Chapter 16 — Threads of Innovation
Ron perched on the edge of the Burrow's kitchen table, twirling a quill between his fingers. Across from him, Molly stirred a pot of tea, her eyes darting between the steam rising from the kettle and her youngest son. Ginny sat on the floor nearby, quietly fidgeting with a small wooden toy, her small hands turning it over as she watched Ron sketch.
"Mum," Ron began, careful to keep his tone casual, though excitement vibrated beneath every word, "I was thinking… I need to go to Diagon Alley. There are a few textbooks I need for my… potions project. And… I'd like to get my own owl this time. One that can actually find its way home properly."
Molly raised an eyebrow, pausing mid-stir. "Your own owl, Ronald? And textbooks, you say? That's quite a list for a boy your age."
Ron leaned forward, earnest. "And, um… there's also some business I need to discuss with Madame Malkin. Small project, I promise."
Ginny, eyes bright but voice quiet, asked softly, "Can I come too?"
Ron smiled reassuringly. "Of course, Ginny. You can come with us."
Molly chuckled, setting down the spoon and wiping her hands on her apron. "Very well. Saturday, then. You, your sister, and I. But only after I finish a few things here."
Ron's mind immediately shifted to Diagon Alley — the smell of parchment, the glint of cauldrons in shop windows, the subtle hum of enchantments weaving through the air. But alongside that excitement was a surge of creativity and strategy. He pulled parchment and quill from his bag, beginning to sketch.
The first design was a set of wizarding suits: smart, tailored robes with concealed pockets for spell components, flexible sleeves for wand work, and enchantments that resisted stains from potion spills. Subtle moving details were added — shimmer along the cuffs, images of flowing rivers across the lapels — nods to magical elegance.
Next came casual wear. T-shirts enchanted with shifting, animated pictures — dancing dragons, changing house crests, and occasional playful elements, inspired by Ginny's curiosity, like a tiny figure exploring the shirt alongside the wearer. Harem-style pants followed, loose and comfortable, with hidden charm linings that kept the wearer cool or warm depending on the season.
Finally, he tackled a magical 2025-inspired casual collection — wizarding streetwear adapted from Muggle trends. Hoodies that responded to mood, sneakers with small levitation charms for easier movement, hats that shifted color depending on the wearer's thoughts, gloves with subtle spell triggers embroidered along the seams. Each piece balanced practicality with magical innovation.
As he sketched, Ron's mind wandered beyond the aesthetics. If these sell… if wizards and witches at Hogwarts and beyond want these… I could manage a small line. Keep costs low, charge fairly… maybe even reinvest. He paused, tapping the quill against his lip. Not yet. I need to know the market in the wizarding world first. Potions, robes, magical clothing… what sells, what fails, who notices trends. Then I can plan carefully.
Ginny's quiet fidgeting beside him nudged another idea. She notices everything… maybe the younger ones like her would like clothes that move, clothes that surprise them. Something playful. That could be part of a line for first-years.
Molly, peering over his shoulder, tilted her head, impressed despite herself. "Ron, these are… extraordinary. You've thought of everything. From comfort to enchantments, even the practicalities of carrying spell components. You're thinking like a designer… and a wizard."
Ron's grin widened. "Thanks, Mum. I just… want people to have clothing that's practical but also magical. Something new for Hogwarts, maybe beyond. And… maybe someday, I can earn enough to fund my own projects. Small ideas, for now."
Molly smiled softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Well, I can't wait to see these come to life. Saturday will be quite the trip, won't it? You, your sister, and me. And maybe… we'll find just the right owl for you too."
Ron nodded, feeling a thrill of anticipation. "Yeah. And this time… I think I'll pick one that doesn't have trouble finding its way back home."
Ginny, still quietly fidgeting, tugged at his sleeve. "Will I see all the shops too?" she asked, a mix of curiosity and caution in her tone.
Ron smiled down at her. "Yes, Ginny. You can see the shops. Just stay close, okay?"
She nodded, content for the moment, eyes bright with quiet curiosity.
Ron looked down at his sketches again, thinking of textbooks, a new owl, the magical casual wear he envisioned, and the early stirrings of a small wizarding business. I need to learn the potions market, the magical fashion market… understand what people want. Then, everything else will follow.
For the first time, he felt the thrill of possibility stretching ahead, a subtle mixture of responsibility, creativity, and the faintest scent of enterprise.