Shawn had gradually learned to keep his composure. Until he had figured out Lockhart's allegiance and true origins, he decided to hold off.
The Chamber of Secrets plan would also have to be delayed a little.
In less than a week, Lockhart's advanced teaching methods, meticulous instruction, elegant bearing, and boundless patience had worked their magic.
He quickly became the school's newest star, adored by virtually every student and praised by all the other professors.
His reputation had gone through the roof, and no one could rival his popularity.
Shawn really could not stir up trouble now. He might end up doing all the work for someone else to reap the rewards.
Although he felt a little stifled, he had learned a great deal.
So this was what it meant to win people over gently.
Perhaps he could collect faith value the same way.
That night was dark and windy, with a bright moon and few stars.
Shawn brought Theodore into the even darker Forbidden Forest, ready to fulfill a few promises to the Little Badgers.
They made their way through the dense woods. Just before they reached the acromantula nest, Shawn suddenly stopped.
He turned and solemnly asked Theodore, who had been following him in silence.
"Do you want to be younger?"
Theodore paused, puzzled.
"Chief, I don't understand."
Shawn raised his wand, letting its glowing tip illuminate Theodore's brown hair. Theodore stood a head taller than him, and Shawn could see silver strands scattered through his hair.
He could not help sighing.
"I thought the secret technique you used to age yourself had no side effects beyond sacrificing thirty years of your life. After all, I have a secret technique of my own that can replenish your vitality.
But what's going on with your hair? Why is