Karmit's relationship with Professor McGonagall had never been bad. Since she frequently visited Diagon Alley, they crossed paths often.
And for someone like Karmit—an adult mind in a child's body—he understood perfectly well that in this world there were no eternal friends or eternal enemies.
Only interests lasted forever.
Naturally, he had taken the initiative to speak with Professor McGonagall many times.
As for the real reason… the vast knowledge possessed by this dignified, cat-loving witch was something he coveted deeply.
Professor McGonagall said, "Let me introduce you. These are Mr. and Mrs. Granger, and this is their daughter, Hermione Granger. She will be your classmate."
Karmit nodded politely. "Welcome to my shop, Mr. Granger, Mrs. Granger, and Hermione."
Mr. Granger blinked in surprise. "This is your shop?"
Karmit nodded. "Yes. To be precise, you've probably visited several of the shops under my name already. For example, the book you're holding—you likely purchased it from one of mine."
Mr. Granger exclaimed, "Goodness, you're remarkable. Your parents must be extraordinary people."
"Thank you," Karmit said with a small smile. "If they were still alive, I'm sure they would appreciate your words."
Mr. Granger froze, then hurriedly said, "I'm terribly sorry—I didn't know."
"It's fine, sir. That all happened long ago. What would you like to drink? Since this is our first meeting, it's on me."
"No, no, we've already exchanged our money for Galleons," Mr. Granger said quickly.
Karmit replied, "But it's my gesture of goodwill. Besides, your daughter and I are about to become classmates. I doubt a few cups of coffee would be reason enough to refuse my kindness."
Mr. Granger hesitated.
Professor McGonagall stepped in. "Just accept, Mr. Granger. Karmit is a good child—warm-hearted and very generous."
"Well… in that case," Mr. Granger said, "I'm a dentist. If you ever need dental care, I can treat you for free."
"That sounds wonderful," Karmit said. "If I have the time, I'll pay your clinic a visit."
Soon, three coffees and a warm cup of milk were ready. Karmit personally escorted McGonagall and the Granger family to the door before returning to Lucius' side.
Lucius studied him with suspicion. "From what I know of you, you are not what I'd call a generous person."
Karmit smiled. "Who knows? Maybe you don't understand me as well as you think."
Lucius raised an eyebrow. "If it were anyone else, perhaps. But you… admit it, Karmit. You're a pure opportunist. Every move you make is profit-driven.
It seems that little witch caught your interest. What talent does she have that you value? No, wait—clearly this is the first time you've met her. Then why?"
Karmit simply said, "Uncle, we should get to our shopping."
Realizing Karmit had no intention of answering, Lucius dropped the issue. He was curious, yes, but not enough to press.
The group stepped out of the café, ready to begin their day of purchases.
.....
Professor McGonagall guided the Granger family out of Diagon Alley's entrance near the Leaky Cauldron before taking her leave.
Mr. Granger flagged down a taxi, and the family climbed inside.
"That boy was truly exceptional," Mr. Granger said.
Mrs. Granger nodded. "Yes, incredibly. Polite, composed—almost like a young noble. Hermione, what do you think?"
Hermione sat with her arms crossed, leaning against the car door, her expression full of dissatisfaction.
As someone who had spent her childhood hearing how she was always the best among her peers, she did not appreciate her parents praising another child her age.
It was a very normal kind of young pride.
She huffed, "I don't know."
Mr. and Mrs. Granger exchanged a knowing glance and smiled.
Mrs. Granger slipped an arm around Hermione's shoulders. "My, my. Our little Hermione is upset."
Hermione pouted.
"Hermione," Mrs. Granger continued, "you must learn to acknowledge when someone else is excellent. That boy is likely from an old wizarding family.
He is indeed impressive, but I believe you will surpass him soon enough. After all, when it comes to studying, our Hermione has never lost."
Hermione's expression brightened instantly. "I won't lose. I'll prove I'm the best."
Mrs. Granger lightly tapped Hermione's nose. "Of course you will. Our Hermione is the brightest."
Hermione's mind drifted to Karmit's composed expression, and her competitive fire grew even stronger. She would prove herself—definitely.
Little did she know, the days of her defeats were only just beginning.
Diagon Alley.
Outside Ollivander's Wand Shop, Karmit and the Malfoy family stood waiting.
There were young witches and wizards inside purchasing wands, and even they had to wait outside.
Not due to any rule, but simply because of safety—wand purchasing could be unpredictable.
Lucius frowned at the worn-out storefront. "I'll never understand why old Ollivander refuses to renovate this shabby shop."
Karmit said, "An aged appearance is still a style… though Ollivander's shop does seem to ignore the concept of renovations entirely."
Lucius sighed. "Forget it. Karmit, you and Draco wait here. Narcissa and I will buy each of you a pet.
Once you two have your wands, meet us at your family's clothing shop. I'll have the rest of the magical supplies delivered to your estate."
Karmit nodded. "I'll have the books delivered as well."
Lucius led Narcissa away.
The entrance to the wand shop was packed—far too many people, including plenty of Muggles.
Lucius had practically run away from the crowd.