In the Tower, Allen and Luna had only just returned when they smelled the rich aroma of beef being cooked, and the scent drew them toward the kitchen.
The dining room and kitchen were brightly lit. Gubraithian Fire and undying flames gave off light that was bright without being dazzling. In the kitchen, the steaming half-finished dishes already looked mouthwatering, while the silver and glass vessels holding the food glittered in answer to the lights overhead.
"The beef's almost done frying. Take it out and set it aside for now." Compared with usual, Morgan le Fay's voice sounded a little excited.
"No need to wash the pan. Pour in the beef kidneys, stir-fry them for a little while, then add the onions and cook for three minutes." Helga's voice followed.
Allen walked over curiously. Penelope, still on holiday and not yet back at work, had her short hair pinned behind her ear with a sparkling diamond hair clip. She was wearing an apron printed with tender-yellow ducklings, completely at odds with her usual style, and was using her wand to direct diced beef kidneys as they flipped and fried continuously in the pan. In another pot, thick gravy simmered with bubbling gurgles, and the rising steam flushed Penelope's face red.
Morgan le Fay and Helga, who had stepped out from the little tavern in the portrait, gestured as they guided this female apprentice in cooking. Maggie and Winky were also crouched on a cabinet in the corner, watching this side while holding a small notebook and jotting things down—when the masters did not cook personally, they had to know the masters' tastes and preferences.
"Young Master, Miss Lovegood!" With a crack, the House-elf Kreacher appeared in front of Allen. He bowed deeply to Allen and Luna in greeting, then explained