Just as a final showdown over who was "more cunning and treacherous" erupted deep within the maze, the bored-to-death spectators outside were chatting in low voices. Just like during the second task, all they could do was wait patiently outside for the results.
Being unable to see what was happening inside the maze greatly dampened the audience's enthusiasm for the final, since there was practically nothing to watch.
Isabelle and Nia sat patiently in the family section. Perhaps to mask her anxiety, Isabelle was grooming Tom. The fat cat, utterly unaware of anything, yawned carefree as he enjoyed the food Nia fed him.
At the judges' stand nearby, Dumbledore narrowed his eyes at the sky above the maze, though no one knew what he was thinking.
Just moments ago, green sparks had risen above the maze.
That was not a good omen.
"What's wrong?"
Amelia Bones noticed Dumbledore's reaction and asked curiously.
"There were green sparks," Dumbledore suddenly said.
"What's wrong with green sparks?" As an Auror, Scrimgeour was more perceptive than most in many respects.
"A distress signal uses red sparks." Dumbledore did not believe the champions would make such a basic mistake.
"Is there no signal that uses green sparks?" Scrimgeour asked with a frown.
"No." Dumbledore shook his head.
"What's wrong with green sparks?" Fudge found their conversation utterly baffling.
Just as everyone was waiting sleepily, a silver creature swept across the night sky. After circling gracefully above their heads, it landed near the podium.
"What is that?"
Whispers rose from the stands as the audience's attention was drawn to the silver Hippogriff.
"A Patronus?"
Amelia Bones studied the Patronus with interest. Just as she was about to ask about it, the Patronus suddenly opened its mouth and spoke in Albert's calm voice.
"I was attacked. Moody