Lockhart Returns

The Hufflepuff and Slytherin students sat in neat rows in the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom.

Everyone had opened a notebook to a blank page and dipped a quill in ink. Even Goyle, who usually dozed in the back row, sat up straight.

Some of them had asked the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw students who had taken the class yesterday:

How was Professor Lockhart doing? How were his lessons?

The students they asked had all looked strange.

Some said, "You'll find out when you get there." Others said, "Good luck." One fifth-year Gryffindor even patted Justin on the shoulder and said, "Don't lose faith in life."

Justin hadn't understood at the time, but he had a feeling it was a bad sign.

The door swung open, and Lockhart walked in.

Today he wore pale gold robes, with a brand-new brooch pinned to his collar. "G.L." was engraved on it in flowing script, and it glittered in the classroom candlelight.

His smile was dazzling, his steps so light that he seemed to be moving to a waltz only he could hear.

"Children, I know you must have missed me terribly."

The students nodded eagerly and answered with enthusiasm. Some even began to applaud.

Lockhart's smile grew wider at the sight.

So the other professors were telling the truth. Was I really this popular before I lost my memory?

He cleared his throat and began the lesson in earnest:

"Now, before we begin today's lesson—"

"Please put away A Stroll with a Banshee."

The whole class put their books away in orderly unison.

They thought they were in for another practical lesson and were thrilled.

Several quick-thinking students had already picked up their quills, ready to take notes—

He had only covered half the applications of the Half-Moon Shield Charm last time.