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Chapter 98 - Breaking the Pink

Izzy wasn't done. She intended to push the limits further, knowing that getting into Umbridge's bad books was part of her strategy to expose the woman's cruelty. As she walked the corridors of Hogwarts, her mind was focused on the upcoming confrontation.

Umbridge's office, with its sickly pink decor and endless rows of kitten plates, was a place that made Izzy's skin crawl. But she steeled herself, determined to make her point and gather more evidence.

She knocked on the door, hearing Umbridge's simpering voice call her in. "Come in, Miss Black."

Izzy entered, her expression calm but with a steely determination in her eyes. Umbridge looked up from her desk, her smile as false as ever. "What can I do for you today, dear?"

"I wanted to ask you something, Professor Umbridge," Izzy began, her voice steady. "A question about your detentions."

Umbridge's smile widened, though it did not reach her eyes. "Oh? And what might that be, Miss Black?"

Izzy met her gaze directly. "How do you justify using such punishments on a member of House Black? Aren't you afraid of provoking the ire of one of the most influential families in the wizarding world?"

The question hung in the air, the tension palpable. Umbridge's smile faltered slightly, but she quickly recovered. "The Black family name does not exempt you from following the rules, Miss Black. In fact, I believe that someone of your lineage should set a better example."

Izzy's eyes narrowed. "And you think using a Blood Quill is an appropriate way to enforce those rules?"

Umbridge's eyes flashed with anger, her facade of sweetness slipping. "You dare to question my methods, Miss Black? I will not tolerate insolence. Detention tonight. The same as before."

Izzy nodded, her expression unwavering. "Of course, Professor."

As she left Umbridge's office, Izzy couldn't help but feel a mixture of triumph and dread. She had provoked Umbridge, but she had also pushed the boundaries further. The evidence she was gathering would be crucial in bringing Umbridge's cruelty to light.

The night of the detention, Izzy sat in Umbridge's office once more, the Blood Quill in her hand. The words "I must not question authority" etched into her skin again, but this time she felt a deeper resolve. She was not just enduring this for herself, but for all the students who had suffered under Umbridge's tyranny.

After the detention, she made her way back to Dumbledore's office, her hand throbbing with pain but her mind sharp with purpose. She showed him the fresh wounds, and Dumbledore's expression hardened.

"We must act swiftly," he said. "The evidence you are gathering is undeniable. We will present this to the Wizengamot and the Ministry."

Izzy nodded, her resolve strengthening. She knew the road ahead would be challenging, but with each step, she was closer to breaking the oppressive hold Umbridge had on Hogwarts. 

Izzy smiled as she went to bed that night, casting a spell to heal her wounds. Unlike Potter in the books who was content waiting out and hiding from Umbridge, Izanami had already decided to screw the plotline. She wanted to break down the pink menace and liberate Hogwarts from her oppressive rule.

The next morning, Izzy awoke with renewed determination. She knew that her actions would put her at greater risk, but the potential reward—a Hogwarts free from Umbridge's tyranny—was worth it. She quickly got dressed and headed to the Great Hall for breakfast. Her resolve was mirrored in the steely determination of her eyes.

She sat down at the Slytherin table, glancing around the hall. The usual chatter of students filled the air, but there was an undercurrent of tension that had been present since Umbridge's arrival. Izzy's eyes flicked over to the Gryffindor table, where Harry, Hermione, and Ron were deep in conversation. She made a mental note to speak with them later; their assistance could be invaluable in her efforts.

As the day progressed, Izzy attended her classes, her mind always on her plan to undermine Umbridge. She carefully observed the interactions between the professors and students, noting any signs of dissent or support for Umbridge's regime. Every piece of information was a potential weapon in her fight.

In the afternoon, she found herself in the library, poring over books on wizarding law and magical artifacts. She was determined to find a way to legally challenge Umbridge's authority, using her extensive knowledge of magic and the law to build a case against her.

Luna joined her, slipping into the seat next to her with a dreamy smile. "What are you working on, Izzy?"

Izzy looked up, a small smile playing on her lips. "I'm researching ways to get rid of Umbridge. Legally, of course."

Luna's eyes sparkled with interest. "That sounds like quite an adventure. How can I help?"

"Just being here helps," Izzy replied, feeling a warmth in her chest at Luna's unwavering support. "But if you come across any books on wizarding politics or legal precedents, let me know."

Luna nodded, her eyes scanning the shelves. "I'll keep an eye out. In the meantime, would you like to take a break and have some tea with me?"

Izzy hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Sure, a break sounds good."

As they sipped their tea, Luna's presence provided a much-needed respite from the constant strategizing. They chatted about mundane topics, letting the tension of the day melt away.

Later that evening, Izzy found herself back in the Room of Requirement, the space transforming into a strategic command center at her unspoken request. She spread out her notes, maps, and books, creating a comprehensive plan to expose Umbridge's abuses.

She worked late into the night, her mind buzzing with ideas and strategies. She knew that breaking down the pink menace would not be easy, but with every step she took, she grew more confident in her ability to succeed.

Before going to bed, she cast a spell to soothe her tired mind, allowing herself a few hours of restful sleep. As she drifted off, she smiled to herself, knowing that she was on the right path. Unlike the passive resistance of Harry in the books, Izanami Black was actively fighting back, determined to bring down Dolores Umbridge and restore peace to Hogwarts.