Categories > Books > Harry Potter > Harry Potter and the power of Oa
Harry Potter and the Power of Oa
By: Bluminous
A/N: I don’t own Harry Potter or DC comics.
Chapter 25: The Second Task
January 9, Beauxbatons
“Nice outfit Harry” Fleur commented as the Hogwarts Champion emerged from the garden and to the starting point at the beach. Harry was wearing a skin tight dive suit, exposing his muscular physique to the admiration of the females nearby.
“I got enough ribbing from Kara and Daphne earlier” Harry said and glanced back at Kara, Daphne and Hermione who were grinning at him from the stands. Like the first task, the Champions’ families were allowed special seats on the stands. Diana, Astraea and Zatanna were also there cheering Harry on.
“There’s nothing embarrassing to hide, and in fact you should be proud of what you have.” Fleur said and Harry grinned.
“You’re the one to talk, how come you’re wearing a one piece silver swimsuit rather the one you usually wore in The Warrior?” Harry asked as he remembered the usual revealing two piece bikinis Fleur wore on board the Wayne’s massive yacht.
“I do not plan on giving these hooligans their wet dreams for the next month. Unlike here I have privacy on board the Warrior.” Fleur said.
“I understand… hey Monsieur Devereux’s here, good luck alright?” Harry said as he watched the Triwizard Organizer and official representative approach them.
“Thanks Harry. You too.” Fleur replied. The two champions lined up with Viktor Krum who was wearing red board shorts and Neville who was wearing black shorts.
“Greetings Champions and Students! In this Second task, the Champions need to recover Four Magical Artifacts that went missing from Beauxbatons’ collection. They have an hour to bring back the artifacts, and full points will be given to the champion who arrives earliest and in the most efficient manner.” Monsieur Devereux said.
“At my signal, you may begin!” Monsieur Devereux slashed his wand downwards creating magical sparks of green and red and a loud sound.
“BANG!”
Fleur, Viktor, and Neville immediately rushed to the sea, running at first and then slowly walking as the water got to about four feet. Harry immediately pulled his fins on and jumped and waded into the sea and as he got to about three feet he submerged, and the crowd could see a figure moving swiftly beneath the waves immediately catching up with the other champions.
“And Look at that! Harry Wayne is using a muggle device to swim faster! Oh Look at Fleur Heartbreaker Delacour in that sexy silver thing! That should be banned for making a lot of pants tight!!”
Fleur stopped and looked back at the shore in irritation, and cast a bubble charm on herself and dived beneath the waves so that she wouldn’t hear the mysterious commentator.
Harry momentarily stopped as the water got deeper; he cast a modified bubble charm on himself and followed Fleur into the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. Viktor cast a transfiguration spell on himself, and his head and neck morphed into the head and gills of a grey shark. A fin emerged from his back and as the transfiguration process was completed he too sank beneath the waves.
“Harry Wayne and Fleur ”I love you” Delacour used a bubble head charm on themselves and… that’s a bit disturbing, but impressive and effective as Viktor Krum used a transfiguration spell on himself to turn into a half a shark!.... and look at Longbottom, he looks like he wants to throw up!”
Neville was indeed left behind as he struggled as his skin shifted and strange and unfamiliar sensations wracked his body. A moment later, his body finally transformed and he dived into the water and breathed in through his gills.
Neville grinned as he noticed his webbed hands and feet. He felt at home in the water and decided to show up to the crowd and his fans. He swam nearer to the shore at great speed and leapt high of the water like a dolphin. Unfortunately he was at the shallow water and crashed on the sand and lied there like a beach whale, twitching every so often. The crowd gasped at what they saw as a sea monster emerged from the sea.
“Of all things divine and Holy! That’s one ugly motherfucker!”
The sand was soft and Neville was unhurt, and he slowly disappeared into the waves, embarrassed at his performance. With the aid of his webbed hands and feet, he quickly caught of with the other champions.
*********
The champions struggled as the path to the island proved to be difficult as Coral reefs and strange underwater rock formations marred their path. Although the current was not strong, the visibility was poor, and they were all forced to slow down. Fleur had a hard time as the full bubblehead charm distorted her sight and depth perception and she was forced to slow down. Harry though had modified his charm and the bubble only engulfed his nose and mouth, but even with these modifications, progress was slow.
Viktor Krum proved to be an amusing sight, as he constantly bumped his head on everything he passed by, as a shark’s vision was not at all great. Thankfully the shark’s thick and rough skin shielded him from scratches and injuries from the sharp coral, though remora fish continued to swim beside him near his neck. It proved irritating as the fish bit off some of his chest hair making him twitch from time to time.
Neville though was another story as he zoomed around them, though he had no idea where to go, and decided to tail the slow party.
After a grueling 20 minutes of navigating the reefs, the champions finally heard the singing of mermaids. Neville immediately swam ahead, and soon he disappeared over the crest of the reef. Harry followed him quickly and stopped for a moment to admire the wondrous sight.
Large shells and reefs with beautiful colors adorned the underwater valley and Mermaids swam past them singing and waving at him. Some were enticing him with a subtle finger beckoning him to go with them, and Harry observed that these mermaids looked very similar to Veela that they had the same long silvery blonde hair. Harry ignored them however and continued swimming and he saw Neville swimming already back towards the crest of the reef,, a blue and silver jeweled wand in his right hand.
He found a table made of coral and it was guarded by four mermaids, and on top of the coral table three wands of different colors. He looked back and saw Viktor and Fleur in his tail and he immediately headed down to the coral table.
Harry immediately grabbed the one of the wands and secured it beside his own wand on his wrist. He pushed off with the help of his fins, he wanted to catch Neville Longbottom, and swam faster, this time using his hands together with his feet.
After five minutes he finally saw Neville Longbottom it looked like the Gyffindor was struggling with his pace as he was swimming slowly compared to his blistering pace earlier. Harry looked at his watch and noticed that it was already 45 minutes into the task, he knew there was some distance to go and kept his steady pace. He caught up with Neville and soon went passed him, and noticed the boy was breathing hard through the gills in his neck… Neville was tired, he used most of his energy during the first part of the task.
Finally Harry saw the shallows, and he glanced behind and saw Fleur, Viktor and Neville behind him giving their last bit of energy. But it was too late as Harry had too much of a lead and he emerged from sea to the cheers and applause from the crowd. He took off his fins and walked towards the Champion’s area and offered the wand back to Monsieur Devereux.
“And Harry Wayne is the first to complete the task at a blistering pace of 48 minutes 32 seconds! What an amazing show of physical stamina and coordination!”
Harry noticed a table filled with pitchers of cold water and other juices and he immediately grabbed a glass and drained it empty, thirsty from the nearly hour long task. He looked back and smiled as Viktor and Fleur emerged from the sea exhausted. Although Viktor had superior stamina, he had to reverse his self transfiguration and that proved crucial as Fleur managed to race past the Quidditch Star for second place.
“Fleur Delacour emerges from the sea dripping literally like a wet dream! She secures second place with a good time of 52 minutes and 45 seconds, while Dursmstrang Champion Viktor “don’t bite me!” Krum clocks in at a respectable time of 53 minutes and 12 seconds!”
Fleur was so exhausted that she didn’t even react to the comments of the mysterious commentator, while Viktor gulped down glass after glass of water. A few minutes later Harry noticed Neville had transformed back and was now crawling to the shore like a beached whale. The fourth and last champion finally managed to reach the champion’s area breathing heavily.
“Neville Longbottom finally arrives just within the time limit of 59 minutes 42 seconds!”
“That was harder than I expected, navigating from the beach to the island was challenging.” Harry said as Fleur and Viktor sat on either side of the bench he was on.
“I will have a bad headache later… even now since I hit so many corals on the way to the mermaid colony.” Viktor said while he massaged his near bald head to ease some of the discomfort.
“I almost collapsed in exhaustion. And the water was very cold. I never want to do that again.” Fleur said as healers checked the various scrapes and bruises the champions had gotten from swimming near the sharp coral.
“Our scores are here” Harry said amid the cheers and applause of the crowd. Devereux approached the champions and held up his hands to silence the crowd.
“After deliberation from the judges, we agreed to give Monsieur Harry Wayne a score of 49 points of a possible 50 for accomplishing the second task quickest. Mademoiselle Fleur Delacour has a score of 48 points for arriving second, and Monsieur Viktor Krum a score of 47 for arriving third.” Devereux said as he read from the score sheet.
“Monsieur Neville Longbottom has a score of 46 points, for arriving fourth but he still arrived within the one hour time limit. Although…” Devereux narrowed his eyes as he read a comment from one of the judges. He continued reading with disbelief in his voice. “…one of the judges insisted that I announce his comment: that Monsieur Longbottom has shown Cultural Finesse for… being polite to the mermaids?”
“cultural Finesse my butt! He just fondled that mermaid’s tits! I would have done that too! You showed Balls there Longbottom!”
“Who said that? I demand to know who keeps on insisting on broadcasting his immature and childish opinions, thereby disrupting the tournament!” Devereux shouted as he looked at the crowd. No one seemed to have heard his outburst as the audience laughed and cheered their champions on.
“So that was why he was swimming back so fast! …he was running away from a mad colony of Mermaids!” Fleur exclaimed while Harry and Viktor exchanged amused looks. The mermaids were topless, but they had too much maturity and control to let it bother them. It seemed Neville lacked both as he faced a dozen half naked half fish woman.
“Well I hope he had a good grope… it would be the last time he will be swimming in these seas. Look at the shore.” Viktor said and Fleur and Harry followed his gaze.
“Wow they look mad.” Harry sniggered as he saw the heads of the mermaids poking out of the water. They were looking at Neville though said boy was unaware as he drank the water while being attended by the healers. The three champions even saw one of the mermaids made a slashing gesture to her neck to indicate Neville was dead, while the others slammed the water with their tales in displeasure.
After a few minutes of recuperating, the four champions were lead inside the tent, where the four judges awaited with them.
“Champions…” Monsieur Devereux approached, carrying the wands the four retrieved in the second task. “You will notice, that the wands you have received are different from one another. Each wand represents a direction from which you will start in a maze. Monsieur Longbottom, wave the wand you have picked please” Devereux said as he handed each wand back to the champions.
Neville did so and blue sparks came out his wand, and a large letter N. “You will start from the north.” Devereux said. Harry and Fleur had East and West respectively, while Viktor had south. Once the four champions had confirmed the directions, Devereux continued to brief them.
“Since Mademoiselle Fleur and Monsieur Harry are tied in first place with 84 points each, they will both start at the maze we will build at the same time on the thirtieth of March. Monsieur Viktor and Monsieur Neville will then head next after a minute since they are both tied in second place with 79 points. This is very exciting indeed!” Devereux exclaimed.
“Very exciting indeed, I would have never anticipate that it would be such a closely contested tournament!” Madame Olympe said. “The English Ministry wizards have kindly offered their help in building the maze, and so Champions, prepare for there are things inside the maze that will test you to you limits.”
“Indeed. You have two months to prepare, Champions. Use it well, as this will be the most difficult task of them all.” Dumbledore added as he gazed at Neville Longbottom, and only Harry noticed this.
************
January 12, East Garden, Beauxbatons
“There’s nothing I can see that would indicate foul play. I’ve checked the three aurors that accompanied Crouch Senior, and I know they were not supporters of pureblood supremacists.” Rita Skeeter made her report to the mysterious figure who still clad in the unrevealing black clothes.
“Good. What about Crouch Senior? Is he acting in a suspicious manner? He could have tampered with the Goblet.” Harry asked. He tossed a sack of Galleons towards Rita and the reporter eagerly caught it and stuffed it in her purse.
“No… you couldn’t find a more Light Wizard than Crouch himself…” Rita said as she smiled at her mysterious client. “He was a top candidate to become the Minister of Magic before the scandal… he was brutal, he sentenced hundreds of supporters of You know Who to Azkaban, and he even managed to convince the Wizengamot to authorize his Auror Forces to use the Unforgivables against the Death Eaters.”
“What scandal?” Harry asked, he never heard about this.
“Well shortly after the downfall of He Who must not be named by the boy who lived… may he rest in peace… his son was captured along with Bellatrix Lestrange, her husband Rodulphus and brother in law Rabastan as they tortured the Longbottoms to insanity with the Cruciatus Curse. Imagine the scandal!” Rita exclaimed as she remembered the rumors and speculations during the chaotic time. “And Crouch Senior sentenced his son… his son! To life imprisonment in Azkaban without so much as a blink. I think he wanted to protect his candidacy in the Ministry in the upcoming elections that time… but the damage was done.”
“And his son?” Harry asked. this was intriguing, he was glad he recruited Rita into his network.
“Well, the official records say he died in prison… but the Auror I knew who is posted in the Auror garrison in Azkaban said that someone escaped… someone who was supposed to be dead. Barty Crouch Junior was found dead in the living room of Alastor Moody’s house. He escaped Azkaban!” Rita whispered. “Of course you wouldn’t tell anyone would you? I got this information through questionable means, its suppose to be top secret.”
“Of course… here a bonus for this new bit of information.” Harry tossed another sack of gold to the reporter. “You will receive a message from me and we will meet again in a time and place I will indicate if I need your services. Good day Rita” Harry needed to report this to Sirius and his Dad.
“You certainly know how to keep this reporter Happy. I’ll be waiting.” Rita smirked and peered closer to get a better look at the mysterious person, she was curious about the identity of her mysterious client.
“Who are you honey? Tell me I won’t tell a soul.” Rita teased, she was quite sure this person was not out to harm her. “You’re rich… and by your voice you sound young… twenty’s perhaps? You know that’s legal for more intimate affairs.”
“I’m not your type Rita.” Harry said.
“But are you sure?” Rita asked. She looked at her newly done nails and continued. “I am very skilled, and having young lover will be very pleasurable for me… and I will teach you many… many things. How about it? one peek at that mask you’re wearing?” Rita looked up and found her client gone, she didn’t even hear him leave.
“Crap. Oh well, time for a vacation.” Rita muttered as she patted her purse, heavy with galleons. Her client’s word was good as his gold, and she was very, very happy. If she kept this up, with the bribes from politicians and her considerable salary at the daily prophet, she can retire soon in a private villa here in Marseille. She found the place relaxing, and it was full of young handsome and virile young men. Rita looked around to see if someone was observing her and disappeared into the shadows of the garden.
********
February 10, The Warrior, Marseille
The Hogwarts delegation was given a week to rest and relax, as well as enjoy the city of Marseille, provided that the student’s parents had given them permission. Of course Mrs. Granger and Mrs. Greengrass, eager to see their daughters immediately gave their permission and indicated in their letters that they would meet them on board The Warrior.
The massive Wayne yacht had docked two days ago in the port of Marseille as Bruce Wayne needed to finalize his business deals with Gerard Delacour, and also to spend some quality time with his son and family.
Gerard Delacour had heard from his daughter and from the muggle news about the new cooking sensation, and had requested a meal cooked by Chef Harry. Harry reluctantly agreed, though he still considered himself an amateur Chef that only liked to experiment and watch cooking shows like Jamie Oliver’s, Iron Chef America and his favorite chef, Giada de Laurentiis. He once had a crush on the beautiful Italian American when he was eight, to Kara’s amusement.
“Finally! Boy that was hard. I hope your father like this.” Harry said as he removed a large tray from the oven and placed it on the counter to cool.
“He will love this Harry, Lasagna is his favorite dish, and when you add the other plates you prepared, he will have a full stomach by the end of lunch. Oh that smells good!” Fleur said as she peered at the steaming hot Lasagna, its cheese slightly toasted. Harry had used many varieties of cheese in the dish and it filled the room making the three girls’ mouth water.
“I hope so. I better take a quick shower. Don’t touch this okay? It’s still hot.” Harry said as he wiped the sweat off his brow and disappeared from the kitchen.
“MMMm… Have you ever seen anything so delicious?” Hermione said as she inhaled the delectable dish.
“No… and I’m getting hungry from just smelling it. I want to taste the Lasagna…” Daphne said as she slowly moved her hand to get a sample.
“No it’s for Fleur’s dad!” Hermione slapped her friends hand away, though she herself wanted to take a good dip with her finger. “Harry said not to touch this!”
“But I’m hungry! And it’s sooo good!” Daphne pouted.
Fleur licked her lips and moved closer to the dish and smelled the cheese. “It is. Harry’s very talented.”
Daphne crossed her arms… and she looked for a way to sample the dish. “Hermione look, the cheese on the edge of the tray is allowed isn’t it?” She took a wooden spatula and scooped the excess cheese and tasted it. “Oh yeah that’s the stuff!”
“Let me taste!” Hermione said and tried some for herself. “Oh yeah! Yummy!”
Fleur did not want to be left behind and tried some too, and soon the edges of the tray was sparkling clean, though the stolen tastes only increased the three girls’ hunger. Fleur absently twirled the wooden spatula and smudged the side of the lasagna.
“Oh look, it got hit. That’s too bad.” Fleur said as she looked at the broken cheesy crust of the dish. She used the spatula and licked the cheesy goodness.
“Look at what you have done!” Hermione said. “The dish is ruined. And it’s not even, we should fix the other side to make it more even.” Hermione grabbed the spatula from Fleur and grazed the other side. She ate the cheese and some of the pasta and moaned. “Wow the pasta’s good and the flavors… Wow!”
“Hermione… it’s not symmetrical again! This side needs to be fixed!” Daphne said and snatched the spatula from her friend and shoved it deeper into the tray, scooping out a good amount of cheeses, pasta, vegetables and meat. She shoved the scoop into her mouth and declared. “I’m in Lasagna heaven!”
That was the signal and the three girls took out spoons from the counter and began feasting on the Lasagna, not caring as their faces were smudged with the cheese and sauce.
Kara found them as she carried Astraea on her arms, and she was shocked at the very unlady like behavior the usual prim and proper girls were acting.
“What are you doing?” Kara said while Astraea giggled and bounced in her arms at the amusing sight. Fleur, Hermione and Daphne immediately stopped the rape of the Lasagna and looked at her as they chewed, their mouths stuffed with food.
“Uhh… Quality control?” Hermione said as she swallowed what she was chewing. Fleur and Daphne looked at the tray and found it was almost empty.
“Oh no…” Fleur said. “What have we done?” She gazed at the remaining pasta and scooped out some more with her finger.
“We ruined Harry’s dish!” Daphne said as she copied her friends actions. “But… it's sooo good!”
Kara laughed in amusement, she understood her friends' actions, and she hoped Harry would not take this badly. “When Harry sees this… oh here he is.” She giggled softly as she struggled to breathe.
Harry entered the kitchen, his hair wet from the shower, and stopped, shocked at the sight. His previously pristine tray was now gone… and he looked at the culprits.
Fleur, Hermione, and Daphne immediately hid their spoons behind their backs, although the sides of their guilty mouths were still stained with the sauce and cheese. He even saw Hermione lick the side of her lips to get another taste.
“Sorry Harry…” Fleur said. “I will explain to my father what happened. It’s your fault actually, you made such an amazing dish! It is irresistible!”
Harry chuckled then it proved too much as he laughed along with Kara. “Your faces! You look like clowns!” Harry took out towel paper from the dispenser and handed them to the three marauding culprits. “It’s fine… I prepared another tray for you girls since I thought we would have our own dinner on the deck away from the adults. But since you ate the main course, you’ll have to do with the salad and appetizers I made.”
“YEY!” The three girls cheered. They got off the hook.
"But... Me, Kara and Astraea will have Lasagna while your girls don't." Harry smirked. this was the punishment.
"Awwww" Fleur, Hermione and Daphne said in unison.
**********
Cursing to the high heavens, Earth Orbit, Skull Squadron exercises.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP”
“God damnit!” Jack Baker said as his sensors indicated he was hit. “That guy’s ridiculous!” He looked at the dogfight as he saw his squadron get shut down one by one. Only Rick Hunter, the Sterling Siblings and Karen Penn were left from the original eight that was sent to engage in a mock fight with the white VF-3.
He joined his “dead” squadron into a higher orbit to observe the dogfight. Whoever the pilot of the white VF-3 was performing intense maneuvers that the skull squadron struggled to imitate.
The formation of the four VF-3 headed by their wing commander Maximillian Sterling immediately dispersed as the White VF-3 flew past their formation. The four gray VF-3 followed their target, but it was too quick and agile for them. Jack Baker pushed into a few buttons to listen to the intercom to get a better idea of how tough their opponent was.
“Bogey’s at my six! Where the hell did he come from! Mir get him out of my tail!” Karen Penn’s voice was heard and Rick looked at where his teammate was. Her gray VF-3 was pursued relentlessly by the White VF-3, trying to get a proper angle of attack for his virtual missiles to launch.
“I’m coming Karen!” Miriya Sterling said as she joined the Dogfight. The white Veritceh fighter increased its speed and engaged full reverse thrusters and without losing time it pulled up to avoid the pin down. It rolled and twisted to avoid a target lock by Rick Hunter’s VF-3 and pursued the Wing Commander’s Veritech fighter who was alone as its wingman left him.
“God damnit Rick! Get back here!” Max Sterling screamed out. “Bogey’s on my six… Urgghh.” Max said as he tried to perform a sharp turn as the intense G forces assaulted his body. His maneuver was good but the White VF-3 followed smoothly, and while he tried to recuperate and regain his bearings his sensors immediately indicated he was dead.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP”
“Shit I’m dead.” The Wing commander immediately joined the rest of the “dead squadron,” hovering at 12 to get a better view.
“He’s on my tail again!” Karen screamed as she tried erratic maneuvers. “he’s getting a lock!” Karen said as her voice cockpit warned of the locking sensors. She copied her opponents earlier move and slammed the brakes hoping the White VF-3 would overshoot past him, but no trail of thrusters appeared past her cockpit.
“Shit.” Karen breathed out and was rewarded with a loud beep. Her opponent must have sensed what she was about to do, and with great disappointment Karen joined her inactive squadron.
“Who the hell is that guy?” Karen asked. She was one of the newer members of Skull Squadron, having finished her tour of duty on the Carrier Battle Group USS Independence. “He’s not human I tell you, I was at my limit!”
“You’ll see Karen. Looks like Rick’s the only one left.” Max Sterling replied. The two Veritech Fighters were engaged in a furious chase, and the remaining member of Skull Squadron was the only one remaining as it pursued the bogey. Suddenly the White VF-3’s legs engaged and it dropped under the chassis as its thruster legs engaged and it rotated in space. It caught the pursuing VF-3 of Rick Hunter by surprise, as one second he was chasing the bogey and a split second later it was facing him with virtual guns blazing.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!”
“Damn, I almost got the kid.” Rick said as he pulled up and joined his squadron in formation. The White VF-3 joined them, and flew behind the formation..
“Exercise is over. Let’s head back to Watchtower 2.” Max Sterling said and one by one the Veritechs disengaged, following their Wing Commander to base.
As the Veritech fighters landed on their respective hangars, Karen jumped from her cockpit and approached Rick Hunter.
“You said Kid right? Who is the pilot of that white VF-3?” Karen asked as she removed the instruments attached to her flight suit.
“We just called him white leader, but I heard his name’s Harry. Here he comes, c’mon I’ll introduce you.” Rick said as he spotted the White VF-3 land down on its own hangar, with a stunning blonde woman waiting for the pilot to climb down.
Karen’s eyes widened as she spotted the pilot remove his helmet. “He’s so young! What 15? 16?”
“Fourteen actually… you signed the non disclosure agreement right? That’s Bruce Wayne’s son, Harry Wayne. He developed the Veritech Fighter since VF 1. It’s all thanks to him that we developed the Veritech so fast, his inputs were valuable.” Rick Hunter said. “You should have seen him during the shakedowns of the VF 1 , VF 2 and the VF 3, he pushed the fighter to their limits and then some.”
“The Wayne Heir? Chef Harry?!... but… but… how did he become so good?” Karen asked as he observed the Wayne heir talking to what Karen thought was his girlfriend.
“That’s the big secret. Kid’s a natural pilot, and his tolerance to G-forces is unbelievable.” Rick said as he took off the own instruments attached to his suit and stored the electronic equipment in his helmet.. “I remembered when we first watched his performance on the VF-2, we all thought that has got to be a UAV program flying the thing. But then we saw the video of the inside of the cockpit and saw this kid flying it! Shocked the hell out of the squadron, I gotta tell you that.”
“No wonder we couldn’t catch him! He’s the test pilot! He knew the capabilities of the fighter inside out.” Karen said. “Hey you said you’ll introduce me right?”
“Oh Yeah” Rick said and turned to Harry. “Hey! Harry!” The Wayne heir looked at their direction and waved and headed towards them with his girlfriend walking beside him.
“Hello Lieutenant Rick, C’mon stop saluting me, I told you that for the hundredth time.” Harry said.
“It’s a habit Harry, and it’s a sign of respect for your phenomenal skills. You might have noticed, but the whole squadron salutes you. Anyway, meet the newest member to the Skull Squadron, Lieutenant Karen Penn, U.S. Air Force.” Rick said as the female pilot saluted the Wayne heir.
Harry saluted back, and held a hand to shake. “Good to have you with us Lieutenant Penn. That was some good flying.” Harry said as the Karen shook his hand. “I’ve got to go back, nice meeting you!”
Karen watched as Harry Wayne and his girlfriend disappear to the private lockers. “Maybe I should learn how to cook to, that might help me improve my piloting skills.”
*********
March 29, Third Task Maze, Beauxbatons
“We have to hurry, the creatures will be placed later.” Barty Crouch senior said to the French and British Aurors as he carried the TriWizard cup from the grand hall to the maze. “I’ll take carry this directly towards the center, while you assist the keepers, we don’t want any accidents do we?”
“Yes Monsieur Crouch.” The French Female Auror replied. “How long before the first creatures will be placed inside?”
“In Ten minutes… that… is why we must hurry. Go, I can handle carrying this simple thing.” Barty Crouch Senior gave a tight smile to his two escorts.
“If you’re sure, Mister Crouch. I’ll wait for you at the north entrance.” The British Auror replied.
Crouch Senior nodded and carried the Cup deeper into the 20 foot high hedge maze. His will was commanded by the Dark Lord, keeping a tight leash to ensure his obedience. But his thoughts were free.
The Dark Lord said that Dumbledore was playing into his trap, the determination of the Headmaster of Hogwarts to see through with his weapon’s survival will ultimately lead to the rebirth of Lord Voldemort, terrible and more powerful than ever before. He must find a way to warn the Dumbledore, but the Dark Lord’s will was stronger than his own.
The snake had mutated as it absorbed the energies the Black Heart Jewel emitted, and it grew into a grotesque snakelike humanoid form. He feared for the worse, he hoped someone would be able to stop this. By his master’s command, he cast several subtle charms and wards to ensure that whatever creature that will be placed on the northern path would not bother Longbottom later on. As he reached the central stone podium, he placed the TriWizard cup into its stand, and whispered.
“Portus”
The TriWizard cup glowed an ominous blue light, before it faded, and it silver trims shined under the moonlight. It stood there, a seemingly innocent cup, perfect for a trap.
**********
March 30, Hedge Maze, Beauxbatons
“Welcome to the Third and Final Task of the Triwizard Tournament! I would like to acknowledge and welcome the presence of our esteemed guests, Minister Cornelius Fudge of Britain, Minister Allen Brown of United States of Americ, Minister Grishoff Knott of Bulgaria and our very own Minister Jaques Villard of France!” Monsieur Devereux said as the Ministers stood up as their names were called and waved at the crowd.
“Now give a hand for our Champions!” Monsieur Devereux waved his hand theatrically at the tent housing the Champions
The crowds were cheered and roared as the Champions walked out of the tent and headed to their sides of the maze, waving at their friends and families. Thousands came, from the Ministers of the various magical governments, to the wizarding press and other Witches and Wizards, eager to see the historic and prestigious climax of the Tournament.
Twenty minutes later, the champions were in position Monsieur Devereux began his speech. “As Monsieur Wayne, and Mademoiselle Delacour, are tied for first place…” He paused as the crowd cheered wildly.
“They will have a minute head start, while Monsieur Krum and Monsieur Longbottom…” Devereux paused again as their supporters cheered wildly.
Devereux continued. “… will start a minute later as they are both tied in second place! A very exciting task, as anyone can win! Champions! At the sound of my wand, the two champions tied for first place must immediately enter the maze! After the second sound, Krum and Longbottom will follow…”
“The Triwizard cup is placed in the middle of the maze by Bartemius Crouch Senior, head of the International Magical Cooperation Department of the ministry of Magic of Britain. The maze itself is filled with creatures and obstacles designed to challenge our champions’ skill in wizarding prowess and knowledge!”
Devereux glanced at the crowd and waved his wand.
“BOOOOM”
“Begin!” Devereux shouted and Harry and Fleur rushed into the maze from the east and west. The crowd went wild as they shouted their cheers to support their favorites. A minute later another sound was heard.
“BOOOOM!”
Viktor Krum and Neville Longbottom rushed to the maze, eager to catch up on the minute head start of the other two champions. The crowd went wild again, screaming their voices hoarse, as the third task began, and the game was on.
**********
Harry dodged the large pincer of the Acromantula blocking his path and sent a stunning curse towards the creature. The giant spider’s tough hide dispersed the curse though it slightly staggered as it shook off the curse’s effects. Harry used the moment and slid underneath the creature and punched its soft underbelly hard with his left fist.
The giant spider instantly collapsed as its insides were rattled with the shock of the strong punch. Harry spared a second to look at the spider to make sure it would not attack him when his back was turned and continued towards the center of the maze. He had already dispatched the various magical creatures in his path, from boggarts, Wild gnomes and even a low land troll, and by far the most challenging for him was the Acromantula. But that was just the magical creatures.
The tall twenty foot hedges that comprised as walls of the Maze were confusing to navigate, but the organizers decided that this wasn’t hard enough and added devils snare traps along the random sections. Harry had to transfigure a stick into a long knife so that he would be able to move quickly through the deadly plants, but it was still a time consuming and arduous task.
Instead of moving at a reasonable pace, he had take to a fast walk so that he can spot the deadly vines of the devils snare littering the sides and walls of the maze, eager to catch his foot or hand. Harry heard a high pitch shriek, and he smiled, fleur must have encountered her greatest fear in the boggart, though he was confident she could handle it. He wondered how the other Champions were doing and continued on.
*********
“Not again…” Neville muttered as he encountered a dead end. The third task was surprisingly easy, though he did a girly scream when he spotted a frozen sphinx, but he was glad that no one heard him. He was about to double back when the wall of plants in front of him suddenly wilted away revealing a new path.
Neville grinned and rushed forward not noticing the frozen trolls and Acromantulas in the dark corners. This was easy! Neville used the point me spell Dumbledore taught him and hurried towards the center, he could fell the cup was nearer.
*********
Harry ran past another tangle of Devil’s snare and rolled to the ground as other vines attempted to coil around his neck. He immediately got back up and stopped for a moment to regain his bearings. A glint caught his eye and he turned his head and smiled.
The Trwizard cup stood on its stone podium, waiting for its champion. He moved past and stopped when he heard another footstep on his right.
“Fleur” Harry smiled. “I was wondering when you will get here.”
“Harry.” Fleur stopped for a moment to regain her breathing. “Good to see you. Have you seen a large hairy spider?”
“Yeah. I punched it in the gut. So, foot race then?” Harry asked as he gazed at the Triwizard cup, 100 feet away from them.
“If you’re sure. On three?” Fleur replied.
“Alright… Three!” Harry sprinted forward and Fleur ran beside him, matching his long strides. Suddenly they both slowed down and gradually to a halt.
“Just my luck.” Harry breathed out.
“Mine too… how did he get here?” Fleur said, disappointment in her voice. “I mean, I was ally hyped up, ready for a sprint to the cup but this is a very big let down.”
“I know.” Harry replied as they both sat on the ground as Neville Longbottom grabbed the cup to claim the title of Triwizard Champion.
“Look at me! Look at me! I’m the champion EEEEEEeeee!” Neville screamed as he felt the tug on his navel as the portkey activated.
“Was that supposed to happen?” Fleur asked.
“No… Devereux said the first to get the cup would activate the fireworks and that we would announce the TriWizard Champion. I don’t hear any cheers or see any fireworks.” Harry replied as he began to imagine possible scenarios in his mind.
“I’ll call for help then” Fleur said as she sent two red sparks in the air, and within a minute two wizards in large brooms hovered above them.
“Monsieur Wayne? Mademoiselle Delacour? You need assistance?” A female French auror asked.
“We need a ride. Take me to Bartemius Crouch Senior.” Harry replied as his face lost all the fun he was having in the last twenty minutes.
**********
Little Hagedon Cemetery, Britain
“Where am I” Neville asked as he looked around the cemetery. He fearfully dropped the Triwizard cup and gasped when a figure emerged from the shadows of one of the large tombstones.
“Neville Longbottom… we meet again.” Lord Voldemort smiled at his nemesis. “Congratulations on winning the TriWizard tournament, but I fear we will need to talk later… once the ritual will be complete and I have regained my body.”
Neville froze in fear as he looked at the reptilian face of Lord Voldemort. The Dark Lord was hideous, as he stood six feet tall with a thin human like body and curved scaly arms, while a long tail trailed along the end of his spine.
Finally Neville snapped from his fear and ran for his life. He was able to dodge the spells as he ran past the tombstones but one pinned him right on the back and he fell down on the ground, out cold.
Voldemort dragged him back by his leg, and after a few meters the most feared Dark Lord in the universe stopped as he looked at his unconscious prey. “You’re too heavy, Longbottom.” He waved his hand and floated the boy towards the tombstone of his father.
***********
Harry jumped before the broom landed and glanced at his father in stands. He nodded his head and Bruce understood and whispered to Diana and Kara that Harry expected trouble. Diana immediately clutched her baby daughter tightly into her arms and stood up and headed towards the grounds, followed by Kara and Bruce and Zatanna.
Harry pushed past the press and used his superior strength to move them out of the way as the reporters rushed to him and Fleur to ask questions.
“Mr. Wayne!”
Harry turned around and spotted Dumbledore and McGonagall running towards him.
“What happened? Why did you give up?” McGonagall asked as she inspected her student for injuries.
“Neville got the cup first…” Harry said and frowned as Dumbledore beamed in happiness.
“But as soon as he touched the cup, he disappeared, the Triwizard cup is a portkey?” Harry continued.
“Are you sure?” Dumbledore asked, his eyes instantly changing from the kind old man to the powerful wizard that Lord Voldemort even avoided a fight with.
“Yes, I saw the telltale signs of displaced wind and air… now I must go to my family. Headmaster, Professor.” Harry nodded to the two Hogwarts staff and disappeared among the crowds.
Dumbledore hurried past the crowd and reached Madame Maxime as her champion was reporting what she saw.
The headmistress of Beauxbatons noticed Dumbledore approaching and asked. “Your champion told you then? One of the champions has been kidnapped, Neville Longbottom through the use of a portkey.”
“Yes, young Harry Wayne told me. I fear I played into his trap. We must find him, please ask the minister of France and Cornelius to come here too. We must rescue Neville.” Dumbledore replied as he wondered where Longbottom might have been taken… and how?
********
“When you first see him, you would not think he is under the spell but look closely at his eyes… they’re slightly dilated… unnoticeable when he wears those glasses of his. I need to bring him out of the spell… Zatanna?” Harry asked.
“I’m on it.” Zatanna said as she waved her hands as she gathered the mystic energies. She used them and severed the psychic tether controlling Crouch’s mind and the man immediately babbled what was on his mind as the leash was released.
“Lord Voldemort!... a plot… the black heart jewel…. Little Hagedon!” Crouch gasped out and he looked around and spotted the figure nearest to him and grabbed the person’s shirt. “He must not be allowed to continue the ritual! He must be stopped at all costs!” Crouch gasped out loud.
“Show me.” Harry said and he used his legillimency skills as he sifted through the man’s mind. After a moment he finally learned the whole plan of the Dark Lord and he stood up. The mind probe prove too much for Crouch and hes passed out in exhaustion.
“Voldemort’s on the move. He plans to use the Neville’s blood on a ritual to bring his body back and stole the Black Heart Jewel to boost his powers. The place is in Little Hagedon Cemetery in Britain. I’m going to rescue Neville and stop the ritual.” Harry said as his body glowed a familiar green and his clothes changed to the garb of Apollo.
“Agreed. But if it gets tough, get out of there and call for backup. Take care, I’ll wait aboard the Warrior and set up a Command and Control center for this crisis.” Bruce said and looked at the other Justice League member. “Zatanna, have Sirius Black and Nymphadora Tonks here with some of Harry’s clothes, we need a double for him. Also call Dr. Fate, I might need his help, ETA, five minutes. Go.”
Apollo nodded and he disappeared in a familiar pop while Zatanna immediately contacted the members Batman required. The Justice League was on the move.
***********
“Bone of My father…” Voldemort said aloud in fulfillment of the ritual and levitated his filthy muggle father’s bone and dropped it into a steaming large cauldron.
“Blood of the enemy… forcibly taken…” The Dark Lord sliced a cut with a ritual knife on Neville’s arms and flicked the blood on the cauldron. The boy moved slightly but he was still unconscious from the stunning spell and Voldemort grinned in anticipation. He wanted Longbottom to wake up and see the new form of the Dark Lord.
“Heart of evil, give me your power” Voldemort leaned over the Cauldron and regurgitated the Black Heart jewel in his gut, and it splashed at it joined the other ingredients in the mixture…
“My flesh willingly offered… I will be reborn!” Voldemort exclaimed and he dived head first into the cauldron.
The dark ritual was complete as dark energies gathered across the skies and a chilling wind blew across the graveyard. A thousand souls screamed in despair and terror as the Black Heart Jewel’s essence escaped through the Crystal casing and joined Voldemort’s resurrection. The cauldron bubbled and shook until black light erupted from it and bathed the graveyard in darkness.
Neville finally woke up and he immediately felt fear as he watched the terrifying sight. His arm hurt and he felt weak and cold and his eyes grew wide as he finally remembered what happened. Lord Voldemort was here! He struggled to stand and run but he felt something… an oppressive force was pushing him to the ground… pinning him with fear and terror. Neville just lied on the ground as he watched the rebirth of the Dark Lord.
The cascade of dark energies stopped flowing and where the Cauldron once stood was a shadow… a Dementor… six feet tall and emitting a strong frost aura felt around in the small graveyard. Light seemed to dim around the strange being and Neville pushed with his legs to get away from the creature. He could see his breathe in the sudden cold and his body shivered though he was not sure if it was from the cold or the fear paralyzing his body.
The Dementor took of his hood and Neville gasped as Lord Voldemort’s face looked down on him.
“How polite of you to stay and be the first to welcome me back… for this I will ensure that your death will be quick, though… it will not be painless a I fear.” Lord Voldemort said as his eyes burned with dark energies.
“By all means… run… shout... AMUSE ME!” Lord Voldemort said and Neville shivered when he heard the dark lord’s voice. It was deep, like the abyss itself was swallowing him whole.
“No? how sad… I expected even a meager bit of resistance from you.” Lord Voldemort said as he flexed and tested his new body. “Despair now… for no one even Dumbledore will be able to save you.”
Neville whimpered as he looked at the dark skies saturated with the evil energies, he would bear to look at the sky than look upon Lord Voldemort… it was hopeless… he was going to die.
A glint caught his eye and he thought that he would never be able to see light again… not this hideous terrifying undead glow that permeated everywhere. The light… Neville squinted as he focused on it and saw that it was green… bright green.
“What are you looking at Longbottom? Praying for help? How pathetic….” Lord Voldemort stopped his tirade as he too noticed the light.
A beam of light pierced through the dark and heavy clouds, piercing them like a lance. It streaked across the sky dispersing the darkness around it and it seemed to be heading towards Lord Voldemort.
“What manner of magic is this?” Lord Voldemort asked out loud and he leaped back as the beam of green light slammed between Neville Longbottom and the Dark Lord.
Neville felt the darkness recede as a strange being appeared before him, whoever he was, he was bathed in bright green light, pulsing ever so often, pushing back the fear and the cold. The figure was facing Lord Voldemort, and Neville could see from between the Green being’s feet the stunned face of Lord Voldemort.
“It seemed I arrived too late to stop you, Lord Voldemort.” The green being said as he stood protectively over Neville Longbottom.
“You… Hogwarts’ protector… yes I remember you! You stopped my servant from acquiring the stone! No matter… I will destroy you now… you have saved me from hunting you… and when I’m done… Hogwarts will be defenseless!” Voldemort said.
“Don’t be so sure.” Apollo said and he let out his power and sent a beam towards the Dark Lord. He was too late to stop the ritual, but he still needed to rescue Longbottom. He did not want not face something unknown as it appeared the dark lord had acquired a new body and strange powers of his own… like a Dementor’s.
Voldemort dodged the blast and gathered his dark energies in his arm and sent a beam towards the stranger. Harry dodged this and it hit a tombstone and shattered it, sending rubble flying round. Apollo wanted to take on the dark lord, but Neville still needed to be rescued. He needed a way to get Neville out, but the portal would take too much time and Voldemort could follow them.
He spotted the Portkey still glowing faintly and a plan immediately formed in his mind. He sent a few more beams to keep the Dark Lord distracted and dragged Longbottom towards the cup by his collar. He was about to push Neville to the portkey to activate it when the Dark Lord came out of nowhere and tackled him, intent on sucking out his soul when they both fell on Neville who in turn was pushed into the cup.
All three vanished amidst a class of energies from the graveyard and appeared in front of the stands to the shock and fear of the crowd watching the sudden appearance.
Albus Dumbledore’s eyes widened in shock as well as the Ministers of Magic as they saw the Dark Lord… thought long gone appear before their very eyes. Albus noticed Longbottom was there and… a strange being, burning with green aura fighting the Dark Lord.
Apollo gritted his teeth and summoned his power and kicked Voldemort from him, sending the Dark Lord though the hedges of the maze. Apollo immediately followed through and pursued Voldemort, intent on drawing his opponent away from the crowd to avoid casualties and collateral damage.
Albus immediately hurried to Neville to check on his condition and he breathed a sigh of relief when the boy seemed conscious.
“What happened Neville?” Albus asked as the Ministers of Magic stood by his side while the aurors tried to contain the panic that flowed through the crowd when the supposed to be dead Dark Lord suddenly appear before them.
“Lord… Voldeehmort… he’s back… he used my blood on a ritual… and he was suppose to kill me.” Neville shivered in fear. “But then he came… and stopped Lord… Voldeehmort. He called him Hogwart’s guardian.”
Albus’ eyes widened in surprise… so that was the guardian! He saved Longbottom! His word was true… when Hogwarts needed him the most he would appear… and his timing could not be more perfect!
“Albus! Is… that… He who must not be named?” Cornelius asked fearfully.
“Yes… and he used Longbottom’s blood in a ritual to bring him back. The Dark Lord appears to have acquired new powers … fortunately for us we have an ally.” Albus said. “But we must help this being...” He was interrupted as a powerful gust of wind blew his hat off, and it appears he was not the only one.
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!
An explosion was seen from the middle of the maze and it was so powerful that the hedges were blown off revealing a shocking sight. The green being was facing off against the Dark Lord in a display of power as they traded raw energies. The green being suddenly dived straight to Lord Voldemort, dispersing the dark lord’s attack with a hand and sent a fantastic punch to the Dark Lord’s face, sending him tumbling through the ground.
The punch was so strong that Albus could actually feel the blow and the impact, and he wished the punch would have knocked Voldemort’s head off clean from his body.
Voldemort was enraged… he was never beaten to the ground… it was humiliating… The guardian appeared to be more powerful than him… impossible! He needed to regroup… to study his power and gain new allies… as Dumbledore obviously found a strong one with this Hogwarts guardian. As the green being sent a surge of energy towards his position, Voldemort disappeared to the crowd’s applause and jubilation. It was the first time Lord Voldemort was pushed to retreat.
Apollo looked at the crowd… and it appeared that Albus and several officials were running towards him. He let his aura pulse to slow them down and disappeared in a flash of green light.
*********
A/N: Comments?/Suggestions?
This is UNBETAD
By: Bluminous
A/N: I don’t own Harry Potter or DC comics.
Chapter 25: The Second Task
January 9, Beauxbatons
“Nice outfit Harry” Fleur commented as the Hogwarts Champion emerged from the garden and to the starting point at the beach. Harry was wearing a skin tight dive suit, exposing his muscular physique to the admiration of the females nearby.
“I got enough ribbing from Kara and Daphne earlier” Harry said and glanced back at Kara, Daphne and Hermione who were grinning at him from the stands. Like the first task, the Champions’ families were allowed special seats on the stands. Diana, Astraea and Zatanna were also there cheering Harry on.
“There’s nothing embarrassing to hide, and in fact you should be proud of what you have.” Fleur said and Harry grinned.
“You’re the one to talk, how come you’re wearing a one piece silver swimsuit rather the one you usually wore in The Warrior?” Harry asked as he remembered the usual revealing two piece bikinis Fleur wore on board the Wayne’s massive yacht.
“I do not plan on giving these hooligans their wet dreams for the next month. Unlike here I have privacy on board the Warrior.” Fleur said.
“I understand… hey Monsieur Devereux’s here, good luck alright?” Harry said as he watched the Triwizard Organizer and official representative approach them.
“Thanks Harry. You too.” Fleur replied. The two champions lined up with Viktor Krum who was wearing red board shorts and Neville who was wearing black shorts.
“Greetings Champions and Students! In this Second task, the Champions need to recover Four Magical Artifacts that went missing from Beauxbatons’ collection. They have an hour to bring back the artifacts, and full points will be given to the champion who arrives earliest and in the most efficient manner.” Monsieur Devereux said.
“At my signal, you may begin!” Monsieur Devereux slashed his wand downwards creating magical sparks of green and red and a loud sound.
“BANG!”
Fleur, Viktor, and Neville immediately rushed to the sea, running at first and then slowly walking as the water got to about four feet. Harry immediately pulled his fins on and jumped and waded into the sea and as he got to about three feet he submerged, and the crowd could see a figure moving swiftly beneath the waves immediately catching up with the other champions.
“And Look at that! Harry Wayne is using a muggle device to swim faster! Oh Look at Fleur Heartbreaker Delacour in that sexy silver thing! That should be banned for making a lot of pants tight!!”
Fleur stopped and looked back at the shore in irritation, and cast a bubble charm on herself and dived beneath the waves so that she wouldn’t hear the mysterious commentator.
Harry momentarily stopped as the water got deeper; he cast a modified bubble charm on himself and followed Fleur into the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. Viktor cast a transfiguration spell on himself, and his head and neck morphed into the head and gills of a grey shark. A fin emerged from his back and as the transfiguration process was completed he too sank beneath the waves.
“Harry Wayne and Fleur ”I love you” Delacour used a bubble head charm on themselves and… that’s a bit disturbing, but impressive and effective as Viktor Krum used a transfiguration spell on himself to turn into a half a shark!.... and look at Longbottom, he looks like he wants to throw up!”
Neville was indeed left behind as he struggled as his skin shifted and strange and unfamiliar sensations wracked his body. A moment later, his body finally transformed and he dived into the water and breathed in through his gills.
Neville grinned as he noticed his webbed hands and feet. He felt at home in the water and decided to show up to the crowd and his fans. He swam nearer to the shore at great speed and leapt high of the water like a dolphin. Unfortunately he was at the shallow water and crashed on the sand and lied there like a beach whale, twitching every so often. The crowd gasped at what they saw as a sea monster emerged from the sea.
“Of all things divine and Holy! That’s one ugly motherfucker!”
The sand was soft and Neville was unhurt, and he slowly disappeared into the waves, embarrassed at his performance. With the aid of his webbed hands and feet, he quickly caught of with the other champions.
*********
The champions struggled as the path to the island proved to be difficult as Coral reefs and strange underwater rock formations marred their path. Although the current was not strong, the visibility was poor, and they were all forced to slow down. Fleur had a hard time as the full bubblehead charm distorted her sight and depth perception and she was forced to slow down. Harry though had modified his charm and the bubble only engulfed his nose and mouth, but even with these modifications, progress was slow.
Viktor Krum proved to be an amusing sight, as he constantly bumped his head on everything he passed by, as a shark’s vision was not at all great. Thankfully the shark’s thick and rough skin shielded him from scratches and injuries from the sharp coral, though remora fish continued to swim beside him near his neck. It proved irritating as the fish bit off some of his chest hair making him twitch from time to time.
Neville though was another story as he zoomed around them, though he had no idea where to go, and decided to tail the slow party.
After a grueling 20 minutes of navigating the reefs, the champions finally heard the singing of mermaids. Neville immediately swam ahead, and soon he disappeared over the crest of the reef. Harry followed him quickly and stopped for a moment to admire the wondrous sight.
Large shells and reefs with beautiful colors adorned the underwater valley and Mermaids swam past them singing and waving at him. Some were enticing him with a subtle finger beckoning him to go with them, and Harry observed that these mermaids looked very similar to Veela that they had the same long silvery blonde hair. Harry ignored them however and continued swimming and he saw Neville swimming already back towards the crest of the reef,, a blue and silver jeweled wand in his right hand.
He found a table made of coral and it was guarded by four mermaids, and on top of the coral table three wands of different colors. He looked back and saw Viktor and Fleur in his tail and he immediately headed down to the coral table.
Harry immediately grabbed the one of the wands and secured it beside his own wand on his wrist. He pushed off with the help of his fins, he wanted to catch Neville Longbottom, and swam faster, this time using his hands together with his feet.
After five minutes he finally saw Neville Longbottom it looked like the Gyffindor was struggling with his pace as he was swimming slowly compared to his blistering pace earlier. Harry looked at his watch and noticed that it was already 45 minutes into the task, he knew there was some distance to go and kept his steady pace. He caught up with Neville and soon went passed him, and noticed the boy was breathing hard through the gills in his neck… Neville was tired, he used most of his energy during the first part of the task.
Finally Harry saw the shallows, and he glanced behind and saw Fleur, Viktor and Neville behind him giving their last bit of energy. But it was too late as Harry had too much of a lead and he emerged from sea to the cheers and applause from the crowd. He took off his fins and walked towards the Champion’s area and offered the wand back to Monsieur Devereux.
“And Harry Wayne is the first to complete the task at a blistering pace of 48 minutes 32 seconds! What an amazing show of physical stamina and coordination!”
Harry noticed a table filled with pitchers of cold water and other juices and he immediately grabbed a glass and drained it empty, thirsty from the nearly hour long task. He looked back and smiled as Viktor and Fleur emerged from the sea exhausted. Although Viktor had superior stamina, he had to reverse his self transfiguration and that proved crucial as Fleur managed to race past the Quidditch Star for second place.
“Fleur Delacour emerges from the sea dripping literally like a wet dream! She secures second place with a good time of 52 minutes and 45 seconds, while Dursmstrang Champion Viktor “don’t bite me!” Krum clocks in at a respectable time of 53 minutes and 12 seconds!”
Fleur was so exhausted that she didn’t even react to the comments of the mysterious commentator, while Viktor gulped down glass after glass of water. A few minutes later Harry noticed Neville had transformed back and was now crawling to the shore like a beached whale. The fourth and last champion finally managed to reach the champion’s area breathing heavily.
“Neville Longbottom finally arrives just within the time limit of 59 minutes 42 seconds!”
“That was harder than I expected, navigating from the beach to the island was challenging.” Harry said as Fleur and Viktor sat on either side of the bench he was on.
“I will have a bad headache later… even now since I hit so many corals on the way to the mermaid colony.” Viktor said while he massaged his near bald head to ease some of the discomfort.
“I almost collapsed in exhaustion. And the water was very cold. I never want to do that again.” Fleur said as healers checked the various scrapes and bruises the champions had gotten from swimming near the sharp coral.
“Our scores are here” Harry said amid the cheers and applause of the crowd. Devereux approached the champions and held up his hands to silence the crowd.
“After deliberation from the judges, we agreed to give Monsieur Harry Wayne a score of 49 points of a possible 50 for accomplishing the second task quickest. Mademoiselle Fleur Delacour has a score of 48 points for arriving second, and Monsieur Viktor Krum a score of 47 for arriving third.” Devereux said as he read from the score sheet.
“Monsieur Neville Longbottom has a score of 46 points, for arriving fourth but he still arrived within the one hour time limit. Although…” Devereux narrowed his eyes as he read a comment from one of the judges. He continued reading with disbelief in his voice. “…one of the judges insisted that I announce his comment: that Monsieur Longbottom has shown Cultural Finesse for… being polite to the mermaids?”
“cultural Finesse my butt! He just fondled that mermaid’s tits! I would have done that too! You showed Balls there Longbottom!”
“Who said that? I demand to know who keeps on insisting on broadcasting his immature and childish opinions, thereby disrupting the tournament!” Devereux shouted as he looked at the crowd. No one seemed to have heard his outburst as the audience laughed and cheered their champions on.
“So that was why he was swimming back so fast! …he was running away from a mad colony of Mermaids!” Fleur exclaimed while Harry and Viktor exchanged amused looks. The mermaids were topless, but they had too much maturity and control to let it bother them. It seemed Neville lacked both as he faced a dozen half naked half fish woman.
“Well I hope he had a good grope… it would be the last time he will be swimming in these seas. Look at the shore.” Viktor said and Fleur and Harry followed his gaze.
“Wow they look mad.” Harry sniggered as he saw the heads of the mermaids poking out of the water. They were looking at Neville though said boy was unaware as he drank the water while being attended by the healers. The three champions even saw one of the mermaids made a slashing gesture to her neck to indicate Neville was dead, while the others slammed the water with their tales in displeasure.
After a few minutes of recuperating, the four champions were lead inside the tent, where the four judges awaited with them.
“Champions…” Monsieur Devereux approached, carrying the wands the four retrieved in the second task. “You will notice, that the wands you have received are different from one another. Each wand represents a direction from which you will start in a maze. Monsieur Longbottom, wave the wand you have picked please” Devereux said as he handed each wand back to the champions.
Neville did so and blue sparks came out his wand, and a large letter N. “You will start from the north.” Devereux said. Harry and Fleur had East and West respectively, while Viktor had south. Once the four champions had confirmed the directions, Devereux continued to brief them.
“Since Mademoiselle Fleur and Monsieur Harry are tied in first place with 84 points each, they will both start at the maze we will build at the same time on the thirtieth of March. Monsieur Viktor and Monsieur Neville will then head next after a minute since they are both tied in second place with 79 points. This is very exciting indeed!” Devereux exclaimed.
“Very exciting indeed, I would have never anticipate that it would be such a closely contested tournament!” Madame Olympe said. “The English Ministry wizards have kindly offered their help in building the maze, and so Champions, prepare for there are things inside the maze that will test you to you limits.”
“Indeed. You have two months to prepare, Champions. Use it well, as this will be the most difficult task of them all.” Dumbledore added as he gazed at Neville Longbottom, and only Harry noticed this.
************
January 12, East Garden, Beauxbatons
“There’s nothing I can see that would indicate foul play. I’ve checked the three aurors that accompanied Crouch Senior, and I know they were not supporters of pureblood supremacists.” Rita Skeeter made her report to the mysterious figure who still clad in the unrevealing black clothes.
“Good. What about Crouch Senior? Is he acting in a suspicious manner? He could have tampered with the Goblet.” Harry asked. He tossed a sack of Galleons towards Rita and the reporter eagerly caught it and stuffed it in her purse.
“No… you couldn’t find a more Light Wizard than Crouch himself…” Rita said as she smiled at her mysterious client. “He was a top candidate to become the Minister of Magic before the scandal… he was brutal, he sentenced hundreds of supporters of You know Who to Azkaban, and he even managed to convince the Wizengamot to authorize his Auror Forces to use the Unforgivables against the Death Eaters.”
“What scandal?” Harry asked, he never heard about this.
“Well shortly after the downfall of He Who must not be named by the boy who lived… may he rest in peace… his son was captured along with Bellatrix Lestrange, her husband Rodulphus and brother in law Rabastan as they tortured the Longbottoms to insanity with the Cruciatus Curse. Imagine the scandal!” Rita exclaimed as she remembered the rumors and speculations during the chaotic time. “And Crouch Senior sentenced his son… his son! To life imprisonment in Azkaban without so much as a blink. I think he wanted to protect his candidacy in the Ministry in the upcoming elections that time… but the damage was done.”
“And his son?” Harry asked. this was intriguing, he was glad he recruited Rita into his network.
“Well, the official records say he died in prison… but the Auror I knew who is posted in the Auror garrison in Azkaban said that someone escaped… someone who was supposed to be dead. Barty Crouch Junior was found dead in the living room of Alastor Moody’s house. He escaped Azkaban!” Rita whispered. “Of course you wouldn’t tell anyone would you? I got this information through questionable means, its suppose to be top secret.”
“Of course… here a bonus for this new bit of information.” Harry tossed another sack of gold to the reporter. “You will receive a message from me and we will meet again in a time and place I will indicate if I need your services. Good day Rita” Harry needed to report this to Sirius and his Dad.
“You certainly know how to keep this reporter Happy. I’ll be waiting.” Rita smirked and peered closer to get a better look at the mysterious person, she was curious about the identity of her mysterious client.
“Who are you honey? Tell me I won’t tell a soul.” Rita teased, she was quite sure this person was not out to harm her. “You’re rich… and by your voice you sound young… twenty’s perhaps? You know that’s legal for more intimate affairs.”
“I’m not your type Rita.” Harry said.
“But are you sure?” Rita asked. She looked at her newly done nails and continued. “I am very skilled, and having young lover will be very pleasurable for me… and I will teach you many… many things. How about it? one peek at that mask you’re wearing?” Rita looked up and found her client gone, she didn’t even hear him leave.
“Crap. Oh well, time for a vacation.” Rita muttered as she patted her purse, heavy with galleons. Her client’s word was good as his gold, and she was very, very happy. If she kept this up, with the bribes from politicians and her considerable salary at the daily prophet, she can retire soon in a private villa here in Marseille. She found the place relaxing, and it was full of young handsome and virile young men. Rita looked around to see if someone was observing her and disappeared into the shadows of the garden.
********
February 10, The Warrior, Marseille
The Hogwarts delegation was given a week to rest and relax, as well as enjoy the city of Marseille, provided that the student’s parents had given them permission. Of course Mrs. Granger and Mrs. Greengrass, eager to see their daughters immediately gave their permission and indicated in their letters that they would meet them on board The Warrior.
The massive Wayne yacht had docked two days ago in the port of Marseille as Bruce Wayne needed to finalize his business deals with Gerard Delacour, and also to spend some quality time with his son and family.
Gerard Delacour had heard from his daughter and from the muggle news about the new cooking sensation, and had requested a meal cooked by Chef Harry. Harry reluctantly agreed, though he still considered himself an amateur Chef that only liked to experiment and watch cooking shows like Jamie Oliver’s, Iron Chef America and his favorite chef, Giada de Laurentiis. He once had a crush on the beautiful Italian American when he was eight, to Kara’s amusement.
“Finally! Boy that was hard. I hope your father like this.” Harry said as he removed a large tray from the oven and placed it on the counter to cool.
“He will love this Harry, Lasagna is his favorite dish, and when you add the other plates you prepared, he will have a full stomach by the end of lunch. Oh that smells good!” Fleur said as she peered at the steaming hot Lasagna, its cheese slightly toasted. Harry had used many varieties of cheese in the dish and it filled the room making the three girls’ mouth water.
“I hope so. I better take a quick shower. Don’t touch this okay? It’s still hot.” Harry said as he wiped the sweat off his brow and disappeared from the kitchen.
“MMMm… Have you ever seen anything so delicious?” Hermione said as she inhaled the delectable dish.
“No… and I’m getting hungry from just smelling it. I want to taste the Lasagna…” Daphne said as she slowly moved her hand to get a sample.
“No it’s for Fleur’s dad!” Hermione slapped her friends hand away, though she herself wanted to take a good dip with her finger. “Harry said not to touch this!”
“But I’m hungry! And it’s sooo good!” Daphne pouted.
Fleur licked her lips and moved closer to the dish and smelled the cheese. “It is. Harry’s very talented.”
Daphne crossed her arms… and she looked for a way to sample the dish. “Hermione look, the cheese on the edge of the tray is allowed isn’t it?” She took a wooden spatula and scooped the excess cheese and tasted it. “Oh yeah that’s the stuff!”
“Let me taste!” Hermione said and tried some for herself. “Oh yeah! Yummy!”
Fleur did not want to be left behind and tried some too, and soon the edges of the tray was sparkling clean, though the stolen tastes only increased the three girls’ hunger. Fleur absently twirled the wooden spatula and smudged the side of the lasagna.
“Oh look, it got hit. That’s too bad.” Fleur said as she looked at the broken cheesy crust of the dish. She used the spatula and licked the cheesy goodness.
“Look at what you have done!” Hermione said. “The dish is ruined. And it’s not even, we should fix the other side to make it more even.” Hermione grabbed the spatula from Fleur and grazed the other side. She ate the cheese and some of the pasta and moaned. “Wow the pasta’s good and the flavors… Wow!”
“Hermione… it’s not symmetrical again! This side needs to be fixed!” Daphne said and snatched the spatula from her friend and shoved it deeper into the tray, scooping out a good amount of cheeses, pasta, vegetables and meat. She shoved the scoop into her mouth and declared. “I’m in Lasagna heaven!”
That was the signal and the three girls took out spoons from the counter and began feasting on the Lasagna, not caring as their faces were smudged with the cheese and sauce.
Kara found them as she carried Astraea on her arms, and she was shocked at the very unlady like behavior the usual prim and proper girls were acting.
“What are you doing?” Kara said while Astraea giggled and bounced in her arms at the amusing sight. Fleur, Hermione and Daphne immediately stopped the rape of the Lasagna and looked at her as they chewed, their mouths stuffed with food.
“Uhh… Quality control?” Hermione said as she swallowed what she was chewing. Fleur and Daphne looked at the tray and found it was almost empty.
“Oh no…” Fleur said. “What have we done?” She gazed at the remaining pasta and scooped out some more with her finger.
“We ruined Harry’s dish!” Daphne said as she copied her friends actions. “But… it's sooo good!”
Kara laughed in amusement, she understood her friends' actions, and she hoped Harry would not take this badly. “When Harry sees this… oh here he is.” She giggled softly as she struggled to breathe.
Harry entered the kitchen, his hair wet from the shower, and stopped, shocked at the sight. His previously pristine tray was now gone… and he looked at the culprits.
Fleur, Hermione, and Daphne immediately hid their spoons behind their backs, although the sides of their guilty mouths were still stained with the sauce and cheese. He even saw Hermione lick the side of her lips to get another taste.
“Sorry Harry…” Fleur said. “I will explain to my father what happened. It’s your fault actually, you made such an amazing dish! It is irresistible!”
Harry chuckled then it proved too much as he laughed along with Kara. “Your faces! You look like clowns!” Harry took out towel paper from the dispenser and handed them to the three marauding culprits. “It’s fine… I prepared another tray for you girls since I thought we would have our own dinner on the deck away from the adults. But since you ate the main course, you’ll have to do with the salad and appetizers I made.”
“YEY!” The three girls cheered. They got off the hook.
"But... Me, Kara and Astraea will have Lasagna while your girls don't." Harry smirked. this was the punishment.
"Awwww" Fleur, Hermione and Daphne said in unison.
**********
Cursing to the high heavens, Earth Orbit, Skull Squadron exercises.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP”
“God damnit!” Jack Baker said as his sensors indicated he was hit. “That guy’s ridiculous!” He looked at the dogfight as he saw his squadron get shut down one by one. Only Rick Hunter, the Sterling Siblings and Karen Penn were left from the original eight that was sent to engage in a mock fight with the white VF-3.
He joined his “dead” squadron into a higher orbit to observe the dogfight. Whoever the pilot of the white VF-3 was performing intense maneuvers that the skull squadron struggled to imitate.
The formation of the four VF-3 headed by their wing commander Maximillian Sterling immediately dispersed as the White VF-3 flew past their formation. The four gray VF-3 followed their target, but it was too quick and agile for them. Jack Baker pushed into a few buttons to listen to the intercom to get a better idea of how tough their opponent was.
“Bogey’s at my six! Where the hell did he come from! Mir get him out of my tail!” Karen Penn’s voice was heard and Rick looked at where his teammate was. Her gray VF-3 was pursued relentlessly by the White VF-3, trying to get a proper angle of attack for his virtual missiles to launch.
“I’m coming Karen!” Miriya Sterling said as she joined the Dogfight. The white Veritceh fighter increased its speed and engaged full reverse thrusters and without losing time it pulled up to avoid the pin down. It rolled and twisted to avoid a target lock by Rick Hunter’s VF-3 and pursued the Wing Commander’s Veritech fighter who was alone as its wingman left him.
“God damnit Rick! Get back here!” Max Sterling screamed out. “Bogey’s on my six… Urgghh.” Max said as he tried to perform a sharp turn as the intense G forces assaulted his body. His maneuver was good but the White VF-3 followed smoothly, and while he tried to recuperate and regain his bearings his sensors immediately indicated he was dead.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP”
“Shit I’m dead.” The Wing commander immediately joined the rest of the “dead squadron,” hovering at 12 to get a better view.
“He’s on my tail again!” Karen screamed as she tried erratic maneuvers. “he’s getting a lock!” Karen said as her voice cockpit warned of the locking sensors. She copied her opponents earlier move and slammed the brakes hoping the White VF-3 would overshoot past him, but no trail of thrusters appeared past her cockpit.
“Shit.” Karen breathed out and was rewarded with a loud beep. Her opponent must have sensed what she was about to do, and with great disappointment Karen joined her inactive squadron.
“Who the hell is that guy?” Karen asked. She was one of the newer members of Skull Squadron, having finished her tour of duty on the Carrier Battle Group USS Independence. “He’s not human I tell you, I was at my limit!”
“You’ll see Karen. Looks like Rick’s the only one left.” Max Sterling replied. The two Veritech Fighters were engaged in a furious chase, and the remaining member of Skull Squadron was the only one remaining as it pursued the bogey. Suddenly the White VF-3’s legs engaged and it dropped under the chassis as its thruster legs engaged and it rotated in space. It caught the pursuing VF-3 of Rick Hunter by surprise, as one second he was chasing the bogey and a split second later it was facing him with virtual guns blazing.
“BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!”
“Damn, I almost got the kid.” Rick said as he pulled up and joined his squadron in formation. The White VF-3 joined them, and flew behind the formation..
“Exercise is over. Let’s head back to Watchtower 2.” Max Sterling said and one by one the Veritechs disengaged, following their Wing Commander to base.
As the Veritech fighters landed on their respective hangars, Karen jumped from her cockpit and approached Rick Hunter.
“You said Kid right? Who is the pilot of that white VF-3?” Karen asked as she removed the instruments attached to her flight suit.
“We just called him white leader, but I heard his name’s Harry. Here he comes, c’mon I’ll introduce you.” Rick said as he spotted the White VF-3 land down on its own hangar, with a stunning blonde woman waiting for the pilot to climb down.
Karen’s eyes widened as she spotted the pilot remove his helmet. “He’s so young! What 15? 16?”
“Fourteen actually… you signed the non disclosure agreement right? That’s Bruce Wayne’s son, Harry Wayne. He developed the Veritech Fighter since VF 1. It’s all thanks to him that we developed the Veritech so fast, his inputs were valuable.” Rick Hunter said. “You should have seen him during the shakedowns of the VF 1 , VF 2 and the VF 3, he pushed the fighter to their limits and then some.”
“The Wayne Heir? Chef Harry?!... but… but… how did he become so good?” Karen asked as he observed the Wayne heir talking to what Karen thought was his girlfriend.
“That’s the big secret. Kid’s a natural pilot, and his tolerance to G-forces is unbelievable.” Rick said as he took off the own instruments attached to his suit and stored the electronic equipment in his helmet.. “I remembered when we first watched his performance on the VF-2, we all thought that has got to be a UAV program flying the thing. But then we saw the video of the inside of the cockpit and saw this kid flying it! Shocked the hell out of the squadron, I gotta tell you that.”
“No wonder we couldn’t catch him! He’s the test pilot! He knew the capabilities of the fighter inside out.” Karen said. “Hey you said you’ll introduce me right?”
“Oh Yeah” Rick said and turned to Harry. “Hey! Harry!” The Wayne heir looked at their direction and waved and headed towards them with his girlfriend walking beside him.
“Hello Lieutenant Rick, C’mon stop saluting me, I told you that for the hundredth time.” Harry said.
“It’s a habit Harry, and it’s a sign of respect for your phenomenal skills. You might have noticed, but the whole squadron salutes you. Anyway, meet the newest member to the Skull Squadron, Lieutenant Karen Penn, U.S. Air Force.” Rick said as the female pilot saluted the Wayne heir.
Harry saluted back, and held a hand to shake. “Good to have you with us Lieutenant Penn. That was some good flying.” Harry said as the Karen shook his hand. “I’ve got to go back, nice meeting you!”
Karen watched as Harry Wayne and his girlfriend disappear to the private lockers. “Maybe I should learn how to cook to, that might help me improve my piloting skills.”
*********
March 29, Third Task Maze, Beauxbatons
“We have to hurry, the creatures will be placed later.” Barty Crouch senior said to the French and British Aurors as he carried the TriWizard cup from the grand hall to the maze. “I’ll take carry this directly towards the center, while you assist the keepers, we don’t want any accidents do we?”
“Yes Monsieur Crouch.” The French Female Auror replied. “How long before the first creatures will be placed inside?”
“In Ten minutes… that… is why we must hurry. Go, I can handle carrying this simple thing.” Barty Crouch Senior gave a tight smile to his two escorts.
“If you’re sure, Mister Crouch. I’ll wait for you at the north entrance.” The British Auror replied.
Crouch Senior nodded and carried the Cup deeper into the 20 foot high hedge maze. His will was commanded by the Dark Lord, keeping a tight leash to ensure his obedience. But his thoughts were free.
The Dark Lord said that Dumbledore was playing into his trap, the determination of the Headmaster of Hogwarts to see through with his weapon’s survival will ultimately lead to the rebirth of Lord Voldemort, terrible and more powerful than ever before. He must find a way to warn the Dumbledore, but the Dark Lord’s will was stronger than his own.
The snake had mutated as it absorbed the energies the Black Heart Jewel emitted, and it grew into a grotesque snakelike humanoid form. He feared for the worse, he hoped someone would be able to stop this. By his master’s command, he cast several subtle charms and wards to ensure that whatever creature that will be placed on the northern path would not bother Longbottom later on. As he reached the central stone podium, he placed the TriWizard cup into its stand, and whispered.
“Portus”
The TriWizard cup glowed an ominous blue light, before it faded, and it silver trims shined under the moonlight. It stood there, a seemingly innocent cup, perfect for a trap.
**********
March 30, Hedge Maze, Beauxbatons
“Welcome to the Third and Final Task of the Triwizard Tournament! I would like to acknowledge and welcome the presence of our esteemed guests, Minister Cornelius Fudge of Britain, Minister Allen Brown of United States of Americ, Minister Grishoff Knott of Bulgaria and our very own Minister Jaques Villard of France!” Monsieur Devereux said as the Ministers stood up as their names were called and waved at the crowd.
“Now give a hand for our Champions!” Monsieur Devereux waved his hand theatrically at the tent housing the Champions
The crowds were cheered and roared as the Champions walked out of the tent and headed to their sides of the maze, waving at their friends and families. Thousands came, from the Ministers of the various magical governments, to the wizarding press and other Witches and Wizards, eager to see the historic and prestigious climax of the Tournament.
Twenty minutes later, the champions were in position Monsieur Devereux began his speech. “As Monsieur Wayne, and Mademoiselle Delacour, are tied for first place…” He paused as the crowd cheered wildly.
“They will have a minute head start, while Monsieur Krum and Monsieur Longbottom…” Devereux paused again as their supporters cheered wildly.
Devereux continued. “… will start a minute later as they are both tied in second place! A very exciting task, as anyone can win! Champions! At the sound of my wand, the two champions tied for first place must immediately enter the maze! After the second sound, Krum and Longbottom will follow…”
“The Triwizard cup is placed in the middle of the maze by Bartemius Crouch Senior, head of the International Magical Cooperation Department of the ministry of Magic of Britain. The maze itself is filled with creatures and obstacles designed to challenge our champions’ skill in wizarding prowess and knowledge!”
Devereux glanced at the crowd and waved his wand.
“BOOOOM”
“Begin!” Devereux shouted and Harry and Fleur rushed into the maze from the east and west. The crowd went wild as they shouted their cheers to support their favorites. A minute later another sound was heard.
“BOOOOM!”
Viktor Krum and Neville Longbottom rushed to the maze, eager to catch up on the minute head start of the other two champions. The crowd went wild again, screaming their voices hoarse, as the third task began, and the game was on.
**********
Harry dodged the large pincer of the Acromantula blocking his path and sent a stunning curse towards the creature. The giant spider’s tough hide dispersed the curse though it slightly staggered as it shook off the curse’s effects. Harry used the moment and slid underneath the creature and punched its soft underbelly hard with his left fist.
The giant spider instantly collapsed as its insides were rattled with the shock of the strong punch. Harry spared a second to look at the spider to make sure it would not attack him when his back was turned and continued towards the center of the maze. He had already dispatched the various magical creatures in his path, from boggarts, Wild gnomes and even a low land troll, and by far the most challenging for him was the Acromantula. But that was just the magical creatures.
The tall twenty foot hedges that comprised as walls of the Maze were confusing to navigate, but the organizers decided that this wasn’t hard enough and added devils snare traps along the random sections. Harry had to transfigure a stick into a long knife so that he would be able to move quickly through the deadly plants, but it was still a time consuming and arduous task.
Instead of moving at a reasonable pace, he had take to a fast walk so that he can spot the deadly vines of the devils snare littering the sides and walls of the maze, eager to catch his foot or hand. Harry heard a high pitch shriek, and he smiled, fleur must have encountered her greatest fear in the boggart, though he was confident she could handle it. He wondered how the other Champions were doing and continued on.
*********
“Not again…” Neville muttered as he encountered a dead end. The third task was surprisingly easy, though he did a girly scream when he spotted a frozen sphinx, but he was glad that no one heard him. He was about to double back when the wall of plants in front of him suddenly wilted away revealing a new path.
Neville grinned and rushed forward not noticing the frozen trolls and Acromantulas in the dark corners. This was easy! Neville used the point me spell Dumbledore taught him and hurried towards the center, he could fell the cup was nearer.
*********
Harry ran past another tangle of Devil’s snare and rolled to the ground as other vines attempted to coil around his neck. He immediately got back up and stopped for a moment to regain his bearings. A glint caught his eye and he turned his head and smiled.
The Trwizard cup stood on its stone podium, waiting for its champion. He moved past and stopped when he heard another footstep on his right.
“Fleur” Harry smiled. “I was wondering when you will get here.”
“Harry.” Fleur stopped for a moment to regain her breathing. “Good to see you. Have you seen a large hairy spider?”
“Yeah. I punched it in the gut. So, foot race then?” Harry asked as he gazed at the Triwizard cup, 100 feet away from them.
“If you’re sure. On three?” Fleur replied.
“Alright… Three!” Harry sprinted forward and Fleur ran beside him, matching his long strides. Suddenly they both slowed down and gradually to a halt.
“Just my luck.” Harry breathed out.
“Mine too… how did he get here?” Fleur said, disappointment in her voice. “I mean, I was ally hyped up, ready for a sprint to the cup but this is a very big let down.”
“I know.” Harry replied as they both sat on the ground as Neville Longbottom grabbed the cup to claim the title of Triwizard Champion.
“Look at me! Look at me! I’m the champion EEEEEEeeee!” Neville screamed as he felt the tug on his navel as the portkey activated.
“Was that supposed to happen?” Fleur asked.
“No… Devereux said the first to get the cup would activate the fireworks and that we would announce the TriWizard Champion. I don’t hear any cheers or see any fireworks.” Harry replied as he began to imagine possible scenarios in his mind.
“I’ll call for help then” Fleur said as she sent two red sparks in the air, and within a minute two wizards in large brooms hovered above them.
“Monsieur Wayne? Mademoiselle Delacour? You need assistance?” A female French auror asked.
“We need a ride. Take me to Bartemius Crouch Senior.” Harry replied as his face lost all the fun he was having in the last twenty minutes.
**********
Little Hagedon Cemetery, Britain
“Where am I” Neville asked as he looked around the cemetery. He fearfully dropped the Triwizard cup and gasped when a figure emerged from the shadows of one of the large tombstones.
“Neville Longbottom… we meet again.” Lord Voldemort smiled at his nemesis. “Congratulations on winning the TriWizard tournament, but I fear we will need to talk later… once the ritual will be complete and I have regained my body.”
Neville froze in fear as he looked at the reptilian face of Lord Voldemort. The Dark Lord was hideous, as he stood six feet tall with a thin human like body and curved scaly arms, while a long tail trailed along the end of his spine.
Finally Neville snapped from his fear and ran for his life. He was able to dodge the spells as he ran past the tombstones but one pinned him right on the back and he fell down on the ground, out cold.
Voldemort dragged him back by his leg, and after a few meters the most feared Dark Lord in the universe stopped as he looked at his unconscious prey. “You’re too heavy, Longbottom.” He waved his hand and floated the boy towards the tombstone of his father.
***********
Harry jumped before the broom landed and glanced at his father in stands. He nodded his head and Bruce understood and whispered to Diana and Kara that Harry expected trouble. Diana immediately clutched her baby daughter tightly into her arms and stood up and headed towards the grounds, followed by Kara and Bruce and Zatanna.
Harry pushed past the press and used his superior strength to move them out of the way as the reporters rushed to him and Fleur to ask questions.
“Mr. Wayne!”
Harry turned around and spotted Dumbledore and McGonagall running towards him.
“What happened? Why did you give up?” McGonagall asked as she inspected her student for injuries.
“Neville got the cup first…” Harry said and frowned as Dumbledore beamed in happiness.
“But as soon as he touched the cup, he disappeared, the Triwizard cup is a portkey?” Harry continued.
“Are you sure?” Dumbledore asked, his eyes instantly changing from the kind old man to the powerful wizard that Lord Voldemort even avoided a fight with.
“Yes, I saw the telltale signs of displaced wind and air… now I must go to my family. Headmaster, Professor.” Harry nodded to the two Hogwarts staff and disappeared among the crowds.
Dumbledore hurried past the crowd and reached Madame Maxime as her champion was reporting what she saw.
The headmistress of Beauxbatons noticed Dumbledore approaching and asked. “Your champion told you then? One of the champions has been kidnapped, Neville Longbottom through the use of a portkey.”
“Yes, young Harry Wayne told me. I fear I played into his trap. We must find him, please ask the minister of France and Cornelius to come here too. We must rescue Neville.” Dumbledore replied as he wondered where Longbottom might have been taken… and how?
********
“When you first see him, you would not think he is under the spell but look closely at his eyes… they’re slightly dilated… unnoticeable when he wears those glasses of his. I need to bring him out of the spell… Zatanna?” Harry asked.
“I’m on it.” Zatanna said as she waved her hands as she gathered the mystic energies. She used them and severed the psychic tether controlling Crouch’s mind and the man immediately babbled what was on his mind as the leash was released.
“Lord Voldemort!... a plot… the black heart jewel…. Little Hagedon!” Crouch gasped out and he looked around and spotted the figure nearest to him and grabbed the person’s shirt. “He must not be allowed to continue the ritual! He must be stopped at all costs!” Crouch gasped out loud.
“Show me.” Harry said and he used his legillimency skills as he sifted through the man’s mind. After a moment he finally learned the whole plan of the Dark Lord and he stood up. The mind probe prove too much for Crouch and hes passed out in exhaustion.
“Voldemort’s on the move. He plans to use the Neville’s blood on a ritual to bring his body back and stole the Black Heart Jewel to boost his powers. The place is in Little Hagedon Cemetery in Britain. I’m going to rescue Neville and stop the ritual.” Harry said as his body glowed a familiar green and his clothes changed to the garb of Apollo.
“Agreed. But if it gets tough, get out of there and call for backup. Take care, I’ll wait aboard the Warrior and set up a Command and Control center for this crisis.” Bruce said and looked at the other Justice League member. “Zatanna, have Sirius Black and Nymphadora Tonks here with some of Harry’s clothes, we need a double for him. Also call Dr. Fate, I might need his help, ETA, five minutes. Go.”
Apollo nodded and he disappeared in a familiar pop while Zatanna immediately contacted the members Batman required. The Justice League was on the move.
***********
“Bone of My father…” Voldemort said aloud in fulfillment of the ritual and levitated his filthy muggle father’s bone and dropped it into a steaming large cauldron.
“Blood of the enemy… forcibly taken…” The Dark Lord sliced a cut with a ritual knife on Neville’s arms and flicked the blood on the cauldron. The boy moved slightly but he was still unconscious from the stunning spell and Voldemort grinned in anticipation. He wanted Longbottom to wake up and see the new form of the Dark Lord.
“Heart of evil, give me your power” Voldemort leaned over the Cauldron and regurgitated the Black Heart jewel in his gut, and it splashed at it joined the other ingredients in the mixture…
“My flesh willingly offered… I will be reborn!” Voldemort exclaimed and he dived head first into the cauldron.
The dark ritual was complete as dark energies gathered across the skies and a chilling wind blew across the graveyard. A thousand souls screamed in despair and terror as the Black Heart Jewel’s essence escaped through the Crystal casing and joined Voldemort’s resurrection. The cauldron bubbled and shook until black light erupted from it and bathed the graveyard in darkness.
Neville finally woke up and he immediately felt fear as he watched the terrifying sight. His arm hurt and he felt weak and cold and his eyes grew wide as he finally remembered what happened. Lord Voldemort was here! He struggled to stand and run but he felt something… an oppressive force was pushing him to the ground… pinning him with fear and terror. Neville just lied on the ground as he watched the rebirth of the Dark Lord.
The cascade of dark energies stopped flowing and where the Cauldron once stood was a shadow… a Dementor… six feet tall and emitting a strong frost aura felt around in the small graveyard. Light seemed to dim around the strange being and Neville pushed with his legs to get away from the creature. He could see his breathe in the sudden cold and his body shivered though he was not sure if it was from the cold or the fear paralyzing his body.
The Dementor took of his hood and Neville gasped as Lord Voldemort’s face looked down on him.
“How polite of you to stay and be the first to welcome me back… for this I will ensure that your death will be quick, though… it will not be painless a I fear.” Lord Voldemort said as his eyes burned with dark energies.
“By all means… run… shout... AMUSE ME!” Lord Voldemort said and Neville shivered when he heard the dark lord’s voice. It was deep, like the abyss itself was swallowing him whole.
“No? how sad… I expected even a meager bit of resistance from you.” Lord Voldemort said as he flexed and tested his new body. “Despair now… for no one even Dumbledore will be able to save you.”
Neville whimpered as he looked at the dark skies saturated with the evil energies, he would bear to look at the sky than look upon Lord Voldemort… it was hopeless… he was going to die.
A glint caught his eye and he thought that he would never be able to see light again… not this hideous terrifying undead glow that permeated everywhere. The light… Neville squinted as he focused on it and saw that it was green… bright green.
“What are you looking at Longbottom? Praying for help? How pathetic….” Lord Voldemort stopped his tirade as he too noticed the light.
A beam of light pierced through the dark and heavy clouds, piercing them like a lance. It streaked across the sky dispersing the darkness around it and it seemed to be heading towards Lord Voldemort.
“What manner of magic is this?” Lord Voldemort asked out loud and he leaped back as the beam of green light slammed between Neville Longbottom and the Dark Lord.
Neville felt the darkness recede as a strange being appeared before him, whoever he was, he was bathed in bright green light, pulsing ever so often, pushing back the fear and the cold. The figure was facing Lord Voldemort, and Neville could see from between the Green being’s feet the stunned face of Lord Voldemort.
“It seemed I arrived too late to stop you, Lord Voldemort.” The green being said as he stood protectively over Neville Longbottom.
“You… Hogwarts’ protector… yes I remember you! You stopped my servant from acquiring the stone! No matter… I will destroy you now… you have saved me from hunting you… and when I’m done… Hogwarts will be defenseless!” Voldemort said.
“Don’t be so sure.” Apollo said and he let out his power and sent a beam towards the Dark Lord. He was too late to stop the ritual, but he still needed to rescue Longbottom. He did not want not face something unknown as it appeared the dark lord had acquired a new body and strange powers of his own… like a Dementor’s.
Voldemort dodged the blast and gathered his dark energies in his arm and sent a beam towards the stranger. Harry dodged this and it hit a tombstone and shattered it, sending rubble flying round. Apollo wanted to take on the dark lord, but Neville still needed to be rescued. He needed a way to get Neville out, but the portal would take too much time and Voldemort could follow them.
He spotted the Portkey still glowing faintly and a plan immediately formed in his mind. He sent a few more beams to keep the Dark Lord distracted and dragged Longbottom towards the cup by his collar. He was about to push Neville to the portkey to activate it when the Dark Lord came out of nowhere and tackled him, intent on sucking out his soul when they both fell on Neville who in turn was pushed into the cup.
All three vanished amidst a class of energies from the graveyard and appeared in front of the stands to the shock and fear of the crowd watching the sudden appearance.
Albus Dumbledore’s eyes widened in shock as well as the Ministers of Magic as they saw the Dark Lord… thought long gone appear before their very eyes. Albus noticed Longbottom was there and… a strange being, burning with green aura fighting the Dark Lord.
Apollo gritted his teeth and summoned his power and kicked Voldemort from him, sending the Dark Lord though the hedges of the maze. Apollo immediately followed through and pursued Voldemort, intent on drawing his opponent away from the crowd to avoid casualties and collateral damage.
Albus immediately hurried to Neville to check on his condition and he breathed a sigh of relief when the boy seemed conscious.
“What happened Neville?” Albus asked as the Ministers of Magic stood by his side while the aurors tried to contain the panic that flowed through the crowd when the supposed to be dead Dark Lord suddenly appear before them.
“Lord… Voldeehmort… he’s back… he used my blood on a ritual… and he was suppose to kill me.” Neville shivered in fear. “But then he came… and stopped Lord… Voldeehmort. He called him Hogwart’s guardian.”
Albus’ eyes widened in surprise… so that was the guardian! He saved Longbottom! His word was true… when Hogwarts needed him the most he would appear… and his timing could not be more perfect!
“Albus! Is… that… He who must not be named?” Cornelius asked fearfully.
“Yes… and he used Longbottom’s blood in a ritual to bring him back. The Dark Lord appears to have acquired new powers … fortunately for us we have an ally.” Albus said. “But we must help this being...” He was interrupted as a powerful gust of wind blew his hat off, and it appears he was not the only one.
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!
An explosion was seen from the middle of the maze and it was so powerful that the hedges were blown off revealing a shocking sight. The green being was facing off against the Dark Lord in a display of power as they traded raw energies. The green being suddenly dived straight to Lord Voldemort, dispersing the dark lord’s attack with a hand and sent a fantastic punch to the Dark Lord’s face, sending him tumbling through the ground.
The punch was so strong that Albus could actually feel the blow and the impact, and he wished the punch would have knocked Voldemort’s head off clean from his body.
Voldemort was enraged… he was never beaten to the ground… it was humiliating… The guardian appeared to be more powerful than him… impossible! He needed to regroup… to study his power and gain new allies… as Dumbledore obviously found a strong one with this Hogwarts guardian. As the green being sent a surge of energy towards his position, Voldemort disappeared to the crowd’s applause and jubilation. It was the first time Lord Voldemort was pushed to retreat.
Apollo looked at the crowd… and it appeared that Albus and several officials were running towards him. He let his aura pulse to slow them down and disappeared in a flash of green light.
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A/N: Comments?/Suggestions?
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