The Untold Reborn

Chapter-17 : Friendships on the Line

The first week of October ushered in a brisk chill to the Hogwarts grounds, marking the beginning of Quidditch tryouts. The Slytherin team was on the lookout for two new Chasers and a Keeper, and Aurelia, who had never grown up dreaming of Quidditch due to her Muggle background, felt an eager anticipation. Her interest in the sport had developed rapidly since starting at Hogwarts.

As she approached the pitch, determination fueled her steps. The Slytherins were already assembled, their green and silver robes fluttering in the wind. Marcus Flint, the towering captain, stood at the center, issuing commands with his usual authority. The crowd of Slytherins fell silent as Aurelia arrived, quickly replaced by snickers and whispers.

"Is Potter really trying out?" a boy muttered, his voice dripping with disbelief.

"She probably doesn't even know how to hold a Quaffle," another sneered.

Aurelia tightened her grip on her broom, shaking off their doubt. Flying came naturally to her, and she wasn't going to let their skepticism stop her.

As she stepped onto the pitch, Marcus Flint's cold gaze landed on her. He scrutinized her with an unimpressed expression. "What are you doing here, Potter?"

"I'm here to try out for Chaser," Aurelia replied, her voice steady despite the stares.

A ripple of laughter spread through the group. "A girl on our team?" one boy jeered. "What's next, a Hufflepuff being the Heir of Slytherin?"

"She's a Potter," another added dismissively. "This is just a joke."

Marcus crossed his arms, smirking. "You really think you can handle it, Potter? This isn't some Gryffindor game where you just wave a wand and win."

Aurelia's eyes flashed with determination. "I'll be better than anyone else trying out. Just give me a chance."

Marcus's eyebrows raised in surprise, and he exchanged a glance with his teammates. After a moment of tense silence, he finally gave a curt nod. "Fine. But if you embarrass yourself, don't say I didn't warn you. We need to win the Cup this year; it's my last chance."

With a nod of thanks, Aurelia mounted her broom and soared into the sky. The moment she was airborne, the skepticism fell away. In the air, she felt a rush of freedom. She zipped across the pitch with ease, deftly maneuvering around the other Chasers, including Graham Montague, a fifth-year who tried to intercept her.

"Hey, Potter, watch out!" Graham Montague called, but Aurelia was too quick, slipping past him effortlessly.

Peregrine Derrick and Lucian Bole, the Beaters, observed from the sidelines. Oliver nudged Lucian. "Not bad for a second-year. She's got some serious skills."

Lucian nodded, a hint of respect in his voice. "Yeah, definitely. She's better than some of the older students."

Aurelia spotted the Quaffle and surged forward, weaving between the other players. She launched the Quaffle through the hoop with precision, the ball soaring effortlessly.

The pitch fell into an almost eerie silence. No one had expected such a display of skill, especially not from a girl who had grown up without magic.

Marcus Flint's scowl momentarily faded as he watched her performance. "Looks like we've got ourselves a new Chaser," he said, begrudging admiration in his voice.

Aurelia landed gracefully, her heart pounding. She scanned the faces around her—some were shocked, others thoughtful. Piper Flint, who was also Marcus's sister, stepped forward with a supportive smile.

"You were fantastic out there, Aurelia," Piper said. "Don't let Marcus or anyone else put you down. You proved them wrong."

Aurelia smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Piper. Your support means a lot."