"Alright, Anduin. We've spent enough time choosing your wand. Now we need to hurry and gather the rest of your supplies", Professor McGonagall glanced at the sky and told Anduin.
"Yes, Professor".
Next, guided by Professor McGonagall, Anduin visited Ink and Change stationery shop to stock up on parchment, ink, and quills. He then went to Madam Malkin's Robes, Flourish and Blotts bookstore, and Partridge's Cauldron Shop to purchase his cauldron, wizard's uniforms, and other required school materials.
Anduin also bought an owl and pet supplies. He'd always found owls amusing with their comically stern expressions.
Before long, much of the day had slipped away in Diagon Alley, and the setting sun cast a golden glow.
"That's everything, Anduin. We've covered all the essentials. It's growing late, so I'll escort you back. While Diagon Alley is relatively safe, young wizards shouldn't linger after dark", Professor McGonagall advised.
"Thank you, Professor McGonagall. Let me buy you a cold drink before you go. You've spent most of your day helping me, it's the least I can do to show my gratitude," Anduin suggested. Though dusk hadn't fully settled, he felt worn from the long outing and hoped to ask McGonagall more about the wizarding world.
"Very well, but don't dawdle", Professor McGonagall agreed after a brief pause, deeming it a small delay.
The two then headed to Florin's Frosty Beverages in Diagon Alley, ordered two chilled drinks, and found seats.
"Professor McGonagall, now that I have a wand . . . can I practice spells?" Anduin took a sip and ventured the question.
"Don't get ahead of yourself, Anduin. Spellwork is far more complex than you imagine. Reckless casting can have dire consequences, especially in the Muggle world. The Ministry is particularly strict about underage magic detection these days," she explained patiently. "They use something called the Trace, a charm that detects magic performed by witches or wizards under seventeen. In the Muggle world, it's like lighting a flare in the dark. At magical gatherings, the Ministry can't pinpoint the caster, but elsewhere? You'd be caught instantly".
"So . . . it's safe to practice here in Diagon Alley?" Anduin pressed.
"In theory, yes. But casting without guidance is dangerous. I understand young wizards like you are eager, but curb that curiosity until term begins." McGonagall maintained her firm yet nurturing tone.
"Got it". Anduin replied casually, though his thoughts seemed elsewhere.
"Are there many professors like you at Hogwarts? What keeps you busy? And Headmaster Dumbledore, what's he like?" Anduin fired off questions, oblivious to whether he was overwhelming her.
"I suspect you'll end up in Ravenclaw, young Mr. Wilson", McGonagall remarked dryly but humored him. "Dumbledore is widely regarded as the most powerful wizard alive. You'll meet him soon enough. He's currently in Hogsmeade, interviewing a Divination teacher, a subject I've never found particularly necessary . . . ".
"Professor McGonagall! Fancy seeing you here!". A woman's voice interrupted from the doorway.
Anduin turned to see a couple entering. The man wore glasses, his hazel eyes bright beneath neatly combed black hair. Beside him stood a pregnant woman with long auburn locks and almond-shaped eyes. After greeting McGonagall, they approached.
"Lily, James! What brings you here?" McGonagall stood in surprise. Anduin followed suit.
"The baby's due soon, just stocking up", James explained, eyeing Anduin. "Ah, helping a new student shop? Muggle-born, I take it? Where are your parents, lad? Letting you wander alone?"
Lily pinched James' arm, and he blinked in confusion.
"Sharp observation. I am Muggle-born. As for my parents . . . I've never known them", Anduin replied evenly, unruffled by the bluntness.
"Oh, apologies. Didn't mean to pry". James backtracked hastily.
Anduin shrugged it off.
"This is Anduin Wilson, a first-year starting this term. These are James and Lily Potter, alumni. Sit with us. Brave of you to visit Diagon Alley in Lily's condition!" McGonagall mediated.
"No fear here! Just prepping for the little one," James beamed at Lily, who glowed with anticipation.
Hearing their surname, Anduin's suspicions stirred. "How far along are you? Have you chosen a name?".
Lily smiled warmly. "Due by month's end. If it's a boy, he'll be Harry, Harry Potter".
Anduin's mind raced. 'Harry Potter's parents—alive. Which means . . . Voldemort isn't gone yet. It explained Diagon Alley's sparse crowds and the Aurors patrolling earlier'.