Magical Origins
Year 4: A School Divided
When Harry woke up the next morning, he was greeted with the morning sunlight. The party last night in Slytherin was intense. Everyone in Slytherin was impressed that Harry managed to outsmart Dumbledore. Some Slytherins hope Harry to pay back Diggory for catching the snitch in their last Quidditch match. Harry, for the time being, knew he had to play as if he outsmarted Dumbledore.
Getting up, Harry cast a look at Blaise, who just finishing up getting dressed.
"Do you believe I entered myself?" Harry asks him.
"No," Blaise said simply. He turns to look at Harry. "I know you didn't enter," Blaise said.
Harry sighs. "At least you know me well enough to know I'm not going to enjoy this," said Harry.
"Even so, I bet you Weasley is going around spreading rumors about how you cheated to enter," said Blaise.
Harry gives another sigh. "I know. My main concern is Hufflepuff."
Blaise sent him a curious look, a single eyebrow raised in an obvious implication to Have Harry explain that last statement.
"Hufflepuff will believe I'm trying to steal their chance at glory. You know as well as I do their house is often overlooked and doesn't get much recognition. They're going to feel I'm trying to steal their moment." Harry said.
"Damn Puffs. Well, the whole school is going to be talking about you being the Fourth Champion. This is where things going to get difficult." Blaise said.
'That is true. I won't have any support from Hufflepuff. They're all behind Diggory. Gryffindor isn't going to support me either. Well, Lily will.'
Harry knew Gryffindor didn't really like Harry. He was unpopular with them having beaten them in Quidditch twice last year. Added since the youngest Weasley boy repeatedly went as far as he could to make up stories about him. Making it seem to everyone in Gryffindor like he was some Dark Lord in training. Harry hated it, every year and almost every day, Ron would tell some grand tale of how evil Harry was and besmirching his reputation. He prayed Weasley was keeping his mouth shut and keeping in mind that if he caused Harry any trouble, then a magical dispute would be called to settle his past infractions.
Though the thought of making Weasley unhappy as he was, Triwizard Champion did bring a smile to his face. He was sure Ron was beside himself in jealousy. Especially that it was Slytherin that had a Champion for the Triwizard Tournament. Harry very pointedly remembered him telling the Gryffindors that Hogwarts didn't need a Slytherin Champion.
This caused Harry to smirk as he realized there were certain perks he could take advantage of from being Slytherin Champion. Oh, he couldn't wait to rub it in Weasley's face.
Harry paused as he realized he needed to speak to his Vassals and to Sirius. He opens his trunk and pulls out the mirror Sirius gave him before he left for Hogwarts.
Harry picks it up and pockets it inside his robes. He turns around and leaves. He was sure the Daily Prophet would be running an article on the champions sometime today. It was best they heard about it from him instead of the newspaper. He went down to the Great Hall for breakfast. However, he didn't stay. He merely grabs a plate and piles it with food before walking out to the courtyard to eat his breakfast. Harry said nothing to anyone as he ate in silence before he sets his plate down. He gets up before putting the plate down at the table before walking up the stairs towards one of the towers. He knew that he would have privacy and could speak freely there.
Harry sits down and pulls out his mirror.
"Sirius Black," Harry said, speaking to the mirror.
Harry waited a couple of minutes before Sirius' face appeared in the mirror.
"Sup cub, everything okay?" Sirius asks.
"No, there is something I need to tell you before you read about it in the paper," Harry said. Sirius said nothing as Harry explained everything that transpired.
"Wait, you're one of the Champions. I thought only those who were seventeen would be allowed to enter." Sirius said after Harry finished explaining what transpired.
"I need you to summon the Vassals. I need to speak to them." Harry said in a firm tone of voice.
Sirius nodded his head and disappeared from the mirror.
Harry sets down the mirror and looks out the window.
Mad-Eye Moody may be paranoid, but he wasn't wrong. He did have enemies. The Death Eaters were no friends of his. However, he had no confrontation with them before. So, he couldn't help but wonder why would they suddenly make a move against him. The real question was, who could have placed his name in the Goblet of Fire? The tournament did have a high death toll. So, his enemies might have been attempting to eliminate him without actually getting their hands dirty. It would make sense to get rid of him without having to fight him and potentially implicate themselves.
Harry sighs as he walks out of the tower and back downstairs. He wouldn't get anything by moping around.
Harry had just entered the Great Hall when Professor Snape walks up to him.
"Potter, with me." He instructed.
Harry gives a quiet sigh as he follows his Head of House. He took Harry towards an unused classroom and opens the door. Inside were his entire Vassals along with Sirius.
"I'll make sure no one disturbs you," Snape said as he closes the door.
"We heard from Sirius, its true? You're a Hogwarts Champion." Samuel said.
"Yeah," Harry said before going into what happened on the night of the selection. Thankfully, none of his Vassals said a word as he told them what happened.
"Could Blanche be behind this?" Artemis said as she looks at her parents the moment Harry finished.
"Blanche?" Harry repeated in confusion.
"They're a radical group of wizards who seek to overthrow the Great House of Lords and the Magical Government. Sometimes they try to eliminate promising young witches and wizards from a Great House to improve their own means." Olivia said. "They're one of our biggest concerns and problems in the magical world."
"No, I don't think so," Samuel said. "Although they have targeted magical children in the past, this doesn't fit their profile. They would normally get others to do their work for them. Other students. It is true if someone wants you to die, then this tournament is the proper way to do it."
"There are… Death Eaters, we have to take into consideration." Isabelle Morgan said slowly. "Karkaroff may have…"
"Wait, the Durmstrang Headmaster is a…" Harry said in surprise.
"Oh, yes. Moody captured him in the last war. However, he said he would repent for his crimes and gave a list of names of fellow Death Eaters to avoid a stay in Azkaban." Isabelle Morgan said.
"Say what you want of Karkaroff, I don't think he would do anything for the Death Eaters anymore." Ruby Pearce said in a slow voice.
"Unless he's seeking to regain their favor. Eliminating Harry Potter would be a good way to get back in their circle." Henry Morgan said.
"Then, there's Snape." Ethan Pearce replies.
"No, I don't think so," Sirius said steadily voice. "I may not like the greasy git, but I don't think he would do anything to upset Dumbledore. It was only thanks to Dumbledore's protection that he managed to avoid a prison sentence. He knows if he messes up, then he's off to Azkaban."
"He does hate the Potters." Ruby Pearce said cautiously.
"He does, indeed. I have to agree with Sirius on this matter. Snape will not risk his position to have his own vengeance. Also, if what Dumbledore told me is true, then Snape swore oaths to ensure as long as Harry is under Hogwarts protection, that he would protect the boy." Samuel said.
"So, we're in the bind. We don't know who put your name in the Goblet of Fire, yet you have to compete." Edward Morgan said.
"The best we can do is provide support. To do that, we have to help you with spells and objectives. We really can't find out who put your name in the Goblet. All we can say is keep an attentive eye out for anyone acting suspiciously." Lupin said as he was leaning on the desk.
"What is the first task?" Harry asks.
"We don't know specifically. Except for a few rare occasions, the trials do not often use the same challenges." Samuel said.
Harry sighs. "Well, it didn't hurt to ask. I hope everything isn't going to be this problematic for the rest of the year." Harry said.
"How is the rest of the school taking it?" Artemis chimed in questioningly. "With you being Champion?"
"The Slytherins have thrown their support behind me. They seem to be under the impression that I managed to hoodwink Dumbledore's age line. I will get no support from Gryffindor. That I already know due to the simple fact that I've out bested them so often in Quidditch. Hufflepuff is also out. I'm willing to bet they think I'm trying to steal their chance for recognition. Ravenclaw… I'm not sure about Ravenclaw." Harry said.
Artemis said nothing as she looks at Harry.
"You keep your head down. The killer will most likely appear during the tasks to eliminate you. To sabotage your chances of surviving. We'll be attending the tasks to ensure no one takes any action against you. Also, we'll be speaking to Madam Bones about dispatching some Aurors for the tasks as well to provide additional security." Olivia Wynter instructed softly.
"I do have a thought on who is behind this," Harry said slowly. Everyone turns to look at him carefully. Harry launch into his dream he had days before the Quidditch World Cup. The murder of an elderly muggle by Voldemort. Wormtail and a young man who was with Voldemort. His Vassals were silent through Harry's entire explanation.
"I don't see how it would be possible. Even if the Dark Lord managed to smuggle himself back in the country, he could not have entered Hogwarts without Dumbledore's knowledge." Olivia Wynter said softly.
"But it does shed some light on this mystery. If the Dark Lord is indeed plotting Harry's murder, then this tournament would be a perfect camouflage. No one will be suspicious if Harry dies in this tournament. Its reputation for killing its' champions would not draw any special attention." Samuel Wynter said.
"Your teachers may not be able to help you with the tournament, but we can. You can call upon us if you have trouble." Sirius said.
Harry said nothing. He knew he did have enemies. He never realized just how much protection he received until now.
Harry sighs, knowing he couldn't dwell on the past. To solve this mystery, he would have to complete the three tasks.
The next few days at Hogwarts had to be Harry's worst since his second year when the large portion of the school believed he was behind the attacks on his fellow students. It seemed like before, Lily was leading a strong voice in his defense. To Harry's surprise, Neville had believed him when Harry told Neville he didn't enter.
Hufflepuff, as Harry expected, didn't support him and believed he was trying to steal Hufflepuff's glory. Many Hufflepuffs, whom Harry has been on friendly terms in the past, turned their backs on him and instead readily supported Cedric Diggory. As predicted, the Gryffindor house was throwing their support behind Cedric Diggory.
It was actually kind of hard to see who was the better Champion. Cedric or Krum. Harry swore he saw a group of girls, who were trying to get Krum's autograph, begging Cedric to sign their handbags. Too many girls at Hogwarts, they didn't seem to care who was champion. They seemed to flock to Cedric and Krum in packs. Harry scuffs at the girls. They didn't seem to have much of a brain and seem to rely on their looks to get things they wanted. That hardly mattered to Harry. Harry spent most of his time with Daphne and Blaise. Both who not only supported Harry but believed him when he told them he didn't enter.
"It makes sense. You flat out told us you had no interest in competing in the tournament. It is clear someone wants you in this tournament. If you need help, just let me know, and I'll do what I can." Daphne had told him after he got her alone and told her the truth.
For which, Harry was grateful. He didn't want to go through the school, avoiding most people in supporting him or cursing him. If it was anything like the second year, then he knew with time, the school would come around.
Malfoy knew better than to complain and throw a tantrum about Harry being Slytherin Champion. As it was with the House Rules, he had to throw his support behind Harry. As Slytherin was supposed to support each other in house unity. Though Harry was able to tell that Draco was upset over the fact that Harry manages to become Champion, and he didn't.
Ron, of course, was vocally upset with Harry being Hogwarts Champion. He made that point clear when he complained loudly that Harry cheated to get in the tournament. Many in Gryffindor nodded their heads in agreement, claiming it was unfair to them. Lily cursed Ron when she discovered that Ron was trying to convince some Gryffindor to attack Harry to take him out of the tournament.
If there was anyone he could trust, it was Lily. It was strange, as he realized he could trust Lily greater than any of his friends. The two shared a powerful bond. Harry would have to look into magical bonds more carefully. He wasn't sure if they were safe. Or what effects they would have on each other.
The days past together, and classes reassumed. Today Harry was in his potions class, which he was thankful for, as Ron Weasley couldn't harp on what an evil dark sorcerer he was. Weasley, as usual, was doing a terrible job in potions as he couldn't mix it upright. Harry shakes his head as he realized Weasley was incapable of following simple instructions. Made him wonder if Weasley was dropped a few times as a child, or considering his stomach and prankster brothers, if all the potions and prank items his brothers had tested on him had made lose what brains he might have had. Food for thought, indeed.
Harry was just stirring his potions when the classroom door opens, and Colin Creevey, a third-year Gryffindor student, walks in.
"What is it?" Snape hissed out. He did not like having his class disturbed. This was a well-known fact to all students in Hogwarts. Several Slytherins lookups with smirks on their faces at the foolish Gryffindor who had decided to test their Head of House patience.
"Please, sir, I'm supposed to collect Harry Potter for the Weighing of the Wands. I was told to bring him to…"
"Potter still has another hour of Potions to complete before he's allowed to go anywhere. Now get out." Snape hissed. Creevey's lip trembled as he stood before Snape.
"Please, sir, he's got to go. All the champions…"
"Oh, very well. Potter goes to your Champion selection," said Snape without looking at Harry as Harry puts his stuff in his bag. Harry was barely out the door when Snape spoke again. "That's also fifty points from Gryffindor you've lost."
The Gryffindors moan realizing that Potter's Champion selection has cost Gryffindor more house points.
"But sir, that's unfair. Potter isn't in Gryffindor!" Ron shouted.
Harry had a smirk on his face as he walks out of the room as Snape gave Ron detention for his cheek as well as losing another fifty points. The irony was a real bitch to live with. Ron didn't seem to understand that at all.
"So…Champion, huh!? That's awesome, Harry!" Creevey said in an obviously excited tone.
Harry ignores Creevey, the stupid Gryffindor was brainless in every way. Made Harry wonder a bit too much if Creevey was dropped a few times as a child. He was sure his cousin Dudley has been dropped a dozen times.
They reached a room, and Harry walks inside. Creevey attempted to come in as well, but Harry slams the door in his face. The other three Champions were already inside. Bagman was there, along with a woman and a photographer. Victor Krum looked particularly dour as he stood off to the side by a nearby window. Almost as if wishing, he was elsewhere. Fleur Delacour seemed to look much more agreeable if the little hair flips back and smiles she was sending the cameraman was anything to go by. Of course, he seemed to have a hard time keeping his eyes off of her. Cedric was sitting down with his wand out, looking a bit down and nervous.
"Ah, here he is! The Fourth Champion." Bagman said, beaming. "Come in, Harry. Nothing to worry about. The Weighing Ceremony is about to begin, a long tradition in the Triwizard Tournament." Bagman said in a cheerful tone. "The expert is upstairs with Dumbledore. Then there is going to be a little photo shoot. And this is Rita Skeeter, who will be doing interviews with each Champion," Bagman added, introducing the blonde woman.
Harry narrows his eyes at the woman. He remembers hearing his Vassals speak about Ms. Skeeter. None of them said anything good about Rita Skeeter.
"I was wondering if I could have a moment with the young Lord Potter," Rita said, looking at Harry. "You know, the youngest champion in history. You know, to add a bit of… color."
"Certainly!" Bagman said in a happy tone of voice. "That is if you don't object, Harry?"
"I'd rather not," Harry said. Rita lost the color in her face. She clearly was unhappy but didn't comment on it. Or at least, she couldn't as the door opens as Dumbledore, Madam Olympe Maxime, Igor Karkaroff, and Ollivander walk in behind.
"Good day, Champions," Dumbledore said in a cheerful tone. He waves his wand, and four chairs appeared in the center of the room. One was green, one red, one light blue, one yellow. "Please be seated."
Harry walked up to the green-colored chair and sat down. It seemed each champion sat down in their correct color. Dumbledore walks forward and sits behind a table with the Maxime and Karkaroff joining him on either side.
"May I introduce Briton's greatest wandmaker, Mr. Ollivander," Dumbledore said. Mr. Ollivander steps forward, nodding his head towards the Champions, "Now the weighing of the wand is to check that your wands are in perfect working condition. This is to make sure that nothing has been broken or needs to be fixed. I trust all of you have been taking good care of your wands and don't need replacements. However, to be safe, Mr. Ollivander will be checking your wands." Dumbledore said with a smile.
"Mademoiselle Delacour, may I have the honor of examining your wand first?" Ollivander said as Fleur stands up gracefully. She walks to the middle of the room and hands over her wand. Ollivander begins to twirl the wand in his hand as he studies it carefully. "Hmm… nine and a half inches… inflexible… with… rosewood… and containing… dear me…"
"An 'air from ze 'ead of a Veela," said Fleur in her best attempt to speak English. Harry didn't know why she didn't use a Translation Speaking Spell. It would make things easier to understand.
"Yes," Ollivander said softly. "I've never used Veela hair myself, hmm, this wand was made by Sonea, wasn't it?"
"Yes," Fleur said.
"Good wandmaker, Sonea. Very popular in France. I have never used Veela hair. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands… If it works for you… Orchideous!" Ollivander said as a bunch of flowers burst from the wand. Ollivander hands Fleur her wand back as well as the flowers. "Mister Krum," Ollivander said as Krum stood up.
Ollivander took hold of Krum's wand and stares at it as he twirls it between his fingers. "Hmm, very interesting wand. Hornbeam and Dragon Heartstring." Ollivander said as Krum nods his head. "Rather thicker than usual, quite rigid, yes… ten and a quarter inches… Avis!" like a gunshot, the wand exploded before several small birds shot out of the wand.
"Excellent, Mister Diggory," Ollivander said as Cedric stood up.
"Ah, yes, this is one of mine, isn't it?" Ollivander said as Cedric nods his head. "Yes, I remember it well, twelve and a half inches with a unicorn hair. Pleasantly springy. It's in fine condition… you treat it regularly?"
"Polished it last night," Cedric said.
"Yes, well done… which leaves…" Ollivander said as he hands back, Cedric his wand. "Mr. Potter."
Harry said nothing as he stood up and handed his wand over to Ollivander.
"Awe, yes, yes… how well I remember." Ollivander said as he looks at the wand. Ollivander said nothing more as he scrutinizes Harry's wand. He twirled it in his fingers, looking at it very carefully. After several minutes, Ollivander shoots wine out of Harry's wand before announcing it was still in working condition.
"That's all. You can return to your lessons unless you want to go to dinner, as lessons are about to end…"
"Photos, Dumbledore! Photos!" Bagman said in a cheerful tone.
The photoshoot was a long process. As the cameraman had trouble with Madame Maxime, as she tended to overshadow everyone else due to her size. In the end, they managed, mostly by having her sit down as everyone else stood up.
Harry knew he would face tough challenges ahead. He knew this as he headed towards dinner. He just prayed the year didn't get any more horrible complications for once. Yet, his own history proved that interesting things always cropped up to consistently ruin his year. And he still had another 7 months to go.
