The first rays of sun were beginning to show at dawn. Almost everyone was in their beds, all except one boy who had gone to the forbidden forest for a walk. The fresh air of the forest was good for the burn on his arm, but luckily he would be almost as good as new. He liked to sneak through the passages to the forest and enjoy the fresh air, perhaps because most of his childhood was spent in a small cupboard and he only came out to do chores. The boy was levitating large rocks to make a kind of makeshift cave. Behind him was a huge snake.

-It was not necessary-

-I know, but I wanted to do it anyway- he replied in Parseltongue.

-So you fought a dragon. Very impressive-

-I was only able to match him for a few seconds, most of the time I avoided him using my broom-

-Most would have froze or done something incredibly brave and stupid. In general, wizards always depend on his wand. You used all your talents, which are varied if I may add, which is the broom and your skill with potions to put him to sleep, very clever. A great feat and even more so being just a child - and as he said that adjective Harry made a sound with his nose. The reptile made a hiss that could be interpreted as a grimace -I could hear your snort, I apologize if I offended you. Sometimes I forget that you are not the same person I met two years ago. You have made so much progress, few adults could do the things you have achieved. I hope to see you develop your full potential one day-

Harry smiled -Excuse me, I shouldn't have been offended, I've already been told that sometimes I have impulsive behavior like a Gryffindor. And thank you for your praise, of course I still have a lot to learn, I think that's what I like the most, expanding my knowledge with new things and pushing my limits.-

-Well said, remember that talent is not everything, hard work and sacrifice are the key to greatness, keep it up. Your mind and your magic are like a muscle, the more you use and practice them...-

-The stronger they will become, I understand- he replied and then observed his work -¿What do you think? ¿Is it enough or do you need more space?

-It's perfect, I would only use it during the day, I don't like the sun very much. I'm just asking if you can do a perpetual cooldown spell in there-

-¿How is that?- he asked curiously.

-I have seen magicians enchant magical objects so that they are covered by eternal flames without the object being consumed and reduced to ashes. You have already manipulated other elements before, you just have to focus on which one you want to invoke-

-That makes sense- Harry thought -Well, I'll try-

-Start with something small, look at that small branch, try to make it burn for an unlimited time. The name of the spell is "Gubrait-

-¡Gubrait!- he said, pointing his wand. The piece of wood began to burn, and ended up burning completely.

-Don't think about the basic fire spell. This is a different, older magic.

-And more difficult- he answered, and went in search of another piece of wood. This time he tried to do what the snake told him -¡Gubrait! - And just like the previous time the object began to burn, until there was nothing left. It was on the fourth attempt that he succeeded, the branch was surrounded by fire, but without changing size, the flames remained constant. Harry was elated, whenever he managed to perform a new spell well, and a difficult one at that, he experienced a sensation that he couldn't describe in words, almost like flying on a broomstick. After canceling the fire he entered the place that he built for his friend and pointed at some rocks but that time he tried to think about ice, not the Glacius spell, but the element itself. When he opened his eyes he could see that the rocks had almost crystallized and acquired a lighter color, steam was beginning to come out of his mouth. He had managed to freeze part of the rocks to maintain a cold, wet environment for the basilisk.

-Not bad, I bet you always excel in your classes and have the teachers' attention-

-Sometimes, but I'm not interested in fame and being the center of attention. I like to learn new spells and skills but I don't show it off and I don't enjoy making others feel less.

-You've understood. There is no nobility in being better than others, but in being better than one was before. It's something that humans have a hard time understanding, especially gifted ones like you. The enthusiasm for knowledge sometimes transforms into an insatiable hunger for power. It took Merlin longer to realize-

-¿Did you meet Merlin? -He asked surprised.

-Not personally, but he was one of the first students at Hogwarts and was also in Slytherin house. As a young man he felt very attracted to dark forces and also wanted to use them against the Muggles.-Harry was stupefied by this fact -They omitted that part of the story¿ Right? Ahh human arrogance... it's hard for them to admit their flaws. Boy, great wizards and sorceresses in history have made their mistakes and even the best of them is far from be perfect. Yes, Merlin committed questionable acts, like many, during his youth but he spent his entire adult life trying to make amends. In fact he founded the laws that prohibit magicians from using their magic against non-magicians-

Harry was very surprised, it was the first time that the history of Magic was interesting. Also because perhaps the Basilisk was more entertaining than Mr. Binns. Just at that moment he felt a sting in his scar, it was only a few seconds but enough to hurt and surprise him.

-¿Are you okay?-

-Yes, maybe I'm a little tired and hungry. I'll go eat something before starting classes-

-When you need my advice or help, do not hesitate to ask for it-

-Thank you, same thing- he replied as he patted her cold skin in farewell. He was on her way to school and saw Krum running around the lake. When he saw him he waved at him from afar as he continued with his exercises, Harry was wondering if he shouldn't start doing the same, after all, any physical or mental exercise is good for the body. Since it was still early and most of his classmates were probably just waking up or sleeping for a while, he went straight to the kitchens like last time. As soon as the elves saw it, there were a couple who almost dropped their trays when they saw it.

-Good morning, I'm sorry to bother...-

-¡Please! The great Harry Potter is always well received among us- said an elf, bowing deeply -Tell us how we can serve you-

-I was just looking for a quick breakfast, thank you- and then he saw an elf who stood out among the majority. They all wore old or worn robes, typical of most of his race, since if a wizard gives his elf clothes he will free him. However, he wore colorful clothes of different colors, when he saw him up close a light went on in his head -Dobby?

The elf turned and opened his eyes in surprise -Harry Potter!"It's an honor that I still remember Dobby's name- he said like a child who had received a gift.

-¿You work here? I thought you were with the Malfoy family-

-Not anymore sir. Thanks to young Master Malfoy- he said happily.

-I don't understand, they kicked you out, and you're happy?-

-Dobby liked to serve young Malfoy and of course his friend the great Harry Potter. But Mr. Malfoy did not treat Dobby well, when he was angry or had a bad day at work he would hit Dobby, Dobby received a lot of spankings and once he forced little boy Malfoy to look and then do the same to me, but when he started crying, his mother took him out of there and made her husband promise not to try to do that again. That made Dobby doubly punished, but he was relieved, because it would have hurt me more if Master Malfoy had done it. He is not like his father, not when he is with the great Harry Potter and his friends, he counts the days until he goes back to school with you- he said tremblingly. Harry hated Lucius Malfoy more and more and was also relieved that his friend did not want to follow in his father's footsteps, he prayed that he would never be forced to choose between his friends or his family and the place of his life. him in her. At that moment they brought him a tray with a cup of milk with cut fruits, squeezed orange juice and small cereal sandwiches.

-Healthy breakfast, ideal for a growing youngster. The same one that Director Karkaroff asked the elves to do. We suggest you follow his example, Mr. Potter.

-Thank you very much- he said smiling, the Elf opened his eyes in surprise and left nervously. Harry remembered what his friend had told him, for an elf the maximum reward is usually a "Well done" or some verbal thanks.

Dobby continued speaking -YoungMalfoy planned it together with his friend Miss Granger, they set up a ruse so that Dobby would receive a piece of clothing so she would be free of it. The young man told him that his father must be happy since they could buy a new and better house elf, his father seemed to like the idea. Although I feel sorry for the comrade who replaced me - and at that moment he seemed to shudder and began to hit his head - ¡Bad Dobby! ¡Very bad Dobby!

-Stop it, Dobby!- Harry said, separating him from the wall.

-Thank you Harry Potter, thank you so much!- He said rubbing his head.

-"Merlin! Hermione was right, they deserve something better"- Harry thought.

-¿How can you talk like that about your masters, Dobby? - said another elf with a shrill voice.

-They are no longer my masters Winky, I don't care-

-You are a bad elf, I could never talk like that about Mr. Crouch, it doesn't matter that he fired her ¿How I could be? My grandmother and my mother served him and his family, and Winky too until... what... - and she covered her face with her skirt and started crying.

-¿Did Mr. Crouch throw her out? ¿What did she do?- He asked in a low voice. He knew that the man was very strict with the rules but fair, so he must have done something very serious for him to fire her.

-Dobby tried to ask her, but she doesn't say it. She is very ashamed and sad, she really appreciated her master and her family-

-¿And how did you end up here?- And Dobby told him how he was looking for a job without success, until he remembered that there are many elves in Hogwarts and that even Dumbledore offered him money and weekends off.

-It's a good start- and at that moment the elf was babbling again through tears.

-I was the third generation of elves to serve the great Crouch family, if my family were here I would be ashamed...What will Mr Crouch do without me? He needs me-

-Look, your name is Winky ¿Right? I'm sure he'll be fine, I've seen it and she seems to be coping well- he said, trying to comfort her.

-¿Has Mr. Harry Potter seen my master?-

-Yes, he is here for the Triwizard Tournament along with Ludo Bagman- and at that moment the elf's expression of sadness turned to displeasure.

-¡Mr Bagman is a bad, very bad magician!-

-¿Bagman is bad?

-¡Oh yes! Mr Crouch never liked Mr Bagman, Mr Crouch has told Winky things about him... but Winky doesn't say anything, she is a good elf and she keeps his secrets As she should be-

After finishing his meal he was on his way to meet his friends who had probably already gotten up - "So Mr. Bagman has dirty secrets. Although knowing Crouch he probably doesn't like him because he doesn't take the rules seriously, or maybe he already knows that he tried to help me with the first trial- Harry thought.

-I thought you would be in the library trying to solve the riddle of the Harry egg!- Hermione told him after telling them about her morning.

-Calm down Hermione, the second test is a long time away- Ron commented.

-But it could take him weeks to figure it out ¿What if he then has to perform some magic he's not prepared for? You have to focus Harry-

-Yes,"mom"- he replied sarcastically and both Ron and Draco laughed. After Transfiguration they continued with Snape, who although most of the students performed well the antidotes that he had ordered them to prepare, did not seem pleased.

-Potter, stay a second- the greasy-haired man told him. When they were alone he spoke -I would like to remind you that the champions and their couples...-

-¿Couples?-

-I mean their dance partners-

-I don't dance- he said with some embarrassment.

-Yes, you will. It's tradition, you will choose a partner worthy of a champion, don't even think about embarrassing your house during the Christmas ball or you will be punished- he replied in an icy tone. Harry wanted to protest but he knew it would be of no use. He started to think about who he could invite, then he thought about the Ravenclaw girl Chang, but when he got up the courage to invite her, unfortunately she had already found a partner and with none other than Cedric Diggory. Every day the chances of finding someone became slimmer.

-Hey Hermione, you're a girl- Ron told her.

-Don't tell me Ronald-

-Well, I thought you could come with one of us, and Harry could maybe go with Ginny-

-For your information we already have a couple-

-¿Really?- He asked surprised, which made the girl angry.

-Just because it took you so long to realize that I'm a girl doesn't mean that others don't- and she left there taking big steps.

-¿Do you think it's true?-

-I don't think she lied- and Ginny and Daphne just appeared.

-¿Hey, is it true that you already have a partner?- Ron asked his sister.

-Yes and you better hurry or you'll have to go alone-

-¿Who is it? Don't tell me he's one of your house-

-Even if it were, that's none of your business. Not everyone is like the idiots obsessed with "pureblood" and hating muggles. But it seems like you could get along with them, since you think they're all the same without really knowing them ¿Wasn't that the same thing you did with Draco when you first saw him? You judged him without really knowing what he was like. I love you Ron, but sometimes you can be a prejudiced idiot.

-He's right, I'm from Slytherin. Do you think that one day I'll join Voldemort?- And everyone shuddered when they heard his name except Hermione.

-Okay, okay, sorry. I was a fool ¿Okay? - Ron said embarrassed.

-¿And you Daphne? Do you already have someone to go with? - Harry asked and the girl blushed.

-Well, a boy from my house invited me, but the truth is that she wasn't very interested-

-You could go with Harry and if you can introduce me to one of your classmates that would be great- Ron told her.

-It's not a bad idea. I mean, if it's okay with Daphne, do you want to be my partner? - Harry asked and she nodded somewhat blushing.

-I have a friend for Ronald, her name is Luna Lovegood, she is a little strange but pretty and I think she knows how to dance-

-¿"Lunatic Lovegood?" Ron asked.

-Don't tell him like that, it's rude-

-¿Why did she call her that?-

-Because she is very strange, she talks about strange things that do not exist and she is somewhat lonely-

-¿And? She's a good person and frankly I'm thinking that she's too good for you and that you should go alone- his sister said.

-No no. Tell me where she is now so I can invite her before someone else does- and he left, accompanying Ginny.

-It's a lost cause, isn't it?- Daphne said to Harry.

-Yes, but he is a good friend and she knows how to play wizard chess very well-

Harry was getting ready for the dance, he was a little nervous. He had put on his formal suit, his shoes and finally a French perfume that Draco's mother had given him for his last birthday -Anyone who sees you would say that you look like a gentleman- Draco told him -Except maybe for that hair - and Harry looked at his messy hair.

-There is nothing I can do-

-Come, I have something that will help you- and he placed a gel on top to accommodate it a little.

-I see why it takes you so long in the bathrooms-

-My hair is easy to style, yours...well that's it. It's the best I could under the circumstances- he joked.

-You still haven't told me who you're going with-

-¿And ruin the surprise?- When they left their common room, they met Ron who was waiting for them outside his house, while he exchanged cold glances with the other Slytherins who obviously didn't want him near the dungeons. They went into the hallway and the three of them were stunned, Hermione, Ginny, Daphne and the girl who he assumed was Luna Lovegood were there. They were all wearing gala dresses, they were wearing makeup and it was evident that they had also done something to their hair -We thought they had gotten cold feet- said Ron's sister.

-It's not something a gentleman would do- Draco said, approaching -Green really is your color-he told Ginny.

-Wait ¿HE is your partner?-

-¿Any problem with that Ronald? ¿Should I send a letter to mom? - Ginny asked, raising her eyes and looking at him with sparks in her eyes.

-I...- and then she remembered the talk they had had before and just nodded -No, it's no problem just...don't do anything embarrassing-

-¿Like your way of dancing?- Malfoy said and laughed along with Ginny.

-Hello, you must be Ron, I'm Luna, your sister spoke well of you. Don't worry, I don't know how to dance either - the girl with blonde hair and a lost look told him.

-I'm glad I'm not the only one, it's a pleasure. Hello Daphne- and she gave him a look -You... you look very pretty today... not that you aren't... you always look good...- Ron said blushing and the girl turned red too. Harry gave Ron a push making him stand next to her partner so he wouldn't ignore her and he took her arm in his.

-Wow, I didn't think you could accommodate that hair of yours-

-Draco helped, although it is a losing battle ¿Hey, what about your partner Hermione? -

-Sorry "Herr-mione" director Kargkaroff kept me busy more than I thought. You look very beautiful-he said with that accent. Harry, Ron and Draco were stunned. Of all the possible options Viktor Krum was the last person that came to mind.

-Hello Viktor, no problem-

Everyone greeted him as cordially as possible, especially Harry, the respect he owed to his rival. Draco kept up appearances like any upper-class boy, but Ron was still stunned that he could barely say anything. He was convinced that he would make a scene.

-They were really surprised by their friend's partner- said Daphne.

-I think I'm starting to understand why he gave her an autograph-Harry responded.

-Wake up Harry, it's obvious that he's up to something. Maybe he's trying to get to you. Yes its that's what it must be- Ron said angrily.

-¿Should I remind you that as soon as you saw him arrive at school your eyes shone, you even said that you would even offer him your bed, like a fanatic in love? - Harry said and Ron blushed -Let's go to the dance and have fun, if Krum or Karkaroff try something suspicious I will know how to handle it, but I doubt they will do it with Dumbledore and Professor Moody around ¿Isn't he a great Auror? I bet the director brought him in to be in charge of security without raising suspicions with our guests and teaching class was the perfect excuse. Until then, Krum is my rival and Professor Snape has already insisted that I make good relations with the guests- Harry said, shrugging his shoulders, accepting the situation -¿Let's go, Daphne?- He said to the girl.

The champions and their partners had a table near their directors. Fleur Delacour talked about trivial things and Roger Davies nodded at everything she said since he seemed to be fascinated by her appearance. Hermione tried to teach Krum words in her language. Cedric and Cho looked at each other smiling. Harry was surprised. It bothered him a little but he decided it was better to ignore that feeling.

-I hope you know how to dance better than Ginny's brother-

-Draco has taught me a little- he replied, smiling. Then the other students joined in, after some songs and laughter the musicians took a short break and played slower songs to relax the atmosphere, some sat down, others continued dancing and others went together for a walk through the hallways. and gardens. Many girls went to the bathrooms to check their makeup and hairstyles, the boys went to get some air outside.

-¿How about your partners?- Harry asked.

-Ginny introduced me to a real crazy woman. But it's not that bad-

-Consider yourself lucky that you found a partner -

-And you're lucky that I let you come with my sister-

-Pff, like if I needed it ¿Do you want me to owl your mother and tell her how you embarrassed her?-

-Now, now lovebirds. Let's better have something to drink before the girls come back and... - just at that moment he thought he saw Snape and Principal Karkaroff arguing. He motioned to his friends to lower their voices and sneak closer to hear better.

-You can't deny it Severus, it's become more frequent in recent months and I'm worried, I can't help it-

-Run away if you want Igor, I will excuse you. But I'm staying here - and when he saw them nearby he asked them what they were doing there and they responded that they were just walking. As they returned they found Hagrid talking to Madame Maxime, they could hear him confessing his joy at finding another half-giant, Harry saw a small beetle moving along the wall at high speed. The huge woman did not take her word well and told her that she only had big bones and she left there offended. Ron and Draco were shocked at this news, as Harry had grown up with Muggles he didn't know about the world of magic.

-Well, all of us who know Hagrid know that he is harmless. But in general the giants like violence and blood, most were extinct by the magicians and were banished, it is said that in the mountains or large forests. No wonder he likes dragons, hippogriffs or dangerous creatures so much.

-At least he has the courage to admit it, it is obvious that Madame Maxime is ashamed of that side of her. I don't know who they're fooling with that "big skeleton" thing. When they met up with their partners again, they danced, or at least tried, for a while longer, before the group finished and the students were sent to their rooms. Before leaving, Cedric approached him and thanked him for the dragons' clue and that he wanted to return the favor, so he suggest him take a bath with the egg and recommended the prefects' showers, giving him directions on how to get there along with the password. to enter and wished him good luck before leaving. Harry didn't know if he was serious or if it was a joke, he would have preferred more direct help and less riddles - Tomorrow I'll talk to Hermione, she's good at this riddles -

Hermione was as surprised as they were by Hagrid and, unfortunately, she was also confused by Cedric's advice. "Well, I imagine there must be a good reason, do what he says and then tell us."

After a week of rest, classes resumed normally. They were going to Magical Creatures class, there was not much enthusiasm until a new teacher arrived, and instead of showing them some dangerous or strange creature, she showed them a beautiful unicorn and let the girls approach it since the animal preferred female company. . Everyone was delighted with the change that had occurred. Harry didn't want to admit it but the class was good and he couldn't force the others to turn them against the substitute.

-¿What do you think happened to Hagrid?-

-I know- Draco said, showing them an edition of "The Daily Prophet" -Flint and others were in a good mood and I was curious- and he showed them a report written by Rita Skeeter, about Hagrid, his expulsion from school, the incident of the Hippogriff, and the worst: his semi-giant lineage. Every word Harry read made him hate that tabloid reporter more and more.

Harry went with Ron and Hermione to see him at his cabin after Divination, but despite the knocking on the door he did not want to answer them. His absence was present all week, not even at the teachers' table. Many Slytherins scoffed at this, and although it was hard to admit, many others were happy with her understudy, who showed them cute or harmless creatures that had interesting qualities.

They went to the Three Broomsticks hoping to see him there shopping but unfortunately he wasn't there either, they ran into Draco and he told them that he didn't see Hagrid there either. The place was full of people. Hogwarts students and guests who were out for a walk. He asked Mrs. Rosmerta for four butterbeers and when he was about to pay the lady rejected him -This round is on the house, "champion,"- she told him with a wink. Harry blushed, but since he didn't want to take advantage he placed several coins in the tip jar when she didn't see him.

-Look, it's Ludo Bagman ¿That man never work? - Ron said, pointing with his chin to a corner where the man was sitting with some goblins, who were looking at him with unfriendly faces. The man seemed nervous and when he saw him he jumped out of his seat and went towards him.

-¡Wait a moment, give me a moment! -He said to the goblins in a nervous tone -¡Harry! Boy ¿How are you? - and he took him to a separate corner to congratulate him and once again offer him some help in the tournament. He asked him how he was doing with the riddle of the egg but Harry again refused his help. He will go as far as he goes without shortcuts or traps. That's what they expected from a Slytherin and he wasn't going to give them that satisfaction. Bagman told him that Barty Crouch had been absent a lot lately and that he was being replaced by Ron's brother Percy, who until recently was his assistant, and that they were also busy looking for Bertha Jorkins, who works in the Magical Games and Sports department, who had been there for some time. missing

-¿And why did they only start looking for her now?-

-Look, I don't want to speak ill of her but she was always somewhat absent-minded and forgetful, on more than one occasion she got lost in the Ministry on the way to her office, perhaps she accidentally cast the Confundus curse on herself, but hey, we will do our best to find her-

When they separated, his friends asked him what he wanted, Harry gave them a brief summary and they just ran into Rita Skeeter. She tried to get Harry to give her an interview to talk about Hagrid and get her opinion.

-You are a horrible woman ¿How could you write that about Hagrid? You don´t mind dirtying anyone in order to sell a story ¿Who's next? ¿Barty Crouch? ¿Ludo Bagman?-

-Better sit down, brat, and don't speak without knowing. I know things about Bagman that would surprise you and leave your hair standing on end... and apparently it wouldn't hurt- she told him coldly, looking at his hair. After there she went with Hermione and Ron to see Hagrid, when they arrived they saw Professor Dumbledore who seemed to be waiting for them.

-I think we all came with the same idea of making our beloved ranger and Care of Magical Creatures teacher see reason- he said smiling and they all went into the cabin to have a great talk with their friend and tell him that they didn't care. what was and that for them remained the same.

-Monday I hope to see you at the teachers' table and teaching classes, Hagrid. I won't take no for an answer - and he walked out of there. After a while his friend's face began to look happier -I hope you win Harry and show them what you're worth. Your parents would be so proud-

-¿Even if Im from Slytherin and not a Griffindor like them?-

-That's silly. Dumbledore told me that he knows that you gave Cedric clues about the dragon and that you refused Bagman's help. That is something that a worthy of the son of James and Lily, brave and honest people. Never be ashamed of who you are, I did and I regret it. I hope you are doing well with the egg riddle-

-Cedric told him to take a bath, but it didn't work-

-Ahh I see ¿And what kind of bathroom? ¿With hot or cold water, shower or bath?

-No, I...- and at that moment a spark lit in his head. He had been showering and soaking the egg but had never gotten into the bathtub with it. If they had to face fire with the dragon, perhaps the next test has to do with water and the clue would be within the fact that the egg squeaked every time he opened it. He said goodbye to his friends and quickly left saying that he was on a lead about the egg and had to check it out.

-¡Good luck Harry!- the man shouted from the window and Harry smiled. The day had begun to improve.

Harry had entered the prefects' bathroom with the password that Cedric had given him and after the water was at the right point he began to get in with the egg in his hand, he took a breath and submerged with it, at first nothing happened, So he decided to open it, hoping that the squeak wouldn't be heard as loud as the previous time. But instead a beautiful voice was heard with perfect clarity

"...Where our voices sound, come look for us, because on earth our songs cannot be heard

We have taken what you value most and you have an hour to find it..."

Harry listen the song several times until he understood, he should rescue someone close to him, he could fight almost any creature on land but underwater and without being able to breathe was a challenge. He had to find a way to be able to breathe underwater, at least enough until he achieved his goal. He decided to check the map in case there were any professors or prefects hanging around. He saw on the map Barty Crouch leaving Snape's office, which seemed strange to him that he was there at that time. He started hearing footsteps so he said the magic words and the map took on the appearance of old parchment as always. When he thought things couldn't get any worse he ran into Filch, Moody and Snape himself, he cursed himself for forgetting about his invisibility cloak. He didn't think he'd need her.

-Well well Potter ¿Why am I not surprised to see you out of bed at this hour? ¡Ten points less for Slytherin! -

-I was trying to solve the riddle of the egg, Professor-

-You can do it at normal times, like the rest of the champions, but of course the great Harry Potter doesn't care about the rules and regulations, just like your father- he said coldly. Harry had to stop himself from answering him, knowing that with Snape he couldn't win..

-Did you see anyone else hanging around the halls, Potter?-

-Don't bother Moody, even if he had seen someone, I doubt he would give him away. Students who break the rules cover each other's backs, don't they, Potter? - Apparently the professor was in a bad mood because someone had been checking his workplace and he should spend the night taking inventory to see if he something was missing.

The next day Harry told his friends everything that had happened, only Ron and Draco were interested in Crouch, while Hermione continued to insist on focusing on the next trial. He sent him an unknown owl so as not to raise suspicions or anything that could trace him, with a letter in which he explained everything related to Mr. Crouch's incursion into Snape's office and raised the idea that he might be absent since to the dance so they can sneak around and keep an eye on the champions and adults. While he was walking around the lake trying to think about how he could survive underwater for so long, at that moment he crossed paths with Neville Longbottom who was carrying buckets to collect some plants and take them to the greenhouse -I like herbology, maybe one day I can teach that, but I doubt it, I'm too clumsy-

-You should have more confidence, there's a reason the sorting hat sent you to the lions...and I must admit that it takes guts to break the rules and free a hippogriff that had been sentenced to death by the ministry. You risked being expelled- he said, smiling. The boy was surprised that Harry knew about it and even more so that he hadn't ratted him out. he said smiling, the boy was surprised that Harry knew and even more so that he hadn't ratted him out.

-Not all Slytherins are like Flint and the brainless Crabbe and Goyle, look at Ron's sister for example-

-Yes I know. I'll try not to be so prejudiced. Thank you for not telling anyone about Hagrid's hippogriff, I would have been in a lot of trouble and my grandmother would have died from disgust. I wish I could help you,- he told him while taking some samples from the shore of the lake.

-¿Do you know any spell that allows me to breathe underwater?-

-No, I'm sorry...but I know of a plant that can help you-

-You have my full attention- he said happily. A glimmer of hope began to surround Harry, maybe he could pass this test after all-

Neville had finished explaining everything he knew about gillweed, a very rare magical plant, the person who ate it could breathe underwater for a couple of hours, enough time to complete the challenge. The difficult part was getting it, his classmate had suggested that he could order it by mail but it would be expensive and take a long time, then there was the option of asking the Potions teacher or the Herbology teacher, Mrs. Sprout, but the teachers weren't supposed to be able to do it. help them and the idea of being indebted to Professor Snape certainly did not please him. At that moment he had a great but dangerous idea -¿Dobby?- after a small "crack" the elf had appeared in front of him.

-Mr. Harry Potter called Dobby and he came. It will be an honor to serve the great Harry Potter-

-Listen Dobby, I know this is difficult to understand but I must pass the second test of the Tournament and the only way is if I get some gillweed, which is in Professor Snape's office-

-¿Does Mr. Harry Potter want Dobby to steal from the professor?-

-It's not a theft, it's... a loan, I wish I could buy it or ask you for it but the rules prevent any adult from helping me. I'll tell him everything someday, I promise. You won't get in trouble with Professor Snape or the headmaster.

-Dobby understands, he knows that Harry Potter will do the right thing, as always. Dobby will be happy to help you- and he disappeared. After a few seconds that seemed endless, the elf reappeared with plants similar to river algae.

-Thank you very much Dobby ¿Is there anything he can do to thank you?-

-Well...if it's not too much trouble, Dobby would like a pair of clothes. It is not necessary that they be very good, just to not wear out so much the one that the great Professor Dumbledore gave to Dobby, he is a great man, he always treats Dobby well.

-I promise you a big box full of clothes for you- he said smiling and offered his hand in a gesture of good will. The elf looked at him surprised at this fact, partly due to the nature of his race and also the mistreatment he had suffered from his previous master.

-Dobby shouldn't, elves should not have contact with wizards- he said hesitantly.

-No one sees us, I won't say anything if you don't say anything- he said mischievously and the elf gave him a quick but strong handshake. Then he left there, while the elf muttered things to himself, partly between joy and the nervous tic that overtook him when he felt that he was not fulfilling his duty as an elf.

Harry was on his way to the second test. The entire crowd was dispersed in different stands placed around the lake near the school. Harry noticed how many applauded him very loudly when he arrived, even some of the Huflepuffs who were beginning to support him, especially when he greeted his rivals cordially. Everyone was excited for it to begin, Harry saw Ron in the audience but not Draco and Hermione and began to worry a little more about the test.

Harry noticed the Weasley twins setting off yellow and green fireworks, representing the colors of Diggory's house and his own, and he also saw Daphne and Ginny waving at him from afar, which made him blush a little. At that moment Ludo Bagman placed his wand on his throat and amplified his voice -Well, all the champions are ready for the second test, which will begin when the whistle blows. They have exactly one hour to recover what has been taken from them. So, when I count three: one... two... three! - And Harry had already swallowed the gillweed a second before Bagman gave the signal and jumped into the lake. In a few seconds his body changed, gills grew in his throat allowing him to breathe underwater and his hands and feet looked like those of an underwater creature, which allowed him to swim more easily "I am indebted to Dobby and Neville" Harry thought. After several minutes of diving deeper and deeper, he had to get rid of a couple of annoying Gryndlows and came across the ghost of Moaning Myrtle, but nothing that presented him with any difficulties. As he went deeper he saw a kind of hidden city, full of mermaids and mermen, many pointing at him and whispering.

-Not bad, you're the first. But you still have a long way to go- a merman told him before continuing on his way. When he entered further he noticed that in what seemed to be the center of a submerged plaza, there was a huge stone statue representing a mermaid but the most striking thing was that in its tail there were four ropes of tied seaweed and at the other end four people tied together. to her. They were Draco, Hermione, Cho Chang and a girl he didn't recognize.

-"I must release them as soon as possible, I don't know how much longer the gillyweed will last"- he thought. He tried to cut his friend's rope with his hands but it was very hard and he couldn't think of what spell he could say to lower the water. The mermaids and mermen laughed, which frustrated him more, but he had to focus on the challenge. At that moment he remembered when he burned reporter Skeeter's pen just by thinking about it, of course he did it accidentally, he was very angry at that moment, and now it was more desperation than anger. He closed his eyes trying to find a solution -Remember what Hestia teach you, wizards channel their magic through wands or magical objects but we are also capable of doing spells on our own- Of course he had never tried to do it before, it was very magic. advanced even for him. But he also remembered that last year he was able to cast the Patronus Charm something that not all adults can do and if he had already managed to do wandless magic before, maybe this time he could do it voluntarily. He concentrated as much as he could, he thought about the task, about his friends, a small spark began to emerge on the rope until it was cut. He was super elated, he had done it, now he just had to do it with the rest.

-Only yours. They already have their rescuers- the merman told him and pointed with his trident to Cedric and Krum who were on their way to save Hermione and Cho. One had used a spell to have a kind of diving suit that allowed him to breathe and the other had an incomplete animagus transformation into a shark. Seeing that Fleur did not arrive and time was running out, he decided to act. The mermaids and mermen saw his intentions and approached to stop him.

-¡To hell with the trial! ¡I'm not going to leave it here!- He yelled at them even though only bubbles came out of his mouth and he pointed his wand at them to make them back away. Thankful that they didn't know that he couldn't fight them underwater, he used his wandless magic again to free the girl and began to swim as fast as he could, which was difficult since the weight of the two of them was sinking him. a little for each time I went up -"This way I will never reach the surface. I must go up faster" he thought and then a spark went off in his head. With a quick movement of his hands he took his wand out of his pocket while he tried to hold Draco and the girl firmly with the other. When he made sure that they were securely fastened, he pointed his hand. wand down -¡Ascendio!- he said shouting as loud as possible although only a huge bubble came out of his mouth, but he still managed it and the three were propelled at high speed upwards, after repeating the spell a couple more times. he had already managed to get out and at the exact moment since he could feel how the effect of the gillweed disappeared and his body returned to normal and he felt comfortable because of the oxygen that was entering his lungs. As soon as they stepped onto solid ground, the rescued opened their eyes and came out of their trance.

Draco smiled as he came to his senses and when he saw the girl, he raised his eyebrow -¿Did you rescue her too?-

-Fleur didn't show up. I couldn't leave her there- he said as caught his breath.

-Wait...¡Don't tell me you took the song seriously!? ¡Dumbledore wouldn't have let us drown there!

-But the song...

-¡It was just to make sure you hurried back! -replied the blonde -For being so intelligent, sometimes you can be very naive-

Harry felt like a fool, of course Dumbledore wouldn't let anyone die and if they were really in danger the other champions would have turned to help him. At that moment Fleur Delacour appeared, screaming almost hysterically, thinking about returning to the water to rescue her hostage, but after seeing her safe she calmed down. She had some cuts and bruises, apparently she had an unpleasant encounter with the Gryndlows.

-You saved my sister even though it was not your goal "Megci beaucoup" -and she gave him a kiss on both cheeks which left him very red -You helped too- told to Draco.

-Yes, well, we couldn't leave that poor girl there- he said, hiding his enthusiasm for the girl's future gratitude, who also kissed him on both cheeks. When all the champions were already gathered, Ludo Bagman asked for silence and began to give the results. Fleur was congratulated for having used the bubble-helmet charm, but since she couldn't get past the Gryndlows they only gave her 25 points, Cedric Diggory got 47 points, Viktor Krum for his semi-shark transformation was given 45. When it was Harry's turn, he was already imagining the lower score and Professor Snape's lectures for his lack of common sense.

-Mr Harry Potter used the gillweed wisely, but he arrived last and beat the deadline. However, the mermaid boss informed us that he was the first to arrive and that the reason for the delay was his firm stance on taking Miss Delacour's hostage and not leaving her behind. Most agree that it was a noble and heroic act, so we awarded him 40 points - and almost everyone jumped out of his seat applauding him, noticing that Karkaroff did not agree with the score but tried to pretend it did. Harry didn't care, he had gotten a great result and it was the only thing he was worth.

-Well, you weren't so stupid after all. It was worth it for you to play the hero.

-¿Are you saying that because of the score or because of Fleur's gratitude?-

-Both- he replied as he rubbed his hand across his cheek.

-The third and final test will take place at dusk on the twenty-fourth of June - Bagman continued - The champions will be notified what this test consists of just one month before. Thank you all for your support and enthusiasm for this event.

-"Well that's it, now I can only rest...and study in peace. Maybe I can practice my magic without a wand" - thought Harry as he retired to celebrate with his friends and thought about all the stockings he was going to buy for Dobby.

The next few days were quite entertaining. Sirius had sent him a letter asking them to meet on a road near the town of Hogsmeade and to please bring lots of food. They were going to double potions class and he just saw that some of the girls from Slytherin and also from Griffindor were looking at them and murmuring while giggling, as if they knew something that the others didn't. One of them gave her a copy of "Witch's Heart," a magazine dedicated to gossip and trivial topics in the wizarding world. While the professor was writing down on the blackboard the ingredients of the potion that Hermione would prepare, she began to leaf through the magazine under her desk. He noticed a big headline, obviously written by Rita Skeeter, in which he called her a go-getter who sought out famous boyfriends like Harry Potter and Viktor Krum. In a paragraph she says that the famous player confessed to her that he had never had feelings for another girl, and that he also invited her to visit him during the summer holidays. In the other paragraphs there were comments from some girls from both Slytherin and other houses, who accused her of having used love potions to have obtained the attention of both champions, since due to her mediocre appearance no one would notice her, in addition to that she was an unbearable know-it-all.

-¿Did he really confess her feelings to you and invite you to visit him on vacation?- Harry asked quietly.

-¡¿How/What?!- Malfoy and Ron said at the same time at that fact.

-Shhh- the girl told them -Snape will hear you- Let's better concentrate on class-

-¿How did Skeeter know all that? They were alone and I don't remember seeing her around-

-Maybe he uses an invisibility cloak, we do it all the time- said Draco, reminding him of the adventures of previous years.

-Mad-Eye Moody would have noticed. " once asked my father about his magic eye. It seems that in addition to seeing through his head when he turns, he can also see through invisible layers- Ron told them in a low voice.

-"Great, another professor besides Dumbledore who would also see us if we sneaked out at night hidden through my and Draco's cloak."

-¿You're going to visit Krum?" Ron asked her in a tone that seemed almost an accusation. Before she responded they were reprimanded by the Potions professor.

-You can save your personal and dramatic stuff for after class, Potter and Granger,-he told them in a stern tone and with a wave of his wand he made the magazine come out from under the desk in his hand -Ahh ¿Magazines under the desk? Five points less for both houses! Of course, Mr. Potter is really busy with his fan club. Let's see what's so important... well, well- he said scathingly when he saw the content. Read aloud by Snape, the article sounded ten times worse. And the laughter of his fellow Slytherins didn't help either.

-¡What a tragedy! It seems that even fame is not enough for Mr. Potter to get a girlfriend...or maybe Miss Granger prefers to date men and not boys- and at those comments, for the first time in a long time, the potions classroom was filled with laughter and applause -¡The show is over! ¡I want you to start preparing potions now! And whoever does not achieve it will be reprimanded. Potter, you bring your things here, so I'll make sure you don't waste time talking about your love life - and made him cut the ingredients in front of his classmates, the good thing is that the fear that Snape will take away more points kept them focused in their jobs.

The man approached him, stood almost with his back to the class and began to whisper so that no one else could hear him - You may think that the rules and regulations do not apply to you Potter but let me tell you that you are wrong. Stealing from a teacher is a serious crime, so if he breaks into my office again and takes my things...

-I haven't entered your office- he told him, trying to maintain his composure, it was a half-truth since he had sent Dobby but he had no alternatives and the good thing is that he had no evidence either.

-Don't lie to me, gillyweed is harmless and a good option for since I doubt you know how to use the bubble helmet charm correctly, but...African tree snake skin. I guess you know what it's for-

-Polyjuice Potion-

-Exactly, a complicated but very useful potion, especially for the small and big criminals. If you take anything from my office again, don't think you will get away with it, you will be punished and even if Dumbledore and Moody defend you, I will prove that it was you, even if I have to force you to drink the truth potion if necessary-

Harry felt a shudder as he imagined himself in that situation but his mind reminded him of something - I understand that his use is regulated by order of the Ministry, in addition to using it on a student without authorization is a crime - he replied smiling.

-It seems like you know a lot about this potion. Maybe that's why you offered to drink it in front of the judges, during the selection of champions. You knew they wouldn't use it, not with the "boy who lived", how easy it is to act noble when you knows there is no danger or risk. That thing about staying to save Miss Delacour's hostage... I doubt even you would be foolish enough to believe we would let the students drown- Harry couldn't hide the anger on his face and Snape was enjoying it. Everyone knew that the man showed favoritism with those in his house, but he seemed willing to make an exception for him, but he would not allow himself to be dominated by his emotions as he did at the lake "if he were a student I would challenge him to a duel but he is a teacher and head of my house. I better concentrate on what I can do, which is this potion," he said to himself as he poured the beetle powder into the cauldron and began to cut ginger roots.

Fortunately, they knocked on the door and when the teacher gave permission for them to enter, they were both surprised that it was Principal Karkaroff -Severus, we have to talk -You've been avoiding me, I know you've felt it too, it's stronger than it's ever been since...- he told her, making a gesture of rolling up his arm.

-¡Cover that! ¡And keep your voice down! After class Igor, not now- he told him in a cold tone and the man left but it was obvious that he was going to wait on the other side for class to end. Harry wondered why he was so urgent about what he wanted to tell her and the most important thing was to find out how the two of them knew each other and if they were up to something.

The day came when he could meet Sirius again, Ron told them that he couldn't go since he was the only one who hadn't done Professor McGonagall's homework, everyone snorted, especially Hermione who reproached him that he should be more responsible. and not always depend on your notes. Harry, Draco and Hermione went to Hogsmeade and at the end of the street a large black dog was waiting for them, who upon seeing them and sniffing the food wagged his tail excitedly. They followed him for a long journey towards the outskirts until they almost reached a mountain. Everyone was sweaty but the one who looked the most tired was the blonde. Harry couldn't help but smile.

-We should have brought the brooms, but Hermione doesn't know how to fly. I almost envy Weasley for staying, we've been following him for a while. -

-I think we should exercise more, you won't always be able to use your wand or enjoy the comforts of high society- he responded with a shrug. Then they came to a small cold and damp cave, which was a relief for the three of them who were tired and sweaty. They saw the hippogriff that had escaped the previous year, after bowing the animal returned the gesture and invited them to sit down.

While the dog assumed his human form they passed him the food they had brought - ¡Food! ¡Thanks to Merlin! I almost always feed on rats, I try not to steal too much food or I will attract a lot of attention - he told them while he took a big bite of the chicken leg, he was very thin and ragged, almost like when they had seen each other the first time.

-It is very dangerous that you are here. You should ask Professor Dumbledore to find some shelter or place to stay-

-I prefer to be here, it is difficult to put everything in a letter and the chimneys are not always safe. Strange things are happening, I've been reading the newspapers that people have thrown away, Something's about to happen - and Harry noticed the newspapers that were on the floor, which mentioned the conspicuous absence of Barty Crouch both at work and at home, and the disappearance of the witch called Bertha Jorkins, whom the Minister himself assures will participate in her search.

-It is strange that Crouch is absent so much, he was always very dedicated to his work. He was very focused on organizing the Triwizard Tournament and then he stops going. Maybe he was overdoing it, but it's still not like him-

-He deserves it for firing his elf. Harry told us that he is now working in the school kitchens, without her help he may now value her more and realize the serious mistake she made - said Hermione.

-She used to do everything for him, my father told me that he always sent his elf to save him a seat for the games but she never went, she stayed saving the seat for him, even though she feels uncomfortable because of heights she never left. -

-I hope she can be happier with his new job instead of continuing to regret her previous master-

-Hermione is involved in activism for the rights of house elves- Harry told him -Now she has a job at school, with Dobby- he told

-But they don't accept them, they should all follow Dobby's example and earn a decent wage, like any job-

-¿Do you know Crouch?- She asked, trying to change the subject.

-Yes, he was the one who sentenced me to Azkaban, without trial- and everyone was surprised -He was always a great wizard with political ambitions and thirst for power...But never an ally of Voldemort, in fact, he was a faithful enemy of the dark arts. He was who authorized the aurors to use the unforgivable curses against the Death Eaters, sometimes they used excessive force, but they were never reprimanded or punished, since at that time the magical and muggle world was in absolute chaos, terror and death lurking everywhere, no one could be trusted. etc. People wanted everything to be solved as soon as possible, regardless of the methods, and Barty Crouch seemed to be the solution. After Voldemort's fall, it was a matter of time before he ascended to Minister of Magic.

-¿And what happened?-

-His son was sent to Azkaban, some Aurors had caught some former followers of the Dark Lord, and Barty Crouch Jr was with them- Draco said, and Harry and Hermione looked at him in surprise -Among them were the Lestranges- and Sirius did a grimace of disgust upon hearing that name. Harry wanted to ask about them but Hermione interrupted him.

-¿Was his own son a Death Eater?-

-That was never known, maybe he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, or he was just a stupid kid who joined some criminals without knowing what they were capable of. The only thing is that it was the end of Barty's career.

-Of course, was it because he tried to help his son?- the girl asked and at that question Draco made a mocking face and Sirius laughed loudly.

-¿Are you kidding? A pure-blooded politician like him would not let anything or anyone stain his name and the career for which he worked so hard. The most paternal thing the boy did for him was to give him a trial, but it was a show for people to see that he was nothing like him and he applied the full weight of the law, sending him to Azkaban for life. I could hear him shouting for his mother, after a while he calmed down. Everyone calms down...The boy died a few years later-

-¡Poor boy!-

-Anyway, we've already talked and it's starting to get dark, you better come back. Focus on the last test and keep your eyes open, same for you two- he said to Hermione and Draco. Harry gave him a big hug, the man smelled very bad but Harry didn't care, it was the only family he had left and his connection with his parents, besides Lupin.

-We'll see each other soon- the man told him. Harry asked him if he could transform back into a dog, the man nodded strangely and when he returned to his animal form of a black dog Harry pointed his wand at him -Forgive me but it is for your own good- and a strong jet of water came out of his wand and then foams and bubbles. While he asked her friend to give him a small towel that she had brought in her backpack, the dog barked and growled, complaining about the involuntary bath.

-Calm down Sirius, you're upsetting Buckbeak- the girl told him.

-I'm almost done...Done! Now to finish ¡Engorgio!-And he enlarged the small towel so that it was big enough to dry and warm the animal and then -Much better, right?-And the animal grunted.

-I bet my father would have found it funny- he told him and at that comment the dog's mood changed and he wagged his tail in approval.

-We better go Harry-

-Yes, we'll see you soon Sirius- and the three left from there.

The last few weeks went by quickly. Harry had tried to practice his magic without a wand but the most he had managed was to move objects towards his hand, which he could easily do using the summoning charm with his wand, it was frustrating but he was not going to give up and if he could he also practiced other spells with his wands. friends. The third task was approaching and Ludo Bagman had sent for the four champions to go to where the Quidditch matches were normally played, but at that moment a half-built maze was visible in the surroundings. Apparently they should travel through it and reach the cup, but they will have to face several obstacles and overcome enchantments.

-I wish you good luck, miss and gentlemen- he told them. And when it looked like he would approach her again to offer help, he was lucky that Viktor Krum asked him to talk alone while they were walking, apparently he had read what Rita Skeeter had written about them.

-We were never dating, we are very good friends and we also like to compete in classes to see which house gets the most points-

-¿So you never...?-

-She's like the sister I always wanted to have- he replied and Krum's relieved face was quite noticeable.

-I see. Anyway...I wish you luck in the last trial, I saw you fly, you're very good-

Harry couldn't believe it, a world class player was praising his skills with the broom -Thanks, I heard you also put on a great show at the world cup, that famous move "Wron's feint..." Huh? ¿Did you hear something? - And they heard a noise in some bushes there - ¡Lumos! - He said pointing to the place and they saw a man crawling.

-Isn't he one of the judges? "Barrrty Crrrouch?- Krum asked.

-¡Mr Crouch! ¿What happened to him? ¿Is he okay? -The man did not respond, he seemed to be in a trance and spoke to himself, as if he had been cursed -We must seek help, Mrs. Pomfrey or Dumbledore-

-¡Dumbledore! I must talk to you, I have made a big mistake...I am an idiot...it was all my fault...my son...Bertha Jorkins...- he said regaining his composure then he spoke again into the air, giving instructions to his assistant, Ron's brother, asking him for a cup of tea and to schedule a meeting with Bagman.

When Harry returned from the castle with Dumbledore they found Krum unconscious and Crouch missing. The principal pointed his wand at the student -Ennervate!-

-Krum ¿Are you OK? ¿What happened?-

-¡He attacked me! w was waiting for Potter to come back and attacked me-

-¿You're sure? In the state he seemed incapable of harming anyone, he was barely maintaining his sanity- And then Moody arrived, along with Karkaroff and Snape.

-¡Damn leg! I would have arrived earlier. I'll go investigate, I'll go alone, I prefer to work like I see something I will send you a signal- he told them as he went to inspect the surroundings.

-¡Treason! First you let Potter participate despite not being of the required age, in addition to giving your school an extra participant, and now one of the judges attacks my student! All those lies about improving the relationship between wizards and leaving old grudges behind! ¡This is what I think of you!- And he spat at the director's feet. Harry was about to say something but Hagrid was faster and slammed him in front of the tree.

-¡Apologize!-

-¡Hagrid Let him go! Harry goes back to school, we will talk about this another time ¿Can you accompany him? -He said to the ranger and he nodded. He wanted to stay and help but he was forced to leave accompanied.

The next day his friends filled him with questions about everything that had happened, but the worst was the letter from Sirius reproaching him for walking with Viktor Krum, reminding him that his life was in danger since his name had appeared in the goblet and It was better for him to concentrate on practicing his offensive and defensive spells.

-¿Who is he to give me sermons? With all the trouble he caused at school and even now he keeps taking risks by walking around Hogsmeade!

-He's worried about you Harry, just like everyone else. You are in a very dangerous situation-

-I'm always in those types of situations, it's not something I look for, but it happens and I always get away with it he told her and the girl gave her those motherly looks -With your help, obviously- he responded, trying to calm her down.

-Still...What plans for today?-

-I'm going to go finish some homework in the library- said Malfoy -¿And you guys?-

-I think I'll go study a little in the common room, I feel like being alone for a while, I'll see you later- Harry said to his friends. After reading for a while about charms and curses he began to see a book about dangerous magical creatures. If they were first made to evade a dragon, an animal that flies and breathes fire, and then faced various aquatic creatures, he assumed that in that maze they would have to fight some beast that one would expect to find in some forest or cave. He already had experience against spiders, fire salamanders, Boggarts, so he started reading about large magical beasts, especially those that usually protect places. After a while, fatigue began to overcome him, the sofa seemed to feel more comfortable and after closing his eyes for a few seconds he fell into a deep sleep. He could see a figure had his back turned in a large armchair, talking to Wormtail, the man who had betrayed his parents and let Sirius take the blame for 13 years. The enormous snake surrounded the figure and hissed, apparently his master was in a good mood because he had received excellent news but he still cast the Cruciatus curse on the vassal who was cowering in fear, the man's screams of pain were felt by Harry. As if it were there too, the scar began to burn so much that he felt like he had a burning coal on his forehead.

-¡Harry!- And when he opened his eyes he saw Ginny looking at him scared, she was on the floor and sweating.

-¿What happened?-

-¡I found you trembling on the floor while you were clutching your scar! You should talk to Madam Pomfrey, and then talk to Professor Snape or Dumbledore without a doubt...

-I'm not sick and I wouldn't go asking Snape for help...but talking to Dumbledore is a good idea, there is something I have to tell him and I also have many questions-

-¿Are you sure you're okay?-

-Yes Yes. Don't worry, Ginny, thank you- he told him, forcing a smile and went straight to the director's office. After trying several ridiculous passwords he got lucky and the gargoyle let him through. When he arrived he could hear from the other side of the door Minister Fudge angry about the disappearance of Barty Crouch as well as downplaying the case of the witch called Bertha Jorkins, and even suggesting that the headmistress of Beauxbatons was involved given that Harry and Krum had crossed to Crouch near his carriage and also because of his status as a half-giant -Not everyone is like Hagrid Albus. You've always had a certain preference for him-

-And not all of them are savages like those that McNair executes, with too much pleasure, I must add-

-Gentlemen, I think we should postpone this talk since it is no longer private- Moody added and the door opened. Harry figured he saw it thanks to his eye.

-¡Harry! It's good to see you. We were just talking about what happened with you and Barty Crouch. I'm afraid we haven't had any luck finding it-

-What a pity, from what I remember he seemed to be under a spell, for one moment he was lucid asking to speak with Professor Dumbledore and for another he started talking to him in the air as if he were with his assistant-

-I see ¿And you don't remember seeing anyone else?-

-I'm afraid not- and then he added -I don't think Mrs. Maxime was involved either, besides Professor Moody would have found her, it's not that it's difficult for her to go unnoticed- and Dumbledore smiled. He told her to wait a moment because he had to go check the spells of the labyrinth and protections of the grounds. Harry stayed for a while looking at the portraits of former directors, he crossed paths with the Phoenix that had helped him two years ago against the basilisk, after stroking its soft plumage he noticed Godric Griffindor's hat and sword on a shelf and his emotions came to him. memories of that adventure. His attention was diverted to a kind of vessel similar to a cauldron, but it was made of stone and had runes carved on its surface that he did not understand, the contents shone, he did not like to touch other people's objects and even less those of his director, but his curiosity was more strong and approached. He tried touching it with his wand and images of people began to appear in the liquid, it was like watching a Muggle movie but the images were very small, when he brought his face closer the small touch with his nose was enough to transport him there.

-¿What the hell is this?- he said to himself after seeing that he had gotten into the contents of the cauldron and was surrounded by several people but he was like a ghost, no one could see him, hear him or touch him. He tried to reason as quickly as he could and after a while he understood that he was in a similar place to Riddle's diary as it happened two years ago. Evidently he was inside a memory, more precisely in the director's memories of him. He was a witness at the trial of Karkaroff who had made a deal to give Death Eater names to the ministry in exchange for a reduction in his sentence. Harry was stunned to hear Snape's name among them, he watched as the Dumbledore of memory defended the man, arguing that although he was a servant of Voldemort in the past, he had abandoned his ranks before his fall and would have risked his life countless times helping. to the other side.

Then the dementors brought Ludo Bagman himself but he looked younger, ten or fifteen years younger, apparently he had been accused of working with Death Eaters but he was acquitted since he defended himself by saying that the person to whom he had passed information turned out to be a high-ranking member of the Ministry who everyone was surprised to learn about and lastly saw the trial of Barty Crouch's own son.

-"He doesn't look much bigger than Ron's brothers"- he thought.

He was accompanied by three others, one trembled just like him, the third remained cold but the woman seemed happy to be there, proud of herself. The boy pleaded with his father, who turned a deaf ear while he recited aloud the crimes committed by the accused, including torturing Neville Longbottom's parents, Frank and Alice, to insanity. The only person who seemed to sympathize was a sobbing woman, obviously the boy's mother.

-¡Mother, please don't let them take me! ¡Please father! Don't send me to the dementors again ¡I'm your son!-

-¡You are not my son!- He said, avoiding his gaze.

-Take us to Azkaban, we don't care. The dark lord will return and will not forget those who were loyal to him!- said the woman named Bellatrix Lestrange. Harry couldn't believe the level of madness and fanaticism of that couple. At that moment a hand rested on his shoulder -Harry, I think it's time to go- and he turned around and the Dumbledore he had gone to look for had gotten into the jar and pulled him out of there.

-¡Professor! I... I'm sorry for getting into his memories-

-How intuitive, yes. You entered into old memories of mine and what you see there is called a pensieve. When you are as old as I am, this object is very useful when you want to remember a moment, especially if you think you overlooked something- he answered, placing his wand on his temple and taking out a kind of liquid and placing it inside the vessel which showed another memory of the man. After a while they talked about the dream Harry had had, his connection to Voldemort, the disappearance of Crouch, the witch called Bertha Jorkins and also about Neville Longbottom's parents.

-I would ask you not to tell anyone about that. It's a Neville's private thing.

-They won't know it from me, Neville is a good person and deserves to have his privacy respected- he replied and the man nodded smiling. Harry wanted to know what he thought about whether Barty Crouch's son was innocent or guilty - I'm afraid I couldn't tell you, Harry. Personally I'm afraid to lean yes, but that his only verifiable crime was having associated with criminals like the Lestranges, but Barty Sr. couldn't show mercy, he had to show that he applied the law to everyone without exceptions-

-¿And Mr. Bagman?-

-He was never tried again for any crime, unless his terrible performance in his last days as a player was considered a crime- he said jokingly.

-¿And...?-

-Neither is Professor Snape- he added, erasing the affable tone. Harry wondered what Snape had said or done to make the headmaster trust him so much. And seeming to read his mind, he spoke again - The nature of the relationship I have with the head of your house is not a matter related to you, just as I have no interference in your relationship with your friends, apart from the enormous snake that now lives in our forest- he said almost in an accusatory tone, signaling that they had already finished.

-Yes sir, sorry for the intrusion, I was just curious-

-It is not bad as long as it is accompanied with prudence. Good afternoon Harry, I wish you luck in the third challenge- And he said goodbye to the man, leaving with some answers but many questions he still wanted to ask him.