"Jerry, what was going on with those Dementors?" Hermione cautiously peered out from behind Jerry, looking nervous. "Did the Ministry of Magic order them not to hurt students?"
"Dementors might obey the Ministry of Magic to some extent," Jerry said gravely. "But if we run into them out in the open, those dark creatures will follow their wicked instincts. They won't spare students our age."
"Expecto Patronum!"
Just as Jerry was deep in thought about the Dementors' true intentions, a hoarse, panicked voice rang out beyond the circle surrounding them.
Yet the Dementors showed none of the fear he had expected from the Patronus Charm. They seemed to hesitate and watch for a moment before slowly turning away. At last, they vanished from sight.
"Are you two all right?" Relief washed over Lupin when he spotted Jerry and Hermione.
"We're fine." Jerry shook his head. "The Dementors didn't attack us. Thank you for coming, Professor!"
Lupin waved off his thanks with a smile. "Well, I'm sure you could have driven them away even without me."
He paused, then continued, "I was watching a practice match at the Quidditch Pitch when I saw a large group of Dementors gathering over here. I ran over as fast as I could. I didn't expect to find you two."
Lupin glanced around, a wary look crossing his face. "Are you here alone? Did you see anyone else, or... any suspicious animals?"
When they both shook their heads, Lupin sighed. "Well, it seems you've had rotten luck, running into those damned dark creatures again!"
Not far away, Dumbledore hurried over with Snape and Professor McGonagall. All three relaxed when they saw Jerry and Hermione unharmed.
"Are you both all right?" Professor McGonagall asked anxiously as she strode up to them.
"Don't worry, Professor McGonagall. Jerry