It's a clear day, and Dora is accompanying her uncle on an errand to Diagon Alley. Truth be told, she's been wanting to for some time, but her grandmother has made it difficult. "Let Bradley assist his father on these things." She's said, "It's him who will one day take over the business. You just finish reading those etiquette books I gave you." Dora sighs. It's been a long few weeks of summer, her grandmother preparing her to assist her in hosting the Summer Ball. Dora knows it's a big deal, but she's tired of the endless remarks on her posture, her manners, her words... When she used to help Uncle Harris he wouldn't care if she didn't say anything at all. Now only Bradley gets to help him, and he doesn't even want to.

That's actually how Dora made it out here to begin with. Bradley had plans with a friend and Uncle Harris still needed an extra set of hands today. Reluctantly, Grandmother agreed to let Dora come along, and Dora took the opportunity to make a small list.

"Uncle Harris?" Dora nervously asks as they step into the Apothecary. "Would it be okay if I purchase some things for myself? I- I want to practice brewing outside of class. I brought my own allowance, too." She waits as her uncle looks at her, expressionless as ever. She's never sure what's running through his mind.

"Alright." He agrees, to Dora's relief, "As long as you can still help me carry a few things."

"Of course." She nods, then asks, "How come you never bring a house elf to help you, Uncle?"

Again, he pauses, and Dora wonders if she said something wrong. But he doesn't scold her, only days, "I don't much need to if you're helping me." Dora accepts this, even though she continues to wonder. Wouldn't it be much easier? Grandmother would surely let him borrow one? Then again, Dora doesn't like asking the house elves for much either. It reminds her of..

Dora shoves the thought aside and takes out her list. She'll get her ingredients quickly so her uncle doesn't have to wait on her. Now it's just a matter of finding them...