Harry's first impression of Barty Crouch was not very good, but he could understand why Percy admired him so much that he often mentioned his superior's name at home.
This was a man who all but had the words "serious" and "meticulous" carved into his face.
His suit was spotless and perfectly neat. His carefully combed hair and moustache, which looked as though it had been trimmed against a ruler, all showed what a meticulous man he was.
Around fifty, he still stood ramrod straight and kept himself in excellent shape, without a trace of flab on his stomach. By comparison, Mr. Weasley, who was somewhat younger, was not fat either, but had already developed a slight paunch.
Crouch seemed to be on good terms with both Mr. Weasley and Mr. Diggory, and the three exchanged a few pleasantries. Then his gaze fell-fell on Harry.
His gaze was sharp as he looked Harry up and down.
Harry disliked that look. It made him feel as though the man were a law enforcement officer scrutinizing a prisoner.
Barty Crouch did not speak to Harry or the others. After greeting Mr. Weasley and Mr. Diggory, he left.
"That's the man who nearly became Minister for Magic? That's the sort of man Percy admires?" Harry asked Bill beside him.
Although Bill looked incredibly cool and seemed at first glance like he would be a troublemaker, he was actually very mild-mannered.
He, Percy, and Charlie had arrived only a little later than Harry and the others. By the time Harry and the others woke up, the three had already played several games of wizard's chess nearby.
Bill was very good at it and had an excellent mind. Out of that whole crowd, nobody but Ron could beat him. Well, when Ron took it seriously,