Chapter 70: Box and Crown
"Tell me about your understanding of the Traceless Extension Spell," Professor Murray continued with a smile.
"Yes," Wade replied seriously. "The Traceless Extension Spell is a spatial charm capable of both expanding and folding space simultaneously. It can be applied to various materials—metal, soil, cloth, wood—within a confined, closed space. Theoretically, it extends finite space infinitely, but practical applications are influenced by factors such as material properties, the wizard's magical proficiency, and understanding of the spell."
Professor Murray nodded approvingly. Wade's explanation combined textbook knowledge with insights, marking it as an exceptional analysis deserving commendation.
"In summary," Wade added, "due to its potential for misuse, the Ministry of Magic strictly regulates the Traceless Extension Charm. It prohibits private use and limits its application to approved individual item production by respective Ministries of Magic worldwide. Possession of Traceless Extension Charm items without Ministry approval is prohibited."
Professor Murray chuckled. "Yes, we're discussing how to bend Ministry laws. However, Wade, a true alchemist without a Traceless Extension Charm-enhanced suitcase cannot be considered complete. Yet, to avoid Ministry scrutiny, we must also learn discreet methods."
He summoned a book from the shelf, handing it to Wade.
"This book details a clever concealment technique, allowing your box to appear ordinary when needed, transforming when necessary. It's quite complex, Wade. Whether for Traceless Extension Charm boxes or concealment spells, mastery is challenging. I look forward to your progress. Also, feel free to ask any questions."
Wade took out a parchment with a list of twenty or thirty detailed queries.
"Very studious," Professor Murray remarked.
After an extensive Q&A session that exceeded scheduled tutoring time, Wade still had one more matter to discuss.
"Professor," Wade began, "I've crafted a box recently and would appreciate your feedback on any flaws."
From his schoolbag, Wade retrieved a long oak box that outwardly appeared ordinary, devoid of obvious magical traces.
Professor Murray cast detection spells, examining it closely.
"Can it block magical item scents? Prevent theft, unauthorized opening, curse-breaking, and malevolent enchantments?" he queried, surprised. "Are you collecting potent Dark artifacts?"
Wade chuckled sheepishly. "I intend to borrow books from the Restricted Section, where some texts inherently possess Dark magic. Proximity alone may influence surroundings—"
Professor Murray laughed heartily. "Oh, Wade, you're overly cautious. Madam Pince processes Restricted Section books to mitigate student risks—"
Flushed with embarrassment, Wade queried, "Did I prepare this box needlessly?"
"Your box is flawless. It completely isolates most Dark magic items from external influence. Use it to safely store hazardous books, ensuring restful nights," Professor Murray reassured him.
Slightly reassured, Wade asked, "What Dark artifacts can't be entirely isolated?"
"It depends on their size," Professor Murray explained. "If sealed thoroughly within your box, no harmful magic will leak."
...
Late at night, Wade paced the eighth floor's corridors.
"I need a secure hiding place—secure hiding place—secure hiding place—"
The familiar door materialized. Without hesitation, Wade entered, illuminating the room with his wand.
In a room resembling a labyrinth of furniture, eerie shadows danced. Wade meticulously searched until he found his target near a bubbling cabinet.
Among discarded odds and ends lay an old, tarnished crown. Gray gems gleamed like uncut stones.
Embossed upon it: **Wit beyond measure is a man's greatest treasure**.
Apart from this inscription, the crown blended seamlessly into its dingy surroundings. Wade vaguely recalled a more ornate appearance from over a decade ago but trusted his eyes now.
Placing the crown into his oak box, Wade sealed it tightly with protective spells, finally easing his tension.
With this crown secured, Wade couldn't freely investigate the Room of Requirement as planned, fearing its influence. Further, frequent visits risked exposing the Horcruxes, as Ginny Weasley had encountered, resulting in chaos. Securing the Horcruxes preemptively shielded against future complications, leaving Wade exhilarated by the room's untapped potential.
Departing, Wade inadvertently pressed his palm to his schoolbag when a voice intoned, "Best not to remove things from the Room of Requirement, child."
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