A.N. Hello, hello, hello, chapter 3 is up!! Enjoy!!!
Disclaimer: I own nothing. J.K. Rowling owns it all. All I own is a few characters.
Thanks to my editor, Alicia!! You're awesome (and we're crazy!!) Thanks!
Chapter 3: The Trial of Dolores Umbridge
"Hermes?" Ginny asked trembling as she removed the letter.
Dearest family,
I have written to apologize for my behavior throughout this past year, I am very sorry for the way I have acted. I completely believe that You-know-who has come back and that Harry Potter was correct. Please forgive me. However, I must say that I am in full support of Dolores Umbridge and will be defending her at her trial. Please do not testify against her as she meant no harm. She had been placed under the Imperius curse by Lucius Malfoy, along with our dear Minister. So, it would please me if you would attend her trial and testify in her favor. Once again, I apologize for all the pain I have caused, and I fully support the tasks you have undertaken to defeat You-know-who. Love,
Percy
"I don't believe it," whispered Ginny, "I don't believe it, what a liar! Imperius curse, right, she wasn't under no Imperius curse."
"You're right Ginny," Mr. Weasley backed her up, "You're absolutely right."
"Trying to cover up for Fudge, huh?" Charlie stated, "Of course, all those decree's Umbridge devised were signed by Fudge, so therefore, he's soley responsible. Not to mention the fact that he placed her at Hogwarts, lying even more of the blame on her actions on him. If he was under Imperius, of course, it was the work of Voldemort, and therefore, no fault of his own. Plus, he wouldn't want to lose a good ministry official!"
"He did apologize," Mrs. Weasley said.
"What a way to show he's sorry," Ron muttered. "Lying out straight to us,"
"We should still welcome him back, he's been gone so long!" Mrs. Weasley urged.
"I'm not speaking to him, when he's lying like that. He still cares more about the Ministry than us!" Ron countered.
"Me neither," Ginny said with disgust.
Mrs. Weasley looked at her husband who shrugged, she sighed. "Children, go up to bed." Harry, Ron, and Ginny reluctantly stood up. The other children stayed seated.
"Boys, please?" Mr. Weasley asked, looking at the remaining four Weasley children.
"Okay," Fred stood up, "We've got work tomorrow anyway."
"We'll leave too," Tonks said motioning to Moody and Lupin as well.
Mrs. Weasley nodded, "Thank you."
They all stood up and left. Harry and Ron were following the rest upstairs when Fred doubled back and whispered to Harry, "We're coming to your room, George and I, along with Ginny."
Harry nodded, noticing George whispering to Ginny. Harry opened the bedroom door and stepped in. It was just as he remembered it, his room.
George ushered the rest in and closed the door.
"What a joke!" Ginny cried, clearly still very angry about the letter, "What. a. joke. I can't believe he'd write that! He knows perfectly well that that's not true and he expects us to welcome him back and believe him!"
"Doesn't surprise me," said Ron seriously, "the way he's been acting."
Harry shook his head, "Well, I'm still testifying against Umbridge, no matter what he says."
"Me too," the four Weasleys responded simultaneously.
The silence that followed was a bit uncomfortable. "So." Harry began trying to change the subject and break the silence, "Have you joined the Order?" He asked, nodding to Fred and George.
"We've tried," Fred said, "But we're only partial members."
"How is that?" asked Harry.
"Well, they tell us everything that's going on, and let us give ideas, but we don't get to do any of the dirty work you could say." George answered.
"So you are let into the secret meetings then?" Harry questioned.
"Most of them, once in awhile they won't let us in, but we have access to most meetings." Fred said.
"It is pretty cool." George finished.
"So you are pretty much members, but can't do anything to help." Harry stated, trying to comprehend their position.
"Yeah, I guess you could say that," Fred agreed.
"Wicked," said Harry.
"I can't wait until I can join," Ron sighed.
"Same here," said Harry, "I'm so ready and I don't get why Dumbledore won't let me, with the Pro." He broke off. They didn't know about the Prophecy yet. He didn't even know if he would tell them. If so, it would only be Ron and Hermione, definitely not the rest.
"The what?" Ron asked.
"N-nothing," Harry concluded, "Nothing."
They all looked at him suspiciously, but no one pressed on further.
Ginny yawned, "I'm tired, g'night all, I'm going to bed."
"G'night Ginny," Ron said off-handedly.
"G'night," everyone else echoed.
Ginny went to the door and opened it. "And no letters to Dean!" Ron shouted after her.
Ginny stopped, turned around, and rolled her eyes, "I wasn't going too, but if I was, do you think I'd listen to you?"
"Whatever," Ron mumbled. With that Ginny left the room and closed the door. Everyone remained silent until they heard her door shut from the floor above.
"Right," George said, "Well, me and Fred better head out too, early morning tomorrow!"
"Yup," continued George, "Business is booming and lines have been queuing up continuously, almost everyday!"
"That's excellent," Harry exclaimed.
"Sure is," said Fred, puffing his chest out, "We've made loads within the few months we've been out, especially in the summer, 'cus all the Hogwarts students are out and stocking up!"
"And mum said we would get nowhere with this!" George guffawed.
And with that, they both apparated out of the room.
Ron looked at Harry, "Well, I suppose we should go to sleep soon too, I'm glad to see your doing better now."
Harry nodded, "Yeah, thanks a lot mate. I really am feeling better. It is hard though, seeing all of Sirius' stuff."
Ron nodded, "It must be hard, I mean, I even feel sad about it, and I wasn't nearly as close to him as you were." Ron said.
Harry nodded, "Well, I suppose I'll get used to it, someday. Lupin's helping a lot too, as he was one of S-Sirius' best friends," He stuttered, feeling a lump in his throat again.
Suddenly a knock came at the door.
"Come in," Harry called.
The door opened and Lupin walked in.
"Harry, remember, we're going to start Occlumency tomorrow. How about 8 o'clock tomorrow night?" He asked.
"All right then," Harry agreed.
Lupin smiled, "Great, don't worry Harry, it will be a lot easier for you without Snape teaching it."
A burning hate enveloped Harry once more, as it had numerous times before at the end of the last school year. There was no way Harry would forgive Snape. Everytime he heard the name, he was reminded again of how awful Snape was. How was he going to endure another 2 years of him?
Harry shook his head, clearing his thoughts of Snape and smiled at Lupin, "I sure hope so."
"Well, g'night then Harry,"
"G'night," Harry responded. Lupin shut the door.
Ron, clearly startled, looked at Harry, "More Occlumency?"
Harry nodded.
"Boy I feel sorry for you," Ron said sincerely. "By the way, did you get the homework list for next year?"
"Yeah," Harry sighed, "Can you believe how much summer work we have?"
Ron shook his head, "You're taking Charms, Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Care of Magical Creatures and what else?"
"Herbology and Potions," replied Harry wrinkling his nose.
"Ooh, not cool," Ron said, "I'm taking the same, minus the Potions."
Ron was going to go into the Ministry after school. He had high enough marks to be an Auror, but it hadn't been at the top of his list anyways.
"Lucky you," He said to Ron.
"Yeah," Ron sighed, changing into his pajama's. "Well, I'm tired, g'night."
"G'night," Harry replied, quickly changing into his pajama's and putting out the lamp.
Over the next few days, Harry was very busy. He worked on homework, talked to Ron, and began Occlumency. Of course there was always time to dwell on Sirius too, which Harry didn't exactly like doing. They had decided to leave Sirius' room as it was for that moment, of which Harry was extremely glad because it would have surely caused him to cry if they had emptied it. Occlumency began better than Harry expected. The first lesson he walked into the study to meet Lupin.
"Hello Harry," Lupin had immediately greeted him.
Harry smiled, "Hello."
"Now, you already know the basics, correct?"
Harry nodded.
"Right then, we'll start slow, I'll give you some time to clear your mind, and empty yourself of emotion." Lupin directed.
Harry nodded once more and began to try to empty his mind, which, to say the least, is not an easy task for anyone to do.
"Legilimens," Lupin said.
Suddenly Harry could remember his first day of Muggle school and Dudley already bullying him, his eighth birthday and opening a pair of moldy socks, meeting Ron for the first time, the dementors bearing down on him and Sirius and the others. Sirius. Sirius. "Sirius!" Harry called and then opened his eyes to find himself on the floor, tears rolling down his face.
"Oh Harry, I'm so sorry," Lupin said coming over to comfort him, "I'm so sorry, do you want to stop for the night?"
Harry shook his head vigorously, "No, I'm doing this for Sirius, it's important that I do, if I had been able to do it before he died, then he'd still be alive." He determinedly stood up determinedly and began preparing himself.
Once again Lupin shouted Legilimens, once again Harry failed. After about ten tries, exhausted, Harry sat down in a chair frustrated. "It's no use, I'm never going to be able to do it."
Lupin smiling down on him replied, "Of course you will Harry, by the end of the summer, you will master Occlumency. I know you can do it. Now, I do think that's enough for one night. You go to bed and remember to try to clear you mind of emotion before you fall asleep. We'll meet again in two days at 8 o'clock."
And so they had continued to meet, a few times a week, week after week. Harry seemed to think he wasn't getting any better, but Lupin said he was improving every time. Harry just hoped he could get better at it by the end of the summer.
One evening, after numerous tries, Harry flopped down and muttered, "I quit."
"You don't really mean that, do you Harry?" Lupin whispered.
"I sure as mean it as sure as I'm alive." Harry said, getting up to leave.
"Harry, you will not leave this room until I say so," Lupin said, blocking the door.
"You can't make me sit around in here and work my butt off, to learn some stupid magic! You weren't like this when you taught me the Patronus charm in my 3rd year! You said I didn't have to learn it if I didn't want too, isn't this the same kind of thing?" Harry challenged.
The look on Lupin's face told Harry he was wrong as he shrunk back from Lupin, "Harry, that was then, this is now. You must learn Occlumency, it is vital for your survival and ours."
"So, it's all about you, huh?" Harry asked angrily. "I'm doing this for your safety!"
"Harry, that's not what I mean, and you know that perfectly well!" Lupin shouted. "Now, stop it! You will stay in here, until I say you can go."
Harry sat down dejectedly. He knew Lupin was right, "I'm sorry," Harry mumbled.
"Apology accepted. Now I do believe it is time to wrap up, clear your thought and emotions before going to bed. We'll meet in two days." Lupin said calmly.
Harry sauntered out of the room and up to bed.
Over the next few weeks, Harry began trying a lot harder. Lupin's talk seemed to have energized him.
Then, the day came. It was the night before Umbridge's trial. When Lupin cast Legilimens, Harry was able to throw it off, for the most part, and continued to do so the rest of the lesson.
"Good job!" Lupin congratulated him at the end of the night.
"Does this mean I'm done with lessons?" Harry asked hopefully.
"Oh, not yet," Lupin said, "You still have to perfect it, and we're going to try longer time periods. You have to be able to block people from your mind unconsciously."
Harry groaned.
"But hopefully, by the end of the summer you will have it perfected. Then you will only have to review once a month during the school year." Lupin assured him. "Now, why don't you head off to bed, you have a big day tomorrow."
"Alright, g'night," Harry said.
"G'night Harry," Lupin responded.
Harry walked to the stairs and went up, passing by the bare spot on the wall where the portrait of Sirius' mother had once been. Over the past year, Sirius had managed to remove his mother's portrait, the Black family tapestry, and other random things that had refused to come off before. This meant that Kreacher had no one to listen too and remained mourning in the attic. He had received orders never to leave the house before Sirius had left and though Sirius was dead, he could not leave. This was all very well, for Kreacher did know many secrets of the Order, which he would have only been to happy to share with Voldemort and the Death Eaters. Harry reached the second floor landing and opened the door to his room.
"How'd it go Harry?" Ron asked.
Harry smiled, "Great, I'm beginning to repel the spell."
"Excellent," Ron smiled. "Ready for tomorrow?"
"Oh yeah," Harry responded enthusiastically. "Can't wait to put that old bat where she belongs."
"Me either," sighed Ron. They sat there for a moment reflecting on the idea of Umbridge getting sent to Azkaban. "Wonderful," Ron said staring dreamily at the ceiling, "Azkaban, just what she deserves!" Then he looked at Harry, "You better go shower, mum wants us all clean and lookin' good tomorrow. I'm going to go to sleep so I don't miss a thing tomorrow."
"Good idea," Harry agreed. And quickly saying good-night to Ron, he left the room quickly, showered, got ready for bed and hopped in. Tomorrow was going to be a good day indeed.
*~*
The next day dawned bright and early. Harry and Ron were awoken by Mrs. Weasley's pounding on the door, "Time to get up boys! We have to be there in an hour!"
Harry and Ron jumped out of bed and quickly dressed, shoving their robes into a bag. Ron combed his hair and Harry attempted to make his lie down, however, this was pointless as it never did. After quickly making their beds, they raced downstairs where toast and juice awaited them. Everyone else was already downstairs eating. They quickly ate and were ready five minutes later.
"Everyone out, c'mon, we're going to be late! Put that back Fred," Mrs. Weasley shouted, pointing at the invisible, smelling whoopee cushion Fred had in his hand.
"But mum!"
"I said no, c'mon lets go!"
"I was gonna slip this on Umbridge's seat," he whined, putting it in Mrs. Weasley's hand.
"There's no need to act that way anymore," Mrs. Weasley said. "Let's go!"
Finally everyone was out the door, leaving them a little over a half an hour to arrive. A ministry car was waiting outside for them.
"I thought we were going to take the Underground!" exclaimed Ron.
"There isn't enough time, we're lucky we could get a ministry car on such short notice. Hop in. We'll take the subway home. C'mon." An exasperated Mrs. Weasley said.
Ron grudgingly got into the car and Harry followed. In fifteen minutes they arrived outside a run-down telephone booth. This was where Harry and the others had entered in order to save Sirius only a month before. Harry swallowed the lump in his throat and tried to erase the fear that he felt. All nine of them squeezed into the telephone booth.
"Molly Weasley, Bill Weasley, Charlie Weasley, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Ron Weasley, Ginny Weasley, Harry Potter, and Remus Lupin here for the trial of Dolores Umbridge," Mrs. Weasley said into the telephone.
"Visitors please check in at the security desk when you enter. Have a good day!" A female voice said from the receiver. Nine badges popped out and were quickly passed around. Harry took his, it read:
Harry Potter
Trial Witness
Harry quickly pinned it to his robes that he had just put on. A second later the floor began to move down underneath him, and slowly they descended. As light began to show, Harry's heart rate sped up, he half expected Death Eaters to be surrounding them when they reached the bottom. However, when he was able to see below, it was just as it had looked a year ago when he had been here for his trial. They all stepped out of the booth and slowly made their way to the security desk. Harry glanced around. The statue in the middle of the atrium had been repaired, yet, Harry could see the spot where he had stood while Dumbledore fought Voldemort. He could see where a shocked Fudge had stepped out admitting that it was true, Voldemort was back. He could picture the whole scene. Harry closed his eyes and tried to shake the vision out of his head.
"Are you okay Harry?" Ginny asked him.
Harry nodded, "Just thinking."
"This is where you fought him, where Dumbledore fought him, isn't it?" Ginny asked.
Harry nodded. Ginny grasped his hand and squeezed it. It was comforting having someone next to him, knowing what was going through his mind. Harry smiled at her. They reached the security desk and had their wands checked. Then they quickly headed to the lift.
As they descended, Harry barely heard the voice declaring what floor they were on. They only thing going through his mind was the event that had happened last June. Then he heard the voice say, "Level nine, Department of Mysteries" The lift opened and a lady walked out. Harry glanced down the long hallway to the door at the end. Ron and Ginny were too. That's where it had happened, it seemed years ago, but that's where they had fought the Death Eaters. That's where, a few doors in, Sirius had fallen. Sirius, maybe he could still save him! He made to leave the lift, but Lupin had seen this coming and quickly restrained him.
"Harry, stay here, you know full well you won't get in there and even if you did, you couldn't save him! He's gone." Lupin said calmly.
Harry nodded stubbornly. It was a foolish thought, but still. Harry glanced longingly and loathingly down the hall once more before the lift doors shut, and the lift made its way once more towards the lower levels. They were now the only ones on the lift.
They reached the bottom level, ran to the stairs, and descended to the courtroom. The trial would be taking place in Courtroom 6. There were still ten minutes to spare when they entered the courtroom where Madam Bones greeted them.
"Welcome! Thank you for coming to witness at the trial. Your seats are across the courtroom in the first row." She pointed across the way to seats that were marked Reserved for Witnesses and their families, and already sitting there were Lee Jordan, Luna Lovegood, Neville, and. "Hermione!?" Harry called.
Hermione looked up and smiled as Harry and Ron raced over to greet her.
"What are you doing here?" Harry asked, "I thought you would still be on vacation."
"Well, we got the letter inviting me to the trial, and mum and dad said I could go," she said, motioning up to her parents, who were sitting anxiously beside her.
Harry sat down by her, and Ron followed. "So, how has your vacation been?" He asked.
"Wonderful," Hermione responded, "I've been seeing amazing sights and even visited the wizarding world in Rome! It was so beautiful, the entrance was actually within ancient Rome. I found." she paused for a moment, then continued, stuttering, "I found interesting.artifacts." She finished quickly, as though she had changed what she was going to say at the last moment.
"Really?" Harry asked suspiciously.
"Yes, such as an old book," she answered haltering.
"Of course," said Ron, "that sure is interesting." He rolled his yes. Hermione glared at him and then continued.
"Of course I didn't have too much time to read it, as I was busy doing all our homework, can you believe how much we have?"
"Way too much," Harry answered her complaint.
Suddenly a loud voice sounded. "Order! Order!" It was Madam Bones. The room became silent. "This trial has been called to discuss the actions taken by Ms. Dolores Jane Umbridge over the past year in the Ministry of Magic and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Accusations have been made against Ms. Umbridge pertaining to her sending dementors upon Harry Potter last summer, cruel punishments at Hogwarts, attempted use of an unforgivable curse and other such dealings. We will first call upon witnesses to these crimes. On the opposing side, we have Remus Lupin as the prosecutor and on the defendants side we have Percy Weasley representing Ms. Umbridge. Mr. Lupin will you please come forward." Harry looked at Lupin shocked, he had no idea that Lupin was on the prosecuting side.
Lupin stood up and walked to the front to state his claim. "Madam Bones, over the past year, having kept a close eye on Harry Potter, I have reason to believe that Ms. Umbridge has been using cruel and unusual punishments at Hogwarts, attempted to use an unforgivable curse on Mr. Potter, and has set dementors upon Mr. Potter last summer. It is my wish to bring forth charges against her. My first witness will be Harry Potter."
Harry nervously stood up and walked forward to the witness's chair. "Mr. Potter," Lupin addressed him, "It is my understanding that over the course of the past year you were given detentions by Ms. Umbridge, is this correct?"
"Yes," Harry said loudly.
"And why, may I ask, were you given these detentions?" Lupin pressed on.
This time, Harry found his voice and mumbled, "fortellingthetruthaboutVoldemort,"
"I'm sorry, I didn't catch that," Lupin said with a slight reassuring smile.
Harry spoke up, "For telling the truth about Voldemort." The people in the room gasped and began to murmur to one another. They were clearly shocked that he had used Voldemort's name.
"Order! Order!" Madam Bones commanded then nodded to Lupin, "You may continue."
"Thank you," Lupin nodded to her. "Now, Harry, what was the punishment she gave you?"
"I had to write lines."
"And how were you to write these lines?"
"I-I used a quill, and as I wrote, my skin would rip open to form the letters of what I was writing. Basically, I was using my blood." The room gasped once more.
"Thank you Harry, you may take your seat," Lupin nodded to him. Harry got up and returned to his seat. "Next, I would like to call Lee Jordan." Lee stood up and made his way to the front of the room.
"Lee, is it true that this same form of punishment was used on you?" Lupin asked.
Lee nodded, "Yes sir, it is true."
"Thank you, you may be seated." Lupin said, then he looked up to Madam Bones and the Jury. "You see, Ms. Umbridge has been subjecting students to cruel punishments."
Madam Bones smiled, "Thank you, now, Percy Weasley, would you like to defend this argument?"
Percy stood up, "Yes, Madam, I would. No where, does it say in the Law that one may not use these punishments in retribution for chronic misbehavior; therefore, there is no case against Ms. Umbridge in this matter." He sat down.
"Actually, there is a rule prohibiting inhumane punishments, there's even a list." Lupin pointed out.
"Yes, but it doesn't list this as one of them, however,"
"Oh, c'mon, one should get the picture," Lupin argued.
Percy shrugged, "Whatever you say, Lupin." Lupin glowered at him.
Madam Bones looked at Lupin, "Anything else?"
Lupin stood up, "No Madam."
"No," Percy said.
Madam Bones cleared her throat, "Next charge is the attempted use of an unforgivable curse, Mr. Lupin."
Lupin stood up once more. "I would like to call up numerous witnesses at once this time, if you please." He asked Madam Bones, who nodded in approval.
"Would Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Hermione Granger and Neville Longbottom please take the stand."
The six of them stood up and approached the stand. They remained standing as there weren't enough chairs. However, it was evident that a chair would probably have been good for Neville, as his legs were shaking madly. Once situated, Lupin began questioning.
"It is my understanding that Ms. Umbridge attempted the Cruciatus curse on Harry Potter. Is this true Mister Potter?" Lupin asked, looking at Harry.
"Yes sir," Harry said.
"And is it true, that the rest of you witnessed this?" Lupin inquired further.
"Yes," everyone else answered simultaneously.
"And once again, is it true, that you stopped this action, Miss Granger?" Lupin asked Hermione.
Hermione held her head up high confidently, but Harry could tell she was nervous because she was wringing her hands behind her back, "Yes sir, I told her a lie to stop her from performing the curse."
"Thank you, you may be seated."
They all walked nervously to their seats.
"Mr. Weasley, your defense?" Madame Bones asked Percy.
"Yes, I will not deny that Dolores Umbridge has admitted to this. However, it has been proved that she, along with our dear Minister, Cornelius Fudge, was under the Imperious Curse at the time. Therefore, given the circumstances, Dolores Umbridge is not responsible for any actions she may have taken during her time at Hogwarts."
Madame Bones raised her eyebrows, "Really, do you have any proof that this was the case?"
Percy smiled, "Of course, your honor, may I call forward my first witness, Draco Malfoy."
For the first time, Harry noticed Draco Malfoy sitting on the far side of the courtroom. Malfoy stood up and walked to the bench.
"Now, Mr. Malfoy, I understand that you knew Ms. Umbridge quite well." Percy stated.
"Yes sir, that is true," Malfoy responded smuggly.
"Now tell me, were there ever times when Ms. Umbridge would behave strangely, or shout out random phrases as if she was struggling to say them?"
"Oh yes, once when I was in her office, helping her, she began to act quite abnormally and appeared to be trying to say something, though I could never tell what the words were. Then she would resume to her task like normal, or to what I thought was normal. Alas, I had no idea that she was under the curse. If I had, I would have immediately alerted authorities," Malfoy finished off quickly, smiling with satisfaction.
"As you know, Madame Bones, people who have been placed under the Imperius curse go into phases when they act normal. These are the times when they are fighting the curse, or trying too. If you ask me, this story sounds very much like Dolores Umbridge was under the Imperius curse."
Madame Bones spoke, "Is that all?"
"Yes, your honor,"
"Mr. Lupin, would you like to add anything or question the witness?"
"Yes, your honor, both. First, I would like to say that Draco Malfoy's father is a proved Death Eater, how do we know that his son is a reliable source?" Lupin asked.
"How do we know that he's not?" Percy questioned back.
"I object your honor," Lupin shouted.
"Objection overruled, Mr. Weasley's defense is perfectly reasonable." Madame Bones declared.
"Well, it is evident that Mr. Malfoy worked closely with Ms. Umbridge; therefore, he very well could be lying on her behalf."
"But I'm not!" Malfoy said aggressively.
"It is not you time to speak Mr. Malfoy," Madame Bones reprimanded. Malfoy scowled.
Lupin looked towards Madame Bones, "I am finished questioning Mr. Malfoy, may I call up my next witness?"
Madame Bones nodded curtly, "Yes."
"Minerva McGonagall,"
Harry looked around and saw McGonagall stand up, a few rows above him. She made her way down the stairs and to the witness chair.
"Ms. McGonagall," Lupin began, "Is it true that you worked closely with Ms. Umbridge?"
"For the most part, yes," McGonagall said.
"Did it seem to you that she was under the Imperius curse?"
"No, it did not, it was clear that she was acting upon her own volition. There were never times when she would act out of the ordinary, and she was very consistent in her actions and behavior."
"Thank you," Lupin finished. McGonagall stood up and walked briskly to her seat.
"So you see your honor, we have a well-respected Professor verses a student who is the son of a Death Eater. Which one do you believe?"
"Very well, anything else?" Madame Bones asked.
No one moved.
"Right then, the third charge against Dolores Umbridge is setting Dementors upon Harry Potter last summer. Mr. Lupin.
"Last summer, I was alerted quite suddenly that Harry was in trouble for using the Patronus Charm and was being brought in for a trial. Now, having taught Harry the Patronus myself, and knowing him quite well, I knew he would not have used the charm for any other purpose but self-defense. In the end he was proven innocent. At the time that Ms. Umbridge attempted the Cruciatus curse on Harry, she informed him that she set the Dementors upon him. I would like to call Mr. Potter, if you don't mind." Lupin stated.
Harry once again stood up and walked to the witness seat and sat down.
"Harry, is it true that Ms. Dolores Umbridge informed you that she ordered Dementors to attack you last summer?"
"Yes," Harry responded.
"What was her reasoning behind this?"
"She said that the Ministry was looking for a charge to bring against me, but was doing nothing about it; therefore, she took things into her own hands and set the Dementors on me. Her plan almost worked." Harry answered.
"Interesting. So, she actually said this to you?"
"Yes," Harry said.
"Very well, please return to you seat. Ron Weasley, can you confirm that she said this for us?" Lupin asked.
"Yes, I can," Ron said from his seat.
"Thank you." Lupin said turning towards Madame Bones, "That is all."
"Your defense, Mr. Weasley," Madame Bones said.
"My defense is the same as last time, Ms. Umbridge was under the Imperius curse at the time she set the Dementors on Harry Potter. Therefore, it is clear that Ms. Umbridge is not at fault." Percy sat down.
Lupin stood up, "Your honor, may I remind you and the jury that when one is under Imperius, they cannot act and look normal. They look dazed and frightened at times. As you have heard, that has not been the case for Ms. Umbridge, meaning that she is guilty. She used cruel punishments on students, send Dementors upon Harry Potter and attempted to use the Cruciatus curse on Harry Potter." Lupin now sat down.
"Is that all?" Madame Bones said, looking back and forth between the two.
"Yes," They said simultaneously.
"Bring out Ms. Umbridge please," Madame Bones commanded.
Two heavy set men brought out Umbridge. She was struggling, but sat still when she was in the seat with the chains; they did not bind her. For a moment, Harry wondered why dementors had not brought her out, then he remembered that they had all joined Voldemort's forces.
"Ms. Umbridge, do you have anything to say for yourself?" Madame Bones pursued.
"Only this, in the past harsher punishments were used..."
"Yes, but they are now outlawed," Lupin said.
"Mr. Lupin, this is not your time to talk," Madame Bones reprimanded.
"Sorry," Lupin apologized.
"As I was saying," Umbridge continued. "I caused no lasting harm. Also, I did not perform the Cruciatus curse, and if I had so, I was under the Imperius curse. The same reasoning applies to me having ordering dementors to attack Mr. Potter last summer."
"Is that all?" Madame Bones asked.
"Yes," Umbridge said.
"Very well then, we will break for ten minutes and return with the verdict," Madame Bones said.
The hall immediately broke out in discussion while Madame Bones and the jury left to discuss the trial. Harry watched the door anxiously and didn't talk much as he waited. This trial had been very different then all the one's he had seen in Dumbledore's Pensieve. Perhaps he hadn't seen the part with all the witnesses. Suddenly, the door banged open and the jury and Madame Bone's walked in. Talking ceased immediately.
"The first sentence the jury will vote on is one year in prison for inhumane punishments, all in favor raise his or her hand." Madame Bones said.
Three-fourths of the jury raised their hands.
"The second sentence is five years for ordering Dementors on Harry Potter."
"Five years?" Ron asked, "I think she should get twenty!"
"All in favor raise his or her hand," Madame Bones said.
Once again, three-fourths of the jury raised their hands.
"Then it is hereby declared that today, the 25th of July, Dolores Jane Umbridge will be sentenced to 1 year in Azkaban for inhumane punishments and 5 years in Azkaban for setting Dementors upon Harry Potter.
Harry looked over at Ron, "Well, it's not great, but it's something."
Ron smiled, "I guess so, now let's get out of here, I'm hungry! Mom, can we get some Muggle food?"
"Definitely not, completely unhealthy, it'll clog your arteries!" Mrs Weasley said disgusted.
"Mooom!!" Ron moaned.
"No! Now let's go, if you want to eat lunch at all!"
Ron sighed then shrugged at Harry, "It was worth a try."
Harry nodded then turned to Hermione, "Are you coming?"
"No, I'm going home for a few days now, my grandparents are visiting tomorrow. But I'll see you guys really soon!" She gave Harry and Ron both hugs and they said good-bye before hurrying to catch up with the rest of the group. As they dashed towards the door, Harry caught Umbridge's eye. She scowled at Harry, making him grin, as he hurried by her.
In no time, they were up the lift and outside of the Ministry. Mr. Weasley was taking the day off, so he was with them.
"Now, to the Underground," Mrs. Weasley said, "Where is it?"
"This way Molly, this way," Mr. Weasley replied, taking a left. Everyone hurried after him. They had walked a block or two and were nearing the Underground when Harry suddenly felt a cold sensation inside of him.
Suddenly, Harry noticed a large crowd in the street. "He's passed out!" someone shouted. "She's gone delusional!" someone else cried. Harry heard screaming. He ran toward the crowd.
"Harry, no!" Lupin shouted. "But Harry hardly heard him, he just ran toward the crowd. It was getting colder, the screaming louder. He couldn't think, and then everything went black.
A.N. Oooh, another cliffy!! Bet you can't guess what happens! Sorry this chapter took so long! (But it is long!) I hoped you liked it. Look for the next one hopefully soon! Please Review!!
hArRy-PoTtEr-FaNaTiC: Here it is!! Thanks for reviewing!!
Devinpotter-georgeweasley: Here it is! Thanks for reviewing!!
Anaxandra: Oh yes, I had to do a trial, Umbridge was horrid. Does Sirius come back? Hmm.you'll have to wait and find out!! Sorry!
Bookworm2000: Thank you for the lovely compliment on my story!
Phoenixangel: I hope you liked the trial. It was hard to write.
Lishka: Haha, thanks for editing!
Mella deranged: Yeah, I don't like a brooding Harry, so I'm trying to make it realistic, but not depressing.
Lishel Fracrium: Thanks!!
I only answered to those who reviewed for the 2nd chapter, sorry 1st chapter reviewers, thanks for yours too!!
Disclaimer: I own nothing. J.K. Rowling owns it all. All I own is a few characters.
Thanks to my editor, Alicia!! You're awesome (and we're crazy!!) Thanks!
Chapter 3: The Trial of Dolores Umbridge
"Hermes?" Ginny asked trembling as she removed the letter.
Dearest family,
I have written to apologize for my behavior throughout this past year, I am very sorry for the way I have acted. I completely believe that You-know-who has come back and that Harry Potter was correct. Please forgive me. However, I must say that I am in full support of Dolores Umbridge and will be defending her at her trial. Please do not testify against her as she meant no harm. She had been placed under the Imperius curse by Lucius Malfoy, along with our dear Minister. So, it would please me if you would attend her trial and testify in her favor. Once again, I apologize for all the pain I have caused, and I fully support the tasks you have undertaken to defeat You-know-who. Love,
Percy
"I don't believe it," whispered Ginny, "I don't believe it, what a liar! Imperius curse, right, she wasn't under no Imperius curse."
"You're right Ginny," Mr. Weasley backed her up, "You're absolutely right."
"Trying to cover up for Fudge, huh?" Charlie stated, "Of course, all those decree's Umbridge devised were signed by Fudge, so therefore, he's soley responsible. Not to mention the fact that he placed her at Hogwarts, lying even more of the blame on her actions on him. If he was under Imperius, of course, it was the work of Voldemort, and therefore, no fault of his own. Plus, he wouldn't want to lose a good ministry official!"
"He did apologize," Mrs. Weasley said.
"What a way to show he's sorry," Ron muttered. "Lying out straight to us,"
"We should still welcome him back, he's been gone so long!" Mrs. Weasley urged.
"I'm not speaking to him, when he's lying like that. He still cares more about the Ministry than us!" Ron countered.
"Me neither," Ginny said with disgust.
Mrs. Weasley looked at her husband who shrugged, she sighed. "Children, go up to bed." Harry, Ron, and Ginny reluctantly stood up. The other children stayed seated.
"Boys, please?" Mr. Weasley asked, looking at the remaining four Weasley children.
"Okay," Fred stood up, "We've got work tomorrow anyway."
"We'll leave too," Tonks said motioning to Moody and Lupin as well.
Mrs. Weasley nodded, "Thank you."
They all stood up and left. Harry and Ron were following the rest upstairs when Fred doubled back and whispered to Harry, "We're coming to your room, George and I, along with Ginny."
Harry nodded, noticing George whispering to Ginny. Harry opened the bedroom door and stepped in. It was just as he remembered it, his room.
George ushered the rest in and closed the door.
"What a joke!" Ginny cried, clearly still very angry about the letter, "What. a. joke. I can't believe he'd write that! He knows perfectly well that that's not true and he expects us to welcome him back and believe him!"
"Doesn't surprise me," said Ron seriously, "the way he's been acting."
Harry shook his head, "Well, I'm still testifying against Umbridge, no matter what he says."
"Me too," the four Weasleys responded simultaneously.
The silence that followed was a bit uncomfortable. "So." Harry began trying to change the subject and break the silence, "Have you joined the Order?" He asked, nodding to Fred and George.
"We've tried," Fred said, "But we're only partial members."
"How is that?" asked Harry.
"Well, they tell us everything that's going on, and let us give ideas, but we don't get to do any of the dirty work you could say." George answered.
"So you are let into the secret meetings then?" Harry questioned.
"Most of them, once in awhile they won't let us in, but we have access to most meetings." Fred said.
"It is pretty cool." George finished.
"So you are pretty much members, but can't do anything to help." Harry stated, trying to comprehend their position.
"Yeah, I guess you could say that," Fred agreed.
"Wicked," said Harry.
"I can't wait until I can join," Ron sighed.
"Same here," said Harry, "I'm so ready and I don't get why Dumbledore won't let me, with the Pro." He broke off. They didn't know about the Prophecy yet. He didn't even know if he would tell them. If so, it would only be Ron and Hermione, definitely not the rest.
"The what?" Ron asked.
"N-nothing," Harry concluded, "Nothing."
They all looked at him suspiciously, but no one pressed on further.
Ginny yawned, "I'm tired, g'night all, I'm going to bed."
"G'night Ginny," Ron said off-handedly.
"G'night," everyone else echoed.
Ginny went to the door and opened it. "And no letters to Dean!" Ron shouted after her.
Ginny stopped, turned around, and rolled her eyes, "I wasn't going too, but if I was, do you think I'd listen to you?"
"Whatever," Ron mumbled. With that Ginny left the room and closed the door. Everyone remained silent until they heard her door shut from the floor above.
"Right," George said, "Well, me and Fred better head out too, early morning tomorrow!"
"Yup," continued George, "Business is booming and lines have been queuing up continuously, almost everyday!"
"That's excellent," Harry exclaimed.
"Sure is," said Fred, puffing his chest out, "We've made loads within the few months we've been out, especially in the summer, 'cus all the Hogwarts students are out and stocking up!"
"And mum said we would get nowhere with this!" George guffawed.
And with that, they both apparated out of the room.
Ron looked at Harry, "Well, I suppose we should go to sleep soon too, I'm glad to see your doing better now."
Harry nodded, "Yeah, thanks a lot mate. I really am feeling better. It is hard though, seeing all of Sirius' stuff."
Ron nodded, "It must be hard, I mean, I even feel sad about it, and I wasn't nearly as close to him as you were." Ron said.
Harry nodded, "Well, I suppose I'll get used to it, someday. Lupin's helping a lot too, as he was one of S-Sirius' best friends," He stuttered, feeling a lump in his throat again.
Suddenly a knock came at the door.
"Come in," Harry called.
The door opened and Lupin walked in.
"Harry, remember, we're going to start Occlumency tomorrow. How about 8 o'clock tomorrow night?" He asked.
"All right then," Harry agreed.
Lupin smiled, "Great, don't worry Harry, it will be a lot easier for you without Snape teaching it."
A burning hate enveloped Harry once more, as it had numerous times before at the end of the last school year. There was no way Harry would forgive Snape. Everytime he heard the name, he was reminded again of how awful Snape was. How was he going to endure another 2 years of him?
Harry shook his head, clearing his thoughts of Snape and smiled at Lupin, "I sure hope so."
"Well, g'night then Harry,"
"G'night," Harry responded. Lupin shut the door.
Ron, clearly startled, looked at Harry, "More Occlumency?"
Harry nodded.
"Boy I feel sorry for you," Ron said sincerely. "By the way, did you get the homework list for next year?"
"Yeah," Harry sighed, "Can you believe how much summer work we have?"
Ron shook his head, "You're taking Charms, Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Care of Magical Creatures and what else?"
"Herbology and Potions," replied Harry wrinkling his nose.
"Ooh, not cool," Ron said, "I'm taking the same, minus the Potions."
Ron was going to go into the Ministry after school. He had high enough marks to be an Auror, but it hadn't been at the top of his list anyways.
"Lucky you," He said to Ron.
"Yeah," Ron sighed, changing into his pajama's. "Well, I'm tired, g'night."
"G'night," Harry replied, quickly changing into his pajama's and putting out the lamp.
Over the next few days, Harry was very busy. He worked on homework, talked to Ron, and began Occlumency. Of course there was always time to dwell on Sirius too, which Harry didn't exactly like doing. They had decided to leave Sirius' room as it was for that moment, of which Harry was extremely glad because it would have surely caused him to cry if they had emptied it. Occlumency began better than Harry expected. The first lesson he walked into the study to meet Lupin.
"Hello Harry," Lupin had immediately greeted him.
Harry smiled, "Hello."
"Now, you already know the basics, correct?"
Harry nodded.
"Right then, we'll start slow, I'll give you some time to clear your mind, and empty yourself of emotion." Lupin directed.
Harry nodded once more and began to try to empty his mind, which, to say the least, is not an easy task for anyone to do.
"Legilimens," Lupin said.
Suddenly Harry could remember his first day of Muggle school and Dudley already bullying him, his eighth birthday and opening a pair of moldy socks, meeting Ron for the first time, the dementors bearing down on him and Sirius and the others. Sirius. Sirius. "Sirius!" Harry called and then opened his eyes to find himself on the floor, tears rolling down his face.
"Oh Harry, I'm so sorry," Lupin said coming over to comfort him, "I'm so sorry, do you want to stop for the night?"
Harry shook his head vigorously, "No, I'm doing this for Sirius, it's important that I do, if I had been able to do it before he died, then he'd still be alive." He determinedly stood up determinedly and began preparing himself.
Once again Lupin shouted Legilimens, once again Harry failed. After about ten tries, exhausted, Harry sat down in a chair frustrated. "It's no use, I'm never going to be able to do it."
Lupin smiling down on him replied, "Of course you will Harry, by the end of the summer, you will master Occlumency. I know you can do it. Now, I do think that's enough for one night. You go to bed and remember to try to clear you mind of emotion before you fall asleep. We'll meet again in two days at 8 o'clock."
And so they had continued to meet, a few times a week, week after week. Harry seemed to think he wasn't getting any better, but Lupin said he was improving every time. Harry just hoped he could get better at it by the end of the summer.
One evening, after numerous tries, Harry flopped down and muttered, "I quit."
"You don't really mean that, do you Harry?" Lupin whispered.
"I sure as mean it as sure as I'm alive." Harry said, getting up to leave.
"Harry, you will not leave this room until I say so," Lupin said, blocking the door.
"You can't make me sit around in here and work my butt off, to learn some stupid magic! You weren't like this when you taught me the Patronus charm in my 3rd year! You said I didn't have to learn it if I didn't want too, isn't this the same kind of thing?" Harry challenged.
The look on Lupin's face told Harry he was wrong as he shrunk back from Lupin, "Harry, that was then, this is now. You must learn Occlumency, it is vital for your survival and ours."
"So, it's all about you, huh?" Harry asked angrily. "I'm doing this for your safety!"
"Harry, that's not what I mean, and you know that perfectly well!" Lupin shouted. "Now, stop it! You will stay in here, until I say you can go."
Harry sat down dejectedly. He knew Lupin was right, "I'm sorry," Harry mumbled.
"Apology accepted. Now I do believe it is time to wrap up, clear your thought and emotions before going to bed. We'll meet in two days." Lupin said calmly.
Harry sauntered out of the room and up to bed.
Over the next few weeks, Harry began trying a lot harder. Lupin's talk seemed to have energized him.
Then, the day came. It was the night before Umbridge's trial. When Lupin cast Legilimens, Harry was able to throw it off, for the most part, and continued to do so the rest of the lesson.
"Good job!" Lupin congratulated him at the end of the night.
"Does this mean I'm done with lessons?" Harry asked hopefully.
"Oh, not yet," Lupin said, "You still have to perfect it, and we're going to try longer time periods. You have to be able to block people from your mind unconsciously."
Harry groaned.
"But hopefully, by the end of the summer you will have it perfected. Then you will only have to review once a month during the school year." Lupin assured him. "Now, why don't you head off to bed, you have a big day tomorrow."
"Alright, g'night," Harry said.
"G'night Harry," Lupin responded.
Harry walked to the stairs and went up, passing by the bare spot on the wall where the portrait of Sirius' mother had once been. Over the past year, Sirius had managed to remove his mother's portrait, the Black family tapestry, and other random things that had refused to come off before. This meant that Kreacher had no one to listen too and remained mourning in the attic. He had received orders never to leave the house before Sirius had left and though Sirius was dead, he could not leave. This was all very well, for Kreacher did know many secrets of the Order, which he would have only been to happy to share with Voldemort and the Death Eaters. Harry reached the second floor landing and opened the door to his room.
"How'd it go Harry?" Ron asked.
Harry smiled, "Great, I'm beginning to repel the spell."
"Excellent," Ron smiled. "Ready for tomorrow?"
"Oh yeah," Harry responded enthusiastically. "Can't wait to put that old bat where she belongs."
"Me either," sighed Ron. They sat there for a moment reflecting on the idea of Umbridge getting sent to Azkaban. "Wonderful," Ron said staring dreamily at the ceiling, "Azkaban, just what she deserves!" Then he looked at Harry, "You better go shower, mum wants us all clean and lookin' good tomorrow. I'm going to go to sleep so I don't miss a thing tomorrow."
"Good idea," Harry agreed. And quickly saying good-night to Ron, he left the room quickly, showered, got ready for bed and hopped in. Tomorrow was going to be a good day indeed.
*~*
The next day dawned bright and early. Harry and Ron were awoken by Mrs. Weasley's pounding on the door, "Time to get up boys! We have to be there in an hour!"
Harry and Ron jumped out of bed and quickly dressed, shoving their robes into a bag. Ron combed his hair and Harry attempted to make his lie down, however, this was pointless as it never did. After quickly making their beds, they raced downstairs where toast and juice awaited them. Everyone else was already downstairs eating. They quickly ate and were ready five minutes later.
"Everyone out, c'mon, we're going to be late! Put that back Fred," Mrs. Weasley shouted, pointing at the invisible, smelling whoopee cushion Fred had in his hand.
"But mum!"
"I said no, c'mon lets go!"
"I was gonna slip this on Umbridge's seat," he whined, putting it in Mrs. Weasley's hand.
"There's no need to act that way anymore," Mrs. Weasley said. "Let's go!"
Finally everyone was out the door, leaving them a little over a half an hour to arrive. A ministry car was waiting outside for them.
"I thought we were going to take the Underground!" exclaimed Ron.
"There isn't enough time, we're lucky we could get a ministry car on such short notice. Hop in. We'll take the subway home. C'mon." An exasperated Mrs. Weasley said.
Ron grudgingly got into the car and Harry followed. In fifteen minutes they arrived outside a run-down telephone booth. This was where Harry and the others had entered in order to save Sirius only a month before. Harry swallowed the lump in his throat and tried to erase the fear that he felt. All nine of them squeezed into the telephone booth.
"Molly Weasley, Bill Weasley, Charlie Weasley, Fred Weasley, George Weasley, Ron Weasley, Ginny Weasley, Harry Potter, and Remus Lupin here for the trial of Dolores Umbridge," Mrs. Weasley said into the telephone.
"Visitors please check in at the security desk when you enter. Have a good day!" A female voice said from the receiver. Nine badges popped out and were quickly passed around. Harry took his, it read:
Harry Potter
Trial Witness
Harry quickly pinned it to his robes that he had just put on. A second later the floor began to move down underneath him, and slowly they descended. As light began to show, Harry's heart rate sped up, he half expected Death Eaters to be surrounding them when they reached the bottom. However, when he was able to see below, it was just as it had looked a year ago when he had been here for his trial. They all stepped out of the booth and slowly made their way to the security desk. Harry glanced around. The statue in the middle of the atrium had been repaired, yet, Harry could see the spot where he had stood while Dumbledore fought Voldemort. He could see where a shocked Fudge had stepped out admitting that it was true, Voldemort was back. He could picture the whole scene. Harry closed his eyes and tried to shake the vision out of his head.
"Are you okay Harry?" Ginny asked him.
Harry nodded, "Just thinking."
"This is where you fought him, where Dumbledore fought him, isn't it?" Ginny asked.
Harry nodded. Ginny grasped his hand and squeezed it. It was comforting having someone next to him, knowing what was going through his mind. Harry smiled at her. They reached the security desk and had their wands checked. Then they quickly headed to the lift.
As they descended, Harry barely heard the voice declaring what floor they were on. They only thing going through his mind was the event that had happened last June. Then he heard the voice say, "Level nine, Department of Mysteries" The lift opened and a lady walked out. Harry glanced down the long hallway to the door at the end. Ron and Ginny were too. That's where it had happened, it seemed years ago, but that's where they had fought the Death Eaters. That's where, a few doors in, Sirius had fallen. Sirius, maybe he could still save him! He made to leave the lift, but Lupin had seen this coming and quickly restrained him.
"Harry, stay here, you know full well you won't get in there and even if you did, you couldn't save him! He's gone." Lupin said calmly.
Harry nodded stubbornly. It was a foolish thought, but still. Harry glanced longingly and loathingly down the hall once more before the lift doors shut, and the lift made its way once more towards the lower levels. They were now the only ones on the lift.
They reached the bottom level, ran to the stairs, and descended to the courtroom. The trial would be taking place in Courtroom 6. There were still ten minutes to spare when they entered the courtroom where Madam Bones greeted them.
"Welcome! Thank you for coming to witness at the trial. Your seats are across the courtroom in the first row." She pointed across the way to seats that were marked Reserved for Witnesses and their families, and already sitting there were Lee Jordan, Luna Lovegood, Neville, and. "Hermione!?" Harry called.
Hermione looked up and smiled as Harry and Ron raced over to greet her.
"What are you doing here?" Harry asked, "I thought you would still be on vacation."
"Well, we got the letter inviting me to the trial, and mum and dad said I could go," she said, motioning up to her parents, who were sitting anxiously beside her.
Harry sat down by her, and Ron followed. "So, how has your vacation been?" He asked.
"Wonderful," Hermione responded, "I've been seeing amazing sights and even visited the wizarding world in Rome! It was so beautiful, the entrance was actually within ancient Rome. I found." she paused for a moment, then continued, stuttering, "I found interesting.artifacts." She finished quickly, as though she had changed what she was going to say at the last moment.
"Really?" Harry asked suspiciously.
"Yes, such as an old book," she answered haltering.
"Of course," said Ron, "that sure is interesting." He rolled his yes. Hermione glared at him and then continued.
"Of course I didn't have too much time to read it, as I was busy doing all our homework, can you believe how much we have?"
"Way too much," Harry answered her complaint.
Suddenly a loud voice sounded. "Order! Order!" It was Madam Bones. The room became silent. "This trial has been called to discuss the actions taken by Ms. Dolores Jane Umbridge over the past year in the Ministry of Magic and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Accusations have been made against Ms. Umbridge pertaining to her sending dementors upon Harry Potter last summer, cruel punishments at Hogwarts, attempted use of an unforgivable curse and other such dealings. We will first call upon witnesses to these crimes. On the opposing side, we have Remus Lupin as the prosecutor and on the defendants side we have Percy Weasley representing Ms. Umbridge. Mr. Lupin will you please come forward." Harry looked at Lupin shocked, he had no idea that Lupin was on the prosecuting side.
Lupin stood up and walked to the front to state his claim. "Madam Bones, over the past year, having kept a close eye on Harry Potter, I have reason to believe that Ms. Umbridge has been using cruel and unusual punishments at Hogwarts, attempted to use an unforgivable curse on Mr. Potter, and has set dementors upon Mr. Potter last summer. It is my wish to bring forth charges against her. My first witness will be Harry Potter."
Harry nervously stood up and walked forward to the witness's chair. "Mr. Potter," Lupin addressed him, "It is my understanding that over the course of the past year you were given detentions by Ms. Umbridge, is this correct?"
"Yes," Harry said loudly.
"And why, may I ask, were you given these detentions?" Lupin pressed on.
This time, Harry found his voice and mumbled, "fortellingthetruthaboutVoldemort,"
"I'm sorry, I didn't catch that," Lupin said with a slight reassuring smile.
Harry spoke up, "For telling the truth about Voldemort." The people in the room gasped and began to murmur to one another. They were clearly shocked that he had used Voldemort's name.
"Order! Order!" Madam Bones commanded then nodded to Lupin, "You may continue."
"Thank you," Lupin nodded to her. "Now, Harry, what was the punishment she gave you?"
"I had to write lines."
"And how were you to write these lines?"
"I-I used a quill, and as I wrote, my skin would rip open to form the letters of what I was writing. Basically, I was using my blood." The room gasped once more.
"Thank you Harry, you may take your seat," Lupin nodded to him. Harry got up and returned to his seat. "Next, I would like to call Lee Jordan." Lee stood up and made his way to the front of the room.
"Lee, is it true that this same form of punishment was used on you?" Lupin asked.
Lee nodded, "Yes sir, it is true."
"Thank you, you may be seated." Lupin said, then he looked up to Madam Bones and the Jury. "You see, Ms. Umbridge has been subjecting students to cruel punishments."
Madam Bones smiled, "Thank you, now, Percy Weasley, would you like to defend this argument?"
Percy stood up, "Yes, Madam, I would. No where, does it say in the Law that one may not use these punishments in retribution for chronic misbehavior; therefore, there is no case against Ms. Umbridge in this matter." He sat down.
"Actually, there is a rule prohibiting inhumane punishments, there's even a list." Lupin pointed out.
"Yes, but it doesn't list this as one of them, however,"
"Oh, c'mon, one should get the picture," Lupin argued.
Percy shrugged, "Whatever you say, Lupin." Lupin glowered at him.
Madam Bones looked at Lupin, "Anything else?"
Lupin stood up, "No Madam."
"No," Percy said.
Madam Bones cleared her throat, "Next charge is the attempted use of an unforgivable curse, Mr. Lupin."
Lupin stood up once more. "I would like to call up numerous witnesses at once this time, if you please." He asked Madam Bones, who nodded in approval.
"Would Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, Ginny Weasley, Luna Lovegood, Hermione Granger and Neville Longbottom please take the stand."
The six of them stood up and approached the stand. They remained standing as there weren't enough chairs. However, it was evident that a chair would probably have been good for Neville, as his legs were shaking madly. Once situated, Lupin began questioning.
"It is my understanding that Ms. Umbridge attempted the Cruciatus curse on Harry Potter. Is this true Mister Potter?" Lupin asked, looking at Harry.
"Yes sir," Harry said.
"And is it true, that the rest of you witnessed this?" Lupin inquired further.
"Yes," everyone else answered simultaneously.
"And once again, is it true, that you stopped this action, Miss Granger?" Lupin asked Hermione.
Hermione held her head up high confidently, but Harry could tell she was nervous because she was wringing her hands behind her back, "Yes sir, I told her a lie to stop her from performing the curse."
"Thank you, you may be seated."
They all walked nervously to their seats.
"Mr. Weasley, your defense?" Madame Bones asked Percy.
"Yes, I will not deny that Dolores Umbridge has admitted to this. However, it has been proved that she, along with our dear Minister, Cornelius Fudge, was under the Imperious Curse at the time. Therefore, given the circumstances, Dolores Umbridge is not responsible for any actions she may have taken during her time at Hogwarts."
Madame Bones raised her eyebrows, "Really, do you have any proof that this was the case?"
Percy smiled, "Of course, your honor, may I call forward my first witness, Draco Malfoy."
For the first time, Harry noticed Draco Malfoy sitting on the far side of the courtroom. Malfoy stood up and walked to the bench.
"Now, Mr. Malfoy, I understand that you knew Ms. Umbridge quite well." Percy stated.
"Yes sir, that is true," Malfoy responded smuggly.
"Now tell me, were there ever times when Ms. Umbridge would behave strangely, or shout out random phrases as if she was struggling to say them?"
"Oh yes, once when I was in her office, helping her, she began to act quite abnormally and appeared to be trying to say something, though I could never tell what the words were. Then she would resume to her task like normal, or to what I thought was normal. Alas, I had no idea that she was under the curse. If I had, I would have immediately alerted authorities," Malfoy finished off quickly, smiling with satisfaction.
"As you know, Madame Bones, people who have been placed under the Imperius curse go into phases when they act normal. These are the times when they are fighting the curse, or trying too. If you ask me, this story sounds very much like Dolores Umbridge was under the Imperius curse."
Madame Bones spoke, "Is that all?"
"Yes, your honor,"
"Mr. Lupin, would you like to add anything or question the witness?"
"Yes, your honor, both. First, I would like to say that Draco Malfoy's father is a proved Death Eater, how do we know that his son is a reliable source?" Lupin asked.
"How do we know that he's not?" Percy questioned back.
"I object your honor," Lupin shouted.
"Objection overruled, Mr. Weasley's defense is perfectly reasonable." Madame Bones declared.
"Well, it is evident that Mr. Malfoy worked closely with Ms. Umbridge; therefore, he very well could be lying on her behalf."
"But I'm not!" Malfoy said aggressively.
"It is not you time to speak Mr. Malfoy," Madame Bones reprimanded. Malfoy scowled.
Lupin looked towards Madame Bones, "I am finished questioning Mr. Malfoy, may I call up my next witness?"
Madame Bones nodded curtly, "Yes."
"Minerva McGonagall,"
Harry looked around and saw McGonagall stand up, a few rows above him. She made her way down the stairs and to the witness chair.
"Ms. McGonagall," Lupin began, "Is it true that you worked closely with Ms. Umbridge?"
"For the most part, yes," McGonagall said.
"Did it seem to you that she was under the Imperius curse?"
"No, it did not, it was clear that she was acting upon her own volition. There were never times when she would act out of the ordinary, and she was very consistent in her actions and behavior."
"Thank you," Lupin finished. McGonagall stood up and walked briskly to her seat.
"So you see your honor, we have a well-respected Professor verses a student who is the son of a Death Eater. Which one do you believe?"
"Very well, anything else?" Madame Bones asked.
No one moved.
"Right then, the third charge against Dolores Umbridge is setting Dementors upon Harry Potter last summer. Mr. Lupin.
"Last summer, I was alerted quite suddenly that Harry was in trouble for using the Patronus Charm and was being brought in for a trial. Now, having taught Harry the Patronus myself, and knowing him quite well, I knew he would not have used the charm for any other purpose but self-defense. In the end he was proven innocent. At the time that Ms. Umbridge attempted the Cruciatus curse on Harry, she informed him that she set the Dementors upon him. I would like to call Mr. Potter, if you don't mind." Lupin stated.
Harry once again stood up and walked to the witness seat and sat down.
"Harry, is it true that Ms. Dolores Umbridge informed you that she ordered Dementors to attack you last summer?"
"Yes," Harry responded.
"What was her reasoning behind this?"
"She said that the Ministry was looking for a charge to bring against me, but was doing nothing about it; therefore, she took things into her own hands and set the Dementors on me. Her plan almost worked." Harry answered.
"Interesting. So, she actually said this to you?"
"Yes," Harry said.
"Very well, please return to you seat. Ron Weasley, can you confirm that she said this for us?" Lupin asked.
"Yes, I can," Ron said from his seat.
"Thank you." Lupin said turning towards Madame Bones, "That is all."
"Your defense, Mr. Weasley," Madame Bones said.
"My defense is the same as last time, Ms. Umbridge was under the Imperius curse at the time she set the Dementors on Harry Potter. Therefore, it is clear that Ms. Umbridge is not at fault." Percy sat down.
Lupin stood up, "Your honor, may I remind you and the jury that when one is under Imperius, they cannot act and look normal. They look dazed and frightened at times. As you have heard, that has not been the case for Ms. Umbridge, meaning that she is guilty. She used cruel punishments on students, send Dementors upon Harry Potter and attempted to use the Cruciatus curse on Harry Potter." Lupin now sat down.
"Is that all?" Madame Bones said, looking back and forth between the two.
"Yes," They said simultaneously.
"Bring out Ms. Umbridge please," Madame Bones commanded.
Two heavy set men brought out Umbridge. She was struggling, but sat still when she was in the seat with the chains; they did not bind her. For a moment, Harry wondered why dementors had not brought her out, then he remembered that they had all joined Voldemort's forces.
"Ms. Umbridge, do you have anything to say for yourself?" Madame Bones pursued.
"Only this, in the past harsher punishments were used..."
"Yes, but they are now outlawed," Lupin said.
"Mr. Lupin, this is not your time to talk," Madame Bones reprimanded.
"Sorry," Lupin apologized.
"As I was saying," Umbridge continued. "I caused no lasting harm. Also, I did not perform the Cruciatus curse, and if I had so, I was under the Imperius curse. The same reasoning applies to me having ordering dementors to attack Mr. Potter last summer."
"Is that all?" Madame Bones asked.
"Yes," Umbridge said.
"Very well then, we will break for ten minutes and return with the verdict," Madame Bones said.
The hall immediately broke out in discussion while Madame Bones and the jury left to discuss the trial. Harry watched the door anxiously and didn't talk much as he waited. This trial had been very different then all the one's he had seen in Dumbledore's Pensieve. Perhaps he hadn't seen the part with all the witnesses. Suddenly, the door banged open and the jury and Madame Bone's walked in. Talking ceased immediately.
"The first sentence the jury will vote on is one year in prison for inhumane punishments, all in favor raise his or her hand." Madame Bones said.
Three-fourths of the jury raised their hands.
"The second sentence is five years for ordering Dementors on Harry Potter."
"Five years?" Ron asked, "I think she should get twenty!"
"All in favor raise his or her hand," Madame Bones said.
Once again, three-fourths of the jury raised their hands.
"Then it is hereby declared that today, the 25th of July, Dolores Jane Umbridge will be sentenced to 1 year in Azkaban for inhumane punishments and 5 years in Azkaban for setting Dementors upon Harry Potter.
Harry looked over at Ron, "Well, it's not great, but it's something."
Ron smiled, "I guess so, now let's get out of here, I'm hungry! Mom, can we get some Muggle food?"
"Definitely not, completely unhealthy, it'll clog your arteries!" Mrs Weasley said disgusted.
"Mooom!!" Ron moaned.
"No! Now let's go, if you want to eat lunch at all!"
Ron sighed then shrugged at Harry, "It was worth a try."
Harry nodded then turned to Hermione, "Are you coming?"
"No, I'm going home for a few days now, my grandparents are visiting tomorrow. But I'll see you guys really soon!" She gave Harry and Ron both hugs and they said good-bye before hurrying to catch up with the rest of the group. As they dashed towards the door, Harry caught Umbridge's eye. She scowled at Harry, making him grin, as he hurried by her.
In no time, they were up the lift and outside of the Ministry. Mr. Weasley was taking the day off, so he was with them.
"Now, to the Underground," Mrs. Weasley said, "Where is it?"
"This way Molly, this way," Mr. Weasley replied, taking a left. Everyone hurried after him. They had walked a block or two and were nearing the Underground when Harry suddenly felt a cold sensation inside of him.
Suddenly, Harry noticed a large crowd in the street. "He's passed out!" someone shouted. "She's gone delusional!" someone else cried. Harry heard screaming. He ran toward the crowd.
"Harry, no!" Lupin shouted. "But Harry hardly heard him, he just ran toward the crowd. It was getting colder, the screaming louder. He couldn't think, and then everything went black.
A.N. Oooh, another cliffy!! Bet you can't guess what happens! Sorry this chapter took so long! (But it is long!) I hoped you liked it. Look for the next one hopefully soon! Please Review!!
hArRy-PoTtEr-FaNaTiC: Here it is!! Thanks for reviewing!!
Devinpotter-georgeweasley: Here it is! Thanks for reviewing!!
Anaxandra: Oh yes, I had to do a trial, Umbridge was horrid. Does Sirius come back? Hmm.you'll have to wait and find out!! Sorry!
Bookworm2000: Thank you for the lovely compliment on my story!
Phoenixangel: I hope you liked the trial. It was hard to write.
Lishka: Haha, thanks for editing!
Mella deranged: Yeah, I don't like a brooding Harry, so I'm trying to make it realistic, but not depressing.
Lishel Fracrium: Thanks!!
I only answered to those who reviewed for the 2nd chapter, sorry 1st chapter reviewers, thanks for yours too!!