The jaunt to the elevator was quite short. They only had to go up one level to the penthouse garden suite, whete the ceremony and party were being held. This suite had an extremely large garden patio area with beautiful native and exotic plants mixed throughout. There was even a waterfall like fountain that emptied into a man-made pool that had ben decorated with glowing lotus blossoms for the evening. It was a fairy wonderland. As they entered, a the photographer from Sorcerer's Weekly grabbed Lucy for a quick shoot for the cover if next week's magazine. Laxus was left to mill around until dinner and the begining of the ceremony.

Exhausted, Lucy found Laxus at the bar. He was sipping on a very nice scotch when she approached. "Sorry that took so long. I am ready for a nap, but I think a strawberry margarita might remedy me of the fatigue." Laxus laughed and ordered one for her. They made their way to thereversed dining table set up in front of the stage. Erza, Cana, Levy, and Gaj were already seated, sipping, or guzzling in Cana's case, on their preferred adult beverages. Levy and Gaj were so happy to have a weekend away from their twins to help Lucy celebrate. Levy was already on her third drink and was talking very fast. They all chatted and laughed at each other's funny stories throughout dinner.

The ceremony was short and to the point. Champagne was passed out for a toast as the award was handed to Lucy. She gave a very sweet and heartfelt thank you speech and toasted to the crowd. The second she took her sip Laxus' dragon woke up. He knew this was going to be a long night.

Lucy returned to the table, award and flute in hand. Dessert was being served at a ling table as the dinner tables were being moved out. The dance floor was opened up and music began to play. Once again, the champagne was flowing freely. Cana brought a plate of strawberry tarts over to the little VIP lounge section reserved for Lucy and her party, as well as two magnums of champagne.