❅ shouganai ❅

❅suddenly, nothing is as it was. where are you now, orpheus? wasn't it gonna be the two of us? weren't we birds of a feather?❅ ≿━━━━༺❀༻━━━━≾ casiphia yukizome bell twenty-two former hufflepuff & mahoutokoro alumni widowed potioneer

[cynthiaclearwater]

“Oh my gosh, this is delicious,” Cynthia said, through a mouthful of food. Then she laughed, covering her mouth with her hand, “Sorry,” she continued, once she’d swallowed, “That was rude. I just wasn’t expecting food from a cart to be this good. I would go to a restaurant that sold just these.”

[snowprintsandbells]

“Oh, no need to apologize,” Cassa said with a soft giggle and a dismissive wave of her hand. “That does look delicious. I was actually just lamenting to myself about the street food from Japan that I’ll miss since moving back to Scotland, so I’m more than interested in any good cart food. Where did you get it from?”

[snowprintsandbells]

alactairwatcon​:

“That’s great. You’ll have to let me come visit some time. I’ll bring you a housewarming gift,” Alastair said, grinning, “Thanks,” he added. He was also happy for him. He had never thought he wouldn’t get happiness with someone but sometimes it was hard to believe how happy he was with her. His smile softened, “Well I’m glad you’re better now. Positives are always a good way to go,” he raised an eyebrow, “Oh yeah? What kind? Cat, owl, toad? Or are we going down the less witchy route with dogs or something?”

“That’d be lovely! Mum will be thrilled that more people get to appreciate her decorating. She really went all out at the furniture stores.” Katie had nearly ransacked so many thrift stores and Muggle shops that Cassa was afraid everything they’d bought would overcrowd her cottage. But she couldn’t help it when her mum was on a roll like that, she was just too excited and sweet. 

“It’s a toss-up between a cat or a dog for now. Arya is going to go with me to one of the adoption centers and help me decide. It’ll be fun to do something with her since I haven’t been home in a long time. I was thinking that if I did get a dog, it’d probably be something medium-sized or smaller. I don’t know why, but I’ve always been partial to dogs that look like they’ve got a particular expression all the time. Like bulldogs look like they’re trying to be tough, and scottie dogs look like wise old wizards when they have the long fur that look like beards. You know what I mean?” she grinned, enthused by the topic. 

[snowprintsandbells]

fintanyaxley​:

“I must say hot chocolate wouldn’t be my first alternate choice, but I can see the appeal,” Fin replied, smiling softly at the other. He actually didn’t remember when as the last time he had that beverage, but he probably was very, very young. “I’m guilty of getting energy drinks whenever I cannot find decent coffee, but fortunately that is a rare occurence.” 

“Energy drinks are unfortunately a familiar territory for me. I used to live in Japan and there was no shortage of them. They were a frequent savior when I stayed up all night studying my last year in school.” Casiphia shuddered at the memory. She avoided sodas like the plague after that year. “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to look at artificial fruit flavors the same way ever again. Or the cute little characters on the cans. It’s a lot more tempting to buy one when a cute rabbit’s face is printed on it, at least for me. You might be better at overcoming the marketing then I am, hopefully. ”

[snowprintsandbells]

aryanarcbins​:

“I’m sorry you don’t feel that way, but I also understand why,” she spoke softly, keeping herself steady to provide comfort for Cassa. “I’m glad they were good to you. I think they’re always going to want to keep in touch with you. A piece of him will always live on in you, you know?” Arya said, hoping it offered some hope for her friend.

“That is a lot of pressure to put on yourself. Remember that you’re allowed to take it one step at a time,” she spoke reassuringly. “You’re allowed to take as much time as you need to grieve, planning for your future and finding the path you want to take will come along with that,” Aryana reminded, not able to fathom just how difficult this all was for Casiphia to carry. “I would love to help you with that! Do you have any idea what kind of pet you’d want? A dog, a cat, a bird, a turtle– one of the few domesticated fantastic beasts?”

“Yeah, that’s true. He, uh, he taught me how to play piano, actually. I’m not nearly as good at as he was, but it was one of his favorite things to do. Takuya used to say it was one of the few things he wasn’t too sick to do. I wish I’d saved more of what he wrote. He liked a lot of jazz, and some of it was kind of chaotic. It surprised me, honestly,” she said with a wistful smile and a soft laugh. “I have some of the sheet music still. Just haven’t had the courage to play any of it yet.”

Hope had been a hard feeling to come by for a while for Casiphia. There was a part of her that expected it to hurt as everything else did, but Aryana had a way to make her feel safer. Like the hope she’d given her was a long-needed life raft. She’d still have to swim to get to shore, but it would be easier than she was used to it being.

“You’re right. I shouldn’t do so much. I’m already so bad at asking for help, the last thing I should do is add more onto my plate when I’m not ready for it. One step at a time.” The subject change to possible pets was also a much-needed lightness in their heavy conversation. “I’m not sure. Cats are pretty low-maintenance, which is nice for handling a work schedule on top of it. But I think something with a bit more energy might be best to sort of give me a kick in the pants and get me motivated when I need it, so I’ve also been considering a dog. I don’t think I need anything big, though. Something around the size of if not smaller than a bulldog or a collie.”

[snowprintsandbells]

freycmccdougcl​:

“Well I mean, the plus side if you think of it as that, is that this place doesn’t let you adopt them given that they are owned by the people who work here or the owner more specifically.” Freya said as she laughed when her chin was licked at by the excitable pup in her lap. “I honestly don’t care what they get a taste for right now. This is just such good therapy if you are ever feeling under the weather.”

“That’s true. I’ve just been thinking about adopting a pet and figured the more I get used to them the better, you know? Figure out if I have the time for how much work a puppy or a kitten can be and all that. Do you have any furry friends at home?” Cassa burst into giggles as one flopped over itself in the fluffiest, clumsiest somersault she’d ever seen. They were so cute!! “Oh, for sure. I can’t imagine ever feeling down in here. Seriously.”

[snowprintsandbells]

ashesofhighmore​:​​

Ash was very surprised to see his old friend come up to his desk. “Cass! What a wonderful surprise!” He smiled at the other. He looked down at the treats the other was offering. “And treats? What type of surprise is this?” He laughed.

“Yes, treats. Chocolate biscuits, spicy crisps, fancy-flavored Kit-Kats; all of it. The best snacks that only Japan has to offer.” She grinned, “It’s a ‘Surprise! I moved back home’ type of surprise. I’ve been catching up and touching base with everyone since I got back. It’s been nice seeing everyone. How are you? How have things been? The Ministry Gig suits you, Mr. Professional.”

[lcuisweasleys]

Louis turned when he heard talking coming from behind him. He looked around, then turned to look at the person who was speaking. “I’m sorry, were you uh, speaking to me?” he asked, slightly surprised.

[snowprintsandbells]

“Oh, y-yes, I had just wanted to know where you got that,” Cassa said as she pointed to one of his accessories, “It’s really flattering and since it’s been getting colder, I’m always looking for more layers, you know? Where did you get it, if you don’t mind me asking?”

[snowprintsandbells]

natewood​:

“For good,” he repeated, trying to hide the elated feeling bubbling up in his gut that one of his friends had returned and wasn’t leaving any time soon. “They were good?” he asked, picking up on the past tense used. “No, no. It’s okay. You were off living your own life and it’s okay, Cassa. Really,” Nate reassured her. “I’ve worked through most of it now. Just some family drama.”

“Were, yes. I...Things happened, and I wasn’t okay for a while, but I’m doing better now. I still have a hard time talking about it, but I do want to tell you, and I will. I’m just not sure when, you know?  I, uh, I started at Slug & Jiggers. They needed a potioneer, and I needed work, so it worked out nicely. The Magical Menagerie next door got some new litters of pets in, and I’ve been thinking about adopting. Maybe you can come with me and help me decide?”

[snowprintsandbells]

whysosirius-james​:

“Well yeah, of course, but I’d wish you’d found me sooner. I could have helped you out with all that, you know?” James said, smiling as he pulled way from the hug, “She told you huh? His name is Alexander after her biological father and we’re holding up great. It’s an adjustment but we’re getting there. We’re really happy.”

“Yeah, but you know me. It takes me a bit of convincing before I ask for help. Maybe one day I’ll fix that bad habit.” Likely not today, but someday. Maybe. “She did! She was so excited, I could tell she was dying to tell someone. It was sweet. I’m sure his first broom will be headed his way soon, if not several. That little one is going to have no shortage of love and affection, that’s for sure. How old is he now?” 

[snowprintsandbells]

The welcome witch in the telephone booth thankfully hadn’t given Casiphia a hard time about stopping by the Ministry. She said “delivery” as the reason for her visit, which technically wasn’t wrong or untrue, but it was definitely on less-than-official business. She weaved around the other bustling witches and wizards and made her way to the Department of Magical Artifacts. 

Cassa spied Ash’s head amongst the other staff and she scampered up to his desk, a cardboard box filled with snacks and sweets from her favorite konbinis in Japan. She put the box down on his desk unceremoniously, chirping, “So I don’t think these count as artifacts, but I do know they’re delicious, so I thought they belonged in professional hands. Also, hi. I’m home now, and I missed you.” She paused to smile, “And sorry I vanished for a little while.”

@ashesofhighmore​​

[snowprintsandbells]

aryanarcbins​:

“Don’t you apologize, Cass. Don’t you dare,” Aryana shook her head, reaching to wrap her arms around her friend and hoping she was offering comfort. “I am so sorry that you went through all of that on your own. I have no clue how you did– you are so frickin’ strong,” she insisted, completely in awe of Casiphia and what she had endured. Her heart was heavy as she tried to come up with something to do or say. Anything at all that could lighten Casiphia’s load even by a little bit. “Is there anything I can do for you? Anything at all? You do not have to go through this alone anymore, Cassa.”

“Thank you. I just wish I felt strong.” Cassa leaned her head on Arya’s shoulder once she felt her friend’s arms curl around her. “It wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been. His family was always good to me, and they were really understanding when I had to move back here.” A part of her felt a tad guilty that she did leave them within a year of Takuya dying, but she knew they wouldn’t want her to stay when she was suffering.

“I don’t know, honestly,” she admitted. It was a question she knew would be coming when she eventually told her friends, but Casiphia knew that there wouldn’t be a clear answer. “I just need to figure out what I’m going to do now. I had a plan for the rest of my life that’s not applicable anymore, and I just have to figure out how to build a ‘normal’ life again, I guess. Go to work, see people, get a pet; all that. Maybe you can help me adopt a furry friend? I figured it’d probably be good to have something to structure my life around other than work.”

[freycmccdougcl]

“Oh my godric! How am I only just finding out about this place? There is a cafe where you can cuddle and play with dogs? I think I have now found my favourite place to get stress relief and have my work lunches.” Freya spoke excitedly from where she was sat on the floor. Honestly, she felt like she was in her element right now with the little creatures clambering over her that she honestly didn’t care who saw her or the shedding that was happening all over her clothes.

[snowprintsandbells]

“I can’t tell if it makes it easier to adopt one or not. They’re all so cute!” Cassa nearly squealed. The dogs were thrilled by her and Freya’s company, and between the little yaps and wiggling tails, it was hard to tell which one she liked the best. One of them began to nibble on the hem of her cardigan, and she laughed as she carefully peeled the playful pup away from her clothes, “Watch out, I think they’re getting a taste for polyester.” 

[snowprintsandbells]

madeline-brcwn​:

Maddie gave a sigh of relief, at least it wasn’t just them. “Thank you, you’re a lifesaver.” She replied, watching the other woman search through the shelves. “I don’t know? What constitutes a bad doxy infestation? They’ve gotten about three quarters of the way through one of our curtains? I’ve taken to hiding any important things away, just in case.”

“I think one curtain’s near demise is probably somewhere in-between minor and overwhelming. I had someone the other day come in and they said they had no carpets or bedding left after a few days. You’d probably be fine with two hundred grams, maybe three if you want to have extra just to be safe.” Cassa began to carefully scoop the shells into the designated jar, starting with one hundred grams initially to see what Madeline decided on before filling it any further. “Mr. Stenwood charmed the jars to handle possible impact a lot better than regular glass. I think after breaking a few draughts he realized he couldn’t keep blaming his made-up ex-lover for hexing him regularly.”

[snowprintsandbells]

mackenziepctter​:

Mackenzie wasn’t exactly paying attention either when the other ran into her. Mackenzie had Alex in a baby wrap in front of her, cooing lightly at him, calming him down. She barely even saw Casiphia before the other had run into her. “It’s okay, I wasn’t really—” she cut herself short when she realized who it was. “Cassa?” she asked. “What are you doing in Scotland?”

“Oh, hi!” Cassa exclaimed, equally as surprised to see Mackenzie. “I moved back home, actually. It was a bit of a last-minute decision, but it’s been good so far.” Her eyes fell to Alex and she brightened at the sight of him, “Oh, my goodness. He’s just as precious as Lucy said he would be! I’m so happy for you, Mackenzie. How have you guys been with him around? I’m sure you guys have been run-ragged. How old is he?”

[snowprintsandbells]

alactairwatcon​:

“You moved back?” Alastair asked, eyes widening in excitement, “Cassa, that’s great! Where did you end up getting a place?” He asked, “I’m good, I’m good. I’m in a relationship now. Peggy. She was my penpal back in the day, from America. Remember, I joined that programme? She moved here and now we’re dating,” he paused and furrowed his brow, “Yeah, that was a bit worrying. You don’t have to be sorry about it. Are you okay though?”

“I have a place not too far from Diagon Alley, actually. Close enough to walk to work.” It took Cassa a moment to recall the details that Alastair mentioned, but once she did, she said animatedly, “Oh, that’s right! Aw, that’s lovely. Alastair. I’m so happy for you.” The conversation turned to her and she faltered a tad. She’d opened up to Arya about what happened recently, and she knew on some level it helped her open up about it more. Even so, it was still worrying to consider the emotional reaction she may have. “I am now,” she said, trying to remain honest yet slightly vague. “I’m okay, and I’m focusing on the positives for right now. Catching up with people, making potions, all that. I’m even thinking about getting a pet.”

[snowprintsandbells]

whysosirius-james​:​​

James was walking along the street, having just bought some baby supplies that they were in need of. Since he was half-asleep, he didn’t notice the dark haired woman until she was talking to him. His eyes widened in surprise and he grinned, “Cassa!” He exclaimed, stopping so he could pull her into a hug, “When did you get back?”

Cassa was receiving lots of hugs these past few weeks and she certainly needed them now more than ever. She returned his smile and squeezed him back. “A few weeks ago now. Just trying to get everything together, you know? I saw Lucy not too long ago, and she told me the good news! Congratulations on your baby boy! I’m so thrilled for you and Mackenzie. How’re you both holding up? What’s his name?”

[snowprintsandbells]

aryanarcbins​:

Out of everything Casiphia could have told her then and there, Aryana had definitely not been expecting to hear that. Her heart seemed to ache as the realization sunk in, completely devastated for her friend. “Cassa I–” but nothing felt right. What could she possibly say? There was nothing she could do to make things better or to take the woman’s pain away. They sat there in silence for what seemed like an eternity before Arya finally spoke up again. “I am so sorry. I’m– I can’t imagine how you must’ve felt when you got that news,” she shook her head, her eyes glossed over with tears. “That’s why you’re back, isn’t it? Oh Cass– I’m so sorry.”

“Yeah, that’s why,” she said softly. “It’s why I stopped keeping in touch with everyone, as well. I...” She ran her teeth over her lips as she curled into herself, drawing her knees up to her chest. “I was suffocating in Japan. I couldn’t move on.” Cassa wiped her reddened eyes with her sleeve. “There was no escape from the grief. I stayed in Japan for Takuya, and then without him it was like there was no joy for me there anymore. All the color went away. That probably doesn’t make any sense.”

Cassa took a long deep breath. “I was so afraid to talk about it for so long. It felt like I had just gotten my head above water and I was scared I was going to start drowning again. I wanted to tell you, I just didn’t really know how or if I could yet. I’m sorry.”