The Lost Black (The Predestined Trilogy - Bk 1) (A HP FanFic)

Chapter 12: The Start of an Army

 "She just has to put her hands into everything, doesn't she?" Zendaya frowned as we stared up at the new post on notice board. Umbridge that morning had enacted Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four: all clubs, organizations, teams, etcetera, must be approved by Umbridge, or face expulsion. Talk about extremity for punishment.

There were worried murmurs from the other students about some of their clubs. However, Malfoy was overly confident that the Slytherin Quidditch team will be certainly approved.

"She's power hungry," I shrugged. "And Fudge is more than happy to give her all the power she wants if it has to do with Hogwarts."

There was an agreeable grunt behind me from Arthur.

"As long as she doesn't mess with my Ancient Runes club, I won't have too much issue with this." Zendaya turned her back to the notice board and we made our way out of the Common Room and up to the Great Hall for breakfast.

"Hey Arthur, have you finished that essay for Sprout, yet?" I asked as we walked.

Arthur gave his confirming grunt.

"If I would have known better, I would have asked Potter about his experience with Gillyweed," Zendaya huffed. "I'm certain he used it during the second trial of the Triwizard Tournament last year."

"Well, the essay isn't due until Wednesday, so there's still time," I laughed.

We entered the Great Hall and took our seats at our normal place - near the front of the hall closest to the faculty table. I was surprised Arthur joined us, as he normally takes his meal times alone.

"How's your Ancient Runes coming along?" Zendaya asked me, loading her plate with toast.

"Could be better," I admitted, then sighed. "I think I may have to pull another all-nighter tonight. I keep getting laguz and isa mixed up."

"Hoot!"

Brida flew down and landed on the seat next to me and stuck out her leg which held a letter. I took the letter and gave her an owl treat that I had stowed away in my bag. As she nibbled, I read the letter. A tawny owl flew down to Zendaya, carrying the day's Daily Prophet and a small hawk owl delivered a letter to Arthur.

Amelia,

Hope all is well and that you are settling nicely into Hogwarts. I just wanted to let you know that I will be meeting with Severus soon and to discuss your situation more thoroughly since I am not there to help you during this time. While I know he is not the ideal person to confide in with such things, but I know that you know that you can trust him completely.

Remember that.

Also, I know it's that time of the year and I must remind you: stay out of trouble. You know dangerous times are ahead and you need to catch up to everyone else. As much as it frustrates me, you are a fighter, Amelia. And I know you will not sit aside, which is why I need you to focus on your schoolwork.

Everyone says hello and that they miss you.

As do I.

Love you,

Mom

I smiled at the letter, returning to my muffin and enjoying the peaceful breakfast. I glanced over at the Gryffindor table where Harry, Ron, and Hermione had their heads together, surely discussing Umbridge's new decree and worrying about the D.A.. But I smiled at them, knowing that everything was following the plot just right. I'm certain that within the next twenty-four hours, Harry will find out about the Room of Requirement and then we can get Dumbledore's Army off the ground and running.