Fandom The Gathering of Death Eater Children

[Hikari Chan]

"Muggle films? No..." Aislinn replied surprised. What is that?

"Hmm...I think I have a few that you may like." Alastair smiled. "Have you heard of the Count of Monte Cristo? It was first a book." he asked.

"No… I have not. She frowned. Count who?

"Then perhaps the Man in the Iron Mask? It was another one of my favorites." he smiled with a 'I have decided.' face as he offered her first his hand to help her up, then his arm to escort her.

"Alright..."

"How long do you require to prepare yourself? It is an old-fashioned, rather formal theatre." he asked

Old fashioned...hmm...then I need old fashioned clothes...

"I need one hour, please," She finally replied.

"Very well. In that time, Ravenna shall prepare the carriage, and I shall prepare myself." he smiled, bowing slightly as he turned away.

Aislinn poofed in smoke the moment he turned away from her. She appeared a couple of seconds later in her bedroom at her manor.

"Smooth..." She laughed at her own wit. For the first time in her life she was glad that her grandmother had bought her old fashioned clothes. These kinds of clothing have finally come to good use... She thought as she ventured through her closet.

I think this will do.... She picked out a white shirt with high collar, ruffles, black buttons and ribbons and long sleeves. With it she wore a black long skirt along with a black button corset.

She combed her hair and tried to make a neck bun, but she gave up after several attempts. She combed her hair again and let it rest on her right shoulder. Lastly, she put on a black hat which she hoped would match her dress and a pair of Victorian boots.

When she turned around to look at her reflection in the floor length mirror, something on her nightstand caught her left eye. It was a small black parcel with a familiar sigil, which shone in silver.

As she looked closer, she recognized the sigil. Darkest Creatures' Finest

Aislinn stood there petrified, looking surprised at the parcel. Is it a surprise gift by Crystal? She thought confused. But my birthday is the 22th December...and I know I told her that... Aislinn stood pondering for several minutes until she remembered something else. Perhaps it is Vincent? He knows the store, since I have taken him there twice...perhaps it is a gift by him.... but why? Does he want to apologize about the last time with a gift?

She picked up the parcel in her both hands, turning it around to see if there was any card or note attached to it. But she could not find any card or message. Only the sigil of Darkest Creatures was imprinted at the top of the parcel. She sat down on her bed and opened the parcel. When she had removed the black silky gift paper, she discovered a black oblong box. She opened the box.

A black mask along with a small black card with silver printed text were resting on a soft white cloth. She picked up the card, feeling excited about to find out who had gifted her.

To my dearest Aislinn was the solemn message on the card.

She turned the card around in her hand, feeling frustrated when she could not find the sender's name.

Just who…? She thought confused. Seriously, I have no time with this.... She put the card back in the box, before closing it and putting it on her nightstand.

Aislinn smiled as she appeared in front of Alastair and the carriage. She was feeling both excited and curious about this film thing at an old-fashioned Theater.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"What a charming ensemble you have; perfect for our destination." Alastair returned her smile as Ravenna opened the carriage door for them.

"A film is a series of moving pictures; a recording, of people acting out a story line. If the actors and actresses are chosen well, it can be quite a lovely event to watch one. These days, Muggles go to a film every week, and they go in casual clothing like it is nothing special. I much prefer the old-fashioned way of dressing up to go to a glamorous theatre, and that is why I love the theatre we are about to visit. It is called the Old Times Theatre, located inside the Old Times Hotel." he laughed at the simply obvious meaning behind the name. "It is located in Rouen, and films are shown upon request."

The rest of the ride passed silently, and before long Raven opened the door for them. They came out to a beautiful view as the sun began its descent toward the horizon. The sun usually set around nine, and it was eight-twelve. After admiring the view, they apparated to street level, arms linked. They stood before a grand entrance, made of beige polished marble, so perfect it was like the entrance to a palace, only much smaller in size. A large illuminated sign hung just above the entrance, the theatre's name written in old-fashioned writing:




The actual sign was black, making the letters stand out more.

They walked up the ten shallow steps to the entrance, where a man in a black and white tuxedo stood beside a black velvet rope that blocked the entrance. "Good evening. " the man said politely, "Welcome back, monsieur DiVilliers." he said elegantly. He was an older man with grey hair and a kind face, and a slight French accent.

"Good evening, Sir. " Alastair returned the greeting gracefully as the man untied the rope and held it back so that they could pass.

"Do not ever speak with the manager here...He simply will go on and on about how boring his life is, regardless of how many times you yawn politely. " Alastair said knowledgeably to Aislynn in a quiet voice as the manager came to greet them. "It all starts jovially." Alastair warned as the manager seemed to put on such a happy front.

"My my, Mr. DiVilliers! How long it has been! Good evening, good evening!" the man exclaimed, as if Alastair had just returned from a war.

"Good evening, Sir Marshall. " Alastair said elegantly, using a very formal voice with cold undertones. "Allow me to introduce a close friend of mine, Ms. Monroe. Ms. Monroe-" he turned to Aislynn "-this is Sir Marshall."

"What a charming lady you are!" Sir Marshall explained, kissing the air just above Aislynn's hand as he took it.

"My apologies, my good Sir, but I have promised my lady a film tonight, and she is British." Alastair said in mock apology.

"What does that have to do with it?" Sir Marshall asked, having been excited to begin a conversation.

"They do have ever so strict curfews." Alastair said in an 'It is unavoidable; we must hurry and begin now' way, although he had creatively disguised it all as a joke.

"Of course!" the man clapped his hands together once before turning away to lead them through the grand room. "The finest room in the house for my good friend! Straight away, yes!"

They walked through the room, which had beige coloured marble walls, and a high ceiling decorated with paintings of angels like those found on the ceilings of famous chapels. Flowers of white and yellow ornamented the many small tables spread about, which were surrounded with chairs for people to sit and await their turns. The floor itself was lined with tiny water fountains that spouted like mushrooms, and classical music played in the distance.

"There are three sorts of tickets available tonight." Sir Marshall explained as they came to a large arched entrance with French writing on the arch. "One for any of the films playing already for other people, which is the least expensive. One to request any film you would like, which costs a bit more...And, one where you may choose whichever film you like, and dine in at our exclusive restaurant, which is the most expensive." he informed them. "Which will you take?"

Before Aislynn could say anything, Alastair spoke first. "There was no question from the beginning; only the finest for my lady." he said charmingly. "We shall take the last option."

"Very well-" he opened his dinner jacket, and pulled out two shimmering golden tickets from an inside pocket. "-here you are."

"Thank you for your time, good Sir." Alastair nodded as he took both tickets, handing one to Aislynn.

"You are welcome. Do enjoy your night." the man said as he walked away.

"Shall we?" Alastair offered Aislynn his arm once more, and they walked through the archway, which led into a nicely-lit hallway, also made of marble. "I do hope that you will enjoy the film." Alastair sighed, excited. "It has been six years since I last viewed it. "

They entered the theatre room, which was comprised of five rows of seven chairs, all of which were very comfortable and plush. Just before the lights went out to play the film, Alastair gave Aislynn a calm warning. "The lights will go off, so that we can view the film better. Do not be alarmed." The first time he had viewed a film, the lights had gone off and he had accidentally used defensive magic in an attempt to protect himself from 'enemies.' He didn't wish to have Aislynn embarrass herself the same way. He held her hand for the first few minutes of the movie, and then let go, folding his hands neatly in his lap as he sat his usual way.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Aislinn blushed when Alastair complimented her attire. Well....my grandmother's care about me was not wasted unnecessarily after all...

"So…what is a film...?" She asked when she had entered the carriage.

"A film is a series of moving pictures; a recording, of people acting out a story line. If the actors and actresses are chosen well, it can be quite a lovely event to watch one. These days, muggles go to a film every week, and they go in casual clothing like it is nothing special. I much prefer the old-fashioned way of dressing up to go to a glamorous theatre, and that is why I love the theatre we are about to visit. It is called the Old Times Theatre, located inside the Old Times Hotel." he laughed at the simply obvious meaning behind the name. "It is located in Rouen, and films are shown upon request."

"Oh..." And as usual he gave me more information than I asked about.... She thought amused as she tried to understand the description of a film. A series of moving pictures....is it like wizarding pictures? She was confused about it and wondered if she really would enjoy watching a series of animated pictures. I could literary look in a photo album...well I'll see how this turns out like...anyway, did he just say that the theater was located in Rouen? ...Rouen....Rouen...it sounds so familiar....

Aislinn sat silent during the ride as she pondered of where she had heard of Rouen before. Rouen....Rouen......oh...now I remember......

"For you, my lady-" Alastair bowed as the picnic basket opened itself. A black and white checker sheet lay itself flat as the food plated itself and the drinks poured themselves gracefully. "-I have brought the finest food in Rouen."

"I shall return in 6 hours. Airplanes take twelve hours, from Rouen to London...What fools."

...Is there a coincidence that Alastair took me to Rouen for picnic in a park and now to a Theater......it is his hometown after all...or perhaps he just like the place...

When they arrived at their destination, Aislinn almost forget about the Theater because of the breathtaking view of sunset. What a relaxing view... She thought with a content sigh. She was then reminded about the purpose of coming to this place with Alastair when he led the way to the Theater.

"Understood..." Aislinn replied quietly when Alastair had warned her to not speak with the manager of the Theater. She looked a little alarmed at the manager as he approached them. He looks to be way to talkative...Merlin's beard...

"Erhm...Hello...good evening..." She greeted nervously when Alastair had introduced her.

"What a charming lady you are!" Sir Marshall explained, kissing the air just above her hand as he took it.

She tried not to snatch her hand away. The bloody hell, I gave you my hand to shake, not to kiss... She thought for herself.

"My apologies, my good Sir, but I have promised my lady a film tonight, and she is British." Alastair said in mock apology.

Huh? What does Alastair mean…? She thought amusingly.

"What does that have to do with it?" Sir Marshall asked, having been excited to begin a conversation.

"They do have ever so strict curfews." Alastair said in a 'It is unavoidable; we must hurry and begin now' way, although he had creatively disguised it all as a joke.

Really? She tried not to burst out in laughter and used all her force to keep a straight face. So many times I used to be out of my bed during the nights at Hogwarts....so many times I used to go to a muggle nightclub whenever a rock band played during my holidays...strict curfews heh?

"Of course!" the man clapped his hands together once before turning away to lead them through the grand room. "The finest room in the house for my good friend! Straight away, yes!"

"There are three sorts of tickets available tonight." Sir Marshall explained as they came to a large arched entrance with French writing on the arch. "One for any of the films playing already for other people, which is the least expensive. One to request any film you would like, which costs a bit more...And, one where you may choose whichever film you like, and dine in at our exclusive restaurant, which is the most expensive." he informed them. "Which will you take?"

Aislinn was about to speak to tell her choice of the second option. She thought it would be a good choice since she expected Alastair wanted to choose the film for them. But just when she opened her mouth, he beat her to it.

"There was no question from the beginning; only the finest for my lady." Alastair said charmingly. "We shall take the last option."

But... Aislinn thought as she blushed. Really, I would be fine with the second option.... sigh...he is so sweet towards me...spoiling me this much... She looked happily towards him as she took the golden ticket when he handed it to her and she wondered if the other tickets were colored differently for different options, such as bronze for the first option and silver for the second option when the third and most expensive was gold.

"I do hope that you will enjoy the film." Alastair sighed, excited. "It has been six years since I last viewed it."

"Aha..." She smiled as she took a seat in a very comfortable chair beside him in the Theater room. She was suddenly taken by surprise when the lights turned off despite his warning. "Oh..." She said when it suddenly become dark and a white cloth was lit in front of them.

Aislinn was so absorbed by the film, that she did not notice that Alastair was sitting with a straight back with his hands folded in his lap. She on the contrary was sitting in a more relaxed position as if she was sitting in her own armchair.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"How did you like the film?" Alastair asked as the end-credits played and the lights switched back on.

"I am glad you enjoyed the plot to its fullest. Were you satisfied with the ending?" he asked. "It was supposedly happy, although D'artagnan was killed." he sighed in a 'I wish that hadn't happened.' sort of a way.

"Off to dinner, then." he offered her his arm, and they walked out of the archway, walking to the left, further inside the hotel. Soon, they came across the restaurant. It was closed off from the rest of the hallway by a stained-glass wall that portrayed more angels like the ones on the ceiling, dining together gratefully.

"Welcome to Old Times Restaurant." a young man said elegantly, opening the door for them.

"Thank you." Alastair said as they passed him.

"Welcome, Monsieur DiVilliers. " the host greeted him. "Would you like your usual table?" he asked helpfully. He was much more formal than the manager as he spoke, and gave the feeling that he knew Alastair had no desire to stop for idle chatter. "No, thank you. I will take one by the window on this pleasant evening." Alastair said.

"Very well. Please follow me." The host led them up a flight of four shallow steps, and to a table for two that was set right beside the window, giving a splendid view of the city. Since it was dark outside, the lights of the buildings shined beautifully as they gazed upon it from the height of their four-story location.

"Wondering how we got so high up when we climbed no stairs?" Alastair laughed once they had been seated and served menus. "We climbed gradually in the hallway; so subtle, was it not? It was charmed that way, so that no stairs or elevators are necessary to reach this perfect height."

"Would you like some wine to start, Sir?" a waiter asked.

"No, thank you. Just iced water for me, if you please." Alastair responded. "The coldest water possible."

"And you, mademoiselle?" the waiter turned to Aislynn.

Alastair gave her a 'don't worry about the price, order whatever you wish' gaze.

"We will require, perhaps, ten minutes to decide on our order. " Alastair stated before the waiter could ask if they were ready to order yet. "Thank you, Sir." he added.

The waiter bowed shallowly, and walked away, returning a moment later with their drinks, then walking away again wordlessly.

"Would you like my recommendations, or would you like to order yourself?" he asked.

The menu was in French, but he pointed his finger at it, and at once the words re-arranged themselves to form English translations. The restaurant was decorated the same way as the lobby and hallways, except that beige, silk curtains surrounded the windows, and tall flower vases replaced the small ones in the hallways.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"It was such a great film..." Aislinn replied amazed. It was more animated than I imagined it to be. People spoke and moved fully on the pictures....

"I am glad you enjoyed the plot to its fullest. Were you satisfied with the ending?" Alastair asked. "It was supposedly happy, although D'Artagnan was killed." he sighed in a 'I wish that hadn't happened.' sort of a way.

"Hmm....I think it was a good ending after all..." She replied and took his arm as he led the way to the restaurant. She was hoping it was not that expensive, but her guts told her otherwise.

..it looks expensive... She tried not to stare as she entered the restaurant.

She looked out through the window beside the table which he had chosen, and almost gasped when she discovered that they were so high up. And I who thought we have been on ground level the entire time...

"Wondering how we got so high up when we climbed no stairs?" he laughed once they had been seated and served menus. "We climbed gradually in the hallway; so subtle, was it not? It was charmed that way, so that no stairs or elevators are necessary to reach this perfect height."

"Oh...." Aislinn was amazed and could hardly take away her eyes from the window view.

"Would you like some wine to start, Sir?" a waiter asked.

"No, thank you. Just iced water for me, if you please." Alastair responded. "The coldest water possible."

"And you, mademoiselle?" the waiter turned to Aislinn.

Alastair gave her a 'don't worry about the price, order whatever you wish' gaze.

"Uhm...water..." She replied, blushing. "I'll also take ice cold water..." She almost bit her tongue when she realized how she had spoken. Merlin's beard Aislinn, that is not how you speak in luxury restaurant...I should have said I would like cold water please....

"Would you like my recommendations, or would you like to order yourself?" Alastair asked when they had been served their drinks.

She looked in the menu when he had magically translated it from French to English for her.

"Thank you," She smiled before eyeing the list of dishes. Since she did not recognize any of the dishes, she assumed that they must be French. Merlin's beard...I have no idea what these dishes costs or how they taste like...so the best is...

"I would like your recommendations, please" She said as she put the menu down.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Very well, my lady." Alastair said with a small smile. "Only the finest for you." He picked up his menu and read it through twice, refreshing his memory of the dishes there.

When the waiter came back ten minutes later, just as instructed, and ordered their entire meal in flawless French. "....merci." he finished.

The waiter bowed another shallow bow, and made for the kitchens.

"Enjoy, my lady." Alastair smiled as the food arrived. "Do beware of the potatoes; they are baked in a garlic sauce." he said, pointing to one of the two potato dishes. "I apologize; I adore the meal. However-" he said seriously "-if the smell bothers you, I will have them take it away immediately."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Thank you..." Aislinn smiled as she blushed deeply.

"Enjoy, my lady." Alastair smiled as the food arrived. "Do beware of the potatoes; they are baked in a garlic sauce." he said, pointing to one of the two potato dishes. "I apologize; I adore the meal. However-" he said seriously "-if the smell bothers you, I will have them take it away immediately."

The meal consisted of three kind of dishes.

The first dish was Soupe à l'oignon, an onion soup based on meat stock and grated cheese and croutons on top. The second, and main dish, was chicken braised in red wine, lardons and mushrooms along with two different kind of baked potatoes: baked potatoes with Aioli sauce, sauce made of garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and egg yolks and Aligot, a sauce made of mashed potatoes blended with young Tomme cheese. And the third dish was Salade Aveyronaise, a salad consisting of lettuce, tomato, Roquefort cheese and walnuts

"Oh it is alright," Aislinn smiled. "The smell does not bother me at all. I just don't like the aftermath taste of it after I have eaten it. I will have the other kind of baked potatoes."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Very well." Alastair smiled, and before they began to eat he picked up his glass of water, and held it up to toast Aislynn. "To you, my lady." he said in a soft, loving voice. He drank a few sips after they had toasted, and then began his meal with his usual strict manners.

"Is the meal to your liking?" he asked once Aislynn had had a chance to taste everything, putting down his fork and knife and speaking in a serious tone. His mannerisms suggested that he would rather have the waiters take everything back and order a completely different set of dishes than have Aislynn settle for something she wasn't completely enjoying.

"Splendid." he smiled contentedly, resuming his meal. Alastair looked out the window in between bites, savoring both the food and the view.

When the ice had melted a bit, he called a waiter and asked for more. Before he walked away, he turned to Aislynn. "Is there anything you require?"

The waiter nodded, and walked away, returning a minute later.

"I shall pay you by the end of the month for this lovely dinner. Thank you." Alastair had said in French to the host of the Old Times Restaurant.

"Is there anywhere you would like to go now, my lady?" Alastair asked as they walked out of the restaurant, with her holding his arm. "It is eleven o' nine in Rouen, our current location." he said, checking his pocket watch. "That means that it is ten o' nine in London. So-" he replaced his watch in his pocket "-we can still do something else before we retire for the night."

They were now in the grand hallway, and had just passed the movie theatre entrance.

"We could get dessert from Antique, if you wish." he smiled. "I did not offer you dessert at the Old Times Restaurant, because their desserts cannot compare to Antique's." he said with a joking pout that clearly said '...Only the best for you...'

 

[Hikari Chan]

"To you, my lady." Alastair said in a soft, loving voice.

Aislinn rose her glass with a smile and toasted with him.

She drank one sip of water before she started with the soup, eating almost half of it until she remembered to taste the main dish and the salad as well. She had become so hungry because she had thrown up the entire lunch several hours ago, that she almost forgot to taste a bit of every dish before going ahead with the first dish.

"Is the meal to your liking?" he asked.

"It is lovely," She smiled, for tasting French food for the first time.

"Splendid." he smiled contentedly.

When the ice had melted a bit, he called a waiter and asked for more. Before he walked away, he turned to Aislinn. "Is there anything you require?"

"Ehm...." She blushed slightly. "I'd like more water please." She had drunk three quarter of her glass and felt that she needed a refilling because the main dish had made her so thirsty.

"Is there anywhere you would like to go now, my lady?" Alastair asked as they walked out of the restaurant, with her holding his arm. "It is eleven o' nine in Rouen, our current location." he said, checking his pocket watch. "That means that it is ten o' nine in London. So-" he replaced his watch in his pocket "-we can still do something else before we retire for the night."

"Mmm...I'd like to eat something sweet..." Aislinn replied.

"We could get dessert from Antique, if you wish." he smiled. "I did not offer you dessert at the Old Times Restaurant, because their desserts cannot compare to Antique's." he said with a joking pout that clearly said '...Only the best for you...'

"Alright..." She chuckled. I hope he can decide for one kind of dessert this time... She thought amused as she remembered the several kinds of desserts he had brought because he could not decide for one kind when they had picnic in the park a couple of days ago.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Alastair smiled, and they continued walking out of the hotel. As they descended the shallow stairs at the front, Alastair was relieved that the talkative manager's shift ended at nine. "My lady?" Alastair asked with a gentle look in his eyes. "Would you care to travel with me...the way a demon does?"

With her permission, he approached her slowly. "You trust me, do you not?" he asked, although it was more of a statement. "You know I would never intentionally harm you." He put his arms around her in an embrace, which lasted for one sweet second that seemed much longer. Then, he picked her up, just as he had done in the Theatre of Game, and jumped. The ground shrank beneath them, and the city shined beautifully below them. They were high up in the sky, surrounded by thin clouds and seemed to be close to the glowing moon. The air blew their hair picturesquely, and Alastair gazed down lovingly at Aislynn as he held her firmly. He seemed to almost fly for ten seconds, when really he was still ascending slowly. "Are you doing alright?" he asked, in case he had scared her in his suddenness that was meant to be a surprise.

Then, they began their descent, which was much smoother than expected after the fast incline. "Here we are..." he said elegantly as he put her down on the sidewalk, having landed ever so softly. "You tried my favorites last time, so now you know what some of the desserts are like here. This time, we will try to limit ourselves to perhaps one..." he laughed as he walked toward the bakery's entrance, as if they had merely taken the car. The way he said the word perhaps...It was like that, of all things, was going to give him a difficult time. He opened the door for her, with a joyous look in his eyes. That trip with her....was magnificent...And now she is entering another one of my favorite places...

From outside, the cafe looked as if it would be a simple French cafe, with a white-painted wooden door and a bell attached on the inside. But the inside was unimaginably different. The whole cafe was shaped like a semi-circle on the inside, with the dessert displays surrounding the area from the left of the door to the right, although it was quite spacious. The black, spindly-legged tables and chairs were positioned in the middle of the semi-circle, so that it felt as if, no matter where you stood, you were being surrounded by the desserts and breads. The walls were painted white, and had murals of intricately painted scenery; a park, a cheerful forest, an Oceanside, the Eiffel Tower in front of a stunning sunset, etc. The ceiling was enchanted like the Hogwarts ceiling; you could see the breathtaking night sky clearly through it. The floor was even more intricate still; it was marble, beige and white marbled to create a swirling-looking texture. Behind each tile was a different sort of dessert that the restaurant offered, and each picture had an odd effect: it seemed to have substance to it, although there was none, similar to a Muggle's 3D-poster.

The items on display were so whimsical; there weren't just French desserts: there was nearly every kind of dessert imaginable. Then, there were the ones that the chef had invented himself, which looked both odd and alluring at once. There were no waiters in sight. The items that customers ordered boxed themselves with the utmost care as the money counted itself and placed itself in the register, which handed out receipts and business cards. All the while, more items would fly in from the kitchens, and begin displaying themselves elegantly. Trays with tea and desserts skirted around the edges of the bakery, before laying themselves on the tables who had ordered for them.

"Are you enjoying the decor?" Alastair smiled.

"Lovely. Allow me to select a table..." he trailed, looking around for the perfect one, before turning back to Aislynn. "Now, wait until you see how to order!" he said, the familiar excited look in his eyes. "Firstly, choose what you wish. Don't worry about limiting yourself." he smiled encouragingly.

Once Aislynn had chosen her desserts, he smiled and took her by the shoulders, leading her away from the display. "...Such a lovely choice." He stopped at a certain place, then said "Look down." Aislynn was standing on the tile of the first dessert she had chosen. "Say the word 'please' clearly, as if you are giving a polite order." Alastair instructed.

When she did so, the dessert she had chosen rose from its position on the display, and plated itself delicately, before flying to Alastair. "Over there, please." he indicated his chosen table.

"My turn." Alastair said with a mischievous 'watch me' smile. His eyes flashed momentarily to the speakers in each corner of the room, which had been playing light classical music, and they began playing a smooth yet energetic instrumental song:



He stood up straight, looked around for the two squares he wanted, and then began. He danced his way to the first square, moving so elegantly with flowy moves. It was not a specific type of dance; it was like he had combined Tango and Salsa into a masterpiece. He put one foot down on a chocolate rose square; a new recipe that was similar to a chocolate bomb, only molded in the shape of a rose. "Please." he breathed, bending his body backward and putting a hand against his head as if he couldn't go on, his eyes locked to Aislynn's in a pleading 'join me' face when the song had reached the 48 second mark.

Alastair took hold of Aislynn's right hand, his left hand at her back. "Allow me to lead you, my lady. Please relax into it." he instructed helpfully at the 90 second mark.

They danced to the next square, and Alastair was a spectacular leader; they didn't make one mistake. "Nearly there." Alastair said as they were one square away from his desired eclair square. "Please-" Alastair said once they stopped, in perfect sync, just as the song ended. It was unclear if he was speaking to the tile or to Aislynn "-tell me, did you enjoy that?" he continued. The plated eclair passed them and set itself down just as Alastair threw his coins into the air, which went straight to the cash register.

Several of the customers seated at the tables began applauding bemusedly, having enjoyed the show. The music returned to normal, and Alastair and Aislynn took a seat on either side of a table by the right-side window.

"May I have some milk, please?" Alastair asked the drinks display, and a tall glass of milk flew obediently to the table.

"Are they to your liking?" he asked once she had tried the dessert/s.

"Would you like to try mine?" he smiled.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Travel with a demon?...

"Uhm.... yes..." Aislinn replied quietly, her voice almost a whisper.

"You trust me, do you not?" Alastair asked, although it was more of a statement. "You know I would never intentionally harm you."

As reply she quietly put her arms around his neck just when he put his arms around her in an embrace. A second later, she felt the rush of air, the tingling sensation in her tummy of leaving the ground.

"Are you doing alright?" he asked.

"YEAH I AM FINE..." She did not mean to scream. She just could not hear herself speaking because her ears were clogged for being so high up in the air.

Then, they began their descent, which was much smoother than expected after the fast incline.

"Here we are..." he said elegantly as he put her down on the sidewalk, having landed ever so softly. “You tried my favorites last time, so now you know what some of the desserts are like here. This time, we will try to limit ourselves to perhaps one..." he laughed as he walked toward the bakery's entrance.

Perhaps one? I am definitely going to have one kind of dessert... Aislinn thought and smiled happily as he opened the door for her. She hurried to comb her messy hair with her fingers before entering the cafe. She had straight and smooth hair, but no matter how much she combed it in beforehand, the wind always seemed to mess it up.

Aislinn almost gasped in surprise when she entered the cafe.

"Oh...." Merlin's beard.... the interior is breathtaking...and oh my goodness so many desserts... Her mouth watered when her eyes fell on the different kinds of chocolate desserts. She literary neglected her determination about only choosing one dessert.

"Are you enjoying the decor?" Alastair smiled.

Aislinn nearly jumped, realizing that she had been so absorbed by not just the interior but also the desserts.

"Yes...it is so breathtaking," She replied nervously, wondering if she had been staring with an open mouth or not. Merlin's beard, I must not get too carried away....

"Lovely. Allow me to select a table..." he trailed, looking around for the perfect one, before turning back to her.

"Now, wait until you see how to order!" he said, the familiar excited look in his eyes. "Firstly, choose what you wish. Don't worry about limiting yourself." he smiled encouragingly.

She laughed nervously before turning her attention towards the display of desserts. Choose two, two is fine.... but oh, this is so hard...

She ended up choosing three kinds of desserts.

Alastair smiled and took her by the shoulders, leading her away from the display. "...Such a lovely choice."

She blushed and debated for a second if she had chosen to much or if it was normal to eat three different kinds of desserts at once.

He stopped at a certain place, then said "Look down."

She looked down and noticed that she was standing on the tile of the first dessert she had chosen.

"Say the word 'please' clearly, as if you are giving a polite order." he instructed.

"Please," She said and the dessert she had chosen, rose from its position on the display, and plated itself delicately, before flying to Alastair. "Over there, please." he indicated his chosen table.

"Oh..." Aislinn was amazed and surprised by the way desserts were ordered and served. She walked around on the floor, looking for two other tiles which represented the two remained desserts which she had chosen and then she continued with the same procedure to order the them and of they went to table, which Alastair had chosen for them.

"My turn." he said with a mischievous 'watch me' smile.

Aislinn gave him an exciting and curious smile. Then suddenly the classical music changed to a more energetic and instrumental one. Surprised, she watched him dance his way over the squares to order one dessert. Then his eyes locked to hers in a pleading 'join me' face.

She laughed excitingly and gladly joined him. She took hold of his right hand and put her left hand on his shoulder.

"Allow me to lead you, my lady. Please relax into it." he instructed helpfully.

She laughed happily and enjoyed it as he led her around in a dance, to a different kind of music than classical, to the next tile.

"Please-" Alastair said once they stopped, in perfect sync, just as the song ended. It was unclear if he was speaking to the tile or to Aislinn "-tell me, did you enjoy that?" he continued.

"I loved it," She chuckled happily, her eyes glittering and her cheeks rosy after the excited dance.

She took a seat in front of him at their table by the window and wondered if it was possible to order anything to drink something, because chocolate always made her thirsty. Her eyes fell on the drinks display when Alastair ordered a tall glass if milk.

"May I have hot chocolate please," Aislinn said without thinking and a tall cup of hot chocolate with fluffy cream at the top flew to her at the instant. She then noticed that Alastair had only ordered two desserts and she three desserts. And hot chocolate above of it all... She thought embarrassed before tasting her desserts.

"Are they to your liking?" he asked.

"Mmm....delicious..." She smiled and blushed.

"Would you like to try mine?" he smiled.

"Thank you, but no..... I actually also got a chocolate bomb..." She chuckled.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Thank you for joining me on this lovely night." Alastair breathed contentedly as he looked out the window, his profile so picturesque. "I love how you do not care about who is watching you..." he referred to her joining him in the dance moments ago, rather than shy away. Technically, the bakery hadn't meant to be used for a place to dance, so it wasn't the most appropriate thing to do in that setting. "These desserts were so very sweet..." he smiled, looking romantically into her eyes. "...but you are incomparably sweeter..." he finished genuinely, unintentionally leaning forward just a bit.



When they finished, the dishes cleared themselves, and they each received a scented picture of the one of the desserts they had eaten. On the back there was an explanation about a promotion; if you collected six of the pictures, you would receive a free dessert by trading them all in. "How charming...I would rather keep the pictures, since they smell so lovely." Alastair commented once he had finished reading the back of his picture. "Shall we?" he offered Aislynn his hand, and they left the cafe.

"Would you like to call Ravenna so that she can bring the carriage, or would you like to travel to her the way we came?" he referenced the jump he had performed earlier with a charming smile.


"Raven? I need you, it's urgent." Luna said gravely to Raven's feather. "Please..." She was close to tears as she held in her hands Alastair's discarded wand. There were no signs of struggle, but Alastair was nowhere to be found.

"What may I assist you with?" Raven landed beside Luna a minute later, bowing calmly.

"I cannot find Alastair...and now, his wand is still here...I think something-" Luna began quietly as she wore a worried expression.

"-Do not worry." Raven interrupted. "He is perfectly fine." she said genuinely.

"Then what is this?" Luna asked, holding up the wand so that Raven could see it for herself.

"A fake wand...He was playing a joke with Aislynn, that's all." Raven stated matter-of-factly.

"Oh...Thank you. I apologize for interrupting you." Luna breathed, relieved. "Please, return to Alastair in case he needs you."

"No bother at all, my mistress." Raven bowed. "Your concern is understandable. However, permit me to ask; why you were combing through the hedges of the labyrinth?"

"I wasn't; Nagini was on one of her night-time....walks...as you might call them. She thought it was a cause for concern, and I agreed." Luna explained quietly.

"I see. Please, rest well, my mistress." Raven bowed again before flying off, should Alastair need her.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"No need to thank me," Aislinn smiled lovingly. Having finished the two first desserts, she was munching on her third one and sipping hot chocolate.

"These desserts were so very sweet..." he smiled, looking romantically into her eyes.

She had just finished her third dessert and the look in his eyes almost made her forget about her remaining hot chocolate.

"...but you are incomparably sweeter..." he finished genuinely, unintentionally leaning forward just a bit.

"...." With her lips slightly parted, she had become speechless, the blood rushing to her cheeks as if she had become feverish and her heart beating faster than usual. She felt as the time stopped, as if everything around them stopped moving and existing, the moment he leaned forward.

"Here, please keep mine," Aislinn laughed lovingly, handing over her three scented pictures to Alastair. "I do not have any pockets," She explained and then took his hand when they left the cafe.

"Would you like to call Ravenna so that she can bring the carriage, or would you like to travel to her the way we came?" he referenced the jump he had performed earlier with a charming smile.

"I..." She was feeling very happy and the chocolate had made her even happier as if she was walking on clouds. "…wish to fly with you..." She almost sang, putting her arms around his neck and resting her head against his shoulder. "...to the moon and back..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"I....wish to fly with you..." She almost sang, putting her arms around his neck and resting her head against his shoulder. "...to the moon and back..."

"If that is what you wish, than I shall do my best to fulfill your desire, my lady." Alastair said elegantly, picking her up and then jumping just like before. Although the moon is rather cold and uncomfortably short of oxygen... he thought bemusedly.

This time, they went higher, and as they came nearly level with the moon, it seemed, he looked into her eyes once more. "My lady...the joy you feel at this very moment is the same joy I feel whenever our eyes meet. " he tilted his head slightly, and whispered in her ear "It has become my dearest wish to never part with you. I only desire your affection." And with that, he kissed her passionately, just as they began their descent.

They finished as they landed softly, just in front of the carriage, in front of which Raven had been standing perfectly straight, like a guard protecting a vault filled with gold.

"Thank you, Raven. I appreciate your efficiency. As always, you are perfect." Alastair praised as she held open the door for them and they stepped inside.

In reply, Raven bowed her head, her hair covering her face like a drape. "No trouble at all..." she said, attempting to sound normal through her emotions.

"Aislynn..." Alastair turned to her once Raven had closed the door. In his eyes, it was clear he wishes to sleep at her side again, although his face showed no other signs. "...do sleep well." he finished, changing his mind quickly. He turned to go to his bedroom door. "Goodnight." he gave her a sideways glance just as he was about to close the door on himself.

Once inside, he shut his eyes tight, frustrated. What was I thinking? I cannot use any more of that potion...I am nearly out. And I cannot buy anymore. I know she is aware of my scars, but she didn't see my body after Cerberus came...And then...I don't think I could handle her seeing me look so weak...I want her to think of me- he thought as he undressed to wash himself -as someone elegant, charming...and strong. That is the most important thing. If she finds out that I'm....I don't think I could stand her knowing what my other side is truly like....

He dressed in his usual kimono, then lay in bed. I don't think I did a very good job at hiding my change of mind...Yes, I spoke much too quickly. . . he replayed the moments before he had entered his bedroom minutes ago. He had ingested his Dreamless Sleep potion, and was calmed knowing that there would be no haunting dreams that night. He was about to fall asleep when he sat bolt upright on the bed. For a second he hesitated, then rushed out of bed, scrambling for his coat, where all of his magically enlarged pockets held his valuables. He fastened the robe around his chest, and pulled the sleeves down his arms to make sure that his skin was well-hidden, softly knocking at Aislynn's door a minute later. "My lady? I apologize for the disturbance, but I would like to ensure that you take a vial of Dreamless Sleep potion before you rest. I wouldn't want you to have a rough night..."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Aislynn..."

"Yes..." Aislinn smiled lovingly as she almost whispered. Her cheeks were glowing red.

"...do sleep well." Alastair turned to go to his bedroom door.

"Goodnight." he gave her a sideways glance just as he was about to close the door on himself.

"Eh...good...good night..." She replied astonished. Was it my imagination or did I really see him changing his mind so quickly? For a second, I thought that he wished to sleep by my side like the previous night, but suddenly he just turned away.... She thought confused as she walked to the opposite side of the main room to enter the other bedroom. Well perhaps.... perhaps it is for the best... She thought as she closed the door behind her. ...that we do not share bed every night, even if we only have in our minds to sleep beside each other like friends...because...sooner or later he might not be satisfied with only holding hands.... She blushed deeply at her own thoughts and shook her head to clear her mind.

She took of her hat and half laid down in the bed whilst hugging a pillow. She smiled like a lovestruck fool as she replayed the earlier moments before they returned to the carriage.

These desserts were so very sweet....but you are incomparably sweeter...

My lady...the joy you feel at this very moment is the same joy I feel whenever our eyes meet.....It has become my dearest wish to never part with you. I only desire your affection.

She sighed happily as she remembered the taste of his lips. Sweeter than chocolate....

She closed her eyes and was about to fall asleep when a sudden knock on her door made her to open her eyes wide. She rose up from the bed and walked over to the door. Perhaps he changed his mind again…? She thought and blushed deeply as she opened the door.

"My lady? I apologize for the disturbance, but I would like to ensure that you take a vial of Dreamless Sleep potion before you rest. I wouldn't want you to have a rough night..."

"Thank you..." She said quietly, in a whisper that was barely heard. "Thank you..." She repeated herself a bit louder because she thought that he might had not heard her. So, he only wanted to give me dreamless sleep potion...and nothing else? She thought as she stood there, red faced and her heart beating two times faster. I actually have a couple of vials with this kind of potion.... but I cannot decline him when he is giving me a vial....it is so sweet of him caring this much about me... As she took the vial her fingers brushed against his which made her heart skip some beats.

"Sweet..." She said. “...of you..." She smiled lovingly as she clutched the vial with her fingers against her heart. "Chocolate..." She was nearly speechless and was unaware about how she had spoken. She thought she had said: So sweet of you, your sweeter than chocolate...

She stood in her doorway, feeling nervous and embarrassed. She was unsure if she should wish him a good night and close the door gently or ask him to enter. She was feeling incapable to do the first option because she did not wish to close the door right in front of his face.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Thank you..."

Alastair only heard Aislynn the second time. The first time he had seen her mouth move, mouthing the words, and had understood. He thought she had repeated it because she hadn't been certain if he had understood.

"Sweet..." She said. "..of you..." She smiled lovingly as she clutched the vial with her fingers against her heart. "Chocolate..."

Alastair had thought she had meant "It was sweet of you to give me the chocolate desserts tonight.", and he smiled warmly. "You are welcome, my lady. " He noticed that she was troubled about something, and he took a guess at the issue. He bowed elegantly, and spoke before things escalated. "I wish you a pleasant night." And he walked away, to his bedroom once more. If it happens again, it could be...quite problematic... He closed the door on himself, breathing heavily as if he had been running for a long time. He had concentrated so hard on getting himself away from Aislynn that he hadn't noticed someone else in the room.

"Are you doing alright?" Raven asked quietly. Her tone clearly said 'What was that about?'

"I am fine, thank you." Alastair said dismissively, walking past her to stand at the side of his bed, preparing to get in.

"How long do you think you will be able to keep your feelings in?" Raven asked.

"As long as I can...I will try my hardest." Alastair insisted, looking straight into her eyes. They both knew what the problem was. Alastair guessed that she had taken a look into his more recent past, before he had come to Luna's manor a while ago. "She will understand, when I eventually break. With all good comes some evil. And I know that my other side is quite...evil..." he sighed, lying down on top of the covers instead of under them. "But she understood about mother...and brother...and why I stayed."

"But about Luna? And you other side? Just know that, if she does find out and she doesn't approve of you anymore, I can always take those memories away." Raven said helpfully, her hand on the latch to open his window.

"....Thank you. I may just...take you up on that...offer." Alastair said, his voice becoming quieter and quieter until he eventually fell asleep when he finished the sentence.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Sweet dreams," Aislinn smiled before closing the door to her bedroom. She sighed with relief. She was glad that she had been spared to take the first step, since she had been uncertain how to act. At the same time, she was fretting a little, brooding about why he had first looked at her as if he wanted to sleep by her side but then suddenly changing his mind.

Well, it is for the best, she persuaded herself. We should not share bed before marriage, even if we just sleep beside each other innocently...

She changed her clothes and drank the vial of dreamless potion, not only because to avoid any nightmare but also to cease brooding about other things.

A couple of minutes later she was sleeping peacefully.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

When they arrived, Raven left their carriage, and went for one of the many flies she took throughout the day in between jobs that she did for Alastair and Luna. This time, however, she was not content with merely flying to forget her troubling thoughts. No matter how much she flew, she could not forget the way Alastair had kissed Aislynn. So passionate...so gentleman like. He's like a dream and a nightmare wrapped in one incredibly picturesque body. I feel like a hopeless Yandere, filled with a passionate desire to destroy every object of his affection, so that I am the only one remaining before his eyes. Perhaps then, he will notice me. . . But that is not the case...And it never....never will be...Tears streamed from her eyes as she began to cry faster.

The moment Aislynn awoke in the afternoon, Alastair knocked three times softly on her door.

“Good morning, Aislynn.” Alastair smiled when she opened the door, holding the tray before himself as if he was presenting her with a work of art he had made as a gift. “Are you hungry for breakfast? I’ve made it just for you.” He said romantically. "Would you like to eat it in bed, or out in the gardens?"

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I have a vacancy for you, if you are interested, aren't you?"

"But I am not permitted to wear my mask here?"

"Oh, never mind about that, you may keep it."

"You are not joking with me, are you?"

"No, why should I? I am being serious with you. Since the day I became the Minister, we have been in need for an employee in the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. An employee who is able to handle dragons, to regulate and control these kinds of magical beasts. And I think you will be the most suited for this vacancy..."

And to keep you under my control, so you do not breed dragons illegally... Alexander thought for himself.

"Me? You want to employ me to take care of dragons....Merlin's beard I cannot believe it!....well, I cannot decline...it would be such a honor..."

"Perfect...I cannot thank you enough for doing a favor for the Ministry of Magic-"

"Oh by the way, how much is the salary per month?"

"It will start at fifteen thousand galleons per month-"

"Fifteen thousand?" Edward asked disapprovingly.

"It will be increased with time depending on your own effort and work," Alexander hurried to say. "Fifteen thousand per month is just a starter for anyone who gets employed by the Ministry of Magic for the first time. The salary can range from twenty thousand to one hundred thousand per month, depending on position of employee in the Ministry."

"Ah...I see..." Edward looked at Alexander with a -So one hundred thousand galleons go in your pocket every month- face.

An awkward silence filled in but did not last for more than one minute. Alexander opened his mouth to speak, to say a few words that might persuade Edward to take the offer, when the latter one suddenly spoke to his surprise.

"Well, I have no good reason to decline a job offer. Fifteen thousand is better than nothing."

When Aislinn woke up she did not leave the bed immediately, but remained laying there, recalling yesterday's events and getting lost in her daydreams about Alastair as she smiled happily to herself. She was brought to the reality when she suddenly heard someone knocking three times softly at the door.

Oh...I must have kept Alastair waiting. He might have got ready and prepared breakfast for us and here I am laying lazily, daydreaming about him... She thought embarrassed.

"Please wait a moment..." She spoke out aloud and hurried out of her bed to brush her teeth. She debated for one second if she should change her pajamas into some casual clothes and then decided to remain in her night attire. He has already seen me once in my pajamas, so I can keep them on until I know what we will do today. Then I can change my clothes into something suitable for the excursion today... She thought as she washed her face and brushed her hair.

"Good morning," She smiled when she opened her door.

“Good morning, Aislynn.” Alastair smiled, holding the tray before himself as if he was presenting her with a work of art he had made as a gift. “Are you hungry for breakfast? I’ve made it just for you.” He said romantically. "Would you like to eat it in bed, or out in the gardens?"

"Oh...." Her eyes fell on the tray which held two tall glasses filled with ice; one held freshly squeezed orange juice, and one held water. There was buttered toast and hash browns. In the center, there was a Spanish omelet, with bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and Spanish green olives. "How sweet of you. I appreciate it," She said gratefully as she met his eyes. "Let's eat out in the gardens..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"My pleasure." Alastair smiled, delicately setting the tray down in mid-air. "Shall we?" he asked as he offered her his arm. They walked to the gardens, and through the labyrinth, the tray following carefully behind them. "Do you have any plans today, my lady?" Alastair asked.

"I apologize, but I have some business I must handle today. " he began, uncertain of her reaction. He hoped she wouldn't wish to accompany him. "It will only take about two hours, and then I would be happy to spend the rest of my day with you." he assured her lovingly.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Well, we're going to do something exciting today, aren't we?" Aislinn smiled, refereeing to the second option of the three which Alastair suggested to her yesterday evening.

"I apologize, but I have some business I must handle today." he said. "It will only take about two hours, and then I would be happy to spend the rest of my day with you." he assured her lovingly.

"It's alright," She smiled as if she did not mind if his business would take the whole day. "I'll be waiting here, unless if you wish me to accompany you."

"Your office, mister." Alexander showed his new employee to a moderate small office room with simple furniture and a small window. There were only one wooden desk and a comfortable chair, shelves and drawers for containing important parchments covered two walls of the room. The other walls were covered with dark brown tapestry. "Though you won't spend much time here. The office is here for your need, should you have important paper work. As a regulator and controller of dragons you'll mostly spend your working hours out in the fields..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Thank you, my lady." Alastair nodded appreciatively. "I shall depart in ten minutes, so I shall go prepare myself. I do hope you enjoy the remainder of your breakfast. Be prepared to enjoy our time together in two hours when I return." he smiled charmingly. "Wear something casual, and comfortable. Our event involves riding brooms. " He informed her.

"Farewell." he bowed before jumping to the balcony of his bedroom. I do hope I didn't give away too much of the surprise...She did have to know what to wear, though...imagine if she prepared herself in something delicate, and had perfected her hair...Yes, I simply had to tell her. He thought as he dressed in the same prince costume he had worn when Aislynn had purchased her kimono. He jumped back down, holding a briefcase that matched his costume, and landed right in front of the carriage where Raven was waiting. He didn't wear a wig this time.

Raven opened the door for him, as usual, and closed the door, smiling once he could no longer see her. At least they aren't inseparable...

"As fast as possible." Alastair had told her when informing her of what time he wanted her to ready the carriage. He had told her the day before knowing full well what his plans would be.

"I can usually feel my eyes...With the exception of the occasional surprise flicker." he had explained. "I have to take care of it quickly...tomorrow. " he said in a very serious voice.

Raven had nodded and left.

“Mr. Natsumizaka, I urge you to allow me to complete a mission on my own.” Alastair said quietly as he stood before The Director’s desk.

Mr. Natsumizaka hesitated, pondering Alastair’s request. “You could have easily pretended to take a partner with you, and lied to me….Why didn’t you do that?”

“Because I remember what you told me…that time…” Alastair paused. “That you valued honesty more than efficiency.”

“I did.” Mr. Natsumizaka said firmly. “And I can see that you kept those words in mind for a situation like this.”

“I did.” Alastair said in the same firm voice the Director had just used.

“I understand…”

Alastair waited patiently for his answer, prepared to share his true reasons if he didn’t get what he needed.

“You may complete missions on your own from now on…” Mr. Natsumizaka finally said. “When you came back, I thought you may be different…But now, I see that you are the same person…” he gestured to Alastair’s apparel. “…With the same threat level as before.”

“That is true. For allowing me the privilege of solo missions once more... I cannot thank you enough. ” Alastair bowed, before turning around to leave.

“Goodbye.” He said as Ms. Tachibana opened the door for him.

“Goodbye.” Mr. Natsumizaka said, watching Alastair leave as if he was the most interesting thing he had ever seen.

“Sir?” Ms. Tachibana asked as soon as she had closed the door. “Do you think that was a good idea? Letting him have free reign again?”

“It was not truly my choice.” The Director explained calmly.” There was something inside him…that needs to kill. He simply chooses to kill the evil people in this world to reduce the guilt he has. The fact that he asked me before he attempted to deceive me shows that he respects me. I would rather not have to put him in the position to have to lie to someone he respects.”

“Alastair-San! Konnichiwa! (Alastair! Hello!) ” Reiji exclaimed when he saw Alastair coming off of the elevator. It pleased him that Aislynn was not with him.

“Konnichiwa. (Hello.) ” Alastair said coldly, staring at the warm hand that Reiji extended without taking it. “Watashi no tsugi no shimei ni tsuite sugu ni watashi ni burīfingu. (Brief me on my next mission immediately.)” He said as he walked past Reiji without giving him a second glance.

Reiji briefed him, and Alastair listened emotionlessly. Afterward, he turned around to leave, concentrating on his next target; a man who was responsible for the domestic abuse of several women. He had used several powerful people connected to the government to prevent any evidence from being reported, so he was legally innocent.

“Alastair-san?” Reiji said, just as Alastair had his hand on the door handle. “Kimi ni tsutaenakereba ikenai koto ga aru. (I have to tell you something important.)”

Alastair turned the handle and walked out, as if he hadn’t heard Reiji, closing the door firmly behind him. “Matte! (Wait!)” Reiji said a bit louder, rushing after Alastair.

By the time Reiji opened the door again, Alastair was pressing the button to enter the elevator. Only a few agents remained in the building, since the time was eleven o’ clock. Reiji had stayed in case Alastair had come in late.

“Alastair-san!” he exclaimed, his voice pleading for Alastair to wait for him.

Alastair didn’t turn back as he entered the elevator, and promptly pressed the button for the ground floor, hoping to avoid Reiji completely. The doors closed without admitting to Reiji’s pleading, and Alastair emerged on the ground floor.

To his surprise, Reiji stood there before him, panting as if he had run the whole way down by way of the stairs. “Shite kudasai... Tada kiitekudasai! (Please…just listen!)” Reiji pleaded, blocking Alastair’s path.

“Tashikani…(Fine…)” Alastair sighed, annoyed. “Watashi wa anata ni mimiwokatamukerudeshou. Doko ni watashi ni hanashitai nodesu ka? Anata no me de miru koto de, watashi wa sore ga puraibētona mondaida to ieru. (I will listen to you. Where would you like to speak to me? By the look in your eyes, I can tell it is a private issue.)” The look on his face clearly said ‘Let’s get this over with, quickly.’

“E…Erebētā no naka ni modoru koto ga dekimasu ka? (C…Could we go back inside the elevator?)” Reiji asked hopefully.

“Tashikani…(Fine…)” Alastair sighed, stepping aside to let Reiji into the elevator. He pressed the button for it to close, and then gave Reiji the same expectant look.

Reiji looked down at his hands, and opened his mouth, although no words came out. He began to blush as he realized he was having a difficulty speaking.

“Daijobu-dess. Oshietekudasai. (It’s alright. Tell me.)” Alastair said, his voice gentler. If I act friendly, he will feel comfortable enough to tell me quickly. I don't want this to take long.

“Watashi…(I…)”

Alastair put a gentle hand on Reiji’s shoulder, looking into his eyes patiently. “Hai? (Yes?)”

Reiji looked into Alastair’s eyes, and the look on his face changed from embarrassed to loving. “Aishiteru, Alastair-San! (I love you, Alastair!)” He breathed, as if he had waited to tell him that since the moment they had met. Before Alastair could react, Reiji had pushed Alastair against the right wall of the elevator, holding him by the gentle hand he had extended, and kissed him.

“Chotto! (Hey!)” Alastair said in a dangerous voice, reversing their positions in an instant. “Watashi wa itsumo sono kimochi o kaesu koto o omoidashimasen. (I don’t recall ever returning the feeling.)”

“G...gomenasai…(I…I’m sorry.)” Reiji said quickly, fearing the anger in Alastair’s eyes.

“Soredewa jūbun janai. (That’s not enough.)” Alastair said in a dangerous voice.

He subconsciously held Reiji’s wrist tighter, to the point of nearly breaking it.

“Uwa! (Ouch!)” Reiji nearly cried in pain. “Onegai-(Please-)”

“Watashi wa anata ni tadashiku shazai suru hōhō o oshiete hoshīdesu ka? (Do you want me to tell you how to apologize properly?)” Alastair said, his voice commanding yet quiet.

Reiji listened with large, tearful eyes, only wishing to take back his mistake. He had unintentionally awoken Alastair’s other side, yet he had no idea how terrible his mistake had been.

The elevator doors opened a minute later, and Alastair emerged, a calm expression on his face. In his eyes there was a relaxed satisfaction; he had taken care of the problem. Then it closed, and went up to the last floor, where it for Rei Tachibana, who had been pressing the button to call the elevator. She screamed, dropping her briefcase at the ghastly sight.

The Director ran from his office to help his secretary, who he thought had been in trouble. He stopped abruptly, staring inside the elevator with an emotionless expression.

In the very center of the elevator was a rope, tied in the shape of a noose. Reiji’s corpse hung from it with an expression of utter despair, and below him, a stepping stool that was overturned.

Alastair sat in front of an office desk, filling out the Mission Report form calmly.

Who was your partner on the mission?

It was a solo mission. He wrote.

Who were you supposed to assassinate, and what were/was their/his/her charges?

Mr. Kouru Takahiro, charged with domestic abuse toward two women.

What proof did you find before the assassination(s), in order to justify the killing?

I interviewed his two spouses. Both of them had marking on their arms and legs. Bruises and scrapes.

Did you hesitate, or feel any guilt after the killing, or was the proof enough to justify it morally for you?

As usual, I feel no guilt.

What method did you use to assassinate your target(s)?

I pulled Mr. Takahiro out of his car and threw him off of the Inoshima bridge. He was on his way to Shikoku, to visit his second wife.

Were there any casualties, or was any property damaged?

Only Mr. Takahiro’s car, which was forced to stop magically. The tires are damaged, but can be repaired. Also, I had to force my entry into his first wife’s home; her kitchen window at the back of the house is shattered.

Do you feel that anything could have been done differently, or are you satisfied with the job you and your partner have done?

I am satisfied.

Thank you for taking the time to complete this Mission Report to the best of your ability. We thank you for your loyalty to the Agency and the hard work you have done. Have a pleasant day/evening/night.

Thank you. You are welcome. He finished, knowing that whoever read the report would laugh, since the last part did not need a reply.

He placed it in the stack, and was soon inside the elevator, which had been thoroughly cleaned out since he had encountered Reiji.

A note was next to the button for the last floor, which read, in English:

Alastair. It is imperative that you visit me in my office immediately. Come as quickly as possible.

Alastair detached the note, and folded it, placing it inside his pocket.

“Do you know anything about the death of Reiji Sakamaki?” The Director asked once his secretary had closed the door upon departure.

“Why, yes.” Alastair said openly, with no regret in his eyes.

“Why did you kill him?” the Director asked, his voice surprisingly calm, and his hands folded on his desk.

“I didn’t say that I killed him. Simply that I knew about his death.” Alastair answered slyly, a malicious smile on his face.

“What happened?”

“He confessed his love to me like a lovesick Shinigami.” Alastair said unsympathetically. “And completed the scene with a passionate kiss. I rejected him, and convinced him to commit suicide in repentance for his atrocious behavior.” He finished in an uninterested tone, as if he had told a child that he couldn’t visit the candy store.

“Did you use magic to convince him?”

“I can’t tell.” Alastair shrugged his shoulders, although he smiled all the same. “What do you think?” he asked, not truly asking his opinion.

Four minutes of silence. The Director thought it over, while Alastair waited, still smiling.

“You are excused for the night.” He finally said. “He killed himself, so you are not guilty. This Agency is better off without him.” He concluded.

“Hmm.” Alastair sighed, contented. “Such a perfect ending to this lovely night…”

And with that, he walked out. The only sound was the soft clicking of his boots as he walked.

Raven watched with high interest, on the edge of the cloud she was sitting on.

“Hello, Aislynn. Are you ready?” Alastair smiled, bowing before her the moment he arrived back in London, just on time.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Oh...well see you later..." Aislinn replied smilingly. She could not bring herself to say farewell when she was going to see Alastair two hours later.

She ate the remainder of the breakfast, sitting in a hammock she had conjured in the center of the labyrinth. He did not eat that much... She thought as she munched on the last buttered toast before devouring the orange juice. .... If I only knew he had some business this noon, I would have tried to get up earlier...well from now on I am not going to take any dreamless sleep potion. It makes me sleep to much....

Aislinn walked back to the manor, the tray with dishes levitated in front of her. She left the dishes to be magically washed by themselves in the kitchen while she carefully picked out clothes for today's adventure. Hmm...riding brooms today? She put on a pair of comfortable black slimmed trousers and a black thin sweater with a turtleneck and long sleeves. The last thing I want is fluttering clothes or hair all around me when riding a broom... She put on her combat boots and wondered what to do with her hair. Braiding it was out of question, because her hair was to straight and soft that it would loosen itself after a couple of minutes. Instead she pulled her bangs backward with at least three hair pins so that her bangs were out of her face and pulled her longer hair in a neck ponytail using an elastic hair band. Satisfied with her neat look, she fastened her belt with necessary potion vials around her waist and tucked Raven's feather in her right sleeve and her wand in her left sleeve.

Only one hour and forty minutes had passed since Alastair had left, thus Aislinn sat on the steps outside the main doors, with her broom resting in her lap, waiting. The remaining ten minutes felt like ten hours, though soon she sighted the carriage which landed in front of her. She rose up, feeling eager and excited about today's event even if it just was about broom riding.

“Hello, Aislynn. Are you ready?” Alastair smiled, bowing before her.

"Hello, dear," She smiled. "Yes, I am more than ready..." Oh, come on, he does not need to bow for me every time... She thought as she blushed. Perhaps it was something his mother also taught him...to always bow for a lady...

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Then we shall depart post haste! I cannot wait to see your expression when the surprise is revealed!" Alastair said passionately as he offered her his arm. I wonder what she is thinking about my apparel? She seemed to find it interesting last time, but still...

They entered the carriage together, and soon they were flying to Japan again. "What a lovely job you've done with your hair; it looks so simple and casual; perfect to match the outfit." he smiled as they sat next to each other.

A few minutes later, he spoke again. "Raven made us some of the highest quality brooms I have ever seen." Alastair said, pointing toward his bedroom door, which opened itself gently. Two brooms, made of polished dark wood, flew out, hovering before them proudly. With the same passion that Sebastian Michealis usually used when describing cats, Alastair described the brooms. "The twigs at the ends were smooth and even; the broom will fly straight with ease. And the seat area has the finest invisible cushioning charms, for a comfortable ride. And they go very fast." he explained, excitement in his eyes. "What do you think of them?"

"We have arrived, my lady. After you." Alastair said as Raven held open the door.

They had landed at the base of Mount Fujii; it's dark outline showing clearly against the moon's radiance.

"Welcome to Mount Fujii, one of the most world-renown mountains in all of the world. It is located on the island of Honshuu, in Japan." Alastair informed Aislynn as she left the carriage. Alastair leaned over Aislynn's right shoulder from just behind her, speaking quietly as she admired the scenery. "It gets even better..."

He backed away, and walked so that he was a few feet in front of her, then turned to face her, eyes closed. He put both of his hands together as if in prayer, slowly raising them higher and higher in front of him, so that eventually they were above his head. Quickly, he parted them, so that his hands were palm-up, and his arms were stretched out on either side of him. Just above each hand was a massive ball of fire, shaped as if it were attached to an invisible candle, and flickering just the same way. He paused for a moment, then tilted his hands as if he expected the flames to slide off of the tips of his fingers. Instead, they flew upward, connected, and flew apart like a firework, becoming several smaller flames. Those flames flew away, toward the mountain, where they wound around from the very base to the tip in a spiral, lighting up the mountain like many tiny candles. "And there we are." Alastair said, opening his eyes again and speaking as if it had been nothing. "It's fixed so that only we can see them, so you don't have to worry about any unwanted visitors." he smiled with an 'It will be just the two of us' twinkle in his eyes.

The brooms stood ready. "There are two things you must understand before embarking on this flight." Alastair began. "Firstly, it will be rather cold at the top, so I am happy that you have brought a sweater-" he gestured to her turtleneck "-although I'd like to place an adaptable temperature spell on it, just in case. The spell-" he explained as he pointed to it with his finger, performing the spell "-will allow the sweater to warm or cool your body depending on its needs. It is the one spell I use most often; it is the reason I am able to wear whatever I wish, regardless of the weather. Secondly, we will be racing to the top, and the winner will get to choose where we dine tonight." he explained as if it was the most serious thing in the world "The loser will have to pay as a penalty." He laughed as he turned to mount his broom, and then spoke very clearly. "I want you to count down from three, and then we will begin our race."

 

[Hikari Chan]

Ahhh there's something more than just broom riding... Aislinn thought excited as she entered the carriage with Alastair.

"What a lovely job you've done with your hair; it looks so simple and casual; perfect to match the outfit." he smiled as they sat next to each other.

"Thank you, you look lovely as well," She smiled when she recognized his extravagant outfit from the time when they had went shopping for clothes during her first visit to Japan. "I just hope my hair stays in place during broom riding," she laughed, recalling how difficult her hair could be sometimes.

"Raven made us some of the highest quality brooms I have ever seen." Alastair said a few minutes later, pointing toward his bedroom door, which opened itself gently.

"Oh...." Merlin's beard, why did I take my broom with me… Aislinn thought embarrassed when she saw the two new brooms hovering before her and Alastair proudly. She listened as he described the brooms with excitement in his eyes and a loving soft and deep tone in his voice that she first wondered if he were suited to be a flying professor at Hogwarts or if he were just great at explaining anything in a exciting way or if he simply loved and had great interest in brooms. Well, Alastair made it to sound more exciting than professor Hooch....if Luna has not chosen any professor to flying lessons, I am going to suggest her to employ Alastair hehehe...then I won't mind to join the staff at Hogwarts as well..

"What do you think of them?" He asked.

"Great..." She replied excitingly. "I cannot wait to try this new broom out…"

"Oh..." Aislinn was amazed by the breathtaking view when she stepped out from the carriage. She could hear Alastair's voice and feel his breath in her neck when he spoke quietly:

"It get's even better..."

She closed her eyes for a couple of minutes, smiling, before opening her eyes seeing him standing with eyes closed in front of her. She watched with great interest as he conjured flames and send them flying away to light up the mountain.

"And there we are." Alastair said. "It's fixed so that only we can see them, so you don't have to worry about any unwanted visitors." he smiled with a 'It will be just the two of us' twinkle in his eyes.

Aislinn giggled excitingly and grabbed one of the brooms, eager to set off.

"There are two things you must understand before embarking on this flight." Alastair began.

"Yes?"

"Firstly, it will be rather cold at the top, so I am happy that you have brought a sweater-" he gestured to her turtleneck "-although I'd like to place an adaptable temperature spell on it, just in case. The spell-" he explained as he pointed to it with his finger, performing the spell "-will allow the sweater to warm or cool your body depending on its needs. It is the one spell I use most often; it is the reason I am able to wear whatever I wish, regardless of the weather."

"Thank you, I appreciate it," She smiled, feeling moderate warm suddenly. When she had walked out from the carriage she had been met by a chill air and even if she had not really been freezing, she was grateful for the spell.

"Secondly, we will be racing to the top, and the winner will get to choose where we dine tonight." he explained as if it was the most serious thing in the world "The loser will have to pay as a penalty."

Hmm...we have equal kind of brooms... this will be interesting indeed... She thought as she mounted her broom, laughing amusingly at his suggestion.

He laughed as he turned to mount his broom, and then spoke very clearly. "I want you to count down from three, and then we will begin our race."

"Alright..." She smiled. "One......two......three!"