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**The Announcer** · 02-16-2021, 05:31 AM

OOC: this event is set on January 11, 2104 - the SAME day as the Dragon Reservation field trip.
All Creatures employees would have been ordered to fall back and return to the Ministry
for this mandatory event

With the start of the new year comes the annual Ministry orientation event, arranged by the Department Heads; an opportunity for you to mix with your colleagues, the Ministry's brand new or returning employees. Though this year's event comes a bit later than usual after an extended break while an elite skeleton crew tied off a few loose ends and finished some much needed refurbishments. The atmosphere of this year's event, a suave and sophisticated gala, is not unlike that of a grand opening. Your invitation required that you adhere to the formal and elegant dress code.

Upon entering the Atrium, you will find that a table has been set up with party favours: small bags and boxes of varying quality. All bags at least contain lapel pins and name tags with each employee's job title, name, and blood status in fancy silver font. After passing through security and into the party proper, each Ministry employee will be able to find their own personal party favour thanks to the accompanying name tags, which also display blood status. The observant among you may note that the party favours are of the most supreme quality when destined for a pureblood, and diminish in this regard as they become intended for half-bloods, those who consort with muggle-borns and muggles, and muggle-borns themselves. Be sure to put those name tags on.

Chairs and tables are spaced throughout the Atrium, itself bedecked with white, silver, and black décor, leaving spaces all around for mixing and mingling. In one corner of the room, an orchestra of unmanned and enchanted musical instruments provide constant but subtle chamber music. If you pay attention, you may notice that only works by magical composers will be heard all evening. Along one side of the room, buffet tables hold a vast array of canapés and other hors d'oeuvres, and a range of beverages.

In spite of the opulence of the event, one significant change is likely to command your attention more than the rest. In the centre of the Atrium, where the Fountain of Magic Brethren once stood, a new towering marble structure now dominates the space. The Fountain for the Greater Good consists of a colossal levitating hand above a rippling pool of water, wielding a wand, and topped with Gubraithian Fire that nearly licks the ceiling. At its base, the Sign of the Deathly Hallows is engraved above the immortal words of Gellert Grindelwald: For the Greater Good.

Perhaps now it's starting to seem all too clear that the Ministry of Magic is not only ushering in a new year, but a new dawn.

aRogueOne · 02-20-2021, 08:38 PM

Delyth usually made an extra effort for anything official and would often sport something fancy but it felt odd that this year, they were actually asked to show up in formal wear. Never mind. She didn’t need to be asked twice. When did she ever actually go anywhere that required her to dress remotely fancy other than work events? Well, that was that one event. The speed dating one but that one wasn’t exactly what she would have called a success. Still, she did what she was told so tonight, she had picked out a particularly plain but somewhat classy black, strappy dress which was tastefully concealed by her long, black coat, if she did say so herself.

Slipping in quietly, the curly-haired blonde wandered over to the party favours and searched for her, an uneasy feeling slowly washing over her as she noted the details on the front of hers.

Quote:

Hogwarts Liaison
Delyth Dominique
Half-Blood

Reluctantly, she attached her nametag and set about to find a friend or at least a drink and a table that she could settle herself at. If she had to be here, she’d at least try to enjoy herself. With a smile on her lips, she moved in and out of people, smiling and politely greeting most of them as she manoeuvred her way through towards the tables and chairs that had been spaced out in the Atrium and, after leaving her party favours and her coat on a chair, she slipped away in search of that drink, her hips moving to the sound of the music as she did so.

Even despite the obvious, rather overly done décor, Delyth did her best not to let herself look anything less than her usual confident self. Who was she kidding, she wasn’t usually confident. Not in the least bit but at times like these, the show was all she had and if her acting wasn’t up to scratch, she knew she was in for a rough night so instead, she chose to ignore the grandiose, marble structure that towered over her and instead, made her way to one side where the buffet table lay. Grabbing a flute glass full of bubbly, she surveyed the scene curiously. There seemed to by a surprisingly large amount of people at the buffet table, and yet, she found no need to actually mingle with them, at least, not at first. Being slightly late did apparently have its perks.

MadAlice · 02-20-2021, 10:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Helios Sunrider

Turning away from that first table, Nero was all smiles and charm as he guided Jane towards the refreshments. They might need them on a night like this. Handing the woman the first glass of bubbly, he took a second one as his blue eyes were taking in the sight of the fountain. Though he remained smiling, he found himself drawn towards the ominous fountain, his mind falling back through the years. As he took a step away from the refreshments, Nero leaned back, and grabbed the rest of the bottle. You never know.

Pouring more champagne into the glasses of random people that he passed by, along with giving empty pleasantries, Nero made his way to the marble structure at the center of the atrium.

"I..I've seen this all before.." The world was white noise around him. That symbol. Those words. What year was this?

Jane smiled as she took in Dr. Nykto's appearance--to say his suit was classic would be an overstatement, but Jane, too, appreciated a well-loved, well-worn garment, so she quite understood. And it was a very fine suit. She took the glass of champagne he handed her and took a sip, thinking that what she could really use was a stiff Firewhiskey. But this was not the place for that--she needed to keep her wits about her.

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie

While absent at the previous beginning of the year festivities, Airey Flamsteed was in attendance this time. Physically, at least. His tall and gangly figure stood nearly stationary beside the new fountain as instructed to do so. Eyes somewhat glassed over and jaw set, accenting his sharp cheekbones, the Mysteries department head observed the gathering partygoers. Hands clasped behind his back, his fingers twitched involuntarily and for the briefest of moments his mouth joined and twisted into a grimace of sorts. It lingered for a moment, his eyes frantically looking around the Atrium, but soon his features returned to a stoic and controlled expression.

She followed him toward the center of the atrium, and as they approached the fountain, she stepped closer to him and whispered in his ear, "Take a look at our head of the Dept. of Mysteries, and see if you don't think I was right." She pulled back and gave a professional smile to Airey Flamsteed as they approached the new fountain.

Felixir · 02-20-2021, 11:33 PM

Suits and ties and all this formal stuff had never been Kaiser's thing. He'd had the same issue adjusting to the school and uniform situation to some extent, and again when he'd joined the ministry and actually had to look the part, but that was never this uncomfortable, never made him feel quite so out of place. Merlin only knew how he'd felt about this last year, but something told him he might not have cared at all. Tonight, though, Kaiser was tugging irritably at the strangling shirt collar and tie. Even this was on the ~~cheaper~~ simpler side of things; he couldn't even begin to imagine how restrictive those three-piece suits must be.

Obviously, his discomfort was solely limited to fashion, and nothing at all to do with his growing ~~anxiety~~ nerves about all things related to the Ministry of Magic. Obviously.

"Why can't these things ever have a comfortable dress code?" he complained quietly to Candela, though he knew she loved this kind of thing, the fashion stuff, and that he really would have hated to deprive her of the opportunity to go to town with it. They were still stood in front of the party favours, and Kaiser was scanning the name tags, looking for his own and struggling to find it. So many to look through through, maybe that was why, and his mind was admittedly on other things, like wanting to get properly into the party and have eyes on Mr Hollingberry. He was about to give up and just continue on without the party favour, but at the last second his eyes fell on one they'd passed over maybe a dozen times already, without really seeing it. He let out a weird half-strangled gasping noise which had nothing (almost nothing) to do with the collar and tie situation.

In a second, Kaiser had snatched up the party favour and stared in horror at the name tag attached - Personal Assistant to the Minister for Magic, Ministry Scribe, Nikolai Kaiser, Pureblood. No... no way. He... Wand... wand, he needed his wand. He unhooked his arm from Candi's and fumbled up his sleeve for it. The fact that his name tag declared Kaiser, for reasons unknown, a pureblood, had not yet registered. He'd not even looked at that line yet. This mild state of agitation was regarding another matter entirely.

Waddles · 02-20-2021, 11:37 PM

SPOILER!!: Darcey & Alexander

Quote:

Originally Posted by iekenstein

Darcey hardly needed an excuse to wear fancy dress, she welcomed any excuse to dress up for the evening. And what better place to wear such a beautiful dress to than some Ministry event where everyone got to know what kind of blood traitor you were?! Darcey Fontaine, LLM, Pureblood, bloodtraitor, was in the house! It was almost like a family reunion where everyone was upset with her for having a child with a muggle. They would have loved the new set up at the ministry.

Besides, how often did she get to see her boyfriend all dressed up? She linked arms with him and grinned, already having a blast seeing him so far out of his comfort zone. "Don't you just love what they've done with the place?" Darcey rolled her eyes, having power clearly didn't mean having style. But to each their own.
She straightened out her expression before addressing the woman (Peggy) who had joined them, a bright smile already in place. "Good evening." A Department Head, she noted. It didn't hurt to know the important people...in this climate. "Quite the party you've organised."

Quote:

Originally Posted by oh its Erik ok

Well, Alexander could not help but snort laughter at that. Humor was the only thing he had left after seeing that statue "You think they overdid it or could have gone even more out there in design" He murmurs to Darcey. Though with the statue it's hard to top what they did. Guess it would have been some extremely good luck to not have to have a conservation with anyone, not in DERP. Would have been nice not that he is complaining about it or anything. He can make small talk since as Darcey pointed out it was a Department Head(Peggy). Ah, not one he has rarely talked to but that was mostly his fault since he was holed up in his office or home or dealing with oceanologists

"Evening, quite the party indeed. How have you been?"

Maybe he should have lead Darcey to anyone in DERP first but anyway not the time to think about stuff like that and she(Peggy) seems nice enough.

Peggy was really trying to remain pleasant and professional. Ostentatious though the new additions to the atrium and the rest of the Ministry were, it was the implications that bother her more than the extravagant spending. She noticed the discomfort of these two, but was not about to comment on it. Let everyone have their own private discomfort, she supposed.

"Yes, quite a lot of effort has been put into tonight," she said simply. She was surprised at the how have you been comment, it was a little familiar, but no matter. She decided to focus on the positive and gestured to her name tag, hoping to draw attention to her promotion. "It's been a busy few weeks, coming up to speed after Victoria stepped down. I hope you and your families have been well?" She hoped the couple did not think she was prying into their family life or, Merlin forbid, their blood status, but small talk was required. She was doing her best here.

She caught sight of her predecessor herself, standing near the Minister and a few other women. It would be nice to chat with her later, if the evening permitted, she supposed. Oh! And there was one of her division managers, Milo. Peggy definitely intended to speak with him about some business in the Gobstones League. If work talk were permitted at a fancy part such as this. She definitely preferred work talk to small talk, but not everyone did.

Krel Ansell · 02-21-2021, 12:19 AM

Text Cut: Penelope

Right, a name. That would be helpful wouldn’t it? ”Ah-dam Gerulf,” he offered up with a shy smile although his line of sight was clearly a bit off from where Penelope stood. If Zita were here she just would have done it for him. No need to ask for help. That’s what he liked about her. She didn’t make him ask. Well, she usually didn’t make him ask. ”Department uff Meinsteries,” he added, just in case she needed the information to locate his, well, whatever it was they were supposed to collect. He was still a little unsure of that as Security merely told him to name sure he retrieved his name tag.

Still there were benefits to being mostly blind. One of them being that he hadn’t really been able to see many of the changes around here. The banners were lost on him, but he had noticed that the fountains were being awfully quiet and did he smell…sulfer? Smoke? He wasn’t entirely sure what that smell was but it implied fire of some sort. He turned in the direction of where the fountains had always stood and noticed a less dark spot in the distance where they should have been.

Text Cut: Work Wife!

”Laurel!” Adam said perhaps a little to brightly. If Zita were here she likely would have given Laurel the stink-eye for the rest of the evening. ”Ja, zat sounds lofely,” he said, but then realizing Laurel had only brought three glasses, Adam offered his to Penelope as Laurel spoke to Airey about the mess in the prophecy room. He hadn’t really been much help, so after collecting the bigger piece of the rock golem and hauling them off to a storage closet for later inspection, he had returned and mostly kept watch – which was kind of funny if you thought about thought about it. ”Are you alone tonight? How are ze kinder (children)?”

”Zey are. Zita picked zem out. Do you like zem?” He asked as he fiddled with them. And then he relized he hadn’t introduced the lady who was helping him find his…whatever was at the table. ”Oh… Oh! Forgife me...Laurel zis iss...” long pause. ”I do nicht know your name,” he finished awkwardly. But then the lady was addressing Airey. Was she a new employee on Level 9? He pushed his glasses back up his face. A newly developed nervous tick perhaps? Or was he just not used to the knew glasses? No, she said professor. It had taken Adam a while to understand that Airey had once taught in a school.

~~~*~~~

Text Cut: Aurora, and Nero

”Well it suites you nicely. Brings out the color in your eyes,” he said pleasantly and he reached for a glass of something alcoholic, champagne he thought. He didn’t even care what it was. Then he snacked up one sparkling cider for Sachin and handed it over. His was mostly gone by the time that Dr. Nykto passed by and suddenly was refilling it. He glanced at the glass, then after the man who honestly just seemed to be busy spreading round the some cheer. He might have been suspicious had he not immediately joined Ms. Howard. He raised a glass in their direction in acknowledgement and then took a sip. ”And how are you finding the evening? Anything we should make sure to try?” he asked looking over the food table although he wasn’t at all in the mood to eat. Would Sachin be surprised? Of course not, but he’d still likely be putting food on a plate and forcing Conley to eat in a bit.

Cassirin · 02-21-2021, 01:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aRogueOne

Delyth usually made an extra effort for anything official and would often sport something fancy but it felt odd that this year, they were actually asked to show up in formal wear. Never mind. She didn’t need to be asked twice. When did she ever actually go anywhere that required her to dress remotely fancy other than work events? Well, that was that one event. The speed dating one but that one wasn’t exactly what she would have called a success. Still, she did what she was told so tonight, she had picked out a particularly plain but somewhat classy black, strappy dress which was tastefully concealed by her long, black coat, if she did say so herself.

Slipping in quietly, the curly-haired blonde wandered over to the party favours and searched for her, an uneasy feeling slowly washing over her as she noted the details on the front of hers.

Reluctantly, she attached her nametag and set about to find a friend or at least a drink and a table that she could settle herself at. If she had to be here, she’d at least try to enjoy herself. With a smile on her lips, she moved in and out of people, smiling and politely greeting most of them as she manoeuvred her way through towards the tables and chairs that had been spaced out in the Atrium and, after leaving her party favours and her coat on a chair, she slipped away in search of that drink, her hips moving to the sound of the music as she did so.

Even despite the obvious, rather overly done décor, Delyth did her best not to let herself look anything less than her usual confident self. Who was she kidding, she wasn’t usually confident. Not in the least bit but at times like these, the show was all she had and if her acting wasn’t up to scratch, she knew she was in for a rough night so instead, she chose to ignore the grandiose, marble structure that towered over her and instead, made her way to one side where the buffet table lay. Grabbing a flute glass full of bubbly, she surveyed the scene curiously. There seemed to by a surprisingly large amount of people at the buffet table, and yet, she found no need to actually mingle with them, at least, not at first. Being slightly late did apparently have its perks.

Genevieve James did NOT love a good party, but she understood when the appropriate political move required her to show up. Actually, the health and well being of her family required her to show up, but she still understood the politics of working in a Ministry position. Even without a massive takeover, it would be a good idea to show up and play nice with the bossy folks.

She'd opted for formal wear in the guise of a tuxedo tailored to her small figure, the pants slim fitting and tapered to heels just tall enough to look fancy but short enough to run if necessary. Running in heels was one of her most impressive accomplishments, thanks. Glancing over the room, Vivi watched for her immediate boss, or her boss's boss, or even anyone in her department. The room was teeming with people, though, and most of them were just the vaguely familiar types from other departments.

Nearby, a woman in a black gown fiddled with a glass. She gave the impression of ease, but those busy fingers were just enough of a tick to suggest that perhaps Vivi wasn't the only one feeling a tickle on the back of her neck. So they could be paranoid together. "Hi. Delyth? How exactly does one go about being a liaison to Hogwarts these days? Sounds like a pretty unsatisfying job." Was that rude? She didn't mean to be rude... "Genevieve James. Senior Auror."

Uncle Moose · 02-21-2021, 03:06 AM

Sure this whole year felt way off, but the one constant that kept it going for the Blonde bearded man was his new wife, and their triplets at home being babysat by his Grandmother.

His mind was not on that thought for very long. At present it was in the present. His Arm wrapped around Arabella's as they entered the gala. At first glance everything about it seemed spectacular. His picked up his lapel, and his name tag. He looked at his name. Then frowned. He rubbed his thumb over it then put it on his suit jacket then the lapel pin just above it. It didn't disappoint him. It was just shocking that after all this time such a thing would have to be brought up.
Who could he see about such a transgression?

Oh also the more he looked around the gala the more apparent it became to him that the Ministry was headed down a dark path. The amount of reading one does into their own family history and research done tends to also lead into reading much more into Magical History as well. Something He would have never down during his time at Hogwarts. This stuff started wars. His grip on Arabella tightened a bit out of instinct to be a bit more protective of her.

He looked around for some familiar faces. There was Mrs. Culloden in that crowd with the Minister and many others. Perhaps he was the one he had to confront about his nametag? He also spotted some of his co-workers from his department as well and gave them each a nod (Milo and Javier). Small talk can ensue shortly between the three of them if they so chose. He was also looking for his New Department Head. He wanted to properly introduce himself after all.

Watson · 02-21-2021, 03:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncle Moose

Sure this whole year felt way off, but the one constant that kept it going for the Blonde bearded man was his new wife, and their triplets at home being babysat by his Grandmother.

His mind was not on that thought for very long. At present it was in the present. His Arm wrapped around Arabella's as they entered the gala. At first glance everything about it seemed spectacular. His picked up his lapel, and his name tag. He looked at his name. Then frowned. He rubbed his thumb over it then put it on his suit jacket then the lapel pin just above it. It didn't disappoint him. It was just shocking that after all this time such a thing would have to be brought up.
Who could he see about such a transgression?

Oh also the more he looked around the gala the more apparent it became to him that the Ministry was headed down a dark path. The amount of reading one does into their own family history and research done tends to also lead into reading much more into Magical History as well. Something He would have never down during his time at Hogwarts. This stuff started wars. His grip on Arabella tightened a bit out of instinct to be a bit more protective of her.

He looked around for some familiar faces. There was Mrs. Culloden in that crowd with the Minister and many others. Perhaps he was the one he had to confront about his nametag? He also spotted some of his co-workers from his department as well and gave them each a nod (Milo and Javier). Small talk can ensue shortly between the three of them if they so chose. He was also looking for his New Department Head. He wanted to properly introduce himself after all.

When Aegis had mentioned the ball, Arabella had been a mixture of emotions. The first had been dread. After having the triplets, she had struggled with working off the baby fat and hadn’t been able to get back to her toned body. However, she had started adjusting to the new curves, feeling a little more content with her body image as the weeks went on after the triplet’s birth. Besides her husband only had to reassure her a hundred thousand times that she was still his goddess. The second emotion, she found herself feeling was excitement. It had been a while since the last formal event and she had been dying to get out of the house and get all dolled up. Too often, she found herself in more practical yoga pants and a hoodie which was something she swore that she’d never wear prior to the pregnancy. So she took the opportunity to get all dolled up in a beautiful and sparkly look. If this was her one night off Mum duty, she was going to look flawless. The third feeling was anxiety. Even though their children’s minder was most trusted, she felt terrified without having the triplets here with them. It was so strange to not have one or two sitting on her hip.

After all that’s what the Morgenstern-Dane’s do.

She felt her husband’s grip tighten slightly and she cast him a quizzical look when he eyed his name tag. “Dont tell me they put Aegis Morgenstern on there, darling,” she teased before picking up her own nametag which read Arabella Dane. She glanced around the room, trying to spot her father or her brother’s wife. However, neither were in site. She had doubted her father would have made it. The family business was rather preoccupying these days.

“Have I told you how handsome you look? We really ought to dress up more often at home... I think the children would like it.” Though she’d like it more. It could be a sort of date night or something if that nature! She leaned into her husband a little. “Do you see your new department head?”

LilFox06 · 02-21-2021, 04:16 AM

Bennett wandered around, taking in all the new faces. He wasn't particularly social, but even with that, there were tons of new faces. Moreso than usual. He figured that it was probably due to the new regime. The name tag reminded him of that.

He looked around and spotted a familiar face. He offered her a little wave. She at least seemed to be socializing well enough. He, on the other hand, might just need a drink to hold to not look so out of place.

aRogueOne · 02-21-2021, 01:28 PM

SPOILER!!:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Felixir

Suits and ties and all this formal stuff had never been Kaiser's thing. He'd had the same issue adjusting to the school and uniform situation to some extent, and again when he'd joined the ministry and actually had to look the part, but that was never this uncomfortable, never made him feel quite so out of place. Merlin only knew how he'd felt about this last year, but something told him he might not have cared at all. Tonight, though, Kaiser was tugging irritably at the strangling shirt collar and tie. Even this was on the ~~cheaper~~ simpler side of things; he couldn't even begin to imagine how restrictive those three-piece suits must be.

Obviously, his discomfort was solely limited to fashion, and nothing at all to do with his growing ~~anxiety~~ nerves about all things related to the Ministry of Magic. Obviously.

"Why can't these things ever have a comfortable dress code?" he complained quietly to Candela, though he knew she loved this kind of thing, the fashion stuff, and that he really would have hated to deprive her of the opportunity to go to town with it. They were still stood in front of the party favours, and Kaiser was scanning the name tags, looking for his own and struggling to find it. So many to look through through, maybe that was why, and his mind was admittedly on other things, like wanting to get properly into the party and have eyes on Mr Hollingberry. He was about to give up and just continue on without the party favour, but at the last second his eyes fell on one they'd passed over maybe a dozen times already, without really seeing it. He let out a weird half-strangled gasping noise which had nothing (almost nothing) to do with the collar and tie situation.

In a second, Kaiser had snatched up the party favour and stared in horror at the name tag attached - Personal Assistant to the Minister for Magic, Ministry Scribe, Nikolai Kaiser, Pureblood. No... no way. He... Wand... wand, he needed his wand. He unhooked his arm from Candi's and fumbled up his sleeve for it. The fact that his name tag declared Kaiser, for reasons unknown, a pureblood, had not yet registered. He'd not even looked at that line yet. This mild state of agitation was regarding another matter entirely.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

Genevieve James did NOT love a good party, but she understood when the appropriate political move required her to show up. Actually, the health and well being of her family required her to show up, but she still understood the politics of working in a Ministry position. Even without a massive takeover, it would be a good idea to show up and play nice with the bossy folks.

She'd opted for formal wear in the guise of a tuxedo tailored to her small figure, the pants slim fitting and tapered to heels just tall enough to look fancy but short enough to run if necessary. Running in heels was one of her most impressive accomplishments, thanks. Glancing over the room, Vivi watched for her immediate boss, or her boss's boss, or even anyone in her department. The room was teeming with people, though, and most of them were just the vaguely familiar types from other departments.

Nearby, a woman in a black gown fiddled with a glass. She gave the impression of ease, but those busy fingers were just enough of a tick to suggest that perhaps Vivi wasn't the only one feeling a tickle on the back of her neck. So they could be paranoid together. "Hi. Delyth? How exactly does one go about being a liaison to Hogwarts these days? Sounds like a pretty unsatisfying job." Was that rude? She didn't mean to be rude... "Genevieve James. Senior Auror."

The first flute of bubbly went down a little too easy but that was to be expected given the current situation and the label that seemed to be weight rather heavily on her. Second glass in hand, she surveyed the scene in front of her, her eyes lingering only for the briefest of moments as she did so but that was enough to gleam what she needed to.

Indeed, first they moved from the nametag station where one of her fellow level one employees in the Minister’s Office seemed to take issue with the nametag he was given (Kaiser). Although she couldn’t exactly blame him, now was not the right time to bring attention to yourself and the nametag. But that was not her problem. From the little interaction they may have had on level one, she knew him not to be stupid or reckless so instead, her eyes moved on to some of the people and conversations around her.

That was when she was approached by a woman in a particularly smart tuxedo. Flashing her bright white smile, she merely laughs before waving a hand in the air as if being a liaison to Hogwarts was something of a simple task. “Unsatisfying? No. I wouldn’t say that” she replied, unsure exactly the woman was implying. Was she out to entrap her or something? Get her to talk ill about her role and her boss so that she was replaced by someone else? The feeling of unease that had been slowly spreading since she had arrived had now all but taken over. “Sure it’s a little…different than when I started but times change”, she continued, doing her utmost to sound as if the changes that were being made weren’t beyond outrageous. “Not all of us can be Aurors, saving the day and tracking down all those pesky dark wizards now, can we?” her smile now fixed now as her eyes wandered to the new fountain before back to Genevieve.

Cassirin · 02-21-2021, 03:17 PM

SPOILER!!: aRogueOne

That was the problem with this new regime... made everyone so paranoid. Maybe paranoia was healthy in this environment, since you really didn't know where people's alliances felt. This woman, for example, seemed to be suggesting that nothing in her job had changed. No one could reach Hogwarts, or at least parents and children weren't communicating, but this woman was still in touch?

That suggested she was allowed to communicate with Hogwarts... kind of amazing, but definitely suspicious.

"I assumed you were dealing with the same communication issues that parents of students are dealing with, but how marvelous that you're still able to get through." Vivi studied her own glass before wondering if it was even safe to eat the food or drink the beverages. See? Paranoia. "I have three there myself, and I haven't heard from them in months. It makes a mother... uncomfortable." Livid, panicky, frustrated, furious... those were better words for how it made her feel. "But as for being an Auror, I can assure you that it's 90% paperwork. Not as interesting as we like people to think, but no one signs up if they know how much time you spend at a desk."

aRogueOne · 02-21-2021, 04:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cassirin

That was the problem with this new regime... made everyone so paranoid. Maybe paranoia was healthy in this environment, since you really didn't know where people's alliances felt. This woman, for example, seemed to be suggesting that nothing in her job had changed. No one could reach Hogwarts, or at least parents and children weren't communicating, but this woman was still in touch?

That suggested she was allowed to communicate with Hogwarts... kind of amazing, but definitely suspicious.

"I assumed you were dealing with the same communication issues that parents of students are dealing with, but how marvelous that you're still able to get through." Vivi studied her own glass before wondering if it was even safe to eat the food or drink the beverages. See? Paranoia. "I have three there myself, and I haven't heard from them in months. It makes a mother... uncomfortable." Livid, panicky, frustrated, furious... those were better words for how it made her feel. "But as for being an Auror, I can assure you that it's 90% paperwork. Not as interesting as we like people to think, but no one signs up if they know how much time you spend at a desk."

“As I said, some things have changed, the communication issues with Hogwarts or lack of being one of them. I may be the Hogwarts liaison but I don’t spend my time flitting back and forth between the Ministry and the school. That’s done by people higher up than me.”. Why did she suddenly feel under pressure all of a sudden? Like she was being grilled? She was just…a simple liaison. Someone who kept track of budgets and all of the boring stuff that went on behind the scenes. Although, with the number of letters and howlers she’d been receiving from anxious parents, it was a wonder that she’d been able to do half of what her job entailed although in truth, she couldn’t blame them for it. If she’d had a child at Hogwarts, she’d try any and everyway to make sure that they were okay.

Delyth did her best to listen to Genevieve with her smile in place but at the mention of her children, it faltered and the mask that she’d been doing her best to hold up slipped, being replaced by how she really felt. Upset. Hurt. “Look…I…”, hesitating for a moment before she continued, “I wish I could talk to the students there. To check up on them but I can’t. No one can as far as I know”.

As for the 90% paper work, that she could do because she certainly wasn’t suited to the latter. Taking another sip, she replied “I mean there’s nothing wrong with a little desk work. Someone has to do it”, her voice a little more steady now as she finished off her second drink of the night. “Being an auror was never on the cards for me though. Not really” although her OWL and NEWT results would somewhat contradict that statement. Then again, she imagined that being one took a lot more than book smarts.

kayquilz · 02-21-2021, 10:01 PM

Scottie had his lapel pin already attached to his collar, and his name tag soon followed.

Quote:

Scott Ferguson
Security Officer
Pureblood

He made no sign of discomfort or concern at the name tags; it didn't surprise him. He merely ran a hand through his hair and approached the MLE head, Mr. Goldy himself. He no longer felt nervous around Bain Goldwasser - he felt prepared. Excited even. He hadn't brought a date - who had time for dating in these times?! - and merely nodded at all standing near Goldy. Dante and Ms. Alphonsine. "Good evening. I am a little late, but I hope I have not missed much, sir," he said mostly to his boss. His eyes glowed with eagerness at the older gentleman. "I love the name tags. How helpful during these times..." his voice trailed off as he glanced around. "I don't think we've met officially, I'm Scott Ferguson. Security officer and very proud of my place of work." He smiled in a friendly manner at both Dante and Alphonsine.

His eyes trailed off at the.......replacement fountain, and he nodded a bit at it. Nice addition.....nice.

Very nice.

Refreshments? Here? Scottie wanted to eat or drink nothing. His stomach felt like lead.

TakemetotheBurrow · 02-21-2021, 10:14 PM

SPOILER!!: Gabriel, Joseph, Brody

Quote:

Originally Posted by Waddles

Was Gabriel late? He thought he might be, so he was definitely a bit frazzled when he arrived at the gala. He stopped very short when he saw...what. What had happened to the Fountain of Magical Brethren? What were these banners? Being a YATI, he wasn't at the Ministry every single day, so he wondered how long this had all been here.

Maybe this was why his sister hadn't wanted to come as his plus one.

Taking a deep breath, he sought out his name tag and party favour. He was pureblood, so that meant he got extra goodies?! That was neat. It didn't seem quite fair, given he was ...not very accomplished, himself, but he wasn't going to argue if they wanted to give him gifts just for having the right last name. He pinned the pin on and the name tag, too, then looked around again.

There. The buffet.

Trying not to walk too quickly toward the food, Gabriel meandered his way towards the hors d'oeuvres, stopping to smile and nod at folks occasionally on his way. When he f i n a l l y arrived at the food, however, he wasted no time in helping himself. It wasn't until after he'd stuffed a stuffed mushroom into his mouth that he realized there was a couple of other people (Joseph and Mariana) standing there. "MMHow's'it going?" he asked, slightly muffled by the mushroom he was trying to chew. He did at least have the sense to cover his mouth with his hand when he spoke.

Oh no, was that lady the same lady he'd met by the buffet last year?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dumblydor

"They certainly have. That new fountain over there looks... interesting.", Joseph agreed, pointing at the slightly avant-garde fountain. He couldn't help but gulp as he looked over at the fountain one more time. The threatening atmosphere of the event just wouldn't leave. He supposed and even hoped that the foreboding nature would dwindle down as more people arrived, but that certainly wasn't the case. If anything, the additional arrivals added to the thick tension. "Joseph.", he said, in return for the woman's introduction. After a few moments, he pointed at his name tag and added, "As you can see." He held out a hand for the woman to shake.

Joseph watched as another man walked over towards himself and the woman. As the stranger stuffed his mouth with stuffed mushrooms, Joseph could feel his stomach rumbling. Even though he was absolutely starving at this point, he simply couldn't muster up the appetite to eat as much as the man. "Good... I suppose.", he answered and grabbed a single mushroom. He chewed on it for a long time without swallowing, which was mainly because it tasted funny, which he put down to his bad appetite and the mood of the gala. "I'm Joseph.", he introduced, holding out a hand. He kept forgetting about the name tags.

Yet another man walked over towards himself and the buffet table. Joseph seemed oddly popular tonight. "I suppose the mini sandwiches look nice.", he replied to the man's question. Speaking of the sandwiches, Joseph grabbed one and bit into it. His appetite seemed to have returned. The refreshing taste of cucumber had seemingly returned it. he noticed that the man hadn't looked up at him as he asked for recommendations. 'Bit rude.', he thought, but he supposed that was just something to do with how Joseph had been brought up in an immensely posh household and had to attend etiquette classes for 7 years. "I'm Joseph.", he introduced, and held out a hand. The name tags had slipped his mind once again.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Waddles

Gabriel was unphased by the "crowd" that quickly gathered at the buffet. He nodded politely at the other young fellow who joined them, then finished eating his stuffed mushrooms so he could reply to the other man...Joseph, he said his name was. "Gabriel," he replied, shaking the man's hand. "Not a mushroom fan, I see." He noticed that Joseph seemed more interested in the fancy sandwiches instead. Also noticed, thanks to the nametags which spared them some boring small talk, that the man worked in the minister's office.

Gabriel really didn't know what went happened there.

"What a press secretary do?" he asked, trying to change the subject from the weird new fountain with the fire atop. Was it a stupid question that he would have figured out the answer to, if he'd given it thirty seconds of thought? Probably... He wiped his hands on a napkin, then surveyed the table so he didn't have to keep making eye contact.

Following Joseph's gaze towards the fountain, Mariana frowned slightly. "Yes, that's new." And while it was impressive, the botanist preferred the one that used to stand in its place. She shrugged slightly, deciding not to dwell on it too much. Something told her the fountain wasn't the only change here that she was going to disagree with. Slipping her hand into the man's, she gave him a firm shake. "It's nice to meet you."

...She couldn't help but smile as they were joined by another man, one she recognized from last year's gathering and who seemed unbothered by polite social conventions like not talking with one's mouth full. She could hardly blame him, the food was calling to her, too. "It's going. I remember you. I believe we talked a bit last time we were here." She tapped her name tag. "Mariana."

And as for the question the next man to join them had asked, Mariana had to agree with Joe. "Those mini-sandwiches do look good. Don't mind if I do." She plucked up one for herself and bit right in.

SPOILER!!: Nat!

"No," Em replied quietly, her focus on those around them. There were quite a few new faces to observe and she couldn't quite shake the uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. She hadn't decided if one had anything to do with the other, not yet. Taking Nat's arm, she glanced at her friend. "This is all new. I don't really love the vibe." She nudged her best gently, managing a reassuring smile. "But look, if this is awful, we'll just head home early. Sweatpants and slippers suit me just as nicely as fancy dresses do." And there was more than enough food here that perhaps making a little to-go plate would go unnoticed.

Navigating them through the crowd, the auror stopped by the beverages and procured herself something light and bubbly.

SilverTiger · 02-21-2021, 11:09 PM

SPOILER!!: quotes here, Aegis and Arabella

Quote:

Originally Posted by Uncle Moose

Sure this whole year felt way off, but the one constant that kept it going for the Blonde bearded man was his new wife, and their triplets at home being babysat by his Grandmother.

His mind was not on that thought for very long. At present it was in the present. His Arm wrapped around Arabella's as they entered the gala. At first glance everything about it seemed spectacular. His picked up his lapel, and his name tag. He looked at his name. Then frowned. He rubbed his thumb over it then put it on his suit jacket then the lapel pin just above it. It didn't disappoint him. It was just shocking that after all this time such a thing would have to be brought up.
Who could he see about such a transgression?

Oh also the more he looked around the gala the more apparent it became to him that the Ministry was headed down a dark path. The amount of reading one does into their own family history and research done tends to also lead into reading much more into Magical History as well. Something He would have never down during his time at Hogwarts. This stuff started wars. His grip on Arabella tightened a bit out of instinct to be a bit more protective of her.

He looked around for some familiar faces. There was Mrs. Culloden in that crowd with the Minister and many others. Perhaps he was the one he had to confront about his nametag? He also spotted some of his co-workers from his department as well and gave them each a nod (Milo and Javier). Small talk can ensue shortly between the three of them if they so chose. He was also looking for his New Department Head. He wanted to properly introduce himself after all.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Watson

When Aegis had mentioned the ball, Arabella had been a mixture of emotions. The first had been dread. After having the triplets, she had struggled with working off the baby fat and hadn’t been able to get back to her toned body. However, she had started adjusting to the new curves, feeling a little more content with her body image as the weeks went on after the triplet’s birth. Besides her husband only had to reassure her a hundred thousand times that she was still his goddess. The second emotion, she found herself feeling was excitement. It had been a while since the last formal event and she had been dying to get out of the house and get all dolled up. Too often, she found herself in more practical yoga pants and a hoodie which was something she swore that she’d never wear prior to the pregnancy. So she took the opportunity to get all dolled up in a beautiful and sparkly look. If this was her one night off Mum duty, she was going to look flawless. The third feeling was anxiety. Even though their children’s minder was most trusted, she felt terrified without having the triplets here with them. It was so strange to not have one or two sitting on her hip.

After all that’s what the Morgenstern-Dane’s do.

She felt her husband’s grip tighten slightly and she cast him a quizzical look when he eyed his name tag. “Dont tell me they put Aegis Morgenstern on there, darling,” she teased before picking up her own nametag which read Arabella Dane. She glanced around the room, trying to spot her father or her brother’s wife. However, neither were in site. She had doubted her father would have made it. The family business was rather preoccupying these days.

“Have I told you how handsome you look? We really ought to dress up more often at home... I think the children would like it.” Though she’d like it more. It could be a sort of date night or something if that nature! She leaned into her husband a little. “Do you see your new department head?”

Things seemed to be going as well as they could be near where she had planted herself. At least, the girl Adam had approached seemed to have been willing to help, not to mention the arrival of Laurel to make things that much more smooth. Aside from the appearance of her former professor and current boss, which had nearly elicited a question as to if Airey was particularly okay. Not that Dylan was entirely certain the answer she would have gotten had she asked would have been the truth. She was honestly beginning to doubt that she’d get the truth from any of the department heads at this point, given the assumption that they all had been privy to the “enhancements” made to the Atrium. She knew her history books much too well to believe the sight of Grindelwald’s portrait hanging on the walls extolled any sort of positive influence.

As such, she’d been grateful as her gaze had landed on familiar faces. Familiar faces that weren’t only familiar due to work. Namely Arabella and her sister-in-law’s husband, and she had found herself walking over to the duo almost without thinking. “You two look stunning,” she said as a manner of greeting, accompanying it with a brief smile. Bringing up exactly everything that seemed off about this whole situation hardly seemed like a good starting of point.

Zoe · 02-21-2021, 11:19 PM

The Squib was something else, wasn't she? Several thoughts ran through his mind as he shook her hand. He did manage a smile in her direction and nodded his head in agreement. "Indeed." And that was that, especially now with their little group growing. It was becoming quite the crowd, which he, no matter how good of a mood he was in, didn't particularly care for. Nevertheless, the man at the very least was finding ways to entertain himself. Alphonsine not giving the Squib the light of day, Sian making comments about the woman's skin at least looking presentable -- it made this interaction bearable.

Now, what did he think of the décor? Well, Dante certainly had thoughts about it. The new tapestries identification on the badges was certainly a nice touch, a much-needed touch. But was he going to go into great detail to Miss Pembrooke about it? No. Instead he just smiled that charming smile of his and kept his response simple, though left enough room for interpretation. "It's quite a sophisticated and refined aesthetic."

Hearing his name coming from behind him, the Head Obliviator turned around to face the man who had addressed him. It was surprising being sought after by the head of Law Enforcement, a man whom he had heard plenty about through the grapevine. Even so, he remained quite calm for he had nothing to fear and accepted the man's hand, the feel of it something he did notice. How ... interesting.

Ever so slightly his head tilted to the side. Bain wanted to talk to him about a job opportunity? A question began to form in his mind, but his thoughts remained incomplete as another person joined the group. His gaze then turned to the man who introduced himself as Scott Ferguson. The status on his nametag was the first thing he cared to look at. A Pure-blood as a mere Security Officer? What a pity.

"Dante Zabini, Head Obliviator," he responded to Scott before he returned his attention to Bain. "Well, Mr. Goldwasser, I just happen to be in need of another drink. If you don't mind, we can talk on our way over to the refreshments." He made a gesture, silently suggesting to the man they take the long way around the atrium.

Was the word 'interesting' too tame? Very likely depending on who you were. But Frankie made note of Saul's response. While trying to figure out how the man felt about all of these changes, he reminded himself to be more careful with his word choice. Nevertheless, it was interesting. It was interesting how this, of all things, became a feature all of a sudden in the Ministry of Magic.

His blue eyes did not waver from Saul, however. The Auror had a hunch that the man, despite his status, was a good person and wasn't content with these tapestries hanging about and this fountain putting that symbol and phrase on display for all to see. But, then again, he wasn't certain. "Yes, quite interesting. Can't say I have seen a fountain be topped off with a flame before..." Mind you he hadn't seen a fountain like this looming over them all before.

But a little tension was released when the IUMO chief spoke again. "I believe we're on the same wavelength, yes," he responded to the older man simply with a nod of his head.

Uncle Moose · 02-22-2021, 12:32 AM

SPOILER!!: Arabella & Dylan

Quote:

Originally Posted by Watson

When Aegis had mentioned the ball, Arabella had been a mixture of emotions. The first had been dread. After having the triplets, she had struggled with working off the baby fat and hadn’t been able to get back to her toned body. However, she had started adjusting to the new curves, feeling a little more content with her body image as the weeks went on after the triplet’s birth. Besides her husband only had to reassure her a hundred thousand times that she was still his goddess. The second emotion, she found herself feeling was excitement. It had been a while since the last formal event and she had been dying to get out of the house and get all dolled up. Too often, she found herself in more practical yoga pants and a hoodie which was something she swore that she’d never wear prior to the pregnancy. So she took the opportunity to get all dolled up in a beautiful and sparkly look. If this was her one night off Mum duty, she was going to look flawless. The third feeling was anxiety. Even though their children’s minder was most trusted, she felt terrified without having the triplets here with them. It was so strange to not have one or two sitting on her hip.

After all that’s what the Morgenstern-Dane’s do.

She felt her husband’s grip tighten slightly and she cast him a quizzical look when he eyed his name tag. “Dont tell me they put Aegis Morgenstern on there, darling,” she teased before picking up her own nametag which read Arabella Dane. She glanced around the room, trying to spot her father or her brother’s wife. However, neither were in site. She had doubted her father would have made it. The family business was rather preoccupying these days.

“Have I told you how handsome you look? We really ought to dress up more often at home... I think the children would like it.” Though she’d like it more. It could be a sort of date night or something if that nature! She leaned into her husband a little. “Do you see your new department head?”

Quote:

Originally Posted by SilverTiger

SPOILER!!: quotes here, Aegis and Arabella

Things seemed to be going as well as they could be near where she had planted herself. At least, the girl Adam had approached seemed to have been willing to help, not to mention the arrival of Laurel to make things that much more smooth. Aside from the appearance of her former professor and current boss, which had nearly elicited a question as to if Airey was particularly okay. Not that Dylan was entirely certain the answer she would have gotten had she asked would have been the truth. She was honestly beginning to doubt that she’d get the truth from any of the department heads at this point, given the assumption that they all had been privy to the “enhancements” made to the Atrium. She knew her history books much too well to believe the sight of Grindelwald’s portrait hanging on the walls extolled any sort of positive influence.

As such, she’d been grateful as her gaze had landed on familiar faces. Familiar faces that weren’t only familiar due to work. Namely Arabella and her sister-in-law’s husband, and she had found herself walking over to the duo almost without thinking. “You two look stunning,” she said as a manner of greeting, accompanying it with a brief smile. Bringing up exactly everything that seemed off about this whole situation hardly seemed like a good starting of point.

He was so hung up on his name tag. It took only a glance to his wife to pull him out of his trance. She was so damn stunning in her dress. She stole the whole night from anyone else. You can't outdo her looks. Biased, yes. Correct, also yes.
He knew she was teasing him about his concern. Pointing to the letters on it. "It's nothing. Perhaps my New Department Head could explain it to me why it says this." Now where were they? They must be making rounds themselves looking to greet their employee's yes? He switched to hold her hand and gave it a tight squeeze as reassurance that he wouldn't let it bother him for the night. She should be worried about her own tag. Despite it saying pureblood, it looked almost no different than his. And he saw how shiny some of the other pureblood tags looked.

"I'm handsome? Bells, I can't even compare to you're beauty." Any onlookers would probably gag at how lovey-dovey they were being with each other. Married for a few months and they still act like a college couple. "I won't say no to that. I'm sure I could convince my Sister-In-Law to make some Baby O-Star suits and dresses. Then we could really look the part." He probably couldn't convince Ariana Gunter to do anything he asked, but it sounded like a brilliant idea.

Was this? Aegis had to do a quick run threw in his head of Arabella's relatives. Dylan was her name right? She was Arabella's Sister-In-Law. Okay easy enough. Aegis was smart. "Thank you. Not half bad yourself, Dylan." smooth talker, Dane. Real smooth. Make yourself look cool in front of extended family.

SPOILER!!: Frankie

He nodded with a stern look on his face when Franklin had said he believed they were on the same wavelength. Saul had a pretty good feeling that more than just the two of them were tuned in on it as well. "I suppose if you wanted to make a strong case for The Greater Good everlasting flames were the route to take." He had said those words a tad bit of a sarcastic manner. His hand in his pocket slightly brushed against one of his two concealed wands but did nothing with it. "Has Bain, or anyone spoken to you yet about what to expect this year? Any assignments before the ministry officially reopens?" He figured the answer would be no or something to that extent. He had to ask him regardless. The DMLE to him felt like the one department that never truly closes it's doors. Law-Breakers wouldn't wait for their department to reopen to cause trouble. Saul also wanted to get some hint as to what was going to happen to the Improper Use of Magic Office. Bain Goldwasser, his Department Headalready seemed very engaged with a large crowd joining with the group around the Minister.

In due time Saul, just remain patient.

Helios Sunrider · 02-22-2021, 12:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MadAlice

She followed him toward the center of the atrium, and as they approached the fountain, she stepped closer to him and whispered in his ear, "Take a look at our head of the Dept. of Mysteries, and see if you don't think I was right." She pulled back and gave a professional smile to Airey Flamsteed as they approached the new fountain.

Jane had cast an anchor from the present into the vast depths of his past that Nero found himself drowning in. The light came back into his eyes at the sound of her voice. He followed the woman's sight line to Airey, those bright eyes narrowing slightly. "You are right. He does look highly suspicious...Where is his drink?" That just wouldn't do.

Nero stalked his way towards his department head like an extra in West Side Story. The music wasn't very conducive to dancing, but the wizard managed to find a rhythm to move to. "Airey! I haven't been to a party like this since the nineteen-forties. Grindelwald had a lot of powerful friends during the war." Standing before Mr.Flamsteed, the doctor held out his hands, offering up either the glass or the bottle. "And they always had the best refreshments."

Nero's involvement in the wizarding war was kept tightly under wraps, as part of his agreement with the ministry, but Airey would be one of the few wizards with the clearance to uncover his secrets if he really did some digging. That might complicate things, but he couldn't consider that right now.

sarahlooo · 02-22-2021, 12:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow

"No," Em replied quietly, her focus on those around them. There were quite a few new faces to observe and she couldn't quite shake the uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. She hadn't decided if one had anything to do with the other, not yet. Taking Nat's arm, she glanced at her friend. "This is all new. I don't really love the vibe." She nudged her best gently, managing a reassuring smile. "But look, if this is awful, we'll just head home early. Sweatpants and slippers suit me just as nicely as fancy dresses do." And there was more than enough food here that perhaps making a little to-go plate would go unnoticed.

Navigating them through the crowd, the auror stopped by the beverages and procured herself something light and bubbly.

"Hmmm," Nat hummed quietly in agreement with Emilia, her eyes darting around at all the different people as they walked through the crowd. She laughed lightly at her friend's comment about going home and changing into sweatpants. "I'll keep that in mind, but I do want to stay here for a while. You know, meet the boss, sneak a peek at the Minister, let everyone see how cute I am in this dress... yada yada." HALF of the excitement of this shindig was getting to dress up!

Natalie followed her friend's lead and got herself a bubbly drink. Despite the message they were sending with the theme of the party, she was still rather excited to be there. "What do you say," the new environmental ranger said to the auror. "Shall we try and make some new friends?" She pulled her friend back into the crowd and weaved through different groups of people, deliberately making eye contact and smiling at all the faces she saw. Who wanted to be friends with two pretty girls?

Cassirin · 02-22-2021, 01:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aRogueOne

“As I said, some things have changed, the communication issues with Hogwarts or lack of being one of them. I may be the Hogwarts liaison but I don’t spend my time flitting back and forth between the Ministry and the school. That’s done by people higher up than me.”. Why did she suddenly feel under pressure all of a sudden? Like she was being grilled? She was just…a simple liaison. Someone who kept track of budgets and all of the boring stuff that went on behind the scenes. Although, with the number of letters and howlers she’d been receiving from anxious parents, it was a wonder that she’d been able to do half of what her job entailed although in truth, she couldn’t blame them for it. If she’d had a child at Hogwarts, she’d try any and everyway to make sure that they were okay.

Delyth did her best to listen to Genevieve with her smile in place but at the mention of her children, it faltered and the mask that she’d been doing her best to hold up slipped, being replaced by how she really felt. Upset. Hurt. “Look…I…”, hesitating for a moment before she continued, “I wish I could talk to the students there. To check up on them but I can’t. No one can as far as I know”.

As for the 90% paper work, that she could do because she certainly wasn’t suited to the latter. Taking another sip, she replied “I mean there’s nothing wrong with a little desk work. Someone has to do it”, her voice a little more steady now as she finished off her second drink of the night. “Being an auror was never on the cards for me though. Not really” although her OWL and NEWT results would somewhat contradict that statement. Then again, she imagined that being one took a lot more than book smarts.

"Okay," Vivi shrugged and went for a nonchalant look, but that heavy feeling that had been living in her stomach for months returned with a vengeance. Still no way to find out how the children were doing. Still no idea if they were hurt or scared or even alive. She offered a small smile, almost apologetic, and offered, "You must be inundated with those kind of questions. I'm worried about three of those kids, but you have to worry about all of them."

So she'd let it drop, since it seemed like an impossible topic. No one was going to find satisfaction in it, that much was for sure. "I don't mind the desk work, personally. I think the new recruits are surprised by it, but it's important. Legal cases live and die on proper paperwork, no matter how perfect the arrest was. But enough about that..." They didn't have to out bore each other on the minutiae of their job. "How long have you worked for the Ministry?"

TeafortheSoul · 02-22-2021, 03:40 AM

Calyx was excited because of two reasons, first reason being that he liked his job and enjoyed anything to do with his job, and second because he enjoyed his fiancée and she was here with him now! On his arm! His plus one! Except plus only one didn't really cut it so it was more like his plus a million! She was much better than a one.

Hehe.

"Look, Nina, we get name tags!" He found the one with his name on it - Calyx Morgan-Bott, Botanist- and pinned it on (a little crooked). It also happened to say 'halfblood' though it was rather nice compared to many of the other nametags that also were labeled as such. Calyx didn't notice at all though, he was too busy putting the lapel pin on too (a little less crooked).

"Should we get a drink first? Then we can say hi to people and I can introduce you to all my coworkers! And then dance, if you want to." Whatever she wanted to. Hehe.

ArianaBlack · 02-22-2021, 04:56 AM

SPOILER!!: Calyx

Nina had been looking forward to the gala all week. It was a promising opportunity to forget about her coursework for a few hours, something she hardly ever had the chance to do (though even when she did have the chance, she rarely took it - her degree was important!). It also helped that she liked dressing up and even more than that, she liked seeing Calyx dress up. He looked so good in a suit, did he know?

Name tags? "That's nice," she smiled, stepping forward and looking for her own. She found her bag near her fiancé's, but there was one glaring difference: it's size. Though Calyx didn't notice, Nina found this to be curious and began snooping through the other party favors. Immediately she recognized that they were sorted by bloodstatus and this... made her feel uncomfortable. The Ministry was a bureaucratic institution, something Nina recalled from her internship, but still this was unsettling.

Before she had the chance to think about this any further, Calyx pulled her from her thoughts. "Hm?" She turned to look at him now, quickly pinning her own name tag to her dress as he spoke. "That sounds lovely." And it did. She did want to dance, but it was important that she met his coworkers and had the chance to boast about him before they did any dancing. Calyx always took the time to shower her with praise, it was only right that she did the same for him. He deserved it more than anyone she knew. "But let me fix your name tag first," she laughed softly, reaching over to fix it for him, before slipping her hand into his. "Calyx, look, they replaced the fountain." Nina instinctively pulled herself closer to him. She was clearly feeling some type of way.

Slowfie · 02-22-2021, 02:59 PM

Text Cut: Olly & mention of Calyx

There were many things that sounded more appealing than attending this mandatory Ministry gala, including ~~but not limited to~~ open heart surgery without anaesthesia, teaching a greenhouse full of mandrakes Christmas carols, or being the test subject of your own poisons. But it was, of course, mandatory and so Bertie was in attendance. Although the event would be much more tolerable with Emile by her side, she'd decided to go alone. A boyfriend and a baby at home were the perfect excuse for a speedy exit once she'd gotten done with the usual pleasantries. Thank you for the promotion, but I ought to be on my way now, cheerio! These kinds of events were never her thing, but they were even less her thing with the current set up.

Alberta got her name tag and stuck it to the front of her jacket. Alberta Bowman. Head of Botany Division. Pureblood. Was bloodstatus really necessary? Surely the Ministry knew everyone's bloodstatus already. The blood status on display was about as necessary as the latest architectural addition to the Atrium. Couldn't they at the very least come up with a slogan of their own? This one hadn't worked for Grindelwald and it ~~hopefully~~ wouldn't work for them either. It seemed more like some sorry attempt at embarrassing those with supposedly less than desirable blood status.

Tonight, however, was not the night to get into petty arguments about the ministry's new course. So Bertie made her way inside, collecting her giftbag before scanning the room for any friendly faces. It didn't take her too long to spot the young kid Calyx, offering him a quick smile before checking for other DERP people ~~more her age~~. Bertie noticed her Department Head Olly in the far corner and made her way over, nodding at a few colleagues whose names she probably should know but definitely didn't.
"The party we've all been waiting for." She said, not bothering to hide the sarcasm in her voice. "How long do you think we have to act like we're having a good time until it's acceptable to leave?"

Text Cut: Alexander and Peggy!

Quote:

Originally Posted by oh its Erik ok

Well, Alexander could not help but snort laughter at that. Humor was the only thing he had left after seeing that statue "You think they overdid it or could have gone even more out there in design" He murmurs to Darcey. Though with the statue it's hard to top what they did. Guess it would have been some extremely good luck to not have to have a conservation with anyone, not in DERP. Would have been nice not that he is complaining about it or anything. He can make small talk since as Darcey pointed out it was a Department Head(Peggy). Ah, not one he has rarely talked to but that was mostly his fault since he was holed up in his office or home or dealing with oceanologists

"Evening, quite the party indeed. How have you been?"

Maybe he should have lead Darcey to anyone in DERP first but anyway not the time to think about stuff like that and she(Peggy) seems nice enough.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Waddles

SPOILER!!: Darcey & Alexander

Peggy was really trying to remain pleasant and professional. Ostentatious though the new additions to the atrium and the rest of the Ministry were, it was the implications that bother her more than the extravagant spending. She noticed the discomfort of these two, but was not about to comment on it. Let everyone have their own private discomfort, she supposed.

"Yes, quite a lot of effort has been put into tonight," she said simply. She was surprised at the how have you been comment, it was a little familiar, but no matter. She decided to focus on the positive and gestured to her name tag, hoping to draw attention to her promotion. "It's been a busy few weeks, coming up to speed after Victoria stepped down. I hope you and your families have been well?" She hoped the couple did not think she was prying into their family life or, Merlin forbid, their blood status, but small talk was required. She was doing her best here.

She caught sight of her predecessor herself, standing near the Minister and a few other women. It would be nice to chat with her later, if the evening permitted, she supposed. Oh! And there was one of her division managers, Milo. Peggy definitely intended to speak with him about some business in the Gobstones League. If work talk were permitted at a fancy part such as this. She definitely preferred work talk to small talk, but not everyone did.

Darcey suppressed a laugh at Alex's question and pretended to admire the statue a bit longer. "They could've added some crying muggles. Go big or go home, babes." She replied quietly, unable to keep herself from snorting.
Wasn't there some nonsense saying about finding light in times of darkness or something? Laughing at your own circumstances was one of those things, right? But this was a serious event, of course, and so she straightened her face out. "You'll have to introduce me to the other nerds in your department later."

"No expenses spared, hm." Although Darcey definitely noticed some expenses had been spared, depending on bloodstatus, naturally. She wasn't sure whether Peggy was someone Alexander knew, but Florence was the Perfect child, who wouldn't want to know about her? You know, aside from the people here who thought she was dirt for having a Muggle for a father? "Very well, glad for the Christmas break to be over for the kids." Darcey offered her a smile.

**Simone Krafft** · 02-22-2021, 04:05 PM

SPOILER!!: Alphosine, Stella, Daichi

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alphonsine Rosier

Alphonsine could not be more pleased with the obvious changes to the Ministry as they ushered in a new dawn. How very exciting. And it was only fitting that they celebrate with this extravagant gala set in place for the annual orientation.

Appropriately dressed to the nines, she strolled in through the atrium and her eyes were immediately drawn to the beautiful, commanding statue that replaced that old fountain. She'd certainly have to get a better look at it, but first she chose the shiny name tag with her proud pureblood status listed on it and affixed it to the front of her dress and collected her fancy favour bag.

She gave the immediate vicinity a cursory glance as she proceeded further inside, catching sight of a few of the department heads. The newest ones - Laplace and Bagnold - as well as Phora. Perhaps it was because she was in such a good mood, but she did not notice their unease. Or perhaps she just chose not to acknowledge it to herself because she knew they'd comply with the changes or they could be easily replaced. Ms. Jordan-Durand found out just how easily she could be replaced a year ago.

As she approached the Minister, Alphonsine caught sight of the squib talking to him. A squib who was taking a job away from a more qualified witch or wizard. Alphonsine barely spared her a disapproving glance before turning to the Minister with a wide smile, so she could ignore the girl completely and draw the Minister's attention away from her in the process. "Charles. I think we've really outdone ourselves tonight. The Ministry looks magnificent." She was rather delighted with the impressive regalia throughout the space and she looked up at the flickering flame as she basked in the glory of the new statue.

Turning as she heard another voice speak, she nodded in agreement. Dante Zabini, she'd heard good things about him recently and she was glad to hear a dignified wizard speak in such appreciative tones about the new era that was being ushered in. It was a good time to be a witch or wizard and embrace their magical heritage. "Isn't it just?" she commented on Zabini's words. "And it's only the beginning. Good things are coming. It's reason to celebrate."

Ah yes, and there was the department head she wanted to see tonight - no, it wasn't Sian. While she certainly had her well-earned place in the Ministry, she always managed to give Alphonsine a headache. Still, she was in such a pristine mood that she had no problem giving the other woman a smile and greeting, "Good evening, Sian," before moving onto greener pastures.

Alphonsine had caught sight of Simone and gave her a smile that hinted of self-satisfaction. She did look stunning with the backdrop of the new and improved Ministry behind her. Perhaps she could get her a glass of champagne and they could toast to the greater good together.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz

Was she late? Probably a little.

Stopping in the entrance way, Stella lifted eyed the nametags and lapel pins. That was new. Wait until she told Cohen. She picked up her set, and attached the shiny high quality nametag to her dress and then made her way through security and inside proper. Her flatmate was around here somewhere. Stella hadn't bothered arranging a date this year so hanging out with Sarangerel was the plan unless she met someone new and interesting. Or old and interesting. She didn't mind a little seasoning.

If she noticed the changes to the fountain and such, Stella didn't make it obvious. She would absolutely recount it all to her brother however. At least if it came down to it they could go back home to France. Though she had heard things were happening there too just a little less..... this.

Maybe a drink first and then she'd go and listen to the non-muggle music.

Quote:

Originally Posted by DuckyLinJi

Having worked at a crop farm for several years, there was no reason for Daichi Katharos to own a suit. Which meant that especially for the mandatory Gala, he had to buy a new one. The suit was a simple design, it didn’t stand out and that was exactly what he had went for. It had been years since Daichi had last stepped foot in the Ministry and from only a quick look around, he could tell that a lot had changed since that time.

Entering the Atrium , Daichi stepped up to the table with party favors and grabbed one of the small bags before opening it up. He pulled out a ministry pin and immediately pinned it on his suit on the opposite side of his breast pocket before pulling out a name tag. A frown played on his face as he read “Half-Blood” under his name. He looked up after pinning his name label on his suit below the pin and took note of the employees around him sporting the same name labels with their blood status shown. This was definitely a new thing because he could not remember that his blood status had been out and in the open for everyone the see when he had last worked here.

As he entered the party, the man immediately noticed that the fountain of magical brethren had been replaced by another statue. The design was, pretty decent from afar. He walked closer to check it out , having a terrible feeling in his stomach as he got closer and closer. The words ‘For the greater good’ and the Deathly Hallows symbol edged on the statue did not sit well with him.

The ministry had changed but was it for the better? He had to find out.

—

If the Ministry Gala had not been a mandatory event , Kevin Hirase would not have been found inside the party. But alas, here he was marching through the Atrium , passing new comers without a word with his head held up high. He took one of the bags on the table and pinned both pin and name label with Pureblood written under it on his suit.

He did not waste any time and went straight for one of the buffet tables, grabbed a beverage before turning around to survey the people in the room instead of ‘mingling’ .

She saw the minister look her way and gave him a nod, she wasn't going to go over and mingle with that entire group. It was to big for her liking and she had other places to place herself, though she did catch Alphonsine glimpse and decided to head that way to be near her.

As she headed that way she couldn't help but stop when she saw Stella come in, "I hope you had a nice break Stella." The department head gave one of her extra wide smiles. "We are going to be very busy once we are back, things are going to be wonderfully different now." Was her excitement a little too obvious.

Another employee caught her eye and she looked to introduce herself. "Daichi welcome to orientation. I presume you've looked over your employee files I sent during holiday." She wanted all her employees to know exactly what to expect. "This is Stella, Stella this is one of our newest employees Daichi"

DuckyLinJi · 02-22-2021, 06:13 PM

SPOILER!!: Regina - Stella - Simone

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlwaysSnapesGirl

This was certainly not what Regina had in mind when the Minister had mentioned renovations over the wireless. The symbol and the words underneath the massive new statue made her history nerd brain wave equally massive red flags in her head.

Other than her eyes widening slightly, she tried her hardest not to react. She simply grabbed the bag and carefully pinned the name tag (Regina Amstern, Gift Shop Attendant, Half-blood) to her dress before moving towards the statue. As much as she was put off by it, she couldn't help the curiosity driving her to get a closer look.

And it seemed she wasn't the only one who wanted to check it out. She stopped beside a man she didn't recognize, so he was either a new hire or one of the many people who worked here that she didn't know. And maybe that was a problem now, not knowing very many people. So maybe she should make an attempt at conversation or something.

"This statue is an interesting change, isn't it?"[/color]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz

Was she late? Probably a little.

Stopping in the entrance way, Stella lifted eyed the nametags and lapel pins. That was new. Wait until she told Cohen. She picked up her set, and attached the shiny high quality nametag to her dress and then made her way through security and inside proper. Her flatmate was around here somewhere. Stella hadn't bothered arranging a date this year so hanging out with Sarangerel was the plan unless she met someone new and interesting. Or old and interesting. She didn't mind a little seasoning.

If she noticed the changes to the fountain and such, Stella didn't make it obvious. She would absolutely recount it all to her brother however. At least if it came down to it they could go back home to France. Though she had heard things were happening there too just a little less..... this.

Maybe a drink first and then she'd go and listen to the non-muggle music.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Simone Krafft

She saw the minister look her way and gave him a nod, she wasn't going to go over and mingle with that entire group. It was to big for her liking and she had other places to place herself, though she did catch Alphonsine glimpse and decided to head that way to be near her.

As she headed that way she couldn't help but stop when she saw Stella come in, "I hope you had a nice break Stella." The department head gave one of her extra wide smiles. "We are going to be very busy once we are back, things are going to be wonderfully different now." Was her excitement a little too obvious.

Another employee caught her eye and she looked to introduce herself. "Daichi welcome to orientation. I presume you've looked over your employee files I sent during holiday." She wanted all her employees to know exactly what to expect. "This is Stella, Stella this is one of our newest employees Daichi"

Daichi unpinned his name label from his suit because it was crooked and was about to pin it back when a voice next to him startled him. He nearly dropped the pin but his quick quidditch reflexes that had never left his body he caught it.

As if nothing had happened, he calmly pinned the label back before turning his head to the side to look at the Witch. ”It looks…” unnerving , unsettling, red flags went of in his head the moment he had seen the symbol. ”Interesting, doesn’t it?” he answered before turning fully to woman and held out his hand. ”Daichi Katharos, new employee in the Transportation Department ” he introduced himself.

Just then, another voice caught his attention and as he looked over he noticed that it was his Department Head. ”Excuse me for a second” he told the witch by the new fountain and with a quick nod of his head he left.

”Thank you, it feels good to be working for the Ministry again.” while he said these words he tried to get rid of the uneasy feeling in his stomach. He was most likely just nervous. ”I did” he said before giving Stella who he was introduced to a small nod in acknowledgment.

SPOILER!!: Tomasz and Jake

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArianaBlack

Tomasz quietly stepped into the atrium. He had every intention to make way for one of the corners of the room, but stopped when he found himself in front of the table of party favors. He eyed the array of gifts curiously, tilting his head from one side to the other as he sifted through them in search of his own name. At first, it did not occur to him that the gifts were sorted by blood status. In fact, he had instinctively moved to look through the smaller gifts first, thinking the size had to do with the rank of their jobs. As a lowly security guard, it made sense that Tomasz would find his name within the smallest pile.

And he did.

What was curious about the matter, however, was that just below his name, he found the word 'muggleborn'. Muggleborn was something that Tomasz was not. Or rather, there was a chance, but... He was ....... not so sure. He had never given anyone this information, for he, himself, did not know it. Did the Ministry have information that he did not?

It was unsettling and Tomasz did not want to wear the nametag. Rather than pin it to his person, he kept it in his hand and made his way towards the edge of the atrium where he began to notice the changes to the space. Finding himself feeling uncomfortable, he reached his hand into his pocket, instinctively wrapping his fingers around his wand.

It was only then that he realized where he had ended up: near the buffet. He hadn't realized that he was gravitating towards it, but it always seemed to end up this way one way or another. Still feeling unsettled, he held off on grabbing a plate and instead turned towards one of his colleagues. Though he did not cross paths with Kevin Hirase too much and did not know his usual mannerisms, Tomasz found the way he was surveying the room to be a sign that maybe he also felt something was ... off. "You are finding something unusual?" He asked, skipping pleasantries all together without realizing he had done so. His eyes wandered over towards the group consisting of the Minister for Magic and his own Department Head. He would say hello later, maybe.[/COLOR]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Felixir

In case anyone was wondering, Jake was deeply uncomfortable, but more relieved than he'd ever been that he did not - as a general rule - wear his emotions all over his face. The nametags, he'd not immediately realised what it was about them that made him so unsettled, not until he'd taken a closer look at the decorations inside, and especially the... fountain. It was easy to ignore the name tag on his own chest - Auror, Jacob Upstead, Pureblood - and his thoughts were instead entirely on Becca, and what was written on hers. It had barely been a few minutes, but already he wanted to regroup with his wife, and keep her by his side.

Setting down an empty glass, Jake began to make a circuit of the Atrium, fidgeting slightly inside his, restrictive and too-warm, but very fancy suit. The Auror salary had been extremely beneficial, but with six kids still at home, each more demanding than the last, not to mention still providing for the oldest three over holidays (less of an issue this term, granted), Jake still didn't have the spare funds to go shelling out for fancy gala clothes. Renting was a waste, none of his everyday attire fit the bill, and anything that might once had worked was far too shabby.

This suit had been borrowed from Dale, who was the same height as Jake but not as broad in the shoulder or chest. In the end they'd had to adjust it enough that his brother had just let him keep it, as a late gift. Much as Jake had appreciated it then, he hated the thing now.

Straightening the lapel pin he'd also affixed to his front, Jake paused in his when he reached two of his Law Enforcement colleagues. He hadn't intended to stop, but the younger lad's words had caught his attention, and Jake took the opportunity to pretend he was grabbing a bite to eat, and casually glanced over at the two. "... You didn't get a name tag, Tomasz?" He shot him a small smile, intended to convey he himself wasn't happy with this labelling system, but... who knew how it came across. And then to the other, "Kevin, good to see you here." Small talk was the worst, but Jake was interested in the answer to Tomasz' question, how all this was coming across to everyone else, except he also hoped they wouldn't actually launch all the way into that discussion right here and now. It was a bit of a quandary.

Kevin stood there, leaning against the buffet table as his eyes took everything in . And with everything he meant everything. Years of diving in to the memories of witnesses to look for any missed details had made him view the world outside of the pensieve the same way. He took mental notes of everyone’s positions in the room and their behaviors.

”Well, the first unusual thing is that you are not wearing your name ta—“ he was about to comment about Tomasz name tag but Jake had beaten him to it. He send the man a ‘oi that was my line!’ look before he grumbled a ”Yeah , you too” showing that he was not pleased having to mingle at all . He’d rather be studying a brutal crime than be here. ”What do you two think of the new fountain?” he asked, being careful not to tell his own feelings of discomfort the moment he had seen the symbols..

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