5 March: Strange Birds: Braxton

[Deleted]

leaky --> e.l.m.

▶︎ oh little ghost, you see the pain
but together we can make something beautiful

"Hello there, Tom," Orla greeted in her quiet way, offering a clean lidded jar from home. "Could I have some gillywater to travel, please?"

"Well that depends, doesn't it," the barman replied, leaning against the bar opposite. "Where are we traveling today, Miss Orla?"

"E.L.M. - or is it elm? - and Wizards Undertakers & Embalmers. I start there this evening." She watched the look in his eyes change at the news, and was almost amused by the apparent shock. She was going on two years of short-term jobs in the wizarding quarter, and had enjoyed getting to know him on her way to and from each. Yes, all of those positions had been within Diagon Alley; trying something out in Knockturn hadn't been on her agenda, not that she really had an agenda to speak of, as it was a place she tended to veer away from. Its reputation was poor and yes, there were some shops clearly associated with dark magics, others were simply...unique.

And it wasn't like the undertaking business was a front for a necromancer. Well...it may be worth double checking that with Nadine. The witch had been friendly when Orla had inquired about the help wanted sign while on an errand for the Menagerie, and would overlap a few hours with her tonight to orient her to the space and her duties. She'd brought a book and today's Prophet to occupy herself with if it was quiet between Nadine's departure and Bernice's arrival at the witching hour, but she supposed if she wasn't satisfied with the other's answer, she could do a bit of investigating while she waited. I wonder if there's a radio, or a record player...

"The initials, it's the initials. I can't tempt you with something warmer? Or a trial position here? Nice girl like you could do well."

"We both know I'd be a disaster, but thank you, all the same - just the gillywater, please."

He took the jar with a bit of a sigh, and Orla did wonder if he was worried for anything in particular. If he was, he wasn't saying, and she traded her coin for the filled jar. "You have a good feeling about this one, then?"

"I wouldn't go if I didn't," she replied simply, granting him a small smile of encouragement. "Thank you, Tom. The soup smells especially lovely today. Is that leek?"

Orla chatted with him while he was available, contentedly perusing her book in the meantime (it was one she hoped to send to Helena, if it yielded any new information), as she waited for Braxton at the bar. Her old friend had wanted to accompany her to E.L.M.'s for her first day, kind heart that he was, even though he was busy with his own work. It was always good to see him, really, and she did hope he was as excited for this as she was. As she'd moved from shop to shop in Diagon Alley, she just hadn't found the right fit. She felt like the old woman in the muggle fairy tale, trying out porridge and beds to her satisfaction, but did hope she wasn't seen by her past employers as an unwanted disgrace like in the story. It was taking time and trials to find her place, and she did have a good feeling coming into today. If this worked, if she found a sense of fulfillment, it would be such a welcome change. And if it didn't? You've been through this before. You'll do it again.

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You’re a genius...prodigy even...when it comes to enchanting, and yet you STILL have trouble with punctuality. The now familiar voice of his obscurus snarked in the confines of his own mind, trying yet again to get a rise out of him. It had become a game nowadays, this back and forth jibing and bantering between host and parasite, which was a far cry from how this happy relationship had started back in the day. Erebus had only tried to consume his soul when he was a child. Complimenting me? You must be really eager to see her today. the wizard shot back, not fazed by his obscurus’s blatant attempt at buttering him up just so they could see their girl that much sooner. He ignored the jab about his time-keeping skills. No matter how immersed he was in his work, he’d always been on time for Orla. Besides, Erebus never let him forget.

Now behave, Parasite. Try not to get too excited and wet yourself. teasing Erebus while he locked up shop. Locking up, as in activating a dozen or so enchantments that were engraved into his door, just to keep out the people stupid enough to get in during closed hours. PARASITE?!!!! APOLOGIZE!!! the expected explosion met his ears as his obscurus shouted in outrage at the nickname. Honestly, it was the truth, and Braxton just didn’t understand why it always got such a rise out of Erebus. But it was FUN to say the least. Alright alright, I’m sorry! Happy now? mentally holding his hands up in surrender as he quickly walked down the cobble-stoned streets of Diagon Alley. The Leaky Cauldron was actually on the opposite side of Diagon Alley, but the Ravenclaw didn’t really mind the long walk there and opted for the labor instead of a more convenient way of travel. It gave him some time to clear his mind and replay the small moments of happiness in his life, memories of time spent walking alongside his oldest and dearest friend as he escorted her to whichever establishment she was currently working at. She might have been more someday, once upon a time, but Braxton had long since given up on that fantasy and elected for something more practical and obtainable. And here he was, ready to walk her to her new job in Knockturn Alley and picking her up at the end of her shift later tonight because he was worried sick that something would happen to her in the less than reputable shopping area. Even Erebus was nervous enough to not joke about it.

“I hope I haven’t kept you waiting for too long...I’ll come pick you up early, promise.” the eagle smiled crookedly at the sight of his ex-fiance, feeling his heart ache at the sight of her sitting at her usual table, flipping through a book that she likely found fascinating. You should tell her. came the usual comment

No. the same answer as always.

"So...this is the one, you think?" he genuinely hoped that she found something that called to her like his own job did to him, even if it had to be in Knockturn Alley. But hey, at least it gave him an excuse to accompany her to and from work every day.

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Orla turned in her chair at Braxton's voice - however much it had changed over the years, something within it it had always been so recognizable as his - and a smile of her own grew as he spoke. A smile like his was infectious, and besides - this was a day for another beginning, and that was something to smile about. "You don't have to do that," she replied as she tucked her book away, both to the apology and to his promise. There was no need for Braxton to be mistaken for any of the unsavory folk who skulked around in the alley at night, after all. "It's alright. I like spending time here, and I know you're busy. If you do get in early tonight, please just join me inside." 

With a wave of goodbye to Tom, she rose and started through the pub with her longtime friend. "I'll know better by the end of the night, but - yes," she asserted, even but firm. "I think this could be a worthwhile venture. It's the position most...connected to helping people that I've ever tried. I think that's what's been missing." She was no natural saleswoman, tending to be too honest about the benefits and failings of what she was supposed to be selling to have much of a positive impact in a store environment. Tending to potions or other behind-the-scenes creations left her rather alone; while socialization wasn't the most important piece of her life, and while she thankfully had Septima to see at their shared home outside of work hours, time given to an exchange of ideas was time well spent. She wanted to believe in the work that she did, for it to enhance her life rather than drain from it, and to provide meaningful service at E.L.M.'s could do just that. If her friends could find such work, so could she.

Orla drew her wand as they reached the brick wall, tapping the familiar pattern to allow them passage into Diagon Alley. The sunlight was starting to fade, shadows from the storefronts stretching out onto the cobbles, but thankfully the chill in the fresh air was stayed by her shawl, even if the slight spring breeze was keen on being too playful her loose hair. "Thank you for accompanying me," she said, reaching around to gather her hair into a twist as they walked side-by-side down the lane. "Were you at the shop or out doing a house call today?"

[Deleted]

Yeah, you have no idea how much time he spends thinking about you, girl. Busy indeed. The voice hummed happily in his mind, already back to full-on teasing mode. It had been hard, but Braxton Kael Longbottom had finally perfected his ‘internal’ eye roll whilst still keeping up with his conversations with others – if he’d rolled his eyes or suddenly said his internal dialogue out loud every time his obscurus talked to him while another human was present, he would have been sent to St. Mungo’s for brain damage a long time ago.

I’m so glad you can’t talk to other humans.  I’d be in deep sh*t otherwise.

Yet. I can’t ‘yet’.

Oh f*ck.

“No, but I want to.” And he meant it. He didn’t mind the time or effort spent on her and with her; he only wished he could do more. But with him there would always be a struggle between personal want and the knee-jerk response of keeping some semblance of distance between him and the outside world. Sure, host and parasite had come a long way since their destructive days of trying to annihilate each other, but Braxton had grown to appreciate caution and wasn’t willing to take the risk of becoming an unforgivable’s wet dream. They’d so happily tear into him and dissect him like a new unknown magical creature that could threaten the safety of countless innocents. I’m never too busy for you. “I’ll be there.” Same smile, same promise as he waved to the bartender on his way out, holding the door open for his friend before walking into step on the familiar cobbled stone road.

I’ll be there~~~~~

This pattern of him, listening patiently to her talk about her thoughts and feelings, sharing her hopes and dreams with him, was what brightened his day. Don’t’ get him wrong, he absolutely adored his job, seeing as he’d basically turned his natural talent into something that could help others while still being lucrative and beneficial to himself. But there was just something about her that made everything…well…better.

Awwwwwwwwww…you’re such a softy, Braxy~~~

You’re just jealous. The eagle grumbled in his head as he heard the cooing sound in his mind. He was lucky no one else had to hear it because it was enough to send anyone jumping off the Astronomy Tower. “You do help people…already, I mean.” And she did. Orla was one of the kindest person he knew, and anyone who knew her could attest to that. But he supposed she’d want to help people for a living and finally find a job that called to her, connected with her. “And I’ll look forward to hearing about your day when I come collect tonight.”

Pleaseeeee tell me there will be someone gruesomely murdered and mowed down today~~~~

What is wrong with you?! It’s her first day!

Yeah but I want excitement and bloodshed, not the boring ass ‘die of old-age’.

I don’t even wanna know where you pick up on these things. And to think you’re stuck in me.

Ha! Bow to my awesomeness!

Keep dreaming.

“You really are welcome…you needn’t be so formal with me, Ms. Yaxley.” Winking playfully as he walked alongside her, deciding to just ignore his obscurus for now. He should try enchanting fabric next time. Maybe he could weave some heating charms and other stuff into clothes? Protection charms too if possible. “At the shop.” Thinking back to the bloke that had walked into his shop today, requesting a permanent ‘ethereal glow’ for his engagement ring, or the old lady asking if he had ways to literally ward off the garden gnomes. People made all kinds of strange requests. It was half the fun, albeit some were just ridiculous, like wanting a pair of wings to fly. “Though a lady did want me to find some way to make the garden gnomes go away…so guess a house call is in the near future.” Ask her to go with you!!!!! Why would she wanna do that? Just ask, idiot! Fine. “Um…I don’t know if you’re interested in that but you’re welcome to come with me you know, um…different scenery in all since it’s in Wales…” he managed to choke out, looking away in embarrassment and finding the most interested owl dropping as they passed by Eeylops Owl Emporium. This was getting ugly fast.

Nicely spouted, idiot. Sputtering is your charm.

Shut up!

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"That's kind of you to say. I'm glad you feel that way," Orla returned with a smile, sliding a wooden comb through the twist to secure her flyaway hair. He had a patience with her unlike most she had encountered, never seeming to tire of her taking her time to explain herself, or urging her to hurry along and get to the point. While she appreciated his take, and was happy to infer that she had helped him as a friend, or that he did see her doing so with others, she felt a need to bring it more fully into her working life. She did try to not compare herself to others, knowing that everyone had their own path to forge in their own time - but Ted was a remarkable Healer, and Braxton's problem-solving through spellwork to help those who came to him was unparalleled. Surely she too could find a way to make a difference for people, and the opportunity at E.L.M.'s might be just what she'd been searching for.

"Mr. Longbottom," she returned in kind, green eyes bright, "whether I met you today or the day I was born, I'd thank you for doing me a favor." While most of what she had been taught in Etiquette School could be forgotten when it came to her everyday life, granting courtesy where courtesy was due had stuck with her through the years. She listened as he spoke and turned to look at him as he paused, not to rush him but to see what she could glean from his face. Brax had been speaking of work, of finding a solution beyond a simple de-gnoming...There was more going on inside than she knew, and never more keenly did she feel that than in these little moments, when his mind was working something out in private...

Why would inviting me to come along make you think like that? 

"I've heard that Wales is quite interesting this time of year," she added, her smile more bemused than anything as she hoped he'd return his look to her. "The trees are waking up and the flowers are blooming, the seabirds starting to nest. Let me know when you make a plan with your client, and as long as it's early in the day, I'd be happy to come along." 

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You know I think there’s something on your chin...not like she won’t notice you drooling at the sight of her and quit staring at her, you’re making us look bad!

Erebus nagged inside his head, making him wish, for the umpteenth time, that he’d stumbled upon a ‘quieter’ obscurus back in the day. Guess you can’t have everything. Bugger. ‘I don’t drool! And you’re one to talk, which one of us has an unhealthy fixation with her hair? Don’t pretend like I’m the only one hung up on her!’ And the bickering commenced, though Braxton was secretly grateful for the interruption, not that he would ever let Erebus know. He’d never in a million years let him live it down. Ever.

“Just pointing out the truth, Orly.” returning her smile with one of his own as they passed by Magical Instruments. You help keep me sane. Oh I’m driving you crazy? 

Hello? Brax? Braxy? BRAXTON KAE LONGBOTTOM snap the f*ck out of it!

The gray-eyed teen jumped as if he’d been hit by a stinging hex to his bum, wondering what was wrong with him today. He was still Brax...though somehow he felt like he wasn’t really into it today. He wasn’t possessed by a crazy Death Eater he was sure, seeing as Erebus would have done something about it long ago, but he didn’t feel quite like his usual self either. “It is?” croaking out weakly as looked up from the dropping, only to meet the pair of eyes that haunted him almost as long as Erebus had.

Aw, I’m flattered, honey.

'Zip it.' 

“I will.” smiling crookedly and as calmly as he could whilst keeping his internal madness under control. He was only on the brink of a nervous breakdown. No biggie. But at least she wanted to go with him.

Young love~~~

His obscurus said with a mixture of muggle grandma sigh and teenage sarcasm. Braxton wisely chose to ignore him altogether.

They'd passed by Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour without really noticing, and it was by sheer chance that the eagle noticed the inconspicuous entrance to Knockturn Alley. He really didn't like the idea of leaving Orla in this part of town, its shady reputation and dodgy tales still echoing fresh in his mind. What if something happened to her? What if something happened and he was too late to save her? He knew better than to say anything aloud - Orla was her own woman after all, and the last thing she needed was someone telling her what to do like her estranged brother, whom Braxton had never taken a liking to either. 

Protection wards?

I think I'm rubbing off on you.

[Deleted]

Orla turned her smile on Brax as he teased with that nickname for her, one so rarely used that it still amused her to hear it, and was caught in a moment of concern at the jump her friend so suddenly took. She looked around them in curiosity, wondering if he'd been hit by an accidental spark of magic from one of the children, or perhaps something more nefarious, but failed to find a cause. "Are you alright?" she asked quietly. "You look as though you've seen a ghost, and an unfriendly one at that."

Braxton didn't seem to settle much as they neared the offshoot into the secondary alleyway, although he did seem pleased enough at her acceptance of the offer of keeping him company in Wales, and Orla realized that perhaps this was what was making him so unusually jumpy. He'd been excited for her other endeavors within Diagon Alley, and she enjoyed that working in proximity allowed them time to see each other daily, but would it be that unbelievable if he wasn't as thrilled about this prospect than the others? It was a shame, really, she felt, that the undertaker's space was within Knockturn; she couldn't imagine him having a problem with the work she was pursuing, but rather with its location. She assumed that the "family friendly" nature of Diagon Alley had pushed the necessary place aside, but if The Fresh Fairy could take up shop here, with schoolchildren running about, why not E.L.M.'s?

Death was as natural a part of life as anything, was it not? It was part of the natural order of things, that all living things had their time among the living, and then their time among the dead, and the cycle continued above and below ground. Why must it be hidden away? Shuttered into an alleyway between The Coffin House and a shop she hadn't yet investigated, but appeared to be covered with webs large enough to come from Acromantulas? Containing it in the darkness, in the mystery, in the bad reputation of Knockturn Alley surely only bred confusion and fear for something that, eventually, all beings must come face-to-face with. Something to discuss with Nadine and the other witches...

"It's only a little farther, come along," Orla gently encouraged, keeping a watchful eye on her companion as she led the way into Knockturn Alley. "Do you have any appointments remaining today?"

[Deleted]

Think, think, think, Longbottom…there’s gotta be some kind of excuse. It was times like these that Brax wished his ex-fiance was slightly less observative. It would have made his life easier, though he wouldn’t have had it any other way. “Yes, sorry, just remembered I forgot to lock the door to the shop.” Real smooth, genius. Not sure if she’s buying that. “Though do not worry, there are dozens of protection wards in place so ‘locking the door’ is simply a physical labor in and of itself.” smiling reassuringly as they continued down the road. I TOLD you you need to stop shouting in my mind! See what happens?!

Contrary to what his friend thought of his knowledge of the infamously shady alley, this wasn’t the first time Brax had ventured into this part of magical Britain. No, he’d come down here quite a handful of times over the years, mostly to buy restricted books or highly illegal contraband like potion ingredients or other magical items of interest. Knowledge was just that, knowledge. There was no light or dark, only the intention of the user. Even a simple scurgify could be used for nefarious reasons should the caster feel inclined and had the creativity to think up such an application. Braxton Longbottom was not ashamed that he’d acquired books and exotic plants and animals from a few of the local suppliers. He’d put them to good use, and he’d helped many with his research and creations.

“No, I cleared the schedule.” Yeah, because he can’t focus on work when he’s worried about you. letting her lead him down the narrow road, content to just follow her to her destination while keeping a close eye on their surroundings. One could never be too careful here, where many dangers lurked in the shadows, waiting for the opportunity to pounce. “How much further?” mock whining and maybe laying it on a little too thick.

I guess this also means you don’t want her to know that you’ve been here a dozen times this week, disillusioned and setting up every known protection ward and security spell we know of in existence over the entire area?

So what if I had? I know she’s very capable…but I can’t…I can’t risk her getting hurt.

Me neigther.

“Thanks for indulging me and letting me come with you.” smiling her smile as he fell into step beside her. Hopefully it would be a smooth first day at work for her. 

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Orla did not care to be wary around her close friends, her found family. Braxton, Septima, Ted, Andromeda - there was no need for secrets among them. So it was an unfamiliar feeling, this suspicion in her toes, that followed Brax's explanation. For in what dimension would the shop owner have forgotten to lock the door? When so much of what he devoted his services to was security? She tucked the moment away, something to bring up with Septima in the morning or, if her roommate was still up, in the wee hours after she returned from E.L.M.'s. Orla smiled as he went on, his evening open - until midnight when she was through, that is.

They curved into Knockturn Alley, the walls narrowed and sloping as they exited the thoroughfare, and she could feel the curious tension emanating from her old friend heighten as they descended. Still looking around the relatively-new-to-her-space herself, Orla looped her arm through his, hoping to settle his nerves. "It isn't far - around the next bend, across from Borgin & Burke's. Just not as showy." There were witches and wizards around, busy about their business, just as they were in the upper street. They were carrying wares not found above, certainly, and some had a rather bleaker affect than she was accustomed to, but Orla wasn't worried. Spreading broad judgement and generalizations would do no one any good, after all. Her new employer could have taken one look at her last name and turned her away after all, not trusting that a Yaxley could honestly want to serve. There were good people to be found here, doing good work. If more of them came, they could make the best of things, spruce as they came...

"Of course," she said, returning the smile he gave, one that didn't quite mask his worried eyes. "Our traditions are worth keeping. But I hope you can go home and have dinner now. And relax. I'll be fine here, and I will see you tonight." She fixed him in her sight, hoping he could trust her at her word. Looking out for her came from a place of kindness, Orla knew. But these were her choices to make, to experience, and whether tonight was a triumph or a sign that she had misjudged things - she would take it as it came, and press forward. These two years out of Hogwarts and away from her family had been nothing short of remarkable; with each trial, with each failed position, she learned more about what it was she needed, and could grow farther away from the girl who hadn't questioned her grandfather's tall tales. No one else was responsible for her - no one had to worry.