Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter.
The Pillars of The United Party
The dinner was in Lupin's classroom. Something Flitwick no doubt talked him into so the charms classroom could be spared of the festivities. The desks had been transfigured into tables long enough to hold the food and seat all those indenting. We were served Panzanella and Pasta Pomodoro. The menu had Zabini's name all over it, but no one was complaining.
As was YUP's intention, we sat scattered around the room; intermingling with members of different houses. Unsurprisingly, I had Adrian sitting on my left and Fred, George, and Ron sitting across from me. Only Ron looked displeased by the arrangement. But this is what happens when you decide to be cross with your best friend; you end up at the mercy of your 'caring' older siblings. Cedric sat on my left and amongst the six of us, the conversation was probably one that made him wish he was sitting at a different table.
"So, what you're saying is-" George began as he swung an arm over Ron's shoulders and started petting his hair like Ron was a much-beloved dog. "Is that you're finding more and more students leaving class because of ailments but they never turn up at the hospital wing?"
"Umm", Cedric tried to answer. Though it was hard to focus on the conversation with Ron attempting to get away from George and stuff his face at the same time. It didn't help that Fred sat on his other side and happily shoved him back in George's direction whenever he got too far. "Umm, yeah. It's the same ailments too; nosebleeds and vomiting".
"Sounds like an epidemic", Fred chimed in earnestly.
"Get off", Ron complained around a mouthful of pasta as he dug an elbow into George's side. Air was forced out of George's lungs. But other than that, Ron's bid for freedom passed unnoticed.
"Something must be going around", I agreed; masking Adrian's snort of disagreement. "Nosebleeds and vomiting you say? But no one's fainted yet?"
Cedric turned towards me as Fred placed another arm over Ron's shoulders; effectively caging him in. Honestly, this shower-Ron-in-attention campaign had been going on since Halloween. You'd think by now he would have figured out to avoid us. "You've heard of this illness before?" Cedric asked. "Even Madam Pomfrey doesn't know what to make of it. Of course, that may be because she hasn't examined anyone yet".
"It does sound familiar", I said; patting Adrian's knee under the table as he shook his head. He was getting close to losing his patience with this game. And I bet, by the end of the evening, Cedric was going to know why so many students were getting out of class. "I was ill over the summer. Those were my symptoms as well".
Cedric's eyes widened as genuine concern leaked from his pores. Too easy.
"Yeah", Fred said, leaning in to collaborate on my claim. "Lots of nosebleeds and a fair amount of vomiting".
Giving up in his escape attempts, at least momentarily, Ron narrowed his eyes; like he was trying to recall this summer but was struggling to remember what we were referencing.
"Made our brother Charlie worry", George added. "One time, right when we were looking at our OWL results for the first time, Holly just started puking".
Despite a decently full plate in front of him, Adrian had his lips pressed in a thin line. This conversation wasn't suitable for him. Both due to the topic and because of the questionable truthfulness. And, fair. This was dinner and we were talking about bodily fluids.
"And then the fainting", Fred continued.
Shaking my head and shrugging haplessly, I said, "All I can say is that I've had better summers".
"Blimey", Cedric said; his voice a bit weak. "But you're alright now?"
"She's fine", Adrian broke in forcefully. "In fact, whenever I visited during the summer, Holly was right as rain". He wasn't looking at Cedric. Adrian's eyes were quite content boring his disapproval into my soul. It was an accomplishment I was feeling proud of.
"It came and went before stopping completely", I said with a smile in Cedric's direction while ignoring Ron's highly unimpressed look altogether. Though, based on his face, it looks like he's remembered Weasley Wizard Wheezes.
A spark of realization washed over Cedric. He sat up straighter. "That sounds just like the afflicted students".
It was my turn to press my lips together, although for a different reason. This was too much fun. Meaning it was too soon to start laughing. Fred and George were struggling as well; ducking their heads to keep the glee on their faces hidden. Cedric Diggory, the earnest and golden boy of Hufflepuff. Also known as the gift that keeps on giving all year.
All further conversation was cut short as the notable sound of silverware clinking against a goblet filled the room. The chatter stopped and heads swiveled to find the source. Some looked in my direction, but most figured that the person who would be asking for attention would be our guest of honor.
From his table that he occupied with the teachers and a few unexpectant guests, Lord Flint stood. As soon as he had our attention, he set done his knife and the clinging sound ended. "I'd like to start by thanking the Youth of the United Party for organizing this event and inviting me to speak. The food has been exquisite and the company divine. A job well done". Since he was still holding his goblet, Lord Flint offered applause by slapping his hand on his forearm hard enough to make a clapping sound. But it had the desired effect. It only took a few seconds for others in the room to follow suit. Although they clapped properly. At the table across from us, Neville accepted the praise with a blush while Zabini preened. "I would also like to think everyone who is attending. Due to your club president ruthlessly advocating for you, I am aware of the concerns many of you are feeling about your club being tied to the United Party". Lord Flint's eyes found me in the room. He offered me a friendly smile filled with comradery as he finished his sentence. Git.
Those in the room who only knew me as YUP's president or as one of the Weasley triplets looked at Lord Flint with sympathy. Those who knew me personally gave me knowing but appreciative stares. While those who knew me personally and had an inkling of what my back and forth with Lord Flint was like either sniggered or shook their heads in exasperation. The ones who didn't seem to have any take to what Lord Flint said were the unexpectant guests; Madam Maxime and Fleur. And how did they end up joining us? Well…
The pictures for Skeeter's stupid story took the longest. The lighting needed to be just right. People needed to be positioned in certain ways to 'sell the shot', as we were told. Throughout it, Lord Flint, McGonagall, and Sirius worked in tandem to keep things tasteful and progressing. As well as keeping Harry out of it as much as they could.
Probably as much as one would expect, Fleur shined under the attention. While Krum accepted the advances for Skeeter and her photographer with a resigned detachment. Acting like someone who was too used to being a focal point for reporters. Though Karkaroff prodding Skeeter to ask more questions and the photographer to take more pictures added additional challenges for Krum's demeanor.
Adrian, when not being asked to pose for the camera, chose to answer any questions directed at him while standing next to me. As if needing an anchoring point, he kept one hand rested on the swell of my hip. Over my robes and shirt, I could feel him drawing circles with his thumb.
Most of the questions were generic and focused on the tournament. What made you want to enter the tournament? How do you feel about the challenges ahead? What differentiates you from the others who were aiming to be champion? What do you make of the competition?
Under the watchful eyes of the head teachers and interested parties, it was difficult for Skeeter to ask anything she'd really like to know. Though I'm sure Skeeter's quick-quotes-quill will have no problem spicing up the champions' answers.
Adrian answered his questions calmly with concise and hard-to-misinterpret responses. They sounded rehearsed. And based on the number of times Adrian managed to weasel in a praising comment about the United Party, it probably was.
But some of the questions did stray to personal matters. It was hard for Skeeter to interview Fleur without wondering about her heritage. It was impossible for Skeeter to talk to Krum without touching on his quidditch career. Fleur and Krum had different tactics for handling these invasions of privacy. Fleur was tactful as she redirected any question about her bloodline back to her accomplishments as a witch. While Krum allowed Karkaroff to answer any question he did not wish to. Which were most of them.
Adrian wasn't spared either. "How does it feel to have the prestige of being Hogwarts' champion ripped away from you by a younger classman?" Skeeter wanted to know.
"The prestige was not ripped away from me", Adrian answered as he pressed his thumb into my back before resuming his self-soothing circles. "I have the honor of sharing it with Mr. Potter".
Skeeter pushed her glasses high up her nose, making her eyes appear very bug-like. "You're not concerned Potter entered the tournament by completely disregarding the age restriction? Quite a few would call that cheating."
Taking a deep breath, Adrian answered this question just as he had all the others. "I do not believe Potter put his name into the Goblet of Fire. Potter and I have competed against each other on the quidditch pitch since his first year of school. I've also had the chance to get to know Potter through a school club we are both members of, The Youth of The United Party. Potter has always struck me as an honest and kind person. He would never cheat". Adrian's voice was unwavering and it caused Skeeter to take a step back. That's my man.
"I'm afraid it's time to end the interviews, Ms. Skeeter", McGonagall broke in before Skeeter could move on to something else she could use as gossip. "Our champions are still students. And they will need to eat dinner before returning to their studies".
"Oh, very well", Skeeter said; the muscles in her face tight with annoyance. But she packed up her parchment and quill as she urged all the champions to keep a weathered eye out for the latest editions of the Daily Prophet. For the chance that they might see their names in print.
"I'll show you, Ms. Umbridge, and Mr. Bagman out", McGonagall said as Krum beat everyone to the door; making an exit before anyone else could.
Laughing in what he thought was a display of his good nature, Karkaroff followed at a slower rate. "He's just very hungry", he said, excusing Krum's behavior before hurrying after his pupil.
"Excellent work", Lord Flint complimented as McGonagall escorted the reporters and the ministry officials out of the room. "We thank you for your time".
As soon as the door closed behind the group it suddenly became easier to breathe. Adrian stopped drawing repetitive circles on my hip while I slumped against him; releasing a long exhale. I didn't even have to do anything other than stand still and keep my mouth shut. But even I was tired.
"What an 'orrible woman", Fleur announced to her headmistress. It was unclear if she was referring to Skeeter or Umbridge. But, either way, I couldn't agree more.
Meanwhile, Sirius busied himself with checking in with Harry. It was unnecessary. Considering that he hadn't left Harry on his own this entire time. Not that Harry seemed to mind. Harry was quite happy to thank Sirius for not allowing anyone to ask him about his scar or how he got it.
"Madame Maxime, young lady", Lord Flint said in acknowledgment of the French citizens in the room. But he made his voice carry for all of us to hear. "It was a pleasure to meet you. And I'm sure it will not be the last time we cross paths. However, we must take leave of you. There is another event the five of us need to get to".
Madame Maxime raised a large sculpted eyebrow. "What event is zis?"
"A dinner", Adrian supplied after a look from Lord Flint prompted him to do so. I guess it's a good thing one of us can interpret his facial expressions. "For a club the three of us are involved in", Adrian continued once he had both Fleur and Madame Maxime's eyes on him. "Professor Black frequently supervises club activities. And Lord Flint is acting as a guest speaker for this event".
"YUP", Fleur guessed. Admittedly, hearing her use the abbreviated name felt too informal for her. "Ze club you were talking about earlier".
"Yes", I confirmed. "Lord Flint is helping us promote our cause". He's also helping us to spread his own agenda and to gain a follow so he can wrestle power away from other groups. But even I have the sense not to say such things in my present company.
"That's why our club is called the Youth of the United Party", Harry added; suddenly feeling comfortable enough to do so now that the reporters were no longer in the room. His eyes were on Fleur as he explained. Color rose to his cheeks as the Beauxbaton champion turned her attention to him. "Er… YUP. That's what YUP stands for".
Sirius tried not to snicker at Harry's awkwardness as Lord Flint took the reins once more. "Yes, I'm very proud of these young people. They organized as a group to encourage others to unite despite their differences. Which is exactly what my campaign is endeavoring to accomplish". Lord Flint paused long enough to give Madame Maxime a considering look. "Madame Maxime, why don't you and your student join us tonight? I'm planning on sharing my viewpoints further, and I would love to hear your opinions and insight on my talking points".
… How long had Lord Flint planned this?
"I'm sure it will be no problem for two more to join. Especially for such esteemed guests like yourselves", Lord Flint's eyes flashed over to me.
I didn't need Adrian this time to piece together what Lord Flint wanted. "Not all. Please join us", I said.
And that's the story of how we gained our 'unexpectant' guests.
"Rest assured", Lord Flint continued. "I am here tonight to explain what the United Party is and what it represents. I will discuss the mission of the United Party and how the Youth of the United Party is immensely important to us. I will gladly answer any questions you may have and listen to any concerns I am unable to assuage for you".
Taking a sip from my water goblet to hide my face, I frowned. Everything Lord Flint just promised was all well and good. But it's not what I asked… demanded him to do in my letter. He better work in what I requested. Or there would be more letters I would have to write.
"Please raise your hand if you have ever felt isolated or signaled out for being yourself. That could be due to your blood status-"
The muggleborns in the room shot their hands in the air. But none as fast as Baddock. Curious enough, a few purebloods raised their hands as well. Although, not as eagerly.
"Your heritage". Taking the lead, Flitwick's hand was the first in the air. Although he was so short it was hard to see. Soon after Flitwick, Fleur boldly followed. It was an act that seemed to surprise her headmistress if the look on Madam Maxime's face was anything to go by. However, it didn't last long. Soon, without raising her hand, Madam Maxime bowed her head in agreement.
"Perhaps it was certain personal experiences or personal opinions that made you feel this way".
Harry and Sirius raised their hands after an agreeing look passed between them from their separate tables. Made sense. Harry was famous for an event he had no say in. And Sirius was a wrongfully labeled convict for many years. Slowly and reluctantly, I raised my hand as well. Everything that happened with Lockhart/ Riddle definitely made me feel signaled out. But we weren't the only ones raising our hands. Just about every hand in the room was held high above a head at this point, thanks to Lord Flint's carefully worded speech.
Nodding to communicate that he sees us, Lord Flint went on to say, "The United Party was founded by witches and wizards who also would have raised their hands". After Lord Flint made a gesture with his free hand, anyone with a hand in the air lowered them. "As far as tradition stretches, we, as a society, have attempted to organize our people into neat and well-defined categories. And any interaction between people of different categories has been scrutinized as troubling or problematic". Lord Flint paused to let his words feel appropriately heavy.
"As I've come to realize not too long ago, such a system is wasting our potential as a society. The magical community is filled with talent. However, it is talent squandered when we are not free to openly communicate, explore, and question. Therefore, the primary mission of the United Party is to encourage the end of limitations. As the leader of the United party, it is my wish that all will one day be free of fulfilling a predestined role decided by whatever category they fall into". Lord Flint spoke animatedly and confidently. Just like our most seasoned teachers, he was commanding everyone's attention with seemingly little effort. Everyone was barely moving as they listened. Well… except for Dennis who was physically incapable of staying still.
"We believe that such a mission will only be obtainable if we create a dialogue and unity despite our differences; to be able to safely talk and contribute to any area of concern that faces society. It is alright, expected, and dare I say beneficial, for differences to exist. In the United Party, we recognize that we will not always agree; an individual in the party may not always get their way. However, we endeavor that they will feel heard".
I had to take another sip of water to hide my face. Damn, that sounded like a campaign promise that would never be fulfilled. Bitterly, it made me a tad nostalgic for Jessie's college days. By the time I set my goblet down, it was empty. Adrian refilled it without being asked or offering. As if he knew I'd be needing it.
"However", Lord Flint continued. "The United Party is not enough. The United Party represents adults. Adults, myself included, who will struggle to challenge and change the habits and viewpoints we formed after being sorted into categories. You, the Youth of the United Party, are young. Your minds have not surrendered to the simplistic belief that certain differences make it impossible for some groups to work together.
"Take, for example, the Hogwarts houses and your own club activities, which I'm very happy to sponsor financially. You represent four groups of students sorted based on shared valued qualities; bravery, ambition, integrity, and intellect. I remember my time in these halls and know that the houses rarely socialized outside their own. But through your club, students from all houses are studying together, playing together, talking to each other, and most importantly, supporting each other".
A few students started to sit up straighter as Flitwick and the other teachers beamed at us in pride. Lord Flint's compliment may not be directed at them. But the accomplishments of students were always something to be delighted by. As Flitwick liked to press upon me.
To keep his voice from sounding dry, Lord Flint took a drink before continuing. "During the initial days of the United Party, I asked children from families who were willing to join my initiative to come together. Not just outside of school. But in these halls specifically. I asked them to share their new unity and the value they now place on differences". Which wasn't true at all. Though I understood this was a more PR-friendly explanation. What Lord had asked of us was to find others willing to give Lord Flint their support and establish a presence in Hogwarts. Tomato tomahto, right?
"In response to my request, they formed the Youth of the United Party. During his last year in school, my son, Marcus was fortunate to be a part of the club's founding. This summer he regaled me with stories of how all the houses came together to honor their teachers, stand up for friends together, give the different houses a voice, and, from what I'm told, threw a stupendous party".
Many who were involved in the party last year grinned. Especially those on the Gryffindor quidditch team for who the party was celebrating. Lord Flint allowed the room to remember the fun from that party before continuing. "I could not express enough how impressed and pleased I am with the effort the Youth of the United Party has put forth to push past previous generational shortcomings. Truly, your efforts here will open doors for many in the future".
Lord Flint paused. This time not to let his words sink in or to read the room. But to shift direction. "I was thrilled to learn one of your own had been selected as Hogwarts Champion". At this statement, Harry ducked his head and hid behind his bangs. Though that didn't stop Hermione from reassuringly patting his arm. Lord Flint gestured a hand in Adrian's direction. Always one to live up to expectations… well, at least in this life, Adria pulled back his shoulders. "Having been a part since the beginning of the United Party and this club, and an extraordinary example of someone who has challenged some of his old opinions, Mr. Pucey agreed to use this tournament to help me spread the word of what strength unity, loyalty, and unvarying consideration can bring to our society.
"However", with that one word, Lord Flint's countenance suddenly darkened. "This opportunity to promote the three pillars of the United party; unity, strength, and unvarying consideration, is darkened by the blatant sabotage of the tournament and the endangerment of an innocent boy".
Finally! I perked up in my seat and didn't feel the need to hide my face behind my water goblet. Meanwhile, Ron had taken to staring glumly down at his empty plate. He better be listening.
"Representing both my law firm and the United Party, I stand in my belief and support of Mr. Potter". All eyes turned toward the boy in question. Though it was hard to get a good look at him based on how hunched his shoulders were. "I am horrified to think who would enter a student into dangerous tests of magic without their knowledge or consent. Or without the knowledge or consent of the student's guardian. Anyone who would do so does not wish Mr. Potter well. Let me assure you".
Flint took the time to take a deep breath. As if needing it to compose himself. He could be an actor if he wanted to. "Although, there is a comfort to be found in knowing that Mr. Potter will be facing the tournament alongside someone who shares his values; unity, loyalty, and unvarying consideration. Because they are in the same club. It is comforting to know that both Hogwarts champions, and perhaps the beautiful Beauxbatons champion as well, will be supported through the three pillars. For much can be overcome by committing ourselves to unity, loyalty, and unvarying consideration".
In the last long pause of the night, Lord Flint took his time to look around the room; trying to make eye contact with as many as he could. "Now", Lord Flint said to break the spell his speech had cast over most in the room; clapping his hands together once. "Does anyone have questions about the United Party or anything we've discussed?"
About a dozen hands were in the air before Lord Flint had finished asking.