Chapter 539: The Elder Wand and the Diadem
It was already evening when Kyle emerged from the Headmaster's Office.
This delay was mainly because Dumbledore had departed immediately after obtaining the Nirvana's ashes. According to Nicolas, the Headmaster needed to prepare additional materials for creating the Philosopher's Stone. Nicolas himself had to leave as well.
At his request, Kyle accompanied him to the highest point of the school—the Astronomy Tower. Nicolas walked slowly, and Kyle matched his pace, strolling leisurely alongside him.
Occasionally, they encountered one or two Gryffindor students in the corridors. The students eyed Kyle curiously, asking what he was doing and why he was moving so slowly, seemingly oblivious to Nicolas beside him.
"A little ruse," Nicolas explained with a slight smile. "I'd rather not see my name splashed across tomorrow's headlines. This spares me a great deal of trouble."
Kyle nodded in understanding. Nicolas Flamel's name carried an almost mythical weight, and even a fleeting appearance in public could set the entire magical community abuzz.
This was precisely why Nicolas rarely left his manor. At most, he would visit his old mansion in France or take discreet vacations to Muggle beaches far removed from wizarding society.
As they rounded the first corridor, Kyle hesitated before asking, "Nicolas, when you mentioned help earlier... were you referring to the Diadem?"
"I knew you would ask," Nicolas replied. "The soul fragment in the Diadem has been completely eradicated. As I said before, it's as good as new. I must admit, it's the most exquisitely alchemized object I've ever encountered. Even I find its allure difficult to resist..."
"I thought you might bring the Diadem with you this time," Kyle said suddenly. "After all, we agreed on six months."
"I intended to bring it," Nicolas replied without missing a beat. "But I overestimated my memory. Can you really expect someone over 600 years old to remember every detail? And Tata, you should have reminded me when we left."