Jasmine groaned, staring at the handheld mirror on the table. "You know I'm blaming you for my dislike of politics and all this boring stuff. Like, what does it matter about the starter vs dessert? Why do people need so many special forks? Why can't I just throw some Gryffindors and Slytherins at the same table for entertainment purposes?"

Sirius's laughter rang from the mirror. "Look pup, If you want to do that, I sure as hell won't stop you. The only thing is if they make a scene you'd be the one taking care of it. That means damage control."

"Well, at least the Goblins said that the wards around all the properties are in excellent shape. And the house elves informed me that Slytherin manor is ready for it's first party in many, many years. I'll be taking everyone to France to visit the Delacours and pick up some formal wear and see how things are going for them tomorrow, seeing as the Cullens decided to attend."

Sirius hummed. "Good idea. Gabrielle would love to see you. And I would love to meet the rest of the Cullens," He narrowed his eyes leaning closer to the mirror as If it would allow him to see more behind Jasmine, "Is that where you are right now?"

Jasmine laughed. "Yes. most of them are out on a hunt right now and Esme wanted to try a new recipe she found, so I'm hanging out here. It also gives me an excuse to not focus solely on these stupid seating arrangements. Which, by the way, Do you think Andromeda and Tonks would be okay sitting by Cissa and Malfoy Jr.? Or is that too iffy? I mean, they are both Black Family and Cissa and Andromeda were Slytherins but do you think that Little Malfoy would be able to handle it?"

"I'm sure Cissa would make sure he's on his best behaviour. She's looking to reconcile with Andromeda after all. Though if you wanted to sit The Zabinnis at the same table or near it that might keep him busy."

Jasmine snorted, "Gossiping with Cissa still, hm?"

Sirius shook his head. "It's information gathering, not gossip."

"Oh, it's Gossip all right. You should hear it cub." Jasmine laughed as Sirius gave an indignant huff at Remus's input.

"Don't worry, I know exactly what it is."

"You guys are so mean to me," Sirius whined, but Jasmine shook her head with a fond smile.

"You know we love you. Also Emil Volkov-Goyle responded and I'm not sure where I want to place him. I could place him between Crabbe and the Williams family but he also has a few new allies with light families like the Clearwaters and Jones families." Jasmine stared at the letter in hand, a long sigh escaping her.

"Put him with Crabbe. The families themselves have an alliance that well enough known no one will think twice on it."

"Good enough for me," Jasmine says scribbling something down on a piece of Parchment in front of her "I think that settles the seating chart for now. Don't forget to remind everyone to met there an hour or so early and don't forget the Floo password. I made sure you guys were keyed in by the goblins but to get to the upper levels for the night you still need the password."

"Of course Pup. I'll see you soon. Love you."

"Love you too Siri. Have fun gossiping with Cissa."

Jasmine waited for the Mirror to go silent as she started gathering all the parchments together. "Everything figured out then?" Esme entered the room holding a plate of food, and Jasmine shrugged.

"As much as I can have, I suppose. I actually only have been to like two of these things before and it was for way less traditional families so this all sorta new still. All I know for sure is that these things are like one big pissing contest, Pardon my language."

Esme laughed. "That's how it always is with the wealthy."

Jasmine dug into the food set in front of her, humming in satisfaction. "This tastes absolutely amazing."

"Thank you, Jasmine."

"I'm really you guys decided to come. And my Family is really excited to meet the rest of you.." Jasmine hesitated a moment, "But..you guys aren't agreeing to it just because I want, right? I want you to be comfortable-"

"Jasmine, dear, We are all excited to go. Even Rosalie, though she doesn't act like it. It's an excuse for her to wear formal dresses and all those kinds of things she loves..Not to mention she does want Emmett to be happy so she'd do it even if she didn't want that excuse. We're excited to meet your family and be a part of your life, Jasmine."

Jasmine stared at the remaining food on her plate. "Thank you, Esme. That means a lot."

0o0o0o

"Holy shit." Jasmine took in her surroundings with wide eyes, all other words escaping her.

"It's beautiful." Alice sighed out.

"Welcome Miss. My name is Binsy.I bein the head elf for Slytherin manor and in charge of the party tonight."

"Please Binsy, Just Jasmine is fine. The decorations look wonderful- Thank you so much for putting everything together."

The elf beamed, it's huge eyes glittering. "Miss Jasmine is very kind. Thank you miss. Do you need me to show you to the rooms?"

"No thank you, Binsy, I know the way. I'm sure you are very busy with work for later."

"Please be calling if you need anything else Miss Jasmine." The elf bowed and then vanished, Jasmine turned to look at the other Cullens who had never seen a house elf before.

"House elves are creatures that bond with wizards-or families and occasionally a place like Hogwarts, they have their own type of magic but bonding with a wizard or theoretically any other sentient magical being gives them a stabilizing core to use as an anchor. Most of them choose to be bonded to a family or person, and their loyalty is hard to lose if you truly earn it. Unfortunately there are plenty of people who take advantage of their nature."

After her explanation Jasmine took another moment to observe the area. Most of the guests would arrive here first, and it certainly did its job of first impression. White and silver and pale gold lights twinkled in the air, floating around gently. Glittering snow drifted lazily to the ground, disappearing before making contact with anything. Pine garland had been hung on the walls as well, decorated with white roses and black ribbon. The Slytherin Crest hung above the door, dark stone and silver and an emerald serving as the eye of the snake.

Jasmine led into a hall and up a large staircase. "This is a family wing," Jasmine started, "Which means you can all pick a room here if you like. No one besides those I've authorized can get up here, unless their trusted by someone authorized. In fact it's almost impossible to find this wing if you aren't supposed to be able to."

She continued down the hall peeking into some of the rooms as she went. "I haven't actually seen inside any of these rooms before. Ah. This one's mine, it seems." Sure enough on one door there was a Silver marker on the door, J.P. Lady Slytherin. "Everyone else will be here in a few minutes, so we can wait in the sitting room."

The sitting room wasn't far off. It's walls were light grey, a large window on one side of the room overlooking gardens and rolling hills, comfortable looking armchairs and loveseats were arranged around the room, and a large fireplace at one wall, a large, yet empty, frame hanging above it.

"How long has it been since someone has lived here?" Rosalie asked, moving toward the window.

"A good 100 years at least. Voldemort never got a hold of it, If he had the knowledge in the library alone would have ended the war very differently," Jasmine said, eyes straying over to one of the bookcases held in this room at the sobering thought, "I assume he never knew of this place at all." Jasmine watched Edward examine the empty frame hung above the mantle.

"Why are the frames empty?"

"Portraits get bored being in the same frame all the time-"

It was then the fireplace lit up green and a few seconds later, Sirius stepped through followed by Remus.

"Long time no see, pup!" Sirius wrapped Jasmine in a tight hug and she snorted.

"It hasn't been that long at all. Anyways, Sirius, Remus, These are the Cullens," Jasmine motioned with one hand, "This is Dr. Carlisle Cullen, Esme, Edward, Rosalie, Alice and Jasper." She turned, "This is my Godfather, Sirius and honorary godfather Remus."

"A pleasure, Lord Black." Carlisle offered a hand and Sirius shook it with a grin.

"Please, Call me Sirius. We're pretty much family."

"It's wonderful to finally meet you both," Esme said, "Jasmine speaks so fondly of you."

The fire flared green again, "That should be Narcissa," Sirius said, "With the littlest Malfoy."

Jasmine rolled her eyes but smiled as Narcissa did indeed step through the floo, followed by a very awkward looking Draco right behind her. "Cissa, it's so nice to see you again. You look absolutely stunning." Narcissa looked as noble as Jasmine could ever remember her seeing, if not more now. Her light hair fell loose around her shoulders in calm waves and her dress, a light blue long sleeved gown, flattered her well. Jasmine, however, thought that it was the smile and genuine joy in her eyes that made the Lady Malfoy look as wonderful as she did.

"Thank you, dear. I have to say I'm surprised you aren't yet ready." Jasmine flushed.

"Honestly? I didn't trust myself not to muck something up while getting here. Especially in a dress..Let me introduce you to everyone."

Jasmine went around once more for introductions, introducing Draco as well. She had to admit she was pretty amused by how awkward he seemed, but she stepped over to him with a slight smile.

"Long time no see. Which is funny considering how much time I spend with Cissa now a days."

"I suppose," He said, his stormy eyes surveyed the room for a moment, focusing on his mother who seemed to be in a captivating discussion with Carlisle, "I want to thank you for that actually."

"What?" Jasmine turned back to him, a curious gleam in her eyes.

"She always wanted a daughter," Draco said softly, aware that the vampires could probably hear him but wanting to take his mother's moment of distraction to speak, "But I think she knew well enough that would never happen. Especially not with Father."

Jasmine's expression hardened at the mention of Lucius but she didn't interrupt.

"So to be able to teach you all this, It's really making her happy. And to be a part of the Black family again..Thank you. I could have never dreamed of seeing her this happy."

Jasmine's expression softened. "Hey. Look. I still think you're a jerk sometimes. But like, an okay jerk. Your mother saved my life. You lied back then to. You could have told them it was me. You knew. I wouldn't have spoken on your behalf if I didn't think you deserved it. I'm not ashamed to count either of you as my family. Despite what some of those brainless idiots wanna say."

Draco snorted, immediately clearing his throat and straightening up. "Thanks."

Jasmine smiled, "Besides. If you really bother me maybe Hermione will practice her swinging." Jasmine was clearly teasing, a hint of laughter in her voice.

A light blush dusted Draco's cheeks. "I'd rather not. Are they coming tonight?"

"Hermione and Ron?" Jasmine asked, "No. not to the party, at least. They have the kids and well, this isn't their kind of party. At least not until someone convinces Mione to run for Minister."

"Why did she turn that down last time?" Draco seemed honestly curious, and Jasmine shrugged.

"I'm pretty sure she really wants to straighten things up in the creature divisions before she thinks about running the entire ministry. I never did ask her though, so maybe she just..didn't want the job."

"She'd be good at it, I imagine."

"I have to agree with you there." Jasmine nodded. "So Sirius said something about Zabini?"

Draco flushed again, giving a slight cough. "Mother thinks that I've been going over there more often. Just one of her silly rumors."

Jasmine chuckled, "Well I put him at the table right next to yours. I hope that's okay."

"Thanks," Draco said a little weakly, jumping slightly when the fire flared again.

"Luna! Ginny!" Jasmine hugged both girls, quickly introducing them to the Cullens.

She wasn't surprised when Luna all but skipped over to Alice, speaking in riddles that Alice seemed to understand well enough to answer with her own. "Seers," She huffed, though there was no real malice in the tone.

"Hush you," Luna said with a smile, "We should be getting ready."

Jasmine sighed but nodded. "Of course. Sirius will take all of the guys to his room to get ready, the rest of us will use mine for now. When the event is over everyone can choose a room."

Jasmine was grateful for magic as they not-quite rushed to get ready, and even more thankful for Narcissa's knowledge of the necessary charms and spells to keep everything moving with the help of Alice, Esme, and even Rosalie.

When she was finally ready, after fussing from both Alice and Narcissa making sure she looked 'perfect' she found her bag and pulled out a dark box in one hand.

"Narcissa," at her name the woman turned to the younger girl, a look of question in her eyes at the tone, "Before everything gets so hectic tonight I wanted to give you this, as I haven't had the chance to before." Jasmine handed Narcissa the box.

Narcissa opened it, a soft gasp escaping her despite her usual composure. "It's.."

"Yours," Jasmine said, "It was in the Black Family vault. It belongs to you, as you are still a member of the Black family."

She gently raised the necklace from the box, staring at the black family crest with shining eyes. She ran one finger along the inscription on the back of the pendant before taking a deep breath and placing the jewelry around her neck. "Thank you," She said, one hand still resting on the necklace, "I didn't think i'd ever see this again."

"Like I said, it's yours. Just because you've married doesn't mean you lose the right to wear the Black crest. You are a member of the family and it will be remembered from here on out."

"Of course."

A few minutes later, they were heading down. Jasmine took a deep breath, smoothing out her dress for the third time since leaving the room. "Hey. If I can manage all these fancy parties without hexing anyone you'll be fine." Ginny shot Jasmine a bright smile, patting her gently on the shoulder.

"I don't know," Jasmine responded, "I had to listen to half of these people at the Wizengamot meeting too. That just gives me more motivation." Ginny gave a snort.

"Yeah. I suppose you're right. I only have to deal with everyone asking about the Harpies training plans."

"Woah." Jasmine's attention was drawn to the group that stood in the doorway to the main ballroom. Emmett's eyes were locked on to her, and Jasmine felt her face flush. Emmett moved to meet her, "You look so..you are so beautiful." Jasmine's dress was a deep emerald, carefully selected to match Slytherin's colors, form fitted on the bodice and decorated with intricate silver beading until the dress flowed out from the waist. It was sleeveless, and Jasmine hadn't bothered to glamour away the scars. Her hair was pulled into a braided updo, a black ribbon woven through it.

"You don't look half bad yourself," Jasmine grinned, reaching over to brush imaginary dust off of Emmett's own emerald robes. They were accented in Silver embroidery, the Slytherin Crest standing out on the heart of the robes.

Sirius cleared his throat, causing Jasmine to turn her gaze from Emmett to glare half-heartedly at her godfather. "Hey, Guests will be here soon," He shrugged. Jasmine sighed and nodded.

"Everyone remember everything important? If you happen to catch names along with conversation of those pushing those so called laws try and remember for later. If anyone gives any of you trouble then you come to me, understood?" There were nods all around. As the others made their way farther into the ballroom, Narcissa stared at Jasmine for a long moment.

"You will make a great Lady Slytherin," She said with a slight nod, "Magic has truly gifted you." then, she too moved farther away into the room, surveying the seating arrangements and decorations.

Not long after guests did indeed start flowing in, many of the earliest ones Jasmine knew from her years at Hogwarts.

"Madame Zabini, Heir Zabini, It is a pleasure to host you here." Blaise's mother grinned, and Jasmine could see exactly how she had caught the attention of so many men, despite the rumors that surrounded her.

"Lady Slytherin, I was delighted to receive your invite."

Blaise nodded to Jasmine, who simply grinned in return, "Last I saw Draco was back by the refreshments." She said, motioning them along.

"These things always are so stuffy aren't they?" Jasmine twirled around at the voice, unable to stop the laughter that bubbled up.

"Neville!" Jasmine wrapped the man in a hug. "And you tell me. I'm the host so I have to at least follow most of the rules."

Neville chuckled, "Well you seem to be doing rather well. besides, " there was a glint in his eye as he spoke, "Some of these poor lords and ladies need a little bit of a mix up in their lives, don't you think?"

"Perhaps you are right, Lord Longbottom."

"Lady Greengrass. A pleasure," Jasmine smiled as Daphne's eyes scanned the room, "I'm glad you could make it."

"I wouldn't miss it for the world, Lady Slytherin." There was a delighted gleam in Daphne's eyes as she said it, "Lord Longbottom, a pleasure."

"Lady Greengrass," Neville, who Jasmine could help but feel proud of, took Daphne's hand and placed a kiss to her knuckles, "Please call me Neville. I'm impressed with your input on the last few sessions of the Wizengamot."

"Daphne, then."

"You two go mingle," Jasmine told them, "I'm on door duty for a few more minutes but I'll see you around."

Jasmine greeted the rest of the guests, noting their reactions to her. There were a few who greeted her warmly, some with awe and a few reacted coldly, lacking respect and making it clear that they thought her unfit for her title.

It was Volkov-Goyle she remained weary of, as he greeted her with a bright, toothy grin and pressed a kiss to her knuckles.

"Thank you so much for your gracious invite, Lady Slytherin, I look forward to your future as head of Slytherin house."

"Of course, Lord Goyle. I hope you enjoy your night." Something about his tone seemed off to her, but she couldn't place what. She wanted to blame it on lingering paranoia from the war but she knew better than that as well. Volkov had come to Britain long after the war, after all.

Finally done with greeting guests (or at least the minimum time required to be on standby to greet them,) Jasmine made her way through the crowd.

She stopped to speak to a few people, many congratulating her in her titles and her first official Wizengamot sessions with them.

When she finally found her way through the crowd to Emmett she saw him discussing something with Neville and Daphne.

"Finally free from door duty, Jasmine?" Daphne laughed at Jasmine's expression.

"Finally. I'll have to make the dinner announcement in a few minutes though." Jasmine turned her eyes out to the crowd, trying to pinpoint all of her friends and family, "At least there doesn't seem to be any issues."

Neville groaned, "Well now that you said it." Jasmine laughed.

"What do you expect," Daphne asked him, "We all know that trouble has a way of finding Jasmine. And this time, she's set up to mix things up." Her eyes flickered to Emmett, "It truly is delightful."

Jasmine made the announcement for everyone to find their seats for Dinner, thankful that at least for a little while she could just enjoy the presence of her family without worrying about the political discussions.

"Alright," She sighed as the plates were cleared off the tables, "let's get this started." She stood and moved to a slightly raised platform and created a shower of tiny blue sparks to gather the crowd's attention. Once certain they were watching she smiled and spoke, "Welcome, everyone, to the first Slytherin Winter Ball in over 100 years.I'm overjoyed to see so many supportive faces as I take up the title of Lady Slytherin. I promise that I will uphold the true values of the Slytherin house, And will work to write the wrongs done in the name of Slytherin without any care for the honored name and weight it holds. Slytherin is a respected name, an honorable name and prestigious title to hold and I promise to use the power that comes with honor of the name to better the Wizarding world."

She paused for a moment, before raising her glass with a small smile "To a better future. May magic bless us all." As she finished she took a sip, the crowd following suit. She made her way off the platform and over to Emmett and took his offered arm. "Time to dance," she whispered to him with a bright smile.

She waited a few moments after the music began to lead him out to the dance floor, hoping she remembered enough to not make a fool of herself. However, when she took Emmett's hand to begin the dance she found that she didn't care much at all about the rest of the room. She barely noticed as others began to migrate onto the dance floor.

Instead she was staring at Emmett, a dazzling smile on his face and pure admiration shining in his eyes as he watched her. "I love you," She murmured, gripping his hands just a little tighter and though it didn't seem possible he smiled even brighter.

"I love you, My Lady." Jasmine suppressed a groan but couldn't hide the amusement in her eyes.

"Don't you dare start calling me that," She told him, but a small giggle escaped her, "Are you ready to mingle?" The song drew to a close and the next one began, Jasmine quietly leading Emmett off the dance floor.

A/N: thank you for your patience and support. Things have been rough for me for the last few months, and I've found myself struggling with the motivation to work on this and any other projects I have ongoing.

It may be slow, however I am still working on things. With finally receiving diagnosis I'm hoping that I will finally be able to lessen my symptoms and get back to doing at least some of what I used to.

Thank you all so much for your support, your favorites and reviews and kind words. I hope you enjoy and have a wonderful day.

the next chapter IS in progress and hopefully will be to you much faster than this took.