Ravenclaw vs. Gryffindor

[Madam Xiomara Hooch]

((The game is now officially beginning. Please feel free to post your warm-up with your first action.))

Spring was here and the weather was turning up. Students no longer bundled up with winter cloaks in the halls. That meant one very important thing, a whole new batch of quidditch matches. Today it was Ravenclaw and Gryffindor. Madam Hooch had been looking forward to this game for weeks, and the weather could not have complied more. It was a beautiful day of 20 degrees (Celsius of course) and the sky was a lovely shade of light blue without a cloud in sight. This wasn’t the greatest for the players as it meant the sun may cause a visibility issue, but the spectators would be happy to get some sun in while enjoying the game. Winter cloaks certainly wouldn’t be necessary today; some brave souls were likely to even show up in short sleeves. The players would be sweating buckets, but it would be nice not to freeze for a change.

Madam Hooch allowed today’s copy of the Daily Profit to fall into the recycle bin as she walked past out of the Great Hall, ready to go pick up the balls from her office. The students were just now pouring into the hall as the team members filed out, off to get ready just as Hooch was. Some of them looked nervous, others did not. It was always like that, where some of the students let the pressure get to them and others acted like it was just another day. But really Hooch knew they were all excited, how could they not be, today was their day to play.

Slipping into her warm weather robes Madam Hooch made a mental check list of everything she would need with her today, then picked them all up as they were already waiting for her by the door. The stands seemed to be moving themselves because of all the people moving up and down, left and right, over them. Soon the appointed hour came and everyone seemed to have settled, the names of the team members were called and they walked onto the pitch.

“Captains, shake hands please. Remember, a nice clean game is what we’re all after today.” she said as usual. When the captains were finished Madam Hooch went on. “Mount your brooms, everyone.” And the players shot up like corks.

Soon Madam Hooch hovered over the chasers with the quaffle in hand. “3… 2… 1… Go!” She shouted dropping the red ball into the air.

((The current line-ups are…

Ravenclaw
Position Player Dex/Str/Con
Chaser - Elaine Bentley R5 1,3,2
Chaser - Theo Darke R5 2,6,4
Chaser - Celia Richmond R6 4,5,3
Beater - Jamison Parson R7 3,3,3
Beater - Stewart Ackerley R6 3,5,2
Keeper - Adriahna Dynes R5 1,3,3
Seeker - Jasmine Anderson R7 6,4,6

Sub:
August Reid R4 1,1,2


Gryffindor
Position Player Dex/Str/Con
Chaser - Zara Phoenix G7 4,5,1
Chaser - Lenora Byers G7 4,1,3
Chaser - Scott Ryder G5 5,2,4
Beater - Cassandra Blackfire G6 2,1,3
Beater - Melody Bang-Bala G2 1,6,4
Keeper - Casey Allen G4 4,5,3
Seeker - Rex Carter G4 6,3,6

Sub:
AJ Murphy G6 1,4,4

Ravenclaw 50
Gryffindor 190))

[Scott Ryder G7]

The last time Scott prepared for a Quidditch game, he didn't think he could be much more nervous. Well, once again, he seemed to outdo himself as he walked from the castle to the Quidditch pitch. One might think that after his first game in which he caught the Snitch and practically stole the win from Hufflepuff that Scott would be a bit less nervous. Surely the worst was behind him and the rest should be easy. To top it off, he didn't even have the pressure of having to catch the Snitch. He would be playing Chaser today, which meant that his ability to catch the elusive ball of gold wouldn't determine whether or not Gryffindor won. However, despite all of this, Scott was still nervous. Playing Chaser meant that he would be pitted against Theo, and as much as he didn't mind that, it seemed to add a bit of complexity to the game. He was never good at distinguishing between sides. When it came to playing for his team, he would be determined to do his best. Yet, having formed a close friendship with Theo, it would be odd to have to play against him. Scott was so used to playing with Theo when they would just go out and throw the Quaffle around. Now, Theo was the enemy. It was a new experience that Scott knew he would simply have to overcome. Plus, Theo was in the same situation. Surely he'd understand that the team had to come before friendships in this case. It wasn't like Scott had to purposely hurt or Theo or anything like that. It was just a game. He kept telling himself that.... just a game.

Like the last time, the pre-game routine seemed to fly by as Scott's stomach was doing backflips. Before he realized it, the captain's speech was over and Madame Hooch was gathering everyone to start the game. A shaky grip on his broom handle, Scott kicked one leg over the bristles as he prepared to take flight. Flashes of red and blue swirled around him as he tried to block everything out of focus except for Madame Hooch. If he bothered now to look to find Theo, he knew he would lose focus. All he needed to do was keep focused, and he knew he should be fairly fine for the most part.

From three, Madame Hooch counted down, and then the shrill piercing whistle sounded the start of the game as she announced that they could all go. In his mental state of concentration, Scott didn't think twice about doing what only seemed natural. In a matter of seconds, he bolted forward, hand outreached as he tried to be the first the snatch the Quaffle from midair. As he was doing so, it felt quite odd to be going into action so early. The last game he played, his first game ever, Scott basically flew around the whole time without much action at all. Aside form a rouge Bludger here and there, the game was quite slow for him until the end. Now, though, he would pretty much be flying, dodging, ducking, passing, shooting, and watching for Bludgers the entire time. Who knew being a Chaser was so much fun! Deep down, he was glad to have a chance to play the position he had always wanted. Letting someone else worry about the Snitch was a nice change of pace, and he wish Rex the best of luck. For him though, all he had to worry about was the red leather ball that would soon be in his possession if all went as planned.

((Trying to catch the Quaffle. ))

[Theo Darke]

Theo jogged onto the pitch behind his team, feeling his muscles flex and was glad of the warm-up exercises he had done before he had arrived in the noisy Quidditch stadium. He cast his eyes around the stands, seeing the familiar colours of red, yellow, green and blue - the house colours - gleaming at him from the reflective rays of the April sunshine. The cheering increased in rhythm and volume as both teams gathered in the centre of the field with Madam Hooch, awaiting her call to start. However, before that, it was the Captains' speeches that would hopefully boost the morale of their teams. Theo listened intently to Jasmine and Celia, taking in their words with a slight nod of acknowledgement and understanding now and again. Minutes later, Theo found himself ready to mount his broom and kick off into the air for the start of the match. Gryffindor versus Ravenclaw; it would be a fierce battle. His eyes glanced across at the red-clad members, skimming over the figures of their Captain, Cassandra Blackfire, and their Vice, Zara Phoenix.

Finally, and inevitably, they landed on the familiar face of Scott, and had Theo not been rather expert at containing blushes, he would've looked as red as a tomato. In all honesty, Theo felt a little uncomfortable at their current situation. It would have been convenient if Scott was playing Seeker and/or Theo as Keeper, but no - today, just as fate would have it, they were both playing the Chaser position, meaning only one thing - they were against each other, head-on, one on one. Well, not exactly, Theo tried to reassure himself as his blue eyes trained on Scott's determined visage, brunette hair sweeping over intense eyes. He was also against the other two Gryffindor Chasers, Zara and Lenora, and his own fellow Chasers, Celia and Elaine, were bound to attack Scott too. Theo was a little drawn to just letting the two girls dive for the kill if Scott happened to get the Quaffle, but knew that in this match, they would have to set friendship aside for now. What was most important was to fulfil your duty to your team. Not that Theo didn't value Scott's friendship, but he could tell from the way his friend held himself he felt the same way; they would not let each other down by going easy. That was the best, and fairest way. Neither would let their teams down either.

Theo had to force his eyes away from staring at Scott as Madam Hooch ordered the teams to mount their brooms and prepare for take-off. With a grim but determined expression, Theo did as she told, ignoring the building nervousness in his stomach. Lori and Flo and all his other friends would be in the audience, cheering for him, willing him to win. For his first real match in front of so many people, Theo had to admit even he was a little daunted. However, knowing that Scott and his teammates were with him helped ease his nerves a little (though with Scott on the opposing team, it wasn't really that comforting). Kicking off into the cool air and awaiting Madam Hooch to release the Bludgers and the Snitch, Theo glanced up towards the direction of Scott one last time before the battle commenced. The Gryffindor looked focused and determined, as Theo had expected, and he found himself smiling. He had forgotten he should be enjoying the game as well, because it wasn't just about winning and losing. It was important, of course, but it wasn't everything. "It's how you play the game, Theo." He chanted to himself.

Then the Quaffle was released, and the crowd was in an uproar. Theo barely noticed though as he surged forward to catch it. He was the closest. As his eyes glanced up hastily to check who from the Gryffindor team had been sent to pursue and fight him for the red ball, Theo felt his hopes falter somewhat. It was Scott. Fate was seriously toying with him, Theo thought as he allowed a small smirk. He was competitive when he wanted to be though. Well, here goes! Frowning against the pull and push of the wind rustling in his ears, he drove his broom faster, reaching the Quaffle closer and preparing to snatch it out of the air and away from Scott's grasp. He didn't want to hurt the Gryffindor, and he didn't want to defy his friend's need to win either... but this was a game, and the game was on. Let the best Chaser get the Quaffle!

((Attempting to catch the Quaffle!))

[Zara Phoenix]

Zara shook her glossy red hair over her shoulders before throwing it up into a high ponytail, letting the cascade of ginger fall against her back and dangle in the breeze. Once irritating strands were tucked out of the way, she adjusted her gloves, boots, the kit and all; finally, she glanced over her trusty broomstick one last time, before looking around the changing rooms at her teammates. Everyone was getting ready too, pulling at robes and cloaks, checking bats and warming up. Zara smiled, flexing her arms in the air, and waited for Cass to gather everyone to lead them onto the pitch. When everyone was ready, the eight members of the Gryffindor team trooped onto the pitch, where the usual noise levels were escalating as expected as the players appeared in the glowing heat of the sunlight. Grinning up at the stands where Zara knew her friends and Sapp would be, she shielded her eyes to prevent the brightness from blinding her. Her magnificent blue eyes narrowed for a few seconds, frowning; she hoped Luke would be up there somewhere, watching her. But somehow, she did doubt it. The way Luke had been treating her recently had been distant and aggressive, and Zara didn't like it one bit. She knew it was related to him and his disability... the thought made Zara physically flinch... but was that any reason to shut her out? She knew her heart ached from his doings, but she tried to ignore them. She wasn't weak this way... not when it came to men. Zara knew she didn't need Luke in her life to live on, but... he was something she wanted, and he was denying it her because of some... stupid reason she didn't understand.

Zara shook her head and walked towards the middle of the ptich with everyone else. Even in this important Quidditch match she was thinking of Luke, letting the Hufflepuff distract her! It made her extremely irritated with herself. However, her face was ever-smiling as Cass and Jasmine approached Madam Hooch. She glanced round the team and waited for her Captain to make her usual speech. Zara did her usual part - nodding and smiling - and finally said a few words of encouragement to every member. Then Madam Hooch was blowing her whistle, the brooms and people were in the air, and the balls were let loose. Chaos ensued, and Zara loved it. For now, Luke would be the furthest thing on her mind. She hovered into the air, feeling a cool wind hit her cheeks, and smiled despite herself. The Quaffle was released last, and Zara let Scott go for it, waiting on standby to attack if the opposing Ravenclaw Chaser managed to get the ball before Scott did. Zara examined the player - Theo was his name if she recalled correctly. He was a fifth year prefect, a decent, friendly, and apparently rather gay one. Were Scott and Theo friends? she wondered as the two boys went in for the attack. Whether they were or not though, Zara knew that in this situation, years and friendships and siblingships were all put aside for one purpose - your house. She felt her Gryffindor pride swell at the thought, and knew Scott would feel the same way - as did all her other teammates. Eagerly, Zara bent over her broom to watch the outcome of the first battle in the game. Who would get the Quaffle - Gryffindor or Ravenclaw?

[Celia Richmond]

It was the day Celia had been both looking forward to and dreading for weeks. She had been looking forward to it as it was the day of the 2nd Quidditch match of the year, against Gryffindor this time, and over the year she'd gained enthusiasm for the sport, and confidence when she was playing it, and now always looked forward to practices and any other chance she got to play. However, she was dreading it for several reasons. Firstly, Gryffindor had won their last game against Hufflepuff against all odds, with Scott catching the snitch to clinch the game for them so they ended up winning 150 to 30. It had been an excellent game to watch, albeit relatively long, but she really hoped they didn't do the same thing to the Ravens as they did to the Huffles.

The second reason was that Ravenclaw themselves had lost their last game against Slytherin. A very similar thing had happened to them as had happened to the Hufflepuffs-they had been beaten although they had been ahead. The differences were that their game had been much shorter, they had only got 10 points where the Huffles had 30, and Celia had actually been playing in that game, not just watching. Although she didn't like to admit it, it had damaged their confidence for their following games, but had also given them more motivation to do even better than their best this game. They were already behind, so in order to stand a chance of winning the cup they had to win this game. Despite already being way ahead in the house points cup, the Ravenclaws were all very competitive and she really hoped they would win the quidditch cup too.

She felt as if she had responsibility as both the vice captain and a chaser to make sure the team did well. As vice, if they were defeated it would only be natural for some of the blame to be on her head. As a chaser it would be her responsibility to try and score so that points were racked up (or be able to pass to someone that could shoot) so that either a) they ended up with over a 150 point lead (not really likely), b) if they won it would be a better win or c) if they lost it wouldn’t be as humiliating. Her responsibility mightn’t be as great as Jasmine’s, who was both captain and seeker, but she couldn’t help feeling that if they lost, it would be partly her fault, though she’d try to take defeat graciously.

That morning she joined her team members at breakfast in the great hall, not really knowing how to feel about the game. Yes, she was confident that they could do well, but at the same time the fact that they lost in the last game and Gryffindor just clenched a win in theirs didn’t do her confidence any favours. They’d had plenty of practice and they were all on top form, but she knew that she couldn’t get her hopes up too high. She knew that Gryffindor were a very strong team-she just hoped that they would end up becoming complacent and not playing up to their best, so Ravenclaw had more of a chance of winning. Not that she thought they didn’t have a chance when both teams were up to their best, she just really hoped that they could win this game so they weren’t out of the running for the cup at the end of the year.

She polished off her food and made her way to the changing rooms to get changed and prepare for the game. Team spirit unmistakeably filled the air, and Celia couldn’t help but join in with the “Go Raven” chants, though they clashed with “Go Go Gryffindor” that she could hear in the distance. She put on her goggles, mounted her broom and flew out onto the pitch. She was playing as chaser again today, along with Theo and Elaine, with Jazz as Seeker and August as Keeper, with the others as beaters. She watched and listened as Madam Hooch released the balls and blew the whistles along with the usual “nice clean game” speech.

She had planned to go after the quaffle herself, but she saw that Theo set off for it before her, along with Scott (who was seeker in the last game) from the Gryffindor team. It was interesting to see such close friends compete against each other, and hoped that no feelings would be caught. Though she wouldn’t be surprised that whichever one won would be winding the other up forevermore, knowing guys. She watched as the 2 younger boys fought over the quaffle, and flew over to an empty space, hoping that Theo would catch the quaffle and then pass it to her, so she could then go and shoot.

((Catching quaffle pass from Theo if he catches it))

[Melody Bang-Bala G6]

Melody was very nervous about the game today - not particularly because she was het up in the normal way that a team member (or indeed even anyone whose house was playing in a game that day), but rather because she was going to be playing as Beater again. She wasn't scared for her own safety. Melody was thrilled to be part of the starting lineup this game, as her normal position was as a reserve. However, it made her throat constrict with something a little like fear when she reflected upon the fact that she was going to have to start smashing the awful iron Bludgers at people, people with arms and legs and ribs enough between them to keep her occupied inflicting injuries and pain on Ravenclaws for the entire match. And it was frightening, because that was what was expected of her. Maybe not the broken bones (although likely no one from her own team would feel it amiss if she were to cause any to a Ravenclaw), but certainly the pain, because that was the most effective way of distracting a player. But Melody didn't want to cause people pain. She viewed the idea with horror: she knew what real pain was, after what a Death Eater had done to her two years ago.

Melody was far too shy to raise the issue with her Captain or Vice Captain, though. In fact, she was far too shy to discuss it with... well, anyone really. Certainly no one on the Quidditch team - she was a year younger (and two school years below) even than Rex and Casey, and she was so quiet now that she didn't even know them particularly well. As for Cassandra and Zara, there was an even greater age gap. She was slightly intimidated by both of them, as well. Possibly she would have been quite at ease with Zara had she looked more like her twin sister but... in truth, they didn't look much like one another.

So, the fact remained that Melody was currently really uncomfortable in her position as Beater, but hadn't yet told anyone about it, so of course she was in as a Beater again. It was the position where she was most likely to be substituted into, as well, of course (it would be a desperate Captain who put in a second year as their Seeker, it seemed!), but she wasn't ever likely to get over her problems with the position. She also wasn't about to get out of playing as Beater, seeing as no one knew about her difficulties. Anyway, Melody didn't really want to stop playing as Beater. She wasn't at all bad at it... she was a quick flyer so she was best at defence, being able to reach Bludgers that wanted intercepting pretty quickly. Melody hoped to be able to focus on defence for this match, to break her a bit more gently into the terrifying role of a Beater. She also had good hand-eye co-ordination, so it was unusual for her to actually miss hitting a Bludger. She did still need to work on her aim a bit. But then again, aiming at people was precisely what scared her.

Melody stayed very quiet during Cassandra's pre-match encouragements. She remained as obscure as she could be when they walked out into the middle of the pitch. But she did rise up into the air very quickly when Madam Hooch's whistle blew, and kept an eye on where the Bludgers thought they might go as they got their first taste of freedom. They would be showing up as dark blots against the bright sky this match. Melody squinted slightly into the sunlight, and pulled her pair of Anti-Glare Unshatterable Flying Goggles over her eyes. The sky immediately turned a slightly less appealing shade of blue, but she could still tell the difference between the Ravenclaw and Gryffindor robes, and now she wouldn't have to strain her eyes to see very dangerous objects which were supposed to present a challenge of strength, agility, aim and courage, not of visibility (There was the Snitch for that). She spotted one Bludger that seemed to be forming vague designs of following Lenora about, so, although slightly disappointed that neither of the Ravenclaw Beaters had given her something to defend against instead, she grit her teeth and went after it, picking her most obvious choice as the first target of the game.

((Bludger attack on Jasmine.))

[Cassandra Blackfire G7]

Cass paced the common room in the wee hours of the morning. Game days were always particularly stressful on her. The night before any big match, Cass would sit staring at the ceiling of her four poster bed dreaming about every play she kept in her fat, red book she kept under her bed. Sometimes, she would even go so far as to dig out a quill and try to rewrite in some new way. This normally ended up with Cassie scratching the new markings out, writing back the old, and then shutting the book in a huff. This was almost becoming a ritual for the Gryffindor captain. Harry Potter himself had appointed her captain when he left school. She remembered that day. Harry had come to search the fourth year out on the final day of school. She had been packing up her crystal philes from her potions kit at the time. She had dropped every single one when he told her the news.

***Bong, Bong, Bong***

A deep, baritone clock clanged. It was time for breakfast. The game was in less than two hours. Cass ran up to her dorm and put on her quid ditch pants and sweater. She ran to the Great Hall after changing and had a light breakfast. She wasn't much of a breakfast person anyway. Normally, game days were so strenuous she didn't eat anything in fear that she would get sick on the field. On the other hand, she didn't want to get weak and fall out of the sky either.

Cassandra soon found herself in the Gryffindor locker room observing the skyline after she had put on her beater's pads. It was a beautiful day. She leaned against the door and watched her fellow students fill the stands. Her teammates buzzed about and talked frantically in their excitement. She heard them slowly calm down and take their seats on the benches. Turning around, she began to pace in front of the benches to deliver her pre-game speech. "All right, everyone, it's going to be a good game today. It's a bright, sunny day. Hardly a cloud in the sky. Rex, you keep a watch on the snitch. The sun is going to be working against you today. Chasers, it won't be like our last match with Hufflepuff. We won't have the wind working against us."

She looked at them all once again. "We've got a good, strong team this year. I'm switching the line-up around today. A.J. will be starting as keeper. I will be going in as beater. I may decide to change the line-up as the game progresses so everybody keep a watch out for my signals." A horn began to blare and the crowd roared. "That's our cue. Let's win it, guys!" She motioned the team to follow her out as the announcer called out their names. The Gryffindors and Ravenclaws formed up out on the field. The all watched as Celia and Cassandra shook hands. On Hooch's command, they all shot into the air. The game was on.

Immediately, Cass saw her first target. Taking her bat, she whacked the bludger with all her might at the Ravenclaw captain.

((Bludger attack on Celia))

[Adriahna Dynes R5]

The morning was beautiful as Adriahna suited up in her Ravenclaw quidditch uniform for the second time. She had been terribly nervous last game – but not half so much as this game. This time Jasmine had told her she would be starting beater, a position she knew but wasn’t her specialty at all. Starting was scary enough, but starting in a position that wasn’t your regular… that was even harder. Adriahna was a keeper, she liked it that way, in the action with the quaffle. But of course at times like this with half the team having gone missing everyone had to make sacrifices and it wasn’t like Adriahna was scared of the bat. Rather the opposite in fact, she had been told she was merciless with those bludgers. Sending them this way and that. Strategically or otherwise. It really wasn’t her fault that she knew what to do and how to do it and it didn’t matter who got in the way. She was just being practical really; sometimes she was told she should have been in Slytherin. Of course Adriahna didn’t agree with that, it’s not like Slytherin was the worst house one could be in, but they just didn’t always have the brains behind that important drive. And they certainly didn’t know what was going on in other people’s heads as much as they thought they did.

Breakfast was a whirl, like a roller coaster ride that you don’t even realise it’s started until suddenly you stop, your head is swimming, and your hair is all out of place. This was it, this was the day, her day to prove she should be on the starting line-up. Not to mention her day to prove she won’t throw up when under major pressure, an attribute that can also come in handy around OWL time, which was also coming up. Adriahna picked her beaters bat up from the seat beside her and made her way numbly towards the change rooms. Most people were changing in there, which made Adriahna feel a bit odd already being in her uniform, but she just couldn’t wait, and didn’t know if she would be able to dress in their with the real possibility of fumbling fingers. Jasmine gave her speech and that was it, they were out.

Captains shake hands, blah, blah, blah, game begins. Adriahna’s head was swimming but she knew she had to do this, especially as she was the only beater out there for her team at the moment, where was the other guy? Almost instinctively Adriahna was floating toward Jasmine, beaters bat in hand, when suddenly she saw the bludger flying right at the captain. With a call out in warning Adriahna smashed at the bludger with all her might.

((Defending Jasmine and deflecting to AJ))

[Madam Xiomara Hooch]

((Just a quick reminder again. Actions for next round need to be posted next round otherwise they will be considered null and void.

Melody hits a bludger at Jasmine and Adriahna attempts to defend.
Melody = Bludger (D6 + Str) = 6 + 6 = 12
Adriahna = Defending (D8 + Str) = 3 + 1 = 4

Melody’s bludger escapes Adriahna.

It is assumed Jasmine would attempt to dodge.
Melody = Bludger (D6 + Str) = 6 + 6 = 12
Jasmine = Avoid (D8 + Dex) = 2 + 6 = 8

Melody’s bludger hits Jasmine. As Jasmine is not performing an action she does not need to roll Con.

Cassandra hits a bludger at Celia.

There is a bludger flying at Celia.

Scott and Theo try to catch the quaffle.
Scott = Catch (D4 + Dex) = 3 + 5 = 8
Theo = Catch (D4 + Dex) = 2 + 2 = 4

Scott catches the quaffle.))

[Stewart Ackerley R6]

The game was off to a fast-paced start and with a rush of adrenaline Stewart flew to prevent the Bludger flying towards Celia from hitting her. He had a good feeling about today overall despite Ravenclaw having lost their last match against Slytherin.

((Defending Celia.))

[Celia Richmond]

Celia watched as Scott and Theo both tried to catch the quaffle, and groaned as she saw Scott catch it for the Gryffindors. It meant they were already at an advantage before the game had even started properly, and she really didn't want that to happen. So she swiftly flew over to Scott and attempted to steal the quaffle from his hands. Then she could take the quaffle and hopefully shoot and score a goal. She flew after him, overtook him and hoped to be successful and steal the quaffle as she flew past him.

However, she now had other problems. She saw a bludger flying at her, which she assumed was from Cassandra as Melody had hit the other bludger towards Jazz. That was one of the down sides of being the captain or vice-you get picked on. She winced as she saw Adriahna fail to defend Jazz and the bludger hit the captain. Luckily she seemed alright and not badly injured. Now she had to defend herself aswell as try and catch the quaffle, but luckily Stewart was trying to defend her. She hoped she would both steal the quaffle and avoid the bludger-otherwise it would be a disaster for the team.

((Stealing quaffle from Scott and dodging bludger))

[Theo Darke]

Theo felt the Quaffle graze his fingertips, and for a split second he thought he had it. But Scott dived forward to swipe the red ball from right under his nose in a firm challenge that made Theo smile more than grimace. He cursed inwardly for losing the Quaffle to his friend, but also congratulated Scott for his skills; Theo still had a lot to learn, evidently. Grinning as Scott peddled away quickly down where August was dutifully keeping the goalposts, he followed after his fellow fifth year. "Sorry, guys!" Theo yelled across to Celia and Elaine, but wasted no time in urging his broom forward to race after Scott. The girls followed suit. Theo found a slight smirk pricking the corner of his lips; he was amused because his and Scott's positions were now reversed to that time a few weeks ago when Scott had been chasing Theo across this very same pitch, and then accidentally fallen when he had collided with him. Scott had suffered a slight injury to his wrist, but it had been nothing major. Initially, Theo had been terrified he had seriously done damage to his friend, but after being briefed by Madam Pomfrey that Scott would make a full recovery, he had relaxed. Theo didn't know why he was so concerned for the other boy's well being, but justified it with the fact Scott was becoming a close friend. Theo knew he would feel the same way about Lori if she suffered harm; in fact, he was rather overprotective of her really, and that wasn't even to do with physically harmful related issues!

Theo brushed through the wind powerfully as he tried to catch up with Scott; damnit, the Gryffindor was a fast flyer. However, Theo wouldn't be outdone so easily. He noticed Celia out of the corner of his eyes steadily creeping towards Scott, obviously about to pounce and try to steal the Quaffle. Theo remembered his Quidditch training with the other Ravenclaw players, and readied himself for if Celia failed to snatch the Quaffle from Scott. In that instance, Theo was to intercept the pass Scott would make to either Zara or Lenora. Theo's perceptive eyes flickered from one Gryffindor seventh year to the other; from bright red hair to gleaming blonde locks. Zara and Lenora were both very able flyers and Quidditch Chasers in their own right, Theo thought to himself as he steered his broom towards the path Scott was probably going to launch the Quaffle towards his teammate. Hopefully, he would prevent the two girls from taking the ball if Celia failed to block Scott.

((Attempting to intercept any passes Scott makes to Lenora/Zara and avoiding Bludger attack (if that is allowed?).))

[Melody Bang-Bala G6]

Melody's heart lurched slightly as she saw that the Ravenclaw Beater hadn't had the strength to fend off her Bludger (she had given it a good whack, and it was going very fast). Still, the Ravenclaw Captain would dodge it, surely, she must. She must. Melody didn't want to watch though, just in case she was wrong. Wait no, ignoring the fact that you were hurting someone didn't take away the fact that you were hurting. But... but she didn't have the courage to watch to see whether the Bludger would hit its mark right now. Maybe later, sometime later on in the game she would watch a Bludger make its entire vicious journey, including the moment of impact. As it was, she averted her eyes as she saw that Jasmine wasn't quite going to avoid it, and observed what was going on in the rest of the game for herself instead.

Cassandra had hit a Bludger at the Ravenclaw Vice Captain, so it seemed that she approved of targeting the Chasers. Gryffindor was in possession at the moment, so it was only a matter of aiding the Gryffindor Chasers in retaining the Quaffle, rather than needing to do something spectacular to help them take the Quaffle back had Ravenclaw been the dominant team at the time. Melody assessed the course of the Bludger that she'd just hit Jasmine with (it looked like it had hurt a little, but she thought that the seventh year had managed a fairly neat dodge so that it hadn't hit anywhere really crucial, which was nice to know), and flew over to divert it in the direction of a Ravenclaw Chaser who was looking particularly expectant of Scott's pass.

((Hitting a Bludger at Theo.))

[Cassandra Blackfire G7]

"Wait to go, Melody!" Cass hollered at the young Gryffindor as she aimed a superb hit towards Jasmine. The game was getting off to a great start. Melody was doing an excellent job as beater. She supposed that the girl probably felt a bit like her when she began on the team. She had felt so young and inexperienced. She was the youngest one on the team at the team. Maybe she should get to know the young girl a bit more after the game. She truly wanted to be close with her team. Getting to know her players would ensure that she understood all of their weaknesses and strengths. Two of her chasers whizzed by her as she began to weigh her options. She looked at A. J. by the goals. He was a stronger beater. Cass was a better keeper. True, she had been a beater on the team for the past three years, but A.J. had more strength. Cass made a decision.

She flew up to Madame Hooch. "I'm switching my line-up. I know it's early in the game, but I need to switch A.J. and I out." Cass motioned A.J. in to give him the news. After getting that settled, Cass took her new position in front of the goal posts.

((Changing Line up - A.J. - Beater, Cass - Keeper))

[Scott Ryder G7]

In the rush of trying to get to the Quaffle, Scott didn't even have a split second to let out a breath of relief when he felt the familiar texture of the leather ball land safely in his hands. Instead, he let his eyes focus on one thing, and one thing only: the Ravenclaw goal posts. Scott knew that it had been Theo who tried to get the Quaffle from Ravenclaw, but he couldn't let himself over-analyze why he had been the one to come away with the Quaffle instead. Theo was good, that was all that Scott needed to know. For now, he had been the successful one, but taking even a moment to ponder each outcome of every event would only make him lose focus. Don't lose focus, he told himself.

As he zoomed in and out of the surrounding players, Scott was very determined to simply fly from the center of the pitch clear to the goal posts and take the first shot on goal. It was an ambitious goal though, and sure enough the Ravenclaw team was not going to let him do anything without putting up a defense. Before he could even contemplate trying to maneuver a shot on goal, he felt the presence of a body come from behind. Using his weight to try to hold off the opposing Chaser (who turned out to be Celia), Scott knew he needed to look for an outlet. The first person he saw from his team was Zara. Not giving it a second thought, Scott simultaneously tried to fend off Celia as she tried to steal the Quaffle and also make a clean pass to Zara so that perhaps she might get a shot on goal instead.

In mid-motion, Scott saw the familiar blonde locks of his good friend, quite obviously knowing that Scott would intend to pass. Damn you, Theo, he cursed to himself. He couldn't help but instinctively smirk though, knowing that he and Theo had been able to see the way that the other played. Sure enough, their witness of the others' abilities would allow them each to have an advantage in knowing what the other might do. It would come down to a game of outwitting each other. Scott actually quite liked the thought of a mental challenge. It wasn't often that Quidditch allowed one to use a mental strategy. This game, for Scott at least, would be one of greater mental ability than physical ability, he could tell already.

((Defending from Celia stealing and attempting to pass to Zara))

[Madam Xiomara Hooch]

((Firstly, apologies for the delay. This next round will run until the evening of April 21st, to give all players a chance to post and get the rounds back to their normal time.

Secondly, there has been a lineup change. AJ replaces Cassandra as Gryffindor Beater and Cassandra replaces AJ as Gryffindor Keeper. Stewart Ackerley enters the game as Ravenclaw Beater.

Finally, Theo, you are allowed to dodge a Bludger in addition to any other move that you perform. So yes, it is allowed, but in fact then the Ravenclaw Beaters have another round in which to defend you because Melody posted only 3 hours before the scheduled end of the round. She would have needed to post more than 12 hours before the end of the round for the Bludger attack to be rolled in this post.


Cassandra hits a Bludger at Celia and Stewart attempts to defend her.
Cassandra = Bludger (D6 + Str) = 4 + 1 = 5
Stewart = Defend Bludger (D8 + Str) = 5 + 5 = 10

Stewart defends Celia from the Bludger.

Melody hits a Bludger at Theo. There is a Bludger flying at Theo.

Celia tries to steal the Quaffle from Scott.
Celia = Steal (D4 + Str) = 4 + 5 = 9
Scott = Defend (D8 + Str) = 8 + 2 = 10

Scott defends the Quaffle and tries to pass to Zara. Theo tries to intercept.
Scott = Pass (D6 + Dex) = 5 + 5 = 10
Theo = Intercept (D4 + Dex) = 1 + 2 = 3

Scott succeeds in passing. Zara has the Quaffle.))

[Celia Richmond]

Celia reached out attempting to steal the quaffle from Scott's grasp, however he managed to move it out of the way a split second before she managed to reach it.Annoyed with herself for failing to steal it from him, she watched as he managed to successfully pass to Zara before she got the chance to even try to intercept, as Theo didn't manage to intercept it. What were the Ravenclaws going to do? The game wasn't going too well for them so far, and she could only hope that it would pick up soon enough. The Gryffs hadn't scored yet, so she decided the only thing she could really do was to try and steal the quaffle again, with more success this time she hoped. So she flew over to where Zara was, and once again tried to steal the quaffle.

It was only then that she remembered the bludger that had been flying towards her. What had happened? She assumed that Stewart must've managed to hit it away from her. "BLUDGER! Theo, be careful!" she called as she saw one of the bludgers heading at her younger team mate, though she hoped her call wasn't necessary and he'd already noticed. She just had to make sure, as her team couldn't afford any injuries this early on in the game.

And what about the seekers, what were they doing? She couldn't see Jasmine or Rex anywhere...what was going on? Celia really hoped that Jasmine had some idea of where the snitch was, though she understood that it was a pesky little thing and very difficult to find. Her thoughts turned back to her task as she flew over to Zara, attempting to steal the quaffle from her-they needed the points! She had to keep her eye on the game though for the other bludger-one of the other beaters might've hit it withough her knowing, so she had to make sure it wasn't anywhere near her and that she could avoid it if it was.

((Stealing from Zara and avoiding any bludgers))

[Zara Phoenix]

Zara whooped her approval when Scott snatched the Quaffle from Theo's grasp. Grinning, she pulled away and ahead, keeping alight of her fellow teammate so he could pass to her and she could make a dash for the goals, where August Reid was patiently keeping guard. A quick glance around the area alerted Zara to Lenora's presence on the other side of Scott; the Beaters swarmed above them - already, Bludgers were flying all over the place, and Zara was sure she just saw Jasmine being bowled over by one little Melody had swung. "Good on her." Zara thought, knowing the second year was sometimes a little hesitant to give those nasty black Bludgers a good whack. Yes, Zara was afraid of hurting someone physically, but Quidditch was a physical gamble, in that sense. People were bound to get hurt, and unless you could accept those chances, you shouldn't be on the field, zooming around at dangerous speeds on a magical broomstick. Certainly, Zara thought wistfully, Sapphire did not exactly share her love for Quidditch, but she did not begrudge her twin sister for it. Everyone was entitled to their individual preferences, and Sapphire's reason for disliking the sport was perfectly liable. Inwardly, Zara wondered how she supported tjhis match; Ravenclaw or Gryffindor?

Zara watched a little helplessly as Celia, one of the opposing Chasers, dived towards Scott in an attempt to relieve him of the Quaffle. However, the fifth year boy held strong, and Zara felt a rush of pride though her veins. She wasn't particularly close to Scott, but whenever one of her team members did particularly well, she always felt a pang of pride and happiness surge through her. "Over here, Scott!" Zara shouted over the crowd's cheering as he evaded Celia's attack. She was rather close to him, so a short pass would suffice. However, as expected, Theo was attacking again, flying forwards to intercept the pass. "Darn, he's good for a newbie." Zara muttered under her breath as she raised her arms, hoping Scott's pass would outwit Theo's dexterity. The Quaffle sailed through the air and yes! - the ball skimmed Theo's fingers for a second time that day before landing in her capable outstretched hands. Grinning in triumph, Zara sent Scott a nod of thanks and well done, before wasting no time completing the rest of the distance towards the goalposts. She was there in a matter of seconds, bareling noticing how fast she was travelling as the wing whipped her pulled-up hair. The goalposts loomed overhead, the sun's rays casting their tall shadows against the grassy pitch. Zara squinted her eyes against the brightness, selecting the middle post as August hovered there, waiting for her attempt to shoot. However, she saw out of the corner of her eye Celia ready to bring on another spirited attack, and braced for impact. She had to avoid the Ravenclaw before she could shoot, but she would try it anyway. "Here goes." Zara spoke to herself softly, garnering up courage and launching the Quaffle at the selected post.

((Defending Quaffle from Celia and attempting to shoot.))

[Stewart Ackerley R6]

Being a Beater was no easy feat but Stewart loved the action and the tension on the pitch as you tried to keep everyone on the pitch away from harm's way. He'd defended Celia and next in line was Theo - Stewart placed himself between the Bludger and Theo and prepared to hit it with all his might.

((Defending Theo.))

[Cassandra Blackfire G7]

"Come on guys! You can do it!" Cassandra shouted from her position in front of the goal posts. Scott passed the quaffle to Zara. Her Vice Captain had it in her hands and looked as if she was going to try and score. In their last game, it seemed that her team was having a hard time scoring against the Hufflepuffs. They seemed to be a little more organized than the Ravenclaws, but the opposing team was putting on a good effort to thwart Cass' team. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Celia come on Zara's side to try and steal the quaffle. "Zara! Watch out!" Cass called to her chaser.