[The special takes place far from the main story's timeline. Chapters 904-911 can be skipped without affecting the main plot.]
The Great Hall at Hogwarts had been completely submerged in a tide of red and gold.
Thousands of magical candles had become floating red lanterns. Instead of a gloomy British winter night, the ceiling displayed projections of dazzling fireworks and auspicious clouds from the East.
A rich, mouthwatering aroma filled the air-a blend of Sichuan peppercorns, beef tallow, aged vinegar, and minced garlic, the scent of New Year's Eve woven from authentic Sichuan hot pot and northeastern Chinese dumplings.
The four long tables had been arranged into a huge hollow square, with copper pots bubbling on every table.
"Merlin's red long johns!"
Holding a pair of extra-long magical chopsticks, Ron struggled to pluck a slippery fish ball from the churning pot of red chili oil.
"Harry, the professor's version really does taste better!"
Harry expertly swished a slice of beef tripe up and down in the pot seven times one way and eight the other, speaking without looking up.
"Eat up. Hermione said this is called 'peace year after year.' Besides, this is the special Dragon Blood Tofu edition from Douglas's Select. Eat it, and your magic will skyrocket next year."
"I think Hermione meant that if you splash soup on your robes, your 'peace' will really be in pieces."
Ginny smiled and placed a piece of golden, crispy fried pork in Harry's bowl.
"Look, the professors are coming out!"
The staff table had been transformed into an enormous vermilion stage.
To a deafening crash of gongs and drums, Douglas Holmes strode onto the stage in hanfu embroidered all over with Galleon patterns. Instead of a wand, he held an enormous red microphone.
"Dear wizarding friends, fellow ghosts, and our