**Chapter 15: The Headmaster's Warning**
As Harry, Ron, and Hermione entered the Great Hall for the welcome feast, the air buzzed with excitement and chatter. The enchanted ceiling reflected the starry night sky outside, adding a touch of magic to the atmosphere. Harry's mind, however, was still preoccupied with the Dementor encounter and his growing abilities as a Seer.
Dumbledore stood up, his presence commanding immediate silence. His eyes twinkled behind his half-moon glasses as he surveyed the students. "Welcome, all of you, to another year at Hogwarts," he began, his voice warm and reassuring. "Before we begin our feast, I must address a matter of grave importance."
The hall grew even quieter, the students hanging on Dumbledore's every word. Harry noticed the familiar figures of Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape looking unusually serious.
"As many of you are aware, we had an unexpected visit from the Dementors while you were on the Hogwarts Express," Dumbledore continued, his tone grave. "The Dementors are here on Ministry orders to guard the castle and the grounds, as Sirius Black, a dangerous fugitive, is at large."
Murmurs spread through the hall at the mention of Sirius Black. Harry glanced at Ron, who looked equally concerned. The encounter with the Dementors had already left a mark on them, and now the threat felt even more real.
"The Dementors are here for our protection," Dumbledore said, raising his voice slightly to be heard over the growing whispers. "However, they are not creatures to be trifled with. They are capable of causing severe distress and even harm to those who come into close contact with them. I urge you all to take utmost care and avoid them at all costs."
Harry felt a shiver run down his spine as he recalled the cold dread of the Dementor's presence. He knew he had to stay vigilant, not just for himself but for his friends as well.
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Dumbledore's gaze swept across the hall, his expression serious. "If any of you feel unwell or need assistance, do not hesitate to seek help from a teacher or staff member. Your safety is our priority."
As Dumbledore resumed his seat, the hall buzzed with anxious conversation. The feast began, but the usual cheer was somewhat dampened by the ominous news. Harry picked at his food, his thoughts a whirlwind of concerns about Sirius Black, the Dementors, and his own growing powers.
After the feast, Harry and Ron made their way back to the Gryffindor common room. As they settled into the cozy armchairs by the fire, Ron broke the silence. "Harry, that Patronus you conjured on the train – how did you manage that? It was amazing!"
Harry leaned back, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I had a dream last night," he began, choosing his words carefully. "In the dream, I was attacked by a Dementor. I used the Patronus Charm to defend myself. When I woke up, I decided to try it for real. It took a few attempts, but eventually, it worked."
Ron looked at Harry with awe. "Blimey, Harry! That's incredible! You're like some kind of wizarding prodigy."
Harry appreciated Ron's support. "Thanks, Ron. We'll all need to be prepared. I can show you how to do it, but it will take practice."
Just then, Hermione entered the common room, looking slightly flustered. She joined them by the fire, her face a mask of curiosity and concern. "Sorry I'm late," she said, avoiding Harry's knowing gaze.
Harry knew why Hermione had been called away, but he kept that to himself. "No problem, Hermione. We were just talking about the Dementor encounter and the Patronus Charm."
Hermione nodded, eager to change the subject. "Harry, that Patronus was amazing. How did you learn it?"
Harry repeated his story about the dream and practicing the charm. Hermione listened intently but did not press further about her absence.
"Harry, you have to teach us," Hermione said, her determination clear. "We need to be able to defend ourselves."
Ron nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Harry. We can't always rely on you to save us."
Harry smiled at his friends. "Of course, I'll teach you. But it will take practice and patience."
As the night wore on, they discussed strategies and ways to protect themselves from the Dementors. Harry shared what he remembered from his dream about the Patronus Charm and the powerful memory he used to conjure it. His friends listened intently, their determination growing with each passing moment.
Finally, they decided to call it a night. As Harry lay in bed, his mind raced with thoughts of the challenges ahead. He knew that this year at Hogwarts would be unlike any other. The presence of the Dementors, the threat of Sirius Black, and his own evolving powers as a Seer all pointed to a year filled with danger and discovery.
But Harry was ready. With his friends by his side and the guidance of his teachers, he knew he could face whatever lay ahead. As he drifted off to sleep, the words of Dumbledore echoed in his mind: "Your safety is our priority."
He was determined to stay safe and protect those he cared about, no matter the cost. And with that resolve, Harry fell into a deep, dreamless sleep, ready to face the new scho
ol year and the challenges it would bring.
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