Flight of Frost and Aurora

Chapter 46

After that Christmas season, life in Snejotep Haven began to shift a little. At least for Alastor that is, having made a memorable impression at the Yuletide Ball, quickly rose to popularity. With his striking good looks, the riches he bestowed upon the Pentious Family, his incredible dancing, and his newfound talent for playing the pan flute, he had become quite the catch among the ladies and employers.

No one quite understood how he managed it, but Alastor always seemed to have a glimmering piece of gold or a sparkling jewel tucked away in his pocket. Curious onlookers would often inquire about the source of his treasures, but Alastor would simply smile and insist that it was his little secret. He would always swear before God that he had never stolen a single piece of his fortune. Even more perplexing, despite possessing gold and jewels, he still chose to sleep in Lucifer's barn or by his fireplace, still often donning simple clothing. He continued to work for Lucifer, enduring the man himself, his cruel wife, and his unbearable stepdaughter.

When he wasn't toiling away, he found solace in playing the pan flute that had been gifted to him on Christmas. His music was nothing short of extraordinary. It was reminiscent of the gentle song of falling winter snow, the soothing melody of a warm hearth, and the sweet harmony of a smile. No one could play the pan flute as beautifully as he could.

"Good morning, Mr. Borisova," Alastor greeted with a charming smile as he strolled past the stand where a stout man displayed an array of jewelry, laces, and other exquisite wares.

"Ah, Alastor! What a delight to see you! Your presence truly brightens the day," Mr. Borisova replied, his voice warm and inviting. "I've been hoping to speak with you. Given your remarkable talent for locating gold, diamonds, and pearls, I believe you could be an invaluable asset to my shop."

Alastor chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I genuinely appreciate the offer, Mr. Borisova. However, Judge Morningstar provides me with what I need to sustain myself."

"Oh, poppycock! He makes you sleep in a barn and pays you in copper. If you worked for me, you could have my guest room, and I'd gladly split my earnings with you. With the money we could make together, you'd be set up in your own manor house!"

"That's a tempting offer, but I have my own aspirations. To achieve them, I must remain in the judge's good graces. Thank you for your kind proposal, though."

As he continued on his way, Alastor rounded the corner and passed by a group of four washerwomen diligently tending to their work.

"Good morning ladies." He greeted them on his way to the Morningstar estate.

The washerwomen paused in their work, glancing up at Alastor with admiration. They exchanged whispers, their cheeks flushing as he flashed them a charming smile.

"Good morning, Alastor!" one of them replied, her voice a little breathless. "You certainly know how to brighten our day!"

Alastor chuckled lightly, enjoying the attention. "Just doing my part to spread some cheer. How are the linens coming along?"

"They're coming along nicely, thank you! But we could use a bit of your musical talent to make the work go faster," another woman teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Certainly." With a playful grin, Alastor raised the pan flute to his lips and began to play a lively tune, enchanting everyone around him as he continued on his way.

"Oh, he's so handsome," one of the women sighed.

"His music is like a dream," another murmured, lost in the melody.

"He is a dream," swooned a third, her heart clearly captivated.

"And he's single too!" Gawked a fourth, her excitement palpable.