Wow. I want to thank everyone for the well wishes. I pretty sick for a while. As my Beta put out. I had some issues with my CHF- drove my doctor nuts trying to figure out what was up. Then I compounded it by getting pneumonia. So I'm recuperating at home and working on this update when my motherboard went on strike. Money is tight since I'm not allowed to work - hence the delay.
But I'm back !
So on to the story- I have this chapter, an omake ending (it's not the ending for this story- it would leave too many plot holes) and maybe one more chapter until I start the second and most likely last part of this tale. (I do have some other ideas for these triads but they would most likely be very short stories.)
As always- please comment.
Because of the long delay in getting this to you- this was NOT beta'd. So any errors are my own.
Please enjoy!
bob
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Ronnie had just returned after several days in the woods. Most of the time he traveled alone. He was still frightened occasionally, but he had learned a lot in the use of the Mare's bow and various knives secreted on a young mare's body. Most of the young "ladies" had at least one small knife hidden in her braids. Ronnie had adopted this for himself. He had made the journey to the tree several times now. And when he fell asleep under the protective branches of the tree. It showed him three other trees relatively close. It necessitated several additional days worth of travel to get around to each one. He cursed loudly and vociferously that "someone" didn't have the foresight to have these trees planted much nearer to each other. He wouldn't think of it for several years yet to "ask" the trees for a seedling.
He wasn't even sure what the difference was from one tree to the next. At this point, he only could feel that this wood was special and wasn't meant for his carvings. Invariably the trees had gifted him with not only varying lengths of limbs which was special but also larger species that were destined to be used for carving. He had to make several trips, he had tried to first shrink all the wood, and then levi-O-sar it, but it had been too long and he was unpracticed especially with an unmatched wand given to him by the elf that winters day a different lifetime ago.
The constant trips to the woods and the hard work transporting the wood to his corner of Aria's closet had toned lazy muscles. He was still the same Rom mentally though, he had no idea about physiology though and while he was more male than female his female attributes were in ascendancy. From the rear, he looked like any other human female and from a distance, the front as well, but his face was still too masculine. He had spent many an hour thinking of his time with the centaurs.
For the most part, they treated him just as Mangorian said they would, as an unmarried mare. Now that he realized what he would have to do to stay with them, he quailed. Soon, if the rumors were to be believed, Aria would be leaving and joining another herd. This was done to strengthen ties among the herds and to strengthen bloodlines. The daughter of Magorian was a prize. There was no guarantee that the new herd would accept him, neither did he really want to be the mate of a centaur. After it was clear, he had spied the young males. He had lost a lot of sleep those next few nights and was blushing when he was serving that same young stud a day or two later. No. Ronnie would not follow his beloved Aria. He would find his next "step". He now wished that he had paid more attention the last time his Hermy and Looney were there. He started to correct himself again, but realized, the nicknames he had given them were just an aide for him. He knew their names, and he had to remind himself not to use those nicknames when speaking aloud.
He was unsurprised therefore when there were some strange stallions meeting with Magorian and the other elders. Standing behind him, in her best bustier stood Aria. She looked as radiant as the sun. Seeing him she smiled, but because of the ceremony could spare no other time for her Ronnie. At least for the moment.
Ron was surprised that the centaurs had their own way of traveling. It had taken him some time to realize that all of the other races helped each other. Sometimes there was a fee or barter system, but that system had been worked out long ago. For a short trip across water that couldn't be forded, house elves would come to their aid. House-elves would help almost everyone the goblins, of course, were the stingiest, they always extracted some sort of fee, depending on the creature whether it was gold or some other commodity that they needed. Of course, the humans were oblivious to this.
"...Now that that's done. Prince Morn may I present my daughter, the unsullied princess. Princess Aria."
"He is handsome," Ron mused. "And it looks as if he will satisfy Aria." He stood off and silently mused. Not realizing his constant exposure to the female of the species over many months, with magic's urgings had given him a different perspective. "Just another disappointment," he finished with a finality that locked his emotions and the rest of his thoughts away.
It wasn't until the feast, that he had a chance to speak to her. And when he did, even that was interrupted. "Magorian. We've caught another human on our lands."
Magorian wanted to present the best image in front of their guests. They were from an important herd on the mainland. "And you brought him to me why?"
The guard didn't flinch at the harsh tone. Everyone had come to expect it. "He claims kinship with the Fae."
He almost sighed. "Where is he?" Magorian looked to see if the human was hidden by the mass of a centaur.
"He draws near. But he moves slowly. He nears 150 years of age."
"Even for a wizard, that is old." Just then the old man came walking into the village. He walked aided by a staff. But he didn't look infirm. He moved with dignity his head held high and his eyes clear.
Magorian and Roon both recognized him at the same time. "Olivander?"
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It had been easy to arrange a room for the two Longbottoms. Saul's name opened a lot of doors and in no time he had what he wanted and extra large room for the two patients. One of which had very limited mobility and the other that was completely unresponsive.
Saul arranged for the two glamoured goblins, the two patients and even the matron and the three youngsters to all transport at the same time. Having been fully briefed, he had the mage's, (his term for all of the magicals), brought to a large storage closet that was repurposed as an entry point. He strictly forbade any magic near the patients without his permission. The equipment just in the room would total more than tens of thousands of pounds.
Being the early morning, when the facility was short staffed, it was easy to tell everyone had been busy elsewhere when everyone came in. After the loved ones said their goodbyes; the good doctor was eager to begin his tests and sometimes the sight of needles and the pain tests were off-putting for the families.
The glamoured goblins grinned as the soft humans first bled that patients, taking tube upon tube of the precious fluid and then the causing pain for each of the helpless patients. "Maybe these humans weren't so soft after all," they thought. They were very impressed by the other scans ordered by the human healer.
"Aha!" The doctor exclaimed in exultation. The goblins had watched the old human give orders like a battlefield commander. He had the women and younger men scurrying around on a multitude of tasks. The two goblins seldom spoke and when they did it was in hushed tones. Currently, the male patient had numerous wires running to his head while a device registered several incomprehensible scribblings.
"Yes!" he said one hand slapping the readout of the human's brain scribblings. "The same as Alice's. Both of them have brain waves consistent with each other, despite the fact that he is in a deep unresponsive state and she has motor functions. And," he continued still excited. "They are both inconsistent with deep coma patients."
Steelhook drew closer. "Do you mean to tell me that you humans can tell what brain functions are working and not from that scribbling?"
Saul wasn't above one-upmanship. "We can do more that that, my surly compatriot. I can show you in color the parts of the brain that are affected."
This went beyond everything Steelhook had heard about human medicine. It was with great reluctance that he accepted this assignment. Since Griphook's disastrous lack of honor, the whole clan had been tainted. And Bloodbringer was clear the only other way to satisfy the debt of honor was to wash it away with blood. "If you can tell me which brain functions are impaired then we may be able to determine the cause and cure."
Saul clapped him on the shoulder and Griphook nearly pulled his favorite knife but Steelgrip's upraised hand forestalled him. DR. Saul added, "We must reign in our emotions. This war isn't half done yet. We've still several uphill battles to go."
Suddenly the two goblins looked on the human doctor with new eyes.
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It was early in the morning. Mooney and he had been drinking all night. "Check that," he corrected himself. "I've been drinking all night. Mooney had been either nursing his drinks, or when pushed, would surreptitiously dump it. "I should be drunk as a lord," he laughed out loud at the turn of phrase he had been thinking. "But despite my best efforts, I am as sober as a puritan."
They had gotten "the word" from the third muggle clinic. Two others, as well as the "experts" at St. Mungos, had confirmed his worst fears. The constant exposure to dementors had negated any possible children.
"It's a good thing you already have an heir and the heir already has Black Blood," Mooney tried to console. It had been the same thing he had said all night long. Really one of the few things he could say. And he had mentioned them all, to include,"
"It's a good thing its not going anywhere near the Malfoys." or
"It's a good thing you got out of Azkaban at all. At least you get to know Harry and his wives."
They had argued most of the night about Draco Black, Mooney really hated Lucius, so passed his animus on to his son. Sirius chuckled at the memory. The thought of him taking the side of a Malfoy was the stuff of fantasy novels. But he had to hand it to both Cissy and Draco they didn't blanch when the read the restrictive Black family oath. She had hustled him out of school this past weekend. They didn't want to give Lucius any potential hold over the boy.
Mooney interrupted his reverie, "Are you sure you don't want to wait before making him the Black?"
Siri stared at the tumbler full of whiskey. Tossing it down his throat it could have been tea for all of the feelings he had right now. "I'm going to bed. His plate is pretty full right now. It can wait until after term." He didn't wait, he just went up the stairs to the master suite. He didn't hear Mooney mumble, "If he's alive after the tournament." He set his untouched drink down and he followed up the same set of stairs. His bed called for him as well. Maybe blessed sleep would end the constant turmoil he felt over Dumbledore versus Potter. He doubted it, but one could always hope.
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"'Mione?" She seldom acted as if she didn't know what was going to happen tomorrow. She would often act the child. She enjoyed the persona of being "childlike". It helped Hermione and Harry with their burdens and outlook. And she really, really enjoyed pudding. But she couldn't stop thinking. Harry was still being strong, she could feel his fear. And her other love's. His was tightly clamped down, held in place by that indomitable will of his. Hermione's was like hers, controlled mostly but suddenly someone would say or do something and it would blaze like a solar flare lighting the emotional pathways.
She called her again, "'Mione? Can we talk?"
The brown-haired witch had been staring at the map that decorated their apartment. It was a gift from all of them. Even the castle had, according to Neville, donated. At first, it had been a tool, an item that would help Harry plan his actions, but recently it had become a doomsday clock, an ax attached to a pendulum growing closer with every passing minute.
The other voice she longed to hear called. She loved her parent's, but they had been supplanted by that green-eyed lord and this Fae touched slip of a girl. Turning she saw tears in the blonde's eyes. She put her fear away, her love needed her. Grabbing her in a tight hug she asked, "You're as scared as I am aren't you?"
Luna nodded. "I don't want to wait 'Mione. I can't see anything, this is too personal. I'm sure we're approaching a nexus and I don't want to live without him."
She had been afraid to voice it. Everyone tiptoed around it. The pressure could be felt by everyone in the apartment. They waited for the results of the interrogation of faux Moody, but couldn't depend on it arriving in time. It was the not knowing that was killing everyone.
"I don't want to wait either. But Harry is going to be noble about this and try to talk us out of it."
Luna snorted, a cheering thought for the first time today. "How many teenage boys would turndown the chance of getting laid twice!"
Hermione smiled, "Besides our Harry? I can only think of one. Come on, let's go see Poppy. Then we'll take a certain young man up to the seventh floor and have our way with him!"
He argued with them for almost fifteen minutes before he understood they weren't going to back down. Part of his reluctance was based on his "taking advantage" of them, another fear that if he were to die, then they would follow. Patient understanding, calm reassurance and one of the other either strip teasing or massaging someone's body parts finally did him in.
There was no body consciousness with any of them. They had spent plenty of time doing everything else. This was just the next step in their path. They also knew that there was further growing needed. Several hours later in their third "round robin," they started to hear the thoughts of the other.
"Should have done this months ago."
Simultaneously, "'Mione? Hermione?"
"You heard that?"
"Obviously."
"Don't be snide Potter."
The three teenagers all thought about the same time, "I wonder how it would feel...?" Which elicited another round of exploration.
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"Resistance is futile." The prisoner didn't see the other guards snort. "You will tell us everything we need to know."
"Filthy muggle. You shall fall to my master. He'll make his throne out of your bones." Crouch was spitting as he said this. Except for Bellatrix, he was the most vicious and insane of Voldemort's inner circle.
"I demand to see my representative. You muggles can't keep me here. I demand wizard's justice!"
The guard flipped a folder opened and pretended to read. "It says here you were declared dead." He closed the folder and smiled at the prisoner. Just like the other one. Since you're dead, you don't get any rights."
Crouch hesitated just for a second. That did intimidate him, but he wasn't going to let any muggle know that. He tried to apparate for the hundredth time, and couldn't imagine why it didn't work. "Filthy muggles."
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The hotel business was boring. After the initial rush, the demand for protection for families had dropped considerably. Even families whose name didn't sound anything similar to Longbottom or Potter had called in looking for protection. Most of theses calls were forwarded to the police. Midge Anderson, Called "midget" by her friend because of her diminutive size had enjoyed the military. Finishing up her thirty years functioning as the Colonel's aide de camp. She was an expert in firearms and was nationally ranked in judo. She had been an alternate to the Olympic team in the 80's. She enjoyed the work that MI5 brought, mostly. Stakeouts were never one of her favorites.
She had been briefed on the world of magic, she had even seen the wizards performing spells. But it wasn't until she met her first house elf that she believed. Up until then, she had thought like many others it was some trick, sleight of hand, or even hallucination. But the dark rich coffee it had brought her was very real. So too was the chocolate bar it had given her. Best chocolate she had ever had, and she was a dyed in the wool chocoholic.
Her ears caught the sound of apparition. The colonel had his wizards apparate both inside and outside for everyone so they could hear the distinctive sound it made. Her hand was already moving to the emergency button they had installed to warn anyone that hadn't heard it. It was confirmed when a house elf appeared next to her before disappearing. It took her less than a second to take the safety off and ready her weapon.
Helmudt Schmidt was a neer do well half blood from Stuttgart. He had matriculated at Durmstang. He never graduated officially. He just never showed up for more education after getting the minimum number of OWLS proscribed by the ICW. He only went home to take what money he could from his parents, only to disappear. He would have stayed, but he was terrified of his mother hexing him. After that first time theft, his mother put up warning wards and he wasn't strong enough or studied enough to overcome them. Instead, he did as many of the others in his situation did. Living a life of moving from an empty flat to flat. None of them stayed in one place to long. If the German Aurors ever found the thugs they would take their wands, bind their magic and throw them into prison for a few years. The dark wizards of Bavaria were tough, their Aurors, therefore, tougher still.
Helmudt had fallen in love with muggle electronics. He had been able to spend almost a month at an apartment of a traveling businessman. He had through trial and error figured out how to run the DVD player. He fell in love with the name of a character from one of the discs he had found and adopted his name. It was "fett" (cool).
Muerte desired to make a name for himself. He had learned one thing from hanging around that businessman's apartment. People liked to be led. Seeing the reports in the paper and on the TV he knew the filthy muggles thought they were safe. With his limited English, it almost sounded like they were daring the "terrorists" to try to attack them. He wanted to show his new master just how valuable he could be. Muerte was a leader of men and Lord Voldemort needed strong leaders. If he killed enough he would be certain to be marked and if it went as well as he dreamed he would be promoted to the inner circle, maybe one of his lieutenants. It was these dreams that prompted his to kick, pull, cajole, and order fifteen other new recruits to get ready. One of the others, the only Brit in the group knew where the hotel was and was powerful enough to make a portkey.
The fifteen faces before him, none were clear-eyed. None seemed eager, so Muerte gave an impromptu lecture on the stupidity of the muggles; on the rightness of their cause. "After all," he reasoned. "It was fate that put the only Englishman in their group. And the Englander knew where the hotel was!" "We will kill them all and bathe in their blood and come back and be welcomed by our Lord and receive the praise of our brothers!"
They still seemed hesitant, until one asked, "Will their be women there?"
Hesitating..., "Ja! Ja! Vomen! We use the women and take their gold too!"
Suddenly, this seemed to be a good deal. There are nothing but muggles there after all!"
They only used one portkey. The long piece of rope deposited the would-be terrorists directly into the lobby of Sirius' hotel. Suddenly Midget's night wasn't a complete waste of time after all. Despite the fact that it had only been fifteen seconds since she hit the alarm, there were already three other agents waiting. Their instructions were clear, one order to surrender, then open fire.
Midget and her friends couldn't see them, but there were five other elves already in the room as well. There orders came directly from Lord Nevy, "Let the humans do the fighting. If any of the colonel's men are hurt take them to safety. Only attack the humans to save your own lives."
This was a total departure from what many of the elves were told. Previously, it meant their lives if they hurt a witch or a wizard. Dobby had to go through the rules several times with them and get both Harry and Neville to confirm it. It wasn't so much an issue with the Potter or Longbottom elves. but all of the others had a lifetimes worth of programming to overcome.
The sudden displacement of air had every weapon not previously not made "ready," quickly loaded.
"Surrender!" She was going to say more, but one of the targets shot a green light at her that tore a chunk form the reception desk she used as cover.
Orders were orders. The smell of cordite and the distinctive sound of gunfire in an enclosed space prevented communication for the next 30 seconds as shooting fish in a barrel was the order of the day.
Muerte had ducked behind two others want to be DE's and after ten seconds tried to apparate away. He was good at that part. When Mutter became angry, apparating became second nature. It failed him this time as he stopped trying to send spells at the disgusting muggles. Instead, he spied the front door a few feet from him and with one or two others tried to make it there and to freedom.
Rippy kept herself hidden and safe as she watched the peoples kill the nasty nasty wizards. She rubbed her tummy and smiled. Dobby Potter had come by earlier to make sure that she was fine. He once more had told her that their "little elfsie" was going to be a Potter and Longbottom elf. And that meant "no nasty means masters or mistresses." Instead, Lord Potter and Lord Nevy had told all of their elves that they were family.
So caught up in the memory was she that she almost missed the nasty mans trying to open the door. With a snap of her fingers she locked the doors so even wizards couldn't leave, and then for good measure made the glass unbreakable.
In just under three minutes, thirteen potential death eaters were dead and three were captured. They quickly found themselves in magic inhibiting cuffs thanks to Madam Bones and in almost no time at all the colonel, SGTMAJ and four others were there to supervise. Muerte repeatedly asked for his "Mutter" but no one seemed to understand him.
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The DAY dawned too early. The three had fallen asleep in the Room of Requirement. Everyone had left them alone. The trio had skipped the afternoon classes and they were going to skip the classes today as well. The room had started with Harry's choice of Potter's Retreat, the master bedroom obviously, but at some point had become Hermione's and then Luna's bedroom. Before they left it was an amalgamation of all three rooms and they silently decided that the finished product was their favorite.
(I) "This is weird," Harry thought.
"What's that?"
"I have a craving for pudding."
"Damn it Luna love!" Hermione's thought was not angry though.
"What's wrong?"
"I want pudding too! And they don't serve pudding for breakfast."
"They will today," Harry and Luna thought together.
"This is going to take some getting used to." One thought.
The thoughts were coming quicker as they grew more comfortable in each other's minds. They had spent a large part of the last evening totally immersed in one another. Each felt the love of the other. They had known it anyways but now it literally was a joined mind.
They were almost to the dining hall when Harry spoke out loud. "Tonight though I don't want either of you anywhere near my mind."
"Harry. We're always going to be a part of each other."
Luna spoke aloud while the other thought, "We don't want to put up walls Harry. And life is meaningless without each other."
He used one of his irrepressible grins. "I guess I'll just have to come back to you then. Won't I?"
They sat down in their normal spots while Neville and the girls ate and watched them. As one, the three whispered to the air, "Dobby. Pudding please."
Daphne and Tracey giggled, while Nev smiled kindly.
In a singsong voice, Tracey said, "Someone completed their bond."
They didn't answer but each looked at the other and then smiled. The girls would have told the other pair later anyway. Harry thought that he would stop "listening" when the girls shared. Hermione smiled and squeezed his hand in appreciation.
"And now they're talking about us."
It was Neville and the girls turn to look at each other and smile. Luna had an inkling and shared it with her bond mates.
"Something you wanted to share with the group brother?" Harry was smiling, for a few minutes, he could forget about the tournament.
It was at the noon meal when guests started to arrive. Extra places had been set. The head table was even longer and Dumbledore had a spot reserved on his right.
First to arrive was Lord Diggory. A minor noble Lord, his family was strictly pureblood. Ginny and the twins long ago had shared that Cedric got his opinions from his parents. Introduced to the crowd, he tried to take the seat next to Dumbles but was politely ushered to the side. The polite applause was loudest from the Puffs. But they were quickly tiring of their "Champion." Most would be glad when it was over, the term was almost done and Cedric graduates in a matter of two weeks.
Fleur's parents followed shortly after. Alaric the "Topcop" at least for the magical folks along his wife Apolline and the lovely Gabriel received polite applause from the crowd, but much more unreserved applause from the six and a few select others that had come to know the beautiful French champion. They too were ushered to the side. Viktor's parents followed. Again the six and et al were glad to provide a warm welcome with the Durmstang contingent also loud. Harry noticed with some surprise that Karkarov did not applaud, in fact, he looked dyspeptic at their arrival.
The final seats were taken up by the minister, his Assistant who was introduced as Deloris Umbridge, and her assistant Mrs. Clearwater. Applause was mixed with giggling as Percy's face reddened as all of the other Weasley' were wont to do. The minister accepted the seat at Dumbledore's right hand with Deloris and Percy regulated to the end of the long table.
The lunch continued with the normal conversation as a fanfare sounded at the doors. A house elf dressed in formal livery. "Presenting His lordship Sirius Black of The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black."
Sirius' grin was large. He was going to enjoy this, and he didn't care if the old wanker liked it or not. Mooney was starting to come around to their point of view, questioning more and more of Dumbles actions. Forgetting to send an invitation to Sirius was a small thing really, but just another straw on the proverbial camel's back.
"Someone seemed to forget my invitation headmaster."
As one the crowd turned to the head. If you looked quick enough, you could see a scowl there before it was hidden behind his normal grandfatherly façade.
"It seems my invitation was lost. Did one of your owls get waylaid perhaps?" Before Dumbles could answer he continued. He ensured that story wouldn't wash by continuing, "Perhaps not. I can see all of the seats at the head table had already been apportioned. That's fine. I brought guests and we'd much rather eat with my godson."
Nodding to the elf who had stood by and waited patiently for the verbose lord. "My lords and ladies, may I present his lordship, Lord Xenopolis Lovegood of the noble house of Lovegood father to Lady Luna Lovegood, the prospective Lady Black." More than one "boo" was heard especially from the Slytherins. He continued Major Daniel and Dr. Emma Granger. Parents to Hermione Granger, the Prospective Lady Potter."
More "boos" but there was some broken applause here and there. After the two Grangers came in; Emma appeared slightly embarrassed but stood to the side with Siri a smile on her face anyway.
From the head table, a voice was heard, "Muggles? I thought they were forbidden here at Hogwarts headmaster."
Albus didn't look happy with the situation but he didn't get the chance to respond as the costumed house elf spoke one last time. "Monsieur Remus Lupin."
The same voice overrode the noise, "A Werewolf? Headmaster, you let a dangerous creature in as well? What kind of school are you running here?" Fudge leaned forward and put a baleful eye on her. She quieted down but looked unrepentant.
Siri waved his hand at Dumbles forestalling any answer. "This works out better. There seems to be some open seats near my godson and friends. What a lucky coincidence, huh?" More than one snort was heard. But he continued, "Since the head table is full, I invite all of the champions to sit here with us. I would like to get to know all of you."
It didn't take but a second for Viktor and Fleur to move towards the table followed a moment later by Gabrielle after a quick word to her mother. After a quick hug to Harry, Neville and surprisingly Viktor, Gabby sat and began a rapid fire conversation in French with her sister. Harry found when he concentrated on it he could understand more than before thanks to the memories and experiences of his bond mates. Cedric looked on longingly for a moment, but he was smart enough to realize he had made his decision, those bridges had been burned.
"Lord Black. Suddenly there is a seat here at the head table." His eyes were twinkling merrily. He didn't think he would get Black up there, but it was worth a try.
"No thanks, headmaster. I've spent plenty of time at this very table. I'm sure if I looked I could still find some traces of my life before right here."
Mooney's eyes got big as he realized what Sirius was referring to. "You don't think they're still here do you?"
"Why not. Even elves don't clean under the tables unless they have to. Besides these were carved into them."
"Professor Lupin. What are you talking about?" Tracey would always be inquisitive.
The two Marauders snorted into their cups.
"Just WHAT are you two talking about?"
Siri began to talk conspiratorially, just loud enough for everyone in their group to hear. "When we were in our seventh year we started a prank that we never finished. McGonagall got very suspicious and watched us like a hawk for our last six weeks. We had snuck in here and were carving runes on the undersides of the tables. From there we ..."
"Hold it Padfoot. Harry's always talking how they're the newest Marauders. Let them find the runes and figure it out."
"Good idea. Let's see if you can figure out whose carvings are whose. We each took a table."
"Wormtail knew runes?"
"Wormtail could barely spell his name, either one of them. No, it was the newest member of our group Beau-Lis"
Fleur translated in case anyone's French wasn't up to par. "Beautiful Lily?"
"Lily? My mum was a Marauder?"
Time seemed to rewind for the older men as they remembered the halcyon days of their last year. But that idyllic period wouldn't last two years before it ended in blood and pain. "Your mum," he whispered just loud enough. "Was the best of us. Anything we did she matched or did better." He turned to Harry's girls. "I see so much of her in both of you. Magic is demanding much of you Harry, but she is giving so much back as well."
"Enough of this maudlin tripe," he said louder; once more making himself loud and boisterous. As several wiped misty eyes surreptitiously. "Tell me what your plan is. Are we in for a show?"
Just then a plate of leaves appeared in front of Neville. "Yep," he said after a moment. "Still the protection from fire and heat. It's too late for Professor Sprout to do anything to it now.."
"Good, thanks Nev and our little friends. I think you'll enjoy the show." He wore his I'm pulling a prank smile and looked at the headmaster.
Albus was good enough to shiver just then, he wondered who meant him ill.
It had been a wonderful afternoon. Harry couldn't justify Neville, Trace, and Daph being there, but he could his girls. When the headmaster suggested it, Lord Potter threw his weight around. Hermione and Luna loved being with Emma-mum and their dads. All of the adults received a tour of the building and grounds by Minerva. Her classes had been canceled for the afternoon. Luna hadn't planned on going in anyway. Her father had seemed more alive than ever and had almost no flights of fancy. Apparently, the Grangers had "bullied" him into taking the guest bedroom and he spent four or five nights a week there. The social interaction with caring adults was just what the healer would have ordered. But the health care system in the magical world wasn't nearly that developed.
The triad noticed Fleur and Viktor walking arm in arm. None could tell how developed their relationship was if any, but the parents of both teens were over the moon about their friendship. Even Gabby had taken a shine to him. Alternating running between him and Fleur and Harry and the girls.
Cedric was a bit quieter in his boorish attitude, at least a little bit. Hermione had seen his mother pinch him earlier in the tour. He kept mostly quiet after that for which everyone else thanked the deity of their choice.
The only other possible fly in the ointment was the inclusion of Percy in the mix. He was introduced as Mrs. Clearwater, which still evoked smiles from everyone. Tonks still had bragging rights over the prank, it promised to go down in history as one of the best all time. Some of the adults were in the know, McGonagall only smiled her slight upturn of the corners of her mouth, which if it was everyone else would count as ROTFL. Umbridge had insisted that he accompany everyone to "ensure no creature was cheating," but he was oblivious of the upturn in hostility following the faux pas. Naturally, Sirius had to distract everyone with a story that involved the release of a gross of magically enhanced Sea Monkeys" into the Black lake. Apparently, it was like catnip of giant squids. Harry immediately added it to his "list."
Both girls stopped in midstep which had the group walking away without them. "Harry! I can see the list!"
Realizing it was a small prank he was playing he answered, "See the first item? That's always been in the top two or three."
Both girls blushed as they realized that Number one had finally and forever been dealt with.
SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE
"Welcome to Hogwarts for the third task!"
The announcer hadn't gotten any better. Harry silently complained in his head that Lee Jordan was by far a better announcer, and he was surprised to hear agreements coming from his loves. He had given himself the equivalent of a mental face palm forgetting that there were others in his head with him. He turned to look at the stands, he didn't need to search, he knew exactly where they were. He was greeted with a cheer when he looked, interrupting the ministry toady. All of his guests had gotten raucous and had even started "the wave". Mrs. Clearwater's face turned almost as ugly as her boss' Deloris at the interruption. The three at that moment had decided to "keep the heat" on Prissy. They had been leaning towards ameliorating the situation, feeling somewhat guilty about it, but in the speed of thought the triad quickly came to a unanimous agreement, he was much too much a dick, (the Triad thought that Hermione was the one to label him thus, but they weren't sure).
..." and no muggle devices of any kind are to be used. Also in response to numerous complaints, the ministry is happy to present to you live image of you favorite champion. Brought to you by the ministry, an innovative product of BLACPIN RANGER CORP sponsored by Matron Longbottom. If you look above the hedge just in front of the stands you'll a large mirror. It will be divided into five parts. The whole right side of the large mirror will show an overview of the action inside the hedges while the left side of the mirror will be divided into four equal parts following your favorite champion."
The mirror flashed to the appropriate places, even showing a picture of Harry receiving said instruction. Noticing it, he waved and received several boos from the mostly antagonistic audience. Not putting up with that nonsense today, Harry gave a hearty two fingered salute which elicited laughs from the rest of the audience, especially Sirius.
"Please! If we could continue," Bagman almost begged. Once a bit of silence fell he continued, "Our leader, Hogwarts champion Cedric Diggory will enter the maze first followed by Durmstrang Champion Victor Krum 45 seconds later. Thirty seconds after him, Beauxbaxton Champion Fleur Delacour will enter and a full minute after her the fourth contestant Potter will enter."
Harry felt Hermione's ire at the slight and responded before he could stop himself, "Excuse me? Bagman? How did you refer to me?"
Bagman was surprised, he hadn't expected the teenager to call him on his slight, being the youngest. "I called you by your n.. name."
"You called everyone by their first and last name. And myself you referred to as 'Potter'. For the purposes of this tournament, I am Harry Potter, but you had best remember Mr. Bagman that I am Lord Harry James Potter-Black. This tournament will last just this last event and my schooling another year or so, but I will always be Lord Potter - Black. Carry on Mr. Bagman."
He could feel the sorrow and the mentally given apology from Hermione. This soul bond thing was going to take some getting used to.
Finding his place, he continued as if nothing had been said. "Somewhere in the maze is the Triwizard cup. The first champion to grab the trophy will win 1,000 Gls, eternal glory and be crowned Triwizard champion!"
SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE
EARLIER
"This one is a fighter," Amelia was briefed. He couldn't use his magic, his hands and feet were tethered to a short chain severely restricting movement, so he did the only things available to him. He spat and cussed and if someone wasn't wary would try to bite him. Still emulating the snake his master was so fond of, Barty would at random times stick his tongue tasting the air. He was surprised therefore when his aggressive spitting and biting attempts earned him slaps and punches from his captors.
Barty was stunned. No so much the punches or the pain, but the fact that someone would dare lay a hand on him. "I am the pure blood son of the former minister of magic. You can't treat me that way!"
Another sharp slap brought him up short. "You wizards are pretty stupid. What part of everyone thinks you're dead didn't you understand? You're completely in our power now, Mr. Pureblood. We're going to squeeze you every bit of information you have, everything you've done. By the time you and I are through you will be telling things even your half dead master doesn't know." The Sergeant Major never felt that yelling was conducive to information gathering. There was a time and a place for everything, at this juncture "scary whispering was much more effective. He finished with, "And then when we do kill you, and kill you we will Mr. Crouch, you can go to that next great beyond knowing that you helped us kill your half blood bastard lordling once and for all."
Barty exploded and tried to apparate, and then tried wandless magic. Giving that up he once more strained to get his hands wrapped around Cole's neck.
SGTMAJ Cole just laughed at him. "You wizards are pussies. Just the other day three muggles killed twelve of you and captured three. They're already crying like little bitches, just like you will." He smirked and roughly tousled Crouch's hair before he could react before leaving while Crouch screamed repetitively of killing every muggle on Earth.
A short distance away watching on closed circuit TV.
"Are you sure this is wise getting him so worked up?" Amelia was more surprised at the treatment of the prisoner. She had no problems roughing up a few mutts. Having been an auror for over 25 years she's seen the hard interrogations. She didn't realize she had been subtly conditioned. Pure bloods aren't treated like that, ever.
Col Markum snorted almost silently, and not just at the impotent rage of the prisoner. "Let him burn all of his energy now, it'll just break him all the quicker later." He cut her off before she could raise her next point. "Look, from everything we've learned the pure bloods literally get away with murder while the rest of your population suffer. It's exactly this kind of mind set that has you in this situation. Her majesty is not happy. Already your troubles bleed over and affect the rest of the world." He turned to look at her directly, "Voldemort will not be allowed to infect the world much longer. He is a parasite I've been ordered to eradicate. This," he indicated the monitor with his chin is just the first part of the treatment."
He pushed a button on his console, "Go!" he commanded.
The door burst open and the still struggling Crouch was pinned by four burly guards. Another jabbed a needle into his arm and the five watched him struggle until his head hit the table. His consciousness and will muddled by the potent chemicals.
A short time later found Barty Jr. stripped to his shorts lying on a table. An IV was steadily dripping into his arm while monitors reflected the strange patterns and numbers that Amelia couldn't begin to comprehend. The Colonel and guest were a lot closer this time. "Begin," he commanded. Another person jabbed a needle into the already running IV changing the color of the fluid in the tube to a slightly yellow color.
"Is this safe for people?"
The colonel shrugged, "We tested it on rats first. The last told us everything. That rat survived, I'm sure this one will too."
"Ready!" The injector called.
"Tells us, Barty," The colonel said conversationally. "What was the first bad thing you did?"
"I...I was s six and the cat had scratched me..."
SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE
PRESENT TIME
Cedric was primping. Occasionally jumping up and down trying to "loosen up" like this was a jog or Quidditch match. Harry just shook his head at him. Cedric wouldn't take an advice from him even if he offered humbly. And Harry was done being humble with the ponce. He put his arms around the shoulders of his friends. Both Vik and Fleur smiled and put their arms on the shoulder of the others. Some the crowd "booed" but more applauded the camaraderie. "Two things. I know we only have a moment. First and foremost thank you. It's been a tough year, but meeting the two of you and becoming friends with the both of you had made it worthwhile."
Both Crum and Delacour expressed similar sentiments before he could continue.
"Second. And this is important when the whistle blows and it's my turn, make sure you are not touching any of the hedges. Neville tells me it might be bad."
"'Arry have you been bad?" They were both smiling.
Shrugging, "Well they said nothing muggle and we couldn't bring anything except our wands. Nothing in the rules had anything about having anything prepositioned."
The magic camera caught Fleur's delightful laugh and her kissing both Harry's and Viktor's cheek. Even as the magic enhanced whistle had Cedric scrambling to enter the maze. He had been caught up sneering at the three neer do wells and was surprised. That haughty sneer, as well as the friendly hug, had been forever immortalized on the front page of the Prophet. It might have been Bozo's best shot.
The girls kept up a running commentary, in no time at all the others had gone as well and left Harry waiting. If he really concentrated, he could hear what his girls heard, but now was not the time to mess with that. He watched with everyone s Cedric encountered his first trial. Suddenly in front of him was the image of his father screaming, "You're nothing! We adopted you. You are the son of the world's weakest squib and the lowest mudblood in the world! Your mother and I never want to see you again!"
Even Harry felt sorry for him. Cedric fell to the ground while the Boggart fed off of his fear. Fortunately for Cedric, the hedges shifted and where the Boggart blocked him, the hedges aided him enabling him to first crawl and then shakily stand and walk away while looking for another route.
SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE
A SHORT TIME AGO
"How long can you keep questioning him?" Amelia had watched as they truly drug everything out from him. Including raping and then oblivating several fine ladies that she knew. He didn't care their blood status either. He was actually proud of his accomplishments.
"We questioned the Rat for six hours straight. We only stopped because we ran out of questions for him and got tired of hearing how much he hates himself."
But we've never been able to question anyone for more than 45 minutes before Veritaserum poisoning sets in."
"We saw that," a nearby doctor answered. "When we synthesized this we were able to make adjustments for that. In theory, there's no limit to the amount of tine you can question someone."
She was stunned. Potion Masters had been working for decades looking to extend the effectiveness of Veritaserum and the muggles did it in less than two months.
"...And the Triwizard Trophy is a portkey."
"We know that. Why are you smiling?"
"Because it's a portkey to my master, where he'll be reborn. Potter will be handed over to him and then die at his hand."
"What happens if Potter doesn't win?"
"It is my task to ensure that he did."
Cole laughed at him. "You failed. You are a failure." Once again Bones was impressed with the muggles. They had obviously researched Bart Crouch Jr. thoroughly and knew what made him tick. Even restrained under the effects of several different drugs he was still yelling and screaming. Cole nodded to the doctor who injected more of the yellow liquid into the plastic tube. She heard him say, "Good. Get angry loser. You're hopeless. A bunch of muggles have you and you're never going to be free again." Cole saw the effect his words had before continuing. "Now we'll start again, What was the first thing you ever did wrong."
Amelia shuddered at the ruthlessness and efficiency before she left to apparate to Hogwarts. Hopefully, it wouldn't be too late.
SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE SMARTARSE
Harry watched the progress of the others on the big screen. He even watched himself watching, but quickly ignored that. He noticed and thanked Hogwarts when he saw Cedric get stymied by the shrubs changing when he was going to make progress. Conversely he noticed that it didn't have an issue with either Fleur or Viktor. Without using the words Hogwarts related to him that even she noticed what an ass he'd been. It was easy to feel Hermione's and Luna's amusement at the feelings.
Bagman was still miffed about being castigated, "Still think you can win LORD Potter?"
"I'm going to try Mr. Bagman. But what I do know is that I'll be a member of the Wizengamot for a long time and am already Goblin friend. Have you thought any about that?" This bond was proving helpful already. The info about the 'Gamot and the goblins came from Luna and the best way to use them from Hermione. All at the speed of thought. "Isn't it time for you to blow the whistle?"
He stood stunned for a moment until the whistle comment registered. Checking his time piece he blew loudly. "Good luck m my lord!" A hopeful smile on his face.
Harry sprinted into the maze he turned left on a whim. "Let's see how this works." The joined mind declared to each other in mindspeak, "Stupid magicals." He pointed his wand at the nearest bush. Neville had several elves pouring potions into the soil several times a day for the past two weeks. Every time Pomona would add potions and cast a spell on the hedges to grow and protect it from pests, fire, and even frost, Neville had all of the elves of Hogwarts willing to help. None of them were forbidden to help, besides this is one of the heirs. Son of Godric and Hogwarts whispered to Bossman that Lord Potter may be Lord Slytherin as well. 'Hogwarts will always come to the aid of it's favorite sons,' it had said.
This was the first spell that Harry had cast while in the joint mind. They were well beyond the need for speech especially now. "Glacius," he thought. It was echoed simultaneously by his bond mates. A white mist seemed to come from the tip of his wand and spray in a wide pattern impacting the hedges. As if by magic, (tongue in cheek), the hedge froze and the freezing of the hedge continued in both directions at once. Just like an intricate display of dominos, the hedges were all froze solid in less than 30 seconds. Harry then cast his next spell. They had discussed this several times. Neville was unsure if the first spell would automatically knock to hedges down, when it didn't they had planned for a good stiff win. At a minimum, it should clear all of the hedges in front of him. "Ventis!" Caught up in the moment, he yelled and over powered it...a lot. He heard more than one person exclaim, "My Merlin!"
Some of the hedges at the extreme edges of the maze were still standing, but all of the rest fell, disintegrated into so much dust and leaves. At least Hagrid would have an easier job cleaning up. A close up of the other three contestants showed them with the same look of confusion and awe that the audience held. It was a lot easier to see the cup, some 30 to 40 meters in front of him. Despite the disparate entry times, he was fairly equidistant as the others from the not so coveted prize.
The bad part of this plan was that every creature now saw every other creature. The two triads had discussed this at length, with the large time handicap everyone had thought this the best way to even everything out. Harry didn't wait to count the enemies around him. He took off at a sprint towards the prize even as his ears heard the roar of the crowd. The other champions seeing him sprint took off running as well. And not to be outdone were the assorted hazards in the maze.
Harry hadn't gotten 20' before the nearest blastended Skrewt decided that humans were now on his menu. He pulled up to cast a spell and noted the other champions also had their own challenges. Without really thinking about it, he levitated the by now huge Skrewt and "tossed" it towards another Skrewt and a sphinx that was upset that Krum ran past him so it was attacking. His path had brought him near to Fleur so the two Skrewts and sphinx were tangled in a heap. He had no desire to see the outcome of that particular battle, and neither did the other two champions. They emulated him and took off running towards the prize.
Cedric had been caught unaware just like everyone else. Of course, he knew whose handiwork it was that made the hedges fall apart. "Damn that Potter, " he swore. "Makes a mockery out of everything." Seeing Potter run he started to run as fast as he could. He wasn't in his best form, with no Quidditch he had concentrated on spell work. In fact, the other three contestants were in much better condition than he was. They all worked out together. They had invited him but he had ignored them. He vowed to start exercising again, it showed in spell work; not that he was going to admit it to anyone though. That same Boggart had spied an easy meal and had made a bee line directly for Cedric. This time he was ready though and had sent a powerful Riddikulus that turned the Boggart into an even funnier caricature of Marvin the Mad Muggle.
The entire pitch devolved into a general melee. There were half dozen Boggarts, two Sphinx, four trolls, a full dozen spiders and more. Everything was trying to eat/stalk/mate with the other creature. Harry had made it half way to the cup by this time. Above the screeches, the sound of spell fire, roars and other confusion he heard faintly. "I 'ate you 'arry Potter!" He smiled in spite of himself. Fleur had partially transformed and was flinging fireballs from both hands while her wand rested above her hear, a la Luna. She threw a ball past Krum who was being pursued by a pack of wolves.
He couldn't help it, even as he threw an Arania Exumai over his shoulder at some rampaging spiders that had gotten to close. The camera caught him at again the perfect time. His eyes alight with the joy of battle a smile of delight on his face. The girls plainly heard his mental cry, "I love this shit!" Hermione couldn't even yell at him, she too was caught up in the fervor of battle.
They were all so close now. They were all closing in on the cup Cedric was coming form one direction, while Fleur and Viktor continued to pace each other. Each of the creatures behind them had been attacked by something giving the champions a respite. It was going to be close. Harry was only a step away. The others a step and a half. He was going to do it! He was going to grab it and win. Until that very moment, he didn't realize that he even really cared.
Fate once more rolled the dice however. One of the spiders had been attacking a skrewt. The stupid thing was attacking the largest one and it's diamond tough mandibles were closing on the hard chitinous exoskeleton when the creature lived up to its name and blast ended the thing right behind Cedric. In pain and still burning, the spider began to snap at Cedric which would have ended his life. The magic mirror plainly caught Harry saving his life, "Cedric look out! Firing the Exumai spell again missing Diggory's ear by a hair's breadth. Ced turned saw the monster and briefly smiled. Suddenly he pointed generally behind the other three with his off hand. "Look out!" The three turned expecting some danger.
The crowd clearly saw the half blood save Cedric and in the next moment saw the full blood cast a wide area stunner at their backs, catching his three competitors unawares. With a crow of triumph, Diggory grabbed the trophy and was ported away.
Neville cussed when Hermione and Luna collapsed at the same time as the others. The girls propped up Luna and Neville held Hermione. "Damn that backstabber!" The other triad expressed simultaneously. Dumbledore just sat there and waited for Diggory all the while the three champions lay on the ground unattended. It would only be a moment or two before the monsters caught their scent. "Aren't you going to do something headmaster?"
Neville heard Madam Maxim swearing vociferously at the bearded goatman. After a quick sonorous, he answered the many calls. "The tournament continues until a champion is crowned. Since it continues my hands are tied there is nothing I can do."
Cries of protest rose from every quarter, but he sat there a secret smile played on his lips. He thought, "This plays right into my hands. Fate favors me. I, her most favored son will remove that thorn from my side. It's too bad about the French tart or the Bulgarian. But magical England will be safe in my hands again."
Neville called, "Mike" the elf read his master's displeasure. "Youse call Master Nevy?"
I need you to get as many elves as you need. Stay invisible, but ward Lord Potter and the others until they wake please."
"At once master Nevy."
The next ten minutes saw many of the creatures begin to stalk the helpless prey only to be attacked by another creature at the last minute. Very few figured it out, Dumbledore looked at Longbottom venomously. Neville met his gaze for gaze and dared him mentally to try and do something about it. Dumbles only scowled more. There wasn't much he could say or do, he had to let it play out now.
Harry woke at the same time as Hermione and Luna a few short minutes later. Apparently, the spell was diffused between the three of them and the unimind quickly determined that was going to be both a blessing and a curse. He stood and looked around as if confused, but in reality, Neville and his ladies quickly filled the three of them in on the events. Casting rennervate, he helped the other two to the exit. As far as they were concerned the hated tournament was finally over.
Much of the crowd left with them. Even the 'Puffs had a hard time cheering for their victor, wherever he was.
Amelia apparated in just as the triads and the other champions and friends were leaving. She rushed to the pitch. It would over an hour before that situation was resolved. Fudge wasn't happy. Not happy one bit.
