The atmosphere in Professor Trelawney's Divination class was unusually heavy, almost utterly silent.
Harry, in particular, had become someone everyone avoided ever since he had been told that a terribly ominous sign hung over him, one that might even mean life or death. Now everyone seemed afraid to so much as meet his eyes, and even Ron avoided his gaze.
"I think we shall end today's lesson here. Please gather your belongings," Professor Trelawney said in her usual vague tone.
The students silently returned their teacups to Professor Trelawney and packed away their books and belongings. A dull, oppressive atmosphere filled the classroom.
Professor Trelawney settled back into her rocking chair and watched the students file out, her voice sounding even more feeble. "Until we meet again, I wish you all good luck."
She suddenly pointed at Neville. "Oh, dear, you will be late for your next lesson, so you must try harder. And don't forget your homework!"
At her words, Neville quickened his pace as though he had been scalded and hurried out of the Divination Classroom. He was terrified that if he hesitated for even a moment, Professor Trelawney would say something else to send a chill down his spine.
"Hermione," Jerry called in a low, urgent voice. After climbing down Professor Trelawney's ladder to the Tower landing, he had watched everyone hurry away without a word and gently tugged Hermione's sleeve to stop her. "Go on ahead to Professor McGonagall's Transfiguration classroom! I'll be there soon!"
"Jerry, are you going back to see Professor Trelawney?" Hermione glanced at the ladder, which had not yet been drawn up. "Do you want me to come with you?"
"No need. I'll come find you in the Transfiguration classroom shortly!"
"All right, then!" Hermione took a deep breath. "I'll save you