Disclaimer: I own nothing, and am making no profit.

Acknowledgments: Onichun for the beta work on this chapter.

Chapter 11

Yuletide

Break came quickly, which Harry was glad for. Still, he made no further headway on the dating front. He would have been more worried, but a few Gryffindor girls had offered to go with him if he couldn't find a date. Harry didn't really want to accept any of those offers, but if he had to he would.

He'd asked one other girl. She was a Ravenclaw and had been suggested to him by Cho. She'd been, well, strange to say the least. She'd told him that she appreciated the offer, but she was vacationing over the holiday with her father instead. Harry couldn't help but think she was probably one of the only students actually going home for the winter holiday.

Still, she was pretty, in a young and innocent sort of way. But she was slightly unusual. He hadn't been able to tell if she was making up most of the things she said. But he wasn't going to worry about it more than that.

He was on his way to watch the Beauxbatons against Durmstrang match that highlighted the start of break. He, Roger, and Lilly had planned to observe it from a coach's perspective, to learn everything they could about both opponents in preparation for their match against Beauxbatons at the end of February. The rest of the team was getting a well deserved day off.

Of course, Harry expected that just about all of them would be watching the game. But they would simply choose to do it with long neglected friends and girlfriends.

He was walking quickly toward the pitch, as bundled up as he could stand to be, knowing it was incredibly cold outside. He was about to wrap a scarf around his neck when he heard his name called.

"Hey Potter!" he turned to see Titus Button standing by a few Slytherins. Harry walked over toward them.

"What's up, Titus?" He asked. He noticed that a few of the Slytherins weren't giving him the nicest of looks. Titus had his arm around Tracey Davis's shoulder. Harry couldn't help but notice that her expression indicated that she wanted absolutely no part of him.

"Roger wanted you to meet him and Lilly outside the locker room," Titus said. Harry looked at Titus for a moment. He already knew that. He and Roger had discussed that earlier. He knew that Titus had to be going for something else.

"Yea, I know," Harry said dumbly. "I was heading there now."

"Oh. Okay. That's good," Titus responded with a goofy smile on his face. Harry raised an eyebrow and stared at the beater.

"Yea. I take it you're heading out to the game?" Harry asked. It wasn't that telling of an observation as they were all heavily dressed and one of the girls filled out a woman's Krum jersey rather nicely.

"Yea. Heading out there now. Walk with us for a bit?" Titus asked, turning himself and Tracey toward the entrance hall. Harry shrugged. He noticed that a few of the Slytherins with Titus didn't seem to think that was such a great idea. Harry didn't really find it to be all that great of an idea, either. But they were going in the same direction.

"Sure," he said, falling in step between Titus and the girl in the Krum jersey. They walked down the hallway in near silence. Harry could sense that the Slytherin students were only tolerating his presence because Titus had invited him. Still, he had to admit, it was strange. A year ago, even under an invitation, Harry wouldn't have gone near a pack of Slytherin students for fear of his own personal safety.

But he knew Titus. He'd grown to like him in the last few months. Of course, he didn't see Titus as a Slytherin anymore, but rather a teammate. Really, the same could be said about every member of the team. He knew Titus was rather laid back and focused. And, despite not being a starter, he knew Titus wanted Hogwarts to win the tournament as much as anyone else on the team. And as such, he certainly wouldn't let anything happen to the star seeker.

Of course, the team had played perfectly well without him in the first match, so perhaps he gave himself far too much credit. But he had flown toe-to-toe with Krum, and that had to count for something.

"So Harry?" Titus asked, knocking Harry out of his daydream. "Did you ever find yourself a date for the ball?"

"No. I haven't agreed with anyone yet. Some older Hufflepuffs and Gryffindors asked me, but I think they simply want a date with a champion."

"And there's something wrong with that?" Titus laughed.

"I guess not," Harry admitted with a shrug. "But you know, being used always feels strange." The girl next to him scoffed. Harry turned to look at her, but was distracted by Titus speaking.

"Yes there's that. In fact, Daphne here found herself in a similar conundrum. Wasn't it, Daphne?" Titus asked. The girl next to him glared at the elder Slytherin.

"We don't need to talk about that, Titus," she said coldly.

"Oh come now," Titus laughed. "You were just bitching about it a few minutes ago. What's the difference now?"

"We don't need to involve a Gryffindor in Slytherin arguments," Daphne said, rather sternly.

"I don't see a Gryffindor here," Titus responded. "I see a bunch of Slytherins and a school champion."

"A Gryffindor school champion," one of the other Slytherins said.

"If you insist," Titus shrugged. "But Daphne here is wearing more red than he is."

"It's a different red," Daphne spat.

"Red is red. Anyway, why don't we see if Harry here can provide some insight into your problem," Button asked.

"Slytherins take care of their own problems." Another of the students said, rather sternly.

"Yes, but we've failed rather spectacularly at that. All we've done is divide our already divided house. Perhaps we should look for a slightly less biased opinion?" Button asked. Harry wondered what the issue could be.

"He's not unbiased. He hates Malfoy," another student said. It dawned on him just what the issue could possibly be then.

"Fine. Maybe Potter can help. Maybe he won't just laugh at us." Daphne crossed her arms as she spoke. They were in the entrance hall, heading outside and toward the pitch. "You see, Potter. Darco is rather insistent that his cronies have dates. Millicent agreed to go with Vincent and Draco wants me to go with Gregory," Daphne said.

"And you don't want to go with Goyle, I take it?" Harry asked. Not quite seeing what the problem was.

"No. I don't. But Draco has seen to it that no one else asks me, leaving Goyle my only option if I wish to have a date for the ball."

"No one else will ask you?" Harry asked.

"No one else has," Daphne responded. "I've been waiting a few weeks. Only a few people in Slytherin will even talk to me. Our house is more inclusive than the other three, in case you haven't noticed. Ever since his father bought those brooms Draco has had rather exalted status."

"Well, there's an easy solution to all of this," Harry said.

"Oh and what's that?" Daphne spat. "Just don't go? That's what the rest of the house said. Except Titus over there who said I should go and ask just about anyone else out of pure spite." Titus made a noise Harry could only assume was agreement while continuing his conversation with the other Slytherin students.

"I guess that's a possible solution," Harry said. "But it wasn't the one I was going for."

"Oh, and what one were you going for, Potter?" she asked.

"Well, Daphne. If you really wanted to anger Malfoy-"

"I don't want to anger Malfoy. I just don't want to go to the ball with Goyle. I thought that was obvious."

"Well, regardless. If you don't want to go to the dance with Goyle, then go with me," he said. She looked at him, and then started to laugh. It was certainly the most unique reaction he'd seen.

"What?" she asked, fighting back laughter. "You want to go to the ball with me?"

"Sure, why not?" Harry responded.

"Because we don't like each other?" She stated.

"Oh please, we don't know each other well enough to know if we like each other or not," Harry commented. He thought it was a clever sentence at least.

"So you want to go to the ball with me?" Daphne asked again. She looked rather startled by the entire thing.

"Yes, we've been over this," Harry responded dryly.

"Why me though?" she asked.

"Well, you're pretty. I don't know you that well so it would be interesting. And as a Gryffindor I would be completely shunned if I didn't attempt to disrupt Malfoy's plans," Harry admitted. He noticed Daphne blushed slightly when he called her pretty. "Oh and my friends say I have this uncontrollable urge to help people."

"So you're just using me to annoy Draco and because you feel sorry for me?" she asked angrily.

"Not really," Harry admitted. "I need a date. Frankly, you're a better option than most of the girls who have asked me of late. So we'd be using each other. If I'm not being too arrogant here, I would like to at least think I'm a better choice than Goyle." Daphne paused and sized him up.

"Can you even dance?" she asked rather snottily.

"I'm learning," Harry responded. "And I think I'm competent now."

"Well fine, ask me again, more formally," Daphne commanded. Harry raised an eyebrow and looked over at her.

"Will you, Daphne Greengrass, attend the Yule Ball with me this coming Christmas night?" he asked, trying to sound as formal as he could.

"I'll think about it," Daphne said. Harry opened his mouth to comment, and then closed it, staring at her for a moment before actually formulating his next sentence.

"But you just said," he stammered, feeling slightly annoyed now.

"I told you to ask me formally," Daphne responded. "I gave no indication that my answer would change." The exited out toward the grounds then. Harry pulled his cloak tighter around him.

"Shit it's colder than I thought," Button said. Harry had momentarily forgotten he was walking with a group of Slytherins.

"Yes. I'm going to freeze in this," Daphne scoffed. "Thanks for the accurate weather report, Titus. I thought you said you were out earlier."

"I was," Titus laughed, pulling his own cloak tighter around him. "It got colder."

"Here, take this," Harry said, pulling off his cloak and scarf and offering them to Daphne. She looked rather surprised.

"You'll freeze then," she said.

"Nah. I have an extra in the locker room. It's lighter, but I'll be fine," he explained. She didn't take much more convincing as she threw his cloak around her shoulder and started wrapping the scarf around her neck.

"Okay. Thanks, Harry," she responded awkwardly.

"No problem. I have to go though, locker room is over here," he said, walking toward that path while the Slytherins continued toward the pitch. He'd only taken a few steps when she called after him.

"Wait, Potter!" Daphne shouted over the icy wind.

"Yea?" Harry turned to look at her.

"I'll do it. I'll go with you. Meet me in the entrance hall before the ball," she said. Harry smiled a bit at her.

"Alright. I'll do that. I look forward to it, Daphne." He turned and walked toward the locker room before he could see her reaction. It was cold, after all, and he really wanted his spare cloak.

He barely found Roger and Lilly before the match started. They'd obviously decided to not wait for him outside of the lock room. He'd missed the player introductions while he searched for them.

"Where were you?" Roger asked as Harry walked up next to his two teammates.

"Getting myself a date for the ball," Harry said.

"And how'd that go?" Roger laughed as the players started to line up for the game.

"Splendidly," Harry said. "Except I had to bribe her with my cloak and scarf, so I went to the locker room to grab another one."

"Good. I don't need you getting pneumonia on me, or something absurd." Roger teased.

"Who are you going with?" Lilly asked.

"Daphne Greengrass," Harry responded.

"A Slytherin and a Gryffindor? That sounds like a bad romance novel," Lilly laughed.

"Yea, a bit. But she got out of her date with Goyle by going with me," Harry said.

"Well, you're certainly better looking," Lilly commented.

"Less talking, more watching," Roger said as the match commenced. Harry watched the red robed chasers quickly take the quaffle, go right down the pitch, and score easily. Harry blinked.

"That certainly looked easy," he commented.

"Yes, it did," Roger responded. One of the Durmstrang chasers stole the quaffle on the inbound from Beauxbatons and put it right through the hoops again. "And so did that."

"Yes, are these the same chasers we outplayed?" Lilly asked.

"Yea, they are," Roger responded. "They've been practicing rather hard though. Wonder how much they've improved?"

"Well either we're exceptionally good, or they improved a lot," Harry commented as Durmstrang scored again. "Who's Beauxbaton's keeper?"

"Bloke named Bourdais, one of their duelers, I believe." Roger commented.

"His positioning isn't horrible. They're just not doing anything in front of him," Harry commented.

"They certainly aren't. But they're doing fairly well now. They've kept it in the Durmstrang zone for a while," Lilly commented.

"All passing though. They haven't even tried to get a shot off," Roger said.

"Yea. And Durmstrang is using the same defense they tried against us. It appears to be working here, though," Lilly said.

"At least better than it did against us," Roger commented.

"Yea. The Beauxbatons seems to be stalling," Harry said.

"I'd agree. Not sure what the merit to that strategy is when you're losing. I doubt that they expect their seeker to beat Krum," Roger said.

"Probably not. It certainly doesn't help that she's just trailing him like Lynch did during the World Cup," Harry responded.

"Yea. I bet that ends pretty poorly," Lilly commented. "Durmstrang really needs to get their beaters involved. They're not even attempting to pressure the Beauxbaton's chasers right now."

"Yea, but the Beauxbaton's chasers aren't even attempting to score right now, so I'm not convinced that the Durmstrang team really cares," Roger comented.

"Maybe not," Harry said. "But it could be a strategy. Lull them for a bit and then drive the hoops." It turned out that may have been the Beauxbaton's teams plan. As nearly as soon as Harry said that, the French chasers pulled a quick passing move that left Kubica well out of position and scored their first points of the game.

"Good call, Harry," Roger said. "Let's see if they can play anything resembling defense now." Turned out, they couldn't. The Durmstrang team went right down the pitch on the inbound and scored again.

"Guess not," Lilly commented. Beauxbaton's looked rather rattled. They went to inbound the quaffle and once again Durmstrang stole it easily and scored. The Beauxbatons team was visibly shaken then. They took their only time out and circled toward their coach.

"This match is over," Roger said.

"It's still very early," Harry commented.

"Yes, it is. But they're completely outclassed and shaken. They'll be better when they play us, I would imagine. But for now, they're out matched. The only question is how long will it take for Krum to find the snitch." Roger sighed.

"Still, we may as well scout them the best we can," Lilly responded.

"That's what we're here for," Roger agreed. Harry simply kept watching as the teams resumed play. Beauxbatons managed an inbound pass without losing possession. They slowly moved down the pitch. Durmstrang didn't particularly challenge them.

Harry could tell that the Durmstrang team simply felt the match was over as well. They knew they were better than the Beauxbatons contingent and had decided to not show anything for the rest of the match.

"Yea, they're just using basic defenses now," Lilly commented.

"And I'm sure their offenses won't be any better for the rest of the match," Roger added. Harry watched in silence as the Beauxbaton's team managed another shot. Kubica saved it and tossed it to Petrov.

"You're right, attack patterns don't get more basic than that," Lilly commented as the Durmstrang team moved down the pitch. Harry watched as the Durmstrang chasers quickly out positioned the Beauxbatons ones. Petrov had a very nice chance for a goal, but it was batted away by Bourdais.

Roger and Lilly kept talking, but Harry paid them little heed. They'd all come to the same conclusion. Barring a miracle on the part of the Beauxbatons seeker, the match was over. Harry figured he could better spend his time scouting his direct opposition.

"Who is the Beauxbaton's seeker?" He asked when he noticed that

"Sophie Sinclair, the duelist," Roger said. Harry nodded a little bit. He vaguely remembered thinking she had a seeker's build. Apparently he'd been correct. He found her in the sky easily enough. But after watching her for just a few minutes he could tell he wouldn't learn much about her style. She was simply following Krum and was probably lucky that he hadn't decided to pull off a feint.

His glance shifted to Krum as the Durmstrang seeker cut back across the stands. He'd probably be able to learn more focusing on the professional. Krum seemed to be fully focused on getting to the snitch. He was not trying to distract opposing players, or even bring any attention toward himself. He flew in quick, fluid circles around the pitch, allowing him to survey every inch of it from multiple angles.

Harry let his eyes gaze around the pitch as well. He ignored the actual action and attempted to find the snitch. Perhaps he'd be able to better determine when the match would end if he could spot it. Of course, he also wanted to see how long he could follow it for when he wasn't chasing it.

He wasn't sure how long it took, but he eventually found it.

"Snitch is by the left Beauxbaton's hoop," he said. After a moment Lilly responded.

"Yes, it is, there, just above the hoops," she said.

"I see it," Davies said. "Looks like Krum sees it as well." Krum, who had the optimal line anyway, was speeding down the pitch straight at the snitch. It made a feeble attempt to cut to the right, but the little golden ball never really had a chance.

Christmas day came quickly then. Harry wrote a quick thank you note to Sirius for the rather handy looking knife. He assumed it would be useful in the tasks ahead. Or at least make sneaking around the school at night a tad easier.

He realized he should probably explore more. He hadn't been nearly caught outside of bed once this semester yet this semester. That had to be a record for him. Hell, he'd barely had time to look at his map.

He even took a minute to look through the book Hermione had bought him. Of course, that was likely because the book was about quidditch teams. Of course, like the previous books she'd gifted to him, it just happened to be in French. Oh well, maybe that would make him practice more.

At the very least, he learned where Ballycastle was. He also deciphered a brief history of both the Bats and the Falcons. He decided he'd rather play for Ballycastle, if given the opportunity. But that was getting rather ahead of himself.

After he'd finished opening his presents he decided to go on a morning jog. The other Gryffindor fourth years looked at him like he was insane. When he was finishing up a giant snowball fight appeared to be forming on the grounds. Harry joined one of the sides but didn't put too much effort into the match.

Most of the girls left in the early afternoon to get ready for the ball. Harry trickled inside later when the rest of the crowd gave up on the match and headed back toward the dorm.

Ron was already there, cutting lace off of his robes with his wand. His friend looked rather focused, and rather annoyed. Harry vaguely remembered overhearing Ginny and the twins laughing about how bad Ron's dress robes were. Harry felt bad for his friend. He found his own dress robes folded neatly at the bottom of his trunk.

"So we're flying solo, then?" Ron asked, laughing a little bit as Harry started to change.

"What?" Harry asked, not quite getting his friends meaning. Of course to use 'we're' and 'solo' in the same sentence just seemed slightly off.

"We're both going without dates. Hermione refused to go with me when I asked. Said she had another date. I think she's making it up, though, because she wouldn't tell me who she's going with." Ron said. Harry blinked a little bit as he pulled on his robes, adjusting them to fit better as he did.

"She's not. She has a date," Harry said. Ron looked at him.

"Is she going with you?" he accused.

"No, she's not. But I know who she's going with," Harry said.

"Who?"

"It's not my secret to tell," Harry said. Ron just glared at him for a few moments. Harry finished dressing.

"Well at least we'll hang out all night then," Ron said. Harry fixed his tie in the mirror before he spoke.

"I have a date, Ron," he said. "And I've promised dances to a bunch of people."

"What, who? And since when do you know how to dance?"

"I took some lessons," Harry said. "And you'll find out, I suppose. I have to go meet her now. See you later, man." He left the dorm before his friend got a chance to comment further.

"Potter, champions and their dates are lining up over there!" Professor McGonagall said as he entered the entrance hall. "You do have a date, don't you?"

"Yes, she's meeting me here," he responded, moving over to wait where she had told him to. So far, the only other champion there was Krum, who waited patiently in the corner. He nodded briefly at Harry, but otherwise just looked surly as per usual.

"Nice match against Beauxbatons," Harry said, mostly to create a conversation. Krum looked at him for a moment before speaking.

"Thank you. They were not very good. We shall see you in the finals," Krum said rather sternly.

"I hate to jinx it, but I hope so," Harry said.

"Practice hard. Do not get lazy and you will not jinx it," the Bulgarian said. Harry was going to comment, but Hermione entered the hall at that moment and walked up to Krum. Harry couldn't help but think she looked gorgeous. He took a step away from the couple, not wanting to impose.

Cho and Cedric came down next. Harry thought Cho looked nice too. But as he stared at her he realized his crush was gone. Yes, Cho was very pretty, but he wasn't particularly interested in being the one who escorted here. He felt no jealousy toward Cedric. He gave them each a kind nod as they walked past.

All that changed a moment later, though, as Fleur entered the entrance hall on the arm or Roger Davies. Harry felt his fists clench and his throat tighten. His chest constricted and for a moment he had difficulty breathing. Fleur looked stunning in silvery-gray robes that perfectly complimented her figure. She'd done her hair up and was wearing very little makeup. Harry noticed pretty silver earrings and a pretty silver necklace as well.

He also noticed she seemed far too interested in her conversation with Roger. Way more interested than she should have been. They both walked past him without seeing him, which hurt. Harry suddenly found himself hating Roger, something he hadn't ever before. Every fiber of his being wanted to strangle the captain, to simply make him go away. Roger looked like he felt far too lucky, too, as he gazed at Fleur in ways Harry thought he shouldn't be allowed to.

Harry closed his eyes and took a deep breath, attempting to calm himself. He knew he had no real ill will toward Roger. He'd treated him with nothing but respect and had been incredibly helpful.

He noticed McGonagall was looking at him strangely. He was the only champion not ready. She looked annoyed, like she wanted to start the ball, but couldn't because his date had yet to arrive. Other students were already filing into the Great Hall, but the champions remained outside.

Harry couldn't help but wonder if Daphne stood him up. Had the whole thing simply been some ploy to embarrass him? Well if it was, it was working.

"Potter, over here," he heard a voice say. He turned and saw her then. She wore a gold dress that accentuated her form much better than the Viktor Krum jersey had. She had short, matching gold heels on, a couple of gold bracelets on her right wrist, and a thin gold necklace. Her dirty-blond hair was done up in a loose bun. She'd let some strands of hair fall down to frame her hazel eyes. She looked very nice.

"Daphne. Please call me Harry, though. If I'm called Potter all night I'll likely think I'm being attacked. You look fantastic," Harry said with a smile. She laughed a little bit.

"Thanks. You look rather nice yourself," she admitted.

"Better than Goyle?" Harry teased.

"Considerably," she responded dryly as McGonagall rushed over. She looked at the two fourth years for a moment. Her expression was unreadable, but Harry could tell they ranked rather high on a list of surprising couples. Well, assuming she kept such a list.

"Champions this way," she said. "Line up behind me, walk straight down the aisle and take seats at the table in the middle. You'll be joined by some judges and sponsors. The meal will commence before the ball." The champions did as she asked. Cedric and Cho led the way into the Great Hall and to the table. Harry and Daphne sat next to each other, near Hermione and Krum. The others sat further down the table. They were joined by a few of the sponsors. Harry recognized only one. He wore green robes and the same logo that was on Harry's tournament broom was plastered onto his right breast. Dumbledore started the feast by demonstrating how to order and soon the hall was filled with noise of people eating and conversing.

"So how did Goyle take it?" Harry asked, attempting to create some sort of a conversation with Daphne. She shrugged and daintily cut up a piece of chicken.

"Well enough, I suppose. I didn't tell him who I was going with, just that it wasn't going to be him. I'm sure I won't hear the end of it tonight." She speared the piece of chicken with her fork and brought it to her mouth.

"Well I hope they don't give you too much grief," he said honestly, cutting up his own food as well.

"At the very least I should be able to walk tomorrow," she said.

"What?" Harry asked, finding that to be a very strange statement.

"I'm assuming you'll be much kinder to my poor feet than Gregory," she responded. Harry couldn't help but laugh.

"I certainly hope so," Harry said. They continued to chat, not really about anything in particular. After a few moments of conversation the sponsor leaned over and spoke.

"Harry, excuse my interruption. I don't believe I've been introduced to your friend here," the sponsor said. Harry didn't believe he'd been introduced to the sponsor, but he let that slide.

"My date is Daphne, Daphne Greengrass," he said. Daphne gave the sponsor a quick nod.

"I'm Lewis Harris. Formally of Team Lotus. I was one of the designers of the broom you're flying in the tournament," he said. Harry nodded a little bit.

"Cool," he didn't know what else to say, "It flies well. I appreciate it."

"I'm glad you think so. Are you familiar with Team Lotus?" Harris asked.

"I'm sorry. I can't say that I am," Harry admitted.

"Ah. I thought being raised by non-magic types you may have some familiarity. We compete Formula One races," Harris said.

"Oh. I've watched a couple of those," Harry said. He vaguely remembered a Lotus car, although he couldn't remember if it ever performed well. Nor did he particularly care.

"Oh? Are you a fan? Team Lotus appears that it will be losing the grid spot for this upcoming season, but I could certainly arrange for you to be a guest at one of the races," Harris offered. "The British Grand Prix is shortly after the end of your term. We could shuttle you and your family out to Silverstone, if you like."

"Uh, we'll see," Harry said. And, while he was amused by the idea of telling the Dersleys' he'd received a free trip for his family to a race, he doubted it would go over well. And he was wondering where this conversation was going.

"Yes. But some of the sponsors and myself were wondering if you would be willing to do a favor for us, Harry," he asked carefully. Harry raised an eyebrow.

"And what's that?" he asked, trying to sound as skeptical as he could.

"Well it isn't much. It looks like my partner at Mercedes is already speaking with Mr. Krum about it. I'm sure my partner at Renault will approach Miss Sinclair tonight as well. Since the first quidditch matches have been played we'd like to get three players to give a comparison of the brooms. We figured it would be excellent PR for all of our companies," Harris explained.

"So what, you want the seekers to race each other?" Harry asked.

"No. We'd just like you to come out to the pitch this upcoming weekend and fly around on each of the three brooms. Then we'd just like to get some comments on the brooms as a whole. One of the quidditch periodicals will publish something about it," Harris explained. Harry couldn't help but think it sounded fun.

"Alright. I'll be there," Harry said. Harris thanked him and went back to his meal.

"You must get that a lot," Daphne said, carefully eating the dessert sundae she had ordered up.

"Not that often, really. That's the first time I've ever been asked to do something. It sounds fun," he admitted.

"They're using you, you know," she commented as she sucked a bit of chocolate syrup off of her spoon.

"How's that?"

"They just want you to say some good words about the brooms. They're trying to establish themselves in a new business, publicity from you and Krum will sell a lot of brooms," Daphne commented. "You should have had him pay you."

"I…erm. I never thought of that," Harry commented.

"Well. Whatever you do, Harry, make sure you get a good agent," she teased.

"Know anyone?" Harry laughed.

"No, but if I find someone, I'll make sure to let you know," she said. "Now the dancing is starting." Harry noticed that the other students were all starting to rise. The champions were heading over toward the center of the dance floor.

"It is. Well, Miss Greengrass, may I have the first dance," Harry joked.

"You may, Mr., Potter," she responded, taking his arm and walking with him to the dance floor. Harry couldn't help but notice the stares from just about everyone in the hall. He'd certainly surprised a few people with his choice of a date. Even Malfoy just looked on completely aghast. The best part was that the Slytherin couldn't think of an insult that didn't demean one of his housemates.

When they arrived in the middle of the dance floor he took her hand, placing his other on her waist. They started to move slowly with the music. He led her gently across the floor. Daphne looked pleasantly surprised.

"You're not bad. Whoever gave you lessons certainly was competent."

"I'm glad you approve." They danced mostly in silence then. Harry kept his eyes focused on her, mostly out of fear of accidently being caught looking at another girl. He certainly didn't have much dating experience, and he didn't expect a relationship to develop between he and Daphne, but he still knew looking at other girls would be bad form. At the very least he'd want her to enjoy herself.

As he spun around the floor with her he noticed Ron sitting alone at one of the tables. Ron's eyes shifted from Harry to Hermione, his expression indicated he felt betrayed by both of his friends. Harry felt bad for him, but couldn't say that he hadn't brought it on himself.

He turned Daphne so he wouldn't have to look at his friend. Of course, that put Fleur in his line of sight, so he shifted her once more until he could see Crabbe and Goyle. The sheer look of confusion on Goyle's face as he stared at Daphne was one of the funniest things Harry had ever seen. He smirked a tad and kept dancing.

Soon other pairs joined in the dancing. He continued to lead Daphne around the dance floor as he gazed at the other couples that occupied it. He looked at the other couples that swarmed onto the dance floor. None of the couples really surprised him.

He may have been biased, but he felt that He and Hermione had snagged the least likely dates. His gaze slid over Lilly, who wore a violet dress and danced with a tall, tanned guy who appeared to be too old for her. Seeing his teammate reminded him of a promise he'd made though.

"I hope you don't mind, but I did promise a few dances to some other friends tonight," Harry said quietly speaking just over the volume of the music.

"Trying to get rid of me already, Harry?" Daphne asked. Her lips curved up into a smirk.

"Of course not," Harry responded quickly, feeling flustered.

"Don't worry about it," Daphne said. "I didn't expect to have your undivided attention the entire evening. I'll make do. But I do want the last dance." Her voice was rather stern.

"It's yours then," He responded. They danced for another song, twirling through the crowded dance floor. They didn't say much, both of their gazes wandered around the hall, looking at other couples. Harry was just happy that he managed to correctly lead her around the dance floor. And that he never once stepped on her feet.

Harry noticed that he finished the dance next to Krum and Hermione.

"May I borrow your date for a dance, Viktor?" He asked. The older player looked him for a brief moment.

"Yes, but I will want her back," Viktor said. Harry nodded and took Hermione's hand, as Krum took Daphne's. The next song started as he led his friend across the dance floor.

"Having fun?" he asked her.

"Yes, you?" She responded, grinning at him.

"Yes, Daphne has been great," Harry said. "We haven't really talked about much, though."

"Either have Viktor and I. One of the sponsors wouldn't stop talking to him over dinner. I think he almost hit the man," Hermione laughed.

"Yea, I had one talking to me too. You know, it looks like our other friend isn't having that great of a night," Harry nodded over Hermione's shoulder, and then spun them so she was facing toward Ron.

"Well he should have been more proactive. I heard him ranking girls based on their looks in the common room the other night. I'm glad he didn't find a date," Hermione said coldly.

"He can be a bit of a jerk. You'd think having that many older brothers would have been a tad more humbling," Harry commented.

"Yes. But Daphne Greengrass, Harry? How did that happen?" Hermione asked.

"Titus set us up. Apparently her options were Goyle or me. I'm just glad she picked me," he laughed.

"Well you do look quite nice tonight, Harry," Hermione said. "Certainly considerably better than Goyle."

"Thanks. You're looking rather nice tonight, too. Do I want to know how long the hair took?" He teased.

"No, you don't," she said flatly. "But if you look, Pansy is completely ignoring Malfoy and staring at Daphne with Krum." Harry turned them until he saw that.

"She is. Looks like she wants to stab my date," Harry commented.

"And steal mine," Hermione added.

"How serious is that?" he asked, knowing she would know he meant her relationship with Krum.

"I don't know. We don't really know each other. Probably more serious than you and Daphne, but more than that I can't say."

"Well he seems like a good bloke. He certainly can fly."

"I'm not sure his quidditch playing ability has much to do with determining if he's good or not," Hermione commented.

"Well it may not have any effect, but it certainly doesn't hurt. It looks like he wants you back, though," he said as he noticed Krum and Daphne moving back toward them. They switched partners flawlessly and Harry found himself staring into Daphne's hazel eyes as she spoke.

"Try for your dance with Seslion next," Daphne commented.

"My what?" Harry asked.

"Well I'm assuming you're going to dance with her, being teammates and all. And if I dance with her date I'll dance with the three best quidditch players here," she commented. Harry looked over toward Lilly, wondering who her date was.

"Are you complimenting me, there? Or did you have a third player in mind?" Harry laughed.

"Complimenting you. But don't let it go to your head. I'm sure I have a 'Potter stinks' badge somewhere I could wear," she teased.

"Please don't," Harry said. "Who is her date anyway, I don't recognize him."

"Diego Langes-Piquet. He's a chaser in the European leagues. Won the league MVP this last year for a Greek club. And he's only like nineteen," Daphne said. "You really don't follow professional quidditch do you?"

"I spend my summer with Muggles," Harry laughed. Daphne didn't seem to find that a satisfactory answer, but she chose not to comment.

"Regardless, dance with her next," she ordered.

"As you wish," he responded, smiling and shaking his head. He moved over toward Lilly and found his chaser teammate in his arms for the next dance.

"Sorry," he laughed. "But my date wanted to dance with yours."

"It's okay," Lilly started to lead the dance, obviously not thinking Harry was good enough to let him lead. "You are quite a bit better than when we first practiced."

"I had a good teacher."

"And complimentary, too. Daphne is very lucky," she said.

"I don't think Daphne and I are going to be very serious," he responded.

"Really? You make a cute couple."

"You think so? Regardless, I'm interested in someone else." He tried his best to not let his eyes wander to Fleur. He failed. The French girl was dancing with the French keeper, Bourdais, while Roger looked on, rather angrily.

"Ah," Lilly said, seeing where Harry was looking. "Good luck with that." She didn't sound like she was really wishing him luck.

"No advice?" Harry asked.

"I don't think she's your type. You'd be better off with someone younger and not a Veela," Lilly said bluntly.

"Are you serious?" Harry said.

"Yes," Lilly responded. "Especially for your first. Go after someone easier." Harry didn't really like that answer. But he tried his best to not let it show.

After the song ended he again danced with Daphne. She was rather flushed and giggly.

"So that Piquet was charming, I take it?" He laughed.

"Uh-huh," she admitted. "Thanks for letting me do that."

"You're welcome," Harry said, not realizing he'd had a choice in the matter. He noticed most of the couples were filtering off of the dance floor to get something to drink. He wasn't the least bit winded, which he knew he owed to his training, but he figured he should ask his partner. "Would you like a drink?"

"Please," she responded, taking his arm as the dance finished. They walked over toward the tables where drinks were being served. Harry noticed most of the students appeared to have wine and not the usual pumpkin juice. He took two glasses, handing one to Daphne before sipping his own. It was very diluted.

Daphne sat on a nearby bench, Harry moved to sit next to her.

"I should have worn different shoes," she joked.

"I can't imagine wearing heels," Harry said as Viktor and Hermione approached them. Hermione sat next to Daphne as Viktor spoke to Harry.

"You going to fly for the sponsors?" he asked, rather bluntly. Harry had a feeling he was not a man of many words.

"Yea, I am. It sounds fun. Are you going to?"

"Yes. Agent would be disappointed if I did not," Viktor admitted.

"I'll see you out there then," Harry added. Viktor nodded.

"Hey Harry!" He turned and saw Ginny smiling at him. She wore a pink dress and looked rather nice. He also noticed Neville was winded and taking a large drink. "Can I trouble you for the next dance?" Harry looked over at Daphne, who appeared to be receiving lecture from Hermione. He didn't have time to answer the question, though, as Krum put a hand on his back and pushed him toward the younger girl.

"Don't make pretty witches wait," he heard Krum say from behind him.

Harry managed to not fall over as he took Ginny's hand and moved back to the dance floor. He led her carefully through the slow song.

"Having fun?" he asked. She nodded rather enthusiastically.

"Yes. You could have probably done better than a Slytherin, though," she said. "Ron is very unhappy with you and Hermione. He thinks you're both being conned by the enemy."

"The enemy?" Harry asked with a laugh. "And Daphne has been great."

"Apparently all non Gryffindors are the enemy. And are things serious with the two of you. I wasn't aware you were even friends?"

"We weren't really. I don't think things are that serious."

"That's good," Ginny said with a full smile. Harry was going to comment that she'd just made fun of her brother for considering opposing houses the enemy, but the song ended and Ginny scampered away with a quick excuse that she wanted to try to dance with Krum as well.

Harry walked back toward his date. He noticed Hermione was still lecturing Daphne, who looked rather annoyed by it. He also saw that Roger and Fleur were standing near the drinks table. Roger was talking animatedly about something. Fleur didn't appear to be paying attention. Harry walked up to them.

"Can I have the next dance, Fleur?" He asked. She looked at him.

"Oui," she said quickly. Harry doubted she even knew she slipped into French. Harry offered her his hand, and she took it, quickly. She hurried away from Roger and back onto the dance floor. She took the lead in the dance as soon as the music began.

"You look stunning tonight, Fleur," he said, letting her lead the dance. "Are you enjoying yourself?" She took a deep breath before speaking. But it didn't matter, she still sounded annoyed.

"Yes. Ze ball 'as been fun," she said curtly.

"Your tone indicates otherwise," Harry said calmly. Fleur looked at him, almost like she were stunned someone would simply not believe what she said without question.

"Roger is a bit trying," she admitted, carefully weighing her words as she spoke.

"I'm sorry about that," Harry said.

"It is not your fault," she said quickly.

"Regardless. I still rather you enjoyed yourself," Harry said. Fleur smiled weakly at him.

"When I am 'aving fun, I cannot control my aura as well. Too much fun ultimately leads to unwanted affections," Fleur admitted. Harry hadn't thought about that before. Of course, he rarely even remembered that she had an aura.

"That's too bad," Harry said, not sure what else there was to say. He kept dancing with her, moving a tad closer to her.

"I am accustomed to it," she said. Harry wasn't sure what to say about that. Their song ended and Fleur moved away from it.

"Wait. One more," Harry said. She looked back at him, seeming to weigh the options for a moment, before walking back into his arms.

"Fine, but you 'ave to lead," she said, and he did. It was a slow song and he held her close as they danced. He held onto her carefully, leading them in a slow circle on the dance floor. Fleur didn't say anything. She didn't need to. She simply clung to him and moved with him.

Harry never wanted the song to end. But after four blissful minutes it did. Fleur dislodged herself from him and moved away without a word. Harry watched her walk back toward Roger and accept a drink with a smile. He couldn't look away. Thankfully he was pulled into another dance.

"Hung up on the Veela, eh?" Daphne asked. "I'm actually a little jealous."

"I'm sorry," Harry said, blushing a little bit. "I should probably be more focused on you. Really, thanks for coming with me."

"I'm having fun, Harry. Unfortunately there's no one else I want to try to dance with. So you're stuck with me for the rest of the night."

"That's fine," he said as he pulled her closer for another slow song. "What was Hermione lecturing you about? House elf rights?"

"House elf rights? What? Why would anyone lecture me about that? They go insane when you free them!" Harry just shrugged. "How did you know she was lecturing me?"

"She gets this look," Harry responded. "I've seen it enough."

"I bet you have. She was lecturing me about you."

"Anything good?"

"Nothing out of the ordinary. Just some more things I can use as blackmail material. You know, make you do things for me so I don't tell Draco," Daphne said.

"Oh good," Harry responded dryly. "And what do I have to do now?"

"Oh just keep dancing. I'll think of something eventually," she responded, moving closer to him. Harry obliged, moving in a slow, small circle in much the same way he had with Fleur. Daphne seemed to enjoy herself. Mostly they just looked at each other. Harry couldn't help but wonder how things may have been different had he not met Malfoy until after the sorting. Had that been the case then perhaps he and Daphne wouldn't have seemed so strange.

Harry didn't think about that too hard, though. Instead he just focused on dancing with the pretty witch in his arms. They spent the vast majority of the night on the dance floor, simply enjoying each other's company.

They did take occasional break where they would sip some of the diluted wine and chat quietly about nothing in particular. Funny stories from each other's houses were the main topics of conversation. They even described their house's common room to each other. Harry didn't have the heart to tell her that he'd been in the Slytherin one before.

It was one such break where they found themselves talking with a few Hufflepuffs. Harry wasn't really paying attention to the general conversation. It was something about the tournament, which meant he should have probably been paying more attention. But he was too busy watching Fleur and Roger. Roger was trying to lead her out of the Great Hall. She seemed to be resisting. Judging from her dress, she didn't have her wand handy. Harry saw them leave. He knew he shouldn't have cared. But he couldn't help but feel that something was wrong.

"I'm going to use the loo," he said, standing and moving toward the doors.

"Hurry back," Daphne called after him. "You still owe me that final dance."

He stepped into the hall. A few students loitered around, ending their evenings early, Harry supposed. He wasn't sure which way Fleur and Roger had gone, but he picked the path that led back to the Ravenclaw common room.

It only took a few halls before he could hear Roger's voice. He knew he shouldn't be doing this. Something about it just felt wrong. He found them quickly. Roger was kissing her, rather forcibly. He had her pressed to a wall. Harry swallowed hard, unsure of what to do. He'd seen people snogging before, to be sure, but he'd never wanted to punch the guy before.

He was going to leave. He knew he should. But he noticed Fleur struggling against him. She pushed him away briefly and tried to move away. She had tears on her face. Roger was on top of her after a moment.

He reacted purely on instinct. He didn't think of any of the ramifications. He pulled out his wand and pointed it at his Captain.

"Stupefy," he said. Roger collapsed in a heap when the jolt of light hit him. Fleur looked up and her eyes met Harry's.

"'Arry?" she asked carefully. He walked up to her.

"Are you okay?" he asked. He looked down briefly to make sure Roger was indeed stunned.

"Oui. Just stupid," she said. "May I 'ave your wand?" Harry handed it to her without thinking. She conjured herself a tissue and handed it back.

"Are you sure?" he asked again.

"Yes. Mother always said to always 'ave my wand. I left it in my room," she sighed. Harry was surprised that she had recovered so quickly.

"This happens a lot?" Harry asked.

"I told you. Ze aura always wins," Fleur said. "'E caught me off guard, or I would have charmed 'im and made 'im leave," Fleur explained. Harry didn't have the heart to say that a crying defenseless witch probably wouldn't be able to charm much. He noticed she was still crying a tad too, sniffing gently. He moved closer to her and hugged her. She simply went limp in his arms.

"I'm sorry," he said gently, closing his eyes and trying his best not to breathe. He wasn't sure what exactly triggered Roger's actions, but at the very least he didn't want the same fate to befall him.

"It is okay, 'Arry," she said softly. "You should get back to ze ball. Your date will be worried."

"She can wait," Harry said quickly. Of course, the thought made him feel bad for Daphne. At the very least he wouldn't miss the final dance. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes, 'Arry," she slid out of his arms. "I will take care of Roger."

"What are you going to do to him?" Harry asked. Fleur looked at him for a moment, her eyes still wet. She smiled weakly, though.

"Prop him up against ze wall and walk away," Fleur said. "When 'e wakes up 'e will probably just assume 'e will likely assume 'e just passed out."

"Oh. That sounds like an okay plan. I'll do it." Harry slid Roger over toward the wall, leaving him there. Fleur just watched, she was still shaking slightly. After a moment she finally spoke.

"Thank you, 'Arry. I do not like to admit it. But my own stupidity caused me to be 'elpless tonight. It looks like I should 'ave taken you up on ze offer to accompany you tonight." She said slowly.

"I'm just glad you're okay," Harry responded dumbly. "Are you going back to the ball?"

"No. But you should. I am going back to ze carriage," she said rather sternly. He walked with her to the entrance hall, not sure of what to say. When they arrived he still didn't know what to say. Fleur broke the awkward silence.

"'Ave you figured out ze clue for ze next task yet?" she asked.

"I haven't really thought about it," Harry admitted.

"Open it under water," she said quickly. "Now enjoy ze rest of your night." She turned to leave. Harry saw Daphne emerge from the Great Hall at that moment. She looked at him, he turned and watched Fleur go. He knew he should probably follow her. He knew he should to something noble like escort her back to the carriage. He knew he should do anything that could prove he wasn't just a boy.

But Madame Maxime beat him to it. The headmistress walked up behind her star pupil and Harry realized he hasn't even managed to wish her a good night.

"Harry?" Daphne asked quietly from his side.

"Sorry," He said quickly. "Just ran into Fleur. I was just saying good night. I didn't miss the last dance, did I?"

"No. You didn't," she said, taking his arm and leading him back into the hall.

The ball was winding down, but most couples were still there. Daphne led him back to the dance floor and they slow-danced once more.

"You should probably be aware of the Hufflepuffs," she said in an obvious attempt to keep the mood light.

"Why's that?" Harry asked.

"Susan and Hannah are almost as obsessed with you as they are Cedric. When he's gone next year you may want to test most of your food."

"With the looks some of the Slytherins are giving me now, I should do that anyway," Harry responded.

"That may be a good idea," Daphne agreed.

"Sounds like a lot of work," Harry laughed.

"Just have an elf do it for you. I'm sure Granger will appreciate that," Daphne laughed.

"Oh yes. That would end well. She'd probably end up assaulting me if I did something like that." As he finished speaking an announcement came on that they were on the final song of the evening. It was also slow, one of the slowest of the night. Daphne inched closer to him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and moved her body closer to his. They silently moved in a small circle for the first few moments of the song.

"So, are you really going to try for the French witch?" She asked quietly.

"I don't know," he responded. "I'd like to try."

"You and every other male in the castle."

"I guess."

"Well, how are you going to do it?"

"I don't know."

"Well, I don't know anything about her. But she seems like she could use someone mellow and caring. I expect she doesn't get many boys that simply care for her. That may be your best route." Daphne advised.

"Thanks for the advice," Harry said carefully.

"You're welcome. And if that doesn't work, you could always just tell her and be assertive. But don't make it seem like you're charmed."

"Maybe I'll try that."

"Yes, but I must tell you. It's rather bad form to talk about how you're going to try to woo another girl while dancing," she said.

"But you brought it up!" Harry claimed. She laughed.

"That's irrelevant, Harry." She closed her eyes. Moving as close to him as she could while he led her in the short circles. He figured it was probably best if he simply kept silent for the remainder of the dance.

When it ended the remaining couples were ushered out of the hall by tired looking professors. Most of the students loitered around the hall, not quite wanting the night to end. Harry and Daphne walked toward the junction where they would have to part for their respective common rooms.

"Harry," Daphne said quietly. He paused and looked at her.

"Yes Daphne?" Harry asked.

"I had a fantastic time tonight. Thanks for asking me," She said, giving him another tight hug. She paused for a moment and stared into his eyes.

"You're welcome." He blushed. "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. I had a fantastic time as well. She paused for a moment. Harry wasn't sure if he should let go of her or not. The next thing he knew her soft lips were pressed to his own. He froze. After a moment Daphne pulled away and looked at him.

"Was that your first kiss?" She asked carefully.

"Uhm, yea," Harry admitted, again feeling his face flush.

"You're lucky I'm not the French witch. I'll give you a mulligan. Try again," she ordered.

"What?" he asked.

"Kiss me again," she said, rather more sternly. Harry didn't have the heart to tell her she initiated the first one. Instead, he simply obeyed. He leaned forward and pressed his lips cautiously to hers. He kept the kiss as careful and light as he could. After a few moments Daphne pulled away.

"Was that better?" he asked.

"Considerably." She smirked. "Harry Potter's first kiss. I hope you don't mind if I brag about that."

"Go for it," Harry shrugged.

"Good. Good night then, Harry." She gave him a peck on the cheek. "Thank you again." She started to walk down to the Slytherin common room.

"Thank you as well, Daphne," he said quietly. As he walked back to the Gryffindor common room he again allowed himself to think what may have been had he not convinced the sorting hat he wasn't a Slytherin.

But that thought didn't last as he remembered leaving Roger stunned against the wall. He wondered what repercussions would come from that. At the very least, their next practice should be interesting, even though it wasn't until after break ended. Roger couldn't have known he was there, though. Fleur was the only one who saw him. Hopefully she was right and he'd simply assume he passed out.

Either way, he wouldn't worry about it until morning. He'd focus on his egg now. Hopefully Fleur's clue would help him more. Of course, if water was required for the clue, water would likely be in the task. So he assumed the lake, the largest body of water in the area, would be involved.

He shook that thought out of his head. Until he figured out the clue, he shouldn't think too hard about possible tasks. He could just wind up preparing for something completely irrelevant. And that could be a fatal mistake.

Author's Note: I'm not sure where to begin on this chapter. Absolutely nothing from the planning of the story found its way into this one. Harry's date was originally Astoria Greengrass, set up in much the same way. But I had assumed she was a third year, as opposed to a second. So, I changed my mind on that. From there, pretty much every girl who rejected him last chapter became a potential option. For a variety of reasons, they didn't make the cut.

So instead I fashioned this version of Daphne. Part annoyed Slytherin, part happy to not have to dance with Goyle. She ended up being somewhat closer to how the 'Lilly' character was planned to be in the original draft, before she fell into a supporting role. In the end, all I can really say about this chapter is that I'm glad it's over. The ball was the roadblock that I knew I'd have to deal with sooner or later.

Regardless, I hope you enjoy reading it more than I enjoyed writing it. Next up is a little more filler before the next task and Quidditch match. Two things that I'm at least excited about writing. The next chapter 'should' be a tad shorter. It mapped at around 6,000 words, but we'll see.

Either way, thanks for your reviews, I appreciate every one of them. I hope you enjoy the update.