Capítulo 1720: 8 - ||

Right, lesson plans. First years smooth sailing. I know what I want out of them it's worked well so far every time.

Second Years that's where it becomes more personalized with how to teach each class. They from what I remember of their first year, needed to improve on spell casting.

Third Years I needed to personalize for my two classes I ended up having. Half of them needed to work on theory and dark creatures. The other half the opposite.

It was probably my most split class as far as house learning was concerned.

Fourth Years this was the year where they started learning about the unforgivables. As fake Moody taught.

I did like the ideas behind the way he taught even as a fake teacher. The idea to show the impact behind each of the curses was a good reality for students.

However I don't think I needed to test it on a spider. Instead I wanted to go more muggle minded about it. Simulation and using their own imaginations against them.

Fifth Years needed their OWL's. I made sure to get them used to studying with theory work.

Sixth Years, I actually had a class this time. I trusted their work and trusted them to know how to self study next year would be the NEWT.

Seventh Years didn't exist for me. That was free time for me. That was until later.

On the first day of school proper. There was a minor incident. While we had put third year behind us as far as dementors it seemed that open season was back on for Draco and Slytherin.

I don't know what started it, I had hoped that after last year Draco would keep himself in line. What I didn't account for was the whole of summer break to reform his attitude.

Whatever had caused it I had to step in. Draco had thrown a curse at Harry. I wasn't sure what I only arrived in time to see the attempt.

I threw up a shield charm to stop the hex. Then disarmed Draco. "What on earth do you think you are doing Mr. Malfoy!"

"He said-" Draco tried.

"I don't care what he said, nothing he said should lead you to use a wand."

"You're always taking his side!" Draco cried.

"This isn't about sides, this is about you breaking the rules and throwing hexes and curses around." I put emotion into my voice, "Minus 20 points from Slytherin, now go and see Professor Snape about going to detention."

I'd know if he didn't. I then heatedly rushed out of the hallway and went to my classroom. I passed by McGonagall.

Two days after that was my first fourth year class. I had everything planned out I had gotten permission to do most of what I said would happen.

There was a bit extra. That I think would help solidify the lesson. I started out the lesson by telling the class about the Unforgivables.

"Which of you knows what the Unforgivable Curses are?" The layout of my classroom had to be changed for this lesson.

I put everyone's desk in a circle around the room facing the middle. With me standing in the center speaking outward to them.

Hermione raised her hand. "They are three curses that can lead to Azkaban just by using them."

"A nice solid textbook answer Ms. Granger." I praised, "1 point to Gryffindor."

Hermione seemed shocked that I'd award her 1 point. It was lost on me if she was shocked I gave her a point at all or that I'd bother with just giving one.

"What are their names, one at a time." Only Hermione raised her hand.

"Fine, if only one of you wants to volunteer an answer I'll just have to ask one of you by my choice."

I walked in the circle looking for those hints of weakness. Well not really but I made it seem like I was. I then stepped in front of Ron.

"Mr. Weasley, name one curse of the three."

"Um, the Imperius Curse?" Ron asked his answer.

"Is that a question?"

"The Imperius Curse, Professor."

"Good come to the center with me." Ron looked from Harry to Hermione who were on completely separate sides of the room.

He then got up slowly from his desk and walked to the center of the room. I conjured a glass pitcher. Then filled it with water. I then cast a compulsion charm.

Ron slowly made his way to the pitcher and started drinking. "What he's going through now isn't even the Imperius Curse." I explained, "What's going on is the stepping stone."

I then ended it. Ron looked at the pitcher in his hand and set it down. "You can return to your desk."

He did so. "What that was, was a compulsion charm a mere suggestion for the person to react to a specific object or action to take."

I then summoned a book from one of my shelves and did the same as the pitcher. "It is easier to resist than the Imperius Curse."

I pointed a Seamus, "Come on up here." He followed my instructions and when he got to the book though a bit sweaty he stood right where he was.

"This is what I would say, a third of what the Imperius Curse can hold over a person." I then waved him to sit back down, "Next curse."

"The Cruciatus Curse." Neville said in his softer voice.

"The torture curse." I nodded. I then walked up to my magical record player and hesitated, "For those of you with a weaker disposition I will ask that you either cover your ears or leave the room."

No one moved a muscle, "Remember if this becomes too much, you can leave at any time." I then put the needle on.

It was a custom record. While fake it was extremely realistic. I had recorded the sound of a pig squealing. I remember it being one of the most haunting sounds.

It wasn't of a pig being tortured just the natural squeal they made with a bit of audio tweaking.

"This is the sound of a pig being hit with the Cruciatus, I have obtained this through some contacts with the Ministry."

I pulled the needle off after it seemed to be really getting to the students. I let the silence sink in. They all needed a seconds rest. "The final curse if you will?"

"The Killing Curse." Harry had spoken up.

"Yes, identified by its green light it's killed every single living thing that it's come in contact with." I paced around in the circle, "That is except for one person."

I walked up to Harry I bent over so I was looking at him in the eyes, "And even he hasn't not suffered because of this curse."

"Now, there will be no essays or homework as I feel as though assigning something after today would lessen the impact of what I've taught you today." I looked around the circle of the teenagers in my classroom, "You are all dismissed."

As the students filed out Harry stayed in his desk, he nodded at Hermione and Ron and they too left the class.

"I need to speak with you Professor."

"Yes, Harry?"

"I need to talk with you about what happened before we came to school, on the Hogwarts express."

"I see." I grabbed a chair from one of the desks and turned it around to sit in front of Harry.

"I don't know what happened, but whatever you said clearly affected her." He looked around the room as if searching, "I think she's moved onto something else but I hope you don't make her cry like that again or we will have major problems."

"I feel as though that is a fair warning, I promise to try and not cause a problem involving that scenario again."

"I suppose that the best I can get, thank you for your time Professor." He then got up from his desk and left the classroom.

Then it was October. I had seen Hermione with her SPEW badge. She sure had chosen a bad acronym to go with.

I understand that it was for house-elf welfare, but I didn't want to get involved. After my last involvement I thought I'd let the boys handle this situation.

During one of my fourth year classes I had put each of my students under the Imperius with permission. As I had done every year.

It was one of the lessons I thought would be most efficient to understanding the curse.

While other teachers sans Snape had protested my request Dumbledore seemed fine with it.

From then on it became part of my curriculum for the fourth years. This year was no exception.

I think in the past only Harry could break out, however this time Ron, Seamus, Harry, Draco, and Blaise were able to break out of the Imperius within their year.

I didn't make them jump or whatever. All I did was make them do laps around the room. Hoping that even if it was forced cardio would do them good.

Filch posted the sign for the students on when the other students would be arriving. The 30th of October. One day before the selection. One day before Halloween.

I pointed out the Halloween curse to Severus. After explaining the pattern he seemed to look a bit frazzled. Well Snape frazzled.

It also told the students they were going to get out of classes early to greet the schools. I think they latched onto that bit the most.

It also meant that we had to bring our best dick measuring items out. We brought out the silk banners, cleaner more sleek tablecloths for each house table.

The works. Teachers brought out their classier robes. I stuck with my black on black look.

If I'm honest I made my hair a Pixie cut and god clashing white cuff-links. I kept my hair a vibrant pink though.

Then the day of the 30th came. Everyone had classes in the day but near the afternoon classes cut and everyone was allowed to get ready.

Then assemble in the Great Hall after. It was nighttime when the first school came. I knew them as the Beauxbatons school, when I saw the abraxan.

The brighter colored version of the thestral I rode in on at the start of the year. While the french school was making their landing out of the water came Durmstrang's ship.

It rose up out of the water like a submarine that missed the point. I guess with magic it didn't exactly matter.

The Beauxbatons students made their way into the Great Hall. Knowing Fleur would be among them and maybe other possible Veela I prepared myself.

I think I made a noise because Snape looked at me like I had. Otherwise I stayed as professional as possible.

Madame Maxime flanked her students. She stood head and shoulders above the rest of them literally.

Dumbledore greeted her with the proper respect another head of a school should get. I didn't know which one was Fleur but I had a guess with how my eyes wanted to drift.

I hit the back of my fist into my hip to concentrate. Snape noticed this clearly annoyed he looked where I was trying my best to avoid looking then back to me.

That smug shit grinned. I would have snarked at him if I wasn't busy concentrating. I also saw now why thralls were such a big deal.

It was a constant woosh. Is the way I'd describe it. Like waves. I hoped I'd build an immunity to it soon.

The Beauxbatons students then were seated at the Ravenclaw table with the same blue as their uniform. Pretty much.

Then came the Durmstrang students. The Bulgarians walked tall and proud. Igor Karkaroff led them into the room.

Along with a hot off catching the snitch in the world cup Viktor Krum. You could tell the quidditch fans in the room when he came in. Their eyes seemed to light up.

Dumbledore and Karkaroff greeted each other in what seemed to be a friendly manner. It was Dumbledore after all.

Then the Durmstrang students went and sat down at the Slytherin table. Dumbledore then began the Welcoming Feast.

Same as the Halloween feast but a day before and less spooky. Then in came Bagman and Crouch.

Having already introduced them at the beginning of the year he gave the school their second role as judges. The Head of each school would also be a judge.

Dumbledore then revealed how each champion would be chosen. The Goblet of Fire trademark and all that.

He gave instructions for how someone could enter themselves. It took a piece of paper with a name. Not at all filled with loopholes.

The goblet would then pick the best suited name dropped in. I didn't exactly understand how it worked or determined, but it was an ancient magic and all that.

He then went on to say that the champions would be chosen tomorrow. So not a lot of time to get names in really.

Then the feast ended. As everyone was filing out to their dorms or travel dorms in the visitors case.

Dumbledore then brought out the goblet and placed the age line around the ring itself.

I made my way back to my chambers where I spent the night staring at the Marauders Map. Which I had kept from last year.

At some point I'd return it to Harry but for now it was of more use to me than to him. During the night I saw Karkaroff go into the great hall.

I saw Crouch watching from outside. As Karkaroff made his way in. It seemed I wasn't the only one keeping an eye on things.

Crouch followed him in I didn't remember an interaction with the two. Then again Harry wasn't watching the map for things like this.I don't think so at least.

Then I saw Karkaroff with speed leave the Great Hall. I guess it was an argument.Crouch snooped a bit before heading out.

That's when I saw a second Crouch on the map. He was coming from the front of the school.

He didn't go into the Great Hall though. So that had to be the Sr.Crouch.

Which meant whoever interacted with Karkaroff was the fake. I just needed the identity of the person who Karkaroff got into a standoff with.

I closed the Map. It was a shame for Harry that he'd have to compete. He had both me and Crouch Jr. watching his back though he'd be fine.

The next day before the names were selected I watched as Fred and Geroge tried to get their names into the Goblet of Fire. They tried using an aging potion.

It didn't work. As predicted. Well it's not hard to predict when it already happened just not here.

Then Karkaroff came in with Krum. I was confused as to why Karkaroff had come in twice.

I thought he'd submitted Krum's name. I guess he just went in there to make sure Krum was picked for Durmstrang.

Some students from Hogwarts put their names in as well. Cedric I knew would be selected in that group of people.

Then came the Beauxbatons students. Fleur Delacour was among them. I found it marginally easier to shake off her allure.

A few boys from Beauxbatons entered, as well as some girls I didn't know them. I knew they wouldn't be picked sadly for them or maybe not so sadly with how this might have turned out.

Night came and everyone was gathered in the Great Hall. We had our Halloween Feast but once again it wasn't as spooky as other years.

It was just like the Welcoming Feast really. Then after all the food and tableware was put away we waited for the selection to begin.

Dumbleore came out and quieted everyone. He announced it was time to start the champion selection. The fire spat out Viktor Krum's name for Durmstrang first.

He was met with great applause from Durmstrang and polite ones from the rest of the schools. Except for maybe the quidditch fans they might have cheered just as loud.

The Beauxbatons' Champion name came out of the fire next was Fleur Delacour. A few of the Beauxbatons students cried at not being selected. She still received a smattering of applause

She passed right by me on her way out and it only took a couple fist contractions to keep my attention on the proceedings.

Cedric was selected for our champion, the king of Hufflepuff and one of my sixth years.

Dumbledore went on to ask the other schools to support their champions even if they weren't picked themselves.

Then the Goblet of Fire started up again. Out shot another piece of paper. Dumbledore read it aloud for the Great Hall.

With the same voice of announcing the champions he spoke the name Harry Potter. There was a loud silence. Harry was shoved forward by Hermione.

He made his way past me into the next chamber I made sure to pat him on the back.

After the whispering started I slipped out after Harry. Leaving the rest of the people in the Great Hall.

I heard the tail end of the champions asking why Harry was there. I then made my way in before the adults behind me could come in.

"Harry come over here." I requested.

"I didn't put my name in." Harry told me after standing beside me.

Then the other teachers, headmasters, and Ministry workers came in after me. Karkaroff demanding to know there was a fourth champion.

Madame Maxime asked how Hogwarts had gotten two champions and accused Dumbledore of cheating. She also said his name wrong. I think on purpose.

Dumbledore then asked Harry if he put his name in. It definitely wasn't a yelling moment thank goodness.

Harry replied that he hadn't and that he hadn't gotten anyone else to put his name in the Goblet either.

That's when I spoke up. "I find it strange, that we're all questioning if he did it when the reality is an ancient artifact only meant to pick three champions went and chose a fourth."

Bagman then agreed, "It is strange that we have a fourth champion, someone must have been mighty powerful to get that to work."

Snape then spoke to me seemingly ignoring the rest of the room, "You're right Halloween is cursed." Wow this seemed off about Snape. I'd play along though.

"A troll first year." I counted off, "Which with the help of Harry and Ron distracting it I was able to incapacitate."

"The basilisk which you now morbidly wear as a coat." He named next, "You really need to get that fetish of yours checked on." There was a sputtering from Harry next to me.

"Quiet you, Harry also helped with the basilisk without him we never would have found the overgrown snake to kill it." A sharp inhale from the other champions.

"Then there were the dementors, where he went and cast a full non corporeal patronus" Snape rolled his eyes. More shocked noises from the champions.

"I taught him myself." I stood proudly, "Pretty sure he also rode a hippogriff that year."

"Is that what inspired you with the thestral this year?" Snape asked slightly amused.

"I thought it might be fun."

"What are you two talking about?" Fleur said with a bit of an accent, "I do not understand, should we not be talking about ze tournament?"

"Uh…" I stumbled, "we're just talking about how Harry here always seems to have the worst luck when it comes to today."

"He is champion then?" Krum asked, "Seeming to put the pieces together."

"The Goblet of Fire has named him champion." Luddo spoke, "He can't not compete or his magic will be stripped of him by the goblet."

"Can we not just end the tournament here saying whoever won and start a new one, without Harry?" I asked the head of magical games.

"I'm afraid we cannot as we need to do three tasks, and it won't relight until it's time for the next tournament." Bagman explained.

Going along with my train of thought Harry piped in, "What about three simple tasks so I can just get out."

"To take away Krum's great chance at victory, I think not." Karkaroff spoke.

"Then the boy must compete, whether he wants to or not." Snape looked down at Harry.

Harry seemed confused. Bet he was wondering why Snape wasn't blaming Harry. It was clearly thanks to my planting of the curse of Harryween.

"Well congrats Harry, someone else wants you dead." I patted him on the head. He knocked off my hand.

"I wish people would stop doing that." he snarked.

"That's it Harry, we laugh in the face of death." I chuckled.

"Why do you say it like it is a thing that happens all the time?" The French Veela asked us both.

"Cause it does happen all the time." We both replied.

"I need to stop being around you, Professor." Harry complained.

"If that happened you'd be dead." I teased.

"I would have found a way, you just make things so much easier." You don't know how right you are kid. Thank goodness.

Crouch then spoke to the champions, "The first task will take place on the 24th of November be prepared, you will not be allowed help from anyone else."

I coughed which sounded a lot like 'bullshit'. "That's some cough." Snape commented.

"After the first task is completed you will be getting hints of the second task." Crouch continued, "All of you will be exempt from exams because of the tournament."

"Just what Potter needs, more holes in his education." Snape dryly spoke to me.

"Well I know who's class I'm skipping." Harry muttered from next to me. At least Harry is in a bit of a better mood.

Everyone then started leaving I kept Harry where he was with my hand on his shoulder.

No one else seemed to mind but Cedric looked like he'd be waiting outside to talk to Harry. Probably to talk about all the thing Harry dealt with.

If the noises he made were any indication of his curiosity. "Harry, while I'm not allowed to help you I will just say a few things."

"Yes Professor?"

"Charlie has come back for a reason, if you remember his job that should come easier to you."

"Do you mean Dragons?" Harry's eyes widened with a bit of fear.

"I can't confirm or deny, or tell you who to tell that to."

"So tell Cedric?"

"It's not my information to share, it's in your hands."

"So tell the other champions too."

"Why Harry you seem downright stubborn in wanting to cause chaos for this tournament." I shook my head in animated disappointment, "I guess there's not stopping you out ya go."

I shoved him forward to the waiting Cedric Diggory. Since I had time tonight there was something else I needed to do.

Little Hangleton was a quiet place. From most ends of the town you could see the church. Which meant you could also see the graveyard.

After unlocking the rusty gates with a spell I quietly made my way to the Riddle grave-site.

Most of the graves were uncared for and disgusting. However one grave stood out and above the rest.

A stone statue stood up out of the ground. An angel holding a scythe in a grim reaper like fashion. I cleaned up the moss covering the names said a quick apology to the air.

Then started transfiguring. By the time I reached the coffin not much time had passed.

It seems they were quick to bury the Riddles here. I looked at the bones of Voldemort's father. With another apology I vanished all the bones there.

After that was done I replaced the dirt. Snuck back out of the graveyard and with a crack made my way out of that dreary little village.

November was strange. That was the air after Harry's name had been announced. There was a big divide in the school. Hell even the other schools seemed to have one.

I guess when you put over the fact that Harry was clearly set up to die, which was the case for most years. People really felt bad for the teenager.

The Champions of each school seemed to be on the Harry defense squad. Which meant those closest to the champions agreed.

However those who were only there to support their champion, or try to get selected for the tournament did not hide their disdain.

Hogwarts splits were even stranger. With Gryffindor celebrating Harry, except for noticeably Ron. Who got even worse after seeing Krum even defend Harry once.

Throw in the beautiful Veela and Ron's jealousy was plain for most people to see. He like most people are only human and could sometimes be a slave to their emotions.

The Ravenclaws were split but a larger chunk didn't seem to care one way or the other.

While not big they were upperclassmen. So they were a loud and effective group to have.

Hufflepuff for the first time was a complete mess. Cedric supporters both wanted to be angry at Harry. However with Cedric's complete defence of Harry.

I'd hope so if Harry really did tell him about the dragons. The Hufflepuffs seemed to split off into groups into factions.

Some hated Harry but supported Cedric. Some just wanted both to win. Another faction hated Harry for taking away the spotlight from Hufflepuff and Cedric for defending him.

Slytherin seemed to bathe in the chaos of it all. Draco thrived. While I'm sure he didn't care about Cedric.

Another reason to get people riled up about Harry was just what he wanted. So he did that and milked it. He sold badges.

I don't know if he made them. That seemed like an upperclassmen's work. With the badges it really showed the numbers of anti-Harry or more pro-Cedric students.

Another reason why November and I guess the rest of the school year would be strange because of Hogwarts hosting the schools.

The sixth and seventh years that had come over had to be taught. Turns out the traveling accommodations were mainly dorm rooms.

So Hogwarts took over with teaching. With the exception of my class. It seems that Durmstrang wanted to self teach their Dark Arts class. In their accommodations.

They had their secrets they wanted to be kept a secret. So really I just got Sixth and Seventh years from Beauxbatons.

Mainly Seventh, because of the age limit when it came to the tournament. All of this was unaccounted for.

As Dumbledore didn't tell the teachers until the day before they arrived. So that's what I meant when I said I had free time for my Seventh year class until later.

This was that later. So instead of a relaxing period. I had to teach. Oh but that wouldn't be as simple as teaching. No, no.

Beauxbatons was a French school. As is known. What needs to be made clear is the fact that most of them speak French.

Which meant that I had to work with someone that could speak English. I think it's seen where this is going.

Instead of just having to teach I got a translator in the form of Fleur Delacour. Thankfully it was still their final year or preparation for their final year.

So not much was needed to be taught in fact Hogwarts was a bit behind the Beauxbatons education when it came to defense.

Aside from the fact I taught the Patronus spell earlier. I'm sure their school didn't have a curse placed on them for centuries.

After one of my first classes with the Seventh Year Beauxbatons students. I don't actually know if they have seven years. I just knew that this was their last year.

Right, after class with the french students I had my first real one on one interaction with Fleur Delacour, the veela champion.

"You are a metamorphmagus, non?" Fleur asked after staying behind.

"...uh, yeah." I shifted my features a bit and changed my hair to a bright white.

"Incroyable, zere are not many like you around."

"I suppose not." I scratched my cheek.

"Do you find it hard?" Fleur asked, "Being one of very few?"

"Not really, everyone has just treated me like...well normal for the most part."

"For ze most part?" she tilted her head.

"Well once in awhile you'd get people who wanted me to morph like I was performing tricks." I laughed, "I took that in stride though, it was mainly other students that were impressed."

"'ave you ever been asked to change into somezing you did not want to or been asked by ozres to stop using your gift?"

"Well I've been asked to stop pranking others, but in general I've not been asked to stop using my born powers no."

"Zen you are lucky." She sighed, "Do you know anyzing about Veela?"

"I have only a basic knowledge, so I would say some things but I'm no expert."

"I 'ave been asked many times to stop using my gift, zey wanted me to stop 'stealing' zeir men."

"That sounds terrible, I can guess why you've asked about having to shift for others, it must be hard to have any kind of relationship if people think you are using your powers."

"Oui, also I am sure you know zis but when we date someone we become unsure if it is us zey like or it is just our gift."

"I'll have to take your word for it, I've never dated anyone."

"Mon dieu non, 'ow can zat be?"

"Well in school I kept mainly to myself, and well as a teacher you don't find the time to date."

"I find it 'ard to believe you were timide as a student, you were so entertaining in your lessons."

"It's true, you should ask some of the people I went to school with." I laughed, "They said I was completely different when I last saw them."

"Is zis ze friend 'arry told me about wiz ze dragons?"

"He really did tell all the champions that selfless fool." I laughed shaking my head.

"Oui, 'e really is a sweet boy." She then looked behind me, "Is zat it then?"

I turned around to look where she was. "Ah, Jörmungandr."

"Ze world serpent?" She laughed.

"Hey don't laugh, I named him after a pet I used to have."

"Oh, I am sorry." She looked apologetic.

"Ah, I get it." I confessed, "It wasn't terribly original, but I felt it was a fitting to honor my pet so I reused it."

"So 'ow did you defeat it?"

"Well, it was both really easy and really hard you see it started when…" We pretty much talked about the chamber.

She was shocked in the right moments and laughed at my dumb jokes thrown in. I think she had even more respect for Harry after the conversation.

She thanked me for the story and then had to go to where she was needed next. After she left I realized I could actually have a conversation with her without being affected.

Things were starting to look up about this year. It may have been a small thing but I wanted to keep this momentum going.

On the Friday of November 13th I only had two classes. A third year class and a fifth. The 3rd and 6th periods.

So when I received word that the wand weighing ceremony would be happening in where a 4th period would be. I made my way there cause I had the free time.

I greeted the other champions that were there. Fleur and Viktor respectively. Then we were joined by Cedric Diggory.

The Judges were already there. Heads of school and all. Rita was also here along with her cameraman lackey.

I stood behind the judges table as to only observe and not interfere too much in the proceedings.

Then Harry arrived. He was greeted by Crouch who told him about the wand weighing. Making sure to stress the safety of it all.

Then Rita pounced. Before I could even think of a way to stop her she already had Harry by the hand and dragged him to the nearest door.

"Shouldn't someone stop that from happening?" I asked from behind Dumbledore.

"Yes, I think that would be wise." He then got up with a surprising amount of quickness for his age and went off to try and break it up.

Mr. Ollivander had come into the room at that point. Bagman escorted him in we all then had to wait for Dumbledore to get done.

The champions followed the instructions of Crouch to sit and wait for the last champion.

Dumbledore came back out with Harry. Then Rita followed behind them like a thief not wanting to be seen.

We made eye contact. With a bit of malice I changed my eye color to a deep red. She looked away and sat down to herself and never looked near me again.

Dumbledore introduces and in some cases reintroduced Ollivader to the champions.

Mr. Ollivander then went on with the weighing. First taking a look at Fleur's wand. I knew about the veela hair.

I learned about the rosewood. I also learned that it was from her grandmother. It was a nice little thing to know.

Then was Diggory. From this I learned about the unicorn hair and ash wood. I like an adult choked on air at the fact that Cedric polished his wood last night.

I got an embarrassed look from Cedric. A small laugh into a hand from Fleur and glares from the judges.

Next was Viktor Krum. Seeker extraordinaire. I learned about Krum's hornbeam and dragon heartstring wand.

Then was Harry. Ollivander said nothing about Harry's wand as far as the make. He just tested it said it was perfectly fine and handed it back.

The fact that he seemed to intentionally leave that out and examined that wand the longest did go noticed by both judges and competitors.

Then when group photos started I left. It looked like it was going to take awhile to frame everyone.

Later in the month Rita's story on Harry made paper. Harry clearly never spoke the way the paper made him sound. Hermione turned into a romantic interest somehow.

A few days after that Harry came into my office after dark, "I have to get something from the dragons."

"Then you figured-I mean wow sounds hard." I tried not to totally risk crossing a line with an ancient artifact's rules.

"Do you have any advice you can give me?" Harry seemed just a tad desperate.

"Hm...Do you remember your first year?" I asked.

"Yeah, which part."

"The key room, where I tried to summon the object but it was charmed to not allow that." I explained, "Well you can try that but if it's also not that simple I'm sure you can improvise something."

"Didn't I use a broom to grab the key?" He jumped at this memory.

"Before I could try anything else to get the key, yes you did."

"Then I can just play to my strengths again this time!"

"You seem confident in your ability to possibly out fly a dragon."

"Do you think I shouldn't?"

"I think if anyone could be able to it'd be you."

"What about Krum?"

"Krum's not ballsy enough to even attempt it, you might even surprise the dragon."

Then it was the day of the first task. I had to sit with the Hogwarts delegation. I was to the left of Dumbledore and Snape. With Snape being the buffer.

I pretty much had a front row seat. I didn't sit at all though. I had two students in this deadly thing. I also had a new friend in Fleur.

I just didn't want to see anyone die that's all I'll give Krum I didn't know the dude. First out was Cedric. He had to take on the Swedish Short-Snout for the golden egg.

Once out Cedric cast a transfiguration spell at a rock turning into a dog. A Labrador Hagrid identified behind me when someone nearby asked.

It had drawn away the attention of the Short-Snout for a bit and when Cedric went in to grab it the dragon whipped back and spewed fire.

I could feel the flames from where I stood. Then the Dragon switched targets. Cedric had been clearly burned. He went to hide behind some rocks and recover.

The transfigured dog seemed to then without the dragon to distract go for the egg. The interest from the dragon recaptured.

Cedric ran for the egg after the dragon went again after the dog. With a good amount of speed he grabbed it before heading out.

The dragon keepers then restrained the dragon. I saw Charlie among them but didn't bother interacting as he was very obviously distracted.

Then came the scores a 3 from Karkaroff which drew a lot of boo's, a 7 from Dumbledore, a 6 from Madam Maxime, a 6 from Bagman, and an 8 from Crouch.

It was a very middle of the board score. For now though he was in first place.

Once that dragon was taken out another one was swapped in. A Welsh Green for Fleur. I personally feel it went a bit better than Cedric's attempt if I'm honest.

Fleur used Bewitched sleep on the dragon which almost worked. It snored fire at her and she got a tiny bit burnt but otherwise she wasn't damaged like Cedric.

She put it out right away the worse she suffered was maybe by embarrassment. Though it might have been a bit boring.

For her try from Bagman a 5, Dumbledore a 7, Maxime gave her a 7, Karkaroff a gave a 2, and Crouch a 5.

I complained that while not as thrilling she got the job done better and more efficiently to Snape.

He just smirked his smirk. I don't know what his problem was. At least it was much easier to transfer out the dragon this time.

A Chinese Fireball was put in signaling the next champion. Krum came out. From next to me Hagrid muttered a small "Oh no."

Krum made easy work of it. He blasted a conjunctivitis curse at the Fireball's eye. The poor thing.

The only problem was that after he did that the dragon went and stepped on the golden egg in the chaos.

Krum got in grabbed the egg and got out. There wasn't a scratch on him unlike the other two.

Cedric was allowed out but he had a bit of orange paste all over where his burns were.

Viktor's scores were a 10 from Karkaroff, a 5 from Bagman, a 7 from Crouch, a 8 from Dumbledore, and 7 from Maxime.

The dragon keepers helped the Chinese Fireball out of the arena. Then with great effort of the keepers part they brought in the Hungarian Horntail.

It was a nasty looking beast. I could tell now why it really wasn't a dragon to messed with.

While I was worried for the others a new level of apprehension came over me for Harry. I knew him better and he was so young to be at the level he needed to be.

It might not have been a basilisk but it was right up there. I didn't know how many feelings I went through.

Then Harry came out and was immediately accosted by the dragon. Harry dove behind a rock and pointed his wand at the castle behind us.

Then after that was cast he once again cast this time at the egg. Then something that shocked me it flew right to him. He grabbed it from behind the rock and stayed there.

Fire was still being spewed from the mouth of the dragon and just when it stopped Harry took a running leap. He jumped and landed on a broom while holding the golden egg.

Then after taking off the Dragon broke free of it's chain. It gave chase as Harry sped around the arena.

Then having built up some distance and speed he chucked the egg right to me. I found it had an eery resemblance of the key room.

Then like before he took off with the Horntail chasing right after him. There was silence. I then held up the Golden Egg for everyone to see and get the crowd into it.

After a bit there was a chant I could fist pump to and lead. We kept the sound going for a long stretch before Harry came back. I tossed him the egg from my spot on the stand.

Harry got to do a lap before heading into the medical tent to get looked over. I got up from my seat said my goodbyes to the other teachers and headmaster and left.

When I got to the medical tent Ron and Hermione were already there. Then Hermione started crying yelled at the two and ran past me. She looked up at me as she passed.

She was bawling I stopped her from running any further grabbed a handkerchief and handed it to her. Then I gave her a pat on the shoulder and went into the tent.

Ron was talking animatedly at Harry explaining all that he had missed. "It's nice to see the two of you all made up." I spoke.

Both of them looked up at me with big grins. "Me too" Harry spoke.

"Sorry again, mate." Ron apologized, "Now let's hear the scores."

They both made it to the end of the enclosure with me standing behind them. I looked up at the Judges.

9 from Maxime, Crouch a 9, Dumbledore a 9, Bagman a 9. As each number was shown Ron got more and more excited.

From Karkaroff a 1. Making it a tie. The best hope for Krum. The boos from the crowd were immense. Karkaroff seemed to hold firm.

Charlie gave Harry the good news and told him to go see Crouch. We nodded once at each other and went our own ways.

I followed after Harry. Crouch congratulated all of the champions. He told them the second task would take place February 24th. He told them about the hint in the egg.

Then he dismissed them all. Rita tried to speak with Harry but he told her off nicely. I gave a big laugh and threw Harry in a headlock as we walked back to the castle.

At the start of December Fleur once again stayed after class. "Zey said before you became a Professor at 'ogwarts you were able to cast a corporeal patronus."

"First off who ever they is needs to stop speaking about things." She laughed at the small joke, "Second that's the thing that got me this job I'm sure at my age."

"It is an amazing feat being able to cast a patronus let alone a corporeal one." She praised, "Zen to become a teacher right after graduating it is a whole other accomplishment."

"Aw, you're making me blush."

"I could not tell even if I wanted to make you blush."

"Naw, I'd probably shift it away."

She shook her head and rolled her eyes. Then she opened her eyes wide as if getting an idea.

"What if you teach me how to perform a corporeal patronus, I would be most appreciative."

"Hm, well it's not like I haven't done that for a student before." Harry really did need it.

"Oh please, it would be nice to accomplish we do not have a teacher like you zere and zis is my last year."

"Twist my arm why don't you."

"Would that make you say yes?" She asked.

"It's an expression."

She laughed, "Oh I know but sometimes you never know wiz zese zings."

So I taught her a little bit after each class and during weekends. It was during one of those weekends Hermione interrupted our lesson.

"Did you know?" She asked.

"About what?"

"You are 'arry Potter's girlfriend, oui?"

"I'm not." She replied frazzled at the same time I laughed out a, "She's not."

"Oh." was all Fleur had to say.

"The house-elves." Hermione tried to get back on track.

"Which ones the Hogwarts ones?"

"Yes, did you know what they are made to do?"

"Is this a slave labor thing cause it's not exactly the same because they are magicily-"

"Of course it's the same do you know how many house-elves are abused?"

"Sadly more than there should be, is this about that one house-elf from the World Cup?"

"Part of it, she was clearly owned by a terrible person that treated her horribly."

"While I can agree, not all elves are being abused." I stepped forward, "The Hogwarts house-elves need to be tied down to something."

"Do zey not all require ze magic of zeir owners?" Fleur jumped in, "It is a symbiotic relationship as you call it."

"Dobby gets paid." Hermione asserted.

"I don't know who Dobby is." I did, "However, it's not your job to make sure house-elves become unionized."

"It should be someone's job, what do you even care you've not joined S.P.E.W."

"Spew?" Fleur cringed a bit.

"Don't say it like that!" Hermione growled, "Fine I see how it is, you keep doing whatever it is you are doing with her while I do what's right and help these poor house-elves."

Hermione stormed out. "Wow." Fleur seemed surprised.

"Don't mind that she's just having a very rough year and she's taken up a project to concentrate her stress and frustration on."

"I suppose I can understand zat."

Then it was the last day of the term. Fourth years and up were panicking over the Yule Ball that was coming later in the week.

I thankfully got to sit out on stressing out about it. That was until that night when Fleur had gotten the corporeal patronus down.

It was getting close time to wrap up and for Fleur to head back to her Beauxbatons carriage.

Then when she was exhausted she cast a final silent expecto patronum then from her wand came an abraxan fittingly enough.

However to be lucky enough to get a magical creature for a patronus was exceedingly rare. I was slightly jealous of her myself.

I cast my own patronus. It flew around the room before landing on the head of her abraxan.

That's when she turned around and with a big exhausted smile asked, "Would you go to the Yule Ball with me."

"Excusmewhat?" my brain had to reboot for a second.

"I could not understand zat, please slow down and instead of making it sound like a question say yes."

"I don't think that-"

"Zere is no rule against it in the Triwizard Tournament rule book, plus you are a teacher from a different school zere is no real ezical issue."

"Why don't you want to go with someone your age, and that goes to school like you?"

"None of ze boys have control, I do not want zem ogling me all night."

"What about-"

"All ze girls at my school do not interest me, zey are ze ones who blame me for zer men troubles." She explained, "As for ze 'ogwart's girls none 'ave shown an interest in me, ozer zan you."

"Wouldn't that be the pull of your veela powers?" I cringed a bit at that defense.

"While possible, you 'ave overcome zat 'ave you not?" She raised a brow in victory.

"Oh god I'm going to be fired." I put my hands over my eyes sitting down on the floor.

"We are nearly ze same age, 'ow about I promise to make an magical vow if anyone actually cares enough to ask."

"That sounds so risky."

"It is ze truz." She stood firm, "Do I 'ave to twist your arm again?"

"Fine I'll go with you." I relented.

"Yes!" She celebrated, "After you told me you 'ad never dated I knew I 'ad to become ze first."

"I don't know if I would count this as a-"

"You will, because I will." She commanded, "Nozing has to come of zis if it turns out to be zat bad."

"I guess you're right."

"Of course I am right." She gave me a smile then made her way out of my classroom, "Since I am Beauxbatons' champion we will be having ze first dance, where somezing zat will go with silver-gray black always works."

Then she left. Thoughts raced through my head at about a million miles per second. What about Bill? Did this mean anything for the future? What did this change?

"You've stepped in it now Tonks." I spoke to myself.

Then it was Christmas. I had the day to prepare I became one of those panicked people.

Thankfully I had a few choices when it came to dressing up. I took Fleur's advice on going with something black. I had picked out a black dress with a corset.

For accessories I picked out some long silk black gloves I chose to go with long curly hair. I left on my wand holster it was bound around my bicep.

It would be the first time that I would be at Hogwarts without some kind of coat. It was slightly embarrassing. I felt like I was really trying something new.

For the first time in this life I was going on a date. A school dance date but a date I had to consider one.

I didn't know how to act. Should I go for behaving myself more? Or would that be too not me? If I acted normally would that count as not acting like I was on a date?

A note had made it onto my desk since I last looked at it instructing me where to meet Fleur.

Shaking off my nerves, I prepared myself. Then with two quick slaps on both cheeks getting my blood pumping I made my way to where I was instructed to go in front of the Great Hall.

On my way there I passed by a large amount of my students. Some greeted me with shy looks. Others looked shocked to see me.

Whether it was because I was dressed fancy or because I was in a dress at all I didn't know.

I passed by one of the twins. I think it was George he had his arm wrapped around Katie Bell's.

"Professor Tonks, you look like you've stepped out of a muggle movie!" He commented with awe in his voice.

"She looks hot." Were the wise words of Katie.

"Thank you both, I hope you both have fun at the dance." I nodded at the two.

"Not as much fun as you, eh?" He said one last thing as I sped past him.

Then I waited in front of the Great Hall doors. I was standing alone but others were around chatting and waiting.

"My goodness." I heard a brogue accent behind me. I turned around to see McGonagall wearing dress robes of red tartan, "You look quite spectacular Nymphadora."

"Thanks, I'm just so worried."

"What are you worried about my dear." This would be a good litmus test for the rest of the night.

"I was strong armed into accepting a date from one of the visiting students."

"Oh good, I was worried that you got all dressed up and were just going to sit out the Yule Ball."

"What?"

"Oh sorry, did you want me to say…" She cleared her throat, "What a terrible disgrace coming to the school ball with a student why in all my years I've never."

"So I take it's really not that bad as I feel it is."

"It's a Ball, as long as you don't plan on doing anything untoward." She raised an eyebrow, "Which I like to believe I know you enough that you wouldn't, the fact that you're nervous at all about it shows me that it will be fine."

"Thank you for the support Minerva." I said looking down.

"I also felt it was about time you let down your hair, it's a terrible thing to waste one's youth being all work and no play." She laughed, "So who is it, some Durmstrang student who found the courage?"

"No...it was the Beauxbatons' champion."

"You know you have the first dance correct?" She seemed a bit worried for me.

"It was one of the things she told me yes."

"Good I'm glad you know." She looked pleased, "Now if you don't mind."

She went off to separate some handsey students. Then Harry and Ron arrived. Ron was in the company of an unenthusiastic Parvati.

"Cor Blimey, I've never seen you think dressed up before Professor Tonks!" Ron exclaimed.

"Yes you look quite beautiful Professor." Harry agreed.

"Very pretty, Professor Tonks." Parvati smiled.

"And you all look...Well Parvati you look stunning." I cringed at Ron's ugly robes and Harry's oversized ones.

"I take it back Professor." Harry rolled his eyes.

"She's right." Ron lamented looking at the sleeves, "I look like I skinned a purple bear."

"Where's your date Mr. Potter." I asked Harry.

"I have no idea, I told her to meet me here but I have no idea if that got through."

"Got through?"

"Well she can be a bit-"

"Zer you are, you look so beautiful, come." Fleur complimented and commanded one after the other as she dragged me away from the others.

"You look very beautiful too." I looked at her silver satin dress. She had done her hair in a very sleek fashion with a bun at the back, "I got you this."

I flicked my wand into my gloved hand then conjured a bracelet of light pink flowers. I helped put it around her wrist.

" 'ow very suave of you." She looked them over turning over her wrist to get all the details.

That's when the Bulgarian Durmstrang students barged into the room. Karkaroff leading the pack.

Viktor Krum was right behind him and next to him was the glowed up Hermione. Then I was blinded as a light shined right into my eyes.

I looked over to wear the light had come from and saw a young student wearing shiny silver foil in a dress. She had blonde hair and mini candy cane earrings.

I knew her from my third year classes with Ravenclaw. I wondered how Luna had gotten an invitation. Then I looked over.

Standing next to her was Harry who looked a bit exasperated but looked like he was also holding back laughter as well.

How on earth did that happen. I made a plan to ask him during the dance. Then McGonagall spoke to the crowd of people. "Champions over here."

Arm in arm with Fleur she led me over to the Transfiguration Professor. Krum with Hermione, Harry and Luna, and with a bit of a wait came Cedric and Cho.

We all greeted one another. Everyone else seemed to measuring each other up. It was strange to watch.

"All of you will come in after everyone has already gone into the Great Hall in procession, you first Ms. Delacour and Nymphadora."

She guided us to the front of the doors. She then spoke to the rest of them putting them in order.

McGonagall then stepped ahead of us to presumably lead us into the Great Hall.Then the doors to the Great Hall opened and we started walking.

I heard the applause from everyone before anything else. I saw my fourth through sixth year students looking at me with just a bit of a surprise on their faces.

I got a few thumbs up from some of my older male students. Didn't quite know how to take that.

Draco had more of a thoughtful look on his face before he looked past us presumably at Harry or another person with anger in his eyes.

His date sharing the same loathing look. Ron was looking in the distance at something probably only he could see. At the end of the room the judges sat with a bit of height.

Dumbledore gave me a small smile and twinkling eyes. Snape it seems didn't come or was lurking around somewhere else.

Karkaroff was glaring somewhere behind us. I made a guess it was his choice of date in Hermione the prick.

Maxime clapped politely but took in my appearance with a thoughtful look to her. Crouch was missing and in his place was my no longer student Percy Weasley.

We made our way to the center of the Great Hall with everyone surrounding us. We faced each other before the music started.

Fleur placed her hand on my shoulder and hip taking the leading position. Then the music started and I was pulled along in a waltz.

I always knew I had two left feet. It came with the perks drawbacks of being a metamorph. However it seemed Fleur had prepared.

So each time that I was about to make a wrong move that ended with a possible foot stepping she would just the instance before move it out of the way.

If I had to guess she was used to bad dancers at least for one reason or another. At least I wasn't drooling I made the thoughts in my brain as she led me around.

Then one by one people joined us on the floor. Until it was filled. Then the music started to slow down.

The dancing stopped and I had to control both the blush and smile on my face. I was unsuccessful in my attempts. Then we joined the head table with the rest of the judges.

Who all looked just a tiny bit winded excluding Percy who didn't dance, Karkaroff, and Bagman who seemed to have left the dance at some point.

We sat down. Fleur had Maxime on her left and me on her right. There were golden plates where we were sat and menus right in front of them.

I looked it over before speaking, "Chicken Parmigiana." The Italian meal appeared on my plate.

The rest of the table did the same picking their own meals from the menu. Krum was talking with Hermione.

Harry seemed to be both listening to everyone around him while taking in the Ball.

Fleur was talking to me about France, about Beauxbatons describing some of the festivities there.

Luna seemed to be chatting anyone's ear of who would listen. First Harry, then Dumbledore.

When everyone was done eating the music had started back up. Much faster this time. I got up, "I'm going to have a chat with some of my students, it seems there are stories to be told."

Fleur laughed at my need to know a bit of gossip but encouraged me to go. I made my way up to Harry and asked him to dance.

"Really?" He looked confused by my attempt.

"It's only to talk really while moving our feat."

"Sure." Then he stood up and took me to the floor.

"What is it you wanted to talk about?" he asked.

"Well I wanted to know the story behind Luna Lovegood becoming your date to the Ball."

"Oh, that." Harry had a self deprecating laugh, "At first I was worried about her but she's turned out more than fun, if a bit weird."

"Yes, she's had a moment or two in my class." I agreed, "She is very intelligent under all that though, she can pick up most things when it comes to lessons as well as moods."

"Yeah, she seems to have a bit more to her going on for a third year."

"So...how did it happen?"

"Well I was practicing asking Cho Chang out." He admitted.

"Who is now here with Cedric, so that didn't go as planned."

"No it did not." He let out a breath, "Anyway I was practicing out loud and I hear someone behind me agree to go with me to the ball."

"So she wandered into you just asking the question?"

"Yeah it was strange, she already said yes and I was nervous enough actually thinking about asking someone and saying she got it wrong that I just let it happen."

"Gosh, you're more awkward that I was about this whole thing."

"What's your story about that?" he asked. So I told him about our conversation about our powers and gifts when it came to veela and metamorphmagus.

Then the side lessons. Then finally her asking me after she successfully achieved her goal.

"Wow, if I knew her better I might say she had it all planned out."

"Do you think so?" He shrugged at my question then the next song started.

"I'm going to check in on Ron." He let me go.

"Can I cut in?" Hermione appeared.

"Go ahead, I was just about to head off." Harry handed me off to Hermione and now I was leading.

"Passed along to another, I don't know how I feel." I joked.

"Well he's going over to Ron, and now you've got me so clearly you've gotten an upgrade." Hermione stuck up her chin in good humor.

"Confidence looks good on you Ms. Granger." I complimented, "The rest of the outfit helps too."

"Do you think so, I was so worried." She spoke in a nervous manner.

"It seems everyone was a bit nervous about this, I thought it was just me."

"What have you got to be nervous about you came her with Fleur."

"That's no big shot seeker Viktor Krum."

"You have me there, I feel like it's just a strange pairing the two of us."

"I think I get it, he's a celebrity pretty much with your any lack of major interest in him when it comes to his fame. I'm sure he wanted to be treated like a normal person and not put on a pedestal."

"I was thinking along those same lines when he asked me. I didn't know if I should have said yes but after...a bit of thinking I said yes."

"Good, you looked the happiest now out of the whole year."

"Listen I wanted to apologize for snapping at you the one time when you were with Fleur."

"It was fine, from the start of the year it's been a major stressor on you. You're allowed to let off some steam on me if you want."

"Thank you, I am a bit worried for you though."

"Why what's going on?" I asked.

"Well I know Fleur is a veela, so I'm worried that you might be under her influence a bit."

"Don't worry I made that worry known to Fleur before I said yes, she said the fact that I could make that distinction implied I was not in fact under her spell."

"Are you sure, we all reacted pretty strangely during the World Cup."

"We?"

"You, Harry, Ron, and I." She explained, "Though maybe you didn't notice it must have affected you more than me. I know what it feels like and I'm sure it can be pretty strong."

"I appreciate your concern but I think I'll be fine. It's only a dance plus it's not like she'd gain much from me."

"I suppose you're right, thank you for accepting my apology."

"Have a good night Ms. Granger." She then went off to do her own thing. I made my way back to Fleur who was being talked to by Roger Davies.

Fleur had a bit of a bored look on her face but seemed to not be as rude as to tell him to go away. I'd help her out just a bit, for the perks that come with being my date.

"Mr. Davies, how are you doing this evening?" I asked the Ravenclaw.

"I'm doing just peachey." He replied looking at me had had a glassy look in his eyes.

"Have you improved on your spellwork yet, we can't have you nearly blowing up another student again next year."

The glassy look left him instead he started blushing he looked back at Fleur and excused himself before making a retreat.

"You've embarrassed ze poor zing." Fleur shook her head in mock disappointed fashion.

"He really does need to improve, and it looked like you needed saving."

"I refuse to say 'my 'ero'"

"Wouldn't ask you to." I laughed.

" 'ow about I ask you to ze rose garden."

"Lead on then." I accepted her invitation. We made our way out of the Great Hall and into the entrance hall. From there we placidly walked into the garden area.

I heard a fountain splashing in the background as we sat down on a carved bench. We chatted a bit more about small things. She talked about her sister.

I talked about my first year teaching. Fleur described her mother and father. I talked about mine.

I saw Ron and Harry walk by us as they made their way further down the path. They didn't seem to notice us though.

After a bit Snape came speeding out past us in his own world clearly. Followed by a nervous for once, looking Karkaroff.

I feel like I remembered them arguing about old death eater stuff. It slightly put a damper on my mood.

Fleur picking up on it asked my about my first year. Then after I told her about it, she talked about her own first year at Beauxbatons.

Madame Maxime stormed past the both of us. "If she is zat upset maybe it would be best if I went to check in on 'er." Fleur spoke.

"That's more than acceptable."

"I've 'ad a wonderful night wiz you."

"Me too." She then went in for a quick kiss it felt soft there was a tiny bit of pressure then she stood back up.

"Zat was also your first kiss as well." I nodded, "Zen I have claimed two firsts from you." She had her own cackle I found out. "Goodnight zen, mon tendre."

"Uh, sure goodnight." I stuttered out. She then ran after her headmistress. Ron was dragging Harry back into the school. I had a strange feeling about something.

I spun around back into the garden and looked for something amiss. I cast a lumos and the tip of my wand lit up.

I walked around the garden for a bit before coming across a green beetle reflecting my light. It was crawling over the stone reindeer that had been created for the garden.

"Oh what a beautiful looking beetle" I lied, it had come back to me that Rita would be around here at this time. It seemed to stop moving.

If it was because I noticed or that she was soaking the praise I couldn't tell from the bug. As soon as she did stop I hit it with a stunner. It dropped from the statue.

I caught the tiny thing before taking a page out of Hermione's book and conjuring a mason jar with a metal lid.

I placed the beetle inside and made sure to pierce through some air holes for the beetle I now had.

I made my way back to my chambers. I passed by Dumbledore who commented on the beetle I had. He described it as quite unique beetle but said he wasn't a Coleopterologist.

When I was finally in my room I let her out where I undid her transformation and woke her up.

She was quick to panic and beg not to let the Ministry know about her Animagus form. I said I would let her go scott free if she made a Magical Vow to not write untruths.

I made a list of the people Hermione, Harry, Ron, Myself, Fleur, and Hagrid. I made a silent apology to Hagrid that his nature would still be revealed.

I didn't exactly want to silence a press no matter how slimy. I did however want to stop her from writing lies or exaggerations with flourishes that only did damage.

I told her as much. She repeated the list and agreed. Then she took the magical vow she would be stripped of her magic if she went back on her word.

She then transformed back into the beetle and flew out of my chambers. I sighed and locked the door behind her.

I changed out of my outfit and into something comfortable to sleep in before heading to bed. Memories of that night played out in my head.

January came and went with nothing much happening. I told Fleur that nothing would happen the rest of the year while I was teaching her.

She respected my choice. "Although it is a shame since we 'ad such chemistry. If after zis year during your break for ze summer you would like to go for a second date please feel free to write."

That was that. I knew she would probably end up with Bill so I wasn't too confident about reaching out.

I asked Harry if he figured out the egg. He told me that Cedric already told him to use the prefects bathroom.

I gave him a bit of a huge clue with, "Sound sure is strange when you're under the water, strange how the world works, eh?"

He rolled his eyes at me, "Yeah okay I got it." Before continuing on his way doing whatever he did.

The news of Hagrid's origins makes the paper. While not as scathing and only tells the truth it's enough to make Hagrid a lot more timid.

He seemed to recover by the time February had nearly started. In February a lot more took place.

The first thing was Peter was tried and sent to Azkaban. They didn't bother sending for anyone when he willingly confessed after showing them his dark mark.

Which was red and irritated. This caused a lot of panic in the Ministry from the rumors I heard. The news seemed to make it to Hogwarts just fine.

The news of the mark however was suspiciously left out. All Sirius needed to do was turn himself in and receive a pardon before a small trial would take place about his escape from Azkaban.

I didn't know where he was but I assume he would be making his way back by now along with Lupin.

I had asked Harry if he had heard the good news. To which he replied that he had. I also asked about if he knew what he was going to do for the task.

He told me he had it under control and had a plan to use a plant a good friend had recommended him.

He didn't say it was Neville or Dobby though I shouldn't have really known the existence of the elf. It could have been either one however the point was made and it didn't matter in the end.

The night before the event I was sent to collect both Hermione and Ron to be put at the bottom of the lake.

It seemed they had moral issues with putting a third year like Luna under or maybe because it was Ron they thought Harry would try more.

If it was the first they held no such restraint when it came to other people outside of Hogwarts.

They nearly used Gabrielle Delacour as the hostage for Fleur. I brought up that no matter how safe it was I felt that even if it was the thing she cared about most.

It would be nothing but cruel to use an 8 year old. As Crouch seemed to have not come back Bagman was left to start running things.

"Then what do you suggest we do?" He seemed a bit grumpy at having to run things now, "She doesn't seem to get along with many of the other students."

"I volunteer as tribute!" I made myself laugh at my own comment.

"Ludo, she does have a point." Dumbledore seemed to be going along with it, "She would be able to handle it if something went wrong."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence Headmaster." I scratched my head.

"You realize that should Delacour fail to save you, you will be fine as nothing should go wrong?"

"I'm up for it, put me in coach!"

Then they hit me with a bewitched sleep and I was out like a light. That's how I ended up waking up in the Great Lake. Being dragged through the water by Fleur Delacour.

"Holy shit is it freezing!" I complained to my savior, "Do you mind if I swoon and say my hero?" I chattered from the cold.

She was out of breath and couldn't say anything but her smile was there. Then she brought me to the shore.

Pomfrey had me wrapped in blankets and a hot cocoa in my hand before I had even realized it.

When Fleur caught her breath she spoke, "My sister told me you took 'er place?"

"Didn't feel right throwing a kid to the bottom of the lake." I shrugged.

"You magnifique idiot, I zank you for doing it."

"What a whiplash of comments." I joked. She then grabbed me by the top of my shoulders and pulled me in for what I felt like was one of the longest kisses in the world.

There was a tiny audible pop as she pulled away. Then ran off to join her school and find out her score.

I sat with the rest of the hostages each of us trying to warm up. "I really am getting the full Triwizard Tournament experience." I commented to my students. Cho didn't laugh.

However Hermione and Ron did, I guess you just had to know me to get it. Then I heard Dumbledore's voice. He announced that the scores would be out of 50.

Cedric for his magic use and speed with the fastest time received a 47. Fleur received a 45 for doing the same with a slower time.

Harry who used gillyweed came in third and received 40 Krum who used an incomplete transfiguration and coming in fourth received 37.

Another tie for Harry Potter, this time with Cedric for the lead. Dumbledore then announced the time for the next and final task.

24th of June and there would be no secrets this time the champions would know what they were up against the month before.

Then us hostages were brought back to the school to change into dry clothes.

In the last week of February Sirius turned himself into the proper authorities. His trial would be on the 6th of March.

When it happened it was the shortest trial imaginable. With Fudge pulling some strings even the illegal animagus charges were dropped.

Being his only way out of Azkaban for being charged with crimes he didn't commit it was something to overlook in Fudges eyes.

His approval ratings evened back out after this even jumped up some. Crouch was to be demoted again once the tournament was over and his time as judge was finished.

A week after Sirius' exoneration I sent him a letter requesting to meet. I let Harry have a week of time with his Godfather since Harry could skip classes as he was champion.

Irritatingly enough I didn't get a letter back for a full month even when Harry did return back to school.

Either he was hiding somewhere where even the owls were having a hard time reaching him or he was just being a lazy ass.

It turned out I was wrong on both accounts. When he sent the letter back he explained that he now owned house elf.

Kreacher wouldn't let the letters through from someone from the family that was kicked out and a half-blood at that.

He also added that they didn't like each other, so it might have been that too. He said that we could meet on Sunday the 25th of May.

When that day came I waited for him to arrive while grading all the homework that needed it. He didn't arrive until after lunch time.

He looked a lot more filled out since the last time I saw him in Azkaban garb. He had gotten rid of his grey hairs.

Trimmed the exes hair from his head and beard and seemed to have a healthy glow to him. It was nice to see the innocent man so healthy and appreciative of life.

"You're late." I commented, even if he was free I still didn't want to waste time.

"You have the Black scowl down to a T." He laughed, "I have the instinct to apologize even if you're 14 years my younger."

"Sorry I just wanted to get this done as quick as possible as you are the only one that can do it."

"Well what can a man that's just got out of prison do for my niece."

"I want you to reinstate me into the Black family."

The wind seemed to leave him. "Uh…"

"I also want to buy Grimmauld place from you."

"Wow-"

"Also your house elf if he irritates you so much, I can take him off your hands and it might even make him even more miserable."

"Sweetening the pot I see." He still looked shaken from everything, "You're really asking for a lot, I don't even know if I can do all that."

"You are the last male heir of the main Black branch, you already said Kreacher obeys you-"

"Complains about it though and finds ways to use loopholes in my commands." Sirius muttered.

"Nonetheless, you clearly have the authority to lead the Black family and all its properties."

"I do?" Sirius seemed to rub his head as if just getting a headache, "You sure know how to drop bombshells on a guy."

"I've been wanting to do this as soon as I found out your innocents, I know my mother wants nothing to do with becoming a Black again but I feel that it's necessary."

"You clearly want to become a Black more than I want to be one, I could just bring you in and transfer the headship of to you can't I."

My eyes widened. It would mean even more of an upswing in ranks adding even more weight to my name. It sounded perfect for my goals.

"It's more that possible, it's very much a thing you can do." I let excitement seep into my voice, "Let me just draw up some contracts so that-"

"There's no need for contracts." Sirius laughed.

"You do realize that without a contract, I can screw you over."

"I hope you don't plan on doing that."

"I don't but we hardly know each other it's seems unrealistic to trust one another having barely met."

"I know you." He turned...serious, sorry it's hopefully going to be the only time but I can't promise anything, "Your the person that helped my godson and his friends for 4 years now.

You are the person who's looked after Harry the way I wish I could have. So I think I know you enough, that you'll be a better head of house that I ever would be and I think I know that you wouldn't leave me out to dry."

The room held a silence. "Thank you." I simply said I closed off my tear ducts.

"Now how do we get this done?" Sirius tried to get back into a more energetic mood.

"I'm sure you know better than anyone magic is about intent, so a sharing of blood and vow will do for bringing me into the family bit."

Sirius then quickly cast a spell at his hand and it started bleeding. I held out my own trusting him in the same way he seemed to trust me.

I received my own cut and we shook hands. "I bring you into the Black Family, Nymphadora Tonks, now Black...how's this for toujours pur you bunch of twats."

A white light seemed to twirl around our joined hands then a flash illuminated the room.

I conjured wraps for both our hands and tied mine off. Sirius did the same then started speaking.

"Come on, let's see how many rotations I can dear old and mom!" Sirius seemed giddy.

"We've got the house,the elf, and headship."

"We'll do it in that order then!"

"I do need to sign a bill of sale for the house and transfer out some money for this."

"You sure you can't just take it for free?"

"Have some damned sense about you, you as you joked earlier. Just got out of prison, so you will need some money to buy yourself a new wand some clothes and other amenities.

You don't have to worry about a place just yet you can definitely stay in Grimmauld Place I'm here most of the year anyway."

"Fine but you'll have to take the elf for free."

"Deal" I made a mental note to add 25 galleons to the house bill of sale contract.

I pulled out a piece of stationary and started writing. I had Sirius sign it then I signed it myself.

"Now the elf." Sirius clapped his hands together then rubbed them, "Kreacher!"

With a crack the old weathered house-elf appeared, "Blood traitor master has called for Kreacher?" He did not seem pleased.

"I transfer your ownership to the reinstated Nymphadora Black!" Nothing happened, "Did that work?"

"Try asking him to do something." I shrugged.

"Kreacher go smash your head against a wall." Sirius commanded.

"Kreacher does not need to obey embarrassment to the Black name, how dare you bring a filthy half-blood into the family. Mistress would be devastated."

"Guess it worked then." Sirius smiled, "Want to take him for a spin?"

"God no wonder he hates you, you treat him like shit."

"You heard him, he's an absolute pissant of nature."

"He's clearly just unstable." I then turned to the old house-elf, "I'd like you to clean Grimmauld Place so that it is livable enough for Sirius.

I want all the dark artifacts and Items put in a separate closet away from the rest of the rooms. Once you are finished, I want you to come back here for more instructions.

Also if Sirius asks for something I want you to do it, unless it's to punish yourself or intentionally harm you in anyway."

"As the half-blood mistress commands." He snapped his fingers and in a crack was gone.

"One last thing." Sirius put up his index finger to illustrate the point.

"I think it'd be the same as before but without the blood contact."

"I recognize Nymphadora Black, as head of House Black. To do with its assets as she sees fit."

Another bright light lit up the room before hovering over me for a short while before dissipating.

"Well congratulations, you've gotten everything you've wanted from me. I guess just send me the money by owl for the house when you get the chance. Toujours pur."

Sirius laughed at his own goodbye before leaving through my fireplace. Well fuck me that was beyond easy.

It was near midnight and I wanted to head to bed but Kreacher hadn't come back for a long time. Of course just when I was about to give up did he appear with a crack.

"Kreacher has done as instructed Ms. Black." He reluctantly bowed.

"Good." I yawned, "This doesn't leave the room under punishment of death."

"What is it young mistress requires of Kreacher?" He seemed almost pleased at the threat.

"I know Regulus Black left you with a locket, I want you to bring that to me so that I may destroy it as soon as possible."

"How does Mistress know of the locket and promise Kreacher made to Regulus Black?" Kreacher asked with surprise more than coating his voice.

"It doesn't matter just make sure that none of this information leaves this room."

"It will be done." Kreacher then snapped away then after seconds of waiting he came back with the locket.

I grabbed it from him before opening one of my desk drawers and putting the horcrux inside before slamming the drawer closed and casting Colloportus on it.

I then cast an anti-unlocking charm, "Now all I need is Harry and that's another item down, Kreacher go back to Grimmauld Place same command applies to Sirius."

"As mistress commands." Kreacher bowed then apperated away. I know had another horcrux ready to be destroyed.

I wondered if my new title allowed me access to the Lestrange Vaults as well. That would be something I needed to check on.

On May 27th Crouch went missing. Viktor Krum got stunned and couldn't tell anyone who had done it.

Strangely enough that's when retired Auror Alastor Moody was brought to the castle grounds by Dumbledore to investigate.

I had heard no hide or hair about Moody being attacked or anything like that. A look at the map proved my point when I saw Moody freely moving around the castle.

Rumors from the kidnapping are that Bertha Jorkins was dead. Voldemort was coming back and growing stronger.

At the time I was visiting Gringotts I didn't remember that situation happening at all. These things slipping through the cracks were really starting to be frustrating.

As to why I was at the bank it was to accomplish a few things. Find out if the head of house transfer went through for the bank.

See if I could gain access by permission to the Lestrange Vault. Combine my personal vault and the Black Vault.

Which just meant putting everything I had in a vault into the 711 vault. Finally I would check out the money and straighten out the ownership of Grimmauld Place.

The trip started out well with the Goblins recognizing my move up in the world. They handled the transfer of vaults.

They stored my paperwork regarding Grimmauld place and transferred ownership properly. They gave me the required galleons for the contract.

I found out that I would not be allowed to access the vaults as a proper dowry had already been paid to the Black family for the combining of houses.

I tried a trick of asking if they allowed horcruxes in their vaults. They said it was the owners business to store whatever they wanted.

So no luck when it came to the horcrux cup there. Other than that a complete success. I made sure an owl got to Sirius, who was now living in my now owned home.

At the start of June I received a letter from my mother during a public breakfast. I quickly identified it as a howler.

I felt it was fair to take my lumps in public as I was an adult and not a student. I had a feeling I knew exactly what it was about. I opened it.

The letter quickly animated before me at the staff table. "I have heard from Sirius what you've done, and while I can understand it. Your father cannot.

He doesn't know how much you've longed to be just a bit more. Ever since you were a child you've always wanted to do more.

You saw an opportunity in becoming a Black so you took it. While I can understand all of that what I don't understand is why you wouldn't tell us.

If it's something we've done I'd like you to tell us. However if this is just something you've done on impulse without thinking of how it could affect others.

I will be most disappointed. You will always be a Tonks no matter what your last name is.

Your father knows that and will get over these hurt feelings with time but I think it's best that until that point you not come home after this year.

You can feel free to wright or Floo anytime. With Love Andromeda Tonks." The Howler did not yell. However disappointment filled each of the words to the brim.

The letter tore once down the middle before flames set the words on fire. Then about more than half of the Syltherins made their quick exits from the Great Hall.

From the Ravenclaw table Fleur looked up at me concern plane on her face. When I looked to the Gryffindor table the Golden Trio along with Neville and Ginny looked like they felt all kinds of sorry for me.

Severus from next to me was clearly staring at me I could feel it however I didn't look. I didn't want to find any questioning stares.

I then got up from the table and walked down the stairs. I then with a speed walk I made it out of the Great Hall. Then I was sprinting in a mad dash to my chambers.

In the letter I wrote back I explained my actions as best I could. I informed them that Tonks would always be part of my name and that I had planned on making it my middle name.

Even if it wasn't exactly the same I would always love them and that I would always be a Tonks.

On the day of the final task before it could start I pulled Harry aside. "The fact that you are here means one thing."

"Yeah, that I was meant to make it this far."

"Ah, so you think you've figured it out."

"Either this was the best place to be able to kill me, or I'm supposed to win."

"I'm so glad you're my student." I praised, "So when you get to the end you need to make sure no one makes it to the end."

"You think that's the trap?"

"Yes."

"I'll try to make sure no one gets killed."

"Harry, if you try and be a brave stupid Gryfindor, remember to yell the name Kreacher at the top of your lungs."

"Okay Professor." Harry took a deep breath before going to see McGonagall. I joined the Weasleys in the stands as Harry Potter's family.

Fudge would be replacing Crouch. Who was presumed dead. Sirius then showed up and walked into the stands with us.

"You had no right!" I angrily whispered to Sirius.

"They had the right to know." Was all he needed to say. Because he was right.

"I'm still very upset with you."

"You have that right." Sirius nodded. We both watched as Cedric and Harry walked into the maze. I then got up I had my job to do in checking for the red sparks.

It was both nail biting and boring work. There was no way to see into the maze. However the map made it handy to track people moving around in it.

I saw Crouch moving around the Maze. However there was no way to keep him down with the changing hedges.

At one point I saw Krum and Crouch pass each other. That's when I knew that Krum had been taken.

When I saw Viktor make his way to Fleur I made my way to where they were around the outside of the maze.

When I saw the red spark go off into the air I just jumped through the maze. Making my way to where Fleur was on the map.

I avoided any of the traps meant for the champions. I got Fleur out from under the hedge. She was out cold. I brought her back to the front of the course.

That's where I left her in the hands of Pomfrey. I then sped back out to the perimeter of the maze keeping an eye on Harry.

I saw Krum over by Cedric with Harry fast approaching. I started shifted into a better running form. Both inside and out. Trying to make sure to catch up.

Then I saw Harry take interact with the three. If he knew something was up, he had to also know this was part of getting him to win.

Then Cedric and Harry walked off together. Krum stayed still on the map. So I made my way to get him before the red sparks.

I levitated the big man I then made my way to where both of my students were. Then I saw Harry disappear of the map. "Idiot!" Cedric was still there though.

I made my way to where Cedric was using the map. I then saw red sparks where he was making my job a bit easier.

When I found him he was sitting down on the floor of the maze. When he looked up and saw me he started speaking.

"The cup was a portkey he told me it was a trap before he touched it." Cedric cried a little, "He made sure I didn't touch the cup."

"There there, it's fine." I calmed the teenager down, "Harry knows how to handle himself."

With the help of Cedric I took Viktor Krum to the mediwitch tent. Where Fleur was awake but clearly had no voice from screaming.

"It's the Cruciatus Curse." Pomfrey explained to me, "I've seen it too many times to not know it when I see it."

"I pointed at Krum, Imperius for you here." I put him down on one of the medical beds, "Check his wand he might have been commanded to do some dark spells."

"What about him?" Pomfrey asked pointing at Cedric.

"He needs to speak to Dumbledore, then he'll be back for a check over."

I then brought Cedric to speak with Dumbledore. Cedric then told him what happened in the maze and about Harry being port-keyed away.

Dumbledore made the announcement that Harry had been kidnapped. While that was going on I dragged Cedric back to Pomfrey.

"He's got signs of Cruciatus as well, though he was clearly under it for a shorter time." Pomfrey confirmed my thoughts. Amos Diggory then made his way into the tent.

I left to let them have their moment. I spotted Cho peeking in from the outside. I bent my neck to indicate that she should just go in. She took my advice.

That's when Harry came flying on his broom. He just looked a bit dirty there were no signs of him having been cut or any blood drawn from him.

Fudge and the rest of the judges swarmed him, as I made them back away to give him some air. With the help of Dumbledore.

Dumbledore then had Harry explain what happened. Harry then went on to explain how as soon as he'd touched the cup he'd been transported to a graveyard.

In a moment of panic he said a house-elf's name to get him out of there. He was then asked if he could identify anything that would help them find the location.

He told them about the Angel of Death statue as one of the statues. With some Riddles names on the headstones.

Voldemort was the name that passed my lips. It startled Karkaroff and Fudge. Karkaroff then grabbed at his forearm. Not with pain but it looked like he was reassuring himself.

Harry told us all about how he was transported somewhere safe that could be side-long apperated to. Then had to Floo back.

That's when Bagman made a move he pulled out his knife to stab at Harry it cut down Harry's cheek then having surprised everybody he grabbed at his neck and spoke.

"Portus." Then he was gone. I cursed. Then I went for the map, I checked it over and Crouch was gone. I cursed again.

"That was Bary Crouch Jr." I informed everyone.

"Yes, I believe so too." Dumbledore agreed.

"What do we do?" Fudge asked Dumbledore and I.

"You prepare for Voldemort to come back." Dumbledore told Fudge.

"No!" The Minister denied, "It was Crouch Jr. and some left over death eaters that just wanted revenge, Voldemort it not back."

Seeing where this was going I took Harry with me to the tent. Pomfrey looked him over then Sirius, Ron, Hermione, and the other Weasleys came to check in on Harry.

That's when Harry bent over screaming. I guess they had made the ritual work somehow.

I'd have to get Dumbledore to tell me if Snape finds out. "What's going on in there?" Fudge asked me.

"His scar started burning, you should really take Dumbledore's advisement with care."

"I will not be a war Minister, I don't have the guts for it." He confessed.

"So you'll cling to what power you can by denying it."

"I can't believe it's a possibility, because if it is true." He paused a blank look over his face, "It can't be true."

We waited there in silence as Harry's screams made it out to us. Until they finally stopped. Then with money in hand Fudge walked in the tent.

Karkaroff had disappeared when I looked for him. I saw Dumbledore talking with Snape I quickly ran over. "Show me your arm Severus." Dumbledore commanded.

"Right here?" Snape looked around then saw me. He closed his eyes and took a breath.

"I'm sure that she's known for quite some time Severus." Dumbledore soothed Snape.

"You were a spy." I spoke looking over my shoulder for other people, "It's fine, what matters is what you do now."

Snape pulled up his sleeve. Revealing the Dark Mark black and not at all faded in anyway.

"Go to him, it seems we need to restart the Order of the Phoenix."

The End-of-Term Feast on July 1st, was a somber one. While no one had died this time it still felt heavy. Dark times were coming everyone in the Great Hall could feel it.

Dumbledore warned everyone that Voldemort was back, and to keep safe during their summers.

The papers said nothing about Voldemort's possible return. It did however indirectly imply things. I talked about what Cedric had said about a trap.

It talked about how Harry had been taken to a graveyard and escaped. It seems that the papers were allowed to let people think for themselves.

I looked down from the staff table down at Harry. He showed no signs of the fact that he had helped me just the day before.

I talked to Harry and told him to come up to my office. When he met me there I started speaking.

"Harry, I need you to do me a big favor." I stressed my words.

"You saved my life time and time again, I think I'd do most favors you ask of me."

"Don't go admitting that, I just might abuse it." I tried to joke. I then undid all my charms and unlocked the drawer. It still held the locket.

I placed it on the table on the corner of my desk. "Harry, what I need you to do is open this with parseltongue, then when it opens hold it steady.

Do not listen to what it has to say, if I don't strike it fast enough.it will try and manipulate you."

I then pulled out my dagger. "Is this another cursed item?"

"Yes, it's much like Riddle's diary. Now please open it if you will."

Harry got on his knees at the corner of my desk then he hissed at the locket. The locket sprung open it spoke in a hissing sound, "Harry Po-"

"Oh shut up." I brought my knife down into the center. It released an impactful burst of magic knocking both of us down.

A black mist floated up from the locket then dissipated into the air. "It knew my name Professor."

"As soon as you touched it, the thing learned what it needed to in order to best manipulate you."

"It was very much like the diary, at least it's dead like the other one, right?"

"Yes very much so." I then dismissed Harry to go about his day. I looked down at the other tables.

Cedric looked to still be shaken from his experience but it was better than dead. Fleur and Krum would go back to their schools. I thought about saying a proper goodbye.

However I thought better of it. Knowing that after this she would meet Bill at Gringotts. Which then reminded me. I ran after the twins as they started to leave for the station.

"Boys, I heard you didn't quite make your goal so I thought I'd chip in." I took some of the extra money that I'd chosen to take out of the bank. Then gave it to the two boys.

"Thanks Professor, if you ever need a product from us you'll be sure to get it out a discount." Fred said. George counted the money.

"Fred, there's over 200 galleons in here." He told his brother.

"Are you sure Professor?"

"Yeah, in the coming times we'll need something to lift our spirits." I then paused, "Maybe Harry can help out too, I'm sure he'd love the idea."

I then left to two to celebrate as I made my way back to the castle. It had been a long school year.

The end for this year as a whole wouldn't be in sight for some time. I had many plans to make but we were three horcruxes down and one step closer to saving the world.

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