Fruits of the forbidden tree

[angeldust]

Hi all, this fic has never been posted anywhere else n is expected to be extreamly long. It is co written with Clayre (Quill of Minerva.) The first chapter is by me the second by her and so on! Hope u all enjoy. The first bit seems rather smutty but it does get better!

Forbidden Fruits

Chapter 1

Minerva McGonagall had been but 14 when Albus’s craving started. She had been a gangly teen. Her long, long hair continually falling into her face as her huge glasses slipped down her little nose. She had a bony but pretty face, her cheek bones always high her jaw hardened with confidence. Her body was skeletal, pale and straight.

It had been 2 years later when Albus had found the full potential of her body, when he had awoken to find her in his and his wife’s bed. He’d been ill that day, his brain working 10 times slower then his body. Yet as always he managed to drag himself out of his warm loving bed and to the tight restraints known as his classroom. Minerva the kind soul she was, had sought him out after dinner and demanded to know what was wrong with him.

He still couldn’t remember much of what happened after that. He remembered being in a lively conversation with her one minute and the next he had been undressing her rapidly and she defiantly hadn’t been complaining.

He also remembered the problems that occurred the next morning. He remembered opening his eyes then slamming them shut as the morning sun hit him. He had felt the warm body next to him move closer just before a new wave of nausea hit him. He had only just managed to stop himself from vomiting before he heard the person next to him moan and move even closer.

He had certainly panicked after that, he knew that voice was not at all like his wife’s and he was certain that the lithe body next to him wasn’t hers. He had been forced to marry Lydia many years ago by his mother and father. No love had ever existed on his part. He had shut his eyes tighter and prayed that he was mistaken and that when he opened his eyes he would see Lydia’s lumpy body next to him.

Summoning up all his courage he had rolled over and opened his eyes only to realise that the woman next to him was in fact no more then a girl. He remembered not being sure if he should scream or cry. He remembered how he couldn’t help but stare at her, her long arms encircling his waist her legs tangled with his. Her long delicate neck resting on his chest her shoulders slummed with exhaustion. Her breast’s small and unadulterated.

Albus Dumbledore smiled at the memory. The problems that followed the next day were unbelievable. He smiled down fondly at the woman in his arms. She had certainly changed a lot, she wasn’t a gangly teen any more she had grown, and she was a fine strong woman now.

He couldn’t help but feel slightly guilty as he looked down at her; he had caused her so much pain in the last week. His wife had passed away many years ago and almost straight away Voldemort had guessed there was a lot more to the ageing headmaster and his deputy then met the eye. It had only been a few months ago when Voldemort had took Aberforth’s daughter hostage to get information about Dumbledore and his deputy. He had got it. Albus couldn’t really blame Aberforth his child had been in danger he needed to save her.

Luckily Voldemort had stayed true to his word and Angel was returned safely. After this incident Albus had decided it was time to become public, Minerva had not been so sure. She was sure society wasn’t ready to except such a relationship. Yet Albus had managed to change her mind. He had explained there relationship to the whole of the ministry of magic at the huge party that was being held in honour of Fudge’s birthday. By the next day the press had been crawling all over it, he had expected some grief of course but never had he expected anything as big as this.

The press had taken a huge liking to Minerva they accused her of so many things. They called her every name under the sun, a seducer, user and very *friendly* person seemed to be there all time favourites. Yes there had been one or two magazines that had accused Albus of being a paedophile or blackmailer. But nothing as big as the daily Prophet or witch weekly who seemed to be printing lies about Minerva 24 7.

He picked up one of her delicate hands and studied it closely. It was bruised and cut from the howlers and letters that she had been sent all week most of which she didn’t open but of course after a while they exploded and when she tried to dispose of them… Albus had never seen a woman’s face so badly cut and swollen. Poppy had managed to heal most of the curses and the scars that Minerva had received from the angry hoards of women who believed everything the daily prophet printed. But some would just have to heal on their own. He dropped her small hand as soon as he felt her stir.

“Good morning my love ready to face the world again?” He whispered softly into her ear. She responded by groaning loudly.

“If we must.”

[Nerweniel]

Wonderful! Simply *wonderful*... gods I like your writing, you know that? Albus and Minerva are, as always, extemely cute, but why is the world so cruel to them... *sigh*? Well anyways, great beginning!

[ginger newts]

Wow, poor Minerva. You've got me hooked, update soonly! And please, let it all end up alright.

[Jestana]

*growls and thwaps press with herring*

'nuff said?

[angeldust]

Chapter 2- the daily prophet



By Clayre (Aka Quill of Minerva)

Albus watched as the love of his life brushed her long ebony coloured hair and swept into the tight bun she always wore when teaching. Her cuts on her face were more visible when her hair wasn't down and she quickly covered them with some concealer. She had tried not to let Albus see how upset the constant attacks against her reputation were making her. They both hadn't expected such a backlash, it seemed before this had all come out, they had been a couple that everyone wanted to see together.

Albus walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist; he nuzzled into her neck and looked at her reflection in the large oval shaped mirror.

"You're beautiful!" he told her.

"Thank you!" replied Minerva as she lent her head against his and closed her eyes. "We will get through this won't we?"

"We are strong my love," answered Albus "the people who matter have not turned against us and are happy for us."

"They are to our faces Albus," replied Minerva sadly "we have no idea what they say once our backs are turned."

"My love," said Albus as he moved around in front of her "our friends are our friends, we chose them wisely and they are all for us. Reporters will soon get bored with our love life and move on to something else."

"I look forward to that day," commented Minerva "let's go and get some breakfast."

Albus and Minerva made their way down to the breakfast room at Grimmauld place, they walked in and were immediately met by silence, which made Minerva want to run from the room but Albus held her hand tightly and pulled her lightly into the room.

"Good morning everyone!" he spoke brightly as he took his seat. "Did you all sleep well?"

"Yes thank you!" chorused everyone around the table as they looked down at their breakfast plates and tried to avoid any eye contact with either Albus or Minerva.

Just as the tension in the room reached critical, the door banged opened and in walked Alastor Moody whistling a merry tune. He collapsed into a nearby chair and pulled out his copy of the Daily Prophet which was quickly snatched from his hands by Molly Weasley who stuffed it under the table and tried to look as though nothing had happened.

"What in the name of Merlin are you doing woman?" demanded Alastor.

"It's rude to read at the table!" Molly answered as she shook a finger at him.

"Why haven't you mentioned it before then?" asked Alastor

"Well I have now!" scolded Molly

"I've been up all night," moaned Alastor "I had planned to read my newspaper while having a nice hearty breakfast, now hand me my paper now!"

Molly shifted uncomfortably and then relented; she handed over his copy of the Daily Prophet and returned to spreading jam on her now cold toast. Alastor ignored the front cover and opened the paper straight away to the Quidditch Pages while the room returned to its uncomfortable silence.

"Right I have all that I can take of this!" announced Albus "If you object to my relationship with Minerva than be a friend and speak your mind."

Minerva felt his hand clasp hers from under the table as they waited for answers. Remus Lupin lent forward and placed his hand on Minerva's.

"We do not have a problem," he told them honestly "we couldn't be happier for you both though we wish that the news had been more welcome. We can't see why anybody has a problem with it."

"Then why did it go all quiet in here when we walked in?" questioned Minerva with a raised eyebrow.

"The Daily Prophet!" answered Lupin as he glanced over at Moody who still had his nose stuck in the paper. "We were trying to think of the best way to tell you about the story they printed and before we could, you both came in. Sorry for making you both feel uncomfortable."

"What is the story?" questioned Albus.

"Moody!" called Lupin "Hand me the paper please!"

"What?" growled Alastor, as he glared up at Remus from over the top of the paper.

"I need to show Minerva and Albus something!" replied Lupin who was holding out his hand.

Alastor handed over the newspaper but mumbled under his breath as he did, something that sounded like "what can a man do to read a newspaper around here."

Lupin closed the paper and handed it to Albus whose eyes widen as he read the headline.

Natural Death might not be as natural as once believed!
By Rita Skeeta
Lydia Regina Dumbledore died of what was believed to natural causes some forty years ago but it is to this journalists view that natural death it was not. Soon after his beloved wives death, Albus Dumbledore returned to bed of his mistress: Minerva Aurora McGonagall. It is of my valued opinion that the case of the late Mrs Dumbledore should be re opened and witnesses called. We, the wizarding community have a right to know if the wizard in charge of Hogwarts is a murderer. (Turn to page four for main story!)

Albus placed the newspaper down and sighed loudly, as Minerva turned to page four and read the full story with silent tears running down her face and landing on the paper.

"I can't take much more of this!" she whispered "Why can't she just leave us alone?"

>>>>to be continued<<<<

Thank you to every-one who has reviewed this so far! : P

[Jestana]

Ditto! Why can't Skeeter find someone else's reputation to trash? *growls*

Good job! What's next?

[AltraPalantir]

ooooohhh.... this is getting interesting. Write me more!

[griseldalafey]

Oh How narrow-minded can people get? Good story, I can't wait to see what happens next.

[angeldust]

Thank you to everyone who reviewed really made our day! (Jumps up and down excitedly!) I (Angeldust) have a live journal So to anyone who's intrested i woud really like it if someone had a look at it, my name on there is angeldust___ (3 under scores)





Chapter 3- outside

By Angeldust-aka-Evilwoman

“Minerva McGonagall, Albus Dumbledore the court will now decide if you are guilty of the murder of Lydia Regina Dumbledore. Those in favour of clearing the witnesses of all charges?” Only two hands went up that of Amelia Bones and Derek McGonagall.
“And those in favour of conviction?” Almost all the hands were in the air. Including Cornelius Fudge, Dolores Umbridge and to Minerva’s shock Percy Weasley.
“Very well… Minerva McGonagall, Albus Dumbledore we the Wizengamot sentence you both to a life time in Azkaban.” Minerva watched in horror as Fudge gestured to the Dementors to take them back to Azkaban.

“NOOOOOO!” The sound of Minerva’s frantic voice drifted through Grimmuald Place as she sat bolt up right in bed. Her nightgown drenched with sweat her shoulders quivering with silent sobs. Albus watched her for only a few seconds before sitting up.
“Ssshhh,” he whispered into her ear tenderly winding his strong arms round her shaking body. “It’s just a dream my love, just a dream.” Minerva twisted her body round effortlessly and buried her head into his chest. Albus ran his hands up and down her back gently, trying to comfort her. He kissed her temple softly and held her against him. She had been twisting and turning every night since the day Albus had announced there relationship. Eventually he felt her gradually relax in his strong hold, before falling asleep in his comforting embrace.

Minerva walked into the kitchen of Grimmuald Place alone the next morning.
“Morning Min.” Alastor greeted her cheerfully not looking up from his news paper. Minerva caught the sight of her face on the front page and decided to distract her self with her breakfast.
“Good Morning Minerva! Where’s Albus?” Arthur asked.
“He went for another meeting with Fudge.” Minerva answered coldly; she had never seen eye to eye with Fudge but lately he had been trying to get her removed from Hogwarts, luckily Albus had so far managed to stop him.
“Hello Professor!” Hermione piped up she had arrived earlier on that morning.
“Good mourning Miss Granger.”
“Professor I want to say how brilliant it is that you’re doing this! Even after what all the press has said about you, you don’t let it get to you and you still walk around with your head high. I know that when Skeeta was having ago at me I just wanted to bury my head and run away! I never believed a thing she said and I’m really happy for you and Professor Dumbledore.” Hermione muttered this all very fast and blushed slightly when she had finished.

The sound of a screeching owl met Minerva’s ears before she could answer her student. Expecting it to be a Howler or cursed letter Minerva was quite taken back when a letter from the ministry of magic landed on her desk. She opened it curiously and skimmed through it.

Miss Minerva McGonagall
12 Grimmuald Place
London
England

Dear Miss McGonagall,
We regret to inform you that as of now, you have been stripped of your duties as Deputy Headmistress, Head of Gryffindor house and Transfiguration professor of Hogwarts School of witchcraft and wizardry. A replacement will be found for you by the start of term. We the Wizengamot have decided that due to your relationship with the current headmaster Albus Dumbledore, having such a high position in the school could give you unfair powers that others would not posses. It had been said that for 5 years running Gryffindor has continually won the house cup. Including two years were Professor Dumbledore had dished out points right at the end of term when the polls should have been closed. We believe that this is unfair to other houses and other teachers. You are to be removed permanently and may collect your things on July 29th.
Cornelius Fudge
Minister of magic
Order of Merlin 1st class

[Jestana]

*growl* Why that little--! *flexes claws*

Good chappie!

[griseldalafey]

Good chapter but, >:(KILL FUDGE!!!!!!!!

Although... on second thought, I also feel a little sorry for him.

*evil grin* Albus will have has his head, once he has found out.

But again, great chapter!

[angeldust]

Chapter 4-
By Clayre (Minerva’s Quill)

Minerva stared at the letter with disbelief; they had taken her job away from her because she had fallen in love. She re read it to make sure that her mind wasn't playing cruel tricks on her but it wasn't, there it was in black and white; sacked! She crumpled the letter into a ball in her hand and threw it on the table; she stared at it as it unfolded itself.
"What did it say?" asked Alastor Moody who had been watching her with interest.
"I've been forced out!" she replied as she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room before anyone had chance to see the tears that were falling from her deep green eyes.
Alastor at first didn't understand what she was talking about till he read the letter; he couldn't believe the nerve of the ministry. They had just dismissed the one of the best Transfiguration specialists in the wizarding world, not to mention the most power of witches in modern times. A knock on the front door of Grimmauld place stirred him from his musings and when he answered it, he came face to face with a disgruntled Albus Dumbledore.
"Has it arrived yet?" asked Albus as he stepped into the hallway.
"A few minutes ago," answered Alastor who knew that Albus was talking about the letter "couldn't you have done something."
"Don't you think I tried," snapped Albus "I've been there all morning trying to convince them that they are taking the wrong cause of action. Fudge will not see sense and to be honest, I don't know what his problem is."
"Fudge is an idiot!" growled Alastor "Only Merlin knows how he got that job!"
"How did Minerva take it?" asked Albus
"Hard to tell," replied Alastor "she went up to her rooms after it had arrived."
Albus nodded sadly as he began to climb the staircase, he knew how important her teaching was to her. She had always dreamed of teaching transfiguration from early on in her life, she had excelled at it in school and had been the top of her class for all the seven years she had been at Hogwarts. She had learnt to be an animagius in no time at all and had even published one or two journals before she turned twenty. As soon as the job at Hogwarts had been available, there had been no doubt in anyone’s mind that the position should be taken by her. The students had respected her and some had adored her over the years, she was stern but kind hearted and her love for quidditch had endeared to her students even more. She lived and breathed teaching and now it had been taken away from her.
Albus pushed open the door to the bedroom they now shared and found her laid on her stomach on the bed. He watched for a few moments and realised that she was sobbing lightly; he made his way over to the bed and sat down beside her. He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder which caused her to look up at him; her eyes were swollen and red from her crying.
"Oh Minerva, darling." he said softly as he watched her gracefully get up into a sitting position.
"They have forced me out Albus," she sniffed "I didn't even get a chance to defend myself. Was that why you were at the ministry? Why didn't you warn me that my job was on the line?"
"I didn't know until this morning and I went to the ministry straight away," he told her "I did my best darling but no one would listen."
"What am I going to do?" she asked "My job was so important to me Albus and now I have nothing."
"That isn't true Minerva," said Albus as he reached for her hand and gave it a loving squeeze "you have the order and you have me!"
Minerva pulled her hand from his and got off the bed; she walked over to the window and gazed out into the deserted street below.
"Why did we have to come out in the open Albus?" she asked just loud enough for him to hear.
"Are you ashamed of our love?" questioned Albus who had been slightly hurt by what she had just said.
"No," she replied "but I didn't know that it would cost me my job and cost us our reputations. I love you Albus but look at what has happened, I'm worried that all this is going to drive us apart."
"That is what they want darling." said Albus as he stood up and walked over to her. "I will resign."
"Albus, you can't!" replied Minerva quickly "Hogwarts needs you!"
"Hogwarts isn't Hogwarts without you though." he answered.
"That is something we both have to get used to." said Minerva as she put on a brave face.
He slipped his arms around her waist and pulled her back so she was resting against him. They stayed like this for some time and neither of them spoke; they both knew that all this was putting a strain on their relationship. Part of Minerva blamed Albus for her losing her job and the other part of her, cursed her for thinking that. Albus was blaming himself for her losing her job and he felt terrible about the abusive letters she was receiving.
"Albus," whispered Minerva "are we going to get through this."
"We have each other," he answered "and together we are strong."
"That might not be enough!" she said sadly.

a/n: sorry it is such a short chapter, my muse deserted me half way through and I lost the will to write.

[griseldalafey]

What is wrong with your muse? Leaving you in the middle of such a wonderful story.

Great chapter, I feel so sorry for both of them. (stupid Stupid STUPID Fudge) I hope they'll pull through this all.

[ginger newts]

Oh dear, this just keeps getting sadder and sadder. I do hope things will eventually work out, they can't lose each other over this!

[angeldust]

Chapter5-
By Angel dust aka Evilwoman

Minerva flinched slightly as Albus crawled into the bed next to her. She hadn’t said much to him all day; she couldn’t stop thinking that it was partly his fault for her losing her job. But it was more then a job to her… it had turned into a way of life something she did. Something, that made her feel happy and comfortable. Albus pulled his warm body over to hers and wrapped his arms round her waist gently. Minerva didn’t respond. He kissed her neck and waited for her to react. He was slightly surprised when she struggled out of his arms and pressed up against the wall still not saying a word.
“Minerva?” He asked, hurt.
“You’re to hot Albus… your skins on fire.” She lied, curling up against the cold wall. In all their years together Minerva had never tried to make an excuse not to fall asleep in his arms.
“Goodnight Albus.” She mumbled before curling up into a tight ball and closing her eyes. Albus was left alone, the gentle creak of the house moving as his only companion. After he was sure Minerva was asleep he clambered out of the warm bed pulling on his dressing gown before venturing down stairs. He walked down the stairs with ease before going into the kitchen and sank down into a chair everything that had happened over the past week came flooding back and the tears began. His thoughts were totally on his lover, his Minerva. The way she looked at him when he found her crying, the way her eyes held him and accused him. He couldn’t blame her of course, he had been so shocked when the ministry had told him they were firing Minerva… he hadn’t been thinking straight he had panicked and said anything that came to mind. And now she had nothing… oh yes the McGonagall fortune could supply her with everything she needed and probably for generations after her as well but that wasn’t the point. Minerva had been born to teach and now it had suddenly been stolen from her. Like a dieing man and his last breath.
“Something wrong Albus?” Albus looked up and saw Molly Weasley smiling at him kindly, a dusting rag thrown over her left shoulder.
“No…yes... yes there is Molly.” He answered softly not making eye contact with the good natured soul in front of him. He heard Molly draw her self a chair then sit down in front of him.
“You will get through this Albus, you and Minerva are strong. I’m sure you will find away to get her job back and if you don’t well… there’s always the order lord knows I and Remus need a little company now again. Everyone else is at work all day.” Molly exclaimed taking Albus’s worn hands in her own.
“She won’t even look at me Molly… I tried to hold her earlier she just struggled about until I let go of her. She wouldn’t let me hold her, she won’t let me speck to her.” Albus muttered silent tears falling down his tired cheeks.
“It’s been hard on both of you. And she keeps receiving all this howlers always putting her down, adding insult to injury.”
“Molly, she wishes we didn’t come out about us… I feel I feel like she’s ashamed of me, of us.”
“Oh Albus don’t be stupid! She’s madly in love with you. It’s just all those people out there who believe everyone should get with someone there own age. But the world doesn’t work like that Albus! I mean look at me and Arthur there’s 20 years between us, yet we are happy with children and friends who we can tell anything. You can’t let the press get you down. There just a bunch of sadistic people with nothing better to do. Take that Rita Skeeta woman not a decent bone in her body.” Molly muttered motherly, this was quite ironic considering Albus was old enough to be her great grandfather.
“Minerva loves you… I see it in the way she looks at you, she adores you. Now you get up those stairs and comfort her.”
“But Molly what if she…” Albus started but Molly interrupted him by standing up and pointing to the door.
“I don’t want to hear it Albus now go and comfort her!” Molly whispered rather aggressively, Albus could now finally see why the twins where so afraid of their mother.
“Thank you Molly.” He whispered, kissing her on the cheek before climbing up the stairs and entering his room. He closed the door and let his eyes adjust to the darkness; he climbed into the slightly cold bed and reached around for Minerva. He couldn’t feel her, the slap of panic hit him violently he turned on the side lamp next to the bed and looked around. The lump in the middle of the bed caught his attention, he smiled to himself. A typical Minerva thing, when ever she had been worried or stressed in the day as soon as her eyes dropped her sleeping body would curl up into a tight ball and bury her self under the covers. He listened to her unsteady breathing for a few seconds noticing the small whimpers and sobs that filled the room between her heavy breaths. He bent down the bed slightly and pulled her body up to his, she wiggled down him until she reached his stomach where she buried her head and continued to sleep as if she hadn’t been moved. He stoked her hair aimlessly another hard day was looming closer and closer but for now there was no press no people staring at them as if they were something unnatural and unholy. It was just him and his Minerva.

[Jestana]

Ouch, that had to hurt, that she would pull away from him. Go Molly for telling to get his butt upstairs and comfort Min. *giggle* Good job.

[griseldalafey]

ahh... the last part was sweet. I hope this doesn't come between them. Great job!

[LinZE]

this rocks - can't wait for more!
thanks
Linds
xxx

[angeldust]

Chapter 6-
By Clayre

Albus awoke the next morning and was delighted to see that Minerva was still curled up against him; he let his hand run and down her bare arm as he simply watched her sleeping. She looked even more enchanting as she slept, no worry could be seen in her dark green eyes and she looked so peaceful. Albus had always loved the morning but recently he had begun to dislike and even dread it. Minerva was his main worry, she hadn't been out of Grimmauld place since the news of them being together had been plastered all over the Daily Prophet. Her skin looked lacking in fresh air and colour, she needed to get out. She began to stir in his arms and he soon felt two eyes upon him.
"Good morning my love!" he said with a smile
"Good morning Albus," she replied as she snuggled into him and then froze, as memories of last night came back to haunt her "I am sorry about how I acted towards you last night."
"You don't have to explain," He answered her "I know yesterday was horrible for you and I don't blame you for blaming me because I am at fault."
"I did blame you a bit yesterday," replied Minerva looking up at him "but today it's different. Neither you nor I are to blame, it's their petty childish attitudes. We have done nothing wrong apart from falling in love and that is no crime."
"We are stronger when we are together." declared Albus before leaning down and brushing his lips against hers.
Their kiss was interrupted by an urgent knocking at their door and Molly, followed by Arthur swept into the room looking grave. Both Minerva and Albus sat up in bed with surprise as Molly went to clasp Minerva's hands.
"Oh Minerva!" said Molly with tears in her eyes
"Molly," questioned Minerva softly as fear began to grip at her "what has happened?"
"It isn't good news," revealed Arthur in disbelief "I can't believe people would fall for the rubbish Fudge sprouts."
"Would someone mind telling me what this is all about?" asked Albus who had reached across and held Minerva's spare hand.
Arthur handed Albus the most recent copy of the Daily Prophet and waited for the reaction, it was bound to receive.
"WHAT!" demanded Albus loudly "How dare they do such a thing!"
"People who know you both," began Arthur "won't believe this rubbish. For Merlin’s sake it is lies!"
Minerva had gone as pale as a sheet as her eyes flicked over the Daily Prophet, there she was on the front page once again but this time she was a wanted woman. She reached across of the paper, which Albus tried to stop her from seeing but she glared at him and he handed it to her. The picture kind of reminded her of the pictures that were everywhere of Sirius Black when he had escaped from prison, she was wanted in connection with the murder of Albus' first wife. She was being accused of killing her to get Albus and the Ministry was going to put her on trial for a crime that she didn't commit.
"I didn't do it," whispered Minerva "she died of natural causes."
"Of course, you didn't do such a thing." said Molly patting her hand as a sign of comfort
"Why bring this up?" asked Albus in shock.
"Rita Skeeta's article!" suggested Arthur "Everyone knows what she is like, how can they take her seriously."
"What am I going to do?" asked Minerva as silent tears ran down her cheeks. "They do everything within their power to find me guilty so I am out of the way."
"You are innocent Minerva," said Albus pulling her into a tight embrace "we will prove it."
"Sirius was innocent," whimpered Minerva sadly "look what they did to him."
"Even I have to admit," said Arthur "that the evidence collected at the scene did point to him but your case it different Minerva."
"Should I go to the ministry?" questioned Minerva
"They will put you in chains as soon as you step foot in the place!" revealed Arthur.
"Don't I have a chance to prove I'm innocent." asked Minerva with fear present in her voice.
"You will have a trial," explained Arthur "the outcome all depends on the council."
"I shall hand myself in." said Minerva bravely

[angeldust]

Chapter 7-
By Angeldust aka Evilwoman

“Minerva…” Albus started watching her as she paced across the room. “You don’t have to go, you don’t have to explain you’re self to them.”
“I do! I have to… I don’t want to go to Azkaban.” She sighed, not once looking up at him.
“I’ll come with you. They have to see sense!” Albus stated getting up from the bed and finishing getting dressed.
“No Albus, I’m going alone. If you come with me it will just be a chance to kick us both while we’re down. If they see us together they will think we can’t handle this on our own! I have to go alone!” She muttered sweeping her hair back into its stern bun.
“Are you sure about this?” He asked walking closer to her and taking her sore hands in his own.
“I’m sure, wish me luck?” She whispered forcing herself to smile. He bent down and kissed her softly before mumbling good luck.

5 minutes later

Minerva squinted in the sun light; it felt like it had been years since she had last been out in the heat. She followed Arthur to the entrance of the Ministry trying to ignore the filthy looks she was receiving from witches and wizards who were going to or leaving work.
“Fudge will be up on the 7th floor,” Arthur assured her as they got into the elevator. “It will be fine Minerva. They have no proof at all. Do you have an alibi?” he asked caringly. Minerva wasn’t surprised that no one had entered the elevator it was obvious that no one in the ministry wanted to be seen in the same room as her.
“Not a very good one,” She answered she was worried. What if they sent her to Azkaban she couldn’t stand dementors she would surely go crazy. “I was with Albus that night… he and Alastor are my only witness’s. My lover and mad eye moody really going to go down well isn’t it.” Minerva sighed she could feel the colour drain from her cheeks; she didn’t want to go through with this she just wanted to go home and hide under her bed.
“Better then nothing,” Arthur smiled. “Good luck.” He muttered as he clambered out the lift on the 4th floor. It was a long ride up; Minerva stepped out of the humid lift when she reached the seventh floor only to have a huge woman crash into her deliberately and mutter insults at her before entering the lift herself. Minerva did her best to ignore this and walked along the corridor. Her arm was throbbing from where the woman had crashed into her; she glanced around the corridor and noticed Amelia Bones standing in a corner struggling with thousands of papers. Amelia looked up at her and smiled encouragingly before hobbling into a room Minerva guessed was Fudge’s office. She started to walk over when two sickly high pitch voices interrupted her. Minerva spun around to see Rita Seeker and a toad like woman she recognised as Dolorous Umbridge.
“Minerva! So glad to see you recovered from those stunners so soon.” Umbridge giggled, she was wearing a bright yellow and orange suit that made her look like someone had thrown up on her twice.
“No thanks to you Dolorous.” Minerva answered bitterly before turning and marching straight for Fudge’s office.
“You know McGonagall it’s rude to turn your back on people when they are talking to you!” Rita called after her, before muttering something that Minerva didn’t hear to Umbridge who broke out in hysterical laughter.

“Good Morning Miss McGonagall, I didn’t expect you to show up till tomorrow.” Fudge greeted her icily. Amelia Bones sat to the left of him and a giant man that Minerva had never seen before on his right.
“Take a seat Minerva.” Amelia frowned, she was sure Minerva was innocent but proving it with out losing her job was another thing all together.
“What is it that you want McGonagall surely anything you want to say could have waited till your hearing.” The Huge man on Fudge’s right asked.
“Why are you doing this Fudge?” Minerva blurted out she couldn’t hold in these questions anymore.
“What?” Fudge answered quite taken back.
“3 weeks ago I and Albus were respected citizens and suddenly you and Rita Seeker have turned everyone against us. What have we ever done to you? What do you find so wrong about or relationship?” Minerva demanded. Fudge just sat back in his seat and stared at her or a few minutes.
“Because Miss McGonagall. I find your relationship with Dumbledore disgusting. I mean he taught you at Hogwarts he taught your mother and father at Hogwarts. He left school before your grandfather even started! He’s more then 3 times you age, it’s revolting. Your father is a well respected man what has he to say about this?” Fudge asked tartly.
“He knows and he is proud. He is glad that I have found someone who loves me. And he understands that age shouldn’t be barrier.” Minerva answered, it was true her father was proud of course he was worried even angry at first but he had understood in the end.
“And what about Lydia Dumbledore’s death?” The huge man butted in again.
“She died of natural courses.” Minerva answered back.
“You were having an affair with Dumbledore at the time were you not?”
“… Yes. I’m not proud of it. We can’t help who we fall in love with.”
“How old were you?” Fudge asked he knew the answer he obviously just liked to hear it. He liked to tease and taunt her. He was wired to Rita Seeker at this very moment.
“…18.” She began but Fudge promptly cut her of. She knew that everything she said in this interview would be posted in the daily prophet the next morning.
“I sadly can’t go through this with you at the minute I’m a very busy man. Your hearing will be on Saturday 10:30am court room 10. Good day Miss McGonagall.” Fudge muttered flicking through the papers on his desk.
“No I’m not finished!” Minerva demanded.
“I’m afraid Miss McGonagall that I am. Now please leave my office before I have you escorted out.” Minerva sensing she couldn’t win promptly left the office.

[Jestana]

*growl* Idiots!

[angeldust]

Chapter 8-
By Clayre

Albus paced up and down the kitchen waiting for Minerva to return from the ministry. Molly and Arthur watched with concern. They had never seen Albus look so worried, they were used to seeing him composed and in control but they knew Minerva was his everything.
“Albus,” said Molly softly “Come and sit down and I’ll make you a drink.”
“Thank you Molly dear but I can’t relax till Min comes back.”
“Sit down Albus,” ordered Molly “wearing the carpet out will not help Minerva.”
Albus looked over at Molly and knew that she was right; he sat down and wrapped his hands around the mug of hot chocolate Molly had made him.
“What do you think will happen Arthur?” Questioned Albus.
“Fudge can’t be stupid enough to bring charges against her Albus,” answered Arthur.
“With Umbridge pulling on his strings he is that stupid.” Molly and Arthur both exchanged concerned glances, they both knew what Umbridge was like and how she could wrap people round her chubby little fingers. Minerva was innocent and anyone who knew her would know this, but the ministry was known for unfair trails so Minerva had no chance.
“Let’s just wait till Minerva comes back.” Molly suggested.
“That’s all we can do,” Arthur agreed. An hour later Minerva strode in and sat down beside Albus, she sighed softly as she squeezed his hand.
“I thought you would have been back sooner.” Albus admitted.
“I needed to go for a walk love.” She replied softly. “I have a hearing on Saturday.” Albus knew this had been coming but it still knocked him back. He knew he had to be strong but it felt like his whole word was crumbling around him.
“I’ll be right with you darling.” He assured her.
“Albus,” she said letting go of his “I am in this alone.”

[angeldust]

Chapter 9-
By Angeldust-aka-Evilwoman

Albus watched as Minerva readied herself for bed, he couldn’t stop his stomach from churning. This could be the very last night that he ever held her.
“Are your parents coming tomorrow?” Albus asked softly watching her as she pulled her nightgown over her slender body.
“Yes and by the sounds of it they are bringing the whole family. I don’t see the point to tell the truth it’s only delaying the inevitable.” She sighed, flopping down onto the bed next to him.
“Don’t say that!” Albus said loudly pulling her closer to him.
“Albus I only have two witnesses… and my alibi is awful! I’m just being realistic Albus… there not going to let me of with out a huge fight.” She turned round to face him and kissed him softly. “You will come and visit me… won’t you?” She whispered burying her head into his chest.
“If the worst happens… then of course I’ll be forced to break in and start a new life in your cell. But that isn’t going to happen Minerva… you’ll be fine after the hearing tomorrow you’ll come back out and everything will be as it always has been.” Minerva whished she could believe him. She whished that she could go to bed and wake up in the morning with everything as it should be. But of course this wasn’t about to happen.
“Now go to sleep my love.” Albus soothed stroking her hair softly. She looked up at him and wrapped her arms around his waist tightly.
“I don’t want to go asleep!” She muttered sounding a bit like a small child. She lent up slowly and pressed her lips against him again. “This could be our last night together… let’s make it one to remember.”


It was 8 o’clock the sun was the high and the living room of Grimmuald place was covered with the burning sun. Molly stood in the corner of the room fusing with her children, Harry and Hermione trying to make them look decent. Arthur was standing next to Remus who was biting his nails unceremoniously. Albus was sitting on the sofa watching Minerva as she paced up and down the room desperately. Tonks stood in the door way with Alastor who was reading a long piece of parchment.
“Everyone else is going to meet us at the ministry how they are all going to fit into the court room is a totally different matter.” Tonks said loudly trying her best to smile.
“Everyone else?” Minerva asked who had finally stopped pacing for the first time that morning.
“Yes, some ex students are coming some of your friends from Hogwarts, Hagrid and all the other teachers up at the school even Severus is turning up and that’s not even mentioning the rest of the McGonagall clan. That old court room will have never seen so many people.” Minerva smiled softly for what seemed to be the first time in weeks and sank down next to Albus who clutched her hand tightly.
“Little Miss popular.” Alastor smirked grinning softly.

1 hour later Minerva found herself in front of a large crowd of at least 30 people all of who were trying to hug her and tell her that it was going to be fine. Harry, Ron and Hermione stood away from the crowd and glanced around Harry’s eyes instantly fell on two people that were standing quite far away from the crowd Ron also noticed that McGonagall was making her way fiercely over to them. The man had shoulder length black hair with bright eyes and thin lips. He was tall and wiry; it was quite obvious he was Minerva’s father. The woman standing next to him was also quite tall and also strangely skinny and pale her lips were thin her eyes rather cat like. She wore her brown hair long she had a friendly smile on her face. They both embraced Minerva tightly; Harry could tell that they were obviously very close.
Minerva turned from her parents when she felt someone tap on her shoulder. The huge man that she had seen in Fudge’s office stood behind her.
“It’s time.” He snarled loudly shooting looks at her as if she was a piece of filth. He grabbed her shoulders tightly and pushed her towards the door but before she had time to do anything Albus had grabbed her and was holding her tightly against him in a strong hug. He let go of her eventually and kissed her head softly before whispering good luck and letting her go.

[griseldalafey]

Ai... this does not look good... She *has* to come out alright *bites lip*

Please???

[Kamdra]

I don't know why chapter six and seven were posted again but I'm glad because I haven't read this yet. I am only at chapter four but I am definitely interested in this story. Its hard to not feel bad for Minerva and Albus but he did a really good job. I will have to read more tomorrow. Its really late here. Kammie

[angeldust]

(bangs head on table) sigh my head is like a colander as of late! Big thanks to Kamdra who pionted out the mistake ;D




Chapter 10-
By Clayre

Minerva found herself being man handled roughly into the courtroom. She took comfort from all her friends and family being there but she knew that she was going down. She didn’t even try and defend herself when Fudge tried to pick holes in her character; she heard shocked and angry voices from the stalls where her friends were sat as he passed Judgement and sentenced her to ten years at Azkaban. As the words sunk in she glanced at Albus who was visibly shaken. She offered him a half hearted smile but her emerald green eyes shone with fear, she tried to put on a brave face but she was frightened like never before. She had seen what that place had done to Sirius and she knew that she wasn’t as strong as he was. She knew she would die before her ten year sentence was over. She felt herself being pulled from the courtroom and away from her family and friends she didn’t even get a chance to say goodbye. She could hear the raised voice of her beloved Albus demanding a re trial but his words fell on death ears. Before she could take in her surroundings she felt the familiar tug in her stomach as a portkey was activated and took her to her death.

[angeldust]

Chapter 11-
By Angeldust-aka-Evilwoman


Albus marched fiercely down the corridor leading to Minerva’s cell. It was amazingly dark Albus could only just see his way without walking into one of the many walls. It was like a labyrinth in this place. The screams of many mentally tortured woman racketed around the firm stonewalls. Albus stopped dead as two dark shadows passed his path making him shiver slightly one turned its head and stood still as the memories from the war against Grindelwald came flooding back. He quickly turned the corner and quickened his pace. He soon came a huge stone door he knew Minerva was on the other side. Albus took a deep breath and entered slowly. It was even darker in this part of the prison he walked down slowly looking into each cell for his lover. The first cell contained a small woman with large pointy ears who was clutching her knees tightly and rocking back and forth softly whispering something about a plague and a man called David. Albus stopped dead at the next cell a woman he recognized all to well looked back at him.
“My master told me you would be here, that you would come to see your little slut. I thought you would wait for about a week though.” Bellatrix Lang whispered whipping her damp eyes on her dirty robes. “She’s two cells down tell her I said hello.” She muttered before turning her back to him. Albus ignored her and carried on down the hallway. He stopped and looked at his lover intently not once saying anything. She was curled up against the wall on what looked like a hard wooden bench her long cape thrown over her body. Her back was facing him and Albus could tell by the way her shoulders were shaking that she was crying.
“Minerva?” Albus muttered pressing up against the bars of her cell. She looked at him from over her shoulder her eyes were red and wet she smiled softly and jumped up before running over to him and pushing her arms through the bars and grabbing him tightly. She turned her head in an awkward angle and managed to press her lips against his softly.
“Oh Minerva.” He muttered softly looking at the state of her. Her robes were dirty already and her hair was louse and matted.
“It’s not that bad Albus…” She muttered softly her voice slightly hoarse. “The dementors don’t come out much in the day… they seem to like the night more.” She tried to force herself to smile but Albus could tell the only thing she wanted to do was sit and cry. “Did you see the woman in the first cell?” Albus nodded lightly. “She’s an elf! The man who brought me in told me she looks so out of place here.” Minerva muttered sadly.
“Minerva…” Albus whispered softly at her. “Transform, turn into a cat and run come home with me please!” He muttered softly tears still falling down his face. “I miss you so much.” Minerva sighed softly and closed her eyes.
“I can’t… I’ve all ready tried they have anti magic spells all around this place.” She sighed and moved away from his hold before going and sitting down on the hard bench.
“I will get you out of here Min I promise. I love you.” Albus muttered softly.
“I know.” Minerva muttered before lying back down and staring at the ceiling.

[Kassandra]

I started reading this late last night and I can't beleive the mob mentality of folks. I just wanted to hurl something at them. I can't wait to read more and I hope Albus can save her. Kassie

[Karlynne]

I don't know if I started reading this on ffnet or not. The beginning seemed familiar to me but then my mind is pretty shot at the moment. I didn't think it possible that I would want to strangle Fudge more than I wanted to during OOTP but oh how I would love to get my hands on that evil little man. Poor Minerva having to suffer so.

[griseldalafey]

I shouldn't read this fiftheen minutes before I go to bed....

Poor Minerva And she's still so brave. I really want to hurt Fudge right now. Please let there be a happy ending.