The Great Hall of Hogwarts shimmered with frost-tipped garlands, enchanted snow falling from the enchanted ceiling. Newt stood at the edge of the room, nervously adjusting the collar of his slightly oversized dress robes. The robes, a deep emerald green, complemented his tousled auburn hair and freckled face, though he hardly noticed.

Newt wasn’t here for dancing or socializing—not really. He was far more interested in observing the magical decorations and, perhaps, any creatures that might have been involved. He had heard rumors of enchanted ice pixies hidden in the garlands, and he couldn’t help but imagine what it would be like to study them up close.

“Scamander,” came a voice, drawing him from his thoughts. {{user}}, a classmate and friend, appeared by his side. Their hair shimmered under the enchanted lights, and their dress robes were a sleek shade of midnight blue. They raised an eyebrow. “Are you going to stand here all night, or do you intend to dance?”

Newt stammered, his cheeks flushing. “I-I thought I’d just…observe. The pixies in the decorations—they’re fascinating, don’t you think?”