For a vertical launch, especially with four layers of obstacles overhead, the optimal Magical Runes combination enhanced stability and kept the shell from deviating from its firing trajectory as much as possible.
Vincent had prepared in advance, but the specially made 120mm Adamantium armor-piercing shell was exorbitantly expensive. Firing this one would cost him 100,000 Gold Galleons.
Without the slightest hesitation, he swiftly loaded the shell and secured the heavy artillery with its stabilizing legs.
He lay beside the cannon, gripping the handles with both hands as he held his breath and adjusted the firing angle.
The instant he pulled the trigger, the alchemically purified gunpowder at the base of the barrel ignited. Expanding gases drove the armor-piercing shell spinning through countless rifling grooves engraved with Magical Runes.
Next door, Percy from the Department of International Magical Cooperation heard an earth-shaking boom like a thunderclap, then stared wide-eyed as the cracked ceiling came crashing down.
"Shield Charm!" He reacted quickly, drawing his wand and raising a magical barrier above his head.
Meanwhile, after pulling the trigger, Vincent switched Pandora into its eighth form: a shield engraved with ornate Suanni patterns. Any stone that fell upon it, regardless of size, was knocked away.
Seeing that the International Magical Trade Standards Association office was about to collapse, Vincent put on his Flying Boots, raised his shield, and shot toward the massive hole blasted open by the armor-piercing shell.
Within a few breaths, he passed through the recently repaired ceiling of the second underground level and reached the first underground level.
The angle had still been slightly off. He was now in the corridor leading to the Minister's office.
"It's Wayne!" Several staff members who had entered the Ministry of Magic through a secret passage immediately raised their wands.
Vincent swung his shield.