Hermione and Harry try to convince Dumbledore that Sirius Black is innocent and that Scabbers, Ron's rat, is actually the culprit. Dumbledore acknowledges their sincerity but states that the word of three 13-year-old wizards will not convince many, highlighting how a child's true voice is often ignored by those who've forgotten how to listen.

Dumbledore gives Hermione cryptic advice about using a Time-Turner to help Sirius Black, who is in the Dark Tower. He emphasizes the danger of meddling with time, warns them not to be seen, and advises Hermione to turn the Time-Turner three times before the last chime to prevent ghastly consequences. He also suggests that retracing steps is a wise starting point when in doubt.

Ron is bewildered by Dumbledore's unusual advice. Hermione then reveals the Time-Turner, explaining that she needed it to attend all her classes. She uses it to transport herself and Harry back in time, while Ron is left behind due to his injured leg. They aim to go back to 7:30, realizing they need to go to Hagrid's hut without being seen.