ββββββββββββββββββββββββββββ
ππ³π½βπ π
ππππππππβπ πΆπππ ~ππΏ πππππππ: π½ππππππ πππππππΰͺββ΄ β‘ ββββββββββββββββββββββββββββ
β β β β‘ β β β β Λ β‘ β β β‘ β + β‘ β β . + β‘
The rented ballroom had been completely and transformed for the occasion, tastefully chosen decor by Blonde Blazer and the event organizers she hired, seemingly hoping this would be a good incentive for everyone.
Crystal chandeliers dripped from the vaulted ceiling like captured constellations, their refracted light casting warm rose-gold halos across polished marble floors. Velvet banners in deep crimson and champagne gold bore the insignia of SDN, subtle, tasteful.. Everywhere, there were roses. Real ones. Hundreds upon hundreds of them, woven through banisters, floating in glass bowls, pinned to tailored lapels and silk gowns.
It was Valentineβs Day.
The annual SDN Gala β an invitation-only event where heroes and their guests gathered for a time of good fun and companionship, whether it be romantic, platonic and everything in between.
A live band played near the sweeping staircase, the melody slow and intimate, almost teasing. The air carried the faint scent of roses and something warmer β perfume, anticipation and playful banter.
The mood tonight was indulgent.
Masks were optional, though many heroes chose decorative half-masks in keeping with the romantic theme. Lace. Gold filigree. Deep burgundy velvet.
At the top of the grand staircase stood an event coordinator, poised with a glass raised but not yet lifted, waiting for the room to settle. Conversations softened to murmurs.
And scattered through the crowdβ
Outside, the city glittered in cold February darkness. Snow threatened the skyline but had not yet begun to fall.
The coordinator finally raised their glass.
βTonight,β they began, voice smooth and commanding, βwe celebrate partnership β in all its forms and I do hope you have the best of fun and please.. try not to give HR too much of a headache.β
A small laughter came over the crowd, some giving each other knowing smile and with that, the event had truly begun.
