Two tasks were done, two tasks I did not think I would live through I had not only survived, but excelled in. It turned out I was a better wizard than I had thought. Best news was though that I had a long time to myself before I had to worry about the third and final task. In that time I planned to focus on school work and continuing to learn new spells from books in the library. Of course before I could do any of that I had to write my mother to inform her of the second task. After Madame Pomfrey let us go I went by myself to the Owlrey, where I wrote my mom the first letter since the first task.

Hi Mom,

I'm sorry I haven't written you in a few months. A lot has happened. I had a falling out with Hermione, which meant we didn't go to the Ball together. She ended up going with another Champion, Viktor Krum, the famous Quidditch Player. We patched things up though, but I ended up going with another girl and dating her for a couple months.. That ended yesterday though. That is why there are no pictures to send, also there wasn't really a photographer, and no one ask Colin Creevey to the ball so even he couldn't take any photos. However I wanted to tell you I survived the second task, which was swimming around in the Black Lake for an hour searching for hostages, Battling Grindylows and Merpeople to get there (I didn't run into the giant squid thank the gods) Harry, Cedric Diggory and I are tied for first place (Although Cedric got first place for the second task) We don't know what the third task is, and won't know until May 24th, with the final task taking place on June 24th. Just one more task, then it is over.

Its been an interesting few months to say the least, I've got to go now, probably going to be a big party in the Gryffindor Common Room tonight. I hope you are well, and can't wait to see you this summer.

With love,

David

I attached the letter to Zeus and he flew off. I then decided it was time to return to the common room, as I was sure Hermione was probably going to tell me off from almost starting a fight with Krum, and it was probably best to get that over with.

Surprisingly there was no argument from Hermione, in fact the next week was very easy going. A lot of people wanted tales of what happened during the task since it was all under water. And because Hermione and Ron were technically under water with us, they got to be in the spotlight as much as Harry and I, which was nice for Ron, who's story got more epic with each telling. The real shocker however, was when Sirius wrote Harry telling us where to meet him in Hogsemede, so it seemed he was back in the area. It would be nice to see Sirius again in person, without the threat of death, although I was worried for him. He may not have been my godfather, but he was still one of my fathers friends, and one of the few connections I had to him.

So the next week we got together all the food we could carry and hide and went out to meet him at the road leading out of Hogsmede. We were greeted by a large black dog, who came over and sniffed our food "Hello Sirius" Harry whispered happily. The dog then walked off, leading us away from the village. He lead us into the mountains, where there was a small cave, inside was Buckbeak the Hippogryff. Sirius transformed back into his human form and began to eat the chicken. Harry asked "What are you doing here Sirius?" Sirius then said "Fullfilling my role as Godfather, and of course looking after the son of another dear friend. I want to be on the scene. Things are getting fishier. First Bertha Jorkins goes missing, then the Quidditch World cup, then you two being forced into the Triwizard Tournament, now Mr Crouch seems to go missing, off sick" The other three started to talk about Crouch a lot, about him sacking Winky, about who could have actually conjured the dark mark back in August. After that Sirius painted a picture of what life was like during the dark times, the point sticking out to me was when he glanced at me saying "Friends turn out to be enemies" which I knew he meant my father. He then explained what Mr Crouch was like at the time, and how he prosecuted Sirius with no trial, and even his own son.

He then began to talk about Azkaban, and I knew in that moment I never wanted to break any wizarding law, and it sounded horrible. He mentioned Crouch's son, how he died in there, how Mr Crouch and his wife got a deathbed visit, and how Sirius watched Mr Crouch half carry his sickly wife out of the prison, who proceeded to die a little later. I broke my silence to say "Well that could explain why he isn't so friendly, its still no excuse to sack his house elf like that." I added the last part after Hermione gave me a dirty look. After some more talk about Crouch, then some of Mad Eye Moody and Snape, Sirius said "Its getting late, now I don't want you 4 sneaking out of the castle to see me." I then said "I don't know, sounds like the kind of thing the Marauders would have done" He smirked at me and said "Yes you are right, however now that the surviving members are adults and responsible for the fallen members children, we can afford to be a bit of a hypocrite. However that was a very Sharptooth thing to say." I smiled. He then finished "And remember when you are talking about me amongst yourselfs, call me Snuffles. Now let me walk you back, maybe I can get a more recent Prophet." He then morphed back into his dog form and we set off.

The next few months were mostly uneventful. Percy got back to us about Mr Crouch, basically telling us to mind our own business. Rita Skeeter released another article, this time bashing Hermione, making her out to be some sort of, attention seeker, jumping from one famous person to the next, first me (While I'm not famous, I am a School Champion) then climbing up the ladder to Harry, and then Krum. This lead to much hate mail, something I was somehow able to avoid when Skeeter went after me. With all the hate mail she was getting, I almost immediately threw out the letter from my mom when I got it a couple weeks later. Luckily Hermione saved it and handed it back to me.

Hullo Hunny,

I'm sorry to hear about Hermione dear, I'm sure whatever happened either you or she did not mean it. You two are very much alike, and I can tell she cares for you very deepily, you'll get there in the end. I have faith in you. I am, however, upset that you went months without writing me, and in doing so you didn't tell me about your FIRST girlfriend! Do I not even get a name? Nevermind about that for now though. I am proud of what you have been able to accomplish, and I don't just mean in this Tournament, but everything you have done since you began your journey at Hogwarts, Saving the Muggleborns from the Chamber of Secrets, Making the Quidditch team and securing the Quidditch cup, helping to secure your house cup for Gryffindor 3 years in a row, not only surviving being thrust into this tournament, but actually having a chance to win it, and of course facing down the...man... who took your father from us while in your first year! It is my deepest regret that I, nor your father, has ever got to see this. I wish you well sweetie, and good luck!

I love you,

Mom

It was the words in that letter that kept me riding high for the two months leading up to May 24th. That was when I finally had to return to earth and face the trials I still had ahead of me. After our Transfiguration lesson Professor McGonagall said "Mr Potter, Mr Shuter, a word." we both stayed back. She was silent for a moment, looking at each of us. She then said "You two are to go to the Quidditch Pitch at 8:30 this evening, it is there Mr Bagman will give you the specifics of the final task." Harry and I looked at eachother, the quick flash of fear in each of our eyes, before I said "Thank you Professor." She looked like she wanted to say more as she opened her mouth once more, she then closed it and nodded. We both took our leave.

That evening we made our way to the Quidditch Pitch with Cedric. Diggory asked "You don't reckon the final task is Quidditch do you?" I shook my head "No way, with the likes of Krum and us, Fleur would not stand a chance, part Veela or not. It wouldn't be fair." Harry then asked "What do you reckon then?" I shrugged "Obviously they will want all eyes on us, thus the Pitch, maybe we'll be dueling Aurors or something.. Or maybe this is a misdirect and the final task has nothing to do with the pitch at all. Considering what we have already been through, anything is possible." We then arrived at the pitch and stopped in our tracks "What have they done to it?" Cedric asked in horror. Harry then said "They're Hedges." Ludo Bagman then said "Beautiful aren't they, Hagrid should have them 20 feet high by the time of the task. Now you know what they are, who wants to take a guess at what we are making here." I quickly racked my brain as to what hedges would be used for, I then said at the same time as Krum "A Maze" We glared at eachother. Bagman nodded "Correct! It's a maze. The third task is pretty straight forward, the Triwizard Cup will be placed in the middle of the maze and first one to retrieve it wins." I whispered to Harry "Maybe they ran out of ideas on how to kill us" Fleur voiced this a little louder saying "We seemply 'ave to get through a maze?" Bagman then said happily "There will be obsticles. Hagrid is lending us many of his creatures, and there will be enchantments to break as well! Now the first ones to enter the maze will be our leaders, The Hogwarts trio! Then 10 minutes after that Mr Krum, and 10 minutes after that Miss Delacour. You all will have a fighting chance to win, depending on how well you get past the obstacles. Should be fun eh?" I shuddered to think what creatures Hagrid could provide, considering the last time he provided a creature towards something, it was a vicious giant 3 headed dog... was there enough time to learn an instrument before the task?

Krum wanted a word with Harry alone after the announcement, after a quick nod from Harry saying it was okay, I made my way back to the castle. Cedric caught up with me. "So a maze huh? Should be easy." I shrugged "I gather you haven't had to attempt to take care of Hagrids Blast Ended Skrewts all year." He chuckled "No, I dropped that course after my OWLS. Still, obstacle courses should be second fiddle to you and Harry after what the two of you accomplished in your first couple years at Hogwarts... The Stone, and the Chamber of Secrets.. I'd say you may be more qualified for this task than the rest of us." He did have a point, Harry and I had done this in the past, we could do it again. "Well that may be true, they are not experiences I wish to repeat, We barely survived them back then. Our luck has to run out sometime." This idea seemed to sober Cedric up and he didn't say anything else. We nodded goodbye and I returned to the Gryffindor tower.

The next few days brought the return and subsequent disappearance of Mr Crouch, as well as Sirius instructing Harry and I not to leave the castle after dark, to focus on preparing for the next task, learning stunning and hexes and such. So the following few weeks we spent researching and practicing hexes and curses. Despite all the fear, I actually enjoyed this time, as it was nice to finally be training with all 4 of us together, without outside distractions or inter-group turmoil. It was in this time I greatly improved my repertoire of spells. Which was a good thing considering Harry had a dream where Voldemort was becoming stronger, and Dumbledore confirmed this. That in itself was almost scarier than the third task.

The Morning of the third task arrived, and with it a few surprises, first Hermione seemed to have figured out how Skeeter was able to get all this private information for her articles (As another article regarding Harry collapsing in class had just been released) which lead to her needing time in the library and running off. The second was Professor McGonagall coming to see us at the Gryffindor table saying "The Champions are congregating in the chamber off the hall after breakfast." Harry then said panicked "But the task isn't until this evening!" McGonagall nodded "I know, however the families of the Champions are hear to watch the final task, and this is simply a chance for you to meet them." Harry and I looked at eachother "She doesn't expect the Dursleys to come watch, does she?" I shook my head "Even if they wanted to they couldn't, Muggles can't cross on to Hogwarts grounds can they? Otherwise My Mother would have written me telling me she was coming. Do you think they found some long lost relatives of ours? Like our Grandparents or something?" Harry shook his head sadly "I'm sure any other Potters would be just as famous as I am, but perhaps they found your dad's parents?" I sighed "Honestly if they were alive you'd think Dumbledore would have told me about them by now.." However Cedric stuck his head out the door to the room off the hall saying "What are you two waiting for, they are waiting for you?"

With one more look at eachother, Harry and I made our way into the hall. "Surprise!" said Mrs Weasley, Bill...and my Mother. I stared at her "Mom! How.. What.. Why.. Muggles aren't allowed onto Hogwarts grounds!" Mom hugged me tightly before pulling back to say "When I wrote you I also wrote Professor Dumbledore about you, asking him to continue to keep an eye on you, he wrote back telling me about this Tournament tradition, and with a few enchantment he was able to bend the rules to allow me onto the ground. This place is amazing Sweetie! No Wonder you never come home for the holidays! And Harry! Its so good to see you! How are you?" She hugged Harry and Mrs Weasley took her turn to hug me. Bill then shook my hand. Mrs Weasley then said "We're here to support both of you for the final task" Bill then added "And of course see the Castle, can't believe how much I missed this place." Mom then said "Yes, I want to see it all! Will you two take us on a tour?" I nodded.

Just before we left Mr Bagman approached us "Ahh Harry just the person I wanted to- YOU?!" He looked at mom with utter disbelief. She smiled at him "Ahh, Mr Bagman, it's been a while, hasn't it? Just here to see my son take part in this Tournament of yours." I looked between them "You Know Eachother?" Mom smiled at me "This is the lovely wizard who gave me your Broom. " Bagman huffed "You.. Tricked me. You knew about.. Everything! Well.. I.." Mom then gave him a sweet look "I See the Ministry job is going well for you, although next time I would considering adding a rule not allowing 14 year olds to participate in a death tournament, no matter what some magic goblet says" Bagman blinked a few times, and I said "Time for the tour!" and pulled my mother away from him.

Harry and I lead them around the ground for the morning. My Mother was in shock and awe the whole time. She was even lucky enough to see some of the Giant squid, who was basking in the sunlight on the surface of the water. She even commented "You spent an hour underwater in the same lake as that thing?!" I nodded "Honestly It's very friendly, but I doubt it would have enjoyed us intruding in its territory." We pointed out the Whomping Willow, the Forbidden Forrest, Hagrids Hut (Hagrid was having conducting an Exam at the time, but he still waved at us) I even pointed out the Quidditch Pitch, saying "You'll see more of that later, it doesn't look anything like it normally does." We then had lunch with the others, my mother being extra friendly with Hermione, probably hoping that would warm her up to me even more. We then spent the afternoon touring the castle, I made sure to take them by the Trophy hall, where I pointed out our awards for special services to the school, as well as taking them by the Quidditch Cup, where the list of winner could be found. First I pointed out our picture we took the year before, as well as pointing out the one with my father's name on it. I could swear I saw my mothers eyes well up at that, as that was probably the first time she had seen my father (moving at least) since he left 13 years before. Dinner then arrived, and we ate.

Soon enough, Dumbledore said "In 5 minutes I will ask everyone to proceed to the Quidditch Pitch for the third and final task. Champions if you will head there now with Mr Bagman." Gryffindor table roared with applause as Harry and I stood up. Mrs Weasley, Bill, my Mom, Ron and Hermione wished us luck. Mom then added "Make him proud hunny." knowing she meant my father, I said "I will." we then proceeded to follow Mr Bagman out of the hall. I was feeling oddly confident, as this was the first task I was confident I had prepared as much as I possibly could for. That was until I saw the hedges in the pitch.. They were huge.. They had to have taken down half the pitch to make room for it. I felt a pang of fear at the sight. But after remembering some of the other things I had faced and lived, I calmed down a little.

Almost too soon everyone arrived at the pitch and filled the stands. Harry and I stood side by side, him in his red and black outfit, me in my red and gold. Cedric also stood beside us. We were all tense, knowing we would be the first to have to brave the maze. Mr Bagman said "Sonorus" Then his magically magnified voice said "Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen! The third and final task is about to begin! Let me remind you all where the points currently stand. In a three way tie for first with eighty-five points each, is Mr Cedric Diggory, Mr Harry Potter and Mr David Shuter, all three of Hogwarts school!" the stands roared with applause and cheers. "Second with a total of eighty points, is Mr Viktor Krum of Durmstrang Insitute!" More applause, although not as deafening as the first round. "And in third place Miss Fleur Delacour of Beauxbatons Academy!" Not really much applause for this one, save for Beauxbatons, Hermione, Ron, Mrs Weasley, Bill and my Mother. I noticed them and waved, throwing them a semi-confident smile "So on the Whistle Hogwarts Champions. One-two" He blew his whistle, I pulled out my wand and charged into the maze with Cedric and Harry. I then said "Lumos!" my wand tip ignited. I heard Harry and Cedric do the same. Once at the first fork Harry and I gave a nod to Cedric "See you" Harry said, we then took the left one. We then came up on the next fork in the maze. Harry and I stopped and looked at each other "Well... I guess I'll see you at the end of this mate" He nodded "Good luck David." I smiled "You too Harry." He then went right and I went left.

This was when the maze really began to feel scarey. Now I had plenty of experience with dangerous situations up until this point. I had navigated the challenges guarding the Philosphers stone, as well as been in the Forbidden forest at night, both times coming face to face with Voldemort himself. I had also waded into an Acromantula nest willingly at night. Not to mention found the Chamber of Secrets and full expecting to come face to face with a Basalisk. I had also come face to face with a Werewolf, Dementors, one of the most dangerous dragons in existence, and survived an hour alone underwater. However this was almost worst. It was dark, I could barely see anything. I could hear the creatures moving about the maze, but when they were silent It was TOO silent. I held my wand in my hand and whispered to it "Point me" it spun and pointed north. This told me the direction I needed to go in. I then set off.

After a couple minutes the darkness and noises began to get to me and I contemplated casting my patronus for both light and company. However before I could decide I turned a corner and standing before me was an Acromantula. It seemed Hagrid had convinced some of Aragogs children to participate in the task. It reared on 6 legs, as if to say ' fear me' I pointed my wand at it and shouted the first spell that came to mind. "EXPECTO PATRONUM!" I pictured winning the Quidditch Cup the year before and my Lion Patronus shot from my wand, charging down the giant spider. The Acromantula clicked its pincers and swiped at my lion, it going through the ghostly figure. Realizing the patronus could do no real damage to it, it charged at me, I backed up, tripped over a root and fell onto my back. The Spider stood over me. I then used a spell that saved my life a couple times in my first year "Flipendo!" The force of the spell caused the Spider to fall backwards. I then scrambled to my feet and said "Petrificus Totalus!" The Spider froze in place. I then sidestepped around the spider and kept going, there being no need to kill the creature now that it was subdued.

During the scuffle my patronus had disappeared, so I chanted "Expecto Patronum" one more time, my lion appearing in front of me. I smiled slightly "Hey Sharptooth." I then kept on my way, using my wand to point me in the right direction every time I needed it. It wasn't long before I heard some crackles of spell fire. I glanced around a corner to see Cedric fighting off one of Hagrids remaining two Blast Ended Screwts. Due to the fact I had spent all year taking care of them I could tell what it was about to do. I yelled "CEDRIC, DIVE!" He luckily did not hesitate and dove from the ground. I then yelled "Stupify!" The spell bounced harmlessly off the Screwts armor plating. Cedric ran and took cover behind the hedge on the opposite side of me. "You had to mention those blasted Screwts didn't you!" He said, a small pull at his lips to show he was joking. I nodded "Gotta make things interesting, this is supposed to be an entertaining event after all." He then said "So, what's the plan David?" I raised an eyebrow "You're the 7th year aren't you? You're supposed to be the knowledgeable one!" He then said " . You have the most experience with this... experiment." I sighed and said "Okay, I'll take the lead. We both charge it down, I'll dive one way grabbing its attention, you slide underneath it and paralyze it. There is no armor on its underbelly." He nodded "Lets do it." I then yelled and charged out, Cedric on my heels. When I got close to it I dove to my right, I then pointed my wand mid fall and yelled "IMPEDIMENTA!" Slowing the creature down enough for Cedric to have time to slide underneath it, he chanted "Petrificus Totalus!" the Skrewt froze. I then stood up, Cedric doing the same.

More foot steps approached, we both twisted around, wands pointed towards the potential. Harry turned the corner and skid to a stop, panting. We all lowered our wands, me exhaling in relief. Harry panted "Heard..shouting.. Came...to.. Help.." Cedric said "Cheers. I ran into this Blast Ended Skrewt, would have burned me alive if David hadn't come to the rescue." I shrugged "Glad to help." Harry then said "Just ran into a boggart back there, so be careful." I nodded "And I ran into an Acromantula, hopefully Aragog himself isn't somewhere in here." Cedric looked between the two of us before saying "Well.. We'd better get a leg on, Krum and Delacour ought to be in here by now." I nodded and said "Wait, one last thing, stand back." I kicked the Skrewt over so its belly was exposed. I then pointed my wand at it and said "Bombarda Maxima!" The Skrewt blew up. I quick flick of my wand and a "Protego" protected us from blood and guts. They both stared opened mouthed, I then shrugged "What? I didn't want to spend next year taking care of any offspring this one and the other one would make over the summer." They both let loose a chuckle before we all split up.

I rounded a few more corners to get away from them both before I was going to cast my patronus again.. I didn't want any jokes about needing company. However before I could I rounded a corner and stopped in my tacks, my breath hitched in my throat. In front of me was a Chimera, a fire breathing Lion\Goat\Serpent hybrid. I knew, minus using an Unforgivable curse, that I would not be able to best it with the spells I knew. I needed a weapon. But how? I knew the Greek Hero Bellerophan used arrows to kill it from the sky upon Pegasus. However I did not have that option. I was sure to be disqualified if I summoned a broom from the castle, since I could just fly right to the Cup. However there was one weapon I knew off in the castle. I pointed my wand to the sky and chanted "Accio Gryffindor's Sword!"

The Chimera turned to face me. I crouched slightly, trying to anticipate its next move. It slowly moved towards me, testing me. It then blew fire at me. I had anticipated this though, conjuring up water to combat it. "Agumenti!" The water did not really do a good job though as the heat from the fire evaporated the water, the fire getting closer and closer to me. When it seemed to be a losing battle I abandoned the spell and dove, trying to avoid the fire, It still got my shoulder. I panicked and pointed my wand yelling "REDUCTO!" the force of the spell sent the Chimera flying backwards through a hedge. I then swatted at the fire on my shoulder, putting it out. The material was burned though, and my skin felt raw. I stood up and winced at the pain. The Chimera came back at me. This time I used the shield charm to protect myself from the fire"Protego!" I noticed Fleur through the hole in the hedge. She looked like she was torn, before yelling "Zeorry!" and ran off. I shook my head but focused on maintaining the spell. The force of the fire pushed me down onto my knees. I cowered behind my spell, brain frantically trying to come up with another plan, when I noticed a glint of sliver in the air. The Sword of Gryffindor!

I held out my free hand and caught it, I then rolled backward, stopping my shield charm. The Chimera tried again to burn me but I spat "Impedimenta!" I then dove under the slowed fire, came up kneeling under the creatures head, and thrust the sword through its head. The fire stopped and the life left its eyes. I ripped out the sword and it fell down, dead.

I did not have a chance to catch my breath because I heard Fleur. Despite the fact she had left me to die, I was not going to do the same to her. I ran through the whole in the hedge (Which had begun to heal itself) and then took off in the direction she had been going. I then saw her on the ground, vines from the Hedge starting to pull her in. I said "Relishio!" The vines released her. I quickly inspected her. No wounds.. She looked stunned.. Something magical did this. I didn't have time to investigate further however, since I needed to get a move on. So I shot sparks into the air for someone to pick her up. I then kept going.

I did not go long before I ran into another creature famous from Greek Mythology, a Manticore. Now I knew this one was a dangerous beast, even more deadly than the Chimera. With the head of a human, body of a lion and tail of a scorpion, its sting would bring instant death.. I also couldn't remember any stories off the top of my head where a greek hero killed it. I was going to die. I tried to sneak around it, holding my breath, but I stepped on a twig and it saw me "Shit." I swore. It then charged at me, I swung the Sword of Gryffindor wildly, attempting to scare it away. It blocked one attack with its tail and then swatted the sword out of my hand. I then quickly backed up, yelling spell after spell "STUPIFY! CONGRINGO! REDUCTO, PETRIFICUS TOTALUS!" All the spells bump harmlessly off the Manticore. It laughs, a human laugh, which was the most terrifying thing. I then fell backwards, yelling out in fear, scrambling back. The Manticore brings is sting down, hitting the ground beside me multiple times as I just barely dodge it. Finally when it seemed like it was over, I closed my eyes, thinking of My Mom, Hermione, Harry, Ron.. The people who would miss me.. The people I loved.

Then a voice cried "Langlock!" the Manticores legs snapped together and it fell over. I scrambled to my feet and saw Cedric and Harry charging for me. I ran towards them. Cedric then yelled "Incendio! Hurry guys use Protego, trap the fire!" Harry and I pointed our wands at the creature and yelled "Protego!" a strong shield forms, trapping the fire, it then got smaller and smaller, cooking the Manticore. It screamed human screams, which made me actually feel for the creature that was about to kill me. Finally the screaming stopped, and we stopped our spells. The Manticore nothing but a charred mess. I then pent over, hands on my knees, panting "Thanks.. Guys.. I was..as good as..dead." Harry then said "You would have done the same for me.. In fact you have on multiple occasions, what are mates for." He placed a hand on my back. Cedric said "This Tournament is crazy, its got people turning on eachother. You both have helped me, within this very maze no less, the least I can do is watch your backs when I can." I smiled and then went over an retrieved the sword. Harry asked "How did you get that?" I smirked "I took a leaf out of your book, summoned it from the castle. Saved my life against a Chimera a few minutes ago." I then turned serious and said "Wait Cedric, what do you mean its turning people against each other?" Cedric said grimly "Krum attacked me, using the Cruciatus curse. It looked like he was Imperioused." I nodded slowly saying "He must have attacked Fleur then, I found her stunned after the Chimera.. Funny thing is if Krum did attack her, why didn't he attack me when I was dealing with the Chimera.. Fleur ran right past me." Harry then fixed his glasses saying "You don't reckon.. Whoever put our names in the Goblet, used Krum to try and take out the competition? Ensure one of us wins?" I shrugged "Unlikely with Dumbledore watching so closely, that being said, I'll stay with Cedric, to protect him.. Just in case." Cedric nodded his thanks. We then split ways again.

We both ignited our wands and continuing. Things were surprisingly silent, perhaps we had cleared out all the dangerous creatures. Cedric was silent the whole time. I understood why, especially if he finally believed someone put Harry and I up to this. Whoever did it was somehow taking out the competition, and he was the last one left. Finally he said "as much as I appreciate this.. My fathers counting on me to win this.. And I can't do that with you tailing along, I'll be fine on my own. Thank you David." I so it turned out maybe Cedric didn't believe us after all. But I couldn't blame him.. This whole Tournament we had been stealing his moment.. Hufflepuffs moment. So I said "Be careful Cedric." He nodded and took off, I followed from a distance for a while, before taking a different turn. I then whispered to my wand one last time "Point me." It pointed north, and I knew where I had to go. I took off at a jog.

It wasn't much longer before I heard a shout from not to far off "Cedric, on your left!" Then I heard Harry shouting spells, I took a turn and saw the whole scene. Cedric was metres from the Cup, a GIANT Acromantula (almost as big as Aragog himself) in between him and Harry, Harry was on the ground, the Spider about to kill him. I bellowed a battle cry and ran forward, I stepped over Harry and swung the Sword of Gryffindor, cutting off a spiders leg, it recoiled with a screech. It then swung at me with another leg, which I also cut off with the sword. I next pointed my wand at it and yelled "Stupify" Harry and Cedric both echoed the spell, all 3 of them working and sending the creature toppling sideways.

I then turned and knelt by Harry, his leg was bleeding. Cedric yelled out "Harry, David? You alright? It didn't land on you did it?" Harry yelled back "No." I then asked "Can you stand Harry?" He grimaced but allowed me to help him to his feet. He threw his arm over my shoulder. He was shaking from the effort to stand. I looked at Cedric, who was frozen, looking between the Cup and us. "Go on, take it then, you're there." I then nodded, adding "Hufflepuff can have its glory." Cedric hesitated, then finally said "One of you take it, you should win, both of you have saved my neck multiple times in this maze." I then said "I would be dead if you two hadn't saved me from the Manticore." Harry then said "This isn't how its supposed to work, one of you take it. I'm not going to win any races one this leg" I shook my head "I'm not leaving you Harry." Cedric added "You told me about the dragons when you didn't have to" Harry then said "I had help on that, and you told me about the Egg" Cedric admitted "I also had help on that. You should have gotten more points in the second task Harry, you stayed behind to help all the hostages. I should have done that." I then said "That was because we were stupid enough to believe the damn song." Harry then said angerly "Just take the cup so all of this can be over" I nodded in agreement, saying "Niether of us were supposed to be in this to begin with. We just want it to be over.. Please Cedric, take the Cup, you deserve it. Think of your father." Cedric began to walk away from the cup "No."

Harry then looked at me "Then you take it David. You've helped me so much over the past few years. You take the glory." I shook my head "Nice try Harry, I doubt my father would have been too proud of me abandoning my best friend for fame. Besides, after seeing how you have to deal with fame, I don't want it. I'm perfectly happy being just regular old David Shuter." Harry shook his head "You have never been regular David, you the best mate anyone could ask for." He was silent before he finally said "Why don't we all take it. The Three of us. None of us would be alive right now without the other. We tie. It's a Hogwarts Victory after all" I smiled, as did Cedric "You're on" he then came over and took Harry's other arm, we walked up to the Cup. Harry then said "On three, one." Cedric said "Two" I then said "Three" We all grabbed a hold of the cup. I then felt myself being pulled up. In a blink of light the maze was gone, and we found ourselves somewhere else.

It was a graveyard, and it was scary. I then said "Since when was the Cup supposed to be a portkey?" Harry shrugged. Cedric then asked "Wands out, do you reckon." I nodded "Couldn't hurt" I stabbed the Sword of Gryffindor into the dirt, seeing no used for it, and raised my wand. We then saw a cloaked figure approaching us. It stopped by a headstone. We all side glanced at eachother. We walked forward, I lowered my wand and went to hide it behind my back, in case it was a Muggle. Then as we got close Harry cried out and fell to his knees, grabbing at his scar "Harry!" I yelled, but no sooner had the words left my lips that the figured pulled out a wand and roped came out the end, tying tightly around me, pinning my arms to body, so I couldn't raise my wand. A voice then said "Kill the spare." The man pointed his wand at Cedric and screeched "Avada Kadavra!" I shouted "NO CEDRIC MOVE!" but it was too late, the green light I had seen only twice before struck Cedric... and like My Father and the Spider, Cedric fell down, dead.

I then watched helplessly as the man magically tied Harry to the headstone, which said Tom Riddle. The plot thickened as the man pulled down his hood, revealing Wormtail. My eyes bulged, putting the pieces together. THIS is where Voldemort was.. That first voice was Voldemort. I knew I needed to get out of here and save Harry.. But I wasn't sure how. I watched helplessly as Wormtail began t ritual, conjuring up a fire and cauldron. I looked at Harry, but he was writhing in pain. I began to think. As I was thinking I became aware of my wand touching my leg. I then glanced behind me, where the Sword of Gryffindor was about 20 meters away. I then waited for Wormtail to be faced away. I then whispered "Invisibilia" conjuring a Disillusionment charm. I then began to roll my way backwards. It took a while but I made it to the Sword. I then began to slowly rub against it, cutting the ropes. After what felt like forever they finally dropped to the ground, becoming visible again. I hoped to my feet, reading to curse Wormtail and save Harry, but froze. A figure had just climbed out of the cauldron... it was Lord Voldemort.

I then had no choice but to hide behind the tombstone, watching as Voldemort called his Death Eaters, talking about loyalty, he then said "You will notice one other absence from our circle tonight. That of the Traitor Ernest Moore. May that serve as a reminder to all of you what nothing but absolute loyalty will get you.. Death at my hands.. But more on that later. We are of course joined by his spawn, David Shuter, who will serve as a more.. Recent.. Reminder of what betrayal gets you. Death, isn't that right Shuter" He turned and pointed his wand at where I had been tied up. He then turned around wildly. Lucius Malfoy said "Allow me to lead the search party for the boy My Lord, I will ensure his death will be..painful." Voldemort shook his head "Its of no use Lucius, he is still with us right now. Invisible. His father was a master of Disillusionment charms after all. It was that reason.. And one other, that I allowed him into my service. You may hide Shuter.. But you will meet your death soon, just like your traitorous father! You may find this... educational. It will be poetic justice, while Ernest died before he could witness me killing his friend Potter, you shall witness me kill your friend Potter, then I shall end you as well, and draw a close to Ernest's precious bloodline!" I pursed my lips. I was scared, but I wanted to curse him for what he said.. But I had to save Harry, with no chance of doing that surrounded by 14 dark wizards, I just had to bide my time , and wait.

Voldemort then began to regal to tale of his downfall saying "His mother died to protect her child. She then unwittingly provided him with a protection I was too pre-occupied to foresee. I could not touch the boy. It is old magic, leaving the traces of sacrifice on the boy. This caused my spell to rebound, leaving me in a state worse than death. But now my little friend and I share the same blood. I can touch him now." He demonstrated this ability by touching Harry, leading to him screaming in pain. Voldemort laughed before pulling away and saying "You may wonder, how could I, the greatest sorcerer to have ever lived, could forget such a simple piece of magic. I was distracted, I am ashamed to admit. I had truly believed I had turned Ernest Moore from the Mudblood lover, Dumbledore. He even killed his parents in a show of loyalty to me. I had acomplished what many before me at not. I underestimated the bonds of school friendship. He sought me out that night in Godrics Hallows, betrayed me, attempted to end my reign. I was forced to kill one of our own. My anger... and disappointment clouded my thoughts, So that on the night that would have been my greatest victory, was my greatest failure. That is no matter now, as tonight will be my greatest triumph, as I erase the two bloodlines responsible for my failures."

He then went on to explain his plan, how he planted a faithful death eater at hogwarts, who snuck both Harry and my name in the goblet, and helped us succeed in the tasks so we could take the portkey here.. Where he could use Harry's blood to be reborn and ignore the spell of protection, and kill me for my father's betrayal. After toying with Harry for a bit using the Cruciatus curse, he then ordered wormtail to untie Harry and give him his wand.

They began to duel, although it was very one sided. Voldemort tortured Harry, Imperioused him, and did everything he could to get him to beg for mercy. Harry did not. My brain was in overdrive trying to come up with a plan.. But I couldn't think of anything. It was hopeless. Harry would die.. Then so would I. No one would know what had happened to us.. We would just be another Bertha Jorkins. Finally Harry fought back, he shot an disarming curse at Voldemort as Voldemort attempted to kill him. I watched as this formed some sort of connection between the wands. Fear flashed in Voldemorts eyes. The Death Eaters saw it too as one pointed his wand at Harry. I then jumped forward, back to back with Harry and yelled "Protego!" I blocked the spell. I then said "Hold on Harry, I've got your back." Voldemort tried not to show fear, letting loose a laugh "And the Traitor's son makes his final stand. You both shall die, as nature intended!" I was ready to duel whoever attacked, but we were all distracted as figures emerged from Voldemort's wand. Phoenix sounds even came out of both their wands, it was one of the weirdest things I had ever experienced.

It got weirder as the first figure was Cedric himself "Hold on Harry!" Then most figures came out, an old muggle man, a woman, who must have been Bertha Jorkins, then a man with untidy hair and glasses.. James Potter. He smiled at both of us "Your mother will be here soon Harry.. As will your Father David.. They want to see you both very much." Then came Harry's mother... and last.. A figure I had only seen in pictures and my dreams.. My father.. Ernest Moore. He landed beside me "David.. I am.. So very proud of you. I do not have much time.. There is so much I want to say.. First.. I hope the spell I placed on you as a child did not scare you.. I did not want you to believe I was truly evil, which is why I showed you my final moments, to be triggered the moment you crossed back into England. Second.. The reason I gave up everything, my friends, you and Nancy.. My reputation, to spy on Lord Voldemort. It was my duty, to ensure the fall of the Heir of Salazar Slytherin, a duty that you must now shoulder.. As you are the last remaining Heir of Godric Gryffindor." I froze, looking at the whispy figure. I couldn't comprehend it.. Way too much information in a short amount of time. Could this really be true.. Could it be real, was all this a figment of my imagination?

I was pulled back into the present as Harry broke the connection between the wands with a bang. Two Death Eaters fired spells at us. I blocked one with a shield charm, but couldn't move my wand fast enough to block both. I raised my hand, wishing the sword of Gryffindor was in my hand to block the spell. I couldn't believe my eyes then, when the sword appeared in my hand, growing from hilt to point. It blocked the spell. Harry then yelled "Run! For Cedrics body." I then said "Go! I'll cover you!"

I began to run backwards. Adrenaline running high. That was why I barely noticed My Sword burst into bright red flames. I pointed my wand at Death Eater, yelling "Stupify!" I then blocked a spell with the sword, twisting and shooting a stunner at the caster. I quickly glanced over my shoulder to see Harry had reached Cedrics Body. We needed a distraction, so I pointed my wand at the large headstone of Voldemort's father, and yelled "Bombarda!" the headstone exploded, giving us the distraction we needed. I then knelt beside Harry, using my wand hand to grasp Harry's shirt, wand still in hand, the other hand holding my sword, it raised in a defensive position. Harry then said "Accio" the Triwizard Cup flew towards us, Harry grabbed it and I felt pulled up again, we were going back.. We had escaped.

We landed hard on the ground. I looked around wildly, sword still aflame and risen. There were cheers, especially from the Gryffindor stands. I stood up and stumbled, still in complete shock of what had happened. Dumbledore and Fudge ran for us. "David! Harry!" Dumbledore exclaimed in a concerned. Harry mumbled "Voldemort.. He's back.. Voldemort's back." Dumbledore then asked urgently "Whats going on, what happened." I looked at him wildly, unable to properly string together a proper sentence "Wormtail.. Diggory.. Voldemort.. Killed... My Father.. Ghost.." Fudge then said "My god.. Thats Cedric Diggory.. He's dead." There were a bunch of people around us now.. Moody, Fudge, Dumbledore, Snape, McGonagal. "Stay here.." Dumbledore said as he went to head off Amos Diggory.. I pushed myself free. I then noticed my mother running up to me. I stumbled forward, Dropping the Sword of Gryffindor (its flames having gone out at the sight of Mom) She then hugged me saying "You did it David, you and Harry won! You survived!" I then mumbled "Dad.." She pulled away and looked at me with a confused expression "What? What about him sweety?" I then murmured, slowly coming back to myself "I saw him.. He appeared.. Out of Voldemort's wand... as a ghost. He told me..he was proud of me.. The dream I had.. He put that there before he left..he's the.. I'm the... Heir of Gryffindor.. I have to.. Stop Voldemort." She looked concerned "Hunny.. What did you see in there? What are you talking about?" I then said "The Cup..was a portkey. It brought us to him.. To Voldemort.. He wanted to kill us.. He killed Cedric.. He said.. He had his loyal servant... here at Hogwarts.." My eyes widdened "I have to tell Dumbledore!" I then looked around, and also saw that Harry was gone.. As was Professor Moody. I then ordered to my mom "Stay here!"

I ran over to Dumbledore and said "Professor! Harry is gone! Moody too! He's the spy! Voldemort said he had one here at Hogwarts! He's going to kill him Professor! Please believe me!" Dumbledore did a quick sweep of the crowd with his eyes and nodded " That is not the Alastar I know. Minerva, Severus, if you would please. David, stay here with the Minister for Magic." I shook my head "Not a chance" Dumbledore knew better than to argue with me, having lost that same argument 3 years previously. We ran to the castle, and up to Moody's office. Dumbledore bust through the door just as Moody was about to kill Voldemort and cast a stunning spell, spending moody flying back into his chair. I pushed forward, using my want for the Sword of Gryffindor to summon it into my hand. I then thrust it at Moody, the point inches from his throat. Dumbledore placed a hand on my shoulder "It is okay David.. He is stunned. You may put the sword down." While it wasn't an order, it didn't sound like a request. I then went and stood by Harry "You okay?" I asked. He was in shock and did not say anything. Once the adrenaline wore off, I found myself once again overwhelmed with the events of the night.

Dumbledore had Snape get some truth potion, and when we woke up Moody, we found out that it was actually Barty Crouch Jr. How he had been snuck out of Azkaban disguised as his mother, and his mother took his place in the cell. How he escaped his imprisonment by his father the night of the Quidditch World Cup, and used Harry's wand to cast the Dark Mark. How he attacked Moody the morning of the first day of term. His step by step plan to get Harry and I into the Graveyard for Voldemort to kill us. All of it. We even found the real Moody in a magic trunk, barely alive.

After all this Dumbledore brought us up to his office, where Sirius was waiting. We all sat down and Sirius stood behind us, in between us, as if he was standing guard to protect us. I placed the Sword of Gryffindor on Dumbledore's desk. Seconds later my mother entered, saying a thank you to Professor Flitwick, who had shown her the way. I looked back to see Sirius looking at her "So this is the woman who tamed the Lion huh?" My Mom looked at me quizzically. I sighed and murmured "Mom, this is Sirius Black, Harry's Godfather." She smiled slightly at him "Ahh, well it's a pleasure to meet you Mr Black." Sirius looked taken aback and being greeted so formally, but then smiled "Please, its Sirius. I'm sure ole Sharptooth would have even insisted you call me Padfoot.. If these were better circumstances I would insist we share stories of him.." Dumbledore nodded and said softly "Indeed, that will have to wait. For now, Harry, David, I would like you to tell me what exactly happened tonight after you touched the portkey in the maze." Sirius looked at him in shock "Right now? Surely that can wait until Morning Dumbledore. Look at them, they are exhausted.. Let them rest." My mom sat on the arm of my chair and threw her arm around me, saying "I agree with... Padfoot, My Son has been through a lot with this whole Tournament, let him sleep knowing its over." Dumbledore looked at both of us, before saying gently "If I thought I could help you two but enchanting you with a dreamless sleep, I would do it without hesitation. However I know better, numbing the pain for a while will make it worse when you finally have to feel it. You both have shown bravery beyond anything we could have expected of you. I am afraid I must ask you to demonstrate your courage one more time. Please tell me what happened." Fawkes, who had been on Harry's leg, cuddled a bit into him. I suddenly wished I had Hermes or Zeus here for me as well. I then said softly "Will it.. Help you figure out how to defeat him.. Properly this time?" Dumbledore nodded "But only if I know every detail.." I looked at Harry, who looked at me, and nodded.

Harry told most of the story, with me jumping in and filling in with my own parts, or if he missed something. We then made it to the figures coming out of Voldemort's wand, which turned out to be Priori Incantatum. The reverse spell effect, a side effect of Both Voldemort's and Harry's wands sharing the same core, from the same Pheonix.. Fawkes himself. I then said "So the.. Figures.. Weren't really them.. I didn't... speak to my dad?" Mom tightened her hold on me when I said that. Dumbledore said solemnly "No spell can reanimate the dead David. That being said, even us magical folk know frighteningly little of what happens when a person dies. It could be a piece of his soul was attached to the wand, only to be released tonight. So if you wish to believe you spoke with Ernest tonight, I will not rob you of that feeling." I then said "My Dad said.. He cast a spell on me before he left, so when I crossed back into England, I could witness his final moments.. He said.. He said he didn't want me to think he was truly evil." Dumbledore nodded, saying gently "I wondered why that dream came to you when it did. I chalked it up to seer blood somewhere in the Moore Bloodline. It is fair to say, that, that mystery, has finally been solved. I get the feeling there is more." I nodded "He said.. He was proud of me.." Sirius nodded "I knew Ernie very well, and I can assure you that is how he would feel." Mom cut in added "As am I.." Dumbledore looked over his half moon spectacles at me patiently. I then said softly "And that He was.. And I am.. The Heir of Godric Gryffindor." I could tell by the shock on both my mom and Sirius' faces, neither of them had known this.

Dumbledore was thoughtful for a moment, before he said "Alas, another Mystery solved. It is fair to say David, that you did speak with some form of Ernest tonight. It makes sense now, why he did not hesitate in taking the assignment from me all those years ago.. And why Voldemort took a special interest in him. It would be the Heir of Gryffindor's duty to quell an uprising by the Heir of Slytherin." I then asked "But.. What if I imagined it? Fantasying some sort of importance or something?" Dumbledore then gestured to the Sword of Gryffindor. "The evidence is right in front of you David. The Sword of Godric Gryffindor himself. It is said that any worthy Gryffindor can pull the sword out of the Sorting Hat, which of course is another of Gryffindor's old processions. However that particular skill stems from Godrics ability to conjure the sword from thin air himself. It is said that his kin would inherit that skill. You demonstrated that in front of me tonight. Only Gryffindor, and his decedents could make the blade catch aflame as well. It is without a doubt David, that you are the Heir of Gryffindor. I have no doubt news of that has already reached the daily prophet. I am sorry to say your life will change as a result. However I must draw back attention to Voldemort, Harry, what did the Echos do?" I was left to ponder this as Harry finished the story.

Dumbledore then commended us on our Bravery once more, and escorted us down to the hospital wing. Where we were greeted by the Weasleys and Hermione. Dumbledore commanded them not to pester us with questions, but allowed them to stay. He then gave us potions for a dreamless sleep. I took some gratefully, and soon closed my eyes, where I could finally not have to think about the implications for tonight.

I woke up with a start to aruging. Professor McGonagall, Minister Fudge, Snape and Professor Dumbledore were talking with raised voices about Crouch Jr having suffered the Dementors kiss because Fudge brought one into the Castle. Then Dumbledore and Fudge argued about Voldemort being back. Fudge then inferred Harry and I were not to be believed. This had Sirius growling at Fudge. My Mother then hissed (Which surprised the crap out of me) "Are you calling my son a liar?!" Dumbledore raised a hand to silence both of them before saying, fire in his eyes "Certainly I believe them. I heard Crouch's testimony, I then heard David and Harry's account of everything after they touched the Triwizard Cup. It makes sense, and accounts for everything that has happened since Bertha Jorkins disappearance." I smiled at Dumbledore standing up for us. Fudge was not having it though. He fought back, it turned ugly. In the end they parted ways at odds, Fudge refusing to take action to stop Voldemort. He quickly set two bags by our beds "Your winnings. 1 thousand galleons, each. There has never been a tie, and I am sure to hear about it tomorrow." He said shortly before leaving.

Dumbledore then began giving orders, sending Professors and family alike on missions. Before Sirius left he looked at the two of us "You will both see me very soon, but I've got to do what I can, after all I have some friends who's memories I need to live up to, but I know I speak for them when I say I'm proud, of both of you." Soon just Mrs Weasley, Mom, Ron and Hermione remained. Hermione slammed something on a table not far off, but then came and sat by my bed as Harry and a private moment with Mrs Weasley. Mom sat on the other side. Hermione said softly "Drink the rest of your potion David.. Sleep.. Its over, for now." I then said softly " I should have just taken the cup, when both Harry and.. And Cedric.. Offered it to me. Then he would be alive.. And Harry would still have his protection.. Voldemort might not even be back.." Mom said strictly "No. Don't think about that David. Its not your fault." I then felt a lump in my throat as I choked out "But now Dad's death means nothing.. You lost him.. For nothing.. All.. Because I didn't want.. Fame.." Mom leaned down and hugged me tightly and she said in a strangled voice "If you had.. I wouldn't have a son or a husband. Nothing can bring him back.. And I feel for the Diggory's, but I'm glad you didn't go for fame. I still have my son." My eyes burned, tears leaked through as I finally let the emotions of the night reach me. I felt both glad that my mom was here.. But at the same time I wished Hermione wasn't witnessing this. I however felt Hermione hold my hand tightly, she even kissed it softly. Both of them here, both the women I loved.. For I did.. I loved Hermione, there was no point in denying it now. Both of them hear made it so much easier. Finally my mom pulled away and Hermione held the rest of my potion "Sleep now David.. Its over.. Sleep." She then, surprisingly, poured the rest of the liquid into my mouth. I couldn't help but think how much it wasn't over.. It was in fact the beginning, my whole life had changed.. And not for the better. A storm was brewing, and what would come, would come. I would have to face them, side by side. Heir of Gryffindor and the Boy Who Lived.

I fell asleep, with my Mom holding one hand, and Hermione holding the other. A perfect bliss of nothingness.

AN: Well that was the longest chapter yet. So much content to get through, with no real obvious chapter splitter (at least following my currently formula for chapters) Lots of interesting content and revelations. I know some of you will be put off by this biggest reveal. I will assure you now, it will not outshine Harry's importance. In fact, I see the Harry Potter story as a 'prologue' to the true David Shuter, Heir of Gryffindor story. However this is the big revelation I have been working my way up to for 15 chapters, the theme of the story will switch up focus going forward, away from the mysteries of his father, and onto David coming to terms with who HE is. Love, heartbreak, tragedy, rebellion, acceptance.. All these themes are in his future. I want to thank everyone who has read up until this point, and hope you will continue to read on. Please, leave some reviews for me, I want to know what you, the reader, think. Who knows.. Might give me inspiration on potential changes to the story/character from what I have planned (I'm also partly at a loss what to do with him for his 5th and 6th year so who knows, you could help with that?)