Harry Potter and the Flying Squad (01) - Sahits

"Part of our strategy is, we do not publish our information. What's left of order and spirit in
the wizarding world would collapse immediately ... It's essential to publish this with the
headline 'Defeat of the Dark Forces' ... So we cannot put a squadron of combat wizards into
the train. Now, if we had to protect more than what fits into one compartment, our own forces
won't be sufficient - I mean the forces that can be put into the train without raising suspicion."
"Which is me?" Suddenly, Harry's mouth felt dry.
"Which is you, plus somebody you'll appreciate very much." Seeing Harry's glance, Lupin
added, "No, not me ... Yes, I'll be in the train, but hidden ... You'll travel with a pet animal."
Harry's head jerked around.
Sirius Black nodded. "Yes, Harry - you and me."
"Luckily," continued Lupin, "even the dark wizards aren't able to kill as cold-blooded as this
situation would require - with a well-known exception, of course, but - for some unknown
reason, Voldemort will not be leading the attack. No, they will send Dementors for the dirty
job ... And now, it should sound quite familiar to you, Harry."
He felt relieved and, at the same time, frightened. "You mean, I have to sit with them, and
when the Dementors arrive, all I have to do is to conjure up a Patronus gallopping around who
will chase them away?"
"That's it, in your own, remarkable words ... And listen, Harry - this is your task, no matter
what happens around. You won't leave from their side, whether Dementors arrive or not ...
None of the other students is at risk for their life."
"Yes, I see."
Harry was thinking ahead. "Professor Lupin, I - erm, I do not routinely conjure up a Patronus.
So ..."
"... you might benefit from more training. Certainly so - even if I remember one of the most
brilliant Patronuses I ever saw ... Harry, unless you say 'Stop', you'll spend an awful lot of
time with me as your trainer, until the Hogwarts Express will be on its way."
A wide grin was the reaction. Working with Lupin - what an appealing thought, especially
since it probably meant he would stay in Hogwarts.
Dumbledore interrupted his speculations. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I gather - our meeting has
reached its goal. With respect to the bedtime of our youngest combattant, and since I'd like to
have a few words alone with Harry, let us come to an end ... Thank you for your cooperation
in a desperate fight, for your tolerance," a nod toward McGonagall, "and for your spirit in the
days to come ... Good night."
* * *
The others were gone. Sirius had explained he would await Harry downstairs, then he too had
left. Now Dumbledore asked, "How do you feel, Harry?"
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