The last time he had been here, Hugh was about half the height he had grown to be. His uncle was with him that time. An important event, given that the man never set foot in Diagon Alley again after this. They were specifically looking for a small companion for Hugh at the time. So he wouldn't end up alone. It was quite ironic that this event had led him back here in the end.

Sir Veylance had been a nice enough friend. A cat like all other cats. Though, through the years he stayed away for longer periods of time. At first, Hugh blamed Galton's shenanigans with his own cat. How would you feel if someone of your own kind was repeatedly and forcefully shaven in front of you. It did not come as a surprise when Sir Veylance eventually stayed away for good.

Maybe some other mean kid got to him in the end. Or he wandered too far off the grounds and got himself snatched by some creature from their monster books. Either way, the cat was gone. And what did surprise Hugh was the fact that the cat's absence left a hole in him. In their own way, he and his pet had an understanding. He had the bed at night, and the cat could have all day long. Like a simple contract. He just had to ruin it by leaving permanently.

So here he was then. Apparently feeling hurt enough to come looking for a replacement. Was it going to be another cat? It did not feel right. Besides, while Vey and him had an understanding, he could use a bit more loyalty this time. Someone to follow him into the unknown after graduation. Someone he could trust to always have his back.

That's when his eyes fell on a little guy somewhere in the midst of all the other creatures the old couple took care of in the menagerie. He wasn't making a fuss like the rest of them. The little half-crup sat silently among his brothers and sisters. He just stared, and Hugh stared back. An instant understanding between the two of them. It looked like Hugh had found his new companion.

After a long, long pause, and the elderly couple awkwardly standing next to them watching. The older gentleman asked if they could help Hugh with something. The half-giant smiled, pointed and turned to them.
"I'll take care of that one."

410/400 words

What animal do you wish to purchase? Wexford Half-Crup
What do you want to name it? Sarge
Is this a boy or a girl? Boy
What is your pet's date of birth? 30th of March 2024

Pet Granted

Look after Sarge well.