The Rat's Gift |Peter Pettigrew| (Completed) #harrypotterawards2019

10

"Harry, James wouldn't have wanted me killed. ...James would have understood, Harry ....he would have shown me mercy. .."

At that point in time, Peter had just spewed out those words in a last, desperate attempt to save his skin. However, James Potter had indeed showed him mercy. He had saved him and offered him a second chance.

Peter believed that no other person could be as ashamed of himself as he was right now. He felt disgusted with himself to the very pores of his skin. Somehow, he felt that it was undeserving that he, a useless, conniving and backstabbing coward would be offered a second chance at life rather than someone who was so magnanimous. He stared at Muerve through his tears "Are you sure that you have the right person?" he asked, weakly.

Muerve nodded wiping away some tears of his own. "We left the final choice to James. If he had not wanted to forgive you, he would never have pulled you out of the well. His action of saving you sealed the bond that offers you this chance."

Peter was finally convinced. He suddenly realized that he had been trembling the whole time. He steadied himself and took out his wand which until that moment he had no knowledge of being there. It was his first wand he had bought at Ollivander's.

"Tell me what to do!" he stated.

"You have to pass through that door," said Muerve.

Peter glanced at the door and jumped in surprise. The previously battered looking door was now replaced by a brand new one. It was freshly polished to such an extent that Peter could see his own reflection in it. He turned towards Muerve who shrugged. Peter clutched his wand tight and stepped forward towards the door."Before you leave, Peter, have you thought of what you are going to sacrifice?"

Peter felt stupid. He hadn't the slightest clue. It must have shown on his face as Muerve laughed. "Don't worry. When it is time, you will. Now go!"

Peter smiled at him and walked towards the exit. He placed one hand on the doorknob.

"Will I see you again," he asked, turning around.

No answer came as there wasn't anyone there. Muerve had vanished. Peter felt his legs go jittery and his body tremble once again. Steadying himself, he turned the doorknob and walked through the doorway.

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He was instantly hit by a gust of cold wind. The doorway had opened in to a village. There was a slight drizzle accompanied by heavy winds that made it very difficult to stand out in the open. However, in spite of that, the village looked very lively. The trees had been decorated with lights and small children in costumes were running here and there. Pumpkins carved in to lanterns were hanging about at the entrances of the houses. He had no idea how he had gotten here. His memory was hazy and all he could remember was a tightened sensation around his neck.

He looked around and all of a sudden, Peter recognized the place. It was Godric's Hollow but what was he doing here?

Once the realization hit him, he could recognize the footpaths that lead to James's house. He made his way slowly towards it. He looked around but no one seemed to mind him at all. They probably thought him a tramp or a beggar.

When he reached the Potter's cottage, he stopped .The curtains had not been drawn. James was making smoke rings with his wand and baby Harry was trying to catch it. The door opened and he could see Lily as she picked Harry up.

Peter smiled. He felt that he should go in and say hello to his best friends.

Suddenly, he found himself standing in the dark and there was nothing surrounding him.