The large back courtyard of Astarion’s estate looked different this evening than it usually did. The tall stone walls entwined with ancient ivy seemed to retreat into the shadows, leaving space for light and warmth. Dozens of magical lanterns hung in the air as if frozen in a graceful dance—transparent spheres glowing softly. They swayed on invisible currents of air, bathing the courtyard alternately in golden and pale blue light, as though stars had descended from the heavens to watch the celebration up close.

  At the center of the courtyard, paved with carefully tended stone, stood a long table of dark wood covered with a luxurious white tablecloth. Its surface bowed under the abundance of dishes: succulent roasted meats, platters of fragrant fruit, exquisite salads, and delicacies scented with spices, awakening the appetite even before the first sip of wine. Crystal goblets reflected the glow of the lanterns, as if playing with their glimmers, while silver cutlery shone with a pristine luster.

  Along the edges of the courtyard, among flowerbeds and decorative shrubs, small fountains murmured softly—their thin streams caught the light and scattered it into tiny sparks. Everything around seemed harmonious, solemn, and at the same time cozy. The festive dinner breathed with the warmth of a family gathering, even within the walls of the ancient estate.

  In the celebratory glow of the magical lanterns, the guests gathered in the courtyard looked as though they had stepped out of a living painting. Each drew attention in their own way, and together they formed a refined palette of colors, shades, and personalities.

  Elizabeth, as always, stayed true to her style. Her long dress was a deep red, but this time restrained, without defiance, with elegant lines and a light train. The rich shade harmonized with her hair, emphasizing her composed beauty and nobility.

  Emma chose a delicate light-blue dress that softly reflected the lantern light and suited her fair hair perfectly. The airy fabric fell in gentle waves, creating a sense of lightness and ease.

  Gabriel looked serious yet balanced. A dark green shirt and black trousers lent his appearance restraint. His posture carried a sense of composure and quiet confidence that even the festive decorations could not conceal.

  Alex and Adam appeared dressed in classic white shirts and black trousers. The simplicity of their attire only emphasized their natural confidence. Alex, with his ever-calm expression, seemed both a part of the gathering and someone standing slightly apart, while Adam radiated warmth and openness, instantly making him the center of attention among acquaintances.

  Aria looked like a true young lady. She wore an elegant dress in a soft lilac shade, adorned with delicate lace along the edges. Her dark hair fell in loose curls over her shoulders, and she herself radiated lively energy and lightness that perfectly matched her appearance. Damian, meanwhile, had chosen a strict black suit with silver inlays on the lapels. The contrast of colors made his look more mature and solid than usual, fitting well with his serious gaze.

  Astarion, the host of the evening, wore dark blue trousers and a white shirt. Restrained yet elegant, he radiated the confidence of the true master of the estate. His appearance was simple, but it was precisely in this simplicity that its perfection lay.

  But the most glances were drawn to Luna. Tall and statuesque, she commanded attention the moment one looked at her. Long snow-white hair cascaded down to her waist, softly reflecting the glow of the magical spheres. Her deep violet eyes shone with warmth and, at the same time, a mysterious depth, while a dress of the same violet shade perfectly accentuated her graceful figure. There was something majestic and tender in her presence—strength and kindness woven into a single image.

  Standing nearby were also Aria’s and Damian’s parents, the Ravenford couple. Their appearance could not go unnoticed. The father, Arthur Ravenford, was a tall man with short red hair and light stubble that added to his masculinity. His outfit consisted of a deep dark-gray jacket and a wine-red vest, which together created an image of reliability and strength. The mother, Celeste Ravenford, by contrast, radiated warmth. Her orange dress seemed to gather the colors of the evening sun, and her wavy brown hair fell softly over her shoulders. Her smile was calm, yet sincere and open.

  Together, they formed a picture where colors, characters, and moods intertwined, as though this were not merely a celebration, but a symbol of families and friends coming together.

  While conversations buzzed around him, Alex found himself alone for a moment, casting his gaze over the entire courtyard. The magical lanterns continued to flicker above the long table, casting soft reflections on the guests, and the night garden around them looked almost enchanted.

  Alex noticed a familiar figure heading his way. He raised a hand in an easy greeting and smiled lightly.

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  “Good to see you, Astarion,” he said without formality, as though greeting an old acquaintance.

  Astarion responded with a slight smile, stopping beside him.

  “And I’m glad to see you too, Alex. I hope my sudden invitation didn’t throw off your training schedule.”

  “No. I managed to finish them before evening.”

  “Good…” the count replied quietly, and a brief pause hung between them. Then, inclining his head slightly, he continued, “You know, this evening became possible only thanks to you.”

  For the first time, his voice allowed the steel of restraint to slip. Notes of gratitude rang out clearly, sincerely.

  “Thank you for giving my wife back to me… and Adam his mother. I will be eternally in your debt. You may come to me anytime, with any request.”

  Alex smiled gently and shook his head.

  “What debts can there be between old friends?” he replied calmly. “For me, the greatest reward is already seeing your family together again. I need nothing more.”

  Astarion lifted his gaze, and a barely noticeable shadow flickered in his eyes—as though he did not wish to accept the refusal.

  “Is there truly nothing at all I can do to repay you?” he asked, almost pleading.

  Alex looked aside and paused for a moment on Adam’s figure, laughing together with Aria and Damian.

  “There is one thing,” he said slowly. “Two weeks ago, Adam told me that in two months he will finish his training with Professor Light. After that, his education is supposed to be taken over by you, if he proves himself worthy.”

  Astarion listened attentively, his gaze also drifting toward his son.

  “I have no doubt that he will manage,” Alex continued. “So if you insist on granting my request… teach him everything you know yourself. Become the best teacher he could have.”

  The count returned his voice to its usual calm, but now there was a special weight in its evenness.

  “If this is your wish… then I will give it my utmost effort, both as a father and as a mentor. I will make Adam into a warrior worthy of standing beside you.”

  He looked away for a moment, then sighed lightly.

  “It seems I’m not the only one who wanted to speak with you,” he added, noticing movement behind Alex. “We’ll be able to continue later.”

  The count gave a brief bow and moved toward Arthur and Gabriel.

  Alex turned his gaze back. Luna was approaching him. She smiled warmly, and in the flickering light her snow-white hair shimmered like moonlit spider silk. Her deep violet eyes met his bright crimson ones, and Alex felt a faint wave of satisfaction somewhere deep inside.

  Luna approached at an unhurried pace, her long violet dress swaying softly with each step. Stopping before Alex, she inclined her head slightly, warmth flashing in the depths of her violet eyes.

  “I’m glad to finally meet you, Alex. It is a great honor for me,” she said in a melodic voice.

  Alex inclined his head in return, choosing a restrained tone.

  “The honor is mine as well, Miss Luna.”

  A gentle smile lit her gaze, and she gave a slight shake of her head.

  “Please, there’s no need for such formality. At least when we’re speaking privately. In this short time, I’ve heard quite a few stories about you from Adam and Astarion, and I’ve formed the impression that you’ve become a close friend of our family. And if you allow yourself to be simply yourself even around my husband, then please, do the same with me.”

  Alex smiled more warmly, agreeing easily.

  “If that’s your wish, then all right. Especially since I’ve also heard many interesting things about you from Adam and the count. So I truly am glad to meet you.”

  He tilted his head slightly to the side, adding,

  “How are you feeling after… such a long sleep?”

  Luna looked surprised by the question for a moment, then smiled a little awkwardly.

  “I’ll admit, I didn’t expect that to be the first thing you’d ask. The first few days were difficult: my body tired quickly, and I couldn’t even move for long. But lightning mana quickly brought it back to normal, and now everything is fine.”

  “I’m glad to hear that,” Alex replied sincerely.

  Luna inclined her head once more, her voice becoming even gentler, with distinct notes of gratitude.

  “And still, I want to thank you. It was you who found that potion… it’s thanks to you that I can stand here now.”

  Alex gently but firmly asked,

  “Please, raise your head. You yourself said that I’ve become a friend of your family. So how could I not help?”

  She paused in thought for a moment, then asked carefully,

  “Is there any way I could repay you for this?”

  Alex sighed heavily in his mind, almost seeing a second Astarion standing before him. “An exact copy of the count… How good that Adam didn’t inherit this habit—always repaying debts.”

  Out loud, he only said warmly,

  “If you can truly enjoy the life you were given thanks to that potion, that will be more than enough for me.”

  Luna lifted her gaze to him, and for a moment sincere surprise flickered in her eyes. Adam said Alex is only fifteen… So why does it feel like I’m speaking with a grown man?

  She merely smiled, straightened, and said,

  “In that case, I will treasure this gift. And… if you ever find a free hour, I would like to meet again. Just to get to know each other better. If you’ve already become a friend to Adam and—surprisingly—even to Astarion, then I think we should become friends as well. What do you think?”

  Alex nodded with a gentle smile.

  “I would be very glad to. I’ll be sure to contact you as soon as I have some free time. Though… I’m afraid that may not be anytime soon.”

  “I know,” Luna laughed softly, her voice light and ringing. “You’re quite a busy person for an ordinary student. But I’ll wait as long as it takes.”

  “Thank you for your understanding,” Alex replied.

  “Well then, it truly was a pleasure speaking with you,” she said gently. “But you still haven’t met the Ravenfords. They’re quite curious to see who it is that teaches their daughter blood magic.”

  She sighed heavily and added, almost in a whisper,

  “I barely managed to convince Arthur to give me a little time to speak with you first. But it’s better not to keep him waiting. If Aria’s temper seems fiery to you, then Arthur’s…”

  She didn’t finish, because a low male voice full of playful notes came from the side.

  “And just what is my dear friend trying to say so secretly to young Alex?”