Su Er was stunned.
He searched every word in his head without finding one that could describe Hermione as she looked now. The only exclamation that sprang to mind was a line from the ancient East-The girl next door has come of age.
Hermione's hair was no longer bushy, but smooth and glossy, resting softly against her pale periwinkle dress robes. On her head sat the small, exquisite crown Su Er had prepared for her, its colorless, transparent gemstone glimmering in the flickering, warm yellow light.
The periwinkle wizard robes gave Hermione's ivory skin a jade-like sheen, and the small stretch of calf showing beneath her skirt was whiter than frost or snow. With a faint smile, Hermione walked toward Su Er in the crowd.
The young witches and wizards blocking her way unconsciously stepped back, opening a path.
There was no telling how many people Hermione's appearance would dazzle, but at least for now, Su Er had eyes only for her.
He walked toward her.
She walked toward him, too.
"You look beautiful today," Su Er said sincerely. "I was worried this crown might not go with your dress robes."
"Thank you. I love it." Hermione gave him a small, toothy smile and reached out to straighten his bow tie, making it neater. "This bow tie goes quite well with your dress robes, too."
Su Er smiled and nodded, raising his arm slightly. Hermione slipped hers through it naturally, and together they walked toward Harry and the others in the crowd.
It was also Harry and the others' first time seeing Hermione formally dressed, and they naturally offered their compliments, which she answered one by one.
Just then, Professor McGonagall's voice rang out.
"Champions, over here, please."
The crowd, chattering away like birds, parted to let the Champions and