Shawn's simple, blunt words made Dumbledore pause in a daze before he gave a self-deprecating smile.
"Yes, there are no saints in this world. I really am getting old. I always hope the younger generation will make fewer mistakes and take fewer wrong turns, and I've become rather demanding in every respect."
Before Shawn could say anything, Dumbledore's expression changed.
"Your outlook is already quite mature. Beyond keeping an eye on you, there isn't much I can teach you. As it happens, the Patronus Charm and Water Prison are my specialties.
"I'll take this opportunity to give you some guidance today, and help you establish an even stronger image in front of your subordinates."
Shawn finally lost his composure and looked at the old man before him with mixed feelings.
He now understood why Dumbledore had suddenly decided to set aside their past grievances and teach him.
He claimed he wanted to reinforce Shawn's image of strength among the Death Eaters, but his real intention was to strengthen Shawn's conviction to protect.
This old man loved the world far too deeply.
Only after a long silence did Shawn bow deeply and speak with sincerity.
"Thank you for your guidance, Professor."
Dumbledore chuckled.
"If you've studied the Patronus Charm in depth, you'll know that this magic does far more than repel Dementors and deliver messages. It also has tremendous offensive power.
"Unwavering conviction is its nourishment. When a conviction to protect passes a certain threshold, supplemented by a few techniques,
"a Patronus can rival a forbidden spell in power.
"Protection is one of the strongest forces in the world!
"All right, that's enough explanation. After all, actual combat is the best teacher."
With that, Dumbledore took out the knobbly Elder Wand and waved it without even speaking an incantation.
A torrent