She hated the way they always went on and on about quidditch. Now, most would think that this was because she hated the game. However, the opposite was true.

Hermione loved the game. Ever since Harry made the house team their first year, she was hooked. She was actually a decent chaser. She couldn't really tell how good she was because she never got the chance to play. The boys never asked her to play. When they were at the Burrow, they would pick their own teams, and she was left to watch on the sidelines.

Well, she thought, this year's going to be different. Hermione's parents surprised her with a Firebolt for her birthday, and now she felt like she could properly try out for the Gryffindor team. She decided to ask Harry and Ron what tryouts were like.

As the Hogwarts Express approached their home-away-from-home, Hermione finally plucked up the courage to ask them. "Hey, you guys, what are quidditch tryouts like?"

"They're pretty intense." Harry commented nonchalantly. "Wood takes his team pretty seriously."

"Yeah, I'm kinda worried," Ron commented. "I'm going to try out this year, and from what Harry's said, I'm in for one rough night."

"Oh…" This made Hermione nervous. What would she do? This might be too much…No! I will not give up now. "So I was thinking of trying out this year, too."

"Hahaha, nice one Hermione."

"Yeah." Ron laughed too. "You hate quidditch!"

"No, I don't. You guys just assume that I do."

"Hermione," Harry tried to reason with her, "you've never played before. Quidditch isn't just some game you can learn by reading a book. It takes a lot of practice."

"Yeah, plus, you aren't tough enough. It's a manly game, leave it to us men."

"What about Angelina or Katie? Heck, even Ginny plays!" Hermione was starting to get annoyed. How could they be so uncaring?

"No offense, but they're tough girls. You just…aren't."

She had enough. She suddenly stood up and opened the compartment door. "Thanks for the support, you guys. Now I know why you are my best friends." Her words dripped with sarcasm. With that, she walked out and slammed the door.

"What's gotten in to her?"

"I don't know, but I'm sure she'll get over it, Ron."

Hermione was in the girl's bathroom, crying yet again. She didn't even want to go to the feast. It seemed like she was in here a lot the past few years. How can they be so insensitive? I can't believe this! Now, she had to figure out a way to prove to them that she can play. But how? Then a brilliant idea floated into her head. I have to get to Professor Dumbledore!

As she ran to towards the gargoyle, she chuckled to herself.

"If you can't join 'em, beat 'em…"