As the afternoon sun cast its golden hue over the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, Li Wenhua gazed in awe at the scene before him. The cobblestone street was flanked by an array of medieval-style shops, each window displaying an assortment of magical wares that captured the essence of this enchanted world. Wizards of every age milled about in vibrant robes, adding to the fantastical atmosphere.
"Yes, this is Diagon Alley!" Mary confirmed with a smile, noticing her husband's wonder. She eagerly motioned for them to follow her deeper into the magical marketplace. "Let's explore some of the shops!"
Their first stop was Madam Malkin's, where robes of every color and fabric hung from racks stretching deep into the shop. Next, they paused outside Ollivander's, famous for its wands, though Li William was reminded he would have to wait until he was eleven to choose his. Flourish and Blotts was next, its vast collection of books making it a cornerstone of the wizarding education system in Sakura Country.
Li William's interest peaked when they reached Flourish and Blotts. The idea of diving into a world of magical texts excited him far more than any robe or wand could at the moment. "Mom, can I check out the books? I really love reading!" he asked, tugging at Mary's sleeve while adopting the most angelic expression he could muster.
Mary hesitated, her brow furrowing slightly. "Reading is wonderful, William, but remember, this isn't an ordinary bookstore. Some books here are... well, they're a bit more lively than what you might expect," she cautioned, thinking of the potential hazards.
Li William, understanding the hidden warning in her words—the dangers of magical books like the infamous Monster Book of Monsters—quickly adapted his strategy. "Maybe you could pick one out for me? Something safe?"
Recognizing the sense in this, Mary agreed. "Of course, let's find something appropriate."
They ventured inside, and Mary selected a few titles, presenting them to Li William one by one. Each book was met with a polite but firm rejection—History of the Development of Wizards was too dry; Introduction to Potions was intriguing but not what he sought at the moment. With each refusal, Mary's patience thinned, but she masked her frustration with a smile, reaching again for another potential winner.
Finally, she hesitated with her next choice, her fingers tracing the title of a book she knew held content far beyond beginner's magic: A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration. The subject was a complex and sometimes dangerous branch of magic that involved changing the form or appearance of an object or being.
Li William's eyes sparkled with a mix of real intrigue and calculated intent. "That one, please!"
Mary looked down at her son, her expression torn between maternal protection and pride in his ambitious interest. "Transfiguration is powerful magic, William. It's not without its risks."
"I know, Mum, but I think I'm ready. I'll be careful, I promise!" Li William pleaded. His earnestness seemed to resonate with Mary, who finally relented, handing him the book with a stern reminder of the caution he needed to exercise.
With the book in hand, Li William felt a surge of anticipation. Transfiguration could be a versatile tool, offering both protective and practical magic that could serve him well in a variety of situations. Whether converting an object into a shield or conjuring a makeshift chair, the possibilities were endless.
As they left Flourish and Blotts, Mary's parting words to the shopkeeper echoed in Li William's mind: "Keep an eye on him; he's got a sharp one here." The journey through Diagon Alley was not just an introduction to the magical marketplace but a step forward in Li William's magical education, one that might one day save his life or the lives of others.