InsaneJournal

Following breakfast, Severus suggested visiting an Asian market. He wanted to study potential potions ingredients, but he had a feeling that the Japanese Gardens would be next on Charity's list.

"And what are these?"

Severus glanced up from pondering an array of gnarled brown roots: Charity stood before several shelves of ceramic cat statues in white and black and many improbable hues.

"That," said the owner of the Asian market, "is Maneki Neko, Beckoning Cat, commonly called the Lucky Cat. In Japan they are placed in homes and businesses to bring good fortune to the owner."

Charity smiled. "How lovely."


* * *


"The most popular Maneki Neko is tricolored, a white cat with brown or black spots and a red collar. Bringer of good fortune and prosperity. Other colors have additional meanings. Gold is for money and wealth; blue cats are popular among scholars, representing wisdom and success in academic endeavors. Both the pink cat and the yellow," the man winked, "attract good fortune in love and marriage."

Severus scowled and pretended to be engrossed in the properties of three varieties of ginseng.

"And the black cat," said the market's owner, "brings to its bearer protection from evil."

Severus snapped around again.


* * *


As they left the shop, Severus thrust a small paper bag towards Charity. "Here."

"What's--oh!" Her face glowed as she held up and admired a black ceramic Lucky Cat. "He reminds me of you, all in black--oh! No!" Her fingers fumbled, but the cat slipped from her grasp.

"Shit."

Charity stared down at the cat, lucky no more.

"Reparo." The shattered pieces leaped together and the little black cat leaped into Severus' outstretched hand. He turned and handed it to Charity, closing his palms around hers.

"You'll want to be more careful," he intoned, looking into her eyes.