
Exterior nighttime scene from Nancy Drew book #81 The Mardi Gras Mystery, the group in full festive costumes arriving at the grand, shadowy Seaton Mansion known as 'Bat Hollow' in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Teenage detective Nancy Drew leads the way with reddish-blonde hair, wearing an elegant masquerade gown in blue and gold with purple accents, feathered half-mask, strands of colorful beads, and a mysterious smile. Beside her, Ned Nickerson in a dashing tuxedo or pirate-inspired costume with cape and tricorn hat. Bess Marvin (blonde, glamorous) in a sparkling pink feathered ball gown and elaborate headdress, George Fayne (short dark hair, sporty) in a fun jester outfit or adventurous explorer costume with mask. Brian Seaton and his father Bartholomew nearby in partial bat-themed costumes—dark capes, bat-wing collars, eerie masks with pointed ears. The historic Southern mansion looms behind: tall columns, wrought-iron balconies draped with Mardi Gras lights and purple/green/gold banners, flickering lanterns at the entrance, Spanish moss in ancient oaks, subtle bat motifs in the architecture, warm glowing windows hinting at antique interiors and the stolen portrait. Festive yet slightly eerie atmosphere—confetti in the air, distant parade sounds implied, dramatic twilight sky with stars, vibrant colors against gothic shadows. 1980s Nancy Drew book illustration style, adventurous and exciting, detailed costumes and group dynamic, cinematic wide-angle composition, lively holiday energy mixed with subtle suspense."