C 68

Although Knockturn Alley and Diagon Alley are separated by only a wall, the two locations present strikingly different environments and atmospheres. Upon entering Knockturn Alley, Kain immediately felt the oppressive air of darkness that loomed over the place.

Shadows danced along the cobblestones, and the occasional flicker of dim lanterns cast an eerie glow. 

As he stepped deeper into the alley, he quickly noticed the predatory gazes of the dark wizards lurking around. They instantly fixed their attention on him, a newcomer in their territory.

However, Kain was unperturbed; anyone who dared to stir trouble should prepare for an explosive response.

He had come prepared, carrying five explosive tags and ten kilograms of explosives on him. The death of his Shadow Clone would leave him feeling somewhat uneasy, but he knew that for the inhabitants of Knockturn Alley, danger was a daily reality.

Despite the dark wizards' reputation, the nearby houses remained intact, strengthened by powerful protective spells cast on each brick. It was clear that even in a place steeped in darkness, some semblance of caution prevailed.

The onlookers hesitated, choosing to observe rather than act, perhaps weighing the risks of confronting someone who appeared unfazed by their surroundings.

Kain's confidence radiated from him, and he knew that he had the means to defend himself should the need arise.

As he approached the Bojinbok shop, he took a moment to survey his surroundings before stepping inside. The store was dimly lit and crammed with an assortment of strange and potentially dangerous items.

Kain exercised caution, ensuring not to touch anything without knowing what it might be.

"Welcome, esteemed guest. You look quite out of place here. Are you visiting from somewhere else? Whatever you desire can be found here!" A thin, wiry man with sharp eyes emerged from behind the counter, tapping rhythmically on the table and displaying a phony smile that screamed of opportunism.

"I hope your claims are true," Kain replied coolly.

"Galleons are not a problem for me, as long as you can procure everything on this list." He retrieved the parchment containing the items he sought and slid it across the counter.

Bojinbok's expression shifted dramatically as he glanced at the list. His smile faltered and morphed into something akin to shock as he read through the requested items.

"This... no one can obtain these things. The phoenix is a rare creature, clearly documented in the British wizarding world at Hogwarts. No one would take such a risk to deal with a unicorn," he stammered, clearly unnerved.

"Are you saying that aside from those two, you can acquire the rest? Including Felix Felicis?" Kain pressed, his tone firm.

"The Bojinbok store has connections that extend to Romania. As for Felix Felicis, it can be arranged, provided you have the Galleons," Bojinbok replied, regaining some of his composure.

Kain considered this information carefully. If Bojinbok could indeed secure dragon flesh and blood, then acquiring the components from other magical creatures would be feasible.

However, the difficulty of procuring a phoenix and a unicorn remained. If Kain truly desired these rare items, he would likely have to seek out Dumbledore.

"Two thousand Galleons," Bojinbok stated, his eyes gleaming with greed. "That's just a deposit. Come back here in twenty days, and I'll have what you need."

As the mention of Galleons hung in the air, Kain could see the excitement written all over Bojinbok's face. "In addition to fixing that cabinet you mentioned, you'll need to ensure payment comes through later."

Kain chose not to respond verbally, feeling that the matter was settled.

However, Bojinbok added, "This cabinet is a pair. If you don't find the other one, fixing it won't make any difference." His implication was clear; he knew something about the whereabouts of the second cabinet.

Just then, another figure identical to Kain entered the Bojinbok store. Bojinbok's eyes widened in disbelief at the sight of Kain's other Shadow Clone.

But then, realization struck him: Polyjuice Potion. He recognized its potential for deception, but taking such a potion was also a sign of cowardice.

In Knockturn Alley, it was best to assert oneself through strength rather than subterfuge. Bojinbok reasoned that his own safety lay in simply collecting the money, regardless of whether Kain's other self had any nefarious intentions.

If something were to go wrong and Kain met his demise in the alley, Bojinbok would pocket an easy two thousand Galleons.

Once the transaction was confirmed, Bojinbok waved Kain off, indicating that there were no issues. Kain felt no need to linger, wanting instead to purchase some additional black market items.

However, he was acutely aware of his own lack of knowledge regarding dark artifacts; hasty purchases could lead to severe consequences.

Even the materials and potions he had just acquired would be scrutinized by his elf for traces of black magic upon his return home.

"Safe journey, sir," Bojinbok called as Kain made his exit.

"You should be praying for others," Kain replied cryptically, leaving the shop behind him.

After Kain departed, Bojinbok hurriedly collected the two thousand Galleons, curiosity about Kain's confidence gnawing at him. He decided to follow discreetly, wanting to observe from a distance.

Just as he stepped outside, an ear-splitting explosion echoed in the distance. It sounded like thunder tearing through the air, shocking Bojinbok to his core.

He stumbled backward and fell to the ground, momentarily stunned. When he regained his composure, he cast a protective charm on himself, joining the gathering throng of dark wizards moving toward the explosion's origin.

As he approached, Bojinbok began to hear the sounds of wizards screaming in terror. "That... unfamiliar wizard... just exploded out of nowhere!" one of them shouted.

"That was definitely powerful dark magic! They were like twins, identical to one another!" another wizard exclaimed.

Collecting information as he moved, Bojinbok raced back toward his shop, his heart racing. He had never expected that a customer would unleash such chaotic magic simply because of a disagreement.

The ensuing devastation had likely claimed the lives of four or five dark wizards who had long dwelled in Knockturn Alley.

Upon returning to his store, Bojinbok spotted a note on the counter that read, "Don't forget the time of the transaction, Mr. Bojinbok."

"What a... crazy guy," he muttered, trembling slightly. Realizing the gravity of the situation, he hurried to prepare the items for the transaction.

He recognized that he could not afford to make any mistakes in this business, or the consequences would far exceed five thousand Galleons.

News of the explosion quickly spread, attracting the attention of the Aurors from the Ministry of Magic.

Normally, the Aurors avoided Knockturn Alley unless there was significant trouble, but the commotion from the explosion was impossible to ignore.

Meanwhile, after the demise of Kain's Shadow Clone, he felt a strange sensation as his eyes glowed faintly red. The sudden return of Chakra, laden with the memories of its death, left a troubling residue.

However, Extremis swiftly repaired any damage to his mind, restoring his focus.

Moments later, there was a knock on the door. Phil answered it, revealing Hermione's proud little figure as she bounced in, unable to conceal her delight.

"Thank you, Phil!" she exclaimed as she entered, which left Phil somewhat flustered. He finally retreated to the basement, overwhelmed by emotion.

"Godfather Kain, I've made progress! This is the potion for treating scabies, and Guy said my results were outstanding!" she beamed.

"That's incredible, as expected from my talented goddaughter! I knew you would excel. But Hermione, you really should take a proper rest. If you'd like, I can show you around London," Kain suggested, noticing the dark circles under her eyes. He felt a responsibility to ensure she didn't overwork herself.

"Also, there's one more thing I'd like to ask you. Once school begins, I hope you'll help me deliver a letter to Professor Dumbledore at Hogwarts."

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