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Charles Hollingberry EraAll historical records pertaining to Ministry of Magic RPG under Minister for Magic, Charles Hollingberry [IC March 2097 - present; OOC November 2018 - present]
OOC: this event is set on January 11, 2104 - the SAME day as the Dragon Reservation field trip.
All Creatures employees would have been ordered to fall back and return to the Ministry
for this mandatory event
With the start of the new year comes the annual Ministry orientation event, arranged by the Department Heads; an opportunity for you to mix with your colleagues, the Ministry's brand new or returning employees. Though this year's event comes a bit later than usual after an extended break while an elite skeleton crew tied off a few loose ends and finished some much needed refurbishments. The atmosphere of this year's event, a suave and sophisticated gala, is not unlike that of a grand opening. Your invitation required that you adhere to the formal and elegant dress code.
Upon entering the Atrium, you will find that a table has been set up with party favours: small bags and boxes of varying quality. All bags at least contain lapel pins and name tags with each employee's job title, name, and blood status in fancy silver font. After passing through security and into the party proper, each Ministry employee will be able to find their own personal party favour thanks to the accompanying name tags, which also display blood status. The observant among you may note that the party favours are of the most supreme quality when destined for a pureblood, and diminish in this regard as they become intended for half-bloods, those who consort with muggle-borns and muggles, and muggle-borns themselves. Be sure to put those name tags on.
Chairs and tables are spaced throughout the Atrium, itself bedecked with white, silver, and black décor, leaving spaces all around for mixing and mingling. In one corner of the room, an orchestra of unmanned and enchanted musical instruments provide constant but subtle chamber music. If you pay attention, you may notice that only works by magical composers will be heard all evening. Along one side of the room, buffet tables hold a vast array of canapés and other hors d'oeuvres, and a range of beverages.
In spite of the opulence of the event, one significant change is likely to command your attention more than the rest. In the centre of the Atrium, where the Fountain of Magic Brethren once stood, a new towering marble structure now dominates the space. The Fountain for the Greater Good consists of a colossal levitating hand above a rippling pool of water, wielding a wand, and topped with Gubraithian Fire that nearly licks the ceiling. At its base, the Sign of the Deathly Hallows is engraved above the immortal words of Gellert Grindelwald: For the Greater Good.
Perhaps now it's starting to seem all too clear that the Ministry of Magic is not only ushering in a new year, but a new dawn.
Baguette | there is no D in my name | TRAITORclaw | Queenie of Narnia
Text Cut: Airey & Penelope W.
Quote:
Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie
His head slowly turned to look at the young woman, his eyes both present and vacant at the same time. There was a pause before he spoke, as though searching the wealth of information in his brain for the perfect response that would have come more readily and easily under other circumstances. “Change is the essential process of all existence,” he replied with the same joyless tone he had before despite the source he was quoting. And then the man’s head was inclined towards another voice who had joined them, one of the Unspeakables from the department. One who was on the short list of potential liabilities who would need to be dealt with. “Gerulf. Good evening.”
Then they were joined by yet another of Flamsteed’s former pupils and there was yet another moment of processing the words spoken to him before a response returned. “Live long and prosper, Miss Wright.” Verbal greeting only
Quote:
Originally Posted by griffin
Though it had been several years since she had last seen him, Penelope recognized her former astronomy professor from her Hogwarts days. Something did seem a bit off with him tonight, but perhaps like her he was also just uncomfortable at parties. While their student-professor relationship had been a somewhat interesting one due to the man’s affinity for the type of classroom activities that somehow always resulted in her injury, she had always been rather fond of him due to his enthusiasm for his subject and shared interest in pet rocks. She had even given him Boulder and once held a pet rock adoption fair with him. ”Live long and prosper, Professor Flamsteed.” Penelope raised her hand in the vulcan salute and smiled. She wasn’t sure if he would recognize her or not after the fourteen years or so that had passed since she graduated from Hogwarts, but he would know what that greeting meant.
Sorry, what was that about a new era? Weird. Maybe there was more to Flamsteed’s strangeness tonight than simply not enjoying social functions. She looked at the woman who she identified as sharing her name in a confused way as if to express how odd the man’s words were.
Odd that the man who seemed to be one of Flamsteed’s employees seemed so stiff around him. Was Professor Flamsteed a terrible boss? She didn’t really have him pegged as the type to be so. But what did she know of how he interacted with his subordinates? It had been years since she had seen him, after all, and the school setting could hardly give her the complete picture of how he interacted with colleagues.
It really was strange, the lack of the energy and enthusiasm and even awkwardness that she remembered about Flamsteed from her Hogwarts days. Awkwardness she could imagine someone getting over, sure. But everything else? He wasn't that old, was he?
"And whether that change is for the better or the worse...I guess we'll see." But if this change, this "new era," was what so much of this was indicating, then...
It was interesting to note that this other Penelope had also been a student of Flamsteed's as well, and even more interesting to watch their exchange of that catchphrase the former professor liked. Yes, everything was...off. She shared the look the woman gave her. At least that gave her confidence she wasn't just imagining this.
And then the Minister was getting up to speak. At the mention of bubbly, Penelope pocketed her stupid name tag for now - thank Merlin for dresses with pockets - then drew her wand and gave it a flick, summoning a glass into her hand.
Hollingberry's speech, however, was neither encouraging nor reassuring. The Neo Alliance? Who were they? And there was that "new era" Flamsteed had mentioned... And that phrase.
Merlin, this was...something. Definitely not good.
She quickly tipped her glass up and drained it, hardly tasting the liquid as it went down.
Text Cut: Daichi & Alana
Quote:
Originally Posted by DuckyLinJi
Daichi unpinned his name label from his suit because it was crooked and was about to pin it back when a voice next to him startled him. He nearly dropped the pin but his quick quidditch reflexes that had never left his body he caught it.
As if nothing had happened, he calmly pinned the label back before turning his head to the side to look at the Witch. ”It looks…” unnerving , unsettling, red flags went of in his head the moment he had seen the symbol. ”Interesting, doesn’t it?” he answered before turning fully to woman and held out his hand. ”Daichi Katharos, new employee in the Transportation Department ” he introduced himself.
Just then, another voice caught his attention and as he looked over he noticed that it was his Department Head. ”Excuse me for a second” he told the witch by the new fountain and with a quick nod of his head he left.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bazinga
She was trying to hide her feelings and smiled at a few other people. Going over to bar area she grabbed a drink just as Charles started his speech. She raised her glass, but quickly took it down. What was he saying? Who was this man in front of him? She was certain at the very point her mother had been cuddling and doing Merlin knows what else with an imposter. Whether it was someone else being him or his true colors coming out Alana didn't know, but she didn't know if she could stay at this event much longer.
She hadn't meant to startle the man, but at least he had caught his pin easily enough. Good reflexes.
Interesting was definitely the word for this...new addition. Or the safest worst at any rate. There were a lot of words that could be used, really.
"Nice to meet you," she replied, offering a smile and shaking his hand. "Regina Amstern. Gift Shop Attendant." Which...actually, maybe she didn't need to say that, considering the name tags. But Regina also wanted to just ignore those things, so maybe acting like they weren't there was the way to go.
But then someone else had caught his attention, and he was excusing himself. She nodded, not wanting to keep him from anyone else he wanted to talk to, and decided it was time to move away from the fountain and toward the refreshments.
She picked up a glass but didn't drink yet, just wanting to look around now that she had a moment to herself. The renovations really were...overwhelming. Some of it was nice enough, but the more...sketchy elements brought everything down with it. Why were they doing all this?
Then the speech. It...made everything even more unclear and uncomfortable. Of course it made logical sense that the Minister would have to be on board with these changes, because otherwise they wouldn't have happened. But he didn't...seem like the type. Not that she knew him much at all, so clearly, maybe he was, but she wouldn't have imagined it.
She took a sip of her bubbly drink at the end, mostly so she wouldn't stand out too much, though she did notice another girl (Alana) who did lower her glass without taking a drink. "That speech was...interesting, huh?" There was that word again. "Interesting" was the word of the night.
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if we fall, we will fall together; and when we rise, we will rise together__________________♥♥♥♥ together we are dangerous; together with our differences; together we are bolder, braver, stronger
It was an interesting event this year to make an observation at. Granted...this was the first one he had attended. The new fountain, the way everyone was treating this one woman colleague, which Scottie didn't even know WHY there was so much tension surrounding her. He WAS interested, however, in Dante since he was being all chummy with Goldwasser.
Interesting, interesting.
"Head obliviator........big job. Big man," he smiled easily and merely nodded at Goldy's instructions. They seemed to REALLY want to be private. It made him nervous and NOSY as all get out.
But like, he couldn't be super obvious. He also was not one to mingle normally. Where were the drinks? Could he stomach anything right now??? He made his way over to the refreshments, grabbed himself a glass, and then went to a corner to just....watch. Right right. Minister was constantly surrounded by people and talking...where was Fletchy? His cousin? Was she here? The words of the recent meeting at Flourish and Blotts was in his head, and he figured the less he spoke to anyone who had been at that meeting the better. As much as it sucked, he should probably avoid Fletcher, too.
So, the corner it was. Sipping, watching. Watching. Sipping.
And then the minister's speech. It was appalling. It was disgusting. It was right on par with what the secret group had been saying. Neo Alliance.
Neo...Alliance. How very...uh, well, he had a word in his mind he was thinking of. He raised his glass and smiled gently before downing the rest of his drink. that hurt going down, yikes. The giant LUMP in his stomach was terrible now. But on his face he was grinning.
GRINNING.
EVERYTHING WAS WONDERFUL.
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"You can justify anything if you do it poetically enough."
Roman Gellar ● 1st Year ● Slytherin
I'M A DELIGHT former department head current MLE detainee
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Join Date: Oct 2020
Posts: 127
"Red velvet, hoohOOHOO!" A real snack! If a little stale for her liking; too close to that pesky expiration date. Sian whooped a loud laugh, a delectable assault on the ears, at the Minister's little joke there, and graciously left him to his wheezing for the time-being. Instead she took the opportunity to give the squib a sweet, sweet smile as she backed off. Mhmm, best be staying back, kiddo!
Which meant plenty of Sian to go around for everyone else. She waved at Alphonsine with another finger-waggle and a wide grin as she passed on by. "Good evening, Alphonsine!" But then she was gone. Such a shame she couldn't stay to chew the fat, but clearly the young Rosier woman had other places to be.
In any case, Sian had Zabini here to feast her eyes on. He did make that easy. "Why, thank you," she replied, fluttering her eyelashes at him, but not quite reaching the level of acting coy. Because she was his boss, nothing to do with shyness being about as natural to her as a sugar-free lollipop. "You are looking rather dashing yourself." Yes, yes, nothing wrong with a little butter.
Sian supposed she ought to go seek out some more members of her department, do some mingling and such. But first came that TING TING TING from the Minister, and Sian grabbed herself the first full flute glass to hand, and beamed radiantly throughout the speech. Shine eternal sure was right.
She raised her glass. "To the greater good!"
Now, now, now, what on earth had that little spat been about, over by Flamsteed? Sipping daintily, Sian watched that one old codger over her glass like he was a particularly tantalising fudge fly.
Eyes were now on the Law Enforcement head, and Dante noticed the lip twitch. Nothing was said about it though. He didn't know Bain well enough to know if that was a normal mannerism. All he knew was purely speculation, for now. But the gesture from the man was all he needed to know that it was time to depart. "Please excuse me for a moment," he said to those who were present in the group (excluding the Squib, of course) with a charming smile before stepping away from them.
Words were not said as the pair walked to the edge of the atrium. The silence didn't bother him in the slightest. In fact, he welcomed the opportunity to embrace not having to rub elbows, to collect himself, and to fleetingly observe those the two men happened to pass by. Some were easy to read and very little effort was needed to know what they were thinking.
When Bain spoke, the Head Obliviator didn't reply right away though he was intrigued. His dark eyes shifted from people who were nearby so he was directly looking at the department head. "Seems reasonable," Dante spoke simply. With these changes in place, he could foresee that there would be some bad apples among them. "And you would like for me to be involved how exactly?"
Quote:
Originally Posted by Helios Sunrider
Nero's cheshire grin faded by degrees with each of his department head's words. Even his loose, care free, posture was replaced by rigid shoulders and a clenched jaw. "You do NOT dare dismiss me so cavalierly, Flamsteed! I have waited a very, very long time for this day. Now that it's here, it's only a matter of time before I get my hands on the --"
Those last couple words, the objects of his desires, were lost to the sound of tinging glass. The old doctor took this opportunity to turn away, and return to Jane's side to listen to the Minister's speech.
With a bright smile back on his face, Nero gave the witch a small nudge before clinking her glass with his. "To the greater good!" And then he downed his drink.
”Indeed,” Bain had positioned himself so his back was to the wall and so he could keep an eye on Dr. Nykto. The man seemed poised to make a fuss tonight and Bain was not going to let anyone spoil the glorious celebratory festivities. He was the type of man who’s eyes rarely stood still, and why should they when he needed to keep an eye on things. ”I would like,” he said bringing his attention back to Zabini. ”For you to run it.”
And before Zabini could respond, the Doctor started yelling at Flamsteed. He shook his head. ”Come to my office tomorrow Mr. Zabini with your answer. We can work out the details later.” And with that he slipped off into the crowd to deal with some issues.
As he followed the doctor back to his colleague ( MadAlice), the Minister called for attention and spoke. Bain kept Dr. Nykto in his sights. He didn’t need to scan the crowd for reactions to the Minsiter’s speech. They were as expected from most, surprise, shock, fear. He liked fear. It was a potent drug.
He finally reached Dr. Nykto, grabbing him by the elbow. ”Doctor,” he said quietly. ”You will come with me…” He tightened his grip on the man’s elbow encouraging him to turn and follow without a fuss. If would not come quietely, well, Bain had his cypress wand out and ready to use.
Nero stiffened at the sudden grip on his elbow. He didn’t see Bain coming, and secretly would have been disappointed if he did. “The champagne comes with me.” Quickly turning away from Jane, he followed Bain’s lead. Nero no longer wanted to cause a scene.
Fine, they knew what the phrase The Greater Good meant, most Hogwarts graduates would know if they paid any sort of attention in History of Magic class. But he could not believe Dalton and Yasmin seemed so dismissive about it. Why weren't more people outraged?
Clearly they didn't have children at Hogwarts or didn't think this affected them personally, but Milo was certain that other people here did. Surely there must be some people that were as upset as he was?
As it had been merely a passing comment to the two people near the flaming fountain and he had already intended his attention for the Minister, Milo said nothing more to those as he was quickly drawn to the loud clinking of the wine glass. He did not have his own glass to use as a toast, but he certainly did not care to have one if this speech went anything like he expected. But he did want to hear the man speak, or rather explain himself, before he had anything to say to him.
It was absolute rubbish. Who was this... Neo Alliance? Milo stared at the Minister a moment in disbelief before glancing around at some of the faces. Did no one have a word to say about The Greater Good? Perhaps they were all trying to be polite and not make waves, but that was how bad ideas took root and grew, because no one wanted to make a stand until it was too late. But Milo wasn't having it.
"RUBBISH," Milo announced loudly just as the Minister tipped his glass back to drink from it. "The Greater Good? That's dragon dung and you know it." He began walking towards the Minister now, intending to give him a piece of mind. He heard that very phrase from him before in his WWN broadcasts. And he wanted some answers about ALL of it. "Is it for the Greater Good that my sister is losing her mind worrying about her kids at Hogwarts who she has had zero communication with in over four months, that they can't even come home for Christmas? I suppose it's also for the Greater Good that my other sister was unduly dismissed under very suspicious circumstances." Okay he didn't have proof that anything was sabotaged, but he was certain he could find it if he just did a little more digging. "And is it also for the Greater Good that we all have our blood statuses on display?" He gestured to his own pureblood name tag. "Why does that even matter?"
He stood directly in front of the Minister now and he paused for a response, but not before adding one more thought. "The last time that phrase was thrown around, nothing good came of it."
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started like a knight in a fairytale_______________________________________________
ended like a moth in flames______________________ ______________________don't you worry I'll be fine _________________________________________________you were good for the plot line
"That is a perfect choice of words," Alphonsine told Dante brightly as her eyes flickered back towards the flame licking the ceiling. "A very bright future indeed." And the statue was a perfect representation of that. So fitting. "Ah, good evening, Bain," she greeted the MLE head pleasantly, then turned to one of his employees as he joined them and introduced himself - a Scott Ferguson. Hmm, his name was familiar. "Alphonsine Rosier, personal assistant to the Senior Undersecretary," she returned the introduction, smiling pleasantly. "Pleasure to meet you."
And if the squib had spoken to her directly, Alphonsine didn't seem to notice. She was far too occupied with the new dawn this gala signified and what the Minister had to say about it, as well as rubbing elbows with people worth her time, not those of insignificance. She had warmly returned the side hug Charles gave her, her bright smile still in place as he spoke. “Of course,” she replied at the mention of their regular tea times. “There is plenty that we can discuss later. I have just the perfect ideas in mind.” And if Victoria had still been employed in the Ministry, that might have been one thing she would have discussed with the Minister, because she clearly was not useful for furthering their mission. But since she no longer did work here, she was hardly a concern to her. Also, was she jealous of Alphonsine?
She was quite amused at the older woman’s response to be honest, though her bright smile never faltered. She supposed Victoria did have reason to be threatened by her, not that she had any intentions on “stealing her man,” at least not in the way Victoria seemed to think. But jealous shrew was not a good look on the aging woman.
“Oh yes, Charles, do get her a drink,” she agreed when Victoria mentioned needing one. She did seem awfully stressed out. “You don’t work here anymore, Victoria,” she reminded the woman, keeping a pleasant tone. “So please relax and enjoy the party.” There was so much to celebrate. Clearly the woman’s manners left with her employment, but what should she expect with someone who consorted with muggles. Perhaps that’s why her daughter was a squib, maybe her father was actually a muggle. That would hardly be a surprise.
Their small group seemed to have broken up for the most part now and that was okay with Alphonsine as she was ready for that toast with Simone. She sauntered a little closer after having grabbed two glasses of champagne, one for each of them. "So much to celebrate," she murmured as she handed her one, then turned her attention onto the Minister. She smiled so brightly, so proudly as he spoke, then raised her glass, "To the Greater Good!"
But she'd only managed one sip before her attention was drawn again by a loud outburst from one Milo Jordan. Alphonsine's bright smile dimmed significantly as her eyes found him. This was not acceptable and would not be tolerated. Her eyes searched the crowd for another.
Mom says I have no sense of direction, so I packed my bags and right.
Their conversations all halted very quickly as soon as the Minister gave his speech, but Louise’s presence was not ignored. He gave her a nod quickly, but returned his attention to the Minister.
To the greater good? Nah, no thanks. Aegis rather liked the good they were currently experiencing and wouldn’t trade it in for their version of greater. He tossed his glass of champagne to the floor not taking a sip, and tossed his nametag to the floor too. They misspelled his name on the damn thing anyways. He’s not Agis. He’s Aegis, and he wasn’t going to accept this new Ministry.
He did not get his wand out but he got it ready. Milo beat him to the punch in confronting the man. So it was better for him to be ready if things went and got worse. He instinctively put his hand out as if to usher the three women he was with to get behind him. If they could handle themselves then so be it. It’s just in his nature to protect.
“No nothing.” Saul responded to Franklin. “All I know is that they lifted the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery right under my nose.”
Ah, hold that thought. It was time to hear everything from the Minister that they were seeing.
“Excuse me, Franklin.” Saul said politely stepping forward then making his way toward the Minister as well.
Saul was beating himself up in his head. He hated confrontation like this. It was going to make him stand out. “Milo is right! What's happening right now. What we're seeing. This will not end well.” Saul stopped just before the gathering surrounding the man. Standing a few feet back from Milo who had taken the initiative to call out the farce of this event. “What’ve you done with my children? Don’t pull that Greater Good junk with me, Charles.”
Secondly and this time he shot eye daggers to Bain Goldwasser. “When exactly were you going to tell me about the new invigorations to my division? You’ve already undone the Underage Restriction without even a word to me!?” Saul walked just a bit closer. “Did you want to dismiss me from my position as well?” Now was their chance.
Turning to see who else had joined them in their statue observation, Sarangerel offered the newest arrival, Luther, a smile. "Whoever ordered it, it must have been quite the refurbishment." An odd thing to spend what she assumed to be large amounts of money on. Surely there were more pressing issues than statues honouring outdated ideologies.
Luther grabbed a drink with one hand, and a small plate for pastry with the other. He smiled at that sarcastic tone the woman showed and nodded shortly. He looked behind them just in time to see the minister try and get everyone's attention. Luther exchanged looks with the woman right before the speech.
And it was an odd speech. While he was not closely acquainted with the minister and knew little about the man's personality, he assumed Charles did not hold such an extreme position when it came to the wizarding world expressing itself, or whatever he had called it. At the end of the speech, Luther neither raised his glass nor did he 'chant' that ridiculous phrase. He paid attention to those who did or did not, though. "Well, that's a lovely start of the year," he murmured, stuffing a piece of pastry quickly into his mouth.
Text Cut: Cox & those he notices
Quote:
Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie
How the hell she had convinced him to be here at another one of these shindigs was beyond him. Hand in hand at that. From the moment they had arrived, Cox had been ready to turn around and march right back out. Her work at the Ministry had already started and he had vowed never to work at this place again despite the nice compensation his former department head and Hogwarts professor had arranged with the approval of Minister Hollingberry for all those years the former loon had transformed him into a trout. He honestly could care less about the name tag business, save for the fact that his full name of ‘Elliot Cox’ was now right there and he was still very much in a state of Cox and keeping the Elliot side tucked away in seclusion. Even if Eureka was starting to scratch those walls down - it would still take her a bit of time.
“Oh good,” he groaned noting that she tucked hers away. “Means I don’t have to wear this rubbish either.” No one needed to know his name, thanks.He was neither here nor there about his blood status, muggleborn, but hardly felt that that was pertinent information to anyone either. “How long are you going to make us stay for?” Sure, he imagined he was about to be weasled into a dance or two but could they then get out of here? It had absolutely nothing to do with the new decor, which if anything he found appealing for reasons he did not feel like exploring at the moment, and everything to do with this being a large social gathering while wearing a penguin suit. He just wanted his jeans and flannel, thanks. Catching her eye, however, he signed and started walking more towards things when his perpetually irritated gaze fell upon the familiar likes of Natalie and Emilia. Neither of whom he felt would be particularly pleased to see him for one reason or another - though neither he felt he was on bad terms with either.
Had just been, well, awhile.
“...wizarding Britain is entirely too small,” he grumbled to himself while pulling his attention away from the duo of ladies back to his nametag which he promptly shoved into his trouser pocket.
The nametag thing was cute. No, actually, his whole presence here was cute starting from how handsome he looked in that suit, to his grumbling figure by her side providing her SUPPORT (whether he admitted it or not), and down to his trying to hide his name probably from her and from the others. Cox had rare cute moments she preferred not to point out so he wouldn't lash out at her. She did float the idea that he could try and be a tiny less sarcastic tonight... right? Right. She didn't believe he listened to that bit of their discussion, but there we go.
"You mean how long until we run out of fun and go home?" She rephrased nicely. "Three drinks, one dance." She learned to be clear-cut when she negotiated with him--ahem, sorry, when she requested from him. Those three drinks? She was going to milk them, because look how absolutely dashing they both looked together. "Hmm?" His remark drew her attention, eyes travelling to where his eyesight was. There were a lot of people in that direction, though. "Do you see someone you know? Perhaps we can go say hi?" She pulled gently on his arm, a little excited that he was engaging in the event. After that, she could go find Sachin and his partner? She felt they had this tradition of having a drink together at the start of each term. It would be nice to introduce them to Cox this year.
The minister's toast came interrupting her dragging Cox to where the potential friends were. Eureka stood focused on the old man as ominous words and shocking promises were made. It was obvious what changes the ministry's policy adopted this year, wasn't it? The fountain replacement, the nametags, the security, the minister's clear announcement. Her eyebrows furrowed just a little, perhaps she was jumping to conclusions here but didn't they have this trend not long ago in history? She looked at Cox to see his reaction, which surprisingly wasn't as solemn as hers. Maybe he didn't care. Was it because he genuinely didn't care or the runes doing their job? She could never know. Instead, she just grabbed his arm tighter, "Interesting speech. It's not usually like this, but then again it goes with the decoration." There was a hint of sarcasm in her tone. It seemed she was joining Cox tonight in the sarcasm forte instead of dragging it out of him.
Missa was not late (she was). She just had too much on her plate, and had JUST made it in time -- gladly dragging Eiji along with her too in the process, who looked quite dashing, did he know?
The name tags, the mention of blood status - it all did not go unnoticed. She simply had no time to comment on it because the moment she stepped in, Eiji's grandfather was starting his speech.
And what a speech it was.
It left her baffled beyond comprehension.
"Is your grandpa okay?" she couldn't help but state - more than ask as she turned to look at him - all the while noticing familiar faces in the crowd; Gabriel, Nina, Caylx. Missa needed to go say hello to all - but at the moment, she was still looking at Eiji with much concern, "Greater good? Siding with the Neo Alliance? This does not sound like him at all, Eiji" Or had she judged him wrongly?
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Nothing needed to be said when he took hold of Stella's hand. He could practically feel the tension radiating off of her. What was going on here? What had he walked into? "I told you I would be here," he whispered in return. A promise was a promise after all. As for what was happening, well, that only got a the smallest hint of a shrug from him. He was sure they would be finding out soon enough.
The gentleman (Oliver) whom Stella had been speaking with got a small nod in greeting. "Hello, Oceanus Zunther." The introduction was simple but what more was there really to say right then? Glancing around once more, he spotted a familiar face. Carsyn. At some point during this orientation he would have to make his way over and say hello but for now he settled on a simple smile sent her way.
When the Minister called for everyone's attention, Oceanus made sure to grab to drinks, passing one to Stella. Listening in silence to the speech that was given... well... he was anything but pleased. This Greater Good business was a pile of garbage. After what he had seen earlier today, none of this was going to end well.
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Days of Potter 2023:___________________________ Which Bertie Botts Flavour Are You? You are Bread!
”Laurel!” Adam said perhaps a little to brightly. If Zita were here she likely would have given Laurel the stink-eye for the rest of the evening. ”Ja, zat sounds lofely,” he said, but then realizing Laurel had only brought three glasses, Adam offered his to Penelope as Laurel spoke to Airey about the mess in the prophecy room. He hadn’t really been much help, so after collecting the bigger piece of the rock golem and hauling them off to a storage closet for later inspection, he had returned and mostly kept watch – which was kind of funny if you thought about thought about it. ”Are you alone tonight? How are ze kinder (children)?”
”Zey are. Zita picked zem out. Do you like zem?” He asked as he fiddled with them. And then he relized he hadn’t introduced the lady who was helping him find his…whatever was at the table. ”Oh… Oh! Forgife me...Laurel zis iss...” long pause. ”I do nicht know your name,” he finished awkwardly. But then the lady was addressing Airey. Was she a new employee on Level 9? He pushed his glasses back up his face. A newly developed nervous tick perhaps? Or was he just not used to the knew glasses? No, she said professor. It had taken Adam a while to understand that Airey had once taught in a school.
”Well it suites you nicely. Brings out the color in your eyes,” he said pleasantly and he reached for a glass of something alcoholic, champagne he thought. He didn’t even care what it was. Then he snacked up one sparkling cider for Sachin and handed it over. His was mostly gone by the time that Dr. Nykto passed by and suddenly was refilling it. He glanced at the glass, then after the man who honestly just seemed to be busy spreading round the some cheer. He might have been suspicious had he not immediately joined Ms. Howard. He raised a glass in their direction in acknowledgement and then took a sip. ”And how are you finding the evening? Anything we should make sure to try?” he asked looking over the food table although he wasn’t at all in the mood to eat. Would Sachin be surprised? Of course not, but he’d still likely be putting food on a plate and forcing Conley to eat in a bit.
Of course it was only a matter of time before Adam noticed that Aaron wasn't by her side. After a long breath, Laurel smiled back in response. "Yes i'm solo tonight. The children are fine. We couldn't get a babysitter so Aaron stayed home to watch the kids." And she left it at that. It was no use dragging up their argument and her exit. It was a private matter, even if Adam was her BFF in the workplace. Taking a second closer look at Adam's glasses Laurel affirmed ignoring the Zita part. "I like the glasses. Will they aid your sight better than the other ones?" Hopefully or maybe they could be charmed to be better.
Turning to the lady by Adam's side Laurel smiled brightly in greeting after overhearing Airey's response. "It's nice to meet you Ms Wright!" Thinking she asked "Did i perhaps teach you Divination at Hogwarts?" Or did she mix her up with someone else?
"Thank you, Conley!" Aurora replied kindly. She hadn't known that her glass was empty before a man came an refilled it. She was careful with things given to her by strangers, but since Conley seemed to think he was okay Aurora took a small sip of the bubbly that turned out to be champagne. Focusing back on Conley she smiled "It's a wonderful evening, you should really try the shrimp canapeés at the buffet tables, they are delicious." She said with a gesture to the entree dishees. "Got any mingling tips for a newbie department head?" She knew that Conley was an exprienced department head with many years under his belt.
SPOILER!!: Airey + Minister speech
Quote:
Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie
When yet another joined the growing group, the man’s jaw clenched and the corner of his mouth twitched uncontrollably for a few counts...though this muscle spasm too soon was dealt with. “Airey Flamsteed repaired all the orbs,” he corrected her somewhat coldly. There was only one reason the orbs had been repaired at all that day and that reason was now in the hands of another at Hogwarts now. His throat felt dry and scratchy and deep down he wished to reach up and fiddle with the knot of his tie, but he couldn’t. He could only continue to stare ahead or cae cursory glances at those who had decided to speak with him. “I would not care for cider.” Words that came around as an after thought of sorts.
Moving to the small stage beside the enchanted instruments (which ceased their playing as he lifted his hand towards them), Charles pulled the note cards out finally...but ultimately gave them very little time. The words were already in his head and had been, there was no need for him to refresh himself.
“Pardon the interruption, friends and colleagues! If you all could please ensure you have a bit of bubbly in hand...yes? Excellent!” Charles’ jovial voice boomed across the Atrium, his eyes twinkling and a pleasant grandfatherly sort of smile in place. His fingers coiled over the lion head atop his cane and wiggled it a bit into a more comfortable position as he looked over the crowd. His shoulders rolled and his chessed puffed out, but as his gazed shifted among the crowd ...the twinkle in his eyes faded. “I would just like to take a moment to welcome, WELCOME, one and all to what is sure to be another PROSPEROUS year at the Ministry of Magic! The improvements to the Atrium which currently surround you all - such delightful feasts for the eyes, are they not? - now are only the beginning as we step out of the shadows and into the light as a wizarding nation. Let us lift our glasses and offer a toast to the future of our wizarding world, to the freedom to be ourselves, and our contributions to the Neo Alliance with which we stand. May this new era shine eternal like the Gubraithian Fire above us! To the greater good!”
'Airey repaired all the orbs.' Laurel speechlessly just stared at Airey for a moment totally baffled, not being able to respond to his cold response. Why was he so weird and changed? Laurel stole a glance over at Adam to see if he had taken note of what Airey had just said too and his off demenour. She was very well aware of who had done what in the Prophecy hall and Airey had repaired one or two orbs, but not all thousands of them. Keeping a straight face since Laurel had a feeling that protesting wouldn't be seen well upon she replied simply. "Whatever you say boss, of course you fixed all the orbs." Then the Minister went up on the stage and spoke about the Neo-Alliance and For the greater good and Laurel instinctively got a bad feeling about what this new era meant for the whole of the wizarding world and not just the ministry.
SPOILER!!: Stella + Oceanus
Quote:
Originally Posted by Granger Danger
Returning the small smile back, Stella sighed her sky blue eyes looking around the place. This wasn't how she imagined working for the ministry would be like, it didn't seem warm and welcoming. "Hello good evening to you as well, thanks I love pizza so this has to be a close seconsm" Taking one she took a bite out of it. "Mmm... you're right it is good, I'm Stella. Looking down at her dress she smiled. "Thank you, my boyfriend brought it for me."
Enjoying the some pizza canapés that Oliver politely offered her she sighed in relief and felt herself calming down as a familiar hand slid into her fingers. She felt better now that he was here, she always did when he was around. "Thank goodness you're here Ocean, what in Phoenix tail feathers is all this?" She whispered to him kissing his cheek. She didn't like any of this at all, but what were they able to do about it?
"It's nice to meet you Stella." Oliver replied pleasantly as he sipped on his drink. He didn't manage to say or ask anything else before they were joined by her boyfriend and he repeated the greeting. "It's nice to meet you too Oceanus." Not wanting to be the third wheel in the conversation he said with a smile to them both. "Well, I bid you both a nice rest of the evening. I see a man waving for my assistance by the drinks table. If you ever need a healer then stop by Level One and ask for me. Good night!" And with that Oliver departed from Stella and Oceanus and headed for the drinks table where a man had as it looked already had one too many glasses of champange.
SPOILER!!: Sachin
Quote:
Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19
Conley was right; her dress was lovely. Sachin was glad to be introduced. After all, he was somewhat of a social butterfly. “Hello, Ms. Bagnold. Pleasure to meet you.’’ Sachin arched an eyebrow in Conley’s direction. Was his husband going to be possessive and protective throughout the event? “Are you looking forward to the challenges of being Department Head?” Because… you know, some persons took challenges in stride. “Ambassador to India,’’ Sachin answered, a hint of pride in his accent. “I have been since 2091.’’ Goodness! Had it been that long already?
Conley's husband Sachin more easy-going and social than his counterpart which was nice Aurora decided. Nodding, she beamed brightly "Yes, I'm very much looking forward to all the challenges that comes with my new position. I hope my department head role will make me grow as a leader and a person." But she was going to take it step by step and not rush into anything. That she had a personal assistant was going to make things a lot easier to organize. Aurora had never been one to shy away from a good challenge. She usually went in with both feet.
"India, I see. It's a very beautiful country, I've heard? Anyway Sachin if you have some free time could you mayhaps translate some creature documents for me? I can't read the text so for all I know it can be a request for a fwooper breeding licence or a zouwu gone missing." India had way too many languages.
Stella nodded. "I..I know you did, you're the best Titan."Her sky blue eyes looking around she seen Carsyn and gave her a soft warm smile and a wave definitely had to say hi to her later. Looking back at Oliver she nodded. "Will do, nice meeting you Oliver we'll see you around." It was always nice meeting new friends or seeing her old ones, it was a great feeling.
Taking a glass Oceanus handed her she listened to the minister's speech. For the Greater good and Neo Alliance who were they? What a bunch of Dragon Dung, she thought it was a bunch of rubbish. What in the Merlin underpants is going on here?! Whatever it was she didn't like it. Was all this stupid name tag rubbish with blood status for the greater good?! Well... she thinks it's all a bunch rubbish and nonsense, well... happy new year to them. They had better luck tickling a sleeping dragon then argue with this, at least the dragon they can put to sleep.
There were a lot of things that couldn't be said. Not in this room, not without knowing how this woman felt about the Neo-Alliance, not without knowing if her children were safe. Vivi would fight with everything she had, if asked to, but if her actions at work put her family in danger, then she could learn to shut her mouth. But she did feel like there was more to what Delyth felt about all this, and it was a darn shame that they couldn't talk about true feelings.
Maybe they both made the same face at the Minister's speech before masking it with a sip. Chances were good. Vivi swallowed her answers about how it felt to be an Auror and how much she'd wanted to be one her entire life, just as she swallowed her sip of champagne.
"Would you like to get coffee sometime? In the cafeteria? Maybe take a break and compare our paperwork?" And maybe actually talk about how they felt about something.
The weight of the little speech from the Minster for Magic seemed to hang over the room and in particular, on their conversation but Delyth didn’t mind. At times like there, trust was an important commodity and who you trust, well, it was the difference between life and death it seemed.
She didn’t mean to grimace at the offer for coffee as it was something she’d happily do; it was more to the idea that they couldn’t speak freely at the moment. “A coffee sounds lovely. I don’t know about you but my paper work will still be there when I get back” or would it? Chances are the howlers from the parents may end up destroying her desk but well…that wouldn’t be a sad moment. “Just send me memo when you’re free. Something tells me you schedule as an auror is a little more busier than mine” before this whole situation anyway. Now she had parents wanting to speak to her day in day out.
SPOILER!!: Notices this and moves towards the mess
Quote:
Originally Posted by emjay
Fine, they knew what the phrase The Greater Good meant, most Hogwarts graduates would know if they paid any sort of attention in History of Magic class. But he could not believe Dalton and Yasmin seemed so dismissive about it. Why weren't more people outraged?
Clearly they didn't have children at Hogwarts or didn't think this affected them personally, but Milo was certain that other people here did. Surely there must be some people that were as upset as he was?
As it had been merely a passing comment to the two people near the flaming fountain and he had already intended his attention for the Minister, Milo said nothing more to those as he was quickly drawn to the loud clinking of the wine glass. He did not have his own glass to use as a toast, but he certainly did not care to have one if this speech went anything like he expected. But he did want to hear the man speak, or rather explain himself, before he had anything to say to him.
It was absolute rubbish. Who was this... Neo Alliance? Milo stared at the Minister a moment in disbelief before glancing around at some of the faces. Did no one have a word to say about The Greater Good? Perhaps they were all trying to be polite and not make waves, but that was how bad ideas took root and grew, because no one wanted to make a stand until it was too late. But Milo wasn't having it.
"RUBBISH," Milo announced loudly just as the Minister tipped his glass back to drink from it. "The Greater Good? That's dragon dung and you know it." He began walking towards the Minister now, intending to give him a piece of mind. He heard that very phrase from him before in his WWN broadcasts. And he wanted some answers about ALL of it. "Is it for the Greater Good that my sister is losing her mind worrying about her kids at Hogwarts who she has had zero communication with in over four months, that they can't even come home for Christmas? I suppose it's also for the Greater Good that my other sister was unduly dismissed under very suspicious circumstances." Okay he didn't have proof that anything was sabotaged, but he was certain he could find it if he just did a little more digging. "And is it also for the Greater Good that we all have our blood statuses on display?" He gestured to his own pureblood name tag. "Why does that even matter?"
He stood directly in front of the Minister now and he paused for a response, but not before adding one more thought. "The last time that phrase was thrown around, nothing good came of it."
Quote:
Originally Posted by Uncle Moose
“No nothing.” Saul responded to Franklin. “All I know is that they lifted the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery right under my nose.”
Ah, hold that thought. It was time to hear everything from the Minister that they were seeing.
“Excuse me, Franklin.” Saul said politely stepping forward then making his way toward the Minister as well.
Saul was beating himself up in his head. He hated confrontation like this. It was going to make him stand out. “Milo is right! What's happening right now. What we're seeing. This will not end well.” Saul stopped just before the gathering surrounding the man. Standing a few feet back from Milo who had taken the initiative to call out the farce of this event. “What’ve you done with my children? Don’t pull that Greater Good junk with me, Charles.”
Secondly and this time he shot eye daggers to Bain Goldwasser. “When exactly were you going to tell me about the new invigorations to my division? You’ve already undone the Underage Restriction without even a word to me!?” Saul walked just a bit closer. “Did you want to dismiss me from my position as well?” Now was their chance.
Sighing a little, the blonde turned to grab another drink, which may not have been advisable as she hadn’t eat all day, but it did not matter as her eyes fell on some of the other party guests it seemed couldn’t keep their distaste under control. It was true that Delyth wasn’t familiar with the gentleman from Games and Sports (Milo) but she certainly agreed with what he was saying. But did he have to be so loud about it? So obviously against their current predicament? It was much better to work in the shadows. But it seemed he wasn’t the only one as another person stepped forward!
Was it time for her to step forward? Sure, shadows worked but…no. She shouldn’t shadows. Hesitantly, she took a step away from Genevieve towards the Milo from games and sports as if she were actually thinking of doing something.
Gabriel nodded to Mariana, grateful for the reminder of her name. Both the name tag and the verbal reminder. "Yes, I remember you also," he said. "Gabriel." The little sandwiches Mariana and Joseph were not eating looked delicious, but...Gabriel had noticed they didn't take very kindly to him stuffing his face with stuffed mushrooms, so...maybe he needed to hold off on the snacking a while longer. Maybe until he took a break from socializing, and he could make a plate and go sit in a corner somewhere. Yes, that seemed like a good idea.
His ears perked up when Joseph switched from the topic of mushrooms and started explaining his job. Well, rattling off a job description, apparently. "Are you a new hire?" he asked curiously. "YATI training is about preparing to become an Auror, so we learn all sorts of investigative skills, and defensive spells. I'm looking forward to learning hostage negotiation!" Because who didn't look forward to negotiating for the lives of hostages?
Quote:
Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19
Maybe it was rude of Brody to not actually pay his current company some attention via his eyes. But he was one who rarely cared about anyone in general. Still, he was pleased with the mini sandwiches suggestion. “Thanks.” The young man reached for a plate, added two sandwiches to it and only then did he turn to give the other man his full attention. Well, well. Wasn’t Joseph the attractive one? Brody did not hesitate to take that hand, smirking slightly as he did so. “It’s quite nice to meet you, Joseph. I’m Brody. International Magical Cooperation.” Next, he shifted his hand to Gabriel. “Great to meet you as well.’’ Brody took note of Gabriel’s demeanour. Did he too not like making eye contact at first? “Definitely worth it,’’ Brody told Mariana, having just polished off one of the sandwiches himself. “Are you guys new to the Ministry too?”
Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow
"Been here a few years now, actually," Mariana answered Brody, offering him a half smile. "Though this year certainly feels like starting all over again. New look, new attitude." She gestured around them before helping herself to another sandwich as she listened to the others chat. Gabriel seemed particularly excited about his job, which was refreshing to hear. She could relate and loving what you did each day was so, so important. At least in her opinion it was. Speaking of..
"Well, essentially I'm crazy about plants," She smiled a little at Joseph and shrugged. "I look after them in the greenhouses, study them, do my best to keep them healthy." Plant mama right here, pretty much. "It's the best." She couldn't have asked for a better job.
As for her place of work, well, she wasn't so sure anymore. The minister's speech put a pause on her conversation and she took a moment to process his words.
"Yes, I'm new." Joseph answered both Gabriel and Brody, giving both of them a smile. "That sounds fun." He replied in return for Gabriel's enthusiastic description, though he looked slightly taken aback when he mentioned hostage negotiation. Negotiating the lives of hostages? That sounded stressful. He smiled at Brody as he returned the handshake. "It's nice to meet you too." Helping himself to another sandwich, he listened to Mariana as she described her job. "I've never been particularly keen on plants myself. But I suppose they..." He shrugged as he trailed off. "...look nice? Some of them do anyway." After trying a stuffed mushroom again (they still didn't taste nice), he picked up a glass to listen to the Minister's speech. Raising his eyebrow slightly as he described the new additions to the Atrium as "delightful feats to the eyes", Joseph had several questions running through his head. The Neo Alliance? Who were they? If they promoted the same ideals as Grindelwald had promoted all the way back in the 1920s, Joseph was sure he certainly wouldn't like them.
He only managed to raise his glass a couple of centimetres and could only muster up a weak smile as the dark wizard reappeared on the tapestries. He was sure his first year at the Ministry would be... action-packed, to say the least.
He finally reached Dr. Nykto, grabbing him by the elbow. ”Doctor,” he said quietly. ”You will come with me…” He tightened his grip on the man’s elbow encouraging him to turn and follow without a fuss. If would not come quietely, well, Bain had his cypress wand out and ready to use.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Helios Sunrider
Nero stiffened at the sudden grip on his elbow. He didn’t see Bain coming, and secretly would have been disappointed if he did. “The champagne comes with me.” Quickly turning away from Jane, he followed Bain’s lead. Nero no longer wanted to cause a scene.
Well, this was not going at all the way Jane planned. Swiftly she stepped forward to catch the men before they left. "Ah, Mister Bain, surely you can't mean to take the doctor away on business during such a delightfully festive evening. I was just reminding the doctor that he was getting a bit too loud, and I'm sure he has no intention of causing any disruption. It is so easy to get carried away with the spirit of such a celebratory occasion."
Professor Pink | Mrs. Bruce Wayne | I'm on a Goat | Glitterpuff | Dumbledore's Defense Squad | BHB
Fletcher had been... around the gala, dressed to the nines, nay, tens of course, with all credit being given where credit was due (to his wife and stylist and personal shopper). Said wife was noticeably absent from his arm this evening, for reasons which will go unsaid but which mostly relate to his putting a Glitterpuff shoe down on the whole matter of safety and family responsibility and etc. etc. With a wrinkle of his nose, he flicked his scarf, which according to said team matched his shoes, and snagged a glass of champagne as he passed a little group by.
Oh, it was Bain and the old man from Level Nine, was it? And... Jane? Where were they going? Fletcher eyed the three of them as he walked past, deciding on a whim to grab Jane's ebow to take her with him.
"I'm late to the party, Miss.....? Do you mind catching me up?" He had a bad feeling something was about to happen and wanted to pull one of his people away from the action. Had to listen to that gut instinct, you know? Plus.... Fletcher really did want to know if Charles had made any remarks while he had been doing other things. Hopefully, Jane would play along.
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yeah, there's one thing about me that you should know________________________________ __________________________________________that I can't help from speaking my mind
Catching Kevin's look - and not immediately getting the meaning, but putting the pieces together after a moment - Jake sent back a small, guilty smile. Except who even knew if that was the vibe he got across; he couldn't see his face to check, and was not about to go hunting down a shiny spoon just to make sure.
Tomasz' immediate reaction, the shrinking and head-ducking, did not go unnoticed, and Jake felt a pang of guilt without entirely knowing why. He had a look at the name tag, and thought at first that maybe Tomasz didn't want to wear it in such an environment because it proclaimed him a muggle-born, but... "Right..." That was strange. (Was it? Maybe.) "I don't know, but maybe some records got mixed up. I can have a word with Goldwasser and... see." Or, also, maybe not. Or maybe just without mentioning the lad specifically. "Put it on though, Tomasz, just for now, and we'll try to get it sorted. You might end up drawing more attention to yourself without one." And that, for some reason, seemed like a very bad idea.
The fountain though. Jake had been planning to pretend that he hadn't seen exactly what was engraved at the base of it - painful for someone who had always been good at noticing even the smallest details. That plan soon went out the window, however, when the phrase was spoken aloud.
"It's impressive," Jake said to Kevin - whether or not he was the intended recipient of that question - as he looked up at the towering monument. He wasn't lying, it just worked out that the statement was sort of diplomatic too; the fountain was objectively grand and imposing and it left an impression. And the fire was pretty cool. Uh. Striking. Was he too old to call things cool now? He'd have to get Jonah and Jackson's input on that one. "I mean, it's definitely a statement." A really horrible, unfortunate statement. Something he needed to convey to Tomasz, though not in so many words. "It's a slogan, used by the Alliance, years and years back. The symbol too. I can catch you up on it later, if you-"
The ting-ing interrupted him then, and Jake stopped mid-sentence to look around for its source. Ah, the Minister, looking... uh. Old. Maybe? Jake didn't see a lot of Minister Hollingberry in his day-to-day life, so it was hard to make that call. He passed on picking up a glass, and instead paid attention to the speech and...
... oh.
And...
... oh no.
It was not exactly chaos, but things were... happening. That old bloke being escorted away. Protests being voiced. Jake's initial impulse was to join in, demand to know what the deal was, having been separated from three of his own kids even if it had initially been almost a relief but the urge was soon tempered. With the way things were looking, the (increasingly more insistent) sensible side of Jake told him it would not benefit anyone to make waves until more of the situation became clear.
For the moment, he glanced discreetly over at Tomasz, to make sure he wore the name tag.
_______________
All the anxiety Kaiser had been refusing to acknowledge in the run up to the event was definitely here now, and it was evidently manifesting in alarm and even a little anger about finding his name on his... uh... name tag. But there was a reason he kept that name to himself, a really, really important reason.
Moving neither boldly nor in an obvious attempt to be surreptitious, just staying casual, Kaiser tapped the metal tag with his wand so that only his surname remained. In one fluid motion, he took Candela's and did the same for hers, only this time he left her first name, and reholstered his wand. A smooth, subtle series of actions, nothing out of the ordinary, especially in contrast to how abruptly he'd snatched up the party favour in the first place, and how he was currently roiling just under the surface.
Kaiser looked at Candi, then followed her gaze to another woman, whom he just managed to catch looking away. Delyth, he remembered, from Level 1; it was one of those names that stuck easier in his head. Even as he looked, Kaiser noticed Alana as well, but she, too, was slipping off into the crowd before he could so much as try to smile. Maybe he'd find her before the evening was over, check in on things.
"We should... join the party," he said to Candi, clearly somewhere between a little heated and completely thrown. The latter of which only intensified when he glanced back at the name tags while in the process of handing Candela's back to her. "Wait." Kaiser looked at his own. What?
What the...?
The minister's speech had started somewhere behind them, and while he knew he needed to pay attention to it, confusion had kept Kaiser rooted and staring at his name tag yet again, and then at Candi's. Pureblood? Muggle-born? But... what? How did they...? That couldn't be right, could-... No, no, Kaiser simply did not have time to think about this right now. He quickly fastened the name tag to the front of his suit jacket, just below the ministry pin he already wore, and looped his arm back around Candi's. And then instantly changed his mind and took hold of her hand instead, interlocking their fingers. A sure sign that he was feeling distinctly unsettled, or had already perceived that Candela was and expected it to get worse. Or both.
"Are you okay? This whole thing is... I need to see Ch-... Mr Hollingberry." Kaiser had managed to miss the majority of the speech, but when he turned towards the party proper now, squeezing Candela's hand in what he hoped was a comforting way, he saw there was plenty still happening. The atmosphere was a horribly uncomfortable one, and Kaiser's eyes went from the ministry employees voicing their displeasure, to that Bain Goldwasser he'd heard a bit more about, to the minister... and then to Alphonsine, lingering a short distance away.
And back to the minister.
Yes. He definitely wanted to see Charles. Kaiser briefly considered telling Candi to stay put, but didn't want to leave her on her own, especially with what was written on her name tag and all that he'd seen and heard about the situation in the ministry even before today. Keeping hold of her hand, he began moving forwards and side-stepping party guests in an attempt to reach Mr Hollingberry.
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Days of Potter 2023:___________________________ Which Bertie Botts Flavour Are You? You are Chocolate!
SPOILER!!: Brody, Mariana, Joseph--just listening at this point
Quote:
Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19
Maybe it was rude of Brody to not actually pay his current company some attention via his eyes. But he was one who rarely cared about anyone in general. Still, he was pleased with the mini sandwiches suggestion. “Thanks.” The young man reached for a plate, added two sandwiches to it and only then did he turn to give the other man his full attention. Well, well. Wasn’t Joseph the attractive one? Brody did not hesitate to take that hand, smirking slightly as he did so. “It’s quite nice to meet you, Joseph. I’m Brody. International Magical Cooperation.” Next, he shifted his hand to Gabriel. “Great to meet you as well.’’ Brody took note of Gabriel’s demeanour. Did he too not like making eye contact at first? “Definitely worth it,’’ Brody told Mariana, having just polished off one of the sandwiches himself. “Are you guys new to the Ministry too?”
Quote:
Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow
"Been here a few years now, actually," Mariana answered Brody, offering him a half smile. "Though this year certainly feels like starting all over again. New look, new attitude." She gestured around them before helping herself to another sandwich as she listened to the others chat. Gabriel seemed particularly excited about his job, which was refreshing to hear. She could relate and loving what you did each day was so, so important. At least in her opinion it was. Speaking of..
"Well, essentially I'm crazy about plants," She smiled a little at Joseph and shrugged. "I look after them in the greenhouses, study them, do my best to keep them healthy." Plant mama right here, pretty much. "It's the best." She couldn't have asked for a better job.
As for her place of work, well, she wasn't so sure anymore. The minister's speech put a pause on her conversation and she took a moment to process his words.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dumblydor
Text Cut: Gabriel, Brody and Mariana
"Yes, I'm new." Joseph answered both Gabriel and Brody, giving both of them a smile. "That sounds fun." He replied in return for Gabriel's enthusiastic description, though he looked slightly taken aback when he mentioned hostage negotiation. Negotiating the lives of hostages? That sounded stressful. He smiled at Brody as he returned the handshake. "It's nice to meet you too." Helping himself to another sandwich, he listened to Mariana as she described her job. "I've never been particularly keen on plants myself. But I suppose they..." He shrugged as he trailed off. "...look nice? Some of them do anyway." After trying a stuffed mushroom again (they still didn't taste nice), he picked up a glass to listen to the Minister's speech. Raising his eyebrow slightly as he described the new additions to the Atrium as "delightful feats to the eyes", Joseph had several questions running through his head. The Neo Alliance? Who were they? If they promoted the same ideals as Grindelwald had promoted all the way back in the 1920s, Joseph was sure he certainly wouldn't like them.
He only managed to raise his glass a couple of centimetres and could only muster up a weak smile as the dark wizard reappeared on the tapestries. He was sure his first year at the Ministry would be... action-packed, to say the least.
Gabriel nodded politely to Brody. International Magical Cooperation...he wondered if Brody spoke any languages other than English. Surely not as many as his sister (what was she on now? Four?) but possibly more than him. Wait...that math didn’t check out. He frowned at himself, then shook his head to clear it. He didn’t really have anything else to add to the conversation with these folks, so...he took a sandwich himself, since they all seemed to like them.
Oh, there was Missa, and the fellow he’d met at the Leaky Cauldron. Her boyfriend, if Gabriel remembered correctly. They made a cute couple, he thought as he munched on his sandwich. He was doing an excellent job of not talking with his mouth full, if he did say so himself.
He raised a glass as the minister spoke, as requested. But what new era was the man talking about? And improvements to the Atrium…? Gabriel glanced around. Yeah, there were banners with some man’s face on them. And the new statue, which was pretty cool looking, really. Levitating and with fire on top. Gubraithian fire...Gabriel did not remember what that was.
He did notice people looked...concerned... What was a Neo Alliance? Gabriel frowned. Maybe it was something they taught at Hogwarts? Or, honestly, maybe even Castelobruxo had covered it and he missed something. He had basically failed his last history exam at Castelobruxo. And history was pretty much the only major he hadn’t attempted at university. But...freedom sounded like a good thing, right? Why were people so worried? He sipped his champagne in confusion. He looked to Mariana and Joseph. They seemed older and wiser, maybe they had a clue. But seriously, why was everyone so upset?
SPOILER!!: Milo and Aegis and Arabella and Dylan and Louise
Quote:
Originally Posted by emjay
Fine, they knew what the phrase The Greater Good meant, most Hogwarts graduates would know if they paid any sort of attention in History of Magic class. But he could not believe Dalton and Yasmin seemed so dismissive about it. Why weren't more people outraged?
Clearly they didn't have children at Hogwarts or didn't think this affected them personally, but Milo was certain that other people here did. Surely there must be some people that were as upset as he was?
As it had been merely a passing comment to the two people near the flaming fountain and he had already intended his attention for the Minister, Milo said nothing more to those as he was quickly drawn to the loud clinking of the wine glass. He did not have his own glass to use as a toast, but he certainly did not care to have one if this speech went anything like he expected. But he did want to hear the man speak, or rather explain himself, before he had anything to say to him.
It was absolute rubbish. Who was this... Neo Alliance? Milo stared at the Minister a moment in disbelief before glancing around at some of the faces. Did no one have a word to say about The Greater Good? Perhaps they were all trying to be polite and not make waves, but that was how bad ideas took root and grew, because no one wanted to make a stand until it was too late. But Milo wasn't having it.
"RUBBISH," Milo announced loudly just as the Minister tipped his glass back to drink from it. "The Greater Good? That's dragon dung and you know it." He began walking towards the Minister now, intending to give him a piece of mind. He heard that very phrase from him before in his WWN broadcasts. And he wanted some answers about ALL of it. "Is it for the Greater Good that my sister is losing her mind worrying about her kids at Hogwarts who she has had zero communication with in over four months, that they can't even come home for Christmas? I suppose it's also for the Greater Good that my other sister was unduly dismissed under very suspicious circumstances." Okay he didn't have proof that anything was sabotaged, but he was certain he could find it if he just did a little more digging. "And is it also for the Greater Good that we all have our blood statuses on display?" He gestured to his own pureblood name tag. "Why does that even matter?"
He stood directly in front of the Minister now and he paused for a response, but not before adding one more thought. "The last time that phrase was thrown around, nothing good came of it."
Quote:
Originally Posted by Uncle Moose
Their conversations all halted very quickly as soon as the Minister gave his speech, but Louise’s presence was not ignored. He gave her a nod quickly, but returned his attention to the Minister.
To the greater good? Nah, no thanks. Aegis rather liked the good they were currently experiencing and wouldn’t trade it in for their version of greater. He tossed his glass of champagne to the floor not taking a sip, and tossed his nametag to the floor too. They misspelled his name on the damn thing anyways. He’s not Agis. He’s Aegis, and he wasn’t going to accept this new Ministry.
He did not get his wand out but he got it ready. Milo beat him to the punch in confronting the man. So it was better for him to be ready if things went and got worse. He instinctively put his hand out as if to usher the three women he was with to get behind him. If they could handle themselves then so be it. It’s just in his nature to protect.
Peggy had wandered away from Alexander and Darcey, and she stopped to get a drink before seeking out those from her department to mingle more. And good thing, too, so she had a drink in hand for the minister’s toast.
Some toast.
Sure, the Gubraithian fire was a pretty impressive feat, that did not make her a fan of the message the new additions to the ministry were sending. And with the lack of communications from Hogwarts, she was worried even sans school-age children.
She spotted Victoria heading off after the speech and almost went after her, but then Milo started making a scene. Peggy sighed. This was not the place to make a scene. She thought her Gobstones Division Head would have more sense than that. It’s not like he was some fresh-from-Hogwarts new hire with something to prove. But at least the man had backup, she thought as she turned back.
Aegis. She had seen him earlier, best to continue her original plan of greeting those in her department. She made her way over, then nodded to the man and the three women with him, taking care to avoid the broken champagne glass on the floor. She paused to Accio the name tag from the floor and offer it to the man. Had it fallen?
“Evening, Aegis,” she said briskly, purposefully putting herself between the man and the minister. He looked so defensive, she felt like she needed to diffuse some tension. One of her employees making a scene at the gala was one thing, but two? At her first gala in charge? It would reflect badly on her. Anyway, she needed to distract from the topic of the toast and the champagne on the floor was an obvious target. “Need a refill?” She gestured at the mess on the floor. Her first attempt at a joke.
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Last edited by Waddles; 02-26-2021 at 04:42 AM.
Reason: Josey can't count
Bathes in Maple Syrup | Dancing Lobster | Mrs. Charlie Weasley | Seneca's Beard | That's So Fetch
His head tilted to the side just a little when the department head told him that he wanted him to run a special team of his. There were questions that were forming in his mind, many questions indeed. Curiosity taking over, it was enough to bore his gaze into the eyes of the man to pluck out any unsaid information. Dante was one who liked knowing exactly what he was getting himself into before he agreed to anything.
But, as it were, his efforts didn't end up leading to anything. He didn't let that bother him however; details were to come later the next day when he paid the man's office a visit. The Head Obliviator watched, without saying a word, as Bain walked away. This conversation would definitely be continued.
Soon after the Minister's voice rang in his ears, which caused him to very quickly grab another drink. He remained by the refreshments table as the old man gave his speech. As the words were said, a pleasant look grew on Dante's face. Without any hesitation, his drink was raised in the air. "To the Greater Good!"
A hearty sip of his drink taken, he swiftly made his way through the crowd to return to the group near the Minister. His pace was certainly not rushed though as he was watching the reactions of those he glided past. Of course, certain reactions were to be expected. But some of the thoughts that were fluttering about ... well, that just wouldn't do.
"Excellent speech, Minister," he complimented cheerful upon his return, raising the glass to the man. He had full intentions of taking another sip out of celebration, though that oddly pleasant mood of his was brought to a sudden halt by Milo Jordan and Saul Primeaux. His eyes narrowed slightly.
The blond-haired man silently nodded his head when Saul said the words he secretly hoped wouldn't come out of his mouth. But there they were, and Frankie was, sadly, unsurprised. Of course these changes with law and the direction their government was heading wasn't communicated with those in the Law Enforcement department. It made them look like fools, and Franklin Paton liked to think of himself as anything but a fool.
When the Minister spoke, however, the Auror couldn't help but feel like he was a fool. This was ... how could ... what?! Neo-Alliance? What the bloody hell was that? Though he didn't know every detail, the new fountain, the ungodly tapestries, drinking to the 'Greater Good,' all of it was painting a crystal clear picture. It made him slightly grateful he hadn't eaten anything yet, otherwise he was sure he would have vomited at this point.
His mouth opened to make a remark to Saul, but the man was already off to approach the Minister. Frankie considered following the man, just in case any tension needed to be diffused or to be there in case wands happened to be drawn, but he decided against it. Whatever was said by those who disagreed with the Minister's message could scream it to the moon and back right now.
What he needed to do was get himself a drink. Or a few. It was likely that was going to get him through the night at this point. No time was wasted as he headed straight for the refreshments table, downed a drink, and grabbed another. Frankie then retreated to a corner to get away.
Blue eyes fell upon the security officer. For a moment he hesitated, wondering if he needed to find a different corner to stand at. The younger man's grin was ... he couldn't tell if it was fake or genuine. "Scott," he said to him. His mouth opened, but then it was quickly closed. Frankie wanted to say something, to see what the lad thought of everything that was unfolding before them, but those words refused to come out of his mouth.
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Last edited by Zoe; 02-26-2021 at 02:44 AM.
Reason: Apparently I can't grammar today.
Nero stiffened at the sudden grip on his elbow. He didn’t see Bain coming, and secretly would have been disappointed if he did. “The champagne comes with me.” Quickly turning away from Jane, he followed Bain’s lead. Nero no longer wanted to cause a scene.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MadAlice
Well, this was not going at all the way Jane planned. Swiftly she stepped forward to catch the men before they left. "Ah, Mister Bain, surely you can't mean to take the doctor away on business during such a delightfully festive evening. I was just reminding the doctor that he was getting a bit too loud, and I'm sure he has no intention of causing any disruption. It is so easy to get carried away with the spirit of such a celebratory occasion."
Quote:
Originally Posted by BanaBatGirl
"I'm late to the party, Miss.....? Do you mind catching me up?" He had a bad feeling something was about to happen and wanted to pull one of his people away from the action. Had to listen to that gut instinct, you know? Plus.... Fletcher really did want to know if Charles had made any remarks while he had been doing other things. Hopefully, Jane would play along.
Excellent the good Doctor wasn’t going to give him any trouble. It didn’t appear, however that his companion was going to be as agreeable. He was about to reply when Fletcher appeared. It was nice to see the man was good for something. ”If you will excuse us Ms. Howard.” That was all he was going to say on the matter. ”Fletcher,” he nodded at the man a small smile playing his lips. It was good to see his warning from last year had stuck.
He began frogmarching Dr. Nykto towards the exit.
Text Cut: Milo
Quote:
Originally Posted by emjay
"RUBBISH," Milo announced loudly just as the Minister tipped his glass back to drink from it. "The Greater Good? That's dragon dung and you know it." He began walking towards the Minister now, intending to give him a piece of mind. He heard that very phrase from him before in his WWN broadcasts. And he wanted some answers about ALL of it. "Is it for the Greater Good that my sister is losing her mind worrying about her kids at Hogwarts who she has had zero communication with in over four months, that they can't even come home for Christmas? I suppose it's also for the Greater Good that my other sister was unduly dismissed under very suspicious circumstances." Okay he didn't have proof that anything was sabotaged, but he was certain he could find it if he just did a little more digging. "And is it also for the Greater Good that we all have our blood statuses on display?" He gestured to his own pureblood name tag. "Why does that even matter?"
He stood directly in front of the Minister now and he paused for a response, but not before adding one more thought. "The last time that phrase was thrown around, nothing good came of it."
But they hadn’t gone far when Jordan began speaking out. Still pulling the Doctor along, Bain made his way towards the Minster. Jordan’s rhetoric would not be tolerated in this new era. It was for the Greater Good that everyone here tonight understood this. He raised his wand. ”Immobulus.” And in case the man had thoughts about continuing to make a scene, Bain cast a silent Silencio the man's way as well.
Text Cut: Saul & Genevieve
Quote:
Originally Posted by Uncle Moose
“No nothing.” Saul responded to Franklin. “All I know is that they lifted the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery right under my nose.”
Ah, hold that thought. It was time to hear everything from the Minister that they were seeing.
“Excuse me, Franklin.” Saul said politely stepping forward then making his way toward the Minister as well.
Saul was beating himself up in his head. He hated confrontation like this. It was going to make him stand out. “Milo is right! What's happening right now. What we're seeing. This will not end well.” Saul stopped just before the gathering surrounding the man. Standing a few feet back from Milo who had taken the initiative to call out the farce of this event. “What’ve you done with my children? Don’t pull that Greater Good junk with me, Charles.”
Secondly and this time he shot eye daggers to Bain Goldwasser. “When exactly were you going to tell me about the new invigorations to my division? You’ve already undone the Underage Restriction without even a word to me!?” Saul walked just a bit closer. “Did you want to dismiss me from my position as well?” Now was their chance.
Quote:
Originally Posted by aRogueOne
Was it time for her to step forward? Sure, shadows worked but…no. She shouldn’t shadows. Hesitantly, she took a step away from Genevieve towards the Milo from games and sports as if she were actually thinking of doing something.
With one hand still holding onto the dear doctor, his other busy detaining Jordan, Bain merely gave Primeaux a glare. He didn’t respond to his questions or accusations. Instead he yelled, ”FERGUSON!” The man had been lurking around all evening, if he really wanted to make himself useful, now would be the time. ”If you would please…take Mr. Primeaux to the holding cells.”
And don’t think you went unnoticed (aRogueOne) ”I wouldn’t Miss, unless you care to join Mr. Primeaux in the holding cells.”
Look, there were a few people making scenes. Interesting. Not smart, but interesting. Scottie, if he had been more clueless, might be making DISGUSTED faces at most, but here he was enjoying his drink and the view.
Right right right.
Ferguson sounded familiar. Someone was yelling his name. HA. How funny. When his own surname was the exact same name -
....
HE WAS BEING YELLED AT?! TO DETAIN SOMEONE.
"YES SIR!" he splashed his glass of ~whatever everywhere as he WILDLY set his glass down, ready to spring into action, clearly. *BLINK BLINK* Primeaux...right. That bloke. "Incarcerous!" with a gentle flick of his wand he sent the unnecessary???? spell the man's way, hoping that it would help with the whole...not fighting the whoooooole way down to the holding cell. "I'll need your wand, Mr. Primeaux. If you...can manage it. Or I'll just take it myself." Scottie almost sounded cheerful, and he managed a sheepish grin in the man's direction. "I... wouldn't recommend fighting me on this. My bite's louder than my bark."
Who was suspect p-p-p-pooooor st-stuttering little Scottie to be hella good at magic? No one? He was Wes Ferguson's son. Ruff ruff. Grrrr.
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"You can justify anything if you do it poetically enough."
Roman Gellar ● 1st Year ● Slytherin
”Hauling off one of your allies while you lose control of the rabble? Not how I would do this, but I understand this is new for you.” To him they were children, and he often spoke to them as such. He thought of clobbering Bain with the bottle of bubbly while he was distracted, just for the audacity of man handling the doctor like this, and not giving him his full attention. Wasting good champagne was a crime he would not forgive himself for though.
Nero kept his cool, watching the events transpire around him with a strange sense of amusement. All the doctor had were his wits, and the red rose protruding from his breast pocket. Hopefully that would be enough.
__________________ In over his head
Last edited by Helios Sunrider; 02-26-2021 at 04:09 AM.
Oh, how we drift away from our friends. And the ones back home play remember when
Lucille listened to the Minister's speech with a proud gleam in her eyes. Raising her glass of champagne, she toasted with the words, "To the greater good!"
Then came the protesting voices of Milo Jordan and Saul Primeaux. How she wished they would be quiet. Lucille and her aunt and uncle hadn't been able to contact her cousin Fiona at Hogwarts either but she certainly wasn't going to complain about it. After all, it would make things worst and besides, she knew her cousin had been taught how to behave. The Neo-Alliance was right.
Lucille casually observed the "exchange" between Milo, Saul and Bain Goldwasser.
"My, what an eventful evening," Lucille thought with a small smile.
Oh, it was Bain and the old man from Level Nine, was it? And... Jane? Where were they going? Fletcher eyed the three of them as he walked past, deciding on a whim to grab Jane's ebow to take her with him.
"I'm late to the party, Miss.....? Do you mind catching me up?" He had a bad feeling something was about to happen and wanted to pull one of his people away from the action. Had to listen to that gut instinct, you know? Plus.... Fletcher really did want to know if Charles had made any remarks while he had been doing other things. Hopefully, Jane would play along.
Text Cut: Bain and Nykto
Quote:
Originally Posted by Bain Goldwasser
Excellent the good Doctor wasn’t going to give him any trouble. It didn’t appear, however that his companion was going to be as agreeable. He was about to reply when Fletcher appeared. It was nice to see the man was good for something. ”If you will excuse us Ms. Howard.” That was all he was going to say on the matter. ”Fletcher,” he nodded at the man a small smile playing his lips. It was good to see his warning from last year had stuck.
He began frogmarching Dr. Nykto towards the exit.
This man--Fletcher--could not have picked a worse time to try to pull Jane aside, in her opinion, and she did not initially respond to his efforts to lead her away by the elbow. But unfortunately, it appeared that Bain was determined to remove Nero from the party, so Jane nodded graciously with her best ambiguous smile, murmured, "Of course, Mr. Bain,", and, making eye contact with Nero one last time before he was taken away, gave him her best governess 'don't get into any more trouble' look before reluctantly turning away.
"So, Mr. Fletcher," she said, turning her attention to her new companion and allowing him to guide her off at last, "what was it you wanted to know? And it's Howard, Jane Howard."
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Ministry of Magic Gala 2104 
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