*41

Fury was initially taken aback and instinctively wanted to refuse.

For an organization like S.H.I.E.L.D., the confidentiality of intelligence and strict access control are paramount.

If Hermione were granted access, wouldn't all secrets be exposed?

However, he paused. Initially, it was just a reflexive thought. Upon reflection, it didn't seem entirely unreasonable.

Hermione might be interested in novel things, but she posed no real threat. Plus, there were many unverified items within S.H.I.E.L.D., like Item No. 084... perhaps Hermione could shed some light.

After careful consideration, Fury nodded, "Alright, I agree."

"So... when can you come to S.H.I.E.L.D. again? I'd like to select a few 'good students' for you."

He sounded eager.

Since her last prophecy, Hermione hadn't visited S.H.I.E.L.D., leaving a gap in their intelligence gathering.

While her powerful magic yesterday was intriguing, the knowledge of the mystical realm was even more crucial.

"Not in the next few days," Hermione replied, "there's a Quidditch match soon, and I'm a Beater for Gryffindor. Let's wait until the competition is over."

"Quidditch?"

The three of them asked in unison.

"Well... didn't I mention it?" Hermione blinked, then gave a brief explanation.

To her surprise, Tony and Pepper were fascinated by Quidditch.

The unique wizarding sport seemed exciting, with its intriguing gameplay.

Pepper even asked, "Can we watch you play?"

"It's a bit tricky. You can't enter Hogwarts... Wait, I have an idea!" Hermione's eyes lit up.

Minutes later, as Hermione and Tony continued their animated discussion, Fury sighed and gripped his pager.

He had a feeling that with Tony Stark's public identity as Iron Man, more super-crises would emerge, making the Avengers Initiative urgent.

---

**Hogwarts, Quidditch Stadium**

Today marked the annual Inter-House Quidditch Match, with Gryffindor facing Slytherin.

In the changing area, Hermione and her six teammates donned red and gold uniforms.

Each held a broom, with Hermione and George also wielding bats.

She discreetly released a mini drone, ensuring no one noticed. Hermione smiled to herself.

Harry quietly approached, tugging Hermione's sleeve, whispering:

"Do you have time later?"

Hermione replied calmly, "What's up?"

Harry said directly, "Ron and I discovered something recently and need your help."

"Sure," Hermione agreed. "Meet me in the library after the game."

With her agreement, Harry felt relieved.

Recently, many perplexing things had troubled him. Despite discussing it with Ron, they were stumped.

In his frustration, Ron suggested, why not consult the brilliant Hermione?

Just that suggestion made Harry pause.

Yes, when in doubt, ask Hermione. That's their go-to!

Think?

Think nonsense!

Better to chat with Ron and gossip about Snape!

Hermione glanced at Harry.

She wasn't sure what he wanted, but today her focus was on the game. Her sole goal was to win, bringing victory to Gryffindor!

With preparations complete, both teams headed to the field.

The oval stadium was packed with teachers and students. As the teams prepared to play, the crowd erupted in cheers.

"Gryffindor! Gryffindor! Gryffindor!"

"Slytherin! Slytherin! Slytherin!"

Feeling the electric atmosphere, Hermione marveled at Hogwarts' love for Quidditch.

Harry motioned to Hermione, pointing to the Gryffindor stands.

Ron, Neville, Seamus, and others waved and shouted encouragement.

Though drowned in the crowd's roar, Hermione understood their cheers.

Come on.

Listening to the cheers, Hermione felt a surge of excitement, adrenaline coursing through her veins.

It was reminiscent of watching the World Cup in her previous life.

Hermione gripped her broom tightly.

She once thought those emotions were lost after traveling through time, replaced by ambition and the pursuit of strength. But now, she realized that wasn't entirely true.

Wood glanced at Harry, "Nervous?"

Harry nodded.

"It's okay, I was too my first time."

"And then?"

"Then... then I don't remember. I got knocked out by a Bludger two minutes in and spent a week in the hospital."

Harry gulped.

Nice reassurance, Wood, thanks.

"This time, I hope not to get knocked out again," Wood added, eyeing Hermione. But she wasn't paying attention, instead swinging her bat and eyeing the opposition.

Wood felt a pang of anxiety.

Hermione better remember that Beaters not only disrupt the other team but also protect their own!

Don't forget!

"Welcome the teams!"

On the commentary platform, Lee Jordan, a young black man, announced with a loudspeaker.

As the commentator spoke, players mounted their brooms, soaring skyward, circling the field before hovering directly above for the face-off.

"Today's match: Gryffindor vs. Slytherin!"

Commentator Lee Jordan introduced the players one by one.

Each introduction was met with cheers.

When he reached Gryffindor, he paused, "This match features two first-year rookies: Harry Potter... and the renowned 'Library Witch,' Hermione Granger!"

With "Library Witch," the crowd—barring Slytherin—erupted with even louder cheers.

Senior Wood chuckled, "Seems you're quite popular."

The Weasley twins chimed in, "Of course, the most beautiful and talented first-year. Who wouldn't like her? Even our Ron..."

Hermione shot them a glare.

Though she hadn't actively built her popularity, her beauty and magical prowess earned her many fans.

Despite her reserved demeanor, many found it appealing.

The more mysterious and aloof, the more intriguing.