7:42 PM
1348, High Street, Emerald Coastline
"So, this is the place."
Maurice remarked, his voice tinged with awe as he and Aubert stood before the grand entrance of the mansion.
Aubert's eyes widened in wonder as he took in the magnificent sight before them. The estate's grand driveway, lined with swaying palms, beckoned them forward, leading to a majestic entrance framed by intricately carved wooden doors.
The mansion itself was a sight to behold. Its whitewashed walls gleamed softly in the evening light, while terracotta tiled roofs added warmth to its inviting facade. Graceful archways adorned the exterior, offering glimpses of the sweeping views of the azure sea beyond.
Expansive balconies adorned with wrought iron railings dotted the structure, providing panoramic vistas of the coastline that stretched out into the horizon. Lush gardens, brimming with vibrant tropical blooms, enveloped the estate, infusing the air with the sweet scent of frangipani and jasmine.
"Ah, Monsieur Maurice, there you are!"
As they turned around, Maurice and Aubert were greeted by a man with vibrant orange-curtained hair, warm brown eyes, and fair skin, impeccably dressed in a sharp blue suit.
"Monsieur Ignatius."
Ignatius' gaze shifted to Aubert, who instinctively moved to hide behind Maurice's legs, his shy nature evident in the presence of new acquaintances.
"Ah, and who might this little one be, Monsieur Maurice?"
Aubert, feeling a bit shy, instinctively hid behind Maurice's legs, peeking out cautiously at Ignatius from his hiding spot.
Aubert peeked out from behind Maurice, his vibrant spirit momentarily subdued by his bashfulness around strangers.
While typically spirited, Aubert tended to be reserved when encountering new faces, a trait that stood in contrast to his usual exuberance. However, there was one exception to this rule—Dominic, whom Aubert had sensed was someone significant to Maurice.
Maurice chuckled softly, understanding Aubert's apprehension.
"Ah, Ignatius, allow me to introduce you to my son, Aubert," Maurice said, gently coaxing Aubert to step forward. "Aubert, this is Monsieur Ignatius. He's not only a good friend but also my talent manager."
Aubert, peeking out from behind Maurice, offered a timid smile as he took a step forward.
Ignatius grinned, crouching down to Aubert's eye level.
"Well, bonjour there, young man! You're in for a splendid evening at the Charity Ball,"
Aubert's initial shyness began to wane as he caught a glimpse of Ignatius' friendly demeanor.
Maurice, appreciating Ignatius' effort to connect with his son, smiled warmly. "We're looking forward to it, Ignatius. It's Aubert's first Charity Ball, after all."
Ignatius straightened up and gestured toward the grand entrance of Serenity Shore Estate.
"Well then, let's not keep the festivities waiting! Shall we?"
The trio walked up to the gate. Ignatius extended his hand to press the gate bell, a polished brass fixture with an ornate design.
Within moments, red smoke billowed, and a guard materialized before them.
The guard appeared tall and imposing, dressed in a crisp uniform adorned with intricate insignias. His stern expression softened slightly as he addressed them.
"What are your names?"
"Ignatius Flambeau and Maurice Reel," Ignatius responded.
The guard nodded and gestured for them to wait as he reached for a tablet by his side. With swift efficiency, he scrolled through the device, his eyes scanning the screen intently.
After a moment of scrutiny, he nodded in acknowledgment.
"Your names are on the guest list. Please proceed,"
The guard announced, stepping aside to allow Ignatius, Maurice, and Aubert entry through the gate.
The trio proceeded through the gate, their footsteps echoing softly along the cobblestone pathway leading to the grand entrance.
Stepping through the ornate double doors, they are greeted by a grand foyer adorned with polished marble floors, soaring ceilings, and cascading chandeliers that bathe the space in a warm, golden glow.
Sunlight streams through oversized windows, illuminating the spacious living areas and highlighting the impeccable attention to detail found throughout the mansion.
The trio marveled at the opulence surrounding them, their eyes tracing the elegant archways and intricately carved furnishings that adorned the expansive foyer.
Aubert's wonderment was palpable as he took in the luxurious surroundings, his eyes wide with awe.
"Oh, dear, it seems the hired Showmen arrived," chimed a sweet, elderly voice.
Turning toward the source of the voice, Ignatius, Maurice, and Aubert found themselves face-to-face with a charming elderly lady. She stood with an air of grace, her silver hair neatly coiffed, and she wore a resplendent gown that shimmered with subtle elegance.
Aubert instinctively hid behind Maurice's legs, his shy demeanor surfacing in the presence of a new acquaintance.
Ignatius stepped forward and extended a gallant bow. "Madam, it's truly an honor to be a part of your esteemed event. Allow me to introduce my dear friends, Maurice Reel and his son, Aubert."
Maurice bowed, "Thank your hiring me to be the showman for this event, Madame."
The elderly lady's eyes softened as she regarded the trio. "Ah, Maurice Reel, the renowned Showman. I'm Eleanor Beaumont, the pleasure is mine."
With a gracious nod, Eleanor gestured for them to follow her into the heart of the mansion, where the grandeur of the Charity Ball awaited.
Following Eleanor Beaumont's lead, Ignatius, Maurice, and Aubert ventured deeper into the mansion.
As they entered the grand ballroom, they were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The room was adorned with sparkling chandeliers, opulent draperies, and lavish floral arrangements that filled the air with the sweet scent of roses and lilies.
Guests in elegant formal attire mingled gracefully, their laughter and conversation filling the air with a sense of joy and anticipation.
At the front of the room, a stage bathed in soft light awaited, its presence hinting at the evening's entertainment yet to come.
Aubert's eyes widened in wonder as he took in the splendor of the ballroom. Maurice smiled warmly, a sense of pride swelling within him as he observed Aubert's awe-inspired gaze.
With a gracious nod, Eleanor gestured for them to follow her. "The stage is ready for you. I'm looking forward to your performance."
Following Eleanor's lead, they approached the stage. Ignatius, Maurice, and Aubert took in the sight of the elegant setup, and Aubert's curiosity deepened.
Ignatius turned to Maurice, asking, "Is everything prepared?"
Maurice nodded confidently. "Don't worry, Ignatius. I've been doing this for years."
Aubert, still behind Maurice, watched the exchange with curiosity.
Maurice then addressed him, "Aubert, I want you to watch and learn tonight."
Aubert nodded, and Maurice exchanged a silent glance with Ignatius, conveying the unspoken message to watch over Aubert during the performance.
With determined steps, Maurice made his way towards the stage, his posture reflecting a sense of purpose and confidence as he prepared for the show ahead.
As Maurice made his way toward the stage, Ignatius and Aubert found themselves momentarily alone amidst the bustling ballroom.
With a warm smile, Ignatius turned to Aubert. "Would you like to try some of the delicious treats they have here, Aubert?"
Aubert's eyes lit up with excitement. "Yes, please!"
Ignatius led Aubert to the array of tantalizing foods displayed on the ornate tables, each dish a testament to the culinary expertise of the event's caterers.
Aubert's curiosity was piqued as he surveyed the array of savory and sweet delicacies before him.
With a gracious gesture, Ignatius offered Aubert a taste of one of the savory hors d'oeuvres, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he observed Aubert's eager anticipation.
Aubert took a small bite, his taste buds tingling with delight at the explosion of flavors. Ignatius smiled, pleased to see Aubert enjoying the culinary delights of the Charity Ball.