Chapter 96: 96
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Next few days were.... weird. All houses, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin were giving cold shoulder to Gryffindors, specially Hufflepuffs. Chris, Ginny and Colin started to sit back at Gryffindor table for Harry. As Hermione keep dragging Harry to sit with Ron and her, after two days, Harry got sick of Ron's cold responses and completely ignoring him. So, he started to sit with Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin. To everyone's surprise Harry was actually enjoying Colin's company.
Chris didn't say to her friends about the talk between her and Dumbledore. She just said she'll help Harry, that's all Dumbledore asked her to do.
Mr Lovegood, Luna's father asked Chris to write another article on the Triwizard Tournament as the last Quibbler was a hit because of Chris's article.
Sirius had came to visit Dumbledore, mostly he was furious how Harry got in but then as soon as Dumbledore assured him, he encouraged Harry to do great on the championship. He looked more cheerful than Fred and George. Harry felt a little relived after meeting Sirius. Sirius tried to meet Chris too but because of she was in Transfiguration class, he couldn't. At dinner Harry laughed a lot, saying that Sirius decided not to cross McGonagall as he feels McGonagall can still give him detention for doing something out of place.
Chris realized how much effect Sirius have on Harry. They just met few months ago and now only he can assure Harry and cheer him in this kind situation.
"Divination cancelled." Colin said as Chris sat for lunch in the Great Hall after her Ancient Runes class.
"Really?" Chris asked.
"Yeah, Professor Trelawney is not well. Remember she told us she was going to have fever." Luna said casually.
"Lucky you." Harry said sitting beside Chris. "We've double potions this afternoon."
"C'mon Harry, Potions is not that bad." Chris said smiling.
"Bad? Bad? Chris?" Colin looked shocked. "Harry ignore her, she just found her ultimate interest in Potions this year. That's why she felt it's so cheerful."
Harry chuckled.
"Shut up Colin." Chris rolled her eyes.
"Honestly though, Snape is not exactly in good mood after Harry was choosen champion." Ginny said. "Not like he stays in good mood anytime but he's more unbearable now days."
"True." Colin replied.
"Fine, I guess he's unbearable." Chris said with a sigh. "I feel he's a great Potion-maker but not a good teacher. I mean, literally Neville's biggest fear is Snape."
"Heard you were helping Neville with his antidote research." Harry asked.
"Yeah a bit." Chris replied.
"I think Snape is going to test that today. I'm sure he's going to poison me or Neville." Harry sighed.
After lunch Harry went to Potions and Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin decided to take a walk near the lake. But as soon as they left the Great Hall, Fawkes came flying towards Chris, with a note.
Chris took the note from him as he sat on her shoulder. While her friends admired the bird, Chris read the note. It was from Dumbledore.
"What's it?" Luna asked.
"There going to be a Wand Weighing ceremony for champions." Chris said burning the note into a near by torch. "I asked Dumbledore about interviewing the champions, for Quibbler. He said I can do it today as Rita Skeeter will also be there."
"What's Wand Weighing ceremony?" Colin asked.
"No idea." Chris replied.
"When is it?" Ginny asked.
"Now." Chris replied.
They all just entered the Entrance Hall, when Chris saw Ludo Bagman with a paunchy man, holding a large black camera and a witch wearing magenta robes and clutching a crocodile-skin handbag.
"They brought Photographer. They're not going to need me." Colin said a little sadly.
Ludo Bagman was asking few students to fetch Cedric Diggory and Harry Potter. Almost instantly three students agreed to bring Cedric but no one seems to get Harry.
"Do you think we should say something?" Ginny asked.
"Go ahead." Chris replied.
"We'll bring Harry Potter sir." Colin said at once.
"Excellent. Do you know where is he?" Ludo Bagman smiled.
"Yes. We know." Ginny replied.
"Great then, we're in that room." Ludo Bagman pointed a corner room and walked towards it with the photographer.
As they tried to turn, the witch in magenta robes blocked their way.
"So are you Harry Potter's friends dear?" She asked Colin and Ginny.
"Yes we're." Ginny replied.
"Very good than you could tell me a bit about him." She said smiling.
Somehow Chris doesn't like her smile.
"And who's asking the questions?" Chris snapped.
"Oh right, I didn't introduce myself." She said looking at Chris still smiling. "I'm Rita Skeeter. Daily Prophet reporter."
"Very nice to meet you Miss Skeeter but I think we should go and call Harry. I think it's more important." Luna replied.
The sarcasm was so clear in Luna's voice that Chris needed effort to control her laugh.
"Sure, but there is no hurry dear." Rita Skeeter smiles again. "So as I was saying... are you the only friends of Harry Potter?"
"No we're not. His best friend is Hermione Granger and Ron Weasl...." Colin abruptly seeing Chris, Ginny and Luna's faces.
"Thank you dear. Anything else you want to say?" Rita Skeeter asked.
"No. We're on our way." Chris said and dragged Colin away from her.
"Sorry." Colin muttered.
"It's alright. I don't think she'll write anything about what you told her." Chris replied.
Soon, they were about reach the Dungeon when a girl came running towards them, face hidden behind her hands. She collided straight into Ginny.
Chris caught Ginny before falling and the girl looked up...
"Hermione!" Four of them said, shocked.
Hermione was crying, covering her mouth as something was coming out of her mouth, long up to her chest. Chris soon realized what is it.
"Hermione is that your teeth? Who did this to you?" Chris asked angrily.
Hermione couldn't speak because of her teeth, but seeing Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin's concerned face she burst into tears.
"It's alright Hermione. It's alright." Ginny patted her back. "We just need to go to the hospital wing."
"Yes. Hurry a little. It's still growing." Luna said.
"Don't worry Hermione. It's going to be fine." Chris said walking with her.
"Chris! Harry." Colin reminded her.
"Oh yes. Chris, you go, get Harry. We're taking Hermione to Hospital wing." Ginny said as she, Luna and Colin ran with Hermione towards the hospital wing.
With a sigh, Chris turned around and went towards the Potions classroom.
She knocked on the classroom door and entered. Instantly she understood who did that to Hermione. Gryffindors was having their class with Slytherins. Malfoy was still smirking and Ron and Harry's faces were dark. While walking to Snape's desk she noticed all Slytherins were wearing some kind of badges.
"Yes?" said Snape curtly.
"Sorry to disturb you sir but Mr Ludo Bagman wants Harry upstairs." Chris replied.
Snape stared down his hooked nose at Chris, she still stood confidently.
"Potter has another hour of Potions to complete," said Snape coldly. "He will come upstairs when this class is finished."
"Please Professor, it's important. The champions had the Wand Weighing ceremony. They need all four of them." Chris replied.
"Very well, very well," Snape snapped. "Potter, leave your things here, I want you back down here later to test your antidote."
"Sorry again Professor but I don't think he'll be able to come back." Chris said. "The ceremony will be long."
"Looks like you know very well about this things." Snape's face darkned. "Are YOU going to do the ceremony?"
Almost all of the Slytherins laughed. The Gryffindors glared at Snape.
"No Professor, I'm still not that capable." Chris replied smiling. "I'm just doing what I'm asked to do."
"Very well!" said Snape. "Potter — take your bag and get out of my sight!"
Harry swung his bag over his shoulder, got up, and headed for the door. Chris followed him. As she walked through the Slytherin desks, Chris realized what was written on the Slytherins badges. With a bright green light the Badges were showing same message, POTTER STINKS.
Chris gave a glare towards Malfoy, which he noticed.
"It was Malfoy wasn't it?" Chris said closing the dungeon door behind. "Hermione's teeth snd those badges?"
"Yes." Harry sighed. "How's Hermione?"
"Ginny, Luna and Colin took her to the hospital wing." Chris replied.
"So what's this Wind Weighing?" Harry asked.
"Don't know anything about that.... I just know Rita Skeeter is there." Chris said seriously as they set off toward the steps into the entrance hall. "She already tried to know things about you, from us. So be careful around her."
"Rita Skeeter? What's she doing here?" Harry asked surprised.
"It's not just a ceremony. There is a photographer, from the Daily Prophet I guess. Rita Skeeter will be taking interviews too that's why I'm going there." Chris said.
"You're coming with me?" Harry looked really happy. "Why?"
"Another article for Quibbler. Triwizard Tournament Champions." Chris replied as they had reached the right room.
Harry looked really surprised then looked impressed as he knocked on the door and entered. Chris entered after him.
They were in a fairly small classroom; most of the desks had been pushed away to the back of the room, leaving a large space in the middle; three of them, however, had been placed end-to-end in front of the blackboard and covered with a long length of velvet. Five chairs had been set behind the velvet-covered desks, and Ludo Bagman was sitting in one of them, talking to Rita Skeeter.
Viktor Krum was standing moodily in a corner as usual and not talking to anybody. Cedric and Fleur were in conversation. Fleur looked a good deal happier than Harry had seen her so far; she kept throwing back her head so that her long silvery hair caught the light. The photographer holding a large black camera that was smoking slightly, was watching Fleur out of the corner of his eye.
Bagman suddenly spotted Harry, got up quickly, and bounded forward.
"Ah, here he is! Champion number four! In you come, Harry, in you come … nothing to worry about, it's just the wand weighing ceremony, the rest of the judges will be here in a moment ..."
Bagman spotted Chris.
"Thank you for bringing him. I think we'll manage from here."
"I think you've misunderstood Mr Bagman." Chris smiled. "I'm here for the same reason as Miss Skeeter."
"Same reason?" Rita Skeeter raised her eyebrows between her elaborate and curiously rigid curls that contrasted oddly with her heavy-jawed face.
"Yes. Miss Skeeter. I'm writing a article too about the Tournament on Quibbler." Chris replied still smiling.
"That's great. So young age and so ambitious. Really nice." Bagman beamed. "So back to the Wand Weighing ceremony, Harry."
"So what's this Wand weighing?" Harry asked nervously.
"We have to check that your wands are fully functional, no problems, you know, as they're your most important tools in the tasks ahead," said Bagman. "The expert's upstairs now with Dumbledore. And then there's going to be a little photo shoot. This is Rita Skeeter. She's doing a small piece on the tournament for the Daily Prophet. …"
"Maybe not that small, Ludo," said Rita Skeeter, curtly looking at Chris then turning her eyes on Harry. "I wonder if I could have a little word with Harry before we start? The youngest champion, you know … to add a bit of color?
"Certainly!" cried Bagman. "That is — if Harry has no objection?"
Harry looked more nervous.
"I don't think that will be wise, Miss Skeeter." Chris said. "Maybe I'm young but I know that much. There are four champions here and also another person who's also writing an article about the same topic. I think, you should ask Harry questions in front of everyone."
Rita Skeeter narrowed her eyes, "No one ever dared to stop me like this, do you know that young lady?"
"I'm sure of that, Miss Skeeter but you see, everything have a first time." Chris replied smiling.
Rita Skeeter glared at Chris, Chris also didn't take her eyes of Rita. Finally Bagman cleared his throat loudly,
"I think.... er.... Rita.... you can ask questions here... if you don't mind... you know everyone will be here any minitue now." Bagman said looking at his watch.
"Alright Ludo." Rita snapped and dragged Harry to a corner.
Chris rolled her eyes and went to talk Fleur and Cedric.
By the looks of their faces they've heard everything, as a result, Victor Krum also joined them. Chris asked them various questions related Tournament when suddenly she heard Harry's angry voice.
"I didn't enter," said Harry, with an irritated tone.
"Can you remember your parents at all?" said Rita Skeeter, talking over him.
Cedric, Fleur and Victor all of them were aware of the story of Harry Potter. Clearly Rita's question made them a little uncomfortable, specially Cedric.
"I'm glad she is not taking my interview." Cedric whispered to Chris. "Are you not going to help him?"
"How do you think they'd feel if they knew you were competing in the Triwizard Tournament? Proud? Worried? Angry?" Came Rita's next question.
"Probably annoyed." Chris said loudly.
Rita sharply looked at her.
"I mean my parents would be very annoyed Miss Skeeter, if you were asking this kind of questions to me." Chris continued. "I think you're out of questions about the tournament." Almost everyone chuckled. Chris smiled, "I hope you don't mind, I need to talk to Harry a little for my article."
Rita Skeeter was preparing herself for a nasty response but before she could, Dumbledore entered with Madame Maxime, Karkaroff, Mr Crouch and Chris noticed the man behind them, the wand maker Ollivander.
"Dumbledore!" cried Rita Skeeter, with every appearance of delight, "How are you?" she said, standing up and holding out one of her large, mannish hands to Dumbledore. "I hope you saw my piece over the summer about the International Confederation of Wizards' Conference?"
"Enchantingly nasty," said Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling. "I particularly enjoyed your description of me as an obsolete dingbat."
Rita Skeeter didn't look remotely abashed.
"I was just making the point that some of your ideas are a little old-fashioned, Dumbledore, and that many wizards in the street —"
"I will be delighted to hear the reasoning behind the rudeness, Rita," said Dumbledore, with a courteous bow and a smile, "but I'm afraid we will have to discuss the matter later. The Weighing of the Wands is about to start."
Suddenly Mr Crouch noticed Chris, "What're you doing here?" He asked sharply.
"Oh she is here to write an article about the tournament, Crouch. I gave her permission to be here." Dumbledore said smiling.
"But she's just a Hogwarts student. I guess, the article wouldn't be impartial then." Karkaroff snorted.
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"Oh it'll be Karkaroff. I've full faith in Christina's impartiality." Dumbledore said looking at Chris. "If you're not convinced then you can read her last article on Quibbler.... about the Quidditch World Cup. Wonderfully written."
"Christina....? Christina Norton?" Rita snapped. "You were the one who wrote that false Quidditch World Cup article on that rubbish Quibbler? I thought it was one of the Ministry employees."
"I don't know about Quibble, Rita but I can assure you the article wasn't false." Mr Crouch said, surprising everyone.
'Though I didn't come here to compete Rita Skeeter but seems like I'm winning.' Chris thought and smirked.
"I think we should take places." Dumbledore said stopping the argument.
Everyone nodded. The four champions sat in chairs near the door, Dumbledore, Karkaroff, Madame Maxime, Mr. Crouch, and Ludo Bagman sat at the velvet-covered table. Rita Skeeter settled herself down in a corner; Chris saw her slip a parchment out of her bag, spread it on her knee, suck the end of the Quick-Quotes Quill, and place on the parchment. Chris sat a little far from the Champions.
"May I introduce Mr. Ollivander?" said Dumbledore, "He will be checking your wands to ensure that they are in good condition before the tournament."
"Mademoiselle Delacour, could we have you first, please?" said Mr. Ollivander, stepping into the empty space in the middle of the room.
Fleur Delacour swept over to Mr. Ollivander and handed him her wand.
"Hmmm …" he said.
He twirled the wand between his long fingers like a baton and it emitted a number of pink and gold sparks. Then he held it close to his eyes and examined it carefully.
"Yes," he said quietly, "nine and a half inches … inflexible … rosewood … and containing … dear me …"
"An 'air from ze 'ead of a veela," said Fleur. "One of my grandmuzzer's."
'So Fleur was part veela,' thought Chris. 'That's why her aura wasn't strong like the other Veela.'
"Yes," said Mr. Ollivander, "yes, I've never used veela hair myself, of course. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands … however, to each his own, and if this suits you …"
Mr. Ollivander ran his fingers along the wand, apparently checking for scratches or bumps; then he muttered, "Orchideous!" and a bunch of flowers burst from the wand tip.
"Very well, very well, it's in fine working order," said Mr. Ollivander, scooping up the flowers and handing them to Fleur with her wand. "Mr. Diggory, you next."
Fleur glided back to her seat, smiling at Cedric as he passed her.
"Ah, now, this is one of mine, isn't it?" said Mr. Ollivander, with much more enthusiasm, as Cedric handed over his wand. "Yes, I remember it well. Containing a single hair from the tail of a particularly fine male unicorn … must have been seventeen hands; nearly gored me with his horn after I plucked his tail. Twelve and a quarter inches … ash … pleasantly springy. It's in fine condition. … You treat it regularly?"
"Polished it last night," said Cedric, grinning.
Chris saw Harry gathered a fistful of robe from his knee and tried to rub it clean surreptitiously. Several gold sparks shot out of the end of it. Chris chuckled.
Mr. Ollivander sent a stream of silver smoke ring from Cedric's wand then examined Krum and Harry's wand. Then after a quick photoshoot, in which Rita Skeeter kept hurrying forward and dragging Harry into greater prominence. Then at last Dumbledore said they can head for dinner.
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Next few days were.... weird. All houses, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin were giving cold shoulder to Gryffindors, specially Hufflepuffs. Chris, Ginny and Colin started to sit back at Gryffindor table for Harry. As Hermione keep dragging Harry to sit with Ron and her, after two days, Harry got sick of Ron's cold responses and completely ignoring him. So, he started to sit with Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin. To everyone's surprise Harry was actually enjoying Colin's company.
Chris didn't say to her friends about the talk between her and Dumbledore. She just said she'll help Harry, that's all Dumbledore asked her to do.
Mr Lovegood, Luna's father asked Chris to write another article on the Triwizard Tournament as the last Quibbler was a hit because of Chris's article.
Sirius had came to visit Dumbledore, mostly he was furious how Harry got in but then as soon as Dumbledore assured him, he encouraged Harry to do great on the championship. He looked more cheerful than Fred and George. Harry felt a little relived after meeting Sirius. Sirius tried to meet Chris too but because of she was in Transfiguration class, he couldn't. At dinner Harry laughed a lot, saying that Sirius decided not to cross McGonagall as he feels McGonagall can still give him detention for doing something out of place.
Chris realized how much effect Sirius have on Harry. They just met few months ago and now only he can assure Harry and cheer him in this kind situation.
"Divination cancelled." Colin said as Chris sat for lunch in the Great Hall after her Ancient Runes class.
"Really?" Chris asked.
"Yeah, Professor Trelawney is not well. Remember she told us she was going to have fever." Luna said casually.
"Lucky you." Harry said sitting beside Chris. "We've double potions this afternoon."
"C'mon Harry, Potions is not that bad." Chris said smiling.
"Bad? Bad? Chris?" Colin looked shocked. "Harry ignore her, she just found her ultimate interest in Potions this year. That's why she felt it's so cheerful."
Harry chuckled.
"Shut up Colin." Chris rolled her eyes.
"Honestly though, Snape is not exactly in good mood after Harry was choosen champion." Ginny said. "Not like he stays in good mood anytime but he's more unbearable now days."
"True." Colin replied.
"Fine, I guess he's unbearable." Chris said with a sigh. "I feel he's a great Potion-maker but not a good teacher. I mean, literally Neville's biggest fear is Snape."
"Heard you were helping Neville with his antidote research." Harry asked.
"Yeah a bit." Chris replied.
"I think Snape is going to test that today. I'm sure he's going to poison me or Neville." Harry sighed.
After lunch Harry went to Potions and Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin decided to take a walk near the lake. But as soon as they left the Great Hall, Fawkes came flying towards Chris, with a note.
Chris took the note from him as he sat on her shoulder. While her friends admired the bird, Chris read the note. It was from Dumbledore.
"What's it?" Luna asked.
"There going to be a Wand Weighing ceremony for champions." Chris said burning the note into a near by torch. "I asked Dumbledore about interviewing the champions, for Quibbler. He said I can do it today as Rita Skeeter will also be there."
"What's Wand Weighing ceremony?" Colin asked.
"No idea." Chris replied.
"When is it?" Ginny asked.
"Now." Chris replied.
They all just entered the Entrance Hall, when Chris saw Ludo Bagman with a paunchy man, holding a large black camera and a witch wearing magenta robes and clutching a crocodile-skin handbag.
"They brought Photographer. They're not going to need me." Colin said a little sadly.
Ludo Bagman was asking few students to fetch Cedric Diggory and Harry Potter. Almost instantly three students agreed to bring Cedric but no one seems to get Harry.
"Do you think we should say something?" Ginny asked.
"Go ahead." Chris replied.
"We'll bring Harry Potter sir." Colin said at once.
"Excellent. Do you know where is he?" Ludo Bagman smiled.
"Yes. We know." Ginny replied.
"Great then, we're in that room." Ludo Bagman pointed a corner room and walked towards it with the photographer.
As they tried to turn, the witch in magenta robes blocked their way.
"So are you Harry Potter's friends dear?" She asked Colin and Ginny.
"Yes we're." Ginny replied.
"Very good than you could tell me a bit about him." She said smiling.
Somehow Chris doesn't like her smile.
"And who's asking the questions?" Chris snapped.
"Oh right, I didn't introduce myself." She said looking at Chris still smiling. "I'm Rita Skeeter. Daily Prophet reporter."
"Very nice to meet you Miss Skeeter but I think we should go and call Harry. I think it's more important." Luna replied.
The sarcasm was so clear in Luna's voice that Chris needed effort to control her laugh.
"Sure, but there is no hurry dear." Rita Skeeter smiles again. "So as I was saying... are you the only friends of Harry Potter?"
"No we're not. His best friend is Hermione Granger and Ron Weasl...." Colin abruptly seeing Chris, Ginny and Luna's faces.
"Thank you dear. Anything else you want to say?" Rita Skeeter asked.
"No. We're on our way." Chris said and dragged Colin away from her.
"Sorry." Colin muttered.
"It's alright. I don't think she'll write anything about what you told her." Chris replied.
Soon, they were about reach the Dungeon when a girl came running towards them, face hidden behind her hands. She collided straight into Ginny.
Chris caught Ginny before falling and the girl looked up...
"Hermione!" Four of them said, shocked.
Hermione was crying, covering her mouth as something was coming out of her mouth, long up to her chest. Chris soon realized what is it.
"Hermione is that your teeth? Who did this to you?" Chris asked angrily.
Hermione couldn't speak because of her teeth, but seeing Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin's concerned face she burst into tears.
"It's alright Hermione. It's alright." Ginny patted her back. "We just need to go to the hospital wing."
"Yes. Hurry a little. It's still growing." Luna said.
"Don't worry Hermione. It's going to be fine." Chris said walking with her.
"Chris! Harry." Colin reminded her.
"Oh yes. Chris, you go, get Harry. We're taking Hermione to Hospital wing." Ginny said as she, Luna and Colin ran with Hermione towards the hospital wing.
With a sigh, Chris turned around and went towards the Potions classroom.
She knocked on the classroom door and entered. Instantly she understood who did that to Hermione. Gryffindors was having their class with Slytherins. Malfoy was still smirking and Ron and Harry's faces were dark. While walking to Snape's desk she noticed all Slytherins were wearing some kind of badges.
"Yes?" said Snape curtly.
"Sorry to disturb you sir but Mr Ludo Bagman wants Harry upstairs." Chris replied.
Snape stared down his hooked nose at Chris, she still stood confidently.
"Potter has another hour of Potions to complete," said Snape coldly. "He will come upstairs when this class is finished."
"Please Professor, it's important. The champions had the Wand Weighing ceremony. They need all four of them." Chris replied.
"Very well, very well," Snape snapped. "Potter, leave your things here, I want you back down here later to test your antidote."
"Sorry again Professor but I don't think he'll be able to come back." Chris said. "The ceremony will be long."
"Looks like you know very well about this things." Snape's face darkned. "Are YOU going to do the ceremony?"
Almost all of the Slytherins laughed. The Gryffindors glared at Snape.
"No Professor, I'm still not that capable." Chris replied smiling. "I'm just doing what I'm asked to do."
"Very well!" said Snape. "Potter — take your bag and get out of my sight!"
Harry swung his bag over his shoulder, got up, and headed for the door. Chris followed him. As she walked through the Slytherin desks, Chris realized what was written on the Slytherins badges. With a bright green light the Badges were showing same message, POTTER STINKS.
Chris gave a glare towards Malfoy, which he noticed.
"It was Malfoy wasn't it?" Chris said closing the dungeon door behind. "Hermione's teeth snd those badges?"
"Yes." Harry sighed. "How's Hermione?"
"Ginny, Luna and Colin took her to the hospital wing." Chris replied.
"So what's this Wind Weighing?" Harry asked.
"Don't know anything about that.... I just know Rita Skeeter is there." Chris said seriously as they set off toward the steps into the entrance hall. "She already tried to know things about you, from us. So be careful around her."
"Rita Skeeter? What's she doing here?" Harry asked surprised.
"It's not just a ceremony. There is a photographer, from the Daily Prophet I guess. Rita Skeeter will be taking interviews too that's why I'm going there." Chris said.
"You're coming with me?" Harry looked really happy. "Why?"
"Another article for Quibbler. Triwizard Tournament Champions." Chris replied as they had reached the right room.
Harry looked really surprised then looked impressed as he knocked on the door and entered. Chris entered after him.
They were in a fairly small classroom; most of the desks had been pushed away to the back of the room, leaving a large space in the middle; three of them, however, had been placed end-to-end in front of the blackboard and covered with a long length of velvet. Five chairs had been set behind the velvet-covered desks, and Ludo Bagman was sitting in one of them, talking to Rita Skeeter.
Viktor Krum was standing moodily in a corner as usual and not talking to anybody. Cedric and Fleur were in conversation. Fleur looked a good deal happier than Harry had seen her so far; she kept throwing back her head so that her long silvery hair caught the light. The photographer holding a large black camera that was smoking slightly, was watching Fleur out of the corner of his eye.
Bagman suddenly spotted Harry, got up quickly, and bounded forward.
"Ah, here he is! Champion number four! In you come, Harry, in you come … nothing to worry about, it's just the wand weighing ceremony, the rest of the judges will be here in a moment ..."
Bagman spotted Chris.
"Thank you for bringing him. I think we'll manage from here."
"I think you've misunderstood Mr Bagman." Chris smiled. "I'm here for the same reason as Miss Skeeter."
"Same reason?" Rita Skeeter raised her eyebrows between her elaborate and curiously rigid curls that contrasted oddly with her heavy-jawed face.
"Yes. Miss Skeeter. I'm writing a article too about the Tournament on Quibbler." Chris replied still smiling.
"That's great. So young age and so ambitious. Really nice." Bagman beamed. "So back to the Wand Weighing ceremony, Harry."
"So what's this Wand weighing?" Harry asked nervously.
"We have to check that your wands are fully functional, no problems, you know, as they're your most important tools in the tasks ahead," said Bagman. "The expert's upstairs now with Dumbledore. And then there's going to be a little photo shoot. This is Rita Skeeter. She's doing a small piece on the tournament for the Daily Prophet. …"
"Maybe not that small, Ludo," said Rita Skeeter, curtly looking at Chris then turning her eyes on Harry. "I wonder if I could have a little word with Harry before we start? The youngest champion, you know … to add a bit of color?
"Certainly!" cried Bagman. "That is — if Harry has no objection?"
Harry looked more nervous.
"I don't think that will be wise, Miss Skeeter." Chris said. "Maybe I'm young but I know that much. There are four champions here and also another person who's also writing an article about the same topic. I think, you should ask Harry questions in front of everyone."
Rita Skeeter narrowed her eyes, "No one ever dared to stop me like this, do you know that young lady?"
"I'm sure of that, Miss Skeeter but you see, everything have a first time." Chris replied smiling.
Rita Skeeter glared at Chris, Chris also didn't take her eyes of Rita. Finally Bagman cleared his throat loudly,
"I think.... er.... Rita.... you can ask questions here... if you don't mind... you know everyone will be here any minitue now." Bagman said looking at his watch.
"Alright Ludo." Rita snapped and dragged Harry to a corner.
Chris rolled her eyes and went to talk Fleur and Cedric.
By the looks of their faces they've heard everything, as a result, Victor Krum also joined them. Chris asked them various questions related Tournament when suddenly she heard Harry's angry voice.
"I didn't enter," said Harry, with an irritated tone.
"Can you remember your parents at all?" said Rita Skeeter, talking over him.
Cedric, Fleur and Victor all of them were aware of the story of Harry Potter. Clearly Rita's question made them a little uncomfortable, specially Cedric.
"I'm glad she is not taking my interview." Cedric whispered to Chris. "Are you not going to help him?"
"How do you think they'd feel if they knew you were competing in the Triwizard Tournament? Proud? Worried? Angry?" Came Rita's next question.
"Probably annoyed." Chris said loudly.
Rita sharply looked at her.
"I mean my parents would be very annoyed Miss Skeeter, if you were asking this kind of questions to me." Chris continued. "I think you're out of questions about the tournament." Almost everyone chuckled. Chris smiled, "I hope you don't mind, I need to talk to Harry a little for my article."
Rita Skeeter was preparing herself for a nasty response but before she could, Dumbledore entered with Madame Maxime, Karkaroff, Mr Crouch and Chris noticed the man behind them, the wand maker Ollivander.
"Dumbledore!" cried Rita Skeeter, with every appearance of delight, "How are you?" she said, standing up and holding out one of her large, mannish hands to Dumbledore. "I hope you saw my piece over the summer about the International Confederation of Wizards' Conference?"
"Enchantingly nasty," said Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling. "I particularly enjoyed your description of me as an obsolete dingbat."
Rita Skeeter didn't look remotely abashed.
"I was just making the point that some of your ideas are a little old-fashioned, Dumbledore, and that many wizards in the street —"
"I will be delighted to hear the reasoning behind the rudeness, Rita," said Dumbledore, with a courteous bow and a smile, "but I'm afraid we will have to discuss the matter later. The Weighing of the Wands is about to start."
Suddenly Mr Crouch noticed Chris, "What're you doing here?" He asked sharply.
"Oh she is here to write an article about the tournament, Crouch. I gave her permission to be here." Dumbledore said smiling.
"But she's just a Hogwarts student. I guess, the article wouldn't be impartial then." Karkaroff snorted.
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"Oh it'll be Karkaroff. I've full faith in Christina's impartiality." Dumbledore said looking at Chris. "If you're not convinced then you can read her last article on Quibbler.... about the Quidditch World Cup. Wonderfully written."
"Christina....? Christina Norton?" Rita snapped. "You were the one who wrote that false Quidditch World Cup article on that rubbish Quibbler? I thought it was one of the Ministry employees."
"I don't know about Quibble, Rita but I can assure you the article wasn't false." Mr Crouch said, surprising everyone.
'Though I didn't come here to compete Rita Skeeter but seems like I'm winning.' Chris thought and smirked.
"I think we should take places." Dumbledore said stopping the argument.
Everyone nodded. The four champions sat in chairs near the door, Dumbledore, Karkaroff, Madame Maxime, Mr. Crouch, and Ludo Bagman sat at the velvet-covered table. Rita Skeeter settled herself down in a corner; Chris saw her slip a parchment out of her bag, spread it on her knee, suck the end of the Quick-Quotes Quill, and place on the parchment. Chris sat a little far from the Champions.
"May I introduce Mr. Ollivander?" said Dumbledore, "He will be checking your wands to ensure that they are in good condition before the tournament."
"Mademoiselle Delacour, could we have you first, please?" said Mr. Ollivander, stepping into the empty space in the middle of the room.
Fleur Delacour swept over to Mr. Ollivander and handed him her wand.
"Hmmm …" he said.
He twirled the wand between his long fingers like a baton and it emitted a number of pink and gold sparks. Then he held it close to his eyes and examined it carefully.
"Yes," he said quietly, "nine and a half inches … inflexible … rosewood … and containing … dear me …"
"An 'air from ze 'ead of a veela," said Fleur. "One of my grandmuzzer's."
'So Fleur was part veela,' thought Chris. 'That's why her aura wasn't strong like the other Veela.'
"Yes," said Mr. Ollivander, "yes, I've never used veela hair myself, of course. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands … however, to each his own, and if this suits you …"
Mr. Ollivander ran his fingers along the wand, apparently checking for scratches or bumps; then he muttered, "Orchideous!" and a bunch of flowers burst from the wand tip.
"Very well, very well, it's in fine working order," said Mr. Ollivander, scooping up the flowers and handing them to Fleur with her wand. "Mr. Diggory, you next."
Fleur glided back to her seat, smiling at Cedric as he passed her.
"Ah, now, this is one of mine, isn't it?" said Mr. Ollivander, with much more enthusiasm, as Cedric handed over his wand. "Yes, I remember it well. Containing a single hair from the tail of a particularly fine male unicorn … must have been seventeen hands; nearly gored me with his horn after I plucked his tail. Twelve and a quarter inches … ash … pleasantly springy. It's in fine condition. … You treat it regularly?"
"Polished it last night," said Cedric, grinning.
Chris saw Harry gathered a fistful of robe from his knee and tried to rub it clean surreptitiously. Several gold sparks shot out of the end of it. Chris chuckled.
Mr. Ollivander sent a stream of silver smoke ring from Cedric's wand then examined Krum and Harry's wand. Then after a quick photoshoot, in which Rita Skeeter kept hurrying forward and dragging Harry into greater prominence. Then at last Dumbledore said they can head for dinner.
Next few days were.... weird. All houses, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin were giving cold shoulder to Gryffindors, specially Hufflepuffs. Chris, Ginny and Colin started to sit back at Gryffindor table for Harry. As Hermione keep dragging Harry to sit with Ron and her, after two days, Harry got sick of Ron's cold responses and completely ignoring him. So, he started to sit with Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin. To everyone's surprise Harry was actually enjoying Colin's company. Chris didn't say to her friends about the talk between her and Dumbledore. She just said she'll help Harry, that's all Dumbledore asked her to do. Mr Lovegood, Luna's father asked Chris to write another article on the Triwizard Tournament as the last Quibbler was a hit because of Chris's article. Sirius had came to visit Dumbledore, mostly he was furious how Harry got in but then as soon as Dumbledore assured him, he encouraged Harry to do great on the championship. He looked more cheerful than Fred and George. Harry felt a little relived after meeting Sirius. Sirius tried to meet Chris too but because of she was in Transfiguration class, he couldn't. At dinner Harry laughed a lot, saying that Sirius decided not to cross McGonagall as he feels McGonagall can still give him detention for doing something out of place. Chris realized how much effect Sirius have on Harry. They just met few months ago and now only he can assure Harry and cheer him in this kind situation. "Divination cancelled." Colin said as Chris sat for lunch in the Great Hall after her Ancient Runes class. "Really?" Chris asked. "Yeah, Professor Trelawney is not well. Remember she told us she was going to have fever." Luna said casually. "Lucky you." Harry said sitting beside Chris. "We've double potions this afternoon." "C'mon Harry, Potions is not that bad." Chris said smiling. "Bad? Bad? Chris?" Colin looked shocked. "Harry ignore her, she just found her ultimate interest in Potions this year. That's why she felt it's so cheerful." Harry chuckled. "Shut up Colin." Chris rolled her eyes. "Honestly though, Snape is not exactly in good mood after Harry was choosen champion." Ginny said. "Not like he stays in good mood anytime but he's more unbearable now days." "True." Colin replied. "Fine, I guess he's unbearable." Chris said with a sigh. "I feel he's a great Potion-maker but not a good teacher. I mean, literally Neville's biggest fear is Snape." "Heard you were helping Neville with his antidote research." Harry asked. "Yeah a bit." Chris replied. "I think Snape is going to test that today. I'm sure he's going to poison me or Neville." Harry sighed. After lunch Harry went to Potions and Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin decided to take a walk near the lake. But as soon as they left the Great Hall, Fawkes came flying towards Chris, with a note. Chris took the note from him as he sat on her shoulder. While her friends admired the bird, Chris read the note. It was from Dumbledore. "What's it?" Luna asked. "There going to be a Wand Weighing ceremony for champions." Chris said burning the note into a near by torch. "I asked Dumbledore about interviewing the champions, for Quibbler. He said I can do it today as Rita Skeeter will also be there." "What's Wand Weighing ceremony?" Colin asked. "No idea." Chris replied. "When is it?" Ginny asked. "Now." Chris replied. They all just entered the Entrance Hall, when Chris saw Ludo Bagman with a paunchy man, holding a large black camera and a witch wearing magenta robes and clutching a crocodile-skin handbag. "They brought Photographer. They're not going to need me." Colin said a little sadly. Ludo Bagman was asking few students to fetch Cedric Diggory and Harry Potter. Almost instantly three students agreed to bring Cedric but no one seems to get Harry. "Do you think we should say something?" Ginny asked. "Go ahead." Chris replied. "We'll bring Harry Potter sir." Colin said at once. "Excellent. Do you know where is he?" Ludo Bagman smiled. "Yes. We know." Ginny replied. "Great then, we're in that room." Ludo Bagman pointed a corner room and walked towards it with the photographer. As they tried to turn, the witch in magenta robes blocked their way. "So are you Harry Potter's friends dear?" She asked Colin and Ginny. "Yes we're." Ginny replied. "Very good than you could tell me a bit about him." She said smiling. Somehow Chris doesn't like her smile. "And who's asking the questions?" Chris snapped. "Oh right, I didn't introduce myself." She said looking at Chris still smiling. "I'm Rita Skeeter. Daily Prophet reporter." "Very nice to meet you Miss Skeeter but I think we should go and call Harry. I think it's more important." Luna replied. The sarcasm was so clear in Luna's voice that Chris needed effort to control her laugh. "Sure, but there is no hurry dear." Rita Skeeter smiles again. "So as I was saying... are you the only friends of Harry Potter?" "No we're not. His best friend is Hermione Granger and Ron Weasl...." Colin abruptly seeing Chris, Ginny and Luna's faces. "Thank you dear. Anything else you want to say?" Rita Skeeter asked. "No. We're on our way." Chris said and dragged Colin away from her. "Sorry." Colin muttered. "It's alright. I don't think she'll write anything about what you told her." Chris replied. Soon, they were about reach the Dungeon when a girl came running towards them, face hidden behind her hands. She collided straight into Ginny. Chris caught Ginny before falling and the girl looked up... "Hermione!" Four of them said, shocked. Hermione was crying, covering her mouth as something was coming out of her mouth, long up to her chest. Chris soon realized what is it. "Hermione is that your teeth? Who did this to you?" Chris asked angrily. Hermione couldn't speak because of her teeth, but seeing Chris, Ginny, Luna and Colin's concerned face she burst into tears. "It's alright Hermione. It's alright." Ginny patted her back. "We just need to go to the hospital wing." "Yes. Hurry a little. It's still growing." Luna said. "Don't worry Hermione. It's going to be fine." Chris said walking with her. "Chris! Harry." Colin reminded her. "Oh yes. Chris, you go, get Harry. We're taking Hermione to Hospital wing." Ginny said as she, Luna and Colin ran with Hermione towards the hospital wing. With a sigh, Chris turned around and went towards the Potions classroom. She knocked on the classroom door and entered. Instantly she understood who did that to Hermione. Gryffindors was having their class with Slytherins. Malfoy was still smirking and Ron and Harry's faces were dark. While walking to Snape's desk she noticed all Slytherins were wearing some kind of badges. "Yes?" said Snape curtly. "Sorry to disturb you sir but Mr Ludo Bagman wants Harry upstairs." Chris replied. Snape stared down his hooked nose at Chris, she still stood confidently. "Potter has another hour of Potions to complete," said Snape coldly. "He will come upstairs when this class is finished." "Please Professor, it's important. The champions had the Wand Weighing ceremony. They need all four of them." Chris replied. "Very well, very well," Snape snapped. "Potter, leave your things here, I want you back down here later to test your antidote." "Sorry again Professor but I don't think he'll be able to come back." Chris said. "The ceremony will be long." "Looks like you know very well about this things." Snape's face darkned. "Are YOU going to do the ceremony?" Almost all of the Slytherins laughed. The Gryffindors glared at Snape. "No Professor, I'm still not that capable." Chris replied smiling. "I'm just doing what I'm asked to do." "Very well!" said Snape. "Potter take your bag and get out of my sight!" Harry swung his bag over his shoulder, got up, and headed for the door. Chris followed him. As she walked through the Slytherin desks, Chris realized what was written on the Slytherins badges. With a bright green light the Badges were showing same message, POTTER STINKS. Chris gave a glare towards Malfoy, which he noticed. "It was Malfoy wasn't it?" Chris said closing the dungeon door behind. "Hermione's teeth snd those badges?" "Yes." Harry sighed. "How's Hermione?" "Ginny, Luna and Colin took her to the hospital wing." Chris replied. "So what's this Wind Weighing?" Harry asked. "Don't know anything about that.... I just know Rita Skeeter is there." Chris said seriously as they set off toward the steps into the entrance hall. "She already tried to know things about you, from us. So be careful around her." "Rita Skeeter? What's she doing here?" Harry asked surprised. "It's not just a ceremony. There is a photographer, from the Daily Prophet I guess. Rita Skeeter will be taking interviews too that's why I'm going there." Chris said. "You're coming with me?" Harry looked really happy. "Why?" "Another article for Quibbler. Triwizard Tournament Champions." Chris replied as they had reached the right room. Harry looked really surprised then looked impressed as he knocked on the door and entered. Chris entered after him. They were in a fairly small classroom; most of the desks had been pushed away to the back of the room, leaving a large space in the middle; three of them, however, had been placed end-to-end in front of the blackboard and covered with a long length of velvet. Five chairs had been set behind the velvet-covered desks, and Ludo Bagman was sitting in one of them, talking to Rita Skeeter. Viktor Krum was standing moodily in a corner as usual and not talking to anybody. Cedric and Fleur were in conversation. Fleur looked a good deal happier than Harry had seen her so far; she kept throwing back her head so that her long silvery hair caught the light. The photographer holding a large black camera that was smoking slightly, was watching Fleur out of the corner of his eye. Bagman suddenly spotted Harry, got up quickly, and bounded forward. "Ah, here he is! Champion number four! In you come, Harry, in you come nothing to worry about, it's just the wand weighing ceremony, the rest of the judges will be here in a moment ..." Bagman spotted Chris. "Thank you for bringing him. I think we'll manage from here." "I think you've misunderstood Mr Bagman." Chris smiled. "I'm here for the same reason as Miss Skeeter." "Same reason?" Rita Skeeter raised her eyebrows between her elaborate and curiously rigid curls that contrasted oddly with her heavy-jawed face. "Yes. Miss Skeeter. I'm writing a article too about the Tournament on Quibbler." Chris replied still smiling. "That's great. So young age and so ambitious. Really nice." Bagman beamed. "So back to the Wand Weighing ceremony, Harry." "So what's this Wand weighing?" Harry asked nervously. "We have to check that your wands are fully functional, no problems, you know, as they're your most important tools in the tasks ahead," said Bagman. "The expert's upstairs now with Dumbledore. And then there's going to be a little photo shoot. This is Rita Skeeter. She's doing a small piece on the tournament for the Daily Prophet. " "Maybe not that small, Ludo," said Rita Skeeter, curtly looking at Chris then turning her eyes on Harry. "I wonder if I could have a little word with Harry before we start? The youngest champion, you know to add a bit of color? "Certainly!" cried Bagman. "That is if Harry has no objection?" Harry looked more nervous. "I don't think that will be wise, Miss Skeeter." Chris said. "Maybe I'm young but I know that much. There are four champions here and also another person who's also writing an article about the same topic. I think, you should ask Harry questions in front of everyone." Rita Skeeter narrowed her eyes, "No one ever dared to stop me like this, do you know that young lady?" "I'm sure of that, Miss Skeeter but you see, everything have a first time." Chris replied smiling. Rita Skeeter glared at Chris, Chris also didn't take her eyes of Rita. Finally Bagman cleared his throat loudly, "I think.... er.... Rita.... you can ask questions here... if you don't mind... you know everyone will be here any minitue now." Bagman said looking at his watch. "Alright Ludo." Rita snapped and dragged Harry to a corner. Chris rolled her eyes and went to talk Fleur and Cedric. By the looks of their faces they've heard everything, as a result, Victor Krum also joined them. Chris asked them various questions related Tournament when suddenly she heard Harry's angry voice. "I didn't enter," said Harry, with an irritated tone. "Can you remember your parents at all?" said Rita Skeeter, talking over him. Cedric, Fleur and Victor all of them were aware of the story of Harry Potter. Clearly Rita's question made them a little uncomfortable, specially Cedric. "I'm glad she is not taking my interview." Cedric whispered to Chris. "Are you not going to help him?" "How do you think they'd feel if they knew you were competing in the Triwizard Tournament? Proud? Worried? Angry?" Came Rita's next question. "Probably annoyed." Chris said loudly. Rita sharply looked at her. "I mean my parents would be very annoyed Miss Skeeter, if you were asking this kind of questions to me." Chris continued. "I think you're out of questions about the tournament." Almost everyone chuckled. Chris smiled, "I hope you don't mind, I need to talk to Harry a little for my article." Rita Skeeter was preparing herself for a nasty response but before she could, Dumbledore entered with Madame Maxime, Karkaroff, Mr Crouch and Chris noticed the man behind them, the wand maker Ollivander. "Dumbledore!" cried Rita Skeeter, with every appearance of delight, "How are you?" she said, standing up and holding out one of her large, mannish hands to Dumbledore. "I hope you saw my piece over the summer about the International Confederation of Wizards' Conference?" "Enchantingly nasty," said Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling. "I particularly enjoyed your description of me as an obsolete dingbat." Rita Skeeter didn't look remotely abashed. "I was just making the point that some of your ideas are a little old-fashioned, Dumbledore, and that many wizards in the street " "I will be delighted to hear the reasoning behind the rudeness, Rita," said Dumbledore, with a courteous bow and a smile, "but I'm afraid we will have to discuss the matter later. The Weighing of the Wands is about to start." Suddenly Mr Crouch noticed Chris, "What're you doing here?" He asked sharply. "Oh she is here to write an article about the tournament, Crouch. I gave her permission to be here." Dumbledore said smiling. "But she's just a Hogwarts student. I guess, the article wouldn't be impartial then." Karkaroff snorted. Find authorized novels in Webnovelfaster updates, better experiencePlease click www.novelhall.com www.webnovel.com for visiting. "Oh it'll be Karkaroff. I've full faith in Christina's impartiality." Dumbledore said looking at Chris. "If you're not convinced then you can read her last article on Quibbler.... about the Quidditch World Cup. Wonderfully written." "Christina....? Christina Norton?" Rita snapped. "You were the one who wrote that false Quidditch World Cup article on that rubbish Quibbler? I thought it was one of the Ministry employees." "I don't know about Quibble, Rita but I can assure you the article wasn't false." Mr Crouch said, surprising everyone. 'Though I didn't come here to compete Rita Skeeter but seems like I'm winning.' Chris thought and smirked. "I think we should take places." Dumbledore said stopping the argument. Everyone nodded. The four champions sat in chairs near the door, Dumbledore, Karkaroff, Madame Maxime, Mr. Crouch, and Ludo Bagman sat at the velvet-covered table. Rita Skeeter settled herself down in a corner; Chris saw her slip a parchment out of her bag, spread it on her knee, suck the end of the Quick-Quotes Quill, and place on the parchment. Chris sat a little far from the Champions. "May I introduce Mr. Ollivander?" said Dumbledore, "He will be checking your wands to ensure that they are in good condition before the tournament." "Mademoiselle Delacour, could we have you first, please?" said Mr. Ollivander, stepping into the empty space in the middle of the room. Fleur Delacour swept over to Mr. Ollivander and handed him her wand. "Hmmm " he said. He twirled the wand between his long fingers like a baton and it emitted a number of pink and gold sparks. Then he held it close to his eyes and examined it carefully. "Yes," he said quietly, "nine and a half inches inflexible rosewood and containing dear me " "An 'air from ze 'ead of a veela," said Fleur. "One of my grandmuzzer's." 'So Fleur was part veela,' thought Chris. 'That's why her aura wasn't strong like the other Veela.' "Yes," said Mr. Ollivander, "yes, I've never used veela hair myself, of course. I find it makes for rather temperamental wands however, to each his own, and if this suits you " Mr. Ollivander ran his fingers along the wand, apparently checking for scratches or bumps; then he muttered, "Orchideous!" and a bunch of flowers burst from the wand tip. "Very well, very well, it's in fine working order," said Mr. Ollivander, scooping up the flowers and handing them to Fleur with her wand. "Mr. Diggory, you next." Fleur glided back to her seat, smiling at Cedric as he passed her. "Ah, now, this is one of mine, isn't it?" said Mr. Ollivander, with much more enthusiasm, as Cedric handed over his wand. "Yes, I remember it well. Containing a single hair from the tail of a particularly fine male unicorn must have been seventeen hands; nearly gored me with his horn after I plucked his tail. Twelve and a quarter inches ash pleasantly springy. It's in fine condition. You treat it regularly?" "Polished it last night," said Cedric, grinning. Chris saw Harry gathered a fistful of robe from his knee and tried to rub it clean surreptitiously. Several gold sparks shot out of the end of it. Chris chuckled. Mr. Ollivander sent a stream of silver smoke ring from Cedric's wand then examined Krum and Harry's wand. Then after a quick photoshoot, in which Rita Skeeter kept hurrying forward and dragging Harry into greater prominence. Then at last Dumbledore said they can head for dinner.
