Legacy Disowned - Book 1

Chapter 3 - The Village

The afternoon sun streamed through the tall windows of the transfiguration classroom, casting elongated shadows across the worn floorboards. Professor Weasley sat at her desk, a warm smile on her face as she greeted Maggie, who hesitated at the entrance. Her gaze was momentarily drawn to a house elf flicking its fingers before disappearing with a soft pop.

"Ah, there you are," Weasley said. "I trust your classes went well?"

"Can't complain yet," Maggie replied.

"I hear you are making a good impression on your professors. However, to ensure your preparation for O.W.L.'s, you will require some extra lessons. Professor Ronen will meet with you outside shortly. —I have received word your wand is ready and you'll have to replace your supplies, which means a trip to the village."

"Perfect, I will head there—"

"—Not so fast. You'll need to go with a classmate on your first village visit to help you—"

"I don't need a chaperone, Professor," she said firmly.

"I'm sure you don't, but I insist. Perhaps Sebastian Sallow or Natsai Onai? I hear you get along"

"I get to choose who to go with?" She was surprised. Maggie experienced a strange emotion bloom within her chest; this particular freedom was one she had never experienced before.

"I'll go with Sebastian." He'd be more fun, and more importantly; would likely let her get away with more.

"Glad to hear it," she smiled knowingly. "Mr Sallow is a capable young wizard and knows the area. He'll keep you clear from Victor Rookwood's undesirables. Finish your lesson with Professor Ronen and meet Mr. Sallow at the castle doors."

***

Sebastian leaned against the stone wall, his eyes distant as he mulled over his recent failure. He had nearly succeeded in sneaking into the restricted section of the library, only to be thwarted by an interfering Gryffindor seventh-year. Fortunately, Professor Weasley had appeared just in time to save him from further trouble. Although this excursion would eat up some of his time, it was worth it to get Anne a few things from the village. Not to mention—

As if summoned by his thoughts, Darling appeared before him, her dark gold hair catching the sunlight streaming through the windows as she bounced down the stairs.

"Fancy seeing you here—" He started but she dashed by and up the other set of stairs, wand in hand, as if he was invisible. He blinked, amused. She returned a moment later, tucking something into a leather pouch inside her skirt pocket.

"Sebastian!" She said pleasantly.

A wide grin spread across his face.

"Ah, my new 'charge'"

She shot him a warning look that made him smirk. Apparently she didn't like that terminology.

"I'm told you're in dire need of supplies and I'm to accompany you. Is this your first foray into the village."

"It is!"

"Well, I should endeavour to be the very best of guides! Shall we?"

"Let's burn the breeze" she said following his lead out the doors.

Together, they stepped out into the bustling courtyard. Students laughed and shouted, some playing games while others soared through the sly on broomsticks. The picturesque mountains in the distance lent an air of enchantment to the scene.

Sebastian couldn't help but smile at the way her eyes widened as she took it all in. "I'm glad Professor Weasley asked me to join you today," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he grinned down at her.