Jasper

Chapter 5

That's when Dumbledore appeared in the room. It wasn't the most graceful of entrances, as you'd expect from the greatest wizard of his day. Rather, he stumbled clumsily from the fireplace in a cloud of dust and ash, making everyone cough and rub their eyes.

"I believe I can answer that, my dear." Dumbledore stated, that trademark twinkle fixed in his eye.

"Hello Headmaster," Hermione greeted him, trying in vain to keep the anger from her voice.

"Ah, Miss Granger, I understand why you are angry, and you certainly have every right. I will also let you hex me thoroughly if you feel the need. Might I suggest Odorous Noxious, a particularly nasty charm I've had the displeasure of experiencing once before. Constant bad smells, very unpleasant."

This little speech had the desired effect. A reluctant smile made its way to Hermione's lips. "Thank you, Headmaster, that won't be necessary."

Then the Headmaster sobered and approached the sofa. "Please understand Hermione, every action we've taken has been to protect you and your son." He laid his gentle hand first on Hermione's head and then on Jasper's in what seemed almost a blessing. Hermione's breath caught and tears threatened once more.

Merlin, she was so bloody tired of crying. Instead, she shifted Jasper slightly and addressed Dumbledore once more.

"Excuse me sir, but about the amulets, what do they mean, exactly? I remember buying it on the Riviera, but that apparently didn't happen."

"Quite right, Professor, quite right. The amulets are quite literally your connection to each other. The stone is red jasper, and the reason you gave your son the name you did. Jasper is a powerful stone and is much valued in our world, particularly by dark wizards. Contained in the stone around your neck is all of the dark magic Malfoy used during your time in captivity. Those amulets are the reason little Jasper is still alive and the reason Lucius Malfoy is still after him."

Hermione's breath caught and she held Jasper tighter.

"Not to worry my dear," the Headmaster continued, "you are both very well protected. That amulet is very powerful and dangerous, but must never leave your neck. Jasper must always have his as well. Always. This is very important, Hermione, for many reasons. You've been having vivid dreams of late, have you not?"

Hermione nodded and Remus gave her shoulder a supportive squeeze.

"The amulet has been causing those dreams. It has shown you a connection to your son, even before you knew he existed. Parting with those stones will break that connection and kill you both."

Hermione was silent. She felt anger boiling up inside her again. She burped Jasper quietly and passed him gently to Remus.

She stood and approached Dumbledore, laying a hand tentatively on his arm. Then her cinnamon eyes met his twinkling green ones and she made her quiet request.

"Lift the memory charm, Albus."