Fandom The Gathering of Death Eater Children

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Luna sat in the kitchen, planning her day with Nagini. It was nine in the morning; she had slept in. "And then, I shall handle the issue of the event Elias asked me to plan...I still cannot remember why, but I do remember that he really wished for it to happen." Luna finished.

Nagini nodded as she munched on a piece of raw steak.

Luna blinked twice when she heard Elias's voice inside her head. 'Good afternoon, my lady. I'd like to meet you to discuss the music project in private. Please send me a reply within three minutes, thank you...'

"I am ever so surprised that you have worn that every day since he gifted it to you." Nagini remarked. "Even when you weren't speaking with him, you wore it on your undershirts." Both of us knew it was there, without saying it, although he didn't... Nagini thought.

"Of course. I was planning on coming to the school today to speak with you on the same subject, as well as the issue of the birth dates...You see, I lost the paper that I had written your family's birth days on...Which makes it quite difficult for me to send them gifts, or to send you gifts, and appear like I remembered their special days..." Luna sighed, talking to herself. "How could I have misplaced something so important?"

"It was not your fault that a drop of potion from your cauldron splashed and burned the papers on your writing desk...Or that the piece of parchment that held their birthdays happened to be on the desk at the time..." Nagini reasoned.

Luna nodded, and fingered her pendant, two minutes later. Of course, Luna thought in reply, I am available until six this evening. Please state your chosen meeting place, and what time you would like to meet. She removed her finger, and waited, taking a sip of her lemonade, which was half-empty by now.

"Chocolate..." She replied quickly.

"Hmm?" Alastair asked, his eyebrows rose slightly. Chocolate muffins? He thought. Waffles? More croissants? Cake?

"Eh...I mean....I'd like...eh...make your favorite meal for breakfast..." She hurried to say and laughed.

My....favorite? He thought, surprised. "Of course, my lady. I shall see you outside at the dining table in approximately twenty minutes." he nodded, not allowing his expression to falter in the slightest. He bowed shallowly to her, and left the room, closing the door gently behind him.

Once the door closed, the black rose that he had left on the bed levitated itself into a glass vase, and some water appeared inside it slowly, as if someone was pouring water into the vase manually.

Once Alastair was in the kitchen, he put a hand to his forehead, thinking. My favorite? Why did she request my favorite? Perhaps she is merely curious...yes, I shall assume so....Deciding on what to prepare is simple. My favorite breakfast has always been... He nodded to himself, and sent a patronus to Raven, conjuring her. Then, he quickly wrote a complete list of all the ingredients he needed, most of which weren't available in Mexico.

She appeared a moment later. "How may I be of service to you?" she asked.

"I require a list of ingredients from Japan for breakfast this morning. If you were to purchase them and bring them back, how long would it take?" Alastair asked, handing her the list, which he had just finished.

She took a look, pondering each item for a second or two. "Five minutes. Transporting them will not take long; it is just the time for me to fly to and from the locations, and then speaking briefly with the person at the checkout counter as I pay the bill."

"I understand. Could you possibly-" he began, in a way that he regretted the fact that she, an angel, was being asked to do such a trivial task such as grocery shopping.

"-It will be done." Raven interrupted, bowing and flying off with the list.

Alastair stood there, surprised that she hadn't even hesitated. During the five minutes that she was gone, he changed his princely costume from the day before into something else.

When she returned, he had just entered the kitchen, although he stood in a way that looked as though he hadn't left.

"Here is everything." Raven smiled, as the ingredients levitated inside a minute after she landed, proudly displaying themselves on the counter.

"Five minutes on the dot." Alastair smiled gratefully. "I cannot thank you enough."

"It's nothing." Raven said quickly, and walked out.

A minute later, she knocked on Aislynn's bedroom door. "Mistress Aislynn?" she asked. "Is there anything I may assist you with?"

Meanwhile, Alastair was preparing breakfast. He was ready two minutes ahead of schedule. He stood waiting behind Aislynn's chair of the dining table, anticipating her reaction. He wore an elegant kimono, flowing kimono, which had two layers. There was the first layer, which was a dark grey, almost black. It was barely visible under the second layer, which was the darkest black possible. The sleeves flowed, long, yet light at the same time. The fabric tied around his waist was the same dark grey as the under layer of his kimono. "Elegant as usual today, my lady." Alastair smiled, bowing to her. "Please, be seated." He pulled out her chair for her. The breakfast was the traditional kind that they had had in Japan, complete with fresh fish and tea. "Are you satisfied with the selection? I could easily make you something else, if you desire." he said the moment she had looked at the food.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Perfect, Elias thought when he fingered his brooch. At four o'clock in the headmaster's office...

He removed his fingers before walking back to the castle. The office which we share ... He smiled for himself.

"Are you not hot in that?!" Avery burst out when Elias entered the entrance hall. They were dressed completely differently. Avery was dressed in typical muggle summer clothing such as colorful shorts and t-shirt as if he was at vacation in the Caribbean while Elias was wearing his formal dark suit and cloak.

"And are you not a wizard?" Elias asked in return instead for replying before walking past his friend.

Laughter emerged from others who happened to be in the entrance hall, casting sideways glances at Avery. He almost looked angry at Elias' back who imperturbable walked away.

What did I just ask for breakfast? Aislinn thought as soon as Alastair had left. I did not mention chocolate, did I? She blushed.

She got up and washed quickly. With a towel wrapped around her, she ventured through her other clothes. She had first no idea what to put on.

Hmm....I want something relaxing.... She decided to put on her black silky pajamas. Alastair has already seen me wearing this, so I think it is fine....besides it looks elegant with its silky texture....

She looked at the black rose, which he had left for her in a vase, for a second and the next second she picked it up, attaching it to her hair just above her left ear. She used her wand to put up her hair in an almost messy hair bun and intertwine the stem of the rose in her hair.

Aislinn had just finished dressing when she heard Raven behind her door.

"Thank you, but I just got ready!" Aislinn smiled when she opened the door and walked out from her room. "I'll let you know if I need anything else later," She embraced Raven as if she was embracing her mother.

"Elegant as usual today, my lady." Alastair smiled, bowing to Aislinn as soon as she neared the gazebo.

"...Eh..." She suddenly become speechless for a split second and blushed. "...You look elegant as well..." She smiled, still blushing.

"Please, be seated." He pulled out her chair for her.

"Thank you..." She sat down and glanced at the meal. Ah....so this must be his favorite breakfast... She thought excited.

"Are you satisfied with the selection? I could easily make you something else, if you desire." he said the moment she had looked at the food.

"Oh...of course I am satisfied, it is lovely and besides I asked for your favorite breakfast today," She smiled. "Please sit down..." She took a hold of his hand. "I won't take a bite unless if you sit with me."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

I understand. Luna replied grimly, touching her brooch again. If I am even a minute late, come looking for me. It would have been an emergency if I kept you waiting. She finished.

"Did you really just-" Nagini began, half amused and half shocked.

"Yes. I was joking." Luna said, her eyebrows furrowed as if it had been easily noticeable.

"You need to lighten up to appear as if you are joking." Nagini said knowledgeably.

"Nagini, I have a question for you." Luna said, putting a thoughtful finger to her chin and looking off out the window, trying to remember clearly the question she wanted to ask. She turned back to the serpent, and asked "Do you ever miss interacting with other serpents?"

"Not in the slightest." Nagini replied, without hesitation. It was clear she had asked herself that question once before, and come to a conclusion she was certain of.

"Why not?" Luna asked. She had been certain her answer would be the exact opposite.

"Once I got to know you, and interacted with you, I learned so many things by just talking with you. A while back, I met another serpent..." she looked away, clearly remembering the incident. "He was a white Japanese serpent named Shiro. We spoke for some time, and in that time I got to know everything about him, because serpents do not keep secrets from each other. In the end, I came to a conclusion. " She looked at Luna now "-By just meeting him, a white serpent, which are the rarest and wisest of them all, I can understand what all of the other serpents are like. No one compares to you. " She said honestly. "It is like asking you to have...an intellectual conversation with a child. " she tried to explain.

"I understand; you're saying you're hard-pressed to find a serpent that is on the same level as you intellectually... " Luna nodded.

"You have this problem as well, as you are surrounded, most of the time, by fools. Once in a while, though, you will meet someone like Alastair...or Elias." Nagini smiled, happy for Luna "Who understands you completely."

Luna appeared in a puff of black smoke at the gates of Hogwarts.

She wore a black dress shirt with long sleeves, and a skirt with a high waist, also black. A small, black jabot complemented the shirt nicely. The skirt was so long that you could barely see the Victorian boots she wore; no heels, of course. She wore the brooch on her right side, just visible next to the jabot.

In the entrance hall, she heard the voices of different people, but looked at none of them, purposefully making her way to the office. She walked in a reserved, elegant way, as if politely telling no one to approach her.

Luna sat in the office, by three o' clock sharp. She sat there, waiting, reading a book Alastair had given her for one of her birthdays. The History of Japanese Holidays and Traditions. She had read it before, and was re-reading it a few years later to refresh her memory on the subject. At the moment, she was reading about Tanabata .

"Good afternoon, Elias." Luna said, standing up to greet him when he arrived. She wore her usual formal expression, although it was softened when her eyes met his. She extended her hand, preparing to shake it.

"Now” she said, sitting down straight, on the chair in front of the desk, her hands folded in her lap, “What is the business you wished to discuss?" The seat behind the desk, the headmaster's seat, was left vacant for Elias. She had obviously done this on purpose, wordlessly expecting him to sit there out of respect.

Alastair gently pulled his hand away from Aislynn, and sat across from her in his seat. He took a sip of his Green Tea as he watched Aislynn’s reaction to the food. Rather than asking her how she liked it, he said nothing, waiting for her to comment. He didn’t plan on touching his food until he knew she was satisfied.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I hope that you are joking," Elias nearly laughed, speaking more to himself, when he heard Luna's recent thoughts. "Late, hehe...as if you ever used to be late..." He was taking a stroll in the castle as if he was trying to discover new places.

There were a few students around in the castle, most of them were studying hard for their exams for the coming week. And the most professors were in their offices, grading the exams which had been done during the week. A few students and professors passed in the entrance hall, making their ways to different locations within the castle.

Adela on the contrary was making her way out from the castle. She was levitating a pile of work with her, planning to grade the exams outdoors in the beautiful sunlight. She nearly jumped of surprise when the dark mistress appeared in a pouf of black smoke at the entrance. She hurried to curtsy for her to greet her before she walked past her. She had not reached that far when she heard a familiar voice behind her:

"Adela?" It was her oldest brother, August, who stopped in his tracks when he also noticed the dark mistress, greeting her with a bow, before walking over to his sister.

"May I have a word with you, please,"

Merlin's beard, Faeryn did not tell, did she? Adela thought as she tried to look as innocent as possible. Why on earth does she care if I befriended a vampire...he has not harmed me, has he? ...sigh...

"Will it take long?" Adela asked. "I have work to do..." And she was not lying. The pile of work which was hovering midair in front of her proved that she was telling the truth.

Elias entered the headmaster's office, precisely five minutes before the clock stroke four. He was surprised to see that Luna already was there.

"Good afternoon, my dear," He replied with a smile, taking her hand in his both. His intention was not shaking hands but hold her hand tenderly in his both. That was his way of greeting her.

I wonder how long she had been here. This almost ruined my surprise for her...well anyway...I think I can still make it to a surprise... He thought as he took the seat behind the desk.

"Now” she said, sitting down straight, on the chair in front of the desk, her hands folded in her lap, “What is the business you wished to discuss?"

"The music project of course," He replied. "Mostly report how the music project have been this far..." He did not tell her about the silly quarrels or people being late for the meetings every evening because he regarded these things as mundane issues, and they were not worth to be mentioned in his opinion.

Unless if she is curious to know how the interaction between us professors have been thus far, but I doubt that she wants to know that... he thought for himself before speaking:

"We have been practicing a lot, I brought them many kind of music sheets when they had warmed up their skills. I have preliminary grouped every one of us, including you as well, in case if you choose to play at the graduation ball..." He picked out a parchment from one of the drawers in the desk and placed it upside down in front of him thought right side down on the table, so that Luna could easily read.

Group One: Elias, Persephone, Claude, Lachlan, Lloyd and Flynn
Group Two: Elias and Miss Lestrange
Group three: Elias, Persephone and Selwyn
Group four: Miss Wilkes
Group five: Miss Jugson, Miss Travers and Miss Dolohov.
Group six: Elias, Persephone or Miss Lestrange and Miss Jugson or Travers or Dolohov. Everyone in group six could also play together.
Group seven: Same as the group one though with Miss Dolohov as well.

Below the groups, everyone was listed with their respective music instrument.

Piano - Elias
Bass guitar - Lachlan Avery and Lloyd Macnair
Drums - Flynn Pyrites
Viola - Persephone Pyrites
Cello - Claude Selwyn
Lyra - Endewyne Jugson
Harp - Faeryn Travers
Flute - Adela Dolohov
Acoustic guitar plus singing - Melody Wilkes

"That is how I think it may work. I am open to any ideas you have, and I don't mind if you want to rearrange the groups. As I said this just preliminary, you could for instance replace miss Pyrites in any group or vice versa, because the viola is a close instrument to the violin, the former is slightly bigger in size than the latter......And oh, we will need someone to direct some of the groups, which with more practice soon will be able to play any music to any command."

Aislinn also took a sip of the green tea, seeing Alastair doing so, before picking up her fork to taste the grilled salmon.

She smiled and looked at him with a - what are you waiting for - face and took another bite of the fish and then a bit of rice.

"Mmm...lovely," She commented with a smile.

Even if I am not accustomed to eat this kind of food for breakfast, it tastes so good in the morning...tomorrow I'll invite him to taste my favorite breakfast...inviting each other to our favorite meals and using other means to introduce each other to other things we favor beside food, is a perfect way to get to know each other.. She thought while she continued to eat.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"...And oh, we will need someone to direct some of the groups, which with more practice soon will be able to play any music to any command."

Luna nodded, still looking at the paper. "You have done an exceptionally efficient job at this Musical Project." Luna praised, relieved that he had handled it so well. "I would not change anything." She thought for a moment, then continued. "As for someone who could direct the groups, what do you think of Raven?" Luna asked, as if she had already thought of it. I originally thought that I should direct, but I don't think I would have the patience to deal with that many people for the entire duration of the party, or the ball...whatever they call it. Luna thought. "The reason why I suggested her is because she can communicate to other people without moving her mouth. She could correct anyone who was playing off-key or who wasn't minding the tempo. It would look more professional if no one needed to be told what to do, correct? These children will see it as if we have a professional air, and that would please them, and boost our credibility. " She paused a moment, then looked at him. "Your thoughts?"

"Mmm...lovely," Aislynn commented with a smile.

Alastair smiled, his relieved, contented smile once again, then began eating elegantly. While Alastair ate, his eyes held a look of pure bliss; it was rare that he felt this much joy from a meal, unless it was sushi. The rice...the grilled salmon...the fragrant Miso soup...and the steamed vegetables...I missed this so much, even if we only visited Japan a week or so ago....I am truly enjoying this... he thought as he ate with his chopsticks.

Aislynn had been given a fork from the start, since he remembered how she had had a problem with chopsticks the first time they had indulged in Sushi.

Once they finished, Alastair had the dishes clear themselves, and he remained seated. "Do you have plans for today? It is the last day of our break." Alastair said. We went to the Old Times Theatre and Antique the first night. Then, Mount Fujii and the DiVilliers villa in Mexico yesterday. Today, I had planned to visit the Theatre of Game once more. I wonder if she remembers I had plans for us this weekend?

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Why do you suggest Raven?" Elias asked, making it sound as if he was more curious than scared, managing to keep a calm expression and tone but he could not help but switching his legs nervously. I have not seen that angel for a long time, He thought for himself.

The reason why I suggested her is because she can communicate to other people without moving her mouth. She could correct anyone who was playing off-key or who wasn't minding the tempo. It would look more professional if no one needed to be told what to do, correct? These children will see it as if we have a professional air, and that would please them, and boost our credibility."

Luna paused a moment, then looked at him. "Your thoughts?"

"I have no obligations at all," Elias confessed and it was true. Even if he was feeling a little uncomfortable about a fallen angel, he understood that she would be to a great help when directing the music during the ball. "I believe indeed that she will do great in directing most of the groups. I have asked miss Wilkes to sing and play something to introduce the graduation ball, would you like to hear her to perform a song in beforehand?...And besides that, are there others you know who are able to perform music, playing any instrument or is able to sing? We currently have miss Wilkes who can sing solo with the instrument she plays. It is not necessary, but if we had more who could sing it would be great as well..."

"Not really," Aislinn replied smilingly. "If you remember, a couple of days ago you suggested me three things we could do: relaxing, exciting and creative and I told you that we could do the creative thing on Saturday, which is today, I have no other plans than that...."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"No, thank you. I trust that, if you approved of it, it must be acceptable." Luna said simply. "It will be a nice surprise for me to hear it for the first time at the Graduation Ball. As for the musical abilities of my clients..." Luna paused, trying to remember. Aislynn's talents are unknown to me at the moment...We spoke about it briefly, but unfortunately the details of the conversation have slipped my mind. Alastair and I perform quite well at the violin, but I wouldn't ask him to preform for children. Raven can play the harp, and she can sing in such a lovely voice, but she told me privately that she would prefer to keep her talents secret. Crystal said the same thing about her singing. Rosaleya can play an instrument, but I cannot recall which. Also, it was Crystal who told me, so I have never confirmed Rosaleya's talents for myself. "....Some have talents, but most would prefer to keep them private." Luna finished three seconds later. "Is there anything else you would like to discuss?"

"Something has been bothering me, as of late." Luna said, a troubled look in her eyes. "Mainly because we are getting rather close. This morning, I slept in..." she began "...because I had an odd dream. You proposed to me, and I said no, because I wanted to ensure that your mother approved of my asexuality beforehand. " Luna paused, looking at Elias for his reaction. "It bothered me because when I woke up, I realized that you have a high affinity for me. Henceforth, I guessed that you would propose to me within the next two years or possibly a little less. Whenever it happens..." Luna sighed "I wanted to choose a date soon, on which you and I would visit your manor and explain my condition to your parents. Is there a way we could go about doing that?" she asked. I would hate to make a fool of him in public by denying his proposal because of one of my innermost problems... Luna thought. It has been troubling me all day...It was Nagini who noticed and said that I should talk to Elias about it.

"We have a few hours to spend before we can enjoy the surprise for later today." Alastair smiled charmingly. "Do you have any ideas of what we can do in that time?"

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I understand," Elias replied.

"Is there anything else you would like to discuss?" Luna asked.

"No, my dear, is there something else you wish to discuss?"

"Something has been bothering me, as of late." Luna said, a troubled look in her eyes. "Mainly because we are getting rather close. This morning, I slept in..." she began "...because I had an odd dream. You proposed to me, and I said no, because I wanted to ensure that your mother approved of my asexuality beforehand." Luna paused, looking at Elias for his reaction. "It bothered me because when I woke up, I realized that you have a high affinity for me. Henceforth, I guessed that you would propose to me within the next two years or possibly a little less. Whenever it happens..." Luna sighed "I wanted to choose a date soon, on which you and I would visit your manor and explain my condition to your parents. Is there a way we could go about doing that?" she asked.

He was silent for a full minute, reflecting over her words before he replied.

"I see..." He said, speaking more to himself than to her, and went quiet for another full minute again. His facial expression was hard to read. He looked like as if he was thinking about the matter.

"Of course, my dear. What do you think about tomorrow?" He asked suggestively. "Sunday is a perfect day when my both parents are home. And the sooner the better..." He smiled as if there was nothing to worry about and he put his hand a top of hers, stroking it lovingly, as if he wanted to tell her that everything was going to be fine. But deep inside he was feeling anxious about it.

This is our concern, if we are happy together without the.... He thought for himself. ...I cannot help but worry about what my mother will think...Merlin's beard...

"Very well...is there anything else you wish to discuss before we leave this office? I have a small surprise for you," He smiled.

"Well, what do you think about enjoying the pool?" Aislinn suggested. "But of course, I mean for yourself," She laughed. "Meanwhile I need to pack my both suitcases."

I hope Alastair has not seen my crazy mess in the closet and the bathroom of the room where I slept... She thought for herself, feeling a bit ashamed.

"I had lots of fun at the pool yesterday, so the turn is yours today. There's a pool slide as well," She revealed excitingly, forgetting that she had asked Raven to conjure it as if she was believing that the pool slide had been there the entire time before she came to this place. She had also forgot about the pool toys which she had conjured yesterday, not being aware that they were still there and won't vanish until two days later.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

While Elias was silent, Luna did what she normally did when she was waiting for something in silence; she played a song in her head. This time, it was Scarborough Fair, one of the first difficult songs she had mastered on the violin.

"I see..." He said, and the music stopped as she looked at his face; she had been looking out the window. At least he is taking me seriously...I thought he would perhaps dismiss my concerns as only a frivolous dream. Luna thought, and then the music returned. The song started over from the beginning.

"Of course my dear. What do you think about tomorrow?" He asked suggestively. "Sunday is a perfect day when my both parents are home. And the sooner the better..." He smiled, comfortingly, his hand a top of hers, stroking it lovingly.

"Perfect. Thank you for understanding my concerns. " Luna sighed, relieved that there wasn't going to be a long wait during which she would grow progressively anxious to break the news to his parents. She felt none of the comfort he was trying to make her feel, although she understood that he wanted her to feel it. "I understand that we are both incredibly anxious on this matter. Henceforth, I cannot thank you enough for choosing a date close to our present time. " Luna said calmly, her anxiety concealed perfectly. "We can only hope that they will understand...." she sighed hopefully. "...in the same way you have."

A moment of silence.

"Well...is there anything else you wish to discuss before we leave this office? I have a small surprise for you," He smiled.

"No, nothing else of importance. " Luna said, deciding to leave the birthday issue for a later time. Not too much time, though. I could possibly miss someone's special day if I wait too long. She thought. "Whatever your surprise is, I am already grateful for something to get my mind off of our impending confrontation." Luna said as she stood up, her eyes grateful for his efforts. I am so very surprised that you did not sit behind the desk. Though, I really shouldn't be, since I learned a while ago that he would rather be on the same level as me than above me...How many times must I learn that?

"Well, what do you think about enjoying the pool?" Aislynn suggested. "But of course, I mean for yourself," She laughed. "Meanwhile I need to pack my both suitcases. I had lots of fun at the pool yesterday, so the turn is yours today. There's a pool slide as well!"

"I don't think that will be necessary." Alastair said calmly. "I need to pack as well. However, I will not take long: If you would like to enjoy the pool again, you may do so; I will pack your things for you. " He said kindly, standing up and nearing her.

When she was about to argue, he spoke, looking into her eyes charmingly, yet his words had the same effect as the night of their picnic when he had asked her why she disliked milk. "I insist; packing up after a vacation is the most boring part. If you could forgo that, and have a nice time instead, I would have done the perfect job." His words were commanding again, although it was clear they weren't that way intentionally.

When she insisted further, he replied "Demons are very efficient; it really would be no trouble at all." Alastair continued. "Most of it is magically done, so it really isn't that much work."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Come with me," Elias smiled and stood up. He opened the door and held it up for Luna so that she could walk out first.

He led the way to the famous painting of a bowl with the fruits. He tickled the pear in the picture until it laughed and turned into a door knob.

"Please wait here, I will be back in a couple of seconds," He said with a mischievous smile before vanishing behind the painting.

He came back quickly, levitating a grand basket, which was carefully covered with a blue and white checkered cloth, behind him.

"Let's go to the lake," He closed the door behind him, and the doorknob turned into the painted pear as if no door had existed there in the first place.

When they passed the Entrance Hall on their way out to the grounds, it was nearly empty, only a few younger students passed through, casting curious glances at their headmistress and headmaster. Elias did not look at anyone and walked with the air of as he did not wish to be interrupted.

At the lake, he took of the cover from the basket, revealing its content, and spread it on the ground. Fresh summer fruits: all kind of berries, seedless cherries, sliced peaches, plums and apricots and melons plated itself on the cloth. Since it was warm weather, a cooling spell had been placed on the fruits to keep them chilled.

The fruit picnic was enchanted that it was playing a soft tune of violin music.

A mysterious smile played on his lips when the music began to play without any visible instrument nearby.

"Please take your seat, my lady..."

Aislinn nearly dropped her jaw when she heard Alastair's reply.

"But why…?" She stood up as well.

"Demons are very efficient; it really would be no trouble at all." Alastair continued. "Most of it is magically done, so it really isn't that much work."

"I can also pack things with magic..." She said quietly. There was a shivering tone in her voice because he had suddenly sound so commanding when speaking to her. It was with great effort she was speaking, as if she was trying to battle his commanding look and insisting tone. "And besides I do not feel it is right that I have fun while you never allow yourself to relax or have fun as well. I understand that it would not be any trouble for you because by nature you are very efficient. And I know that you do have fun when we enjoy things together. But it...it does not feel right that you have to do everything for me. When telling me to have fun while you do all the mundane things such as packing my suitcases as well, it feels like that you are either treating me like a child or that you are degrading yourself to a servant. We are not the same beings, but I am neither a child nor is you a servant...I view us as equals in our relationship..."

Did I speak to much…? She thought as she looked nervously at him.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Luna watched with her familiar emotionless gaze as Elias entered the kitchens, then waited patiently for his return.

"Let's go to the lake."

He has planned a date for us...How charming. Luna thought as they walked together. "The selection of fruits looks enchanting." Luna commented when he began laying out the spread.

A mysterious smile played on his lips when the music began to play without any visible instrument nearby.

She sighed inwardly at the violin music, both enjoying it and appreciating that he had thoroughly planned everything to perfection.

"Please take your seat, my lady..."

Luna was soon seated in a way that she could see the lake, and took another glance at the fruits, then at Elias. What shall I say? I appreciate his efforts immensely, and I love the way he plans surprises; nothing too adventurous or odd; the sort of relaxing things that I can easily enjoy. And the way he plans things to masterfully; he makes it as if everything has a time and a place...So organized. It makes me feel very relaxed. But how to put that into words? Luna looked at him for a few seconds, with an expression that suggested she wished to speak but couldn't place her words properly.

She got an idea a second later, and touched her finger to her brooch. I wish to express my gratitude, but I cannot find the words... Luna thought, looking down, half embarrassed. So I thought I could just share my thoughts with you. I am grateful for the way you plan things so masterfully. It truly relaxes me the way you share my opinion that everything is better when events are thoroughly planned, down to the last detail. When I feel as if you have planned so well, like just now, I feel inexplicably relaxed. Thank you. She thought, removing her finger. She looked at him with a warm smile, and thought she had told him exactly what she felt. I'm so grateful for these brooches. They are so convenient, yet they also allow us to speak privately. If we are ever in a situation where we are being closely watched, we will use these.

"... that you are degrading yourself to a servant. We are not the same beings, but I am neither a child nor are you a servant...I view us as equals in our relationship..."

"Well I do not. " Alastair said plainly. "I have been raised to act in a certain way. I cannot act differently, or else it will feel wrong. It would be like telling you to take in a full breath of water when you go underwater in a pool. You wouldn't do it, correct? Not because you've tried it before; because you know it would be wrong because that is what you have been taught. Please, my lady; allow me to assist you when I think necessary." He wasn't asking; he was telling her. "You should feel no remorse if you let me take care of some mundane tasks for you. I do not grow bored. In fact, it pleases me if I am able to handle things that you do not wish to deal with." he reasoned, his tone softening.

 

[Hikari Chan]

No need to thank me, dear. It pleases me that you find this so relaxing. I am delighted that you are happy... Elias thought with a smile at the same time as he touched his brooch.

He was seated so that he was facing both Luna and the lake at the same time.

"Please, help yourself," He gestured at the assortment of fruits.

"Well I do not. " Alastair said plainly.

Aislinn nearly flinched at his words.

"I have been raised to act in a certain way. I cannot act differently, or else it will feel wrong. It would be like telling you to take in a full breath of water when you go underwater in a pool. You wouldn't do it, correct? Not because you've tried it before; because you know it would be wrong because that is what you have been taught. Please, my lady; allow me to assist you when I think necessary."
She blinked twice, trying to understand what he was saying. Did he just tell me that I should allow him to assist me when he thinks it is necessary? She thought with a frown. The way he has been brought up... She remembered the memories he had shared with her of his past. ..so different from me....I would take advantage of any other man who treated me like this and make a fool of him....but I can never treat Alastair this way because of the feelings I have for him...

"..but it does not feel right-" She started, trying to reason with him.

"You should feel no remorse if you let me take care of some mundane tasks for you. I do not grow bored. In fact, it pleases me if I am able to handle things that you do not wish to deal with." he reasoned, his tone softening.

Wait what? When did I tell him that I did not wish to deal with packing my suitcase...Merlin's beard...

"But when did I tell you that I do not wish to deal with packing my suitcases?" She looked confused at him, yet she could not help but smile. How should I reason with him? ...oh of course…

"Alright, I understand, you may assist me if that pleases you.... As long as you feel pleased, I am pleased.." Her heart stung a little because he did not view her as his equal but rather as if she was lower or higher in position to him. She was clueless of which. "...But on one condition!" She paused and crossed her arms. "Only when I ask you about it. Will that be fine?"

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Please, help yourself," He gestured at the assortment of fruits.

It is not so much the activities we partake in, as the way you act whilst we enjoy them. Luna explained, touching her brooch one last time, as she delicately picked a cherry up with two fingers, and ate it.

Mmm...the perfect combination of sour and sweet, all in one small bite. Luna thought for herself. She tried one bite of everything, then smiled at Elias; in her smile, she attempted to show him that she was truly enjoying the variety of fruits he had chosen. Then, she continued eating, her eyes on the lake, which she found to be a pleasing view. Eventually, she had eaten perhaps one third of the spread, and then resorted to folding her hands calmly.

"But when did I tell you that I do not wish to deal with packing my suitcases?" She looked confused at him yet she could not help but smile.

"It would only make sense; no one would enjoy packing a suitcase. " Alastair said simply.

"Alright, I understand, you may assist me if that pleases you....As long as you feel pleased, I am pleased..."

Alastair smiled, his eyes closed. His features radiated with relief and content.

He was about to offer her his arm when she added "....But on one condition!" She paused and crossed her arms. "Only when I ask you about it. Will that be fine?"

Alastair froze for a moment; hesitating. Then, he pulled out a piece of parchment from his pocket and handed it to her wordlessly. It was folded, so she couldn't read it at first glance.

My dearest Lady,

I fear you would never ask, if I were to await your approval for the mundane tasks. Henceforth, I cannot rely on it. I shall do what I think best, and you shall rest assured that I am pleased with my own efficiency. You are superior to me, and I cannot allow you to perform such boring tasks. All this, of course, could have been spoken aloud. Alas, I have been stalling up until this point.

When Aislynn looked up from the parchment, Alastair was gone. Presumably, he had jumped to the entrance to the hallway and entered her room already. When Aislynn entered her bedroom, the room was flawlessly tidy. Her suitcase stood closed, fully packed: everything inside it had a place, and not a wrinkle could be seen in any of the garments. Alastair stood, his head facing the floor, his hair draped around his face like a curtain, his body bent double in an obedient bow, ready for Aislynn. "My apologies, my lady, but you would not have permitted me otherwise. ", he said quietly. "It is of no importance now, for the job is already done."And he remained standing there, wordless.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Elias smiled as he picked up a slice of watermelon. It was his favorite summer fruit. He ate slightly more than Luna did, indulging the sweetness of every kind of fruit.

He sighed quietly with pleasure when he had finished. It was the one of the best things to do during the summer: to enjoy chilled summer fruits outdoors in the sunlight. Besides that, he also loved to swim in the sea.

Aislinn took the folded parchment with surprise and folded it up. She read its contents with a frown.

My dearest Lady,

I fear you would never ask, if I were to await your approval for the mundane tasks. Henceforth, I cannot rely on it. I shall do what I think best, and you shall rest assured that I am pleased with my own efficiency. You are superior to me, and I cannot allow you to perform such boring tasks. All this, of course, could have been spoken aloud. Alas, I have been stalling up until this point.

Aislinn sighed, shaking her head at the message as if she was telling Alastair that she was not agreeing with him.

She looked up, noticing that he had suddenly disappeared. Merlin's beard, he did not left to pack my suitcases, did he? She thought as she hurried to her bedroom.

When she entered her bedroom, the room was flawlessly tidy. Her suitcase stood closed, fully packed: everything inside it had a place, and not a wrinkle could be seen in any of the garments. Alastair stood, his head facing the floor, his hair draped around his face like a curtain, his body bent double in an obedient bow, ready for Aislinn.

"My apologies, my lady, but you would not have permitted me otherwise," he said quietly. "It is of no importance now, for the job is already done."

First, she just stared at him, not expecting him to bow to her as if she was a queen and as if he was her servant. Then her face went red of shame when she realized that he must have seen how untidy it had been in the bathroom, in her suitcases and the closet. When she had regained her sanity, she walked over to him and put her hands on his shoulders.

"Alastair, please stand up..." She gently lifted him up from his bending position so that he was facing.
"You don't need to apologize, my dear.... I think I am starting to understand now..." She stroked his hair and caressed his right cheek gently. "You do this because you love me, don't you?" She laughed. "...Well....Thank you…" She smiled before embracing him and giving a gentle kiss on his right cheek.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Elias?" Luna asked, looking away from the lake "Are you familiar with the holiday called Halloween?"

"If you were to dress up, in costume, on that day, what would you wear?" she asked curiously.

Alastair's body flinched when he felt Aislynn's hands on him, before he heard her gentle words. He stood up by himself, his eyes curiously surveying her face.

"You don't need to apologize, my dear....I think I am starting to understand now..." She stroked his hair and caressed his right cheek gently.

She's not angered.... he thought, relieved. And she is touching me so gently...

"You do this because you love me, don't you?"

She understands... he thought as relief shone in his eyes.

"..Well....Thank you..." She smiled before embracing him and giving a gentle kiss on his right cheek.

Alastair returned her embrace, his chin resting on the back of her left shoulder. "You understand...." he said quietly. After a moment, he broke away, and spoke as he walked out of the room, going across to his bedroom. "I shall proceed to pack my own suitcase." A few minutes later, he had done the same thing for himself as he had done for her. "Now, what can we do to pass the time until our departure?" Alastair asked Aislynn. "We don't have to stay here; we could go anywhere you wish." he smiled charmingly, putting a hand on her shoulder as he faced her. "Anywhere in the world."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Halloween?" Elias smiled excitingly. "Of course, I used to dress up for that holiday every year..."

"If you were to dress up, in costume, on that day, what would you wear?" Luna asked curiously.

"Hmm..." His eyes twinkled mysteriously. "I would perhaps dress up like a mad hatter" He said tentatively, though the look in his eyes suggested that he would love to surprise her with his Halloween costume. "It will be soon here, just four months left to the special holiday. I think it is time to plan my costume, or what do you think?"

Aislinn smiled lovingly, putting her hand atop of his, caressing it.

"Would it be a problem if you took me on sightseeing in Mexico?" She asked. "I am a bit curious about the place where this villa is located..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"I would perhaps dress up like a mad hatter" He said tentatively, though the look in his eyes suggested that he would love to surprise her with his Halloween costume.

"That would be fun, if the garments and accessories were paired properly." Luna said thoughtfully, imagining him in a long brown coat, a brown vest with a paisley pattern, slightly heeled boots, and a large and whimsical top hat. She smiled at the conclusion.

"It will be soon here, just four months left to the special holiday. I think it is time to plan my costume, or what do you think?"

"Now is the perfect time." Luna agreed serenely. "But I have one last question for you." Luna began. "Should we plan our costumes to match, or should we leave the final results until the event and surprise each other?" We will, no doubt, both choose elegant costumes, as opposed to the sillier ones, or the more revealing ones. Aislynn will choose something fun, and Crystal will choose something charming, yet childish, because inside that is her nature. Raven will, of course, choose something dark and elegant, and Robert hasn't been seen since that day that Raven told me about. That day in the pub, where Aislynn humiliated him and became friends with Crystal again. Only I know what happened to Robert. Luna thought with an inward smile.

"Would it be a problem if you took me on sightseeing in Mexico?" She asked. "I am a bit curious about the place where this villa is located..."

"It would not be a problem, if you remain at my side, with no exceptions." Alastair said strictly. "The crime rate here is impressively high. I suggest that you use the restroom before we begin our tour, so there will be no separations at all. The last thing I desire is to have to kill a bunch of people for even trying to harm my lady." he said protectively. "I shall call Ravenna to prepare the carriage." he said, conjuring a serpent patronus as he turned away from Aislynn. There are attacks every day now. These Muggle drug cartels think they know everything, and they will not hesitate to kill innocents. She knows nothing, I assume, because she scarcely knew what chopsticks or Geisha were, or even where Osaka was. Keeping her safe is my soul objective on this tour. He thought, determined. Not everyone was taught about everyone and everything by force; henceforth, her ignorance isn't her fault. In fact, it is sometimes adorable to see her learn new things beside me.

"Really?" Crystal asked, her face confused.

"Yes." Rosaleya said with an excited smile. "I am not going to let you dress up and go out for Halloween without me. Whatever you are doing on that night, I will keep you company. It's better than sitting in this shop with Dad, all night, listening to him lecture me about not worshipping the Devil and dressing up like a Bunny from a Night Club. I don't want to have to tell him again that I don't do those things on Halloween, and I never will!" she explained with a pleading tone.

"Alright." Crystal laughed. "I cannot see you ever having a desire to even contemplate those things."

"Never." Rosaleya said, shaking her head quickly, her nose wrinkled in disgust.

"Why do you like hanging out with me so much?" Crystal asked, shaking out the wrinkles of a dress shirt, then hanging it up with the others she had been arranging.

"Because you're really cool, like a cute big sister!" Rosaleya said with an admiring smile. "Your basically everything I want to be, but my Dad won't let me." she sighed.

Crystal smiled, flattered. "That's very nice of you. "

"Hey." Rosaleya said after a minute, putting down the book she was supposed to be reading. Her father had given it to her, and it was about thinking before you acted in different situations. It was the most boring book she had ever suffered through. "I'll go get us something nice. Do you want cookies, ice cream, or candy?"

"Guess." Crystal said, not looking away from the last shirt she needed to hang.

"Hmm...Ice cream?"

Crystal nodded.

"What flavor?"

Silence.

"Triple chocolate with bits of chocolate on top: got it!" Rosaleya said, turning for the door.

"Rosaleya! Not without your charm!" Her father called from the back room.

"Right...I forgot!" she called back, sounding genuinely apologetic. Then, rolled her eyes, and picked up a necklace from a drawer inside the front desk. It was a simple chain with a pendant shaped like a cupcake. She put it on, tucked the pendant part under her shirt, and walked out, her body stiff and her expression annoyed.

The pendant he makes her wear; he got it for her when she was six, she says, and he placed a very powerful tracking charm on it. He insists on it if he isn't with her. Crystal sighed, finally finishing with the displays and sitting behind the front desk, her legs crossed. She eyed the book Rosaleya had been reading; she was only one-quarter in. She looked away, then back at it, then away again, uncertain. Finally making up her mind, she picked it up, and read the page she had been on. ...so, you should never let a boy pressure you into something you aren't ready for. Sometimes, saying no is the best solution. Empower yourself. If he can't understand your feelings at the time, he isn't the boy for you. Crystal put the book down just the way she had found it, cringing. Why is he making her read the boring things that everyone already knows? I'd rather burn the book and run away. I miss Aislynn. I'll tell Luna to tell Aislynn to visit me when she comes back to the manor; I want to hang out with her. Her company is really nice... she smiled.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I would love to surprise you on Halloween, unless if you wish us to match our outfits..." Elias replied with a mischievous yet romantic smile. "We once matched our outfits in colors, you do remember, don't you? The ball we went to in Paris." He smiled happily at the memory, but he could not help but sigh silently when he reminded himself of what awaited him tomorrow.

"Alright, I understand," Aislinn replied seriously and went to the restroom meanwhile Alastair sent his Patronus message to Raven. It only took her about ten minutes to fulfill her needs.

Merlin's beard…He is so over protective...he makes me feel like I am powerless, as if I cannot protect myself against muggles... Aislinn thought for herself. Well, I do not blame him...I don't know so much about a country like Mexico, having been living in England the most of my life...perhaps there are dangerous wizards and witches here as well? ...only Merlin knows...

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Luna recalled the ball in Paris quite clearly, and it brought a subtle smile to the corners of her lips. "Elias?" Luna asked, a minute later. "When is your birthday?"

"Thank you." Luna said as she wrote it down on a quill and parchment that seemed to come out of nowhere.

"And your sister's birthday?" she asked tentatively, hoping he would not request a reason for her inquiries. "Your parents'?"

"My birthday?" Luna asked, questioning his reasons. "The second of May." Alastair sends me a thoughtful gift one day before without fail, always with the same message. Do not open until the second of May...

"Now that you are ready, we shall leave." Alastair said kindly, his arm ready for her, as usual. They walked outside with their luggage levitating behind them, to the pool area rather than the front of the villa.

There, Raven stood waiting with the carriage.

The pool slide was in the background. Once they entered the carriage, Alastair laughed. I remain in this kimono; how comical. I will stand out considerably; perhaps I should change it? Alas, there is no need; even if I dress normally I will stand out. That is why I will have Raven follow us as an extra precaution. In case I am temporary distracted, or overpowered. Not many people understand, but the main reason that these Muggle drug cartels are so successful is because they are all the pawns in a war of more powerful Wizards. Why Wizards would want such lowly things as Muggle drugs is beyond me. Alastair moved the table, exposing the view as they made their ascent. They watched the villa shrink beneath them. As they rose higher still, you could see that the villa had been built merely a few miles away from an older looking town, with flat buildings painted many different colours. Alastair could see, even at this distance, that the streets were cobbled.

"This is the city of Campeche, as I mentioned before. This is one of the finer parts of Mexico. Compared to the other cities, the likelihood of encountering any danger is considerably slim. However, I will take the proper precautions whenever someone dear to me is involved." Alastair explained. "The city features baroque Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets and a walled historic district. There are many restaurants, Cathedrals, and parks to view. Tell me which one sounds the most appealing." I wonder if she will ask 'What is a Cathedral?'

 

[Hikari Chan]

"My birthday...." Elias smiled amused. "...the 24th August..."

"Thank you." Luna said as she wrote it down on a quill and parchment that seemed to come out of nowhere.

"And your sister's birthday?" she asked tentatively, hoping he would not request a reason for her inquiries. "Your parents?"

"My sister's birthday is 14th July and my mother's birthday is 25th March and my father's 11th December...." He could not help but laugh because she was so adorable and cute, asking him for birthdays. "And when is your birthday?" He asked.

"My birthday?" Luna asked, questioning his reasons. "The second of May."

"The second of May..." He said, speaking more to himself than to her, making a mental note to remember it.

Don't worry, I won't forget... He thought as he touched his brooch, smiling one of his charming smiles that always hinted about making surprises.

"I am curious about the baroque Spanish architecture," Aislinn replied, feeling excited about the sightseeing.” ...by the way, where is Mexico located in direction to England? When you mention cathedrals and parks, it feels like it is close to France and when you on the other hand mention the Spanish architecture, it feels like close to Spain..."

She had forgotten that she was still wearing her black pajamas. Alastair had packed her suitcases before she had time to react and tell him that she needed to change her clothes. In his rush to pack her suitcases and tidy her room, she had been too astonished to remember to change her clothes.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Thank you." Luna nodded when she was done, and the parchment and quill were gone again. He showed such determination not to forget the date of my birthday...I shall read the date of his once a day, in the hopes of memorizing it. Luna tried to check the time on her wristwatch, but saw that she had neglected to put it on today. "What time is it?" Luna asked, looking up from her bare wrist.

"I am curious about the baroque Spanish architecture" Aislynn replied, feeling excited about the sightseeing.

Charming...how excited she is. It pleases me that I can at least show her the world and teach her new things.

"..by the way, where is Mexico located in direction to England? When you mention cathedrals and parks, it feels like it is close to France and when you on the other hand mention the Spanish architecture, it feels like close to Spain..."

Alastair didn't answer immediately, thinking of what best to say.

So she does know what a Cathedral is...Now how best can I tell her that Mexico and Spain are different places, but they share the same language and certain cultures and architecture?

"Mexico is located south of North America, while Spain is located much further away in Europe. " Alastair began. Stating facts...I just have to picture the story that my mother told me... "A while back, the Spaniards became bored in Spain, so they sought new lands to explore. Many men boarded a ship, and sailed across the sea, which took a painfully long time because they were mere Muggles, and trips by sea were not very common back then, so they had quite a lot of trouble with navigation." he laughed. "Eventually, they came across a new land near North America, and settled there. The people in Mexico are descendants of the Spanish people, so they share many of the same architectural and cultural preferences, as well as the same language. Did I explain it well enough?" Alastair asked. He had lost track of how long he had been talking. In reality, it had only been a single minute.

"How foolish; " Alastair said suddenly "I was so focused on security that I didn't realize you remain in attire only suitable for sleep. Do change into something you like. We will be doing lots of walking, so heels are banned." he joked. It was only humorous because it was obvious already.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"It is soon six o'clock," Elias replied, checking his pocket watch. "...well about ten minutes...time runs away so fast, even when we just were relaxing..." He laughed.

"Aha....I understand now..." Aislinn said thoughtfully as she was picturing North America in her mind. I know North America and Ilvermorny school is located farther away in the west...so Mexico is located south to that... She thought for herself.

"How foolish," Alastair said suddenly "I was so focused on security that I didn't realize you remain in attire only suitable for sleep. Do change into something you like. We will be doing lots of walking, so heels are banned." he joked.

"Oh..." She nearly blushed when she realized that she was still wearing her pajamas. "But don't you think I look so charming in pajamas?" She joked back and then laughed at the thought about walking outdoors in pajamas. "You also need to change," She nodded towards his attire. "If you don't, I will remain in pajamas..." She threatened him before she left to change her clothes. She was of course joking with him.

Ten minutes later, she had changed into the same outfit which she had been wearing during the adventure at mount Fuji yesterday. She had pulled her hair in a messy yet charming hair bun and with her bangs combed down her forehead.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"It is soon six o'clock," Elias replied, checking his pocket watch. "..well about ten minutes...time runs away so fast, even when we just were relaxing..." He laughed.

"It does." Luna said quietly, agreeing.

"Well, I best be on my way. As I told you through our brooches this morning, I would only be available until six this evening. Thank you for such a lovely leisurely afternoon." she said gratefully as she rose from her place.

When he inquired what she would be doing that evening, she replied, with slight hesitation. "Alastair left a note at my door this morning. He told me to be prepared to leave the manor at seven-thirty for an outing. He also specified that he wished for me to wear formal attire." she stated briefly. As if I would ever wear anything else. Casual clothing is so painfully boring that it is unbearable.

After they exchanged their farewells, Luna turned away, making for the gates so that she could use smoke to leave for the manor. She had given herself a full hour and a half to get ready. Not that she would need all the time; Alastair had a habit of showing up earlier than expected... But she had only gotten a few steps away from the picnic spread when she turned back to Elias. "I almost forgot to ask you; are you in the habit of keeping Dreamless Sleep Potion stocked?" she asked. "I planned to use it tonight, since coming in with dark circles under our eyes would set a bad impression from the start." she reasoned. Her tone stated that she was willing to give him some if he did not have any on hand.

"But don't you think I look so charming in pajamas?"

Alastair smiled at her little joke, although he refused to imagine the sorts of perverted looks she would get is she really left the carriage like that.

His smile disappeared when she said "You also need to change. If you don't, I will remain in pajamas..."

Ah. he thought, relieved She is still joking. He folded his hands as he waited for her to return. "Charming once again." he smiled when she came out. "Was there any truth in your joke when you told me to change?" he asked a moment later.

"I'm back!" Rosaleya announced, holding two ice creams; Crystal's triple chocolate, with pieces of crushed chocolate bar on top; resting on a waffle cone half-dipped in crystallized chocolate.

"Yes!" Crystal laughed, launching her fists up in the air in excitement. "And, you remembered the cone!"

"Yes. " Rosaleya smiled, handing Crystal hers. "The ones that they had already were only tipped at the edges-" she pointed to the edge of hers "-but I made them give me one of the half-dipped ones that they hide in the back because the store owners are cheap." she laughed.

"What flavor are you having this time?" Crystal asked, after licking a drop of melted ice cream that was sliding down the side of the cone.

"Salted caramel with pralines." Rosaleya answered knowledgeably.

"Always with the new flavors." Crystal said, shaking her head disapprovingly, although her wide smile revealed that she was joking.

"It's actually really nice, but it just sounds weird. Like pineapple on pizza." she explained.

"That is nice. " she smiled. "Let me try some of yours?" Crystal asked.

"Sure...Here." Rosaleya handed Crystal her cone. "I've only eaten this bite here-" she pointed to a large bite at the side. "-so here's a spoon." she finished as she pulled out the small, plastic spoons that they usually had on hand at ice cream stores, right from her pocket.

"You knew I would want to try it?" Crystal asked, taking the spoon from her.

Rosaleya nodded with a laugh.

"This is really nice. Next time, maybe I'll have one."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"You're welcome, my dear," Elias smiled and stood up. "What is occupying you the coming evening, if I may ask?" He asked as he magically packed all the dishes and the remaining fruits in basket. The violin music stopped just when everything had been cleared and the basket was once covered with the cloth.

Luna replied, with slight hesitation. "Alastair left a note at my door this morning. He told me to be prepared to leave the manor at seven-thirty for an outing. He also specified that he wished for me to wear formal attire." she stated briefly.

"Aha..." Elias was suddenly reminded that he had promised to take his own sister out for her birthday. Merlin's beard, I nearly forget...that's a little less than a month left... He thought. "I wish you a pleasant evening.... please send my greetings to your brother..." Elias had almost forgotten the weird feeling he had had the first time when he had met Alastair.

"I almost forgot to ask you; are you in the habit of keeping Dreamless Sleep Potion stocked?" Luna asked turning around some seconds after they had exchanged their farewells. "I planned to use it tonight, since coming in with dark circles under our eyes would set a bad impression from the start." she reasoned.

Elias looked first confused at her first but then he realized that she was planning about their visit at his place tomorrow. Oh...I understand that she is feeling anxious just like I do about tomorrow.... well, I am thankful that she reminded me about the dreamless potion...

"Oh of course, yes...well even if I have run out of it I will just ask Ivan; he is always stocked up on every potion you can name...do you need a vial of dreamless potion?"

"Well...almost...." Aislinn replied with a soft laugh. "..I would actually never dress in pajamas or something that looks like a morning or night robe in public...even if it is only a kimono, I feel I can only wear a kimono when being in Japan...but if you are comfortable in your outfit anywhere you don't need to change..." She smiled.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Oh of course, yes...well even if have run out of it I will just ask Ivan, he is always stocked up on every potion you can name...do you need a vial of dreamless potion?"

Who is...never mind; most likely an acquaintance of his that owns a potions store. "No. I have plenty. I keep all potions thoroughly stocked. " Luna said. When I get down to three viles, it's time to make a new batch. She smiled at the thought of running out, which had literally never happened. "Farewell, and have a pleasant evening." Luna said with the slight bow of her head, and then she turned away.

She walked the whole way without looking back, until she reached the gate, and disappeared in a puff of black smoke. Now now....What shall I wear? I am overjoyed that I get some time to spend with Alastair...just the two of us.

"...I feel I can only wear a kimono when being in Japan..."

That is like saying a school girl can only wear her uniform if she is in school, but must quickly change before making any stops on the way home, is it not?

"...but if you are comfortable in your outfit anywhere you don't need to change..." She smiled.

Alastair smiled, and they began their descent.

"You said that the Baroque Spanish architecture sparked your interests. We shall first be visiting a charmingly grand cathedral that interested me when I first explored this city. " Alastair smiled. 'Only the best for you' his smile said.

Raven opened the door for them when they landed on the rooftop of an apartment building.

"Welcome to the city of Campeche, my lady." Alastair said elegantly after they had left the carriage, and stared out onto a lovely view. There were many multicoloured buildings, a park with a water fountain not too far away, a grand cathedral in the near distance and a few more grand-looking buildings spread out further away. Alastair turned to Aislynn with a charming smile. "Would you prefer to apparate to ground level, or shall I jump with you in my arms?"

When Aislynn replied that she would like to jump with him, Alastair extended his arms, spreading them gracefully as if he was inviting her into an embrace. When she neared him, he held her firmly, and he performed another one of his elegant jumps, stepping off the edge of the building as if there was an invisible first step connected to stairs to the bottom. They landed softly on the cobbled streets, where he put her down gently. Oddly enough, no one stared. They all seemed quite busy with their present tasks.

"We shall enjoy this sunny walk through the city. It won't be long until we reach the cathedral, but would you perhaps like to stop by a shop as we pass and purchase something to drink as we walk?" he smiled.