After the banquet drew to a close, the guests and students in the Great Hall rose to leave.
"Pheobe, dear, it's time we went back to rest!" Madame Maxime glanced briefly at Jerry, then called gently to Pheobe.
"All right, then. See you tomorrow, Jerry!" Pheobe smiled, slipped her arms around Jerry's shoulders, and kissed him lightly on the cheek goodbye.
Then she took Gabrielle's hand and followed Madame Maxime out of the Great Hall, smiling as she went. Around Jerry, students stared at him with open envy.
Meanwhile, Karkaroff hurried over to his students.
"Everyone, back to the ship to rest," he announced. His gaze settled on Viktor. "How are you feeling, Viktor? Was the food to your liking? Shall I ask the Hogwarts Kitchens to prepare some wine for you?"
Another Durmstrang boy, Poliakoff, eyed the prospect of wine eagerly. "Professor, I'd like a glass too!"
Professor Karkaroff's expression hardened at once. "Poliakoff, I did not ask for your opinion." His fatherly warmth gave way to stern disapproval. "You've spilled food on your robes again!"
With that, Karkaroff turned and led his students toward the doors, where they happened upon Harry, Ron, Neville, and Hermione.
Jerry headed over to Hermione. There were a few things he felt he needed to explain—or at least talk his way out of. He already had plans for both Hermione and Pheobe. After all... In the future, you'll both be my wings!
There was no rush with Hermione. Pheobe, though, would graduate at the end of the school year. Once the Triwizard Tournament was over, Jerry intended to have a serious talk with her. If possible, he wanted her truly on his side. There was a task that suited her perfectly!
In the shifting light of the Entrance Hall, Karkaroff's gaze seemed to