by Emily Spencer » Tue Sep 28, 2021 5:49 am
When I started out on my quest to find hags suitable for hanging out with, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. But following Gilderoy's footsteps seemed like a worthy venture, so off I went to do just that. Luck was with me that day, and I had not traveled very far before I came across a lovely group of four hags who immediately took notice of me. Not one to shy away from adventure, I boldly stepped forth and introduced myself.
Surprisingly, we got along very well. Velma, Gertrude, Olivia, and Prudence were quite friendly once I got past the 'we-eat-children-for-breakfast' phase. Granted, they were quite insistent on me stuffing myself with honeycakes, chocolate bon-bons, caramel fudge, and treacle tart while we chatted, but I think that was just their way of making me feel welcome. No, I don't think they were fattening me up for the slaughter, but I can understand why you might think that. Although, it really is a shame that they are judged so harshly just because they look like the Muggle version of witches in all those silly stories.
We spent the day quite peacefully. I even helped them gather mushrooms, wild onions, and various herbs for a stew they were making for dinner that evening. Velma informed me that it was a party for me; I was the guest of honor and everything! I tell you, hags are so misunderstood! Kinder creatures you would never find. They even wrapped me up snuggly in a thick blanket when the air started to chill. Prudence assured me that the rope binds were merely to keep the blanket from falling off my shoulders.
Alas, it was not to be. Hags are also fickle creatures, it seems. We heard the sound of children laughing and off they went, leaving me all alone. When they came back, they fell asleep immediately, groaning in contentment. The stew, the party, and I were all but forgotten. I managed to untie my bindings and slipped back to school, leaving them in their slumber. I will never forget my experience, so thank you, Gilderoy, for prompting me to take the chance.