Nodding, Harry rose and allowed Hermione to wrap her arms around Ron's neck. Meanwhile, he covered her back. Hesitant, he put his hand on her hip from behind. The trio put their heads together, drawing strength from each other. Then the chanting started anew. A bare minute into it, Hermione began to scream, yet instead of pulling back, her friends crowded closer, holding her up, while Harry finished the ritual. She was sobbing, shivering between them while holding her head as if she was afraid it would burst open.