DISCLAIMER: Some writing here is pulled directly from both Goblet of Fire and Half-Blood Prince. That writing belongs to Rowling.

Please Read:

I've received a few anonymous reviews on FFN that have pointed out that I'm a bit of a hypocrite. Writing our Hermione simply because I believe her plot usefulness is gone is lazy on my part. I like the drama I've introduced here, and I believe it to be a realistic reaction to how Harry and Ron have behaved. So I'm keeping it. But I'm not writing Hermione out as I had previously said. This doesn't change the story at all, just gives me an interesting challenge as a writer to find and explore other aspects of Hermione's character. More importantly, I now have plans for her and stuff she's going to do later. I'm already writing an outline for her character arc, which will coincide with Ron a bit in the coming chapters.

I also feel that this is a good time to point out that this is NOT a RonxHermione story. Nor is it a DracoxHermione story. I'm not writing a partner for Hermione. At least, not in detail. I have someone in mind, but... I won't reveal that. I love Ron and Hermione, but I really wanted to do something different with Ron this time around. Hopefully, it's refreshing and original.

Chapter 14: The Four Champions

'I can make things move without touching them. I can make animals do what I want them to do, without training them. I can make bad things happen to people who annoy me. I can make them hurt if I want to.'

Ginny woke with a start. Panting and shivering all at once. The familiar icy chill settled at the base of her neck as she got out of bed and padded over to the small bathroom attached to the dormitory.

That was but another of the ever-increasing flood nightmares that plagued her sleeping hours. She splashed water on her face and looked up at her own reflection. She didn't look awful, all things considered. She knew that Harry had been suspicious of her tiredness, but he had yet to call her out on it. What bothered her is that she had started to lay out the memories on a timeline that she knew to be accurate. What was more irritating was the fact that some of the memories simply didn't fit with her prior theory.

Originally, upon first beginning to dismantle the mental block, she was now certain she herself had created, she was convinced that the memories ended with Myrtle's death.

Except that wasn't true.

Many of her nightmares had taken place in times well beyond Tom's fifth year. They all came in flashes. Typically accompanied by blinding green lights and a sense of satisfaction. If she was honest with herself, she was pretty sure the horcrux within the Diary was showing her glimpses into the creation of the others. Though none of what she saw could be deciphered. All she knew is that they existed. Some repeated, some were new. It amounted to a rage inducing mystery because no matter how hard Ginny tried to focus on each glimpse, she could never tell how many he had actually made. And just as importantly, she couldn't tell what they were.

Letting out a frustrated sigh, she ambled back over to her bed. Tomorrow would be the full moon, and there was no flu that Harry had to hide it. The lack of time Hermione was spending around Harry made it seem less and less plausible for the girl to figure it out. Ginny truly would have rung her neck by now, but Harry had told her in a few short words that their falling apart was mostly his and Ron's fault, and that he was working on it.

Working on it. She scoffed at the idea. It had been a full month and Harry had yet to pluck up the courage to face his wayward friend. She finally lay down, and let her eyes shut to a gloriously Tom Riddle free sleep.

The fourth years walked into their defense class of the nineteenth of October in good spirits. They had just had an excellent transfiguration class, and Lupin had promised a practical lesson. One student in particular was overjoyed at the prospect of another Defense class. In fact, he seemed a little overenthusiastic.

'Mate, you're spending too much time with Colin. You're bouncing off the bloody walls.' said Ron, slightly irritable at his best friend's behaviour.

Harry just laughed harder and slapped Ron on the shoulder. 'I love you, Ron.'

'Er… right.'

They sat themselves down, now accompanied by Lavender Brown, who seemed quite taken with Ron, instead of Hermione. Harry absolutely despised Lavender, but he had yet to say anything. The day of the full moon, however, was a different story entirely.

'Can you just… piss off. Please? For once? I don't want to hear your voice, it hurts my ears.' Harry said, pointing an accusatory finger at Lavender and looking supremely irritated.

'Harry!' Ron cried, though he was trying to hide a smirk. Truthfully, he didn't enjoy Brown's company either, but this was still highly unusual Harry-behaviour. 'Are you alright mate? You sure you don't need to see Pomfrey?'

Harry just shook his head and glared and Lavender. 'I'd like Hermione back. Thank you very much. You're in her spot.'

Lavender had already looked upset, but now she was furious. Cheeks flushed she stared right back at Harry defiantly. 'Oh, I'm so sorry that I'm not the love of your life: Hermione Granger!' she screeched.

Harry burst out into laughter. The whole class's attention was on Harry now. Then, when another person started laughing, all their eyes turned to him. It was Professor Lupin. He was trying to hide it, a hand covering his mouth as though he was about to vomit, but instead his shoulders were shaking. He lowered his hand and attempted to compose himself.

'Don't look at us like that, Moony. You'll only embarrass yourself.' Harry cried from the back of the class. Laughing at absolutely nothing. Ron was not extremely concerned for his friend, looking around for any clue as to what the fuck was going on.

'Harry, please calm yourself.' Professor Lupin said, though his voice was laced with humour.

Harry sobered slightly, a mischievous glint in his eye. 'Calm? I thought we lived on the wild side?'

Remus dropped his head in his hands and fought valiantly not to laugh. Harry had shown signs of hyperactivity before, and on the day of the full moon. But this was something else. He must not have slept well, because he was pretty much delirious. Speaking through his chuckling, Remus asked Hermione. 'Hermione, if you could please take Mr. Potter to the hospital wing? I think he's… well she'll know what to do. Stay with him until he's… repaired.' Remus snorted; the class began to laugh as well. Harry seemed confused at everyone's amusement. From his perspective, only he should be enjoying himself at the moment. 'Will you do that for me?'

Hermione, never one to go against a teacher, nodded and grabbed Harry by the arm. 'Come on, Harry. Let's go.'

Remus sighed as he watched them leave. Hopefully his sending of Hermione could begin to rectify Harry's mistakes.

The walk to the hospital wing was strange to say the least. Harry continued to begin speaking to Hermione, only to stop mid-sentence and fall into an awkward silence. Then, he'd look deep into her eyes, open his mouth as if to say something, only to once again snap his jaw shut and continue walking.

Finally, Hermione had had enough. 'What is wrong with you, Harry?'

Harry bowed his head, stuffing his hands in the pockets of his robes. 'I've been keeping secrets.' he said, guiltily.

Hermione recognized the fact that Harry was not of stable state of mind, but perhaps it was worth getting the truth for once. 'I figured.'

Harry sighed. Long and expressive. 'And I've been a terrible friend.'

Hermione looked up at that. Generally, she considered Harry to be the more observant of the two boys she'd called… no, that she still thought of as best friends. But she'd never thought he'd pick up on anything this fast on his own. 'I've… well me and Ron but I suppose he should apologize separately.' Harry stopped by a stone archway that overlooked the lake. The giant squid could be seen just below the surface. Hermione cocked her head to the side, walking to stand next to him. 'I've kept things from you… even though I know you'd understand. I know you wouldn't judge me for it. Hell, you'd probably be fascinated by it.' he chuckled lowly before falling silent again.

Hermione waited for him to say more. His previous mirth within the classroom seemed to have evaporated completely. 'Harry, shouldn't we go to Madam Pomfrey… you didn't seem fine in class.'

Harry waved a hand dismissively. 'I don't need a calming draught. What I need is some Gryffindor courage.' Harry sunk to the floor. His head leaning back against the wall. 'I suppose I should start with the more pressing matter. The thing that I think is bothering you the most at the moment.'

Hermione slid down the wall to sit next to him. She folded her hands together and rested them on her lap. Legs crossed.

'I've come to realize that we've sort of used you. In a way. And I think you see most of your worth in how you can help us. Now we've basically shown you that we've had it in us the whole time and you probably think we don't want you around anymore.'

Hermione frowned. It was true, she had felt that way. 'Yes, but you two haven't really tried to talk with me much either.'

Harry ran a hand through his hair. 'Yeah… I suppose we haven't. I just wanted – no, needed – to apologize. Because friends don't treat each other like that. I barely talked to anyone over the summer. I only wrote letters to Ginny. I understand why you'd feel… discarded, I suppose.'

'I meant to ask you that… Why Ginny? I know you gave some response at the manor but…' she trailed off. Harry must understand that his vague reasoning was not a true answer.

She was startled to see a sad smile cross Harry's face, his brow furrowing. 'She understands.' was all he said. Hermione's eyes widened in comprehension. Truly, she hadn't given much thought to the effects these adventures would have had on Harry. Sure, she herself had nightmares, but she'd never had to face all the trials at their worst like Harry had. It made sense for Harry to speak to another of around his age that could relate. That knew what it was like to live through hell and back and come out victorious, or more accurately: alive. Hermione nodded to show she understood, and Harry let out a shaky breath.

'And I reckon you want to know why I had such a sudden personality shift at the end of last term?' Hermione nodded. 'Voldemort… he left an imprint of himself in me. Like the diary.' Hermione gasped. Trying to catch Harry's line of sight but he continued to stare off into the distance. 'It was destroyed at the end of term by… well… I'm assuming you'd also like to know how I've grown this way. I know you'd have seen through the nutritional potions excuse.'

Hermione scowled. 'I didn't, actually. Because I trusted my best friend to tell me the truth.'

Harry cringed but nodded. He knew he deserved that. 'Right well… I'm a werewolf.'

He said it so quietly, so timidly that Hermione might not have heard him. She felt as though all the air had been swept from her lungs and she stood in the vacuum of space. Her eyes widened and her jaw slackened, but Harry just stared off into the distance. With a start she realized the reasoning behind Harry's strange behaviour. Today was the full moon. Professor Lupin was acting oddly too, they must have already taken their potions and were just waiting for classes to be over. 'Oh Harry.' she said softly, laying a hand on his shoulder. 'I'm so sorry.'

She didn't really have to ask how it had happened. Everything began to fit into place. The chunk missing from his arm the night after Sirius's escape. The strange behaviour. His sudden shift in both physical appearance and personality. Though was it truly a change in personality? Or was it more of an accentuation of his previous characteristics, unhindered by whatever dark magic Voldemort had left on Harry.

'No, Hermione you don't understand. At first, it was horrible. This sinking feeling that nothing would ever be the same. Which is true, but… it was more of a "End of the World" type feeling and now… Now it's the best thing that's ever happened to me.' he seemed ashamed to admit it, as though it was the first time he himself had voiced these thoughts.

Hermione, for her part, was shocked at Harry's revelation. She couldn't see how this could be positive.

Harry shook his head to clear his thoughts. 'It's not-… it is horrible. I'd rather never have had to suffer from it but… It's gotten me so much closer to Remus, Padfoot… it's been amazing.' she couldn't help but notice his stumble after mentioning Sirius. As though there was another name he'd refused to mention. 'There's a lot of other stuff but that's the main thing.'

Hermione sat in silence for a long time. Seeing her friend in a whole new light. 'So… what you said about you having held yourself back in previous years… That was true? You're trying now because you want to make Sirius and Professor Lupin proud?'

Harry nodded and smiled sadly. 'I know it's stupid… but it feels really good to do well.'

Hermione smiled back. 'Now you understand why I'm the way that I am.'

Harry shook his head vigorously. 'No, Hermione, you're fucking mental. Constantly studying… not for me. But I am magically talented, I suppose. So is Ron. I wish he'd noticed that sooner. He's second-best in defense for our year, did you know that?'

Hermione sighed and nodded. Harry chose to ignore this part of Hermione for now. The part that was genuinely upset at her not being the best. After what felt like hours, Hermione asked her final true question. 'Why are you telling me this now?'

Running a hand through his long, black hair, Harry let out a shaky laugh. 'Because, as I most aptly put it, it all comes down to trust. And… well I've been a shit friend, and I've betrayed your trust. I might as well show you that I trust you so maybe… just maybe, we can fix this.' he indicated the gap between them. 'So we can be proper friends again.'

Hermione looked down at her hands. 'I'd like that, Harry, I really would… but you need to understand that-' she was cut off by a crash down the corridor. Shaking herself slightly, she continued. 'You need to know that it's not going to be the same anymore. You and Ron… you both really hurt me. And despite what you say, it's hard to believe that the way you treated me these past three years was anything more than… well… using me.'

Harry sighed in defeat and nodded. 'I know. And I mean, realistically, we did use you. So yeah, we treated you horribly but…' he got to his feet and offered his hand down to her. 'To new beginnings, I suppose.' he smiled sheepishly at her as she grabbed his hand, nodded and smiled, before hoisting herself to her feet.

'Before I make any mistakes, who knows about your condition?' she asked in a tone resembling that of a businessperson.

'Ginny, Draco, the staff and Sirius. That's it. So, I need you to keep this as quiet as possible. I want to tell Ron myself.'

Hermione nodded her understanding, though she was slightly confused at the fact that Malfoy knew about it. 'Why haven't you told Ron yet?'

Harry let out a frustrated groan. 'I really don't want to talk about this with you and her, Hermione.'

Hermione didn't know who "her" was. Maybe it was Ginny. Yes, that made sense.

The pair made their way back to the defense classroom in companionable, though slightly uncomfortable, silence. Right before entering, Hermione stopped Harry. 'Goodluck tonight?' she said, tentatively.

Harry grinned at her. 'Oh, me and Remus will enjoy our moonlit stroll, believe me.'

Hermione chuckled lightly before pushing the doors open.

'It's always best to have company when you're dealing with a Boggart. He becomes confused. Now, before we begin, Ginny may I speak with you outside of class for a moment?' Ginny eyed Remus warily. She had grown to trust and respect the man over the course of the prior school year and the summer. But he was directly pulling her out of a class in which she'd have to face her greatest fear. She nodded and followed him to the door. 'If you all could just read the passage on Boggarts on page fifty-three!' he called over his shoulder to the rest of the class.

Once he and Ginny were out of the classroom, he laid his hands on her shoulders delicately and smiled sympathetically at her. 'Now, I'm talking with you about this because last year, Harry was a bit offended that I didn't let him face the Boggart.' Ginny opened her mouth to make it quite clear that she would face whatever horror came out of that wardrobe, thank you very much, when he interrupted her. 'I do not think you are weak, but I have a good feeling that whatever is going to come out of there will be highly personal. You are the only other member of this school who nearly fainted on the train from the dementor. No one came close other than you and Harry. I reckon there's a good chance that you only avoided it because of your mental block.' Ginny's eyes widened at the fact that he knew about that, before realizing that Harry must have told him. This didn't bother her as much as it would have if say, Ron had told Lupin.

'Now, I am going to ask you; do you still wish to face it? In front of the class? Because if so… I want you to go first. If you don't want to show your fear to the world, you can face the boggart after class on Friday. Just me and you.'

Ginny thought for a moment. Part of her, a strong part of her, wanted to hide it. Make sure no one ever knew what Tom Riddle had done to her. But then again, would anyone recognize Tom? Surely not. And even so, if she faced him in front of the class, it would only prove to herself that she was ready. That she wasn't afraid of a dying memory.

Except it wasn't a memory. It was a piece of his soul.

She shuddered but nodded all the same. 'I want to fight it. I want to face him.' It was a testament to how well Remus had come to know her that he knew not to ask whether or not her fear would be too frightening, like he had with Harry, but that it would be information on her past that she wouldn't want spread about the school. That he assumed her fear would be cause for concern because she wouldn't want people to know her well enough to understand how to get to her. She smiled at him, and they walked back into the classroom.

Remus got everyone's attention and formed a line behind Ginny. Taking a deep breath, she nodded to Remus to open the wardrobe. For a moment, nothing appeared. It was as though the wardrobe was an abyss. Then, the cold, calculating voice of Tom Riddle rang through the air. The candles flickered out, but Ginny stood strong. 'Ginevra…' he called. His voice almost succeeded in getting her to squirm where she stood, but she refused. 'You know, when I left you… I so wanted to leave a piece of me behind…'

The class was watching with wide eyes as a black mist seemed to unfurl from within the wardrobe, swinging around the classroom and enveloping everyone in darkness.

'But you know what I felt was a better reminder, Ginevra? Guilt.' the last word echoed around the room.

Ginny closed her eyes and took in deep, calming breaths. It was feeding off her insecurities. That was a low blow. Even for Tom. 'No!' She thought. 'This isn't Tom.'

'You still wake with blood on your hands. You still wake to the screams of Potter.' finally, he emerged from the wardrobe. His robes perfectly tailored, the prefect badge glinting in the light. It was revolting to think that this boy was in his fifth year. 'Because he would have died for you. He almost did… But I felt it better to leave you both scarred. Marked.'

Ginny shook her head. Somewhere she could hear Remus telling her to say the incantation, but a part of her, deep down, wanted to hear what the boggart had to say. 'You had so many uses, Ginevra.'

Finally, Ginny let herself tremble slightly. He walked closer, his hand reaching out to rest on her cheek. He had a look of pity on his face. As though he really cared. 'What would happen if he ever found out? If Harry Potter learned the truth.' he backed away from her and walked back into the wardrobe, only to stumble out again as Harry. He looked around until his emerald eyes landed on Ginny. This time it was easier to hear Remus calling for her to just say the spell! But she held on a little longer.

'I can't believe you felt that way. I can't believe you let yourself become this…' Boggart-Harry looked at her with terrified eyes. 'How could anyone… any sane person, feel that way.'

'Fuck. You.' Ginny said through gritted teeth before pointing her wand towards the boggart and thinking of nothing more than for it to go away. A spell shot from her wand without having said a word. It hit Boggart-Harry square in the chest before disintegrating onto the floor. The room came back into focus, and the world around her crashed into her senses. The classroom was eerily quiet. There was a ringing in her ears as her chest heaved with the effort of her heavy breathing. Before anyone could say anything, she turned and walked briskly to her desk, grabbed the strap of her bag and hoisted it onto her shoulder before fleeing from the room. She had never felt so angry.

As classes had yet to finish, the halls were quite empty of any students. She had left the class without a thought as to where she would go or what she would do. Right now, she just needed to cool off.

She marched into the entrance hall and walked determinedly towards the shore of the lake. There was a tree there, a tree many students used as a study spot, steeled away snogging sessions, or Tom's favourite people watching location. Shuddering slightly, she made her way to the tree. For fucks sake it had been two years. She could sit here like any other student.

Plopping herself down she inspected the many engravings on the magical tree. There were charms you could produce where no matter how many new layers of bark grew, your engraving would remain on the surface. Naturally, this allowed years' worth of student's writings to be preserved. It was a fascinating tree, and most would never care to give much thought to any of the messages left behind. Ginny found it captivating. Hundreds of lives, hundreds of people all with stories to tell. Greatest fears, greatest strengths, favourite foods and colours. They each had worries and faults but all that was left behind of them was their name or a silly message. She had analyzed this tree quite a bit last year. The tree in the diary was much less populated than it was now, and it had been a spot of Hogwarts that was the easiest to distinguish in the modern day. This was real, she could feel it and touch it, and it had evolved and changed since the diary, and it continued to receive additions. This was not static like it had been in that time capsule, this was new.

She ran her fingers along the many messages left behind by The Marauder's. It was strange knowing that Sirius Black and Peter Pettigrew were once close enough friends to have written most of their messages together. Sometimes it was accompanied by Moony or Prongs but for the most part, this natural graffiti was all Wormtail and Padfoot. Ginny had sort of intended on branching out this term, making friends, making a name for herself in some way. But all those plans were dead now. A war was most definitely on the horizon, and though Harry had said that Tom may not know about her yet, there was still a chance. And if Voldemort acted anything like he had oh so long ago, he would not let a chance remain intact.

She heard the crunching of twigs and the first sound of a footstep on the gravel beach, and she turned to the side. There stood Ron, a ways behind him were Harry and Hermione, both giving Ron and apprehensive look.

'Hey Ginny,' he said quietly. He sat right beside her and gazed out to the lake. He never once looked at her, just continued to stare.

'Did Harry and Hermione send you over?' she asked. It wasn't like Ron to think of others, despite what Harry told her.

Ron smiled and finally looked at her, 'Oh, well, yeah… but still. You were out here moping,'

Ginny nodded and turned away from him, watching as a lone tentacle rose from the water and wiggled until disappearing beneath the surface once more. Like some strange dance.

'Any reason for your moping?' he asked.

Ginny sighed. 'You wouldn't understand,' at his apprehensive look she shook her head, smiling slightly, 'No really, you wouldn't understand. It's just Chamber stuff,'

'Chamber Stuff' Had been the term that Fred and George had coined behind her back whenever she'd have an episode. An episode being a reminder of something she'd done. The chickens at the Burrow had been an issue, but after their trip to Egypt, which Ginny was now certain was a therapy trip for her without having told her, she'd been much better.

Ron cocked his head, 'I am your brother… I know you tell Harry these things, but I'm here when you want to finally talk about it.' he rose to his feet and leaned against the tree, part of her wondered why he hadn't just gone back to his friends, but the other part was sinking in a pit of shame. 'Whenever you finally talk about it.' She hadn't told any of her family what really happened. She hadn't even told Harry. She knew that one day she'd have to explain exactly how he'd gained her trust, or how she'd followed certain commands. It was difficult keeping secrets, she understood how Harry felt with his lycanthropy. If you feel tainted, why make others see you as such. 'Oh, and by the way… we're in Care of Magical Creature right now, so if you'd like to join us…' he left the question open ended and Ginny grasped at the metaphorical rope that had been thrown down to her. Getting to her feet she looked at Ron, then to a now smiling Harry and Hermione.

'Yeah, alright. Hagrid won't mind,' this was true, of course, Hagrid would never push Ginny away.

They walked towards Harry and Hermione who fell into step with them as she followed them back to Hagrid's.

'Boggart lesson?' Harry whispered to her as quietly as he could. She gave him an imperceptible nod, but he nodded back. 'Remus told me he'd be asking you about that… I feel he knows you pretty well.'

'Yeah, he does,' Ginny whispered back. They got to the class and Hagrid smiled and waved at Ginny but that was the only recognition she'd received. The rest of the class just stared at her, Draco was sneering at her, as were every member of Pansy Parkinson's gang, save Daphne Greengrass who seemed to be the only member of Slytherin house doing any work.

'What exactly are you doing in your year?' Ginny asked her brother and his friends.

'We would be doing skrewts, but Hagrid's done something to them, and he doesn't think them safe anymore,' Ron supplied. 'Honestly, the last thing I'd consider those beasts is safe. If they aren't safe in Hagrid's eyes, I don't even want to know.' Harry and Hermione both nodded gravely, as though this was quite the serious situation. Ginny grinned. It would have been nice to be in Ron's year, she knew most of his classmates, and even though she loved Colin, the rest of her year was rubbish. The girls still didn't like her, maybe it had to do with the boys hand me down robes she wore, or the fact that she liked Quidditch. Either way, it pissed her off that of all the dormitories, she had to get the one with the prissy girls. She was not the only one who liked Quidditch, most witches and wizards did, but she landed herself with two tossers.

'So, now we're doing snakes,' said Harry with a sideways glance at Ginny. She nodded but kept her eyes determinedly on the pit they were approaching.

'Oh great, HE came back. Honestly, this ginger.'

'Oooh, but there's a new ginger.'

'I could've sworn I've seen this one.'

The voices were all unfamiliar, but Ginny started looking around her to see who was talking. Harry began to chuckle quietly and Hermione and Ron both looked sharply at him. 'What's so funny?' Ron asked.

Harry shook his head, still smiling. 'The snakes, they're taking the mickey out of you,' he said, laughing outright now.

Then it hit her. The voices were not coming from inside her head, but from the snakes. Her eyes widened as she began to truly piece this together. How had Tom left her with such a skill? The diary was destroyed, right? Why was she still a parselmouth?

'Er, Ginny? You alright?' she shook herself and turned to the worried expression of three fourth years. Hermione seemed the most confused, Harry was giving her a knowing look, and Ron was concerned. He probably thought the sight of snakes was what made her zone out.

'Yeah, I'm fine. Harry, can I talk to you for a moment?' she hated how high her voice went but Harry nodded and followed him to behind Hagrid's hut. 'I can hear them. Why can I hear them!' she said in a panicked voice. 'The diary is destroyed, right? I shouldn't be able to do this.'

Harry grabbed her by her shoulders and shook her slightly, he seemed to be fighting back a smile. She glared at him, nothing about this was funny. 'Remember how I had a horcrux inside of me?' she nodded. 'Well, I can still speak parseltongue, I can still understand snakes… once you've performed magic… or once your magic has blended with another's, you keep that forever. I asked my mum this just now, believe me it's true. I've got loads of her magic in me, just as how I have loads of Voldemort's.'

Ginny nodded and looked down and the muddy ground. 'I don't want it,' she looked at her hands, the hands she had spent hours washing and scrubbing after she had left the chamber. She could remember how they stung, how they bled after the constant assault of her own volition. Her mother had come in and repaired the skin but there were still faint lines across the back of her hands. It looked as though someone had rubbed their hand against dragon hide.

'I used to think so too. Especially after I learned that I got it from Voldemort… but it's kind of fun,' Ginny shot her head up to look at Harry.

'Fun?' she asked.

Harry nodded. 'Yeah. It's like this secret language. We can speak to each other all hissy like.'

A reluctant smile spread across her face. 'Hissy?'

Harry grinned broadly. 'Yeah! Watch, those snakes out there are a laugh. Believe me. They've been complaining about your brother all morning it's bloody hilarious. They say he holds them funny,' he let go of her shoulders and indicated with his head to return to the others. She hesitated.

'Are you sure? I mean… it's sort of got a reputation,'

Harry rolled his eyes. 'Well, let's change that reputation then.' He nodded eagerly. 'Come on! Those snakes are fun you've got to come meet them.'

Ginny smiled at his enthusiasm and followed him back to the snake pit. There were three snakes, all were the same breed, though Ginny had no idea what that was. All three heads looked up at Harry expectantly.

'Who is she?' the middle one asked.

'I sense she is a speaker,' said the one on the left.

'I am.'Ginny hissed back. It didn't sound like hissing to her ears, however, and Ron and Hermione's eyes went wide. The rest of the class had gone awfully quiet, but Ginny didn't notice.

'You… seem upset,' the middle snake said.

'I was, but Harry sorted me out,' Ginny replied. Harry smiled.

'Well, she was prattling on about how evil parseltongue is, but here we are,' Harry hissed to the snakes.

Ron and Hermione were not the only ones staring at Harry and Ginny in shock. The entire rest of the class was watching, gobsmacked. Hagrid seemed less than phased, and continued on maintaining his pumpkin patch, as the Halloween feast two days away.

'You are attractingggg a lot of attention,' said the snake on the right. Harry and Ginny both looked up and took in the sight of the fourth year Care of Magical Creatures class watching them with terrified eyes. Harry was pleased to note that Draco seemed to have come close to wetting himself. What bothered him, however, was the Greengrass girl. She was watching Harry and Ginny with a contemplative look, as though analyzing the situation. Frowning Harry turned to Ginny who was white as a sheet.

'Weasley's a parselmouth too?' Pansy blurted out.

'Just stay calm, we both know that what we can do isn't dark magic,' Harry hissed to Ginny, trying to reassure her. Ginny turned to Harry and nodded at him in understanding.

'Well… I suppose this is proof then,' at Harry and Ginny stared at her in confusion, Pansy elaborated. 'Proof that it wasn't Draco's father who possessed you. Proof that Potter set Mr. Malfoy up to cover up the fact that you're both dark lords in the making.' she gave them a triumphant look. Ginny would have clammed up, but Harry just started laughing.

'Merlin Pansy, you're a fucking idiot,' he said through tears of laughter. 'I took so much veritaserum that I got sick afterwards! It was impossible for me to have lied about Lucy.'

The words finally seemed to hit Pansy's brain, because she scowled and turned away, as did most of her gang, once again, save for Daphne Greengrass who just stared at them. Malfoy seemed pleased that Pansy had been put in her place, even if it had come from two of his most hated people.

Class wrapped up not ten minutes later, and Harry, Ginny, Ron and Hermione made their way up the steps to the Great Hall for dinner. Upon entering the Hall, they received many eyes upon them. Particularly Ginny, who was receiving more confused and inquisitory glances than anything threatening.

They sat themselves down and began eating. Tomorrow was the thirtieth of October; the other schools would arrive. The Triwizard Tournament was about to begin.

'Well, this is anticlimactic.' said Ginny, a day later, as the last of the Durmstrang students entered the Great Hall.

'Anticlimactic? Anticlimactic? Ginny are you mental? That's Victor Krum! And bloody hell, that girl from beauxbatons has to be part veela.' Ron went on and on about their clothing, Krum, the veela girl, and the Tournament as they made their way to their seats. Ginny turned to Harry and saw him looking as though he was on the verge of sneezing.

'Veela?' she whispered softly to him. Concern etched in her features. Harry nodded silently before sitting down across from Ron and Colin, in between Hermione and Ginny. Hermione had yet to truly reconcile with Ron, who remained oblivious to his mistakes. He'd noticed Hermione and Harry at least talking. Though what Hermione had said had remained true. Things were different, and Harry didn't know how to fix his mistake.

'Harry, that's Karkaroff. He was a death eater back in the first war. I don't know what's happened to him since, but judging by our other ex-death eaters I'd be wary.'

'What about Snape? He seems to have changed sides properly.'

'We both know that's different. Just… this tournament is likely going to be tampered with… just be cautious, alright?'

'Yes mum.' Harry thought back, rolling his eyes but smiling all the same.

'Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, ghosts and – most particularly – guests,' said Dumbledore, beaming around at the foreign students. 'I have great pleasure in welcoming you all to Hogwarts. I hope and trust that your stay here will be both comfortable and enjoyable.'

The veela girl, still clutching a muffler around her head gave what was unmistakeably a derisive laugh.

'No one's making you stay!' Hermione hissed, bristling at her. Harry snorted into his pumpkin juice and Hermione slapped him on the arm.

'The Tournament will be officially opened at the end of the feast,' said Dumbledore. 'I now invite you all to eat, drink, and make yourselves at home!' he sat down and Harry saw Karkaroff lean forward at once and engage him in conversation.

'Well, if he's so friendly with Dumbledore, he can't be that bad, can he?'

'I think once you've suffered under his cruciatus, you'd be a little tetchy with him.' Harry scowled; his mind completely made up. Karkaroff shouldn't be walking free. He picked up his fork and stabbed his chicken aggressively before shoving it his mouth, still frowning.

'Harry? Are you alright?' Colin asked from across the table.

'I'm fine.' said Harry. Ginny snorted and Harry shot her a glare. She mouthed 'I'm fine,' to him while smiling and rolling her eyes.

Harry chose to ignore her. Hermione, who had seemed to be leaning on starting a conversation, finally gave in. 'So, over the last month or so I've been… well I've a started a sort of club.'

'What kind of club, Hermione?' said Colin. Harry would have responded, though he was still brooding over Karkaroff, and Ginny and Ron were both quiet around Hermione. For very different reasons. Ron felt ashamed after Harry had bluntly told him that they were both terrible friends and needed to apologize. Ginny was staunchly in the other camp. Believing that Hermione shouldn't feel so insecure. Harry and Ginny had avoided talking about Hermione over the past few weeks. He didn't like the way Ginny spoke of his friend.

Hermione sighed in relief at Colin having answered her. It was strange, they'd formed a sort of bond over their muggle past. Both reveling in conversation they could share with each other that just wasn't very common at Hogwarts. Things like film, music, and other such topics. 'Well, you see, I learned that this food, all of it, is made by house elves. In the kitchens!' she said hotly, focusing on Harry and Colin. 'There are slaves at Hogwarts!'

Colin paled and Harry frowned. 'Well, that's not necessarily true, Hermione. I mean, Flappy and Floppy both love their jobs and I treat them like members of the family.' said Harry.

Hermione glared at him. 'And do you pay them?' she retorted hotly. At Harry's sheepish look, she nodded. 'Exactly!' she hissed.

'Wait, Harry, you have house elves, and you don't pay them?' said Colin, eying Harry sceptically.

'Oh, that's rubbish!' said Ron, finally entering the conversation. 'No one pays their elves. That's just how it works.'

Colin shook his head. 'No, I'm with Hermione on this. I always thought they were paid.'

Hermione smiled at Colin. 'Thank you! It's truly awful Colin, they are so miserable, but if they show their displeasure, they have to hurt themselves. Its barbaric. Dobby is freed and he's deliriously happy. Remember Dobby, Harry?'

Harry shook his head, clearing his wolfish hearing of the overload Hermione had just blurted into his ears. 'Yeah, how is he? Is he working here?'

Hermione nodded. 'And he's being paid by Dumbledore.'

Harry frowned. 'I suppose I should offer payment to Floppy and Flappy. I mean, I sort of assumed that the whole slavery thing was only with families like the Malfoy's. I figured Gringotts just sent out money to my elves every month or something.'

Hermione smiled approvingly at Harry. 'I think that's a good idea, Harry.'

Harry nodded while Ron watched in disgust, muttering under his breath.

At that moment, a voice said, 'Excuse me, are you wanting ze bouillabaisse?' It was the girl, the veela girl, that had laughed at Dumbledore.

Harry's nose wrinkled and he started shaking his head, as though clearing it of a swarm of flies. Both Ron and Colin went purple. The two of them opened their mouths to reply, but nothing came out except a faint gurgling noise.

'Yeah, have it,' said Ginny, pushing the dish towards the veela girl. A subtle jealousy bubbled in the pit of her stomach. The girl was absolutely gorgeous. Blue eyes, perfect teeth, silvery blonde hair that fell almost to her waist. She was perfect. Needless to say, Ginny gave the French dish a rather vindictive shove.

'She's a veela!' Ron said angrily. 'Who the hell would let one loose in a school?'

Harry scowled while Hermione said, 'Of course she isn't! I don't see anyone else gaping at her like an idiot!'

'Well, Colin was,' Ginny said, smirking as her friend blushed. 'Bloke was over the moon. Seems like Hermione was a little too focused in on Ron.'

Hermione went pink and Colin frowned slightly but continued to eat.

'I'm telling you, that's no normal girl!' said Ron, leaning sideways so he could keep a clear view of her. 'They don't make them like that at Hogwarts!'

'They make them OK at Hogwarts,' said Harry, without thinking. 'I mean, Hannah Abbot, Hermione, that Ravenclaw seeker, Katie, Ginny, the Greengrass girl…' he looked up to the ceiling deep in thought, 'What's her face, Edgecombe, she's not half bad…' he paused looking down and around at the occupants of the Great Hall, 'Alicia is alright… Percy's girlfriend, Pennelope was decent…'

'Exactly, see what I mean? They're all 'Half bad' or 'Alright'. Beauxbatons has veela and would you look at the boys there?'

Harry smirked. 'Didn't know you swung that way, Ron.'

'You know that's not what I meant,' said Ron, scowling. 'I'm just saying that compared to us, they're like the models in witch weekly!'

'Oh, are you a frequent reader of theirs Ronald?' said Ginny in a teasing voice.

Ron blushed slightly but turned back to his food. Then, he looked up. 'Hang on… Ginny? Why'd you name her! And Hermione?' the fact that Harry had named Hermione seemed to bother him more than Harry having listed off Ron's own sister.

Harry and Ron's conversation seemed to be taking place in a completely different world as both Hermione and Ginny watched in amusement as the two continued their conversation.

'What do you mean, 'why would you name Hermione',' said Colin, joining in. 'I mean, in case you haven't noticed… she is a girl.'

Ron frowned, 'I know that. I'm just saying…' he trailed off and looked at Hermione strangely. Ginny had to work very hard not to laugh.

'And Harry named Ginny because like most guys in the school, they've noticed that she isn't eleven anymore,' Colin added, going back to his chicken.

Harry made a hand gesture towards Colin as if to say, 'Thank you, someone gets it.' Ginny couldn't help the smile that traced her features.

'There're people who have it for my sister?' said Ron, incredulously. 'Since the fuck when?'

Harry snorted at Ron's language, but Colin frowned. 'Well, they did until today. After the boggart and now with the whole snake thing, people are terrified of her.'

Harry would have expected Ginny to be upset by this, but she just shrugged and rolled her eyes. 'Good thing I'm not looking at dating prospects,' she didn't have to ask about how everyone knew about her being a parselmouth. It had been a day since it had happened, and today was a Saturday, so there was plenty of time for the story to get out.

Once the golden plates had been wiped clean, Dumbledore stood up again. A pleasant sort of tension seemed to fill the Hall now. Harry felt a slight thrill of excitement, wondering what was coming. Several seats from them, Fred and George were leaning forwards, staring at Dumbledore with great concentration. It was common knowledge to the Gryffindors that Fred and George were trying to find a way around the age restriction.

'The moment has come,' said Dumbledore, smiling around at the sea of upturned faces. 'The Triwizard Tournament is about to start. I would like to say a few words of explanation before we bring in the casket – '

'The WHAT?' said Harry. Ron shrugged and Colin chuckled.

' –just to clarify the procedure which we will be following this year…' Dumbledore went on to introduce Mr. Crouch, Percy's boss, who Harry found looked off in Wizard's robes compared to the smart muggle suit from the World Cup. He introduced Bagman, and then went on to explain that there would be five judges, one representative from the Ministry, the Headmasters, and Bagman. He explained how to enter the tournament, a slip of parchment with your name and the name of your school. Everything seemed relatively straightforward until Mr. Bagman decided to speak up.

'Now, I'd like to explain the seriousness of such a Tournament,' he said. Harry noted with great amusement that both McGonagall and Snape were giving Bagman disbelieving looks, as though the thought of the ex-Beater discussing anything serious was an impossibility. Then, Bagman smiled to indicate that whatever he was about to talk about was in fact, not serious. 'You see, this Tournament has not been held in over a century!' he paused for dramatic effect. 'Back in the day, people from all around the world would come to watch the Tournament. Now, this will be no different. There will be crowds larger than the World Cup this past summer, another of my projects, I might add,' he grinned pompously and clapped his hands together. 'Now, to those who will enter their name I must say this, you must not only be ready to face unparalleled magical challenges, but also… fame, recognition, the press… Your name will be known for generations to come! And that is only if you participate… if you win this tournament, expect fan mail, expect job offers, expect love potions… everything! This is a celebrity status level event. You will see famous bands, Quidditch players,' at his he looked at Krum, 'authors, politicians… everyone you can think of, will be here. This is a chance to make a name for yourself. A chance to prove yourself. Make sure that when you drop your name into the Goblet of Fire, you understand the risk of all of this.' this speech was met with raucous applause. Harry felt it was little more than a performance, but none the less, he clapped alongside his classmates.

'I don't think people understand how much is sucks to be recognized everywhere.'

'Nor do I, I'm just glad no one's forced my son into an interview.'

Harry snorted, 'Yeah, thank Merlin for that.'

Dumbledore thanked Bagman and reiterated that what he had said was correct, and that this shouldn't be taken lightly, before ushering them all to bed.

The next day was full of nervous excitement. Fred and George's failed entering of the tournament was absolutely hilarious. All day, Harry, Ginny, Colin, Hermione, Ron, and unbeknownst to them, Lily, discussed the tournament and who they'd want to enter.

'After Bagman's speech, would you still enter, Harry?' Hermione asked.

'Yeah. At least I'd be famous for something I accomplished on my own merits,' he replied easily. 'Also, I could learn loads of new magic from the other champions. They're from different countries, so their magic is a bit different.'

Hermione nodded. 'I suppose the international aspect would be exciting. But I wouldn't want the fame.' Ron found this absolutely ridiculous.

'What about you, Ginny? Still firmly against it?' said Colin, he had already expressed his desire to enter if he had had more magical experience.

Ginny thought long and hard. It was something Bagman had said the night before. 'A chance to prove yourself.' Ever since the Chamber, despite what everyone close to her had told her, she had that thirst. The need to prove that she didn't need to rely on anyone, that she could handle herself. In many ways it irritated her that she felt this way. It was such a childish way of thinking. But it was the spark that lit the fire of determination behind her words as she said, 'If I could have found a way around that age line, I would have entered my name.'

She would come to understand what a mistake it was to say such a thing before Ron and Hermione.

The Halloween feast was the most extravagant Harry had ever seen it. The Hall was beautiful, the pumpkins floating above their heads were carved with magically moving designs of hard-fought battles and noble knights. Harry laughed as one carving from a pumpkin leapt to another pumpkin and began dueling a carved dragon.

The house elves, if Hermione was right about their involvement, had outdone themselves. Harry had never had a roast this delicious. The veela girl strongly disagreed with all of Harry's thoughts and made her opinions known amongst the Hall. Both Harry and Ginny had decided on firmly disliking this girl. Though Ron and Colin both heartily disagreed.

Dumbledore finally got to his feet. Karkaroff and Madame Maxime both seemed tense, and a general aura of excitement filled the Hall. The one-man Harry would have assumed to be less than interested, Mr. Crouch, seemed to be overly excited. In fact, he seemed far more interested than any of the other staff.

'Well, the Goblet is almost ready to make its decisions,' said Dumbledore. 'I estimate that it requires one more minute. Now, when the champions' names are called, I would ask them please to come up to the top of the Hall, walk along the staff table, and go through into the next chamber where they will be receiving their first instructions.' he smiled at the sea of upturned faces, the twinkle in his eyes was in full swing.

He took out his wand and gave a great sweeping wave with it; at once, all the candles except those inside the carved pumpkins were extinguished, leaving the Hall in a semi darkness. The blue flames of The Goblet of Fire being the only direct light source of the room.

The flames in the Goblet suddenly turned a deep red. Sparks began to fly and Harry could hear the silence in the air. He heard crumbs drop from the mouth of Ron across from him, who had yet to use a napkin. His wolfish sense of smell could pick up on the sulfuric scent emanating from the Goblet. Then, a piece of parchment shot out with a trail of fire and fluttered down into Dumbledore's hand. 'The Champion for Durmstrang will be Viktor Krum!'

'No surprises there!' yelled Ron, as a storm of applause and cheering swept the Hall. Harry watched as the unbelievably awkward Viktor Krum made his way from the Slytherin table and up to the side chamber. Karkaroff seemed to have wet himself with excitement over Krum's selection.

The clapping and chattering died down. Now everyone's attention was again focused on the Goblet. It once again turned red, sprouting out another piece of parchment. Dumbledore caught it easily and read aloud, 'The Champion for Beauxbatons is Fleur Delacour!'

'Oh, look Ron, Colin, it's the love of your life!' cried Ginny in mock astonishment. Harry began to laugh but stopped abruptly as Fleur seemed to activate her veela charm like some kind of weapon as she walked across the top of the Hall as if it were a stage. Harry cringed and shook his head repeatedly while quite literally every boy's eyes widened and followed her progress. Only Snape, Dumbledore, and Flitwick seemed to be able to ignore her. Filch was making quite the fool of himself.

Now the hall was completely silent. This was the Hogwarts Champion. Harry could see Angelina crossing her fingers, her eyes tightly shut as she muttered a pleading mantra that she'd be selected. Harry smiled at her. The flames shone red, but something was different. It was as though the fire was trying to keep the parchment in. Then, with a resounding BOOM the tiny piece of parchment came out of the Goblet of Fire. Dumbledore, as well as Bagman, Remus, and Snape, seemed quite concerned at the sound, but Dumbledore caught the piece of parchment none the less. Everyone watched as his brows furrowed and he nearly dropped the parchment. He looked up and scanned the Hall, his eyes landing on Harry.

When people describe a sinking feeling, it's nothing like this. In fact, this was far worse. Harry felt as though he was drowning in uncertainty.

'Oh, no, no, no, no, no,' Lily repeated over and over. 'Not Harry, please not Harry.'

'Harry Potter.' Dumbledore said, eyes boring into Harry's. He didn't seem to get what he wanted because he frowned. Every face was now staring at Harry. 'Mr. Potter please go to the chamber at the front of the Hall.'

'What!?' Harry cried in surprise. 'I'm not seventeen! I didn't enter!' he didn't care that everyone was watching him, though he did feel the slight tingle of embarrassment as heat flushed his face.

'Be that as it may, your name was selected, it cannot be undone,' said Bagman, who was grinning at the opportunity of this strange mystery. Then, quite suddenly, the flames turned red again.

'No. Not her too.'

'What? Mum what are you talking about?'

'Ginny! What if it's Ginny! She's only thirteen!'

Harry gulped and turned to face Ginny who sat next to him. Ron was glaring daggers at Harry, as were many people around the Hall. Hermione was pointedly ignoring him.

Another piece of parchment came out of the Goblet with a resounding bang. Dumbledore caught it warily with his other hand, seeing as his right was occupied with the piece with Harry's name on it. His eyes widened and he said to the Hall at large.

'Ginny Weasley.'

Ginny groaned and slammed her head against the table. Hard. Harry would have laughed as she picked herself up and rubbed her forehead. 'I'm afraid I will need both of you to meet us in the chamber.'

Harry reluctantly rose to his feet, holding his hand out to Ginny who took it but let go immediately afterwards. They gave each other a knowing look. This was Voldemort. There was no doubt about it.

They walked in between the rows of tables and walked past Snape, who was glaring at Harry and Ginny. McGonagall seemed far more sympathetic, even going as far as opening the door for the pair.

They walked down into the chamber, Fleur Delacour and Krum were both standing next to a roaring fire. They looked up at Harry and Ginny and frowned.

'Where eez de 'Ogwarts Champion?'

'They're us,' said Ginny flatly. Fleur rolled her eyes and gave them an incredulous look.

'Do you honestly expect me to believe dat? I am French, not fool.'

Harry nodded dumbly and looked her in the eyes, it hurt like hell. Well, it was more uncomfortable than anything but to Harry it was to the point of pain. 'I really hate veelas' he thought. 'No, Fleur, we were both selected. We don't know how.'

Fleur made to reply but at that moment, all the judges, Professors Lupin, Snape, and McGonagall came bustling in. 'Harry, Ginny, did either of you put your name in the Goblet of Fire?' Remus asked calmly.

Both Harry and Ginny shook their heads. 'No, Remus. We didn't.' they said in unison.

'They are lying!' cried Madame Maxime. 'You, Dumbledore, have set this up.'

Karkaroff nodded. 'After all of our careful planning, you still go against the rules. You betrayed our respect. Trying to win with two champions-'

'Shut the fuck up Karkaroff,' Remus snapped. As far as he was aware, both of these children were his honorary niece and nephew. Harry had become a sort of son to him, no matter how badly he had failed him. Everyone seemed taken aback at Remus's outburst. 'You can say fuck all about betraying respect.'

'Remus,' Dumbledore said warningly. Remus raised his hands in surrender before standing aside.

'Karkaroff, if I wanted to win, and use two champions, I would not have selected two students who have yet to learn a simple stunning spell.' Dumbledore explained, calmly. Remus snorted and McGonagall finally got through her shock and spoke.

'Well, they won't compete. We'll get the Goblet to reselect the Champions.'

'I'm afraid, Minerva, that won't be possible,' said Mr. Crouch. 'The Tournament has already begun. Nothing can cancel it; all the tasks must be performed by both Miss Weasley and Mr. Potter.'

'That is ridiculous!' said McGonagall. Madame Maxime was nodding in agreement; she had been placated by Dumbledore's reasoning and explanation.

'I'm afraid he is correct, Minerva,' said Snape. Coming out of the shadows. 'However, Potter, Weasley, did either of you ask a student who was older than you to enter your names?'

Both Harry and Ginny shook their heads. 'It couldn't have worked like that Severus; we both know that. The Goblet of Fire is an ancient magical object, it would take highly powerful dark magic to fool such a device. Four champions…and ignoring the age limit… I don't know how anyone could expect any student in this school to have been able to perform such an act.' Remus turned to Crouch. 'It must have been someone in your department.'

Mr. Crouch seemed appropriately concerned and nodded to Remus before leaving the chamber. 'You seem to know a lot about dark magics, Lupin. It is almost as though you are hiding a dark secret…' said Karkaroff menacingly.

'Every adult here is well aware of my 'Dark Secret' Karkaroff. Is everyone here aware of yours, I wonder?' Remus spat back. Karkaroff glared at Remus before stepping down. 'Would you have wanted to participate, had you been of age?' said Remus, indicating Harry and Ginny. They both seemed to be taken by surprise at the question, both blushing slightly.

'Well… Yeah,' said Harry. Snape scowled but remained silent. Remus frowned slightly but nodded to Harry.

'I'll let Sirius know.' Remus said quietly.

Bagman clapped his hands together. 'Well! This is truly exciting! The Boy-Who-Lived and the girl who fought Lucius Malfoy! This is going to be huge!' he seemed cheerful enough. Harry glared at Bagman who, it seemed, could not be taken out of his glee. 'Now, the first task will take place on the twenty-fourth of November. It is designed to test your daring, courage, and quick thinking. I'm sure our two Gryffindors will perform admirably in this area!' Harry completely disagreed. They were fourth and third years respectively. 'Now, the task will be performed in front of the judges, the students, and an international audience. It will be magically broadcast worldwide as well. There will be a press ceremony following the task. Alright! Off to bed! You've got a busy three weeks ahead of you!' and with that, Bagman left through the way he came.

Harry and Ginny walked a great distance behind the rest of the staff and the other two champions back through the now deserted Hall. Remus was a little behind them, deep in thought.

'Well,' said Ginny, breaking the long silence as they climbed to the Fat Lady. 'If this is Tom's plan to kill us, we better win.'

Harry looked up from his meticulous inspection of his shoes. 'Yeah, we'll just have to survive.'

Ginny stopped, staring right over Harry's shoulder for a moment. 'Or… and hear me out… we could actually try and win.'

Harry smiled slightly, 'That'll piss Voldemort off. I'm in.'

For the first time since their names came out of the Goblet, Ginny grinned. 'You're on, Potter.'

Their slight upturn in mood was short lived, however, because the second the Portrait opened, Harry and Ginny were pulled into overwhelming applause and congratulations. Fred and George were, if Harry was not mistaken, crying tears of joy that their little sister was living up to their legacy. Harry was getting constant slaps on the back. He was frowning through the whole thing, as was Ginny. Eventually, after long last, things calmed down. People began to head to bed, and Harry and Ginny finally got a chance to see Ron and Hermione

Harry was about to sit down and complain when Ron opened his mouth. 'So, I guess that little statement you made earlier was just some heavy foreshadowing, was it?' said Ron, screaming at his sister. 'You said it yourself! 'If I could have found a way around the age line, I would have entered'' he repeated in a mocking tone. 'You just had to enter, lie about it to all of us, so you could be as famous as your precious boyfriend The Boy Who Lived!' Ron was livid, but Harry could sense an underlying tone of jealousy and sadness. As though he, for one, wanted to be in the Tournament but also just wished to have been included.

'And you!' he said, rounding on Harry. 'You lied again! You kept things from both me and Hermione to what? What was it for Harry? You go on and on about how uncomfortable the fame makes you but then go on and on about how if you were seventeen, you'd enter. Well, you did. What was it for?' Ron seemed genuinely upset now, less anger and more sorrow. 'What the fuck has happened to you? Ever since you left for the summer you've been… different,' and with that, Ron left and walked up the stairs.

Ginny turned to Hermione. 'Surely you believe us, we didn't enter. How could we fool an artifact like the Goblet of Fire?'

Hermione bit her lip and turned to Harry. 'It wouldn't be the first time Harry's kept things from us. Ron's right. I know why you've changed, Harry, but you've also become a lot more powerful, and well… I can see why you'd do this.'

Harry and Ginny stared in shock as Hermione walked towards the staircase. 'Seriously, Hermione? You, who knows more about the workings of magic than anyone I know, thinks we could fool the Goblet of Fire?'

Hermione turned, her eyes brimming with tears. 'Yes, Harry, I do.'

Harry turned to Ginny, who was red in the face and furious. 'That-Git-doesn't-understand!' she said through clenched teeth.

'I'm assuming you said you'd enter because you wanted to prove yourself?' said Harry quietly, sinking into the overstuffed armchair near the fire, Ginny sitting on the left arm. She nodded, her face growing somber instead of angry.

'They'll come around, I'm sure of it,' said Harry. Though he himself didn't sound too convinced, and Ginny couldn't help but agree with his doubts.

Harry and Ginny, both underaged, were now the Hogwarts Champions of the world-famous Triwizard Tournament.

And they had no one on their side.

Well, Maybe Colin will be with them in the morning.