All was ready for the festivities, both public and private. She had decided to make the soiree evening wear rather than fancy dress costume. It gave an air more elegant and exclusive to the party.

Everyone on her long list of invites were there, influential people from the city as well as some of no importance, from the second group she would select someone to start the private festivities in the basement.

The whole house was decorated for Halloween, the dining room and guest lounge holding dance floors and private bar, the conservatory held the buffets with tables, music and Halloween decorations galore.
Elinor checked that her mask was in place then after speaking briefly with the more important guests she made her way to the conservatory where other guests were chatting and eating. Sitting on a chaise longue she studied her guests, one of them would be the star of tonights festivities.

Spying a young woman in a long pale blue gown she made her choice...