Sorry about the long delay. My computer deleted the document so I had to start over.
Preston kept his promise, he and Maria lived happily for many years and visited her grandmother many times during the years until her death 6 years later. Even when he and Maria fought it was never for very long. Preston could always cheer her up when she was sad by changing to his animagus form. The day finally arrived when Maria was accepted into Veneficus School for Witches and Wizards. She was 12 and would turn 13 a little before she entered the school. Almost every wizard in America went there and Preston taught there along with Miles, Addison, and Herbert. She was ecstatic to receive her letter. Alley, Preston's old and loving owl flew through the window carrying her letter.
"Thanks, old pal." Preston said affectionately petting the owl.
"Dear Maria Waksma," She read proudly "We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted into Veneficus School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. Attached below are the school supplies and train boarding information. The train will leave from the Ohio Valley Train Co. in Cincinnati on September 1st. We look forward to having you as one of our students. Until September 1st. Sincerely Herbert Radul headmaster, and Miles Hitchem assistant headmaster."
"What's on your school list?" Preston asked.
"Standard Book of Spells Year 1 by Monica Blasthm. A brass or platinum cauldron, a pair of dragon hide gloves, standard set of robes (black), a pointed black hat (to be worn at special occasions), a wand, and students are allowed to bring either an owl, cat, or dog. When will we be going to get these?" Maria asked.
"We'll go today. I need to meet Miles and Addison anyway."
"What for?"
"School related business. Too much to explain." Soon after breakfast the two dissaparated to a city outside of Cincinnati. They arrived at an old looking Bar and Grille called The Bat Juice. Maria and Preston had been here before. They would often eat lunch here and Preston would go through the shortcut to get to Magus Street where Preston would take out money he needed for the school year. Preston and Maria stepped inside.
"Ah, hello Preston. Isn't it a bit early for you two to come in for lunch?" The tender asked checking his pocket watch.
"I'm afraid we won't be dining in today. We need to get Maria's school supplies." Preston replied
"Oh, that's right. She'll be starting this year. Are you excited, dear?"
"Yes, I can't wait until it begins." The tender smiled at her.
"Ah, yes. Everyone's excited to first begin. It's a wonderful experience."
"Well we need to be going. Nice to see you Howard." Preston replied as he walked toward a door in the back.
"Goodbye, and good luck Maria." Howard called out. Maria always wondered how no muggles entered into the grille.
"Dad?" she asked
"Yes, dear?" He said taking his wand out.
"How come muggles never come into The Bat Juice?"
"There is a shielding charm on the outside. To muggles it appears as an old building that is no longer open. The school appears the same way too. There is a sign on it that claims the building is dangerous and to keep out. If someone tries to be adventurous a charm will cause illusions to look like the building is falling apart."
"Oh." Maria simply replied as she watched Preston tap the bricks on the wall with his wand. The wall separated and revealed a small shopping area with stores on both sides.
"Are you ready my dear?" Preston asked as he looked at Maria's wide eyed face. She simply nodded looking around in amazement.
"Off we go." He said as he led her into Magus Street.