"Well, social mores were made to be broken, after all." Harry grinned. Plotting the downfall of backwards societies was so much fun!
"Yes, they were. According to the Provisions of 1720, champions: 'possess complete and total immunity from any and all that would interfere with their preparations for such trying and difficult tasks. Such champions as selected also possess sovereign right to self defense and protection from any who would harm them. Champions are accorded the privilege of preemptive strike without recourse during their tournament year, not to exceed the conclusion of the competition.' Now, the organizers eluded to this rule by exempting champions from tests and such; but taken to its logical extreme…"
"Wait… They couldn't mean… There's no way that'd be legal!"
"Yes, it's legal. They never took that one out, and evidently never considered the ramifications of such a blanket rule."
"Rule? It sounds like a hunting license! You're saying I could walk up to Malfoy and hex him right between the eyes, and there's nothing he can do?"
"Well, you can't 'kill or permanently harm' him. But to answer your question: absolutely you can. Any response on his part would require a disciplinary response. Whether you should or not is another basket of kneazles. Your target just has to be considered a legitimate threat."
Harry was rarely overtaken by feelings of pure joy.