If it hadn't been for Gethan and Ullr, Amelia wouldn't have come to the concert. She wasn't too keen on meeting Roman and since his girlfriend was in the band he would be here, 100 %. At least there would be drinks and food. The brunette had no idea what music they were playing but Gethan seemed so excited about it and Ullr's cousin played in the band so they kinda had to be good. Not that she had a problem with any of them, not even Roman's girlfriend. She was just delusional. There was a big chance for the music to be good. How could she say no when Gethan asked her all cutely. Somehow she just couldn't deny him a thing. In addition, bestie duties had to be fulfilled so there was now way the gryffindor would have let her best friend come here alone.

Thinking about that further, it would have been fun to challenge Ullr to find a date really spontaneously. With as much charm as he got that probably wouldn't have been a big deal for him.

Squeezing Gethan's hand, the sixth year entered the room of requirement in her black crop top and red plaid skirt. His hand in hers made her feel comfortable even though so many people were here. It wasn't like she had a problem with crowds but considering she thought about running away a few days ago, being around a lot of students wasn't exactly what she had planned on doing. "Looking real good", she whistled when she looked Jack over. The boy really had a way of making himself stand out in his clothes. Smiling up at the taller dude, she poked his cheek with her nose softly. With both of them here, nothing could hurt her....and if it did she was sure they were strong enough to hold her back. Didn't wanna cause a scene at a concert.

"Yeah okay. But don't leave me a lone for too long." Amelia nodded at Gethan and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. "You seen a cute little blonde called Bella, Jackie?" Was Bella even here??? If so, they had to go find her. Or maybe Cox, where he was Bella was.

As she went to look for a good space for the three off them, her eyes came across Bentley. Sweet, little Bentley. Giving him a nod she made a mental note not to let him drink anything. That wasn't happening again under her watch.

Unfortunately Gethan brought Griffin along with him when he came back to her. Why did he bring his brother? Okay that question was idiotic but the fact that he probably didn't like her at all wasn't very comforting...and the fact that he was right about her being bad for him was even worse. "Yes it is. It's a date." Grin on her face Amelia took Gethan's hand again.


Watching the interaction between Ullr and Griffin, Amelia couldn't help but be a little confused. That wink definitely had to mean something but she wasn't quite sure what. The bestie had to explain her some things after the concert. "Well maybe you can be the candy to his arm Jackie, you'd certainly brighten up his appearance." Even though she really wasn't fond of the dude, Ullr was a big boy and could make his own decision. The brunette would be there to pick up the pieces, no matter what. The things Ullr had done for her....she could never be there enough for him to make up for that.

This was her element, this song had so many emotional attachments, it had gotten her through so much. There was no way she'd ever screw this one up. As she sang out the last word of Echoes she felt so many emotions of the night, the song, the girls with her on the stage. Natalia turned and grabbed her water to take a moment to regroup after that. If nothing else good happened for awhile she was fine because she was getting this moment. A moment she thought about for so many years! Giving each of the girls a smile before turning back to the mic.

"I know most of you know all of us, but I wanted to make sure you did." because these girls needed to be recognized they were so awesome! "Guitar we have Kali Richards, Keyboard we have Kelly Flenagan , Drums the adorable Hadly Lynch, and bass guitar is the fierce Ilia Valke. Speaking of adorable I have to thank the Slytherin Prefect Dot Wojack for picking out our outfits." See Dottie, Natalia kept her word!! Speaking of Dot she was getting a beaming smile. Her eyes moved to the corner of the room where a certain Slytherin boy was again. He was going to just hang there alone all night? Zay should make sure that didn't happen.. okay!

Anyway..

"Our next song is an Ilia inspired song. It's Wolves at the door by Bad Seed Rising." Did they know it, because it was awesome. The girls started and she was so ready! This was just rocking. "Wild eyed, he is dressed to the nines. The moon is hanging above him like a halo on fire
Black hands, he’s out there looking for lambs...." What could make this night better, really?


Henric scream what?


Her eyes moved right to where they shouldn't have and the words left her brain. The music might still be going, but Natalia had noticed who had just walked in and her brain just stopped. NOPE.. NOPE get it together. NIGEL BARRINGTON WAS STANDING RIGHT THERE!!! ALL OF THEM WERE STANDING RIGHT THERE!!!


DANTE!!!!

She turned to try to focus again, CRAP.. CRAP.. SING NAT!!!



"‘Cause wolves are at the door. Don’t let them in cause you know what they came for. Full blown silver tongue." Her voice found her again, but her heart was racing and nerves were fully up. THE DEAD KNEAZLES WERE HERE AND WATCHING HER!! HER!!

DON'T SCREW UP NATALIA GRACE BUROV!

Kali's eyes had been tightly shut. She could hear the crowd and the more she heard, the more nervous she got. She figured if she kept her eyes closed, she wouldn't feel faint from all the people. Seriously.... THERE WERE SO MANY PEOPLE!

Kali's head began to bob to the music as her fingers moved over the guitar. They were callused from all the hard work she had put into practice. It made playing easier. Her mouth went into a grin as she heard them playing. The Sirens!! And the noise from the crowd seemed encouraging. She almost giggled at Henric and others yelling for them... Well, for their people on stage. It wouldn't hurt to just peek right?

Opening one eye, Kali moved to the music but peered around at the crowd. Wow. So many people. They were really doing this. Oh!! Look!! Brooklyn was here. Confidence spring from just that little fact alone. And Lana!! were here!! Both of Kali's eyes opened now. She was smiling brightly. She began moving more to the music. Getting comfortable. She looked at her band mates. They were a good looking all female wrock group!!

Looking back to the crowd, Kali's heart stopped..... Was that?? It was... No way....TDK!!!! They were here!!! Kali froze on stage, her mouth dropping. Her hands were on automatic as she stared. No. Way.

Nat must have noticed too because she had stopped signing. What brought Kali back to life was her voice. It had started singing again. She needed to start playing again... Playing like she loved it. Which she did. Kali started playing her heart out. Wanting more to impress them than worrying about her nerves.

She just couldn't believe her eyes.... TDK!!!!

Vesper....hadn't done this in a long time. A very, VERY long time. OVER FOUR YEARS, but when you were romantically linked to someone like Charlie Black, casual concert outings became impossible. His wrockstar persona was hard to live with, but Ves had been there through it; staying in the public eye when her own life had spun dangerously out of control. When you had to deal with things openly, you hardened yourself to said things.

Needless to say, she was different. Changed. Stronger. And she had West and Ascanius to thank for that. And sorta Nigel. Mostly the other two, though. They legit were the only reason she was alive.

....which was why she was here. Even after parting from TDK (officially), she'd continued to receive fanmail from her time with the group. Anyone who knew them understood that their fans would always be very important to them. Even if Ascanius liked to act as if he were too cool for all that. Seriously. Slytherin boys. This never changed. They would always be an insufferable breed of male, with their persistence and what have you. Again, another reason she was here. Arriving WITH them, no less. Would it send a message? Would things be assumed?

She'd hung back a little, taking in the scene; eyes wet as she listened to hers and Ascanius' song being performed by this all girl group. It provoked some interesting emotions. Pride? Happiness? Heartbreak? Glancing at Scan, who was now talking with a kindly looking older gentleman (along with the others)...Ves slipped away to get a better look at the stage.

She missed being up there sometimes.

Well Well Well it if isn't Toilet Paper Boy looking more grown up then Dante previously remembered. "Hi there Toilet Paper Boy. Did not think you would be here. Too busy being a ladies man" Maybe because he did not care. Where was his girlfriend or where they just friends. One piece of gossip he did not know. What was going on between him and that red head Alice. Dante got a drink and looked around at who else was here and saw one of Eureka's cousins. Now two and both were in his house. Fun times. And there was the red head. Well look like you have someone to go see Phillip. Have fun.

He saw that Kelly. Of course he would be here not like he would miss this. Plus most of the group was slytherins and could annoy him relentlessly in the common room. And that was not fun.He smiled at her raised his right hand and gave her a colorful gesture.

The band was not bad once they started playing. He never had high expectations so he was pleasantly surprised by how good they were. He immediately recognized the TDK cover and they did a pretty good job at it. He was enjoying listening to them until he heard Henric yell that TDK was here.

Seriously...Seriously??

Dante turned towards the door and yep there they were all three current and one past member surprising enough. Look at Professor Paul now that was amusing. He was still in shock they were here in the castle. This is not like a concert out in the wizarding world that they showed up after the show. Well Nat would be happy that was for sure. He would try and talk to them After everyone else is done with autographs.

Professor Paul, Please.

As Nat introduced them, Ilia wiggled her fingers at the crowd and blew a kiss once her prefered name was said. Yes she was fierce, and proud. Here with her girls on stage was where she belonged.....when she wasn't with Henric anyways.

She might also be a bit beamy as they played one of the songs she enjoyed most. Hearing Nat say her name never got old. Her fingers teased the strings and started in. Now this song she really strutted and danced. Her voice tuned in louder and she stayed close to Nat, chiming in. Yes, this one she really directed at you Roman.... "Wild eyed, he is dressed to the nines. The moon is hanging above him like a halo on fire. Black hands, he’s out there looking for lambs....."

Why was Nat pausing? She didn't stop, but she let her eyes follow Nat's while she played. " You better lock up the mansion and baby throw away the key!" That was why....wrock stars....her favorite wrock stars. No freezing allowed! They owned this stage darn it! She was going to show them what she was made of and play harder, not stop.


There was her Nat, back again. Come on ladies! Her voice was still calm and sassy as she drew music from the strings. "‘Cause wolves are at the door. Don’t let them in cause you know what they came for. Full blown silver tongue. Keep one eye open.... She danced against Nat a bit to try and bring her back to the stage. Laying her back against Nat's and her head against her as she sang with her. These lyrics were to you Nat. "Oh what an innocent child, what a beautiful prey, when those wolves come around you better keep them away...." They were Sirens, hear their song...

Crap. She was really hoping that her dear brother had gotten lost on the way up here or wasn't going to me allowed inside for the concert. But Nope he was here she would just have to get over him being here too. If he would leave her and her friends alone she would leave him alone. Fair right? Haha no she was going to the annoying little sister here, and all day everyday. Hehe

Be prepared, Philly Willy, be prepared!

Katerina was now eyeing her older brother. WAS THAT DROOL? What was he staring at? Boys were totally ridiculous over merlin knows what. She giggled at the look on his face. Weirdo. She eyed him slightly at his appearance. "You're too slow, I've got things to do and people to see." And she didn't need him butting in or slowing her down.

Bye brother.

Who else was here now? She turned around when she heard a greeting. It was Katherine Toussaint. How awesomely cool was that? She smiled at her friend. "Katy! Hi hey. What are you doing here?"[/b] That was semi obvious the same or one of the same reasons why the others were here. But Kathuerine was here with a plate of sandwiches. Good looking sandwiches. "Who are those sandwiches for?" You know, asking for a friend and stuff.

Fifteen minutes????? OH MY MERLIN. Katerina couldn't wait! It still amused her that professors were here too. You know who the hip cool professors were now didn't you? Kat laughed at Benton's comment to Myers, and back at his. "Well I think its cool that professors came. It shows that they care about students extra activities."

Kat wanted a butterbeer, so she slipped away to the food table, just before the band started and grabbed a bottle. She smiled back at Henry it was cool that he was there too. Beads? Cool. "I'll take some. Do you dance Henry?" She asked with a shy little giggle. Totally forgetting that he brother dearest was around somewhere. But If Henry did dance, she might ask him. Maybe. She grinned over to Noelle.

"Do you dance, Noelle?" Maybe they could dance and Henry join them. You know to make things not so awkward, because Kat was awkward especially with boys, well boys that she might like more than friends.

OH MY GOSH!!!!!! Was that TDK? IS THIS THE REAL LIFE? or just fantasy .........

Hugo was hesitant to whether go or not to The Sirens concert but of course he went because of Nat and Hady and Kali. He couldn't say the same for Kelly and Illia especially knowing that the latter hated him and Kelly, well, he haven't had much interaction with her.

And there he was. Late. Kind of. BUT AT LEAST HE WAS HERE OKAY?

He scanned the room, there was a LOT of people here and that was great. He moved around and grabbed something to drink. Since when has he been this anti-social? The last time was before he started to go to a muggle school and then things changed. He took a sip from his drink and watched as Nat sang, she definitely was good and looked very pretty.

Rula noticed the look Max gave her, and she offered a reassuring smile. "I don't feel like I have to. Don't feel like you have to either." She wouldn't hold it against him.

Apparently Bast was pretty encouraging about it too though, what with not only claiming TWO dances now, but also claiming one with Max too. Hehehehe. "Are you going to be dancing with everyone tonight, Bastien?" It was kind of funny to imagine, actually, Bast dancing with every person at the party. Especially people he didn't seem to like, like Griffin.

Speaking of which.

He was right there at the food table and near them now. "Oh, yeah, we met when we were at Durmstrang." And it was nice to have a fellow former Durmie at Hogwarts since Bast DITCHED her (yes, she would continue to think this for a LONG TIME OKAY).

Ohh, cookies were a good idea. Maybe just one though. For now. That'd be a nice, light kind of snack for now...

Text Cut: Henric & West

Quote:

Originally Posted by Symphora

Woah... all of this excitement and shouting, made his throat suddenly parched. Maybe he should get himself a drink soon but he couldn't leave now! The next song was coming up! No way, Nat was going to sing...Echoes by TDK?! Alright! He had all their songs in his music playlist. Oh man...if only TDK was here to watch The Sirens perform their song! But..narh...there was no way they would be here? Why would they? A famous wrock band making their appearance at Hogwarts? What. Pfft. Henric blinked again. "Wait....is that....WHAAAAT...NO BLOODY WAY?! IS THAT WEST ODESSA OVER THERE!"he shouted in disbelief. His inner fanboy raged. TDK IS HERE PEOPLE.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz

He had been invited. They had been invited. He wasn't alone and he had got permission from the interim Headmaster to be here. Seemed like the thing to do because as Ascanius had been grumbling about, it was going to be a whole bunch of teenagers and they didn't roll that way.

Their girlfriends, collectively, would kill them if they rolled that way.

But West was always appreciative of two things: 1) fans, and 2) fellow musicians, so after the letter had come, he'd insisted that this was happening.

The tall former Slytherin walked in first, in what was a toned down version of his usual flashy attire, all in black though still with plenty of appropriately rockstar bling. The goal was not to pull focus, he was respectful of other musicians in that way. Or tried to be to the best of his abilities but it was hard when you tended to be noticed everywhere you--was that Echoes?? It was! How fitting, given who else had come with them. Right behind him, in fact.

He stopped short in the doorway and smirked. See, Ascanius? They were real fans, this was the way it needed to be. They got here just as one of their own songs was covered, like fate or something.

Not that it was just him and Ascanius, a fact that he was sure the press would find very interesting once they got wind of it.

Anyway, they had some music to listen to and appreciate. And thankfully it seemed like all their former professors had moved on from Hogwarts so there wouldn't be any awkward reunions.... not unless Flammy and his rock planned to come along, or y'know, his former Head of House.

Maybe they needed to find a wall to lean against, somewhere they could potentially escape notice.

Wait.

HEAD BOY SAY WHAT?!?!

WEST ODESSA?!?!

Rula stopped herself in mid-reach for a cookie and turned around to get a look at who'd just come through the entrance.

AND IT WAS TRUE!!

Prince West was here!!! And there was Dante's brother Nigel and Ascanius and - was that Vesper too?!? How cool!

But West!!!

"Let's go say hi!" She said to Max and Griffin, and in her excitement she released her hold on Max's hand as she hurried toward her friend. Family friend. Same thing.

"West!"

Zeke was smart enough to know he had a good thing with Maggie. And despite discussions of taking her for granted coming up - something which still had him confused - he knew better than to do such things. He liked the dress, he loved it all.

It looked as though the girls were having fun up there, so he was both happy and relieved for Hady - knowing the stress she'd been feeling about things. Seeing Ilia's wink though had him chuckling lightly under his breath. The dragon girl looked at home on the stage, that he was sure of.

Maggie's kiss was more than enough to capture his attention again, and with a wide grin he first leaned in to press his lips against hers before pulling her a little enthusiastically through the crowd, weaving their way through until they were further at the front. "It's weird seeing people here," he half yelled over the noise. Of course, he didn't mean people people... he meant the fact that it seemed there were people here that didn't actually attend the school - to his knowlege. Strange faces.

As perceptive as he often was... some things did escape his notice.

....

Nigel Barrington?

Head turning, Zeke peered in the same direction as Maggie.

Huh... who'd have thought...

"I guess?" Yes? Like... he wasn't daft, he knew who The Dead Kneazles were. That other guys was part of it too, no? He'd have said as much but couldn't recall the dudes name.

The wink wouldn't have had Maggie chuckling. Luckily she missed it.

The kiss was very much appreciated and definitely lifted her spirits immensely. Not that they were down exactly but you know. Things and stuff. Overthinking was a thing. But hey, band, Hady, oh...and there was Hugo too. Why was Brooklyn nowhere near where he was? Maybe she HAD listened to Maggie's advice and was playing hard to get or something. Yes. That had to be it.

Letting Zeke drag her through the crowd Maggie made sure nobody spilled any of their drinks on her. Like, she would've probably hexed anyone who'd ruined her hair right now. And yes, that INCLUDED professors. Speaking of people....after thinking over Zeke's words in her head for a few seconds Maggie came to the conclusion that he must have missed some of his sentence what with the noise and everything. Because honestly, otherwise his words didn't make a whole lot of sense. "WHAT?" She shouted back.

Although her attention was soon elsewhere. Looking for Dante in the crowd. Had he known that his brother was coming? Once she'd found him she tried to get his attention long enough to give him a questioning look.

He would've said something right?

What did Finch dislike even more than teenagers who had to ruin everyone's wholesome fun with their trouble-making? When said teenagers also thought they were being cute by lying to his face and pretending to be clueless. Anlsey frowned at Timila as she tried that very stunt. She wasn't that dumb to think that would actually work?

"Actually, I'm talking about what you poured in all the drinks that I've now vanished. Oh, except for this one," he said, his hand still curled around the cup that he had held onto. "You have exactly one chance to explain yourself and I suggest being honest this time. Maybe your punishment will be less severe." And no, he had no questions for Mr. Behrmann. Ansley had already witnessed Timila spiking the drinks. As far as he was concerned, the boy did nothing wrong.

He glanced at Kay as she joined them. "Well, Miss Kyle took it upon herself to add something to the drinks," he explained as she asked about the situation. "And now she's just about to explain what it was and why." His tone should tell his colleague that he was quite annoyed with the entire situation, especially as he was certain that what she put in the drinks was not harmless given her suspicious behavior and the fact that she wouldn't readily admit it

Was Maddie a good dancer? Well, she wasn't as good as Dot and Kyroh and she wasn't as bad as her brother, Benny. Good news for Alexander, though she wasn't kidding about the toes thing. She simply smiled in reply, more so when he said he could be easily convinced. "I know but it's polite to ask." Just saying.

Being the observant claw that she was, it didn't take the seventh year long at all to notice the arrival of The Dead Kneazles and no, she was not going to fangirl. She'd been a fan forever by now and she'd even been a VIP thanks to Mr. Hair himself, Nigel Barrington. There was also the small fact that Dora and Ascanius were a thing and had Octavia, one of the only small humans she genuinely enjoyed. So no, no fangirling. More like giving a half wave to Nigel and wondering what a big time band like them were doing here. Perhaps they were out of material and were going to soak up the teen angst and romance floating around the room. Seemed legit to her. "You know, Dima lit Ascanius on fire in our first year when we snuck into Ancient Runes. It was awesome." Good times.




Okay, so now there were two professors involved and as much as he knew Tim didn't seem concerned, he really didn't want her to get detention. Stepping a bit closer to her, he willed the blonde to tell the truth, with a bit on how her work was really educational as it was brewing potions and taking notes, just like they did in the lab. Testing on fellow students was practically the norm now!

Feeling a bit nervous, the Hufflepuff chanced a glance around the room and that's when he saw who had come to watch the girls perform.

Merlin's Pajamas, was that Vesper Bayliss? Her voice was just...well, it was beautiful. Oh gosh, okay, he was blushing. Look AWAY, Conrad. Look AWAY.

Hadley rolled her eyes at her best friend. A frequent gesture that was getting to be more and more frequent. "Nope. You have to dance. And I mean really dance." She looked Freckles squarely in the eyes. "Or I go back to our dorm and sulk." Your move Peaches-and-Cream.

While she waited for Rachel to make her choice, already knowing which way she'll go, Hadley started to dance to the music herself; bobbing and swaying and occasionally spinning to the beat. Hads shook her head as she did. "Nope, never." She glanced over at Rachel, seeing that she's was swaying a little to the music. It was a start, but, "Not good enough. Really dance."

Miranda walked into the concert and was blown away by the music. That Natalia girl could really belt it and the rest of the group was pretty good too. She had seen the flyers all over the place and it took alot of begging but Randi's father finally said she could go and check it out. and Merlin was she stoked that she was allowed to go. Little did she know, her father was right outside the venue making sure she didn't get into any trouble. She was a bit young to go by herself , but her parents did understand that she needed her independence .
So, Anyway, She made her way through most of the crowd when she couldn't go any further. So, figuring this spot was good enough she turned to watch the show.

Standing by herself wasn’t generally something that bothered Brooklyn, aside from the fact she was completely aware that there were at least two people in the room who seemed determined to remedy that. As if she was completely incapable of controlling her own life. It was annoying at best, but that was why she was listening to the girls play. It was a distraction, one that helped her pretend that she wasn’t dealing with a dorm mate who had crazy ideas that she should act differently from how she usually did. But then, that was Maggie. Brooklyn had managed to make friends all on her own without acting like someone other than herself. There were several in the room watching, or performing. She’d caught the smile that Kelly had sent her, and the reaction from Kali. If anything, it showed professionalism that they didn’t let it break character.
As she saw Hugo come into the room, she had become aware of Maggie’s attention yet again and nearly rolled her eyes. The idea of actually entertaining the blonde’s idea was not going to be considered in any fashion, and honestly, Brooklyn was rather grateful for the presence of the actual professional/famous wrock band members since it created a distraction. Preferably, it would keep both Maggie and Dante out of her hair for a while.

Waiting until she saw the look Maggie had given Dante, obviously regarding the appearance of his brother, Brooklyn had walked over to where Hugo was standing. “They sound really good, don’t they?,” she asked simply, giving him a glance. Conversation didn’t hurt. It wasn’t as if she actually needed permission, and he was allowed to disregard her if he liked. She wouldn’t let it get to her.

The band was amazing!! Noelle whistled at Hady, her big sister, as she played on stage. The other girls were good too but Hady was like a star up there. She was impressed and proud of her.

Turning her attention back to the people around her, Noelle grinned. Kat!! She was awesome. They had turned into foxes together. Fun stuff there. And she was offering to dance. Heck yes!! Noelle could pretend she knew how to dance well. She didn't... But then again, she didn't really care if she couldn't. She tried and she had fun doing it! "Sure Kat! I'll dance. Henry, you up to dancing with us?" Because Kat seemed to want him to dance and she didn't want to leave him out... Or anyone. "Anyone else want to..." Noelle didn't finish because a shout had her looking and she saw TDK.

T.
D.
K.
The Dead Kneazles.

They were here.
Noelles mouth opened. No way. She had a poster of them in her dorm. Maybe she could sneak out and get it and have them sign it. What were they doing here?? At a concert for Hogwartians??

Mr. Barrington???

Did this man who looked to be as old as his father the real Mr. Barrington just call him Mr. Barrington. It was a little shocking since even at work he did not get called that. Why couldn't he just go through the crowd like Vesper. Yes we see you sneaking away. Lucky. He even though of wearing a terrible disguise before coming here. But he was running late and well did not have time. Also the fact that Dante has a favorite professor cracked Nigel up. He was fine with signing the man's parchment. At least he was signing something normal this time and why was he whispering. He looked over to Scan and West and said.

"I'm fine signing it"

Though he was not really here for signing autographs. Mostly just here because one West Odessa.

---------------------------------------------


Dante was going to hear it later. From multiple people. which was going to be fun. Though since he knew absolutely nothing about TDK coming here. He was just going to act like he did. Since well only four people knew the truth and the odds of them talking were relatively low.

Also was that Hugo and Brooklyn?

Well looks like he did not even need to do anything this time. Well done both of you and no it wont keep Dante distracted since he was used to them since well its been a while now. He needed something more to eat to spy on them effectively.

Also he need to find Eureka and get her to Nigel. Since well he was sure some crushes never die completely.

"Yeah, Durmstrang, like Rula said." Max agreed, giving a friendly smile to Griffin. He then looked at Bastien and explained, "Griffin is into skating," So that was how Max knew him.... he couldn't speak for Rula though, but she obviously did know him.

He followed Griffin's gaze to the cookies and nodded.

"Yeah? Probably I can get away with one." But actually probably the best choice for him was the sandwiches that Bast's baby sister had brought along. But one cookie couldn't hurt and Rula usually encouraged him to indulge so she'd probably be all for it. He gave her a quick smile over this dancing thing.

"Oh, no! I mean, I want to. Dance. With you I mean. I just don't want you to think like you have to dance with me. If you want to dance with other people." Stop talking, Maxwell Irvine Van Hutton!

Wait, what was that Bastien? It did take a moment for Max to realise the blond boy was kidding. His eyes went big and he stared at his Toussaint friend. Oh. A joke?

"Oh," he laughed awkwardly, "Yeah. Yeah a dance. I should just dance with everyone. You too, Griffin." He said to the Gryffindor boy. See? Great joker over here. Max was cool. Definitely cool. Not awkward at all.

Cough.

Back later? He looked where Bastien was looking, towards the girl with all the hair and the sour face, and nodded. Okay. Later.

And then next thing he knew, Rula had let go of his hand and was rushing off to say hi to.... um.... Max looked around in confusion, noting the reactions of people nearby. TDK? Wait, weren't they a proper band? Max didn't listen to their music or anything, or know anything about it (though maybe he should since apparently it was a big deal?) but, well....

.... he'd just been ditched for a rockstar, basically. He shot a little uncertain look at Griffin.

Please don't laugh.

_______________________________________________
_______________________________________________




He would let Vesper to it, knowing instinctively that she would slip off, but hoping that she would enjoy herself and that it would help with everything. It meant a lot to him that she was here even if it wasn't for him, even if it was for these kids.

Taking up a position next to Nigel, he looked at Ascanius and smirked. Really? They could still leave?

"Not a chance."



Well that lasted all of six seconds before he was recognized. West had TRIED to be as low key as possible, honest! No loud colours, no animal print, no glitter or sequins, and yet? That was his name being yelled. He turned his head slightly towards the kid who had essentially announced his entry (Henric) and gave him a casual salute.

Yeah. West Odessa. That was him.

And now some old guy... a professor West didn't know? Was asking for autographs. And Nigel was agreeing. West didn't mind either, only...

"Maybe I can sign it for you after the performance?" He suggested, smiling a bit. He was here for that purpose after all, for the performance, not for the autographing. Even if he didn't mind the second part. And wait a second..... this guy looked familiar. West's eyes narrowed a little as he tried to puzzle it out...

.........

....

"Wait a minute, aren't you a musician?"





West looked around for Dante, given this professor guy had mentioned Nigel's kid brother, and spotted him looking over their way. He gave the Slytherin a 'sup' nod.

He'd always thought Dante was lucky he'd ended up in the best house, and not followed in his brother's footsteps.

And then he heard his name AGAIN but this time it was a recognizable voice. A baby!Botros voice, and West beamed, lighting up. From age fourteen he'd spent every Easter staying with the former headmaster's family in Egypt, so he'd met all of the old man's grandchildren and since West loved kids, he'd been all about it. Most of them he'd seen grow up from basically diapers.

"Rula! You've grown a whole lot, almost as tall as me huh?" Hardly. He grinned at her and waggled his eyebrows then went in for a hug, all wrockstar swagger dropped and regular West at the forefront. Was Eureka here? Because he'd hug her too, unless she was too cool for him in her old age.



But this, this is what West Odessa was here for. To support an emerging band, to encourage a passion for music. And because one of them, the singer, had written expressly. He focused his attention on the stage and tipped his head to one side, listening, cataloging.

It was easy to tell to his practiced ear that they were new at this. Not because they were bad, but because they were unpolished. There was passion there though, real enjoyment. The drummer could do with letting go a bit, he thought, and shot a little look towards Ascanius, wondering what he thought. Mostly he thought that they could all learn a lot from Vesper. Recalling how she had been at first, less sure, more self-conscious, and then how finally, she had let go and become herself -more than herself- on stage. Never mind what had come after all of that, West had had a front row seat to his friend's metamorphosis as a performer.... and these girls, they were still in that cocoon stage.

And if their cocoon was this good? Well, they had potential, that was for sure.

His eyes fell on the guitarist next, watching her closely.

Ascanius snorted in West's direction giving off wildly unpleasant vibes. That was kind of his thing, y'know. His brand. Their manager said he was frustrating and he liked to capitalise on that kind of image consulting because she was doing that and not insulting him. He had way too pretty of a face to insult. Fact.

The drummer shoved his hands in his pockets and tuned in to the music on stage. He was really proud of the drum part in their songs. They were really, really, spectacularly hard to play. He loved listening to covers of their stuff. People always messed it up. And it gave him a sick sense of joy. Like play monkeys, play...try and keep up with the guitar....if you can.

So far, though, this girl was keeping up. Not as clean, precise as he would have liked but he wasn't even close to the drummer he was now at their age. Musicians grow. And this chick had a base level of talent that had promise.

Maybe, if they stuck around/weren't mobbed by screaming teenage girls and professors, he would talk to her after. 'Bout drummer stuff.

HE WASN'T SAYING HE WAS INTO THIS DUMB CONCERT, ODESSA. The thoughts didn't have to be related: wanting to foster young talent and enjoying the show were not mutually exclusive.

When the professor wandered over like a dog begging for scraps at the table Scan, somehow, became more unpleasant. He hoped it would repel fans. They were in an enclosed space. He didn't trust it. "Mate," Scan smirked, "so not smooth. Like at all." Oh, sorry. Were West and Nigel being gracious?

And he started to hear the whispers. People knew they were here. THEY SHOULD HAVE DUCKED WHEN HE SAID SO.

_________________________________

Chloe noticed BENTON and did nothing about it. She almost waved but she did not want to encourage boys. They were as dumb as pack mules. No need to encourage any behaviour.

She clocked CHAR once more and gave her a look. One that said oh-we-are-soooooooo-gonna-talk-later because she needed to know everything. Mostly who did her makeup. Her eyeliner was really nice.

What was NOT nice was neanderthal BASTIEN coming to ruin her life. That was not an exaggeration. He was manhandling her. And she was very picky about her space and who she allowed in it. Stealing hugs were going to earn him water in the face. And she had done it before.

To him.

Test her, Bast. Go ahead.

She glaaaaaaared at his stupid face once he put her down. No words for him. She didn't need them. This look was for the lack of letters and general friendness that he had exhibited since going back to his frozen tundra of a prison. Durmstrang. What a stupid name.

AND THEN HE WAS TAKING HER HAND. "I swear to MERLIN, Bastien," she muttered. Not only was he taking her hand, oh no, he was dragging her like a rag doll over to Char.

Once they were in place she drew her wand and blew his hat off his head with a gust of wind. Jerk.

She missed him loads.

He glanced toward the stage, "Yeah, I don't know any of them." Well he knew Kelly from his brother, but that was it and it wasn't very well. "Do you know them?" He figured being older and a prefect he would know most of the people. He picked up another cookie before looking around. "Nice crowd for them though, do they play often."



This was... awkward and not where Griffin wanted to be. AT ALL! He wasn't a fan of the drama vibe that these three had. He knew his brother liked her and he knew Ullr liked her, it was very rude of Amelia to string them both along and possibly hurt his brother. He just looked at them all. "If this is a date, why is he right here to?" He'd ask the question, he didn't care if it was awkward or not. His eyes moved back to the band and then to the screaming of other bands here.

What?

He looked around. He wasn't familiar with the band, but why would a real band be here for a kid band? It was strange at least he thought. Maybe this was a good time for him just to leave. This was just weird and he was just ready to go to bed.



He looked at Kat kind of strange as she said it was cool professors were there. She was sucking up, right? That was the only reason someone said being with professor was cool. It had to be the only reason people ever said a professor was cool. He liked the professors, but they were old, not cool. "So you liking the band so far?" Change the subject, yes.



Were they here together or not was the main thing Griffin was wondering. He glanced at the other boy that was with them and back to Rula. "Oh that's cool. It's always nice to know people when you are new." No one came from Cali so he didn't know anyone but Geth, which was okay because he had been meeting others. "Are you having fun?" They were taking about dancing and Max said about him dancing, "With you?" He might have blushed a bit before he realized what he said, "I mean yeah.. yeah I could probably dance too." He hadn't met with him, but he'd like to dance with Rula or Max or both. AHEM...

"Do you guys know any of the girls?"

He had just asked when she was distracted by that other band that had showed up. He watched her leave and then looked at the other two a little surprised, "She knows them?" People actually knew celebrities here? No one knew them at his other school.

He made eye contact with Max and wasn't sure if the look was upset or not.. "She'll probably be right back."


.................................................. .....


This was unreal, she was singing in front of TDK wait until she told Joe! This was the best moment of her life and she couldn't help but feel the energy come back once the nerves got pushed away. Dancing around with Ilia she felt she knew she owned the stage. It was something she dreamed about for as long as she could remember. As they finished Wolves at the door she gave Ilia a wing before looking out at the crowd again.

"Ready for another one?" She beamed hoping they were. She felt like she could do this all night. Her eyes went to the corner again before landing on Dante, yes Dante she was looking at you!

Anyway, back to the music, yes. "Okay this next one was from our gorgeous drummer, but fits very well with our style." Not that they had one style. She loved the uniqueness about them. "This is Right Kind of Wrong by Leann Rimes." Yes it was an older country song, but they could rock it out pretty well. She grinned towards the girls and held the mic with one hand. There was going to be dancing around, because it was just that fun.


Kelly it the keyboard and she grinned, "Know all about about your reputation and how it's bound to be a heartbreak situation, but I can't help it if I'm helpless. Every time that I'm where you are." She let the music go through her and she looked around the group of students and professors. She was trying not to let her eyes fall on a certain group of guys that were watching. She could stare at them in a bit, yes, right now it was time to sing. "Loving you, really isn't something I should do. I shouldn't wanna spend my time with you. Well I should try to be strong, but baby you're the right kind of wrong. Ya, baby you're the right kind of wrong."

Her eyes fell on Vesper, VESPER WAS WATCHING HER!!!! AJKDFL;AJDKL;AFJDK;SALFJKAL;SFJKAS;L


Nope she was staying cool, yep she was not missing a beat to this song!

Kelly was enjoying this so much everything about this felt right. he crowd seemed to like them as well. If only Bastien could see her up on stage, now that would be perfect. She was quite proud of herself, there was no way to lie about it. A couple of moths ago the blonde wouldn't have imagined herself performing in front of what seemed to be half the school. Rocking out to Nat's voice her fingers hit the keys like they had never done anything else. The hard practice was really paying off.

And then her eyes fell on Dante again. What was he doing there, being his usual weird self? That's why she liked him and had adopted him, they were sorta weird. Like both of them....even though he was the laziest butt she had ever seen. But it was fun to annoy him about it. Giving him a wink the Slytherin shook her head a little. Ridiculous big brother.

But...where had Rula and Max gone? Did they leave? Now that would be a bummer....hopefully they were just at the back to get some food and drinks because no matter how hard she tried to find them, they were out of sight.

As Nat introduced them the blonde gave everyone a wave. Thankful that her bestie didn't introduce her as the "odd" one. Or plant girl. Snort. No one would get that anyway. Grinning at her band mates Kelly couldn't have been much happier, this was going better than she could have ever imagined.

Next up was Ilia's fave song. A little giggle escpaing her, she winked at her friend and started running her fingers over the keys. The rave Ilia got in when this song was on was just adorable. It was great what music could do to people. Probably one of the reasons why she was in a band in the first place. Kelly wanted to make people feel something.

But then....Nat stoppped....

Why did Nat stop?! What was happening?! All caught up in the song they were playing, she hadn't noticed Henric screaming. Blinking slightly Kelly looked to Kali and then to Nat.. The break only lasted a couple of seconds thankfully and the Slytherin shook it off....

Until...



OH HOLY MOLY!

Was that Nigel Barrington in the flesh?! Jesus, no wonder Nat had stopped singing.....and there were West and Ascanius....EVEN VESPER WAS HERE. How did they get here?! How did they even know about their existence? This was huge. Searching the crowd again she shot Dante a look that said : "You jerk!" She had some serious talking to do. How had he not told her about this before? He surely had something to do with this, being the little brother of Nigel and stuff. He was soooo gonna be strangled later. Not cool Barrington Junior....not cool...

Okay to be honest it was really cool.


Now every move counted even more. Kelly took a deep breath and closed her eyes for a couple of seconds, her focus purely on the song and the emotions she wanted to transport.

As she played her eyes slowly strayed over the crowd taking in those that were there. Whether they were all there to enjoy the music or support the band didn't matter much to her. The fact that sooo many of them had come and were staying was what counted. Not just her but the whole band was getting their names out there and making themselves known if only just to the school. It was a really large step forward for them then just playing for themselves.

Hady was getting herself more into the song as it went on paying attention to nothing much more then her drumming. Keeping in time with the sounds of the guitar and Nat's singing the drummer instantly took notice to Nat's pause in singing for the briefest moment as well some drops in the song. What was going on? Nat keep going!!! It was great the Ilia was so close to the other girl and was able to get her right back on track and so quickly. Her eyes scanned over the crowd though to see if she could figure out what had happened. It took just a brief moment for her to find out what. All she had to do was follow where the rest of the band was looking to and where several people of the crowd were all flocking to now.

West Odessa was here. Nigel Barrington. Ascanius and Vesper. TDK. How? Why? No way?! TDK was here! Of course Hady knew who they were, she wasn't stupid and she knew all their songs as well as was able to play the songs also, thanks Nat for that one there. Was this the work of Dante or had a professional true band came to see them because of the note Nat had wrote them? Either way they were here and it was epic!

By the time she had fully noticed and it had sunk in to her who they were playing for now 'Echos' had ended. She watched as Nat went on to introduce their next song. One she had added to the playlist herself. A song she had forgotten about honestly. Which was stupid of her since they had been practicing for weeks. The song wasn't entirely on point with her life right then but yet at the same time a lot of the lyrics were fitting.

Sending their singing a grin and a wink Hadleigh shifted on the stool spinning one of the drum sticks between her fingers. She was ready. All in. This was one of her picks and she was going to rock it like she owned it. From the first note the brunette played at her drums and symbols like her life depended on it. Each move she made was more fluid, relaxed even the grin on her lips was much more her. Long brunette hair falling around her face she nodded her head to the beat, hazel eyes shinning with excitement now even as they fell upon Frankie. It lasted a split second and then she was moving on watching the faces of some of the crowd before she completely slipped away to the music not even thinking about her drumming.



Gethan grinned a bit at Amelia passing her a cup of punch, keeping one for himself and yes he was even fair and got one for Ullr passing him the cup. With his once free hand now hold that of Amelia's once again he looked back to his brother taking notice of the very uncomfortable look on his face. We don't blame you there Griff, it was an all around not so comfortable situation. At least to him. How the other two felt about it was on them but for the sake of his 'dates' happiness he was keeping his mouth shut.

At least he was trying to. Sparing a quick wink at Amelia when she said it was indeed a date he had to admit he was happy with that. Sort of. Maybe if the twin didn't have to go and ask that. Wrinkling his nose Geth cast a look at the girl beside him and then to Ullr. Yeah, he wasn't even going to answer that. There were no words right now, at least not any that wouldn't start a problem if he were to say them. For the moment he'd watch the band play not even caring an ounce about whoever TDK was or whatever people were yelling about around them.

For the love of Ariel's obsession with humans! Rachel gave her best friend a pout. "What a best friend you are, Hadleigh Denaker, forcing me to dance. Whatever next? Are you going to ask me to head bang?'' Rachel giggled. Head banging was something she would flat out refuse to do. She continued swaying, not quite ready to commence the expected dancing; she was stalling for the moment.

"I think I have an album of them at least. I'll loan it to you.'' With this talk, Rachel was also hoping to distract Haddie but she knew better that the tactic would work. With a sigh, the brown haired girl began awkwardly moving to the music. 'Really dancing' as Haddie put it. What she was really doing was copying her friend's movements. "You are not allowed to sulk now.''

Kay raised a perfectly plucked eyebrow. It was an act of absoloute surprise since she rarely heard Ansley used the tone he was using right now in all the years she knew him. His explanation brought things in perspective. Her attention turned to Timila, her usual twinkling eyes suddenly stern. "Yes, kindly explain yourself, Ms Kyle.'' What was the need for such behaviour?

Charlotte was smiling and agreeing with him, thank goodness. With relief that he didn't have to dance just yet, his eyes searched for Kelly on stage. She looked excited and he didn't blame her. After all. he'd turned up to watch her!

If only that were his actual thought process. He did, however, think that Charlotte's smile was very pretty, and he made a mental note to tell her that at a later date, when they were... Well, in a less crowded and intimidating location. As her hand found his, Dalton's smile faltered for a second before he squeezed a little and led her over to the refreshments table, thanking Merlin that she had enough confidence for the both of them.

It was almost annoying how popular Char was, though. So used to flying under the radar, having all these eyes on him was difficult to handle, and he kept his eyes downcast.

Until he heard someone actually address her. Then he looked up at - whatshisface? Bastien, wasn't it? Kelly's boyfriend, Sharkey's cousin. Didn't he move to Durmstrang? Or go back, or something?

What was going on?

He gulped slightly and offered the hand that wasn't holding Char's to the boy. "Dalton."