Disclaimer - I do not own Harry Potter.

A Different Professor

Chapter 25 - Welcome to Hogwarts

Great Hall – Breakfast

Harry slumped into his seat at the Gryffindor table. Despite their active summer, he had been ridiculously out of shape at the beginning of the year. He glanced toward the twins to see them drooping in their oatmeal, it wouldn't surprise him if one of them fell asleep in the bowl. They had all done it before. All of the students chosen for the school teams were exhausted. Wood and Flint were working them hard. They were just starting to get used to their grueling schedule. Between classes, homework and practices they didn't have time for much else.

All in all, Harry was pleased with the choices. Most players were from the former house teams and those who hadn't played before were quite good. They had yet to field the actual teams as they were experimenting with the line ups. The only thing they did know was the seeker placement. Harry and Cedric were the starting seekers. Due to Cedric's plan to enter the tournament, and his decision to quit the team if he was chosen, Draco would be his alternate, while Cho would be Harry's. Harry was pleased with the arrangement. He thought Draco was the stronger flier and he thought Cedric had a good chance of becoming the Hogwarts Champion.

Harry had requested to speak to Wood and Flint after the first practice; Draco and the twins had stayed to support him. They had explained their suspicions about Harry possibly being entered in the tournament. Oliver had instantly gotten it. He had started swearing, cursing magic for leaving him with Cho as his starting seeker. Harry had quickly assured him he had no plans to quit.

Flint had looked reflective. A part of him didn't want to believe what they students were saying but he couldn't shake the feeling that they were right. "You're sure you can handle both?" He had asked after listening to them reassure Wood.

Harry had answered honestly. "No, but I am not going to let someone ruin my life. I want to play quidditch against the foreign teams. It will be a new experience and after the World Cup I started to seriously consider playing professionally. I can't take a year off if I am going to go professional."

His answer was perhaps the quickest way to earn Marcus Flint's support. If there was one thing he understood, it was working hard for a chance at going pro.

Madam Hooch had, of course, been at the staff meeting where Professor Snape warned the staff of his suspicions so she was not surprised. The only thing she asked was that they keep their suspicions away from the rest of the team. She felt there was no need to worry anyone if it turned out they were wrong.

So, Harry and the other quidditch diehards had been pushed. Wood had insisted of improving their physicality; apparently Puddlemere insisted on their players working out for an hour a day outside of general practices. The coaches had decided that they would adopt this system because of the success Oliver had had with it.

It was the third Friday of October, one week before the foreign students arrived and one day before the first match of the quidditch tournament. The first game for all three schools would be played at their respective schools. This was because the first game would be a match between their two teams. It was like a practice match but the winner would have a point added to their overall standings in the tournament.

The players had been announced the day after the tryout. They had had two-hour practices every day after classes the first week. These had been designed to get the students acquainted with their new equipment. The makers of the Firebolt and Firebolt Junior had struck again. They had decided to sponsor the inter-school quidditch competition. Each player was gifted a Firebolt Junior. They had an additional deal with Quality Quidditch. Firebolt bought new armor and beaters bats from the store for all players. The only thing the kids had to do was give an honest review detailing their experience and thoughts on the broom. Each player would get to keep the broom and custom equipment.

Harry had felt funny about getting to keep the broom. He already had a free Firebolt Junior, he didn't need a second. Madam Hooch spoke to the representative from Firebolt and they decided that Harry could auction off one of the brooms. Proceeds of the sale would go a charity benefitting children. Harry had jumped at the idea and had instantly written Narcissa to ask what charity he should donate to. Cedric had asked if he could do the same with his second Firebolt Junior. The Firebolt rep had been ecstatic. They would be auctioning the brooms off after the first game.

The first Saturday practice had been their first day of torture. Push-ups, sit-up, jumping jacks, and laps. By the end of the first hour of practice, most players were physically done. Then Madam Hooch had gleefully introduced weight training. Of course they couldn't leave because they still hadn't done any flying and they still needed to determine the actual team line-ups.

At the end of their long Saturday practice they were informed they were required to meet every morning, before breakfast, to do their morning warm up. They would continue their daily practices for the time being; two hours after classes Monday through Friday, a five-hour practice on Saturday and a two-hour practice on Sunday. There would be additional practices for individual positions as needed.

Now, more than a month later, they were still unsure of the exact line-ups. Madam Hooch, Flint and Wood had decided they would pick the teams the day before the match, that very night. This would ensure that the players worked well with everyone and were adaptable. That said, the alternates knew they were alternates from day one.

Hermione rubbed Harry's back. "How are you holding up?"

"I'm okay. I would be better if I hadn't stayed up so late finishing homework but it was necessary so I can't complain too much. Leave it to Professor Snape to give a two-foot essay on ingredient reactions while Madam Hooch is trying to kill us. It would be extremely helpful if the teachers stopped burying us in homework. The homework, paired with the excessive practice schedule is really tiring me out."

"Wood and Flint said the practice schedule would lighten up after the first match. I think you said it would drop to three nights after school, the same practice on Saturday and Sunday would just be positional practices. It will get better."

"I know. I'm just tired. How is Neville doing with his research?"

Neville had been chosen for the Herbology team. He was actually the lead for the pair.

"He is doing great. I think being chosen, and you telling him to stop questioning himself, has really brought him into his own. He was better last year, but this year I think Neville is really going to surprise the school."

"And how are you doing?"

"I am enjoying myself. I understand why I wasn't chosen for a team. I am a great student overall and I read ahead because I get bored if I don't, but I was not prepared to handle being three years ahead of my year. Professor Babbling was right not to pick me. My practical work may have been superb and nearly on par with the other candidates but my knowledge base just wasn't there; I have Remus to thank for that. I am honored that she asked me to help with quizzing and research. I love that I get to help and that I am not a detriment to the school's chances of winning."

"Speaking of research, how is your research into the past Triwizard tournaments going?"

Hermione had wallowed for a few days after they were told about the tournament. After that, she had dived right into research mode. She had explained that the best way to prepare was to research past tournaments. They may be changing a few rules to make it safer but the organizers would have to look at past tournaments to plan this one as there were no living witnesses of the previous tournaments.

"Better. After coming up with basically nothing in the library I contacted aunt Narcissa. She sent me some books from the Black library. Those have some great information."

"Anything we should be concerned about?"

"Traditionally, there is three events but there have been tournaments with additional events for the champions, apparently that depends of the Headmasters. One event almost always has the contestants facing off with a dangerous creature. They don't have to defeat it, as all those creatures generally require a group of highly trained wizards to contain, but they do have to get in the ring with it. Sometimes you have to get passed the creature, other times you have to retrieve something the creature is guarding."

"Is any creature more likely than the others?"

Hermione smiled, he knew her too well. "I have been keeping a tally. I have to assume they won't be bringing in the most dangerous, and by that I mean the ones who caused the most deaths in the past. You won't be facing a cockatrice, as that one killed all of the contestants, a portion of the audience and two Headmasters when it was chosen. They also won't choose a Nundu or a Basilisk. It is a toss-up which is more dangerous with those two which says something because a Basilisk can kill you with eye contact." Harry made a mental note to never go looking for a Nundu.

"Considering what we know the school has access to, I would hazard a guess that they would use a Cerberus, but if you get chosen that is rather stupid as you know how to calm Fluffy. There are also the spiders in the Acromantula den in the forest. Facing one would be fairly easy, all you need to do is flip it on its back, but facing a dozen would be challenging, which is why they are so dangerous. Where there is one there is a hundred. The most likely creatures, in my opinion, are Manticores, Griffins, Chimeras, Runespoors or Dragons."

"Fun."

"Unfortunately for you, I think the possibility for the Runespoor is the lowest."

"That would be far too easy for a Parselmouth."

"I did see a few competitions where they brought in a Lethifold, but with the current ministry I find that one highly unlikely."

"It's no wonder so many contestants died if they are pulling from the XXXXX list. Who in their right mind pitches students against known man-killers? What else concerns you?"

Hermione bit her lip. "In every single competition on record, they took hostages for one competition."

"What kind of hostages?"

"Traditionally they are family or close friends of the champions."

"So it is very likely that at some point this year you are going to be held hostage during one of the competitions?"

"Yes."

"What is the mortality rate for the hostages?"

"Not as bad as the mortality rate for the contestants."

"Brilliant. Remind me to kill whoever gets me picked as a contestant."

Hermione just smiled at him ruefully. "Enough of this. Finish your breakfast so we can get to potions."

"Alright. How are you liking working with Goyle?"

Professor Snape had decided to shake things up. He had assigned partners for potions this year. The best students were paired with the worst students. Hermione and Draco, the best in the class, were paired with the worst in the class, Crabbe and Goyle. Neville had been paired with Greengrass. Harry was paired with Zabini. Lavender, who was rather good at potions, was overjoyed to be paired with Ron. Fay and Theo Nott were a good pairing so far.

"It's going alright. Goyle isn't a horrible student he is just slow. He gets panicked when he realizes he is behind the class which causes him to miss steps. I mostly just keep him focused and working smartly. We start the brewing session reading through the recipe so he knows which steps will take time and which ones will require him to move quickly. I think the situation with his father has really affected him too. He has been very respectful. How is working with Zabini?"

"He is hilarious. Really sarcastic. Neither of us is a potions genius but we work well together and turn in E level potions most of the time."

"I love that you don't dread the class now. And because you no longer dread it, that means we can head to class sooner."

Harry shook his head at his girlfriend's hint. They had potions that morning and she didn't like to show up for class on time, she needed to be early. "Neville, are you ready to go?" Harry called down the table. Neville looked up from his Herbology text and nodded.

"Yeah, let's head to the dungeons."

Quidditch Pitch

"Welcome Hogwarts students and parents to the first quidditch game of the year! I am Lee Jordan and I am sad to say this is the only game I will be announcing this year. I have been informed by McGonagall that the former professional beater of the Wimbourne Wasps, Ludo Bagman, will be taking my job once the actual tournament begins. Feel free to protest loudly."

"Jordan, do you remember me telling you that this game was being watched by more than just the school? Did I not tell you it was being broadcast over the Wireless? There are parents, Ministry officials and members of the press here." Professor McGonagall growled. She had hoped the 'colorful' commentary would disappear due to the fact that there were no house teams. Apparently, she had been wrong. Now she was very afraid of how he would announce the individual teams.

"Sorry, I meant Professor McGonagall. That was rude of me, I will attempt to curb my tongue but you know how I am." As usual, their conversation was heard by all as neither thought about the fact that the booth mic was under a Sonorus Charm. "Anyway on with the festivities. I have just been handed the team rosters. Thank you, Professor. Our teams will be wearing either Black or white. You will be able to spot your houses players by looking at the border around the crest on the front of their jersey, it will be outlined in your houses' primary color." He paused in reading the sheet of parchment. "Do I really have to read all of this?"

"Yes."

"Okay, okay. I just thought it was kind of boring. Moving on. Hogwarts would like to thank the makers of the Firebolt Junior for providing the brooms used in the tournament games. Every player will be using the Firebolt Junior to even the playing field. Don't let the junior attached to the name scare you, this broom is still one of the fastest in the world. Firebolt and Quality Quidditch Supplies are also responsible for all of the new equipment your players will be using throughout the tournament.

"Now for your teams. In the white jerseys we have the Griffins. Yes, the teams named themselves. The Griffins are being coached by Gryffindor's former Keeper, and the best keeper in recent years, Oliver Wood!" A cheer had gone up as Oliver had flown onto the field waving at the students. "Oliver has joined the Puddlemere United team. The captain of the Griffins is Ravenclaw's very own, Roger Davis. Joining him on the chaser line are Tamsin Applebee and Malcolm Preece of Hufflepuff. Grant Page of Ravenclaw will be playing keeper." The players flew out onto the field as their names were called. "Taking the field as beaters we have the terrible two, Gryffindor's own, Fred and George Weasley. Oh, look at that. Their first initial is on the back this time. I can actually tell which is which if their backs are to me. Cool."

"Jordan."

"And finally, the assistant captain, the youngest seeker in a century, your very own Gryffindor golden boy, the Boy-Who-Lived, Harry Potter." The crowd cheered. "I know what you are all thinking, 'where are the Slytherins?' Well, fear not, here they are. From Slytherin house, we have the reserve chaser, Theo Nott, reserve keeper Miles Bletchley and reserve beater Micah Wilkinson. The reserve seeker is the lovely Cho Chang of Ravenclaw."

The players had lined up, in midair, in the center of the field. As some unseen signal, they dispersed flying around the stadium showing off their skills.

"In the black jerseys, we have the Basilisks. Yes, they went with Basilisks, tell me, is it too soon?" Lee laughed lightly. "The Basilisks are under the control of the former Slytherin captain, Marcus Flint. Marcus was signed to the Falcons this summer. The captain for this team is their keeper, Hufflepuff's Herbert Fleet. Flying at chaser, from Gryffindor, we have the lovely Alicia Spinet and Katie Bell. Joining them is Slytherin's Joshua Vaisey. Vaisey is also the assistant captain. The beaters are Ravenclaw's Duncan Inglebee and Slytherin's Seth Lomax. Finally, playing seeker is the Hufflepuff heartthrob, Cedric Diggory!"

"Jordan…" Professor McGonagall was drowned out by the crowd.

"The reserves are, Gryffindor's youngest Weasley, Ginny at chaser and Cormac McLagan at keeper. Anthony Rickett of Hufflepuff will be the reserve beater and Slytherin's Draco Malf… I mean Black is the reserve seeker for the Basilisks, sorry Black.

"And now for a word from our sponsors." Lee sounded amused with that statement.

"Hello, Hogwarts. My name is Randolph Spudmore, creator of the Firebolt. I was approached by young Harry Potter about his Firebolt Junior. You see, Mister Potter and Mister Diggory had already received our Junior broom during a contest over the summer and they didn't think it was right to receive a second. Well, we came up with a solution that we could all agree with. Listen up ladies and gentlemen you may want to hear this. After the game today, we will be auctioning off the brooms flow by the two seekers to the highest bidder. The proceeds will go to a new charity, Evans House. To tell you all a little about Evans House, we have the founder and Director, Narcissa Black."

Harry and Cedric had flown to the announcer's box and were now standing with Spudmore and Narcissa.

"Good Afternoon, Hogwarts students and honored guests. Many of you know me and many of you claim to know the young man standing next to me." She placed a hand on Harry's shoulder and squeezed gently. "Harry Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived. What few realize is that he is one of many children who lost their family due to violence. There are many children here who lost a mother, a father, brothers, sisters. Some have lost everyone. Harry contacted me about the idea of donating the proceeds of his auctioned broom to a children's charity. We looked into it and couldn't find one that fit us. It is sad, but there are very few that actively help children in need in Britain and Harry's desire was to help orphaned children like himself.

"His godfather and I decided that we would give him his wish. Sirius Black and I started Evans House. Evans House's main goal is to aid in the placement and care of children orphaned in the wizarding world, whether that be through supporting their remaining family or finding a wizarding family that will take them in. It is our belief that no child should go without love when they lose their family. In fact, don't you think children who have lost their parents deserve more love?"

"There you have it." Spudmore continued. "We are auctioning these brooms for a good cause so please stick around after the game."

Cedric glanced at the younger seeker as they walked away from the booth. "Your family started the charity?"

Harry shrugged. "I didn't want to donate money to charities put in place to fund pureblood children going to Hogwarts. There are four charities set up to help under privileged pureblood children, none of them will aid halfblood or muggleborn children."

"Seriously?"

"Yup. Aunt Narcissa was furious when she realized she had been donating to charities that actively support kids who don't actually need the support."

"Didn't she research the charities before?"

"Malfoy fed her falsified data so she wouldn't know that he was having her donate to charities that gave money to families like the Goyle family or to Warrington's cousin. Goyle would get money because his father is in Azkaban, despite the fact that they can easily pay for school. Delilah Lowenstein lost her parents to a magical disease when she was eight, one of the charities would pay for all of her expenses even though her parents set up provisions to care for her and she went to live with the Warrington family. Those kids don't need help the way other kids do. Don't get me wrong, I feel terrible for them, they just aren't underprivileged."

"So Evans House. Why not Potter House?"

"She named it after my mum." Cedric blinked. "I didn't want people to associate it with me. It isn't about me. The charity is for children that are orphaned or families that lose one parent and are in need of help. Aunt Narcissa named it for my mom, who was Lily Evans before she married my dad, because she is the reason I am alive."

"You know, Harry, you make the rest of us look bad." Cedric smiled. "I want to be like you when I grow up."

"You're older than I am."

"Yeah, I am, but I didn't even think about the fact that I already had a Firebolt Junior when Madam Hooch told us about it. You did. You were the one who said the proceeds should go to a children's charity. When you didn't find one you liked, you started one. You are an amazing kid, Harry."

"Sirius and Narcissa started the charity."

"They did it because it was what you wanted, so you basically started it." Cedric extended his hand and they shared a serious handshake. "Now, let's go out there and fly a great game so these rich people spend ridiculous amounts of money on these brooms."

"Okay. Hermione said we should sign them in front of the crowd right before the auction. We are hoping they will be bought by parents who will give them to their kids. If we sign them, it will be a good memory for the kids who use them"

"Which makes your broom priceless." He smirked. "I definitely I hope I grow up to be more like you, kid."

….

It was an amazingly balanced game. Madam Hooch, the coaches and the teams bandied lineups back and forth for a few hours before coming to a decision. Their goal was to have two high quality teams; not one superb team and one mediocre team. They were quite pleased with what they ended up with.

Amazingly, they were all but even, up until the end that is. The chaser lines were fairly even. Alicia and Katie were a better team than Tamsin Applebee and Malcolm Preece but Roger Davis was a stronger center than Joshua Vaisey. Still, the Basilisk line seemed to be slightly better than the Griffin line. Of course, the Griffins had the Weasley twins.

The Weasley twins were phenomenal together. They out performed Inglebee and Lomax which evened out the chaser lines even more as they were better at play disruption. The hardest decision for the coaching staff was whether or not to split up the Weasley twins. Everyone was pleased with the decision in the end.

The game was essentially even the entire day. The largest lead was four goals up and it never lasted long. The Basilisks were ahead more often than the Griffins but the Griffins had disturbed more plays than the Basilisks.

The keepers were fairly even as well. Page and Fleet had similar records in previous seasons and had nearly identical stats for the game, Fleet's numbers were only slightly better. Fleet was a little weak on the left hoop while page was weaker on the right hoop.

The seekers were the deciding factor in this game. Harry and Cedric had both been working tirelessly. Madam Hooch had been pushing them to learn complicated plays and feints. She really wanted them to be able to perform and spot a Wronski Feint. They were also trained to aid in disrupting plays. When the opposing chaser line got a breakaway, the seeker would fly through the field of play, cutting off passing lines and startling the player in possession of the quaffle.

It turned out to be a long game. The snitch didn't make many appearances and those it did make were extremely short. After an hour and a half, the reserves were brought in for about half an hour to give the starters a break. The chasers and beaters sat for fifteen minutes a piece while Harry and Cedric took a half-hour break. The score was tied at 280 apiece, when the seekers started an all-out battle to end the three-hour game.

Cedric actually saw it first. Harry had just dived through the field of play, causing Tamsin to fumble the quaffle, when it appeared near the Basilisk keeper. The sixth year just happened to be facing that way when it showed so he pushed his broom to the limit and sped after the allusive gold ball.

Harry had a sixth sense when it came to the snitch. Those watching his progress through the field of play were shocked when he suddenly changed direction. In the middle of his dive he flipped and rolled so he was going the other direction, across the length of the field toward the opposing team's keeper.

Cedric was closer, but the snitch was determined.

The little winged ball shot toward the stands, aiming for the Slytherin banners, which just so happened to be in between its pursuers. Both seekers lay low to their brooms to reduce wind resistance. Had the snitch not zoomed toward the grassy field below, the two would have collided; instead, they each angled their brooms into steep dives to follow.

Their broom handles were completely aligned when they pulled out of the dive to skim the field, still following the fleeing ball.

Cedric glanced at Harry, knowing the younger boy would get the snitch, but he wasn't giving up. He was surprised to see Harry grinning so widely it almost looked as though he was laughing. The older boy felt a small smile spread across his face, how could he not when he was flying with a boy who lost all the stresses of life while flying like a mad-man?

Suddenly, the snitch shot up and then flew over their heads, just out of reach of Cedric's reaching hand. Harry did not reach. Instead, he followed the snitches path; shooting up then falling back to race the complete opposite direction. He did that completely upside down, still grinning and now actively laughing.

Cedric Diggory had just completed his wider turn when he saw Harry reach out and snatch the little ball from the air.

What he would remember most from that day was not losing. It also wasn't the look of joy and peace on Harry's face. No, what he would remember was that every single person was cheering. The Griffin team was elated. The Basilisks were hyped for a great season. Most of all, the crowd was in a state of euphoria. They did not have winners and losers, they had two great teams who played a great game. This was what quidditch was all about.

That and watching Oliver Wood dance around like a crazy person because he was so happy.

….

"Thank you for sticking around while the students head to their respective after parties." Randolph Spudmore smiled at the remaining crowd. For the most part it was comprised of parents and Ministry officials. Some of the students remained, they either stood with family or sat with friends.

"I have to say, as the developer and one of the founders of the Firebolt Company, that that was a fantastic game. You should be proud of your students, they are a talented and dedicated group." The teams stood behind him along a quickly conjured stage. He turned toward them, "You all do your school proud. Now, Mister Diggory, if you would," he gestured toward the table standing next to him. They had discussed it and everyone agreed that Harry's broom should be auctioned second whether he won or not. The Boy-Who-Lived would always be a bigger draw.

Cedric stepped forward, pulling his wand from the holster strapped to his leg; he never flew with it strapped to his wrist. Cedric laid the broom on the table and, muttering a spell that Harry told him about, he painted his signature on the broom's handle. It wouldn't make it worth any more, but he hoped on day it said something.

"Ladies and gentlemen, you just witnessed it, I will be auctioning off a signed Firebolt Junior, used by Cedric Diggory of Hogwarts. Let's start the bidding at…"

The gathered crowd bid on the broom. Cedric heard his father make a bid and heard Cho's father bid as well. He was surprised at the number of people willing to bid on him when Harry Potter was waiting in the wings. In the end, his broom went to Benjamin Abbott, father of Hannah and Liam Abbott. He assumed the man got the broom for his son, who followed Cedric around like an affectionate puppy. The kid was a first year and idolized the sixth year Prefect.

"Thank you all for bidding. Now, for the broom that won the game." Harry stepped forward and followed Cedric's actions and signed his name to the broom, painting it in gold as neatly as he could. "Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a broom signed by Hogwarts seeker, Harry Potter! Who wants to start the bidding?"

Harry stood back and watched. It was completely different from the bidding on Cedric's broom. He supposed he should have expected that. Even if they didn't mention the thing he was known for, it would play a part it this.

They were frantic. Bids being thrown out the second the pervious person stopped talking. One by one the bidders dropped out of the war. By the time it was down to three people, they had more than tripled the price Cedric's broom went for. Harry was rooting for a man in his forties, his son stood at his side, vibrating with excitement despite how pale he was.

The man with the salivating teenage daughter dropped out quickly. Then it was down to the smirking man Harry thought looked like a friend of Lucius Malfoy and the man with the kid. They battled back and forth, raising the price of a broom to nearly ten times what it actually cost.

When the snooty man scowled, Harry almost cheered. The broom went to the little boy.

"Thank you all for bidding. Firebolt and Evans House would like to thank you for your generosity. Would the winners please come and collect your possessions? For the rest of you, thank you for coming and remember Firebolt for all of your flying needs!"

The quidditch teams were waiting around one end of the pitch, standing under the hoops. Harry and Cedric held their newly auctioned off brooms. Madam Hooch and Narcissa led the winners and a few members of the press over. The press representatives had already spoken to Narcissa and Spudmore. Narcissa had refused to let the press speak with either student, this was not about quidditch or Harry, it was about the children in need. The men who bid smiled kindly while their son's walked at their sides with barely contained excitement.

"Alright," the photographer from the Prophet took charge. "We want some pictures for the papers, first let's get one of Mister Diggory handing off his broom."

They got dozens for pictures. Cedric handing the broom to a beaming Liam Abbot. Harry handing his broom to Brendan Hope, the little boy, while his father stood behind him. Pictures of the teams with the buyers. Pictures of Narcissa and the fathers shaking hands.

The picture that would appear on the front of the Prophet the next day was of Harry and little Brendan. It was a lucky shot; Brendan had just handed the broom to his father. The boy turned back to Harry and threw himself at the fourteen-year-old. Readers would smile at the picture of Harry Potter picking the six-year-old boy up and hugging him tightly.

Hogwarts Grounds

"Why do we have to stand out here?"

"Because the students from the visiting schools will be here soon and we need to welcome them," Hermione explained to Lavender for the tenth time in about five minutes.

"Yes but why do we have to ALL be out here. Couldn't we just have the seventh years do this, or better yet, the Prefects." Parvati added her opinion while shivering. "I'm from India, it is always warm in India."

"You have lived in Britain for years. You said your family moved here when you were eight. You should be used to the cold by now, and it isn't that cold. Perform a warming charm if your cold. Just be glad it isn't raining."

"Don't say the word rain, Fay!" Lavender gasped.

"If you say 'rain' it will start to rain." Parvati agreed.

"That isn't how it works."

"We know that Hermione, but Harry is standing here."

"What do I have to do with anything?"

"Well," Lavender grinned slightly, "no offense, but you have horrible luck."

"So we figured that if something could go wrong, like it starting to rain, then it would most likely happen when you are around."

The green eyed boy frowned. "Thanks for the support…"

"You know; they are kind of right."

"Ron…"

"No, Hermione, they are kind of right. Harry really does have horrible luck, but it usually isn't for stuff like this. If there is a way for him to get hurt, he's going to get hurt. Just standing here like this, he will be completely fine."

"I don't know if I should thank you or not."

Ron just grinned before going back to a conversation with Dean and Seamus.

Hermione leaned into Harry's side, attempting not to laugh. She loved how free her year-mates were with each other. "How is little Brendan?"

After the auction the previous week, Harry had talked to Luke Hope, the man who won the final bid on his broom, and his son Brendan. Harry had felt the need to thank the man for bidding as much as he had because of how much money he spent. Luke had explained he felt Evans House was worth it.

Both Luke and Brendan were orphans. Luke had been orphaned at sixteen. His mother died when he was three from an accident at work, his father from illness. Luke had gone to live with his best friend until he was able to live on his own. Brendan, at six, had no memory of his parents. They had died when Brendan was about a year old while out on a date. They had insisted on going the muggle way, using the car. It had been raining, visibility terrible. When a drunk driver ran a red light Brendan's father had tried to stop but with the slick roads he had just swerved and were hit. The car had rolled a few times, ending up on its top. They had died at the scene while the drunk driver had walked away with barely a scratch.

Brendan's father had been Luke's best friend. Luke and his wife had adopted Brendan to honor his friend and because he was the boy's godfather. Life hadn't been easy, as Brendan had a laundry list of health issues but they were family.

Brendan had been so excited. He was a big quidditch fan and wanted to play seeker someday. They lived in Hogsmeade and came to a lot of the games so Brendan was close to home but still got to watch a live game. The kid really loved watching Harry's games. Harry had ended up telling the kid to owl him any time. He had received two owls so far.

"Luke took him for a quick fly on the broom the other day. He said it was the best fly of his life. Then he had Luke mount my broom on the wall over his bed, making sure my signature was visible." Harry blushed a bit at that. "He really likes Hedwig, says she is the most beautiful owl in the world. Bren, he told me to call him Bren, wants a dog but would settle for a cat. He is excited to learn his numbers and wishes he was better at writing letters."

"You are an amazing person, Harry Potter."

He looked down at her, "He is good kid. All he wants is someone to talk to."

"And that is why you are a good person. Not many fourteen-year-old boys would agree to owl a kid eight years younger than he was."

"Harry, what do you think that is?"

Harry looked in the direction Neville was pointing and blinked. "I have no idea but whatever it is, is big and probably carrying a bunch of students from a foreign school."

"Is that a carriage?" Lavender guessed as it got closer.

"Being pulled by Abraxan?" Parvati added, guessing the breed of flying horse.

"Looks like it." Seamus grinned as the carriage drew nearer.

The giant carriage landed extremely quietly considering its size. Hagrid directed the large, winged horses to a space between the greenhouses and the Forbidden forest. The carriage was large and opulent. The school's crest was displayed on the side, announcing the arrival of the congregation from Beauxbatons Academy.

The Prefects walked around their houses, quickly straightening the lines the students were standing in. They had been lined up on either side of the entry way, Hufflepuff and Gryffindor on one side, Slytherin and Ravenclaw on the other. They were lined up by year as well. First year students in the front and going back by year ending with the seventh years. The house Prefects stood on the ends to ensure the children behaved.

They watched as the doors of the carriage opened and students in blue robes stepped out and started to walk quickly toward the school. The reason for the visitors' fast pace became apparent as they passed; while it was not particularly cold for a Scottish autumn night, it would be freezing if you weren't wearing the proper robes. Bringing up the rear, and the only one wearing a proper cloak, was the tallest woman any of them had seen. She was taller than Hagrid.

"Welcome, Madame Maxime and welcome students of Beauxbatons."

"Thank you, Albus. Now, we do not wish to be rude but the weather in France is much warmer than here and my students are cold. Might we continue indoors?"

"Of course, Olympe. Minerva, please show the contingent from Beauxbatons to the Great Hall."

"Of course, welcome students and teachers. If you will follow me."

As they passed, a familiar blonde witch waved to Harry before rushing after her school mates."

"Do you know her, Harry?" Lavender asked.

"We met at the World Cup. She got second place in the Firebolt Competition."

"She also ended up at our tent during all of the craziness." Neville added with a slight shiver. He got a bit nervous when the Death Eaters were mentioned.

"You will have to introduce us," Parvati insisted. "I would love to know what products she uses in her hair to give it that shine. She has a great…"

"Look at the lake!" Parvati's words were drowned out by the shout. She never finished as she was just as enthralled by the rest of the students were by what was happening.

A whirl pool had formed in the lake. From the center, a mast appeared and continued to rise. As the mast rose, the rest of the ship came into view. In a matter of minutes, a large skeletal galleon sat on the dark waters of the Black Lake.

The two methods of transportation couldn't be more different. One was bright and richly decorated; the other was dark, dreary and intimidating.

Students in dark red cloaks started walking down a gang plank and up the grounds toward the glory that was Hogwarts castle. They did not rush the way the Beauxbatons students did, they were dressed for much colder weather.

"Ah, Albus. Thank you for the warm greeting. I see that Olympe has arrived but has not waited to greet us."

"Good evening, Igor. Welcome, students of Durmstrang. Madame Maxime and her students went inside as they are not quite used to the Scottish weather. Perhaps we could all head inside and enjoy a meal together. Severus, if you would?"

"Of course," Igor turned and gestured to one of his tall students, "come, Viktor. We would not want for your cold to worse standing out in the moonlight." He sneered at Professor Snape who, of course, sneered in return. The Hogwarts Potions Master won that sneer-off.

Those watching close enough could see not only Viktor roll his eyes but most of the students in red rolled their eyes with him. Igor, whatever his last name was, led his apparently prized student into the school as the rest followed. As they passed, a ripple of excitement ran through the Hogwarts student body. Viktor Krum was a student at Durmstrang.

Harry was pleased with this because he thought he might get to fly with the quidditch great again. He was more please when he spotted Aleksander among the following students.

"Well, that was anticlimactic." Hermione sighed in disappointment.

"Perhaps there will be something better after the feast?" Harry suggested as they started to follow the visitors into the school.

Great Hall

Harry and the other Hogwarts quidditch players sat down to breakfast extremely early the next morning. Madam Hooch had given them the day off from training due to the previous night's excitement but they still did their morning workout; mostly due to the fact they didn't feel complete when the skipped it. There were very few others in the Great Hall. This wasn't surprising.

After dinner the previous night, the Headmasters announced a bit of a meet and greet. Students entering the tournament and participating in the additional events were invited to stay and chat with their competition. A few students not involved managed to crash the party, but for the most part, it was just those who would compete.

Harry and Hermione, one of the people who didn't leave but should have, welcomed Aimee and Aleksander to Hogwarts. They learned that both would be playing quidditch and both wanted to auction off their second Firebolt Junior to benefit Harry's charity. They thought his solution was brilliant. Their Firebolt representative hadn't really had much to do with them.

A good portion of the students attempted to shower Viktor Krum with their adulation. Harry was furious. He managed to talk a good portion of his house out of mauling the famous seeker. Students from Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw that heard him discouraging his house mates also backed off. The Slytherins, however, did not hear or heed his warnings. By the time fifteen minutes had gone by, Krum looked like he wanted to punch someone. Half an hour into the mini event, he was gone.

The meet and greet broke up about an hour after it started as the visiting schools had been traveling all day. They wanted to get to their beds. Not to mention the fact people kept searching for Krum despite the fact that he disappeared.

What disturbed Harry, was that they didn't discuss anything about the tournament. The Headmasters didn't announce how the students would be chosen. They didn't inform them when events would start. There was no mention of any rules or particulars about the individual tasks.

Harry just wanted to know. He hoped they made some announcements the following evening.

Hermione slid into the seat next to him, Neville across from them. That was one thing Harry loved about the change in his closest friends. Both Neville and Hermione were early risers like he was.

"Good morning, Harry." Hermione leaned into his side before reaching for the tea. "How was your workout?"

"Good. We decided to add a lap to our circuit so it took a little longer but I don't feel any more tired than I usually do. How are you doing this morning?"

"Great. Neville asked me to quiz him on some Herbology notes he has been studying. It's really advanced, I don't think the seventh years even study some of the stuff he is researching."

Harry glanced at his friend, who only shrugged in return.

They continued their meal, with Harry continually glancing toward the doors.

"Who are you looking for, Harry?" Ginny asked from her place next to Neville. She had been spending a lot of time with Harry and the twins due to the fact that she was made an alternate for the Basilisks.

"I want to apologize to Viktor Krum for the way everyone was acting last night."

"That's nice of you but you don't have to, it was the Slytherins who were acting like crazy fans."

"Slytherins are students of Hogwarts. Their behavior reflects on all of us. Right now Viktor Krum's only impression of us is fans who don't respect personal space. Someone should apologize and welcome him properly."

"Well said, Mister Potter. That will be five points for Gryffindor."

Harry looked over his shoulder to see Professor McGonagall and Professor Flitwick making their way to the head table. Remus was already at the table, talking to Professor Snape. He smiled at his Head of House, she nodded in answer.

Neville nudged the hand he had resting on the table and tilted his head toward the main doors. It seemed that Viktor Krum and his school mates had arrived.

"Thanks, Neville. Do you want to come with me?" Both Neville and Hermione stood in assent.

The trio made their way confidently across the Great Hall, headed toward where the Durmstrang students had chosen to eat their meals, deep in territory few Gryffindors were brave enough to go; the Slytherin table. The snakes did not know what to think. Slytherins and Gryffindors did not mix. Gryffindors did not come into snake territory.

When Draco Black stood, they fell silent. While things had changed, there was history there. Black falling into step with Harry caused them to hold their breaths.

Harry and crew had reached the table just as Krum and his friends had. "Good morning, Mister Krum, Aleksander, Mister Markov." Harry nodded to them. Aleksander had introduced them to Mikhail Markov the night before. "I apologize for interrupting your morning but I wanted to apologize for the way my schoolmates acted last night. Correct me if I am wrong, but you are a student, just like we are when at school. You may always be Viktor Krum, the star of the Bulgarian quidditch team, but Viktor Krum did not begin as a quidditch star and he will not end as a quidditch star. If you plan to play quidditch, then I will see you on the pitch. If you become the Durmstrang Champion, then I wish you luck. For now, I would like to welcome you to Hogwarts. If you ever need to know where something is, feel free to ask."

Viktor took his hand and shook it firmly. "Thank you, Harry Potter. You will see me on the pitch. I hope you have been practicing."

Harry smiled. "Of course I've been practicing; I can't let Draco beat me. Thank you for your time and welcome."

The four students walked from the hall, without looking back.

"He didn't drool, faint or kiss your feet." A dark haired girl said in a language only her classmates would understand.

"That was Harry Potter, Iona." Viktor answered in the same language. "If there was anyone under this roof who would not act like a crazy fan, it would be him. I am famous for flying professionally, something I work for and enjoy. He is famous for surviving where everyone before and after has died. Harry Potter understands the pains of fame probably better than any I play with."

"Well," she smiled, "that is one group in this school I will not have to hate for the way they treat you then."

While the Durmstrang students were impressed, a certain trio of Beauxbatons students were not.

"They all fawn over the quidditch star." Fleur shook her head. Sophia and Juliette nodded.

"He is not so great; he only plays quidditch."

"At least the little messy haired boy has not drooled on your shoes, but perhaps that is because he has not reach puberty yet."

"Will you stop. He might not have been going to speak to Krum." Aimee was getting quite sick of their attitudes. They had been at Hogwarts for less than a day and they were already complaining about the students. "He knows one of the men standing next to Krum."

"And how would you know?" Fleur stared down her nose at the other blonde.

"I know because I know both the young man from Hogwarts and one of the men who stand with Krum. I met them both at the World Cup. Harry, the Hogwarts boy, beat me in the broom race competition while I beat Aleksander, which Sophia and Juliette should be aware of. Harry also saved Aleksander and me from those men in masks after the game." She glared at her friends. "Please don't insult people when you don't know them. If you can't do that, at least refrain from rude comments about Harry in my presence."

The angered trio watched their friend storm away. She walked to the table full of students in green and sat down across the table from Krum and his friends, directly next to a tall dark haired girl. The Durmstrang and Slytherin students were startled but quickly adapted to the inclusion of the French girl. That angered a certain blonde even more.

Later That Day – Dinner

The novelty of having a celebrity had not worn off by dinner that night. Despite Harry's example, the students still flocked to the stoic Durmstrang student. Some students, all male, also flocked to a blonde Beauxbatons student. They did this in a manner far worse than those flocking to the quidditch great. Confident young men of all houses were reduced to drooling minions in her presence. For once, Harry Potter was just another student.

It was the twenty-ninth and the champions would be chosen in two days' time, on the night of Halloween. The students arrived promptly and in mass, hoping to hear how those lucky three would be chosen to compete for eternal glory.

There were new faces at the table when they arrived. Headmaster Dumbledore stood when all were seated to introduce their guests. "Welcome students. Tonight we have the honor of dining with individuals of importance to the Triwizard tournament. First, the Head of the Department of International Magical Cooperation and the man responsible for this grand tournament returning, Bartemius Crouch. To his left is Ludo Bagman. Mister Bagman is a former keeper of the Wimbourne Wasps and is currently the Head of the Department of Magical Games and Sports. Both Mister Bagman and Mister Crouch will be judges for the individual competitions. Mister Bagman will also be announcing the quidditch games."

The students applauded politely. They really didn't care about ministerial officials, they wanted to know about the tournament, about the champions.

"Lastly, at the far end of the table is an old friend of mine. He is a retired Auror and will be in charge of security. Alastor Moody will be staying at the castle throughout the year. You may not see him, but he most certainly will see you." The twinkle in the Headmaster's eyes was directed toward a certain Gryffindor and his group of mischief makers. "Now, please tuck in. More announcements will commence after the meal."

And so the students ate. Some rushed through the meal thinking that if they finished sooner, the announcements would come sooner. Their speed did not help because not all students rushed. So the meal commenced at normal speed. When the vast majority had cleaned their plates, dessert was served. It was when the dessert plates disappeared from the tables that all three Headmasters and both Ministry employees stood.

"What a lovely meal. I hope you all enjoyed the fare prepared for you." Dumbledore surveyed the students. All students appeared contented and full. "I give the floor to Mister Crouch."

"Hello students of Hogwarts, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang. I am honored to stand in your presence and honored to announce the beginning of the Triwizard tournament." The Hall erupted in applause. This was what they had been waiting for. "As you have been informed, one student, aged seventeen, will be chosen to represent each school in competition. Traditionally, the Triwizard tournament has three events. It has been decided that the remaining students would enjoy watching more events. Each of the participating schools have designed two tasks while the Ministries of the three presiding nations have designed the final task. By the end of the school year, the champions will have completed in seven tasks and the winner will receive a thousand galleons and their name will forever more be spoken of with awe.

"The method of choosing is one of tradition and magic. There is an artifact that will judge each name presented and will chose the most qualified for each school. We do not know which characteristics this artifact judges of so all students of age are welcome to enter."

Dumbledore stepped forward. "I will be laying an age line around the artefact so that only those of age can enter the tournament. The professors have also set up a rotation so that there will always be an adult present with the cup to ensure fair play."

"The artefact will be placed in the atrium for all who wish to compete. You will have until five the night of Halloween to place your name in the artefact."

It was then that the door at the side of the Head table opened and Percy Weasley levitated a box toward his boss. Dumbledore conjured a grand pedestal that the Weasley brother placed the box on. A flick of Percy's wand caused the box to vanish and a glorious cup stood on the pedestal.

"Behold, the Goblet of Fire!" the headmasters said as one.

Bartemius Crouch touched the cup with his wand and orange flames erupted within the cup. "Ludo, if you would."

Ludo Bagman dropped a slip of parchment into the flames.

Madam Maxime followed, placing a slip of paper into the cup.

Igor Karkaroff and then Albus Dumbledore dropped slips of parchment into the flames.

When each slip fell into the flames, they flashed a brilliant blue.

Crouch lifted a sheet of parchment and held it over the flames. "With this, I announce the beginning of the Triwizard tournament!" When the slip fell into the flame it once again flared blue, but this time it did not return to orange. Blue flames danced in the cup of the Goblet of Fire, calling all who dared to enter a tournament of danger and glory.

Halloween Night

"The Goblet is about to make its decision. If I could have silence while we wait." Bartemius Crouch swept an arm toward the Goblet of Fire.

In the two days since the Goblet had been presented, a large number of students had entered. There wasn't one student at Hogwarts aged seventeen who hadn't entered. Sunday had seen many students hanging around the entrance hall to watch the students enter their names. Classes had been canceled Monday, Halloween day, to prevent the teachers from hexing their students due to lack of attention. The Hogwarts quidditch teams spent a lot of time training both days. Harry and his closest friends also spent a good portion of their days with Remus. The Defense Professor was tutoring them in dueling and advanced spell casting. Fred and George had attempted to enter the tournament, knowing they would not be able to. They had asked Remus what the age line would do if they used aging potions, when they heard the consequence was an Albus Dumbledore style beard they just had to do it.

Madam Maxime stepped forward as the fire sputtered and flashed orange. A slip of singed paper flew from the flames as it returned to that startling blue. "The champion from my Beauxbatons Academy is Fleur Delacour."

The blonde beauty queen boys had been fawning over stood and smiled to the students around her even though half of them were scowling at her. Students watched as she flounced to the dais and was directed to the antechamber off the head table.

Headmaster Karkaroff shoved his way toward the Goblet of Fire as it began to sputter once more. "The champion of the Durmstrang Institute is, of course, VIKTOR KRUM!"

Students began to chant Krum, much like the fans did at the World Cup. The quidditch star stood, his expression as blank as always. He bowed his head to the students, his eyes catching Harry's. Harry and the quidditch star shared an understanding eye roll; fans really were annoying. Viktor stalked to the head table and swept into the side room without being directed to do so.

The cheers for Krum dissipated as Headmaster Dumbledore sidled up to the cup. "The third and final champion, representing Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is Cedric Diggory."

Hogwarts was on its feet. Cedric really was the best choice. No house could come up with a reason to not cheer for him. A certain fourth year seeker in green was elated at the selection, which could be heard across the hall, as he was now the starting seeker for the Basilisks.

While the crowd celebrated the official beginning, a small group of Gryffindor students braced.

Harry looked at his lap and breathed deeply. He was having a very hard time keeping his emotions under control. In a matter of moments, he would know if this whole circus was an elaborate plan to kill him.

Hermione gripped his hand tightly. "No matter what happens we are with you."

He searched her eyes, looking for the fear that plagued he during the summer. He couldn't find any. "There she is."

"What?"

"My girlfriend is back. The best thing about you, Hermione is that you are always at my back, no questions asked."

Her answering eye roll went unnoticed.

"Harry Potter." The Headmaster's voice shook slightly.

All eyes turned to the Gryffindor table.

"HARRY POTTER!"

Harry looked at Neville and the boy nodded.

Fay smiled a crooked smile in support.

Hermione squeezed his hand.

Harry stood, his friends stood with him.

Fred and George each put a hand on his shoulders. They would protect their brother when they could.

Across the hall, Draco Black stood and nodded.

Harry leaned over and kissed Hermione's cheek before dropping her hand and slowly walking to his Headmaster. He could feel the glares. He saw the looks of confusion. He saw fear on Roger's face; glee on Cho's. The Gryffindor chasers stood and nodded their support despite the fear that filled their eyes. Aimee Beaucourt, sitting with the Ravens, stood and quickly gripped his hand as he walked passed. At the Slytherin table, Aleksander and his friend Mikhail stood and moved to stand on either side of Draco, a small wall of support from the snake den.

As he walked up the steps, he was faced with fear; McGonagall, Sprout and Hagrid. He was faced with revulsion; Karkaroff, Maxime and Crouch. Interest from Moody. Glee from Bagman. Resignation painted Snape, Dumbledore, Flitwick, Pomphrey and Remus's faces.

He turned when he stood at the center, just in front of the Goblet of Fire. After a whispered Sonorus, that he didn't draw his wand to preform, he spoke. "I, Harry James Potter, Heir of House Potter, swear on my life and magic that I did not enter my name, nor did I ask someone to enter my name into the Goblet of Fire. So mote it be." He waited, watching his words sink in. Draco nodded. It was time. "Expecto Patronum." His silver fox burst from his wand and darted around the hall, brushing past Hermione before returning to him and brushing her tail against his hand before dissipating.

He canceled the Sonorus with another whisper and confidently made his way to the side chamber in the silence his announcement created, no matter how much he wanted to fall apart.

The champions were standing near the giant fireplace, keeping warm within the drafty castle. Krum was leaning against the wall on the right, Fleur stood directly in front of the flame while Cedric was on her left. They turned when he entered. Cedric appeared confused by his entrance. Krum merely raised an eyebrow while Fleur scowled, she really wasn't portraying an attractive personality.

"Harry, what are you doing here?"

"Do they want us to return?"

Harry shook his head at the French student's question. "My name came out of the Goblet of Fire."

The professors and tournament officials burst through the door at that moment. "Did you put your name in the Goblet, boy." Crouch got in Harry's face.

"Weren't you listening to him, Mister Crouch," Professor McGonagall all but snarled. "He performed a magical vow, placing that vow on his life and magic, stating he didn't."

"It would be impossible for him to be standing here had he lied as his vow would have killed him. The fully corporeal Patronus was unnecessary but certainly proved a point." Professor Snape sneered at the department head.

"Did you ask someone to do it for you?"

"Bartemius, that was part of the oath as well," Dumbledore sighed. "Not to mention the Goblet was never alone, at least not to my knowledge. Professors would have seen him if he came near the Goblet and I would hope they would have noticed someone placing an additional name in the Goblet. Alastor, Severus, please speak to the professors that were on duty, perhaps they were interrupted or saw something suspicious when dealing with the students who thought aging potions would work."

"You have got to be crazy. He can't compete, he is just a child." Fleur eyed him up and down and her eyes said she was not impressed.

"I quite agree, Albus. This is completely unfair. Hogwarts now has two champions. You are cheating."

"No," Harry quickly jumped in. "Hogwarts has one champion. Cedric is the champion and representative of the school. I am just a member of one of the quidditch teams."

"The boy lies," Karkaroff sneered. "I agree with Olympe, you are cheating."

"If Harry Potter gave a magical oath stating he did not enter, then he did not." Viktor spoke over the squabbling. "Perhaps everyone in this room should take an oath that they did not enter him. If you question him, then you should question everyone."

"Krum is right." Cedric agreed. "Magical oaths cannot be faked. You have hundreds of witnesses out there who saw it right? There are three people who didn't see the oath and I know two of us believe him."

"I will consent that the boy did not enter himself and did not ask anyone to do so." Madam Maxime looked down her nose at Harry. "That does not negate the fact that Hogwarts still has two champions."

"Actually, that isn't possible." Bartemius pulled a thick roll of parchment from his robes. "The Goblet can only choose one champion per school. In order for Mister Potter to be chosen, his name would have had to be entered under a fourth school' name. The rules we decided on only stipulated that there was only one champion per school, technically, we didn't limit it to three schools. Whoever put his name in only had to be powerful enough to convince the goblet there was a fourth school, entering late, and put the boy's name in. Being the only name available, he was chosen."

"Fine," Karkaroff snarled. "He isn't technically a Hogwarts champion, but he still attends the school so he will be considered a Hogwarts champion. I want a second champion."

"As do I."

"No! I will not share the glory of being the Beauxbatons champion. The Goblet chose me and I am the champion. I will not allow another to compete with me, Madam Maxime. Plus, he is no competition. He can't be more than twelve, he knows little magic, he will be lucky to make it out of the first task."

"Perhaps that was the point." Cedric mused under his breath. "Look, I don't want to compete against, Harry. It isn't that he won't be a challenge despite being only fourteen; Harry tends to rise to the occasion, or at least that is the rumor. I don't want to compete against him because Hogwarts shouldn't be divided in this; we all attend the same school so should all fight under the same banner."

"Well said, Diggory." Viktor walked forward and extended a hand to Harry, who shook it without pause. "I do not want to compete against one of my brothers and sisters. Durmstrang will not feel torn when the cheer for their champion. I look forward to competing with both Hogwarts champions. I hope you stay on the quidditch team, Harry Potter, because I was looking forward to facing you. You flew very well when we met at the World Cup and I wanted to see you in an actual game."

"I will see you on the pitch, Viktor." Harry used his given name. The professional seeker had asked him to do so at the World Cup. "I would be honored to face you as a champion as well. I only hope I manage to not make a fool of myself during the individual tasks. I am only fourteen. Three years of schooling probably won't be much challenge for students who have completed six."

"I don't know, Harry," Cedric said in a teasing voice. "Rumor is you took out a Werewolf during the full moon, repelled a dozen Dementors and took down two Death Eaters at the World Cup. You might do better than me." He shook Harry and Viktor's hands.

The three young men looked at Fleur. She rolled her eyes and walked over, shaking each of their hands in turn. She did not meet Harry's eyes when she took his hand.

"That good enough for all of you?" Cedric smiled at the gathered professors.

"If so, we would like to finish whatever business you have with us so that we might return to our classmates to celebrate." Viktor backed Cedric.

"Fantastic!" Ludo Bagman spoke for the first time. "Well, as you were told the other night, you will be competing in seven events throughout the year. There will be one event before the New Year, held on the third Saturday of November. After that there will be one a month, each task will be on the third Saturday of the month. I have only one clue for you concerning the first task." He pulled out a back and reached inside. He pulled a rock from the bag and placed one in the hands of the original three champions. "I will get a sample to you as well, Mister Potter. Obviously I wasn't prepared for a fourth competitor."

"You get only this hint," Crouch continued with much less enthusiasm, "as the first task is put forth by Durmstrang to test your bravery in the face of the unknown."

"Right. You will all be expected to meet Friday November 4th. There will be a small press conference and the traditional Weighing of the Wands."

"The Weighing of the Wands is an important tradition as it ensures all competitors have properly working wands. You will not survive if you don't have a working wand."

A grizzled, humorless laugh startled the occupants of the room. "Are we all just going to ignore the elephant in the room. Blondeie said it, Diggory commented on it and Crouch just mentioned it in a way. Don't you all wonder why Potter's name came out of the Goblet? This tournament was supposed to be for of age students only because it is dangerous. Obviously, someone wants Potter out of commission; I don't know if they want him dead or just so mangled he is no longer a threat but they didn't enter him to give him glory and fame."

"Really, Alastor, was that entirely necessary?" Professor McGonagall glared. "Please don't try to frighten my student. We will not let him die."

"You can't burry your head in the sand, little kitty."

"Alastor," Dumbledore spoke over him. He did not need his transfiguration teacher hexing his security expert. "Enough. We will speak more on the why and how later. I would have preferred not to throw out random theories to the students. I had planned to meet with Harry and the other champions when we had a solid theory about our conclusions." The man backed down with a shrug. "Now, I believe that is all we needed from you. You are free to return to your classmates and whatever celebrations they have begun."

The headmasters, Moody and the ministry employees left the room first. Fleur nodded slightly to her competitors, purposefully ignoring Harry, before sweeping from the room as well. Snape turned to leave but paused before exiting the door. Turning back, he nodded at the three remaining champions, then pushed through the door in true Professor Snape style.

Professor McGonagall remained but stayed near the door to allow them some privacy.

"Thanks for standing up for me."

"No problem, Harry. When they said you gave a magical oath there was no reason not to. Plus, I have never known you to lie."

"Have either of you ever spoken to the press?" The two turned to Viktor and shook their heads. "It is very important that you always refuse the use of Quick Quotes Quills. Also, stay calm and always answer only what you are comfortable answering. I would suggest you refuse any questions not pertaining to the tournaments. Some reporters will twist your words so it is best to speak clearly and leave no room for interpretation and do not give one on one interviews unless you trust the reporter not to twist your words."

"Thank you, Viktor."

"Harry, you should also speak to your guardian and have them present at any press interviews. As a minor, they are not allowed to speak to you without a guardian or teach present." Krum nodded one last time before leaving the room.

"Five points to each of you. You have represented Hogwarts with dignity. Mister Diggory, your points are for school unity and defending a fellow student. Mister Potter your points are for handling yourself with calm and decorum when adults were acting like children." She smiled, "Now, both of you, head to your common rooms. I am sure you are missing some rather wild parties."

And here is our return to the students. Remember this is self edited so I may have missed something while going through it. I hope you all enjoy!

If you are reading Acceptance, I have almost finished my next chapter. I needed to let my brain work through a few things. The next chapter or two are important to the storyline so I can't screw them up and I don't want them to resemble anything in this story. Thanks for your patience.

**10/21/16Edit - Bagman is a beater and I had keeper. oops.

**10/21/16For crying out loud. Apparently my favorite word when typing this chapter was Keeper. I somehow typed keeper for Cho... I didn't notice it in editing because I know very well that Cho is a seeker so my brain skipped the word.