Morning light carried a touch of warmth, dispelling the lingering chill from the night before. The simple breakfast Hermione had brought and the discussion gathered around the companions were like a shot of strength, not only improving Lynn's complexion but also temporarily driving away the shadow of fear hanging over everyone's hearts.
When Madam Pomfrey came in again to examine him, she saw that the pure silver glow from the Unicorn Hair bandage around Lynn's arm was stable, and that the skin around the wound had regained its healthy color. At last, she nodded in satisfaction. "You're recovering very well, Mr. Stone. The poison has basically been cleared, and there are no signs of damage to your Magic Circuit. We'll observe you for another half day. If your condition remains stable this afternoon, you may return to the tower to rest. But remember, you must not cast spells or strain that arm for a week!"
"Thank you, Madam," Lynn said with a nod.
"And thank you for your Dittany and prompt treatment, Miss Granger." Madam Pomfrey gave Hermione a rare, gentle smile as well.
Hermione hurriedly waved her hands, her cheeks slightly flushed. "It was what I should have done." Seeing the color return to Lynn's face, the stone in her heart finally fell away, replaced by overwhelming relief.
Seeing that Lynn was improving, Harry, Ron, and Ginny were greatly relieved as well. Carrying the new clues Ginny had uncovered—"The Heir's Glory" and "Clearing the Unworthy"—along with Harry's plan to have a "deep conversation" with Moaning Myrtle, they left first to continue their investigation.
The Hospital Wing fell quiet again, leaving only Lynn and Hermione, along with the occasional birdsong drifting past the window. The air was filled with the fresh scent of herbs and sunlight.
Hermione did not leave.