The matter of the Two-Way Mirror was merely a digression, a small interlude.
Being able to hear her family's voices, along with the faint sound of waves from their end, was enough to leave Hermione perfectly content.
They were doing quite well. They could even go on holiday.
After arranging a time for their next chat, Hermione happily planted a loud kiss on Su Er's cheek, then left the office humming.
Su Er watched Hermione disappear through the office doorway. The smile on his lips gradually faded, and he gave a soft sigh. Here in this Castle, during this time, Hannah was not the only one who had left, nor was she the only one whose family had suffered a misfortune.
Voldemort had already risen and was unleashing bloodshed across the wizarding world. Although Dumbledore's presence had kept him from stepping into the open, the momentum of his return was already unstoppable.
Beneath the surface of this seemingly peaceful Castle, turmoil was already brewing.
The peaceful days would not last much longer.
Winter came particularly early that year, with rain, snow, and fierce winds arriving on Hogwarts' first Hogsmeade Weekend.
"The children have all left. Are you ready, Nockhan?" Flitwick's voice came from outside. "The weather is absolutely dreadful today. A hot drink at the Three Broomsticks would be just the thing."
"Coming." Su Er drew his gaze away from the long line of scarf-clad figures making their way into the wind and turned toward the door.
Hermione came too-no, rather, she walked through the pub's door while Su Er was listening to Professor Flitwick talk about his past. Neville and Ginny were beside her, and Harry was there too, of course.
They did not stay long. With Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, and several other teachers present, Hermione naturally could