Chapter 22 : The Attack

                                    

                                          
In the heart of winter, Hogwarts Castle stood tall and serene, wrapped in a blanket of snow that glittered under the pale January sun. The crisp, cold air outside left frosty breaths hanging in the air like little clouds. But inside the castle's stone walls, it was a world of warmth and cheer, a cozy contrast to the wintry chill outside.
The Great Hall twinkled with fairy lights, and the common rooms were bathed in the golden glow of crackling fires. Everywhere you looked, students bustled about, their laughter and chatter filling the air as they embraced the magic of winter at Hogwarts. And with the second task quickly approaching, excitement and tension among the students were at an all-time high.
Along with that, now the most admired couple at Hogwarts were Harry and Hermione. Their bond was undeniable, visible to anyone who saw them. They were practically inseparable, moving through the castle's corridors and common areas with a natural ease that showed just how connected they were. Draco's playful remark from years ago, back when Harry was in Russia, had been absolutely right, Harry was practically glued to Hermione's side, and she to his.
Yet, despite the obviousness of their love for each other, a few still refused to see it. Two of those people were Victor Krum and Georgette Delacour. Their presence had caused quite a stir at Hogwarts, given the man's role in the Triwizard Tournament and Georgette's allure as a veela. As the end of January approached, Hogwarts was abuzz with anticipation. The second task of the Triwizard Tournament was just around the corner, scheduled for February 24th. Students could hardly contain their excitement and speculation about what this task would entail. The corridors and common rooms were alive with animated conversations and wild theories. The castle itself seemed to hum with the energy of the upcoming challenge, adding to the fervor that had taken hold of the student body.
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A week before the second task of the Triwizard Tournament, excitement was steadily building in Hogwarts. But on this particular Friday evening, Harry, Hermione, Ron, and Neville found themselves in the cozy warmth of the Gryffindor common room. After a mind-blowing dinner in the Great Hall, where food had been plentiful and the conversation lively, they had returned to their usual spot by the fireplace, successfully ignoring the looks sent by Viktor and Georgette.
Hermione, deeply engrossed in a book about latest Muggle technology, sat curled up in a double seated couch. Meanwhile, Harry, Ron, and Neville were huddled together, chatting animatedly about Quidditch strategies, broomsticks, and their other usual banters. The fire crackled in the background, its warmth adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Just as Harry was about to make a point about Chudley Cannons' hopeless defense, he felt a sudden burning sensation in his pocket. "What the-?" He fished out his small magical mirror, recognizing the face staring back at him instantly.
It was Sirius, his godfather....dad, grinning with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Harry raised an eyebrow and held up the mirror, while sitting next to Hermione and pulling her to himself. "It's Sirius," he said casually, already preparing himself for what he knew would be a series of jabs.
Sirius wasted no time. "Merlin's pants, Harry. You're glued to Hermione like she's a bloody magnet and you...an iron nail!" His grin widened, clearly amused. "Tell me, son, do you even take bathroom breaks, or are you on a leash at all times?"
Harry groaned, though a smile played on his lips. "Good to see you too, Dad. Great way to start a conversation padfoot."
Ron, who had been half-listening, nearly choked on laughter, while Neville smirked from behind his mug of hot chocolate. Hermione, completely unfazed, looked up from her book with a slight smile. "I'll have you know about his breaks, Sirius, but I must say....that Harry is quite well-behaved. I only have to tug on his leash occasionally," she added dryly with a shrug, her eyes shining with amusement.