Hi :)
It's another Non Progressive/Optional chapter.
I was honestly just going to time jump to when Ron's all healed and move on to the Quidditch match, but after reading everyone's response, it didn't feel right. Essentially, this chapter's purpose is to showcase the ripple effects of what Changes have been made and it's influence on everybody.
I know I've been hyping the Weasley's up quite a bit, but in my personal opinion, If Dumbledore didn't have the Weasley's or Marauders in his corner, the War probs would have lasted longer.
I expect there will be a lot of mixed reactions to this chapter, but eh, you feel what you feel.
*CHAPTER WARNINGS: EXCESSIVE POLITICAL TALKS AND INTRODCUED OCs*
Enjoy your read x
Chapter: How much blood would you bleed?
Percy considered himself, at his core, to be a pacifist.
He did not relish or immediately fall into a violent rage like Charlie. Nor did he seek vengeance and blood as the twins tended to prefer. He most certainly wasn't like Ginny, who was also showing signs of having a mixture of both temperaments.
The point is, Percy was not prone to violent outbursts or bloodthirsty vengeance.
But…. That is not to say, he isn't capable of it.
Percy could hear Dumbledore and McGonagall's stern warnings for the twins to control themselves. He could vaguely hear Snape adding his own unwanted comments about his younger brothers' behaviour. Professor Sprout and Flitwick were tittering about in their own ways, trying to calm and reassure the twins, but their attempts were useless.
Dumbledore's office was vibrating from the angry magic that surged around the room. The flames in the fireplace were sparking and swaying, threatening to devour anything that came close. Percy had always thought of Fred and George's magic as explosive, like a muggle bomb he'd read about. The kind that could destroy entire cities and leave nothing but waste in it's wake. He imagined George's magic to be the warning surge of pure power. An invisible wave of silence that would uproot trees and blow down buildings followed by Fred's devouring heat of vengeance that would turn everything in its way to dust and ash.
"Mr Weasley!"
Percy blinked out of his stupor at the call of his name and found the Professors watching him with concern.
"My apologies Professors, my thoughts seemed to have taken me elsewhere. What is it you were saying?"
The twins seemed to have settled on their own, and Percy wondered how long he'd been lost to his thoughts. Yet, it was Dumbledore's speculative stare that truly caught his attention.
"Tonight, has been eventful enough, I should think. I suggest we all should rest and meet again tomorrow," the Headmaster says with a careful tone.
Percy usually wouldn't hesitate to consider the suggestions of an authority figure, especially Albus Dumbledore. However, he was not fully in control of himself. He had felt numb and disconnected from his body since McGonagall arrived with her terrible, horrible, news.
"Percy."
The quiet but steel forced call of his name snapped him out of his trance once more. A turn to his left showed it had been Fred to call for him. Percy then felt something tight and heated clench around his right hand. A shift of his head revealed it to be George. Percy blinked and tilted his head curiously at his little brothers' actions.
"Let's go see Ronnie, Perce."
Percy nods in agreement to George's stern suggestion. He vaguely hears Fred excusing him to the Professors and is somewhat aware that Professor McGonagall was having strong words with George. But nothing was truly registering, not really.
Not yet.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
The walk to the infirmary was very much a dream for Percy. All he could recall was the clacking of his footsteps and the ringing in his ears. He knew McGonagall and the twins were with him, as George's tight grip on his wrist never once loosened. Professor McGonagall was discussing something with Fred. It seemed rather important, but not important enough for Percy to pay it any mind.
Nothing, other than George's anchoring grip, felt real.
Not until they reached the infirmary.
"Percy…. You with me, mate?" Oliver greets.
Percy blinks and gives a slow nod in response. Although the quidditch captain smiles, Percy knows it's a brittle act. Oliver was a terrible actor, but his attempts were usually amusing to witness. For some reason, he couldn't feel anything other than blank numbness. Oliver shifts on his feet, but it's enough to give Percy a glimpse of a limp form on the bed behind him.
Everything around Percy disappears as his entire focus tunnels towards the prone figure in the bed.
The ringing in his ears is louder than ever and the thump of his footsteps match the pounding of his chest. Slowly, Percy lets his eyes drift from the foot of the figure to the head. As he soaks in the sight of the unconscious child, his mind is overwhelmed by the many deductions it spots. Percy inhales a shaky breath and finally looks at the closed eyed face of the boy in the bed.
He feels the tremble in his fingers as he reaches for the boy. He doesn't notice he'd stopped breathing until he places his palm over the left side of the child's chest.
*Ba dump*
*Ba dump*
Percy feels his entire body slump with the weight of his relief. He would have fallen to the ground if not for George and Oliver's quick support. Fred is yelling at Madame Pomfrey and McGonagall, sounding rather murderous.
But, with Ron's slow beating heart under his palm, Percy feels himself returning.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
"Fredrick."
Everyone stiffens at the rather cold calling, all except the twins. Oliver watches as Fred immediately backs down from his aggressive stand off with McGonagall. He's relieved to hear his best friend is a little more himself compared to when he first entered the room. Yet, it doesn't stop the worry that continues to fester in his gut. Oliver knows this is only temporary and Percy was barely keeping it together.
"Mind your manners when addressing a Professor," the older Weasley scolds.
Oliver grins a little at the shiver one of the nosy patients from another cot gives. The adrenalin, chaos craving psycho in him is salivating with glee for the oncoming storm Percy will release. He turns his observing stare towards Madame Pomfrey and McGonagall. The two women look uneasy, and he must swallow the giggle that near passed his lips. He wonders what unnerves them more, the twins tame and immediate deference to Percy's stern word or the spine-chilling tingle that drips down their backs with every sound he makes?
This is the side of Percy no one really thought existed.
When it came to the Weasley brothers, Hogwarts had seemingly defined the brothers under certain roles. Bill had been the cool, popular, and well-loved older brother during his years. Charlie, despite his impulsive temperament, had been heralded the second coming of Godric Gryffindor for a bit. Even the twins, despite their sometimes pest like behaviour and mischief, were rather liked by the students of Hogwarts.
But Percy was different.
Hogwarts, for some barmy reason, considered the respectable and bookish boy to be boring. While they'd come to respect him for his hard-earned deeds and promises, no one truly considered him intimidating. Not like they did the rest of his brothers.
Oliver smirked as his magic squirmed restlessly under the cold chilling pressure Percy's magic silently enforced. With the Weasley brothers' precious 'little Ronnie' now in attendance, Hogwarts will need to be prepared. Oliver very much doubted the world was ready for the wrath of the Weasley brothers. Especially as this would be considered the second-strike Hogwarts' students have made against them.
Percy and the twins will most certainly ensure a third strike will never happen.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Severus Snape was in a less than pleasant mood, which was hardly any different from his usual mood in truth. The fundamental difference about his current displeasure, is the coiling twist of unease his gut continued to flutter with. Severus was a man who'd experienced much tragedy, darkness, and regrets in his lifetime. He had long ago realised Lady Luck had cursed him while Life had abandoned him to the arms of Tragedy and Sin.
He is a being cursed to slum and wallow with those abandoned into the arms of Darkness and Regret.
Already, Severus could hear the whispered gossip of the ghosts and portraits about the castle. Hogwarts seemed to be buzzing, somewhat restlessly, due to the events of the evening. But it was the stifling silence that will follow, once the truth of the nights events settled, that he dreaded. Severus dreaded the moment the rest of Hogwarts understood what wrath they'd evoked by harming a hair on Ronald Weasley's head.
Not even Albus Dumbledore could properly hide his unease as the Weasley brother's reacted to the news of their youngest brother's condition. Fully grown adults should not feel this much wary uncertainty from a few children's upset, but these children were Weasleys. They were the spawns of Molly Prewitt and Arthur Weasley, who had been terrors of their own right according to those who shared their years in Hogwarts.
The Weasleys were a family Dumbledore determinedly ensured witnessed his good graces.
Severus hadn't thought much of the gaggle of red heads who, for all appearances, seemed idealistic and far too opiniated despite their lack of power and money. But he remembered the warning Dumbledore had given him when he'd given him his gracious 'protection'.
'The Weasleys are far more important than you think, my boy.'
Oddly, the memory of Dumbledore's ominous words caused a cold shiver to race down his spine, like a rat scurrying down a pipe drain. It only served in fuelling his determination to gather his snakes and ensure they had no hand in the youngest Weasley's unfortunate demise.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
A group of panicked individuals hastily met in secret coverage. Their frantic whispers growing louder with every aggressive hiss.
"Do you have any idea what you have done!?" One snarled, their face twisted with hysterical disbelief and ever-growing terror.
"It was no idea of ours!" Another frantically denied, their words dripping with plea.
"It's not like we hurt him too bad," a third voice insisted, trying to sound unbothered by their fellow's hysteria.
They were met with strangled laughter from One, before being shoved threateningly against a wall, held under a terror crazed glare.
"Did you learn NOTHING from what was said about Bill Weasley's retaliation when something similar had happened to Charlie Weasley in his first year!?"
The third whimpered as they were being strangled by this point, their feet no longer able to reach the castle floor. Another let out a weak trembling scoff but continued to speak nothing but desperate denial.
"Most likely nothing but exaggerated rumours I bet! Come on, it's not like we abandoned the kid in the forbidden forest. He'll be fine after a bit of rest. Relax, if we are found out we'll be able to handle a few hell pranks by the twins for a few days."
One dropped the Third and turned to Another with a pitiful shake of their head.
"You are a fool. You truly have no idea what you have brought upon yourselves."
Another and the Third watched One with uncertainty. They did not understand what their actions had brought upon them, but One did. Bill Weasley might have been popular during his time, but he had been the first ripple of change among the students of Hogwarts.
Bill Weasley, a former Head boy for Hogwarts, had issued a warning in his last year. One could still recall the way their house prefects had returned looking shaken and pensive. It had been the year the Weasley twins had come to Hogwarts, wreaking chaos and madness all about the castle with their pranks and mischief.
"Brought upon ourselves? Maybe it's their fault for always messing with everything and everybody and always getting away with it!" the Third sneered haughtily.
One shook his head, their stare full of pity.
Regardless, there was nothing they could do, as what was done had been done.
All they could do was anxiously wait for the consequences.
One could only hope it was merciful.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Despite the late hour, the Slytherin Prefects had all been summoned out of their beds for a private meeting. For Slytherins, a meeting so late could mean many various things and was rather common. Theirs was a house full of ambitious goals that relied heavily on connections and power. So late night meetings were not unusual for anyone in the Slytherin House.
One by one, the Slytherin prefects settled into their seats, until finally, Corvus Drake entered with a sullen Marcus Flint trailing after him. A few glances were shared, conveying silent words as Marcus Flint being present for a Prefect meeting told them plenty about the subject matter to be discussed.
No one spoke as Corvus Drake took his seat at the head of the table while Marcus remained standing to his left, silent as a shadow until he would be called upon.
"Why the late hour, Drake?" Rowan Goldhorn drawled as he lazily slouched in his seat.
"Snape paid me a visit, is why," The seventh year pensively shared.
At the mention of their House Head, several faces twisted with disgust and a few hissed insults were spat. Their half-blood House Head was not a welcome associate in the eyes of many snakes. Not since he'd sought safety with Dumbledore after the war rather than his own nest mates. Majority of the house chose to be indifferent to his position, but since Halloween, many still felt the sharp pang of abandonment his actions proved. Severus Snape may be their Head of House, but in the eyes of the snakes, it was a title without power as none trusted the Half-blood with their safety. Not when he had so easily abandoned them to chase after Dumbledore while they'd been condemned to the dungeons with a troll.
"And what did the half-blood shit have to say that could have been oh so important," Meredith Rook sneered with her glossed lips curled and talon like nails tapping threateningly.
Corvus pressed the tips of his fingers together, settling into a proper position to deliver his news.
"Ronald Weasley was admitted to the infirmary with a concussion after being ambushed and hidden."
Gemma Farley's reaction was the most vivid, with her sharp gasp and jolting twitch, as she turned to look at Marcus. Corvus allowed his gaze to move along his gathered snakes with a soul deep examination. Despite knowing the exact whereabouts of his snakes for the past few weeks, Corvus needed to be sure of their innocence. Especially if they were going to venture any further with this change in the political standing of the Hogwarts Houses.
"Tch, and I suppose the Half-blood waste sought to ensure we had no hand in the deed," Ashley Evergreen sneered.
When Corvus said nothing but continued to eye his fellow prefects with a piercing stare, many faces twisted with insult.
"Be sensible, Drake, what would any of us have to gain from messing with the little Weasel," Frank Griffins protested.
Corvus leaned back in his seat, noting how his underclassman eyed him with uncertainty. In truth, Corvus never once thought his snakes guilty of whatever had been done to the youngest Weasley. They wouldn't dare, especially after Corvus had made it clear they were to stay out of the way of the Weasley brothers. It helped that some of the older snakes had not forgotten that Ronald Weasley and Harry Potter had made the effort to seek their safety during Halloween's chaos.
Still, it paid to be cautious.
Corvus had not forgotten the blatant show of weakness Percy Weasley revealed for his youngest brother. He kept a careful eye on the red-haired brothers since then and knew the youngest Weasel was incredibly treasured by his siblings. Based on their actions alone, Corvus could tell the brothers would do anything for the sake of their youngest brother. It was both curious but incredibly unnerving how easily they flaunted to the world their weakness without shame.
"Nothing, we would gain nothing from messing with Ronald Weasley, aside from the wrath of his brothers."
Perhaps it was the ominous ring of warning his words sang with? Or maybe his pensive expression that showed how calculative he was being in the moment? Regardless, all the gathered prefects stayed silent and watched the Seventh Prefect contemplate whatever musings flitted through his mind.
"Whoever is responsible for the act must have been a fool or arrogantly sure they had nothing to fear," he absently mused with a mocking smirk.
Corvus straightened in his seat and ensured all eyes were on him as he next spoke.
"Thanks to the efforts of Flint and Farley, we've a minor but potentially profitable in with Percy Weasley. The board is changing and I'm certain, by the end of this year the balance among the Hogwarts Houses will have shifted. New blood is coming and with them, great potential and opportunity."
Meredith scoffed, as she tapped her nails against the table wood looking disgruntled.
"And what use would that be to us? Hogwarts is only a temporary playground and House Politics is nothing in the face of the real world," she mocked.
They all shared good-hearted chuckles at her comment but calmed when Corvus smiled with amusement.
"Oh, but haven't you realized it yet? Have none of you realized the game that's been set up since Bill Weasley's reign as Head Boy?"
A few confused glances were shared, but Corvus's amusement grew the longer it took for his fellow snakes to puzzle out the meaning of his words.
"The Dark Lord's reign brought House Slytherin plenty of power, but the cost had been scrutiny and limits for the families not directly within his close circle. But with the Dark Lord's defeat, Albus Dumbledore's reign returned and with it his influence. Our standings and political power over the years has been dwindling slowly but surely since. Our traditions and valued beliefs, all of it squandered in favour of Mudblood worships," Corvus sneered with various agreeing mumbles to his words.
"Percy Weasley may be the quiet, diligent example of textbook obedience, but not once have his demon twins suffered their dues for their rule breaking. Before him, Charlie Weasley had run wild without care stirring aggression among students till all out-blood feuds had been declared between families."
Corvus savoured the dawning realization that appeared on his fellow prefects faces. One by one they became aware of the new game that had been proposed and set in the making since Bill Weasley's reign as Head Boy.
"We all grow up eventually….but Hogwarts is no mere playground, not anymore."
Rowan laughs, and it's tinged with excitement as he realizes the opportunity for what it was.
"Perhaps…. Or perhaps you are giving the Weasley's brothers far more credit than they deserve," Ashley idly shrugged.
Corvus knew the sixth-year prefect was only trying to be the voice of caution. However, he knew beyond doubt that he was right.
"Tch, regardless of your beliefs you can not ignore the opportunity for what it is," Frank added.
But it is Rowan who steers them back on topic.
"So, what now? Majority of us will be out of Hogwarts by the time Percy Weasley achieves Head boy, if all goes to his plans. It's a gamble to invest so much on a possible what if."
"Then we split our investments evenly among the brothers. There's six of them, and surely one of them is bound to be worth it," Ashley proposes.
"Not entirely unreasonable. I could do worse than a Curse breaker or Dragon tamer," Meredith muses.
"I'd consider other avenues if Marriage is your only strategy, Rook," Frank counters with a scoff.
Meredith turns to him with fluttering lashes and a simpering pout.
"Jealous, Griffins?"
"Hardly. Only suggesting, as Charlie Weasley was rumoured to have other interest than that of your type."
Meredith soured as Frank smirked back at her. The others laughed at the obvious challenge thrown for the dragon tamer. Irritated by their laughter, Meredith turned to the oddly subdued Gemma who had not said a word since the start of their meeting. She wondered if the younger girl was worrying over her chances with Percy Weasley.
"Awfully quiet there, Farley. Much on your mind?" Rowan prompts with a drawl.
All eyes turn to the subdued girl who stares back at them considerably. They all know what the most sensible route would be, the one with the highest probability of success. From the tell-tale shift of Corvus's posture, it was most likely the reason he summoned them all and brought Marcus with him.
Gemma visibly swallows under the weight of everyone's stare, feeling the expectant pressure they impress on her. Their eyes taunting her like poised snakes ready to strike at their prey. For a brief second, she curses her past self for impulsively setting all this chaos in motion due to jealously. She'd underestimated the Weasley's and overestimated her own worth. Now, she was trapped, and it spoke plenty of what little say she had in her Houses' future.
When she met Corvus's expectant stare, Farley understood that this was his real punishment for her selfish ambition; for daring to use her House as a bartering chip without his permission.
"No, not much. I'm aware of my choices," she coldly responds looking outwardly disinterested in the discussion.
The others all smirk and share pleased grins, but Corvus is the one speaks.
"Excellent. Then we're all in agreement."
Corvus leans forward, his eyes glinting with fiery anticipation for the future he created in his mind for his and those who shared his ambitions.
"Starting tonight, House Slytherin will officially advocate for Percy Weasley's ascension to Head boy. Griffins and Evergreen, I expect you to keep the hatchlings in line. The transition must be slow and subtle so allow Malfoy the occasional tantrum but otherwise keep the damage to a minimum. Rook and Goldhorn, I want your ears trained to the ground, your eyes aware and the rest of our snakes kept in line. Unless one becomes particularly out of hand, I'm trusting you both to deal with it."
Corvus then looks to Gemma and finally addresses the silent Marcus at his side.
"Flint and Farley will meet with me to discuss our actions moving forward. In saying that, I expect the both of you to come clean on everything you know and have observed about the Weasley brothers. Don't dare to leave a single detail out about your interactions and dealings with the lot."
Gemma and Marcus can hear the threat for what it was and gave short nods of obedience.
"And what of the likes of the Weasels beyond our reach? Their outliers and we know they would hardly stand idle if a single whisper of our changing tides reach their ears."
Corvus laughs because he knows something the others don't.
"Trust me…." He snickers before scratching at his chin with a smirk.
"With the current board set as it is, I doubt the brothers weren't expecting something along these lines. In fact,… I'm willing to bet this is exactly what Bill Weasley intended all those years ago when he'd been appointed head boy."
As Farley and Flint began to share every detail of their dealings and impressions on the Weasley brothers, Corvus folded his arms with a thoughtful hum.
If the Weasley Brothers wanted to challenge the current Wizard Families standing in power, he would be a fool not to capitalize on the opportunity. Not when purebloods such as Nott and Malfoy's likes weren't suffering as greatly as the minor pureblood families had due to the Dark Lord's reigns. Perhaps it was time those who'd grown far too greedy with their power and placement since the Dark Lord's rule were reminded of the danger hatchlings who survived beyond their Slytherin nest posed.
Corvus was in his final year at Hogwarts, come next year the world beyond the nest was his to explore.
It wouldn't hurt to take a bit of an overseas wander to a few countries.
Who knows what… coincidental meetings he'd happen upon.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Gryffindor tower was eerily silent, with not a single stir in motion. Percy sat alone in the dark of the common room and stared deep into the roaring flames of the fireplace. So much had happened today and he could feel his exhaustion weighing him down. Oliver had done his best to persuade him to rest, but his friend had used much of his energy persuading him out of the infirmary. Percy thought back to the final events in the infirmary before he'd agreed to leave.
"Percy. Come on, mate, let's head back to the tower and get a bit of rest. You can come back tomorrow morning and stay the day," Oliver soothed.
Fred & George were whispering harshly between themselves by the foot of Ron's bed. He knew they were plotting a deadly sort of mischief, but Percy couldn't bring himself to care. He ignored his brothers plotting in favour of counting the beats of Ron's heart beneath his palm.
"Percy…." Oliver softly repeated.
McGonagall and Madame Pomfrey were having their own hushed argument a few ways away. The Weasley's were at least afforded their privacy by a silencing spell that let no one overhear any conversation had around Ron's bed.
Which is when it happened.
The infirmary doors open and in burst Granger and Potter, the two first years looking winded but frantic. Percy felt his interest spike as he was reminded that Ron considered the two to be his friends. Percy watched intently as Potter and Granger scanned the room and paid extra attention to their reactions upon seeing Ron.
"RON!" they shout before pushing their way towards Ron's side.
Although Percy doesn't move, he feels the beginnings of a scheme come to life in his mind at what he sees. In an, slightly unexpected turn of events, its Granger who bursts into a violent outrage. It's enough to have Fred & George watching her keenly, their own expressions contemplative. The muggle born is frantic with her muttered threats of retaliation and vengeance, enough for Percy to think it slightly adorable.
He is reminded of Ginny for a few seconds, only slightly, as his baby sister was more inclined to vicious blood shed for her own wants rather than 'justice'.
But it's Potter who intrigues him most.
Unlike Granger, who is muttering to herself rambles he couldn't be bothered to pay attention to, Potter is deathly silent. The boy-who-lived stares at his brother with unreadable green eyes. Its not until Potter brushes his hand lightly against Ron's that Percy feels it. The drop in the room is chilling for anyone sensitive enough to feel it. Then there's the crackling of something like lighting that buzzes in his ear. It builds and builds until Percy hears glass shattering.
It's then that Professor McGonagall and Madame Pomfrey appear, their faces worried.
"What on earth happened? This is an Infirmary!" Madame Pomfrey scolds.
But Percy speaks before anyone else could and his words garners plenty of surprise.
"Forgive me Madame Pomfrey, my magic is still unsettled from the events of the day," he some what lies.
"Yes, well please control yourself. I understand your upset but there are other patients in need of healing, Mr Weasley."
McGonagall realizes that Potter and Granger are present and is held under another round of aggressive interrogation by Granger. Eventually she's had enough of the persistent interrogation she's been held under, especially as the twins decide to help Granger along with her questioning.
"That is enough! All of you will obediently return to your dorms until tomorrow. Rest assured, Miss Granger and Messer's Weasley, the culprit behind this matter will be found in due time. Until then you will be of greater help to young Mr Weasley by aiding in his recovery allowing himself and yours rest!" McGonagall near scolded.
Granger looks beyond dissatisfied and the Twins scoff but wisely don't object, not when Percy clears his throat.
"Of course, Professor. We'll return tomorrow after we rest," Percy repeats.
After a few more grumbles, and a suspicious glance cast his way by the feline Professor, the lot of them ready to leave. Percy lingers along with Potter who has yet to say a word as he stares at Ron's still form.
"Come with me…" Percy whispers to the boy.
Potter turns to him with his green-eyed stare, blinks, but quietly follows Percy's leading tug. Oliver opts to linger by the Twins and Granger, who seemed to have formed some sort of agreement. It most certainly spells trouble, but Percy can't be bothered to care. Let the twins do as they please, so long as they remember to hide whatever possible massacre might see them condemned.
This time round, Percy has plans of his own and would have no time to cover for them as he usually would.
No, this was far too personal to be excused.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
"Are you okay?"
Harry looks up at the unexpected question, blinking confusingly at Percy.
"Am I what?" he quietly checks.
Percy huffs out a chuckle, but it has no real humour behind it.
"Back in the infirmary, you'd seemed out of it."
Harry isn't sure what to say to that. Not when he can't make sense of what it is he is feeling. It's shock, he knows that much, but there is something else building in the pit of his belly and spreading. He can feel the buzzing bubble of it's heat crawl closer and closer to his chest and up his neck. He can't make sense of it and so he's confused.
"I-I…. Is he… is he going to be, okay?" Harry manages to ask.
Percy hums, considering the question for a few seconds long before finding his words.
"Eventually, Ron's got a strong heart and is stubborn to the core. He wouldn't be kept down for long if he could help it."
Percy's words soothe the worry Harry could feel creeping up his spine, but it doesn't chase away the hot buzzing bubble in his blood.
"Do… Do you know who did it? Dean said Ron was alone when they found him."
Harry's stops when Percy does, having not realized they'd fallen behind the others until then. He looks up at the older boy and finds himself under a blue-eyed stare. They should remind him of Ron's, but they don't. Unlike Ron, whose eyes were always lit up with easy grins and teasing, Percy's eyes are piercing and cold. Harry thinks they are more like ice chips with pointed peaks that could easily spear whoever was trapped under their stare.
Harry shivers but doesn't back away or wither under Percy's calculating stare.
It's enough to cause Percy to smile, a smile that Harry finds to be different from any he's seen the boy give before.
"No, but what will you do once I find them?"
Percy is acting strangely, but Harry is too caught up in the feeling in his blood and chest, along with the image of Ron unconscious in the infirmary. He recalls the way Dean described finding him. The reminder causes the bubbling buzz in his blood to fizzle faster. Harry doesn't notice the drop in temperature or the buzzing crackle in the air, too caught up in his thoughts, but Percy does.
It's enough to make the older boy grin.
"Would you like to help me, Harry?" Percy offers.
Without hesitation, Harry agrees. He wants to know who'd dared to do something so horrible to his friend. Above all else, Harry wants them to pay.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
With the reflected flames dancing in the lens of his glasses, Percy considers the chess board before him. The pieces still positioned where he and Ron had left off in their last chess match. He'd thought something had been strange about his younger brother's game play. Now, with what has happened, he knows what it had been.
"Oh Ronald…" Percy quietly sighs.
It hadn't made sense that the game had ended in a tie.
But now, Percy understood the reason behind Ron's strange moves and play. Percy rearranged his brother's pieces, placing them where they should belong. Following that, he did the same for his own pieces. He considered the board again and found himself torn between feeling furious with his youngest brother or extremely loved.
"You ridiculous little brother," Percy sighed.
Percy pinched at the bridge of his nose, allowing himself a moment of discontent, before inhaling deeply and getting to work. To anyone who might have come across him that night, they would have wondered at Percy Weasley playing chess alone with two chess boards in front of him. But no one did, and Gryffindor Tower remained eerily silent, only disturbed by the clacking shift of chess pieces across the board.
After a moment of contemplation, Percy took two of his brother's chess pieces and considered them with a dark glower. He darted his eyes between the two chess boards before making his decision. One, he placed on the left board game, replacing a piece he removed. The last, he placed closer to the Queen of the right board game.
After committing every pieces place on the boards to memory, Percy packed the game away with a swish of his wand, next he drafted two letters.
By the time morning arrived, Percy had returned to his brothers side while Hogwarts woke to the news that someone had put Ronald Weasley in the infirmary.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
In the Great Hall, all of Hogwarts teaching staff were present for a sudden faculty meeting. The tension in the room sharp and biting. Just as the students had divided among themselves, the professors also allied against one another due to differing views and opinions. The rivalry between Slytherins and Gryffindors may have been infamous, but the Hogwarts of today was driven by the house pride fostered among the students and professors since the founders themselves. The professors were waiting for the House heads and Dumbledore's arrival in silence until one decided to break it.
"Dirty tactic, don't you think? Targeting the little one, tch, always said the birdhouse was full of bullies," One professor muttered to his neighbour. The polished lion head pinned to his robe exposed his loyalties.
The sharp-eyed glares he garnered came from a cluster of stiff seated professors dressed in various shades of blue and bronze robes said plenty. The tension among them cackled angrily and if they were as impulsive as their students, wands certainly would have been drawn.
Professor Sybill Trelawney, who rarely ever ventured out of her classroom or living dorms, was visibly affected by the tension in the room. The woman did not do well in aggressive and volatile atmospheres, especially since her divorce. If not required, she rarely ever interacted with the other professors as none were particularly amicable towards her. Which is why she could be excused for her ignorance on Hogwarts current cold war among the houses.
"I-I'm sorry, but… did something happen?" she stammered.
She blinked owlishly behind her wide circular lens at her colleges in confusion. The same professor who'd spoken gave a mocking laugh and pointed derisively at her while addressing the blue robed professors.
"Hah! Would you look at that? A bird who doesn't know something. Then again what else is new when it comes to Trelawney," he mocked.
Sybill slouched deeper into her seat as one of the blue robed professors hissed back in reply. They glared at both Sybill and the ex-lion.
"Oh, put a cork in it. Trelawney was a toss of the coin for the hat, everybody knows that."
"Well, now we know why that hat didn't put you with the puffs," he muttered back.
Sybill whimpered and slunk under the table. The arguing grew louder and then escalated to standing and finger pointing. Sybill was certain the group was one comment away from reaching for their wands, when they were interrupted by an unexpected blow of a whistle. The group settled down when faced with Rolanda Hooch's sharp glare and irritated scowl.
"Sit down and shut up the whole lot of you," she snapped.
The standing professors reluctantly obeyed, knowing better than to test her patience. Sybill blinked when Aurora Sinistra offered her a hand so she could settle back into her seat again. The astronomy professor was glaring indifferently towards the other professors. Which said plenty on how irritated she must have felt.
"Worse than a squabbling lot of babies, the lot of you are. Where's your professionalism?" Hooch scolded with a put-out sneer.
"Says the puff," someone mumbled only to stiffen when their tongue became stuck to the roof of their mouth.
Sinistra narrowed her eyes while tilting her head regally with disdainful warning.
"If you have nothing of worth to say, mind your tongue or dare to risk it…" the astronomy professor lowly warned.
Sybill nibbled at her bottom lip, uneasy and uncomfortable with her situation. She wished the house elves would've prepared some refreshments or snacks so she could occupy herself. But no, this meeting was unexpected and apparently regarding the treatment of a student, a young one at that. She figured the child must be from Gryffindor if the lion's provoking taunts were to be considered. She cast nervous glances to where her fellow ex-house peers were clustered. If she were right to assume her old house had a hand in the situation…well… No surprises there. House Ravenclaw always had an issue with bullying, but it was usually labelled a minor concern when compared to the rivalry between the snakes and lions.
It makes sense, she thinks, that a bullied lion-cub would be the reason the birds would finally suffer their dues. Especially with McGonagall and Dumbledore in charge. Sybill grumbled under her breath with bitter disgruntlement, her thoughts ranting about favouritism and special treatment. But of course, not a whisper of her inner thoughts passed her tightly pressed lips.
Thankfully, before the tension could rise any higher, Dumbledore and the House heads arrived. Filius looked incredibly upset and his goblin heritage was a little more obvious due to the snarl on his face. Pomona looked equally upset as her Ravenclaw counterpart, which was a great enough sign that this meeting would not end favourably.
Sybill sunk further in her seat and wished she could disappear.
"Ah, I'm glad we could all be present tonight," Dumbledore starts but Rolanda interrupts.
"Not all of us, Quirrell has yet to-"
As if summoned the turban wearing professor stumbled his way into the room. All eyes were drawn to the stumbling mess of a Professor, some scoffing with mockery and others sighing at his clumsy manner.
"S-s-sorry, I-I-I w-w-was b-b-bus-"
"Enough Quirinus, take a seat already so we may start," one professor grunted impatiently, wanting to hurry and return to their living dorms to sleep.
Quirinus Quirrell flushed an embarrassed red and meekly slunk his way to the empty seat next to Sybill. Sybill felt pity for the poor stuttering Professor who'd been having a rather tough time as of late. Not only had he yet to recover from the scare of the Troll on Halloween, but she'd also found the Professor constantly getting caught among many of the Weasley twins hidden traps about the castle. While she personally didn't think the trickster twins intentionally targeted the Professor, he had the unfortunate bad luck of stumbling into their pranks for some odd reason.
"S'alright, dear, nothing much has been said," she quietly reassured through whispers.
Quirinus gave a trembling grin to show his gratitude but stuttered out a whispered response.
"W-w-why t-t-the me-me-meeting? I-If I may in-inquire?"
Sybill didn't need to answer as Dumbledore garnered their attention with a soft rap of his knuckles on the table.
"There is much to discuss tonight…. As I'm sure you are all aware there has been discontent among the students."
Again, there were scattered mutters and quiet grumbles while glares were exchanged. Sybill frowned as she quietly observed her fellow professors reactions. Yes, the political games among the houses was nothing new, but never as intense as this year was proving.
Sybill didn't care much for politics, she kept to herself and her teachings. As grateful as she was for Dumbledore's protection, she was not blind to the fact it was both to keep her safe and monitor her. She may be considered a fraud by many, but she herself knew the power she wielded, so too did Dumbledore. Sybill chewed her lip and watched the Headmaster from beneath her lashes, tuning out as he continued to talk.
She had the gift, but not the interpretation, and not all her prophecy's came in the form of words. Sybill thought back to the vision she'd had the night before the school year began. Three coloured orbs floating in a room full of white, slowly adding colour with every brush they made against the white canvas. The vision itself was still unclear, but Sybill could recall the scribbled image her hands had drawn while in her trance. The scribbled piece showing the bone-weary exhaustion of a bone-weary lion gazing towards the stars.
Dumbledore stared each Professor down, the lack of twinkle in his eyes visible to them all, emphasising the gravity of his words.
"This will not happen again, it must not. Hence, I implore you Professors, be mindful of your students as well as your own actions. I expect any word or information regarding Ronald Weasley's situation to be reported directly to me."
"Tch, must we continue with the farce though, Albus? It's obvious as anything the bloody birds are to blame," One professor scoffed.
"You're inconclusive deduction is evidence enough for why the hat saw you unfit for Ravenclaw," sniffed another.
Their bickering immediately stopped when Flitwick spoke, the half goblin looked incredibly vexed, which was warning enough for everyone to stay clear of invoking his irritation.
"Rest assured, any Ravenclaw involved in young Ronald's situation will be thoroughly punished by my own personal hand."
The silence that followed his words was due to the shock they all felt. Several looked towards Dumbledore for his response or tempering soothing, but the old lion said nothing. It is here everyone understood how seriously the situation was being considered. More than a few Professors straightened in their seats with alarm and interest.
Could Hogwarts' House Politics truly be shifting? Have the Lions rivalry against the Slytherins finally be at peace? We're the Ravenclaws finally suffering their dues after years of inhouse bullying and disharmony?
"Are you suggesting a free for all?" Rolanda dared to ask, her eyes wide with disbelief.
Even Sybill found herself stunned by the declaration. For many years now, the House Heads were always required the Headmaster's approval for any House punishments or discipline. Dumbledore had been excusing and tempering the tides for years, only ever acknowledging the aggression between Slytherin's and Gryffindor's. Flitwick and Pomona did their best to discipline the students they managed to catch in the act, or were brought to their attention, but the disharmony within their houses had festered for too long.
"It has been brought to my attention, that the discord within our four houses is far worse than I initially believed. Hogwarts has become divided within herself and Ronald Weasley's demise is proof we can no longer sit idle."
Those who knew of Severus Snape's troubled school years snuck secret glances towards the man. They wondered what he might be thinking. Sybill herself felt a sudden rush of bitter rage towards Dumbledore for his sudden change of heart. Where was this heartfelt and earnest want to do better when she had been a bullied by her own peers for her gift? Where was this ambiance of change when Hagrid had been expelled, or Severus Snape tormented by McGonagall's precious Marauders?
"So much bias…" she quietly whispered with scorn.
None had heard her but the incredibly silent turban wearing professor at her side.
As the meeting continued, with Professors discussing what precautions and measures they could take to ensure the safety of their students from their peers, a hidden face beneath purple wrappings considered all he heard. Quirrell clenched his fists beneath the table and desperately tried to ignore the searing spike of burning pain from the back of his head.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Dearest Father,
An unfortunate incident has occurred, but rest assured all has proven to be well. I write to you with a request for your blessing to undertake several acts of reproach under our Family's name. I bid you agree to support my endeavours and share little of my methods with Mother, as I worry, she may overwhelm herself with need to help. I have written to Bill, notifying him of my methods and will inform you when I need your service. In addition, I request you send a letter of warning to both Fredrick and George as I am not in the right mind to abolish their blood hungry ambitions. I have also requested Bill do the same but thought it essential you issue another as their anger knows no bounds when they are determined to sate their rage.
I have much to consider in the coming weeks and can only hope I may continue with your blessing.
Give my love to Mother and Ginny,
Your son,
Percival Weasley.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Arthur Weasley hums as he finishes Percy's letter and leans back in his seat with musing thought. Judging from the hour, Percy must have written this long pass curfew, and Arthur suspected his son did not rest. The Weasley family head tapped his finger on the table beneath him with considerable thought. As if timed, another owl arrived with a letter in it's beak. Arthur rose to accept the letter and huffed out an amused laugh at the flourished address his name was written with.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Father,
Undoubtedly, you have received a missive from Percy enlightening you to his intentions. I have already given my approval for his methods and look forward to the results they'll spring. I have also sent a cautioning missive to both Fred and George and have informed Charlie of the situation. If able, please floo call or send a letter to Charlie and warn him not to attempt anything foolish. Remind him we will not be available to bail him out of any temporary holdings he might be confined in until Christmas.
My love to you all,
Bill.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Arthur looked up from his letter when Ginny came running towards him with an eager grin.
"Is that my letter from Ron!?" she excitedly pestered.
"Ah, I'm sorry princess. Percy just sent a letter that said Ron got himself into a bit of a situation and won't be able to write for a bit."
Immediately, both his girls demanded to know what had happened. Arthur did his best to calm his wife as she demanded he explained while Ginny was already searching for the keys. Arthur did his best to hide his affectionate entertainment at the war like frenzy his girls had fallen into. After a bit of consoling and persuasive soothing, he managed to calm both his wife and daughter with reassurance that his sons had everything well handled.
"But he's alright, isn't he! It's nothing serious, right?" Molly demanded as she began to fret.
"Molly dear, our boys have everything handled. Besides, if it were anything serious, we would have gotten word from Albus."
"Oh, very well then if you're certain. Ginny dear, how about you come help me prepare a treat we can send for your brothers. Whatever mischief they've gotten themselves into is enough to drive me frantic. Oh, those brothers of yours know exactly how to drive me mad…." Molly continued to fret and huff as she whipped out her wand.
For once, Ginny did not complain and eagerly set about to help her mother.
Arthur left his girls to their antics and instead settled in his seat to wait. Later that night another letter arrived, and Arthur opened it with a contemplative quirk of his lips.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Dear Molly & Arthur,
Attached is the medical report regarding young Ronald's admission to the infirmary. Rest assured he is recovering well with no long-lasting effects from his experience. I hope you both find comfort in this knowledge. As promised, I will continue to personally inform you of all medical treatments and ailments Ronald might experience while in Hogwarts care.
Sincere Regards,
Madame Poppy Pomfrey.
~(*)\(*)/(*)~
Finishing the letter with a wry smile, that seemed empty of any emotion, Arthur let out a tired sigh.
"Oh Albus…. That's strike one," he quietly mused out loud.
The glint in the Weasley patriarchs eye was disappointment, but if one thought to stare deeper into his gaze, they would see the storm brewing in it's depths.
Mentioned Hogwarts Prefects [Active]:
Frank Griffins: 5th year Slytherin Prefect
Gemma Farley: 5th year Slytherin Prefect
Rowan Goldhorn: 6th year Slytherin Prefect
Ashley Evergreen: 6th year Slytherin Prefect
Corvus Drake: 7th year Slytherin Prefect
Meredith Rook: 7th year Slytherin Prefect