Justin and Cedric were walking back to the Hufflepuff common room after a tiresome day of arduous, yet gratifying practice. The boys were thankful towards the castle because they only ascended one set of stairs and, somehow, arrived in the hallway of their house. Cedric tapped one of the barrels in the painting, trying to be precise with the rhythm because he did not fancy the idea of being drenched in vinegar. The door opened and both boys entered. The sight that greeted them was not something they were expecting.

There were a few tearful students looking at the ground. Others were red in shame, and a few were glaring at nothing in particular. In front of them was a stern Professor Sprout, thing that unnerved both boys. When she saw them, her face softened and she signalled for them to join her.

"These students are examples of what a true Hufflepuff is. They don't exclude others. They are improving this house's good name by befriending other students. As I said, I'm ashamed of your immature behaviour. Cedric, I'm proud of you for joining a Hogwarts team. That way, our house will be represented in the tournament. Justin, I'm glad that you have expanded your circle of friends," Sprout congratulated them. "You are all dismissed, but if I ever have to give this talk again, it will no longer be in the safety of the common room, but in front of the whole school," she threatened and left. Most of the students fled to their rooms and both boys remained in place, confused at what had happened.

"She was angry and gave the house a scolding they won't forget," Susan told them, a wide smirk stretching her lips. "You look like shit," she said after examining them.

"Thank you for your kind words, Miss Bones," Cedric said, giving the girl a mock bow.

"I aim to please," she shrugged. "Anyways, I doubt they'll keep giving you trouble. Sprout chewed them out for a while."

"We didn't mind, anyway," Justin shrugged.

"Considering that both of you are always with Potter, I believe you."

"Do you have anything against him?" Justin asked when the girl scowled at the boy's surname.

"His idiotic godfather! That's what I have against him," the girl sighed, "The man is dating my aunt and it's disgusting to see them together. I spent most of my summer with Andrea to avoid the lovebirds."

"Well, this is a small world indeed. Be happy, Susan. You may have little cousins soon," Cedric teased the pouting girl, already running away before she could hex him.

One more week went by and the students were forced to wait for the Beauxbatons and Durmstrang students to arrive. The Sunday autumn evening was particularly gelid and the dying sun did nothing to keep the students warm. The members of the Guild cast heating charms on themselves, then they began doing the same for the first years. Many professors noticed this and followed their example with other students.

"Five points, to all of you for your initiative and thoughtfulness," McGonagall announced, smiling at the Guild.

Harry nodded at the woman and kept doing his job. When there was no one else to help, the group of friends walked to an empty corner and proceeded to ignore the boisterous students that seemed to be only able to concentrate on the newcomers. They heard their amazed gasps at what they supposed was the arrival of the other schools. At last, the professors signalled for them to go inside. They were the last ones to follow the group of desperate students, who were almost pushing each other to get into the great hall as quickly as possible.

"Don't forget to come to our common room after the feast," Flora reminded the members who were not in Slytherin.

"We won't," Cedric promised the slight girl, a warm smile spreading on his face.

They walked to their respective tables and waited for the foreigners to arrive. Suddenly, the doors were brusquely opened and the Durmstrang students marched in, the ones at the front doing some acrobatics while a dour man strode after them. One particular student caught Harry's attention. The boy looked older than seventeen and was controlling fire as if it was a simple levitation charm. He did not possess a traditional beauty but was handsome in his own right.

The Beauxbatons girls came after, showing a grace he had never seen beyond professional dancers. They were followed by a tall woman. An extremely tall one at that. Harry suspected that one of her ancestors was a giant for her to have such an impressive height. However, she was no less graceful than her students were. The girls' uniforms were made of delicate silk, a fact that worried him a little. It was designed to be aesthetically pleasing instead of functional and it offered no protection against the bitter, Scottish weather. The French students produced a simple illusion of butterflies leaving their hands, though one caught his attention. The blonde girl possessed an enviable beauty, but he did not care about that. What interested him was that her illusion was powerful enough to almost fool him, unlike the amateur ones from her peers.

Dumbledore was exchanging pleasantries with both headmasters and the foreign students remained standing at the front until they were shown the tables they would be sitting at. The Beauxbatons girls walked towards the Ravenclaw table, where the morons were falling over to make space for them. Harry noticed as the beautiful girl sat further away from the other students, disdain colouring her features, but there was also the hidden wariness in her eyes. When he looked at the front, he noticed that the red-clad headmaster was observing him with intensity, but lifted his gaze when it met his own. His observations were cut short when the Durmstrang students approached and looked unsure of where to sit.

"Sixth years over there!" one of the prefects announced and signalled the empty space. "Seventh years, over here! Welcome to the Noble house of Slytherin," greeted the seventh year prefect.

"Welcome to Hogwarts!" exclaimed the headmaster, wearing a cordial smile. "Let me introduce you to Madame Maxime, the headmistress of Beauxbatons, and Mister Bjelac, headmaster of Durmstrang. There have been a few changes to what was planned. First, our visitors will be staying in the houses that they are sitting with throughout the year and I hope you treat them with the respect and kindness they deserve. During this year, you will share classes, meals and facilities, so I hope many long friendships are formed. You will all have a month and a half to decide whether or not the eligible students will be putting their names in the Goblet of Fire, which will be available from October 30th to the 31st. The night of Halloween will be the night where our three champions are chosen. I am sure that you have not forgotten the prizes, but I will remind you: a thousand Galleons of personal money, the honour of being crowned as the Champion, and eternal glory!" the man announced, and it seemed that the information about the perils of the competition had been erased from the memory of more than a few, if the excited murmurs were anything to go by.

"I will also remind you of a few details," Professor McGonagall announced, much to the chagrin of the headmaster. "Seventh year is important for you, not only because of the NEWTs but also because it will be your last year as students. You have to organize your time wisely if you want to enjoy it before heading for the adult world, where you will be considered one. I hope you make wise decisions because I know that it will not be an easy term. Take advantage of all the opportunities that are being offered this year but, overall, enjoy your last year as children before you leave and become the marvellous adults that I know you will be," the woman said, sitting down.

Her speech was followed by thunderous applause, but sobriety returned to the room after her words sank in, and it seemed that the visitors had also taken note of her heartfelt speech. The headmaster looked pained and on the verge of arguing, but unwilling to either make a scene or confront the fearsome woman. The old man settled for looking at the professor with disappointment, something she ignored.

"Yes, anyway, I'm sure that you are all hungry. Enjoy the feast!" Dumbledore announced, and food appeared at the tables.

Harry eyed the food that surrounded their area with distaste. He had never been able to enjoy red meats, something common this evening. It was good he had requested the elves to make him a light dinner because he was sure he would not be able to stomach the kind of food that was offered on the table. Living on light meals for more than ten years ensured that. At the end of the feast, the headmaster gave another meaningless speech to encourage the students to submit their names for the competition. A speech that the boy ignored with all his might until they were allowed to leave but, before walking out of the hall, he signalled the prefects to guide their guests through the dungeons and inform them about their rules in the process.

The Guild walked out of the great hall, followed by the Slytherins. When they arrived at their entrance, Harry could not contain the grin that escaped at the sight of it. This morning, the blank wall had been changed by his hard-working elves, replaced with an exquisite embossing of a basilisk with chrysoberyl stones as eyes. Its head was in the entrance and its tail reached the end of the long corridor, adorning one wall. The elaborate craftsmanship, along with the meticulous details and encrusted peridot stones, made the snake seem real, which was only enhanced by the fact it was enchanted to move to protect the entrance.

The boy remembered with satisfaction the awed expressions of the Slytherin students, who kept admiring the snake. Daphne's face was adorned with a light smile when the basilisk moved, its head left the door and approached them. The basilisk's head re-entered the wall and their entrance was opened. They walked to their usual place but did not sit.

"Good evening. Before our guests arrive, we have a few announcements to make," Daphne greeted, an alluring smile adorning her expression. "We have decided that Slytherin has changed so much and is held in such a high regard that it's time to teach the others. Few people in the school follow our ideals and they drag many promising students with them. We are better, so we can teach them how to behave and show them where the truth lies. I know this house is full of capable members who will guide this country to a new era where we will lead. I'm proud of all of you," she said. Her words stroked their egos and established expectations they would do their best to fulfil.

The room waited until the Durmstrang students arrived and, after a while, the door was opened. The six prefects walked in the room, followed by the twelve students who were looking around, admiring the room. Terrence walked towards them and nodded, signalling Theo to start talking. Harry thanked the fact that they all had hit a growth spurt and no longer looked like prepubescent, lanky students. Now their features looked more defined and it made them look a few years older, which was good because looking young did nothing for the intimidation factor.

"Thank you for escorting our guests," Theo began saying and signalled for them to stay close. "Welcome to our Noble House. For years, we have worked hard to gain the respect and admiration of the inhabitants of this castle. It has been an arduous job, but we've managed to accomplish our objective. In order to safeguard our efforts, we have created a few rules that we expect everyone to follow, including you. From the moment you sat at our table, you were considered Slytherins and your actions will bring repercussions to our house. Follow our rules and act in an honourable way - this is how you will avoid punishment."

"As I explained to you, we hold ourselves in higher regard than other houses do, so you are expected to do the same," Terrence added.

"Indeed. Now, I will begin explaining the rules. First, blood purity has no place in this house; any use of terms related to that idiotic ideology will be punished," Theo warned, eyeing a student that seemed to want to object but was too cowardly to do so. "Second, no bullying is allowed under any circumstance. If you dare to try to harm any inhabitant of this castle because of your inferiority complexes, you will be punished. Third, always be polite. I don't care if it's a house-elf, a ghost, or an annoying first-generation magical, if we hear any rumours of low behaviour, you will be punished. Fourth, the Dark Mark is not allowed. If you believe in the idiocy that Voldemort preaches, that's your problem, but you'd better keep it so hidden that no one in this castle notices," he said, looking at two students who looked enraged by his words.

"We have no idea how your school works but here you will be nothing but respectful to every student in this castle, which includes the Beauxbatons students. We will not be disgraced by your disgusting actions and we will punish anyone who dares to even try," Blaise threatened. It seemed that was the final push a few students needed to react.

"Why should we obey these stupid rules?!" one sneered.

"You are nothing but brats and we are international guests. There is nothing you can do to us!" another gloated and Harry took a deep sigh, pondering on the existence of useless individuals.

"You are nothing more than vermin at our feet. I was hoping to avoid this, but don't forget that you forced my hand," Harry said.

He approached them and before either Durmstrang student could say something in retaliation, both fell to the floor, their screams breaking what had been a tranquil night. After a moment, they stopped trashing and lay panting on the floor. The boy observed the reactions of their two new members carefully, in case they did not agree and needed to be taken care of. It was fortunate that neither seemed inclined to object any time soon. The boy that had caught his attention earlier seemed to be pleased by the punishment his peers had received and that fact only served to increase Harry's curiosity.

"We don't care who you are in your country, you will never win against us. I hope you don't force me to punish you again," Harry said in an even tone and went back to his place.

"We will tell the headmaster! You have no right to do this!" the one that had remained silent exploded at last.

"By all means, do tell him. We have nothing to hide. Slytherin has rules and either you follow them or leave. However, for your lack of respect, you will be punished," little Luna told the boy and cast a curse.

The boy's eyes widened and he fell to his knees, horror painted on his visage. After a while, she lifted the curse and he fell to the floor; his limbs were trembling and he seemed unable to breathe properly. The other Durmstrang students seemed to understand that the Guild did not joke around and no one else dared to object.

"You can tell your headmaster tomorrow at breakfast but, the moment he decided to send you here, your fate was decided. I'm sure none of you is as rash or stupid as these three," Theo announced, sneering at the boys in the floor.

"I'm sure that none of them represents your intelligence, so we will ignore their outburst," Daphne said with a gentle smile. "As members of this house, you will enjoy privileges that no one else in the school has. An excellent example is our common room, one of the best rooms in the castle. Your rooms will be spacious and you are allowed to have your own if you wish. There are bathrooms designated for your use, which have different amenities that I am sure you will all enjoy. If you need anything, don't be afraid to speak with us, but please, do assign one person as a representative. We'll do our best to offer our assistance and we promise to take care of you because now, you are under our protection as the Slytherins you have become," Daphne finished her speech with grace.

"Your three peers, however, will not enjoy the same benefits that you do. They are assigned to a simple room that Prefect Yaxley will show them. If they wish to enjoy all the luxuries that are granted to you, they will have to show they have changed their ways and deserve them," Blaise told them, looking with contempt at the boys who were beginning to compose themselves.

"The ones who want individual rooms raise your left hands, and the ones who want to share, raise your right hands," Theo ordered, and the nine students raised their left hands.

"Excellent, you'll share a floor with the sixth and seventh years depending on what year you're in. Please, guide them," Daphne told them and the students in those years stepped forwards. "Show them the way and teach them how to use the different features in the bathrooms and bedrooms. Prefects, please lead these three students to a plain door that will appear on the seventh year floor. They have their own bathroom and under no circumstances are you to offer them any kind of help until they apologize properly," she ordered and the prefects nodded, pulling them up with more brusqueness than necessary and pushing them to walk.

"I regret the fact that punishments had to be imparted so soon," Harry said. "However, I know that Slytherins are intelligent and cunning, so I trust you to talk with the other students and teach them what you have learnt. Those who were punished will not enjoy a single benefit this house has to offer, which is a shame, but I know you understand."

All the students seemed to agree with the boy, devotion illuminating their visages. With a gentle smile, they were dismissed and the Guild was left alone in the common room. Cedric would have felt conflicted a few weeks ago but, after being part of this group, he understood why idiotic ideals were not allowed. He understood why people had to be punished and how hard his friends worked to keep the balance in the school. Cedric knew he had fallen under the enchantment of a charismatic boy with vivid green eyes, but he did not mind in the least.

"We'll need to be in the room to ensure order for a few days," Luna commented.

"Will they cause problems?" Fred asked her.

"They will try. Tomorrow they'll attempt to complain, but their own peers won't allow them. I know they're impressed with their rooms and are eager to learn what this castle has to offer... One of ours is among them," she announced, her soft voice contrasting with her intense words.

"So, we'll be complete," Neville nodded.

"Not yet, but soon," the girl declared.

The next morning, they were resting in the common room after working out in their headquarters earlier that day. They were enjoying a quiet moment, or at least it would have been quiet if Theo would stop complaining and Draco could stop bickering with Flora. Harry watched his friends with amusement; it was good to see them relaxed and having fun. The tall Durmstrang student that had caught Harry's attention approached them and the Guild adopted their public persona.

"Good morning. My name is Viktor Krum and I was selected as the representative of my school. I apologize for our three peers - they were out of place and we will keep them in line," the male said with little accent. His posture was rigid and his visage serious.

"Good morning. Please, have a seat," Daphne offered with grace. The boy nodded and sat on a couch that was close enough to be polite but respected their space at the same time.

"Do you enjoy your quarters, or is there anything that you wish to add?" Cedric asked, and a few members smiled at the initiative of the boy.

"They are much better than the rooms at Durmstrang. The bathrooms are also interesting. I especially enjoyed the 'shower' and the 'jacuzzi'," the male said, pronouncing the foreign words with deliberate slowness.

"I am glad that you enjoy them. Are the other students enjoying their rooms?" Daphne asked.

"They are. We were not expecting to have quarters that were so comfortable."

"Excellent. Don't forget to tell us if you need anything or if you have any suggestions," Theo told the older male, who nodded and seemed to be debating whether to ask them something. "We'll answer any question you have," he assured.

"Is it true that you don't discriminate against muggle-borns?" Viktor asked with caution.

"We call them first-generation magicals," Harry explained to the boy. "My mother was one and she was an exceptional witch. It would be hypocritical of me."

"My father is a Pureblood, but my mother is a first-generation witch," he explained, doubting a little when applying the foreign term. "In my country, they face discrimination to the point of not being accepted in school, so I want to thank you for teaching my classmates a different ideology," Victor said, standing up and giving them a deep bow.

"You don't have to thank us," Luna told the foreigner. "I know that she loves you so much that she would do it over again just to be with you," the girl said with a gentle smile and the boy's eyes widened in surprise. "He's one of us," Luna told Harry.

"Are you willing to keep a secret?" Harry asked the still shocked boy, who nodded dumbly. "Our Luna knows much more than we do because she has eyes that are able to see beyond ours," he explained, and their poor guest looked utterly confused.

"I was not expecting that," Viktor muttered after a short moment.

"No one expects our modus operandi to be doing Luna's bidding even though she's the smallest squirt in the room," Adrian shrugged and was rewarded by a grin from the alluded girl.

"I'll tell no one," said squirt promised. "But I understand how you feel. We all do. Anyway, have you ever tried sweet rice cakes? I've been craving them for a few days."

"I don't think I ever have," Victor answered, more confused than he had ever been by the awkward situation and strange question.

"You can join us for breakfast. I think you will enjoy the variety of food that we have," the girl said.

The Guild, plus their new member, walked to their usual place, where a variety of food appeared in front of them. With practised ease, they ignored the room's stares at their new addition. Luna's hand shot for the sweet rice cake plate, which she claimed for herself and swatted Draco's hand when he tried to get one, glaring at anyone who tried to do the same.

"This part is the traditional English breakfast. Most of us enjoy it, but Harry doesn't," Daphne explained to their new member. "If you enjoy lighter food we also have different kinds of yoghurts with fruit and cereal. You can also try Harry's breakfast. He's particular with his tastes and it's rare when he eats something different."

Viktor eyed the boy's food with bewilderment, it looked more like a meal than normal breakfast. There was rice, soup, fish, vegetables, and a few other things he was unable to identify. Deciding to go for the safe choice, he chose to try the English breakfast and, perhaps, try the bowls of yoghurt with fresh fruit, but he kept eyeing the strange food.

"The reason I have this is because I enjoy it and I'm used to eating it," Harry explained and the Bulgarian boy looked at his food with his cheeks burning. "Don't worry about it; I'm used to being asked. When I travelled to the Asian Empire, this food was traditional and I enjoy it. It's light and highly nutritious," he shrugged and began eating.

"I am sorry if I made you uncomfortable," Viktor apologized, but he was waved off.

"As I said, don't worry. My sister is always teasing me about my eating habits."

"Try this," the blonde girl ordered and handed him a small square of something. With a shrug, he put it in his mouth. His eyebrows rose in surprise at the unexpected texture and rich flavour. "It's good, right?"

"Why did you give him one and not me?" Draco complained.

"Because I like him better," Luna answered, wearing an impish smile.

Much to Harry's relief, that was the moment the owls arrived. Perhaps those two would now save their discussion for another time. Hedwig glided to him, her white plumage almost shining with the sunlight. The boy grabbed the sausage plate, earning a glare from Blaise in the process. His bird landed on his shoulder and preened his hair while he untied the newspaper and signalled his owl the plate to eat. The headlines in the newspaper would certainly cause a scandal that would provide quality entertainment and facilitate their plans.

CORNELIUS FUDGE: THE FRAUDULENT AND CORRUPT!

By Rita Skeeter

My dear readers, the news that I have to deliver today are nothing but the harsh truth. For years, Cornelius Fudge has caused different controversies, the most notable being: placing Dementors on Hogwarts grounds, reinstating a perilous Tournament, and his inaction while dealing with the Dark Lord. Until now, I tolerated his mishaps in the hope that he would change. However, his last decision was enough to make me oppose him.

Last Friday, Fudge awarded himself the title of Order of Merlin, First class. You read that right, my fellow citizens! As we know, the title and that particular category are awarded to exceptional war heroes such as Harry Potter, our saviour. What has this man done to be seen under the same category? As far as I remember, his term is less than distinguished and below satisfactory. This controversial event led me to investigate the man we elected as Minister. I am disturbed by my findings and I am sure, my dear readers, that you will agree with me.

Cornelius Fudge's school performance was average at best. He obtained eight OWLs and five NEWTs, which should have not been enough to be Minister in the first place. However, those were turbulent times and more than one mistake was made. With Bagnold resigning, Crouch's son being a Death Eater, and Dumbledore rejecting the position, only one person was left. This situation would not have been so bad if my research had not revealed terrible details from his term in office.

Minister Fudge was the one who pushed for the DMLE funds to be cut and he was also the one who opposed most of the people who were trying to fund that important department. The problem is, where did those cut funds go during all these years? Not a single department in the Ministry was awarded extra income; on the other hand, many budgets were cut. Speaking with the employees, I discovered a terrible detail! The funds were disguised to appear as if the departments still received the money when Cornelius Fudge used them for his own benefit.

It was strange that, throughout the years, the man had managed to afford his own manor and multiple luxurious trips, but I would never have imagined that Fudge was using our money to live a life of decadence.

If you don't believe my words, my fellow citizens, go and investigate it yourselves. The average wage of every Minister is twenty-four thousand Galleons a year, enough money to live comfortably, but not nearly enough to afford a manor. Also, the records about the funds are in the public domain and are available to anyone who requests a copy in the Ministry. You will see how they are still listed as department funds when we all know that the reason why the DMLE is able to work is not because of the money they receive from the government, but because of the generous donations from Lord Black and Harry Potter.

If this is not enough to convince you, my fellow witches and wizards, I have listed below every single one of Cornelius Fudge's eccentric purchases, a few of which are: pure Acromantula silk suits, a handcrafted gold chess set, a trip to the Bermuda triangle with special reservations to enjoy time with the sirens, multiple marble and gold statues, and so on. If you read the complete list, you will be as enraged as I am, especially when you see that the average cost of each is more than many of us make in a year.

By now, you must understand my indignation with the man, who promises many things but, so far, has accomplished nothing! If this situation was not enough, I have also uncovered further scandalous information. Cornelius Fudge has received multiple bribes over the years to push for multiple reforms in the Wizengamot. I have managed to obtain a copy of his account (see pages 3 and 4), thanks to a woman who works under him and wishes to see justice made. You will notice that the 'donations' were given by 'upstanding' society members, many of whom avoided Azkaban because they claimed to be under the Imperius. The meetings of the Wizengamot are in the public domain and, if you compare the dates, you will notice how they coincide with the 'donations' being deposited into Fudge's personal account.

I will not tolerate this man as Minister for another day! I call for your aid, my fellow citizens, to force him to submit an audit of the Ministry's funds and, hopefully, prove me wrong. Let's ask for an audit of his personal finances and perhaps he will be able to explain the origins of his fortune.

Never forget that we are the ones that decide who is in power and, if Cornelius Fudge is not willing to submit himself to the DMLE for audits, that means he has something to hide. I know that Madam Bones is nothing less than honest, so she will unveil the truth. We are no longer gullible; we are the proud citizens of Magical Britain and we deserve a Minister who will look out for our safety instead of their pockets.

Today, I will be in the Ministry, raising my voice against corruption, and I hope that you are with me. May Mother Magic lead us through this precarious situation!

Harry finished reading the article with a chuckle, handing the paper to a curious Viktor. He looked around the hall and saw the students whispering among each other while pointing the newspaper with clear disapproval. Perhaps it was not going to be the best publicity for Magical Britain, but it would ensure the idiot's crimes were not kicked under the rug.

"Do you think Madam Bones will arrest him?" Adrian asked.

"I have no idea, though she may have received an anonymous letter to watch out in case of a possible escape attempt, plus all the information Fudge wants hidden," Harry answered, taking a bite of his meal.

"So how will we push for Madam Bones to be the next Minister?" Terrence asked.

"Rita will publish an interesting article tomorrow about the exemplary actions of Sirius' girlfriend, plus the idiot, Lucius, and Neville's grandmother will push for her to be selected by the Wizengamot as interim Minister," Harry explained.

"From that position, it will be easy to convince her and the people that she will be the best option," Neville muttered.

"That's the plan. Ragnok will empty the idiot's vault and hand all the money to Madam Bones in a show of good faith. It will be a coincidence if Rita happens to get hold of that information," Harry suggested.

"So your Minister is corrupt," Viktor said after reading the newspaper.

"He's more than that - he's an ignorant idiot!" Hestia huffed.

"Quite a scandal with so many foreign representatives," the Bulgarian boy commented.

"That, dear, is the whole point of the matter," Daphne retorted, her wide smile making her look like the Cheshire cat.

In that bizarre way, Viktor Krum joined the Guild. He especially enjoyed his unconventional friendship with Luna, who was the key to helping the boy loosen up and become an active member. Before the week was over, he had adjusted to their dynamic and enjoyed having people who appreciated him for being Viktor and were not interested in his public persona.

"You're a professional Quidditch player?" Flora asked the older boy with wide, incredulous eyes.

"Since I was fifteen," Viktor confirmed.

"I knew, but didn't think it was too important," Cedric commented, losing a game of chess against Theo and cursing under his breath.

"So that's why we're followed by giggling dunces," Hestia mussed.

"I may kill your fans if they keep trying to follow us," Daphne warned the boy.

Viktor had been pleased with their answers. For the first time, he had real friends and not people who either liked to speak with the son of Iker Krum or who wished to befriend the Quidditch player Krum, rather than meeting the real Viktor. He had never felt more accepted and he rejoiced in the feeling. Somehow, he had been dragged to this unconventional group that ruled Slytherin with an iron hand but, at the same time, protected the house with zeal. Unlike what people believed, Viktor was far from stupid. He knew that the Guild was not a game or a simple club; they held an unrivalled power over the school. They were people who would inherit powerful positions and whose families had enough money to buy a country. They were powerful in their own rights and had no qualms over using their influence to change things... He joined, knowing there was no way back... The thing is, he did not wish to return.

Harry Potter observed as Viktor Krum integrated with the Guild with unexpected ease. The older boy had opened up to them and they discovered a few disquieting facts about his life. He was a Half-blood; his father was a Pureblood and his mother a first-generation. In the Slavic Regions, in general, people were more vocal about their dislike for first-generations, so his father kept his mother hidden to protect his reputation. Viktor's mother, Svetlana Krum, nee Dobrev, was a talented witch, according to the boy. He narrated how his mother had taught him from a young age and how loving she was. Thanks to the fact that his mother was almost a prisoner because of his father's lack of braveness, Viktor grew up with an intense loathing towards blood purity and, though it was not stated, it was obvious that his father was among the things he hated. His biggest dream was to free his mother and make sure she lived happily, swearing that he would always be proud of the great woman who had raised him.

Harry realized that, while all the members in the Guild had different stories, they were all similar and their greatest desire was to protect the ones they loved. The boy admired Viktor for being able to have the patience to craft a plan that would guarantee his plans worked. The only reason he had become a Quidditch player was because it would give him the fame he needed to fulfil his machinations. Although he did not reveal what he was planning to do, you did not need to be a seer to know that getting rid of the man that had helped to give him life was a vital part of it. The Guild did not need to voice their support and he understood that, when the time came, they would help him.

The members of the Guild were sitting in their space in the Slytherin common room for the last time that week, eager to go back to their headquarters. Just as Luna said, the three students did not even dare to look up while they were in the room and did not cause any sort of trouble. Viktor informed them of how the other Durmstrang students had threatened them to control themselves or be excommunicated from their peers and be sent back to their school in shame. It appeared that the headmaster believed in self-government and did not interfere in student affairs unless it was necessary. The other students enjoyed their accommodations so much that they had no qualm in controlling their wayward members.

"We have Martial Magic classes in a few hours," Theo groaned. During the first day of the week, they were informed that the whole Guild was part of the advanced classes, save for Justin, but he was working hard to catch up, so they knew he would join the group soon.

"I believed that learning dark arts was hard, but it's nothing compared to your cruel teachers," Viktor almost whimpered. It seemed that Professor Flitwick had left an impression.

"You'll thank him later," Hestia muttered, glaring at the chessboard. She was losing a game against Blaise and, if she hated one thing, it was losing.

"I am sure I will, but for now I can complain," he retorted, ignoring the glare from the small girl. Harry noticed a prefect waiting to approach them and he signalled for his friends to remain quiet.

"Hello. Is there something you need?" he asked the girl. She did not meet his eyes, but her stance was firm.

"Good evening, sir," she greeted, her excited tone confusing him. "You ordered us to inform you if any of the foreign students looked uncomfortable or lonely. There is a Beauxbatons girl who is always by herself. Few of her peers speak with her, and it may have to do with her Veela heritage. I tried to approach her, but she was polite and denied having any problems," she informed them.

"Thank you, Emilia. We'll take care of her. Do you know her name or the places she frequents?" Terrence asked.

"Her name is Fleur Delacour. She is in the library most of the time, but there are times when she is in the inner courtyard."

"Thank you. You have been helpful. Is there any way we can reward you?" Harry asked her.

"I aim to serve; that is my reward," the girl gushed, almost glowing in happiness.

"Very well, then. Thank you again, Emilia. You can leave," Harry told the prefect, who left wearing a wide smile.

"What's wrong with her?" Fred asked to no one in particular.

"Her name is Emilia Selwyn. She adores Harry," Terrence answered.

"So she has a crush on our handsome Potter," Cedric teased.

"No, she literally adores him. She sees him as a deity and she's not the only one," Terrence explained. "If Harry said that he was the only person in the castle allowed to have arms, then, she would remove everyone else's arms and then her own, just because he said so," he said, looking disturbed at the idea.

"I'll pretend I never heard that," Harry muttered, "I'll go to search for the girl."

"I'm coming with you!" Luna informed him. "We'll meet in Professor Munter's class," she said and grabbed Harry's hand, dragging him out of the room.

Monday 19th of September, Headmaster's Office, Hogwarts

Albus was nursing a half-empty bottle of Firewhisky. The day had been hard and the week would only become increasingly difficult.

This morning, when that article had been published, he had run towards the Ministry. However, he was not the only one with that idea; dozens of people were protesting in the atrium, led by an enraged Rita Skeeter. He decided to avoid the crowd and took the Floo to Cornelius' office, where he was not the first to arrive.

Madam Bones, Sirius Black, and Kingsley Shacklebolt were in the office, pointing their wands at Fudge, who was as pale as a ghost. He took a few steps and realized there was another person in the room. Marcus Travers was pointing at him with his wand, ready to take action in case he intervened in the arrest.

"Amelia, you have to let me go! I'll be sentenced to Azkaban or even worse," the Minister begged.

"You're under arrest. We will question you under Veritaserum and, for the last time Cornelius, if you don't come with us willingly, we will force you," the woman threatened, wearing her head of the DMLE persona. In a desperate attempt to flee, Fudge tried to cast a blasting spell on the roof, but his wand disappeared from his hand and he was unconscious before any of the Aurors reacted.

"Excellent reflexes," Kingsley complimented the youngest person in the room.

"And no one believes me when I say he's wasted as an undersecretary," Sirius muttered.

"I only did my duty. I refuse to cover for any crimes," Marcus announced and Amelia smiled at the young man.

"You are an exemplary worker, Mister Travers. I believe it's time to question him and call for an immediate Wizengamot meeting," Madam Bones announced.

"I'll take care of it, love. You question the wanker and try to arrive on time," Sirius told the woman, who nodded and left the room along with Kingsley, levitating an unconscious Fudge.

"So what are you doing here, Albus?" Sirius asked him casually.

"I came to check on the situation," the old man answered.

"Then I don't think you'll object to helping me call for an emergency meeting in an hour. After all, we need a new Minister," the man said with a wide smile.

Albus had not been able to make any excuses and he ended up helping Sirius who, most of the time, ignored him, but assigned him small tasks to prevent him from leaving. With that hurdle in his way, he was unable to contact any of his allies to set up a possible interim Minister. In less than an hour, the meeting chambers were full and everyone was waiting.

"Good morning and welcome to this session. I believe that most of you know the reason why we are here today but, in case you don't, I will explain. Cornelius Fudge has been arrested and, even if he was innocent, the backlash will not allow him to remain in his position. Any ideas on who may be the interim Minister until selections are called?" the headmaster asked, looking at Elphias to encourage the man to speak. However, Lucius Malfoy raised his wand instead.

"I believe there is only one person for that position. Madam Bones has been nothing but helpful and she is a prime example of leadership. I suggest Amelia Bones for the position," Malfoy announced and many seemed to agree.

"Amelia Bones has an excellent head on her shoulders and is a powerful witch, more than capable to assume the position," Griselda Marchbanks announced, supporting Malfoy.

"Madam Bones has proved to be an excellent leader and I have no doubt that she will continue doing an excellent job," Miss Blair announced, representing the ill Greengrass’ family patriarch.

Albus watched with morbid fascination as most of the members of the Wizengamot raised their hands, not waiting for him to give the order. In a matter of a few minutes, the interim Minister was chosen and the headmaster could only hope that the woman rejected the offer. Amelia Bones was too brutal and assertive for his liking, never afraid of his disapproval.

"I thank you for the trust you have placed in me and I swear I will honour it and do my best until the new Minister is chosen," she promised, and any kind of hope Albus may have held was destroyed by that simple sentence.

Amelia's methods were nothing the headmaster approved of and he was sure the woman would try to impose many of her beliefs on the Ministry. So he would try to contain her until a new Minister was chosen. Perhaps Elphias could try his luck. That way, he would have someone he trusted in that important position, but he could worry about it tomorrow. That night was dedicated to nursing his ego and lamenting how everything had complicated, with his trusted alcohol offering comfort.

Crouch Manor, Somewhere in Durham

Tom Riddle observed from his throne as the Healer they managed to convince to join them tended Bellatrix. The woman looked frail and sick, something that annoyed and disturbed him at the same time. He was so used to seeing his general as powerful that her weak state disgusted and unnerved him in equal measures... Voldemort glanced at his own body and almost screamed in frustration. The man he had fought was powerful indeed and, had he joined him, he would have avoided a painful demise.

What disturbed him the most about that battle was not the man's power - it was his knowledge. Voldemort had gone to great lengths to ensure no one discovered his origins or heritage. It seemed he had left something behind that needed to be erased. If his followers discovered his father was a filthy Muggle, he would lose much of the support he needed to achieve his plans. Another thing that frustrated him was his lack of success. He would have never imagined that the useless people would fight back, but they did. Therefore, he ensured they were too terrified to fight back by using Inferi, and his plan had worked at the beginning. How was he supposed to know the DMLE had a special unit filled with heavy hitters?

Madam Bones was turning out to be troublesome, so her imminent demise was being planned. Lucius Malfoy was also being difficult; the man not only refused to return to his ranks but was also actively opposing him, signing his death sentence on the way. Sirius Black was yet another problem, financing the DMLE and becoming one of his greatest hurdles in the Wizengamot. He would be dealt with too. However, disposing of these threats was not easy. Greyback had almost disappeared from the world from one day to another, leaving no trace of where he could have gone. That disgusting werewolf was one of his best assassination tools along with the leaders of the vampire covens, who had not joined him this time.

Somehow, all the advantages and weapons he had possessed during the previous war were taken away. No werewolf or vampire joined him, recruiting was hard, he was being blocked by the Wizengamot, and the fear he once inspired in the magical population was almost non-existent. If that was not enough, his Dementors had somehow been slaughtered en masse, cutting their numbers almost in half. His giants were also murdered and when the others noticed they did not come back, they decided to leave his ranks. Voldemort did not know who had managed to damage his forces, but whoever it was, had earned a life of torture and no mercy.

Barty, his loyal servant, was already in position to ensure his plans would work. Soon, he would return as powerful as ever and teach the morons that had dared to doubt his power why should you never question your superiors... His Horcruxes would be retrieved throughout the year and he could not wait to have them back.

He felt a painful shudder taking hold of his body and began coughing. His loyal Nagini slithered to him and injected her venom into his body, relieving the pain. Tom petted the snake with numb arms... Revenge would come later - what he needed now was a new body.