A/N: WARNING: Time Turner malfunction…it jumped forward in time, but not too far though. My apologies for this…hopefully it won't do it again…

Oh, if dates do not fit into real time…please ignore it but I will do my best to keep it as close to real time. The best that I can do is to keep track as far as the days of the week whether or not it coincides with an actual calendar.

And now the next chapter….

Chapter 89

Friday, October 29th

Harry was in a daze all day. He could not stop thinking about something strange. The previous evening Harry received a message from Draco wanting to talk. It was obvious that Draco was stressing if not even terrified. Harry met Draco in the Room of Requirement with everyone to find out what was going on. Harry did not sleep all that well that night. As Harry woke in the morning it replayed once again.

"Draco what's wrong?" Asked Hermione concerned at seeing the look on Draco's face.

"My father is here."

"What? Are you sure? Sorry, I don't mean to sound…"

"It's okay Pot…Harry. Yes I am sure. Not that I can remember why but I was going to talk to or ask Professor Snape something. It wasn't until I was at the door to the Potions class room. My father and Professor Snape were arguing. It was obviously a heated argument. I have never seen my father so furious before. Snape wasn't backing down either, though Snape was in a defensive stance…"

"What were they arguing about?"

"Not a clue Ron. I didn't want to stick around. I did not want my father to see me and besides once I saw wands drawn I took off."

"And then you sent me the message."

"Yeah. I don't know…I'm scared okay. And yes that pains me to say it but all the same."

"You don't think that they are still there in the class room I mean." Hermione said shakily.

"I don't know. I hope not. I do not want to be face to face with my father."

"But, he wouldn't do anything to you. Not here at school." Ron said hopefully.

"I don't know anymore. He might."

"I know how we can find out if your father is still here." Harry said.

"How?" Asked Draco.

"I'll be right back." Harry said as he left the room. Once in the hallway he summoned the Marauder's Map and then walked back inside.

"What is that? And how is that supposed to tell us if my father is still on grounds or not?" Asked Draco.

Harry smirked at Draco and then said as he tapped the map he said, "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good."

Draco's eyes opened wide as words began to appear. When Harry opened the map and it showed several names and moving dots with those names Draco stumbled back a few steps. He was in awe and shock, as well as curious and a little unsure.

"Relax Draco. This map is of Hogwarts and shows everyone in the castle except for anyone in this room. The map never lies. It's harmless. As long as it doesn't end up in the wrong hands. I know who created the map so you don't have to worry."

"Is my father still in the castle?"

Harry looked over the map, first checking the area where the Potions class room was located. There was only one dot and that dot belonged to Severus Snape. Harry continued to check over the map. Though he did not see Lucius Malfoy there was a name that was unfamiliar. Harry had never known anyone by that name and wondered why the owner of that name was at the school.

"Harry is Lucius Malfoy in the castle?" Asked Hermione.

"No. I don't see him anywhere."

"Then what is it?"

"There is an Ammon Velius though. Have any of you ever heard of him?"

No one knew who Ammon Velius was. Though all were wondering what type of business he had at the school.

"Tomorrow I'll check the library and see if there is anything I can find out about him"

"I think that is best Hermione. I have a feeling that it would not be wise to go around asking about this Ammon Velius."

Everyone was in agreement. Though Harry was the only one thinking that it was strange that this Ammon Velius is at the school the same time that Lucius Malfoy had been arguing with Snape and that Lucius Malfoy was not seen anywhere within the castle.

Harry shook his head clear and readied for the day. He joined his friends in the Great Hall for breakfast.

"Harry are you feeling alright?"

"Yeah I'm fine."

"Have you slept at all? I mean you don't look like you have." Said Ginny concerned.

"You seem distracted mate." Said Ron.

"I have slept but I can't say that it was much or enough. Yes I am a bit distracted."

"Can't stop thinking about last night can you?" Asked Violet.

"No I can't. It doesn't matter how much I try not to or how much I try to think of other things. I can't explain it…I just have this feeling that there is something off. I just don't know how it ties Lucius Malfoy and Ammon Velius." Harry explained.

"You think that somehow Lucius Malfoy and this Ammon Velius are connected?"

"Yes I do Ron."

"But…"

"I don't know how they are connected Ron but I do think that they are. This is so frustrating. I can't think of anything but those two."

"Try and find a way to stop thinking about it we have Herbology…"

"Hermione I am not deliberately thinking about it. I have been trying to find a way to not think about it…"

"Then fake it. But you have to be convincing that you are actually paying attention."

"Hermione are you feeling alright this morning?" Ron asked with a hint of laughter in his voice.

"I feel fine why do you ask?"

"You are telling Harry to fake paying attention in class and to make it convincing to a teacher that he is actually paying attention."

"Well if Harry is successful in convincing the teachers that he's paying attention in class when he is otherwise distracted Gryffindor won't lose points. This thing with Ammon Velius is something to look into. I mean who is he exactly, is he someone to be trusted or not? Not to mention how does he tie into Lucius Malfoy. Harry I would not mention any of this to…you know…"

"Why would I go tell him my theory? It won't help his nerves in the slightest. Besides it's just a theory. If I tell him anything I want all the information."

"What topic of discussion could have the three of you so…distracted? I believe the three of you have a class to go to. And if I am not mistaken and I am sure that I'm not, you have less than ten minutes to get to your class." Snarled Professor Snape.

All three scrambled to get their things together and gave a mumbled thank you to their snarky Potions Professor as they ran out of the Great Hall.

"No running." Professor Snape yelled after them.

They heard their Professor yell after them but did not stop running until they reached the correct Green house. As quickly as they could they joined Justin Finch-Fletchley.

Harry, Ron and Hermione tried their best to keep their panting for breath as quiet as they could after receiving a glare from their Professor.

Ron paid as much attention in class as Hermione so that he could help with bringing Harry up to speed with the class. Harry tried to focus on what he was supposed to be doing in class but could not stop thinking about Lucius Malfoy and Ammon Velius. He did manage to convince Professor Sprout and the rest of the class that he was actually doing as he was supposed to. Every once in a while Harry would mimic what the other there in the group were doing. Hermione and Ron were the only ones that knew what was actually going on with Harry.

Hermione nudged Harry when everyone else was busy.

"What?" Asked Harry quietly.

"Class is over. Meet me in the library." Hermione whispered.

Harry was the last one to gather his things and leave the Green house. He met up with Hermione and Ron in the library. The first thing he noticed was that Hermione was looking frustrated and frazzled and surprisingly so did Ron with a thick tomb in front of him and obviously studying each page as he turned them. Harry quickly walked over to the table they were sitting at and sat down in an empty chair.

"You can't have gone through much already? It didn't take me that long to get here." Harry whispered.

"Well, no but I had hoped that we would have found something right away."

"Well, slide a book over and I'll help. I am the one that is…shall I say 'obsessed' for lack of a better word."

"Harry you are not obsessing over this. I agree with what you have said about these two wizards." Hermione said as she slid one of the books from the pile to Harry.

The three Gryffindor's had gone through nearly the whole stack that Hermione had brought to the table for them to look for and they had not found anything at all on Ammon Velius. Not even the simple mention of the family name. Hermione in her frustration shut the book she was looking through roughly and rested her head on it with her arms crossed in front of her.

Harry and Ron just stared at Hermione for a moment. Harry caught Madam Pince out of the corner of eye and she did not look happy. Harry quickly nudged Hermione and quietly let her know that the librarian was on her way over and not happy. The three quickly gave a wave of their wands and sent the books back to their shelves and nearly ran out of the library before Madam Pince could scold them for the mistreatment of the books.

All through lunch Harry obviously was elsewhere. Though he was sitting with his housemates he had a vacant expression on his face, staring out into space and pushing his food around on his plate with his fork. He kept thinking about Ammon Velius. They had looked through nearly all of the books on wizarding families and their family names and found nothing so far. Harry knew they weren't going to find anything on the family name of Velius in the books from the sections of the library they had yet to go through. He had a feeling that the book they needed was sitting in the Restricted Section of the library. There was no way that they were going to request from any of their Professor's for a note to look through the Restricted section of the library. Too many questions would be asked and Harry did not feel like trying to explain why they needed to find out everything that they could on this person and why he felt it had something to do with Lucius Malfoy. Harry barely caught a few students getting up from lunch and looked around to see that lunch was indeed finishing up. He followed suit with the rest of the school though with regret that he had allowed himself to be so distracted that he had not had anything to eat.

During the walk down to Hagrid's for Care of Magical Creatures Harry did everything he could to keep his mind clear of everything other than the dam Blast-Ended Skrewts. He certainly did not want to end up injured. There were no books or anything in regard to the creatures.

As soon as everyone was there for the class Hagrid instructed them to pick up where they had left off. When Hagrid's back was towards the class they all rolled their eyes. This far into the year and they still did not know what the Skrewts liked in general or what they ate and they were becoming even more potentially dangerous than before. Harry was doing quite well keeping his focus and attention on the creatures. Nearly the end of class Harry's mind wondered off to the two wizards and how they could possibly be connected. How could one vanish so quickly and the other appear? What was he missing? While being consumed with his thoughts he did not see that a Skrewt was near him was about to shoot off. He was not aware until the fire that shot out of the creature to send it hurling in the opposite direction hit Harry full on.

Harry screamed in pain and shock as the realization hit him and the burn from the fire. Draco did not care what anyone thought, he was the closest one to Harry and reacted to help. Draco quickly while pointing his wand at Harry said, 'Aguamenti'. A jet of water shot out of the end of Draco's wand and hit Harry with such a force it knocked him over but he did not care he no longer felt as though he was burning alive.

Before Draco do more or say anything, Hermione, Ron and Neville were the first to reach Harry.

"Harry are you alright?" Hermione asked though knowing that it was a stupid question to ask she just couldn't think of anything else to say.

"As can be expected. At least I'm not on fire anymore but…the pain…arghhhh."

"Draco what the hell?" Asked Pansy.

"What?" Asked Draco.

"Why did you do that?"

"You're joking right? It's obvious to the rest of us that Draco just didn't want to end up burning up as well. It had nothing to do with Harry but everything to do with protecting himself as usual." Hermione said with as much disgust as he could muster hoping that it would work so that Draco did not end up in a huge mess.

Draco flinched a bit at Hermione's words but he knew or at least hoped that she was just saying the words and how she said them to be because she was just trying to protect him from his house and keep him away from his father. Draco knew that he was going to have to wait and see what happens later.

Hagrid had reached the group of students quickly though it felt to him that it took forever for him to reach them. Hagrid was thankful for Draco no matter the reason behind why he had helped Harry. Hagrid did his best to carefully scoop Harry up in his arms and take him to the Hospital wing. Harry still screamed out in pain.

As Hagrid reached the Hospital wing he did not care if this was it for him as a teacher. He was expecting it, a student was seriously injured. Once inside Hagrid looked around frantically but saw no one around.

"POPPY!" Hagrid roared with fear.

"Oh really. Must you yell? Sure there may not be students in here but…oh my. Hagrid what happened? Bring him over here and set him on the bed."

Hagrid shakily carried over to the bed that Madam Pomfrey had indicated. Tears were flowing from Hagrid's eyes, dripping everywhere.

"Professor Hagrid, what in the name of Merlin happened here?"

Hagrid tried to explain what had happened but could not stop blubbering it out. Madam Pomfrey could not make out much aside from 'fire' and 'Malfoy'. Madam Pomfrey was about to tell Hagrid to retrieve the students from his class when some of them entered the Hospital wing.

Though Harry had obviously been burned the school nurse could not even begin to help Harry until she knew exactly how the student had been burned in the first place.

"Someone had better be able to explain to me what happened to Mr. Potter. And when explaining, it had better something that I can understand."

"Harry has had something on his mind all day so he was distracted. He was trying to not let it distract him and was managing it until…he didn't realize that one of the Blast-Ended Skrewts was about to blast off. When the creatures zoom off or are projectile forwards a blast fire shoots out the opposite end. Harry was standing right where one was and well it blasted off. If not for Draco Malfoy…Harry would be in a much worse state…"

"Thank you Miss. Granger. I will do my best. I must tell you all that I will be doing what I can think of since we have no idea what exactly those creatures are or what they do. I hope that it won't be too horrible for Mr. Potter. Now I need everyone to clear out so that I can tend to Mr. Potter and relieve him of the pain. One last thing I need to speak to the Headmaster as soon as he can get down here."

No one could say anything. Each respectfully gave Madam Pomfrey a nod in understanding and left the Hospital wing. Hermione went with Hagrid to the Headmasters office. She stayed with Hagrid inside the office. Hagrid as Hermione had expected couldn't explain clearly so she explained to the Headmaster what had happened in class.

"Ah, I see Miss. Granger. And thank you for staying with Hagrid and explaining what had happened. What was distracting Harry?"

"I mean no disrespect but sir, whatever had Harry distracted is irrelevant. He's in severe pain. I don't think I have ever seen a burn as bad as he has and I'm a Muggle and have seen some really bad burns. Madam Pomfrey would like to speak to you as soon as you can get down to the Hospital wing."

"Very well Miss. Granger. And you are right the most important thing is mending Harry. I will be on my way. Oh, Hagrid we will talk later this evening. Don't worry though Hagrid."

Hermione to her surprise had no problems getting Hagrid to leave the Headmaster's office. She made sure that Hagrid made it safely to his house. Though she tried to talk him out of drinking it was to no use. Hermione gave up and headed back towards the castle. She did not feel like going to dinner nor did she want to sulk in the common room so she wondered the castle. As she was hailed by her friends including a hysterical Ginny, Hermione caught a glimpse of a huge mass striding towards the gates of the grounds of Hogwarts. She was almost positive that it was Hagrid heading to the village. Hermione was not able to verify what she thought, Ginny was going to need all the support she could get and headed straight to Ginny.

"Ginny, he will be okay."

"How can you be so sure?" Ginny sobbed.

"He has to be. I mean between the school nurse and Harry's magical abilities I am sure that it will not be long until Harry is released from the Hospital wing. I have to believe that."

"But…the Skrewts…they are a creation of sorts. I know that Hagrid means well and would never intentionally cause any one to become harmed in any way but he…"

"I know Gin. I know."

"T-take me to the Hospital wing."

"Ginny…Madam Pomfrey isn't going to let us in."

"Please Hermione…"

"Okay, I'll take you." Hermione said as calmly as she could and could not wait until she was alone in her room or anywhere alone and just let out her fears through tears and sobs.

As Hermione and Ginny reached the Hospital wing, Hermione noticed a group of students following her and Ginny. Hermione could not tell them to bugger off. Quite few were ones that she knew Harry was and always would be close to since they were the only family he had. Amongst the rest were a few potentially new friends, Dudley and the rest Hermione only knew from around school but had not hung out with or talked to. Hermione did not know what to think of those that were there now from only hearing about what had happened.

Hermione quietly led herself and Ginny into the Hospital wing.

Madam Pomfrey heard the squeak of the door as it opened and could faintly hear footsteps and sniffling of obviously a hysterical student and stepped out of where Harry was to see what the problem was. Her eyes immediately fell on Hermione and Ginny.

"Sorry Madam Pomfrey. Ginny she…"

"It's alright. I will let both of you stay as long as you are quiet. And I see nearly the rest of the school followed."

"Please trust me when say that I did not invite them."

"Oh I do believe you Miss. Granger."

"How is Harry?"

"It's not good I'm afraid. He'll pull through but it is going to take a while. How long it will take I cannot say. We are in the dark with what we are dealing with here. It is not simply that he was burned, he was burned by a magical creature and this creature is a cross-species magical creature. I have given Mr. Po…Harry a very powerful healing potion, it is working but it is going slow. I have tried to give him something from the pain but it doesn't seem to work. I have spoken with the Headmaster. We won't be sending him to St. Mungo's they won't have more luck than I at figuring out how to heal Harry with as minimal amount of pain possible. Professor Snape is working on a potion that we hope will help your friend. I need to warn both of you though if you want to sit beside Harry…his body was nearly completely burned. The only part of him that was not burned at all is his face. The rest of his body did have some amount of protection. The more clothing there was the more protection he had. Do not be alarmed ladies if he is unresponsive. I gave him a strong sleeping potion. I hope that it is helping him through the pain."

"Thank you Madam Pomfrey." Hermione said solemnly.

"You may go sit with him. I will be right back I need to check with Professor Snape to see how he is doing."

Hermione and Ginny nodded and then proceeded to Harry's bedside. Both girls gasped when they saw Harry. Ginny did not know what to think of how Harry looked. His neck was a bit red possibly blistered or nearly. The worst Ginny saw was Harry's arms. Ginny's heart broke for Harry. Ginny was consumed all over again with an immeasurable amount pain and the tears began to fall again, flooding her clothes. She quickly took the chair that was on the right side of his bed. She wanted to wrap her hand around his but did not want to cause him even more pain.

Tears began to rapidly slide down Hermione's face. Harry looked as though his skin had been made out of plastic and had melted. Her stomach gave a lurch when she saw Harry as she could see flesh, bone, tendons and ligaments. There was a small amount of dried blood visible around the edges of what looked like new skin forming. Her heart broke for her best friend and cousin. She could not figure out why the school nurse was having such a problem with healing Harry. It was impossible to understand why Harry was in such shambles with the magic he had inside of him. He was the descendant of Morgan le Fay and Merlin for crying out loud. She knew that this was a good lesson for others to not experiment with creatures where students were at risk of injury. Hermione forced herself to stop thinking about it as well as semi-random things. She made her legs work and sat in the chair on the left side of Harry's bed.

Both girls rambled about mostly nonsense but also gave encouragement and told him how many were rooting for him to recover and soon. Ginny was openly sobbing as she spoke. One could hear Hermione's voice crack with every word. Hermione wanted to just break down and let it out but could not allow herself to do that in front of Ginny who desperately needed strength and someone to sputter positive things regardless if the one sputtering them believed with his or her entire being even then he or she was sputtering a positive outlook to convince him or herself.

Hermione and Ginny both jumped as the heard the curtain being not so kindly moved aside. They knew that it was not the school nurse but neither had the inclination to see who it was.

"Miss. Granger, Miss. Weasley."

"P-professor Snape." Hermione softly muttered.

"I am sure that Madam Pomfrey informed you that I have been working on a potion…"

"Yes she did. Sir. Sorry to have interrupted…"

"The potion is almost ready to administer to Mr. Potter. I am however here to find out more about these creatures the fourth years have been working with. That is Miss. Granger if you know." Professor Snape inquired with as much of a kind voice and genuine kindness with his words. Contrary to popular belief amongst the student body Professor Snape did have a heart that was not iced over and he did care about the entire student body and not just his house.

"If I remember correctly the Blast-Ended Skrewts are the result of breeding Manticores and Fire-crabs together…"

"In other words Miss. Granger these Blast-Ended Skrewts are a hybrid type of creature."

"Yes that would be the gist of it, sir. Sorry for not just simply…"

"Apology not necessary Miss. Granger. I do understand that you are going through a rough time…you and Mr. Potter are good friends."

"Thank you sir for understanding. Harry and I are more than friends though…we're cousins…" Hermione realizing what she had said stopped speaking instantly and paled enough that all those in the room knew.

"Cousins? Hmmm. I don't know why I am telling the two of you this but I am not sure if the potion I have made will be effective enough but we will still give it a shot."

"We appreciate that you told us, that you were honest with us Professor. Um…sir…"

"Yes Miss. Granger."

"You have classes to teach plus you are a head of house and grading and well I don't know what else…it seems that you don't much if any spare time to research the two creatures…I would not mind helping with researching the creatures…"

"Please Professor let Hermione help with this. She is the best at research…what I mean is she is the best amongst the student population at research and is thorough…"

"I am aware of Miss. Granger's study and research abilities Miss. Weasley. You are however correct. It would be appreciated Miss. Granger if you would assist me with this…I do not have much spare time at my disposal. Most would say that it would not be wise to allow you to do this since you are too close but I disagree. But do not let your regular studies suffer any consequences though Miss. Granger."

"I won't. I promise Professor, my regular studies will not fall to second place. And thank you, sir, for letting me help."

Professor Snape gave Hermione a nod of his head as he swept out of the Hospital wing.

Hermione and Ginny looked at each other and stared for a moment.

"Well that is all the proof I need to go along with Harry saying that Professor Snape isn't as bad as he seems." Ginny said softly.

Hermione smirked in agreement with Ginny's statement.

Madam Pomfrey shooed the girls out of the Hospital wing insisting that they get some sleep and that they could return in the morning. Reluctantly Hermione and Ginny left the Hospital wing and went straight to their common room.

"Hermione! Ginny! How is Harry?" Ron asked anxiously.

"Not good." Ginny muttered as tears began to fall down her face once more.

"What do you mean, 'not good'?" Ron asked, fear clearly present in his voice.

"Just that he won't be back to his normal self for a while. It's going to take longer than they thought it would for Harry to recover." Hermione answered calmer than she felt.

"How long?" Asked Violet clearly worried.

"They don't know for sure. Madam Pomfrey has given Harry a strong healing potion but it's working slowly…extremely slow. Pain potions don't seem to help at all so she is keeping Harry unconscious with sleep potions."

"But aren't sleep potions addictive? Don't they become less effective the more the drinker takes it?"

"Yes to both questions Violet. The school nurse is hoping that it the sleep potions are helping Harry avoid the pain from the burns. With any luck the potion that Professor Snape made this evening will do the trick though it might not be as effective as needed."

"Hermione, Professor Snape is a Potions Master. Why couldn't he make a potion that would be effective enough? Why can't he make something to put Harry to rights?"

"Ron, Professor Snape may be a Potions Master but…the situation is unusual and there is no protocol on how to go about healing Harry. There have never been Blast-Ended Skrewts before. Research has to be done…"

"What research Hermione? You just said…"

"Ron I know what I said. Yes there have never been Skrewts before but I can research Manticores and Fire-crabs. The more we know about those two creatures we can come up with a possible plan as to how to go about healing Harry completely."

"Wait…you have to do the research? The Professor's…"

"Are really busy Ron and no I do not have to do the research…"

"Why did you agree to such a …."

"I didn't agree Ron. I offered to do the research."

"Hermione…yes you are brilliant. Only a nutter would say otherwise but one can only take so much…I wouldn't want you to overdo it…"

"Ron I appreciate your concern but I know I can do this. I have to help. Yes Harry is considered a good friend to most…but Harry's not just one of my best friends…"

"Oh…sorry Hermione. I forgot that you and Harry are family as well. What can I do to help?"

"Are you serious Ron?"

"More serious than I am about wizard's chess and Quidditch."

"It's too late tonight I think…for sure though tomorrow we go to the library and find out everything we can about Manticores and Fire-crabs. I don't care how unimportant anything is Ron…write it down…"

"Relax Hermione. I will cover everything. I know what is at stake. The alternative is not an option. Bloody hell!"

"Ron what is it?"

"Has anyone informed Sirius?"

"Violet…"

"Sorry Hermione but I haven't. All knew until now is that there was a horrible accident and that Harry was taken to the Hospital wing."

"Violet could you please let your dad know…"

"Not a problem. I'll get on that right now."

"Knowing the staff here at the school they won't inform Sirius until they have more information." Ron added.

"Ron send a note to your parents on Ginny's behalf. I know she won't be able to do it."

"She looks fine…"

"Yeah she looks fine now but I smuggled a calming draught to her."

"Oh." Ron said softly and then went to write the note to his parents.

Once Ron finished the letter to his parents he found Violet and the sent their letters with Hedwig. Something then dawned on Ron.

"Hermione, what about Remus?"

"I'm sure that Sirius will let him know. I'm going to bed now so that I can get up early enough…" Hermione trailed off as one of the elves from the kitchen popped into the common room.

"Can we help you with something?"

"Pepper being asked to deliver notes to missy gra…"

"Granger?"

"Yes missy."

"I am Hermione Granger, Pepper."

Pepper handed over the note to Hermione and left the next second.

Hermione quickly opened the letter and read it.

"Hermione…"

"Nothing to worry about Ron. It's just from Professor Snape. If I want to start researching tonight he has made the arrangements with Dumbledore and the librarian so that I can. You don't have to go with me now Ron but I would appreciate it if you did show up as early as possible tomorrow…"

"Are nuts? Of course I'm going with you now. The sooner we get this information the sooner we can get it to whoever needs it and…"

"I get it and thank you…I know I don't have to say it Ron but still all the same."

Ron smiled, picked up his book bag and followed Hermione to the library. A few others followed behind them.

"The rest of you should go back. Look I don't even know if Ron will get into trouble or not for going with me…"

"It doesn't matter Granger." Said Fred.

"We want to help as well." Added Fred.

"Fine but it's your heads."

"Shall we continue on then?" Asked Neville.

Hermione smiled, shook her head, turned around and started walking again. Once they reached the library they were surprised. Madam Pince was there waiting for Hermione next to quite the stack of books. Hermione fully expected the librarian to go into a rant about how many students had shown up since she only knew of Hermione. But Hermione was shocked when the librarian became relieved to see that it was not just Hermione.

"Miss. Granger I have talked with the Headmaster and Professor Snape. I took the liberty of gathering all the books I could think of. As you know I am selective with what I let the students check out of the library. There are a few here that I would never consider allowing a student to remove from the library but the current situation has me reconsidering it. I figured it would be most productive if you were to have the books on hand, ready to be searched through so I am going to allow you to take all of these with you to your house here at Hogwarts. I also must insist that you take excellent care of all of the books I am letting you take out of the library. I expect to receive the books back in the same condition as they were in before. Good luck and I wish for a speedy recovery for Mr. Potter."

"Thank you so much Madam Pince. I give my word that no damage will come to the books while in my care."

Irma Pince nodded at Hermione and gave her a smile that said she was going to hold Hermione to her word. She then looked at those that had arrived with her and waited for them to give their word before she allowed them to remove the books from the library.

The moment they returned to their common room they began going through the books and making their notes. Everyone helping Hermione and Harry by extension were as meticulous as Hermione when taking notes. Not of them brought up anything about going to bed as they were all more focused on researching the two creatures. They all fought tooth and nail to continue though one by one they fell asleep where they sat.

The following morning Hermione woke first and groaned as her body desperately tried to protest. Hermione muttered several complaints and softly voiced her regret. She was not as quiet as she had thought. A few fellow students were woken by her complaints and regrets resulting in them waking a few others in the same manner. A domino effect ensued throughout the common room until all that had fought sleep to stay up researching had woken. Some had stiff joints, some had sore joints, some had tight muscles, some had stiff or sore necks and there were some that felt a combination of two or more and very few felt all of the ailments. As each stood and stretched more complaints were groaned out.

Before the rest of Gryffindor House woke and congregated in the common room the group had been able to move around and work out the stiff and or sore joints, stiff and or sore muscles, stiff and or sore necks or whatever the ailment entitled. As much as they all wanted to continue with the research they needed a break from sitting in the chairs or on the couches they had been in for several hours plus they could all use sustenance that they would get at breakfast. Hermione had even suggested they all go for a walk outside to thoroughly work out the stiff and or sore joints, muscles and necks. Hermione felt that they could all benefit from some fresh air.

About an hour and a half after breakfast the same group from the night before headed back to their common room to resume the research. Hermione charmed her watch to give an alarm every so often so that they would get up from where they were sitting and move around so that they did not go through what they had that morning. They would be working on it all day and it would be worse than when they woke up. One the research was complete they shared what that had found with everyone. Hermione set out to write an essay of sorts of all that they had found as well as what theories they had for going forward with how to heal Harry. Hermione had finished writing everything late that night. With a sigh she went to bed and hoped that when she gave their findings to Professor Snape that it would prove to be helpful.

Sunday morning Hermione had overslept she had wanted to get their findings to Professor Snape bright and early that morning. She got out of bed, showered and dressed before heading down to the common room. As she descended the stairs her eyes fell on Ron sitting on the couch.

"Why didn't anyone wake up this morning? I wanted to give Professor Snape our findings as soon as possible."

"Good morning to you to Hermione. You stayed up way later than the rest of us and we thought that you could use the rest. I brought you some toast, eggs and bacon. There is plenty of time Hermione. After you eat you can give Professor Snape what we found out about the Manticores and Fire-crabs."

"Sorry Ron. Good morning and I do appreciate the extra sleep and thank you for the food. Has anyone gone to the Hospital wing and checked on how things are going for Harry?"

"Not yet. Ginny really wanted to but felt that with the extra work you put in that you should be the one to go or at least be there as well."

"Has anyone shown up yet? As in Sirius or you parents."

"I don't know. After I finished my breakfast I grabbed some food for you and came back here to wait until woke up."

"Okay I should go find Professor Snape."

"Is this something you want or need to do alone or would like some company?"

"Company would nice."

As Ron and Hermione made their way to the Potion Masters office hoping that he'd be there they came across Ginny.

"Hermione you're awake. Are you heading to the Hospital wing?"

"Not yet. I want to drop off our findings from our research to Professor Snape. But after doing that I plan on going to the Hospital wing. You are more than welcome to go with Ron and I to drop this off. If you'd rather go straight to the Hospital wing I understand."

"I don't want to go to the Hospital wing alone."

Hermione reached out for Ginny and pulled her into a hug. Ron then gave his sister a hug after Ginny and Hermione had pulled apart. The three Gryffindor's walked side by side, Hermione and Ron each had an arm wrapped around Ginny's waist. It felt to them that it had taken practically no time at all to reach their Potions Professor's office. Hermione knocked on the door and they waited.

The door to the office swung open to reveal an irritated Professor. Ron and Ginny had the strong desire to hide or run. Hermione cringed.

"Miss. Granger." Snape said through clenched teeth.

"The research is done sir. These two and several others helped me research through everything the school has on Manticores and Fire-crabs. I just wanted to drop off our findings…" Hermione said in a rush as she handed the Professor the sheet of parchment.

"I must say that I am impressed Miss. Granger."

"Um…Professor the potion you had made for Harry…"

"I do not know how well it worked or if it worked at all." Severus said as politely as he could.

"Well, we'll be going now." Hermione said softly, turned and left quickly with Ron and Ginny closely behind her.

As the trio entered the Hospital wing they saw the Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, Bill, Charlie, Sirius, Remus and Petunia were all there.

"Mum, dad." Ginny cried as she ran to their open arms.

"How is Harry?" Hermione asked nervously.

"Better than yesterday Miss. Granger." Professor Dumbledore answered.

"Professor I didn't see you. When you say 'better than yesterday', what does that mean exactly, sir?"

"It was very difficult for Harry yesterday. The potion that Professor Snape made had little or no effect. The healing potions are working but it seems when pain potions are administered it cancels out the healing potions. It seems that though the injuries Harry sustained Friday were caused from magical creatures, magical healing is stunted somehow. I understand that you offered to help Professor Snape with research."

"Yes and I got some unexpected but welcomed help with the research, we just gave Professor Snape our findings."

"Well now we should know something with confirmation soon then. In case you have forgotten or did not catch last night that we have visitors from two other wizarding schools with us this year for the Tri-Wizard Tournament. This evening the champions are to be selected it would be nice if the three of you would be there to support and cheer on Hogwarts Champion. I will understand of course if you'd rather stay with Harry instead of having dinner in the Great Hall."

"They would do better to have dinner in the Great Hall. They won't be able to do anything for Mr. Potter."

"Madam Pomfrey the sleep potions you have been giving Harry…"

"As of tonight if we have not found a way to keep the healing at a steady pace or an improved pace as well as relieving some pain I'm afraid that I'll have to put Mr. Potter in a magical coma. It is similar to what the Muggles chemical coma is, I believe that it what they call it. This will be the best thing for Mr. Potter. He will heal at a better rate and the pain will be at least bearable if not unnoticeable."

"What exactly is this coma thing about?" Asked Ron.

"I can explain it Ron. Let's go somewhere else so that I can. We can come back and sit with Harry later and hopefully by then Professor Snape will have something by then. I mean hopefully Professor Snape will have able to find something more substantial for Harry's recovery by then. If there is anything that will help in that research, Professor Snape and or Madam Pomfrey will find it."

After giving the Weasley's, Sirius and Remus a hug Hermione left the Hospital wing followed by Ron and Ginny. The three walked around for a while and then stopped under a tree near the lake with the Giant Squid. They sat there silently until Neville, Violet, Violet and the twins joined them. Hermione filled the new arrivals in on the most recent news concerning Harry as well as explaining what the Muggles Doctors call chemical coma and how it is similar to a magical one. The group chatted about various different things in an attempt to keep from stressing and obsessing about Harry. The chatter eventually ended up on the Tri-Wizard Tournament, Hogwarts potential Champion and if they even wanted to be present when the Champions are selected. They were definitely going to go to the Great Hall for dinner but were not sure if they were going to stay for the Champion selection. Then a debate about school support came about and ultimately ended up in all of them deciding to remain in the Great Hall for the Champion selection.

One the debate and final decision had been made Ron nudged Hermione just after spotting Draco not too far away.

"What?" Hermione asked trying not to sound annoyed.

"Draco is what." Ron said quietly as he pointed in the direction where Draco was standing.

"Oh." Hermione said as she stood up and casually walked over to where she had glimpsed Draco.

"How is Harry doing?"

"Not real good. They are having trouble with the healing potions and the pain potions. The healing potions are working just extremely slow but when they administer pain potions the healing effect becomes even slower and it doesn't seem to help with relieving the pain. Madam Pomfrey currently has Harry on sleep potions."

"Sleep potions are not to be messed with."

"Well after tonight if there isn't anything that will effectively heal and relieve pain Madam Pomfrey is going to put Harry in a magical coma. I do not like the sounds of that…I'm scared."

"It doesn't make any sense that they are having so much trouble healing Harry and doing their best to make him comfortable through the healing process. With how powerfully magical Harry is I am surprised that he hasn't been able to heal himself. I am not daft Hermione, Harry healed that burn that I had last year so I know he is powerful."

"Oh bloody hell! Why didn't I think of it before?"

"What are you going on about, Hermione?"

"Dudley and I could try I guess. With what Harry has said in the past…Dudley and I should be able to do it as well. We are related after all so of course the magic of Morgan le Fay runs through mine and Dudley's veins as well as Harry's. I wonder if it would work. I suppose that it wouldn't hurt to try unless it makes things worse for Harry. Oh…add in Harry's aunt…between the three of us there should be enough powerful magic…but Dumbledore is the only one that knows as far as staff goes that is."

"I don't think that Harry would hold a grudge against his family for trying to help heal him as well as trying to free him from the pain he is in. I'd give it a try if I were in your position."

"I will have to arrange it with Dumbledore. I know it shouldn't factor in at all but it will be in Dudley's best interest to not be associated with Harry or it come out that they are cousins. Oh that reminds me…Friday when Pansy…I hope you realize that I only said what I did and how I said it was to give you a cover for saving Harry."

"I do realize that Hermione. Although at first I wondered. You have been kind towards me and polite when talking to or about me…recently that is. And then Friday…"

"I'm so sorry about that. I meant to find a way to let you know that I didn't mean what I said or how I said it."

"Don't worry about it. I don't know if your friends have told you this or not…you worry too much, do you know that?"

"I do know that and they have mentioned it a few times. I can't help it...it's just part of who I am."

"That is true I guess. With what happened to Harry and his current condition squashes what should be something quite exciting, the Tri-Wizard Tournament. At the beginning of the year when it was first announced it was something to look forward to but now it seems ridiculous."

"I know what you mean. Well, I should go I wouldn't want anyone from your house to see that we are being friendly. Besides I should go talk to Dumbledore about Dudley, Petunia and myself giving it a shot to help Harry."

"Keep me updated on Harry. I really do hope that he recovers soon. I wish that I had been paying a little more attention to what was going on in class on Friday. At first it seemed as though he didn't even realize the damn creature was so close to him but I thought for sure that he knew it was there."

"Draco don't go there. You put the fire out...you prevented Harry from burning alive. Thank you for that. I mean it Draco, thank you for acting fast."

"I didn't care who saw me do it. It was the right thing to do and I think of Harry as a friend, a real friend even if he doesn't yet think of me as a friend. You didn't have to say anything don't get me wrong I do appreciate it. Even after what you said I still nearly got my ass kicked by my house but everyone in Slytherin, except for me, is quite scared of Dudley."

"Good that they are scared of him."

Draco smiled and then walked off in the opposite direction that Hermione had come from. Hermione turned around and returned to her friends. She knew they were going ask so she told them what Draco had wanted before they could ask. She then politely excused herself to find Dumbledore.

Hermione didn't have any luck tracking down the Headmaster. Hermione first tried for his office but had no clue what the password for the gargoyle was. She then checked the Professors' lounge but not one Professor was there. Hermione then figured that the Headmaster was probably down in the village with Karkaroff and Madam Maxime and decided that she'd have to wait until after or during lunch to run her idea by him.

After wondering around the grounds of Hogwarts inside and outside for quite a while Hermione could hear someone calling her name. When she looked up she saw Neville, Seamus and Dean a short distance away.

"Hermione I know that you are worried about Harry but you need to take care of yourself by eating meals." Dean said slightly humorously.

"What?"

"It's lunch time silly."

"Really? Thanks guys."

"No problem Hermione." Neville said waving off Hermione's thanks.

"I take it, Neville, that you informed Dean and Seamus about Harry."

"Yeah. They were going to ask you but I figured that you were getting tired of explaining it over and over."

"Thank you Neville."

Hermione walked back up to the castle and into the Great Hall with the three boys.

"Hermione." Ron said relieved.

"Seriously, Ron, you were worried."

"Of course I was worried Hermione. With how hard it is on Harry's friends it has to be so much more difficult for you and Ginny but it's got to be…"

"That's sweet Ron, thank you. I mean it." Hermione said as tears started to roll down her face.

Ron could not stand to see someone he cares about cry. It was always hard enough to keep it together whenever Ginny would cry but with Hermione it broke his heart to see her hurting so much and being able to stop the pain. Ron did do the one thing that he could to try and ease some of it, he hugged her.

"Fred, George this is not the time to make any wise cracks." Ginny scolded the twins as she saw them watching Hermione and Ron.

Ron glared at the twins but gave Ginny a 'thank you' smile as he slowly dropped his arms from around Hermione.

Hermione relished the hug from Ron until he dropped his arms from around her. Hermione nearly protested it. Instead she sat down at the table and gave her best attempt to eat something though she did not feel like eating. After noticing concerned looks from her friends and from Draco and Dudley from across the Great Hall, Hermione forced herself to eat a few mouthfuls of food but could not eat any more for fear of vomiting. A quick glance at the High Table where the staff sat and seeing Dumbledore, Hermione could wait no longer to talk to him so she got up and approached the High Table.

"Professor Dumbledore."

"Yes Miss. Ganger?"

"I need a word with you, sir."

"Follow me then."

Hermione followed Dumbledore through the staff entrance and exit and all the way to his office.

"So what is it that you wanted to talk to me about Miss. Granger?"

"Well I was thinking that if nothing works or helps as effectively as it should and as we hope…I would like to try something to help Harry. It turns out that I am Harry and Dudley's cousin, obviously through the Evans line. Well through the Evans line we are descendants of Morgan le Fay. If Dudley, Petunia and I were to try to see if we could heal Harry or at least do something to subside the pain…with us combined with Harry. Somehow channel the magic of Morgan le Fay that flows in our blood stream…"

"I know what you are thinking and I do not see a reason why not to give it a try. Although I would like to wait and see if Professor Snape and Madam Pomfrey find something in your research first and if that doesn't work then I will let you know as well as let Petunia and Dudley know. It would be something to see, and it would be something for should it work. The combining magic like that…I have not heard of it being done before, but that does not mean it hasn't been done before."

"When do you think that Professor Snape and Madam Pomfrey would know if they found something or not?"

"I do not know Hermione. I wish that I could tell you something, I really do. Either way I will let you know whether it is that they have not yet found anything or if they have or not."

"Thank you Professor."

"I have every faith that Harry will recover from this. I do however wish that it would be sooner rather than later and a lot less pain to go through."

Hermione smiled and then left the Headmasters office with the hope that she'd be able to find a way to keep herself distracted enough so that she wasn't feeling like she was going crazy waiting for word about whether or not a solution had been found from the research. Hermione tried to focus on other things including asking Ron about wizards' chess and to try to teach her. Ron was thrilled that Hermione was asking about wizards' chess and to have him teach her. It did not matter that he knew it was more about to keep her mind distracted from Harry, she thought about something that he, Ron, was really good at and that meant more to him than anything.

After a few hours of trying to keep her mind off of Harry they gave up. Ron suggested to Hermione that she go to the Hospital wing and sit with Harry.

"I don't know Ron. I mean I'm trying to not think about…"

"And that isn't going well at all Hermione. You might as well sit with him. I am sure that Ginny would like to sit with him as well and we both know that she doesn't want to be there alone. I'll even go with if you want."

"Thank you Ron and yes I want you to go with us."

"Then it's settled. Now we just need to find Ginny."

"Find me for what?" Ginny asked from behind her brother causing him to jump and scream like a girl.

"Ron was just saying that we needed to find you to see if you want to go the Hospital wing and sit with Harry for a while."

"You know I do." Ginny said.

"Do you think that Madam Pomfrey would let us in as well?" Asked Violet hopeful.

"I don't know but we can ask." Hermione answered looking at where Violet was standing with the twins and the rest of the fourth year boy's.

As they headed to the Hospital wing Mercedes was lingering in the hallway.

"Mercedes." Hermione said felling like a git for not letting the girl know.

"I haven't seen Harry since lunch Friday. Is he okay? I mean I have heard what happened but it doesn't seem like it should be taking so long."

"I'll tell you everything while we walk. We are headed for the Hospital wing."

Mercedes smiled. She was feeling more included all the time since the first time she talked to Harry. As the group began walking in Hermione was about to fill Mercedes in but Ginny got to it before she could. Hermione could not help but feel relieved that Ginny jumped in and brought Mercedes up to date. Hermione was not sure if she could keep telling others about how Harry was doing and what has been done and what is being done or at least what attempts have been made and what they may or may not be able to do. It was becoming too hard for her to not break when talking about it.

Madam Pomfrey looked out of her office as she heard the door squeak open. She had a disapproving look on her face at seeing the large group. Madam Pomfrey was sure that the students had not seen her and she wasn't going to say anything. Harry was the only one in the Hospital wing at the moment and she could not see the harm in letting the whole group stay in the Hospital wing. After they had been there for a while Madam Pomfrey could not be strict with the rules she had in place since they were being quiet. She could not tell if any of them had said a word the whole time they were there, since she could not tell she figured no one was talking or that they were being really quiet.

At fifteen minutes to dinner Madam Pomfrey left her office and walked over to where Harry and his friends were.

"Madam Pomfrey…sorry we should have asked…I hope its okay…"

"It's fine Miss. Granger. I was just coming over to let you all know that dinner will be in fifteen minutes."

"Oh, thank you." Hermione said.

It was obvious that everyone or nearly everyone had, had their fill the chatter was rising in volume almost to the point of one not being able to hear his or her thoughts.

"Settle down everyone." Dumbledore's voice boomed throughout the Great Hall.

Everyone instantly became silent and all eyes were on the Headmaster.

"If everyone would please stand so that the tables can be replaced by more adequate seating."

The instant that the student body had all stood up the tables disappeared and benches appeared along the walls, enough to accommodate the population. Without waiting for the Headmaster to say so all the students scrambled to the benches to take a seat, most in anticipation for what was to come next.

"Now the moment nearly all of us have been waiting for…the Champion selection. Once your name has been called out please walk through that door to await more information." Dumbledore said once the Great Hall was quiet.

With the exception of a few students, the Great Hall was filled with soft mutterings of excitement. Some were a little restless as they waited for the Goblet of Fire to be brought in.

As the Goblet of Fire was brought in Dumbledore dimmed the lighting in the Great Hall with a wave of his hand. Moments later blue flames could be seen erupting from the Goblet of Fire to change to an orange-ish color spitting out a piece of parchment with scorched edges.

"The Champion for Durmstrang is Viktor Krum." The Great Hall erupted into a loud round of cheers with the remaining students that had traveled to Hogwarts and had submitted their name the loudest of all.

Viktor Krum stood, walked through the Great Hall and through the door Dumbledore had indicated.

Once again blue flames could be seen erupting from the Goblet of Fire and again changed to the orange-ish color spitting out another piece of parchment with scorch marks around the edges.

"The champion for Beauxbatons is Fleur Delacour." The Great Hall erupted with loud shouts from the male populace with the remaining students from Beauxbatons softly crying because they had not been selected.

The students of Hogwarts though that it was inappropriate of them to express their disappointment so openly and not cheer or support their selected champion.

Fleur stood up, walked through the Hall and through the door that had been indicated. No sooner had Fleur disappeared through the door the Goblet of Fire spat out another piece of parchment, the last champion…Hogwarts champion. The tension in the air was thick, the anticipation high waiting to find out who the champion for Hogwarts was to be.

"The champion for Hogwarts is…Cedric Diggory." Hufflepuff house nearly deafened everyone in the Great Hall with how loud they cheered and screamed in support of their champion. Cedric also disappeared through the indicated door to await further information.

"Yes, yes we have our there champions. For the remaining students of Hogwarts as well Durmstrang and Beauxbatons I am sure that I as well as Headmaster Karkaroff and Headmistress Madam Maxime can count on you to fully support your champion and cheer him or her on throughout the tournament. By doing so you all will be part of something…" Dumbledore stopped speaking as he heard a few clearing his or her throats as well as the gasp that had swept through the Great Hall.

Dumbledore looking confused caught Professor Snape indicating something about the Goblet of Fire. Dumbledore turned around to see another piece of parchment scorched around the edges had been spat out. Dumbledore snatched the piece of parchment and looked at the name listed on it.

"H-Harry Potter." Dumbledore relatively softly muttered.

There were gasps of shock, there was muttering that Harry was not of age as well as how did do it. It was not just the students that were doing this the adults/staff of each school were as well. Though some of the staff of Hogwarts were trying to deny that Harry Potter's name had come out of the Goblet of Fire.

Dumbledore looked around the Great Hall. His eyes rested on Harry's friends for a moment and then he looked to Professors Moody, Snape, McGonagall and Hagrid and then lastly to Karkaroff and Madam Maxime. Dumbledore led the way through the door where the three champions were waiting for more information about the tournament.

"Professor's what's wrong?" Asked Cedric concerned with the looks of worry and borderline fear on his Headmasters face and the on the faces of his Professor's.

"A fourth name was spat out of the Goblet of Fire Mr. Diggory." Answered Professor McGonagall.

"What?" The three champions said.

"Who?" Asked Cedric.

"Harry Potter." Professor Snape answered indifferently.

"But how is zat possible?" Asked Fleur.

"That I would like to know as well." Said Karkaroff irritated.

"We all would like to know how that it is Karkaroff." Dumbledore stated.

"Well, where is zis boy? He should be questioned how he got past zis age-line of yours Dumbly-dorr."

"That is not a possibility Madam Maxime." Professor Snape informed.

"And what is the meaning of that Severus?"

"Mr. Potter is currently in the hospital wing slowly recovering a mishap in one of his classes."

"Zis boy must 'ave found a way to get his name in."

"Again not a possibility. No classes are held on the weekends, the class in which Mr. Potter was injured was late afternoon on Friday. He would not have been able to put his name in himself or get an older student to do so."

"How can you be so sure that this Potter did not leave the hospital wing in the night?"

"Please Igor spare me this nonsense. First of all Mr. Potter was in the hospital wing when Dumbledore announced how to submit you name for consideration to be a champion and secondly Igor, Mr. Potter has been given a sleep potion regularly to minimize extreme pain."

"You really expect us to believe zis?"

"It is the truth. Mr. Potter was severely burned. He is healing at an unprecedented slow rate and pain potions only slow the healing rate even more and don't do anything to alleviate any amount of pain and seems to do the opposite…increase the pain."

"You are rather defensive of this Harry Potter, Severus."

"Mr. Potter has not done anything wrong Igor."

"Please, Severus, calm down." Dumbledore said in a calm voice.

"I am sure that Madam Pomfrey will allow the both of you to see for yourselves the condition of young Mr. Potter."

"I agree Minerva."

"Regardless of zis boy's condition, he is not of age, he cannot compete."

"Mr. Crouch…Mr. Bagman you are the objective judges here…"

"The rules are clear, the Goblet of Fire is a binding commitment. Obviously Mr. Potter did not enter his name of his own accord or knowledge but he will compete. He does not have a choice. I am sorry but that is how it will be."

"Thank you Bartty." Dumbledore said quietly.

"Zis is ridiculous."

"That it is. Have the rules changed that much since the last tournament was held? I do not recall that the hosting school is allowed two champions."

"Zat is not fair Dumbly-dorr."

"We should have the opportunity to re-submit our students' names so that we also have two champions."

"Unfortunately Igor the Goblet of Fire has gone out. The champions have been selected it is too late to re-submit your students names. And it cannot be relit…it does not work that way and you know it." Said Ludo Bagman.

"So much for fairness." Igor Karkaroff spat.

"Am I the only one that sees what is going on here? Obviously someone put Harry's name in under a different school name to fool the Goblet of Fire. And whoever did it is no friend or ally of his. This tournament is not simple it is dangerous no matter what safety precautions are in place. Harry is a fourth year, he would not willingly or knowingly submit his name for this. I have known him long enough to know that he is an honest wizard, a really honest wizard so he would not have tried to put his name in under a different school name. You're having a fit for the stupidest reason. A fourteen year old wizards name pops out of a magical binding instrument when he has been in the hospital wing unconscious for a few days now. It seems to me that the welfare of Harry should be the priority as well as how the bloody hell did it happen? Who submitted Harry's name under a different school name without him knowing about it? Mr. Karkaroff and Madam Maxime, you were not here when we were informed that this legendary event was returning and this school to host it. Harry has had no interest in the tournament. He has been more interested in preoccupied with his girlfriend and friends. Neither of you know Harry, neither of you have even met him and you are trying to judge him, trying to put the blame on him without any proof. Take a look around and you will see everyone is just as confused as both of you are."

"Thank you for that speech Mr. Diggory." Dumbledore said proudly.

A/N: WOW! How about that another chapter with more than ten-thousand words and quickly? The next chapter is in the works and will up as soon as it is done.

I would like to know what you think of this chapter. It is nice to know how I am doing with this story. It helps to get the chapters done and up faster…er…most of the time anyway.

I apologize now for should there be more jumps. I will do my best to not appear to be going too fast when there are jumps…if there are jumps. If there are more I will put a WARNING at the beginning of the chapter and if possible an explanation as to why there is a jump. I feel the need to pick up the pace some…I feel as though I am going too slowly. There is still quite a bit to get through and get to.

Okay, okay…enough babble from me…I get it. I do hope that you have enjoyed or at least liked this chapter.