ALL NOVEL Chapter 23: Chapter 23: A New Venture
Knockturn Alley was alive with its usual sinister energy. The narrow cobblestone streets were shrouded in shadow, the flickering light from ancient lamps barely illuminating the crooked buildings that leaned toward one another as if conspiring in secret. For most, the alley was a place of danger, a forbidden destination whispered about in the corners of respectable wizarding establishments. For Alex and Tom Riddle, it was an opportunity.
The brothers walked side by side, their steps purposeful. Tom's black cloak billowed slightly in the breeze, and Alex's sharp gaze scanned the area with an air of determination. They had a mission: to establish something new, something ground-breaking—a shop that would house spell books filled with their original creations.
After days of searching, they found the perfect location—a small, dilapidated building tucked away in a quieter corner of the alley. Its faded sign hung askew, and the interior was coated in a thick layer of dust. But beneath the grime and neglect, Alex and Tom saw potential. Together, they worked tirelessly to transform the space, their magic weaving through the air as they repaired walls, polished floors, and enchanted shelves to hold their precious tomes.
Each book on the shelves was a labour of love, containing spells the brothers had spent months perfecting. Some were simple yet innovative, designed to make everyday tasks easier. Others were complex, the kind of magic that could challenge even the most skilled wizards. Every page reflected their shared brilliance, their creativity, and their vision for a magical world unbound by tradition.
Once the shop was ready, Alex and Tom knew they needed someone to manage it in their absence. They had no intention of neglecting their studies at Hogwarts, but the shop needed to thrive. After much deliberation, they found the perfect candidate: an elf-fairy hybrid. This unique being, born from the magical worlds of Black Clover and the Seven Deadly Sins, possessed both the wisdom of age-old magic and the enthusiasm of a youthful spirit.
The hybrid, whom they named Elyria, had an ethereal presence. Her delicate wings shimmered like liquid silver, and her sharp, intelligent eyes seemed to hold the knowledge of centuries. Elyria quickly proved herself capable, managing the shop with a blend of efficiency and charm that drew in curious customers from across the wizarding world. Under her care, the shop became a hub for those seeking new and exciting magic.
The day of the grand opening arrived, and Knockturn Alley was abuzz with rumors. Wizards and witches of all kinds, from the curious to the sceptical, gathered outside the shop. Alex and Tom stood at the entrance, their expressions a mix of pride and anticipation.
"Welcome to Riddle's Innovations," Tom announced, his voice carrying over the murmurs of the crowd. "Inside, you'll find magic that pushes the boundaries of what's possible. Each spell book is a testament to our dedication to the art of magic."
As the doors opened, the crowd surged inside. Customers marvelled at the glowing shelves, the enchanted displays, and the intricate designs of the books. Some lingered over spells that conjured temporary illusions, while others eagerly flipped through pages of advanced enchantments that promised to revolutionize potion-making and duelling.
Alex watched the scene unfold with a sense of satisfaction. "This is just the beginning," he said quietly to Tom, who nodded in agreement.
Over the weeks that followed, Riddle's Innovations became a staple of Knockturn Alley. The shop's reputation spread quickly, drawing in everyone from ambitious students to seasoned wizards eager to explore new magic. Elyria managed the shop with flair, her presence adding an otherworldly charm that kept customers coming back.
Even as they returned to Hogwarts, Alex and Tom kept a close eye on their creation. They received regular updates from Elyria and made time to develop new spells whenever inspiration struck. The shop was more than a business; it was a legacy, a symbol of their ingenuity and ambition.
For Alex and Tom, Riddle's Innovations was a step toward reshaping the magical world. And as they stood in the shadows of Hogwarts, their thoughts already turning to their next adventure, they knew they were only just getting started.