As you open the door to the shop, a large tawny owl perched above your head calls out 'Who, Who!'
You look around in amazement as hundreds of animals of all shapes and sizes take notice of you. A tall witch behind the counter smiles at you, and the owl again cries out 'Who, Who!'
The witch says, "You'd better answer 'er. Otherwise, she won't ever stop."
"Answer her?" you ask, confused.
"Your name, dear." The witch replies. "The owl won't stop until you tell 'er your name."
"Oh, umm.." you stammer, "."
The owl cocks her head sideways and quietly says "Who?"
Just then, there is a loud 'Pop!' right outside the shop, as a dozen or so witches and wizards appear out of nowhere in the middle of the street that you just left. They all begin frantically running about questioning the people nearest to the entrance to Diagon Alley.
The shop owner walks over to you and looks out into the street.
"Magical Law Enforcement is sure on edge today." She is talking to herself as much as she is to you. "Never like this." She continues, "with Harry Potter starting classes, everyone's wand is in a knot. Just today, I've seen these hot heads detain three kids fer underage use of magic. It's Diagon Alley fer goodness sake! Kids are going to get excited and cast a bit of magic!"
You are familiar with the decree against underage use of magic, as your brother actually received a warning last summer after he attempted to curse you in the kitchen for taking the last piece of bacon. You must have set off some alarm when you used your brother's wand.
"Well," the shop owner sighs, "I guess they will seal off the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron for an hour or so while they get it sorted out. Since I won't have any customers for a while, would you like for me to show you around? You look like a first year, are you in need of a pet?"
Abandoning your idea of asking this witch for help opening the brick entrance, you nod your head and begin looking around the shop.
If you are talented in Care of Magical Creatures, turn to page 232.
Otherwise, turn to page 314.