To a Better End

Chapter 11

September 10th 1898

Hermione, though surprised that she was not meeting with the Headmaster, was pleased to discover her curriculum had been approved by the deputy Headmistress. It was confirmation that if Hermione hadn't had trauma from the war, she might have made a good teacher.

While Matilda Weasley was mildly intimidating to the students, she was more than pleasant in their meeting. Malfoy had to use all his restraint to not crack one of his usual "weasel jokes" during his appointment with her.

The first day for the students was rather normal. Given the absence of an impending war and a dark lord, the day was far more normal than any of the first days she experienced as a pupil. The sorting ceremony was, as it always was, laborious and long-winded. But for all the Sorting Hat made her want a nap, she was enlivened by the enthusiasm and excitement of so many young faces getting sorted into their new homes.

Before she knew it, the entire first week had flown by without any hiccups. Hermione was shocked, but she found joy in experiencing a version of Hogwarts not yet plagued by terror, trolls, and turmoil.

After waking up on Friday, Hermione slithered out from under Draco's arm and returned to her own room. After gulping a dose of Polyjuice Potion, she pulled out her charmed notebook.

Theo,

Hope all is well there. Any changes in the Time-Turner? Are you having any personal memory issues? Have you attempted to venture out at all? Miss you and your late-night snacks, terribly.

HG

The clock ticked by at an agonisingly slow pace as Hermione waited for a response. It was possible Theo may not have even been near the journal to reply. Just as she was about to close it, she saw writing appear in a neat, familiar cursive.

Goldy,

I haven't noticed any changes to the Time-Turner. Still looks creepy. Don't worry about my memory. Everything is perfectly intact.

I did leave, actually. It wasn't for very long. Still a bit cautious about the whole thing. Angelina was having a pretty rough day. George was working a pretty long day and sent a patronus to see if I could help out. Baby Fred seems to be making the poor woman sick over most foods. I was able to get her a basket of greasy chips the other day, and she had no problems holding them down. It felt good to save the day. You'd have been proud of me.

The strange thing about it all is that it's only been maybe a day since you left, but I know for you it's likely far longer. There's some sort of disconnect in time, but from what I've read, that seems to be part of the protection.

How has Hogwarts been? Any troublesome students, professor? I trust that you have been sleeping well.

Mr. Notty.

Hermione wasn't a fan of Theo leaving the manor, but with him having a Time-Turner he could wear, to keep him linked to the one in the manor, he was still protected. It didn't mean she was happy with it by any means, but she was trying to be okay with it.

I can only imagine the joy on Angelina's face when you came in with that delicious treat for her. You're a treasure, Theo. Don't forget it.

I haven't had any trouble yet. My best student is actually a first year that was... or will become our professor. Horace is such a sweet boy and really determined to make high marks. He's found himself in a friend group with plenty of students that will be receiving top scores if they keep up with their enthusiasm.

I do have one student that's a pretentious little prick, though. He's not trouble per say, but there's still time.

I'll be off in a couple of minutes to grab some breakfast in the Great Hall. I'll write you later.