Manfred Bulla
March 19, 2008 5:53 AM
(re)Introducing Sonora's quadennial ball! by Manfred Bulla
It was all going to go horribly, horribly wrong. Manfred just knew it as he surreptitiously adjusted his dress robes for the umpteenth time and attempted to both watch the students parading into the hall in their finery while also keeping an eye on Simon and his family. It wasn't that he wasn't grateful that Simon had volunteered his family to provide the music for the ball (and at a reasonable rate too). It was more that he couldn't help remembering the stories he'd heard about them - the ones that didn't involve music. And he couldn't help remembering the last time Regina Pierce had visited Sonora.Best not to think about that, he decided after he'd glanced out the window to assure himself that they weren't about to be inundated in mud. It wasn't quite dark yet, but considering the time of year that was entirely to be expected. The skyline - what little he could see of it - was streaked with the colours of what promised to be a spectacular sunset, and no sign of any kind of threatening cloud. Moving away from the window, Manfred realised that it looked like pretty much everyone had arrived and, he glanced at his watch, it was just about time to get things moving.
The Cascade Hall had been decked out beautifully, he acknowledged as he headed past the staff table and to the stage that had been set up for Simon and his family. There was little, he suspected, that the Prairie Elves wouldn't do for their 'Master Paul Simon' and both the stage and the crowd of elves surrounding it proved that point. Some had to still be in the kitchens, because Tuppy was not one to suffer nonsense lightly and there was still work to be done. Dinner and desert were both on the menu and, as usual, the elves were in charge of both. Manfred moved past a couple, managed not to break into hysterical laughter as he heard one of them muttering an excuse that they were making sure the stage wouldn't fall down, and climbed the stairs to the side of the stage with as much dignity as he could muster.
"Ah, Regina," he said, spotting the matriarch of the California Pierces amongst the others, presumably ordering them about. "You'll have to forgive me, I've got to get this started, but no doubt we'll have a chance to speak later. I believe you've been offered a spot at the staff table?" He moved on, glad of an excuse not to have to play the host (to her, anyhow) at that very moment, and took centre-stage and pulled himself together. It would not go horribly wrong, even if he had to confund the entire crowd to pull that off.
He cleared his throat, pulled out his wand and cast a quick non-verbal spell.
"If you would all be so good as to finish finding your seats..." he left the sentence hanging deliberately, waited for the inevitable increase in sound whilst they did as suggested to ebb and smiled out at the crowd. "Welcome to the Sonora Ball. Dinner will be served shortly, and Groundskeeper Tellerman, Harvey Tellerman and the Nowhere Men will be performing afterwards. I hope our prefects and their dates are ready to start off the dancing! But, before all of this, I have a very important announcement to make. I'm sure our sixth years in particular have been very curious as to who would be our new Head Boy and Head Girl in the coming year. It gives me great pleasure to congratulate and welcome to the stage - no, Mr Baxter, I'm afraid you will not be required. Please take your seat again - Mr Zack Dill of Aladren and Miss Jennifer Zucchero of Crotalus."
He led a round of applause for the two, handing them small interim badges when they came up and - after taking off the sonorus - offering them further words of congratulations and certainty that they would do both their houses and the school proud in the capacity they would be asked to take up the following year.
"You can discuss your duties with the current Head Boy and Head Girl, or myself, the Deputy Headmistress or your Heads of House at any time. I think, however, that now we should get back on with the celebration, so I shall not keep you from your friends and their own chance to congratulate you on the honour that your classmates have awarded you both."
The sonorus was only needed again for a short moment, as Manfred again turned to the crowd. "Dinner should be served-" there was a mild popping noise as dishes and foods far more fancy than the norm appeared on every table. "-now. Enjoy, everyone!"
With a smile and a flick of his wand, Manfred moved back from the front of the stage, nodded to the various Pierces and Tellermans and whatnots and made his way to the table where the majority of the staff were sitting. "Well," he said, "this should be... interesting." He tried not to look as expectant of disaster as he felt. Most of the students weren't little monsters, after all. It was sad how a few bad eggs could ruin everything. Still, with any luck - and much needed intercession - things might remain on track.
With any luck.
With a glance at his empty plate, Manfred looked along the table and spotted what he was looking for. It seemed that Tuppy had responded to his request and made a dish that was perhaps his only fond memory of his grandmother.
"Pass the Maultaschen, please," he asked the next person along. "Er, that one," he pointed to it, to be sure they knew what he was talking about.
Subthreads: Celebrating by Sadi Powell (and a little Toma Valson) with Tarquin Reynolds and Danny Fox, Toma Valson
No way. Wow. by Zack Dill with Zoey Welsh
Fun and Music for All Ages and Breeds by Master Paul Simon Tellerman & the Nowhere Men with Scurry and the Prarie Elves
Oh joy. by Kaylie Brockert
Everyone looks so pretty tonight. by Izabella Santoro
Tag: Anyone in the Dance Party! by Laurie Cider with Josh Warren, Cecily Smythe, Laurie, Renaye and Josh Warren, Zane Cooper, Renaye and some of Josh
Magical-ness Happens by Talitha Cumni with Adam B., Talitha
I'm in a dress... TAG: Jae, ATTN:Elly by Caedence with Jae, Elly Eriksson, Echo Elms (with Brett Hodges), Echo Elms, Irene Liddowe, Echo Elms & Brett Hodges
Awaiting the arrival of the fair lady (TAG: Holly) (nm) by Raoul with Holly Greer
I'm looking for my date, Ms. Zucchero? by Jake Santoro with Jennifer Zucchero, Jennifer
I hope I don't ruin the night (Danae) by Josh Santoro with Danae, Josh
One is the lonliest number by Eavan Valentine with Pepper Jones, Eavan
Is Hannah around? (wotw) by Oliver Abbott with Hannah Laurent, Oliver
Woo! [Tag: Irene] by Brett Hodges with Irene Liddowe, Irene (some input from Warren Twins)
Dancing the 'Tango' by Tally Adams and Chrissy Mathers
Looking for the girl who loves Orange. by Adam Whitney with Dalila Bastet, Adam
Procrastinators of the world, unite! by Jenna Howard
Let's get this party started. (Mere) by Matt Santoro
And quite the (re)Introduction by Kiva Kijewski with Manfred, Kiva
Juuuuuuuust greeeeeeat..... TAG:Alexis by Josiah with Alexis
Well, here we are... by Earl Valentine with Nicoletta Dupree, Earl
Meeting Briony by Saul Pierce with Briony O'Leary
Ready, Princess? WotW by Stephen Baxter with Mia Kerova, Stephen
Ok, let's try this again. Amy? You around? by Geoffrey Spindler with Amber Carey, Geoffrey S.
(re)Attending Sonora's quadennial ball by Bianca Tiblin
39
Manfred Bulla
(re)Introducing Sonora's quadennial ball!
2
Manfred Bulla
1
5
Sadi Powell (and a little Toma Valson)
March 19, 2008 8:01 AM
Celebrating by Sadi Powell (and a little Toma Valson)
It was just as well the ball had finally arrived, Sadi mused, because the level of excitement amongst the students could not possibly reach a greater peak. After half a term of waiting, the inhabitants of Sonora were finally to be rewarded with lavish decorations, a delicious banquet and, of course, live music. It wasn’t an occasion to be missed; indeed the staff table was considerably larger than usual to accommodate certain guests, including the musicians and, more importantly to Sadi, her husband. It was perhaps unfair that students could not invite guests from outside the school whereas the same restriction did not apply to the staff. Nevertheless, Sadi was pleased with the arrangement. It wasn’t the first time that Toma had visited Sonora, but it was certainly his first experience of the school as a whole. He had already expressed his amazement at the number of pupils on a couple of occasions, a view in opposition to the general consensus of the students, who, Sadi had observed, tended to lament the comparatively small population of the student body.The vast majority of the students had congregated in the Hall, and the staff had seated themselves when Headmaster Bulla began his welcome. Sadi applauded with fervour at the announcement of Head Girl; she was delighted that a student from her own House had been elected to represent the students, and was satisfied that Jennifer would be excellent in her duties.
As could be expected, the volume rose once more with the arrival of the food, and Sadi found the euphoria of the students infectious. The banquet laid before them was indeed spectacular; Sadi opted to start with onion tart, whilst Toma opted for salmon en croute. “Is the food always this good?” he asked, after enjoying his first mouthful.
“It’s always good,” Sadi replied, “though not quite so exceptional. The elves outdo themselves for special occasions.” It felt peculiar to be sharing Sonora with her husband, yet wonderful at the same time. “Keep an eye out for the fruit punch – I’ve heard it’s excellent.”
0
Sadi Powell (and a little Toma Valson)
Celebrating
0
Sadi Powell (and a little Toma Valson)
0
5
Zack Dill
March 19, 2008 10:46 AM
No way. Wow. by Zack Dill
Since his RATS test was not until the following year, Zack Dill had a number of different concerns all vying for his attention as the end of the year approached. The first and most important was the sheer number of final projects he had to get finished. It was entirely possible that nine RATS level subjects were entirely too many for even a genius like Zack to handle. Fortunately (or unfortunately since they were his favorites), two of those were independent study as of midterm when Professor McFarlan left and stopped teaching him both Astronomy and Calculus which meant they, at least, didn't have massive end-of-the-year projects coming due.The second thing on his mind was the ball and teaching himself to dance so he didn't embarrass himself in the Prefects' Dance. He'd recruited Zoey's help for that and he was pretty sure it was paying off. This took up all the time he wasn't spending on the projects, which meant his informal research into muggle sciences and practice time with Enterprise were reduced to almost nil. Anne probably wasn't too happy about that, but Zack had priorities and Quidditch, quite frankly, wasn't one of them. Of course, now that he was halfway competent at dancing, he thought he might possibly be a little more graceful on a broom, too, so surely she couldn't complain too much, right?
The last thing that was never far from his mind was something that he couldn't even do anything about. He needed to know who won the Head Boy vote. It had been months ago and still the results weren't announced. He honestly didn't know if the wait would have been easier if he'd gotten a chance to campaign for it and known he'd done everything possible to get as many votes as he could, or if that would have just made him more anxious. As it was, he hadn't realized he wanted the position until he saw his name on the ballot and by then it was far too late to try to recruit votes. He'd just had to rely on his reputation and popularity.
Sure he was a brain and a prefect, but Jake and Stephen were both way more popular than him. He vacillated daily between the certainty that he was obviously the most qualified and the belief that there was no possible way he could have gotten more votes than Stephen. Running for Head Boy was a very exhausting and stressful experience, even if it was already over in all but the final announcement.
And now it was the end of the year. His projects were all finished. His dance skills were as good as they were ever going to get. He had a date and didn't Zoey look absolutely beautiful tonight? Zack practically glowed with pride just to stand next to her.
He couldn't afford really nice robes himself, but he'd managed to find a secondhand set that weren't too shabby and were a nice Alderaanian blue. He'd even put several hours into their repair so now they looked nearly as good as new and with a fresh shower, the careful application of a comb and some hair trimming charms to his head, and an extra close shave before leaving the bathroom, Zack thought he himself looked downright dapper tonight as well.
When Headmaster Bulla got up on the stage and called for everyone's attention, he got Zack's immediately. Zack was not looking forward to dancing in front of the whole school, but he just as certainly didn't want to miss his cue. Zack was practically vibrating with apprehensive tension as he waited for everyone else to settle down, suddenly certain that he'd forgotten everything Zoey and the dance books had taught him.
And then Bulla talked about the prefect dancing and his anxiety only ratcheted higher. He very nearly missed the next sentence, but the words "new Head Boy and Head Girl in the coming year" got his attention back rapidly enough. Zack had studied physics at his table in the library for years now but right now was the first he really understood potential energy. He wondered what his spring constant was. His muscles had to be tightly coiled enough to have one by now.
Stephen apparently had one, too, because he jumped the gun. Zack almost relaxed and very nearly accepted his inevitable loss when he saw the other boy get up to accept the prize, but then Bulla told him to sit back down. A spring? No. Zack was a bomb waiting to go off. If it wasn't Stephen . . .
"Mr. Zack Dill," Bulla said and for the life of him, if Jennifer hadn't also come up to the stage, Zack would have never known who the Head Girl was. He certainly didn't hear the rest of whatever it was the Headmaster said. The bomb had gone off.
Fortunately, he imploded instead of exploded or it could have been really embarrassing. He collapsed back into his seat and for a long moment he could just stare blankly in front of him. His mouth might have worked, trying to make sound, but he wasn't coordinated enough to manage any. After a few false starts, though, he did, under the direction of his friends, get up to his feet and make his way up to the stage.
He was still to stunned by his victory - he was Head Boy! Head Boy! Him! Zack Dill! - to be at all coherent as he accepted the congratulations and badge from the Headmaster and he had no idea what he said to Jennifer to congratulate her, just that he did and it may have been in High Elvish. Quenya seemed to fit the situation at the time, but he admittedly hadn't been working with full mental faculties just then.
He might have skipped or danced or done something equally ridiculous going back to his seat. He just knew his face hurt from smiling so much when dinner was over. His plate had been devoured, though he didn't recall taking a single bite. From the discolorations left behind, it looked like he'd eaten some mashed potatoes, some kind of gooey green salad thing, possibly yams or maybe an orange salad dish, and some kind of meat with gravy.
Feeling a little more aware of himself, he turned his still painfully large smile on Zoey and repeated (repeated? Yes. Almost certainly, he was repeating himself. He didn't care. It bore repeating), "I'm Head Boy." He still sounded surprised to his own ears. Thrilled, too. He touched the badge to make sure it was still there, that he hadn't imagined the whole thing.
Just then the music started up for the first dance, and Zack got to his feet and offered his hand to his date. His date! He had a lovely and wonderful date and he was Head Boy! This was the best day ever. And he'd been so worried about this ball. "May I have this dance?" he asked Zoey formally, though his smile never lessened (he really hoped he didn't look like a complete loon) and he felt about six inches taller than normal. Was he floating? No, no, his feet were still on the ground and his wand was still in its pocket where it should be.
1
Zack Dill
No way. Wow.
40
Zack Dill
0
5
Master Paul Simon Tellerman & the Nowhere Men
March 19, 2008 12:48 PM
Fun and Music for All Ages and Breeds by Master Paul Simon Tellerman & the Nowhere Men
They'd begun arguing over the set list from the moment the Californian troupe arrived. Normally, the Tellermans performed as solo artists and the Nowhere Men played as a four-man band. They had three different styles between them and very few songs that overlapped. Saul had initially been involved as well, arguing against Harvey's set of political songs, but he'd had to leave to get ready and pick up Briony.Regina was no help at all - she wasn't involved in the creative aspects of a concert; she was there for the logistics and making sure everything that was supposed to happen happened. Her only input to the debate was 'Get your set list together already, or I'll pick songs out of a hat for you.' She'd do it, too, Simon knew, and she wouldn't limit the songs to ones they'd practiced.
Harvey was eventually out-voted -- Simon wanted to keep his job after this, after all, and Harvey's songs were so far left even most liberals quaked to hear them. That left them arguing over folk versus rock and magical versus muggle until Regina came over and ordered them to give her the final set list right then or she was making it up out of all Britney Spears songs.
They promised one in five minutes and she went off to consult with the Prairie Elves about lighting and acoustics and by the time she came back, they had a list for her that evenly divided the set into a mix of muggle and magical songs. Most were rock - The Nowhere Men was a band created to mimic and cover the Beatles (the founding members having been four brothers named John, Paul, George, and Ringo) and so were best suited for rock songs. Simon managed to get a few of his favorite country and folk songs into the mix as well, so he and his father would be able to use their banjos for at least a couple of songs.
Then began the fight over who stood where on the stage and who was going to lead sing on which songs. That mostly involved Simon, Harvey, Paul, and John, since Richard's drums were already set up and George didn't sing (except for While My Guitar Gently Weeps but that was a special case and not on the set list).
By the time the Headmaster came up to make his welcomes and announcements, John had relinquished his guitar and had taken up the role of keyboardist on the condition that he and Simon trade places for any Beatles song they played. Harvey, still a little bitter that his songs had been rejected, had conceded to that his voice wasn't as good as it once was and had settled for back-up as long as he got at least four songs over the course of the night - preferably folk or country ones. That left Simon and Paul duking it out for the rest.
While Bulla talked to the assembled students and staff, Regina wheeled over to them and hissed quietly, settling the argument for good, "Paul, this is Paul Simon's school. He has the intro and the first song, and then you both alternate after that. Now, is there anything else that you boys are fighting about or are we finally ready to go? I'd like to get to eat before we start."
There wasn't anything else, and now the food was served, so she ordered them to help get her and her wheelchair off the stage so she could go over to the staff table so she could claim a plate of her own. Once she was on her way there (and hopefully not running over too many first years in the process), the six performers had snagged lighter plates to eat on the stage. As they ate, George looked out over the mass of elves and students and asked, "Where's the pipesqueak?"
Simon's eye roamed over the tables as well, eventually locating the kid. "There," he pointed. "See the red head? That's his date."
"Which one?"
Simon checked that Elly wasn't on Saul's other side, but she was a little further down the table. "The one sitting next to him, idiot."
"I was trying find Saul, moron."
Rolling his eyes and shaking his head, Simon suggested, "Well, there's not that many redheads where I pointed. Look next to all of them until you find him. He's not exactly hard to miss."
"Oh, there. See? In the light blue. He cleaned up nice. The girl's cute, too. She sing?"
Simon shrugged. "Not that Saul's mentioned, and believe me, he never stops talking about her, so probably not."
"Pity. The Singing Witch Wenches were hoping for some new blood."
Richard tossed a piece of pineapple at Harvey. "Saul's still got a few years. Jumping the gun a little early, trying to recruit his girlfriend into the family business already, aren't you?"
Harvey spread his hands, "Don't tell me that. I'm just askin' 'cause my wife wanted to know. What about fortune telling? She any good at palm reading or crystal balls?" Richard hoisted another pineapple piece warningly and Harvey held up his hands in surrender, "Okay, okay, but when his mom asks, I'm blaming you if I don't have an answer for her."
"Looks like they're finishing up. You wanna made the intro, Simon?" John asked, having been watching the audience rather than his family members.
"Sure," Simon said and a couple of elves appeared immediately at his signal to clear away the bands' plates.
He moved to the center of the stage and cast sonorus on himself before clearing his throat to get everyone's attention. "Hello, everyone. I'm going to repeat Headmaster Bulla, and say welcome, again, to the Sonora Ball. Finish up your dinner if you're not done, but we'll be starting the music now, so if we could have the Prefects come out to the dance floor to start the night off?"
He waited for the prefects to start making their way to the floor before nodding at Richard. He started a light beat that was easy to talk over. "We'll be playing a mix of magical and muggle songs this evening. If you've got specific requests, talk to that lady right there in the wheelchair," that pretty much singled out Regina without any chance of confusion, "and she'll get it into our set. Otherwise, sit back and enjoy. I'm Paul Simon Tellerman, Sonora's very own groundskeeper, that's my dad, Harvey Tellerman, on the guitar, and my cousins, the Nowhere Men: John Silver on the keyboard, Paul Silver on the other guitar, George Silver on the bass, and Ringo Silver on the drums. And now, put your hands together, for Sonora's Prefects."
Harvey ran a riff on his guitar, and then they were off, playing the first song of the night: a popular wizarding piece that they'd eventually agreed would work well as the kick-off song at a ball for a school of magical crafts.
1
Master Paul Simon Tellerman & the Nowhere Men
Fun and Music for All Ages and Breeds
14
Master Paul Simon Tellerman & the Nowhere Men
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5
Zoey Welsh
March 19, 2008 6:38 PM
Yes way, Definitely wow by Zoey Welsh
Zoey stood nervously beside Zack when they entered into the hall. She didn't know why she was suddenly nervous, she really didn't have any reason to be. And yet, she was. It might have been the dress that she was wearing that was currently making her feel rather self-conscious. But her mother had said that the white would look best with her fair features and red hair while the length wouldn't make her seem like she had too much height on her. She was glad that she had decided to wear flats for the ball, not only to help Zack with his obvious dislike for her height, but because if they ended up dancing quite a bit, Zoey wouldn't have to worry tripping on her heels or her feet hurting.
Her nerves might also be the due to the fact that she would have to dance with Zack right infront of the rest of the school. It wasn't that she think they'd be terrible at it. After all, the two of them had been practicing for quite some time and even though Zack wasn't the most graceful of people on his toes, they had managed alright. But, she was more nervous over the fact that people would be specifically watching them for at least one dance. If everyone were out on the floor she wouldn't have to worry so much because they'd all be preoccupied with their dance partners, but... the first dance was just for Prefects and their dates.
Ah well, the Headmaster was talking, it was better if Zoey didn't think about it for now lest Zack become embarrassed with her later if her worries overcame her ability to dance. Zoey sat beside Zack, nervously playing with a red curl (she had opted to leave her hair down since she had no idea what to do with it or anyone to ask) while she listened to the Headmaster speak. She had forgotten about the Head Boy and Girl vote. It felt like ages ago when they had done it. Her eyes flickered over to Stephen for a brief moment as he moved towards the stage and Headmaster Bulla brought the attention onto him before suddenly turning full onto Zack when he was named Head Boy.
A bright smile crossed her features, genuinely happy for her friend/date for making it. "Congratulations, Zack!" Zoey exclaimed, lightly patting his arm in affection. Zack seemed completely overwhelmed by the news and merely sat there like a deer in headlights. "Go on Zack, get up there." Zoey stated, lightly nudging him. She clapped when Zack finally moved and received his Head Boy prizes. Zoey hoped he didn't trip on anything on the way to the stage and back again. She didn't want for him to ruin his good cheer due to something embarrassing. But, he managed alright and definitely seemed happy with the news.
By now, the food had arrived and Zoey ate slowly, careful not to drop anything onto her dress. She was just about halfway through her meal when Zack spoke to her, repeating the news of his new status. Setting her fork down, Zoey laughed lightly, "Really? I had no idea." She teased. The music started and Zoey tensed at the sound. It meant it was time for them to dance. Zoey felt her face heat up at the reminder that they were about to be on public display.
She glanced at his offered hand and then up at his face. He seemed so happy. Returning (albeit, not as large) the smile, Zoey took his hand and stood up, "Of course, lead the way, Head Boy."
6
Zoey Welsh
Yes way, Definitely wow
39
Zoey Welsh
0
5
Kaylie Brockert
March 19, 2008 6:48 PM
Oh joy. by Kaylie Brockert
Kaylie pushed the linguini around on her plate. She wasn't especially hungry and she really didn't want to be here at all. As soon as she was done with the opening dance, she was out of there. There was no reason for Kaylie to stay. She didn't have a date or anyone to hang out with. If she wasn't obligated to be so, she wouldn't be there.Now all that Kaylie was able to think of was how she was going to be publically humiliated in very short order. For starters, she couldn't dance, period. Secondly, she didn't have anyone to dance with . There were boys without dates, but most of them were way younger than Kaylie was.
At this point though, she would take just about anyone. Even dancing with a first year had to be better than dancing alone. It really wasn't fair that prefects were required to have dates when there simply were not enough guys to go around. All the fifth and sixth year guys had been taken. Kaylie wouldn't have really cared that much about having a date if she didn't have to lead off the dance, seeing as lots of girls were there alone. (Except, of course, then she'd be in her room or the library or something and not here.)
Sighing, Kaylie brought her goblet of water to her mouth and took a sip, suddenly understanding a little more her cousin's need for something a bit stronger. Not that she would do that . She felt trapped. There was honestly nothing at all that she could do. Kaylie wasn't about to leave and not do what she was required to do as prefect. Still, how was she supposed to do it alone? She had never so desperately wanted to escape a place and situation in her life, including CATS.
Someone approached her and Kaylie tensed up. Were they going to rub it in her face?
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Kaylie Brockert
Oh joy.
43
Kaylie Brockert
0
5
Zack Dill
March 20, 2008 10:46 AM
This is real, right? by Zack Dill
Zack's smile couldn't get any larger but he tried anyway when she called him Head Boy. He led her over to the dance floor, warning her along the way, "I don't know if it's going to help or hinder my dancing, but I think you should know I can't feel my feet right now." He stumbled for half a step before recovering as it hit him all over again. "Great Merlin the Maker, I'm Head Boy, Zoey!" He laughed in joyful amazement.It was fortunate that they'd reached the dance floor at that point because he did a little spin-thing that probably would have looked silly otherwise. Offering his hand to her, he invited her to take the last step to join him on the floor.
He was completely oblivious to anybody who might be watching them. He paid only enough attention to the band to keep to something resembling the same rhythm. He didn't even notice the height difference as he and Zoey moved closer together (that was, at least in part, because he now considered it normal after all their practicing).
He was entirely preoccupied by his Head Boy-ship and one other thing that was impossible to ignore at this close distance. "You look really pretty tonight," he blurted out, unable to keep the increasingly obvious thought to himself for another moment.
1
Zack Dill
This is real, right?
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Zack Dill
0
5
Zoey
March 21, 2008 1:10 AM
I hope so by Zoey
Zoey wondered briefly if, for the entire night, Zack was going to repeat the news of his new status to her. She couldn't really blame him for being excited, and she was happy for him, but at the current moment she was more concerned with tripping on the hem of her dress than anything else. The whole point of him asking her was for this part of the evening afterall and it would be rude of her if she completely flubbed it up for him. Still, when he repeated his happiness to her about being made Head Boy, Zoey smiled estatically back at him, "Of course you are. Did you have your doubts?" She questioned as she walked.She giggled when he spun, he certainly was completely happy with the situation. Probably for the best, Zoey didn't want to think about how he would be acting if he hadn't made Head Boy. Zoey took his offered hand once more and entered the dance floor with a slight blush to her freckled skin. She was almost certain that people were staring at them now. She wasn't sure why she didn't really think about everyone else when she had first accepted his proposal. Zoey was never one for the spotlight. But, it was too late to back out now and Zack seemed at ease with the current situation. Hopefully, Zoey could forget about them and just think about the music.
Zoey placed her hands on his shoulders, "Okay, just like we practiced." Zoey mumbled to Zack, trying not to look at her feet since she actually did know how to dance, but was letting her nerves get the better of her.
"You look really pretty tonight"
Her blush deepened at his compliment. He had told her once before that he thought she looked pretty, but it seemed much different now than back then. "Thank you. You look really good too." She told him, smiling at him.
6
Zoey
I hope so
39
Zoey
0
5
Izabella Santoro
March 21, 2008 3:17 PM
Everyone looks so pretty tonight. by Izabella Santoro
Bella had stood infront of her mirror perfecting her 'Ball' look for awhile. It was probably a good thing that she had started to get ready two hours prior to the start of the dance because she had used up every second of those two hours. Showering, drying, make-up, her hair, and then, finally, the finishing touches to her gown. She wore the same style of dress that she had worn to Paco's wedding. Though she was still hesitant to wear a strapless, Sofia had told her because of the shape of her body, Bella looked best in this than she would in anything else.
Now looking at herself in the mirror, Bella had to agree with her sister. The dress was fitted around her waist, showing off her curves and landed at her knees to give her the illusion of being taller than she actually was. She was still uncertain about the bow, but figured, the dress still made her look hot even if it was only in black and white. Slipping into her shoes, Bella made her way to the door of her dorm, hoping that she hadn't kept Ben waiting for too long.
She found him easily enough when she reached the commonroom and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "You look sexy tonight, Sleepy-Do." Bella complimented when she stepped back to give him a proper look over. "Ready?" Not waiting for an answer, Bella took ahold of his hand and led the way out of the commonroom.
When they reached the hall, Bella gave a delighted sound of approval as she entered the hall. It didn't even look like the same hall for when they ate their meals. The Prairie Elves had done a splendid job with recreating the Hall. Her dark eyes surveyed the room and grinned widely at the band standing on stage. "Look Ben, a live band! You have to dance with me tonight." Bella declared as she manuevered through the people and found herself a seat at a table. She wasn't really sure if they had assigned tables or not, but couldn't find anything that indicated if they did.
She glanced around the hall in search of her brothers. She found Jake easily enough with his girlfriend. The twins were a bit harder to spot, but when she eventually did, she smiled in amusement at the two of them. They were like apples and oranges. Matt with his loud personality and affection for blondes and Josh with his quiet disposition and attraction to brunettes. If they weren't twins, one would wonder why they were friends with each other at all.
The Headmaster began talking and Bella's attention was diverted away from her little brothers. Since she was neither a Prefect or a 6th year, his speech really had nothing to do with her, but she did clap loudly for Jennifer and for Zack when they were named Head Boy and Girl. She knew Zack from the time when she was on the Quidditch team, but more than that, he was an Aladren. Jennifer, she would support if only because Jake was so infactuated by the girl.
The food arrived shortly after the anouncement and Bella looked down at it almost as though surprised by it's arrival. Bella had lost a total of 10 pounds since coming back to Sonora after midterm. At first, it had been on purpose, but on her small frame, ten pounds was noticeable on her frame and Bella hadn't really liked how she had looked. Even still, it was hard for her to want to eat in fear of actually becoming something that Ben wasn't attracted to any longer.
Taking little bites of her delicious food, Bella turned to Ben, "You know the concert thing in two years?" She asked him. "I think we should do that together. It would be fun."
6
Izabella Santoro
Everyone looks so pretty tonight.
57
Izabella Santoro
0
5
Laurie Cider
March 23, 2008 5:19 AM
Tag: Anyone in the Dance Party! by Laurie Cider
The day lingered, irritatingly, like a late spring cold that threatened to impose house arrest during the best summer months. Her fingers, unlike their typical habit of resting across the opposing wrist, developed twitches of impatience and pulled and tugged along the hem of her t-shirt. Her feet tapped, staccato, when crossed, when flat against the floor, and even as she laid, on her back, shoeless, on her bed, waiting for the clock to finally approach a respectable enough hour to consider getting Ready. Oh, everything was already prepared. It was her way, after all, to plan ahead, to write out a mental outline, and then commit it to paper. Her dress, with a few minor additions, had been very kindly pressed by an over eager prairie-elf. A brand new pair of panty hose waited, folded, on top of her newly polished black mary-janes. Even the curlers for her hair were neatly arranged on her night table; she had practiced the heating charm times innumerable during the past few weeks.Now there was only the waiting. And the nerves.
The nervousness surprised her. Laurie had thought, by now, that the jitters would have passed. She no longer needed to fear the what-ifs, the possibles that might exist behind Talen’s invitation to the dance. And yet . . . yet there was still something that tickled at her mind, that edged behind her normally linear thoughts. There was some greater sentiment that grew there, and that even she could consciously recognize as something she did not want to acknowledge or understand. It was all part of that New World her mom was always mentioning, something having to do with her being twelve now and practically teenager- which in turn, as her dad would insist, was essentially an adult. Larger feelings and considerations, dreams and responsibilities- a whole world that really was new when compared to what she lived on a daily basis.
Laurie, when she saw herself each morning in the mirror, could still only see what was there a year before, and a year before that. There was really only herself, and she couldn’t see age changing that, even if her parents continued to forecast some great Change that should arrive. Even her oldest brother had started on with it, talking some rubbish about his new girlfriend, and how-
Her eyes flew open with a start; instantly, her gaze fell back down to the wind-up alarm clock that laid at the crook of her arm. Two seconds later, and she was off her bed, jerking her socks off as she went. Somehow, someway, two hours had disappeared, and now, according to her timetable, she was running late. She paid no mind to her roommates, who were also in various stages of preparation; she gave a mental thank-you that she had thought to paint her nails (green, shade #05779) before breakfast that morning. Her jeans and t-shirt fell way once she tripped into the bathroom, reaching for her toothbrush as she went. Her dress waited for her on a hanger, delicately posed for easy donning. She dashed back into the main room, grabbed her curlers and wand, and ran back again, this time for the mirror. She had compromised when it came to how to do her hair: the curls would add some wave, and then a black barrette would pull back her bangs in a quasi-half ponytail.
Laurie was almost surprised when at last her preparation came to an end. Despite the late start, she was more than early. She gave her reflection a crooked smile. Cecily’s malachite necklace was exactly the right addition, she decided. She finished the look with a dab of the only make-up like item she had: a nameless brand of lip balm. Now, there was only getting to the Cascade Hall and claiming a table for her group.
The Hall was always something to behold, but on this night, it was something else altogether. Her mouth fell open into an ‘o’ and she lingered by the entrance far longer than necessary. Most of the professors had already arrived; some of whom she could hardly recognize. It struck her suddenly that her professors were more than teachers- they were also humans, and some of them fairly decent looking when dressed up. She arrived at a table centered along the outskirts of a wide area marked for dancing- behind it was a newly arrived stage, plainly organized for a band of some sort to take stations at. (She had heard numerous rumors that it would be the groundskeeper and his family performing.) She was still gawking rather noticeably as she landed into her seat, unaware that a pair of hands had pulled it out for her.
It wasn’t until her eyes finally came to rest back to her more immediate surrounds that Laurie realized she wasn’t the only one in her party to arrive early. “Oh, sorry; hi! The others should be here in a bit.” Her hand rose to gesture at their surroundings, her voice still tinged with awe. “I never imagined the Hall could look quite like this; did you?”
0
Laurie Cider
Tag: Anyone in the Dance Party!
0
Laurie Cider
0
5
Talitha Cumni
March 23, 2008 7:45 AM
Magical-ness Happens by Talitha Cumni
Talitha’s dimples deepened as her smile grew. She felt a wave of relief wash over her. She could tell by Adam’s expression that his complement was genuine. She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with happiness. Adam looked very elegant in his dress robes. Talitha could see that he had taken great care to look especially nice. She was also staring. Stop it, you look like an idiot! she chided herself.“Thank you,” Talitha shook herself from the spell. “You look very handsome yourself.”
She laid her hand on Adam’s proffered arm and allowed him to escort her to Cascade Hall. How long it took to get there, what they talked about or if they met other people along the way, Talitha couldn’t tell. She was in a daze. She could have sworn her feet never touched the ground. She floated along, tethered only by her light touch on Adam’s arm.
She came down to Earth by the dazzling beauty of the hall. It had been decorated so elegantly. Every one looked splendid in their finery. Even Jae looked half way nice. She waved to her friends as they entered. This was going to be fun!
“Where would you like to sit?” Talitha looked up at Adam and gave his arm a little squeeze for encouragement.
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0
Talitha Cumni
Magical-ness Happens
102
Talitha Cumni
0
5
Josh Warren
March 24, 2008 2:37 PM
Someone say dance party? Tag: The rest of the party by Josh Warren
Josh stared into his wardrobe, contemplating where his suit was hiding. Josh pulled out his blue jersey, his robes, his jeans, some more robes, and was in the act of reaching to take out his other jersey when he spotted it: The black suit. Now all he had to do was find the black shirt that went with it. He probably should have done this before the day of the dance... Luckily, it didn't take too long to find the shirt, his ice blue tie laying around the hanger. His mother had sent it with him on his return from Japan where he ad instantly stuck it in the back of his wardrobe. At least he found everything now. Josh changed into his clothes, not thinking of the time or what time he would need to be ready. The mirror didn't reflect much of a change in his hair. He had simply took a comb through it. Really, what else was there to do to it? Josh glanced at the clock realizing he was running early. He probably should have paid attention to the time...Josh was suppose to meet Cecily in front of Cascade Hall. She seemed like she was decently nice to him the time they had met. That was a plus. He could see that she was probably pureblood with the etiquette she held in her response to his question of the ball. He was definitely nervous about how this evening would go. If Cecily decided she didn't want to hang around him half-way through the night, he was a little stuck. He could find someone he knew, maybe, but it would be much less awkward if the night went well. As this thought occured to him, Josh decided it was better to be early than risking being late in meeting her. With a wave to Zane, Josh closed the door behind him and headed towards the hall.
On being ahead of time, the walk to the Hall was not crammed with people. The Hall was dazzeling with the additional decorations adorning every corner. He vaguely wondered how long it had taken to transform the Hall into what it was. Josh made his way to the cluster of tables, deciding that he would be able to see the entrance from here. Looking over towards the entrance, Josh spotted someone walking over towards the same table. It took him a moment to reccognize the girl. Josh's dark eyebrows rose for the smallest of seconds. She looked brilliant in her black dress, green ribbon decorating areas of the dress. Her hair lay in waves, framing her face. This night was going to be harder to deal with than he thought... Laurie's gaze wsa held by the decor of the Hall. She didn't seem to notice much around her besides the additions to Cascade. Josh pulled out the chair behind her as she landed into it.
“Oh, sorry; hi! The others should be here in a bit.”
"Yeah, I figured. Renaye's probably taking her time and Zane was getting ready. I didn't want to be late or something. You know, give a good impression," he said with a shrug.
“I never imagined the Hall could look quite like this; did you?”
"No way," he said, grinning around at the area around him. "This should be fun." Josh hesitated before adding, "Talen looking forward to the ball?"
0
Josh Warren
Someone say dance party? Tag: The rest of the party
0
Josh Warren
0
5
Caedence
March 24, 2008 3:51 PM
I'm in a dress... TAG: Jae, ATTN:Elly by Caedence
OOC: The ATTN Elly is if you want to reply to this. You don’t have to, Caedence was just yelling out your name. It’s up to you! : ) And you’re welcome to bring Sir Echo too if you chose to come ; )Caedence ran a brush through her long pale blonde hair. She was going to leave it just like this, she decided, but a bit better. Her hair had gotten very long, and she forgot just how much hair was there when it wasn’t in a pony-tail or a braid. She grabbed the box Danae had given her from her bedside table. Scrap leaped into the spot it was in, nearly upsetting the glass Elly made. Caedence had found several little clear fishbowl pebbles to fill the glass with so that Scrap couldn’t easily knock it down.
Opening the box, Caedence ruffled through an assortment of ribbons, hair ties, and hair clips. She grabbed a black-and crimson ribbon out before laying the box on her pillow. She took the ribbon and laced it through her hair, tying it off in a bow, so that it looked like a headband. She moved the bow so that it was slightly off-left of her head.
Taking a compact mirror out, she looked around, hoping that Elly wasn’t around. She wanted to surprise her friend, so it wouldn’t be good for Elly to see her before the look was complete. Taking gray eye shadow out, she colored each lid lightly. Then, she took a silver eye-liner pencil out and traced the outside edges of her eyes lightly. She put some mascara on and applied bright red lipstick to her lips. Finishing it off with foundation and light blush, she looked at herself in the mirror.
A totally new Caedence looked back at her. Her hair had a natural flip at the end that she never noticed before which framed her face nicely. She looked like a normal young teenage girl going to her first big dance. Sure, she went to parties at school, but those weren’t dress-up kind of things. And she never stayed more than a couple minutes as security often escorted her out.
The last thing to put on was her dress. Careful of her make-up and hair, she slipped it on.
It was a dark burgundy spaghetti strap dress. There were several small crimson flowers. Just under where the neckline was cut were two crimson stripes going around the dress. The back was cut somewhat low, with the two straps crossing into an X. After zipping it up, Caedence spun around once, loving the silky feel of the dress on her, listening to the sound the fabric made. Giving Scrap a quick scratch behind the ears, Caedence slipped into her dark red shoes. The heel wasn’t too pointed, which made it easier to walk in. Only the toes were covered up, the rest was held on with criss-crossing lines of dark red. She grabbed a burgundy handbag which held her lipstick and charmed camera that would work in the school.
She descended from the girls dorm rooms and glanced around. Not seeing Jae in the dorm, she figured that she could meet him at the dance.
She was amazed at the colors that met her in the Hall. It was so cool. She felt so normal. It was strange. She took out her camera and snapped a few pictures of the place. She was going to send these to her mom. It would make her feel better. The letters she had been getting were sounding more and more ominous, but she was sure seeing her girl having a fun time at her first real dressy dance would cheer her up a bit. She couldn’t wait till summer to visit her mom and tell her all about it. Sure, she could send a letter, but the story was much more fun in person, she was sure.
“Jae!” she called out looking around for her date. “Elly!” she added, hoping to see her friend as well. “Jae” she called one last time.
OOC: Her dress- http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/prom2000_1995_16326754
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0
Caedence
I'm in a dress... TAG: Jae, ATTN:Elly
94
Caedence
0
5
Raoul
March 24, 2008 3:54 PM
Awaiting the arrival of the fair lady (TAG: Holly) (nm) by Raoul
52
Raoul
Awaiting the arrival of the fair lady (TAG: Holly) (nm)
125
Raoul
0
5
Raoul
March 24, 2008 3:55 PM
The cursed enter key by Raoul
OOC: Who hates enter keys? Hands? *raises own*IC:Raoul straightened his bow tie for what felt like the thousandth time. His parents had sent him some dress robes after he told them about the ball and his date. His mom seemed the most excited from their letter, as she kept repeating that her baby boy was all grown up and having dates at his young age. Raoul had to roll his eyes at that. Typical Mama, always mushy about things.
His dress robes were pretty simple. They looked like a normal black and white tux, with an attached cape behind. He had gelled his blonde hair into its usual spikes, but took extra care to make sure that they looked good. One more time of fussing with his bowtie before heading out of his room.
He was distressed to look around the commons and not see his date. Wasn’t the boy supposed to lead the girl to the ball or something? He asked around to see if anyone had seen Holly. After the umpteenth person he interrogated, he found out she had been spotted in the bathrooms getting ready. With a sigh, Raoul decided to meet her in the Hall.
His eyes grew wide as he took in all of the people in their finery. He was used to a sea of forest green robes. Here there was blues and greens and reds and all other kinds of colors. It was dazzling to behold.
He made an effort to shut his gaping mouth and not look like some dorky first year. But he couldn’t help staring. They had nothing like this that he ever went to in France! There the school parties were a bunch of kids in jeans and a t-shirt sipping kool-aide and eating cookies while the parents chatted in a corner. This was something else all together! He felt like he was back at his first day of school, staring wide-eyed at the marble and chandeliers.
He looked around, but couldn’t find Holly. He decided that she must be either in the crowd, or still getting ready. He turned around to look for her in another direction and almost collided with someone.
“Excusez-moi. Êtez-vous bien?” He said, then noticing who he almost ran into added, “Oh! ‘Olly! C’est vous!” He grinned as he backed up away. “We should not be meeting this way, non? One of us could be losing a foot.” He winked at her. “You look good.” He added.
OOC: Translator:
Excusez-moi. Êtez-vous bien- Excuse me, are you okay?
C’est vous- it’s you
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52
Raoul
The cursed enter key
125
Raoul
0
5
Holly Greer
March 24, 2008 4:57 PM
Princess Holly Thistle by Holly Greer
She was beautiful. She knew she was beautiful. She'd spent enough time and had enough help getting ready that there simply wasn't any other option. Her dress was perfect - a lovely pale pink gauze gown that flowed about her when she moved. Her hair was perfect - done up in an elegant style that her friends had fussed over for what seemed like forever before it was just right. Her nails were perfect - trimmed and polished in a pink that matched the dress. Her make-up was perfect - and that had been redone enough times that she was sure she'd eventually found the best possible way to do it. She'd changed her shoes a half dozen times, but she and the others had eventually reached consensus that this white pair of satin slippers looked the best with everything else.She walked with perfect posture and carriage as she and the other girls left the bathroom where they'd met for their preparation party. Only once she was in the hallway, however, did she realize that she'd forgotten to mention to Raoul where he ought to pick her up. She had already decided not to bring her supplies back to Pecari before the ball (she figured they were safe in the bathroom until it was time to go back - her suitcase had a lock on the zipper and her name Princess Holly Thistle was written in glitter on its front so there could be no confusion about who it belonged to), and she really didn't have time to change that decision now.
When he didn't see her in the common room he would surely think she had already gone to the Hall, right? So she headed that way and loitered in the entrance way for a few minutes before deciding to look inside to see if he'd gotten there first. After another couple of minutes' search, she turned around and nearly ran into Raoul himself. This was obvious by the French that met her as they reeled back a step or two so they weren't on top of each other anymore.
“Excusez-moi. Êtez-vous bien? Oh! ‘Olly! C’est vous! We should not be meeting this way, non? One of us could be losing a foot.” She smiled at this and was reminded of how she'd nearly dropped all her books on him at the Novelling Fury meeting in February. Then she blushed as he winked at her and added, “You look good.”
"Thank you," she returned and did a little twirl in place so he could see the whole of outfit. "I love this dress. I feel like a real live princess wearing it." She took a moment to look him over and nod approvingly. "You look quite handsome yourself, Mr. Raoul.
Mutual appreciation finished, Holly felt she owed him an apology for her oversight, so she added, "I'm so sorry I forgot to tell you that I was meeting with friends to get ready beforehand. I hope you didn't think I forgot about you or was standing you up or anything."
1
Holly Greer
Princess Holly Thistle
123
Holly Greer
0
5
Cecily Smythe
March 24, 2008 7:02 PM
How I am included with these misfits? by Cecily Smythe
After a delightful afternoon getting dolled up with Holly, Cecily was in the highest spirits as she entered the Hall. Trying not to be too distracted by the beautification of the not-so-familiar Cascade Hall, Cecily sauntered her petite frame through the crowds gathering around the Hall entrance – had everybody decided to meet up here? - until she spied familiar faces at a nearby table. Of course, the familiar faces sadly didn’t belong to the elite of society, but to the misfits of her year. Reminding herself once again that this was her idea, Cecily took a deep breath, plastered a coy smile on her face and announced herself.“Oh good, I’m not last here,” she said. She flashed Josh a quick smile, in the same instance assessing his outfit. Cecily knew full well that she looked nothing short of stunning. Her crimson satin dress was simple and fitted, with thin shoulder straps and a netted skirt just past her knees. Her slim ankles sat above slippers in the same fabric with a modest heel, and her chestnut hair was brushed and polished to a high shine, then left to fall pseudo-naturally around her shoulders. Her nails were delicately manicured in natural shades, and she wore minimal make-up around her brown eyes. She was, in a word, perfection. But that was nothing new. Josh, on the other hand, did look different, and Cecily was mildly yet pleasantly surprised. The dark attire suited him almost as well as it suited her.
“Hey, Laurie,” Cecily smiled at her roommate. “Nice dress.”
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Cecily Smythe
How I am included with these misfits?
122
Cecily Smythe
0
5
Jake Santoro
March 24, 2008 7:05 PM
I'm looking for my date, Ms. Zucchero? by Jake Santoro
Jake didn't take all that long to get ready. A shower, shave, and a quick spell to dewrinkle his dress robes and Jake was set to go. So, the fact that he started getting ready a half hour prior to the ball and him waiting somewhat impatiently in the entrance hall twenty-five minutes later. He had worn dress robes all his life. His family was having some sort of event that required them. Someone getting married, someone having a birthday party, someone throwing something that involved him wearing the getup. Jake was so used to it that he never really thought twice about it when he had to put them on. So, it was a little more than amusing for him to watch some of the other students walking around looking uncomfortable in their outfits, completely showing how new they were to all this.He ran a hand through his black curls. His hair had grown quite a bit over the year and he was sure his mother would pitch a fit when she saw him come summer. Jake had always been lazy when he came to keeping his hair nice and trimmed. He actually kind of liked his hair longer so that his curls actually showed through. It gave him a more approachable look than when his hair was short and in place. His hand fidgeted for a moment with his hair before dropping it by his side. There wasn't much he could do with it anyhow.
The hall was starting to fill up, thankfully, being older than most of the students and at a better height advantage than most, Jake could still see over the heads of most as he looked for his girlfriend. He held a small box in his hands that his mother had sent up to him just days ago and demanded that he gave it to Jennifer. His siblings all got a box and truth be told, Jake was actually grateful to his mother. She always thought of the little details that Jake always seem to overlook. His fingers drummed against the box while he waited for Jennifer to make her appearance. He'll never understand why girls started getting ready two hours beforehand but still ended up being late.
He saw a few of his teammates make their way into Cascade. It was odd seeing them dressed up or coupled off. He supposed he never really thought about it before. His dark eyes watched one of his brothers take off into the hall with a girl, from his position, it looked like Josh. Bella made her way through with Ben. He was grinning as he watched people wander around. Jake felt a little strange knowing that this would be the only dance he'd go to in his school career at Sonora. Next year he would be a seventh year and then after that? The possibilities were endless.
Jake's attention was drawn away from those around to the familiar face of his girlfriend. He made his way through the crowd to meet her, the grin still on his face as he looked her over. As usual, she looked amazing. When he finally reached her, Jake bent low and kissed her on her cheek (he knew better than to mess up a girl's makeup). "You look..." He paused for a moment, searching for the right word to use, "exquisito" He finally settled on, slipping back into his first language as he usually did when he paid her a compliment. "Uh...here..." Jake handed her the small box in his hands. Inside the box was a delicate floral wrist corsage. The rose was charmed to match the dress of whomever wore the laced ribbon around her wrist.
6
Jake Santoro
I'm looking for my date, Ms. Zucchero?
42
Jake Santoro
0
5
Laurie
March 24, 2008 8:42 PM
Through pure good luck. by Laurie
Laurie considered Josh’s question carefully, giving the answer perhaps a bit more thought than actually necessary. “I guess so. I mean, we haven’t actually spoken all that much this term. We’ve both been busy studying, and then I’ve been working on my ar-”she broke off abruptly, her expression suddenly bashful. She leaned in conspiratorially. “I haven’t told anyone this, but, I’m going out for the paper next year. I mean, I haven’t actually really written anything before, but since I’m not terribly talented to flying, I figured I ought to give it a chance, right?”Her article had begun slowly, originally intended to be a sort of fluff piece about New Year’s Resolutions, and how they panned out by the end of term. But each of her interviews had turned into segues into family histories, which then led her into the library and researching genealogies, which then arrived at an entirely brand new idea. An idea that, at the present, she was keeping to herself. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to share her newest interest with her friends, but at the moment, it was a secret she took enjoyment in having all to herself.
She took in her friend’s appearance, the realization that Josh looked different finally dawning on her. There was still that casual sort of confidence about him that she always took note of, but again, there was something . . .well, different. Maybe it was the dress shirt, or the tie- she had never seen him wear either before. The suit hardly registered in her consideration . . . or perhaps it was his hair. It did look a little less, well, I’ve-been-flying-through-the-air-and-engaging-in-other-really-active-adventures. “Hey, wow, you look really nice, Josh,” she complimented. “Cecily is going to be really pleased- oh, speaking of which, there she is . . .”
Laurie’s words trailed off, some of her exuberance quelling at the sight of her roommate. Cecily always looked like she had stepped off of the page of some couture, high –fashion magazine cover, but tonight, Laurie felt like any second there would be clouds parting, and angels sounding some grand announcement. Suddenly, her semi-handcrafted dress seemed less than par. Unconsciously, her feet hid themselves beneath her chair, their length seeming awkwardly gawky in comparison to Cecily’s tiny, delicate slippers.
”Oh, good, I’m not the last here.” Laurie gave her friend (and yes, they were friends, despite personality differences) a welcoming smile, not quite pushing back at her sudden lack of self confidence. “Nope. Zane and Renaye should be down in a bit, and Talen should be here any moment now.”
Her gaze stretched past Cecily’s dress (which was still beyond gorgeous, and definitely years nicer than hers- not that she was terribly affected by that fact) and toward the entrance. She had thought Talen would definitely be the sort to arrive early. Had he perhaps changed his mind? She hadn’t told him about her plans to bring a group, having decided a fait accompli the best route to take. Had he come in, seen her with her friends, and then decided to retreat? Her lips straightened from their smile, a touch of worry coming to her expression.
”Hey, Laurie. Nice dress.”
Laurie couldn’t help but wince at Cecily’s words. She was certain her friend (yes, gosh-darn-it, they were definitely friends) hadn’t meant to sound patronizing. Cecily might be a bit upfront about things, but she was almost always polite. Laurie hadn’t known her to say things and not mean it. Well, at least, she hadn’t ever known Cecily to hold back from an opinion just because it might come across a little tactless. “Thanks,” she managed somewhat lamely. “You look amazing, though. I didn’t even know they could make dresses that look like that.”
0
Laurie
Through pure good luck.
0
Laurie
0
5
Josh Santoro
March 24, 2008 8:57 PM
I hope I don't ruin the night (Danae) by Josh Santoro
Josh stood nervously in the hall while he waited for Danae. He wasn't exactly sure why he was so nervous since he and Danae hung out all the time, but he felt overwhelmingly anxious standing there in his best dress robes and the small box his mother sent up in his hands. He touched his hand to his hair for the millionth time that evening. Matt had convinced him to wear it differently than the usual spikey do. Josh wasn't really liking the flat, bangs in his face look, but it was too late to fix it now. He felt...shorter, even though he wasn't. Oh well, it was probably time for a change anyway, he was sort of getting tired of everyone getting him and Matt mixed up.He fidgeted with the collar of his robe, glancing at his reflection in a window. He had worn these plenty of times having grown up with parties surrounding him, but this was different. It wasn't a family event. He had a date. An actual date. With a girl he considered to be a good friend and could possibly hate him if the night didn't go well at all. It didn't help that Matt would be expecting them to hang around him that the Pecari crew. It that Josh didn't like that group, it was just that he didn't think he fit in with them the way that Matt did. And it wasn't because he wasn't in Pecari. His personality just wasn't as outgoing as theirs was. In fact, aside from his brother whom he had to deal with due to blood, Danae was the only other Pecari that Josh felt comfortable with.
Josh stopped fidgeting with his robes when he spotted Danae. He gave her a wavoring smile as he looked over her outfit. "Wow Danae, you look...just...wow." So he wasn't the most eloquent with words at the moment, but it was hard to find the appropriate words that really conveyed just how good Danae looked that evening. Or really ever, but Josh wasn't about to say that part outloud even if it did smooth things over even just a tad bit. "Er, shall we?" He asked, holding out his arm for her to take.
He led the two of them into Cascade and found a table that was still relatively empty. He held out her chair for her and then pushed her in once she was seated. Sitting next to her, Josh sat around for a moment trying to figure out what to talk about. He really hoped this entire evening wasn't going to be awkward, he honestly wanted to have fun and he wanted her to have fun too. "Oh yeah!" He suddenly chimed, "Here, my mom sent these up for us." Josh said, holding out the box to her. Inside the box was a beautifully created corsage that laced around the wrist of the girl it was to be given to. The rose that was the centerpiece of the corsage would change colors to match the dress the girl wore.
Just then, Headmaster Bulla began talking. The Head Boy and Girl were announced and Josh clapped when Jennifer was named Head Girl. Well, Jake certainly got it right when he started dating her. The food arrived and Josh looked it over for a moment trying to decide if it was going to be as good as it looked. The one thing that he missed while here at Sonora was that he didn't get his Mama's cooking. Or any real Spanish dish that made his mouth water. Tonight he had been hoping for at least one thing that had his heritage in it, but looking at his plate, it didn't really look like that was going to happen. "I hope they have flan for dessert." Josh commented to Danae.
(OOC: I hope you don't mind that I had Josh lead her into the Hall or any other various thing I may have done :P)
0
Josh Santoro
I hope I don't ruin the night (Danae)
0
Josh Santoro
0
5
Jae
March 24, 2008 10:12 PM
Duuude...that's way freaky. In a good way! by Jae
Jae had been in a bit of a quandry so far as the whole getting dressed bit went. He didn't have any dressy clothes and had felt a little bit embarrassed to write home and ask his aunts to send something. Mostly because Aunt Cheri, at least, didn't believe in dress clothes. And Aunt Marla would make a fuss about Jae dating or something, and Jae wasn't. He was just going to a party to hang out with Caedence, who was one of his best friends. Also, there was going to be food there. Food was way madcoolawesome. Jae was definitely into food. Vaguely, the boy wondered what sort of food there was going to be. Wizarding food or Muggle food? He knew that there was a difference in candy (a way mongo difference--if a chocolate bar jumped at you, people would get sued in the Muggle world), but not about party food.Would they have those little hotdogs?
Eventually, the blonde, dreadlocked second year decided to go with the safe look. He pulled on his best looking pants (they were black, with more pockets than would normally be expected of dress pants, but black) and a neat, blue collared shirt. He also wore a tie. It was also black, with neon bubbles on it. It was a magical tie, one that Aunt Cheri had given him for his birthday, so the bubbles floated around. It amused Jae immensely and he thought that Caede would probably think it was fun too, therefore why he was wearing it.
Dreadlocks in order, animals carefully shut in the room, Jae tripped down the stairs until he got to Cascade Hall...and failed to find Caedence. This was an odd sensation. Usually you could hear Caede long before you saw her, except that with everything going on, he could do neither. Except for, all of a sudden, he could hear her!
The small Pecari (he had grown an entire inch, but was still short by a lot of standards) made his way through the quasi-crowded room to find Caedence. In a dress. With a ribbon. And makeup. And...looking like a Girl. Like, a Real Girl. It was...woaaaaaahhhhhh.
"OMG, CAEDE!" Jae yelled (pronouncing the 'omg' as om-guh, a habit he'd spontaneously picked up at some point). "You look amazingly awesome!" He promptly gave her a huge hug, enthusiasm lighting up his green eyes.
0
Jae
Duuude...that's way freaky. In a good way!
0
Jae
0
5
Jennifer Zucchero
March 24, 2008 11:47 PM
I'd thought we'd finished with the asking part by Jennifer Zucchero
The reinstatement of the Sonoran ball had proven to be of little to no real importance for Jennifer. The madness that seemed to have overtaken some of the student body hadn't affected her at all, really. She had an automatic date, which put her ahead of the majority of girls, and while she wasn't going to flaunt him or anything, that took a great deal of the worry out of it. She had a dress, care of her mother. In fact, the only time the ball had seemed like it was going to mean anything was when Geoffrey had asked her, and while that had certainly held potential for disaster, that result seemed to have been averted for the moment. From what she'd heard, he'd even gotten himself an actual date, which could only mean he was moving on from his ill-fated crush. The dance itself, while it should be interesting, was really nothing more than another school function, albeit with nicer clothes than normally worn around the campus.However, her lack of emphasis on the event didn't translate into any sort of negligence on preparing for it or a lack of excitement once the date actually rolled around. She put in more emphasis with regards to the actual preparation, in the end spending a little more than two hours getting ready. Vanity and unnecessary girliness were one of those things that seemed to be unintentionally growing on her. She wasn’t sure if she should blame Lizzie, her mother, other friends or just herself, but whatever could take fault wasn’t really significant. All she had to do was keep it reasonably under control. Pride forgoes a fall, and everything. But not tonight.
After completing her hair and makeup and making sure there weren’t any last minute things that needed fixing with her dress (strapless, knee-length, and pink with black lacework around the hem and bodice, it was one of her favorites), Jennifer headed down to Cascade with the other girls in her dorm. Jake was meeting her by the entrance, and she really did enjoy her roommates’ company and spent nowhere near enough time in it.
She also felt no shame, though, in abandoning them as soon as she caught sight of her boyfriend. With an apologetic smile to the others that wasn’t entirely felt, she walked over to Jake and met him halfway. “Good evening and thank you,” she greeted as he kissed her on the cheek. “You look wonderful too.” She opened the box he gave her and put on the wrist corsage before leaning up to give her date an actual kiss, though brief (thank Merlin for non-transferable lipstick). “This is lovely, thank you.” The two of them followed the rest of the crowd inside after that to take their seats and await the opening speech.
"But, before all of this, I have a very important announcement to make."
The fact that the results for head boy and girl were to be announced had, if not entirely slipped Jennifer’s mind, at the very least been relegated to the back of it. It seemed like a long time had passed between then and now, though it couldn’t have been all that long. She hadn’t seriously entertained any notions of winning. While she liked to think she was well-liked, the lack of prefectship had been a serious pitfall in her opinion. So when Bulla actually called her name it took a few seconds for her to process that, yes, Jennifer Zucchero of Crotalus really was the second person summoned to the stage.
She listened half in a daze while the headmaster handed her and Zack the badges, and actually didn’t notice anything odd about Zack’s comment to her in whatever strange foreign tongue it was for a few minutes. Even after she’d returned to her seat Jennifer remained quiet, almost transfixed by the badge and continually thinking I’m head girl. I’m actually head girl. Oh my God. It actually happened.
Once a few minutes of shocked happiness had passed, though, she realized that her current behavior was more than a little rude to her date, particularly as he had been in the running for head boy and hadn’t gotten it, though she was fairly certain he hadn’t wanted it in the first place. “Sorry, Jake, I’ll stop being so out of it. I’m just…really surprised I got voted, and everything. I was actually expecting Mia was going to get it. I'll be good now.”
\r\n\r\n
0
Jennifer Zucchero
I'd thought we'd finished with the asking part
48
Jennifer Zucchero
0
5
Renaye and Josh Warren
March 25, 2008 2:16 AM
And good Karma by Renaye and Josh Warren
“I guess so. I mean, we haven’t actually spoken all that much this term. We’ve both been busy studying, and then I’ve been working on my ar-” A feeling of something related to comfort came over him at her words. Maybe they weren't as close as he thought... At her closing words, however, Josh grinned. Laurie looked shy at continuing, so he tried to look encouraging. He pulled up a chair and sat facing her."No, no," he said, "You have to finish now." Laurie leaned in and he caught that glimpse of color and brightness in her eyes. The green in her dress seemed to enahance them somehow, making it hard to concentrate on what she was actually saying. He mentally shook himself from his reverie and tuned in to her words: “I haven’t told anyone this, but, I’m going out for the paper next year. I mean, I haven’t actually really written anything before, but since I’m not terribly talented to flying, I figured I ought to give it a chance, right?”
The newspaper; Why did that seem to fit her so well? He could definitely see her, sitting at a school gathering, pen in hand, not notepad resting on her knee. He had never read anything that she had written, but somehow he knew she would be good at it. Maybe it was the way she spoke, but writing, he deduced, must come naturally to her. The fact that he was the first she had actually told seemed to lift his confidence strangely. It was nice to know she trusted him enough to talk to him about it.
"Wow," he said, "Laurie, you'd be great at the newspaper! No honestly, I can definitely see you doing well with that. It's probably just the way you talk, but I can tell you would be great at it."
“Hey, wow, you look really nice, Josh,” she complimented.
Josh sent his gaze down to his shoes and felt his cheeks flush at her compliment. "Thanks," he said quietly. He lifted his eyes up again to meet Laurie's eyes. "You look fantastic, by the way." He gave her a small smile and looked away again, feeling even more color rise to his face. “Cecily is going to be really pleased- oh, speaking of which, there she is . . .”
For a short moment, Josh had forgotten that Laurie and he each had their own dates for this dance and was brought back to reality by her words. He looked around and spotted Cecily, looking noticeably stunning in her red dress. “Oh good, I’m not last here,” she said. She offered a smile, which he returned.
"Hi," he said, "You look great."
“Nope. Zane and Renaye should be down in a bit, and Talen should be here any moment now.”
"Present," Renaye spoke up as she joined the group. Her floor-length yellow dress flowed around her small golden heels. Renaye didn't want to deal with those really high heels so she went with the small heeled sandals. Her blonde hair was curled and pinned half-back. She hadn't known what to do with her make-up, but she had done her best and was pretty pleased with the outcome. She had been afraid to add too much make-up in case she added too much. That technique seemed to work, in her opinion. "Laurie, you look beautiful! You look nice too, Cecily," she said, adding in Cecily's name out of courtesy. Cecily did look very nice, so she really couldn't ignore it. The whole you-don't-exist-to-me thing was getting old anyway.
"It looks like we're missing some of the guys," Renaye turned to the rest of the group. "Hey, is it okay if I invited Irene to come with us? I didn't think it would be the same without her."
OOC: Raye's dress: http://www.edressmeprom.com/3539.html
Raye's hair:
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Renaye and Josh Warren
And good Karma
0
Renaye and Josh Warren
0
5
Eavan Valentine
March 25, 2008 2:57 AM
One is the lonliest number by Eavan Valentine
Danae had been kind enough to help Eavan with her look for the ball and as sheEavan made her way down to Cascade hall alone, knowing that Danae was going to meet her date in the hallway somewhere in a few moments. Looking around the hall, the first thing Eavan noticed wasn't the pretty decorations, or the live music warming up or fancy dishes of food that suddenly appeared on the table. It was the people. She had figured that with Sonora's population the way it was, there would be plenty of girls without dates milling about, but sadly, she didn't know and couldn't see anyone that wasn't part of a couple.
She piled some salad onto her plate and picked at it, suddenly not feeling too thrilled about the ball, now that she was there. All through the meal, Eavan kept shifting her eyes from her plate to the faces laughing and chatting around her. After a while, she spotted Danae with her date and waved happily. She might be alone, but she was happy that Danae had someone to dance with.
Suddenly Eavan's mainly uneaten dinner vanished and she heard the band start up and watched the tables disappear from the floor as the prefects began the dance. Eavan made her way to one side of the hall and watched the first dance of the night. She'd wait until a faster song came on and she didn't look so much like an idiot when dancing. Instead she swayed to the music and tried to catch a glimpse of Earl through the crowd.
So intent was she on spotting her brother that she barely noticed the person who made themselves comfortable next to her. Eventually she felt a presence, and without taking her eyes off the crowd stated rather blandly "You dateless too?"
0
Eavan Valentine
One is the lonliest number
86
Eavan Valentine
0
5
Elly Eriksson
March 25, 2008 6:24 AM
Always in a good way by Elly Eriksson
The main disadvantage of ball gowns turned out not to be that they had skirts, but rather that they didn’t have pockets. Having already spent more time getting ready than she would ever admit to (though, she suspected, far less time than the other girls in her dorm), Elly spent a further few minutes rummaging through her belongings until she found the small black shoulder bag that she had perhaps used once in her life before. Never would she have imagined it would actually come in useful one day.Elly brushed some lint of her bag, and filled it with packs of breath mints and her wand. Next she gave Custard a quick cuddle and then placed the critter in her sock drawer – the only safe place in the dorm now that Scrap was around. Falling over the pile of discarded items that had accumulated during the bag search, Elly made her way bag to her bed and reluctantly pulled on the silliest shoes she’d ever seen. She could barely walk in them and had already decided that once she got down to the Hall she would take them right off again, but she didn’t have anything else suitable to wear, so silly shoes it was.
Finally she was just about ready to face the music. Standing once more, Elly grabbed her bag from her bed and wobbled her way to do a final mirror check. She was surprised with what she saw – her hair was a mess, naturally – there were some things that just couldn’t be changed. Her legs and arms looked far too long and white, sticking out from the rest of her in their usual gangly fashion. She was far too tall, especially with the silly shoes on, but even after all that, the girl staring back at her through the glass didn’t look bad at all. Elly grinned – it was show time!
Walking to the Hall was a verifiable nightmare – the shoes were already uncomfortable and Elly felt as though everyone could see up her skirt – they couldn’t, of course, it was far too long for that, but the paranoia was there regardless. It was odd – Elly hadn’t really thought a great deal about her appearance before. Well, she knew she was too tall and too thin, and her hair was always a complete mess, no matter what she did with it. Aside from that, Elly always dressed to feel comfortable. Sure she had clothes that she liked more than others, and she knew she looked more presentable in her black jeans than in her pale blue pair with the ripped knees. The point was that she felt at home in those clothes – this dress malarkey was a completely different matter! Her shoulders were bare except for a set of very thin straps, and if she fell over or twirled too hard then there was a real possibility that complete strangers would be able to see her underwear. Never a good thing. Still, it wasn’t as though anybody was going to be watching her, so she tried to relax and forget that she was wearing a dress, and silly shoes that she couldn’t walk in.
Elly breathed a sigh of relief when she finally got to the Hall. Glancing around, Caedence was the first person she saw, along with Jae, Brett’s roommate. “I made it,” she said, grinning. Suddenly the fact that she looked ridiculous didn’t matter, because everyone else was dressed up, too, and probably feeling equally as uncomfortable. Elly did a small twirl in her dress so they could get the full effect of her in a skirt. “I look like a Christmas tree ornament, I know,” she said, laughing. “You look lovely, though,” she told Caedence.
0
Elly Eriksson
Always in a good way
92
Elly Eriksson
0
5
Zane Cooper
March 25, 2008 11:16 AM
You must feel so honored by Zane Cooper
Zane Cooper hated to dress up, no matter the occasion. Dress robes simply weren’t his style, he was more of a jeans and sweatshirt kind of a kid. Which was why he was putting off the dreadful event of Preparing for the Ball for as long as he possibly could. The less time he had to spend in whatever dress robes his parents had sent him (he hadn’t gotten around to actually opening the package yet) the better.It was about twenty minutes before the Ball was due to start when Zane was finally able to drag himself off of his bed and into the shower. As this was a special occasion, the twelve year-old bothered to put some gel in his hair, so as to keep his brown curls from getting their usual frizz. Letting his hair do its own thing from there, he ripped open the package and was quite surprised to see the black dress robes within. He was thankful his mother had been kind enough to get him anything in color, it might turn out embarrassing for him if people started to ask about it. Names like red, orange, yellow and green meant very little to Zane, besides being different names that everyone else he knew seemed to be able to agree on. He had the same problem with violet, lavender, purple, and blue – they all looked alike to him. Not that he planned on admitting that to anybody. Nobody was going to let him play Quidditch if they found out that he had deuteranopia – he was sure of it.
Maneuvering through the dress robe, he finally got it on straight with five minutes to spare before the Ball was to start. Looking at the mirror, he was surprised. The boy was no expert, but he was certain that these were by far the finest (and most expensive) dress robes he had ever owned. He knew his mom had been especially excited ever since he owled her that he had found a date (no matter how often he tried to reassure her that he and Renaye were going as friends) but didn’t think that she’d be willing to spend this kind of money on one night. The Coopers weren’t poor, but they certainly didn’t have money to just throw around, either.
Coming out of the bathroom, he somehow managed to tie the black bowtie in a way that looked presentable, got his good black shoes on, and deemed himself ready to go. Or at least, as ready as he’d ever be.
Zane searched for his group of friends amongst the crowd and didn’t have too much trouble picking out his roommate… and was that Renaye? He still preferred her in regular clothes, but she looked really good in a dress too. Running a hand through his curls, he nervously hoped that she wasn’t the type to dance. It wasn’t that he didn’t like dancing or anything, he just didn’t know how.
“Hey guys,” he said to everybody, but his dark eyes never left the female Warren twin, “Renaye you look… wow.”
0
Zane Cooper
You must feel so honored
0
Zane Cooper
0
5
Echo Elms (with Brett Hodges)
March 25, 2008 11:41 AM
You're all so pretty! Er.. except Jae. Jae is dapper. by Echo Elms (with Brett Hodges)
[OOC: I added in a couple of things from Saul that I didn't consult my dear sister about. Didn't think she'd mind Saul's inclusion. Any trouble, sis, lemme know.]Getting ready for the ball, Brett had assured Echo at lunch time, should take at least two hours. If it doesn't, then you didn't do it right. And so it was that Echo found himself sitting on his bed an hour before the ball, wondering what he did wrong (besides beating the shower line, which was, admittedly, a big plus). His big curly hair was clean and dry. He'd even used a clipping charm to give himself a fresh haircut and a taming charm so it wasn't quite as wild as usual. All he had left to do was don the clothes and it wasn't time for that yet.
In the interim, Brett poked his head in and told him he looked dapper (Brett's word of the day) and enlisted his assistance in hair clipping charms for the less confident second years (a.k.a. Brett). Then, he watched Brett take entirely too long do decide which socks to wear before going back to his own room.
His own robes were well pressed black and fitted--a Dickens meets The Matrix combination of a robe and a jacket--with modern turquoise accents (the latest option in dress robe fashion, if the ads were to be believed). Beneath them, Echo wore a matching turquoise blouse with a short Chinese style collar with black slacks. Naturally, Brett had picked out the whole bit, giving him choices of this or that and ignoring Echo's replies in favor of Saul's.
Still, the look was satisfactorily sci-fi (if braver and trendier than he'd have chosen) and even the shoes were passingly comfortable, even if Saul had turned them turquoise in some transfigurative spell Echo couldn't seem to unravel (not for lack of trying). A few final touches -- adding his wand and his reading glasses to his many pockets, and guzzling down a tension-easing potion -- and he was ready.
For one reason or another, he was meeting Elly at the dance, so he waved to his roommates and headed out a little early, chose a table, and waited.
Caedence he did not recognize until she started screaming for Jae and Elly. Both materialized almost immediately. Elly looked amazing. She was shiny like a disco ball and her dress made her look kind of like a pixie, but in a good way. And then her hair. And her smile. And Elly.
Echo floated toward them, not at all literally, and was quite pleased with the effect of Elly spinning around. She apologized for looking like a Christmas tree ornament and told Caedence how great she looked. It was not an exaggeration.
"You all do," he spoke up grinning and taking in everyone close up. He made a show of adjusting his glasses as he did so in that can't quite believe my eyes way that only people with glasses can achieve.
"I saved us a table," he added and bowed a little, trying to be like a host at a restaurant. "Right this way."
"M'lady," he said, steeled himself and, with an embarrassed smile, offered Elly his arm.
0
Echo Elms (with Brett Hodges)
You're all so pretty! Er.. except Jae. Jae is dapper.
0
Echo Elms (with Brett Hodges)
0
5
Oliver Abbott
March 25, 2008 12:05 PM
Is Hannah around? (wotw) by Oliver Abbott
Oliver looked himself over for about the hundredth time. He wasn’t vain – far from it, he thought he was a bit peculiar-looking – but determined not to make a complete idiot out of himself, if only to save Hannah the indignity. This was the first time he’d ever worn dress robes, and he hadn’t even picked them out; his Uncle Raymond had sent them over when Oliver had mentioned the event in one of his letters. They were quite nice-looking, Oliver supposed. Mostly dark blue with a deep green trim, and the cuffs were laced up to the elbow. In lieu of real shoe polish, Oliver had pulled of a nifty shoe shining charm, which proved to be most efficacious. He had washed and combed his hair so it was neat, and he selected the spectacles with the smart black frames. He thought he actually looked like a wizard (minus the hat, but he obviously wasn’t going to wear a hat to a Ball), which was a weird thought to be having. Glancing at his watch yet again, Oliver decided it was time for him to go and find Hannah, and hope that she didn’t change her mind and tell him so very loudly in front of everybody.Passing lots of people along the way, Oliver arrived at the Hall entrance feeling far more comfortable with wearing dress robes – it transpired that he wasn’t the only person to do so (which had been yet another worry plaguing him for the past couple of hours). Besides, he wasn’t especially concerned with looking brilliant – Hannah would certainly look fabulous enough for the both of them. Waiting nervously for her to arrive, Oliver peered down the corridor that must, at some stage, lead to the Teppenpaw commons, and couldn’t suppress a smile as he saw her approach. 'Just as friends, here to have fun,’ he mentally reminded himself.
0
Oliver Abbott
Is Hannah around? (wotw)
99
Oliver Abbott
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 25, 2008 12:29 PM
Woo! [Tag: Irene] by Brett Hodges
Brett spent a full two hours and fifteen minutes getting ready. He wasn't sure what exactly happened to all that time. First, he had showered. There had then been a big to-do involving his hair: highlighting serum, a missing comb, Echo's cutting charm, touching up after Echo's cutting charm, mousse, a drying charm, a straightening charm, the works. Mousse had gotten on his wand, so that had to be polished. Then, there was the matter of socks. It had somehow not occurred to him he only had two pairs of dress socks: one that didn't match (it was just the wrong shade of black), and one that had a hole in the heel. He worried over that for nearly ten minutes before Echo griped, "Seriously, who is going to see the bottom of your foot? Oh! No one. Alternatively, who is going to look at your socks? Oh! No one.""I will," Brett insisted, "I'll know!"
After the sock debacle was figured out with a successful repairo charm, the final 20 minutes of Brett's preparation was spent in tying, adjusting, and retying his bow tie. It was supposed to be a self-tying model, but even that proved pretty complex.
He finished the final adjustments and was surprised to see a young adolescent rather than a little kid looking back at him from the mirror. His shirt was sort of like a cross between a shiny dark purple blouse and the interior of Jedi robes. The Jedi aspect was accented by the vest-like sleeveless robe, which matched his charcoal slacks perfectly. Echo had described it as Anikin Skywalker meeting Princess Leia in Cloud City meeting muggle boy bands...and he was not wrong, especially considering Brett's multishade blond hair.
Brett bounded down the stairs to the common room to meet the esteemed and well loved Irene. When she arrived, he grinned his Cheshire grin at his beautiful girlfriend.
This was so it!
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Brett Hodges
Woo! [Tag: Irene]
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Irene Liddowe
March 25, 2008 2:02 PM
You rang? by Irene Liddowe
Preparations was going much smoother than Irene had expected. Her dress was laid out, she knew the charms for her hair, she had already showered... Everything seemed ready, set, and go! Irene dried her brown hair with a wave of her wand, her mind occupied with thoughts of the ball. Renaye and Josh were going in a group with the Laurie girl she had met. She might drop by to say hi, but, to be honest, Irene wanted to spend some time with her boyfriend tonight. With classes, Brett's soccer training, homework, and quidditch, it was hard to catch more than a few spare minutes where she wasn't worried about what was going on elsewhere. The great thing about the ball was that there was nothing else around for her to worry about.Irene slipped into her green dress, the satin material catching some of the light in the room. The end of the dress fell at her knees. Irene slipped her feet into her small cream colored shoes. Irene waved her hand once over her head, transforming her normally straight hair into loose curls, parted to the side and falling at her shoulders. Another wave of her wand and a light layer of make-up appeared on her face, her blue green eyes now defined and her cheeks highlighted with a tinge of pink. The smallest bit of green powder lay on her eyelids, in her hopes of making her eyes be a little more noiticable. Irene put her mother's ring on its chain and clasped it around her neck, the green stones matching the dress. She put some rhinestone earings, finishing off the look. Taking a look in the mirror, Irene let out a long breath. Her nerves had crept up on her earlier that day. She had no reason to be nervous. Maybe she was just anxious? Probably.
Irene walked down the stairs to the common room, her eyes searching for Brett. There were some people standing around, but her eyes passed over them. It wasn't until she went over the room for a second time that she realized that he was standing right in front of her. Irene's eyebrows jumped up in surprise and she felt a grin spread across her face. He looked so different! Brett looked great!
"Oh my god!" She said, putting a hand on his shoulder and taking in the new attire. "I didn't even reccognize you!" Brett was grinning down at her and she grinned back.
"You ready to head down?" She asked, holding out her hand for him to take.
OOC:
Irene's dress: http://www.davidsprom.com/dresses_detail.jsp?i=1506&g=0&p=1&s=4649 (must learn to do that link thing)
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Irene Liddowe
You rang?
106
Irene Liddowe
0
5
Zack Dill
March 25, 2008 3:42 PM
Me, too. Me and Reality don't get on so well (wotw) by Zack Dill
Zack grinned up at Zoey as she complimented him back. "Thanks," he said, feeling nearly as warm from that as he did from her congratulations over getting Head Boy. Not quite, though - he was still downright euphoric over that.They continued to move to the music and Zack was pretty impressed with himself for not once stepping on her toes. Those lessons had been quite efficacious. He'd had no idea what he was doing when they'd started and now he felt almost comfortable dancing with Zoey. Three months of diligent practice had paid off.
It helped that he was still too pumped over his victory and how pretty Zoey looked that he was completely oblivious to everyone else. It also helped that there were few enough other prefects on the dance floor that nobody was crowding in on them.
Most of all, though, Zack was enjoying dancing with Zoey. If he thought about it, this fact would shock him to no end - dancing not being a geeky enough pastime to normally qualify as fun - but he was too happy to think about it. He just enjoyed it. "This is nice," he told Zoey. "Thank you for being my date."\r\n\r\n
1
Zack Dill
Me, too. Me and Reality don't get on so well (wotw)
40
Zack Dill
0
5
Caedence
March 25, 2008 5:59 PM
But Jae is adorable! And Elly could light up the room :P by Caedence
OOC: My dear Echo, your glasses comments sent me into a fit of uncontrollable giggles, as being a glasses wearer myself, I can so totally identify with that ‘I cant believe my eyes’ gesture. *pushes glasses up* And Elly, love the dress, I wish I could have one like it!!!IC: Caedence smiled as Jae made his presence known in his typical loud fashion. After regaining the lost air from his hug, she said, “Thanks, Jae. You look sharp yourself.” Jae did look pretty good, if not the most dressy here. Hey, he wore a button down shirt, that has to count for something! “It’s odd seeing you without dirt on your face, you know,” she teased.
Then Elly arrived on the scene. Caedence had to admit, her dress was very bright. A bit too bright. But that was Elly for you. She had to be bright and perky. Before she could protest, Caedence snapped a few pictures of the other girl. After a beat, she snapped a few of her “date”. While the term didn’t mean anything romantic in this case, she did ask Jae to go with her. It would be cool hanging out with her friends. Plus she was waiting on tenterhooks for Elly’s newest prank. Even if she hadn’t heard anything about it yet, she knew her friend couldn’t go the year without one or two.
“You don’t look anything like a Christmas ornament,” Caedence protested, “And I highly doubt I’m ’amazingly awesome’ Jae. You guys just aren’t used to me in a dress. Can’t say I like the sensation,” which was a lie, because she really felt like a princess at a fancy ball, “but you look good Elly! The dress is a good color for you, and the glitter is definitely you.”
She laughed at Echo. “Thanks, Echo, you don’t look half bad yourself. Zack-ish, in a cool way.”
As she let Echo steer them to a table, she mouthed at Elly, “M’lady?“ With a teasing smirk.
“Jae,” she said out loud, “I hope you don’t mind my opting out of the slower dances. But I think you could really, literally, tear up the dance floor on the fast ones. So that makes up for it, right? I’m just not that good a dancer. But I most definitely will be sneaking pictures!” She added, brandishing her camera like a weapon, “So the happy couple will have to pose for a few snapshots.” She winked at the two EE’s.
“So, who wants to bet my cat tries to crash the party?” She joked. \r\n\r\n\r\n
0
Caedence
But Jae is adorable! And Elly could light up the room :P
94
Caedence
0
5
Tally Adams and Chrissy Mathers
March 25, 2008 6:55 PM
Dancing the 'Tango' by Tally Adams and Chrissy Mathers
"Come on Chrissy, you look fine, stop being so dramatic." Tally insisted with a smile as she dragged her long time friend into the hall. Tally wore her hair in a loose bun, her eyes lined heavily while the rest of her face was only lightly done. It probably wasn't the 'Prom' look that Jason seemed to think she should do when she had explained to him the ball, but Tally liked how it looked. It was low maintenance, just as she liked it. Her dress was an emerald green. Stacey had said it was the best color to go with her eyes. Tally liked it because it was elegant without being overwhelming. Her straps were thick enough on her shoulders so that she didn't have to worry about them snapping, and the hem long enough not to feel like she was too exposed but still giving her the freedom to roam. It was the perfect dress for her. Simple.
As her eyes evaluated those around her, a frown appeared on her slim face. "Some of these gowns are way too sexual for their age group." Tally commented, noticing a couple of girls who couldn't be any older than second years. "What's up with that?"
Chrissy, who was trailing unhappily behind her friend, glanced in the direction Tally was indicating. "Parents don't give a hoot about their daughter's reputation?" Chrissy suggested, her lip curling in disapproval. Chrissy's blonde curls were pulled up into a braid that wound around her head. Loose curls framed her face giving her an innocent look about her. Almost angelic if it weren't for the scowl. Chrissy's dress was black with a ruffled top. The frame of it gave the impression of a slender body while hiding Chrissy's flaws. Ending at her knees, Chrissy decided on black stockings to keep people from staring at her pale legs. All in all, though her style was low key, she looked rather lovely all put together.
Tally laughed at Chrissy's remark, "It's possible. Though, even now, my dad wouldn't let me walk around in something like that and I'm nearly seventeen. Look at how low cut it is! She doesn't even have a chest to compliment it." Tally shook her head and pulled Chrissy into the hall. "Are you ready for the big dance?"
"Shut it. You are not allowed to even speak that word." Chrissy grumbled, a blush overcoming her face. The dance was the one thing Chrissy was absolutely nervous about because she was so defiant about bringing a date. She didn't see why she being Prefect had to do something she didn't feel comfortable doing. It was ridiculous and unfair. Her obvious uncomfort brought out another laugh in Tally. Tally who didn't have to worry about making a fool out of herself. Tally who seemed overwhelmingly happy since receiving an owl from her 'Aunt' requesting to meet in person. Tally who had her whole life to do as she pleased while Chrissy was forced to marry some guy she was to meet in a month or so. Life was so unfair.
"Stop being so woe, Chrissy." Tally interjected into Chrissy's unpleasant thoughts. "Tonight's a night of fun. The only dance we'll ever get to witness while here at Sonora. Enjoy it. I demand it." Tally exclaimed, giving Chrissy a polite nudge. She took a seat at a table that was mainly filled with some of the older students and pulled Chrissy down next to her. It already seemed as though the Headmaster had started his speech.
"...who would be our new Head Boy and Head Girl in the coming year. It gives me great pleasure to congratulate and welcome to the stage - no, Mr Baxter, I'm afraid you will not be required. Please take your seat again - Mr Zack Dill of Aladren and Miss Jennifer Zucchero of Crotalus."
"Oh thank Merlin." Chrissy suddenly sang out, sagging happily against the table as though a giant weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Tally glanced at her slightly shocked by Chrissy's reaction. Chrissy looked at her, "What? You think I wanted that? Tals, I hate being a Prefect! Head Girl? I'd fight it. Go on strike, I would." Chrissy said, grinning when the food appeared in front of her. She took a large bite and moaned delightfully at the taste. A sudden thought occurred and after taking a moment to swallow the food, she turned her attention back to Tally, "Are you upset you didn't get it?" Tally nearly choked on her own mouthful of food at the question and shook her head.
"Yeah right. I have too much to deal with trying to get into Healer's school than have to worry about everyone else's business too." Tally explained. "Besides, have you seen how some of the first years act these days? Totally mental." Her widened her eyes and nodded her head in a knowing way. Chrissy chuckled but had to agree. They were some of the main reasons why Chrissy didn't want to be a Prefect. She had to deal with the younger students and most of whom ignored her anyway so there was no real purpose to her job. "I hope Mia's okay with it though. I thought she was a sure shoe-in."
"Why, cos she dated Baxter? Mr. Popularity himself?" Chrissy criticized. "She has as much experience with the job as the rest of us. Anyway, I'm glad it was Jennifer."
"Only because she's your roommate and the Quidditch Captain."
"And totally because she's dating the Teppenpaw Captain." Chrissy chimed in, before both girls broke out into laughter. When she calmed down, her hazel eyes gave Tally a look over, "You okay?" Chrissy knew that in certain circumstances, Tally's Empathy got the better of her and often left her drained and/or crying. She remembered the complete meltdown that Michael had told Chrissy's mother about. No matter how happy Tally could seem, there were always the darker emotions running just below the surface.
"Yes, I'm magnificent. And hey, it's time for your dance." Tally pointed out to the dance floor where Zack and Zoey were already starting to dance. "Come on!" Tally stood up and yanked on Chrissy's arm, pulling her up with her. Chrissy gasped at her,
"What're you doing?" Chrissy asked while Tally pulled her towards the dancefloor.
"Dancing."
"Tally!" Chrissy exclaimed through clenched teeth, clearly embarrassed with being out on the dancefloor with another girl. Her face beetred, Chrissy stood in her spot while Tally danced around her.
"What're you so worried about? That people might think us a couple?" Tally asked, grinning as she spun. "Who cares? Lighten up, Chrysanthemum!"
"Hey!" Chrissy said halfheartedly. Watching Tally dance, Chrissy couldn't hide her amusement and after another moment of Tally's prodding began dancing too. Neither of them were really going with the music as it was slower than they would have liked, but it didn't seem to matter all that much as they got into it more. Soon enough, Chrissy was laughing as Tally twirled her.
"We didn't take Ballet for nothing!" Tally shouted at Chrissy as she laughed, the two girls bumping hips and jumping around to their own beat.
"Won't mom be proud?" Chrissy joked, finally letting go of having to look proper and giving in to having some fun before she was forced back home and into her mother's clutches. "Too bad Jason can't be here to see you looking all purty." Chrissy stated, wiggling her eyebrows, always liking to remind Tally of her muggle boyfriend. Tally shrugged, easily not bothered by the knowledge that she was seeing someone who was living a different life.
"Let him dream, I'll be home soon to make it up to him."
Chrissy grinned, "Come on, let's show these youngins what Sonora is all about!"
"Yeah Baby! Whooo!" Tally shouted loudly.
0
Tally Adams and Chrissy Mathers
Dancing the 'Tango'
0
Tally Adams and Chrissy Mathers
0
5
Pepper Jones
March 25, 2008 8:07 PM
Better than being a zero by Pepper Jones
Pepper was a dateless wonder. It wasn’t really surprising, given the disproportionate female/male ratio, and she didn’t really mind being dateless in itself – she wasn’t self-conscious enough and didn’t set any store by the getting of a date, especially in light of the aforementioned ratio – the only thing that stung a little bit was that there was someone she would have liked to have asked her, and he hadn’t. To rub salt into the wound, the girl she could see reflected in their bedroom mirror, was getting ready to go with him instead. Not that she could be too bitter about it. Not having a bitter bone in your body tended to make that difficult. Plus, Briony was a lovely person. She deserved good things to happen to her, and it was nice that – in spite of being a little shy – her roommate hadn’t been overlooked, even in the sea of plenty more female fish.As Pepper entered the Cascade Hall and saw everyone else for the first time she wondered whether it was a good job she didn’t have a date. Her dress for the ball (it certainly could not be described as a ‘ball dress’) was decidedly plain and she wouldn’t have wanted to show a date up (even if she could hope that
She wound her way a tad self-consciously through the hall. Ordinarily, such an outfit would have made her melt into the background, but here, amongst the glittering dresses and sleek grooming, she felt her absolute ordinariness made her stick out like a very plain sore thumb. She would not mind, however. This was still a lovely occasion, and the simplicity of her outfit should not stop her from appreciating the music, the food or how stunning the hall looked. Head up, Pepper strode towards a table. She would have attempted defiant, but she wasn’t sure she could pull it off, and her best no-nonsense face might seem like scowling or sulking in the absence of any naughty small child, so she smiled slightly, hoping to pull off quietly contented. She quietly ate chicken for dinner, enjoying listening to (but not really listening into) the conversations around her and admiring the halls and everyone’s outfits. She then joined a little gaggle watching the prefects dance, grinning at the two girls who weren’t taking it at all seriously. It was reassuring to know that everyone wasn’t treating this like it was the social function of like ever! It meant that those girls who had come alone would be able to simply forget about that in the morning, and not come in for teasing. Speaking of which… She noticed Eaven Valentine, a girl from the first year group she’d helped find their way around, sitting, apparently, alone. Figuring it was better than being alone all by herself, Pepper edged over, not really sure how she was going to introduce the subject of them both being on their own. Luckily, Eaven raised it for her. Without even turning her head, the other girl had seemed to sense another loner at ten paces.
“It had to happen to some of us,” Pepper reasoned. “No point in letting it stop us having fun, eh?” she suggested, hoping that the other girl’s spirits didn’t need bucking, but hoping to be of service if they did.
13
Pepper Jones
Better than being a zero
74
Pepper Jones
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 25, 2008 8:27 PM
Only six times, but who's counting! by Brett Hodges
Irene was... she... her dress didn't have the, uh, the... it was lacking in the upper sleeve area, offering him a brilliant, uninterrupted view of never before seen... what did you call that area below the neck and shoulders but above the... oh, wow. That was something. And the whole legs with the dress and the makeup and the... strapless."Wow," he breathed, feeling suddenly way older than his early teens by like three years and not having seen Irene in all that imagined time. Her reaction to him was what he'd kinda been going for.
"You ready to head down?" she asked.
"Yeah, unless you want to wait for my brain to catch up," he said, taking the offered hand with one and wrapping his other arm around her. "Wow. Did I mention the wow?"
Strapless! Oh! And curls. The hair. How did he not notice the hair already? With the curling and the bouncy soft. Oh! And all the jewelry matched the dress.
"Alright," he shook himself out of his amazed stupor, "Let's go be fabulous."
0
Brett Hodges
Only six times, but who's counting!
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Adam Whitney
March 25, 2008 8:42 PM
Looking for the girl who loves Orange. by Adam Whitney
Adam stood against the far wall in the Entrance hall waiting for his girlfriend to show up. He wasn't in any fancy dress robes, not even in a proper suit. That just wasn't his style. And even if it were, it wasn't as though his family could really afford such things anyway. Instead, Adam was in a button down peach (yes, peach, orange was Dalila's favorite color and peach was as close to that orange as he was going to get) shirt with the arms rolled up and the top couple of buttons undone and a black pair of slacks. Even his shoes were less than impressive in his pair of black and orange (he charmed the white to be orange for the evening) converse shoes. His dark blonde hair was still sporting the semi-just got out of bed look. It wasn't that Adam wasn't trying, but rather, these types of events just weren't his thing. He was mainly here for Dalila.Adam watched the other students pair off or find their group of friends which an amused look on his face. He couldn't remember being that small or that excited by any school event. Not that they really had a lot for him to compare to. Even still, he ought to be somewhat excited or nervous about the night, but he didn't really see why it was such a big deal. So they had to dress up, who cared? So they had to dance, why did it matter? From what he had heard, Muggle schools did this sort of thing all the time. It was about time that Sonora had some socially awkward event for crazy hormonal teens the way that public schools had.
He found himself lost in thought while he waited for his girlfriend to make her appearance. He was thinking about whether or not he had brought enough potion. What would he do if he saw Nicoletta? He had enough of a hard time seeing her in everyday wear that he wasn't sure how he would handle her in evening wear. How would he react to Dalila if she were pushing the future button between the two of them again? Hopefully she would be too distracted by everything else to really pay him any mind.
As though she could read his thoughts, Adam spotted Dalila. He pushed off the wall and made his way through the thrung of students to catch up to her. "Hey Dal, ain'tcho lookin' fine tonight!" He grinned down at her, ducking his head to kiss her lightly. "I think they're going to start soon, so we should probably head right in." Adam suggested. Taking her hand into his, Adam led the way back through the students and into Cascade. He looked around for a moment, trying to find good seats. Spotting a free spot, Adam wrapped an arm around Dalila's shoulders and guided her over to the table. He held out the chair for her and pushed it in when she was seated. "Excited for this?" He asked her as he seated himself, his eyes on the Headmaster waiting for some sign that this thing had officially began.
6
Adam Whitney
Looking for the girl who loves Orange.
69
Adam Whitney
0
5
Jenna Howard
March 25, 2008 8:59 PM
Procrastinators of the world, unite! by Jenna Howard
Jenna didn’t like parties. She hadn’t enjoyed the dull social gatherings her parents had held years ago, nor had she liked the parties her cousin threw nearly every weekend when she had lived with him that one summer. So she was quite surprised when she woke up the morning of the Ball only to discover that she was actually excited about it.It was ridiculous, really. It wasn’t as if she had a date, and besides, she was supposed to be mad at Annette for buying a dress that had to have cost more than the one-hundred dollars Jenna had sent her to buy it. Eventually, Jenna would discover the actual cost of the dress and pay the girl back the difference. She’d even written to Hester to make sure that her daughter actually listened to Jenna, but obviously that had failed.
Going about her regular business that morning, she even managed to get a head start on her homework, when suddenly she realized she was running late. She went down to the Hall for a quick lunch, and then the preparations began. Really, she tried to talk herself out of it, but could not fight off the part of her that felt, well, giddy. If this was the one Sonoran ball she was ever going to go to, she might as well have fun with it. So as soon as she got out of the shower, she immediately began to work her lank brown hair into a French twist. After she was done twisting, up her hair, there was still some left up at the top, so she took a leaf out of Jordanna’s book and made some small curls at the top. Using the simplest of spells to make sure that the hairdo would last the night (wandwork wasn’t her forte) she deemed her hair done.
Next was makeup, something Jenna normally wasn’t a fan of. Annette was well aware of this, and had owled over make up along with the dress. Luckily the things came with directions, otherwise she never would have known what half the stuff was for. So she put some of the make up around her eyes, frowned at the pink eye shadow, but left it there anyway. A little red lipstick, and she became officially sick of the makeup and gave up.
With the addition of pearl earrings and a matching vintage pearl choker, she put on her red dress and would have walked out without her shoes, had she not stepped on her dress and almost ripped the thing completely. Blushing even though she was fairly sure nobody had seen that, she went back into her dorm for the ridiculous four-inch open-toe heels that Annette had purchased for her. She would have said no, but they did come with comfort spells to make sure her feet didn’t hate her tomorrow morning, and she had to agree that with her petite frame, she needed the height. Jenna was sure she didn’t break five-foot-eight, even with the high heels.
Certain that she had everything this time, she arrived at the Ball on time. All of Sonora really seemed to clean up well. She felt especially old, looking at all the underclassmen gather together. Was her sixth year really coming to an end? But her thoughts were diverted yet again when the Headmaster announced the Head Boy and Girl. She sighed with relief when her name wasn’t called, glad that she had one less thing to worry about. Poor Jennifer was going to be really busy next year, what with RATS and Quidditch and now this, but somehow Jenna was sure her roommate could handle it.
As always, the meal in Cascade Hall was amazing. Jenna had no idea what she would do once she graduated and would have to cook for herself. She was terrible with cooking spells, and being spoiled with delicious Sonora food would only make the transition to her own cooking all the more difficult. Jenna ought to get used to eating plain, healthy food, she should stop indulging herself, she should -
"Could you pass the filet mignon, please?" she found herself asking the person next to her. Tonight was a party, she ought to have fun, or at least that was what she was trying to convince herself. She could begin the spartan diet tomorrow.
0
Jenna Howard
Procrastinators of the world, unite!
46
Jenna Howard
0
5
Matt Santoro
March 25, 2008 9:22 PM
Let's get this party started. (Mere) by Matt Santoro
Matt stood in his dorm for a moment, fixing up his hair to get it the right length of spikey-ness. His brother (after many many many annoying nudges from Matt) had decided to wear his hair differently from Matt in the hopes that they would be told apart for the evening since everything else about them would remain the same. He checked himself in his robes to make sure they were sitting right on his frame. These dress robes were as natural to him as his wand was. He wore them at least twice a year for family events, they were comfortable almost.Normally, Matt would have worn a colorful shirt beneath the robes that would have stuck out and called to everyone's attention. Well, actually, having a colorful shirt was pretty normal. Jake often went for red while Josh went for a green. Matt loved oranges and blues. He thought those really screamed out to people. But, since he wasn't sure what color Meredith was wearing, he didn't want to clash and decided to keep his shirt black. Clean, crisp, simple. Not like Matt at all, but it could be easily changed once he figured out Meredith's colors.
It was time to go. Matt pulled on his shoes, grabbed the small box his mother had sent up for him, he made his way out of his dorm and into the gardens on his way to Cascade Hall. He wasn't really sure why he couldn't just meet up with Meredith in the commonroom since, well, it seemed easier that way, but he figured she needed things to do with Elly and possibly Echo that he wasn't really concerned about it.
Now in the hall, Matt spotted Elly and Echo easily enough, but couldn't see Meredith in the group. He actually blinked when he saw Caedence though. He never thought he'd see the day that she actually looked the part of a girl, but he was still too preoccupied with finding his date to really give anyone a proper look.
Matt grinned when he finally spotted his favorite Pecari blonde. "Hey Mere!" He greeted cheerfully. He held out the small box that contained a beautifully put together corsage. The centerpiece of the corsage was a rose that would change colors to match the outfit of the female who tied the lace around her wrist. "Mama says we should always have gifts for our ladies." Matt explained with a slight shrug. "You look great, by the way." His mama also said that complimenting a date it was the respectful thing to do. But he wasn't about to come out and say that to Meredith. Besides, he really did think she looked great even when she wasn't dressed up.
0
Matt Santoro
Let's get this party started. (Mere)
0
Matt Santoro
0
5
Irene
March 25, 2008 10:45 PM
It's okay. I skipped Kindergarten. by Irene
A blush crept to her cheeks at Brett's words. She had been hoping that she had pulled off the Going-to-a-ball look, but she wasn't expecting a reaction like Brett gave. She couldn't say she was disappointed, though. When she asked him to head down she really couldn't help but grin at his response. Irene was trying to put a finger on what exactly it was that was different, though it didn't take her long. His hair was cut and done all nicely. She could tell he had really put out for tonight. Irene smiled as he put an arm around her. The night was already holding an optimistic promise."Wow. Did I mention the wow?"
Irene gave his hand a squeeze and let out a short shy laugh. "Maybe once," she said.
"Alright," he said, looking like he was trying to focus. "Let's go be fabulous."
"Let's." Irene grinned and held onto his hand as they made their way towards the Hall. Thinking ahead to the dance, Irene realized she wasn't as sure quite how to dance. Well, she knew how she danced, but she wasn't sure whether or not it was very good... Irene decided it didn't matter as much. She wasn't going to be bothered by it. Irene wanted to have fun with Brett and her friends tonight. It didn't matter if she was actually good at dancing, just as long as she had a good time with it, right? One thing she was semi-confident on was the slow dances. There wasn't much to it, was there? It wasn't going to be one of those waltzes or something... right? From the one wedding she had been to, all that was really required for the slow dance was arms around waist and arms around shoulders. Oh Merlin... She sincerely hoped she had this right. It was probably best to give forewarning.
"Hey, no laughing on the dance floor, okay?" She said as they approached the entrance. "I've never really danced a lot, so I'm not really sure how I'm going to do."
0
Irene
It's okay. I skipped Kindergarten.
0
Irene
0
5
Kiva Kijewski
March 25, 2008 11:03 PM
And quite the (re)Introduction by Kiva Kijewski
Kiva was already in the hall when most of the students began to arrive. She felt a little bit silly wearing her dress. She had always been a simple woman with her choices for her clothing. Jeans, shorts, cargo pants, capris, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc. She didn't like the idea of sticking out. Of being noticed. It just wasn't her style. And, although everyone there that evening would be dressed to impress so that she would hardly be noticed, Kiva still felt like she would be stared at for even believing she could wear a dress. Her dress was a loyal blue in color and strapless. The top portion was cut tight across her body, but flowed how once it hit her hips. The skirt portion was long and ended at her ankles where her black heels could be seen. She charmed them to prevent her feet from hurting while the night wore on.Though the ball was something to get completely dolled up for, Kiva still wore only enough makeup that was obvious but didn't cover up her freckles or take away from anything else that people usually enjoyed about her features. Her lips were lightly glossed in ruby red color making her lips look fuller than they naturally were. Her cheeks dusted with blush giving her a warmth that made a great combination with her glowing skin. Her eyes were lined in a finer black color that made her hazel eyes pop out. But the most noticeable difference in Kiva's appearance wasn't in the clothes she wore or the makeup that inhanced her beauty, but was with her hair. Her normally wild curls were smoothed out leaving a sleek shiny and completely straight black hair behind. Her hair's length was rather startling in comparison to when it was still in it's natural state of curls. When curly, her hair ended at her shoulders, but now that it was straight, her hair ended well past her shoulders. Nearly six inches longer in length.
She ran a hand delicately through her hair, not quite used to it in this form, but dropped it after a few moments. She paused in front of the stage, watching Simon interact with his family and seeing Manfred chat very briefly with Regina. Kiva could remember her meeting with Regina and how intimidated she had been with the woman. Of course, Kiva had been twenty-five and a new teacher at the time. Hopefully, time showed how mature Kiva had become over the years.
Kiva took a seat just as Manfred took to the students. It was going to be quite the celebration tonight. Not only were they having the Ball that would bring back old traditions, but they were also anouncing who the new Head Boy and Girl would be. Manfred left nothing to the imagination and quickly gave out the news. Kiva clapped happily as Zack was anounced Head Boy. Perhaps she was a bit biased with her excitement, but Kiva really was proud that Zack being given such a title. An Aladren as well as one of her favorite students (despite him not technically being her student any longer).
Things settled back down again once the food arrived. Kiva, half eating and half watching the students, turned to Manfred when he asked for her to pass something. "The what?" She asked somewhat rudely. Blushing when she realized her words, Kiva looked to where he was pointing and grabbed the plate for him. "Sorry." She apologized, handing him the plate. "Everything seems to be going well thus far. Let's hope they continue to behave themselves, right?" She somewhat joked, smiling at the Headmaster.
6
Kiva Kijewski
And quite the (re)Introduction
5
Kiva Kijewski
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 25, 2008 11:10 PM
Really? I skip sometimes... usually Charms. by Brett Hodges
"Hey, no laughing on the dance floor, okay?" She said as they approached the entrance. "I've never really danced a lot, so I'm not really sure how I'm going to do.""Oh, no, no. There will be lots and lots of laughing. I guarantee it," Brett teased before clarifying, "Because when you see me dance, it will not be possible to stop. The laughter will bubble out like an uncontrollable bubble creature from the deep. Trust me. It will rock the monster socks. Next to me you will be like a graceful swan who took ballet for 70 years and then choreographed the... hey," he stopped his ramblings, having officially entered Cascade Hall. "Check out the decs. I like."
0
Brett Hodges
Really? I skip sometimes... usually Charms.
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 25, 2008 11:31 PM
*d'oh!* Regs. by Brett Hodges
[OOC: Sorry that last bit was so short. I somehow didn't notice until I posted it. Here's another paragraph.]Brett glanced around. Echo, Elly, Jae, and Caedence had already found each other and a table. He hadn't actually talked with Irene about who they'd be sitting with tonight. Echo and the gang were a possibility, but so were Renaye and Josh Warren. They were probably around here somewhere too. Ah, there, with some people Brett didn't know, but whom he recognized as first year Crotali. Normally, Brett and Crotali were a non-match, but Renaye had been plenty nice to him and he was going to surrender to Irene on this one.
"So, where shall we set up camp?" he posited. "On the one side we have Echo's group, where when Saul isn't saying something random or showing off for Briony, then Elly is plotting, Caedence is scaring people, or Echo is freaking out for no reason, which can be fun too. On the other side, we have Renaye and Josh and all the new and interesting family secrets they may or may not reveal over the course of an evening. Also quite tempting... and probably more likely to have space at the table."
0
Brett Hodges
*d'oh!* Regs.
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Irene (some input from Warren Twins)
March 26, 2008 12:03 AM
*overlooking* I skipped breakfast yesterday? by Irene (some input from Warren Twins)
"Oh, no, no. There will be lots and lots of laughing. I guarantee it," Brett teased before clarifying, "Because when you see me dance, it will not be possible to stop. The laughter will bubble out like an uncontrollable bubble creature from the deep. Trust me. It will rock the monster socks. Next to me you will be like a graceful who took ballet for 70 years and then choreographed the... Irene wanted to laugh as Brett continued on about his dancing, but she figured laughing at him might not be the best way to get him to dance. He didn't seem to mind too much about it, though."Check out the decs. I like." Irene looked around. She hadn't even noticed that they had reached the Hall. The decorations that lay around their beloved Cascade were amazing. It was completely transformed into an area even more beautiful than the normal hall.
"Wow," she said, "It's great!" Irene looked around, taking in the surroundings and spotted a figure in a bright yellow dress with blonde hair. Renaye, she noticed, was looking great in the dress she had showed he and Josh was there! He must have found a date! That was good. She would have hated for him to miss this...
"So, where shall we set up camp?" he posited. "On the one side we have Echo's group, where when Saul isn't saying something random or showing off for Briony, then Elly is plotting, Caedence is scaring people, or Echo is freaking out for no reason, which can be fun too. On the other side, we have Renaye and Josh and all the new and interesting family secrets they may or may not reveal over the course of an evening. Also quite tempting... and probably more likely to have space at the table."
"That," she said, "Is a good question..." Irene looked around at the surrounding people. She would love to sit with all of them, but that probably wasn't going to be happening. The twins waved to Irene from her table. Irene knew that Brett would probably want to chill with the others for a bit, and to be honest, she did too. There would be plenty of time for family chill time during the night. Irene waved back at her and gestured that they would catch up a little later. Renaye nodded and yelled across the Hall,
"Looking good, Nini!" Irene closed her eyes for the briefest of moments, praying to God that Brett hadn't heard. She threw a glare at Renaye, who knew perfectly well not to use her nickname in company. Hoping to change the topic as soon as possible, Irene pointed over to the Pecari table with her free hand, the other enclosed in Brett's,
"I'll catch up with them later. How about we chill with the Pecari's for a bit?"
0
Irene (some input from Warren Twins)
*overlooking* I skipped breakfast yesterday?
0
Irene (some input from Warren Twins)
0
5
Eavan
March 26, 2008 2:27 AM
Zero to Hero? by Eavan
Upon hearing an answer Eavan finally tore her eyes away from the dance floor where they had given up on finding her brother and his date and ha instead rested on two of the older girls dancing in high spirits across the floor. It was far more entertaining."Pepper!" Eavan said, recalling the redhead's name only after recognizing the face. Eavan smiled. They didn't know each other well, but Eavan always felt that if they had talked more, they would've become good friends. She looked Pepper up and down, for some reason oddly interested in what everyone was wearing. After spending all this time getting ready for the ball herself, she was intrigued by how everyone else transformed. Pepper's outfit was oddly plain and reminded vaguely of the dresses she had to wear when she was seven, but at this point Eavan preferred it to her own. At least, it looked more comfortable; and Pepper probably didn't have to resist the urge to yank her the top of her dress up every five second because she thought she might flash the crowd.
"Dates don't mean much if you know how to have fun. I was just waiting for a faster song, so I wouldn't feel stupid trying to waltz around the floor with an invisible partner." Eavan's smile turned into a grin. "I wasn't really expecting to be asked anyways, what with the ratio the way it is."
0
Eavan
Zero to Hero?
0
Eavan
0
5
Dalila Bastet
March 26, 2008 4:00 AM
Oh, that's me! by Dalila Bastet
Dalila hadn't wanted to finish getting ready early and then sit around all fancied up and just wait, so she had decided to waste an hour or two doing varied things. She started off studying for CATs, then progressed to indulging Nut in a long scratch, then took a very long shower, ending in her cranking up the ancient Wizarding Wireless that Dalila had gotten for six sickles at a Bazaar in Cairo that summer and dancing around singing badly to old tunes and trying to get Lexi super excited for the ball.With an hour left, Dalila finally began pulling her rarely used make-up out as well as the list of beauty spells that her mother had helped her find; and oddly enough a few from her grandmother that would come in handy. Still humming to some wizarding band from the 70s, she began the arduous process of making herself pretty.
Giving up fairly quickly on make-up, Dalila instead spent her time trying to do something with her hair and finally just pulled it back in a curly/wavy bun thing (two of the spells she used on her had made it do something odd and the bun was the only thing that masked it) and just smoothed out the front. With only five minutes to spare, Dalila yanked her dress from her closet and changed, finally pulling on her shoes and staring at herself in the mirror.
She was a little disappointed that she couldn't find an orange dress she liked (apparently it wasn't a very popular color unless you were four or a hooker), but had settled nicely for a shimmery multi-colored dress with thin straps that reached just below her knees. She loved it despite its minimal orange-ness.
She practically skipped all the way to Cascade Hall (and silently thanked her grandmother for the comfort spell for her heels)and was almost out of breath when she reached the hallway outside Cascade Hall where she was supposed to meet Adam.
It took her a moment to find Adam in the throng of students milling about the entrance, but finally spotted him when he turned in her direction. Her mouth dropped open in surprise when she saw what he was wearing. Orange! Even his shoes! Dalila stifled a squeal of delight and instead just grinned and kissed Adam with as much fervor as she could in the millisecond that their lips touched. She couldn't deny her luck at having a guy like Adam; it wasn't every guy who was willing to wear peach for a girl. And she liked it better that he was dressed down. No tuxes and diamonds for them.
Dalila happily let her boyfriend lead her to a table and was pleasantly surprised when he pulled out a chair for her. It wasn't every day that Dalila felt like a princess. She couldn't control her smile or her eyes as they roamed the Hall, going from decorations to trying to spot people she knew. Her eyes found Jake and after a brief glimpse turned her eyes to Adam preferring to ignore her Quidditch captain while he was so put-together.
"I'm really excited. I've never actually been to a dance bef--" She was cut off by the start of the Headmaster's speech. She clapped politely when the new Head Boy and Girl were announced and a moment later the food appeared. Dalila had the feeling that she had missed lunch and eagerly piled a steak and some veggies onto her plate.
"You excited?" Dalila asked, trying to start up the conversation where they left off before the speech.
0
Dalila Bastet
Oh, that's me!
60
Dalila Bastet
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 26, 2008 9:40 AM
I skipped <i>to</i> breakfast. by Brett Hodges
"You mean we'll catch up with them later," he corrected Irene. He fully intended to do his part catching up with the quote-unquote in-laws. Brett waved to Renaye and Josh and he and Irene blazed a trail towards their Pecari group."Can you believe this?" he marveled, watching the crowd milling around in their dresses, suits, and robes. He pointed toward the stage where Simon Tellerman, the gardener, was setting up music equipment under the appreciative eye of his prairie elf groupees. "Oh, yeah! I forgot Saul's uncle is in the band. I think he's related to the other members, too. This is gonna be awesome."
[OOC: We can kick it over to the Pecari group thread anytime now, except for the fuzzy time complication that the characters haven't quite reached the table yet... so we need to wait for them to catch up].
0
Brett Hodges
I skipped <i>to</i> breakfast.
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Irene
March 26, 2008 12:06 PM
Smell of pancakes draw you in? by Irene
OOC: We'll walk really slowly.IC: "You mean we'll catch up with them later," Irene laughed and rolled her eyes.
"You knew what I meant," she said. "Pronouns..." They made their way to the Pecari's table. Irene saw all of the people she usually saw in class, crowded into the hall, looking their best. She saw Ebony, Jae, Talitha, and other people she reccognized from classes. Everyone looked so stunning tonight! Her eyes traveled towards the stage and just as she was about to ask who was performing, Brett said,
"Oh, yeah! I forgot Saul's uncle is in the band. I think he's related to the other members, too. This is gonna be awesome."
"I'm so excited!" She said, standing on her toes to see the full view of the stage. The part of the ball she was looking the most forward to was the actual dancing part. Even though she was the most unsure of it, she couldn't wait to get out there.
"Everyone looks so nice tonight," she said, returning her gaze to the people around. "The day has finally come where we see Caedence in a dress!" What was it about these balls that made everyone feel like they had to look their best? Irene wasn't even sure why she had done so much for it. It was probably for the impression she gave to others. It was the one night where she could dress up as much as she wanted. The night also had that air of opportunity. It was usually at these things where big things happened. She wondered how many people were waiting for that one person to save them a dance tonight, or how many people, like herself, just wanted some time with the people they cared most for.
"So," she said, "What do you think is going to be the best part of the night?"
0
Irene
Smell of pancakes draw you in?
0
Irene
0
5
Elly
March 26, 2008 1:08 PM
What am I? A chandelier? by Elly
Elly nearly jumped when Echo spoke – she hadn’t noticed him arrive (the surprise of Caedence looking so elegant probably had something to do with it). She turned to face him, and took in his attire with a swift sweeping glance. He looked nice – very smart, especially for Echo, and the turquoise looked good too (Elly had been wondering how such a bright colour would look one someone who usually wore more natural tones). “You look great, too,” she told him, smile still fixed firmly in place.“You don’t look anything like a Christmas ornament,” Caede reassured Elly. “And the glitter is definitely you.”
Elly laughed and glanced sheepishly at Echo. “Brett said I should wear something sparkly,” she told him. He was the one who would have to put up with her all night. If he hated how she looked, at least she could lay the blame on someone else.
Echo told them he’d already found a table, and he offered Elly his arm. Grinning like a fool at being treated like the sort of lady she definitely was not, Elly moved to take it, but then stopped and withdrew. “Hang on,” she said, and rather ungracefully bent down to remove her shoes. Once the daft things were off her feet, Elly held them in one hand, and linked the other arm around Echo’s. “Okay, lead away,” she said, ignoring Caedence’s teasing. She didn’t know whether or not Caedence and Jae would be sitting with them, but seeing as they followed behind, Elly assumed they would.
It was odd walking arm-in-arm with Echo, Elly pondered. Apart form the odd occasion where she forgot herself in a moment of excitement and hugged him, she usually avoided physical contact so as not to make Echo uncomfortable. She glanced surreptitiously at her friend, scrutinising his features for any sign of discomfort, but she couldn’t perceive any indications that he was going to freak out. Well as long as he was okay then she was, too; she’d just have to keep an eye out, just in case the crowds got too much.
As they approached the table, Elly saw Brett and Irene, and waved them over to join. She hadn’t seen Meredith yet, but she’d no doubt show up somewhere at some point. Once they’d all sat down, Caedence said, “So, who wants to bet my cat tries to crash the party?”
“When I left the dorm your damn cat was trying to eat my puffskein,” she replied with a rueful smile. Then, turning to Echo, she slipped a hand into her bag and produced one pack of fireworks. “Here," she said quietly, leaning in so nobody would over hear. “Can you put these in your pocket or something? We’ll need them for later.” She winked. “I’ve got some for Meredith, too, and Saul, if he wants them. This is going to be great!”
0
Elly
What am I? A chandelier?
0
Elly
0
5
Cecily
March 26, 2008 1:30 PM
Disgusted is closer by Cecily
“Thank you. You look nice, too,” Cecily told Joshua, sitting down beside him. She smiled demurely at Laurie’s compliment to her dress. Cecily thought about offering to pass on her wardrobe designers’ details, but thought better of it for two reasons. Firstly because she got the impression that Laurie’s family wouldn’t be able to afford tailor-made gowns, and secondly because it might come across as insulting Laurie’s own dress, which Cecily didn’t intend to do. “But you really put effort into yours,” she said, in what she hoped was a bolstering manner. “I have no creativity.”
Renaye and Zane Cooper joined them soon afterwards, and seeing as Renaye spoke to Cecily, it was only polite to speak back to her. “Thank you,” she replied, a little more curtly than before. “You look nice too, Renaye.” It wasn't as truthful a comment than when it had been uttered to Josh, but it still held some merit; the blonde girl certainly looked less feral than usual, and it would have been churlish of Cecily not to return the compliment. Despite her odd opinions and unseemly behavior, Miss Warren was still a pureblooded witch, after all, and Cecily would continue to treat her as such. Though she couldn’t help rolling her eyes when Zane lost his tongue. She didn’t look that great. Boys could be so stupid.
“So who else are we waiting for?” Cecily asked the group at large, drumming her manicured fingernails on the tabletop. If this was the level of interest of this sorry group, she would definitely desert them before the evening was out.
\r\n\r\n
0
Cecily
Disgusted is closer
0
Cecily
0
5
Laurie
March 26, 2008 2:49 PM
Disgruntled much? by Laurie
It seemed, at last, that the entire party had congregated. Well, everyone except for one. Laurie tried not to let it bother her. The Headmaster had only just finished his speech after all, and the eating had only just begun. Maybe Talen intended to join them after the meal. She let her gaze settle on Renaye and Zane; there was definitely something brewing there. Even if they were only twelve, stranger things had happened than meeting your intended early in life. Zane plainly could barely take his eyes off of Renaye, who, despite her rarity in wearing dresses, looked like she was born to it.“But you really put effort into yours. I have no creativity.”
Laurie gave Cecily a crooked grin. "Thanks, Cecily." Somehow she doubted the girl lacked creativity; it was just that Laurie's efforts were more of the handyman's sort, and not the color-coordinating, arrange-furniture-just-this-way, kind of creativity. Still though, she recognized the kindness behind her words, and she was grateful.
"Ah, well, everyone's here, actually," she admitted to Cecily's next query. "Except for Talen. I wouldn't worry, though," she rushed on to reassure, an action that was really more for herself than anyone else. "I'm sure he'll be down soon enough. We should probably just enjoy the dinner."
She lectured herself mentally to not get down. Even if Talen didn't show up, she was here with her friends. There was going to be music, dancing, and plenty of future anecdote-making. And besides, here was a great chance for her to get to know everyone a little better.
"I have an idea. How about we play Desert Island?" She continued on, explaining the rules. "The scenario is that you're on a deserted island, and you're only allowed to bring three things. What three things would you bring- and, just to make it interesting, none of the three are allowed to be your wand." She gave Renaye a wink from across the table. "Raye, you're up first. What would you bring?"
0
Laurie
Disgruntled much?
0
Laurie
0
5
Josiah
March 26, 2008 2:55 PM
Juuuuuuuust greeeeeeat..... TAG:Alexis by Josiah
This couldn’t get any worse. Not only did no girls answer his letter, his mother found out he didn’t have a date (did she have spies?). So, while his mom and his aunt got together for the afternoon, what did they discuss? Yeah, the fact that he was dateless. And coincidentally the fact that Alexis had no date either.Why couldn’t Hyana be here? He would just love to see her wearing that dress he bought her, hair and makeup all done, pretty for the ball. And he, her date! He wished he had told her how much he liked her. In fact, he wished he admitted it to himself before she was gone. She hadn’t owled him yet. Did she even miss him? Did she ever think about him? Did she have a… boyfriend?
He mussed his already untamable red hair in frustration. All right, so now he was stuck, dateless, having to go with his stupid cousin! This was going to stink. And he couldn’t even hook up with Irene, Elly, Caedence or any of their dates! His mother ordered him to make sure that Alexis had a good time, and he was sure she told Alexis the same thing. Darn and double darn!
So here he was in Cascade hall, shoved, yet again, into a tux. He was having serious flashbacks of the balls and parties his parents made him go to. He remembered being paraded around, being shown off like some show dog to be judged. He remembered his parents rattling off all of his blood ties and the good qualities about him. He was being shown around for a betrothal since he was eight! How stupid was that?
And of course, he learned just this midterm that he was to be paired with Chrysi Silverleaf. He barely remembered her. He only met her twice. Once, as a little blonde girl with pigtails, not yet old enough to fully grasp that she was an heiress to a fortune, wearing a little pink dress with a ballerina-like skirt. The second time was at a ball, when they were both first years in school. She had sapphire blue hair, a blue sparkly dress, and a bigger attitude than Alexis had. He distinctly remembered her pouring her cup of sparkling grape juice over his head when he said that he thought she would look great in forest green. She screamed something at him along the lines of, “Don’t you know anything about fashion? Green is so not in!”
And of course, he also learned that the Alexis and Chrysi were both good friends. So anything that happened at this ball would go straight to Chrysi. And, since Chrysi went to the same school as Hyana, to Hyana as well.
He scowled as he walked over to his redheaded cousin. “Lexi.” He growled, “Mother says I have to stick near you. How about we grab a seat and get this over as fast as possible, ’cause I know you like this even less than I do.”
\n
0
Josiah
Juuuuuuuust greeeeeeat..... TAG:Alexis
0
Josiah
0
5
Pepper
March 26, 2008 3:08 PM
Is anyone in need of rescuing? by Pepper
Pepper felt the flick of Eaven's eyes up and down her, but tried not to let any discomfort show on her face. She knew it was a natural reaction - she'd been staring at everyone else's dresses - and Eaven taking in what she was wearing wasn't a form of criticism, even if that up-down flick of the eyes always felt like a judgement."You look lovely," she complimented the other girl. She knew this put Eaven in the slightly awkward position of having to either lie by returning the compliment or seem rude by failing to, but she felt that her own lack of sophistication shouldn't mean that Eaven was denied compliments that she rightly deserved. She almost added 'ever so grown up', but was aware that it was impossible to say without sounding patronising, even though she would mean it genuinely. It would also seem somewhat strange, she thought, coming from someone in her current attire. With her little round face and a dress that looked more like she was ready for a round of pass the parcel and a serving of jelly and ice cream than a formal dance, she was sure any stranger asked would think Eaven older than her.
"Poor invisible princes," Pepper smiled, "they always get such a rough deal at parties." She hoped Eaven didn't think her comment too strange. She was just too used to whimsying everything up a few notches and making up stories to be able to help adding fairy tale-ish elements in like they were real. "But I wouldn't be much good at formal dancing, visible partner or not, so I have to agree. Did you do any dancing when you were younger?" she asked.
OOC for any confused Americans, I mean 'jelly' in the British English sense - what, I believe, you refer to as 'jello'. I am not referring to some bizarre dish concocted of jam and ice cream. Although, with certain flavours, that could be quite nice...
0
Pepper
Is anyone in need of rescuing?
0
Pepper
0
5
Raoul
March 26, 2008 3:12 PM
And her adoring fanclub? by Raoul
OOC: Sorry about the small bit of godmodding, just wanted to move our charries forward a bit to their table.IC:Raoul blushed with an embarrassed smile. She thought he looked handsome? “Merci, and you do look like a princess!” he said.
"I'm so sorry I forgot to tell you that I was meeting with friends to get ready beforehand. I hope you didn't think I forgot about you or was standing you up or anything."
“Oh non!” He assured her, “I asked around and found out where you were. It is my fault. The guy is supposed to escort the girl, non? That is how it is done in the books. I should’ve gotten togezzer with you and made a plan.”
With a small laugh he said, “But, hey, the past is the past, and that is the past! Time for the now. A lovely dinner, a lovely dance, and my lovely Princess.” He grabbed her hand and led her to the nearest table. Taking the chair out for her, he seated her before sitting down himself.
“So you said that you were getting ready with others? Who? Guys, we do not need much time to get ready. Maybe the hair, the older boys wear cologne, and the clothes, but that is it. You girls, you take forever. With the hair, the makeup, everything! I do not mean to sound harsh, but I do not get it. I do not think I ever will.” He smiled.
He ignored the Headmaster’s speech, clapping politely for the two people he did not know who were chosen as head boy and girl. He had heard rumors that the Zack boy was crazy, but he didn’t know about that for sure. It was something about him thinking the Golden Snitch was an alien. Odd, but he doubted it was true. Who would think of something so silly?
Raoul jumped slightly as, with a soft pop, the food arrived. He didn’t know what to eat, there were so many things around. Pouring himself a bit of pumpkin juice, he let Holly serve herself.
“So, what about the dancing? I am not very good, myself.” He admitted, “But what about you? Do you dance well?” \n
52
Raoul
And her adoring fanclub?
125
Raoul
0
5
Alexis
March 26, 2008 3:23 PM
*choosing not to speak* by Alexis
Alexis hated this. She really did. She loved balls. They were probably her favorite past time over the summer. However, she never had pressure to find a date. And she never wanted to come to any ball forced to stick with her awful cousin. She couldn't even begin to imagine what people would say!This was probably one of the only times Alexis wished she had left that stupid mudblood alone. Then she would've taken Josiah to the ball, and Alexis would be free to do as she pleased. Of course, that wasn't an option now, and she would just have to make the best of this situation. At the thought, a smirk crossed her face. Yes, maybe this would be fun after all. After all, she recalled her Auntie telling Josiah to make sure her niece had a good time.
She was waiting in the Cascade Hall for Joey, being perfectly on time because of her preparations with Holly and the others. She looked around the hall to see Holly already with Raoul, and Alexis felt her face grow hot with anger. That should've been her with Raoul, not Holly.
“Lexi." she heard an annoying voice say, pulling her out of her angry thoughts. Turning her head sharply, her red hair smacked her cousin in the face. “Mother says I have to stick near you. How about we grab a seat and get this over as fast as possible, ’cause I know you like this even less than I do.” Silently, Alexis moved to a seat and smoothed out her dress before sitting. She had planned to remain silent all night long, then tell her mother and auntie how awful Josiah was to her, that he needed to go to more balls to see how to behave, etc., but she had to say something before long. She knew just how much Josiah would enjoy the silent treatment from her.
"I got your letter." she said conversationally, eyes dancing angrily behind her fake smile. "I made sure that Hyana got it. Has she responded?"
0
Alexis
*choosing not to speak*
0
Alexis
0
5
Adam B.
March 26, 2008 5:57 PM
Especially at a magical school by Adam B.
"You're welcome and thanks" Adam replied. Okay, that sounded dumb and awkward and strange but when someone said "thank you" the correct reply was "you're welcome" and when someone gave you a compliment, the correct reply was to thank them. (Unless you were like Chelsea and then the reply tended to be something like "I know".)As they entered the Hall, he was suddenly hit by how many people there were there. Adam began to feel anxious and wished that the Draught of Peace he'd made would kick in soon. What if they were laughing at him or at Talitha for being with him? The former didn't thrill him but the latter would really bug him. But she'd said she wanted to be there with him. Adam just hoped he wouldn't embarass or disappoint her (or his family for that matter, but Talitha was more important to him than the members of his family that cared about such things.)
He was shaken out of his thoughts by the little squeeze Talitha gave him.
“Where would you like to sit?”
"Um..over there." Adam replied pointing discretely to a spot that was sort of out of the way. It would be where he wouldn't be so in the spotlight. Plus, it would be quieter so they could talk during the fast numbers. Adam was rather looking forward to the slow ones though. If Talitha wanted, he'd dance to all of them.
11
Adam B.
Especially at a magical school
78
Adam B.
0
5
Renaye and some of Josh
March 26, 2008 6:08 PM
I hope we're not that bad. by Renaye and some of Josh
Cecily's return compliment seemed to loosen tension, even in the smallest measure, for the night so far. Raye didn't want to have to waste any energy in their little dispute tonight. Renaye thanked her and soon spotted Zane. Renaye grinned as he approached them. She noticed the dark robes and the subtle lack of friz from his mass of curls. Maybe she was weird, but she thought the whole bunch-of-curls thing was super cool. As he greeted the group, she noticed his eyes seemed to be stuck on her. Renaye felt the color rise into her face. It didn't help the blushing matter when Zane complimented her the way he did. All the same, she could help but grin."Thanks, Zane," she said, smiling back at him. "Looks like dress robes suit you."
Renaye looked around for whoever else was expected to be coming. She spotted Irene and Brett enter the Hall (finger entwined, she noticed). She waved over at them and Irene gestured that they would catch up. Renaye understood and gestered that she did. She tapped Josh on the shoulder and whispered,
"Look how nice she looks!" Getting a sudden idea, Renaye projected to her, "Looking good, Nini!" Irene closed her eyes for a brief moment and sent a glare over at her. Quickly trying to draw Brett's attention away, she pointed elsewhere. Renaye laughed softly to herself. Josh leaned over to her and said,
"She's going to kill you, you know..." Renaye shrugged. She looked around the table and noticed that Laurie's date was still missing. Josh looked to have noticed too, his light blue eyes going from Laurie to the entrance every once in a while. He looked like he had noticed Cecily's glamorous attire too... However, Laurie spoke up, "I'm sure he'll be down soon enough. We should probably just enjoy the dinner." Renaye nodded and took a seat, patting the one beside her as a gesture to Zane.
"I have an idea. How about we play Desert Island?" Renaye groaned at the suggestion that she go first.
"Okay, okay..." She contemplated her objects for a moment and continued on, "My broom, my brother, and my bathing suit. How's that? Shooting it back to you, Laurie."
0
Renaye and some of Josh
I hope we're not that bad.
0
Renaye and some of Josh
0
5
Renaye
March 26, 2008 8:22 PM
OOC:... by Renaye
I just realized that I set Laurie up for the response even though she was last to post before me. So, someone respond and just pretend that Renaye said your name xPSorry about that.
0
Renaye
OOC:...
0
Renaye
0
5
Brett Hodges
March 26, 2008 9:52 PM
That and the fresh maple syrup. by Brett Hodges
"So," she said, "What do you think is going to be the best part of the night?"Would it be the food--which promised to be amazing by the smells wafting through the hall--the boring announcements, the music, the dancing, the hanging out...? Now there was a question. He was pretty sure Elly was plotting something, too... but he wasn't all informed and stuff.
"Dunno," he admitted. "It's all sorta shiny." Shiny, in this case, meant new and different. He'd never been dancing before, really, so it was entirely possible that it wouldn't turn out to be worth all the hype it was getting. So far, his favorite part was the look on Irene's face seeing him in his new digs seeing her in her strapless digs, It was all diggy--there was much digging--and stuff and it sure to be revisited in his daydreams for at least a week.
"But I'm rooting for the dancing," he assured her.
0
Brett Hodges
That and the fresh maple syrup.
0
Brett Hodges
0
5
Echo Elms
March 26, 2008 11:00 PM
Or a candelabra, perhaps. Like Lumiere. by Echo Elms
Echo bit his lip as Elly bent down to remove her heels, prolonging the awkwardness of standing there with his arm out. When she rose, he was happy to see that he was taller than her--or, at least the same height (he couldn't really tell)--thanks to a raging growth spurt that had required him to lengthen his slacks a few days ago. Even better. She linked arms with him carefully and he bravely kept his smile on as they marched to the table.Okay, so he was a little stiff, a little tense, but overall, he was pretty proud of himself and his self-help prowess so far. This was like whoa big deal stuff, and he didn't even blink. Didn't even BLINK. Okay, mentally, there was definite blinkage, but outwardly... outwardly it was like whoa normality.
Let's get an instant, slow motion replay on that amazing feat of courage.
Echo lightly closes his hand in a fist and turns his arm, elbow out to the beautiful Elly, who stoops down to remove her shoes, leaving him anticipating the dreaded moment of contact for an extra 8.4 seconds. She rises and starts coming toward him with her own loose fist, her dress twirling outward a little as she does so. She stops to look searchingly at him, delaying the moment again by another 3.2 seconds during which our hero changes his mind and prepares to run away screaming, but .6 seconds later, his real or imagined greyhound spirit guide flashes through his thoughts, grabbing his fear by the scruff and growling at it until it subsides. This takes approximately .8 seconds, during which Echo's very active brain has not managed to send any messages to the extremities (face, arm, fist). He watches in wonder and horror as Elly moves toward him a second time, assured by his maintained expression. Her arm is warm, which is always the weird thing about people. They produce heat. It's sort of cool, but gross, too. He allows action, facilitating it with a jerky outward movement of his elbow in time with the quickening rhythm of the blood in his veins.
Echo's eyes widen a little as the contact holds and he feels a little feverish with this person so close to him. Elly comes with an Elly smell that he recognizes from her mini heart attack hugs. They're walking now. Oh, wow. The contact has held for 5.6 seconds now. It's for real now. Echo is judging the distance between them and the table, knowing he has to last at least that long.
It is 8.2 seconds in and the pair are now being fabulous together. Echo is smiling and her arm is in his and her elbow could bump his side and it does. Closeness is addictive he never wants to let go.
15.5 seconds. Ten feet to go. Caedence is talking. It's sort of neat the way Echo's insides aren't threatening to show themselves to world at large. It's also kind of strange the way ten feet seems like an unachievable gap. Hey, look at the floating stars.
22.0 seconds. Five feet. Elly is talking about fire. She knows. His smile isn't good enough. Crap. No, no, she's handing him the fireworks for later. He tucks them into a pocket with a surprisingly steady hand. He answers all questions with grins. Fortunately, Echo's never been a big talker, so nothing too unusual. Talking is just not going to happen right now. Faculties are being used to not freak out.
24.6 seconds. Release. Echo steadies himself on a chair and remembers to pull it out and offer it to his date.
21
Echo Elms
Or a candelabra, perhaps. Like Lumiere.
93
Echo Elms
0
5
Eavan
March 27, 2008 1:36 AM
No damsel in distress here by Eavan
OOC: Thanks for telling me. I was having odd thoughts of grape Jam and chocolate ice cream :PIC:
A slight tinge appeared on Eavan's cheeks when Pepper complimented her. She didn't know why, but she was embarrassed about the fact that people were looking at her, dressed as she was. It was just...odd. "Thanks, Pepper. You look good too. Really," Eavan added on. "I wish I had been able to wear something more along the lines of that. This was practically forced on me." Eavan indicated the dress and shrugged. "I feel so weird in it."
Eavan laughed when Pepper asked about her previous dance experience. "Wow," she said when she finally stopped laughing. "Uh, no. I've never really danced before. Unless you count dancing along in my room at home." Eavan glanced at the couples now swarming the floor. "I have no idea what I'd do if I had to dance formally. Have you ever learned how to dance?"
0
Eavan
No damsel in distress here
0
Eavan
0
5
Earl Valentine
March 27, 2008 2:00 AM
Well, here we are... by Earl Valentine
Earl glanced at himself in the full length mirror and ran a hand through his hair. He looked good. Eavan had brought him back a three piece gray suit that his dad had picked out and his old converse that he had cleaned up with a quick charm. He didn't know how many guys would be wearing suits and how many would be wearing dress robes, but he couldn't help what he had. His dad was a muggle and didn't know much about wizarding fashion. He just hoped he wasn't the only one in muggle clothes.
The suit itself fit fine, but it made him uncomfortable to wear it. The last time he had worn a suit, it had been to his mother's funeral. Earl sighed and ran both hands through his hair at the thought. He couldn't think about things like that now. He had a dance to go to and a beautiful girl to escort there. He took one last glance in the mirror, removed the jacket and loosened the tie. Much better, and yet still respectable.
He traipsed down the boys staircase and paced the common room until the sound of footsteps from the girl's staircase aroused his attention. He looked up at Nic coming down the stairs and grinned, his eyes opened wide as though trying to absorb her all at once. As she reached the bottom step he held out his hand for her and closed the gap between them. It took all the power within him not to pick Nic up and carry her to his room right there.
Ever since the field trip, Earl had been incredibly confused by their normal, daily interactions. Where Earl used to drag Nic off into the Labyrinth or a dark corner of the common room for a make-out session, he suddenly found himself wondering how she felt about it all. He knew she still liked Adam, but he had apparently moved on. She could too...right?
So, instead of dragging her off, he lightly cupped her face with the hand that wasn't laced in hers and gave her a quick kiss, fighting the urge not to deepen it. When he pulled back, he grinned. “You look amazing, Nic.” Squeezing her hand, she lead her out of the common room and down to Cascade Hall. When they reached the entrance, Earl stopped and looked around before turning his eyes to Nic again.
“So, you have any preference to where we sit?”
0
Earl Valentine
Well, here we are...
67
Earl Valentine
0
5
Talitha
March 27, 2008 2:20 AM
Glad you found me in this crowd! by Talitha
Any other time, Talitha might have been disappointed that they weren’t going to sit with friends, but not tonight. Before the ball, she kept telling herself that this wasn’t a real official date. It was just a great reason to dress up and have fun but when she met Adam and walked with him her that all changed. This was very special and she knew in her heart that she would forever count it as her very first date. The idea of a more private area was rather appealing. They might mingle later on, but for now it was nice that it was just the two of them.She listened politely to the headmaster’s speech and applauded wildly when Jennifer got the Head Girl position. There was so much food to choose from! Talitha thought at first she would be too nervous to eat but her first bite of vegetable lasagna changed her mind. Everything was delicious and the chocolate fondant cake was completely decedent.
“Isn’t Elly pretty?” Talitha commented to Adam. “Even Jae washed up for the occasion! Isn’t funny how putting on fancy clothes changes people’s behavior? Even the class clowns are making an effort to eat politely. I wonder if there’s a spell to make those good manners stick, we wouldn’t have to worry about food fights anymore.”
Oh Talitha was nervous, her chattering was proof of that, but she was very happy too. That was made evident by the sparkle in her eyes and the glow on her face. She found that she liked meeting Adam’s eyes when he answered her silly questions and kept asking them just as an excuse to hear him talk.
Talitha looked for Adam’s sister. “Kaylie looks so pretty. How is she doing? Does her back still hurt? How many are there in your family all together?”
\n
0
Talitha
Glad you found me in this crowd!
0
Talitha
0
5
Tarquin Reynolds and Danny Fox
March 27, 2008 10:27 AM
Salmon-enforced socialising by Tarquin Reynolds and Danny Fox
Tarquin looked remarkably out-going, especially for him. His outfit denoted someone who did not want to spend this event merging into the background. That, or mild eccentricity. Rather than a Muggle suit (which he felt indicated a certain lack of imagination) or dress robes (of which he was not particularly fond) he wore a Georgian-style jacket. The grey garment was three quarters of his body length, flaring from the waist, with large ornate cuffs that peeled back almost to the elbow and were heavily brocaded in silver and black thread, the same embroidery mirrored down the front of the jacket. Underneath it, he wore a white shirt, the front of which was ornate enough that it could not be said to be plain, but not so ostentatious that it could be deemed ‘ruffled’. A few little pleats ran parallel either side of the buttons. This was mostly obscured, anyway, by a waistcoat in the same shade of grey as the jacket. The shirt was only really visible at the neck, where a simple black band – a solitaire - was loosely knotted, instead of a tie or cravat. The outfit was not completed with three-quarter breeches tucked into knee-high socks, as Tarquin was not that brave, but a pair of grey trousers tucked into black ankle boots gave the right effect to the look, without compromising the wearer’s comfort. His shoulder length hair, which usually hung loose and scraggy, had been neatly combed and tied back with a small black ribbon. Danny had called him ‘dashing’, about which he was exceptionally pleased. ‘Lovely’, ‘gorgeous’, ‘beautiful’ and ‘stunning’ were all perfectly good descriptors for modern clothes, but they seemed an anachronistic compliment to pay him. ‘Dashing’ fitted perfectly though, and he loved Danny for bothering to find so perfect an adjective. Danny himself was stunning, gorgeous and/or all the rest of it. Tarquin had said he was welcome to wear whatever he liked ‘so long as it isn’t florescent pink or shamelessly emblazoned with CBM’s logo’. Danny would never have worn such garments anyway, as they would have looked simply awful, and he based his outfit choices on looking as good as possible, rather than looking like as much of a screaming queen as possible, or promoting his nightclubs. His dress robes were coat-like. Split down the front, the sides did not quite meet at the middle, being cut even further back after the waist. They were a pale blue, which went with his eyes, an under-layer of lavender being visible at the bottom hem and at each cuff. The outer blue layer was pinned back on the outside of each wrist, so that a more triangular area of the purple was visible. He wore a matching lavender shirt underneath. As the lavender layer was not visible down the open front of the dress robes, this meant nicely contrasting blue material rested against the shirt. The outfit was completed with smart black trousers, and pointy-toed dragon-skin boots.“So, who’s staff and who’s a guest?” Danny asked, as they made their way to the staff table. “Please tell me you know,” he added, as Tarquin hesitated just slightly too long in answering.
“Yes, of course I do,” he mumbled, looking a little flustered. He wasn’t very sociable with his colleagues, but he was required to attend staff meetings, so he knew who they were. He had just wanted to be sure. “It’s just everyone looks so different. Look at Kiva,” he nodded to his friend, whose hair hung sleekly down past her shoulders. “He’s a guest though,” he informed Danny, nodding to the person next to Professor Powell “Or very, very new,” he added, just to be safe.
“You have left the library this year, haven’t you?” Danny checked. What was worrying was that this wasn’t teasing but genuine concern.
“Yes, of course!”
“Apart from to get food and go staff meetings?”
“Ye-es…” Prompted by Danny’s pause and the look he knew he was giving him, in spite of the fact that Tarquin was not meeting his eyes, he added, “I go for walks.”
Danny sighed just a little, although he was pleased that natural light had been added to his partner’s regime. He knew Tarquin was shy, and that was fine. He didn’t expect him to go bouncing around trying to be everyone’s best friend, but he worried about how reclusive he could be. It wasn’t very good for him. Just because a person was shy didn’t mean they didn’t want company, and he knew Tarquin easily felt lonely. As the approached the table, he made sure that the librarian was ahead of him, so that he was forced to sit in between Danny and the other professor’s guest. That way Tarquin had to be involved in any conversation that Danny made with them, even if it was only being caught in the conversational cross-fire. They had to be quiet for now though, as the Headmaster announced things and welcomed people. Danny clapped politely for the two kids, even though he had no idea who they really were. Tarquin looked pleased about at least one of them though. When the food appeared, Tarquin helped himself to spring rolls and sweet chilli sauce, whilst Danny skimmed the dishes around them.
“I think I’ll begin with some of that salmon en croute,” he commented. Tarquin looked up, followed his eyes to where the said dish rested and inwardly scowled. Ok, Danny did like the dish, but he liked many of the other dishes that were around them. Many that were in reach without him having to ask their neighbours to pass them.
“Excuse me,” he said, and then tried it again at an audible volume, “Excuse me, sorry,” he said, his words stumbling a little, “could you possibly pass the salmon en croute please?”
13
Tarquin Reynolds and Danny Fox
Salmon-enforced socialising
1464
Tarquin Reynolds and Danny Fox
0
5
Pepper
March 27, 2008 10:47 AM
I shall save my newly acquired heroism for a later date then by Pepper
OOC – sorry for misspelling your name before. I even checked it, so I’m not sure how I did that. I’ll get that changed in a sec…Pepper was a little surprised at Eavan’s words. She’d fully expected any return compliment to be obviously a pity ones, along the lines of an awkward ‘you look nice’, but Eavan actually backed her comment up with evidence and reasoning.
“Oh, well, ditto really,” she smiled, as Eavan said the dress had been forced on her. “My mom has quite old-fashioned ideas about what’s appropriate,” she explained. She really did love her mother though, and didn’t want to feel disloyal, so she added “I would have liked to look just a little more grown-up, but I don’t mind really.” She agreed with her mother to a certain extent, and certainly didn’t think she should be wobbling along in high heels and a low cut dress. She was just sure there was a bit more of a middle ground that she could have occupied.
She was glad that her question so amused Eavan, partly because she was glad the other girl was enjoying herself, and partly because it was a relief that she was, apparently, not the only one unable to dance.
“No. The whole ballroom, ladylike thing isn’t exactly part of Muggle life, and we weren’t really ballet kids,” she explained, “Lots of brothers and a tomboy sister kept it from ever being something that came up.” Lots of kids also meant less spare cash, so extra curricular activities had tended to be the free ones. “I guess we just have to hope that the Purebloods will be at a loss for what to do if anything bouncy comes on, so then everyone’s got an equal chance of looking a bit hopeless at it.”
0
Pepper
I shall save my newly acquired heroism for a later date then
0
Pepper
0
5
Irene
March 27, 2008 6:12 PM
Irene Liddowe
March 27, 2008 7:01 PM
Maybe a disco ball? by Irene Liddowe
"Dunno. It's all sorta shiny. But I'm rooting for the dancing," he assured her. Irene grinned. She nodded, implying that she too was looking forward to that part."I think we've determinded we might not be the best at it, but I think that's what's going to make it fun," she said, imagining them laughing over a stumbled step or something of the like. The two approached the Pecari table where Elly was looking great in her dress, accompanied by Echo. She waved over at them and Irene grinned and waved back. When they got near, Irene saw Elly slip something to Echo. Irene's expression turned to curiosity and confusion for a moment and gave Elly a quizzical look. She knew Elly was quite the prankster so this could only lead to a most entertaining night...
"I would ask what you're up to, but it will probably be more fun to find out for myself," she said with a laugh. "Elly, you look great! And Caedence, I would make a 'You're wearing a dress!' comment, but I expect you're getting sick of it. You look very nice. And Jae! I love the tie! Echo, great robes." Irene realized how much she was rambling and paused. "Sorry, I'm just really hyped about this whole thing," she said.
Looking around at the group, Irene guessed that Echo had asked Elly, which she thought was great. That seemed like a pair that everyone had been waiting to see that finally happened. Caedence, it appeared, was here with Jae. Unexpected, but definitely not weird. The total of six there so far seemed to have their dates. Irene knew that Elly and Meredith were good friends, so Irene expected her to be there. Saul was usually included in the group too. Irene and Brett looked to be the youngest in the group. That was okay though. Irene never felt like she was treated like she was younger by her fellow Pecari's. She usually had a lot of fun with them, and tonight was not expected to be very different.
0
Irene Liddowe
Maybe a disco ball?
106
Irene Liddowe
0
5
Hannah Laurent
March 27, 2008 8:18 PM
Indeed, I am. by Hannah Laurent
Before leaving her dormitory, Hannah took a final glance in the mirror. She was still a bit unnerved by what she saw. The dress that she had picked with her mom’s guidance was a lovely shade of clover. While it was beautiful, it felt awkward to wear compared to her normal jeans and t-shirts. The same could be said for the blonde hair that she normally wore loose or pulled back into a simple ponytail. Instead, it was curled and piled on her head. Even her face was different. Over midterm, her mother had shown her how to apply some simple makeup and as taught, she had applied a little bit of lip-gloss and a light eye shadow. Anything more was unnecessary. She ran the applicator over her lips to touch up and took a deep breath. There was nothing more to do, other than to go meet Oliver. Slipping on the short-heeled dress shoes, she left the room and exited out of the Common room to make her way to the ball.Coming down the corridor to the Hall, she was a bundle of nerves, but she pushed them down. The ball was supposed to be fun, even if they had to dress up for it. What was it going to be like to see everyone else dressed up? Would they think that she looked strange all dolled up? Would Oliver? On that note, she easily spotted him, as she entered the Hall. She made her way over to him and gave a bright smile. There was no point in being shy about how she looked. She couldn’t do anything about it now. Besides, she wasn’t the only one to have made a change, as she surveyed the dress robes that Oliver was wearing. They were certainly different over muggle dress suits, but the only time her relatives ever wore even those was to weddings or funerals. Otherwise, the choice of dress was always casual, even when working in the restaurant. The dress robes were nice though, but she wasn’t sure what to say. She couldn’t say that they were beautiful, right? Oliver was a boy and it might not be appreciated. Maybe handsome? Clearing her throat a bit, she said, “Hi. You look…nice.” Okay, it wasn’t handsome, but at least she had complimented him and she didn’t want to make him feel uncomfortable by having him think that she meant more by it since he had asked her here as friends.
0
Hannah Laurent
Indeed, I am.
98
Hannah Laurent
0
5
Zoey
March 27, 2008 9:48 PM
How come? by Zoey
Alright, so this really wasn't so bad. Everyone may or may not have been watching them, but the longer they were dancing, the more Zoey really started to enjoy herself. She wasn't so sure why she have been dreadfully worried about everything now since she and Zack had practiced for so long together and now that they were here together, all her nerves seemed for nothing. Zoey was grinning while her feet easily found the beat hidden beneath the melodies. She really was having such a great time even if she was uncomfortable in her dress.But, more than the her own dancing, Zoey was rather impressed with Zack's dancing. When they first began, Zack was...well, her feet were sore for quite a bit and they had to get over the whole height difference, but she didn't think that they would be dancing this easily together. She definitely felt that it was his new title that contributed to that.
When Zack spoke, Zoey nodded. This was nice. And it was easier than she had originally anticipated. "You're welcome." She stated, her cheeks flushed from a number of things. People watching them, wearing the dress, dancing, and of course, being with Zack for what some would consider a 'date'. "Thank you so much for asking me. If you hadn't, I would probably be up in my dorm room reading or something less than glamorous as this." She admitted to him. "This is much better. And see? You're pretty good on your feet!" She complimented.
6
Zoey
How come?
39
Zoey
0
5
Jake
March 27, 2008 10:29 PM
We did, now it's onto the dancing by Jake
"You're welcome, but you should give Mama the credit." He could have easily taken the credit for the corsage, but didn't feel right with doing so. It was his mother's idea. She was the one who went out of her way to make sure she selected the right types and then shipped them off to Jake and his brothers. Aside from that, taking credit for it might come back and bite him later.He settled in his seat at the table where most of his classmates were located and listened only half-heartedly while the Headmaster started his speech. By the end of it, the Head Girl and Boy had been announced. Jake, who was rather happy for not being chosen, was estatic for the fact that his girlfriend was. He cheered loudly for her as she went up to get a badge and tried not to show his amusement by the look on her face when she came back to her seat.
While the list of boys had been far shorter than the girls, Jake didn't really think it was all that surprising that Zack had been chosen. He was Prefect. He was in Aladren. He was the smartest kid in their year. The girls were a tougher crowd. Some seemed like better candidates for the position (Prefects over non-Prefects), but then there was Jennifer who was a Captain and, therefore, showed leadership abilities.
Jake let Jennifer have her moment and decided to spend his time eating the delicious food that the Prairie Elves had cooked up for them. And boy how was it good. Not as good as the cooking back at home, this food was far too plain for that, but it was definitely good enough to give his tastebuds a dance of their own. He grinned his usual lopsided grin at Jennifer when she finally seemed to realize there was still a dance going on around her. "You were a total shoe-in. They had nothing on you."
6
Jake
We did, now it's onto the dancing
42
Jake
0
5
Manfred
March 28, 2008 2:43 AM
As long as it doesn't lead to (re)... but we shouldn't by Manfred
OOC: ...be giving anyone any ideas. NO ONE SAW THAT OR INFERED ANYTHING FROM IT. BIC:Still frowning at Kiva's less than polite 'what' Manfred took the offered plate and nodded slightly at her apology. He listened to her speak and served himself a good portion of the maultaschen. Putting the serving dish aside for whomsoever else wished to have some, he picked up his knife and fork to see what the Prairie Elves had made of the dish.
"Not too bad," he decided, after a bite. "You should try some, Kiva. It's quite good." He nudged the serving dish closer to her and took another bite of the food before taking a dreaded look around. "Yes," he conceded, "it does seem to be going well so far. I think Mr Dill might need an eye kept on him though. I believe he was speaking a strange language when he came up to get his badge and he wasn't behaving like himself at all. If I didn't know better I'd assume he had smuggled alcohol into the event. As things stand, it seems an uncharacteristic move, which is why I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt."
He glanced over at Kiva and her hair finally registered with him. Dropping his fork, he shifted around to better enable proper scrutiny.
Hair was one of those things that could be a right pain in the neck, when it came to altering its basic properties. Not colour (colour was all too easy to alter) but to get straight hair to curl properly, and to keep that curl for any length of time - not to mention the other way around, which seemed apparent in this case - was something that was the very devil to manage. He vaguely knew about potions and products that claimed to manage it, although he'd heard that they took hours in both preparation and application, making them not very good for time management. Charms, however, were more along his line of work and interest, and there had been considerable efforts made in that field towards attempting to get results like this.
"Did you use a variant of Harriger's Inconsolabilis Crispo?" he asked, intrigued despite himself.
39
Manfred
As long as it doesn't lead to (re)... but we shouldn't
0
Manfred
0
5
Saul Pierce
March 28, 2008 12:03 PM
Meeting Briony by Saul Pierce
Saul had gotten ready for the ball in thirty-nine minutes. This was up from his usual morning preparations of approximately seven minutes (three of which were spent dragging himself out of bed, three were spent shaving, and the last minute was throwing on whatever clothes came easiest to hand - they didn't necessarily have to be Saul's either).Today, though, he got back with just under an hour until the ball began after helping the band get their instruments from the van to the stage and trying to convince Uncle Harvey that he should not perform any songs about overturning the social order where Briony's Dad could hear them. He got back to his dorm just in time to save Echo from boring shoes and took another couple of minutes to get them just the right shade of turquoise.
That left him with forty-six minutes to get himself ready and get back to the Cascade Hall in time to meet his date. Fortunately, Echo and Matt were already mostly dressed so the only dress robes left in the room were Saul's. He put those on, checking himself out in the mirror to make sure the buttons were lined up properly. And then he checked himself out some more, because he looked good.
Okay, yes, his teeth were still a little crooked and mis-spaced (in a way his mother assured him was completely adorable) and his nose and cheeks still showed a light freckling and his hair was sticking up in only a few less directions than there were hairs on his head, but the blue of the robes brought out the blue in his eyes (just as the sales lady had told him when he bought it) and the cut was flattering. It made him look both taller and older.
Still having some thirty-eight minutes before he met Briony at that point, Saul shaved for a second time in a single day. He took his time at it, too, so it took five minutes instead of three. With thirty-three minutes left, Saul decided he had time to do something completely revolutionary. He brushed his hair. When that turned out only marginally efficacious in taming it, he got it wet and combed it. But that looked dumb (his hair usually gave him an extra inch of height and his head looked weird without it), so he found Matt's hair gel and used that until he got a neat spiky look that looked kinda like his normal sticking up free-for-all but glossy and somewhat more orderly, which made it totally awesome.
At that point, it was starting to reach the time that he'd have to run through the Gardens to get to the Hall in time, so he pulled on his shoes (a dress pair, colored blue to match his robes), and hurried to meet Briony.
He still managed to make it just before they had arranged to meet. Either he was missing her in the crowd, or he'd miraculously gotten there first. Saul took a moment to straighten out his clothes and lightly touched his hair to make sure it hadn't gotten messed up in his brisk walk (half afraid of planting his face in the dirt, he hadn't quite dared running). Everything seemed in order.
Saul stood up taller, partly trying to see over everyone else's heads so he could try to spot Briony, partly just to show off how great the bright blue robes fit him. Aside from their vibrant color (nobody was going to mistaken him for an Aladren; the brainy House's blue was much more subdued), they were a fairly standard set of wizards' dress robes. Saul liked them though. They were very eye catching. Briony shouldn't have too much trouble finding him.
1
Saul Pierce
Meeting Briony
82
Saul Pierce
0
5
Toma Valson
March 28, 2008 7:59 PM
Socialising of any sort by Toma Valson
Toma was enjoying yet another new experience, a phenomenon that was inescapable (though not necessarily unwelcome) being around Sadi. His wife wasn’t outgoing by nature, which only made it all the more surprising when she deviated from her tranquil norm, yet she firmly believed in the enriching of experience. This evening’s occurrences were novel on several counts. First and foremost, Sadi had genuinely been looking forward to a social occasion. Despite both their families’ prominence in society, neither Sadi or Toma could abide the rigid formality nor false camaraderie such events had a tendency to demand. Although he appreciated a school ball was likely to be far less formal than one held by Ada Powell, Sadi’s excitement had still come as somewhat of a surprise.So for the first time since Jera was born, Sadi and Toma were adorned in formal attire. Sadi, conservative as ever, wore the plainest of robes in dull silver, with only a hint of metallic sheen. Her hair was fastened in a neat bun at the nape of her neck; it was only the rosy glow to her cheeks that gave any indication this was a special occasion. By far the more exuberant of the two, Toma had carefully toned down his preferred outfit, in favour of one that would draw less attention to him. He, too, had opted for robes, but in deep indigo, with bold diamond-patterned borders in magenta embroidery along the hems.
Naturally, Sadi being excited and the couple both being formally dressed was only the beginning. Toma had visited Sadi at work on a couple of previous occasions, but he hadn’t encountered many students (or other faculty) in his visits. Therefore this was the first time he could fully appreciate the Sonoran ambience, and he was favourably impressed. However, the most peculiar sensation for Toma was that here he was a stranger, whereas Sadi was not. This in itself was a reversal of trends, only further emphasised by Sadi’s position of authority, and Toma’s comparative powerlessness. Nevertheless it was refreshing to see his wife at ease in the company of so many others. Toma smiled to himself as he, too, began to relax.
“Excuse me, sorry, could you possibly pass the salmon en croute please?”
The hushed voice at his shoulder startled Toma from his reverie, but within half a second he had already reached for the sought dish. “Certainly,” he replied, passing it to his neighbour. With a quick glance at Sadi, Toma ascertained she was conversing with whoever was seated on her other side, and so was not currently free for introductions. “Toma Valson,” he offered, along with his hand, to the gentleman seated next to him. “I’m Sadi’s husband.”
0
Toma Valson
Socialising of any sort
0
Toma Valson
0
5
Zane
March 28, 2008 10:51 PM
I know <i> I'm </i> not by Zane
Zane wasn’t a dolt, at least, not completely. He liked to think that he’d been aware of the fact that his friend, Renaye was a girl. That was why he had asked her to the Ball with him in the first place. His mother’s owls had convinced him that a date would be necessary, and Renaye met all of the requirements – she was a friend, and of course, she was a girl. But he’d certainly never been this aware of her being a Girl before. It was just something he’d never felt the need to focus on before.He was somewhat aware that words were coming out of Cecily’s mouth, and he nodded, pretending to listen. Somehow, the boy had to get over the shock of one of his best friends being a Girl – and fast. Certainly it would be embarrassing if he were incapable of nothing but staring the rest of the night.
When he finally did manage to focus on the conversation, Laurie was going on about desert islands. He quirked an eyebrow as he sat next to the Girl, Renaye. Desert islands? Where had that come from?
“You and Josh would probably kill each other fighting for the broom,” Zane commented on the Girl’s choice matter-of-factly, proud that he was able to string a sensible sentence together before he started to babble, “Why would you be on a desert island, anyway? And how could you have prepared what to bring? Nobody plans to be stuck on a desert island. Besides,” he said as he poured himself a glass of punch, “If it were me stuck, it wouldn’t really be a desert island, 'cause my mom would still find a way to get an owl to me to warn me of a howler if I didn’t make it home on time for dinner.” He was talking and making sense! Or he thought so, anyway. Maybe next time he wouldn’t have to focus so hard on his glass of punch, and could actually look in the Girl’s general direction.
0
Zane
I know <i> I'm </i> not
0
Zane
0
5
Laurie
March 28, 2008 11:34 PM
Well, that leaves <i>me</i>. Thanks. by Laurie
"My broom, my brother, and my bathing suit. How's that?"Renaye's answer forced an immediate laugh from Laurie. Her friend's reply was so perfectly Renaye. She shook her head however, and faked a frown of disapproval. "Hey now, that's cheating. If you're bringing Josh, then technically, you're bringing six things along with you. Plus, with your broom, then you could escape." The lack of logic in her Desert Island game suddenly struck her. "But I guess, given the circumstances, we could all just disapparate as well." She gave a brief wave of her hand, pushing aside her nitpicks. "Nevermind that. We'll just pretend that this Desert Island has a forcefield around it, so that flying away or disapparating aren't possible avenues to escape or be rescued."
Renaye passed the question off to Zane next, who still seemed to be rather dazed by the dazzle that was Renaye. She hid a smile behind her hand, and considered which of the various unknown dishes on the table she should try to sample first. The moment Zane began to answer however, her giggles took first priority.
"Zane, you're over-analyzing. The point of the game is to find out heretofore unknown things about each other. The premise is a desert island because typically, such a situation would leave you isolated and having to survive in an extreme situation. So," she was still laughing, any thoughts of Talen's continued absence distant in her mind, "just pretend that you're some place where magic can't help you, your parents can't get to you, and you need to survive."
She rested her forehead against her palm, her hand cool against her flushed skin. Her breathing began to calm. She straightened back into her chair, re-arranging her silverware as she went. As much as she was enjoying herself, her gaze nevertheless wandered back toward the entrance. The seat to her left was still empty, and, as much as she tried to reassure herself otherwise, it was bothering her.
0
Laurie
Well, that leaves <i>me</i>. Thanks.
0
Laurie
0
5
Adam B.
March 29, 2008 2:30 AM
Me t-I mean, so am I! by Adam B.
As Adam looked at the food spread out,his stomach growled. His face instantly flushed again, and he was so glad they weren't sitting around a lot of people. He hoped Talitha wouldn't hold it against him but he'd been too nervous to eat all day and was therefore hungry. As soon as the Head Boy and Girl were announced and dinner began, Adam selected a steak and began to eat.“Isn’t Elly pretty? Even Jae washed up for the occasion! Isn’t funny how putting on fancy clothes changes people’s behavior? Even the class clowns are making an effort to eat politely. I wonder if there’s a spell to make those good manners stick, we wouldn’t have to worry about food fights anymore.”
He nodded in agreement. Adam didn't think Elly looked as pretty as Talitha did though. He wanted to say so, but he was worried about coming on too strong. "Yea" Adam took a drink from his glass of milk and went on "My cousin went to Salem. They have an annual tradition of food fights at every opening feast. He didn't go to very many though." The only person he knew of who was less social than his cousin Marshall was Adam himself and there were differences. Adam was deathly afraid of being rejected by people whereas Marshall just didn't seem to want to bother with people unless he felt like it.
“Kaylie looks so pretty. How is she doing? Does her back still hurt? How many are there in your family all together?”
Adam looked towards his elder sister. He wasn't really noticing that she looked pretty . (He didn't really think of his sisters that way.) Instead, Adam noticed that she looked miserable and he felt concerned. "Um, well...yea, it does. Kaylie doesn't talk about it much but I can tell she's in pain." Adam also thought she seemed pretty depressed. "She always seems to try to hide these things to protect me but I do know. I think it might just upset her further if she knew that I do though." He took another bite. "There's six of us total. There's Kaylie and me, and then there's Chelsea, who's a first year Aladren. You probably have class with her." And thus probably didn't need to be warned about her. "Then there's Nina, Hope and Evan." He paused and asked "Do you have any siblings?"
11
Adam B.
Me t-I mean, so am I!
78
Adam B.
0
5
Scurry and the Prarie Elves
March 29, 2008 6:46 AM
Because Everyone Needs Crazed Fans... by Scurry and the Prarie Elves
It had been an almost impossibly choice. Clean up the bands plates and be of use to Master Paul Simon or neglect his duty and miss nothing of what was going on. In the end, Scurry chose the latter - mostly because his dithering meant that other Elves had already seen to the plates - and made up for his neglect by being certain to stub, not just one, but all of his toes quick nastily on the solidly built stage as he elbowed past a couple of less agile prairie elves to claim prime position for watching his hero on stage.It was perhaps an intriguing for anyone watching to witness. The prefects making their way onto the dancefloor were ignored. Instead, each and every Prairie Elf present had this eyes glued on the figure up front on the stage. Through the speech they stayed politely - if slightly on edge-edly - silent, although there were already signs of what was to come, rippling through the crowd.
Then the riff from Master Paul Simon's father was heard and the Elves went wild. Several attempted to sing along, despite having an obvious problem with the words, the tune and, indeed, the rhythm. Many were jumping up and down, expressing their excitement in bursts of energy.
And right in front of the stage, struck wordless and motionless with admiration, Scurry stared wide-eyed up at the person he thought most wonderful in the world. Truly Master Paul Simon was indeed a most worthy and exceptional wizard - and truly Scurry was most fortunate to know that he served him well as Janitor of the First Order.
A couple of the older Elves moved past the stage, tut-tuting and shaking their heads at the actions of the younglings as they moved to do their proper duty and clear away the dinner plates.
39
Scurry and the Prarie Elves
Because Everyone Needs Crazed Fans...
0
Scurry and the Prarie Elves
0
5
Oliver
March 29, 2008 2:38 PM
Excellent by Oliver
Hannah was smiling when she arrived, and Oliver took that as a good sign. He figured that if she wanted to ditch him for the evening she probably would have looked nervous or sympathetic or something. Then she told him that he looked nice, and Oliver’s smile widened into a grin. “Thanks,” he replied. “You look great, too.”Hannah did look great – well, she always did, really, but there was something different. Oliver tried to work out what it was. He didn’t think it was the dress on it’s own – although Hannah looked very nice wearing it, she was pretty even in the school uniform robes, so that couldn’t be it. She’d done something different with her hair, Oliver noticed. It was all curly and framed her face. The hair might be it – Hannah looked more grown up than usual. Yeah, it was probably the hair. “I like you hair like that,” he said, and immediately wished he hadn’t. It sounded weird, and not the sort of friend-to-friend compliment he should have given. Trying to cover up his blunder, Oliver added, “I mean, it suits you. For the ball. With the dress.”
Oliver stopped talking again, knowing he was only making it worse. “Right,” he said, after a pause, “let’s find a table, shall we?” Weaving through other couples meandering through the hall, Oliver found two empty seats and paused. “Um, is this okay?” he asked Hannah. The table was quite close to the stage and might be quite loud if the band were going to play during the meal. “If you’d rather go somewhere else we can.”
0
Oliver
Excellent
0
Oliver
0
5
Talen Dupree
March 29, 2008 3:02 PM
Am I too late to join the party? by Talen Dupree
Time is a very tricky thing. When one is excited for something that is coming, the time cannot go by fast enough, but when one is anxious for something that is coming, the time seems to fly. In theory, if one is both excited and anxious, these two things should cancel each other out and time should seem to return to its normal relative state of being, however, this is not the case, as evidenced by the young boy that was running late without even realizing it.Being normal observant, he might have noticed the fact that his roommates had already left to go to the Ball, but for the moment he was in his own little world. It was a safe haven, as he prepared himself for all the possibilities that could occur. Overanalyzing. It was a rather negative tendency of his and one that he was trying to do less, however, it could not be avoided in this situation. The event meant a very large crowd of people gathered in one place. The thought of the crowd itself was not so bad for he was used to such things being from a significantly sized family. Yet, this would involve other students, some of whom were his classmates. What if he had picked out an inappropriate outfit? Though, this was silly, as his dress robes were the basic black since the color was classic and would go with any dress that his date was wearing.
There were a million other questions, such as these. What if he suddenly forgot how to dance and made a fool out of Laurie. Then, he had to remind himself that she had said that she couldn’t dance, which in a way was good, because even if he could dance, maybe he wouldn’t dance the right way. Or what if he was late? As though, the thought had just made it’s way into his head, he glanced at the clock and for the first time in his life, he swore under his breath. He was late. He was never late, being the punctual being that he was. Oh, no; oh, no; oh, no! Now, she was going to think that he had stood her up and that just would not do. Very quickly, he took a final glance in the mirror to ensure that there was nothing unpleasant going on. Luckily, there wasn’t. His skin was a little flushed from his worry, but otherwise, everything was normal. He looked like him, just in dress robes, which his mother always claimed gave him a distinguished look. He only hoped that others thought so too.
With this, he grabbed his wand, which he had left on the dresser, his shoes already on, and he ran out of the dormitory, through the Common room, and out into the Gardens. He ran the entire way through, praying he would not trip and make a mess of himself. It was the last thing he needed on top of his tardiness. Finally, he arrived at the entrance of the Hall, berating himself once more, as everyone else was eating. He ran a hand through the dark mop of curls to make sure that none were sticking up in odd fashion and made his way over to where Laurie was sitting with quite a few other students. There was an empty seat and he placed his hand on the back of it, as he leaned down slightly to address his date and to be sure that she still wanted to hang out with him. “I apologize terribly for my lateness. I really have no excuse for being so, other than my own idiocy. However, if you accept my apology, I would still very much like to enjoy this social occasion with you,” he stated quickly in the formal tones that he had been taught.
0
Talen Dupree
Am I too late to join the party?
105
Talen Dupree
0
5
Josiah
March 29, 2008 3:54 PM
Two can play at that game *zips lips* by Josiah
"I got your letter. I made sure that Hyana got it. Has she responded?"“You did what?” Josiah growled, ready to smack his cousin in the face. It was only manners that kept him from doing so. “You know I only sent that out to get a date to this stupid ball so that I could avoid going with you” He spat the last word out.
He didn’t have time to say anything back to her reply when the headmaster began to speak. Josiah liked Bulla. He organized fun stuff like this ball. Well, it would be fun if he didn’t have to have his cousin for a date.
He clapped for Zack and Jennifer. He had only heard of the two of them, never meeting them in real life. Zack seemed like a pretty good guy, if a little odd. And he was sure that Alexis would get along just swimmingly with her fellow Crotalis, Jennifer. He didn’t know much about Jennifer, but from his experience, there were only a handful of nice Crotali.
"Dinner should be served- now. Enjoy, everyone!"
“Don’t bet on it…” Josiah muttered.
Just to spite Alexis, he began shoveling food on his plate before she was served. “Juice?” He offered mockingly, holding out the pitcher of said juice for her. He could be polite, sometimes, if only in a forced, clipped manner when it came to his cousin.
“So,” He said, mocking polite conversation, “This ball, don’t you think we’ve seen better? I mean, after all, it’s open to anyone who wants to come. Not just the rich families with connections. Isn’t that so horrid?”
0
Josiah
Two can play at that game *zips lips*
0
Josiah
0
5
Danae
March 29, 2008 4:20 PM
Highly doubtful that you will by Danae
When Danae arrived in the agreed upon location, she was glad to see that Josh was already there waiting. Logically, she knew that Josh would never stand her up, but she couldn’t help feeling the tiny bit nervous about the possibility, especially given that it was her first date, even if it was just as friends. Of course, Eavan’s enthusiasm for the event was a large part of why it was down to only a tiny bit. She hadn’t had much time to dwell on the fact, as they had prepared for the dance.She absolutely adored the dress that she was able to wear to the ball. It was one of her favorite shades of red and wasn’t surrounded in layers of taffeta like the ones that her mother normally made her wear. No, this one was quite grown up, she thought. To compliment the outfit, she hadn’t been able to do nearly as much with her hair since it had been cut off, but since it had grown a little past her shoulders, there was a little more she could do, but even so, she had opted to leave it loose. She had placed a few small braids on either side to add a bit of a textured look and then had charmed her hair to give it a faint glittering appearance. She had also taken a little more time on her makeup, not overdoing it, but going with something a little different than her normal every day simple. She was glad that she had, because Josh’s compliment made the effort well worth it.
“Thanks,” she responded, returning his smile. “You look great too.” She hoped she hadn’t blushed on the compliment she had given him, but he really did look amazing in his dress robes. He looked older, more mature. It was hard to believe that this was the same person that she spent hours with, as he mapped out the school for pranks, but then, there were always multiple sides to a person and this was another one of his, which included an offered arm to escort her to the dance. She placed her hand in the crook of his arm and gave him another grin. “Let’s.”
Into the Hall, they went, Josh leading the way until they arrived at one of the tables. Like a gentleman, he held out the chair for her. Inside, she couldn’t help feeling how adult they were being and it gave her a thrill. But the best part was when Josh produced a box that held a beautiful corsage. As soon as it was on, the rose changed to match the red of her dress and she gave a small utterance of delight. “Thank you, it’s lovely.” At the end of the night, she knew that the corsage would be placed into her memory box, because thus far, she didn’t want to forget anything about the night, even if it had only just begun.
Before anything more could be said, the Headmaster had started his speech, part of which announced the Head Boy and Girl. She politely clapped for each one, not actually knowing them, though; she did know that Jennifer Zucchero was dating Josh’s older brother, Jake. Once the announcement was over, it was time for dinner to which Josh commented that he hoped they had flan for dessert. She nodded. “Oooh, I hope so too. It’s delicious. Paris-Brest is also very good, but I doubt that it will be served. Have you ever had it?”
0
Danae
Highly doubtful that you will
0
Danae
0
5
Alexis
March 29, 2008 4:31 PM
Wow, mature. *rolls eyes* by Alexis
Alexis smirked at her cousin's reaction. She figured he would be upset. The look on his face was probably the most entertaining thing of the night. "Hey, don't be angry with me." she replied, her eyes widening and her voice going soft. "You were looking for a date, and I sent it to the person who would accept. Besides..." Her eyes narrowed and her voice became angry. "Do I look like I'm enjoying this? I can't even imagine what people are thinking..."The Headmaster began to speak, and her mind automatically went elsewhere. She couldn't believe all the people who were here, many not even worthy to attending a magic school.
Her attention switched halfway on when she heard the announcement for Head Boy and Girl. Zack was totally worthless. Wasn't he a mudblood? She wrinkled her nose in disgust. Could the school possibly sink any furthur? She clapped for Jennifer, though, hoping that she'd be able to keep the mudblood in line.
She heard Josiah mutter something under his breath and rolled her eyes. Seeing that she wasn't that hungry since she had helped herself to snacks with the other girls, but Josiah's rudeness quickly got on her nerves. She took the offered juice without speaking, wishing that he'd give himself a stomach ache.
She gave a sarcastic laugh at his comment. "Since when have you cared about balls Joey? We both know perfectly well that you hate every one of them." She smiled though, a sudden idea popping in her head. "This ball is awful anyway, whether or not I'm forced to be here with you. I mean, look at most of these people. Mudbloods and halfbreeds alike. I'll be much happier at the ball the Silverleafs are having over the summer." she cast him a smirk and continued.
"Of course, the people who come to those balls can't always be controlled, can they? If they're rich or know the right people, they come." She was already planning in her head. If she could just find a way to get Hyana there, with Josiah...oh, this summer was going to be wonderful.
0
Alexis
Wow, mature. *rolls eyes*
0
Alexis
0
5
Cecily Smythe
March 29, 2008 5:23 PM
You're just in time by Cecily Smythe
Cecily frowned when Laurie admitted that Talen, her date, was the only person yet to arrive. As the Headmaster began his speech and the food arrived and the Dupree boy still didn’t join them Cecily began to feel both a little disappointed in him on Laurie’s behalf, and smug that her date had been on time (though admittedly it probably wasn’t due to his wanting to spend time with Cecily). Despite being neglected, Laurie rallied her spirits tolerably well and soon initiated a game. Cecily rolled her eyes and Renaye’s response – of course she would take her broomstick. Ridiculous. Zane’s reply, on the other hand, was very funny; Cecily placed a hand in front of her mouth to cover a smirk. Laurie then had to amend the rules so that disapparating and brooms weren’t allowed, either, and Cecily thought the whole thing was getting far too silly.“If the point is to find out new things about each other then why not just ask?” Cecily enquired, bemused by the whole episode. Any response that Cecily might have received was lost on her by the arrival of a boy, presumably the elusive Talen Dupree. With a raised eyebrow Cecily eavesdropped on his greetings and apologies to Laurie and sighed loudly. Although she appreciated Talen’s good breeding and excellent manners, he should realise they would be lost on someone like Laurie.
“She accepts your apology,” she told him in a clear voice, though her gaze was on the mushroom skewered on the end of her fork. “She would love to spend the evening with you but she’s upset and disappointed that you’re so very late. Really, Mr Dupree, Miss Cider is a delightful girl and you should feel completely ashamed of yourself for making her wait.” The corners of Cecily’s mouth had turned up ever so slightly as she slyly slid her brown-eyed gaze to focus on the unfortunate couple.
\r\n\r\n
0
Cecily Smythe
You're just in time
122
Cecily Smythe
0
5
Nicoletta Dupree
March 29, 2008 5:26 PM
So, it seems by Nicoletta Dupree
The advantage to sharing a Common room with one’s date is the ability to make a bit of an entrance coming from the stairs rather than in a normal hallway, which was certainly the case as Nicoletta took the last step into the Crotalus Common room where Earl was waiting. She took his hand and allowed him to kiss her, glad that it was a gentle one; otherwise, all her efforts would have been ruined. She had spent a great deal of time to ensure that she looked perfect. She wanted the entire night to be that way, perhaps, even a bit magical. Afterall, it wasn’t every year that they had a Ball.As Earl pulled back and told her how amazing she looked, she knew her preparation hadn’t been in vain. The dress had been a present from her aunt Izzy, whom she had been writing to for the past year and thankfully, would be staying with this summer, as well as her husband and two daughters. Oddly enough, the daughters actually went to the same school as her, one even in the same House, but she had yet to formally meet them. She wasn’t quite sure how to go about doing so. Was she supposed to just walk up to them and be like ‘Hi, I’m your cousin?’ No, it would be completely weird and so, she had decided to just wait until Izzy introduced them, which would be awkward enough.
She shook her head slightly to clear it of the intrusive thoughts. The dark curls, more so than usual since she had charmed them, bounced, as she did so. Tonight was supposed to be special. It was why every detail had been planned down to the high-heeled strapped, silver sandals and the glitter eyeliner that she was sporting. Easily, she gave Earl a grin, before he led her to the Hall.
Once there, he asked if she had a preference to where they sat. “Probably not too close to the stage. Do you see Jordanna or Catherine? We could sit with them,” she answered, trying to spot either one. It would be nice to sit with her friends, even if Earl didn’t get along with them that well. Maybe this would be a good opportunity for them to get to know each other.
0
Nicoletta Dupree
So, it seems
64
Nicoletta Dupree
0
5
Briony O'Leary
March 29, 2008 6:28 PM
Yay! That's me! by Briony O'Leary
Briony was an absolute bundle of nerves as she glanced in the mirror for the final time. Nothing had changed. She still looked fine. The dress was still wrinkle free with no visible marks on the white. It was going to be terribly hard to keep it pristine, but she figured it would be fine if she could make it through dinner. Besides, that was the entire reason for placing one’s napkin on the lap.Plus, the benefit about wearing white was that it made her red hair stand out more. She had left it loose, opting to only pull the sides back into a barrette. Adding in a little makeup, she had a father-friendly, but still perfect for the ball look. This was a very good thing, considering that she had a date to the dance, her friend and secret crush, which she didn’t want her father, a professor, to spoil by doing something embarrassing. Though, the stern talk before the dance may have deterred the possibility. Hopefully. After all, besides being her first date, they would be among their fellow classmates. Dad lectures were just a big no.
Actually, she wondered if he was going to dance. She was a bit torn on this aspect. Her father had been a professional skater once and therefore, he had the grace and ability to dance incredibly well, but at the same time, it would be a strange sight. Her father had a reputation for being scary. She heard the rumors around school of him being a vampire and such. Rather silly, it was, but then, no one would ever suspect what he had done for a living before becoming a professor. Not to mention, the fact that having your father dance in front of everyone was just weird in and of itself. But again, if he did, it would be impressive. Though, she decided it would be best if he didn’t, just because, as much as she loved her father, she didn’t want him to distract in any way from this night.
Brushing the thoughts aside, she reapplied her lip gloss, vanilla flavored, as unflavored gloss was just nasty when one inevitably ran their tongue over their lips. With this, her final check was over and she was ready to go, which was perfect timing, as the Ball was about to start. Hurrying, but not too fast, as she was wearing a pair of heels, which gave her a couple of additional inches, she made her way to the Hall, where she was to meet Saul.
Entering, she looked around for a few moments, looking for Saul. She easily spotted him in a pair of bright blue robes. He had yet to spot her, though, due to their positions. She made her way over and tapped him on the shoulder, waiting for him to turn around. When he did, she grinned, hoping she hadn’t suddenly become a mess from her room to the hall since he looked amazing, the blue of the robes making his eyes look bluer. “Hi,” she greeted, followed by a compliment. “I love the color of your robes. It’s fantastic.”
0
Briony O'Leary
Yay! That's me!
75
Briony O'Leary
0
5
Tarquin
March 29, 2008 6:46 PM
... is reasonably nerve-wracking, true. by Tarquin
“Thank you,” Tarquin smiled, quietly pleased as he managed to juggle the salmon over to Danny and shake the proffered hand without doing anything disastrous like dropping fish into the stranger’s lap. Toma Valson, apparently.“What a fascinating name!” he couldn’t help but exclaim, although, like most things about him, it was a reserved, librarian-like exclamation. “What’s it’s origin, if you don’t mind my asking?” he enquired, his tone still soft, but a gentle earnestness evident. The gentleman had also informed him that he was the husband of Professor Powell. Tarquin’s eyes briefly flickered over her as she was mentioned, and he noted that she was engaged in speaking with the person to her non-husband side. This made him relax a little more about having been forced to intrude upon Toma. He knew how precious little time he got to spend with Danny, and he wouldn’t have wanted to force his company upon them, had they been quietly enjoying the dinner together.
“I’m Tarquin Reynolds,” he offered, “the librarian here at Sonora, and this is Danny,” he indicated the man on his other side. He didn’t like to explicitly announce their relationship to all and sundry. It was a topic that had been discussed quite a lot after the near break-up, and he knew that Danny didn’t mind, and wouldn’t think it was because he was ashamed of him in any way. It was just something that was personal, and that not everyone needed to know. It could also make some people uncomfortable, or react less than positively. So long as Tarquin wasn’t actively trying to hide who he was, it wasn’t an issue. “He’s my guest here tonight,” Tarquin added, so that Toma would know that Danny was not another staff member. He could probably infer their relationship with relative ease from any number of factors: 1) They didn’t look like they were related, 2) It was an odd thing to invite a friend to, 3) The omission of Danny’s exact relationship to him suggested that it was something potentially taboo, 4) Toma didn’t look like an idiot. All these little things would probably add together to clue him in. That, and Danny had the unmistakable air of someone flamingly gay. For all he had mellowed out since his younger years and stopped referring to everyone as ‘darling’, he was the sort of guy whose sexuality you instantly questioned.
“Is this your first time visiting the school?” he enquired, to give Toma a nice, safe point to stick to, and hoping that he hadn’t been a frequent and prominent visitor to the school, who only a terribly hermitic creature would have failed to notice…
13
Tarquin
... is reasonably nerve-wracking, true.
1464
Tarquin
0
5
Jennifer
March 29, 2008 9:37 PM
Except we still aren't quite there by Jennifer
“Thanks for your confidence, however much I may have not felt the same way. I just hope that none of the others are too upset with not getting it.” She glanced around the room trying to locate said others. Jenna, Chrissy and Tally were fairly simple to find, and from what she could see none of them looked too disappointed. (Mia she couldn’t find, but that was alright. Three out of four wasn’t bad.) The first two were the bigger relief, though. After all, Jennifer was going to have to live with both of them for another year, and if either of them were feeling resentful things could turn ugly, which definitely wasn’t the way that she wanted to spend her final year at Sonora.That accomplished, she settled back down in her seat to eat. The food was delicious, but she was still in too much of a state of shock to eat more than a few bites of anything. She pushed the rest of it around on a plate for a minute, and then gave up. “So, it looks like most people seemed to have paired up all nicely, doesn’t it?” she remarked. “I suppose there’s nothing like an organized social activity to bring about an air of romance throughout the school. Or, you know, to make people realize the importance of finding some member of the opposite gender that they can tolerate on a one-on-one basis for one night at least.” With an indulgent, amused sigh, Jennifer glanced around at the gathered student body. “Care to wager how many are going to attempt to escape the ever-watching chaperoning eyes at some point to get some time alone together?”
It was around that point the groundskeeper’s amplified voice broke into the din with the news that the dancing was starting. The first song was, of course, started by the prefects, and she really was content just to watch some of the more amusing dancing that went on. However, knowing her boyfriend, he’d prefer to get on the floor as possible, and she really was fine whichever way, so she would just go along with whatever he suggested.
0
Jennifer
Except we still aren't quite there
0
Jennifer
0
5
Stephen Baxter
March 29, 2008 10:29 PM
Ready, Princess? WotW by Stephen Baxter
Since gaining Mia as a date - and as a confidant about his "problem" - Stephen was feeling much better about the Ball. For one, he was no longer spending so much time trying to work out if there was a way he could ask Sorrel to be his date without ending up in the hospital wing, and for another, it was a good feeling, knowing that he had not only a good friend to go with, but a good-looking good friend. And he got to help her out by being her date when she needed one as a prefect, so everyone won.And then there had been the entertainment in the leadup to the ball itself. Firstly there had been the letter tacked to the common room notice board at some point. It was kind of tragic and funny that the Josiah kid he vaguely recalled as having started some kind of Charms club (that was him, right?... Stephen was pretty sure) had been desperate enough to write something like that and just post it. Didn't the guy have anyone in mind? Or at least the gumption to go up and ask a girl directly, rather than acting like a hopeless loser - the kind of person you found trawling dating sites on the internet trying to find someone to be their friend or more. All in all it was pretty sad on an epic scale.
If anyone actually went with the kid after that stunt, Stephen would be not only surprised, but probably laughing his head off. Rather like he'd had the opportunity to do not so long ago in the dorm room he shared with Ash (the punch in the arm he'd received in return had not been particularly efficacious in stopping him).
That had been pretty funny. Stephen, was grinning again as he recalled. Ash had been so annoyed at himself, and over an appearance point of all things! But in the midst of all that activity he'd managed to get himself quite presentable as well. And he looked pretty damn sharp in the grey long sleeved shirt, triple diagonally striped tie, and darker grey slacks that his brother had managed to procure for him when he'd sent a message to Alan about the Ball. His black shoes were shiny and freshly polished. His hair, well, he hadn't bothered with the gel or other styling products he'd noticed the other guys using. He gave it a comb through and then just messed it around until it looked cool, knowing if he felt like changing it during the night - which he almost certainly would - it would be much easier this way.
He'd met Mia as arranged, complimented her with a wink and now the two of them were sitting at their table, waiting for the Headmaster to get things rolling. He hadn't spotted Sorrel as of yet, despite doing a little twisting and turning in his seat to see if she was around. He wasn't even certain that she had come - or would - but... there was really no point thinking about it right now. For one, the Headmaster was starting to talk and for two - oh, sweet, Head Boy announcement. Stephen stood up, pre-empting his name being called out, only to find himself told to sit back down again. Frowning, he did so, only to find himself almost jumping out of the chair again in surprise at the name that was called out.
"Zack?!" he said, kind of shocked. "Seriously? How the hell did that happen?" He turned to Mia as Jennifer was announced the Head Girl and gave her a sympathetic grin. "Looks like we were both outclassed. Doesn't that just suck?" Still, he managed to clap the two of them properly, if slightly grudgingly in Zack's case. Zack was a crazy little Aladren chock-full of conspiracy theories. It was insane that he got Head Boy when he was up against Jake and himself. Insane.
He got through his meal without even working out what half the things were (other than their being edible and palatable) and was cheered up by the sight of the Prairie Elves crowded around the Stage when the Groundskeeper started up the entertainment. Standing, he offered a hand to Mia.
"Well, Princess? I think it's your big moment. And, if it makes anything any better, I voted for you as Head Girl. Actually, I voted for me too... maybe I jinxed us both." He grinned disarmingly at her, thoughts of Sorrel pushed resolutely to the side for the moment.\r\n\r\n
39
Stephen Baxter
Ready, Princess? WotW
49
Stephen Baxter
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5
Josh and Renaye
March 29, 2008 11:11 PM
My watch is fast anyway... by Josh and Renaye
Josh grinned at Renaye's response, noting that Cecily didn't seem pleased. Raye's answer was pretty much identical to his response, minus the bathing suit part, and switch himself with Renaye. It seemed the technicalities of the game were being worked out. It was a simple concept, but he could understand the questioning. He grinned at hearing Zane's response while Renaye began to laugh. He couldn't see Raye and himself actually sharing something like a broom. It would end with someone having a black eye, and, as much as he hated to admit it, it would probably be himself.Laurie was laying down the law for the desert island game, which drew his attention back onto her. What? He couldn't help it! Tonight everyone was looking particularly stunning, and he should be noticing that his date was looking amazing, which he knew she was, but it was Laurie. Come on. How was his mind suppose to stay on track when she was sitting there, all dressed up and distracting? “If the point is to find out new things about each other then why not just ask?” Josh gave a light laugh.
"That works too," he said, cutting his steak. He looked up at the entrance again, and back towards the table. The empty seat next to her was especially prominent to him. He didn’t know what Talen was thinking, missing out on something like this. Renaye spotted the look on his face, stilling laughing from Zane’s comment. She looked towards the empty seat, her laughing becoming quiet, to Laurie. She aimed a sad smile towards him. Josh couldn't help but feeling a little bit resentful towards Talen... And speak of the devil:
Josh, being near to the seat that Talen went to take, could hear the apology Talen stated to Laurie. He couldn't help but think how rehersed it sounded. Wait, why was he so bent on disliking this guy? For all he knew, Talen might have a very good reason for being late. Doubtful, but maybe. If Josh had asked her, he for sure wouldn't have left her hanging like that. It all went back to the thoughts he had earlier. He didn't like seeing Laurie upset. Whenever he saw that worried look on her face her wanted to help. Like back in the Gardens. She had been worried about dancing. And then he told her about his embarrassing dance lesson with Elaina in order to offer to help. Why? No idea. Hopefully, she would be okay now that Talen had arrived. She was probably very happy to see him there...
Josh looked down his plate of food, but at that same moment, Cecily spoke from beside him. “She accepts your apology. She would love to spend the evening with you but she’s upset and disappointed that you’re so very late. Really, Mr Dupree, Miss Cider is a delightful girl and you should feel completely ashamed of yourself for making her wait.” Josh looked over at her. Luckily, when he turned to look at her he was turned away from Talen, who probably wouldn't like to see the brief smile that crossed his lips. He was grateful to her for saying it. Respect points!
"Seconded, with emphasis," Renaye said, giving a brief nod of thanks to Cecily for voicing what everyone there was thinking anyway. She looked over to Josh, wondering if maybe he would act out of character for the dignity of his friend. Her green eyes didn't even get the chance to meet his pale blue ones, however. Josh was already speaking.
"Cecily said it all," he said, his eyes on Talen. "Don't mess up with her because you'll have her friends on your back." He looked away, his gaze resting for a moment on Laurie's brown eyes, before hastily looking away. Renaye smiled at him. She couldn't believe how outspoken he was just then. He must really like her... Renaye looked over at Laurie. How could she not notice? Raye wasn't about to tell her, but there was nothing stopping her from helping her to realize it.
"Anyway," Renaye said, hoping to avoid the awkward silence rapidly approaching. "Talen, right? We're doing a question sort of game. The point is to find out new things about people. So..." Renaye paused, thinking of a question. "What superpower would you want and why?"
0
Josh and Renaye
My watch is fast anyway...
0
Josh and Renaye
0
5
Laurie
March 30, 2008 12:30 AM
Mine shows two freckles past sleepy time. by Laurie
Laurie smothered a grin behind her hand, once again hiding her mouth. Somehow, she didn't think Cecily would appreciate her humor, which was understandable. "You're right, of course," she replied. "I guess the point is to not make it too obvious, which, by now, has been completely defe-"Her words stopped mid-breath, her lips parting into an 'o' of surprise, and then immediately after registering to whom the hand on her neighboring chair belonged, warm welcome. "Talen- you made it." He didn't sit immediately, and instead began a rush of words that did not compute entirely to her. Talen was an idiot and late and wanted to spend this social occasion with her. She could only blink at him for a moment, wondering at his agitation. "It's okay," she began to say, when Cecily decided to answer for her.
“She accepts your apology." Laurie's mouth fell open, even more surprised than before. "Of course, I do," she started, but Cecily had continued:
“She would love to spend the evening with you but she’s upset and disappointed that you’re so very late. Really, Mr Dupree, Miss Cider is a delightful girl and you should feel completely ashamed of yourself for making her wait.”
Her mind went through a spattering of different thoughts and emotions. First, warmth from having her friend (this friend in particular) take up the knight errant position for her, and then embarrassment at the boldness of the words- not to mention the inference they gave. What struck even more potently was that Cecily wasn't far off at all. Laurie had been disappointed, and internally, she had certainly been getting close to upset. She hadn't given her roommate enough credit. Still though, she had to stall this before Talen turned tail and ran.
"No, really, guys, it's all right. I think you're misunderstanding-" But once again, her friends seemed to have jumped the gun. First Renaye, and then a surprisingly vocal Josh- they all had the wrong idea. She felt gratitude for their quick defense of her having been seemingly wronged, but this was a bit much. She stood up, pushing back from her chair, her hands held up as if to ward off their words.
"Thank you, but I think that's enough. I appreciate it, really, but I think you have the wrong idea. Talen's here as my friend, and friends are allowed to be late every now and again, right?" She smiled pleadingly before slowly falling back into her seat. "Okay then," she turned her head to greet Talen properly. "Go on, sit down. I promise, they won't bite."
At least, she hoped, they wouldn't anymore. She leaned in toward the second year, speaking her explaination softly. "I'm really sorry, Talen. I think they misunderstood. It's okay, really." She discreetly pointed out the rest of the table for him, starting with chair to his left. "Beside you is Renaye Warren, and then there's Zane Cooper. Um, and that's Cecily Smythe; she can be a bit out spoken sometimes, but she really does mean well. And," she paused as she came to the last member of their party, her mind still puzzled over the look Josh had given her. It was. . . she shook her head. "And you remember Josh, right? He's Renaye's brother."
She gave him a small smile, taking in for the first time how well he looked. "I'm glad you're here," Laurie admitted, her cheeks more than a little flushed. "You look really nice."
"Anyway." Her attention returned to the rest of the party. Her friend continued, "Talen, right? We're doing a question sort of game. The point is to find out new things about people. So. . .what superpower would you want and why?"
She shot Renaye a look of gratitude. Thank goodness for ice-breakers. . .
0
Laurie
Mine shows two freckles past sleepy time.
0
Laurie
0
5
Eavan
March 30, 2008 1:20 AM
Summer is a lovely time to save the innocent, I hear by Eavan
OOC: It's okay. I actually misspelled her name on the profile application and had to ask that it be changed :PIC:
Eavan's smile faltered almost imperceptibly at the mention of Pepper's mom picking out her dress. If her mother had been alive, she probably wouldn't have let her out of the house in this. Penelope Valentine would have helped her daughter pick the perfect dress instead of being forced to go shopping with the questionable 19 year old mother of her only niece. She had mellowed out since having Taylor, but there that distinct...Sorrel-like scariness still emanating from her, which generally causes Eavan to be wary.
She perked up, however when Pepper went on to mention the rest of her family. Laughing she said, "Wow, sounds like my family a bit. Four brothers, my dad and me. I'd always considered myself tomboy-ish. It was really Danae that brought the girl out in me. She knows her hair and make-up. I think my dad would drop dead if he ever saw me looking like this. He's used to jeans and t-shirts.
Eavan laughed again with the thought of all the Purebloods trying to keep a beat other than a waltz. "I'd love to see some of the snobby people around here dance. Speaking of which..." Eavan paused to listen to the music. The first dance had ended and a much faster one had just started playing. Eavan stood up, trying her hardest not to wobble and held out her hand.
"The last thing I want - or need - to do is sit here the entire night. Let's dance!"
0
Eavan
Summer is a lovely time to save the innocent, I hear
0
Eavan
0
5
Talitha
March 30, 2008 1:22 AM
*laughs* And I as well by Talitha
Talitha giggled over the rim of her goblet of punch before taking a sip. A food fight would be quite a tradition. She could just see the expressions of some of the other Crotali girls if it happened here. She imagined a couple of them with whipped cream and spaghetti in their hair and running down their faces, which caused more giggles to bubble up.“I think I would wear a rain coat to every Opening Feast if that happened here.” Talitha said.
When Adam told her that his sister was in a great deal of pain, Talitha stole another glance at Kaylie. She did look drawn and not very happy in spite of the pretty dress and make up. Talitha wished there was a way to take her to see her mother. She was quite sure her mother would work the miracle needed to make her well again. Wind Blossom could do anything.
“She must be a wonderful sister to have if she puts your feelings before hers.” Talitha smiled sympathetically. And your tender heart shows that you’re a terrific brother to have, she thought but said aloud, “You two seem really close.”
“Wow,” Talitha had to blink when Adam said he had five other siblings. That was a large family! “That must keep you busy when you’re home, being the big brother and all!”
Talitha thought a moment. Chelsea. Chelsea. She knew she’d heard the name and somehow connected that she was Adam’s sister, but she couldn’t put a face to the name.
“I know I should know her.” Talitha thought hard. “I know we’ve been in classes together, but I’ve never worked with her. Is she here? Can you point her out?
“I’m an only child. My folks had to take, like eons to finish their studies, so they figured one would be enough when they finally started their careers.” Talitha’s smile faded just a bit. She knew one reason they decided to not have any more children was because of “It”. Then she realized the pain she’d always experienced whenever she was reminded about those darker days wasn’t nearly as bad anymore. New friends and new skills were healing the wounds of the past. Her smile returned.
“I suppose that was a good thing. They had enough to deal with me around. I was a handful.” Talitha said, secretly feeling a bit triumphant. She’d just chalked up one more victory against her old enemy. She actually made a joke about “It”. This had to be the best night of her life. Even better, she got to share it with Adam.
\n
0
Talitha
*laughs* And I as well
0
Talitha
0
5
Earl
March 30, 2008 1:30 AM
So you don't see us in an alternate universe? by Earl
A small grimace appeared on Earl's face, though he tried to keep it hidden. He liked Nic, but her friends were still basically the uppity snobs he had met in first year. Or he was fairly sure. Noe that he thought about it, he hadn't really talked to any of them in a while. His eyes scanned the room and soon came to rest on one of their faces. Sans date, it seemed.Sighing, he touched the small of Nic's back and guided her through the crowd towards her friends. He really didn't want to sit there. In fact, he still wasn't sure he really wanted to be at the ball. He'd rather that they headed towards the probably deserted Gardens and figure out exactly how she was holding up that dress, but knew that wasn't going to be happening anytime soon.
When they got to the table, Earl gave a polite smile to everyone seated there and was halfway sitting down himself when he jumped up as though trying to sit on a porcupine. He gave a sheepish grin to Nic and pulled out her chair.
"At least I remembered in time." Earl smirked, finally settling himself in the chair next to his beautiful date.
0
Earl
So you don't see us in an alternate universe?
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Earl
0
5
Geoffrey Spindler
March 30, 2008 8:29 AM
Ok, let's try this again. Amy? You around? by Geoffrey Spindler
Geoffrey stood next to Mim's portrait, outside of the Cascade Hall, and tried very hard not to give in to the urge to pull at his collar to try and loosen it. It just wasn't comfortable - none of these formal muggle clothes were, but he didn't have anything else. He knew it wasn't Aunt Rhonda's fault. She'd had a pretty bad past with the Wizarding World. If anything, it was a wonder that she allowed Stephen to enter it. But still, he wished she'd been able to get him dress robes. He was used to them, they were what he had been brought up with and what he found relatively normal and comfortable.These on the other hand...
His Aunt had sent a note along with the clothes, assuring him that Alan had had some input too - something that Stephen said meant the clothes would be good, because Alan was a sharp dresser - but that didn't quite comfort him the way that it had been intended to. For one, he wasn't certain about the black. He was wearing a black long sleeved shirt, and black slacks and black shoes. Apparently his Aunt thought they would go well with his pale complexion, and his dark hair and eyes. And, to contrast with that, she'd included a white tie and vest.
He really wasn't certain about the vest. And the tie was a nightmare. After twenty minutes of struggling with it and trying to get the knot right - why couldn't it be a self-knotting tie at least?! - and have it tucked into the vest properly he'd headed for his Charms textbook, flipping quickly through the pages until he found something that he'd managed to get a reasonable result from. Or at least he through he had. He hoped he had. If only the tie and the collar wasn't quite so tight though.
He saw Jennifer coming, and moved back so she wouldn't see him as she passed. The portrait said something that wasn't quite clear over the din, but sounded something like '...stand like a man...' with a possible mention of Crotalus in there too, but he was easy enough to ignore while Geoffrey's attention was glued to the Quidditch Captain. It was with a mix of regret and relief that he watched her enter the Hall and could go back to looking for his date again. He went over the details again. Her name was Amy. She was a cousin of Gwen. She was a Teppenpaw.
... she wasn't Jennifer.
He was more wrapped up in his thoughts than he'd realised, for the next moment, when he was half-moping and definitely not looking his best (although was that even possible in these impossible muggle clothes?!) there was movement near him and he looked up to see his date had arrived. Geoffrey made an effort to pull himself together.
"Hi," he said. "You made it. That's good. Er... yeah. Really good. And you look good too," he said, approaching earnestness. Stephen had been coaching him on things to say for the past week, and compliments - especially when the girl had dressed up for a special occasion like the Ball - were one of the most important things to remember.
39
Geoffrey Spindler
Ok, let's try this again. Amy? You around?
79
Geoffrey Spindler
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5
Elly
March 30, 2008 11:26 AM
Huh. It's the dress, right? by Elly
OOC: Eek, I don't mean to be writing for others, taking over the thread, etc etc, but I got this prank to pull off... forgive me? Pretty please?BIC:
Elly almost faltered when Echo pulled the chair out for her. He was being such as gentleman and she almost wished he wouldn’t – she wasn’t used to being treated like a girl and it threw her for a loop. Still, once they were seated things began to feel normal again, like they were just eating a normal meal in the Hall, but with dresses and a live band. Okay, so still slightly unusual.
Caedence and Jae had joined them at the table, and Irene and Brett soon arrived, too. Irene was a fountain of compliments; Elly laughed cheerfully. “You look fabulous, too,” she told her. “And yes, you will find out for yourself.”
Elly hadn’t seen Meredith yet. She twisted round in her seat and was fairly sure she saw her over by the door with Matt, but there were so many people milling about and getting in her line of vision that it was difficult to be sure. She did see Saul though, and Briony looking lovely, and she waved them both over – there was still plenty of room left at the table. She also spied Danae and Josh, already sitting together. Smiling to herself, Elly swung back round to face forwards again.
Headmaster Bulla was on the stage, and as he began talking, the seats around her filled and everyone’s attention was focussed on the stage. Seizing her first opportunity, Elly stealthily levitated one of the little tablets, cleverly disguised as breath mints, into Caedence’s drink. She grinned in delight as bubbles began to rise up out of the tumbler. Making sure nobody was looking, she took a second liquid firework and dropped it into Irene’s cup, turning its contents blue. In a few minutes they would turn orange, instead. By this time the Headmaster had finished talking, and food had arrived on the table. “Ooh! Stuffed peppers!” Elly exclaimed before helping herself to some.
As they tucked into their food, Elly leant in to Echo again. “Thanks for asking me,” she said. “I think it’s fun to come as a couple,” she grinned. “I’m going to give a pack to Meredith in a bit,” Elly said, patting her bag that held the tablets, “and do a first sweep of the Hall. Is that okay?”
\r\n\r\n
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Elly
Huh. It's the dress, right?
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Elly
0
5
Echo Elms & Brett Hodges
March 30, 2008 7:59 PM
OOC by Echo Elms & Brett Hodges
Echo is quite pleased with himself and also helping quite happily, and Brett is Brett, but I won't have time to post for a couple days so don't wait for me. I'll catch up real soon.
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Echo Elms & Brett Hodges
OOC
0
Echo Elms & Brett Hodges
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5
Amber Carey
March 30, 2008 8:21 PM
Present! by Amber Carey
Amber arrived in the vestibule later than she'd intended, cursing fashion, trying very hard not to lose her balance in heels or trip over her own dress robes, and allocating her remaining scraps of attention to finding her date. If Geoffrey was where he'd said he'd be, then the crowd made no difference in her appraisal of which task was hardest. She had never worn high heels or long skirts in her life, and her everyday school robes weren't as...frilly as this set.She'd wondered if Meredith hadn't picked them out just for spite, but had finally decided her stepmother had probably had nothing to do with it. Meredith liked to pretend Amber didn't exist, and as Gwen's had been even more a nightmare to consider moving around in, it seemed likely that Andrew had just done the best he could with a hired designer. She couldn't expect much more than that from him, and the pale blue robes really were pretty. If her hair had been put up and her jewelry - a little silver necklace and a very tiny pair of diamond earrings - not loaned by Gwen, Amber might have thought she looked like Cinderella.
When she finally saw Geoffrey, she was so stunned by what he was wearing that she didn't even notice that he looked sort of down. She blinked hard, just to make sure she was really seeing what she thought she did, and then bit down hard on her lower lip to keep from laughing at the irony. How weird was it that she, brought up Muggle, was dressed up like a real pureblooded girl while he, brought up just the opposite from what Gwen had told her, could've easily passed for a younger version of her "Uncle" (the truth of his relationship to her was unknown) Jimbo at a wedding?
Getting a grip on herself, she approached him with a smile, flushing a little when told that she looked nice. "Thanks," she said, twisting a little of the top layer of material of her robes between her left thumb and index finger. "You do, too." She thought that was the correct response. Her cousin had spent most of several days going on endlessly about the correct and incorrect things to say and topics to bring up, and it was hard to remember it all.
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Amber Carey
Present!
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Amber Carey
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5
Adam
March 30, 2008 10:03 PM
Yes it is! by Adam
Adam sat quietly while the Headmaster spoke. He noticed how excited Dalila was when she saw him. He wasn't sure if it was because they were going to the ball or if it was because he was wearing peach. He was almost positive it was a bit of both. He'll never understand why she loved orange so much. It was so...loud. One would have thought that she belonged in Pecari just on her wardrobe choice alone, but her friendly personality seemed to outweigh that. Probably for the best.His blues landed on his ex-girlfriend and her date. Though Adam and Dalila had been dating for nearly a year and he and Nicoletta had been broken up for well overa year, Adam couldn't fight the bit of jealously and resentment that popped up in his chest when he watched them make their way over to a table. But, Adam didn't think about her for long and looked away from her as the Head Boy and Girl were announced. Neither of the candidates really stood out much to Adam when he had voted, but from what he knew of Zack and Jennifer, they seemed to be alright for the positions.
The food arrived shortly and Adam picked out some of his favorites. He knew that it was a ball, so the food would be more high-end than usually, but he sort of found himself missing pizza or hamburgers. Adam just wasn't into this sort of life. His parents had taught him to appreciate what he had, so this style was beyond his understanding or his wanting.
"Not really." Adam answered her with a shrug. He found that honesty was the best policy. Besides, Dalila ought to have known him well enough to know that he didn't like events like this. He couldn't dance or get worked up too much about things and he always felt awkward and a bit stifled in this sort of situation. "But, I figured that you'd be all into this, so I think I can manage getting through it and having a good time too." Adam said, with a teasing grin at her.
0
Adam
Yes it is!
0
Adam
0
5
Josh
March 30, 2008 10:54 PM
Well, one can never be too sure. by Josh
Josh thought he had done a pretty good job with asking Danae to the dance with him. Not only was he comfortable with her, but she was the sort of person that made people turn heads. And now that she was all dressed up with her hair looking lovely and her dress an amazing shade of red, Josh felt even more sure of that. Of course, people might be wondering why she had agreed to go with him to the dance when she could have gone with someone a bit more... popular. For all he knew, she would have rather have been with her Pecari roommates having fun and not sitting here with him not really knowing what to do."You're welcome." He said about the corsage. Just as he had done with his Christmas gift to her, Josh explained to Danae where the corsage came from. "It was my Mama's idea. She always does things like this. She says that it'll make the evening extra special when you think of the little details." Josh smiled at her.
He shook his head at her. "No, unless, by chance, they served it at Sonora." Josh said. His taste buds had mainly consisted of Spanish foods except for the months that he was at Sonora. And then, it was usually things like pasta or pizza or even hamburgers. If and when Sonora did serve food from other cultures, Josh wouldn't have been aware of that, which was sort of sad if one thought about it. He was pretty simple minded when it came to his food.
"So...did you want to hold off on dancing for awhile or were there specific types of music that you'd prefer not to dance to?" Josh asked her while they were eating. "Or, would you not want to dance at all?" He was really hoping that she wanted to dance. He would be okay if she didn't want to do slow dances because that might be a potentially awkward situation for the both of them and required for them to be slightly more intimate than she might have wanted. But, he really did want to dance and hoped she wouldn't mind some of the more upbeat songs.
0
Josh
Well, one can never be too sure.
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Josh
0
5
Adam B.
March 31, 2008 4:17 AM
Well, I wouldn't want to be alone in this crowd. by Adam B.
"I don't even know if I would go to the Opening Feast then." Adam replied. He barely liked to go as it was, because of all the people and only ever did because he tended to be hungry. Of course, once he was there, it was hard to eat due to nerves. "Let's not give anyone any ideas." Adam suggested, with a small smile. Talitha's giggling made him feel happy and he couldn't help but envision Chelsea completely coated in food. Of course, the idea of whatever she'd do to said person who coated her with food was not the least bit pretty. Adam had no idea what she would actually do, of course being that his mind didn't work in the same malicious way as hers but he just knew it would not be pleasant. Thus, it was probably for the best that Sonora didn't start an annual food fight tradition like Salem's. Not to mention the amount of food that would be thrown at him ."Yea, Kaylie's great." Adam answered. "She puts most people's feelings first but she's always been super protective of me especially. The two of us and our cousin, Marshall always have been close. I mean, we don't spend time with each other as much at school as we used to, both having other friends." Ironically, it was actually Adam who had other friends. Kaylie didn't really have any. This was something that still mystified him.
He went on. "Well, I mean, I help out when I'm asked." Adam really wasn't asked too often for some reason though. "The younger ones seem to like me okay, I guess. My parents just really liked kids. My mom especially wanted a big family. It's really spaced out though. Kaylie will be seventeen in July, I turned fifteen in March, Chelsea's twelve, Nina's eight, Hope will be five in August and Evan is three."
"Uh...that's Chelsea over there," he pointed in her direction, grateful that she wasn't looking in his. "You might know her as one of the girls who got kicked out of History of Magic earlier this year." Adam was pretty sure that Talitha would never let Chelsea hear that he'd brought that up. Otherwise, he'd never have mentioned for fear that Chelsea would do something...unpleasant to him. It was simply the easiest way to let Talitha know who his younger sister was.
"Really?" Adam was surprised. He couldn't imagine Talitha being a handful. She was so...normal and down-to-earth and nice. She hardly seemed the kind to cause trouble. Nor did she seem to have any glaring mental issues that would cause parents concern, the way people seemed to think he did. Of course, when it came to him, they were probably right.
11
Adam B.
Well, I wouldn't want to be alone in this crowd.
78
Adam B.
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5
Holly Greer
March 31, 2008 5:07 PM
Oooh! I have a fanclub? by Holly Greer
OOC: Perfectly all right about getting them to the table; if you hadn't I would've. BIC:Holly was relieved that Raoul understood about the preparation party and even happier that he agreed that she did indeed look just like a princess. Her father called her a princess all the time, but it was reassuring to have outside collaboration from someone who wasn't related.
Holly thanked her date politely and sat down in the chair he held out for her. Her heart swelled and she smiled warmly at him at the gesture and thoughtfulness. Raoul was a truly wonderful and respectable boy and she was very glad he'd asked her to the dance. In her eyes, he was looking more and more like a perfect Prince Charming with every passing moment.
When he was seated as well, he asked who she'd gotten ready with and gone on a little too long about how much he did not understand the point of girls taking so long, but she was willing to forgive that tiny imperfection and just answered the question. "I met with Cecily, Anabel, and Alexis from Crotalus, and Chelsea from Aladren. There are an unfortunate lack of first year girls in our House." It wasn't just that there weren't any proper ones - a problem she had feared when Chelsea told her about Pecari's reputation during the Welcoming Feast - it was that she was alone in the first year girl's dorm. She wasn't going to complain about that - she'd had nightmares about sharing a room before coming to Sonora - but it did mean she normally didn't have anyone to help her with her hair and outfit selection in the mornings.
Just then, however, Headmaster Bulla gave his speech, and she turned to listen. Like Raoul, she politely clapped for the two utter strangers who'd made Head Boy and Head Girl, and made a sound far more genuine delight when the food was served. The elves had clearly gone all out and the dishes were ones that were far more common at her home than what was usually served.
She filled her plate with a slice of salmon and a few of her favorite sides and turned another smile on Raoul when he modestly told her that he wasn't a very good dancer. "I'm sure you'll do just fine. I've taken some lessons. It's not difficult. I'll coach you if you need it but most steps are fairly easy to pick up as long as you don't try to do anything fancy."
1
Holly Greer
Oooh! I have a fanclub?
123
Holly Greer
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5
Danae
March 31, 2008 6:06 PM
Very true by Danae
“You’re mother sounds very nice,” Danae commented. It had been nice of her mother to have the dress for the Ball made and to have let her pick the color, but when it came down to it, it was all about impressions. Everything was a reflection of her parents and they wanted to present that they were better than others. It was a shame really, and for Josh’s mother to do something just to be nice, to make it extra special, especially for a girl that she had never met, was incredible.She shook her head about the chance that it was ever served at Sonora. “It’s named for a marathon that occurs between the French cities of Paris and Brest. To celebrate it, the dessert is shaped like a wheel.” She made the shape of a circle with her hands to emphasize the point. “The center is made of praline, so how much you would like it would depend on how much you like that. Maybe one day you’ll get to try it.”
She stabbed one of the vegetables on her plate with her fork. While she was chewing, Josh asked her about dancing. After swallowing, she replied, “No, we can dance to anything, and there’s no reason to hold off.”
Truthfully, she figured the longer they held off, the more uncomfortable or awkward things might become and then they would never actually dance, which would be completely missing the point of the Ball. Besides, she was hoping to be proven that these things could be fun rather than the example that was provided by her family.
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Danae
Very true
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Danae
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5
Talen
March 31, 2008 7:02 PM
What does it show when it's time to wake up? by Talen
When one of the girls spoke up, Talen’s eyebrow quirked in Dupree fashion and it was on the tip of his tongue to make a comment that she should feel ashamed of herself for speaking for another person. Really, it was uncalled for, especially given, as some people preferred not to share their feelings with the world, granted, as Josh was so apt to point out with his remark that Laurie had friends that would be on his back. He frowned at the other boy. What was up with these people? Did they think that he would hurt his only friend? Or at least, would hurt her on purpose? He was already berating himself for having hurt her even the tiniest bit for having lost track of the time.Thankfully, by this time, Laurie had stood up to defend him, which while he was perfectly capable of doing, he preferred the avoidance of conflict and was pleased that she had done so. It meant that she wasn’t angry at him and the offer of spending a wonderful, well, as wonderful as one could hope under the given circumstances, together. After all, that was the whole point of why he had asked her. He wanted to spend time with her and be able to get to know her better since as his father always said, relationships of any kind must always be built on a strong foundation. He wasn’t about to mess that up, so Josh had really no reason to worry.
With a grateful smile to Laurie, he sat down next to her and the girl that had seconded the first in the chair that his hand had rested on only a moment before. Once he did, he worked on committing to memory everyone that Laurie pointed out. The second girl had been Renaye Warren, chances are a relation to Josh, confirmed later as a sibling. The first had been Cecily Smythe. Finally, there was Zane Cooper, who hadn’t said anything at all, which he wasn’t sure if he should be worried about or not.
On the one hand, the other boy may not have cared one way or the other, maybe even been a bit understanding, but on the other, he could have been a part of the group, which then reminded him of sheep and he bit his lip to keep from inappropriately smiling. He may have thought of a more predatory pack animal for the way they had ganged up, but it also seemed as though, they might have been a bunch of followers that tended to go along with whatever was popular to do. Hence, they were sheep. He would even give that they were rabid sheep.
Luckily, he certainly couldn’t imagine Laurie as one, though, if she hadn’t looked so pretty, he might have thought her more of the nursery rhyme involving Little Bo Peep. Fortunately, she interrupted his train of thought when she complimented him on his appearance and rewarded her with a smile. “You look great, too. I really am sorry that I was late at all. I never meant to hurt you.”
Soon enough, the number two girl was asking him a question, as though to include him. He found it amusing, as it was apparent that no one cared, and as unfortunate as it was, he did care, but still found it funny. He was so odd sometimes, but if he couldn’t be a part of the group and make more friends, then he would go in the opposite direction rather than allow himself to be miserable. The question was an interesting one to say the least. What super power would he have and why? A slight smirk came to his lips. “I would have mimicry, the ability to mimic everyone else’s abilities. The reason is so that I wouldn’t be limited in ability.” He tilted his head at Renaye. “And what would yours be?”
0
Talen
What does it show when it's time to wake up?
0
Talen
0
5
Jake
March 31, 2008 8:58 PM
Hopefully soon though by Jake
"I don't think you have to worry about Tally." Jake commented. "When she left the Quidditch team, she told me she wanted time to work on her studies so that she got into a really good university for her study. I figure, she probably wouldn't want the responsibility of being Head Girl with how intense she is with her studies." Jake continued as he stabbed his food with his fork. He didn't know about any of the others. Aside from being in his class or knowing how was dating who, Jake didn't really know any of them well enough to make assumptions on their reactions."Anyway, they can't really be angry with you since it was the all of us who voted." Jake stated. "And I totally voted for you." He added, grinning at Jennifer.
Jake looked around when Jennifer mentioned couples. His eyes immediately rested on his siblings out of habit. He was the eldest of the bunch and so, he did his brotherly duty of making sure they kept in line or didn't need his help with anything (though he doubted his sister would ever ask him for it...she was too much like Jules in that sense). He knew Bella would be with Ben (or Chris as sometimes Jake was confused with how close they were), but he was still surprised by the fact that Matt and Josh both had dates. For some reason, he just didn't think they were old enough yet to even like girls let alone know how to ask them out.
But the more he looked around, he realized she was right. It didn't matter if they were young or old, couples were all around. He wasn't sure why he never noticed it before. "Hey...how long were Dalila and Adam a couple?" He asked, surprise registering that his old summer league Quidditch buddy was dating his Assistant Captain. Had he known that? Jake thought for a moment. He probably did and it just never registered until then.
"That's not much of a wager." Jake said. "I mean, I'm fairly certain Ash and Lizzie will try escaping. And, as much as it makes me sick, Bella and Ben might slip out too." Jake muttered, looking semi-darkly in their direction. "I don't have a clue about the younger ones."
The Prefects dance started and Jake looked longingly at the dance floor. Though he wouldn't likely admit it openly, Jake loved to dance. His family, in general, loved to dance. It was one of those activities that they had all done together. When they were younger and his mother would make dinner, she'd play music and they would all dance around helping her with the food and setting the table. It had made chores bareable whenever she was helping them out.
6
Jake
Hopefully soon though
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Jake
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Nicoletta
March 31, 2008 9:42 PM
I like this universe by Nicoletta
Once at the table, Earl nearly sat down without pulling out her chair. She laughed slightly when he jumped up and seated her. She offered a smile, intent on enjoying the evening. She should enjoy it. She was in her element, right? She was wearing a gorgeous dress. She was with a date that appreciated her, at least, physically. And she was at a formal event. Times like this had been one of the best parts of her family. So, why wasn’t she? A thought occurred to her and she leaned over, placing her hand on her date’s arm and whispered in his ear, “We don’t have to stay long.”Sitting back in her chair, she brushed the hair back that had fallen forward, before the food arrived. It would be a mess if she were silly enough to get her hair in her food. Not to mention, the food might be on her hair. Simply stated, neither would work well with the other. Just as she did, the dinner came. She wasn’t really that hungry and ended up sitting there, picking at the food, and moving it around on her plate. She was much more interested in dancing through a few songs and then getting out of the Ball. But at least she made the obligatory appearance.
Not to mention that she had heard that the prefects were supposed to lead the first dance, which meant that Chris would be a part of that. Her brother was an excellent dancer, much better than she was, not that she was horrible. She had enough lessons to ensure that. Her blue eyes scanned the room, looking for him. She hadn’t spoken to him since the letter had come from her father. Alas, she couldn’t find him. Odd. Stranger still was the realization that this would be the first time they wouldn’t be leaving school together. This would be the first summer that she wouldn’t be around him, especially this summer, knowing that he was to begin his training.
Her thoughts changed when her gaze came to rest on Adam, who was wearing a peach shirt. Not meaning to, she made a slight face, not fond of the color and especially not fond of it on a male. Intent on not dwelling on anything more, she didn’t shift her focus to who she knew was his date, but rather to her date and smiled, suddenly feeling chatty. “So, what are your plans for summer? The aunt I told you about, the one that was disowned? Well, she said I could come live with her. I’ll be heading to Louisiana when term ends. They own a restaurant there and I’ll be helping out. Izzy said she would teach me about muggle money.”
0
Nicoletta
I like this universe
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Nicoletta
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5
Josh
March 31, 2008 10:03 PM
I'll try to stay positive. by Josh
"She's the best." Josh stated so matter-of-factly. If anyone could gather anything from the Santoro children, it was the fact that they held each of their parents with great pride and respect. Though Lupe tended to be a bit stern with her children while Julio was more lax (most believed that to be the other way around, but Julio was a complete pushover), they gave their children freedom to live their lives as they so chose to. Even if it meant losing them in the end. Hannah became a wife and a stay at home mother. Juan left the family to pursue his own beliefs. Julia became an Auror. Paco a Ministry worker. Sophia the model. Jake would (hopefully) go on to be a Pro Quidditch player. Bella the musician. And Matt and Josh? Who knew with the two of them. They had all the opportunities in the world.He listened quietly while Danae tried explaining what the French desert to him. It sounded sort of odd when she described it. "What's praline?" He asked her. Even though he wasn't sure if he would like the desert or not, it sounded intriguing enough to at least see it. "It sounds like it's a sight to see. Maybe I'll have Mama look into it and see if she can get us some to try." Josh mentioned, his mind already working. Although his mom was the best at making Spanish dishes, she was pretty good about trying new things too. Josh could still remember trying sushi. Although he hadn't really cared for it, Matt had ended up loving it.
Finishing his food, Josh watched the Prefects dance. They were pretty funny to watch. A short guy with a tall girl, two girls dancing... at least they all looked like they were having fun. While watching, Josh took a long sip of his drink, unbeknownst to him that a little tablet had made its way into his drink. He set his cup down, staring thoughtfully at it, his tongue smacking against the roof of his mouth a few times.
He continued to look after his drink before turning to look at his date, "My tongue feels funny." He announced to Danae, looking rather displeased by the news. His tongue continued to roll around in his mouth. What Josh didn't know was that his tongue was changing colors at a rapid pace. The sensation wasn't all that pleasing, but if anyone were watching his mouth, they would certainly be entertained by what they saw.
The song ended and soon changed to a more upbeat one. Shrugging off the tongue incident and Looking at Danae, Josh grinned. "No time like the present, yeah?" He stood up and offered his hand to her. "May I have this dance?"\r\n\r\n
0
Josh
I'll try to stay positive.
0
Josh
0
5
Kiva
March 31, 2008 11:04 PM
Oh no, I'm sure no one saw that at all... by Kiva
Kiva looked at the food that Manfred was indicating. They looked alright, but she wasn't so sure about it. It's name was foreign to her, which wasn't surprising since Kiva stuck to simple foods. She enjoyed pasta, but usually it was wheat for healthy reasons. "What's in it?" She asked him much like a child would ask a parent with complete innocense and curiosity entwined in her facial expressions.While she was busy trying to figure out the food, Manfred commented about Zack. Kiva's eyes widened and, without being able to help it, she snorted quietly behind a hand as she struggled to keep herself from laughing. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry." She managed after a moment, really genuinely sorry for laughing. "It's just...Zack? Doing anything remotely wrong? I just can't see it. He gets so easily upset with any sort of discrepency against him. I can't imagine him doing something that could possibly leave a black mark on his impeccable record." Kiva comment, still chuckling quietly.
Her fingers automatically went to her hair and idley played with it when Manfred openly looked her over. It was a little unnerving to be looked at while Kiva was already feeling a tad self-conscious with her looks. But even more than that, Manfred was her boss and her mentor. She felt all the more silly for having dressed up and made herself look remotely like a lady instead of the usual dirt covered animal that she really was. His question caused her to think for a moment. What had she done to get her hair straight? A little bit of everything really.
"Oh, well..." Kiva began, frowning for a moment. "I probably had. Truth be told, I used potions and a bunch of charms to try to get my hair straight." Kiva gave him a sheepish grin. "I've never tried straightening my hair before. There was never a need to. So, it could have been any number of things that I tried or a combination of them all." She paused for a moment before smoothing her hand over her hair. "I don't think I'll do it again though. I feel a bit like a fool at the moment."
0
Kiva
Oh no, I'm sure no one saw that at all...
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Kiva
0
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Geoffrey S.
April 01, 2008 3:13 AM
Your presence is present enough ;) by Geoffrey S.
"I do?" Geoffrey asked, wistful and not entirely convinced. "It's just so hard to tell how some of these Muggle things..." he stopped and cleared his throat, mildly embarrassed about what he'd been saying. "I mean, thank you." At least she looked relatively normal, in a well dressed sense. Obviously she had family who had been able to properly outfit her for such an occasion, and Geoffrey made a mental note of that. It meant he really shouldn't slip up and make a fool of himself, or risk news of it getting back to his mother.Not that she really mattered or could... Merlin, you'd think after a year and a half away from her he'd worry less about what she'd do to him over stupid, silly little things. But he couldn't help it. She was his mother, regardless of everything, and what he really wished for was that she would love him. Accept him for who he was. And all the knowledge in the world that that would never happen didn't help.
"Er... so," he said, making an effort to sound suave and whatever else he was supposed to be. "Lovely as it is to stand around here and make small talk," had Mims just hurrumphed? "I do believe there is a Ball awaiting us. Through those doors. Merlin forbid we deny the room our presence any longer than strictly necessary." Stephen would be proud, Geoffrey thought. Hint of humour, hint of the arrogance that seemed to work for his cousin so well (although he wasn't sure he'd pulled it off quite right... but points for trying, right?) - definitely suave.
He smiled at Amy, the expression being enough to wipe away his habitual look of worry and make it more obvious that he was turning into quite a handsome young man, for all he wasn't very aware of it - particularly whilst wearing muggle getup.
"Shall we?" he asked, extending his arm like he remembered seeing his father doing with his mother at social occasions.
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Geoffrey S.
Your presence is present enough ;)
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Geoffrey S.
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5
Manfred
April 01, 2008 9:37 AM
Good. Else there might have been need for (re)Incarnation. by Manfred
"Mostly spinach and ground pork," Manfred answered, taking the opportunity to eat another of the pasta pillows. "They're rather good actually, I'll have to remember to ask Tuppy to have the kitchens make them more often."He raised an eyebrow when Kiva started to laugh, glancing back over to where the Head Boy presumptive was sitting and noting that he still seemed somewhat shell-shocked. Looking back at Kiva he gestured wordlessly, both palms facing up and shoulders following the move up. "Wrong, I would agree he'd avoid. Which is why I gave him the benefit of the doubt. But odd? Surely you have to agree with me there. I'm sure he'll make a fine, upstanding and responsible Head Boy. I just hope he manages to retain his presence in the real world while doing so."
He nodded thoughtfully at her answer to his question about her hair. In hindsight it made sense that she had used multiple methods, but it would have been far more intriguing if it had just been the one charm. He knew that it hadn't been likely but, eh, how was one to conduct a proper rational thought let alone consider things properly in this hullabaloo?
"You really should try some," he said, moving back to the earlier topic of food. "After all, when better to try something new than at a feast?"
39
Manfred
Good. Else there might have been need for (re)Incarnation.
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Manfred
0
5
Toma Valson
April 01, 2008 10:54 AM
Practise makes perfect by Toma Valson
Of all the possible response that could have been uttered, Toma couldn’t claim that he had been expecting an exclamation about the origin of his name. Nevertheless, he smiled with good humour and answered in his gruff voice. “Not at all. It is Romanian, and I’m rather fond of it.”The stranger then introduced himself and the man seated beside him. “Please to meet you both,” Toma assured them with a nod of his head. He noticed the omission of any indication of the relationship between the two men, and took this as a warning not to ask any questions on the subject; once upon a time, he had introduced Sadi to friends and colleagues as ‘his guest’, and in doing so had forestalled any questions pertaining to their relationship, or the whereabouts of Toma’s first wife. Through his own experiences he had discovered that where no information was forthcoming, it was of no benefit to one to seek it.
“Is this your first visit to the school?” Tarquin (another unusual name) enquired.
“Not as such,” Toma replied between mouthfuls. “I have made visits before, but they have only been brief, and usually I see no-one but Sadi.” He smiled cheerfully. “So this is my first opportunity to appreciate the school and its inhabitants,” he gestured to the hall at large with an empty fork. He was keen to include the other gentleman, Danny, in the conversation, seeing as they had been introduced, but he didn’t want to talk across Tarquin. Trying to address them both at once, he said, “Presumably the students aren’t always quite so loud.”
Toma wasn’t usually a fan of small talk, but sometimes it was often called for, and he felt as though this was one such occasion.
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Toma Valson
Practise makes perfect
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Toma Valson
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5
Pepper
April 01, 2008 2:23 PM
Excellent, I didn't have any plans by Pepper
"I win," she grinned, good naturedly, and utterly uncompetitively as Eaven mentioned her number of siblings, "Three brothers plus the tomboy, and another little sister." It was odd that people at school might be unaware of her bundle of siblings. Around home, they'd all been in the same schools. She'd always been 'one of the Joneses'. People thought of her as the big sister of the big family. But here she was a one. She'd never really grown used to that, and still wasn't particularly fond of it."Mine too, a bit. A dress, even this one, is a novelty," she confessed, in reply to Eavan's jeans and t-shirts, dad-non-recognition comment. "I get D's hand-me-downs, so that's boys' jeans, and t-shirts with bands I've never heard of on. I'd always get these teenage guys coming up to me at home and going, kinda perplexed, kinda impressed, 'Whoa, you like... are into Toxic Grunge Deformity too?'," she said, doing a fairly accurate impression of a gormless teenage boy, and throwing together words that sounded vaguely like the ones in the names of bands that Demetrius listened to. She shook her head, switching back to her own voice, "I was so confused the first few times it happened. And then seriously tempted to paint 'No, I do not like this band' on the back of every t-shirt I owned.
"Sure, why not?" she shrugged as Eavan suggested they danced. It probably wasn't going to look elegant, but it would hopefully be fun. She took Eavan's proferred hand and allowed herself to be led onto the dance floor. She gave a little twirl under the other girl's arm, as that was pretty much the easiest move she could make, then held her own arm aloft, so that Eavan could have a spin herself. "I may have to diversify into other moves before the end of the night," she grinned, "at risk of extreme dizzyness, but this is a start."
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Pepper
Excellent, I didn't have any plans
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Pepper
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Dalila
April 01, 2008 6:25 PM
Now I feel special by Dalila
Dalila looked, up, rather surprised at Adam's answer. She never thought he would be as excited about the ball as she was, but she didn't think he'd be so...apathetic about it. But a small grin appeared when he told her that he was there because SHE wanted to be there. With that, she leaned over and gave him a kiss."I knew there was a reason I kept you around," she smirked. "I promise to try and make it as fun as possible for you. But I guess that means no crazy dance moves ending in fireworks on the floor, huh." She tried to keep a serious face as she said it, but cracked into a hug grin after a only a second.
"It's going to be good. I promise. I swear on my wand...though I didn't bring it with me." Dalila confirmed this by patting herself down and shrugging when she didn't produce her wand.
She sometimes wondered about her and Adam's relationship. She cared for him - no doubt about that - but her thoughts kept on wandering back to the reason she had talked to him in the first place. To get Jake off her mind. Granted, her plan had worked splendidly, but she was always unsure about the fact that their relationship was based on Dalila trying to forget someone else.
Somewhere during her thought processes, the food had vanished and the first chords of a song could be heard through the chatter. Dalila looked out over the sea of people and soon noticed all the prefects getting out of their chairs and heading onto the dance floor. Dalila had long ago gotten over being passed over for a prefect, and was rather glad she didn't get the honor: the little kids were annoying when tattling on each other.
When more people started to join the prefects out on the floor, Dalila grabbed Adam's hand. "Let's dance."
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Dalila
Now I feel special
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Dalila
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5
Talitha
April 01, 2008 6:58 PM
Glad we've got each other by Talitha
“Oh yes,” Talitha said when Adam pointed Chelsea out. She couldn’t help but notice the different tones he’s used when he talked about each sister. Even though Adam didn’t really say anything bad about Chelsea, it was obvious that he was much closer to Kaylie. Chelsea didn’t really seem like a girl that Talitha would choose for a friend, but remembering her outburst, she decided it would be wrong to be judgmental. “That was a rough class. I kinda had a meltdown myself. The professor just gave me extra work though.”Talitha hoped he leave it at that and not ask details. How in the world do you delicately describe PMS to a boy? Quickly, she changed the subject back to siblings.
“I wish I had brothers and sisters. Elly is the next best thing. She’s been like a big sister to me ever since I came here. I don’t think she’s ever said an unkind word to or about anyone.” Talitha smiled and waved in Elly’s direction. “And while I know Jae is my age, he feels like a little brother somehow. He can always make my laugh.”
A chain reaction began amongst the tables, starting from the one’s in the middle and working its way out. People were jumping up as their cups began to spark or bubble. Others were showing off their suddenly Technicolor tongues. For a few minutes the laughter and cries were so loud, you couldn’t hear the band. All of this was punctuated by the pops and cracks of fireworks. Talitha couldn’t help but laugh at the merry chaos she witnessed throughout the room.
“This is better than a food fight any day!” She exclaimed. “But now I’m really glad you chose this table. It doesn’t seem our drinks aren’t spiked with whatever was in theirs.”
Just to be one the safe side, she gingerly pushed her goblet a few inches away from her. She loved seeing the effects, but Talitha didn’t want to break the spell either. Punch bubbling up and staining her dress would not be desirable at this time. Adam hadn’t even asked her to dance yet.
“Can I ask a favor of you?” Talitha said once some of the noise died down. “Before you leave, can you give me your address so I can send you an owl or two this summer?”
\n
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Talitha
Glad we've got each other
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Talitha
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5
Danae
April 01, 2008 7:40 PM
Always a good thing to do by Danae
Danae tilted her head when Josh asked what praline was. She had thought that it was a fairly common thing, but supposed not. “It consists of nuts, usually almonds, that are individually coated with caramelized sugar and then ground up to be used in cakes and pastries. It’s very tasty. Well, provided you aren’t allergic to nuts. Are you?” It would be a shame if he was, but it would be worse for him to have eaten it and had an allergic reaction.When Josh announced that his tongue felt funny, she didn’t think much about it immediately, especially, as he soon asked her to dance with an offered hand. She took his hand and stood up. At the same time, she noticed that his tongue was changing to various colors. She bit her lip to keep from giggling, because it was rather amusing, but she didn’t know how he would take it. Letting go of his hand, she grabbed her purse and dug around for a moment, before pulling out a small mirror. “Um, Josh, you might want to check out your mouth,” she said, handing him the mirror.
It looked like someone had played a prank on Josh. She wondered if there were more to come and was a little surprised that someone would have done anything at the Ball, but she supposed it was a perfect opportunity with everyone gathered in the Hall. Since it seemed like Josh wasn’t in danger, she ventured to ask, “Would you still like to dance?” She hoped so and that the evening wasn’t ruined. She had actually been looking forward to it.
0
Danae
Always a good thing to do
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Danae
0
5
Hannah
April 01, 2008 8:35 PM
Did you think I would desert you? :P by Hannah
“Thanks,” Hannah replied, smiling more when he returned the compliment, even if had probably been out of politeness since she had made a comment about his clothing. Though, when he went on about her hair, she blushed slightly. She had a funny feeling in her stomach and was pleased that he had noticed the difference. Not sure what else to say, she just gave another, “Thank you,” and was glad when he suggested they find a table.Following him through the mass of students, they stopped at a table close to the stage. “No, this is good,” she answered. “We won’t be sitting much anyhow.” She stopped at the realization of her presumption. She didn’t know if Oliver even wanted or knew how to dance. Backing up on what she said, she continued, “I’m sorry, I just assumed we would be dancing after we ate, so we wouldn’t spend much time at the table. Do you like to dance?”
It seemed like such a silly question to ask, as she took her seat, but just because he had asked her to the Ball didn’t mean that he enjoyed dancing. They could have had just as good of a time sitting and talking or mingling with the other students. “If you don’t, we don’t have to,” she said, though, she probably didn’t really need to, but wanted to make sure that she didn’t mind if he didn’t want to.
0
Hannah
Did you think I would desert you? :P
0
Hannah
0
5
Adam B.
April 02, 2008 5:21 AM
*blushes* by Adam B.
"That seems unfair," Adam replied. Maybe Chelsea was right after all and Professor Flatt was a bit unreasonable. He could have possibly seen his sister do something that would make the professor mad, even though naturally Chelsea had made it seem like the other girl's fault entirely. However, to give additional work to someone who'd been upset-as Chelsea had mentioned Talitha had been once she'd found out Adam was friends with her-didn't seem right. Being unhappy or stressed out made it harder to function and thus harder to do things like schoolwork,(even though Adam primarily liked school work and was probably going to continue with History of Magic even though Flatt was mean to his friend.) "He's kind of strict anyway.""Brothers and sisters can be great, but they can be...well, um..." Adam trailed off. "There are drawbacks," he finished. He personally never thought of anyone from Sonora as a sibling, but then he had several and two of them were here. If Adam had ever considered anyone at Sonora to be like a sibling, they'd probably be more of the Chelsea variety than the Kaylie one.
He also wasn't too sure that Talitha's friends liked him much either (although, he got the impression that Jae liked everyone. After all, that was the boy who had hugged him during the COMC lesson.) Adam hoped they wouldn't turn her against him.
Adam watched as the fireworks and whatnot happened. "I'm glad to be over here too," he replied. He had to admit though, she was right. It was better than a food fight. A food fight would be all over the place, including on them . Plus, this was just...better.
"Sure!" Adam exclaimed. He turned bright red. "I mean, yes. I'd be happy to give it to you." Just then a slow song came on. "Do you uh, want to dance?" He asked, blushing harder.
11
Adam B.
*blushes*
78
Adam B.
0
5
Oliver
April 02, 2008 11:03 AM
... It had crossed my mind. by Oliver
Well at least Hannah had indicated that she wanted to dance. Oliver had thought she probably would – girls liked dancing, didn’t they? He’d already resigned himself to the possibility that he may have to spend all night on his feet, and that was okay. “Dancing is fine,” he assured Hannah as they took their seats. “I’m not any good, but as long as you don’t mind dancing with my two left feet then we’ll be okay.” Oliver smiled and hoped that she wouldn’t mind – of course there was the possibility she would refuse to be seen dancing with someone who wasn’t as graceful as herself (which would definitely rule Oliver out) but he didn’t think she would; Hannah was a nice girl. Besides, Oliver’s dancing abilities were not quite so non-existent as he had emulated; he couldn’t dance well, that much was true, but he wasn’t especially awful. Dancing in dress robes though… that was going to be a new one. Still, it wasn’t going to be enough for Oliver to give up the chance to be seen dancing with the prettiest girl in the school.The Headmaster began his speech, and introduced next year’s Head Boy and Girl. Oliver clapped loudly for Jen; she was a great Quidditch captain and would probably be a good Head Girl, too. Then the food arrived and Oliver helped himself to some spaghetti and meatballs. “So, um, what are your plans for the summer?” he asked Hannah. It seemed as good a conversation topic as any, and they were here to get to know each other better.
0
Oliver
... It had crossed my mind.
0
Oliver
0
5
Zane
April 02, 2008 7:05 PM
The almighty snooze button by Zane
“You don’t know my mother,” Zane shook his head seriously. The boy was genuinely surprised when everyone started laughing, but attributed this to the fact that they didn’t know his mother. If they did, they’d be just as utterly serious about the matter as he was. Dorinda Cooper had grown up in a house with all brothers, and now as an adult was the only woman of the house. As such, it was a well-known fact that she was not to be messed with, and if you wanted anything, Dad was the pushover.Zane curled a fist over his mouth and pretended to cough as he tried and quite possibly failed to conceal a chuckle. Did people seriously talk like that anymore? The boy couldn’t even tell if Cecily was being sarcastic or serious when she responded to Talen. As a middle-class, mixed-blood, small-town boy from Oregon, the notion that either of them could be completely serious seemed ridiculous to him. And who really cared if the poor kid came on time or not? Merlin knew that Zane himself was late for things (things usually being classes) all of the time.
Clearly untrained in the finer rules of formality, it took Zane about a minute to regain his composure. Even then he kept his mouth shut, for fear that he might start laughing. On a good note, he found that he was finally beginning to get over the shock of Renaye being a Girl, and might even be able to hold normal conversation with her in the near future. Not now, though. For now, it was probably safest that he continue drinking his punch.
Upon hearing Laurie introduce him, he nodded in Talen’s direction in what he hoped appeared to be a friendly manner. He’d seen the other boy around before in classes and such, but didn’t know a thing about him. So far, it appeared as if the boy was of the snobby breed of pureblood, the type that liked to shove their family tree in people’s faces as proof of their worth. But there had to be some sort of redeeming quality about him, if Laurie had invited him. Zane didn’t think she was any sort of toady.
By the time Talen was apologizing for his tardiness and the possible slighting of Laurie, Zane had heard enough, “Relax, man. We’re all here now – who cares who was late?” he reassured him. Zane had never possessed the wits required for subtlety, so he preferred to be blunt, and felt most comfortable around people who felt the same way. No better than the ordinary human, wizard or Muggle, he tended not to trust what he couldn’t understand, and witty banter certainly mystified him.
0
Zane
The almighty snooze button
0
Zane
0
5
Tarquin Reynolds
April 02, 2008 7:24 PM
How now brown cow... In Hertford, Hereford and Hampshire.... by Tarquin Reynolds
"Ah. Having gone to school in Canada is about as much exoticism as I can lay claim to," Tarquin smiled as Toma informed them that his name was Romanian. "So, were you born there, or..?" he left the question open, given that it had several permutations, making that the most elegant way to ask the extent of Toma's connection to the country."I wound't really know, as such," he mused, as Toma contemplated the general volume level of the student body, "Even in my free time, I tend to keep to the library," he explained, hoping that he'd hit upon the way of phrasing that which made him sound least like a pitiful recluse, "The students who tend to frequent it are quiet by nature, and the rest go quiet when they get in there. The ball has been quite the source of excitement though," he added, his mouth twitching in a little smile under his beard and moustache.
He noted that Toma had asked no questions about his and Danny's relationship. He hoped from discretion, rather than discomfort.
"You speak for your library dwellers, but I'm sure I was this loud on a general basis when I was at school," Danny chimed in, to the extent one can be said to be chiming in when the comment is self-referential.
"I never doubted that," Tarquin muttered, in an entirely audible "undertone" but with a fond smile at his partner. Had it not been for Toma, he might have made a comment about how bad Danny had been at university, but he didn't want to veer onto the diversion of an exclusive, coupley chat, as was so easy to do. Had they been on their own, he might have asked whether Danny had been as over-the-top at school, or whether his overly exciteable nature and excessive squealing at university had been the peak of his melodramatic queen phase. But they were in public.
13
Tarquin Reynolds
How now brown cow... In Hertford, Hereford and Hampshire....
1464
Tarquin Reynolds
0
5
Earl
April 02, 2008 9:16 PM
With a dress like that, so do I :) by Earl
Earl felt himself tense when he felt the light pressure of Nic's hand on his arm. He tried not to give away exactly how much just a simple touch could affect him, but it was hard when she leaned towards him and whispered in his ear. Earl was sure if it was what she said or the feeling of her breath, but it sent a shiver down his spine. He gave her a smirk and squeezed the hand that rested on his arm."I'm thinking dinner and a few dances is good enough before we find our own fun." The food appeared and Earl, not realizing how hungry he was until that point piled food onto his plate. They ate in silence until Nic asked began a conversation.
"Oh, wow. Nic, that's pretty cool. But Louisiana?" Earl said, and made a face. "It's going to be hot as hell there during the summer. At least in L.A. it's a dry heat." Earl looked thoughtful for a second, before looking at his date and tentatively shared what he was thinking.
"You know, if you don't want to spend the entire time with your aunt and working in a restaurant, you could come visit me." He put his fork down and looked at her seriously for a moment. Then he grinned.
"I promise my dad won't make you work. I have funny feeling you wouldn't want to do other people's taxes anyways."
0
Earl
With a dress like that, so do I :)
0
Earl
0
5
Eavan
April 03, 2008 1:30 AM
It works perfectly then! by Eavan
Eavan grinned. "Fine. You win." She giggled at Pepper's story about the t-shirts. She had gone around wearing her oldest brother's shirts and gotten very confused when teenage boys complimented her on an awesome Led Zeppelin shirt, but by now, she knew who they were and didn't get confused.She gave an inward sigh of relief. She had been half afraid that it would take some coercion to get Pepper on the dancefloor, but she was happily mistaken. Eavan giggled when Pepper spun underneath her arm and mimicked the move when her friend lifted her arm for her.
"I don't know. I could have a blast spinning until we both fall down." Eavan gave another spin, but started just moving her feet along to the rhythm.
"Besides the spinning, this is all I got." Eavan laughed.
0
Eavan
It works perfectly then!
0
Eavan
0
5
Talitha
April 03, 2008 1:48 AM
*demures* by Talitha
“Really, he was being more than fair.” Talitha felt she had to defend the eccentric History of Magic professor. Up until the point of her meltdown, she really had enjoyed the class. She liked any challenge that made her really use her brain and think. “I, well, one of the other students made a statement that I took as racist. I can’t stand bigots or bullies and well, I blew up and screamed an entire sermon at him in front of everybody. Turns out I interpreted what he was trying to say wrong and actually, he had a valid point. The way I acted, I’m lucky I didn’t spend the entire semester in detention.“The good thing that came out of it is that Professor Flatt made us stay after class and talk things out. We’re okay now and I’ve learned to listen to meanings behind words a bit better. I also count to ten before I speak when I get angry before opening my mouth though. But you‘re right, he is very strict.”
Talitha sat back with Adam and enjoyed the fireworks and drinks do there best to throw things into happy chaos. If she had been in her usual tomboy mode, more likely as not, she would have jumped into the fray, dragging Adam along with her to share in the fun. Spontaneity was a strength as well as a weakness. Spontaneity got her roped into that silly bet with Oliver during the opening day of Noveling Fury. She idly wondered who would win. But tonight was special. It was not a time for rough housing and being wild.
“Thank you,” Talitha said when Adam told her he would give her his address. “I can’t promise a lot of letters, but I will write. I promise.”
"Do you uh, want to dance?" Adam asked as a lovely slow, romantic song came on. Talitha bit her lower lip as she felt her own cheeks grow hot, suspecting her blush was as deep as his. There was that feeling again, wonderful and giddy and shy all at the same time. She looked up at Adam, her smile bright, her eyes shining.
“I’d love to, Adam.” Then she giggled at how goofy that sounded. “After all, that’s what we came here for.”
\n
0
Talitha
*demures*
0
Talitha
0
5
Cecily
April 04, 2008 8:49 AM
Snooze is an appropriate word by Cecily
Cecily’s amusement increased considerably as the Warrens joined in what had initially been a playful admonishment, and Laurie was obviously embarrassed by their unwavering support. Sipping her juice with delicacy, Cecily continued to watch the group’s exchanges over the rim of her goblet. Unfortunately, they soon landed back on another ridiculous game of fantasy and small talk, and boredom started to overwhelm Cecily. She knew Anabel and the others would rescue her if necessary, but they had only just finished eating, which meant that Cecily was going to have to out up with this group a little while longer.On the positive side, Josh had thus far been an acceptable date. True he wasn’t exactly ideal, but he hadn’t yet done anything to make Cecily regret her decision to accompany him. Still, she couldn’t be doing with this sitting around talking nonsense. The band had already started playing, and several couples were dancing. Cecily glanced at her empty plate, and then looked pointedly at Josh, hoping he would get the message and ask her to dance. She didn’t want to have to spell it out to him, but she would rather forgo a little dignity than have to spend a great deal more time playing introduction games. She rather thought that her dignity was being wasted on her current company, anyway.
0
Cecily
Snooze is an appropriate word
0
Cecily
0
5
Mia Kerova
April 04, 2008 4:01 PM
Ready as I'll ever be. by Mia Kerova
Mia's heart was racing a million miles per hour. She stood in front of the mirror looking over herself one last time. She readjusted the halter top of her peach dress and tugged at the stiff mesh beneath the skirt to make sure it was even all around. She fixed her highlights and then pulled her hair back with lacquered chopsticks. Her face was done up a fair bit more than the usual eyeliner and chapstick. She even added a hint of glitter around her eyes like her mom showed her the weekend she had gone home to get her dress. All in all, it was a lot of effort put into one evening and she really hoped it was worth it.Mia didn't know why she felt so nervous. She wasn't on a date or anything. It was just a dance with a friend. She wasn't nervous about any homework or tests. School was basically finished by that point. Then her eyes were drawn to a glint of bronze on her bed that she spotted through the mirror. Oh. She remembered why she was nervous. The announcement for Head Boy and Girl. Mia already knew she wouldn't get it. Not for not thinking she deserved it, but the moment they were told that the students would be picking, she knew she was automatically doomed. It had turned into a popularity contest and Mia and popularity contests didn't mix. Yet even with that thought, she couldn't shake the butterflies. She was very much in the mood for a cup of what she had over the summer. That sure mellowed her out, but there was no way to have any at school. She shook her head. Besides, what kind of stupid thought was that?
With a deep breath, Mia left the dorm room and met her "date" in the common room. She curtsied at Stephen's compliment and returned one of her own, honestly impressed by how he cleaned up, and walked with him to Cascade Hall. She saw the band set up on the stage and marveled at it as well as everything else that was different about Cascade Hall in honor of the Ball. They sat at one of the tables and soon the Headmaster began his speech.
Geez! Could he possibly speak any slower? She just needed to hear a name to either be pleasantly surprised or expectedly disappointed. Head Boy was announced first. Mia saw Stephen rising beside her and grabbed hold of his arm to stop him from completely leaving the area. A name hadn't even been called yet. According to Headmaster Bulla, it wasn't his anyway. Ouch. Way to call him out, Headmaster. Stephen was really popular, but Mia couldn't lie to herself. She had voted for Zack. Only because as a title of power, the position of Head anything ought to go to someone who would take it seriously. She knew Zack took being a prefect seriously. Almost too seriously. She wondered if maybe the professors did have a say in the choice after all. Stephen was just a little too carefree. Oh man, she really hoped this didn't come up in a conversation.
Zack Dill, Mia looked at Stephen with mild amusement at his surprised exclamation, and—Jennifer Zucchero. Sudden disappointment squeezed Mia's chest painfully for an elongated moment, but she smiled outwardly for Jennifer and only paused briefly before applauding with everyone else. Sure she could've been a wonderful Head Girl, but it wasn't meant to be if it was the students' vote. And Jennifer would be great too. She already proved she was a great leader with the Quidditch team.
"Super sucks." Mia replied to Stephen. Her eyes lingered on the pair going up for new badges, but she still smiled. She was good at that. All right. No more thinking about it or she would start moping or something. Tonight wasn't for moping. It was for having a good time with friends at a ball with awesome food and a live band! When food was set out for them, Mia dared to try a few new, but really enjoyable looking dishes. And enjoy them she did and her mood rose again with her stomach happily settled. Soon it was clear the entertainment was beginning. Mia quietly took in a deep breath and then Stephen offered her his hand with one of those smiles she found herself indescribably drawn to. Date or not, she was glad he was with her.
"It's cool." Mia blew off the jinx ideas. "Like we really need anything extra to think about during seventh year, right? Let's go dance." It really was one less stress causing matter to add to RATS. Mia could settle for prefect. She let him lead them to the dance floor. "No stepping on my feet, okay?" She added playfully. "These shoes are painful enough." She lifted the skirt of her dress a little and twisted her tattooed ankle to show off the silver heeled shoe. She hadn't thought to use a spell on the shoes until after the throbbing became unbearable earlier on so they were still a little sore, but they weren't going to stop her from the big dance of the evening.
"The price of beauty, Mia." Lyn had told her. Thank goodness for her wand or she would say it wasn't worth it.
0
Mia Kerova
Ready as I'll ever be.
0
Mia Kerova
0
5
Stephen
April 06, 2008 8:38 AM
Good. Let's show these people how to party! by Stephen
"No stepping, I promise," Stephen said with a laugh. "And, seriously, kick off the shoes if it gets too much. I won't care." He pulled her towards the dance-floor, resisted the effort to look around for Sorrel once more and started things off by twirling Mia around.Then, with a nod to the entertainment, he just let loose with the dancing.
Whether there was rhyme or reason to Stephen's moves was entirely up to the interpretation of the watcher, but there certainly wasn't an once of self-consciousness or restraint. Stephen's theory when it came to dancing was, if you weren't having any fun no one was, so you might as well have some fun. His opinion also stretched to dancing around stiffly the way some of the others appeared to be doing, but he figured that if that was what made them happy, so be it. He wasn't the dictator of dance.
This wizarding music was pretty cool. He'd have to as Sorrel if there were CD's or the like that you could buy, and where to get them. Somehow, he didn't think that Geoff's upbringing had included anything like this. Catching the hint that the song was drawing to a close, he pulled what he considered to be a pretty damn good finishing move before, panting slightly because of his exuberant dancing style, he flicked his hair back with a careless gesture and bowed to Mia.
"Up for another, or is it punch next?" he asked, eyes dancing.
39
Stephen
Good. Let's show these people how to party!
0
Stephen
0
5
Josh and Renaye
April 06, 2008 10:28 AM
We'll have to fix that. by Josh and Renaye
Okay, so it had seemed like a good idea a minute ago. Renaye understood Laurie's reaction though. Why had she thought reprimanding Talen was a good idea? Well, she did it because she knew Laurie had been wondering where he was and was getting worried over it. Renaye made a mental note to think ahead next time. Josh didn't look like he regretted anything though. He was finishing with his food and looking across at the dance floor, but it appeared he wasn't really seeing it. Renaye almost laughed when he caught Cecily's eye, who was giving him the "Dance with me." look, and look immediately a little uneasy about the dancing thing. Raye knew there was no reason for him to be nervous. He had taken a class with Laine (which she still teased him about to this day). Josh would be fine."Do- Do you want to dance?" he asked, standing up. Josh knew that Cecily was his date and that he should be doing his best to make sure she had a good time. But he sort of wanted to continue this game. He loved hearing the different answers, even if he had to come up with them himself. Nevertheless, he should be a good date. He glanced at his twin and noticed the entertained look on her face. He was tempted to make some sort of comment, but he held it back. Beside Renaye, Zane was looking a little dazed. Josh gave a small laugh at his friend and said,
"Alright there, Zane?"
"I would have mimicry, the ability to mimic everyone else’s abilities. The reason is so that I wouldn’t be limited in ability. And what would yours be?” Renaye almost rolled her eyes, but held back. That was one of the answers people gave to avoid picking a favorite. It was a smart answer, but it lacked in entertainment. It was like wishing for more wishes or picking fresh water and food as two things to bring on an island. Smart answer, but come on...
"Intangible invisibility," she replied immediately. "Sort of like an invisible ghost or something. Think of all the possibilities! I would have so much fun with that. It's so full of opportunity."
0
Josh and Renaye
We'll have to fix that.
0
Josh and Renaye
0
5
Bianca Tiblin
April 06, 2008 2:26 PM
(re)Attending Sonora's quadennial ball by Bianca Tiblin
Cascade Hall tended to be one of the places little Bianca Tiblin shied away from, being one of the more populated areas of the school, even though it was one of, if not her absolute, favorite room in the entire school. The way it lit up thanks to the light from the chandeliers bouncing off the waterfalls and the marble. It was so serene and ethereal. Well, if one could discount the usual dull roar of students. And tonight it was even more beautiful than usual as well as louder. She hadn't seen Sonora in such a frenzy over the Midsummer Ball in so many years. Ever since that accident. Such a shame, but she was excited to see that frenzy once again. The room was brimming with energy and life. Life. Her translucent hand covered her mouth as she giggled.Bianca floated overhead in her own dress. She thought it was lovely though it was far outdated compared to all of the shimmery, new dresses the girls were wearing these days. She watched the current students with a smile as they walked in with dates, greeted friends and waited excitedly for the evening's events to begin. Bianca could barely wait herself. She never got the chance to have a date to the Ball unfortunately, but she was happy to settle on watching everyone have a lovely time. It made her happy to see others happy. That was just the kind of girl Bianca was.
Bianca applauded the new Head Boy and Girl and floated down a little closer to the action. She smiled at the delicious smells drifting upward to her, though she couldn't partake in any of it herself. It was all right. She had long since become used to not eating. When the food had been consumed and the band began playing, Bianca watched the prefects begin the dancing. She clapped merrily with the music and then began to dance on her own, pretending she had a partner to twirl her about.
0
Bianca Tiblin
(re)Attending Sonora's quadennial ball
0
Bianca Tiblin
0
5
Hannah
April 06, 2008 7:29 PM
Aww, I would never do that by Hannah
Relief washed over Hannah at Oliver’s reassurance that dancing would be fine. Even though she didn’t admit it, she was looking forward to dancing. Of course, there was the slight nagging of doubt at her ability to dance at all. She had never had any formal training in the matter. Her mother had, but she never liked to talk about her childhood. No, her only training consisted of sometimes dancing around the house with her mom and sister for fun. She wondered if that was enough to ensure that she wouldn’t make a complete joke of herself in front of the other students. Of course, how many would be great dancers?She didn’t have much time to dwell on her thoughts, as the Headmaster was beginning his speech. She clapped for the new Head Boy and Girl, along with Oliver, but she didn’t really know much about either, except of course, that Jen was an amazing Seeker. Once that was over, the food arrived. She eyed the spaghetti and meatballs that Oliver took and wished she could as well, but thought it best not to. It was a messy dish and she was a bit of a messy person, the two would not go well with the beautiful green dress that she was wearing. She opted for the grilled chicken instead.
As she cut into the chicken, she answered Oliver’s question. “Mostly the normal summer plans. My family owns a restaurant. My mom works there most of the week, so Addie and I will spend the day with the kids that live around there or just hang out in the restaurant. Sometimes, though, we get to go out on the boat with dad. My mom did mention something about having a guest this summer. That might be interesting.” She really had no idea how out of the ordinary it really would be. “What about you?”
0
Hannah
Aww, I would never do that
0
Hannah
0
5
Josh
April 06, 2008 9:05 PM
One of the many lessons of life by Josh
Well, praline certainly didn't sound terrible. But it was sort of hard to picture. He would have to see it to really understand it. "No, I'm not allergic to anything as far as I'm aware." Josh told her honestly. Of course, it had never come up before. Josh could very well be allergic to something but had thus far avoided whatever it was that would give him hives or close his throat. Actually, he should probably find out for sure if he actually was allergic to something just to be on the safe side.He assumed that her taking his hand meant that she accepted his proposal, but she let go and started rummaging around through her things. Maybe she was looking for an excuse? Maybe he was actually allergic to whatever it was that he had just ate and was now getting hives all over his face and Danae was too embarrassed to be seen on the dance floor with him! No, that couldn't be it because hives itched and he didn't need to scratch anything. What was up with his tongue? It felt really weird.
Josh rolled around his tongue again trying to get rid of the strange feeling when Danae handed him a mirror and told him to look at his mouth. Lifting an eyebrow at her, Josh brought the mirror up to his face and opened his mouth. Almost immediately his eyes widened in surprise before his brows furrowed in confusion. He stuck his tongue out to get a better look. The colors were almost hynotizing the way they changed from color to color. He stood there for a moment, watching his tongue and trying to figure out what had happened. He didn't think Matt would have pranked him, since Matt was more into dancing than pranking for the evening. But then...why was his tongue suddenly a rainbow?
"Huh?" Josh mumbled, looking out at Danae who had just posed a question to him. He looked at her curiously for a moment before it finally registered on what she had asked. "Oh yeah, let's go!" He gave her back her mirror and took her hand again before looping through the crowd and onto the dance floor.
0
Josh
One of the many lessons of life
0
Josh
0
5
Kiva
April 06, 2008 10:29 PM
Better keep a watchful eye on them just in case by Kiva
Kiva unintentionally made a face when Manfred mentioned pork being in the...whatever they were. She didn't eat meat of any kind. She wasn't necessarily a veagan as eggs weren't fertalized, so there was no actual chick and dairy cows needed to be milk as their utters would become sore and swollen. But, she just couldn't eat meat. Breeding an animal, fattening it up, only to kill it... that wasn't something she could believe in. She supposed it was due to the fact that she worked hand in hand with animals that had her thinking this way. "No thank you, Manfred." Kiva declined politely.She would have explained why she didn't want any, but some people seemed to become rather offended when she said she was a vegetarian. As though, she were judging them for not being one. Which, really wasn't the case. She knew everyone had their own beliefs in life, who was she to judge?
She watched Zack for a moment before nodding in agreement to Manfred. "You're right, he is a bit odd. I suppose that's part of his charm though. I worry about him though." Kiva admitted. She worried about a lot of students, some for obvious reasons like Irene and her father, others because they seemed so out of place in this world. "He's very intense for someone so young. I don't think he works on the same plan as everyone else. Do you know what I mean?" Kiva asked, glancing at Manfred before realizing she probably shouldn't have said anything about a student like that. "Sorry, I shouldn't have been so candid about him. I think it's just nerves." An embarrassed smile appeared on her features and she quickly turned her gaze to the salad that she had sitting in front of her. The Prairie Elves knew how much she liked her salads.
Popping a mandarin orange slice into her mouth while she looked back at the dish Manfred was talking about again. He seemed to really like it. "I'm sure it really is good, but I don't eat meat." She shrugged her slender shoulders helplessly at him. Though she had intended on keeping that last part out of the conversation, she figured it was the only excuse (at least, a truthful excuse) that she could make without putting the actual dish down. "A consequence of my job, I say."
0
Kiva
Better keep a watchful eye on them just in case
0
Kiva
0
5
Danae
April 07, 2008 6:45 PM
How many lessons are there? by Danae
Danae nodded. “I’m not allergic to anything either,” she offered. She couldn’t imagine how horrible it would be incredibly allergic to something to the point of having something like her throat closing up or having hives develop. Though, she supposed if she had to be allergic, she would prefer to have been allergic sooner rather than later. If it was later, then she might have to give up something that she rather liked. Of course, that was provided it was something like food or such. There was the possibility that she could be allergic to something like bees.But even if she were allergic to anything, she assumed it wouldn’t come with a color changing tongue. It was rather amusing to watch, as the rainbow continued in her date’s mouth and she waited patiently while Josh inspected what was going on, so much so that he missed her question by his initial huh, which was given right after. He recovered quickly, however, when he agreed to dance. Her mirror handed back, she had only enough time to place it on the table, before Josh’s hand was back in hers and she was being dragged onto the dance floor. She couldn’t help laughing, as he did so.
On the dance floor, Danae glanced nervously at the other couples dancing. It appeared quite different from the training that she had. Her focus shifted back to Josh and she watched his movements. They were rather fluid. A moment later, she began shuffling her feet in an attempt to mimic him. Soon, the rest of her body followed. As she continued, she realized that the lessons had helped. This dancing was looser, but the same rhythm was there.
She held up her hand above her hand to be twirled around, flaring out a little bit. She was enjoying herself immensely and she couldn’t help smiling and giggling all the more. Leaning in a bit, so that Josh would be able to hear her, she said, “I’m having a great time! How about you?”
0
Danae
How many lessons are there?
0
Danae
0
5