Aconitum: Part 1

Hogsmeade weekends are Valeria’s favourite thing about being a witch at Hogwarts (aside from all the fascinating subjects, of course), especially with layers of snow perched on the rooftops. It reminds her of life back in France - a normal life she did not have - with the little thatched cottages and neighbourly feel, a fairytale of sorts. Needless to say, the book-lover frequents Tomes and Scrolls (though she enjoys Scrivenshaft’s Quill Shop almost just as much), however, today, she is here strictly for business.

A small bell sounds as Valeria steps into the specialist bookshop, cautiously closing the brown wooden door behind her. Removing her hat and rubbing her icy hands together, she walks towards the counter, seemingly looking for someone. Upon hearing her enter, a small, plump figure appears from behind what seemed to be an infinity of bookshelves.

“Why, Miss Géroux, how lovely to see you. Looking for more resources again, I presume?”

“No, not today, Mr. Woodcroft.”

Cerulean eyes glancing towards the back room - where Mr. Woodcroft usually stores his antiquities - Valeria speaks of her true intent for this wintery afternoon.

“Actually, I’m here to retrieve something I left behind last month." After I met Lysander, she mentally adds.

The old man’s hazel eyes widen with a slight glimmer. "Oh yes, of course! How time flies. Right this way, dear.”

Nodding a thank you to her old friend, she promptly follows, unaware of the lanky shadow lurking outside, following her.