Virtanen Yule Ball 2022 PV Guest List

It was the night of the Virtanen Yule Ball, a ball held by a decently well-known and respected family whose daughter attended the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, her name having been signed on the letter.

An unamused hum escaped the boy's lips as he tightened his black tie. Although he wouldn't normally go for a fully dark outfit, his suit consited of a black collared undershirt with a black tie to match and then a merlot colored suit and pants to match. His accessories were kept simple being that of his family ring that of which was a small silver phoenix with a ruby as its eye on his left hand and a silver watch on his right. Tightening his cuffs once more, giving a light tug, he'd walk over to his fireplace. The party was in Finland, a land he had not travelled to before. Had the party become boring or overly dramatic as pureblooded parties tended to swing, he could merely dismiss himself and walk the streets without a care in the world. Although, he would get quite a tongue lashing for that if anyone were to see him slip out and report to his family.

A scoff escaped him, they all went on an early family vacation to the tropics while he was left to stand in as a friendly face. As much as he disliked parties, it would be much more tolerable without having to be on his best behavior around them. A shiver ran up his spine, he'd still have to behave decently in their presence as stories between everyone's families spread quickly even if you stepped a foot out of line. Shaking his head and running a hand through his hair, of which he refused to gell back, he'd throw floo powder into the fireplace and spoke clearly into the flames.

A second later, a pop and crackle signaled he had arrived, stepping out and observing the lavish scenery around him. It seemed many had decided to use this method of transportation, a few others dusting themselves off a few steps in front of him. Adjusting his clothes, making sure no wrinkles or ash had decided to collect on him, he'd note a few arrivals heading in a certain direction, that of the banquet hall where they'd be dining and chattering for most of the night. He'd shake off the feeling of potentially having to dance with a stranger and followed after a few families. Perhaps he looked awkward by himself, but not letting that stop him, his normal air of arrogance and pride crept up, merely narrowing his gaze as he scanned around. Unfortunately, there were too many faces and back of heads, he couldn't recognize a single familiar face. It was funny his family even got an invitation at all seeing as he went to a different school than the girl whose family extended an invitation, but perhaps their reputation proceeded them.

Quickly finding his seat so that he could continue to observe people flowing in and out of the room in every which direction, he'd note there were others already at his table, a girl with her family and a guy by himself. Gazing momentarily at their facial structures and their outfits, he'd nod in approval, not overly fancy or hard-pressed by any means. Tearing his face away he'd pile bits of food on his plate. The arrangements were quite extraordinary, some foreign foods, some he didn't recognize but everything smelled and looked quite delectable. After helping some food for himself, he'd glance again at his tablemates, noting they had just started conversing he'd dip his head towards them. He hadn't yet raised food to his mouth and instead reached for a glass set in front of him. Noting it was light, he realized it was empty and his eyes scanned around for a waiter.

Before he managed to spot a waiter, his eyes found something else appealing. Halfway across a room stood a girl, one he could never forget. Their duel was full of passion, fierce words and actions to match with. Her eyes were blue, one would think they were filled with innocence, but he knew the determination and fire behind them. Her dress, as fiery as her personality, the red color was well thought out and suited her. A smirk slipped on his face, although his suit was darker than that of her dress they could almost be matching accidentally. Noting a waiter, he abruptly rose to his feet said a quick "excuse me" to those at his table and beckoned them over. With two flutes of champagne now in his hand, he'd boldly stride over, eyes glinting in amusement while confidence oozed from him.

Tonight, he'd meet the fire, face on and get a taste. For some reason, he knew he was going to like the burn that came with it.

Mentions:@Kim Sato, @Eun-ji Lee Hunt & @Aurelia Notresvace

Credits to @Kim Sato for the lovely Banner.

Date: 24 Dec 2022

♥♥♥♥

Dylan had come back for the Balls that he thought he should witness. He was not going to do things that were sort of safe to do. He had to move out of his own safety blanket and do things that were not so safe as he would say. Well going to the Yule ball was one of them.

Well he sometimes missed doing things with Damion. He was not sure if he would find Damion here. But well he had to let Damion go and do his own things. He didn't want to be latching on to Damion. He was aware that Damion had his own life to worry about. Dylan walked inside the manor, dressed in a black suit with black shoes and a black bow tie. Something that he thought was appropriate for the occasion. He was aware that he had to go to another ball the next day.

This was a good way to connect with people. And have a group of friends. Wasn't it? Dylan wouldn't want to be stuck with Damion only and wanted to expand his group. Not that he was letting Damion go as a friend. He walked inside the Virtanen Manor's Banquet Hall. Wow. It looked so beautiful and he felt he was mesmerized by it.

♥♥♥♥

Tag: @Opeila Winters
Words: 215
Outfit: HERE

interacting with @Opeila Winters @Rita Su mentions @Aurelia Notresvace

As Maximilien "Maxi" de Fostoncy [x] English · #586d9d | French · #056b68

Though never cared much about digging into the pureblood history, Maxi decided that the Virtanen family was no doubt an honoured and well-known family, as they were capable of making his grandfather giving up the family’s annual Yule dinner party and joining the Virtanen’s banquet instead just by a single piece of invitation. Maxi was a little sceptical about if his grandfather really knew the Lord and Lady Virtanen well, but anyway, as everybody knew that when there’s a pureblood ball there’s Louis de Fostoncy. And his family, of course, for the old wizard would never forget to show off at such situations. Maxi rolled his eyes when the elves helped him on his suit. A long journey to Finland, surely, and the tight formal outfit would just be as annoying. He wasn’t sure if he’d meet anybody acquainted there, the name list wasn’t shown to him, but in his heart Maxi eagerly hoped that he would - so that it would be less embarrassing.

And finally, they were there. The Virtanen had a splendid estate, which his grandfather was obviously contented with. Almost as soon as they reached the entrance, his grandfather switched into a hyped mood, which he usually had when showing up at such events. “My, my! What a beautiful banquet we’ve got here!” Exclaimed Louis, nodding and smiling radiantly at the hosts. “This is absolutely spectacular, Mister Virtanen and Miss Winters! And congratulations on your graduation, my young lord Virtanen. Your parents must be so proud of you!” His parents smiled and nodded behind his grandfather, and Maxi tried to hide himself behind his parents. Louis obviously wouldn’t give him the chance, and after introducing both of his parents - “My son Vincent, and his wife Mélanie!” - dragged him out from behind his father. “Our dear Maximilien is just about your age!”, and Maxi had to squeeze a formal smile out. “Hello.” He smiled to them and bowed. “It’s…my honour to meet you, Mister Virtanen, Miss Winters.” He let out a relieved breath when everything was over and they could finally make their way into the hall - gah, Finland was much colder than he had thought.

Jaw dropped when the betrothal between Miss Winters and Mister Thatcher, the latter Maxi known as the Ilvermony Hexwizard champion. He couldn’t help but remembering his grandfather’s agreement of betrothal between himself and Mademoiselle Everett three years ago, which ended up as a joke. The Everetts lost touch, and everything was over. He didn’t know what the two were thinking, but he himself resisted the idea of betrothal, even though…he would still do as what he was told. Would they also? Maxi wondered. Do they indeed love each other, or this is plainly a parental choice? And if it is, surely they would fight for their own happiness, right? A bitter smile showed on his lips and quickly faded. Obedient. Sheepish. Maybe these words were only for him. But anyway, putting himself aside, he genuinely hoped that both parties here today could seek their best.

And then the dinner started. “You look lovely tonight, Mrs Menton.” To Maxi’s surprise, his mother was the first of the four to socialise. Glancing at his mother, Maxi could see her smiling charmingly at the lady sitting beside her. “Mélanie de Fostoncy. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” His mother looked beautiful tonight like always, her dark hair hanging loose down her shoulders. She was obviously in a good mood, much different from what she was at home, when she was always lonely and quiet. Maxi felt glad seeing her enjoying herself, before glancing at his father, who seemed completely careless about the conversation and helped himself to champagne. “You have a handsome son.” He heard his mother carrying on, the soft and mellifluous voice making him remember his days as a little kid, when she would still read stories to him. “May I ask how old is he?” Ah, typical talk between mothers. He turned hoping to find a waiter for some drinks, and…

It was when he spotted a familiar face. Aurelia, no doubt, was there charming as always. A sudden shiver went down from the top of Maxi’s spine to the very top of his tones. Auri here, his grandfather here. OH MY GOD. If only he founded out…Maxi was frozen. The secret he had been keeping for so long, the person he had been guarding so carefully - would it be all over tonight? Would…Aurelia be harmed? He couldn’t think. There was no way for his grandfather to see the name tag in front of Aurelia if he wouldn’t wander over there, and he mustn’t have Aurelia notice him and meet up with his family. Maxi tried to shrink himself to make himself as small as possible, when a voice beside startled him. “What are you looking at, Maximilien?” Came his grandfather in their native language, leaning over and looking at the same direction as he did. “Let me see, huh…” He could see Louis frowning, and Maxi’s heart sank. He knew her? He could recognise her by appearance? Aurelia had traits like the Notresvace trademark he, Maxi, didn’t know of? And then it came. “The girl you were looking at just now, over there.” Louis flicked his chin. “You know her?” What should come would always come. “…briefly.” He’d answer after a short hesitation, which Maxi hoped that his grandfather wouldn’t notice. “Mademoiselle Olympia Delacroix. She studies in Durmstrang I think, and I’ve seen her a few times around when visiting Hogwarts.” Absolute gibberish, besides the fact that they were indeed acquainted. Time for the famous part-time story writer Maximilien de Fostoncy to shine. Maxi was very ready to flesh out more details about this certain Olympia Delacroix, if his grandfather was, by any chance, interested.

Reducio

Dora's Dress:

Her grandmother isn't pleased with how far back they're led to be seated. Far from the hosts of the party. She murmurs something to her Uncle Harris, and Dora catches part of it. "...eyes like mine, only polite..." Dora isn't sure why she's upset about this. It's not like the Everridge's are that closely acquainted with the Virtanen's. Maybe it's about some social code that Dora doesn't grasp. Or, perhaps her grandmother just likes to be upset. It seems that way sometimes...

Dora sits by the end of the table, her grandmother on her right and someone sat perpendicular to her left. The name card says 'Amelia Miller.' Dora looks away from the seat, hoping not to be noticed by the girl who takes it.

"Sit up straight." Her grandmother chides, and she does. She takes the soft linen and places it neatly on her lap, giving her hands something to do while she waits. The sound of chatter fills the air as more and more people enter, her grandmother conversing with someone across the table.

Finally, Lord Virtanen directs the attention to the front table, giving a toast to celebrate his son, Lysander, graduating from Durmstrang. Dora knows a little about that school. She remembers how her grandmother entertained the idea of sending her and Bradley to study there when Hogwarts began admitting half-breeds. Apparently Durmstrang doesn't even admit muggleborns, their standards are so high. But, ultimately her grandmother settled on her alma mater, no matter what she thought of the policies. Dora is a bit relieved by this. She's heard Durmstrang students are taught the Dark Arts.

The next announcement is a surprise. Lord Virtanen announces his daughter's engagement to a Miles Thatcher. The name is familiar, but Dora can't remember from where. She drinks to the toast with everyone else, her mind mulling over the engagement. Opeila is a few years older than her, she thinks. So, when should Dora expect to be promised to someone? If she's promised to anyone...

She doesn't say much over the course of dinner. The food is delicious, but her appetite is small. Time seems to fly, as soon music begins to play and guests stand up to move on to other activities. Dora looks at her family. Her grandmother and uncle are speaking with each other, and Bradley is gone. Feeling a little stifled, she stands up and follows the fresh air outside. It's nice to leave the noise behind and escape to the gardens for a bit. The lanterns light her way.

Open to Interactions

Blue in English, Red in Korean

“Oh…hello Kim.” The Ravenclaw smiled at her friend when he finally made his appearance. She half expected to hear his usual “Yo” at first but it was clear even he was forced to behave differently at these events. Her grandparents seemed pleased upon seeing them getting along. “Good evening.” They greeted the boy too, sounding strangely pleasant. For the moment however, there was no time to delve into a longer conversation as the hosts finally gathered for a proper welcome.

Eun-ji sat down and listened attentittively though she was mostly focused on Opeila. The other members of the family were complete strangers to her so she couldn’t care less. When the graduation was mentioned, the witch clapped along with others but once the second part of the speech came to light, the witch froze. She was experiencing a slight Déjà vu. This was precisely what she herself experienced last summer and the Slytherin was even there to witness it. It appeared they had even more in common than she originally thought. Eun-ji barely managed to stop herself from sighing. Her grandparents would be furious and she also thought it would be unfair to Kim. After all, Charles was his best friend and the Ravenclaw didn’t want him to think, she disliked the boy. While she didn’t agree to be his fiancée, she did like him as a friend at least. “See? How lovely! I think the boy goes to Ilvermorny too. Perhaps he knows Charles.”

Anemone sounded awfully pleased and nodded approvingly. “We should get you two rings by the way.” She added as an afterthought. Despite her best efforts to remain unaffected thus far, Eun-ji had to frown at that. For two lovers it might have been a romantic gesture but in their case, it was nothing but a sign that was meant to mark her as claimed. “There is no need. We are still young. Engagement rings seem a bit much.” She retorted politely. Mr. Hunt didn’t say anything but he threw her an icy look, the kind that would safely shut her up every time. “Nonsense. You’ll be married at fifteen so it's not that far off. It is only proper that others know.” As if they didn’t already with the big proclamation at their ball. Then again, they probably wanted her to wear it at Hogwarts, where they couldn’t supervise her. She elected not to comment on the topic any further and was grateful when Kim jumped in.

“You flatter us too much young man.” Anemone said sweetly. To an outsider, she probably came across as a nice and nurturing mother figure. As much as Eun-ji hated her, she had to admit her carefully crafted persona was pretty much flawless. “The pleasure is all ours. We were very honoured by your invitation.” Her grandfather chimed in as well. Not sweet like his wife but definitely charismatic and honourable sounding man. Eun-ji only wished he truly was one. “And don't worry, we know you kids also want to have fun. I promise we won't bother you for the whole night.” Mrs Hunt smiled before turning back to her food. The Ravenclaw allowed herself to breathe once the two adults busied themselves with the dishes. She herself ate sporadically but with perfect table manners. She’d be going to Kim’s place later and there would no doubt be plenty to eat as well. It didn't make sense to leave this event with full stomach.

“How are you faring?” The witch leaned closer to her friend so they could have at least somewhat private conversation. She knew what he was asking. Neither of them was fond of big crowds and social events like these. She didn’t know to what extent it applied to Kim but Charles mentioned this offhandedly and the Ravenclaw herself could tell it was true although he did his best to hide it. People, who didn’t know him or didn't pay attention probably wouldn’t notice at all. The Gryffiindor was slightly off on this one though. Eun-ji hated these events for sure however being here alone with her grandparents greatly overshadowed that anxiety. They were looming over her for two days straight like an ominous shadows. She felt suffocated just being in their near vicinity. “I’m having a splitting headache.” The witch whispered back casually. It could indeed seem like she was simply implying she hated being here yet in reality, she was telling the truth. Sure, she didn’t want to be here but listening to all the vile words the Hunts kept spewing her way when they were alone genuinely made her sick. It was like their special superpower. “What about you? Hanging in there? You must be looking forward to seeing your friends and Charles.” Yes, the Sato Ball was still a social event but at least he’ll have some familiar faces in the crowd.

“Puppet, most people are finished eating…don’t forget the dance.” Anemone tapped her shoulder. Due to the tone of her voice, to anybody in the room it probably sounded like an affectionate nickname for a granddaughter but Eun-ji knew the sinister meaning behind it. Luckily by now, she learned not to react to it. “I will…just give me a second, I’m not done eating.” Alright, she took back what she said thought before. Now that they were pushing her to actually go and talk to strangers, she was starting to remember how uncomfortable crowds made her. Assessing the situation around them only made everything worse. Most of the boys around her seemed confident and intimidating. Besides, a lot of them were already interacting with their friends or girlfriends. All in all, the most likeable and approachable looking boy was sitting all the way on the other side of the table ( @Damion White ). Still, how could she just get up and ask somebody to dance? What if they didn’t like dancing? Eun-ji didn’t want to force anybody to do so. Thankfully, Mrs. Hunt accepted her answer for now. Most likely not wanting to appear too pushy, especially since she was talking to Kim at the moment. The peace wouldn’t last long…she’d be leaving the ball with the Gryffindor so there was no way her grandparents would just let her sit here for much longer but for now, she was fine.

Interacting with: @Kim Sato, Mentioning: @Opeila Winters and @Damion White as Dylan Rhys

Blue in English, Red in Korean

“That’s a nice suggestion but our time here is limited. I think I might have to leave the relaxing for when we get to your home.” There was no way her grandparents would let her take a stroll through gardens unless she did so while making a new acquaintance. Sure, they could not stop her but they would make her miserable for it afterwards. It was not something she wanted to deal with again. “Well, I know for a fact that he is looking forward to seeing you too. He’s been pestering me about it for several weeks now.” Eun-ji smiled fondly not pausing to ask about the other friends. She thought quite a few would come but perhaps they were not as close as she assumed or the very nature of the event simply sucked all joy from the interactions no matter their relationship. If the boy didn't want to elaborate, she wouldn't probe further.

There were few moments spent in comfortable silence when Kim decided to sample some of the soups. Both of them were obviously okay staying quiet in the presence of a familiar person, which she honestly appreciated. It would be even better if her grandparents weren’t breathing down her neck but it was doable. The fragile peace was eventually shattered by a young girl approaching their table. She was attending the Hunt’s ball last summer, wasn’t she? She was also next in line for joining the duelling club. (I assume at this point she was still at the waitlist but correct me if I’m wrong ) If she remembered correctly, her name was Cynthia. Eun-ji was entirely sure as she didn’t tend to pay much attention to new people these days but she was also observant enough to remember a face that had been popping up around her frequently ...especially since they shared the same common room. “Hello,” she greeted her housemate politely. The first year was not here for her however. That much was very clear even before she asked Kim for a dance. “Have fun you two.” The witch waved them off. There was no reason to bother them with small talk. Nobody actually enjoyed small talk. Kim seemed to know her already so she wasn’t too worried about him. She was starting to worry about herself however.

“So? What are you waiting for.” Anemone hissed at her once they were alone. It sounded like an entirely too difficult mission to ask somebody to dance at such huge international ball but it was probably better than staying in her seat. Not that the Hunts would let her. “Alright, I’m going.” The Ravenclaw sighed and she too ventured away from the table. There were far too many unfamiliar faces of various nationalities and age groups. Most of them looked somewhat intimidating but maybe that was just her brain playing tricks on her. As she was reaching the end of their table, she remembered spotting a boy that didn’t actually look unfriendly. Should I try? What if he didn’t speak English? What if he hated dancing or didn’t want to socialize at all? Eun-ji was already second guessing everything before she even reached her target. Nevertheless, she was already here so she might as well give it a try.

“Good evening,” she greeted the blond-haired boy with a friendly smile. “Would it be terribly inconvenient if I were to ask you for one dance?” Eun-ji was always hyper aware of the fact that not everybody liked dancing like she did. Not to mention most of these people probably grew up attending these types of events while she only started doing so last year. It would be completely understandable if he was unwilling. “You are absolutely allowed to refuse by the way.” She clarified immediately.

Interacting with: @Kim Sato, @Cynthia Beaufort and @Damion White as Dylan Rhys

As the glass was plucked from his hand, he sucked in a sharp breath as their eyes locked for a mere millisecond before hers fluttered off elsewhere. His now free hand took the back of the chair next to hers and pulled it out for himself, seating himself next to her, attempting to gain back her attention. Her eyes wandered across his features, a quizzical look on her face as if she was drawing a blank on who he was. If that was the case, which he felt it was, it hurt him a bit, yet he wouldn't admit it to her.

Suddenly she spoke up, in a joking matter much different to her stoic response before. A small grin flicked on his face at her words. "I have patiently waited, and now I'm here. I hope my presence makes your night a little more enjoyable, why are you here alone?" He'd question, a curious glint in his eyes. Assuming his question might be too bold, she'd avoid it or answer it simply, something he was slowly picking up on was that she did not like to make herself vulnerable when responding and was very particular with her words. It amused him, although secretly displeased him as he only wanted to draw the truth from her lips.

Her lips..

Oh right. The boy blinked, snapping himself out of the sharp turn his brain just took him. Another question was provided to him, although now it was his turn to be careful with a response. "The win was not easily sought out, you put up a fight no? Perhaps we just got lucky, the ah.. Ravenclaw girl, she did a number on us." A small shiver escaped him at the thought of being hit with his own spell more than once from an excellently executed Protego, if he happened to run into her again, he definitely wanted tips.

As her eyes shifted, perhaps unamused by his joke, his frown deepened as her gaze lit up. An enthusiastic wave was sent over to the entrance of the room where more families still filed in. Trying to figure who she was waving at, it seemed his presence wasn't forgotten as she addressed him once again. Maxi. A friend. Right... His name was familiar, perhaps he ran into him during their Summer Camp activities. He knew he didn't go to Durmstrang but if the girl knew it there was a good chance he was from a foreign school and was from a well-known family seeing that he was here. Answering his thoughts, she mentioned his last name. The de Fostoncys. It rang of French origins making his nose wrinkle, they were either way too nice or had the ego of the fans of the team who won the Quidditch World Cup. Squinting his gaze, it seemed he was put together from what he could see, making his brows crease together in discontent.

An exhale of air escaped through his nose as he turned his face back to the girl, emotions doing a 180 all over again. Her attention shifted back to him, she wasn't by any means enchanted with him but she was giving him a chance so of course he would take it. "Nope." He'd pop the p before taking a sip of the champagne, the bubbles from the drink fueling his brewing rage. "I'm the sole presenter for my family tonight, they up and left a note saying they were on vacation and were terribly sorry to have to miss this event." Sure he was throwing his family under the bus, but it wouldn't get back to them would it? His knuckles turned white around the drink, the temptation to down it dawned on him but he was to keep his composure tonight. Running a hand through his hair instead, he tried to cool his emotions, eyes fluttering shut for a moment.

Mentions:@Aurelia Notresvace & @Lindsey Springhall as Maximilien de Fostoncy