The Best Year

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or anything you recognise.

Author's Note: To the person who highlighted that the summary and title of the fanfic is dodge, do you have any idea what I could possibly change it to? I just really wanted to post the first chapter when initially writing it, so I just titled it as anything, and I guess it just stuck? Every time I try to come up with a new title; I keep hitting the cliques. Feel free to review any other names you may possibly think of! Many thanks :)

Chapter still UNDER CONSTRUCTION; need to do minute edits.

Happy Reading!

Chapter Eight: The Slaughtering of the Snake

Sunday, October 18th

"All our blood, sweat and tears, have all added up to this moment. The opening match. Today, we are going to defeat Slytherin, and this will set the tune for the rest of the year. Understand?" said Oliver.

"Yes Oliver." we chorused.

"Actually, it's the bloody, sweat and tears that you made us share Oliver." said Alecia.

"Bloody hell, Oliver, you have had us getting up from the crack of dawn for the last month." added Angelina.

"True." said Oliver. "But I assure you that your abilities have improved tremendously. We want the Cup again this year."

"You want the cup again this year." said Fred and George in unison.

"We all do." I said. "As much as we all hate Wood's crazy training regime... Let's be honest, who doesn't want to parade the Cup in front of the Slytherin team, second year running."

"Thank you Alex." said Wood. "Now do we need to go through our positions and tactics, once more or are we right?"

"We're fine." said Katie. "I just want to get out there and fly."

"Can't wait to wipe those snarky looks of those Slytherins." said Angelina.

"You'll be okay here Alex?" asked Wood. "There is the whistle for us to get onto the pitch."

"I'll be fine." I said. "Harry is more then capable of flying against the Malfoy boy. I'm just itching to fly against Diggory. I can't wait a month!"

"Are you sure, you'll be okay? I can take you up to the grandstand to the teachers booth..." said Oliver.

"Oliver I'll be fine." I said, as he walked up to me.

"Do I get a good luck -" asked Oliver. Before he could finish his sentence, my lips met his. The kiss was slow and sweet, nothing too passionate and rushed. Unfortunately it was interrupted by Madam Hooch walking into the Gryffindor change rooms.

"Wood! Get your players on the field this instant!" she barked.

"Yes Madam Hooch." he replied. "Come on team! Thanks for that Alex."

"Not a problem. Now go get them." I said. "I'll be watching."

I watched my team march onto the Quidditch pitch, flaunting their scarlett and golden robes. They quickly mounted their brooms, and flew into their positions. Oliver unenthusiastically shook hands with Marcus Flint. Even from two hundred and fifty feet away, I could feel the tension. Fred and George were on either side of Oliver, with Angelina, Alecia and Katie in the second row. Harry was hovering about fifty meters above everyone else, which was a smart thing to do. The Snitch, when released, naturally wants to get away as quickly as possible, and the best way to do that, is go upwards. According to Angelina, Slytherin versus Gryffindor matches were always quite entertaining. Partly because of the rivalry between the houses, made the match just a touch dirtier, the around reason was because Lee Jordan commentated on it. Lee Jordan was a Gryffindor student, in Fred and George's year. The twins and he were quite good friends. Lee was rather tall, with dark shin and features. Apparently he was a great commentator, but his comments sometimes were a little out of line. Professor McGonagall had to keep a firm grip on Lee, for his commentary to be placed purely on Quidditch.

"Welcome to Quidditch! I'm your commentator, Lee Jordan! The Quidditch pitch has three goals at each end. The Chasers throw the Quaffle and try to put it through the hoops to score. Watch out for the Bludgers! These are charmed balls that can knock you off your broomstick! Two Beaters on each team try to keep them away. Remember, when the Snitch appears, it releases Speed Rings that will help the Seeker fly faster." he said through the microphone. "Now if the lovely Madam Hooch is ready, we can begin the game."

"On the count of three ladies and gentlemen." said Madam Hooch. "THREE!...TWO!...ONE."

Madam Hooch blew he whistle, and simultaneously three the Quaffle up in the air, only to be caught by Graham Montague, a chaser in my year on the Slytherin team. Wood wouldn't be very happy about that. Moments later, the Bludgers came whizzing from their confinement. Fred and George were on their tails in on time. Only for a split second, I saw a glimmer of light, fly past Draco's left ear. Montague swiftly passed the Quaffle to Pucey, and Pucey to Flint. Seemed like Gryffindor wasn't the only team to be working on Quidditch in the holidays. Then again, I couldn't tell since I had never seen either team in action. Flint zipped past Angelina and Katie, who tried in intercept him once more, front on, before Flint could have a go at shooting. Flint elbowed Katie and dodged Angelina. I knew she could have easily gotten that, but it was obvious that she wasn't yet fully in the game. Oliver was at the hoops, hovering a little above them. Another technique he said he would implement. The idea was that one usually travels faster when diving, in comparison to flying straight, so Wood said that it was a better idea to catch the Quaffle at an angle. It made sense, this technique of his, but only for the Keeper. I could see Pucey slowly tailing Flint, it was obvious what was happening. Flint was going to pass back to Pucey, to allow him to shoot to the goal furthest away from Wood. Thank goodness that Oliver had also spotted this arrangement. Moments later, the Quaffle was in Oliver's hands. The crowd cheered, as Oliver passed the Quaffle off to Alecia.

"Go Gryffindor! That was a spectacular save by Gryffindor's own Captain, Oliver Wood! Who is currently dating the gorgeous sister of Harry Potter. I'm sure that if he keeps playing like he'll get-" said Lee, only to be cut off by Professor McGongall.

"LEE! STOP WITH THE INAPPROPRIATE COMMENTARY!"

I felt my cheeks flair up. I was glad that I was in the shadows of the grand stands, but I knew that Fred and George weren't going allow me to live it down.

"Well Gryffindor is in possession in the Quaffle, and are not letting it go! Bell completely enliates the tackle by Flint!" said Lee.

He was a real hoot, and was obviously finding it difficult to not take sides. Katie held possession of the Quaffle, suddenly passing it to Angelina, who passed it back to Katie, who threw it at Alecia. Although Alecia was a little bit of a very stereotyped girl, with her hair perfectly coiffed, and nails always flawless; on the pitch she was deadly. Being the smallest out of Gryffindor's three Chasers, she proved to be the speediest, in the air, dodging and craftily placing the Quaffle in between the big boned Slytherins. She quickly approached the hoops, and Adam was no where in sight. He too had to have a plan. A Keeper doesn't usually keep the hoops unguarded. That's when I saw it, a Bludger was coming towards one of the Slytherin Beater's- within seconds it was going to hit Alecia. She had to scored and get out of there. DONG! The Quaffle, passed the hoop, moments later, Adam appeared.

"ALECIA LOOK OUT!" he bellowed.

She spun around, only to come face to face with the Bludger sent for her by Peregrine Derrick, another seventh year Slytherin. Moments later, I saw her falling to the ground. About a meter from impacting the sand surface of the pitch, I think Adam caught her. I couldn't really tell from the distance. I was standing at. The Gryffindor goals were on the other side of the field. I saw scarlett and gold rush over to where Alecia had fallen, Madam Hooch close behind. I hoped Alecia was okay, considering how close the Bludger was when it impacted her, it had to be a very hard impact. That was real dirty play from the Slytherin team. Jordan too had thoughts about what had happened.

"So - after that obvious and disgusting bit of cheating -"

"Jordan!" growled Professor McGonagall.

"I mean after that open and revolting foul -"

"Jordan, I'm warning you -"

"All right, all right. Derrick nearly kills the Gryffindor Chaser, which could happen to anyone, I'm sure, so a penalty to Gryffindor, taken by Spinnet, who puts it away, no trouble, and we continue play, Gryffindor still in possession."

"Madam Hooch has just called time out!" said Professor McGongall.

"Right, time out! Cease the game!" called Lee.

Fred and George carried Alecia off the pitch, towards a ground the had formed around one of the Pitch entrances. I was one of the Gryffindor members leave to team, and mount his broom. I believed it was Oliver. I saw him fly towards me. Seconds later, I could see him clearly.

"Oliver, is Alecia okay?" I asked.

"She got the Bludger to the shoulder." called Oliver, as he landed next to me. "Thing is, we're down a player."

"Yes..." I said. "We've got heaps on back up from Try Outs..."

"They haven't gone through proper training." said Oliver, catching his breath. "Grab your broom. You're filling in for Alecia."

"No, no way." I said. "Not a chance."

"Alex, please?" asked Oliver.

"No." I replied.

"As team Captain, you need to do as I say." he said.

"As your girl friend." I retorted. "I do not."

"Alex, please." he said, his hands snaking around my waist. "The team needs you."

"Me equals Seeker. I chase around a little golden ball that is very fast and has a mind of it's own. Alecia equals Chaser. She throws around big red ball trying to score. Seeker doesn't equate to Chaser. Especially that Seeker has no idea what Chaser does." I said.

"You just re alliterated for a two year old, the difference between a Chaser and a Seeker, highlighting what each of them do. So you know what you're doing. I've seen you throw around a Quaffle with the girls before, and that's all you have to do today." said Oliver. "Please?"

"Fine." I said.

"Thank you." he replied, leaning in for a kiss.

"You're delusional if you think you're getting a smooch from me now." I said, gently shoving him away. "If I die this match, it will be on you conscience"

"Don't be silly Alex, you won't die." he said. "Here is Alecia's broom."

"Damn it! I didn't bring my broomstick from the castle. Thinking I didn't have to play." I said, taking Alecia's Silver Arrow. "Haven't ridden on one of these before. I don't play Chaser nor have I used an Arrow before. This is the perfect ingredients for a terrible disaster."

"Honestly, Alex, you're the best hope we've got after Alecia." said Oliver. "You'll be fine. Now lets go, we're kicking off again in about thirty seconds."

"Aye Aye Captain." I said sarcastically.

I mounted the silver painted piece of wood. Not that I would ever tell Alecia this, but her broomstick was out dated, slow and unsteady. In the scheme of things, it probably sat just under Cedric's broomstick. It was the series of broom stick made by Leonard Jewkens, right before the more popular Cleansweep's came out. I was probably under crediting the broom, but I dearly loved my Firebolt, so anything but it, had not value in my eyes. Alecia called it vintage, I called it crap.

I flew over to Angelina and Katie; the two of them just nodded at me when I made eye contact with them. They we're obviously very peeved with what the Slytherin team had done, and now wanted to avenge Alecia. That's what she wanted too.

"None of this business any more." said Madam Hooch. "Do you understand? I want a nice clean game... From all of you. Once again, on the count of three. THREE... TWO... ONE!"

"And the Quaffle is taken immediately by Angelina Johnson — what an amazing Chaser that girl is, and rather attractive too—" said Lee.

"JORDAN!" Yelled the Professor.

"Sorry, Professor." said Lee. "Alecia's replacement is none other then Alexandra Potter. Usually playing Seeker, something we have not yet seen – I know we are all anxiously waiting to see how she will fill out the Chaser position."

"Potter, tail Johnson, she'll pass it to you, and you pass it to me. We won't make you shoot, as long as you keep the position of the middle player." said Katie, flying up next to me.

"Sure thing." I said.

"If you don't know what to do, just pass it to one of us the moment you get it." said Katie. "We'll take care of the rest."

"Okay." I said, doing as I was told.

I caught the Quaffle that was thrown to me by Johnson. Holding it for a few moments, I scanned the pitch for Katie. URMGH! Flint flew right into me, nearly causing me to drop the Quaffle. I finally saw Katie out of the corner of my eyes. With all my strength, I threw the Quaffle. Thankfully, none of the Slytherin team had intercepted it. I continued to follow Johnson as we closed in on the hoops. Katie threw the Quaffle back at me, Pucey had a grab at it, but I quickly accelerated and caught it. It didn't mean that he was giving up through, he kept trying to push it out of my hands. In my peripheral vision, I saw another Slytherin tail me. I had to get rid of the Quaffle – and quick. I took the Quaffle into one hand and threw it at Angelina, praying that it didn't get intercepted. I was in luck. She caught it, using the end of her broom to knock Pucey out of his tracks.

A little while later, after some vigorous two and throw action between Gryffindor and Slytherin, Jordan finally commented on Harry's flying.

"Look at that Firebolt go! Potter's really putting it through its paces now. See it turn - Malfoy's Nimbus is just no match for it – even if it is a two thousand and one. The Firebolt's precision-balance is really noticeable in these long-"

"JORDAN! ARE YOU BEING PAID TO ADVERTISE FIREBOLTS? GET ON WITH THE COMMENTARY!"

That means that Harry was on the trail of the Golden Snitch. At last. I didn't think I could take much longer of the Arrow or playing Chaser. Each time I had possession of the Quaffle, a heap of adrenaline raced through me. It wasn't the good type either. It was the flight out of the fight and flight sort. I never played the position of Chaser, and I knew that I was failing terribly. At least Angelina and Katie were brilliant, they passed quite a few spectacular goals past Adam. Oliver only let in one, and scolded himself for the next fifteen minutes. Fred and George looked as though they were having fun, attempting to knock Slytherins of their broomsticks. They landed a good solid Bludger on Montauge, it hit his hip, and the sickening crack informed us that it was broken. It stopped him for a few moments, and then it was as though just shrugged off the pain and continued playing. Unbelievable. If that was I, or anyone else on the team, we would have been out of the sky for sure. I guess his ginormous size was to thank for it. All of the Slytherin Quidditch players were in their last year school; all except Draco Malfoy. Whoever was going to be appointed Captain next year, would have a tough time collecting a whole new team. At least with us Gryffindors, we had a little bit of a mix. I was quite sure that applied to Cedric's and Roger's teams too.

"Harry Potter has caught the Snitch. This gains Gryffindor one hundred and fifty points. Totals are as follows. Slytherin – the points. Gryffindor, with a whooping hundred and seventy points. Gryffindor wins!"

The crowd cheered, as Harry mercilessly shook the Snitch around in his hand, allowing it to fly a metre or so, before recapturing it again. Before I knew it, I was being dragged by Fred and George towards Harry, for a team huddle.

"Good work Potter!" said Oliver.

"Great catch Harry." said Angelina. "We won thanks to you."

"Good catch Haz." I said, embracing him into a hug. "Congratulations. Couldn't have done it better myself. I know Dad would be proud."

"Thank Alex, it means a lot." he said.

"PARTY IN THE GRYFFINDOR COMMON ROOM TONIGHT!" yelled Fred and George in unison.

The crowd continued to cheer, as the seven of us retreated back to the Gryffindor change rooms. Fred and George held Harry on their shoulders, Angelina and Katie were laughing and jeering as though they were mad, and Oliver had the biggest grin plastered across his handsome features.

"Good work Alex." he said, his arm meeting my waist.

"I'm still mad at you." I replied, crossing my arms over my chest.

"You played brilliantly." His soft lips placed a kiss to my temple.

"It was pathetic Wood and don't try and tell me otherwise." I replied, increasing my step.

"Alex, don't be like that." he said, holding me back.

"Never again Oliver. I don't care if it happens again, never ever again. I know you wouldn't have gotten Harry to play Chaser, so I think I deserve the same treatment." I snapped.

"Alexandra Potter, I promise that I'll never again force you into playing Chaser, no matter what happens." he said.

"Promise?" I asked.

"Promise." he replied.

I leaned up and kissed him on the cheek. Before I had the chance to go change, his lips captured mine. I quite liked kissing Oliver. Our kissing was never too full on, or passionate, or painful. It was just always sweet and sincere. I didn't know if that was a good thing, or not, but I liked it. Then again, Oliver and I haven't had a heated moment. For the time being, Oliver treated me well, and respected me. That's all I wanted.

"Get a room!" called Fred.

"There are still people who are underaged here!" added George.

I just poked out my tongue, and walked off to the girls change rooms. Angelina was already dressed, and Katie was brushing her hair out.

"Good work today Alex." said Katie.

"Thanks. I personally thought it was terrible, but thanks never the less." I replied.

"It was honestly not too bad." said Angelina. "Like Oliver said, you were our best shot. We really need to get onto training up the try out kids."

"That's what I highlighted to Oliver." I said. "I much prefer to fly around after a tiny winged golden ball."

"It was a little unfair of Oliver demanding for you to play a position so out of your comfort zone." said Katie.

"At least it was Chaser, and not Beater or Keeper." I replied. "That would have been ever worse. I have so much more respect now for your positions. Before today, I haven't realised how difficult Chaser really is."

"I'll take that as a compliment." said Angelina, pulling on her overcoat. "Don't worry, most people are like that."

"I think we should go visit Alecia." said Katie. "Before the celebrations."

"I reckon Pomfrey would have fixed her up by now." said Angelina

"Sure, I'll meet you up there. I'll only be a moment." I said.

"You know where the Hospital Wing is, right?" asked Angelina.

"I think so." I replied. "If not, I'm sure someone will tell me, if I ask."

"Are you sure you don't want us to wait?" asked Katie.

"No, no go ahead, I'll be fine." I said, pulling off my sweat drenched Quidditch jumper.

"Okay, see you in a bit." said Angelina.

"Bye." I replied.

I could have easily changed in a few moments, but I just wanted a little bot of time to myself. Usually after playing Quidditch, I wanted a moment to myself, just to clear my head, and come down from the adrenaline rush. Unfortunately, my thoughts were quickly interrupted.

"Knock Knock." said a familiar voice from behind me. Oliver.

"Hey." I replied, as I turned around. There stood over, in plain jeans and a lovely tight canary yellow and royal blue Puddlemere United jersey. Of course he was wearing something Quidditch related, the amount of different jerseys he owned was ridiculous. His well toned chest was evident in the woolly fabric. I didn't think people gave Oliver enough credit. All I ever heard about was the hotness of Cedric, but Oliver wasn't half bad looking too.

"Did I catch you in a bad moment?" he asked, winking.

"No, no, of course one wouldn't change in the girls change rooms." I replied.

"Really?" he asked, winking cheekily. "Never knew change rooms are actually for changing."

"Astonishing really." I said, rolling my eyes. "Out! I need to strip."

"Can't I do it for you?" he asked.

"Olliiiveeerrrrrr..." I said, stringing out his name. "No! Out!"

"Please?" he said, attempting to pull a cute face.

"I feel disgusting, sweaty and just gross." I said. "Let me freshen up, and then you can do anything you want with me tonight."

"Oh really?" he asked.

"Really." I replied. "Just turn around."

"Sure." said Oliver, doing as he was told. "I think Angelina might have mentioned this, but the team is going up to see Alecia."

"Yeah." I replied. "I told Katie and Angie that I'd meet them up at the hospital wing."

I pulled on my skin tight scarlet jeans. Fleur had chosen out some outfits for me to wear which were in fashion according to her. Preferably, after a Quidditch match, I liked to put on a hoodie, runners and tights. Not in Fleur's book. I had a nice pair of cadet boots, real leather (of course Fleur purchased them for me – I wouldn't have known the difference), which I tucked my jeans into. I pulled on the black button up shirt, and on top of it, a completely black varsity styled jacket. Lastly, I opened the little satchel where Fleur placed all the correlating jewellery. It was nice of Fleur to put so much effort into my image, bit it just wasn't me. Never the less, I applied my make up and allowed my hair to stay naturally wavy, as I tied a hair band around it. I probably didn't meet Fleur's standards, but hers were are lot higher then that of an average Hogwarts girl.

"Ready yet?" asked Oliver.

"Yep. Just packing my Quidditch gear." I said, flicking my wand. My dirty Quidditch gear flew to the basket of laundry. I gripped my Firebolt, and rested it over my shoulder. No way was I going to leave it unattended. My love for my Firebolt was like Fleur's love of clothes. Evidently, she and I didn't see eye to eye in that respect.

Oliver and I finally reached the Hospital Wing, after about twenty minutes. I suggested flying, since I had my Firebolt at hand, but he said that walking was more romantic. I didn't see how, but each to their own. It was evident where Alecia was, due to the whole Quidditch team, being huddled around her. I run up to them, the moment I saw Angelina.

"How is she?" I asked.

"I'm fine thank you Alex." said Alecia weakly. "When I get out of here, Derrick is going to get it."

"Now, now Alecia." said Oliver. "I'm sure Madam Hooch and Snape will be able to handle is inappropriate actions, you wouldn't want to do anything to get yourself kicked off the team."

"Oliver Wood." said Alecia sharply. "Here I am, after getting a Bludger to the head, and all you care about is stupid Quidditch."

"It's not that, it's just you're a brilliant player, and the last thing we'd want as a team, is to loose you." said Oliver. That was a nice save. Even with Alecia in such a state, she could probably jinx him.

"How are you feeling anyway?" I asked, attempting to break the tension. "Did Madam Pomfrey mend your bones?"

"Yeah, she's great at that." said Alecia. "She mended them in a heartbeat. Apparently I need to stay a night though, since she said I might get a concussion or something. Dunno."

"That means you'll - " began Fred. Angelina trod on his toes, before he could finish the sentence.

"I'll what?" snapped Alecia.

"Oh nothing..." trailed off Fred.

"Tell me! Angelina, Katie what is he talking about?" she asked.

"We're just throwing a little party." said Katie unsurely. Alecia's features instantaneously turned from calm, to very infuriated within seconds.

"WHAT? WITHOUT ME?" She yelled. "MADAM POMFREY, I'M FEELING FINE! I WANT TO GET OUT OF HERE … NOW!"

"What's all the racket, child?" asked Madam Pomfrey, her head popping up from behind the curtain.

"Gryffindor won the game today." said Alecia. "They are having a party. I need to go."

"Now, now." said Madam Pomfrey. "Do you really think that's the best idea. You were saying yourself about the Bludger, and how painful it was."

"But Madam Pomfrey, you worked your magic, and now I'm all better." said Alecia.

"Don't be silly child." said Madam Pomfrey. "You simply can't go. You need to rest."

"But I want to go to the celebrations!" she said, her voice raising.

"Okay, maybe in a couple of hours." said Madam Pomfrey, "For now, drink some of this, it'll stop the swelling."

Madam Pomfrey handed her a glass goblet, with a swirling silver liquid. Adam would have to clarify it for me, but I was pretty sure what Madam Pomfrey was giving her was sleeping draught. It was obvious that Alecia really did think that the draught was for the swelling. I was going to say something, but there was nothing better then a calm Alecia.

"Thank you Madam Pomfrey." said Alecia. After a few moments, after the potion touched her lips, Alecia's eyes began to close. She rubbed them, as she placed the potion back on top of the bed side table. "I'm a little tired guys. I think I'm going to have a nap. Come here an hour b..bbb..bb-"

"That'll keep her down for the night." said Madam Pomfrey. "I don't usually use such methods of sedation, but it was obvious that Miss Spinnet wasn't backing out of her ludicrous idea to go to the Gryffindor party. I heard that Gryffindor won, congratulations."

"Thank you Madam Pomfrey." said Oliver, immediately taking the authoritative position. "It was a good match for us."

"Good luck for the rest of the season." she said, smiling. "Now off you go. Alecia will be fine for the night. I can assure you that."

"Thank you Madam Pomfrey." said Angelina. "We will be back tomorrow morning to bring her some food from tonight. Hopefully she eon't be too annoyed."

"Let's hope so indeed." said Madam Pomfrey, returning to her office.

"Whose hungry?" asked George. "I certainly am. Let's hit the Great Hall for lunch. So many things to prepare."

"You'll love Gryffindor House parties." said Katie. "They are great. The whole house chips in. There's music, games, alcohol and food. We usually skip dinner."

"Sounds like fun." I said, following my teammates out of the Hospital Wing. Cedric was standing in the entrance door way to the Hospital Wing, holding what seemed to be a letter, with a large real seal upon it.

"Hey Alex, do you have a moment?" asked Cedric. "Congratulations Oliver."

"Thanks Diggory." said Oliver, "Although I have to say, that we'll score even better against you in the next match. Why do you want to talk to Alexandra anyway?"

"I don't believe that I need to explain myself to you Wood." said Cedric harshly. "But if you are so interested, it's in regards to Head captains business, something you would know nothing about."

"Whatever." said Oliver. "Want me to wait for you Alex?"

"Don't worry Oliver, I'm fine. This can take a while." I replied, as I watched my team walk away. "Sorry about that Cedric, Oliver is just really determined to win. Son't take it personally."

"Yeah, I know. He used to be normal to me, before we both got appointed Captain, Then he completely changed his tune, glaring when we made eye contact, jinxing my things in class." said Cedric.

"Yeah, a little immature really." I said. "I don't think he really means it. So what did you want to talk to me about?"

"This letter is from Dumbledore." said Cedric. "It's addressed to the both of us, so I didn't want to open it without you."

"Don't be silly Cedric, you really could have opened it." I replied. "Next time, don't wait for me."

"If you insist." said Cedric, opening the letter.

"Dear Miss Potter, and Mr Diggory,

Congratulations once again, on making it into the Triwizard Tournament, regardless of circumstances. We are still trying to determine why and how both your names were drawn out of the Goblet of Fire.

I am writing to you, to inform you, about a particular even that happens before any of the three tasks take place; The Weighing of the Wands. Naturally, I presume the two of you know what this event entails, if not, I will describe it briefly.

Wand Weighing is to ensure that your wands are fully functional, and appropriate to be used in the Tournament. They are your most important tool for the tasks ahead, so it is vital for them to be checked.

Checking of the wands will occur on Monday, 2nd of November. I understand that this is in the middle of an assessment black, but I assure you that it will take only a moment.

The Wand Weighing will be officiated by Mr. Ollivander. I am sure that the two of you have crossed paths with him at least once. Please be prompt to the Trophy Room around Lunch.

I do hope you are enjoying school.

Congratulations Alexandra, on your Chaser abilities.

Professor Dumbledore

(Hogwarts Headmaster)"

"I've read about the Weighing of the Wands." I said. "I completely forgot about it though."

"Seems good." said Cedric. "As long as neither of us have an exam at that time. Good work on playing Chaser by the way."

"People need to stop congratulating me!" I said, a little more meanly then I intended it to be. "I hated playing chaser – Hated it."

"Sorry." said Cedric. "Just trying to compliment your flying skills."

"Sorry, I should have snapped." I said. "At least I got some air time. Our game isn't for another month or so."

"I've got a game against Ravenclaw." said Cedric, his cheeks tinging slight pink. "Next weekend."

"Aww Cedie." I said. "Is Cedric going to fly against his girl friend?"

"She's not my girl friend." said Cedric.

"She will be." I said, winking.

"Yeah." he said, breaking eye contact. "You hungry?"

"Not really, but if you are, I'll happily join you in the great hall." I said.

"Okay, sure." he replied.

"Let's go then, lead the way." I said. "Honestly no idea how to get back from the Hospital Wing."

"This way." he replied.

When we entered the Great Hall, we were met by a sea of scarlett. I supposed due to Gryffindor's win, everything was with the Gryffindor theme. Everyone who sat at the Gryffindor table, had at least one article of clothing that was either scarlett or gold. The walls were usually line with many banners, with the Hogwarts emblem upon them, today they were completely different; they all had the Gryffindor lion projected upon them. Even the teachers table had matching cloths. The Gryffindor table was by far the loudest, chatting and laughing – they were very pleased with the win. In contrast, Slytherins all sat quietly, shooting us glares if we made eye contact with them. The Slytherin Quidditch team sat huddled at the very front, all except for Derrick. I noticed that Professor Dumbledore and Professor Snape were no where in sight; probably attending to Derrick's behaviours on the pitch today. Personally, I didn't think he actually did anything wrong. The purpose for the Beater's is to knock people of their broomsticks using clubs, and projecting Bludgers. It wasn't as though Derrick had hexed Alecia off her broomstick, he just landed a very hard shot. I didn't think he actually deserved punishment, Quidditch in the real world was a whole lot dirtier.

There was one thing for certain, Angelina wasn't kidding when she said that Gryffindor parties were amazing. Fred and George really had outdone themselves. Groups of students sat around playing Exploding Snap, others danced around at the centre of the common room, listening to the boom box hidden somewhere in the corner, blasting out newest hits from The Weird Sisters. I sat in Oliver's lap, in one of the arm chairs next to the fire place. It was the first time I had entered the Gryffindor Common Room. It was a nice cozy and warm area, although I did still prefer Cedric's and my own Quarters better. I didn't think I would enjoy sharing an area with goodness knew how many other students.

"Enjoying yourself?" asked Oliver.

"Very much so." I said, resting my head against his chest. "I am a little tired though."

"Do you want me to escort you back to your dorm?" he asked.

"No, I'll be fine." I said. "I much rather spend the night with you. Cedric probably has some company in the Quarters anyway. If it's female, I really don't want to know."

"Which reminds me," began Oliver. "What did Cedric want to talk to you about earlier today?"

"Just about the Triwizard Tournament." I replied. "We received a letter from Dumbledore."

"What about?" asked Oliver.

"Just about an event we have to attend. It's called the Weighing of the Wands. It's to make sure our wands are working properly, since it's the only piece of equipment we are allowed to use in the Tournament."

"Ah okay." said Oliver.

"Do you want to go for a walk around the Black Lake?" I asked. "How romantic, sitting out under the stars in each others arms."

"Er, we can't it's already well past eight. If we get caught, we are done for." said Oliver.

"Please..." I asked, kissing his neck softly.

"Alex we can't. They can't suspend me from my post as Captain, but the last thing I want is for you to be kicked off the team for breaking the rules." said Oliver. I couldn't believe him, I was about to loose my nerve, but we were in the presence of most of the Gryffindor house, and I didn't want to cause a scene.

"Fine then." I said, climbing off him.

"Alex, please don't be mad." he said, his eyebrows furrowing. "I don't want to get either of us into trouble."

"Don't worry Oliver. I'm fine." I replied. I hated it when the Beauxbatons' girls said "I'm fine." "I'm fine" translated to the exact opposite. It was an annoying thing they did, to guilt trip you into doing what you wanted. If you didn't give in, they would spread rumours about you. Usually rather nasty ones too. I wasn't like that, but I had the choice of either causing a scene with Oliver, or pretending I was okay. Pretending I was okay, would hurt him less in the long run.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

"Yeah, like I mentioned a few minutes ago." I replied. "I'm just tired."

"What happened to you not wanting to know about Diggory's lady company?" asked Oliver.

"I'll manage." I said, heading towards the exit of the Common Room. "I'll see you later Oliver."

Without another word, I turned away and climbed through the portrait hole. Even though I was a little geographically challenged, I was at Hogwarts long enough to know how to get back to the Quarters. I didn't know what got me so annoyed with Oliver, I didn't usually loose my temper like that. It's not like he did anything wrong, he just didn't want to get into trouble which was fair enough. I whispered the new password of Flibbertigibbet to the hippogriff, and he let me into the Quarters.

"You've been out late." said Cedric. I turned around to see him sprawled across the large sofa which stood a few feet away from the blazing fire place. Cedric looked at me for a few moments, before asking. "Are alright?... You seem ...annoyed?"

"I'm fine." I snapped.

"Now, now Alex, don't give me that." He said, getting up into a sitting position. "I may not know everything there is to know about women, but even I know that the phrase means the complete opposite."

"Oliver peeved me off." I said.

"What did he do?" asked Cedric.

"He didn't want to go around the Black Lake with me for a romantic stroll." I said. "Now before you say anything, I now it's silly. But I feel like doing something a little rebellious. Apart from Quidditch, I've been inside all day, and just really need some fresh air."

"It's not silly." said Cedric. "I like to get out of the castle too, when I can. Now does Oliver know you're irritated with him?"

"I don't know. He didn't question the "I'm fine" so I guess he doesn't. He just said that he didn't want me kicked of the Quidditch team so we couldn't go in case of getting caught." I said.

"Bloody hell." said Cedric. "He has taken one too many Bludgers to the head. Now go change."

"What?" I asked in confusion.

"Go change. We're going to go around the Black Lake." said Cedric. "Only if you want to of course."

"Of course!" I said. "I'll be right back."

I ran up to stairs to my room, and instantaneously pulled off my dress and heels that I wore to the Gryffindor celebrations. I pulled out a pair of runners, tights, a scarf, jumper and beanie. They weren't my nicest articles of clothing, but they definitely were cozy. With a swish of my wand, I charmed them onto myself. Checking the time, the watch had just struck twelve. I didn't think we would run into anyone, so I was safe wearing my fat clothes. I was so tired, and just craving some fresh air, so I didn't care what I looked like, even in front of Cedric. I usually studied until about ten o'clock each night, in my fat clothes anyway, and Cedric didn't seem to mind.

"Ready Alex?" asked Cedric.

"Yep." I said.

"Well isn't this a sight." said Cedric. "Famous Alex Potter, with no designer labels on."

"Oh shuuddup." I said, hitting him playfully.

"You know I'm only joking." said Cedric. "As long as you are warm."

"Very much so." I replied. I noticed that he had my Firebolt and his broomstick, one in each hand. "What are you doing with our broomsticks?"

"How else do you think we are going to get to the Black Lake?" he asked, as though it was obvious.

"Urm...walk?" I suggested.

"At this time of night?" he asked, approaching the window, and gently opening it. "It'd take us forever."

"What are you doing with the window?" I asked unsurely.

"How else do you think we are going to exit the castle with as little detection as possible?" asked Cedric.

"No way am I jumping out the window." I said, as I quickly did the maths.

"I've always done it." said Cedric. "Now is easier then ever, since no teachers will come looking for us at this time of night."

"Are you serious?" I asked.

"As a heart attack." he said. "Unless you want to walk..."

"I only suggested it because apparently it's more romantic.. and a lot safer!" I said.

"I suppose Wood wouldn't ever do this?" said Cedric. "Do you trust me?"

"Yes of course." I replied automatically. "Why?"

"Here, leave your Firebolt in the Quarters." said Cedric. "If you're afraid of jumping out the window witch a magical flying stick, then you can ride with me."

"Funny you are Diggory." I said, rolling my eyes. "Are you sure you know what you're doing?"

"Of course." he replied. "As long as we avoid windows, we'll be fine."

"Ok-ay." I said, climbing onto the broomstick behind him.

"Hold on, unless you really do want to fall out the window unassisted." said Cedric.

"How onto what?" I asked.

"Me." he replied.

"Are you sure?" I asked once again.

"Alex, just grab my waist." he said. I unsurely wrapped my arms around his waist, and instantly felt comfort. Even with the cool air flowing through the opened window, he felt warm. I rested my head across his back, absorbing as much heat as possible.

"If we die tonight, this is what I want written on our graves. Alexandra Lily Potter and Cedric Diggory. R.I.P died on the eighteenth of October. Triwizard Champions in the making. Cause of death: Jumping out a window." I said. Cedric just chuckled.

"Brace yourself for a little bit of an adrenaline rush." said Cedric. "It's a bit of a -" Cedric didn't even finish his sentence, before he propelled us out the window. I could feel my stomach in my throat, we were accelerating to the ground so greatly, I wasn't even able to scream. I held onto Cedric, to terribly tight, I was surprised he could still breathe. About ten feet from the ground, he dipped and lowed down his speed tremendously. "Drop."

"Cedric Diggory!" I yelled. "You bastard. Don't do that ever again! I almost died!"

"That was fun." he said. "Sorry, I over dramatised it a little, just to see your reaction."

"Fun? FUN!" I yelled. "THAT WAS NOT FUN."

"Keep your voice down Alex," said Cedric, picking up some height as he directed to broomstick towards the Black Lake. "You wouldn't want to get us caught and then be thrown off the Quidditch team."

"Funny you are Diggory." I said. "Okay, maybe that was a little fun."

"See, I told you so." said Cedric. "You wouldn't have gotten the rush if I told you what was going to happen. Now here we are."

"I can't believe I just escaped Hogwarts by jumping through a window with the Head Boy to go for a late night stroll around the Lake." I said. "I don't think Mr. Diggory would want to hear about this."

"You're probably right. It's worth it though, it's beautiful night tonight." said Cedric, leaning against the old oak tree. "Do you want to have a seat, or actually walk."

"I don'd mind sitting." I said, taking a seat next to Cedric.

"Well at least Wood is happy about the result today." said Cedric.

"Yeah, we slaughtered them. It was the slaughtering of the snake that we hoped for." I replied. "I don't mean to be rude, but I don't want to talk about Oliver. Especially not when I'm annoying at him."

"Of course." said Cedric. "It's understandable."

"Thanks." I replied. "At least when I'm with you, I'm not grilled about every single part of my life. I was asked by everyone on my Quidditch team about what you needed to talk to me about."

"Yeah. Sorry about that, I should have caught you at a later time." said Cedric. "Whenever I mention you, everyone always asks me questions too."

"Don't be silly. It's not your fault." I said. "I can't believe that some people have that kind of nerve though."

"You're shivering Alex." said Cedric, pulling me closer to him. "At least this way we'll generate more body heat."

"Ah yeah..." I said, I could feel myself flaring up. I was so grateful that is was so dark. "I guess we can."

It was about two thirty, when Cedric and returned to the Quarters. Neither of us had realised how much time had passed. Turned out that Cedric was really into his Astronomy, and pointed out different constellations in the sky. We hypothesised about the Triwiard Tournament, and shared information on it, that we had come across. It felt nice just being myself around Cedric. It was obvious that nothing romantic was ever going to happen, so that eliminated any awkwardness that could have potentially ruined our friendship. Cedric was ridiculously attractive though, so it saddened me that the romantic root was strictly out of bounds. There wasn't one occasion where I just really wanted to kiss him, but I has to keep telling myself; "Cho. Cho. Cho Chang. Cedric likes Cho." Tomorrow was a school day, and the two of us were going to be terribly tired, but the late night talk was worth it, I just hoped that Cedric felt the same

As usual, Lots of Love; onefrozenheart

I've gotten HEAPS of hits on this fanfic, which means the world- But please don't forget to...

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PS: I'm really tempted to start another Cedric Diggory fanfic, with a slight twist to it. It'd be like the AU to this one, with a different OC, someone from Slytherin perhaps?

LET ME KNOW if you think I should start another.

Please remember I'm in my final year of high school, but everyone needs an outlet- and this is mine. :)