The Self-Destruction

"Something's wrong!" A young wizard rushed in through the doorway, shouting to everyone, "Someone else has been attacked, in the corridor beside the Central Courtyard!"

"Was someone else hurt?" Hermione quickly asked.

"Mm!" The young wizard was sweating profusely with worry. "Another student's been petrified. Everyone, hurry and help!"

"Perfect!" Anduin said, pushing Lockhart forward. "The accident just happened, so the monster from the Chamber of Secrets might still be nearby. This is the perfect chance for Professor Lockhart to go deal with it!"

"Good idea!" Ron chimed in. "Professor Lockhart, we'll leave that monster to you. It's only a Magical Creature with a danger rating of XXXXX Level. Surely you'll be able to eliminate this threat!"

"What? A XXXXX Level monster?"

Lockhart stiffened in fright and instinctively tried to back away, but Anduin kept urging him on, while the young wizards around them stared at him eagerly.

Lockhart couldn't tell whether their gazes were mocking or expectant, but as someone who loved the limelight and cared about his reputation, he couldn't find a good reason to refuse.

But if he really had to face that dangerous monster, wouldn't that be like sending him to his death?

"Uh... no problem."

Lockhart still couldn't shake his habit of putting on a brave front, but he soon had a bright idea and pointed to his clothes.

"However, please allow me to change first. Look, my clothes got soaked just now, and that would make it difficult for me to cast powerful spells."

"So please go on ahead to the scene. I'll get ready and join you."

With that, Lockhart turned to make his escape, but quickly discovered that Anduin had a firm grip on his shoulder.

"It's only wet clothes. There's no need to make such a fuss." Anduin grinned and snapped