Chapter 7: Once Upon a Snowy Night's Dream
As December started, Harry and Ginny walked into the Great Hall with Rose, Ron, Neville, and Hermione. They waved at Fleur as they sat down for breakfast. Harry glanced at the Head table to see Dumbledore frowning at him again. Harry just shot him a glare to let the old man know he knew what Dumbledore had done in the past. As Harry locked eyes with him for a brief moment, Harry felt a slight pressure in his head. Harry thought of a solid metal wall as he took Ginny's hand. His parents had warned him of this; the old man was trying to read his mind. His mother had also told him that bonded couples had a natural defense to the Mind Arts. Harry knew by touching Ginny, those defenses became stronger. Dumbledore seemed to recoil in surprise.
Harry smirked as he turned back to the table and Ginny. She looked at him with a knowing look before shooting a glare at the Headmaster. Hermione looked at them with a questioning look, but Harry and Ginny just shook their heads. Rose looked at the Head table with a frown before turning back to her plate.
Breakfast was almost over when Dumbledore stood, calling for attention by tapping his goblet with his knife.
"It has long been a tradition during the Triwizard Tournament that a Yule Ball is held on Christmas Eve," he began. "This Tournament is no different. On Christmas Eve, we shall host the Yule Ball. It is a night to mingle with our visitors and a time to have some fun frolicking with one another. The Ball shall start at dinner that night, and continue until one in the morning. A special curfew will be extended to students attending the Ball. All students in fourth year and above are welcome to attend. Any lower years are welcome if asked to attend with an older student."
Harry grinned. Now he knew why his Hogwarts letter had included dress robes on it. He quickly turned to Ginny. "Gin, will you be my date to the ball?"
"I'd love to, Harry," Ginny smiled before kissing him.
"You couldn't wait to ask her in private?" complained Ron.
"Grow up, Ronald," Hermione huffed. Ron was about to retort when a piece of toast hit him in the side of his face.
"My brother and your sister happen to be happy about going," Rose groused at Ron. "Leave them alone."
"And I thought just having Hermione grumpy at me was bad," Ron shook his head.
"What is that supposed to mean, Ronald?" Hermione glared at him. Ron looked between Hermione and an outraged Rose with a gulp.
"Go ahead, Ron," Ginny smirked at him, "dig your own grave."
Ron stammered but remained silent as he looked between Hermione and Rose, who were both glaring at him. Finally, he raised his hands in surrender.
"Smart choice," Rose told him. She rested her head on her hand with a sigh. "I wonder if I'll get asked to go?"
"But me and Ron don't even have dates," Neville complained as they followed Harry toward McGonagall's office.
"That can change," Harry argued. "Gin and I are working on that for you guys. Neither one of us want either of you to miss the event of the year."
"But…" Ron started.
"Let me and Gin worry about it, Ron," Harry cut him off. "And to get you two prepared for this, as well as me, I've arranged some special help."
Ron and Neville had no time to argue as Harry knocked on their Head of House's office door. McGonagall opened the door, waving them in. Harry smiled as he spotted Lily by the fireplace.
"Hi, mum," he grinned as he hugged her.
"Hi, Harry," Lily smiled. She opened her arms to Neville next. "Hi, Neville."
"Hi, Aunt Lily," he grinned as he hugged his godmother.
"Found a date yet?" asked Lily.
"No," Neville sighed.
"Gin and I are working on it for both of them, mum," Harry grinned. Neville and Ron shared a resigned look.
"Hi, Ron," Lily nodded at him with a smile.
"Hello, Mrs.… Lily," Ron corrected after a look from her.
"Now then," McGonagall spoke to get the boys' attention. "You three are here to learn how to dance, which is most important for you, Mr. Potter."
"Why is that, Professor?" Harry asked, confused.
"No one has told you yet?" she asked. Harry shook his head. "Other than making the Ball as unforgettable as possible for Miss Weasley, the Champions must open the dancing."
"Oh, Merlin," Harry sighed. "No pressure."
"This is way easier than facing a dragon, son," Lily consoled him, putting her arm around his shoulders.
"If you say so, mum," Harry sighed again.
"We shall begin when our other instructor arrives," McGonagall stated.
The boys could only nod before a knock on the office door sounded. McGonagall opened the door to reveal Professor Sprout. McGonagall waved her in. Harry had the feeling he was about to have some major blackmail material on both his best mate and godbrother. He had to suppress a laugh at the looks on their faces as Sprout took Neville and McGonagall guided Ron over to the middle of the room.
"Fleur," Harry called as he saw her at break the next day. She turned to her friends, speaking in rapid French before walking away from them. Fleur smiled as she approached him. "Do you have a date to the ball, yet?"
"Non," she looked at him darkly. "Are you not…"
"Not for me," Harry assured her. "I'm taking Gin. I have two friends that need dates. Ginny's brother, Ron, and my godbrother, Neville. Ginny's talking to some friends of hers to try to get them dates, but I thought about you and your Veela side."
"Oui, eet doez geet een zhe vay," Fleur nodded. "Too many are affected by eet."
"Ron is affected by it too much," he nodded. "But Neville, on the other hand, isn't and has confidence issues…" Harry explained lowering his voice.
"And vous zhink by goeeng vith me…?"
"Yes," Harry nodded.
"Alright, I shall," Fleur nodded with a small smile. "But, 'e steel needs to ask me."
"You got it," Harry smiled. Harry glanced over her shoulder, waving at someone. Fleur turned to see Neville with a small bouquet of flowers in his hand.
"Fleur," Neville gulped. He took a quick breath. With a bow, he extended the flowers to her. "Would you permit me to escort you to the Ball?"
"Oui, Neville," Fleur smiled as she took the flowers before placing a kiss on each of his blushing cheeks.
The courtyard was totally silent as most of the students looked on in shock as the normally shy and soft-spoken Neville Longbottom asked Fleur Delacour to the ball and she agreed. Harry heard a thud behind him. He turned to see Malfoy had slipped off one of the benches as he watched. Harry smirked at Neville as they waved to Fleur as she went to her next class.
Harry and Neville entered the Transfiguration classroom a few minutes later to applause from the Gryffindor and Hufflepuff students. McGonagall gave them both a small smile and a nod as they took their seats. Ron stared at Neville with his mouth hanging open.
"You're next," Harry pointed at Ron.
"But…"
"I told you," Harry rolled his eyes, "Gin and I have it covered." Harry looked over at Hermione with a mock glare. "Especially, since someone has a mystery date and won't tell anyone who it is."
Hermione blushed as she ducked her head.
Harry met Ginny and Rose as they climbed the stairs out of the dungeons before lunch. Ginny greeted him with a quick kiss as he took her bag.
"Any luck?" Harry asked.
"Yes, but Ron will still have to ask her," Ginny nodded. "And Neville is the talk of Hogwarts right now," she smiled. "Nice touch suggesting the flowers, love."
"It was my dad's suggestion, I just went with it," Harry shrugged. "How was Potions?"
"It's been a little strange since Rose came," Ginny shook her head in bewilderment.
"Snape keeps getting distracted every time he looks at me," Rose shrugged. "He knocked a cauldron off his desk today."
"That is strange," Harry nodded as they sat down. "He hasn't been nasty to me since the newspaper broke the story of mum and dad being alive, either."
"Worry about that git later, love," Ginny patted his hand as she looked up to see Ron sit down. "I have a date for you, Ron, but you still have to ask her."
Ron sighed. "Who?"
"Demzela," Ginny answered. Ron looked at her with wide eyes. "Hey, it could be worse. I could have set you up with someone you don't even like or know!"
"True," Ron sighed. He glanced at the door to see Demzela enter the Great Hall with a few of her friends. Neville flicked his wand, making a yellow rose appear, and quickly handed it to Ron. He nodded his thanks as he left his spot to ask Demzela. She accepted to a clatter of flatware from around the Great Hall.
As Harry looked around, he noticed some of the older students that were couples either glaring at Ron and Neville or looking envious of how they asked. Most of the glares were from other boys whose girlfriends were questioning why they hadn't asked them with flowers. Harry snickered as he took Ginny's hand as they began to eat.
"Pardon me, Miss Potter?"
Harry turned to see Ernie Macmillan standing behind Rose with three lilies in his hand. Harry raised an eyebrow at his classmate from Hufflepuff. Ginny squeezed his hand to stop any overprotective actions.
"Yes?" Rose asked as she turned.
"Would you do me the honor of allowing me to escort you to the forthcoming Ball?" Ernie bowed as he held out the lilies.
"Yes," Rose smiled as she took the flowers.
Ernie turned to Harry. "I promise to be a perfect gentleman, Harry."
"Glad to hear it, Ernie," Harry nodded. "Oh! And if you need dress robes still, meet me and some others at the Three Broomsticks on the next Hogsmeade visit. My dad is taking us shopping for any last-minute appeal we might need."
"I shall keep that in mind," Ernie nodded. He turned back with a smile for Rose. "Until later, Rose."
"Bye, Ernie," Rose smiled in return.
"And you thought you wouldn't get asked," Ginny patted Rose on the shoulder.
"Know-it-all," Rose frowned as she handed Ginny two Galleons. Ginny just smirked at her.
"Bonjour, ladies," Fleur greeted them.
"Hey, Fleur," Ginny smiled.
"Hi, cousin," Rose grinned.
"'Ermione, zhiz ees for vous az vell, and Ron's date," Fleur stated holding up a letter in her hand. "Lily haz written me to tell vous ve 'ave our own shopping trip to go on."
"Thanks, Fleur. I'll let Dem know," Ginny grinned.
Harry and Ginny walked hand in hand, laughing with Rose and Ernie. Fleur and Neville, with Ron and Demzela just behind them, were casually walking toward Hogsmeade with them. Hermione walked alongside of them to try to find some "better shoes" on the girls' shopping trip, as she had put it. Ernie had decided to join the boys to meet James and make sure his dress robes were acceptable to Lord Potter to take his daughter to the Yule Ball. Ernie had told Harry it was part of his upbringing as a proper gentleman. Harry had smiled with a nod, accepting Ernie's reasons.
Ernie was explaining how some of his fellow Hufflepuffs kept coming to him for advice on how to ask a girl to the Ball. Harry, Ron, and Neville were nodding as they had similar experiences with most of Gryffindor. Most of Hogwarts was still in shock with Neville's public asking of Fleur to the Yule Ball. Harry had seen his godbrother's confidence soar after word had quickly spread. Harry was just happy to help Neville start to come out of the shell he had placed around himself. With Ginny and Fleur's help, they were making significate progress.
They entered the Three Broomsticks to be greeted by Lily, James, and Sirius. After Ernie and Demzela were introduced, Ernie receiving a critical eye from James and Sirius, Lily told them how they were going to shop separately.
"Ladies, you will be coming with me to Diagon Alley," Lily began. "Yes, we have already gotten special permission to go."
"Gentlemen, you'll be accompanying Sirius and myself to Gladrags here in Hogsmeade," James explained. "The reason the ladies get to go to Diagon Alley is that Madam Malkin has gladly accepted appointments for all of you ladies for your formal attire."
"Gents, if you will follow me," Sirius gestured toward the door.
"Behave," Lily told James and Sirius with a warning look.
"You wound me, Lils," Sirius mocked hurt.
"Black, I'm warning you…" Lily pointed at him. She turned to James. "That goes double for you, Jamie!"
The teens giggled at the antics of Harry's parents and godfather. The boys turned to follow Sirius after Harry gave Ginny a quick hug and kiss.
"Ladies, gather 'round," Lily held out a piece of cloth. "Grab hold. We are taking a portkey directly to Madam Malkin's."
After the girls had all taken hold of the cloth, Lily activated the portkey. They landed in the front room of Madam Malkin's a few seconds later.
"We have one rule to follow while we're here, ladies," Lily told them as the girls recovered from the travel. "We all stay here in Madam Malkin's. No other shopping in the Alley. That was the one condition for this trip by your parents. But we have the rest of your time today to get fitted and accessories. Also, there will be no cost to you. I will be paying for everything. And no arguments." Lily paused to look at Ginny, who was about to speak. "Think of this as a Christmas gift from me. And there is no price limit."
"Thank you, Mrs. Potter," Demzela breathed in disbelief. She turned to Rose, whispering to her. "Wow! Your mum is generous."
"Just her way," Rose shrugged. "Not like my family will be able to spend the amount of gold they have in the Family Vault, ever!"
"What do mean?" Ginny asked, quietly.
"The Potter Family Vault is huge," Rose replied. "Double the Great Hall in size, and with eight small mountains of gold. That's not even counting the other stuff that's in there."
"Oh," Ginny breathed.
"It even glows like some people," Rose commented, looking straight at Ginny.
"What do you mean?" Ginny replied, trying to act nonchalant. Rose frowned, not believing her.
"Shall we begin, ladies?" Madam Malkin chirped happily as she came out of the back room before Rose could make any other comments.
"Right this way, gentlemen," the attendant smiled as she gestured to the back room of Gladrags after they had entered.
"Remember, guys," James pointed to each of them, "there is no price limit, and everything is on me. And don't even think of arguing, Ron. Consider it an early Christmas gift from me."
"Thanks, Mr. Potter," Ron agreed.
"It's James, Ron," he shook his head. "No need for you to be formal with me."
"Right. Sorry," Ron nodded. James smiled with a nod.
"Now, a word of advice to all of you," James began. "Yes, it is important for you to look good for the ball, however, these events are not about you. They are about your ladies. The better time they have, the better time you will have. I learned this lesson a long time ago, the hard way."
Sirius snickered. James frowned at him. Sirius raised his hands but continued to smirk.
"Now then," James cleared his throat as he turned back to the boys. "Miss Weatherby will start with your measurements to ensure your dress robes fit properly. An ill-fitting pair of dress robes leads to disasters. And you don't want any embarrassing moments for your dates."
"Because if you do something embarrassing it reflects on your date," Sirius put in with a straight face. "And you don't want that to ruin her evening." He cringed. "It's not pleasant if you do."
"Personal experience, Sirius?" Harry asked with a grin.
"Yes," Sirius nodded. "Your dad and I both. His was just more laughable," he grinned at James.
"Oi! Shut it, Pads!" James frowned. He turned back to the boys. "Don't ask! Just know it was something I do not want to repeat. And if you have friends that love to tease you," he shot Sirius another frown, "they won't let you forget it, ever!" He paused as he turned back to the boys. "And neither will your dates."
The boys gulped at the thought of that.
Harry tried to take deep, calming breaths as he waited for Ginny in the Common Room on Christmas Eve. Neville was still getting ready in their dorm room. Ron was standing beside him looking like he was about to faint. Fred and George were wiping their sweaty palms on the pants of their dress robes. Several girls had come down and left with their dates or together with other girls who had a date from another House. Harry could feel Ginny's excitement and anticipation, which did nothing for his own nerves.
Angelina and Alicia came down the stairs to meet Fred and George. The twins were stuttering and looking awestruck by the two Gryffindor Chasers. Neville finally came down, still adjusting his dress robes as the twins left. He was a bundle of nerves just like Harry, but for far different reasons. Shy, self-doubting Neville had started to come out of his shell, thanks to Harry, Ginny, and most importantly, Lily, but throughout that day his old insecurities had resurfaced. Harry really couldn't blame him much. Neville only had a date to the ball that happened to be the Beauxbatons Champion, who was part Veela, and gorgeous. Harry caught Neville by the shoulders.
"Relax," Harry told him. Neville looked like he wanted to run and hide. "Deep breath."
Neville closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. When he opened his eyes again, he looked much calmer. "Thanks, Harry."
"That's what godbrothers are for," Harry smiled. "Just keep what my dad and Sirius told us in mind. It's about the girls, not us. Stay calm and focused and you'll do fine."
"You think so?" Neville asked, looking unsure again.
"Nev, you picked the dancing up faster than me or Ron," Harry reminded him. "You have nothing to worry about."
After another deep breath, Neville nodded with a smile. "You're right. Thanks for reminding me."
"Anytime," Harry grinned. He glanced at the stairs as Parvati Patil came down. "Could you do me a favor?" Harry paused as Neville nodded. "Escort Rose down since you both have to meet your dates downstairs?"
"You bet," Neville smiled. They heard Ron gulp loudly. They turned to see Hermione and Demzela coming down the stairs.
Hermione was in a slate blue colored A-line cut dress. It had short, off-the-shoulder sleeves that connected to the scooped neckline. The top of the dress, under the fold of the neckline, was studded with rhinestone diamonds that sparkled in the light. The skirt was scooped in the front to just below the knee. It flowed out in soft pleats to look like it was moving in waves around her. Her hair was straighter than Harry had ever seen it before, even though it was in an elaborate French twist.
Demzela was in a dress that was dark blue on the top that blended into light blue and white on the bottom. The white lined the hem but made a sharp peak over her left leg. The squared top bodice was held up by two small shoulder straps that blended from dark to light blue. Her dark hair was in some kind of piled bun on her head with one lock hanging off the right side. She grinned at Ron as he stared at her.
"You look…wonder…wonderful, Dem," Ron stuttered out.
"Thank you, Ron," Demzela smiled shyly. She looked over Ron's navy-blue dress robes with light blue piping. "You look great, too."
"Thanks," Ron smiled. He extended his arm to her. "Shall we?"
"Yes," Demzela grinned. "Oh! Do mind if Hermione walks down with us?"
"Of course not," Ron nodded with a look at Hermione. "She is one of my best friends after all."
Harry noticed the slight frown cross Hermione's mouth as she followed them out.
As they were leaving, Rose descended the stairs with a big grin for her brother and godbrother. She was in a sweetheart topped dress with a tight bodice that sparkled with silver, gold, and a few red sequins. The straps were silver to match the dress at the waist to the knee. From the ankle to the knee were gold sequins sprinkled with silver and red. Her red hair was in three thin braids that wrapped around her head.
"Wow, sis!" Harry looked at her with wide eyes. "You look great!"
"Thanks, Harry," Rose grinned. "Ginny will be down in a mo."
"Permit me to escort you to your date, godsister?" Neville extended his arm.
"Thanks, Neville," Rose nodded. She grinned as she turned to Harry for a second. "But wait for a minute. I want to see Harry's face when he sees Ginny. I'm sure it will be a glowing moment."
Harry frowned at his sister slightly but had to turn as he heard movement on the stairs again. His breath caught in his throat as Ginny came into full view. Ginny was in a shimmering satin emerald green ball gown with a deep V-cut bodice. The straps were beaded with small white sequins on emerald green. The dress was all one color except for the large sequins' snowflake over the right side bottom of the dress. Her red hair hung mostly in a loose ponytail down her back. There was one braid down the middle of the flowing ponytail from the sides of her head, with two curly locks framing her face. Ginny smiled as Harry swallowed, trying to form words. Rose giggled, breaking Harry out of his stupor.
"You look absolutely gorgeous, Gin," Harry broke into a wide smile.
"Why, thank you," Ginny grinned smugly at him before taking in his appearance. Harry was in simple black dress robes with emerald green piping and tie. Ginny's breath hitched as she noticed how the piping and tie made Harry's eyes stand out. "You look quite handsome yourself."
"Thanks," Harry smiled as he extended his arm to her. "Shall we, milady?"
"Why, yes, milord," Ginny giggled. Rose rolled her eyes with a shake of her head.
They left the Common Room for the Entrance Hall, the boys helping the girls out of the Portrait Hole. As they walked, they saw several other couples walking slowly down the stairs. They waved to several of their classmates, complimenting each on how they looked. It took almost twice the usual time to walk down because of the slow pace they were walking. As they rounded the last corner, they could hear the loud chatter of many voices in the Entrance Hall.
Almost all chatter stopped as they descended the last staircase. There were those students who were staring with their mouths hanging open and those few that were sneering, like Malfoy. Ernie met them at the bottom of the stairs. Rose thanked Neville for escorting her down as she took Ernie's arm. Ginny pointed out where Cedric was standing. Harry steered them in that direction as Neville went to the main doors to meet Fleur.
As Harry and Ginny approached Cedric, he turned with a smile and nod. On his arm was Cho Chang. As Harry looked at her, he wondered what had ever possessed him into having any kind of crush on Cho. It was so odd. Harry shrugged those thoughts away as Cedric greeted him with a handshake. Before most of the greetings could be spoken, Neville and Fleur joined them.
Fleur looked more stunning than usual in her white dress with a silver snowflake pattern along the bottom and bodice.
"You look great, cousin," Harry smiled. Fleur nodded with a smile as she greeted Harry and Ginny with a kiss on each of their cheeks.
"Zhiz iz vhere ve are gathering?" Krum asked as he walked up behind Harry.
"I guess so…" Cedric trailed off. Harry saw his eyes widen. He turned to see Hermione on Krum's arm.
"The mystery date is finally solved," Ginny grinned at Hermione.
"Yes, well," Hermione blushed. "I didn't think anyone would believe me if…"
"Ah, splendid!" McGonagall cut Hermione off. "You're all here." She paused as she took in everyone's appearance, not really looking at who was there. "You all look stunning." She huffed a deep breath. "Now, the rest of the students shall proceed you into the Great Hall. Miss Delacour, Mr. Longbottom…" She paused again, blinking rapidly as she cleared her throat slightly. "You will lead the Champions in. Please, pause by the door for pictures to be taken, then proceed to the front table. Mr. Krum, Miss…" McGonagall stopped to do a double take with wide eyes. "Miss Granger, you will be next. Mr. Diggory, you and Miss Chang will follow them. Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley, since Mr. Potter is in first place, you will enter last."
"Yes, Professor," Hermione nodded.
"My word, but Gryffindor is well represented among the Champions," McGonagall breathed. She hurried away to start the entrance of the other students.
"Potter," Cedric whispered quietly. Harry turned. "Thanks for the tip about the dragons."
"No worries," Harry waved it off.
"Water is the key to the egg," Cedric nodded.
"Water?" Harry asked confused. Cedric just nodded before returning his attention to Cho.
"We'll figure it out later, love," Ginny nudged him as the rest of the students were entering the Great Hall. Harry nodded, taking a deep breath. "What are you hiding?" Ginny asked with a suspicious look.
"You'll just have to wait and see," Harry grinned.
Ginny gave him a pouting lip, but Harry only smiled as he reinforced his mental shields against Ginny trying to feel what it was he was hiding. They fell in line as the last of the students entered the Great Hall. Cedric turned slightly, giving them a smile and a nod.
As the doors opened again for Neville and Fleur, Harry and Ginny heard thunderous applause. The camera flashes were dazzling to the eyes, even as far back as Harry and Ginny were in the line of Champions. Harry heard loud gasps over the applause as Krum and Hermione stepped into the doorway. Harry took a calming deep breath. He really hated to be put on display like this, but he knew there was more to this evening than just him being one of the four Champions. It wasn't hard to forget about the publicity and fame of it all as he felt Ginny on his arm, in his mind, a part of his very being. This night was about her, not him, and he was determined that Ginny had a wonderful evening, even if he had to deal with whatever press the old man had arranged to cover the Yule Ball.
Cedric and Cho stepped through the doors. Harry took another deep breath as he led Ginny to the door. As the cameras flashed, Harry thought of making Ginny happy. Thinking those thoughts, he gave the camera a genuine smile. As the flashes subsided, Harry could see that there were only three cameramen. One happened to be Colin Creevey. Harry wondered how Colin was able to attend the Ball since he was only a third year. Forcing those thoughts out of his mind for the moment, Harry walked to the front table.
When Harry and Ginny neared the table, they could see James and Lily standing on the far side of the table. Next to them were Percy and Penelope Clearwater. Harry wondered where Mr. Crouch was. Crouch was the only judge not present at the table. Ginny squeezed his arm slightly to get Harry to focus on reaching the table before starting to question anything. As they took their seats, Dumbledore remained standing.
"Good evening, and welcome to the Yule Ball," he started as he faced the rest of the round tables scattered around the Great Hall. "For this evening, your dinner is made to order from the items listed on your menus. You need only speak to your menus to order your dinner. Please, enjoy your meals."
After Dumbledore returned to his seat, Harry and Ginny noticed the unhappy look on his face as he glanced at James and Lily. Harry also saw the glares his parents shot back at the Headmaster before they turned to Harry and Ginny.
"You both look wonderful," Lily smiled. Harry smiled, blushing slightly.
"Thank you, Lily. So do you," Ginny grinned. She turned slightly. "Hello, Percy."
"Good evening, Ginevra," Percy answered, pompous as ever.
"What are you doing here?" Ginny asked before Harry could.
"I am filling in for Mr. Crouch," Percy answered. "He has been under the weather for a few weeks now." Ginny nodded before turning back to her menu.
"What about you, mum? Why are you and dad here?" Harry asked.
"Oh, we volunteered to be chaperones for this evening," James smiled. "Plus, we have the portkey for everyone to come to the Manor after the Ball."
Harry caught his father giving Percy a strange look before he turned back to his menu. After he had ordered his meal, Harry turned his attention back to Ginny. She was talking with his mother, quietly. Harry caught some of the conversations as Lily frowned slightly at Dumbledore. Harry looked around at the other tables. He was curious to see what the other students were doing as they waited for their meals to arrive.
Ron and Demzela were sitting with several other Gryffindors, including Fred and George. Seamus and Dean were there with their dates of the Patil twins. Lavender Brown was sitting there next to Justin Finch-Fletchly. Harry turned to see Colin sitting at a table with a small sign labeled "Press" with one of Ginny's other dormmates. As Harry turned, he noticed most tables were only one House, or with only one other House represented. Most of Ravenclaw were sitting close together, along with most of Hufflepuff. Rose was sitting with Ernie at one of the Hufflepuff tables. That table was also the closest to the Gryffindor tables.
Harry noticed the Slytherins were all at three tables, farthest away from both the Gryffindor tables and the front table. Malfoy happened to look up as Harry spotted him. His sneer was in full bloom as Malfoy stared back at Harry. Then Harry noticed Snape staring at Lily. His normal sallow complexion was bone white; his mouth slightly agape. Suddenly, Snape looked away with a sad look. Harry turned to see his parents glaring in Snape's direction. Harry wondered what else was going on besides his father's old rivalry with Snape.
Lily looked at him with a slight shake of her head. Harry couldn't make any kind of reply or comment as the food arrived. Ginny smiled at him before they started eating. Harry tried not to get too lost in her eyes, knowing Ginny was trying to pry his surprise out of him. Since they had broken Dumbledore's block on their soul bond, it was hard for either of them to keep a secret from the other. Christmas shopping had been a chore, but Harry found a way with Lily's help.
As they finished their dessert, Dumbledore stood again.
"I hope you all enjoyed your meals," he nodded. "It is now time to burn off some of those calories." He turned to the front table. "Champions, if you will…"
Harry stood quickly, extending his hand to Ginny with a slight bow, just like his father had told him to do. Ginny smiled as she took his hand. Harry led her to the far corner of the dancefloor, waiting for the other Champions to take their places. As the music started, Harry took Ginny by the waist and hand, leading her in the waltz Lily had made him practice over and over during his lessons.
"This is what you were hiding, wasn't it?" Ginny grinned as he twirled her out and back to him.
"Yup," Harry smiled. "Mum taught me so I would be ready for this."
"You're not the only one she taught, I see," Ginny commented as she glanced at Neville and Fleur. The French girl was beaming with a slight blush as she danced with Neville.
"Actually, Professor Sprout taught Neville," Harry replied. Ginny looked at him with wide eyes. Harry smirked. "And Professor McGonagall taught Ron."
"Oh, I would have given anything to see that!" Ginny giggled.
"If my dad says it's alright, we can use his Penceive over the Hols, and you can," Harry chuckled. Ginny's eyes lit up like glowing diamonds at that thought.
As the first song ended, the rest of the students, teachers, and chaperons joined the Champions on the dancefloor. Harry and Ginny spotted James and Lily close to them. Harry gave his mother a "thank you" for teaching him. Lily grinned with a nod. Harry noticed Ron and Demzela on the dancefloor as well. He steered Ginny so they could see how seriously Ron had taken his dance lessons. Harry and Ginny were impressed as Ron led Demzela in the dance.
After the ninth song, Harry and Ginny decided it was time for a break. They made their way over to the Gryffindor table to sit with their friends. Ron and Demzela were sitting there with Neville and Fleur. They greeted everyone with a smile as they sat down.
"I'm impressed, Ron," Ginny told him with a smug look.
"Yeah, well, Harry's to thank for making Neville and me learn," Ron shrugged.
"And votre teachers deed a vonderful job," Fleur grinned.
"I'll say," Demzela nodded still in a bit of shock. No one else could reply as Hermione and Krum came over to the table.
"How's your evening going so far?" Hermione asked. "Glowingly, I hope."
Harry and Ginny frowned at her slightly. They exchanged a look. The more they tried to hide their bond from Hermione and Rose, the more questions and comments the two of them made.
"Not bad," Ron shrugged. He turned to Demzela. "You wanna have another go out there?"
"Sure," she smiled. They stood, heading for the dancefloor. Hermione looked after him in confusion.
"Hey, all," Rose breathed as she flopped down next to Ginny.
"Hey, sis," Harry smiled. "Hi, Ernie."
"Hello, Harry," he nodded. "I must compliment your parents on teaching you two how to dance. Your sister is a superb dancer."
"You could tell them yourself," Harry nodded to the dancefloor, "that is if they ever take a break." Ginny and Rose giggled. Harry spotted something on the dance floor that he didn't expect to see. Snape dancing, albeit a little stiffly, with Professor Sinistra. He pointed them out to the table.
"What's he staring at?" Rose asked with an edge to her voice.
"Looks like he's staring at mum," Harry commented darkly.
Suddenly, there was a loud commotion from the other side of the dancefloor. Malfoy was cringing as Pansy Parkinson had sprouted a great tuft of hair on her back that was slowly creeping around to her front. Those behind her were giggling, but backing off a bit. Those in front were cringing and keeping their distance. Harry spotted Fred and George by the drink table close to where Malfoy and Pansy were dancing. They were pointedly ignoring the commotion around them, making Harry sure they had been behind the prank.
Pansy was oblivious to anything going on until the hair reached her forearms. She then let out a blood-curdling scream, running for the doors. Harry noticed Fred and George had moved well away from the scene to ensure they wouldn't be caught. The rest of the Great Hall burst into laughter as Pansy was making her dash out. Malfoy cringed again before running after his date.
"That was original," James whispered to Harry, making him jump slightly. "Who pulled it?"
"Probably Fred and George," Harry whispered back. Lily swatted both of them.
"Don't get any ideas," Lily warned James. He mocked hurt. Lily rolled her eyes before turning to Harry and Rose. "That goes for you two, as well."
Harry and Rose held their hands up. Ginny giggled.
"You rested enough, Gin?" Harry smiled.
"Yes," Ginny grinned.
Harry and Ginny spent most of the rest of the evening on the dancefloor. They waltzed to the faster music but held each other close during the slower songs. They traded kisses now and then during those slow songs. Harry noticed his parents were dancing to most of the slow songs. He grinned to know they were still as much in love with each other as he had heard before they returned.
"With our bond, we'll be like them, too," Ginny whispered into his thoughts.
"How did…?" Harry looked at her strangely for a second, then realized Ginny must have sensed his thoughts through their bond. Harry grinned again, before pulling Ginny closer. "Without a doubt." He leaned in, placing a soft kiss on her lips.
All too soon, the last dance was announced. Harry knew it was because he and Ginny were having such a great evening that time seemed to fly by. The last dance was a slow song, much to Harry's liking. He held onto Ginny just a little tighter than before. Ginny grinned at him. The song was starting to wind down, as Harry leaned in to capture Ginny's lips in a deep kiss.
Harry felt a tap on his shoulder. He reluctantly broke his kiss with Ginny to look up. He realized the music had stopped and the rest of the students were leaving. James chuckled as he motioned them to follow him. Harry sighed as he led Ginny toward the door.
"I know," Ginny told him. "I didn't want it to end either."
Harry turned to her with an impish grin. "The Ball or that last kiss?"
Ginny opened her mouth but stopped. "Both," she finally admitted.
Harry chuckled.
They walked in silence behind James and Lily as they climbed the stairs toward Gryffindor Tower. Ernie and Rose were leading the group up the stairs. Harry glanced back to see Ron and Demzela walking behind them, followed by Neville and Hermione. As they neared the Fat Lady's portrait, Ernie stopped, placing a light kiss on Rose's blushing cheek, before he turned to head for the Hufflepuff Common Room. He gave Harry and Ginny a nod as he passed them.
Rose gave the password to open the portrait hole for them. Fred and George were already in the Common Room waiting for them to arrive. Neville wished them all a great Christmas before heading up to the dorm. Ron walked Demzela to the stairs. He bowed, kissing the back of her hand before she went giggling up to her room.
"Nice touch, Ron," James nodded.
"I took what you and Sirius told us to heart," Ron shrugged.
"At least they told you what to do, and didn't encourage what not to do," Lily gave James a look.
"We let them know it was about the ladies, not them," James raised his hands.
"Good," Lily frowned at him slightly. Harry had a feeling it was his mother's way of reminding his father of something he had done in the past. "Alright, everyone," Lily called. "Your things have already been taken to the Manor."
"Gather around," James held out a large, old key made of brass. "This is a special portkey, so you don't have to touch it to be taken. Just be touching either Lily or I."
Harry and Ginny held each other close as they placed their free hands on Lily's arm. Rose and Hermione crowded in on each side of them. Fred, George, and Ron placed their hands on James.
"Ready?" James asked. He looked around seeing all nods. "Take the Potters home."
The next thing Harry felt was a gentle tug in his navel as the Common Room blurred.