Hi everyone! This is InfiniteInspirit, back again with a new chapter! Yaaaaay! Thank you all who left me lovely reviews, it is good to hear your thoughts and musings.

Some of you are really catching the hints I am dropping, like detectives! I am definitely impressed.

Anyways, on with the show. Sorry for the shorter chapter, but it was a good place for a little break and I figured after all this time you would rather have your chapter sooner rather than later. ;)

I had a wonderful time abroad, but I am glad to be back at my home university as well. This semester should (fingers crossed) give me a bit more free time to write and work on this story's plotline. This chapter marks the end of part 1, which is really just an introduction to the story and its most important characters. Part 2 will begin next chapter with a short explanation of what has happened before the Second Task begins, and then we will jump straight in.

To my guest reviewer, emi: No, Draco cannot tell just by the voice color if people are lying. The only way he would be able to catch someone in a lie is if he saw something in the Flashes that contradicted what someone said. He can get a basic character assessment, (how social or hardworking a person is, that kind of thing) but it is not any sort of lie detector. Also, Occlumency is not all that connected to Imperio from what I understand…itcan help a person resist Imperio, but just because someone is a natural Occlumens, that doesn't necessarily mean they are immune to Imperio. Especially because Draco was very young when the initial curse was cast, his father's willpower was much stronger than his own. As for what is going on between Harry and Draco…well, you will just have to wait and see, I suppose. ;) Regarding Luna, yes I would say she is neutral. She hissed at Draco as more of a warning than a rejection of his idea, because of what she could see concerning the danger of being the face of a neutral party.

Thank you so much for continuing to support this story. You have my sincere gratitude, and I hope you will give me suggestions and feedback on what you would like to see, or questions you would like answered. Hope you enjoy!

…...

In the morning, Draco woke up late and feeling sluggish. His dreams had been confusing and full of blurry images, but he somehow got the sense that he had missed something important.

Classes had been cancelled for the day due to the Triwizard Tournament's First Task. However, the Task didn't begin until after lunch time, so he had about two hours to burn before he would head for the Great Hall. Glancing at his roommates, he found them all to be sleeping still, with the exception of Greg, who wasn't in the room at all. Swinging his feet over the side of the bed, Draco strode to his trunk, grabbed a silken robe and some shower supplies, and prepared himself leisurely for the day.

By the time he exited the shower, Blaise and Theo were beginning to stir. Draco greeted them with a slight smile as he replaced his belongings in the trunk, making sure to hide the charms from their view. They may be his allies, but he still couldn't be too careful. Glancing at the mirror, he styled his hair by lifting the front section, but not slicking it back.

Pleased for once to not wear the Hogwarts uniform, Draco dressed himself stylishly: charcoal-colored trousers, a black V-neck shirt, a dark green cashmere cardigan, and his Slytherin scarf. All of the clothes he owned fit him perfectly and were well-tailored to show his nice physique. Pulling some short, chocolate-colored boots onto his feet, he took in his appearance. He could almost pass for the typical Muggle Englishman. Snorting at the thought, he decided to forego the robe. It would ruin the cut of his clothes, anyways.

Draco left the room, deciding that Blaise and Theo seemed wouldn't be leaving their beds anytime soon and he wasn't willing to sit around and wait for them to get up. The Common Room was practically empty, with only a few first and second years milling about in the corners.

There was an unspoken rule in the Slytherin House that the fireplace and sofas in the center of the common room were reserved for fifth year students and higher, with the exception of Draco and his friends, who had always used the space since their first year because of Draco's Malfoy heir status. Draco settled there now, ignoring the greetings and pandering of the younger students. Reaching to the side table, he picked up the morning copy of the Daily Prophet, and sighed when he saw Potter plastered across the front page.

The public's fascination with Harry Potter was ridiculous as usual, and Rita Skeeter utilized this to her own advantage. Though the names of Viktor and Fleur were mentioned, the entire article centered around Harry Potter's personal life, and Cedric Diggory wasn't even mentioned. Flipping through the paper and finding nothing else of interest, Draco set it back on the table with a smirk. He took some time to prod the burn wound on his arm, checking to see if it was healing well by peeling off the bandage. Everything had scabbed over well, so he discarded the bandage and did not cover the wound with a fresh bandage.

Rolling his sleeve back over the scab, Draco leaned back onto the couch, his white-blonde hair spilling across the black leather couch in sharp contrast. Absently, his mind wandered to plans for the Yule Ball. He planned to recommend that Viktor take Pansy (Draco owed her, after all), which meant that the Ice Prince was in need of a date that was bearable. Perhaps this was an opportunity, rather than an annoyance….he could approach Daphne Greengrass and test the waters. Daphne was a pureblood with the temperament and intelligence that would be expected of a Malfoy's date. Choosing Daphne would keep up appearances for his father and anyone else who happened to be watching, and could be a possible ally if she was willing to become neutral.

He had time yet to ask her, though he had perhaps move quickly rather than wait. Daphne was very popular, both within his year and with the older students. If Draco was the most influential individual in Slytherin, than Daphne Greengrass was the most influential woman. The Greengrass family was old and traditional, so perhaps he should prepare to ask her to the ball according to Pureblood custom.

He smiled lightly, staring into the flames. It was nice, after everything that had happened lately, to think about such ordinary things as asking a girl to the school dance. For the first time since he had been burned in the vision, Draco felt most of the tension leave his body and he languidly relaxed against the soft leather, glad for the quiet morning in which he could unwind away from his housemates.

Folding his hands on his lap, Draco focused his mind on the coming Tournament, and the events that would take place within the next two months. He would need to arrange to meet Charlie covertly sometime while a Champion was involved in the Task in order to draw the attention elsewhere. Once they spoke, he could make sure that Charlie was at Hogwarts to stay for the remainder of the Tournament. That was the most important step, because Draco had foreseen the consequences of attempting this without the Dragon Tamer's help. If Charlie had not been able to manage such a feat on his own, it would become Draco's first priority to ensure that it would happen…somehow.

Deciding to see how Viktor was faring, Draco touched the moon on his palm lightly. Viktor…how are things looking? I know you are prepared for the First Task already, but you must be nervous. It is still very dangerous.

A soft reply came about forty seconds later. Sorry Draco, I was training. I have a few moments now, though, to rest. Things are going well, I am not worried about my chances of success but I must admit it is nerve-wracking. I hope your plans are proceeding well, too.

Fairly well, considering. I did have something of a favor to ask you, though. Have you asked a girl to the Yule Ball yet? Draco hoped that discussing such a trivial matter was okay…Viktor must be busy.

No, I have not even considered anyone yet. What is the favor? I am sure it is easily done. Viktor's voice was faint. He must be some distance away.

Would you take Pansy as your date? She will be good company, I promise. I owe her a favor, and this is a good way for you both to improve your status and reputation with your parents…and avoid suspicion. Plus, that way Pansy won't have to go with me and act stupid and obsessive like people expect her to. Draco tapped his fingers absently against his palm.

As I said…easily done. I will make sure to ask her publicly and creatively. Thanks for saving me the trouble of finding my own date. Anyways, I should return to my training. I will see you in the afternoon…you should stop by before the Task begins, even if it isn't allowed. He paused, as if doing something else. I am sure you can be…discreet. Bye, Draco.

Draco didn't bother replying, Viktor was clearly occupied with something else presently. Well, that was done at least. He was sure that Viktor would be a gentleman, and Pansy would have a great time being at the center of attention. It was good for them both, as Draco had no intention of being the center of attention…it was likely that he would have other things to focus on.

Rising, Draco left the Common Room and drifted outside. This would be a good time to begin his plans to ask Daphne to the Yule Ball. Most traditional courtships began with a single flower, and while Draco did not really intend to court her, the tradition was the same for a date.

It was traditional to begin with a yellow chrysanthemum, the flower indicating a secret admirer. After this, the suitor continued to give flowers that symbolized attraction, or the beau's attractive qualities. Draco personally planned to follow the chrysanthemum with a jasmine flower, indicating that he appreciated Daphne's grace and elegance. This would be followed by Baby's Breath, which would let Daphne know of the purpose of the courtship: some special event or festivity (namely the Yule Ball). After Baby's Breath, an iris would be his next gift, so that Daphne would realize that this invitation included a political message. Lastly, the final gift would be a green orchid. All his hopes for the alliance would be signified through that last gift, and he hoped Daphne would understand.

Perhaps it was not a typical way to deliver a message, but it was certainly a safe one. Draco had never personally heard of such an elaborate way to communicate, but in his case it might be entirely necessary.

Draco continued to walk, intending to go to Hogsmeade quickly to purchase a yellow chrysanthemum. However, his path was abruptly blocked and he nearly collided with a hard chest. Coming out of his thoughts, Draco glanced up at the taller person. "Charlie." His face was blank as normal but his voice held a hint of surprise. He unknowingly took a step back, attempting to regain his personal space.

The redheaded man smiled brightly at his younger…friend? Comrade? Leader? None of the words fit. Dragon. Now that was more suitable. "Hi Draco! I was able to arrange some vacation time to stay for the Tournament. Because Harry is a family friend, and, well…" he trailed off. Somehow his words and thoughts seemed to do that when he was pinned by Draco's penetrating stare. "Mission one complete?" Clouds of red drifted from his lips accompanying the words.

An unexpected chuckle escaped from Draco's lips at the absurdity. "You are a strange one," was all that the poised blonde said as he attempted to slip past Charlie. As always, he had to make a conscious effort not to stare at the red colors while the redhead spoke.

The elder Weasley stepped in his path again. "That's it? No thanks, no praise or admiration?" he teased, eyes twinkling with mischief in a way that was eerily reminiscent of the twins.

Draco rolled his eyes. "Well done, you got off work. Were you expecting a prize? Sorry to say, I am afraid you will be sorely disappointed." Meeting Charlie's eyes, he explained, "I would love to stay and chat, really. But I have matters to attend to."

Charlie sighed. Hot, then cold…always a deflection with sarcasm or just blatant avoiding the comments. Well, he would just have to try a new tact. It was now his mission to help Draco lighten up, after all. "Okay, fine. I will go with you, then!" Privately he knew that, unless he spent a considerable amount of time around the young Malfoy heir, they would never truly be able to work together. Draco was too much of a closed book.

Draco shook his head immediately, and his mien darkened. "My father…" It was all that needed to be said.

"A glamour, then." Charlie waved his wand in front of his own face and suddenly his hair was a nondescript brown and the freckles were gone. "Any other objections?"

Draco resigned himself to the everlasting Weasley stubbornness, deciding that fighting the Dragon Tamer wasn't worth a headache. Wrapping his arms around his midsection in an unconscious defensive move, he simply nodded at Charlie.

Finally, Charlie moved out of Draco's path and instead fell into step with the Malfoy heir. "So, what is this mysterious errand of yours?"

Draco debated whether answering the question or holding his peace would be less troublesome. "Buying a flower." He told Charlie dispassionately.

The third-oldest Weasley child immediately pounced upon that. "A flower? Is it for a girl? Oh, you must be asking someone to the Yule Ball…how long have you liked her?" He probably asked more questions, but Draco tuned him out.

"This is an alliance offer, not a confession. Don't get ahead of yourself. Besides, I am incapable of love. Dating would therefore also be quite pointless." Draco stated simply. Always that careful neutrality, and a lack of emotion in his expression.

Charlie had to admit, Draco's poker face could fool anyone…in fact, it was fooling everyone. But he knew better, because Draco had been forced to let him in. He thanked Merlin for that, because this poor kid didn't even realize how much he had to offer. "I don't know if I will ever agree with that statement, but I will let that one slide for now. Who is the girl?"

Draco shrugged, apathetic about how much Charlie knew at this point. "Daphne Greengrass. I am hoping that she and her sister might be swayed to our side."

Charlie was pleasantly surprised by the unexpected 'our.' It seemed that Draco was changing little by little without realizing it. "Be romantic enough and I am sure she will." He teased.

Draco return his teasing with a blank stare. "These kind of jokes only work if the person is a complete fool or if the suitor is easily embarrassed. Neither applies to me so I would appreciate it if you didn't bother to speak about pointless things."

Charlie held up his hands in mock defensiveness. "Okay, okay. I will drop that subject then." Falling into a comfortable silence, he regarded Draco's face, noticing that the lines of exhaustion and the bags under his eyes had not diminished after a night of sleep. "More dreams last night?"

Draco frowned. He hated that someone could read him at all, even if it was such a minor thing. "Nothing I remember. Just confusing and vague impressions."

A small child ran across Draco's path and Charlie instinctively grabbed the blonde's arm to keep him from running into the child. Draco flinched at the contact, Flashes flitting across his vision. He was surprised that one memory mentioned his family in passing, and even more surprised that Mr. Weasley mentioned the Malfoy name in pity, commenting, 'It is a shame that the Malfoys no longer think so. Abraxas Malfoy would roll over in his grave if he saw the decisions Lucius is making now.' Charlie appeared to be quite young in the memory, probably before or shortly after he began his schooling at Hogwarts. Draco could feel his curiosity, and confusion at what his parents were saying. Then the memory abruptly cut off and Draco was back wrenching his arm away from Charlie Weasley.

Charlie pressed his lips together apologetically. "I know you don't like being touched, but…" he gestured where the child ran away helplessly.

Draco's brows knitted together in displeasure. "It's fine." He responded curtly. Draco ran a hand through his white-blonde hair thoughtfully, contemplating the memory he had caught a glimpse of. "Do you know anything about Abraxas Malfoy?"

Charlie blinked in surprise, taken aback at the out-of-the-blue question. "Not much. Why do you ask?"

Not meeting the Dragon Tamer's eyes, Draco mumbled, "The memory I saw mentioned him. Your parents were talking about my family. Your father, in particular, seemed familiar with my grandfather."

Charlie's eyebrows rose. "Your grandfather? So that's the connection. I vaguely recall overhearing that conversation and being quite curious what they were talking about."

Draco abruptly turned and walked towards a flower shop, and Charlie backtracked and veered after him. The redhead continued, "My dad, surprisingly, seemed to have a high opinion of Abraxas Malfoy. I also remember Dad being stressed about your grandfather's death when I was very young. That's about all I could tell you."

"My father and my grandfather hated each other. My father thought Grandfather was weak, and Grandfather thought Father's methods too risky and often too harsh." Draco explained as he pushed open the flower shop's door which rang a small bell attached to the door.

The owner of the flower shop greeted them, halting the conversation. Returning his small talk with no little exasperation, Draco quickly escaped the pleasantries and went straight to what he needed: a yellow chrysanthemum.

Charlie leaned against a wall near the door, watching Draco with interest. "Does that specific flower have some meaning to you?" he quizzed, curious.

Draco scowled. "Pureblood courting rituals. If your parents had instructed you properly-" he cut himself off, belatedly deciding that attacking Charlie's parents in front of him probably wasn't the most sensitive thing to do.

But Charlie just grinned. "There's my favorite prat." He teased. "Is it really so much of a tragedy that there are less rules in life? I would think you would enjoy the freedom, considering how restricting the rules in your household are."

Trying not to take offense at that implication, Draco finally selected a single flower that he perceived as the best offered and lifted it to further inspect it. "I resent rules that restrict personal choice, perhaps. But courting rituals are not something anyone is obligated to follow. They do, however, help greatly for those who have trouble fitting into social structures and making their feelings known...like me. Ignorance of these rules makes it very difficult for me to express myself clearly, without misunderstanding." He shot a quick glance at Charlie, eyes burning a little bit with disappointment. "So I would be careful about what you say." He took the flower to the counter and gave the salesman a few sickles for the flower.

Charlie didn't reply, unsure what to even say to that. As they exited the shop, loud noises and screams interrupted his thoughts. Charlie and Draco exchanged glances and hurried toward the noises, adrenaline filling their veins. Rounding the corner, they saw fire in the streets and Death Eaters wreaking havoc.

People were screaming and running away, and spells were flying everywhere. Draco and Charlie ducked behind a stand full of miscellaneous items, drawing their wands. "What is going on?" Draco yelled over the noise. "They should have no reason to attack here! It would be much smarter to remain in the shadows until their attempt to revive Voldemort. This doesn't make sense!"

Charlie had opened his mouth to respond when suddenly Harry, Ron, and Hermione rushed onto the scene, wands drawn and hexes flying. "Damn it! Those stupid martyrs!" Charlie leapt out from his hiding place and went to help them.

"Like you're any better!" Snarling at the pigheaded Gryffindors, Draco stayed where he was and threw interfering jinxes and shield spells to keep Charlie unharmed as he left cover. He was smart enough to know that if his father caught wind of this, it would make things much, much worse. Too bad Charlie didn't take a few seconds to consider that, he thought bitterly.

He continued to help discretely in the ways he could, but it wasn't enough. A cutting curse caught Ron in the chest and he went down. Luckily, at that time Aurors arrived on the scene. Charlie immediately Apparated away with Ron, and Hermione and Harry stayed to help the other injured.

Rising from his hiding place, Draco scooped up the dropped chrysanthemum flower and checked it over. Miraculously, the flower was unmarred and looked just as it had when he purchased it. Brushing off his clothes, he turned and began walking back towards Hogwarts when the shoulder of his cardigan was suddenly wrenched painfully backwards.

Turning with the force, Draco stared straight into furious green eyes. Potter grabbed his collar roughly. "Sneaking away, Malfoy?" he spat, fists white.

Draco scoffed coldly. "Did I appear to be sneaking to you? I have the right to walk the streets, just as you do." He pried Potter's hands off of his clothes and smoothed down his shirt. In retrospect, that had been an idiotic move, because as soon as he took his eyes off Potter he received a punch in the face, and then Potter was tackling him to the ground, fists flying.

Draco spat blood from his mouth and sent Harry flying back with his wand. "Problem, Potter?" he drawled, eyes more arctic than ice. "Swinging fists like a barbarian is beneath me. However, you seem to be of a different opinion."

"You were in on this, weren't you! You've always hated Ron!" The-Boy-Who-Lived was beyond all reason at this point, and he again flung himself at Draco, this time landing a wild punch into Draco's gut.

Gritting his teeth at the pain, Draco hit Harry with a jelly-legs hex, dropping him to the ground. "Really, Potter, what is wrong with you? Have you lost your wits?"

Hermione suddenly appeared on the scene, probably overhearing Harry's hysterical shouting. "Malfoy! Stop it now!" She fired a rapid body bind, and Draco found himself frozen, unable to move a muscle. Clearly Granger had not witnessed what was actually occurring, and Draco paid for it as Harry again fell on him, swinging like a wild animal.

"Harry!" With a startled yell, Granger yanked the Savior of the Wizarding World backwards and gripped his arms. "What are you doing?" Despite Potter's actions, Draco noticed she still did not release the body bind he was currently under.

"He was trying to get away! You know his father is a Death Eater, he must have had something to do with this. Hurting Ginny wasn't enough, now they are after Ron!" Harry tried to pull himself free, but Hermione's grip was strong and he didn't want to hurt her.

Granger gave Draco a suspicious look, but released the body bind, her wand still trained on him. "What do you have to say for yourself, Malfoy?"

Draco scowled, composure waning. "Get this moronic nut away from me." Turning his back on Granger, he crouched to retrieve the flower he had bought. It had been crushed and trampled on the ground. The Malfoy heir sighed in irritation and turned to go back to the flower shop, only to realize that Granger and Potter were staring at him, one in intense anger and one in annoyance. "Well?" he snapped, grey eyes sparking.

Harry looked as if he was about to attack again, and his teeth were actually bared at Draco. Hermione hated being ignored, but she was unsure of Draco's involvement in this whole matter. She stepped aside, pulling Harry with her, and let the youngest Malfoy pass.

Draco didn't look back as he sauntered away, but he knew that this wasn't over. Potter would be back, when there wasn't anyone around to restrain him. While he knew he could take whatever Potter might throw at him, he also was aware that no matter what happened, he would be blamed for it and that could be trouble.

After Draco bought another flower and was on the road back to Hogwarts, Charlie met him on the road. The older Weasley's face was an unattractive mixture of worry and disgruntlement. When he saw Draco's bruised face and bloody lip, he frowned. "Draco, what happened to you?" rather than the concerned tone Draco had grown somewhat accustomed to, his tone was rather even and emotionless.

"Potter decided to take revenge, accused me of being part of the attack." Draco's lips curved up in an ironic but unamused smile. "He always had a brainless streak."

Despite his own worries, Charlie sighed and took Draco's face in his hands, examining the bruises with a wince. "This looks pretty bad. I know a few healing spells, is it okay if I-?" he gestured at Draco's face.

Wordlessly, Draco nodded as the Flashes crossed his vision, pulling himself away from the physical contact. "Really, Weasley, if you keep touching me I am going to know your whole life's story." He drawled, scowling.

Charlie smiled slightly. "Sorry, habit of mine." With a wave of his wand, he cast a healing spell which caused Draco's blue and purple bruises to fade into yellow and green. The blood on the Malfoy's lip disappeared, and the scab healed over. "Why didn't you help me fight?" he asked quietly, avoiding Draco's eyes.

Draco frowned, confusion evident on his normally blank face. "What do you mean? I did. You would've gotten hit at least two or three times if I hadn't thrown those Protego spells."

Charlie shook his head. "That's not what I mean. Why didn't you follow me? Ron wouldn't have gotten hurt if you had helped." He tried not to sound accusatory, but Draco could hear it in his voice.

Draco laughed, but the sound was bitter. "I can't believe this. Are you seriously asking me that?" His hands shook slightly, and he turned away. "You know what, I don't have to deal with this. Come find me when you're ready to think about what you're saying." His throat tightened and he walked quickly away, leaving Charlie behind to his thoughts.

…...

The crowds around the Hogwarts grounds for the Triwizard Tournament included more people than Draco had ever seen at the school. The chattering noise was unbelievable, and if Draco did not feel responsible for the events taking place, he would avoid the Tournament entirely. Pansy and Blaise sat on either side, chattering excitedly to the other Slytherins.

Draco could see Charlie below with the other Dragon Tamers, scurrying about and readying things for the First Task. The dragons had not been brought out yet, so most of those who were present did not know what the Task would entail. Pansy in particular was having great fun speculating what would be happening in the next few hours, her theories wild and extreme.

Cedric Diggory was to be the first Champion, followed by Fleur, Viktor, and finally Harry. Draco sat rigid in his seat, stressed from the day's events and the questioning he had received from his friends after he returned from Hogsmeade with bruises and a split lip.

On the positive side of things, he had successfully delivered the flower to Daphne Greengrass, so what he had set out to do was accomplished. All it took was being attacked by Death Eaters with unknown motivations, assaulted by Harry Potter, and accused by a man who was rapidly worming through his defenses and becoming more important. He didn't even know which one was the worst.

All in all, his mood was rather glum despite finishing the task he had intended to. He was angry with Charlie for assuming the worst about him, but he was even more angry with himself for caring that Charlie had doubted him. His housemates picked up on his dark mood and kept their chatter amongst themselves, letting Draco stew instead of bothering him.

A sudden cheer went up from the stands as a dragon was coaxed into the arena. Draco, who had a fascination with dragons when he was young, immediately recognized it as a Swedish Short-Snout. Silver-blue in color with sapphire blue flames spurting from its snout, the dragon swooped into the arena.

The crowd went crazy as Cedric Diggory stepped into the arena, and Draco resisted the urge to cover his ears or cast a Muffliato spell. The announcers informed the crowd that the First Task participants needed to take a golden egg from the dragon's nest, and that points would be deducted for injuries or other eggs being smashed.

Draco watched with relative disinterest as Cedric Transfigured a rock into a Labrador, distracting the dragon. He then proceeded to sneak to the eggs, but was burned in the process. Next was Fleur, who tried to put the Welsh Green dragon into a sort of trance. The idea was good, Draco decided, but the execution poor. Fleur's robes were set alight as the dragon was not completely taken into the trance. Draco hoped she was okay.

Finally, Viktor's turn came. Draco set forward, eyes trained on the Bulgarian seeker. Pansy and Blaise noticed his interest, and smiled to themselves.

Viktor Krum was clearly the most experienced duelist and was very good at Defense. In fact, his Conjuctivitis curse was too strong, causing the Chinese Fireball dragon to go into convulsions, thus smashing some of the eggs and losing points. Draco winced to himself, knowing that Viktor would be upset at the results.

Draco almost wanted to look away or leave when Potter came out, still incredibly miffed because of the incident earlier. He didn't understand why Potter was so well-liked when he was so moronic and irresponsible. If he just stopped to think sometimes, perhaps he wouldn't constantly be almost dying. Not that Draco was too concerned about that…

Rolling his eyes, Draco slumped into Blaise's shoulder and stared into the sky, discreetly touching his palm to contact Viktor. Sorry things didn't go as you planned out there. To be fair, your idea took the most power. Perhaps just too much power. Don't be disappointed, you will pass them all in points later. They don't have your experience.

A minute passed before Viktor replied. Thanks, I am disappointed but there is no use thinking about it. Now I need to prepare for the next Task. There was a pause, clearly Viktor was in the middle of something. Draco expected that to be the end of the conversation, but after a long while another response came. I heard that there was some sort of disagreement between you and Harry Potter. I assume you are fine.

Draco smiled at the compliment. Yes, a little bruised but nothing serious. He was just being an idiot, as usual. Although Viktor was his ally first, he was rapidly becoming a reliable friend as well. Draco couldn't help but preen a little bit at the thought that such a famous Quidditch player and well-known person was showing concern for him. Petty, perhaps, but he had to take pleasure in whatever he could. His life wasn't exactly sunshine and roses. His eyes shown with a mysterious light as he looked back down at the arena, taking in Potter's antics on the Firebolt.

Weasley asked me about you. He seemed worried. Viktor's voice again came from the bond.

Draco pressed his lips together. I am a little peeved with Charlie at the time for his obliviousness, so please, let's discuss something else.

Viktor chuckled. Draco, you cannot expect a Gryffindor to become a Slytherin overnight. He doesn't even understand what he did wrong, you are going to have to talk to him and explain eventually.

Draco sighed. I know, I just need some time to cool off first. Now that you have some time before the Second Task, are you able to start teaching me how to resist the Imperius curse?

A pause. That should be feasible. Let's talk later, things are busy here.

All right. Great job, Viktor. Draco ran a hand through his hair, thinking about the conversation.

Sensing that his mood had improved, Pansy took the chance and started up a conversation with Draco. "Look who's back with us." She teased, nudging him in the side with her elbow.

Draco smirked. "Unfortunately." He teased back.

Pansy chuckled. "Ponce." Turning to face him more fully, she smiled a little shyly. "Have you heard about the Yule Ball, Draco?"

Draco hid a smile. "Of course I have, and I know what you want to ask. No, my plan wasn't to ask you. But don't worry, I have returned the favor I owed you. You won't be disappointed with your date."

Pansy squealed and hugged Draco tightly. Luckily, he was wearing full sleeves and she didn't touch his hands. He withdrew quickly from the hug and gave her a stern look. "I like you Pansy, but you know hugging is not exactly my preferred way of showing it."

"Thank you, thank you!" Pansy told him excitedly. "I can't wait!"

Blaise snorted. "What about me, your favorite pal? Any special surprise for me?" Draco thought for a moment that he detected a hint of bitterness in the words, but dismissed it as nonsense. Blaise was not the type to hold grudges, he was probably just messing around.

Draco smugly tapped his lips, as if thinking deeply. "If you cannot find your own date Blaise, I will see what I can do."

Blaise smirked back at him. "Touché, Drake."

"Don't call me that." As always, the response was prompt and automatic. Pansy and Blaise just laughed at him.

Pansy continued the line of conversation. "So if you aren't going with me, who are you planning to go with then, Draco?"

Draco disinterestedly examined his nails. "Daphne Greengrass." In a lower voice he added, "I was thinking of extending an alliance invitation."

Blaise chuckled. "And I am sure the fact that she is rich, gorgeous, and actually intelligent has nothing to do with it."

Draco folded his hands in his lap. "That helps too." Their conversation was cut off as Harry completed his task, and after a few more minutes the scores were announced. Draco scoffed at Harry's high score and stood, preparing to leave. Potter had barely even used any spells, and that showcased his skill: limited, with little experience. Running away from a dragon with a broom is just the kind of thing I would expect from a Gryffindor. No finesse and no style. Just running and hoping not to die. Draco's scornful thoughts could not be voiced, however, without criticism from the Wizarding world.

He walked down from the stands with Blaise and Pansy at his flanks, attempting to squeeze his way through the crowd as quickly as possible. Through the corner of his eye he spotted Charlie trying to catch his attention, so he sent the redhead a nod, hoping the self-sacrificing Dragon Tamer would catch his meaning of later. Casting a quick Tempus spell, Draco decided to return to the dormitories and finish up his homework for the next day.

The First Task of the Triwizard Tournament was complete, and the time to help Cedric Diggory was running out.

Draco only hoped that he and Charlie could get over their differences and come up with a feasible plan to save the Hufflepuff Champion…before it was too late.

-END OF PART 1-