Chapter 402: Happy Memories
As soon as the chill faded, Madam Pomfrey stood to check on the pale students, but a gentle hand stopped her.
"Not yet, Poppy. The students can handle this level of strain," Professor Lupin said with a reassuring shake of his head.
He glanced around at the discouraged faces and offered a half-smile. "Don't feel disheartened. I didn't expect you to succeed on your first try. Honestly, I'd be more than a little shocked if anyone had."
Professor Lupin continued, "Remember that sensation—the cold, the fear—and imagine everything before you as a Dementor. Try again with that feeling in mind. And for those who struggled, your emotions may not have been powerful enough. You might need to choose a different memory."
The students began practicing again, focusing on the chill they'd just experienced, their wands raised in determined concentration. The professors moved among them, offering guidance and encouragement wherever needed.
Professor Lupin made his way over to a group of Gryffindors. "Harry, how are you holding up?"
"I'm fine, Professor," Harry replied, looking slightly pale but visibly exhilarated. For the first time, he'd felt the bone-deep cold of a Dementor without blacking out, and the accomplishment gave him a fresh sense of confidence.
"Expecto Patronum!" he said, lifting his wand in front of Professor Lupin. A billowing mist of silver-white emerged, condensing briefly into a shadowy form.
"Excellent," Professor Lupin said, impressed. "Managing this on your first attempt already puts you ahead of many fourth years, Harry."