The morning air was crisp and full of possibilities as Luna and Xeno made their way to Diagon Alley. Luna's excitement was palpable, and Xeno, though focused, couldn't help but share in her enthusiasm. The alley was bustling with witches and wizards, their voices a blend of excitement and business. Luna's eyes widened at the sight of magical shop signs and curious items displayed in the windows.
Their first stop was Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. Inside, Luna was greeted by a cheerful witch who guided her to a fitting room lined with various robes. Luna tried on several sets: plain black work robes, a winter cloak with silver fastenings, and a pointed hat. Each garment seemed to shimmer with magic as she twirled in front of the mirror, delighting in the feeling of the fabric against her skin.
"You look absolutely charming in those robes, dear," the shopkeeper said, adjusting the cloak's fastenings. "This black winter cloak is just the right touch of elegance and warmth."
Luna smiled. "Thank you! I really like the way it feels. It's like I'm wrapped in magic."
The shopkeeper nodded approvingly. "Well, we want our young witches and wizards to feel comfortable and confident. These robes should serve you well at Hogwarts."
Xeno looked over the robes with a critical eye. "These will do nicely. You'll need to make sure they're all properly labeled with your name."
Luna nodded, her face glowing with satisfaction. "I can't wait to wear them to Hogwarts."
Next, they headed to Ollivanders, the wand shop known for its enchanting and mysterious atmosphere. The shop was narrow and cluttered, with shelves overflowing with wands of all shapes and sizes. The air was thick with the scent of old wood and magic.
As Luna entered Ollivanders, her heart quickened. She knew that finding the right wand was more than just a formality—it was a rite of passage. Mr. Ollivander's shop was a treasure trove of wand lore, each wand holding the potential for greatness. The anticipation was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. She wondered what kind of wand would choose her, and whether it would align with her inner self.
"Ah, Luna Lovegood," said Mr. Ollivander as he emerged from the back, his eyes twinkling behind his spectacles. "I've been expecting you."
Mr. Ollivander led Luna to a small area where he began selecting wands from the shelves. One by one, Luna tried different wands—each with a different core and wood type. The wands felt warm or cool in her hand, but none seemed to be a perfect fit. She felt a flicker of disappointment each time a wand failed to resonate with her.
Finally, Mr. Ollivander presented her with a wand made of ancient, polished elder wood. "This one is a rare choice," he said. "It contains phoenix feather and thestral hair. The combination of these materials suggests a wand of great power and subtlety, one suited for someone with a strong sense of destiny and rebirth."
Luna took the wand in her hand, feeling an immediate connection. The wand hummed softly, and a gentle spark of light flickered at its tip. It felt right—powerful, yet finely attuned to her own essence. As she held it, Luna's thoughts swirled. The idea of rebirth was profound and unsettling. It resonated with her own sense of having a new beginning in this world, a chance to redefine herself and embrace her destiny. Yet, it also reminded her of the weight of expectation and the path she was destined to follow.
"This is it," Luna said, her voice filled with awe and a touch of vulnerability. "It feels like it was made for me."
Mr. Ollivander smiled, recognizing the depth of Luna's connection to the wand. "Indeed. It seems you have found your wand. It is a good match for someone embarking on a significant journey."
With her wand in hand, Luna and Xeno continued their shopping. They made their way to the Apothecary, where Luna picked out various potion supplies, including essential ingredients like unicorn horn, powdered Bicorn horn, and drachm of Flobberworm mucus. The shopkeeper helped her select the right items, and Luna felt a sense of accomplishment with each choice.
Their next stop was the Cauldron shop. Luna and Xeno entered, and the interior was a bustling hive of activity, filled with cauldrons of all sizes and types. As they browsed, Luna's attention was drawn to a sleek, pewter cauldron. She was examining it when she heard a familiar voice.
"Trying to find the perfect cauldron, are we?"
Luna turned to see Severus Snape standing nearby, his dark eyes scrutinizing her. The Potions Master's presence was intimidating, and Luna felt a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
"Yes, sir," Luna said, trying to sound confident. "I'm preparing for my first year at Hogwarts."
Snape raised an eyebrow. "A good quality cauldron is essential for brewing potions. I trust you're aware that not all cauldrons are created equal?"
"Yes, sir. I've been trying to choose one that will be durable and effective."
Snape examined the cauldron she was holding. "This one is adequate for a beginner. However, you might want to consider the more advanced options if you plan on engaging in complex potion-making."
Luna nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Thank you for the advice, Professor. I'll keep that in mind."
Snape gave a curt nod and walked away, his robes billowing behind him. Luna exchanged a look with Xeno, who gave her a reassuring smile.
After purchasing the cauldron and other necessary items—glass phials, a telescope, and brass scales—they decided to visit Gringotts.
Inside the grand marble hall of Gringotts, Luna and Xeno approached a goblin clerk at one of the counters.
"We'd like to speak with the Lovegood account manager," Xeno said.
The goblin nodded and gestured for them to follow.