62 Lost Notebook
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"It's a pity, Lockhart; I didn't want it to get to this point," Ethan shrugged regretfully.
"Crucio."
A light red spell hit Lockhart's body, and his initially curved form was immediately stretched straight. Lavender whip marks appeared on his body, along with various signs of torture. Lockhart's knuckles quickly turned purple and swollen. The torture spell had been taught to Ethan by Voldemort's diary, originally intended for extracting information from other wizards.
Lockhart howled in pain, rolling on the ground as if trying to evade an invisible whip that swung towards him. Ethan, showing mercy, waved his wand to stop, not wanting to persecute Lockhart too severely.
Completely robbed of his former grace, Lockhart lay paralyzed on the ground, covered in mud. His body and face bore the marks of torment.
Lockhart regarded Ethan with a gaze as if he were a demon. He propelled himself off the ground, running towards the gate to seek help outside. However, the wooden door of his office had already been enchanted by Ethan. Lockhart strained to open it, but it resisted, forcing him to look back fearfully at the approaching Ethan.
Lockhart might have cooperated with Ethan in the past, but now, a different mindset took hold. The thought of Ethan stealing his limelight, shining in the forefront while he stood alone in the shadows, filled him with unease.
Lockhart firmly believed that Ethan wouldn't dare to kill him at Hogwarts. If he had survived and waited for other professors to discover the anomaly, he could have emerged as the hero who exposed the Chamber of Secrets case. Moreover, this would be his adventure, not one he had stolen from others.
"Lockhart, give me that thing obediently. Don't force me to use this trick!" Ethan's face grew grim, and the tip of his wand emitted a red light—the telltale glow of the Cruciatus Curse.
Still maintaining a stern expression, Ethan approached the dark compartment Lockhart pointed to. He opened it carefully and found Voldemort's diary lying inside. Ethan retrieved it and examined it closely.
"Good choice, Lockhart. Now, stay out of trouble and keep your mouth shut about this. You don't want your dirty secrets exposed, do you?" Ethan warned, holding the diary firmly in his hands.
Lockhart nodded vigorously, still recovering from the effects of the Cruciatus Curse and the punch to his abdomen. He seemed to understand the gravity of the situation and the power dynamics that had shifted.
Ethan decided not to linger in Lockhart's office any longer. He left without another word, leaving Lockhart to contemplate the consequences of his actions. As Ethan walked away, he wondered how Lockhart's reputation would fare after this incident and its impact on his future endeavors.
Back in his office, Ethan inspected the recovered diary. It was a dangerous Dark object, and he knew he needed to keep it in a secure place. He considered informing Dumbledore about the events that transpired, but a part of him hesitated. Ethan wasn't entirely sure how Dumbledore would react, especially considering the delicate nature of the situation.
After some contemplation, Ethan decided to keep the diary hidden for now. He knew he had to be cautious and strategic in dealing with such powerful and dangerous artifacts. The mystery surrounding the Chamber of Secrets and the attacks at Hogwarts was far from over, and Ethan couldn't shake the feeling that more secrets were waiting to be uncovered.
Overwhelmed by the emotional and financial appeal, Lockhart reluctantly agreed to pay the requested compensation. Ethan, satisfied with his negotiation skills, left Lockhart's office with the promised amount in mind.
As Ethan returned through Hogwarts, he pondered the events that had unfolded. The recovery of Voldemort's diary marked a significant step in resolving the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets. However, it also highlighted Hogwarts' complex web of relationships and secrets.
Ethan decided to keep the diary secure, away from prying eyes. He considered confiding in Dumbledore about the recent developments, but a lingering uncertainty held him back. The intricate nature of the situation demanded careful consideration of every move.
Ethan secured the diary in his office in a new, magically protected container. He knew that this Dark object harbored powerful and potentially dangerous magic. Ethan contemplated the best course of action to ensure the safety of Hogwarts and its students.
Meanwhile, news of the incident spread throughout the castle. Whispers and speculations circulated among the students, creating tension and curiosity. Harry, Ron, and Hermione eagerly awaited Ethan's return to hear about the resolution of the mysterious attack on his office.
When Ethan finally entered the Gryffindor standard room, the trio approached him with anticipation and concern. The events of the evening had left them on edge, and they sought reassurance from their trusted professor.
"Professor Ethan, what happened?" Harry inquired, his green eyes reflecting a mixture of curiosity and worry.
Ethan, wearing his usual calm demeanor, looked at the trio and began recounting the events that transpired in Lockhart's office. He explained the recovery of Voldemort's diary and Lockhart's involvement, leaving out specific details to maintain a sense of mystery.
The trio listened attentively, realizing that the resolution of one mystery only unveiled more questions. As Ethan concluded his account, he reassured them, "I've taken measures to ensure the safety of the diary. Now, you must remain vigilant as I work to uncover the truth behind the Chamber of Secrets."
The trio nodded in agreement, their determination renewed. The shadows of uncertainty still loomed over Hogwarts, but with each revelation, they moved one step closer to unraveling the mysteries hidden within the ancient walls of the castle.
