Richard rolled his eyes and sighed heavily.
"It's so difficult with those who haven't studied history. Harry, World War II-have you heard of that?"
- Certainly.
The Germans fought against Europe and the USSR. The Americans and British supplied the Soviet Union with military equipment, canned meat, and other supplies under the Lend-Lease agreement. The Russians paid for these goods with gold, platinum, and precious stones.
- So, Richie, am I right in understanding that this ship was supposed to be transporting payment for the supply of military equipment?
- True. But apparently, someone had the bright idea to steal everything of value, and the ship was sunk as it approached the United States, simulating a German U-boat attack.
"That's it!" Potter couldn't stand it anymore. "Let's go back to the ship."
"I'm of the same opinion. But, Harry, what are we going to tell our men?"
Harry thought for a moment.
"Mmm..." he drawled. "Let's say we didn't find anything. There's no ship here. I don't want to embarrass myself."
- That's also an exit. To move, say "portus."
Richie disappeared. Harry panicked for a second, but repeated after his friend:
- Portus.
Young Potter felt a tug and a moment later realized he was on the deck of a boat. Richard stood opposite him, his expression one of indescribable pleasure, trying to remove his helmet.
A pale detective hobbled towards the boys, looking worried.
"Are you guys okay?" he asked.
"Everything is fine, Mr. Potter," Richard replied. "Tell Steve to come back. We'll just be relaxing on Cape Cod, enjoying the beaches and American culinary delights."
"Harry?" the man looked at his nephew with concern.
"Everything's great, Uncle Scott!" Harry replied with exaggerated cheerfulness. "There's nothing there. Just the ocean floor. We're actually fine. I can't wait to have that wonderful pizza again."
"You're not going to dive anymore?" Mr. Potter asked with hope and a hint of delight.
"No, this was enough for us," Harry turned his head from side to side.
"Exactly!" Richard agreed. "Diving is great, but land is better."
"That's great!" the detective rejoiced. "I hate the sea. I hate the sky! I'll tell Steve to use the diesel fuel and give it full speed. It's better on the shore..."
When the boys got out of their spacesuits, Harry asked:
- Richie, what should we do with the suit and the tentacles?
"I'll shrink mine and put them in my bag. And you do what you want with yours."
Richard opened the compartment on his forearm and pulled out his wand. Harry looked at young Rich in bewilderment.
"What do you mean, mine?" he asked.
- The spacesuit is yours, Harry. I give it to you.
"You're giving it to me?!" Potter's eyes widened in amazement. "But it's probably expensive."
"Harry, it's impolite to ask how much a gift costs. Just accept it and say thank you."
"Thanks!" Harry's face broke into a wide smile. He looked over his new spacesuit with delight. "Um... Richie, where am I supposed to put this anyway?"
- Shrink it and put it in your pocket until you buy yourself a bag with an Undetectable Extention.
"There's just one small problem," Harry hesitated. "I don't know a shrinking spell... not yet! But I'll definitely learn it at school."
- I'll help you. Take out your wand.
Harry pulled his wand from its holder. Richard used a silent charm to shrink the suit and its steel manipulators. Harry picked up the miniature artifact and carefully placed it in the side pocket of his jeans.
- Richie...
- What?
- Can Doctor Octavius' tentacles be used without a spacesuit?
"Easy. Just stick it to your clothes and use it. I just don't recommend sticking it to bare skin. They say it's incredibly painful. Don't use it on a jacket or T-shirt either-they'll rip. But a durable leather vest or jacket-that's fine."
"Amazing! I'll be like a superhero now," Potter said delightedly.
"More like a supervillain," Richard chuckled. "Remember who Doctor Octavius was."
"It all depends on the person, not the device they use!" Harry stated with firm confidence.
- Agreed. That's it, Harry, no more adventures this summer. Just the sea, the beach, delicious food, and a relaxing holiday!
"Oh, yeah," Harry said with anticipation. "I've had enough adventures. It was fun, though."
- Well spotted. It's funny... But now I can't look at the stones calmly. Such a disappointment...