Disclaimer: Harry Potter and his world belong to J.K. Rowling.
Chapter 28: The Patronus Charm
Monday came and the teams agreed to a re-match, to be played Tuesday after classes. After an intense two-hour game, Harry caught the snitch meaning they were that much closer to wining the cup.
Classes that week started out normal. Professor Snape was back to what Harry considered to be his normal self, illustrated perfectly by his reaction of a glare and disgusted snort in response to Harry's attempted thank you for his help over the weekend.
After Defense Against The Dark Arts on Wednesday, Professor Lupin stopped Harry on his way out the door.
"Mr. Potter, please wait a moment," he said.
"Yes sir," Harry said. "What is it?"
"Professor Dumbledore asked me to teach you the Patronus Charm," Professor Lupin explained.
"The what?" Harry asked.
"The Patronus Charm. He said that you wanted to learn it," Lupin said gently.
Harry brightened at once. "Oh! That spell to drive away dementors? Yes!" he exclaimed, getting excited.
"Good, good. Do you remember when we talked about Boggarts earlier this year? We will use one to practice the Patronus Charm on," explained Professor Lupin. "How does Thursday at 8 PM sound?"
"Excellent sir," Harry said.
"Wonderful. Meet me here tomorrow evening then. Take this pass to Professor McGonagall to explain why you are late for Transfiguration."
Thursday evening found Harry and Professor Lupin standing across from each other. Professor Lupin illustrated the proper wand movement and explained the proper pronunciation of the incantation. Harry looked worried but ready to try it on the Boggart.
"Remember Harry, you won't get it the first time," Lupin reminded him. "Are you ready?"
Harry nodded. A dementor came out, the room growing cold. Harry felt the coldness, and quickly tried to speak the incantation, only getting the beginning out before collapsing to the floor, panting heavily. Professor Lupin handed him a piece of a chocolate bar before instructing him to try again. After one hour, Harry could at least get the full incantation out but had yet to experience the protective effects of a correctly done spell. A knock at the door interrupted their session. Professor Lupin tossed Harry a chocolate frog as he opening the classroom door to admit Professor McGonagall. The stern professor looked quite angry.
"I apologize for interrupting but this cannot wait. Mr. Potter, did you order a Firebolt?"
Harry stared at her, shock clearly on his face before quickly shaking his head no as he tried to swallow his mouthful of chocolate.
"Mr. Weasley discovered a Firebolt sitting on your bed. It was wrapped but contained no indication of where it came from."
"I don't know who would send me one," Harry said. "Do you think it was Albus, and he just wanted to surprise me?"
"No. I already spoke to Professor Dumbledore. We suspect Sirius Black sent it. The other professors and I will check the broom for jinxes and curses. If it is clean, it will be returned to you. Do try to be in before curfew."
With a last critical look at Harry, Professor McGonagall swept from the room, gently shutting the door behind her.
Harry was shocked. The professors were going to destroy his new broom. He understood why but that did not make him less angry.
"I think that is enough for tonight. Next week, same time, now hurry back to the tower, do not dawdle."
Harry made his way back to Gryffindor Tower, finding Ron and Hermione settled in front of the fire in the common room.
"Harry!" Hermione cried. "How was your lesson?"
"Did you hear about your new broom?" Ron asked.
"My lesson was good, and yes, I heard about it," Harry said, answering both questions. "Let's just hope that I can have it back and without any damage."
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