Changes

𝟎𝟏𝟎

"Bets! Bets! Place your bets!" The twins' voices echoed through the snowy field, their words cutting through the chill air. We were all sat down in rows, everyone shivering in heavy winter coats, huddled together, breaths misting in the cold as they excitedly talked amongst themselves, preparing for the entertainment they were promised.

The second challenge of the Triwizard Tournament was taking place at the infamous Black Lake. The walk from the castle to the Black Lake had taken its toll on my legs, and they ached with each step.

The trail was a horrible one, covering a distance of around a mile and a half, the cold winter air seemed to seep into every muscle and joint. Despite the constant yawning and physical discomfort, especially my bottom and my favourite pair of jeans on this damp wood, the thrill of the upcoming challenge kept me going.

I smiled faintly as I watched Blaise take a seat beside me. "Hey," he greeted me in a low voice, barely loud enough for me to hear over the chatter of students around us. I turned my head to look at him, curiosity sparkling in my eyes. "What's that smirk for?" I asked, raising an eyebrow at him. Blaise hung his mouth open slightly, placing a hand over his chest as if offended by my question. "Can't a bloke just smile for no reason these days?" He responded, still holding that sly grin.

I roll my eyes, "not when that 'bloke' is you" I say before looking ahead at the lake. "Alright, fine. You know me too well," he admitted, his smirk widening. "I do have a reason for the smirk, and it's a good one, I promise." He grins. I let out a steam of cold fog as I exhale, "spit it out then."

He glanced around cautiously before leaning in closer to me, ensuring nobody was eavesdropping on our conversation, "So apparently, the second challenge is going to involve retrieving something from the bottom of the Black Lake," Blaise said in a low whisper. "And it's going to be a lot harder than the first task, I heard a sixth year talking about some type of creature that lives in those waters."

The black lake is known to be a dangerous place filled with all sorts of nasty creatures and mythical beings, so it's no surprise to me that it was going to be dangerous. I knew lives were at stake the second Dumbledore told us where we would be going. But the thought of having to dive into those murky waters to retrieve something from the depths was far from comforting.

"I should probably go sit up there with Draco, Crabbe and Goyle now," he said casually, nodding towards the three boys who were sitting near the top row. Blaise stood up and dusted snow off of his trousers, looking back at me and standing still for a second or two. "Hey, come on, you should come sit up top with us. You're going to have a far better view up there," he said.

I took one look at Draco and immediately shook my head, "no thanks, I'm good down here," I excused myself. Blaise chuckled at my reluctance and nodded, understanding my decision. "Suit yourself," he replied with a shrug. "Don't say I didn't offer, though."

All conversations came to a halt as the four champions made their way to the edge of the Blake Lake. The air was thick with anticipation as we all waited anxiously for the second challenge to begin.

Each of the champions looked determined and uneasy as they prepared themself for the challenge that lay ahead. Fleur's delicate features were slightly pinched with worry, while Cedric's usually calm demeanour betrayed a hint of concern. Viktor Krum's expression was stoic, his sharp eyes scanned the water, likely assessing the task that was coming his way.

And then there was Harry, who looked straight up terrified.

Professor Dumbledore stepped forward, his voice magnified so that every student could hear him clearly. "Attention please," he called out, quieting the rest of the students. "The second challenge of the Triwizard Tournament will now commence."