Dark Mark

Chapter 17


Hermione said her goodbyes, some tearful, some indifferent, some with gutwrenching sobs that could be heard the next corridor over. Professor McGonagall cried despite herself, hugging Hermione until the girl thought her back would snap in two.

"Now promise me you'll keep in touch, I'm only an Owl away," she insisted like a worried parent, her large eyes brimming with tears. "If you ever need to get away from that dreadful man, you contact me, I have relatives in Dovetown."

Hermione promised, making a mental note to herself to remember; information like that might just come in handy. One never knew when marrying a Deatheater, did one? She might be Owling McGonagall within the week, begging for sanctuary.

Ron gave her a stiff hug, quick and formal, never looking her in the eye. Harry's embrace was warmer, his eyes full of concern as he kissed her on the forehead and told her to write him. Hermione promised she would.

Dumbledore summoned her to his office as she was headed back to the Gryffindor common room. "I have a few details to discuss with you," he said in his usual slightly distracted tone, motioning for her to take a seat near Fawke's perch.

"Now, as you know, Miss Granger, Mister Crouch has undergone a very delicate procedure known as Cleansing."

Hermione nodded, not sure if she was expected to say anything in response.

"For a short time he will most likely suffer some disillusionment, some mental fatigue, as a result of the procedure. Don't be alarmed if he exhibits some negative emotions for a day or two, once the side effects set in. It will pass."

Hermione nodded again. "Yes, Sir."

Dumbledore continued, speaking almost absently as he thumbed through a stack of parchments, signing here, initialling there. "He will be required to visit the mental ward at Saint Mungo's for psychological testing within the week, and once every week thereon until he is declared completely stable by the psychiatric staff. So the two of you will out of necessity be required to remain nearby, so that Barty can make his appointments. I have here a document---" He held out a large piece of parchment full of tiny, elaborate handwriting---"that will secure you a residence in the village of Hogsmeade for the duration of his evaluation."

Hermione's heart leapt as she reached out and took the parchment, her hand shaking. They would be living in Hogsmeade, practically right next door! She would be able to keep in touch with everyone, and see her friends again once the weekend visits to the village resumed. Barely able to contain a broad smile, she practically jumped from her chair and grabbed Dumbledore's hand.

"Oh thank you Headmaster, thank you so much! I give you my word I'll make him keep all his appointments, we won't disappoint you. Hogsmeade! This is so wonderful!"

Dumbledore wasn't smiling. "I feel the need to remind you, Miss Granger, that this course of action is in fact a punishment. Your behavior, besides bordering on criminal activity, has broken such a number of school rules that it is impossible to overlook any of them. The custodial rights that have been given to Mister Crouch are tatamount to a marriage arrangement, and you will be expected to to uphold them."

Hermione's smile faded quickly; with a somber nod she quietly murmured "Yes, Headmaster."

Dumbledore sighed.

"You are hereby...expelled...from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."


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