Toyotomi landed gracefully onto the hallowed decks of the HMS Merlin Quidditch ground for the first time in four years. It had not seemed to change much in those years, apart from general wear and tear. The ship looked well lived in, and the usual pristine wooden decks had lost a bit of their industrial sheen and, now naturally, looked dull and rustic. However, the atmosphere of an elite Quidditch team was still present. Toyotomi could observe seven players circling the hoops, practising attacking formations. Others could be seen watching from the sideline down below. In fact, the crowd seemed confusingly large for just a practice run.

Only when Toyotomi, focused on the individual players, did it all click together. The Chudley Cannons first team were up there. The very same team, that was put together for the friendly against the Holyhead Harpies last week. Player for player. These individuals were the elite, at the very top of their Quidditch game. Despite Chudley Cannon's reputation, a player who can compete in the British Quidditch league is a professional, and better than 99.9 percent of the magical world in terms of Quidditch ability. Toyotomi gawped at the sight. Vinn as keeper, The intimidating presence of the beaters Lancer and Smith. Avery, Pollitt, Haydon, Chasers. Toyotomi corrected his gaze back on to level ground. He could not afford to get distracted from the trials today. He just found it odd, that these players were training on the same day as the all-important selection trials.

"Name please?" A smartly dressed woman approached Toyotomi by surprise. She had a clipboard and a magic quill.

"Toyotomi," he replied bluntly.

The woman paused for a moment, examining the list, before producing a confused expression.

"Hm, it doesn't seem like you are on the list I'm afraid." She glanced at the sheet once more but before she could turn Toyotomi away, the quill sprung to life and scribbled at the bottom of the sheet.

Toyotomi Moor

"Ah, there it is. Welcome, Toyotomi. Now trials are to begin soon. It will consist of a single Quidditch match with others who have also attended the selection. I kindly request that you wait down here until your predetermined team is called up. I wish you the best of luck!"

Toyotomi stood awkwardly as the woman left. Very few details were given about the selection. However, this seemed natural. These selections were not be taken lightly by the team.

The players chosen today would become the future of the Chudley Cannon's, and apart from a few summer transfers (which the Cannon's could not usually afford) meant that only the best youngsters will be chosen by the manager. That is something that worried Toyotomi slightly, Wolfgang did not seem to want him in the team before, what will have changed today? This is why Toyotomi made a promise to himself. He had to be number one in the selections today. Then Wolfgang will have no choice other than to take him on.

The other participants stood on the side, a gathering of butterflies and nerves. This meant a lot to them as well. However, only 5 people are taken on every year. So, the 23-remaining people, will either have their contracts terminated or if they are very skilful but very unlucky,be allowed to try again.

Toyotomi could spot a few people he recognised. Jess Haydon stood beside several others, who were deeply engrossed in the first team tactics above. I mean her sister was up there after all but why watch her so closely? Mouse could be seen sitting on the floor, polishing his broom and removing stray thistles. He definitely still suited his name; in the past 4 years, he had hardly grown! Toyotomi tried to make eye contact with him, but Mouse seemed to avoid it like the plague. In fact, he seemed a bit uncomfortable at Toyotomi's approach.

"Mouse! Been a while huh" Toyotomi said cheerfully.

Mouse looked up cautiously, he examined the person in front of him, until his eyes widened and revealed the natural glow which had been hidden until that very moment.

"I don't believe it. Is that really you Tomi?" Mouse had lit up like fireworks. He dropped his broom and polish, approaching his long-lost friend.

"It is, I'm sorry I haven't been in contact, but you know how it is. I've been busy..."

"I can tell Tomi." Mouse stared at Toyotomi, astounded by his transformation. He particularly noticed his larger frame and broader shoulders, but also his eyes. The hazel-brown exhibited a shade of ferocity, which had not been present before. Other friendships have been broken for less, but Mouse relieved himself of all grudges, forgave Toyotomi for his lack of contact and treated him like family.

"I'm glad you're still here Mouse. It must have been rough in the academy. I couldn't stand it. You were tougher than me."

Mouse shook his head. "No way Tomi, you had to do your own thing. I respect that. Let's just get this done with and secure a place on the team!" The boys shook their hands as teenagers do, comforted by the fact, they were about to give it their all and more, in their journey to becoming Quidditch professionals.

Both Toyotomi and Mouse were once again assigned to the same team. They were joined by 5 strangers. Toyotomi expected Mouse, would know a few of the players, they did grow up together in the academy after all. Instead, the players made it their objective to avoid Toyotomi and Mouse as much as possible. It must have been difficult training in the academy when people could not even stand the sight of you. Toyotomi admired Mouse's resolve. He stuck it out.

"The selection is about to begin!" Wolfgang's voice projected the entire ship, as he stood at the helm, wand pointed at his throat. Wearing a dark trench coat, the former board member turned manager, looked menacing. The dark colours accentuated his skeletal like features. He also seemed to enjoy the regality and authority as a manager. His coaches stood beside him on each side, like cronies ready to serve their Godfather.

"The instructions are very simple." He paused for a moment, releasing a thin smile. "Beat the first team in a Quidditch match, and you will have earned a place on this team. Fail to do that and I will not hesitate one bit to terminate your contracts...First up, Team D"

The Chudley Cannon's first team quickly formed and organised themselves at the stern side of the ship. Ready In their well-practised formation. Team D was obviously Toyotomi's team. They were supposed to be last, but something foul was amiss. There is no way a group of teenagers could beat the Cannon's. Toyotomi and Mouse looked at each other with slightly apprehensive looks. Yet they said nothing. A determination deep within both players to prove themselves.