Masquerade (Hermione x Female OC)

Chapter 3 - Confusion

Total Words - 1632

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*In the middle of the night*

The tranquility of sleep was abruptly shattered as a tumultuous commotion erupted outside the tents. Confusion and disorientation followed as the group stirred awake, their initial assumption that it was Irish fans celebrating their victory had quickly been dispelled as the elder Weasley's made their way out of their tents. Among the younger ones, Ginny still asleep and so was Ron. Hermione and Harry who had woken up made their way to the central table. "What's that all about?" Harry, still half awaken groaned. Hermione added logically, "Well the Irish celebration would not be uncalled for. I just wish they had spared us the night"

Fred's realisation hit like a punch to the gut, his heart sinking as he saw masked figures wreaking havoc—burning tents, causing chaos, and spreading fear. As the horrifying scene unfolded, their shock intensified. The mob's actions turned particularly sinister when they targeted an innocent Muggle man named Roberts and his family. They had previously met the sweet guy, they recalled. Horror gripped the group as they watched helplessly, their collective sense of safety shattered in an instant. The once-joyous atmosphere had given way to an unsettling darkness, a stark reminder that even in the magical world, malevolence could rear its head in the most unexpected and terrifying ways.

"Quick, wake up the younger ones and head for the woods! Those people are still quite a few meters away. Make haste" Arthur's urgent command sliced through the chaos. He turned to the older kids, entrusting them with the responsibility of leading the younger children to safety. Percy and Charlie wasted no time, entering the tents to wake the younger ones. The kids bombarded them with questions, their expressions a mix of fear and confusion. Amid the clamor, Ron's voice could be heard, his complaints punctuating the uncertainty of the situation. Yet, Percy's authoritative tone silenced the protests as he and Charlie took charge, issuing orders to follow them and escape the unfolding mayhem.

Meanwhile, Bill and Arthur sprang into action, their focus shifting from the revelry of the World Cup to the pressing need for protection. They quickly assessed the situation, checking on acquaintances and their host, Amos Diggory. In the midst of the turmoil, the urgency to ensure everyone's safety propelled their actions, as they navigated the chaos with a sense of purpose.

Amid the chaotic rush to escape the tented settlements, the group found themselves unintentionally split into two. As they followed the older boys, Ron, Harry, and Hermione became separated from Ginny, Charlie, and Percy. The mayhem and the multitude of people moving in different directions contributed to the disarray, causing them to lose sight of each other in the confusion. And so ia moment of quick decision, Charlie chose to prioritize the safety of his sister and the younger kids. He let Ginny run alongside Percy towards the woods, where they hoped to find refuge. "There are a few small shacks there in the woods. Look for them, Percy" said Charlie, his voice hoarse as he took it upon himself to search for the other kids, the trio.

As they dashed through the chaos, Hermione stumbled and fell, her moment of vulnerability evident. A reassuring hand reached out and gripped hers, and when she looked up, her gaze met René's resolute grey eyes.

Thump Thump

René, flanked by Blaise, was in the same frantic rush to escape the turmoil. Spotting Hermione, her expression mirrored the urgency and concern that everyone felt. The Slytherin girl wasted no time, her voice carrying a sense of immediacy. "Get out of here, quick!" Ron, ever the skeptic, couldn't resist questioning René's motives. Her hesitation was palpable, especially in the presence of Blaise.