The walls of the Great Hall were covered in glittering silver frost, while the ceiling displayed a star-filled night sky. Hundreds of sprigs of mistletoe and wreaths woven from ivy hung overhead. It was easy to see that the Hogwarts professors had put a great deal of effort into this Yule Ball.
Amid Dumbledore and the judges' applause, the champions made their way to the high table.
No one saw any sign of Karkaroff. Mr. Crouch was absent as well, replaced by Albert's acquaintance, Percy Weasley.
Percy smiled and waved at Albert, then casually pulled out an empty chair beside him. His meaning was obvious. Albert sat down next to Percy with Katrina.
"I've been promoted. I'm now Mr. Crouch's personal assistant, and I'm here to represent him at the Yule Ball," Percy said boastfully.
"Congratulations. I've suddenly realized you have the makings of a workaholic." Albert smiled as he picked up his menu and examined the dishes listed on it.
"Working hard is one of the fastest ways to get promoted." Percy paid no attention to Albert's teasing. "Mr. Crouch is very good at handling all sorts of matters."
"Do you really think so?"
"What do you mean?"
"You're having good luck right now, but that won't last much longer." After Dumbledore demonstrated by ordering a pork chop, Albert ordered himself some French pan-seared foie gras. He then said to Katrina beside him, "I'd advise you not to order steak. There have been quite a few problems recently. Cattle throughout Europe may be affected. Other than milk, I don't dare touch anything related to beef now. You could try some foreign cuisine instead. It's a nice experience."
Harry, who had just taken a bite of Hungarian beef stew, immediately wore a rather spectacular expression.
Katrina glanced at Albert and