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Chapter 131
Harry approached Professor McGonagall, pleading with her to let him join the trip with his friends.
But all his attempts failed.
Her final word was firm: "No."
Professor McGonagall placed a hand on Harry's shoulder.
"I cannot, my boy. What would become of me if something were to happen to you on a trip without your guardian's consent? The school and I would bear the responsibility. You are not the only one staying behind. Albert as well. Speak to one another inside until we return, hmm?"
With that, she gave him a gentle pat on the back and left.
Harry then noticed Albert walking up the staircase toward the Gryffindor common room.
Choosing another path, Harry made his way toward the bridge that offered a breathtaking view of the mountains, their towering peaks blanketed with snow, shining under the pale winter light.
When he arrived, he was surprised to see Professor Lupin already there, gazing at the distant horizon.
Harry drew closer. Lupin turned and said warmly, "I suppose you're feeling down about not joining the trip?"
Harry lowered his eyes and answered softly, "Yes. I was really looking forward to it. But because my mother's family never signed the permission slip, I couldn't go."
Lupin nodded, understanding the weight of Harry's disappointment all too well.
"When I first saw you on the train, Harry, I was certain you were Lily's son," Lupin said with a faint smile. "You have her eyes. You remind me so much of those days with your father… and with Albert's father as well."
Harry hesitated before blurting out, "Is it true then? That Albert's father, Sirius Black, is a follower of Voldemort?"
Lupin immediately scolded him gently but firmly.
"Never say his name like that again."
After a pause, he continued, "Listen, when your father, Sirius, and I were friends at school, Sirius was never a servant of that man. But after graduation, each of us went our separate ways. I cannot tell you for certain what choices Sirius made afterward, I did not see it with my own eyes."
Lupin then shifted the conversation.
"I was surprised by your boggart in class, Harry. I thought it would take the form of that man."
Harry looked down. "At first, yes… I was terrified of him. But after that incident on the train, something inside me changed. I realized what I truly feared most… those dark, cloaked creatures. Dementors."
Lupin's expression softened. "That makes sense. Dementors are vile beings. They drain away all happiness, leaving only despair. That's why you heard your mother's screams when they drew near."
Determination sparked in Harry's eyes. He turned to Lupin.
"Professor, I want you to teach me the Patronus Charm. I want to defend myself. I don't know why, but the Dementors always seem to come for me more than anyone else. I have to be able to fight them."
Lupin regarded him thoughtfully before speaking.
"When I first learned the Patronus Charm, I was sixteen. It's an advanced spell, Harry, exceptionally difficult. Talent and perseverance are both required."
Harry's heart sank at Lupin's words. Yet he couldn't help but feel a stab of envy when he remembered how Albert had already conjured a Patronus on the train to save them all from the Dementors.
Finally, Lupin walked alongside him and said, "But… you are my student. And a teacher should never refuse to help his students. I will teach you."
He gave Harry a nod of approval.
Harry's face broke into a wide, hopeful smile. For the first time that day, happiness stirred within him.