Luna Nova

The Grand Hall of the Luna Nova sparkled under the spell of falling, yet unmelting, snow. Instead of formal uniforms, the witches shone in luxurious evening gowns. Diana, in an elegant sapphire gown, gracefully twirled with her partner, while Hannah and Barbara, adjusting their hems, whispered admiringly.

Nearby, a merry band danced, constantly stepping on their partners' toes: Amanda in a bold blue silk dress, Constance in a formal tailcoat, and Jasmine, who managed to munch on a pastry mid-waltz. Even Susie, in a dark green dress, swayed lazily to the music, slipping something into her companion's glass.

Faculty members stood at the laid tables. Headmistress Holbrook, wearing a gold-embroidered velvet gown, smiled softly. Professor Babcock sighed nearby, calculating the cost of decorations, and Croix Meridis sparkled with neon accents on her dress.
Professor Ursula, dressed modestly, excitedly adjusted her glasses, looking out for her star student.

"Akko, don't spin around like that, you'll rip your dress!" yelled Wangari, who was reporting along with Joanna and Kimberly. Akko was wearing a fluffy crimson dress, but she kept jumping up and down, checking her watch. Avery, Chloe, Rani, Rajuni, and Bibi also froze in anticipation: the ball hadn't started yet, as everyone was waiting for the new student to arrive.

The guests from Appleton stood off to the side, near a column. Minister Paul Hanbridge frowned at the castle, considering the evening a waste of time. His son Andrew, impeccable in a black tuxedo, had already turned down three witches with a bored expression. He and his father hadn't danced with anyone. But their cheerful friend Frank was waltzing with all his might with the flushed Lotte, her delicate orange dress billowing with every turn.

"Where is she? The musicians are tired!" Akko exclaimed impatiently, running up to Diana.

The fairy orchestra began to play a solemn overture, and the guests froze, turning their gaze toward the enormous Gothic gates. And finally, the doors opened.