A Chance at Eternity

Previous Event (Double Trouble) | Next Event (Complete Surrender)

**A Chance at Eternity** was the 28th story event in Court of Darkness. It started around June 2nd, 2022. Tino and Knight were available at the start of the event. Jasper and Grayson were added a few days later on June 6th, 2022.

## Routes

### Tino Maes

*[Show/Hide]*

Tino meets with MC after her lecture in the Common Rank lounge. He serves her a new tea he recently bought in town. When MC asks what Lynt thought of it, he panics. Tino actually hadn't made any for Lynt as he bought it specifically for her. MC tells Tino not to apologize for that. She's actually glad that he's done that just for her. She also says she's glad to have him all to herself. As they lean in to kiss, they are interrupted by a messenger hawk. They jump away from each other, embarrassed, MC especially so since they were about to make out in a public place. Tino reads the letter and immediately takes her to Lynt's room. Once there, he explains the contents of the letter. He has been writing to his family and told them about MC. She's flattered, but Tino continues that there must've been something off in his wording. They don't seem to believe him and believe that he just made up the fact that he has a paramour. In the letter he just received, they informed him that they've arranged a marriage for him. MC is shocked, but Lynt's expression hardly changes.

The next day, MC tells Sherry what's been going on. Sherry knows about her relationship with Tino and she wanted an opinion from a third party. Sherry notes that the Maes family is well to do in Akedia since most valets serving the Akedia family come from their house. However, Sherry also points out it's obvious to anyone that sees them together how much MC and Tino love each other. She repeats this sentiment a little later when they're joined by Tino as a way to tease the happy couple. Tino tells MC that Lynt has invited her for tea and asks if she'll join him. MC agrees. When she arrives at Lynt's room, she notices he just woke up. She asks if he was napping. Lynt answers that Tino wanted to invite MC over so he took a nap earlier. Tino panics at having been caught in a lie, but no one's upset with him. Tino explains that no amount of letters will convince his family that his paramour is real. MC asks him if they could both travel to Akedia together to prove their relationship is real. However, Tino says that he can't leave Lynt alone to travel to Akedia. Even though Lynt states that he can take care of himself, Tino insists that leaving his charge to tend to his own personal matters would be seen unfavorably by the people from the House of Maes. With this in mind, he has invited an emissary from the House of Maes to visit the academy in order to ascertain their relationship. Lynt responds to this with, "Dragon's teeth." (which is hilarious to me because I don't remember Lynt ever using this kind of language.) Tino turns to MC and asks for her help. She agrees and Tino proceeds to ask if she'll be his wife. Tino explains that woman that are marrying into the family are expected to treat their husband with considerable respect. MC takes this to mean that the men in the family "rule the roost." The phrase confuses Lynt, so she explains. From what she tells Lynt, Tino says her interpretation is accurate.

The next day, MC is in her room wondering how this is going to play out. She gets a summons from Tino and leaves to meet him in the valet lounge. He admonishes her for being late, which confuses her. She also notices that Tino's not smiling as he usually does. She gathers that they're practicing for when the Maes representative shows up. Tino then demands that she prepare some tea for him, which she does. When MC serves him, Tino catches himself smiling and goes back to having a stern expression while saying "thank you." MC realizes that he needs to practice just as much as she does. She asks if she can sit next to him. Once he says "yes," she asks if he can give her his hand. He hesitates before agreeing to this request as well. She starts massaging his hand, thinking he needs to relax. Tino is unable to stay stone-faced at her actions and smiles. MC then asks if they could just act as they normally do around the representative, but Tino frowns and doesn't answer. MC decides not to push the matter. As they're sitting next to each other, Knight and Thoma walk in. They get a little embarrassed thinking they've interrupted a romantic moment and Jasper further teases MC and Tino. The two insist that nothing was happening and jump up to serve the newcomers.

A few days later, the Maes representative arrives and is surprised to see MC actually exists. MC is offended by his words, but follows Tino's lead and doesn't say anything about it. Instead, she politely introduces herself, doing her best to channel Sherry's mannerisms. Tino then takes the representative to the refectory. MC decides a good wife would make them tea without being asked, and does so. The representative doesn't thank her when she serves him and Tino. The two talk some more and the representative says that he'll be staying for several days to make sure their relationsip is genuine. Tino informs him that he is taking MC as his bride. He puts a hand on her lower back and she does her best to keep the butterflies in her stomach calm. While Tino takes the representative on a tour of the rest of the academy, MC waits for Tino in Lynt's room with the Akedian prince.

Lynt notices how put out MC looks and asks if she's okay. She notes that faking things for this representative hasn't been easy and Tino hasn't smiled once. Lynt doesn't doubt this. Lynt tells MC that Tino is bad a pretending to be something he isn't. He comments that Tino has only been able to keep up with this facade because he loves MC and really wants to be with her. Tino then comes in and brightly greets Lynt and MC. He then asks MC if she would be willing to do him another huge favor. He explains that Akedian couples that are betrothed live together, so the representative would expect that they are sharing a room together. He asks her if it she would be okay with spending the night with him. She has zero problems with this. MC gets ready for bed in her own room and then joins Tino in his. They sit on the couch and he apologizes for dragging her into this mess of a situation. MC tells Tino he doesn't have to apologize and let's him in on the conversation she had with Lynt earlier. She apologizes too before Tino puts an arm around her and kiss her forehead. He slowly kisses his way down from her forehead to her neck before making it to her lips.

The next morning, the representative wakes up early and knocks on Tino's door. He and MC scramble to get dressed and meet him in the hallway. He notes that them sharing a room was characteristic of a couple and asks to speak to them privately. Tino agrees. He asks the other valets if they can use the valet lounge, to which they agree. As the representative and Tino settle in, MC starts making tea. The representative notes that her eye color means she's from Avari, which she doesn't deny. He then says that everyone from Avari is meanspirited and violent. He also implies she must not have a noble reason for being with Tino. MC gets angry, but stays calm as she tells the representative that she's with Tino because she loves him. When the representative accuses her of using her feminine charms to fool Tino, she's stunned into silence. Tino has had enough of the representative being rude to MC and comes to her defense. He confesses that this has all been a farce; this isn't how they act towards each other at all. He explains that he likes doting on her. They were only pretending to act this way to gain his family's approval. He adds, however, their approval isn't worth it if they're going to mistreat MC in the process. At this, Knight, Thoma, and Jasper come in and note that Tino standing up for MC this way should be proof enough that their relationship is real and serious. Lynt (it is implied that he gathered these valet) asks the representative if this isn't enough. He says that he wasn't sure if it would be right for him to interfere, but then he heard Tino clearly express himself. Seeing as Tino has explained the situation, Lynt asks the representative to not prod any further. Lynt notes that Tino is a good man and there's a round of agreement from the other valets. The representative knows he's been defeated as he can't argue back against the Prince of Akedia.

Some time later, MC, Tino, and Lynt are in Lynt's room. The representative has cut his trip short and returned to Akedia. Tino apologizes. Lynt said he had nothing to apologize for, so Tino opts to thank Lynt instead. Lynt says because MC is important to Tino, she is important to him too (implying that he was also bothered by the poor treatment that MC was receiving). Lynt adds that he will speak on Tino's behalf if he gets in trouble with his family. Tino falls to his knees on the verge of tears at his master's kindness and declares this to be a "Young Master Day of Celebration." Lynt repeats the name of the new holiday Tino just made up, not sure what to do with it. He then announces that he's going to take a nap, so they need to leave. MC is surprised that Lynt wants to be alone despite being able to fall asleep during any situation. She announces that she'll go back to her room. Lynt tells Tino to go back with MC and tells MC to send her cat familiar to his room. Neither MC nor Tino realize that Lynt was trying to give them some time together until her cat left for Lynt's room which left them alone together. MC thanks Tino for defending her when the representative started accusing her of misleading him. It meant a lot to her to hear how he felt. In turn, Tino thanks her for putting up with all that nonsense. He knew how something like that felt, and he didn't want her to go through it anymore. They smile at each other and Tino says that he wants to protect and support her in everything. He tells her he can handle anything if she's with him and laces his fingers with hers. He kisses her, tells her he loves her, and asks her to stay with him for eternity. They start making out and only stop long enough for MC to tell Tino that she feels the same way.

*[Hide section]*

### Jasper Lane

*[Show/Hide]*

MC sighs as she walks through the hallways. Lately, she hasn't been able to see Jasper at all. She tried looking for him in the lecture buildings and the dorms, but he was nowhere to be found. MC wanted to spend some time with him since they are paramours. While she trudges down the hallway, she hears Guy's voice nearby. She realizes that Jasper must be nearby if Guy is there. Both men then emerge from around the corner. She greets them and says that it's good to see them again. Guy remains silent. Jasper says that it's been a while since he has seen her. MC comments that Jasper must have been busy since she hasn't seen him around the academy lately. Jasper responds evasively and MC wonders what's going on. She then notices the thoughtful look on Guy's face and asks if everything is alright. Guy ignores her question and contines to look at her. MC wonders if she did anything wrong. Jasper then calls Guy's name which directs Guy's attention to him. Guy condescendingly states that it's clear that MC has nothing better to do with her time. She gets upset and asks him what he means by that. Guy tells her that he has a task for her and tells him to come with him. MC wonders what the task is about it, but Guy walks away without explaining anything leaving MC confused. Jasper shrugs his shoulders and apologizes to MC about how sudden that was. MC asks Jasper if he knows what the task is. Before he answers her, she notices that Jasper looks less composed compared to normal. Jasper tells her to at least hear out Guy's request. MC agrees to hear it out for Jasper's sake. Jasper is grateful that she agreed. She then runs off after Guy.

In Guy's room, Guy starts to explain the task. He tells her that a tea room in town has recently become popular. He adds that she probably hasn't even seen it, let alone been inside it. MC is upset and asks him what he means by that. She is annoyed by his constant condescending attitude towards her and decides to instead focus on the tea that Jasper brewed for her. Jasper says that she probably hasn't seen the tea room since it's located in a place further in town snd it's different from the locations she usually goes to. MC asks if the tea room is a high class place. Guy and Jasper tell her that it looks ordinary on the outside, but there are many rumors about it being affiliated with a crime organization. MC asks if they believe in the rumors. She then wonders how close she might've come to one of those dangerous places during her many outings into town. Guy says that there's no smoke without fire. He tells MC that he already had Jasper disguise himself in order to do some preliminary investigations. MC pieces together that this is the reason behind Jasper being absent from the academy grounds lately. Jasper says that he has been recently spending most of his time in town. On one hand, she is relieved to finally know the reason behind his absence, but she's also concerned that he's involved in something dangerous. MC asks if Jasper is doing alright and he tells her that he's alright for the time being. However, he tells her in reluctant tone that there's one issue.

Jasper explains that the majority of the tea room's guests are women and entrance into the tea room is by invitation-only, so he can't enter on his own. MC figures out that this is the reason why they need her help. Guy says that she probably already figured out what he wants her to do. MC says that they probably want her to go into this shop and pretend to be one of the customers. Guy tells her that she is correct. MC doesn't really want to know about the dark rumors surrounding this shop, but she has a feeling that they're going to tell her about it anyway. Rather than accepting Guy's request right away, she first gauges Jasper's reaction. Jasper tells her that she can refuse if she wants to since this mission has a high level of risk. Guy doesn't say anything, but MC can tell that he's glaring at Jasper from behind for telling MC that she can refuse the request. Jasper notices Guy's glare, but he ignores it. MC is happy that Jasper is looking out for her even though he's going against his master's wishes. She thinks that they really must be in a bind if they are both requesting for her help. MC tells Jasper that she wants to help him which suprises Jasper. Jasper says that she never fails to astound him. Guy states that there shouldn't be any problems as long as Jasper accompanies her. He states it as if it was already obvious from the start that MC would accept so that she could be with Jasper. Jasper sighs and just accepts it. Guy smiles as if he won and drinks his red coffee. MC speculates that this probably puts an end to that conversation. Jasper calls MC's name and kneels at her side with a somber look in his eyes. He tells her that if she ever senses that she's in mortal danger during this mission, then she must run away at once. Jasper also insists that she promises not to dig too deeply into this matter by herself since it's dangerous. MC promises him. Guy just silently watches their exchange.

On the next day, MC feels nervous as she runs out of the dorms. MC remembers that Jasper will be disguising himself as someone named "Sirius". She can't picture what Jasper would look like in a disguise, but she's excited for a change of pace. MC arrives at the edge of town and turns around after someone puts a hand on her shoulder. Jasper states that she arrived early. MC is about to call him "Jasper", but he interrupts her and asks who that is. It was Jasper's way of indirectly telling her to call him by his fake name "Sirius" while he's in disguise. MC notes how different his current casual attitude is from the way he normally acts. Jasper tells her that they should head to the house they'll be staying in for the time being. MC tells him to lead the way and he tells her not to get lost. She replies that she will try not to get lost. Jasper grabs her hand which makes her heart beat faster. She knows that she's holding Jasper's hand, but it feels like she's holding hands with a completely different person due to Jasper being in disguise. MC admires how he changed both his apperance and his personality for his disguise.

They head to the house that Jasper had already been living in for the past couple of weeks as "Sirius". MC steps inside and takes a look around. Jasper chuckles at her. He tells her not to just stand in place and to quickly come to him instead. As MC walks towards Jasper, she looks all around the room instead of looking at Jasper. She can't look him in the eye since he feels like a different person. Jasper asks her why she's avoiding his gaze. MC tells him that it's because she didn't realize that they were going to pretend to be a married couple. Jasper asks if she's unused to the idea. MC says that she's still trying to wrap her head around the scenario that she was given to act out before coming here. Jasper tells her to just sit down for now and pats the seat next to him. MC is nervous so she sits down at the edge of the sofa seat which makes Jasper look at her with affection. Jasper tells her not to be nervous since she already knows him well. This makes MC feel more at ease since she realizes that he's still Jasper underneath his disguise. MC realizes that there's no one she would rather be doing this mission with than Jasper. But, the difference in his behavior while he's in disguise is throwing her off. Jasper chuckles and takes that to mean that his performance is very convincing.

Jasper then starts to go over their mission. He spreads a hand-drawn map on the table and points to a particular house. Jasper says that this house is the house that they are currently staying at. He then points to a part of the map that's circled in red. Jasper explains that this is the tea house. MC is surprised as the tea house is closer to their current location than expected. Jasper says that he chose a house that allows for ease of movement in serveral aspects. MC asks what those aspects are, but Jasper just smiles. He then goes to back to talking about the map. Jasper explains that this neighborhood is filled with many well-known and wealthy people. He adds that the tea room also has many customers. Jasper tells her that they will pretend to be a married couple and have their neighbors give them an introduction to enter the tea room. He says that he can't go in there alone since a man going in alone would attract suspicion. MC speculates that it's because single men are not the tea room's typical clientele. Jasper then sets aside the map and apologizes to MC. He knows that it must be really unnatural to suddenly have to share a house together and to have to pretend to be a married couple in order to enter the tea room. Jasper says that this is why they are acting as newlyweds who have just moved in together since this story seems more plausible for them to act out. Despite it being a mission from his master, he feels guilty that he dragged her into this situation. MC tells him not to worry about it and that it was her own decision to help him. Jasper smiles as MC nods encouragingly while rubbing the back of his hand.

Jasper's manner of speaking abruptly changes as he graps her chin and tilts it upward. His eyes are the same color as they always are, but for some reason they feel different to MC in this moment. Jasper says that it's best if they quickly get used to their new roles as a married couple. As Jasper moves closer to her, MC calls him "Jasper". Jasper corrects her and says that she should be calling him "Sirius". MC says that she forgot. Jasper says that she should remember that he's supposed to be her husband right now. He keeps moving closer until MC is backed up against the couch's armrest with nowhere to escape. Jasper's fingertips trail along her cheek and he tells her to call his name. MC correctly calls him "Sirius" this time, so he pulls away from her and stands up. Jasper tells her that he'll forgive her this time, but she has to quickly get familiar with calling him "Sirius" instead of "Jasper". MC says that she will do her best. She thinks that it's going to be easier said than done, but she keeps that thought to herself. MC then looks at his face and Jasper gazes at her mischievously.

MC asks him why he's alright with her participating in the investigation now, when he was against it in the beginning. Jasper explains that he was againist it at first, but they've already come this far into the mission so they might as well enjoy themselves. He adds that it also gives them some time alone with each other. MC isn't used to this casual and flirty version of Jasper, but she perks up at the sound of them having time alone together. She knows that they're here for business and not pleasure, but she can't help but smile at the thought of being with Jasper. MC tells Jasper that she's excited, but she's never been married so she wonders if she can pull of this act. Jasper says that marriage is just a word and that she doesn't need to think to deeply about it. MC is surprised that he answered that so easily. Jasper then asks her if something is wrong. MC asks Jasper if he has ever thought of getting married before. Jasper notices her intention behind asking that question and he tells her that he wouldn't mind getting married if it was with MC. She is moved by his affectionate words, but she is saddened by his dry outlook on marriage in general.

The next morning, MC wakes up in bed. She wants to get up from bed, but feels too comfortable and wants to stay in bed a bit longer. So, she snuggles back in bed and rolls over. She instantly feels awake when she recalls where she is. MC also narrowly avoids bumping her nose against Jasper's face when she rolled over. She had forgotten that they were currently doing a mission and that she is living here with "Sirius". While she's trying to calm herself down, Jasper moves beneath the covers. He wakes up and greets her good morning. MC finds Jasper's sleepy smile to be so innocent, cute, and unguarded. So, she has to resist her urge to cuddle him. She then greets him good morning back, but it comes out kind of high-pitched. Jasper reaches out his hand to comb his fingers through her hair as if to tell her "Well Done". MC almost calls him Jasper, but catches herself at the last minute and corrects it to "Sirius". Jasper tells her that it's alright to call him "Jasper" since they're alone and he's not currently wearing his disguise. MC briefly thinks about how she prefers Jasper's usual look compared to his disguise. She then hopes that they can stay in bed together for a bit longer. Jasper picks up on her wishes and looks at her fondly. MC knows that they're here for a mission, but she's enjoying herself. She is determined to make the most of her time together with Jasper, so she burrows beneath the blankets and curls up against Jasper.

Later, MC walks into the living room with a different style of makeup than she usually wears. She wonders if she was able to pull off a disguise. Jasper had already finished his preparations and was waiting for her. He notices her and gives her a cheeky grin. Jasper tells her that he likes the effect her makeup gives her. MC notices that he's already fully in Sirius mode, but she still accepts his compliment. While reaching for the door, MC asks if Jasper is ready to go. But, Jasper reaches out his hand to stop her and tells her to wait. He takes her left hand and puts a ring on her finger. MC is suprised and Jasper winks at her. MC asks what the ring is for. He tells her that it's necessary because they're pretending to be a married couple. He winks again and kisses her hand which makes MC feel like she's melting into a puddle. She distracts herself by admiring the beauty of the ring on her finger. MC can tell that it's a high quality ring. Jasper asks if she likes the ring and she says yes. Jasper is glad to hear that. He tells her that they should probably head out now. He grabs her hand and opens the door. MC grins as the sunlight illuminates Jasper's handsome face as he turns back to smile at her.

Once they step outside, Jasper's expression changes. MC observes that he looks laid-back, but is actually constantly looking around and keeping track of everything around them. She's never seen Jasper do this kind of work before. MC also tries her best to stay out is way since he knows what he's doing. Jasper then asks her she wants to have lunch today and MC looks confused. So, Jasper asks if she doesn't want to eat out once in a while and she answers that she does. Jasper smiles at her as if to say "keep it up". They roam around the neighborhood until they come across a group of women who are gossiping. Jasper goes to greet them. An older woman greets "Sirius" and asks who MC is. MC stands up straighter when all the people in the group start staring at her. Jasper answers that MC is his wife and that they just got married the other day. The older woman states that she had no idea that he got married. A younger woman congratulates them and Jasper thanks her. Jasper then asks MC to introduce herself. MC smiles and introduces herself as Sirius's wife. The older woman comments that MC looks quite young. Jasper replies that he often hears that. The younger woman comments that she would always be worried if she had a husband like him. MC asks what the younger woman means since Jasper is always sweet towards her. The younger woman explains that Sirius is very popular around this neighborhood. MC says "you don't say" and shoots a look in Jasper's direction, but Jasper just shrugs. Jasper tells her that it's not true.

The older woman asks if MC feel jealous. The younger woman comments on how innocent MC is. MC is upset at their teasing, but tries to calm herself down. She reasons to herself that she needs to stay in character and can't let their words get to her. MC starts sweating since she didn't expect to face such antagonism so early on in the mission. The older woman remarks that MC and Jasper look more like a couple that just started dating rather than a married couple. This makes MC panic and look to Jasper for help. She's worried that the women have seen through their act. Jasper looks confidently at her and grins. He tells the women that he adores that innocent side of MC and that it keeps things fresh in their relationship. Jasper adds that marriage hasn't diminished his love for MC at all. The 2 women state that it seems that "Sirius" has outplayed them. They giggle amongst themselves and Jasper plays along with it. MC thinks about what Jasper just said about love after marriage. But, her heart sinks when she is reminded of his comment from yesterday about how he's not the biggest fan of marriage. Based on that, she feels like their future together seems murky as there's no way to tell how Jasper really feels.

It's been a few days after MC was first introduced to the neighborhood gossip brigade. For the past few days, she has been making the effort to go out of her way to greet them and to join their chats as much as possible. Things have been going well so far for MC in terms of the mission. But, she's not spending as much time with Jasper as she would've liked to since he's always away doing investigations for the mission. Back to the present, MC is currently chatting with the women in the neighborhood at a cafe. One of the women is vexed about something. Another woman states that anyone would be angry under those circumstances and asks if MC agrees. MC wasn't listening, so she just agrees. MC is having lunch with this group of women, but her mind is constantly thinking about Jasper. She wonders why she was so sure in the beginning that she and Jasper would get some alone time together.

Then, there's a flashback to Jasper telling her that she can expect to have a great dinner tonight. MC tells him that she can clean the house since he's doing the cooking. But, Jasper tells her to jsut use this time to relax. She thought this relationship would be an equal partnership, but Jasper hasn't let her do anything in terms of housework. Jasper always stops her no matter what kind of housework she tries to do. MC tells Jasper that she also wants to contribute to taking care of the house, but Jasper tells her that it's fine and that she doesn't need to do anything. Jasper says that MC must feel tired from trying to get used to his unfamiliar lifestyle, so she should rest. MC feels like this is Jasper's way of being considerate, but it feels off to her. Even though their current marriage is a sham, she feels like they should still act like a true married couple. MC then goes to watch Jasper cook. There are 3 pits being stirred using magic. MC tells Jasper that she'll help out. Jasper states that she doesn't need to go to such lengths for his sake since he was the one who got her involved in this mission. The guilt on Jasper's face claws at her heart. MC doesn't think that this is how marriage should be. To MC, it feels like Jasper is just taking care of her in the same way that he takes care of Guy. This thought makes MC feel even worse.

Back to the present, one of the women wishes that she had a blissful marriage like MC does. MC is surprised when the woman spoke to her. She realizes that she should focus on the mission and stop thinking about Jasper. MC responds by vaguely smiling and drinking some tea. Then, the woman says that MC's marriage is probably blissful since she just recently got married. MC states that her marriage isn't that blissful and that it's still hard for her to believe that they are even married. Another woman says that MC is probably still in the paramour stage with Jasper. MC vents to the women about how she thought that she would be able to spend more time with "Sirius" once they were married. The topic of a newlywed trying to adjust to her new life hit too close to home for her and she just ended venting out her problems the women. One of the women suggests that MC should come to the tea room on Sunday. Another woman adds that there is supposed to be a tea party going on there on Sunday. MC wonders if this is the tea room that they're trying to get into for the mission. The woman who suggested the idea tells MC that seeing how other couples behave around one another in the tea room might help her solve all her problems. One of the women tells MC to bring Sirius along as well. She adds that MC can just mention her name at the door and they will let them in. MC is happy since this is what she and Jasper were after all along. MC then thanks them.

On Sunday night, Jasper is disguised as Sirius. They link arms and walk to the tea room. He praises her for being able to get them an invitation to the tea room in such a short amount of time. MC asks if he was suprised at how fast she got the invitation and he says "yes". As Jasper looks at her with pride, MC feels like she was finally useful to him. Jasper reminds MC to act confident, causal, and comfortable since they are supposed to act like a married couple. MC says that she will keep that in mind and they walk towards the entrance. The doorkeeper stops them at the door and asks who invited them here. MC states the name of the woman that invited her and the staff person nods. Jasper tells the doorkeeper that he would like to accompany MC as well since she's his wife. The doorkeeper then asks for proof that they are married. Jasper hands over a fake ID card, but the doorkeeper shakes his head. He tells them this is not the type of proof he needs.

Then, he takes out a mysteriously-colored flower that has shimmering petals. MC wonders what it is since she's never seen anything like it before. At that moment, the leaves of the flower turn into vines and wrap around MC and Jasper. They are firmly stuck together as they are lifted into the air. MC asks what's happening. The doorkeeper remarks that it seems like MC and Jasper have only recently started living together. The color of flower changes and the doorkeeper asks if they're newlyweds. Jasper tells him that they just got married the other day. The doorkeeper notes that it does seem like they have been living together. The vines then release them back onto the ground. The doorkeeper explains the flower determines how long a couple has lived together. MC asks if it's prevent entry to people who lie about being a couple. The doorkeeper affirms MC's words. He tells her that the security is strict in order to provide the most enjoyable experience for their guests. Jasper murmurs approvingly as his eyes track the flower that the doorkeeper tucks away. The doorkeeper doesn't notice that Jasper is watching them. He gives Jasper a handkerchief that is the same color that the flower turned. The doorkeeper explains that Jasper must keep this handkerchief on him at all times as proof that they're allowed to enter. Jasper tucks the handkerchief into his breast pocket and takes MC's hand.

Inside the tea room, MC is stunned by how luxurious the tea room is. She feels both nervous and excited. Jasper whispers that the tea room is as popular as the rumors say it is. Jasper looks calm on the outside, but he sharply gazes at his surroundings. MC decides to set aside all her thoughts and focus on her mission. She does a casual sweep of the room and notices a lot of couples. Jasper speculates that the people that have handkerchiefs are here as guests of their partners. The handkerchiefs all have different colors, so MC speculates that it represents the different stages that each couple is at in their relationship. MC notes that Guy's information was correct about the tea room being a trendy spot. Jasper is serious as his eyes sweep over each table. He notes that there aren't any empty tables, so they should try asking a random couple if they can mingle with them. Jasper starts his act as MC's husband and tells her that speaking with strangers might be interesting. MC goes along with his act by calling him "sweetheart" and tells him that he has the best ideas. MC is determined to gather as much information as she can. She nervously clutches Jasper's arm. Jasper reassures her that it's alright and she nods back. MC starts to calm down when she realizes that Jasper is here with her. Jasper makes sure that MC is ready before approaching the nearest table. Jasper greets the couple at the table and asks to join them. The woman agrees and the couple makes room for them at the table. The woman remarks that she doesn't recognize them and asks if it's there first time here. Jasper says that it is and asks them if they recommend anything from the menu. The man recommends the red tea as there is no sugar or other things added to it.

As they sip the tea, they ask the couple about what goes on in the tea room. MC comments on the marvelous atmosphere in the tea room and says that she could hardly believe how great it was when she stepped inside. The woman says that she and her husband come here every week. The man says that he's more fond of the tea than the decor and the woman agrees. Jasper asks if the tea is that good. The man says that the flavor of the tea is decent and then he looks at his wife. Their cozy behavior makes Jasper grin and he presses for more information. He remarks that it seems like there is more to the tea than its taste. The man tells them that the tea has mysterious effects. It makes them feel good. The woman says that it makes her feel like she's flying. Jasper says that it sounds remarkable. The man says that he also couldn't believe it at first. The woman says that there are rumors that the tea is good for your skin as well. MC tells Jasper that they should try some as well. She takes another sip of the tea to make it seem like she easily believed them. Jasper then says that the cookies look good and proceeds to purposefully knock over MC's tea cup. He apologizes and asks MC if she's alright. She tells him that she's fine. Jasper dabs her skirt with the handkerchief they were given by the doorkeeper. Jasper says that it's a shame since MC looked great in her outfit. MC tells him not to worry. Jasper pretends that there is another spot he needs to wipe and leans in close to MC's ear. He warns her not to take another sip of the tea. MC doesn't say anything, but she confirms that Jasper is also thinking that the tea is suspicious. To make it seem natural that he leaned close to MC, Jasper apologizes for touching her somewhere inappropriate in public. He pleads with her to not be mad at him. Then, he winks as a signal for her to play along. MC says that she is glad that he saved her from the spilt tea and that she would never get mad at him for something like that. The married couple comments that they both make a cute couple. While the other couple teases them, Jasper gets up from his seat. He apologizes to them for the disturbance and says that he will go get one of the waitstaff. Jasper tells MC to wait at the table. MC smiles at him to let him know that she can handle things from here. Jasper then walks away. MC wonders if she will be able to get this couple to share any information with her. The woman tells MC that she is so lucky to have such a handsome husband and MC agrees. As he sips his tea, the man jokingly tells his wife not to make eyes at other men in front of him.

MC asks the couple if they are married and the man affirms it. The woman says that they have been together for a long time. MC notes that they seem really close. The woman says that they're close, but she is jealous that MC has such a handsome husband. The man remarks that he is attractive in his own way. MC is in a great mood after hearing them praise Jasper. MC tells the couple that she's more jealous of how close they are as a couple. The woman asks if MC is troubled by anything. MC ends up spilling out the truth. MC tells them that she's glad that she married "Sirius", but it doesn't feel like they are married in the same way that the couple is. MC keeps thinking about the comment Jasper made about how he considers marriage as just a word and that there's no need to think about too deeply. The couple look at each other and shrug. The woman says that she and her husband have been together for many years, but neither of them would be able to tell her what a true married couple should be like. MC takes it to mean that marriage is what you make it. As MC goes to ask them more about it, a voice calls out her name. She turns around and is shocked to see a female student from the academy calling her name. The woman asks MC if that girl is her acquaintance. MC says that she's not quite her acquaintance. The man then asks if that girl is Sirius's friend. The female student then asks what they mean by "husband". MC panics as she will fail her mission if her identity gets revealed here. She curtsies hastily to the confused husband and wife and runs out into the hall. MC wonders why a student from the academy is here. Once she no longer hears the voice of the female student following her, she stops running. She sighs in relief and then decides to go tell Jasper as soon as she can. As she takes a step forward, her vision warps and it goes completely black.

She has a dream about Jasper asking her how long she intends to sleep. Then, Sirius appears and tells her that he'll punish her if she doesn't wake up soon. MC wonders when she fell asleep. She wakes up to find herself lying on a sofa in an unfamiliar room. MC can't recall anything after being chased by the female student into the hall. Her legs feel wobbly as she tries to stand up, so she steadies herself by holding onto a shelf. MC feels dizzy and she wonders what's wrong with her body. An unknown person then remarks that she finally woke up. MC turns around and sees an unknown man behind her. MC is shocked. The man asks her how much she lied. MC presumes that the man already knows that MC is not who she claims to be. She wonders how she's going to get out of this situation. She tries to come up with an excuse, but her thoughts are too fragmented. The man tells her that the tea made her like that. He sneers and starts walking closer to her. MC tries to get away, but dizziness is so strong that she can barely move. MC screams out Jasper's name in her head as if calling him for help. MC touches the ring on her finger out of reflex and the man notices it. He admires the jewel on the ring. MC yells at him to stay away from her. The man grabs her hand and takes her ring. He tells MC that this ring doesn't matter anyway since MC isn't actually married. The man says that they've also captured Jasper in a separate room and that he won't be coming to rescue her. MC panics at the thought that they have captured Jasper. The man laughs vulgarly and examines MC's wedding ring. He tells her that she can get a lot of "tea" (drugs) for this ring. MC scowls and asks what he means. He chuckles and says that she can't possibly not know the potion that's put into the red tea. MC asks what potion he put in there. The man explains that it's an elixir that puts you in a good mood once ingested. MC says that this basically just means that the elixir makes you high.

MC remembers how Jasper had spilled her tea and is grateful that he did it. The man says that the elixir is addictive, but it doesn't cause any harm. He says that the effects of the elixir are more intense the first time and that some people feel dazed. Some people also lose temporarily lose consciousness like MC did. MC wonders if Jasper knew about the effects since he warned her about it. The man says that they make a lot of money selling the drink to people who become reliant on the elixir. He adds that it gets fun when there are people like MC who sniff around their business. MC calls the man a creep as she sarcastically thanks him for the confession of his crimes. She rolls her eyes, smacks away his hand, and starts running for the door. However, the elixir has made it hard for her to even stand up straight, so it takes all her strength just to take a single step. MC grits her teeth and warns him to stay away. As the man grabs her wrist, the door violently flies open. The man recoils as he notices that Jasper was the one who charged in. Jasper threateningly asks what the man has done to his wife, MC. The man is intimated by the anger radiating from Jasper and shrinks back. The man is suprised that Jasper is here because he thought that Jasper had drunk the tea. Jasper demands that the man answer his question and asks what he intended to do to MC. He threateningly walks closer and yanks the man's hand off of MC. The man mutters deliriously to himself about how it is impossible that Jasper is able to move while under the effects of the elixir. Jasper sighs. He says that he wouldn't be able to call himself Guy's valet or be worthy of being MC's husband if he was caught so easily. MC calls him by his real name (Jasper is currently still disguised as Sirius). They warmly gaze at each other. After that, Jasper turns his attention back to the man who kidnapped MC. The man lets out an agonized cry as Jasper kicks him and then crumples to the floor.

Jasper sees this as an opportunity to escape, so he picks up MC and tells her to hold on to him. He tells her that they have to flee now and that he'll explain everything later. They run out into the hallways. The men that captured them are chasing them through the halls. Jasper knows that there are multiple men chasing after them, so he runs out into the streets with MC in his arms. However, one of the men chasing after them blocks their way. He tells them that there is no escape and that they're surrounded. Jasper is panting and he looks like he is in pain. MC realizes that Jasper is also suffering from the effects of the tea. She then wonders why anyone would ever drink this tea out of their own will. MC notices that Jasper will have to defend her while attacking all these people. Jasper keeps an eye on the circle of men that is closing in on them. One of the men tell them to stay right where they are. MC realizes that they will be captured at this rate. MC then tells Jasper that he'll be able to escape if he runs away by himself. As Jasper mentions something about this being the right timing, a thundering roar echoes through the night sky. MC looks up and sees a massive shadow blocking the red moon. She is surprised to see Guy riding on Ertl right above them. The men freak out and shout that a dragon is coming towards them. Ertl beats his wings and slowly descends in intimidating loops. Jasper exhales in relief as he watches Ertl descend. Guy slides of Ertl's back and glances at MC and Jasper. It is implied that Guy noticed that Jasper was in pain. So, he tells them to leave and not get in the way of his work here. With that warning, he creates a wall of magic which opens up a path of escape for them. Jasper tells MC that it's time for them to go. MC wonders if it's okay to just leave Guy behind to take on all those men. Jasper nods at Guy and takes off running with MC down the newly formed path. While running, he tells her that they'll only be getting in the way if they stay. MC is surprised by the shrieks of horror coming from behind them. Jasper jokes that those men have outclassed by Guy. He then adjusts his grip on MC and runs even faster.

They keep running until they reach the back alleys of the town. Jasper tells MC that they should be far enough away. He sighs in relief and sets MC down on the ground. MC is glad that they were able to escape. But, the strength in her legs give out once her adrenaline vanished. She almost face plants into the ground, but Jasper catches her. He stares at her in concern and asks if she's okay. MC talks about how scary the whole situation was and tells Jasper that she'll be okay. But, her shaking voice and trembling hands betrays her true feelings. MC tries to force a smile, but Jasper hugs her tighter. He apologizes that she had to experience something so frightening since he had promised to protect her. MC shakes her head and hugs Jasper back. MC tells Jasper that it isn't his fault and that he did protect her in the end. When MC hugs him tightly, the tension leaves his body. Jasper says that he is glad that MC is unharmed. MC smiles and nods at his heartfelt words.

A few days later, Guy summons MC to his room after the end of her class. MC is curious about what happened to the tea room after they left Guy to handle it. MC hasn't heard anything about the situation ever since the day she and Jasper infiltrated the tea room. She also hasn't seen Guy or Jasper anywhere. She feels like things are back to how it was before she joined the investigation. MC knocks on the door, Jasper opens it, and greets her with a smile. MC feels happy since she hasn't seen Jasper in a long time. Guy gestures for MC to sit down on the sofa and Jasper prepares a cup of tea for her. Guy tells her that the men that attacked them have been apprehended and that the tea room is no longer in business. He adds that the men tried to claim that they only added a charm to the tea to make the people who drink it feel relaxed. But, it was found out that illegal potions were mixed into the tea. Guy says that a criminal organization was responsible for selling and trading this potion-tainted tea at a high price. MC connects Guy's words with what the guy who abducted her said. She vividly remembers how he stole her ring and yanked her wrist which makes her hands tremble. The cup in her hand clatters as she relives that fear. Jasper indirectly warns Guy to stop talking about the situation by telling him not to forget about the danger that MC experienced over the course of this situation. However, his warning doesn't have any effect on Guy. He just looks at Jasper with an amused face and states that MC was unharmed in the end. Jasper sighs and shrugs. MC is relieved to see that their banter with each other hasn't changed. She is also happy that Jasper would go as far as to chide his own master for her.

By the time MC leaves Guy's room, it's already nighttime. Jasper walks her back to her room and they stop outside her door. MC thanks him and he smiles while telling her that it was no problem. MC can't stop staring at his smile and is reluctant to open her door. Jasper notices her reluctance to part with him and asks if she wants to have a cup of tea with him. MC welcomes his suggestion. She tells him that she purchased a really good blend of tea the other day. Jasper tells her that he's looking forward to it. They enter MC's room and she prepares some tea. This tea blend has actually been in her possession for a while now since she had hoped to one day be able to make a cup of tea for Jasper. The room is filled with a sweet and flowery aroma which makes Jasper feel pleased. He tells her that it's a very relaxing fragrance. It's been a long time since they've had tea together in her room and the experience feels more comforting than she would've thought. MC notes that she prefers moments like this over the fake life they shared as a married couple. MC then asks Jasper if he would like another cup of tea. When she stands up to take his tea cup from him, she notices her empty ring finger. She stares at it a bit longer than she should. MC then thinks about how there were some parts of the married life that she wouldn't mind having back.

She is startled out of her thoughts when Jasper suddenly takes her hand. He takes out the same ring that the man who kidnapped her had stolen from her. MC asks if he had gotten the ring back. Jasper says that he had originally thought that marriage was little more than a word, but now he doesn't mind the concept of marriage since it serves as symbol that he will always be by MC's side. He tells her that he wouldn't be able to handle it if another man were to take his place. MC's heart beats faster since his words feel like a proposal. Jasper kisses her ring finger and tells her to keep this finger empty for him. He then rungs his fingers along the knuckle where the ring he gave her used to be. MC is so happy that she wants to throw her arms around him, but she settles for an eager nod. She tells Jasper that she will definitely keep her ring finger empty for him. Jasper grins and places the ring on her right hand for now. MC loves the ring and promise that Jasper made about them being together in the future.

Jasper then says that he will get another cup of tea ready for the both of them. MC watches him go with an indescribably sense of happiness. Jasper looks back at her in confusion and asks if everything is okay. MC feels like she doesn't need proof from Jasper to know that he's loyal towards her and that he would follow her to the ends of the world if she wanted him to. She knew this when he came to rescue her and hugged her in the back alley. To her, this is proof that they're joined together in ways that can't be measured through physical means. Jasper's eyes widen as MC stands on her tippy-toes and kisses him. Even after she pulls away from their kiss, he is too stunned to moved. MC is also suprised as she has never seen Jasper so bewildered before. She comments that she didn't know he could make that kind of face. Her joke jolts him out of his shock and he smiles in a self-deprecating way. Jasper admits that he wasn't prepared for that kiss. He is amused by this turn of events since he didn't expect her to be able to surprise him this much. MC laughs in response. She tells him that she likes seeing different sides of him and that it feels like something only she is allowed to see. Jasper comments that MC says such charming words. He hugs her waist and brings their faces close together. The mood becomes romantic and MC comments how she likes Jasper's current expression. MC gazes at his lips and his crimson eyes. She feels like she wants him so badly. Jasper asks if he should show her more of him. MC answers yes. She also describes his voice as "sex itself" as she nearly moans at the sound of his voice. Jasper kisses her in a hot and demanding way which leaves her feeling lightheaded. She tries to keep up with his kisses, but it gets harder for her to breathe. Jasper passionately kisses her as if to tell her that he'll never forgive her if she pulls away from their kiss.

As MC is thinking that she wants him in her bed tonight, Jasper takes off his outer jacket and lifts her into his arms. The anticipation she feels makes it hard for her to look away from Jasper. Jasper asks her to show more of herself to him in return. He gently sets her down on the bed. MC notes how Jasper knows exactly what his seductive smile is doing to her. Jasper says that being intimate with each other is a special right they share as one another's paramours. He then asks her for permission to proceed. They lace their fingers together and kiss again. MC closes her eyes and gives herself over to Jasper.

*[Hide section]*