Chapter Sixteen
The next morning at breakfast a big brown barn owl flew into the
Great Hall. It landed in front of Hermione carrying a copy of the Daily
Prophet. Hermione paid the owl and opened the paper. She gasped and
read a small article on the front page.
"What is it Hermione?" Harry asked.
"It's starting Harry," Hermione said handing over the newspaper.
Harry read the small article on the front page.
PETER PETTIGREW FOUND ALIVE?!
Peter Pettigrew found near Salazar Town.
Pettigrew was to be dead by Sirius Black who betrayed the
Potters to Voldemort and were attacked at their house on Halloween night
of 1981.
Leaving only young Harry Potter to survive.
"I saw him get some food from Far Away Places that store over there."
said one witch.
Now he's at Hogwarts where the staff, Harry Potter and the Headmaster
Albus Dumbledore
are watching him carefully.
Now the Ministry of Magic is still looking for Black and try to get to
go to Hogwarts.
by Nikki Love
"Man your right Harry, they really did change the story, being
spotted and captured near a store, would probably go better I guess.
They'll have to write the truth, once Sirius and Wormtail have their
trials," Hermione said.
"Whose the witness that spotted Wormtail suppose to be?" Harry
asked Dumbledore.
"We just sent in an anonymous tip to the Daily Prophet. When they
came and questioned us, we admitted to Peter staying here to await a trial.
Speaking of which I believe that's the schedule for the trials coming,"
Dumbledore said starring openly at a spot behind them. Everyone turned to see a
screetch owl flying to them. The screetch owl was carrying two letters. The
owl swooped down to Harry and landed. Once Harry took the letters the owl flew off.
Harry looked at the letters and saw one addressed to himself and the other
to the headmaster.
"Sir, this one's for you," Harry said handing the letter over. He
then quickly opened his letter and read it outloud to everyone.
Dear Mr. Potter,
The trials for Peter Pettigrew will be held on August 7th. The
acting Minister of Magic has recommended that you and your friends be there
as witnesses. The trial will be held in the Merlin Justice Hall at 10 A.M.
The Headmaster Albus Dumbledore shall bring you to the Hall on the morning of
the trial. Everything shall proceed from there.
Meavelyn McDouie and Charles Diggory
Suprieme Counslers
"Mr. Diggory is judging the trial?" Harry asked Dumbledore after he
read the name.
"Apparently, Mr. Diggory got interested when he found out you were
involved with this, he'll probably be judging Sirius' and Cornelius' trial
as well," Dumbledore explained.
"Does yours say when Dirius will get his trial, I want to be ready to
defend him, when it's time," Harry said. "In fact is there anyway to get a
hold of the paperwork from the scene on the street and get ahold of Sirius's
old wand?" Harry asked.
"No, we are making sure not to even speak of Sirius, until Peter says
anything on the stand. And yes, I shall write to Arthur soon. The whole Minisry
of Magic is under investigation, because of Cornelius. Now would be a good time
before some things go missing," Dumbledore said.
"So we have a week until Wormtail's trial?" Ron asked.
"That's correct, Mr. Weasley," Dumbledore said.
"How are you going to transport Wormtail to the trial?" Hermione asked.
"He'll be going in his rat form, transfigured by Professor McGonagal and
put in a charmed cage provided by Professor Flitwick to keep animagus formed in
their animal form. I myself
will carry the cage to the trial. I'll tell you this, the trials over Peter and
Sirius should only take a few hours each. However Cornelius will be taking
probably a few months. Right now Arthur is looking into everything Cornelius has
done in the ministry. Starting from his term as minister, to back when he started
work in the owl room. So his whole work history is under investigation. Sounds
like they'll first try him with assault of a student, leading to him denying
responsibilites as Minister, to boot him out of office. So we will be in the
process of getting a new minister," Dumbledore explained.
"Sir, how can we be sure a better or worse person than Fudge will get the
job. Is the process the same as the Parlament?" Harry asked.
(Okay I did look up the British Parliament in the encyclopedia, however it
didn't explain how the minister is picked so I'm making this up. No offence
to any politicians in Britain).
"Well, I'm not clear on today's muggle government, but last I understood
we are, though with slight differences. There will be campaign over two people
running for minister whoever gets the most votes gets the position," Dumbledore
said.
"How will you be sure a supporter of Voldemorts will win or not? Or even
run?" Harry asked.
"Well, automatically we have one spot taken and it's failed by the acting
minister if he so agrees," Dumbledore said smiling to Ron who sat up.
"Your saying my dad is running for minister?" Ron asked his mouth hanging
open.
"Yes, that's correct Mr. Weasley." Dumbledore said.
"Oh wow, this is amazing, why didn't he tell me that," Ron asked.
"He wanted to wait until things were underway, he spoke to your mother
and your siblings last night, he wanted theris and your blessings he wanted me
to tell you this morning, then he'll be by around noon to speak with you
personally." Dumbledore said.
"Well I'm proud of Mr. Weasley, but whose the other candidate going to
be?" Harry asked.
"Your certainly full of questions about politics, Potter," Snape commented.
"Correct, sir, but how else am I suspose to learn, besides I have a say
in what goes on in my government life. Especially when it could meant the
differance between the ruling of terony and compression and the freedom we're
used to," Harry said.
"You know what terony and compression is Mr. Potter?" McGonagall asked
shocked, all the professors and adults were looking at Harry shocked.
Harry and Hermione shared a quick glance.
"Yes Professor McGonagal, we first learn of it in fairy tales, legends, and
hero stories of some form or another. Though they never teach the correct name of
the cruelty, they leave a lasting impression on the mind of kids. Sometimes it
doesn't set in at all until someone points it out to us, or if we get to thinking
about it ourselves. Plus the meanest rulers in history are only famous because of
the cruelty they placed on their people. Like Prince John, The Hon, even Adolf
Hitler and todays rulers of the middle east who torture their people in corruption.
Also it's all mainly in this book we are reading." Harry explained pulling out his
black book from his pocket then paused for a second and looked to Hermione.
"That's what you understanding from, the Mark of Zorro, right how Zorro is
fighting against the cruel and greedy commandonte?" Harry asked.
"I don't know yet, I just read the preface to chapter 3, where Zorro has his
first fight with in Pueblo de la Los Angeles with Sergeant Gonzales, but it does
sound like it will be, if it's anything like the tv show?" Hermione said.
"Mark of Zorro what is that about?" McGonagal asked.
"It's a muggle book that has a man disquised in black and a mask, he's
fighting against a group of men ruling the old California with terony. He goes by
the name of Zorro, which means Fox in spanish, the creature of the night. Anyway
that's the gist of it," Harry explained.
"A muggle book you say, sounds interesting," Dumbledore said.
"It must be if Harry is carrying it in his cloak's pocket," Ron spoke up
causing everyone at the table to laugh.
"May I see the book, Potter?" Snape asked holding out his hand. Apparently
he was the only one not laughing, or at least snickering like Hermione and
McGonagal were doing. Everyone quieted down as Harry passed the book to Snape
who read the preview and the clip inside the cover. Then Snape snorted once.
"Figures you would read something with a damsel in distress, Potter," Snape said
as he handed the book around to everyone at the table to see.
"Of course sir, whats a hero without a damsel or at least a himt of romance
involved? It's a unwritten rule in the muggle world where the hero always gets the
girl. Especially in the Western and Early American stories." Harry said calmly.
"Back to your question Harry, we already have another person who will run.
And I assure you that he is trustworthy." Dumbledore exlained then he looked at
the book that was handed to him, reading the preview and the clip. "Very
interesting, looks like we'll be needing a new section in the library, for muggle
authors."
Both Hermione and Harry perked up, Hermioone of course was almost jumping up
and down in her chair. Harry however just sat up straighter.
"For real sir?" Hermione asked excitedly.
"Seems only fittng that we do, after all we have fiction and non-fiction books
written by wizards and witches. We should have muggle literature as well," Dumbledore
explained.
Suddenly Hermione's face went bright as if she thought of something and
indeed she did. "Sir have you ever thought of starting a reading club?"
AN: I didn't write the newspaper article a wonderful and helpful author by
the name of Vella wrote the original
and we formed it to work with the story. So please send a thank you review to her
as well. Thanks a bunch to Vella and to you people reviewing. If your just reading
I hope your enjoying it.
Review please!!!
Chapter Seventeen
Several days later everybody had gotten up early and was eating beakfast early.
They were going to Peters trial today. Sirius was wanting to go, but Dumbledore didn't
want him captured or taken into custody until Peter had his trial. He wanted to wait
until the court had Peter's word. So Sirius was sulking in his food slightly.
"We'll tell you everything Sirius and we won't hold out on you," Harry promised
and Ron and Hermione agreed.
"Will I need to go?" Dudley asked.
"Yes, Dudley, your a witness to Peter being in the school and attacking you,"
Harry said.
"But what if I mess up on the facts?" Dudley said.
"Just tell the truth, Dudley, no one can expect more than that?" Harry said
trying to calm him. "Besides Wormtail will be given Veritsium Potion. Which is a
truth potion, forcing him to speak nothing but the truth. They'll give you some to
in fact all of us will be given some when we are questioned. We probably will go
first, if it's anything like muggle trial, wait hold on-." Harry turned to Dumbledore
and asked. "Sir would they need to us up if he's under the truth potion?"
"No not usaully, in fact they'll only give you a truth potion if your story
doesn't match up with the person in custody. And they'll only ask you questions if
they need to start clearing things up." Dumbledore said.
"Right, anyway sounds like they may not call on you Dudley, if they do just
speak the truth," Harry said.
"I still don't see why your being nice to him, Harry," Ron said glaring at
Dudley. Since Ron saw Harry talking civilly with his wicked cousin who used to bully
Harry with fist and punches. This is just a guess from the scars all over Harry that
Ron has seen whenever Harry had his shirt off. (an no Ron is not gay in this story
and neither is Harry, I'm not against it but I don't like reading those things, no
offense to anyone) Ron had downright made his feelings known on the matter that he
wasn't going to forgive Dudley anytime soon.
"Ron! Thou shall not hold false witness against thy neightbor," Hermione
exclaimed at Ron and then she continued. "It no business of yours what how Harry and
his cousin get along."
"It does when the monster has left scars and bruises all over my best friend's
chest and back, I've seen every year when we got here. Harry always told me he fell or
was clumsy, at first I believed him then after the first week when he never tripped,
feel or ran into things I knew it was an excuse. Later on Harry joked about his
relatives temper, that's when I knew where they came from...Hermione you never have to
see those marks, but I see them all the time. Everyyear it got worse and his ribs stuck
out more. Look at this guy, he not only eats his share of food he always ate Harry's
share as well. All the meat that should be on Harry is on him, why do you think that
is?" Ron asked.
"Ron it is no concern of yours how my cousin and I get along now. But your
right a month ago you had a right in sticking up for me and hating Dudley. Until he
apologised and I accepted, since then he hasn't raised a hand on me or even raised
his voice. So you no longer have a right to look down at my cousin. Just like I
have no right to look down at any of your siblings, not that I do anyway. So leave
him alone, if need be ignore him and don't talk to him or about him anywhere around
him or me. This is the last time we are having this discussion. So let it sink in.
The relationship between my cousin and myself is no longer your concern." Harry said
then he turned Hermione when Ron crossed his arms and his ears turned slightly red.
"Amen," Hermione said.
"I didn't know you were religous, Hermione?" Harry said.
"I went to a Catholic school before Hogwarts, besides the Bible does have
really good everyday lessons in it, but I don't really believe in alot of things
written in it." Hermione said. (by the way if anyone is strongly religous, I
apoligize for this next part, these are my beliefs and I don't want to be flamed
for it. I don't intend to insult anybody, it's just my logical mind putting in a
discussion between Harry and Hermione, one that Hermione would think about more
than Harry. I see Hermione being able to hold these beliefs because of her
logicalness to. And it is not ment to turn anyoneaway from the Bible..)
"What do you mean by that, what don't you believe in the Bible?" Harry asked.
"If you read the bible you'd realize that everything is written from the mans
point of view and their beliefs at the time it was written. Like how women are the
property of the man, only on this earth to bear him fruit, which of course means
sons. It's just...I don't know." Hermione said slightly panicing when she couldn't
think of the right words to say.
"In other words you believe in God and the Holy family, and the main stories
of Noah and Moses and Jesus. but don't believe everything in the Bible was written
fairly." Harry said.
"Yes exactly, have you read the Bible, Harry?" Hermione asked.
"I tried once I got to Moses getting down to the bottom of the mountain seeing
all the free slaves already commiting sins from the ten commandments he had recieved.
I was eight and Aunt Petunia caught me reading her grandmas Bible, and told me to
'keep my Pagan hands off her Bible', never knew what a Pagan was at the time. But most
of the stories were talked about in school in a way. So I picked up the main stories."
Harry said.
"So you knew the phrase from the bible from the latin words?" Hermione asked.
"Of course, the Catholic mass and Bibles used to be only in Latin all over the
world so that all Catholics could understand each other. Much like the Jews with
Hebrew. However, the translation of the Holy Bible was put in English, French,
Spanish, and many other translations so that all the common people could begin
to understand what the Bible said. Since they couldn't afford to have
education." Harry said.
"Wow, how'd you know that, they never talk about where the Catholic religon
comes from, they only spoke of the Bible. Where did you get this information?"
Hermione asked.
"I did a project for school once, the translation wasn't easy. In fact the
first prist who tried to translate the Bible for the everyday common people was
assassinated because the King wanted to keep control over the peaseants using the
Bible. I can't remember what country it was. I think it was either England or
France. Mostly France though, I want to say it was at Notre Dame when the priest
was in the middle of performing a mass, but I'm not sure." Harry said.
"Well either way that was very educationd, where did you find all this
stuff if you were locked in your room half the time?" Dudley asked.
"Why couldn't you ever find me during recess, Dudley, I was hardly ever
outside unless, I was forced out by the teachers." Harry said.
"I don't know where were you?" Dudley asked.
"I was in the school library learning to read from the librarian, after all
I got no help at Privet Drive. Then I went on and started to read anything and
everything at that library." Harry said.
"What about the public library, have you ever been in there, I don't remember
the library have to many books above the child reading level?" Dudley asked.
"Have you ever been to the school library?" Harry asked.
"Just a couple times when we went to the library for some class project."
Dudley said.
"Well the school also had internet connection and an encyclopedia. Plus you
can arrange for the school library to have books from the public library be
transferred to the school library. I have never been to the public library. They
sent books I wanted to read to the school library and the librarian would even ask
for other books I would like." Harry said.
"Why did you read that much though. You defiantly never brought the books home,
I riped up your homework enough to know." Dudley said
"That's why I liked doing my Hogwarts homework, you were to afraid to touch
anything for or from this place, anyway I only read the books at the library because
if I brought it to Privet Drive. Your parents would of called me a theif and ripped
the book up and made me pay for it by doing some work at the library. Which I wanted
to spend time reading not working." Harry said.
Dumbledore then spoke up and said that they should be leaving for the trial.
Once they had all gone outside they saw a carriage waiting for them. So
Harry, Hermione, Ron, Dudley, and Dumbledore got in.
"Sir is this carriage taking a us to the Ministry?" Hermione asked wide-eyed.
"Indeed well be traveling underground and should be there in about two hours."
Dumbledore said his eyes twinkling.
"Professor where is Wormtail?" Harry asked.
"Right here," Dumbledore said pulling a round out a glass ball the size of a
softball and a small rat the size of a walnut inside the ball. They all saw the
tiny rat trying to claw against the glass. "He won't be able to get out very easily."
please don't flame me for that religon stuff up there, but you are welcome to
comment about it on a review as long as you post you opinion on the story itself
as well. If you don't and the review flames me about my
beliefs then I may delete your review..
However please review if you plan to be honest and nice about it. I like to read
people's opinions on more things than
just reviews. In fact if anyone wants to chat about anything worth while from the
story or even something you
thought of about this story leave a review, oh heck or anything all together go ahead.
I'll even try to get back to you.
Wormtail's Trial
Chapter Eighteen
About two hours later the carriage stopped in front of a huge stone building
that stood just off the coast of the Atlantic. Harry looked around once he got out
and saw that the Ministry is in the middle of the country with grassy plains all
around and a old muggle lighthouse in the distance.
"Oh my it's beautiful," Hermione said looking toward the ocean.
"Indeed it is, it always takes my breath away," Dumbledore said.
"Are we still in Scotland?" Hermione asked.
"Indeed we are Ms. Granger, unfortunately we aren't here to site see, if
you'll please follow me," Dumbledore said as they headed for the huge mahogony
wooden doors. As they stepped up to the door they saw a gargoyle with a long collar
around it's neck being used as a door handle. Dumbledore then stopped in front of
the stone gargoyle face, everyone watched as it came to life.
"Name and business you seek here?" the gargoyle said.
"Albus Dumbledore here with Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ronald Weasley and
Dudley Dursley for the trial of Peter Pettigrew," Dumbledore spoke up.
"Proceed go to Merlin's Justice Hall on B5 to courtroom #1 the trial is setting
up now," the gargoyle said and opened up the doors for them to enter. The first thing
they saw was a grand lobby that had the ceiling covered with paintings of many wizards
and witches. Harry was guessing they were of previous Ministers. They all followed
Dumbledore through a door that lead to room completely filled with ropes hanging on
the walls. With a place written on a board on each rope. Dumbledore directed each of
them to one in the far corner. Above the rope it said 'Merlin's Justice Hall.'
"One at a time, grab this rope here. It'll be taking you to the Justice Hall,
Remus will be waiting for you there," Dumbledore explained.
So one by one, they grabbed the rope. First Hermione then Ron then Dudley who
looked extremly worried after watching the other two disappear. Then Harry, once he
grabbed the rope he felt sort of weightless and then a tickling as he found himself
with the group again. Realizing he was still clutching the rope he quickly let go and
turned to Remus.
"What was that?" Harry asked.
"A directory rope, a visitor can only gain access to places in the ministry
by inventation. If tried to grab any other rope, you'd be sent back to the
gargoyle," Remus explained just as Dumbledore appeared.
"So it's a form of security." Hermione commented mostly.
"Correct Ms. Granger," Dumbledore said.
Harry looked around at the oval Justice Hall and saw a Statue of Merlin in
the center of the oval with doors all around.
Dumbledore went to the door the closest on the their right. On the door it
read Courtroom I. When they walked in Harry found a short oval courtroom. With a
high curved table with two chairs in the center slightly higher than the rest. In
the center of the courtroom was a wooden chair that held magical restraints. Harry
remember seeing one like this in Dumbledore's pensieve. Harry also saw some church
like benches in place on the sides of the courtroom. Harry saw one news reporter
from the Daily Prophet and one photographer.
Dumbledore pointed out the benches where they were going to sit. While Remus
took the group to the benches Dumbledore went up to the chair and pulled Wormtail
out of the cage. Dumbledore transfigured him into Peter and magically bound him to
the chair, until only his hand head could move. While Dumbledore was doing so,the
reporter was writing away with her quill and the photographer was clicking away.
Just as Dumbledore sat back the council stepped into the courtroom and two
people headed for the high seats in the middle. Amos Diggory and a woman who, Harry
guessed, was Meavelyn McDouie sat next to him. There also five other people sitting
around them that seemed to have big titles to their names. Harry's first impression
of the group of people is that they were fair, but firm in their decisions. He also
saw that Amos Diggory had noticed he was there but hadn't looked at him. Soon after
everyone was settled Mr. Diggory spoke.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we shall begin momentarily, Jestin please go ahead and
give Mr. Pettigrew the Veritaserium we'll let it set in until Arthur Weasley arrives.
"Yes, sir," Jestin said as he took a bottle of the truth potion from a locked
cabinet on his left. He then walked over and made Wormtail take three drops on the
bottom of his tongue. They all watched as his eyes became slightly glazed and his
scared expression become relaxed and limp.
They all sat in silence for several minutes until the door opened and in
walked Arthur Weasley. Arthur quickly walked over and sat down next to Harry who sat
next to Ron and then Hermione. Then Dumbledore, Remus, and Dudley sat behind them.
"Carry on Amos," Arthur said.
"Thank you, Arthur," Amos said as he nodded to Arthur then he turned to the
woman on the far right side of the table.
"Elaina, is the Quote Quill ready?" Amos asked. (Notice I didn't say Quick,
this Quill only writes what people say).
"Indeed, sir, begin anytime," she said.
"Right, you ready Meave?"
"Completely Amos, now enough of the opening credits, let's begin." Meave said
getting more comfortable in her chair.
"State your name for the record,"Amos told Peter.
"Peter-Judas-Pettigrew," Peter stated with no reaction, Harry however turned a
sharp glance at Hermione, who glanced back. Ron looked between them and their glances.
"What is it?" Ron asked.
"Peters' middle name is Judas," Harry said "fits doesn't it."
"How's that?" Ron asked.
"Do you know the Bible stories Ron?" Hermione asked.
"Of course who doesn't." Ron asked.
"Judas was the apostle who betrayed Jesus to the Romans," Harry explained.
"Oh right, gotcha." Ron said then he turned back to the trial.
"As of right now Mr. Pettigrew you have a clean slate, however everything you
confess today, shall determine your fate. Wheather it'd be a fine, prisonment,
dementors kiss, or sometimes in special cases punishments decided by the court based
on the wrong doing. If you are found innocent you shall you shall be set free, do
you understand these conditions?" Amos asked.
"Yes," Peter said
"Alright then, Mr Pettigrew on October 31, 1981. Many witnesses claimed to see
you be killed by one Sirius Black. Yet somehow your sitting here talking to us. Could
you explain to us how you are still alive. I'm also told by Albus Dumbledore that it
is a long story, and that several events lead up to that night, as well as after.
Start from the beginning then finish up when you were spotted and taken to Hogwarts a
couple weeks ago," Meave said.
"Back when my friends and myself were in school at Hogwarts-"
"Who were these friends, now?" Meave asked.
"Remus Lupin, Sirius Black, and James Potter," Peter said
"Alright, continue please," Meave said making sure Elaina got the names.
"During our second year we were reckonizing a pattern with Remus once a month he
would disappear for three days and come back very thin and sickly looking. We soon
realized that Remus was a werewolf," there were a gasp from the high table. "we all
decided to keep him company when Remus tranforms each month. In doing so Sirius, James
and I became an unregistered animagus. James was a stag, Sirius is a dog and I am a
rat-," Amos interrupted this time.
"Kristy, put down an unregister animagus on the list of charges. Continue Mr.
Pettigrew," Amos said.
"Several years later, James and Lily with their son Harry went into hiding from
You-Know-Who. James was needing a secretkeeper for the Fidelius Charm. Professor
Dumbledore had offered, but James originally wanted Sirius Black-," Peter was
interrupted again.
"What do you mean originally, wasn't Sirius Black their secretkeeper and
betrayed the Potters to You-Know-Who that's what Fudge said for years?" Meave asked
confused.
"That's what Fudge said isn't it, we'd better listen to this." Amos said calmly
"James did want Sirius Black, but Sirius refused at the last minute. James and
Sirius were best friends and Sirius is Harry's godfather and everyone knew that. Even
You-Know-Who. So Sirius told James to use me as secretkeeper and in turn I would go
into hiding and Sirius would be secretkeeper for me." Peter was stopped again.
"Let me make sure we're understanding this Mr. Pettigrew. YOU were the Potters
secretkeeper?" Amos asked shocked.
"Yes," Peter said.
"You betrayed the Potters to You-Know-Who? How did you do that, Sirius was the
spy as I heard?" Meave said.
"No I was the spy, I had been for two years at the time," Peter said.
"As a death eater?" Amos asked.
"Yes in the top circle," Peter said and all the room was speechless.
There was dead silence for several minutes.
"Kristy, please put down two murders of the 2nd degree for James and Lily
Potter, one attempt of murderof the 2nd degree for Harry Potter. And also charge for
being a death eater." Amos finally spoke up. Harry was shocked of the charge set for
himself and he stared open mouthed, without blinking, at Mr. Diggory until Mr. Weasley
patted him lightly on the back. "You are a human being too Harry." Ron said next to him.
"Continue, Mr. Pettigrew, what happened next?" Amos asked.
"After You-Know-Who killed the Potters, and disappeared I ran into the muggle
world hiding. Sirius track me down in his dog form and confronted me. When he
confronted me I made a scene by hollering 'James and Lily, Sirius, how could you?' I
had my wand behind my back. He grabbed me then I put a tickling spell on him. I
quickly cut off my finger and blew up the street then ran down a sewer drain in my
animagus form. I soon showed myself as a rat to a wizard family who took me in for
almost twelve years-,"
"Did this family know who you were?" Meave asked.
"No, they didn't," Peter said.
"What was their name?" Amos asked.
"Weasley, I was passed down the sons for each one the entered Hogwarts. Ron
Weasley was my last owner." Peter said.
"Ron Weasley? Arthur is this one Ron?" Amos asked jesturing to Ron.
"Yes, Amos," Arthur said looking stunned.
"Ron can you stand please," Meave said.
"Yes, ma'am," Ron said standing up.
"Ron did you know about Mr. Pettigrew being your rat?" Amos asked.
"No, not until 3rd year when Professor Lupin and Sirius had forced Peter to show
himself and confess. Harry and Hermione were also there. The two were able to reckonize
him from a missing toe, and of course Sirius could smell him in my pocket. When Peter
managed to escape in his rat form Sirius went after him as a dog. I had passed out
by that point from a broken leg. Harry and Hermione saw the rest," Ron said pulling
Harry up to his feet.
"Er right, anyway there were dementors on the school grounds who attacked
Sirius. Hermione and I went to try and help protect Sirius from the dementors. I
casted a Patronus to scare them away. Just before I passed out, one of the
dementors had tried to kiss me and Hermione had already passed out. We woke up
in the hospital wing with Dumbledore, Snape, and Fudge there. We tried to explain
that Sirius was innocent, but Fudge didn't believe us. He was saying we had been
given a memory charm from Sirius. So he refused to give Sirius a retrial since we
didn't have Peter" Harry said.
"I sense there is more there Harry, but since this isn't Black's trial yet
we won't question you about Black yet. We'll wait for his trial." Amos said looking
closely at Harry.
"That true sir, I've only said the actions of Peter and what he has caused
that night, I'm willing to tell what happened for Sirius but not until his trial as
well," Harry said.
"Alright go ahead and sit down you two," Amos said as both Harry and Ron
took their seats.
"Wait Amos, Harry said he could perform a Patronus, he's a boy there is no
way he can-" but Meave was cut off.
"Actually, he can Meave, he performed one beautifully in the third task in
the Triwizard Tournament, saw him myself," Amos said. "Kristy put a charge against
avoiding arrest."
"Do continue, Mr. Pettigrew I must say you are running out of use of your
last name." Meave said.
(Okay I change what wormtail called Voldemort for dramatic affect. I did
this on purpose)
"I ran off to find my master, I nursed his spirit back to heath. Then I went
and helped my master set up the Triwizard Tournament as a trap to bring Harry Potter
to my master. We had an inside source-," Peter was interrupted.
"Yes, yes Dumbledore told me about him I already gave everyone a copy of what
Barty Crouch said, please continue," Amos said slightly angry.
"We started planning my master back to his body, the night of the third task
the inside source turned the cup into a portkey to bring Harry potter to the
graveyard where my masters father is buried. When the key transported Harry to us,
another champion was clutching the cup as well. My master told me to 'kill the spare'
so I killed the other boy and tied Harry up to a headstone marked for my masters
father. I performed a ritual using the bone of the father, the blood of an enemy
using Harry's, and flesh given freely by a servant," Peter raised his stumped hand.
"I brought him back and he dualed with Harry who manage to escape clutching the
dead boy and the cup out of there." Peter said.
Harry saw Mr. Diggory go red with anger and speak through clenched teeth.
"Kristy add murder to the 1st degree of a wizard and of twelve muggles."
"Unless there is anything else after that, how did you get captured?" Meave said.
"I was in Hogwarts and I cornered Harry's cousin. I was stunned and taken
to Dumbledore by Harry and Padfoot," Peter said.
Both Amos and Meave looked confused, though Amos looked like he wanted to
strangle Wormtail.
"Albus who is Padfoot?" Meave asked.
"He is a member of the order that was walking with Harry to find his cousin."
Dumbledore said.
"Kristy please add trespassing onto school grounds to the list," Meave said.
"then read all the charges." Meave said.
"Yes ma'am, one count of unregistered animagus
two counts of murder to the 2nd degree for James and Lily Potter
one count of attempt of murder to the 2nd degree for Harry Potter
one count of being a death eater
one count of murder to the 1st degree of Cedric Diggory a wizard
twelve counts of murder to the 1st degree of muggles
one count of trespassing on school grounds
"All this those who find Peter quilty?" Meave said then and everyone raised
their hands.
"Right we shall continue with a sentence in a few minutes. Albus may we have
your opinion on this?" Amos asked Dumbledore.
"Certainly Amos," Dumbledore said getting up and following the group to another
room.
"I think we all agreethat Peter should be sentence to death or dementors kiss,"
Amos said then continued after everyone had nodded then he continued. "However I do
see a slight problem with that."
"How's that Amos?" Meave asked.
"Because Peter is in the inner circle of Voldemorts followers. Peter may have
information we could use against him. I believe the light side could benefit on
making him a prisoner of war, but there is no way of getting answer from him if he's
dead," Amos said.
"I see what your saying Amos, and it's a good idea, but what should we do with
him we can't send him to Azghaban it could kill him in a matter of weeks, where would
we put him. Where we could keep an eye on him and torture him enough were he won't
go insane?" Meave asked.
"If you might Amos I have an idea on what you can do," Dumbledore spoke up.
For several minutes there was complete silence in the courtroom where only a
quill from the reporters hand was scratching furiously across a pad of parchment to
catch up.
Arthur turned to the teenagers and asked what has been nagging on his mind
during the trial.
"Were you saying that Peter was actually Scabbers, you said that Scabbers ran
off. You could've told your mother and I the truth Ron. We would've believe you
three." Mr. Weasley said looking slightly hurt.
"I'm sorry dad, I promise to tell the family the whole story, some of it we
have to wait for Sirius's trial, only one adult listened to us that night. Everyone
else called us delusional, besides I didn't want you defending us from Fudge and
getting fired." Ron said going slightly red and shifting slightly.
"Your right, Ron I would've done that. If Fudge would've fired me, I'd have
quit, then head straight for the papers I have a lot of things to use as blackmail
agaisnt him. Besides somethings are worth getting fighting and losing a job over.
You yourself have done it on several occassions. You risked expulsion even life
itself several times doing what you know is right. One was by holding a professor
hostage to save your Ginny, that is what Molly and I saw. If Dumbledore had expelled
you from school. Molly and I would've been even more in debt to you three. So never
back down Ron and always come to us when the world doesn't believe you. That includes
the two of you as well. I'll agree to do the same," Arthur said.
"Let's listen to him guys, he knows what he's saying and Dumbledore couldn't of
said it better," Harry said.
"I promise Dad," Ron said putting his hand out to his dad who took it and held
on as a pact. Without letting go Arthur looked to Harry and Hermione.
"I was including my two adopted by heart children as well," Arthur said smiling.
Both Harry and Hermione grinned proudly. Harry stuck his hand on top of Arthurs and
Rons that was right in front of him. Hermione got up and walked in to be across from
Harry and put her hand on top of Harrys. Then Ron took his other hand and placed it on
Hermione's and sealed the pact.
"Right, I shall bring the family the night after Sirius's trial and you can tell
us the whole story then." Arthur said pulling his hand away just as the door opened
letting Dumbledore and the trial heads back in. Harry, Ron and Hermione dropped their
hands and Hermione sat back down as Dumbledore came back over. Once the court had
all sat down Amos spoke up.
"The trial head had decided, Peter Judas Pettigrew you have been sentenced to
death. However due to special circumstances you do not have a fixed sentenced date.
However once Voldemort is destroyed, you shall be given the choice of three different
ways to die. Since you have killed more muggles than wizard, you shall be executed
by hanging, firing squad, or beheading. The reason you have no sentence date is so
we can gain information from you to help defeat Voldemort. If you do help enough to
eliminate Voldemort we shall change your sentence to life in prison." Amos said then
paused and said one last thing. "And when you die Pettigrew, rot in hell."
To be continued....
I know your happy. I'm now back on scheduel and will be updating now that I know what
I'm going to do... thank you for waiting patiently and I hope you enjoy what I have decided to
have this story will end up being.
Many thanks to my fellow writers and fans who left a review and sent me comments when
I needed help..
Nik
Chapter Seventeen
Harry smiled freely and stood up while watching Peter shift nervously. He doubted
Wormtail knew anything that Voldemort had planned. If there was one thing Voldemort was
good at, it was his intelligence. Harry knew that Voldemort wouldn't tell any of his followers
what he had planned. Especially if he didn't trust them to not turn their backs on him if given
the chance. Harry knew that Voldemort would only use the need-to-know bases strategy for
his followers. The only thing Voldemort would gloat about, as he himself witnessed, would
be things that already came to pass and can't be changed.
Harry was brought out of his thoughts when Hermione came in front of him and Ron
and hugged them both at once, tightly around their necks with one arm each. Harry couldn't
breathe and he saw Ron turn red from the lack of oxygen too.
"Guys, it's really happening, Snuffles will be free in a matter of days! We'll have to
celebrate, we'll need to do something special. Not a party we've had several these past few
weeks. We should -," Hermione stopped when she felt Harry tapping her shoulder. She
backed a step and asked. "What?" just now seeing his red face.
"A-i-r," Harry gasped out.
"Oh, sorry guys," Hermione said blushing and immediatly letting go.
"When-did-a-hug-become-deadly?" Ron asked managing to gasp it all out. Harry took
several deep breaths before answereing.
"First time-for everything, but-don't want to start-a new cause of death-stranglation by
a-happy hugging hysterical girl-forgeting her strength." Harry said rubbing his throat.
"That was uncalled for," Hermione said slightly grinning.
"Right back at you," Ron said then he focused his eyes past Hermione. Harry and
Hermione looked into the direction Ron was looking and saw Amos Diggory heading their way.
"Hello Harry, the court will be putting an article in the Daily Prophet the day after
tomorrow. Is there anyway you can make sure Sirius Black get's ahold of it. It'll give him
a place and time to meet up with court officals safetly whom Dumbledore and myself
trust," Amos Diggory said.
"Excuse me sir, why won't it be in tomorrows edition?' Ron asked slightly confused.
"They will be covering this trial and of course-- Voldemorts being returned, speaking
of which, the reporter wants to get your view point of his return, Harry. I told them only if you
were willing to explain what happened." Mr Diggory said.
"Only after I read what they wright for the trials, and they let me read a rough draft of
the interview and no quick quote quills allowed." Harry said.
Amos Diggory smiled in good humor. "Right, I shall let the reporters know." Just as
Amos Diggory went to inform the reporter, Harry spoke up again. "Oh and Mr. DIggory, no
photographers allowed either."
Oxxxxxx)=====Z====================== borrowed with permission from Serpensortia
now known as AngieAstravic I just took off Godric Gryffindor and put a Z in to stand for Zorro.
(but your smart hopefully you already figured it out.
Once they got back to Hogwarts, Sirius was waiting for them in the entrance hall.
"Well come on, what happened?" Sirius asked.
"Wormtail's quilty charged with
one count of unregistered animagus
two counts of 2nd degree murder of wizards James and Lily Potter
one count of attempted 2nd degree murder of wizard of H- er myself
one count of first degree murder of wizard Cedric Diggory
twelve counts of first degree muggle murder
one count for being death eater
one count of trespassing on school grounds
Originally given sentence of death, however the council thinks he knows some of
Voldemorts plans. Which I doubt... so if he gives enough valueable information for the war,
they will change the sentence to life in prison. However judging from his body language, and
from what I know of Voldemort, Wormtail wouldn't know his plans," Harry said.
"What makes you think that, Harry?" Dumbledore asked. Harry, seeing the twinkle in
Dumbledores eyes, could tell the Dumbledore already knew what he was talking about, but
was letting him use his brain... again.
"I may not know him very well, but everytime I saw him, he gloated so excitedly and
happily, that they had to be the only time he bragged about his plans. He only talked about
his full course of plans after it all happens. He'll be running at a need-to-know attitude with
his followers. Especially now that he knows he can't trust them to follow him loyally. He only
speaks when they will all see the power and the fear he can dish out. He tested the death
eaters last year when he got their marks showing again. He wanted to see who was still loyal,
he wasn't happy when no one came until they were summoned. So he'll give one death eater
a job scare them enough so that they won't share their job with each other or anybodyelse.
So even if Voldemort did tell Wormtail his plans, and if Wormtail even tells us anything to use
against him. Voldemort will have him killed, no matter what he does he's going to die, and
Wormtail knows it," Harry explained then he shifted slightly at the looks he was getting. 'You'd
think they'd be used to this by now,' he thought.
"What?"
"Harry, you already know how to read You-Know-Who's mind after meeting him three
times you can remember... your using strategy, how is it you suck so much at chess?" Ron
asked bewildered.
"Because I suck at chess, besides chess is different from real life. While a person
thinks about one chess game for only an hour or so. I've spent hours, days, and weeks thinking
about the times I've meet the guy. And now that I can attach and detach from those memories I
can look closely at each line and decipher his brain, with meaning, the way he thinks, and how
he sees himself and others," Harry said.
"Harry, do you realize your profiling him? Sir, he's not trained in doing such a thing, some
of the best profilers have gone mad thinking like the criminals they are chasing. I'm not doubting
Harry, but could this have surver consequences on his brain?" Hermione asked.
"Not with what your thinking, it's only if you begin understanding and agreeing with what
they think, Harry here is just reading his language, and deeper into his vocal language. Coming
up with conclusions that just happen to be right. For instance you three don't get along well with
Draco Malfoy if I'm correct, Ron tell me what is Draco's favorite food?" Dumbledore asked.
"Er,.. anything with potatos, but he goes after mash potatos the most," Ron said.
"Correct, Hermione what is Harry's favorite breadfast food?" Dumbledore asked. Hermione
looked to Harry a few seconds before answering
"-----oatmeal? I think." Hermione said.
"Actually, it's toast." Dumbledore said.
"Really?" Hermione asked Harry shocked.
"Yes," Harry said slightly laughing.
"You see Hermione, the proof is there that you read your enemies more than your friends.
It's a natural and healthy habit, it'll help keep your eyes on others who'd do you or your friends
harm," Dumbledore said.
"Keep you friends close and your enemies closer," Ron said.
"Never really got that till now," Harry admitted.
"Okay, back to me, when is my trial?" Sirius asked.
"There will be a article in the paper after tomorrow, for you Sirius, it'll tell you a time and
place to meet the court counsil whom Dumbledore and Judge Diggory trust," Remus explained.
"Alright everyone let's get on with today's work, Harry how much farther have you gone
with Dudley?" Dumbledore asked.
"He's done real well, sir, he's now reading long worded picture books. He'll probably need
to start on simple chapter books soon, he should start working with Remus actually. Since he'll
need to get used to Remus's teaching style," Harry said. "Besides there's a week and a half left
before school starts and I won't be able to help him as much then."
"That's a good idea, have him read one whole chapter book then I'll start carrying on with
reading comprehension and other basic stuff. I've already written down a non-grade test for
reading, math, history, and science, muggle of course. I'll be making a schedule from that," Remus
said. "Harry you mind if we work on that today?"
"No that's fine," Harry said.
"You two are also needing to go to get your things from Diagon Alley you should go before
Sirius trial is made public, I'll send Snape to take you tomorrow. He's needing to order some potion
ingrediants anyway." Dumbledore said to Ron and Hermione.
The two Gryffindors shared looks. "Harry can come too, can't he?" Ron asked.
"Of course he'll go, bringing Dudley with him as well," Harry said slightly annoyed.
"That's fine," Dumbledore said. "just watch yourselves," then Dumbledore walked off toward
his office.
"Why are you bringing Dudley?" Ron asked.
"Because he'll need to get some simple reading books, Hogwarts library doesn't have any
he'll understand," Harry said.
"You realize that Hermione and I don't like him much don't you," Ron said.
"Ronald Weasley, I may not like him, but I'm not going to announce it to everyone it's rude and
immature. Besides he'll be making friends if we get him to meet people and when school starts." Hermione
said.
"She's right, I don't like him much either, but I also don't hate him anymore. I don't want to hang
out with him all year and the sooner we get him to make friends the better. Besides Neville is a loner he
could finally have Dudley as a friend and not have to worry about being left out all the time." Harry said.
"What do you mean by loner?" Ron asked confused.
"Simply that he doesn't try to fit in a group like us or with one person, like Dean and Seamus,
and even though we all try and welcome him in our groups he doesn't let himself be accepted. Don't
know why exactly, but I'm still working on trying to read him. He keeps himself hidden behind a
mask he has never showed his true face." Harry said though he did have an idea why, though he
couldn't say it to Hermione or Ron because he gave his word he wouldn't.
"Right, well we seem to have a free day today, what do you guys want to do?" Ron asked.
"Well I'm needing to go speak with Dumbledore tonight, but until then I don't really care, do
you two want to go and see Hagrid?" Harry asked.
"Sure we haven't seen him in a few days, he hasn't come to meals lately. I wonder what
he's doing," Hermione said as they headed back out the entrance hall to the grounds to go and see
Hagrid.
Several minutes they found Hagrid sitting on his porch reading from The Mark of Zorro. They
could all see that he was on his last chapter.
Harry signaled to Hermione and Ron to stay quiet until he was finished. So all three sat down
in front of him in a circle on the grass. With Harry directly across from Hagrid and Ron and Hermione
sitting on the across from each other. Several minutes later Hagrid grinned and chuckled, then
cleared his throat.
"I do know your here," Hagrid said still not looking up from the book.
"How'd you know it was us?" Ron asked then Hagrid looked up.
"I saw you come out of the castle and head down here," Hagrid said closing his book.
"You finished the book then?" Hermione asked.
"Aye, very delightful, now Harry you said there was a reason you got me this book, what
is it?" Hagrid asked as all three of them turned to look at Harry curiously.
"Hagrid do you know what a personal hero is?" Harry asked not taking his eyes off of Hagrid.
"You mean like someone a person looks up too, like a parent, grandparent, or someone
famous like a singer?" Hagrid said somewhat confused.
"Yes, in the muggle world a lot of people look to fiction character heros who save the day with
supernatural or superhuman skills. Zorro is a charactor with superhuman skills with a saber in a time
of tyranny and oppression. This-," Harry said taking the book from Hagrid and holding the cover up.
,"- is my way of showing and telling you that your my hero," Harry said taking a pause letting it sink
into Hagrid's shocked brain.
Hermione however took this moment to get up, grab Ron's arm and drag him away so Harry
and Hagrid could finish their coversation privatly.
"Your--hero?" Hagrid asked shocked and confused.
"Yes, Hagrid your my Zorro, you came in the middle of the night through a monster storm taking
me away from my tyranist of an aunt and uncle. Using your umbrella to threaten them and scare
them without actually hurting them. You saved me from my oppression and gave me the freedom I
have been trying to get, and you helped me to take the path I wanted to take."
By this time Hagrid was grinning with tears streaming down his face and into his whiskers. He
was so still so shocked he still hadn't bothered to grab his hankerchief. Now they were both silent, but
Harry was slightly worried he said to much, but then Hagrid reached his arms down to Harry and pulled
him into a tight, but warm hug.
"I'm honored, to be your Zorro, Harry," Hagrid said happily and Harry couldn't help to get slightly
misty eyed as well.
tbc....
The more reviews I get the faster I will upload... reviews are my fuel. If you don't
review you get no more chapters
The next morning at breakfast a big brown barn owl flew into the
Great Hall. It landed in front of Hermione carrying a copy of the Daily
Prophet. Hermione paid the owl and opened the paper. She gasped and
read a small article on the front page.
"What is it Hermione?" Harry asked.
"It's starting Harry," Hermione said handing over the newspaper.
Harry read the small article on the front page.
PETER PETTIGREW FOUND ALIVE?!
Peter Pettigrew found near Salazar Town.
Pettigrew was to be dead by Sirius Black who betrayed the
Potters to Voldemort and were attacked at their house on Halloween night
of 1981.
Leaving only young Harry Potter to survive.
"I saw him get some food from Far Away Places that store over there."
said one witch.
Now he's at Hogwarts where the staff, Harry Potter and the Headmaster
Albus Dumbledore
are watching him carefully.
Now the Ministry of Magic is still looking for Black and try to get to
go to Hogwarts.
by Nikki Love
"Man your right Harry, they really did change the story, being
spotted and captured near a store, would probably go better I guess.
They'll have to write the truth, once Sirius and Wormtail have their
trials," Hermione said.
"Whose the witness that spotted Wormtail suppose to be?" Harry
asked Dumbledore.
"We just sent in an anonymous tip to the Daily Prophet. When they
came and questioned us, we admitted to Peter staying here to await a trial.
Speaking of which I believe that's the schedule for the trials coming,"
Dumbledore said starring openly at a spot behind them. Everyone turned to see a
screetch owl flying to them. The screetch owl was carrying two letters. The
owl swooped down to Harry and landed. Once Harry took the letters the owl flew off.
Harry looked at the letters and saw one addressed to himself and the other
to the headmaster.
"Sir, this one's for you," Harry said handing the letter over. He
then quickly opened his letter and read it outloud to everyone.
Dear Mr. Potter,
The trials for Peter Pettigrew will be held on August 7th. The
acting Minister of Magic has recommended that you and your friends be there
as witnesses. The trial will be held in the Merlin Justice Hall at 10 A.M.
The Headmaster Albus Dumbledore shall bring you to the Hall on the morning of
the trial. Everything shall proceed from there.
Meavelyn McDouie and Charles Diggory
Suprieme Counslers
"Mr. Diggory is judging the trial?" Harry asked Dumbledore after he
read the name.
"Apparently, Mr. Diggory got interested when he found out you were
involved with this, he'll probably be judging Sirius' and Cornelius' trial
as well," Dumbledore explained.
"Does yours say when Dirius will get his trial, I want to be ready to
defend him, when it's time," Harry said. "In fact is there anyway to get a
hold of the paperwork from the scene on the street and get ahold of Sirius's
old wand?" Harry asked.
"No, we are making sure not to even speak of Sirius, until Peter says
anything on the stand. And yes, I shall write to Arthur soon. The whole Minisry
of Magic is under investigation, because of Cornelius. Now would be a good time
before some things go missing," Dumbledore said.
"So we have a week until Wormtail's trial?" Ron asked.
"That's correct, Mr. Weasley," Dumbledore said.
"How are you going to transport Wormtail to the trial?" Hermione asked.
"He'll be going in his rat form, transfigured by Professor McGonagal and
put in a charmed cage provided by Professor Flitwick to keep animagus formed in
their animal form. I myself
will carry the cage to the trial. I'll tell you this, the trials over Peter and
Sirius should only take a few hours each. However Cornelius will be taking
probably a few months. Right now Arthur is looking into everything Cornelius has
done in the ministry. Starting from his term as minister, to back when he started
work in the owl room. So his whole work history is under investigation. Sounds
like they'll first try him with assault of a student, leading to him denying
responsibilites as Minister, to boot him out of office. So we will be in the
process of getting a new minister," Dumbledore explained.
"Sir, how can we be sure a better or worse person than Fudge will get the
job. Is the process the same as the Parlament?" Harry asked.
(Okay I did look up the British Parliament in the encyclopedia, however it
didn't explain how the minister is picked so I'm making this up. No offence
to any politicians in Britain).
"Well, I'm not clear on today's muggle government, but last I understood
we are, though with slight differences. There will be campaign over two people
running for minister whoever gets the most votes gets the position," Dumbledore
said.
"How will you be sure a supporter of Voldemorts will win or not? Or even
run?" Harry asked.
"Well, automatically we have one spot taken and it's failed by the acting
minister if he so agrees," Dumbledore said smiling to Ron who sat up.
"Your saying my dad is running for minister?" Ron asked his mouth hanging
open.
"Yes, that's correct Mr. Weasley." Dumbledore said.
"Oh wow, this is amazing, why didn't he tell me that," Ron asked.
"He wanted to wait until things were underway, he spoke to your mother
and your siblings last night, he wanted theris and your blessings he wanted me
to tell you this morning, then he'll be by around noon to speak with you
personally." Dumbledore said.
"Well I'm proud of Mr. Weasley, but whose the other candidate going to
be?" Harry asked.
"Your certainly full of questions about politics, Potter," Snape commented.
"Correct, sir, but how else am I suspose to learn, besides I have a say
in what goes on in my government life. Especially when it could meant the
differance between the ruling of terony and compression and the freedom we're
used to," Harry said.
"You know what terony and compression is Mr. Potter?" McGonagall asked
shocked, all the professors and adults were looking at Harry shocked.
Harry and Hermione shared a quick glance.
"Yes Professor McGonagal, we first learn of it in fairy tales, legends, and
hero stories of some form or another. Though they never teach the correct name of
the cruelty, they leave a lasting impression on the mind of kids. Sometimes it
doesn't set in at all until someone points it out to us, or if we get to thinking
about it ourselves. Plus the meanest rulers in history are only famous because of
the cruelty they placed on their people. Like Prince John, The Hon, even Adolf
Hitler and todays rulers of the middle east who torture their people in corruption.
Also it's all mainly in this book we are reading." Harry explained pulling out his
black book from his pocket then paused for a second and looked to Hermione.
"That's what you understanding from, the Mark of Zorro, right how Zorro is
fighting against the cruel and greedy commandonte?" Harry asked.
"I don't know yet, I just read the preface to chapter 3, where Zorro has his
first fight with in Pueblo de la Los Angeles with Sergeant Gonzales, but it does
sound like it will be, if it's anything like the tv show?" Hermione said.
"Mark of Zorro what is that about?" McGonagal asked.
"It's a muggle book that has a man disquised in black and a mask, he's
fighting against a group of men ruling the old California with terony. He goes by
the name of Zorro, which means Fox in spanish, the creature of the night. Anyway
that's the gist of it," Harry explained.
"A muggle book you say, sounds interesting," Dumbledore said.
"It must be if Harry is carrying it in his cloak's pocket," Ron spoke up
causing everyone at the table to laugh.
"May I see the book, Potter?" Snape asked holding out his hand. Apparently
he was the only one not laughing, or at least snickering like Hermione and
McGonagal were doing. Everyone quieted down as Harry passed the book to Snape
who read the preview and the clip inside the cover. Then Snape snorted once.
"Figures you would read something with a damsel in distress, Potter," Snape said
as he handed the book around to everyone at the table to see.
"Of course sir, whats a hero without a damsel or at least a himt of romance
involved? It's a unwritten rule in the muggle world where the hero always gets the
girl. Especially in the Western and Early American stories." Harry said calmly.
"Back to your question Harry, we already have another person who will run.
And I assure you that he is trustworthy." Dumbledore exlained then he looked at
the book that was handed to him, reading the preview and the clip. "Very
interesting, looks like we'll be needing a new section in the library, for muggle
authors."
Both Hermione and Harry perked up, Hermioone of course was almost jumping up
and down in her chair. Harry however just sat up straighter.
"For real sir?" Hermione asked excitedly.
"Seems only fittng that we do, after all we have fiction and non-fiction books
written by wizards and witches. We should have muggle literature as well," Dumbledore
explained.
Suddenly Hermione's face went bright as if she thought of something and
indeed she did. "Sir have you ever thought of starting a reading club?"
AN: I didn't write the newspaper article a wonderful and helpful author by
the name of Vella wrote the original
and we formed it to work with the story. So please send a thank you review to her
as well. Thanks a bunch to Vella and to you people reviewing. If your just reading
I hope your enjoying it.
Review please!!!
Chapter Seventeen
Several days later everybody had gotten up early and was eating beakfast early.
They were going to Peters trial today. Sirius was wanting to go, but Dumbledore didn't
want him captured or taken into custody until Peter had his trial. He wanted to wait
until the court had Peter's word. So Sirius was sulking in his food slightly.
"We'll tell you everything Sirius and we won't hold out on you," Harry promised
and Ron and Hermione agreed.
"Will I need to go?" Dudley asked.
"Yes, Dudley, your a witness to Peter being in the school and attacking you,"
Harry said.
"But what if I mess up on the facts?" Dudley said.
"Just tell the truth, Dudley, no one can expect more than that?" Harry said
trying to calm him. "Besides Wormtail will be given Veritsium Potion. Which is a
truth potion, forcing him to speak nothing but the truth. They'll give you some to
in fact all of us will be given some when we are questioned. We probably will go
first, if it's anything like muggle trial, wait hold on-." Harry turned to Dumbledore
and asked. "Sir would they need to us up if he's under the truth potion?"
"No not usaully, in fact they'll only give you a truth potion if your story
doesn't match up with the person in custody. And they'll only ask you questions if
they need to start clearing things up." Dumbledore said.
"Right, anyway sounds like they may not call on you Dudley, if they do just
speak the truth," Harry said.
"I still don't see why your being nice to him, Harry," Ron said glaring at
Dudley. Since Ron saw Harry talking civilly with his wicked cousin who used to bully
Harry with fist and punches. This is just a guess from the scars all over Harry that
Ron has seen whenever Harry had his shirt off. (an no Ron is not gay in this story
and neither is Harry, I'm not against it but I don't like reading those things, no
offense to anyone) Ron had downright made his feelings known on the matter that he
wasn't going to forgive Dudley anytime soon.
"Ron! Thou shall not hold false witness against thy neightbor," Hermione
exclaimed at Ron and then she continued. "It no business of yours what how Harry and
his cousin get along."
"It does when the monster has left scars and bruises all over my best friend's
chest and back, I've seen every year when we got here. Harry always told me he fell or
was clumsy, at first I believed him then after the first week when he never tripped,
feel or ran into things I knew it was an excuse. Later on Harry joked about his
relatives temper, that's when I knew where they came from...Hermione you never have to
see those marks, but I see them all the time. Everyyear it got worse and his ribs stuck
out more. Look at this guy, he not only eats his share of food he always ate Harry's
share as well. All the meat that should be on Harry is on him, why do you think that
is?" Ron asked.
"Ron it is no concern of yours how my cousin and I get along now. But your
right a month ago you had a right in sticking up for me and hating Dudley. Until he
apologised and I accepted, since then he hasn't raised a hand on me or even raised
his voice. So you no longer have a right to look down at my cousin. Just like I
have no right to look down at any of your siblings, not that I do anyway. So leave
him alone, if need be ignore him and don't talk to him or about him anywhere around
him or me. This is the last time we are having this discussion. So let it sink in.
The relationship between my cousin and myself is no longer your concern." Harry said
then he turned Hermione when Ron crossed his arms and his ears turned slightly red.
"Amen," Hermione said.
"I didn't know you were religous, Hermione?" Harry said.
"I went to a Catholic school before Hogwarts, besides the Bible does have
really good everyday lessons in it, but I don't really believe in alot of things
written in it." Hermione said. (by the way if anyone is strongly religous, I
apoligize for this next part, these are my beliefs and I don't want to be flamed
for it. I don't intend to insult anybody, it's just my logical mind putting in a
discussion between Harry and Hermione, one that Hermione would think about more
than Harry. I see Hermione being able to hold these beliefs because of her
logicalness to. And it is not ment to turn anyoneaway from the Bible..)
"What do you mean by that, what don't you believe in the Bible?" Harry asked.
"If you read the bible you'd realize that everything is written from the mans
point of view and their beliefs at the time it was written. Like how women are the
property of the man, only on this earth to bear him fruit, which of course means
sons. It's just...I don't know." Hermione said slightly panicing when she couldn't
think of the right words to say.
"In other words you believe in God and the Holy family, and the main stories
of Noah and Moses and Jesus. but don't believe everything in the Bible was written
fairly." Harry said.
"Yes exactly, have you read the Bible, Harry?" Hermione asked.
"I tried once I got to Moses getting down to the bottom of the mountain seeing
all the free slaves already commiting sins from the ten commandments he had recieved.
I was eight and Aunt Petunia caught me reading her grandmas Bible, and told me to
'keep my Pagan hands off her Bible', never knew what a Pagan was at the time. But most
of the stories were talked about in school in a way. So I picked up the main stories."
Harry said.
"So you knew the phrase from the bible from the latin words?" Hermione asked.
"Of course, the Catholic mass and Bibles used to be only in Latin all over the
world so that all Catholics could understand each other. Much like the Jews with
Hebrew. However, the translation of the Holy Bible was put in English, French,
Spanish, and many other translations so that all the common people could begin
to understand what the Bible said. Since they couldn't afford to have
education." Harry said.
"Wow, how'd you know that, they never talk about where the Catholic religon
comes from, they only spoke of the Bible. Where did you get this information?"
Hermione asked.
"I did a project for school once, the translation wasn't easy. In fact the
first prist who tried to translate the Bible for the everyday common people was
assassinated because the King wanted to keep control over the peaseants using the
Bible. I can't remember what country it was. I think it was either England or
France. Mostly France though, I want to say it was at Notre Dame when the priest
was in the middle of performing a mass, but I'm not sure." Harry said.
"Well either way that was very educationd, where did you find all this
stuff if you were locked in your room half the time?" Dudley asked.
"Why couldn't you ever find me during recess, Dudley, I was hardly ever
outside unless, I was forced out by the teachers." Harry said.
"I don't know where were you?" Dudley asked.
"I was in the school library learning to read from the librarian, after all
I got no help at Privet Drive. Then I went on and started to read anything and
everything at that library." Harry said.
"What about the public library, have you ever been in there, I don't remember
the library have to many books above the child reading level?" Dudley asked.
"Have you ever been to the school library?" Harry asked.
"Just a couple times when we went to the library for some class project."
Dudley said.
"Well the school also had internet connection and an encyclopedia. Plus you
can arrange for the school library to have books from the public library be
transferred to the school library. I have never been to the public library. They
sent books I wanted to read to the school library and the librarian would even ask
for other books I would like." Harry said.
"Why did you read that much though. You defiantly never brought the books home,
I riped up your homework enough to know." Dudley said
"That's why I liked doing my Hogwarts homework, you were to afraid to touch
anything for or from this place, anyway I only read the books at the library because
if I brought it to Privet Drive. Your parents would of called me a theif and ripped
the book up and made me pay for it by doing some work at the library. Which I wanted
to spend time reading not working." Harry said.
Dumbledore then spoke up and said that they should be leaving for the trial.
Once they had all gone outside they saw a carriage waiting for them. So
Harry, Hermione, Ron, Dudley, and Dumbledore got in.
"Sir is this carriage taking a us to the Ministry?" Hermione asked wide-eyed.
"Indeed well be traveling underground and should be there in about two hours."
Dumbledore said his eyes twinkling.
"Professor where is Wormtail?" Harry asked.
"Right here," Dumbledore said pulling a round out a glass ball the size of a
softball and a small rat the size of a walnut inside the ball. They all saw the
tiny rat trying to claw against the glass. "He won't be able to get out very easily."
please don't flame me for that religon stuff up there, but you are welcome to
comment about it on a review as long as you post you opinion on the story itself
as well. If you don't and the review flames me about my
beliefs then I may delete your review..
However please review if you plan to be honest and nice about it. I like to read
people's opinions on more things than
just reviews. In fact if anyone wants to chat about anything worth while from the
story or even something you
thought of about this story leave a review, oh heck or anything all together go ahead.
I'll even try to get back to you.
Wormtail's Trial
Chapter Eighteen
About two hours later the carriage stopped in front of a huge stone building
that stood just off the coast of the Atlantic. Harry looked around once he got out
and saw that the Ministry is in the middle of the country with grassy plains all
around and a old muggle lighthouse in the distance.
"Oh my it's beautiful," Hermione said looking toward the ocean.
"Indeed it is, it always takes my breath away," Dumbledore said.
"Are we still in Scotland?" Hermione asked.
"Indeed we are Ms. Granger, unfortunately we aren't here to site see, if
you'll please follow me," Dumbledore said as they headed for the huge mahogony
wooden doors. As they stepped up to the door they saw a gargoyle with a long collar
around it's neck being used as a door handle. Dumbledore then stopped in front of
the stone gargoyle face, everyone watched as it came to life.
"Name and business you seek here?" the gargoyle said.
"Albus Dumbledore here with Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ronald Weasley and
Dudley Dursley for the trial of Peter Pettigrew," Dumbledore spoke up.
"Proceed go to Merlin's Justice Hall on B5 to courtroom #1 the trial is setting
up now," the gargoyle said and opened up the doors for them to enter. The first thing
they saw was a grand lobby that had the ceiling covered with paintings of many wizards
and witches. Harry was guessing they were of previous Ministers. They all followed
Dumbledore through a door that lead to room completely filled with ropes hanging on
the walls. With a place written on a board on each rope. Dumbledore directed each of
them to one in the far corner. Above the rope it said 'Merlin's Justice Hall.'
"One at a time, grab this rope here. It'll be taking you to the Justice Hall,
Remus will be waiting for you there," Dumbledore explained.
So one by one, they grabbed the rope. First Hermione then Ron then Dudley who
looked extremly worried after watching the other two disappear. Then Harry, once he
grabbed the rope he felt sort of weightless and then a tickling as he found himself
with the group again. Realizing he was still clutching the rope he quickly let go and
turned to Remus.
"What was that?" Harry asked.
"A directory rope, a visitor can only gain access to places in the ministry
by inventation. If tried to grab any other rope, you'd be sent back to the
gargoyle," Remus explained just as Dumbledore appeared.
"So it's a form of security." Hermione commented mostly.
"Correct Ms. Granger," Dumbledore said.
Harry looked around at the oval Justice Hall and saw a Statue of Merlin in
the center of the oval with doors all around.
Dumbledore went to the door the closest on the their right. On the door it
read Courtroom I. When they walked in Harry found a short oval courtroom. With a
high curved table with two chairs in the center slightly higher than the rest. In
the center of the courtroom was a wooden chair that held magical restraints. Harry
remember seeing one like this in Dumbledore's pensieve. Harry also saw some church
like benches in place on the sides of the courtroom. Harry saw one news reporter
from the Daily Prophet and one photographer.
Dumbledore pointed out the benches where they were going to sit. While Remus
took the group to the benches Dumbledore went up to the chair and pulled Wormtail
out of the cage. Dumbledore transfigured him into Peter and magically bound him to
the chair, until only his hand head could move. While Dumbledore was doing so,the
reporter was writing away with her quill and the photographer was clicking away.
Just as Dumbledore sat back the council stepped into the courtroom and two
people headed for the high seats in the middle. Amos Diggory and a woman who, Harry
guessed, was Meavelyn McDouie sat next to him. There also five other people sitting
around them that seemed to have big titles to their names. Harry's first impression
of the group of people is that they were fair, but firm in their decisions. He also
saw that Amos Diggory had noticed he was there but hadn't looked at him. Soon after
everyone was settled Mr. Diggory spoke.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we shall begin momentarily, Jestin please go ahead and
give Mr. Pettigrew the Veritaserium we'll let it set in until Arthur Weasley arrives.
"Yes, sir," Jestin said as he took a bottle of the truth potion from a locked
cabinet on his left. He then walked over and made Wormtail take three drops on the
bottom of his tongue. They all watched as his eyes became slightly glazed and his
scared expression become relaxed and limp.
They all sat in silence for several minutes until the door opened and in
walked Arthur Weasley. Arthur quickly walked over and sat down next to Harry who sat
next to Ron and then Hermione. Then Dumbledore, Remus, and Dudley sat behind them.
"Carry on Amos," Arthur said.
"Thank you, Arthur," Amos said as he nodded to Arthur then he turned to the
woman on the far right side of the table.
"Elaina, is the Quote Quill ready?" Amos asked. (Notice I didn't say Quick,
this Quill only writes what people say).
"Indeed, sir, begin anytime," she said.
"Right, you ready Meave?"
"Completely Amos, now enough of the opening credits, let's begin." Meave said
getting more comfortable in her chair.
"State your name for the record,"Amos told Peter.
"Peter-Judas-Pettigrew," Peter stated with no reaction, Harry however turned a
sharp glance at Hermione, who glanced back. Ron looked between them and their glances.
"What is it?" Ron asked.
"Peters' middle name is Judas," Harry said "fits doesn't it."
"How's that?" Ron asked.
"Do you know the Bible stories Ron?" Hermione asked.
"Of course who doesn't." Ron asked.
"Judas was the apostle who betrayed Jesus to the Romans," Harry explained.
"Oh right, gotcha." Ron said then he turned back to the trial.
"As of right now Mr. Pettigrew you have a clean slate, however everything you
confess today, shall determine your fate. Wheather it'd be a fine, prisonment,
dementors kiss, or sometimes in special cases punishments decided by the court based
on the wrong doing. If you are found innocent you shall you shall be set free, do
you understand these conditions?" Amos asked.
"Yes," Peter said
"Alright then, Mr Pettigrew on October 31, 1981. Many witnesses claimed to see
you be killed by one Sirius Black. Yet somehow your sitting here talking to us. Could
you explain to us how you are still alive. I'm also told by Albus Dumbledore that it
is a long story, and that several events lead up to that night, as well as after.
Start from the beginning then finish up when you were spotted and taken to Hogwarts a
couple weeks ago," Meave said.
"Back when my friends and myself were in school at Hogwarts-"
"Who were these friends, now?" Meave asked.
"Remus Lupin, Sirius Black, and James Potter," Peter said
"Alright, continue please," Meave said making sure Elaina got the names.
"During our second year we were reckonizing a pattern with Remus once a month he
would disappear for three days and come back very thin and sickly looking. We soon
realized that Remus was a werewolf," there were a gasp from the high table. "we all
decided to keep him company when Remus tranforms each month. In doing so Sirius, James
and I became an unregistered animagus. James was a stag, Sirius is a dog and I am a
rat-," Amos interrupted this time.
"Kristy, put down an unregister animagus on the list of charges. Continue Mr.
Pettigrew," Amos said.
"Several years later, James and Lily with their son Harry went into hiding from
You-Know-Who. James was needing a secretkeeper for the Fidelius Charm. Professor
Dumbledore had offered, but James originally wanted Sirius Black-," Peter was
interrupted again.
"What do you mean originally, wasn't Sirius Black their secretkeeper and
betrayed the Potters to You-Know-Who that's what Fudge said for years?" Meave asked
confused.
"That's what Fudge said isn't it, we'd better listen to this." Amos said calmly
"James did want Sirius Black, but Sirius refused at the last minute. James and
Sirius were best friends and Sirius is Harry's godfather and everyone knew that. Even
You-Know-Who. So Sirius told James to use me as secretkeeper and in turn I would go
into hiding and Sirius would be secretkeeper for me." Peter was stopped again.
"Let me make sure we're understanding this Mr. Pettigrew. YOU were the Potters
secretkeeper?" Amos asked shocked.
"Yes," Peter said.
"You betrayed the Potters to You-Know-Who? How did you do that, Sirius was the
spy as I heard?" Meave said.
"No I was the spy, I had been for two years at the time," Peter said.
"As a death eater?" Amos asked.
"Yes in the top circle," Peter said and all the room was speechless.
There was dead silence for several minutes.
"Kristy, please put down two murders of the 2nd degree for James and Lily
Potter, one attempt of murderof the 2nd degree for Harry Potter. And also charge for
being a death eater." Amos finally spoke up. Harry was shocked of the charge set for
himself and he stared open mouthed, without blinking, at Mr. Diggory until Mr. Weasley
patted him lightly on the back. "You are a human being too Harry." Ron said next to him.
"Continue, Mr. Pettigrew, what happened next?" Amos asked.
"After You-Know-Who killed the Potters, and disappeared I ran into the muggle
world hiding. Sirius track me down in his dog form and confronted me. When he
confronted me I made a scene by hollering 'James and Lily, Sirius, how could you?' I
had my wand behind my back. He grabbed me then I put a tickling spell on him. I
quickly cut off my finger and blew up the street then ran down a sewer drain in my
animagus form. I soon showed myself as a rat to a wizard family who took me in for
almost twelve years-,"
"Did this family know who you were?" Meave asked.
"No, they didn't," Peter said.
"What was their name?" Amos asked.
"Weasley, I was passed down the sons for each one the entered Hogwarts. Ron
Weasley was my last owner." Peter said.
"Ron Weasley? Arthur is this one Ron?" Amos asked jesturing to Ron.
"Yes, Amos," Arthur said looking stunned.
"Ron can you stand please," Meave said.
"Yes, ma'am," Ron said standing up.
"Ron did you know about Mr. Pettigrew being your rat?" Amos asked.
"No, not until 3rd year when Professor Lupin and Sirius had forced Peter to show
himself and confess. Harry and Hermione were also there. The two were able to reckonize
him from a missing toe, and of course Sirius could smell him in my pocket. When Peter
managed to escape in his rat form Sirius went after him as a dog. I had passed out
by that point from a broken leg. Harry and Hermione saw the rest," Ron said pulling
Harry up to his feet.
"Er right, anyway there were dementors on the school grounds who attacked
Sirius. Hermione and I went to try and help protect Sirius from the dementors. I
casted a Patronus to scare them away. Just before I passed out, one of the
dementors had tried to kiss me and Hermione had already passed out. We woke up
in the hospital wing with Dumbledore, Snape, and Fudge there. We tried to explain
that Sirius was innocent, but Fudge didn't believe us. He was saying we had been
given a memory charm from Sirius. So he refused to give Sirius a retrial since we
didn't have Peter" Harry said.
"I sense there is more there Harry, but since this isn't Black's trial yet
we won't question you about Black yet. We'll wait for his trial." Amos said looking
closely at Harry.
"That true sir, I've only said the actions of Peter and what he has caused
that night, I'm willing to tell what happened for Sirius but not until his trial as
well," Harry said.
"Alright go ahead and sit down you two," Amos said as both Harry and Ron
took their seats.
"Wait Amos, Harry said he could perform a Patronus, he's a boy there is no
way he can-" but Meave was cut off.
"Actually, he can Meave, he performed one beautifully in the third task in
the Triwizard Tournament, saw him myself," Amos said. "Kristy put a charge against
avoiding arrest."
"Do continue, Mr. Pettigrew I must say you are running out of use of your
last name." Meave said.
(Okay I change what wormtail called Voldemort for dramatic affect. I did
this on purpose)
"I ran off to find my master, I nursed his spirit back to heath. Then I went
and helped my master set up the Triwizard Tournament as a trap to bring Harry Potter
to my master. We had an inside source-," Peter was interrupted.
"Yes, yes Dumbledore told me about him I already gave everyone a copy of what
Barty Crouch said, please continue," Amos said slightly angry.
"We started planning my master back to his body, the night of the third task
the inside source turned the cup into a portkey to bring Harry potter to the
graveyard where my masters father is buried. When the key transported Harry to us,
another champion was clutching the cup as well. My master told me to 'kill the spare'
so I killed the other boy and tied Harry up to a headstone marked for my masters
father. I performed a ritual using the bone of the father, the blood of an enemy
using Harry's, and flesh given freely by a servant," Peter raised his stumped hand.
"I brought him back and he dualed with Harry who manage to escape clutching the
dead boy and the cup out of there." Peter said.
Harry saw Mr. Diggory go red with anger and speak through clenched teeth.
"Kristy add murder to the 1st degree of a wizard and of twelve muggles."
"Unless there is anything else after that, how did you get captured?" Meave said.
"I was in Hogwarts and I cornered Harry's cousin. I was stunned and taken
to Dumbledore by Harry and Padfoot," Peter said.
Both Amos and Meave looked confused, though Amos looked like he wanted to
strangle Wormtail.
"Albus who is Padfoot?" Meave asked.
"He is a member of the order that was walking with Harry to find his cousin."
Dumbledore said.
"Kristy please add trespassing onto school grounds to the list," Meave said.
"then read all the charges." Meave said.
"Yes ma'am, one count of unregistered animagus
two counts of murder to the 2nd degree for James and Lily Potter
one count of attempt of murder to the 2nd degree for Harry Potter
one count of being a death eater
one count of murder to the 1st degree of Cedric Diggory a wizard
twelve counts of murder to the 1st degree of muggles
one count of trespassing on school grounds
"All this those who find Peter quilty?" Meave said then and everyone raised
their hands.
"Right we shall continue with a sentence in a few minutes. Albus may we have
your opinion on this?" Amos asked Dumbledore.
"Certainly Amos," Dumbledore said getting up and following the group to another
room.
"I think we all agreethat Peter should be sentence to death or dementors kiss,"
Amos said then continued after everyone had nodded then he continued. "However I do
see a slight problem with that."
"How's that Amos?" Meave asked.
"Because Peter is in the inner circle of Voldemorts followers. Peter may have
information we could use against him. I believe the light side could benefit on
making him a prisoner of war, but there is no way of getting answer from him if he's
dead," Amos said.
"I see what your saying Amos, and it's a good idea, but what should we do with
him we can't send him to Azghaban it could kill him in a matter of weeks, where would
we put him. Where we could keep an eye on him and torture him enough were he won't
go insane?" Meave asked.
"If you might Amos I have an idea on what you can do," Dumbledore spoke up.
For several minutes there was complete silence in the courtroom where only a
quill from the reporters hand was scratching furiously across a pad of parchment to
catch up.
Arthur turned to the teenagers and asked what has been nagging on his mind
during the trial.
"Were you saying that Peter was actually Scabbers, you said that Scabbers ran
off. You could've told your mother and I the truth Ron. We would've believe you
three." Mr. Weasley said looking slightly hurt.
"I'm sorry dad, I promise to tell the family the whole story, some of it we
have to wait for Sirius's trial, only one adult listened to us that night. Everyone
else called us delusional, besides I didn't want you defending us from Fudge and
getting fired." Ron said going slightly red and shifting slightly.
"Your right, Ron I would've done that. If Fudge would've fired me, I'd have
quit, then head straight for the papers I have a lot of things to use as blackmail
agaisnt him. Besides somethings are worth getting fighting and losing a job over.
You yourself have done it on several occassions. You risked expulsion even life
itself several times doing what you know is right. One was by holding a professor
hostage to save your Ginny, that is what Molly and I saw. If Dumbledore had expelled
you from school. Molly and I would've been even more in debt to you three. So never
back down Ron and always come to us when the world doesn't believe you. That includes
the two of you as well. I'll agree to do the same," Arthur said.
"Let's listen to him guys, he knows what he's saying and Dumbledore couldn't of
said it better," Harry said.
"I promise Dad," Ron said putting his hand out to his dad who took it and held
on as a pact. Without letting go Arthur looked to Harry and Hermione.
"I was including my two adopted by heart children as well," Arthur said smiling.
Both Harry and Hermione grinned proudly. Harry stuck his hand on top of Arthurs and
Rons that was right in front of him. Hermione got up and walked in to be across from
Harry and put her hand on top of Harrys. Then Ron took his other hand and placed it on
Hermione's and sealed the pact.
"Right, I shall bring the family the night after Sirius's trial and you can tell
us the whole story then." Arthur said pulling his hand away just as the door opened
letting Dumbledore and the trial heads back in. Harry, Ron and Hermione dropped their
hands and Hermione sat back down as Dumbledore came back over. Once the court had
all sat down Amos spoke up.
"The trial head had decided, Peter Judas Pettigrew you have been sentenced to
death. However due to special circumstances you do not have a fixed sentenced date.
However once Voldemort is destroyed, you shall be given the choice of three different
ways to die. Since you have killed more muggles than wizard, you shall be executed
by hanging, firing squad, or beheading. The reason you have no sentence date is so
we can gain information from you to help defeat Voldemort. If you do help enough to
eliminate Voldemort we shall change your sentence to life in prison." Amos said then
paused and said one last thing. "And when you die Pettigrew, rot in hell."
To be continued....
I know your happy. I'm now back on scheduel and will be updating now that I know what
I'm going to do... thank you for waiting patiently and I hope you enjoy what I have decided to
have this story will end up being.
Many thanks to my fellow writers and fans who left a review and sent me comments when
I needed help..
Nik
Chapter Seventeen
Harry smiled freely and stood up while watching Peter shift nervously. He doubted
Wormtail knew anything that Voldemort had planned. If there was one thing Voldemort was
good at, it was his intelligence. Harry knew that Voldemort wouldn't tell any of his followers
what he had planned. Especially if he didn't trust them to not turn their backs on him if given
the chance. Harry knew that Voldemort would only use the need-to-know bases strategy for
his followers. The only thing Voldemort would gloat about, as he himself witnessed, would
be things that already came to pass and can't be changed.
Harry was brought out of his thoughts when Hermione came in front of him and Ron
and hugged them both at once, tightly around their necks with one arm each. Harry couldn't
breathe and he saw Ron turn red from the lack of oxygen too.
"Guys, it's really happening, Snuffles will be free in a matter of days! We'll have to
celebrate, we'll need to do something special. Not a party we've had several these past few
weeks. We should -," Hermione stopped when she felt Harry tapping her shoulder. She
backed a step and asked. "What?" just now seeing his red face.
"A-i-r," Harry gasped out.
"Oh, sorry guys," Hermione said blushing and immediatly letting go.
"When-did-a-hug-become-deadly?" Ron asked managing to gasp it all out. Harry took
several deep breaths before answereing.
"First time-for everything, but-don't want to start-a new cause of death-stranglation by
a-happy hugging hysterical girl-forgeting her strength." Harry said rubbing his throat.
"That was uncalled for," Hermione said slightly grinning.
"Right back at you," Ron said then he focused his eyes past Hermione. Harry and
Hermione looked into the direction Ron was looking and saw Amos Diggory heading their way.
"Hello Harry, the court will be putting an article in the Daily Prophet the day after
tomorrow. Is there anyway you can make sure Sirius Black get's ahold of it. It'll give him
a place and time to meet up with court officals safetly whom Dumbledore and myself
trust," Amos Diggory said.
"Excuse me sir, why won't it be in tomorrows edition?' Ron asked slightly confused.
"They will be covering this trial and of course-- Voldemorts being returned, speaking
of which, the reporter wants to get your view point of his return, Harry. I told them only if you
were willing to explain what happened." Mr Diggory said.
"Only after I read what they wright for the trials, and they let me read a rough draft of
the interview and no quick quote quills allowed." Harry said.
Amos Diggory smiled in good humor. "Right, I shall let the reporters know." Just as
Amos Diggory went to inform the reporter, Harry spoke up again. "Oh and Mr. DIggory, no
photographers allowed either."
Oxxxxxx)=====Z====================== borrowed with permission from Serpensortia
now known as AngieAstravic I just took off Godric Gryffindor and put a Z in to stand for Zorro.
(but your smart hopefully you already figured it out.
Once they got back to Hogwarts, Sirius was waiting for them in the entrance hall.
"Well come on, what happened?" Sirius asked.
"Wormtail's quilty charged with
one count of unregistered animagus
two counts of 2nd degree murder of wizards James and Lily Potter
one count of attempted 2nd degree murder of wizard of H- er myself
one count of first degree murder of wizard Cedric Diggory
twelve counts of first degree muggle murder
one count for being death eater
one count of trespassing on school grounds
Originally given sentence of death, however the council thinks he knows some of
Voldemorts plans. Which I doubt... so if he gives enough valueable information for the war,
they will change the sentence to life in prison. However judging from his body language, and
from what I know of Voldemort, Wormtail wouldn't know his plans," Harry said.
"What makes you think that, Harry?" Dumbledore asked. Harry, seeing the twinkle in
Dumbledores eyes, could tell the Dumbledore already knew what he was talking about, but
was letting him use his brain... again.
"I may not know him very well, but everytime I saw him, he gloated so excitedly and
happily, that they had to be the only time he bragged about his plans. He only talked about
his full course of plans after it all happens. He'll be running at a need-to-know attitude with
his followers. Especially now that he knows he can't trust them to follow him loyally. He only
speaks when they will all see the power and the fear he can dish out. He tested the death
eaters last year when he got their marks showing again. He wanted to see who was still loyal,
he wasn't happy when no one came until they were summoned. So he'll give one death eater
a job scare them enough so that they won't share their job with each other or anybodyelse.
So even if Voldemort did tell Wormtail his plans, and if Wormtail even tells us anything to use
against him. Voldemort will have him killed, no matter what he does he's going to die, and
Wormtail knows it," Harry explained then he shifted slightly at the looks he was getting. 'You'd
think they'd be used to this by now,' he thought.
"What?"
"Harry, you already know how to read You-Know-Who's mind after meeting him three
times you can remember... your using strategy, how is it you suck so much at chess?" Ron
asked bewildered.
"Because I suck at chess, besides chess is different from real life. While a person
thinks about one chess game for only an hour or so. I've spent hours, days, and weeks thinking
about the times I've meet the guy. And now that I can attach and detach from those memories I
can look closely at each line and decipher his brain, with meaning, the way he thinks, and how
he sees himself and others," Harry said.
"Harry, do you realize your profiling him? Sir, he's not trained in doing such a thing, some
of the best profilers have gone mad thinking like the criminals they are chasing. I'm not doubting
Harry, but could this have surver consequences on his brain?" Hermione asked.
"Not with what your thinking, it's only if you begin understanding and agreeing with what
they think, Harry here is just reading his language, and deeper into his vocal language. Coming
up with conclusions that just happen to be right. For instance you three don't get along well with
Draco Malfoy if I'm correct, Ron tell me what is Draco's favorite food?" Dumbledore asked.
"Er,.. anything with potatos, but he goes after mash potatos the most," Ron said.
"Correct, Hermione what is Harry's favorite breadfast food?" Dumbledore asked. Hermione
looked to Harry a few seconds before answering
"-----oatmeal? I think." Hermione said.
"Actually, it's toast." Dumbledore said.
"Really?" Hermione asked Harry shocked.
"Yes," Harry said slightly laughing.
"You see Hermione, the proof is there that you read your enemies more than your friends.
It's a natural and healthy habit, it'll help keep your eyes on others who'd do you or your friends
harm," Dumbledore said.
"Keep you friends close and your enemies closer," Ron said.
"Never really got that till now," Harry admitted.
"Okay, back to me, when is my trial?" Sirius asked.
"There will be a article in the paper after tomorrow, for you Sirius, it'll tell you a time and
place to meet the court counsil whom Dumbledore and Judge Diggory trust," Remus explained.
"Alright everyone let's get on with today's work, Harry how much farther have you gone
with Dudley?" Dumbledore asked.
"He's done real well, sir, he's now reading long worded picture books. He'll probably need
to start on simple chapter books soon, he should start working with Remus actually. Since he'll
need to get used to Remus's teaching style," Harry said. "Besides there's a week and a half left
before school starts and I won't be able to help him as much then."
"That's a good idea, have him read one whole chapter book then I'll start carrying on with
reading comprehension and other basic stuff. I've already written down a non-grade test for
reading, math, history, and science, muggle of course. I'll be making a schedule from that," Remus
said. "Harry you mind if we work on that today?"
"No that's fine," Harry said.
"You two are also needing to go to get your things from Diagon Alley you should go before
Sirius trial is made public, I'll send Snape to take you tomorrow. He's needing to order some potion
ingrediants anyway." Dumbledore said to Ron and Hermione.
The two Gryffindors shared looks. "Harry can come too, can't he?" Ron asked.
"Of course he'll go, bringing Dudley with him as well," Harry said slightly annoyed.
"That's fine," Dumbledore said. "just watch yourselves," then Dumbledore walked off toward
his office.
"Why are you bringing Dudley?" Ron asked.
"Because he'll need to get some simple reading books, Hogwarts library doesn't have any
he'll understand," Harry said.
"You realize that Hermione and I don't like him much don't you," Ron said.
"Ronald Weasley, I may not like him, but I'm not going to announce it to everyone it's rude and
immature. Besides he'll be making friends if we get him to meet people and when school starts." Hermione
said.
"She's right, I don't like him much either, but I also don't hate him anymore. I don't want to hang
out with him all year and the sooner we get him to make friends the better. Besides Neville is a loner he
could finally have Dudley as a friend and not have to worry about being left out all the time." Harry said.
"What do you mean by loner?" Ron asked confused.
"Simply that he doesn't try to fit in a group like us or with one person, like Dean and Seamus,
and even though we all try and welcome him in our groups he doesn't let himself be accepted. Don't
know why exactly, but I'm still working on trying to read him. He keeps himself hidden behind a
mask he has never showed his true face." Harry said though he did have an idea why, though he
couldn't say it to Hermione or Ron because he gave his word he wouldn't.
"Right, well we seem to have a free day today, what do you guys want to do?" Ron asked.
"Well I'm needing to go speak with Dumbledore tonight, but until then I don't really care, do
you two want to go and see Hagrid?" Harry asked.
"Sure we haven't seen him in a few days, he hasn't come to meals lately. I wonder what
he's doing," Hermione said as they headed back out the entrance hall to the grounds to go and see
Hagrid.
Several minutes they found Hagrid sitting on his porch reading from The Mark of Zorro. They
could all see that he was on his last chapter.
Harry signaled to Hermione and Ron to stay quiet until he was finished. So all three sat down
in front of him in a circle on the grass. With Harry directly across from Hagrid and Ron and Hermione
sitting on the across from each other. Several minutes later Hagrid grinned and chuckled, then
cleared his throat.
"I do know your here," Hagrid said still not looking up from the book.
"How'd you know it was us?" Ron asked then Hagrid looked up.
"I saw you come out of the castle and head down here," Hagrid said closing his book.
"You finished the book then?" Hermione asked.
"Aye, very delightful, now Harry you said there was a reason you got me this book, what
is it?" Hagrid asked as all three of them turned to look at Harry curiously.
"Hagrid do you know what a personal hero is?" Harry asked not taking his eyes off of Hagrid.
"You mean like someone a person looks up too, like a parent, grandparent, or someone
famous like a singer?" Hagrid said somewhat confused.
"Yes, in the muggle world a lot of people look to fiction character heros who save the day with
supernatural or superhuman skills. Zorro is a charactor with superhuman skills with a saber in a time
of tyranny and oppression. This-," Harry said taking the book from Hagrid and holding the cover up.
,"- is my way of showing and telling you that your my hero," Harry said taking a pause letting it sink
into Hagrid's shocked brain.
Hermione however took this moment to get up, grab Ron's arm and drag him away so Harry
and Hagrid could finish their coversation privatly.
"Your--hero?" Hagrid asked shocked and confused.
"Yes, Hagrid your my Zorro, you came in the middle of the night through a monster storm taking
me away from my tyranist of an aunt and uncle. Using your umbrella to threaten them and scare
them without actually hurting them. You saved me from my oppression and gave me the freedom I
have been trying to get, and you helped me to take the path I wanted to take."
By this time Hagrid was grinning with tears streaming down his face and into his whiskers. He
was so still so shocked he still hadn't bothered to grab his hankerchief. Now they were both silent, but
Harry was slightly worried he said to much, but then Hagrid reached his arms down to Harry and pulled
him into a tight, but warm hug.
"I'm honored, to be your Zorro, Harry," Hagrid said happily and Harry couldn't help to get slightly
misty eyed as well.
tbc....
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