Title: Masquerade

Rating: PG-13

Author: Silvermoon

Comments: A short little fanfic, very nice don't you think?

Summary: Hogwarts is holding its first masquerade in over twenty years, and some unexpected romance happens when faces are hidden. See what happens when the masks come off.

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Chapter One: The Announcement

Everyone in the Great Hall quieted when Professor Dumbledore stood up. Normally, this would not of happened, and he would have to tap his glass several times to get everyone's attention. However, rumors had been flying around the school all week of a very special announcement. The students eagerly stuck their heads up in attention.

"This year, we are going to do something that Hogwarts has not done in a long time. We are going to hold a masquerade. It-" Dumbledore was cut off by the loud chattering that erupted at his statement. Girls were squealing, and some boys were rubbing their temples. At the Gryffindor table, Hermione immediately started talking.

"Wow! A masquerade! Hogwarts hasn't had one in over 70 years! It was in Chapter Fifty Five of Hogwarts, a History" announced Hermione.

Ron did his usual eye rolling at the mention of Hermione's sacred book. Hermione ignored this, and kept on rambling on about masquerades and their history. The crowd of students died down again to let Professor Dumbledore finish talking.

"We will be having the masquerade right before Christmas Holidays begin. Everyone is required to wear a mask to hide his or her identity. Teachers are included. A-"

The crowd started to titter again, fueled by the thought of the professors wearing a mask, especially Professor Snape. Three Professors had to stand up and tap their empty glasses repeatedly before the Hall quieted.

"Another thing, this masquerade is for students fourth year and up. Third years and younger will stay in their dorms for the night." The trio smiled, for they were in their sixth year.

"What I'm thinking about now is the mask I'm going to choose." announced Ron. He stuck a large piece of sausage in his mouth after saying this, and looked up at the ceiling, deep in thought.

"I think I'll wear a lion mask," thought Harry out loud, "No, scratch that. A lion would give a huge hint to who I am."

"My mask will be a traditional one. Its oval, with decorations around the holes that are provided for the eyes, nose, and mouth. My mother gave it to me a long time ago. Its been hanging on my wall for years." said Hermione.

Ron looked down from the ceiling, "I'm going to wear a blue one. With something to hide this red hair of mine." he said Ron.

"I don't blame you," said a mocking voice from behind them. The threesome turned, and saw Draco Malfoy with his cronies, Crabbe and Goyle at the Slytherin table.

"I wouldn't want anyone to see that shockingly ugly red hair." spat Draco.

Ron balled up his fists, "Sod off Malfoy, you spoiled rotten prat," He turned around, and started to sip some pumpkin juice. Malfoy opened up his mouth to rebut, but Ron hushed him by waving a one-fingered gesture in the air.

"Some masks have a back to them. You could also charm your hair, or wear a hooded cloak." stated Hermione, starting where they left off, "You could also just change the style of your hair."

These new ideas intrigued Ron. He looked up at the ceiling again, deep in thought. "Do we have to wear dress robes?" asked Ron, not looking up from the ceiling.
"Unfortunately for you, yes. This is one of those special occasions where dress robes are appropriate." said Hermione. Ron didn't answer, but from the sour look on his face, his friends could tell that he didn't like the idea of wearing his blue robes, even if they were new and lace-free.
The rest of the dinner went by quickly. By the time it was over, Ron was still pondering. When everyone got up to go, he said a little too loudly, "Brown hair! Spiked! Green mask!"

Everyone that hadn't left the Great Hall yet heard Ron, and looked at him, puzzled. He smiled sheepishly, and ran to catch up with Harry and Hermione, who were almost out of the Hall.

"Why did you leave me there? And when is this masquerade?" asked Ron.

"A week from now. Dumbledore announced that why you were marveling at the ceiling. That's the reason why we left you there." answered Hermione.

Ron shot her daggers, then went on to talk to Harry about a new Quidditch move he had heard about. Hermione headed towards the Gryffindor Common Room. Preparations were already flowing freely in her head..