Arrival in Knockturn Alley

"Luo Bin, do you know the way to Flourish and Blotts?"

"Well enough!"

"That's a relief. I have something to take care of, so I might not be able to go with you..."

Luo Bin knew Hagrid was going to Knockturn Alley and would bring back a lost Harry from there. "It's fine, Hagrid. I can manage on my own. Go take care of your business!"

"If you run into trouble, dash into the middle of the street and grab the next wizard's money bag. He'll help you!"

What did he take everyone else for? Three-year-olds who could be lured away with a few sweets?

"I'll remember that, Hagrid!"

Only after reminding him several more times did Hagrid turn to leave. He took long strides, as though he was in a hurry. He didn't notice the black-haired boy following a dozen or so meters behind him at an easy pace.

Knockturn Alley had only been mentioned once or twice in the original story, with little description beyond its reputation as a rough commercial street full of shady businesses.

Using the displays along the street for cover, Luo Bin followed Hagrid through a maze of turns to Knockturn Alley. Once he saw Hagrid enter the Insect Repellent Shop, he jogged into a side alley and began looking around at his leisure.

Both sides of the street were lined with shops dealing in Dark Magic. Their window displays favored the macabre: black spider specimens taller than a person's waist, skulls glowing red, and wind chimes strung with dried bat carcasses. Even the snack shops displayed animal organs and insect biscuits.

The wizards walking the street were dressed just as strangely. Some wore rags and had smeared themselves the gray-brown color of the ground. They looked like beggars and grinned foolishly whenever they