xmarlenegrant

[xmarlenegrant]

Marlene wouldn't say she gave particularly good advice. More often than not she was sarcastic, or simply curious. It seemed to usually work out, though.

Perhaps she could be lucky on occasion.

It was nice to see that something of what she had said seemed to have ease a little of the tension in Layla. It was nice to see an actual smile, and to get proper answers. Layla wasn't stupid, but Marlene wondered if sometimes she just focused on one thing that she couldn't see the forbidden forest for the trees.

The witch said none of that though, keeping a steady and warm smile on her features and then simply giving a nod. Layla would be fine. From how she was speaking, Marlene was assuming her family life was pretty good. Sure, things were a little tense now - but come term starting, her parents would still be sad to see her go, and there would still be care packages and letters sent through the term.

"Of course I think it's good. It's a great idea." Beauty was something many people dreamed of and worked for. Even those born beautiful seemed to scramble to keep themselves that way. Getting into the skincare business seemed like a good idea. ...And she would refrain from telling Layla that a certain Tugwood witch was thinking along the same lines.

"Nothing good ever happens quickly - or so I hear. I'm not entirely sure that's correct. But I do get that sometimes you have to work really hard for the ending you want," she added, her smile faltering for just a second before coming back brighter. It was a swift movement, and Marlene hoped Layla didn't notice. "You'll get there. But perhaps it's best to let things cool off - or like I say, maybe some research first."

And the research idea did seem to work. Her own smile was a little cheerier now. She'd spent so long in Hogsmeade lately she was feeling cooped up. However, getting to spend time with a friend did make her feel a whole lot better. It would be nice to converse with someone who wasn't a shopkeeper, or simply sending post to Natty and Poppy.

"Absolutely. Something sweet is definitely a weakness of mine," Marlene said with amusement, "And if you're finished with your butterbeer, then shall we? I know the owner of Lunar Lore. She's out today, I think, but her assistant is helpful. I think she'll be able to help us find some good books. We can try Pippins and Dogwood as well." So many places, so many books, so many recipes... "Mind you, Pippins and Dogwood can be on the pricier side - which is why I recommend Lunar first. It has secondhand recipes and books. Slightly on the cheap."

Layla wasn't sure what she wanted. There was no quick or simply fix for her problems. And she wondered if Marlene had tried to advice or fix things if it would have irritated her more - did she not think she had tried to reason or negotiate, for example?

Instead, Marlene seemed to commiserate and accept her annoyance - and think ahead to the future.

And, actually, wasn't it rather nice to hear that someone who seemed so oddly proficient and attuned with magic was telling her that her thoughts and process was impressive? It was kind of nice, actually. It did not cause Layla to fully thaw, but it did help with the process. Ever so slightly. She could even feel a smile growing across her features.

She sighed, and then nodded. "I know. They're right to be upset. It was stupid. And thinking on it, I know my mistake - for me it always comes down to accidentally stirring clockwise or counter-clockwise, I always get it wrong." A shake of her head, red hair fluttering around her face, framing her paleness.

Another sigh. "It was just stupid and I think that's annoyed me more." But... but... "Thanks." Her smile was now more natural. "You really think it that good? I know others have tried similar things, but I do think I'm on to something. I'd just gotten started on pimple cream before - and I'm wondering about working on something for ones complexion..." She wrinkled her nose, thinking about it - a recipe scrolling before her eyes. "I WILL get it right. Some day. It won't stop me from trying, no, but it's just a bit rubbish right now. That's all."

Things hadn't magically resolved themselves, but Layla did find she felt slightly better. Maybe talking about things really could be helpful on occasion. Definitely it had helped that Marlene hadn't immediately jumped in with solutions or laughed at her. It was an idiotic situation to be in, but it did mean something to her.

"You know, a look around the bookstores would be kind of nice. I've gotten all my school supplies - even my cauldron, as my parents remind me," she said, with an actual soft scoffing laugh (a little embarrassed, but slowly coming out of her annoyance). "Maybe a little pick-me-up of ice cream or a cup of tea and cake wouldn't go amiss either," Layla added, amusement truly in her tone now. "If you're happy to go now, we can take a wander - and I'll owe you a butterbeer when we finish up."

[xmarlenegrant]

Marlene would never have said she was a lonely child, for that didn’t seem quite right. She had travelled frequently with her parents or had been left with extended family, and the constant moving had made it difficult to maintain lengthy connections. But Marlene fancied she was a friendly sort and usually was able to make some sort of friendship wherever she was. There were always kids her age somewhere to be found.

However, inevitably, the friendships ended as she was brought to travel with her parents or sent back home. There was always the excited babble of sending letters or owls to one another, sometimes said through tears and as she grew older, said with a knowing smile. An extra element of the goodbye process.

That had changed. She had never really been in one place for as long as she had been at Hogwarts. Marlene had made Hogwarts and Hogsmeade her home, and found she was excited and somewhat nervous to be maintaining friendships. It was a strange new feeling. When people said they would keep in touch, they did - and so did she! There was no real fear she’d be dragged away, there was a happy anticipation for the next time she would see everyone.

There was a tiny element of fear, also. Was she the only one excited? The only one who valued the friendships to this extent? Marlene knew everyone else had had four years of making friends… she was behind from the start. There was a soft, gnawing worry that perhaps the friendships meant more to her and—

The delight and warmth in Poppys tone, and that amazing smile, made Marlene’s day. The worries simply melted away - how could she have thought of her friends, her family, in such a way?

A bright laugh bubbled up and escaped her, as Poppy took her hands in her own.

"Yes, and it's good to see you too, Poppy," she said through her laughter, meaning her words fully. She was certain she'd missed some of what Poppy had said, but the meanings and intents were all clear. "Really. It's felt like forever," Marlene exaggerated, then burst into laughter again.

Straightening up, back under some kind of control, she found herself smiling warmly. "Really, it has just seemed to lag. I looked forward to all your owls. Poor things - flying so far back and forth all the time."

Now, really, what had Poppy been saying? Right. Hogsmeade. Shopping. "Wow, shopping for school items. Rather a tame thing for us to be doing. Of course, the first time I really shopped here for supplies, a troll attacked me and Sebastian." Yes. All those fond memories. "But hey, it's not going to happen this time. Really, it won't. Ah, you were saying something about wool?" Why did that somehow make her nervous...

Having been living in Hogsmeade for almost two weeks now, she knew her way around incredibly well and began to walk. Textbooks first - they were heavy and expensive, but they could drop them off in her room and it'd be good to have them out the way. Or potion ingredients first? "Books or ingredients? Let's get that out the way - then we can stop for food. And really catch up."

The delighted smile on Poppy's face grew quickly; it was warm and happy, friendly and familiar. It did not surprise the young Hufflepuff to see her good friend Marlene in Hogsmeade, for their many, many owls had informed her of the fact that her friend was staying in Hogsmeade in the lead up to the new school term.

That didn't mean she was any less happy to see her.

"I thought I would have to spend ages searching for you! I just got here," she remarked, as though it were wonderful thing. In some ways it was. Truly, it was just nice to see such a good friend. That was all.

As she'd recognised and spoken to Marlene, the brunette had crossed the distance between them. Her hands out and took hold of Marlene's own, a strange but familiar shake of them before letting go.

"It really is good to see you. I've tried to keep you up to date with my owls, and I know you've tried telling me things oh but-- it just isn't the same is it? It's hardly the same as actually talking and discussing things." But it was better than nothing, and Poppy had enjoyed their little talks through through their letters.

"I've almost got everything I need for the school term - but there's a couple of textbooks I need, and some new ingredients for potions. I'd also like to restock on some supplies for the magical beasts, oh, and grab some wool! There's a store here with wool that changes colour - oh, not that that is too unusual, but it's meant to be super soft! The USUAL enchantment for that makes the wool so coarse normally."

She was babbling. And she knew it. But she was happy and it was hardly as though Marlene would judge her. Smiling simply, she brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. A soft sigh, an intake of breath, and "Firstly. How are you?"

closed started for @xmarlenegrant

[xmarlenegrant]

Ominis: Hello, Sebastian! Wait...

MC: *stays silent in french*

[xmarlenegrant]

Hogsmeade was almost her second home. It was a place with both fond and not so fond memories. How could she ever forget her first experience in Hogwarts? Fighting a troll was rather unusual for most people. Honestly, it was exhilarating and something she could have done without. However, considering it had helped her gain the respect of a few shopkeepers and residents in the area, she was happy just to let the story make the rounds. It was useful.

Admittedly, it was a little strange residing in a room above the Three Broomsticks. And strange not to be here for drinks or shopping with friends. When was the last time she'd seen Poppy or Natty? Or heard from Sebastian-- Well, she'd see how things would go from here.

Marlene knew her way around the area well, and was getting to know the shopkeepers. Maya was interesting. Her background, in some ways, was similar to her own. Or perhaps her parents. A certain love for the past and it's oddities.

Plus, she rather liked bookshops.

"Just wondering if the textbooks had arrived?" she remarked, mirroring Maya with her own grin. "Nothing too unusual or out the ordinary today. I promise."

Mostly she was just wandering around. Soon, other students would arrive and she could feel her excitement and fondness for her friends grow. It would be good to see everyone.

Tea was maybe just what she needed. Tea and a chat - good distractions.

"That would be lovely, thank you," she remarked, heading further inside. "I think that's just what I need."

It had not gone unnoticed by the young one - those movements of hiding the papers. Perhaps just the finances for the store, or an order form. Perhaps something else. Marlene was sure there was more to meet the eye here. Maya had been able to secure books on the Dark Arts so easily. And there were whispers...

"Has it been busy lately? I'm certainly seeing more students arriving... The place is getting packed. And I hear someone knocked over a few stands in Zonko's yesterday. I'm sorry I missed it, I hear there a few explosions. Rather, uh, colourful."

closed starter

"Back again, are you?" Maya glanced up from the sheaf of parchments she was rifling through, sending @xmarlenegrant a smile.

An unusual customer, this one. Half the time seemingly unsure of what she was looking for, and the other time on an incessant hunt. A wide range of topics as well, from beasts and poachers, to being stealthily handed a book on the Dark Arts. Not something Maya normally, or ever, planned on giving to a student, but this one had proven a good level of self control and good intent.

Besides, the book had been more of a history on the topic than a guide.

"Whilst I enjoy your company, there are other stores around here, young witch," she continued, straightening up and in a smooth movement putting the parchments into her desk drawer. "I sometimes wonder whether your frequent custom is beneficial or a hindrance."

All said with good nature. Of course.

Truthfully, Maya had no issues with Marlene and had a fair amount of respect for her. Sharing a small book on the background of Dark Arts was one sign of this respect. Marlene seemed quite capable, and was good for a chat as well. Somehow always knew the gossip. People opened up to her, Maya supposed. Hadn't she done the same?

"I was actually about to brew some tea. Are you here to shop, or just for a look around? You're welcome to join me."

[xmarlenegrant]

Marlene had to admit that during her first year at Hogwarts, she'd seemed to get involved in a lot of strange things. Putting aside the discovery of a certain ancient magical talent, and a potential goblin uprising... It seemed everyone at Hogwarts had annoyances and grievances, problems and brain teasers. After all, why wouldn't they? Marlene's last year had been eventful but it was mostly through sheer luck - both good and bad. She had not chosen or earned the innate talent she had, though she'd had to work hard to hone it afterwards.

Of course Layla had her own issues. And she was entitled to feel annoyed. Was it something Marlene would have been overly fussed about? ...Well, no. But potions wasn't her major talent, and her parents didn't own many things of value that were actually used. Or useful.

Marlene's expression softened, a slight smile on her face. Curious, amused, but ready to listen or perhaps offer advice. She would tread around and see what Layla required. It didn't often hurt to be kind and helpful - and usually it came with advantages or people ready to help out when you were in a pinch. Making friends had truly saved her arse before.

"But for you it is a problem," she summarised, giving a slight nod. Marlene reached up, brushing a loose strand of her behind one ear and giving the softest of hums. "Truly, it is a problem. It is good the potion didn't come near people, but I'm guessing the cauldron was something used pretty regularly? Or pretty important to the family then?"

Cauldrons could be pricey. Poor Layla.

"That truly is bad luck and frustrating," she remarked, for there was no immediate solution to give her. "I'm impressed with what you were able to do though, and what you were trying to make! Potions cauldrons are hard to burn through. And a potion like that would be really useful!" She gave a soft laugh, adding, "And know this at least, Garreth has done far worse. Perhaps he can give you some tips - though maybe do the opposite of his suggestions. I don't suppose much can be done now about the money situation. But I do need to buy some new recipes and ingredients myself. Perhaps a bookstore in town might have some helpful hints in how to amend your potion?"

"After all," Marlene grinned, "I'm sure that one setback is not enough to stop you?" Her expressions softened again as she added, "And parents are often upset. They were probably just worried. About you. And what MIGHT have happened. This will blow over, I know it."

It was rather annoying, that was all.

A simple mistake, perhaps. But annoying and aggravating and truly just mindboggling.

She had always been so good with--

The redhead blinked, a spell broken as she turned sharply and looked up at those inquisitive eyes of Marlene. Of course she knew Marlene. What an entrance to make last year. And throughout the year, she'd seemed so intent on exploring ever inch, nook and cranny, of the castle. Layla had come upon Marlene more than once through the school term. An odd study session in the library, a couple of times sat with one another during a meal. The older girl usually kept to her own year group or house. Friends wasn't a real stretch, but there was certainly a lot she did not know about Marlene and-- and she was blonde now? Suited her.

A sigh, and a soft shake of her head. Now that the spell was broken, her problem seemed insignificant.

Still annoying though.

She took a sip of her butterbeer (not entirely flat, but getting to a lukewarm stage). "It sounds ridiculous to say it aloud now," she muttered, with a soft pout. Layla glanced to Marlene, sighed again and then said, "Of course it's good to be going back. Home life is-- crowded. Tiring. And my folks aren't all that impressed with me."

"It's really so stupid but-- Well, okay, I perhaps managed to somehow burn a hole in a good family cauldron. I was only trying out a new recipe. Not even an offensive potion, merely something to assist with skin care." A soft, almost grunt-like sound (maybe one day it would be a laugh). "Good thing I didn't put the stuff on anyone's skin..."

A shake of her head, some red strands of hair coming loose from her messy bun. "My parents are, uh... well not too pleased. I'm having to buy a new cauldron out of my own savings. Which isn't a lot. I'm borrowing from the bank of mum and dad. And I had wanted--" A shake of her head. Wanting to buy new books (and a new broom) was insignificant.

Layla raised her arms into a slight shrug, "See? Not a real problem. For others." A drink of that warmish butterbeer.

[xmarlenegrant]

Hogwarts in Spring 🌷✨🌱📚

[xmarlenegrant]

closed starter;; @thelaylacooper

"You know, Butterbeer is safe for consumption. Usually. But the way you've been glaring at that glass, I think it's apt to have gone flat."

It wasn't unusual or surprising that Marlene had managed to find a fellow Hogwarts student within Hogsmeade. Most everyone seemed to be here these days; gathering supplies for the new year, or trying to make the most of those final, glorious days of sunshine.

It seemed about right that she should should run into someone within the Three Broomsticks. It was where the best people went, after all - though she could recall far too many unpleasant and odd moments in the pub as well as the good.

For the next few days, until term began, the Broomsticks was where Marlene was staying. Her parents were gone again. Flying off (perhaps literally) around the globe. It was fine. She was used to it in a way. Besides, her last year at Hogwarts had led to her finding that odd thing - a found family. Of sorts. ...There were perhaps a few that were more an annoyance, or that 'odd' one in the family.

Had Layla made the cut into the group yet? No, perhaps not. Not yet. But Marlene still could remember a few chats and study sessions with the Ravenclaw. She seemed bright. And able to speak to people. Marlene could appreciate that, greatly.

The currently blonde soon-to-be-sixth-year slid onto the stool next to her friend, soft smile on her face. And perhaps a little worry. Or curiosity. A mix of both. Something seemed not quite right. However did she always seem to find people in need of dire assistance? She ought to start charging for help - some sort of private detective perhaps. ...But that thought was shaken from her head and she focused on her fellow student. "Are you alright, Layla? I know this time of year sometimes brings on doom and gloom for some. But normally, well... isn't going back to Hogwarts a good thing?"

[xmarlenegrant]

starter call!

I am here and ready and willing to write!

[xmarlenegrant]

roleplaying blog for marlene grant (original take on main character from hogwarts legacy). attached to @shroudedinsmoke roleplaying group.

further information can be found here.