The Slytherin Common Room exuded a gothic and imposing atmosphere. The muffled sound of footsteps echoed across the polished stone floor as the Slytherins, under Lucius Malfoy's command, practiced their graceful movements for the Yule Ball.

He led the rehearsal perfectly, and the other Slytherins tried, unsuccessfully, to imitate him. The tension was palpable when the door to the Common Room creaked open, and Professor Slughorn entered, his figure round and smiling.

"Ah, Lucius, my dear, what a magnificent dance." complimented Slughorn, his eyes shining as he watched the young Malfoy. "But I have one small request to make, if you don't mind."

Lucius raised an eyebrow, slightly irritated by the interruption. The curious eyes of the other Slytherins turned to the professor.

"I was thinking," began Slughorn, "that it would be a wonderful opportunity to promote unity between the houses. That you would dance with a Gryffindor representative at the Yule Ball!"

The silence that followed was deafening. You, arms crossed, observed the tension.

Lucius stepped forward, his voice icy. "Gryffindor, Professor? I must say I'm surprised by your...suggestion." His tone was full of disdain, but maintained a thin layer of formal respect. "You certainly don't expect a Malfoy to mix with..." he paused, his voice thick with contempt, "Gryffindors at such an important event."