HARRY POTTER STORY: Lions in snake den

Part 20

The Great Hall was a vision of enchantment that night, transformed into a realm of magic and celebration. Iridescent fairy lights twinkled above like a starry sky, casting a soft glow over the polished wooden floor. Silken banners in the colors of all four houses draped elegantly from the ceiling, flanked by fragrant floral arrangements that adorned each table. The long dining tables had vanished, replaced by clusters of round tables, each set for intimate gatherings, the air thick with laughter and anticipation.

Harry stood at the entrance alongside his date, Daphne. He felt both nervous and excited, dressed in a tailored black suit that contrasted sharply with the emerald tie, which matched Daphne's exquisite gown. The fabric shimmered as she moved, her long, sleek hair cascading down her shoulders and catching the light with every slight turn. They had practiced their dance and now, as they entered the hall, Harry felt a mix of pride and anxiety.

"Ready?" Daphne asked, her green eyes sparkling with mischief. "Ready as I'll ever be," he replied, flashing her a grin. As they stepped into the hall, whispers rippled through the crowd, each student taking a moment to process Harry's choice of date. Harry's gaze drifted toward the far end of the hall, where Hermione was entering with Draco Malfoy, both looking splendid in their attire. Hermione wore a deep green dress that beautifully complemented her features, while Draco was in a sharp black suit, a confident smirk plastered on his face.
Harry felt a pang of mixed emotions at the sight of his sister. He felt happy for her but if Draco dared to break her heart he would be in for a world of pain.

He quickly shook off the thought as he and Daphne made their way further into the hall.
"Did you really ask Daphne?" Hermione's voice rang out as they approached, tinged with surprise and a hint of amusement.
"Of course," Harry replied, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "She taught me how to dance." "Of course she did," Draco interjected smoothly, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "You've always needed a bit of help with that, haven't you, Hadrian?"
Laughter erupted from their friends, and even Harry managed a chuckle. The camaraderie of their group felt warm and comforting.

He caught sight of Theo, leading Luna Lovegood, who was twirling joyfully in a whimsical dress that danced with her every move. The radish earrings she wore bounced playfully, adding to her ethereal presence. Blaise and Tracey arrived next, engaged in lighthearted banter as they made their way through the crowd, their chemistry evident as they exchanged teasing glances. The atmosphere was vibrant, charged with the excitement of the evening.

However, the mood shifted abruptly as Ron Weasley and Ginny entered, Ron's expression morphing from disbelief to annoyance as he caught sight of Harry and Daphne together. "What's this? Harry's date is a Slytherin?" Ron exclaimed loudly, his voice cutting through the chatter. Ginny chimed in, her tone filled with mockery. "Didn't see that one coming! I mean, what's wrong with you, Harry?" Hermione shot Ron a warning look, but it was too late; their bickering had already attracted the attention of nearby students. Harry felt a flush of irritation rise in his chest. He opened his mouth to respond, but before he could find the words, Dumbledore's arrival silenced the murmurs.

"Welcome, welcome!" Dumbledore's voice rang out, cheerful and warm, as he stepped into the spotlight. "Tonight, we celebrate friendship, unity, and—of course—fine dancing!" The headmaster's presence was magnetic, instantly soothing the bubbling drama in the hall. His blue eyes twinkled as he swept his gaze across the students. "Let's remember, dear students, that it is not where we come from that defines us, but where we are going together. So let us enjoy this splendid evening!" As the music swelled, filling the air with a vibrant rhythm, Harry took Daphne's hand, leading her to the dance floor. Their feet moved in sync as they glided across the polished wood, laughter bubbling between them, momentarily distracting him from the noise of discontent.