Thanks for your comments/reviews since my last update, and also, a shout-out to those who have added the story to your alert list, c2, or favourite list, it's almost as good as a review, 'ya know!
Posted February 8, 2014.
CHAPTER SUMMARY: A New Year's Eve party has Harry dealing with feelings and emotions he's not ready for; an incident within the Commonwealth has everyone scrambling; and the second task of the tournament leaves both Harry and Tommy enraged at the headmaster...
13. THE SECOND TASK
December 25, 2004 – February 21, 2005
December 25, 2004 / 25 Evening Star, 4E199
Considering the stuffy clothes they were required to wear, the dinner turned out to be the complete opposite of what Harry expected. The dinner turned out to be only the start of the festivities, as everyone was shuttled into the main ball room, and things became a lot less formal.
"Mr. Potter. We meet again."
"Your majesty," Harry said, with a bow of his head.
"It is wonderful you were able to join us. Though it is my understanding that perhaps my invitation went out at just the right time," said the Queen.
"I have to agree with that. I shouldn't speak poorly of someone, but really, the old man doesn't seem to know when to stop. He's obsessed with me."
"We are doing all we can to neutralize him. You may have been born an English citizen, but by every right you are one of my subjects, and therefore afforded all of my protection."
"How far will you go?"
"Oh. Your majesty, this is Tom Riordan."
"Yes, I know who he is," the Queen answered with a wry smile, "I do make it my business to know who is attending my social gatherings. I trust you are finding comfort with the life you now have?"
"Yes ma'am. Other than... the, uh, nonsense that happened earlier this week."
"Though you have to agree, it does have a silver lining, does it not?"
"As Harry and his other friends have told me, yeah. I'm not... ungrateful, it's just... it shouldn't have happened."
"Thing is, it means I have someone my own age to talk to now," said Mazhe, wading into the conversation. Unlike the others, he went with his mages' robes. He did stand out somewhat, but given Guardian Elaine was there along with a few others, he wasn't the only one in robes.
"Right."
"Your majesty, you remember Mazhe?"
"I do. You joined us at the Quidditch World Cup," the Queen remembered. "As I was saying, the Commonwealth is still looking into matters regarding your security, Harry. And I should tell you, you should receive an extra Christmas gift on the first of January, if my sources are correct—which they usually are. Given your age, and certain events which have taken place this year, it is only appropriate."
"What sort of thing?"
"You need to wait until the first of the month, then everything will be clear. Equally, the Commonwealth is about to flex its muscles with regard to your treatment. We grow tired of England's continued abuse of one of our subjects."
"That's good. Anything to make the old man squirm a little."
"Oh, I believe he might do a little more than squirm, along with that pompous windbag they have for Minister of Magic."
"But won't doing so put the Commonwealth at risk, your grace?" Justin asked. He had been mingling with others, but seeing who Harry was talking to, he quickly joined the conversation.
"Perhaps maybe. But you do know that we will not hesitate to use force, should it really be necessary," the Queen answered, resolve in her voice. "England must understand, we will go to great lengths to protect Harry. I do understand his training and education are progressing with haste."
"It is, ma'am," Harry answered.
"That's all you need to worry about. And should things become too difficult at Hogwarts, you most certainly have the right to continue your study independently, and only attend the tasks of the tournament. My Privy Council has read the rules of the tournament front to back, and there is nothing saying you must remain in the castle at all, given you are not a student."
"I'll keep that in mind."
It was late in the evening before they all returned to the Ragnar. Harry had to admit, he'd had a great time, and by the looks of his friends, they had as well. It was very clear Queen Susan loved to socialize, and from what he gathered from other people at the party, it was something she did quite frequently. Most likely, he would be invited again, and in all honesty, Harry had no issue with that. Sure, people were interested in meeting with him, and talking to him, but he never felt pressured or uncomfortable. They respected who he was, and that was all there was to it—unlike at Hogwarts.
December 31, 2004 / 31 Evening Star, 4E199
Harry had missed the Yule Ball at Hogwarts, and in some ways he did feel bad about missing out on a wonderful opportunity to mingle and meet with the other champions, and students from the other school. Commander Dawson came up with the perfect solution: a New Year's Eve party on board the ship, open to the students of all the schools. The Virtual Projection Room would be converted into an appropriate space—a small tropical island, to contrast the rather cold weather outside.
Dumbledore had most certainly protested the idea, but his deputy readily agreed, with the stipulation that some of the professors attended as well to act as chaperones. With that agreed to, the announcement was made at breakfast on December 27. People were advised to dress comfortably as this was not a formal event, and to also bring swim wear, as the theme was a tropical beach.
When people began arriving by port key just before 8 o'clock, Harry was somewhat surprised. He'd expected a few people maybe, but by the time things got under way, it looked like the majority of people staying over the holidays had chosen to come. It also looked like the majority of both visiting schools were present, as was their headmaster and headmistress, respectively. Harry still didn't know what to think of Igor Karkaroff, the man seemed off for some reason. Dumbledore had demanded to attend, but there was no way in hell that was ever going to happen, and Professor McGonagall attended in his place, along with Professor Snape and Hagrid—Hagrid insisted on attending, when he found out Madame Maxime was going to be attending. Unlike the students, the professors retained their usual attire, considering they were there as chaperones. Harry also noticed a good number of the ship's crew were present—being on board long enough, he did recognize some of the faces.
The room had been turned into a large tropical island, surrounded by warm water. The water was not deep, and included a sandbar leading to a smaller island. By the detail that went into it, Harry guessed this setup had been used before, it was brilliant. The sky had been a light pink hue when things had started up, simulating a late sunset that brought darkness by 9:30. There were dozens of circular tables set up with comfortable chairs around it, and for those wanting something a little more intimate, there were dozens more set up in a booth configuration. There were even seats set up in the shallow water, letting people sit up to their necks—or less if they wanted, the seat was adjustable.
"Harry, Harry, Harry," said Fred.
"Our honorary brother," said George. They had found Harry submerged up to his shoulders in the water, a floating table in front of him supporting a cluster of mugs. Mazhe and Tommy sat on either side of him, Tommy nursing a bottle of beer.
"What can I do for you gents?" Harry grinned.
"Just wondering,"
"Who would we talk to about fireworks?" George finished.
"Um, you guys really think that's a good idea?"
"Why not?"
"Find Commander Dawson, he's the one who organized this. But I doubt they'll let you guys set off fireworks in here," Harry answered.
"Thanks, Harry!"
"It'll be brilliant, we promise!" The pair took off, splashing water behind them.
"They're gonna blow themselves up one day," said Mazhe, with a laugh.
"They already have, 'least according to Ron," said Harry, "Always conducting experiments in their room back at the Burrow, drive Mrs. Weasley half-round the twist sometimes."
"They're good for a laugh, that's for sure," said Tommy, "Gave Malfoy something to think about a couple weeks ago."
"I think, if they keep going at it, they'll make themselves a fortune one day. You guys have seen Zonko's right?"
"Yeah, of course," Mazhe remembered. Tommy only nodded.
"The twins want to open their own joke shop one day. I think Mrs. Weasley would throw a fit, but that's beside the point. Do what you love and all that, right?" He picked up his mug of butterbeer and took a swig. He set it down, seeing Cedric approaching.
"Thanks for the invite, Harry."
"Glad you could come. It was a shame I missed the ball, what I've heard, it was smashing."
"It was. May I join you guys?"
"Of course!" Harry indicated a spot on the opposite side of the floating table.
"This is extraordinary magic."
"Virtual Projection Room," Harry answered, as Cedric took a seat and adjusted it, "We use it for training in the morning."
"Training? Right, seen you guys a month ago, jogging around the lake."
"Surprised no one else has commented about that actually, y'know, me being the boy-who-lived and all that nonsense. Oh... care for something to drink? Butterbeer, regular beer, spirits, firewhiskey..."
"A butterbeer's fine."
Harry touched the table with his finger, and another full mug appeared.
"Harry... there you are," said Justin, taking up a spot beside Mazhe.
Cedric regarded Tommy a moment.
"I remember most of you from the Quidditch World Cup, but... you're the newcomer then, I reckon."
"Tommy Riordan."
"Good to meet you." A firm handshake. Cedric glanced over at the shore, and spotted Viktor. He waved him over.
"A meeting of champions, then," Harry grinned. "Where's miss Delecour?"
"Around somewhere, I think."
"That her over there?" Tommy pointed to a blonde-haired young woman speaking with a member of the crew.
"Think so."
"Harry Potter," Viktor said, simply.
"Viktor. Cedric called you over, but d'you mind doing a favour and inviting miss Delecour to join us?" Harry pointed Fleur out to the burly Bulgarian.
"Of course," said Viktor, gruffly. He trudged off, making the table rock a little bit. He was only gone a minute, and returned with the Beauxbatons student.
"'arry, good to see you," said Fleur.
"Likewise. Come join us."
"It iz a pleasure!" Fleur claimed the seat beside Cedric, and Viktor claimed the seat beside her.
"I guess I should say thanks for warning me about the dragons, Harry," said Cedric.
"Did you guys know about it beforehand?"
"I did," Viktor answered, "The headmaster spoke to me two veeks before the task."
"As did I," said Fleur, her accent quite heavy. Harry momentarily looked over at Tommy, and could tell he was having a hard time sitting still.
"Didn't realize cheating was a part of the tournament," said Mazhe, shaking his head.
"It iz rampant in ze history, yes," Fleur answered.
"So it's okay to cheat? Just like it was okay for a Polyjuiced Death Eater to put my name in the goblet, even though I wasn't anywhere near Hogwarts."
Harry let out a sigh.
"Forgive me for snapping, just, Gods, I so want to strangle a few people."
"Okay. I know there's a rule about teachers not being allowed to help you guys, but... is there anything against helping each other?" Mazhe questioned.
"Vell... no, but... vhy vold ve do that? Ve are opponents, are ve not?"
"Once the task begins, yes, but not to hurt each other. Isn't this also about making new friends?"
"'arry does 'ave a point," Fleur agreed.
"Nothing saying we can't look out for one another," Cedric agreed, "This whole tournament is a bit dodgy I reckon, what with Harry's name coming out of it... the headmaster should have just redrawn."
"For real?" Tommy furrowed his brow, while Mazhe looked furious.
"It's what dad says," Cedric answered, "It's too late now, of course... I think once he extinguished the goblet, the participants were final."
"I'll need to speak to miss Connor tomorrow, I think," said Harry, bitterly.
"Couldn't they have changed the tasks?" Mazhe wondered, "I dunno, make it a chess competition, uh,exploding snap, is it, and a snowball fight or something's... make it less-dangerous and redraw."
"Could."
"The scary thing is, Voldemort planted Barty Crouch Jr. here to make sure I won the tournament," said Harry, darkly, "The Triwizard Cup was going to be turned into a Portkey."
"Did zey say where?" Fleur asked.
"No. I guess that bit wasn't finalized yet, but Gods..."
"Could've taken you anyvhere," said Viktor, shaking his head.
"This is the Dark Lord we're talking about... or at least his servants. Made a royal mess of things at the end of October... it's why Tommy's with us now. Those of you who haven't met, this is Tommy."
"It iz a pleasure," said Fleur. Acting the perfect gentleman, Tommy kissed the offered hand. He then shook hands with the burly Bulgarian.
"I vold be villing to vork together, given the circumstances," said Viktor.
"Agreed," said Fleur.
"And agreed," said Cedric.
"Y'know... these guys could come join us in the mornings," Tommy suggested.
"Our training run?"
"Vot sort of training?"
"We do a jog around the lake—though now, it's in here," said Tommy, shaking his head, "Still can't believe what this can do. Anyway, after that we do some stretches and shit like that."
"Inside? Count me in," said Viktor. The others quickly acquiesced.
As it grew closer to midnight, there came a sudden pop from an area a fair distance away from the island. A projectile soared into the air, to bloom into a shower of orange sparks, and a resulting louder BANG. Clearly, the twins had talked them into using fireworks.
"Thirty minutes!" came an amplified voice.
They had long since left the water, Harry feeling much like a wrinkled prune. He had sent Dobby to fetch a change of clothes for everyone, and now they were dry and warm, clustered in a group around one of the larger tables.
"Harry! Can we join you?" Hermione had at last come over with Ron.
"Hermione, of course you can! C'mon, sit." Harry indicated two empty seats. They were quickly occupied by the newcomers.
"This has been a wicked party, thanks for inviting us!" said Ron, enthusiastically.
"It wasn't my idea. The ship's XO made the suggestion, I thought it was brilliant."
"XO?"
"Executive Officer of the ship, he's just below the captain," Justin explained. "Really surprised they opened it up so widely to civilians, though."
"We're here, aren't we?" Harry pointed out.
"Yeah but you're special. Letting three schools worth of strangers on board..." Justin shook his head.
"Just glad they did it, it's been excellent." Harry thought for a moment. "Y'know, we should think about doing something like this after the second task."
"Another party?"
"Celebrate togezer? 'arry is right, why not?" Fleur questioned.
"Can't hurt, right? Sure. But it has to include everyone, just like tonight," said Cedric.
"Yeah, of course."
"Fifteen minutes!" came the amplified voice. At that, several bottles of champagne appeared on the table, along with glasses for everyone. Three large platters also appeared at the centre of the table, containing cheese, crackers, and vegetables.
Harry had to grin, seeing Hagrid dancing with Madam Maxime.
"What?" Mazhe asked.
"I think Hagrid's in love," Harry answered, pointing the pair out discreetly.
"They've been dancing together most of the night, mate."
"Good on him, all I have to say. He's got a great heart. I'll definitely miss his classes next year."
"You are leaving 'ogwarts?" Fleur asked.
"He's been trying to do that since the end of first year," said Justin, "Dumbledore keeps finding ways to keep him here."
"Zat is not very nice. We make up our on minds where we go to school. I am certain Beauxbatons would love to 'ave you, 'arry."
"That's not the issue, Fleur. It wouldn't matter where I wanted to go, Dumbledore keeps finding ways of dragging me back. I don't want to speak badly of Hogwarts, but the place isn't safe for me, it never has been. This tournament being case-in-point."
"The headmaster's actions are criminal," said Viktor, with a scowl.
"We know. The Commonwealth will be taking action in the new year, I can tell you that much. The ICW won't like it very much, but too bad. Harry's a citizen of Valicadia, and given who he is, a lot of extra precautions are being taken to make sure he's ready to fulfil his destiny," said Justin, snatching a rolled up slice of ham off of one of the platters.
"Vot sort of destiny?" Viktor asked.
"I can't get into it, but it deals with Voldemort. I know he's going to come back—I mean, we think that's the whole reason I was illegally entered in this tournament. They have a way to bring him back, but..."
"Zey need you to do it," Fleur guessed, to which Harry slowly nodded.
"That's about the size of it."
"Five minutes! Fill your glasses, everyone!" came the amplified voice, "Everyone please stand if you're sitting."
Glasses were being filled with white bubbly, while everyone got to their feet. The anticipation was palpable, as the time dwindled away. Harry had not really celebrated the new year before, but he already knew he would do it again. The energy was almost intoxicating.
"And ten... nine... eight... seven..." The enormous crowd quickly joined in. "Three... two... one..."
"HAPPY NEW YEAR!" A thunderous cry went up, as the sky seemed to bloom overhead with a brilliant display of fireworks.
January 1, 2005 / 1 Morning Star, 4E200
It was a late morning for just about everyone in the suite. The party had went into the early hours of the morning, with the last of the guests being port keyed away just after 3 am. Therefore, it was going on 11 am before anyone stirred. Harry made his way into the dining room, to find only Mazhe present. Brunch was already set out, being kept warm by a warming charm. There were also several potions clustered at the centre of the table. Harry knew there would be a few of the group who would need it.
"Hey."
"'morning," Harry grinned. "Gods, a good night all in all, I think."
"Agreed. Never attended anything like that before. I know the Jarls hold social events now and then, but... never with that many people."
"I had a great time last night. And the other champions are in agreement that we should do it again when the second task is finished."
"Good that you guys are working together. Didn't seem right that you would all see yourselves as opponents and nothing more."
"Agreed."
Harry fixed himself a plate of scrambled eggs, two slices of ham, and a bagel with cream cheese.
"Have to wonder what Dumbledore will think of all this."
"Pissed."
Both of them turned to find Eric stepping into the room.
"He demanded to be allowed to attend last night. Captain O'Toole basically told him to fuck off."
Harry had to smirk.
"Good on him."
"Actual to AIC immediately," came a voice on the speaker below the phone.
Eric arched an eyebrow.
"O'Toole is supposed to have the day off."
"Fuck, not so loud." Tommy sat down rather heavily, looking like he wanted to hold his head with both hands.
"Hangover cure," said Eric, pointing to a cluster of bottles. "Beware, they're especially nasty."
"Long as it works." Tommy snatched one of the bottles and quickly consumed its contents.
"AIC, COM, recommend condition three throughout the ship," the speaker squawked.
"Shit," Eric cursed, "Something's up."
"Condition three?"
"Condition yellow. Been a while since we've had that happen. Gotta go, guys." Eric left the room, and the suite door opening moments later confirmed he had left the suite.
"Still doesn't explain what it means," Harry muttered.
"Threat to the Commonwealth. Whether it's internal or external, the military goes into readiness state," Justin explained, as he stepped into the room.
"You mean terrorism," Tommy guessed, to which Justin gave a brief nod.
"Yeah, exactly. Unfortunate, but we get those groups of people as well, who want to stir up shit and cause misery for everyone else."
Justin pulled up a seat, and began preparing a plate for himself.
"Most of the time though we're able to figure out what people are up to, and catch them before people get hurt."
"Sounds like the NSA," said Tommy.
"National Security Administration. Yeah. We tap into their satellites. But we also have magic on our side, so surveillance of that sort of crap is pretty easy."
Further discussion was interrupted, as a pair of owls flew in through the window, to land in front of Harry. Both of them brought letters, which he quickly retrieved. Both of them did not wait for a reply, but headed back out the window.
The first letter bore the seal of the Ministry of Social Services, while the second bore the Gringotts seal. He guessed they were related, and so opened the one from the ministry first.
Mr. Harry Potter
Care of HMS Ragnar
Mr. Potter,
This type of action is not normally taken. The laws and regulations regarding a witch or wizard's legal age are in place for some very good reasons. That said, it is also understood you are by no means an ordinary wizard; both the Commonwealth and Wizarding England are in agreement on this.
When your name came out of the Goblet of Fire, directly in contravention of additional rules set in place surrounding the tournament, put in place by Hogwarts' own headmaster, this has created a rather unusual circumstance. Although you are only fourteen years old, it is clear that Wizarding England now sees you as an adult by legal standard.
This, naturally, does not mean they would outright recognize such a thing, but we are not discussing English Wizarding law, but our own. Therefore, as of January 1, 2005, we at the ministry do certify that Mr. Harry James Potter is now legally an adult in the eyes of the law. This, of course, also affects a number of financial matters, and a letter from Gringotts should be finding its way to you shortly.
Now that that business is out of the way, don't feel we are pushing you out the door, and will stop providing assistance and guidance. You are legally an adult, but you are still fourteen. Myself and Alice will always be there for you.
Best wishes, and we'll have a nice chat in a few days when we return to work,
(a signature was scrawled here)
William P. Jarvis,
Supervisory caseworker, Ministry of Social Services
(A second signature was scrawled here, as well as an official-looking stamp)
Ross K. Sanders, Minister of Social Services
Harry grinned madly as he put the parchment down.
"Good news?" Mazhe asked.
"Oh, very. They've made me legally an adult because of the tournament."
"Guys... sorry to interrupt your late breakfast, but we have a problem." Brandon now stood at the doorway leading out to the common room.
"What's going on?"
"I've been instructed to escort you guys by floo powder back to the College of Winterhold."
"Something bad?"
"We don't know, my orders are from her majesty."
"C'mon, guys," Harry said, standing up and pocketing the two letters.
Within a matter of minutes, they had regrouped in Harry's set of rooms in the Hall of Attainment. Given he was still in a tee shirt and boxers, Harry changed into his mages' robes.
"What's going on, Brandon?" Harry dared ask.
"Twenty seven people were exposed to Anthrax sometime yesterday afternoon in Trevelyan. All but five are dead."
"All in one place?" Justin asked.
"No. Yes. Sort of. They all received letters."
"What is Anthrax?" Harry asked.
"Bad shit," Tommy answered, scowling.
"Sums it up quite nicely," Brandon agreed, "It's a serious disease caused by something that resembles fungal spores. The symptoms are quite nasty, and it can be fatal."
"And they sent the spores in the mail," Mazhe guessed.
"Exactly. The government's gone into elevated security, and important people are being taken to secure locations."
"Such as me," said Harry.
"Yes."
"For how long?"
"Until the Ministry of Defence decides the threat is neutralized."
"Your mail system doesn't look for anthrax spores?" Tommy asked.
"The regular mail system, yes. But not if it was sent by owl."
"Someone who's magical then."
"No," said Justin, shaking his head, "Anyone can access a post owl. But that's the thing, they're a bit expensive."
"And impossible to track," said Brandon. "The letters on the other hand, the Department of Information will be very interested in those. We leave lots of shit behind when we mail a letter. And if they're magical, even better."
Harry ran a hand through his hair.
"Gods. I... guess I should have expected that. You know, it doesn't matter where you're from... what flag you were born under... everyone, every place has its element."
"So true, Harry," said Brandon, "Not even we are lily-white."
He only needed to look across the table at Tommy to realize how close to home that statement truly was. His mobile rang.
"Lieutenant Commander McAllister. Yes... yes, we're safe. ...I'll make sure that's done... for real? Shit. All right, thank you." He hung up.
"Now what?" Justin said.
"Fifty letters were sent out in Erwin. Twenty in White Gate—a medium sized research community in the Arctic. No deaths, but lots of people in the hospital." Brandon directed his wand at the fireplace, and muttered a spell. The fire instantly went out, as it shimmered red for a moment.
"Floo lockout."
"Yeah. I need not say, do not open anything you get by owl."
"A little late," said Harry, pulling out the two letters he had received only a short while before. Brandon went to snatch both of them, but did not, recognizing the seals on them.
"No, they wouldn't have been infected. The letters themselves were written on regular paper, just the words, 'Happy new year, C'."
Mazhe scowled. "If that's a new years' prank, it's not very funny."
"Agreed. Piss on this, I'm taking my broom out."
"We're told to keep you close," said Brandon.
"I'm going flying. I strongly doubt whoever it is can get to us here." He retrieved his broom from his trunk, and was out the door before there could be further protests, with Mazhe quickly following.
It was nearly dark by the time they returned. Harry looked exhausted, but otherwise calm.
"Where did you guys go?"
"To Shor's Stone and back," Harry answered, "A good flight, I think. Sorry if I snapped earlier, I just needed to blow off a bit of steam."
"No, it's all right," said Brandon, "Keep forgetting the extra security here. I guess this is pretty much your back yard."
"Something like that," said Harry, with a grin, as he again took a seat at the table.
"Sirius and Remus have taken the children to a secret location in the Caribbean. They send word to 'sit tight until things blow over'," said Justin. "We debated about having Dobby bring them here, but given the space is tight as it is, your godfather assured us they'll be perfectly safe."
"You received two letters this morning, did you not?" Mazhe reminded him.
"Right." Harry at last turned his attention to the second letter, thankful for the second distraction.
Mr. H. J. Potter,
Care of HMS Ragnar,
Commonwealth of Valicadia
Dear Mr. Potter,
Complying with a directive from the Government of Valicadia, Gringotts bank has reinstated your access to vault 678, which houses your school trust fund, and some contents from vault 934, which is that of your estate left behind by your mother and father. You will find keys to both vaults enclosed with this letter.
Additionally, and also by directive of the Government of Valicadia, you are currently the only individual with rights to access either vault. Additional keys to both vaults have been invalidated, and the last known individuals holding those keys notified accordingly.
Yours,
Korwathten,
Director, Gringotts, Trevelyan Branch
"And Dumbledore gets another black eye," Harry smirked, "By his own hand this time."
Albus Dumbledore was not a very happy headmaster at the moment. The four letters now laying open on the desk in front of him had just soured his morning and in no small way. All four of them had legal ramifications, and all four of them were related to the target of his obsession lately: Harry Potter. Obsession? No, he was only acting for the greater good... right?
Albus Dumbledore
Headmaster, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry
Headmaster Dumbledore,
Given the continued liberties taken against her majesty's ward and those close to him, the Commonwealth is moving to increase its presence within your school, to better provide security, with hopes of preventing an incident such as that which happened to Mr. Riordan (nee Conlon) at the end of the fall term.
Members of her majesty's Royal Marines will be taking up stations and patrols in the school so long as Mr. Potter is in attendance. Any interference with this order will result in us withdrawing Mr. Potter from the school.
It must be stressed that Mr. Potter will not be attending Hogwarts in September. Alternate schooling has already been arranged, and your input regarding such is neither desired nor welcomed.
A further and final note, it is ordered that you have no contact with Mr. Potter unless said contact is for official matters: education and class material, or the Triwizard tournament. Both of these exceptions will expire with the conclusion of the Triwizard tournament. It is ordered that, during those exceptions, Mr. Potter will not be in your presence without supervision for both parties. In other words, you will have a member of your faculty present during such meetings. Mr. Potter reserves the right to decline such a meeting, or to defer it.
You may ignore these directives at your own peril.
Abagaile Wentworth
Attorney General of Valicadia
More foreign soldiers on English soil. And the Wizengamot was already up in arms about the Ragnar! His complaints to the ICW were still falling on deaf ears as it was—though he wouldn't admit they no longer trusted him. The frightening thing was, it was opening the door to a very dangerous scenario. If the Commonwealth chose to actually invade, by the time they realized what was going on, it would be too late.
The No-contact order was another blow. Given Harry was always in the company of at least one of those black-clad soldiers, it would be almost impossible to circumvent the order. If anything, Valicadia was thorough.
Of course... they had declared Harry off limits, but not his friends. He was still on the fence about which he would use in the upcoming second task. It was evident Mazhe was by far Harry's best friend and then some, with Mr. Fraser being a close second.
The new man... boy... Dumbledore could no longer decide how to address him, considering the accident just before the holidays. Mr. Conlon was as strong a supporter and friend as the others by this point. Add to it the fact he was by now much closer to Harry's age, it was a strong factor. Then of course, the accident provided the perfect chance to catch him.
Headmaster Dumbledore,
By order of the Ministry of Social Services, be it known that the individual known as Harry James Potter has been granted Early Adult Rights, effective today, January 1st, 2005. Attorneys are presently visiting the Improper Use of Magic office at your Ministry with a similar directive, and it is expected that your Ministry comply with this order. He will be visited by a curse-breaker sometime during the day so that the Trace may be removed from his person.
Yours,
Doris Bishop
Ministry of Justice
Improper Use of Magic Office
As if things weren't complicated as it was. The Commonwealth was bending over backward to protect a boy who shouldn't be their business in the first place. Given the way the Ministry was and its opinion of Harry, Madam Hopkirk would probably just comply without a thought. He adjusted his half-moon spectacles, and plucked another lemon drop out of the candy dish resting on the corner of his desk. Yet another small avenue for leverage had been snatched from his grip.
Headmaster,
This letter is to inform you that your keys accessing vaults 678 and 934 have both been invalidated, as the access has been revoked and returned to their rightful owner.
Ragnorak
Gringotts, London Branch
Dumbledore wanted to pinch the bridge of his nose, like he'd seen Severus do so many times. It was a natural course of events, given the boy had been declared legally an adult. All that wealth, snatched from his—or the Order's—grasp. The Potters had been incredibly wealthy, with a worth in the millions of galleons, and likely more than that, with the investments. The money could have funded a good many different initiatives and projects, all of which moving toward dealing with the Dark Lord.
Of course, with the current plot being so easily foiled by those blasted soldiers... Dumbledore was still at a loss on what to do. Voldemort had to be resurrected in the spring, or the timetable would be in jeopardy. If Harry were to see the Dark Lord return, perhaps he would be more inclined to stay, and resign to his fate. He'd sent Severus with a missive to Pettigrew over the holidays, but thus far nothing positive had come of it. Fawkes ruffled his feathers and let out a low, mournful cry.
"It is for the greater good, my friend."
Professor Dumbledore,
A series of terrorist attacks have played out within the Commonwealth overnight. Twenty-eight deaths, and nearly a hundred suffering severe medical complications have resulted.
You are being informed of this because at this time, Harry and his friends have been moved to a safe location, and will remain there until this scenario comes to its end.
If a mandatory tournament-related event comes up before the situation has been declared safe, arrangements will be made so that Harry may participate. That said, we would appreciate some advance notice. Naturally, we are aware of the date of the second task already.
Sincerely,
Tyrone Dawson
Executive Officer,
HMS Ragnar
Dumbledore was both angry and somewhat glad of the Commonwealth's actions here. They had likely moved anyone of importance to a place of safety. They acted exactly as a Muggle government would—much like the United States had in September of 2001. The American Department of Magic had lots to say with regard to that particular incident, with advice to adopt similar procedures to protect the senior government heads.
If the previous letters hadn't made it clear of their position, the last one most certainly did. The Commonwealth considered Harry Potter a person of great importance, and would go to great lengths to ensure his safety and survival. What would happen when the time came for him to face Voldemort?
January 23, 2005 / 23 Morning Star, 4E200
It had taken well over two weeks before the Commonwealth finally tracked down the individual responsible for the mass mailing of Bacillus anthracis endospores. Unfortunately, the individual had swallowed a lethal poison mere moments before being captured, and died without any sort of explanation. A search of his body came up empty, but just the same, the Department of Information was asked to dig into the man's life. By all accounts, however, the man had acted alone.
The routine for Harry and his circle had been significantly changed during their sequestering. Without access to the Virtual Projection Room, the morning training session had to be modified. Skyrim's winter was downright brutal that year, and all were in agreement that exercising outside was really not that important to risk frostbite and hypothermia. The winter was uncharacteristically cold; even Tolfdir and the Arch-mage were in agreement to that fact.
Their training session, therefore, consisted of mostly stretching and strength training. The effort was certainly starting to pay off; Harry was gaining more bulk, and all of it muscle. Thinking back, he realized he looked much like Mazhe had at fifteen. Just before their forced retreat back to Skyrim, Harry was easily able to keep up with Tommy on their run half-way around the virtual lake. His stamina had grown enormously, something that would mean the difference in a fight, whether it be magical or not.
Back to the point in the story, Harry and his friends at last arrived back in their suite aboard the Ragnar by floo powder just before lunch time. Commander Dawson was waiting, along with a few others.
"Mr. Potter. Welcome back."
"Thank you, sir," Harry answered.
"You'll find there have been a few changes since you were sequestered, Harry."
"Will. And Bill! What are you doing here?"
Harry was surprised to find the eldest Weasley sitting on one of the couches.
"Here in an official capacity, actually," Bill answered.
"You did get the letter we sent you just before everything got stuffed a the beginning of the month?" Will questioned.
"Yeah. Thank you... though I don't know how much weight it'll have here in England."
"There's more to it. You know about the restriction on underage magic?"
"Yeah, of course."
"Given you're legally an adult, we can remove the Trace from you. That requires the services of a curse-breaker and warder."
"As in, me," said Bill.
"Right. You work for Gringotts."
"We thought you would be more comfortable if he performed the work, given you already know who he is," Will explained.
"I appreciate that."
"What's this 'trace'?" Tommy asked.
"It's a charm put on under aged witches and wizards at the end of their first year of magical education. Children aren't normally allowed to do magic outside of school. If they do, the trace alerts the Improper Use of Magic office—it's the same both in the Commonwealth and the British Ministry of Magic. In our case, the Commonwealth makes an investigation as to why, and it can result in a nasty fine for the parents," Will explained.
"But the child broke the rule," Mazhe challenged, "Why would the parents get in trouble?"
"Because it's the parents' responsibility to keep the child in check."
"Hm. Interesting," said Bill, "Our Ministry would first send out a warning. Another incident, the child would be expelled and have their wand snapped by the Ministry."
"Just for doing magic out of school." Tommy shook his head. "What happens to them after that?"
"Banned from using magic. They become something like a squib. You know about those?"
"Yeah. I sort of know how they feel."
"A good lot of non-magical people in the Commonwealth have similar feelings, it's not unnatural," said Will. "Get some extreme cases sometimes where someone lashes out from jealousy. It usually doesn't end well."
"No shit. Someone would need a lot of balls... or they're touched in the head."
"Or they're strung out on a lot of drugs. Police responding to a scene like that, it's generally a mop-up. Our office gets called in to handle crisis-management."
"Right. That's going way off of what we're supposed to be doing here," said Harry, "Let's just... well..."
"Come sit down and we can get started." Bill indicated the couch opposite.
"Now... Mr. Riordan. We have a piece of news regarding your family."
"They were, uh, recovered, I guess."
"They were," Will replied, "Given the weather and so on, a burial won't be held until the spring. We'll make sure you and your nieces will be able to attend it."
"Appreciate that." A storm of emotions crossed the young man's face, but he held them in check.
"The Department of Information was considering making alterations to your Muggle records and so on, but it would require too much time and manpower, when it's just as easy to put you in a disguise and keep you hidden," Will explained.
"Got no interest in going back now, 'cept for the funeral. Tell them don't waste their time on me. My life in the U.S. died with my pop and my brother."
"I'm sure Mrs. T. will be pleased to hear that," said Brandon, "I know they were still considering it."
"Right. That should just about do it," said Bill, as a final violet shade momentarily engulfed Harry. There was a distinctive 'pop'.
"Brilliant. Thanks, Bill."
During lunch the following day, Cedric ventured over from the Hufflepuff table.
"Welcome back, Harry."
"Thanks."
"Have you solved your egg yet?"
"No. How about you guys?"
"It was Fleur who came up with the solution. Take your egg for a bath." He grinned, and was gone, before Harry could respond.
"Take the egg for a bath? He's barking," Ron muttered.
"Well, if it was Fleur who solved first... guess there's only one way to find out. It'll have to wait until after dinner. I'll use the Ragnar's training pool."
"Might want to put up a few silencing charms, just in case."
"He knows that already," Justin smirked, "He's been hexed at least twice by members of the crew for that God-awful racket."
"Seeing a lot more of the Commonwealth's soldiers. Harry, what happened?" Hermione questioned.
Indeed, even as they had lunch, there were four soldiers stationed in the Great Hall: two at either end. They wore woodland camouflage pattern uniforms, and though it appeared they were unarmed, to Harry and those who lived within the Commonwealth, this was a false illusion.
"You guys know what anthrax is?" Justin questioned.
Ron stared at him blankly, while Hermione slowly nodded. Being Muggle-born, she most certainly knew about it.
"It's something that can float easily in the air, and if someone breathes it, the resulting illness can be fatal. New Year's Day, a bunch of people in a number of cities within the Commonwealth became very sick from it, some of them died. The government activated a protection protocol, which protects high-level government officials, the Prime Minister, and the Queen. Harry is also on that list."
"So that's why you were away for so long," Ron guessed.
"Yeah, pretty much. We were sent back to Skyrim, given there's only one way to get there and it's warded to the teeth. While that was going on, I received a few letters, one of which notified me I have legal adult status, among other things."
"The Commonwealth also sent several notices to the headmaster giving him an earful about a few things, and letting him know of the extra security. If the old man insists on doing little to nothing as far as security is concerned, then we will do it for him. I think the Queen has dispatched sixty or so Royal Marines to keep an eye on the castle," said Justin, "I'm sure that really made his day."
His eyes flicked over to the head table, and no surprise, the old man was watching the group.
"And I'm not okay with any of it," said Harry, frowning, "I hate it that they're bending over backward over me. They're meant to protect the Commonwealth, not a single individual."
"They're at the direction of the Ministry of Defence, Harry. They do as is required, and if that means protecting a single individual, then that's what they do," Justin answered.
"Well, I'm still not okay with it."
"Can't wait 'till Malfoy tries something with them, then," Ron smirked.
"Ron! Get serious," Hermione scolded.
"He tries anything, it'll be his worst mistake," said Justin, "They'll give Dumbledore two choices: expel him, or the Commonwealth takes him into custody. That simple."
"But this is an English school," said Dean Thomas, "The Commonwealth can't just—"
"But they will," Justin cut across him, "Draco's already crossed a line on several occasions. The same with Pansy Parkinson. Well, I mean, two strikes automatically. She pulls anything, it won't be a good end, I promise that."
"Look, guys. Really. Dumbledore's had ample chance to actually do his job, and make the school a safe place, but he's failed. If anything, there's a better chance he's instigating some of the things going on while I'm here." He glanced down at his watch. "We'd best be going. I have Ancient Runes in ten minutes."
That evening, Harry and his circle claimed a small corner of the training pool in the Ragnar's athletic centre. He was unsure of whether the water's depth would mean anything, but at this stage, he was ready to try anything. There was a month left before the second task of the tournament.
"Here. This'll make things a little easier," said Brandon, reaching into his utility vest. He retrieved what looked like a respirator.
"What is it?" Harry asked.
"A rebreather. It'll let you breathe underwater indefinitely."
"Wicked."
Brandon helped him to don the apparatus—a simple matter of adjusting the strap around the back of his head so the mask sealed properly. It was relatively small, and only covered the nose and mouth.
"Now... here, put this in your ear, like so." Brandon held out a small clip-like device.
"An ear piece."
"Right. You guys are all getting them," Brandon explained, while Harry inserted the device. It clipped onto his ear lobe, and became virtually unnoticeable. "Now if you touch it..." Harry did so. "You'll be able to hear us." Sure enough, he could hear Brandon speaking, both 'live', and in the ear piece. "Touch it again to switch it off."
"Isn't there a microphone?"
"Right now, it's in your rebreather. We'll give you a different set that you clip onto your clothing."
"Wicked."
"The ear piece also serves as a GPS transmitter. We'll be giving you a few toys now, that's just the start," said Brandon.
"Out of a James Bond flick, I think," said Tommy.
"'cept this stuff is very real," Justin answered, "You won't believe the number of ideas we get from the movies."
"Right. Let's get on with this, then. Will this work underwater?" Harry gestured to the ear piece.
"Perfectly," Brandon answered.
"Good." Harry shed his tee shirt, and jumped into the water. It was only up to his chest, and he surfaced almost immediately.
"Ready?" Mazhe was crouched by the side of the pool with the egg. Harry gave a nod, and Mazhe passed it over. Harry held it close, then pulled himself underwater, and twisted the knob on the egg, letting it spring open, expecting the terrible screeching sound he'd heard so many times. Instead, a chorus of beautiful voices were singing to him:
Come seek us where our voices sound,
We cannot sing above the ground,
And while you're searching, ponder this;
We've taken what you'll sorely miss,
An hour long you'll have to look,
And recover what we took,
But past an hour - the prospect's black,
Too late, it's gone, it won't come back.
Harry listened to it at least five times before he finally snapped the egg shut, and pulled himself to the surface.
"Better than that horrible screeching sound," said Brandon, with a grin. Harry smirked, and opened the egg. Everyone winced.
"Payback's a bitch, y'know," Eric muttered, rubbing his ears. Harry shrugged, and tossed the now closed egg to Mazhe, who expertly caught it.
"We'll just run him extra-hard tomorrow," Tommy smirked.
"Right, and I'll vanish ALL your tattoos," Harry smirked right back. "Permanently."
Tommy blinked.
"Right. Seriously. Come seek us where our voices sound, we cannot sing above the ground," Justin said, reading from a page of paper. He had been able to listen in, and wrote down the clue.
"Something that lives underwater."
"Something in the lake," Mazhe suggested.
"It would make sense, they probably don't plan on taking the champions far from the school," Justin guessed, "Obviously he's got an hour to find whatever it is."
"Something really important. Something you care a lot about," Tommy thought.
"It'll be a little difficult," said Harry, as he climbed out of the pool. "I don't keep anything at the castle. It's all either in my suite here on the ship, or back at the College."
"They'll have to find something to put in its place then," Mazhe guessed, "I'm guessing you'll know what it is when you, uh, find it."
Tommy furrowed his brow. "Doesn't make a lot of sense."
"When has this tournament made any sense, Tommy?" Harry snapped, "Bloody hell, we're talking about a whiskered wanker who really doesn't give a whole lot of thought toward people's feelings, the security of his school, peoples' opinions for that matter. At this point, I don't put a whole lot by him."
He sucked in a breath and blew it out.
"Right. Best get back, and send the others an owl to let them know what we've come up with. Thanks for the help, guys."
Hermione, of course, was able to solve the 'who' part of the equation.
"There is a population of merpeople in the Black Lake, Harry. It would make sense that they can't use their voices out of the water."
"Brilliant. Thanks, Hermione. That leaves only the 'what' at this point. Tommy thinks it's something I care a great deal about, but like I said to him, none of my things are... accessible. At least not to anyone who shouldn't."
"But Harry, this is Professor Dumbledore we're talking about. If he wants something or needs something done, he will find a way."
Harry could only nod slowly, knowing she was right.
"I... maybe I might send everything back to the College for the days leading up to the task, just in case. Though really, my things? It isn't exactly the end of the world if something should happen, right? There are things more important than... stuff."
February 21, 2005
Just as Harry and his friends were finishing dinner, Professor McGonagall approached them.
"Mr. Conlon. Madam Pomfrey wishes to have a word with you in the hospital wing."
Tommy frowned. "What about?"
"A follow-up, I believe."
"We'll head there shortly," said Harry.
"Also, miss Granger, Professor Dumbledore wishes to see you in his office."
"Thank you, Professor."
"And Potter."
"Professor?"
"Good luck tomorrow."
"Thank you."
When they entered the hospital wing, Madam Pomfrey was waiting, and she directed Tommy to lay on one of the beds.
"How long's this gonna take?"
"It could be a while. In all my years, I've never encountered a case like this before," answered the healer, taking out her wand.
"You guys go. I'll be okay."
"You sure? We can wait."
"No. Don't you have prep to do for tomorrow?"
"I guess."
"Anyway, something's not right, I know how to reach you, right?"
"He's got a point," said Justin, "C'mon, I think we can leave him for the evening."
"All right, all right, I surrender," Harry grinned.
"All right, you lot, shoo! Let me tend to my patient."
Tommy did not return to the Ragnar that night, and it wasn't until Harry met up with Cedric, Fleur, and Viktor that he gave it any further thought. The morning was cold and overcast as they made their way down to the lake; the Ragnar hovering directly overhead only contributed to the darkness.
"I was hoping to have a chat with Cho this morning," Cedric commented, "She was a ball of nerves before the first task."
"I'm sure she's in the crowd already," Harry answered, motioning toward the stands on the opposite side of the lake—the same stands they had used during the first task. They were stuffed to overflowing, and if he squinted, he could once again make out a contingent of his supporters from the Commonwealth. In front, there appeared to be several enormous screens.
"Harry! Good, good, all four of you are here."
"Mr. Brown, good to see you again."
"Considering what the task entails, we thought it might be helpful if the crowd can actually see what you four are doing. Here. These are miniature cameras. They are worn like so..." Oren had Harry hold the other three, while he demonstrated how to wear it.
"I vill have difficulty using one," said Viktor, "I vill be using a partial self-transfiguration."
"No worries, my boy, the camera will accommodate itself and it won't be intrusive in any way."
"Very vell."
Harry passed one over, and the second to Fleur, while Oren passed his over to Cedric.
"The cameras will broadcast what you're seeing to the screens in front of the audience."
"Brilliant."
"Ludo Bagman was somewhat hesitant, but when we gave a small demonstration last week, he was nearly over the moon, I think. All right, I have to go. Good luck to all of you." He took off in a sprint.
"Who was zat?" Fleur asked.
"Oren Brown, the minister for Culture and Heritage," Justin answered, "His ministry also oversees sports and games."
"Wondered about that," said Harry, "This was a brilliant thought though. Hey guys... have you heard from Tommy this morning?"
"Last I heard, he was still with Madam Pomfrey. He's not called for help, so we don't think he's in any danger. Why?"
"Just thinking is all. Ced, when was the last time you saw Cho?"
"Last night at dinner."
"And my sister, Gabrielle! I 'ave not seen 'er since last night."
Harry felt a stone fall into the pit of his stomach.
"Oh you bastard."
"Harry?" Mazhe looked at him questioningly.
"Hostages." Harry reached up and touched the ear clip. "Ragnar, over."
"Mr. Potter?"
"They took Tommy."
"Say again?"
"They're using hostages for the second task."
"Harry, you can't get them to intervene," Justin warned, "It might violate the contract, remember?"
"We'll be watching, and we'll intervene if we have to," came Ty's voice.
"Thank you, sir." He pressed the ear piece again. His face said it all: panic. Tommy was still relatively new in the circle, but he meant just as much to Harry as Mazhe, and to a slightly smaller scale, Justin. The guy was still conflicted on a number of matters, and perhaps that was what drove him at this point, but he had dove headlong into his friendship with the group, and perhaps more so with Harry.
"Ve vill stick together," Viktor decided.
"Work as a team? Works for me," Cedric agreed, "I didn't want anyone else in danger on the count of me."
"Likewise. Perhaps the three of you might join us when we let Dumbledore have it at the conclusion of the task. Oh, and I can't wait to see what the Commonwealth does." He gave a vicious smile. "Old wanker doesn't know when to quit, I'll give him that."
"How old is your sister, Fleur?" Mazhe asked.
"She is only eight."
"Gods. And he calls his precautions adequate?" Harry could tell by his facial expression he was grinding his teeth. His friend was pissed.
"Harry. Look at me," he said, after drawing a calming breath. "He'll be fine."
"I... I want to believe that. Gods." Harry drew a breath himself, clasped an amulet he wore around his neck, and whispered, "May Talos protect them with a ready sword..."
"Plant the seeds of doubt and defeat in the hearts their enemies," Mazhe joined in, and they continued, "Bring strength and courage to their allies... and may there be a place held for them in Arkay's realm should they part this day."
Harry had to duck down and wipe his eyes. Last thing he wanted was for anyone to see him shedding tears. He had a job to do.
The water was freezing, make no mistake. Harry had quickly cast a strong warming charm on himself, already having experienced swimming in the frigid waters in Skyrim. After all, the Sea of Ghosts was an unforgiving body of water in many ways. In retrospect, the Black Lake was somewhat tame compared to the prior. It was like entering a different world.
The four of them at once began to make for deeper water, getting directions from the Ragnar. Although Tommy had not left his ear piece on, it still broadcast his position quite well. Harry took the lead, with Cedric, Fleur, and Viktor directly behind.
Viktor was not kidding about using self-transfiguration. His lower body was still human, but his upper body had been transformed into that of a shark, although he still had hands. It was rather frightening. Both Cedric and Fleur had some sort of bubble on their faces—a charm he would most certainly ask about once the task was over. At the moment, they had much bigger fish to fry—namely locating the merpeople village. Although he couldn't answer back, he could still hear Ty's voice in his ear, giving him directions.
It was nearly a half-hour before they reached the location. Harry had already seen pictures of the merpeople, thanks to the research facilities on board the Ragnar. In addition to several books, the computers had been able to give him a rather graphic profile of the creatures. They were quite intelligent, but lived rather simple lives in a communal village.
As they got closer, the inhabitants began to appear. They had grey skin, yellow eyes, and green hair that splayed out in all directions. Their lower half consisted of a tail better suited for a shark than a fish, and in their hands they held fearsome tridents. Their dwellings were made of rock, covered in algae, and in the various windows, Harry could barely make out faces peering at him from the shadows.
A hand tapped him on the shoulder, and Harry spun around to find the others were directly behind. Cedric pointed to a location left of him: their goal. The village square, where it seemed like dozens of merpeople were gathered, a number of them singing in their beautiful, haunting voices. At the centre of the square, stood an enormous stone-carved statue of a merperson, and tethered to it, were the four hostages.
Tommy was suspended beside Cho Chang, and a girl who looked like a younger version of Fleur. Lastly, there was a young man in Durmstrang robes: Viktor's hostage. Harry produced a dwarven blade he had recently crafted, and began making for the hostages. The others quickly followed, although Viktor actually reached them first, given he was half of a fish. The merpeople scattered seeing his dangerous form.
Harry quickly cut through the ropes holding Tommy in place, but held onto him and passed the blade over to Cedric, who did the same for Cho. It was silent agreement that no one would make for the surface until all the hostages were free. Viktor had tried to use his teeth to release his friend, but it didn't work all that well. Harry saw the problem, and let the burly Bulgarian borrow his blade.
Once Fleur had freed her little sister, they clustered together with their hostages, and began a rapid ascent to the surface. The merpeople had gathered around, but kept their distance, as though offering some sort of respect for the four young people who had descended into their midst that morning. All in all, the entire operation had gone rather smoothly, even given the urgency of it.
They broke the surface as one unit, arm in arm, with the hostages in the middle. They instantly woke, as the charm keeping them in stasis broke.
"Harry? Wha... What the fuck?" Tommy sputtered, his face clouding as the freezing cold water attacked him.
"Just... hold still..." Harry didn't have his wand in his hand, but at this point he really didn't care. He cast a strong warming charm on his friend and the other hostages.
"Vandless? You surprise me again, Harry Potter," said Viktor.
"Please keep that between us," said Harry, "It's a secret weapon, not many know I can do it."
"Eet is, very rare." Fleur was impressed, although she still had most of her attention on her younger sister.
"Here it is, I know. C'mon, let's get to the platform so we can get warm and dry."
Minutes later, they were all standing on a platform in the middle of the lake, wrapped in warm towels. The judges were engaged in deep conversation, going over what they had just witnessed. Karkaroff's face kept twisting into an angry snarl, and it was likely he wasn't happy with what they were talking about. It was a good ten minutes before they broke, and Ludo Bagman put his wand to his throat, and amplified his voice.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice carrying easily across the lake, "Although there is nothing in the rules directly prohibiting the champions from assisting one another during the tasks, this level of cooperation has only been recorded a few times during the long history of the tournament. That said, this exemplifies the underlying themes and purpose of the tournament: sportsmanship and fair play. To work together to overcome a common problem. It is a strong message that can only work to better the relationship between the three schools participating in the tournament and beyond.
"After a quick conference among ourselves, and reviewing the events which we have just witnessed, it has been decided that we award forty-six out of fifty points for all four champions, and congratulate all of them on a job well done. The next and final task will take place at dusk on the twenty-fourth of June, and they will be notified a month in advance as to what to expect. I thank all of you for coming out today and supporting the champions." He cancelled the amplification charm.
"Mr. Bagman?"
"Mr. Potter. What can I do for you?"
"Is there anything in the rules that says I have to stay here until the task?"
"No, nothing officially. Why would you ask?"
"I won't be in England for the next while. But you say sometime in May we need to be here."
"Yes, exactly. The twenty-fourth of May you'll need to be around to be briefed on the final task. However if you do need to be away, I'm sure your fellow champions can fill you in."
"Thank you sir. I think returning for a few hours won't be a problem."
"Harry, I must insist-"
WHACK! The headmaster didn't see it coming, as Tommy landed a crushing upper cut that sent the old man flying—his world had gone dark long before he hit the ground. The crowd fell deathly quiet, and more than a dozen wands were drawn. Harry drew his wand in an instant, an orange glow forming in the opposite hand.
"Stand down or join him," Harry hissed.
"Harry, you can't just... Merlin..." Cedric was nearly speechless.
"That man has taken way too many liberties lately. Guys, i need your support here."
Viktor readily agreed, turning his wand toward Dumbledore and those clearly on his side. His friend quickly joined him. Cedric was a little slower, but reluctantly agreed. Dumbledore had done no good toward Harry. Fleur was last, and perhaps it was out of pressure, but... what was the right thing here?
The standoff lasted for several minutes, until a moderately-sized boat arrived to collect everyone and take them to shore. Madam Pomfrey was fussing over the injured headmaster, while Harry was shouting in her ear.
"How could you? You used his trust to lure him away from us! How does that make you feel, madam healer?! I swear to the Gods, I'll never trust you again."
"Harry, it's not doing much good to yell at her," Justin said, "Bet you anything Dumbledore put her under some sort of a compulsion charm."
"I... I guess."
"It's done. Drop it," said Tommy, "No sense in getting wound up about it, it won't do any good." He messaged his sore hand.
"Here," Justin offered, taking out his wand. Tommy held out his hand, and Justin cast a healing charm on it.
"Well, if anything, it was Patronus-worthy," said Harry, "Gods, you got him good. It'll give him something to think about, I know that much."
"You shouldn't have hit him though," said Justin, "He'll make it a personal mission to deal out some sort of revenge. And you have to know, he's not an ordinary wizard."
"I don't really give a shit. This place is full of lies."
He spat on the floor of the boat.
"I don't like lies, I sure as hell don't like this shit either. Hope he spends a month in the hospital. Make him think next time he uses someone for a tool."
"Or bait," Harry muttered. He shivered. "He could have taken Mazhe. Or Justin. Tahrodiis mey!(1) How dare he!"
"Thing is, he couldn't," said Justin, "With Tommy, he had an excuse, and really, we sort of failed too. The group security policy needs to apply to all of us. None of us can be alone on the Hogwarts grounds. Ever."
"Won't matter after today anyway. Let's just meet with the others on shore, and we can get back to the Ragnar," Harry decided.
"You still planning to have a party tonight?" Cedric asked.
"Yes. And you guys are still all invited."
As soon as the boat beached itself, Harry was pulled into a tight embrace courtesy of a brown-haired witch.
"Air... Hermione."
"Oh, Harry! And... oh Merlin, you were all amazing!"
"Thanks. But... Gods... that was so messed up."
Harry climbed out of the boat.
"Guys... I won't be coming back to Hogwarts. After this... I can't really blame Madam Pomfrey—Justin's right. But I still can't trust anyone here."
"Us too?" Ron asked, looking hurt.
"In a way, yes. Though not by your own doing. Without Dumbledore, I would trust you guys explicitly. Thing is, he's a powerful wizard, not afraid to do just about anything to get what he wants. I can't prove it, but... I bet a bag full of galleons he cast some sort of charm on Madam Pomfrey. She summoned Tommy to the hospital wing—I mean, you guys were there when Professor McGonagall approached us yesterday. Sometime after that, well... who knows?"
"So you're going back to Skyrim?" Hermione guessed.
"I don't know. The Ragnar is pretty comfortable, and so I might just stick around."
"As far as I know, no matter what you decide to do, Harry, the Ragnar's staying put until further notice," said Justin.
"Good to know. It means that you guys can come visit now and then."
"Well, one good thing—at least for Dumbledore... our soldiers will leave the school," Brandon said. Harry looked at him a moment, but turned his attention back to Tommy.
"You... you okay?"
"Still cold. Look, let's just get back to the boat an' I can go fall in the tub for an hour."
"I'm sorry he did this to you." Harry touched him on the shoulder. "'specially after all the other shit you've had to deal with."
"Not your fault. Never was." Tommy gripped Harry's hand and plucked it away, but pulled him into a tight hug. "Not your fault."
That evening, while the three schools once again packed into the Ragnar's Virtual Projection Room to celebrate the conclusion of the second task, Albus Dumbledore lay on a bed in the hospital wing, while Madam Pomfrey dumped another dose of Skele-gro down his throat.
Tom Conlon had cleaned his clock. That was an absolute fact. Dumbledore couldn't remember anything past his leaving the Great Hall to attend the second task. The punch had come out of nowhere, shattering his jaw and giving him a concussion. It wasn't his finest hour, and if he truly thought about it, it was really only his fault.
Tommy was a Muggle, but from what the headmaster had been able to learn, he was dangerous. Former military dangerous. He was not an individual to be taken lightly—none of Harry's circle were, for that matter. They all had some skill set to offer, magical or otherwise. The information the headmaster had on him was graphic enough. Stills from a Muggle video on the internet had attested to that.
The entire group Harry surrounded himself with was a grave concern. As long as he was surrounded by those, the boy was virtually untouchable. And, without further dirt on any of them, there wasn't a whole lot that could be done. Dumbledore just had to be patient. A way would open up. It always did.
UP NEXT: Harry and his circle retreat back to Skyrim until the third task; a new addition to the College is a source of unwanted complications; and the third task of the tournament has some expected, and not-so-expected results.
AUTHOR NOTES: (1) Tahrodiis mey –treacherous fool