Chapter 11: Full Moon Rising
Later that day a white mini van made its way to a house on the edge of a forest. It was a medium sized house, with a nice picket fence and two big trees on the back. A family of three came out of the car, they seemed tired but happy to be together. You could hear the laughter of their small child when his mum started kissing him.
"Mum, can we go play in the swing."
"Not now honey, Mum is tired. Why don't we go inside and watch a movie while Daddy cooks for us."
"Yay. Let's watch a scary movie. Can we see the one with the bad werewolf?" the parents both visibly paled.
"How about we watch the one with the witch, Honey. I don't want to have nightmares." said his Mother gently.
"Don't worry Mommy I'll protect you." she gave him a hug and walked with him into the house. Before entering she glanced at the house directly in front of hers and gave a slight nod with her head.
A man was watching from that one. He was a tall dark man, with a bald head and an earring on his left ear, and, to the wonder of the woman walking her dog, he was holding a long stick firmly in his hand, as if his life depended on it. He watched as the trio made their way to the house and then walked away from the window and threw some powder into a chimney and called an address.
"They are in. There seems to be no problem."' on the other side a gruff voice answered him.
"Keep an eye on them. Greyback is no fool, he will be watching."
"Yes sir." he got his head out of the flames and went back to the window. You could see the Family sitting down on a couch watching a box with people inside, the instrument muggles call a television. After inspecting the area, to the best of his ability, he went back to the fire place. This time a man with long black hair answered him.
"How's the situation?" he asked
"She's in. There seems to be no problem. But I'll be keeping an eye on her for now."
"Take care of her."
"She's no child Sirius. I'm watching her back, but she can take care of herself."
"I know. But I also know how dangerous a fully transformed werewolf can be."
"Listen I need to go. I'll be checking the perimeter. I flooed you just to let you know that she won't be going to Headquarters in the next two weeks." before the other man could answer he was out of the fire place and walking to the front door.
Night came, and quiet spread through the houses and the street. A light could be seen in one of the houses, it was illuminating the dinning room. There around a wood table sat a family slowly eating.
"I don't want my vegetables." said a little five year old boy
"Adam, broccoli is good for you eat it." answered the Father
"But Daddy, it's green. What if I eat and don't like it?"
"Not everything tastes good Adam, sometimes we just have to stop complaining and do what grown ups tell us."
"But Mommy isn't eating it." the older man shot a glare to his wife,
"That is because Mommy likes it so much, she's eating it alone." she sent him a glare
"Is that true Mommy?" he had an amazed look on his face
"Yes honey I like it very much. And you should eat it if you want to grow into a big strong man like your Daddy." she said smiling at her son, when he didn't move the fork his Father snapped
"Young man eat the broccoli or no dessert." he looked at his mother pleadingly
"Listen to your father."
"Okay." he said, and making all the faces of the world he ate it
Tonks POV
I don't know how I can pull this off. I don't think the maternal instincts like me too much. But I'll make it through, I can do this. Deep calming breaths, it won't be so hard taking care of a five year old, piece of cake. Unless of course he decides to climb on top of the T.V. and jump of, to be like the hero in the movie we saw (like he did ten minutes ago)… Or suddenly wants to make magic and finds his Father's wand and starts waving it around (Moody would have a feast if he saw that), like the other movie we saw, and turns everything into chickens (like he did two minutes after I took him off the T.V).
Okay this kid is getting to much television time, I will read him a book next time. I sound like Remus, or Hermione ( I like her, she's a very bright witch, but that girl needs to focus her attention on something else, and I think that Ron may be a subject she'll like to study). Don't get me wrong, I love to read, but haven't got time, maybe after all this is over I'll read something. Maybe Molly will let me borrow her book.
Thoughts of books take me to Remus, and our last time on a library. All I can say is that it was very amusing, I must admit that I never took him for a romantic, I have to tease him a little when I get back. And of course I remember clearly my unexpected departure, he looked so worried when I left. Probably because he knows that this won't be a piece of cake; this would be more like me making the cake and not a mess (hard, very, very hard). I hear a noise and see Adam coming from his room.
"Mummy, can you come with me to the bathroom."
Okay: sweet face, puppy dog eyes, innocent smile; maybe I do have the maternal instincts because the are on red alert now. Adam wants something.
"Of course Baby." before coming here, I did a spell with Rose, which allows me to remember details from Adam's life, as if I were his real mother. Thus, he won't notice the difference and will have no trauma.
"Mummy, why do I have to bath?"
"Because, don't you want to grow up a strong handsome man like your father?" Someone kill me now. I can't believe those words escaped my lips, I don't even think him attractive.
"Yes."
"Then, you have to take a bath. That way the garnl can't stop you from growing."
"But Mommy, Daddy didn't take a bath, and he's still big and strong.."
"That is because your father is a grown man, who eats his vegetables ."
"Okay Mum. Mommy can you stay with me in the bathroom?"
"Why do you want me to stay with you Honey?"
"Because I'm scared."
"What are you scared off? Nothing will harm you while I'm here." And that is a promise.
"I know, but Mommy I'm scared of what the beggar man can do to you."
"What beggar man Honey?"
"The man that was here the other night when you where working. He and Daddy where shouting and he said that Daddy would be sorry."
This was not reported, what is this man thinking he's playing at? Greyback is dangerous, stupid male pride. I could just go and curse his very important limb out, see how his pride goes.
"Don't worry Honey, nothing bad will happen to you."
"I love you Mommy." I hugged him and kissed him in the cheek.
"I love you too."
After making sure Adam was on his bed, sleeping…. I went to find Mr. I-can-do-everything-myself, we need to have a little chat, and he 'ain't going to like it. I found him on the room we are supposed to be sharing, (me on the bed, he in the pull out bed) he's sleeping on the couch now.
"Is Adam asleep?" he said getting his pillow and going to the bed
"Yes, he is. Carl, why didn't you tell me that Greyback had come here, in person to threaten you?" I said while making my way to my bed.
"What? Who told you that?" he said looking everywhere but me.
"Adam." he looked to the door and then to me, as if trying to decide if it was worth a try getting out of the room. I will like to see him try.
"He was probably lying."
"If I know something about little kids, it's that they don't lie. But grown men do." his hand went to his wand… just what I needed, a duel with the very man I'm trying to protect.
"Yes, Greyback was here." he said, apparently thinking better of it and putting his wand down once again.
"What did he want ? What was he doing here? And why didn't you tell me?"
"He wanted to remake his offer. When I refused he told me to be careful and threatened to kill my wife."
"Didn't he make the same offer before? Why didn't you tell the Aurors?"
"It was not my idea to tell the Aurors of what had happened , it was yours Rose. Besides I can handle him."
"No you can't, when the full moon comes he'll turn into a monster that can kill you in seconds."
"I'm a very powerful wizard, I can protect my family." he said looking very confident. Why?, why did he have to be the hard headed macho man?
"No, you are a very wealthy wizard, who comes from a pure blood line. That doesn't mean that you can stop a werewolf."
"I don't have to listen to this, let's just go to sleep and forget about it."
"Oh no Mister, you are sleeping in the couch."
"What? This is my house."
"And mine also, remember honey we are married." he gave me a dirty look, and went outside the room. After making sure the windows were covered I cast an imperturbable charm on the door, threw some powder in the fire and called the address, quickly I saw Kings on the other side, he smiled a little.
"So how was your first day as a surrogate mother and wife?"
"Actually, I think I'm doing pretty good. But I have some news."
"What happened?"
"Apparently Fenrir was here, and someone didn't think it important to tell us." the water he was drinking, suddenly came out of his nose. That seems to be happening a lot around me lately.
"When?" Kings didn't look happy. No one likes Kings when he is not happy (yes, not even me).
"I don't have an exact date, when Rose was working late at night, Adam told me. Add that to the file please."
"Yes, of course, and by the way you are having visitors in two days." I groaned
"What? Who?"
"The Vane family, with four adults, three kids ages 5, 7, and 2 and a teenager named Romilda Vane, she's your husbands niece. They'll be leaving that same day, don't worry. Oh, and I better warn you Romilda Vane is on her third year at Hogwarts, in Gryffindor and obsessed with Harry Potter."
"Don't worry? I'm watching over a five year old boy who thinks jumping of the t.v. is a good idea, and now you tell me I have a teenager and kids coming too. Not to mention the whole Vane family and stuck up pride."
"You forgot the part of the hero worship." he said sarcastically
"I don't like you too much right now." I said
"You are an Auror for Merlin's sake!! The best of the best. You defeated a manticore in your examination, put your "fiancé" in Azkcaban and you are telling me you can't deal with a kid?"
"Hey if you are not in my situation you have no opinion. This kid has the best puppy dog eyes I have ever seen, and his father thinks he's all powerful. And Rutherford was not my fiancé."
"Your problem, get ready for them." I stuck my head out of the fireplace, this is going to be one hell of two weeks.
…The life of this man's wife does not suit me. I'm impressed that he married a muggle, he should have married someone like Aunt Cissy or Bella by the looks of it… Adam has turn out to be a little dare devil, it'll be a miracle if he turns 11.… Two days have gone by and I found myself making dinner for my In-law family. The Vane's got here at 12:00pm… and it is a shame that I'm posing as a muggle because that girl, Romilda Vane, is the Devils child. I swear if I hear something more about how she's 'all that' I am going to hex her.
"Aunt Rose, could you please get Adam away from me. He might ruin my new robes. I don't want him to drool over them." she said, pushing the little kid into my arms
"He's five Romilda, I don't think he'll drool over anything, unless you count candy." she gave me a look that could kill and went outside. She would have made Aunt Cissy proud.
"Mommy, why doesn't she like me?" Adam asked, a hint of sadness in his voice
"It's not that she doesn't like you . But she's older and thinks she knows everything." I said kissing him on the forehead. "But don't worry Honey, she'll change her mind."
"Okay Mommy." he went and started playing with his younger, and more sensible, cousins.
Just then my 'husband' came looking for me and we walked to the patio. Hand in hand like a loving couple... I had to breath deeply not to puke all over him, it's not the fact of the 'loving couple', but that it is me trying to act all lovingly and devoted to a man I want to hex. Of course if my family in law notice anything different they assumed it is because of Greyback... The sun light starts to go weaker by the moment and everyone starts going inside.
"It has been a lovely evening Rose. You sure know how to cook." said Emilia Vane, my husband's brother wife, the nice one as I found out. Because my husband's sister turned out to be a sick evil witch (in every sense) and if I get another comment on how sad it is that I'm a muggle and can't protect my family I'm going to turn her into a toad.
"Yes this food is rather good, for being made by hand." I was near her with a glass of red wine, when I accidentally stumbled and dropped it on her white dress, how clumsy of me.
"I'm sorry that was very clumsy of me." my husband gave me a look. Oh right I forgot… Rose is the kind soul that forgets the insults.
"It's all right Rose, but now I think it is time for everyone to go home. We'll see you to the fire place." once they had all left he turned to where I was washing the dishes. Adam was asleep in the couch in the living room and he took the opportunity to round up on me.
"What did you think, doing that to my sister?"
"For one she insulted your wife in every aspect of her life. From being a muggle to the shoes. Besides she's a witch, she can clean that with a move of her wrist." I said, paying attention to the very slippery dishes in my hand, and trying not to break any.
"It still gave you no right to do that." Okay, this is the last drop, I let the plate fall into the sink. As it fell I turned around to face him.
"But what did I do that could offend her? Would you rater have me say that your wife married you because she loved you and love is the most powerful of magic, one that even a muggle can control? And that at least she has the good graces to love someone. After all I assumed that you got married for love right?" he nodded, well at least that is a bonus point for him.
"You shouldn't have said anything, Rose always chose other ways to show her discomfort. Like making a comment like how being a muggle made her more in tune with her son, and she has said that love bit quite some times." I am starting to like Rose a little more.
"What about you? Why do you let them talk to your wife like that?" he looked at me for a moment. And it occurs to me how strange it is for him to be living with someone who looks exactly like his wife but is a total stranger, maybe I'll go easier next time on him.
"They are my family." with that he went into the bathroom and locked himself in it.
I finished cleaning the dishes (I didn't break anything !!!!, valuable that is ) and went to take a shower. When I was making my way to the bed I saw Kingsley's face in the fire. He looked distress, to say the least. And that is never good, he is always the calm and collected Auror, nothing is supposed to get to him.
"Floo over here." he said, voice grave. I grabbed a night dressing gown and walked to the fireplace. Thanking Merlin I'm wearing pants.
"Okay Kings, what is it?" I said once I was on the other house, this room was crowded with Aurors.
"We have heard rumors that Greyback is using the potion to attack in his faculties." oh shite, shite, shite, shite, shite, shite…..
"When did you find out? And more importantly how?" Okay, stay calm, take deep even breaths. You are a trained professional, you can do this.
"We had an informant. He was at a pub when he heard that Greyback was threatening an apothecary to brew him the potion."
"Fuc…get that." Kings gave me a look that meant he knew exactly what "Improper Auror Language" I was about to use. "Okay so I know and I'll be more careful."
"That's not all Tonks."
"What else? Instead of being here I'll go and seduce him, and in the process get my head rip off. Hell no, I'm dedicated to my job, but not crazy enough to try to fool that man in that way. Hell I wouldn't care if I could actually get him first, but you know…." I am rambling, that's what I do when I'm nervous. No one took to much notice, we all have our little breaks from propriety once in a while (that I usually do it with IAM and when I have paper work is just a bonus.)
"Scrimegour wants you out." said Kings interrupting my monologue.
"WHAT!! WHY??? That's worst, I think it'll be best if I give the seducing idea a try… And no way that I'm going to back out of this case." he raises his eyebrows. Yeah I know disrespectful, well right know I really don't fucking care.
"Before you say anything else. Let me introduce you to our informant." Kings gave me the look the one that made most Aurors piss their pants.
"Right now, don't you think I'm a little indecent?"
"I won't worry too much, I can assure you he's a complete gentleman." and this will be my payback for disrespecting me said his eyes, fine then so be it. One of the other Aurors huffed as if annoyed. "You alright there Balaguer?" said Kings with the same look.
"Yes Sir." he's one of the many that piss their pants.
"Okay." I said and moved my night robe as I tried to cover myself. However, I stopped when I realized that whoever it was had already seen me, and that my nightgown really left everything to the imagination.
"Mr. Remus Lupin this is Auror Nymphadora Tonks. Auror Tonks this is Mr. Remus Lupin, he has extensive knowledge of werewolves and has studied them for quite some time." I was surprise, shocked and happy to see him here. What I wanted was to hug him, but instead I settled for shaking his outstretched hand.
"Nice meting you Auror Tonks." he said with that charming smile on his face, damn he's cute… Where the hell did that come from? And is it me, or is the room a little hotter?
"The pleasure is all mine Mr. Lupin. I thank you for giving us more information, this new development is useful."
"I was just doing my job as a civilian." Very sly Professor, I know Sirius has you on my case.
"Auror Shackelbot, since you are the higher ranking officer here I would like to speak privately with you, and Mr. Lupin, about what we are going to do." I said my voice taking an authoritative tone.
"About what Tonks?" asked Kingsley
"While you know that I don't normally go against my Superiors orders." there was a collected huff from everyone in the room, and Remus rose his eyebrow at me. "I am afraid that am going to oppose to this one to my dying breath." I saw a small worried look pass Kings face, he seemed to be weighting his options. Doesn't really matter I'll be staying here regardless.
"Very well Tonks. Everybody except Mr. Lupin out now."
"Why does he get to stay?" interrupted Balaguer. I went up to him before Kings got the chance to open his mouth.
"Because Auror Felicious Balaguer, Auror Shackelbot told me Mr. Lupin knows plenty about werewolves. So he's more help to me than you with your prejudices."
"Leave us." said Kingsley, Balaguer did not look to happy
Once they where all gone, Remus and I quietly imperturbed the room. After we finished we simply looked at each other and then I hugged him, what can I say. I needed the comfort, and he is quite huggable.
"What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be keeping a certain someone company."
"Well hello to you to Nymphadora. How are you doing?"
"It's Tonks, Remus. And yes I'm fine thank you. How are you?"
"I'm fine, Nymphadora." I glared at him, I'll tame him. He's stubborn , but so am I.
"So Kings, how is it that Scrimegour got the idea to pull me out?" I said walking away from Remus and seating next to Kings.
"I thought it would be a good idea to inform him that you are barely out of the training…"
"Barely out. One year, and I don't mean to brag, but I already have one mayor nutcase behind bars on Azkcaban. Doing exactly what I'm doing now. Something that not many other Aurors can match up."
"I know Tonks."
"Then why, for the love of Merlin, did your boss think it would be appropriate to get me out?"
"Because we have reports that Greyback is using the potion, which…"
"Allows him to keep his mind while he is on a wolf state. Making him as fast and strong as a wolf and the mind of the man stays the same, and he becomes a very good strategist, specially if he's with a pack."
"Nice, where did you learn that? You were only asked to study him." asked Kings
"I had a little help from a certain Professor. Who always calls me by the wrong name." and past experience, but I'm not about to go and say that.
"Okay. Then I guess Remus here should be the one to give you advise." he said, and I didn't miss the look on his face as he signaled Remus.
"Very well, Remus, what do you think?" I asked as I turned to him, he looked slightly worried
"If I told you to pack up and think of something else, would you do it?" he looked me in the eyes, he knows the answer to that.
"No."
"Then I guess all you can do is practice defensive spells and keep on the look out for anything suspicious."
"That's all you're going to say? Someone is going to kick your arse when he sees you." said Kingsley, with a wistful look on his face.
"I'm pretty sure that Remus can take him anytime." I said smiling.
"Very well then. Tonks, you'll have daily training sessions. During which the real Mrs. Vane will spend some time with her son and husband."
"Yes!!!" I said a little too fast, Remus raised his eyebrow and Kings looked at me questioningly. "I'm sorry to say that my husband is nothing like I imagined, I mean he's not even more than civil, I could fall down those stairs and he would just pass me by, with only a "Darling, watch your step.""
"How do you know?" asked Kings.
"Personal experience." both men smiled. "It's not funny you know."
"Never thought it was." said Remus
"So, it was good seeing you both. But I think someone has to go and talk to Scrimegour about your plans, Tonks. So I'll leave you two." he stood up and went out the door. "You owe me big time, Nymphadora." I would have curse him right there for using my given name, but I do owe him.
"So Remus, tell me, who was the one that told you about the bar?" I said sitting Yoga style
"A little dog." he said sitting down on the couch next to me. I let out a little laugh.
"I figured as much."
"So how do you feel?" he asked looking me up and down, as if trying to find anything wrong with me
"I'm fine. Really, just a little tired after today. But hey, at least I didn't break anything, valuable."
"So how's married life treating you?" he said teasing
"I can and will complain about it, if you ask again." I said, "But I guess I can go easy on Carl, it must be hard to be with a complete stranger who looks exactly like his wife."
"At least you only have 3 more days until the full moon week starts. It'll be over soon."
"Yeah, at least I have putting Greyback in a cell at the tip of my fingers. I'm going to get him Remus, and he's going to pay for everything he's done." he looked at me curiously surprised at my outburst , even I am.
"I know you are, Nymphadora. But you must promise to be careful."
"Remus, my job's description should read: Not for those faint of heart, it isn't going to cut it for you if you're careful. I have to take risks, every Auror does, we are not careful we are prepared."
"I just don't want you to die for carrying out a vengeance."
"It's not vengeance persé, it's more like avoiding what's happened to so many people to happen once more. And if I can save at least one person from that hell, I'll consider this a success."
"I see you inherited the Black stubbornness." he said looking at me with that look I can't quite place.
"I'll take that as a compliment." I said smiling
"It was. By the way, your Cousin says that you can ditch your job and come live the fugitive life with him." I laughed, that sounds like him alright.
"Well tell him that, as tempting as it sounds. I can't right now, but that I'll take him out for a walk when I go back."
"I'll pass your message on my Lady." he said as he stood, bowed down, grabbed my hand and gave it a kiss.
"Why thank you my Lord."
"Well it's late and I have to go, there's a meeting."
"Oh, I wish you could stay. Well, anyway, say wotcher to everyone from me." I went to him and gave him a kiss on the cheek.
"Good-bye Nymphadora."
"It's Tonks, Remus." he gave me a sly smile and walked out the room. That man…
I walked to the fire place, and once one the other house went to bed. I snuggled under the covers and fell asleep almost immediately. Next morning I got up to the sound of Adam opening the door to his parents room, this gave me the time to change my appearance to his mother. I pretended to be asleep as he made his way to the bed; slowly he climbed up and started shaking me.
"Mommy I'm hungry." he said softly to my ears, I turned away from him. "Mommy, can I have cake from yesterday today?"
"Mommy is not here at the moment, but if you leave a message after the kiss she'll be happy to make breakfast for you." and instead of the beeping sound I grabbed the kid and started kissing him. This little dare devil has grown on me, I am enjoying every moment I spend with him… even if he does give me a migraine sometimes.
"No, Mum. That tickles." he said while I switched from tactics. I stopped, so we could both catch our breath.
"Very well, Adam. I am now awake. What do you want for breakfast?" he suddenly got up and ran out of the room, saying something about chocolate chip pancakes. I am going to miss him, after this assignment is over.
Tonight is the full moon and I will find myself face to face with Greyback, I am not entirely sure I'm up for the challenge. Specially because I've been training my arse out in the simulation rooms at Auror Headquarters, and I am exhausted… The real Mrs. Vane is with her kid and husband in the zoo. I went back to their house and after setting some wards I left for number Twelve, we'll meet later on their house were she'll floo out and I'll take the role of devoted wife again..
After I opened the door, and of course tripped over that damned thing right in the middle, I went directly to my room to get some peaceful sleep. Why I came here and not to my flat is still a mystery. Sirius is probably feeding Buckbeak and I truly want to see him (I do!) but I am just to tired and I need my rest. After what seemed like minutes I got up from my bed and, pajamas and all, walked to the kitchen. It seemed that there was no one there so I grabbed a cup and made myself some hot coffee. I sat down and put my cup on the table without tasting the coffee, someone come down the stairs.
"Hey sleeping beauty!!! You are finally up." Sirius came and gave me a bone-crushing hug and sat opposite to me.
"You knew I was here?"
"Tonks, only you can fall over the umbrella stand every single time."
"What can I say, it's my trade mark."
"So, tonight's the night."
"Yes it is."
"Don't worry you'll be fine. Just trust your instincts and when in doubt, scream like a little girl and ask for your Mum." he said, and I laughed.
"Yes, I'm sure that will do a lot of good. And 'm not kissing, Mum can be hell when she's mad."
"I know." he said, rubbing his arm.
"I'm leaving three hors before nighttime…" he got that hunted look on his eyes, the one that was present when talking about Azkaban or Wormtail, or something that he thinks was all his fault.
"Be careful, I don't want to loose you so short after finding you." Sirius looked the most serious (no pun intended) and grave I have ever seen him.
"Don't worry, now that we've found each other, only death will do us apart." I said as I rested my head against his shoulder and fell asleep once again.
On the first night of the full moon nothing happened, neither did the second or the third. Tension is building on the house, and as much as I try not to I'm starting to get frustrated. I just feel a little annoyed at Greyback, there have been three full moons already, can he just come on and get this over with. I flooed to the other house, and had a long chat with Kings and practice a couple of spells that could be useful... According to Kingsley getting me annoyed is exactly what Greyback wants, to get me unfocused. What Greyback doesn't know is that he's dealing with a woman oN PMS and that is not something to be messed with.
Needless to say my "Husband" is getting very annoyed, he thinks I should be out there patrolling the house night and day, apparently he doesn't know that when you are undercover the number one rule is to lay low. Still some strange things have been happening: for starters every night I see a big black dog walking around the neighborhood but whenever someone from the squadron goes to check it out he disappears, and that every morning there is a new threat written in blood in a parchment in the front door.
"Just what do you think you are doing?" I asked Carl on the fourth day, when I saw him with the keys on his hands and Adam on his side.
"I'm taking Adam to my Mother's house, Darling."
"But why don't you leave him here, and we all watch a movie?" I asked him, trying to keep the annoyance out of my voice.
"Because my Mother wants to see him, and you know that the wards around the house will not let you get through because you are a muggle."
"Very well then, have fun." I said, realizing that tonight was a full moon, that I'm posing as a muggle and that I'm going to be all alone. This is just a window of opportunity that Greyback will not miss.
After they had gone I closed all the doors and windows and went to see a movie on the room. About one hour later, half an hour before the moon rose, I heard knocking on the door. Knowing perfectly well who it is I got up and made sure I had my wand on a place close to me so I could use it when I needed it. The knocking on the door became more insistent and hard, as if the one doing it wanted to break the door.
"Coming." I called, as I went down the stairs. Checking once again that my wand was close by I opened the door. On the other side was a man looking as he just stood out of a fighting pitch or who spend the last years of his life living in a dumpster without a change of clothes, or a bath.
"Hello. Are you Rose Vane?" he said in what I took to be his 'polite' tone of voice, even when it sounded raspy, as he was more used to shouting than speaking on a low tone.
"Yes, I am. May I know who you are?" even when my strongest desire is to put him in Azckaban right now, I need for him to attack me first, with magic or as a werewolf; otherwise he could just say that he is a vagabond looking for shelter and that I attacked him for no reason. Not that the jury would take too much care to see that what he said was true once they find out he's a werewolf, but I like to do things the right way.
"My name is Fenrir Greyback." he said calmly while I stood away from the door with a carefully positioned look of fright on my face. At the same time, I saw a black dog by my side. Not knowing from were it came from, but knowing that it wasn't through the front door actually scared me a little. Still apparently it meant me no harm since it was bearing his teeth at Greyback.
"What are you doing here?"
"Why, can't a business partner come and say hi."
"I do not know you." wow, I should receive an award for this performance
"You don't, don't ya lass. Oh don't worry ye little mind. I know your husband, he and I have a deal. You area muggle, aren't ya." he said licking his lips and looking at me as if I was his next meal. Which I'm sure he thinks I am.
"He's not here now, so if you just came back later or tomorrow, I'm sure he would be happy to see you."
"Now, you'll have a tired man like myself going back to the street, would ya."
"No, but…"
"See I knew you were a good girl, now let me in." he said the last words as a command, but I stood my ground
"No, sir. I'm sorry you cannot come in."
"Listen to me you little wench." he said grabbing me by the arms and raising me 1 foot above the ground. The dog at my feet started barking but nothing happed, it was as if someone had trapped all the sound inside the house, I couldn't even hear the crickets that usually where chirping at this time. "You are letting me in, whether you like it or not. And we are going to wait." he threw me and I landed in the couch. Where is the squad, they should have been here when they saw that
"Wait for what?" he only gave me a smile, which even when I didn't want it to, scared the crap out of me.
By this time, he had come inside the house and closed the door softly behind him. He was looking around interested, taking pictures and asking me almost the same questions I had asked Rose Vane not 3 weeks ago, only difference is that I wanted to put her at ease, while what he wanted was to make fun of every memory the family had. The dog was still at my side, not having been prepare for two intruders at the same time I was quietly studying him; when suddenly he turned to me and something in his neck glowed.
Looking back at Greyback, I noticed that he was still looking around. Not being high on patience I pulled the dog to were I was and touched the glowing light in his neck (if moody knew he would have a feast)
It was then I heard the sweet cursing of my dear cousin.
"Stupid idiot, she could have just called me. I hope I don't have a bald spot."
"Sirius? Is that you? Where are you?"
"Yes. I'm the dog, who else? You should really learn to recognize me when I'm Snuffels."
"What the hell do you think you are doing here?"
"Hey you sound like Molly, if you want to be angry at someone be at Remus, he's the one who came up with this idea."
"Molly knows you are here?"
"Yes, and she would have given Remus hell, if it wasn't for the fact that this is not really his best week. He came up with the idea of me coming here."
"He did what? I'm going to murder that man, and you; why do you listen to him, there is an Auror squad out there if the catch you we are both dead meat."
"Nymphadora…"
"It's Tonks." I told him, even when I know this is not the moment.
"This is not really the moment to worry about things like that. Listen, I'm just here to help you, I know how to bodily control a werewolf you don't." just as I was going to answer him, I heard Greyback talking.
"This is a nice little boy." he said grabbing a picture of Adam. "Where is he?"
"I am not telling you, you brute." he threw the picture at my head, making me have to lye in the couch so it wouldn't hit me. Then he came to where I was and grabbed me by the throat, squeezing as he said.
"You have spirit… I like that, girls with spirit always taste better…"
After he said this he put his head in my hair and smelled it, I thank Merlin that I had taken the potion only 5 minutes before… I have never felt more repulsed, all I wanted was to get a bath and probably shed all the skin that he had touched… as he squeezed I tried everything to get him off me, but nothing seemed to work. While that was happening Sirius started barking at him, when that didn't work he jumped on Greyback, effectively pushing him of me, unfortunately that got him a swift kick on the ribs.
"Control that damn dog." I went running to Sirius side, he is coming back to his senses. "Now, be a good lass and stay here. Don't leave the house." he said, an apparently not trusting me, he send a charm and bolted the door.
"Sirius, Sirius are you okay?"
"Damn stupid werewolf. You see what I mean, you couldn't get him off you, you need me here."
"Alright, I don't see why not, but you must promise me to go when the other Aurors get here. And one more question, how come we are talking and not moving our mouths?"
"You can thank Moony for that." even when I waited for a longer explanation, none came.
"So, do you have any plan as to what you are going to do?" I asked him, Merlin I don't want to be worried for both our necks.
"Don't worry, I'll only be your defense when you are not able to control him… He's yours the rest of the time."
"Okay, now there is a doggie door on the kitchen door, if anything should happen I want you to get out of here and warn the Aurors. I don't know why they haven't come here yet, but I'm guessing some kind of muffiato." I said, my Auror calculating mind coming into play
"Tonks, nothing will happen." said Sirius, though I felt a slight tremor in his voice
"We can't be sure about that. Now he'll probably transform in front of me and do some sort of circle around me. I want you to stay at my side and don't attack only I say so."
He didn't have time to answer for we heard crashes at the top of the stairs, frantically I looked outside. The sun had already banished and there was a soft light illuminating the front yard. Okay, so this means he is transformed. Sirius and I stood there in silence, trying to hear even the whispers of fairies. I took my wand out and had it ready to use, when a loud knock was heard from the kitchen door. The window next to it let me see about six werewolves on the outside of the house, each taking turns to hit the door. I turned and ran to it casting a fortifying charm on it, effectively turning it as hard as a wall made of bricks…
"Okay Sirius, forget about the kitchen door." when he didn't answer I turned around and had to stifle a scream
Unfortunately, my lapse in total connection with the situation caused another problem. The werewolf that is inside the house had come down the stairs and was standing not 10 feet away from me. The only thing I could do was stare. He is huge!!! Once my mind had come to terms with that, my Auror training came forth, and the first thing I did was take in his appearance like I would a normal suspect and try to find a weakness.
His fur is a midnight black colour and his eyes are blood red. He must be about six feet tall when standing on his hind legs. His claws are sharp and long. He has no strange markings except for a cut on the top of his left eye. He also seemed to be looking at me, trying to see if I am an easy prey. His eyes suddenly found the wand on my hand and he barred his long, white and very sharp fangs.
He pounced on me, it was so unexpected that I only had time to duck him and run from the kitchen, trying to find a place where I could have more movement space. He didn't follow me instantly, instead he let out a long and loud howl that made my blood turn cold and my heart beat faster; specially when I heard it answered from those outside… I know what he's doing, he's toying with me, trying to make me nervous, so I will slip and make a mistake, but I won't, he is going to Azckaban tonight…
All those thoughts were forgotten once I came into the family room, there on a mess of blood was lying Snuffles. My heart stopped beating for a moment.
Merlin, no not him… please not him.
When I came close I saw that he was still breathing. I had to turn him on his side, which got the blood all over my hands, shirt and pants; so I could see the damage, luckily he had no bite wound, but a rather nasty gash on his side. I looked around the room trying to find something to use to stop the flowing of blood. Seeing as I needed time to tend his wounds I send a charm against the door causing it to close and bolt, seconds before Greyback started throwing himself against it, trying to open it... Knowing that I didn't have much time, I cast a protective bubble around us both. I still needed something to stop the blood from coming and knowing that I didn't have any other choice, I called upon old magic and healed Sirius…
He opened his eyes immediately. In contrast that little stunt had left me a little weak. He took one look at me and then at my bloody hands and stomach. His eyes widened but I smiled, trying to assure him that I was alright, and I remembered that Remus had done something so we could speak to one another.
Merlin I feel so stupid, how could I forget about that? After this is over I think I'm going to resign my job and go with sometime more easy, finger painting sounds nice…. I shook my head trying to get stupid thoughts away from my head, now is not the time to be sarcastic with myself. I answered Sirius questioning look.
"I'm fine Sirius.. It's just that the little spell I did on you left me a bit tired. I'll be fine." there was more knocking sounds heard at the other side of the door. This took my mind back to the task at hand.
"Okay, Siry. We are both alright. Now, we have a very angry werewolf at the other side of the door and at least six more outside."
"Where are the Aurors?" he asked
"I don't know, they should have been here already... So we are just relaying on each other here. I want you to stay here and pretend to still be injured. I'm going to open the door and I'm going to pretend the protective charm is not working and it will disappear." Greyback threw himself against the door again, this time it shook a lot more, the spell is starting to wear. "When that happens we both know he's going to try and attack me. I will send a spell to tie his paws as soon as I can. Once he's down I'll open and close the front door for you. After you are out I want you to run to the house on the front, the Aurors are there. If there is a muffiato it is only on this house, so alert the Aurors and get them to come here. Kingsley is there , so he'll recognize you." I said this in one intake of breath, which didn't go well with my recuperating magic, for a moment our protective bubble disappeared.
"Tonks, what did you do, you are still weak?" he asked concerned
"There is no time to explain now. Do you understand what I want you to do?"
"Yes." he said and laid down.
Once we were both in position, I let the door open with Greybacks next assault. His eyes had turned even redder and he was throwing foam from his mouth; he looked like I always pictured the monsters under my bed when I was a little girl, only this one is not fueled by imagination, but desire to kill. Apparently the potion had less effect on him than what I thought, because instead of waiting he attacked as soon as he saw me. Being ready for an attack this time I quickly ducked, rolled and send a curse his way.
Even when I didn't get his paws, it went for the truly dangerous part, his mouth, effectively closing it. Fuelled by fury and instinct to kill, he lounged forward again and this time when I cursed I trapped his front paws, which made him fall head first in front of my feet. Not my strongest rope yet, but if they hold until Sirius is off and the door is closed, I'll feel much more confident.
I signaled to Sirius to take a move, which he did quickly. I accompanied him to the door and then closed it just as his tail was leaving the threshold. I walked with as much stealth as I could towards the living room, wand at the ready. Slowly I crept to where he was. His eyes still have that possessed gleam on them and if its possible they have turned even redder. I looked at him and pointed my wand to his chest…
I could kill him right now and say that he had gotten loose and that I was protecting myself. I know deep down that it is the only way to stop him, only once he's dead will he really stop trying to bite and destroy the lives of so many people. I grip my wand tighter, is it really worth it to kill him? That would only make me a murderer like him and I reuse to fall that low. I lowered my wand.
Time stopped moving, it was silent for a moment and I actually stupidly thought that he was going to give in. And then, all hell broke loose. He sprang from his position in the floor and jumped on top of me, which threw my wand to one corner of the room, and me on the other at the side. He then just stood there on top of me not moving or anything, just trying to tell his prey that it was all over. He had broken all the ropes.
This is probably what he did to Lisa. A little part of my mind thought, he just stood there on top of the woman who he claimed to love and who actually loved him, and destroyed her life. He bared his big white and pointy fangs at me. This is it, this is the end… but only if I want it to, and I refuse to die at the hands of this monster. Resolving that this not the place where I wanted to die, I started to move with a renewed vigor, this got him mad and his claws came in contact with my face, barely missing my left eye.
I don't know how, but with one hand I punched his ribs so hard I got him of me. Not having time to get my wand I ran away from the room and up the stairs, with him hot on my trail. Once inside the master bedroom I turned around and faced him. He was standing in the doorway. And again he attacked me. This time I used wand less magic to throw at him any object that had a sharp point on it. He took cover with the bed and I stopped. Then, before I knew what was happening, he lunched himself from under it at me. I had just enough time to create a shield around me. He bounced off and hit the wall on the other side of the room I took this opportunity to run away again.
I ran down the stairs again. I could hear him breaking things upstairs as he was making his way to where I was. I looked like a crazy woman, searching for my wand and making a mess of everything, but I couldn't find it. As I passed a window I saw the Aurors outside fighting the werewolves that had been trying to get in, moments ago. I tired to get to the door, to at least help outside or get some help. But my advance was cut short when Greyback pounced on me, again.
I feel and hurt my wrist when I broke the fall, it was that or hit my head hard against the floor and loose my consciousness. Pain shot through my wrist up to my shoulder, it fogged my mind until I saw the fangs that were aiming for my hand. Not having much time to think about it twice I threw my body weight against the werewolf, that broke his balance and made him fall. I stood up and away from his foaming mouth as soon as I could and grabbed a vase with flowers. Greyback stood up once again and when he charged against me I side stepped him and dropped all the water on top of him…
Suddenly I could hear everything that was going on outside, the spell must have worn thin…
Greyback came at me once again, this time I let him throw me to the ground and think that he had won. He let out another howl, and it was all I could do not to cover my ears. Not sparing more time I grabbed his front paws and, using all the concentration one can muster when you know you may be a second away from death, I turned the water on his fur into ropes. This time knowing that hell would break loose, before he got out of them as a werewolf.
He collapsed on top of me and the last thing I remember before passing out was Kingsley opening the front door, he looked like hell.
AN:
This has been the hardest chapter to write so far, I might come back and rewrite any thing I find that no longer has any meaning. Commentaries, any kind, are greatly appreciated. Hope you liked it.
Phoenix Nephthys
