As Hermione stepped out of the fireplace and into the Ministry reception area, she felt a pang of disappointment that Harry was not there to greet her again. She could have used the emotional support. Sighing heavily, Hermione dusted off the excess floo powder from her jeans. Facing what she had to do with the utmost dread, she decided to dress casually in dark wash jeans and a black jumper; her untamed hair was pulled back into a long ponytail.