"Tsk, tsk, navigating underwater and surfacing like that—much cooler than flying through the skies. After all, the scenery beneath the waves has its own charm," Malfoy remarked with amusement, his gaze fixed on the ship from Durmstrang, which resembled an ancient pirate vessel emerging from the depths.
People began disembarking from the ship. Harry and the others could make out silhouettes illuminated by the lanterns on board. Harry noticed that their figures resembled those of Crabbe and Goyle—large and imposing. But as they approached the light streaming from the castle, Harry realized their bulk was due to the thick, fur-lined cloaks they wore. The fur was tangled and coarse, except for the leader's, which was silver-white, smooth, and sleek, much like his hair.
"Dumbledore!" the man called enthusiastically as he ascended the slope. "My dear old friend, how are you?"
"Excellent, thank you, Professor Karkaroff," Dumbledore replied warmly.
Lilian's crimson eyes flickered with disdain. "It's ironic. His trial didn't ruin his career; it paved his way to becoming Durmstrang's headmaster. A perfect example of misfortune turning into fortune. Among his fellow Death Eaters, this sly old fox has come out on top."
"Opportunists thrive in turbulent times. Recognizing Voldemort's fall and quickly switching sides to climb the ladder—such cunning individuals know how to play their cards. Especially those without powerful connections; adapting to the tide is their only path to success. Every era has its share of such people," Loki said with a cold smirk.
Augustus chuckled softly. Loki wasn't wrong—small players have their own methods of survival. Not everyone is born at the pinnacle of the pyramid. To climb to a place where others look up to you requires sacrifices that are unfathomable to most.
"My dear old Hogwarts," Karkaroff continued, looking up at the castle with a smile. His teeth were yellow, and Harry noticed that while his mouth smiled, his eyes remained cold and sharp. "It's so good to be here… Viktor, come closer and warm up. You don't mind, do you, Dumbledore? Poor Viktor has caught a bit of a cold."
As the Durmstrang delegation entered the castle, Hogwarts students displayed enthusiastic hospitality. A group of sixth-year girls rummaged frantically through their pockets.
"Oh, I can't believe it! I didn't bring a single quill!"
"Do you think he'd sign my hat with lipstick?"
Inside the Great Hall, the Beauxbatons students were seated at the Ravenclaw table. They glanced around the hall with solemn expressions, their faces shrouded in gloom. Three of them remained bundled up in scarves and headwraps.
"Over here! Sit here!" Ron rasped, staring eagerly at Krum. "Here! Hermione, scoot over a bit and make room—"
His efforts were in vain. The Durmstrang students followed Krum to the Slytherin table instead. Krum sat opposite Augustus, his icy expression softening into a polite smile.
"Good evening, Mr. Augustus. We met briefly during the World Cup. Even in Scandinavia, your family's reputation precedes you. Our headmaster once hoped to recruit you to Durmstrang, but unfortunately, Hogwarts claimed you first. A real pity."
Augustus smiled lightly. "Your performance at the World Cup was impressive. Durmstrang's ability to nurture such talent speaks volumes about the school's strength."
Krum's face lit up with a genuine smile. "You flatter me, Mr. Augustus. I look forward to competing alongside you in the Triwizard Tournament. It will be an honor, even if I lose, to face someone of your caliber."
Augustus waved a hand modestly. "The champions haven't been chosen yet. It's too early to speculate. But if the opportunity arises, I would look forward to it as well."
Krum nodded but clearly didn't think anyone besides Augustus from Hogwarts was worth considering. Cedric? Never heard of him. Harry? Just a lucky boy.
Malfoy, who had initially admired Krum as a world-class Seeker, now felt even more drawn to him for his praise of Augustus. The two began chatting amiably.
Over at the Gryffindor table, Ron muttered bitterly, "Yeah, Malfoy's sucking up to him, no surprise there. I'll bet Krum can see right through him. Probably gets sycophants like that wherever he goes. You know, we could let him stay in our dormitory. I'd give up my bed for him and sleep on a camp bed instead."
Hermione snorted in disdain.
Dumbledore stood at the center of the hall, and the chatter gradually quieted.
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, ghosts, and—most importantly—our honored guests," Dumbledore began, his eyes twinkling as he addressed the foreign students. "It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Hogwarts. I hope you will feel comfortable and joyful here."
One of the Beauxbatons girls, still bundled in her scarf, let out a derisive laugh.
Loki glanced at her. "Strong magical foundation, but pity she's a girl."
Lilian shot him a sharp glare, prompting Loki to cough awkwardly, realizing his misstep.
"The Triwizard Tournament will officially commence after the feast," Dumbledore continued. "Now, I invite you all to eat, drink, and make yourselves at home!"
As the feast began, the Slytherin table remained relatively quiet, while the Gryffindors chattered excitedly like cicadas in summer. At the Ravenclaw table, the Beauxbatons leader unwrapped her scarf, revealing a cascade of silver-blonde hair that fell to her waist. Her piercing blue eyes and flawless smile drew the attention of nearly every Hogwarts student in the hall.
Krum noticed Malfoy's intrigued gaze and smirked. "That's Fleur Delacour, Beauxbatons' likely champion. She'll probably represent them in the tournament."
Want to read the chapters in Advance? Join my Patreon
https://patreon.com/Glimmer09