In the black van, Jane noticed Thor's depressed silence and pale expression. Quickly, she offered words of comfort, "Thor, what's wrong? You seem very down. If something's bothering you, you can tell us. We'll face it together."
"Yes, we're a team," Daisy chimed in. "I believe no matter how tough the problem, we can solve it together."
Lockhart, seated in front, turned slightly to glance at Thor. He suspected the reason for Thor's melancholy was Loki's deception, but he found it prudent to stay out of family affairs. His goals were simpler — gain recognition and reap rewards from the lottery.
Reassured by Jane and Daisy's comforting words, Thor's color seemed to return as he admitted in a low voice, "It's nothing, just that... I want to stay on Earth forever!"
Jane breathed a sigh of relief, having braced herself for worse news. "Don't worry, I will always be here with you," she assured him, her words seeming to lift his spirits gradually. Lockhart mused to himself about the power of love, recalling Dumbledore's interest in the subject. Perhaps there was indeed profound truth in it.
Eric, who is driving, overheard their conversation and fell into a thoughtful silence, focusing more intently on the road.
Upon returning to the house shared by Eric and the others, Lockhart waved his wand, and soon five glasses filled with water and orange juice appeared on the table. As everyone settled on the sofa, Daisy expressed her envy, "Professor Lockhart, your magic is so practical. I wish I could just wave my hand and have dinner ready."
Lockhart responded with a hint of helplessness, "The issue of teaching Muggles magic has been a long-standing debate in our wizarding world. Despite numerous studies, even by powerful wizards, no successful methods have been found."
Changing the topic, Lockhart addressed Thor, "I heard you mention wanting to stay on Earth. Do you have any plans? I can offer some suggestions if you need them."
Thor, still absorbing his recent decision, didn't respond, prompting Lockhart to shift the conversation again, "Let's not dwell on it for now; perhaps you need more time to think. In the meantime, could you share something about Asgard's magic? As wizards, we're naturally curious."
Jane, Daisy, and Eric leaned in, eager to hear about Asgardian magic, which Thor began to explain, "I'm not deeply versed in magic, that's more Loki and my mother Queen Frigga's domain. But I know our magic heavily involves runes..."
Lockhart listened intently, even using a spell to enhance his memory for later review. After Thor's introduction, the conversation shifted, and everyone shared personal anecdotes, transforming the once somber mood into a lively exchange. Lockhart even conjured up a delicious midnight snack, adding to the festive atmosphere.
As the night wore on, sleepiness began to claim Eric and the others, signaled by the late hour and the bright moon outside. Lockhart stood up and suggested, "Let's call it a night. We can continue our chat another time if the opportunity arises."
With a playful wink at Thor, he added, "I still have many questions about Asgard's magic for you to answer."
Thor, buoyed by the camaraderie, responded heartily, "Of course, Lockhart! You're my friend. Feel free to ask anything you want, and I'll share all I can."
As everyone prepared to leave, Lockhart handed Thor a magically extended space bag, explaining, "This is a space extension bag, commonly known as a space bag. It has a lot of room inside. I've set it up so even ordinary Muggles can use it. Since you plan to stay on Earth, life will have its costs. I don't have much currency here, but I do have gold. Take some from this bag; it should help."
Seeing Thor hesitate, Lockhart quickly added, "Don't reject it Thor. Gold isn't that valuable to us wizards. Besides, the magic knowledge you've shared is invaluable to me. Consider this a fair exchange. If you feel indebted, just promise not to hold back any answers about Asgard's magic in the future."
Thor grasped the space bag, acknowledging the gesture and the friendship it represented. He recognized that the information he had shared was basic, yet Lockhart had offered him something of significant earthly value. This act solidified their bond, and Thor felt a genuine connection to Lockhart.
Lockhart then excused himself, indicating there was no need for a send-off, and walked out the door, hearing the system chime softly as he left—a smile spreading across his face.
Back at his rented house, Lockhart sat at his desk, activated the system, and focused on the character recognition page, which read:
"Character recognition:
Thor Odinson (70/100)."