Trial of Time: A Hogwarts Legacy Story

(P1) Chapter 4 - An Unfortunate Enemy

Everything that happened within the last hour was still a blur. First the troll attacks, then seeing Ranrok and those Dark wizards discussing my capture. It was almost too much. I'm glad that Sebastian was there to pull me away. I'm afraid I might've stayed frozen in place if he hadn't.

We quickly make our way into the Three Broomsticks, taking a seat at the bar. I notice a goblin bidding farewell to the friendly looking barmaid behind the counter. He smiles at us as he walks toward the exit.

Sebastian's eyes appear to be glued on me. Since the troll attack, it feels like he refuses to look away from me. Almost like he's afraid he might miss something important at any moment.

While part of me is thankful for his presence today, another part is deeply concerned. Sebastian witnessed me using ancient magic firsthand, to kill a troll nonetheless. 

How am I supposed to explain this away?

We're approached by the barmaid herself, Sirona. I introduce myself as she pours our Butterbeers. "Free of charge, for all of your hard work today," she smiles as the mugs are placed in front of us. I've never tried it before, so the warm and sugary taste is welcoming.

"I'm glad to see you two escaped the troll attack without injury," says Sirona.

Sebastian smiles and raises his glass to me, "All thanks to this one! Singlehandedly took down a troll." I can feel myself blushing at his praise.

Sirona nods, "You did very well. I must say that something feels off about the whole thing. Trolls have never attacked Hogsmeade before. Usually the only brutes we have to deal with are-"

She's interrupted by the door opening to the tavern. Every single person in the room immediately falls silent. We both turn around and are horrified to see who has entered. It's both of the Dark wizards who were talking to Ranrok in the alley. They see us and begin to slowly approach.

"Hmmph, how timely," Sirona mutters as she walks out from behind the bar.

"Was that Lodgok I saw leaving just now? Your clientele's not what it used to be, Sirona," the first man smiles toothily.

"Not to worry, Victor. The caliber of my clientele will improve greatly once the two of you leave," Sirona retorts. The other man grunts in anger and reaches for his wand.

"Come now, no need for theatrics. We're only here for her, anyway," the first man says, pushing the other man's wand away and gesturing towards me. I feel movement from Sebastian standing up beside me, moving in front of me with his wand out.

"My friend is enjoying a well-earned Butterbeer," Sirona states firmly. The man tries to push past her, "I only want a quick word with the girl," he demands.

At this point, every witch and wizard in the bar was standing up, staring directly at the men with wands at the ready.

"Perhaps you didn't hear me," says Sirona. "My friend. Is busy."

"Hmph. One would think you've all had enough bloodshed for one day," The man scoffs.

He turns to the other man who still hasn't spoken a single word, "Come, Theophilus. Let's take our galleons elsewhere. The Three Broomsticks isn't what it used to be."

He turns toward me again. "Can't drink Butterbeer forever," he threatens menacingly.

With that, the two men exit the establishment. Sirona looks at me, sympathy in her eyes. "Seems you've made an unfortunate enemy," she sighs. "Watch your back, Ciri. Victor Rookwood and Theophilus Harlow are worse than any trolls you could ever encounter."

I muster a smile. "Thank you, Sirona," I say softly, "for everything."

Sebastian and I finish the rest of our Butterbeers and make our way to the exit.

---------------------------------------------------

As we step out into the fresh air, I can see nightfall quickly approaching. "We should get back to the castle. I'm sure Weasley will hear about the troll attack if she hasn't already," Sebastian says.

As we start walking, Sebastian starts asking questions.

"So, let me get this straight. First, you kill a troll with some unbelievable wandless magic I've never seen before. Now Victor Rookwood and Ranrok are after you? What's going on?"

I attempt to ignore the question completely, which is ineffective as he moves directly in front of me, halting my steps forward, "What are you not telling me?"

I let out a sigh. "Not now, Sebastian. I promise I will tell you everything. But it's best if I do that somewhere safer."

After a moment he nods, reluctantly accepting my response. For now, at least. I exhale sharply, "Will you please keep everything that's happened tonight between us?"

I see the corner of his mouth turn to a slight smirk, "Of course. Our little secret."

We continue on our way back to Hogwarts.