"So you're really serious about this Quidditch game stuff. You're like an athlete," Howard says in a tone that one usually reserves for people who pick their nose in public. But then he lightens up a fraction. "I guess that means you're pretty fit, though. I've been getting into shape, running and stuff."

He shakes his head. "No, we're awful at it. But it's not really our fault. Spacey Stacy doesn't give us near enough information to organize jack. And if you ask too many questions, the Daligig break your legs."