Giffard Abbott
Chapter 29
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Giffard Abbott was a sixteenth century pure-blood wizard and nobleman. He attended Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry when he was young and was sorted into Hufflepuff. Abbott was known to sneak into the Hogwarts kitchens after hours in order to get his midnight snack. If he heard anyone approaching, he’d simply run back to the Hufflepuff common room. He was also known to sneak into the Forbidden Forest because he enjoyed the feeling of being in nature. Though he would quickly regret it the moment he ran into trouble, he didn’t hesitate to go back into the forest instead of learning his lesson, and sometimes he brought his friends with him.
After graduating from Hogwarts, Abbott became enthralled with Muggles, more specifically the Muggle nobility. Being the high-energy and outgoing person that he was, Abbott quickly made friends with noblemen around his age and was soon included in their social circles. His favorite Muggle activity was hunting, as he enjoyed the thrill and adventure of heading out into the woods with his new friends. Eventually, Abbott adopted a greyhound named Talbot, who became his best friend and companion, to accompany him on his hunts. The two were an unstoppable team together and eventually he became more and more known by Muggle nobility.
Due to his influence with Muggle nobility, Abbott was eventually invited to royal parties and gatherings. During one such event, in particular a masque, he met Damara Dodderidge, a witch who similarly enjoyed attending Muggle social outings. The two hit it off immediately and became fast friends due to their similar circumstances. They were reported meeting fairly often after their initial meeting, and eventually Abbott’s and Dodderidge’s relationship became a romantic one.
After his death, Abbott’s portrait was hung in the Grand Staircase, though it was moved to different landings every couple of years. He is pictured dressed as a nobleman with Talbot by his side. He is often seen either talking or playing with Talbot. Dodderidge also visits his portrait frequently, alluding to their friendship while they were alive, though most often the purpose of her visits were to ask for the food she was craving. Even as an adult and a portrait, Abbott keeps a stash of snacks, though no one is quite sure where since they aren’t visible within the portrait’s frame.