Emotions | Sirius Black

Chapter 8

The Gryffindor and Ravenclaw Quidditch teams faced off in the cold winter air, the stands filled with students wrapped in scarves of red and gold or blue and bronze. The roar of the crowd was deafening as Madam Hooch's whistle pierced the air, signaling the start of the match.

Astrid Monroe soared into the sky, her scarlet robes billowing as she scanned the pitch for the elusive Golden Snitch. She had been training hard for this moment, determined to prove herself as Gryffindor's Seeker. Below her, the Chasers darted back and forth, passing the Quaffle with precision.

James Potter led his team with skillful maneuvers, weaving through Ravenclaw's defense. He passed the quaffle to Ryelle Hale, who dogged a bludger sent by the Ravenclaw beater. Ryelle threw the quaffle to Jay Johnson, who scored a spectacular goal, sending the Gryffindor stands into a frenzy.

Meanwhile, the Ravenclaw Seeker, Jezzelle Bennett, was also on the hunt for the Snitch, her sharp eyes darting around the pitch. Astrid kept her focus, her heart pounding as she remembered all the advice her friends had given her. She spotted a glint of gold near the Ravenclaw goalposts and dived towards it, Jezzelle hot on her tail.

"GRYFFINDOR SEEKER, ASTRID MONROE, SEEMS TO HAVE SPOTTED THE SNITCH! IT ALSO SEEMS THAT THE RAVENCLAW SEEKER JEZZELLE BENNETT SPOTTED IT! BOTH SEEKERS ARE NOW ON PAR WITH CATCHING THE SNITCH!" The commentator speaked loudly with enthusiasm.

The Bludgers were relentless, with Gryffindor Beaters Sirius Black and  Frank Longbottom working tirelessly to keep them away from their teammates.

Peter and Remus in the stands watching the game carefully, rooting for their team. Peter was the loudest one to cheer.

The score was tight, with Ravenclaw's Chasers proving formidable opponents.

Astrid flattened herself against her broom, the freezing wind whipping through her hair as she sped towards the Snitch. Jezzelle was gaining on her, but Astrid's determination pushed her forward. She could hear the cheers of her friends—Lily, Marlene, Alice, and Dorcas—urging her on.

With a final burst of speed, Astrid stretched out her hand, fingers brushing against the tiny, fluttering ball. She closed her grip around it just as Jezzelle reached out, missing by mere inches. Astrid held the Snitch high, the stands erupting in cheers as Madam Hooch's whistle blew again, signaling the end of the match.

Gryffindor had won. Astrid descended to the ground, her teammates surrounding her in a jubilant huddle. James clapped her on the back, grinning from ear to ear.

"Well done, Monroe!" he exclaimed.

Astrid beamed, her heart swelling with pride. She had done it. She had caught the Snitch and won the match for Gryffindor.

§

The aftermath of the Gryffindor vs. Ravenclaw Quidditch match saw the Gryffindor common room bursting with celebration. Banners and streamers adorned the walls, and the air was filled with laughter and cheers. A large table in the center of the room was piled high with snacks, fire whiskey, and butterbeer.

Astrid, however, slipped away from the commotion, retreating to a quiet corner of the castle. She leaned against the cool stone wall, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. The exhilaration of catching the Snitch still coursed through her, but the noise and chaos of the party were overwhelming.

"Astrid!" Lily called out, her voice echoing down the corridor.

Astrid sighed as Lily, Marlene, Alice, and Dorcas approached, their expressions a mix of concern and determination.

"There you are," Marlene said, folding her arms. "What are you doing out here? The party’s for you!"

"You know I’m not a fan of parties," Astrid replied, trying to keep her voice light. "I just needed some air."