Hi guys! Thanks for reading this far and I hope I'm doing good in feeding your interest! Sorry that I took a while in posting this, but I was a bit busy. My plan is to post at least once a week, since I'm a bit piled up with school. And I think i'm actually going to really enjoy writing the next chapter! And hopefully you'll guys enjoy reading it as well! So plz feedback is taken with much gratitude by me. If you have questions, suggestions or concerns, plz let me know! Thanx again and have fun:)

~Z:)

Chapter 4: Hogwarts Shopping

"Fawkes! It came, it came!" Alexander exclaimed as he read the sender of the envelope that had just recently arrived with an owl. The tawny owl lingered in the window expectantly, when Alex finally remembered what Ron had told him last night before they left.

"Sorry, here you go," Alex grabbed the owl pellets Ron had told him about rewarding messenger owls. He'd gone done to Hannah Longbottom earlier and asked for some. The tawny owl pecked eagerly at his hand before setting off from the open window.

The Leaky Cauldron was an old fashioned inn that's been here for a very long time in wizarding history. Hannah, the landlady, actually gave Alex a room for free, being the trio's old friend. But also Alex guessed, because he was with them and they were the Golden Trio, whom people liked to do things for. Yesterday after leaving the Ministry of Magic, the Weasleys and Harry had stayed to tell him everything about the magical wizarding world. Besides explaining their fame and the events of the Second Wizarding War, they talked about the society, the magic system and lots about Hogwarts. To the point he was incredibly excited and anxious to hear the news.

And there in his hands, the letter from Minerva McGonagall held all the power for which path his life would be. A part of him was hoping so badly to being allowed to attend Hogwarts. But his bigger pessimist part was already thinking about the future visits and interactions of the American Minister for Magic.

He groaned at the thought of her as he settled down on the big creaking bed. Fawkes flapped from his perch, Hannah provided that, and onto Alex's shoulder.

Don't worry. Open it, good words.

Alex took a deep breath before carefully opening the envelope. There were a few pieces of paper inside, and Alex's heart gave a flutter. He unfolded the one addressing him in his outcome and took a deep breath before letting himself read it out loud.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

Dear Mr. Alexander Rosewell,

Under normal circumstances, my Deputy Headmaster would have sent you a letter. But I think it only proper that I address you. And I am pleased to inform you that your request was accepted for attending at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Under normal circumstances, you not being under the British Ministry of Magic, your request would have been denied. But these aren't normal circumstances and I will gladly take in another brilliant student because of my respect for the Minister and my formal students' interest. And I should not forget that Fawkes has finally been heard of, and only under good will, that Fawkes trusts someone and I shall too. For if Albus Dumbledore was here, he would have accepted you without delay, and I shall do so as well.

Enclosed, please find the list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on 1 September. And I look forward to meeting you soon.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Headmistress

Alex's mouth closed and open for several seconds like a fish before he abruptly jumped up. Fawkes let out some irritated high pitched screeches for being thrown off suddenly.

"FAWKES! I'VE BEEN ACCEPTED! WE GET TO GO TO HOGWARTS!" he yelled loudly and laughed as he bounced around on the bed. The bed creaked violently and almost seemed like the springs would snap from Alex's excitement. He just couldn't hold it in, because for the first time something good actually happened that he was praying for.

"Goodness! Alexander, are you alright?!" Neville Longbottom swung the bedroom door open, closely followed by his wife. They were taken back at the boy's wild display. When they met Alex, they had thought him to be a clever and humorous boy, but he seemed to not relay any strong emotions besides laughter. But this excitement was a bit of a surprise from what they expected.

"Hannah! Neville! I've been accepted at Hogwarts! I'm allowed to go!" he bounded off the bed and showed the letter. They're faces cracked into smiles and chuckled in relief.

"I knew McGonagall would let you in. After all the pestering Harry and the rest of us did. We probably sent 20 letters asking her to make an exception!" Neville exclaimed and shook Alex's hand in congratulations. Hannah pulled Alex into a hug, which he forced himself to not stiffen.

"This is such great news! We need to throw a party! A dinner party and everyone's invited in honor of Alex. Oh and I'll go sent owls to Harry, Hermione and Ron," she laughed and raced out of the room. Neville chuckled as he watched her disappear and turned back to a beaming Alex.

"So, I believe you've been sent a list of books and things you'll need, right?" he asked and Alex nodded.

"Uh, yeah. Where did I put it…?" Alex calmly walked back to where he dropped the envelope and its content with a spring in his steps. Fawkes swooped down and grabbed a page before cautiously sitting on Alex's shoulder. Alex took the paper and smiled at Fawkes for finding the right one. "Sorry I threw you off, buddy."

"Let's see here," Neville sat on the edge of the bed next to Alex and together they read the contents.

UNIFORM

First-year students will require:

1. Three sets of plain work robes (black)

2. One plain pointed hat (black) for day wear

3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)

4. One winter cloak (black, with silver fastenings)

Please note that all pupils' clothes should carry name tags.

COURSE BOOKS

All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1)

By Miranda Goshawk

A History of Magic

By Bathilda Bagshot

Magical Theory

By Adalbert Waffling

A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration

By Emeric Switch

One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi

By Phyllida Spore

Magical Drafts and Potions

By Arsenius Jigger

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

By Newt Scamander

The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection

By Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 wand

1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)

1 set glass or crystal phials

1 telescope

1 set brass scales

Students may also bring, if they desire, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS

ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICK

"That's a lot of stuff, I'll need…" Alex wondered at the prices of getting them. He already knew there's an entrance to Diagon Alley behind the Leaky Cauldron. There, he could buy everything he needed as a wizard, but still. He felt dismay once again at not having the means to provide himself because he didn't have enough money. He did have a good amount of dollars and change he'd saved over the years for college and he has that in his rucksack. But he didn't think it would be enough when he exchanged it for wizard money.

"Oh look, this is from the Minister for Magic. Wait, this isn't Kingsley- it's the American one!" Neville handed him one of the other separate sheets of paper. Alex quickly scanned it and to his surprise it was for purchases and how she was paying for everything! He reread to be exact, and sure enough she has already had everything ordered and paid for ahead of time. And he couldn't help but be even more surprised that she was having a check of wizard money given to him so he can use for other than school supplies!

"Wow! So all my books and equipment are already ordered?" Alex looked to Fawkes with wide eyes. He didn't expect this from that kind of woman. Maybe he did judge her harshly…

"That's great! All you need is to get your size for the robes and articles. Oh and you need to get your wand of course," Neville stood up, smiling at Alex, "I suppose we'll be expecting your things to arrive soon. And you'll have plenty of time to get your clothes and wand. Maybe I'll even take you around Diagon Alley to see the sights!"

"Yeah! That'd be really awesome. So I have what? Two weeks before classes start, right?" Alex placed the papers away and put them on the nearby table.

"Yes, so don't start fretting. You don't want to end up like me on my first year. I began getting all flustered and worried as soon as I read that letter. I had some pretty worst case scenarios I've thought of. God, I was a disaster," Neville laughed, "Anyway, I better go take care of things. I'll see you in a bit, and congrats once again!"

Alex thanked him as he closed the door and locked it. He then slid down on the ground, completely exhausted by all the good outcomes. He still couldn't wrap his mind around it all. But he grinned all the less.

A week has already passed since the letter came. The dinner party was fantastic and Alex couldn't remember the last time he had so much fun, and with a bunch of people he'd barely met. Everyone had congratulated him, all kinds of wizards and witches who he didn't even know what their names were. He'd also met several friends and family of the trio like Ginny Weasley-Harry's wife, and her older brother George. Harry, Hermione and Ron even got him a surprise gift, a book called Hogwarts, A History.

"That book came in handy in my years of Hogwarts. I still am perplexed at why they haven't made it a required read. But anyway, this is the new updated edition. It has a whole section on Harry and what happened in our years. Plus many extra facts that I wish my old copy had," Hermione had sighed.

And in between days, his books and equipment arrived by owl post or a wizard delivery man. He had sat, checking them off from the list, excitement rising every time he looked at them in the corner. Neville had taken him to Gringotts, the wizard bank, and had the check deposited in Galleons and sickles. He also got a large steamer trunk in which he could carry and keep all his stuff when he lives at Hogwarts. When he lives there, was still a new term for him.
He had always wanted to go to a boarding school, but was never able to afford it. And besides, his foster homes didn't plan on spending their extra money on such things even if he got a scholarship or a government program supported him.

He sat and watched Fawkes play with little bouncy balls that never stop bouncing around from Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. The highly furnished bedroom has been a sort of home for him now. Alex spent most of his time here reading or hanging around in the grubby main room with all the visitors. And other times, he was allowed to explore Diagon Alley, but of course with supervision by one of the trio or Neville.

Yesterday he had gone for his robe fitting at a second hand shop and then Neville took him to Madam Malkin's Robes For All Occasions shop to get some better looking ones. He'd also been able to get some better sized muggle clothes that he could wear over the weekends at Hogwarts. Besides that, they'd done a lot of window shopping and for once Alex had enough money to spend.

Unfortunately, Neville had left this morning to get ready for his classes in Hogwarts. After all, he was the Herbology teacher there and Alex was already a bit in on the class agenda over the year. But what was nagging Alex so badly and making his mood rotten every time he thought of it was that he still hadn't got his wand. They'd passed Ollivander's several times, but either it was closed or both wand makers weren't there.

Ollivander had grown in age and his assistant had been gone on several expeditions. Neither was available the past week, and classes were to begin next week. It was only a matter of days, and this was gnawing on Alex for quite a while. And the only thing keeping him out of desperation was that Harry had offered to take Alex the coming day in which the store was certain to be opened.

Harry's godson was going to come shopping with some of his friends for last minute supplies and Alex would be taken to Ollivander's for his wand. He was actually not really looking forward to meeting the boy, habits die hard. He'd never got along with kids his age; rarely did they enjoy his company. And this "Teddy" was also attending Hogwarts as a first year. So he supposed he should at least meet someone so he wouldn't be a complete loner. Again.

He'd already made a list of goals, and of course on top was excelling in all his classes. He also wanted to know and study every bit of magic there is and invent something to put to good use. And this time around, he was actually going to try making real friends. Now, he wasn't going to be the only one causing crazy things to happen. He actually had a rational explanation. Well as rational as magic can be.

Stand out and stand above, he thought as he watched Fawkes playfully. Yet everything hung in the balance because of him needing a wand. He wanted so badly to start and experiment all the spells and charms he'd read about already. And explore all the possibilities and sooo much power.

He just wondered which wand it will be. The wand chooses the wizard. But he did have a terrible fear that a wand might never choose him. And he just couldn't help but worry that his wand won't be powerful enough for him.

He caught one of the magic bouncy balls before it collided with his head and released it toward the wall, he laughed as he watched Fawkes chase behind it. The phoenix flapped after the bouncing ball with much eagerness. He tried to get his thought off his anxiety for the wand, but everywhere he looked he was reminded of magic and his need for a wand to do anything effective.

Alex then remembered the pouch and twine necklace. The charred phoenix feather and the red rose that was still very much alive, as if it was artificial. The petals hadn't fallen and the stem felt real, so he knew there was some kind of magic that was sustaining it. He'd kept both hidden, not wanting anyone to get a closer look and put two and two together. With proper inspection and he bet some tracing spell, anyone could easily find out that Alex was the one who started the flames.

But he couldn't help but think that maybe the dark wizard did have something to do with it. In the Daily Prophet, the wizard newspaper, there was the buzz about the dark wizard in the U.S. Everybody was apparently getting a bit flustered, especially after the pulling together the wizarding communities have been doing after the Second Wizarding War. They feared that another upraise of dark magic will come back. Some crazy idiot trying to finish Voldemort's incomplete dirty work. Although Aurors, the wizarding police force, have captured many of the escaped Deatheaters who scattered after their Dark Lord's end, people still worried. And Alex understood that a single spark can start a fire.

Except something still kept nagged at him, other than the dark wizard's presence and that was why he spoke to him and gave him the rose. He felt that the rose meant something. A symbol? After all, it was blood red and its thorns were still sharp and intact. And maybe it was also some kind of message. But was it to the magical community or to just Alex? He couldn't shake off the feeling of deeper meaning.

He walked to the trunk but hesitated. He wasn't sure if he could risk taking them out. He'd hid them in his rucksack, but he still felt unsafe. Then Alex remembered reading something about ways to conceal objects in that one chapter…

He woke up early the next day, even though he stayed up late reading. Fawkes was riding on his shoulder as he raced down the stairs to the main room of the Leaky Cauldron. It was dark and grubby down here, in contrast to the pleasant rooms upstairs. Probably to discourage the muggles from staying, for they still had access to the pub and inn because of condition from the Secrecy Law.

Hannah was behind the counter, conversing with a witch in drab robes and a patched up pointy hat. Alec recalled her name something like Heidi or Hadley. As he walked through the main room, several warlocks and witches waved at him. He smiled as he returned the greeting, still a bit triumphant that he was able to get along with so many adults. He was known to be a charmer even though adults were always unfair to him. Except this time around, the wizards and witches in fact were really nice. He really enjoyed meeting all these strange and peculiar people. But as always, there were those few who kept their nose up in the air and ignored almost everybody. And Alex didn't have a problem ignoring them as well.

"Morning, Hannah!" Alex jumped up onto on the high stool in front of the counter. Fawkes sang a greeting tune to Hannah as well.

"Mornin', Alex! And Fawkes! Hope you enjoyed your breakfast," she wiped the counter with a rag as she smiled back.

"Yup, thanks for the chocolates. Fawkes loves those and the cherry sherbet candies."

"Anytime, so how can I entertain?" she laughed and began organizing some papers in a drawer under the counter. Alex grinned before he pretended to think about a choice, tapping his finger on his chin.

"Actually, I was thinking I'd go ahead to Ollivander's before I meet up with Harry," he leaned on his elbows and stroked a few of Fawkes's feathers. Hannah's lips twisted in thought as she looked him. But before she could say anything, a wizard appeared behind her.

"Hannah, I need some help with these orders…" Torm, the cook, placed several sheets in front of her.

"Oh of course! Let's see," she leaned down and read through. While she was distracted, Alex took his chance.

"I already know my way well enough in Diagon Alley. It won't be a problem! And besides, all the shopkeepers already know me and will see me pass by. And if I got kidnapped, there are plenty of witnesses…" he had a raised eyebrow, looking at her expectantly. She glanced between him and the papers in front of her.

"I don't Alexander. But fine, except you need to come right back to go with Harry," she answered distractedly, as she pulled out a bottle of ink and quill. He grinned widely and was sliding halfway down his stool when he turned back to Hannah.

"Actually, tell him I'll meet up with him at the cafe, uh I mean the tea shop across from Broomstix," Alex added and before she can say anything, he raced back up the stairs to his room. Fawkes had dug his claws into his shoulders because of Alex's sudden transitions and moving about.

"Fawkes, do you want to come along or stay here?" the phoenix whistled before settling on his perch, quite fed up with Alex's excited jumping around. "Fine, less likely that I'll be stopped. You do attract much attention."

Alex grabbed his pouch of money before checking if he needed anything else. Deciding that his money was enough, he waved at Fawkes before bolting out of the room. Excitement and relief at finally getting his wand, Alex clambered down the stairs and to the back door of the Leaky Cauldron.

The walled courtyard was a dead end, a brick wall standing very much ordinary. But Alex waited a moment when all of a sudden, some of the bricks in clockwise order popped out. The wall rumbled before an archway formed and a group of robed wizards and witches walked out. Alex politely stepped aside as the adults and children, most likely Hogwarts students, disappeared into the pub. Alex quickly took his chance and slipped in before the brick wall closed up again.

As he stepped onto the cobbled wizarding alley, he grinned in wonder at the sight. Like Harry once said, he wished he had a few more pair of eyes to take in the many shops and bustling people. Many were robed in all ages and sizes, window shopping in groups. Laughter and loud talk was heard all around mixed with the pops and many sounds of magic.

Alex began walking, dodging and jumping out people's way. He glanced at shop windows, admiring the wares. From everyday items to enchanted products, wizards and witches swarmed around like bees on flowers. He curiously studied the many mysterious objects, running what he learned from his past visits.

Potions, cauldrons, enchanted cleaning supplies, protection devices. Brooms, enchanted furniture, prank products, fireworks…

The list went on with the many items that can be sold and found here. Literally, everything a wizard or witch ever needed could be found in Diagon Alley. Although Alex wasn't quite sure what he'd do with an umbrella rack that can also be transformed into a bucket for keeping crabs, which was what was advertised.

He walked along the flowing crowds, meandering around before remembering his purpose. He was actually having quite a thrill since this was his first time wandering Diagon Alley without an adult. He could go where he pleased and that was to Ollivander's. He then stopped in his tracks, making some wizard stumble into him. The wizard passed around him muttering irritatingly.

"Where is Ollivander's exactly?" Alexander asked himself. He'd passed the small shop many times, always peering at it fixedly. But he realized he hadn't exactly mapped out where it was in his head, which was rather unusual of him. He'd always taken note of things but he was always so distracted here. And he was always following someone else every time to guide him through Diagon Alley, but not this one around.

"Was it across from Gringott's? Or that stationary shop?" Alex wondered as he began to wander further down the alley, peering at every store. He was rather confused and starting to get annoyed with all the noise. As Flourish and Blotts came into view, Alex checked around. He needed to focus and remember the area Olliv-

"Oof!" the person yelped as they dropped something. Alex had accidently collided with a small figure. The person he collided with stumbled but caught themselves. "Sorry, are you okay?" he grabbed their elbow to steady them.

"It's okay, just watch out next time," their voice had an edge. Alex actually focused and realized it was a girl with long chestnut brown hair. She straightened her dark robes and tossed her air over her shoulder, her face scanning the ground. Alex then noticed that what she dropped had rolled near his foot. Stooping down he retrieved it, quickly realizing it was a wand.

"That's mine!" the girl reached for her wand, but Alex held onto it. He studied it intently, fingering the beautifully engraved handle. It obviously bought from Ollivander's, made from willow and was a good 6 inches.

"What's the core?" he looked at the girl, before forcing himself to returning it to her outstretched hand. She quickly inspected it, wiping away the dust from its fall. She looked back at him quizzically before answering.

"Unicorn hair. I got it from Ollivander's," she rubbed the engraved designs absently. Alex nodded with wide eyes before sheepishly brushing his wild hair back and looking to the girl. She had given him an once-over, studying him. He had forgotten that he was wearing some of his old muggle clothes.

"Oh, sorry about slamming into you. I didn't see you there because I was trying to in fact find Ollivander's," he tilted his head to the side, glancing at the almost spilling crowd of people in Flourish and Blotts.

"Oh! Ollivander's is down on that corner, to the left," she gestured behind her. But before anything else could be said, Alex ran passed her. "Thanks!" he yelled over his shoulder at her startled face before making his winding way in the bustling alley. "Why didn't I ask for directions?" he groaned to himself. He blamed his independence for not liking people's help.

And to his luck, her directions were accurate. A sign hung over a small shop, Ollivander's displayed in curly writing. Underneath it had "Makers of Fine Wands since 382 B.C." in peeling gold paint.

Pushing his way to the door, Alex slipped into the small and shabby dim shop. A small bell rang and Alex stepped up to a counter and behind it were clustered narrow boxes piled up to the ceiling in shelves. A thin layer of dust covered the entire shop, and Alex was tempted to sneeze to set off the dust.

He felt his heart pound inside him; this was what he was anticipating for so long. The hours he spent at night pondering the possibilities and power he'd have access to because of his wand. And a bit impatiently he rang the little rusty bell on the desk.

The store was obviously open since he was able to enter, but it was rather quiet. He curiously looked around at all the boxes, wondering which one is holding his wand. His head snapped to the door hidden near a shelf of boxes as he heard loud coughing. An elderly man then walked out to the desk, his glasses perched on the tip of his nose.

"Hello, how can I help you, sir?" his voice rasped a bit, but there was no mistaking that this was Ollivander himself. But as the wrinkled man stared at Alex, the words that he recited many times dried up on his tongue. He opened his mouth, but he was at a loss of words.

"I need the strongest wand you have," he suddenly said with a clear and loud voice, raising his chin. He was actually going to say a lot more and with "best wand". But a strong wand was exactly what he wanted anyway.

Ollivander's eyes narrowed a bit before nodding and hobbling to a shelf in the back. He slipped out several boxes, the towering piles haphazardly looking like they'd collapse. The old man then stacked them on the desk, opening one. He handed a narrow dark wand to Alex, who took it eagerly.

Studying it he muttered, "Walnut" and Ollivander's eyes widened a fraction before nodding. Alex then asked, "What's the core?"

"Dragon heartstring," the old man now studied Alex intently with his pale silver eyes. Alex nodded before giving it a wave, already doubting this was for him. And sure enough a pile of boxes collapsed on a low shelf. He gingerly put it down and Ollivander opened another. "Yew and unicorn hair for the core," he frowned as he handed the springy wand.

Alex waved it and sure enough another pile of boxes crashed down. Biting his lip, Alex took the one Ollivander handed him next. His heart was beating as he waved the chestnut with another unicorn hair, and the same result with another crashing pile of boxes. The next few wands resulted in crashing, breaking glass and flying papers.

Alex frantically picked up a holly with dragon heartstring for a core, this time he decided to actually try some magic. "Lumos," the wand's tip actually lit up to Alex's delight but all of a sudden the papers on Ollivander's counter caught on fire. "I was wondering when I would set something on fire," he grumbled as Ollivander quickly put the flames out.

Alex was still a bit surprised with the calm demeanor of the old man, as if he had already been through this before and was expecting the disruptions. A loud voice angrily came from the hidden door behind the shelf when a young man barged through.

"What is all that racket?!" he pulled off his goggles and let them fall around his neck. He had ruffled hair and dust coating his clothes. He looked around at the mess of disrupted dust and smoke, his pale silver eyes matching his father's.

"We've got us a difficult one here, no wand seems to be compatible," Ollivander turned to his son and gestured to Alex. "Mister… what's your name boy?" Ollivander asked regarding him with his peculiar eyes.

"Alexander Rosewell," he answered tilting his head as his eyes flickered from the father to the son, studying and comparing. The young man's face then lit up with realization as he stepped up to Alex.

"Ah yes, you're the American first-year. You're wand was prepaid and Harry Potter was supposed to bring you to find it. I'm Darrick Ollivander, assistant." He stretched his arm out and Alex shook it firmly. "Father, I'll take it from here."

"No, no. I'm rather curious about this boy; I haven't seen so many rejections in quite a while. I usually find the right one. Mr. Rosewell, when were you born?" Ollivander adjusted his glasses, peering expectantly. Alex was a bit offended but wasn't surprised with his outcome of "so many rejections".

"May 2nd, 1998," he answered casually but that sent quite a reaction. Both men's eyes widened and they sucked in a sharp breath. Their eyes locked on each other, having some silent exchange. Alex watched them in wonder and confusion, not quite what he said that was wrong.

"Father… let me try with him," Darrick quietly spoke, glancing at Alex. Ollivander nodded solemnly and gazed at Alex with curious eyes, as if beholding him for the first time. Darrick started grabbing several boxes at random from each section; he even disappeared through the hidden door and came with more boxes. As he piled them up, they stacked to about 40 altogether.

"One of them must choose you," he said with a confident and hard look. The first wand was taken out and Alex tentatively took it. He didn't feel that power well inside of him, but he tried all the less. But the wand did nothing for a second before the small shop began to shake. Everything rattled and trembled, narrow boxes collapsing and a storm of dust rose into the air. Darrick quickly snatched the wand out of his hand shaking his head.

The father and son patiently handed Alex one wand after another. Similar reactions of crashing and fire or simply nothing. Alex watched as the boxes dissolved and then piled up once more with suggestions. Panic and fear began to rise inside him as he lost track of time. The grip of hopelessness tightened as one wand after another didn't choose him. Rejection and not being wanted were familiar to him, but at that moment he felt devastated.

"Curious, very curious…" Ollivander sighed before suddenly looking to his son with wide eyes. "I wonder…"

"Father, no! It hasn't been tested before nor has it chosen anybody. It's absolutely unpredictable," Darrick hissed, quickly catching on with his father's train of thought. "The date of his birth-"

"Matters much. He was born between an end and start, this the very kind of magic associated with this wand. Birth on a day of death, is what that wand may respond to," Ollivander stared with an intent gaze, making Alex squirm. He stayed quiet, trying to catch on what they were discussing. His need to ask questions was reigned in. If it was a wand… it must be quite mysterious and powerful.

"This wand, what is so unusual about it? I might as well give it a try since I'm not exactly having any luck here," Alex broke the tensioned silence of the stare-down between the Ollivanders. Both looked at him, one nodding the other frowning deeply.

"Fine. But we won't tell you anything if it doesn't pick you. And if it does… we will. Except I believe it won't chose you," Darrick sighed and gestured for Alex to follow him.

The older man walked behind them as they walked to the back of the shop and through the door hidden behind the shelf. There was a staircase leading up and another down to a basement. And to nobody's surprise, they headed down the dark, dusty and creaky stairs to the basement. More shelves piled with narrow dusty boxes lined the walls, and in the back there was a dim work station. Large rows of shelves filled instead of boxes but of objects. Crates of wood, jars of hairs and other mysterious substances. A large table stood in the center with all kinds of unusual tools. Alex peered curiously at them, guessing they were what they used to make wands.

"Over here," Darrick slid open a black case. And nestled under a piece of cloth on a cushion was a rather peculiar wand. Made of the darkest wood, it was ink black. Slender and rather the strangest symbol was engraved at its handle. There was something dark about it, but Alex could feel the waves of power. He couldn't help but feel the wave of eagerness inside of him. He needed this wand, there was such power about it.

"Careful, take it," Ollivander patted Alex's shoulder. He gulped before gingerly stretching his hand out, the two men's eyes piercing into him. As his hands closed around the handle, he felt a wave go through him. A stray draft of cold air blew, ruffling his hair. It called to him, the feeling of warmth and cold certainty as he held it. But somehow, he knew that this was his wand. It was his.

"Lumos," he whispered and the tip of the wand lit. But it grew stronger and it blinded them in its ghostly white light. "Nox," he whispered and the room fell into the shadows again.

"Merlin's wand," Ollivander stared in astonishment before he broke into a large smile. Darrick's mouth was gaping, his eyes staring fixedly at the wand. Alexander looked down at his wand, dazed.

"It chose you. The wand chose you and I cannot decide whether that is a good thing or not," Darrick stared disbelieving at Alex. But Ollivander slapped his shoulder and chuckled.

"Curious and magnificent. My finest wand has chosen a brilliant boy, hasn't it?" the old man gave him a toothy grin, although he seemed to have lost quite a few. "Do you know what that wand is made of there?"

"Elder wood," Alex replied without missing a beat.

"Yes, like the original. And the core of," he lowered his voice, "Thestral hair."

Alex's eyes widened, knowing very much about what those creatures are. They were always associated with death and the Hogwarts carriages were pulled by them, the trio had told him.

"The second Elder wand. A replica of the most powerful wand in wizarding history and one of the Deathly Hallows," Darrick still seemed a bit shaken. Alex looked at both men curiously, absently fingering his wand's dark wood.

"Elder wand? Deathly Hallows?" he asked, trying to recall if he ever heard of those words before. Ollivander nodded before stepping up.

"Yes. The original Elder Wand has been lost or more accurately hidden. And a Deathly Hallow-"

"Father, no. Look and listen to me, Alexander," Darrick interrupted his father and kneeled down before Alex, his gaze strong.

"That wand must not been known of. You can say its wood but not its core. We've done many dangerous and difficult experiments to finally make it. And if someone finds out that we made this, they will come after you and us. If that wand falls into the wrong hands… things will happen that will have consequences. That wand is unpredictable. It has chosen you, all the less." Darrick stood up stiffly. He nodded at his father before slipping out a piece of paper and tapping it with his own wand. The paper glowed for a second before it went back to normal.

"If anything unusual happens, you need to contact us. We are both curious I'm afraid, of what we were able to create. At the slightest strange thing, simply use ink or your wand to scrawl my initials- D.G.O." he handed the slip of paper to Alex. Alex nodded and carefully put it into his pocket.

He stared wonderingly at his wand, admiring it. He felt such relief and power. His wand.

"I believe your wand was already paid for, Mr. Rosewell," Ollivander tapped his shoulder, pulling him out of his thoughts. Alex nodded, realizing he didn't need to stay any longer.

"Thank you and I will take care of this. I am as curious about it as you two," he gave them a smile and raced up the basement stairs. His heart was light and very full of excitement.

But as they watched him disappear with their prized wand, a dark doubt fell on the two wand makers. There was something cold about his smile and glint of greed in his eyes. A feeling of wrongness and unease filled their hearts, not quite sure if they had given the wand to the right hands. Only the future held answers.

"Alex! Goodness, where have you been?" Harry frowned down. He took Alexander's arm and led him to a table inside the tea shop that they'd agreed to meet at. As they settled down near the window, Alex kept his hand firmly around his wand in the pocket of his faded jeans. He'd held onto it the entire way, lost in thought.

"We went ahead shopping. Teddy and Marcus got tired of waiting and right now their outside Broomstix," Harry gestured to the Quidditch shop across. The crowds had thinned a bit, after all Alex had been at Ollivander's for the past two hours. He'd really lost track of time there through all that desperation and panic, but now all he felt was smug relief.

"That's them," Harry waved at two boys. One of them actually had bright blue hair and he quickly pulled his other friend as they crossed over. "So did you get your wand?"

"Uh, yeah," Alex grinned slipping it out. Harry cocked his head to the side as his eyes narrowed. Alex made sure that he was covering the strange marking, not quite sure why. "It's made of Elder wood."

"Really… what about its core?" Alex felt a bit nervous. He wasn't sure if he could pass his lie on the core. But as he opened his mouth to say "Dragon Heartstring", he was saved by loud laughter.

"Harry! You should have seen Rory Pucey! He's Slytherin through and out! And-"The blue haired boy suddenly noticed Alex. His dark-haired friend was already studying Alex with clever eyes. He stepped up and asked a question straight forward.

"What house do you think you'll be in?" he asked and Alex opened his mouth only to close it. Truth was he had pondered that question many times. He had turned over the possibilities over and over. Not quite sure where he'd be best at.

"Marcus, that's not the first thing you should say to someone. Follow my example, Ravenclaw," the blue-haired boy rolled his eyes. He turned back to Alex slipping into an easy grin, "Hello! I'm Teddy. Short for Edward Remus Lupin. Actually, never mind it's just a nickname."

"Alexander Rosewell. I prefer Alex, though." He returned the grin.

"Hello Alex! I'm Marcus Lloyd. And I do handshakes," he stretched out his hand in which Alex took with a laugh.

"I was going to do that, but I was testing you," Teddy narrowed his eyes in mock manner at Marcus before extending his to Alex.

"I'm glad you boys are getting along already. How about some something to eat?" Harry smiled at them.

"Yes please!" the British boys exclaimed along with the grumble of Alex's stomach. They all burst out laughing; Harry shaking his head as he went off to order.

"Hey, shopping made me hungry! I was at Ollivander's for the past two hours," Alex sheepishly smiled as the two boys slipped into their seats.

"What?! Two hours? Did you at least get a wand?" Teddy's mouth gaped. Alex laughed and nodded, slipping out his wand.

"Yeah, and a good one at that. Elder wood and Dragon Heartstring," he filled them in. They nodded and stared at curiously.

"But why is it so dark colored? It looks bloody epic, though," Marcus admired and he slipped out his wand.

"Mine is Hornbeam and with Unicorn hair," Marcus slipped out his.

"I have Cypress wood and Unicorn hair," Teddy brandished his wand as well, "But honestly, what house do you think you'll be in?" Alex looked down on his wand, tracing the strange mark.

"I'm not sure at all. It's not like I know anything about my parentage to get a hint. And I feel like I'd be scattered into any of them based on their traits," he shrugged.

"Well, I'm Gryffindor most likely. Although my mother was a Hufflepuff, most people who know me think I'd be better suited in Gryffindor. And who knows, I might be sorted there," Teddy leaned against his hand, absently tapping his hands. Marcus quickly smacked Teddy's arm, making his head slip and smack against the tabletop.

"Ow! Marc!" he shoved the other boy, grinning at the satisfying sight of Marcus halfway down to the floor. Alex watched and laughed before Marcus grabbed his arm and both boys slipped on the ground. They all burst out laughing, getting disapproving looks from around. Alex flicked Marcus's ear before quickly getting up off the floor.

"Ouch! Ha, help me!" he stretched his arms up, still sitting firmly on the wooden floor. Alex gripped one arm and Teddy took the other, together they hefted Marcus up, except they did pull him up straight into the table.

"Ow! Seriously, I meant help me but to my chair not the table!" the other two gave him apologetic looks while trying to hold in their laughing. But from across the tea shop, Harry gave them a disapproving and disciplinary look. That made them all shut up and like civilized people, they sat back into their chairs. Once he turned his back on them, all it took was one look to get them grinning.

"What were we talking about again? Oh yeah houses. I think I'll either be in Ravenclaw or Gryffindor. That's what my family's known to being sorted into. Actually, Slytherin's an option too, because I never share my sweets." Marcus nodded with wide eyes.

"Yeah and I just can't see you in Hufflepuff," Teddy rolled his eyes.

"Neither can I, for both of us. Do I look like a potato to you?" he made a ridiculous face and the boys began laughing again, and they made sure it wasn't out of control.

"Seriously, quiet down though," Alex leaned in, "They might hear you!"

The other two snorted before leaning down on the table, looking suspiciously around. "Dudes! That one looks like a potato!" Marcus exclaimed, whispering in a low voice. They all glanced at the same time on the nearby table. A large bald man with little glasses sat sipping his tea and eating scones. Teddy pushed his fist into his mouth to keep from laughing to loud. Alex biting his lip and kicking Marcus under the table.

"There's another one over there!" Teddy snickered but before he could say more Harry appeared with a floating tray.

"Another of what?" he asked as he sat down next to Alex and the tray lightly landed on the table. It was piled high with little finger sandwiches and a cup for each of them.

"Never mind that, my stomach sounds like a dying whale!" Alex interjected before Teddy could answer Harry. As the boys dug in, they smiled at each other over their food. Alex couldn't help but feel for the first time, things were going good. He actually liked the boys well enough.

As Harry chatted lightly with them, Alex munched happily on his food. He absently rubbed his wand's handle, still a bit dazed by his new possession. Glancing at the boys around and at stealing a look at his wand, he felt a certain delight on this day of firsts.