Harry had been to the Ministry of Magic before and knew where the Department of Mysteries was.
He led everyone running through the hall, past the fountain and the wand-checking desk, through the golden grille gates toward the nearest lift.
With a clattering rattle, the lift plunged downward before coming to an abrupt stop.
An icy female voice announced, "Department of Mysteries."
The lift's grille gates slid gently open, and Harry led them into the corridor outside. All was quiet around them; only the nearest torches swayed in the draft stirred up by the lift.
Beyond the corridor, a completely black door appeared before them.
"All right, I think we should leave two people here to keep watch..." Harry took several deep breaths to steady his pounding heart.
"If anything unexpected happens, they can let us know immediately."
As Harry spoke, his eyes remained fixed on Ginny. An ominous feeling told him that what came next probably would not go smoothly, especially when they had to face that hairless Braised Egg.
Saying this now was simply his way of hoping Ginny would stay outside.
Ginny understood what Harry meant, but she shook her head.
"If anything happens, how are we supposed to let you know? It could be a huge place in there."
"We're going with you, Harry," Neville said.
"Keep going," Ron said, likewise objecting.
Only Hermione spoke otherwise.
"I think Harry's right. We have to leave someone here to keep watch. If anyone comes, you'll be able to prepare."
"As for letting you know... I have a way."
"The Patronus Charm can do that. I know that technique too."
"But only you and I can do it..." Harry said.
"So I'll have to stay here," Hermione replied softly. "There might be nobody in there, or there might be