The Reopened Dueling Club (I)

"Of course he wouldn't believe me just because I explained myself." Lockhart shook his head. "But so what? He had no evidence. I knew what happened to Quirrell last year. Did he really think I'd come here without investigating anything? But he's suspended now and can only hide in his office. His suspicions pose no threat to me." He looked at Draco. "What about McGonagall? How much does she know?"

Draco leaned back in his chair, his hands folded on his knees. "Professor McGonagall has always suspected you. She thinks you're too close to us Slytherins, that the strength you displayed during that previous Dueling Club class came from outside help. She even thinks you shouldn't have stayed silent about Dumbledore's suspension. But she doesn't know about the Ascension Ritual, the Shadow Society, or your relationship with Lord Madara. She merely—suspects your motives aren't pure."

"Then let her suspect." Lockhart straightened away from the windowsill, walked to the desk, picked up the dark wand, and spun it once in his palm. "If she can't produce evidence, she can't touch me. I am Hogwarts' Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, a teacher recognized by the Board of Governors, the 'practical combat type' in the students' eyes, a genius professor whose talent blossomed late. She's acting Headmistress now. What she needs most is stability. She won't stir up trouble at a time like this."

He raised his head and looked at Draco.

"Please pass word to Lord Madara. I'll be ready for Friday's Dueling Club."

Draco rose and smoothed his robes. "Lord Madara also asked me to pass on a message."

Lockhart looked at him.

"'Light up the stage.'" Draco's voice was quiet. "He said, 'Let everyone see you standing beneath the spotlight. The larger the audience, the safer the shadows behind