Hermione's talent in magical studies was undeniably exceptional. Combined with her natural aptitude, the young girl never allowed herself to become complacent. Instead, she pushed herself even harder, mastering a vast array of spells and naturally surpassing her peers in strength.
Moreover, Hermione was a girl deeply attuned to emotions. Under the loving care of Glenn and her elders, her childhood was filled with far more positive emotions than negative ones. The sweetness, joy, and happiness she experienced in her relationship with Glenn, whom she spent every day with, made Hermione believe herself to be the luckiest, happiest, and most joyful girl in the world. Her inner thoughts were easy to imagine.
Any traces of negativity in her heart had long been banished to some forgotten corner by the overwhelming positivity.
And, on top of all this, she had also mastered the power of Sanctity—a force born from the purest positive emotions.
The Patronus Charm, an ancient and mysterious spell, was a reflection of the caster's inner self. It embodied positivity, symbolizing hope, joy, and the will to persevere.
Casting the Patronus Charm required a strong magical foundation, far beyond the average wizard's capabilities. The spell only worked when one fully concentrated, summoning a deeply happy or love-filled memory to fill their heart with positivity.
For Hermione, meeting these conditions was almost effortless.
In terms of magical foundation, her extensive knowledge and innate talent were more than sufficient.
Concentration? For Hermione, the academic prodigy, it was second nature.
As for positive emotions, her heart was already overflowing with them.
Casting the Patronus Charm was merely a natural progression.
The first time Hermione attempted the Patronus Charm, her instincts told her she would succeed.
And, as expected, when Hermione uttered the incantation, a silvery light immediately filled the Room of Requirement.
Although her first Patronus was formless, one only needed to look back through the annals of history to see how rare it was for a wizard to successfully cast the Patronus Charm on their first try.
The number was likely very few—if not none at all.
Now, after diligent practice, Hermione's Patronus had taken on a corporeal form. With the Dementors approaching, it was finally time to put it to use and protect her friends.
But Hermione was not one to stop there. She had never been a selfish person.
Hermione was a warm-hearted, kind, and compassionate young witch.
"I'm sorry, Glenn, but I can't accept the option of only using the Patronus Charm to protect this compartment."
The young girl looked at Glenn, placing her other hand over his. Beneath their hands, Hermione's palms warmly enveloped his.
"My other friends are in the other compartments. The other young witches and wizards are also facing the threat of the Dementors. Since I have the ability to drive them away and shield the students from their influence, I can't just stand by and do nothing."
"I know you're looking out for me, not wanting me to overexert myself and become exhausted. But I still hope to use my strength to protect everyone."
Hermione's gaze burned intensely as she stared at Glenn beside her.
Even with his eyes closed, Glenn could feel the fiery determination in her gaze.
He slowly turned his head, gently placing his free left hand on Hermione's head, stroking her fluffy hair.
"Then do as you wish."
"Eh?"
Hermione blinked her large eyes, clearly startled by Glenn's decisive reply.
"I know you're most likely going to act as you've said. As you guessed, I was merely offering a more convenient option, but the choice is yours."
"So go ahead and do what you believe in. I'll take care of the rest."
Hermione paused for a moment, then threw her arms around Glenn in a tight hug.
"Glenn! I absolutely love you!"
She planted a quick kiss on Glenn's cheek. Although she wanted to linger, the urgency of the situation and the envious, sharp gazes around her made the young girl quickly let go. She stepped past Ginny and Luna, moving to the front of the compartment.
Her cheeks were flushed, though it was unclear whether it was from shyness or the joy of having her thoughts understood and supported by someone she cared about.
Having one's closest person understand, support, and respect one's thoughts was always a joyful and encouraging experience.
No wonder Hermione was in such high spirits at this moment.
As words turned into action, the Hogwarts Express gradually came to a halt, signaling the imminent arrival of the Azkaban guards. The creatures that fed on joy and hope were about to board the train.
"They'll reach the entrance of the Hogwarts Express in ten seconds, Hermione. I'll leave the train to you."
After saying this, Glenn made no move to get up. Leaning back against the sofa with his arms crossed, head slightly bowed, and eyes closed, he appeared to have fallen asleep.
"Leave it to me!"
Hermione, once again encouraged, felt her emotions soar to their peak. Without looking back, she opened the compartment door and stepped into the train's corridor.
With a wave of her right hand, her brown wand appeared. Her right foot stepped forward while her left foot shifted slightly back. Hermione raised her wand-wielding hand to align with her line of sight.
Taking a deep breath, she inhaled and exhaled, adjusting her state. She restrained her overflowing happiness, letting it settle and condense within her heart, waiting for the moment to erupt.
Her dangling bangs couldn't hide the confidence and determination shining in her brown, crystalline eyes. As the temperature around her began to drop with the Dementors' approach, Hermione slowly exhaled a breath of air, a wisp of white mist escaping her slightly parted lips.
Hermione was ready.
The Hogwarts Express had come to a complete stop. The faint creak of the train doors opening reached Hermione's ears.
She knew the moment had come.
She no longer suppressed the emotions overflowing in her heart.
The sense of security brought by her elders' meticulous care. The gratitude for their patient companionship.
The joy of harmonious friendships. The happiness of timely help.
The warmth from Glenn's unwavering protection. The comfort from his thoughtful care. The joy from his understanding and respect.
And the budding love that, though still unfamiliar, was earnestly expressed.
All these emotions began to swell within Hermione, her magical energy surging, her magical circuits forming.
A sacred and soothing aura emanated from her. A soft white glow covered her brown eyes.
"I want to use the feelings and memories you've given me to protect you all."
This was Hermione's beautiful wish.
And now, it was time to realize it—
"Expecto Patronum!"
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
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