The second fierce showdown of the Triwizard Tournament was set in the Black Lake. All four champions had made their respective preparations based on the golden egg clues obtained in the previous round. Krum's face was written with focus and determination as he stood confidently by the shore; he had been practicing swimming in the Black Lake all these days. Fleur, on the other hand, appeared somewhat anxious. Early that morning, she had discovered that her younger sister, Gabby, had mysteriously vanished. Perhaps the "precious treasure" mentioned in the tournament rules was indeed the sister she needed to rescue from the bottom of the lake.
Over on the Hogwarts side, Cedric maintained his usual composure and calm, but a bit more determination and seriousness flashed in his eyes. Having experienced setbacks in the previous round, he had been reflecting on himself while doubling his efforts to practice charms. Harry stood quietly by the lake, taking a deep breath. He had learned from Neville about a magical gillyweed that was said to grow gills and fins for breathing underwater, and he was gripping it tightly in his hand right now.
At the sound of the judges' whistle, the four champions leaped into the Black Lake one after another, casting their respective charms and swiftly heading toward the deep bottom of the lake. In a corner of the shore, Snape stood with his arms crossed, his eternally enigmatic face quietly watching the commotion on the lake's surface. The young wizards…
Chapter 183