Time passed quickly, and on February 14, the second task of the Triwizard Tournament arrived on schedule.
Early that morning, the shore of the Black Lake was already packed with people.
Temporary stands stretched from the shore to the distant hillside, filled with wizards from across England and the countries of Europe. Colorful scarves and flags snapped in the bitter wind, while the smells of hot Butterbeer and grilled sausages mingled with the crowd's excited chatter.
The competition was once again being projected through enormous crystal balls.
Ludo Bagman stood in the commentary box, his bright yellow robes especially conspicuous against the gray winter backdrop. His smile was even more radiant than it had been during the first task.
He pointed his wand at his throat. "Sonorus!"
Then his voice swept like thunder across the dark surface of the lake and reached the stands.
"Ladies and gentlemen!" His voice rang out over the entire lake. "Welcome to the second task of the Triwizard Tournament! Today, our champions will brave the depths of the Black Lake!"
Enthusiastic cheers erupted from the stands.
Bagman continued, "The rules are simple—something most precious to each champion has been hidden at a different location on the lakebed. The champions must find and rescue their hostages within three hours. The first to return will receive nine points, the second eight, and so on until the competition ends.
"The higher a school's score, the greater its advantage in the final task!
"One small note: every champion will receive guidance—though, of course, it will only indicate a general direction."
A buzz of discussion rose from the crowd as people whispered to one another.
"Since Beauxbatons and Durmstrang fell behind in the first task," Bagman raised his voice, "they will enter the water twenty minutes later in the second