Exploring Density Manipulation: Densify and Soften

After two weeks, Felix found himself in Professor McGonagall's office once again. He had been regularly visiting her to train in transfiguration and push his magical abilities to their limits. During this time, he discovered that he could only successfully transfigure objects smaller than a chair, as larger objects proved too challenging. However, Felix realized that he could perform transfiguration without incantations by visualizing the process in his mind, a skill he had honed through his Occlumency training. Despite this newfound ability, he still used incantations to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Professor McGonagall greeted Felix with curiosity, as she had noticed his exceptional talent in transfiguration. She wondered what he had in store for their session, suspecting that his ambition could potentially lead him down a dangerous path.

"Today, Professor, I will attempt the Switching spell," Felix announced.

McGonagall nodded, assuring him that she would be there to assist if needed. Felix focused his wand on an apple, then a small iron statuette, and cast the spell.

"Mutaremutis."

To his satisfaction, the apple transformed, becoming heavy and cold like iron. While Felix was pleased with his success, this was not the primary reason for his visit that day.

"Great job, Mr. Scarletwound," praised McGonagall, acknowledging his mastery of the Switching spell. However, she anticipated that there was something else Felix wished to discuss.

"Professor, I came here today to try something I've been contemplating for the past few days. I want to explore changing the physical properties of an object without the need for switching," Felix revealed.

McGonagall expressed concern, cautioning him about the dangers of altering the internal features of objects without changing their external appearance, as ancient wizards had devised the Switching spell precisely to simplify such transformations. Nevertheless, Felix persisted, trusting that McGonagall would protect him if anything went awry. His aim was to create a more potent transfiguration spell by manipulating an object's density, allowing him to make it softer or harder.

Observing Felix's determination, McGonagall hesitated before giving her reluctant approval.

"Very well, Felix, but please exercise caution," she warned.

Grateful for her agreement, Felix restored the apple to its original density and pointed his wand at it, imagining it becoming harder.

"Densus Increscere."

As there was no explosion, Felix picked up the apple, feeling its weight change, and tested it by striking it against the table.

"Clang."

The sharp metallic sound confirmed the success of his new spell. He presented the apple to McGonagall, who looked at him in disbelief.

"Here, Professor, take a look."

"What is this spell, Mr. Scarletwound?" inquired McGonagall as she examined the apple.

"I call it Densify. This spell increases the density and hardness of the target object, making it tougher and more resilient. It can be used to reinforce structures, strengthen defensive barriers, or enhance an object's durability," Felix explained with pride. He had been experimenting with such spells ever since he discovered his current limitations.

"Marvelous, Mr. Scarletwound. This is the second spell you've created in your first year," praised McGonagall, impressed by Felix's accomplishments in such a short time.

"No, Professor, the Needle-to-Match spell wasn't my first. It was merely an experiment," Felix hurriedly corrected, not wanting such a small trick to be remembered as his first spell. He then continued, "In fact, I've created another spell along with Densify. It can be considered a counter spell called Soften, which makes the target object softer."

"But there's already a charm called the Softening Charm that accomplishes that," McGonagall remarked, momentarily reversing their roles as teacher and student.

"I'm aware of the Softening Charm, Professor. However, my spell reduces the density of the target object, making it softer and more malleable. It can be used to reshape or mold objects, increase pliability for crafting, or reduce surface hardness for comfort or safety purposes. Allow me to demonstrate," Felix explained before pointing his wand at the apple and casting the spell.

"Mollesco."

"Try picking it up now," Felix urged, feeling a little nervous as it was his first time attempting the spell practically, although he knew it worked in theory.

McGonagall attempted to hold the apple, her excitement reminiscent of a new student witnessing the birth of a new magical phenomenon. When she applied slight pressure, the apple deformed like clay.

"It worked!" they both exclaimed simultaneously.

After a brief moment of silence filled with a mix of emotions, McGonagall, with a few red spots on her face due to her excitement overriding her usual composure, spoke up.

"Well done, Mr. Scarletwound. You never cease to surprise me. I believe the next seven years will be the most exciting I've experienced in this school."

"Thank you, Professor. It's all thanks to your guidance," Felix replied, appreciating McGonagall's influence on his progress.

"But what do you plan to do with these two spells?" McGonagall inquired.

"I've been considering writing a book about transfiguration for the next seven years, documenting everything I learn," Felix explained his intended course of action.

"That's an excellent idea, Mr. Scarletwound. Books are a great way to earn a living in the wizarding world. However, you must be cautious about the spells you include in a book meant for sale. Avoid including spells with strong destructive power or those that could be exploited by dark wizards, as it could cause you a lot of trouble," McGonagall cautioned.

"Thank you for the advice, Professor. I will seek your guidance whenever I create a new spell," Felix assured, as if spell creation were the easiest thing for him.

Just as they were about to continue their discussion, a voice interrupted from outside the door.

"Knock, knock. Professor, can I come in?" a girl's voice called out.

"Lily, come in," McGonagall responded, allowing the girl to enter. Without even glancing at the room, she immediately began questioning the professor.

"Apologies for interrupting, Professor, but I have a few questions about—Oh, hey, Felix. I didn't know you were here," she said, momentarily surprised by his presence.

"Thank you for today. I shall take my leave now," Felix said, heading toward the door, deliberately ignoring the girl. He had an inexplicable sense that something unpleasant would happen if he remained in the company of this girl or any Gryffindor student.

"You're always welcome, Mr. Scarletwound," McGonagall replied, turning her attention back to Lily. "Come in, Lily. What questions do you have?"