The dawn was breaking over the Black Forest, casting long shadows across the ancient stone walls of Peverell Castle. Alaric Peverell stood at the castle's grand entrance, his eyes fixed on the distant horizon. The letter from Hogwarts was still clutched in his hand, a tangible reminder that the world beyond the forest was waiting for him.
Morgana, his guardian and mentor, appeared silently at his side. Her eyes, as sharp and green as his own, studied him for a moment before she spoke. "Today is the day you step into the world of wizards, Alaric," she said softly. "You must be prepared, not just with knowledge, but with the tools of a wizard."
Alaric nodded, his mind already racing with thoughts of what lay ahead. He had read about Diagon Alley in the many books that lined the castle's vast library, but he had never imagined he would one day walk its cobblestone streets himself.
"How do we get there?" Alaric asked, his voice steady but tinged with excitement.
Morgana smiled and reached into the folds of her robes, producing a small, silver key. "This is a Portkey," she explained, handing it to Alaric. "It will take us directly to Diagon Alley. Hold on to it tightly."
Alaric took the key, feeling a strange warmth emanating from it. He grasped it firmly, and the world around him blurred. The ancient stones of Peverell Castle, the looming trees of the Black Forest—all of it vanished in an instant, replaced by the bustling, magical atmosphere of Diagon Alley.
The street was alive with wizards and witches of all kinds, their robes swirling as they moved from shop to shop. The air was thick with the scent of potions, the sound of laughter, and the hum of powerful magic. Alaric took a deep breath, feeling a surge of energy course through him. This was his world now, a world of wonder and danger.
"First, we visit Gringotts," Morgana said, guiding Alaric through the throng of people. "You will need funds to purchase your school supplies, and there are certain... heirlooms that belong to your family, which are kept there for safekeeping."
Gringotts loomed before them, a towering white building guarded by goblins. The creatures eyed Alaric with a mix of suspicion and curiosity as he and Morgana approached. Inside, the grand hall was filled with the clinking of gold coins and the scratching of quills on parchment. Goblins moved swiftly between the rows of high counters, attending to their business with ruthless efficiency.
"We are here to access the Peverell vault," Morgana said to the nearest goblin, her voice cold and authoritative.
The goblin's eyes widened slightly at the mention of the name but quickly composed himself. "Of course," he said, nodding. "Follow me."
They were led to a small, rickety cart that took them deep beneath the bank, through winding tunnels illuminated by the flickering light of torches. The ride was fast and disorienting, but Alaric remained focused, his mind racing with thoughts of what treasures and secrets the vault might hold.
Finally, they came to a stop in front of an enormous, intricately carved door. The goblin handed Morgana a small, silver key—the very same that had served as their Portkey—and she inserted it into the lock. The door creaked open, revealing a vast chamber filled with gold, jewels, and ancient artifacts.
Alaric stepped inside, his eyes wide with wonder. The wealth of his ancestors was staggering, but it was the magical items that truly captivated him. He could feel the power emanating from them, ancient and potent.
"These are your birthright," Morgana said, her voice filled with pride. "But remember, Alaric, power is not in gold or artifacts. It is in how you wield it."
Alaric nodded, understanding the gravity of her words. He gathered a modest amount of gold—enough to purchase his school supplies—and took a small, ornate ring that Morgana had pointed out as a family heirloom, a symbol of his lineage. The ring was made of black metal, set with a single, dark green gemstone that seemed to pulse with an inner light. Alaric slid it onto his finger, feeling a strange connection with it, as if it had been waiting for him.(his ring has been added to the character images aswell)
Ring:
Their business in Gringotts complete, Alaric and Morgana returned to the bustling street of Diagon Alley. The day had only just begun, and there was much to do.