"Ah, Severus! What a nice surprise!" Albus greeted.
Severus stepped into his office, rolling his eyes.
"I can hardly see how my presence can be considered a surprise when you're in my office." he groused.
His eyes fell on a figure sitting on the corner, and he immediately stiffened.
"What is she doing here?"
Hermione sniffed, insulted.
"The headmaster told me to come here, sir."
Severus seemed mildly annoyed, but sat without comment.
"Now," Albus began, "As you both know, there is only one horocrux left to be found. After some investigating, I have been able to locate it."
"That's wonderful, sir!" Hermione said.
"Miss Granger, could you possibly have the manners to wait until he is finished speaking?" Severus snapped.
"Calm down, Severus. She is merely excited - and rightfully so." Albus interupted. "As I was saying, I have found out where the horocrux is. However, getting it is not as simple as just apparating there and taking it. The keeper of the last horocrux is an old woman who is neither for Voldemort or against him. She will only give the horocrux to someone she deems worthy - and she will only ever consider giving it to a woman. This woman lives in a heavy warded place, and she set up a no-appration ward that extends for miles around her home."
"So we'll have to drive?"
"Not quite." Dumbledore sighed. "You see, she hates most modern muggle technology. She lives in a rural area with no neighbors, and any car, helicopter or motorcylce will just annoy her. To reach her, one must go on horseback, or walk. I want you, Hermione, to be the one to visit her. I am positive that she will find you worthy."
Severus snorted.
"Albus, the girl is seventeen. I doubt this woman will think a person as young as Miss Granger could be wise or noble enough."
"Miss Granger has proven that she posseses a unique thirst for knowledge, bravery, morals and common if the old woman considered men, I would without hesitation send Miss Granger instead of Mr. Potter."
"As would I, if those two were my only choices. But that's not exactly a great feat." Severus commented.
"In fact," Dumbledore countinued as if Severus hadn't spoken. "The only person I would send instead of her is you"
There was a moment of silence before Dumbledore spoke again.
"This is why I want you to accompany her. She is one of my prized students, and I want you to protect her on her journey."
"Albus -"
"Please, Severus. I'm not ordering you. I'm asking - as a friend. I would trust only you with this task."
Severus swallowed audibly. When he spoke, his voice was hoarse.
"Of course, Albus."