The Mermaids' Song

The magical energy field of the Preservation Charm was complete. Just as Wizet had said, the students felt the surroundings change.

They could distinctly feel the heavy moisture in the air, as though they were truly standing in a body of water.

Fortunately, at Wizet's reminder, the students had cast the Water-Fire Immunity Charm, preventing the dense moisture from soaking into their robes.

The carpet on the floor had no protection from the Water-Fire Immunity Charm, and it visibly began to grow damp.

With even a light stomp of their feet, they could see water splashing up from within the carpet.

Wizet returned his wand to his pocket and placed his hands on either side of the Golden Egg's seam. "Next, I'm going to open it."

The students all nodded to show they were ready. Some, still affected by the earlier screams, began grimacing the moment they saw Wizet take his position, instinctively wanting to cover their ears.

Wizet pried open the Golden Egg. It was still empty inside, yet it produced an entirely different sound.

It was a pleasant chorus, its melody the same as Luna's earlier hum.

"Seek us where our voices sound, for above the ground we cannot sing. In the very beginning, you will lose the treasure you need to live..."

"You will find yourself in perilous darkness... We will hide your treasure within something pure. Seek and reclaim the treasure we have taken from you."

"You have one hour to complete the 'great work' as best you can—either return laden with the 'great work,' or face failure and come back empty-handed."

Wizet closed the Golden Egg and waved his wand to dispel the magical energy field.

"Scourgify!" He pointed his wand at the surrounding carpets, cleaning them up as well.

As the Golden Egg's