Disclaimer: It's JKR's not mine...obviously
A/N: The end to this chapter is kind of rough (as in the writing). Be warned. Once I finish this story…however long it takes… I plan on going back and editing it properly and adding stuff here and there.
Next chapter will involve the Ball and Ron's scheme becomes clear (only Ron would think it could succeed). I think I will take the chapter all the way until the second task.
Thanks for the great reviews. Rasberry Jo: Good call on Ron becoming more pestering…you'll see it next chapter. Ron will eventually come to accept Harry and Ginny (well as much as Ron ever could), but he will still have other issues that will strain his and Harry's relationship. Accio698: Dumbledore likes to be in control and know what is going on…it will become more of issue and I plan it to come to a head during the summer after GOF.
Chapter 7: Goblet of Fire, Part III
The only talk in the common room that night was about the Triwizard Tournament and what people would do with a thousand galleons. The only person who seemed uninterested in the Tournament was Hermione. She was telling anyone willing to listen, which was only Harry, Ginny and Ron (so long as willing meant willing to stay still), about how she felt house elves were not receiving fair treatment and that something needed to be done about it.
All three of them, rather than paying attention to Hermione, were fantasizing about the Tournament. Ron and Ginny were wondering about what they would do with a thousand galleons, while Harry was thinking about winning and receiving fame that he felt like he had earned himself.
Let's see – I don't need a broom, but I could use some new robes. I could also get some jewelry, but I've never really cared for a lot of it anyway…hmmm…what is there… Ginny's thoughts reached Harry who crinkled his forehead.
Ginny, you do realize that you have far more than a thousand galleons don't you? Harry sent along with the mental picture of the gold in the Potter vault.
Ginny blushed, Err…well…I was just thinking what I would do with gold that was mine that gold is yours.
It's yours too. Harry felt Ginny preparing to argue so he pressed ahead, I inherited that money. I did not earn it – it is just as much yours as it is mine. You are my Ginny, my wife. I am yours…gold hardly seems important after that.
Ginny felt ashamed, especially considering what she wanted to discuss with Harry.
I'm sorry. It just takes some getting used to is all. She took a deep breath and looked into Harry's eyes, Harry, I don't want you to even try to enter the Tournament. Promise me that you won't try to get around whatever protections Dumbledore's uses
Harry could feel how much this meant to her and answered without hesitation, I promise, but why? I mean it would be awesome to win and Dumbledore would make sure things are safe.
Would you want me to enter?
The question hit Harry with the force of a physical blow. He would not want Ginny to enter, not if there was any chance that she might get hurt.
No…when did you get so wise?
I'm not wise, she answered, I just know you.
Harry chuckled, which earned him a glare from Hermione who was still in the middle of her tirade about house elf rights. Ginny, do you know your measurements?
Of course, why? She tried to probe his mind, but Harry refused to allow her to find out what he was thinking.
You were right. You do need new robes. You've…um…outgrown my old ones. Why don't you send off for some new ones and have the shop charge it to OUR vault.
But…
No, buts.
Ginny's mouth dropped open in silent protest, but she quickly closed it. She knew when Harry was not going to back down. Unfortunately, Hermione also caught Ginny's expression of protest.
"Ginny! I'm shocked. I thought you would understand. It is not right how house elves are treated. They're treated like slaves and its been going on for centuries. Why hasn't anyone done anything about it? Now, we really should think of something to help them…" Hermione continued on, her attention now focused on Ginny,
Harry and Ron shared a look, their first in a long time, and silently agreed. They both stood up and left unnoticed by Hermione.
HARRY! You're going to pay for this, Ginny threatened in his mind. Harry smiled and started getting ready for bed.
Once in bed Harry had the nagging feeling he had forgotten something. Ginny was still being lectured to by Hermione, so she was not any help. Finally, he realized what it was: Sirius' letter. Harry tore it opened and frowned. Sirius was coming "North" that meant he was leaving the relative safety of wherever he was. Guilt overwhelmed him.
He quickly got out of bed and began ruffling for a piece of parchment.
Dear Sirius,
Please don't come back – I don't want you to get caught because of me. It was probably nothing anyway; maybe it was just a bad dream. Anyway, I wrote to Dumbledore too so you don't have to worry.
Stay safe,
Harry
…………………………
The next few weeks passed quickly. The one topic of conversation remained the Tournament, but the discussion had shifted from what it was to how the younger years were going to try and enter it. Fred and George had decided on an aging potion and some rather foolish third years were going to try simple disguises. Harry was enjoying the bustle and talk of the Tournament. For the first time, he was not the center of attention and could simply observe.
Harry and Ginny began to notice things; however, that they believed were due to their mastering of their panther forms. During their research they had discovered that animagi often developed traits or senses of their animal forms, while still in the human forms. They both found their hearing greatly improved along with greatly improved night vision. If they had developed other traits, they had not yet noticed. Nor did it appear that they had developed anything from their phoenix forms. They guessed that it might take much longer or not happen at all since the phoenix was a magical creature.
Perhaps the most interesting thing to result from these developments did not happen to them, but rather, the reactions of Mrs. Norris and Professor McGonagall. Mrs. Norris would not go anywhere near them. All it took was a look from either Harry or Ginny and the cat would quickly turn the other direction. Professor McGonagall had also been acting strangely. She kept giving them strange looks and seemed to take heavier breaths when she passed them, but she had not said anything.
Harry and Ron's relationship, while drastically improved from the summer, was still rather strained. Ginny and he were careful not to show too much affection when they were in sight of Ron, but the effort was annoying to both of them. Both he and Ginny had realized from Ron's reaction that it probably would not be wise for them to reveal that they were soul bonded much less that they were husband and wife. It went without saying that they planned not to reveal that they had slept together for most of a summer.
Things got worse when Ginny's new school robes arrived.
"Ginny! Where did you get those?" asked Ron, who was eyeing her new black robe with suspicion.
Ginny sighed, for someone who was usually thick and unobservant Ron had a way of noticing things that would only serve to irritate him. "Where did I get what?" she retorted.
Ron flushed red, his temper was always close to the surface now, "You know what I mean! Where did you get those robes?"
The glare Ginny sent him should have told him to back off, but Ron stood resolutely waiting for her answer, "Harry bought them for me."
Ron's face turned a deeper shade of red and his hands clenched, "You accepted them? What's wrong with you?" He moved forward as if to grab Ginny's robes, but was stopped by a voice behind him.
"You so much as touch her and you will regret it," Harry's tone was deathly calm and held a chill that clearly conveyed his seriousness. Hermione watched from the other side of the corridor stunned. She could not believe that they were going to row over robes. Well, she could believe it. It was not the argument that shocked her though. It was the fact that Harry had his wand out, leveled at Ron. There was no doubt in her mind that if Ron took another step toward Ginny he would be hit by some kind of curse and judging from Harry's face it would not be a weak one.
She had to do something or bad things were going to happen, "What are you three doing? We are going to be late for class?" announced Hermione in a falsely irritated voice. She knew that it sounded stupid and that everyone knew what was happening, but she had to get them out of the area since they had already drawn a crowd. She cringed when she heard a familiar, snide voice start to speak.
"Well, well, well. What do we have here? Is the Weasel finally catching on that Potter and his blood-traitor of a sister are a couple? How pathetic are you? I don't know why you're upset. It is not like your family could sink any lower. At least your sister has enough sense to cozy up to Potter and his wealth," sneered Malfoy with a malicious grin.
Harry whirled around to face Malfoy and Hermione and Ginny moved to stand on either side of him. "Malfoy, the Weasleys are a far better and far richer family than yours will ever be. Just look at your parents – your father is nothing but a goon hiding behind a mask and your mother holds her nose so far up in the air I can't figure out if she can't stand your smell or she's hoping not to set eyes on you," Harry retorted and turned back around. He was in no mood to deal with Draco today and it would only land him in detention.
A sudden flash of white light streamed past his head and Harry turned, drawing his wand. He almost dropped it when a gravely voice yelled out, "Don't even think about it boy." Professor Moody was standing behind him with his normal eye fixed on Harry, while the other was pointing toward Goyle who had bent down to pick up a pure white ferret.
"All you all right boy?" Moody asked, "He didn't get you did he?"
"Er…no sir," Harry answered.
"Good," Moody pointed his wand at the ferret, which had tried to slink its way down the corridor toward the dungeons. "Cowardly thing to do; attacking someone's back. Have you no honor whatsoever?" Moody flicked his wand and the ferret began bouncing – with each bounce the ferret flew higher. "You should be ashamed of yourself. I bet…" Moody was cut off by a worried sounding McGonagall.
"Professor, what are you doing with that ferret?" She was eyeing the white ferret with some trepidation.
"Teaching," Moody responded simply.
"Teaching? How can you be…THAT'S NOT A STUDENT IS IT?" When Moody nodded Harry thought his head of house just might explode, "WE DO NOT TRANSFIGURE STUDENTS AS PUNISHMENT! We speak to their head of house! Surely Dumbledore told you this?"
"Yes, he may have mentioned something about it, but I thought a good shock would teach the lesson better. Perhaps…" The ferret was still bouncing as Moody answered and with another flick of his wand Malfoy transformed back into his loathsome self and began muttering. "Your father? Hah…yes I would actually like to meet your father. We go way back, I dare say he will be extremely happy to know I'm watching over his son…but yes your head of house would be Snape? Good, another old friend I want to have a chat with." With that Moody marched down the corridor that led to the dungeons and Malfoy scampered.
Harry and Ginny immediately burst into giggles. Ron had a huge grin on his face and his eyes were glazed over. Hermione, however, had a frown and started to say that McGonagall was right, but Ron interrupted her.
"Oh, come on Hermione! You know Malfoy deserved it," his own words seemed to sober him up and he looked at Harry, "Look, Harry, Ginny I'm sorry. I…I know I'm too sensitive about money."
Harry's smile got wider. It looked like Ron was finally overcoming his pride and jealousy. "Don't worry about it…just don't do it again." Ron half-smiled at them and they all left for class.
Defense Against the Dark Arts had quickly become everyone's favorite class. Professor Moody may look like he had been on the receiving end of too many curses, but he knew his DADA. His lessons were also focused on the practical. He would demonstrate the spells and then have everyone do them. Thus when they entered the Defense classroom every one was excited, at least until he announced the lesson.
"Today, we will be studying the Unforgivable Curses!" Moody growled at them. The students from wizarding families and Hermione all looked shocked. The muggle-borns, who did not read as much as Hermione did, were interested, but worried about their classmates' reaction.
The Unforgivable Curses? What are they?
They are illegal and carry a life sentence to Azkaban, Ginny answered.
Moody quickly moved on, "Wipe those looks off your faces! I know it's harsh, but you have to be aware, you have to know what is out there. Dumbledore agrees that you are all old enough and mature enough to witness these curses. You have to have CONSTANT VIGILANCE!" Moody yelled the last words, but the class had been expecting it. It was a constant refrain of Moody's and its shock value had worn off after the first few classes.
Harry and Ginny watched in silent horror, while the rest of the class laughed at the antics Moody made one of his demonstration spiders perform under the Imperious Curse. They were both forcibly reminded of Ginny's experience in the Chamber. The next demonstration was even worse as they watched one of the spiders thrash under the Cruciatus Curse. Thankfully, Hermione interrupted that demonstration.
"Avada Kedavra." A green light shot from Moody's wand and impacted the spider. It stopped moving, a lifeless shell. Harry hung his head and wondered if that was how his parents had looked after Voldemort had killed them. Ginny reached out and took his hand and gently squeezed it, giving him silent support.
The next Defense class Moody managed to stun them all again by announcing that he would be performing the Imperious Curse on all of them. Most people watched in amusement as their classmates performed tricks or did things that they would normally never do. Hermione had been forced to act like a chipmunk much to her disgust and Malfoy's elation. Ron had skipped around the classroom three times and even now his right foot would occasionally move involuntarily.
Harry and Ginny had not been cursed. "Ginny Weasley," Moody called out, "You're next." Ginny stood and moved to the front with a frown on her face, but determined never to be controlled. "Imperio."
Hop on one foot, a voice said.
Ginny found that she did not even have to fight for control. This was nothing compared to the Diary. "No."
The class and Professor Moody gaped in astonishment. She had not simply fought the curse, but thrown in completely.
"Very good, Miss Weasley, very good indeed. You may return to your seat. Now, how about your partner in crime, eh? Mr. Potter." Harry trudged up to the front, not eager to be cursed.
Harry felt an odd sensation come over him. It would have been pleasant had it not also interfered with his connection to Ginny. He heard a small, quiet voice telling him to jump up on a desk, but ignored it. By now he was familiar with voices in his head or, rather, one voice in particular and this was not it.
"No, may I go back to my desk now sir?" Harry asked. Something about the experience put him on edge.
Moody praised him and sent him back to his desk before moving on to the rest of the class. The professor did not seem to care for Malfoy as he made him sing "I'm a little teapot" three times before lifting the curse.
Hermione was no longer paying attention at this point though; she was looking intently at Harry and Ginny's backs. Their ability to throw the curse was another clue, she was sure of it. She glanced at Ron and wondered how he did not think there was something strange going on (other than Harry liking Ginny); she sighed, Ron could be thick. She was still a little worried that Ron had not yet accepted Harry and Ginny, although his behavior had improved dramatically.
Looking away from Ron, Hermione wondered when the books she had ordered would arrive. Unfortunately, although the books were not terribly expensive, they were difficult to locate and the book seller had informed her that it might be Christmas before he could obtain copies of what she wanted. Oh well, she thought, Maybe I'll just check the library again. Maybe I missed something.
……………………….
Everyone was lined up outside of Hogwarts' main doors waiting for the arrival of Durmstrang and Beauxbatons. Harry was excited like everyone else and was eagerly looking around for the schools' delegations.
"Look! Over the forest!" squealed a young Ravenclaw. All eyes turned toward the direction the girl was pointing. Immediately the assembled students began murmuring.
"What is it?"
"Dragons?"
"No, it's a flying house!" yelled an excited, but slightly disappointed Colin Creevey who had not been allowed to take his camera. Several students made fun of Colin's guess, but he was not far off. It was a large, very large carriage led by four humongous horses.
Professor Dumbledore greeted the Hagrid sized woman who had emerged from the carriage, "Welcome Madam Maxime! Would you like to wait here for Karkaroff or go inside and perhaps warm up?" Dumbledore's eyes twinkled at the newly arrived and shivering students.
Harry watched with interest as the entourage headed up the steps and through the large doors and into the Great Hall. They were made up of an equal number of boys and girls. Someone moaned behind him and Harry turned. He was surprised to see Ron was the one who made the sound. Ron's eyes were firmly locked on one of the female newcomers. Harry followed Ron's gaze and frowned. Looking around again he noticed that Ron was not the only person staring at the girl.
Er…what's going on?
Ginny responded with the equivalent of a mental shrug.
Ooooh, look at Hermione though, Ginny sent. Hermione was glaring daggers at the girl and then would throw a look of disgust at Ron. Harry rolled his eyes.
Harry and Ginny were so caught up in the silent conflict that Hermione was going through that they did not even notice Drumstrang's arrival until Ron almost yelled out, "Look! It's Krum!"
Ron was right. Krum was one of the students with the delegation. Ginny glanced back at Hermione and saw a look of relief was now on the older girl's face. She was obviously happy Ron was back to his normal, quidditch obsessive self.
The feast soon ruined Hermione's mood as Ron was completely distracted by the new girl. Hermione only made snide comments about her, which Harry felt were mostly on the mark. The girl had refused to remove her muffler until half-way through the feast and complained about Hogwarts for most of the meal. Harry snickered when Ron fell all over himself to give the girl some strange French dish.
"She's a veela…" Ron said, almost to himself. Harry only cocked an eyebrow. The girl or he supposed young lady was very pretty, but not so pretty that she should be receiving the amount of attention she was receiving from the rest of the male population.
"You know…scary as it sounds…Ron might have a point. She is receiving a lot of looks," Harry said.
Hermione turned toward him with a stern look on her face, "Please, she's not a veela besides its not like you are falling over yourself or goggling her?"
"Harry wasn't affected by the veela at the World Cup though," inserted Ginny who was enjoying Hermione's consternation.
"Are you saying that you didn't feel anything at the World Cup? I thought you just had good self-control," asked Hermione. She was now more interested in what Harry was going to say than Ron's glazed eyes.
"What do you mean feel anything? Why would I feel anything?" Harry responded confused. The look of suspicion that passed over Hermione's face made him think he had said something wrong.
That's because you did, Ginny sent, Veela drive most men crazy – only those who have very good self-control…or I suppose who are distracted can ignore veela. The fact that you were able to ignore the group of veela in the forest probably won't cause any suspicion, but all those veela in one place and on display on the field should have caused some reaction…and Hermione would know that.
You think it is because of our bond?
Probably…you know we might have to tell Hermione soon…she's bound to figure it out soon.
Later, Harry answered. "I don't know what to say Hermione. I was more anxious for the match to start than to see the mascots perform. I suppose I was just distracted," said Harry hoping to throw Hermione off the scent.
The quick look that had been passed between Harry and Ginny did not go unnoticed by Hermione, but it was clear to her that they were not going to say anything so she decided to play along, "Well, I suppose so." She was about to say something else when Ron's elbow knocked over a bowl, "…but that does not explain Ron and…her." Harry and Ginny got the impression that Hermione wanted to call the new arrival something distinctly unfriendly.
As they exited the Great Hall, Harry looked back and saw the Goblet of Fire with the line Dumbledore had drawn around it. He sighed; he would have like to have won the tournament and actually be known for something that was not related to Voldemort. Ginny prodded him, bringing him back to reality and he moved toward the doors only to be stopped by Drumstrang's Headmaster Karkaroff.
Karkaroff looked like he was about to yell at Harry for bumping into him when his eyes saw the lightening bolt scar. He stared.
"That's right Karkaroff that's Harry Potter. Now move along," sneered Moody, "You're blocking the doors."
Karkaroff's eyes widened in what Harry supposed was fear, "YOU! You're here?"
Moody's smile made his face look even more mangled, "Me. Good to see that you remember. Now move along unless, of course, you want to extend this conversation." Karkaroff left quickly.
The common room was abuzz with people guessing about who would enter and become the Hogwarts' champion. Harry went to bed early, but did not fall asleep. He tossed and turned until well after he heard Ron come up and add his snores to Neville's.
Harry, meet me down in the common room. Ginny's tone was tired, but insistent. Harry followed her request without question and met her coming down the stairs.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to keep you up to. I don't know what's wrong…" Harry's apology was cut off by Ginny.
"Hush Harry. Just sit here on the couch with me. As was so often the case just having Ginny near him calmed him down. Ginny did not try to talk to him or figure out what was keeping him awake. She already had a suspicion, but knew that Harry really did not understand what was bothering him. Curling up against his side, she kissed him before placing her head on his chest and closing her eyes.
Ginny was asleep within five minutes leaving Harry awake, but becoming sleepy himself. He tightened his grip on Ginny before he maneuvered himself and her into a more comfortable position. Harry soon joined her asleep neither of them considering the consequences of what might happen in the morning.
Ron and Hermione stared at the sleeping couple. Hermione glanced fearfully at Ron awaiting his response. Instead of the expected rage, Ron's face showed a far different expression. It was close to the one he wore when playing chess. He only frowned and left for breakfast. Hermione did not know whether to be impressed or worried.
Harry and Ginny were walking down the corridor to the Great Hall in surprise.
"I can't believe Ron didn't say anything," said Harry. Ginny nodded mutely. "He had to have seen us. I mean, Ron is usually quick to breakfast, but he couldn't have missed…" Their surprise when Ron did not mention anything to them at breakfast or, indeed, for the rest of the day. He was a little quieter than was usual for Ron, but he was not hostile.
The tension in the Great Hall was incredibly thick as everyone waited for Dumbledore to announce the Tri-Wizard Tournament champions. The doors opened admitting the Drumstrang and Beauxbaton students. Karkaroff was already at the head table, but Madam Maxime entered with Hagrid.
"I think he likes her," Hermione said.
Ron stared at them and then said, "Wow. Can you imagine if they had children? They would be like…" Hermione had elbowed him in the stomach silencing him. He gave her a dirty look, but did not say anymore. Harry and Ginny snickered.
Everyone seemed to be eating as fast as Ron usually ate in the hope that if they finished early Dumbledore would announce the champions sooner. But Dumbledore waited until the usual ending time of the feast before standing. Harry got the distinct impression that Dumbledore enjoyed keeping the students in suspense.
There were several snickers and outright laughing when Filch, in his best, coat came out carrying a coffin-like box. He carefully removed the Goblet of Fire, setting it on top of the box before he left.
"Ah, thank you Mr. Filch," said Dumbledore. The Goblet changed colors and spat out a piece of paper. Dumbledore reached out and grabbed the parchment, "The first champion is from Beauxbatons. Congratulations, Fleur Delecore, would you please stand and exit to the door on my left." Fluer stood and Harry could not resist needling Ron a little about who it was.
Only a few seconds after Fleur had left the hall the Goblet sent out another piece of paper. "The next champion is from Drumstrang. We all congratulate Victor Krum and his selection. Now, Mr. Krum if you would," said Dumbledore waving his arm toward the door.
The silence in the Great Hall somehow become even quieter as the students awaited the announcement of the Hogwarts' champion. Dumbledore smiled down at the students and unfolded the last piece of parchment, "And our very own Hogwarts' champion from Hufflepuff is Cedric Diggory." The Hufflepuff table exploded and the other three tables soon joined the ruckus with slightly less enthusiasm.
Cedric had just left the Great Hall and Dumbledore turned to follow when the Goblet began sending off sparks and changing colors again. Everyone stared. A piece of parchment issued from the Goblet and Dumbledore caught it absently and then with what looked like trepidation unfolded the parchment. "Harry Potter."
There was no applause, indeed, no noise at all as mouths dropped open and heads twirled to face Harry who was just as shocked as everyone else. "Mr. Potter, If you would join the others," Dumbledore said without the usual twinkle in his eyes.
Harry stood and numbly walked out of the hall.
Ginny, I promise I…
I know Harry. Like you could keep something like this from me anyway, besides you were with me all last night.
The internal discussion was stopped when Karkaroff and Madam Maxime began angrily demanding explanations.
"I demand that Potter be removed or you allow us all to have two champions! Or, or we will leave!" demanded Karkaroff.
Dumbledore sighed, but was cut off by Moody, "Empty threat. Krum can't leave and Potter has to compete. Binding magical contract – remember? Convienet isn't it? Potter is the only one here who should be complaining – It would take a powerful dark wizard to confound the Goblet. But then I would not expect someone like you to understand that after all Death…"
"ALASTOR," Dumbledore's voice intervened, "Professor Moody is right I'm afraid. Now," he turned to Harry, "Mr. Potter, did you enter the tournament or ask another older student to do so?"
"No sir, I didn't enter and I have no intention of competing," there was no way he was going to break his promise to Ginny and Moody's supposition only reaffirmed his decision…something was not right here.
"I'm sorry, Harry, but Professor Moody is correct. You have to compete. Now if everyone is agreed on this point I think it is best that we all retire." Krum and Fleur exited with their headmaster and mistress, both of whom were in a huff. Dumbledore smiled at Cedric and Harry, "If I am not much mistaken, you both should return to your towers as I believe there are many who wish to congratulate you."
They left together and reached a fork where Harry had to go up the stairs and Cedric down. "Harry, how did you enter?" asked Cedric with obvious curiosity. The story of the Weasley twins' beards had already spread like wildfire.
"I didn't," responded Harry forcefully.
"Okay," said Cedric as he walked down the flight of stairs in obvious disbelief.
Back in the Gryffindor common room Ginny had Ron backed into a corner. "YOU CAN GET OUT WHATEVER JEALOUS FANTASY YOU HAVE IN YOUR HEAD! HARRY DID NOT ENTER. I WOULD KNOW IF HE DID besides," she added in a lower voice, "I was with him all last night." Ron slumped against the wall and nodded mutely at his sister.
"I didn't think that…"
"Oh, don't give me that rubbish. I saw your face – so you had better not even think it. Harry did not enter." Ron nodded again and Ginny, now satisfied that Ron would not make a fool of himself, sat down and awaited Harry's return.
On his way back to the tower Harry's walk was interrupted by the arrival of an owl. He quickly untied the letter from the owl's leg and opened it.
Dear Harry,
Nice try! Your scar hurting is only one thing in a series of events that have caught my attention. I've heard Moody is teaching this year – if he is then Dumbledore is reading the signs too.
I want you to keep me updated if anything strange happens, especially if your scar hurts again. Also, make sure you tell Dumbledore if it happens.
Stay out of trouble…mostly,
Sirius
Harry smiled for the first time since his name was announced.
Stay out of trouble…mostly. Ha…I bet that doesn't include pranks and Malfoy does have a little payback coming.
Perhaps something white and ferret looking? Interjected Ginny.
Harry smiled, That's why I love you…so long as I never get on your bad side.
What? The amusement was evident in her tone.
You can be down right evil sometimes.
Evil? I'm not sure I like that much.
Er…Well, I mean a good kind of evil. Harry realized she was teasing and decided to do a little of his own, But then I suppose the baby of the family would have to be a little evil to keep up with all those older brothers. He knew she hated being called a baby…especially when in reference to her brothers.
Baby…hmmm…You had better be careful or I might prank you Mr. Potter.
Why prank me when we could prank Malfoy together, Mrs. Potter?
…I'll let you win this time.
Harry smiled broadly and hurried back to the tower. He was greeted by a loud cheer and clapping. It seemed all of Gryffindor was celebrating him being chosen as a champion even if he was not. Harry escaped as soon as he could, practically running up the stairs to the dormitory.
"Have fun down there mate?" asked Ron in a bemused voice.
Harry turned toward Ron surprised. He knew that Ginny had yelled at him, but he still had not expected him to take her words to heart. Although happy Ron did not believe he had entered the Tournament, Ron's calculating expression worried him.
Ginny, should I be worried?
Not yet…he's just probably trying to figure out a way to break us up…
The next couple of weeks were rather miserable for Harry. The only positive thing that he felt like he had accomplished was the letter to Sirius informing him of being entered into the Tournament. He eagerly awaited the reply.
The 'Weighing of the Wands' ceremony had not gone well; he had been corned by a rather repulsive reporter by the name of Rita Skeeter. The resulting article cast him as the tragic hero and even said he cried himself to sleep at night. He sighed and supposed it would not have been overly bad if people like Malfoy had never read it.
Besides now being called a cry baby by the Slytherins, the ferret had had produced badges with the legend, "Support Cedric Diggory – The Real Hogwarts Champion!" Malfoy had not stopped there, but had added another message, "Potter Stinks." The second message did not bother Harry all that much and he was rather amused that Malfoy could not come up with anything more creative. Malfoy had been quite putout when Harry had mentioned this lack of creativity.
It was Hogsmeade weekend and they were all eating breakfast hurriedly. Harry planned on using the invisibility cloak to go with the others. He was very tired of being the brunt of jokes and rude gestures from the other houses.
Harry decided to make sure that he did not repeat the mistakes he made last year when sneaking out. He said goodbye to Ron, Hermione, and Ginny and then went back to the dormitory making sure that Snape saw him. Once he made sure he was alone he transformed and flamed to into the underground tunnel leading to Honeydukes. He quickly exited the tunnel after making sure the invisibility cloak covered his entire body.
They eventually found their way to the Three Broomsticks. When they sat down Hermione pulled out what looked to be a large shoebox. She beamed at all three of them or rather Ron and Ginny and then the empty space that was Harry. "I think it is time we took action to help the oppressed house elves." Ginny moaned in Harry's mind. "So I've decided to found S.P.E.W."
"Spew?" asked a fearful wrong.
"NO…not spew. S.P.E.W. It stands for the Society for the Protection of Elvish Welfare. Now as the founding members we will all hold a position…"
"Founding members?" Ron ejaculated his fearful expression during to abject panic.
"Yes, Ron, founding members. I will be the president. You will be vice president since you've shown the most enthusiasm," Ron's face clearly showed that he was wondering how Hermione had somehow switched horror for enthusiasm, "Ginny you can be secretary as you have the best handwriting next to mine. Harry," she began whispering, "you are treasurer."
Ron had just slipped Harry a butterbeer under his cloak and muttered something about them all needing a stiff drink when Hagrid and Moody walked in. Hermione's eyes lit up when she saw them, "Hagrid! Professor Moody!" The two professors turned and walked to the table. "How would you like to join S.P.E.W.? We are fighting for Elf rights!"
Hagrid looked at her in undisguised shock, but Moody leaned near Harry's ear and muttered, "Nice cloak Potter." Harry nearly fell out of his seat.
Moody must have motioned or said something to Hagrid that Harry did not hear as he righted himself because Hagrid soon leaned down, supposedly looking at a pamphlet Hermione had seemingly made appear out of the thin air, "Harry, meet me at eleven. I've got somin' interesting to show you."
Hermione continued pressing her case, but both professors refused to join S.P.E.W. to her annoyance. After the professors left Harry made his way back to the Honeydukes tunnel and then walked his way back to Hogwarts as he was afraid that he might flame in front of someone.
Harry was a little worried as he made his way to Hagrid's hut. Something about the way Hagrid said "interesting" worried him. It also worried Ginny. Ginny had used it as an excuse to keep a close watch on Harry from above. She was currently circling high above him in her phoenix form.
Knocking on Hagrid's door Harry was surprised to find that Hagrid was dressed for what seemed like a date.
"Just stay under the cloak and keep close, 'Arry," he said. When Madam Maxime joined him the mystery was solved…it was a date. Harry wondered why Hagrid wanted him to tag along, but followed them into the forest nevertheless.
From above Ginny surveyed the area. When she began scouting the Forbidden Forrest she could not believe it.
Dragons! No…they wouldn't…
Wouldn't what? Harry asked a little worried that Hagrid had somehow managed to acquire another dragon egg.
There are dragons here and Hagrid is heading right toward them.
Harry cautiously followed Hagrid and gasped when he peeked over the ridge.
I've got a bad feeling about this Ginny…
Just then one of the Dragon's roared and several dragon handlers Harry had not seen shot stunners at them. One of them, he was shocked to see, was Charlie Weasley. Harry's shock and trepidation grew as Charlie explained what the dragons were for…his worst fears confirmed.
In Charlie's distraction he did not notice that the Hungarian Hornatail was waking back up. Ginny, however, was paying attention and quickly dived down just as the horntail opened is jaws and lunged for her older brother.
The red phoenix hurled itself past the front of the dragon distracting it. The dragon, however, did not go after the phoenix but cocked its head and stared at the phoenix. It seemed to be puzzled at the phoenix's arrival. When Ginny began to trill the dragon sat back down on its haunches and made no further moves to go after any of the dragon handlers.
Harry looked around the hallway in front of the Fat Lady before announcing the all clear to Ginny. She flamed into existence next to him and quickly transformed and they made their way into the common room. The first thing Harry did was right to Sirius again. The idea of facing dragons was nerve racking and he wanted help. They briefly discussed the idea of using a phoenix either Harry or Ginny, but decided that revealing their forms would probably cause more problems than it was worth. However, it was the backup plan.
"What about Cedric?" Ginny asked.
"I think I should tell him. Madam Maxime will tell Fleur and you said that you thought you saw Karkaraoff lurking in the forest too so Krum will know. It's only fair."
Ron and Hermione were stunned and quickly agreed to help research ways to get passed a dragon. Unfortunately, they had not been able to find anything. Even the letter from Sirius had not helped that much only saying that he would be in contact again soon.
A few days Harry saw Cedric passing through the hallway and judging from his direction probably going to Herbology. Harry turned toward the others and said, "I'll catch up." Ron and Hermione look puzzled, but Ginny nodded and led the other two away by the elbows.
Taking careful aim at Cedric's bag Harry muttered, "Relashio" causing a split to form on the bag and several books and ink bottles to fall out. Cedric gave a great sigh and then told his companions to go on that he would meet up with them.
"Hey, Cedric!" Harry said rushing up to him and ignoring Cedric's attempt to say he did not need help with his stuff, "The first task – it's dragons. They've got one for each of us and we have to get past them!"
Cedric stopped putting stuff into his bag and paled slightly, "Why are you telling me?"
"Maxime and Karkaroff saw them so Fleur and Krum will know. It's fair this way."
Cedric nodded said, "Thanks," and left quickly when he saw Professor Moody come around the corner.
"Potter!" Moody growled, "Come with me." They silently walked, other than the sound of Moody's wooden leg, to Moody's office. "Sit," said Moody and indicated a chair with his hand.
"Professor, I…" Harry began.
"Don't worry about it. Cheating is a tradition of the Tournament and always will be no matter what Dumbledore would like to believe. What you did, however, was a very noble thing. Why did you do it?" Moody seemed to be genuinely interested in Harry's motives and seemed to be measuring him up with his one good eye.
Harry shifted uncomfortably, "It was only fair professor." He really did not know what else to say. Moody seemed to consider this and nodded.
"Yes, I suppose it is. Do you have any idea how to get past the dragon?" Harry shook his head no. "Well, I'm not going to tell you how, but I will give you a bit of advice – play to your strengths."
Harry frowned and wondered why Moody had emphasized the word play. "I don't really have any strengths other than quidditch…wait…" Once Harry had said quidditch his thoughts had immediately gone to his firebolt. It was so simple.
Moody smiled his gruesome smile, "You are a quick one. Well you better go. Here's a note excusing you for being late."
The remaining weeks that led up to the first task were far more pleasant than the previous. Harry suspected Cedric had told the Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws to back off because they were no longer sporting the "Support Cedric Diggory" badges. The Slytherins continued to be awful, but then they were always that way.
Currently, Harry was pacing in front of the common room fire waiting for Sirius' head to appear in the fire. Sirius had written a cryptic note saying to wait by the fire at 1:00.
Ginny's eyes followed Harry back and forth as he paced. Finally, she stood and grabbed his arm, "Harry, sit," she commanded, "You are going to drive me crazy if you keep do that. Don't worry; I'm sure Sirius is fine." She pulled Harry down with her as she sat and forced him to stay sitting by placing her head in his lap. She knew Harry would not disturb her by moving and they still had fifteen minutes until one.
Sighing at the situation, Harry had no choice but to accept it with the position Ginny had taken. Instead of fidgeting, Harry began playing with Ginny's hair. He could never figure out why, but playing with Ginny's hair always seemed to relax him.
Ginny smiled as she felt both Harry's body and his mind relax and allowed herself to enjoy Harry's manipulation of her hair. While Harry found playing with Ginny's hair relaxing, Ginny found it arousing. After a few minutes, she could not stand it any longer and gently grabbed Harry's wrist and brought it toward her mouth and kissed the back of his palm.
Shivers of pleasure seemed to spread from where Ginny had kissed his hand and Harry moved his other hand under her head. Moving his head down and bringing up Ginny's unresisting head with his hand, he kissed her. Neither of them noticed when the fire changed to green and Sirius' head appeared.
Sirius opened his mouth and then shut it, smirking. He had heard from Harry's letters and Dumbledore's that his godson and Ginny were an item. Reading between the lines he had begun to suspect that there was more to it than boyfriend and girlfriend. Now watching the two enthusiastically snogging, his suspicions were confirmed. He decided to interrupt when Harry moved from Ginny's lips to her neck. Ginny had moaned and moved her bent her neck to give him better access. Yes, if he did not interrupt he was a little worried he might see something he did not want to see.
"My, my, what do we have here?" Sirius called out softly. It had the desired effect. Both Harry and Ginny sprung to sitting positions narrowly missing each others' heads by centimeters. Sirius let out a barking laugh and then said, "All right, play time is over." Both and Harry and Ginny blushed, "I want to talk to you – I've been hearing some disturbing things. Too many strange things have been happening."
Ginny began listing them almost without thinking, "We know. First, Harry's scar hurts. Then the Death Eaters at the World Cup, the incident at Moody's – does that qualify as strange – and of course Harry's been entered into the Tri-Wizard Tournament. Oh and Hermione has been harping on us about SPEW."
"Spew?" asked Sirius momentarily distracted.
With her best Hermione voice, Ginny said, "Not spew, S.P.E.W. It's a society she's formed for advancing house elf rights. She's been nuts about it since Crouch fired Winky."
"Crouch? Barty Crouch?" Harry and Ginny nodded. "That is strange. I'm not sure it's connected though. Tell me more." Harry and Ginny related the story to Sirius who seemed to grow even more concerned as the story ended. "You say Crouch is now there for the Tournament? Well, keep an eye on him. He's not one to be a Death Eater, but it is a strange coincidence."
For nearly an hour they talked with Sirius. He liked the idea of using the firebolt to get past the dragon. Harry could not help thinking that it was a good thing that they had just learned the Accio Charm in Charms. He did suggest that Harry could use the Conjuctivitus Curse if the firebolt did not work.
………………………………
Harry joined Cedric, Fleur, and Krum inside a tent where Bagman had just had them choose which dragon they were going to face.
Harry shook his head as he looked at the miniature dragon.
Just my luck that I would get the Horntail…
Focus on your firebolt and don't panic. Ginny's tone was calming, but he could still hear the underlying panic at his situation.
Listening to the others go before him was absolutely nerve-racking. If he had been scared before, listening had only increased his worries by at least ten times. He heard Bagman call his name and took a deep breath. It was time.
He stepped out through the fold in the canvas and found himself face to face with an obviously irritated dragon. Raising his wand he called out, "ACCIO FIREBOLT!" and feverously hoped it would come. At first he thought the charm had failed. Then he heard several surprised yells and screams and his firebolt zoomed over to him and stopped by his side. Smiling in triumph and momentarily forgetting that he had to face a dragon, Harry mounted the broom and kicked off.
Leaning forward, he dove for the golden egg only to have to pull up and perform a sloth grip roll to avoid the dragon's fire and then its tail. Again he tried; this time he fainted in one direction and went the other. The dragon, however, was not fooled and he narrowly avoided being burned.
Not willing to give up, Harry soared just above the dragon's reach and began circling. The horntail's head followed his every movement. Harry smiled when he figured it out. He would have to be careful, but he thought he might be able to lure her away from her eggs.
Harry was just about to fly slightly hire and force her to unfold her wings when the dragon looked directly into his eyes. If Harry did not know better he would have said the dragon looked surprised and then…ashamed?
The horntail refolded her wings and sat back on her haunches, all aggressiveness gone. Harry flew down to the floor and dismounted somehow knowing the dragon would not attack. When he began to walk toward the eggs, however, the dragon shifted uneasily. Harry stopped when he sensed her unease. Not knowing what to do, Harry pointed at the golden egg trying to tell the very protective dragon that he wanted that one.
The horntail cocked its head at Harry and then looked at the egg and narrowed its eyes. Harry again move toward the egg, but stopped when the dragon's snout descended. Instead of roasting Harry, which he had momentarily feared, the dragon nudged the fake egg from her nest towards Harry. Very cautiously Harry lifted the egg and looked back at the dragon feeling like he should say something, "Er…thank you." With that he left through another tent fold to total silence except for one small snicker coming from Ginny.
Dumbledore watched transfixed as Harry walked out with the egg without so much as a scratch on him. He had never seen anything like what had just happened. Dragons did not surrender their eggs. The only creatures dragons ever showed respect for with phoenixes. Most scholars assumed it was because the phoenix was a creature of fire – one of the few natural forces dragons respected. Dumbledore shook his head trying to figure it out.
Harry had called Fawkes to him in the Chamber of Secrets, Dumbledore mused. Perhaps there was a larger connection there than he thought. Maybe it was not the fire that dragons respected, maybe it was something more innate. Looking behind him at Ginny, Dumbledore wished not for the first time legilimancy worked on her and Harry. It was frustrating; he was not used to not knowing what his students were thinking. Without legilemancy it made keeping them out of trouble much more difficult. Deciding it would be best to pretend that nothing was amiss; he raised his wand and drew a large number ten in the air.