Shadows of the Triwizard | Fourth Year

| Chapter 4: The First Task

The day of the first task arrived with an air of anticipation and tension. The entire school buzzed with excitement, and the grounds were filled with students from all houses, eagerly awaiting the spectacle. Harry stood in the champions' tent, his heart racing as he tried to focus on the task ahead.

Professor McGonagall entered the tent, her stern demeanor softened by a hint of concern as she addressed the champions. "The first task is designed to test your courage and resourcefulness. You will each face a different dragon and retrieve a golden egg it guards. Remember, use your wits and your magic wisely. Good luck."

Harry's stomach churned with nerves as he drew the Hungarian Horntail, one of the most dangerous dragons. He could feel the weight of the challenge pressing down on him, but he reminded himself of the training and preparation he had undergone with Draco's help.

As the other champions faced their dragons, Harry waited anxiously, trying to calm his racing thoughts. Finally, it was his turn. He stepped out into the arena, greeted by the roar of the crowd and the sight of the massive, fire-breathing dragon.

The Hungarian Horntail's eyes glinted with menace as it spotted Harry, its scales shimmering in the sunlight. Harry took a deep breath, drawing his wand. He needed to stay focused and remember his plan.

"Accio Firebolt!" he shouted, summoning his broom. As the broom zoomed towards him, Harry leapt onto it and soared into the air, narrowly dodging a burst of flame from the dragon. He circled the arena, keeping the dragon's attention on him while looking for an opening.

The dragon's tail lashed out, nearly catching him off guard. Harry swerved, feeling the heat of the flames singeing his robes. He had to be quick and precise. Spotting the golden egg nestled among the dragon's treasures, he dove toward it.

The Hungarian Horntail roared, unleashing another torrent of fire. Harry zigzagged through the air, avoiding the flames by a hair's breadth. With a final burst of speed, he swooped down, snatching the golden egg and pulling up just in time to avoid the dragon's snapping jaws.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Harry landed safely, clutching the golden egg. The dragon handlers quickly moved in to subdue the Horntail, and Harry felt a surge of relief and triumph. He had done it.

As he exited the arena, he was greeted by the other champions, who congratulated him on his performance. Cedric Diggory clapped him on the back, smiling. "Well done, Harry. That was impressive."

Fleur Delacour and Viktor Krum nodded in agreement, their expressions respectful. Harry felt a sense of camaraderie with them, despite the competition.

Returning to the Slytherin common room later that evening, Harry was met with a mix of reactions. Some Slytherins congratulated him, while others seemed less enthusiastic. Draco, however, stood out, a proud smile on his face.

"You did it, Potter," Draco said, his tone genuine. "That was incredible."

Harry grinned, feeling a warmth spread through him at Draco's praise. "Couldn't have done it without your help, Malfoy."

Draco shrugged, a playful glint in his eyes. "Just remember that when you're famous for winning the Triwizard Tournament."

As the days passed, Harry and Draco's friendship continued to grow. They spent more time together, studying, training, and even sharing their hopes and fears. The bond between them deepened, fueled by mutual respect and a surprising sense of kinship.

One evening, as they sat by the fireplace in the Slytherin common room, Draco turned to Harry, his expression serious. "Potter, I've been thinking. If we're going to get through this tournament, we need to trust each other completely. No secrets, no holding back."

Harry nodded, understanding the gravity of Draco's words. "Agreed. We're in this together."

Draco's gaze softened, and for a moment, Harry saw a vulnerability in his eyes that he hadn't noticed before. "I mean it, Harry. No matter what happens, we've got each other's backs."

Harry felt a surge of loyalty and determination. "I promise, Draco."

As they shook hands, sealing their pact, Harry couldn't help but wonder what challenges lay ahead and how their newfound friendship would withstand the trials of the tournament.

But one thing was certain: together, they were stronger. And as the tournament continued, they would need that strength more than ever.