Chapter 112: Nicolas's Teachings
In the end, Quirrell left Hogwarts to carry out his plan. Although Dumbledore was uncertain of the details, he understood that the cost of success might be Quirrell's own life.
After Fudge and the pure-blood wizards remained at Hogwarts for an entire day, they came to understand that Phineas would not yield to their pressure, and so they left, one after another.
Setting aside the events at Hogwarts, during the short two days Phineas spent with Nicholas Flamel and Perenell flamel, he had already learned a great deal.
"Phineas, here's your cane," Nicolas said, handing him the staff that held his wand. The originally gold-plated cane now looked different.
Mysterious patterns shimmered on its surface, etched in a metallic silver that added an air of noble elegance to the luxurious staff.
"Though your cane was crafted by Ollivander, it was nothing special in terms of enchantment. At most, it's known for its durability," Nicolas remarked with a smile.
Phineas examined the cane and asked, "Senior Nicolas, did you make some changes to it? I can feel magical fluctuations coming from the patterns."
Nicolas looked at him in surprise. "I hadn't realized you were so sensitive to magical energy. Even Dumbledore couldn't detect that at your age."
Phineas scratched his head, smiling. "It's probably nothing. I underwent a blood sublimation ceremony in my family—its effects were pretty good."
Nicolas nodded, already aware that Phineas wasn't referring to an ordinary ritual. It had to have been an advanced ceremony—one that pushed his magical bloodline closer to its ancient roots.
"Well, since you noticed, I'll explain. The material of your cane was already impressive. It only looked gold-plated, but in reality, it wasn't. I don't know what that Ollivander boy was thinking—he used an alloy mixed with goblin-forged metal. While not rare, it's a costly and durable material."
Phineas looked at the cane in surprise, having never paid much attention to its materials. For him, it was just a gentleman's cane that discreetly housed his wand.
"Because the material was suitable, I used mithril to inscribe some magical runes on it," Nicolas continued. He pulled several books off a nearby shelf and handed them to Phineas.
"In addition to material transformation, the foundation of alchemy lies in the use of magical runes—not just ancient ones, but modern ones as well. I doubt Hogwarts teaches modern magical script. Ravenclaw's legacy focuses more on the ancient. These books include common modern runes and some of my own research on ancient scripts. Study them when you can."
"These runes are etched into the interior of the cane. When an object carries runes that absorb ambient magic or can be imbued with magic through a rune array, it qualifies as an alchemical item. Think of it as a parallel system to the transmutation you've studied. Rune inscription is the most common practice, while material transformation is the more advanced path. I often use both."
"I carved an Iron Armor Charm into your cane. It actively draws magical energy from the air. Just strike the cane hard against the ground to activate it. It's basic protection, capable of resisting minor dark spells. I also added runes to increase the vitality of your magical energy. Once triggered, your magic will become more responsive for a short time, improving your spellcasting."
"Since the cane is already a complete item, I didn't fully remake it. Most of the runes are on the surface, hidden beneath the decorative patterns. Those patterns also act as channels to focus and amplify your magic. The entire design is traced in mithril, which conducts magic exceptionally well."
Phineas examined the cane, trying to spot the hidden runes, but couldn't detect them—proof of Nicolas's five centuries of experience in alchemy. He struck the cane against the floor. A shimmering, transparent shield appeared beside him. He channeled more magic into the cane, and the shield immediately strengthened.
Nicolas smiled. "All the enchantments are on the staff. Even if you draw your wand from the tip for combat, the enhancements will still work."
Phineas dispelled the shield, his face alight with excitement. "Thank you, Senior Nicolas. I really like the cane's new abilities."
Nicolas nodded, then asked, "You're heading back to Hogwarts soon?"
Phineas nodded. "I've waited here three days for those people—they probably won't stick around much longer. The House of Elders will make their move soon, so it's best not to hide. Besides, I'm still a student. I have to return to school."
Nicolas chuckled. "A student? Honestly, if you weren't just twelve, I'd think some master wizard had disguised himself to prank me. Your spellcasting's already beyond many adult wizards."
Phineas shrugged, saying nothing.
Nicolas waved a hand dismissively. "Alright, I won't pry. But when your alchemy improves, make a wand for yourself. A wand suits a wizard best when made by their own hand. Besides, Ollivander keeps records of every wand he sells. That's not the safest thing."
Phineas blinked in surprise. "Wand records? Isn't it just the wood type, core, and size? What's dangerous about that?"
Nicolas smiled. "The wand's wood and length say a lot about your personality. The core reflects your magical preferences, talent, and potential. If someone has your wand's specs, they can build a frighteningly accurate profile—and exploit it."