Quidditch Durmstrang vs. Ilvermorny-Beauxbatons - Summer 2024

This summer camp, they were back at the London Quidditch Stadium—a location Slava had quite a fondness for, as this was where his very first interactions with students from other schools had happened. He had not been back here since that camp in 2020, but it was full of good memories and there was something particularly poetic about the fact that his last international Quidditch match with Durmstrang would take place in the same stadium as his first. His last… it was hard to believe, looking at the teammates he loved so dearly, that such a wonderful thing would have to end. They had come so far together—he had come so far, too—but every game they played brought them closer to his graduation.

It was strange to think about permanently leaving the place where he had spent the last seven years. Maksim had already graduated around a month ago, and the last time the two of them had been separated by not being in the same school was when Slava was nine, an age that felt like it was eons ago. He still had one year left, but that was only one year, and today was the end of his international games with Durmstrang. He would just have to make the most of the time that he did have left, and he hoped that his friendships would continue long after they left school.

A lot had changed since the match a year ago. For one, he was happy to be playing in his preferred position again and he was grateful that he would have the opportunity to be part of the first string for his final game. A fond smile appeared on his face as he remembered the argument with Nichlas on the bench last time. It had certainly been a rocky start for them, but without that, they probably wouldn’t have spent enough time together to progress to a meaningful relationship. He believed that everything had worked out as it should in the end.

And then there were other things that didn’t change—the friendships, the joking, Slava’s bubbly positivity, the tradition of doing eyeliner with Johannes before a game… As Slava stood with his teammates, preparing to go out on the pitch, he savored the moment, hoping he would be able to remember this forever. Amina’s wink and thumbs up towards him were returned with a smile before Valentin began his speech—another consistency between games, but that never made it any less empowering.

Their captain took the time to speak to each of them individually, beginning with Madhup and then turning to Slava. The praise from his friend was something he truly took to heart, practically glowing with pride as he smiled at Valentin gratefully. “I will,” he promised, nodding. As Valentin continued around to the rest of the team, Slava listened intently, sharing in the positive sentiment. But when it got to Alaric, Valentin’s purposeful glance at Slava made the Russian avert his eyes, biting his lower lip. There were things Slava had done that he wasn’t proud of and he would readily admit that now, but he believed that had changed as a person because of that. He would be better now. He was better now, and he was determined not to make the same mistakes again.

He was able to shake the negativity off, though, as the attention shifted to other teammates before Valentin concluded his speech. Before the captain could leave, Slava quickly walked over to him and put a hand on his shoulder. “Thank you, Valya. It’s always an honor to play alongside you. I’ll miss this.” With a bright smile, he patted his friend on the back and continued on to the rest of their teammates, exchanging friendly physical contact and encouragement with anyone who allowed him to—including Madhup and Amina, who were doing something similar. Slava enjoyed every bit of positivity from the team, letting it contribute to his energy as they all got hyped up.

As the pre-game interactions were coming to an end, a little girl from the other team came over to wish them a good game. The Russian smiled encouragingly at her—it was sweet, but Madhup didn’t seem interested in entertaining such things. Slava, who was ever the optimist, tended to always give his friends the benefit of the doubt, even when he perhaps shouldn’t have. Madhup’s grin pushed Slava’s opinion of the words in a more positive direction, and he dismissed it as a joke—just a bit of fun. Slava gave the girl a small wave as she was about to leave and then turned back to his teammates, grinning at them a final time before taking to the sky. Game on.

ROUND 1

A note to all players: The word count minimum is 50 words. The next deadline to post and submit strategy is 120 hours from the time this is posted. If you believe a mistake has been made in the calculations of this round, please reach out to a quidditch moderator (any of the team captains/cocaptains) ASAP so it can be addressed promptly.

Team Durmstrang Snitch Find/Catch DC: 27 (wisdom) / 25 (accuracy)
Team Ilvermorny-Beauxbatons Snitch Find/Catch DC: 29 (wisdom) / 27 (accuracy)
Average Wisdom of Team 9 + 15 = 24 (Cheating DC for Team Ilvermorny-Beauxbatons)
Average Wisdom of Team 8 + 15: 23 (Cheating DC for Team Durmstrang)

Quaffle Grabs:

As the game began, the violent strategies were clear. However, the quaffle was not negleected, as three chasers raced to grab it. However, despite Ilvermorny's best efforts, Margarethe would snatch it out from under them each time, scoring a neat 50 points for Durmstrang straight out of the gate.

Reducio

Greta, Louca and Stephen are all quaffle-grabbing. Amber, Madhup and Amina are blatching (below). Johannes is on save duty, Phylicia is also blatching (below).

These accuracy rolls all have -1 due to charmers on both teams.

Grab 1:
Margarethe acc: 20 + 24 - 1 = 43
Louca acc: 10 + 7 - 1 = 16
Stephen acc: 7 + 14 - 1 = 20
Margarethe gets the quaffle and scores 10 points for Durmstrang!

Grab 2:
Margarethe acc: 15 + 24 - 1 = 38
Louca acc: 18 + 7 - 1 = 24
Stephen acc: 5 + 14 - 1 = 18
Margarethe gets the quaffle and scores 10 points for Durmstrang!

Grab 3:
Margarethe acc: 6 + 24 - 1 = 29
Louca acc: 16 + 7 - 1 = 22
Stephen acc: 11 + 14 - 1 = 24
Margarethe gets the quaffle and scores 10 points for Durmstrang!

Grab 4:
Margarethe acc: 5 + 24 - 1 = 28
Louca acc: 20 + 7 - 1 = 26
Stephen acc: 10 + 14 - 1 = 23
Margarethe gets the quaffle and scores 10 points for Durmstrang!

Grab 5:
Margarethe acc: 6 + 24 - 1 = 28
Louca acc: 8 + 7 - 1 = 14
Stephen acc: 4 + 14 - 1 = 17
Margarethe gets the quaffle and scores 10 points for Durmstrang!

Seekers

The seekers also both had very clear goals - to find the snitch. Valentin didn't take too long in finding the elusive snitch, but Kaya seemed to have a bit more trouble spotting where it had flown off to.

Reducio

Both seekers are searching for the snitch.

Valentin:
Keen eye (10): 5
Wis: 14 + 24 = 38
Valentin finds the snitch!

Kaya:
Wis: 2 + 12 = 14
Kaya does not find the snitch!

Beaters

It was almost fated how both Theodore and Slava would aim a bludger towards each other. Slava's bludger, however, would prove strong enough to knock Theodore off his broom, but Theodore's bludger didn't seem able to fell the Durmstrang beater. These hits both ricocheted to various targets, one to Miles, who bravely withstood Slava's mighty hit, and the other towards Valentin before Alaric quickly intercepted and took the hit instead.

Reducio

Slava is bludger backbeating Theodore, ricochet to Miles. Theodore is bludgering Slava, ricochet to Valentin. Miles is on save duty, Alaric is defending Valentin.

These accuracy rolls all have -1 due to charmers on both teams.

Slava is backbeating Theodore:
CP (10): 8
EM (10): 8
Slava acc: 11 + 26 - 1 + 5 = 41
Theodore acc: 20 + 19 = 39
Theodore is hit for 25*50=1250 damage and is KOB!

Ricochet to Miles:
CP (10): 10
EM (10): 1
Miles is hit for 25*50=1250 damage!

Theodore is bludgering Slava:
CP (10): 8
EM (9-10): 2
Theodore acc: 2 + 24 - 1 = 25
Slava eva: 9 + 10 = 19
Slava is hit for 10*75=750 damage!

Ricochet to Valentin Alaric:
CP (10): 5
Theodore acc: 9 + 24 - 1 = 32
Alaric eva: 5 + 9 = 14
Alaric is hit for 10*75=750 damage!

Blatchers:

Unsurprisingly, the field was also rife with cheating. Two from each team would try to take out others. Firstly, Amber would collide into Alaric, sending him tumbling until he was caught by the careful-eyed Johannes. Secondly, Madhup would blatch Louca and send him falling to be caught by Miles. Thirdly, Amina would ram into Phylicia, letting her tumble to the ground, with nobody able to save her.

"Hey! Cut it out guys! Amber, Madhup, Amina, go take a penalty lap!"

Reducio

Initiative: Amber (77), Madhup (66), Amina (65), Phylicia (41)

These accuracy rolls all have -1 due to charmers on both teams.

Amber is blatching Alaric:
CP (10): 5
Amber acc: 11 + 11 - 1 = 21
Alaric eva: 11 + 9 = 20
Alaric is blatched!

Madhup is blatching Louca:
CP (10): 9
Madhup acc: 11 + 22 - 1 = 32
Louca eva: 9 + 9 = 18
Foulplay (4): 3
Louca is blatched! Madhup must do a penalty lap next round.

Amina is blatching Phylicia:
CP (10): 3
Amina acc: 2 + 24 - 1 = 25
Phylicia eva: 2 + 16 = 18
Foulplay (4): 2
Phylicia is blatched! Amina must do a penalty lap next round.

Miles save:
Tatsu chose Louca to be saved.

Phylicia would take an action to blatch Slava, but has been KOB.

Outcome

- Margarethe scores 50 points for Durmstrang.
- Valentin spots the snitch.
- Kaya does not spot the snitch.
- Slava hits Theodore for 1250 damage, which makes him KOB.
- Slava hits Miles for 1250 damage, leaving him on 250 HP.
- Theodore hits Slava for 750 damage, leaving him on 50 HP.
- Theodore hits Valentin Alaric for 750 damage, leaving him on 250 HP.
- Amber blatches Alaric, who is saved by Johannes. Amber must do a penalty lap next round.
- Madhup blatches Louca, who is saved by Miles. Madhup must do a penalty lap next round.
- Amina blatches Phylicia, who is KOB. Amina must do a penalty lap next round.

Current Score
50 vs 0

Submitted Plays

Health and Post Tracker

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Very swift was the tempo of the battle that began within the moment of a fluttering of an eyelash. I had only nodded sternly to Valentin at his words with only a small “It won't be the same, but I have all the faith in the world in you all. Of course... That means you had better make me proud, doesn't it.” My request literal hours before the match--as we had been doing final warmups--to be turned over the second string had been one that had caused a stir, and how couldn't it have? I had given a bullshit excuse at the time, a sort of "I'll guide from below and be eyes outside the game" nonsense, but true rhyme for the reason was dug deeper down and locked in cast irons.

Even from Valentin.

Especially from Valentin.

“I believe in you too.” Came soft words again. “The sooner this game ends...” Unbidden thoughts of memory dredged themselves up from murky beds of contemplation so as to ripple through my mind in the form of insidious words that began to cloud the depths with the miasma of the sensation of finding oneself being scrutinized by a mind outside of one's self. “The sooner we can celebrate, right?”

And they were off. Four fell, two were caught (Alaric was perched on Jojo's broom, a curious twist of fate), and two--an eldest and an elder of the Keeping and Beating variety, respectively--struck the ground.

I only nodded with the binoculars hovering before my eyes, watching Slava shrug off his blow only mildly shaken and Alaric having taken a blow and a blatch but still fully in his senses. Durmstrang bred them tough. It always had.

“You Americans'll have to do way worse than that to kill a European dragon!” I catcalled unthinkingly to those remaining with a tense bite to my voice.

There were the green eyes. Green eyes, brown hair. My brother was there as my teammates fluttered unknowingly through my eyesight to him. He was sitting there and cheering gaily, wide and sparkling-eyed with a broad smile that was just as bright as anyone else's in his immediate vicinity--that jostling and undulating potpourri of a crowd that seemed an amoeba by all its own merits.

Ricochet: In the role of Beater, if you hit an opponent with a bludger the bludger will then ricochet off that user and target a second opponent of choice (must be declared, if not declared the target will be random and can be an ally but not yourself).
Riposte: In the role of Beater, if an ALLY dodges a bludger during the round, there is a 20% chance that you catch that bludger with your bat and you send it at a RANDOM enemy target.
Brutal Critical: In the role of Beater, if you critically hit with a bludger, instead of doing double-damage you do 2.5x damage. If you critically fail with your bludger attempt to hit, rather than having your bludger randomly target another user (including yourself or an ally) the bludger cannot target you on a critical fail (but it can still target your allies). On a re-target, there is a random roll for target and then a fresh accuracy roll.

Valentin would miss Slava when #6 moved on from Durmstrang, but this would not be that day. No, today was for basking in Slava’s glory. A distant cheer broke out from Val, who by ear alone could hear and understand the beater’s resounding successes and the thundering of the crowd that echoed them. With a wince the captain also heard when Slava took his share of aggression but clung to life with all the tenacity burning in his Horntail heart.

Near the end of the round Val would make an affirmative hand gesture towards Alaric for doing his duty, which went double for their loyal keeper who saved the valiant beater. Val was too focused on keeping the snitch in his sights to make any communications directly at people in the benches and stands, but if there was coverage from a spotter for the press or stadium’s live footage, Valentin would be seen laying his left hand over his heart where a snowdrop flower was pinned and mouthing the words in Russian, “I’ve seen it…”

Val’s excellent chasers would know that he was proud of every one of them without having to break his concentration on the snitch’s location. Greta had made a show of embarrassing two opposing chasers without seeming to break a sweat, while Durmstrang’s sneaky assassins had landed their hits… a bit more noticeably than desired, but still successfully.

Any camera footage would show Valentin’s glowing smile regardless of his ironclad focus, and so anyone with eyes could see his adoration for his team. Everyone was performing at a very high level and trusting in the team’s strategy even after that incident with the slug a few weeks prior.

Although the team captain had confidence that people would be able to unify for victory and act as one, Valentin had considered if Alaric would remain cooperative despite having to fly alongside Johannes and Slava… but what really troubled him was how the team’s morale would fare after both of their captains had subjected them to the Stygian horror of hag slug violence. While neither of them had intended any of it, there was still the question of maintaining solid enough trust after both captains fell under the thrall of what at first glance could have resembled overdramatic garden pests.

A couple of days after the team fight, once Romeo had recovered “enough,” Val asked the esteemed cook to help him prepare a dinner for the entire team in apology for inflicting the potentially traumatic event on them. Knowing that cooking was not his own strongest skill, Valentin offered to do the shopping for any ingredients Romeo would need. Luckily (or perhaps at Romeos’ insistence) Valentin was accompanied by his butler Sergei, who would do the active selection of items requested by Romeo, only allowing Valentin to carry said items lest Val’s horrific cooking logic doom the apology’s outcomes to a culinary warcrime. So it was that Romeo and Val presented a luxurious feast to the rest of the team, starring vegetable lasagna and non-vegetarian ravioli, ricotta cannoli, frittata, and a Caesar salad, all accompanied by savory sauces to die for. Still, no one had died during the slug battle – at least not for long. Was this absolute banquet of atonement overdoing it? Possibly. Valentin was sure to (over)compensate Astrid, as well, for ruining her favorite dress. Still, Valentin wanted to bring the whole team back together and re-instill trust in one-another by sharing a sumptuous group meal together. Luckily someone had the sense to keep Valentin away from the kitchen while the magic was being worked, but whether it was the wonder of Romeo’s home-cooked marvels, the evening itself, and/or the inherent strength of the team, any fallout from the slug battle was not readily apparent in the performance of their first string. Their second string, however…

Valentin was worried. He hadn’t known that Romeo would swap to second string until moments before the game, after the team strategy had already been roundly mapped out. The line Val was given as to why Romeo didn’t want to take first string sounded like a load of crock to him, but he still trusted Romeo as his co-captain. Regardless of what #4’s true motives were, Valentin grudgingly accepted them. Still, after the slugs had already been defeated, the last-second decision fomented great worry in the Frost Captain’s mind. Valentin’s face would remain placid on game day, not wanting to give tells to the enemy team nor Ilver-Beaux allies, but he was still deeply concerned for Romeo’s well-being and what it all meant.

In the end, though, Team Durmstrang was making a fine display of what their hard-earned skills could win. Every one on the team, and their friends in the stands, surely knew by now how much Val truly loved them. However much Valentin might have had on his mind before the match began, for now at least he was blissfully focused on the snitch and soaring on his faith in the power of love to conquer all.

Basic Stats (ENCY HERE):
STA 8 - EVA 20 - STR 3 - WIS 20 [24] - ARC 1 - ACC 17

Stats after Broom (+ACC/+EVA) and Comprehend Languages x2:
STA 8 - EVA 24 - STR 3 - WIS 24 - ARC 1 - ACC 21

Broom: Oakshaft 79; All seeker abilities selected

Abilities:
Keen Eye / Charmer / Evasive Maneuvers / Fearless / Comprehend Languages: Parseltongue & Veela
Charmer targets: Everyone on the Ilvermorny-Beauxbatons team

Doing as strategized. Dialogue is taking place in Russian. Val declared seeing the snitch.

𝙾𝚄𝚃𝙵𝙸𝚃: Reducio

│ │ │

▪ 𝙴𝙽𝙲𝚈 ▪ ▪ FELIX ▪ KOLBECK ▪ ▪ DURMSTRANG iNPC ▪ SIXTH YEAR ▪

│ │ │

𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙰𝙲𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂: Reducio @Evelynn Decipio as Greta @AngelFyre McCubbin as Stephen @Opeila Winters as Theo @Oonagh Brown as Senya @Piérre Marchonné as Romeo @Aida Mòrsgor-Ama Ellwood as Valentin

Senya was quite possibly the creepiest little twerp that the Swede had ever encountered. He had the same look plastered on his face as one of those cheap plastic caroler Christmas decorations that muggles seemed to insist on putting out every year.

Thank fuck he was seated next to Astrid. She could handle it after almost being tongue fed slugs by Romeo, right?

Felix shouldn't have been surprised that Valentin wanted to give the group a pep talk before the start of the game, but he was not used to this type of team work on the Dueling team, it reminded him more of his time on the Hexwizard team, although Yefim had been a bit terrifying at times.

He was even more surprised when Valentin took time to speak to him. He was only second string, right? It wasn't like the team needed him that badly, so long as they were doing their job and protecting Greta.

He could hardly look Valya in the eye when he started up with his mushy shit, the Swede turning his head to hide his slight blush. He was not used to being complimented and it felt weird. Usually he was the one telling himself that he was great. "Fuck, Val... You're going to ruin my rep if you keep talking that like." Felix grumbled, but the captain might have known him well enough to see he was thankful for his kind words.

Greta, the bright ray of sunshine she was, entered the scene she was hopped up on some sort of potion or sugar high. It wasn't his fault this time; he hadn't given her any snow cones that morning. He had actually tried to avoid her all together after what went down during the Mistletoe event, where he had lost control and kissed her. Maybe she was taking the kiss better, considering how many of their team mates she was now kissing. Right, sometimes friends kissed and that was okay-- His entire face burned red when Greta leaned in to plant a kiss on his cheek.

"I--I'll always catch you." Oh Merlin, kill him now and dig him a shallow grave, that was the nerdiest fucking thing he could have said. He wanted to hide his face in his hands, melt into the bench and disappear forever.

Eventually he managed to glance up to watch the game. There were a few familiar faces on the other team, none of which were pleasant memories. There was mannequin head (Stephen) flying around up there like he had learned an extra strength holding charm for the piece of plastic he passed off as hair. Lover Boy (Theo) who dared to speak with the team's Valkyrie. He didn't even deserve to look at her for an extended period of time, let alone talk to her.

When he realized Slava had succeeded in knocking Kissy Lips (Theo) off of his broom, he could only jump up and cheer. He winced when Slava was almost knocked down, luckily, with a red streak of hair, Amina swooped in to scoop him up safe and sound.

It looked like his team didn't need his help.

english | russian

Looking at the faces around her, Amina felt so proud that she was part of this amazing team, full of ice and fire. She had never felt more at home in her entire life. This was where she belonged. Although empathy wasn’t her greatest strength, she felt the tension, excitement and focus around her. Some expressed it by a silent smile, like her friend Slava, others seemed more like her: About to explode with their need for blood, like her fellow chasers.
Since she felt like she couldn’t keep her feet on the ground a moment longer, Felix's teasing remark was a welcome relief of the tension she felt. With a wide grin she rolled her eyes at him. “Duh, flies are a good protein snack.” It was nice having him back around. Her teasing was her love language and sometimes she felt like he understood.

Before she could reflect more on this feeling, Valentin began his speech and the redhead's focus was all on him. As he addressed them one by one, Amina’s green eyes fell on every team member he spoke to. The looks they exchanged, their reactions to him and amongst each other.
Suddenly she had a sinking feeling in her stomach and a slight twinge in her chest. The realization hit her unprepared and unexpected, with this display of affection and team spirit - and history. It had never been so clear before: These people, her friends and family, had known each other for years and for the most part had several games under their belts as a team. They had history together, many, many bonding experiences and almost all one best friend or loved one they trusted with their emotions or expressions in those situations.
She had only been here for two years and this was her first official game. In those two years, she had spent almost all her time on the broom and trained hard. She had missed out on so much. Through her own fault and the fact that she had joined later. Was what she felt sadness and jealousy?
She knew that many of these people loved her and knew that she loved them back, but she had no special someone, no best friend, no confidant at that level. Was she second-string to all of them when it came to that? Did they all have a trusted first string?

Amina had carefully hidden her feelings, which were so strange and really impractical in terms of timing, behind her concentrated poker face.
When Valentin addressed her, she grinned back automatically and couldn't help but giggle when he remarked that she would send the other team home crying. Damn right he was!
However, she didn't really understand the second part. What feeling? Huh? But she saw the whole picture and felt the pressure on her chest ease. He trusted her, he was counting on her.
Amina stood up straight and gripped her broom tighter. “Aye, aye, captain. I won't let you down. Thank you for giving me the chance to show that.” Her last words were directed at the whole team. And she meant it. This was probably the first time they saw her genuine and serious and not teasing and joking.

She took a deep breath and the strange feeling vanished completely when Valentin had finished his speech and she found herself in the group hug with Madhup and Greta, roaring and chanting with them and their captain. Her heart felt warm again. The presence and physical closeness of the two of them always reassured her. When Greta gave her a kiss on the cheek, Amina was inspired and did the same for the two Chasers.
Riding her emotional rollercoaster to the fullest, she embraced the adrenalin and energy with wide arms as it rushed over her. For the first time, she looked at the other team that they were about to play and thus missed Greta’s peck for Felix. Good for him, that just deprived her of another string of sassy remarks about tomatoes and stuff.
Her eyes scanned the people in front of her. It was partially her old school so she wouldn’t be too surprised to see familiar faces.
She actually recognised a person (Stephen (@AngelFyre McCubbin)), but not from her school days. Wasn't that the boy they had pranked with Felix at a ball a few years ago? She grinned at him and waved.

But enough of the long prelude. Now it was time to get down to business.
With a final “Let's go!” she swung onto her broom and shot off. All the players flew into the air like bullets and, sticking close to Greta's broom tail, she was the first to witness her colleague's brilliant play. Amina shouted cheers to her over the wind and then circled around to join Madhup. Her instructions were clear.
Amina grinned. She was completely in her element. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught Slava's brilliant attacks and flinched slightly when he collected the return carriage. But he seemed to be fine. For now.
She knew she didn't need to worry about Valentin, so her gaze didn’t wander in that direction. As a result, she also missed Alaric's fall, which was intercepted by Johannes. Her eyes were firmly fixed on her victim.
Close to Madhup's side, she shot across the pitch and saw her colleague collide with someone else. The rumble she heard told her that he had been successful. But she didn't have time to look, only for a smirk. Her target was moving quite directly towards Slava.
Amina stepped up another gear, determined not to let what she feared the other person was up to happen.
She shot into the flight path at full speed and rammed the girl hard with her shoulder. “Not on my watch!!!” She was so fast that the physical contact did barely slow her down. Hence she didn’t stick around to comment the girl's fall.
With grim satisfaction Amina watched their doom. She definitely profited from the fact that her family also played ice hockey. Quidditch was a physical sport to her. It was part of the game. She didn’t feel sorry, but proud.

As always, the ref didn’t agree with her point of view. As she was sent to do a lap, she took the time to give Slava a wide grin and a thumbs up, before she joined Madhup who also was sent to take an extra round. “Totally worth it!” She offered a high five to Maddy. Her gaze was bursting with affection. They probably shared the tendency to choose violence more than most people.

Interacting | mostly everyone

Action: Doing as strategized
Stats: STA: 9 | EVA: 17 (+4 from broom) | STR: 8 | WIS: 6 | ARCP: 2 | ACC: 17 (+3 from Muggle Condition + 4 from Broom = +7 total)
Broom: Oakshaft 79 (+4 to both Accuracy and Evasion)
Taking all broom abilities used for chaser role
Abilities: Muggle Condition | Fearless | Foulplay | Lovely Creature (Allies: all Durmstrang Team Members, Enemies: Team Ilvermorny-Beauxbatons) | Evasive Maneuvers

Valentin (@Aida Mòrsgor-Ama Ellwood)

Semyon sat on the bench, his fingers fiddled with the sprig of silver fir, binding it around the broom where bristle met stick, careful not to mess with the colorful Gladioli flowers in the meantime. He knew of the message that came with it 'Good Luck' in a way. He was aware and so was Valentin, the Seeker had been confident in the delivery and surely would have known the message would be received clearly.

After the game, after their victory, the Russian boy knew already he would be spending time with pressing the sprig of fir and the Gladioli between pages of heavy books. They would have done their job by then, served their purpose for this game. But their worth would remain and thus they would be pressed and dried, preserved for eternity. But the game hadn't ended yet, it had been started and so his gaze went to the sky, observing those in the air. They appeared smaller due to the distance, they appeared familiar like insects in flight perhaps. Which would make chasers the workers, beaters the nest warriors and the seeker the queen. Well at least if one considered bee logic for this, however there were many constructs, each more complex and Semyon would figure out which one suited this team most.

His gaze narrowed, noticing the change. As Valentin reached for his chest, where Semyon knew the snowdrop flower had been pinned, the boy sat up, gaze narrowed in an attempt to spot what Valentin had already seen, though his gaze betrayed him. His hand fell flat to the edge of the bench and gripped it carefully. His eyes watching those who were falling emptily. Four fell, two from the opposing team dropped indefinitely, one was caught to be sharing a broom and one of the younger ones on Valentin's team was also caught, sharing a broom now. 'Hanya' and Alaric.

Durmstrang was playing aggressively, fierce. But from the records he had seen of previous summer matches this came to no surprise to him. The last match they had left their entire opposition defeated, knocked off.

STATS - BROOM
Sta 5 | Eva 10 | Str 0 | Wis 10 | Arc 0 | Acc 10 (14) - Firebolt

Reducio

In the role of Keeper when you attempt to block your goal, if your opponent somehow has advantage on attempting to score a goal, that is negated (they only have their normal single roll against you).

In the role of Keeper a critical success on an attempt to block a goal not only means that the Keeper caught the quaffle but they have also successfully passed the quaffle (without a chance of interception) to an allied target of their choice. A critical failure in this case cannot happen for a Keeper, they get to re-roll the attempt to block.

Note: Critical failure and critical success chances can be expanded with certain abilities and skills

Abilities - Health
Impartial - 500/500 HP

Interacting with Val (@Aida Mòrsgor-Ama Ellwood), Greta (@Evelynn Decipio),
Amina (@Ileen Knight), Slava (@Ruby Cazares), Felix (@Winnie Harper), Louca

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	Few things set Madhup at ease quite like Quidditch. One wouldn't think it, watching the way he lashed out at opponents who came too close and roared alongside his teammates, but he loved nothing more than being lost to thrill. The boisterous behavior of allies, the thunderous roar of the crowd (both in their favor and against them), noise and action drowned out every little negativity nipping at the heels of his confidence. His smile was one of unwavering aplomb as he honed in on Val's words, letting his sweet voice wash over the deathless one which told him time and again: you don't belong here. It hounded him through the pristine halls of the Hexum manor, gnawed on the fringe of his subconscious when he caught himself checked-out in class, drew blood when he fumbled dialogue. He couldn't hear it above the stadium's spirit. Mad wore a confident smirk as Val praised his loyalty and commitment, growth and cleverness, consciously willing himself to believe everything and more. There was nowhere he belonged more than on the pitch, a fact he was reminded of every time Durmstrang demonstrated that the love of their team matched their ferocity for its enemies. Honningbie rolled a wrist theatrically as he dropped into an exaggerated bow of gratitude. "You have a gold tongue, kapitan: words not sharp as silver, but of greater worth and beauty." Faux humility and grace set aside, he stood and sneered "Ready for the chase." When Greta pecked him on the cheek, he gently pinched hers, and When Amina did the same, he leaned to lightly bump their brow together. He walked off loudly sighing something about not washing his face again, fanning both cheeks with his hands. As he passed Slava, he reached to ruffle their Beater's curls, only to squeeze an arm while remarking on the "biceps of a killer!" Felix was sought on the benches, and if Mad caught his eye, he'd send their fourth Chaser a farewell salute. Madhup drew an amulet from under his jersey, kissing whatever lucky talisman was at the end of it before tucking it away again. Number Nine launched off in tandem to his team. As they soared a loop of the pitch, he gripped the front of his broom and hopped up on his boots, nimbly landing a surf pose to flaunt his flying skills. Coasting by Hogwarts' stands- instead of flipping them all double birds for the first time in his Quidditch career- he pressed the tips of his fingers to his lips and blew cheeky kisses. The Chaser could only hope that somewhere out there, a pair of aquamarine eyes caught the performance (@Dealla Prince). The game began. Cheek and cockiness bled away, sly focus taking their place, gunmetal-green gaze turning from Greta to Amina in wordless indication. They all had roles, though the three remained a unit even when apart. Greta's scores were clear as the cheers from Durmstrang's bleachers. Amina's attack was met with a contrasting swell of devastated howls from their opponents. He chose his target in turn: a scrawny-looking Chaser, not really his "type", but Chasers were one of the most flexible pieces on the board. Mad sat firm in the saddle, bracing his body for the impending sting of impact. Violence was his strength, his strength was his worth, and for that he learned to love it. Later he could act pitiful, pleading and puppydog-eyeing Jo (@Astrea Soleil Neptune) as he asked for help applying bruise paste. For now he had to be heartless. Teeth clenched and bared, he picked up speed, leaning a little too close to Louca as he "passed by". The hard impact of their shoulders gave a satisfyingly sickening thud. Mad didn't slow until he heard the moderator calling him out, at which point he raised his arms in a wide shrug, half-assedly arguing "Ohhh nooo, but he got in my wayyy." There was a greediness to his eyes as they backtracked, hoping to find his victim sprawled out on the ground, only to narrow at the sight of his safety. They rolled in disappointment, then redirected ahead as he relented to the penalty. As Amina rejoined him, her high-five brought back his grin, dispelling the bitter taste of a botched blatch. Her pride and ferocity bolstered his own and he cherished her for it. Durmstrang's Assassins, Val called them, and they reveled in the designation. "Mine was caught," Mad lamented, pointing an accusatory finger after Louca and his savior. His absolute lack of remorse was made all the clearer as he nonchalantly suggested, "Maybe I'll finish the job after our lap."
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Action: As strategized. Calming Presence allies: all of Team Durmstrang

Reducio

Broom: Varápidos, Special Action: Enganação. This literally means "cheat" and is a basically the art of sleight of hand for Brazilian Quiddich players. All subsequent attempts to cheat have a 10% automatic "not noticed by the spectators" effect. (Stacks with Foulplay)

(Standard) STA: 9 | EVA: 15 | STR: 18 | WIS: 3 | ARC: 3 | ACC: 19
(Varápidos) STA: 12 | EVA: 18 | STR: 21 | WIS: 6 | ARC: 6 | ACC: 22

Foulplay: 25% chance that fouls will go unnoticed
Interception: Automatic chance to Intercept a passed quaffle
Fearless: Immunity to fear effects such as terrible presence
Calming Presence: Allies gain a 10% chance to auto-hit their chosen target
Muggle Condition: +3 accuracy roll on non-magical attacks and actions
Martial Artist: gains access to Punch, Grapple, Kick, and Chokehold

Durmstrang | Year 7 | Height: 5' 2"

Russian‏‏‎ | Swedish‏‏‎ | Norwegian‏‏‎ | English

Greta's gaze wouldn't stay upon Theo for long. As the rest of the players settled into their starting positions and a baited silence of anticipation fell over the stadium, the little Valkyrie pulled her focus back upon the referee and quaffle, readying herself for the start. Whatever had happened over the previous day and the dream-like insanity that was the Mistletoe Spin (particularly as it is yet ongoing and I do not know everything that is to have transpired by this moment in time) would have to wait. The game took priority and it would require her utmost focus and attention.

With a steadying breath, she lowered her gaze, fixing it upon the quaffle, the object of her adoration for the next.... at least five minutes. Probably. After that impassioned speech, it was clear that Niffy was feeling much more like himself now. A fire had been lit within him, blazing with an assurance that she'd not seen for some time, no doubt thanks to the passenger he'd been keeping with him previously. Who knows how long this game would last. If he had anything to say about it, she'd surely be lucky to get half a dozen attempts on the opposing hoops. Which just meant that she would have to pit herself in a race against her own seeker and command at least ten.

As soon as the whistle sounded, Greta bolted forward. In a blur of red and black, she cut between the opposing seekers for the quaffle. There was no contest. The initial lead was so great that she couldn't even have been certain if they'd even realized the game had started. Not that she cared. With a roar of "FOR DURMSTRANG!", the little Norwegian flashed across the pitch to close the distance on the Ilverbatons goal hoops, letting loose the quaffle to sail unquestionably through the unguarded center hoop.

She would waste no time speeding back into position for the reset. When Niff was on the field, every second counted. There wouldn't even be a moment spared to take stock of how the others were doing. There was no need to. The hammering of feet in the stands and deafening cheers or collective ululations told her everything she needed to know. Her brothers (and sister) were doing everything they needed to to seize control and turn momentum to their side. Her job, she assured herself as she again and again took possession of the quaffle, was to ensure the opposition couldn't score freely against them.

If they wanted their points, they would have to pry them from her grip.

Action: doing as strategised

STA | 5‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‎ STR | 1‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‎ EVA | 20 (24)‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‎ WIS | 12‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‎ ARC | 12‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‏‏‎ ‎ ‎ ACC | 20 (24)

Perfectionist | Calming Presence [Allies: Durmstrang] | Lovely Creature
Spell Spread | Wandmaker [Thunderbird] | Fearless

Oakshaft 79: +4 Eva, +4 Acc, abilities in reducio

Reducio

In the role of Chaser, as a free action if the user of this broom is successful in the quafflegrab they can as a free action pass the Quaffle to another user in an attempt to score. There is a chance of the quaffle being intercepted, however due to the fact that the user is "so fast" with the quaffle this would be considered "surprising" and the attempt to score would be done at +3 accuracy by the player it was passed to in an attempt to score.
(Note: The attempt to score would be an automatic attempt by the user that catches the passed quaffle.)

In the role of Chaser, if you have a contested quaffle grab and a contested strength roll between yourself and another user is in progress, unless they have the same broom, you would be the victor of the contested quaffle grab. In addition, rounds where you are successfully carrying the quaffle in an attempt to score, you only take half-damage from bludgers and blatching attempts.

If the following isn't allowed, the third selection will just be the other Chaser ability.
In the role of Seeker, if an opponent attempts to Bludger or Blatch you, there is a 20% chance that you veer out of the way the last second and another enemy player at RANDOM is targeted instead.
(Note: The new target still gets their normal dodge attempt. This is not considered to be an auto-dodge, in fact this roll is done before any accuracy rolls are done.)

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Date: August 3rd, 2024	Word Count: 79/50	Outfit: Reducio An Ilvermorny Quidditch robe.

I winced at the violence as the game started. There were a lot of fouls, with two people already knocked off their brooms. Luckily, Kaya had not been damaged and was fine. I did not want to get out there and get injured. As much as Quidditch was fun, I didn't want to almost die doing it. This was getting scary. And Durmstrang was already up 50 points. How we would ever win this was a mystery to me.

Stats: Stamina 7| Evasion 7| Strength 3| Wisdom 6| Arcane Power 5| Accuracy 7
Abilities: The Muggle Condition
Broom: Nimbus 1001