The Raven's Call

The Third Task

Saturday, 24th of June 1995

Music from the Hogwarts school band blasts, the anticipation crackles in the air as I take my seat amidst the throngs of spectators, each buzzing with excitement and curiosity. The stadium looms large around me, a grand coliseum pulsating with energy. The stands are a sea of faces, a kaleidoscope of colours and expressions, all eagerly awaiting the spectacle about to unfold. Above, the sky stretches vast and clear, a perfect backdrop for the impending challenge. The air is crisp with a hint of anticipation, carrying the faint scent of freshly cut grass and the distant murmur of voices. Banners flutter in the breeze, each one representing a school, a symbol of pride and unity.

In the centre of the arena, the stage is set for the ultimate test of skill and bravery. Towering obstacles loom ominously, casting long shadows across the ground. The maze sprawls out before us, a labyrinth of twists and turns, shrouded in mystery and danger. Around me, the crowd erupts into cheers and applause as the competitors step onto the field, their faces set in determination. I can feel the tension building, a palpable electricity that crackles in the air. This is the moment we've all been waiting for, the climax of the Triwizard Tournament.

"Sonorus!"
Dumbledore's voice booms, causing the chatter and music to go mute, all gaining his attention. "Earlier today, Professor Moody placed the Triwizard Cup deep within the maze. Only he knows its exact position. Now, as Mr. Diggory-"
 His fans erupt into cheers, with me being the loudest as I cheer for my big brother, Amos at his side.
"...and Mr. Potter..."
The Gryffindors erupt next.
"...are tied for first position... They will be the first to enter the maze, followed by Mr. Krum..."
The Slytherins and Durmstrang students are the next to cheer.
"And Miss Delacour."
The Beauxbatons are the last to erupt.
"The first person to touch the cup will be the winner!"
Dumbledore finished, the entirety of the stands now cheers in excitement.
"I've instructed the staff to patrol the perimeter. Should, at any point, a contestant wish to withdraw from the task, he or she need only send up red sparks with their wands."
He announces before turning to the contestants as they gather around. He seems to be giving a pep talk, though we can't hear a word. Four entrances open up as the champions take their marks. The crowd roars in cheers once again as I see Amos hug Cedric. Ced turns to give me a smile and a wave as the cannon shoots, announcing their start. The music begins to set them off on their journey. As each champion enters the maze, the opening then closes behind them.

Now all there is to do, is wait. I find Alex and Eleanor in the crowd and take a seat beside them.
"Bonjour Atti!"
Eleanor greets me with a smile. 

"Bonjour Eleanor. Sup Alex."
The three of us chat for a while, catching up, until red sparks are sent from inside the maze. A few teachers return with Fleur a few minutes later. Poor thing didn't really have a good time during this tournament. Eleanor quickly runs down with the rest of the Beauxbatons to praise Fleur, making sure she's okay.

Not too long after, Krum is returned to the main area too, all there's left is Cedric and Harry. I hope they're okay. As I watch the two returned champions, they both seem pretty out of it, like they don't remember giving up. That's strange, but we were told a lot of strange things happen in the maze.. maybe this was one of those things? 

I take a look around, though I can't seem to spot a particular student in the crowd.
"Where's Asteria?"
I ask, nudging Alex's arm. 

"Huh- wot?"
He mutters, I seem to have just woken him up. 

I chuckle softly, shaking my head.
"Never mind."
I smile, looking around again. Spotting the Weasley twins, I call out.

"Oi, Ginge!"
The two snap their heads in my direction.
"Where's Claws?"
I ask.

They both shrug, though George looks more distraught. I turn my head behind me, spotting Draco, Goyle, and Crabbe, who has KRUM written on his forehead.
"Oi, Malfoy!"
I call again. 

Draco scowls at me.
"What?" 

"Where's Astra?"
I ask him. 

"She had to go home, father's orders."
He responds, all matter-of-factly. 

"Right."
 I say with a sigh, catching George's eyes, looking worse than he already did just a moment ago.

Well, what the heck do we do while waiting? A few kids started to play Gobstones while some others played some exploding snap. Some even summoning wizard chess sets to play to pass the time. I resort to reading on some studies for next year, get in some knowledge early.  

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