The Gryffindor Gala | #DRAMIONE ✓

001

HERMOINE

"Thank God you've inherited your Mother's brains."

It wasn't every day that Hermione was invited into Professor Dumbledore's quarters. The grand entrance added an extra buzz in her veins, a mixture of excitement and anxiety to play with her mind. No matter how high her IQ was or how calm she managed to remain in her final exams, a private meeting with Dumbledore was a task no one could attend steadily.

He was waiting expectantly behind his wooden desk, portraits on the walls smiling at Hermione as she entered. Politely, she greeted them in return and tenderly took a seat.

"Good evening, Miss Granger. How are your studies coming along?" Dumbledore started.

It made Hermione nervous, sensing his stalling about whatever matter resulted in her visit. Nonetheless, she pressed her lips into a line and said, "they're a breeze."

It caused him to grin slightly, too. "Of course. I expect nothing less." He fiddled his hands together and met her gaze, soft grey eyes meeting hers. "As you are aware, the ending of your time at Hogwarts is coming to a close, meaning that the renowned graduation dinner is approaching."

Ah yes, the Gala, Hermione thought. It could only mean one thing.

"Hermione Granger, you have been assigned as the valedictorian of your graduating class. Congratulations. I assume you are aware of what else has summoned you to my quarters."

Hermione nodded her head, smiling slightly. "The Gala."

"Indeed." Dumbledore slid forwards a pile of three items: a small jewellery box, a cardboard letter and an envelope with something concealed within.

Hermione took them into her hands, first picking out the cardboard letter. Instead, it was no letter but an invitation. It was different from the other invitations she has obtained during her time at Hogwarts as it was on gold cardboard that shimmered under the candlelight and opened up to present the message.

Along the sides were shimmering foliage, melting into the gold border. The words were elegant, clean cursive that was much more impressive than Hermione's own handwriting. The portrait of an animated lion's head pulled the letter's aesthetic together, the jungle-inspired design giving it a sense of foreboding wildness that would surely be experienced at the event.

It all excited Hermione as she had already begun plotting ideas for the night, including a theme which would make the night more memorable.

The envelope was next in her hands, her eyes glazing over the front and back but failed to show any writings or rules. So politely, she set it aside, setting on asking Dumbledore later.

Next was the jewellery box. It brought back memories of a ring she was given not so long ago, the very same one that she never removed from her finger.

She opened the box delicately, revealing a cluster of gems and diamonds inside. It was a beautiful brooch, a mixture of orange, red and white diamonds in the shape of a lion with a crown. It was a marvellous creation that mesmerised Hermione. But quickly she closed it, afraid she had spent too long admiring its beauty.

Lifting her gaze to Dumbledore, he grinned and motioned his head towards the items in her hands.

"The invitation, the gift and a letter, Hermione. Similar to the Ball, the invitation is for the lucky Wizard – or witch – you wish to have by your side, along with the brooch. However, the brooch must be given by the first dance, but not before you enter the event."