Hello Allison. Wow! This just keeps getting and better and better! I love the way you write Abby. And I'm so glad her mom is so straight forward with her. Sorry to quote so much, but this whole part was so sad! She was so small then. She must have been so afraid!
Ahhh! That'd be great!
Great post Allison. I'll be watching for your next post. Hope it's soon.

I nodded to my mom and Dumbledore who had risen from his chair.

"I believe this meeting is finished for now. I will be sure to contact all of you as for when our next meeting will be." Dumbledore went out into the hallway, giving my mom a moment and I to speak.

"It's going to be alright Abby," my mom said, pulling me into a gentle hug. "You can do this."

"Why did you never tell me?" I asked her.

My mom let out a sigh, running her hand through her hair. "It's not that I didn't want to, it's just I didn't want you worrying if there was nothing to worry about. I wasn't sure if Voldemort would become aware of what you are or not, but there has been some recent indication that he has."

"Recent indication? What happened?"

My mom cleared her throat. "Severus told us that Voldemort was talking about you the other day. He's asked Severus to keep an eye on you," my mom said, eyeing Severus in the corner of the room who was watching us. "Listen Abby this is very important. Mind-delving is a frightening thing and I want to make sure that you are prepared. Dumbledore will help you and I wi ll help you when you're home, but you must be careful. It is easy when you delve to get lost and forget whose mind and thoughts you are in, especially since you will be going through Harry. You must remember who you are. Can you do that?"

"Yeah mom, I can do that." She nodded to me in that "good girl" way and stood up, heading towards the fireplace.

"Mom!" I called out. She turned to look at me. "Where's dad?"

"He was feeling a bit under the weather, so he stayed home tonight," my mom said with a smile before turning on the spot and leaving. Sirius came over and sat down next to me after seeing that Dumbledore was talking to Kingsley.

"How is Harry?" Sirius asked me.

"Hurting," I said. "He sent you a letter didn't he?"

"Yes, he did, but I can't physically be there the way you are. You're good for him you know?" said Sirius with a boyish smile. Instinctively I felt my cheeks start to flush.

"He doesn't think of me that way Sirius," I said in a small whisper. Professor Lupin had strolled over to be involved in our conversation.

"Well, he might not now but it doesn't mean he won't in the future. Besides I don't think things will really go anywhere with Cho anyway." He gave me a reassuring smack on the back and Professor Lupin nodded at me in reassurance, thinking to me that I should remain open.

I got out of my chair and walked over to Professor Dumbledore and followed him out of the house, disapparating on the steps to our secret passage back to the school.

"Professor Dumbledore, how did my mom apparate out of Grimmauld Place?"

"Phoenixes animagi are just like house elves in the sense that they have a kind of magic that defies certain wizarding logic," Dumbledore said with a smile.

"Will Voldemort go after my mother?" I asked him. He turned and looked at me.

"It is definitely a possibility. Tom may believe that by getting rid of your parents he can feed off of your anger and grief. But don't worry Abby. Your mother is a very strong witch as well as your father."

I nodded. My mother was a phoenix animagi and a great one at that, and had spent most of my life sheltering me from the darker aspects of it. The power that comes with a phoenix animagi can be difficult to control, and if not handled carefully it would be easy for the person to slip into the darkness. After all it's difficult knowing and feeling every emotion and thought of the people surrounding you. It takes a certain mind to handle it, and I was thankful my mother had helped me to be one of those people that could.

"Now remember Abby, you must not tell Harry what you are doing with the connection. That is very important. If Tom is aware of this, he might accidentally get it out of Harry's mind without evening being aware of it."

"I promise I won't tell him Professor."

We were quite for a couple of moments. "I appreciate you speaking up for him Abby. In my desire to protect him I find I lose perspective and sometimes do more damage than good."

"He knows you're trying to help him Professor, but maybe if you talk to him?"

Dumbledore shook his head. "If I talk with Harry Tom will want to use Harry to get information from me. By distancing myself I can prevent that from happening. Please understand Abby."

"I do Professor. I won't tell Harry about the connection, but I can't keep lying to him. It's not right. I'm sorry."

Dumbledore reached out a hand and put it on my shoulder. A wave of sympathy and warmth came flooding into me. "I don't want you to lie anymore Abby. It has been made very obvious tonight that Harry needs you and to try and deprive him of you would be wrong."

We were back at the castle and in Dumbledore's office. I nodded in appreciation, before leaving his office and sliding on my invisibility cloak. I listened and could hear the thoughts of Professor Umbridge on the other side of the statue.

I am surely going to get him this time.

I backtracked up the stairs and into Dumbledore's office, sliding the cloak off.

"Yes Abby?" Dumbledore asked, looking up from the book he was reading on his desk.

"Professor Umbridge is waiting outside the door," I said, annoyance coming through more than I wanted it to.

Professor Dumbledore shared a similar expression. I will go out first, and you follow me beneath the cloak," Dumbledore said with a smile. I slid the cloak back on and followed him out the doors, and down the staircase. He pushed open the door, walking through slowly and leaving enough space so I could slip out behind him.

"Dolores?" Dumbledore asked innocently. "What are you doing outside my office at this hour of the morning?"

"Albus!" Umbridge said, slightly shocked that he spotted her behind the gargoyle. "I was just patrolling the halls is all," said Umbridge with her toady smile.

"Ah, well I am sure no students would be silly enough to be out of bed after hours in front of the headmaster's office."

"You never know. I thought I saw Miss Carson moving about after hours the other day. She always seems to be slipping away from me. In fact she owes me a detention for walking out of my class with Mr. Potter the other day."

Professor Dumbledore was eyeing her curiously. "Very well. I am sure if you send her a note telling her the time and place she will be there. Although Miss Carson not wanting to tell you the details of her personal life hardly seems an appropriate reason to give her detention."

Professor Umbridge's cheeks flushed. "I know there is something going on between the two of you and I am going to figure out what."

Dumbledore nodded, that twinkle in his eyes. "Good luck."

And with that he turned and went back into his office, leaving Umbridge standing there dumbfounded and me laughing silently as I headed back to the Gryffindor common room.

Hello Allison.I really enjoyed reading this chapter so much! You did an outstanding job writing it, and proved your story telling talents to be just as outstanding. I krpt getting new favorite sentences and sections clear through the chapter, so I won't highlight any and just say, I love how Abby stands up for Harry, and shows Dumbledore how alone Harry is. I love how Sirius and Lupin both encourage her to be patient about Harry coming around to her, although what girl enjoys watching the one she's interested in have no interest in you, but watch as he displays his wants for another girl. Being second choice doesn't seem fair to young girls. Even though it isn't real at that age, it still hurts. And the other thing I loved was Dumbledore helping Abby out of the office. I would have fallen over laughing if he had asked her to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with him in the kitchen, instead of trying to trap his students in wrongful acts.
Great post Allison. I can't wait for your next. Outstanding writing!

Thanks so much Connie. It means a lot

I slid the invisibility cloak off of me just before I was in view of the Fat Lady. She seemed startled to see me out of bed at this hour, but she merely kept her one eyebrow raised as she admitted me into the common room. I was not surprised to find Harry, Ron, and Hermione all stationed at one of the tables, looking eagerly at the portrait.

"How was it?" asked Hermione, nearly jumping out of her seat as I took mine.

"It went alright I suppose. They really just talked about whether or not I should be allowed in the order, and then we talked a little bit about the weapon that Voldemort wants." I slid the invisibility cloak over to Harry and he took it.

"Weapon?" said Ron. "Blimey. What kind of weapon?"

"A prophecy apparently," I said with a shrug.

"A prophecy?" said Hermione, her brainy look appearing on her face. "But what would he want with a prophecy?"

"Honestly I don't know. It seems kind of silly if you ask me."

"Why do you say that?" asked Harry.

"Well prophecies are subject to change," I said with a sigh. "The less you are willing to believe in a prophecy the less strength it has."

"And the more you believe in it, the more strength it has," said Harry in understanding.

"Exactly."

"Hardly seems like the kind of weapon Voldemort would really make sure a fuss over," said Ron, leaning back in his chair and yawning, his mouth making a perfect o shape.

"Well prophecies can at least give you some idea as to what to expect. And there is some truth to them, even if they don't come entirely true," said Hermione, eyeing Ron's yawn.

"What else did you talk about?" asked Harry.

"Not much really. They talked a little bit about how we have the prophecy secured, but in all reality I don't feel like we discussed much."

Harry nodded. "I feel like all they're doing is sitting around and waiting. Why aren't they taking a more active approach?"

"This is Voldemort Harry," said Hermione as if that was explanation enough. "We can't just act against him based off of hunches and small gut instincts. We need facts and hard proof before we make a move. If we just act on a whim we could end up losing a lot of people."

I nodded. "She's right Harry. I feel like they're in the dark almost as much as we are. He's not feared for no reason you know?"

Harry took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes. "Yeah, I know. It's just difficult sitting around and waiting when a mass murderer who wants me dead is out there somewhere."

Hermione pat Harry on the shoulder in understanding. "We better get off to bed. We don't want to be late for Potions class tomorrow."

I sighed. Great. Snape. "I really do hate that man," said Ron as we all stood up.

"Who doesn't?" said Harry.

"Surely Snape has some good qualities in there somewhere, right Abby?"

I laughed. "If there are I haven't quite caught a glimpse of them yet."

The four of us laughed quietly as we headed back up the stairs to bed. Harry and Ron jumped when the boys dormitory door opened and Seamus stepped out. I had to grab on to the balcony rail behind me to stop myself from falling back down the steps.

"What are you four doing up at this hour?" asked Seamus.

"Couldn't sleep," said Ron with a shrug of the shoulders. "What are you doing up?"

"I forgot to do the reading for potions," said Seamus, holding up the potions book. "I am going to do it now."

Harry simply stared at the book before stepping back so he could pass. Seamus glared at him for a moment, before walking past, stopping when he saw me.

"Can I talk to you a minute? Since you're up and all," asked Seamus, his features softening.

I could feel all their eyes on me. "What do you want to talk to her for?" asked Harry, anger filling his entire body. I looked at him, slightly taken aback. Was that really a hint of jealousy I was feeling?

"None of your business Potter. Last time I checked I was capable of talking to Abby without you getting involved," replied Seamus, the words coming through his teeth. Harry took a step down so that he was at eye level with him.

"Come on guys, we don't need to fight," I said, putting a hand on Harry's chest when the vision of him punching Seamus flashed through his head. "It's no big deal Harry. Go on up to bed and I'll see you tomorrow."

Harry continued to look at Seamus, but when I gave him a tiny shove he turned his attention to me, relaxing slightly when he saw I wasn't concerned. He turned and headed into the dormitory, Ron following. Hermione eyed me slightly before heading towards our own dormitory.

I motioned for Seamus to go down so he did, sitting down at the same table we had just been sitting at it. I sat down across from him, the feeling of nervousness creeping in to his demeanor now that his anger was dying down.

"Abby, I've been wanting to talk to you for a while now. You see, I've always liked you, ever since our first year, but I've never really gotten up the courage to do anything about it. But I figure we're older now, and you're single and I'm single, so....I was wondering if you'd like to go out with me? There's a hogsmeade trip coming up and I thought maybe we could spend the day together?"

I could feel the hope pouring out from his body, his hands just laying on the table in the hopes that I would take them. How had I only rarely ever picked up on this before? How had I not sensed the longing he had to touch me before this moment? Was I really that delved into Harry's mind and what he was thinking all the time?

"Listen, I know you like Potter. I mean, it's pretty obvious, and to be honest he seems to be the only one that's not noticing. But you don't want someone like Potter, do you? Someone whose always going to be your relationship on the back burner because of everything else he is dealing with?"

I opened my mouth before closing it. Seamus had hit a sore spot, and to be honest a concern I had always had when I started having feelings for Harry. Would I always be on the back burner with Harry? Was it worth waiting for someone who would probably never see me that way?

"Seamus, it's complicated."

"Sure it is. Harry's a complicated bloke," said Seamus matter-of-factly. "But you must see how he looks at Cho."

I looked down at my lap. Seamus got up and moved to the chair next to me, reaching and taking one of my hands into his. This was too much.

"I don't want to hurt you by pointing this out," said Seamus, leaning forward so I had to look at him. "I am saying this because you are under appreciated. Do you even notice how many guys like you and find you attractive? I can name a few if you'd like," said Seamus with a tiny laugh.

As much as I hated myself for it Seamus's hand felt nice. I had never held a guy's hand before, or had my hand held with such affection.

Seamus let out a gentle sigh. "All I'm asking is for you to give me a chance. I think I can make you happy Abby. No, I don't think, I know I can make you happy. And listen, I don't want to get in the way of yours and Harry's friendship, because I can see that it is important to you, but please, let me take you out on this date. If it's awful and you hate it, then I'll leave you alone."

I closed my eyes, sensing the presence of someone on the staircase.

"Sure Seamus, I'm willing to give it a go," I said, a small smile. Seamus's whole mood lifted and a huge smile spread across his face.

"Great," he said, leaning forward and giving me a gentle kiss on the cheek. Instinctively I felt myself blush. Seamus looked down at the book. "Eh, I'll read this later," he said, before pushing back the chair and heading up the steps. I remained in the seat a part of me shocked, a part of me happy.

"How could you do that?" asked Harry's voice out of nowhere.

"What do you mean how could I do that?" I asked Harry as he slid the cloak off and sat down next to me.

"It's Seamus."

"I like Seamus," I said simply.

"He thinks I am crazy," said Harry, anger seeping through.

"You know he'll come around. Besides you heard him. He said he doesn't want to come in between our friendship."

"Oh, so you just believe him?" said Harry, his voice rising.

"And what do you want me to do Harry?!" I yelled, jumping up with such force I knocked my chair over. Shock hit Harry's face.

"What do you want me to tell you Harry? How long do you want me to wait? How long do you want me to sit here and watch you swoon over some girl that is not me, huh? How many guys do you want me to turn down while you chase after a girl that's not me? I can't do it any more Harry, I can't. I have been so involved in you and how you are feeling that I am not living my life. I am not giving myself a chance to be loved by someone else."

"I never asked you to not go out with people," said Harry, not at all surprised by my admitting how a felt.

"Well then what are you doing right now? Or am I allowed to date some guys but not others, is that it?"

"No, Abby," Harry let out a groan of frustration. "Just not Seamus, please!"

"Give me a reason Harry. Give me a reason and I will walk up there and tell Seamus I can't do it."

Harry stared at me, his eyes looking lost and hurt. "Abby..."

I closed my eyes, the tears streaming down. "I love you Harry, but obviously after all these years, that's not enough."

I stormed past him and up the stairs, leaving him standing in front of the now dead fire. I slumped down in front of the girl's dormitory door, quietly sobbing as the thought went through his head.

I'm sorry Abby, but it's Cho.

Hello Allison. I wonder why this didn't show as a new post. Anyway, this was a great post Allison. I have so much respect for how you write Abby. Well, all of it, but especially Abby. You have her able to say the perfect things to everyone when they drill her about the meeting. She tells them enough to be satisfied, but not enough to give away anything she needs to keep secret.

I still wish Harry would give up on Cho, I know she's sweet and all, and I understand Harry being attracted to her, it's just I don't like her for him. She really isn't right for him. Abby on the other hand is right for him. Why are boys so blind to what's best for them?

I always liked Sheamus, but it irks me that he doesn't stand up for Harry, and chooses to side with his mom. He's too wishy washy, but yet takes a definite stand against Harry. And I don't like him liking Abby saying yes to him. But, she has a point here: I wonder if Harry feels like Abby is a safety net for him. He doesn't care if she dates, just not someone who is against him, and thinks he's crazy. Harry lives in fear of his life everyday. And I think he's afraid if Abby falls in love with Shemus, she won't be there for him anymore.

Great post Allison. I hope you can post soon.

I am not sure why it didn't come up as a new post. *pokes computer* Thanks for your comments

The next morning could easily be described with one word: awkward. My eyes were still somewhat puffy from all the crying I had done the night before and Harry was doing just about everything in his power to avoid me. Ron and Hermione had quickly picked up on the tension at breakfast and had silently agreed among each other that perhaps they should split Harry and I up.

I read Harry's emotions as I munched on a piece of toast and I realized he was hurt and confused, having no idea how to fix the situation. The truth was I didn't know if there was a way that he could fix it, but I was finished with making the first move, and if he had something to say he was going to need to come to me and say it himself.

By the time we had made it down into the dungeons for our Potions lesson several students had appeared, one of which was Draco Malfoy. Eyeing my face he smirked. "Been crying have you Carson?" Draco sneered out. Crabbe and Goyle chuckled.

"Leave her alone," said Ron with an eye roll.

"Oh, are you coming to her defense there Weasley? I thought you only had a fancy for the mudblood over there."

Ron stepped off the wall and was in Draco's face within seconds. "Don't you dare call her that," he said through his teeth.

"It's alright Ron. He's not worth it," said Hermione, putting her hand on Ron's shoulder and pulling him away from Malfoy.

Draco scoffed. "So Abby, do share. What's got you crying like a three year old?"

I knew why Draco did what he did. He was never good enough for his parents and knew he would never be respected by any of the Death Eaters his family associated with. He was seen as weak, and not having the courage to stand up for himself in front of his family, he chose to harass and insult people here instead. I guess he was better near these peers who were less likely to do anything than the Death Eaters that surely would if he spoke with disrespect.

And any other day I would have let it go, and chalked it up to Malfoy just being Malfoy, but today, I was not having it. I leaned off the wall and moved Ron and Hermione to the side. Everyone was dead quiet.

"What is it to you Malfoy?" I asked, completely straight-faced. "Looking for a good laugh are you? Or perhaps it's because it makes you feel like a man insulting your peers, but really you and I both know Draco, that you're just a coward. Struggling to get into your Daddy's good graces so that maybe you can be respected among your little Death Eater friends."

Draco laughed, somewhat nervously, losing his edge. "What are you talking about?"

I stepped closer. "You think I don't know what your dad really is or what he's doing on his free time?" I let out a cold laugh. "Please. I know everything there is to know about you. I know your dad would probably beat you more often for embarrassing him if it weren't for your mother stepping in. I know you hate your home life, but see no way out of the life you have. So instead of admitting you aren't like your father and don't ever want to be like him, you try to be tough. You act mean and cruel to people so everyone is more likely to believe that you will follow in your father's footsteps. And let's just get this straight Draco, you may be able to fool everyone else, but you will never be able to fool me." I tapped my temple with the tip of my finger before turning and going into the Potions classroom.

I could tell everyone was stunned into silence. I had never so openly admitted how involved in everyone's thoughts I was by default like that. But to be honest, I didn't care. Perhaps this would make them more thoughtful of what they were thinking about when they were around me.

Snape looked up at me curiously as I slammed my bag onto the table and took my seat, Hermione coming in and sitting down next to me. She wasn't mad or concerned, she understood. I was hurting and when people hurt, they snap.

Without saying a word Hermione reached across and placed her hand on top of mine, giving it a tight squeeze and just holding it there. I could feel the tears starting to come up but I pushed them back. Now was not the time nor the place for this.

"Hello class. Today we will be making a light potion. If made correctly this potion will automatically start glowing at the first sign of darkness or danger. It can be remarkably useful when going into unfamiliar areas where there might be danger. Turn your books to page 157 and begin. I will test your potions at the end of class."

Harry and Ron had sat down on the other side of the room, Ron looking over at us, a sense of victory across my face. He loved it when people stuck it to Malfoy. I didn't bother listening to what Harry thought.

"Granger, I think you and Miss Carson are partners far too often. Potter, gather your things and come to work with Miss Carson. Miss Granger you can go and work with Weasley."

I looked up at Snape in protest and he furrowed his brows. You need to stay close to Potter Abby whether you are having personal issues or not. This is much bigger than your hormonal discrepancies.

Hermione quickly gathered her things, giving me an apologetic look, before glaring at Harry to be nice, and going to sit with Ron. Harry set his stuff down next to me in silence and we both began to work. We handed each other the tools in silence when the other person needed them, never talking or making eye contact.

I was wrong. Harry finally thought in my direction. I looked at him out of the corner of my eye. I shouldn't have gotten angry at you the way I did. My personal issues with Seamus right now have nothing to do with you, and it was wrong to make that whole issue about me. I just...you're my rock Abby, and when I struggle you're the one that gets it. I don't want to lose you.

I let out a sigh, spotting Snape preoccupied with whatever was coming out of Neville Longbottom's cauldron.

"I understand Harry. I was wrong to be angry at you for liking Cho. It's not my place to tell you how you should or shouldn't feel about someone."

I threw a bit of shredded moonstone into the cauldron and watched as it turn the silvery white color it was supposed to. Potions was definitely my thing.

"Alright class. Scoop some of your potion into a vial with your name on it," Snape said, emphasizing the last five words while looking at some Slytherins closely. "Place them in the vial container on my desk then you are free to leave. This potion will be graded as pass or fail." Snape turned and went into his office, closing the door behind him.

I scooped some of my potion into a container, and wrote my name on it neatly. Harry did the same, his potion more white than silver, but still on track. I looked over and saw that Hermione's was the same color as mine but Ron's was more of a pastel purple color than silver. He added too much of something.

"You don't owe me any apology," said Harry, turning towards me. "Seamus is right. I take you for granted and it's not fair."

"Like I said Harry, you can't help how you feel." Harry nodded solemnly.

"I'm so sorry," said Harry, his entire posture just collapsing in such a way that it looked like someone had just lifted a huge weight off of his shoulders. Instinctively, I reached out and pulled him into a hug. Harry rested his head against my shoulder and wrapped his arms around my waist and I held him there for a couple of minutes. The entire class had emptied and it was just Harry and me, holding him so that he didn't collapse right then and there.

"It's okay Harry. I'll always be here," I whispered into his ear.

I pulled him even closer as Harry's body began to shake, and the warm tears soaked into my shirt.

Hello Allison. What a fantastic chapter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!! I loved it so much! This is my favorite chapter of all! My goodness, how did you come up with so much wonderfulness?!!?!!?!?!?!? Get'm Ron! The calm before the storm. Oh dear! Hope that wasn't a mistake her saying all that. It was brilliant though. I loved this ^!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

But this next, all of it, was my most favorite part in the whole story! Brilliant writing! I'm serious, this last line nearly made me cry! Great chapter Allison. I'll be watching for your next post.

I gently pulled out of Harry's hug when I felt Snape come back into the room. He eyed me curiously before turning his focus to Harry who had bent down to pick up his bag. I led him out of the room and closed the door to the potions room shut.

Luckily Harry's eyes didn't get red when he cried, and in fact if you hadn't known he was crying you would have had no idea. Ron and Hermione had been waiting for us near the steps leading out of the dungeon. Hermione raised one eyebrow at me, but I just motioned for her to start walking. Now was not the time to discuss everything. Harry and I seemed to be on the verge of emotional breakdowns at lot these days, and perhaps mine were because I was listening so closely to Harry's.

"Let's go get some lunch," Ron said happily, leading us towards the Great Hall.

"We just ate before class Ronald," Hermione said in exasperation.

"What, I'm hungry?" said Ron innocently. Hermione rolled her eyes before they both started laughing.

"Hey!" All four of us turned at the sound of Neville's voice. He was running towards us with a piece of paper in his hand.

"Hey Neville, what's up?" asked Ron.

"I just bumped into Professor Umbridge and she wanted me to give you this," said Neville, handing me the piece of paper in his hand. I flipped it open and let out a sigh of discuss.

Dear Miss Carson,
After your performance in last lesson's class I am issuing a detention so we can work on how to respect your peers. I ask that you bring Mr. Potter along as well since he also needs to work on this, among other things. I expect to see you in my office tonight at 7:00 sharp. I will supply everything that you need. Good day!

Sincerely,
Professor Dolores Umbridge

"Oh, you've got to be kidding," said Hermione as she read the note over my shoulder.

"Should have known we wouldn't have gotten out of that that easily," said Harry with a shake of the head.

"Well at least we won't have to handle her individually," I said with a sincere smile.

"Yeah, good point," said Harry with a smile back at me.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"You ready to go?" asked Harry, looking at his watch disdainfully.

"Yeah, I guess we better," I said, getting up and sliding my chair in. Ron and Hermione were working on their homework while Harry and I discussed what we thought our punishment will be.

"Knowing her it will be something awful," I said as Harry and I walked out of the portrait. I halted instantly, almost smacking into Seamus who was coming in through the other side.

"Oh hey Abby," said Seamus with a bright smile. "Harry," Seamus said with a stiff nod.

Harry gave him a stiff one back before continuing off ahead. "Where are you off to?" asked Seamus.

"Detention with Umbridge," I said with a shrug. "I guess she doesn't like the amount of respect I give her."

Seamus laughed. "Trust me, everyone secretly wants to have done what you did."

I laughed. "Well I better get going. Don't want to be late," I said with an eye roll.

"Yeah, yeah. Don't let me keep you. I was wondering what time do you want to head over to Hogsmeade?"

"Oh, um...how about noon? We could get lunch somewhere?" I suggested, already feeling my cheeks getting red again.

"Yeah, that's great. How about we meet in the common room a couple minutes before?"

"Yeah, that sounds great," I said with a smile. I gave him a small smile before heading off to catch up to Harry, who was waiting at the bottom of the steps for me.

"Sorry about that," I said, feeling the tension entering the atmosphere.

"It's fine," Harry said with the best smile he could muster.

I nodded. This was going to be a work in progress, but what in life wasn't? We continued on in silence, running into Peeves along the way (who I swiftly got rid of with a rather nasty spell that worked against ghosts) and stopped when we got just outside Umbridge's office.

"You ready?" asked Harry with a sigh.

"As ready as I'll ever be," I said with a small laugh. Harry laughed back and knocked on the door.

"Come in Mr. Potter and Miss Carson."

I cringed. Her voice truly was difficult to listen to. We walked into the room and sat down at the two mini desks that had been set up. There was a piece of parchment on each along with a small black quill. Harry and I looked at each other uncertainly, before focusing our attention on Umbridge.

"I think the best way to learn something is repetition. Repetition, repetition, repetition," Umbridge said as she began to pace around us. "So today we'll be doing lines. Mr. Potter I would like you to write "I must not tell lies" and Miss Carson I think "I must show elders respect" should work for you."

Umbridge went over and looked out the window, the rain pouring down outside. Harry and I stared at each other, Harry looking around for ink.

"It's okay Harry, we don't need ink," I said quietly. Harry turned and looked at me curiously.

The evil witch. I placed my quill on the paper and began to write, forming out the "I m-u-s-t s-h-o-w e-l-d-e-r-s r-e-s-p-e-c-t." Harry watched in terror as the red ink, my blood ink, soaked into the parchment.

"How is that..." Harry said trailing off as I held out my hand, the words being perfectly scratched into my skin.

"Is there a problem Mr. Potter?" Umbridge asked, coming over to us with a huge smile on her face, the kind a sick person gets after they've just tortured someone and the person has one last request. Harry glared up at her, hatred steaming from his entire body.

"No Professor. No problem at all."

Hello Allison. I'm so sorry I'm just now getting here. That is very likely. Poor Abby and Harry. I see she is going through with the detention even though Dumbledore said Abby didn't deserve it. I'm so happy Harry has Abby to be with him. Yes, well I don't like Sheamus likeing Abby the way he feels about Harry. I can imagine Harry feeling the same way. He is trying isn't he. So true. I'm glad you put that line in there. It fits perfectly. What a great description! I can actually see her! Fantastic writing Allison. I'll be watching for the next post. I can't wait!

Glad that you liked it Connie It will be interesting to see what becomes of Seamus and Abby's relationship

Even though Professor Umbridge only kept us for it an hour, it felt like an eternity. Our hands were so raw from the constant cut, heal, cut, heal routine, that Harry and I could barely move our hands out of the position we used to hold our quills. She dismissed us once she was pleased that the message had "sunk in" and told us that she hoped we had learned our lesson.

I had never wanted to punch someone in the face so badly my entire life, but of course I restrained myself. After all she was a disgusting toad that would never find love.

"I could just curse her for hours!" Harry hissed out angrily once we were out of her earshot.

"I hear you," I said, inspecting my hand with disdain. Who knew that cutting into the back of your hand could be so painful. I imagined I would probably possess these scars for the rest of my life...a permanent imprint of Umbridge with me forever.

"There has to be something we can do. I mean she isn't helping us learn spells, and she's definitely not going to help us pass our O.W.L.s," said Harry as we walked.

"Well, maybe we should find our own way to practice," I said, stopping Harry.

"Where? How?" asked Harry, excitement in his eyes.

"I'm not sure. Let's discuss it with Ron and Hermione. It will probably be difficult but definitely not impossible."

Harry nodded and we continued along until we got in front of the Fat Lady who holding an empty wine glass in her hand. Since our third year here she had been determined that she could take her voice to such a high octave that she could shatter a wine glass. Obviously after two years she still hadn't managed it.

"You wait," she said, eyeing our skepticism. "One day this glass will break!"

"I have the utmost faith," I said with a genuine smile. We were about to go through when Harry grabbed my shoulder.

"Can we agree not to tell Ron and Hermione about the quills?"

"Sure Harry," I said, sensing that he figured Hermione would want to tell Dumbledore. "We don't have to go out of our way to tell Dumbledore, but if he notices it at one of our meetings or something, I'll tell him the truth."

"Thanks Abby," Harry said with a smile that I was pleased to see had no tension behind it. That is until Seamus came through the portrait.

"Harry, Abby," Seamus said with a smile.

"I'll catch you later," said Harry to me, before swiftly walking through the portrait over to Ron and Hermione, who were eyeing us carefully.

"How was detention?" asked Seamus, concern on his face.

"Oh, she's into the more ancient practice of making us do lines. No big deal," I said with a shrug, slipping my right hand further up my sleeve so he couldn't see how raw it was.

"I hate lines. What did you have to write?"

"I must show elders respect," I said with a small laugh. Seamus laughed as well.

"I was just heading to the library to check out a book for this Ancient Runes essay. Want to come with?" he asked, wanting my company.

"Sure, why not," I said with a smile, following him out and down the steps. We walked in silence most of the time, commenting on some things occasionally. I could tell there was something he wanted to ask me, but I figured I would wait for him to actually say it.

We walked into the library, the librarian eyeing us curiously, expecting us to be up to no good. It wasn't her fault really. Most students found the endless bookshelves, shadows, and hideaway spots in the library the perfect place to snog.

"I think the book is right....here," Seamus said, reaching up and pulling it down off the shelf. "I thought about grabbing it earlier, but I already had so many books, I was hoping I wouldn't need it."

I smiled understandingly. There was nothing worse than only being able to get a little bit of information from each book, rather than having everything you need in one.

"Abby, can I ask you something?" Seamus said, his voice dropping a little bit.

"Yeah, sure," I said, leaning back on one of the desks.

"Why do you believe Harry about Cedric and You-Know-Who coming back?"

"Well for starters I can read minds remember? If he was lying I would have picked up on it by now. But even if I didn't have this ability I would still believe Harry. I mean, who would make that kind of thing up? I think people are skeptical to believe him because they are afraid of what it will mean if they give credit to what Harry and Dumbledore are saying."

"But no one was there with Harry. For all we know..."

"What, Harry killed Cedric?" I said incredulously, cutting Seamus off. "Listen, before the whole final task last year you and Harry were friends. Not great friends, but good enough friends that I find it weird how quickly you are to believe he's lying. And honestly, do you really think Harry would kill someone?"

Seamus looked down, shame rising in his whole body. "No, I don't," said Seamus quietly.

"Listen, I don't know your mother, but I'm sure she was around to see the terrible things that happened the first time You-Know-Who was in power, and I'm not surprised that she doesn't want to believe it. But ignorance is going to get people killed. Whether they want to believe or not, this is fact. Do you think it's just a coincidence that the Ministry appointed a staff member this year? Or that they're not letting us actually practice spells in Defense Against the Dark Arts?"

Seamus looked up. "The Daily Prophet said it's because they aren't sure the way they've been teaching us here is the right way."

I scoffed. "Oh come on Seamus, really? You believe that? Hogwarts has housed some of the greatest witches and wizards in the world. Let's be serious."

Seamus smiled. "I just got so angry at Harry when my mum said she didn't want to let me back here because of him and what he's been saying."

"I have a feeling most people are going to need to see it with their eyes before they actually believe it," I said with a shrug. "Maybe your mom is just one of those people."

Seamus was quiet for a moment. "You've never caught a glimpse that Harry might be lying?"

"No, not once. Trust me if you could see the way he's suffering right now the way I can, you'd think differently."

Seamus was quiet again. "Let's head back to the common room," Seamus said with a gentle smile. I could tell I had given him food for thought, and perhaps what I had said would finally convince him that Harry wasn't loony, he was just admitting a truth no one wanted to face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

By the time Seamus and I had gotten back to the common room most were already up in bed, and seeing as I was tired I said goodnight to Seamus. The following morning it was storming, which I wasn't too pleased about considering we had Transfiguration, and that meant Professor McGonagall and I were going to have to trudge through the rain to our practice room.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and I had headed down to breakfast and were about to sit down when Seamus came running up to us. Everyone looked at me, but I merely sat down and pulled a piece of toast off the little toast rack.

"Listen Harry, I've been wanting to talk to you."

Harry turned and faced him, uncertainty in his eyes. "Listen I was wrong to yell at you the way I did. You're my friend and I shouldn't have believed a random Daily Prophet writer over someone I have known for five years. I even got a letter from my mum this morning saying some things in the last prophet issue didn't add up, plus Abby talked some sense into me," Seamus said with a nervous chuckle. "Basically I just want to say I'm sorry, and that I believe you Harry."

Everyone in the area around us was quiet, eyeing Harry. I looked down and smiled to myself in perfect sync with Harry's smile.

"It's good to have you back Seamus," Harry said with a smile. They both laughed and Seamus pulled Harry into a bear hug, Hermione and Ron laughing in happiness. I don't know that Harry will ever forget how quick Seamus was to turn on him, but at least he came through in the end.

Harry sat down next to me after Seamus said he had to go finish some homework, and I could feel how pleased he was.

"So I guess you owe me an "I told you so", huh?" Harry said with a small smile.

I turned and faced him head on, a huge smile on my face. "Told you so."

"But really, thanks for persuading him or whatever it was that you did to make him believe me."

"Sometimes Harry, people just need to have someone point out the perspectives that they missed."

Harry nodded. "Yeah. Thankfully we have you."

Hello Allison. Great! I loved it, every bit of it. Yeah, plus the fact that her hand is raw. It might get infected when it touched her face! Ahh, so good to see. Nicely put! How could he think that Harry was making the whole thing, or even part of it up?! Especially with Abby's abilities. Surely he doesn't think that she would hang out wih him if he killed Cedric! Abby has a very good point. And Harry's comment is just too sweet! I'm sorry but, although Sheamus is sweet and I do like him, I still want Harry and Abby together.
Great post Allison. I'll be watching for your next.

wow! iv missed so much! keep up the gud work, i love ur story!!!!
xxx

Thanks so much to both of you for your comments. Glad you are liking it!

We ate our breakfast mostly in silence until Hermione cleared her throat, wanting to subtly get our attention. I looked up and leaned forward a little after seeing that Hermione had leaned forward as well.

"So, Ron and I have been thinking."

Harry and I looked at each other. Oh no. Ron and Hermione coming up with a plan? Yikes.

"And we think that since Umbridge isn't going to teach us spells that we should teach ourselves."

"Sounds fair enough," said Harry taking a bite out of his toast, "but who is going to teach us? I mean, we will need some guidance."

"Well this is where Ron and I are having a bit of a disagreement," said Hermione, raising one eyebrow at Ron. "Ronald thinks Fred and George would be good to teach us, but if you ask me Fred and George are only good at the flashy stuff. We need someone who can teach us the stuff we'll really need in a duel situation."

"You want Harry to teach us," I said with a smile.

"You're kidding," said Harry. "I can't teach. I mean, you and Abby are much better students and spell casters than me."

Hermione leaned forward even more, an excited look on her face. "So maybe we are a little stronger in the classroom, but you have been there Harry. You have faced near death experiences and survived them. What better person to teach us than someone who has been through it?"

Harry looked at Hermione as if she had grown four heads. "Listen Hermione, all these years I have survived off of sheer luck, not because I am a great wizard."

"I told you he wouldn't want to do it," said Ron with a smug look on his face.

"What if we helped you?" I asked.

Harry looked at me. "You think I can teach this?"

"Sure," I said simply. "Harry you might not think you're a good wizard, but whatever you do, as simple or complex as the spells may be, you do them well."

Harry smiled. "Thanks Abby, but what's the point. Everyone here thinks I am a loon anyway."

"Well that's the thing. We think a lot of people will come. Everyone is fed up with Professor Umbridge not letting us actually cast spells. You might get more people than you think," said Hermione, taking a sip of her orange juice.

"What's the worst that can happen Harry? No one shows up and it's still the four of us trying to figure everything out as usual," I said with a shrug of the shoulders. "Same old."

All four of us laughed at how true that statement had been. It did always feel like the four of us were stuck trying to figure out far more complicated situations than any one our age should have to deal with.

"Alright, I'll give it a shot I guess," said Harry still pretty reluctantly.

"Great!" said Hermione, bouncing in her seat a little. "We've arranged a meeting place and time at the Hogsmeade trip this weekend."

"Wait," said Harry, eyeing Hermione angrily. "You've already set this up?"

"Yeah, we went around and got a name of the people who would consider it," said Hermione, her cheeks flushing slightly.

"You'd be surprised how many people signed up mate," said Ron with a smile.

"But you guys were acting like you hadn't already decided," said Harry, dejected.

"Well we figured if we made it seem like we waited for your opinion you'd be less against it," said Hermione with an innocent shrug.

"It'll be alright Harry," I said, rubbing his shoulder.

"Yeah, of course. So what time is this?" asked Harry.

"2:00 at the Hogs Head. It's small and private, and plus we will be out of ear shot from the toad," said Hermione, glaring at the toad of our professor.

"Come on, we don't want to be late for class," said Ron, pulling his bag onto his shoulder.

"Look at you wanting to be on time to Transfiguration," said Harry, surprise in his voice.

"Well you know how McGonagall is. She threatened to turn me into a toad if I'm ever late to her class this term."

We all nodded in understanding, fully aware that Professor McGonagall would definitely do it. Plus who knew how long she would leave him like that.

"Who knows, maybe Crookshanks will like a new friend," I said mockingly to Ron as we left the Great Hall.

"Hey Abby," Harry said quietly to me.

"Yeah?" I asked, turning to look at him.

"Do you think people are going to come just because they think I'm crazy?"

"Of course," I said straight faced. "Everyone knows crazy people have all the fun."

Harry smiled and started to laugh. "Come on. We don't want Ron to be a toad do we," I said, wrapping my arm around Harry's shoulder, pulling him into a one-armed hug.

"I don't know, that might be worth seeing."

Our laughter filled the Great Hall before the doors shut, Professor Umbridge's eyes watching Harry and I like a hawk.

Hello Allison. Thanks for posting so soon. This was a great post. I can't tell what part I loved the most. One question though: Did you mean for Harry to say this, ^ or was it Ron? This next part was too cute. And this part made me wish your post was longer. Why does she think she has to put her face in everything? She really irks me. Great post Allison. I'll be watching for your next.

Yes that was supposed to be Ron not Harry I fixed it I am glad you liked the post. I needed to end that chapter, hence why it was a bit shorter, but the next post will be longer. I promise

Cue trip to Hogsmeade

It felt like Transfiguration class had gone by in a breeze, as did my own personal lesson with Professor McGonagall. I had been hoping that I could actually make my hand a color this time, but it merely went transparent, my hands starting to curve a little more into the shape of feathers.

Professor McGonagall was very impressed with how well as I was doing after only my first lesson, but I was impatient and wanted the ability to transform to come about sooner. Plus I had a nagging feeling about what color my feathers might be, and I wasn't entirely sure how I felt about it.

I had quickly thrown on a sweater, pair of jeans, and a pair of sneakers before heading down the steps into the common room. I supposed being as this was my first date I should have taken a bit more time preparing myself, but my oversleeping had halted that thought in its tracks.

I saw Seamus standing by one of the tables talking to Dean, who I noticed was sitting with Ginny. The vibe I was getting from them threw me...were they becoming an item?

"Abby," Seamus said with a smile when he noticed me. He waved for me to come over to them, so I did, bending down to give Ginny a little hug.

"Are you guys heading off already?" asked Dean.

"Yeah, we were going to grab some lunch and then wander around the shops a bit," said Seamus with a smile. I nodded my head. The meeting session wasn't until three so I figured this gave us an hour for lunch and two hours or so to shop. I didn't have a ton of money, but I couldn't pass up picking up some candy from Honeyduke's.

"When are you guys heading over?" I asked, looking at Ginny with a small smile. She blushed slightly at my comment, but Dean merely shrugged.

"Relatively soon," said Dean. "I am assuming we will be seeing you later?" Dean asked me, with his eyebrows raised.

"Of course," I said. "Well, let's get going," I said to Seamus, giving him a little nudge before waving goodbye to Ginny.

You better not tell Dean! Ginny screamed in her thoughts at my back. I stifled a laugh...of course I wouldn't tell Dean because Dean already knew and was feeling just about the same way as her.

"So do you want to get some lunch at the Three Broomsticks? I could go for some butter beer," said Seamus, smiling contentedly.

"Yeah, that sounds great," I said with a smile.

The way to Hogsmeade went smoothly, Seamus and I have the usual small chat people usually have on their first date, when they are uncertain as to what conversation is okay and what conversation would be awkward. As we entered the main street I was glad that I had worn the sweater. It wasn't freezing cold, but it was definitely chilly, and in a tee-shirt I would have been an instant ice sickle.

"There's the Three Broomsticks and it doesn't look too crowded," said Seamus, pointing towards it, before taking my hand and guiding us over to the entrance. Again I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the feel of Seamus' hand. I guess it's funny how you don't realize an attraction towards a person until they point out their attraction towards you.

I was looking for a place to sit as Seamus went up to order us drinks and food, when I rammed straight into someone's back.

"Oh, I am so sorry!" I said to the person. I stopped and laughed when the person turned around and I saw it was Harry.

"It's okay," said Harry with a smile. "I thought you were eating with Seamus?" said Harry, looking around the area to try and spot him.

"Oh, I am. He is just getting food while I try and find a place to sit. Where are Ron and Hermione?"

"They went to the Hogs Head to set things up," said Harry with a shrug.

I raised an eyebrow at him. "Four hours early?"

Harry gave me an eye roll. "I figured Ron was looking for some alone time with her, and he wasn't man enough to ask her on a date, so I just let them go with it, you know?"

I nodded in understanding. "He still isn't sure that the feelings he has for her mean what we know they mean."

"Yeah," said Harry shaking his head. "I don't think it could be more obvious."

"No, and I don't think it will actually happen until Hermione says it out loud for him to hear," I said, shaking my head as well.

We were silent for a couple of moments, my eyes wandering until I spotted Cho Chang sitting at a table by herself. She was eyeing Harry and I's conversation, wondering why he wasn't coming over to chat with her.

"Um...Cho looks kind of lonely," I said, discreetly cocking my head in her direction.

Harry subtly looked over and saw her there, before turning and looking back at me.

"I won't be mad, I mean, I am on a date with Seamus," I said with a small shrug.

Harry smiled nervously. "Yeah, I just wanted to make sure."

"Go," I said, giving him a sturdy shove in her direction. I watched Harry go over to her, their small chat as she insisted she didn't mind him joining her at all, and his body slinking into the chair across from her.

I felt the sting of jealousy creeping in, but I shoved it off. We were living our own lives now, remember?

"Hey, did you find somewhere to sit?" asked Seamus, as he walked towards me, skillfully juggling the drinks and baskets of food.

"I think there's a nice little booth in the corner," I said, pointing to the empty booth.

"Great," said Seamus with a smile, his eyes landing on Cho and Harry.

"It's alright," I said with a smile. "I'm not here with Harry, I'm here with you, so let's go sit down."

Seamus relaxed and lead the way over to the booth, setting the food down so we were next to each other. We ate our food and discussed school and the random gossip that was going around (me disproving some of it from the occasional thought that went through my head).

"Abby I want to do something and if you're not okay with it, you can stop me."

I looked at him, my heart rate picking up as the thought flashed through my mind. Seamus shifted himself so that I could only see him before leaning forward. I closed my eyes and felt my body relax as his lips made contact with mine. I was surprised to feel how smooth they were.

Seamus reached a hand up and placed it gently on the side of my face, before slightly opening my mouth with his lips. I reached up with my hand and held gently onto his wrist.

It was my first kiss and it was perfect.

Hello Allison. I can't believe you wrote such an incredible chapter! And I can't get over how natural and real everything is. You are very talented. I'm quite sure I feel wonderful about it if they turn an emerald green. I know it looks like Abby and Sheamus are hitting it off great, and you can't deny the way she feels when he holds her hand. And the kiss was perfect, but still there's this: I still have hope, and I'm not giving up! Just if Sheamus and Abby don't work out, please get him someone almost as wonderful as Abby.Great chapter Allison! I'll be watching for your next.

Glad that you're liking it Connie! Given my homework situation and other plans I am not sure I am going to be able to update, so I am doing another post now Enjoy!

By the time we were done with our meal and had gone into a couple of the shops it was just about time for our meeting at the Hogs Head. Seamus and I wandered over together, the wind picking up quite a bit. I was surprised to find that the Hogs Head was a bit beaten down, but Hermione wasn't kidding when she had said that no one ever came here. Except for Seamus and I, I couldn't see anyone within 300 feet of the place.

I pushed open the door to the little place and stepped up, jumping slightly at the appearance of a goat head peeking at me from around the corner of the counter. It gave a definite goat noise in my direction, before taking cover again behind the counter. I always got a feeling that some animals could sense how different I was. After all, you'd be surprised what goes through the mind of your every day dog or cat.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione were sitting in three chairs at the front of the room, one empty one next to Harry which I was sure was mine. I gave Seamus's hand a little squeeze before going up and taking my seat next to Harry. As I looked around at all the people I was pleased to see that there really was a very good turnout. Even some of the kids who didn't really act like they believed Harry were there.

"Alright, now that you are all here, I think it's time we start discussing the reason for our session," Hermione said, standing up and looking at everyone. "As you all know Professor Umbridge is not helping us learn how to defend ourselves or how to pass our O.W.L.s. So the four of us were thinking it would be good to take the initiative and find our own way to practice and learn these spells."

Everyone was starring at Hermione blankly. "So what was it like seeing Cedric die?" someone near the back called out.

"Yeah, is it really true that You-Know-Who killed him?" another voice called out. I could feel the shock going through Hermione's body as the questions kept coming.

"Listen Hermione, we should just go, obviously they are all here because they think I am a freak," Harry mumbled, starting to button up his coat.

"So how exactly did Cedric die?" another person yelled out.

Infuriated I stood up, my chair smacking into the wall behind me. "ENOUGH!" I yelled out, and everyone went quiet. "Honestly, enough! If you just came here to try and harass Harry about the horrible experience that he went through last year, then get the hell out of here!"

Everyone's eyes got wide as they looked at me. Even Harry, who was watching me intently seemed surprise. "Whether you want to believe or not, You-Know-Who is back, and this toad of a Defense Against the Darks Art teacher is doing nothing to prepare us. So if you are interested in learning how to defend yourself and useful spells, then by all means stay and listen to what we have to say. If not, then locate the door and walk through it. Is that clear?"

Everyone was completely silent. Even the bartender had paused mid glass cleaning to look at me, and the goat's little face had reappeared again to see what all the fuss was about. Once I was sure that none of them were going to leave I sat back down, and crossed my legs.

"Is it true that you can produce a Patronus Harry?" Luna asked in her whimsical way.

"Yes he can, I've seen it," Hermione said with a bright smile.

"And he used the sword in Dumbledore's office during my first year to kill the Basilisk. I was there," said Ginny with a proud nod in Harry's direction.

"Wow, I didn't know you could do that," said Dean, general amazement in his eyes.

Harry stood up. "Wait, wait. Listen, I know what you guys are thinking, okay? When you say it in the ways that you are it makes me sound really impressive and skilled, but the truth is I'm really not. Most of the time I just get lucky."

"Don't sell yourself short mate," said Ron.

"I'm not, I'm just being honest."

"The point Harry is trying to make is that you don't have to be an incredible spell caster or know hard spells in order to survive," I said, looking at Harry with encouraging eyes.

Harry looked at me and mouthed thanks. "She's right. You'd be surprised how even the basic spells can go a long way."

"Can you teach us Harry?" asked Neville, nervous excitement coming through.

"I can try," said Harry, with a confident nod.

Everyone was quiet in thoughts for a moment. I pleased to hear that most of them were starting to believe that Harry was on to something.

"Where do we sign up?" yelled out Seamus from the back.

Hermione smiled brightly. "We have a piece of parchment paper up here, and a quill, so just come on up and write your name down if you're interested."

Smiles went across all four of our mouths as everyone in the room came up and wrote their names, some of them giving words of encouragement to Harry and words of thanks to all of us for coming up with the idea. Once the entire room had cleared out, we folded up the piece of paper and placed it into Hermione's bag.

"Well, that went really well. I think everyone signed up," said Ron with an encouraging smack on the back of Harry's shoulder.

"It really did, didn't it. Thanks to Abby's firm tone from the beginning," said Hermione, giving me a little nudge.

"Eh, someone needed to set our intentions straight," I said with a little shrug.

As Harry and Ron went a little ahead to talk about where we should hold these lessons, Hermione hung back.

"So, how was your date with Seamus?"

"It was really good. We actually...well we kissed," I said, my cheeks flushing a little.

Hermione let out a little squeal of excitement. "That is so exciting! How was it?" said Hermione reminding me of a little school girl who just passed a note to her crush.

"It was perfect," I said, still at a loss of words on how to describe it well enough. "He was just so gentle, you know?"

"Yeah, I do," said Hermione with a smile. "Krum was always very gentle with his kisses as well, which I know is hard to believe."

We both laughed. Hermione looked at me thoughtfully. "Any regrets?" she asked.

I looked at her. "Regrets...I don't regret kissing Seamus, I guess I just always thought Harry would be my first kiss. Or hoped I should say."

Hermione nodded in understanding. "Yeah, I understand. I always hoped Ron would be mine."

I put my hand on her shoulder. "Who knows, maybe one day our dreams will come true."

"Yeah, I think they will," said Hermione, with a strong determination in her eyes. "It's just all about the timing."

Hello Allison. I was shocked to not see my comment here. I happened to catch your new post just minutes after you posted, and I commented right then. Oh well, I'll just put up another. Yeah, they were the idiots that wanted to hear the story of how Cedric died. Thank you Abby! Good job there. They needed put in their places. I still have high hopes!
Great post Allison. Take care of your school work. I won't pressure you to post as soon as you can. School is tough and even after you struggle with getting that work done, there is life to live. Take it easy, and enjoy your life. I'll just be watching for your next post whenever you get it up.

PAMS! I seriously lurve ur story! wat is it wiv u! genious!!!!!
keep up the good work! i can't wait for the next chapter xxxxxx

Aww thanks Jenny! And thanks to you as well Connie

The rest of the walk back to Hogwarts, and the next couple of days, was filled with discussions on what our first secret meeting would be about, where it would be held, and how we would inform everyone of its whereabouts without the overbearing Umbridge from finding out.

Neville had conveniently found a location for our first meeting, and was eager to show us after our History of Magic class. We all filed out, hoping that no one would notice our eager faces.

“So where is it again?” whispered Ron as a couple of nosey first years from Hufflepuff walked past us, eyeing us like hawks.

“It’s on the seventh floor near one of the portraits. You have to walk past it three times, thinking about what you need, and after the third time a door will appear.”

“So if we walk past it and think that we need a private room to practice spells…” Harry said, trailing off.

“Then it should give it to us,” said Hermione with a smile.

“It’s bloody brilliant!” said Ron with an enthusiastic smile.

We quickly went up the stairs in the grand staircase, Ron running right through Nearly Headless Nick, who gave him a curious stare. “Watch where you’re going dear boy!” Nicolas called out after us.

“Yeah, yeah, sure thing!” yelled back Ron as we closed the door to the seventh floor corridor.

We were in luck. The entire corridor was empty. To be quite honest no one came to the seventh floor corridor, except those who were looking for the Divination classroom. All these aspects just kept making the Room of Requirements an even better place to hold our meetings.

“Alright, here it is,” said Neville, stopping in front of a portrait of a rather ugly looking troll…or at least it kind of looked like a toad.

“Alright, so let’s walk past the room and think we need a private room to practice spells,” said Hermione, looking at each of us to make sure we understood.

“Sounds good,” said Harry. We began to walk back and forth in front of the portrait, looking like soldiers marching in formation, until we all stopped in unison.

“Bloody hell,” said Ron, his mouth falling open.

I was sharing similar sentiments. Where the picture had once been there was now a huge wooden door with brass-sculptured metal decorating it.

“Shall we?” said Neville, leading the way through the doors.

We all followed him in, closing the door behind us, and admired the huge room. The room was completely open, with practice dummies lined along each side with huge bulls eyes painted on their chests. The walls were covered in mirrors so we could see ourselves as we practice our spells, and stuffed in the corners were random objects that could also be used to cast spells on.

“Way to go Neville,” said Harry, giving him a genuine smack on the back. “It looks like Hogwarts isn’t too found of the toad either.”

We all chuckled at Harry’s joke, and went further in the study the dummies and such. I ran my hand along the wooden chest of the one, which was at perfect height with me.

“So, we still need to find a way to let everyone know about the meetings. Something more discreet than trying to whisper it to one another and hoping no one we don’t want to know hears,” said Hermione, plopping down on one of the pillows from the corner of the room.

“How about a coin?” I said.

“A coin?” said Ron, sitting down next to Hermione.

“Yeah, a coin. Like those secret decoder coins that muggle kids always play with.”

“I know what you’re talking about,” said Harry with a laugh. “We could send messages through them. Do you think you could come up with a charm Hermione?”

Hermione thought for a moment. “I think I have something in mind that could work. It’ll probably take me a couple of days to get them settled though.”

“That works,” said Harry with a nod, continuing to roam around the room.

“So what spell are you teaching us first Harry?” said Neville.

Harry turned around and looked at Neville. “I’m not sure. I haven’t really thought about it yet.”

“Well, just as a suggestion. The expelliarmus spell might work. I’ve always wanted to learn it, but no matter how much I practice I can’t do it.”

Harry smiled at Neville encouragingly. “Yeah sure Neville, we can do that one.”

There small chat started to mute in my mind as I continued to stare at the wooden figure in front of me. Something about it seemed so familiar. I closed my eyes, reaching out to where the memory might be coming from. My heart rate started to quicken as the memory started to come to me.

I jerked my eyes open at the feel of Harry’s hand on my shoulder. “You alright Abby?”

“Uh, yeah, I’m fine,” I said, turning around to face him.

“Alright, let’s go. We’ve got some work to do,” said Hermione with a big smile.

As we walked out Harry stayed next to me. “You sure you’re okay?” Harry asked me quietly.

“Yeah, I’ve just remembered something is all.”

Hello Alison. I can't believe how super your ff is. I've always loved it, but, it keeps getting better and better! Although I liked the book version of Dobby telling Harry about the room of requirements, I'm happy Neville gets to have some stardum. He could use the confidence booster. This is very curious Allison! Why is she drawn to this one? Are the dummies special to each person, or just this one to Abby for some reason? OK, so apparently this one is special to Abby, but what is she remembering? Arg!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why did he pick right then to put his hand on her? I mean, yeah, I wanted it to happen, but at a time when she'd be able to see that Harry could make her heart skip a beat just like Sheamus does. And I notice she didn't smile when she told him she was just remembered something. Is it not a good memory? Ah good! Harry knows something is amiss. I hope she can tell him.
Great post Allison. I'll be watching for your next.

You're making me blush with all these nice compliments.

The walk back to the common room seemed to go in slow motion, but I needed to get away for a moment.

"I'm going to go to the bathroom," I said with my best attempt at a smile. "I'll meet you guys up in the common room?"

"Yeah, sure," said Hermione, eyeing me curiously, but letting it go. Harry and her could tell something was off, but Ron and Neville were pretty oblivious...as usual I supposed.

Once they were out of distance I fast walked down the corridor, going back through the doors to the stairway, heading right, and going back through the door to the seventh floor corridor. Making sure that no one else was around me I went in front of the ugly troll portrait. Taking a deep breath I walked back and forth in front of the portrait, stopping once I saw the familiar wooden doors appeared. I quickly pushed them open, before slamming them shut, and headed back over to the wooden dummy.

The memory came flooding back to me as I put my hand against it.

I was only two or so years old, but somehow I could still remember it. I had been sitting in my living room, my dad doing something in the kitchen, and my mother and grandmother were sitting on the couch. I was playing with paint, rubbing my hands over the smooth wooden canvas my grandmother had brought me. It was magically bewitched so that with one wipe of my hand I could put color on it, but with another wipe the other direction the entire board would be clean. I would just sit there, amused by it for hours.

"Listen to me mother, everything is fine," my mom had snapped as I formed a red dot right in the center of the canvas.

"Are you sure? You can't honestly believe that that one year old boy actually finished him off? You know he will come for Abby," my grandmother said, her voice firm.

"Mother, Dumbledore thinks that she is safe for now. Of course we have our guard up and of course we are watching her like a hawk."

"I'm not sure that Dumbledore is always right about these things, you know? You know Voldemort better than anyone."

"I think Dumbledore knows him better," my mother said back curtly.

My grandmother scoffed. "No, you definitely know him better. He has always been obsessed with you, ever since he figured out what you are."

"He's not interested in me anymore. Voldemort is powerful enough in his own ways," my mother said with a shrug of the shoulder.

"Oh, and you think that will stop him? Please Maria. You know that he won't just stop."

"Mother I know that, but there is no point in frightening that poor child."

I had started to form little yellow pedals around the edge of the red dot in the center, making what I hoped would be an attractive flower. I could sense, even then, that there was tension in the air. I turned to look at my mom and grandmother. They smiled at me warmly, so I turned back to my painting.

"Just promise me, you will tell her one day," my grandmother said, taking my mom's hand into her own.

"Of course I will tell her! If not she'll find out on her own one way or another."

"It would be better if she heard it from you."

My mother sighed. "I know. But maybe he'll forget about Abby," my mom said, hope coming into her body.

"Forget about her?" my grandmother asked skeptically.

"Yes, I mean obviously he is weak now because of Harry, and perhaps, if he does come back, he will end up going after Harry."

My grandmother was silent for a couple of moments. "And your vision?"

"Could be wrong," my mother said stiffly.

"Since when have they ever been wrong? Listen to me Maria he is going to come for Abby because he knows how vital Abby will be to Harry."

"And how would he know that?" my mother asked.

My grandmother stared at her. "You know how he knows."

My mother rolled her eyes. "Okay, but we can handle it."

"Can we?" my grandmother asked.

I could feel my mother staring at her, looking but not really seeing.

"We have to handle it."

My grandmother let out a sigh. "We will handle it." My grandmother reached out and pulled my mother into a hug.

I tried to ignore my mother's silent sobs, but I couldn't help it. In fury at my family's sadness, I ran my hand down the canvas, completely wiping away the flower.


I removed my hand from the wooden dummy that felt so similar to the wooden canvas, the bulls eye so similar to the red dot of my flower.

"Oh mom," I whispered softly. My grandmother and her knew how important I would be. They knew how my abilities were going to help Harry. They knew that if Harry hadn't hurt Voldemort at his house he was going to come and kill me. And they knew above all else that Voldemort wasn't going for Harry first this time, he was going for me.

My mother had seen that I would help Harry, that I would have to take the last step before Harry could really finish him off.

My mother saw me die.

My mother had no idea how to stop it.

Hello Allison. I am sitting here not knowing what to say. You have outdone yourself. It is so sad what Abby is remembering. It was a brilliant chapter. I really don't know what to say. I hope Harry and Abby work something out so she doesn't have to die. Great post Allison. I'll be watching for your next. I only write the truth when I comment on ff's. You deserve everything that is said from me.

Thank you so much Connie! I know I seem to post a lot and then have space between my posts, but whenever the mood hits, I write, so here is another one. Hope you enjoy!!

I had walked back to the common room slowly, feeling like I was physically there but not mentally. When was my mother planning to tell me? What exactly had she seen in that vision that her and my grandmother were so frightened of? If my grandmother was still alive, would she have told me already?

"Abby, are you with us?" Hermione asked, waving her hand in front of my face.

"Yeah, sorry. I'm just tired," I said with a shrug. Hermione raised an eyebrow at me, clearly not believing that my being tired was the source of my mood.

"I've seen you tired. Something else is up."

"Listen, I need to go talk to Dumbledore for a minute. Talk to you later?"

Before Hermione even had a chance to respond, or Harry and Ron even knew what was going on, I was up and leaving the common room. I could hear them whispering, and a couple of Gryffindors eyeing me curiously, but I ignored them. I needed answers and Dumbledore needed to give them to me.

I passed by Peeves who tried to entice me to comment back to his snide remarks, but I ignored him. By the time I got to the statue in front of Dumbledore's office Peeves realized I wasn't in the mood and flew off. Plus we both knew he wouldn't dare try something in such close proximity to the Headmaster. Peeves was a nuisance, but he wasn't stupid.

I mumbled butter beer to the statue, unsure if that was still the password, and was lucky to find that it was. I walked up the steps and knocked impatiently on the door, uncertain as to whether or not he was busy. At this point I really didn't care. Panic was creeping through my normally calm and composed figure.

"Come in," Dumbledore responded, curious as to who it was.

I pushed open the door and somewhat slammed it behind me. Perhaps my anger should be more directed at my mother for not telling me, but Dumbledore was closer, and Dumbledore was just as guilty.

"Why didn't you tell me?" I practically yelled at him.

Dumbledore tilted his head so that he was looking at me over the top of his spectacles. "I am sorry Abby, tell you what exactly?"

"Tell me about my mother's vision of me dying at Voldemort's hands?"

The room got so quiet that you could have heard a pin drop. The portraits of previous headmasters all had their eyes on me as a spoke, then shifting to Dumbledore's. Clearly they were just as surprised by my rudeness as Dumbledore was.

"Your mother asked me not to," Dumbledore replied lightly.

"Mhm. And when was my mother planning to tell me? Or did she just assume I would remember the conversation she had with my grandmother when I was two?"

Dumbledore set down the quill he had been holding in his hand and leaned back in his chair.

"Abby, naturally you can see how this would be a difficult conversation for your mother to have with you. After all no mother wants to tell her only child that she has foreseen that she is going to die, and that she has no idea how to stop it."

I hadn't even noticed that my hands were in tight fists until I started to feel the pain from my nails indenting my skin.

"I don't care if it's difficult. I deserve to know!"

Dumbledore nodded. "Of course you do. And now you know."

I stared at Dumbledore. "That's not the point. Is this why you brought me into the Order?"

"Partly, but mostly because I feel you will be an asset to our cause."

"Yeah, I'm going to be a great asset," I scoffed.

"Abby, you must know that we are doing everything in our power to make sure that the vision your mother had doesn't come true."

I shifted my weight back and forth on my feet. "How does it happen?"

"How does what happened?" Dumbledore asked, not wanting to answer my question.

"How do I die?"

Dumbledore exhaled slowly. "Harry and Voldemort are dueling, and as you try to help Harry who is losing, Voldemort hits you with the killing curse."

I stared at him. "You're lying."

Dumbledore raised his eyebrows. "You can tell that can you?"

"Of course I can tell!" I said, coming forward and slamming my hands down on his desk. "I can read your mind! I can read everyone's mind! You know I never asked to be able to do what I can do. Did my mother never tell me about the vision because she was afraid I wouldn't be friends with Harry if she did?"

"No, your mother did not want this fact to influence your decisions. She knows how much you care for Harry, as we all do."

"So tell me the truth then! How do I die?"

Dumbledore exhaled again. "Abby you know the more you believe it, the better the chances are it will come true. It can still change."

"Professor Dumbledore I rarely ask anything of anyone. I bite my tongue and do as I am asked, but I will not stand here and let you lie to me. Either you tell me exactly what my mother saw or so help me I will leave the Order and never help you again!"

Dumbledore was stunned into silence, as were the portraits who all had raised their eyebrows.

"How dare you speak to a Headmaster this way!" one called out. I didn't look to see who it was.

"Alright Abby. Please, take a seat."

I practically slammed my body into the chair.

"You were sixth months old when your mother had the vision. It is not normal for phoenix animagis to be able to see so far into the future, but your mother is very powerful. I'm sure you could imagine this from the vision you saw between your mother and Tom."

I nodded in understanding.

"When a phoenix animagi transforms for the first time, they are presented with a choice...a ritual if you will. I don't think Professor McGonagall has gotten to this in your lessons yet as you are just beginning the process."

I shook my head. "No, she hasn't mentioned anything yet."

"Every phoenix has the ability to heal, via their tears, as you know. Phoenixes posses the gift of life. As a phoenix animagi, you have the ability to choose someone to give the gift of life to."

I stared at him. "I'm not following."

"You can choose someone to be the guardian of. If you pick someone to guardian, if they die by something other than natural causes, they are given your gift of life. The person will be brought back to life, and their guardian will take death in their place."

I was silent. "So, my mom saw me being Harry's guardian?"

Dumbledore nodded. "In your mother's vision she saw Voldemort killing Harry, but as soon as the killing curse made contact with him, rather than him dying, you died."

"So, isn't the solution for me to not agree to be Harry's guardian?"

"It would seem. But unfortunately we are not sure as to what circumstances you became Harry's guardian. All we know is that Voldemort believes you are a clutch that will save Harry from him. So, whether you decide not to be his guardian or not, Voldemort still believes you are a problem that needs to be taken care of."

I stared at Dumbledore, a rush of emotions going through my body. "But what if Harry can't defeat Voldemort without me being his guardian?"

Dumbledore leaned forward so his arms were resting on his desk. "I wish I had answers for you Abby, but I just don't know. By being a guardian, you give that person strength physically and magically. Could Harry only defeat Voldemort with the stronger magic you can give him, or can he do it without?"

"What do you think?" I asked.

"I think Harry can do it without."

I nodded. "But what if he can't?"

Dumbledore stared at me. "I don't know. But I do know that Harry must be the one to defeat Voldemort."

"And how do you know that?" I asked. "Wait...the prophecy the Order is guarding..."

Dumbledore nodded solemnly. "Professor...if I can help Harry defeat Voldemort by becoming his guardian, then I will do it! We are talking about the entire magical world changing if Voldemort beats Harry."

Dumbledore nodded again, tears in his eyes starting to form.

"Professor...?" I said, my voice getting quiet.

Dumbledore reached out and took my hand in his. He didn't have an answer, and he didn't have a solution.

It was my choice. Would I die to help Harry defeat Voldemort or would I chose life?

The silence was deafening. I had never felt so alone.