Welcome to my newest creation- "A Semi-Fairytale". This bit features my favorite pairing...Percy Weasley/Marcus Flint. I've always loved this pairing and I thank whoever the first was to even think of it! There's not too much of these out there so why not? Just a forewarning, this is inspired by the classic Cinderella but with several twists. The characters, a lot of them, will be OOC (out-of-character) either completely or partially. You'll see once you begin reading.
Also, Marcus will show up in chapter three and more as the story progresses...so please be patient. And for those who are Ron, Ginny and Molly lovers...uh...there won't be loving from me in this, so if that pisses you off...I'm sorry.
Eventually, there will be scenes of an adult/mature nature in later chapters, so if homosexual relationships irk you...please feel free to leave. *directs you to the imaginary door*
This story is AU (Alternate Universe) and still magical...but not featured at Hogwarts like the books...you know. And I know Percy's middle name isn't Alexander...but I don't particularly care for the former.
A/N and Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter, JKR does! I do own the plot! Any mistakes-grammatical or otherwise are mine! Don't be afraid to point them out...It'll help me!
Chapter One- Not A Fairytale!
(First Person)
Once upon a time in a faraway land, there lied a great kingdom in the heart of England. It was a busy place full of magic and wonder, where many of its inhabitants had their own story to tell. One in particular, described a beautiful girl that lived near the magnificent castle, who longed for the heart of the handsome prince who lived there...and blah blah blah. Honestly, you think one would be tired of hearing the same stories about a classic romance between two people of different classes.
This isn't a fairytale. There are no knights in shining armor, no kisses before the stroke of midnight, no nothing. You may think I'm cynical and cold, but truthfully...I do believe that love exists, but I don't see it in my future. You see, I'm no princess. Hell, I'm not even a girl. I am Percival Alexander Weasley...just call me Percy.
I actually live in a kingdom called Dragonheart, although I reside in the outskirts in a place called Phoenix Hollow. It's a typical, ordinary middle-class area full of working folk and nothing but warm, loving families. Oh, all right...if I said 'nothing but' I'd be lying. Not every family is very close and kind, especially mine.
Unlike most seventeen-year olds, I come from a family of nine-six boys, one girl and two parents. I am the third-eldest. My eldest brothers, Bill and Charlie, still live at home and work in England. After myself comes the twins, Fred and George-more like thorns in my side. They're the pranksters of the family and I'm their unwilling guinea pig, whenever they're stuck with me. That's not too often anymore so I guess that's a blessing. The youngest are Ron and Ginny, two peas in a pod. And I am not using that as a term of endearment. Lastly, is my Mum and Dad...a simple housewife and a Ministry employee. Now you're probably wondering what I meant by 'especially mine'...well...
"PERCY! Mum says get down here! Breakfast is ready!"
Ah, yes...time for another day of near-servitude. After brushing my teeth, I pull on my clothes and head downstairs.
Upon walking into the dining room, I drawl ''You bellowed, little brother?"
"Now Percy, Ron was only doing as I asked. Eat up, you're going into town to run a few errands for me, Ron and Ginny."
I glanced at Ron who smirked into his pumpkin juice.
This is what I do with half of my spare time...do their bidding. Apparently, doing a few things for themselves was too excruciating of a task. Since I have no friends or a life, it's convenient for them. One more thing, they hardly pay me any sort of attention. It's only when I'm ordered to do something, being fussed at or in their direct line of sight when they acknowledge my presence. It's to be expected in a house of multiple children and when you're the black sheep of the household. It's safe to say I've grown used to this treatment, but I can wallow in my own misery later. I need to eat.
In between bites, I gazed across the table-Fred and George were flicking bacon pieces at each other, Bill and Charlie were betting over who'd face off at the next Quidditch World Cup, and Mum was sipping her tea with a delicate hand. Adjacent to her, Dad was reading over the Daily Prophet while Ron stuffed his face and Ginny daintily patted her lips after consuming her meal. It was the same morning routine.
Overall, my dad worked all the time and came home weary, so he stuck to himself. Mum would make sure we were fed, but spent more time trading gossip and socializing with the various ladies in the kingdom. Bill and Charlie also worked with Dad, luckily, they were kinder towards me in their hectic lives. Fred and George will be visiting Lee as they did daily. Ron and Ginny however; the spoiled, shallow, inconsiderate, insert-every-term-here duo most likely...will either lay around, shop or flit about the kingdom with their buddies.
As soon as I took my last bite of eggs, Mum handed me a list...a long one.
"Gather a fresh batch of roses from the florist and those eclairs from the bakery. I'll also need you to run to the market..." the orders went on. ''..and don't forget to pick up the formal attire we had custom-made."
"Mother, why can't Ron or someone help me? If more than one comes along, the errands won't take so long to finish."
Flippantly waving her hand, she replied "Don't be silly. You have a wand, use it. The sooner you leave, the sooner you'll be home."
I sighed "Yes, mother."
(Now in third person)
Turning on his heel, the disgruntled Weasley headed out the front door, down the front steps towards the apparition point. With a 'pop', Percy arrived in town. People were bustling about, talking, shopping, hanging with their pals. Just like any other day.
Peering down at his list, he mused 'Alright, bakery first.'
Several hours later, Percy returned home. As soon as he walked into the door, he was bombarded by his youngest siblings.
''About damn time, Percy. Gimme my gown! I need to try this on." Ginny snatched a box from his right. Ron swiped the eclairs, knocking Percy into the doorknob.
''Ow, Ronald! Watch it!"
"Well, don't stand in front of the door next time!"
"That's not the point...you-"
"Oh hush, Percy. Now go put everything away." his mother ordered.
'Yeah, there will be a bruise there later.' Rubbing his lower back, he did as he was told.
After placing the red roses into one of his mother's crystal vases, he got another order.
''Percy, I need you to tidy up the parlor...Ginny's having guests over to view her new gown.''
"I just got home. Couldn't I rest a bit?" Receiving a glare, he replied "Fine."
Molly smiled and went about her way. Grabbing his wand, he headed to the parlor and began cleaning.
'Percy do this. Percy do that. I can understand Bill and Charlie not helping as much, they work all day like Dad. The twins, yeah right. They'll try to mechanize the stuff as a prank. Ron could easily help and Ginny...oh heaven forbid she lifts a manicured finger. It's magical nailpolish. That shit won't smudge or chip. Give me a break.' he inwardly grumbled as he whisked away the dust from the family photos.
Several loud bursts of laughter were heard outside the parlor door. It was Ginny and her gaggle of harpies-Parvati, Lavender, Padma, Astoria and Penelope.
''Aw hell...here we go.'' Percy whispered as they came in.
''So, I had this dress custom-made in Italy..the fabric is divine."
"Definitely. Cherry red silk compliments your skin and hair." Lavender grinned as Ginny stepped into the middle of the room.
"Percy, get us some tea and cakes."
"They're your guests. Why don't you do it yourself?"
"Please. And risk spilling it all over my new gown? I don't think so."
Scrunching his face, he retorted. "No, you spoiled brat."
"Fine. MUM!"
The matriarch shuffled at her daughter's call. "What's the matter, dear?"
"Percy won't serve us tea. He's not being very polite...and I don't want to take the chance of ruining the dress Daddy worked so hard to pay for."
''Percival, do your sister a favor and go! I've taught you better than that. Honestly..''
The curly-haired Weasley glared at his smirking sister as he passed her, heading to the kitchen. Moments later, he returned with a teapot and tray of cakes, gently setting them down on the mahogany coffee table. As he poured the steaming liquid into each china cup, Ginny admired her reflection in the full-length mirror Molly transfigured for her.
The doorbell rang while the girls chatted.
"No...let me." Percy muttered sarcastically as he left to open the front door. A messenger in navy blue robes stood waiting. "Yes, how may I help you?"
"Hello sir, this is the Weasley residence am I correct?"
Percy nodded.
"I have an invitation sent by the Malfoy family." he handed the wax-sealed parchment with the Malfoy crest stamped on the front.
Bidding the man farewell, Percy opened the message. "-The house of Malfoy gladly extends an invitation to the house of Weasley for their summer solstice gala. The event starts at 8:00 pm, Saturday, the 21st of June 2014. The dressing is formal. The special guests will be the royal family themselves and their closest associates. All members are welcome and thanked in advance for their attendance.-" he stopped outside the parlor as he finished the last sentence.
"Mother..there was a messenger at the door..he delivered this." he handed her the parchment.
A moment later, a wide grin spread across her middle-aged face. "Ginny! Look! We've been invited to the Malfoy summer gala and the prince will be making an appearance!"
The fourteen-year old Weasley squealed "Oohh..perfect! I have the dress but I need to pick the best accessories!"
"Don't worry, dear...we'll go out first thing tomorrow!"
As they continued jumping about like giddy schoolgirls, Percy silently shook his head. 'Oh, great...here we go. I wonder what scheme Mother will cook up this time.'
And there you have it-Chapter one! Hope ya liked it! Don't be afraid to PM for further questions/comments! :D
