Payback [Fred Weasley]

Would a Hippogriff Make a Good Quidditch Player?

The next few weeks at Beauxbatons passed in a whirlwind of classes, Quidditch practices, and the regular hustle and bustle of school life. The anticipation for the upcoming third task of the Triwizard Tournament lingered in the air, but amidst it all, I received an unexpected invitation.

One afternoon, as I was heading back to the Beauxbatons carriage after Quidditch practice with Mia and Viktor, Madam Maxime approached me. Her towering figure and commanding presence always demanded attention.

"Charlotte," she said, her voice as strong and steady as ever. "May I have a word?"

"Of course, Madam Maxime," I replied, my curiosity piqued.

We stepped aside, away from the prying ears of other students, and she got straight to the point. "The Tutshill Tornados have expressed a keen interest in having you join their team full-time. They believe your skills on the Quidditch pitch are exceptional and could greatly benefit their roster."

I blinked in surprise, not expecting such a proposition. The Tutshill Tornados were a renowned Quidditch team, and the idea of playing professionally year-round was both exciting and daunting. Sure, I'd played over the summer for Spain, but playing as my job was a whole different situation.

"I've agreed to offer you the opportunity to graduate early from Beauxbatons and begin your professional Quidditch career with them," Madam Maxime continued. "It's a rare chance, and I wanted to discuss it with you so you could understand exactly what was going on."

I took a moment to absorb the information. The thought of leaving Beauxbatons earlier than planned was unexpected, but the prospect of playing Quidditch professionally, especially for a team as esteemed as the Tutshill Tornados, was a dream come true. 

Madam Maxime's words hung in the air, and I considered the gravity of the opportunity before me. The Tutshill Tornados, a team with a legacy and a reputation that echoed through the wizarding world, wanted me as a permanent member. It was an offer that could define my future, and I knew I had to weigh my options carefully.

"Charlotte," Madam Maxime said, breaking the thoughtful silence, "I understand this is a significant decision. Take your time to think it over, and when you're ready, let me know your choice. The Tutshill Tornados are willing to wait until the end of the school year to welcome you onto their team."

"Thank you, Madam Maxime," I replied, appreciating her understanding. "I'll give it the consideration it deserves and let you know my decision by the end of the week."

With that, Madam Maxime nodded, acknowledging my need for time and space to make such an important choice. And so,  she walked away, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

I sat with my thoughts the whole afternoon. I couldn't get any work done, and by the time dinner in the Great Hall started, I still felt like I was drowning in my own thoughts. Going to play professionally was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but was I really ready to go into the real world?

In the Great Hall, I found Mia and Viktor sitting together at a corner of the Ravenclaw table, thank god.

"Mia, Viktor," I began, my voice hesitant, "there's something I need to talk to you about."

They looked at me with curiosity, setting down their utensils. Mia nudged me gently. "What's on your mind, Char?"

Taking a deep breath, I recounted the unexpected offer from the Tutshill Tornados and Madam Maxime's proposition to graduate early from Beauxbatons. As I spoke, I watched the play of emotions on their faces – surprise, understanding, and a hint of sadness.