Chapter Two: A Short Interlude in Present Time
The next morning, Hermione woke early and began her morning ritual. She looked around the dormitory, knowing it would be the last time she would see it as was in her present time. Hermione left the Gryffindor tower and made her way to Dumbledore's office.
The Headmaster greeted her upon entrance. He conjured a tea service, poured her a cup, and offered her a chair. They drank the tea in uncomfortable silence, Dumbledore studying Hermione intensely.
"Miss Granger, are you absolutely sure you wish to do this? There is still time to change your mind," Dumbledore inquired.
"I am absolutely certain, Headmaster, that this is the right thing to do. I will admit I have some reservations, but I know that all will work out for the best in the end. Now, what situation will I find myself in when I arrive?"
"I have traveled back to tell my past-self of your imminent arrival. It will be the week before the fall term begins, and Severus will be there as well. It used to be a tradition to have the Head Girl and Head Boy arrive the week before school started to assist the teachers and get to know each other better, as they spend quite a lot of time together throughout the year. I have also arranged for your personal items, except for your books because new ones will be provided, to be sent after you."
Hermione eyed the headmaster with interest. "Sir, how, exactly, am I Head Girl in that time? Won't it cause some… resentment among the current Gryffindors?"
"I have spoken with members of the faculty, and they have agreed to stem that resentment. Lily Evans, the girl who would have become Head Girl, has declined the position in light of the current Order mission. I have decided that they, those you affectionately call the 'Marauders,' should join the Order earlier than I would have liked in hope that Lily can get both James and Sirius to leave Severus in peace. They are aware of your situation as well. I feel it will be beneficial to the situation. I cannot impress upon you the importance of this mission. Severus must not become a Death Eater at all costs."
Hermione nodded. "I believe I am ready to go sir, after one final question that is. How will I be able to come back, if I so choose?"
Dumbledore chuckled. "The answer is quite simple my dear. You will simply have to prove that you have kept Severus from joining the Death Eaters, at least until after Voldemort has been destroyed, and then I, in the past, will give you the option to return to this time. Do you understand?"
"Completely, sir; I'm ready to go then."
"I wish you the best of luck, Miss Granger. I have no doubt that you will succeed." With that simple goodbye, Dumbledore performed a complex combination of spells. Slowly, Hermione disappeared into the annals of time.