Hearing Harley's words, Professor Dumbledore recalled the conversation he'd had with her on the night before Halloween.
He sighed and drew his wand. "Although I want to believe you, I still need more evidence."
"I need to call Severus here and have him give you some Veritaserum."
At the mention of Professor Snape, a trace of disdain flashed in Sirius's eyes. In the end, though, he nodded dejectedly.
"Of course. I don't mind even Legilimency or the Imperius Curse."
"I will not use an Unforgivable Curse on one of my students." Professor Dumbledore shook his head, his expression unusually firm.
A silver Phoenix flew from the tip of his wand, then headed toward the castle.
Professor Dumbledore turned his wand on Peter Pettigrew. "While we wait for Severus, let's hear what the other person involved has to say."
"Rennervate."
A flash of light passed, and Peter Pettigrew slowly woke.
He blinked, shaking his head to clear the fog from his mind as he gradually recalled what had happened before he lost consciousness.
Then he realized he was lying on a table, surrounded by familiar faces—people he knew better than anyone, and never wanted to see again.
"P-Professor Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall," Peter stammered out a greeting. "Long time no see, long time no see..."
"R-Remus, S-Sirius, my friends... my dearest old friends..."
Headmaster Dumbledore and Professor Lupin responded cheerfully, smiles on their faces.
Professor McGonagall merely gave a cool snort and said, "How revolting!"
Clearly, after learning that Peter Pettigrew had disguised himself as a rat for twelve whole years, Professor McGonagall had already formed her own opinion.
As for Sirius, he was already roaring.
"Damn traitor! Scum, useless bastard, you filthy rat! You got James and Lily killed!"
"How... how dare you still be alive in this world, calling us