The walls of the Great Hall were covered in glittering silver frost, while the ceiling displayed a star-filled night sky. Several hundred sprigs of mistletoe and ivy wreaths hung overhead. It was clear that the Hogwarts professors had put a great deal of effort into the Christmas 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, casually pulling out an empty chair beside him. His meaning was obvious, so Albert sat beside Percy with Katrina.
"I've been promoted. I'm Mr. Crouch's Private Assistant now, and I'm representing him at the Christmas Ball," Percy said proudly.
"Congratulations. I've suddenly realized you have the makings of a workaholic." Albert smiled as he picked up his menu and looked over the dishes.
"Working hard is one of the fastest ways to earn promotion from your superiors." Percy paid no mind to Albert's teasing and continued, "Mr. Crouch is especially good at handling all sorts of matters."
"Do you really think so?"
"What do you mean?"
"You're having good luck right now, but it won't last much longer." After Dumbledore demonstrated by ordering a pork chop, Albert ordered himself some French pan-seared foie gras. Then he said to Katrina beside him, "I suggest you don't order steak. There have been quite a few problems recently. Cattle across Europe may all be affected. Aside from 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 particularly vivid expression.
Katrina glanced at Albert and ordered the French pan-seared foie