Cedric's experience served as a warning bell for everyone.
To avoid becoming victims of Umbridge's abuse of Veritaserum, Harry had no choice but to urgently convene a Dumbledore's Army meeting to discuss how to handle the situation.
Under the watchful eyes of the Dumbledore's Army members, Cedric gave a detailed account of being summoned by the toad for tea and reminded everyone to stay alert.
"The toad has no reason to suspect us, does she? We didn't take the Self-Defense Guide," said a Ravenclaw girl.
"That was what I thought at first too. But after going to Umbridge's office, I got the feeling she might be reaching the end of her patience. A large-scale screening is only a matter of time." Cedric shook his head. "I'd say she's absolutely convinced that Dumbledore's Army exists."
"I'm not surprised the toad would do that. Don't hold on to any wishful thinking," Fred warned.
"The toad has already used Veritaserum. That stuff is illegal; even the Ministry of Magic is wary of using it, yet she openly used it on a student?" Harry swept his gaze across everyone present and said calmly, "If any of you are still clinging to wishful thinking, then all you can do is pray it doesn't happen to you."
"We signed a contract. Before the end of this term, betrayal comes at a price," Hermione reminded them.
Everyone's expressions turned rather ugly, and some even glared at Hermione.
"This was a risk you chose to take voluntarily. No one forced any of you from beginning to end," Harry reminded them calmly.
Yes, entirely voluntarily. They had confirmed it again and again before joining, but unfortunately, some people had already forgotten.
"All right, let's hear everyone's ideas. One at a time," Hermione said, changing the subject so no one