Entering the ratty looking pub, Integra did her best to hide her surprise. To begin with, the inside of the pub looked in much better repair that the outside and it was also quite larger inside that she would have thought. Either this old pub was the product of an architectural genius or, Integra grimaced, magic.
The second thing she noticed was the few people in the pub. Integra couldn’t help but notice the stereotypical long robes and pointed hats the various men and women; no...wizards and witches were wearing. The fact that the room had quieted as she and Walter had entered and everyone’s attention was drawn to the two of them also didn’t escape Integra’s attention. There eyes quickly darted first to her family’s old retainer with suspicion before they glanced at her with sudden understanding before the patrons when back to their drinks.
Having no desire to be the center of attention, Integra quickly followed Walter as he walked towards the barkeep.
‘If Walter thinks that there’s nothing wrong with these...people then perhaps I should at least try to get use to the thought of them and their magic.’ the young heiress thought to herself with a mix of resignation and anger. ‘It’s not like I have any choice in the matter. But under no circumstances whatsoever am I going allow someone to force me to wear one of those dreadful hats!’
“Welcome to the Leaky Caldron, my name’s Tom. What can I do for you?” The barkeep introduced himself as Integra and Walter neared the bar.
“I’m told that entrance to a place called ‘Daigon Alley’ could be obtained here.” Walter answered with a light confused tone, “Perhaps you might be able to assist us?”
“Of course,” Tom said, rounding the bar and motioning the pair to follow them. “I take it you’re bringing around your granddaughter to gather her school supplies for Hogwarts, yes?”
Integra couldn’t help but snort slightly as Walter replied, “I am merely a humble family retainer. Unfortunately, my Master was unable to come today so he asked me to escort his daughter on her trip.”
“I see.” said Tom with a friendly smile as he held the back door to the pub open for them. “Well, in that case, I hope you wouldn’t mind a little advice?”
“Not at all, my good man. Not at all.” replied Walter as they followed the barkeep into the back alley.
“I would first suggest you visit Gringotts where you’ll be able to change your Pounds for Galleons. From there, I’d suggest you either visit Madam Malkin's for her school robes or Ollivanders so she can get her wand. Flourish and Blotts is where you can pick up her books and there are several stores nearby where you can find the rest of her supplies. Oh, and it would be best if you avoid Knockturn Alley; it's not exactly the best place for someone so young.” Tom said with an ease that suggested he had given this advice many times before.
Nodding his thanks, Walter said, “We shall keep that in mind.”
As they approached a brick wall, Integra watched with an almost morbid fascination as Tom pulled out a wand and tapped a specific brick three times. Then, to her shock, the bricks of the wall began to shake before the folded back on each other revealing an archway.
“Oh, by the way,” Tom said as he looked at the young heiress with a smile in his eyes. “I didn’t catch your name my dear.”
“Integra.” She introduced herself, with the grace and bearing she was taught since birth. “Integra Wingates Fairbrooks Hellsing; at your service.”
Integra couldn’t help but smirking as the barkeeps face suddenly became white as he stuttered “He...He...Hellsing?”
“Come along, Madam Integra. We have much to do.” Walter said, stepping through the archway leading to Daigon Alley.
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(Posted Wed, 24 Nov 2004 04:23)
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