As Augustus walked out from the water station, the sun was already at its zenith, casting a dazzling golden light that bathed the entire world in its glow.
"Mr. Augustus," a soft voice drifted over from his left. Turning around, he saw Cho Chang. Her black hair gleamed, and she wore a perfectly tailored, sweet and youthful chiffon blouse. One had to admit, Cho's skill at blending into the Muggle world was flawless, and her simple attire effortlessly highlighted her adorable charm.
"Ah, it's Miss Chang. Long time no see. Are you here at the World Cup by yourself?" Augustus greeted her with a smile.
Cho's dimples appeared as she shook her head and replied with a smile, "I came with my parents. They traveled all the way from China to visit me. Since the World Cup was happening, I convinced them to come along."
A faint smile curved Augustus's lips. "Ah, your parents came such a long way to England; it would indeed be a pity to miss the World Cup. Their timing couldn't have been better."
Lillian, standing nearby, noticed the clover emblem on Cho's attire. With a hint of indifference, she asked, "Miss Chang, are you a fan of the Irish team? Why not camp in their support section?"
Cho waved her hand dismissively. "I wouldn't call myself a fan. I just have a bit of a liking for the Irish team and wanted to show some casual support. Nothing serious enough to join their fan camp."
Before Lillian could respond, Augustus quickly bid Cho farewell, and the three of them headed back toward the central camp. Augustus had learned that whenever Lillian encountered Cho, her mocking side would inevitably surface. Leaving early was the only way to avoid an impending conflict between the two girls.
As they returned to the campsite, they noticed Lucius Malfoy speaking with a middle-aged man at the entrance. When the two men saw Augustus and his companions approaching, they both smiled warmly.
"Augustus, let me introduce you," Lillian said, pursing her lips slightly as she gestured to the man. "This is my father, Brain Alexis."
The middle-aged man had an elegant and refined demeanor. His features, though not strikingly handsome, exuded a certain charm. He gently ruffled Lillian's hair before turning to Augustus. "It's a pleasure, Mr. Augustus. My daughter often mentions you. Your father and I go way back, so there's no need for formality. While he's away, Lucius and I, as his close friends, will ensure you're well looked after."
Augustus nodded politely and smiled. "Thank you, sir. And I appreciate your help in arranging the tent for us."
Brain waved a hand dismissively, smiling. "It was nothing, just a trivial matter."
The tents belonging to their families were situated along a main road leading to the stadium. Ministry officials bustled back and forth along the path, frequently stopping to greet Lucius and Brain with enthusiasm. Lucius, however, refrained from introducing these officials to Augustus, as though deeming them unworthy of attention.
Not far away, a loud voice caught Augustus's attention. Lucius and Brain seemed to take the approaching man seriously, greeting him with waves and smiles.
"This is Ludo Bagman, head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports," Lillian whispered to Augustus.
Ludo was dressed in a long Quidditch robe with bold yellow and black stripes. A giant wasp emblazoned across his chest seemed to drip ink. Though he appeared past his physical prime, his broad build still suggested a once-strong frame. The tight robe stretched across his ample stomach. His round blue eyes, short golden hair, and flushed cheeks gave him the look of an overgrown schoolboy.
"Ah-ha!" Bagman exclaimed cheerfully, bouncing with every step as if springs were attached to his feet. He was clearly brimming with excitement.
"Brain! Lucius! My old friends," he panted as he reached the campfire. "What a glorious day, isn't it? The weather's perfect! Just perfect! Not a cloud in the sky tonight—everything's running like clockwork. I've nothing left to do!"
Lucius, evidently accustomed to Bagman's effusive chatter, nodded with mild resignation before introducing his companions. "Ludo, this is my son, Draco Malfoy. You've met him before. And this is Brain's daughter, Lillian. Finally, this young man is Augustus Julius." He emphasized Augustus's name with pride, as if particularly pleased to make this introduction.
Bagman's demeanor shifted; he withdrew his exuberance and extended a hand toward Augustus with an air of respect. "A pleasure, Mr. Julius. I've heard much about you. The Dementors, I understand, have had a tough time in your presence. I was hoping to meet your parents here, but it seems they're away. A pity—our last meeting was over a year ago."
Augustus responded with the practiced smile of nobility. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Bagman. Your reputation precedes you. Your innovative policies as head of the Games and Sports Department have truly been beneficial, bringing lasting impact."
Bagman blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. Had he really implemented such significant measures? Could his minor initiatives truly have been so effective?
He let out an awkward laugh. "Oh, you're too kind, Mr. Julius. I wouldn't go that far."
"Speaking of which," Bagman said, regaining his characteristic enthusiasm, "anyone up for a wager on the match? I've already convinced Roddy Pontner to bet that Bulgaria will score the first goal—I gave him high odds because, honestly, Ireland's number three Chaser is the best I've seen in years. And little Agatha Timms has wagered half her eel farm stock, claiming the match will last a week!"
Brain shook his head coolly, showing no interest in gambling.
Lucius, not wanting to embarrass Bagman, interjected. "Very well, I'll wager 100 Galleons that Bulgaria will win by at least 100 points over Ireland."
Bagman beamed as he pocketed Lucius's gold. "Kids, would you like to join? Fair play and all that!"
Brain frowned, shooting Bagman a warning look. "Gambling is no activity for children, Ludo. You're setting a poor example."
Bagman laughed nervously, waved goodbye to the group, and quickly departed the camp.
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