Chapter 18: "The First Challenge"

The Triwizard Tournament arena looked like something between a battlefield and a magical proving ground. Towering stone structures rose like ancient sentinels, magical wards shimmering with protective enchantments.

Heather stood among the champions, her pink glasses reflecting the complex magical calculations running through her mind. The emotional vulnerability from Rita Skeeter's attack still lingered, but Severus and Regulus's unwavering support created a protective magical barrier around her heart.

Suddenly, a familiar magical presence approached. James Potter, her brother, walked toward her with an expression of genuine vulnerability.

"Hey," he said softly, "can we talk?"

The arena fell silent. Their complicated sibling history was well-known among magical circles.

James looked different. Humbled. Gone was the swagger that had defined their previous interactions. "I want to support you," he said. "I know I haven't been... the best brother."

Severus's hand tightened around Heather's, his dark eyes watching James with intense scrutiny. Regulus stood equally alert, their protective magic creating a subtle magical shield around her.

"I heard what Rita did," James continued. "What she said about you. And I realized I've been no better. Criticizing you, comparing you, making you feel less than." His voice cracked. "I'm sorry."

Heather adjusted her glasses, her mathematical mind processing this unexpected emotional input. After a moment of calculation, she spoke.

"Support," she said precisely, "would be appreciated."

When James awkwardly opened his arms, expecting perhaps a handshake, Heather surprised everyone.

She hugged him.

It wasn't a soft, gentle hug. It was a mathematical, precise Potter sibling hug - calculated, yet genuine. Her arms wrapped around James with a vulnerability she rarely showed.

"One condition," she whispered. "No more comparisons."

James nodded, his own eyes suspiciously wet.

Nearby, Lily Evans - James's girlfriend - watched the sibling reconciliation with a mixture of hope and compassion. Her eyes met Heather's, offering silent support.

Dorea Potter's eyes glistened with tears. Charlus squeezed her hand, both parents watching their children's tentative reconciliation.

Severus leaned close to Regulus. "This changes nothing," he whispered. "We remain her primary protection."

Regulus nodded imperceptibly. "Agreed."

Tom Riddle watched from the shadows, fascinated by this complex familial dynamic.

James awkwardly moved closer. "So... good luck?"

"Statistical probability of success," Heather responded, "increases 37% with familial support."

A hint of their old sibling rapport flickered - brief, but present.

Dumbledore's voice echoed across the arena. "Champions, your first challenge awaits."

The magical arena began to shift. Something extraordinary was about to begin - both in the tournament, and in their sibling relationship.