Azura bit her lip as she smoothed down her dress. The fifteen year old was nervous as she stood by the floo, waiting to greet the guests that arrived this way. She was hoping that this would be a fun party! Fwoopers knew that they could all use some happiness this summer! She took another deep breath and looked up at Leon as she stood next to him.. "People are going to come right? "

Leon knew his little sister was nervous but her question made him smile.. "I know for a fact at least one person is.. so just calm down and have a good time, yeah? Everything looks perfect. " He said with a smile as he put his arm around her shoulders and gave a soft squeeze. "And stop fiddling with your dress! You look perfect! "

Az grinned up at her brother and smiled.. "As do you! Juno is going to faint with she sees you. " She said with a warm smile as she smoothed down her dress one more time.. as long as two people didn't show up.. things would be golden.. the entire world could crash but as long as two people didn't show their face.. it would be a success...

There was something about going to a Masqurade that made Mel nervous. It may have been the fact that she had managed, somehow, to slip into a fancy gown, or maybe it was the fact that she knew Ace was also invited. Something, had obviously made her fret as she stood there by the floo at her aunt’s house…sure she might have snuck out to go here but it wasn’t like that was a horrible thing was it? No, her dads knew where she was but the soon-to-be-fifth year had left out the fact that the friend she was most nervous to run into had kissed her earlier that school year. When he was hurt, but still, it was nerve wracking.

”Don’t worry, you look great Melon,” Aunt Alicia’s words had soothed her in that moment as she gave her a small nod and thanked her for letting her use the floo at work…it wasn’t like she was about to go home and have her dads fret once more about the gown she was wearing. It wasn’t even the least bit revealing – well, it sort of was in the fact that nothing could hide the fact that she was in fact a woman…or well, a girl with a womanly figure.

Something her own body had decided was a brilliant idea without even the slightest thought of asking for her permission. Stupid body. She threw in the small amount of green floo powder before stepping into the no longer burning flames and calling out her destination. Please don’t become a sooty mess…I don’t want to be Cinder-mellon she thought to herself with her eyes stuck tight. One – two…the sensation of twirling through floo after floo made her feel like she was going to fall over until like clockwork it stopped.

”oh thank merlin” she muttered and began to dust herself off before looking around at the Parisian manor she was now stepping into. ”Azura Snow, this place is brilliant” Mel grinned at her friend and stepped out of the floo. ”Hello Leon,” Mel grinned at the boy she had met in Diagon Alley before Azura had returned to Hogwarts. ”Az, Leon, you two look spectacular” she smiled as she took tucked a lock of floo swept hair out of her face.

Arriving by floo with a ball gown was not easy. Juno had to make sure that every inch of her dress and person was covered by a protective barrier. Floo powder could be messy and she didn't want to ruin her dress. As soon as she said the name of Azura's family home in France, she was instantly there! She looked about her to make sure that there was no dirt spots, and luckily enough the protective barrier had worked! She grinned, and stepped through to see people that had arrived just before her greeting Azura and Leon.

Leon....as if he couldn't be anymore handsome, put a suit on him and he was ridiculously gorgeous. She couldn't believe how handsome he looked. Juno, adjusted her dress a little, made sure that her promise ring was in the perfect position as well as the ring on her other hand, and made sure her long golden waves of hair were just right before approaching.

She stepped forward, she was wearing actual stilettos, and headed straight to Leon, the sheer skirt of her dress showing off her muscular slim legs, and making a swooshing sound as she went. "Hello, Captain." She said with a wink and a huge grin. "Aren't we looking mighty handsome tonight." She waggled her eyebrows at him and chuckled. She then turned to Azura, "Hey Az, you look stunning!" She pulled the younger girl into a quick hug. She couldn't believe how grown up and sophisticated Azura looked. Wasn't this girl just a clumsy first year yesterday? She was absolutely gorgeous.

But soon her gaze made it's way back to Leon. He was just so perfect, she couldn't stop staring at him. She slid her hand into his, and whispered, "You look so handsome, I don't know how I will ever stop looking at you." She smiled, nervously biting her lip, and kissed his cheek. It was a good thing she was wearing smudge proof lipstick.

Plain.

That was the word that rang through Mason's head as she stared into the mirror, her critical eye taking in every detail or flaw in her appearance. The white dress was simply cut, the pale material looking stark against the slits of tan skin it showed, her freshly dyed light brown hair falling in lazy waves on her bare shoulders. She ran a hand over the form-fitting material, smiling slightly to herself. Her previously boyish body was taking on an actual shape, even if it wasn't as curvaceous as she would have liked. Mason couldn't help but think about what her former self would have said if she were standing here instead, probably snorting at the dress, opting for one that she thought would attract the most attention . . . Ughh.

"You look beautiful, Steve." Her father said from beside her, her brother balanced on his hip. She couldn't help but smile at the old nickname, happy that she was spending her summer with her father. After the whole Monster-and-inevitable-death-thing, Mason had decided to forgive him, since the last thing she wanted was her for her to disappear and for him to go out thinking that she hated him. Running a hand over the dress one last time, Mason smiled to herself in the mirror before turning towards her father. "I won't be back too late - and you don't have to worry about me. I know how to handle myself." she said matter-of-factly, turning from the mirror and starting down the hall towards the fireplace. She stopped before it, reaching into the bowl atop the mantelpiece and throwing some of the content into the embers. Stepping inside, Mason hoped that not only would she actually arrive at the place, but also in one piece and preferable in a dress that wasn't stained with soot. She closed her eyes and said the name of Az's grandparent's home as clearly as she could -

And when she opened her brown eyes again, she was standing inside the floo of the lavishly decorated Manor. Mason couldn't help but grin when she saw everyone before her. Stepping out of the fireplace and dusting her dress off, she made her way towards them, heels clicking on the floor. "Ugh, you all look so beautiful." It was true, they all looked amazing. It made her question the simplicity of her own attire for the millionth time, but there was no going back now. "Azuraaa-" She practically sang as she approached her gorgeous friend, "Oh look at you, you're absolutely stunning! I've missed you so much." She said, practically tackling the Ravenclaw in an embrace. "Leon," she said as she let Az go, looking over her brother, "Looking immaculate as always." Even if she'd just met him once, she was pretty sure that was a very true statement. She turned towards the girl that was locked onto her arm, "You're Esme's sister," duh, "Juno, right? I'm Mason, I don't think we've officially met yet." The girl looked stunning in that gown. Ughh, she'd kill for legs like that.

And last put certainly not least - "Mel!" she greeted, grinning at her friend. "You look glorious. That dress looks absolutely spectacular on you, love." And a hug for Mel too, since she'd missed the Gryffindor as well.

Attending a masquerade party was supposed to be fun. So why was the seventeen year old freaking outside inside. It wasn't like she had never been to a fancy ballroom or had to dress up before. Maybe it had something to do with the reason for her attending this party. Wesley Black. Had it not been him who asked for her to come she may have politely declined the invitation, simply because chances were she wouldn't know many people there.

As it was she was attending. Time had been spent in finding the perfect dress, shoes and accessories. Even more time had been spent in making sure she looked like she hadn't spent hours painting just before she had to get ready. With another glance in front of the floor length mirror in her bedroom she finally turned and headed into her father's office making for the fireplace. There was greeted by her father and twin whom she once more asked to accompany her, only for him to once again turn her down. Letting out a slow she waved off their compliments on her appearance and grabbed a small amount of floo powder from the bowl on the mantel.

Stepping inside the fireplace she ran her free hand over her dress and brushed her hair from her face. With a small at the two men watching her she recited the name of the manor she was to go to, dropping the floo powder as she spoke. Within a matter of moments she arrived in the Ballroom of the manor in France. Stepping out of the fireplace her eyes drifted once over her dress for any soot, not that it would be easy to see on a black dress.

Hazel eyes moved around the few that were already there searching for someone she didn't see. Where was Wes? Letting out a slow breath Tallyn made her way across the room her heels clicking softly against the floor. "Azura, you look amazing," the brunette greeted softly giving the younger girl a warm smile. "Hello, Leon," she added right after, him being the only other person she kinda knew here at the moment. Why hadn't she made an attempt to actual get to know those she went to school with?

Whiz Bang Pop! And there he was!

See traveling by Floo is much faster. Its true that his grandmother's apartment wasnt too far away from here and he can actually come in through the Kennedy manor's front door, but grandma was fussy and Tenacius just wasnt. Her fussiness is already apparent on him anyway, what with his outfit for the ball. A good thing really. Had he dressed himself today he'd probably look more folksy than fancy.

"Heya Az, Leon! Nice digs!" the newly minted 5th year greeted his hosts as he shook the dust off himself and stepped out of the fireplace.

He looked around to see there were some guests already there. Lovely ladies look LOVELY-- Azura of course.... Juno too.... holy cannoli is that Mason in a white dress?.... another lovely girl (Tallyn) he wasnt quite familiar with and....

..... well hello hello and HELLO "Mel!--" he greeted his childhood bestie and was about to say another crass joke they usually pull with each other, but he remembers his grandmother's words before he left-- be classy. At least as far as he can bear it. So instead he says "You're quite the vision tonight."

Vision. Hehehe. Cant help it can he?

He was ready for this. Merlin knew this Baltazar needed a break from all the things family right now. The fact that he could've died still rung in his head. It was louder some days than others.

He was planning on forgetting all of that tonight. And he was going to be with his girl, which was the best part of it all.

Cornelius Orion Baltazar donned a sleek, black suit with silver buttons along his blazer and at his cuffs. He even had a cloak on that matched the sleep black. No bow tie tonight. He was growing out of those. Then there was the mask; black with the edges a shimmery silver that complimented his suit. The mast ran along half his face, covering all but a corner of his mouth, cheek and chin. His gleaming green eyes visible.

Curly head was in the house!

Maybe Esme was running a little late, but that was okay. Juno hadn't left TOO soon before her, and besides Olly wasn't feeling well. She had wanted to stay behind with him, but of course her boyfriend had insisted that she go on ahead without him. Even though she felt bad about leaving him, he was more than capable of taking care of himself. Still, she did not like this. Hopefully he would be feeling better when this was over!

Traveling by floo wasn't her favourite by any means, and wearing a gown served to make it even more difficult. Still Esme was sure that this would go off without a hitch. She spoke the address clearly, and it was no surprise when she ended up right in the middle of the party. Okay, maybe floo wasn't SO bad after all, but that didn't mean she wasn't counting down the days until she could learn how to apparate. In the meantime, this worked perfectly.

"Hello, everyone! You are all looking wonderful." Especially Juno, but then her twin sister always managed to look stunning. "I'm so happy to be here. Olly's not feeling well, so he can't come. Shame because he would have loved all the black..." Sigh. Well, maybe another time! He had at least liked her outfit.

One of the perks of having a parent who works for the Diplomatic Corps, was the quick and easy access to an international apparition. It would have been a real problem if the rising fifth year Ravenclaw arrived by Floo, considering that his French wasn't that good, and his pronunciation worse. It wasn't hard to ask his father for this small favour, however, Jace was a bit conflicted by the fact that he ought to be at home studying for his upcoming OWLs. But then again, his best friend was hosting this ball so he must show his full support. A little bit of partying wouldn't hurt, right?

"Jace...stop fidgeting." Ryden side-eyed his son, and gently ushered him towards the door of the manor with a grin. "I know what you're thinking, but tonight, you ought to have some fun first. Start and end the OWL year with a party." Did he sound like a cool father now? Maiya would never approve, but then again, he wouldn't undermine Jace's ability to make up for the lost time. He was a true Ravenclaw. Stopping at the threshold, Ryden rang the bell for Jace, and gently turned his son to face him. "I'll meet you back where we appeared a while ago. For now, relax and mingle." he said smoothing down Jace's suit, and straightening his bow tie. As soon as the door opened, Ryden smiled at the attendant and clapped Jace's back. "Off you go."

Jace was silent from beginning to end, and opted to just listen to his father. There was no point arguing with him because he was all about him being sociable. The truth is, he wasn't the sociable type of Ravenclaw, but then again, this was for Azura. He would go the extra mile for his best friend. "Thank you, papa. I'll see you in a while." Jace smiled at his father, and gently placed a hand on his back to show his appreciation. He wouldn't worry too much about his father getting bored while roaming around Paris. He was sure that he will be just fine exploring the city.

Jace politely bowed to the doorman who held the door for him, and showed himself inside the manor and headed for the ballroom. As he entered the room, Jace was taken aback by what he saw. First, everyone was dressed to the nines, considering that he was so used to seeing them in uniforms, and secondly, the place. It looked like a hotel from the many travels he had with his father and uncle, and Jace had a hard time understanding that this was actually home to someone. It was safe to say that the 15-year-old gaped at the scene, and was only able to recover when someone passed by him snapping himself out of his daze. Jace could see Azura and her brother from a distance, and as much as he knows what to do, he couldn't bring himself to take the step forward to say hi. He felt himself go pale as he tried to find his center. He pretty much felt attacked at the moment, so instead of diving right into greetings, Jace slowly moved towards the side, and leaned against the ornate wall.

If only Mahiro was there...

Hey look! People were showing up! Azura let out a soft sigh of relief, hopefully there would be no crashers, though they wouldn't even be let through the floo, thanks to a handy spell her grandparents had devised! She was grateful for that, there were a few people she didn't want here..

This was her party and she wanted to have a good time and not worry about anything!

She smiled as Mel came through the floo first and she moved to give her friend a hug.. "Thank you Mel! You look amazing yourself!" She said with a wide smile as she pulled back and looked at her friends dress.. "Please come on in! " She said as she motioned to the ballroom.. "Dinner, dancing! Anything you wanna do!" She said as she smiled at her grandparents and her various Uncles who were stationed around the room..

She was about to say more when the floo flashed again!

It was Juno!! She grinned as the girl went straight to her brother and she smiled warmly at her and hugged her back.. "You look amazing Juno.. Nice ring.." She said with a wink as she let the lovebirds have their moment..She adored Juno and she knew there wasn't anyone better for her brother!

She smiled as she saw Mason coming out and she practically ran to her friend.. "Masonnnn! You look amazing! " She said as she hugged her back.. "I've missed you as well, so much! I'm so glad you could make it! " She said with a warm smile..

"Tallyn!" She greeted Wes's girlfriend.. "You look so beautiful, thank you so much for coming! Wes is over there with my uncle helping set up! " She said with a warm grin..

She grinned at Tenacius as he made his way in and she smiled at him happily.. "Thanks so much! And Welcome!"

The next arrival made Azura's face light up and she rushed to her boyfriend, tackling him in a hug.. "You made it!" Was all she said as she hugged him tightly to her..

She managed to disengage herself from him for a moment to give Esme a warm hug though.. "I'm so glad you are here!! I'm sorry about Olly though! " She said with a soft frown..

Leon smiled as the floo started to get a bit busy with arrivals and he smiled warmly at Mel.. "Hello!" He said with a smile before there she was.. looking like a Goddess sent down from heaven to bemuse his poor mortal eyes..

Juno..

"You look.. absolutely stunning.. I don't even have words for how amazing you look. " He said as he looked down at her with a warm smile, barely able to take his eyes off of her..He rubbed at his neck a little nervously as she spoke and he gave her a sheepish grin.. "Thanks Quicksilver.. but no one is going to be looking at me tonight.." He said with a warm grin.. He barely managed to grin at the incoming arrivals.. he was so taken with his girl..

Wes was helping Azura and Leon's Uncle Kalen set up some of the drinks when he heard a familiar voice and he smiled and nodded to Kalen who waved him on..

He turned and looked easily across the ballroom to where Tallyn was and he stopped close to her..

"Tal.. you look amazing. " He said softly as he took her hand.. "I almost can't breathe you look so breathtaking.. " He whispered to her.

Azura was mingling with her friends when she saw her Uncle Kalen nod his head over at her and she peered over to where he was glancing and a warm smile lit up he face as she saw her best friend leaning against a wall!

And he was all dressed up!

"Excuse me for a second. " She said as she moved away from the floo and hurried, (carefully mind you, she was in heels) to where her best friend was... "Hey there. " She said softly as she leaned next to him.. "Thanks for coming.. " a warm grin on her face as she looked at him.

Melbourne beamed at Azura when she heard her kind words. ”Oh pishhhhposh you look far better than I would ever dream of,” Mel grinned at her and nodded. ”all of it – especially the dancing! I’ve been dying to dance for ages since term ended really” Mel grinned at her friend and smiled when she watched as the others clambered through the floo!

MASON WAS HERE! MASON! She hadn’t seen Mase since the end of term and that was faaaar too long. Really, Mase was like air to her, without her in her life she would have shriveled away to nothingness…well, that was a bit dramatic but really, the girl was absolutely wonderful.

”Mase!” she beamed at her friend, ”oh my god you look perfect! Precious even…loooove what you did with your hair!” she grinned and blushed at the comment of her dress, ”thank you – I ugh, got it partially for a wedding I’m headed to this summer…thought it should get a bit more usage? Y’know, especially with how its so much fun to twirl in” she grinned and hugged Mason tightly before stepping back and demonstrating the twirl.

It was then, right after she had twirled that she saw him – Tenacius Salander was there…and looking at her and saying her name…oh right. Her name. He was talking to her – Mel grinned over to him as said she…was a vision? ”I’m a what now?...a vision?” she asked her eyebrow arching upwards as her face became far more perplexed then before. ”I was half expecting you to make a joke about the fact I look slightly taller than usual or maybe tell me not to” she paused to adjust the skirt of her dress, ”fall for you if I tripped over this mass of tule” she smiled softly a blush rising in her cheeks. ”bah-um…but a vision is a good thing, except when it’s a seer predicting death and destruction…I’m not that kind of vision right?” she asked the nerves still in place as she stood there near him. ”you look nice by the way, the um…the look it suits you, the mask is near with the attached hat kind of has a matador feeling to it?” she grinned and took a slight step closer to him.

Right – she didn’t want to be silly here and be a fool so at the last minute she simply turned to say hello to the other entrants. ”Hey Cornelius, you look nice!” Mel grinned at the curly haired slytherin and her good friend’s boyfriend…really, Az was one of her besties….the only person Mel didn’t know yet really was Tallyn, still she adored her dress. It was when she was admiring the dress when she heard the door and watched as Jace walked into the room.

It had felt like decades since she had seen the young Ravenclaw…the fifth teen year old sent the young boy and sent him a small smile from where she stood near the floos…her feet still were moving as she sent Jace the small smile. Now, there she was standing closer to him now…”you look nice, I mean it…I was nervous when I said you looked like a matador” she paused the nerves still in place. ”only the mask is matador-y…would you want to dance with well…me later?” totally not talking anymore.

That was the plan. Stuff food in mouth, find a drink, and maybe talk to a statue something…anything that wouldn’t mind her babbling awkwardness.

When she had first arrived there wasn't all that many people. Then suddenly there was and it was a bit overwhelming. Tallyn shifted a little bit trying to take everything in all at once while not giving away the fact that she was feeling more out of place. Sweatpants, t-shirts and being covered in paint was her style even if she came from money and was used to parties like this.

Azura speaking to her was enough to pull her out of her thoughts and made her smile. "Thank you, Az. It's a bit strange not wearing my usual paint covered clothes," she laughed softly trying to keep the mood light. So Wes was around then? Tal turned her head to look in the direction that Azura had said he was. Spotting him her smile grew and she nodded once to her friends. "Thanks." It was time to join him.

She could see him walking towards her but that didn't stop her from meeting him half-way. Her eyes never once leaving his face until she was at his side and she gave him a once over. "Thanks," she whispered her cheeks going bright pink. "You're not so bad yourself." She was teasing him to get her mind off the fact that she was blushing so badly right now. Tal slipped her fingers between his giving his hand a light squeeze. Just so he remained by her side she would be alright.

Noelle had stayed the night in the manor with Az the night before. So she had tried helping with setting up for the masquerade ball but... she wasnt needed. She had tried nonetheless. She found that if she kept busy, her mind wouldn't wander to places it had no business going.

She'd only just went upstairs to change when she heard people showing up for the party. Merlin's beard. She had to hurry. She wasn't used to dressing to dancy. Her go to clothes were jeans and t-shirts with tennis shoes. Nothing fancy at all. So wearing a dress and heels made her feel very self conscious.

It took longer than she had anticipated for herself to get ready. But alas, Noelle was ready. She wasnt a heel wearer, but Althea had convinced her to get these. Why she had agreed to it, Noelle would never know. Because they were crazy hard to walk in. Especially down the stairs. She probably looked ridiculous.

One she made it safely down the stairs, she headed into the ball room. People were here already. Nervously, Noelle reached up to make sure her hair was in place before stepping more into the room. She waved at every person she walked by and smiled as bright as she could. Once she was by Az, she reached down to pull her shoes off. No way was she wearing those things all night. "Hey gorgeous, look at how many people are already here!"

Now, where was her date?

Were it possible, the boy's jaw would have hit the floor with a loud FLOP! The girl rushing to him simply stole the breath right out of his lungs. Cornelius swiftly caught her, Azura's familiar form pressed into him finally bringing him back.

Wow...just....

How was such exquisite beauty allowed? Was it even legal? It wasn't fair to all the other girls. LOL. Like he cared.

He had the most beautiful girlfriend...

Her words, once again, brought him back to earth. She had spell on him. "'Course I would." Cornelius stepped back and took a proper bow in front of her, his hand seeking hers. His lips pressed softly on her hand. "You look divine." Hot. Really, really hot.

The Baltazar stood back at his full height when he heard his name and shot Mel a two finger salute, accompanied with his trademark dazzling grin. "Right back at yah!" Gorgeous, really. His girlfriend was the highlight, though.

He really needed to stop his mind from wandering whenever he thought or looked at her. She was just so damn beautiful. Everyone be jealous!

This was exciting! Charlotte was especially excited at the chance to dress up and have an actual date with Henry - and they had been having lots of them lately! She arrived with him, holding on to his arm and barely containing herself in excitement. Maybe there would be a chance to sneak away later but for now she was excited to see who would be there and how lovely everyone would look and she was also quite excited to show off her dress. She was tall in the strappy gold heeled sandals she wore too - all leg over here!

They arrived by portkey- her mother had suggested it to make sure the risk of getting floo dust on her dress wouldn't be a problem- and Char looked around excitedly, though she was not particularly arrested by the decor since it was similar to what she was used to and it was the people that mattered to her as always.

"I hope you are ready to dance!" Because she really wanted to!

Henry was actually pretty excited about going to this Masquerade Ball in France. He had never been to one before so he wasn't completely sure what to expect, but it was sure to be a good time, right? Plus, he got to go with Charlotte, and he thought she looked
a m a z i n g in that dress. In fact, he could hardly take his eyes off of her long enough to grab onto the portkey to get them there.

And he didn't mind the chance to dress up himself either. Henry wore what he thought was a very sophisticated tux to the party, and he thought he didn't look half bad in it. And once they arrived, he figured they'd fit right in with the fancy setting and how nice everyone else looked too.

He turned to Char with a grin. "Yeah, of course. I wouldn't miss a chance to dance with you." He probably wasn't the best dancer there, but he wanted to dance with her, and that was what counted the most, right? "Did I tell you yet how beautiful you look?" Probably. But he could say it again. And if he hadn't, it was just because he was a little awe-struck. Because, wow.

And they should probably go say hi to their friends, too. It looked like there were quite a few people there already.

In contrast, Char was surprised that there weren't more people. It was quiet for a ball. Nice though, but if it was her she would have invited the whole of Hogwarts and then some. She couldn't tell who else was there, given the masks, but hopefully there would be some familiar faces soon. She adjusted her own mask and looked up at Henry. He could dance like a complete loon and she wouldn't mind.

"You toooold me." Teehee. He could tell her as much as he liked, but instead of saying so, she tossed her head- not dislodging her updo. "I am more than just my looks, Henry Whittebrook!" Oh she knew that he knew, but it was fun to tease sometimes.

"Let's see who we can find!"

Harriet was really excited for Azura's party. It had been a kind of sad start to the summer, so she was looking forward to just enjoying herself. And she liked dressing up too. She had gone shopping with Noelle, and loved the dress that was wearing. She didn't usually go for for this type, and it wasn't really a ball gown. But she wanted a dress she would wear again, so she was totally find with this one. She had gotten dressed at home, letting her mother to make her hair, before she headed to the party, flooing to Azura's house.

She was really looking forward to seeing everyone, and seeing how everyone was nice and dressed up. Once she was at the party she headed to the ballroom, and beamed as she saw everyone. Oh. it was going to be a good night. The blonde headed towards some people she knew, nudging Noelle as she came to stand by her. "Hey...." She smiled. "You look pretty"

"Well now that you mentioned it..." he said smirking, looking down on the floor and then back to her face, but this time his own expression changed, feigning such amazement "Mel you've grown taller! An overnight growth spurt? What is your secret? Aspiring basketball players wants to know!" Ok jokes are rolling now. The whole princely- stiff upper lip routine could only last for so long.

"Actually if you're having trouble falling over your dress, then you cant blame me if I end up stepping on the hem..." he chuckled as he pretended to step on it then took it back, adding quickly "Of course I'm joking, I'll never purposely step on your dress with my full weight." the benefit of being the grandson of Caroline Schermerhorn-Astor. He's not a complete noob to complicated gowns.

"Death and destru?....oh no no not that kind of vision...." he laughed "I mean you look really pretty Mel." he smiled. He meant that. Having known the brunette for this long, he appreciated the loveliness before him now.

Oh his outfit. He looked down and tugged on his sleeves for a bit "Eh, grandma helped me with this.... " he said as he took his mask off now "Matador eh? I dunno what this mask was about, grandma said its inspired from Phantom of the Opera, and the hat apparently goes with the design of this coat.... frankly i thought I was doing D'Artagnan from Three Musketeers. Still disappointment how I dont have a sword though I mean whuuut."

More people were showing up, and Tenacius gave them a wave hello-- Oh there's his fellow Prefect (Noelle), then there's Char and Henry, then theres Hattie. Everybody looked incredibly amazing. Oh there's Jace too yeah? Once again being all quiet near the wall. He was always the more reserved type isnt it? He waved hello to the Ravenclaw boy as Mel walked over to him. He would also join them too later.... but food first. He is a growing boy, sustenance is a priority.

Olly was not late. Okay, maybe he might have been. But just a little. No one would really notice anyway, right? He found it hard to believe that no one else would be late so he didn't really feel too bad about it. He'd been painting and lost track of the time and then got dressed quickly but apparently hadn't looked good enough so his dads had helped fixed his tie and... the point was he was there now. And he had probably gotten most of the paint off his face but there might be a little still there? Olly flooed to Azura's fancy manor in Paris and straightened the bowtie. He pulled down the masquerade mask and it made him feel like a spy or something. This was already such a cool party and he had just gotten there.

Olly headed through the crowd, searching for Noelle of course but also smiling at anyone familiar. There was Char and Henry. Well he could recognize Char and assumed that was Henry with her. He wiggled his fingers Char in greeting but decided not to get too close to them because he was honestly just a little bit scared of Henry at the moment considering he was one of Remy's best friends. Ahem. Oh, there were Azura and Noelle. He came to a stop by them. "Hello ladies," he said with a grin. "Everybody looks so beautiful tonight."

Juno grinned and bit her bottom lip. She loved making Leon nervous and he quiet obviously was with telltale his neck rub. He was ridiculously adorable as usual. She loved that she could make him speechless just with a dress and some heels.

Juno smiled at Azura, "Thank you!" She chuckled, "It's beautiful isn't it? He did a good job." She smiled and then turned back to Leon, letting Azura greet her guests.

She beamed at Leon, "Thank you...," she leaned in as if to tell a secret and whispered, "...I'm not wearing boots!" She lifted the edge of her sheer skirt and showed him the heels. She grinned ruefully, hoping to get a laugh. Boots were her trademark, but they really looked stupid with this dress. She wrapped her arms around his neck, and said "I'll be looking at you tonight...who cares about anyone else." She gave him a quick peck, and a wink.

Who was this girl telling her man he was immaculate? Why was she being so silly? Juno brushed off the jealous thoughts as quickly as they came on. She had a promise ring to prove that he was hers. Juno smiled at the pretty girl. She would always be known as Esme's sister! She chuckled, "Yep, I am Juno," Then the girl said her name, "Oh you're Mason! Es, has told me about you! It's nice to finally meet you!" She said with a big smile. Esme had mentioned Mason a few times and she seemed to be a really nice person.

So many people were starting to arrive, however, she didn't want to let go of Leon for fear of losing him in the crowd! She was so happy that Azura was having a great turn out for this party! Juno saw Ace right away and waved at him. He looked very handsome tonight! His outfit was awesome!! But he seemed preoccupied with the girl that had come just before Juno did. She didn't blame him...she was gorgeous.

As soon as Esme came through the Floo, she made sure to grab her and pull her over. She knew how worried she was about Olly. He wasn't feeling well at all, and Esme was a worry wort when it came to him. "You look gorgeous, Es!" She had already seen her sister getting ready, but she just had to tell her again how beautiful she was. What are sisters for?

Juno soon saw Noelle, who was looking absolutely gorgeous as usual! She smiled, and touched the younger girl on the arm. "Hey, Noelle!! It's good to see you! You and Az did such a great job setting all this up! You look beautiful!!" Juno gave her a big smile before turning back to Leon.

She smiled up at Leon, "Wanna dance?" She asked with a little smirk?

Wes smiled warmly as Tallyn met him and he rubbed at his neck a bit as she complimented him.. "Yeah? You like it?" He said as he glanced down at her, he slid his fingers in between hers and grinned a bit as he pulled her across the ballroom.. "So would you like to dance? " He asked with a gentle smile down at her. "Or would you like something to eat? I helped make a lot of it.. My grandmother wanted to hire a caterer.. but it turns out Skye, one of Az's Uncles is a chef! So between the two of us..

We got all the good out! And of course Az helped with dessert. " He said with a shake of his head.. "Also.. someone might want to see you.." He pointed to a door way that led out of the ball room, and a little head was peeking around it.. he grinned and made a motion for the little boy to come to him..

Phoenix has been waiting patiently for his chance to enter the ballroom! He wanted to see Tal! And finally he grinned as Wessy motioned him in, and so the small tuxedo's clad 2 and a half year old whooped and sped across the room to where his brother and Tallyn was!

"Wesssyyyy!!! Tallllll!! " The dark haired boy screeched.. running at full tilt like toddlers tended to do.. he slid to a stop though.. his dark purple eyes looking up at Tallyn.. "You look like n'nangel. " The little boy mumbled softly..

Wes had to laugh as Phe spoke to Tal.. "That she does doesn't she?" " He said with a warm grin as he picked up his little brother.

Leon's grey eyes went wide as Juno spoke to him and he looked down as she lifted her dress slightly to see her shoes, and he grinned at her.. "All right, who are you and what have you with with my girlfriend? " He asked her with a grin. "I love the shoes though, they look amazing. " She looked amazing.. it was incredible really.. he smiled down at her and gave her a wink..

"Well. I forgot that anyone else was here. " He said sigh a grin as he looked around at all the people arriving and he smiled at them warmly.. he was happy for the turnout and Cornelius was here.. so of course Az was over the moon.. Cornelius, Jace and Noelle.. yup those were her happy people!

He nodded down at Juno as she spoke,, "Yes! Please let's go dance. " He said with a warm grin as he took her hand and led her out onto the dance floor..

Henry was still sort of looking around at everything and at the people who had already arrived, trying to see if he recognized anyone yet. It was hard for him to tell who people were with the masks, but that was kind of the fun of a masquerade ball, right? Or at least he thought that was the point of it, being his first one and all.

He turned to Char with a grin. "Oh, I know you are. You're quite the catch, Charlotte Kettleburn." And really, she did look amazing and he kind of couldn't help himself from sneaking another look at her.

But eventually he did turn back to the party, leading her further into the room. He did want to try to see who they could find! And maybe guess who everyone was behind the masks!

Henry noticed two boys (Ace and Olly) in particular waving at them. They were both dressed nice... but yeah, he couldn't tell who they were just by appearances. He wondered if they could tell who he was. Maybe.. since he came with Char and he'd figure people knew they were coming together. Maybe people could deduce who they were by clues like that, and he needed to figure out identities by other means. If they really wanted to.

"This mystery is kind of fun," he told Char kind of quietly. "Who do you think that was waving to us?" He tried to think of who he knew might be coming and moved closer to a group of people already there. "Hello, everyone," he greeted them in a slightly mysterious voice. Or at least hello to that particular group.

The moment her hand slid into his and she felt his fingers close around her own, she knew she would be alright. There was complete comfort that came along with holding someone's hand that made even the most challenging things appear to be not so bad. "I do. Black suits you much better then I would have imagined," she replied winking at him playfully. Really though, she did think he looked great.

Tallyn allowed herself to be pulled along the ballroom floor. "I'd love to dance but you know I can never turn down food," she laughed softly. Especially knowing that he had helped to prepare most of it. "Yeah? Well now I most certainly will have to eat because you know I can never turn down your cooking." It was just a matter of what to do first. Eat or dance. "Did she? I'll have to be sure to eat some desserts then too."

"Oh? Who?" Tal asked tilting her head curiously and glancing towards the doorway. Silently she was hoping it was someone really little and absolutely adorable. Sure enough it was and the smile that was on her face then was instant. Quickly she cast her boyfriend a huge grin cause he knew just how much she cared for this kid.

Aaww lookit at him running at them! The kid was the cutest little boy she had ever had the pleasure of knowing. "Hey my little bird!" she smiled reaching out to ruffle his hair. Hearing what Phe said and then Wes' reply made her cheeks go bright pink. "You keep saying sweet things like that I might just have to keep you all for myself," she whispered softly to Phe reaching out to take him from Wesley not caring one bit she was in a dress. "You better watch out Wes, he might just steal me away from you." She laughed jokingly.