Hey everyone,
So originally, this AN was meant to comment on the newest chapter for Preventing Trouble, but ... real life made it a little hard for me to write this month, so you can expect said chapter at the end of June. And trust me, it's going to be pretty great, though it will also bring a major change to the amount of books that will be read in that story.
Trust me,
Venquine1990
PS. I think I am going to try and play with paragraph length in this chapter a little. Emphasis on the words A little.
Chapter 08
Various Ways To Hide
24th of June 1995
Great Hall, Hogwarts
Snape's POV
Potter has always found incredible and unbelievable ways to get himself out of situations that should have seen him killed. But there being creatures and people from other worlds that are willing to help him out of perilous situations is something I could have never seen coming.
Regardless of the fact that I am Muggle Raised and perfectly aware of the fact that Muggles have been searching for life outside of our solar system for years. I may hate and despise most Muggles, especially Muggles that are like my own late father, but I can be reasonable and admit that Muggle technology makes them much more advanced in various forms of life.
Though not even the most interesting movie documentary can hold a candle to a bubbling brew inside a perfectly well-maintained cauldron. Thus I never even entertained the thought to switch the Magical World for the Muggle.
Certainly the Magical world has many problems, annoyances and inconveniences, but when you find your calling, you dedicate your life to it. Regardless of whether or not others might try to use that calling of yours to their own benefit.
And this is what intrigues me the most about the current situation. Potter seems to be aware of Dumbledore being more manipulative than helpful and doesn't seem as loyally devoted to the man as most people tend to believe. He also seems to have somehow managed to hide the fact that his loyalty to the man was on the decline from the man in question. And especially the words you know what you did have me deeply curious.
I always believed Potter to be pampered, spoiled, arrogant and rotten to the core with more luck than most students in the entire Great Hall. I always discarded it when others told me to look deeper, to look beyond my own beliefs.
But when a being that is closely tied to Destiny itself creates books about the past, present and future, it's natural for many to feel as if their world has been turned upside down. And if there is one thing I have always done when I felt like this, it's take a look back, observe and then determine the best course of action.
So far I have kept quiet and only commented when I felt it was expected of me. I faked some of the surprise I felt over how Potter responded to me. Though his response to my question when it comes to punishing Malfoy genuinely shocked me. "Potter senior would have publicly humiliated Draco or at least challenged him to an honor duel."
Instead this was done by a man who was apparently the master of many of the new residents. I had hidden my shock when I saw the world famous characters Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy the dog, though I had been unable to hide my awe when I saw the Sorcerer from the Fantasia Movie. And when he came to stand with his student to argue against the article from this morning, the man had taken my breath away with his immense power.
What amazed me the most was the fact that he was obviously holding back on most of his actual strength and magical abilities. Yet the man possessed so much magical power that his aura still felt awe-inspiring in strength. It may not have made me feel as if I was being tested by its might, yet I still felt as if I had been left wanting.
Potter had intrigued me when he denied Dumbledore the chance to partake in deciding Draco's punishment and impressed me when he calmly accepted my demand to partake instead. I'm not sure if the kid realized that he was sending a message to the world to hear about his loyalty to Dumbledore with these actions or not.
When the book described Potter's actions inside the maze I had felt mildly impressed. I had felt a little annoyed when I heard about his makeshift bandage, but I did acknowledge that it was the best he was able to do at the time. Then the two had been Port Keyed away and all had gone to hell in a handbasket in less than a chapter's time.
My role as a spy had been the only reason I hadn't started to rage and curse upon the words Lord Voldemort had returned. Though I had also worked hard to hide how pleased I felt while I listened to Curse Breaker Weasley describe how he is going to ensure that the monster won't return. And very subtly, even though my Sleeping Draught is still working, I have been cursing Crouch Junior to ensure he won't be aware of Weasley's plan once the trap is set for him to fall into.
I really hadn't been surprised that, in the book, I hadn't answered the call. I had however wondered one thing. Had book-me alerted book-Dumbledore about the Dark Lord calling me to him? On one hand I'm sure Dumbledore would be expecting this out of me, on the other I doubt he'll want this out of me when we are both in public.
I had tuned out most of the Dark Lord's monologuing.
While Karkaroff read, I felt that I shared in his awe and his disbelief. Potter was actually actively hiding most of his so-called skill – and yet he was going one on one against the darkest wizard in history, and holding his own.
And then a revelation had left me utterly bewildered and stunned, something that hadn't happened in decades. James Potter, the bane of my teenage existence and the one to drive me into the Dark Lord's services, had sacrificed his very soul, and with it, his chance to exist in the afterlife, just to protect his only son from a monster.
I had hardly heard anything else that Karkaroff read as I had tried to make sense of this, tried to connect this valiant, brave and noble war-hero to the arrogant, brute of a bully that in Hogwarts went on where my Muggle father left off. After a minute or two, I decided I would leave these contemplations for tonight, when I was back in the sanctity and quiet of my own rooms.
Karkaroff holds up the book as he finishes his chapter and reminds us all of the stakes that are still high, even now that the boys – or boy as Book-Diggory is apparently stuck in Limbo – are going back to a location that should have been safe.
The words should have being the problem here.
I see that even a few of my own younger Snakes are being affected by the spell cast upon the book at the start of the previous chapter and, out of nothing other than concern for their well-being and my own desire to just have all of this over with, I take the book.
A few people look at me shocked, but I explain one of my reasons and most nod in understanding. Interestingly enough I sense Dumbledore glaring at me as I can almost feel his stare burning a hole through my hair and into the back of my neck. Yet after the last several years of serving him, I happily take any kind of victory over the man, no matter how small. I read.
Veritaserum
This title concerns and upsets me as I don't like using this very rare and hard to brew potion unless absolutely necessary.
Yet then Potter lets out a loud groan and even slams his head into the table, while still seated closely in-between his new soul-mates. He mumbles a sarcastic word of gratitude over how much the Headmaster cares for him and the whole statement confuses me.
Dumbledore also voices his own confusion and Potter answers: "I have a wounded leg, I have Cruciatus exposure, I just saw a friend get killed and now, probably on your insistence, I'm going to have to listen to a madman rave about everything he did this year to – the boy falters – mess up the school year the way he did.
Why in the name of magic would you consider that, a confession, more important than your student's health?" The question is obviously meant to make everyone turn to the man, yet I notice something else. Potter's tone, while it sounds almost genuinely curious, has a hidden undertone. And this undertone proves that the boy doesn't want to know the answer, he wants others to question the Headmaster about these actions.
Again the boy's words you know what you did ring in my head and again my intrigue reaches a new level. And while I had felt most disgusted and annoyed with the idea of listening to Potter's life story when we started, now I am, somewhat, looking forward to learning about this hidden side of the boy, a side that is very unlike what I know of him.
I spare a quick glance to the side and notice that Dumbledore seems to try and stall for time to give himself a chance to properly answer the very controversial question. I know that I can get one over the man if I indebt him to me, even if it's only by a little, and so I read.
Harry felt … Cedric's body.
In that very moment, Harry didn't care. He would gladly let Dumbledore find out about some of his gifts and secrets. With his face still hidden in the grass, Harry started to beg Hogwarts to use him as a vessel, to transfer the mythical power of the Goblet from it and Hogwarts through him into Cedric.
Anything to feel that spark again that he felt several times that same night.
Nothing happened.
His heart breaking, Harry felt as … them. Shock, anguish and exhaustion … his forehead… all the while he silently kept on begging.
I try with all I have to keep my voice as monotone as possible.
Yet at the same time I feel as if I am back in that cursed cottage, fourteen years ago, seeing the love of my life, the woman who was once a dear sister to me, lying dead on the floor.
I never truly believed Dumbledore's theory about my attempt to have the Dark Monster spare Lily having played a part in Potter's survival. Yes, I loved Lily, but I also wanted her to be happy. It just took me until she was dead and gone before I truly realized that Potter had made her happy. Before then, my disgust with him had always blinded me to this fact.
But when I saw her that night, lying in front of her son's crib and with a look of peaceful acceptance on her face, it had hit me. This was a woman who felt as if she had achieved her life's purpose, who had accomplished her dreams and her heart's desire, who would find peace in the afterlife, just like she had found love and happiness in her marriage.
On the night itself I had not been able to process this as I was too struck by my own grief over her death. But over the years that Potter's fame grew, I reflected upon the past. The past that, I knew, Dumbledore would want me to use as an excuse to make Potter's life miserable.
And while Potter only had moments where he, ever so shortly and ever so infrequently, would remind me of the tormentor that was James Potter, he also often reminded me of my precious Lily.
But what's more, there were so, so, so many times that Potter proved to be his own person. And yet, what always intrigued me the most was that most of the staff – or at least Minerva, Filius, Hagrid and Dumbledore – seemed to turn a blind eye to it.
And because of my role, I pretended to do the same.
Still, there had always been one thing that had fueled my anger against the boy and that made it easy for me to spite and aggravate him. In all the years since Lily's death, I have yet to see the boy visit his mother's grave even once.
For the last fourteen years I've believed this to be due to the boy's arrogance, that he grew up believing in his own hype and his own fame and that he just didn't want to share that honor with anyone, not even the dead.
But now that I am seated here, now that I know that Dumbledore and Potter aren't as close as I always believed them to be, now that I start to wonder if, perhaps, Potter is another pawn on Dumbledore's chessboard, I can't help but wonder if I ever should have laid the blame for that on Potter's shoulders. With this thought, I read.
A torrent … footsteps, screams…
For but a moment, Harry recognized several that were distinctly familiar to him and he focused solely on them and on his pleading. He felt something, but couldn't quite discern what it was as the torrent of sounds was getting louder and closer.
I falter for a moment and think: "It's impossible. There's no way Potter'd be able to bring Diggory back from Limbo." Yet because I know ever so little about Soul Bond magic and even less about Limbo, I hold my silence on my thoughts and just read.
He remained … would pass, as he tried to figure out what the brief sensation had been…
Then a … their footsteps.
Behind Dumbledore Harry saw Ron, Hermione and Mrs. Weasley, who seemed to hesitate between her need to get close and comfort Harry and her respect for Dumbledore.
Potter smiles at the woman over this and says: "I appreciate your care, Mrs. Weasley, and please know, I would always prefer you over the Headmaster. You're the mother of my best friend and while I don't think anyone will ever be able to truly replace my parents in my heart, I would love to start anew with aunts and uncles and the sort."
The woman gives the boy a teary, but loving and grateful smile and while I notice some of my Snakes pretending to barf and throw up, I force my grimace to remain, lest it turns into a grin.
Dumbledore had shown a moment of affront when Potter first spoke up, but when Potter explained himself, he made sure to quickly hide it behind a smile of understanding. Yet anyone who has worked with fakes as long as I have – especially that idiot Lockhart – can recognize this.
What pleases and intrigues me the most is that everyone in the team of Potter's new soul mate also seems onto the Headmaster. Not all of them are looking the man's way or even turned to the Head Table, but I still notice it.
The silver-haired boy named Riku, the brunette named Terra, the blonde named Roxas and the redhead named Axel are all keeping a close eye on us over here at the Head Table; the Headmaster being their main focus.
Their master also deeply intrigues and amuses me, though the amusement is moreso due to a single thought: "His care for his pupils is so genuine, it makes me wonder if it will make others notice that this is not a similarity Dumbledore shares with him. If the ancient man's presence will make the Headmaster have to actually put effort into his act for once." And while I look forward to that potentially happening, I continue my chapter.
He had … stars above.
For just a moment, out of nothing more than sheer instinct, Harry sent a silent plea up to them as well. "Please, I need help." He begged without words, not even sure why he did so, who he hoped to reach or even if his plea would be heard at all.
Instantly Lea turns to the little being that created these books, but the little critter shakes his head. "Remember what William said when he first explained the bond. This situation isn't similar enough to the affects a vampire can have on the bond. Not to mention that, at this point in time, Harry's not strong enough, his battle with Voldemort drained him too much."
Lea grimaces and Potter cuddles with him to reassure him, softly crawling off of Diggory's lap to do this. Yet at the same time I can't help my curiosity from piquing once more. "Was it me – or was that little magic being hinting at things to come?" I wonder to myself as I read on.
Harry let … back. Voldemort."
Yet his eyes weren't on Dumbledore's face. Harry knew better than to look the man in the eye. His head was already hurting from all the loud voices and how harsh the approaching footsteps had slammed into his eardrums, he didn't want whatever magic Dumbledore would try to cast wandlessly to add to that.
"ALBUS PERCIVAL WULFRIC BRIAN DUMBLEDORE! THAT BETTER NOT MEAN WHAT I THINK IT MEANS!"
In that instance Molly Weasley proves that she no longer shares her book-counterpart's hesitancy to respect the man over her need to care for Potter. Instead, the mother of seven looks ready to make the Headmaster swallow every bit of silverware in the Great Hall if her beliefs about his suspected actions is indeed confirmed.
Yet while she had jumped, her son had drawn his wand and cast a quick spell on Lupin and Black. A soundproof bubble had popped up around the two and Lupin had sent the eldest of the redheads a grateful smile as the bubble popped up right as the woman opened her mouth.
Then William stands up alongside his mother and states: "Whether it means what we believe or not doesn't matter anymore. No mother, it doesn't. The Soul bond, now that it's in the first stage of acceptance between Harry and Lea, works as a counter.
It doesn't create a barrier within Harry to shield him from this kind of magic, so to say, but it does act as a warning system. Anytime that this kind of magic starts to affect Harry, Lea will instantly know. And as they increase their bond, their closeness and take further steps to solidify the soul bond, they'll be able to help each other resist such magics more and more easily."
The words calm his mother, as well as various others, down, even though Filius hisses at Dumbledore that he got off the hook, this time. I want to smirk at the fact that Dumbledore's reputation just got a mayor blow dealt to it, but instead my focus is elsewhere.
This whole time William had been referring to the whole thing as this form of magic. But just like with Chirithy when he was speaking to Lea and Potter when he addressed Dumbledore at the start of the chapter, there was a hidden tone to his voice.
"William knows. He knows exactly what Dumbledore had been doing. But why wouldn't he address that as such? Why evade the issue like this?" And just like when I first had the redhead as my pupil in class, something I had deeply worried about as I hadn't heard the best of stories about the Weasleys before I started teaching, he intrigues me as I read.
"What's going … Diggory! Dead!"
In his head, Harry kept on his begging and pleading. The words and statements of the other students, somehow, increased his desperate desire to feel it again, to feel that strange spark of a sensation he had felt when he had pushed his body into Cedric's in a desperate attempt to save him.
A lot of those in the hall around me are crying. Even those who are obviously affected by Chirithy's spell don't need to hear my words to know what I'm reading about, they won't need their classmates to give them an abbreviated version of these events later.
Yet what intrigues me is Diggory himself. The boy should be grimacing, heartbroken and full of despair over the fact that his death – in book – is hurting his soul mate this much. But instead a peaceful and proud smile adorns the boy's face. "What do you know that I don't?" I think, yet then I wonder if he perhaps realizes what I did about Limbo.
When the Goblet of Fire had spat out Diggory's name, I had been slightly disgruntled but not surprised. Even Hufflepuffs that do well in my class hardly ever take my class after their OWLs. Regardless of the fact that I don't even go down on them as harshly as I do on the Lions that annoy me the most.
Yet for the past year Diggory has been the only Badger in my class and he has the same work ethic, dedication and determination to pass my class as most of my own Snakes. He even equals my best Sixth Year Snake, Miles Bletchley, who, despite his disregard for fair play, apparently respects Diggory enough not to attempt to sabotage his work.
So the notion that Diggory might be aware of Potter having saved his soul from death and placed it in Limbo instead is very likely. At the same time I can't imagine the lad being okay with this. He is basically, somehow, at peace with being stuck in between life and death.
Yet again my respect for his rises as I read on.
"Harry, let … him go. Just one more moment, just one more try to again feel that temporary spark, that sensation of which the origin and nature still alluded Harry's addled mind.
At this the Diggories finally move, something I had expected them to do sometime ago now. They stand up and apologize to Pomona before they move over to the Gryffindor table. The woman named Aqua, who had been seated next to Diggory, moves alongside the Chasers. Yet while Mrs. Diggory goes to sit on her son's right, Mr. Diggory politely tells the man named Lea: "I'm sorry, I'd like to sit next to my son-in-law, if you don't mind."
And just like his wife when the woman called the man Potter's future father-in-law, Potter seems almost unable to comprehend that anyone would consider him family in such a way.
Those around him notice this, just like I do, and I know they are just as curious about the origins behind this as I am. Yet Lea accepts the request and moves to make space between himself and his soul mate. And while the Diggory boy smiles at his father, I read on.
Then Dumbledore's … Harry swayed, yet at the same time his grip on Cedric didn't waver and with a last ditch effort, he pulled so that Cedric's head rested on his shoulder.
This was a mistake.
His head was pounding. His bandage had come off during the trip back and his injured leg would no longer support his weight.
Cedric's body slipped from his grip as Harry attempted to keep standing and the sound of his body falling on the ground was reverberated in Harry's ears by what sounded like his own heart breaking.
Again I falter as, again, I feel as if I am back in that dread room. Potter describing how it felt to let go off one of his soul mates reminds me of how I felt, when I laid down Lily's body with the need to ensure that no one would ever know I was there.
I spare a quick glance at my Snakes, yet none of them seem to care that I have temporarily stopped. Only Draco looks slightly curious at me, but thankfully he is polite and honorable enough to keep his mouth shut. And so I open mine.
The crowd … would prefer-"
"Called it." Potter snarks loudly, while many glare at Dumbledore. The man grimaces, yet I notice that the twinkle in his eyes isn't up to their usual standard. The man really is having trouble keeping up his persona. Because of how close I am seated to him, I too work hard to keep my face passive as I don't want to give away to the man how much I am enjoying his discomfort.
"Dumbledore, Amos … stay here -"
"Harry dear, I have always been very loyal to Dumbledore and believed that he often knew what was best for you, my kids and the other students at Hogwarts. But in this case, I implore you, dear, disobey his orders. Get yourself to safety."
The fact that Molly Weasley of all people is saying this speaks volumes that I doubt even the woman herself is able to comprehend, regardless of how she started her statement. And the fact that Nella Diggory, Pomona, Irma Prince, Poppy and even Mrs. Krum nod their heads in agreement emphasizes the importance of this moment.
I can't help myself and look at little Chirithy, who has amusingly enough, situated himself on top of the head of the boy named Ventus. "You wanted this. This is why you created these books. You wanted the world to see what only those who know what to look for can see."
I raise the book a little higher to hide my grin and read on.
Girls were … than ever.
Yet at the same time he said it more for the sake of being heard by those near him, so they could warn Dumbledore that someone was disobeying his orders, than out of a need to obey them himself.
The Weasley twins chorus the question of whether or not it might have been them. Igor snorts besides me and states: "I doubt it. It's probably the frozen sundae of madness over here."
The twins grimace and one of them says: "Way to be a killjoy, Headmaster." And the other continues: "Yeah, way to continue where your former master left off." Igor had wanted to argue with the first of the two, yet he winces at the words of the other.
I shake my head at him and read.
"You need … the castle. He spotted a blurry version of Alicia and of Luna and sent them both desperate looks to convey that this wasn't entirely by his own will, that something might be wrong.
A lot of the adults, mostly those who played an active role in fighting against the Dark Beast and his minions, nod in pride at this. Yet I wonder why Dumbledore, in the book, didn't pay closer attention to his star pupil. For a moment a horrifying thought enters my mind and I resume my reading hurriedly. I need to know if I'm right.
Across the … Lord Voldemort…"
A strange need to return to the pitch, to Cedric, overwhelmed him for a moment and he stumbled.
Clunk. Clunk. … killed Cedric…"
The need returned and he almost tripped.
"And then?" … and dad… and Cedric too … they came … what happened…"
"I hate this. Alastor would have the same need to know and understand, so we won't really suspect anything about him taking Mr. Potter away. But the real Alastor wouldn't be this pushy with someone who's just been traumatized. But we don't know about this as we might still be back on the pitch. At least unless Miss Lovegood and Miss Spinnet managed to inform us." Minerva mutters to herself in distress before I read on with a grimace on my face.
Moody helped … his throat.
Molly Weasley turns to me and worriedly asks if the fluid might be Pepper-Up Potion. I nod and then, in a moment of courageous inspiration that I am sure would have made precious Lily very proud if she was here, I state:
"Like the Headmaster, though obviously for very different reasons and due to very different beliefs, Crouch Junior would have had an insane desire to know everything about his precious master. Though the title obviously proves that we might not learn anything – yet."
I am well aware that Dumbledore is hiding how furious he is that I compared him to a Death Eater, but I don't care. I'm also sure that I secured myself a bit of an alibi and a leeway by pointing out their differing beliefs and reasons. Even if deep down I don't believe those reasons to be as different as I made them out to be before I read on.
Moody's office … Quidditch field.
Slowly Harry felt the mindset with which he had entered said pitch only hours ago – or perhaps even only an hour ago or less – return to him.
The hall is very mixed about this. Some of my Snakes look as if they have trouble believing that this will make any difference. Some of the others look as if they agree with Potter's belief in regards to how much time might have passed. And others, mostly those close to Potter, seem relieved that their friend might have another chance.
With these mixed emotions running through the hall, I read the chapter.
"What did … low hiss.
Harry noticed that he didn't do anything to stem the bleeding and for a moment, the hair at the back of his neck rose up. Was this negligence on Moody's part, was he too focused on learning more to realize his little error or was something else going on?
Minerva looks at Crouch, who is luckily enough still deeply asleep according to my latest scan-spell, and growls: "I know that we already know that it's not Alastor, but this just proves it. Whenever a Death Eater raid was over and the scum had fled, Alastor was always the one to direct people towards tending to the wounded and he always prioritized the children. The younger they were, the higher their priority in Alastor's eyes.
He even temporarily adopted two toddlers for a few months after their parents had been killed in a raid back in '78. No way he wouldn't take Potter to the Hospital Wing upon seeing that wound." Those that had worked with Moody, including Lupin who is out of the soundproof bubble, nod in agreement and I read on.
"And the … suddenly remembered. And due to the situation he was in and how weird it all felt, he decided to test the waters – in the most traumatized Gryffindor way possible.
"There's a … back down.
Instantly Harry knew that the moment from before wasn't a mistake on Moody's part. Something was wrong here. And thankfully, Harry had landed with his hand on his pocket, where his wand was kept.
My eyes widen at this and Karkaroff mutters: "Either he's too obsessed with learning about what happened or –." Yet thankfully the man doesn't voice this thoughts. He doesn't tell the school at large that Junior is just playing with Potter and trying to give the boy a false sense of security.
I silently thank him for this, yet then spare a glance at the man in question. I remember the two crazy spiels he had sprouted each time he was awake and my belief that it might be the former has me read on with a sense of relief.
"I know … locked up?"
Harry didn't believe that Karkaroff was the one. His behavior in the memory of his trial, which Harry had witnessed a few weeks ago in Dumbledore's Pensieve proved this. But he needed a little more time to plan an escape, so he needed to keep the imposter distracted.
"Karkaroff?" said … his enemies."
At this the ancient Sorcerer stands up and moves over to Igor. He bends himself over the man's seat and while they are seated next to me, I can't hear a word they're saying.
The fact that, while he hadn't held a wand or even whispered an incantation, the ancient wizard had made sure his conversation with the Bulgarian Headmaster was private, astounds me.
After a moment or two Igor gives the ancient man a grateful nod and he turns to his students at my table. Yet Krum stands up and states: "We of Durmstrang wish you the best of luck, yet we pray that you will only take this method if Curse Breaker Weasley fails in his plan."
Igor nods his consent and I read.
"Karkaroff's gone? … at Harry.
Harry felt his wand fly out of his pocket and heard it land somewhere behind him. Yet while he showed a sense of disbelief, he wasn't afraid.
"He forgave … said Harry, acting up the disbelief to make sure the imposter would underestimate him.
He was … at him. He had the craziest escape plan ever in mind, but for that to work, he needed the imposter to come closer.
"I asked … talking about…?"
Harry didn't care, not really. But the chess-mind that Ron had trained him to have was working overtime. He remembered Dumbledore's Pensieve and believed that a memory of the man's confession might help – once he got himself out of the madman's grasp.
Harry didn't know who this was, but he knew one thing. This man was responsible for Cedric's death. And he would pay.
The majority of the hall nods in furious agreement to this, yet then the Minister stands up and states: "While I can empathize with all of your need to see justice done, I implore and beg of all of you. Leave this man to the authorities."
Yet to this someone shouts: "But this bastard already escaped Azkaban once and no one even knew about it. You can't seriously expect us to accept that you'll just send him back there."
Fudge grimaces, but then the Master speaks up and says: "No, you will not have to accept this. In our universe, there are worlds that are bathed in the light and worlds that are covered in Darkness. Once the Ministry has truly uncovered all that this man has done, I will personally transport him to one such world.
One where he will spend the rest of his days in solitude and far away from that which he desires the most; the ability to return and aid his precious master. Soon that anguish will consume him and he will lose his heart to the darkness within. When this happens, I will send Axel to go after him."
I certainly wonder why the man chose said redhead for the job, yet at the same time I find his decision for a verdict very pleasing and very satisfying. Dumbledore tries to intervene and asks if it really would be wise to scar young Axel with such a task. Yet the redhead shrugs and says: "It's no problem. Wouldn't be the first assassination I committed for the sake of my friends."
This shocks a lot of those around him and Riku states: "Right, back in Castle Oblivion, you had to eliminate several rogue members of Organization XIII because they wanted to manipulate and use Sora for their own nefarious goals. And you had to fight Marluxia to free Naminé, who was his and Larxene's prisoner."
A lot of the students are shocked and in awe about what was just said. Yet my colleagues seem to only grimace as they are probably comparing this situation to when they were fighting Death Eaters during the war. I myself feel both awed and slightly concerned with how callous the silver-haired teen speaks about all of this before I read on.
"I told … insane smile. Yet he wasn't quite close enough. Just a little closer.
My eyes widen as I realize what Potter might be planning. Igor whispers the words He isn't, yet I can't help but think: "We didn't think that Potter would be able to go one on one with the Dark Lord or escape him, regardless of the other books. Who's to say that this crazy plan of his won't work as well?" I try not to hope as I read.
"Tell me … be you…"
Harry noticed that his words of feigned confusion made Moody step closer and closer. His wand was already within reach, but Harry needed it closer for his plan to work.
"Who put … I did"
A few of the students who had apparently fallen victim to the man's warding off techniques shudder in remembrance. Instantly Poppy is flying across the hall and diagnosing several of them. She mutters underneath her breath and I know she's giving instructions to the House Elves in the kitchens to provide her patients with what they need.
I have no doubt that the woman feels somewhat lost without her precious Hospital Wing within her reach and that she's probably wishing she could send at least some of these students there. But if she did, they'd fall victim to the time spell, so the woman does the best she can. And I follow her example as I continue to read.
The man's magical eye … than ever. The wand's tip was above Harry's knee. Harry needed the whole wand to be above his leg for this to work. Almost there.
This confuses me as just the element of surprise should make Crouch let go off the wand as soon as Potter grabs it. "Is Potter trying to give him a false sense of security by not going for the wand when Junior most expects it?" Someone asks, yet Potter himself shakes his head and mutters: "No, I'm going to bring honor to my upbringing."
Yet the boy's not smirking as he says this. Instead he grimaces, as if he's disgusted with himself that his book-self resorted to a technique like this. This confuses me as Potter has yet to strike me as someone who would be against using Muggle means to achieve victory. Yet again my annoyance with the boy is replaced with curiosity as I read.
"It hasn't … said hoarsely. The imposter had stopped moving close and was watching Harry closely. Harry needed him to take only two more steps. He did something that tore at his heart as he yelled, "Cedric gave … manipulate, Potter.
"Not half as easy as those who are too focused on their own goals to see outside of their plans or beliefs. A narrow-minded focus is always more dangerous than a loyal heart." Master Yen Sid declares and I sincerely agree with his words as I read on.
I was … you remember?
Longbottom whitens something horribly and Poppy growls for a House Elf to hand her that book. Yet nothing happens and William reminds her that the book is outside of the Time Spell zone. If the House Elf tries to fetch it, he will get stuck within the time spell. Poppy grimaces and she hurriedly alters her orders. "Get me that book once the reading is over."
I roll my eyes as I notice that Granger is glaring at the woman in furious distaste, yet Spinnet is seated next to her and the elder Chaser is whispering all kinds of things in the girl's ear to keep her calm. I want to shake my head at her cluelessness yet focus instead on the book in front of me.
While at the same time Ronald and young Kairi focus on reassuring and comforting Longbottom, who slowly regains color on his face.
Magical Water … Harry's heart. Harry was purposely tensing and slacking his upper body, as if he was switching between tensing his body in anger and slacking in shock. Yet this was all to keep the imposter distracted from how, slowly, Harry's foot was creeping across the floor. If only Moody would take one more step he'd be in range.
Minerva winces and mutters how this plan will fail as Alastor had enchanted his pegleg to be trip-proof. But Potter shrugs and asks a very telling question: "Who says I want to trip him up?" A lot of students gape at him over this and I return to the chapter hurriedly.
"You were … clear." Harry felt a burst of relief at hearing that Fleur had only been stunned. At the same time the imposter had taken another step towards Harry.
"The Dark … to," whispered the imposter. He was finally where Harry wanted him to be. "Imagine how … a son…"
The imposter's normal eye … was barred, and yet Harry was ready. He had everything just the way he wanted it to be. It was time for revenge. This was going to be for Cedric.
"The Dark Lord and I," said the imposter, and he … Dark Order!"
"Wait a sec. Something's not right here. Back in the day, Voldemort would do anything to keep people from learning about his Muggle past. But anyone who's a Pureblood would know that Riddle is a Muggle name. So why would Voldemort tell one of his followers about his backstory if it would just risk his role as the savior of the Pureblood regime?"
Potter suddenly asks, while moments earlier I had been beyond shocked at the realization of what Potter was actually planning. Dumbledore sighs and says: "That is easy, dear boy. You just need to remember what I told you a few years ago. Lord Voldemort has as much mercy for his victims as he does his followers.
I do not believe that Lord Voldemort intended for Barty Crouch Junior to return to his side. In fact, I am certain that he planned for Barty to die, either after he ended you himself or, if by any kind of luck, chance or sign of skill and talent, you had managed to defy him.
If anything, I'm afraid that Barty is the one misunderstanding his own master right here. He believes that Lord Voldemort will reward Barty for killing you, but he fails to remember and realize how determined and driven Lord Voldemort is to do so himself."
I let the man talk, not because I want to understand or hear his beliefs, but because of what's actually going on. The man may not pay notice to this – or even care for it – but the callous way with which he describes Voldemort's desire to see one of his own students killed is doing serious damage to his reputation. Many stare at him horrified over this as I read on.
"You're mad," … conquer you!"
In that single moment, Harry struck. With all his might he launched his good leg straight up between the legs of the imposter, who howled over his cry of, "This is for you, Cedric!" But as he pulled the wand out of the grasp and got ready to cast a curse, something happened.
"Stupefy!" There … office floor and another piece of wood stabbed Harry in the spot of his wounded arm and made him drop the wand in pain. It rolled away from where he stood.
It takes everything I have not to glare at Dumbledore over this last bit. I am trying with all my might to keep a satisfied grin on my face over Potter's actions instead.
"You sick, twisted bastard. You had that piece of wood aimed at Potter's arm on purpose. That way Potter would look shocked and vulnerable and you'd look like the hero who came to save him. And thanks to your blasted fire bird, the wound can be healed and no one will ever know."
Yet I read on as I take satisfaction – out of the fact that this isn't true anymore.
Harry, still … place where the imposter's face had … was visible. Harry silently hoped that the man would make the mistake of believing the painful wince on the imposter's face was because of how roughly he had been thrown across the room, not because of what Harry had done previously.
A lot of grins and smirks are on the faces of the students in front of me. Interestingly enough neither the visiting mothers, Minerva or even Irma and Poppy seem willing to reprimand these kids. And considering that the Weasley menaces are two of the students with leering grins of victorious delight proves everything as I read on.
Snape followed … to cry as she summoned his wand from across the room for him. "Come along… hospital wing…""No," said Dumbledore sharply.
Instantly Harry was onto him and the awe he felt at seeing Dumbledore's power was matched by his disgust over the man's continuous need to manipulate him and his life.
"Dumbledore, he … Harry said. He was already well aware that, like Harry himself, Dumbledore had waited for the opportune moment to strike. But where Harry had needed the man completely off kilter, Dumbledore could have cast his spell at any moment. Yet Harry knew he had a role to play now. And he played it.
Dumbledore actually has the audacity to glare at Harry, yet the boy states: "Prove me wrong. Or better said, prove me wrong, once the book proves just why I believe this. Why I feel the way I feel." And with this he takes Dumbledore the chance to defend himself.
Over the last four years I have slowly started to truly despise and feel annoyed with Potter, especially because he truly seemed to have been turned into Dumbledore's lapdog, not unlike that oaf, Hagrid. But now that I see the evidence of this not being the case, I can't help myself.
The pride I felt for Lily I now feel for her son as I read on.
"How can … I followed."
Harry was sure this wasn't the case. He spared a glance at McGonagall, who looked a mixture of horrified and incredulous. He wondered what had really happened and how long it had taken Dumbledore to get McGonagall and Snape on board.
Suddenly a thought struck him.
Dumbledore had indeed realized that the imposter was pretending to be Moody, but not entirely for the reasons he was telling Harry. There was more to that story, but it didn't matter.
Harry cursed himself as he realized what had probably happened. Instead of contacting the Headmaster, either Luna or Alicia had probably tried to contact McGonagall. But just like in Harry's first, the woman had needed time to be convinced. And thus Dumbledore had swooped in and only cast his spell – once he had his faithful staff at his side, ready to back him up in case necessary.
And Dumbledore had seen his chance to play the hero role and taken it. Suddenly Harry wondered about that bit of wood that had hit him. The fact that it was aimed at one of the two spots where he was vulnerable was – suspicious.
Dumbledore actually tries to argue this and he states that Potter knows he would never purposely hurt him. Yet Potter sends him a disbelieving stare and makes a single-worded statement. "Fawkes." Instantly everyone who knows how phoenixes work realize what the boy means and I again raise the book to hide my grin while I read.
Dumbledore bent down over the imposter's limp form … called Winky.
These last three words cause Potter to gasp in horrified shock. He turns to Dumbledore and whispers: "You monster." Yet this time Dumbledore looks genuinely confused. Still Potter actually scuttles closer to Amos, who quickly wraps a protective arm around him as I read on.
Minerva, kindly … the office. Harry hated the idea that he was alone in the office with the man, but didn't believe Dumbledore would try anything. Any unusual behavior from a traumatized student would raise suspicions. Plus Dumbledore seemed to have other priorities right now.
Dumbledore sighs, yet the man is obviously back to acting up his persona as he tiredly asks Potter whether or not the boy trusts him. I notice Potter's wand hand twitching, yet it's not inching towards his pocket. I realize he must be trying not to summon his newest weapon.
At the same time he really doesn't have to. The tone of his voice and three words he speaks are weapons enough and they strike home with cold ferocity. "No, I don't." I don't allow Dumbledore to argue this statement and read on.
Dumbledore walked … Cloak. Harry had spotted a crooked stool near him and slumped down on the seat. If needed he would use the stool the same way he had used his leg earlier. For now his placement on the stool created some distance between him and the headmaster without it looking too far away or suspicious.
A lot of students and even a few members of staff are astounded that Potter is thinking of assaulting the Headmaster like that. Yet while Dumbledore tries to hide how he wants to fume in anger over this, I read on.
As I do, I notice something very intriguing. Not even Minerva seems interested in reprimanding her student over having these thoughts.
Still he watched, astounded … each time. Harry wondered faintly if the real Moody would thank Dumbledore for showing his private content to a random student.
Minerva intrigues and amazes me yet again as she turns to Dumbledore in anger and snarls: "No, he wouldn't, and you know that. You should have realized when you got a hold of those keys that Junior had broken all of Alastor's protective enchantments. You took advantage of your friend having been held hostage, Albus. I can't even describe with words how wrong that is."
Normally the woman would finish her statement with the order to apologize or the desire that the person in the wrong would feel remorse. But this time she doesn't and just turns her back on him. And the fact that she is denying him the chance to defend himself speaks volumes as I read the one I hold in my hands.
Then he … of amazement.
Even from where he had gone to stand up from his seat, he was looking … missing. Harry, who was standing on the other side of the trunk, stared, thunderstruck, … the unconscious imposter lying on … immediate danger."
"For your sake, your book-self better be right, sir." I wince as Poppy hardly ever addresses anyone as just sir or ma'am. In all the years I've worked with her, I've never irked her that much, though the same can't be said for the parents of some of my snakes when they were her patients.
Yet this time Dumbledore tries to defend himself, though his defense is feeble at best. "My dear Poppy, please remember the Time spell that is on the world right now. Alastor is in no state that you can't remedy, I'm sure of it."
Yet just like when he spoke of the Dark Being's desire to see Potter killed, he again seems oblivious to how he, again, ruined his own reputation. The man may be speaking the truth, but that he is hiding behind a spell created by a magical being from another world proves his desperation and his actual lack of care. I read on, while filled with glee from within.
Harry did … floor. Harry returned to his own crooked seat and stared at … in class.
At this I wince as I had forgotten about that mistake of mine. A shiver of fear runs down my spine when I see Minerva and Poppy glaring at me in the same rage they were glaring at Dumbledore just previous. Yet that's not the only thing that scares me.
A pair of growls are heard coming from the Gryffindor Table and I silently gulp as I realize that, at some point during the reading, Black has woken up.
Then, just because I feel sure that my time enjoying Dumbledore's protection will soon be over, I do the only sensible thing. I put the book down and state: "Miss Bones, please inform your aunt that I too wish to meet with her and that I will be willing to give a full explanation behind my actions of that day at said meeting."
The majority of the student body gape at me over this, yet I don't care for them. I spot acceptance in the eyes of my colleagues and while Black and Lupin are still furiously glaring at me, they nod to convey the same. I take the book once again and raise it up to hide my sigh of relief before I continue the chapter.
Dumbledore got … them all. Though at the same time Harry noticed that their visages were slightly blurry, it really was just their facial characteristics that made him know it was them. That and the fact that the three of them were in the room right then. Winky remained … from Azkaban?"
Mrs. Diggory shakes her head at this and growls: "This is completely unnecessary. For Magic's sake, Dumbledore, you have a Pensieve. You could have just let Minerva take Harry to the Hospital Wing and invite him to your office to see this memory when you felt he was ready. The only thing you're really doing here is furthering his emotional trauma."
Then something happens I really didn't expect.
"My book-self has already explained his reasons and I stand by them. Not to mention that we have much more pressing matters to concern ourselves with, such as Lord Voldemort's return. That, after all I'm sure, is the whole reason that little Chirithy had Harry create these books.
It is as our little friend said. We are walking down a path of Darkened Light. It is now very clear to me that this path is set by our attempts to end Lord Voldemort once and for all. So if we can learn how we failed in these attempts – or how these attempts affected us – we can ensure that we will not make said mistakes. Now let us read on."
I have always prided myself, at least since the end of the war and when I started my role as a spy, on my ability to keep my emotions under control or to only show the emotions I believed could benefit said role as spy for the Light.
But not this time.
I am openly gaping at the man, who calmly sits down, seems to ignore how I am not the only one staring at him and who is instead silently imploring me to follow his orders. I turn back to the book and focus on it, but not out of a necessity to follow his orders.
Instead I think: "You really have gone mad and given up on the need to hide this. Either that or you're too arrogant for your own good and believe that your little distraction will indeed make all these people forget about what we've read so far.
But for you to think that you understand Chirithy's motives for the creation of the books and to think that they are in your benefit …." All I can do is mentally shake my head as I read.
Crouch took … Moody said.
Black shakes his head at hearing this and Lupin asks him: "Remember how much Charlus was against Crouch's decision to give the Aurors permission to use those spells?" But Black keeps shaking his head and with a hollow voice he says:
"No, I don't."
Lupin looks at him shocked and horrified and Black fishes something out of the robe he's wearing. A black choker with a blue, white and black gem hanging from the choker is in his hand and he whispers hollowly:
"Two years after my incarceration, when I realized that no one was coming to free me and sensed the Dementors trying to go after my memories of Harry as a baby, I wore this choker for the last time. Instead of giving all of those wonderful memories to those – those – I hid them all in here. I let a few of them back into my mind since my escape, but – probably not even 5% of what's inside it right now. If I can't have these memories, no one can."
For the second time in only a few minutes I lose my composure and gape at Black. Just like when I heard about Potter's true sacrifice, the man's statement clashes with what I always knew and believed about him, clashes with the irresponsible brat that made my time at Hogwarts miserable.
"How did these two grow up without me noticing?" I can't help but think while Lupin pulls Black close against his form in comfort. Potter also leaves his seat to join the two and Black happily pulls his godson close as I read.
"I was … good behavior."
"That reminds me, why was Mr. Charlus against Crouch's decision?" The Gryffindor Patil asks her former teacher curiously. Her Ravenclaw twin sends her a proud nod.
Lupin quickly checks to see if Black is okay with him explaining this and then he proves that this Charlus person was truly a war-genius. "The Unforgiveables take your humanity away if you manage to be able to cast them. Most Death Eaters were able to do so, yet their masks would often hide their identities. It's what always added to the fear factor of the war.
Crouch giving his Aurors this kind of permission basically gave the Death Eaters the open invitation to come spy on them. Their ability to cast these spells wouldn't be questioned if it meant less Death Eaters out there to cause terror and death. This gave them the perfect chance to infiltrate the Ministry and weaken it from within."
Bagman and Fudge are gaping at the man horrified and Lupin shakes his head as he goes on: "After the war was over and Crouch rescinded the permission granted, the majority of the new recruits suddenly resigned and then disappeared off the face of the earth.
Of course they did. Better be hidden away somewhere than be found out for the spying scumbags they are and share the fate of monsters like Bellatrix Lestrange." I really don't feel personally attacked at the spying scumbags comment and share Longbottom's agreement on what Lupin calls Lestrange before I read on.
"Master Barty … the house-elf?"
For some reason Potter sighs in relief at hearing this. A lot of people turn to him at this, but the boy shakes his head. Yet Ronald seems to get what his friend is thinking as his eyes widen momentarily. I suppress my own curiosity and just read.
"Yes," said … said Dumbledore.
Harry had his hands clasped together behind his back. The fingers of his left hand dug into the flesh of his right. Dumbledore wouldn't have asked about the World Cup unless he had heard Junior rave about it before Dumbledore came in. Dumbledore had indeed been waiting for the perfect moment to strike and now he was just milking it for all its worth.
"Do you truly believe that, dear boy?" Dumbledore asks, his persona of a caring, concerned grandfather figure back in full blast.
Potter carelessly leans his head on his hand as he says: "Debatable. If you had known of it sooner, wouldn't it have been better to capture and question Crouch the minute you started to suspect him about this? Unless, of course, you had a reason to keep a man like Junior in a school full of innocent children."
Every adult eye turns to the man, who tries not to growl as he says: "I suppose we will never know. This book is, after all, in your point of view." Again I can't believe how flimsy the man's excuse is and take delight in seeing that others feel the same.
For a moment I wonder if the man tried to bring Harry's point of view and personal beliefs into account. But even if that was the case, it seems to have only worked with a rare few of those around me before I read on.
"Winky talked … the end.
At this, while I know it's a risk, I decide to take action. I lower the book and growl: "And how did you repay that sacrifice, Mr.I-suck-at-pretending-to-be-asleep?" Everyone looks at the frozen man besides me and a lot of them yelp in fright when he goes from snoring to glaring at me in raging fury and he snarls: "Silence, you disgusting filthy traitor!"
Yet I just sneer at him and say: "The only traitor I see is you. I may have always hated my father, but I know my mother died protecting me from most of his wrath. And unlike you, I respect that sacrifice and don't just try to use a losing method to honour that. Let alone one that contradicts the wishes and beliefs of my mother.
And that is your biggest problem and your worst mistake, Barty. You are so blindly focused on your father and replacing him with someone else, you forget entirely that you even have a mother. One that loved you until her very dying day. But we both know, Barty. We both know that he will never do for you what she did. Deep down, you know that as well as I."
Crouch seems so full of fury and hate that he can't even utter a word. And while the emotions in his eyes are slightly frightening, I don't let them get to me. I hold strong to the knowledge that I am right. To the belief that, because he also knows that I'm right, he's unable to form a proper argument to my words and statements.
Then I hear Kairi's voice from the Gryffindor Table and she cries: "Thunder!" And while the sky shown in the enchanted ceiling is perfectly clear, a bolt of thunder shoots down from the ceiling and strikes the man. He cries out for a moment and then his head falls down.
Instantly, because I see Dumbledore jumping up and turning to young Kairi himself, I press my fingers to Junior's neck and detect a pulse. And right when Kairi wants to argue Dumbledore's accusation that she killed the man, I snap: "He's out cold. The thunder was powerful, but it would seem that the ice he's in took the majority of the power."
Yet while I say this, I glance at the young woman. And my gaze conveys to her that I don't believe this to be true, that I am covering for her. The girl shrugs, but in her shrug I notice her hiding a grateful nod. I smirk and continue to read.
"It was … boys pocket.
Potter shudders something horrible, obviously disgusted with the notion that he had been that close to a monster like Junior and the fact that Junior had used the boy's wand for his own nefarious means. I really can't blame the boy for his disgust.
Black gently guides the boy until Potter is between him and Lupin and whispers: "The minute Amelia declares me innocent, I'm buying you a wand holster." Lupin nods and states that he will join them to protect Black from those who might not believe in his innocence right away. Potter sends them both a grateful smile.
But then Fudge stands up and states: "There will be no need to wait for Amelia, though I will be sure to inform her at earliest convenience. I have been in charge of Black's case since his escape and so I have no problem making this declaration."
But then, shockingly enough, Potter stands up and says: "No Minister, don't! If you declare Sirius innocent now and, as I'm sure you were planning, put the guilt of his crimes on Pettigrew, he will surely feel that. And with the Third Task so close by, Bill's plans and Voldemort's own, we can't arouse their suspicions, not now.
Wait till the Task is over, please!"
Everyone stares at the boy, shocked that he stopped Fudge from his declaration and in awe over his clever thinking and ability to put himself in his enemy's shoes. Yet I only need to glance to the center of the Head Table to know how Potter attained this skill.
Fudge falters and hesitates and asks Black if he's okay with this. Black grins down at the boy between him and Lupin and states: "I've waited almost 14 years for this day. A few more hours where I can only unofficially consider myself innocent don't matter to me." Fudge nods and I read.
I had … to her.
"One should never underestimate our loyal House Elves. They are so much more than most of us give them credit for." The young Lovegood girl, who I have always respected for her resilience against her many bullies, states dreamily.
A lot of those around her look at her weirdly. But while I notice Potter and most of those around him nodding in agreement, I also notice a hint of fear in Potter's eyes.
It hits me. Potter's little help in the books is a House Elf, one who works for Hogwarts, but who is more loyal to Potter than to Dumbledore.
At the same time, while I return everyone's attention back to the book – and hide a smirk at Granger being silenced by Spinnet, I can't help but feel as if there is more to Lovegood's words than meets the eye. As if they are, I fear, a premonition for what is yet to come – or perhaps something we will read about at some point in these books.
She pulled … to speak.
Harry silently agreed and emphasized with her. He felt the same way.
And I hardly need to glance over the top of the book to know that many, even those who are unable to hear what is being said, feel the same as well. Though some of them seem slightly disgruntled that they are either emphasizing with a House Elf or Potter.
"It was … remained calm.
Yet Harry, who spared a glance at the man, noticed it.
The twinkle in his eyes had been replaced with a thoughtful glint. Dumbledore was listening, but at the same time, he wasn't. He was planning ahead. Harry, involuntarily, stepped a little closer to Professor McGonagall. He might not always trust her, but he was sure she would keep him safe, regardless of the danger source.
And to the shock of now only a few, Minerva actually gives a nod of agreement to this. Even Dumbledore stares at her, but the woman fells him with her usual stern gaze and states: "Your House is like your Family. I may not always be able to be there for my cubs, but they are still such, my cubs." Most of Gryffindor House smiles at her gratefully at this as I read.
"Wormtail and … the dustbins.
Just like I expected Mrs. Weasley screeches in fright over this, but her son quickly embraces her and whispers: "Junior didn't do anything, mum. Remember this already happened. Not to mention that Junior trying anything would risk their plan. Junior was too devoted to his master to wish such a thing. Dad was safe, mum. He was safe." The woman calms down and I read on.
Then I … was ill.
"I hate having to worry Mrs. Weasley after what Bill just said, but – I think we better get the people who received those letters checked. Voldemort might have cast spells on those letters to keep said people from questioning things, maybe even worse. He – he could have even tried to use those letters to – to twist the minds of the receivers; to make them more susceptible to join his side, to betray their loved ones on the Light Side."
Instantly Fudge wants to jump up and make another declaration, but he falters. He seems to remember Potter's earlier words and so he sits down and writes on his parchment furiously. And even from where I'm seated, I can read the words paid leave… paid mental care … St. Mungo's bills fully compensated. I know the Weasleys will be very grateful for this as I read.
But Wormtail … is this?"
Harry felt a silent mix of glee and disgust. Dumbledore hadn't known about the Marauder's Map, the map his father had made in his own youth and that Harry had received from the Weasley twins just last year. Yet at the same time he was annoyed that his secret weapon was no longer secret.
"Potter's map … after Snape.
Black growls and groans. He turns to Lupin and says: "We should've altered the Map. It should have been able to show the two different generations. Damnit Remus, if that damned thing had shown this right from the start, pup would have made his realization long before the Second Task. Then all of this could have been prevented."
Lupin grimaces while I notice Dumbledore almost looking gleeful, as if he's enjoying it that someone else is being blamed for things instead of him. The elder man does try to mask this, but it's in vain as the smirk is almost clear to see, even while hidden behind an empathic smile.
But then Master Yen Sid speaks up and says: "Many mistakes can be made by those with the best of intentions. But if you don't know you've made a mistake, you should not blame yourself for it after. You should strive to improve, to do better next time you are given a similar chance. Still, those who are purest of conscience are those who admit to their mistakes."
The ancient man turns to the two men and states: "Don't say that you should've altered your map, say that you will alter your map." The two canines give the man a grateful nod full of the promise that they will comply with his advice.
I notice that Dumbledore's smile is now trying to hide a grimace and hide my own grin of delight at his discomfort and my awe at Yen Sid's wisdom as I read.
"For a … to come.
I desperately want to test Dumbledore and see if he will prove himself true to Master Yen Sid's words about pure conscience. But because we're only a few paragraphs away from the end, I refrain from giving any sign that I want to pause and just read on.
"Dumbledore told … his side.
I slam the book closed and slam it onto the table as, all throughout the reading, I suppressed my disgust over the man's words, over his revolting adoration and devotion to the monster that is the Dark Lord.
Then Master Yen Sid stands up and states: "May I, perhaps, suggest a change of plan when it comes to our prisoner?" Everyone turns to him and he states:
"Recently a very wise and old friend of mine returned from his self-imposed exile to the Realm of Darkness. In Twilight Town he once build a huge computer that is meant for analyzing data, including the data of people. He also invented a pod in which one can sleep while they are being analyzed.
I suggest we use this pod to analyze all there is to know about Barty Crouch Junior and all he knows about Lord Voldemort and Lord Voldemort's plans. Once we have all this data, my friend and his apprentices will write it down for the Ministry to analyze for themselves.
At this point Mr. Crouch Junior's punishment and his exile to the world of Darkness that I mentioned before will begin and Axel's assassination of him once he has lost his heart to the Darkness will follow in due time."
I know that Muggles are advanced in their technology, that they have been able to develop all kinds of mechanical wonders since the end of the last century. And yet I still feel awed at the man's words as this technology sounds so advanced, that Muggles nowadays can only dream of it, perhaps even for years to come.
Yet then Roxas rubs the back of his head and mumbles to the master that he broke said computer in his rage before he merged with Sora. The last words confuse and intrigue me, but then the King laughs and says: "Don't worry, Roxas. You only destroyed the computer in the Data version of Twilight Town. The one in the real world is still in perfectly fine condition, I assure you."
Roxas sighs in relief, while Sora crosses his arms and asks: "So this is the same pod in which I slept while Naminé was fixing my – oh right!"
The boy exclaims as he jumps up. For a moment I worry about his time with his soul mate, but it seems the hour has already passed. He walks over to the girl who has mostly just been writing things down on a notepad and the girl stands up.
Yet even she is shocked when Sora hugs her and he says only two words: "Thank you." Yet these words seem very vitally important to them both as the girl also smiles and hugs him back.
Still I can't help but wonder: "What about him did he need her help to fix? What happened to him?" And while I know that our focus should be on the books, including the one on the table in front of me, I am also very interested in learning more about this lot, these people from another world.
Just be patient, Snape,
Now a quick warning to all you Snape-lovers: SNAPE IS NOT GOOD IN THIS STORY! He's not vile like he is in A Soul's Future, he's just Neutral, nothing more. He does support the Light, but he doesn't really care for anyone on said side. He just wants to make up for the mistakes of his youth, wallow in his disgust over his own past and brew his potions. At most he respects those who do good for the right reasons – aka not Dumbledore.
Now onto something else as I have an important question for you all: DO YOU WANT ME TO GET RID OF BOOK-DUMBLEDORE DURING THE TRIAL IN ORDER OF THE PHOENIX? Please note that most of the book will still be similar – aka Umbridge will still be DADA teacher, YUCK! Oh, and Harry will also still learn about Riddle and the Horcruxes in more or less the same way in Half-Blood. Though Deathly Hallows will be very different.
I've put a poll up for you all to vote on. Don't worry, the crew will read the rest of the books in chronological order, so you will have all throughout Stone, Chamber, Prisoner and Goblet to decide, which will probably take months if not years.
You'll have time,
Venquine1990
PS. What do you think of my new paragraph style? This more to your liking?
Wordcount: 12598 words