(A/N: Hola amigos! Sorry this took so long to get out! I'm back and ready to give you the fourteenth chapter; Only 4 more months until the next "Harry Potter" book hits the stores. As this fanfic draws closer toward the end, I would like to thank everyone who reads my story! It's thanks to those who review that I keep this thing going. Anyhoo....you've waited long enough! Here it is! Please enjoy...not a lot of action....but here goes! On with the story...!)
Disclaimer: I own nothing, but the plot in this story. I'm certain J.K's "Order of the Phoenix" will be much better than this...but hopefully you'll enjoy this until then. :)
Review: As it's been so long since you've last read the story, here is a little background info to remind you:
** Present**
Ron is walking back from a late night quidditch practice 2 days before the game.
Moony has just informed Sirius that he knows *when* Harry is.
Dumbledore is being questioned by the Ministry.
And Hogwarts, for the most part, is in misery over Harry's disapperance.
~~ Past~~
The maurders were in Honeydukes buying Harry a Christmas present, when Harry is captured by Voldemort.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* An Evil Hero *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~~ The Present ~~
Ron retuned to Gryffindor tower early in the evening to find Hermione huddled over a piece of parchment; looking pensieve about what to write.
"What're you doing homework for?" asked Ron dully.
"It's a letter to Krum," murmured Hermione vaguely. Ron felt a pang of jealousy, but said nothing. Hermione sighed.
"I just don't know, Ron" said Hermione, frowning deeply. "I mean...I just can't believe Harry is--is..." she trailed off.
Ron said nothing. They sat there for a moment in silence, when Ron was struck with a thought.
"D'you reckon Dumbledore might know anything?" Ron burst out. "I mean, all he said was that no one had seen Harry since....you know..."
"I hope so," answered Hermione.
"Maybe we should go ask him about it..."
"I doubt he would tell us even if he did know something, Ron" said Hermione grimly. "If he didn't tell us yesterday, what makes you think he'll tell us now?"
"Oh...yeah...right" Ron answered glumly. Hermione looked up at Ron, and saw him sunken down in the chair; pale and strained. And feeling desparately like she wanted to cheer him up, she blurted out:
"Well, atleast Rita Skeeter won't be writing any terrible articles about it," said Hermione. "I've got her number..."
"When will she be allowed to write with that quill-thingy again?" asked Ron listlessly.
"Late June of next year, I suppose," answered Hermione. "Let's see...I caught her right after the Third task, which was June...er...twenty-forth? Yes, I remember...it was in the hospital wing..."
Ron suddenly looked up; an odd look pressed on his face, as though a formidable wondering had crossed his mind.
"Hermione..." said Ron slowly. "When did you catch that Skeeter woman exactly?"
"I told you," answered Hermione, with raised eyebrows. "It was right after..."
"I mean when in the hospital wing? Before Fudge came up?"
"Er..." muttered Hermione, straining her memory. "No, no....it was after Fudge. I remember because Dumbledore had already left..."
Ron looked horror-struck; his eyes met Hermione's, and she understood. The most horrible thing she had ever over looked ---not even thought about...
"Sirius..." whipered Hermione dramatically.
"He had already transformed into a..."
"Human! Oh Ron! Oh my goodness! We have to see Dumbledore!" said Hermione hysterically.
Without another word, Hermione and Ron stood up abruptly and headed out of the common room toward Dumbledore's office. However, they did not know that Dumbledore wasn't there.
~~~~
"Now, now Dumbledore" said Fudge uncertainly. "Surely there must be something you can tell us about Sirius Black..."
"I'm afraid I cannot" answered Dumbledore, in a slightly aggitated voice.
For hours, now, he had been questioned. Fudge had seemed curious about several things...but he always came back to Sirius.
"Dumbledore," said Fudge with a small smile. Fudge looked irritated, and tired...but nonetheless, determined. "You must know something if you were in contact with Black..."
"Minister," said Mundungus Fletcher in a harsh tone. "Dumbledore has given testimony, and now I think it would be wise to let him sleep for the rest of the night..."
"On the contrary, Mr. Fletcher," retorted Fudge. "I think you'll find that Dumbledore has given no direct answer ever since we've gotten here," said Fudge, gesturing around the room they were in.
The room was large, sqaure, and composed of mainly old-fashion furniture. Its carpet and walls were dark red, and it was lit dimly by a dying fire in the corner. Above the mantel piece on the wall (where the fire place lie undernieth) was a large self-portrait of Fudge with a woman; presumablely his wife--who was slightly porky with a face like a pug. Dumbledore sat in an uncomfortable wooden chair, Mundungus standing by his side, and Fudge sitting behind his over-large desk.
"Then I would think, sir," hissed Mundungus with a hint of sarcasm, "That this would be proof enough that Dumbledore knows nothing of any value to you!"
Dumbledore sat, and watched the men thoughtfully. Fudge exhaled hotly, and turned to Dumbledore.
"One last time, Professor Dumbledore. All I need to know is where Harry Potter is..." said Fudge, his face flushing red with anger.
"And one last time, Minister...I do not know where Harry is. If I did, I would give you all possible information so that he may be found as quickly as possible..." answered Dumbledore.
"Then you leave me no choice," said Fudge. His expression was grim, but there was something about the way his lips twitch slightly that gave Dumbledore a forbodden feeling.
"I'm afraid you will have to stay in lock- up at the Ministry for tonight. Tomorrow," said Fudge, his lips twitching again, "I'm afraid we must put you under a truth potion..."
~~~
"Moony, are you sure about this?" whipered Sirius several minutes later. "I mean to say...I know that I've eluded capture before, and I'm all too willing to help Dumbledore escape, but to go right into the ministry of magic building itself..."
"We have to get Dumbledore out..." whipered Moony. "He's the only one who can possiblely know where Harry is..."
"Yeah, though how '1971' is important, I'll never know." said Sirius, frowning.
"Think...what happened that year of importance?" hissed Moony.
Sirius strained his memory, but for some reason he couldn't explain, nothing about 1971 seemed important. This had surprised both Moony and Sirius, for there seemed to be something missing from their memories.Closer and closer they both crawled.
The Ministry of Magic building was located nearly 30 miles from Hogwarts. A tall, ancient building made of pale limestone; it was hidden in the heart of a forest-like area that had been cleared to make space. Though there was much room for parking, the long stone pathways that led to the doors of the ministry were paved with large bushes and trees; a large, round grass field separated these paths...and in the middle was a large, flowing fountain. Security at the ministry was very tight; which made it very difficult for anyone without authorization to get inside. But with a stroke of luck, and perhaps a little brilliance, Sirius and Moony hoped to sneak inside...somehow.
"Transform!" hissed Moony. "Someone could see you!"
Sirius transformed into Snuffles as they approached the Ministry entrance-- only a few yards away. They heard the security guard making an inquiry to someone else already at the door.
"...I'm sorry sir," the wizard was saying. "But without Ministry clearance, we can't let you inside..."
The Ministry wizard was cut off when the wild-looking man, wearing heavy lime robes and who had mounds of bushy brown hair and a mustach to rival Harry's Uncle Vernon's, started speaking fluently in a forein language. Unless Moony was much mistaken, the short man was speaking in rapid German:
"Ich bin ein hochrangiger Offizier des deutschen Ministeriums, und ich verlange, dass sie mich sofort hinein lassen, oder ich bin gezwungen eine Beschwerde gegen ihren Minister einzulegen..." the German man said curtly.
"But, sir..." said the Ministry wizard (Moony suspected he had no idea what the man had said), "I'm not authorized to let anyone in who doesn't...."
"Das werden wir ja sehen! Bitte teilen sie ihrem Minister fuer Zauberei mit, dass seine 'geheimen Geschaefte' der Gefahr unterliegen aufgedeckt zu werden, falls er weiterhin versagt ein funktionierendes Ministerium aufzubauen, um die Kommunikation innerhalb zu gewaehrleisten!"snapped the German man.
The wizard must have gotten the point, because he then sighed exasperately, and bowed the man inside. Moony siezed his chance; Snuffles at his heels.
"Excuse me, sir" said Moony with a huge, fake smile. "I have to see, er...a friend of mine. It's very urgent."
"Have you got any clearance?" asked the Ministry wizard heavily.
"Ah...yes, that...well, it's not on me...but I'm sure if you'll just let me inside..." said Moony with mock-confidence.
"I'm under strict orders not to let any one in who doesn't have proper Ministry clearance. I'm afraid you'll have to leave, or a Ministry official will have to vouch for you..."
"Vouch?" said Moony, a smile pressing his lips. "Ah, well...Amos Diggory can do that. See, I have this...er...mutt," he gestured to Sirius, who gave him a reprouchful loook. "And this mongrel must go infront of the board for...er, the regulation and control of...wild beasts." Moony had no idea what he was talking about.
"Amos?" said the Ministry wizard, and Moony saw him frown greatly. "Poor man...never been the same since his boy died. I'd hate to have to call him all the way down here...and that does look like an ugly, no-good mutt. I suppose I'll go with my instinct. You look trustworthy enough..." and with that, he bowed Moony and Snuffles in. Moony had only taken a few steps; feeling utterly releived when--
"Wait!" called the wizard. Moony turned around slowly. "You forgot to put a tether on that animal. Wouldn't want a furocious beast like that running amok around here..." said the wizard, throwing Moony a small rope. Moony bound Snuffles to the rope (Snuffles glowered at him) and they were off.
The Ministry of Magic was a very nice, and very business-like place to be. It was also very large, once you got inside; though not nearly as big as Hogwarts. The many desks, and gossipping ministry members somehow reminded Moony of a dentist's office. the carpet that covered every inch of the floor was a light blue, and the walls were completely white. There were no pictures or portraits, but there were several plaque's and trophies around the walls. There were even tables and chairs with out-of-date magazines that resembled waiting rooms. But Moony was distacted by only one thought: get to Dumbledore.
A sign caught his eye, "Ministry information". Moony walked over to the desk where a large-bottomed woman sat behind. Her robes were a flashy purple, and her big red hair was styled in a "bee-hive". Her long, green fingernails were drumming on the desk, and she looked very odd with thick yellow glasses.
Moony had barely opened his mouth when the woman said, in an oddly patranizing voice: "What do you need, sir?"
"To know where Albus D...." started Moony.
"Remus Lupin?" came a man's voice. Moony turned and saw, standing right behind him...
"Arthur Weasley" Moony said, smiling, and walking away from the witch.
"I'm surprised to see you here," said Mr. Weasley, as he shook Moony's hand. "and this is..." he said, looking at Snuffles.
"Yes," answered Moony swiftly.
"Well, can I help you with anything?" asked Mr. Weasley.
"Perhaps...do you know where Dumbledore is?" Moony asked tentively.
"Hmmm," murmured Mr. Weasley. "I had heard....but I didn't dare think..." he paused. "Well, if he's anywhere, I'd bet he was in Fudge's office. But.." said Mr. Weasley, looking at his watch. "I'm sure he's gone home now...it's nearly midnight. Have you checked Hogwarts..."
"Dumbledore can't be there," said Moony, frowning. "He would have contacted us about Harry"....at this, Mr. Weasley looked very uncomfortable. Sirius looked ruffled that he didn't have anything to do with the conversation.
"Well, follow me to my office. Fudge went home about an hour ago. And if Dumbledore's not at Hogwarts...he's in lock-up.." said Mr. Weasley grimly.
"Lock-up?" said Moony breathlessly. Mr. Weasley nodded.
They had no sooner reached Mr. Weasley's shabby office (A small dusty room, hardly bigger than a closet with tons of books piled on the bookshelves and floor, and two cramped desks right next to each other with a few rolls of parchment on top) when Mr. Weasley turned toward Moony, and now a transformed Sirius.
"What do we need to do to get to Dumbledore?" Sirius stated the second he closed the door.
"Fudge'll have him locked-up tight. Doesn't want any of the Ministry, or Order members interferring and letting Dumbledore go..." said Mr. Weasley, but he was stopped abruptely short. Moony let out an ear-splitting scream, and was doubled-over in pain; clutching his stomach.
"Moony?!" said Sirius in alarm. "W-what's wrong?"
"He's calling me..." hissed Moony through tear-filled eyes; sweat pouring down his face.
"Who?..." Mr. Weasley began.
"Voldemort" puffed Moony. "Dumbledore warned me against this..." he was taking huge, fast breaths.
"Slytherin..." continued Moony as though each word were causing him every bit of strength he had. "Slytherin created werewolves....with...a...book" And with that, Moony passed out. Though still breathing hard, Sirius saw his jaw become rigid; his fingernails sharpen; his hair grow longer. And Sirius knew what was coming.
"What happened? What's wrong with him?" asked Mr.Weasley in a shrill tone.
"He's becoming a werewolf" said Sirius standing up and pulling Moony's wand out of his pocket. "We have to tie him up...or he'll....he will..."
Mr. Weasley didn't need Sirius to finish, he knew what Sirius was trying to say. Moony began growling viciously.
"Moony!" said Sirius, as Mr. Weasley began binding Moony tightly with ropes. "Come on Moony, don't give up! Don't heel to Voldemort's call. Moony! Moony!.."
~~~ The Past ~~~
"Moony!" yelled James and Sirius, as Pettigrew edged away. Harry's eyes were torn sharply away from Voldemort's snake-like face, and he saw that the marauders were bound by iron cuffs to a wall. Moony was already half- way into turning into a full werewolf.
"See what my ancestor did" whispered Voldemort softly. "See what I will be able to do one day..."
"STOP IT!" James shouted at Voldemort.
Harry, himself, was bound tightly, and gagged against the freezing herth. Harry stared at Voldemort. Never before had so much hatred run through his viens. Every ounce of blood that coursed through Harry was driven with the wild urge to kill Voldemort. And very vaguely was Harry aware that there was something different about the Voldemort Harry knew. Yet, the scarlet eyes were the same; the slits for a nose; the long, boney fingers were all too recognizeable. And it wouldn't be until much later that Harry would realize that this Voldemort, the past Voldemort, was not whiter than a skull. Though still unusually pale; Past-Voldemort retained am almost human skin-tone.
Voldemort turned his horrible eyes onto James, and he gave a high, merciless laugh.
"Ah...so you must be James Potter," said Voldemort, a horrible smile curling his lipless face. "I am to assume Lord Fate was correct. You and your son are, indeed, very much alike; foolish and arrogant."
James glared at him with the utmost loathing. It was beyond hate. However, James didn't seem to care much for his so-called, "son"....he was preoccupied with one of his best friends, who was suffering endless agony for having to transform more slowly than ever before.
"Who the hell do you think you are?!" bellowed Sirius, beside James. Sirius looked more frightened than Harry had ever seen him.
"And this must be Mr. Black. Fate informs me that you have done much to help my cause," said Voldemort, his smile widening. "Killing your best friend and his wife to save yourself; letting your Godson spend his childhood surrounded by hate and humiliation. I must congradulate you, Mr. Black...you've done more harm than I could have ever have expected from you"
"Go to Hell!" hissed Sirius.
"I've been there, thank you. I found it spiffing good fun", answered Voldemort. And his eyes fell upon Pettigrew.
"And, of course, Wormtail. None of this," said Voldemort, gesturing around them (Only then did Harry take in the almost pitch-black darkness of a cold, drafty dungeon. Had it not been for their heavy breathing; he would never have guessed that a crowd of deatheaters encircled them.) "would have been possible if it had not been for your cowardness. Your hunger for power. Let Wormtail go...I have a nice surprise for him..." hissed Voldemort. A soft slithering sound seemed to be coming from somewhere close by; a baselisk.
A few deatheaters approuched Wormtail, and cut him loose. Wormtail scuttled away from them, but Voldemort pointed his wand at Wormtail, and Pettigrew was thrown into the closest group of DeathEaters. Panting, Peter got gingerly to his feet; silent tears pouring down his face.
"Now, Harry...see how much pain you cause your father?" hissed Voldemort.
"Father" breathed James, as he grabbed ahold of Moony's paw; Moony's body was shaking violently. Voldemort only smiled his horrific smile, and continued.
"I've been looking into your mind, Harry Potter. I've seen what you can't even remember. Foretold what hasn't even happened in your own time yet. I killed your mother needlessly, I admit, when you were only an infant. True to my word, she needn't have died. Which is why you do not see her company with us today," said Voldemort in such a quiet voice, it was almost impossible to hear.
"And yet, there is a reason why I have recieved word of the future; to prevent it. However", hissed Voldemort, his eyes gleaming as they watched Harry. "before I explain to you exactly how much history surrounds us, I'd like to get to business. I find that in the future, I become slightly lazy to get the work done. I will present you with three options, Harry Potter. And you may choose which ever one you want."
Harry glared at him. James clutched Moony's paw even harder. Sirius seemed too scared for rational thought, but stuck close by James's side in case he needed to take drastic action to save them. And Wormtail stood, more scared then he ever had been. And vaguely confused as to why he was standing freely, while everyone else remained bounded.
"Option number one. I kill you, now...in the past, before you're worthless mother gave you your useful protection. Your second option, is to watch your father die...right here in this room; you will, of course, never exist. And lastly," said Voldemort, his eyes gleaming hungrily. "You can kill Pettirgrew. Join my side...and let your parents live on...in your past and present."
Pettigrew had let out a horrified cry at this last suggestion.
James and Sirius merely stared from Harry to Voldemort. Niether of them knew why they were there, or why Harry would want to kill Pettigrew. But James knew one thing; he'd die before he'd let anyone harm any of his friends...and that most certainly included Peter. Harry's eyes grew big. He had already decided.
"Take the cloth out of his mouth" spat Voldemort to the DeathEater closest Harry.
"Yes, Master" said a familiar voice, in clipped tones. And the DeathEater strode over, and yanked the cloth painfully from Harry's mouth.
"Have you decided already?" hissed Voldemort, his eyes narrowing.
Harry looked into those horrible eyes.
Two sides seemed to be pulling at him. One remembered what Dumbledore had told him about being the heir of Gryffindor; although Harry wasn't entirely sure if this really meant anything....he was hesitant to sacrifice other lives to save his own. On the other hand, his parents had willingly given their lives for him. All that had mattered was that Harry lived. And Harry would still be alive...in the past. Finally, Harry made his decision.
"I will join your side" Harry answered resolutely.
(A/N: Ha Ha Ha! So what did you think? Oh, I really hope you enjoyed this chapter. I know it wasn't exactly action packed....but still, it was eventful. I really hope to have the next chapter out as quickly as possible! Thank you so much for reading this! A little hint: there is a secret message in the German dialogue that you might want to try and translate. And the "familiar voice" that takes the rag out of Harry's voice is *very* important also. See what character was introduced in the HP books speaking, 'in clipped tones'. *grins* Now, it took 2 1/2 to type this, so PLEASE REVIEW! Thanks! Love ya! Toodles! *Kara*)
Disclaimer: I own nothing, but the plot in this story. I'm certain J.K's "Order of the Phoenix" will be much better than this...but hopefully you'll enjoy this until then. :)
Review: As it's been so long since you've last read the story, here is a little background info to remind you:
** Present**
Ron is walking back from a late night quidditch practice 2 days before the game.
Moony has just informed Sirius that he knows *when* Harry is.
Dumbledore is being questioned by the Ministry.
And Hogwarts, for the most part, is in misery over Harry's disapperance.
~~ Past~~
The maurders were in Honeydukes buying Harry a Christmas present, when Harry is captured by Voldemort.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* An Evil Hero *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
~~ The Present ~~
Ron retuned to Gryffindor tower early in the evening to find Hermione huddled over a piece of parchment; looking pensieve about what to write.
"What're you doing homework for?" asked Ron dully.
"It's a letter to Krum," murmured Hermione vaguely. Ron felt a pang of jealousy, but said nothing. Hermione sighed.
"I just don't know, Ron" said Hermione, frowning deeply. "I mean...I just can't believe Harry is--is..." she trailed off.
Ron said nothing. They sat there for a moment in silence, when Ron was struck with a thought.
"D'you reckon Dumbledore might know anything?" Ron burst out. "I mean, all he said was that no one had seen Harry since....you know..."
"I hope so," answered Hermione.
"Maybe we should go ask him about it..."
"I doubt he would tell us even if he did know something, Ron" said Hermione grimly. "If he didn't tell us yesterday, what makes you think he'll tell us now?"
"Oh...yeah...right" Ron answered glumly. Hermione looked up at Ron, and saw him sunken down in the chair; pale and strained. And feeling desparately like she wanted to cheer him up, she blurted out:
"Well, atleast Rita Skeeter won't be writing any terrible articles about it," said Hermione. "I've got her number..."
"When will she be allowed to write with that quill-thingy again?" asked Ron listlessly.
"Late June of next year, I suppose," answered Hermione. "Let's see...I caught her right after the Third task, which was June...er...twenty-forth? Yes, I remember...it was in the hospital wing..."
Ron suddenly looked up; an odd look pressed on his face, as though a formidable wondering had crossed his mind.
"Hermione..." said Ron slowly. "When did you catch that Skeeter woman exactly?"
"I told you," answered Hermione, with raised eyebrows. "It was right after..."
"I mean when in the hospital wing? Before Fudge came up?"
"Er..." muttered Hermione, straining her memory. "No, no....it was after Fudge. I remember because Dumbledore had already left..."
Ron looked horror-struck; his eyes met Hermione's, and she understood. The most horrible thing she had ever over looked ---not even thought about...
"Sirius..." whipered Hermione dramatically.
"He had already transformed into a..."
"Human! Oh Ron! Oh my goodness! We have to see Dumbledore!" said Hermione hysterically.
Without another word, Hermione and Ron stood up abruptly and headed out of the common room toward Dumbledore's office. However, they did not know that Dumbledore wasn't there.
~~~~
"Now, now Dumbledore" said Fudge uncertainly. "Surely there must be something you can tell us about Sirius Black..."
"I'm afraid I cannot" answered Dumbledore, in a slightly aggitated voice.
For hours, now, he had been questioned. Fudge had seemed curious about several things...but he always came back to Sirius.
"Dumbledore," said Fudge with a small smile. Fudge looked irritated, and tired...but nonetheless, determined. "You must know something if you were in contact with Black..."
"Minister," said Mundungus Fletcher in a harsh tone. "Dumbledore has given testimony, and now I think it would be wise to let him sleep for the rest of the night..."
"On the contrary, Mr. Fletcher," retorted Fudge. "I think you'll find that Dumbledore has given no direct answer ever since we've gotten here," said Fudge, gesturing around the room they were in.
The room was large, sqaure, and composed of mainly old-fashion furniture. Its carpet and walls were dark red, and it was lit dimly by a dying fire in the corner. Above the mantel piece on the wall (where the fire place lie undernieth) was a large self-portrait of Fudge with a woman; presumablely his wife--who was slightly porky with a face like a pug. Dumbledore sat in an uncomfortable wooden chair, Mundungus standing by his side, and Fudge sitting behind his over-large desk.
"Then I would think, sir," hissed Mundungus with a hint of sarcasm, "That this would be proof enough that Dumbledore knows nothing of any value to you!"
Dumbledore sat, and watched the men thoughtfully. Fudge exhaled hotly, and turned to Dumbledore.
"One last time, Professor Dumbledore. All I need to know is where Harry Potter is..." said Fudge, his face flushing red with anger.
"And one last time, Minister...I do not know where Harry is. If I did, I would give you all possible information so that he may be found as quickly as possible..." answered Dumbledore.
"Then you leave me no choice," said Fudge. His expression was grim, but there was something about the way his lips twitch slightly that gave Dumbledore a forbodden feeling.
"I'm afraid you will have to stay in lock- up at the Ministry for tonight. Tomorrow," said Fudge, his lips twitching again, "I'm afraid we must put you under a truth potion..."
~~~
"Moony, are you sure about this?" whipered Sirius several minutes later. "I mean to say...I know that I've eluded capture before, and I'm all too willing to help Dumbledore escape, but to go right into the ministry of magic building itself..."
"We have to get Dumbledore out..." whipered Moony. "He's the only one who can possiblely know where Harry is..."
"Yeah, though how '1971' is important, I'll never know." said Sirius, frowning.
"Think...what happened that year of importance?" hissed Moony.
Sirius strained his memory, but for some reason he couldn't explain, nothing about 1971 seemed important. This had surprised both Moony and Sirius, for there seemed to be something missing from their memories.Closer and closer they both crawled.
The Ministry of Magic building was located nearly 30 miles from Hogwarts. A tall, ancient building made of pale limestone; it was hidden in the heart of a forest-like area that had been cleared to make space. Though there was much room for parking, the long stone pathways that led to the doors of the ministry were paved with large bushes and trees; a large, round grass field separated these paths...and in the middle was a large, flowing fountain. Security at the ministry was very tight; which made it very difficult for anyone without authorization to get inside. But with a stroke of luck, and perhaps a little brilliance, Sirius and Moony hoped to sneak inside...somehow.
"Transform!" hissed Moony. "Someone could see you!"
Sirius transformed into Snuffles as they approached the Ministry entrance-- only a few yards away. They heard the security guard making an inquiry to someone else already at the door.
"...I'm sorry sir," the wizard was saying. "But without Ministry clearance, we can't let you inside..."
The Ministry wizard was cut off when the wild-looking man, wearing heavy lime robes and who had mounds of bushy brown hair and a mustach to rival Harry's Uncle Vernon's, started speaking fluently in a forein language. Unless Moony was much mistaken, the short man was speaking in rapid German:
"Ich bin ein hochrangiger Offizier des deutschen Ministeriums, und ich verlange, dass sie mich sofort hinein lassen, oder ich bin gezwungen eine Beschwerde gegen ihren Minister einzulegen..." the German man said curtly.
"But, sir..." said the Ministry wizard (Moony suspected he had no idea what the man had said), "I'm not authorized to let anyone in who doesn't...."
"Das werden wir ja sehen! Bitte teilen sie ihrem Minister fuer Zauberei mit, dass seine 'geheimen Geschaefte' der Gefahr unterliegen aufgedeckt zu werden, falls er weiterhin versagt ein funktionierendes Ministerium aufzubauen, um die Kommunikation innerhalb zu gewaehrleisten!"snapped the German man.
The wizard must have gotten the point, because he then sighed exasperately, and bowed the man inside. Moony siezed his chance; Snuffles at his heels.
"Excuse me, sir" said Moony with a huge, fake smile. "I have to see, er...a friend of mine. It's very urgent."
"Have you got any clearance?" asked the Ministry wizard heavily.
"Ah...yes, that...well, it's not on me...but I'm sure if you'll just let me inside..." said Moony with mock-confidence.
"I'm under strict orders not to let any one in who doesn't have proper Ministry clearance. I'm afraid you'll have to leave, or a Ministry official will have to vouch for you..."
"Vouch?" said Moony, a smile pressing his lips. "Ah, well...Amos Diggory can do that. See, I have this...er...mutt," he gestured to Sirius, who gave him a reprouchful loook. "And this mongrel must go infront of the board for...er, the regulation and control of...wild beasts." Moony had no idea what he was talking about.
"Amos?" said the Ministry wizard, and Moony saw him frown greatly. "Poor man...never been the same since his boy died. I'd hate to have to call him all the way down here...and that does look like an ugly, no-good mutt. I suppose I'll go with my instinct. You look trustworthy enough..." and with that, he bowed Moony and Snuffles in. Moony had only taken a few steps; feeling utterly releived when--
"Wait!" called the wizard. Moony turned around slowly. "You forgot to put a tether on that animal. Wouldn't want a furocious beast like that running amok around here..." said the wizard, throwing Moony a small rope. Moony bound Snuffles to the rope (Snuffles glowered at him) and they were off.
The Ministry of Magic was a very nice, and very business-like place to be. It was also very large, once you got inside; though not nearly as big as Hogwarts. The many desks, and gossipping ministry members somehow reminded Moony of a dentist's office. the carpet that covered every inch of the floor was a light blue, and the walls were completely white. There were no pictures or portraits, but there were several plaque's and trophies around the walls. There were even tables and chairs with out-of-date magazines that resembled waiting rooms. But Moony was distacted by only one thought: get to Dumbledore.
A sign caught his eye, "Ministry information". Moony walked over to the desk where a large-bottomed woman sat behind. Her robes were a flashy purple, and her big red hair was styled in a "bee-hive". Her long, green fingernails were drumming on the desk, and she looked very odd with thick yellow glasses.
Moony had barely opened his mouth when the woman said, in an oddly patranizing voice: "What do you need, sir?"
"To know where Albus D...." started Moony.
"Remus Lupin?" came a man's voice. Moony turned and saw, standing right behind him...
"Arthur Weasley" Moony said, smiling, and walking away from the witch.
"I'm surprised to see you here," said Mr. Weasley, as he shook Moony's hand. "and this is..." he said, looking at Snuffles.
"Yes," answered Moony swiftly.
"Well, can I help you with anything?" asked Mr. Weasley.
"Perhaps...do you know where Dumbledore is?" Moony asked tentively.
"Hmmm," murmured Mr. Weasley. "I had heard....but I didn't dare think..." he paused. "Well, if he's anywhere, I'd bet he was in Fudge's office. But.." said Mr. Weasley, looking at his watch. "I'm sure he's gone home now...it's nearly midnight. Have you checked Hogwarts..."
"Dumbledore can't be there," said Moony, frowning. "He would have contacted us about Harry"....at this, Mr. Weasley looked very uncomfortable. Sirius looked ruffled that he didn't have anything to do with the conversation.
"Well, follow me to my office. Fudge went home about an hour ago. And if Dumbledore's not at Hogwarts...he's in lock-up.." said Mr. Weasley grimly.
"Lock-up?" said Moony breathlessly. Mr. Weasley nodded.
They had no sooner reached Mr. Weasley's shabby office (A small dusty room, hardly bigger than a closet with tons of books piled on the bookshelves and floor, and two cramped desks right next to each other with a few rolls of parchment on top) when Mr. Weasley turned toward Moony, and now a transformed Sirius.
"What do we need to do to get to Dumbledore?" Sirius stated the second he closed the door.
"Fudge'll have him locked-up tight. Doesn't want any of the Ministry, or Order members interferring and letting Dumbledore go..." said Mr. Weasley, but he was stopped abruptely short. Moony let out an ear-splitting scream, and was doubled-over in pain; clutching his stomach.
"Moony?!" said Sirius in alarm. "W-what's wrong?"
"He's calling me..." hissed Moony through tear-filled eyes; sweat pouring down his face.
"Who?..." Mr. Weasley began.
"Voldemort" puffed Moony. "Dumbledore warned me against this..." he was taking huge, fast breaths.
"Slytherin..." continued Moony as though each word were causing him every bit of strength he had. "Slytherin created werewolves....with...a...book" And with that, Moony passed out. Though still breathing hard, Sirius saw his jaw become rigid; his fingernails sharpen; his hair grow longer. And Sirius knew what was coming.
"What happened? What's wrong with him?" asked Mr.Weasley in a shrill tone.
"He's becoming a werewolf" said Sirius standing up and pulling Moony's wand out of his pocket. "We have to tie him up...or he'll....he will..."
Mr. Weasley didn't need Sirius to finish, he knew what Sirius was trying to say. Moony began growling viciously.
"Moony!" said Sirius, as Mr. Weasley began binding Moony tightly with ropes. "Come on Moony, don't give up! Don't heel to Voldemort's call. Moony! Moony!.."
~~~ The Past ~~~
"Moony!" yelled James and Sirius, as Pettigrew edged away. Harry's eyes were torn sharply away from Voldemort's snake-like face, and he saw that the marauders were bound by iron cuffs to a wall. Moony was already half- way into turning into a full werewolf.
"See what my ancestor did" whispered Voldemort softly. "See what I will be able to do one day..."
"STOP IT!" James shouted at Voldemort.
Harry, himself, was bound tightly, and gagged against the freezing herth. Harry stared at Voldemort. Never before had so much hatred run through his viens. Every ounce of blood that coursed through Harry was driven with the wild urge to kill Voldemort. And very vaguely was Harry aware that there was something different about the Voldemort Harry knew. Yet, the scarlet eyes were the same; the slits for a nose; the long, boney fingers were all too recognizeable. And it wouldn't be until much later that Harry would realize that this Voldemort, the past Voldemort, was not whiter than a skull. Though still unusually pale; Past-Voldemort retained am almost human skin-tone.
Voldemort turned his horrible eyes onto James, and he gave a high, merciless laugh.
"Ah...so you must be James Potter," said Voldemort, a horrible smile curling his lipless face. "I am to assume Lord Fate was correct. You and your son are, indeed, very much alike; foolish and arrogant."
James glared at him with the utmost loathing. It was beyond hate. However, James didn't seem to care much for his so-called, "son"....he was preoccupied with one of his best friends, who was suffering endless agony for having to transform more slowly than ever before.
"Who the hell do you think you are?!" bellowed Sirius, beside James. Sirius looked more frightened than Harry had ever seen him.
"And this must be Mr. Black. Fate informs me that you have done much to help my cause," said Voldemort, his smile widening. "Killing your best friend and his wife to save yourself; letting your Godson spend his childhood surrounded by hate and humiliation. I must congradulate you, Mr. Black...you've done more harm than I could have ever have expected from you"
"Go to Hell!" hissed Sirius.
"I've been there, thank you. I found it spiffing good fun", answered Voldemort. And his eyes fell upon Pettigrew.
"And, of course, Wormtail. None of this," said Voldemort, gesturing around them (Only then did Harry take in the almost pitch-black darkness of a cold, drafty dungeon. Had it not been for their heavy breathing; he would never have guessed that a crowd of deatheaters encircled them.) "would have been possible if it had not been for your cowardness. Your hunger for power. Let Wormtail go...I have a nice surprise for him..." hissed Voldemort. A soft slithering sound seemed to be coming from somewhere close by; a baselisk.
A few deatheaters approuched Wormtail, and cut him loose. Wormtail scuttled away from them, but Voldemort pointed his wand at Wormtail, and Pettigrew was thrown into the closest group of DeathEaters. Panting, Peter got gingerly to his feet; silent tears pouring down his face.
"Now, Harry...see how much pain you cause your father?" hissed Voldemort.
"Father" breathed James, as he grabbed ahold of Moony's paw; Moony's body was shaking violently. Voldemort only smiled his horrific smile, and continued.
"I've been looking into your mind, Harry Potter. I've seen what you can't even remember. Foretold what hasn't even happened in your own time yet. I killed your mother needlessly, I admit, when you were only an infant. True to my word, she needn't have died. Which is why you do not see her company with us today," said Voldemort in such a quiet voice, it was almost impossible to hear.
"And yet, there is a reason why I have recieved word of the future; to prevent it. However", hissed Voldemort, his eyes gleaming as they watched Harry. "before I explain to you exactly how much history surrounds us, I'd like to get to business. I find that in the future, I become slightly lazy to get the work done. I will present you with three options, Harry Potter. And you may choose which ever one you want."
Harry glared at him. James clutched Moony's paw even harder. Sirius seemed too scared for rational thought, but stuck close by James's side in case he needed to take drastic action to save them. And Wormtail stood, more scared then he ever had been. And vaguely confused as to why he was standing freely, while everyone else remained bounded.
"Option number one. I kill you, now...in the past, before you're worthless mother gave you your useful protection. Your second option, is to watch your father die...right here in this room; you will, of course, never exist. And lastly," said Voldemort, his eyes gleaming hungrily. "You can kill Pettirgrew. Join my side...and let your parents live on...in your past and present."
Pettigrew had let out a horrified cry at this last suggestion.
James and Sirius merely stared from Harry to Voldemort. Niether of them knew why they were there, or why Harry would want to kill Pettigrew. But James knew one thing; he'd die before he'd let anyone harm any of his friends...and that most certainly included Peter. Harry's eyes grew big. He had already decided.
"Take the cloth out of his mouth" spat Voldemort to the DeathEater closest Harry.
"Yes, Master" said a familiar voice, in clipped tones. And the DeathEater strode over, and yanked the cloth painfully from Harry's mouth.
"Have you decided already?" hissed Voldemort, his eyes narrowing.
Harry looked into those horrible eyes.
Two sides seemed to be pulling at him. One remembered what Dumbledore had told him about being the heir of Gryffindor; although Harry wasn't entirely sure if this really meant anything....he was hesitant to sacrifice other lives to save his own. On the other hand, his parents had willingly given their lives for him. All that had mattered was that Harry lived. And Harry would still be alive...in the past. Finally, Harry made his decision.
"I will join your side" Harry answered resolutely.
(A/N: Ha Ha Ha! So what did you think? Oh, I really hope you enjoyed this chapter. I know it wasn't exactly action packed....but still, it was eventful. I really hope to have the next chapter out as quickly as possible! Thank you so much for reading this! A little hint: there is a secret message in the German dialogue that you might want to try and translate. And the "familiar voice" that takes the rag out of Harry's voice is *very* important also. See what character was introduced in the HP books speaking, 'in clipped tones'. *grins* Now, it took 2 1/2 to type this, so PLEASE REVIEW! Thanks! Love ya! Toodles! *Kara*)