A/N: Finally the next chapter!
How the characters are in this story is my interpretation or perception of how they would be for should one of them to have gone back in time with all the changes that have been made, there is new and or different information. For anyone out there that may feel that I am destroying any characters of JKR's…sorry that you feel that way. Now as for what Lily said to Severus in the previous chapter…I AM MOT, NOR IS MY VERSION OF THE CHARACTER OF LILY POTTER, BLAMING HER FOR WHAT HAPPENED YEARS AGO! My version of Lily was/is just trying to get something across to Severus…the next chapter should reveal what she was/is getting at.
Chapter 91
Hermione took a deep breath and slowly exhaled before saying, "I Hermione Jean Granger acknowledge, accept and embrace Petunia Evans, my aunt and Dudley Evans, my cousin with an open heart and open arms."
Hermione kept her hold on their hands as she felt a slight jolt of magic pass through one hand and then the other. Hermione then gave Dudley a slight but obvious nod of her head indicating for him to go next.
"I Dudley Evans acknowledge, accept and embrace Hermione Jean Granger, my cousin with an open heart and open arms." Dudley said as clam and as clear as he could.
Dudley's eyes opened wide and looked Hermione directly in the eyes. Seeing that Hermione was smiling so confidently relaxed and calmed Dudley down. It was startling to him to feel the jolt of magic pass through one hand and then other, it was quite stronger than what he had felt pass through his hand that was in contact with Hermione's after she had said her part.
Hermione with a warm, reassuring smile glanced at Petunia.
"I Petunia Evans acknowledge, accept and embrace Hermione Jean Granger, my niece with an open heart and open arms." Petunia said clearer than she thought she would have been.
Less than a second later all three sucked in a breath at the same time, the magic that passed through their joined hands was much more than a jolt. Instead it was a surge of magic. It was warm and loving as one would associate with family. They felt a bit connected, closer, stronger and bonded. Hermione slightly tightened her grip on their hands. Dudley and Petunia responded by tightening their grip on the hand they held of Hermione's as well as their grasped hands. As the surge of magic continued to pass through their connected hands it picked up in speed to the point of pulsing. Suddenly it felt as though there had been an explosion of some sort but they kept their hands connected. As they gained their baring they could see a soft Emerald glow that was surrounded and intertwined with a golden stream or thread hovering over and around Hermione. A soft Topaz glow that was surrounded and intertwined with a silver stream or thread was hovering over and around Petunia and Dudley. After several seconds the Silver and Gold threads unwound from their respective colored glow, the Emerald glow and the Topaz glow seemed to even out the area around the three evenly with the edges just touching as the Silver and Gold threads surrounded and intertwined with the glowing colors as the threads twisted together until it was impossible to discern where it began or ended as though it was unending, forever united.
"What…did it work?" Asked Petunia mesmerized by what she saw.
"Yes. Don't ask me how I know…I can feel it."
"I know what you mean Hermione. So on to the next stage?"
"Yes." Hermione said as she let go of Dudley's hand and picked up the knife.
"Would you like me to hold Harry's hands still while you make the cuts?"
"Please."
When Hermione and Dudley let go of each other they could still it surrounding them, just as unending and united as before. Hermione was quite shaky making the cuts into Harry's palms. It was different when she did this to herself and her aunt and cousin…they were consensual and she was going to making the cuts into Harry's palms left-handed. She was not able to ask Harry if he would be okay with this. It didn't matter that without a doubt she knew that Harry would be just fine she still did not feel comfortable doing this without his verbal consent but knew there was no other way and made the cuts. After setting the knife aside once again, Hermione and Dudley firmly grasped Harry's hands. Hermione took a steady deep breath and let it out. She was a little nervous but not because of what she was about to do. It had to do with the unknown and the fact that she was anxious and anticipating what could be added to what already surrounded them.
"I Hermione Jean Granger acknowledge, accept and embrace Harry James Potter, my cousin with an open heart and open arms." Hermione said with a broad smile on her face.
Hermione closed her eyes and relished in the warmth and love that she could feel course through her. The pulsing surge of magic flowing through pitched slightly in speed and strength. When she opened her eyes she was looking directly into Dudley's and knew that he and Petunia had felt the same thing.
"I Dudley Evans acknowledge, accept and embrace Harry James Potter, my cousin with an open heart and open arms." Dudley said with a hopeful smile.
Again the pulsing surge of magic pitched in speed and strength. The warmth was warmer. The love was stronger, deeper.
"I Petunia Evans acknowledge, accept and embrace Harry James Potter, my nephew with an open heart and open arms." Petunia said smiling as a lone tear slowly slid down her check.
The pulsing surge of magic pitched to a level that seemed impossible, dangerous, and even possibly fatal if it was a human's heart rate. The air around them became quite warm but not to the point of sweating or burning. The strength of love was so strong that they were consumed with it, tears freely falling from their eyes and sliding down their faces to drip onto their clothes. The three of them tightened their grips on the hands they were holding. Hermione and Dudley stared at each other, eyes opened wide. They had felt a tightening on their hands that were in contact with Harry's. As they held on what felt like another explosion of some sort, Hermione realized that it was actually a burst of powerful magic sparkling out, mixing with the air and surrounding them.
Once they had regained their baring's again they could see that a ruby red glow had incorporated itself amongst the other glows. The new color was shimmering or twinkling like a gem would. As they watched a second thread of gold slithered through the multicolor glow and around them and then began to twine itself around the Silver and Gold thread already twined together. The three of them glanced around keeping silent. It was breathtaking and incredible.
"So, Hermione now what do we do?" Whispered Dudley.
"We need to focus on healing Harry. What we want most for Harry right now. We don't need to say it aloud. Focus on healing and what we feel for and about Harry." Hermione answered as quietly as Dudley had asked his question.
Not only were they focused on healing Harry but also focused on their strong desire for pain relief. All through and intertwined the love of and for family was strong, deep and eternal. Hermione desperately wanted her best friend, her cousin back and well so that they could work on the family ties aspect of their lives and be stronger for it. Petunia and Dudley also desperately wanted Harry back and well. Both wanted so much to get to repair their relationship with Harry and strengthen it. They were determined to give Harry the family he should have had, after the murder of his parents. There was so much to catch up on, so much to make up for, so much to get to know. And not just Harry but Hermione and her parents as well. They are after all the only blood family they have, that they know about. The three of them wanted and were going to do everything in their power to ensure that they remain close, strong and united.
They were so focused and lost in their thoughts, hopes and wants for the future that they were oblivious to a trembling going through the castle and gradually building in frequency. The trembling became a rumble throughout the castle and the grounds. And they did not notice that Harry's eyes had fluttered open and then closed after squinting from the bright light.
"I Harry James Potter acknowledge, accept and embrace Hermione Jean Granger, Dudley Evans, my cousins and Petunia Evans, my aunt with an open heart and open arms." Harry said very softly, raspy as he firmly squeezed Hermione and Dudley's hands.
Hermione, Dudley and Petunia were relived, astonished, delighted, surprised and were at a loss for words. They had heard Harry though he had said it so softly they could have missed it. Hermione and Dudley had an advantage of knowing what was going on with Harry since they had his hands in theirs. The four of them were very aware of the trembling and rumbling that was going on around and under them as well as the castle itself.
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Madam Pomfrey was awoken by the feeling of trembling and periodical tremors. She was still quite tired and would have just rolled over and went back to sleep but it was so bright that it was impossible to do so. Confused and a little angry at why there would be such a bright lite coming from the infirmary at that hour, she got up out of bed to investigate. The instant she opened her door she was somewhat blinded by the bright glow that met her eyes but she could still make out an Emerald, Amber and a shimmery Ruby red glow with a twisted or braided thread consisting of two Gold and one Silver threads with in, around and throughout the glow of color. As her eyes adjusted to the brightness she was in awe of what she was seeing. It was in its own way beautiful. Madam Pomfrey could feel the power, the love and the strength coming from this mass of magic in front of her at a distance. And then the realization hit her, what she was seeing was indeed coming from where Harry Potter resided on one of the many beds in the infirmary. Her jaw dropped. She did not know what to do. Should she retreat back into her quarters? Should she go check on the four of them to make sure that they were all alright? Before she could decide what she was going to do it became a lot brighter making it painful to keep watching, just simply closing her eyes did not help so she covered her eyes to block out the light.
Though she was covering her eyes she was still able to tell that it was bright and briefly became brighter before disappearing. Madam Pomfrey slowly removed her arms from covering her eyes and carefully opened her eyes. She blinked a few times and headed in the direction of Harry's bed.
When she was within hearing distance she could hear soft voices and knew that one of them belonged to Mr. Potter and quickly closed the distance between her and the curtain. Gently, Madam Pomfrey pulled the curtain open that surrounded Harry's bed and gasped when she saw that Harry was sitting up and very alert.
"Madam Pomfrey! I'm so sorry for not getting you…I was just so…"
"It's okay Miss. Granger. I must say that just a few moments ago it was rather bright in here."
"Oh. I would have warned you but I had no idea that it would have been so bright."
"I believe you. Now, I must chase you three off so that I can examine my patient. You will have plenty of time to talk to one another tomorrow."
Hermione, Dudley and Petunia nodded to Madam Pomfrey and then said a quick 'see you later' before leaving the infirmary. Dudley and Hermione headed to their respective houses, Petunia to Minerva's office.
Madam Pomfrey ran a diagnostics test on Harry and pulled a small amount of blood to check for any signs of the poison.
"Madam Pomfrey…"
"Sorry Mr. Potter but you will need to spend a few more days here. I can see that you are mostly healed but the potions we have you on I will not allow to be outside of this infirmary. The only way I can ensure that you get the rest you need is to keep you here for a few more days. Do not argue with me Mr. Potter, I will not change my mind. You were burned quite severely as well as poisoned."
"I was just going to ask you what my family did exactly."
"Oh, well…unfortunately I do not know. Miss. Granger would not tell anyone what she was intending to. The Headmaster knows of course."
"Poisoned? Wait…the poison from the Manticores imbedded into the fire…"
"Yes Mr. Potter you are correct."
"Madam Pomfrey…"
"Yes?"
"Would I be able to have something to eat? I don't know how long it has been since I last had anything to eat. No matter how much I tried to get Hermione, Dudley and my aunt Petunia to tell me they wouldn't even hint at how long I Have been here."
"It has been a little more than two days, its two o'clock Monday morning. I will return with something for you to consume. You have been out all this time and I do not feel that a lot of solid food will do you any good for the first time eating since…hmmm…breakfast Friday morning. Miss. Granger mentioned to me that you hardly ate anything if anything at all for lunch on Friday."
"I feel like I have missed out on weeks or months. I will gladly accept whatever you give me. I am sure though that I will protest and or complain some and I know that it will not do me any good to do so. Then again with how long it has been anything will be greatly accepted."
Madam Pomfrey gave Harry a smirk before leaving the curtained area of Harry's bed. Madam Pomfrey had not been gone long and was already back with some soup and toast.
"I know it is not much but…"
"I probably won't be able to eat much but to be on the safe side, small portions it is." Harry said softly with a smile before consuming the first of anything in approximately two and half days.
Madam Pomfrey silently watched Harry as he ate. Once he was finished eating Madam Pomfrey, with a quick flick of her wand hand vanished the bowl. She remained silent as she surveyed her patient.
"Madam Pomfrey?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter?"
"Is there something wrong?"
"No dear, nothing is wrong. I have ran every diagnostic test there is and the results are the same, all the results give you a clean bill of health. Well, compared to what the results were when you were first brought in. There's no trace amount of any kind of the poison and your burns are nearly healed. Your friend, she is quite…"
"Cousin."
"Cousin?"
"Hermione is my cousin."
"Miss. Granger is your cousin?" Madam Pomfrey asked to be sure she had heard him correctly and she was quite shocked.
"Yes. We only found fairly recently…"
"But…"
"I do not know why…wait…in the family blood line… two Squibs were born and they produced magical heirs…but…"
"There lies the problem with Ministry Mr. Potter."
"Those at the Ministry not doing their job properly by not keeping the Detection of new witches and wizards updated and strengthened."
"Exactly. The other Wizarding Schools are at capacity at all times as more and more are detected. I have a feeling that next year we will have no choice but attempt to handle some of the overflow. As the Ministry strengthens and updates the Detection more are…well, being detected. As it is the older students, sixth and seventh years are given the choice to be at School or study by owl post. Not many of them are opting for study by owl post, some because of Quidditch. The rest have a variety of reasons for not wanting to study by owl post. I can't blame them for that."
"They can't offer that to new students because they need the school just as much if not more than the rest of us."
"You are quite correct in that Mr. Potter. We would have been accepting some of the overflow this year but the Headmaster managed to convince the Ministry to hold off a little longer. It wasn't difficult to convince the Ministry to hold off a little longer considering what is happening here this year."
"What…"
"Oh, dear…I think it to be best to wait for the Headmaster to tell you about that. Now, Mr. Potter you need to rest."
"I feel fine though. Do I have to remain here?"
"Yes, Mr. Potter."
"How much longer will I have to remain here in the infirmary?"
"A few more days Mr. Potter. I will insist that you not attend classes for a few weeks after that."
"Why?"
"You are going to need to get your strength back Mr. Potter, you are really going to need it this year." Madam Pomfrey said just before she left Harry's bedside.
Harry relaxed and wondered what was going on. It was quite frustrating, he felt that deep down within himself he knew what was going on this year but just couldn't remember.
Harry did not know how much time had passed since Madam Pomfrey had left but was sure it was nearing breakfast time for the school. The silence surrounding him was disturbed by the creaking of the doors to the infirmary. Harry remained where he was and completely quite aside from the sounds of breathing. He was able to listen to a soft conversation.
"Albus this is going to cause quite a stir in the Wizarding world."
"I know Severus but if it is truly a proven fact, a proven incident…"
"How can we be so sure that Rita Skeeter isn't fabricating this?"
"I do not believe that, that is the case Severus. However this came to light it seems to me that the individual has nothing to gain from this other than having the courage and the strength to tell the truth."
"It just doesn't make sense Albus, if the Minister had performed a memory charm on Mr. Potter and his Godfather how in the name of Merlin do they remember?"
"I have a suspicion Severus, but it is not for me to say. Although, Severus you know as well as I do that it is possible for one to remember things after having a memory charm performed on them."
"Yes I do know that Albus, but it would take an extremely skilled Medi-Witch or Wizard to undo a memory charm. Even a simple one that was not very powerful. If the Minister indeed performed a memory charm on the two…according to the story in the Daily Prophet this morning the only witness is the one that is coming forward…"
"That we know of. There could have been other witnesses there that are too frightened to come forward. Of course this witness that has come forward could very well be the only one."
"It still raises the question how do they remember? Even if this witness contacted them with proof through a Pensive, how could this person convince them to watch the memory of the incident?"
"It is possible that they remembered the incident on their own Severus. Though yes, quite rare but it has happened. The Minister would have been under quite a bit of stress. If he were to have been caught by security at Gringotts, the magic required to cast a strong memory charm would not have been there."
"But why hasn't either of them come forward? Why is it that it is a witness?"
"They may not have known that there was a witness to back up their allegation against the Minster. The fact that they remember it is enough and if the Minister knows that they remember…just think that over Severus."
Before Severus could comment Madam Pomfrey bustled out of her office.
"Ah, Albus, Severus you got my message."
"Yes we did Poppy. Is Harry alright?"
"That he is Albus. I'd say more than alright actually. None of the poison remains but the burns have not quite healed completely and I am keeping him here until the burns have healed."
"What Miss. Granger had in mind worked? How? What did she do?"
"Severus give Poppy a chance to tell us."
"Yes, what Miss. Granger had in mind worked and quite well I might add. As to how and what exactly she did I am not certain. I have never seen such a thing before. I cannot explain it though. I do, however, have a pensive set up with what I saw for the two of you to view. I must say that though I did not see what was happening…oh just view my memory. It is quite extraordinary, the magic you will be able to see. The magic that was in the air was just…"
"Just what?"
"I have no words to explain the magic I felt. It was strong, the air was quite warm. It was as though it represented safety and or protection. Albus, did you know that Miss. Granger and Mr. Potter are cousins?"
"What are you talking about Poppy?" Albus asked intrigued.
"Poppy, did Mr. Potter tell you this or did Miss. Granger?" Severus inquired.
"Severus…"
"Mr. Potter told me, why do you ask?" Madam Pomfrey replied cutting off the Headmaster.
"Miss. Granger though I am sure it was not intentional on her part but she told me that they are cousins." Severus answered.
"We are cousins. We discovered it as I was looking into other inheritances that may have been out there aside from my inheritance from my father's side."
"Mr. Potter you are supposed to be resting." Madam Pomfrey scolded.
"I know and I am trying. I can't seem to though. It does not have to do with all of you talking."
"Harry, are you saying that Hermione is your cousin on your mother's side?"
"That is exactly what I am saying Professor Dumbledore. My mother was not a Muggle born, not technically any way. Not that I am completely ready or comfortable revealing this but it I think it is the only way that you'll understand."
"Mr. Potter what are you getting at?"
"First of all, Professor Snape, what do any of you know of the story surrounding Morgan le Fay and Merlin?"
"What does that have to do with this?"
"Everything. Do any of you know…"
"Yes we are all familiar with Morgan le Fay's and Merlin's story."
"The Evans blood line is also the Granger blood line. I know that sounds odd but please let me explain."
"Only if you get back in that bed Mr. Potter."
"Fair enough Madam Pomfrey." Harry said as he turned around and climbed back in bed.
"Now, Mr. Potter, how is it that the blood lines are the same one?"
"Keep in mind that this is after Morgan cast the curse on herself. According to the Family Tree Tapestry Morgan le Fay and her husband Patrick Evans' son Joseph and his wife had only one son, Christopher Evans who married Leti Dagworth-Granger. They had twin boys, Lucas and Grant. Lucas and Grant had a huge argument or disagreement and went separate ways. Grant kept the last name of Evans and left England; Lucas remained in England and changed his last name, taking the Granger part of his mother's name. I know sounds crazy but it is true. After seeing the Family Tree tapestries, one in the Evans Estate and the other in the Granger Estate…the proof is there. It's undeniable when getting through the gates and then confirmed when you see the Family Tree Tapestries."
"That's quite fascinating Harry." Dumbledore commented.
"This 'Leti Dagworth-Granger' is she related to Hector Dagworth-Granger who founded the Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers?" Severus asked quite curiously.
"There was a notation next to Leti's name, as I recall it said that she was the daughter of Hector Dagworth-Granger."
"Miss. Granger found a way to tap into the magical blood-line…" Professor Dumbledore muttered aloud.
"Mr. Potter you said that it had everything to do with Morgan and Merlin, how does Merlin fit into all of this?" Asked Madam Pomfrey.
"According to another Family Tree Tapestry, Merlin's Granddaughter Jessica Peverell married Henry Potter, their second child Harrison Potter and his wife Elizabeth were the proud parents of my father."
"So, two witches and two wizards decedents of Morgan le Fay plus one a descendent of Merlin…that must have been…Poppy the Pensive is where?" Professor Dumbledore rattled out.
"In my office Albus."
"I wish to view what you saw earlier this morning."
"Right this way."
Dumbledore and Snape followed Madam Pomfrey to her office, leaving Harry wondering what they all thought. Dumbledore seemed to find it all fascinating. Madam Pomfrey was definitely in some kind of shock. The one Harry was really wondering about most was Professor Snape, the one that it is impossible to read.
"Albus if Mr. Potter is indeed a descendent of Merlin and Morgan le Fay then why are we doing all that we can to protect him and get him ready for finally ridding the Wizarding and Muggle worlds of the Dark Lord? Clearly Mr. Potter…"
"Severus, Harry still needs protection and help getting ready for the final battle. He has not known about his ancestry for long and has not intentionally tapped into that magic, that power. Harry has only had strong desires to protect or heal, he has not set out to do any of that with intention. In other words Harry has experienced bursts of this magic."
"And how are we supposed to help Mr. Potter control this magic, this power?"
"For starters I believe it would be imperative to find out how Hermione Granger managed to do it. With time I am sure that if we researched Morgan le Fay and Merlin we might find something to help us help Harry."
"Albus, most of what is out there is mythical. It would be difficult to know what is fact and what is rumor or myth. The time it would involve to go through it all…how would or could we find the time?"
"Well so far quite a bit of the myths out there are indeed actually fact and you know it Severus. I am sure we would do just fine sorting it out. As far as time goes, well we will have to find the time to work on this."
"Where?"
"During vacations for example Severus. I know we all do quite a bit to prepare and get ready for a new year, for a new term. It shouldn't be too much trouble since the curriculum is the same each year, it never changes…"
"I recall you arranging a meeting with the entire staff about changing that. You said that there are some that need a little extra attention, there are some that are quite advanced and the rest are in the middle."
"Helping Harry…"
"Do not tell me that helping Harry is more important than the rest of the students. Neither situation is more important than the other, both situations are equally important and you know it."
"Severus, Albus would the two of quite your debate and focus on why you are in My office."
"Sorry Poppy." Dumbledore said sincerely.
Severus gave a nod or sorts. It was difficult to tell if he had or not.
Once Poppy set her Pensive on her desk she stepped out of the way and gestured to both wizards to view the memory.
Dumbledore smiled, his eyes twinkling more annoyingly then usual and approached the desk excitedly. Severus was scowling and reluctantly joined Dumbledore by the desk. Dumbledore dipped his head in the swirly contents of the Pensive first. Severus soon followed Dumbledore.
Poppy waited somewhat anxiously to see the two wizards after they had seen through her memory of what she saw so early in the morning. She was also what their reactions to it would be. Suddenly the two wizards were standing before her.
Both wizards stood there shocked and stunned by what they saw in the Pensive. Neither could formulate anything coherent so said nothing. They were still comprehending what they had seen. As the minutes ticked by they seemed to be accepting what they had seen.
"I have never seen such a spectacular occurrence. It was obviously quite a magical power surge for sure. The light was quite bright and it seemed as though, Poppy, it was bordering if not a bit painful to see. I wonder what it was like for Hermione, Dudley and Petunia they were in the thick of it. The rumbling of the castle is understandable now that I have seen the memory. I must find out more about this form of magic if only I knew what kind it is."
"Blood magic or Family magic is the type or kind of magic that Miss. Granger tapped into and used…"
"What do you know about it, Severus?" Dumbledore asked with his eyes twinkling like Muggle Christmas decorations.
"Not much just that it exists, it is rare and all those involved have to be related by blood for it to work. I wouldn't even know where to find anything…Miss. Granger retrieved a book from…" Severus trailed off.
"Poppy would it be alright if Severus and I speak with Harry again, just briefly."
"That will be fine, but it had better be briefly Albus. Mr. Potter needs to rest and it is about time that he consumes more food."
Dumbledore gave Madam Pomfrey a nod of agreement before walking out of her office. Severus followed Dumbledore with his robes billowing out behind him.
"Harry how are you feeling?" Dumbledore asked sincerely.
"A little tired, hungry and really do not want to be in the infirmary. Mostly I do not want to be in the infirmary."
"Do have any idea as to what Hermione did with Dudley and Petunia?"
"No I don't. Before I could ask Madam Pomfrey came over and ushered them out kindly. I could hear everything they said though. I heard everything that had been said when within ear range the whole time, though I had no idea how much time had passed at the time. It was really bright though and I couldn't keep my eyes open. I know what she explained to Dudley and my Aunt Petunia though I am not sure what she was referencing though. It was some Muggle movie I think. But what did she do?"
"We believe that Miss. Granger used a rare form of blood magic or family magic as some call it." Snape said in matter of fact type of tone.
"Blood magic? You let her…"
"Relax Mr. Potter. I had a feeling that your cousin was thinking of using this form of blood magic. The form Miss. Granger used requires for all parties involved being blood related, genetically blood related for it to work." Snape said in his classroom lecture voice.
"Hermione talked it over with me…my apologies Harry…I am sure you heard it all. This is not going to come across well but we are just as in need of knowledge of this blood magic as you are. I give you my word Harry, this weekend we will be discussing what happened this morning."
"Will Hermione be there?"
"It would be a waste of time to not have Hermione present. She is probably the most knowledgeable of what happened or what was behind what happened this morning. And yes Harry I feel you should be present as well. You have just as much if not even more of a need to know what happened."
"Albus I think that the article from earlier…"
"Ah, yes Severus the article in the Daily Prophet. I agree that should be discussed as well."
"Another thing, Albus…the cham…"
"I think that he would react better if he hears about that from his friends."
"You have taken up enough of my patients' time. Out, the both of you. NOW! Mr. Potter needs his rest." Madam Pomfrey barked out.
Harry would have protested a little but thought better of it with how Madam Pomfrey looked, she looked rather scary.
Albus and Severus left the infirmary. Both wizards then realized that they had missed breakfast and it was time for classes to start. Dumbledore could easily grab a bite to eat since he had no classes to teach. Severus on the other hand could not stop and get something to eat at least not before lunch and menacingly headed to his classroom. This was quite unfortunate for the students.
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Hermione groggily headed down to the Great Hall for breakfast with Ron and the rest of her year from Gryffindor.
As Hermione attempted to sit at the table she nearly fell over and would have face planted into the floor. She shook her head and started to fill her plate. Several times Hermione nodded off to sleep only to be woken seconds later by Ron. After the umpteenth time Ron had, had enough of this.
"Hermione, why are you so stubborn this morning? You should really go back to bed or go see Madam Pomfrey."
"No Ron. I'm fine, just a little tired is all."
"Yeah that's why you should go back to bed or go see Madam Pomfrey."
"I'm fine Ron. I'm not going back to bed and I'm not going to see Madam Pomfrey."
"Hermione it's not the end of the world if you miss a day of classes, or half a day of classes. You're too tired anyway. You can't seriously believe that you can be on form in classes. Don't even say anything about that you can. Seriously, Hermione you can barely stay awake long enough to eat breakfast."
"I'll be fine. Don't worry so much about me."
"I'll worry about you as much as I dam well feel like worrying about you. It's obvious that you are trying to convince yourself that you are fi…that you are alright because I'm not convinced. And for the record no one is convinced of that. You are having serious difficulties trying to stay awake as it is and it's quite noisy in here. Classes are practically silent save for lectures, questions, answers to questions, quills scratching on parchment and then of course potions…sure the quite noises there are constant but not in a way that will keep you awake. Please Hermione…"
"Ron…"
"I will give you some slack since you are so tired…I worry about you because I care! I realize that I do contradict myself at times…all the time but I do care. The question is though, why are you so tired?"
"I didn't get to bed until around two o'clock."
"Why?"
"Because, Harry's cousin and Aunt helped me last night or rather early this morning with something."
"Like what?"
"Harry. Oh…"
"Hermione…"
"I had an idea of how to help out Harry with his injuries…it worked Ron. I did it. I'm not sure how much I did but…he came out of the coma that Madam Pomfrey had him in…he should have still been out...Madam Pomfrey didn't bring him out of it and she should have had to…we were shooed out…"
"What did you do?"
"Well, little brother you will have to wait for that answer. You need to get going. You have potions first thing right? Well, I do not suggest being late today. You'd be better off just flaking. I bet Snape is in a right foul mood today…since you didn't notice, he was not here at all during breakfast. Although Hermione I agree with Ron, you should either go back to bed or go see Madam Pomfrey. I won't be surprised if he gives you hell just for being tired even if he does know what you did last night." said Fred and George.
Ron immediately took off for class in a dead run. Hermione surprisingly made it to the Potions classroom and to her seat without being late. Most of the class thought that Hermione had lost her mind for showing up to class as tired as she was.
"Hermione…"
"Ron…"
"Hold on would you. With Snape not being there at breakfast and Dumbledore not there you don't think that it has or had to do with Harry, do you?"
"Ron…no…I don't think that it has to do with Harry…at least not in a bad way."
"But…" Ron stopped speaking as the door to the Potions classroom slammed shut.
Snape marched through the classroom to his desk with his robes billowing out behind him in a menacing manor. The whole class was scared to breath but relieved that they already had their books out and whatever else they would need for the lecture.
Hermione was moving about a bit slowly. She was trying her hardest to quickly be ready. As her Professor entered the classroom she could feel the agitation engulf the room and the closer he came to her the more she could feel the agitation. Once he reached his desk Hermione started wondering if she should have listened to Ron. She began to think that Professor Snape's bad mood was her fault and that maybe she should not have woken him up from the horrid position he was in while sleeping in the armchair in his private quarters.
"It seems some of us are having a slow start this morning. Maybe you should not have come to class Miss. Granger. Since you have then maybe you could at least be prepared for class. Or, even had gone to bed at a decent hour." Snape growled out as he walked around his desk and stood in front of Hermione.
"Sorry…wait…whatever the reason you are in such a foul mood do not take it out on me. You bloody well know why I am tired, sir." Hermione spat back.
"Miss. Granger you will do well to hold your tongue."
"You went off on me, sir. Maybe if you had gotten a decent amount of sleep you wouldn't be taking it out on your students. I wouldn't be surprised if you slept wrong or…"
"Fifty points from Gryffindor for disrespect, detention for a week and get out of my class Miss. Granger."
"Piss off you git. I did nothing to you. Why do you always give me so much grief? Never mind you'd just get off on putting me down even more. I am tired yes, but you know damn well why and yet…screw this…I'd rather be anywhere but here. You are such an arrogant git! Just because something happened that didn't go your way does not mean that you can attack students like this." Hermione fumed as she roughly put her things back in her bag before leaving with a slam of the door more forceful than Professor Snape had ever done.
Professor Snape slightly flinched from the door being slammed shut so forcefully. No one in the class noticed this though. Professor Snape looked at the rest of the students with a deadly glare. He walked back to his desk and with a wave of his wand he sent the students their results of the previous week's potion they had begun.
"Some of you will start over on his or her potion from last week, some of you will finish what you started, the rest of you will begin reading the next chapter and start the essay that will need to be turned in by next class. For those that are starting over or finishing their potion…once you have finished and turned in your sample you are to start reading the next chapter and if you have the time you will start your essay. Begin." Snape said gravely.
As the students started working Snape sat down in the chair at his desk. There was a deadly scowl on his face. Snape sat there thinking about what had happened. He knew he had been in the wrong, he knew it a split second before Hermione had snapped at him. He knew he should have let it go and requested that she speak with him in the hall or after class. Since he had not done that, he knew that he should have gone after her. He felt horrible. He knew damn well why she was so tired and why she had not had enough sleep and wondered why she had attempted to show up to class after what she had been through. He was not blaming Hermione for what had happened because she should have skived off that day. The more Snape thought about it the worse he felt. It was obvious that she was physically exhausted and he knew she was going to be physically exhausted at just attempting to help her friend…cousin. Viewing the memory of what Madam Pomfrey had seen, after the dazzling light show for a brief moment Hermione, Dudley and Petunia could be seen and all three of them looked physically exhausted.
As a few students turned in his or sample it hit Severus and it hit him hard. He nearly gasped and barked out that class was dismissed. It dawned on Severus that with Hermione succeeding with the help of two others not only were they physically exhausted but they had to have been magically exhausted as well. This realization made him feel worse than he had ever had and that was saying a lot. He was lost in thought and did not realize that class was over and that the students were packing up and leaving. He wasn't even aware of the next class entering the class and taking their seats. It wasn't until Dumbledore entered and spoke.
"Professor Snape I need a word with you."
Snape did not question the Headmaster not with the harsh tone that was underlying in the calmness of the Headmaster's voice. Snape nodded, stood and headed towards the door. He looked over his shoulder, pointed his wand at the board on the wall behind his desk instructions appeared on the board.
"Your instructions are on the board. Begin and be quiet. I do not want to hear any needless chatter on anything." Snape said firmly and walked out of the door closing it behind him.
"Severus it is actually going to be a while. You might want to have your students copy down their instructions and dismiss them to their common rooms. After the last student has left you are to meet me and a few others in the infirmary."
Severus nodded showing no emotion of any kind though he was quite fearful of what was going to happen. He knew he had been in the wrong but at this moment he knew he went too far and crossed a line. He began to feel even worse than had moments ago, though he did wonder if what had happened earlier would cost him his job it did not bother him. He was more concerned about Hermione Granger. Severus knew it was bad otherwise the Headmaster would not be telling him to dismiss his class and to then meet in the infirmary. For a brief moment he wondered why he was to meet Dumbledore there and then he winced. He knew Hermione was there and feared how she was and it was his fault. Severus had no clue as to how to fix this and nervously headed to the infirmary once all students had left the class.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Hermione stopped in a bathroom on the way to the infirmary to calm down or to at least try to. She dropped her book bag down on the floor and splashed cool water on her face. She grabbed a towel and blotted her face dry. She could not hold on to the towel and it fluttered to the floor as tears welled up in her eyes and fell freely down her face. Within seconds Hermione was crying, crying hard. Her whole body trembled. She could not figure out why he would be like that towards her. He knew she, Dudley and Petunia had been attempting to heal Harry. Snape had even complimented her, he had even given her encouragement and tried to keep her from beating herself up if she did not succeed in her attempt and most of all he had confidence in her, hell he had faith in her when she was uncertain. It was in part because of her Potions Professor why she was able to go through with it. She could not figure out how he could have gone from a concerned person to an evil bastard so quickly. Hermione wondered how waking him up could result in him being so cruel.
"Not that it matters. Whatever the reason for his mood he did not have to do that. It was not fair. He knows damn well why I am so tried, why I did not get much sleep last night. It's not like I'm always tired or unprepared." Hermione softly sobbed into her hands.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"What in the name of Merlin is going on?" Harry asked worried.
"That, Mr. Potter is a good idea. I fear though that it was Professor Snape."
"I wonder how the student is doing. Wait, I would be in the class…who was the student and is he or she alright?"
"You stay right where you are young man. I will be right back." Madam Pomfrey said as she quickly left the infirmary.
Madam Pomfrey had not heard footsteps go by so it could only mean that whoever the student that was on the receiving end of Snape's fury would most likely be in the bathroom not far from there.
As the school nurse reached the bathroom she could distinctly hear someone sobbing on the other side of the door. Madam Pomfrey cautiously entered the bathroom hoping that she did not startle the girl. Madam Pomfrey let out a soft gasp as her eyes fell on an extremely distraught Hermione Granger.
"Miss. Granger, dear are you alright? What happened?"
"Professor Snape is a horrible person. What has everyone been thinking letting him teach students? I hate him. I really hate him. Last night…I…you were there and heard what he said…he was cruel. Please, I beg of you let me go back to the miserable class and hex his bullocks…"
"Miss. Granger!" Madam Pomfrey said in a quite high pitched voice.
"What? He deserves much worse."
"Come with me. You need a calming draught and a mighty strong one at that."
"I don't understand what I did. All I can think of is when I returned with the book. I know I didn't get permission but…I returned through his floo connection…he was asleep in an armchair and I just thought that I'd do something nice and wake him so he wouldn't have stiff joints and be a right bastard. Apparently I was wrong…"
"Now, now, calm down dear. I assure you his foul mood has nothing to do with you. He gets quite…he becomes quite the bastard when he doesn't eat."
"He…because he missed breakfast! That just makes it worse…he had no right to take it out on me…it's not my fault that he missed breakfast."
Madam Pomfrey had a few things that she would like to say to the hysterical girl but though better of it. Madam Pomfrey felt that not talking about the Potions Professor and taking Hermione's mind of the matter would do the girl better. As Madam Pomfrey escorted Hermione into the infirmary she shot a look at Harry that clearly said that if he said anything or asked anything of the girl that he wouldn't see anything outside of the infirmary for a month or more if not until Christmas or so Harry took the look to mean.
Harry watched Madam Pomfrey lead Hermione to a bed across from his and then pull the curtain closed. Harry was worried about Hermione and wanted to know what exactly had happened but remained where he was. He did not want to piss off the school nurse.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Madam Pomfrey helped Hermione up onto the bed and then summoned a Calming Draught. It was just a small vial and not that strong but it would work to calm the girl down enough for Madam Pomfrey to perform a diagnostic spell. There had to be more ailing the witch than being a hysterical mess and obviously tired. Madam Pomfrey felt bad since she should have known better than to have shooed them out earlier without performing a diagnostic spell on them. After performing the spell now on Hermione it revealed that not only was the young witch physically exhausted but she was also severely magically exhausted.
"Miss. Granger I will be giving you a full dose of a much stronger Calming Draught shortly but first I was wondering if you could tell me what happened?" Madam Pomfrey asked as soothingly as she could.
Hermione took a few shaky breaths and then told the nurse what had happened in the class between herself and her Professor. Though Hermione's voice was slightly choked and cracked occasionally with light sobbing periodically, Madam Pomfrey was able to understand what had been said.
"I will be right back with the Calming Draught dear. It will be alright. I am sure that Professor Snape has realized what an arse he was to you."
"I doubt that, the git has no heart." Hermione said softly as the nurse left to get the Calming Draught.
Madam Pomfrey cringed at what Hermione had last said. The nurse could understand the witch's point of view at the moment but it was a rather harsh thing to say.
"Severus Snape without food is a right bastard. Miss. Granger without proper sleep and doubly exhausted makes for a defensive, argumentative and cranky powerful witch. The worst combination to have. This can never happen again. The students need to have a proper amount of sleep and Severus Snape can never go without food again. Unfortunately, I must contact Albus and inform him of what has happened and of Miss. Granger's current condition as well as to have Mr. Evans and his mother looked in on at least." Madam Pomfrey thought as she prepared the Calming Draught for Hermione.
Madam Pomfrey jumped and gave a small scream as she was about to bring the Calming Draught to the witch.
"Sorry, Poppy I did not mean to give you a fright. I know it has not been all that long since I was there, but how is Harry doing?"
"Albus! There has to be a full floo connection to the infirmary. This little conference type thing is not acceptable. As for Mr. Potter there has been no change. Yes he improves gradually as time passes and the more food he has. Although now he is I am sure engulfed with concern for his cousin, Miss. Granger. Speaking of Miss. Granger I really need to get the poor dear this Calming Draught. I will return and don't you dare go anywhere."
"Do I detect a rather strong Calming Draught?"
"Yes you do. I will return and explain."
It was not long until Madam Pomfrey returned.
"Poppy why is Miss. Granger in the infirmary? And why does she need such a strong Calming Draught?"
"Maybe you should come down to the infirmary. It would be more comfortable for you."
"Just tell me Poppy."
Madam Pomfrey gave a huff, sat down in her chair and explained from the beginning and then what she had discovered about Hermione and her concerns for Dudley and Petunia.
"I will be down shortly. You were right. I should have come down to the infirmary. I will have someone collect and bring Dudley Evans to you and send word to Sirius and Marie to go check on Petunia. Also I will be stopping off by Minerva's classroom and sending her down after informing her. She is Hermione's head of house after all. I will have one more stop before I arrive in the infirmary. I will be telling Severus that he is to give his students their assignment, dismiss the class and come to the infirmary to discuss the situation." Dumbledore said before disappearing from Poppy's sight.
Madam Pomfrey winced at hearing that Minerva will be informed and sent to the infirmary. She sighed deeply and left her office to check on her patients. It felt to Madam Pomfrey that half the day had passed by, but it had only been several minutes. She first checked on Harry and brought him something a little more solid to eat including some chocolate.
"How is Hermione?"
"Not good but not all that bad either."
"Obviously she's not doing all that good after the blow up between her and Professor Snape. I admit to having trouble with how…with what he had said to her but she didn't help much though."
"Yes well Severus should have kept his bloody mouth shut. Knowing that she was going to attempt something so rare, I mean we were just talking about it. What I am more concerned about is the exhaustion she is dealing with. I'm not just talking about physical exhaustion…"
"Magical exhaustion?"
"Severe magical exhaustion to be exact Mr. Potter and I am concerned about your aunt and other cousin. I should not have shooed them out before checking them over."
"What's going to happen? I mean about what happened between Hermione and Professor Snape?"
"That will be up to the Headmaster, Mr. Potter. Yes I informed him of what Miss. Granger had told me. Don't look at me like that, I had to inform him. Your other family members are going to be checked on. Mr. Evans will be brought here shortly and your Godfather is to be going to check on your aunt."
"Is Professor Dumbledore going to be coming down here?"
"Eventually."
"What? What is it?"
"The Headmaster will be first stopping by and sending Professor McGonagall down here before informing Professor Snape that he is to meet the Headmaster here in the infirmary."
"Oh this isn't going to be good. Madam Pomfrey, if you can could you please do you best to keep Professor McGonagall from murdering Professor Snape?"
"I will try Mr. Potter. I give you my word as a medi-witch that I will do my best if it is necessary."
"Oh I am sure that it will be necessary Madam Pomfrey. Professor McGonagall is going to be livid."
"You have a point Mr. Potter. No matter what though, I do not want you to involve yourself in anything outside of where you are and trying to rest. Some sleep would do you some good."
"Sleep? You want me to sleep? After the magical coma I was in."
"Mr. Potter…"
"I will do my best to rest. I can't promise that I won't stay out of it. If I feel the need to…I can't just…"
"I understand Mr. Potter. I really do, but you must rest."
"Okay, okay. Oh, um…when Professor McGonagall gets here you might want to give her a Calming Draught. In fact it might be a good idea to give Hermione some more. I mean with the exhaustion, physical and magical…the calmer she is the better, right?"
"Good point." Madam Pomfrey said with a frown on her face.
"Madam Pomfrey before you check on Hermione…I was wondering if I would be able to talk with her? Or just sit with her for a while? Of course not right now but later maybe."
"We'll see. It depends on what you do or don't do between now and then."
"Thank you."
Madam Pomfrey gave Harry a kind nod before going to check on Hermione.
"How are you feeling dear?"
"Tired."
"Well I am not surprised Miss. Granger. You are physically exhausted and severely magically exhausted."
"Dudley, Petunia. How are they?"
"I do not know but the Headmaster is having someone collect Mr. Evans and bring him here so I can perform a diagnostic spell…something I should have done instead of showing you all out. The Headmaster is also having Sirius Black check on Miss. Evans."
"Oh, good. I hope that they are alright. I didn't know…I just…"
"Miss. Granger stop worrying yourself. No one could have known what it would have done to you or the other two. Something as rare as what you did…we will know more in time I am sure. We need to know more so that we are not in the dark later on. Hopefully we will not be in need of it but it will be good to be prepared anyway. Now take this."
"More Calming Draught? I feel fine though, other than tired. Why do I need…oh no. What's happening to…"
"I do not know right now. Professor McGonagall should be here soon…"
"Poppy? Poppy, where…how…"
"Calm down Minerva."
"Don't tell me to calm down!"
"Professor McGonagall I'm fine, just tired and well exhausted."
"Exhausted…well…"
"Minerva, do know what happened earlier this morning?"
"Albus told me everything that he knows so far."
"Well, Miss. Granger is physically exhausted and severely magically exhausted. She needs rest and most importantly she needs calmness around her."
"That…"
"Minerva! I did not think to do a diagnostic spell on the three…I just shooed them out. I should have done it though and this would have been avoided. No I am not excusing what Severus did…but…"
"Ah, Minerva you're here."
"Where is he, Albus?"
"Severus will be here shortly. I ask of you to please calm down. It will not do anyone any good to further what happened this morning in the Potions classroom."
"Don't you tell me to calm down! He went too Albus…Severus knew…" Minerva was unable to finish what she was saying or at least not coherently, instead a choking, gurgling sound could be heard since Madam Pomfrey quickly emptied a small vial of a really strong Calming Draught, stronger than the one she had given Hermione.
"You wanted me to…" Severus trailed off as he watched Minerva step out from behind a closed curtain and swore to himself.
"YOU! HOW COULD YOU?" Minerva bellowed nearly launching herself at Severus.
"What are you talking about, Minerva?" Severus asked calmly.
"Your behavior this morning."
"Concerning Miss. Granger?"
"What else would I be talking about?"
"Several things, Minerva."
"Severus you have gone too far…"
"Do not forget that there are patients here in the infirmary." Madam Pomfrey said firmly cutting off Minerva.
"Let's all be and remain calm."
"Albus…"
"Minerva we are in the infirmary and there are patients here…"
"And, he put one of them in here."
"Pardon?" Severus asked as his heart stumbled.
"You heard me Severus."
"Minerva that is not true."
"Poppy…how can you say that?"
"I believe that I have already explained that Miss. Granger is physically and severely magically exhausted Minerva. Miss. Granger would have ended up here anyway. Mr. Potter and I heard yelling, I was able to pick out Severus' voice but not what was being said and I was not able to identify the other voice. Since I did not hear anyone running past I went looking. I knew that the student must have slipped into one of the bathrooms between here and the Potions classroom. I was aware of a student crying in the girls bathroom so I entered cautiously and discovered Miss. Granger. She was quite upset. Once she was calm enough she explained what had happened. I am sure that you do not know what exactly happened. The bottom line Minerva is that a hungry Severus and a tired and exhausted Miss. Granger should not be within any proximity of each other."
"But…"
"Are the three of you going to go on like this the whole time or am I allowed to speak?" Severus asked and then began to choke.
Severus spat out whatever Dumbledore had flicked into his mouth.
"Bloody hell Albus! And please keep your disgusting lemon-drops to yourself."
"Here, is this better?" Poppy asked as she shoved a chunk of chocolate into Severus' mouth.
"Not really, but I will admit that taste wise…much better."
"I don't give a damn what the circumstances are…"
"Minerva the circumstances have to be taken into account."
"Albus, this is not the first time…"
"Now wait one second Minerva! I admit that I am harsh, quite harsh but before this morning I have never…"
"And that is why the circumstance have to be taken into account. Not that I need to say it but I have to…what occurred between you and Hermione this morning was inappropriate. I realize that you missed breakfast but you must find a way to contain your anger and keep from lashing out…"
"I know Albus. Believe me I know."
"What do you know, you buffoon?" Minerva asked fiercely.
"I know I acted inappropriate. I went too far. I know I should not have taken it out on Miss. Granger. Believe it or not but I do feel horrible about what happened. Knowing full well what she had been through merely hours before. I do not know why she was even in class…that has nothing to do with this. I…I have no explanation or excuse to try to give any of you."
"And how do you propose to correct your error?" Minerva spat out.
"That, Minerva I have been trying to figure out since Miss. Granger stormed out of my class this morning. Nothing…there is nothing I can think of that would be enough or that can undo what I did, what I said. Yes, I can apologize, I can reverse the points taken away and I can cancel the detention, but it will not be enough, it will not undo what I said, it will not make it better…"
"Ah, Severus, you are correct that it will not be enough or undo the damage done."
"Then by all means enlighten me as to what I can do. I haven't been able to come up with anything and it won't matter…it won't make a difference, there is nothing and no matter what I say or do it will not undo the damage…"
"True, Severus, but an apology is a start. I can see that you are truly regretful and repentant about this morning."
"Albus, you can't be serious! An apology. That's it?"
"No, Minerva that is not it. An apology is a start."
"Albus I understand…I will gather my things and be out of here…"
"Don't be ridiculous Severus, I am not sacking you over this. Miss. Granger has not requested or suggested that be the case. Granted she is wondering why you are allowed to teach and really wanted to return to the class and hex your…"
"Albus!"
"It's alright Poppy I am sure that I can figure out what Albus was about to say. I will do all three things…where is Miss. Granger? I would like to apologize to her, Minerva."
"What, right now? Severus you can't be serious. She's tired and exhausted. And by the looks of it the exhaustion might as well include emotional exhaustion. Miss. Granger deserves some rest…"
"Yes, right now and I am serious Minerva. I know she is tired and exhausted. I agree that Miss. Granger deserves some rest. I think it would be to her benefit that I apologize as soon as possible."
"Albus, Poppy…it would not favor Miss. Granger to be bothered by Severus right now."
"I didn't realize that apologizing to someone is a bother."
"Minerva…this is up to Poppy."
"I agree with Severus. The sooner the better, the more time that goes by without the apology will only result in Miss. Granger becoming more upset and angry if not furious. Although if she is asleep I will not allow anyone to disturb her."
"I'd be surprised if she is a sleep with how loud the four of you have been. I am sorry Madam Pomfrey but I can't sit back and listen to all of this anymore without saying something. I would like to note that I have not gotten out of my bed."
All but Minerva smiled or smirked, not that she really heard what Harry had said.
Madam Pomfrey led Severus over to where Hermione was. It appeared that she was indeed asleep.
"Poppy I would appreciate it if you let me know when she is awake so that I can apologize in person."
"Well, it is nearly lunch time. I suggest you have a large lunch and then stop back by and see if Miss. Granger is awake."
"Thank you Poppy. I apologize to the rest of you as well. I cannot express more clearly how horrible I feel about all of this. The fault is mine and mine alone."
"I will make sure that she knows how sincerely horrible and apologetic you are, sir."
"I would appreciate that Mr. Potter."
"I can hear the sincerity in your voice, sir. And for the record you are not completely at fault, I do not feel you are solely to blame for what happened. You both were irritable and it exploded but…"
"Thank you Mr. Potter. And you have no idea how much it means to hear you say that, being that you are her cousin."
"After having something to eat you'll feel better and more chocolate, sir."
"I doubt it, Mr. Potter." Severus said as he left the infirmary.
"What is this nonsense about Mr. Potter and Miss. Granger being cousins?"
"It's not nonsense Professor McGonagall. I would explain it to you but Madam Pomfrey would probably murder me. I am supposed to be resting if not sleeping."
"Would you be alright with if I were to explain it to Professor McGonagall?"
"That would be fine Professor Dumbledore."
