Tom had been prepared to indulge his Horcrux tonight. He had studied the young Malfoy heir, as he got green with jealousy over all the attention his equal was receiving. Two dances later, he joined them, claiming Harry's as his partner. Barty chose Ron and Severus requested a dance from Hermione. After that, they crashed a conversation between Lucius and Cornelius Fudge. The Lord was apparently irked that his master planned to leave the ball so early. The Dark Lord merely stated, "Since a few of your guests decided to entertain themselves with my equal's chosen follower, it is safe to say that I wish not to dwell in such lewd company."