Party at McGrogan Manor (Invitation only)

[dawn]

Simultaneously three grandfather clocks chimed. Their low tones echoed through the mansion. One on each level, bringing attention to themselves with every ring. Dawn was outside on her back deck making last minute changes to her party. Her dining room French doors opened to the back deck making the deck be apart of the party. The deck was covered with white netting closing in the room from all insects. Fire torches illuminated the deck in a warm dim glow setting to mood. Vases as well as many bouquets of white Iris, Pink and violet Asiatic Lilies scattered the room. There was just enough punch of color, Dawn adored it. Several dark wooded tables and chairs were placed on the outskirts of the deck leaving room for dancing and conversation. A band was set up in the corner out of everyone’s way. They played guitar, violin, harp, as well as many relaxing instruments. Dawn didn’t want an electric band to play at her party, due to the fact she didn’t want them to take all of the attention away from the Birthday Girl. Dawn left as if the Deck was perfect, as she stood in the middle and scanned around. She was dressed in grey sweat pants, slippers, and a purple beater with her hair up in a messy bun. She was too caught up in her party and everything else to even think of getting ready. “These flowers bloomed yesterday correct?’ Dawn asked warningly to the florist who stood at her side along with a line of people waiting for her to call on them. “Yes, Madam. They will be at their peak of color and perfection with in the hour. They should stay that way for several hours afterward.” The florist with a French accent spoke. “Exactly how many more hours after?” Dawn shot as she seemed annoyed by his slow speech. “Erh… about five to six.” Dawn’s eyes narrowed as she made a decision. “I want you to go and ship in a whole order again just in case one flower dies before the time you said so. If it does it will be you who will change every single vase, as well as you whose head will be cut off.” Dawn spilled as she turned to the band. “I will not pay you for the time you are getting ready and warming up. Play, Now!” Dawn glared as the director motioned quickly towards his band to get playing as soon as possible. Turning around she took one last look at her deck as she nodded. “To anyone who was assigned the deck, you may go. But Leave your number and address with Fryance, at the door.” Dawn said as she nodded to who stepped out of line and walked into the dining room.

On the 22 person dining table stretching a vast length of her extravagant room, it was flooded with treats. First and appetizer then at 9:05 Dinner would be severed. Finger sandwiches, fruits, vegetables, and sweets anything you could think of was on the table. Looking at the table Dawn nodded. Glancing to her right, inside her kitchen there were three house elves quickly working away on the food. “Carizta, Wittle, Gibith it is only…” Dawn looked at the clock as she noticed the time. “Damn. Its 8:25. People should be arriving in five minutes.” Dawn pushed the line of people who were following her. “Go… Do your jobs. I need to get ready.” The two men and one woman walked quickly out of the kitchen so they could go, clean, or what ever they were suppose to do. Looking back at the three house elves in the kitchen Dawn shouted. “Wittle, once people start to arrive I want you to offer drinks.” Dawn turned on her heels and went into her hallway. It was gorgeous. It was classical, the hall was draped with classic paintings of Leonardo Da Vinci, Claud Monet, and Salvador Dali put on dark beige walls. Quickly turning right into her public room Fryance and Quinn, her two house else stood waiting for guests. The room had dark red walls with a detailed design hand painted on. It has a dark chair rail, with dark mahogany wood placked under it. Fryance was dressed in a grey cloth over his shoulder and around his waist. Quinn was dressed in a Dark blue shirt he seemed to make himself. Quinn was the oldest house elf, and had been with the McGrogan Family for as long as Dawn could remember. Where as some of the other House elves were merely with the family for 7 to 9 years. “Quinn, meet people at the door. Fryance stay here at the fireplace and meet people as well. Take invitations and if someone arrives without one of course, do not let them in." Dawn paused as she went on. "To those of whom have an invite- Tell them to walk right through the doors down the hall into the dining room.” Dawn reminded as she ran quickly out of the public room as the grandfather clocks rung again noting the time of 8:30. ’People are suppose to be arriving any second and I am not ready.’ Dawn shouted in her head as she ran up her stairs.

Floor two, finally floor three she arrived. Running down the hall to her left she pushed open a door. “Aden! It is 8:30. Please, get down stairs and greet people!” Dawn glared as she slammed the door and darted down to the right. She and Aden shared their own floor. Dawn didn’t mind at all, nor did Aden. Slipping on the wooded floor, Dawn’s slippers had no traction. Falling into her door, she grabbed the doorknob. Opening he door, she revealed her room. A massive room with maroon, melon, red, and strawberry wall colors. Every wall was a different color but all fit together. A King size bed with over 20 pillows sat in the middle of the room. Nearly 40 feet away from the door. An easel surrounded by several canvases sat by a door going towards her porch outside her room. “Hello, Miss. Are you ready to look ravishing?” a friendly woman’s voice greeted her as she slammed the door behind her.

(( To those of whom are allowed to post here. Please wait untill Aden posts. I want him to post first. After he posts, feel free to arrive. Also, to those of whom are arriving by carriage or car- to see the outside of McGrogan Manor, go on to my site in my profile.))

[Aden McGrogan]

((Alright, sorry for the delay folks, but you may now post ))

Aden gave a quick jerk of his head to get a annoying piece of hair out of his eyes. He heard the grandfather clock on the third level begin to chime, it was almost time. Aden sighed, it was that time of the year again. Dawn McGrogan growing 1 year older, and her parties were always a blast. A perfect party required perfect planning. Aden didn't even have to remember the exact date of Dawns birthday, not that he didn't know it, if Aden has to duck under hired servants placing decorations and jumping over house elf's that are bustling about, it could only mean one thing.

So now here he was, standing in front of his open closet, buttoning the last few buttons on his black dress shirt. He left the neck and the top button undone and began to work in closing the cuffs. Aden heard something and froze for a moment, listening. He identified it as footsteps on the stairs. He smiled to himself and counted down in his head. Three.......Two.....One....Now. Suddenly his door opened and Dawns voice drifted into his room. "Yes Dawn. Got it covered." He answered her as she shut the door.

Aden let out a sigh as he finished up the cuffs on his shirt and exited his room and walked down the stairs with his hands in the pockets of his black Khaki pants. As he came down to the floor level he noticed Quinn the house elf standing at his usually post. Time to play host. Aden thought to himself. Quinn would direct the guests to the dinning room and there would be Aden, greeting and welcoming them in, offering seats and keeping the conversation so the guests wouldn't be bored. Aden walked down the hall and entered the Dinning room. Aden leaned against the door frame and prepared for the arrival of the guests.

[kris]

Kris placed the tip of his wand against the safe and muttered the correct password, causing the door open slowly. He had inherited the safebox with the couple of hundred bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings and whatever else from some distant aunt. The aunt had always called him ‘Kristy’ so Kris suspected she had been a bit crazy, but he didn’t mind the inheritance. There were a couple of nice things here that could be used at moments like this. Even when looking at the safebox could blind you at first. Reaching in Kris took out a box he had been thinking about and closed the safe while opening the fairly big jewel box. Inside were a bracelet, earrings, ring and a necklace – all were designed to be silver cobras ready to attack with emeralds for eyes. Feeling a familiar buzz in his finger-nerves Kris smiled slowly. The snakes were old and had protection charms on them – offense was supposed to be the best defence after all. Besides the colours and the designing were good – what else would be a better presents for a Slytherin Queen?

As a last touch Kris slipped the family heir-loom ring – silver ring with a huge emerald bearing the family crest - in the middle. Kris didn’t offer wear the ring – he didn’t think of himself much as a head of his branch on the family tree, but today he would wear it. Glancing at the mirror as he passed it Kris eyed her emerald green silk-blouse with a silver chain holding it together at the collar instead of buttons and black silk-pants with small silvery edgings critically. This was what Kris wore at formal occasions and he had a feeling that there would be a lot of black, Slytherin green and silver visible at Dawn’s party. Taking hold of a portkey Kris felt the familiar tug and a few moments later he was standing in the ministry in Britain. Dropping the picture-frame that had served as a portkey Kris left the Ministry and slipped into the back-seat of a black Mercedes that took off immediately as the driver already knew his directions.

It wasn’t much later when the McGrogan manor came into view and Kris exited the car, throwing his sun-glasses carelessly onto the back-seat. Taking the jewelry box with Dawn’s present along Kris admired the manor from outside for a moment before entering. A house-elf greeted him at the door and Kris handed his invitation to him, before being led forward to the dining room where Aden already stood.
“Aden, a pleasure to see you again,” Kris greeted his fellow fifth year with a quick nod.

[leland]

Leland sat in the back seat of his car with his faithful driver leading the way toward his destination. He was dressed only in the finest etire. 'I kind of look like a prince.' Laughing to himself as he looked in a small mirror. Leland was known to be light on his feet with people he knew, and the McGrogan family was quite close to the Astors. Dawn and Leland's fathers both used to work together. But As Leland's old man retired from the business he still kept close with Dawn's father, Greg. They chatted a lot along with friends over drinks. On top of how their father's are friends, Leland's older brother Hector used to date Dawn and Aden's older sister Rachel. But that puppy love soon fell out. But the families of coure stayed friends.
"Where to, sir?" Leland's driver spoke. "McGrogan Manor." "Right away, sir." The car sped off north to a farmilar mansion.

Leland of course knew Dawn hated when people we late. Glancing at the car time, it was 8:35. 'She wouldn't even be ready by now.' Leland thought abotu Dawn frantically running around. But to Dawn, late was a different story. If you were trying to get into one of her parties when she was already in the middle of one, you were kicked out. Her good friend, Cole Waters tryed that last year. Leland remembered how the three house elves shoved him back into the fireplace. "Such a character." he spoke to himself as he looked out his window. The car stopped at two gates which were closed. Inching toward them, the sensor noticing a car was present, sent them through. Following up a long driveway, the car finally stopped close to the door. The driver went to the back left seat and opened the door. Standing out of the car, Leland fixed his black blaser and started towards the stairs. Ringing the door bell, the tone flowed low and slowly though the house. The hand crafted door opened slowly as a farminar house elf looked at him. "Mr. Astor. Welcome. Master Aden is in the dinning room with a guest already." Leland nodded as he held a bouquet of red Gerber Daisies, and a card. No the card wasn't money. Leland wouldn't stoop that low. But it was just a letter explaining his gift he could not bring.

Walking through the doors Leland turned left into the dinning room. "Hey there Aden." Leland said, as he saw him first. "Hello Kris." Leland noted as he saw him first. "Seems like Dawn does a little better each year. She is seriously to obsessive compulsive." Leland laughed as he glanced out on the deck.

[Trinity Bleu]

Trinity stepped out of her carriage and walked to the front door of the large and beautiful manor. She was wearing a beautiful, off the shoulder green and white dress that she had bought earlier that week, with her hair pulled up into a curly french twist. Her long diamond necklace falling gracefully into place, garnishing her neck perfectly. She raised her left arm, the one not holding a gift, and knocked gently on the door her diamond bracelet shaking slightly with each knock. As she waited she thought about the events to come, hoping she wasn't the youngest attendee of the party. The door opened slowly to reveal a small house elf, "Welcome Miss, ay I see your invitation." Trinity nodded at the house elf, handing him her invitation before she walked in, her gift and home made card in hand. She hoped that Dawn would like her gift, it was rather spendy- not that the money mattered-and seemed perfect for her.

Trinity walked in and her eyes searched for a familiar face, but failed. She was begining to regret secluding herself from all others at Hogwarts, knowing someone might have made her more comfortable at the moment. Trinity noticed a handsome slytherin standing in the entrance, she believed his name was Kris, but her uncertainty told her to stay quiet. She had noticed him as one of the boys she played against in her quidditch audition, he was rather good. Dawn had informed Trinity that he was to be the starting Keeper for next year and that Trinity herself would only play if Kris was injured. She watched the boy walk across the room, also holding a gift for Dawn.

Trinity waited patiently in the entrance of the lavish house for Dawn, along with the others who had been invited. It wasn't long before she noticed a Slytherin boy who looked very similar to Dawn, a sibling possibly. Her eyes caught his and she smiled slightly before turning away to continue her inspection of the manor. It was very large and beautiful, Trinity was impressed. The smell of fresh flowers decorated the air and teased Trinity's noise lightly, reminding her of a summer flower field. 'This party is going to be good,' Trinity thought to herself.

[lydiarivers]

Lydia surveyed the beautiful landscape as the limo accelerated down the tree lined road. Straightening out her dress, she felt a little nervous attending this party. Dawn McGrogan, one of the Queen's of Slytherin was hosting the event, and she could literally make or break the rest of her time at Hogwarts. If she made a total fool of herself here, she would become a social pariah for the rest of her life. She did want to arrive in style; however, she couldn't take this opportunity to outshine Dawn or any of the Queens. She desperately wanted to be a part of their clique, but until now, she was considered too young and undersophisticated to be a Queen. Now, with her sixth year approaching, it was finally her chance to make an impression. A quiet house elf was the sign of a good house elf.

Finally pulling in front of the large manor, she exclaimed at the sight of it. It was quite large, and beautiful. Exiting the vehicle after her driver opened the door, she smoothed the wrinkles out of her white floor length gown. Straightening the green bow that was at her waist, she put her chin into the air and knocked on the impressive doors. " Miss, what should I do this?" Suprised by the voice of Kay, her house elf, she turned around and acknowledged her presence. The elf was holding an invitation and a rather large box with a smaller box on top of it. " Yes, follow me with it. I'm sure there will be a table with gifts on it. You are to place it there, and then you should disappear until I need you. Understand?" Kay nodded her head in affirmation. Smililng inwardly, Lydia waited for the door to open.

After a few moments, the doors opened and Lydia walked in with her servant following. " Your invitation, miss?" A house elf put his hand out for an invitation. Lydia snapped her fingers, and Kay rushed up and handed him the invitation. Swishing past the servant, she followed a second house elf to the massive dining room. Smiling a gracious smile as she walked into the room, she walked up to the group that had begun to gather. " Good evening all. How are you, Leland, Kris?" She directed this question to the two of them, while offering her gloved hand to Aden. " I believe we haven't met. I'm Lydia. Lydia Rivers." This was obviously Dawn's brother, Aden. She had never met him before, but had heard of him.

After introducing herself to Aden, she turned and acknowledged a younger girl who was lurking in the entranceway. Attempting to include her in the conversation, Lydia gave her the same smile she gave the boys. " Trinity, am I correct? I've seen you in the common room, but I don't think we've been introduced."

[Perseus Feynman]

Perseus meticulously scoured a relics chamber in his grandfather's manor (on his mother's side), obviously looking for some sort of gift for Dawn McGrogan at her party at the McGrogan manor. As he scrutinized several extremely frangible tomes dating back at least 300 years, Perseus felt hopeless; he had never expected to be invited to such a consequential gathering before and rarely attended parties at all. It would have been an intemperate insult to the McGrogans if he did not attend. His grandfather's manor was located just outside of London, was miniscule for a manor and looked relatively new. In truth, half of his family would have been considered muggle-lovers by other pureblood families, even though they were 100% pureblood. Perseus had recently found a family in his fellow Slytherins after finding out that one of his greatest friends, who had already left Hogwarts and was a ministry worker, had been killed by a muggle. The event was rather strange, as the muggle had in fact killed his friend for attempting to get a medical degree. It angered him that such a great civilization could be so brutal and apathetic.

After looking at almost all of his family's valuable possessions, he found a peice of jewelry that could be implemented as his gift to the McGrogans. It was a turquoise opal attached to a golden chain and the gold that surrounded the opal was shaped into two serpents. Perseus questioned his grandfather who told him that the relic was a very old necklace that they had discovered in their Gringott's vault. He told Perseus that he did not care if it was given away, so Perseus wrapped it in a box. As he glanced out a window, Perseus spotted Cimmerian clouds billow across the sky, like a formation of angry horses made from water vapor. Soon after, large drops of water the size of bullets began raining down upon the earth at a prodigious speed. Perseus had hoped that it would not rain and hoped that it was not raining at the McGrogans. As he fastened the buttons on his dark green dress robes, Perseus took his package and stowed it away in a magically enlarge pocket in his robes and inserted the invitation letter along with it. He walked down two flights of stairs to the manor's entrance hall and exited out two antediluvian, oak doors. Unsheathing his wand, Perseus muttered, "Impervius.." Then he walked into the rain and signaled for the Knight Bus, which popped out of thin air, skidding to a halt on a rain-soaked pavement. Perseus held out his letter for Stan, the conductor to see, and paid him some money and stepped onto the bus. After a few minutes, the rather impulsive bus stopped abruptly in front of the manor and Perseus jumped out, feeling a bit sick. He walked up the steps of the magnificent manor, surrounded by a grove of maple trees and was greeted by a house-elf. Perseus gave it his gift and invitation letter before entering the manor, not speaking to anyone.

[Pansy Parkinson S7]

Pansy sat on her balcony and looked out across the Parkinson estate. The sun was fading off into the distance and she was soon off to Dawn's party. "Should the miss be getting ready?" A small voice asked from behind Pansy, her house elf Emmy. "Are my things ready yet!?" Pansy demanded without looking back at the elf, "y-y-yes miss, Emmy set your dress and shoes out and wrapped your friend's present already." "It's about time!" Pansy said as she stood up and walked back into her luxurious bedroom, "get out" she said while pointing to the door. Once the elf had left, Pansy changed into her white gown and slipped on her shoes before heading to her dresser. She wanted to put on a good image tonight, but not so good as to upstage Dawn, to do so would be quite improper. In short time Pansy had put on a pair of diamond ear rings, a silver bracelet, and an elegant necklace.

Pansy's next stop was her living room where the main fireplace was. Down the marble stairway she went and then crossed the large living room the fireplace. "When will you be back?" Asked her mother who was at a couch reading the Daily Prophet. "I don't know" Pansy responded as she grabbed a handful of Floo Powder. "It's at the McGrogan house right?" Her mother inquired once more. "YES! I told you that already!" Pansy disgustedly said as she threw the Floo Powder into the fireplace and watched the green flame erupt. "Well have fun" Her mother called out to her as she stepped towards the flames, "Whatever..." Pansy said as she entered the fireplace, "The McGrogan estate."

In a flash of bright light Pansy was out of her home and soon she stepped out of a fireplace in Dawn's home. In front of her she could hear the muffled voices of a few people talking and so Pansy headed in that direction, the direction of the dinning hall. Upon entering the room she saw a few guys she knew, none of which she'd call a friend or even someone she'd particularly enjoy the company of. Instead she simply walked around the room inspecting the artwork along on the walls until she reached Aden. "Where's Dawn?" She said as she slipped her present into his hands, "Give that to Dawn."

Soon a house elf walked up to her and asked Pansy what she wanted to drive, "It's about time" Pansy muttered more to herself than the elf, "I want a glass of Chardonay, and hurry up with that will you?" The elf quickly went off to get the drink but soon another elf approached Pansy, and this one asked for her invitation. "What!?" Pansy said as she looked at the elf, who again asked for her invitation. "Do YOU know WHO I AM!?" Pansy yelled at the little elf who remained steadfast in front of her, with his hand out for the invitation. With anger building up inside her, Pansy took her wand from her purse and pointed it at the little elf, "Oh look at that! A WAND! You want me to use it on you!? GET OUT OF MY FACE! You go tell Dawn that I'm here, she'll set you right, it'd suit you well to be sacked for this as well! And where's my drink!?"

[Aden McGrogan]

Guest began to arrive not soon after Aden got settled in the dining room. The first to arrive was Kris Grass, a fellow 5th year and dorm-mate of Aden's. Before Aden could respond a very familiar face entered. Leland Astor, a long time friend of the family. Aden smiled and nodded at the two. "Kris, Leland. Welcome, glad you could make it." Leland than made a comment out Dawn's party and Aden smiled. "Yes, but consider yourself lucky you are here after the decorations and preparations have been made and you leave before its all cleaned away. I can't tell you how much work it is ducking and dodging under servants that are scurrying around trying to get it all done within Dawn's time limit." He said with a chuckle.

Just than he heard the arrival of another guest. "Well, if you have any presents that you wish to discard you can place them there." He said motioning to a empty table. "Please have a seat and enjoy your stay." Aden moved away from them to see who else had shown up. Aden looked upon a young girl, probably a 4th year. Aden couldn't recall her name. He stepped up to her. "Welcome, I am Aden McGrogan. If you want you may place any presents on that table there and also you can take a seat at the dining table along with some of the other guests." Just than a new guest approached, this one Aden had not met either. She gave Aden a gloved hand and introduced herself as Lydia Rivers. Aden bowed slightly and lightly kissed her hand. "Welcome, feel free to have a seat."

Aden let her hand go as she started to talk with the young girl. A few moments later someone else that Aden knew entered. Perseus Feynman. Perseus entered and stood there quietly. Aden approached him. "Perseus, don't be afraid, come, join the party, feel free to have a seat with the rest of the guest." Aden than heard the familiar noise of someone entering using Floo powder. Aden turned and noticed Pansy Parkinson. "Excuse me." He said to Perseus and headed toward Pansy.

She handed him a present and than asked where Dawn was. Aden bowed slightly. "Dawn is currently getting ready and will be with us shortly." He motioned to the present she handed him. "I will personally see to it that she gets this." Aden moved to place the present on the table along with the others. He than heard Pansy begin to give one of the house elf's a hard time. He turned and noticed it was Fryance, no doubt asking for Pansy's invitation. Although Aden didn't feel much pity for the house elf, he didn't want a good servant destroyed, besides, there was a lot of hassle in getting a new one.

Aden quickly stepped up to them. "Fryance! Be assured she did not come uninvited, apologize and and go see if Dawn is ready." Fryance quickly bowed and apologized and quickly left. Aden looked at Pansy, "So sorry for that. I'm sure your drink will be here soon." Just than Wittle approached carrying what was no doubt Pansy's drink. Aden took it from her and presented it to Pansy. "Here you are." He handed her the drink with a smile and than moved back to the entrance of the dining room. A large group had already gathered but Aden knew that even more people had yet to show up.

[Trinity Bleu]

Trinity set her card and present, wrapped in a silky white material, on a table nearby and walked into a large room. The room in front of her was presumably the dining room, inside was a large table filled with treats and refreshments of all sorts. She walked closer to the crowd, her heals tapping lightly on the floor. She smiled politely as Aden began to talk to her but there conversation was cut short when he had to tend to other guests. She wasn't offended as she knew the begining of the party was going to be a little hectic. A girl from her year held out her hand to introduce herself, Lydia Rivers was her name. Trinity smiled and shook her hand "Trinity Jade, I don't believe we have met either," she said politely.

Trinity walked to the large table and picked up a crystal glass handing it to the house elf, "A passion tea," she said refusing to make eye contact with something of his level. She looked around at all the guests, noticing that she was the youngest of the group so far. This didn't bother her, more than less it flattered her, she had never expected to be invited to a party of this nature. She began to wonder when Dawn was going to arrive, it would make her a bit more comfortable to see someone she knew. Trinity took note as the first Queen arrived, it was Pansy Parkinson. She didn't know whether or not she had been formally introduced so she was skeptical on whether or not to approach the girl and talk. The house elf below her tapped her lightly, "Your tea Miss," he said quietly. She took the tea a little disgusted that the house elf had touched her and walked away, in the direction of Pansy

When she approached Pansy she was a little nervous, her hair looked flawless and her outfit was fabulous, none-the-less she reached out her hand to shake Pansy's. "Trinity," she said, "I dont' believe that we have been introduced." She smiled politely before taking another sip. "I wonder when Dawn is going to make her appearance," she said curiously, "As flattered as I am to be here, I don't really know many people here." She looked at Pansy's outfit and smiled in approval, "I love what you're wearing, where did you get it?" She began to get the feeling she was talking to much so she stopped until Pansy decided to reply. Trinity shoved her empty tea glass at the house elf walking by and placed her hand on her hips, ready for the party to start.

[kris]

“Hello, Leland,” Kris greeted the older Slytherin as he approached them. Kris didn’t really know him in person having never talked to him for a bit longer, but naturally he knew Lelands name. He was one of the persons in Slytherin worth knowing after all. Soon two other SLytherins joined them. One – Trinity was her name Kris thought – didn’t come over but Lydia, who Kris personally didn’t care much joined them.
“Lydia,” Kris didn’t bother for a further greeting and looked on with amusement as Parkinson made her appearance. Naturally only the best from Slytherins were invited to this occasion, but obviously there were really many different characteristics here already.

A quick count of tables showed Kris that not even most of the guests had came yet.
“Bring me a glass of Merlot,” Kris ordered a passing house-elf who bowed and scurried of to somewhere. Most probably to fetch the wine. Kris wasn’t really legally grown-up yet, but he wasn’t planning on driving. Besides his legal guardians wouldn’t mind him taking a glass of good wine to accent his dinner.
A few moment later the house-elf was back and Kris took the glass from him, tasting it. Being satisfied with the taste, Kris walked towards one end of a table. It was rather distant from the birthday girls seat, but Kris didn’t care. He wasn’t here to make an impression – everyone who knew him, knew what he was worth. Everyone who didn’t most probably wouldn’t be worth his time and attention anyway. Besides you could learn so much more from the seat he had chosen.

Turning Kris sipped his wine and watched the arriving guests and all of the invited people interacting with each other. He had more than enough time to socialize with them later.

[Mary Evans]

Mary slowly lifted the lid to the velvet covered jewellery box to see what type of peace offering had been given to her this time. A soft smile placed itself on her lips as Mary lifted out the simple gold chain with a heart shaped pendant hanging off it – really the only noteworthy thing about the necklace was the Evans crest in the middle of the heart on either side. That was exactly as Mary liked her jewellery classical, simple, with but one or two small distinguishing features. Her features soon returned to the scowl that had resided there all day though as she remembered the reason for the gift – her cousin Jeremy had begun his summer long visit that morning and he would be accompanying Mary to Dawn’s party. Mary had refused to give the boy more than five minutes of her time all day – insisting that preparing for that evening’s event was much more important and her mother had no option but to concede.

“Vierna! Get in here and do my hair!” Mary snapped knowing the house elf would be near by and able to hear. Sure enough mere moments later the little creature can bustling into the room and immediately began curling Mary’s naturally straight hair and pulling it back from her face save her bangs. Mary admired her reflection in the mirror while he faithful servant remained at work. Mary’s face had little make-up on it – just enough to accent her natural features but appear as if she had none on at all. She was, of course, wearing a brand new dress made of red silk – hand made by her designer for just this occasion. It went to just above her knee and had short sleeves along with a high Asian style neck. Through the dress was an intricate design made of gold thread.

Mary smirked knowing red and gold would not exactly be popular colours that night – but that is exactly why she had chosen them. Everyone would be dressed to the nines wanting to make an impression that night – and there was nothing wrong with that – on the contrary Mary felt the same. She slipped the back on her dangling gold and ruby earrings and pushed aside the elf who had just completed the finishing touches on her hair.

“Jeremy we’re going. Pyro tell my mother we have already left when next you see her.” Mary said to the boys before hurrying down the hall to make sure the driver had Dawn’s gift already packed into the car. Mary would have much rather used floo but she knew it was to heavy for her to lift herself and she didn’t trust anybody else to hold it that long lest it breaks. Seeing everything was fine she slipped into the car Jeremy not far behind.

The ride passed in silence and Mary kept checking the clock to make sure they were not late. Mary was seldom on time for anything to be sure but she knew this was one case the luxury of being “fashionably late” would not be accorded to her. From Quidditch practices Mary knew Dawn expected nothing but punctuality from all she came in contact with.

“Jeremy get the present out of the trunk.” Mary said as she got out of the backseat ignoring the driver’s proffered arm. "Why can’t the driver do it? That’s what servants are for." her cousin responded stubbornly standing aside ignoring the gift that had been placed on the ground ready to be carried up to the house. “Because I told you to do it. Now hurry.” Mary ordered sending a glare at the driver who was standing nervously by looking uncertain as to what to do. “If you do it for him so help me God you will be looking for a new job by morning. Now leave we will floo home at the end of the night.” With that threat hanging in the air the driver took off and Jeremy sent a fierce look at Mary and picked up the gift.

“You’re a bloody brat you know that.” He said to her in a calm voice as they began walking the rest of the way to the door. “And you are here to ruin my summer.” Came Mary’s equally calm retort. “I am not the enemy here.” “Well you most certainly are not a friend” “And whose choice was that?” “Just get up to the house.” Mary finished the conversation in an icy tone as she knocked on the door.

The moment they were in the entrance hall Mary passed the invitations for them both to the house elf and disappeared into the already assembled crowd trying to lose Jeremy while he placed the gift onto the table. She walked out onto the deck and stood looking out over the McGrogan estate knowing she should go say hi but dreading being found before more people were there to hide her.

[Gregory Goyle Jr.]

Gregory stood on the stool in front of the mirror as the servent put the last touches to his suit. When it came to formal suits Gregory was lost, so he had called in a servent to help him. "There you go sir." Said the servent as she finished up the suit. Gregory looked it over in the mirror, than nodded his head and grunted in approval. The servent bowed and than exited the room. Just as the servent shut the door there was a click and a box in the corner opened. Gregory smiled and walked over to the box and withdrew a wraped package. Gregory had not trusted himself with Dawn's present. So in a pure stroke of genius he had placed a locking charm on the box that would not unlock untill a specific time. In the wrapping paper was a box of the finest chocolate in the world. Gregory had ordered two boxes, one as a present for Dawn, the other for himself. He had locked Dawn's away so that he could not give in to temptation.

Even now he did not have access to the delicous chocolate. For the box had another locking charm on it that would not dispell for another hour, and by that time the present would be safely in Dawn's hands. Tucking the box in his arm he headed to the front doors of the manor. A house elf stood by the doors and opened them at Gregory's approach. Gregory looked at the elf. "Tell father I have left and will be back later tonight." The house elf nodded and bowed and held the door open. Gregory stepped out and spotted the carriage waiting for him. The driver had already gotten out and was holding the door open for him. When Gregory climbed in the carriage droped considerably closer to the ground and the horses had to pull a bit harder to get the carriage moving.

Gregory made it to the McGrogan manor in short time and he exited the carriage as it stopped by the front doors of the manor. A house elf approached and asked for Gregory's invitation. Gregory handed it to him and than walked past the elf and made his way to the dining hall. Gregory found his way easily due to the many voices of other fellow Slytherins he heard. Gregory stepped in and noticed many important faces from the Slytherin house. Kris Grass, Leland Astor, Pansy Parkinson just to name a few. He also spotted Aden McGrogan, Dawns younger brother, running around from guest to guest and welcoming them. Goyle spotted the table full of gifts and placed his own wrapped package among the pile. A house elf walked by, Gregory tapped him on the shoulder none to gently. "You, get me a drink." He grunted and the elf quickly bowed and scurried away and came back moments later with a drink. Gregory took the drink from him and than looked about the room at all who had shown up.

[danika]

She stood in front of the mirror in Lee Ni Stea Yaun's studio in Milan, looking at the third of her choices in gowns. She had been sending her designs to Lee all semester long, ass Lee was not only one of the most demanding seamstresses by the worlds top designers, but she was the only woman Danika ever trusted with her work. She had a talent for when it came to fabric that ran as pure s her blood, but she also knew how to follow a designer's orders to the exact detail.

She turned slowly, examining exactly how this dress fit. She had to admit, it was perfect, even down to the jewelry she had a separate designer out of Germany had made. It was a roman tunic style down made out of a pale ice blue gauze fabric layered over a slightly deeper blue satin. It was trimmed in an intricate pattern of gold and off-white, the gold spiraling off and twisting down her arm getting narrow and breaking into a thin chain woven into a diamond pattern with opals before it turned into a ring on both hands.

She nodded approvingly before stepping off the platform she was standing at and toward the fire place, picking up an emerald green box by the fire before she tossed floo powder in and called out her destination, stepping out moments later at the McGrogan manor.

[Vincent Crabbe Jr.]

Vincent wasn't in the best of moods. He hadn't had anything to eat for a full half hour. He was saving space for food tonight. A McGrogan party would always have some good food at it. Vincent would probably spend a lot of his time munching through that. It would certainly be wiser to spend more time eating than he spent talking. Though table manners were something he had struggled to master, he had indeed mastered them. But he always found it hard to talk when there was food around he was not eating. So to avoid talking with his mouth open, he would have to spend most of his time eating. It didn't please him though, that he was denying himself food now. He had about twenty-five minutes left to go before he would arrive at the McGrogan manor where they must have some food, and although he certainly intended to be punctual, that was nearly an hour without food! Vincent's stomach was rumbling at the very thought.

He scowled at himself in the mirror as the tailor bustled around him to fit the suit jacket around the ever changing dimensions of his stomach. Vincent glared at the tailor for pulling the tape measure too tightly, visibly making a note to find another one as he did so. This one just didn't understand that Vincent had more important things to do with his time than worry about his appearance. Obviously it was important he looked respectable to honour the Slytherin Quidditch captain Dawn McGrogan for whose birthday the party, gathering, feast hopefully was in celebration of, but that didn't mean he wanted to spend his whole day getting ready for it. Eating was also a consideration that had to be taken into account and given a great deal of time for.

Finally the tailor had done with his suit and two house elves bustled in to make sure he looked presentable. Vincent checked the gold, not particularly tasteful but certainly expensive watch he wore around his wrist apathetically. He had quarter of an hour left. He snapped at the house elves to hurry up, causing them to jump in fright. For such stupid creatures they recovered remarkably quickly and a few minutes later Vincent was checking his reflection in the mirror. He never much cared for it, but today he looked rather better than his usual form. He was still bulky, but the tailor had chosen fashionable clothes which actually complimented the better parts of Vincent's physique. Something he actually had managed to get right then. There were few enough of those occasions. Vincent collected two packages wrapped in a tasteful dark green colour paper, which was really brought out by the silver ribbon that adorned it, before stepping into the fireplace with his Floo powder and calling the name of the McGrogan manor. He extended his hand with his invitation as he stepped out of the fire, and it was soon taken off him. Vincent stepped further inside to find a suitable place to deposit his gifts, hoping to find Gregory present.

[dawn]

Opening the door, a cloud of steam expelled from the bathroom as Dawn walked through. She just finished a shower as she walked crossed her bedroom wrapped in a towel. Sitting down at her vanity she started with her makeup. She never was one to wear much makeup on normal occasions but one like this she was going to look spectacular. When she was finished she smiled at herself in the mirror. A soft glow caressed her cheeks as a shimmery white and a little bit of blue fell over her eyes. A soft pink lip stick finished the look. Her eyes looked gorgeous; they seemed to just draw you in. Standing up she walked over to her closet. Opening up the doors it was another room. Closing the door behind her, she began to dress in her gown.

It took a few moments until she opened up the door again. When she did, her dresser fell silent. Dawn was dressed in a white dress. It was sleeveless and cut off right before her bust. A hand woven intricate detail played over her torso as it nearly vanished before it hit her feet. It looked like silk. The bottom was thin and elegant. "Miss, you look beautiful. You are truly a Princess." Her dresser said. Dawn smirked as she looked at her. "No. I look like a Queen." Dawn's eyes flickered as she walked towards the woman and sat down in front of her. "Now for hair." Dawn spoke as the woman jumped to her feet and began doing her work.

Down stairs, Dawn had no Idea who all came yet. She was two floors up from ground level and could not hear the door, nor hear any voices. It made butterflies in her stomach. Not even nearly ten minutes later, her sever was done with her hair. "Is this fine Miss?" She said as she brought a mirror to her. Turning her head slightly to the right, then the left she inspected the work. Her hair was up. It wasn't too fancy but fitted her like a glove. It was elegant. Small diamond stones were placed in her hair as she looked around. "Perfect." She said as she nodded to the woman. Standing up Dawn walked back to her vanity and changed her makeup. She used a gray shadow for a smoky eye. It was perfect before, but now it fit her outfit even better. Opening up a drawer with a secret key, Dawn opened a jewelry drawer. It was filled with boxed of expensive and glamorous necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets- anything you could think of. Opening a black boy, a chandler necklace was placed in the middle and two matching earrings. “Put this on me, please.” Dawn spoke as if her sever had a choice. The woman stepped closer as she slowly took the elegant necklace out of the case. Placing it in her neck and clasping it shut she smiled as how it sat perfectly on Dawn’s neck. She put her earrings in herself. They were long and beautiful. The set was both draped in diamonds and emeralds. The green of the emerald brought out the gorgeous green in her eyes. Dawn turned and walked to her mirror. Standing in front of a 360º mirror she looked at all sides of her. The back of her dress was even better than the front. It had cross ties to form-fit to Dawn lean athletic build. She looked like royalty- exactly how she should look.

Turning around she looked at her sever. "How do I look? Honestly, if you say I look bad I will on fire you." Dawn asked as she waited for a reply. "Honestly Miss, you look like your Mother. And that is more than words could say." Dawn smiled as she knew she mother was beautiful. Nodding she turned and made her way to the door. As she opened it she was abruptly startled by her house elf. "Master, A girl named Pansy Parkinson arrived to the party. She will not give me her invitation. Was she invited master? I am sorry to bother you." Fryance quickly blurted out. Pausing Dawn took it all in. "Oh Pansy." Dawn rolled her eyes. "Yes. Pansy was invited. She is just trying to be difficult as always." Dawn grinned as she was glad she knew Pansy was here and on time. Fryance bowed as he darted back down the three flights of stairs. Dawn started on her way.

It only took two minutes to walk down the two flights of stairs in heels while making sure you do not wrinkly your dress. Dawn walked down the last three stairs as she turned to her right and began to walk into the kitchen. Voices rang from the room as Dawn stopped right before the door. Quinn her house elf she grew up with stood at her side. “Miss, Want me to get their attention now?” Quinn was the only house elf who could call Dawn Miss. All the other elves called her master. But, Dawn wasn’t sure what Quinn called Aden most likely still master exactly like his father. “Yes.” Dawn said as she began to wait. Quinn bowed and hurriedly ran into the dinning room. Jumping up on a chair, he spoke. “Attention! Dawn has arrived.” He said as she walked through the doors. And noticed all the people Aden was trying to entertain single handedly. Smiling she walked over to the dinning table and stood next too her seat at the end of the table. “Take a seat everyone.” Dawn sat as she looked at everyone who has arrived. Looking to her right, Dawn saw all of her house elves bring out the plates of food and set them down at ever place on the table. Quinn still standing on a chair said, “Dinner is severed.”

Looking down at her plate, she saw the food made to perfection exactly how she wanted it to be. A piece of salmon with a side of greens, rice, and mandarins. “Glass of Chardonnay.” Dawn spoke as she looked around at the table to everyone.

[Aden McGrogan]

Aden sighed. It seemed he had been able to calm Pansy down and keep her happy, at least for now. A few more guests had arrived. Shortly after dealing with Pansy Mary Evans, a third year, entered. Before Aden could make it to her though she went out onto the deck. Aden looked at the guest that had followed Mary in, he did not recognize the boy. Just than Gregory Goyle entered. Hope the elf's have prepared a good feast Aden thought to himself as he approached Goyle. "Gregory, welcome. I see you found the gift table. I'm sure Dawn will be here soon and than the feast will start. Just wait until you see it, I hear its to die for." Aden said with a wink.

Just than another guest arrived using Floo powder. One Danika Yakov stepped out of the fireplace and into the McGrogan dining room. Aden stepped up to her. "Glad you could make it. Feel free to have a seat. Dawn will be with us shortly." Aden stepped away from her and looked about the room. He noticed that Vincent Crabbe had also joined the party. Aden let out a little grown. Would the flow of guests ever stop? Aden moved to welcome Crabbe but he heard the welcome voice of Quinn introducing Dawn.

Aden sighed in relief. Finally, his job was finished for the night. Now he could just sit back and enjoy the party. Aden moved to his seat at the table. Aden took a seat next to his sister and took a drink from a passing elf. Aden leaned back against the seat in relief and looked down at the food.

[Trinity Bleu]

Trinity was standing quietly in a group of people talking amorously when a small house elf caught her attention. He pulled his small body onto a chair, "Attention, Dawn has Arrived," he shouted loudly. Trinity looked up and saw a beautiful Dawn, sparkling from head to toe - her hair pulled up elegantly standing next to the elf, she had arrived to the party. Trinity's heals tapped as she walked anxiously towards her seat, to the left of Dawn. She hoped that she wasn't imposing but she hardly knew anyone else and felt most comfortable near Dawn. She pulled the chair out and gracefully sat down, being carefull of her new dress.

She looked around the table at the lavish decorations and she was so hungry that the smell of food was making her mouth water. She looked to Dawn and flashed a smile before saying, "Happy Birthday Dawn, you sure know how to throw a party." She lightened her smile and turned her head to look at the other guests. She saw Mary Evan and was relieved that she wasn't the youngest guest, there was also Danika who was in the same year as her. She was glad that she had been invited to Dawn's party, it was a good chance to get to know her housemates, she had been secluding herself lately and felt it was time to come out. Trinity picked up her napkin and gently placed it in her lap.

[Mary Evans]

Mary relaxed peacefully resting on the banister looking out over McGrogan Manor – it really was quite beautiful. Too bad her cousin had to be here else she really may have enjoyed her evening. She was called inside the building soon though by a house elf announcing the arrival of Dawn. Mary came in and looked around knowing this was it for the night – Dawn would allow no one else to arrive. Mary could likely lose herself in this crowd should need be. Looking up at the stairwell Mary watched the birthday girl descend in royal form and lead everyone to the table. Unthinking Mary choose a random seat but groaned inwardly when Jeremy sat down on her left. She really should have anticipated that and found a spot where both her sides were filled – not wide open. She took a sip of water as the food appeared on her plate.

[Gregory Goyle Jr.]

Gregory mingled around the room for a while. His cup continued to run out so he kept the house elves busy in keeping it full. Looking across the room Gregory noticed Vincent step into the room. Gregory began to elbow his way through the crowed to get to his friends side, but before he managed to reached him Dawn had made her entrance. Gregory paused to watch her and than fought his way over to Vince. He bumped Vince on the shoulder and than made his way to the table, knowing that Vince would probably follow him. Gregory found a spot at the table that was empty and he sat down as the food appeared.

He smiled in glee at the site of the delicious looking food. His suspicion had been correct. Dawn's birthday feast was going to be a feast to remember. Gregory wasted no time in picking up his fork and digging into the food.