The Noctis Codex | DRARRY

TWENTY-SIX

The Great Hall buzzed with chatter and clinking silverware as students enjoyed their breakfast, each table overflowing with excitement. The anticipation was almost palpable, but it wasn't until Professor McGonagall rose to her feet that the room fell silent, all eyes turning to the Headmistress.

"Attention, everyone!" Her voice rang out clearly across the Hall. "As you know, the annual House Games will be starting today at 10 a.m."

At the Gryffindor table, Harry exchanged a quick, knowing look with Hermione and Ron. The House Games were a highlight each year, but this was the first time he felt genuinely excited—and maybe a bit nervous—about them.

"As a reminder," McGonagall continued, "the games this year consist of three parts. The first challenge will be a Rowing Relay across the Black Lake. The second is the Maze of Magical Puzzles, and the final challenge, Aerial Catch and Collect, will take place on the Quidditch Pitch."

"Rowing and puzzles... that could be interesting," Harry thought, just as Draco's amused voice slipped into his mind.

"Try not to fall into the lake, Potter, if you get chosen," the blond quipped, his tone laced with a hint of sarcasm. "I hear it's colder than usual this year."

Harry's lips twitched with a grin he quickly hid behind his goblet. "I'd be more worried about you sinking, Malfoy. You're the one who looks allergic to water."

"I'm more than capable. Just don't get too comfortable at the front."

The Hall's attention returned to McGonagall as she raised a small, goblet-like cup filled with blue fire. "This goblet will now choose fifteen members from each House to compete in the games." She held the cup high as it began to swirl and glow brighter.

Names began to spill out one by one. Familiar names from each House echoed around the Hall as students cheered for their friends. But then, suddenly—"Harry Potter!"

A round of applause rose from the Gryffindor table, and Harry felt Hermione's delighted pat on his shoulder, while Ron grinned.

"Good luck, mate!" His friend laughed, raising his glass. "We'll be counting on you!"

"Another year, another way for you to make Gryffindor proud," Hermione added with a smile.

As Harry looked up, his gaze snagged on Draco, who wore an expression that looked like a mix between a smirk and genuine surprise. "Better be ready to lose, Potter," his thought echoed with a confidence that, if anything, only made Harry more competitive.

"Funny, I was going to tell you the same thing."

The goblet continued to select names, and Harry's attention drifted back to his friends. But he wasn't prepared for what happened next.

"Ronald Weasley!"

Ron's eyes widened in shock, looking at his friends with a mixture of pride and nervousness. "Looks like I'm joining you after all," he told them, though his gaze flickered nervously towards the Slytherin table.

A few more names were called, but then again—

"Draco Malfoy!"

Harry's shock mirrored the blond's as the Slytherin turned his head, eyebrows raised in bewilderment as if trying to confirm he'd heard correctly. Their eyes met, a silent realization passing between them.

"Well, well," Draco's thought held a sarcastic edge. "Guess we're going to get an up-close look at each other's skills, aren't we?"

"Guess you'll see what it's like to be outmatched."