Fandom The Gathering of Death Eater Children

[Junko Natsumizaka]

29th July, Sunday

Alastair and Luna sat beside each other on a bench outside the manor, waiting for Lily and Elias. The carriage was parked nearby, and Raven, who was waiting to fly it, was sitting on a less noticeable bench nearby.

Alastair and Luna were chatting lightly, dressed in elegant formal attires, when Lily and Elias arrived.

"Good day." Alastair and Luna greeted in turn, each shaking hands with Elias and Lily.

"Shall we?" Alastair said, gesturing to the carriage after everyone had exchanged greetings.

Alastair helped Luna inside the carriage, obviously expecting Elias to do the same for Lily. Once inside, Luna expected that Lily would want to explore the carriage's interior, so she had decided to give Lily a tour of it herself.

"Lily," Luna asked once the carriage door had been closed "may I show you around? The interior is lovely; don't hold back if you want to touch anything." she smiled.

 

[Hikari Chan]

...why must I endure another silly film today...not that I mind being with Lily, but Alastair could have given her the address to that theater, and she could have gone with her friends instead. Was it hers or Alastair's idea to go the theater?... Elias thought while Lily exchanged her greetings with Luna and Alastair.

Anyone who saw Lily and did not know her himdere side, would think that she was a lovely young girl with manners from a noble family. The way she dressed, the way she walked and the she sat by the dinner table or on a couch. Today she was dressed in a light blue dress, with long poet sleeves and skirt that reached below her knees. The neckline was moderate, and she was wearing a small pearl necklace and small pearl earrings. A small golden watch decorated her left hand-wrist. Her hair was done in the same style when she had met Alastair and Luna for tea at her place, however this time she had a blue ribbon decorating her hair to match her dress. She was wearing a pair of elegant white sandals with small heels and a white clutch.

Elias was dressed formally yet elegantly as usual, his hair being tied with a black silky ribbon, knowing that Luna fancied him in that way.

Lily reached out her hand to Elias, expecting him to help her inside the carriage after she had seen how Alastair had helped Luna inside. ...what's the matter with her...being so impatient today...I did not even take any step forward yet...it is not like that I will leave her behind...of course father has always been the one helping her and mother inside a carriage whenever we travelled together, hence she is expecting me to do the same...

"Lily," Luna asked once the carriage door had been closed "may I show you around? The interior is lovely; don't hold back if you want to touch anything." she smiled.

"Yes, please," Lily smiled happily. She loved to be shown around at any new place she visited.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Very well, let's start with the bedrooms..." Luna began their tour as Alastair moved the coffee table in the center of the main area, and opened the floor window so that he could enjoy the view of the scenery during their flight. He had levitated it 'using his wand'.

He didn't speak to Elias, and didn't seem to take notice of him while he enjoyed the view. They was in the air by now, and the view was splendid, in Alastair's opinion.

"...and these paintings are all Professor Raven's work. In fact, she built this carriage herself using her magic." Luna praised as Lily admired the paintings; they were back in the main area now. "...She is also the one flying this carriage; she's so talented." Without her assistance, I don't know what would have happened. I owe my success to her, and thus, I am so grateful.

Luna then explained that they coffee table that had been in the center of the room before could move so that the window could open, mentioning that that was Alastair's favorite feature of the carriage.

After they had finished the tour, and had taken their seats, Alastair turned to Lily. "Did you select that gown because the colour is similar to Cinderella's?"

Luna was trying not to stare too much at Elias's handsome appearance. And he's wearing his hair like that again!

By the time Lily had finished answering him, they had landed on a rooftop near the Old Times Hotel where the theatre was located. Raven opened the door for them, and Alastair and Luna admired the view for a few moments before linking arms.

"We will apparate to the alley between this building and the next so that it appears discreet." Alastair informed Lily and Elias "Please do the same." And they disappeared in a puff of black smoke, appearing in the alley.

Once Lily and Elias had done the same, Luna and Alastair led the way across the street to the hotel.

They stopped in front of the grand entrance, made of beige polished marble, so perfect it was like the entrance to a palace, only much smaller in size.

A large illuminated sign hung just above the entrance, the theatre's name written in old-fashioned writing:



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

They walked up the ten shallow steps to the entrance, where a man in a black and white tuxedo stood beside a black velvet rope that blocked the entrance.

"Good evening. " the man said politely, "Welcome back, monsieur and mademoiselle DiVilliers." he said elegantly. He was an older man with grey hair and a kind face, and a slight French accent.

"Good evening, Sir. " Alastair returned the greeting gracefully as the man untied the rope and held it back so that they could pass. The man had assumed that Luna shared his last name; he man knew that they were siblings, but nothing else. Hence, Alastair hoped that Elias and Lily would see why he didn't bother correcting the man.

"Please do not speak with the manager here...He is an undoubtedly loquacious man who only speaks of uninteresting things." Alastair informed Elias once they were inside, warning him of the man who was making his way toward them.

"It all starts jovially." Alastair said under his breath as the manager seemed to put on such a happy front.

"My my, the DiVilliers! How long it has been! Good day, good day!" the man exclaimed, as if they hadn't seen each other in years.

"Good evening, Sir Marshall. " Alastair replied elegantly, using a very formal voice with cold undertones. He didn't take the hand that Mr. Marshall extended to him, and Luna did the same. However, the man seemed not to mind, as if he was used to this.

"Allow me to introduce two close friends of mine," Alastair gestured to Elias and Lily "Ms. and Mr. Shadowwalker. They are simply marvelous people, and I know that you, of all people, know how to treat them." Alastair said, hinting that they were the same type of 'customer' that he and his sister were; the type that will come back again and again if you give them a good discount. "Mr. and Ms. Shadowwalker, this is Sir Marshall, the manager here."

The manager, who hadn't seemed to notice Lily and Elias before, now beheld them as if they were royalty. "What a charming young lady and gentleman!" Sir Marshall exclaimed, offering his hand to shake with first Elias, then Lily. "Dressed so elegantly-" he praised them both ",and acting just as elegantly at such a young age." that comment seemed to be directed at Lily in particular.

"My apologies Sir Marshall, but I have promised my good friends a film today, and they are very busy people." Alastair said in mock apology.

"What could be so important?" Sir Marshall asked, having been excited to begin a conversation, but now seemed as if he was worried his hopes might be crushed.

"They do have ever so important careers." Alastair said in a 'It is unavoidable; we must hurry and begin now' way, although he had creatively disguised it all as a joke. "This esteemed man works at the Ministry of Magic in London; I nearly had to beg him to take a break off of his work to watch this film. He agreed on the condition that we would be back in London by tonight, and as you know, carriage rides seem to take longer and longer these days..." Alastair sighed jokingly, as if the trip here had tired them all out. "But look how well they hide their discomfort; truly exceptional, don't you agree?"

"Of course!" the man clapped his hands together once before turning away to lead them through the grand room. He obviously wanted to know what Lily's 'career' was, but took Alastair's words for the truth. "The finest room in the house for my good friends! Straight away, yes yes! Apologies for the delay!"

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

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

"Is 'Beauty and the Beast' playing tonight?" Alastair asked.

"....Yes, it is." he replied after hesitation, giving Alastair a strange look, as if he was questioning if he truly wanted to watch that film. When Alastair didn't reply to Mr. Marshall's strange look, he gave Elias the same look, although after a moment he returned his attention to Alastair, seeming to believe that perhaps the females in their group had convinced the males to endure it.

"Well, would it be possible to acquire four tickets for Beauty and the Beast, and dine at the restaurant afterwards?" Alastair asked with a certain look in his eyes.

"Of course, of course, of course, Monsieur DiVilliers." the man nodded seriously, nodding his head every two words. He opened his dinner jacket, and retrieved two bronze tickets from an inside pocket to hand to Alastair. The way he did it with such a mischievous and secretive countenance...one would have thought that he was handing Alastair the keys to the world's most valuable weapon so that they could take over the world.

"Thank you for your time, good Sir." Alastair took the tickets gratefully, handing one to each person in the group.

"You are welcome. Do enjoy your night." the man said as he walked away, speaking with an important tone and a hushed voice. He walked with the air of someone who didn't want to leave; he regarded everyone in the group to be interesting, and deeply wished to know them better. A cup of tea and hours of conversation, if not with all of them, then at least with the males. A businessman and a ministry official? What a conversation that would be! He thought longingly.

"Shall we?" Alastair offered Luna his arm, and they walked through the archway, which led into a nicely-lit hallway, also made of marble.

"I do hope that everyone enjoys the film." Alastair said to everyone. In his voice, it was evident that he was equally glad for the man's help, and annoyed by his mannerisms.

They entered the theatre room, which was comprised of five rows of seven chairs, all of which were very comfortable and plush. Alastair handed out the tickets so that the order was as follows, with all of them in the same row, starting from the right to the left: Alastair, Luna, Elias, Lily.

A mother with two younger children was in the second row; she was distributing some candy between them to enjoy during the film, and reminding them to remain quiet so as not to disturb the other viewers. When they entered, she gazed in surprise at the handsome gentlemen, not having expected such good-looking men to be viewing this film. However, she returned her attention to her children the moment she caught sight of the females, as if reminding herself of her own responsibilities.

Once they had taken their seats, Alastair took hold of Luna's hand with a joking grin. Luna smiled, and laughed softly. The last time he did this was during a so-called 'horror film'...That's what the Muggles called it. I laughed throughout each 'scary' scene in the film, because the deaths were more laughable than frightening. It was because the people dying were so foolish to fall for the 'antagonist's' traps that I couldn't care less about them. He remembers as well; the thought of this film being frightening in any way is quite comical.

Alastair was turned toward Luna, so it surprised him when he felt someone else sit in the once vacant chair next to him, and hold his other hand. "It will be dark, and the film might be scary, so I'll hold your other hand." a man said quietly.

Alastair turned his head quickly, preparing to request a different set of seats, only to see Nova grinning at him.

'What are you doing here?' Alastair's expression asked.

'Enjoying the show' Nova's expression replied. He didn't mean the film; he meant Alastair, Elias, and Luna suffering through Beauty and the Beast.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Lily followed Luna, feeling very excited around in the carriage and could not resist her fingers from touching the walls and the furniture. The only thing she did not dare to touch was the paintings because they were made by professor Raven, who for Lily was still a mysterious person since she did not meet her for any last classes she had before graduation.

Meanwhile, Elias was waiting in the main room of the carriage. He remained standing, looking out from one of the windows, not even paying attention to Alastair. He did not even take a seat until his sister had returned from the short tour around in the carriage with Luna.

"Did you select that gown because the color is similar to Cinderella's?" Alastair turned to Lily., after they had taken their seats.

Elias tried not to grimace and keep a calm expression on his face. ...Merlin's beard...why did he ask her that question? ...now she is just going to babble about Cinderella...

"Ah!" Lily burst out. "I actually did not. I chose this dress on the whim. So, you really think that I look like Cinderella?" Lily was so happy at the thought that she blushed and continued in a haughty and proud tone as if she was literary boasting about herself though rather indirectly: "I feel so flattered, really! You are not the first person who has commented that I look like a princess from a film. I knew I had it in me, since I dressed up as a Belle on the summer feast and everyone recognized me as Belle..." Here Lily looked sideways as Elias while she pronounced the word 'everyone' with such a haughty tone, as if she was trying to tell Elias how wrong he had been about her on the summer feast.
"Now I am going to dress up as Cinderella with such a confidence at the winter ball!" She announced with such a proud tone.

By the time Lily had finished, they had landed on a rooftop.

"We will apparate to the alley between this building and the next so that it appears discreet." Alastair informed Lily and Elias "Please do the same." And they disappeared in a puff of black smoke, appearing in the alley.

During the few seconds they were alone, Elias looked at his sister as if he wanted to speak about something but remained quiet.

"Is there anything you want to say?" It seemed as if Lily has read his thoughts.

"No....but promise me one thing..."

"Yeah?"

"Keep your fingers away from anything inside the theater. No touching, is that understood?"

"What?"

"It is not a bloody clothing store we are going to, it is a theater-"

"Huh?"

"If you promise me that, I will promise you to not try to sleep during the film in return. Let's go.." He grabbed her hand and apparated to the place where Luna and Alastair had gone to.

…What's the matter with Elias, being on such a bad mood this morning...yet he looks so calm... Lily thought annoyed. ...and why is the manager so eager to chat with all his guests? He looks so boring, yet this place looks so posh...

Lily noticed that Luna and Alastair did not shake hands with the manager, so she also ignored his hand. ...the manager does not seem bothered about it...it is if at he is used about reaching out his hand but not getting any response in a handshake....as if it is alright to ignore his hand...I cannot but wonder why? Perhaps he is...what if he does something weird with my hand...uh oh...I cannot risk a handshake with him, so I better ignore it...to be on the safe side...huh? Are we going to watch Beauty and the Beast? But I want to choose another princess film...ah Alastair must be cheeky...but he got us dinner in the restaurant here, I hope it is a really good restaurant with post three dishes meal and dessert, or I will be disappointed...anyway, Elias will get a chance to see Beauty and the Beast and hopefully he will understand why I was dressed as Belle....

"I do hope that everyone enjoys the film." Alastair said to everyone. In his voice, it was evident that he was equally glad for the man's help and annoyed by his mannerisms.

"Thank you!" Lily replied.

...I hope these chairs here are comfortable, more comfortable than in the muggle theater I have been into...

Lily sat down on her seat, making herself comfortable and preparing herself for the movie that was about to start very soon.

Elias braced himself. He remembered the last time how Lily had poked him almost every minute during Cinderella, because he had been closing his eyes and she had looked at him from time to time to see that he was following the story with her. ...Now I have to keep my eyes open during the entire bloody film...

...well, what an interesting start...so is this film portraying a muggle prince who is getting bewitched by a witch? Oh well he deserves it, a muggle like him, for being so haughty and not giving any shelter for the witch in his castle...Elias looked sideways at Lily, seeing how she was looking at the prince with such affection and pity. ...Merlin's beard... He sighed quietly and wondered how long this film would take. ...I am already feeling bored...and it is only the beginning... He thought as Belle was introduced in the next scene of the film.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Nova watched the faces of everyone in his row, having more fun than Lily. He struggled to contain his laughter at Alastair's forced look of interest in the film, and in sharp contrast, Elias's overt boredom. Lily was clearly enamored with the film, and Luna was succeeding in noticing positive details about the film instead of the negative aspects.

By the time the end credits were rolling, Nova had left the theatre unnoticed by anyone except Alastair.

I held Alastair's hand during some of the darker parts...It was the most difficult to hold my laughter in then, when Alastair was putting in an equally great effort not to laugh. If he had laughed during those serious parts, it would have appeared that he wasn't taking the film seriously, and thus, Lily would have doubted his interest in it. Ah, what a fun time... Nova thought as he made his way to the discreet corner table of the restaurant where Alastair's group would be eating. He was openly singing 'Tale as Old as Time', and receiving strange looks from passers-by, which only amused him more. He was looking forward to the next show; the discussion afterward about how lovely the film was. "...Beauty and the Beast..." he finished when he reached his table.

"So, Ms. Shadowwalker-" Alastair asked once the lights had come back on in the theatre "-did you enjoy the film today as much as the first time?" His soft smile suggested that he enjoyed it as much as Lily had. Luna had a similar smile, relieved that it hadn't been as insufferable as she originally assumed. Alastair was relieved that they could now move on with their day.

Nova was almost finished studying the menu by the time Alastair's group had taken their seats.

 

[Hikari Chan]

She hesitated for a moment, her hand raised, ready to knock on the door as million thoughts rushed through her head.
..I could have ignored the invite, just tossing away the card in my fireplace…but if that person who has invited me expects to see me and literary come to my office if I do not appear at the meeting place tomorrow…no, it is better to meet up with this particular person and clear this confusion. But can I trust Alexis? Vincent will not be back before the end of August and I have no one to trust. I wish it had been easier to speak with his cousin. She scares me, and she is so difficult to approach. I could literary try to approach an annoyed cat…sigh...But I do have Faeryn and Endewyne, don’t I? They seem that they care a lot about me, especially Faeryn who is worried that Vincent may hurt me. If she only tried to learn more about him, she would not be that overprotective. Since I can trust Faeryn and Endewyne, then why I am here in front of the door to Alexis’ office? Of course, I want to test him, to see if he truly cares about me or not...

Adela knocked softly on the door to Alexis’ office. She knew what she wanted to tell him. She had gone through it mentally in the morning before she decided to talk to him this afternoon. But the moment he opened the door, visibly surprised by her sight, she became speechless. It was as if time had stopped and she had forgotten what to say. She looked up at him, meeting his eyes calmly yet she was feeling impotent to speak. They had not talked since the last time when she had scolded him for being so curious about what she had been up to that day when he had discovered her looking so messy and walking out from the hut.

Alexis looked surprised at his sister, since he had not been expecting her at all. …she must be here to talk about the other day… His thoughts went to the last time they had spoken. He stepped aside and held out the door open for her. ..I don’t know what got into her to come to my office, she looks so calm today, but I must be careful not to anger her or make her leave….sigh, I wish I knew her better…perhaps this will be my chance to know her more…I must be careful not to waste this precious time away, now when I got the opportunity…

“Come in..”

“Of course!” Lily exclaimed happily. “Now you understand why I wore yellow on the summer feast!” She turned towards Elias for a brief second, almost looking at him tensely.

“Well…” He replied with a smile. “It was an interesting story indeed.” He was humoring her, which she did not notice and instead believed that he finally had understood her reasons for wearing yellow on a ball.

She turned her attention towards Alastair and began to discuss the content of the story of Beauty and the Beast with such passion as if she was replaying every scene in her mind. As usual, she was speaking a lot, taking up the entire conversation without giving him or anyone else the chance to comment with something.

“...so I was hoping to find my enchanted prince at the summer feast, however I was unlucky, so I am going to try with something else at the winter ball...” She finished as soon as they reached their table in the restaurant and took their seats. She sat down with Elias beside her and Luna in front of her and picked up the menu.

Lily seemed to study the menu for a couple of minutes, as if she was standing in front of her closet trying to decide what to wear for today, until she picked her choices.

“I would like creamy mushroom soup, steak with fries, cheese in choux pastry, tomato salad and chocolate mousse…and hmm…Elias, they don’t have cola or Fanta?”

“Just pick water, it will go nice with the choice of yours...” Elias replied, trying to refrain from teasing his sister. The right edge of his mouth was twisting in a weird smirk, as if was on his edge to say something to her but kept it for himself. To avoid teasing her, he immediately placed his order.

“I will have the mushroom soup, poached fish with roasted potatoes, tomato salad, creme brule and water as well...”

..Only this time I shall avoid wine…it might dull my senses to the extent that I forget that I should not tease Lily because of her choices….and I cannot afford to ruin her day during this circumstance…

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Of course, Alastair listened to Lily's monologue about Beauty and the Beast with an expression that explained he felt both interested in what she was saying, and agreed with her words.

"I wish you luck on finding your prince." Alastair smiled genuinely when she explained about finding her prince.

"What lovely choices." Alastair complimented both Elias and Lily after they had ordered. He turned to Luna "Now dearest, allow me to guess what you've chosen?" he addressed Luna, who nodded, giving him permission to play this little game. "Hmm...tomato basil soup, grilled fish with assorted vegetables, Greek salad without the Kalamata olives, and no dessert, because you want a tall lemon-mint drink...is that right?"

Luna nodded with a smile. "Once again, you have guessed correctly." the praised. He remembered my order from last time...He really pays attention to details...

Alastair proceeded to order the same thing, although he specified that Luna preferred her lemonade to be more sour than sweet, and that he liked his more sweet than sour."

After the waitress had walked away, Alastair turned his attention to Lily. "I assume that you enjoyed the first two princess films that you watched so highly that you would want to watch more, correct?" he smiled a genuine-looking smile. "So, you will be taking your friends here to watch the rest?"

"As long as you are kind to the manager, you only have to insist that you have 'somewhere important to be' and that you only have enough time to watch the film, enjoy a dinner or lunch-" he gestured to their table "-and return to your carriage to get to that 'important thing'. He isn't so nosy as to ask what that is, so you don't have to go into detail. Those brief conversations are well worth the discount, I assure you. Now, do you have any idea what film you would like to see next?" He awaited her reply with the look in his eyes that said he could listen forever without getting bored.

"Well, I have composed a list of all of them for you-" he retrieved a parchment scroll from the inside of his coat and handed it to Lily "-listing the name, plot, and year of the film, as well as an illustration of the film's princess. Although, I must tell you that the illustrations were not mine, but a friend's...." The illustrations were lovely and detailed, the plots were concise, with every word written in Alastair's elegant handwriting. "...So, I hope that this helps you enjoy them all. I would like to add that, if there is ever a time when you don't wish to go with your friends, or if your brother is too busy with his work, then I would be honored to accompany you here and enjoy the film that you choose." he smiled genuinely, putting a hand to his chest as if he would truly be honored. Elias can just tell her that he is busy with his Ministry work, and I can sit through all of the films until Lily has finished them. I wouldn't want to trouble Elias with it, or Luna. And, it's not like she won't do her own research about the films eventually; I really didn't do anything special with this list.

Nova could barely contain his laughter, and put a hand to his mouth to remind himself to keep quiet, even though he couldn't help smirking and laughing through his nose a bit. How much does he want to get on Lily's good side? Hasn't he already? And that's what he was asking Malice for the other day...she hated all of those films and yet she still made those stunning illustrations since she said that she would 'do anything for him'...But why would Alastair put so much effort into that when he has already achieved his goal? And the reactions of the others in his group will be so priceless, ah, I can't wait! I wonder if Elias would scorn Alastair the moment they were alone? Or would that be one of Luna's actions?

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Please sit..." Alexis gestured towards one of the chairs in front of his desk. His office was small, filled with book shelves. There was no window and the bedroom were even smaller. "Would you like pumpkin juice-?" He began but did not gave Adela a chance to answer: "-or shall we get some nice dinner in Hogsmeade, it is so small in my office..." He seemed flustered, because he had never expected her to pay a visit to him at his office, especially after the last time they had spoken to each other and it had not ended that well.

"It is fine-"

"No, really, I should treat you with a nice dinner.." He grabbed her hand and lead her outside his office and proceeded to walk towards the end of the corridor. He was walking so fast.

Adela had no time to protest and nearly ran in order to keep up with his fast pace. A second ago she had been in his office and the next second she was out of his office, not even getting the chance to sit down for a bit and suddenly she was outside the castle within the matters of seconds.

Lily was slightly surprised that Alastair could guess what Luna would have for dinner and decided to test Elias next time whenever they decided to have dinner out. She did not know that both Alastair and Luna had been to this place before and that Alastair was good on memorizing things. She thought he had guessed out of the blue.

After the waitress had walked away, Alastair turned his attention to Lily. "I assume that you enjoyed the first two princess films that you watched so highly that you would want to watch more, correct?" he smiled a genuine-looking smile. "So, you will be taking your friends here to watch the rest?"

"Of course I will come here with my friends," Lily replied, already feeling excited about taking Clarissa and Pegah with her here. She was wondering if the twins would be interested to join them as well.
...and that girl who I met on the summer feast, who could not even dance, if she had not turned down my request when I asked her to come over to the table where I was with my friends, I would have been thinking about inviting her. Anyway, it is her loss..

"As long as you are kind to the manager, you only have to insist that you have 'somewhere important to be' and that you only have enough time to watch the film, enjoy a dinner or lunch-" he gestured to their table "-and return to your carriage to get to that 'important thing'. He isn't so nosy as to ask what that is, so you don't have to go into detail. Those brief conversations are well worth the discount, I assure you. Now, do you have any idea what film you would like to see next?"

"Ah, do not worry about that..." She already knew how to deal with annoying students at Hogwarts, so dealing with a to talkative manager was nothing at all. "No, I have not decided yet. I guess I will just come here and see what is available...or what I could possible choose.."

"Well, I have composed a list of all of them for you-" he retrieved a parchment scroll from the inside of his coat and handed it to Lily "-listing the name, plot, and year of the film, as well as an illustration of the film's princess. Although, I must tell you that the illustrations were not mine, but a friend's...."

"Oh..." She was visibly surprised and had not been expecting it at all. "Tell me, is this your birthday gift to me or what?" She laughed.

Elias was using all his might to remain calm and silent. There was look in his eyes that looked so dangerous. ...Merlin's beard...why did he even...what if she starts begging me to watch every silly film on this list with her....

"...So, I hope that this helps you enjoy them all. I would like to add that, if there is ever a time when you don't wish to go with your friends, or if your brother is too busy with his work, then I would be honored to accompany you here and enjoy the film that you choose." Alastair smiled genuinely, putting a hand to his chest as if he would truly be honored.

To this, Elias raised an eyebrow. ...He is already dating a lady I assume, and he suggest to Lily that he would join her at any film... He tried to recall the lady who he had seen with Alastair at the summer feast. ...She looked so familiar...I have seen her somewhere...it annoys me that I cannot remember who she is or where I have seen her before...anyway, is Alastair trying to get a date with Lily or is he treating her like a child?...She is actually eighteen years old...

"Ah, my friends are like my family," Lily began. "I literary grew up with them, spending most of my time with them at Hogwarts that I spent at home with my family. I will always ask them if they desire to join me for any leisure. So, there's not such a thing that I would not desire their company." There was a haughty tone in her voice. "…And, the only men I have for company whenever I go out, is either my father or my brother," She pronounced 'father' and 'brother' with such pride, as if they were the only important men in her life. "I only have female friends and I never go out with another man alone. You must ask my father for his consent if you desire to go out with me." She finished, haughtier than ever. The way she spoke and sat at the table, coming from a noble family, gave the vibes that she had very high standards and suggested that she was not easy to deal with and that she would cause difficulties for the suitors who tried to approach her.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Of course." Alastair replied humbly, in a way that stated he fully understood. "I only meant that I would be honored to be considered a 'friend' in your eyes, since, if my sister marries your brother, you would be my sister-in-law, and I, your brother-in-law. I only wanted to know you better...And it would be lovely to have another sister." he added quietly, looking away with a disappointed look in his eyes. The look explained that he was disappointed that Lily had misunderstood.

Tch...What a disgusting attitude to take when the king was being so nice, and putting so much effort in for a self-centered human like you. Nova thought. She has no idea that Alastair's position in demonic society is higher than hers will ever be. Rosaleya was smart to distance herself from Lily at the Summer Feast...And hopefully, when she attends Hogwarts, she will be careful to distance herself from anyone like this girl...Or if Lily tries to approach Rosaleya again...

The food was served a moment later.

I'm not sure...Could Alastair have said it any differently, or is Lily overreacting? Luna tried to decide, re-playing the conversation in her mind.

Nova signaled for one of the waiters. "Yes yes, I have finally decided now...I will take..." he studied the dessert menu "...the dessert that you recommend. Tell me, which dessert do you enjoy the most?"

"...I enjoy this parfait." the waiter pointed to the item on the menu. "...although it is the least popular item on this menu."

"I'll take it, and if it is not to my taste, then I will have you beheaded." Nova ordered like a prideful king, to which the waiter smiled and nodded before walking away with Nova's menu.

What an eccentric man. The manager thought about Nova. He seems to be the liveliest one here...I wonder what a conversation with him would be like. I wonder if he likes to go fishing like I do? Would he be interested in that lake where I always catch something on the holidays? Last time I went, it was... and he began reminiscing. He was still doing so as Nova was served the parfait.

"Ah, thank you." Nova glared at the waiter in a pretentious yet joking manner. "Tell me, were you growing the fruits and whipping the cream yourself? You took soooooooo long." he sighed, picking up the spoon and tasting it.

This earned another laugh from the man. "Do you like it, Sir?"

Nova became serious again and thanked the waiter for his recommendation.

"Sir who prefers to watch me in a corner-" Nova turned and addressed the manager, who had been watching Nova with interest for a few minutes now. "Please, sit down." Nova gestured to the seat across from him.

"Sir, I wasn't-" Mr. Marshall tried to deny it.

"Please-" Nova insisted. "-I want to know what you were thinking about this whole time. Come on, sit down."

Marshall, who seemed overjoyed that he might finally have someone else to go fishing with at the lake, or just to talk with at length, sat down and told Nova in great detail about all of the summers that he had spent fishing there. He was an unmarried man, and he loved going fishing with his brother, who worked as a waiter at this restaurant, and his sister would come along as well, making delicious food for them to eat. It was a half-fishing trip, and half-picnic day; it had been his sister's idea to do them both at the same time.

"That sounds lovely." Nova smiled when he had finished. "I admire an earnest and hardworking young man such as yourself." he praised genuinely.

"Do not flatter me, Sir...I am...I am no longer 'young'."

"The word 'young' isn't used in my experience to refer to your age, but rather your soul." Nova quoted Asmodeus. "Your soul is still full of youth and happiness, unlike most men your age. Now tell me; this summer isn't over yet...Is there a spot available on your boat for another fisherman?"

"Y...You fish? Of course there is!" the man was delighted. "But Sir, we have talked all of this time, and...You know my name, but I do not know yours."

"My name is Nova." he replied elegantly. "So, what day shall we go fishing?"

They set a date, and Mr. Marshall seemed to be so overexcited that, if time turners had been within his reach, he would have put his heart and soul into making it fast-forward time so that they could go that very instant.

 

[Hikari Chan]

The Three Broomsticks did not have so many customers during the summer since most were on holidays or spent their time outdoors in the sun and warmth. So, it was less crowded than usual, and Alexis could choose among so many tables and went for his favorite place.

...ugh...why did he just take this table.... Adela thought with a frown.

He had picked a table for four almost in the middle of the inn where he could rest his back against a large wooden pillar, while she had to sit in front of him, with her back against half of the inn.

"I am just going to have one plate of one dish and a pumpkin juice, okay? So, you don't need to order the entire menu..." She said, but then realized she must have said something wrong because his cheerful face has suddenly changed into a disappointed one. ...ugh...why is he being like that...
"Look," She hurried to speak before he had time to say anything. "I know you want to spoil me; I appreciate it..." …I actually wish he did not... "...But I don't want to gain weight..." She laughed and tried to make out a light joke of it. She was surprised that she had managed, because he was laughing as well.

"So, shall I just order this main one, beef steak with chips and fresh vegetables, for both of us?" He asked, seemingly hopefully that she would enjoy the same dish as him.

"Yeah, that's a lovely choice..." She forced a smile, not wanting to disappoint him.

"Of course, we will become brothers and sisters," Lily rolled her eyes.

...Why does he look so disappointed? Merlin, he seems to be so sensitive...He should have been clearer with me, but he can blame himself for being so forward. We won't become brothers and sisters until after the marriage...it is not likely that it will happen soon, because Elias has not mentioned any date or even started to send out invites, so why did Alastair all of sudden become so clingy now and proposed to be the only company whenever I desired to come here? He needs to think before he speaks, duh...

Elias remained quiet, only observing and not commenting anything at all. ...He could have been clearer with her....and she...she should not jump so quickly to conclusions without reconsider....

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Thank you, Ms. Shadowwalker." Alastair replied cheerfully. He spoke as if Lily had said it kindly instead of rolling her eyes. He seemed to have forgotten their previous misunderstanding, and was now happily enjoying his meal.

He overdid it a bit...But he swept it under the rug quickly...I think that both of them were wrong. Alastair should have been a bit more clear; I understood what he meant, but Lily doesn't know him like I do...And Lily should have obtained clarification before acting like she did...But it's strange to me that every time Lily does something that I think is strange... she looked at Elias for a second before continuing to eat her meal ...Elias remains silent...It doesn't matter; it's fine now.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Oh..." Alexis put down his fork and knife and reached out for the card.

..What should I say...? I need to explain this.. Adela thought furiously.

"I did not know you admired me..." He smirked, looking up at her after he had examined the card and its message.

"Well....it is not that..." ...Merlin's beard...how should I put this…Can't he see that it isn't my handwriting...

"So why are you showing me this?" He waved with card in front of her. "You thought I sent it to you?"

"No...I..." ...Merlin! Is he dense or is he toying with me…?

"Ah, I wish I was the one who sent you this...Why did not the idea of an amusement park cross my mind...?" He was talking more to himself now. ...I wonder how Elias manage to have his sister cling to him...I have never seen them fight, only her running up to him and hugging him whenever she saw him in the corridors and halls....He must have charmed his sister in one way or other...perhaps he takes her out to amusement parks?...I should definitely take out Adela as well...

"Well, want to go with me?" She blurted, unsure of how to explain for her brother why she wanted him to come with her to an amusement park.

"Ah, so was it all about to invite me? But you did not write this, did you?"

"Well, someone sent this to me with an owl and I have no idea who it is." It is seeming that he is getting the hint now....

"Ah...So Vincent did not send it-?”

"Of course not, this is not his handwriting, besides he writes with blood and send his letters with bats."

"Alright, alright..." Alexis nodded seriously, not caring of telling Adela to keep her voice down or if other few guests at the inn looked at them.

"Well, you do not mind if I asked Faeryn and Endewyne to tag along?"

"Why?" He almost looked like a disaster and as if his face was saying 'I thought it was only going to be you and me'.

"The more the merrier. It would be more fun, trust me." ...I have never been to an amusement park, so I don't know what it will be like…but I want to get on the good side with Faeryn and Endewyne... "Just this time, please. Then we can go on a date you and me, the only two of us, the next day, okay?" Adela spoke without thinking and suddenly she realized what she had said. But it was to late to take back her words.

"Alright!" Alexis shone up like the brightest star on the sky.

...Merlin's beard...oh well, it cannot be helped, can't it? Sometimes I have to sacrifice a little to gain something in return...

"I cannot thank you all for joining me today. It was such a lovely time!" Lily was the first one to speak as soon as they arrived back to Luna's manor. She spoke in air of as if she had totally forgot the small misunderstanding that had happened between her and Alastair at the dinner table.

She reached out her hand, first shaking hands with Luna and then with Alastair.

"I wish you a pleasant evening..."

While Lily shook hands with Luna, Elias shook hands with Alastair and so they switched.

He held Luna's hand a bit longer in between his and smiled.

He was feeling relieved that the day was finally over, however something was bugging him.

...I still don't get it why Lily turned down Alastair, not matter what his intention was. It is not that mother, or father has ever forbidden Lily to go out with someone. Never has father ever required Lily to ask him for his consent. But perhaps I must have missed something? It is not like that I have been home every day. I wonder what it can be...

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

30th July, Monday

Dante and Celeste were playing on a pair of swings, talking as they swung back and forth.

"...so I'm still not sure about him."

Dante remained silent. I will only give her my opinion when she asks for it...And that should be any second now...

"...What do you think of him?" Celeste asked.

"Are you truly prepared for my answer?" Dante confirmed, the edges of his mouth curling upward in the beginning stages of a smirk.

"Yes." Celeste said firmly.

"...I've said it before, and I will say it again. All humans are the same." Dante smirked. "That is, and will always be, my answer."

"I know..." Celeste sighed quietly "...but some part of my mind still has hope. I have to confirm it over and over again until that hope is gone....I have to confirm that all humans are fools."

"And I will be by your side until you have learned that lesson....and forever afterward." Dante smiled lovingly.

"Yes-" Celeste said cheerfully "-and then I will confirm that there isn't a demon that can be my 'prince'. "

"...'Prince'? You never called it that before." Dante said with a questioning glance.

"Rosaleya did. She shares my quest to find the perfect one."

"Ah...that girl..." Dante recalled the few interactions that he had had with her, which weren't very notable, mainly because they had told him nothing about her personality. "...Did she tell you that?"

"No, Diana did."

"Oh, so she told Diana? I wonder why..."

"No, Diana only knows because he told her."

"Diana was having tea with him again?" Dante's face expressed all of the disgust that he felt. "I don't know why she even bothers interacting with him."

"Reign has tea with him, too." Celeste tried to defend him. "And I've spoken to him before...I know it sounds naive, but I don't think that he's a bad person."

Dante's swing stopped at once, as if he hadn't been swinging it a half-second earlier. "If Asmodeus says that he is a disgusting and untrustworthy person, then he is. Asmodeus's words are factual." he said firmly.

Celeste stopped her swing in the same sudden manner, and replied "It's time for my meeting with Master." cheerfully as if she had already forgotten their conversation.

They both stood up, and made their way to his manor. Dante disregarded the end of their conversation, choosing to think about their scheduled meeting with Asmodeus.

Thirty minutes later, they had reached Asmodeus's manor, reviewed their plans, and indulged in aromatic tea served by Malice.

"Everything is in place for the seventh day." Asmodeus concluded, replacing his empty teacup in its saucer. Almost immediately, Malice stood and pointed to it in a way that offered, without speaking, to pour Asmodeus another cup of tea, to which he politely declined with a gesture of his hand, and Malice took her place again by Asmodeus's side, resting her head on his chest. "I would like you to confirm that you wish to proceed with these plans." Asmodeus said seriously. He surveyed Celeste's face for any doubts or second thoughts. Dante did the same.

"Yes." Celeste replied without any doubt or hesitation in her voice.

"I wish you luck on her sixth date." he replied genuinely, seemingly satisfied with her answer.

"Thank you." Celeste and Dante stood at the same time. The former curtsied elegantly and the latter bowed respectfully before taking their leave.

"Can I watch?" Malice asked once they had left. She hadn't moved from her place, yet, wishing to stay there a while longer.

"Certainly. As long as you do not interfere." Asmodeus replied with a sly smile, gently running his fingers through Malice's hair as he pictured the planned events unfolding.

Knock knock

"Come in!" Rosaleya replied, quickly hiding her paper and pencil. She was taking a five-minute break from her studying to try drawing an Anime character that she liked. It had ended in failure, much like every other attempt she had made at drawing Anime or Manga characters.

"I just talked to Luna about tomorrow." Celeste informed. "She agreed to talk with me about it tomorrow a week ago, so I'm letting you know that when I come back tomorrow, I'm probably going to have some really good news for you."

"Oh, thank you so much." Rosaleya replied cheerfully. "I really can't wait. I've been studying too much that I'm starting to get Anime and Manga withdrawals."

"Like an addiction?" Crystal asked.

"Yes. Drug withdrawal is the group of symptoms that occur upon the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of medications or recreational drugs." Rosaleya stated in a robotic tone.

Crystal laughed politely at Rosaleya's joke, and then praised her for her hard work on her studies.

"Can I ask why you are so determined to study things that you already know so well? I mean, you're going there to learn how to use your magic...Leigh has already taught you everything important with his strict schooling, right?"

"Yes, but in the history books, Harry Potter went to school after 'flipping through' his textbooks, and to test his knowledge, the potions teacher asked him a bunch of random questions. He ended up looking like an idiot because he didn't have ANY answers, and if my prince is there when that happens to me, I would pay a very high price for Nova to rewind time for me so that I could study to prevent that. But, instead of doing that, I'm going to pretend that I already made that wish, and here I am after time was re-winded, preventing that mistake." Rosaleya explained at lightning speed. "Cool, right?"

"Uh..." Crystal tried to absorb Rosaleya's detailed explanation for a few seconds. "...yeah...Good job." she nodded with a half-smile. "Well, I have to get my thoughts together and rehearse tomorrow's meeting. I want to make sure that you get in to Hogwarts." Crystal promised with a determined expression.

"I understand if you can't do it." Rosaleya replied sweetly. "Besides; I can always wish for it from Nova if all else fails."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Any plans for today?" Elias sipped his tea and then looked down in his cup, almost seeing his reflection in the dark red colored tea.

"On a Monday? ugh no... I am staying home today..." Lily replied with the air that clearly told that a Monday was the most boring and tiring day in a week.

...perfect...and our parents have postponed their return to England, which means I will be alone with her for a while, but how shall I start this conversation with Lily?... He looked at the opened envelope resting on the table in the breakfast room. He had read the letter three times and knew the content by heart. His parents won't return home until sometime at the end of the August.

"Have you ever been on a date?" He asked bluntly, out of the blue.

"Huh? what?" Lily looked at her brother with a troubling expression. She had not been expecting that kind of question all of sudden.

He sighed inwardly, wondering how he would lead her into this odd conversation when he knew she never had been dating anyone.

"I am just curious. Have you never met someone you-"

"What? No! Why are you bringing this subject up all of sudden? You know I have been turning down every boy who asked me out during my years at Hogwarts..."

"I know. I am bringing this up because I wonder why you turned every one of them down-"

"And I have already told you before. It is because I want my father to pick the perfect suitor for me. You know how rich he is and he already had a high position in the ministry before he become the minister, hence I trust that he will find someone like him-"

"You wish to marry someone who is old enough to be your father?" Elias nearly choked on his tea.

"No, I mean someone who is young but is same as father, ugh you do not understand me nor are you making any sense-"

"Excuse me, miss. But it is you who is not making any sense."

Lily nearly dropped her jaw and became totally speechless.

"First you say that you wish father to pick a suitor for you and second you talk about to find the man of your dream at the summer feast. And now you are preparing to dress up as Cinderella so that you literary can drop your glass shoe anywhere at the winter ball and wait for prince charming to find you."

"How...how…did you know?"

At this, Elias wanted to reply with 'Perhaps I watched these two silly films with you.' But he instead he said: "Because I know you well, more than I know myself.."

A long silence filled in as Lily looked down at her plate and tried to focus on her pancakes. She looked somehow troubled. Elias wondered if it was because he had guessed about her plans for the winter ball so soon or if his parents were the reason to her weird behavior. …Perhaps they only allow her to interact with potential suitors at balls when they are present with her...?

"You know that you are not real siblings with Alastair because you do not share blood. Even when you two become sister and brother in laws." Elias broke the silence.

"What are you trying to tell me with that?" Lily looked up from her plate with surprise.

"You did not find the Beast at the summer feast, but he was the one who made a birthday cake for you-"

"It was actually Luna's idea, he just helped her to make her the cake-"

"I know, you have already told me this. What I am trying to say that Luna already knows how to bake and cook. You know how ambitious she is, so ambitious that she has inspired you to take classes in Cooking with Magic. She could have made the cake on her own, but still Alastair helped her. Don't you ask yourself why?"

"Why?

"Why? Perhaps he is interested in you, but you ruined your chance yesterday by turning him down so rudely. Why did you turn him down? Has mother or father asked you to?"

"No...but...but..."

"But what?

"Well, mother has always told me to avoid boys at Hogwarts...because...according to her, boys can cause me mischief and having a boyfriend never lasts...and that I should only focus on my studies and that I will meet a perfect suitor at balls when I am old enough to get married. And…and... since father has always been so and still is so nice and showers me with gifts...well...that's why I trust him to pick a suitor for me...because he would obviously pick someone like him, wouldn't he? He has actually not talked with me about this matter..."

"I see..."

Another silence filled in. Elias was stirring his tea even if he had not put any sugar in it. He was just stirring it to clear his mind. Lily finished her pancakes and was munching on a vanilla muffin.

"Lily.."

"Yeah.."

"If someone approached you at a ball in near future, only dances with you and then asks you if you two could date afterwards, what would you answer?"

"To ask my father of his consent-"

"No! No! No!" Elias put his hand on his forehead as if Lily was giving him headache. "Do not ever let such words out of your mouth! Father is not expecting that, is he?"

"No.....But eh-"

"No buts! Just simply introduce that person to us. That won't be difficult, will it?"

"No..."

"Good, and by the way, do not worry about Alastair anymore. I believe he is already dating someone, because there was a lady with him at the summer feast."

"Oh.."

"Just don't repeat your mistake if someone asks you out.."

"Mmm..."

"And don't throw away you shoe on a ball, expecting prince charming to turn up with it.."

"Why? I do what I like at balls!"

"What if the person you least expect pick up your shoe?"

"I will just turn him down, duh!"

"Merlin's beard..."

"What did you say?!"

"Nothing, sweetie...by the way, there's going be a Halloween party before the winter ball. I do not know who is hosting it, but Luna has mentioned about it to me. Have you ever thought about dressing up in something different.."

"Something different?"

"Yeah.." Elias looked at Lily for a while, wondering what kind of costume would suit her raven black hair and blue eyes. "You could make a twisted look of your usual attires for a ball, or dress up in a fun costume..."

"What? You want me to look ugly at a ball?"

"Merlin's beard, no, absolutely no. Have you never read about Halloween parties in your Muggle Studies classes?"

"Are you suggesting that we are going to attend a muggle party at the end of October?"

..Merlin's beard, she does not get it..

"No, the party will be hosted by the wizarding community, so there will be no muggles around. The main idea is to dress up differently."

"Hmm..."

Mulciber looked baffled when Adela was approaching their meeting place, in the entrance hall, arm in arm with Alexis and her two friends walking close behind.

He was dressed in his best suit and have used so much aftershave that his back slicked black hair was so shiny that it hurt Adela's eyes and that he smelled so much that it itched her nose. She bit her tongue hard to refrain from speaking out her thoughts aloud. Even if she would mean it as sarcasm, she did not dare to say that she preferred the smell of blood.

He opened his mouth to speak, but she spoke before he had the chance to say anything.

"I was thinking that since we are going to an amusement park today, it would be merrier the more we are." She then smiled towards Alexis. It was rather forced smile than a natural one and he misunderstood her and thought that she was seeking his help since they both knew she was bad at lying.

"And I begged Adela if I could join as well, because I love going to amusement parks. I did not want to be left out. It was my idea that she also could bring miss Travers and miss Jugson with her-"

"Did someone say amusement park?" Avery turned up with a wide grin on his face.

"Yeah, you'd like to tag along?" Alexis grinned.

"Sure, let me call on Lloyd and Raymond." Avery said, holding up his wand.

There was a difficult expression on Mulciber's face. Alexis was avoiding his look, looking at anything else but him. ...Ivan was expecting a date with Adela and I literary ruined it... He smirked. Since he has turned his face away from Mulciber and was looking at his sister, Adela misunderstood the smirk on his lips and thought he was planning some mischief. She looked uncomfortable.

"What's the matter?" Alexis asked with a frown.

"Nothing..." She looked down at her shoes. ...I don't know what he is planned, but I am at least not left alone with Mulciber.. She tried to reason with herself.

"Are you feeling uncomfortable because I allowed three more to join us?" He lowered his voice so that she only heard him.

"What are you whispering about?" Faeryn bent forward.

"Nothing! It's basically sibling talk!" Alexis smirked.

"Eh..." …Adela is looking uncomfortable... Faeryn exchanged looks with Endewyne. They both had noticed how uncomfortable their friend had looked like.

In that moment Macnair and Nott had arrived.

The entire company looked odd; Mulciber in his black tie suit, the three girls in their moderate summer dresses, Alexis in his everyday muggle attire, a pair of khaki trousers and a long sleeved shirt, along with Macnair, Avery and Nott who were dressed as if they were on Hawaii and not on their way to an amusement park in London.

"So which ride should we try out first?" Faeryn asked, looking excited around her surroundings. "Merry go round?"

"You want to play the ride for kids?" Avery smirked. Macnair snorted in the background. Faeryn was about to snap back at him, but Endewyne intervened before she had time to speak a word.

"So, you are already familiar with Merry go round? Why don't you try out the craziest rides and then tells us ladies about your recommendations?"

"Eh..."

"So....why do you not try out this ride for us?" Endewyne gestured at the pendulum ride. "If you are a true gentleman, should you not assure that a lady does not get uncomfortable in a ride?" There was a dramatic tone in her voice. "So, you must try out the rides first and decide if it is suitable for a lady or not...Do you not agree with me, ladies?" She turned towards Faeryn and Adela, who both nodded to eagerly, looking as if they were going to burst out in laughter as they tried to keep serious expressions. Avery looked like a complete looser, standing there with his mouth open and being speechless. Everyone else remained silent. Nott looked bored and did not care if the girls wanted to play the rides for kids. Mulciber was only feeling irritated about being dragged into a drama which he had not planned. Alexis was feeling anxious, wondering if his friends would laugh at him if he played the silly rides. He was debating with himself if he should stick with his friends or choose to join Adela with her friends, because he wanted to be with her but at the same time, he did not want to be picked on afterwards.

"Well then, I will take your silence as a yes..." Endewyne clapped her hands. "Let's meet at the Ice cream parlor over there at six o'clock," She gestured at an ice cream parlor that was close to the Ferris wheel. "Let's go ladies!" She clung arms with Faeryn and Adela and together they walked away quickly.

"Well then, shall we?" Nott did not wait for an answer and already made his way towards a roller coaster.

"What about the pendulum? We-" Avery began

"Let's save that one at the end."

Alexis was about to follow his friends who seemed that they did not notice that he was behind, but before he could take any step forward, Mulciber grabbed him by his collar.

"Why the bloody hell did you have to intervene and bring all these people?" He nearly sputtered.

A woman was just passing by with a baby stroller and her five-year-old child. She looked shocked at the man who was so elegantly dressed yet looked as if he was going to fight with the other man who looked so innocent in her eyes. She hurried past them to avoid seeing the drama that threatened to come up to the surface.

"Ehm...we are actually in a public place...a public muggle place..." Alexis spoke calmly.

"Answer my question. Why are you trying to get into my and Adela's way?" Mulciber did not care if they were among muggles or in a public space. They could have been anywhere, even on the moon, and he would have been scolding Alexis as usual.

"I... I am not...I am sorry I did not tell you the full truth earlier today...but actually Adela asked me to join her. I did not beg her. And she even asked her friends. Adela is just innocent...I don't think she understand that you desire to date her-"

Mulciber tightened his grip and nearly choked Alexis.

"To innocent and she spent the summer feast with a bloody vampire? Are you being sarcastic?"

"Come on, I don't know what her relationship is with-"

"Don't pretend like that you don't know. I am not that stupid. I heard that they even switched drinks with each other at the feast."

"That was a mistake. Trust me, I witnessed it with my eyes. They did not do it intentionally."

Mulciber looked as if he did not believe a single word of what Alexis said.

"Please let me go...I know you don't care about the muggles…but if you really care about my sister you should let me go. If she sees you treating me like this, you will just make it even more difficult for yourself to get closer to her..."

Mulciber seemed to consider Alexis' words. He hesitated for a moment and let go of his collar reluctantly.

Alexis adjusted his shirt and smoothed out the wrinkles the best he could.

"Well...I... I just wanted to ask you why you are so interested in my sister," He spoke carefully. "Since she was a Ravenclaw and not a Slytherin..." He hurried to add.

"What do you mean?" There was a dangerous look in Mulciber's eyes, yet he looked so confused.

"I will explain," Alexis smiled as if the earlier incident had been nothing at all. "Let us sit please," He gestured towards a bench under the shadow of a couple of trees close by. Just as they neared the bench, he held up his hand. "Excuse me for a second please, I am very thirsty, I will be right back..." He hurried away before Mulciber could react, nearly running towards the drink stand and came back with two cans of Fanta.

Mulciber was already sitting. Alexis sat down beside him and offered him one can.

"No thank you. I never drink those weird fizzy drinks."

"Well…" ...I will have to drink up the both, since it will turn lukewarm if I keep one for Adela when she is back...and I cannot use any magic here...or she could just cool it up later...but then it will just look odd if I offered her a can of drink in front of everyone. She will perhaps think I am treating her like a child...I bet she will have lots of drinks with her friends anyway…

"So what did you mean earlier? You said you were going to explain?"

"Oh, about that..." Alexis opened a can and sipped the fizzy sweet and cold orange drink. "Well...as I said, she was a Ravenclaw and you were a Slytherin. A witch has stronger genes than a wizard. There's a high risk that your future children will be in Ravenclaw. And you know how proud we Slytherins are about our house. So proud that we expect our future children to be-"

"Cut it. You do not need to worry about my future children. That fact about the genes in this matter is just a hoax. It all comes down to the parents, how they bring up their children. And trust me, I shall be the one who bring up my future children as true Slytherins."

Alexis did not answer and opened the second can as soon as he had finished the first one. ...I wish I could shove up this can into his face.... He thought as he sipped his drink.

Adela, Faeryn and Endewyne was chatting and laughing happily when they walked over to the Ice cream parlor and bought ice cream. Their cheeks were glowing red. They had had so much fun in their lives.

"So, where are they?" Faeryn looked at her watch and noticed that they had been waiting five minutes for the others to come to their meeting place.

"Over there..." Endewyne snickered and nodded towards Avery who was being supported by both Macnair and Nott. Avery looked very pale and sick. It was crystal clear on his face that he had been throwing up a lot. Mulciber and Alexis were walking behind. The former one looked more irritated than ever, since he had wasted an entire day without getting the chance to get a little closer to Adela. The latter one looked as if he had been enjoying a couple of rides with the others.

"So, any recommendations?" Endewyne asked, biting her lower lip mischievously. But then before anyone could speak, she said: "Save your breath, you look like you are to impotent to speak." There was a mixed tone in her voice, as if she was being sarcastic while pitying Avery. "We already tried out all the rides. The pendulum was the best one!"

Macnair nearly dropped his jaw.

"The roller coaster with the three loops was also fun!" Faeryn giggled.

"Eh…well...we have decided to get back since Lachlan is feeling very sick..." Nott scratched his hair.

"Oh..." Endewyne pretended to pity him.

Macnair clenched his fist. He wished he could punch her right one her face for being so rude but refrained from doing so because she was a lady and because they were in a public place.

"Well, I wish to speak with miss Dolohov in private..." Mulciber intervened.

...You fricking jerk... Alexis thought. ...That was unexpected...

"I don't think we have anything-..." Adela began, her voice nearly shaking.

"Oh, come on, sweetie!" Faeryn intervened and looked happily at her friend with the 'I and Endewyne will be here waiting for you, do not worry. Good luck' face.

...It is not like what you think Faeryn... Adela thought for herself. ...I should have remained in my office and ignored the invite by Mulciber instead...but Merlin knows what he would have done then...sigh, I guess I have no choice...

"Let's take a walk shall we?" Mulciber suggested. "I like to walk and talk," He smiled.

Adela shrugged since she did not care at all but decided to accept his request so that she could explain for him that she had not the same feelings towards him.

"We will meet at the castle, you do not need to wait for me here," She smiled towards Faeryn and Endewyne. ...I can do this...

They walked for a while in silence. They had left the amusement park and went to walk in the town.
Adela was feeling very awkward and wished that she was far away from Mulciber.

"Be honest with me..." He began slyly, looking at her sideways with a smirk. "Did you really ask your brother and your friends to join you today?"

"Yes..." Adela replied, looking in front of her. She felt his gaze on her, feeling very uncomfortable about it.

"Why? The invite was only for you, my lady. You trust a vampire more than a human, that you do not ask anyone to accompany you when you meet him?" He reached out his hand towards her and nearly caressed her as he put a strand of her hair behind her ear.

"Don't touch me!" She flinched and nearly tripped. "And yes! I trust him but not you!" She tried to walk away and hurried on her steps. But he was faster than her. He grabbed her shoulder and nearly pushed her against the wall of a building.

"Are you out of your mind? There are only one thing vampires want...and you can never deny it..." This time he reached out his hand towards her neck, attempting to caress it.

"I said don't touch me!" She slapped his hand and tried to walk away. ...there are people around here in town...but why is no one seeing me or reacting to this harassment? ...Merlin's beard...

She was not to fast enough and Mulciber stopped her once more, coming even closer. The smell of his strong cologne and aftershave was so strong that she felt so sick and suddenly she threw up all over his fancy suit.

"You disgusting-" He began, but a sudden presence made him nearly speechless.

A young lady walked up towards them. She walked with the air of pride and superiority.

For a moment he met her eyes and wondered who she was. She looked so familiar, yet he could not recall where he had seen her before.

"What are you doing?" Aislinn hissed and put her arm around Adela. "Harassing my future sister in law?! How dare you?!"

Mulciber went paler than a ghost and was almost paralyzed of fear. ...It could not be...

"Let's go dear," Aislinn spoke softly to Adela and led her away.

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

August 1st

Elias? Luna touched her brooch. She had arrived early to the headmaster's office where they would be meeting Rosaleya and discussing her Hogwarts attendance with Crystal.

Crystal and Rosaleya were on their way, but in the meantime, three other unexpected people had arrived as well, claiming to be here to discuss their Hogwarts attendance this year.

When Luna heard Elias's reply, Luna continued. In addition to Crystal's student, four others have also arrived without an appointment, and three of them are looking to become students. I hope you don't mind seeing them all today, instead of bothering with four separate meetings. In my opinion, this would be more convenient, but of course, you are the headmaster.

She released her brooch. It's true; I told no lies. I never wanted the position of headmaster, and I am grateful that he took it without me insisting. Right now, however, I am puzzled as to why four different people arrived on the same date as Rosaleya and Crystal's appointment as if they knew what was going on...Did one of them tell these people? Perhaps Rosaleya has a habit of gossiping? But no, Crystal said that Rosaleya generally doesn't speak about private affairs to strangers, and Crystal isn't one to gossip...Besides; Crystal told me that Rosaleya doesn't have any friends, so these can't possibly be.... Luna thought as she surveyed the four strangers.

Luna was seated in front of the headmaster's desk, as the space behind it was reserved for Elias. The four strangers all stood near the west wall, a few feet apart from one another. None of them had spoken a word since their introduction. There was a mysterious young man in a mask and cloak who had a smooth and gentle voice and seemed to be the type to keep to himself. Then, an energetic, well-dressed man with black hair and stunning purple eyes who had arrived with an equally well-dressed boy who, in sharp contrast, seemed to be a reticent person. Finally, there was teenage girl with short purple hair that wore a black suit with a tie.

"Is there a problem, Ms.?" Nova asked politely after a few minutes had passed in silence.

"No, I'm just waiting for the headmaster much like everyone else here." Luna replied calmly, as if there was no problem at all.

"I thought that only Rosaleya and I were here for this meeting?" Crystal questioned after she had greeted Luna in her usual jovial way, then exchanged greetings with everyone else. Rosaleya had greeted everyone as well, and she had managed to remain calm whilst doing so. Nova had greeted both Crystal and Rosaleya with particularly obvious warmth, as if they were both close friends to him, while Stephan hadn't even made eye contact when he greeted them quietly, just as he had greeted everyone else.

"These were unexpected," Luna addressed Crystal, then turned to address everyone else "but at the same time, it is very convenient to see you all at once." She gave Crystal a subtle, questioning look, as if asking 'Did you tell them about today's meeting?' to which Crystal shook her head slightly.

"Greetings, headmaster." Nova jovially offered Elias his hand to shake when he entered the room.

"Good day, Elias." Luna offered her hand for Elias to shake after Nova had finished.

Then everyone else exchanged greetings. Stephan didn't make eye contact and nearly muttered his greeting without offering his hand to shake. Athena greeted everyone with a professional demeanor and a firm handshake. The Masked Man didn't speak while greeting, merely offering his hand to shake.)

Meanwhile, in the place in Knockturn Alley where they had been meeting, Celeste stood, accompanied by Dante in his tiger form. She was talking while every now and then Dante nodded or shook his head, or growled in response. Their usual portal stood nearby.

"Good day." Celeste smiled when August arrived. She wasn't wearing her cloak today, but a similar Chinese outfit like their last date. This time, her long, thick hair was braided neatly, ending a bit past her waist. She curtsied elegantly before gesturing to the portal. "Shall we?"

The sixth date...In exchange for their last date, he was told to control this date, one week ago... Dante thought. I don't know why; he disappointed my sister. Why should he...ah, never mind. He's just like the rest: he won't last long and he won't live up to my sister's expectations, even if he was given several lifetimes to try...

 

[Hikari Chan]

Endewyne read the owl she had received last night with shock. She had arrived with Faeryn at the castle and since they both knew that Adela had gone with Mulciber on a walk, they both believed that she had been in safe hands and did not bother to check if Adela had come back or not and went to sleep later at the evening. The owl had arrived to Endewyne’s office that evening, but she did not see the envelope on the window sill until in the morning. Her window was always open in the office due to hot summer days. She was very surprised by the content of the letter. It was nothing she had been expecting to receive by Adela.

…This is so hard to believe…it cannot be? With his profession and current employment, Mulciber would not go that far. Harassing Adela? No that can’t be…not in a public space or in front muggles, that does not sound like him at all. She must be exaggerating. And the worst is that one of our superiors walked right into them. That would give him a bad reputation if this came out…and it won’t be fair towards him, since I believe he is innocent, and that Adela is exaggerating. I bet he was just trying to kiss her hand or cheek after he must have confessed to her…and that’s a normal thing, isn’t it? She must have been making such a big fuss of it, that’s so typically of her…and Monroe, of anyone who could have walked right into them it had to be her?…I don’t trust that girl at all… Endewyne thought anxiously as she hurried over to Faeryn’s office.

..Yes my lady.. Elias thought as his hand brushed the brooch he was wearing.

In addition to Crystal's student, four others have also arrived without an appointment, and three of them are looking to become students. I hope you don't mind seeing them all today, instead of bothering with four separate meetings. In my opinion, this would be more convenient, but of course, you are the headmaster.

...No, I do not mind at all, I rather have one meeting than hundred. Lily will also be attending since she is going to take an extra year to learn cooking with Magic. I will see you soon...

He removed his hand from his brooch and looked up from the bottom of the stairs where he was waiting for his sister.

“Lily, for Merlin’s sake! This is not a date or fancy party you are going to!” He called.

...It actually annoys me that four have arrived without an appointment, not even sending an owl..?

“Yeah I know. Seriously, I just finished getting ready.” Lily replied 2 seconds later, descending the stairs. She was wearing her school uniform. Her face was neutral with no make-up and her hair was done in same usual style.

“You decided to wear your school uniform? You don’t start today, you know. There’s a still month left of the summer holidays…” Elias commented with a raised eyebrow.

“I know,” Lily smiled. “Though since I am returning for an extra year, I feel it is most suitable to wear my school uniform…and I will look more professional in a uniform than something fancy or casual.”

“I cannot thank you enough for stepping in last night and letting me stay here over the night. How shall I ever repay you for this?”

“Don’t thank me...” ...I did it for Vincent…

“Well...I need to return back to Hogwarts...”

“Are you sure? You can stay here more if you need, until it is time to return to teach your classes. It is still a month left of the summer holiday.”

“Oh no, I…I don’t want to be a burden to you and your family. Besides it won’t be appropriate if I stayed over at your place for too long…”

“It is fine actually. You are Vincent’s girlfriend and besides you were harassed last night. I bet this is the only place you would feel safe at, won’t you?”

“It is not like what you think. We have just been hanging out a couple of times and even if I only danced with him, aside from sharing a dance with one of my brothers, he has not asked me out yet. And it is fine, I won’t be alone at Hogwarts...No one can harm me there...”

“Oh…I see…but did you not send him a love letter the other day?”

“Well…I did not really confess to him in the letter…I just asked him about his health and if we could see each other soon...”

“What? Merlin’s hairy beard...ugh, do you even need someone to confess to him for you? If so I am going to tell him that you-“

“Oh no please, I wish to do it myself, but I prefer to do it face to face rather in a letter…”

“Alright, when are you going to do it?”

“At the next feast-”

“Girl, are you going to wait to the next summer?!”

“No, there’ll probably be a ball or something before that. If there’s a summer feast, there might be something to celebrate the other seasons as well, don’t you think so?”

“Well I don’t know, but let’s hope for that…if nothing comes up, I am going to throw a birthday party for myself and invite everyone. Then you can confess to him, right?”

“Oh, when is that?”

“Not until 22nd December…you will have plenty of time to gather your courage until then…hehe...you are blushing…Ooo...”

“Eh…well eh I need to get going….Thank you, thank you for everything... you are really sweet...”

“Please...” Aislinn could not help but laugh ironically. …Me sweet? Heh...I am far from being a sweet person…

“Honestly, I do not know what to believe,” Faeryn looked shocked at Endewyne, nearly crumbling the letter in her hand.

“Ah...please, careful, don’t destroy the letter...let’s have some breakfast first. Give it back to me. I bet the entire staff is in the staff room, so let’s not talk about it-“

“Why? I bet that Monroe girl will gossip about Mulciber sooner or later and ruin his reputation as a professor, if it turns out that he is falsely accused, and Adela is just exaggerating…so if we talk with the others about it, we might avoid such situation, won't we?...ugh I cannot understand her…ugh...she trust Monroe who is related to vampires over a friend to her brother-”

“Are you worried about Mulciber’s reputation or about Adela? To be honest I am more worried about her since she can be so naive, and Monroe may take advantage of her. I wish we could speak to Adela’s two older brothers, but none of them care the slightest about her. The only one who seem to care is her third brother...Alexis...but he seems to be the type that would believe everything she would say and side her in anything without taking the consideration of others who are involved. Anyway, Monroe is not the type who gossips...so I don't think it will do any good to tell about this matter to the others. The best is that we only speak with Adela and Mulciber about this to clear the misunderstanding between them …if this came out to the entire staff, it will only cause a lot of drama which will be not good for the reputation of this school...”

"Good morning," Elias greeted to everyone as soon as he entered his office. He shook hands with one of the guests, Nova, who had offered him his hand. Otherwise he refrained from shaking hands with the rest of them.

"Good morning, Luna," He took her hand and hold it between his both for a couple of seconds before he let go and took his seat behind the desk. Lily had entered quietly and greeted everyone a good morning with a firm voice without doing any handshakes.

Elias surveyed every one of them during what seemed to feel like to be five minutes of silence. However, in reality it was only 10 seconds that passed in silence.

"It pleases me to see that more would like to join the extracurricular study group at Hogwarts. Welcome," He smiled. "As you all know, which I hope you do, this meeting is for wizards and witches who have missed school or just need to take an extra year to take an extra class. However..." He added giving anyone the chance to reply. "…since four of you arrived without making an appointment with me, miss Lestrange or miss Thorne..." There was a hint on the tone of his voice that it was unprofessional to arrive to a meeting or a place without making an appointment and that he would not accept or tolerate such blunders in future. "...this meeting will take much longer than expected, so please have a seat." He waved his wand and six chairs appeared out of thin air. There were two chairs in front of his desk where Luna was sitting and the second one was reserved.

When everyone has taken their seats, Elias continued: "Well, as I said you will be joining a extracurricular study group, however some of you will go through the sorting ceremony, which means you will be sorted into a house. Hogwarts will be your second home and your house will be like your family."

He picked out a parchment scroll which he had prepared. He made five copies the scroll by using Geminio. When he was done, each scroll flew away to Rosaleya and the other four who had arrived without an appointment.

"The scrolls I just handed out contain the rules of this school which you are obligated to keep. It is also your responsibility to read through the rules after this meeting."

He took out another parchment scroll and made five copies of it as well. He handed them out together with magical quills that already contained ink, in the same manner as he had done with the previous scrolls.

"Core classes are mandatory. You may however choose as many classes as you like from the electives and extracurricular with one condition though. If you are under 16 years old, you cannot take the classes in Alchemy and Apparition. Anyone under 13 years old can only take the core classes. You need to write your full name, first name and last time, along with your full birthday as well. When you are done, you may hand in your scroll to me."


First name:
Last name:
Full birthday: Day-month-year:

Core classes

Astronomy
Charms
Defense against the dark arts
Flying
Herbology
History of Magic
Muggle studies
Potions
Transfiguration

Electives (3+)

Alchemy (6/7) ☐
Apparition (6/7) ☐
Dark Arts (4-7) ☐
Dueling ☐
Arithmancy ☐
Care of Magical creatures ☐
Cooking with magic ☐
Divination ☐
Study of Ancient Runes ☐

Extra-curricular subjects (3+)

Ancient studies ☐
Magic in art ☐
Postmortem studies ☐
Magical theory ☐
Wizarding Law ☐
MagiPsychology ☐
Wizarding Literature ☐
Healing & Medicinal Magic ☐
Wizarding Economics & Necessities ☐

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Elias surveyed everyone of them during what seemed to feel like to be five minutes of silence. However, in reality it was only 10 seconds that passed in silence.

Athena and Nova didn't seem bothered at all. It was difficult to tell what the 'Masked Man' was thinking, although his posture was calm and confident. Stephan had his to the window behind the Headmaster's desk to avoid looking at Rosaleya. He was too worried that she would notice if he dared to steal a glance at her.

Rosaleya grew nervous when she saw that Elias was displaying signs of strictness. I hope I didn't choose something too weird to wear today...Should I have worn my uniform like Lily? She resisted the urge to look down at her clothing to confirm her suspicions. She was wearing her usual attire that she wore at the store; a pair of dark blue jeans, a long-sleeve plain black cotton shirt, and black All-Stars. I picked a normal-looking hairstyle, right? Her hair was also done in its usual style; a high ponytail with lots of fly-aways. (Rosaleya has fly-away hair, which she is a little self-conscious about, thinking that perhaps it looks strange...But when she tries to use a gel or clips to hide them, it looks more strange. They actually look really cool, but she doesn't realize it because she thinks that they are a 'flaw' rather than a cute quirk.)

"It pleases me to see that more would like to join the extracurricular study group at Hogwarts. Welcome," He smiled. "As you all know, which I hope you do, this meeting is for wizards and witches who have missed school or just need to take an extra year to take an extra class. However..." He added giving anyone the chance to reply. "I will discuss my student's reasons with you two in private." Crystal said to Luna and Elias, and Rosaleya was secretly grateful that no one else would be hearing about her lack of magical talent thus far...yet. "As would I." Nova said. No one else spoke. "..since four of you arrived without making an appointment with me, miss Lestrange or miss Thorne..." There was a hint on the tone of his voice that it was unprofessional to arrive to a meeting or a place without making an appointment and that he would not accept or tolerate such blunders in future.

To this, Nova and Athena laughed a bit through their noses; it seemed that they didn't take this part of his speech seriously. Rosaleya understood this reaction from Nova, but she was surprised to see it from the stranger with purple hair (Athena). However, she still couldn't get over the shock she felt at discovering the Masked Man's plan to attend Hogwarts. She hoped that they would be in the same house so that she could perhaps find out more about him.

"...this meeting will take much longer than expected, so please have a seat." He waved his wand and six chairs appeared out of thin air.

"Thank you, Sir." Rosaleya replied calmly, taking her seat. Wow! It's so cool that my voice doesn't sound as nervous as I feel!

'Sir'? What's up with her calling him 'Sir'? Athena wondered.

She uses 'Miss' and 'Sir' when she's nervous. Like that time she forgot to do the dishes, she called Leigh 'Sir' while apologizing and running to the kitchen sink. Or the time when she forgot to unpack that box of men's shoes for...Crystal thought, letting her mind wander for a bit.

"Well, as I said you will be joining an extracurricular study group, however some of you will go through the sorting ceremony, which means you will be sorted into a house. Hogwarts will be your second home and your house will be like your family."

This is going to be so cool! Rosaleya thought, letting her excitement replace her nervousness almost completely. I can't wait to see what the rest of the place looks like! I hope that the curfew isn't lifted too late in the morning; I want to see the sunrise from one of the roofs at least once! I also hope that they let me wear a boy's uniform just like Utena Tenjou wears one!

Elias picked out a parchment scroll which he had prepared. He made five copies the scroll by using Geminio. When he was done, each scroll flew away to Rosaleya and the other four who had arrived without an appointment.

"The scrolls I just handed out contain the rules of this school which you are obligated to keep. It is also your responsibility to read through the rules after this meeting."

"Understood, Sir." Rosaleya replied seriously. Please, I hope the rules aren't too strict! I'll memorize them by heart! As soon as I get back home, I'll read them over and over until I memorize them!

I wonder if they let you come to the table where the food is being served, take an item, and then leave a minute later to go do some studying while everyone else is wasting all that time talking? Athena wondered.

Elias took out another parchment scroll and made five copies of it as well. He handed them out together with magical quills that already contained ink, in the same manner as he had done with the previous scrolls.

"Core classes are mandatory. You may however choose as many classes as you like from the electives and extracurricular with one condition though. If you are under 16 years old you cannot take the classes in Alchemy and Apparition. Anyone under 13 years old can only take the core classes. You need to write your full name, first name and last time, along with your full birthday as well. When you are done, you may hand in your scroll to me."

! Rosaleya was seated in between Athena and the Masked Man. I'll be able to see his real name if I peek over after he's written it! She thought as she began writing her personal information down.

First name: Rosaleya

Hmm... She paused, slightly confused. Do I write my middle name on here as well? Would I look stupid if I asked? Well...I have to...I'm not sure! Okay, if I'm going to ask, I should piece together a sentence in my head that sounds smart, at least...

"Excuse me?" Rosaleya directed her attention to Crystal.

"Yes?" She replied with a helpful smile.

Here goes... "Forgive me for sounding ignorant, but should I write my middle name as well? If so, where?"

Crystal smiled in an amused way before replying "You can if you want to. If it was me, I would write it next to the 'last name' section. Do you agree, Luna?" Crystal turned to Luna, who shrugged in agreement, then turned to Elias for a third opinion.

"Thank you." Rosaleya nodded and continued writing.

Last name: Macabre (my middle name) Fairbrook

Rosaleya took a break to laugh quietly. Like Sir Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing! I love that part...And the Macabre part...It sounds so cool!

Full birthday: January 18, 2000. Day-month-year: 18/1/2000

She scanned over the core classes and shrugged. She had studied each one of those, so they wouldn't be a problem in terms of written tests, since her problem wasn't memorizing information, but casting spells.

Electives (3+) Hmm....Arithmancy has always been boring...and so has Divination and Ancient Runes....snore...I don't really like animals, so Care of Magical creatures is not cool either...Alchemy isn't something I will use, so I'm going to ignore that...Duelling and Apparition sound pretty hands-on, and that's what I'm here for, so...Oh, and Cooking with Magic, too! Rosaleya coloured in the boxes for Apparition, Duelling, and Cooking with Magic before pondering the Extra-curricular subjects. She ended up selecting Healing and Medicinal Magic, Wizarding Literature, MagiPsychology, Wizarding Economics and Necessities, Dark Arts, and Magic in Art.

She had been so absorbed by her thoughts that she had both forgotten to peek at the Masked Man's name, and hadn't noticed Stephan peeking over at her papers, which Athena had noticed with a smirk. By the time Rosaleya had remembered to peek, it was almost too late. She managed to see his name just as he was casually standing up to return it to the Headmaster.

He...he marked it as... she thought in disbelief, questioning if she could have possibly misread it.

While she had been writing, she had tuned out Nova's talking with Elias.

"I have a question, Headmaster." Nova began respectfully. "I am a surgeon at a Muggle hospital, so as you know I am constantly on call. If I were to attend Hogwarts, would it be acceptable for me to leave class temporarily when I receive a call, then return when the procedure is over, provided that I send in my homework on time with all of the correct answers? I am the only surgeon at that hospital, so there is no one else to take my place...I would really like to attend Hogwarts and I was worried about my career getting in the way, as I noticed the rules state that students are not permitted to leave the grounds unless for a Hogsmeade weekend, or unless it is winter break..." he pointed to that part of the rules "You may be wondering why i want to attend Hogwarts at all if I already have a career... " He sighed quietly "...Attending Hogwarts has always been a dream of mine... But my parents insisted on educating me by themselves without any 'distractions'. They always told me 'When you grow up, you can do as you like'...So, here I am." Nova shrugged as if to say 'that's the end of my story'.

He eyed the Headmaster with a hopeful gaze, conveying his hope that Elias would understand.

"Unfortunately, that isn't an option." Nova replied apologetically, but also firmly. If someone calls me for a wish, I can't ignore them! There aren't enough people that believe in me as it is, and if I ignore the ones that are brave enough to try to summon me, then that would just lower the amount even more!

"Ah...Well, thank you for listening." he said, visibly disappointed. He returned the parchments to Elias without anything written on them, then returned to his seat without another word.

Stephan's:

First name: Stephan
Last name: Garnett
Full birthday: April 2nd, 2002 Day-month-year: 2/4/02

He chose all of the classes that Rosaleya chose by discreetly peeking at her choices.

Athena's:

First name: Athena
Last name: Lovett
Full birthday: July 1st, 2000 Day-month-year: 1/7/00
She didn't want to take anything except for the core classes, and Magic in Art, so that was all she chose.

The Masked Man's:

First name: Edmund
Last name: Dantes
Full birthday: June 17th, 1997 Day-month-year: 17/6/97
He signed up for every single class.

Eventually, everyone handed in their parchments. In order of completion: Athena, 'Edmund Dantes', Rosaleya and Stephan. Stephan didn't make eye contact, Rosaleya looked calm, and the Masked Man nonchalantly remained silent.

Everyone took their seats and awaited Elias's response.

Rosaleya's fly-aways are so cute. Athena thought, starting to read the rules. These fools better say it's okay to wear a boy's uniform; I'm not wearing a useless skirt.

I need to get into the same house as Rosaleya. Stephan thought determinedly upon seeing the rule that stated students weren't allowed into common rooms that weren't their own. I wonder if eating with everyone at every meal is a rule... he imagined reading the rules when they returned to the Demon Realm. If Rosaleya is sorted first, then it will be easy...but if not, then....how will I get into the same house?

I'm doing fine...I'm dressed fine...I haven't spoken too foolishly since we got here...There are so many people in here and I'm sitting right next to the mysterious Masked Man, and then there's the Headmaster over there...It's okay, just think of all the cool things in this office... Rosaleya was rubbing her thumb nervously. I'll play that game that I play where I notice little details...I have to notice all of the things in this office that I didn't notice when I first came in...Oh, there's another bookshelf there...and I didn't notice that cabinet there...Hmm, that's a nice, detailed candlestick...Why wasn't I this nervous at the Summer Feast? I was nervous, but not this much! I have to shift my thoughts off of my nerves...where was I? Oh...I wonder if that candle is scented or not...Oh, and that window has such a nice shape...I notice a single stain over there in the corner, though... Rosaleya had all of these thoughts in three seconds; her mind was racing from the nerves.

The Masked Man seemed to notice what no one else did, watching her as if he could see her thoughts. He was about to put a comforting hand on her shoulder, but he had only raised his hand half an inch before someone spoke, causing him to rethink his action and lower his hand back to its resting place on atop his other hand in his lap.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"You may write your middle name beside your first name or beside your last name," Elias replied kindly to Rosaleya.

"Thank you." Rosaleya nodded and continued writing.

Meanwhile, Nova approached Elias: "I have a question, Headmaster." Nova began respectfully. "I am a surgeon at a Muggle hospital, so as you know I am constantly on call. If I were to attend Hogwarts, would it be acceptable for me to leave class temporarily when I receive a call, then return when the procedure is over, provided that I send in my homework on time with all of the correct answers? I am the only surgeon at that hospital, so there is no one else to take my place...I would really like to attend Hogwarts and I was worried about my career getting in the way, as I noticed the rules state that students are not permitted to leave the grounds unless for a Hogsmeade weekend, or unless it is winter break..." he pointed to that part of the rules "You may be wondering why I want to attend Hogwarts at all if I already have a career... " he sighed quietly "...Attending Hogwarts has always been a dream of mine... But my parents insisted on educating me by themselves without any 'distractions'. They always told me 'When you grow up, you can do as you like'...So, here I am." Nova shrugged as if to say 'that's the end of my story'.

"I understand," Elias replied. "However, I am afraid that your career will unfortunately get in the way, because attending classes, doing exams here are mandatory besides the homework..." ...It just sounds unbelievable, the only surgeon on a muggle hospital? "...and you cannot leave a class in the middle of a lecture or an exam when you get a call. If you cannot leave your current job, I am afraid that you cannot attend Hogwarts. I am sorry."

"Ah...Well, thank you for listening." he said, visibly disappointed. He returned the parchments to Elias without anything written on them, then returned to his seat without another word.

..hmm...there must be a solution mustn't it? Elias thought for himself, thinking about possible solutions for helping a potential student to get into Hogwarts without any obstacles. He suddenly got an idea and walked over to where the man was sitting.

"I was thinking about your situation and I came to a possible solution so make it possible for you to attend Hogwarts. If you give me the full name and full address of the muggle hospital where you are working, I will forward this to the Minster of Magic, who has a lot of contacts and he will send someone who is educated in surgeon and can replace you at this muggle hospital. You don't need to give me an immediate response now. Please take your time and think about it and you can tell me your decision after this meeting is over." Elias did not wait for any response and walked back to his place.

"Thank you, everyone," Elias collected the scrolls. "Please take your seats. I have more information for you." As soon as everyone had taken their seats, he continued: "Miss Shadowwalker here has already graduated from Hogwarts and she will be taking an extra year to take classes in Cooking with Magic. Therefor she will join the extracurricular study group and be the head girl and prefect of the group."

Lily could not contain her surprise. She stared at her brother with an half open mouth.

"She will not only have the authority over the prefects, but also have the authority and responsibility over this extracurricular study group. She will be assisting other prefects on their duties and also be here to support and assist you as well, not only about following rules but also whenever you need help with your studies. She will also accompany you all together with professor Thorne to Diagon Alley to get your school supplies. You will decide on a date. School start the 3rd September. Going to Diagon Alley together is a choice. I will not force anyone into this, in case anyone of you desires to go shopping alone. However, you will have this opportunity to go together and get to know each other as well. You will receive your envelopes with everything you need; a list with what supplies you need to buy and train tickets. I will send out the owls to you as soon as I get the envelopes ready. Expect to receive the owls by the end of this week. Do you have any questions? Please raise your hands..."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

Nova politely replied to Elias when he offered, saying that he would 'think about it'.

Ah, there's no way I can think about it. I just wanted to have fun here like those two... he glanced at the Masked Man and Athena. And to help him with whatever he needed while he was here... he glanced at Stephan. but I suppose he can always visit me if he needs assistance...

"Miss Shadowwalker here has already graduated from Hogwarts and she will be taking an extra year to take classes in Cooking with Magic. Therefor she will join the extracurricular study group and be the head girl and prefect of the group."

I'm happy for her; she probably worked hard for it. Rosaleya thought while observing Lily's reaction calmly.

She probably got it because he's her brother. Tsk tsk...looks like this school is fine with nepotism. Athena thought, although her countenance revealed none of her thoughts.

"Congratulations, Lily." Luna said to Lily. That was nice of him to surprise her like that.

"Congratulations." Crystal said with a happy smile. She'll probably do a good job, considering who her brother is. I doubt that this is pure favoritism; I assume that Lily is actually a responsible person, and I won't give any more thought to the matter.

"She will not only have the authority over the prefects, but also have the authority and responsibility over this extracurricular study group. She will be assisting other prefect's on their duties and also be here to support and assist you as well, not only about following rules but also whenever you need help with your studies. She will also accompany you all together with Professor Thorne to Diagon Alley to get your school supplies. You will decide on a date. School start the 3rd September. Going to Diagon Alley together is a choice. I will not force anyone into this, in case anyone of you desires to go shopping alone. However you will have this opportunity to go together and get to know each other as well. You will receive your envelopes with everything you need; a list with what supplies you need to buy and train tickets. I will send out the owls to you as soon as I get the envelopes ready. Expect to receive the owls by the end of this week. Do you have any questions? Please raise your hands..."

Argh, I don't want to go shopping with Miss Perfect Prefect over there. She even wore her uniform to this meeting. What a showoff. Athena thought. If she didn't get her position of Prefect from her brother's nepotism, perhaps she is just a brown-noser.

That sounds fun! Rosaleya thought, hoping that no one disagreed.

Stephan, the Masked Man, Athena, and Crystal raised their hands at once, then waited patiently for Elias to call on them.

"I would prefer to visit Diagon Alley alone." the Masked Man said respectfully.

Rosaleya realized that it was the first time she had heard him talk since this meeting began. She had forgotten how unique his voice sounded. Oh... she thought. he does seem like the independent, loner type...

"My gratitude, Headmaster." the man replied in an equally respectful and elegant tone.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Can I wear a boy's uniform?" Athena asked with raised eyebrows.

I was going to ask that! Rosaleya thought in surprise.

"I absolutely detest skirts, " Athena continued "and the rules do not state that a girl cannot wear a boy's uniform. It only specifies what sort of shoes girls must wear" she read directly from the rules "...shoes [Mary Janes for girls, dress shoes for boys]." she looked up from her parchment "In which case, I much prefer dress shoes for ladies."

I hope that the Headmaster says it's okay... Rosaleya pleaded to Elias internally, although she kept her eyes to her parchment, even though she wasn't really reading them at the moment.

"Thank you." Athena seemed satisfied.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I don't desire a meal with the other students during mealtime." Stephan began as respectfully as possible. "But the rules state that..." he took a break to find the rule and read from his parchment "The requirement on attending all meals is rather loosely enforced. The faculty is understanding, but also knows that skipped meals are a great time for students to be up to no good. Head counts are taken at every meal, and a student that shows a pattern of frequent absence will be warned, and eventually disciplined." he looked to Elias with a responsible gaze "I won't be up to any good; I only want to use that time that everyone else uses for useless socializing and talking to study. I won't skip meals, but simply take a bit of food with me to where I am studying. No, I will not be eating in the library." he assured him.

"Very well." Stephan said quietly. I wonder if I can wish for him to change his mind? Would Nova let me?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Is this your real name?" Crystal asked the Masked Man. "Sorry if I sound rude, but..." she shrugged as if to say 'you get it, right?'

"It is." he replied firmly to her, then continued, addressing everyone else "Please do not mock my name for its similarities to the famous novel's main protagonist."

Rosaleya was shocked to hear this. It's not....It's not his real name! But he's lying so well that it looks like he's telling the truth...If I didn't know what happened at the store, then I would've believed him, too!

"He sounds believable enough, right?" Crystal said to Luna and Elias, then turned back to the Masked Man. "Sorry."

"There is nothing in the rules about your mask..." Luna said to the Masked Man "...but do you plan to keep it on during your time here?"

The Masked Man gave a brief yet firm nod.

Rosaleya's surprise only grew as she saw his reply.

Stephan resisted the urge to glare at the Masked Man. Nova, Stephan, and Athena all knew the Masked Man's identity.

 

[Hikari Chan]

Stephan, the Masked Man, Athena, and Crystal raised their hands at once, then waited patiently for Elias to call on them.

Elias nodded towards the masked man.

"I would prefer to visit Diagon Alley alone." the Masked Man said respectfully.

"Of course," Elias replied. "As I earlier mentioned you all choose if you prefer to go on your own or together. You can discuss this together afterwards. Those who wish to go together decide on a date when and where you need to meet. "

"My gratitude, Headmaster." the man replied in an equally respectful and elegant tone.

"Yes..." Elias nodded towards Athena.

"Can I wear a boy's uniform?" Athena asked with raised eyebrows. "I absolutely detest skirts, " Athena continued "and the rules do not state that a girl cannot wear a boy's uniform. It only specifies what sort of shoes girls must wear" she read directly from the rules "...shoes, Mary Janes for girls, dress shoes for boys." she looked up from her parchment "In which case, I much prefer dress shoes for ladies."

"Of course, the rules do not state what a girl cannot wear. It has been more of a traditional thing that girls usually dressed up as girls and boys dressed up as boys. That was more than ten years ago until one female student decided to go against the traditions and dress as a boy," Elias chuckled. "So you may wear the boy's uniform if you so desire."

"Thank you." Athena seemed satisfied.

"You are welcome...Yes?" Elias nodded towards Stephan.

"I don't desire a meal with the other students during mealtime." Stephan began as respectfully as possible. "But the rules state that..." he took a break to find the rule and read from his parchment "The requirement on attending all meals is rather loosely enforced. The faculty is understanding, but also knows that skipped meals are a great time for students to be up to no good. Head counts are taken at every meal, and a student that shows a pattern of frequent absence will be warned, and eventually disciplined." he looked to Elias with a responsible gaze "I won't be up to any good; I only want to use that time that everyone else uses for useless socializing and talking to study. I won't skip meals, but simply take a bit of food with me to where I am studying. No, I will not be eating in the library." he assured him.

"Well, the reason to that rule is that we want to assure the wellbeing of our students. We don't want our students to be malnourished and in return not being able to cope with their studies. You have to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner; however, we won't force anyone to sit in the Great Hall for every meal all year round. The head counts will be taken on every meal you take and not on how many times you are in the Great Hall. The other places aside from the Great Hall, where you may eat your meals are in your common room, the indoor gardens, by the lake and on the school grounds where garden chairs and tables are placed. There are hardly any students during the meals in the indoor gardens if you prefer to eat in solitude, so you'll likely be there on your own. You are only required to take tray with a full meal for breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the day. You do not need to return anything to the Great Hall, you just leave your tray with the dishes in one of our indoor gardens if you desire to eat dear and a house-elf will take care of it."

"Very well." Stephan said quietly.

"Is this your real name?" Crystal asked the Masked Man. "Sorry if I sound rude, but..." she shrugged as if to say 'you get it, right?'

"It is." he replied firmly to her, then continued, addressing everyone else "Please do not mock my name for its similarities to the famous novel's main protagonist."

To this Elias raised an eyebrow, looking questioningly at both Crystal, the Masked Man.

"He sounds believable enough, right?" Crystal said to Luna and Elias, then turned back to the Masked Man. "Sorry."

To this, Elias did not reply.

"There is nothing in the rules about your mask..." Luna said to the Masked Man "...but do you plan to keep it on during your time here?"

The Masked Man gave a brief yet firm nod.

"I would like to speak to Mr. Dantes in private after this meeting. It will not take long." Elias said. "Miss Thorne, I saw that you raised your hand a while ago. Would you like to ask me about something?"

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Very well." the Masked Man replied respectfully with a brief nod.

Pffft...He's going to get it for lying to the Headmaster! Athena barely stopped herself from laughing aloud.

He thinks that he's lying, too... Rosaleya looked at Elias for a second. I can't listen in on their conversation....But maybe I can ask Crystal what they said when their meeting is over? Anyway, I'm so happy that I get to wear a boy's uniform! And that I don't have to eat with everyone else, because Stephan's time-saving idea was great for studying...And that curfew isn't lifted too late in the morning to watch the sunrise. And he said something about house-elves? I've read about them...they used to handle the meals and cleaning at Hogwarts...I guess they still do.

I get to eat meals wherever I want...the Headmaster's suggestions were excellent. Stephan thought.

Miss Thorne, I saw that you raised your hand a while ago. Would you like to ask me about something?"

"After seeing Mr. Dantes alone, I would like to talk with you two about Rosaleya's attendance in private." Crystal replied.

Nova raised his hand again. Once called upon, he said "I would also like to discuss something with you in private regarding my son's attendance." Nova nodded toward Stephan, addressing all three professors.

Athena raised her hand afterwards. "I would like a complete list of contraband items at Hogwarts. " she said after being called on. "May I please have one?" she asked politely with an innocent look in her eyes, although her voice sounded mischievous.

 

[Hikari Chan]

"Sure," Elias nodded. "Yes, Mr. Garnet?"

"I would also like to discuss something with you in private regarding my son's attendance." Nova nodded toward Stephan, addressing all three professors.

"Sure, yes miss Lovett?"

"I would like a complete list of contraband items at Hogwarts. " she said after being called on. "May I please have one?" she asked politely with an innocent look in her eyes, although her voice sounded mischievous.

"Well, I gave you a scroll with the school rules, didn't I?" Elias replied firmly. "It is already listed in the same scroll that Auto-Answer Quills, Detachable Cribbing Cuffs, Self-Correcting Ink and joke items are strictly prohibited at Hogwarts."

He let that sink in before he continued: "This meeting is over if anyone desires to leave for today. Those who wish to go on a shopping tour with professor Thorne and miss Shadowwalker can decide upon a date and meeting place while I speak to Mr. Dantes in private. Next, I will speak with professor Thorne and lastly with Mr. Garnett together with professor Thorne and professor Lestrange. I will see you all on 3rd September! Have a good day."

Elias waited till everyone, but Mr. Dantes left the office. When they were left alone, and Elias had double checked that the door was closed and soundproof he resumed his seat behind his desk.

"Please take a seat," He gestured at one of the chairs in front of his desk. He waited until Mr. Dantes had sat down and made himself comfortable.

"Well, I am going to ask you a couple of things. I promise professional secrecy and none else will know about the content of this meeting. What I expect in return is your honesty. I may be the headmaster, but there also twenty-four professors at this school. I also have to report everything to the Ministry of Magic. As you earlier noticed, professors Thorne questioned your name and professor Lestrange questioned your mask. I want to hear a good reason from you why are wearing a mask and hiding your entire face."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Well, I gave you a scroll with the school rules, didn't I?" Elias replied firmly. "It is already listed in the same scroll that Auto-Answer Quills, Detachable Cribbing Cuffs, Self-Correcting Ink and joke items are strictly prohibited at Hogwarts."

That's all? No cheating items and no joke items? This guy doesn't realize how many loopholes he's leaving open in this contraband list! Athena barely resisted laughing at what she perceived to be Elias's foolishness.

"This meeting is over if anyone desires to leave for today. Those who wish to go on a shopping tour with professor Thorne and Ms. Shadowwalker can decide upon a date and meeting place while I speak to Mr. Dantes in private. Next, I will speak with professor Thorne and lastly with Mr. Garnett together with professor Thorne and professor Lestrange. I will see you all on 3rd September! Have a good day."

"Good day, Headmaster." Athena bid him farewell in the same professional voice that she had greeted him with, and was the first one out the door, muttering something about there being 'too many loopholes in the contraband list'. Everyone else left without a word, since they would be back inside soon and a parting phrase would be useless.

While Elias was confirming their privacy, the Masked Man wondered if he would get to see Elias's true personality now, when they were alone. He remained seated, looking straight ahead out the window until called upon to sit in front of the Headmaster's desk, which he did calmly.

"Well, I am going to ask you a couple of things. I promise professional secrecy and none else will know about the content of this meeting. What I expect in return is your honesty. I may be the headmaster, but there also twenty four professors at this school. I also have to report everything to the Ministry of Magic."

So your earlier promise of secrecy is useless, is it not? The Masked Man thought.

"...As you earlier noticed, professors Thorne questioned your name and professor Lestrange questioned your mask. I want to hear a good reason from you why are wearing a mask and hiding your entire face."

The Masked Man took a moment to inhale and exhale slowly, as if collecting his thoughts and translating them into speech. "My mask is simply a personal clothing preference, much like a gentleman's top hat at an event. I hardly ever take my masks off, however I can assure you that I am not a criminal or anything of the sort. Anyone that has ever seen me without it claims that I am a satanic creature, so I grew more comfortable while I wore my mask than when I was without it, much like the antagonist in the popular novel by Gaston Leroux. I will consent to revealing my face for you, if you in return promise not to publicize it." he waited for an answer. His entire speech had been delivered in theatrical tones, so that the listener didn't doubt the veracity of the story.

As soon as everyone had left the office, Luna and Crystal started talking about the Masked Man while the students and Nova stood a little further away.

"You did well handling your nerves at the meeting." Nova said to Rosaleya with a kind gaze.

"What gave me away?" Rosaleya replied quietly. I thought I was doing well!

"Your energy." Nova replied simply, then chuckled "Don't worry; the humans probably couldn't tell."

"Oh...thank you." she replied hesitantly before noticing that Athena and Stephan had nodded along to Nova's comment. "Wait, aren't you guys humans, too?"

"No." Stephan replied, as if disgusted by the thought.

"Nope." Athena replied coolly.

"Really? Do any of you know what Edmund Dantes looks like?" she asked, trying to keep the curiosity out of her voice.

"Yes." Nova and Athena replied. Stephan remained quiet.

Rosaleya waited for them to elaborate, but when they didn't she prompted "...So?"

"He told me not to tell you." Athena replied honestly, causing Rosaleya to turn to Nova with pleading eyes.

"He wished that I wouldn't tell you." Nova replied reluctantly. "Sorry, Rose."

"No no, it's okay...." she couldn't hide her slight disappointment.

"So, are you going shopping with Professor Thorne?" Athena asked Rosaleya with a kind smile, trying to change the subject.

"Well....I...." Rosaleya was about to reply that she planned on going alone, but Athena interrupted her.

"What about going with me?"

Stephan shot Athena an annoyed glare. He was standing to Rosaleya's left, so she missed it.

"Well...I don't really know you...and..." Uhm, how do I politely tell her that I'm not interested in shopping with anyone? Am I being rude if I tell her 'no', or maybe I'm being too closed-minded? Would it be cool to have a friend to go shopping with? Or is Athena the two-faced type of character that will try to get close to me before school and then use any personal information I give her to bully me during school? Putting aside the fact that she looks super cool with that hair, and that she chose to wear a suit, and that she also wants to wear a boys' uniform, I don't know her, so the answer would be-

"We'll get to know each other as we shop. It would be the same as if we happened to choose the same day to shop, because all of the students need the same items so we'd eventually end up visiting the same shops, right? Let me guess; you're going to go shopping as soon as you get the owl, right?"

"Yes, but-". Where is she going with this?

"Because you prefer to get things done immediately without procrastinating, right?"

"Yes, howev-". I need to get out of this...even though she's really nice, I still can't trust her...

"Just like me." she smiled. "So, how about it?"

I'll just tell her that I would rather shop alone, even if it's a lie...This is probably just my overactive imagination acting up again...Or she could really be two-faced... Rosaleya opened her mouth to reply, but closed it for a second Wait, what if I accept someone else's offer and she happens to be shopping on the same day and sees that I was lying? I would totally accept it if Nova and Stephan offered, so how can I tell her? Rosaleya hesitated for a second, trying to find the right words.

Nova had been watching with an amused expression, but now he interjected.

"I would like to take this time to remind you that you did promise me a shopping trip in exchange for your last with, didn't you?" Nova reminded her.

"Oh, I completely forgot about that!" Rosaleya was relieved that Nova had come to her rescue. "Yes, I'll go with you and Stephan." Thank you, Nova! Your lie just saved me from an awkward situation...

"It will be fun." Stephan smiled to Rosaleya, who nodded happily in response. It was the first time she had seen him smile.

"Well, I'll see you later, then." Athena gracefully admitted her defeat with a parting phrase, and left. Stephan won round one, but only because Nova's too cool to compete with, with his jokes and his interesting personality. But when Stephan is alone he won't be able to win against me... she smirked. It's a good thing that Nova didn't gain entrance into this school, because that would've basically guaranteed Stephan's victory.

"Thank you so much." Rosaleya said when Athena was out of sight. "Now, do you guys actually want to go with me, or was that lie just to get Athena to give up?"

"Whichever one you want." Nova smiled. "I didn't really give you a choice a moment ago, but Athena was making you uncomfortable, wasn't she?" he said knowingly. "Now, you can calmly make your choice."

 

[Hikari Chan]

"I understand. However, I will make a couple of things clear. Wearing a mask because only of clothing preference is not enough as an excuse," Elias replied. ...what a bunch of bloody students am I dealing with? First that girl who complains by muttering that there are loopholes in the school rules and now this young man.... "Though, if there's something wrong with your face, you are allowed to keep your mask. At the start of this school year you will meet all the professors and you will see that one of them is wearing an eyepatch because of a serious issue with his eye and therefor he has a reason to wear an eyepatch. The same goes for you, if you have something serious with your face you may keep the mask. You do understand what I mean, don't you? Anyway, as I earlier told you, I have promised you professional secrecy. I will not tell any soul about the content of this meaning or whatever issue you have with your face. The professors will only know that you have to hide your face because you cannot expose it because of health issues. Nothing more. What I will report to the Ministry of Magic on other hand, will only be a list of names of all the students who will be attending Hogwarts this year. So, the ministry of magic will only know your name and be aware of that you are a student at this school. Nothing more. I actually noticed that professor Thorne seemed to doubt your name and you replied her as if you already knew why she would doubt you. I am not accusing you for any lies or doubting your name, but I will tell you this: if you try to hide anything and the truth suddenly came out to everyone, it can be a dire consequence." ...I don't like the fact that random people turned up to attend this meeting without having made an appointment with me. I am worried about Luna. I am worried that our enemies may be lurking somewhere and might try to get revenge to take back everything from us, this school, the ministry of magic...hence I am going to keep extra eyes on Mr. Dantes, Mr. Garnett and miss Lovett...Merlin knows who these three are...I cannot let my guard down.. "Well," Elias smiled with the face that said that he believed Dantes' name and that he did not need to take of his mask because he had his full consent to keep it on at Hogwarts. "I have nothing else to tell you, so if you do not have any further questions you may leave."

Lily stood further away, not caring about listening to the conversation of the others. ...Why the bloody hell do I have to go shopping with this bunch of people... She thought haughtily. ...Is Elias trying to fudge my plans of going shopping together with Pegah and miss Pyrites? Well I cannot tell for sure, because I never told him about my plans recently...anyway whatever, I guess I have to wait and see what these new students desire to do. The one with the mask already decided to shop for school supplies alone. Now I just need to wait and see what the remaining three decides upon...

After a while Lily approached Nova, Stephan and Rosaleya, after that Athena had left and after Rosaleya replied to Nova's last question.

"Excuse me," Lily smiled kindly. "I noticed that the other girl..." She was meaning Athena. "...just left, did she also desire to go shopping for school supplies alone? Well, I was just wondering if you three are going together for shopping in Diagon Alley and if you want me and professor Thorne to accompany you?"

Good day, my lady!" August greeted jovially as soon as they met at their usual meeting place in Knockturn Alley. "I see you have already prepared a portal. I have thought of something really fun we could do together today. We are going to visit haunted muggle houses attractions. Like a tour in the postmortem history.. And at the end of the day we will dine at your favorite restaurant."

 

[Junko Natsumizaka]

"Well," Elias smiled with the face that said that he believed Dantes' name and that he did not need to take off his mask because he had his full consent to keep it on at Hogwarts. "I have nothing else to tell you, so if you do not have any further questions you may leave."

"I have one more question, if you do not mind." the Masked Man replied, reaching for his mask. "Although it is more of a request...Since you have promised professional secrecy, I would like to confirm; I have never stated that there were physical flaws with my countenance..." he removed his mask, revealing his face. "...only that I am said to bare a great likeness to a satanic creature. Don't you agree that my face is monstrous?" He wasn't joking. Quite the opposite; his expression was dead serious, and a bitter smile played on his lips from previous humiliations and traumas. "My request is; please tell everyone whatever reason you deem fitting for my mask's presence, but do not ask me to go without it."

He didn't wait for a reply, and replaced his mask the way it had been. "I appreciate your professionalism and confidentiality. " he stood from his place, and made for the door. He did so at a moderate pace, as if he was expecting Elias to stop him.

"Excuse me," Lily smiled kindly. "I noticed that the other girl..." She was meaning Athena. "...just left, did she also desire to go shopping for school supplies alone? Well, I was just wondering if you three are going together for shopping in Diagon Alley and if you want me and professor Thorne to accompany you?"

"No thank you, young lady." Nova replied kindly for the three of them. "We will all be going together." he clearly meant Rosaleya and Stephan. Stephan didn't even look her way, as if she wasn't there at all. Rosaleya nodded in agreement. "But, thank you very much for your offer." she replied genuinely.

"That sounds lovely." Celeste replied genuinely. "My brother and I were planning on doing something similar for Halloween, and-" Dante shot her a meaningful look. She had been about to invite August as well, but Dante was refusing, and hence Celeste switched subjects immediately. "-and I can't wait to get going. Shall we? Oh, do you need the portal, or are they all close-by?" she asked, looking at the portal and then back at August with a questioning glance. Don't tell me I wasted a wish for this portal for nothing! I have to take Rosaleya to a human book store and make sure that she leaves with at least five items of her choice in return for this portal! Nova's wishes are non-refundable, unless you wish it to be reversed, which costs another...ah, never mind! What's done is done, so worrying about it will just waste time. It's not that I don't like Rosaleya; on the contrary, she seems different from other human girls her age these days...But the mere fact that I wasted a wish is what annoys me. From now on, I will tell August that I have to prepare a portal in advance, and that it...Oh, I'll tell him that it takes a 'large amount of magical energy and concentration to prepare it', and that when it is his turn to control our dates, he has to inform me at least an hour in advance for me to have one prepared. That should do it.