Violet Summer: Prisoner of Azkaban

Chapter 18: The Demonstration - Part One

 The long-awaited hour had finally arrived. Lupin and Wolfe led the students from the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, through the corridors, and out past the main gates of Hogwarts. The students followed with great anticipation, walking down the path, across the bridge, and beside the tranquil edge of the Black Lake.

Upon their arrival, Lupin began giving the students strict instructions to remain where they were. He reminded them that Dementors were still lurking in the skies and shadows, and it was crucial to stay together. As Lupin finished his words of guidance, Toni noticed her uncle setting off alone for a moment before returning with familiar faces—Gus and Roan. These two distant cousins had been actively involved in her training over the summer. Toni couldn't help but smile as she watched them engaged in their usual banter, providing her with a brief moment of levity amidst the anticipation.

Approaching Lupin and the students, Gus and Roan received a warm welcome. Gus and Roan's eyes locked with Toni's, giving her a confident nod.

"May I introduce you all to our friends who have helped set all of this up for you," Lupin announced, patting Roan's back gently. "This here is Roan Dovetail. He was part of Ravenclaw house back when we were in Hogwarts. He possesses a brilliant mind and exceptional skills in defense. If you have any questions for Mr. Dovetail, he would be more than happy to help. He truly is a remarkable wizard."

Roan graciously accepted the compliment but modestly shrugged it off. "Remus, you're too kind, really. I'm a simple wizard who enjoys the company of books and, of course, the necessity of defense that all wizards and witches like yourselves should learn."

"A simple way to disguise the fact that he's a total coward," Gus quipped, earning a few laughs from the other students as Roan playfully scowled at him.

"And this is Gus Jackbuck, one of the best wizards in the use of charms, even recognized by the Ministry itself. A proud Gryffindor member," Lupin introduced, smiling warmly at him.

"Pleasure to meet all of you!" Gus said, waving his hand enthusiastically at the students.

With introductions made, the atmosphere lightened, and the students were more at ease in the presence of these experienced wizards. They eagerly awaited what was to come, knowing they were in capable hands. Toni's worries, although not entirely dispelled, were momentarily eased by the camaraderie and humor of Gus and Roan. The stage was set for what would undoubtedly be a memorable and challenging demonstration.

"Gus, I see the lake hasn't been frozen over. Can I assume everything else is at least finished?" Wolfe inquired, gesturing towards the lake. Gus jolted and looked back anxiously.

"Right! I'll tend to it!" he said hurriedly, scurrying across the rocks and retrieving his wand.

Roan peered at him with an odd expression. "You want to start right away?"

"How long ago was the charm put on him?" Wolfe asked.

"About twenty minutes ago!" Gus called out.

"Ah, yes, then right away is better," Wolfe said, smiling at Roan. He then turned to Toni. "Antonia, come on now."

Nerves flooded back into Toni as she proceeded forward, her steps accompanied by a gentle reassuring pat from Harry. She joined her uncle, who wrapped an arm around her shoulder. Just as they were about to continue, Parvati raised her hand.

"Yes, Miss Patil?" Lupin acknowledged.

"Sir, what exactly will Antonia be doing?" she asked, while the other students peered curiously at Wolfe and Lupin.

"I can answer that for you!" Roan exclaimed, excitedly hopping forward. "Before I explain, let me tell you that we have a brief window available to us. Gus has set up a peculiar little time trap for the Dementors. Once it wears off, well, we have other measures in place. But this gives us time to explain everything to you lot. Gus is currently working on a charm to freeze the lake with a layer of ice. Underneath, however, a friend of mine has graciously provided us with a few nasty little water creatures. They die after an hour, so it's safe to say you won't have to worry about them after you see what they can do, of course."