A Resigned Path

by TJ-182

It was never a choice they wanted to make. It was a path they needed to walk. His heart, Her knowledge and His essence causing ripples in a future full of ghosts. Death can't help but be amused as three lives so tightly entwined bring chaos and change to the stagnant world of magic.

11. Chapter 11

Hi.

A bit of a Warning for this chapter, it's not progressive to the plot in the slightest. It's function is to provide a bit of a glimpse into the background happenings beyond Ron, Harry and Hermione's pov. Also a great big insight to House dynamics.

It Champions Percy's Pov a mighty bit and reveals the political games among the Hogwarts students.

I worked too hard on this chapter to just not post it and I'm sure there will be more chapters like these in the future. Don't worry I'll always leave a note to give you the option of reading these kind of chapters or not.

In saying that, do enjoy you're read and I look forward to hearing what you think :)

[CHAPTER WARNINGS: POLITICAL TALKS]

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Chapter: Behind Gryffindor lines #LionPride.

The Gryffindor prefects were summoned to meet with their Head of House in her office after lunch. The tension among them incredibly thick as they waited for Professor McGonagall to arrive with more information regarding the situation. Nobody could make sense of the dramatic drop of House points, not when it was only the first week back. This morning their house was sitting at a comfortable 265, two points ahead of Hufflepuff and one below Slytherin with Ravenclaw leading the board. By lunch they'd been reduced to 45 points and forced to watch it slowly decrease into the negatives. Now they were sitting at a -20 on the score board. They'd need at least four Gryffindor students to earn 5 points minimum to get out of the negatives and return to zero, assuming nobody lost points in between.

It was madness, complete and utter madness.

The seventh-year prefects muttered among themselves, debating what crime must have been done to result in such a large deduction of points. The sixth-year prefect's argued over who might've been the cause if the Weasley twins were truly innocent. The fifth years remained silent, sitting in wait for McGonagall's arrival.

"It has to have been a group, no way one student could lose that much on their own," Sarah Marshall decides with a decisive pound of her fist to her hand.

Lewis Bishop shakes his head while his lips purse with thought.

"Jordan and the Weasley twins have had years to cross this line. If they were going to push the boundaries and risk pissing the entire house off, they would've done it as first years," he reasons.

Marsha Wilkins looks over with a disbelieving scoff and shake of her head.

"You think first years could have done this?"

Lewis shrugs and doesn't answer, he doesn't have to, as Sarah snaps her fingers with dawning glee.

"Of course! You're guess is Potter's somehow involved!" she accuses with a smirk, as if delivering a joke.

Lewis shrugs but again doesn't confirm anything.

The tension among them grows when Arnold Daniels turns a considering eye towards a quiet Percy.

"Weasley, isn't your newest brother friends with Potter?"

Despite the posed question, all the prefects hear the hidden demand in his tone. All eyes turn to Percy who straightens in his seat, the shine of his prefect badge catching their eye for a second or two. It distracts them from the cool glare of his stare and the stiffness in his shoulders.

"I can assure you; Ronald is nothing like Fred and George," Percy starts, the warning in his tone clear for all to hear.

Arnold leans back and raises his hands as if he's placating an animal. He knew from personal experience the wrath of a Weasley. The younger boy was bound to grow overly defensive if any of the younger Weasleys were involved. The Weasleys were temperamental creatures, like nesting dragons when it came to their younger siblings. At least, that's how Charlie Weasley had been. Percy was a bit too pompous to liken to a dragon, but Arnold wasn't going to take any chances.

"And I would appreciate it, if you would all stop assuming he shares any blame with the matter solely because he's related to Fred & George. Mind you, the twins also have certifiable alibi's to support their innocence."

Marsha snorts, rolling her eyes, before giving her response.

"Calm down Peacock, no need to ruffle your feathers over a bit of brain storming."

The dislike between Percy and the seventh years could be felt by everyone in the room. Amanda Shrew, the female fifth year prefect, quickly spoke out. She attempted to ease the tension with a soft smile and gentle words.

"Nobody is accusing anyone of anything," she tries.

Sarah blows a raspberry to show her disagreement and wryly points at the two seventh years.

"Uh, yes they were. I just named Potter as a suspect. Its them who tried to blame the baby Weasleys'."

She ignores the glares she gets from the older prefects and addresses the room.

"Either way, can we all just agree that the teacher involved is most definitely Snape? I mean, who else could hate Gryffindor that much," she continues.

All of them jump with surprise when an unexpected voice joins their discussion.

"You would be fairly correct Miss Marshall," McGonagall confirms.

The prefects all stand to attention when she enters. Their Head of House looks significantly calmer compared to her earlier bluster. They can tell she's still incredibly miffed by the tight purse of her lips and dark tint to her stare. But her cheeks have cooled from its heated red, and her accent had softened.

"Headmaster Dumbledore has assured me that a meeting among the Heads of House will be scheduled tonight to discuss the incident. Until then, I'm afraid I have need of your assistance with your fellow Gryffindors. You must monitor and mediate any in house disturbances that may occur, am I understood?"

"Yes Professor," they echoed.

But McGonagall is not finished, and she continues by turning to address Percy directly. The expression she wears is rather unsettling and Percy tries not to show how anxious it makes him feel.

"I am sorry to say that your youngest brother, Mister Weasley, and his friends appear to be the centre focus of the matter. While they are not entirely to blame, they most certainly escalated the situation."

Percy swallows but keeps his expression carefully controlled as all eyes turn to him. He opts to keep silent rather than attempt saying anything, not when he's still unclear on the details of the event. As if reading his thoughts, McGonagall proceeds to inform them of what had been reported to her by several portrait witnesses.

Throughout her spiel, Percy keeps a tight rein on his emotions and tongue, careful not to let his temper show. By the end of her recount, Percy feels dizzy and overwhelmed, still he stubbornly stays on his feet. McGonagall's expression softens into one that exudes comfort and assurance.

"Make no mistake, Mister Weasley, had this not upset House morale and students so greatly, I would praise your brother and his friends for their resilient show of daring in the face of injustice. However, Hogwarts is a school where every student is to be an example for the following generations to come. We Gryffindors might be bold and daring, but we are NOT so blatantly disrespectful towards a Professor, which Severus Snape remains to be."

She speaks her last sentence with barely controlled scorn, her temper threatening to surface once more.

"Of course, Professor," Percy agrees with a respectful dip of his head.

It earns him a twitch of amusement, but his unspoken message had been received. Gryffindors' reputation for boisterous adventure and unashamed manner held plenty of truth. But all lions had their pride and knew the benefits of humbling oneself for a greater hunting prize.

They were, after all, considered Kingly beasts among animals.

Royalty.

Contrary to belief, they had standards to maintain.

"I will not be issuing any punishments but a conversation on respecting authority figures may suffice."

"Understood Professor," Percy agrees once again.

McGonagall nods but turns her stare to the rest of the prefects just as stern.

"That goes for all of you as well. Daniels & Wilkins shall talk to the seventh and sixth years. The other years shall be dealt with by the four of you. I trust a certain few will be more willing to better their actions when confronted by a Prefect closer in age or familiarity."

They all knew McGonagall had split the years specifically so Percy could deal with his brothers himself. It was incredibly obvious but entirely for the best as no one wanted to deal with the Weasley twins on a good day, let alone for something like this.

"Tomorrow Morning, I will call for a House meeting and address the situation myself. Until then you are dismissed."

The prefects all give short nods as they pass the Professor. They don't speak as they walk through the corridors towards the Great Hall for dinner.

"It's going to be one hell of a shitstorm," Sarah mutters as they near the closed doors.

She's not wrong.

The minute they open the doors their greeted with more than a few outraged cries from their house table. Students are pointing fingers, most directed towards the Weasley twins, with bloodthirst evident in their eyes.

"Bishop, Marshall and Shrew top third of the tables. Marsha and I will take care of the latter end. Weasley…. The rest are yours," Arnold instructs.

Percy doesn't hesitate to march his way over to where Fred & George repeatedly declare their innocence. He interrupts the red faced sixth year girl pointing at the twins with a few seventh years rallying behind her.

"You will return to your seats in a civilised matter or I will be forced to send you to Professor McGonagall's office," He interrupts.

The girl, so passionate with her rage glares at Percy with little care.

"So, you can help those two trouble stirring shits go without punishment as usual? Not this time Weasley, they've taken it too far," she growled.

Percy stood firm in his stance, the shine of his badge bright and his stare cold.

"Though it may have escaped your notice, but as a prefect, I am well within my rights to deduct points should I deem it necessary."

The girls eyes widened and those closest had gone silent having heard his threat. Fred & George kept tight grips on their wands as did their friends, waiting to see the girl's response.

"Deduct points! You'd- Are you fucking blind? We're in the NEGATIVES!" she exclaimed.

The noise level was starting to calm into something more manageable as the other prefects quietened their assigned sections. Percy arches his brow, looking unaffected by her outburst, before speaking in a steady tone.

"And should you continue your unfounded accusations, I am willing to grant you the blame for sinking it further."

The girl falls speechless with disbelief as they all hear the promised threat in his tone. They also know that Percy Weasley is entirely capable of keeping his promises. She clenches her jaw and furiously stomps over to where the seventh-year prefects have sat down to eat. Arnold gives Percy a nod as Marsha quickly deals with the girl's ranting complaints about Percy.

Percy looks to the third years and gives a pleasant smile, aware of the incredibly quiet first years nearby.

"There will be a house meeting tomorrow morning. However, tonight, Years four and under will meet with their assigned prefects for an important discussion regarding the circumstances of today's events."

Percy waits until those in his section nod to show they heard before he takes his seat and begins to dish his plate. The Great Hall had finally settled into a dull buzz of conversation, but Gryffindor's table still exuded angry tension. When dinner finally comes to an end, all of Gryffindor house rise and march towards their tower.

At the back of the crowd, trooping along with nervous fidgeting, were the first year Gryffindors. Percy's rather ominous announcement had Harry and Neville sweating buckets and turning pale. Hermione's hair had frizzed wildly around her face, her knuckles clenched tightly, hidden in her robe pockets. Ron, for the most part looked unbothered, but his hands were clammy, and his ears were a hot red. Seamus couldn't keep still, acting like a hyped-up squirrel on caffeine. Lavender was tugging at the ends of her pigtails and ignoring the ache of her scalp. Parvati's lower lip wouldn't stop quivering and Dean walked as if he were heading to his execution.

The poor first years trudged along with heavy clouds of doom over their heads.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Lewis, Sarah, and Amanda lingered behind Percy as he faced the large crowd of Gryffindors. Arnold and Marsha had already booked out a room for the older years to meet, leaving the common room for the rest of them. Usually, a crowd of twenty Gryffindors probably would've been too much to handle for four prefects.

But before the newly sorted first years joined; Percy had fostered himself a reputation among the others.

They knew better than to oppose him, and not even the twins would challenge him here if they wanted. At Hogwarts, shiny badges meant something, and Percy had worked hard to earn it.

"As I'm sure you're all aware, an incident took place today resulting in a large decrease in House points, placing Gryffindor within the negatives."

Percy had barely even started his speech but already a few of the first years had ducked their heads tellingly.

"We've been informed of the events and have been assured by Professor McGonagall that the matter will be discussed with Headmaster Dumbledore tonight."

Sarah subtly nudged Lewis, discreetly pointing over to where Harry Potter squirmed. Again, Lewis didn't show her any form of agreement, but she knew it was only a matter of time before Potter cracked. The third years, who'd been with Fred & George the entire day, slowly realized Percy's speech was rather pointed. Though he didn't linger too long on anyone he sent a lecturing gaze towards, every one of them heard the scolding in his tone.

"Here at Hogwarts, we understand the concept of respect and propriety towards Professors. We are a school of unanimity and modesty."

If there's one thing Lewis had to praise Percy for, it was his talent for speeches. Some days, he thought the younger boy did a rather superb job at imitating McGonagall's stern drawl and expectant stare. Although, he could do without the occasional haughty hint in his tone that verged towards condescending.

Not for the first time, Lewis thought Percy would have made a great Slytherin.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Fred & George are slow to catch on, but they do eventually. They never could tell the difference between Percy's tempers, whether he was truly apocalyptic or simmering, because they built up an immunity to it. But here at Hogwarts, Percy had power and responsibility attached to his name. He was a Gryffindor prefect and all the Weasley children knew he was aiming for Head boy.

If Percy couldn't even control himself, his own siblings; if he couldn't show they respected his position, why would the rest of Gryffindor listen?

The tension proves too much for the poor first years. When Percy's reprimanding speech comes to an end, one of the brave firsties speaks up with a shaky tremble.

Lavender practically word vomits her version of the Potions showdown for everyone to hear. In between her babbling, Parvati, and Seamus jump in too, fighting over one another to be heard. They describe the terror they felt, the horror like nightmare of Snape's quizzing. Neville, through a series of stutters, describes his clumsy antics due to Snape's hovering, with apologies in between breaths. It's not until Dean mentions the questions Snape asked that one of the female prefects interrupts.

"He asked what?"

"He asked Potter to name some potion!" Dean repeats.

"The exact question, please" the same prefect corrects with a roll of her eyes .

Hermione, who'd been awfully quiet, answers instead. The tilt of her head projecting her unrepentant defiance all the while. In the face of their gathered Gryffindor peers, the first years show a united front. After Hermione's recited all three questions, the other fifth year prefect gives a soft gasp of realization while the two sixth year prefects grin widely.

"Those aren't covered in first year and wouldn't be in their assigned textbooks anyway."

The sixth-year boy gives a slow nod of glee.

"Snape purposely set Potter up to fail, proving he was the instigator. Potter's eleven, at that age an attitude is expected, not to mention being the Boy-who-lived. Snape even made a point about special treatment, his whole vendetta towards Potter proves him a hypocrite. Weasley and Granger getting involved only added fuel to his petty tyranny, elevating the situation to what it is."

"So… it's Granger and Weasley's fault?" a second year cautiously asked.

The fifth-year female prefect turns towards her in an instant with a stern shake of her head.

"Of course not, their children being bullied by a grown man! Their tantrums should have been expected."

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Percy is focusing on his breathing, taking slow deep breaths, and quietly exhaling, as the room erupts into debate. Half the room is calling for Ron, Harry, and Hermione to shoulder the blame and face a punishment decided by the rest of the House. The other half, one led by the twins, their friends and the first years, argue all the blame should stay on Snape. That the trio were defending themselves and Neville from bullying.

Percy refrains from reaching for his wand, knowing if it were in his hand it'd be letting off sparks. He feels a jolt to his side and finds Oliver looking him over with concern.

"You're good, Perce?"

Sarah, Lewis, and Amanda are watching him carefully, as if he's seconds from exploding. He knows without looking that Ron is doing the same from where he stands with his friends. This was not what Percy was expecting for his first year as prefect. But the situation is what it is, and he'll be damned if it costs him Head boy.

Percy gives a firm nod and claps his hands in a sequence to regain order of the room. It works like a charm and he imposes on the crowd the sternest glare he could manage.

"Who is at fault was not the purpose of tonight's gathering. Evidently, from your flagrant division you all lack a sense of respect, especially towards your fellow peers."

A few students look cowed by his words, but Percy doesn't want them to show shame.

He wants them to learn and do better.

He wants them to be Gryffindors.

Percy takes another deep breath and begins another speech, one he knows by heart and perfected with time.

"Gryffindors are brave, bold & just. They unite in the face of terror and prevail above adversity. Above all else we defend our own…"

Percy is unaware of how his fellow Prefects stand behind him as he speaks. He misses the way Oliver's eyes marvel with impassioned awe. The gleam that usually appears when the boy is obsessing over anything Quidditch. Percy stands before his fellow lions with his head high and his shoulders set. It's a posture Bill would have praised, and Charlie would applaud. He presents himself, with his gleaming prefect badge and neatly ordered robes, creating an image Fred & George share a smirk over.

Percy notices none of this as he is too busy staring down at the first years, imploring them to understand what it means to be a Lion.

No one could ever dare accuse Percy Weasley of lacking house pride.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Hermione wasn't ashamed or sorry for her involvement in the situation. She'd met her fair share of adults who thought they knew better just because they were older. Adults who heard the words 'child genius' and thought 'smart baby'. She's faced Adults who thought they could break her with words dripping with jealously, aggression, and patronizing malice. She was an individual who valued truth and fact, and she wore her honesty like a badge of honour.

Honour meant transparency, it amassed respect.

Hermione Granger is well versed in reading between the lines. She hears what the prefect doesn't say. Can identify the promise laced between his words and sentences. Percy Weasley stands before them and preaches the importance of truth and fact. He talks of battle honour and when to respect your foe. How they should acknowledge when they are faced with an enemy greater than them, but never cower.

There is no shame in ordering retreat as victory can be won in other ways.

"Godric Gryffindor may have lost many battles in his time, but it is his victorious glory in war that is remembered. We are his legacy, Brave, Bold, and Just under the banner of his name. This you must never forget," Percy implores with his head high and his stare imperial.

To quote Emily Brontë, 'Honest people don't hide their deeds,' which is the core of Percy's campaign.

Hermione smiles and stands tall as Percy Weasley reminds them of the pride of a Lion.

The scar on her neck tingles but Hermione is too consumed by the roaring in her chest to feel it.

She knows without looking that her fellow year mates are experiencing the same sensation at her side.

It's here the first years have their first taste of what it means to be a Gryffindor.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Fred & George are red in the face, biting their tongues to swallow the laugh that wishes to bubble pass their lips. Around them, their fellow housemates wear fond expressions that are still grudgingly awed by Percy's speech even now. They almost lose it when they spy Ron hiding his embarrassed flush with his hands as the rest of the ickle firsties stare at Percy like he's Godric himself. Even Potter and Granger are susceptible to his speech.

"Every bloody year," George snickers into his fist.

"Shut up Weasley, as if you weren't moved by it in your first year as well," Alicia whispered sharply.

"Moved by it? Try sick of it! We live with him, watch him practice it over and over in the mirror every year. Even Charlie who wrote the bloody thing got sick of it in the end." Fred responded.

Charlie intended for it to be a prank, convincing eleven-year-old Percy that every Gryffindor had to recite the speech to prove they understood what it meant to be a Gryffindor. Bill decided to join in on the fun and used his Prefect power to summon enough of a crowd to witness it. However, they severely underestimated the serious passion Percy would give the speech to validate his sorting. Bill and Charlie had been left dumbstruck as eleven-year-old Percy managed to rally the entire Gryffindor house into a roar of approval.

They eventually confessed to the prank, but Percy had seen it as an opportunity to start crafting his image as a prefect candidate. It was also how he gained Oliver's attention and persistent offer of friendship. Since then, Percy's managed to find a single opportunity to recite the bloody thing for every newly sorted Gryffindor. Five years of this speech, yet he still manages to wow his audience and rally up a roar.

The only first year who doesn't join is their unimpressed little Ronnie, who folds his arms and watches his friends go wild.

"Are you sure your brother's not planning on taking over the world or something?" Angelina jokes.

"Percy likes to be organized, not a lot of that when you got too much power on your hands. He's aiming a bit smaller to start off," Fred easily explains with a smirk.

Those around them laugh uneasily as they can't tell if he's joking. The prefects eventually finish their 'lecture' about respecting authority figures and allow them all to scatter. But before they could scuttle off, Percy grabs Potter, Granger and Longbottom by the cuffs of their robes. Ron, already anticipating this, slumped with a grimace as he trudged to join his group of friends.

"I've a few words to have with you lot," Percy claims.

Fred & George wince when Percy catches their eye and motions towards the fifth-year boy's dorm. They sigh but obediently stand to their feet.

"Are you coming with Lee?" they ask, but the dreadlocked boy shakes his head.

"Someone's gotta keep an ear out for when the sixth and seventh-years return. Knowing Daniels and Wilkins, their meeting probably turned into another protest gathering about you Weasleys."

Fred & George sneered showing exactly how they felt about the two prefects.

"Fredrick," Percy called, timely interrupting whatever the boy was about to say.

George quickly pushed his twin forward and they scampered up the stairs unwillingly to test their brother any further.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Harry was buzzing with euphoria and awe, having never felt so included in something before. No wonder Ron was so cool and collected during Potions. He must have learnt how to stand up for himself from Percy. Harry now felt justified for asking the hat to place him in Gryffindor. He couldn't imagine being in any other house. He looked to Hermione who was smiling like a cat who caught the cream. Even Neville was walking with his shoulders a little looser and his head high.

But Harry's joy dwindles a little once he looks at Ron. Unlike them, Ron is looking resigned and knowing as he watches Percy's back. Even the Weasley twins look like their anticipating something from the prefect. Percy leads them into the fifth-year boys dorm, and Oliver waits till they're all inside before he locks the door.

Percy turns to them with a disappointed shake of his head.

"Take a seat Longbottom, I'll speak with you last. As for the three of you…"

Harry watches as Neville warily wanders over to where Oliver is lounging on his bed. The Quidditch captain looks friendly as he tugs Neville to sit beside him. The Weasley twins had ambled over to Percy's bed, looking just as resigned as Ron. Harry looks to Hermione who shares his confusion.

"Just what were you thinking? Of all the teachers to provoke, you chose Snape?" Percy scolds.

"What?" Harry blurts unable to stop himself from voicing his confusion.

"I thought we weren't in trouble!"

Percy shakes his head looking incredibly ruffled compared to his early display in the common room.

"McGonagall has decided not to, as you were well within your rights to defend yourselves, but actions have consequences Potter. Snape will be forced to pay his dues once McGonagall is through with him," Percy explains.

Behind him the Weasley twins let out an impressed whistle.

"If McGonagall's out for blood, what are the chances Snape finally gets the sack?" George ponders.

"Nah, Dumbledore won't go for it. I mean, he's been a prick since he's started, why fire him now? He's done worse," Fred counters.

"But never has it ever affected a House to this great a scale," Percy corrects.

Harry blinks feeling incredibly blindsided by what was happening. He looked to Hermione, but she was starting to look like she agreed with what was being said. Harry, frustrated with his own inability to understand, then turned to Ron. Ron sighs and uncrossed his arms before softly explaining.

"We were still out of line, Harry. Sure, Snape started it but if we just let it be, we wouldn't have lost so many points and cost Gryffindor the cup. The other students have a right to be upset as some of them worked hard to get those points."

Percy had nodded along with Ron's explanation before he turned a glare on the sheepish twins.

"And don't think for a second the two of you are out of the clear. Twenty-five of the points lost today had been because of the prank you set up for Filch!"

"It wasn't meant for him!" The twins defended but Percy scowled at them.

"We didn't even get to finish it! It was supposed to go off next week," Fred grumbled.

Percy could hear Oliver snickering from his side of the room and did his best to ignore it. The twins were organized with their mischief. They never tried anything big during the first week back. They always waited until Gryffindor was at least in the four hundreds before they started risking points. Their twenty-five points wouldn't have been a problem if the trio hadn't lost a total of 200 between the three of them.

Before Percy and the twins could bicker any further, Ron let out a heavy sigh gaining their attention.

"Get on with it, Perce, what's it gonna be?"

Harry swallowed, nervous at what the older boy might say. He looked over to Hermione who stood like a soldier about to be sent to the trenches. He envied her easy stance and steeled nerve. Would Percy send them to Dumbledore? Were they about to get expelled? Of course, Ron wouldn't be in trouble as he'd just been defending Harry. Neville too, as he'd known to keep his mouth shut. Hermione's parents probably won't care, Harry still remembered how they fussed over her at the station. But Harry didn't have parents, he had the Dursley's. He could already picture his Uncle's red walrus face full of rage.

Percy thought for a second or two before nodding his head decisively.

"The three of you will be grounded for a week."

"What does that mean?" Harry fretted.

He's heard of the term but never seen it put in place. Dudley never got grounded and Harry only knew about extra chores as punishment. He vaguely remembered Piers getting grounded once. The bully claimed his dad had locked him in the cellar after 50 whacks to his backside. If so, Harry thought he could handle getting locked away for a week. Afterall, he used to sleep in a cupboard when he was younger.

Percy eyed the three of them sternly before elaborating.

"Starting Monday, the three of you will join myself and a few other students for study after dinner. You'll be timely when it comes to curfew and will check in with either Oliver or myself at lunch time."

"That's it?" Harry blurts, surprised it wasn't anything like he imagined.

"Ow! Hermione" he yelped as Hermione elbowed him with a glare.

"Are you trying to get him to add more?" she hissed while the twins laughed.

Percy ignored the laughter and cleared his throat demandingly.

"Am I understood?"

Ron took initiative to respond, giving both Hermione and Harry a warning glance to pay attention.

"Yes Percy," they echoed with agreeable nods.

Satisfied, Percy then turned his attention to the twins.

"As for you two…"

"What? Gonna ground us too?" Fred provoked.

"Keep us in line with a guard on our tail?" George added

Percy pointed a warning finger their way, accomplishing an exceptionally good imitation of his mother.

"Not another toe out of lie, and no pranks for a month."

The twins sucked in a sharp gasp before they lunged to their feet in protest.

"A MONTH! Why a month?"

As Percy dealt with the twins, the trio conversed among themselves. Ron looked rather relieved while Hermione appeared thoughtful. Harry was still feeling rather bewildered.

"Is this usually what happens when you get grounded?" Harry asked.

"I wouldn't know. I've never done anything big enough to get grounded back at home," Hermione shrugged.

Ron stared at them, astonished by how fascinated Hermione sounded and Harry's confusion. Just what kind of life had the two been living before Hogwarts? Molly Weasley grounded at least one of her children every month, extending it if she felt they'd not learnt their lesson. The twins, Charlie and Ginny were very experienced survivors of her groundings. Ron rarely ever fell victim to it and Percy had only gone under it once and never again. Bill never got grounded by mum, only twice by their dad.

"Bloody hell, you're not supposed to sound so mesmerized by it!" He exclaimed with a shake of his head.

"I know, I just… I thought we'd have to do chores or get locked away for a bit," Harry admitted with a squirm.

Now even Hermione was staring at Harry with disbelief.

"We talked back to a teacher Harry, not murdered someone. We're grounded, not being sentenced to life behind bars," Hermione scoffed.

Harry turned red with embarrassment as Ron gaped at him.

"No seriously, what kind of life have you been living?" the red head blurted.

Harry expertly changed the subject by provoking Hermione into an irritated rant about what justifies sending children to prison. Distracting Ron and Harry as they wondered why on earth, she'd even know about such a topic. Harry's homelife, for the moment, went forgotten. But just like Neville's accidental slip about his Uncle Algie, Hermione and Ron made a mental note to keep a close ear out.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

"Keeping alright, mate?" Oliver checked with a grin.

Neville nodded but by the way he kept worrying at his sleeves, it was clearly a lie. Oliver carefully hid his concern for the younger boy as Percy's theory proved correct. It never sat well with him to see sensitive kids trying to keep it together when they're obviously unsettled. Neville, from what he'd seen so far, was a great kid despite being rather timid. Snape was a right tit for purposely pressuring the poor lad.

"Now, the five you are you excused, but if I hear any more complaints or whisper of trouble involving the five of you, I'll be writing Bill and leaving you to McGonagall's mercy," Percy warned.

The Weasley boys cringed at the mention of their older brother while Hermione and Harry nodded feeling properly chastised.

"Now, out you go," Percy ushered.

Oliver saw how Neville's shoulders hunched higher and his fingers clenched round his sleeves. He ensured the timid boy was aware of his intentions before he patted the boys shoulder in comfort. Neville didn't flinch at his touch, nor did he shy away, which eased Oliver's suspicions about physical abuse.

"Wait! What about Neville?" they heard Harry protest as the twins ushered the trio out.

"He's fine, Percy's just wanting a bit of a chat," George assured.

Oliver saw Ron and Hermione whisper something to Harry which had him calm down.

"We'll wait for you outside, okay Neville?" Ron assured.

The round boy gave another small nod but seemed a little more relaxed when all three first years sent a smile his way. At least until the twins shut the door behind them with a tight slam that ominously echoed. Oliver groaned as Percy bristled with irritation.

"Bloody terrors," the prefect muttered.

"It's how they show they care," Oliver sarcastically drawled as Percy scoffed.

The two fifth years knew the following conversation would need delicate treatment. Percy and Oliver kept an easy banter going, hoping the first year would relax a bit more before they broached the topic. Neville surprised them both by speaking first with an earnest shout.

"I'm sorry!"

"Sorry? What for? You did nothing wrong," Oliver said with an exaggerated splutter.

Percy rolled his eyes, let it be said that Oliver had no future in theatre. Ignoring his ridiculous friend, Percy sat on Neville's other side, keeping his voice soft and sincere.

"Calm down Neville, no need to panic. I'm not going to ground you or anything similar."

Neville turned his wide-eyed stare towards Percy, exposing the quiver of his lip.

"I just wanted to check you were feeling better after today's excitement. I know very well how intimidating Professor Snape's hovering can be."

Oliver feels his hatred for Snape increase a little more at seeing the desperation in Neville's eyes when he looks at Percy.

"Y-You do?" Neville mumbles.

Percy hums before he shares the story of his own first day of Potions. Oliver quips in his own memory of the day every once and awhile. They then branch out and talk about other times they'd felt completely overwhelmed and intimidated by something or the other. They talk until Neville finally relaxes completely. Oliver softly smiles as he watches Percy earnestly tell Neville about his first-year jitters beyond potions. He couldn't deny the pride he had for his best friend. Not when he still remembered eleven-year-old Percy surrounded by towers of book stacks studying late into the night long after curfew. Soon enough, Oliver joined him, using those late nights to study and create his own quidditch plays.

"My dad wouldn't have feared Snape. He would have been able to raise his hand for a question," Neville quietly admitted.

Oliver feels his heart melt when Percy nods, not in agreement, never in agreement, but in consideration. It's no secret, to those old enough to look further into it, about what happened to the Longbottom's during the war.

"Maybe not, but you are not you're father."

Neville looks up at that, revealing the teary shine to his eyes.

"You're Neville Longbottom and this is your time at Hogwarts, not his. I want you to think extremely hard about this Neville, but when it's time to leave Hogwarts behind how do you want to be remembered? Who do you want to be?" Percy prompts.

Neville's swallows and the tears in his eyes bubble over, Oliver grins as the younger boy croaks his answer.

"Me, just me. I want to be remembered as me. I-I want to be brave enough to be… me."

Percy smiles, the soft kind Oliver's only ever seen directed towards his younger brothers' in private. He then offers out a hand and nods with complete confidence.

"Then I look forward to seeing who you become. You're a Gryffindor now Neville and in Gryffindor we have the roar of a lion in our hearts."

The line is ridiculous, but what sets Oliver off into a laughing fit is Percy's complete and utter shock when Neville ignores his hand and hugs him instead. Percy glares at him over Neville's sobbing head, but Oliver can't stop.

"Will you put a cork in it, Oliver," Percy hissed.

"Never!" Oliver mocks while laughing harder.

Not when Percy is incredibly careful to ensure Neville is comfortable in his hold. Not when he once again proves to be the complete mother hen, Oliver knew him to be.

"Just another chick in the pen, right Percy?" Oliver teased when Neville finally feels collected enough to leave.

"Oh, shut up."

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

When Neville opens the door, Hermione and Harry are the first to crowd him. Their bickering completely forgotten at seeing clear evidence of Neville's tears.

"What happened, Neville?" Hermione pesters.

"Did you get grounded too?" Harry questions.

Neville quickly assures them he's fine while wiping his face. He ignores their doubtful expressions in favour of looking to Ron. Ron is watching Neville with a confused frown, scanning the boy, and wondering what the bloody hell Percy talked to him about.

"You alright, Nev?" the red head asked.

Neville nods with a beautifully wide smile, so bright it momentarily renders the trio silent.

"Yeah, yeah, fantastic actually. Percy… he's… a good bloke, you know."

The trio share bewildered looks with one another, before looking back at Neville.

"Um…" Harry hums

"…Of course," Hermione adds

"Definitely," Ron confirms with a solemn nod of his head.

Neville gifts them with another wide smile, and they're staggered by how it changes him completely. He then looks at Ron with an expression that almost looks like a jealous pout. Harry and Hermione blink as the two boys exchange a wordless understanding, they're not privy to.

"You're lucky, you know," Neville huffs.

Ron snorts but his lips turn up into a grinning smirk.

"Yeah, I know."

Neville then says he'll see them in the common room and pushes pass them. Ron chuckles and shakes his head as if Neville just told a funny joke. He stops when he realizes Hermione and Harry are staring at him with varying expressions. Hermione looks incredibly impatient while Harry is practically vibrating in place.

"What?" Ron grumbles.

"What? What do you mean 'what'? What was that?" Harry gapes.

Ron shushes Harry and quickly motions for them to follow him. He leads them to the first-year dorms for the boys. Hermione scrunches her nose with disgust at its messy state, specifically towards Seamus's bed full of junk.

"How on- It's only been a week!" she mutters with disbelief.

Ron gives a careless shrug as Harry grins sheepishly.

"We're boys," the red head declares as if it excuses everything.

From the considerate hum Hermione gives in return, maybe it does.

"Okay, but why are we in here? Why couldn't we just go back into the common room?" Harry starts looking rather frustrated.

Why is it he always needs to wait to get answers to his questions?

Ron sighs again before falling back onto his bed. Hermione opts to lean against his bed post while Harry settles on his own bed.

"We're grounded remember, and curfew's coming up soon. Figured I'll just save myself some time and get in early."

"Percy said it didn't start till Monday," Harry protested.

"Yes, but if we want to finish it early and get off thanks to good behaviour, we should start now," Ron said with a roll of his eyes.

"Now it really does sound like jail. Omph!"

Ron snorted as Harry toppled back from getting slapped in the face by his pillow. The green-eyed boy huffed with a glare and wore a put-out pout.

"Pfft, Drama queen," Ron muttered.

"You sound rather experienced. Do you get grounded a lot?" Hermione questioned, ignoring Harry's offended puff at being called dramatic.

Ron shrugged and reached for the chocolate frogs he won off Seamus during a late-night game of exploding snap.

"Not really, but if you do the crime you should do the time. At least that's what Percy likes to say. Its not all bad anyway. We just gotta do a bit more study, say hi to him and Oliver at lunch and get to bed on time. Could have been worse, you know? Mum would have had us working like house elves in the green houses and serving detention for two weeks with McGonagall or something. She's a firm believer in having the crime fit the punishment, but if she can get a bit of free labour out of it, why not?"

Hermione hummed thoughtfully before muttering "I suppose that's fair."

"But then what about Neville? What'd he do to make him cry?" Harry pushed unable to ignore his curiosity.

Ron shrugged again with half a chocolate frog hanging out of his mouth.

"Dunno, probably just talked to him. Oh, come on, you saw how he was tonight with his speeches? Percy's got a real gift with words. He can talk you to tears, bore you to tears, whatever works. Hell, he can even put you to sleep if you let him chatter long enough," Ron jokes causing Harry to laugh.

Hermione sighs and shakes her head at their boyish manner before pushing away from the post and giving a short wave.

"Well then, I'll see you in the morning. I might as well continue reading my copy of 'Advanced Potion Making' before bed."

Ron froze mid-chew while Harry tilted his head in confusion.

"What book is that? I only have 'One thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi'. That wasn't on the textbook list, was it?" he says.

Harry suddenly thought he'd maybe forgotten to buy a textbook, which is why he couldn't answer Snape's questions. Ron swallows the rest of his chocolate frog and stares at Hermione like she's just announced she had an elephants' nose or something.

"That's because it's a N.E.W.T level textbook full of advanced stuff, hence the bloody title. Blimey Hermione, why'd you buy that already? We wouldn't need to even look at it until seventh year!"

Hermione huffs before straightening her robes and looking down at the two boys.

"Obviously because I finished our first-year textbook and sought further resources. I wasn't going to let something ridiculous like an age restriction keep me from learning more about something I found interesting. So long as I don't attempt any practical recreations, exploring the theoretical concepts are completely acceptable."

Harry and Ron are still blinking at her, stunned silent. The bushy haired girl scoffs, her eyes suddenly darkening while her hair frizzed a little at the ends.

"Now I'm glad I had the foresight to skim through it the night before. If I hadn't Snape's silly quiz would have given me a challenge. Since I don't plan on ever getting less than an 'O' in every Potions' class we have till we graduate, I'm gonna use every advantage I can think of. So, if you may excuse me." she finishes with an intimidating nod of her head before striding out the door.

Ron lets a huff of utter bewilderment escape before looking to Harry.

"There is definitely something not right about her," he declares causing Harry to nod in complete agreement.

Ron begins to open another pack of chocolate frogs when Harry tiredly sighs.

"We're going to have to read it too, aren't we?"

"Yep."

Harry flops back onto his bed with a groan while Ron nods sympathetically from his.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Oliver looks up from his Quidditch mag and sees Percy straightening his robes, looking ready to leave.

"And just where do you think you're going? You don't have patrol tonight," he asks, turning on his side with a quirked brow.

Percy polishes his badge before clipping it on and distractedly gives an answer.

"Amanda agreed to swap with me. She was partnered with Gemma tonight and I need to have a word with her."

Oliver sighs and slowly shakes his head.

"Haven't you done enough today?"

Percy turns to Oliver, the expression he wears is distant and aloof. It's enough to have Oliver sitting up in his bed on high alert. Shit, he'd underestimated just how pissed Percy was about Snape picking on little Ronnie and his new friends.

"With the amount of responsibilities, I have. It's never enough. Now if you'd excuse me, I'll try to be quiet when I return. Don't try staying up too late just because I'm not here."

The prefect gives a stern nod, before turning on his heel and leaving. Oliver sighs, staring at the closed door with an exhausted frown.

"Sometimes, I really wish he took his own advice," he then flopped back onto his bed and returned to his reading.

But his mind never stopped worrying about his Prefect best friend, who tended to forget he didn't need to be perfect.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

"Oh, he's really done it now, hasn't he?" Pomona Sprout muttered in the ear of her co-worker.

Filius Flitwick sighed and gave an exasperated grimace in agreement. They'd been stuck in Dumbledore's office for over an hour now. What had started as an incredibly frosty discussion had quickly dissolved into a heated argument between two stubborn forces. Minerva McGonagall would not back down this time no matter how often Albus Dumbledore attempted intervened. In contrast, Severus Snape refused to admit to his folly and own up to his mistreatment.

The two had always had a simmering undercurrent of tension between them since Snape's employment. As was the case for every Slytherin and Gryffindor alumni. Some rivalries never ended once you graduate, and some actions never forgotten. While Minerva had never outwardly spoken against Albus' decision to grant Snape employment, her disagreement was felt. She didn't trust the boy and Sprout supposed she could understand why. It was rather hard to trust a man from the enemy's side of war after losing so many precious souls dear to your heart.

The Marauders and Lily Evans had been her cubs, her precious lion cubs.

Gryffindor had lost the most in the war, and Minerva wore that heartache on her sleeves, obvious for anyone who knew where to look. Snape's presence was like taunting a kitten with string, and the foolish boy used it to his advantage at times. Specifically, times such as this.

"The boy is an arrogant pretentious little chit just like his father, with no respect for anyone beyond his own image," Snape finally snarled.

"Tut tut, what a silly boy," Flitwick mumbled with a shake of his head.

Sprout hummed in agreement and they both settled back to watch McGonagall let loose. Dumbledore himself leaned back into his chair, knowing better than to attempt to calm the lioness after such a comment.

"That boy is an eleven-year old student in this school. A school you swore to serve and honour. Don't dare stand across from me and sprout words such as respect when it is clear you've no idea of it's definition. Harry Potter might be a boy in your eyes, but frankly from what I heard, he proved he was more of a man than you, who would dare bully a child!" she scathingly accused, through her thick Scottish accent.

Snape's face turned a furious red, but McGonagall's entire manner remained regal. If not for her accent and the raging bright fury in her eyes, one wouldn't even notice the magnitude of her anger.

"As I expected, it's evident to me that the favouritism afforded to the father now continues in the son," Snape sneered.

Sprout and Flitwick let out sharp gasps at Snape's audacity and not even Dumbledore could hide his disappointment. McGonagall had not outwardly reacted but the air around her bristled with magic, making the hair on everyone's arm stand on end.

"James Potter will always be a far greater man than you could ever hope to be. Make no mistake, Severus, if not for Albus' constant defence of your importance and competent talent in potions, I would see you unemployed. Far away from the children in this castle in need of sheltering from your bitter regrets and shameful outbursts."

McGonagall ensures she's staring Snape dead in the eye when she spoke her final lines.

"Lily herself would have condemned you to the deepest pits of hell for your actions today. Never forget that Harry Potter is the progeny of two great lions," she scorns.

The silent 'and she didn't pick you' was heard by everyone.

Snape stumbled back, as if having suffered a great blow to his chest. He had paled at her words while his eyes exposed the depths of his heartbreak. For a moment, the professors were reminded that the Potions master was years younger than all of them. But McGonagall felt no sympathy for the man, for he was no longer a child and should know better than to act like one.

"That is enough, Minerva. I think you have said all that was needed to be said," Dumbledore softly declared.

McGonagall turned her scorned stare towards him but didn't say anything further. Not when his blue-eyed stare lacked its usual twinkle. For all Dumbledore liked to portray a humble old wizard full of quirks, McGonagall never forgot the man was a Lion alumni as well.

"It is clear to me that today's incident was the consequence of tempers meeting unfavourably. In saying so, I believe I've decided an appropriate resolution to the mishap."

All four professor's looked to the Headmaster expectantly.

"Until he proves otherwise capable of separating his own bias from his actions, Professor Snape will no longer be allowed to deduct points from any student attending Hogwarts. Effective immediately, he will also be scheduled to attend several counselling sessions with myself to discuss his obvious trauma and inner conflict from past distress experienced as a student."

Both Snape and McGonagall looked as if they had objections to his decision, but Dumbledore silenced them with a stern stare.

"In addition, Professor McGonagall will not be allowed to award any points to Gryffindor House until the year end."

McGonagall looked rightly insulted, but Snape looked appeased. She nearly let loose another furious protest towards the Headmaster but tempered herself by remembering the needs of her cubs. Flitwick and Sprout shared an uneasy glance as they realized what this would mean for them. With Snape no longer allowed to deduct points and McGonagall unable to award Gryffindor points, the two would undoubtedly be targeted by the lions for point awards until they make up the difference on the score board.

Another glance at McGonagall had both Flitwick and Sprout inwardly groaning as it was clear the Lioness intended to win the House cup to spite the Snake. Dumbledore turned a genial smile towards them, the twinkle returning to his blue-eyes.

"Professors' Flitwick & Sprout, might you have anything you'd like to add?" he prompted.

"I only hope you intend to personally inform the rest of the staff yourself," Flitwick dryly answered.

"You're a cruel man, Albus. I can only imagine the chaos my badgers are going to rally in support of the lions," Sprout sighed.

"It'll be nothing compared to my Ravens once they realize the effect it'll have on them. Gryffindor has quite a number of minds that would've put several of my Ravens to shame if they endeavoured to try," Flitwick snorted.

"Excellent," Dumbledore cheerfully piped.

"That concludes this meeting, may you enjoy the rest of your evening. Severus and I will be starting our first session tonight."

The Professors' nod and stand to leave, but McGonagall and Snape stand across from one another for a few extra seconds. The tension between them blistering like a bubbling cauldron threatening to explode.

"You can be assured, Severus, that unlike yourself, my lions know better than to lay the blame of one man's idiocy at the feet of those in his charge. Enjoy the rest of your evening."

With that said, McGonagall sauntered out of the room with the style of a Queen. She left in her wake a stiff faced snake and a weary old Lion. Dumbledore didn't say a word until the others well and truly left. Only then did he sigh heavily and shake his head at the boy across from him, the disappointment on his face evident for all to see.

"Oh Severus, what am I going to do with you?" he sighed.

Snape did not answer.

He slumped in his chair, folding over like soggy parchment with the beginning of bitter regret seeping into his eyes.

But there was no taking back what had already been done.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Percy had turned the corner and frowned at the empty corridor. Gemma was supposed to be meeting Amanda here and with his last-minute offer to swap, he was already late. She should have been waiting, but the corridor appeared suspiciously empty. He walked the corridor twice, using the time to contemplate tomorrow's needs, only to startle when hands clapped him on the shoulders from behind. Percy had his wand in hand within seconds and twisted out of his assaulter's grip using a move Bill taught him. He managed to flip the situation to his advantage, exhaling once he realized their identity.

Gemma grinned up at him with all the charm of a snake, the mischief in her eyes evident.

"I really don't understand why Hogwarts' keeps calling you a quivering bottom. From here, you feel more like a stiff top," she cheekily teases.

Percy rolled his eyes, relaxing his hold and letting her slip free. The Slytherin prefect winked at him suggestively as she slid her wand back into her holster. He made a show of straightening his robes and flashing his prefect badge as a reminder. Unlike her, he kept his wand in hand and his back to the wall.

"How long have you been watching?" he criticizes.

Gemma shrugs before scanning him suggestively and winking.

"Long enough to appreciate the view, remind me to thank Shrew next time I see her. The girl sure knows how to give a girl what she wants."

Percy scoffs as he folds his arms and completely ignores her teasing.

"I'm glad you're having a good enough evening," he starts.

Gemma snorts and shakes her head with something akin to fondness.

"Always straight to business with you, isn't it Weasley? You should make like those pesky demon twins of yours and learn to get a bit bent. The fun way of course. Hell, if you make it a party, I've already a guest list of people willing to dine with a few kitty cats for a bit of fun."

Percy frowns down at her sternly until she eventually gives in. The tease in her tone swapped for cold indifference and the mischief in her eyes now chilly and considering.

"Fine, I suppose I can hear you out. So long as you don't mind a bit of walking with this chatter, We've still got to patrol."

Percy nods in agreement and begins to lead. They start with idle small talk, taking the time to evaluate each other's mood. Their topics are light, about classes and holidays. They don't talk about family or their houses. Not yet. When they finish patrolling the second floor and make to head for the fourth floor, Gemma decides their ready to get to the big stuff.

"Flint mentioned you chased after him for reassurance before the sorting. Are you seeking something similar?"

Percy frowns and gives a short shake of his head, eyeing the girl beside him cautiously.

"No, Ron's a lion and settling well. He has more than enough support."

"Hm, then I was right to think this is more of a peace treaty than a trade," she mumbles looking thoughtfully distracted.

Percy knows better than to believe her ruse and stops walking to face her directly. She doesn't hesitate to meet his stare, looking up at him calculatedly. He 'thoughtfully' places his wand hand beneath his chin. The wand still in hand hums, responding to his magic. It's a power move, the intention behind it well received by the way she twirls her own wand between her fingers.

"You know my policies, Gemma. I may be able to sway a few things, depending on the circumstances," he neutrally offers.

Gemma smirks, but the expression is no where near kind.

"Do you take me for a fool? I know the worth of a Weasley's promise, a bit of reassurance is the second-best thing."

At that, Percy finally lets an honest smile appear and the tension between them eases into something friendlier. The cold in Gemma's eyes fades into genuine worry.

"We got more snakes this year than ever, but Flint wants better watch over one in specific. She's been taken in by this year's neutrals, but they can't always be seen with her, or else they'll risk their position. For the most part she seems to be surviving, but you know how it is. Sooner or later surviving won't be enough, and she'll meet the end of someone's wand. She's got the core of a Slytherin for sure. But, as we both know, cunning can only get you so far."

Percy hums as he tries to puzzle out possible solutions that will work to both their advantages.

"Muggle-born?"

"Half-blood," Gemma corrects and Percy grins as it confirms the situation isn't as hopeless as he thought.

"Even better. What's the name?" he prompts.

Gemma grins and he pretends not to see the relief in her eyes.

"Tracy Davis. She won't thank you for the help, has enough pride to rival you lions, so best keep the 'coincidences' to a minimum."

Percy chuckles and speaks with a haughty smirk, his eyes gleaming with prideful knowing.

"You're in luck, two of my best needed a distraction after today's excitement. They'll appreciate the project."

Or at least they better, Percy would extend the twin's punishment to four months if they screwed this up.

Gemma let out a whistle, but the grateful glint to her eyes revealed her inner thoughts. Percy couldn't help the satisfied smirk that appeared on his lips for causing it. He ignored the warm sensation blooming in his chest, certain it was nothing but a bit of heartburn.

"Well, well, the little firstie's luck is sure to change if she'll have Weasley's finest seeing her safe."

Gemma's words are teasing, but Percy thought they'd sounded rather soft for a second. It was a sure sign he needed to hurry up and head to bed or risk his mind playing further tricks on him. He cleared his throat, his tone returning to it's earlier stern tenor.

"You mentioned a treaty…" he leads.

Gemma hums, flapping her hand carelessly as she moves forward and checks a few broom cupboards.

"Mmh, I suppose I did. Interested in them, are you?" she teased while looking over her shoulder.

Percy sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. He knew better than to agree to a Slytherin's demands first, especially so he could avoid their taunting game of cat and mouse. Merlin, he should have just waited till tomorrow and have Oliver help him corner Marcus. Why did he always attempt to deal with Gemma first? He always forgot his bloody wits and the fact she loves a game of tease and chase. Clearly the day has exhausted him far too much.

"You know I am," he sighed.

Gemma snickered before facing him fully, her wand twirling in between her fingers with practised ease. Percy blinked away his distraction and settled on glaring at her.

"Snape is still the Head of our House, Percy. Half-Blood weakling or not, we can't outwardly show our hand. Flint wants to play it close to the chest. He'd rather see where the cards fall as the rest of the year pans out," she hums circling him and never once fumbling with her wand.

Percy keeps an eye on her wand as he thinks over her words.

"Flint can't afford to wait till the end of the year. I don't, can't and won't speak for those above me, he knows this. After today, Snape will be lucky if McGonagall chooses to still acknowledge his authority as a teacher."

Gemma stops twirling her wand, leaning over his left shoulder from behind looking rather thoughtful. Percy inwardly groans, while outwardly rolling his eyes, and leans away from her too close grin.

"Oh dear, sounds like quite the conundrum," she tenderly simpers.

Percy can't stop himself from groaning out loud this time. He can tell from the way she's grinning that she wants something else from him.

"Fine, fine spit it out already. What do you want?" he sneers, but Gemma's grin only widens in response.

"Another trade rather than a treaty. We snakes will play fair for the rest of the year IF you lions promise to wipe the Ravenclaws completely out of the running."

Percy blinks at the strange offer, feeling rather confused.

"Slytherin is allies with Ravenclaw…" he cautiously words.

Gemma grins sharply, her expression childishly innocent.

"If you want an even field, Weasley, you have to get rid of the waste. We both know Hufflepuff won't stand a chance against a House of scorned lions. The bloody badgers would happily step aside if you lions stir up enough of a fuss. The Ravens, however, have been sitting far too comfortably on their perches for awhile now. A shift in dynamic will be exactly what they need. You get them off the board, and we promise a fair play."

Percy struggles to figure out why Flint would push for abandoning Slytherin and Ravenclaw's long time alliance. At most, he expected the Slytherins to afford the Ravenclaws neutrality, while the rest of them battle for the House cup. If he's pushing for a complete Wipeout in favour of a two-way battle between Gryffindor and Slytherin… well it's just strange.

Perhaps Marcus wanted to challenge Oliver beyond the Quidditch pitch? Maybe he wanted to stretch their intense Quidditch Rivalry into the classroom as well?

Still… Percy couldn't help but feel he was missing something.

He considered Gemma's innocent grin a few seconds further before slowly nodding his head.

"Alright, if Marcus is sure that's his call, then I'll see it through. It's a promise of fair play for the rest of the year," he agreed.

Gemma smiled widely; the Cheshire stretch of her cheeks making Percy feel like he'd just lost this strange game they'd been playing. He'd never seen Gemma look so satisfied before and he wasn't sure what to make of it. She took his offered hand and then gave a firm shake to seal the transaction. Percy felt his neck grow warm as her fingers slowly slipped from his. He frowned irately and hoped he wasn't about to get the flu or something other. He had too much to do tomorrow to cater to a cold.

"I guess I've got myself a promise then," she murmured, her eyes sparkling with delight.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Gabriel Truman did not plan to spend his evening this way at all. The night had started relatively well, with a delicious feast and an unexpected show of entertainment. One that had him laughing with his mates as they watched the Gryffindor's rage. It was all in good fun at first until word finally reached their table on what Snape had done. The laughter stopped abruptly and turned into dark mutterings of loathing.

How pathetic does a man have to be to bully a couple of first years?

Maybe if Gabriel had paid closer attention, he would have heard the name 'Weasley' and been alert.

Maybe if he cared less for his responsibilities as a sixth-year prefect, he would have ignored it.

But damn his bloody heart and it's Hufflepuff core.

How could he have said no to the earnest and fretful mutterings of Cedric Diggory?

Cedric had been acting strange ever since the sorting and all the badgers were taking notice. How could they not? Cedric had endeared himself to all of them with his Golden boy smile and rather heroic charms. Gabriel would eat his hat if the boy didn't make prefect in his fifth year, or even Head boy one day.

So there Gabriel had been, pleasantly full after a good meal and ready for a bit of lazy lounging in the common room. He'd slipped on his fuzzy socks with stitched honey pots, had a hot cuppa tea in hand and was ready to read by the fire until curfew. It would have been the perfect way to end his first week back at Hogwarts. Completely Perfect!

Until bloody Cedric Diggory, with his dark hair and charming grey eyes, wouldn't stop pacing about in the common room.

Gabriel had to ask what was bothering the third year, especially since he was making a few of the younger ones anxious.

"Merlin's bloody good cock, what the hell is the matter with you Cedric?" Gabriel groaned with a whine.

Cedric turned to him looking caught off guard, the fret in his form still evident.

"I don't think you should be saying things like that in front of the kids, Gabe," Cedric absently mumbled with a disapproving grimace.

Gabriel frowned and sipped at his cuppa, only to find it had cooled significantly and was now unappealing.

"Well it's loads better than damning the poor bugger's saggy balls. I mean, if he ever decides to come back as some mystical figure or whatever, how'd you think he'd feel knowing all of Wizarding Britain thinks his balls are wrinkled or hairy? If it were me, I'd at least want a compliment or two on occasion. Shit like that can mess with a blokes confidence you know," he reasoned.

Gabriel hadn't even noticed the fifth-year prefect creeping up behind him until she'd whacked him hard on the head with thick rolled-up parchment.

"Ouch! What hell Dubois?" he yelped as his tea spilled over from his shock.

Melissa looked down at him with a glowering glare and dried his sleeve with a wave of her wand.

"Susan Bones told me you were out here talking about cocks for all the innocents to hear," she accused.

Gabriel rubbed at his head, the sulky expression on his face only exaggerated a little bit.

"Yeah, well someone should warn her about what happens to a Badger that snitches. A good puff doesn't betray another puff and a great puff definitely doesn't tattle."

Melissa, however, had completely ignored his grumbling in favour of addressing the fretful Cedric.

"Though, he's not wrong. You've been out of sorts since dinner and its starting to worry the rest of the house."

"Dinner? Try the sorting! Don't tell me it's got something to do with the Weasley twins again? I thought you'd gotten over that," Gabriel added, now sitting up and looking more authoritative compared to his earlier manner.

"No, it's not Fred & George. They've got bigger interests than me this year and probably for the rest of our Hogwarts days," Cedric groans before settling into his favourite comfy chair.

And it really was Cedric's chair.

It was literally named 'Diggory's throne' because the boy was always in it. Of course, ever the humble and gracious badger, Cedric insisted it was just a joke shared among the house.

It really wasn't.

Not when it helped reflect the glow of the fire in his eyes and gave his entire profile a royal sort of presence.

Cedric could pretend all he liked but Gabriel knew the truth. Although, what did it matter if a could've been lion had chosen to live among the badgers? Afterall, the Lions housed Percy Weasley and his demon twin brothers who were so obviously snakes in disguise. If Cedric chose to be a Badger King instead of a Lion prince, who were they to say otherwise?

Gabriel sighed, suddenly feeling a little miffed he'd have graduated before he could see Cedric really start to lead Hufflepuff.

"But it is a Weasley, isn't it?" Melissa softly pressed.

Cedric gave a slow nod, looking so full of concern, Gabriel couldn't take it any longer. He jumped to his feet with an incredibly annoyed growl and flicked his wand to summon his shoes.

"Ugh, I give up! Just tell us what's wrong so I can go try and do something about it. I hate seeing you all mopey and sad, like an abandoned pup or kitten begging for a meal!"

Cedric perked up immediately looking better already and Gabriel wished he could hate the boy for being so unfairly endearing.

"You will? Geez, you're the best Gabe, really!" Cedric praised.

Gabriel hated himself for ruining a perfect night of lazy relaxation in favour of being responsible. He pointedly ignored Melissa's smirk from her seat close to Cedric's right. After lacing his shoes and finishing his disgustingly cold cuppa, Gabriel was made aware of the situation.

He settled the empty cup on one of the tables and sighed grumpily before trudging his way out the badger hole.

"…And now I have to go talk to bloody Percy Weasley. Great, what a way to spend my Friday night. Silly Cedric and his stupid Weasley soft heart. Stupid Snape and his fucking prick ways. Ugh, politics suck so much…" he muttered as he marched to meet with Penelope Clearwater for patrol.

The Ravenclaw prefect was right to be surprised by his appearance. Friday was supposed to be the fifth-year female's patrol night, but oh well, guess things change.

"You need to talk to Percy? But he's not scheduled for patrol tonight," Penelope stated with a confused scrunch of her brows.

Gabriel once again hated himself for being so fucking soft. Ugh, it was so obvious she had the hots for the Gryffindor stiff. If he had to spend the entire patrol with her trying to pretend otherwise, he's going to scream. Cedric better not be wrong about his guess. If he was right… maybe he should be concerned the younger boy was stalking Percy?

"The things I do for my badgers'…." He grumbled with a sigh.

Penelope looked at him as if waiting for something and it unnerved him to stare at her for too long. Did Ravenclaws really have to act like bloody birds because they got sorted into one?

"Let's finish the sixth floor and make our way towards the fifth. If my source is right, Weasley and Farley will probably have talked shop on the fourth floor before settling," He sighs before leading the way.

Penelope troops along beside him looking thoughtful. Gabriel hated it when a Ravenclaw started thinking too close to him, it always led to questions or lectures. Two things he could really do without on a Friday night. Once again, damn his stupid soft heart.

"Your source is awfully specific…" she starts with a hinting smile.

UGH! Politics fucking suck so bad!

"Don't even try with me, Clearwater, badgers don't snitch. If you want to know so badly, do like the Raven you are and study up."

Penelope pouts, which he can't help but notice, makes her look rather cute. He knows the game she's trying to start with him, but he's not in the mood to play. Like ever.

"Come on Truman, at least give a keyword or a prompt!" she attempts to weasel.

HAH! Weasel, blimey what a pun.

"Fine, the keyword is 'Nunya'," he taunts.

The glare she levels at him ruins the joke set up and he sighs.

"Penny, look. Do you really think I'd be here, on a Friday night looking for Percy Weasley, if I didn't have business to settle? I'm doing a favour for a friend, that's it."

Penelope sighs and accepts his reason, but it doesn't get rid of the persistent curiosity in her eyes.

"Fine, but just… answer this one question and I'll drop it completely."

He rolls his eyes but grudgingly waves for her to ask.

"Does she have a crush on Percy?" she blurts.

Gabriel doesn't even try to stop himself; he throws his head back and laughs like he's been hit with a tickling charm. Perhaps that was the intention of some mystic force, as Percy Weasley and Gemma Farley happen upon them in such a state.

"Truman? I thought you begged off Fridays due to some important matter or some other," Percy wondered with that pompous stare of his.

Gabriel sobered from his laughing fit and wiped at his eyes. He completely ignored the slow growing tension between the two females, while Percy remained oblivious.

"Farley, lovely evening."

"Clearwater."

Gabriel straightened out of his slouch and inwardly locked away all his earlier frustration. Instead, he embraced the responsible sixth year Hufflepuff prefect he needed to be for the moment.

"Weasley, fancy a bit of a wander? So long as Farley doesn't mind a short switch of partners," he suggested.

Penelope and Gemma wore the same strained grins on their lips, both knew it was hardly a suggestion and more of an order. Gabriel, for all his lazy and relaxed ways, was still their Senior Prefect. Not even Percy could deny him even if he wanted. The Hufflepuff tried not to show just how uncomfortable the respect and authority made him feel.

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

They stayed on the fifth floor, the girls still in sight, but didn't speak until Gabriel was sure they'd not be heard. Percy tried not to show his apprehension as the older Hufflepuff had a reputation for hating underhanded house politics. Considering Percy just promised to actively sabotage Ravenclaws chances at gaining the house cup, he was worried the badger had somehow known. Hufflepuffs had an awfully adept talent for digging out secrets and anything hidden, so long as they had the time or cared.

"So, Percy, how is it going mate? You good? Are you feeling great?" Gabriel prompted.

Percy tried not to point his wand at the older boy who suddenly crowded his personal space. The older boy was looking him over from head to toe like a healer giving a medical. Percy frowned but stiffly confirmed he felt rather well. Gabriel smiled brightly which only increased Percy's unease. As he suspected, the older Badger then dropped his smile and his eye darkened protectively.

"I'll get straight into it. Cedric's concerned over some 'little Ronnie' and won't settle down long enough for anyone to cool his wits. Now, I know the boy's got history with those demon pests of yours, but what's the deal with this 'little Ronnie'? Why's he triggering my badger?"

Percy couldn't help but melt a little with fond amusement at hearing Cedric was concerned for Ron. Perhaps he'd shown his fondness a little too blatantly as Gabriel suddenly backed off with a considering stare.

"So, he's really important to Cedric then?" the older prefect muttered.

Percy sighs relieved this wasn't about House politics and more about Cedric being sweet and considerate.

"You can tell Cedric Ron's perfectly fine, besides, he and his friends are grounded for a week. If its not enough to settle him, he's welcomed to join us for dinner tomorrow. I'm sure Ron would be eager to catch up with his favourite neighbour."

Gabriel hummed but made no verbal agreement to pass on the message. Percy let out another sigh, knowing the older boy wanted a different show of reassurance.

"You can also tell Cedric that the twins will be busy with a side project of mine for the rest of the year. I've also established a ban from pranking for a month, a promise they've sworn to abide to."

Gabriel finally relaxed looking pleased by expressing it with a sharp whistle.

"Percy Weasley, putting a lock down on the demon twins? Damn, Snape totally did a number on you Gryffindors today," he mused.

Percy scowled at the reminder and the action projected his opinion easily. Gabriel gave another considering hum and Percy wondered what else the badger had to discuss. Seeming to have made a decision, Gabriel rolled his eyes and muttered a resigned 'ugh, I hate politics' before elaborating.

"I'll talk to the higher ups for my house, see if they can get a feel for Wilkins and Daniels plays. They might be willing to play neutral but in the face of the bloodbath you seem to be hinting at, my Badgers might get caught up in the chaos. I'm not making any promises, but I got a lot of rules to put in place before Monday. If you can keep your lions in line until then, we should be golden."

"You've got until Wednesday. The upper years are still mad and looking to assign blame and I'm not sure what Wilkins and Daniel might preach to calm them down. Unless I settle with the rest of my house peers, we're looking at a four-day cooling period to deviate the lines drawn."

Gabriel winced looking rather sympathetic after hearing Percy admit to the strife fostering between himself and the upper Gryffindor years. The older boy then placed a comforting arm around Percy's shoulder, reminding him of the day they'd first met.

"Ease up alright, Perce. You know this isn't a race, tomorrows always going to come but if you don't live for today, you'll be upset you missed it. Tomorrow will always come; it's today you'll never see again."

Percy nodded, straightening his stance from the slight slump it had slipped into.

"You're right. Thank you, Gabe," he smiled.

Gabriel waved it off and ignored the knowing look to Percy's eyes.

"Yeah well, I owed Charlie one and the bloody berk knew just how to trap me. Besides, we got Diggory fretting more than enough for both of us about this mess."

Percy smirked and Gabriel cleared his throat before slouching and returning to his usual self.

"Now can we please finish up Patrol? This is way pass the time I wanted to sleep tonight."

~(*)\(*)/(*)~

Down in the Dungeons, Marcus Flint sketched out his newest quidditch play with a thoughtful hum. He doubted he'll be adding any new players to the team and from what he's spied of the Gryffindors, Wood doesn't have much of a selection this year either. Still, its best to always have a contingency play.

"You're late," he absently scoffed, never once looking up from his parchment.

Gemma hummed looking incredibly pleased with herself which was enough to have him uneasy. The girl might be a great vice to his position but her stubborn ambition never failed to bring him trouble. He also had a feeling that whatever had her grinning like a loon had something to do with Percy Weasley. She always got like this after having a bit of fun with the lion.

"Oh, hush you. Weasley made an appearance tonight, I settled a guard for Davis. She'll have the pests on her six till she can hold her own. Weasley promise and all."

Marcus looked up at that trying not to smirk at the obvious satisfaction in her tone. She's got a good handle on dealing with Percy and he knew she'd walk away with what he wanted. Then she wandered over to his parchment looking far too casual for him not to be suspicious. She took his quill and scribbled in a quick play that he'd not even considered. It was a good strategy, one he bet Wood wouldn't even see coming.

"What did you do?" he growled, suspecting the rise of trouble in the horizon.

Gemma gave him a childish grin with the slightest bit of apology to it.

"I may have used your name as a cover to deal with a personal matter of interest."

"Damnit Farley!" he snarls after she tells him of the exchange.

She shrugs in his face, apologetic for the lack of warning but not the act itself.

"The Ravens value their independence far too much to fall behind Hillard & Summer's. Those two barely even have a handle over their house as a whole! Clearwater is still too new to have dredged up enough of a standing. Do you have any idea the position you've put me in? Corvus is going to kill me for this."

Gemma, the bloody chit, just shrugged again.

"The Lions are out for blood, Flint. Weasley's got two more years at Hogwarts and you know he's going to climb the ladder to Head boy the year we graduate . If we don't give a show now, we'll be losing rank to the Puffs. We're friendly, but we're not secure. The Weasley's are changing the board and Snape's loss of power and influence is most likely just the beginning. If we want to stay at the top, we're going to need to battle for it now."

The infuriating thing is she wasn't wrong. If Charlie Weasley hadn't ditched to chase dragons, this year would've already seen them floundering around the bottom of the Hogwarts ranks. While rather neutral towards them, there was no way they'd have as much of a pull as they did now. Percy Weasley's favour could only carry them so far. The upper years still had a grudge against the Eldest two Weasley's, but Percy was making good headway with fifth year and below.

"I hope you understand what you've put into motion Farley," he eventually sighed, and the girl smirked.

"Come on Flint, have I ever let you down?"

He glared at her and she backed off.

"Don't push it. I'll deal with Corvus, but you need to get Griffin's up to date. Can't believe you're using the Lions to clear the Ravens over a stupid crush on Weasley."

Gemma smirked, the cunning in her eyes bright.

"Clearwater should up her game. If she thinks playing the bashful-girl-next-door is going to get her anywhere, she's got another thing coming. Percy's too innocent to see it for anything other than a bit of kindness."

Marcus snorted and muttered his response with a smirk of his own.

"Yeah, yeah. At least you chose a redeemable blood traitor to chase after. Your mum can't be too mad once she meets him."

Gemma giggles looking incredibly pleased.

"I know right!"

Merlin help Percy Weasley get a clue or else the bloody girl was going to eat him alive. Marcus sighed and grabbed a new bit of parchment to puzzle out his new problem. Some nights he really hated his position of influence in his house. On his worst, he always regretted endorsing Gemma as she tended to bring him the worst kind of headaches.

He suddenly imagined their seventh year with Gemma as Head girl and Percy as Head boy.

The chills up his arms brought him both terror and eager anticipation.

Merlin it was going to be beautiful.

---

In case you need it :)

Mentioned Hogwarts Prefects [Active]:

Arnold Daniels & Marsha Wilkins: 7th year Gryffindor Prefect

Lewis Bishop & Sarah Marshall: 6th year Gryffindor Prefect

Amanda Shrew & Percy Weasley: 5th year Gryffindor Prefect

Gabriel Truman: 6th year Hufflepuff Prefect

Melisa Dubois: 5th year Hufflepuff Prefect

Robert Hillard & Felicia Summers: 7th year Ravenclaw Prefect

Penelope Clearwater: 5th year Ravenclaw Prefect

Frank Griffins & Gemma Farley: 5th year Slytherin Prefect

Corvus: 7th year Slytherin Prefect