The Story of the Marauders

Thirty: Harry

HARRY

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"Dragons?" Harry stared at the shining scales of the creatures in cages just yards in front of him. Their blazing fire could be felt from where he stood. Hagrid glanced down at him, looking in awe instead of horror like Harry.

"Bea'iful ain't they?" He sighed. Harry opened and closed his mouth but words would not come to him. Not when you have to fight them.

"Sure, Hagrid, but what am I supposed to do about them?" Harry breathed. His voice was an octave higher than usual. Hagrid puffed out his cheeks and shook his head slightly.

"I can't be of much help, I'm afraid. Just thought you might like to know." Hagrid said quietly, ashamed. Maybe his godparents would have better advice.

~~~~~

Dragons? The letter began. Harry huffed and acknowledged the fact that maybe no one could help him. Merlin, Harry, this is crazy for Dumbeldore to even allow this! I was upset when I found out a boy of only fourteen was being forced into this tournament...

Harry scoffed. He felt the same. As the letter scrolled on, Harry knew it took them a while to write this response, for both of his godparents' handwriting seemed to collaborate in their reply. Sirius was writing to him now.

I've never had an experience with a dragon before, and nothing I've heard is helpful. But Calysta says that because the creatures are bigger than you, it does not mean that they are slower. So you've got be very fast. They are possessive of their territory and belongings, so it will not be wise to try and steal from a dragon. So naturally, we have come to believe that the first stage will have something to do with that fact. Expect that you will be outmatched. The words changed again suddenly, Calysta now wrote to him.

Harry, your godfather is not being of much help. Let me tell you this: you can't bring anything but your wand, so make it worth having. Dragons are predators, do not hide from them, they will find you. Instead, escape from them. You still have your Firebolt from Sirius, yes? I recommend summoning it. A dragon's body is built for agility, but they're not good at making quick turns. Good thing that broom of yours can! Get that dragon in the air as soon as you can, then dive to the ground. That dragon will have no choice but to slow its flight to land safely. By then, you should be able to complete whatever task you are presented with.

With love, Calysta and Sirius

(By the way Harry, that article about you and the other Champions in the Daily Prophet was absolutely ridiculous. That Rita woman must be a piece of work!)

Harry let out a breath. The useful information got Harry thinking of how many possible scenarios could include a dragon. Flying? Capturing? Taking something from its hoard? Harry had no idea what the tournament would hold. Why couldn't Harry catch a break for one year?

~~~~~

The four Champions stood in a circle around the Minister for Magic, whom of which was presenting the different dragons. Harry wanted nothing more than to get it over with, even if that meant going first. But alas, he was the final Champion to compete. They were to retrieve a Golden Egg the dragon was guarding.

"The Welsh Green," Fleur Delacour's miniature dragon snapped at her from her palm. The smoking bag was presented to Viktor Krum.

"Chinese Fireball. A rather stunning dragon, I dare say." The Minister laughed; no one joined him. Viktor narrowed his eyes at the serpentine dragon that sported what looked like a lion's mane.