"The principle of the Echo Spell is similar to that of sonar used by bats; by emitting high-frequency sound waves, it creates a visual map as they refract and bounce back. It possesses strong penetrative power and transmits images with remarkable accuracy. Even if there are obstacles, the waves can bypass them, making the spell highly effective for surveying, tracking, and reconnaissance. For example, if you need to scout the terrain at the bottom of a river or a dark lake, this is the spell you would use."
Below the stage, the members listened to Alan explain using strange, technical terms. They couldn't quite grasp every concept, but they could tell it was impressive. Unwilling to seem uncultured by asking for clarification, they simply nodded along, pretending to follow his every word.
Alan paused, then continued, "Of course, this spell encountered many hurdles during its development. The charm consists of two parts: emitting and receiving. Currently, the emission can be cast directly with a wand, but the receiving phase is more complex, requiring an alchemical tool to translate the data."
He reached into his spatial pouch and pulled out a large mirror, one meter in diameter. He had constructed it hastily some time ago; the materials were mediocre, meaning the enchantment would likely only last a year, but it was perfect for a demonstration.
With a flick of his magic, Alan made the mirror float in the air, facing the audience. He then waved his wand and cast the Echo Charm.
As the spell took hold, a second scene manifested on the mirror's surface. It was the interior of the club room, but rendered entirely in stark black and white lines. Alan adjusted the flow of magic, and the perspective in the mirror began to shift—moving up, down, and rotating. By adjusting his focus, he could observe every hidden corner of the room through the glass.
Alan then opened a window and directed the spell outside. Soon, the grounds of Hogwarts appeared in the mirror, looking like a wireframe blueprint. It was as if a drone were filming close to the walls and the grass. Though the image quality was lower than a standard photograph, the outlines of trees, stone pillars, and castle walls were unmistakable.
Everyone in the room, including Professor Flitwick, crowded around the mirror to study the results.
"Truly astonishing, Alan. This new spell is even more sophisticated than I imagined. You must keep at it and try to formalize the incantation soon; otherwise, few wizards will have the alchemical skill to cast it," Professor Flitwick said, not stinting on his praise.
Aliana, who was watching with wide eyes, was privately stunned. Such a magical spell was actually real, and the effect was far better than she had envisioned. She found herself stealing another glance at the boy.
Alan, however, maintained his usual calm expression, offering a humble nod to the professor. The surrounding crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause, truly won over by his talent.
The academic discussion lasted for nearly an hour as Alan patiently answered their questions. He thrived in the atmosphere of the Charms Club; there was no house infighting here, only a shared love for knowledge and rigorous research. Eventually, Professor Flitwick had to call a halt to the meeting. Curfew was approaching, and it wouldn't do for the club members to be caught out late.
As they said their farewells, Aliana moved to strike up a conversation with Alan, but by the time she turned her head, he had already vanished. She hadn't managed to say a single word to her "acquaintance" all night.
"He really is a rude fellow," Aliana muttered, feeling like an outsider. She pouted and turned to leave.
---
Meanwhile, Alan had returned to the Slytherin dormitory. He was just about to start his evening reading when his door was rudely hammered upon.
*Bang! Bang! Bang!* "Open up! Move it!"
Alan looked at the door. *Are they starting trouble this early, or are they just in a hurry to meet their end?* He deliberated for a moment, straightened his clothes, and pointed his wand at the handle. The lock clicked open.
*Bang!*
Wilkes kicked the door open and strode arrogantly into the room. He scanned the area and saw Alan sitting leisurely at his desk, flipping through a book without even looking up. A surge of irritation rose in Wilkes's chest.
"Why were you so slow? This is the Purity Committee's first official inspection. I know you stinking Muggles aren't honest. Be sensible and hand over every Muggle item in this room, or else..."
"Or else you'll fight me?" Alan interrupted, finally looking up with a gaze of pure disdain.
Wilkes paled at the interruption. The provocative words brought back the stinging memories of the previous school year. He was furious, but he didn't dare launch an attack. A fight in the common room would alert Snape, and Wilkes knew, deep down, he couldn't beat Alan in a fair duel.
Wilkes masked his fear with a stern expression. "This is official business for the Slytherin Purity Committee. Do not obstruct us. Cooperate, and we won't have to get rough. Stand up and let us search you. If we find contraband on your person, you'll be the first one we make an example of."
"Search me? Interesting. And if I refuse? Your so-called committee has no authority over me," Alan said. He had no intention of letting them touch him; too many items in his pouch were sensitive.
"Hmph, you ignore the rules of the house and still have the nerve to talk back," Travers said, stepping forward from behind Wilkes. "The Purity Committee is the collective choice of Slytherin. It isn't something you get to dictate."
"Exactly," Wilkes added, nodding. "Since you are in Slytherin, you must abide by our rules."
Alan listened to them, his eyes narrowing into a thin, dangerous smile. He stood up and began walking slowly toward them. Both Wilkes and Travers instinctively took two steps back, their hearts hammering. But then, remembering they were supposed to be the ones in power, they puffed out their chests and stood their ground.