Chapter 13
The next morning, straight after a wonderful breakfast that was again held on the terrace, they all climbed into the Toyota's and followed the track heading for the coast. The 'ten minutes from the beach' actually proved accurate, they just forgot to mention it was by car.
The small private beach gave the impression of everyone's idea of an idyllic tropical hideaway, but given the 'Victorian Britain' makeover. To access the beach, there was a winding wrought iron stairway that led down to a wooden slatted area running the entire two hundred meter length of the beach. The Victorian effect was added to by the brightly painted wooden beach huts, sitting prettily on about a quarter of the small wooden promenade deck.
Dan and Emma immediately fell in love with it, the setting couldn't help but evoke happy memories of childhood holidays spent at British seaside resorts, the main differences being that here they had brilliant sunshine and no donkeys stinking up the beach. British health and safety legislation had finally got around to passing laws on this and the 'children's donkey rides on the beach' trade was a respectable one now. That hadn't been the case when they were kids and it wasn't only jellyfish you had to look out for when paddling in the water.
The huts contained everything from loungers and parasols to surf boards and equipment to play games on the beach. With a barbecue, cooker, running water, showers, toilet facilities and food cupboards freshly supplied, the group could spend their entire holiday here.
While Dan and Emma set up a few loungers on the pristine sand, Harry emerged from the last hut carrying some hold-alls. Only when he started distributing the bags did their recipients realise they had their name printed on them.
"These are a gift from a grateful Barchoke for the help and respect you've given to, not only their champion, but the goblin nation as a whole."
Inside the bags were suits of custom made basilisk skin armour. "It's going to be bloody freezing in that water and I had discussed with Hermione buying non-magical wet suits to protect us against the cold of the Black Lake. These will provide warmth and a lot more besides, anything short of an unforgivable will hardly scratch these."
Luna could hardly contain her excitement at being included and when she examined her suit, it had the word 'PRESS' emblazoned on the back, earning Harry once again a kiss on the cheek from the little blond.
"Should I be getting worried Harry, giving gifts and receiving kisses from other girls. This is getting to be a habit." The humour in Hermione's voice had the group chuckling.
Harry was well aware Hermione was joking but had an answer ready for her. "There's one in there with your name on it too, I just didn't want you to think there was an option to accompany us on the task. Thanks to Xeno, these two are accredited members of the press, under tournament rules they are permitted to observe. There will again be hundreds of spectators, this time sitting bored out their skulls, watching the surface of the lake for an hour. With Dumbledore the only person who supposedly speaks Mermish, he could say anything and who could dispute it? This way the Quibbler's top investigative reporting team of Lovegood and Creevey get to tell the world exactly what happens while Rita sulks in the background composing her usual works of fiction."
Colin realised his Christmas gift would enable him to take the first pictures of the merepeople in their natural environment, "This will be another enormous scoop for the Quibbler."
"Yes, and for Lovegood and Creevey! We have the perfect opportunity to practice here, with the underwater sights being a lot more colourful than the bottom of the Black Lake in February will be. The sea is warded out to a hundred meters to repel any sharks so it will be perfectly safe."
"It's bad enough that you lot have to go but are you sure it's safe for these two in the Black Lake?" A worried Emma asked.
"They will be perfectly safe as nothing in that lake is going to attack a group of six wizards and witches. Trust me when I say we'll be sticking together, competition be dammed."
"Eh Harry?" Luna held a delicate but deadly goblin made blade in her hand.
"It's part of the suit Luna, there will be a holster for your wand and another that fits your knife, goblins are never without a weapon of some sort. My suit has one at my hip, the small of my back and even a holster for the sword of Gryffindor on my shoulder, the weapons are all charmed invisible when sheathed."
Cedric was holding an altogether more wicked-looking blade in his hand, "I would hate to meet anything that I would need to use this on. How are they going to breathe underwater? Third years won't be able to cast a bubble head charm, far less maintain it for an hour."
Harry put his arm around Hermione's shoulders, his praise causing her to blush. "My Hermione has already solved that problem, thanks to the goblin supplied library. A plant called 'Gillyweed' that when eaten will transform you to grow gills, plus webbed feet and hands. Since the magic is in the plant their age doesn't matter, it will work equally well with Gabrielle or Dan and Emma. Anyone fancy a spot of underwater swimming?"
Dan was staring at Harry in disbelief, "You mean if I eat this plant I can breathe underwater like a fish?"
"For one hour Dan, so we all need to stay together in case there's some time discrepancies due to body mass, age or something but it will work."
The Grangers led the mad rush into the huts to get changed, less than ten minutes later everyone was in the water as Harry was handing out the Gillyweed. One glance at its slimy rat-tail appearance curbed some of the enthusiasm and had one or two doubting if it was worth it.
It was Dan who was brave enough to try it first, "Well it can't possibly taste as bad as Hermione's attempts at making pasta." With a cheeky wink at his daughter, Dan began chewing before grabbing his throat in pain. Feeling the beginning of what Dan assumed were gill slits there, he submerged below the water and was suddenly smiling while giving everyone the thumbs-up sign.
That was the signal for the rest of the group to shut their eyes and stuff it in their mouths. Emma quietly thought that Dan was right, it didn't taste as bad as Hermione's attempts at pasta.
Fleur kept Gabrielle close but they soon found themselves surrounded by their friends, checking that they were ok. They swam around for a while, getting used to the effects and the Grangers also were gently shepherded into the centre of the group.
When they became accustomed to having webbed hands and feet, Harry, Cedric and Victor moved away a little bit to practice casting spells underwater. Colin was putting his new camera through its paces while Luna kept an eye on him.
Fleur was more concerned with getting used to being underwater and maintaining a close watch over her sister than practicing spells so both remained swimming around in the company of the three Grangers.
Hermione thought her parents reminded her of Harry in Hamleys, their exuberance at experiencing magic and what it could do for them was a delight to behold. They swam around like a couple of otter pups, even resorting to playfully chasing fish.
Gabrielle thought she would be terrified underwater but nothing could be further from the truth, with Fleur by her side and Harry, Victor and Cedric only twenty meters away she felt as if cocooned in a warm blanket. Nothing bad could touch her in this company, instead of a dangerous environment this felt like being watched over in her own garden, and what a garden!
The diversity of colours and light could take your breath away, well it would if the Gillyweed hadn't made that function redundant. She could feel her sister start to relax and enjoy herself but it seemed no time at all before Harry was signalling to everyone that there was ten minutes left so they headed for shallower water.
Hermione caught up with her betrothed because there was something she was dying to try before the Gillyweed wore off, wrapping herself around him she began a kiss that didn't require them to break for oxygen. When the pain in their necks began, neither had any intention of stopping and they broke the surface together, still kissing.
"Now why didn't you think off that Dan?" Emma joked.
"Well I didn't think kissing my daughter like that was appropriate behaviour."
That ended the kiss, "Trust dad to spoil the mood."
"It's that suit you're wearing love, if there was any meremen around I would have had a battle on my hand as they tried to steal you away."
Hermione's legs were wrapped around Harry under the water, allowing both her hands to slip down there while her betrothed supported her. They quickly returned with an evil looking dagger and her wand, "Anyone but you coming near me is in for a shock Mr Potter, I can take care of myself."
That earned her a quick kiss, "Pleased to hear it dear, now let's get something to eat, all that swimming has gave me an appetite."
It was a very happy group of people who made their way up the beach.
-oOoOo-
Dan was immensely relieved, Harry Potter was absolutely and utterly crap at golf!
He'd finally found something that the lad couldn't do effortlessly, here was at least one thing Dan could teach him. It maybe wasn't much in the great scheme of life but Dan was sure if Harry had picked up a three iron and smashed the ball straight for two hundred yards then he would have cried.
It was bloody frustrating trying to be a father figure to a young man that appeared to have all the answers while riding dragons or slaying basilisks in his spare time. This was the first chink in Harry's armour, how was he supposed to mentor someone who could bring down a government or boot his headmaster out his job?
They were on the driving range at the golf club and it was just the two of them, the ladies were shopping. Cedric, Victor and Colin, with no experience of this phenomenon, weren't quick enough with their excuses so got dragged along.
Having a long standing arrangement to break in his new clubs gave Dan the out he needed, of course Harry had agreed to play a round with him which is why they were both on the driving range.
He'd been constantly giving Harry advice and Dan could see that the lad was becoming frustrated, then Harry took a deep breath, calmed himself, shifted his stance more in line with what he'd been trying to teach him. There was a pause while he became so focused his eyes almost bored holes in the ball. Thwack, Harry hit the ball with the sweet spot of the club and his shot flew straight and true, granted it wasn't a massive distance but if he could repeat that feat with any sort of regularity then he would have conquered the basic swing.
Five of the next six shots were straight with only a slight slice spoiling the run, Dan was beginning to think Harry might be so crap at golf they may have a shot at his club's 'father and son' medal in a few years, "Ok Harry, let's try you on the putting greens before heading out to the course."
-oOoOo-
Harry was lying awake, he'd had such a brilliant day that his mind was struggling to calm down enough to allow sleep. His time on the golf course with Dan had allowed the two to become closer, the fact that Harry liked and admired Hermione's father might have a lot to do with that. Since after the first morning in McGonagall's office, Hermione's parents had been nothing but supportive toward him and his relationship with their daughter. This was a totally new experience for Harry and one he found exhilarating. To them he was Harry Potter, Hermione's boyfriend and future member of their family, that was as good as it got in his book.
He heard someone moving about on the terrace and got up to investigate, worried that it was Hermione trying to sneak back into his room. He loved the girl so much and she was quickly wearing down his defences but he wanted to wait until they were ready, not sneak about like thieves in the night.
They'd only been betrothed a couple of months and Harry was worried Hermione kept pushing for this in case he got interested in other girls, nothing could be further from his mind .
Harry had heard boys talk and his fat cousin and his friends even boast about how they treated girls, Harry wanted no part of that. He intended to be with Hermione for the rest of his life so felt no need to rush, he would not bow to peer pressure or let custom dictate when they moved their relationship on. Harry had so little affection in his life that he wanted to savour every morsel before moving on to the next course. Hermione's own self-esteem issues left her worried that Harry didn't want her when every hormone in his body was screaming abuse at him for saying no.
He'd explained his stance and that he wanted another ring on her finger before moving on to that and she'd seemed relieved, both that she now had some sort of time scale and she didn't have to make good on her offer there and then. The snogging session that followed had both of them reconsidering that decision before Harry called it a night, yes he was strong willed but Merlin his betrothed was only minutes away from kissing that resolve goodbye.
Harry had slept in a pair of shorts and pulled a t-shirt on before leaving to investigate. He didn't have to go very far to discover Luna standing on the terrace, leaning on the rail and looking off into the distance. The moonlight reflected off the tear tracks on her cheeks but the blissful smile she wore belied any hurt.
"Luna, are you ok?"
"Harry I'm so far beyond ok it's scaring me," Harry put his arm around her as the young blond rested her head on his chest, he figured she wanted to talk and he was quite happy to listen.
"Today we went shopping and Emma treated me just like a daughter, Hermione is becoming the sister I never had, I was surrounded by friends and holding my boyfriends hand. It was so wonderful and I just don't ever want it to end, we'll be heading back to Hogwarts soon but the time I've spent here has been the happiest of my life. I know we have to move on but now I've experienced this I could never go back to the way my life was before Halloween, it would kill me Harry."
Harry had both arms around her now and kissed the top of her head. "Luna you will never be alone again and if you've room in there for an honorary brother I'd like to apply for the position. I would love a little sis who could keep me on my toes and ensure I don't muck-up too bad with Hermione."
Luna's arms were now around Harry, "I already think of you as my best friend and guardian angel, big brother is not too far a stretch from there."
"Luna we haven't thought much beyond this bloody tournament but you can be assured, any plans we have will include you Miss Lovegood. Once we finish the last task we can all sit down and weigh up our options."
Harry could feel the wetness seeping through his shirt as the tears flowed from Luna, she was now looking into his face and beaming a megawatt smile directly at him.
"Thank you Harry, I think I just needed to hear you say that. I feel so much better now that I know I'm going to have sweet dreams tonight." A kiss on his cheek later and Luna floated off to her room.
As Harry watched her go, he felt another pair of arms encircle him from behind and it was his turn to receive a kiss on the top of his head.
"You Harry Potter are one fine young man, if I was twenty years younger…"
"You'd be me, mother!" Hermione jokingly interrupted, this gave her time to wipe her own eyes. "Harry this is becoming a habit finding you in girls' arms and receiving kisses, even my mother is in on the act here." She couldn't keep a straight face though and spoiled the whole effect by giggling.
"Well it's your own fault for choosing such a charming gentleman," Emma joked right back.
Harry embarrassingly asked, "Eh how long were you two standing there?"
Hermione gently kissed the boy who was still held in her mother's arms, "Long enough Mr Potter, if you don't mind mother I would like to tuck my betrothed into bed before any other females get ideas that he's available."
Emma chuckled, "Just don't take all night dear."
Hermione led him into his room before speaking quietly, she definitely didn't want to be overheard. "Harry I now understand why you want to wait and I'm happy with that, but there are other ways we can take our relationship forward."
Hermione now had Harry's full attention, "Like what love?"
"Well I've been doing some reading…"
The smiles on their faces at breakfast indicted that must have been a good book Hermione read.
Fleur and Gabrielle were also lying awake and, with their windows open, had overheard the entire incident out on the terrace.
Gabi had a question for her big sister, "Fleur, are all the boys like Harry?"
It may be dark but Fleur's rueful smile was there none the less. "Unfortunately not, boys like Harry Potter are very rare and if you ever find one Gabi, grab hold of him and don't let go."
"What about Victor and Cedric?"
"Oh those two are very nice as well."
This seemed to make up Gabriele's mind, "Ok, you take one and I'll have the other! You're the oldest so it's only fair you get first pick."
Fleur was trying not to laugh at her serious little sister, "It doesn't work that way Gabi, neither they nor us are possessions to be owned. Harry and Hermione have shown me the difference and I want what they've got, I want a husband who will love Fleur Delacour, not a Veela. I like both those boys but they're my friends, maybe in a while that will change but I don't think so, we will always be good friends but nothing more than that."
Gabrielle looked confused, "But how are you going to find such a man?"
Fleur laughed, "I have a simple plan. Harry only hangs about with nice people, if I stay close then I'm sure to meet someone."
"Do you think Harry would mind if I stayed close as well?"
"I'm sure Harry would like that," she decided to tease Gabi a little, "I understand that Colin has a younger brother?"
"Eh no thanks sis, I like Colin and he's nice enough but I …" Her big sister's giggling gave the game away and saw Gabrielle's pillow heading at speed in her direction.
-oOoOo-
They entered the great hall as a group, a bit weary as they were still adjusting to the time difference but fully refreshed after their break. Even saying goodbye to Gabi wasn't as bad as they thought it would be. This was greatly helped by the fact she would be coming to stay with them in seven weeks for the second task.
Australia had been wonderful and a much-needed break, the only incident of any concern was sitting in a restaurant where you could see into the kitchen and spying a chef who looked remarkably like Severus Snape. They couldn't be certain as any trademark greasy hair would have been inside his white hat, he was dressed from head to toe in the same brilliant white colour and his chef's outfit definitely hadn't the capabilities to billow like robes as he moved. Just the thought of a Snape look-alike was enough to destroy their appetite and ensure they left the restaurant quickly, without eating or drinking anything.
They sat together as a group at the end of the Gryffindor table, greeting friends as McGonagall stood to make an announcement before the welcoming feast.
"I would like to bid you all welcome to a new year at Hogwarts and make an announcement, inspired by pictures of our Champions enjoying themselves over the festive season. They have shown a willingness to learn from each other that should be an inspiration to us all. With that in mind a decision was made to show some real Scottish hospitality to our guests, not only from France and Bulgaria, but England, Ireland and Wales as well. Hogwarts will be hosting a Ceilidh here in the great hall on the Saturday before Burns Night, there will be a traditional supper followed by dancing to a Ceilidh band until midnight. All students forth year and above are welcome to attend, younger students may be asked as dates by those of age. I look forward to seeing everyone there."
This was like a bolt out the blue and more than a few sets of eyes turned to Hermione for an explanation, she of course was happy to provide one. "A Ceilidh is Scottish country dancing and a great idea for bringing down barriers as lots of the dances are reels where half of you move on to the next group as part of the dance. Haggis is wonderful, just eat it and never ask what's in it!"
Cedric was quick on the uptake and wanted everyone to attend, "Luna would you do me the honour of accompanying me to the Ceilidh?"
Fleur was also no slouch, "Colin I would be honoured to go with you, thank you so much for asking."
Victor was about to ask Ginny, ensuring that the younger girl could attend when Neville beat him to it. This left him in a bit of a bind when he thought, what would Harry do? The answer came to him instantly and it was a smiling Victor Krum who got to his feet and headed for the Slytherin table.
Millie was aware that all talking had stopped around her but it wasn't until she turned around from speaking with Tracy about the dance that she discovered the reason why, Victor Krum was standing there smiling at her.
"Miss Bulstrode, would you do me the honour of accompanying me to the Ceilidh?" His smile made her knees wobble, "I have to warn you though Millicent, I know none of these dances so you are going to have to teach me."
She was amazed how composed she felt on the outside because her innards were dancing 'the dashing white sergeant'. "I would like that very much Victor and look forward to the dancing lessons."
With another smile and a slight bow, he returned to the Gryffindor table, leaving Millie thinking her mum would never believe her.
Hermione was just putting the mirror away after contacting her mum for emergency dance lessons when a thought struck her. "Harry, McGonagall is going all out to be hospitable here, how about we return the favour?"
Harry's blank expression had her continuing, "I think you gentlemen would all look so sexy in kilts, while we ladies wear dresses with matching tartan sashes, what do you think?"
Harry had a twinkle in his eye, "Do we include professors Moony and Padfoot as gentlemen?"
Hermione was giggling now, "Not usually but in this case that's a definite yes! It would be worth it just to see Sirius in a kilt."
Ginny was the only one to pour cold water on the idea, "Do you really want to turn the twins lose in Hogwarts wearing kilts? Merlin knows what they could fit in their sporrans!"
This had the effect of cracking everyone up, except Victor. "Eh what's a kilt and a sporran sounds painful?"
The laughter emanating from the Gryffindor table was infectious, everyone was feeling good and looking forward to the surprise event.
Only Cho Chang had a face like a wet fish, Cedric sitting beside the Veela was bad enough but then to ask loony to the Ceilidh was just being spiteful as far as she was concerned. She didn't know that a man with a long white beard thought so too, and because of this there would be plenty wet fish in her future.
Albus was delighted with the announcement of the dance, he had of course already chosen the Hogwarts pair's hostages, this gave him the chance to observe the other two. It was blatantly obvious why the French Veela asked Mr Creevey so he would have to closely observe her on the night and see who she danced with, it appeared though that Mr Krum's choice was already made.
Albus could see their unity making a mockery of the tournament but had something up his sleeve for the next task to ensure that didn't happen, he was after all still the greatest wizard alive.
Ron Weasley sat oblivious to all the merriment that surrounded him, his entire concentration was focused on doing justice to the feast presented here. He missed Dean and Seamus asking Lavender and Parvati to the dance, his brothers and Lee asking the three Gryffindor chasers also went unnoticed. The only legs and breasts he was interested in at the moment currently had succulent juices running out of them and went great with roast potatoes, he reached out for his third helping of chicken.
-oOoOo-
Their plan with Sirius backfired as, not only did he love the idea of kilts but insisted on making all the arrangements as well as paying for them. Citing that his family fortune had sat there growing while he was in Azkaban and the ministry were now offering him compensation as well so he was due a spending spree.
A Hogsmead weekend had been announced to allow some preparation and Sirius had booked the entire tribe into a kilt makers in Edinburgh on the Saturday, that famous city wouldn't know what hit it!
They had acquired a tartan catalogue from the shop and Sirius was delighted to discover there was a Black clan tartan so his decision was easy, Tracy and Daphne wanted to honour the head who'd saved their house so their dates, Blaise and Theodore would be wearing Black tartan kilts.
Of the Hufflepuff contingent only Susan's date Ernie had a clan tartan, it was even in their house colours so the four puffs would be wearing Macmillan tartan
Remus also loved the kilt idea but chose McGonagall tartan to honour the woman who'd been his head of house for seven years and actually gave a werewolf a prefect's badge. Remus still had it and it was amongst his most prized possessions, he still considered receiving that badge as one of his best ever days. The other Gryffindors thought his kilt was a great idea and all decided to wear the same, all except Colin since his 'date' was a champion.
Harry never expected there to be a Potter tartan but the name he did see there surprised him, he also thought it would be entirely fitting. "Hermione, do you think your dad would mind if we wore the Granger clan tartan?"
Hermione's eyes glistened with moisture as she answered her betrothed, "Harry I think he would love it!" She then proceeded to give him one of her special reward kisses.
While they were otherwise occupied the rest of the group thought this was a brilliant idea and agreed, especially when Millicent noticed the tartan base colour was green. The four champions and their dates would be dressed like muggles, in a design that honoured the non-magical parents of one of their best friends. Not only were they pleased with the message of unity that presented but all genuinely liked Dan and Emma, they were after all going to be teaching them how to dance at a Ceilidh.
The twins absolutely loved the dancing, their natural exuberance was perfect for this most social of dancing events. Dancing as part of their group when performing 'Strip the Willow' was almost dangerous, they could see any group with Hagrid and Madame Maxime being a hoot.
When they all attended there were fourteen couples and they were able to hold their own mini Ceilidh in the training room with the CD player. Emma and Dan taught them the basics before introducing the concept of progressing to the next group, no one thought Hogwarts was quite ready for the ladies moving from partner to partner, they were close but did not want to tempt fate yet.
Minerva and Filius watched one night and the Grangers were approached about teaching a few classes in the castle, when she discovered Dan was something of a Burns aficionado, she immediately invited him to offer 'Address to a Haggis'.
Even without the whole magical background, Dan Granger understood what an honour this was. He'd never even been asked to do this at his golf club's Burns Suppers, another two names were added to the Edinburgh shopping trip on Saturday.
Filius was delighted, he'd originally been earmarked to perform that poem but this now freed him to give a rendition of his favourite, Tam O'Shanter. What disappointed him was the continual lack of Ravenclaws in this company, though with Miss Chang's latest stunt he couldn't see that changing anytime soon.
Flashback –
She spied her enemy walking along the corridor, this was her chance at some revenge. "Hey loony, you do know Cedric only asked you to the dance because you wouldn't be able to go otherwise?"
Luna had a genuine confused expression on her face, "Since Cedric is my friend and he knows that Colin is my boyfriend I would say that you're correct. We will accompany Cedric and Fleur and, as usual, be in their company for the entire night. It's just a way for us both to attend."
Mentioning Fleur and Cedric in the same sentence was too much for Cho, "That bastard Veela got her hooks into my boyfriend, how can any witch compete with her allure?"
"Fleur is my friend and has only ever used her allure once that I'm aware of. It was against Harry and had no effect, she has of course since apologised."
Cho was incensed, was this little tramp insinuating she couldn't hold on to her wizard? "You're loony Lovegood, you don't have any friends! They only use you because your daddy owns that stupid newspaper."
Luna held her head high. "I shall go to the dance with my friends and boyfriend and have a great time, what will you be doing Cho?"
"Why you…" Cho's rant and reach for her wand halted the second Luna's wand was pointed right between her eyes.
"I live with two professors, have private tutors and access to a library you wouldn't believe. I also train every day with four champions and I'm confident I can kick your jealous arse up and down this corridor. Do you want to see if I'm right?" Cho now realised this was a whole new version of loony she was dealing with.
"Where are your friends Cho? Did they finally get fed-up with your constant bitching or grow-up enough to know that bullying is wrong?"
"I don't see any of your so-called friends here either loony."
"Oh you don't have to worry about that, we've always got Luna's back covered." Harry, Hermione, Cedric and Colin walked round the corner from where they had obviously been listening.
Colin walked toward his girlfriend and slowly lowered her wand by gently placing his hand on hers, "Luna, don't do this, you're worth ten of her."
The real kicker though was when Cedric looked his ex-girlfriend up and down before adding, "Colin, I think you're underestimating Luna there."
This was too much for Cho who burst into tears and raced along the corridor, straight into Flitwick who'd also been monitoring the situation. "Is everything all right Miss Lovegood?"
Luna's wand was back up her sleeve in its holster while Colin held her hand, "Oh yes professor, everything's fine."
End Flashback –
Filius had yet to decide if it would be more of a punishment to make Miss Chang attend or confine her to the dorm, he could make strong arguments for both.
-oOoOo-
Dumbledore's nose was seriously out of joint, he thought his robes were splendid but the sight of the couples marching in, boys with swirling kilts and the girls in pastel coloured dresses with matching tartan sashes stole the entire evening. They were using house tables for the first part of the evening and only Ravenclaw didn't have anyone in a kilt. The champion's party were bedecked in green tartan and actually sat at the Slytherin table, much to the delight of Miss Bulstrode.
Minerva's eyes were filing up at the stirring sight of so many Gryffindors in McGonagall tartan, she stood to begin the evening. "Welcome everyone, as is tradition we will begin with the piping in of the haggis. Our night will consist of much dancing but with breaks for poetry and songs, celebrating the works of Robert Burns. Let the evening commence."
At that the doors opened and a piper led four elves who carried an enormous silver salver, containing a haggis nearly the size of them. The bagpipes stirringly reverberated off the walls as the procession made its way to the top table, the salver was levitated right onto the table in front of Dan.
Those who knew him could tell he was nervous but the rest of the hall thought he was fantastic, they all at least recognised the Grangers from the dance lessons held in this very hall.
To be honest Dan had lost them by the time he got to 'Great chieftain o the puddin'-race!' but the drama he lent to his performance brought them back. When he plunged the dagger into the haggis, the hall was hanging on his every word, even though they only understood about one in four.
After they had eaten Professor Flitwick's rendition of 'Tam O'Shanter' had them hooting with laughter and cheering as Tam and Meg made it over the bridge. He got a standing ovation when he finished, his voices and actions describing the poem more than the unfamiliar words.
The tables were cleared as the band started, everyone wearing a kilt immediately headed for the dance floor with their partner in tow. McGonagall found herself dancing with Remus and six Gryffindors in an eightsome reel, even Lee Jordan's dreadlocks didn't look out of place with him clad in his kilt and waistcoat.
The four champions and their dates formed their own reel and were soon spinning and twirling away, when the band announced the next dance was 'Strip the Willow' the twins shouts of joy could be heard above everyone else. The night had gotten off to a flier and looked all set to continue that way.
The small breaks for some poetry reading were welcome as it gave everyone a chance for a rest and to take on some much needed refreshments. Remus gave a powerful, heartfelt rendition of 'A man's a man for a' that' and had every single person in the hall wondering if Burns was a wizard. Witches, Warlocks and now a poem about equality read by a man who'd been discriminated against his whole life, it was stirring stuff.
The mood immediately lifted again as the band announced the next dance as the 'Gay Gordons'.
At the next break they were standing chatting to her parents when Hermione was sure Harry's name was announced, she turned to her betrothed who handed her a long-stemmed red rose before walking to the stage. Just when she thought Harry couldn't surprise her any more he pulls a stunt like this, her mum raised a questioning eyebrow but she could only shrug, the only one who knew what was happening next was Harry.
He looked so handsome on the stage in his kilt that her heart melted, that was until he began to sing and her whole body turned to mush. In her totally unbiased opinion she thought Harry was utterly brilliant!
O, my luve is like a red, red rose,
That's newly sprung in June.
O, my luve is like a melodie,
That's sweetly play'd in tune.
As fair art thou, my bonie lass,
So deep in luve am I,
And I will luve thee still, my dear,
Till a' the seas gang dry.
Till a' the seas gang dry, my dear,
And the rocks melt wi the sun!
And I will luve thee still, my dear,
While the sands o life shall run.
And fare thee weel, my only luve!
And fare thee weel, a while!
And I will come again, my luve,
Tho it were ten thousand mile!
Hermione slowly walked toward the stage as he finished singing, "Harry that was beautiful!"
"It needed to be, I was singing it for you." As they kissed the entire hall cheered themselves hoarse. This was a night that would be talked about for years to come, and repeated if Minerva McGonagall had anything to do with it.
Albus was left just having to choose someone for the Veela, she was very close to her group but appeared closest to the other champions and Miss Granger. He thought this type of dancing uncouth and not fit for wizarding society, if he didn't do something soon the great hall would end up getting transformed into a discothèque.
-oOoOo-
Igor Karkaroff sat alone on his ship sipping whisky, the vodka available in this country didn't deserve the name and he'd already drank all the supplies he'd brought with him. Being dragged in front of the dark lord would drive anyone to drink.
The strains of 'Auld Lang Syne' filtered down from the castle and alerted him that the Ceilidh was ending. His students would soon be returning and Igor couldn't help but think that his master didn't hand out any cups of kindness.
The task he'd been given would probably see his life ended, if it was successful he would be the prime suspect and rapidly arrested. If it failed then the dark lord would kill him. Igor wasn't aware of the muggle saying 'between a rock and a hard place' but certainly understood the feeling.
The scotch certainly tasted beautiful but that was not what he required tonight, oblivion from his troubles was his aim and for that his normal vodka was decidedly quicker. It was only four weeks to the second task and, barring a miracle, that was his life expectancy. Igor refilled his glass from the almost empty bottle.
Chapter 14
Petunia looked at her bedside clock and couldn't believe the time displayed there. She never slept past first light but the way things had been going lately it was hardly surprising she didn't wake.
After suffering the indignity of having a pest control van parked in their driveway for five consecutive days, clearing out an infestation that just kept returning time and time again. They then had to suffer the humiliating pictures in the local press, featuring the boy and his friends distributing toys at that orphanage. The story that the boy was of disreputable character just didn't hold water any longer.
Petunia was now afraid to show her face anywhere in the street, due to the number of nosey neighbours who wanted to ask her questions she couldn't really answer. She also had to suffer Vernon's constant bitching that they didn't know the boy had money for all those years he was in their care.
A few of the schemes he had thought up for getting his hands on all of the boy's wealth were beginning to scare her. That he could even consider some of those things left her wondering who Vernon Dursley really was.
Something was tugging at the edge of her consciousness and Petunia realised what was bothering her, if that clock was correct there should be daylight inside the bedroom. Half in hope that this was something that could deflect attention away from the Dursleys, but more in terror that this was next on the list of catastrophes to befall her family, Petunia opened the bedroom curtains.
What she saw was nothing, or should that be there was nothing to see, the entire window was black. With shaking hands she opened the window to find a few neighbours already outside staring at their house, she also noticed that their entire front garden was black. Driveway, path, even the grass and shrubs were all jet black.
Petunia walked down the stairs, hoping she was still dreaming rather than being awake and in this nightmare. Through the kitchen and out the black French doors to find a patio, furniture, fence and all greenery had been changed to black. On turning around she could see that every inch of the house was the same, even the windows.
Her once lovely house now looked like a giant lump of coal, it was almost as dark inside as the cupboard under the stairs since all the glass was coloured black as well.
She was standing in her back garden, wearing only her nightgown, with her mouth hanging wide open in shock. A neighbour's voice came from the other side of the fence and confirmed she was awake. "Interesting colour scheme you have there Petunia, though I hate to think what the residents association will make of it."
Petunia Dursley ran back into number four Privet Drive screaming.
-oOoOo-
Gabrielle ran into Harry's dwelling like a mini-whirlwind, whizzing up to everyone for a quick two-kiss greeting, trying to catch up on events using no more than a sentence before whizzing on to the next person. She took longer with Colin though, "Oh I can't thank you enough for the beautiful photographs of our holiday you sent. Mama nearly had a fit at the one of me and Fleur underwater. She couldn't understand why we were smiling and is much happier now about tomorrow, for that alone I thank you."
Apolline was standing being greeted by her hosts while watching her youngest daughter almost glow with exuberance. "Thank you Harry for taking Gabrielle to Australia, she really hasn't stopped talking about it since she came back. Except to continually remind us how long it would be until we came here. She's been counting down the days and has hardly slept from too much excitement. Your group has really made a big impression on both my daughters."
"Thank you Apolline but I must point out that Fleur is a big part of that group and Gabrielle was a delight to have, she's so full of energy it's possible to get tired just watching her."
Claude Delacour was much more observant and straight to the point, "Are you expecting trouble here?"
Hermione understood what he meant and answered honestly. "Tonight this place is going to be very busy, any of our friends who we consider may be taken as a hostage will be spending the night here. They think a detention is a small price to pay for not being at the bottom of the lake tomorrow. Knowing this, Barchoke has increased the goblin guards outside from two to ten. Gabrielle will be perfectly safe here but we would advise not going near the castle until after the second task."
Claude raised his eyebrows, "You really think they'd go that far?"
Harry tried to explain their reasoning, "I don't think there is a 'they' anymore; it's almost exclusively Dumbledore. Madame Maxine seems to be distancing herself from the tournament after the Umbridge debacle of the first task, while Karkaroff can't enter the castle. Barchoke hasn't been consulted and the ministry are sending Arthur Weasley to be their representative and judge, Dumbledore's doing all the organising as far as we can make out. This whole tournament was apparently his baby from the start and, since the four of us are not dancing to his tune, the great man is spitting his dummy out of his pram."
Victor entered with his parents and Fleur, this brought more screams of excitement from Gabrielle as she raced toward her sister, Victor handled the introductions between the Krum and Delacour parents.
The Grangers portkeyed in just as a worried Daphne and Tracy arrived earlier than expected. "Victor, Harry, when we finished potions today Dumbledore asked to speak with Millie for a moment. She told us to go on to lunch and she would catch up, she never did. When she didn't arrive for defence, we told Professor Black and he warned us to get our arses over here. He and Professor Lupin are spreading the word and our friends will all be bailing out the castle first chance they get."
Victor was raging mad, "The old man has gone too far!"
Harry was glad Kalina was here because she was the only one with any chance of calming Victor, he wasn't feeling too calm himself.
She currently had her hand on her son's arm, "Victor, you like this girl?"
It was a testament to how angry Victor was that he gave such an open answer to his mother, "She is a very nice girl who was my date for the dance, I got her flowers for Valentine's Day and now she will find herself at the bottom of the lake. Yes I like Millie and if one hair of her head is harmed…" Victor suddenly had an idea, "Harry, when Cedric gets here we four can go and take her back. The castle will help you, please?"
Harry really wanted to help his friend, "Victor, the four of us with the castle helping could probably achieve anything we wanted, but the old man would just grab another student. While you and I might think this was ok, we both know Millie would wipe the floor with us for allowing someone else to be put down there in her place."
The slight trace of a smile from his friend showed Harry he was right. Millie didn't want to be at the bottom of the lake but her sense of fair play would mean she wouldn't accept anyone else now being put in danger instead of her.
"We will rescue her first! I don't think she'll be too upset at being publicly recognised as the person Victor Krum would miss the most, especially if she gets to awake in your arms tomorrow."
Victor wanted there to be no misunderstandings, "We rescue Millie first?"
Harry nodded, "Unless they somehow get in here to snatch Hermione, Emma or Luna, but that my friend would be a war! It will be Millie first tomorrow, I promise."
Hermione asked, "What are we going to do about Dumbledore Harry? He's getting more and more desperate, desperate is dangerous."
"I think it's time to take Dumbledore down, tomorrow might just be the day for it."
Marko Krum couldn't believe what he was hearing, "Surely the man is too powerful for you to defeat him?"
Harry chuckled, "Oh I think we can be sure he would kick my arse in a duel, what I had in mind was more in line with a public humiliation. Our country believes Dumbledore can do no wrong, destroy that myth and you destroy the man."
The Gryffindor contingent arrived, all the people who were practicing for the Ceilidh were on the needing protection list, of the twenty eight only Justin, Ernie, Theodore and Blaise were not considered at risk. None of the champions could imagine a scenario where Justin Finch-Fletchley would ever be the thing they missed the most. Since their friend Hannah was dating him, not a word was said.
Hannah and Susan were actually last to arrive, Cedric had picked up on what was happening and escorted the girls to their last class of the day, sitting outside the door waiting on them, with his wand ready in his hand.
Remus and Sirius arrived to say that McGonagall was suspicious something was going on while Dumbledore appeared totally unconcerned. Moony informed the Gryffindors that they all had detention and would serve it tonight, here with him.
The resulting cheer had Sirius shaking his head, "These brash Gryffindors, when will they ever learn some subtlety? Miss Bulstrode has a detention for being out of her dorm after curfew, unless she has a very good reason for it. Miss Greengrass and Miss Davis will of course be tucked up in their beds."
The laughter was interrupted by Dobby announcing that dinner was ready. It was quite a group and the table had been expanded to accommodate everyone but Dobby and Winky enjoyed working their socks off. Especially the ones Harry brought his little friend back from Australia.
Kalina watched as her son scowled every time he glanced at the empty seat next to him, she asked Emma to explain why no one sat beside her son despite the room being very busy.
Emma smiled and whispered in her ear, "That's Millie's seat, no one else would dare sit there. The first night we met them she sat across from Victor, but ever since she has sat there."
A small conspiratorial smile crossed Kalina's lips, "We must talk later."
"If it's anything like last time, I won't sleep much tonight anyway. At least it's not bloody dragons this time, though I would be worried sick if Hermione was at the bottom of that lake."
Apolline patted Emma's arm in understanding, "I know just how you feel, my insides turn to ice with the thought that both my daughters could have ended up at the bottom of the lake."
Her youngest daughter chipped in, "I wouldn't be worried, I've seen them underwater and know they would come for me. They'll have Millie free in no time."
This earned Gabrielle a smile from Victor, his only one since hearing Millie was taken to be his hostage.
The Delacour and Krum parents had their own rooms while the Delacour sisters shared, Cedric and Victor were also sharing but the rest of their friends were bunking in makeshift dorms. The guys were in the training room while the girls had the lounge. Remus, Sirius and Dan were keeping guard on the connecting corridor, nothing untoward was going to happen on their watch.
A cloak-wearing Harry was standing behind a seated Dan, who was reading a book to keep himself awake until Sirius took over.
The opportunity for some mischief was just too good to pass up, "You do know wizards can make themselves invisible?"
Dan was out his seat as if he'd received an electric shock, "What the bloody hell!"
Harry couldn't contain his laughter and let the hood fall back, Dan's expression at seeing his head apparently floating was even funnier.
Dan suddenly got serious, "It's a good job I trust you with my daughter Harry, I'd hate to think you were using that to sneak about."
Harry let the cloak fall open so it was slightly less disconcerting for Dan, "I'm using my cloak to 'sneak about' but not in the way you think. I'm heading over to the castle and would prefer not to be seen, I've a feeling the old man is going to pull something tomorrow and I want some insurance. The thought of Victor's fist rearranging his nose is a pleasant one but in reality, outside the castle Dumbledore could take the four of us easy."
Dan was actually embarrassed with his comment, "Sorry son, I know there's far more likelihood of my daughter sneaking into your room. It's just so bloody disheartening to know that, even sitting outside her room with a shotgun, you could waltz right past me and I wouldn't even know. I've had all these scenarios running through my head since she was four, about how I would chase off the boyfriends who weren't worthy of my little princess and you negated them all. I guess what I'm trying to say is that you are more than worthy of her Harry, and I trust you to take care of her."
It was Harry's turn to be embarrassed as his joke had backfired and turned into quite a tender moment. Dan's words meant the world to him, "I think you're wrong Dan, I'll never be worthy of Hermione but I aim to spend my life trying to be. Now I better get out of here before we both end up crying like a couple of girls."
Dan pulled what he could see of Harry into a hug, "That's some cloak son."
The look of pride on his face was unmistakable, "It was my father's, I'll lend it to you some time."
Harry portkeyed to the castle while Dan no longer needed his book to stay awake. His mind was racing with the possible fun he could have using an invisibility cloak, he felt like a kid again as he sat chuckling to himself.
-oOoOo-
Harry was well acquainted with the infirmary so had no trouble making a portkey to take him there, he headed straight for the screened-off area.
There, lying on different beds were four people he immediately recognised, it took him a few minutes to work out what the old man was up to but then it clicked, division.
Ron Weasley was obviously his choice, though anyone who could think he was the thing Harry would miss most would have to be really delusional. Dumbledore's plans for a reconciliation with the prat showed just how much he'd lost touch with reality, either that or being barred from their accommodation had left him blind to what was really happening.
Next to Ron was Cho Chang, again the chances of Cedric and her getting back together were non-existent. Dumbledore seemed determined to renew old alliances with the hope that it would wreck the champion's group. Introducing Ron and Cho with their glaring jealousy just might, but only in the old goat's mind was that ever going to happen.
Roger Davies was next and had originally confused Harry until he vaguely remembered Fleur having one dance with him at the Ceilidh, this told Harry two things. That Madame Maxine had refused any of her student's participation in this task and Dumbledore was indeed getting desperate.
He also wondered if this was the manipulator's attempts to end the rift between Ravenclaw and the other three houses, since the champions had no contact with them it was strange that two members of that house found themselves as the things missed most. He doubted Fleur could even remember Roger's name.
The last bed was the reason Harry was here, Dumbledore had actually got something right. Millicent Bulstrode was like a flower, given the nourishment of friendship she had bloomed. She would never be a classic beauty but her wonderful personality could fill a room with warmth, laughter and love. Like his Hermione, she was a rare diamond that sparkled in the appropriate lighting.
By anyone's definition Fleur Delacour was a stunningly beautiful young woman, stand Hermione next to her and Harry's eyes wouldn't even see Fleur. Victor wasn't quite there yet but just by him showing an interest in her was enough to allow Millie to shine brightly. Her light attracting the Bulgarian like a moth to a flame.
Harry bent and kissed Millie's cheek before whispering in her ear, "I promise we will come for you Millie, you will awake in the arms of your prince."
He then did what he came for and cast monitor and tracking charms on Millie. Sal hissed that he was refusing an opportunity here and, after considering his words, Harry agreed. Harry cast the same charms on the other three hostages before leaving to carry out the rest of his business.
-oOoOo-
They made their way down to the lake as a group, Cedric's parents were there to wish them all luck and be introduced to Fleur and Victor's parents. Amos was attending as a parent, being minister with a son as champion was why Arthur represented the ministry today.
There were hugs and kisses all around with the girls making sure Victor wasn't left out. They were aware the one he wanted to be doing that with was at the bottom of the lake but that didn't mean they couldn't show him their support.
Kalina couldn't help but smile, "Victor's main purpose in coming here was to make friends, it would seem that he has achieved that."
The three mothers had all had a good gossip last night and were quickly becoming friends. Apolline agreed, "Fleur wished for the same but didn't hold out much hope, watching my daughters in that company last night was a dream come true for me. It is very difficult for a Veela to be recognised for herself yet they all just see Fleur and Gabrielle."
Emma partially understood, "I think it all stems from Harry's desire to be treated as 'just Harry'. If they can do that for him then a famous Quidditch player or a Veela is not such a great stretch."
Hermione had both arms around Harry and didn't want to let go, "I have my basilisk suit on under this robe, are you sure I can't come with you?"
"Sorry love, you know that's not possible. We'll be taking no chances down there and be back shortly." A final kiss and she headed off to join her mum.
The four champions, accompanied by Luna and Colin, made their way to the floating dock where Dumbledore awaited them.
Albus raised his eyebrow in question at the two youngsters who flashed their press credentials at him, he nodded and continued. "There are four people at the bottom of the lake awaiting rescue by the champions, Ronald Weasley, Cho Chang, Roger Davies and Millicent Bulstrode to be precise. They are all placed at various locations throughout the merpeople's village and you will have one hour to rescue your hostage." Albus couldn't quite hide the little smirk, consigning the hostages to different locations would force the champions to split-up.
Cedric soon wiped the smile off his face, "Can I ask just who I'm supposed to save?"
Dumbledore had his 'talking to petulant child' voice cranked up to the maximum, "Why Mr Diggory, I thought that would be obvious? Weren't you romantically involved with Miss Chang?"
"Just shows we can all make mistakes, I wouldn't lift a finger to help that jealous, bullying little bitch!"
Fleur butted-in, "Excuse me, who is Roger Davies? Do you have a picture so I may recognise him?"
Harry had to say something as Victor appeared ready to attack Dumbledore. "But past an hour – the prospect's black. Too late, it's gone, it won't come back. So this is my chance to finally see the back of that jealous git Ron or just more empty words spouted by a man who should have retired years ago?"
The smirk was long gone from Dumbledore's face and replaced with a scowl that almost matched the one Victor was aiming in his direction. Harry had every intention of ruining the old git's day, he cast a sonorus on himself, "Headmistress McGonagall, I need to speak with you right away."
This silenced everyone in the stands, summoning McGonagall as if she was some errant first year was a sure fire way to unleash that famous Scottish temper.
She apparated directly on to the dock, "What can I do for you Mr Potter?" Minerva figured Harry was going for a big play here and had already cast sonorus on herself.
Harry's voice could easily be heard by the entire crowd, who were now eagerly awaiting the unexpected pre-task entertainment, "Headmistress McGonagall, there are currently four Hogwarts students unconscious and held hostage at the bottom of the lake. Did you give permission for this use of students entrusted into your care?"
The sonorus was superfluous as mount Minerva's eruptions would probably be heard without it. "No I bloody didn't" she whirled on Dumbledore, "What the hell do you think you're playing at, putting MY students at risk?"
"The students are in no danger…"
Harry's voice boomed out over the lake, "You say they are in no danger, forgive me if I don't believe the man who employed Voldemort to teach us. Did you enquire with the Weasleys, Changs, Davies's or Bulstrodes if it was ok for you to use their children in this manner? Unconscious and hidden at the bottom of the lake in the hope we'll risk our lives to rescue them."
Dumbledore looked shocked, "What do you mean? You have to rescue them. That's what all these people are here to watch!"
"Well then they are going to be disappointed. The rules say we must take part, we intend to do that. It's not like the spectators actually paid to get in here."
Harry turned to a still fuming McGonagall, "Headmistress, all our friends slept in my accommodation last night, except one. We suspect that Dumbledore here abducted Millie after her potions lesson, she knew she was going to be a target and swore she wouldn't go voluntary. If that is the case, then I'm afraid Albus here has spent his last night in Hogwarts. He may not take these students' safety seriously but I do."
"Mr Potter, if I discover ANY of my students were abducted as you describe I shall be contacting the aurors. I'm afraid it would be pointless banning him from the castle as I intend to sack him here and now for endangering students."
Dumbledore tried to bluster, "I have the authority to take hostages under the rules of the tri-wizard tournament…"
Smack, for a small woman of ample build, Molly Weasley was a deceptively quick mover. Years of keeping Fred and George under control must have sharpened her reflexes. She and Arthur had apparated onto the dock and her hand had connected with Dumbledore's cheek before he could do anything about it.
"How dare you use one of my children for this, Ron was nearly killed in first year, Ginny had to be saved by Harry the next. Dementors nearly had Ron again in his third year and now you place him, unconscious and defenceless, at the bottom of the lake. Just who the hell do you think you are? What gives you the right to treat my children in this manner? If you're still in this castle after today, none of my children will be!"
Normally Arthur would be trying to calm Molly down but today he appeared ready to join her in beating-up Albus. Another three sets of parents were rushing to the scene with seemingly the same intent.
Minerva was quick to assure all the parents that Dumbledore had spent his last day working in Hogwarts.
Molly then spoke to Harry, "I know you haven't been friends since this arse Dumbledore started the tournament but I'm begging you Harry to save my boy."
Harry hated doing this but had no other option. "Mrs Weasley, Ginny and the twins stayed with me last night for protection from Dumbledore, I never figured Ron was in any danger. He's scattered the hostages all over the village in the attempt to force the champions to split up, it's too dangerous so we won't do that and I have already promised to save our friend. I'm sorry but you are just going to have to hope Dumbledore's promise that they are in no danger hold true."
Victor approached Graham and Glenda Bulstrode and gave a short bow, "Mr and Mrs Bulstrode, I apologise that your daughter's involvement with me has seen her in this predicament. I swear to you though that we will get her back and she had better be unharmed or there will be repercussions." His glance at Albus left no doubt who his anger was directed at.
Glenda was well aware of her daughter's infatuation with this young wizard, from his stance and body language it wasn't difficult to see he cared for Millie too. "Thank you for that, please don't blame yourself as we all know who is responsible. I will feel much happier with my daughter in your safe hands than anywhere near this moron."
With another polite bow Victor made his way back to the other champions, pulling his robe off as he went.
McGonagall went spare as Luna and Colin then revealed their basilisk suits, "Mr Potter, I cannot allow these children to accompany you. They are also in my care, if I didn't stop them that would make me as bad as that old arse Dumbledore."
"Headmistress, both Colin and Luna have press credentials that allow them to accompany us. More importantly for you, they also have parental consent letters. We practiced relentlessly in the Pacific Ocean and both are more than qualified to do this, otherwise they would be sitting in the stands like the reporters from the Prophet."
He handed over the letters and cancelled the sonorus charm, "Guys I have a few surprises for you." Placing two fingers in his mouth he blasted out an ear-piercing whistle.
Three Hogwarts boats came zooming out the cave they were usually stored in and stopped at the dock in front of the astonished group, "Victor and me in the first one, Fleur and Colin next with Cedric and Luna in number three."
They climbed into the boats and used banishing charms to get under way, they heard Luna ask, "Eh Harry, what is all this?"
The rest them noticed the items in the boats, "Blankets and flasks of hot cocoa, a little more to the left guys."
It was Victor's turn to ask, "How do you know to go to the left?"
"Because I have a tracking charm on Millie, the monitoring charm indicates she's in some kind of enchanted sleep that will be broken when she reaches the surface." The others were looking at Harry with expressions of awe on their faces, "What? I promised Victor we would get her and I had a sneaky suspicion the old man was up to something. I also promised Millie she would wake up in the arms of her prince! You better not make a liar out of me Mr Krum."
Victor had his hand on Harry's shoulder as he struggled for the words. "Cedric said after seeing the basilisk you should just be handed the cup, I agree but for a different reason. Thank you for this Harry."
When Harry called stop, they circled the boats and tied them together before diving into the freezing water. Their suits and gillyweed spared them the worst of it as they headed straight down, Harry in front as his tracking charm led them right to Millie.
The three mermen on guard were expecting one wizard, not a group of six to descend directly on top of them. They were waving their tridents threateningly until Colin started taking pictures, the light startled them and they attacked straight into a barrage of spells. The three mermen were soon lying there unconscious as Victor drew his goblin-made knife, making short work of Millie's bindings.
The commotion was attracting lots of attention and they had to get out of there fast, Victor had Millie in his arms and heading for the surface as the rest of them provided cover.
Harry had to grab Colin by the neck of the suit and drag him upward, the boy was so busy taking photos he forgot the people swimming toward him with the tridents weren't exactly being friendly toward wizards.
The flashes from Colin's camera combined with the spells raining down on them soon discouraged even the most ferocious mermen. Harry thought that Fleur and Cedric nailing the two who were in the lead might also had something to do with them giving up the chase, the group could now see the outlines of the boats above them.
When Millie's head broke the surface she was instantly awake but completely disorientated, looking back down into the water she could see whose arms were around her. Millie didn't hesitate but plunged her head back under to kiss Victor.
Harry watched, unsure whether to give Victor the antidote or offer Millie gillyweed so they could continue without the need to breathe, common sense won though as they needed to get into the boats.
Millie had been hit with several drying charms, had a blanket wrapped around her and a cup of hot cocoa in hand, but it was Victor's arm around her waist that provided the most comfort.
"I'm sorry guys, I figured why he wanted me to stay and was all set to say no but never got the chance. The next think I remember was waking up in Victor's arms." She couldn't help but smile at that memory.
Colin meanwhile was being berated by Luna, "What the hell were you playing at down there?"
"I got some fantastic shots, just wait till you see them…"
"Never mind the shots, you almost got yourself skewered! Those mermen weren't playing around, no picture is worth a trident in the gut."
A sheepish Colin was forced to agree but knew he was forgiven when Luna handed him a mug of cocoa. Harry, Cedric and Fleur had them heading back toward the dock.
Harry had just stepped out the boat when he had his arms full of Hermione, Cedric was left to offer an explanation to the worried parents. "I'm sorry but the merpeople attacked us as soon as we rescued Millie, if we didn't have the boats we would need to have fought them all the way to the shore."
All eyes switched to Dumbledore, "The merpeople were instructed only to intervene if you were assisting each other with your task."
Victor's angry eyes bored right through Dumbledore, "And who gave them that instruction?"
"I did! If you would only do what you were supposed to do then we wouldn't be having these problems…"
Harry interrupted, "Blaming everyone else for your mistakes again, not going to work this time old man. You will never set foot in Hogwarts again. Headmistress contact the aurors please, Millie wasn't even asked to participate."
They left the dock, being joined by friends and family as they made their way back to the cube.
Igor saw his master's plan go up in smoke and decided to make a run for it, his life was now forfeit with the dark lord. The dark lord accepted no excuses, even though he'd done exactly as asked and performed his task perfectly, Igor was under no illusion that anything other than death awaited him there.
When the failed plan was discovered, the ministry would also be hunting him within the hour. It was time to get the hell out of here.
He had his stuff already packed so his goals were to get on board his ship, then apparate away from here. That was as far as his planning went for now.
It was a dejected Dumbledore who waited at the docks for the merpeople to return the abandoned hostages when the time limit expired. Molly Weasley appeared on the verge of smacking him again as the clock counted down, Albus couldn't understand where it all went wrong.
How could they put their own group's safety over that of the hostages he'd chosen for them? He couldn't help but think had he been allowed to place Miss Granger down there, Harry would have battled the entire village. Albus didn't know his day was about to get a whole lot worse.
-oOoOo-
Graham and Glenda Bulstrode now understood some of the changes in their daughter, it was impossible to be in this company and not change. From the minister of magic to the muggle parents of Harry's betrothed, international Quidditch star to goblin banker. All life was here and mixing as if it was a normal, everyday occurrence. Glenda was looking on as her daughter was surrounded by friends, all asking how she was and congratulating her for getting out of there. Not once did she let go of Victor's arm and the young man didn't appear to mind in the slightest.
She felt a woman appear at her side, "My son usually has better manners than this regarding introductions but I think his mind is on other things at the moment. Hi, I'm Kalina Krum. Our children appear to be getting on well together, don't you think?"
Harry and Hermione were arm in arm and heading toward their bedrooms with the intention to change out of their basilisk suits when he seemed to stumble, the hissing of his ring was accompanied by some unaccustomed language. "That stupid old whiskered wanker couldn't even do that right! Molly will tear his arms and legs off for this."
All eyes were now on Harry but it was to the three redheads he directed his attention, "Ron's just been taken away from Hogwarts by portkey, he's currently scared shitless and in a lot of pain. I think Voldemort sprung his trap and missed!"