After trying over a hundred wands, Wayne had become something of a novice expert.
If the wand didn't match, his magical power would push back, and the spells he cast would be erratic. If he didn't feel much of anything, he'd merely conjure a bit of water or set off a couple of fireworks to make a show of it. But when he found the right match, most of the spells he cast would involve transformations.
However, he had never encountered a wand that felt as perfectly harmonious in his hands as this one did. It was like finding the most beautiful princess in a karaoke bar, and he couldn't wait to show off his skills.
Wayne instinctively raised the wand high. A silver-white mist began to swirl out and gradually coalesce in the air.
Professor McGonagall, momentarily confused, quickly realized what was happening and was taken aback: "Impossible!"
Ollivander's lips were trembling.
"The Patronus Charm... it's actually the Patronus Charm..."
Besides being an incredibly advanced defensive charm against dark magic, even many adult wizards struggled to master it. But what kind of young wizard would instinctively cast a Patronus upon receiving their wand?!
The silver-white Patronus finally took shape, and McGonagall and Ollivander stared intently, their expressions turning blank.
"This is... an egg?"
Wayne, too, was utterly speechless.
What the heck?! Who would have a Patronus that was an egg? Was he supposed to throw this egg to smash Dementors?
Hurry up and hatch already!
Hmm?
Wayne's mind sparked with a thought—could it be connected to the Pokémon egg that was currently hatching at home?
With the wand drooping slightly, the Patronus began to dissipate, and Ollivander's and McGonagall's shock started to wear off.
"An excellent performance, Mr. Lawrence," Ollivander said, taking a deep breath. "This moment will be permanently recorded in the history of the Ollivander family."
"It is said that the yew tree was used by Hercules to honor his father, the god Zeus, and was regarded as a sacred tree in ancient Greece."
"And unicorn hair is one of the purest materials, known for its loyalty and stability."
"I believe you will achieve great heights in Defense Against the Dark Arts, perhaps even become the next Dumbledore."
Wayne chuckled, teasing, "You don't say this to every young wizard, do you?"
Ollivander smiled but said nothing.
He did tend to compliment wizards when selling wands, but that was more for his KPIs than anything else. However, this time, there was a hint of sincerity.
...
After paying seven galleons for the wand, and spending another fifteen galleons on a complete set of advanced wand care tools, the two finally left Ollivander's shop.
It was quite the sting.
Now Wayne understood why such an important piece of equipment like a wand only cost seven galleons. On one hand, the Ministry of Magic subsidized the first wand for every young wizard, covering the difference that Ollivander would reimburse. On the other hand, there was after-sales service—much like the convenience stores in the Muggle world, the real profit lay behind the initial sale.
…
He had no time to dwell on the joy of acquiring his wand, as they had already lost too much time and needed to hurry along.
Bookstore, clothing shop, cauldron shop, astronomy shop.
After a round of shopping, Wayne finally gathered everything he needed for Hogwarts and even bought several books that piqued his interest.
Luckily, both Leaky Cauldron and other shops offered owl delivery services for just three Sickles in shipping fees, making Wayne marvel at the affordability of prices in the wizarding world.
Three Sickles—it was practically like free shipping.
The only regret was that, with Professor McGonagall accompanying him, there were many amusing little trinkets he couldn't buy, such as itching powder or dung bombs for pranks.
Just before they parted ways, McGonagall asked once more if Wayne needed to buy a pet.
First-year students were allowed to bring owls, toads, or mice as pets.
Wayne had no interest in any of those three creatures; even the most adorable Scottish Fold he didn't think he needed.
Owls were typically used for sending messages, and he didn't have any wizarding friends to contact at the moment. If he ever needed one, he could just borrow from a classmate or use the school's.
...
"Mr. Lawrence, my task is done. The next time we meet will be at the start of term."
Using Disapparation once more, McGonagall sent Wayne back home, preparing to head to another young wizard's house for a visit.
Before leaving, McGonagall said, "Although the Ministry doesn't allow young wizards to cast spells off-campus, there are always exceptions."
With a knowing look, she added, "For the next month, you can try previewing your coursework and learn some less dangerous spells. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an owl at Diagon Alley."
Having experienced the shock in Ollivander's shop, McGonagall now had high hopes for Wayne's talent and didn't mind giving him some helpful guidance.
Wayne's eyes brightened at her words.
"Won't that bother you, Professor?"
Even though he had great talent and advantages now, learning magic wasn't something that happened in an instant.
Realizing one's potential still required a significant amount of knowledge and practice, and with the help of a master like McGonagall, Wayne could avoid many detours.
"Of course not; I'm more than happy to help eager young wizards with their questions."
With that, McGonagall waved goodbye again and Disapparated away.
Wayne watched her leave and then turned to walk back to his home.
He was grateful for McGonagall's kindness, but Gryffindor?
That wasn't the house Wayne wanted to join!
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