A/N: So, did everyone like the prologue? Don't worry, I assure you that this story does have a plot. I think. Anywho, just to clarify, this does take place during the movie, but it really has nothing to do with the movie. So, please read, review, and enjoy!
Chapter 1: From Now to Then
James Moriarty raced through the halls of his Mongolia fortress, Allan Quatermain hot on his heels. Sawyer had dropped off already, detained by Sanderson Reed, James thought. He rushed up the stairs to the attic, somehow gaining a few moments on Quatermain. He only hoped it would be enough.
Moriarty threw open the door to the attic and rushed inside. His bag of tricks in one hand, he hurried to the center of the room where something was covered with a large sheet. Moriarty threw off the heavy cloth even as he heard the hunter on the steps.
A large machine appeared from under the cloth and Moriarty began pushing buttons rapidly. The machine had never been tested, but as Serena's words rang in his ears, Moriarty knew it was his only choice.
There was a whine and a low roar as the machine warmed up. A few lights began to flash and a high-pitched whirl filled the air. Just as Quatermain burst into the room, Moriarty pulled a lever on the side of the machine.
A blinding light filled the room, and Quatermain felt himself being thrown back by the force. He couldn't see anything for the light, but he felt himself slam into the wall. A seething pain coursed through his body, and he opened his mouth to scream, but no sound emerged. The pain intensified, and just as Quatermain's mind began to lose consciousness, he felt something pull him forward. He was thrown with a great force, and it felt as though he were trapped in a giant vortex. His last thought before he lost consciousness was the question of why he hadn't hit the machine in the middle of the room.