Ch 11
Fire with Fire
Headmistress McGonagall and Minister Shacklebolt immediately apparated onto the Tournament's center field. They expected a dramatic arrival from The Volturi. However, no one anticipated The Volturi to walk directly into a dragon's pit. Did they purposely want to incite war?
"Hargrid! Do not release the dragons!" bellowed McGonagall. Her commanding voice was instantly cut off by a soft chuckle.
"Dragons, is it? How considerate of you to welcome us with beasts that breathe fire." the voice emanated from the dark Robe. It's timbre was both soothing and unquestionably threatening. The entire stadium waited in silence, nearly hypnotized by the Volturi's presence.
"A dragon is traditionally released to guard a golden clue. This first task is to test the bravery of each Triwizard Champion." Shacklebolt's deep voice reverberated, emphasizing tradition.
"Of course. I'm sure you did not intend offense, Minister." Casius smoothed over. His eyes darted to the Champion's tents. "Bravery," he mused before returning his attention to his prey.
"I propose that we use one of our own, to guard this golden clue." a smile formed. McGonagall stepped forward, as if her presence could protect the entire audience. She stuttered at the absurdity. "To expose our students to someone who might Turn or kill is-"
"Barbaric? No less than the dragons, dear Headmistress." Marcus simply replied, adding to his brother's hidden glee.
In unison, the three hooded figures turned away. A brief moment of tension to sank in.
"It is apparent you do not trust our kind. There is no room for compromise nor a trial after all. Let us depart, brothers. We have overstayed our welcome." Marcus whispered.
War.
"Compromise. You believe it is possible for our worlds to compromise. That is the reason you have travelled here." Shacklebolt challenged, biding his time. He needed to make sure students were evacuated before this situation worsened. The figures stopped dead in their tracks. Without so much as turning around, they stated their conditions:
"We assume you are aware of our historical duels, prior to Dumbledore's Treaty of Differential Interference." one voice said.
"We thus permit you to use the Protegos Potion on your Champions, and cast a Binding Spell on the opponent vampire" a second voice concluded.
"Wizarding-vampiric duels? The potion and binding charm disappear within minutes." McGonagall was horrified at the implications.
"Where is the bravery if there is no danger?" Casius contended.
This time Shacklebolt stepped forward. He alone carried the authority of a veteran Auror of The Phoenix, and Minister of Magic. His bold eyes bore into the faceless masks, as if he could see directly into their crimson eyes.
"Our Triwizard Champions have not consented to participate in this kind of danger. If Hogwarts is to host a 'Tournament of substitutes', then I suggest we compromise all the way. You may chose a representative to guard the clue. In turn, the Champions may elect substitutes to act on their behalf." Shacklebolt countered. This was the best he could offer. War would be the next option left.
"What a pretty girl. And a wonderful decision, Minister." Aro finally spoke, with a tone much quieter than his two brothers. It forced chills down Shacklebolt's spine. Aro's crimson eyes remained focused on the gray gaze. The one next to Jasper Hale.
