Hermione Breaks Down After Ron's Departure and Return

After they arrive on the heather-covered hillside, Hermione Granger breaks down in tears. She sits on a rock, sobbing into her knees, while Harry watches her from a distance. Although Harry feels like he should comfort her, he is too overwhelmed by his own feelings of cold anger toward Ron Weasley. As Hermione grieves, Harry walks in a large circle, casting protective spells to secure their new location. The two avoid discussing Ron over the following days, although Harry occasionally hears Hermione crying at night.