Fandom The Gathering of Death Eater Children

[Hikari Chan]

"Oh, alright..." Aislinn laughed. She kept the gown she was wearing

but left the wig behind before taking her own clothes, folded in her arms, with her. She had already planned to fix her hair at the hair parlor in Diagon Alley just the same morning of the Halloween day. She smiled at the thought that no one was going to recognize her but Alastair and Raven, on that day and remembered the last time when she had totally changed her appearance for a planned attack on a gala in the past.

On their way out, Aislinn's eyes fell on the costume which the lady at the front desk was wearing. She immediately fell in love with that dress, especially the sleeves and made a mental note that she would get an almost similar dress like her.

"So, my dear, our final stop for the night would be a restaurant for dinner." Alastair said as they walked out the entrance and gazed at the canal at night. The scenery looked so enchanting that Aislinn wished to ride in a gondola to the restaurant and then back to the carriage.

"What do you desire?" he asked smilingly, stretching his arms wide theatrically.

"I would like pineapple and pepperoni pizza in a gondola," She replied with a wide grin not realizing what she was actually saying. What she had said, the choice of meal, her expression and herself dressed in a white Victorian gown which showed most of her tattoos and her black straight hair fluttering in the soft wind, all of these made her look comical. She burst out in laughter when she realized what she had said.

"I actually meant that I wish to ride in a gondola to the restaurant, eat pizza there and then take the gondola back to the carriage..." She explained when she had calmed down and brushed away her tears of joy. "But if it is possible to enjoy dinner in a gondola, I don't mind at all..." She added and burst out in laughter again.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

She couldn't pick any other dress? White is so pretentious! Raven thought, annoyed as she followed discreetly behind them. Well, I'll go fly around for a bit until they need me again... she sighed as she took off. It wasn't until she soared high enough that she relaxed a bit. It wasn't until she relaxed a bit that she realized that most of Christine's dressed had been white.

"I would like pineapple and pepperoni pizza in a gondola," Aislynn replied with a wide grin not realizing what she was actually saying.

While Aislynn was laughing at herself, Alastair was serious, pondering how best to get the food from a restaurant into a gondola, and which route to take that would be both romantic, and long enough for Aislynn to enjoy her meal.

"I actually meant that I wish to ride in a gondola to the restaurant, eat pizza there and then take the gondola back to the carriage..." She explained when she had calmed down and brushed away her tears of joy.

Alastair nodded, his eyes distant; he was still trying to decide which route to take.

"But if it is possible to enjoy dinner in a gondola, I don't mind at all..." She added and burst out in laughter again.

"I understand, my lady." Alastair said a moment later; he had decided. "We will purchase the food normally, and I will tell my friend at the restaurant that we will eat them on a boat. I will promise to return the plates, and it should be fine." Alastair nodded, thinking out loud as he approached their gondola. He carefully stepped in, graceful even though the boat rocked as he entered. He extended his arms to assist her, intent upon not allowing her to fall into the water because of poor balance, as he once had. Even though it rocked in a way that would throw a normal person off, he remained gracefully standing, extending two strong arms to support Aislynn. "Now..." he instructed as she stepped inside. "...we will sit down at the same time. On three..." he paused. "One...two...three." he said calmly, and they slowly sat down together. "We shall begin our journey." Alastair said calmly, and the boat began gliding across the canal.

Alastair remained silent during the three minute ride, making plans to ask for his monthly pay-check from the Shiki Agency on the next Monday, rather than wait until the end of the month. "Here we are." he pointed as they drew closer to their intended destination. "Please wait for us here." he said, apparently speaking to the boat. Once the boat had stopped completely, Alastair carefully got out, and turned around to assist Aislynn. He looked back sternly at the boat before leaving, as if warning it not to try anything, but remain in its place. The boat seemed to have understood him completely, for it did not move an inch, but remained bobbing up and down in the water. He offered her his hand, and they entered the restaurant together.

The entrance had white pillars built in the Roman style, and were ornamented with several herb vines. There was no sign indicating the name of the place, but Alastair had always referred to it mentally as Loretto’s, for that was the name of the owner and manager there.

"Ah, Mr. DiVilliers! It has been too long!" A young, cleanly-shaven Italian man greeted them in an Italian accent, extending a warm hand toward Alastair.

"Good afternoon, Loretto, charming to see you again.” Alastair said elegantly.

Then Loretto turned to shake hands with Aislynn “And your lady is more beautiful than I remembered her.” He complimented genuinely. “I love your outfits; I see he has gotten you into thinking that Halloween is every day, yes?” Loretto joked to Aislynn.

Thinking back, it seemed that Alastair had worn something unusually eccentric many times, in public places. He had done it with the air that it was normal…Like on Halloween.

"Now, to your favorite table! Only the finest for you, Sir! No one touched your favorite table!” Loretto said proudly, leading them further inside. He led them past several small tables, all with hand-carved wooden chairs. The inside walls were mainly square pillars, holding up the ceiling; there were no windows or doors, because everything was open. They followed him up a flight of even wooden stairs, onto a large open terrace which gave a lovely view of the canal and surrounding buildings. A small water fountain stood centered on the terrace, flowing blue water just like the canal. "Your table, Sir." Loretto smiled, gesturing to a table near the edge, but not too close.

"Thank you. “ Alastair said as he pulled out a chair for Aislynn. “This time, I will be trying something different.” Alastair began.

"Different? How?" Loretto asked, eager to please Alastair.

“I wish to take my lady on a…cruise…but we wished to enjoy your food at the same time. So, I wondered if you could serve us normally, and we could take everything with us, enjoy our meal, and courteously return the plates and glasses to you afterward?”

“That would not be a problem at all, Sir!” Loretto sighed. It appeared that he had expected something more complicated.

“Very well then. One pepperoni and pineapple pizza, please. Two tall glasses of water, as cold as-"

"-As cold as possible!" Loretto interrupted Alastair's reminder to show him that he still remembered how he liked his water.

"Yes." Alastair laughed, before continuing. "Any juice, my lady?" Alastair turned to Aislynn briefly. "They serve fresh juices here; apple, orange, lemon with mint, and tomato. " he listed the items off the menu.

"Very well. Then, I would like your pennae pasta with pesto, and that concludes our order."

“Yes yes, Sir. " Loretto said; he had been writing quickly. "Ten minutes, fifteen at the most…” he promised as he quickly made for the stairs.

“A hard-working, disciplined man, he is…” Alastair sighed appreciatively. “There are not a lot of people like him left in this world…Not these days…But enough of this chatter; tell me, my dear Christine-” Alastair joked. “-What do you have to say about our weekend together? Are you satisfied with our activities, or do you wish that we could have done more? Is there anything that you wouldn’t do again?” he asked, preparing to take mental notes on whatever she said next. For now, we will enjoy the lovely view. Alastair thought. As I plan for next weekend.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Aislinn smiled surprisingly at Alastair's decision. She could not help but chuckle at the thought that he had taken her seriously because she had first spoken without thinking and second, she had not been expecting it to be possible to eat in the gondola. She was feeling happy that he fulfilled anything she wished for. ...and I will always fulfil anything he wish in return... She thought lovingly.

She stepped in the gondola, with his help, like the last time. This time it was much more difficult to maintain her balance because she was wearing a wide gown, though with his help she managed to step in without stumbling the slightest. Then they both sat down at the same time at his count on three.

It did not take long until they reached the restaurant and Aislinn recognized it from the last time she had visited it. She smiled happily at the thought that Alastair had brought her to this same restaurant because she liked its food and found it cozy yet elegant.

"Hello, Good evening," Aislinn smiled politely as she shook hands with Loretto. She remembered the restaurant manager and owner as well. She laughed friendly at his joke and replied politely: ".... Not really heheh...."

She was surprised that she and Alastair was led all the way to his favorite table. Couldn't we just have ordered food down in the first floor of the restaurant... She thought confused since she was expecting to eat in the gondola just as he had promised her.

She sat down on the chair which Alastair drew out for her whilst he explained for Loretto how and where they were going to dine this time and then placed their orders.

"Any juice, my lady?" Alastair turned to her briefly. "They serve fresh juices here; apple, orange, lemon with mint, and tomato. " he listed the items off the menu.

"If you also take juice, I will take same as you," She smiled. "Your favorite choice of juice," She winked with her right eye.

"Very well. Then, I would like your pennae pasta with pesto, and that concludes our order."

“Yes, yes, Sir." Loretto said; he had been writing quickly. "Ten minutes, fifteen at the most…” he promised as he quickly made for the stairs.

“A hard-working, disciplined man, he is…” Alastair sighed appreciatively. “There are not a lot of people like him left in this world…Not these days…But enough of this chatter; tell me, my dear Christine-” Alastair joked and Aislinn could not help but giggle because he had called her Christine.


“-What do you have to say about our weekend together? Are you satisfied with our activities, or do you wish that we could have done more? Is there anything that you wouldn’t do again?” he asked, preparing to take mental notes on whatever she said next.

She was speechless for a full minute before replying: "It has been a such wonderful and enjoyable weekend, more than I can describe. I cannot express my gratitude enough for you..." She sighed contently. "And the time have passed so fast...." She added with a laugh and remained silent because she had no idea about what she liked to do more of or if there was something she liked to do more or less. She did not only enjoy the activities but also enjoyed the time she spent with him. She looked up at him with both happiness and love reflecting in her eyes and then she stood up, placing her arms around his neck. "...Well honestly..." She finally said, speaking softly, replying to his last questions. "...whatever we do together, I enjoy and love to spend time with you..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

She enjoyed everything...She is very grateful...I am happy that she appreciates my efforts. Alastair thought as he put his hand on Aislynn's, looking into her eyes lovingly. "It pleases me that you enjoyed yourself." The theatre was my favorite. . . Alastair thought. And the Japanese breakfast this morning...

"Your food is ready, Sir." Loretto said, faster than expected.

"Thank you." Alastair said, standing. He linked arms with Aislynn, and then they followed Loretto downstairs.

Their order was already loaded onto their boat, on a small table with a checkered tablecloth and two candles.

"Why thank you, Loretto. " Alastair said gratefully. "But the candles-"

"Are magically stable; they won't burn the boat." Loretto laughed.

"Lovely. " Alastair confirmed, and then turned to Aislynn as they continued to the boat "Just what you wanted, hmm?" he smiled. 'You wish is my command.' his smile said.

He helped her inside the boat, just as before, and they sat down on the count of three. "Now we can resume our journey." Alastair said, obviously talking to the boat, which began smoothly at once, proceeding to pass the restaurant, where Loretto was standing, admiring the romantic couple.

They passed many more restaurants, cafes, shops. Some sold clothes, paintings, food, chocolates, and desserts. In time, they were out of the canal, and soon it was just a collection of lights in the distance. The calm, dark waters mirrored the starry sky and bright moon above. It was beautiful.

"Are you enjoying everything?" Alastair asked as he took a sip of water. He seemed to have forgotten his plate of pasta; he had been watching Aislynn like a mother watches her child as she gives him a surprise gift. . . Always trying to catch the little things that are never said, but rather, felt.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Lovely." Alastair confirmed, and then turned to Aislinn as they continued to the boat "Just what you wanted, hmm?" he smiled. 'You wish is my command.' his smile said.

She blushed deeply and smiled gratefully towards him. It was more than she had expected. A table and candles. She had thought that she would sit with a wrapped pizza in her hand in the boat. She is not a fancy girl and would not have mind if that had been that case. It would have made her happy as this surprise had made her now. She was feeling very grateful.

When she took her seat in the boat and it started to move, she wondered if she should start to eat or not. She noticed that he had not touched his food yet and she realized that he perhaps waited for reaching a perfect spot out in the waters where they could enjoy their food. When they had passed the last shop and were out of the canal, the restaurants, cafes and shops creating a collection of lights in the distance, they reached to a spot, where the waters were calm and mirrored the starry sky and bright moon. Aislinn took a deep breath as she looked around her, without turning away from Alastair. This beautiful view reminded her about the dream she had last night and made her nearly speechless. She almost forgot about the pizza.

"Are you enjoying everything?" Alastair asked as he took a sip of water.

"....eh...I... lovely..." She blushed, smiling gratefully towards him and then her eyes fell on the food. "...eh...shall we...?" She gestured at the meal. "...before the food runs cold..." She laughed nervously before picking up a slice of pizza with her right hand. But before she took a bite, she realized what she was doing and put the slice of pizza back on the plate and picked up her fork and knife.

Merlin's beard...I must not forget that I am not for myself at home... She thought, her face red of shame when she thought about how she had nearly relaxed too much to use a less polite manner at a romantic dinner with Alastair.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"....eh...shall we...?" She gestured at the meal. "...before the food runs cold..." She laughed nervously before picking up a slice of pizza with her right hand.

Alastair looked away, pretending not to mind as he picked up his fork to begin with his pasta.

But she quickly switched to a fork and knife, an embarrassed look on her face.

He immediately discarded his fork onto the napkin it had originally been placed on, and leaned forward slightly. "It's alright-" he said, putting his hand on top of the hand holding her fork, his eyes meeting hers. There was that calming feeling emanating from him once again as he spoke genuinely "-you don't have to use a fork and knife if you don't want to...Your comfort is more important than some silly rules that a human made up." he referenced table manners. "Please...", he insisted when he thought she might argue. "...just relax. I don't want you to focus too much on what you think you should do. Do what comes naturally." He briefly imagined her retorting that he should do the same. Well, I am different. He imagined saying in return. You know that...Besides, my lady, you are the only one that matters right now.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"It's alright-" Alastair said, putting his hand on top of Aislinn's hand holding her fork, his eyes meeting hers. She nearly forgot to breath as she met his eyes.

There was that calming feeling emanating from him once again as he spoke genuinely "-you don't have to use a fork and knife if you don't want to...Your comfort is more important than some silly rules that a human made up." he referenced table manners.

She was about to tell him that she was fine, but she could not interrupt him as he spoke. "Please..." he insisted. "...just relax. I don't want you to focus too much on what you think you should do. Do what comes naturally."

She hesitated for a second before putting down her knife and fork and picked the slice of pizza, holding it half folded between her thumb and index finger.

My grandmother is not here... She thought for herself, trying to relax as she took a small bite of her pizza slice. She could feel the cheese elongate in between her closed lips and the pizza slice. It was her favorite part when eating pizza, to watch the cheese being pulled out in long strings. But that made her feel a bit uncomfortable in front of Alastair because she thought she looked messy when she ate that way. It was hard to bite of the cheese at the instant and she could not stuff a whole pizza slice in her mouth either. She pinched off the long strings of cheese with her left thumb and index finger and forced herself to finish the slice of pizza the way she used to eat.

"Well, I don't want cheese dangling on my white dress...." She laughed nervously and ate the rest of the pizza with her knife and fork. "Otherwise I prefer to eat pizza with my hands and pull out the cheese in long strings...I don't know why I enjoy it...but I always feel fascinated when I see the long strings of cheese..."

My grandmother always find it gross when I do this with pizza in front of her or eat certain meals with my hands...she thinks I am playing with the food... She thought amused.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Well, I don't want cheese dangling on my white dress...." She laughed nervously and ate the rest of the pizza with her knife and fork. "Otherwise I prefer to eat pizza with my hands and pull out the cheese in long strings...I don't know why I enjoy it....but I always feel fascinated when I see the long strings of cheese...." Mother didn't like me doing that...That's why I was forced to eat with a knife and fork...I hated it, so I thought that she...Never mind! He thought irritatedly. Sometimes, what I think of as 'fun' turns out to be impractical...Her dress would look horrid if there were stains in places where it must remain immaculate. She must think of my words just now as...foolish...

"That is interesting. " Alastair said, picking up his fork again. "This is rather delectable; would you like a taste?" he asked romantically, referencing his pennae pesto. The basil and pine nuts in the pesto were very aromatic.

When Aislynn replied with a 'yes', the edges of Alastair's mouth curled upward in a subtle smile. With his fork raised with a bite of pasta ready at the tip, he leaned forward, and gently watched as Aislynn tasted the food.

The wheat pasta was cooked perfectly, and it had just the right amount of seasonings and pesto, with some freshly-grated Parmesan cheese on top.

"Hmm?" he asked, eager for her opinion as he sat straight again. I doubt she has tried wheat pasta before. It is much more filling than white pasta, and has a very nutty taste, if cooked properly.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"That is interesting." Alastair said, picking up his fork again. "This is rather delectable; would you like a taste?" he asked romantically, referencing his pennae pesto.

Aislinn blushed as she smiled and mumbled a yes.

The edges of Alastair's mouth curled upward in a subtle smile. With his fork raised with a bite of pasta ready at the tip, he leaned forward. While he did that, she took the opportunity to lean forward with her fork with a bite of pizza without pepperoni. She already knew that he was familiar with the taste of pizza with cheese and pineapple, though she wanted to share a bite with him more of a romantic reason. She looked romantically at him as she gently reached her fork with the bite of pizza towards his mouth before taking the bite of pasta from his fork.

"Hmm?" he asked, eager for her opinion as he sat straight again.

"Mmmm..." She smiled with closed lips as she tasted the bite of pennae pesto. "Lovely..." She commented with a sigh when she had finished eating it and then took a sip of her cold water. She was referring to both the pasta and to the way they romantically had exchanged bites of their meals.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Your pizza is lovely as well." Alastair said in return, a loving look in his eyes. "Feel free to take as much of this as you like." he smiled, pointing briefly to his plate. "I am happy that you appreciated the wheat pasta. Have you ever tried it before?"

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Thank you, but no, I am fine," Aislinn smiled. "I have eaten some pasta before, but I cannot recall if it has been wheat or not"

As she cut the pizza into smaller bites, she twirled the cheese with her fork before taking a bite. As she ate, her eyes fell on the dark water.

Dark as Valetta... It brought back memories about the underwater restaurant. Well, I won't put my foot in that restaurant after that incident... Aislinn thought for herself. ...but one day I will invite Sheila to my wedding...and Sherwood....let's not forget him as well hehe.... Aislinn thought spitefully and kept eating with a smug expression.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Alastair looked to the water as well, and saw the sky mirrored in it. He looked upward to the real sky, at the moon, and sighed. The moon...Even the moon reminds me of you... He lowered his gaze and looked at Aislynn again. By that time, they had finished eating, and they were nearing another Wizarding canal. "My lady, I have an engagement to attend to. Are you contented to return to the carriage and head back to London, or would you like to remain here for a while with Ravenna and enjoy the sights a bit more?"

"I'm ready, and quite excited!" Luna sighed, smiling. "And it's ten to seven...He'll be here so soon. I haven't felt this much anticipation since...Well, you know when." she said to Nagini, brushing the thought off. She wore a long black dress, long velvet gloves reaching up to two inches below her shoulders, and a simple black choker.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I'd prefer to return home," Aislinn replied smilingly. I have planned to give Crystal a surprise visit tomorrow...It is Sunday tomorrow and a perfect day, because I guess she won't be at Hogwarts but maybe visiting Rosaleya in the clothing shop where she likes to shop for clothes. Hopefully we will have the chance to be for ourselves if Alastair is not a clingy person... She thought for herself but did not mention anything. How is the best way to tell him that it is girls' day only tomorrow? Just that I am going to see Crystal. Well, I will see tomorrow...

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Very well." Alastair said, and the boat sped up slightly through the canal. I do so wish to spend the day with Luna tomorrow...I don't think Aislynn is the jealous type, but I am still uncertain of how to tell her...

In a few minutes, they reached a shop that sold moving oil paintings, and Alastair said "That will do." to the boat, which stopped. He assisted her as they left the boat, and Alastair turned back to warn the boat not to leave. Then, he held his arms wide for Aislynn to embrace him; he was obviously preparing to jump with her to the rooftop. Once on the rooftop, they saw that Raven was waiting by the carriage, holding the door open. "My lady-" Alastair said when Aislynn had sat down inside the carriage, "-permit me a moment to return the dishes to Mr. Loretto?"

"I shan't be more than three minutes." he smiled, bowing to her before he left, closing the carriage door behind him.

"Aislynn?" Raven asked. It was startling to see her inside the carriage, standing just behind the couch, when no one had seen her enter. "Is there anything I can assist you with in preparation for tomorrow?" she asked helpfully.

Meanwhile, Alastair had jumped back down to the gondola, collected the plates, and dismissed the boat. He then proceeded to jump back to the rooftop where the carriage waited, and jumped several buildings from there. The hardest part was making certain that the dishes weren't dropped. Within a minute he had reached the restaurant.

"Ah! How was it, Sir?" Loretto asked happily, as a waiter hurried to take the dishes from Alastair.

"So romantic; she seemed to enjoy everything. " Alastair said gratefully. "And I appreciated that you remembered my preference for wheat pasta; I myself had forgotten to specify."

"I will never forget; I keep a paper with all of your preferences on it, Sir." Loretto smiled as Alastair shook hands with him in farewell.

"Goodnight, Mr. DiVilliers!"

"Farewell, Loretto."

Alastair was back in three jumps, and he opened the carriage door to greet Aislynn. "I have returned, my lady." he bowed.

Total time elapsed since departure: four minutes.

After greetings were exchanged, he went into his bedroom and locked the door. He proceeded to change his clothes for his night with Luna. He came out a few minutes later, having donned a black tuxedo, dressy shoes, and a top hat. He sat down next to Aislynn without a word, checking his pocket watch. Three minutes until...I'm going to be late...

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Sure..." Aislinn nodded, before entering the carriage.

"Aislynn?" Raven asked, startling Aislinn that she nearly jumped backwards because she had not been expecting to see Raven inside the carriage all of sudden.

"Oh hello..." Aislinn said surprised.

"Is there anything I can assist you with in preparation for tomorrow?" Raven asked helpfully.

"Eh...yes, just pull down the zipper please," Aislinn replied pointing at the back of her dress at the same time as she turned her back at Raven so she could pull down the zipper of the dress for her.

"Thank you," Aislinn said gratefully, glad that Raven was here at the right time at the right place. Because it is so tedious to pull down and up zippers from behind...and I cannot just ask Alastair... She thought, her face suddenly turning red at her own thoughts as she went to change her clothes.

Aislinn tried to think about seeing Crystal tomorrow to stir her mind away from forbidden thoughts as she changed her clothes to her usual ones she had been wearing, a pair of black trousers and a black thin turtle neck shirt. But her mind was trying to go elsewhere, stirring her thoughts towards her wild imaginations. She shook her head and tried to think about Crystal.
As Aislinn was trying to see forward tomorrow, she tried imagining herself meeting her best friend but in the midst of her thoughts her mind twisted and suddenly she was back imagining Alastair pulling down the zipper of her dress. Aislinn slapped herself hard in the face and washed her face with ice cold water.

"I have returned, my lady." Alastair bowed when Aislinn, her face pale and speckled in red, left her bedroom.

"Uhm ehe hello ehe..." She blurted out nervously and bit her lower lip. She had not noticed that he had taken one minute longer to return. She let out her breath, having forgotten to breath in his sudden presence, and sat down on the couch when he went to his bedroom. Think about Crystal...see forward tomorrow.... ice cream.... yes, we are going to have lots of ice cream tomorrow....

When Alastair came out and sat down next to Aislinn without a word, her heart started to beat unnaturally fast. ...Ice cream...cookies...candies...yes...I and Crystal tomorrow, yes......and then I will have some bubble bath in the evening....bubble bath with Alastair...Merlin's beard no...No...oh my...what I am thinking....bubble bath alone...yes alone...Ice cream and candies with Crystal....bubble bath alone.....

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Is something the matter? Alastair wondered. He sensed an uneasy aura coming from Aislynn. Best not to disturb her thoughts...If she needs help, I am certain that she will voice her problems...At least, I hope she will.

Ten minutes later they began their descent, and they soon landed in front of the manor.

"This is where I leave you for the night, my lady." Alastair said after they had left the carriage. "It is seven twelve, and I do hope that you enjoy your night." he said as he bowed. When he stood up straight, he looked at Aislynn with a charming smile. "Farewell" he said. And then he jumped to his balcony window, and rushed to Luna's bedroom door.

In Aislynn's bedroom, a gift wrapped in pitch black wrapping paper lay on her bed. A note was attached. From Alastair it said in elegant handwriting. The card was also black, but the ink was a lovely royal purple. The ink was scented to smell like fresh blackberries and cream, and was very potent even from inches away. The gift was a small square box, like a fancy box for chocolates, containing a black velvet bag of lots of little flakes which are scented like the richest, most delicious chocolate. A card with instructions, in Alastair's handwriting, said that they were similar to 'bath bombs', and that one tablespoon would make an entire bath perfectly potent. Jokingly, he added that they were not edible, then reminded her to keep them sealed tightly in the bag. At the foot of her bed were her suitcases from earlier that day, lying open; they were empty. Except for the underclothes, which remained untouched. Everything was put back in its place, and even the closets were immaculate. Not a wrinkle could be found in anything. The only places that hadn't been organized were the places where she kept her underclothes. Her bathroom was spotless as well; even the towels were folded neatly, and the ones that were hanging were hung on the bar so that both sides were the same length. The mirror for the bathroom, and the vanity and her bedroom had been wiped clean as well. There was a fresh bar of soap in her bathroom; it was scented like chocolate. The bed sheets were crisp and clean, and there was a small piece of chocolate wrapped in a silver wrapper on the pillow. It was smooth milk chocolate with creamy mint filling, and charmed to deliver a message from Alastair in Aislynn's ear when she tasted it.

Even the bottles on her vanity and the hairbrush...They are all lined up straight... Raven thought as she watched Aislynn's reaction.

Knock...knock.

"Come in!" Luna called in a voice so smooth it was almost as if she was singing.

Alastair came in, with a warm smile upon his face.

Luna smiled excitedly, her arms wide open, and Alastair rushed toward her, picking her up and spinning around once before putting her down again, and they both embraced.

"I apologize for my lateness, my lady. " Alastair whispered in her ear, his eyes filled with pleasure at seeing her again. Although it had only been a few days, he had missed her very much.

"It matters not; my excitement has chased away any other feelings or thoughts." Luna said softly with closed eyes.

A few minutes later they broke their embrace and stood up straight again.

"You have, no doubt, dressed perfectly for the occasion." Alastair said as he offered his arm to Luna.

"Where, might I ask, will you be taking me?" Luna asked eagerly.

"To an opera, my love." Alastair said warmly as they walked out the door. "There is a lovely show starting in an hour at a grand opera house here in London. The last time I took you was...your eighteenth, was it not?"

"Yes...You made my birthday that year so perfect...With the dress and the opera...And the bedtime story at the end." Luna laughed. "I thought that those were just for children."

"Not the way I tell them..." Alastair smiled darkly.

Outside, the carriage was waiting for them, and Alastair helped Luna inside.

"This carriage is beautiful..." Luna sighed, looking around in wonder.

"It is, is it not? Ravenna designed the entire thing herself. It works as a lavish hotel for the night, or a romantic carriage ride to wherever you need to go!" Alastair said grandly, announcing it as if he was trying to sell it to a newly-wed couple.

Luna laughed quietly, and Alastair watched her for a moment, forgetting where he was. She laughs...I tell her stories and make jokes. She smiles...I am there to make her smile. It wasn't until he felt the carriage shift slightly as they made their ascent that he remembered where he was. "Please, sit down." Alastair gestured to the couch.

"Thank you." Luna said as she sat down.

And their journey began. Luna enjoyed the view from the full-length window to her left, and Alastair enjoyed watching Luna take pleasure in the view. When they landed minutes later, Luna was surprised at how little time it had taken. Alastair smiled and helped her down from the carriage. They stood before the grand opera house, admiring the view as they walked, arm in arm, up the many stairs leading to the entrance.

I'm so happy to be spending time with Alastair... Luna thought happily. All worried thoughts of tomorrow's confrontation at Elias's manor had been driven from her mind.

I've made her happy again...I love it when she is happy... Alastair thought. Even when she isn't smiling, I can see it in her eyes; I can sense the joy radiating from her so powerfully.

They walked around the opera house a bit and took great pleasure in gazing at the architecture. The opera house was built in the French style, with many stairs, pillars, and arched ceilings.

"Fifteen minutes until, my lady." Alastair said, checking his watch as Luna was admiring yet another ceiling.

"Yes...of course..." Luna said absent-mindedly; she didn't look away from the ceiling.

Alastair laughed at her fascination, finding it charming. I made certain to bring her here at least an hour early, so that we could take our time to admire the architecture. I remember she loves the way the French build their illustrious opera houses.

"I think that it is very interesting to look at when the ceiling bends like that. It makes me think that if Alice in Wonderland was real, these ceilings would be everywhere. I like them-" she finally tore her eyes away to meet Alastair's "-because they are very whimsical and unusual."

"I see. I agree; they are whimsical." he smiled, leading her to the main room where the show would begin shortly.

"I loved the entire show!" Luna breathed once they had left the opera house again. "The story was so interesting that I found myself..." she struggled to explain.

They were descending the stairs of the entrance.

"-Forgetting where I was and becoming enveloped in the plot?" Alastair finished helpfully.

"Precisely." Luna laughed.

That's how I feel when I am with.... Alastair thought lovingly.

"What time is it?" Luna asked.

"Ten thirteen."

"Ah..." Luna nodded. She wanted to extend the night; anything to avoid parting with Alastair when they hadn't spent so much time together in such a long while.

They were in front of the carriage again, and Alastair was helping her inside.

"Perhaps we could head back to the manor, and have another splendid time with our violins? Or we could waltz the night away?" Alastair offered.

Both sound so lovely... Luna thought.

"Or perhaps, we could do both." Alastair said, lovingly pulling a loose strand of Luna's hair back behind her ear.

Luna smiled warmly, looking away.

Soon, they were waltzing in the center of the labyrinth, to wonderful music being played by an array of instruments that Alastair had selected.



They danced to many more songs until they both wished for a break, and Alastair summoned freezing cold water with a very realistic fake wand. And then they each picked up a violin and began playing together.



Luna played with her eyes open, focusing on the perfection of the notes, paying less attention to the way she felt while paying. She enjoyed it, but perfection was the dominant focus.

Alastair played with his eyes closed; his fingers played the notes perfectly no matter what; as long as he felt the passion of the music, the notes came so smoothly that it was a wonder he never opened his eyes. To anyone watching, it would, of course, have looked rather contrived.

When they grew tired of that, Alastair suggested that they retire for the night.

They left for their separate rooms.

When Luna had changed into her nightgown for the night, and lay down in bed, there was a knock at her door. "Whom knocks at this late hour?" Luna asked plainly. 1:09 her clock said.

"'Tis I, the reader of bedtime stories." Alastair replied mysteriously.

"...Come in..." Luna replied through her laughter.

"Would you like for me to tell you a story?" Alastair asked lovingly after coming in and closing the door.

Luna nodded her head, silently admiring his black kimono; he had used the temporary healing potion to remove his scars, leaving only his smooth, hairless skin. Of course, Luna knew nothing. It's such a pretty kimono for sleeping in. I wonder where I could purchase a similar one for me? I would love to sleep in such a thing.

"Once upon a time..." Alastair began, sitting at the edge of her bed, with his hand on top of hers as she lay down, a loving look in his eyes.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Good night..." Aislinn nearly whispered. She found it a bit weird yet charming that Alastair said Farewell even if they were seeing each other so often.

She watched him as he jumped up to the balcony and vanished behind the curtains of the windows before she took a longer way, entering through the main doors and taking the stairs up to her bedroom.

Aislinn was taken by great surprise when she entered her bedroom. She stood paralyzed of surprise in her doorway staring for several minutes until she managed to bring herself to move.

Everything was tidied and organized, almost everything. She noticed that only her underclothes were untouched, and her hand shook a little as she placed them in one of the drawers in her closet. Then she walked into the bathroom, feeling impotent to touch anything as if she was scared that she would leave dirty finger prints or mess anything.

It is lovely to come home and find things so neatly tidied and cleaned, she thought happily even if smelled to much of chocolate in her opinion, she preferred the scent of flowers. ...but Merlin's beard, I could have done it myself...seriously, cleaning and tidying with magic is not as tedious as how muggles do. But it does not matter how many times I try to explain this to Alastair, he choose to do this because he is fond of me...I need to do something for him in return...to show him my gratitude and fondness of him...but like what and who shall I ask for advice…?

She smiled as her eyes fell on the two wrapped gifts. She touched the gifts carefully as if she was afraid of breaking them. She read the cards which was attached to each gift, smilingly. She sat down on her bed and opened the first gift. She took a deep breath when she smelled the delicious scent of chocolate emerging from the gift. There was a note inside with Alastair's handwriting, telling her that it was inedible bath bombs. She giggled as she sealed the bag with the bath bombs and put it on the bedside table. Then she opened the second gift. It was a bar of a chocolate. She took a bite and nearly choked of surprise when she clearly heard Alastair's voice in her head:

"I love you. The sweetest dreams to you, fair lady."

Aislinn looked around her in her bedroom, but she was alone. Unless if he is invisible... She wrapped the rest of the chocolate and put it on her bedside table. She then burst out in giggles as she remembered that he told her had an engagement tonight. Well...it was delicious.... delicious in a surprising way...

She laid down in her bed. She did not dare to change her clothes because she had no idea what a half demon could be up to. Or perhaps I should ignore my own shyness and....perhaps he will vanish of his own shyness...but if he has decided to remain invisible in my bedroom to watch me in secret... She could not help but blush deeply at her own thoughts but at last she got up and changed into her black pajamas and brushed her teeth before going back to bed. She was laying in her bed for several hours, daydreaming about Alastair until she fell asleep without being aware of it.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Good...morning..." Luna said, surprised. She had sat up in bed to see Alastair still sitting at the edge of her bed, watching her lovingly.

"Good morning, my lady. " Alastair said softly, running his hand through her hair.

"Did you not sleep the entire night?" Luna asked, concerned.

"No."

He is the only one who says such things...Such things that leave me speechless. What am I to say in return?

"You know that feeling you had last night, whilst staring at the ceilings in the opera house?"

Luna nodded.

"Like you could stare at them for hours, yet it would only feel like moments? That is how I feel when I look at your face. When you're smiling, or laughing, or so peaceful in your sleep..." he sighed. "I never want...to look away."

Luna lowered her gaze, feeling guilty that he could have been sleeping instead.

"Luna." Alastair said kindly.

"Yes?"

"Yesterday...I neglected to inform you that I was very fond of the way you coloured your hair. " he said as he stood up, making for the door.

"...Thank you. ...I was planning to wear it that way on Halloween." Luna said, sitting up.

"You shouldn't only wear it that way on Halloween." Alastair said, turning slightly to give her a sideways glance. “It looks flattering on you in a charming sense.”

Then he turned to face her fully, bowing to her. “I shall see you again later, when you returned. ” Alastair said with a smile that meant he had another surprise for her. “Farewell, my lady.”

“I shall see you later, Alastair.” Luna smiled, and then he left.

Luna locked the door behind her, and prepared herself to meet with Elias.

“Good morning, Elias.” Luna said through her wand crystal, for she didn’t know if Elias was fully dressed and wearing his pendant at the moment. “It is only now that I recognize that neither of us set a time for today’s meeting. Please inform me, so that I will not be late.”

Meanwhile, Alastair stood just outside Aislynn’s bedroom door, certain that she was awake. He knocked twice, gently.

 

[Hikari Chan]

His green emerald started to glow in the morning when Elias just opened his eyes. He sat up in his grand and soft bed - he had apparated home last night for he could not stand to sleep in a small and uncomfortable bed in an office which suddenly would turn cold and chill in the morning. He picked up his wand from the right bedside table and spoke his message:

"Good morning, Luna. I hope you slept well last night." He paused for two full seconds, wondering why they did not agree about a time yesterday. ...perhaps because we both wanted to avoid thinking about the issue...but we have to confront it sooner or later, whether we want it or not...sigh... "…Shall we say at eleven o'clock?" He stretched his hand towards his pocket watch on his right bedside table. ...seven past thirty...a plenty of time until then... "I have already informed my parents last night that you wished to speak with them today...so they are expecting you anytime today...would you like to go out for breakfast at nine?"

Aislinn had just walked out from the bathroom, having washed her face and brushed her teeth, when she heard someone knocking gently on her door. She had not taken any sleep potion last night and therefor she had slept less than usual. She was still in her black silky pajamas but did not care for changing because she seemed to know who would knock at her door at this hour in the morning. ...Who else could it be...?

She opened the door and smiled lovingly towards Alastair.

"Good morning, did you sleep well?" She greeted and embraced him. She loved to hug him, she loved his scent, and she stood there with her arms around him and a dreamy look in her eyes.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Good morning, Luna. I hope you slept well last night...Shall we say at eleven o'clock? I have already informed my parents yesterday night that you wished to speak with them today...so they are expecting you anytime today...would you like to go out for breakfast at nine?"

Luna sighed, thinking. Then, she replied. "Eleven is perfect. As for the breakfast at nine, I would be delighted. Where would you like to meet?" she asked happily.

"Very well; I shall see you there." Luna replied, before putting her wand down.

Alastair returned Aislynn's smile when she opened the door, stretching his arms wide in an embrace.

"Good morning, did you sleep well?" She greeted and embraced him.

"I rested very well, yes. And you?"

"Did you like the surprise in your room last night?" He looked at her very seriously, with a certain caring look in his eyes that said he wanted everything perfect for her. "Is there anything you would change? Please, tell me in detail." Did you like the chocolate soap? Did you feel embarrassed at all at having your closets organized...You did notice that I kept far away from any intimate items of clothing, did you not? Did the mint startle you? He thought with an inward smile as he imagined her tasting it, jumping up in surprise and blushing at the thought that he could have been there. Did you dislike the taste?

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Outside Rose Cafe in the Serpentine Village..." Elias replied before putting his wand away to get up and get himself ready. I did not tell her...The rose cafe...where there are tables for two...where you can sit outdoors in the lovely summer weather...Red roses are growing and climbing at iron fences around the dining area which is located at a cliff top above the village, giving you a view over the village...and the roses climbing down the stone walls...the stair case decorated with climbing roses which takes you to the cafe...I bet she has not seen that part yet...last time we were at that village was after the gala some months ago....I want to give her the best, a lovely memorial surprise...

He showered and put on his best clothes, growing more anxious for each minute which passed by.

"Mhmm..." Aislinn replied, not letting go of her hug.

"Did you like the surprise in your room last night?"

She giggled shyly when she recalled the sweet and lovely bite of chocolate, she had last night. She did not eat the entire chocolate but saved it to have a small bit every night.

"Is there anything you would change? Please, tell me in detail."

"Hmm..." She mumbled happily and giggled. Perhaps allow me to tidy, clean and organize my room next time... She thought for herself but instead she said: "I don't know how to thank you for this...I cannot find words enough..." She whispered. Is it too much if I ask him for rose scented soap? Not now...I will just express my gratitude, whatever he do...I am more than thankful...it is better to mention my preferences in another circumstance…mentioning it now feels so rude as I am not grateful for at least that he gave me a new soap when he actually did not need to give me one.....
"....it was such a lovely surprise..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"You are quite welcome; it was truly nothing at all." Alastair said modestly. But in truth you said nothing...I don't know what I should change for next time! "Would you care to accompany me downstairs to the kitchen? I was just about to make breakfast, but I cannot make up my mind of what to make. Perhaps you could help me decide?" he smiled charmingly. "Is your favorite something I can make?" During breakfast, I'll tell her that I plan to spend time with Luna today.

Luna, who vaguely remembered the Serpentine Village, was looking for a place named the Rose Cafe. After a few minutes, she shook her head at her own foolishness, and used her mirror to show her what the entrance looked like. In time, she reached the entrance, which she thought looked rather charming. "Eight fifty-two..." Luna sighed. "I thought I was late." she said quietly as she stood straight with her back facing the wall, her arms folded behind her. Now how to avoid actually eating... she began planning how the interaction would go.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I would love to..." Aislinn replied, releasing Alastair from her hug. "French toasts dipped in melted chocolate..." She suggested with a laugh.

He saw the first glimpse of her, as soon as Rose Cafe came into his view. The time was precisely eight fifty-nine when he approached her.

"Good morning my lady," Elias smiled, trying to give a happy impression even if he was feeling anxious. He gestured for her to enter first, with a 'Ladies first' look in his eyes. He kept two stair steps in distance when he ascended the stairs behind her.

I have no appetite at all...I have to force myself to eat...

Since it was Sunday and nice summer weather, not too hot because it was still nine o'clock in the morning yet not chill, a pleasant temperature, a lot of witches and wizards were having their breakfasts. Though it was not crowded as it used to be during July and August. Elias nodded towards a vacant table which was located in a corner, surrounded by rock wall on his right side and iron fences with climbing roses in front.

"Shall we sit there?" He asked. There were more vacant seats. "…Or there..." He nodded toward another corner which was only surrounded by iron fences with climbing roses. The rest of the vacant seats were scattered all over the midst of the place. He preferred corner seats because they were so discreet and cozy.

The black tables and chairs were of Victorian style, their design notable for being outdoor furniture. Comfortable cushions were placed on the seats of the chairs to make an enjoyable and pleasant breakfast, tea break or lunch for the customers.

The menu was a thin and tall book, where red roses were climbing magically on the black silky yet not shiny covers of the book. It was only painted climbing roses that was magically enchanted to move at the covers, move and open their buds, rose petals raining down the covers, in a slow and harmonious motion.

There were two menus of this kind, placed on the table.

Elias let Luna to choose her place first, before he took the seat opposite hers and picked up one of the menus, browsing it briefly. Each dish was written in an elegant handwriting on the milky white soft sheets of paper. There were various of meals and drinks for breakfast, tea break and lunch.

A young waitress, who had immediately noticed them when they had entered the dining area, strutted on her black high heels towards their table. She was wearing a short black dress with wide fluffy skirt, white collar and apron and stockings. Her light brown hair was put in two pony tails with black ribbons. A smile was spread across her red lips as she neared their table.

"Good morning..." She spoke, nearly singing, in a soft and happy voice, greeting her customers. "What would you lo-"

"We have not decided yet," Elias interrupted, his eyes in the menu, without looking the slightest at the waitress.

"Oh, please take your time," It was clearly notable that the waitress had become surprised by a sudden interruption by a customer but showed no signs of being offended or hurt. Instead she kept smiling as she walked away, just like the other waitresses who were strutting around to assist their customers.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"French toasts dipped in melted chocolate..." She suggested with a laugh.

"I have had that before...I guessed that your favorite would be something sweet."

He made the breakfast to perfection, plating the slices of toast with one leaned up against the other while laying down; like dominoes which had collapsed against each other in a row. "Here you are..." Alastair smiled, serving her three slices of toast with melted chocolate drizzled in the perfect amount all over them. At the edge of the plate, in elegant handwriting, was Aislynn's name written in melted dark chocolate, so that it stood out from the rest of the milk chocolate. "There is plenty more, so eat as much as you like. " There was also a bit of fresh cream in an elegant swirled shape, like the top of an ice cream cone.

He was about to pick up his fork when his hand retreated quickly, as if he had been burnt, a surprised look in his eyes. "I forgot to offer you something to drink; you dislike milk, and you didn't seem satisfied with the water. " and then his expression softened. "What can I prepare for you?"

"Good morning my lady," Elias smiled.

"A pleasant morning to you as well." Luna said with the slight nod of her head.

"Thank you." she said when he gestured for her to go first.

She wore her black boots and a plain gown:

Her hair was in the same style as the night before, without the white streak. She also wore a choker with a simple black band and a black velvet rose that sat at the right side of her neck, stylishly off-center.

"This one would work much better." Luna said, taking a seat at the corner table. She sat in a way that allowed her to see the entrance of the restaurant and most of the main area through the iron fence. Luna took notice of the intricate menu design, which she soon became fond of. Then she picked up her menu and pretended to read it, planning to turn a page every half-minute. Her eyes wandered to the style of furniture, and the outfits that the maids were wearing. Every time someone entered the restaurant, her eyes flickered to the door. Mostly couples she noticed.

"Good morning..." She spoke, nearly singing, in a soft and happy voice, greeting her customers. "What would you lo-"

"We have not decided yet," Elias interrupted, his eyes in the menu, without looking the slightest at the waitress.

And it is a fact that Elias will never deviate to the point of infidelity...He didn't even look at her. She was being cheerful, not flirting with him. On the contrary, I thought she was cute; like a younger sister cosplaying as a maid from a maid cafe. And then, she turned another page and sighed. I don't think I can do this...You know, it actually would be a terrible waste of money if I don't enjoy it, right? It would be the same as ordering the food and throwing it out the window...So honesty is my best option, I suppose. She put down her menu calmly, and nodded to herself; she had made up her mind. "Elias?" Luna asked, her voice cool and calm, but not to the point of formality. "I must be honest with you-" she sighed "-I have no appetite at all this morning. I merely wanted to spend the morning in your company, thus I did not turn your invitation down. It would be foolish to eat a meal when my stomach is so knotted from anxiety; perhaps you could select a tea you enjoy for both of us?" she asked. Yes; honesty is best...Sometimes. She thought with an inward grin.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Oh..." Aislinn was amazed that her name was written in chocolate in the plate. "Thank you..." She picked a toast and took a bite, chewing it slowly with dreamy look in her eyes.

"I forgot to offer you something to drink" Alastair suddenly said. "you dislike milk, and you didn't seem satisfied with the water. " and then his expression softened. "What can I prepare for you?"

She looked romantically at him, still chewing. When she had finished, she spoke:

"Do you remember when we had our first breakfast together here?"

She took another bite of her toast.

"And you made some lovely croissants...and I almost burned myself by drinking too hot tea I made...." She looked at him as if it was obvious and then laughed heartily at that time when they had eaten breakfast together the first time.

"May you make us some tea, please?" She asked him lovingly. "Water tastes so plain with breakfast, especially if chocolate or anything sweet is involved..." She added with a laugh.

"You as well?" Elias looked a little surprised at Luna and then he smiled softly: "I do not even have any appetite this morning. I would only eat if you wished to eat something. Anyway, I was also thinking about tea, because it has such calming effects. Would you love chamomile tea?"

The same waitress seemed to know that they had decided, because she just neared them and asked in a sweetest tone:

"Is there anything you would love to enjoy for breakfast?"

She kept smiling, not showing any sign that she was surprised that her customers only ordered tea for breakfast. She was about to open her mouth to suggest the plate with fresh strawberries and whipped cream with chocolate toasts, a popular summer breakfast meal among the majority of customers, but she decided against saying anything and kept her mouth closed because she had a feeling that her customers were not in mood for eating.

Two minutes later, the waitress came back with two cups of steaming hot tea, which were placed on a round tray hovered midair in front of her.

"Please enjoy," She smiled as the cups carefully flew of the tray and landed softly and soundlessly in front of Elias and Luna. The teacups were of Victorian style as well, made of white porcelain with red animated roses decorating the external parts of the cups.

"Thanks," Elias replied, his eyes immediately on the bill which flew from the tray and landed on the table in front of him. It was a poor sum because he had only ordered tea. Only four galleons, two for each cup. He picked out his magical quill, feeling it was ridiculous to use it for such a small payment, but he never carried physical money in his pockets because he found it so tedious. He scribbled his signature at the bill, and it flew back to the tray.