- Heaven's Last Breath -

Memories

- Aaron -

---

"The eastern sector? Isn't that on the other side of the city?"

After meeting with Aetherea in the western Grand Hall, the six of us made our way back to her place. It was a little ways from the main city, sat in a secluded space in a sky blue atlas cedar forest just outside of the huge stone walls.

Walking down this path brought back memories, mostly of the times I would sneak out into the main city without Aetherea knowing. At least, that's what I thought. Looking back, I found it implausible to think that the dark elf witch had no idea where I was sneaking off to but that was part of the fun.

"That's right. But there's no rush, I'm sure they're back already." Aetherea led the way down the white stone path. With a wave of her right hand, a large cedar tree twisted in its spot, revealing the small house just beyond it.

From the outside, it didn't look like much, taking on the appearance of a stereotypical witch's hut. Dark spruce wood lined the walls, a sloped, thatch straw roof above it. A brick chimney jutted out from the roof, thin smoke billowing out into the clear blue sky above.

As Aetherea opened the front door, I heard awe filled gasps from behind. The dark elf witch lead the way, stepping into the reception hall. Along the hallway, various elegant paintings lined the walls, numerous exotic plants placed inbetween them. The corridor stretched out, leading to a two way spiral staircase just ahead.

The floor was made from a delicately crafted marble pattern, a gleaming chandelier hanging from the ceiling above. The stud walls were painted cream, some of the rooms using decoartive wallpaper to add to the

On either side of the entrance hall, there were two sets of double doors, leading to various rooms. If nothing had changed since last time, the doors on the left would lead to the main living room and on the right, there would be the music room.

I looked ahead, seeing the doors to the main dining room were open, the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. The familiar scent brought back memories of when Aetherea would bake for me to brighten my mood after a long day.

As I turned around, I saw that everyone was taking in the view differently. Jade looked amazed to say the least but managed to keep it under control under her collected face. Death didn't look particularly surprised but I could see the awe in his eyes.

Quite clearly, Ariel couldn't contain herself. Her mouth had been agape the entire time, no doubt struggling to see how such a beautiful house didn't look like much from the outside.

"Miss Aetherea, uh, how- how- how?"

The dark elf witch slowly turned around, a warm smile on her lips, "Please, darling, call me Aetherea. This isn't any advanced magic, Ariel. I'm sure you could do the same."

That seemed to catch the rose blonde's attention. She muttered something about how she missed out on living like this a few years ago but that wasn't important now.

"Wow, your place is as stunning as ever. This sure beats the castle!" Amenet looked around, her smile pure.

"Ha, you're all welcome here anytime."