Facing each other on the dueling platform once more, Lockhart bowed, his heart brimming with confidence.
He admitted that he had been a little careless before, and the other side's strange little spells had some bite to them.
But now that he was taking this seriously, could a student tutored by a Potions Class professor really be stronger than him?
"Expelli—"
A red flash streaked across the center of the dueling platform, slamming Lockhart into the wall behind him.
Lockhart's eyes bulged, his lips trembling. He remained plastered against the wall for at least three seconds before slowly sliding down to the floor. With a splat, he pitched forward into a full prostration.
Lockhart's wand spun through the air and flew into Adam's hand. Only then did Adam seem to remember something and add:
"Expelliarmus."
The students: "..."
"Awesome! That was so awesome!"
Bernard's eyes shone as he became the first to applaud.
Then Adam's other roommates came to their senses and started clapping, followed by the Hufflepuffs, then the students from the other houses...
Clap—clap—clap—
After three crisp, brief claps, Professor Snape walked to the center of the dueling platform.
"An excellent duel... Now, regrettably, your Professor Lockhart has once again suffered a serious injury..."
He placed particular emphasis on "again," casting a sidelong glance at Lockhart as though confirming that he would not suddenly climb back up this time.
After three seconds, Professor Snape calmly withdrew his gaze.
"As for the dueling club..."
As he said this, Professor Snape's eyes happened to sweep over Harry. He paused briefly before smoothly continuing.
"I will first take your Professor Lockhart to the Hospital Wing. When I return, I will divide you into pairs for practice duels."
The students immediately grew excited. Though Professor Lockhart had fought terribly just now, Adam