CHAPTER 18 - THE MAGIC BEGINS
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Bones,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
He could hardly believe it. After all the waiting, all the wondering, it was here. The letter. The letter that signified that the life he had dreamed of since he was a small child would no longer be confined to dreams and fantasy.
His hands trembled slightly as he carefully opened the second page.
'HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
UNIFORM
First-year students will require:
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 pupil's 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
Students may also bring, if they d.e.s.i.r.e, an owl OR a cat OR a toad.
PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS
ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICK
Yours sincerely,
Lucinda Thomsonicle-Pocus
Chief Attendant of Witchcraft Provisions'
"It really came," I thought, staring at the parchment in disbelief. "My Hogwarts letter. The thing that every child who saw the movies or read the books dreamed about when they turned eleven."
I read the letter again, my heart racing. I couldn't stop the grin from spreading across my face.
"Hehehehe!" I giggled, the excitement bubbling up inside of me like a potion brewing just right.
"I can finally do it! I can finally start to learn real magic! I can finally get my wand! Haha!" I exclaimed, loud enough that SAL, my loyal falcon, shifted from his perch, cocking his head at me as if to say, "What's gotten into you?"
I didn't care how loud I was. For a moment, everything felt perfect. The letter in my hand was proof that I belonged to this hidden, magical world. It was the key to everything I had dreamed of.
After a few minutes, the thrill began to settle, letting my thoughts become clearer. I paced around the room, thinking quickly.
'I'll have to ask Aunt Amelia to let me go get my supplies alone. She can't know about the other vault—not yet. I love her, but some things have to stay secret until I can protect myself... and her. Too much money can be dangerous, even more than dark wizards sometimes.'
I folded the letter and tucked it safely into my pocket. Taking a deep breath, I ran up the stairs to Aunt Amelia's home office. I paused outside the door, quickly smoothing down my shirt and straightening up. I knew better than to rush in—Aunt Amelia was strict, especially about manners and presentation.
Knock. Knock.
"Come in," came her familiar, no-nonsense voice.
I opened the door and stepped inside. Her desk was immaculate as always, papers neatly stacked, her quill poised in her hand. She looked up at me with her usual cool gaze, though I could tell she was curious.
"Aunt Amelia, my Hogwarts letter came," I began, keeping my tone calm, though inside, I was still bouncing with excitement. "I've already sent my reply to confirm, so the next step is to get my supplies."
I stood there, waiting, prepared to argue my case if she suggested accompanying me.
"Good," she said, nodding thoughtfully. "I trust you to handle the shopping on your own. Tilly will go with you as your chaperone."
I blinked in surprise. That was... easier than I thought. I had expected her to insist on coming herself, or at least for a stern conversation about responsibility.
"You've shown enough maturity to handle this on your own," she continued, "but I want you to wait on getting your wand until the weekend. It will be better to get it after your birthday, and I want to be there for that moment."
Aunt Amelia looked at me closely, her expression softening just a fraction. "Also," she added, "I think it's time we make you the official heir to the Bones family. You've met and far exceeded my expectations during your studies."
My mouth fell open slightly. I had been ready to fight to go alone, but not only was she letting me, but she was also talking about making me the family heir. That was a big deal.
"Thank you, Aunt Amelia," I managed to say, my voice firm with determination. "I won't let you down."
She gave me a small smile, one of those rare ones that only I got to see. "I know you won't, Ares. Now off to bed—you'll have a busy day tomorrow."
"Good night, Aunt Amelia," I replied, still a little in awe as I backed out of the room.
As I closed the door behind me, I couldn't help but grin. This was happening—everything was falling into place.
The next morning couldn't come soon enough. I woke up with the first light of dawn, buzzing with excitement. After a quick breakfast and a faster-than-usual bath, I was ready to go, practically bouncing on my toes.
"Tilly, are you ready?" I called out as I grabbed my coat, feeling the smooth texture of my coin pouch—a little heavier today thanks to some preparations I'd made earlier.
"Yes, Master Ares, Tilly is always ready to help Master," came the squeaky, but ever-loyal voice of Tilly, the Bones family's house-elf. She stood by the fireplace, holding a small bag over her shoulder, her eyes wide with anticipation.
With a nod, I took a deep breath. Today was going to be monumental—the first real step into my life as a wizard. My Hogwarts letter was no longer a dream, and now, it was time to gather everything I needed to begin that journey.
We stepped into the fireplace, green flames licking at our feet as I threw down the Floo powder and called out, "The Leaky Cauldron!" A swirl of heat and ash enveloped us as we shot through the network, spinning past grates and hearths until we arrived at the dingy, bustling pub on Charing Cross Road.
The Leaky Cauldron wasn't exactly what I had imagined the first time I'd heard of it. It was far more crowded, and the smell of old wood and burning candles filled the air. People hurried about, witches and wizards of all kinds, some looking as though they were straight out of a storybook.
"Master Ares, shall we go?" Tilly piped up, tugging gently on the edge of my robes.
"Yes, let's," I replied, smiling down at her.
First stop—Gringotts. I had a plan. Aunt Amelia was generous, but I needed more funds than what she'd set aside for Tilly to use. Besides, there were a few... extras I needed that she didn't know about. The vault my aunt controlled wasn't the only one in my name, and it was important that I kept that secret for now.
We walked through the crooked streets of Diagon Alley until we reached the great white building that dominated the alleyway. Gringotts. The goblin-run bank. Tall pillars stretched toward the sky, the massive bronze doors gleaming in the sunlight. Goblins stood at attention, their sharp, calculating eyes watching everyone who passed.
I approached the familiar figure seated at one of the counters. "Hello there, Ragnok," I greeted him with the usual formal respect required when dealing with goblins. "May your vaults be full, and your enemies pray to never encounter you."
Ragnok's thin lips curled into a grin, exposing sharp, jagged teeth. "And may your gold keep piling at your feet like your enemies, young Master Bones."
I smiled. Dealing with goblins had always fascinated me. They were proud, fierce, and highly respected in their own circles. Plus, I had found a certain satisfaction in making friends of them. With a proper greeting and a bit of care, goblins were more than willing to extend favors, and it didn't hurt to have them on your side.
"What can Gringotts do for you today?" Ragnok asked, wasting no time on pleasantries.
"I wish to purchase a bottomless pouch connected to my private account," I said smoothly. "Also, I'm here to inquire whether my previous order has arrived."
Ragnok gave a sharp nod, his long fingers tapping the surface of the desk as he considered my request. "We shall take the ten Galleons required for the pouch, with your permission." His voice was businesslike but polite. "As for your order, it has indeed arrived. I trust you will find it precisely as requested."
He waved his hand, sending one of the nearby goblins scurrying off to retrieve the items. Within moments, the goblin returned, carrying a small, intricately crafted pouch and a discreet package wrapped in fine parchment.
"Thank you, Ragnok," I said, taking the pouch and inspecting it. It was a work of art, seamlessly blending form and function—small enough to carry without notice, but with enough space inside to fit the world. A goblin specialty, no doubt.
"And here is your order," Ragnok said, his tone one of clear professionalism. He gestured to the small package, which I quickly tucked into my storage pouch, feeling the weight of it settle in comfortably. No need to open it here—not in front of Tilly or anyone else.
With business concluded, I nodded respectfully once more. "Thank you again, Ragnok. May Gringotts continue to prosper."
Ragnok's grin widened. "It always will, young master."
As we left the bank and re-entered the bright hustle of Diagon Alley, I felt an immense satisfaction settle over me. Everything was falling into place. I had the funds I needed and the tools to start preparing for what was ahead. Now, it was time to enjoy the rest of the day, knowing that a small but significant secret lay safe within my storage pouch.
"Master Ares," Tilly said as we made our way toward the shops, "shall we get your robes next?"
As I glanced down at Tilly, I gave her a reassuring smile. "Yes, Tilly. Let's get everything ready for Hogwarts."
Before heading out of Gringotts, Ragnok added something almost off-handedly, "You know how the pouch works. You can only take out the money in your vault, and only you or those permitted by you can access it."
"Understood, Ragnok," I replied with a grin, before giving one last parting word, "May you find gold wherever you go, and may your enemies' broken bones form your path."
He gave me a final approving nod, his grin sharp. With that, I took my leave, feeling a bit more prepared for the day.
The first store on my list was the trunk shop. I had very specific needs, and no ordinary trunk would do. As I stepped inside, the shop had a cozy, well-worn feel. Rows upon rows of trunks were stacked high, some simple, some enchanted, others with intricate carvings that hinted at their hidden properties.
The shop owner, a tall, bespectacled wizard with a thin frame, looked up as I approached. He gave a polite nod but raised an eyebrow when I began listing my requirements.
"I need a custom order," I started, my voice clear with purpose. "Dragon hide exterior, with my initials—A.M.B—engraved on the front. It must have a featherweight charm, an unbreakable charm, anti-muggle protection, and I want it blood-bonded so only I can access and summon it. It should also have a shrinking charm with a chain attachment to wear it as a necklace. And lastly, I need compartments—one specifically for books, another for potions and ingredients, and plenty of extra space."
The owner blinked, clearly taken aback. "That's... quite the list, young master," he said slowly, adjusting his glasses. "You know this will be no ordinary trunk. The craftsmanship alone, with all those charms and customizations, will push the cost upwards of—"
"9,000 Galleons," I finished for him. "Yes, I'm aware. It's worth it."
His jaw twitched as if he couldn't quite believe I was willing to spend that much, but he nodded nonetheless. "Very well. This will take some time. You won't see the finished product until August, but I assure you, it will be one of the finest trunks you've ever owned."
"I'll be looking forward to it," I replied, leaving the shop satisfied. This trunk wasn't just an accessory—it was going to be a vital tool for my years at Hogwarts and beyond.
Next up was Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions. If I was going to spend a year wearing school robes, they had to be high quality. There was no point in making money if you didn't use it well, right?
Tilly and I made our way over to the shop, the bell chiming softly as we stepped inside. Madam Malkin herself was there, her squat form moving briskly about the store. She was wearing her usual mauve robes, her grey hair piled up in an interesting fashion that I couldn't quite figure out.
"Hogwarts, dear?" she asked as soon as she spotted me. "Come in, come in! Just wait a moment, I'll be with you as soon as I finish up with these two young ladies."
I nodded and followed her instructions, heading into the fitting room to wait. The room was filled with bolts of fabric, measuring tapes flitting about magically, and racks of partially finished robes hanging on the walls.
As I waited, I leaned back in my chair and glanced at Tilly. "You know, Tilly," I said, speaking thoughtfully, "it's strange to think that just a few months ago, Hogwarts was still this far-off dream. And now, here we are, getting fitted for robes. It feels like everything's moving so fast."
Tilly nodded enthusiastically, her large eyes sparkling with pride. "Master Ares will be the best wizard, just like Master has always dreamed!"
I smiled at her loyalty. Tilly had been with our family for as long as I could remember, and there was something comforting in her unwavering faith in me.
The minutes passed, and I could hear Madam Malkin bustling about in the other room, talking to her customers. Soon enough, she returned and gestured for me to stand on the small pedestal in the middle of the fitting area.
"Alright, let's get you sorted, dear," she said with a friendly smile. "Hogwarts robes for the full year, and I take it you want the high-quality material?"
I nodded. "Yes, and if possible, I'd like a few customizations. Reinforced seams, something that won't wear easily. And perhaps a cooling charm for the summer months, along with an insulating charm for the colder seasons."
Madam Malkin raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "You're a young one with taste, aren't you?" she remarked. "Most first-years don't think that far ahead."
I shrugged, trying to appear casual. "I just believe in being prepared."
"Well, you're in the right place then!" She waved her wand, and the measuring tape came to life, whizzing around me, taking measurements with impressive speed. "Your robes will be ready in no time."
As Madam Malkin worked her measuring magic, I let my mind wander again, the excitement of Hogwarts becoming more tangible with every new purchase. Once I listed the final requirements for my robes—Acromantula silk for its spell resistance and comfort, self-ironing and self-repairing charms, and a minor self-adjusting charm to keep up with my growth throughout the year—the total came to a hefty 450 Galleons. I had also inquired about incorporating dragon hide into the robes, but she regretfully informed me that wasn't possible.
Despite the cost, the investment in quality felt worth it. Madam Malkin even offered a discount if I would model for her new designs. She was persistent, but I politely declined. Still, turning her down wasn't easy, given how insistent she was. After settling the details, she told me the robes would be ready in a few days.
Next on the list was Scribbulus Writing Instruments, where the shop's exquisite quills were displayed in glass cabinets. Each quill had its own unique charm, with feathers of every imaginable color and finely engraved tips. The elderly wizard behind the counter, dressed in ink-splattered robes, greeted me warmly. I placed two custom orders. First, I handed over three of SAL's feathers to be turned into quills. He was practically giddy at the prospect of working with phoenix feathers, swearing it would be some of his finest craftsmanship. Second, I ordered two self-writing quills, enchanted to allow me to input the information I wanted written. It was a small investment that would undoubtedly save me from being overwhelmed by the piles of homework I knew were coming.
He promised both orders would be completed by the end of the day and sent to my home.
At Slug & Jiggers Apothecary, the errand was relatively quick. I ordered two standard pewter cauldrons, because although I was confident in my abilities, it was always best to have a backup. I also picked up two sets of ingredients, some required for school and some for personal experimentation, but I didn't go overboard. After all, I could always replenish my stock by mail. Lastly, I splurged on a set of custom potions equipment—goblin-made vials, tools, and a reinforced cauldron. The craftsmanship was top-notch, and I could only imagine Snape's envy if he ever saw the set.
Finally, I arrived at Flourish and Blotts. This wasn't my first time here, but it was the first time I had the freedom to go all out. In the past, I had only visited as a reward for excelling in my studies, but now, I had no reason to hold back. I filled my basket with Hogwarts standard material for years 1-7 in every subject, books on general spells, party magic, potions beyond the classroom, and even rare dueling manuals. My hands hovered over a few obscure titles on magical theory and care for magical creatures, and I threw those into the pile as well.
Before leaving, I made a quick detour to Borgin and Burkes. There, hidden among the dark artifacts, were a few older, hard-to-find books on topics less discussed in polite circles. Let's just say they were a bit difficult to obtain but would surely be invaluable later. I left Knockturn Alley quietly, the weight of my purchases heavy but satisfying.
By the time I left Eeylops Owl Emporium, everything was complete. Though I had SAL as my loyal phoenix companion, I didn't want to use her for something as mundane as delivering mail. She was more than just a magical creature to me—she was a friend and partner. So, I decided it was only fair to get an owl, one that could handle deliveries and maybe even become a companion to SAL. After all, even magical birds needed friends, right?
I chose a beautiful white and beige female barn owl, with sleek feathers and a piercing gaze that felt fitting for her new name: Artemis. She was regal and graceful, yet had a sharpness to her, just like the goddess she was named after. Hopefully, she and SAL would get along.
With Artemis perched comfortably in her cage, and all my purchases either delivered or arranged, I made a quick stop to get a treat for Susan. After all, she'd been left behind while I went off on this adventure, so it was only fair to bring something back for her. A small box of Sugarplum's finest sweets would do the trick.
Returning home, SAL was waiting for me. However, the sight of Artemis did not seem to sit well with her. Her glowing eyes narrowed, and her feathers ruffled in a way I knew meant she wasn't exactly thrilled with the new arrival. It took some explaining, and more than a few bribes in the form of extra treats, to calm her down
I spent the next few days carefully easing the two birds into each other's company. Artemis, despite her initial shyness, was remarkably friendly and curious. I made sure to spend time with both birds, encouraging gentle interactions and creating a comfortable environment for them. Slowly but surely, SAL began to warm up to Artemis.
The process wasn't instantaneous. There were a few hisses and ruffled feathers along the way, and I had to be patient, constantly reassuring SAL that Artemis wasn't a threat but a new friend who would be part of our little family. I kept Artemis in a separate cage initially, allowing them to get used to each other's presence without any immediate contact. I also made sure to give SAL plenty of attention, so she didn't feel neglected or overshadowed by the newcomer.
In time, Artemis and SAL's interactions became less tense. Artemis was a quick learner, picking up on SAL's cues and responding with playful hoots and hops. Eventually, they were sharing space comfortably, and I even caught them perched next to each other, with Artemis occasionally nuzzling against SAL's feathers in a gesture of newfound friendship.
When everything settled down, I felt a sense of accomplishment. My preparations for Hogwarts were complete, and the transition for both my new owl and SAL had gone smoother than I'd hoped. The excitement of starting my magical education was tempered by the satisfaction of seeing my companions getting along.
I spent the next few days reviewing my new supplies and organizing my room, making sure everything was in order for the start of school. I glanced at my trunk, still waiting for the final touches, and the collection of books and supplies I'd amassed. Each item felt like a step closer to the adventure that awaited me at Hogwarts.
The day of departure drew closer, and I could hardly contain my enthusiasm. I knew that the real journey was about to begin, filled with new challenges, friendships, and discoveries. The magic I had always dreamed of was now within my grasp, and I was more ready than ever to embrace it.
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