"Oh High One, I come with my reports," a cloaked figure said, kneeling in front of another cloaked figure.

    "Very well. How goes it with the Chosen One?"

    "He is well. I have managed for him to fall for me."

    The second drew the first close. "But you do not return the feelings, of course?"

    The first smiled. "But of course not. There is only one in my life to play that roll, my High One."

    "Please, call me Tom."

    The first tried it out. "Alright, Tom."

    The second bestowed upon the first one of the rare smiles. "I have not been called that for a long time. You mean much to me, Lily dear. You know that."

    "Of course, Tom, and I return the feelings."

    Tom held Lily close to him. "I am glad of that, very glad," he breathed, closing his eyes, content.