Cursebreaking for Curse-Breakers

[Essy ze Ninja]

Cursebreaking for Curse-Breakers

by Anonymous



Sixth Edition Hardback
Published by Whizz Hard Books

This textbook should be in possession of every student attending Cursebreaking.
However, Hogwarts stores copies which can be found in the Specified Magic Section of the library.

*Information found within belongs to either J.K. Rowling, Wikipedia, or Google Latin Translator.

 

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Table of Contents

Chapters ______________ ➳

❶ Introduction
❷ The Dark Arts
❸ The Breaking of a Curse
❹ Spell Detection Charm - "Deprehensio"
❺ Transformation Detection Charm - "Deprehensio Mutatio"
❻ Curse Detection Charm - "Scelestus Timor Deprehensio"
❼ Curse-Breaking Charm - "Aveho Defixio"
❽ Curse Shield Charm - "Protego Defixium"
❾ Protego Breaking Hex - "Adflicto Affligo"
❿ Life Force Shield - "Defaeco Animus"
⓫ Deflection Spell - "Magis Clausus"
⓬ Sinking Hex - "Subsido"
⓭ Shield Detection Charm - "Contengo Deprehensio"
⓮ Darkness Counter Curse - "Occuro Acerbus Pestis"
⓯ Darkfire Counter Curse - "Aduro Occuro"
⓰ Poison Detection Spell - "Impedo Inficio Infeci Infectum"
⓱ Malevolence Detection Spell - "Infensus Deprehensio"
⓲ Accursed Healing Spell - "Occuro Scelestus Injuria"
⓳ Conclusion

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter One

Introduction

Curse-Breaking is a complex branch of magic and in order to pursue a career with Gringotts as a Curse-Breaker, one must have earned NEWT's in the following subjects: Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Transfigurations, Ancient Runes, Arithmancy, and Cursebreaking. However, those subjects alone may not be enough. To become a Curse-Breaker one must have a high discipline of will and balance in their magic, control of their own emotions, and the endurance to sustain time-consuming enchantments which are both physically and mentally draining. Once Curse-Breakers have completed their training with Gringotts, they are responsible for disabling and countering curses in ancient tombs or other historical sites in order to bring back gold to Gringotts. Not all Curse-Breakers are on the field, however, some remain at the bank and tend to banking records. It can be speculated that Curse-Breakers are almost the equivalent of Muggle archaeologists.

The next couple of chapters will breakdown and explain the hierarchy of Dark Magic, what exactly constitutes as a curse and the various methods used in Cursebreaking. Unfortunately for my young readers, the complexities of breaking down a curse will not truly be covered in this book as they are not taught until hopeful Curse-Breakers begin their official training at Gringotts under the supervision of more experienced wizards and knowledgeable goblins. Instead, this textbook will focus on the basic detection and defensive spells every Curse-Breaker should be acquainted with before embarking on the training. Detection spells will allow you to identify enchanted, transfigured, and cursed objects. Defensive spells are designed to counter, deflect, and absorb curses. Also featured in this book is a poison detection charm and a crucial healing spell specifically targeted to negate the harmful effects of a curse and lessen the scarring which is naturally caused by Dark Magic.

 

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Chapter Two

The Dark Arts

"The Dark Arts are many, varied, ever-changing, and eternal.
Fighting them is like fighting a many-headed monster, which, each
time a neck is severed, sprouts a head even fiercer and cleverer than before.
You are fighting that which is unfixed, mutating, indestructible."

— Severus Snape

Considered the worst kind of Dark Magic, curses are one of the seven known types of spells and by far the most cruel and malevolent by nature. A curse is defined by its negative effects; usually to induce harm, control, or death upon its victims. Dark spells can be classified into three groups: jinxes, hexes & curses. These groups form a hierarchy, with jinxes at the base, curses at the top and hexes in-between. The further one ascends up this hierarchy, the more wicked, the stronger, the longer-lasting and the less reversible the Dark spell's effects appear to be. The Unforgivable Curses are the strongest known Dark spells in existence, as their effects are very powerful and their use requires skill. Powerful dark spells also require malicious intent in order to be successful. To cast the Cruciatus Curse, for instance, one must truly desire to cause pain in and of itself. The Dark Arts can also be difficult to control; for example, Fiendfyre, a spell of cursed fire infused with dark magic is able to actively seek out living targets, often to the expense of the wizard who cast it.

Counter-curses are designed to remove the effects of a curse. It is often wondered why there are specific spells to counter other spells, when one could theoretically counter any spell with a broad-spectrum one such as Finite Incantatem, or Aveho Defixio. However, certain spells may have in built protections or are simply too robust for a general counter-spell to work against them and therefore require something specifically tailored to work around their specific protections to remedy this. This should be especially true for the conjuration Serpensortia, the snake produced by which was dispelled not with a simple Vanishing spell but a specific Untransfiguration and Counter-curse. The more complex a curse is the more complex its counter methods will be. But above all else, in order to break a curse one must have a solid foundation of will and balance, an ability to control and master ones emotions, and the endurance to outlast physically, mentally, and emotional draining throughout the curse-breaking process.

 

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Chapter Three

The Breaking of a Curse

"Strong" curses are long lasting and their effects are dangerous, in some cases they can grow stronger (or even deadly) as time passes. Such as curses found in Ancient Egyptian tombs or other magically significant catacombs or ancient ruins. On the other hand, curses which are considered "petty" have a tendency to linger though their effects are not as damaging and may dull with time. These curses can usually be countered with the general counter curse or with their specified counter. With these curses, they're usually cast for a petty reason, hence the moniker. For example, a curse cast out of jealousy or spite or vanity would eventually fade or weaken and would not be near as devastating as a curse cast of heart-breaking grief, intense hatred, agonizing pain, or as one's last dying breath. Cause and intent hold a substantial amount of sway in regards to how powerful a curse can be. Understanding the reason for why dark magic has a different set of standards than other branches of magic--wherein charms do eventually fade (though longer lasting when bewitched) and conjurations ultimately do not last--is still heavily disputed and researched in the Heart Chamber of the Department of Mysteries. As stated in the previous chapter, certain curses require uniquely tailored precautions and enchantments to work around their specific protections. Depending on the curse, if the general counter-spell or counter-curse proves unsuccessful, there are alternative methods which are taught in-depth during a Curse-Breaker's training with Gringotts. In this chapter, we will review the different techniques:

Cursed objects require the use of a time-consuming ritual involving a series of chanted spells which breaks down the vigor of the curse until it can be broken with a general counter-curse. Depending on the strength of the curse, these rituals can last anywhere from four to eight hours. A case has once been documented to last over three days (with breaks in between to eat and sleep.) This method is very physically draining.

Cursed life, or rather, a curse placed upon a living being, creature, or plant, require a much different approach. Due to the intricate nature of living beings, the previous method could prove harmful to the afflicted. Instead, the best approach is to create a unique counter-curse using extensive knowledge of Latin. Essentially, this method requires the high level of intelligence which spell-inventors possess.

When an area, building, or even a town, has been cursed, it will (but not always) require a combination of collaborative counter-spells, potions, and/or a proficiency of Ancient Runes. This method requires a combination of the above: endurance and intellect, and thus, has the highest risk for danger.

Finally, and most frustrating of all, there are curses which cannot be broken by any counter-curse, invented or otherwise, or by a potion. Varying levels of these curses have existed over the centuries and it has been hotly debated that to break these curses requires not the magic of spell casting but the magic of the human heart. In this theory, a curse may be broken through forgiveness, complete and utter remorse, or love. The tall tale story of "true love's kiss" may have a deeper meaning then originally believed. Because a deep pure love and ultimate sacrifice, for instance, can conjure an ancient, powerful, and long-lasting charm called the Sacrificial Protection; the details of which is also under intensive research with the Department of Mysteries but it is understood that when the person to make the sacrifice dies, the counter-charm is so powerful that the murderer can not touch the intended victim, as the protection lives on in their veins.

 

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Chapter Four

Spell Detection Charm
Deprehensio

___. D E P R E H E N S I O
______ "Deep-RE-HEN-see-OH"



The Deprehensio spell is an important staple in the art of Cursebreaking; this utilitarian spell can be used to detect the presence of an enchanted or bewitched item. (Not to be confused with a transfigured or cursed object.) Essentially created to maneuver Ancient Egyptian pyramids and catacombs, it is unknown who the original creator of this spell was but it has been speculated that this spell became the "building block", so to speak, for more advanced spells that had been created by later Curse-Beakers. It is essential for beginners to master the pronunciation of this spell as it will be featured more then once in the following chapters.

Based on the Latin origin, the etymology for Deprehensio means "to detect".

To cast the spell, recite the incantation and simply wave the wand over the intended target. Or in the case of searching a wide area or room, guide the wand in a wide sweeping gesture around the vicinity.

If cast successfully, enchanted objects and spell locations will pulsate with a bright silver essence. In fact, every detection spell associated with the Deprehensio spell is silent, does not cause a spark or jet from the wand, and instead, causes the afflicted object to emit the same silver glow.

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter Five

Transformation Detection Charm
Deprehensio Mutatio

___ D E P R E H E N S I O . M U T A T I O
______ Deep-RE-HEN-see-OH _ Mut-AH-she-OH




An essential tool for curse-breakers, Deprehensio Mutatio, is a spell which can detect the presence of transfigured objects. Throughout history, common switching and transformation spells have been used to deter Egyptian grave robbers from finding the secret tombs hidden within the pyramids of the pharaohs. Even in ancient catacombs, including Rome and Paris, this spell has been notoriously useful searching for hidden tombs to excavate gold, silver, or magical artifacts.

Of Latin origin, Deprehensio means "detection", while Mutatio roughly translates to "alteration" or "transformation."

Beginning at the waist, guide the wand in an upward circular spiral until the tip has ascended over the casters head.

If performed correctly, any and all transfigured objects in the vicinity will begin to glow an opalescent silver for a short duration.

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter Six

Curse Detection Charm
Scelestus Timor Deprehensio

. . . . S C E L E S T U S . T I M O R . D E P R E H E N S I O
. . . . . . . . . . . . "Sel-est-US_ TEE-more _ Deep-RE-HEN-see-OH"




Before a witch or wizard can begin the process of breaking a curse, it must first be found. As stated in previous chapters, curses can vary from objects to beings, protective shields and wards, or even entire buildings, castles, or dungeons. This chapter will begin with a basic curse-detection spell, Scelestus Timor Deprehensio, which, instead of emitting a jet or spark of magic from your wand, it will instead cause the cursed object to glow with a silver and opalescent brightness. However, as this is only a detection spell, another must be used to counter but that will be reviewed in a later chapter.

Scelestus Timor Deprehensio is of Latin etymology; Scelestus, meaning "wicked" or "accursed", Timor, which roughly means "fear", "dread", or "object causing fear," and finally, Deprehensio, of course means "detection."

To cast the spell properly, the tip of the wand should be held above the caster's head and descend with a downward spiral ending just below the waist.

If performed correctly, any cursed object in the vicinity will glow brightly. Exercise with caution and be careful not to trigger the effects of the curse during the process of analyzing and countering.

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter Seven

Curse-Breaking Charm
Aveho Defixio

___ A V E H O . D E F I X I O
______ "AH-vee-ho _ DEE-fix-EE-oh"



Similar to other branches of magic which have a universal counter-spell; Cursebreaking is no different. Aveho Defixio, is a general counter-curse which can reverse the effects of a wide variety of curses and hexes much like how finite can cancel the effects of various charms and jinxes. There are, of course, certain stipulations when it comes to casting and breaking a curse. Any object can be cursed, but not every curse will effect every object. Emotion is key. A substantial amount of power, will, and determination is required, meaning not every witch or wizard can truly be capable of becoming a Curse-Breaker. During the process of breaking a curse a possibility arises where the caster may feel, or for lack of a better word, become possessed, by the driving emotions used in the creation of the curse. Because of this, it is extremely vital that a Curse-Breaker has maximum control of their own emotions to not allow the anguish, or grief, or fear, or rage, break their focus. Extreme discipline is required.

Aveho, meaning "to remove". While Defixio means "curse". Both words are of Latin origin.

To cast the spell, point the wand at the target and recite the spell.

The spell removes only one curse at a time, and there is no color or sound emitting from either wand or the object. Critical thinking, creativity, and caution should be exercised to ensure the spell had been cast successfully. Like first tossing a pebble through a cursed barrier instead of walking through it, for example. With experience, trained Curse-Breakers will be able to detect the change in the aura and atmosphere of the magical object (or the lack of,) alerting them if the curse had been properly broken or not.

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter Eight

Curse Shield Charm
Protego Defixium

__P R O T E G O . D E F I X I U M
_____ Pro-TAY-goh Dee-fix-EE-um




Protego Defixium, otherwise known as the Curse-Shield Charm, is a defensive charm which has been recently popularized by wizarding archaeologists. The spell itself acts as a shield against a wide range of spells, including charms, jinxes, hexes, and curses, and requires little effort to be cast. When cast successfully before a curse, the charm will deflect the curse causing the magic of both spells to disperse. It's origins are disputable, though many historians agree that the creation of the spell dates back as far as Ancient Egypt. Depictions of the spell has been inferred from ancient hieroglyphics, and though the names and incantations have changed over time, the basic effects have not.

Protego Defixium is of Latin etymology, Protego, meaning "protection", and Defixium, which means "curse."

Grip the wand firmly and recite the incantation, then maneuver the wand in a downward spiral.

If the spell has been cast successfully, a pale blue shield will momentarily defend the caster by deflecting oncoming spells. The few exceptions, however, are the three unforgivable curses. The strength of the caster will determine the length and durability of the shield in effect, it's usual time span is only several moments long (just enough time to react and counter) but notable records have shown the defensive charm can last upwards of an hour.

 

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Chapter Nine

Protego Breaking Hex
Adflicto Affligo

___ A D F L I C T O. A F F L I G O
________ "Ad-FLIC-tow . AUGH-ligo"




Curses and Hexes aren't always the only spells used to safeguard a burial tomb, more often than not, Curse-Breakers will be faced against one of the several variations of the Protego Charm. In these instances, the use of the Protego Breaking Hex comes into play. Adflicto Affligo can be used to break the shield conjured by Protego. Recently, the spell has become popular with professional duelists and ranks high among the favored spells used in the Dunstable Dueling Championship.

Adflicto Affligo, in Latin, roughly translates to "weaken," and "damage, break."

Wand movements must be decisive and firm. Recite the incantation and guide the wand in a descending slash followed up by a quick charge forward.

To be successful, the caster must be within fifteen meters to break the Protego Charm, though with practice and discipline the distance can be extended. Thus far, the furthest record for a successful Protego Breaking Hex has been twenty-nine meters.

 

[Essy ze Ninja]

Chapter Ten

Life Force Shield
Defaeco Animus

___ D E F A E C O . A N I M U S
_____ "Day-FAH-chee-OH . Ani-mus"



A counter against curses, this spell creates a spectral of life spirit around the caster to absorb most, if not all, of the damage of a jinx, hex, and some curses. The shield encompasses the caster in a full three-hundred-sixty-degree circle. With practice and experience, the spell can last several hours but will consistently weaken if too much magical damage is taken. For beginners, the Life Force Shield usually has a lasting span of twenty minutes. However, this spell only works against magical attacks, meaning Stupefy would be absorbed and blocked, but Oppugno, which causes other objects to attack rather than magic itself. would still cause damage. The Life Force Shield does not guard against the Unforgiveable Curses or against vicious Dark Magic.

Of Latin origin, Defaeco means to "purify, purge." Animus roughly translates to "vivacity", "will", "spirit", and "soul".

Guiding the wand with a steady hand, begin with one long yet quick slash of the wand starting at your left hip and slashing diagonally upward to your shoulder; as you might do if you were swinging a sword.

When cast successfully, yellow sparks of magic emit from the wand and circle around the caster then disappears. A sudden warmth of protection envelops the caster. But, once the shield wears off, a sharp cold freeze will signal the caster that the effects have faded.

 

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Chapter Eleven

Deflection Spell
Magis Clausus

___ M A G I S . C L A U S U S
_______ "Mah-JIS . Clow-sus"



Created in the late nineteenth century by the inventive Sainsbury brothers', a pair of Curse-Breakers who had discovered the secret to an otherwise impenetrable catacomb and invented the Deflection Spell. When timed perfectly, this spell creates a shield of magic with deflects curses, hexes, and jinxes and can reflect them back to the opponent with twice as much damage. The catacomb in which it was founded had been defended by a legion of cursed statues; each one was bewitched to send an assault of spells ranging from blasting to impaling curses. No manner of spells seemed to break the curse on the statues if one of the Curse-Breakers were lucky enough to even try. After months of failed attempts, the two brothers' attempted to redirect the statues spells backwards which consequently obliterated the sculptures. Discovered within was one of the largest caches of gold that had ever been found and transported to Gringotts.

Magis, in Latin, means "more" and "to a greater extent". Claudo, a deviation of Clausus, is also of Latin origin and means "to confine", "blockade", and "besiege".

Prepare with your wand at the ready, recite the incantation then begin with a jab forward toward the oncoming spell to deflect it. No light is caused from the spell itself, however the clash from when a spell has bounced away may cause sparks or flares of color.

In order to redirect the oncoming spell back to your opponent, be sure to jab the end of your wand in the direction of your opponent. Precise aim requires vigorous practice and keen precision; sharp and rigid motions should be exercised when redirecting spells. As always, there are exceptions. Curses so deeply ingrained in the Dark Arts, such as the Unforgivable Curses. Unfortunately, it's hard to determine how many more curses are impervious to the Deflection Spell, due to the high risks of fatality.