Chapter 7 - Preparing to let go
"What's that you've got there?" Asked Harry.
"Nothing," said Hermione.
Ron grinned at her and moved toward her. "Come on, what'd you find?"
"Did you guys eat?" She asked trying to change the subject.
"Yeah," said Ron flopping down by her. "You hungry?"
"Not really," she replied eyeing Harry. He was standing looking at them, but it was as if he was the only one in the room.
While she was eyeing Harry, Ron reached over her and plucked Sirius's journal.
"Ron," she yelled trying to grab it back. He stretched his arm behind him keeping the book out of her reach. Hermione scrambled over him trying to get it back.
Ron laughed. "Here, Harry. Catch," he said throwing the book at Harry. Harry smirked and caught the book easily.
Hermione sat up glaring at him. "Give it back," she said extending her hand. Harry held it out to her and she got up to receive it. Just as she set her fingers on the book he pulled it back and tossed it over her head back to Ron.
Her hands immediately went to her hips in true Hermione fashion. "You are both acting like children." She turned around so she was facing Ron. "Give it," she said.
"Come on, Hermione," said Ron waving it at her. "Play with us."
Involuntarily, she smiled, but immediately set her face. "I am not going to play with you.
"Come on, Hermione," he said again waving the book at her.
"No," she said shaking her head.
"All right," he said and threw it over her head back at Harry. She threw her arms up trying to catch the book, but she only managed to graze it and sent it spinning into a corner. She and Harry's eyes met and they both moved toward the book, but Ron caught Hermione around the waist and yelled, "get it, Harry."
The boys were laughing spiritedly. Harry went to grab the book, which had fallen open, and Hermione struggled against Ron.
As he went to pick up the book, Hermione pulled out her wand and yelled, "Accio book." The book came hurtling towards Hermione and she caught it securely.
"No fair using magic, Hermione," said Harry amused from the corner as he pulled out his wand.
Hermione grabbed the arm Ron had around her and twisted it at an odd angle. Ron yelled in pain and released her and she quickly reversed their positions so Ron was trapped. With her free arm she pointed her wand into Ron's back. "Drop the wand, Potter or the red head gets it."
Harry grinned and slowly pocketed the wand. "Alright, I give. You can keep your secret little book."
Hermione went to the desk and slipped the book back into the drawer and performed a quick charm to lock it, determined to come back to the book later. Then she turned back to the boys who were watching her with amusement.
"So I guess you're feeling better," said Harry.
"Yeah."
"You sure you're not hungry?"
"No, I'm not."
"I think you should probably go back to bed then," said Harry.
"Harry," said Ron exasperated. "She's fine."
"Yeah, Harry. I'm fine," mimicked Hermione. "Don't be such a killjoy."
Harry raised his eyebrows at them. "I'm glad to see you're in a better mood."
"You too," retorted Hermione.
"Well, not to damper anyone's spirits, but mom told me I'm going back to Hogwarts in the morning," said Ron sulkily.
"So soon," said Hermione disappointed.
"Yeah. She said that you'll be fine and there's no reason for me to stay."
Hermione sighed. "Who knows when we'll be together again. Don't you think..."
"No," interrupted Ron. "I tried. Besides you'll be off soon too."
The unexpected cheer that had filled the room dissipated.
"I guess we should just try and enjoy tonight then," said Hermione.
"I think we should talk a little bit about what's coming up," said Harry.
Just then the door opened and Mrs. Weasley popped in. "There you are," she said agitatedly. "I've been looking all over for you. Hermione dear, you need to eat."
"I'm ok, Mrs. Weasley," said Hermione quickly.
Mrs. Weasley waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense, you need food." She bustled over to Hermione and put her arm around her. "How about a little soup," she smiled not waiting for an answer. "And boys, you need to be getting ready for bed."
"But mom," began Ron.
"No buts, Ron. You need to be getting up early. We're sending you back to Hogwarts through the floo network in the morning and Dumbledore wants you and Severus to go through early, before the rest of the school is awake."
"Snape?" Exclaimed Ron disgustedly.
"Professor Snape, Ronald," snapped Mrs. Weasley.
"When did he get here?" Asked Hermione.
"Only just now," replied Mrs. Weasley, still trying to herd them from the room. "He and Dumbledore are making some final arrangements."
Hermione, Harry, and Ron glanced at each other uncomfortably.
"There's no reason to have such long faces. This is all only temporary." She looked to Harry and Hermione kindly. "You both will be back at Hogwarts before you know it." She paused. "All right, boys. I want you getting ready for bed. Hermione, come downstairs with me."
Hermione reluctantly allowed herself to be led from the room.
"Night, Hermione," called the boys.
"Goodnight," she said over a shoulder as she made her way down the hallway to the staircase.
Once downstairs, Mrs. Weasley set her up at the table and went to the kitchen for the food. As she was waiting Snape entered the room.
"Miss Granger," he began. "I'm glad to see you're alone."
Hermione turned in her chair. "Professor," she acknowledged.
He pulled out a chair, but only stood behind it. "I have just finished arranging the details of our departure with Dumbledore."
Hermione waited, expecting more information. When none was forthcoming she asked. "Where are we going?"
"That is not something you need to know at this point."
"Has Dumbledore spoken to my parents?"
"Miss Granger," Snape began annoyed. "You are seventeen and therefore an over-age witch. You do not need your parents consent. However, if you are concerned..."
"No," interrupted Hermione. "It's better if they don't know what's going on. I was just wondering."
"I will be returning to Hogwarts tomorrow to arrange for my classes to be taken over temporarily and will be back for you in one week."
"A week," said Hermione in surprise. "So soon?"
"Not soon enough," said Snape simply. "I expect, during this time, for you to be following the directions I gave you. In addition I want you to clear your mind every night before you go to bed. And if you experience any more episodes, you are to go to Lupin or Moody immediately."
Hermione nodded and Mrs. Weasley re-entered the room carrying a tray with soup and a tall glass of juice on it. "Severus," she said mildly surprised. "Can I get you something to eat?"
"No," he said abruptly. "I must rejoin the Headmaster." And without another word he swept out of the room.
Mrs. Weasley raised her eyes at his retreating back, but quickly returned her attention to Hermione. "Eat up, dear, and then upstairs to bed."
Hermione quickly picked up her spoon, thinking the sooner she ate enough to satisfy Mrs. Weasley, the sooner she could sneak into the boys room and tell them all that had developed.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry and Ron lay quietly in their respective beds staring into the black room. Neither of them was remotely tired.
"Ron," whispered Harry into the darkness.
"I'm up," said Ron. "Couldn't sleep if I wanted to."
"Yeah, me too," responded Harry.
"I can't believe this is happening," sighed Ron. "It doesn't seem real."
"You should look at it from my perspective," said Harry.
Ron turned on his side so he was facing Harry. "Harry, are you sure you're ok about this? I mean, this is an awful lot to deal with."
"I don't know, Ron." Harry sighed. "I guess I really don't have a choice. Eventually I have to deal with this."
"Why? Why can't you just let Dumbledore and the Order take care of it? Why train to meet him yourself?"
There was an uncomfortable pause. Harry was determined to get both Ron and Hermione off without telling them about the prophecy. He couldn't give them any reason to stay. "This is just something I have to do, Ron. Can you just accept it without question," said Harry.
After another long pause Harry continued. "Ron, I need you to do me a favor."
"Sure," said Ron quickly.
Harry took a deep breath. "Whatever happens, don't let Hermione do anything stupid."
"How do you mean stupid?"
"I mean, flying to London on the back of a pack of Thestrals and breaking into the Department of Mysteries kind of stupid."
"Harry," began Ron.
"I'm serious, Ron. Promise me you won't let anything happen to her."
"Of course I won't, but Harry..."
"Shh," interrupted Harry. "I think your mom's coming."
They listened silently and the door opened slowly. "Harry? Ron?" Hermione whispered. "Are you asleep."
"No," said Harry sitting up. "Come in and close the door."
Hermione entered the room and quickly shut the door plunging them all into darkness. She walked toward where she thought they were and felt around for a place to sit.
"Ow," said Harry.
"Shh," went Ron.
"Sorry," muttered Hermione.
"That's ok," said Harry rubbing his shins where she had sat. He moved over a bit. "Here," he said guiding her to sit.
"I had to come and talk to you both," said Hermione. "I talked to Snape." She could here movement from Ron's direction.
"What he say?"
"He's says he and I will be leaving in about a week. That as soon as he gets someone to cover his potions classes he'll be ready."
"Yes," exclaimed Ron.
"Shh," hissed Hermione and Harry together.
"Sorry," whispered Ron sheepishly. "Bad luck for you, Hermione, but this is the best news I've had in days."
Harry muffled a laugh and Hermione smacked him. "Sorry," he said.
They giggled silently for several minutes before regaining control. "What else did he say," asked Harry.
"Nothing much," said Hermione. "I just have to do the same stuff you had to do."
"I hope you manage better than I did."
Hermione stayed silent, not knowing how to respond.
Ron sensing the tension decided to change the subject. "I wonder what's going to happen with Quidditch."
"I bet Ginny will take my place," said Harry.
"Maybe, but she's a chaser now. Who would take her place if she became seeker," replied Ron.
"Don't know," Harry shrugged into the darkness.
"Well," interrupted Hermione. "One positive thing about Harry and I being away is that at least you won't have a distraction from your school work."
"Ha," said Ron. "You better hurry up and get back or I'll be in serious danger of failing the year. Who's History of Magic notes am I going to copy?"
"Here's an idea," said Hermione mockingly. "Try taking them down yourself."
"I'd rather fail," muttered Ron and they laughed again. They continued in this way for hours, knowing that it would be weeks before they were together again. One by one they succumbed to sleep. Ron was out first and his light snores kept Hermione and Harry awake for a while longer.
Hermione had rested her head on Harry's pillow. "So..." Hermione said.
Harry was propped up on this elbow. "So..." he said smiling down at her.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "I guess you and I will be stuck with each other for a week."
"Guess so," said Harry. "Hermione," he said turning seriously. "You doing ok?"
"Yeah," she said through a yawn. "How about you?"
"I'm fine. But I'm not the one seeing things."
"Not this time," smiled Hermione.
"Ha Ha, very funny."
"Don't worry, Harry. We couldn't be in safer hands, Lupin's here and Moody. And Dumbledore is going to be back and forth, I'm sure."
"Right," agreed Harry. They were silent for several minutes.
"Hermione," whispered Harry. "You know I would never let anything happen to you." He waited. "Hermione? Hermione?" He looked down at her and she was fast asleep.
The bed was much too small for two people, but he didn't want to move. It felt comfortable being close to her. Carefully he laid his head next to her and watched her sleep. Eventually he closed his eyes and allowed the sleep to come over him.
"What's that you've got there?" Asked Harry.
"Nothing," said Hermione.
Ron grinned at her and moved toward her. "Come on, what'd you find?"
"Did you guys eat?" She asked trying to change the subject.
"Yeah," said Ron flopping down by her. "You hungry?"
"Not really," she replied eyeing Harry. He was standing looking at them, but it was as if he was the only one in the room.
While she was eyeing Harry, Ron reached over her and plucked Sirius's journal.
"Ron," she yelled trying to grab it back. He stretched his arm behind him keeping the book out of her reach. Hermione scrambled over him trying to get it back.
Ron laughed. "Here, Harry. Catch," he said throwing the book at Harry. Harry smirked and caught the book easily.
Hermione sat up glaring at him. "Give it back," she said extending her hand. Harry held it out to her and she got up to receive it. Just as she set her fingers on the book he pulled it back and tossed it over her head back to Ron.
Her hands immediately went to her hips in true Hermione fashion. "You are both acting like children." She turned around so she was facing Ron. "Give it," she said.
"Come on, Hermione," said Ron waving it at her. "Play with us."
Involuntarily, she smiled, but immediately set her face. "I am not going to play with you.
"Come on, Hermione," he said again waving the book at her.
"No," she said shaking her head.
"All right," he said and threw it over her head back at Harry. She threw her arms up trying to catch the book, but she only managed to graze it and sent it spinning into a corner. She and Harry's eyes met and they both moved toward the book, but Ron caught Hermione around the waist and yelled, "get it, Harry."
The boys were laughing spiritedly. Harry went to grab the book, which had fallen open, and Hermione struggled against Ron.
As he went to pick up the book, Hermione pulled out her wand and yelled, "Accio book." The book came hurtling towards Hermione and she caught it securely.
"No fair using magic, Hermione," said Harry amused from the corner as he pulled out his wand.
Hermione grabbed the arm Ron had around her and twisted it at an odd angle. Ron yelled in pain and released her and she quickly reversed their positions so Ron was trapped. With her free arm she pointed her wand into Ron's back. "Drop the wand, Potter or the red head gets it."
Harry grinned and slowly pocketed the wand. "Alright, I give. You can keep your secret little book."
Hermione went to the desk and slipped the book back into the drawer and performed a quick charm to lock it, determined to come back to the book later. Then she turned back to the boys who were watching her with amusement.
"So I guess you're feeling better," said Harry.
"Yeah."
"You sure you're not hungry?"
"No, I'm not."
"I think you should probably go back to bed then," said Harry.
"Harry," said Ron exasperated. "She's fine."
"Yeah, Harry. I'm fine," mimicked Hermione. "Don't be such a killjoy."
Harry raised his eyebrows at them. "I'm glad to see you're in a better mood."
"You too," retorted Hermione.
"Well, not to damper anyone's spirits, but mom told me I'm going back to Hogwarts in the morning," said Ron sulkily.
"So soon," said Hermione disappointed.
"Yeah. She said that you'll be fine and there's no reason for me to stay."
Hermione sighed. "Who knows when we'll be together again. Don't you think..."
"No," interrupted Ron. "I tried. Besides you'll be off soon too."
The unexpected cheer that had filled the room dissipated.
"I guess we should just try and enjoy tonight then," said Hermione.
"I think we should talk a little bit about what's coming up," said Harry.
Just then the door opened and Mrs. Weasley popped in. "There you are," she said agitatedly. "I've been looking all over for you. Hermione dear, you need to eat."
"I'm ok, Mrs. Weasley," said Hermione quickly.
Mrs. Weasley waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense, you need food." She bustled over to Hermione and put her arm around her. "How about a little soup," she smiled not waiting for an answer. "And boys, you need to be getting ready for bed."
"But mom," began Ron.
"No buts, Ron. You need to be getting up early. We're sending you back to Hogwarts through the floo network in the morning and Dumbledore wants you and Severus to go through early, before the rest of the school is awake."
"Snape?" Exclaimed Ron disgustedly.
"Professor Snape, Ronald," snapped Mrs. Weasley.
"When did he get here?" Asked Hermione.
"Only just now," replied Mrs. Weasley, still trying to herd them from the room. "He and Dumbledore are making some final arrangements."
Hermione, Harry, and Ron glanced at each other uncomfortably.
"There's no reason to have such long faces. This is all only temporary." She looked to Harry and Hermione kindly. "You both will be back at Hogwarts before you know it." She paused. "All right, boys. I want you getting ready for bed. Hermione, come downstairs with me."
Hermione reluctantly allowed herself to be led from the room.
"Night, Hermione," called the boys.
"Goodnight," she said over a shoulder as she made her way down the hallway to the staircase.
Once downstairs, Mrs. Weasley set her up at the table and went to the kitchen for the food. As she was waiting Snape entered the room.
"Miss Granger," he began. "I'm glad to see you're alone."
Hermione turned in her chair. "Professor," she acknowledged.
He pulled out a chair, but only stood behind it. "I have just finished arranging the details of our departure with Dumbledore."
Hermione waited, expecting more information. When none was forthcoming she asked. "Where are we going?"
"That is not something you need to know at this point."
"Has Dumbledore spoken to my parents?"
"Miss Granger," Snape began annoyed. "You are seventeen and therefore an over-age witch. You do not need your parents consent. However, if you are concerned..."
"No," interrupted Hermione. "It's better if they don't know what's going on. I was just wondering."
"I will be returning to Hogwarts tomorrow to arrange for my classes to be taken over temporarily and will be back for you in one week."
"A week," said Hermione in surprise. "So soon?"
"Not soon enough," said Snape simply. "I expect, during this time, for you to be following the directions I gave you. In addition I want you to clear your mind every night before you go to bed. And if you experience any more episodes, you are to go to Lupin or Moody immediately."
Hermione nodded and Mrs. Weasley re-entered the room carrying a tray with soup and a tall glass of juice on it. "Severus," she said mildly surprised. "Can I get you something to eat?"
"No," he said abruptly. "I must rejoin the Headmaster." And without another word he swept out of the room.
Mrs. Weasley raised her eyes at his retreating back, but quickly returned her attention to Hermione. "Eat up, dear, and then upstairs to bed."
Hermione quickly picked up her spoon, thinking the sooner she ate enough to satisfy Mrs. Weasley, the sooner she could sneak into the boys room and tell them all that had developed.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Harry and Ron lay quietly in their respective beds staring into the black room. Neither of them was remotely tired.
"Ron," whispered Harry into the darkness.
"I'm up," said Ron. "Couldn't sleep if I wanted to."
"Yeah, me too," responded Harry.
"I can't believe this is happening," sighed Ron. "It doesn't seem real."
"You should look at it from my perspective," said Harry.
Ron turned on his side so he was facing Harry. "Harry, are you sure you're ok about this? I mean, this is an awful lot to deal with."
"I don't know, Ron." Harry sighed. "I guess I really don't have a choice. Eventually I have to deal with this."
"Why? Why can't you just let Dumbledore and the Order take care of it? Why train to meet him yourself?"
There was an uncomfortable pause. Harry was determined to get both Ron and Hermione off without telling them about the prophecy. He couldn't give them any reason to stay. "This is just something I have to do, Ron. Can you just accept it without question," said Harry.
After another long pause Harry continued. "Ron, I need you to do me a favor."
"Sure," said Ron quickly.
Harry took a deep breath. "Whatever happens, don't let Hermione do anything stupid."
"How do you mean stupid?"
"I mean, flying to London on the back of a pack of Thestrals and breaking into the Department of Mysteries kind of stupid."
"Harry," began Ron.
"I'm serious, Ron. Promise me you won't let anything happen to her."
"Of course I won't, but Harry..."
"Shh," interrupted Harry. "I think your mom's coming."
They listened silently and the door opened slowly. "Harry? Ron?" Hermione whispered. "Are you asleep."
"No," said Harry sitting up. "Come in and close the door."
Hermione entered the room and quickly shut the door plunging them all into darkness. She walked toward where she thought they were and felt around for a place to sit.
"Ow," said Harry.
"Shh," went Ron.
"Sorry," muttered Hermione.
"That's ok," said Harry rubbing his shins where she had sat. He moved over a bit. "Here," he said guiding her to sit.
"I had to come and talk to you both," said Hermione. "I talked to Snape." She could here movement from Ron's direction.
"What he say?"
"He's says he and I will be leaving in about a week. That as soon as he gets someone to cover his potions classes he'll be ready."
"Yes," exclaimed Ron.
"Shh," hissed Hermione and Harry together.
"Sorry," whispered Ron sheepishly. "Bad luck for you, Hermione, but this is the best news I've had in days."
Harry muffled a laugh and Hermione smacked him. "Sorry," he said.
They giggled silently for several minutes before regaining control. "What else did he say," asked Harry.
"Nothing much," said Hermione. "I just have to do the same stuff you had to do."
"I hope you manage better than I did."
Hermione stayed silent, not knowing how to respond.
Ron sensing the tension decided to change the subject. "I wonder what's going to happen with Quidditch."
"I bet Ginny will take my place," said Harry.
"Maybe, but she's a chaser now. Who would take her place if she became seeker," replied Ron.
"Don't know," Harry shrugged into the darkness.
"Well," interrupted Hermione. "One positive thing about Harry and I being away is that at least you won't have a distraction from your school work."
"Ha," said Ron. "You better hurry up and get back or I'll be in serious danger of failing the year. Who's History of Magic notes am I going to copy?"
"Here's an idea," said Hermione mockingly. "Try taking them down yourself."
"I'd rather fail," muttered Ron and they laughed again. They continued in this way for hours, knowing that it would be weeks before they were together again. One by one they succumbed to sleep. Ron was out first and his light snores kept Hermione and Harry awake for a while longer.
Hermione had rested her head on Harry's pillow. "So..." Hermione said.
Harry was propped up on this elbow. "So..." he said smiling down at her.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "I guess you and I will be stuck with each other for a week."
"Guess so," said Harry. "Hermione," he said turning seriously. "You doing ok?"
"Yeah," she said through a yawn. "How about you?"
"I'm fine. But I'm not the one seeing things."
"Not this time," smiled Hermione.
"Ha Ha, very funny."
"Don't worry, Harry. We couldn't be in safer hands, Lupin's here and Moody. And Dumbledore is going to be back and forth, I'm sure."
"Right," agreed Harry. They were silent for several minutes.
"Hermione," whispered Harry. "You know I would never let anything happen to you." He waited. "Hermione? Hermione?" He looked down at her and she was fast asleep.
The bed was much too small for two people, but he didn't want to move. It felt comfortable being close to her. Carefully he laid his head next to her and watched her sleep. Eventually he closed his eyes and allowed the sleep to come over him.
