Author's Note: Hope you enjoy this chapter! Thank you so much for the follows and favorites! :D I can't believe this story has got a little over 450 followers and 300 favorites! It's awesome! :D

Midnight Penguin: She's actually meeting with Dumbledore this chapter :)

Lavendor Queen: I think my brain was so frazzled from trying to write a sex scene that I completely forgot about protection—this chapter takes care of that though—thanks for pointing it out :)

Thank you to everyone leaving feedback! I love seeing what you think about the story :D

Review shout-out: Ussmaple, MidnightPenguin, haleygur7, Yuuki no Yuki, Vienna22, 19irene96, Lavendor Queen, Justforloveknows, convalla91, and bechilldarling! Thank you :)

I do not own any of the Harry Potter characters or anything else resembling what J.K Rowling introduced us all to. Just the plot and OC are mine.


Chapter 37

Avalynn's eyes were squeezed shut as mountains and pines sprung to life, forming the landscape of her mind. The presence in her head slithered through the terrain, intent on finding her secrets. Not today, Severus. She shaped a trail, blocking him in-between dense trees, leading him away from her memories related to the truth of her existence and her knowledge of the future. However, her friend was truly testing her as his will broke through the tree line and dashed away from her intended path. Clenching her jaw, Ava quelled the urge to force him out of her mind and decided to try another tactic. She conjured up childhood memories of when she felt embarrassed or insecure, purposefully humiliating herself, sprouting those detours along the direction Severus was wandering.

Both Severus and Regulus agreed that if someone was looking for secrets or valuable information, memories that placed her in a vulnerable position, even if they were insignificant to the intruder's overall purpose for invading her mind, would provide a decent distraction. While her attacker would be tempted with gaining potential blackmail, she could rebuild her mental shield before pushing the foreign presence out or wait until the person tired and withdrew. This solution would be useful until Ava was at the level of being able to provide pieces of real memories mixed with false to create an overall believable memory to offer someone invading her mind.

Unpleasant images from various parties, school hallways, and class presentations filtered through her head for another minute or so before Severus pulled himself out, and Ava's vision cleared. Waiting for a progress report, her gaze flickered back and forth between the two Slytherins standing in the Room of Requirement across from her.

"You've come a long way," Severus said, smiling.

Regulus elbowed him with a grin. "Coming from Severus, that's high praise."

She huffed out a laugh. "Oh, I know. I'll cherish this moment forever."

Severus rolled his eyes. "You really have improved, you know. I'm certain you could keep out most Legilimens, but if it were a situation where it would be more prudent to allow them access, I think you'd fair well distracting them with other memories. Hopefully, it'll never come to that, but I'd rather have you prepared."

She chewed her lip for a moment before asking, "Do you think my shield would hold against Dumbledore?"

His eyebrows disappeared into his hairline while Regulus' mouth hung open.

Ava wrung her hands together. "Do you think it would hold?" she repeated.

Severus narrowed his eyes. "And why exactly would you like to know?"

"I'd like to meet with him sooner rather than later about moving against Voldemort. I didn't approach him initially because I didn't trust him to not demand the entire truth or mold me into a weapon or something, but I can't exactly duel Voldemort by myself, can I?" The boys stared at her in silence. "I don't think the Headmaster will try to read my mind necessarily, though I do have a plan if it comes to that, if he doesn't trust me enough to listen I mean." Regulus opened his mouth, but she continued. "Aunt Minerva and I are meeting with him tomorrow, so she'll be there. I highly doubt Dumbledore will try to manipulate me, mentally or otherwise, while she's with me."

Severus scoffed. "I certainly hope not."

"I would think that the destroyed Horcrux would be enough evidence that you don't support the Dark Lord," Regulus said.

Ava nodded. "We'll see tomorrow. So, anything else you guys want to practice tonight?"

Severus cast Tempus and muttered a curse. "We've only got fifteen minutes before curfew."

"Damn," she said with wide eyes.

Regulus chuckled. "We weren't just being nice when we said that you've improved, Ava. Your endurance and stamina is much better that it used to be."

Severus turned from them and grabbed his schoolbag from the study table the Room provided. "Come, if we hurry, we won't get caught."

Ava shook her head as she approached the table. "No, it's fine. I don't want to chance you two getting detention just for being polite. I can walk down to my quarters on my own."

"You sure?" he asked with a quirked brow.

"We can still walk with her until we've got to split off," Regulus reminded him while shouldering his bag.

Severus seemed to mull over the idea before giving Ava a nod. The three of them left the Room of Requirement and descended the floors of the quiet, dimly light castle until they needed to break off in separate directions. Parting with a wave goodbye, Ava headed down the stairs while the boys spun the opposite way, down the corridor to the stairs on the other side of the castle which led to the dungeons.

She was halfway down the staircase when it shuddered and began to shift. With a gasp, Ava clutched onto the stone railing for dear life, not having experienced one of the moving sets of stairs before. "Jesus Christ," she muttered. "Really? Right now? This is when you decide to have some fun with me? Right before curfew?" She rolled her eyes and waited for the ride to come to a full and complete stop before continuing down the steps. Taking a look at her surroundings, she was grateful to find she recognized the corridor. It held a handful of classrooms and the library branched off the far end, with another set of stairs just past there that she could use to get down to the next floor.

As she walked down the hallway, Ava's thoughts ran through her homework assignments before drifting to review her plan on how to handle Dumbledore the next day if he proved obstinate, but a chorus of whispers grabbed her attention. It sounded as though a group of people were quietly arguing around the corner, which was exactly where she needed to pass. Normally, she would've just kept her head down and scurried past the students, but Ava could've sworn she heard the words "Dark Lord" uttered.

Her feet froze in place as she quickly palmed her wand and cast a Disillusionment Charm on herself. She tiptoed along the edge of the corridor, right to the end, and paused. More whispers and hushes reached her ears, so she leaned forward and carefully peered around the corner. I should've known, she thought, spotting Lucius Malfoy standing with Avery, McNair, and Goyle. She noticed Avery and Malfoy were holding old texts that they had clearly checked out from the library. Even Death Eaters have got to study apparently, she mused. Even though she was practically invisible, Ava knew it'd be just her luck that one of the Slytherins would be able to identify the subtle sheen of magic that coated someone under a Disillusionment Charm, so she stayed put and listened.

"…and it'll have to be enough for now," Malfoy whispered.

Someone scoffed.

"You can't tell him no, Lucius," a deep voice said, sounding more like Goyle than the others.

"Yeah, Malfoy. Our Dark Lord isn't one to suffer idiots or cowards."

Her stomach turned over, realizing this was a conversation she definitely didn't want to be caught eavesdropping in on.

"I've already made my pledge, and I will take the mark, but only after graduation," Malfoy said. "That doesn't make me a coward, just intelligent. Why would I risk my education and freedom now when I can perform a task to prove my loyalty when I'm no longer under the watchful eye of Dumbledore?"

A grunt sounded that Ava could only interpret as agreement.

"Well, I'm not going to wait. We'll be home for Christmas Break, so that's when I'll prove my loyalty. Plus, I'm already seventeen, so I don't have the trace anymore." The creepy delight laced in the tone of the speaker made Ava think it was McNair speaking.

"What are you planning on offering?" Goyle asked.

"I think our Lord would appreciate some Muggles to play with," McNair said, exuding confidence.

Ava's skin crawled. Granted, she knew that some of the Death Eaters had no qualms about murder or torture, but she hadn't thought it was a trait the followers had prior to joining Voldemort's ranks. He was still just a seventeen-year-old kid. Though, Voldemort did make his first Horcrux before leaving Hogwarts, she admitted.

"Don't you think that's a bit much?" Malfoy drawled. "Although with your skill set, I suppose barbaric torture is the best your primitive mind could come up with."

Sounds of scuffling reached her ears.

"Careful now, McNair." Malfoy's tone was ice cold. "Wouldn't want to lose your favorite piece of equipment."

Ava took a chance to peek around the corner once more and bit her lip to hold back a laugh. Goyle was forcing McNair's arms behind his back while Malfoy had his wand fixed on the brute's crotch. Avery stood off to the side with his arms crossed, looking bored.

"As entertaining as your quarreling is, I'd like to make it back to our common room before curfew," Avery said before heading towards the corridor Ava was hiding in.

Shit. She retreated a few steps and pressed her back against the castle wall, taking shallow breaths. The cool tingle over her body reassured Ava that the Disillusionment Charm was still in place. As long as she stayed still, the Slytherins shouldn't spot her.

Curses and stomping feet echoed down the hallway, and she steeled her nerves right as McNair stormed around the corner, with Avery following closely. Just a moment later, Goyle and Malfoy turned down the corridor, and Goyle's schoolbag swayed a little too close for comfort. Ava sucked in a breath as his bag nearly collided with her. After he passed, she glanced up to find Malfoy standing in the middle of the hallway, his narrowed eyes cautiously roving over the section of the castle wall where she happened to be plastered against. Motherfucker. How am I supposed to explain this? There's four of them. Shit. I'm going to get my ass kicked.

"Lucius?" Goyle called out, a ways down the corridor now.

The blond haired wizard waved his friend on. "I left something in the library. Go on ahead, I'll be right behind you."

Thank you baby Jesus, Ava thought, relief flooding her body. Malfoy might be a prick, but she didn't think he'd tear her to shreds on his own. I might be able to take him. She quickly determined which spells she'd launch at him as she raised her wand.

His eyes lit up. "Found you," he muttered before casting Revelio quicker than she could've prepared for.

Fuck me. Ava could feel the cool cover of her charm evaporate, exposing her to Malfoy, and her fingers curled tighter around her Blackthorn.

Surprise flickered across his face before he was able to school his angular features, but he couldn't hide the interested gleam in his gray eyes. "Miss McGonagall. You're not who I expected to find sneaking around the castle at this hour." He hadn't put his wand away, but his arm had dropped back down to his side.

She swallowed. Being alone with any Death Eater was nerve-wracking, but at least he didn't appear hostile. "For the record, I was just trying to get back to my quarters."

Malfoy rose a pale eyebrow. "And yet here you are."

Ava tried to think of a decent excuse, but came up blank.

He tilted his head slightly and smirked. "You know, your behavior is more befitting of a Slytherin than a Gryffindor—lurking in the shadows to conspire against your perceived enemies."

Her lips curled into a small smile. "The Sorting Hat actually considered placing me there."

Malfoy let out a deep chuckle. "We would've eaten you alive, little lion," he said, taking a couple steps closer to her.

Ava moved to retreat from him, but her back was already up against the wall. Dread pooled in her stomach. "I didn't hear anything, if that's what you're worried about," she blurted.

He crept closer and dropped his voice. "What exactly were you hoping to gain from eavesdropping on a conversation you had no business listening to?"

Her brain seemed to short circuit as his arms caged her in. She had been prepared for an angry assault, not this commanding, but soft approach Malfoy seemed to be taking. His proximity allowed for his expensive cologne to waft up her nostrils. Bleh, too much. Why is he so close?

His eyes were locked on hers. "Since you more than likely overheard something you shouldn't have, it's only fair you reciprocate."

Ava's brow furrowed.

"Tell me a secret, Avalynn. Something no one else knows," he whispered, his minty breath fanning her face.

Is he trying to seduce information out of me? she wondered incredulously. Her tongue flicked out, wetting her lips to speak, and she noticed Malfoy's eyes darting down to watch the movement. Is he seriously coming onto me? She couldn't decide if she was amused or terrified. "Aren't you marrying Narcissa Black?" rushed out of her mouth before she could stop it.

Malfoy's gaze drifted back up to hers and he cocked a brow. "Yes. What does that have to do with anything?"

Ava shot him a look. "Really?" she asked, using what little space there was between them to gesture to his body.

His face scrunched up in disdain as he pulled away. "Don't be so uncouth, McGonagall. I was merely trying to—" he said, before tensing and narrowing his eyes. His arms shot out towards her, his fingers digging into her shoulders as he shoved her backwards, pinning her against the castle wall.

"What the hell, Malfoy?" she snapped, the back of her head erupting in pain as it smacked the stone behind her.

He pressed one arm across Ava's chest, holding her in place, and jabbed his wand under her chin.

Her eyes widened as she grasped at his arms, attempting to pry him off of her. "What the actual fuck? I didn't do anything," she said, frantically squirming to break free.

"How do you know about my engagement to Narcissa?" he snarled. "We haven't announced it."

Holy shit. Not good. SO not good. "I—um, I—", Ava stuttered, mind whirling. I can't tell him the truth, she thought. But what the hell can I tell him? He pressed the tip of his wand harder against the underside of her chin as she scrambled for an explanation. "I just know things sometimes. Please, I didn't mean anything by it."

"What do you mean 'you know things'?" he asked with a frown. "What kind of things?" Though he hadn't released her, the anger in his voice had lessened and his wand faltered in its lethal position. "Like a Seer?"

"Yes! I can see glimpses of future events." She would've grabbed onto any lifeline thrown her way at that moment and was grateful that Malfoy had just unknowingly given her one. "I don't really know much about Seers, but that must be it." His eyes scrutinized her face, likely looking for any tell of deceit. "The, uh…visions are usually hazy and don't always happen the way I see them, but I saw you and Narcissa getting married."

His eyes stared deep into hers for a few tense moments before he dropped his arms and stepped away. Righting his robes, he asked, "You wouldn't be lying to me, would you, little lion?"

Ava held back an eye roll at his use of the condescending nickname. For a moment, his gaze bored into her very soul and she shivered as his presence tentatively slithered against her mind. Without hesitation, she lashed out, ejecting him from her head. "Talk about uncouth, Malfoy. Didn't your mother ever teach you not to poke your nose where you don't belong?" She stood with her hands resting on her hips, and startled when the Slytherin threw his head back and laughed.

He shook his head. "You are an utter delight, Miss McGonagall." He shot a charming smile at her. "Be thankful that Narcissa and I already signed our marriage contract, otherwise I might feel inclined to pursue you."

Her eyebrows shot up. "What? Besides the fact that I'm with Remus Lupin, I'm a Half-blood." She sneered. "I figured I was too dirty to mingle with someone so above my station."

He shrugged. "Half-bloods have their uses. Severus is quite adept with Potions and I know he creates spells in his spare time, proving that he has magical talent that shouldn't go to waste. You've progressed through classes at an accelerated rate, you've proven to have natural Slytherin attributes, which I applaud," he said with a smile, "I enjoy our repartee, and now you tell me that you're a Seer. Why wouldn't I be interested in a relationship with you?"

Ava's mouth hung open. This isn't anywhere near where she thought this confrontation would be heading when Malfoy discovered her. Before she could collect her thoughts, he continued.

"My mother did teach me manners, but she also taught me to respect Seers."

"Really?"

He nodded. "Her ancestors always put stock in Divination and prophecies and everything of that sort, and it's paid off every time over the centuries. I may not be as firm of a believer as my mother, but it would be foolish to ignore signs of a true Seer when one is standing in front of me."

She let out a breath. "So, you believe me?"

His face held an unreadable expression, but he nodded.

He stayed silent, but Ava could see the wheels turning in his head, probably trying to determine how to use the situation in his favor. "I want you to take a Wizard's Oath. Swear that you won't tell anyone what you know about me," she told him, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I'll keep your secret if you keep mine."

"What secret?" she asked nonchalantly.

He clicked his tongue. "I thought we were passed all that, McGonagall. Let's be candid, shall we?" His pointer finger tapped against his wand. "I'll swear to not reveal your abilities to anyone, but I would ask that I'm allowed to seek you out for…consultation on occasion."

Ava's eyebrows shot up. "That's not exactly how it works," she started to say, but he waved her off.

"I'm aware, and I won't hold it against you if your gifts don't prove useful in the long run."

She couldn't keep the surprised look from her face if she tried.

"Come now, little lion. I'm not unreasonable," he told her with a smirk.

"I'll believe it when I see it," she murmured, shaking her head. "So, basically, you'll swear, on your magic, that you'll keep this information to yourself as long as I tell you about any useful visions that I have?"

He nodded and began to open his mouth, but she interrupted him.

"Obviously, I'll offer you something in return." She pressed her lips together for a moment. "I'll swear to protect your identity as a Death Eater, but just you. Not the other boys." And maybe I can use this whole Seer thing to my advantage. Get Malfoy to understand what will really happen if he joins Voldemort.

Malfoy gave her a curious look, but nodded in agreement.

"I also want the right not to reveal any visions to you if they put people in danger," she added quickly.

His jaw clenched.

"But if I believe that it affects you directly, then I'll let you know," she said.

"I suppose that's reasonable," he grumbled.

"We have a deal then."

After several long moments of contemplating how to phrase her Oath, Ava insisted that Malfoy perform his first. He reluctantly complied, but gave her a look of approval. Once the pair finished completing their Wizard's Oaths, Malfoy dipped his head and said, "Goodnight, Miss McGonagall," before pivoting on his heel and strutting away from her.

Ava stared after him until he disappeared from sight, still reeling from their interaction. "Well, that was unexpected," she mumbled to herself.

"I'd certainly say so," a voice said.

With wide eyes, she whirled around, head spinning to find the person who managed to sneak up on her. She heard a chuckle and turned towards the source of the sound. It seemed to be coming from the castle wall. She squinted and took a few steps closer.

"Up here, witch," the same voice uttered.

Her eyes scaled the wall, taking in the portraits that hung there until movement caught her eye. A wizard was slowly pacing the length of his portrait, which appeared to be an office of some sort. He looked middle aged with his hair and pointed beard an inky black, and he was looking directly at her.

"Um, hi?" Ava greeted with a frown.

The wizard stopped walking and turned towards her with his hands clasped behind his back. He quirked an eyebrow. "Your lack of eloquence does you no favors, girl. Are you not the same witch who just negotiated a Wizard's Oath from the Malfoy heir?"

Her lips curved into a smile. "Clearly, I am since you offered your opinion on the matter. You must've witnessed the whole thing."

"Indeed," he said, returning her grin. "The Malfoy boy called you Miss McGonagall. Is it safe to assume that you are Avalynn McGonagall, the Professor's niece?"

She nodded.

"You've made quite the splash this year at Hogwarts, Miss McGonagall."

Her brow furrowed. "I have?"

He tsked. "Don't be silly, girl. It doesn't become you."

Ava nearly scoffed and opened her mouth to tell off the obnoxious portrait when he continued.

"You seemingly appeared out of nowhere, raised by Muggles, and began attending Hogwarts mere months ago, and yet your magical skills are nearly on par with your peers."

"So?"

The wizard let out a frustrated huff. "While there hasn't been a student in your exact predicament before, your rapid magical development is somewhat unheard of and rather intriguing."

Her stomach dropped. I don't want to be interesting. I just want to blend in. "Oh," she said, the worry in her tone obvious to even herself.

The annoyance on the wizard's face softened minutely. "You'll need to keep your wits about you, young lady."

Ava nodded absentmindedly, thoughts racing with the realization that she might've been drawing more attention to herself than she anticipated if even the portraits knew about her. And now they know I'm claiming to be a Seer, she bemoaned internally. At least Malfoy can't tell anyone. She focused on the portrait. "Who are you?"

The wizard bowed slightly, bending forward at his waist. "Phineas Nigellus Black at your service, ma'am."

Her eyebrows rose in surprise. I know you, she thought. "Oh? 'Ma'am', now is it? If you've heard about me, then you know I'm a Half-blood, right? That doesn't offend your delicate Pureblood sensibilities?"

He cleared his throat. "Well, as the Malfoy scion pointed out, Half-bloods can be contributing members of society. It's not as though you're a Mudblood." Ava rolled her eyes, causing the former Headmaster to laugh. "And that is precisely why you've landed yourself into Gryffindor, I'd imagine. Wearing your emotions and thoughts on your sleeve clear as day."

"Whatever. Keep your prejudices old man," she said, waving him off. "It only means you'll underestimate Muggleborns and Half-bloods, or anyone else you look down upon for no good reason."

Phineas narrowed his eyes and was silent for a few moments. "And that must be why the Sorting Hat thought you'd be a good fit in Slytherin."

Knowing that the portrait was a proud member of that House, Ava grinned widely. "Thank you, sir." She shifted on her feet. "Now, if you don't mind, it's gotta be after curfew by now and Aunt Minerva's not going to be pleased."

"Nonsense, young lady. I'll escort you myself."

Her mouth formed an "O" and before she could protest, Phineas walked through the office space in his portrait and appeared in the next one—a landscape with a meadow, blooming with wildflowers.

"We haven't got all night, Miss McGonagall," he called out.

She scrambled after him and walked briskly to keep up with his figure as he maneuvered through paintings. After having the wizard's company for only five minutes or so, Ava decided that she was glad that he offered to come along. While his demeanor was a bit prickly, he politely inquired about her current classes and how she was settling into Hogwarts, and seemed to be genuinely interested in hearing her thoughts. Ava informed him that she'd soon be testing out of Defense, Charms, and Transfiguration and moving into fifth, sixth, and fourth year, respectively. Every couple of questions, Phineas would circle back to her spell-casting abilities and extracurriculars, putting her on edge, but she brushed it off, ready to say goodbye at the door to her quarters.

Before she knew it, he had appeared in the portrait guarding the entrance and disappeared. With a frown, Ava muttered the password and stepped into the living room. Phineas hadn't gone far and was actually in her home, speaking to Aunt Minerva from a frame that hung above the mantle of the fireplace. Ava dropped her bag and joined the professor, soaking up the warmth from the fire. She looked up into what she thought had been a Muggle painting of a quaint cottage and made eye contact with Phineas before inspecting the rest of the framed image.

"I had no idea that this was a magical portrait," she thought aloud.

"Since it's just a landscape, it has no occupants. Usually, that is," Aunt Minerva said with a raised brow. Her gaze flicked between the painting and Ava a few times before she huffed. "I'll excuse your late return home this once since Phineas is claiming himself as the fault."

Ava's eyes widened slightly before she cleared her expression. "Right, uh, Headmaster Black here was just interested in how I was finding Hogwarts." I wonder why he didn't mention Malfoy or the others.

"That's right, Minerva," Phineas piped up. "Your niece here has quite the talent and we're all curious to see where it takes her."

Professor McGonagall glanced at Ava out of the side of her eye. "Yes, well. It's time for the talented witch to get ready for bed. We have a meeting with the Headmaster bright and early tomorrow."

She rolled her eyes with an exaggerated groan. "Don't remind me."

A chuckle from Phineas drew her attention. "Not a fan of Dumbledore, young lady?"

She gave him a mere shrug, turning towards her bedroom. "Goodnight, both of you," she threw over her shoulder before closing the door.

As Ava prepared for sleep, she became more aware of confusion and worry filtering into her mind from the bond to Remus. While brushing her teeth, she realized that he must've felt her panic and anxiety earlier when dealing with Malfoy, and decided to write him a note before going to sleep. This would be so much easier if I could just text him. I'll have to find something near instantaneous like that or maybe something like the DA coins. She penned him a quick letter explaining that there was nothing to worry about and that she couldn't wait to see him the next day.

"Flopsy?"

A loud crack sounded, announcing the arrival of the house elf. "Yes, Missus?"

Ava held out the folded piece of parchment. "Can you please take this to Remus Lupin? He should be in Gryffindor Tower."

Flopsy grinned as she took the letter. "Is Missus passing love notes to a boy?"

She blushed, feeling called out. "No, I just don't want him to worry."

Still smiling like a loon, Flopsy nodded. "Of course, Missus."

"Thank you," she told the house elf with an amused shake of her head.

Another pop signaled Flopsy's departure and Ava settled into bed, not quite sure she wanted to tell anyone of the deal she struck with Malfoy.


Ava glanced around the circular walls of the Headmaster's Office, knee bouncing slightly in anticipation. She kept one hand on the box resting atop her thighs to keep it steady, slowly taking in the bookshelves lining the walls, filled with texts and magical trinkets and contraptions. Her eyes skimmed over the portraits hung near the ceiling and settled on the bright plumage of the phoenix perched next to Dumbledore's desk. Fawkes's head tilted and a soft trill sounded as he focused on the hidden Horcrux in Ava's lap. She wouldn't be surprised to find out that the bird could sense remnants of the dark magic currently contained within the charmed box.

Just like she wouldn't be surprised if Dumbledore tried to access her memories during this meeting. Ava shored up her mental shield, hoping to block him if he tried to enter her mind. When she had mentioned the possibility to Aunt Minerva, the older with seemed to doubt the lengths Dumbledore was willing to go to gain information that could help the Order of the Phoenix. Granted, this was still just the First Wizarding War, so maybe the wizard wasn't quite as ruthless in his scheming yet, but still. Ava needed to be prepared for any version of Dumbledore to make an appearance when it came to the "greater good."

The bearded Headmaster peered at her from behind his half-mooned spectacles, his blue eyes darting between Ava and Professor McGonagall, likely still trying to make sense of the story they had just told him. "Minerva, I assume that you were aware of Ava's situation from the beginning? I'm surprised you didn't come to me when seeking a way to return her to her world."

"Don't blame her for anything," Ava said quickly. "I practically forced her to take a Wizard's Oath before I gave her any details, and she's not allowed to share without my explicit permission." Her aunt had agreed to not tell Dumbledore about the involvement of her friends or Remus, so as far as he was aware, some unknown magic had transported Ava to this alternate world. She had considered using the same explanation as she did for Malfoy, claiming that she was a Seer, but she worried that Dumbledore might not put any stock in the information she would provide.

"And yet you haven't demanded an Oath from myself?" he asked.

She smiled. "Not yet. I will before I divulge anything of importance, and I expect that you'd like for me to take a Wizard's Oath as well?"

He nodded, returning her smile.

"Well, I'm hoping that this will also help convince you that I'm on your side," she said, shifting forward in her seat, indicating the box in her lap.

The Headmaster leaned over his desk to peer at the object.

Ava took out her wand and paused, glancing at Dumbledore. "You'll probably sense the dark magic, but it's been rendered inert. It's not strong enough to do anything anymore."

He narrowed his eyes, distrust blatant in his expression.

She huffed out a laugh. "Headmaster, I'm not stupid enough to attempt you any harm. Nor would I want to. I'm here to gain you as an ally in the war against Voldemort. Before it gets any worse." She unlocked the box and stood, placing it on Dumbledore's desk before lifting the lid.

Professor McGonagall, having already witnessed the destroyed Horcrux, hadn't moved from her seat. Dumbledore, however, stood from his chair to look down at the withered diadem and cast a few spells that Ava assumed were to detect any curses or other dangerous spells layered into the object.

"Is this truly what it appears to be?" he asked, dropping back into his chair with a tired sigh.

Ava's lips pressed into a grim line. "Yes. This is one of Tom Riddle's Horcruxes. I wasn't sure if you knew about these yet."

His blue eyes flashed to hers. "Yet? And this is just one of them?"

"He currently has four that I know of. In 1981, Voldemort is supposed to be…attacked, and everyone will think he's dead—"

"But due to his Horcruxes, he'll remain alive, even if it is in a lesser state," Dumbledore finished, pausing for a few moments. "I considered that Tom would look to darker magics to secure the power and influence that he desired, but I hadn't thought he would go so far."

"I knew the diadem was in the Room of Requirement and I used Basilisk venom to destroy it, as you can see."

The old wizard sighed once more. "The very crown that belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw and was thought to be lost?"

She nodded.

His expression seemed to lament the loss of such a precious artifact. "What exactly would you ask of me?"

Ava lifted her chin. "I want to join the Order."

His gray eyebrows rose as his eyes flicked to McGonagall and back to her.

"Hopefully, we can end this war much sooner than the original time line, and to do that, I'd like to attend meetings so I can be aware of the plans. I'm not asking to be on the front lines or anything, but I can contribute to the cause with the information that I already know."

Dumbledore cleared his throat. "As admirable as that offer is, Miss McGonagall, I doubt you have enough information to warrant becoming an active member of the Order. I can't help but question the wisdom of allowing an underaged witch, who is still in school, to join forces against a dark wizard."

"I'm already seventeen," she said, waving him off. "I'd prefer to stay on the sidelines and not have a very involved role. I just want the chance to provide useful information and insight to certain events. Also, I can help with collecting the remaining Horcruxes."

The wizard straightened in his chair. "And you know the locations of the others?"

She nodded. "And I'll tell you, but I need a Wizard's Oath from you first."

"I'll agree to such, but I require an Unbreakable Vow in return."

Professor McGonagall gasped and began to protest, but Ava held up her hand, having anticipated this. This is exactly why her aunt currently held a list of predetermined questions in her hands. Having done her research, Ava knew that the Wizard's Oath was enough to bind her promises, but the Unbreakable Vow would force Ava to follow the compulsion of the magic and Dumbledore's will, which she was most definitely not willing to do.

"Instead of the Unbreakable Vow, I'll take the Wizard's Oath, but I also offer to answer questions under Veritaserum. Questions that we've written down for you."

The old wizard was silent, blue eyes not twinkling as his gaze focused on her.

"I wouldn't mind adding the traditional Order of the Phoenix member Oath as well." She paused, glancing at her aunt out of the corner of her eye. "That is, assuming you have one. If not, you need to create one."

Dumbledore looked taken aback, probably not having thought that the situation was dire enough to demand a sworn Oath from the Order members.

"Trust me," she said. "It's necessary."

His face hardened. "Why would you suggest something like that?"

Ava shook her head. "I'm not going to divulge any specifics until I have an Oath from you as well."

"If you're truly on the side of the light, why would I ever turn you over to Tom and his followers?"

She gave him a small smile with a tilt of her head. "I'm not worried about that, necessarily. I'm more concerned with how you plan to use the information I provide."

Surprise flickered through his gaze so quick she might've missed it had she not been scrutinizing his expression for any tells about his thoughts.

Ava made the mistake of looking into his eyes and felt a subtle, soft presence brush up against her mental shield. She launched to her feet and snapped, "I'm coming to you, more than willing to offer assistance against Voldemort, but I will not give you free range to my entire mind."

"Albus!" McGonagall admonished from next to her.

He clapped with a smile, appearing delighted. "Wonderful!"

Ava frowned at him.

"Dear child, I would never enter your mind without explicit permission. I was merely testing your mental defenses. You've been quite busy since arriving at our school," he told her with approval lacing his tone. "You've only succeeded to assure me further that I'm making the right decision."

The tension dropped from her body and she sat back down in her seat. "So, where does this leave us?"

"I'll settle for your original offer—a Wizard's Oath and questioning under Veritaserum using the questions provided. May I peruse them first?" He reached out a hand towards McGonagall who handed him the parchment. His eyes scanned the paper while bobbing his head and just a minute later, he looked to Ava and said, "These are quite well thought out, Miss McGonagall."

She nodded. "Well, I wanted to be prepared as possible. This is serious sh—stuff." She could feel her face redden in embarrassment, but Dumbledore merely smiled as she continued. "What I mean is, this isn't a game to me. I personally know people, people I'm friends with, who will be hurt if I don't take action."

"I'll swear my Oath now and then we'll proceed with the Veritaserum. Is there anything in particular that you'd like for me to include?"

She had already given this some thought. "I want you to swear that any information I pass onto you is then passed onto your most trusted lieutenants but no one else unless the Order member is vital to the mission. Any information I give to you should be shared on a strict need-to-know basis, but you can't keep all of it to yourself. I'd also like a complete list of the current members and in the future, I want to be made aware of any new members joining."

He peered at her with a silent, calculating gaze.

"Either you agree to that, or we're done here. Those aren't demands that I'll budge on. You can keep or destroy the list of members once I'm done reading it, if that's what you're worried about."

The Headmaster nodded before holding out his wand and swearing the magical Oath, worded exactly how Ava asked for. He stood from behind his desk and strode over to a bookshelf that housed a wooden box that appeared much like the one residing in Ava's lap. He waved his wand and a faint click sounded, and he lifted the lid on the box, removing a glass vial.

A brief smirk graced Ava's lips. Aunt Minerva had doubted that Dumbledore would have the Ministry-regulated Veritaserum on hand, but Ava knew the old wizard didn't always follow the letter of the law when it would benefit him.

He returned to his desk and pulled out the stopper before handing the bottle to Ava. "Only two small sips are needed."

Ava glanced to her aunt and only took a drink of the truth serum once the older witch nodded.

"It should be only a minute or so before it takes effect. While we wait, why don't you tell me about yourself, Ava?"

"Me?" she asked with a small frown.

The Headmaster chuckled. "Yes, dear, you. How are your classes going?"

"Great, actually. Magic is pretty amazing and I love learning all about it. It's incredible what you can do if you put your mind to it. Not that I've really created anything because I'm not quite there yet, but it's interesting to see what wizards have been able to come up with."

He gave her a friendly smile. "Magic is truly remarkable. I cannot refute that when evidence of its wonders is sitting right in front of me. How do you find yourself fitting in with your peers?"

She couldn't stop a grin from forming on her face at the thought of her friends. "They're wonderful. I'm super glad that I have them." The thought of losing any one of them sobered her and she looked to Professor McGonagall. "As much as I love Aunt Minerva, I'm positive my sanity is only still in tact because of my friends." She turned back to Dumbledore. "Both Gryffindors and Slytherins."

A gray eyebrow rose.

She huffed out a breath, taking his silence as judgment for her choices. The feeling to speak her mind overwhelmed her. "Not that I particularly care what you think." Her fists clenched atop the armrests of her chair. "Or anyone else for that matter. They can just go fuck themselves."

Aunt Minerva gasped from beside her and she heard titters of laughter from the portraits of former Headmasters and Headmistresses. She glanced up at the paintings and found several of the occupants laughing or smiling, while others threw reproachful looks her way. A familiar figure caught her eye and she smiled when even the old-school Phineas winked at her.

"Avalynn," her aunt scolded, drawing her attention back to the professors sitting with her.

Her face flamed as she realized what she had just said. "I didn't mean to—"

Dumbledore chuckled and raised a hand. "It's quite alright. I have a feeling the Veritaserum is loosening your tongue."

"Still, sorry, sir," she said with a grimace.

"Shall we?" he asked, picking up the parchment listing her previously chosen questions.

She nodded.

"Very well. Why do you want to help the Order of the Phoenix?" he asked.

Easy. "It's the best way to help everyone. Voldemort needs to be stopped before Halloween night, 1981." Huh. She hadn't meant to include that specific detail about the date.

"Are you loyal to the Order of the Phoenix and what it stands for?"

"Yes. I want to keep my friends safe, but I agree with the underlying mission of the Order. People and magical creatures shouldn't be seen as lesser just because they're different. Prejudiced Purebloods can't be the only people running the Wizarding World."

"Are you loyal to Albus Dumbledore?"

Ava kept silent for a moment, trying to force a rehearsed answer she had practiced, but her mouth couldn't form the words. Here goes nothing, she thought with a grimace. "As long as he doesn't put anyone I care about in danger." From the twitch of the old wizard's lips, she could tell he didn't take her response personally. And honestly, her answer wasn't as harsh as she thought it could've been.

"Are you loyal to Tom Riddle, also known as Lord Voldemort?"

Ava couldn't hold back the murderous glare as she spat, "Never. He's an evil asshole who would attack a baby in order to stay in power and gain immortality. He has no business being in a governing position of the Wizarding World."

If he was shocked by her anger towards someone she had never personally met, he didn't show it. "Why are you friendly with known future Death Eaters?"

"Because they're my friends. Regardless of what they are capable of, I know that they aren't exactly willing participants," she said.

Dumbledore frowned. "What do you mean?" he asked.

She fumed for a couple seconds before taking a deep breath. While the question hadn't been on her list, it wasn't completely out of line. Besides, now that he asked it, she could feel the potion compelling her to respond. "How can they be considered willing when they don't understand the true nature of Voldemort? They don't realize what kind of lifestyle he's leading them to, and I know that at least a few of them will want out as it becomes more clear."

He looked as though he wanted to inquire further, but he nodded and moved onto the next question. "How do you plan to aide the Order of the Phoenix?"

"In any way possible."

He gave her a small smile. "Can you be more specific?"

Ava gave an annoyed huff considering that they had already discussed this and Dumbledore was likely just fishing for more details. "I will provide information about the people and events that I can remember, in the hopes that it'll save lives, and help locate and destroy Horcruxes." He opened his mouth to ask the next question, but the Veritaserum urged her on. "I will do anything required of me, even if that includes fighting on the front lines against Death Eaters or Voldemort himself." She paled, not having expected that answer from herself. From the surprised looks on both her aunt and the Headmaster, they hadn't either. While Ava knew she might be able to stand her ground against some of the Death Eaters, there was no way in hell that she'd be able to battle Voldemort and live.

Dumbledore cleared his throat. "How will you respond if you are discovered?"

"I could go into hiding, in a safe house, like I know others did in the original time line. If I'm captured, I would let myself die before I revealed anything that would bring harm to others." She could hear Aunt Minerva suck in breath at her admission.

"What is your primary goal?"

Unbidden tears sprung to her eyes. "I want them all to have the lives they deserve. They should be surrounded by friends and family, not loss and danger."

Sympathy shone in Dumbledore's gaze as he asked one last question, one sprung from his own curiosity. "Who are 'they', Miss McGonagall?"

She reached up to wipe away the teardrops that fell down her cheeks. "James, Lily, and Harry. Remus, Sirius. Severus and Regulus. Fred and George. Dobby. Hedwig." Ava could feel the compulsion to continue listing people start to wear off, but more names began to fall from her lips. "Barty. Rabastan. M—." Her mouth clamped shut of its own accord, and she rode out the last bit of the potion, willing away the dark thoughts that plagued her mind whenever she thought of the original time line and how their fates rested on her shoulders.

When her vision cleared, Ava saw Dumbledore stroking his beard in thought. "It seems you included those that you might not be good friends with, but you'd choose to protect them as well."

His underlying question was clear. "Like I said before. There are some of them that don't know what they've signed up for and they haven't done anything wrong," she said. "I haven't yet, nor will I ever, trust anyone who I am unsure of. You can be certain of that."

The Headmaster gave her a nod and rose from his desk. "Miss McGonagall, you're free to go. I'm sure your friends will be at breakfast soon enough with the Hogsmeade trip to look forward to. I'll discuss specifics with your aunt about introducing you to the Order."

Ava beamed. "Thank you, sir." She waved goodbye to Aunt Minerva and flashed a quick smile at Phineas, and spun to leave the office, descending the spiral staircase before heading in the direction of the Great Hall.

Her thoughts focused on her soulmate and the fact that she hadn't so much as kissed him in nearly twelve hours. Ava giggled at herself, realizing how desperate that sounded, but she couldn't bring herself to care. Not when Remus made her feel loved and cherished. His touches, whether soft or rough, always made her feel like an absolute goddess. Images of their intimate encounters flashed across her mind, making her flush. She loved that Moony wanted her as much as Remus did, and that only helped solidify the fact that soulmates were quite real and he was definitely hers. She bit her lip and trailed her finger across the scar at the juncture of her neck and shoulder. Her magic tingled with pleasure at the reminder of Moony claiming her as his mate.

A flash of a memory caused Ava to freeze in her steps. Lost in a haze of desire with Remus the afternoon before, his words resurfaced. Blurred together through a growl, they must not have registered in her mind in the heat of the moment, but now they rang through her head crystal clear. Can't wait to put my cub in you. Ava's eyes widened to saucers as she stood in the middle of the empty corridor, nausea rising in her stomach. Holy shit. We can't have a fucking kid right now! What is he thinking? Her thoughts whirled like a storm as she dashed through the hallways to the Hospital Wing.

She heaved the door open and stood at the entrance, panting and clutching a stitch in her side as her eyes darted around the large room for Madame Pomfrey. Spotting the nurse sitting in her office, Ava rushed over. "Madame Pomfrey!" she yelled, startling the matron.

"Merlin, Ava! What is it?" She bolted from her seat and began inspecting Ava.

Between breaths, she panted out, "What kind of contraceptives do wizards have?"

Madame Pomfrey stilled and then clucked. "Dear girl, that is not something you run in here screaming about, frightening my poor heart."

She nodded. "It is when I had sex a week ago and haven't taken anything."

The healer frowned as she shook her head. "I would've thought you'd be more responsible than that."

The obvious disappointment in her tone caused Ava to flinch. "I know, I'm sorry," she mumbled.

"Well, come sit down and catch your breath." Madame Pomfrey gestured to the single chair next to her desk and walked over to a wooden cabinet, and she pulled out two vials of potions. Setting them down on the desk next to Ava, she said, "The cloudy, white one is a monthly contraceptive that prevents pregnancies, and you can come get one from me each month from now on. The light green one tastes as unpleasant as it looks, but you'll need to drink it since your judgment seems to have lapsed. You're lucky you came to me when you did. It can be consumed up to ten days after unprotected sex, but works best within seven. It'll put a stop to any potential pregnancy that's already taken root."

Ava looked at the glass vials with wide eyes and let out a deep breath. "Thank you so much, Madame Pomfrey. I swear, I'm not usually this irresponsible."

The matron huffed out a laugh. "You and every other girl that's come to me over the years," she muttered. "Hormones are a fickle thing, dear. At least you're here now. But don't let it happen again, or I'll be speaking to your aunt."

Ava gulped. That was not a conversation she wanted to have. It was bad enough facing Madame Pomfrey like this, but at least the woman was a healer and dealt with health issues on a regular basis. "Of course, I promise." She pulled out the stopper for the green potion first, and downed it quickly, hoping that the second one would help wash down the awful taste. Thankfully, Madame Pomfrey conjured Ava a glass of water to rinse her mouth out with before she continued on her path to the Great Hall.

She was only a couple minutes from the massive dining room when the door to a broom closet opened in front of her and Remus stepped out, dragging her inside before she could even let out a squeak. Her magic thrummed under his touch as his hands settled on her hips. The dark space was only lit by Remus's wand resting on a shelf beside him. She giggled and wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a quick peck on the lips, deeply breathing in his comforting scent. "Not that I'm complaining, but we should probably get down to breakfast. Aren't you hungry?"

His eyes flashed amber as his pupils dilated. "I am feeling quite ravenous at the moment," he said in a low voice. He nipped her ear and kissed his way down her neck to the mark his bite left behind, and he bit it once more, eliciting a moan from Ava. He squeezed her ass with one hand as his other parted her robes.

"Feel free to think of me as an all-you-can-eat buffet," she said breathlessly while rapidly unbuttoning the top half of her shirt, exposing her chest.

Remus growled and pulled one of her breasts out of her bra, and latched his mouth onto her nipple. He sucked and tugged on it with his teeth before soothing it with his tongue.

"God, Remus," she moaned. Ava's hand threaded through his hair and she pulled him up to her, dominating his mouth with her tongue.

After a few moments, he broke away and she let out an unwilling whimper, hating that she sounded so needy. But Remus seemed to enjoy it, if his resulting deep groan was anything to go by. He dropped to his knees, slipping her underwear down from under her skirt as he descended her body. Without warning, he wrapped his fingers around the back of her knees and lifted Ava's legs over his shoulders, supporting her bottom with his strong hands as she leaned back against a cabinet.

She let out a startled yelp that morphed into a moan as he dipped his head beneath her skirt and stroked his tongue up her wet slit. Ava had one hand on the back of his head and the other clutching onto a dusty shelf, holding on for dear life as she quivered against his face.

He swirled his tongue around her clit and flicked it repeatedly, bringing her to the peak of pleasure several times, before he coaxed her back down with gentle lapping using the flat of his tongue. He then thrust his tongue into her, making her pussy clench with the need to be filled.

"Please, Remus," she begged. He continued feasting on her, her legs twitching as the euphoric sensation mounted. She knew that he enjoyed hearing her pleasure vocalized, so she muttered in a trembling voice, "I love you licking my pussy."

Remus growled and sucked hard on her clit, forcing a wanton moan from Ava's lips.

"You make me feel so good, mate."

The werewolf gave a deep moan of his own before he softly dragged his teeth over her clit, sending shock waves of pleasure through her body.

"I wanna come, Remus. Please."

His mouth pulled away from her briefly, only long enough for him to demand, "Come for me, mate," before he licked the length of her pussy once more and wrapped his mouth around her clit, alternating between sucking and flicking it with his tongue, pushing her over the cliff of her orgasm.

She writhed against his face, moaning his name repeatedly until she came down from her high. She could feel Remus's desire for her and smug self-satisfaction traveling across their bond as he stood from beneath her skirt and wiped his mouth with the back of his hand.

Ava slowly reached out for his waistband, intending to return the favor, but Remus grabbed her hands and said, "That's the first of the two orgasms you demanded for today, mate. Though I intend to pleasure you as many times as possible today."

Even though she had just come down from her orgasm, she sent a heated look his way, just anticipating the other times throughout the day when her soulmate might spring another round on her.

His tongue invaded her mouth for a deep kiss before he broke away. "We've got to get out of here and head to breakfast before we up spending the rest of the day in this broom closet," he growled, kneading her ass as he spoke.

Ava huffed a laugh. "Then you've got to stop touching me, Remus."

With a sigh, he pulled away and snatched his wand from the shelf.

She adjusted her clothes and then cracked the door open and peeked into the corridor. "The coast is clear," she said, stepping out of the closet.

Her werewolf joined her and linked their hands, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. She grinned up at Remus and sent a wave of adoration through their bond, wanting to remind the wizard just how much she loved him. With their relationship being so new and intense, Ava knew that he still struggled occasionally with his self-worth and she was determined to do everything in her power to reinforce the fact that he deserved happiness.

Remus looked down at her with a fond smile and squeezed her hand.

Ava ducked her head to hide a smirk. She also intended to take advantage of their bond throughout the day while in Hogsmeade to drive her mate crazy with desire until they got back to the castle and he could have his wicked way with her.