Alicia and Hermione
Hermione had not planned on coming to the gala. However in light of recent events and Harry's concern, she couldn't keep herself away. Hermione had come to learn that observing and interacting with others could often give as much insight into a situation as any academic text.
Dressed in one of the gowns she had offered to Luna Hermione entered the Ministry and after surrendering her wand she made her way to the primary gathering point for the Ministry's guests. Turning, she took a glass of wine from nearby tray and noticed that another hand took a glass at the same time.
"Alicia, how are you this evening," she greeted her former housemate.