For the first half hour or so it seemed like Charlotte's hunch about the Magic Shop's viability as a business was correct. There was not so much as a curious glance in the window from a passer by, let alone a customer. Then, just as dhe debated going against Gareth's instructions and examining his wares out of pure boredom, the doot burst open.
This visitor in some ways resembled Gareth, at least in the way he dressed and styled his hair. But he was younger and taller with jet black hair - and he was certainly much angrier. After scanning the room to find the culprit for his displeasure without success he made an exagerated huffing sound and approached Charlotte.
"Can I help you sir?" She smiled, correctly guessing this may be an unpleasant exchange for her but severely underestimating the extent of what was about to happen.
"I certainly hope so" the man bristled "I would very much like and indeed expect a full refund now!"
He threw a staff, similar to some of the ones hanging up in the shop, down on counter. Charlotte quickly realised she had no idea of Gareth's returns policy. She decided that rather than just give his money away she should ask some questions first.
"I'm sorry to hear that sir. What seems to be the problem?"
"That...thing...has no magical powers. Whatsoever" he practically spat the words out in disgust as he gestured at the wand.
Unsure if she was a victim of a prank, Charlotte let out a nervous giggle.
"What?!" The customers outrage was almost palpable now and directed squarely at Charlotte "You think this is funny?"
"No, of course not sit, it's just that....: Charlotte hesiated, not sure how to respond politely.
"What? Spit it out you insolent child!" The man ordered.
Child? Something about that word really rubbed Charlotte up the wromg way. Well, screw this jerk! if he was going to be abrasive she would be to.
"Of course it doesn't have any magical powers" she responded bluntly.
"So you admit it! This store is a sham!" The man slapped the counter to give emphasis to his accusation.
"No, it's just that..." Charlotte wasn't going to be intimidated by this weirdo so she just came out and said it "Obviously there is no such thing as magic. I'm sure most people who buy our products realise that. This is for people who like to pretend"
"No such thing as magic!" the man repeated, laughing in disbelief "people who like to pretend!"
He then pulled another staff from his cloak and aimed it squarely at the hapless shop assistant.
"Well, I can see I won't be getting my money back so I will at least have some fun. I can assure you that, unlike your shoddy products this wand is full of magical power and it's effects are very real. Allow me to demonstrate"