Dead Pond

by Hawzey

Son of Voldemort and Bellatrix. Mortimer was content in his own little world. That is until an old man with the shiniest eyes appears. Now he has to adapt into this new and strange world. With no one to really 'guide' him, Mortimer must now navigate his way and find his own footing. Hopefully the year goes smooth. . . Going on year 4.

53. Chapter 53

AN: Ssssoorryyy. . . (ee) Follow/Fav/Review Oh! And... ~Happy Holidays~ Thank you for reading!

The next day, the energy around school shifted. This early in the school year is always boring and uneventful. However, the reopening of the Triwizard Tournament has made many students and professors lively with excitement. The First Task is near, and everyone else can't stop talking about it, murmuring at every corner about each Champion.

It was morning, usually this meant everyone was too tired to do anything besides sleep at the table. But there was none of that today. The great hall had a cheerful aurora to it, students were laughing, and many voices filled the whole area. Mortimer still couldn't believe the events of yesterday. It started right after he went to bed, not thinking much of it, he expected to dream and wake up. Though, things had ended differently, and not in a good way. He hasn't slept since, and his eyes felt heavy with tiredness.

Draco was probably still sleeping. The poor boy had stayed up alongside Mortimer, stressing the chance that he might start sleepwalking again. It was at sunrise when Draco's eyes slowly began to drift until he had succumbed to sleep. As he did, Mortimer shot up from his bed and began to dress himself.

Sitting at the Great Hall, owls rained down, delivering today's mail. A dark-feathered owl, flocking onto the tables, lowered itself, dropping a package. It then proceeded to fly in circles before settling on the left side of where Mortimer was sitting. A well-known bird belonging to his aunt had a letter caught between its beak.

Once he took the letter, he gave the owl a piece of cooked ham. It shortly flaps its wings and ascends back to the sky.

Inspecting the package, it would seem she had sent him another supply drop of ginger snaps. Taking a bite, he decides to read her letter. There were two letters attached, one meant for him and Draco. He set the other aside and read the one labeled with golden ink, tearing the seal with the big 'M'. He read it silently.

The letter didn't say much, only that she hopes things are going well and that he is keeping busy with his studies. She mentions that their suits will be finely pressed and delivered to them the day before. He rolls his eyes; she couldn't help but stress the importance of making the proper impression. Aunt Cissy also felt the need to add a list of potential daughter's names for him to take to the Yule Ball.

The idea of approaching any of them made his face sour. It was bad enough that he had to go; now she expects him to take someone with him?

Putting the letter aside, he thought about writing to her after breakfast. Once Draco wakes up, the two of them can go together.

Soon after, more children arrived, followed by some of the foreign students. Currently, he is sitting near the first-year students, and they are huddled around him as Mortimer teaches them the hand movement of the stickfast hex.

Tracing the motion on top of the fine wooden table, he used his index finger and explained to the curious children. "And then you cast Colloshoo. If you ever need to glue someone's feet to the ground, it can be useful if you're being chased."

There were a few awed and approving nods as their eyes gleamed. "Can you teach us another one?" asked one of the children, a small blond boy.

He found their fascination endearing and smiled when others joined their table. Continuing, Mortimer used his finger again, drawing a sort of tear-shaped image. "The incantation is Mucus ad Nauseam."

"What does that mean?" A girl questions, tilting her head.

Mortimer smirked as he answered. "Mucus and nausea. Also known as the curse of the boogies." Wiggling his fingers at them, they jumped back in surprise.

The children all began to laugh, some with sour looks on their faces as images of a victim popped into their tiny heads. "Ew...!" They would all mutter out, covering their mouths and proceeding to giggle.

"I will admit, it's not really useful except for maybe ruining someone's day." Mortimer chuckles out.

"Why don't they teach us that in charms?" A child asks from the side.

"I'm sure they will eventually." Mortimer shakes his head. "You're still in your first year - plenty of time to learn the spells."

"What if we don't?" One of the younger children wonders, their small voice sounding perplexed. "My father says that purebloods won't be hidden for long, does that mean I can't come here no more?"

His eyelids lift briefly, starting down at the curious little boy. "What an odd thing to say. You're in slytherin, are you not?"

"B-But I'm a half-blood." The boy lamented, glancing his bright eyes away. "They don't like me."

"Who?"

"The older kids." He whispers, almost afraid that someone might hear him.

At that point, friends of the boy - Mortimer assumed - came together to show support. There was sympathy for the boy that quickly warmed his heart. Studying them closer, he couldn't help but compare them to other houses. Hufflepuff couldn't compete with the unity Slytherins shared, no better than this moment.

Their heartwarming gesture, Mortimer glances away briefly and speaks. "They seem to like you just fine -" And then he made an excuse. "The older kids just like to find things to hate."

"Why?"

"Pft~ Boredom."

"Do they hate you?" A petite girl speaks out.

Smiling at the group of youths that surrounded him around the table, he was amazed by their openness, they ask without any subtly. "Oh - Definitely. Though, they won't say it directly in front of me." He pauses, drawing his lips together. "But I know."

"Why?"

He merely shrugs, after which, decides to grab a muffin from one of the baskets. "For a number of reasons. I assume it has something to do with my name."

A little girl smiled up at Mortimer as he takes a slow bite. "Your name? Sounds silly."

"It is." Mortimer nods in agreement, talking while chewing. "My name carries weight - It's a dying house, but we're still very much wealthy. Many wizarding families have fought over it since the other one was locked in Azkaban."

Power and wealth are what they sought. Black was a crumbling house and yet, it didn't stop others from trying to obtain it. Making claims about their relation, it wasn't until his birth that any hopes of taking ownership was locked from their very paws.

The mention of Sirius made half of the children shiver, pale faces. "I hope to never run into him." One of the kids said.

"Scary." Another comments. "I'm glad he's away."

A short bite, Mortimer muffles. "Me too."

Mortimer and the children talked throughout breakfast, discussing the funny things they saw during their time in Hogwarts. Laughing, Mortimer had almost forgotten about the sleepwalking incident until he spotted Potter. He was sitting at the Gryffindor table; Granger was across from him.

Getting a sense that Potter wanted to talk to him, he looks around before deciding to get to up. Mortimer waves down at the children, saying goodbye. "Let's do this again." He finally says, finishing what little he ate.

Mortimer thought his day was already ruined after Draco's outburst in the forbidden forest. But walking alongside Potter as he wormed his way in, seemingly made it worse. He already knew something was up the minute Harry stared at him from all the way across the great hall, playing at his food without actually eating it. Hoping it was just his imagination, Potter materializes behind him like some sort of shadow as he was heading to the library.

Whilst many of the students trample up and down the grand staircase on their way to their own common rooms, Mortimer was briefly snatched away and brought out of the castle.

"I haven't told Hermione yet - I plan on telling her though, I just sort of wanted to get an outside opinion." Harry's feet moved slowly as he huffs out. "You told me that if I needed something, that I could come to you..."

Mortimer's dulls at the recollection. "Yeah. . . I remember."

"I'm not sure what to do - It's not just the tournament that's gotten me bothered." He raises, his voice was fairly hesitant. "It's Karkaroff."

"Karkaroff?" Mortimer, lifting a brow, asks. What did he have to do with Potter? "You mean, the headmaster of the other school that's competing? That Karkaroff?"

Nodding his head, Harry further says. at the same time, lowers his tone. "Sirius wrote to me." Quickly looking around to make sure it's safe. "He said Karkaroff was a death eater."

"Really, you don't say?" He was veritably stunned. He wasn't aware one of his father's followers had been anywhere near him. "How was he allowed to walk out in the first place?"

"Sirius said he made a deal with the ministry of magic. He sold out some of his death eater pals just so he could walk free." He inhales. "He's probably the one who put my name in the goblet." For a second, his brows. "Somehow I have a hard time believing it."

"Why's that?"

"He was peeved when he saw me - Tried to get Dumbledore to stop me from competing."

That did seem odd. But perhaps, the man was simply pretending to avoid suspicion. He thought having Moody was bad, Karkaroff was another wizard to be weary of. Though, Mortimer doubted Karkaroff would come after him. It was likely he'd connect him to Bellatrix - The name kind of made it obvious - but he didn't believe he'll be able to link him and Tom.

And Harry - Well... Mortimer was glad it was him instead. He'd hate to be in shoes right about now. "Is that why Moody was hired? To watch over Karkaroff."

"It makes sense, don't you think?"

"Yeah." Mortimer mutters, sounding rather skeptical. He couldn't exactly figure it out, but something didn't feel right with him about the ex-auror.

"There's more." Harry speaks, his tone continues to lower and a shift in his body changes when his jaw tightens. "Sirius has noticed death-eater activity since the Quidditch Cup. He mentioned something else... A witch went missing, Bertha Jorkins, who worked at the Ministry."

"So?"

Harry sighed, rolling his eyes. "So... she's missing." He highlights stressfully. Yet, Mortimer didn't respond the way he would've wanted. "She was last seen in Albania- Where Voldemort was last heard."

Hissing, he muttered a huffy curse, then his head snapped his way. "You don't actually believe he'd go after her, do you? I would've gone after someone far more important." Putting into perspective, but probably should have thought it through.

"It's not like he had a choice of victims considering he's weak. He could've lured her and found out about the tournament."

"And you believe he sent Karkaroff to make sure you're in the tournament - To get you killed."

"It's a good plan."

"It is."

After several minutes of walking through the school grounds, the two boys remained quiet. Setting the topic of death eaters to the side, Mortimer asks. "The first task is coming up soon."

As if someone had thrown a brick on his head, Harry recoils at the sudden realization that in just a few days, he'll be thrown into a death pit. The chances of surviving seemed unlikely for those involved and can only end in disaster. "Yeah, I guess you're right."

Harry could feel his stomach turn with dread. "Dragons," he whispered. "Bloody dragons."

"I still can't believe it." Mortimer snorts in disbelief, who would've thought... "Those big giant beasts, with their large wings and sharp teeth - Capable of shooting fire and impaling anyone with their horns, and let's not forget about their unbreakable skin. No magic can touch them, they'll eat you before you can even process -"

"Will you shut up!" Harry snaps that cause a small echo through the grounds. "I'm screwed, I know. You can celebrate after I'm dead. For now, I'd like a moment to actually think of how I'm going to survive."

Maybe he shouldn't have mentioned all of that. Potter didn't have any option so rubbing it in his face probably wouldn't do him any good. "It's alright, Harry. I wouldn't let you die so quickly - I still need you alive."

"Great, thanks." Harry scoffed and the two of them paced down the small steps, walking the grounds further.

Mortimer grinned, looking over his shoulder, there was a small group of students walking back inside the castle. "And I'm sure you'll have Granger helping you, just let her do thing and I'm sure you'll be alright."

Harry had paused, furrowing his forehead, afraid to admit but for some reason had confessed to Black of all people. "I know Hermione means well. But she can sometimes be so annoying. She doesn't understand how it feels. She thinks a bloody book will solve every problem and scolds me for not listening. It makes me feel worse. . . That's not to say she's a bad friend," He shakes his head aggressively. "because she isn't." Pressing his lips together, it was getting harder to describe what was bother him. "She can just be..."

Seeing him struggle, Mortimer took a guess. "Bossy? A know it all?"

A shameful nod, Harry lowers his eyes to the ground where he kicked a few pebbles back.

"It'll be our secret, Potter."

He doesn't comment. But there was an appreciation from the small glint in his eyes. The following silence goes on for what seemed like hours.

"You wouldn't have any advice, would you?" Harry asks impatiently, his tone was unmistakable agitation.

Staring back at Mortimer as the two of them had made it to the great lake. There was a horde of birds flying south while the sky grew a little lighter. The change in imagery did help for a bit as the small waves surfaced the gravel ground.

Running away seemed like a good one.

Seemingly unfazed, Mortimer merely shrugged. "I hate to agree with Granger. But I think you should do your research. Maybe you'll be able to find a weak spot and hit it there." Putting his hands inside his pockets, Mortimer lifts his eyes to look up at the grey sky. "There's still time to figure it out."

"That's easy for you to say, you're not the one who has to go against a dragon." Harry scoffs, shaking one hand in the air.

Snuggling his scarf closer whenever the air hit his face. "You know, it's that kind of negativity that makes it harder to come up with a plan."

"Well pardon me, I wasn't aware that I was forbidden from freaking out considering I might lose my life fighting a real dragon." He reiterates, making sure his voice was clear.

"See? There you go again." Mortimer sighs, he stops in the middle of their stroll. "Let's rest a bit." Scouting around, he spots one of the stone benches and goes to sit down.

Harry isn't sure this was going to help. Nonetheless, he follows him and lets out a huff of breath. For a short while, they distantly stare and utter not a single word. Listening to the soothing sounds of gentle waves and crinkling branches coming from trees.

Cool as the wind, Mortimer curiously eyes the sulked boy without moving his head. Potter appeared tense, his shoulders were sharpened, his hands were fidgeting, and his jaw was slightly clenched.

Harry was in his own thoughts with his own fears. Distracted so that he doesn't notice Mortimer burrowing his hand inside his pocket. There was a minor crumpling coming from him, it was unnoticeable.

Unwrapping ginger snap biscuits that his aunt had sent him this morning, he waves one in front of Harry's face. He flinches back a bit when he offers him the treat.

"Take it." Mortimer flicks his hand again. "They're fresh."

Harry gives him a questionable look - Mortimer could almost see the bags underneath his eyes. Perhaps, he was too tired to even question it that Harry takes it and gives it a quick bite, muttering thanks in the process.

It becomes quiet again. Harry, thinking of a way to overcome the first task and Mortimer, trying to make sense of this.

The day prior Harry entered the library, searching for Hermione no doubt. What he found instead was Mortimer. Minding his own business and working on his assignments, he was surprised when Harry blurted out the first challenge of the tournament.

A dragon.

A real life, fire breathing - man eating - dragon!

Mortimer has never seen one, granted very few wizards have since they were extremely dangerous. They can swallow you whole and still have room for seconds, it is why they are kept away from the public view. It will truly be interesting to see how each champion will deal with the overly sized creature.

To be honest, Mortimer didn't think he should be here. Shockingly enough, Harry came to him and not Granger, nor Weasley. Where things really that bad between the three? The sound of Potter's voice was slightly shaky whenever he spoke. The more Harry talked, the more it became clear to Mortimer.

Harry was scared.

Though, there was a lack of sympathy coming from students. They were still determined to believe that Harry had somehow manipulated the goblet in his favor. Regardless, Mortimer thought the interaction wouldn't last long and that Harry would go back to Granger or come begging to Weasley.

However, none of that ever happened.

Now, they were sitting next to each other, chatting as if they had suddenly become friends. It made Mortimer weary, afraid Draco would come out at any moment and the betrayal in his face would instantly guilt him for it.

It was the weekend and at that point, most students decided to stay in. It was favorable for him as Mortimer didn't necessary want to be seen with anyone.

His popularity was on the line. . .

He sighed.

Who was he fooling.

The only reason he hasn't been publicly lynched as of this moment has solely been Potter's doing. The whole world seemed so against him; Harry could hardly show his face around the school without being laughed at.

Mortimer wouldn't like to admit just how much he was enjoying it; probably more than he should.

Nonetheless, seeing the look on Potter's face, the boy needed help.

I'd rather pull my own teeth...

Exhaling all this pent-up breath as he fought between decisions, he glanced to Potter and then the lake. If what Harry said about Karkaroff and the ploy set up by Tom, then he was knee deep in shit. He recalls the conversation they had at the train. Harry was telling him about his dream and what Voldemort had been telling the no-good rat, Peter Pettigrew.

Tom needed Mortimer to complete his plan. The plan? Mortimer didn't know. It angers him beyond to have to sit back until his father decides to go after him.

Agitated from simply sitting, Mortimer gets up and marches right in front of the great lake. Waves surfacing, it nearly touches the tip of his shoes. He contemplates when gazing at the dreary view. The sky was grey, and the clouds had taken over, leaving not a sign of light to see.

His hands resting behind his back, Mortimer decides to take out his wand. Aiming downward, he mutters to himself before a thin string of water emergers up from the surface.

If only there was a way to find out if what Harry was saying was true. If Voldemort is truly behind the goblet's choice. But then the same question reappears to annoy him.

Why him?

Why Harry?

There was a strain of jealousy, going far as to say... possessive?

Harry swallowed hard as he spoke. "Do you think that maybe..." His mind reeling, managing to get out a request. "you can come with?" A bit sheepishly and Mortimer arched a brow at him before speaking.

"You aren't serious, are you?" Glancing over his shoulder as he held his wand. He notes how close Harry had gotten and retained himself reacting too much.

However, his serious features told him otherwise.

"We could use a different perspective." Harry responds, studying the neat little trick Mortimer was doing with the water.

For a minute, he was taken aback. "We?" He purses and lowers his eyes.

"Me and Hermione." Harry's lips twitched in amusement. "We've noticed you hanging around the library a lot - Hermione even told me you somehow managed to get in the restricted section. . ."

"Why, yes." Mortimer answers with a small smile, lightly raising his hand to further increase the effect of his magic. "Professor Snape gave me permission."

Harry's eyes went wide. "No kidding?"

"It's true." Mortimer sighed as he admits. "Signed the slip himself and put a stamp on it."

Harry was too quick to ask. "What were you doing in the restricted section?"

"Researching." He swerves his wrist gently.

"What were you researching?" An awe escapes his mouth as he continues to see what he'll do next. "Hermione saw you there, she said you were trying to kill me using undetectable poisons - I don't actually believe her."

He chuckles, he didn't think she'd buy it.

"So... what were you doing there?" He asked again.

Although, Mortimer never responds, seemingly occupied with his own wand the reaction he gets out of him is a small taunting laugh, like he knew something Harry didn't.

Suffice to say it annoys Harry.

There was hesitation on his part when Mortimer hears him and begins to speak. "I have an invisibility cloak." He starts. "It's been passed down through generations - My father left it for me before. . . he died."

A little bargaining tool.

Mortimer said nothing.

But his tactic was enough to satisfy him. Granted, Potter could be lying. Yet, something told him not worry as the mention of his father quickly put a certain weight in his voice.

He guessed that indulging Mortimer on a private matter would convince him enough to return the favor. And it worked when Harry caught sight of his growing grin. "I was researching about Morfin Gaunt."

"Who?"

"My father's uncle." Adjusting his hold. "You probably didn't know this, but Voldemort belongs to a family known as the Gaunts. They were direct descendants of Slytherin. His mother was Gaunt; my grandmother..." He sides glances for a second before looking away. "And they are just as crazy."

There was gasp that went undetected. Mortimer didn't appear much affected at the mention of his own mother. He kept his hand trained at the lake as he continues to gently rotate it.

Harry probably knows he was pushing his luck when he couldn't help but ask. "So... what were you searching?"

"The Gaunt heirloom." Mortimer replies coolly. "I was supposed to receive mines the minute Morfin died. But. . . they've all but gone missing. I was told it was worn by Slytherin himself, and even carried some kind of old magic. I wanted to research if such a thing existed." He sighs, defeatedly. "I wasn't able to find much."

Harry processes his words; he couldn't tell if he was lying or not. Hearing Mortimer talk about his family in way that didn't make him flinch was somewhat surprising. They might've not hanged around each other enough to be able to tell, however, Harry managed to pick on a few things from other encounters.

One of them being the utter hatred he had for his parents. The way Mortimer avoided looking at anyone directly in the eyes for too long. He was deadly quiet; he was often seen alone. Also, not to forget, how often he cracked his neck, Harry was stunned he hadn't broken it yet.

"How did you convince Snape to write you a permission slip? I thought he hated you!" Running a confusing hand through his messy hair.

Mortimer shared the same confusing and shocked expression. "I did too!" He exclaims. "I guess I made him pity me enough. I actually thought he was going to kick me out for bringing it up."

Harry stared, perplexed at Black, "I read about him, Morfin, in the paper..." mentions to him. "He died over the summer, didn't he?"

Emotionless, Mortimer provides a mere nod. "He was given the dementors kiss."

Frowning in confusion, his brows knit deeply. "How come?"

"I'm not sure." Mortimer said plainly, he decides to quit meddling with the lake and slowly lowers his hand. "Uncle Lucius said he'd finally gone mad that he posed a danger to everyone. Thus, ending the Gaunt line. . . for good, I suppose."

Harry stood quiet and halts, gazing over the swaying lake.

Mortimer didn't sound too concern. Although, there was a small solemn in his eyes, from what Harry could describe as regret.

The harrowing feeling twisting in his stomach as Mortimer gazes back at him. The regret vanishes and is replaced by amusement.

"Some people have all the luck." Stepping back, he clicked his tongue, a small extending as he turns to walk back in the direction of the castle. "I'm sure you'll figure it out Harry and try not worry so much. I'll be rooting for you."

He didn't answer back as he was at a loss for words. Glancing at Mortimer's back, his parting words sent small shivers down his spine. The wind began to pick up and Harry can only watch, if he stared enough, he thought he could a long dark ray of a shadow emanating from the ground as it goes in the direction of where Mortimer was going.

Rubbing his left eye, he thought he was just seeing things, he never had the best eyesight to begin with so perhaps it was his mind playing a trick.

He had enough to worry about. He didn't need to add Mortimer to the list.

---

"Hello, Mortimer." Grabbing his attention, Mortimer was amused to hear Luna over the blaring wind that was approaching.

It hadn't been long since they spoke. Actually, it was just yesterday, over their first trip to hogsmeade and their little adventure at the shrieking shack, that Mortimer was relieved to see such a friendly face. There were only so many people he could tolerate in a day, Luna was a miracle in itself as he never thought she'd be considered a close friend.

He had been proven wrong for the better as Luna could read people well enough, him included. Feeling a slight tug on his arm, he looked down to see Luna looking at him, trying to pull him out of his trance.

"I need your help." Her worry began to show more as she went on. "This way." Gripping his hand, she swiftly leads him right out of the school grounds, passing by Harry, where they had last conversed just a few minutes ago.

Harry watched them go towards the pathway of the forbidden forest, confused as he stands there, Mortimer could only imagine what he must think of the two of them.

"Luna, where are we going?" Mortimer asked, he was being clumsy as walked. He almost tripped on some rocks and slipped on the wet leaves when Luna drags him pass several trees.

"A great question. It will be answered soon enough." Luna offered a small smile - A wait and you'll see, kind of expression, Mortimer had no reason not to press further.

After running and smacking against a few branches, he could tell this was something serious. They continued to sprint-walk up the grounds, through the crowds of woodland groves.

He was being exposed to a new part of the forest, one barely recognizable. Many of the trees were oddly shape, crooked and some were bended over. Saggy, wet, shrubs were loosely above. It was rather misty, making the air around them feel moist.

The ground felt squishy, their wet footsteps when they jogged, she urges him to hurry. Luna then hops, hearing the faint calls within the smokey area.

Mortimer was able to keep up as he hears the sounds too. Brushing away the wooden arms dangling from above, he wonders what part of land they've stumbled on. He wasn't sure whether to be concerned, yet he's never seen her so rile up.

Nearing close, Luna instantly stops in front a massive, dark wooded tree that was far too high for anyone to climb. Close to her feet was a small pile of wet leaves and some twigs, it looked as though it had been built prior to coming her. Lowering her brows, she plops down on her knees and carefully removes the self-made home.

Mortimer soon hears that the noises were none other than very small chirping sounds. Taking steps closer, he stands behind her, peering over her shoulder, he gets a good look at the birds.

However, these weren't your usual birds. Aside from their sharp beaks - What made them appear different was the color of their feathers. They were dark greenish, mixed with a faint of black. Staring above, he counts five. As Luna tries removing the roof of the once home, they begin to hoot and chirp at the disturbance. One of them begins to squirm on the ground, most of the chicks start sticking out their necks.

"The Augurey." Luna says while trying to calm them. "The mother left to go get food."

Humming, Mortimer's heard of the magical bird but has never seen one. "The Irish Phoenix." He slowly recalls, which made him feel slightly nervous upon realizing the nature of said beast. They were usually shy but could easily change when feeling threatened.

Luna nods, giving him a slight side glance. "I found them crying. Their nest was knocked off by the wind, I didn't want to leave so I made them a quick hut to keep them safe."

Leaning down, Mortimer take a closer look at them. He doesn't hesitate to ask. "What can I do?"

"They'll need a new home." She stops for a second to gaze at him. "I'll guard them - They're easy prey for Dugbogs and Acromantulas."

Mortimer nods again and begins to get up. As he was getting ready to move, Luna asks. "Do you know what kind of home they'll want?"

Searching inside his brain he was able to retrieve bits of information - A fun fact, Wizards would sometimes get nervous around them as word around the creature of their cry's foreseen death.

It was later proven wrong. In fact, what they were really promising was future showers. Which reminds him, "Tear shaped." he answers, reminded of how different they were from other beasts.

Gathering the chicks together, Luna smiles brightly and exclaims. "Yes, a wonderful idea."

Without further distractions, Mortimer quickly got to work. Before he can start, he skims through the area as the nest couldn't be made by simply using leaves and twigs. Augurey specifically made their nests out of rubus plants and thorns, which sounds highly uncomfortable for one's skin, but who was he to judge.

After a couple of minutes of scouting the forest, he was able to find a bush. He takes his wand out and cuts down the shrub. Intertwining each piece together, he pricks his finger only once, he was impressed to have made it in just a short amount of time. It was coming along nicely, and he made sure it stuck well together so it wouldn't break easily.

Adjusting it until he was pleased his work, he runs back to Luna. She hadn't left her spot and had kept the crying Augurey's company. "Have you got it?"

Showing it to her, she made a sound of approval and lifts her eyes up and points to the highest skies, telling him briefly. "Now, you just have to put it on its proper place."

Following her eye direction, he was met by a towering tree, he couldn't see just how high it was. The mist made it impossible to see, yet Mortimer could take a guess. "Lumos." He'd cast a light to help guide him.

Narrowing his eyes, he shines a light up to the tree, trying to find a way to get up. There was branch sticking out, it appears sturdy enough. Sighing, he takes a couple steps back before running up towards it. In the last second, makes a jump.

Progressively, he'd climb his way up. The hassle was minor - slightly annoying as he uses his teeth to hold onto the wand while the painful nest was tucked underneath his left armpit.

From below, Luna watches, holding the small creatures as they continued to make those chipping noises.

Five minutes later, he'd come back down while taking big huffs of air. His face was slightly pink, she tilts her head at him. "Are you okay?"

Still trying to catch his breath, he nodded and a moment later, grabbed the green beasts, shoving them inside his sweater. They didn't go quietly and in fact squawked while nestled in. Without another word, Mortimer was off to fulfill her task without any questions. It was quite impressive how fast he could move for someone who wasn't as athletic.

Mortimer climbed through every branch his hand could reach. The smaller Augurey fussed during the trip, one even began to nip at his skin. "Hey, stop that." He shushed, nearly tipping off.

Luna continued cheering him on, hopping in place and telling him he was doing amazing. However, her words were making him nervous as he climbed higher. He was afraid to look down, thinking if he did, he'd get careless and fall to his death. The added pressure from the creatures somewhat made him want to hurry so he could reach solid ground. There was so much hanging above his head that the added idea of the mother showing up made him glance behind him for a good measure. He reminded himself the only reason he was climbing was to help out a friend, an odd and unusual friend.

Climbing near the very top, he grips his hands and tries gluing his feet on the sturdiest branch he could find. Once he settles down his heart, Mortimer starts placing his each Augurey on the tear-shaped nest. They complained and whined, the only time they calmed down was when they planted themselves on the nest.

The last one was carefully placed, and Mortimer calls it a mission success.

All that was left to do was get back.

No sweat!

"Mortimer," He hears Luna shout below. "Their mother has returned - It's better not to look back!"

Before he could register the warning, he turns and finds a large, thin magical bird flying straight at him. At first, he thought it was vulture as its feathers were darker than those of its children. As it got closer, he could faintly see greenish stripped feathers tossed over its body.

Regardless, Mortimer lets out a gasp and starts climbing down.

The larger bird lets out a sharp cry and starts flapping its wings right above his head, showing him their sharp talons, it yells and defends itself from the intruder.

Mortimer swings his arms in attempt to scare it off. The last thing he wanted was to hurt it. But it was difficult not too as it begins to try and peck the top of his head. "Shoo! Go away!"

Damn bird was going to knock him of the tree.

"Careful, Mortimer!" Luna shouts. "Don't move!"

"Are you crazy? Of course i'm going to move!"

"She doesn't feast on the rotten!"

The insult was uncalled for... Swatting his hand back and forth, he drops his wand.

Regretting his decision almost immediately, he soon realizes his mistake. In an attempt to frighten the large, feathered creature, he misses his footing and in turn his balance. Tipping right off the branch, he lets out a sharp gasp.

Gravity as a whole consumes his body as he finds himself falling.

Shooting directly downwards, the aching pain hits his body at a rapid speed. Slamming right on the ground of the teeming damp leaves, Mortimer couldn't even begin to describe it, all he could do in that moment is let out a heavy groan.

His back started to ache. But the pain in his left arm out matched every other body part that was hurting.

"Oh no, Mortimer!" A frantic Luna runs to him. Extending her hands when she kneels down to check on Mortimer's head. "Please don't die here," Her uneasiness grew as he groans again. "the grass won't grow the same if you do."

Shaking him, Mortimer slowly opens one of his eyes. Her long white-blonde hair was pulled back in a well convoluted braid that showed her well-structured cheekbones. Her silver eyes were the only thing that emitted any form of light, she looked so innocent.

But, again, the pain outweighed any thought. "Just leave me here..." Keeping his eyes closed, Luna continues to shake him.

"I could never." She responds softly, pushing strands of his hair back when he kept his eyes closed. "Aw, don't die, i'd miss you terribly."

Mortimer could still hear the damn bird sqwaking at them. Opening one of his eyes, he'd give her an annoyed look but immediately softened his glare when she kept giggling at him. "This is the last time I let you talk me into helping another beast."

Brushing her hands away, he tries sitting up whilst holding his head.

"But..." Luna tilts her head. "This won't be the last time . . ." Pouting her lips, she huffs. "because you're my friend."

Mortimer took a deep breath as gives in. "You don't need to rub it in, Lovegood."

With that, she starts to laugh, veering her eyes to the side as Mortimer sits on the ground, removing the twigs stuck between his hair. "Thank you." Swiftly pulling him into a hug, she beams. "The mother thanks you as well. She just needs a break - to calm herself a bit."

He soon starts to get up, holding his arm in the process. "I think we could all use a break from each other. I don't want her anywhere near me - might poke out my eyes right out of their sockets!"

Giggling, she briefly scans the ground and gazes up at the much taller boy. "She wouldn't, silly."

He had to shake his head at her simplistic view. "I won't give her a chance to - Let's go... I might have to see Pomfrey for my arm." A small hiss escapes as he starts poking at it.

"I've got your wand here - We can walk together to the hospital wing." She presents him with the dark wooden stick he's known to carry. At which point, takes it from his hand to rest in his pocket.

As they walked back, they could hear the sharp cries of the mother, drifting into a distant void. Which usually meant that a thunderstorm will be pooling over them in just a couple of hours.

From there, Mortimer and Luna would casually go on about their stroll, getting away from the misty part of the forest. When the air became clearer, Mortimer sighed in relief.

Their troubles being swept to the side, Luna would often smile at him, glancing away before repeating the same gesture and walking in a hopping manner.

Luna continues to do so as they pace across the small stream. Mortimer had to ask. "Why are you smiling?"

She appeared to be happy to have been caught as her smile spread from cheek to cheek. "I smile when I'm happy."

"What's gotten you so happy?"

Still springing from all the excitement. "You." She said simply.

Gazing down at Luna, her smile had no effect against his own frown. "How so?" He questions while trying not to let her words confuse him more than it already has.

Luna was looking up at the grey sky as they continued to walk the forest pathway. "You helped them - The Augurey. You didn't need to... But you did," She had such a soft voice she spoke to him. "and that makes me very happy."

The was a long-delayed pause before Mortimer answered her. Mortimer wasn't watching her as he spoke. His eyes were jumping from tree to tree, to distract himself from her smile. "I know how much they mean to you."

"You do, don't you?" She said, her eyes shimmering through the small ray of light. "I hear them say it all the time." Shyly lowering her eyes. "That I'm loony..." She bobs her head. "I like that you don't mind and you're always willing to help even though I know you'd rather not."

While she talks, Mortimer felt sort of guilty since part of it was true. He'd rather be somewhere else, though, Luna was his friend and as such he always believed it was his rightful task to be there in moments like these; he just didn't think he'd break his arm for it. "And that makes you happy?"

"Happy to have a friend like you." Flashing a warm smile at him, Mortimer doesn't resist and instead returns the heart warm gesture.

They proceed forward, neither said much going back to the castle. The small wind blowing up against them, they shortly make it to the entrance hall where others were beginning to make way for as well. The door remained open for a while and as they entered, the two shared a small glance.

Mortimer frowns. This was usually the part where they had to act as though they were strangers.

"Don't fret, Mortimer." Padding him on the shoulder. "I'm sure Draco will understand one day. Maybe then, we wouldn't have to pretend."

"One day... Until then, hide - Got it."

"We're not. We are simply shrouding ourselves to avoid conflict."

"So... hiding?"

Luna giggles. "I'd walk you to the hospital wing - It's best if you go on your own. They're watching and I fear if I spend too much time here, they'll start creating stories." She starts to whisper before glancing over her shoulder and just like she said, there was a couple of on lookers staring at them with such bizarre expression that quickly told them what they were doing was somehow wrong.

Nodding his head, he understood. With reluctance, he sighed heavily, it was annoying how the students here got their entertainment by intruding in other's business. They'd easily spread rumors and then he'd be in a heep of trouble with Draco. He wouldn't be surprised if Draco was standing right behind him at this very moment, breathing down as he looks at him with disappointment.

Quickly staring back, Mortimer was relieved when he found no one there. His imagination was getting the better of him, "I'll be going now." he decides to leave before his fears come true.

Walking away from Lovegood, he shifted himself towards the route of the hospital wing. With his still aching arm, he climbed the first step of the grand staircase and then entered the hospital corridor. It wasn't long before he arrived at the hall where he passed by portraits of pilgrims who tried to chop down an old, bulky tree but failed because the axe they were using was dull and rusty.

"Madam Pomfrey?" Mortimer opens the door and calls for the matriarch. "Madam Pomfrey?" He repeats and enters inside, gazing around the room while holding his arm. "I might've broken my arm..." Biting his cheek as he comes up with a believable narrative. "climbing a tree. . ." Yeah, she'll believe that he thought confidently.

Pacing further down the row of medical beds - all of which were unoccupied - he searches for Pomfrey.

He was left scratching his head as he stands in the middle of the room.

Glancing near the drawer of various draughts, he thought of simply taking a healing potion, surely it was the cure. The injury wasn't too serious, and this appeared to do the trick.

Reaching and gently opening the cabinet door, he could hear a click from the back. Thinking it was Pomfrey returning to the hospital wing, Mortimer doesn't turn his head and instead says out loud. "Don't mind me, Madam Pomfrey, I'm just going to get a healing potion for my arm." Pushing a few vials to the side. "I'll leave soon."

"We don't want you to leave, Black, not yet."

The indistinct deep voice of an unknown person had Mortimer stopping in his track. He turns his head to see who was in the room.

They were older students—three of them. Two boys and a tall blonde. They weren't wearing their uniforms, so houses couldn't be pinpointed. From the way they approached him with their adversarial manners, Mortimer guessed Gryffindor. None of it mattered now. They were looking for him and appeared angry. That was enough for Mortimer to quietly take his own wand out.

Doing his best to ignore their threatening stares, he asks. "Can I help you guys with anything?"

From the right side a boy with short sandy hair spoke up. "You can tell us what you did to Adam."

Adam?

"I'm not sure I understand..." He'd mutter. "Who?"

"You know exactly who!" The girl said from behind the shield of boys. "You did something to him, admit it."

"He's different. It hasn't been the same..." Their friend couldn't seem to finish.

Following the day, they had all decided to jump him inside the boat house. Mortimer was upset and very annoyed that he just had to do something about it. He couldn't very well let this go, someone needed to pay, it was unfortunate that it had to him..

He taught Pickering a thing or two on humility. He was sure the lesson had drilled deep in his skull as in the subsequent weeks after, Adam, remained far distant. The sight of Mortimer practically made Adam run right out of the area, even when his friends were present.

Where did that bravery go?

The coward.

Mortimer tried not to let his amusement show. "I'm sorry but I don't know what you're talking about. I'm here to see Madam Pomfrey, I fear I might've fractured it." Pointing towards a slightly limping arm, he tells them.

This was their only chance to walk away. If they were smart, they would've taken it.

But then Mortimer realizes he was talking to a bunch of gryffindors, a house not known to use their heads and instead run into the fire, not knowing they were about to get burned.

"Good." The second boy said, wearing a plain grey hoodie, he gives him a devilish grin. "It makes things easier for us."

At the end, the three of them proceed to take out their wands.

"If you won't tell us," The other boy growls out as he warns Mortimer, emphasizing his threat by using his wand. "we'll beat it out you." Chuckling to himself for a second. "Besides, it's not like anyone will care. You're a slytherin - Worst of all - A Black."

His two other friends nodded, letting out taunting noises to provoke him.

But react - he did not. What was most interesting about it all, he hardly moved and blinked only once. Their actions seemed rather unrehearsed, rushed even. The way their hands slightly hesitated to reach their wands; it wasn't until one of them decides to point it at him that they soon follow. Their stance was sloppy, there was no coordination, their feet were not well grounded at all, and their eyes constantly shifted between each other, like they weren't sure who was in charge. The more he thought about it, the more signs he could spot.

There was no plan. They just happened to find him wandering the halls, alone - Without an adult, without any witnesses, without evidence. They could hurt him, and no one will know about it.

It was perfect.

The only other person who knows about his whereabouts was Luna, but who'd believe her?

The revelation had him jumping.

For the longest time, they all watched as Mortimer stands in front of the tall cupboard. It was just the four of them, alone in the hospital wing, a faint giggle leaves his lips.

They took this a personal offense that the boy with light hair angrily shoots his wand at him and yells out a stinging hex.

A spell he was quick to deflect with his own shielding charm. "I don't know what's gotten you so bothered." He said in dull tone, straightening himself as he pulls the mask down, giving them a confused expression. "You're the ones that left him alone. Alone to suffer."

They grit their teeth in anger. At the same time, they were lost in his trance stare, silently beginning to regret their decision.

"He hasn't told you anything, has he?" He asked the question, his hand tingling in adrenaline, feeling as though he'd never have another opportunity like this.

Mortimer somehow was able to remember his name - Adam Pickering. He almost chuckles again but supresses it enough to finish the thought. Who knew the encounter in the forbidden forest would have such impact on the boy. It made him want to burst out in laughter, his friends had no clue. While they went on with their daily lives, pretending they had nothing planned for Mortimer, they were slowly losing their friend. It was funny, Adam, wore a brave face and spoke with fearlessness. Everything that makes up gryffindor - none were present on that day. Mortimer now wonders if Adam had any nightmares. If he did, was he in them? Did Pickering see his face in his dreams, or was it the eight-eyed, thick-haired beast with the sharpest fangs and the deadliest drool one could get on themselves.

There were many questions he wanted to ask. Seeing how livid they were, he didn't believe he'd get any answers. They came here to bully him - Their justification was simply because he was who he was.

The idiots.

All of them.

The girl, feeling a tad bold, steps up to face him. "What do you mean by suffer?" She knits her brows and tightens her hands. "What did you do to our friend? He hasn't spoken to us, hardly ever goes out anymore and you!" Pointing harshly with her wand hand. "are the cause for it, just like that bog of a mother of yours.

"Have you ever thought that maybe it's you that's the problem?"

The boy in grey snarls out. "What are you talking about?"

Mortimer turns his back on them. It wasn't smart, he knows, but the thought had been planted and it worked well enough to keep them from attacking him.

He needed for time. "What did you say his name was again, Adam?" Picking up a phial, he opens it and takes a small whiff, it was a calming draught; not what he needed. "Right..." Placing it back, he continues to look inside the cabinet. "Have you thought that maybe the reason Adam hasn't said anything is because he doesn't trust either of you?"

His words had glued them place and the nameless boy yells as his hand loses control. "What in hell are you going on, Black?"

"Yeah!" The girl's shouts, she proclaims. "He's, our friend!" Trying to save what little face they had.

Their other friend only sends Mortimer a glower expression.

An interesting reaction, Mortimer proceeds to poke at the thought. "Use your brains." He slowly glances back at them and then returns. "Adam was left all alone."

Picking another bottle, he reads it to himself. A replenishing potion, he scoffs and places in back where it was. "You guys should've seen him... He was such a wreck. Begging and crying, he was so loud. . ."

He scrunches his face, remembering how red his face had turned. Casually using his good hand to scratch his chin. "Adam seemed confident minutes ago. He was positive that his friends," Hissing at the last word, goes to say. "would come and find him. No one ever did."

Going for another flask, Mortimer gives it another sniff. "I taught him something important that day. It's unfortunate that our friend - Adam, had to learn it the hard way." Lifting the third phial, he hops on the spot. Finally! A bloody healing potion. Taking a second to observe, he starts to swirl it around in his hand. "He's experienced something that's made him doubt. . . The worst kind of feeling there is... Betrayal."

Drinking the potion in one go, Mortimer enjoys the instant warmth it brought him. His arm no longer ached and instead felt a shock of energy. Shortly, turns to face the three morons. They've gone pale, and for a second, could see guilt in their eyes.

Good. Mortimer would continue to feast on their uncertainty. Neither of them tried to debate it on him, which meant that he was somewhat correct. "You left him in the hands of the enemy - My hands."

"Shut up!" The tawny haired gryffindor reacts in defense. "You're full of shite, I'm not going to listen to this garbage." He lifts his hand to show Mortimer his wand. "Let's curse this death eater already."

"He hates you." Mortimer said softly, gazing between the trio. "All of you." While they prepared themselves, he had begun to silently slip his wand too. "You left your friend to go through a hellish nightmare, alone. He was betrayed by his close mates. Even I, wouldn't have done that."

"It's not our fault!" The other guy with the hoodie attempts to make his own defense. "We couldn't have known where he was! You took him and probably crucio'd him."

Grinning slowly, he shakes his head. "You could've told McGonagall, or any other professor that was around. Then again... that would mean having to tell them the reason why this all happened." Putting his hands behind his back. "How a group of older students followed one single person and planned to hang them up at the clock tower, leaving him in the cold, all night."

The tension was thick in the hospital wing. Mortimer looked to the three, chills running down their spines, it felt colder in room than it did outside.

They start taking a couple of steps back. From their stunned faces, it angered Mortimer to know that Pickering was honest with their plan. "You're surprised? Adam was nice enough let me in on your little prank."

"He-He wouldn't have. . ." The girl didn't sound too sure and even started to lower her arm. "You made him..."

"Point is," Taking three steps toward them. "The reason you couldn't find him is the same reason you didn't tell a professor - Because you're all selfish."

The boy in front swallowed a dry lump, his attempt at hiding his wariness was failing. As for the rest of Adam's so-called pals, Mortimer could see the girl's hand quiver while the other boy grits his teeth, one eye twitching with barely contained rage.

He was the one Mortimer had to look out for, the hotheaded ones were usually the first to attack.

He expected some retort or at least an insult. None of that came about and instead were silent, trapped within their own thoughts, Mortimer had to smile.

A brightly lit expression was all it took for the gang to react.

"Confringo!" The grey sweater wearing boy yells out.

Jerking his body to the side, Mortimer barely avoids the attack. He breathes out in relief when he was unharmed. Glancing over his shoulder, Madam Pomfrey's cabinet however told a different story.

At their mark, his other friends soon began to join him, tossing several jinxes and hexes.

Dodging and shielding himself, Mortimer felt a pang of disappointment. Their wand worked lacked any real effect and their attacking skills was the equivalence fighting a first year, this was an effortless act and he wanted more.

Instead of feeling like his life was in danger, all he could see is a bunch annoying flies, buzzing around him. Lucky for him, he had brought his own bug repellent for the annoying little insects. The fury that came from them felt mindless, there was a lot of internalized frustration that went into releasing that much anger. All of it was useless against his strategic maneuvers, having spent summer practicing his skills certainly showed as he evades another attack.

He doesn't have to move as much. More so, deflect with a shield barrier spell. He starts laughing when one of them tossed him a bat-bogey hex.

Further frustrating them to no end. A Conjunctivitus Curse heads for him, Mortimer flicks it like dust.

"Shoot him!" One of them commands, spit landing on his chin as cheeks flushed scarlet with anger.

"I'm trying!" The girl's nostrils flared as she argues, her irritation increases when she couldn't get a single graze on him. Tossing a harsh hex, the girl felt the need to curse at him. "Go to hell!"

They go back and forth like a game of tennis. The more spells they tossed; he merely swings it back. He was getting the groove of it that he was easily getting bored. He frowns, wondering how far they planned to keep this up. He wanted them to hurry up so that he can return back to Draco.

Their tactic didn't seem to help them in the slightest. He wasn't sure what they wanted, but their heated stares told him their motives weren't kind and so to save them from further embarrassment, Mortimer brushes off another stinging hex.

Mortimer moved with inhumane quickness his heart racing."Petrificus Totalus." He aims at the girl.

She squeals and falls back to the floor "Ella!" Both of the boy's shout and one of them roars out Incendio before yelling. "I'm going to kill you!"

The fire blasting curse did very little to Mortimer as all he does cover himself and counter the attack by using the knockback jinx. His magic was forceful enough to shove the boy back against the wall.

He groans before his body goes limp. Watching in horror, "Evan!" the last one panics out, snapping his head back towards Mortimer and his expressionless face.

No words of threats or an ounce of contempt within his eyes. Shook to the very core, the boy freezes in fear, almost as if he had accepted his fate. The power to do anything gives Mortimer the chance to aim and point.

Although, the spell doesn't escape his lips. It confuses and startles the boy. Before he could muster the courage to speak, Mortimer uses his free hand to thwack! the gyrffindor in the face, knocking him out cold.

"Danny!" The girl in the body-binding curse, screams his name. "You cold-hearted bastard!"

Mortimer's focus never strayed as he paces, the insult was brushed aside. She was the only one that had been left conscious. Ella, as her name turns out to be, let's out a gasp when Mortimer's sharp footsteps clanked against the marble floor.

He was taking his time, studying her expressions, changing every second he gets near. She turned from being a brave lion to a timid little mouse in seconds. The corner of her eyes was watery, and he could see her shaking from the floor. It was enough to let out a small gasp, he was amazed. "Are you going to cry? I haven't done anything to you."

"Do-Don't come any closer. . ." Her tied up body tries to scoot away from the predator stalking her as if she were prey.

"Why?"

She doesn't respond, rather closes her eyes, thinking he'll disappear.

Putting a palm on his chest, he frowns. "You could've seriously hurt me..." He felt cold resentment towards the girl. "But none of you care - You're all the same. . ." Seething with every word. "Disgusting." A tighten grip of his hand. "You're a horrible person - You and your friends."

She flinches back, reacting in horror when he points aggressively down at her.

"You're scared."

A sob soon escapes the further she recoils her body.

He studied the cowering individual below him, his feet stopping mere centimeters. "You won't say anything because deep down you know you deserve this."

"Wh-what are you talking about?" Ella shutters as he gets closer. "I-I don't know. . ."

Mortimer rolls his eyes at her feeble state. There was nothing she could say that would change his mind. "Adam was an idiot. He couldn't take me, did you honestly believe you could."

Towering over Ella, her body goes into a fetal position. "You're no different than Pickering when he was pleading for his life. Screaming as he was being tossed in the air, about to get eaten by a bunch of acromantulas." He snorts faintly before snapping his neck. "A blubbering baby, bawling his sockets out because he didn't get away with it." Shaking his head, Mortimer exhales. "Guess it really doesn't matter, he learned his lesson." His eyes leer down with detestation. "In time, you will too."

Bottomless eyes landed back up on Mortimer as the girl attempts to wince her body back. "Wh-what are you going to do...?"

For a second, the image of Morfin bending down, offering Mortimer a glimpse into his mind. Seeing their deepest, inner thoughts. . .

A long line of Legilimens from both parents, the growing interest to divulge into such magic, it was far too tempting.

Then again, Morfin was a willing person.

It would be dangerous.

Although Ella - This sweet, kind, weak, girl shouldn't be too big of a problem. Given her performance, he'd say Ella would crack very easily. She'd struggle, sure, but would eventually yield.

Her kind were always weak.

His eyes flick to where she laid.

There was an ominous look about him - one that immediately causes her eyes to widen. The chilling answer speared through Ella, causing her heart to stutter and breath to hitch, he leans forward, staring without breaking eye contact. "Hold still and look into my eyes."

---

The hospital wing was quiet as Madam entered. She strode in to the back of the room. Halting right when she notices it was occupied. The head nurse was surprised to find anyone here at this time, a recognizable figure, she walks closer.

"Mr. Black?" Madam Pomfrey enters the recovery room and calls to him. "What are you doing here?" Seeing three new patients, each laying still on the beds, she gasps. "What happened here?"

Glancing over his shoulder, he turns back to the task at hand. "I found this three unconscious, I quickly brought them here."

"They were attacked?" She exclaims with concern.

"It doesn't seem so... You could ask them once they open their eyes.

Grabbing a warm towel, Mortimer calmly places it on top of the gryffindor's - Recalling that his name was Evan - forehead. "You weren't here and I didn't know what else to do." He pauses shortly. "Are you mad?"

The woman approaches him, "Oh! No lad." placing a supporting hand on his shoulder. "You did a good job. I'm sorry I wasn't here, there were matters I needed to discuss with Professor Sprout and Professor Snape. I didn't mean to be away for so long - I should notify the headmaster." Coming toward the beds, her eyes were suddenly filled with worry. "He'd want to know if any students were harmed. They look gravely hurt."

Mortimer paces over to the other boy - He'd later find out his name was Danny. He smiles at his fractured face as he laid motionless. "I don't believe their injuries are serious, and I've picked up a few things from watching you. It wasn't too hard tending to them" Pointing at the body, he comments to the nurse. "Although, this one might have a broken nose."

"Well," She stops before even beginning. Witnessing Mortimer as he adds a warm salve on the bridge of the boy's nose. "Thank you, Mr. Black." Pomfrey replies with a warm smile. "I'll be sure to take a look at it as soon as he wakes up." Walking away, she goes over to her cabinet. Squinting her eyes as she studies her stocks. "Why is my drawer messy? I usually keep it tidy."

"Oh!" Mortimer jumps and approaches Pomfrey. "I sort of panicked and began rummaging through the phials. I can re-organise them for you." He offers with shy smile, appearing innocent for her as she suspected nothing.

"That's quite alright and don't worry, Mr. Black, I'll see to it that your house is rewarded points."

Nodding, Mortimer goes back over to check up on the last patient, Ella. Where she rests, he observes her and notes the deep state of sleep she was in. Despite her lack of physical wounds, Ella's recovery might take longer to heal.

He gently puts a hand on top of her head, he swiftly removes it and turns to face Pomfrey. "Thank you, I'm glad I was able to help."

"While normally I wouldn't let any student run the hospital wing. I have to say, I'm glad it was you, Mr. Black. You've certainly made an impression." She nods in approval, returning to her duties. "Go on, my dear, it is the weekend and I'm sure you have plenty things to do in your spare time. I'll take it from here."

"You're the boss, Madam Pomfrey." Mortimer said in a cheery manner. He starts to head over to the entrance door. "If there's anything I can do, will you let me know? I've grown rather attached to them and feel like it's my responsibility to make sure they're alright."

"Good on you, dear. But that won't be necessary. You've done more than enough. But if it'll make you feel better, I will let you know when they've fully recovered. Maybe than, you can ask them yourself and they can thank you in person." She happily offers to him.

Nodding, Mortimer turns back to the door. "A wonderful idea. I'll be sure to come back."

Madam Pomfrey bobs her head when she dismisses him.

Mortimer can be seen walking right out of the hospital wing, his head high and his eyes elsewhere when he unknowingly smirks his way towards the staircase. His whole body felt surprisingly calm, numb. A shot of euphoria spread over his chest, a softness overwhelming him, and he didn't want the feeling to end. Shouldn't he be worrying? After all, once the three wake up, they will no doubt tell Pomfrey about what happened in the hospital wing and the first thing they'll say is his name.

And yet, Mortimer didn't see that as the case. If anything, the encounter has made them a little bit wiser. Who knows, perhaps, this will bring Adam and his friends closer. Then they wouldn't have a reason to complain and it's all thanks to him.

Climbing up to the third floor, he decides to head to the third level of the library corridor, stopping midway only to lean back against the wall briefly. He closes his eyes, repeating the encounter over again. Taking the time to appreciate their panicked faces and their horrified voices. This kind of behavior wasn't right. Mortimer knows he shouldn't be enjoying any of this, but watching her break, watching her fear him as he shows his unrefined emotions - it was mesmerizing. Hell, the attraction he felt to the danger, the strength in his presence, cold-calculated demeanor, the results were very thrilling to say the least.

His beautiful idiots.

How he cherished them.

"What's there you're smiling about, boy?"

Cut off from his thoughts, his moment of happiness was dissolved. Mortimer straightened his back hurriedly and ran his fingers through his hair, hoping it wasn't too messy. Professor Moody stood at the top of the third floor, his enchanted eye scanning him severely while his normal one was still with focus.

"Nothing, Professor, I was daydreaming that's all." His eyes lifted to Moody who was balancing his slight limp.

"I don't recommend doing it in the middle of these old steps. If someone pushed you back so that your neck got twisted while your spine was fractured in two, you'd be out of luck. There wouldn't be anyone around to see you tumble down." Moody lowered his eye, snarling in a way that exposed his teeth. "Constant vigilance."

Forcing a politeness that wasn't truly his, Mortimer adjusts his clothes, issuing to Moody as he proceeds to climb the rest of the steps. "I'll remember that."

For a second, he thought Moody wouldn't budge as he had yet to move from the side but after a couple seconds, the man relents and watches him leave. "You know, you could get in a lot of trouble for doing something like that, Black."

He didn't immediately react. However, he couldn't deny the shiver that was currently flowing down his spine. "I'm not quite following, Sir."

The material of his magical eye glinting in the rays of the sun swarming the halls as his contraption swirls around. "Don't play dumb, Black. While I would normally have you detained and questioned. I have to admit, it was not short of impressive. You did what you had to do to survive, I can respect that." As Mortimer was getting ready to deny his meaning, Alastor shut him up by raising a scarred hand. "I won't say more, only that I'd be a little more mindful. There are others who are watching, ones you'd never expect. They were the ones who told me to come and stop you."

Someone saw him?

And they told Moody?

He didn't think there was anyone around. He was positive the corridors were empty, not a body in sight could've been there. And yet, here was Moody telling him it wasn't true. Stranger than he could comprehend, Moody didn't appear to be mad. He half-expected the ex-auror to arrest him, scream, do something erratic! However, he reacted in a way Mortimer would have never expected; the man was far composed and too collected that didn't seem quite right.

Curious as to know, Mortimer bluntly asks. "Then how did I get away with it?" Challenging Moody's story, he didn't confirm nor try to reject the idea.

Moody chuckles and starts to head down himself. "Simple. I let you get away with it." Mortimer could hear his staggered steps clunking as he descends. "Enjoy the rest of your day, Black." His voice echoed, leaving Mortimer to stand there and ponder about Moody.

This was definitely weird.

And he wasn't sure what to make of it, what to make of him.

But Moody was right, Mortimer needed to watch himself very carefully. He didn't specify who it was, maybe it was for the best. Mortimer wasn't sure what he'd do if he ever got his hands on the poor soul who decided to meddle where its unwanted.

---

Once he reaches the library, he notes how seemingly crowded it was. Thanks to the many students that were present, including those from other schools, everyone thought it was a good idea to go at the same time.

There were witnesses who would immediately notice him go into the restricted section. It was a tricky and delicate situation, that he becomes frustrated. He walks and scans the area. There were a few students reading to themselves, while others paced down the columns of bookshelves. Small study group scattered in different tables. He notes how there were more girls in here than there were boys. He didn't need to speculate further as he finds Durmstrang's champion, Viktor Krum, being followed by 'fans'.

Brushing the callous girls away, Mortimer continues to forge ahead. He wasn't able to get very far for as soon as he comes across the giant portrait of a poetic writer, jotting down their own thoughts. A second goes by and he hears footsteps coming towards him.

"Mortimer." Harry says. "Did you come to help?" His tone was that of hopefulness.

No.

"Y-Yeah." He replies in short voice, as though he was embarrassed for being caught.

Harry effortlessly smiled over his answer, relieved that he enthusiastically tugs on his sleeve. "I'm glad you changed your mind; Hermione has already picked up a bunch of books. Maybe we'll be able to find something now that we're three."

Following Harry, Mortimer scoffs. "Numbers won't make a difference. But I do agree that the library is your best option."

Climbing down the library's narrow stairs, they go to the first level and go through a pathway that leads them to the very backs of the library. By the time Harry arrives, they were unexpectedly blocked by tall stacks of overly large books.

There were too many, Mortimer couldn't begin to imagine how she was able to get them all down.

When Granger's eyes meet his, Hermione speaks, her voice laden with concern. "What are you doing here, Black?"

"Harry invited me." Picking a random book, he reads the title and rummages through the pages.

She shares a look with Harry to confirm it. With a solid nod by Harry, Hermione bites her lip. "Fine."

The three of them quickly got to work.

For an hour, they hardly spoke to each other. Their eyes were solely glued to the old pages of varied books. Harry would vent out frustrated breaths as he leans back from his seat, to then later gaze up at the ceiling. Granger's focus was never interrupted, though she was constantly chewing on her bottom lip, puckering her forehead to show she too was having difficulty. Mortimer would crack his neck every now and then. The noise he made would get the attention of the two before quietly going back to reading.

Student would brush pass them; a few did a double take as they found the sight of the Slytherin sitting next to the Gryffindor's as implausible.

Most of the books they went over were only ones that cared for such beasts. How to properly trim their large nails, what kind of brush you should use when grooming a Ukrainian Ironbelly and the 'proper' way to feed a baby Hebridean Black.

Another half-hour passes, it was there that Hermione decides to speak up. "Any luck, Harry?"

Dissatisfied with his findings, Harry couldn't speak and instead shook his head.

"Mortimer?" She questions, it was the first time she had said his name, without acid in her mouth.

Rubbing the side of his temple, he reads out. "To avoid your gold from being devoured by dragons, the best solution is to pour vinegar. For Dragons have very little tolerance for sour flavors such as lemons, pickles, gooseberries and salted plums."

Hermione huffs and begins to roll her eyes.

Harry's restlessness was beginning to show itself when he nearly smacks his book away. "This isn't working. At this point I might as well walk inside its mouth."

"It's alright, Harry." Hermione quickly searches around the desk. "I'm sure one of these authors can provide something useful..." Grabbing the farthest book on her side, she grabs it and flips through every page. "Oh! Look!" Showing it to Harry. "Maybe you can use switching spells?" Realizing how silly that sounded, she retreats back. "But then, what good will that do?"

Scratching the top of her head, Granger rambles to herself as she puckers her lip. "Unless you decide to swap its fangs for gums - It'd certainly be a lot less dangerous. But you'd still have to get through its dragon hide... Transfigure? No, that won't do. You haven't got any hope with something as gigantic as that. A spell to make you powerful? No - That's far too advance for someone like you and we haven't done any self-casting spells in class. The reason I do know is because I've been practicing O.W.L papers, a tad challenging, but far too difficult for you -"

"Hermione." Mortimer could see Harry gritting his teeth as he clenches the edges of the table. "Do you mind shutting up for me? I can't concentrate."

Seeing how upset Harry was, Hermione swiftly closes her mouth. When her cheeks turn pink, she a book to cover her face.

Whilst hopelessly staring out, Mortimer gently closes the text he was reading about. "What did they tell you about the first task, Bagman and the Crouch fellow?"

Going through his memory, he winces slightly, it was a horrible day he'd like to forget. "Not much, just that the first task will test our daring. Courage in the face of the unknown..." He whispers. "Dragons as it turns out."

"Mmhmm." Mortimer nods and sits back. He folds his hands together, placing them on top of the table and ponders. "Dragons are resistant to such magics, right?"

Harry shakes his head.

"Then attacking them would do you no good. So why not use your magic onto better things, like using the environment around you. Manipulate it to better suite you."

Lowering her book, Hermione asks. "What are you suggesting that Harry throws a big boulder at it?"

"Not necessarily." He grins at the picture. "You could be using Transfiguration to trick it, or Charms to make you go faster - Heck, you could use Venomous Tentacula to stun the dragon, you don't have to fight back. You only need to survive long enough to pass by."

"That's all nice and grand..." Granger sighed and turns a page. "But Harry's skills aren't up to par with the rest of the champions."

"Hermione!" Harry's nostrils flared as he jumps from his seat. In response, his friend makes a small squealing sound, shielding her face again.

Mortimer raises an eyebrow in amusement. "What are your strengths?" He starts questioning.

Trying to calm himself, Harry exhales and runs his fingers through his thick dark hair. "I haven't gotten any."

Snorting out, the image of the golden boy was starting to tear and soon, Mortimer was beginning to realize that this boy was an absolute hack. If only Draco could see, he was sure his cousin would be having a great a time. "Use that brain of yours, Potter. You can't honestly believe that, otherwise, Diggory and the rest will get the better of you. Let's also not forget about the person who placed your name to begin with. There's a lot at stake and you can't afford to play dumb so stop your nagging and think."

"Doesn't that seem a bit harsh?" Hermione interjected; her voice conveyed annoyance at his words.

He wasn't one to disagree. Regardless, defended his point. "Probably. I only want Harry to realize how serious this is. Wizards have died over it. Forget the champion's and everything that comes with it. You need to keep in mind that the reason you're in the tournament," Glancing over to Potter's still body, he goes on. "is because someone wants you dead. You have to admit it, Granger, Harry has to step up if he's ever going to survive."

Sharp daggers at the slytherin, Hermione made it seem as she was getting ready to debate. Maybe because she somewhat agreed or simply didn't want the make the situation worse, Nonetheless, she muttered not a single word and glared away. But it did get Potter to go quiet and question himself.

A second passes, Harry tightens his lips, annoyed, staring out the window of the library's balcony. The sky growing colder, he watches the sun slowly disappear behind a wave of heavy clouds. "I'm good at quidditch..." He finally replies. Yet, his tone was timid because of how useless it sounded.

In reality, his answer was a stepping stone towards a great idea. "Alright so you're good at quidditch. We can work with that..."

In contrast, Harry was beyond skeptical as even he himself couldn't believe it. Ignoring their stares, Mortimer ponders. "It means you're a really good flier - The fastest seeker - blah, blah, blah -" He stops when he notices Harry giving him a sour look. "It's a good thing. Fast, you could use it to your advantage. Out fly the dragon."

He still wasn't quite following. "We're not allowed to bring brooms."

"Who says you need to bring one? You're a wizard, are you not?"

Hermione's eyes suddenly widen when she gasps and sits upright, nearly knocking down her chair. "A summoning charm!"

A moment of eureka! They room became hopeful with the sudden idea. The urge to smile quickly came and spread across all three of their faces. Harry, who was once doubtful and full of hamper, now erupts whole-heartedly by retrieving his wand and nodding his head. Determination and a newfound hope for Potter and Granger, Mortimer was all too happy to see them go.

They offered him to join them, but Mortimer had declined. For obvious reasons, the idea of spending his Sunday teaching Potter a first-year spell didn't bode well with him, he was beyond that kind of help.

If anything, he should be teaching far better, powerful, spells. The kind that aren't taught in school, the forbidden ones are often the most fun. With so many prying eyes, it wouldn't be possible. That and of course, word getting to his cousin that he was spotted being chummy with two of the most hated gryffindors; he couldn't imagine how Draco would react.

Speaking of which, he should probably go and find him. Mortimer sort of snuck his way out of the slytherin common room without being noticed. He was sure Draco was losing his mind. While they haven't talked about the previous night, he knew it still plagued Draco's thoughts, increasingly worrying him.

Leaving the Library, Mortimer would end up journeying the corridors. It was pretty early, and the other schools were progressively adjusting to the castle. A couple of Beauxbatons students were walking along his path, speaking in their own language, they don't acknowledge or really seemed to care and merely continued their stroll.

It wasn't just the children running but also the very rowdy ghosts. Peeves in particular was sprinkling random plants seeds and throwing them against the angry portraits.

Rolling his own eyes, he goes the other way to avoid crossing the poltergeist path.

Nearing the corner, he finds Draco and Theo alongside an empty classroom, wearing thick dark colored sweatshirts, they spoke plainly. "Hey guys!" Mortimer sprints right towards to him.

Seeing Mortimer, Draco instantly approaches. "Where have you been?"

"Yeah, you completely disappeared on us." Theo arches his neck when he questions.

"Oh, I went to go to the library." Mortimer explains. "I had to finish Professor Flitwick's assignment." He had done it days before, but they didn't need to know that. Either way, the lie worked in his favor as their suspicious eyes soften.

Draco nods, shoving his hands inside his pocket. "Alright then." He responds after he finds not a twitch in Mortimer's face. "Just. . ." His tone shifts stiffly. "Just don't go sneaking off again, please." Imploring Mortimer, his cousin responds with a nod.

Taking away their focus, "We were heading to the seventh floor." Theo says.

"What's up there?" Mortimer asks.

Draco was the first to respond. "Privacy. Hardly anyone is up there, especially on the weekends. Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

Draco holding his wand out for Mortimer to see, their eyes gleamed when they made contact.

Soon, Mortimer catches on and a smirk begins to take form. "Winner has to wear gryffindor colors to the first task."

"You're so on!" Theo said excitedly.

The three slytherin boys would run up to the grand staircase and move their bodies to the seventh floor. With their wands in their hands, they were eager to see their skills on the floor. They raced up the stairs and laugh their way, not caring whether they looked like a bunch of goofballs, this the kind of thing he needed. A way to let out his frustration, Draco and Theo happily obliges him.

It felt good for each of them. With the tournament going on and the other schools showing up to the castle, Mortimer admits that things have been put to a hold. It's been a big distraction; they've neglected their secret pact in the process.

For the next few hours, until dinner was served, the boys had spent their time tossing and practicing spells, cooped up in a dusty abandoned classroom. Theo, having the better defense, wasn't easily taken down. Mortimer casted the strongest spells that it took an extreme amount of effort to counter. Draco was swift in drawing his wand, they were often disarmed within a few minutes of dueling.

Each having their own strengths, they flowed together quite well. Mortimer had almost forgot how fun it was, to let lose every once and while. He was at least able to forget and let all the tension slip away from his body. Through each attack, the three would start learning from each other, it made things more interesting when one could predict the other person's next move.

Towards the end, Malfoy reined victor. The loser being Mortimer, his wand flicked from his very hands with a Expelliarmus spell casted by his own cousin. He guesses this means he'll be wearing the famous gold, red, colors. Yet, this would most likely make Potter believe him more and maybe then, he'll divulge that memory over to him. Mortimer hasn't given up on it, Harry's so-called dream may be the only insight he'll have on his father.

Once their fun had ended, they ultimately go downstairs and to the great hall. When dinner was served and all the other students had arrived, the three were being cautiously stared, seeing the faint bruises and minor cuts, they appeared as though they've come out of a long battle. Mortimer blames time. Regardless, their bright, chipper moods were undisturbed, however currently, they were looking more like psychos than normal beings. They ate heavily, their prolonged duel building an appetite made the heads of their slytherin mates turn. Nearly frightening the girls when they stopped eating to look at them, which Mortimer would instantly stare back, causing them to flinch back.

"Mortimer stop it, you're scaring the girls." Theo would grin, afraid to admit it was funny.

Draco also decides to add by saying. "Yeah - And you look insane."

Mortimer in response, snorts and rolls his eyes. "Says the guy with a black eye." he mutters.

"And that's why we have to hurry up and get to the common room." Theo, reaching for his spoon to use. "I made sure to bring a salve and a few extra ingredients - In case I need to make a quick healing potion." Opening his mouth, Nott sticks his finger. "Guys, I might've lost a tooth."

Not caring about his missing teeth, Dracon slaps Mortimer on the shoulder causing him to drop his spoon. "And stop staring at the Professors!" He coolly hisses. "They're going to notice our faces and then we're really done for."

Grabbing a soft bread, Mortimer smiled, showing them that he too was missing teeth.

---

In the course of the next day, Mortimer and Hermione would do their best to help Harry prepare for the first task. They opted to skip lunch and decided to meet at an empty classroom. The same one Mortimer used with Theo and Draco.

Starting out small, they would get Harry to summon the little things like buttons, pebbles and any hand sized objects. Mortimer also thought it was best for him to learn to do it from far distances. It was tough on Potter as he was easily ruffled, frustrated by the lack of progress he was making.

It was there that Granger had asked Mortimer to demonstrate by holding out a rock. "Accio!" He calls out.

The rock instantly leaves her hand and runs straights into his palms. "You make it look easy!" Harry comment echoes.

"It is!" Hermione counters from several feet. "You need to concentrate, Harry."

"You think I don't know that!" Harry back, tightening the grip on his wand. "Every time I close my eyes, I keep seeing a great big dragon..."

"Then imagine wiping off the nose of Professor Snape's face." Jeered Mortimer when Hermione summons the rock back.

"That. . ." Harry began but momentarily pauses. "actually helps." He chuckles, the image imprinted itself in his mind.

Harry takes a deep breath, pointing carefully and moments later shouts Accio.

The palm-sized rock lifts from Granger's hand. It came to him, but at a slow pace. However, it was enough to improve Harry's sour mood, he was making progress.

While it seemed minor, it was an overall success. Mortimer pats Harry on the back, Hermione cheering for him. "Harry, you did it!"

He's spirit seemed to have lifted. "Yeah, I must be getting the hang of it." Smiling at the rock he was holding, Harry signals Hermione to do it again.

After a couple of more tries, they start changing objects, getting increasingly bigger. For a while, the grin stays in Harry's face. Switching to hard covered books, the bell suddenly rings.

"Oh, shoot! I got Arithmancy!" Hermione panics out, she instantly goes to collect her class items.

Harry appeared reluctant to move. "Can't you skip for today?"

"Harry, you're only saying that because you have Divination." Hermione responds. "It's not going to work!"

"Mortimer? What about you?"

"I have Herbology." Mortimer sighed, following Hermione's example, he organizes his belongings.

Realizing they weren't going to stay, there was nothing left for him to do besides go to class. "Fine. But we'll meet back here after dinner. I need to get a grip on this spell - No matter how long it takes."

Hermione nods. "Sure thing, Harry. I'll be here."

"Mortimer?"

Ruffling the back of his head, Mortimer says. "I'm not sure my presence is needed anymore."

Titling her head, Hermione asks. "Why do you say that?"

It was weird. Granger seemed as though she actually wanted him there. Harry shared her expression as well when he adds. "Wasn't it your idea?"

"Technically, it was team effort." Mortimer contested nervously. "I'm sure you guys have everything covered."

While he tolerated them enough and they weren't entirely a huge pain in his rear, he tells himself not to get attached. It comes as a surprise that they still wanted him around. He was sure by now, Weasley would try to force himself back into the group. When he didn't, the friendship between the once golden trio became strain.

Sneaking out at night wouldn't be a problem. Yet, after the whole sleepwalk incident, he didn't believe it wise. The was an excess amount of uncertainty that brought him weariness. He was almost afraid to go to bed for fear of not being able to wake up. The first time was bad enough. But a second? Mortimer was just lucky that Draco had caught him before he could do something incredibly stupid.

It was best not to think about it in front of Harry. The stare alone, Potter could probably sense there was a weight in his head. "You've helped us this far. Why not see where it goes."

"It's only fair." Hermione agreed, nodding her bushy round head.

"I'm a slytherin." Mortimer brings up. "We're supposed to hate each other."

But Hermione scoffs and rolls her eyes while Harry smirked. "Stranger things have happened and you did say you'd just about do anything to keep me alive."

A slow grin spreads and Mortimer nods a second later. "Alright."

Shaking hands, Harry and Mortimer leaves the classroom. The three ended up separating at the staircase. No one seemed suspicious, nor did it seemed like they cared. Regardless, Mortimer ended up going towards the first floor and right out the overly effloresce plants that were currently being cultivated by Professor Sprout.

Making sure he didn't trip on any of the vines sprawling over the stoned floor, he follows the gathering of students as they head inside greenhouse three. He was prematurely prepared as he already had his gardening tools with him, along with his gloves.

This was usually the calmer classes, many found it relaxing - when they weren't dealing with poisonous plants like cowbane or extracting foul fluids like the stinksap. While some struggled with the subject. They barely keep their projects alive for more than a few weeks.

The students settled once they reached their tables. Mortimer shared his with a girl in ravenclaw. He never really bothered to learn her name. Most of the assignments didn't require any partners, it was used often to save space, rather than having to help each other. Setting aside the fact, he was constantly googled, he made no effort to get to truly know anyone.

Professor Sprout emerges from the left side of the stairs, holding a silver watering can. "Alright children, we'll continue to work on our Flutterby Bushes. I've noticed some of you have let them wizen over time - Poor things - To avoid their untimely death I suggest you spend the time carefully saturating them and trimming any decay."

Going down the remaining steps, Sprout rests her empty can on the floor before padding her apron, dust and crumbs of dirt bounced and rolled off. She quickly glances over her class, studying as her students grabbed and begin to work of their quivering bushes.

"Mr. Black, wonderful work with your Flutterby, and the smell! Very lovely." Taking hold of one of the stems, she takes a small whiff. "A nice color indeed. I recommend pruning a few of the edges. On another note - if you're interested - you can use the trims! It makes for a good fragrance, for that special someone."

Mortimer's eyes widen, afraid to look anywhere else.

However, he didn't need to as he can hear the girls slowly start to giggle.

And Mortimer begins to shrivel.

"Back to work everyone. I'm done teasing."

Humiliation set aside, Mortimer pauses, recovering his flush face. Another second passes before putting on his gloves where begins to cut and set each stem to the side. After he was done, he lightly drizzles them with cool water. They shake briefly, coming across as some sort of happy dance when he picks up the pot and places it where the sun hits best.

To be on the safe side, he adds a heating a charm as to protect them from dying of cold. For the rest of the period, he'd assist Professor Sprout cutting down Leaping Toadstools from the pile of logs she had collected in the morning. Chasing a few around the classroom, he would leap out like a hunter and rapidly slice through the sentient mushroom.

As they drew near the end of class, he would check on the Flutterby bush. They appeared more like butterflies than plant, batting and flapping its wing like stems. They were vibrantly glowing, once could easily admire its natural grace.

Class eventually ends and everyone else breathes out in relief to have ended the day. Mortimer had his hands full with assignments.

Throughout the entire day, he'd go on as normal. He'd later catch up with Theo and Draco, heading to the library. Writing and completing their essays, they'd go to the common room and kill time until dinner was announced.

Eating until he got full, he shares looks with Harry every now and then. Their eyes connecting as they both acknowledge the agreement.

Mortimer would meet up with Harry and Hermione up to the seventh floor. It wasn't easy getting out as Draco kept a watch at him. He wanted to be there in case Mortimer starts walking again. It was only after an hour that Draco's eyes slowly closed, even he couldn't fight the sands of sleep that were sprinkling over his head.

Once Mortimer knew he was out cold, he quickly tossed on his sweater and headed out of the slytherin common room. He manages to avoid Filch and Mrs. Norris as they scouted the halls for any scoundrels. Mortimer walks pass the sleeping portraits and tiptoes through the armored guards, he made sure to make few noises as even the hunched gargoyles snored in their sleep.

Meanwhile, Harry and Hermione had begun to practice, trying to perfect the summoning charm until Mortimer arrives. When he did, the three wouldn't stop until Harry had the spell drilled in his head. There was determination behind those specs of his and knowing he'd need to use it against a dragon, made him want to concentrate more. They start by holding out small objects for him to call out. The size of each object grew whenever Harry successfully caught on. Shortly then, they would distance themselves from Harry to practice at certain ranges.

Mortimer wasn't sure how much time pass when Harry had finally gotten the hang of it.

Their endeavors were not wasted, and Harry was very confident. Strutting right inside the classroom, his chin was high despite his eyes getting heavy. He pulls his arms and massages his wand hand.

Both Hermione and Mortimer held a glimmering look of admiration. "Do you believe he has a chance?" Her voice wavered.

As Harry stretches his back, Mortimer responds in a dry voice. "Yeah." There was a small smile forming in the corner of his mouth. "Assuming he doesn't lose it, I'm sure he'll be able to keep up with the others. He's safety is what matters the most."

Hermione pauses. "Really?"

Mortimer merely says yes.

Although Mortimer was facing Harry, he could tell the bushy haired girl was ransacking her thoughts, he could practically hear it from where he was standing. "Don't overthink it, Granger. I still don't like either of you."

She huffs while shaking her head, her nose wrinkles at his words. "Why do you have to be a prat! I thought we'd at least be on civil terms, for Harry's sake."

"What do you call this?" Mortimer defends, motioning with his arms. "I've been focusing my attention on Harry. He needed help and I've done that." He spares her a quick glance. "Let's be honest, why would I want to be friends with either one you? You've treated me unfairly; treated me like I was Malfoy - One of them."

"You've certainly left a lasting impression." Hermione frowns, her voice was low but spiteful. "You've done awful things - To Sirius!" She didn't want to finish the sentence. "I don't understand you. You can be very kind at times - Ginny seems to believe so - Then, you abruptly go cold - It's not normal."

Holding his tongue, he refuses to react to her words. Was Mortimer a bad person for wanting to snap at her? Maybe he was being too sensitive. Though, after a while, he grows tired of hearing it. It was always the same thing, constantly reminded of how horrible of a person he was. Their treatment seemingly grew worse and Granger was one and the same as the rest.

He looked down on her, she was doing her best to keep contact, knowing that she wanted to glance somewhere else. "Do I frighten you?"

Hermione didn't instantly respond, but rather looked at her friend. Harry was currently rubbing his wrist; he wasn't looking at either of them but was distracted. "I-I..." Her voice almost cracks. "N-No. . ."

Mortimer could hear her lies, which he found slightly funny. "Harry wants us to get along - I want us to get along... I'm willing to forget last year's insult."

"Insult?" She repeats, her tone carrying acid. "What insult."

"You called me a death eater." Mortimer reminds her whilst she tenses.

"I. . ." She ends it before beginning. Her hands balled into a fist. "Forget? Just like that?" Her voice was doubtful towards a boy she thought wouldn't forgive so easily.

"Yes." He specified further by adding. "Not just for Harry, but for Ginny too. From what I hear, you two get along quite well. I'd hate for her to think she has to choose." He exhales and gives her a tired smile. "I can get pass everything, if you'd simple let that silly pride of yours go. What do you say? Let bygones be bygones, Hermione."

Hermione blinked, a sharp breath stinging as becomes tense, she asks. "Why are you helping him?"

He thought about it for a moment and replies. "You could say I felt bad for him. You've seen how they treated him. He's isolated himself because he doesn't trust anyone, not even his friends." He ignored her scowl. "I can't imagine how much that stings. To know the person you called a friend, thinks you're nothing but an untrustworthy fame seeking liar."

He thought Hermione might start to shout. A grunting noise was instead heard, locking her emotions. "He has friends, he has me and Ron..."

For a second, he thought he might burst in laughter but was surprised when didn't. "Where is he now?" He asks coolly. "Not here, not where he's supposed to be, at least. Instead, he's invited a slyhterin, something that almost never happens these days. . . Harry might not believe Ron, but he's certainly changed his mind about me."

She shook her head, refusing to believe. Glaring right right up at him, she huffs. "You've fed him lies."

"No." He counters. "I was truthful. I told him what I thought and listened to everything he was worried about. I didn't judge him or call him a liar. Not like Weasley has done. No one believed him. But I did and that's why I'm here and he isn't. You're only upset because you've been made a fool. You resent me for proving you wrong."

Hermione couldn't find her voice. However, growls pushing past Mortimer and through the door, leading to the hall. She didn't even say goodbye to Harry, alternatively stomping her way out.

"Hermione?" Harry calls but is ignored by the sound of a shutting door. "What happened." He asked, turning over to Mortimer.

In response, he answers plainly. "She's upset."

"About what?"

"She doesn't enjoy the idea of us working together."

Harry swallowed, his gaze darting at him. "I-I didn't believe she would mind."

"She tolerates me, let's put it that way. Will we ever be friends? Probably not. But I think my words are finally getting to her."

"And that is?"

Mortimer's jaw tensed for a moment, returning to his emotionless state. "They need to be better people, better friends to you." He bluntly said. "You at least deserve that considering everything that's happened to you."

"I-I..." He stops and is taken aback. "Are you always this forward?"

"I don't know." He says honestly.

Mortimer could see he was getting uncomfortable by the way Harry was fiddling with his hands. He changes the topic to avoid it get any weirder. "It's getting late and you're going to need your beauty sleep if you're going win. Good luck, I'll be rooting for you."

A nervous smile graces Mortimer before he fell back in an anxious mess, asking with skepticism. "You will? Malfoy will surely blow a fuse - Not to forget, the entire slytherin house."

Chuckling, he pushes his hair back. "It'll be even funnier."

Laughing along, Harry shortly rubs the back of his head, his eyes moving downward as he contemplates. "Any final thoughts? I-I have the spell down, but what about the dragon? I... I'm not sure if..." He stopped in his tracks. Mortimer could see a tremor rattling his body in fear.

For a brief moment, Mortimer thought about what he could say. The only advise he had was to simply not die, it was a logical thing to say, considering the probabilities of Potter succeeding in outflying a dragon.

Reluctant to crush Potter's spirit, Mortimer gave him a smile, forcing himself to say. "Don't see it as the tournament. Think of it as a qudditch match." He could see Harry's eyes flickering back towards him. "Your target, the golden snitch and the dragon can be a buldger - A really big buldger."

Harry seemed to have caught on, it was somehow strange but familiar to him that he only nods.

They talk for a few minutes and in that time, he could see Harry loosen up a bit. From being stiff as a board to a wobbly noodle as he leans back, decompressing his once tight chest.

A timer goes off on their heads when they start hearing noises outside of the empty classroom.

Distracting him long enough, Mortimer decides to leave. They've practiced all night and were expected to attend class in the morning.

With this in mind, Mortimer says one final good luck and heads back downstairs. He was hoping to catch Draco before he wakes.

Fortunately for him, Malfoy was wrapped in a warm thick blanket, his eyes heavily closed. Mortimer could hear his faint snore. A quick glance and he sees Draco's hair sticking out. Tiptoeing back to his own bed, Mortimer quietly undresses and jumps right on to the mattress. The soft cushion was a relief for his body that he sighs, closing his eyes.

"Wake up, Mortimer, it's morning." Draco yawns out, stretching his arms and sniffing in through his nostrils.

When did it become morning? Groaning he hugs the blankets closer and made a noise in protest. Counter to the noise, Draco yanks the blanket, letting it fall on the floor. "They're serving breakfast, let's go."

Mortimer sits up, wiping the drool from the corner of his mouth. "I'm up." He groans, blinking while wearing a dreary frown.

Watching Draco going inside the bathroom, he hears water running down the sink. Mortimer rubs his eyes and puts on his school shirt. Caring very little about appearances, he covers it by wearing his green-silver robe.

"You weren't having any nightmares, were you?"

"No."

"Are you sure? It looks like you've hardly slept." Draco said as he emerges from the door, adjusting his collar. He had combed his hair and washed his face, ready for today.

"I'll be fine." Mortimer answers, rubbing one of his eyes, he yawns and makes way for the bathroom. "Just need a bit of makeup - that's'all" He slurs at the end.

Looking underneath his bed, he starts collecting his textbooks. "Make sure you don't stick your hands inside Blaise's weird powder bag thing - he'll freak out again."

Dismissing Draco with a wave, he closes the door and gets ready for the day.

During the time it took them to head to the common room, everyone else was chatting and running out for breakfast. No one wanted to miss a moment leading up to the first task.

Everything beyond that point was dealt with ease. He ate breakfast with Draco and Theo, both noted nothing unusual from him. They talked and he merely listens, throwing a few words here and there until the bell ranged.

Going into Muggle Studies, Professor Burbage was teaching them about muggle activities, specifically the Olympics. With all this talk about the tournament, the witch wanted to show that wizards and non-magical folks were not so different when it came to competitive sports. But the description of humans - Seeing how far they can throw sticks, tossing heavy balls across pits of sand and running a course that sounded like it was made to train horses, created doubt. Some could hardly see any similarities between species.

After Muggle Studies, lunch was being served. Mortimer didn't dare to look over the gryffindor table. But he did spot a little blonde sitting with the rest of the ravenclaw students; Luna was waving at him.

Drinking out off a glass of water, he waves dully and squints his eyes as he tries looking over Theo's shoulder. Several minutes had passed when Professor McGonagall came down to escort Potter, everyone watching them, Harry's skin goes visibly pale.

"And there he goes." Theo says, eating a chicken bowl. "Think he'll live?"

"Who cares." Said Draco, tossing his napkin to the side.

"I do." Mortimer responds. "He's the reason I get to skip charms today - Don't rain on my parade."

Draco scowls, resting an elbow on top of the table while he uses the other one to grab his glass. "Don't forget you lost."

"Augh. . . Gryffindor colors." Theo wrinkles his nose as if a sudden foul smell surrounded him. "Should've gambled your galleons instead."

Swinging his leg over to the side, Mortimer gets up whilst rolling his eyes. "A bunch of fairies, the lot of you." He mumbles under his breath. "Come on, everyone is starting to leave."

In fact, they were practically running right out of the great hall.

They were shortly being escorted outside of the castle and right into the forest grounds. There was questioning and curious noises among the crowd of students as they went down a constructed pathway.

Lanterns were set up, as the sky was partially dark from the bitter cold November. Bushes that were planted on the ground no longer existed and small trees were cut down to make the trip easier.

"Where's Tracey?" Mortimer asks. He suddenly remembers the lack of his slytherin peers. "Daphne?"

For a second, Theo glances to the side. While he didn't say, his expression became known as he appeared upset. "Daphne thought it was better if they sit somewhere else." He sighed, knitting his brows. It was clear something had happened but have ultimately decided to keep it to themselves. "And Tracey... Well, you know Tracey, she wouldn't leave her friend."

Should he be concerned? Mortimer has noticed a change in Greengrass' behavior since the start of the school year. However, it never weighed his mind since he was often occupied with his own issues. "Is everything alright?"

Theo pauses again, pressing his lips together. "I'm sure they're fine -" It sounds like he was telling that to himself rather than Mortimer. "Tracey is worried so she's been keeping Daphne company."

"Have you tried talking to Greengrass?"

"I have." His forehead puckering in confusion. "But the sight of me. . . She steps away and..." Holding on to his sentence, there was a lot of unsettling emotions. "It's like she's afraid."

Sharing the uneasy feeling weighing on Theo, Mortimer opens his mouth to ask.

"Black!" Two voices called him. Through the wave of people, Fred and George, surfaces in front of him. It was never a good thing when they show up, but Mortimer would be lying if he didn't say he was a little bit relieved.

"George, Fred." Greeting the two, he was enjoyed the distraction. He glozes over Draco's sharp cast whenever Mortimer approaches the twins.

Curiosity struck him when he sees George holding a wooded box with a silver locket. They smile at him; Fred cleared his throat. "Oh, Timmy... If anyone enjoys a good wager, we know it'd be you..."

His head cocked to the side. "I don't follow."

Fortunately, they didn't leave him hanging for too long when George responds. "Us and the other houses have pulled our Galleons, Sickles and Knuts to start our own little game."

"A game of chance." Fred's words were intriguing enough to keep him listening.

Placing a gloved hand onto of the box, Fred continues, the smile working its way. "Throw of the dice - So to speak."

"A pool, Black." George finishes. "We've started a pool for the winning champion."

"What do you say?" Fred asks, withholding a laugh. "Care to toss your galleons?"

Mortimer didn't ponder too much. After a few moments he clapped his hands, staring at the two of them. "Count me in." He chuckles whilst Draco can be heard scoffing in background.

"Perfect!" Fred smiled and started taking out a notepad and broken-down quill. "We'll just add your name and. . ." His tongue sticking out the side, he flicks through each page. It was hard keeping up with all these names.

As Fred jots down on the parchment, George shared his brother's amusing expression. "I assume you'll be picking Krum, right?"

"Actually." Mortimer began. "I'll be picking, Potter."

"What?" Draco exclaims.

Fred stops in the middle of writing whilst George he looks narrows his brows. They share a silent look before they two of them start laughing out loud.

Collecting a few glances, they stop when they realize he was serious. Once they collectes themselves enough, George nods. "A wildcard. I love it."

"It will certainly make things exciting, don't you agree?" Returning to the list, Fred proceeds to add his name.

Shaking his head, George agrees. "Potter it is. Will anyone else like to join in the festivities?" Asking among the crowd.

A couple of students stopped before them, wanting to be part of the excitement. It seems as though the students were now invested as money was invovled. The risk of losing it all brought in rushing feeling.

Theo eventually came to his senses and added his name. However, he chose Krum instead of Diggory; like most people have. Draco was all too proud, scowls at them and starts to move again.

Without saying much, Mortimer's name was collected among the rest of the students. Both Theo and Mortimer were soon able to catch to an annoyed Draco. Shortly resuming as normal, their conversation were nothing but casual, but their tones were that of excitement. After months of waiting, the build up to it was certainly excruciating, and worth it.

After minutes of uninterrupted walking, Mortimer took out his wand. Pointing at his robes, the colors of the fabric change. From green, silver to gold, red, he was instantly being stared at. A few surprised glances, it was as though they've never seen anything like it.

They wondered if the Black boy was truly insane. Grabbing their attention, he plainly ignored their looks; however, Draco cringed from the second-hand embarrassment. Which was odd considering he wasn't the dawning gryffindor colors.

The trip was relatively long. Coming closer, the outline of a rather huge building begins to appear before their very eyes.

A colosseum of sorts had been created. Tall and wide, the place could hold hundreds. Students awed and made noises in disbelief. Some pointed at the structure's exterior, impressed at how it was built in such a short time.

"Ew, Mortimer!" Pansy's voice comes out the air. He glanced behind, she shows herself by pushing students to the side. "Why are you wearing that? Don't tell me you're in support of Potter?"

Her question caught the attention of everyone that was nearby. They too wanted to know what he was thinking and it annoyed Mortimer to know they wouldn't move until he answered.

"Why, yes of course." He answers with a smile.

"Why in Merlin would you?" A slytherin from the back questioned.

"It's funny." He responds. Yet, his humor tone was not present, rather a dark one. "I thought it'd be funny." He looks around the observing crowd. "Anymore questions?"

No one else answered. A second or two passes when they proceeded to walk up. As if it never happened, they brush off Mortimer's appearance.

The only one left standing alone was Pansy, Aware of his serious gaze; she takes a few paces back before turning to her friends. "R-Right!" She nods feverishly. "It's going to be fun! I can't wait!"

Watching her run back to her friends, Draco gave Mortimer a curious look, "Do you really have to do that?"

A pause, he closes his eyes. "Do what?" Snapping his neck, he overlooks their wincing responds.

"You're scaring them."

"Well maybe they should mind their own business. They might not like what they find."

Theo stares away, a kind of awkward tension lining his face. Draco watched Mortimer continuing their walk without them. Finding his answer chilling. Neither didn't need to try very hard to see that Mortimer was being extremely reserved. In a way, it made Draco reflect on the previous night, there was something off, and he didn't enjoy the feeling.

"Are you guys coming?" Mortimer was aware of their eyes studying them, a strange urgency to his posture as though he wanted to say something. Choosing to stay silent, straightens himself and starts to move his feet.

---

There was an immense sound of clapping and cheering out for the games to start, students wearing the colors to support the chosen champions. It was all very mixed between witches and wizards. Many fans were in favor for the young seeker, Viktor Krum. Girls shouting out for Cedric Diggory. Those from the Beauxbatons Academy, were in support of their own. There was an underwhelming amount of concern for Potter - even those from his own house! Some began waving around handkerchiefs in the air as they thought Potter would need them for when he loses.

Regardless, Mortimer wasn't going to let them ruin his fun. Wearing all Gryffindor colors and getting lost in the excitement, he takes his wand and points it in the air. Shooting fireworks above the sky, the horde of people were elated as their eyes widen at the bright colors.

Sitting in the middle row, they were able to get a good view of the obstacle. There large boulders set over the grovel ground, at the far end of the arena was a nest, packed with eggs. Far into the distance, there were several tents set up and many wranglers were standing by, including a few Aurors.

The ecstatic response, many soon follow and shouted louder than before. It was like a large wave coming down when a whistle caught their attention.

"The games are about to begin!" Theo madly hops, putting a hand on Mortimer's shoulder, he starts shaking him back and forth.

Joining in the foolery, he jumps with Theo whilst Draco shakes his head, focusing on the game.

It certainly didn't last long as a huge, chained door were opened to reveal a large silver-blue skinned dragon, shoot out blue fire, the crowd shortly lets out a gasp.

Wondering who was the first to take on this frightening beast. The answer came when minutes go by to reveal the Hufflepuff champion, Cedric Diggory.

From then, it was like the world stood still to watch Diggory and all his glory. His own expression matched with the crowd, there was worry and startling fear as the dragon releases the sharpest of screams.

Ludo Bagman shows himself in front of the shouting crowd. At his mark, Diggory runs straight for the dragon. Many wondering what he'll do. To everyone's surprise, he attempts to transfigure one of the boulders, turning it a dog, a labrador. For a moment, it seemed to do the trick as the Swedish Short-Snout left the comfort of the nest, trying to take a snag out the animal.

With an open opportunity, Diggory sprints right to its nest, swiftly retreating the golden egg.

It was all too exciting, Mortimer wished he had brought popcorn.

Fans hollower and hop in victory as Cedric carried the egg. Protectively holding it as he tries to head back, the pressure only increases. Though, he wasn't completely safe, the now angered dragon began to shoot out fire, noticing the intruder.

A long jet of fire aiming in his direction, the beast screeched and ignored the useless bait and instead went for the hufflepuff. There was a shift in panic when Diggory rolled and stumbled down. With no time to think, he rapidly got to his feet. Clumsily there were moments when he nearly dropped the egg but was quick to hold onto it.

Just as he thought he was in the safe zone, the Dargon had one finally attack. A vast length of blue fire shooting right out of its mouth, the arena was momentarily blinded by the engulfed flames. It suddenly felt hot as the smoke arose, surrounding the environment. But where was Diggory? A tense pause, Cedric appears right behind a cracked, near crumbling boulder. Alive he was, the injures he's suffered were badly seared burns to his skin.

Immediately, the doors to the end right open. The dragon tamers came to stop the dragon from continuing its attack.

The crowd seemed overjoyed but still worried for the hufflepuff. From a certain range you could see staff members pulling Cedric to safety. Once he entered the medic tent, cheers ranged out and everyone began calling his name. An intensity, coming from all aspects of the task had everyone gripping their hands in fear. Yet, the adrenaline of his success made up for it, hooting out in celebration, proving that Diggory was a fan favorite among the school.

Aurors stepping foot inside they assist putting out the remaining fires.

Talk amongst the judge - The judges consisting of the headmasters of each school and Barty Crouch - A score was decided. A loud ring of hoorays spread, Cedric, receiving a score of thirty-eight, surely, no one could beat that. Then again, others have yet to go.

What everyone was really waiting for was Potter. How would the youngest champion preform? They soon get their answer, for now, they will continue to watch the show.

There was a short intermission as they prepared the obstacle for the next challenger.

Bagman shows himself again and announces the second champion.

Fleur Delacour.

When her name was called out, the students clapped, some whistled in support.

Studying the young witch, she was trying to keep a cool head. Moving out with her chin high, calmly walking in the middle of the den.

Standing before the Common Welsh Green dragon, its roar was a tad different than others. It was less intimidating and more hypnotic, almost music-like.

Nonetheless, its expression was livid. A nest that was being threatened, the green scaled dragon, breathes out smoke. Its attempts to scare the witch was unsuccessful, however, there was a second when Fleur had flinched, it was clear that she was just as scared as Diggory was. No one could blame them; the dragon certainly held no qualms of scorching down any enemy that wishes to come close.

On Bagman's mark, Fleur gently takes her wand out.

Everyone waits with curiosity. At some point, everything had gone quiet, no longer did the crowd make any noise, uneasy eyes following her every move. They begin to then murmur amongst themselves in question when Fleur softly swishes her hand in a gentle manner. If you were quiet enough, you could hear her humming a mellow tune.

The audience awes as the dragon's eyes got heavier. It was fighting to sleep but was eventually subdued. Not much when it finally went to sleep.

With caution, she speedwalks - There was still a high chance that the creature could wake up. Hurriedly, she approaches the nest and retrieves her egg. The students much too nervous to notice, she was so close to the dragon, it would only have to open its mouth for it to devour her. Though, she didn't seem as panicked. In the moment, her guard was set aside, she observes the golden prize. A mistake no one would see coming, the dragon snored out a large flame that quickly set a light on Delacour. Squeaking, the end of her skirt was set on fire. She panics and tries to rid the fire by waving it with her hand.

During that time, her peers worried whether she'd burn alive.

Using the water-making spell, sprays of water was used to die down her engulfed skirt. Fleur huffs out before she finally had enough, running back to the tent and carefully, the crew in charge of the beast was brought back.

The judges shared a few glances before putting scores in the air. A thirty-five was announced for the witch and next course was already being prepared.

"I can't believe they're making them go against dragons!" Theo's voice says loudly, he could hardly hear himself talking with all the noises. "What's next? Taming banshees?"

Mortimer shrugs, watching as the next dragon was dragged out. "I'm incline to agree. Buuuut. . . somehow, I doubt the worst has yet to come." A loud screech, everyone turns their heads.

A slightly, red-thinned, dragon stretches it neck up high, screaming and releasing the harshest fires, a face with sharp-scale thorns, giving it a demonic like appearance, making anyone wonder if any of this was legal.

The Chinese Fireball as it was known, its appearance certainly fitted her well.

Viktor Krum was finally announced. There was a special cheer for the young seeker, girls clapping for him, the other half could be seen rolling their eyes and scoffing.

None of that mattered to Krum as their calls were ignored, his eyes focusing on the target alone, waits for the signal.

The whistle is blown and Bulgarian runs straight for the demon. The mother dragon waits for no one as she breathes out a beam of fire. Shifting his body to the side, he manages to avoid the attack. The beast suddenly uses it tail to try and whip him back, but he too avoids getting hit. Out of everyone in the room, his expression remained emotionless, but a glimmer of determination under it was plain to see whenever he retrieves his wand.

An incantation or sorts, his aim wasn't anywhere near its body. Instead, his target was upward where its velvet eyes glared down at him. To their shock, he didn't attempt to transfigure the boulder or try to use charms against the dragon. Rather, running towards it and attack it. Heading right up, he summons the Conjunctivitis Curse.

A nasty curse that swells up the target's eyes. In a matter of seconds, the dragon yells and goes into a panic frenzy. Smacking and crushing everything in its path. It's temporary blindness further enrages the dragon that it was unaware that she had crushed some of her own eggs.

Regardless, Krum completes the task.

There was a pause from everyone as the scores were announced. Applauding for him for his boldness, some were still at a loss. The audience was reeled back when a number was given. With Krum getting the highest score, surely, he'd win.

Afterall, who could beat that? The assembly of students certainly doubted Potter's abilities as already they've begun to show off their Potter Stinks badge.

Before Harry's name was called, Ludo Bagman would take stage and make an announcement, clearing his throat, he says. "After much discussion with our judges, it has been ultimately decided that a reduction of nine points will be taken off Mr. Krum's score."

Hearing the news, a short assortment of boo's and sounds of protests coming from fans and spectators, Ludo raises his hands and continues. "The task was to retrieve the egg - No harm was to be made towards the Dragon. As it comes down, the final score is will remain at a forty."

While some didn't agree, there were others who were still hopeful he'd win. Krum still had the biggest score and there was only one person left.

Much speculation and harrowing amounts of waiting, Harry Potter finally emerges from the tent, the overbearing amount of people watching him, Mortimer wonder how he could muster the courage to even walk. There were so many faces and yet none, they were meshed together, you couldn't find any distinct faces unless you were to get a close up.

None of that mattered, for Harry's attention was stuck on the dragon, the Hungarian Horntail. Like the Chinese Fireball, its appearance was like a giant hellhound guarding the gates that will lead him to the grand prize. A shriek that exposed its sharp tongue, it thrashes its tail and stomps with their scaled feet.

Everything they had practiced prior; it was time to see if his work had really paid off. Harry's eyes never leave the dragon's sights. Using his wand, he yells out with a clear and bold tone. "Accio Firebolt!"

A moment of taut silence, everyone was on the edge of their seats. They start to question whether he even had a plan to begin with. Until finally they vaguely hear a swishing sound that was coming from all different parts the air. Investigating what sounded like a jet coming down. They look around the sky when - Just then - the crowd gasps at the sight of his firebolt hurling in his direction.

Within seconds, Harry can be seen grabbing his broomstick. At an instant, ascending towards the sky.

And then he was off, having caught it with his hands he soars right in the air. As the Horntail attempts to stop him, Harry glances around the enclosure, it appears as though he was searching for something. Not long after, he was spotted diving down, just barely enough to avoid jets of fire that were shooting straight at him. Had he not swirled his body, Potter would of have certainty been made into ash.

Flying up high and in a circle, the dragon follows and sticks its neck out to take a big chunk of him. When she failed, he flies away, quick as he was, he couldn't avoid the sharp tail swinging at him. Everyone soon panics when Harry was hit, causing him to spin out of control. The mother was protective of her eggs, she couldn't be persuaded enough to leave the nest. But with Harry being so close to it, she finally does move away. Harry knows he only has one shot, all he had to do now was wait for the opportunity.

Spinning and confusing the dragon enough, he was quick to dive down and lastly grab the egg. Going mad from the adrenaline, Harry rapidly flies away and plunges right down to the surface. Upon his feet touching the ground, the adults come running right out, guiding Potter to safety and supressing the dragon from attacking any further.

"Hell. . . " Mortimer whistles out. "Can't believe he made it."

"And look!" Theo points at where the judges were sitting. "They're about to give him a score."

Glancing at Potter, he appeared to be stuck in trance that he wasn't paying attention to anyone, staring only into space. He didn't even react when the Bagman announces his score. "Forty!"

"Woah!" Theo let's out an impressed noise. "A forty? Really? Then... that means he's tied for first, against Krum!"

Smirking, Mortimer soon laughs at the sight of Draco's brooding expression. "Someone isn't too happy about it."

"Will you two shutup!" Folding his arms, Draco resembled a pouty little child who didn't get what he wanted. "Potter. . ."

Sliding over to Draco, Mortimer drapes his arm around his shoulder, nearly shoving him out of his seat. "Aw, don't let it get you down, I'm sure your boyfriend will do better next time."

Draco would push Theo back and those in the same row. "Shove it! Both of you!"

Theo and Mortimer laugh, teasing him further as he removes himself from the rest. Disappointment was clear in his expression. It wasn't just him, however. There was also an immense change in opinion as Harry's victory was pronounced for everyone to see. No one had expected him to be successful. They doubted and some believed the golden boy would be no more. Exceeding beyond expectations, they'll start thinking twice before considering Potter to be any less than the champions.

Mortimer was simply glad to have been part of that. Discreetly so to speak - He couldn't very well let people know he had been around the gryffindors. What would Draco say? At any rate, seeing Harry holding the egg and coming in tie to Krum, Mortimer was about to get a galleon richer.

What should he do now? Part of him wanted to go down to the tents and congratulate him on an excellent job.

"Should we go after Draco?" Theo asks.

"Let him cool down first." Mortimer suggests. "He's a bit grumpy."

Chuckling, he folds his arms as the wind begins to pick up. "No kidding - We should head back inside now. It's starting to freeze up."

"I'll meet you back inside. I'm going to catch up with. . ." He hesitates to come up with a decent lie. "Luna. . " Squinting his eyes, he slurs out.

There was a moment where Mortimer thought Theo wasn't going to buy it. He stayed motioneless until Nott begins to laugh. "I knew it!"

Mortimer instantly raises a brow, his eyes narrowing as he notices Theo's sinister smile. "Knew what?"

"You.." Pointing at him, "and Luna!" he starts getting giggly. "You have a thing for her!"

His eyes suddenly widen, he inwardly starts to panic as he looms around the booths. His lie might've just cost him... big time...

People were starting to look at their direction, Theo laughing was making it easily noticeable. Breathing out; he now regretted. ever saying anything. "You got it all wrong, Nott. There is no thing and we're just friends."

"I see the way you two act." Theo teased. "Going to the forbbiden forest... I wonder what the cute couple does in there."

"You're being ridiculous right now." Mortimer dimly answers in disbelief. He was about to walk away when Theo suddenly puts his hands on his shoulders, keeping him in place.

"Am I?" Theo challenges, coming close to say. "Who's the one trying to sneak off to avoid being caught?"

"Think what you want, Nott." Mortimer huffed, shaking his hands aways. "I have important matters to attend to."

But Theo wasn't entirely convinced. Covering his mouth to hold in his laughter. "I bet you do - Look at you. . . being all sneaky and whatnot." He lets out humorous breath, grinning like an absolute fool. "Go on then." Waving a dismissive hand, he gives another light laugh. "Wouldn't want to keep you away from your friend - And don't worry, I promise not to tell Draco."

"Peachy." Mortimer replies in a dull tone. Yet, somewhere deep inside, he felt slightly nervous, feeling as though he had just dug up his own grave. He was certain Theo was going to start gossiping with the other girls about his suppose crush. Stuff like this usually spreads like wildfire - it's the only thing that made school life exciting - Then he'd soon find himself being dragged into teenage drama.

The worse kind of scenerio there is.

Bleugh! Wanting to spit in irritation, Mortimer makes his way down. He hopes the lie doesn't cause too much trouble. he didn't want his words to reach Luna's ears, nor did he want her to get the wrong idea.

Perhaps after this he'll go find her and explain it to her. If anyone will understand, it's her.

Theo was watching him with the same goofy smile that was begging to be teared down. He stops himself from doing anything rash.

Mortimer ignored Nott's ringing laughter as he continues climbing down the steps. Entering a small entry way, there was a pavement leading to a different part of the enclosure. He notices the many chains that were hanging above the ceilings. There was random equipment just laying about and heavy sandbags resting near the corners.

Large wooden chest were either locked or cracked open, containing various supplies. Mortimer brushes over barrels of dead fish and swimming eels.

Walking for nearly five minutes, Mortimer reaches the tents. The area had been divided, giving each paitent their own space. Upon entering he finds one of the curtains slightly open. A medical worker was attending to Diggory. Another nurse was checking Delacour's legs since the bottom of her skirt was seared off and badly staines by ash. The last room was covered but you could see a big bulky shadow that resembled Krum, appearing to be sitting back.

He spots Madam Pomfey standing to the side of the tent with a phial at hand, ordering the staff as she asks them to hand her another flask.

Everyone seemed to busy to notice him coming in.

Searching for the spectacled boy, he didn't wander too long once Mortimer spots Harry sitting inside one of the set up rooms. Granger has yet to show, meaning he beat her to it.

Swinging the curtain back, Mortimer reveals himself, putting on the friendliest smiles. "There's the champion."

Harry instantly gets up. "Mortimer?" Hs said in a surprised tone. Mortimer was sure that Harry hadn't expected him to come here. "What are you..." Harry was about to ask but stops midway once he notices what Mortimer was wearing. "Are those gryffindor robes?"

"No, I just changed the color." Mortimer explains. Harry's confusion was easy to read. "What? I said I'd be cheering for you, didn't I?"

A slight chuckle escapes his mouth. "Yeah, you did... Just didn't expect you'd actually follow through."

"And miss the chance to upset my dear cousin?" Responding in a cheerful manner, the two of them laugh it out. "I just wanted to say... congrats. You were great out there."

Harry opened his mouth to retort but shortly closes it, a faint blush passes over his face. Instead, he nods his head and smiles. "Thank you." Glancing away, he rubs the back of his neck. "I can't take all the credit... You were a great help."

Despite the awkwardness, Mortimer offers his support, smiling as he speaks. "All that work really did pay off, huh? I can't believe you tricked the dragon! Oh! The way you flew around, I was near dizzy. You were so fast, I could hardly keep up with my own eyes; it was incredible."

The way Mortimer spoke, with pure surety and undeniable triumph - There was a loss of words on his part. "I'm just glad to have survived it all."

Nodding, his smile widens and nudged him behind the shoulder a bit. "That'll teach everyone for doubting you. After this, I'm sure everything will go back to normal, and all this will have been nothing but a nightmare."

Harry sighed, playing mindlessly with the edge of the cot he was gripping. "What about my friends? Will they ever get over it?"

"If you're expecting an apology, I doubt you're going to get one." Mortimer began hesitantly. "No offense - Weasley doesn't seem the type. He's too prideful... If anything, he'll more than likely act as if it never happened and pretend, he didn't just leave you for another company. Keep in mind - You're only his friend until you stray away from his rules. But of course, it's up to you whether you want to forgive and forget. Nobody can stop you from choosing, and no one can blame you - aside from Weasley."

Harry stares at him, eyes shifting between him and the ground. "You've given this a lot of thought, haven't you?"

"Not really." Mortimer admits in rather timid voice. "I didn't have a lot of friends growing up. I have seen friendships break apart because of petty squabbles and it made me realize the people they picked were nothing more than just strangers. They weren't really friends, perhaps they were at some point but overtime the thing that brought them together outgrew any foundation for a proper relationship. Any good friend wouldn't simply toss the other for better prospects. A friendship isn't worth much if you're not willing to fight for it."

Soon as he finished, Harry's face fell, exasperated beyond measure, feeling a wave of fatigue wash over him. A weary sigh that earned him a sympathetic smile from Mortimer. "I haven't really thought about it."

Swishing his hand, he makes a choking sound, probably because he was starting to realize he was getting all mushy with his words. "Take what I say with a grain of salt. In fact, do whatever you want. I just thought I'd stop by and see how you're doing."

Clearing his throat, he nods. "Thanks for everything... It's nice... talking."

The word he used was nice. Nice. Mortimer found it to be absurd; it was annoying to be frank. However, his motives for doing this in the first place continues to coax him into keeping up the act. If this what it takes to get Potter to hand over the memory, then by gosh darn it, he was going to be the bestest of friends.

"What has this world come to?" Mortimer started to walk away, leaving Harry stunned but still smiling. "Anytime you need an ear, I'll be here." He suddenly adds, turning back briefly to stare at him one last time.

A nod of dismissal, he takes this as his cue to leave.

Just as he was about to make his exit, the shrouds of curtains open to reveal Hermione. It didn't come to as surprise and Mortimer was going to greet her. That is until he realizes she hadn't come alone. Hiding behind her was none other than Ron, his eyes were looking at the ground. Yet, they didn't linger long when their eyes meet.

An immediate wave of anger is casted on his freckled face. "What are you doing here?" Ron snarls at his presence. Caught in his own thought, Weasley nearly pushes Hermione back when he decides to confront Black. "Here to make fun us, are you?"

They were looking at his red, gold uniform.

Such hostility, there was no room for politeness in Ron's eyes. His rowdiness was, nonetheless, brushed to the side. Staring at Granger, he could see that she wasn't going to be much of a help. Huffing out, he pushes his hair back. "I came to see how Harry was doing. He did well today -"

"Mortimer it's alright." Harry says from a distance. He was sitting on the cot; his expression was neutral. Though, it was plain to see that Ron's appearance was not all he was expecting. "You don't have to say anything - I'll catch up with you later."

Despite the stiff air that was surrounding them, Mortimer felt a small sense of gratification. Something in his voice made it difficult for either one of them to respond, a shift that Mortimer found quite amusing.

It came to a complete surprise as they glanced to where Potter was resting, as if contemplating something. They were filled with such shock; Mortimer definitely didn't think he'd speak up not when the trio was about to get back together. What should he do? He felt trapped in the middle. But then he abruptly remembers Draco had left without him. "Right..." He says lightly. "I'll see you guys around then - and again, congrats! I'm glad you're safe, Harry." He says one last time.

Running out of the tent, he leaves Harry to deal with Granger and Weasley. Whether he forgives the redhead or not was no concern to him. But he hopes his efforts were not in vain, Mortimer needs his memory and waiting for it was becoming a challenge. It would've been easier if he had just preformed Legilimens. It has never been used on anyone else before now and his head still pounded from entering, but it had left him feeling bittersweet.

He had been impressed, clearly, he'd grown into his magic, never having displayed the full reach. If he can only get close enough, Mortimer was sure he could get Harry to open up, even if he's not willing.

Biting his finger, Mortimer stops himself from continuing the idea.

No.

This had to be done carefully.

He can't appear too desperate otherwise the others will suspect him in more ways than none and any hopes of getting closer to Potter would've been for nothing.

There were a still few lingering children around the arena. There were those who weren't exactly ready to go back inside and have remained where they stood. A few students were sitting on the benches, others talked on the steps, a small group of witches were collecting banters from the game.

While not many had stayed there long, Mortimer decides to walk back towards the castle. Throughout the walk his hands were tightened into fists, the weight of the past few days sinking down on him. He didn't blame anyone but himself - Well not entirely - It was difficult not to acknowledge just how lost he was. Something about this whole thing felt utterly wrong.

Like a timer had been set off and now he had wait for the sound that will bring it to an end. There was something lurking, waiting to get him, but it was hard to pinpoint it when the whole world despises you.

He was slowly losing patience - His expression will tell you otherwise - As composed as he may have appeared, he was clawing and trying to tear his way out to the surface. He keeps in well locked, focusing on his breathing while reminding himself about the posing risks that are involved.

The driving force behind the hands of fate painted an awful picture. To counter it, his own eyes formulating a plan to rid those who wanted to hurt him. His perspective on what to do now was simply pound those who comes across him. However, it seemed too careless.

Transforming his uniform back to its original slytherin colors, he stares over his shoulder. No one was there. Although, he was beginning to suspect he had a follower. It was more of an inconvenience to have to watch one's step.

There was also the small fact that he was caught in the hospital wing. With what Moody had told him, he debates whether or not he should continue. A suffocating dread slammed into him at the thought of anyone knowing. Who could it be? Whoever it was, this person was becoming a threat if they were going to involve others. The professors, he can tolerate - no big deal - the real issue was Dumbledore.

The one person to avoid. Mortimer was aware that tricking the old man wasn't going to be easy. He knew so much; the old man probably even knew Mortimer more than he knew himself.

He stops walking when he feels a sharp pain.

Opening his once clenched up hands, he notes that there were nail cuts visible on his skin.

Exhaling softly, he shakes his head. Putting his hands inside his pockets he continues his walk.

"Hello, Mortimer."

"Hello, Luna."

Just the person he needed to see.

And great timing too.

"How is Harry?" Asking, she walks alongside him. Her small frame could barely reach his shoulders.

"He's doing alright. A few scratches but nothing serious."

"That's good news." Smiling up at him. Yet, her expression went quite still. "I saw Draco practically running out. He probably wasn't too pleased."

Scratching his chin, he murmurs. "He's upset that Potter got tied in first place - Not because I went to go see him."

"Oh, I see." She pips, putting her hands behind her back. "Was Theo at least supportive? He appeared to be reacting well."

"Again, he knows nothing."

"A shame." She laments for a short second. "They have a lot in common - I'm certain they would get along perfectly if they simply took the time to really get to know each other."

"We can only hope." He chuckles, sharing a glance before heading towards the pathway.

"Harry did great - Everyone did - Though, hurting the dragon..." She wrinkles her small nose. "That wasn't very nice of Krum to do."

"Caught me off guard too. But what did you expect? He seems like the type, build like a tank too, thought he might start to wrestle it."

Tapping her lips, she looks to the side. "Yes, the girls have mentioned his muscles... once or twice."

"You mean, every time." Scoffing as he rolls his eyes.

They both laugh in agreement.

"I'm glad it's over. Now the dragons can finally go home and finish raising their eggs."

"Wonder what the second task will be."

"You could ask Draco. I sure his father told him everything, he's on the school board, remember?"

"Haven't thought about it. A good idea."

"And it doesn't require you to be sneaky." Giggling, she takes one long step to avoid stepping in muddy puddle.

Abruptly, he recalls why he needed to see her. "About that..." Mortimer begins, rubbing the back of his head he doesn't know where to pick up. "There's something I have to tell you."

"Oh, what is it?" She smiles while tilting her head.

His features went flat, shoulders tensing when his eyes darted left. "It's a long story. . ."

"We still have plenty to go." A smile that seemed genuine, it made Mortimer want to be truthful.

Breathing out, he pretends to be looking at something. Preparing himself, he starts of by telling her. "I told Theo. . ."

Following the trail of dimly lit lanterns, they go back in the direction of the castle. Two moving figures walking side by side become smaller within minutes. They took their time and shortly after disappearing into the distance.

You can almost hear faint laughter's from far behind.

Mortimer was right.

He could tell her anything.

By a mile away, he knew she would understand.