Author's note: Hi everyone. My apologies once again that's it's been almost a year since I posted chapter 16. A big thanks to all of you who took the time to review my story. Your feedback is an important motivation for me to see this through till the end. So please, keep those reviews coming! This chapter was difficult to write and in many ways it actually turned out different than I had planned; but I think it's for the better. Hope you enjoy it :).

Chapter 17

Confessions

The dark blue sky, adorned with pale white stars, slowly retreated as the sun rose from behind the green mountains. Hogwarts castle shone with a pink and orange glow, a beautiful contrast with the green surroundings. Spring was definitely on its way as every day, more and more trees showed a hint of blossom. Though the birds and animals in the Forbidden Forest awoke to the rising sun, Hogwarts itself was still quiet as its inhabitants were still sound asleep. Safe for one dark haired witch whose eyes were transfixed on the vast forest in the east.

Judy stood before the window, her arms crossed tightly in front of her, pressing a small blue book against her chest. She closed her eyes as the first morning rays fell on her face, allowing the warm light to calm her nerves. She had to, because the knowledge that she'd be boarding the train back to London in three weeks, didn't calm her at all.

There was still so much to be done, Judy thought as she opened her eyes again. In the three weeks she had left, she had to find a way to visit Trelawney without drawing any suspicion, she had to tell her friends about her gift and worst of all she had to make sure Sirius remained in hiding and not do anything foolish...though she wasn't sure she had any control over that last matter.

Judy looked down at the blue book, focusing her thoughts on the tales James used to tell her, allowing the calm feeling to take over her heart. She held the book up in front of her, trailing the letters with her fingers and smiling as she noticed the white corner, sticking out of the pages. She opened the book to look at the red haired man smiling back at her. Charlie looked as handsome as ever with his red hair ruffled by the breeze and his freckles standing out against his tanned skin. Judy turned the picture over to read the few lines he'd written on the back.

I'm here for you.

Love, Charlie.

She smiled as she felt the magic of their special connection warm her fingertips. The feeling calmed her, assuring her that some things were going according to plan.

'I can do this,' Judy whispered, breathing in deeply as the magic coursed through her veins.

'Do what?' Judy startled and dropped the small blue book to the floor. The photograph, having managed to escape its hiding place, lay face up on the floor. She quickly bent over to pick it up and then turned on her heel.

Willow looked back at her from the bottom of the winding staircase, leading up to the dormitories. Her complexion was as pale as ever, making the dark circles under her eyes stand out even more than usual. Her hair was pulled back in a scruffy pony tail. A full shoulder bag hung from her left shoulder.

'You're up early,' said Judy, trying to make her voice sound casual.

'So are you,' retorted Willow. 'And that's not an answer to my question…' Judy met her eyes for moment, seeing a mixture of anger and sadness in the brown irises.

'How are you, Will?' she asked sincerely.

Willow rolled her eyes. 'There you go again, changing the subject.'

'Will, I'm serious. I'm worried about you,' Judy continued.

'Well I was worried about you too…since we started in September. I don't remember you caring enough to tell me what was really going on in your head. So, I don't see any reason why I should care enough to tell you…' she said, her voice trembling with rage. Judy couldn't do anything but stare back at her former best friend, unable to speak the truth she owed her. 'I'm off to the library,' Willow said, turning on her heel and storming out of the common room.

'Will…' Judy's voice broke as Willow disappeared from view. She quickly wiped a tear from her cheek, sighing as she did so. She still had so many things to do…

'Willow?' A familiar voice called as Judy heard someone thundering down the spiral staircase. 'Willow?'

'She went to the library,' said Judy as a dishevelled Shania appeared before her.

'And you bloody let her go?' said Shania, approaching her. 'Have you even noticed the state she's been in lately?'

'It's hard not to,' said Judy calmly as Shania looked back at her fiercely.

'What's happened to you, Jude?' she asked. 'She's always been there for you, to care for you, to protect you. And now when she needs you most you turn your back on her?'

'Excuse me?' said Judy ,taken aback. 'If you haven't noticed, I haven't been quite myself lately either.'

'You've been yourself enough to study properly and get a good evaluation from Flitwick. You even found some energy to help Aidan with his studies…' said Shania heatedly. 'But Willow, your best mate…do you know she got the worst evaluation out of all of us? If her grades don't change any time soon, she'll ruin her chances of becoming a Healer.'

'Well, knowing her she won't accept my help anyway,' said Judy defensively.

'It still would be nice of you to offer…' Shania retorted. 'Merlin's beard, Judy. She saved your life and you're repaying her by allowing her to ruin her own!'

'I am not responsible for her choices, Shania!' Judy yelled back at her. 'I don't care how angry you are with me, this is not my responsibility!'

'If you were really her best mate you would make it your responsibility! Or at least share the load with her!' Shania raged on.

'Hey! What's going on here?' asked Aidan as he approached them in his pyjamas. 'Some of us like to sleep late in the weekends…'

'Stay out of this,' said Shania dangerously, keeping her eyes on Judy. 'You have to help her.' She pressed on, locking her eyes with Judy.

'No, I don't,' Judy retorted. 'She's got George and,-'

'She needs you,' Shania continued. 'She'll never let anyone come as close as you. You can't turn your back on her.'

'I'm not,-'

'Yes, you bloody well are!' Shania yelled. 'You're so self involved you don't even see it!'

'All right, that's enough,' said Aidan, stepping in between them and blocking Judy from Shania's view. 'I think you need to calm down.'

Shania cast him a nasty look. 'Go ahead, protect your girlfriend…'

'Girlfriend?' asked Aidan taken aback. 'Hang on, don't tell me…are you jealous?'

'Why you…evil goblin!' Shania yelled at him, before turning on her heel and running back up to the dormitory.

Judy quickly wiped away another tear as Aidan turned around to face her. She only stared at his chest, trying to control her emotions as she pressed both the book and Charlie's picture tightly to her chest.

'Don't let it get to you. I'm sure she didn't mean,-'

'Yes, she did,' Judy interrupted him. 'She meant it. I saw it in her eyes. She hates me…'

'Shania can get a little intimidating when she's angry,' said Aidan, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. 'She's just feeling helpless, because Willow won't let her in.'

'I know…Willow doesn't let people in easily, not since…' Judy broke off as she met Aidan's eyes.

'See? If it's anyone's fault it's mine…' Aidan offered.

'It doesn't make any sense though, we were just first years…' said Judy.

'Willow's always had trust issues,' Aidan mused. 'And having her catch me snogging another girl wasn't the best way to break up…' Judy shook her head with a smile; Aidan really was like her father. 'Listen, if you want to talk.'

'I do,' said Judy, contemplating her next words carefully. 'But if you don't mind, I'd rather…'

'Talk to a Weasley?' asked Aidan amused.

Judy nodded. 'Do you mind?'

'Nope,' said Aidan with a grin. 'I don't mind a chance of getting back to bed. I'll see you somewhere this afternoon.'

'Sleep well,' Judy returned his smile, watching him turn and head back up the staircase. She closed her eyes and savoured the silence in the room for a moment, trying desperately to postpone the inevitable. She sighed finally, clinging onto the small sparkle of confidence she felt as Charlie's magic slowly left her body again. She decided to let it slip, knowing she would be in much stronger need of the energy a few weeks from now. She'd have to draw magic from something else now…a friendship she hoped would never be broken…not even by finally revealing the truth.

She was going to Fred…and she would tell him everything.

Judy sat on the cold marble staircase, the blue book with Charlie's picture inside, still pressed against her chest. She was shivering slightly despite the thick purple sweater vest wrapped around her. Her baggy jeans didn't protect her skin at all from the cold rising up from the floor. She looked over her shoulder again. The security trolls, guarding the portrait of the Fat Lady, looked back at her with a dangerous sparkle in their eyes. She'd totally forgotten about the heightened security, having managed to slip into the Gryffindor common room a few times before…with the help of the twins of course.

She'd always loved those moments, having a chance to look around the common room her father and his friends had spent their Hogwarts' years in. To trail the chairs and bookcases, hoping to sense something of their presence, perhaps even an old memory she'd lost along the years. Those moments always managed to lift her spirits when she felt alone, just the simple knowledge that she shared a place with the people she'd once considered her family .

Judy looked over her shoulder as she heard the portrait swing open. She got to her feet as she recognized the red headed boy stepping out of it. He didn't notice her at first as he swung his scarf around his neck and slipped his hands into his mittens. When he finally looked up and met her eyes he stopped dead.

'Hello George,' she said hoarsely.

'Hi,' he replied curtly. Judy knew all too well why he was keeping his distance; she'd felt their friendship slipping from her grasp ever since she left the hospital. Though George had never spoken of it, she knew at least part of him resented her for not helping out Willow now that she needed her best friend most.

'Where…where are you off too?' Judy asked, trying desperately to make her voice sound casual.

'Willow,' said George, unable to hide the accusing tone in his voice. 'She usually goes out for a stroll when she can't sleep…and she's had a lot of trouble sleeping lately.'

'Yes, I know…' said Judy evading his eyes. 'But I'd check the library first if I were you. She headed there this morning.'

'The library?' asked George, concerned. 'I suppose you weren't able to stop her?'

'She didn't really give me a chance,' said Judy truthfully. George looked at her, sceptically. 'George, I,-'

'I have to go,' he said quickly, walking past her. Judy turned on her heel and looked after him as he made his way down the marble stair case. She couldn't do anything but take a long deep breath to still her emotions as she tried her utmost not to hate herself for neglecting her friends.

'Well, what a lovely surprise!' Judy quickly turned back at the sound of the familiar voice. 'Good morning, gorgeous.' Fred smiled at her as he reached her side. 'To what do I owe this pleasure?'

'I need to talk to you…alone.'

'Alone?' asked Fred, unable to hide his interest. He cast a glance at the trolls behind them. 'They don't understand English, so I guess we are alone…'

'OK,' said Judy as she sat down on a marble step and pulled Fred down with her.

'Merlin's soggy…these stairs are freezing!' He exclaimed. 'Don't tell me you've been sitting her all morning...'

'I have, so don't you start complaining about the ten minutes you'll have to spend on them,' said Judy, knowing all too well that her irritation had everything to do with the time she'd spend with the other twin a few moments ago.

'OK, you're right, sorry…' said Fred carefully.

'No, I'm not…' Judy shook her head. 'I'm sorry, it's just I've got so much to do and…' she ran her fingers through her raven black locks. 'You know how I've been telling you and George and Willow that whatever I was going through I had to do it on my own?'

'Yes…' said Fred, unable to hide his curiosity.

Judy nodded. 'Well…I can't handle it on my own anymore. And I promised you that if I needed help, you'd be the first to know.' Fred looked at her expectantly. 'I'm… I've been having visions.'

'Visions?' asked Fred confused.

'I'm a Seer, Fred.' Judy said quickly, eyeing him for a reaction.

'A Seer?' he still looked at her, confused. 'But…you've never had any visions before, have you?'

'No,' Judy answered. 'It only started this past summer. That's why I haven't been handling it well...because it's developed so suddenly and not gradually as it usually does.'

'I see…' he said quietly.

Judy couldn't bare to look at him in the silence that followed. She hugged her legs, staring at the marble staircase and feeling a cold that had nothing to do with the cold stone beneath her. Her heart was freezing again, freezing with the fear of what Fred would think of her, as she remembered how her mother had been considered a freak by her former friends. How they'd shunned her as soon as they discovered her so called gift. She still hated that word.

'I don't understand…' Fred spoke finally. 'Why didn't you tell me before?' Judy looked sideways, surprised by his reaction.

'There's nothing you could have done to help me,' she explained.

'I could have been there for you,' Fred retorted. 'And make sure you didn't have to face this on your own. I can't believe…I mean, you must have been frightened, at first at least.'

'I still am,' Judy said truthfully. 'I hate not being able to control it…I mean, if I try to stop it then…well, you saw what happened to me at the Burrow. And last time when I tried to take control and summon one…' Fred looked at her, appalled.

'That's what happened?' he asked taken aback. 'You summoned…why? Why would you summon a vision if it has this effect on you?'

'I didn't expect it to have such an effect on me, I didn't think I could…die from it,' she said defensively. 'And I summoned it because…because there's something I need to See.' She admitted, feeling as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.

'You need to see the future?' Fred asked confused.

'No…a memory,' she said truthfully. 'It's hard to explain, but my Sight is developing differently. I can't see the future, Fred. I see the past.'

'And something happened in the past, that you need to See?' he asked slowly. Judy nodded. 'But if you try to do so then…'

'I wasn't prepared,' said Judy truthfully. 'But I should be able to See and live, if I know what to do to protect myself.'

'And you need my help doing that?' asked Fred confused.

'There's one person in this school that can help me,' said Judy heavily. 'But I'm…I'm afraid to go to her alone.'

'Then I'll go with you,' said Fred quickly. Judy cast him a thankful smile. 'I think you've gone through this on your own long enough.'

'Thank you, Fred,' she said. 'You really are a good friend.' She leaned over and kissed his cheek. He looked at her as she pulled back, once again with a mix of emotions in his eyes that she couldn't untangle.

'So,' he said, clearing his throat. 'Which person are we going to see?'

'Trelawney,' said Judy heavily.

'Trelawney?' asked Fred amused. 'You're going to rely on her Inner Eye?'

'No,' said Judy quickly. 'Just her theoretical knowledge…she has to know how I can protect myself from the aftermath of my visions.'

'Yes, she might,' said Fred, not convinced.

Judy looked at him for a moment. 'Fred, I want to do this without drawing too much attention. I mean, I want to tell Willow and George, but as for the others…'

'I understand,' he said quickly. 'Not everybody feels comfortable around Seers. We'll find a way to do this without drawing attention.'

'Good, because I was thinking,-'

'You know what,' Fred cut her off. 'I think with your restoring health and all your homework, you've got enough to worry about. How about I worry about this? I'll arrange for you and Trelawney to meet without anybody noticing.'

'Are you sure that's not too much trouble?' asked Judy worried. 'I mean, you've got your OWLs…'

'As if I'd ever pass those,' said Fred amused. 'No, I'll take care of this…and it's about time you start taking better care of yourself.' He said, standing up, taking her hand and then pulling her up as well. 'How about we start with breakfast?'

'OK,' Judy smiled as he took her hand and pulled her along. Her smile only grew as a warm spark ignited in her heart and fed her hope that she might not have to go through it all on her own after all.

The next few days felt like the longest days Judy had ever experienced in her life. Her fall out with Shania had caused a ripple throughout all of her friendships. Shania and Willow were now both ignoring her, Abigail and Aidan on the other hand grasped every opportunity to show their allegiance by ignoring the other two girls and Connor and Chelsea seemed to be caught somewhere in the middle.

Her friendship with the twins too, had changed. Much to Judy's regret she saw very little of George these days, who obviously spent most of his time with Willow. And whenever she saw Fred, she couldn't help but notice how he too was torn. She'd made up an excuse to be alone on several occasions, just to avoid having to see that look in his eyes.

When it came to school work, however, nothing had changed. The teachers insisted on setting the sixth years loads of homework so they would have enough to do during the upcoming holidays. And Snape, as expected, was thriving on the cracks in the class' friendships. Not only did he manage to notice every mistake Willow made, but since he discovered the broken friendship between the two, Judy too had to endure his long held wrath.

A wrath she couldn't quite explain, she thought, as she sat in Transfiguration that Friday afternoon, staring out of the window while the rest of the class listened attentively to McGonagall's talk about Animagi. Having a father who was just that and having read nearly every book about the subject, Judy's mind had wandered early on in the lesson leading her from Snape to the tasks that lay before her. Because even with Fred taking care of her talk with Trelawney, she still had to tell two of her best friends that she'd been lying to them for years…

'Ms. Byrne?' an all too familiar voice withdrew her from her reverie. Professor McGonagall surveyed her over her glasses.

'Yes?' asked Judy, as she realised she was the only student left in class.

'Are you all right?'

'Yes,' she said, quickly picking up her bag from the floor. 'I'm fine.' She stuffed her parchment into her bag. 'I just…I guess my mind just wandered for a moment.'

'Well, considering your excellent essay on Animagi, I can imagine today's lesson was boring you…' said Professor McGonagall amused.

'I'm sorry, Professor,' said Judy, blushing.

'No need to apologise, Ms. Byrne,' said the older witch. 'My goal is to bestow knowledge on you, if you already have it it's only understandable that I lose your attention. Although, I am quite intrigued by your interest in the subject.' Judy carefully met her eyes. 'Is there any special reason why you've taken a personal interest in Animagi?'

'No,' she replied. 'I suppose I'm just fascinated by shape shifting.'

'Is it something you wish to pursue?' asked McGonagall. 'If you do, I am sure you have the talent to do so.'

'Talent?' asked Judy, as her heart jumped in her chest; as far as she knew Dumbledore and Lupin were the only teachers who knew about her bond with Sirius.

'Yes…with a Metamorphmagus in your family I am sure you have an advantage to others wizards who wish to become Animagi.' She explained.

'You know?' asked Judy confused.

'Yes, I know Tonks is your cousin,' said Professor McGonagall seriously. 'And I know…Sirius is your father.' Judy gasped at the statement.

'What? How?' she blurted out.

'Professor Dumbledore thought you might need an extra pair of eyes looking after you,' she said calmly.

'That's very kind of him,' said Judy, unable to hide her sarcasm; the last thing she needed right now were extra eyes on her.

'Yes it is,' said Professor McGonaggal seriously. 'The more eyes on you, the safer you will be. I am sure you've heard about Harry's Christmas gift?'

'The Firebolt?' asked Judy. 'The one you all investigated only to find that it was nothing more but a gift from a godfather to his godson?'

'You'd do best to mind your tone, Ms. Byrne,' said Professor McGonagall sternly.

'I will, if you promise not to stalk me around the castle,' she said defiantly.

'Now listen here!'

'No, you listen! I've been hiding all my life. I've been watched all my life. And right now I am sick and tired of it. I've always been at my best behaviour, I have never told anybody who I really am. Not even my friends. Do you have any idea what it's like having to lie constantly to your friends? To not be honest with the people you care about? The people you love?' Judy swung her bag over her shoulder. 'I don't need an extra pair of eyes on me. What I need is a little trust. And if you all choose not to give me that, well then I hope Sirius will come and find me. Because if anything, he's always been a loving father.'

'He's a,-'

'He is NOT a murderer!' Judy yelled, leaving McGonagall speechless as she stalked out of the classroom.

She nearly raced down the corridor, warm tears staining her cheeks as anger and sadness bubbled inside of her. She knew that she couldn't have done anything more stupid than she just did; her outburst would only guarantee the pairs of eyes she'd wanted to avoid. But she was through with all the secrecy, through with all the pretence. She loved her father and she was more than willing to risk her life to clear his name. At the end of the school year, she thought with a mingle of joy and anger, everybody would know. Everybody would know her father was an innocent man…she was going to prove it.

That Saturday afternoon Judy walked down the marble staircase alone. She'd allowed herself to sleep in, giving her body a chance to replenish the energy it yearned for. The common room was deserted when she'd finally decided to get out of bed, meaning the others must have already gone down for lunch. Unlike a few months before, Judy was thankful she could walk down the marble staircase alone. The calm atmosphere was a welcome change from the constant tension between her and her house mates.

She counted her steps as she walked on, taking her time as she looked at the moving paintings covering the walls. It was the first time that year that she took such notice of her surroundings, having been caught up in her thoughts since her father's escape. She smiled as she reached the Entrance Hall, grateful that she'd had the opportunity to see Hogwarts the way she'd done as a first year and marvel at its beauty.

The hustle and bustle of lunchtime washed over her like a tidal wave. She drank in the warmth of the room and students as she stood in the doorway, the energy of the scene made her fingers tingle. She couldn't help but glance at the teachers' table, where Lupin sat, watching her with a small smile. His eyes, however, showed his concern and Judy guessed McGonagall must have told him about her outburst the other day. She didn't linger on the thought for too long, trying to enjoy her life as a Hogwarts' student and not think of the path that lay ahead.

She looked down the House tables, glancing left and right to find her friends. George and Willow sat at the Gryffindor table, talking animatedly with Lee Jordan. Their gestures indicated Quidditch was their topic of conversation. Shania sat a few seats away from them, opposite her younger brother Deacon. At the Ravenclaw table Aidan and Connor had decided to join the seventh years once again. Chelsea sat with her younger sister Evelyn, both swallowed by their textbooks as they absently ate their breakfast. Judy finally glanced at the Slytherin table, guessing correctly that Abigail had chosen to join her friends there.

'Looking for someone?' asked an all too familiar voice, making her startle.

'How many times do I need to tell you that's not funny?' Judy said, a bit shaken, as she turned on her heel. Fred only grinned at her.

'Have you checked the teachers' table?' he asked.

'Not really,' said Judy truthfully. She turned back and glanced at the row of teachers sitting at the long wooden table in the distance.

'Guess who's missing?' said Fred amused.

'Trelawney,' Judy whispered.

'That's right. She's probably upstairs reading tea leaves and waiting for us.'

'Waiting for us?' asked Judy confused.

'Well, if her Inner Eye is as good as she claims it to be…' Fred explained. 'So, shall we?'

'But, Lupin…' Judy said, glancing back and noticing he was still looking at her.

'Worst case scenario he'll think we're sneaking off to snogg…'

'Fred, please!' Judy said, not sharing his amusement.

'This may be the only chance you get, Jude.' He said seriously as their eyes met. She didn't speak, but only nodded as she allowed him to take her hand and lead her back into the Entrance Hall.

They rushed up the deserted stair case, their footsteps echoing on the marble. Judy clung onto Fred's hand, ignoring the pain of her empty stomach as she tried to keep up with his pace.

They reached the North Tower within minutes and only slowed down slightly as they made their way up the tightly spiralling steps. They reached the landing, both of them panting from their run.

'Was that…' Judy drew a deep breath. '…really necessary?'

'Well…you wanted…secrecy…' said Fred hoarsely as he looked up.

Judy followed his gaze to the circular trap door. There was a brass plaque on it reading 'Sybill Trelawney, Divination teacher'.

'How does this work again?' asked Judy, as she'd never been to the Divination class room before.

'Well, usually…' Fred rolled his eyes as a silvery ladder descended in between them. 'I swear, she must have an Extendable Ear or something…'

'Try Inner Eye…' Judy smiled as she took hold of the silvery material and climbed the ladder.

Judy took her time to look around the classroom which reminded her of a Muggle antique store. The room was filled with small circular tables, chintz armchairs and little pouffes in all colours imaginable. The shelves lining the walls were even more packed than the shelves in Lupin office. Except instead of magical creatures, there were teacups, candles and feathers. The smell of cheap perfume filled the air and it was unusually warm. The dim lighting made it seem like it was late in the evening, though it was only morning.

'Hello?' Judy asked, as Fred climbed up beside her. 'Professor Trelawney?'

'Come closer, dear,' a soft voice spoke from the other side of the room. Judy could barely make out the outlines of a person in the half darkened room.

'Where are you?' Judy asked, as she carefully moved forward in the room she'd been avoiding for almost six years.

'Closer, dear,' the voice repeated as Judy neared the centre of the room. Fred followed in her wake, remaining by her side as he had promised.

Judy stopped as a woman appeared from the shadows before her. Her appearance resembled Willow's elaborate descriptions in every single way. Judy quickly suppressed a smile as she remembered her conversations about Divination with her best friend.

'Just as I expected,' said Professor Trelawney as she moved closer and observed Judy through her large glasses. She stopped in front of the younger witch and stared at her for what seemed to be forever.

'You expected us?' Fred asked curiously.

'Of course I did,' said Professor Trelawney quickly. 'The Inner Eye is infallible.'

'Right…' he rolled his eyes.

'But I wasn't referring to myself,' Professor Trelawney explained. 'I was referring to your friend and how much she looks like her mother.'

'You knew my mother?' asked Judy surprised.

'Only by reputation I'm afraid,' said Trelawney in her misty voice. 'But there's no mistake, the long dark ebony hair, the almond shaped eyes. You are Briana Byrne's daughter.'

'Yes, I am,' Judy said unable to hide her pride. 'So then, if you knew my mother, you know why I am here?'

'The Inner Eye Sees everything, dear,' Trelawney ignored Fred's snort as she guided Judy to a small circular table. 'Tea?'

'No thank you,' said Judy. 'We don't have much time. I don't want anybody to know about this.'

'Tsk, tsk…your gift is nothing to be ashamed of.'

'Nonetheless,' said Judy quickly. 'Nobody can know about this.'

'All right, I understand. Sight can be intimidating to some,' she said, casting a glance at Fred, who looked back at her unimpressed.

'I need to summon a vision. A very important vision,' she said, contemplating her next words carefully. 'I'm afraid I'll only have one chance to do it. So I need to know how to summon the right one.'

'And she needs to know how to do so without killing herself.' Fred added quickly.

'I see,' said Trelawney as she motioned for Judy to sit down. 'Well, you will need an object related to whatever you wish to See.' She said sitting down as well.

'I had one with me last time. But it wasn't enough…I need more to make it easier for my mind and body to See.' Judy looked back at the other woman in anticipation.

'Well…' she said thinking. 'I suppose there's always the location. The closer you are to the place of the event, the easier it is to See.'

'What else?' asked Fred annoyed.

'Excuse me?' Trelawney cast him a glance of dislike.

'Objects, locations…that's got to be in every Divination book.'

'Fred…' Judy sighed, not having counted on his emotions.

'No, this is not enough, Jude.' Fred turned back to Trelawney. 'There has to be something else.' Trelawney looked from him to Judy. She didn't speak as she got up from her seat and walked to the window.

'I'm sorry, Professor,' said Judy as she got up as well. 'He didn't mean to offend you.' Trelawney didn't respond as she looked out the window. Judy cast Fred a knowing look.

He rolled his eyes before speaking. 'I was out of order. I'm sorry.'

'You're worried about her,' said Trelawney in understanding as she turned on her heel. 'And you should be.' She looked at Judy. 'If you attempt to do this without having proper control of your Inner Eye,-'

'I have control,' Judy retorted. 'I just need…I need something to make it easier…' she said for the lack of a better word. 'Please, Professor. You know more about Divination than anybody else at Hogwarts.' Trelawney's lips curled up in a small smile, clearly flattered by Judy's statement.

'There is one more thing…' said Trelawney, her voice sounding more misty and mysterious than usual. 'A method that has proven effective in the past…but I cannot..'

'Please,' Judy pleaded as she crossed the distance between them. 'I don't care what it is, or what it will cost me. I'll do anything.' She stopped as she heard the desperation in her voice and realised Fred was still standing beside her. Trelawney turned on her heel and looked out the window again. Judy couldn't help but look sideways to see the concerned look in Fred's eyes.

'It's and old technique,' Trelawney began. 'Very old….' She took a deep breath before turning around. 'And very dark.'

'Dark?' asked Fred taken aback.

'What is it?' Judy cut across him.

'Well,' Trelawney continued, fondling with one of her bead necklaces. 'First, you must swear to me that you will not talk to anybody about this. Not about what I am about to tell you, nor that you heard it from me.'

'I promise,' said Judy impatiently. Trelawney looked at Fred through her huge glasses.

'I promise,' he said in defeat.

'All right,' said Trelawney with a hint of relief. 'In the old days, dark wizards and witches believed that certain animals had magical abilities. They believed a fox able to read thoughts, a salamander to poison you by just locking its eyes with yours and they believed a certain animal to be able to See. To See beyond the veil clouding human eyes, to See into different worlds. Worlds of life and death. Worlds of the future and the past.'

'What animal?' asked Judy curiously.

'A cat,' said Trelawney.

'But that's just a fairy tale,' said Fred dismissively. 'Didn't you tell me Muggles give cats these special gifts in their stories all the time, Jude?'

'Ah yes,' said Trelawney with a smile. 'But even Muggle stories have an origin in the real world, Mr. Weasley. The magical world to be more exact.'

'A cat…' Judy mused. 'How does it work? I mean, what do I have to do?'

'It's not difficult, really,' Trelawney said. 'You take a cat with you to the location where you want to summon the vision. Then you hold the cat in your hands and lock your eyes with it, concentrating on the vision you wish to See. The cat will then guide you into your vision.'

'That shouldn't be too difficult,' said Judy, with a hint of relief.

'No, except for one thing…' said Trelawney, her voice once again misty and mysterious. 'While a cat can help you enter the vision…it cannot guide you out. You are the only one who can stop it. That is why it is absolutely vital that you have control over your Inner Eye…'

'What if she doesn't?' asked Fred, unable to hide his concern. Judy closed her eyes as Trelawney spoke again. 'Then her mind will not be able to return to our time. It will lose itself in the vision.'

'Jude,-'

'I can control it,' she said quickly. 'Is there anything else I need to do?' she said, keeping her eyes on Trelawney.

'No,' she replied, eyeing Judy warily. 'But, remember only if you have,-'

'I have control,' Judy repeated, ignoring the cold knot in her stomach. She met Fred's eyes and cast him a knowing look. 'Thank you for your help, Professor,' she said, after silencing her best friend.

'Not at all. You will stay for tea?' Trelawney asked eagerly. 'I would gladly read your tea leaves…'

'No, thank you,' said Judy quickly. 'I'd rather not hear what lies ahead.'

'But surely, your Inner Eye must be tested before,-'

'It surely doesn't,' said Fred quickly as he took Judy's hand. 'Thank you for seeing us, Professor.'

'But,-'

'Goodbye,' said Judy with a courtesy wave as Fred pulled her toward the silvery ladder. She quickly descended, Fred following her closely, as Trelawney talked on to try and stall them.

'There,' Judy said as they reached the bottom. 'That went smoother than I expected.'

'Smoother?' asked Fred, unable to hide his anger. 'Why did you lie and tell her that you have control over your visions?'

'Fred!' Judy hissed, looking up at the trap door. She took out her wand and swung it shut with a spell, casting a Muffliato spell after it to make sure Trelawney would not be able to eavesdrop.

'You do not control it, Jude,' said Fred, still tense. 'If you're finally being honest with me, than you have to be honest about this as well.' Judy looked at him for a moment, biting her lip as she thought of how much truth she would tell him…how much truth their friendship could handle.

'Fine, I do not control it, at least…not entirely,' she said truthfully. 'That's why I needed Trelawney. That's why I am taking every single precaution there is…to make sure that what little control I have is enough.'

'Enough to what? Survive?' asked Fred, taken aback. 'Are you telling me that, even with all of those precautions, you may not survive this?'

'You wanted the truth,' said Judy in a calm voice.

'But, what…why on earth would you take that risk?' asked Fred confused. 'Just for a vision?'

'Because it's important,' said Judy quickly.

'But,-'

'I'm sorry, Fred. I can't tell you more, you just have to trust me,' she said, pleading him to stop asking further.

'Well, then I can't help you anymore,' he said, turning on his heel and walking away from her.

'Fred, no!' Judy hurried after him. 'Fred, please. Please stop.' She grabbed his arm as she reached his side. He easily pulled it out of her grip and descended the stairs.

Judy's heart broke as Fred walked away from her. Tears welled up in her eyes as she felt everything slip away through her fingers. She knew that even with all her precautions, the warmth of friendship would still be the most important of all. If her attempt went terribly wrong she needed her friends to be there. She would need their bonds to bring her back, otherwise nobody would ever know the truth about her father. She wouldn't be able to tell others about Sirius' innocence if she wouldn't be able to return to consciousness.

'Fred, wait!' She called as she rushed after him, down the tightly spiralling steps. 'I'll tell you, I'll tell you everything!' she said desperately, making him stop in his tracks.

'Everything?' he asked sceptically, as Judy stopped before him.

'Everything,' she confirmed as she tried to catch her breath. 'But you have to…you have to promise you will not tell anyone.'

'I promise.'

'No matter what, Fred,' said Judy seriously. 'Nobody knows about this, apart from Remus, Dumbledore and the few relatives I have left.'

'I promise, Jude,' said Fred softly. 'I won't tell anybody.' She eyed him for a moment, before leaning in and holding her hand against his ear.

'I need to have this vision,' she whispered, 'because it is about my father.'

'Your,-'

'Shhh!' she said quickly. 'He's been falsely accused of murder and chucked in Azkaban for it.' She pulled back, to see the look in his eyes.

'Azkaban?' he asked confused. Judy nodded, taking a deep breath before leaning in again.

'My father is Sirius Black.' She waited a moment before pulling back. Fred looked at her, flabbergasted.

'You are…' he whispered in disbelief. 'You can't be.'

'I am,' said Judy truthfully. 'I know it must be hard to believe, with everything I've been telling you these last years. But I've been sworn to secrecy all my life, for my own protection. And right now, I think it's also best for his.'

'How do you know he's…' Fred continued in a whisper. 'Innocent?'

'Because of my visions,' Judy whispered back. 'Because I've Seen how my mother believed in him, unconditionally. And she was able to See the future. She knew he would never harm those he loved.'

'But that's not good enough, is it?' asked Fred, in understanding. 'I mean, I understand it's good enough for you, but for others…'

'If I can See what actually happened, Dumbledore will have to believe it,' said Judy, looking in his eyes. 'I can't live with myself if I don't try this, Fred. Please, try and understand. If this works, I'll…I'll get him back. I'll have a father again.'

'I understand,' Fred sighed, as he brushed away a tear from her cheek. 'But that doesn't mean I like it…'

'I don't either,' Judy agreed. 'And if there was any other way…I have to do this and I need your help.'

'Well, what can I say, Byrne?' he said with a small smile. 'If you don't have a choice, then I don't either…'

'Thanks, Fred,' said Judy with a sigh of relief. 'You have no idea how much this means to me.'

'I think I do, gorgeous,' he smiled at her. 'How about you go lie down for a while and have a rest? I'll find George and Willow and tell them you want to talk to them. How about tonight before dinner? Classroom eleven?'

'OK,' said Judy, feeling weary with all of the tension of that morning. 'But Fred, I don't want them to know about,-'

'That's what I thought,' said Fred, thinking. 'Listen, if you're not going to tell them everything then they won't understand why you want to have this vision, no matter what the cost…' He paused.

'Then what should I tell them?' asked Judy, feeling her heart shrink, since she knew she needed all of her best mates to support her in this.

'Tell them what you told me, except…leave the part about wanting to summon another vision out.'

'You mean keep lying to them?' asked Judy disappointed.

'You'll tell them one day,' said Fred reassuringly. 'Just not tonight. I'm afraid there's no other way.'

'I know,' Judy admitted in defeat. 'But that doesn't mean I like it…'

'I think that goes for all of us,' Fred said with a small smile as he took her hand. Judy didn't speak as he led her down the tightly spiralling steps and back to the marble staircase. They went their separate ways from there, Judy up to Ravenclaw tower and Fred down to the Entrance Hall…each trying to ignore the cold knot in their stomachs.

Judy stood in a dark corner, pressing herself against the cold stone as in the distance students made their way to the Great Hall for dinner. She didn't know how long she'd been standing there, waiting for her friends to arrive. Her back felt as cold as the stone wall and her legs were feeling tired from standing perfectly still all this time. She wasn't all too conscious about her discomfort, however, as a mixture of fear and excitement coursed through her veins.

She'd tried to take Fred's advice to rest that afternoon, but her efforts turned out completely in vain; all she could think about were George and Willow and how they would react to her confession. All sorts of scenarios had run through her mind, more bad than good, but in the end she realised no matter how hard she tried she wouldn't be able to predict their reactions. Whatever they would be, she would have to make the best of the bonds they would share in the end. However fragile they may be.

Judy startled as something brushed passed her leg. Duncan looked up at her with his yellow eyes. She squatted and gently stroked his head, smiling as he purred at her touch. It felt good to know he'd be at her side to see her through whatever was to come; it made her feel less alone.

'Jude?' she looked up and met Willow's eyes with her own.

'Hi,' she said hoarsely, as she got to her feet. 'Are you…are you alone?'

'No, the boys are on their way down. We said we'd meet here.' She explained.

'Oh OK,' said Judy, unable to hide her nerves. 'Listen, I'm sorry about…' her voice failed her as she looked at her friend.

'Ah, there you are,' Fred said in his ever cheerful voice. 'How about we get in before one of the teachers catches us?' He held open the door for the others to enter, casting Judy a small wink as she passed him. 'Would you mind, Jude?' he asked after closing the door.

'Right,' she said, taking out her wand. 'Muffliato.' She kept her eyes on the door as she put her wand back in her pocket, taking a deep breath before turning around to see the faces she'd been avoiding the past weeks.

Willow sat on one of the front desks, her legs dangling as she stared at the wall opposite her. Her pale features were coloured by the light of the setting sun and her red hair blazed with a warm glow. For a moment Judy thought she looked just as healthy as she always had. However, her thoughts were brought back to reality as a cloud passed before the sun and Willow's ill look returned.

She looked away from her friend to look at George, who watched Willow with concerned eyes. Judy could only guess how powerless he must feel to see his girlfriend in the state she was in now, knowing she'd rather take it all on on her own and cave trying, before asking anybody's help.

'Jude?' Fred said gently, putting his hand on her shoulder.

'Yes…' she said in understanding. Duncan sat down at her feet, having followed them inside and as always sensing her tension. 'Well, first of all…I want to thank you both for coming. I mean, with everything that's happened, I wasn't sure you'd give me a chance to explain it all…'

'That's all we've been doing lately…' said George accusingly. 'You're the one who didn't take those chances.' Judy nodded as she looked at him.

'You're right,' she admitted. 'I didn't. But after today, I hope you'll understand that that had noting to do with me not wanting to tell you the truth.'

'Then why didn't you?' said Willow quickly.

'Because I was afraid to lose you,' said Judy truthfully.

'Lose us?' asked Willow sarcastically. 'Jude, by not telling us,-'

'I know. By not telling you, I've risked just that,' she agreed. She smiled as Fred squeezed her shoulder. 'That's why I'm telling you know…because I hope I'm not too late to win back your trust. Both of your trust,' she said, looking from Willow to George. 'All of you have been there for me in these past years,' she said, laying her hand a top of Fred's, to make sure he realised her words were meant for him too. 'And I've been repaying you this past year by shutting you out, and making you stand by to watch me fall more and more ill. I can't even imagine how that must have made you all feel,' she said, her eyes meeting Willow's. 'I am so sorry.' Willow looked back at her, casting down her eyes as tears ran down her cheeks. George got up from his chair and sat down beside her, putting his arm around her and drawing her close.

'I never meant to hurt any of you,' said Judy truthfully.

'Well, you did.'

'George,' said Fred warningly.

'No, Fred,' he retorted. 'Don't defend her. She's put us all through a lot this year, and it's taken more toll on Will than she's willing to admit. And no matter how many speeches she's got prepared, she can't change what she did.'

'You're right,' said Judy quickly. 'I can't change what I have and have not done, and I can't change what I put you through, but I hope…' she took a deep breath. 'I hope that by telling you now, you'll both be willing to give me a second chance.'

The silence that followed was the most uncomfortable one Judy had ever experienced. Willow did her utmost to stifle her sobs, but now that she finally showed her emotions she had great difficulty stopping her flood of tears. George sat next to her, his arm wrapped tightly around her, whispering soothing words in her ear. Judy closed her eyes, concentrating on Fred's hand on her shoulder and Duncan's weight on her feet ensuring herself it was all going to be all right. It had to be…

'What…' Willow paused as she steadied her breathing. 'What is it? What is this secret you've been keeping from us?' She met Judy's eyes.

'I'm…I'm a Seer,' Judy said carefully.

'A Seer?' asked George, taken aback. 'But you've never had any visions…'

'Not until last year,' said Judy truthfully. 'And it's the reason why I've fallen ill so many times these past months.'

'What do you mean?' asked Willow confused.

'Well, Seers are born with Sight. And usually their visions start at a young age. But for some reason, my visions only started last year. So I've been having full blown visions, without the gradual development that usually precedes it,' Judy explained.

'Do you mean, it's too much for you to handle?' asked George.

'Yes,' said Judy. 'My mind and body were, and still are, not fully prepared for my visions. They cost too much energy…and that's why I've been falling ill.' The other two looked at her for a moment.

'Why didn't you tell us?' asked Willow.

'Like I said, Will. I was afraid I'd lose you. I was afraid…I was afraid you wouldn't want to hang out with me anymore,' she said, not meeting her friend's eyes.

'Come on, Jude,' began George. 'We've been mates for years, we'd never walk out on you over this!'

'You really thought I'd throw away our friendship?' asked Willow, taken aback.

'No…but part of me was afraid you would. I know that when I say it, it sounds crazy…but I had a vision about my mother… all her friends walked out on her when they found out she had visions, so…'

'You were afraid we'd do the same,' said Willow softly. Judy smiled as she noticed the gentle tone in the other girl's voice.

'Yeah well, that doesn't change the fact that you should have known better,' George retorted. 'Or that you should have said something as soon as you realised what it was doing to her.' He continued, his arm still around his girlfriend's shoulder.

'I know. I'm sorry…' she said feebly.

'Yes, we heard that…'

'George…' said Willow reproachfully.

'Will, she,-'

'Listen, Jude,' said Willow, ignoring George as she met the other girl's eyes. 'When you tell it like that, I think we both understand why you did it.' Judy's heart lightened. 'But understanding it, doesn't change that you've been keeping this from us, even though you knew how badly I've been coping…' she paused. 'You can't expect me to just forgive and forget. I mean…I would never have let you go through something like that alone…' she said, breaking their eye contact.

'Will,'

'Don't,' she said quickly. 'I understand, but that's it. You have no right to ask more of me…not anymore,' she said, as she slid off the desk.

'But,-'

'She's right, Jude,' George agreed as he to got to his feet. 'You can't ask more of us.'

'But I need you,' Judy pleaded, despair once again threatening to take over her heart. 'Please. I need both of you to,-'

'I'm sorry,' Willow said hoarsely as she passed her.

'Willow!' Judy moved to follow her, but Fred held her back. 'Please, I need,-'

'Too late, Jude,' George said, before walking outside. Judy stared after him as the door fell shut with a thud, doing her utmost to keep the reality of her situation at bay.

'No…Willow, George!' she tried to run after them, but Fred held her back.

'You tried, Jude,' he said gently. 'May be in time they'll change their minds, but running after them,-'

'Time?' asked Judy as she turned on her heel. 'Time is exactly what I don't have, Fred.'

'Well, it's exactly what they need!' he retorted. 'And if you won't give it to them, then you'll only push them away further.'

'But I have to do this now, during the holidays, or I might never…' Judy's voice died as she met Fred's eyes. She couldn't stop her emotions from taking over anymore, having just put all her energy in strengthening her friendships, only to realise she'd acted too late. Her knees buckled and she sank to the floor.

Fred was quick to respond, catching her right before she hit the ground and lowering her gently. He sat down with her, drawing her in his embrace as her tears now ran down her cheeks unchecked. Judy barely reacted to his touch, completely taken up by her thoughts. She didn't even register Duncan leaping on her lap, not until he'd walked around a few times and finally found a spot to settle.

'It's all going to be all right,' Fred whispered gently. 'You'll see. It's all going to be all right.

The following two weeks were nothing more than a blur. Judy spent so much time lost in thought about the upcoming holidays that she barely registered anything in class, meaning she'd also missed out on the homework set for Easter. Fortunately Chelsea was more than eager to help her sort out the books that she'd have to take with her to her aunt Andromeda's.

She walked down the marble stair case alone, having said goodbye to Fred after breakfast that morning. Judy had guiltily handed him and George their Birthday presents, having forgotten to give them on their Birthday two days before. He'd offered to go with her to the station, but she'd refused, not wanting to shed any more tears than she already had these past weeks. She'd decided she was through with feeling sorry for herself, and even if her situation wasn't ideal, she'd just have to make the most of it.

'Performing magic out of class?' a familiar voice asked, suddenly. Judy startled.

'What?' she asked confused as Lupin approached her in his faded robes.

'Your trunk,' he gestured with a small smile. 'Don't worry, I won't tell anybody,' he said reassuringly as Judy cast a glance at her hovering trunk.

'Thank you,' said Judy with a small smile, not meeting his eyes.

'And you're not travelling alone after all, I see?' Lupin smiled as he looked at Duncan in the wicker basket Judy held in her left hand. 'Look after her, will you? She won't let me do so anymore…' Judy looked up at him.

'That's not true, Remus,' said Judy quickly.

'It isn't?' he asked, taken aback. 'Then why haven't I seen you in these past weeks? Well, not considering classes of course.'

'I thought you didn't want us to be seen together too often?' Judy offered innocently.

'Yes, I suppose never qualifies as not too often,' said Lupin sarcastically.

'I'm sorry, Remus. I've just been busy with catching up on homework from the three weeks I was sick. And I've been trying to deal with…'

'…a pair of extra eyes on you?' asked Lupin meaningfully.

'Did she tell on me?' asked Judy a bit annoyed.

'Judy, professor McGonagall,-'

'I know, I know…it's for my own protection,' said Judy quickly. 'And I know I shouldn't have spoken to her the way I did, but after all these years of keeping secrets haven't I earned a little trust?'

'Yes, you have,' said Lupin, much to Judy's surprise. 'It's not your intentions we are worried about…'

'Right,' Judy sighed. 'You're worried about the intentions of my murderous fa,-'

'Judy!' said Lupin warningly.

'Sorry,' she said quickly, realising she was only drawing more attention than she needed to get from her uncle. 'I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that.' Lupin only nodded. 'And it's not an excuse, but I just can't take much more next to dealing with homework and my…'

'Your friends?' asked Lupin sympathetically. 'Things aren't going well between you and Willow, are they?'

'No, and I don't think I can fix it…' she said sombrely.

'I don't know, Jude. You girls have been friends for years…such a friendship is not easily lost…' he added absently. Judy met his eyes, realising he wasn't only referring to her friendships.

'I hope so,' said Judy truthfully, unable to imagine a life where her bond with Willow would truly be broken.

'Well, I'd best not be keeping you,' said Lupin. 'I don't want you to miss the train.'

'Yeah,' said Judy, nodding absently.

'Give my regards to your aunt and uncle. And Dora of course,' he added quickly.

'Don't worry, I won't forget Dora,' said Judy, smiling as Lupin blushed slightly. 'I hope you have a good holiday, with not too much correction work.'

'I'll be fine, sweetheart,' said Lupin gently. 'Make sure you take enough rest in between homework assignments. I'm not convinced you're fully recovered yet,' he said, sounding a little concerned.

'I will,' Judy lied, knowing all too well that instead of gaining she would lose all the energy she'd been building up in the last three weeks.

'Good. Safe journey then,' he smiled.

'Yes, goodbye,' said Judy, turning on her heel to continue her way down the staircase. She didn't walk on, however, as she realised what she was doing. She looked down the stair case and then glanced up to make sure it was deserted. Then she turned on her heel.

'Jude, what's-' Lupin stopped talking as she flung herself around his neck and gave him the tightest and longest hug she'd ever given him. She kissed his cheek before pulling back.

'I love you,' she said warmly. 'Promise me you won't forget that.'

'I won't,' he said, looking back at her confused.

'Good,' she cast him a genuine smile before turning on her heel and heading down the stair case. She tried not to think on the possibility that she might have seen him for the last time, but instead tried to focus on their reunion. A reunion where she'd be able to tell him everything and where he would believe in Sirius' innocence and where he would know that some friendships were not lost after all.