As expected, the Quidditch match didn't go very well for Gryffindor because Harry was still in the infirmary, which prevented him from participating in the game.
Marie, being Marie, stopped more than 90% of the Quaffles heading toward the goals.
The result was bitter for Gryffindor: 250-20 for us.
Did I feel bad? Not at all, because I don't care much about Quidditch. However, I'm sure Ravenclaw would have wanted a fair match against Gryffindor, even if it meant risking the victory.
Marie was hailed as the star player of the team and had the honor of carrying the Quidditch cup on the captain's shoulders.
Strangely enough, the Slytherins were happy with our victory, even though they didn't come first. As long as Gryffindor doesn't win, they're happy anyway.
Our house was enthusiastic because, after the points were tallied, we were back on top of the ranking for the four houses.
Now, at the end-of-year banquet, the room was decorated in blue and bronze colors with our eagle symbol throughout the hall. Harry was given permission to leave the infirmary for the evening.
The vast majority in the Great Hall looked at him as if it were the first time they had seen him. I can say that people like that could believe anything they are told.
"I would like to conclude the banquet by announcing the ranking for the House Cup. In 4th place, with 260 points: Gryffindor."
There were exclamations, and most of the Gryffindors were clearly disappointed.
"In 3rd place, with a total of 288 points: Hufflepuff. With 300 points: Slytherin."
The exclamations were a bit more subdued, though Slytherins were more upset than Gryffindors about not being in first place.
"And finally, with a total of 330 points, the winner of this year's House Cup is... Ravenclaw."
Our table applauded so loudly that I wouldn't be surprised if the room started shaking. We managed to climb back up despite losing a lot of points at the end of the year, making it all the more satisfying to win the title.
"Oh, yes, congratulations on Ravenclaw's victory. HOWEVER, in light of recent events, I must redistribute the points."
He's not really going to do that, is he?
"First, to Miss Hermione Granger... for keeping a cool head and using intelligence in the face of fire, I award fifty points to Ravenclaw!"
We applauded, but something didn't feel right.
"Secondly, to Mr. Ronald Weasley... for the best game of wizard chess this school has seen in years, I award fifty points!"
The Gryffindors applauded, and I saw Ron's brothers bragging about their little brother.
"Third, to Mr. Harry Potter... for exceptional courage and composure, I award sixty points!"
370 for Gryffindor and 380 for us, so we still win, right?
"It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends... I award eleven points to Neville Longbottom!"
No way, this favoritism is clear. Why make Gryffindor win instead of declaring a tie? Plus, 160 points were given for breaking the rules and risking certain death. The only one who truly deserves points is Neville.
Even though I was disgusted by this favoritism, I still applauded for my brother, since he earned so few points—only in Herbology had he scored any.
"I think it's time for a change of decor."
He clapped his hands, and Ravenclaw's banners disappeared, replaced by red and gold Gryffindor banners.