pointed his thumb towards Eric.
"Huh?" was his stunned reply.
Ryan suddenly stopped in front of the guys and placed a hand on Eric's shoulder, "Say, I'm willing to bet here that we'll find some hot chick to set up young Brewer with. Who's with me?"
"What?!" he screeched.
As the guys looked at each other and considered the proposal, they smiled and nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, that would be a good idea." Ed replied.
When Eric finally got to his senses, his face turned a deep shade of red and he started to sputter, "But.but.."
"And Kariya, too." Ed interjected.
It was Paul's turn to protest, "No way! You ain't setting me up with some chick. We've got games to focus on! Now isn't a time to be playing matchmaker! Do that after the games."
"Aw, c'mon Kariya. You and your focused mind. Live and have some fun for once!" Ryan swaggered over and patted his back.
"What do you say, Sakic? Can we set up these two bachelors?" Ryan asked.
All this time, Joe had been quiet. "Hmm?"
"You should get your mind out of the gutter, too, Joe," Ed teased, "We were wondering here if it's possible to get these two guys hooked up. We need some words of wisdom from wise old Joe Sakic."
Joe laughed and shook his head.
"Typical," Ryan chuckled, "Quoteless Joe."
As they approached the Canadian Olympic Village, Paul knitted his brow as he caught a familiar fragrant scent. At the same time, Eric started sniffing.
"Is it just me or do you guys smell something?" Eric wondered out loud.
"Eric, there are a lot of smells here. It's probably the air carrying a lot of smells." Ryan drawled.
"No. Something smells nice..like grapefruit perfume." Eric replied.
The Ryan and Ed started laughing.
"Since when did you become supersensitive to perfume?" Ed teased, "You were saying something about having no shame in showing one's feminine side a little while ago, Brewer?"
"I know that smell, too," Joe spoke up, "I know that smell. Debbie uses it sometimes, but she's not even here."
While the guys bickered, Paul focused on the sweet smell of grapefruit. The smell was so familiar. Then it finally dawned on him. There was only one person who had that scent. He frantically searched the crowd of people.
"Hey Kariya, who'rya lookin for?" Ryan asked and also started to look around.
Paul searched around frantically for a black haired lady until he finally found her. He squinted his eyes to see better and his eyes widened in recognition. Paul brushed Ed aside and happily ran towards the girl.
"Mel!"