Nana and Nelli arrived to the address, Nana looked at the card once more.
-Can it be here? - she asked out loud, at the sight of the mansion.
-Mama - Nelli said - are we there?
-I guess so honey - Nana answered, and entered, as the outer gates were wide open. The ruby eyed followed her mother, until they reached the main door. Still doubting, Nana knocked twice, and a young brunette girl with golden eyes opened.
-May I help you? - the child asked, Nana thought she looked around Nelli's age.
-Is this the Black's Manor? - asked Nana, taking her daughter's hand nervously.
-Yes, it is here - the golden eyed answered - are you looking for someone, or do you want to have something to eat?
-We are looking for Mr. Roger Black...
-Uncle Roger? - the girl interrupted Nana - I'll take you to him, this way please.
The girl opened the door and let them both pass, then closed after them and led through the corridor at the right of the staircase's right, at the end of the corridor, the girl knocked the door.
-Come on in - a man's voice came from inside. The brunette obeyed and opened, letting the newcomers to pass first.
The man behind the desk looked a second at Nana and her child, sighed and took off his reading glasses.
-Luna, - he said - what does this mean?
-They knocked - the golden eyed said composing a frail smile onto her face.
-Why did you brought them here? - the man insisted.
-The lady said they were looking for you, Uncle. - the kid answered.
The man sighed once more. - Return to your duties, miss - he said, the brunette nodded and left the room.
-So, - Roger Black said once his niece was outside - have a sit.
Both Nana and Nelli obeyed, the ruby eyed looking around as if to engrave the room into her memory.
-May I know, why are you here? - the man said once they had sit.
-Well - Nana answered. - L said we should be able to be safe here.
-I see - Mr. Black said taking a paper from his desk - so you are Nana Oosaki and Annelise Lawliet, am I wrong?
-Not at all. - the rockstar answered. - I suppose L has already talked to you about our arrival.
-Sure he has - Mr. Black left the paper on his desk once again, and stood up - now if you don't mind, come this way please.
He led them through the corridor outside his office and upstairs. until they reached the third floor, and both of them could see the place had still the air of an ancient manor, Roger Black led them to the left and to the end of the corridor, opened the door and let them both pass.
-I guess you already know, L wanted you to have separate rooms, as he seems to notice his dear daughter has been growing really quick, so, this is the girl's room - Mr. Black said - yours madam, is the one next door.
-Thank you for accepting us, Mr. Black - Nana answered.
-On the contrary, Ms. Oosaki, it's my pleasure to help L's family, now - Roger took out two keys from his pockets - these are the keys to your rooms, take good care of them. - He gave the keys to Nana and opened the door - in case you need something, you can look for me in my office, I hope you find our home to your liking.
Then he left, closing the door. Nana looked around in her daughter's room, it seemed to be nice enough, her daughter stared at her.
-What is it, Nelli? - she asked.
-You don't like it - the ruby eyed answered.
-What are you talking about? - Nana said.
-Living here, you don't think it is good. - the girl said standing up - then, why?
-It's a long story, dear - her mother answered - now, let's unpack, alright?
-Sure - Nelli said not-too-convinced, then took her bag and began unpacking.
Downstairs inside the restaurant, the children were already finishing to clean up.
-So, another day ends - Shannon said. - Finally we can go and have some free time!
-You sound like a grandmother, Shannon - Luna said taking some more empty dishes - we work, but it isn't that much, is fun after all.
-Anyway - Kanon said - who were those two, Luna?
The girl shuddered - I don't know - she said - the lady wanted to talk to Uncle Roger...
-Luna - her uncle's voice came from the main hall - can you come here for a second?
-Speaking of the devil - Shannon said.
The golden eyed glared briefly at her - I'm coming - she said and left.
-What's with you, neesan? - Kanon asked.
-I'm tired - Shannon answered, taking the dishes Luna had brought and putting them in their respective shelves.
-Yeah, sure - Near said - and that is why you are being mean, to Luna since I arrived...
-Good one - Kanon said, as his sister glared at both of the boys.
Still listening to her friends' discussion inside the restaurant, Luna went to her uncle's office. "It's always like this when Near comes" she thought a faint smile appearing upon her lips "I just hope Shannon can overcome the fact that Near is a closer friend to me than she is..."
-Where do you think you are going, miss? - her uncle's voice interrupted her train of thought.
The golden eyed turned around, noticing her uncle was in the middle of the main hall, instead of in his office, where she thought her might have been.
-I'm sorry Uncle Roger - she said - I didn't see you.
-Come child - he said, opening the main door.
The brunette nodded and followed her uncle through the passage of the entrance, and through the forest the North Gardens were, the plain field of the West Gardens, and until they reached the tranquility of the South Gardens, where he stopped and looked at his niece.
-I am going to ask you a favor, -Roger said - you know the girl who arrived earlier, don't you?
-The red eyed girl? - Luna asked - I think I led them both to your office Uncle Roger.
-Yes, that one - Mr. Black said - I will need you to take good care of her, as she is a rather fragile being, also, she is the daughter of someone I appreciate, and he asked us to be good to the girl, would you be her friend?
-I guess so... - the brunette answered.
-Just guess? - her uncle replied.
-Alright, alright, I'll try! - Luna answered.
-That's my niece - Mr. Black said - you should now go and try getting to know her better.
-Sure thing, Uncle Roger.
Mr. Black nodded and left, a single thought wondering in his mind: "Would it be right to send such a dangerous being such as her, to L's daughter? I suppose the warmth the child sends will be able to calm the vampire within Luna a little more, if Annelise cannot, who else might?"
Luna stayed some time more in the South Gardens deciding what to do, then started walking without any destiny in mind, though her feet took her to the oldest willow of the East Gardens once again. It might sound strange, but ever since she could remember, she always ended up walking towards that tree, as if it called her, or offered her security, since the golden eyed tended to feel safe behind the willow's hanging branches. Automatically without actually thinking on what she was doing, she moved the lowest leaves and entered the green sanctuary of the willow tree, she sat next to the trunk, in a hole that was naturally formed by both the trunk and the roots of the tree.
"That girl seemed to be sad for some reason" she thought "I wonder, if she really needs to be taken care of..." slowly, and as a soft wind moved the trees branches, the brunette fell asleep, letting herself to reason in dreams what she should do, in her eternal refugee.
Nelli finished to unpack her things, and knowing her mother would give no argument against it, she decided to explore a little the place.
-Who are you? - a voice interrupted her as she was walking through the second floor's hallways.
The ruby eyed turned and saw the guardian ghost of the place, her wavy greenish brown hair floating in a non-existing wind as well as her white soaked-in-water dress.
-I'm Nelli - the child answered. - I arrived today, do you live here, miss?
Banshee smiled gently at the girl's occurrence, her pale blueish skin glowing a little in the afternoon light.
-You can't say a non-living, continues its life, Nelli-chan. - she said - were you looking for something?
-I'm exploring - the black haired answered - what's your name, miss?
-I'm Banshee...
-Like those creatures that used to tell the families when a death was going to happen? - the ruby eyed interrupted her.
-Something like that... - the ghost answered.
-Is someone going to die, Banshee-san? - Nelli asked.
-No, Nelli-chan, no one is going to die.
-I see... - the girl answered - then, Banshee-san, would you guide me through this place?
-Of course - the ghost materialized a little more, and opened a passage on the nearest wall. - this way, Nelli-chan, please.
-Okay! - the ruby eyed said, going through the opening of the hidden passage.
Banshee smiled and closed the passage after Nelli, appearing right after inside it, letting out a blueish-green light from her body.
-Follow me. - she said, as she began leading the way.
They walked through a lot of different corridors, every single one of them leading to a different part of the mansion, and none of them had the slightest piece of light, so, Banshee used her own as a lantern for the girl to see. "Just as when Luna-chan found the passage of her room" Banshee thought as Nelli walked next to her interested in all of the passages.
-You were right, Banshee-san! - the girl said when they finally came out of the hidden corridors. - is a lot easier to explore the house using the passages.
-Please, do call me just Banshee, Nelli-chan. - the ghost answered.
-I'll try... - the ruby eyed answered.
-I know you will do great. - Banshee answered. - Where are you going now?
-I want to visit the gardens - Nelli said.
-I see - Banshee said - but you will need a guide there, let's see... you can look for Luna-chan
-Who is Luna-chan? - the black haired asked.
-She is a good friend - the ghost answered - I know you will like her.
-Ah.
-I'd take you to her, but I have some things to do... Ask anyone downstairs, they must know where she is...
-Thank you Banshee! - Nelli answered, running downstairs, and tripping on one, the ghost quickly reacted and stopped her fall.
-You should be more careful, Nelli-chan - she said.
-You sound like Nii-chan - the ruby eyed said, a sad tone in her voice, with Banshee's help, she stood up.
Banshee smiled - I'm sure you will see him again, Nelli-chan. Just trust your destiny.
The ruby eyed nodded and continued walking downstairs, more carefully this time. Banshee sighed at the sight of the child. "Poor thing" the ghost thought "dragged away from the people she loves, from the country she lived in, just as Luna-chan, there are bound to be closest friends, and with time," the image of a red haired boy that came from Nelli's memories and her own predictions "they will be closer than possible..."
When Luna woke up sun had already set, if there was something she liked the most of her refugee in the Eastern Gardens, was that Uncle Roger had never put lamps on its terrain. She stood up, and stretched, another good thing of her beloved willow tree, she always rested better there, than in her own room.
-Thank you for taking care of me again - the brunette said to the three, as she walked outside of its green leaves barrier.
She walked back to the mansion, unconsciously evading the ponds in her way, when she arrived to the wall, she opened the hidden passage and entered it, closing it behind her, as usual. She followed the corridor and in a cross point she took the one leading to the main hall. At the end of which, she came out under the main stairs, and closed the passage again.
-Young Mistress! - one of the maids called her, the brunette glared at her when she mentioned the title, the maid didn't noticed and approached hugging her. - We were so worried, where were you?
-Outside - Luna answered.
-Young Mistress, you know you can't go out like that, what would happen if someone came in and kidnapped you?
-I believe Uncle Roger wouldn't mind that much - the golden eyed answered.
-What a way of thinking, Miss - the maid answered - come, let's get you some tea, and clean clothes.
-I'm fine like this.
-Do you know who Luna-chan is? - the voice of a girl came from the other side of the hall. the brunette looked the way it came, and saw the child who had come, talking to Kanon.
-That is me - she said, freeing herself from the maid's grasp, and walking towards them. - Who are you?
-I saw you earlier! - the ruby eyed exclaimed - You are that kid who led us to that man's office!
-Luna Selene Helena Black, at your service - Luna answered bowing - but you haven't yet answered my question.
-I'm Annelise Lawliet - the other girl answered - why do you act like that?
-That is how I was taught - the brunette said. - were you looking for me, miss Lawliet?
-You can call me Nelli - the ruby eyed answered. - and yes, Banshee told me you could lead me through the Gardens.
-I see - the golden eyed said - I will lead you through them, but today not, sun has already set.
-Ok! - Nelli said - I'll see you tomorrow then.
-Sure, see you then Nelli. - the brunette answered.
The ruby eyed, smiled brightly, and ran upstairs, falling at least once.
"Such a noisy girl" Luna thought "but I believe she means no harm to anyone"
-What was that? - Kanon asked, calling Luna's attention back to Earth.
-What was what? - the golden eyed answered.
-The bowing and the complete name presentation, Luna - the blue eyed said.
-I wanted to act that way - the brunette answered.
-Yeah, sure - Kanon said. - anyway, what did your uncle told you?
-That's none of your business - the golden eyed said, starting her way upstairs, Kanon followed her.
-Then why did you disappear through the whole afternoon? - he asked, not willing to let go of the issue.
-Personal stuff - the girl answered.
-What kind of stuff?
-I fell asleep in the gardens...
-Again? You know Near will be worried about it...
-Yes, so? it's not as if I was his little sister...
-You don't get it, do you? - Kanon said stopping.
-Get what? - the golden eyed asked, stopping and staring at Kanon's eyes.
-Forget it - Kanon said, as he saw she had no idea what he was talking about.
-Luna! - Near exclaimed, when they finally reached the second floor - You are finally awake!
-Yup! - the brunette answered smiling. - I couldn't sleep forever after all.
-Wait - Kanon said - You already knew where she was?
-Of course I did!- the silver haired answered. - I would be dumb if I didn't.
-Alright - Kanon said - I'm going to my room then, see you tomorrow guys.
-Sure - both answered.
-Oh, by the way - Luna said - tell Shannon I won't be at work tomorrow!
-Yeah, I will. - Kanon answered.
-Sorry for not spending the afternoon with you, Near. - Luna said.
-Don't worry, - the albino said - I like watching you sleep.
-You idiot! - the girl punched him in the arm playfully, as if she was angry.
-My fault! - Near said - I was looking for you in the Eastern Gardens, I had to see if you were really there.
-I know you enough, to forsee that, Near - the girl answered. - And of course I was at the Eastern Gardens, where more could I be?
-Maybe in the passages - the albino said - or in your room...
-Alright I got it - Luna said - you know me...
Near smiled - So, why are you not working tomorrow?
-I'm giving, the new girl a tour, want to help?
-No. - the albino answered - you know I'm not that sociable, beside, I believe they will need my help at the restaurant.
-If you say so... - Luna said - see you tomorrow then.
She kissed his cheeks and hurried to her room, Near looked at her door startled and covered the place she had kissed, as if not wanting the feeling to fade.
Nelli woke up, first not understanding why she was in another place, then everything came slowly back to her memory, and sadness filled her heart as tears found their way to her ruby colored eyes.
-Niichan - she whispered, remembering the soft last kiss he had given her. She stood up and began dressing, when she was done, she went out of her room and put her key in her jeans' pockets, then walked downstairs.
-Good morning, Nelli! - a girl's voice interrupted her thoughts when she entered the restaurant.
The ruby eyed turned in the direction of the voice and saw the girl who had welcomed them the day before.
-Luna-chan - Nelli answered - good morning.
-Just Luna is fine, most people call me so - the brunette answered - are you hungry?
Nelli nodded, as she couldn't find words yet in her throat.
-Come, Nelli, - the golden eyes said - let's see if Hanna can give us some cookies.
-Sure - the ruby eyed answered.
The brunette led her through the mostly empty restaurant and into the kitchen.
-Hanna - Luna said as she walked in. The young woman inside looked at them both, as Nelli fell on her feet after the door closed. The brunette turned around and helped her to stand up - you should be more careful Nelli - she said smiling.
-Young Mistress? - Hanna said once she noticed who were there, Nelli saw who the golden eyed's smiled erased as she heard the title - Who is your friend?
-She is Nelli - Luna answered - just arrived yesterday. Can you give us cookies, Hanna?
-I don't know, Young Mistress - the maid answered - I don't think Master would like it if you were eating sweets instead of breakfast...
-Please? - the brunette insisted, this time she put her hands together as if pleading.
-Alright, - Hanna accepted - I will give you cookies.
-Great! - the golden eyed said. - What are your favorite cookies, Nelli?
-Chocolate ones - the ruby eyed answered.
-Are you really ok, Nelli? - Luna asked - yesterday you were so cheery...
-I'm fine - Nelli answered - is just that... I miss Niichan and Daddy.
-Oh - Luna said, as Hanna gave her a jar with chocolate cookies.- Thank you Hanna!
The brunette opened the jar without effort, and offered it to the black haired, the ruby eyed stared at her, not knowing what to do.
-Take some, Nelli - Luna said, smiling kindly at her.
Nelli didn't knew if it was her hunger, the smell of the cookies, or the kind smile on the brunette's face, but she took a cookie from the jar, and smiled too.
-Thank you - the ruby eyed said.
-That's better - the golden eyed said, her smile broadening - I bet your father and brother would like you to be smiling, wherever they are.
Nelli bit her cookie, thinking about what Luna had just said. "That's truth" she thought "Niichan and Daddy don't like to see me cry..."
-Come, Nelli - Luna said, the jar of cookies now closed but still in her hands. - I said I was taking you to the gardens, didn't I?
-Yup! - Nelli answered - Let's go.
Luna opened the door, letting Nelli to pass first, and closing it after she had came out, they walked out of the restaurant, but instead of leading to the main doors, Luna made her way to the space downstairs.
-Wait, Luna - Nelli said, the brunette stopped and looked at her. - Aren't we going to the gardens?
-Yes - the golden eyed answered - but if we go through the doors, they will notice I brought this with me - she pointed to the cookie jar she was still holding - besides, I like this way better.
Luna opened the hidden passage under the stairs, and let Nelli to pass first, then when inside too, and closed the hidden panel.
-Are you scared of darkness, Nelli? - Luna asked, since she felt a sudden pull on her arm as the passage was filled with darkness.
-Ehm... just a little - the ruby eyed said.
-Alright - Luna said, - let's see if this works, - she took something from the floor and pushed a button, a flash of light rushed from it, illuminating the passage, the golden eyed felt as the pull loosened, and turned to look at Nelli. - Better?
The ruby eyed nodded, staring at the light coming from the lantern in the brunette's hand.
-Follow me - Luna said smiling.
They started walking, Luna trying to spot the crossing points they had to take.
-Tell me about you, Nelli, where did you live? - Luna said suddenly.
-I used to live in Japan with Mama and Niichan - the ruby eyed said - at times Daddy went and visited, but...
-But?
-Well... Daddy took Niichan recently, and said that Mama and I should move here...
-So that's how you came here...
-Yeah...
-How is Japan? - Luna asked.
-It is really beautiful - Nelli said - we used to live in Tokyo, and it is a big city, but every once in a while, and specially when Daddy came over, we went to visit other places in the country.
-That is nice - Luna said.
-Yeah, I miss it.
-This way - Luna said changing the path, Nelli followed.
-Why do you wear that ribbon? - Nelli asked since she had seen the same thing the day before.
-This? - Luna answered taking a hanging part of it, Nelli nodded - I know it is important for me to wear it, but... I can't remember the reason.
-Why? - the ruby eyed asked.
-I don't know - the brunette said.
-Let's see... - Nelli said - maybe is because your last name is Black! - she exclaimed.
-Maybe you are right - Luna answered smiling. - Oh, here we are - she said noticing the end of their path.
The brunette left the lantern on the floor, and opened the pannel.
-Come - she said letting Nelli to pass first, the turning the lantern off, and going outside herself closing the hidden passage.
The East Gardens were different than Nelli had imagined, something like a swamp, but not so humid, and Annelise Lawliet looked around in awe.
-These are the Eastern Gardens - Luna said - definitely my favorite.
-How many gardens are there? - asked Nelli.
-Four, as well as cardinal points, and each of them are different.
-Great! - Nelli exclaimed.
-Come, Nelli - the brunette said starting to walk - I'll show you around.
The ruby eyed followed the girl, through the narrow paths between the ponds, trying not to fall as she knew her mom would make a fuss out of it, the brunette led her to the South, and Annelise saw how it suddenly changed from the place full of ponds and greenery, to something that seemed a park, with well-cared bushes, roses, and benches all over.
-This place is beautiful! - she exclaimed.
Her guide turned and smiled at her.
-These are the South Gardens - the brunette said, - my mother's favorites.
-Really? - Nelli asked - I can see why!
-Want to spend some time here? - asked the golden eyed. - we are not in a rush whatsoever.
-We really can? - the black haired asked, her eyes sparkling in hope.
The brunette nodded, and Nelli smiled broadly.
-Great! - the ruby eyed exclaimed.
Luna approached one of the nearby benches and sat onto it, while Nelli ran around and explored everything in the limits of the gardens. The brunette looked up to the always cloudy sky of her home. "How would it feel to be with your family?" she thought "Will I ever be able to spend more than just a couple of days at my parents' home, or am I bound to stay in this place forever?" She was so deep in her thoughts, that she couldn't hear the black haired calling her.
-Luna - she said now touching the brunette's shoulder.
-Yes? - the golden eyed answered still absentmindedly.
-Are you ok? - the ruby eyed asked, this time truly calling the other girl's attention, since she turned her her head towards her.
-I'm fine - she answered smiling.
-You looked lost back then - Nelli said somewhat worried.
-I'm alright - the brunette said standing up. - are you ready to continue, Nelli?
-Can we come back here later? - the ruby eyed asked.
-Sure - Luna answered - you now live here, you can come and go as you wish inside the estate.
-Then let's go! - Nelli exclaimed taking the brunette's hand and pulling her, some second later she stopped - you shall lead, I don't know my way around here yet.
-Yep - Luna answered as she contained a laugh - this way, Nelli.
The brunette led her through the South Gardens, in west direction.
-Ne, Luna - the ruby eyed said, her guide stopped. - I've never met your parents, where are they?
-They are far from here - the brunette answered.
-They don't live here?
Luna shook her head slowly as tears began to fill her golden eyes.
-We better continue - said the ruby eyed.
-You are right - Luna answered, as she continued to lead the path.
Soon, they reached the plain that the West Gardens were.
-What do you use this for? - the black haired asked.
-Uncle Roger uses this whenever he wants to watch a sports match, or practice a sport himself, can you see the white marks on the grass? - the brunette said.
-Yeah.
-Those are the marks, Uncle Roger puts whenever there will be a match, - Luna said - when I was little, we used to come here quite often, but i only learn to play volleyball, since I didn't like other sports.
-Can you practice soccer here? - Nelli asked.
-Sure thing - the brunette answered.
-Niichan would really like this place! - the ruby eyed exclaimed.
-What does your brother practices? - the golden eyed asked.
-Soccer - Nelli answered - he is really good at it.
-I see - Luna said - shall we continue?
-Yup.
The brunette led through the plain, and though it seemed long, since nothing but the marks could be seen, they soon entered a forest.
-What is this place? - asked Nelli.
-These are the North Gardens - Luna answered - don't go too far, or you might get lost.
-I can see that - the black haired said.
Luna led through the forest, with agility, but also slowly, waiting for Nelli every once in a while, until they reached the main path leading to the principal door of the manor.
-And here we are - Luna said. - The Heart of the North Gardens, looks somewhat familiar, Nelli?
-This is where I came in yesterday - Nelli said. - Does it all surround the mansion?
-Yup - the golden eyed said - I will give you a simple map of it in the afternoon if you like.
-That'd be nice - Nelli said.
-So, where do you want to go now? - the brunette asked.
-Can we go back to the South Gardens? - the ruby eyed said.
-Sure - Luna said - would you mind some darkness?
-I guess I can't help it...
Her guide smiled. - Come this way - she said, leading directly under the stairs of the principal door, the brunette opened another hidden passage and let Nelli to pass in.
-There were short cuts? - the black haired asked.
-Yes. - the brunette said.
-Why didn't we go this way? - the ruby eyed pouted.
-I thought you might enjoy walking through the gardens - the golden eyed answered.
-You are a meanie - Nelli said, going inside the path.
-If you say so - Luna said closing the entrance after herself.
***Some Months Later***
-Are you sure I must tell Nelli-chan about it, Dad? - Hiroto asked as both L and himself were driven through the streets of a small English town.
-Only if you want to - L answered. He knew that day would be one of the saddest he would ever see, and was trying to mentally prepare himself to see his beloved daughter's crying face, but he also knew that this decision couldn't be changed, and even if the red haired boy sitting next to him would go back to the original orphanage, L had made a deal with its directive, telling that he would be still his adoptive father, and as such take financially care of him.
-There it is - L said pointing through the window to a big cube, some streets away from them. - I'm sure your mother and sister are waiting for us, right now.
-Luna! - the ruby eyed exclaimed as she entered the restaurant in a hyperactive rush. - Today is the day! Niichan is coming!
-You have been telling me the whole bloody week, Nelli - the brunette answered walking in from the kitchen.
-See? - Nana said coming from the main hall - I told you, Nelli-chan.
-I'm so happy - Nelli said ignoring her mother and friend. - it's been really long since I last saw Niichan.
-I know - Luna said sitting at one of the empty tables, and eating a cookie. - want some?
-Thank you - Nelli said taking one of the chocolate ones and eating it.
-When are they arriving, Nana? - asked Shannon coming out of the kitchen followed by her brother.
-They should be here any minute - the rockstar answered. - L called yesterday and said they were already on track.
Had Nana just finished speaking, when someone knocked the door.
-I'll open - Luna said, standing up and walking already to the main door
-I'm coming with you - Nelli said following her.
The brunette opened the door, and saw a black messy haired man, that somehow reminded her of Nelli and a red haired boy, a little older than herself.
-May I...
-Daddy! Niichan! - Nelli exclaimed behind her, hugging the black haired man.
-It's been a while, Nelli - L said, hugging his daughter. - My! To actually tell you have grown in this past few months.
-I'm glad to see you too, Nelli-chan - the red haired boy said, when his sister hugged him.
-And you must be Miss Black - L said calling the brunette's attention, the girl nodded - You have grown quite a bit, Luna.
-Sir? - the golden eyed said confused.
-Long story, Luna - L said. - Anyway, is your uncle here?
-Of course - the brunette answered almost mechanically - may I lead you to him?
-Sure. - L said - I'll be back in a while, kids.
When they glanced to where L's children had been, they noticed they had already gone somewhere else. Luna shrugged, knowing Nelli, they could be anywhere by now.
-Follow me - the brunette said.
She lead L to her uncle's office, the place he seemed to live in now, some kind of a sanctuary, Banshee had called it once.
-Come on in - Mr. Black's voice came from the other side of the door when Luna knocked it.
The brunette opened the door, and let L pass first.
-Good morning, Roger - the black haired said.
-Mr. Lawliet! - answered Luna's uncle standing up - What a wonderful surprise!
-Not so much of a surprise - L said - I remember sending out a note telling we were coming.
-We? - Mr. Black asked.
-My son and me - the black haired answered.
-Oh, sure I had forgotten about him, so where is the boy now? - Roger said inviting L with a gesture to sit.
Luna decided she was of no use there now, and quietly left the room as L answered, closing the door after herself.
"There is something wrong around here" she thought as she walked back to the restaurant "Something will end in tragedy, I can feel it"
-What took you so long to come? - asked Nelli as she lead her brother through the passage to the South Gardens.
-Dad didn't let me out that much - Hiroto answered.
-Anyway, I'm glad you came. - the ruby eyed said - I was expecting this day to come since Daddy announce it, you should have seen it, Niichan, I was driving crazy most of the people here.
-I can believe so. - her brother said. - So, where are we going?
-To one of my favorite spots! - the black haired answered, finding the end of the passage.
As Nelli opened the passage, and once Hiroto got used to the light again, he saw the rose garden and walked out of the hidden path. His sister closed the passage behind them, and followed her brother through the many paths of the park-like garden.
-It is indeed beautiful, Nelli-chan! - The red haired exclaimed.
-I knew you would like it, Niichan - the girl answered smiling. Then she noticed the shadow present in her brother's eyes - Is everything ok?
Hiroto shook his head as if to send away a thought. - Yes, don't worry - he said smiling.
-How long are you going to stay, Niichan? - the ruby eyed asked.
-We are leaving this afternoon - her brother answered.
-That soon? Why? - Nelli asked, the red haired couldn't bear to see the pain in her eyes.
-That'd be because...
-Nelli-chan! - Banshee interrupted flying to the ruby eyed, and bumping onto her. - You mother is looking for you, where were you?
-I was with Niichan... - the ruby eyed answered, pointing to the surprised red haired boy.
-My apologies - Banshee rushed to her feet - I didn't see you youngster, my name is Banshee, and have been taking care of Nelli-chan for the last moths, I assume you are her older brother, Hiroto - the boy just nodded, the ghost smiled - I'm so glad! Nelli-chan has been talking quite a lot about you... My, my! I see my visions weren't that wrong after all! - she said flying around the boy - You are just as I had seen, anyway, I will go tell Nana-san you are with your brother, Nelli-chan, enjoy yourselves, and welcome to the Black's Manor, Hiroto-kun!
Having said this, Banshee vanished into green mist.
-Is she always like this? - the boy finally asked after the ghost had disappeared.
-Mostly - his sister answered. - So, you were saying?
-Well, there's some things father wants to do before...
-Nelli-chan! - Kanon came running from the West garden.
Nelli rolled her eyes annoyed, wishing for a moment she had a good hiding place.
-What is it, Kanon? - asked the ruby eyed.
-Nee-san says she is going to make cookies today, and asks if you want to be her judge - the blue eyed said.
-Tell her I will help - the black haired said.
-Thank you, Nelli-chan! - Kanon exclaimed before heading back to the mansion.
-I think we should go somewhere else... - the girl said once, Kanon was out of sight. - Come! - She said taking Hiroto's hand and leading him back to the entrance of the hidden passage.
Her brother followed, beginning to feel guilty, for what he knew he must tell her.
Once Nelli opened the entrance, and they had gone inside, he stopped walking.
-Are you ok, Niichan? - the girl asked.
-There's something I have to tell you, Nelli-chan - the red haired said finally.
-What is it? - the ruby eyed asked, pointing the flashlight she always carried with herself inside the passages to her brothers face, the boy covered his eyes from the intense light, and sat onto the floor sighing.
-This might be the last time we see each other, Nelli-chan - he said.
-Why are you saying so, Niichan? - Nelli asked.
-Because, I am going back to the orphanage in Japan - Hiroto said.
-No - the girl's voice nothing but a whisper, intensified in the silence of the almost empty passage. - You can't go, Niichan - Nelli's eyes were full of tears as she spoke - You can't go back there!
-I have no choice - the red haired said standing up - Dad said I must go there for some time.
-How long? - the ruby eyed asked, her brother looked at her as if he hadn't understood the question - How long are you going to be there?
-I don't know - the green eyed said, his answer almost silent - I don't know how many time I will be there.
-This can't be happening! - the girl exclaimed.
-Nelli-chan, please listen - her brother took her arm, trying to calm her down.
-No! - the girl yelled, freeing herself from him. - I never thought you would do this, Niichan! I... I loved you!
Saying such, the girl ran away through the passage, crying and leaving him in the deep dark of the passages.
-Nelli-chan, I'm sorry - Hiroto whispered to the emptiness of the paths, his voice resounding on the walls as the sad echo of his own heart.
The boy started walking, trying to follow the same path his sister had lead him through before.
Nelli ran, she didn't care where she was leading, she just ran away, from her troubling heart, from the truth her brother had just told her, from her own sadness and despair, when the wall blocked her way, she opened the entrance and continued running, she didn't stop running until she was already at the street and sat onto the sidewalk, sobbing.
A passing boy, with light-blue long hair saw her, having been taught a lady wouldn't be left alone, and specially with most curiosity in the sight of such a beautiful and sad girl, he approached her.
-What is wrong? - the boy asked.
-None of your business - the black haired girl answered.
-You can tell me if you want - he said sitting next to her on the sidewalk. Seeing she was still not eager to talk, he decided to introduce himself - My name is Edgar, who are you, young lady?
-I'm Annelise - she answered harshly.
-Annelise... - the blue haired repeated - it is a beautiful name, just as you - he smiled.
-What do you want? - Nelli asked.
-I want to know why are you crying - Edgar answered.
-Why do you want to know? - the ruby eyed said, finally looking at him.
-Because no gentleman should let any lady on her own, specially, not one as beautiful as you - he said.
-If I tell you, will you leave? - the girl asked.
-It will depend - the boy said.
The girl sighed - I will tell you, but you must not tell anyone, ok? - she said.
-I promise - Edgar answered.
Luna was walking through the passages, somewhat bored, somewhat worried, she had not to work that day, and her previous encounter with L and his children had left her with an uneasy feeling. Suddenly, she heard someone sobbing inside the passages.
"Is Nelli alright?" she thought as she walked to the place she heard the sound coming, to her surprise, there was the red haired boy she had seen earlier, sitting onto the wooden floor of the passage; careful and silent, she approached him.
-Is everything fine? -she asked once she was in front of him. the boy just shook his head as answer. - Want to talk about it? - the golden eyed asked, sitting next to him.
-I don't think I should - the red haired answered.
-Why do you think so? - the brunette said.
-Because... - the boy hesitated, knowing he had not any good excuse - it is a long story.
-I have the whole day - the girl said. - By the way, my name is Luna Black.
-I am Hiroto Kiyama - the red haired answered. - have we met before, miss Black?
-Luna, please do call me Luna - the golden eyed said - and no, I don't think we have met before, though your face seems familiar.
-How do you know of this place, m... Luna-chan? - Hiroto asked.
-Well, that would be because I live here, perhaps? - the girl answered smiling. - So, why were you so sad before?
-Are you not telling anyone about it? - the green eyed asked.
-You can have my word on it - the brunette answered.
By the time Nelli finished telling her story to Edgar, she was crying again, and the light-blue haired was hugging her.
-Now, now - he said - I believe you two will meet again.
-Are you sure? - the girl asked between sobs.
-Totally - Edgar answered - there's no way destiny would separate siblings, even if they are not blood related.
-But does it has to be? - the girl said - Niichan and I used to be so close...
-The fact you will be in different parts of the world doesn't mean your hearts will be - the boy said - you have always carried you brother in your heart, and I'm sure your brother has you in his heart.
-How can you be so sure, Edgar? - Nelli asked - what if Niichan forgets about me?
-He will not - the blue haired answered - he has not forgotten about you even once, has he?
-No, but...
-Then you needn't worry, Annelise, he will not forget about you, never.
-You are a good friend, Edgar - said the girl. - I think I should go back now.
She stood up and smiled at Edgar, then walked back to the mansion.
The boy stared at her, until she had disappeared from his sight, then stood up as well, and continued on his way home. "If she lives there" he thought "I wonder if one day I can go visit"
Hiroto told his story, maintaining his emotions under control the most he could, yet he knew he was falling apart inside.
-And that's how I ended up here - he finished.
-I see - the brunette said - so Nelli felt deeply sad because you are going back to the orphanage.
-Yeah - the green eyed said staring into the darkness of the passage.
-I think you two will be fine. - Luna said.
-Why do you think that? - the red haired asked.
-Because you two like each other, and won't forget of what you have lived together that easily - the girl answered.
-You really think that? - Hiroto asked.
-Definitely - she said nodding.
-Then, - the boy said - can I ask you a favor?
-Of course - the golden eyed answered.
-Would you take care of Nelli-chan while I am away, Luna-chan? - the red haired asked.
-Sure thing - the girl answered smiling.
-Promise it - the green eyed said taking both of her hands.
-I swear onto myself that I shall protect your sister - the brunette said, a faint blush appearing onto her cheeks at the boy's touch.
-Thank you, Luna-chan - he said - thank you for everything.
-Nevermind - the golden eyed said, she stood up. - I believe you don't know your way through here yet, do you, Hiroto?
The boy shook his head. The girl smiled.
-Come - she said - I'll lead you out of this maze.
She helped the boy to stand up.
-How do you find your way in all this darkness? - the red haired asked.
-I don't know - Luna shrugged - I'm used to it, I suppose, just stay close to me, and you won't get lost.
They walked through the passages of the second floor, and most of the passages of the first floor as well, until Luna finally found the entrance of the main door.
-I will help you look for your sister hereby, - she said - it should be easy, she would be looking for you.
Hadn't she finished speaking, when the entrance opened, and Nelli rushed in stopping the second she saw them both.
-Told you it was going to be easy - the golden eyed smiled.
-Luna, what are you doing here? - asked the black haired.
-I found him lost in the second floor - the brunette pointed to Hiroto. - I thought I should bring him back.
-Thank you, Luna-chan - the boy said.
-No problem - the golden eyed answered. - good luck, and see you later. - she said before walking out through the entrance and disappearing beyond it.
-I'm sorry for running away, Niichan - the black haired said, once they were alone.
-Don't worry - the green eyed said - it was my fault after all.
That very afternoon, the siblings bid farewell from each other, until destiny could lead them together once more.
Two years later, Annelise Lawliet was bitten by a vampire when she was out in the mansion's gardens after sunset, her mother found her, and took her back, the child bit her mother the moment she gained consciousness. For years, they were the only ones who knew of this event.
My Bad! This was one heck of a special. I hope everyone enjoyed it, and I will announce that I shall continue with the main story in short. Cookies for all of my faithful readers! Thank you for all of your help, and please, Rate and Review.