fp_kingsley (![]() ![]() @ 2011-01-23 15:04:00 |
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RP: The Diagon Winter Festival
Who: Everyone!
When: 23 January 2000
Where: Diagon Alley
Summary: Diagon comes alive for the Winter Festival.
Rating: TBD
Status: In progress
Kingsley surveyed Diagon Alley as it woke up, its shopkeepers arriving with hot drinks and bags of pastries from Tutelina’s, opening up their shops and setting up tables outside to attract customers. Fairy lights were strung over the street, sparkling in the morning sun, and brightly colored signs promised deals and treats from every third window or so.
“Good Morning Minister,” a tiny witch said brightly as she passed, bundles under each arm.
“Good Morning, Madame Primpernelle,” he said back, giving her a little wave.
Even as the shops opened, it was obvious which wouldn’t turn on their lights today. The boarded up windows, dusty doorways, and unkempt buildings cast a dark shadow on the day. But perhaps next year would be different, and the day could bring enough new business to do some good for the shops that needed it. That was what he would focus on. It was nice to see people rallying, in any case- the booths being erected here and there, a little girl with ice skates in her arms running behind a witch carrying a tent.
His thoughts were interrupted by his tired-looking assistant. “Sir, the ice rink is ready, and the informational booth is just setting everything out. They’re ready for you at the Leaky.”
“Ah the press,” Kingsley said with a sigh, “Alright then, let’s get on with it.” He’d agreed to let some photographers follow him around as he greeted shop owners and helped get ready for the festival. He glanced at his watch. Everyone would be set up and the festivities underway in a little under an hour and a half.
“Tutelina’s is doing free cinnamon rolls, sir.”
“Well thank Merlin for that at least.”
“And the Leaky is setting up Butterbeer for people as they floo in.”
“Good, good.”
As they made their way down to the entrance of the Alley they passed a brightly decorated booth full of gift baskets and prizes for the raffle. Two Ministry employees were testing out the ice rink, and a third stood off to the side charming up a sign for skating rules. As they passed the bakery, Kingsley stopped long enough for a roll and a tea, making small talk with the chilly workers minding the table.
"Minister, over here please!" He heard the pop of a flash bulb and sighed, wondering why they couldn't at least wait until he was done chewing. He turned and gave the cameraman a wave and a tight smile.
"Right, let's start in the Leaky," he said to his assistant, "I'd like to get a butterbeer and a photograph with Tom."