Capítulo 9: Diagon Alley
Waking up the next day, Artel received his daily attire from Sophia. He dressed in a white shirt, brown vest, brown suit, adorned with a gold pocket watch, and a newsboy cap featuring concealed razor blades. He completed his outfit with a pair of shiny leather shoes.
After breakfast, Artel joined Jimmy in the car. They were headed to London, a journey that would take a little over two hours. To ensure Artel's safety, a few gunmen would follow their car. Michael Shelby wanted to ensure Artel's security, given that he was the youngest wizard in the Shelby family.
Initially, Michael had considered assigning a larger group for Artel's protection, but Artel declined. To reassure Michael and Jimmy, Artel summoned a skeleton creature and demonstrated its power. He had it cut down a large tree on the manor grounds, showcasing the creature's strength. Impressed and slightly unnerved, Michael and Jimmy reduced the number of gunmen, leaving only a few elite guards, as Artel also emphasized Jimmy's need for protection.
The journey proceeded without incident, free from any attacks or attempts on Artel's life. By the time Artel arrived on Charing Cross Road, it was already ten-thirty in the morning.
Artel was more relaxed as they reached London, understanding that Jimmy had connections there. Jimmy had a lover in London, so after a brief conversation with Artel, he departed with a few of his younger associates.
Artel took a leisurely stroll along the street and soon spotted the Leaky Cauldron, a magical establishment that stood out from its mundane surroundings. However, he chose not to enter the pub and instead noticed a bookstore on a nearby corner. As the time drew near, Artel arrived at the designated location and spotted Professor McGonagall.
Following her were a couple and a young wizard. Artel was slightly surprised when he saw the young wizard was Hermione.
Professor McGonagall also noticed Artel and waved to him. Artel calmly walked over.
"I informed Mr. Granger that you would be waiting here for us," Professor McGonagall said with a smile.
"I've just arrived. It's good to see you again, Professor McGonagall."
"That's Mr. Granger, his wife, and this is Miss Granger. Like you, she's a young wizard starting at the school this year."
Professor McGonagall introduced Artel, and he nodded to the three.
"Hello, pleased to meet you, Mr. Granger, Mrs. Granger. I'm Artel, Artel Shelby."
"Mr. Shelby, it's a pleasure to meet you," Mr. Granger replied with a smile. Mrs. Granger, beside him, nodded and added, "Professor McGonagall told us about you. She mentioned that you're quite the young gentleman, and I can see that's true."
Hermione, too, looked at the same-aged wizard before her with a mixture of pride and curiosity in her eyes. She extended her hand and introduced herself.
"Hi, I'm Hermione."
"Hello, Miss Hermione. Nice to meet you."
With a respectful nod, Artel exchanged pleasantries with Hermione.
"Let's focus on our task for today. We have quite a lot to accomplish."
Seeing that Artel was familiar with everyone, Professor McGonagall's tone turned more serious. She led the group to the entrance of the Leaky Cauldron. Thanks to Professor McGonagall's magic, the Granger family could perceive the concealed entrance and join Artel in entering the magical pub.
"I swear, I've passed by here before, and I've never seen this bar."
Mr. Granger expressed his surprise, his understanding of magic expanding.
"Let's enter."
Professor McGonagall guided the group into the pub, where numerous wizards greeted her with smiles. After acknowledging everyone, she led them to the back courtyard of the establishment.
"Remember this spot. Once you have your wands, you'll be able to access Diagon Alley on your own."
Professor McGonagall instructed Artel and Hermione before using her wand to tap three times on a set of bricks that appeared to be part of a trash can.
"Wow!"
Hermione exclaimed as the brick wall transformed into an archway, revealing the enchanting sight of Diagon Alley.
"This is Diagon Alley. Our next destination is Gringotts, the goblin bank."
As the Muggle currency held little value for wizards, the Grangers exchanged five hundred pounds for one hundred golden Galleons under the goblins' scrutiny.
....
Although the Grangers were adults, they seemed like children in Diagon Alley, marveling at every magical shop and feature.
"First, let's visit the wand shop. I'm sure you don't want to be walking around with cauldrons, brass scales, and a pile of books without having your wands."
Professor McGonagall led them to the entrance of a small and weathered shop. The sign above the door was faded but still readable.
Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands Since 382 BC
"Professional Wand Fitting, 2000."
Artel murmured to himself as he observed the sign. He followed Professor McGonagall into the renowned wand shop.
The store was vacant, and its space felt a bit cramped. There was a bench in the corner, where Professor McGonagall motioned for the Grangers to wait. Shortly thereafter, an elderly man with silver hair emerged from behind the counter.
"Ah, Minerva, it's been a while. Fir and a half, particularly good for Transfiguration... Time flies. I recall when I sold your first wand alongside your father."
Ollivander regarded Professor McGonagall with a touch of nostalgia before focusing on Artel and Hermione, who stood behind her.
"Are these the young wizards starting school this year? Let's find out which wand chooses them."
Stepping out from behind the counter, Ollivander examined the two young wizards and asked:
"Who would like to be fitted for their wand first?"
"Ladies first," Artel stepped back and gestured for Hermione to go ahead.
"Good lad."
Ollivander smiled and turned his attention to Hermione.
"Hello there, young witch. Which hand do you favor?"
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