No one noticed how long Filch had already been standing in the corner of the hall. Carrying an ancient, jewel-encrusted chest, he walked toward Dumbledore. The students buzzed with excitement, chattering nonstop, while Lockhart stared fixedly at the box.
"Mr. Scrimgeour and Mr. Bagman have already examined the tasks that this year's champions will face," Dumbledore said. As he spoke, Filch carefully placed the chest on the table before him. "They have made all necessary preparations for each challenge. The three tasks will span the entire school year, testing the champions in different ways—their magical ability, courage, reasoning, and, of course, their ability to face danger."
"The three champions will be selected by the Goblet of Fire!"
As his words fell, the chest opened by itself, revealing a large wooden goblet inside, filled with blue-white flames dancing within.
All Lockhart had to do was keep an eye on this cup. As long as it properly selected only three champions, no matter how capable Barty Crouch Jr. was, he wouldn't be able to send Harry Potter away.
"Those wishing to enter must write their name and school clearly on a piece of parchment and drop it into the Goblet," Dumbledore continued. "You have 24 hours to submit your names. Tomorrow evening—Halloween—the Goblet will choose the most worthy champions to represent their schools."
"Tonight, the Goblet will be placed in the Entrance Hall for all who wish to enter. To prevent underage students from giving in to temptation," Dumbledore said, "I will draw an Age Line around it—no one under seventeen will be able to cross it."
"Finally, let me remind you: this tournament is not something to enter lightly. Once selected, a champion is bound to compete to the end. Placing your name in the Goblet constitutes a binding magical contract. Therefore, think very carefully before entering."
"Now, I believe it's time for bed. Good night."
The crowd gradually dispersed. Lockhart, however, dragged a stool to the entrance hall and sat down.
He trusted only his own eyes.
He decided to watch the Goblet for the entire 24 hours—anyone attempting to tamper with it would be attacked immediately.
Some students gathered at a distance, whispering and watching the Goblet, likely discussing ways to bypass the age restriction.
Lockhart observed as students came one by one, tossing in their names and leaving.
After submitting her name, Fleur Delacour walked over to him.
"Mr. Lockhart, what are you doing here? Aren't you going to rest?"
Her voice, like silver bells, broke his thoughts.
"Ah, I'm just watching who enters… and I'm curious about how the Age Line works."
"Not only do you enjoy adventure, Professor, you also study such obscure magic. You really have wide interests."
"Actually, I'm far more interested in a beautiful young lady like you," Lockhart said with a sly smile.
"You're quite the joker, Professor. I've always loved your books—could I have your autograph?" Fleur looked at him with her bright, captivating eyes.
"Of course, my pleasure!"
After signing, Fleur bid him goodbye.
Lockhart took some potions to keep himself awake and glared at the Goblet all night. It was a crude method—but effective.
The night passed quietly. No one came.
Only Filch, arriving early the next morning to clean, was startled by the sight of Lockhart still sitting there.
After breakfast, many students gathered again in the entrance hall to watch the Goblet.
Notably, Pandora Fudge, upon learning that Lockhart hadn't eaten, brought him some food. In return, he awarded Slytherin five points—causing a stir among nearby students.
Suddenly, laughter broke out.
Fred and George Weasley came rushing down the stairs, looking extremely excited.
"It worked!" Fred bragged to the surrounding students before heading toward the Goblet.
Seeing this scene play out exactly like in the original storyline made Lockhart feel powerless. He even suspected the Goblet had already been Confunded, making all his efforts meaningless.
A surge of anger rose within him.
"Fred! What do you think you're doing? I believe you're not seventeen yet!"
Fred jumped, only now noticing Lockhart in the corner.
"Get out of here—unless you want Gryffindor to lose points!"
Fred muttered something under his breath and left hurriedly with George. Lockhart guessed it wasn't anything polite. The other students whispered among themselves.
As time passed, Lockhart watched student after student submit their names. No one attempted anything suspicious.
He began to relax.
Then the "Golden Trio" appeared, approaching him as if they wanted to talk.
"Harry, go get me some lunch," Lockhart said first.
"Oh—okay, Professor." Harry, as always, was obedient in front of him.
Harry returned with four portions, and the four of them ate together.
"Professor, what are you doing here?" Ron asked, speaking with his mouth full.
"I have a bad feeling someone intends to use the Triwizard Tournament to harm Harry."
"Harm Harry?" Hermione said in surprise. "But Harry can't even enter!"
"Exactly why I'm here—to prevent anyone from tampering with the Goblet," Lockhart said, spearing a piece of chicken.
"But I'm not seventeen," Harry said, pausing. "Even if someone entered me, I couldn't compete."
"The age rule was only set this time. And there are always… ways to fool magical objects like the Goblet."
"Professor, you're protecting Harry so much—but he might not even appreciate it," Ron added. "He really wants to enter—eternal glory!"
Lockhart looked at Harry seriously. "Harry, promise me—don't be reckless. You have something far more important at stake."
Harry sighed. "Alright, Professor. I won't enter."