"You are amazing, my dear. I have never seen such a beautiful design," Mrs. Malkin sighed as she carefully examined each drawing.
"Oh, these are all Muggle styles," Albert said modestly, shaking his head.
"Then, can I order a uniform like this?"
"Of course. I can't wait to see what the finished product will look like," Mrs. Malkin said, visibly excited. Then she hesitated for a moment, looking slightly embarrassed before continuing, "If... I mean, if you'd allow me to use these designs for others as well, then every year during your seven years at Hogwarts, I will custom-make your uniforms using the finest materials—for free. What do you say?"
Mrs. Malkin looked at Albert with anticipation. After a moment's thought, Albert realized it was a good deal and agreed happily.
Later, they headed to Flourish and Blotts to buy textbooks. Albert not only purchased the complete set of first-year books but also bought all textbooks from Charms to Transfiguration up to the seventh-year level. Additionally, his curiosity led him to pick up a copy of A Simple Introduction to Ancient Magic Texts and Hogwarts: A History.
"Although you're still quite young, I'm delighted to see someone interested in ancient magic texts," said Dumbledore, observing Albert's choices. "Only two students chose to study ancient runes last term. Far too few. Professor Babbling will be thrilled to have you in her class."
Then he added with a slight chuckle, "But ancient runes are a bit tricky. I hope you're prepared for that."
"I just want to understand where magic comes from," Albert said, flipping open A Simple Introduction to Ancient Magic Texts. "This book says modern spells are simplified forms of ancient runes. Magical item creation also relates to them. I believe by studying ancient runes, I can trace the origins of magical power."
"I must say," Dumbledore replied with a warm smile, "you're bound for Ravenclaw."
After asking about the values of each Hogwarts house, Albert thoughtfully remarked, "The strength of a wizard lies in their knowledge of magic. So only those who pursue knowledge can be considered true wizards. In that sense, Ravenclaw suits me best."
Once they finished paying, Albert was faced with a mountain of books. His schoolbag was far too small to hold them all. With a helpless sigh, he looked toward Dumbledore.
"You can use the Shrinking Charm to shrink the books and fit them into your bag," Dumbledore said, taking out his wand and tapping the stack. "Reducio."
Immediately, the books shrank down until each was no larger than a fingernail. Fēijū, who was nestled inside the schoolbag, curiously poked her head out to observe the miniature books.
"If you want to restore them to normal size, just say Engorgio," Dumbledore added.
Albert, intrigued, pulled out his new wand, mimicked Dumbledore's posture, and pointed at one of the shrunken books.
"Engorgio."
The fingernail-sized book expanded back to its original size. Fēijū, caught off guard, was bumped on the nose by the growing book and let out a startled "meow" before retreating into the schoolbag.
Albert gently stroked her head. "Careful, little one."
Then he tried the Shrinking Charm on the same book.
"Reducio."
Instantly, the book shrank back to miniature size.
Dumbledore watched, visibly surprised. Albert had not only learned the spell after seeing it performed once, but he had cast it perfectly. Even more remarkable was his ability to deduce the reverse spell and succeed on the first try.
"Though you've heard it several times today," Dumbledore said slowly, "I must say again—you truly are a genius."
Albert packed all the miniaturized books into his bag and reminded Fēijū not to damage them. Then he followed Dumbledore to continue shopping for the remaining supplies.
At the cauldron shop, he bought a foldable pewter cauldron that could stir itself automatically, a set of glass and crystal potion vials, a telescope, and a set of brass scales.
At the Magical Menagerie, Albert declined to purchase an owl. He planned instead to summon an animal companion of his own for delivering messages. However, he did buy some premium cat food for Fēijū. He suspected that magical cat food might help her grow faster or even awaken her monster lineage sooner than expected.
This entire shopping spree left his once-bulging wallet empty. The financial blow made Albert more determined than ever to use his prophetic knowledge and magical abilities to earn money in the Muggle world during the next summer holiday. Not being able to buy the finest experimental tools had bruised his pride as a time traveler.
At Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor, Dumbledore treated him to a large sundae. But to Albert's dismay, the headmaster also bought himself a cockroach cluster, which nearly made Albert gag.
Finally, with all their errands complete, Dumbledore prepared to send Albert back to the orphanage using Apparition.
Before leaving, Dumbledore looked at him kindly and said, "Mr. Albert, you are a true genius—and a kind-hearted young man. I hope you use the gift of magic wisely. Always remember—what defines a person is not their power, but the choices they make."
He gave a playful wink, then disappeared on the spot.