Tempus
Prologue
"I need your help Hermione."
How long has it been since Hermione, no, since anyone heard Harry's voice? Aside from the short replies and tired words, it had been too long since Harry managed to voice out his inner thoughts. It was clear to see something so jaded, so dark has been eating him alive and yet Harry lacked the ironic courage to ever say anything aloud.
Till now.
Hermione, Ron and Ginny sat around Harry as they put their books and drinks down to allow him their full undivided attention.
"Yes, anything, Harry." Hermione whispered, putting her hand on his left knee as she first looked deeply into Ginny's eyes, then to Harry's.
"Your Time-Turner, what happened to it?" His voice still sounded so feeble, so needy.
"It's gone. I returned it back at the end of our third year, remember? It belonged to the Ministry of Magic."
"Is there no other way," Harry spoke in slight irritation. "for me to go back in time?"
"Go back?" Ron couldn't help himself. "Go back to when, Harry? To the hell that made you like this?"
"Ron!" Ginny shouted and Hermione swallowed back her tears.
"I- It doesn't matter when. I don't care if it's right before he dies-" Harry too had tears in his eyes.
"Who, Harry?" Hermione held his hand now, ever so tightly.
"S-Severus Snape."