So, in the month leading up to the third task, they were either in the library researching magical creatures and spells, or practicing charms in their little potions hideaway. Even though their end-of-year exams were also scheduled for late June, Harry's tournament took priority—so much so that even Hermione hadn't mentioned revision. (As a Triwizard Champion, Harry was exempt from final exams.)
Thanks to Snape's guidance throughout the previous summer, Orli had actually become the most proficient at advanced combat spells among the four of them. Ron, however, couldn't avoid making some small sacrifices.
"Can't we kidnap Mrs. Norris or something else to practice on?" Ron suggested one Monday at lunchtime. He was sprawled on the floor, having just been stunned and revived by Harry five times in a row.
"I'm not complaining, Harry," he said, carefully getting to his feet and rubbing his back, "but I'm aching all over..."
"You keep missing the cushions!" Hermione snapped impatiently, tidying up the pile of mats. "You're supposed to fall backward onto them!"
"You can't aim that precisely when you're stunned, Hermione!" Ron retorted angrily. "Why don't you try it yourself?"
"Oh, I think Harry's got the Stunning Spell down pat by now—after all, Professor Moody had us practicing it ages ago," Hermione said hastily. "And there's no need to worry about the Disarming Charm; he's known that for years... I suppose tonight we should practice a few... well, if it'll help, a few hexes."
Ron looked as though Hermione had just asked him to walk to his death.
"Er... maybe we should switch things up..." Orli suggested with a helpless smile. "How about we head to the library and research what sort of 'little darlings' Hagrid might put in the maze? I bet it's not just creatures from the Forbidden Forest—maybe there are some imported ones like the dragons... for instance... how to get past a sphinx?"
"Brilliant idea!" Ron agreed instantly. It was the first time he'd ever been so enthusiastic about going to the library.
As June arrived, the atmosphere in the castle grew tense and excited once more. Everyone was anticipating the third task, scheduled for a week before the holidays. Whenever he had a spare moment, Harry was drilling spells; he seemed more confident than he had for the previous two tasks.
The four of them practiced dueling in the grounds or corridors whenever possible. Professor McGonagall not only refrained from deducting points but even offered Harry some pointers. By now, Harry had mastered several commonly used combat spells: the Impediment Jinx, Stunning Spell, Jelly-Legs Jinx, Blasting Curse, Shield Charm, and several others. Hermione had even discovered a Point Me spell in a book that would make Harry's wand point due north, allowing him to maintain his bearings in the maze.
"You're doing brilliantly," Hermione said encouragingly, checking items off her list as she watched him practice. "I'm sure some of these will prove useful."
"Maybe you lot should spend more time revising instead of staying here with me," Harry said, feeling somewhat guilty.
"Don't worry," Hermione replied dismissively. "At least we'll ace Defense Against the Dark Arts."
"It's excellent training for becoming Aurors later," Ron said excitedly, testing the Impediment Jinx on a wasp that had buzzed into the room, freezing it mid-flight.
Sirius was now sending daily letters by owl, equally concerned about Harry's third task. Perhaps Dumbledore had shared some information about the school situation with him, because he kept reminding Harry in every letter: never go anywhere alone, and don't get hurt under any circumstances.
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
The story isn't over...
🤔 Want to know what happens next to the characters?
🤫 Eager to explore the untold secrets of this world?
✍️ Ready to read more of my wildest stories?
✨patreon.com/DarkGolds