Chapter 194
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In contrast to the older students' hesitation, the younger ones were far more excited.
The revised rules clearly worked in their favor.
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"Finally," Dumbledore said, his tone turning serious,
"I must remind all who wish to participate—this is not a game."
"Once chosen by the Goblet of Fire, you are bound by a magical contract."
"You cannot withdraw."
"So think very carefully before submitting your name."
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With that, he concluded:
"Good night."
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"I'm really curious," Fleur said, looking at Malfoy,
"how you plan to break through Dumbledore's restriction."
"I've heard he's the most powerful wizard alive."
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"He can't possibly stop every student," Malfoy replied casually.
"It shouldn't be that difficult."
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His tone was indifferent, but his thoughts were not.
His goal had never changed—
To stand on the same level as Dumbledore and Voldemort.
Schemes and tricks were secondary.
Only strength truly mattered.
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"Sister! I want to participate too!"
A clear, childish voice sounded from behind.
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It was Gabrielle.
She looked up eagerly, her bright eyes full of expectation.
Clearly, she had no real understanding of the tournament's danger.
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"I'll be watching you closely until tomorrow," Fleur said, pinching her cheeks.
"Honestly… have you even looked at yourself in the mirror after eating?"
She wiped cream from the corner of Gabrielle's mouth.
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"Big brother, you'll join, right?"
Gabrielle twisted free slightly, still looking at Malfoy.
"Yes," he answered simply.
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"Then I'll cheer for you!"
She smiled brightly, her eyes curving into crescents.
Then she added quickly—
"I'll cheer for my sister too!"
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Malfoy glanced at them both.
"Sisters…" he muttered under his breath,
"…are troublesome."
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At that moment, more students began looking their way.
The younger boys, in particular, were clearly drawn to Gabrielle.
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Dumbledore's voice rose again.
"I believe tonight will be a restless one for many of you," he said with a chuckle.
"I have a suggestion."
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"As hosts, Hogwarts students may act as guides."
"You may show our guests around the castle—and familiarize yourselves with potential locations for the tournament."
"Remember—though you will be rivals, you are also friends."
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Immediately, attention split in two directions:
Toward Viktor Krum, the famous Seeker
Toward Fleur, whose presence was equally hard to ignore
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But soon, most boys abandoned the second option.
Fleur had already moved closer to Malfoy.
The implication was obvious.
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"You're putting me on display," Malfoy said quietly.
"You can consider it part of my revenge," Fleur replied, blinking playfully.
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"Plenty of people would welcome this kind of revenge," Malfoy said dryly, glancing at the jealous looks around him.
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"I declare you dismissed," Dumbledore announced.
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At once, a crowd surged toward Viktor Krum.
"Let me guide you!"
"Me too!"
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Krum looked overwhelmed.
He was used to cheers in a stadium—
Not this kind of close attention.
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"Enough."
A firm voice cut through the noise.
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Karkaroff stepped forward, stroking his goatee.
"Krum needs rest," he said coldly.
"He caught a chill during the journey."
"He will not be touring Hogwarts."
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His tone carried clear displeasure.
He even suspected ulterior motives behind the enthusiasm.
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"Come, Viktor," he added more gently.
"There is wine aboard. It will help."
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"Professor, can I have some too?" another Durmstrang boy asked eagerly.
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"I wasn't speaking to you, Poliakoff," Karkaroff snapped instantly.
His expression turned harsh.
"You've stained your robes again. Disgraceful."
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"Pathetic fangirling," Fleur said dismissively.
Then she turned to Malfoy.
"Come on—my guide."
"I want to see Hogwarts."
"Perhaps we'll even find the future competition grounds."
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Malfoy raised an eyebrow.
"Someone was praising Beauxbatons just now…"
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"That was your imagination," Fleur replied smoothly, covering her mouth as she laughed.
"Besides…"
She looked at him with a faint smile.
"If you do well, I might go easy on you during the tournament."
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"Then I truly appreciate your mercy," Malfoy replied flatly.
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The two moved off together—
Under the watchful, envious gazes of the entire hall.