Harry x Hermione: It started early

chapter 36

Chapter 36: The Calm Before the Storm

The summer days passed in a gentle rhythm, and as autumn approached, Harry found himself back at Hogwarts for his fourth year. The castle welcomed students with its familiar warmth, but this year, there was an added layer of excitement. The Triwizard Tournament was announced, promising a year full of magical challenges and unforeseen twists.

Harry and Hermione, now in their fourth year, navigated the bustling hallways together. The incident at the Grangers' house seemed like a distant memory, replaced by the anticipation of the tournament. Their relationship had grown stronger over the summer, and the awkwardness of their first romantic encounter had evolved into a deeper connection.

In Defense Against the Dark Arts, Professor Moody, the new teacher, introduced the students to the Unforgivable Curses. The atmosphere in the classroom shifted, becoming more serious. Harry, Hermione, and their classmates listened attentively as Moody explained the gravity of these curses.

After the class, Harry and Hermione walked together to the Great Hall for lunch. The castle buzzed with chatter about the Triwizard Tournament, but beneath the excitement lingered an undercurrent of unease. The mention of dark curses had reminded everyone that the wizarding world was not entirely free from danger.

As the weeks passed, the tension escalated. The first task of the Triwizard Tournament approached, and Harry, along with the other champions, felt the weight of the upcoming challenges. Hermione, always a source of support, studied alongside Harry, helping him prepare for the unknown tasks that lay ahead.

One evening, as the trio sat by the common room's crackling fire, Hermione voiced her concerns. "Harry, I know you can handle whatever comes your way, but please promise me you'll be careful during the tournament. We don't know what kind of dangers you might face."

Harry nodded, appreciating Hermione's concern. "I promise, Hermione. I'll be careful. We've got each other's backs, right?"

Ron, who had been quiet until then, chimed in, "Of course, mate. We're in this together."

The first task arrived, and Harry faced a Hungarian Horntail, using his broomstick skills to navigate the challenges. The Gryffindor common room erupted in cheers as news of his success spread. Hermione, her eyes shining with pride, hugged Harry tightly, relieved that he had come through unscathed.

The weeks that followed were a whirlwind of magical creatures, mysterious challenges, and the Yule Ball. Harry and Hermione attended the ball together, dressed in elegant robes. The enchanted atmosphere of the Great Hall, adorned with floating candles and twinkling stars, cast a magical glow over the night.

Amid the festivities, Harry and Hermione found a quiet corner to share a dance. The soft melody enveloped them, and for a moment, the outside world faded away. Hermione rested her head on Harry's shoulder, and they swayed gently to the music.

As the fourth year drew to a close, Harry and Hermione faced the looming return of Lord Voldemort. The Dark Mark hung ominously in the sky, a stark reminder that their world was not immune to the shadows that threatened to engulf it.

The calm before the storm had ended. The challenges of the Triwizard Tournament had been met, but greater trials awaited as Harry and Hermione, bound by friendship and love, prepared to confront the gathering darkness that loomed on the horizon.

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