18
Ch. 8 Tickling the Dragon
October 31, 1994 (Avalon)
A somber atmosphere greeted Hermione as she entered the kitchen following the disastrous finish to their first Samhain celebration together. Quickly she moved to behind Harry enveloping him in a hug, interrupting the conversation the men were having,
"Thank you again for helping me learn and celebrate magic's gifts, Harry" She mumbled into his back. "And thank you for keeping your promise to not enter…"
Clasping his hand on top of hers. He gave them a gentle squeeze as he interrupted her, "No. Thank you for being there Hermione. You helped make it easier for me. I'm sorry I couldn't keep my promise of staying out of the tournament though. That is actually what we are here discussing before you arrived." Turning to her he asked with a soft smile, "Coffee?"
"Yes, please." She said brightly excepting the offered cup. "So, what have I missed?"
"We actually just started," Sirius threw out. "It was smart for Harry to declare he was not a Hogwarts Champion and no one from the committee disagree with his pronouncement. Looking at the rules we will look to use this to our advantage to maintain help for him."
"How so?" She asked
"Well, we are going to have him shift all classes into independent study…"
"WHAT!" She yelled tightening her grip on the raven-haired teen next to her. Her morning beverage shattering on the floor.
Silently repairing the cup and refilling it from a fresh pot of coffee Harry attempted to continue with slightly more tact, "Hermione, please think about how much more time this will by for me to train. We know Riddle is the driving force behind this. We also know from the ineptitude of the Headmaster and Ministry people that they just declared me an adult… To remove any way for them to 'Revoke' that declaration I need to take 3 OWLs before then end of the year to maintain the front that I have yet to up my lordships until it is too late."
"Incorrect, Harry." She chided him to which he gave a confused look. At the look she answered his question.
"While, I agree you need to maintain hiding your claim of lordships is permanent, still, if you think I am going to allow you to study for those tests alone you've got another thing coming…" At this all the men smiled at her.
Merlin hopping back into the conversation asked, "Now that the obvious has been explained to our Dear Harry here, what test pray tell shall you two be taking?"
Both teens gazed at each other before replying in unison, "History, Muggle Studies, Astronomy, and Potions." The pair grinning like loons at the end of their pronouncement. Causing Sirius and Merlin to both laugh and carry a questioning look which Harry picked up on.
"Sirius. Pa. These four tests will serve a huge purpose." Pausing to stifle a deep laugh at the men's continued confusion, "Think about it. None of the tests require wands. We can easily continue hiding our progress. The last is just to take the piss out of Snape. He would have a coronary if us two beat his potions OWLs a year early and without his assistance. For what could be argued are the two most important years of study."
There was not a frown in the room by then end of his statement. Sirius took the lead at this.
"We will need to ask Ragnok for some help to discretely request an examiner. Your examiner will need to swear a secrecy oath, but I am sure for four times their yearly salary they would be most happy to part with one of their weekends."
Harry quickly penned a note for the Goblin Leader,
Master Ragnok,
It is in disappointment that I must confirm for you our worry that I would be entered into this tournament against my will. This unpleasantness is not without its benefit. Playing well into concealing my change in status as Lord of my Houses. We humbly ask you or an individual of import, request the Department of Education to hold testing for two home schooled students in early OWLs for History of Magic, Muggle Studies, Astronomy, and Potions before the Yule holiday. Preferably, the first week of December. They will be required to submit to a Secrecy Oath and will not need our true identities until the testing date.
My Godfather, Lord Black, offers you free reign to negotiate up to no more than 5 times their yearly salary per student (2) testing for this single weekend of their time. Do with this as you desire. Please see to it that you receive 3% of the total value negotiated.
Further, due to Dumbledore's incompetence please send out the 'Audit' for the Potter/Peverell Vaults. I concur with you that He should only have 30 days from the 'Audits' arrival to return such items. In agreement with you from our last conversation, he will not meet this requirement, be fined the value of such items, and will have the most unfortunate occurrence of 'Misplacing' them. Tragic really.
Lastly, with your next correspondence can you please include a Gringotts Portkey that will be capable of transporting the Basilisk into a Beast rendering vault of your choice? As a gift to you from my growing family, I wish to give your clan 100 kilos of meat from the rendering. Please select the highest quality for yourselves. Your patience and guidance these past months have been most helpful.
May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull.
Lord Harry James Potter
Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter, Peverell, Emrys
Heir to the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black
Happy with his letter to the goblin leader he called for Dobby asking for him to deliver the letter to the Goblins. At the moment the letter left Harry's hand the elf was gone. Much to the amusement of each person and Ruby. Shaking his head Harry turned back to the group,
"Well, Hermione. Let's get revising and training. Should be an interesting next 4 months…"
The evening of the 4th, Harry received his reply from Ragnok via banishing box. Quite pleased with the reply, Harry passed it to Hermione, as they departed for the Chamber. Hermione skimmed the letter as, Harry was pocketing the 4 synced Portkeys
Lord Potter,
All has been carried out to your specifications. Professor Tofty, from the Wizarding Examination Authority, has agreed to your terms for 4 times his yearly salary total. Testing will occur December 3rd and 4th here at Gringotts. Funds have been removed from your Godfather's Vault to cover costs negotiated, and portkeys will be provided the day before.
While concurring with your assessment of the issue at hand, this tournament will be a demonstration to the wizarding world of your prowess as a warrior. Do not fail to strike fear into your enemy's. Prove to them they stand no chance.
The 'Audit' has been submitted and send. Your Headmaster has until the 5th of December to comply with our demands. Most unfortunate that the items shall go missing.
Your gift is well met, Young Lord. We have included the requested Portkeys. Space them out evenly along the beast's carcass. Value will be assessed and offer to follow shortly after.
May your gold flow freely and your blades never dull.
Master Ragnok
Leader of the Goblin Nation
"Hello Myrtle." The pair said as they entered the 2nd floor girl's lavatory.
"Oh! Hello Harry. Hello Hermione. You both haven't visited lately." Myrtle stated in a teasingly mellow voice
Reddening slightly Harry replied, "Er… Sorry 'bout that Myrtle… We um.. We've been dreadfully busy. Hermione here has had to help teach me two whole new classes. We will try to stop by again soon. Right Hermione?"
"Oh, of course Harry." She exclaimed while subtly looking to drag him over to the chamber entrance. Cottoning on Harry said, "Sorry to rush Myrtle. See you soon."
"Bye Harry. Remember if you happen to die, I'll gladly share my toilet with you." Myrle said. Harry also thought that he heard Hermione hissing out under her breath, "Not bloody likely if I have anything to say about it…"
Grinning at his best friend as He approached the sink he swiftly spoke,
$open$
Right before he jumped into the opening that formed in front of them. Hermione grabbed him,
"Harry!" she chided, "Do you really think THE Lord Slytherin would jump down this hole?" At her question Harry at least had the grace to look sheepish as he shook his head in agreement. He then spoke again to the opening,
$Stairss$ Internally smiling at Hermione's brilliance he hugged her, "Hermione what would I do without you!"
"Probably be expelled three times over, now let's get this over with." She stated as they walked down the tube towards the chamber.
At the base of the opening, she gapped at the gigantic snakeskin that was left. 'He had to fight a snake that was Larger than That!' she mentally screamed. Harry having not let her go since descending to the chamber offered a comforting squeeze as they approached the cave in. Removing their wands both set to work. At the completion of their enchanting each finished with a flourish of their wands followed by a swift jab. The rocks, boulders, and sediment immediately jumped, refilling the whole above. In its place a stone structure not unlike the Roman Aqueducts formed. Complete with lit torches and a cleared path to the second door.
$Open$
Striding through the opening, Harry never noted Hermione's absence from his side till he heard the loud thud of her collapsing. Jerking around he found her passed out in front of him. Sprinting back to her he pointed his wand at her,
"Rennervate"He cast silently. Her eyes snapped open, at the successful casting, immediately looking around in a fright. She quickly though turned her ire onto Harry
"Now Harry. Why did you not tell me that you had to kill that Bloody big of a snake!" She was screaming by the end of the statement even if she posed it as a question. "You know what… Do not answer that. Uhh It is dreadfully obvious that without me you just can't help but get into these deathly situation…"
Harry at least had the curtesy to look scared before cheekily asking, "But you'll always be there for me. Wont you Hermione, Dear?"
Growling as she stood up, Hermione then proceeded to viciously poke Harry in the chest proclaiming, "Of course I will Harry. Someone has to break you of this death wish of a habit of yours…" she then wrapped him in her strongest hug to date before she continued to ask, "Please, promise me Harry. Promise me that you will look out for yourself more… I couldn't stand it to lose you."
Burying his head in her hair he whispered to her, "I promise, Hermione. I don't enjoy these violent events any more than you, but we will be prepared. Right?" She only nodded into his chest.
"Now let's get this great beasty out of here." He said through a smile as he lifted her chin.
Making quick work of the Basilisk they were preparing to head out before Harry had a thought, "Hermione. Do you think we could cast some revealing spells around the area to see if there are any hidden storages for tomes and treasures? I know Riddle probably found all of them, but do you think it would be worth a look?"
"I agree Harry. How about you scan the area near the carved Head of Slytherin and ill look along the various walls of the chamber." Agreeing they both took up their roles, scouring the chamber. Hermione was the first to find an empty potion storage. Harry unfortunately was having no such luck till he came to the mouth of the statue. Still open from the battle 16 months ago, a faint glow permeated from the mouth as it reacted to Harry's revealing spell. Calling for Hermione they both entered the statue following the glow. Slowly getting brighter they came to a hidden door next to the opening that led to the Basilisk's nest. Off a hunch Harry stated in front of the doorway,
$Open$
Nothing happened…
$Slytherin, Greatest of the Hogwarts Four$
At that statement the door dissolved leading them towards a circular stairwell. Reaching the top of the staircase They found Salazar's Study. Shelves and shelves of ancient tomes, scrolls, and parchment. A second doorway leading to the founder's personal potions laboratory still brimming with potion ingredients in stasis.
"How did Riddle not find this?" Hermione asked in awe, not bothering to hide her lust for the source of lost knowledge before them.
"I do not know, Hermione. I'm going to grab Sirius to have him check if any of this is cursed." Harry stated before immediately portkeying away and then back again with the stated Marauder.
"Oi. What the hell Harry?"
"Language, Sirius." Hermione bit back at him. "Now cast some detection charms around here to tell us if any of this is cursed. Harry do you have your Trunk? I didn't think to carry mine with me." Both men chuckled at her orders as they got to work. Harry quickly unshrinking his trunk and opening it to the library. 15 minutes later Sirius had finished his search.
"Oh, you two. You don't realize just how impressive of a find this is. What's crazy is that nothing is warded or cursed in here, so I'd say let's rob 'em blind." Sirius barked out. The three proceeding to grin at each other.
"Alright Hermione I assume you want to organize were all of this should go within our library's?" At her nod he continued, "Great we will start levitating everything down into the library and then the Potions room. When we arrive in Avalon tonight, we'll have days to sort through all of this." Half an hour later the group had finished emptying the founder's study. Before moving on to the potion's lab, three books Harry took great interest in, and if to go by their titles could quite possibly be not only of a great help to them with the tournament but after as well.
"Hermione, can you remember where we store these tomes? I think this is where I need to start some research."
"I'll place them next to your family Grimoires. What is so important about them? They are obviously written in parseltongue."
"They seem to contain three different branches of parslemagic. Roughly translated the titles say, 'Charming Your Inner Serpent' 'Battle Magiks & the Shadow' 'Serpent's Ritual'. I'm hopeful these could benefit us with training for the tournament. Who knows what rituals the last contains?…" As he turned towards the potions room.
Smiling at his thoroughness she nodded as a question came to her, "What do you think 'The Shadow' is?" Shrugging he turned to Sirius and her stating, "Do you think it could be a branch of illusions? Seems similar to a branch of Black Family Magic."
"That is quite possible, Harry. I'd hazard a guess that there are similar Parsemagic tomes in the Black Vault as well… Sadly the gift had disappeared from the family generations ago. Not unlike yours and my cousin Dora's Metamorphagus talents." Sirius answered. All three understanding just how those brilliant gifts could disappear…
Electing to skip dinner after their plundering, the pair quickly stopped in the kitchens for dinner. To keep up appearances they both spent the rest of the evening, till 9pm, searching the Library for anything that would help protect Harry in the upcoming task, and Harry wrote and charmed three letters for the champions telling them what the first task was to be. After placing the letters with Hogwarts Owls, they returned to the common room, each swiftly departed for their rooms, washing up and departed for Avalon after warding their four-poster beds.
"Harry, you realize that Professor Snape is going to be far more vicious to you moving forward, right?" McGonagall asked as soon as the pair entered her office the following day.
Smiling as he nodded, "Yes Auntie. I realize how petty that horrid excuse of a man is going to be, but we will be finished with him soon. If you are agreeable to our plan?"
Concerned at where this is going the Professor asked, "And just what plan would that be young man?" as she quirked her eyebrow.
"Well Professor." Hermione jumped in, "Harry here is planning to in essence remove himself from school and re-apply with the end of year tests."
Balking at this statement before schooling her features Minerva replied, "You're wishing to perform all of your classes as independent study. What would that accomplish?"
"Well, it would allow me far greater freedom to study and practice magic. It also would allow for me to state certain Professors are not my Professors. Thus, allowing your assistance in the tournament. Independent study also allows the student in question have compete access to the Restricted Section of our esteemed Hogwarts' Library." Harry playfully argued
Contemplating her young lion's stance and knowing far more was planned than he was letting on stated, "While very good points, Harry, I do not think it possible to shift you to independent study with Arithmancy and Runes," She held up her hand to forestall the rebuttal. "It was already difficult enough to move you to those classes a year late. I do not believe they will take kindly to you essentially dropping their class. Lastly, I doubt Professor Sprout will allow you in her Greenhouses unattended. This would leave 4 classes for you maintain. Herbology, Runes, Arithmancy, and Care of Magical Creatures. Giving you 3½ complete days off additionally for your 'training'… I mean independent study." She finished with a smile
The pair smiling in return agreed with her assessment and filled all the necessary paperwork. "You know I will not be able to have this request go into effect until after the wand weighing ceremony?"
"Oh, we planned for it to work that way Professor. Its only disappointing that I will have the displeasure of dealing with Professor Snape in Harry's absence." Hermione answered back with a forlorn look
Grinning internally and her normal stern features twitching at their blunt, and open manipulation to get what they want Minerva responded, "15 points from Gryffindor for attempting to manipulate a teacher, Miss Granger," Now she truly laughed at the dejected look Hermione took on before continuing, "Miss Granger, my apologies. Your attempt was quite obvious. I wonder though. Would you perhaps like to join Harry in Independent Study? Circe knows he would be lost without you."
Hermione immediately brightened at the question. Stating her acceptance as well.
"Then we have an agreement. You both shall shift to independent study in all studies except those we listed. While you won't have scheduled classes, you will be required to go through with the end of year exams."
"Yes Professor/Aunt Minnie." They replied
"Good! Also, I will talk with Filius about both of your end of the year projects. Both of you, for my end of year project, at a minimum, will need to compete with me in a duel of Transfiguration only for a minimum of 10 minutes. I am quite sure both of you are past year 4's curriculum so let's say a duel including up to 6th year material."
Both looked at each other, carrying a silent conversation before turning back. Harry stating, "You're on Aunt Minnie."
Both noted a glint of mischief in their heads features as she clapped her hands together. Understanding forming as she stated her question, "Perfect. Now that I am no longer your teacher, let's get down to brass tacks. How's the wolf forms coming along?"
Their final week of class before the independent study occurred had become downright nasty. With both Harry and Hermione silently mused if McGonagall actually was a seer. Even with the public oath, it seemed by the numbers that half the school decided to turn against Harry with Ron leading the revolt of idiots, it seemed. Snape had made it his personal goal to remove all points from Gryffindor before the Yule Holiday. Removing over 200 house points from Harry alone by the 14th.
Standing outside the Potion's lab Harry found himself accosted once again by Malfoy and his goons. With a smirk Malfoy shot at Harry, "Oi, Scarhead like the badges? Can sell you one if you do?"
SUPPORT CEDRIC DIGGORY –
THE REAL HOGWARTS CHAMPION
Laughing at this Harry replied, "Well yes that would be a correct statement, Heir Malfoy. A statement I have already made as Hogwarts cannot have two champions. I am competing for House Potter, you nitwit."
"Yea well, this is the ingenious part." Malfoy sneered as the badge flashed its second message
POTTER STINKS!
At that Harry all but fell over, dying of laughter. Noting the confusion adorning many of his classmates Harry righted himself as he silkily replied, "Oh you poor child. What are you four? You've had what almost 3 weeks to come up with something and that your best. I'd bet you didn't even perform the magic yourself." Pausing to add affect as he let some of his aura out as his eyes started to glow. He then continued as he gained the reaction he desired.
"Tisk, tisk Cousin… I must say I find myself regretfully… Disappointed." Harry finished as a feeling of cold silk descended from his words. He grinned at the ashen looks many of them adopted. Malfoy soon stuttered out
"Yea well I doubt you could even come up with anything."
"Like in the next five minutes? Hmm… let's see." Harry said as he wandlessly summoned the badges. Amused at the ponce's look of superiority.
SUPPORT the MAFOYs –
A Bastard Heir Would Be Less Repugnant
The group was chuckling now as Harry added, "No? Well then how about this?"
CHARITY EXCEPTED!
Daily Wit-Sharpening Potions Needed
As the last message read across the badges Harry couldn't help but sneer at the look of anger Malfoy adopted. Rousing him even further, "That was quite basic too, Malfoy, and all before class. Yet it took you weeks to create that childish statement. You must really be a disappointment…" Harry never got to finish his statement as Malfoy lashed out with his wand,
"Furnunculus!"Malfoy Roared.
Harry, narrowing his eyes at the attack, smoothly drew out his Thunderbird-Thestral wand batting the spell away in the same motion. Still seeing red Draco continued his attack,
"Densaugeo!"
Quickly sidestepping the attack, but catching a groan of pain from behind Harry lashed out silently,
"Expelliarmus!.. Depulso!" As he caught Draco's wand he incanted, "Epoximise," the moment Malfoy connected violently with the stone wall, fusing the boy to the wall. Pocketing the ponce's wand, he turned to see Hermione was the person who the spell connected with. Three steps and he was at her side, a look of worry contorting to his features.
"I'm sorry Hermione. I didn't know anyone was behind me. Here hold on. 'Finite'" Once he noticed the growth had stilled, he lifted her chin whispering to her, "Don't worry. Madam Pomfrey will have this fixed easy enough. Now you let me take care of the rubbish and we'll be gone." At her nod he pecked her temple and turned back to the Malfoy Heir. Without a care in the world, he approached the boy who was struggling to breath from his injuries. Noting the look of fury, and the chill that descended upon them again, not a single Slytherin moved to Draco's aid.
Looking at the group that surrounded them, Harry couldn't help but laugh before turning back to the boy. Softly speaking but heard by everyone he stated,
"Now listen good, Dear Cousin. You spout on and on about me and anyone you deem less than your vaunted blood purity needing to respect our betters. That we are unworthy of Magic's blessings, but in three simple spells I have you exactly where I would want you.
Disarmed…
Concussed…
Physically Damaged…
and incapable of continuing a fight.
Had I known Miss Granger was behind me I would simply have batted away your pathetic excuse of an attack. Had Miss Granger and I been betrothed I would have every right to end the Malfoy line where you now stand fused to the castle wall for attacking a future Lady of my House. This is your final warning Draco. You see yourself as my equal, but I have outstripped you in every way imaginable. Do you truly desire to see if I am that mediocre wizard you spout about to the Slytherin common room? Remember Draco, I have you exactly where I want you." He finished, lightly patting the boy's cheek.
As he turned and strode over to Hermione, plucked both their bags off the ground, pulled out Draco's wand and tossed it into the shadows,
"I look forward to the meeting with the Headmaster and yourself Professor Snape. Circe knows you won't punish your Godson." As he turned to lead Hermione to the Hospital Wing the student groups parted allowing them to pass.
As he was reluctantly led away from Hermione's hospital bed by Collin Creevey, Harry mentally prepared for what he was being led to. As the excitable Gryffindor led him, he worked on his occlumency in an attempt to ignore the child. Soon after, thanking Colin for collecting him and walked into the previously unused classroom.
It was a fairly small classroom, sparsely populated with class equipment and a large space in the middle. Ludo Bagman seated in one of the velvet chairs talking to a witch Harry had never seen before, who was wearing magenta robes, and the three other champions seated throughout the room
Spotting Harry, Bagman rushed forward. "Ah, here he is! Champion number four! Nothing to worry about, it's just the wand weighing ceremony. We now are just waiting for the rest of the competitions judges."
"Wand weighing?" Harry repeated
"We have to check that your wands are fully functional, no problems, you know, as they're your most important tools in the tasks ahead," said Bagman. "The expert's upstairs now with Dumbledore. And then there's going to be a little photo shoot. This is Rita Skeeter," he added, gesturing toward the witch in magenta robes. "She's doing a small piece on the tournament for the Daily Prophet. …"
"Maybe not that small, Ludo," said Rita Skeeter, her eyes on Harry.
"I wonder if I could have a little word with Harry before we start?" she said to Bagman, but still gazing fixedly at Harry. "The youngest champion, you know … to add a bit of color?"
"Certainly!" cried Bagman. "That is if Harry has no objection?"
"Er… No none of this was deemed mandatory…." said Harry.
"Lovely," said Rita Skeeter cutting him off, and in a second, she had grasped Harry's upper arm steering him out of the room again and opening a nearby door.
"We don't want to be in there with all that noise," she said. "Let's see … ah, yes, this is nice and cozy."
'A broom cupboard. Really?' Harry thought quirking his eyebrow as he stared at her.
Rita Skeeter perched herself upon an upturned bucket, pushing Harry down onto a cardboard box, and closing the door, throwing them into darkness.
"Let's see now …" But Harry cut her off as he silenced and warded the door
"Listen here Ms Skeeter. You might not know it, but you are talking to your boss' boss. It also doesn't help that you smell buggy." At her whitening features he continued, "Now please nod if you wish to keep your job…" As she acquiesced, Harry went to continue but the door was ripped open interrupting their conversation. The Headmaster before them
"Dumbledore!" cried Rita Skeeter, with every appearance of delight. Excited to escape from Harry before demands started.
"Good Afternoon, Headmaster. How are you?" Harry nonchalantly stated
"I would be quite well Harry, if I did not have to deal with other issues. Which reminds me, I require you to stop by my office this evening."
"Of course, Headmaster." Harry stated through a grin that unnerved both the adults in the room.
Dumbledore gaining composure first asked, "Now is everything ok in here?"
"Quite Sir. Not the way I imagined time inside a broom cupboard would be, but I feel me, and Ms. Skeeter have come to an… Understanding. Isn't that correct Ma'am?"
"Y..yesss." She stuttered out as she practically ran from the room. Leaving both men chuckling.
Harry turning to Dumbledore stated, "I thought that would be funny. Now for this evening," He paused fishing out a vial from his bag and putting his wand to his temple drawing out the memory of the event. Handing it to the Professor, "For your viewing pleasure, Sir. Me and Professor McGonagall will be at the meeting this evening."
Surprised at the offer Dumbledore stated, "Yes, well thank you Harry. Now let's not keep them waiting" As he led the young wizard out. Harry stopped next to the other champions as Dumbledore continued forward before stating the room,
"May I introduce Mr. Ollivander. He is here to check your wands. Ensuring their condition before the tournament." said Dumbledore
Smiling Harry waved to the aged wand maker.
"Mademoiselle Delacour, could we have you first, please?" said Mr. Ollivander, stepping into the empty space in the middle of the room. Fleur Delacour swept over to Mr. Ollivander and handed him her wand. Twirling the wand between his fingers as he examined the wand.
"Hmmm …" he said before continuing "Yes," he said quietly, "9½", inflexible, rosewood core of… Oh dear me."
"An 'air from ze 'ead of a veela," said Fleur. "One of my grandmuzzer's." 'Not truly a surprise' Harry mentally noted
"Yes," said Mr. Ollivander, "yes, I've never used veela hair my-self, of course. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands … however, to each his own, and if this suits you … 'Orchideous!'" Producing a bouquet of Roses from the wand tip.
"It's in fine working order," said Mr. Ollivander handing them to Fleur with her wand.
"Mr. Diggory, you are next."
"Ah, now, this is one of mine, isn't it?" said Mr. Ollivander, with much more enthusiasm, as Cedric handed over his wand. "Yes, I remember it well. Containing a single hair from the tail of a particularly fine male unicorn…; nearly gored me with his horn as I was plucking his tail. 12¼", ash, & pleasantly springy. It's in fine condition. You treat it regularly?"
"Polished it last night," said Cedric, grinning. Mr. Ollivander sent a stream of silver smoke rings across the room from the tip of Cedric's wand, pronounced himself satisfied, and then said,
"Mr. Krum, if you please."
Viktor Krum got up and slouched, round-shouldered and duck-footed, toward Mr. Ollivander. He thrust out his wand and stood scowling, with his hands in the pockets of his robes.
"Hmm," said Mr. Ollivander, "this is a Gregorovitch creation, unless I'm much mistaken? A fine wand-maker, though the styling is never quite what I however"
He lifted the wand and examined it minutely, turning it over and over before his eyes.
"Yes, hornbeam and dragon heartstring?" he shot at Krum, who nodded. "Rather thicker than one usually sees quite rigid, 10¼", 'Avis!'" The hornbeam wand let off a blast like a gun, and a number of small, twittering birds flew out of the end and through the open window into the watery sunlight.
"Good," said Mr. Ollivander, handing Krum back his wand. "Which leaves you… Mr. Potter."
Harry got to his feet and sliding past Krum to Mr. Ollivander. He handed over his wand.
"Aaaah, yes," said Mr. Ollivander, his pale eyes suddenly gleam-ing. "Yes, yes, yes. How well I remember. It was quite sad we had to remake this for you Mr. Potter."
"Quite, but this one has suited me well."
"This wand has been enjoying its time so far with you… You train well with this wand. Most certainly have earned its trust and it respects its partner. You've had no issues with the combination?"
Chuckling to internally, Harry replied, "Yes we have gotten along quite well. It is simply more demanding… Much like you said it would be this summer. I seem to enjoy demanding presences in my life…"
"What are you talking about, Olivander?" Rita interjected
"Oh, Mr. Potter here outgrew his wand this summer. We were able to still use the Phoenix Tail Feather, but he required a new wand wood of Elder." At this everyone gasped as he continued on. "Yes, yes… it is even more miraculous that Mr. Potter here has been able to, so far, master the wand as both components are notorious for being difficult to master alone. I am sure they are even more difficult to work with when paired together. Again, as I have said before, Mr. Potter, we should expect great things from you…" the Wandmaker stated as he conjured wine from Harry's Wand
"They are all in working order." Olivander stated handing Harry back his wand.
"Thank you all for coming. You are free to leave…" Dumbledore started to say before Mr. Bagman cut in
"Photos, Dumbledore… Photos"
"Oh… Yes, before that though. The first task is set for the 24th. Be prepared" Dumbledore finished.
It took another 30 minutes for the photos to cease. Harry quickly escaping to search for Hermione. Noting the time, he believed that she would be in the Great Hall for dinner. Finding her there they both discussed what occurred.
"Hermione, I cannot tell you how sorry I am for getting you hexed. I..I didn't know you were directly behind me. I guess I should have figured after I deflected away that first spell." Harry stated as he dropped his head
"It's fine Harry. We will talk about it later. With Snuffles…" She said through a small smile that caught Harry's eye. As he was looking, she caught his eye and smiled even brighter. Harry now fully catching what the difference was.
Leaning forward He whispered to her, "You know your smile was always beautiful. You never needed to change anything, Hermione. If it makes you happy, though, that is all that matters." His statement earning him a squeeze of the hand and a brilliant smile from her again. Both catching Ron's gaze on them as they looked up from each other. Scowling the redhead dipped his eyes and returned to his food. Neither desiring to deal with his jealousy, both quickly finished their meals and departed for the Headmaster's office before their sequestering into their corner of the library. Unconsciously linking their arms together.
Conjuring a simple bench for Hermione outside the gargoyle, Harry then, before ascended the stairs, sent off a Messenger Patronus to Aunt Minnie asking for her presence with the Headmaster. At her approach the two climbed to the Headmasters office.
"Ah, Harry, my Boy. Thank you for coming. Minerva thank you for bringing Harry. You can leave."
"Ah Albus, Old Man. Professor McGonagall will be staying here upon my request."
Sputtering and attempting to squelch some of his rage the Headmaster stated, "Now Harry, I have never given you leave to use my name so formally."
"As I have never given you the same, Albus. So, it will either be Heir or Mr. Potter from you, or this meeting will quickly come to an end and I will have to serve more detentions with Professor McGonagall simply due to you wasting her valuable time." Harry finished. Grinning at the bubbling rage that was slowly rising in front of him.
His eyes completely losing their twinkle Dumbledore replied, "Very well Mr. Potter. I must admit that I have been given a rather disturbing report that you attacked a fellow classmate this afternoon… What do you have to say for yourself?"
"Did you watch the memory I submitted to you, or are we only basing this accusation off of your pet Death Eater there in the corner." Harry calmly replied. Internally smirking at the whitening of Dumbledore's face and the scowl on Snape's face.
"Watch your tone. You insolent welp…" Snape never got to finish it as Minerva silenced him, turning to Harry asking,
"What occurred this afternoon, Mr. Potter?"
"That is simple. Watch the memory. After that we will discuss." Sighing Dumbledore rose from behind his desk, opened a nearby cabinet and pulled out the Pensive. Dumping the memory into the magical item the three adults entered the memory. Harry casually waiting for them to exit the memory.
20 minutes later, all three exited the memory, Dumbledore placed the item back for storage, returned to his desk and motioned to Harry as if stating 'by your leave'. To which Harry was all too happy to answer
"For Hexing a fellow classmate, I will serve 3 separate detentions with Professor McGonagall. As long as Malfoy receives the same…" Never getting to finish as Snape cut him off
"No. You will serve a month's worth of detentions. I see no reason to punish him for you goading him into his attack."
"Ah, cause you are such an unbiased representative. How long did your godson blow you before you agreed to his halfcocked, Gryfindorish scheme?" Noting the quick rise in fury within the petulant, man-child Harry continued, "You see you stood there in the shadows, allowing your delusional, idiotic godson to attempt to bully a fellow classmate, hoping to see me lash out the exact way that he did this afternoon because he's too stupid to not rise to the same bait thrown at him. If you spent half as much time teaching as you do trying to demean me this school might actually learn something in Potions." The professors having enough of his words snaped out over the top of each other.
"Watch your tone, Potter." Snape snarled
"MR. POTTER that will be another detention for your cheek." Minerva stated
"Har.. Mr. Potter" Dumbledore caught himself at the look in Harry's eye. "It is Professor Snape and you will report to those detentions with him. Furthermore, Mr. Potter, these actions of yours are most unbecoming in front of our guests for the year. You must learn to forgive and forget…"
"Professor Dumbledore, as I am no longer a student of Snape's as of the completion of the wand weighing ceremony, I do not have to even talk to that idiot of yours for the remainder of the year I will gladly report to my head of house for them but desire no dealings with that man. To your point about forgive and forget do you keep a rabid dog that bit you… No, you put it down because it is already lost. I will never strike first but as you see if they come after me or mine, I will drop them. Let us hope that Malfoy has learned his lesson, or shall we say that a harsher penalty shall be delt out…" Harry leaving it hanging
"And how do you believe that you are no longer his student, Mr. Potter?" Dumbledore stated failing to not look smug.
Grinning at the elderly wizard Harry silkily replied, "Because, Headmaster, I have been approved for Independent study…" Adopting a frown due to being cut off again
"That is not possible. Such things would have to be approved by your magical guardian. As such I have not given you leave for that."
Turning to Professor McGonagall Harry asked, "Professor. Who signed off my Hogsmeade permission form and was it accepted by magic to not be false?" Dumbledore aging before their eyes at the statement
"Why, Mr. Potter, it was Sirius Black. It was accepted by magic to be a true guardian, hmm…" His head of house replied smugly
"So, you see Professor Dumbledore, you are not my guardian, and yes I have the necessary paperwork completed and approved through my head of house. Due to the specifics of the Tournament's contract, I could have simply dropped all classes and unenrolled from this school due to me technically not being a part of it. Funny thing magic is… But Professor McGonagall and I reached a mutually beneficial agreement for the year." Harry paused to see if they would continue. Receiving none he stood stating, "Now seeing as you have no intention to punish the party that is in the wrong and have already made up your minds Headmaster and Snape, I will take my leave."
"You will sit down, Mr. Potter. You most certainly are in the wrong." The Headmaster stated calmly as he could.
His control slipping, releasing a hint of his aura, eyes glowing, Harry leaned over the Headmasters Desk scowling at him, "That's the thing Professor. I most certainly was in the wrong and had this been a reasonable discussion I would have gladly served with my head of house. I am humbly serving a detention for with Professor McGonagall for my language this evening, but will not serve anything further and do you know why?… Because I walked in here, to your office, already the only guilty party in your eyes. An explanation on my part was neither listened to nor desired by you. I know you have no plans to punish Malfoy, clearly showing to the entire student body and our Honored Guests that bullying is acceptable here. You desire for me to be belittled by this shit stain of a man, and to have me constantly isolated. I would almost say you desire a week little boy to do your bidding… How close am I to the mark, Professor?"
"No, no of course not Mr. Potter. Why would you ever state that?" the greying man sputtered out
"Your actions to date speak otherwise, Headmaster. You can keep your 'forgive and forget'. I have no need for it…" Harry snarked to the man as he turned to leave.
"I am most disappointed in you Mr. Potter." The Headmaster stated, grandfatherly again.
Turning back, the three saw, utter loathing slipping onto the young mage's features as he sneered a reply, "Yes. Well, I have thirteen years of disappointment to heap at your feet, Headmaster. Funny how that happens." Finished he simply turned and walked out to the sound of a large shouting match.
Hermione, upon seeing his expression, promptly strode to him crushing him in a massive hug. Neither moving, both understanding the issue that just occurred. As Harry relaxed his grip on her they both looked at each other before smiling and heading for their evening study. Their reserved table still loaded down with their books each diving into different assignments before switching and helping the other out. Homework finished, Harry pulled out Slytherin's journal on wards and how he designed them for Hogwarts himself.
Departing for bed immediately after entering the common room. Harry deciding to wash up at Avalon and hoping to head off the scolding Hermione was going to give him he immediately warded and whispered the activation phrase. Landing on his bed he looked up, Hermione was grinning down on him removing his escape. At noticing him gulp in fear her grin grew. Sweetly she said in a slightly sing song voice to start,
"Now, Harry James Potter, WHAT were you thinking! I am of half a mind to hex you into next week with your antics…" He never heard any more as he rolled off the bed in fear, sprinting for the door and hopefully making it to the broom shed before she could well and truly hex him. His hair and robes already transfigured…
As the pair ran past the library Sirius smirked, turning to Merlin, "You'd think those two would have figured it out by now. At least Hermione…"
"Probably some weird mating ritual that is in vogue now…" Merlin muttered flippantly
The withdrawal and start of independent study turned out to be a godsend for the pair earning them over two full extra months of preparation for the task at hand. Raiding and creating permanent copies of the tomes from the Hogwarts Library Restricted Section, too easy a task to pass up. Creating many where the only copy known to still exist in the world. Not wishing to have multiple copies they simply stored them in Harry's Library as was quickly becoming the duos hide out. The tomes continued to provide great material in preparation for the tasks.
Now sitting in the champion's tent Harry was struggling not to laugh. Even with what he assumed was 3 full extra weeks of preparation they each looked a nervous wreck. Finally, before the judges came in Harry couldn't take it any longer.
"Oi, you lot. Take a breath will Ya." He stated through. This was effective in snapping them all out of their pacing. Miss Delacour not being able to handle his relaxed state.
"What would you 'ave uz do? We know what we are about to face out zere. Can you zey ze zame?"
"Why yes I can Mademoiselle. Who do you think sent those letters telling you what the task was? I'll give you a hint… It was the owner of the dragon preserve." he finished with a grin. Internally he was rolling at the gapping faces in front of him.
"And just how did you come by this information Mr. Potter?" A perturbed Dumbledore asked.
"Good Afternoon Professor. That answer is quite simple. I asked Lord Ragnok for the information. He has been a most helpful individual over this summer. How did you think that I was able to claim my Heirship rings, Professor?" Not waiting for an answer Harry pushed on, "He told me about the audit. Such a shame. I do hope that you will soon have those items and funds returned by the 1st. It would be disastrous for you to incur more issues with the goblins… Now let's get onto the selection of our beasty.."
"Y..yes quite," Dumbledore stated frowning at the boys obvious knowledge of his family and financial/heirloom issues he had created by 'barrowing' the gold and items, "After the task we will be meeting to discuss this further."
"There you are mistaken, Professor. My family's station it is no concern of yours. I will maintain confidence with Lord Ragnok. My Family Business is just that. MY. Family. Business."
Frowning at the boy, Dumbledore chose to remain silent as Bagman stated walking into the tent, late,
"Well, now we're all here," said Bagman brightly. Holding up a small purple silk sack towards everyone he continued, "from this each of you will select a small model of the thing you are about to face! There are different errr varieties, you see. And I have to tell you something else too … ah, yes … your task is to collect the golden egg!"
As no one reacted to his words the buffoon continued "Er… Yes well Ladies first," he said, offering it to Fleur Delacour.
Slipping her hand inside the bag. She shakily drew out a tiny, perfect model of a dragon, the Welsh Green. It had the number two around its neck. Krum pulled out the scarlet Chinese Fireball numbered three around its neck. Cedric came out with the blueish-gray Swedish Short-Snout, and a number one tied around its neck. Realizing what was left, Harry shrugged put his hand into the silk bag and pulled out the Hungarian Horntail, and the number four. It stretched its wings as he looked down at it and bared its minuscule fangs.
"Well, there you are! You have each pulled out the dragon you will face, and the numbers refer to the order in which you are to take on the dragons, do you see? Now, I'm going to have to leave you in a moment, because I'm commentating. Mr. Diggory, you're first, just go out into the enclosure when you hear a whistle, all right? Now Harry, Er… could I have a quick word? Outside?"
Harry slipping outside turned and glared at the man who stuttered out his question from under that gaze, " Harry, D…do you have it all ready? Nervous for the task?"
"No Mr. Bagman. I do not require your assistance. Please refrain from wasting my time any further." Harry stated as he slipped back into the tent. Taking his relaxed seat again. Looking down at the figurine he felt out the magic imbued within it while taking out his wand. Slowly enchanting the item to be everlasting, and impenetrable for as long as he remembered the tournament. Looking up he grinned at the dumbfounded looks of his co-champions who had been witnessing him perform further enchantments.
"Well," he drawled out, "I'm happy to see I am able to get you three to relax some." They each shared an awkward smile as the first cannon let loose.
"Good Luck Diggory." Harry gave with a smile. Receiving a shaky thumbs up.
It continued on and on like this throughout the remaining two champions until it was only Harry left. Now growing slightly nervous, he fought to not turn to pacing the tent. Delved into his occlumency and worked to center himself and connect with his magical core. In what only seemed like a whisper of a moment he was shaken from his meditation by the final blast of the cannon. Hearing the roar of the beast that lay before him, and the persecution of the home crowd Harry couldn't help but smirk as he listened to his name be called, 'Time to show these sheep to never strike at the wolf.' He thought to himself as he walked out to the arena. Whispering to himself the Peverell Motto, "Født Til å Erobre" (Born to Conquer)
Staring into the golden eyes of the beautiful dragon in front of him was possibly the most unnerving thing that Harry had done to date. 'If this goes well, I think I'll have to reevaluate that within today though.' He laughed to himself. Turning his attention back to the Dragon he spoke to her
$Great Motherss! I humbly come before you to asksss for a tradesss$ At this the dragon turned to him eyeing him inquisitively
$Whatsss iss it you seeksss Youngling. Speak quick before I losesss what little patiencesss I have for yousss$
Smiling that this might work Harry continued, $Great Motherss, there isss a fake eggss within your clutchss. I wish to giftsss you with a meal of Goatsss if you allow me to summonss the fake from yoursss clutch$
At this the mother gained an enraged look upon her features, $Younglingss removesss this from my clutchss. It isss stealing warmth from my hatchlingsss$
$I willss Great Motherss! I will now usesss my Focusss to summonss the meal and then the fake for you$
With that he withdrew his wand and silently cast, 'Accio Hagrid's Chickens.' Soon 6 chickens flew into the stadium. Working quickly while laughing at the headmaster he transfigured them into goats quickly casting in succession over the area the goats were.
'Engorgio… Stupify'
Leaving them accessible for the dragon he waited till she had ate her fill to levitate and summon the golden egg. Bowing deeply, he thanked the mother dragon as he started to leave. As he was leaving the arena one of the goats slipped out of the mother's mouth crushing the clutch. Dropping his fake egg, he ran back to the Dragon as he witnessed and felt her great magical rage explode.
$WHATSSS have yousss younglingsss done! Wheresss my clutch? My hatchlings were strong. No simple dead beast could hurt them like that! I willsss destroy all of yousss!$
$Great Mothersss, your hatchingsss are safes$ Harry bellowed at her $We hid them from you to protect them from the competionsss. We desired no harm to them$ He tried to plea.
$You Took MY CUTCH and hid them Younglingsss. You will Diesss First$ As she stated this, she yanked the magical chain from the ground snapping each link. Breathing fire at the end of her statement.
Acting as fast as possible, before she moved, Harry was already acting,
"η αγκαλιά της γκάιας" A massive pull on his magic came as the earth transfigured, bending to his will, grasping to contain the mother dragon, as Harry commanded. Knowing this would not hold her, as she was quickly breaking out of the earth's containment, he acted, thinking quickly.
"Bombarda!" he cast at every boulder in the vicinity blowing each apart. With the rocky shrapnel he quickly transfigured every piece into a titanium needle and enlarged them until they were the size of small missiles. Seeing that she was almost free of the rocky binding quickly levitating the missiles into the air, switching to wandlessly holding the charm to free himself for further casting.
"WHERE ARE THE DAMN DRAGON HANDLERS?!" Harry snarled out but received no answer, turning back to the mother dragon he made one final plea,
$Great Motherss. Please calm down your Clutch is safe$
$YOU took my hatchingsss from me youngling. I will kill yousss. Nothing will stop me till one of usss hasss fallen!$
Bowing his head at her choice, with tears forming, whispered, $Very wellsss, Great Mothersss$
'Depulso!' he mentally screamed. Driving half of the missiles at the mother dragon who opened up a great burst of Dragon fire melting the first string of projectiles. Sadness enveloping him, for what was to come, he waited for her breath to recede. The brief whisper of a moment occurred, her magical fire receding. Silently, he banished the rest of the projectiles into her opened mouth where the fire once was. The life in her eyes left at their contact.
Dropping to his knees, Harry openly wept for the life he never wished to take. Slowly standing he walked to the downed magical creature. Whispering to her before he kissed her snout $Rest and be oness with Mother Magicss, Great mothersss. I will seess your hatchlingsss taken care ofss$
Turning back to the crowd that was completely silent he cast a Sonorous Charm on himself glaring at them,
"I hope you all are pleased with yourselves. Forcing these majestic mothers to come here and be a part of this farce of a competition. I don't know if those were her true hatchlings or not, but they never should have even been here. This loss of life, of magical life is disgusting. Where were any of you to help reign in this majestic creature… Sitting on your arses or fleeing like the sheep you are. You disgust me." Standing there thinking before he continued, his mind made up,
I, Harry James Potter, by Right of Conquest & by the 374th Law of Merlin, claim the Hungarian Horntail slain here today 24th of November, 1994 in single combat, So Mote it Be.
"Godric, I am tired of you lot." Harry stated before spitting on the ground, grabbing his egg and heading to the tent. Along the way he had Dobby collect the dragon and take it to Ragnok for rendering and evaluation.
"I wills see it done, Master Harry." As the elf bowed popping away