A rustling just outside the flap of her tent long after most of the village residents were asleep startled Hermione out of her thoughts. Both grateful for the distraction and worried what she would find when she looked outside, she held her practically useless wand in her hand, ready to strike, if forced. The moment her eyes settled on the furry Saint Bernard sitting on his hind legs staring in her direction, she felt her shoulders slump in relief. She didn't think that Rodolphus was there to maul her to death. If he wanted to transform back into his human form and attempt a different sort of mauling, she might easily be persuaded. But, she wouldn't hold her breath. He'd had plenty of opportunities in the past, plenty of subtle and not-so-subtle invitations, and never shown the slightest bit of interest. Somehow she didn't think that would ever change. She stepped past the wards, revealing her presence. The massive dog didn't even flinch.