The big event was to be announced by Headmaster Dippet that evening. The entire student body was present at dinner, including Denin, whose arm was fully healed with the touch of Madam Pomfrey's wand.
"What do you think it's going to be?" Kyo asked. I could tell she was excited, but then again, who wasn't. Sirius chuckled and then replied.
"Well, we can rule out quiddich, Triwizard Tournament –" he started.
"Dueling", I cut in, remembering the way-too-high-on-sugar girl I had seen earlier.
"Ya, Dueling. Anything dangerous is defiantly of the list. Knowing Dippet, we can't expect anything more dangerous than a pillow fight…" Sirius said, muttering the last few words in disgust.
Our conversation was cut short when Headmaster Dippet stood up to speak. The entire room fell to a dead silence as he opened his mouth.
"As you all know, there is to be a special event this year. I am lucky enough to announce that Hogwarts will be hosting-"he paused for a moment for the suspense to sink in. "-a masquerade ball for its students." An explosion of whispers filled the Great Hall. It was only when the Headmaster clapped his hands that the room fell quiet once more.
"You will each receive a letter tonight stating the rules and what character you will be portraying at the ball. The character will reflect your personality and your soul. Now, without further ado, let us eat." The tables filled once again with, food and the students dug in, still whispering about the ball.
"Who do you think we'll be going as?" Remus asked, looking positively frightened. Why he would be frightened at a time like this had me puzzled. It didn't concern me for long, as Nearly Headless Nick popped up through the hot wings platter at that exact moment, causing everyone at that part of the table to jump and yell out in fright.
"Nick," I said breathlessly. "Isn't that the second time this week that you've done that? Bloody…"
Nick departed to speak with a teacher I didn't know, and we continued our conversation.
"Well, you're really not supposed to know who your friends are, are you?" Kyo pointed out as the rest of us began eating once more. "Isn't the point to find out how someone really is without the burden of their looks?"
"Lily, you're being smart again. It doesn't suit you." James said, causing the rest of us to laugh and Kyo to roll her eyes.
Soon enough, dinner was over and the student body filtered out of the Great Hall. The Gryffindors were some of the last to leave, and we reached our common room around 8:00, leaving a bit of time for the homework that we had not yet finished. We had all weekend of course, but the weekend was for fun, and you couldn't have fun with homework hanging on your conscience, now could you?
Finally to tired to last the last few words of my essay, I followed Kyo and Lily up to the dormitories for some well-needed rest. Lying on my bed was the letter that the Headmaster had mentioned. The three of us picked up our letters and opened them in unison. I took out the biggest piece of parchment and read the letter to myself.
Dear Miss Perth,
As you may know, Hogwarts is hosting the Masquerade Ball this coming Saturday. The theme of this year's ball is "Muggle Entertainment". Each student will become a character from a Muggle book, show, movie, or play. Your character written on the card that is accompanied with this letter. Please read this letter to the end before you look at your card.
Firstly, we must address the rules. All Hogwarts rules apply to the dance, and if you have any questions about them, all rules in full are posted on the door to Mr. Filch's office. We also ask that your dress robes be coordinated with your character. Please do not put on peasants clothes if your character is royalty.
The cutoff of the ball is midnight, and at the twelfth ringing of the clock, your character will dissolve, and your own face will appear to the student body. You may now look at your card. As a warning, you will change into your character, so any uncomfort you may feel will pass momentarily.
Sincerely,
Hogwarts Staff
I looked down at the envelope and noticed another piece of parchment sticking out of it. I removed it from the envelope and turned it over. Written in gold ink was my character.
Christine
Le Fantom De Le Opera
((This is not the end of "The True Marauders"! I will continue to add chapters as the story grows, so check back here for updates if you've enjoyed this part of the story! As always, reviews are welcome and appreciated!))