Once they arrived at the castle, Harry, Ron, and Hermione found their spots at the Gryffindor table, and sat through the Sorting ceremony, which seemed to go by rather quickly. Then Professor Dumbledore made an announcement about the upcoming events, specifically about the Triwizard Tournament, and how Hogwarts was to be hosting it. No one under seventeen could enter though Fred and George swore that they would try to find a way, even though they were obviously underage.
Suddenly, the double doors to the Great Hall flew open to reveal two people. Everyone recognized Mad-Eye Moody at once, but no one knew who the other person, a girl of about Harry's age, was. No one that is except Draco Malfoy. He watched as Vernelle followed Moody up to the staff table. Moody and Dumbledore had a quick conversation in hushed tones; then Dumbledore shook hands with Vernelle and motioned for her to go sit at the Slytherin table.
"I'd like to welcome a new student." Dumbledore announced as Vernelle sat down. "Everyone, this is Miss Vernelle Carna.. Carnack. Because of prior arrangements, she will not be sorted by the hat, but will be placed in the house of Slytherin."
His voice lowered as he looked at Vernelle. Something told Malfoy that Dumbledore knew her as well, for he continued to stare at her as everyone, especially the Slytherins, applauded. Draco switched spots with Goyle to sit next to Vernelle, and tapped her on the shoulder. She turned to him.
"H-hi Vernelle." he said.
"Oh." she replied. "It's you. I didn't think I'd see you again."
"I didn't think so either." Draco replied. "Are you here on His business?"
"Yes." Vernelle replied. "you must tell no one who I am or what I'm doing here. Not even those who support my father's cause can know."
"You have my word. I'll tell no one."
Harry looked at Vernelle. She seemed so familiar. Twice, she made eye-contact with him, but each time, she quickly looked away.
"Come on, Harry." Ron said. "We've never seen her before. Worry about it later."
"Yeah.." Harry agreed reluctantly, bringing his attention back to Ron and Hermione.
"You know," Hermione spoke a minute later, "Her eyes are a bit familiar."
Ron gave an impatient groan and looked.
"Maybe we passed her once or twice at the World Cup.."
That could be.. Harry thought. But there's something that doesn't quite fit..
He had seen Vernelle before; that, he knew. But it annoyed him beyond all other that he couldn't remember where...