Fred tossed in his sleep. The Astronomy exam had ended early in the morning, but he couldn't rest at all for some reason. To make matters worse Trowler woke up at 4 am and wouldn't stop muttering basic Arithmancy principles. Finally giving up, Fred waved his hand and summoned his Blood Grimoire. The bound leather book gently caressed his magic, giving him a feeling of completeness. Even though it had caused him to be injured, it truly was the best birthday present he had ever received. Grabbing his quill from within the pages- smiling slightly as he straightened out the feathers- he reminisced how Hermione had about given him a heart attack when she started casting a rune on it. Perce had gotten George and he both the horned owl quills with never ending ink for their third year; of course, that had been after they had spilt ink all over his summer homework. Last year he had tried using a shield charm on it so it wouldn't break (unlike George's) to no avail. He had been plesently surprised when the rune had worked. Now he would have it forever.

Tuning to the Arma Tur'kor, he started reducing a node. Repeated attempts of trying the shield spell (with Pomfs' strict supervision) now resulted in Luna's hand being covered, but he had yet to find a way to make it more effective.

Finding one equation that could be easily reduced he pulled out his Calculus book and turned to the section on infinite differentials. Fifteen minutes later he had results. Repeating the process until the sun began to peak into the room, he realized that he really wouldn't be getting to sleep now. Grabbing a shirt, he noticed something lying innocently in his trunk- itching powder that had made it through the year. Since it wasn't doing any good there, he happily grabbed it and dumped the entire thing inside Trowler's open trunk. That should teach him to not study in bed without a silencing charm.

Fred spent the rest of his morning experimenting with different variations on his equations. George had opted out of taking the Arithmancy O.W.L. and was spending the morning brewing. When it came time for the Arithmancy test, Fred went out of the Great Hall while the test area was prepared. He just had reduced a large blockage around the Laguz rune and was excited to see if it worked for the other sets.

"Is that a Blood Grimoire?"

Fred looked up to see their neighbor Cedric Diggory. Since he was the same age as the twins they had often played together as children, but when Cedric had been sorted into Hufflepuff things became more difficult. About midway through first year they had stopped hanging out all together. Fred nodded, "Yes, it is. I'm working on a spell."

Cedric peered over the top of the book. "Wow," he gasped, "Just how advanced in Arithmancy are you?"

"Pretty far, I guess." Fred shrugged.

"I thought you were failing out of classes."

Fred frowned slightly, wondering where Cedric had gotten that idea. "I find self-study to be more efficient."

"Oh." Cedric frowned, running his hand through his hair, "I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"I should have known better than to doubt you two. You always did amazing things when we were younger. But Mum said you were bad influences, and-" Cedric trailed off hesitantly.

Fred suddenly realized this was another instance where Hermione was right. Even if they didn't matter, people were judging them on their grades. And who would have told Mrs. Diggory how awful they were? Mum, of course. Fred shrugged, "No matter," as if explaining it away in such simple terms worked. It did matter that apparently their childhood friend wouldn't hang out anymore because of grades. But it was partially the fault of their hair-brain scheme, too.

"Good," Cedric smiled relieved. "So, you play any good pranks lately?"

Fred smirked, looking slightly down the hall where his annoying roommate was rubbing against the wall. "Check out Trowler."

Cedric chuckled, "So is George not taking the exam, then?"

"Nah, he's too busy messing with Potions."

"I can imagine." Cedric smirked, "Do you remember the time he made that color changing potion?"

"And turned Ron's skin green for a week?" Fred chuckled.

"Yeah. It was hilarious! But I thought your Mum was going to kill us."

"She almost did. Had her wand out and everything," Fred mused. If looks could kill, Mum would have done him in years ago.

"Yeah," Cedric laughed, "Hey, are you going to be around this summer? It would be nice to hang out again."

Remembering Grans' promise Fred answered, "No, but George will be. I'm sure he would love someone to talk with."

Cedric nodded sharply, "I'll see about it."

In Pureblood Fred took that to mean he would ask his Mum. As he walked into the Great Hall behind Cedric, Fred determined he and George had majorly messed up when deciding to ditch their grades. Unfortunately, nothing could be done about it now; other than doing the best he could on the O.W.L.s.

As tests go, the Arithmancy O.W.L. was extremely easy, only this time he was trying to answer correctly instead of making up the worst possible answer. For practical there was one Tur'kor, which Fred saw as an extreme waste of resources. Perhaps they reused them after each test? Anyways, he recreated the atom for Lumos and derived it down as far as it would go. Once finished with that easy task he turned his test over and looked around. All the other students were frantically scribbling calculations, with only a few working on their Tur'kors. Fred groaned when he realized there was another hour for the test.

A female test proctor came over to him, "I'd try my best if I were you. There's still time to at least answer part of the questions."

"I'm done," Fred answered. He was starting to get jittery with nothing to do. Perhaps he could try and change the Lumos spell? With only one rune, it was about as simple as it got. But if you connected it to an anchoring rune you might be able to reduce the power necessary, then-

"So you are."

Fred looked up to see the proctor had his test and the Lumos Tur'kor in her hands.

"Good work, you can work on something else. Quietly."

Fred happily waved his hand to summon the Blood Grimoire. The proctor raised her eyebrows but made no comment as she walked off with the test. Fred turned to a blank Tur'kor Hermione had got him and worked on modifying the Lumos spell. Just for fun he also set about adding a stationary structure so that it could be cast and let go. He made the entire structure, then realized that the spell more called for Gebo than Uruz. He had just gotten the spell ready for derivatives when the bell rang. He released the Grimoire back into its hidden space and began to pack up.

"Mr. Weasley."

Fred looked up to see Flitwick bouncing on his toes with a large smile. "Yes, Professor?"

"Do you think you could stay behind for a few minutes?"

"Of course," Fred acquiesced.

As the rest of the students filed out, Fred followed Flitwick up to the teachers platform. Standing up there with the two proctors, Madame Marchbanks, and his charms professor made him feel like he had been sent to McGonagall's office- again.

Madame Marchbanks, the withered old woman who oversaw the S.W.T's (Standardized Wizard Tests) in England approached him with squinted eyes. Fred had seen her a time or two at the Ministry, but had never realized how intimidating she could be until now. She asked nasally, "You're Arthur's boy, aren't you?"

"Uh, yes." Fred answered, "Yes, Ma'am."

She hummed, "And how did you find the test? Be honest."

"Alright," Fred shrugged.

"I see." Marchbanks turned to the male proctor.

The proctor straightened his designer robes imperiously, "By all accounts the work you did on the Lumos spell was wrong."

The female proctor glared, "But some of us think you did enough work to ensure a good score anyway."

"What do you mean wrong?" Fred protested.

The male sneered, "The solution for Lumos is well documented. In fact, I believe it is in the back of your textbook. Something you would know if you had bothered to look."

Fred stewed as he wondered what he could have possibly done wrong. "Can you show me this solution of yours?"

"Of course," Madame Marchbanks smiled ominously, "Hand it over, Landers."

The male practitioner - whose name was apparently Landers - handed a locked Tur'kor over to Fred. Fred took one look at it and blanched at the sloppy work. "These variables aren't fully reduced!" he protested.

"Told you so," smirked the female practitioner.

Landers frowned.

"Now, now, play nice Goldsum."

"How exciting," Flitwick exclaimed, "Can you tell us how you arrived at this conclusion Mr. Weasley?"

"Well it's obvious, isn't it? If they had taken any derivatives the Atom would be smaller."

Marchbanks nodded, "So it is. The reason we use Lumos for the O.W.L.s is because it is one of the oldest and more primitive spells. Derivatives are N.E.W.T. level."

"Oh." Fred asked, "So I got it wrong, then?"

"Goddess no!" Marchbanks said, "Full points. But Goldsum mentioned you had a Blood Grimoire. We were wondering if you had any Tur'kors in it?"

Fred nodded, "Yes."

Goldsum beamed, "Can we see?"

Fred was a little nervous about shoeing his work to anyone besides Hermione, but figured it wouldn't hurt. He waved his hand to call the Grimoire and laid it open to the Lumos Tur'kor he was just working on.

"Marvelous!" exclaimed Flitwick.

"What's that supposed to be?" asked Landers stoically.

"Well, I put an anchoring rune on the basic Lumos so it would take less magic to cast. Theoretically, will would be reduced also."

"A sound theory." Marchbanks pointed her finger at the page, "Do you think you could show us a derivative there?"

Fred hesitantly laid the book on the table, straightened out his quill, and got to work. Focusing on the pull of the harmony, he allowed the feel off the magic to take him, completely forgetting where he was.

Several minutes later he was startled by Flitwick's, "I think we have seen enough, Mr. Weasley."

"An excellent job," beamed Goldsum.

"It's all just theory," Landers huffed. "Why don't you cast it and see?"

Fred didn't like Landers. If it was anything else - Quidditch for example - he would have rose to the provocation. He had learned his lesson about spells, though. Instead he simply replied, "No."

"So you can't actually cast anything you make?" Landers smirked.

Goldsum rolled her eyes, "Honestly, I think what he has is amazing. Besides, it's for the best he's taking precautions."

"I agree." Marchbanks grinned toothily, "You wouldn't happen to have a spell you can cast in there, would you?"

Fred frowned. He could cast his shield spell, but he doubted any of the examiners would let him perform it on them. Although, seeing Landers freak about him casting on him would be fun. If only there was another student. Perhaps his arm would have to do. "I can." He tucked the Grimoire under his left arm, holding that palm out straight. Performing the now familiar wand movements, "Arma Sui!", he released the spell on his left palm.

The burning from his shoulder was instantaneous. How could he be so stupid to forget he had active Runes on his left arm? Gritting his teeth, he braced through the pain. He had had worse, but this was decidedly uncomfortable.

Flitwick's excited clapping reminded him of the others in the room. "Amazing Mr. Weasley!" he squeaked.

Fred hesitantly looked down at his palm. Instead of a small patch being covered in green, his whole hand was outlined in icy white scales. He marveled at the change, sure it had to do with the Isa rune. Reaching out to feel of his left had, he started at the realization that his right hand was also covered.

"Something wrong, Mr. Weasley?" Landers scowled.

Fred swallowed, "No. It's just never been this solid before. I had been working on reducing it further, but-"

"Absolutely marvelous!" Flitwick beamed, "What kind of charm is it?"

"Well, it's supposed to be a shield spell, but we haven't tested it with spells yet."

"Oh! Allow me." Flitwick excitedly pulled out his wand.

Before Fred could object a wordless Stupefy was headed towards him. When it impacted he felt his core being drained at an alarming rate. Through his panic he was able to cast a Finite, thankful that he already knew it was able to dispel the shield spell. His knowledge held true for this amplified version and the spell quickly dispersed.

Looking up he noticed Flitwick was lying on the ground- a victim of his own spell. "I'm sorry!" Fred blurted. He would have awoken the small teacher, yet he wasn't sure his core could take it.

Marchbanks chuckled. Waving her wand, Flitwick woke up.

"That's a fine spell, Mr. Weasley!" Flitwick chirped toothily.

"Thank you," Fred was sure he was blushing. Although if the heat on his cheeks was due to exhaustion or embarrassment, he couldn't tell.

"Are we done here Madame?" Flitwick inquired.

"I think we have everything."

"Right then, come along Mr. Weasley. Need to clear out the room for so the tables can be set back up."

Fred sent his Grimoire away, shouldered his bag, and unsteadily followed the small Professor out.

Ahead of him, Flitwick was walking quite rapidly. When they got to the door he turned towards Fred. "Tell me Mr. Weasley, have you given any thought to what you are doing after school?"

Fred blinked through the fog in his brain, "Spellcrafter."

Flitwick nodded, "And your Masters?"

"Arithmancy and Charms."

"Right," Flitwick chirped, "It's been a while since I have had an apprentice. See you first thing next year!"

"What-" Fred began to protest, but Flitwick had already headed down the hall.

Fred sighed. Not really able to determine if Flitwick's declaration was a product of his wooziness. Surely that had not just happened. He wished he had some Reno. Hospital Wing it was then.

Trudging up the stairs he slowly meandered his way into Pomfs' domain. Once he got there, he stopped in the door for a few seconds to catch his breath. Through the windows he could see the clouds hanging low over the grounds, midday rays of sunlight illuminating the hills. Fred stared out the window for a few minutes, just taking in the rolling hills and their vibrant greens this time of year. Another wave of light-headedness came over him as he swayed on his feet- Fred decided he should look for Pomfs.

Taking a few steps towards her office, a hesitant voice called out from his side, "Fred?"

Fred turned slightly, and there she was. The ray of light shown on her bead, illuminating her growing body. Fred smiled slightly, the Goddess must be kind to him today. He ditched his shoes on the way to the bed. Happily climbing on it he curled up against her side.

"Fred?" she shook him, "Fred! What's wrong?"

Fred yawned, "Just some exhaustion."

A warm hand touched his forehead. "You're freezing."

"Go to sleep, Princess." Fred closed his eyes.

As he drifted off to sleep he wondered how he would ever walk away from this warmth.

…o0o…

Fred yawned some time later, blearily ruling his eyes.

"Finally up?" a familiar voice asked from above him.

Fred blinked drowsily. He knew that voice. Looking up he saw Hermione reading a book. His arm was draped over her legs. They were both in bed. Together. Fred hastily set up. "Sorry."

Hermione shrugged, "What happened?"

"Well," Fred recalled, "I cast the Arma spell. You will never guess-"

"Pardon Mr. Weasley? It sounded an awful lot like you were casting a spell without supervision again!" Fred cringed at the irate tone of Pomfs.

"Flitwick was there!" he protested.

The matron pursed her lips, "I suppose I shall have to have a word with him, then."

Felling a bit sorry for the diminutive professor, Fred decided to take the high ground and quit while he was ahead. "Thank you for fixing me up, Pomfs."

Pomfrey raised an eyebrow, "Your quite welcome Mr. Weasley. Although I can't say I did much. Your exhaustion wasn't that bad that your core couldn't refill itself with a little rest. At least you had some sense to come here and get it." Nodding at him, she went behind the curtain of another patient.

Hermione reached up to touch his forehead. Fred blushed, feeling like he was two again. "At least your temperature is back to normal."

"Temperature?"

"Yeah, you felt like ice earlier. Madam Pomfrey said it would return to normal once your core replenished itself. What happened?"

Fred smiled, "Well, the examiners wanted to know what all I could do with Arithmancy. And this one - real jerk - thought I couldn't cast any of my spells. So I cast the Arma. But I didn't have anyone to cast it on - so I thought - why not try it on myself?"

"You didn't!" Hermione moaned, "Don't you remember the rules of self-transfiguration?"

Fred nervously scratched his brow, "Now I do?"

Hermione pulled a pillow out from beside her and let him have it, "You idiot!"

Fred chuckled as he pulled the pillow from her grasp, "But it worked!"

"It worked like normal?"

"Well no-"

Void of pillows, Hermione swatted him with her hand. "Idiot."

Fred, unhurt from her hit, was more hurt by her reprimanding. After the last incident he should have accounted for the effect it would have if the spell was cast on himself. There was much more to consider in Spellcrafting than he had originally believed. Still, "That's why I have you to keep me straight."

Hermione smiled slightly, "So what happened?"

"Well, Isa went haywire." He could still feel the rune burning more than normal on his arm.

"No! Oh Fred, I'm sorry. Are you alright?"

"Yes," Fred nodded, "but then Arma somehow covered my entire body. It was like being covered in ice, except it wasn't cold."

Hermione's chocolate eyes were fixed on him, "That's amazing."

"It was. It even repelled Flitwick's stunner!"

"Really?"

"Yeah!" Fred frowned, "That was when if felt the pull of my magic, though. And-"

Fred paused when he felt the familiar presence of his brothers heading towards the hospital wing. How they figured he was there was beyond him.

"Then what?" she asked. "Oh."

Fred saw Hermione's eyes look behind him about a second before a heavy weight collided with him, knocking out his breath. Landing heavily on the bed, he herd an amused George chuckling from behind him. Perce strolled up confidently behind them.

"So, Miss Granger, how did you end up in the Hospital Wing?"

Fred narrowed his eyes. With all the commotion he hadn't thought about it himself. Pushing George off he looked intently at Hermione in her hospital pajamas. "Yes. What are you doing here?" he demanded inquisitively.

Hermione blushed, "I got hit with a Stunning Spell. Madame Pomfrey just wanted me to stay for observation."

"Who hit you with a stunning spell?" Percy protested, "Casting spells in the halls is forbidden!"

Exactly what he was thinking. Whoever did it would tremble at the word 'prank' by the time he was done.

"Well," Hermione shrugged, "It's kind of a long story."

"Good. With tests over for the day, I was beginning to think I would be bored." George affirmed.

Percy asked, "And where is Ron?"

"Ron?" Fred asked, turning to look at Percy. Why would Ron be here? Did the person who Stunned Hermione also get Ron?

Hermione palled. Fred started to get a bad feeling deep in his bones. "He's behind that curtain. But-"

None of the brothers were listening now. Percy made it there first, tossing the curtain aside. The sight that greeted them was ghastly. Ron looked like a mummy. Fred was having a difficult time sensing Ron, which was a good indicator that his brother was exhausted and his magic was struggling to keep him alive. Wrapped in bandages from his chest down, his little brother felt like a corpse to his sense. He even had an IV. Wizards didn't use IV's unless the person was in critical enough state to need constant potions.

Fred trembled as he watched a pale Pierce bolt towards the School Matrons' office. Deep inside, Fred could feel his magic roaring to life. The lanterns in the hospital wing began to flicker, the bed in front of him shook. He needed to calm down before he hurt Ron worse. Control, he needed control. George must have been thinking the same thing, because he grabbed onto Fred's hand.

George turned back towards Hermione, "Who did this?"

A great question. Fred had never killed before, but it wasn't out of the question. Not for family.

Hermione warily got out of the bed and came to stand beside them. She sighed heavily. "I wasn't there for most of it, but from what I know there was a duel. Ron got caught by a spell and lost a lot of blood." Hermione rubbed her hands as if washing them.

"Who was the duel between?" Fred surprised himself with how cold his voice sounded.

Hermione stopped worrying her lip to respond, "Black and Snape."

Fred was fine with that. He never liked that greasy bat anyways. George might be disappointed. Right now he really didn't care.

"And whose spell was this?" George demanded.

Hermione exhaled, "Well, Black broke his leg. When Snape sent his spell, Ron couldn't dodge."

"Bloody hell," George cursed.

"Agreed," nodded Fred.

Percy bustled back in. "I just floo'd Mum," Percy scowled, "Why is everyone getting injured this year?"

"It was Snape," Fred snapped.

"And Black," George glared.

Perce narrowed his eyes. "I think I would like to here this story."

Hermione - who was still ringing her hands - asked, "Can one of you cast privacy wards?"

At that point it was just a question who pulled out their wand fastest.

…o0o…

They all went back to Hermione's hospital bed. Hermione set at the top, while the twins threw themselves across the middle, and Perce set elegantly on the end. They were all focused on Hermione. Fred didn't like the tension at all. He needed to know what happened yesterday. Bloody Astronomy O.W.L., distracting him. The incident must have been too far away for him to sense. He needed something like the Family Clock to let him know when his family was in danger. Not only had Ron been hurt, Hermione had been stunned and left vulnerable. If he had known he would have left that test and never looked back.

"Well," Hermione cleared her throat anxiously. "Well- I- Do you remember the Grimm?"

Fred was taken off guard. Grimm's couldn't cast spells.

"What Grimm?" asked Perce alarmed.

George answered, "The one that's been hanging around school-"

"We've seen him a few times." Fred concluded.

"And you never thought to tell me?" Perce chastised. "Goddess grant me patience."

"Sorry," said George.

Fred encouraged Hermione, "Go on."

"He was really Black." Hermione's words were so fast Fred had to take a minute to process.

"What?" Perce bellowed. "How did he get past the wards?"

"Um," Hermione chewed on her lip, "I don't think they are built to recognize Animagus. I mean Pettigrew got in, so-" If it was possible Hermione slouched even more.

"Pettigrew?" asked George.

"Yeah, uh, Peter Pettigrew. He-"

"He's dead," Perce said flatly. "Back to the story of how you got attacked by Black, please."

Fred could tell Perce was about to blow. His deadly calm voice was a sure sign.

Hermione shook her head, "He's not dead. I saw him last night. Apparently-"

Knowing this was hard for her, Fred scooted up to the headboard and put his arm around her shoulders. She immediately collapsed into his side. "Go on," he gently urged.

"He was the Potter's secret keeper. He had been hiding out as pet in his Animagus form for years. Black saw a picture in the paper and escaped Azkaban to kill him."

"Who would be stupid enough to not realize their pet was a person?" Perce chastised.

Hermione giggled wearily.

George narrowed his eyes, "What?"

"He was Scabbers."

"What?" Perce stuttered. "No- No, you're wrong."

Wanting to go to his brother, he was glad when George took the initiative.

Fred frowned, "What makes you say that?"

"Well, I saw him transform back into a rat. Apparently Black saw Pettigrew in your family picture when you went to Egypt. And, when Black broke into the common room he was going after Ron's bed, not Harry's.

Perce deflated, "I can't believe it."

George asked, "They caught him, right?"

"No," Hermione answered warily, "He got away when Professor Lupin transformed."

"Lupin transformed?" Perce asked wide eyed.

"He's an Animagus too?" Fred asked curiously.

"No," Perce stated, "He's a Werewolf."

George gasped. Fred held on tighter to Hermione.

Perce frowned, "What was he doing outside his office wards on a full moon?"

"Well, apparently he saw Ron being dragged off by Sirius Black."

Perce nodded, "That makes sense, I guess. Why didn't he notify Dumbledore, though?"

Hermione sighed, "Because he was old friends with Black. He was the one who stunned me."

Fred made a note to himself: make sure Defense teachers are always under guard. First Quirrell and now this.

"How did Snape get involved in all this?" asked George.

"Well, he saw Lupin and followed him. Harry said it was because he was suspicious Lupin was helping Snape."

Perce asked, "Where is Harry anyway? Shouldn't he be here?"

Hermione shrugged, "Dumbledore wanted to talk to him."

At least someone came out of the whole mess unscathed. Seriously, his bother's friends got into more trouble then he did! Fred asked, "So what happened after Ron was attacked?"

"Me and Madame Pomfrey brought him here."

Perce frowned, "I thought you were stunned. And when did Pomfrey get there?"

"Well- I- Uh-"

Fred groaned, "Tell me you didn't!"

"I had no choice! Dumbledore told me too. Ron was dying! You should have seen the blood…" Hermione trailed off and went to looking at her hands again.

George narrowed his eyes, "Didn't what?"

Knowing he was under vow, Fred nudged Hermione gently.

"Oh, uh," she stammered, "I have a time tuner."

"Hell," swore Perce.

"Wicked," exclaimed George. Seeing Fred's lack of reaction he glared, "You knew!"

Fred smirked.

"It is most certainly not wicked." Perce chastised, "What was Dumbledore thinking?"

Hermione shrugged, "I just wanted to take all the electives."

"Then do independent study like I do!"

Hermione looked away from her hands to stare at Perce, "You do independent study?"

"How else do you think I'm taking 12 N.E.W.T.'s? Independent study has been an option at Hogwarts for centuries."

"I didn't know that." Hermione looked wistfully out the window.

Fred pushed through the vow, he could feel the magic choking his own in warning. "There's another reason."

Hermione shrugged, "You tell them."

Fred sighed as he felt the vow lift.

Perce narrowed his eyes.

"Vow," Fred said. His brothers looked at each other.

George nodded, "Go on."

Fred thought hard on the best way to explain this. "You remember first year when Ron was in the Hospital Wing?"

George nodded sharply, "Because of Quirrell."

Perce looked over at their younger brothers bed, "Seems to be a pattern."

"Well apparently he was possessed." Fred spoke hesitantly, "By You-Know-Who."

"What?" screeched George.

"How is that possible? How come nobody knows? The public needs to know that he is still out there!" Perce frowned indignantly.

Fred could tell Perce was going into thinking mode. Probably his shock still hadn't worn off from the Pettigrew incident. Fred scowled, "The best I can figure is that Dumbledore wanted to keep it a secret as not to cause panic."

"Or encourage his followers to help him." Perce narrowed his eyes, "So he put Ron under a vow."

"How long have you known?" asked George.

"Only a few months."

George frowned, "So how is he still alive?"

Hermione shrugged beneath his arm, "Not even Dumbledore knows. He told Harry he had some guesses."

As the brothers digested all that they had just learned, Fred was certain of one thing: Voldemort, Black, Snape - it didn't matter who - the next person who threatened his family was going to have to go through him.

…o0o…

Fred sighed as he finished the last answer on his History of Magic test. Time had just been called so he couldn't go back and make any changes. The revelations in the Hospital Wing yesterday weighed heavily on his mind, and he had probably not been as focused as he should have.

According to Pomfs, Ron was hit by a dark cutting spell. Apparently Snape had used it during the war. Bloody spy. Ron would be relased tomorrow, but still sore for a couple of weeks.

Handing his paper to the proctor, he reflected that the time turner had been useful. Not only for studying, but for saving his and Ron's lives. Somehow they needed to not depend on it in the future.

George jumped a desk to get to him, "Don't tell me you want to stay?"

"No." Fred chuckled as he grabbed his bag, "So glad that's-"

"Over." George nodded.

"Hey George?"

"Hey Fred?"

"How good are you at healing potions?"

George's eyes narrowed, "Alright, I guess. Why?"

"You know," Fred looked at him seriously.

"Ah." George nodded, "I see your point. But preservation vials are expensive."

"Why?"

"Something about Runes and Charms being difficult to combine."

Fred sighed. Charms he could do, but combining Runes was-

Grabbing George's shoulder he smirked, "I might just have the solution."

"Really?"

"Really," he nodded. He just had to tell Hermione why they needed portable healing potions and he was sure she would be all for the project.

…o0o…

Come Saturday, Fred was shocked to learn (not really) that George had snuck a preservation vial out of Snape's office.

"For experimentation," George said proudly.

The shimmering vial had a foul green substance in it.

"Won't we need to dispose of the potion first?"

George shrugged, "It's just a basic wart remover." He went into the dorm bathroom and came out a minute later proudly holding the empty vial. "No problem see?"

Fred observed the magic currents of the vial curiously. Without the potion in it, it was much easier to see the magic making it work. It felt like a fine mesh web was surrounding the vial. As he was looking, though, he felt something very destructive coming from the bathroom. "George," Fred said urgently as he directed his twin back to the bathroom. They raced inside the room.

"Bloody hell," George stared at the sink. Or chuck of stone might be more appropriate. It was melting. George grinned mischievously, "Wicked. Snape's brilliant. I've got to learn how to do that."

As the floor started to melt, Fred cleared his throat, "Perhaps we should make ourselves scarce?"

George nodded, "Excellent idea, brother mine."

The twins headed for the library at a trot- fast enough to leave the scene of the crime, but not to fast to make anyone suspicious. As expected, Fred quickly felt Hermione through the shelves and cut a path to her.

Naturally, Hermione was at the usual table reading. Fred came up behind her, "Don't you know-"

"Exams are over?" They asked.

Hermione smiled sweetly, "Yes, but you are here too."

George scoffed, "We are not here to study!"

"We are way beyond such menial tasks."

"We have come for research!"

"If fair maiden is willing?" Fred clarified.

Hermione giggled, "What research?"

George held up the potion vial, "This is a preservation vial. Put a potion in and it is good for months."

"Only problem is they are bloody expensive."

"So we are going to make one," they concluded.

Hermione reached for the vial. She turned it over curiously. A drop of potion spilled out, burning a hole in Harmonie's book. George quickly slammed the book shut. "Hey!" she protested.

Fred grabbed the vial and handed it back to George. Shouldering Hermione's bag, he smiled charmingly, "It's such a nice day. Why don't we take this outside?"

Hermione narrowed her eyes. She looked between the two suspiciously. Fred figured she was on to them, until she shrugged her shoulders, "Alright."

Behind her back, the twins winked at each other. After years of pranking, they knew how to cover up their tracks quickly.

Hermione skipped down the hallway. Fred was a little curious as to what had her so happy.

"So?" he asked.

"So what?" she responded.

George chimed in, "Going to tell us what has you so-"

"Happy?"

Hermione smiled, "Mum's going to take me on a girls vacation to Paris! We are even going to go to the magical district. I can't wait to see what books they have!"

Fred raised an eyebrow, "Won't their books be in French?"

"Je parle français parfait!" Hermione answered haughtily.

That was news to Fred. "Well, congrats."

Hermione beamed. Fred was a little jealous that she was going on a trip and he would be stuck with Gran.

"In here should work," George gestured to an empty classroom.

Following him in Hermione eagerly turned to the twins, "Well, where do we start?"

Fred was immediately reminded of Perce. Hermione was so cute, the way she enjoyed projects.

George started, "Well, the main problem is that it uses a combination of Runes and Charms. Fred said you were good at Runes?"

Hermione blushed, "Well I have some experience."

Fred chuckled.

"Am I missing something?" asked George.

"I thought she was going to break my quill when she cast on it."

George got wide eyed, "You've already cast Runes? That's amazing!"

"Well-" Hermione nibbled on her lip. "You didn't tell him?"

Fred frowned, "Tell him what?"

George scowled, "Tell me what?"

"Oh." Fred exclaimed, remembering the first rune Hermione cast. "No! He doesn't need to know." If George knew, then Perce would know. That would be very bad. It would be a never ending lecture.

"Doesn't need to know what?"

Hermione frowned, "Why not?"

Fred frantically wondered it there was a way out of this conversation. Just as he was about to give up, he sensed a looming malevolent presence. "Shh!" he said.

"Don't shh me, Fred Weasley!" George grumbled, "I want to know what you are hiding from me- yesterday!"

Knowing the gig was up, Fred grabbed the vial from Georges hand, cast a quick preservation spell so it wouldn't leak anymore, and passed it to Hermione with a quite, "Hide this."

George glared. Thankfully, his protests were cut off by a large Main Coon entering the classroom. Over the years they had become very familiar with that particular cat. Transforming, a furious McGonagall snapped, "I have heard many things in my teaching career, but never did I expect to hear from a House Elf that the Gryffindor tower was melting!"

"What?" exclaimed Hermione.

"What makes you think it was us?" George asked.

Fred got the feeling this would turn out bad, based on McGonagall's roaring magic.

McGonagall glared, "Because you two were the last in the 5th year boys dorm."

"Now then-"

Fred quickly elbowed George, "It was an accident with a potions experiment. We apologize."

George sputtered behind him.

"Potions experiments are not for the dorms!" McGonagall screeched. "Detention!"

"How many?" George unfortunately asked.

"As many as it takes!" McGonagall fumed, "Go see Filch."

Fred and Gorge looked at each other, wondering how they had gotten into this situation. Apparently their waiting was a a bad idea, because McGonagall roared, "NOW!"

…o0o…

A week filled with grueling detentions later, Fred was excited for the end of term feast. McGonagall had been ruthless. Detentions from sunup to sundown with only the House Elves bringing them food. Worse, she had put them in separate wings of the castle scrubbing the walls. Fred had no idea how grimy the Hogwarts walls were until that week. Thankfully she didn't have time for anymore detentions, and it was a school requirement every student attended the leaving feast.

At least the punishment was finally over. Even if Mcgonagall had written Mum, he wouldn't be there long enough for her to do anything. Honestly, who thought the Hogwarts sinks were that irreplaceable? True, there was the issue of the 4th year boys dorm room and the minor hole- so what if they could jump down into it?

Fred buttoned his last button as George came to stand beside him, "Ready?"

"Ready." Fred smirked.

Together they walked towards the great hall in their best dress robes. It wouldn't do to be late.

Sitting with their rest of the fifth years, they happily ate their dinner.

When it came time for the graduation ceremony, they clapped excitedly as Perce received his diploma. McGonagall presented him with the Head Boy plaque showing his name; knowing Fred's luck, he would be cleaning that in the Trophy Room next year. It was a bitter sweet moment. When Perce had first gone off to Hogwarts it had been hard on them; now they would be stuck without Perce at Hogwarts.

Finally, it came time to announce the House Cup. Oliver had already received the Quidditch Cup, and there was no doubt Gryffindor would win. Their Quidditch win ensured them more points, and the trio had managed to avoid any mishaps that cost points. Even Fred and George had managed to minimize point losses this year. At least McGonagall wanted it bad too, or she might have docked points for the sink incident.

Dumbledore stood elegantly, "Thank you for another wonderful year. Finally, this years House Cup goes to Gryffindor!" The table erupted with cheers. "Well done!" Dumbledore clapped.

As the food turned to desert, everyone immediately noticed an oddity. Every student had a desert on their plate. It was red and rubbery.

"It moves!" complained Ron.

"It's gelatin," giggled Hermione from up the table.

Fred smirked, he knew the House Elves could follow the recipe right. He had found it in his Chemistry book, and had had George ask the House Elves make it.

"There's something inside it!" Collin Creevey said excitedly. A minute later he hollered, "It's a cracker!" A loud bang was heard from up the table followed by laughter. Fred didn't know what Collin had gotten, but he knew George had arranged to pull items out of the lost and found. Fred had spent every night this week making the crackers, he would be crazy if he didn't open one.

"Mine!" Fred said excitedly as he dove his hand into George's desert. Unfortunately, he sprayed red gelatin all over Lee.

"Oh, that's how it is," Lee said sternly. He then lifted up his plate and threw it at Fred.

Fred sputtered through the sticky red goo.

"Hey!" screamed a Hufflepuff from behind him.

"Food fight!" Fred recognized Cedric's voice.

After that it was on. Fred and George ran everywhere trying to fling more gelatin at others.

At one point he slid under the Ravenclaw table. When no one attacked him immediately, he decided to open his cracker. The curiosity was killing him. Inside was a green sock with a hole in the toe. Laughing, he stuffed it into his pocket and looked for another victim. Fred was surprised that they had been allowed to continue the fight for so long. But as long as Dumbledore didn't say anything, they could make as big of mess as possible. It was a chance he couldn't pass up. While looking, Fred noticed one of the girls had just flung a large glob of gelatin at Hermione. Taking out his wand he redirected the mass back to the thrower.

Hermione looked around curiously; he waved at her with his wand hand.

She smirked, and pulled out her own wand.

Soon enough, everyone had their wand out. If possible, the fight got even dirtier with the inclusion of wands. At least the projectiles didn't hurt.

Ten minutes of chaos later, Dumbledore set off some fireworks. Fred was amazed- but not really surprised- to note that there was no gelatin on the teachers' platform. Snape was staring intently at the Slytherins with a huge scowl on his face; Fred couldn't tell if he was more upset at his house loosing the Cup or the gelatin war.

Dumbledore beamed, "Some say laughter is the worlds' best medicine. I hope you always remember that." Fred sobered, remembering the hard times ahead, "Now, if everyone wouldn't mind casting a few cleaning spells before we leave?"

Fred nodded, casting a silent Scourgify on the table in front of him.

Ron came out from under the table, wincing slightly.

"Alright?" asked Fred.

Ron nodded, "Yeah, just sore still."

"Don't push yourself."

"Yeah." Ron cleaned a little of the gelatin. Then he did more. And again. Fred was impressed. Ron would usually give up after a few tries.

Fred chuckled at the red gelatin bleeding down his brothers face and back. "Hey Ron?"

"What?"

Fred cast a shower spell on his younger brother.

"Hey!" Ron complained, "A little warning."

Casting the spell on himself he smiled at Ron, "Let me help."

Fred's cleaning spell took care of a much larger area. Ron frowned and tried again.

Together all the students had the Great Hall clean in about ten minutes.

"Hey Fred?" Ron asked as they headed towards the entrance.

"Yeah?"

"Why do you recon all the crackers had socks?"

Fred laughed.

…o0o…

Finally, the last day of term was upon them. George was ecstatic to go home and experiment again. Fred was just glad to get away from McGonagall for a few months. However, since he would be with Gran learning Dark Arts, he wasn't sure if McGonagall would be the safer option. Putting on his red shirt, he headed down to breakfast. Hermione and Harry were sitting beside a subdued Ron. Mum had been furious at his injuries and was bound to coddle him for the summer. Come to think of it, it was probably a great time to be away from the Burrow seeing as how he had been injured this year also.

The twins set next to the Golden Trio and dug in.

"Everyone ready for summer?" George asked.

"Yes. I packed yesterday." Hermione chirped. Her glare at the boys indicated they had rushed to do so this morning. Fred conveniently forgot to mention he had dome the same.

Fred smiled at her spirit, "That's good. You got any plans Harry?"

Harry shrugged, "Watch TV, I guess."

"Well don't forget your summer homework," Hermione chastised.

McGonagall came up beside them. Even though Fred adverted his eyes, he still felt like he was being given a death glare. "Miss Granger, can you come with me for a few moments?"

"Of course." Hermione nodded politely.

"Does she really think we would forget our homework?" Harry asked. "She won't let us!"

"Right," Ron answered languidly.

George chimed in, "Chin up-"

"Ronnie boy."

"Just think-"

"George will get all the chores." Fred said

"What?" sputtered George.

"Yeah, Gin never has any, Mum won't give them to Ron because of his injuries, and I'll be gone."

George gasped, "I've been betrayed by my own blood!"

Everyone laughed.

Later, as they made their way to the train stop, the twins caught up with Perce.

"How's it feel-"

"Leaving for the last time?"

Perce smiled faintly, "Like I will finally be rid of you two."

The twins chuckled, wrapping their arms around his shoulders, "Us?"

"Never!"

"We'll be together-"

"Till our dying day!"

"You two will be so old you'll leave the pranks to your children!" Perce smirked.

"And you'll be so old-"

"You won't be a pounce anymore!"

Perce chuckled, "Off with you two. I have to do rounds. I'm-"

"Head boy."

"Did we know that?"

"I don't know-"

"He might have-"

"Mentioned it a time or-"

"Two. This year."

"Har-har," laughed Perce sarcastically. "One of you two could still make Head Boy you know. Carry on the family tradition. Did you know-"

Fred grabbed ahold of George, "Later-"

"Perce!"

Glad to have made it away before the speech drug on for days, the brothers made a beeline for a bathroom.

"Can you imagine?"

"One of us as Head Boy?"

"The teachers would be-"

"Desperate. But think of all the-"

"Pranks we could do after curfew."

"Nah," they shook their heads. Some things were just not worth it.

Locking themselves in the stall, they began their summer tradition of switching their tops. Fred put on George's blue sweater, wondering why his twin had decided to wear something so warm on this nice summer day.

"If Heidi finds you, just run. She's been a little upset lately."

Fred sighed, "Alright. You going to check that Ron and them are settled?"

"Sure," said George.

Just like clockwork, the Hogwarts Express left Hogsmeade, signifying the end to another school year.

…o0o…

The train slowly seemed into the London station. Fred's disguise as George had gone well. The only person who had figured it out was Lee, who laughed at the look on his face when talking about Potions. He had to work on that, but there were some things he would never like. The nauseating feel of ingredients combining together always drove his magic sensitivity wild. It was like looking at a kaleidoscope you couldn't stop. Put ten cauldrons in one room, and it was no wonder he never paid attention to the ingredients. At least George was kind enough to be his partner; Snape had figured out pretty quickly in first year that not letting them work together spelled disaster.

He peeked into the trio's compartment. "You three ready to go?"

"I guess," shrugged Harry.

Pulling out his wand, he cast featherweight charms on all their trunks.

"You can't use magic outside of school!" Hermione chastised.

Fred winked, "The train is considered school property."

Grabbing Ron's trunk he headed out onto the platform.

"Hey!" protested Ron indignantly. "I could have gotten that."

Fred ruffled his hair. "Wouldn't want Mum to think I'm mistreating 'poor injured Ronikins'."

Ron scowled.

George came down from further up the train carrying both their trunks. "Thanks for the charms."

Fred nodded. Since he was so much more powerful, his charms lasted significantly longer. He was glad that he could provide the help.

"See Mum yet?" Ron asked.

George shook his head, "Nah. What do you bet-"

"She's late?" Fred was surprised when Ron answered too.

The brothers chuckled.

Hermione came up beside them. "Well, then. You all have a good summer. And don't forget to write." Fred was surprised when she proceeded to hug all of them. He wouldn't deny that it felt good. But why did she have to hug George?

"You too!" Fred called behind her retreating back. He probably should have mentioned Gran might not let her write, but surely Ron would tell her where he was.

"Well, I better go find the Dursleys," said Harry glumly.

"Take care, mate," said Ron.

With a nod, Harry was also off.

While waiting around for Mum, the brothers were surprised to see the Diggory's approaching. Ced's Mum was a thinner woman with a shrewd eye endowed on her by her Malfoy lineage. She was Lucius Malfoy's sister, but the scandal of her being sorted into Hufflepuff had caused her to be disowned. Fred remembered her always being kind when they were younger, but she still approached everything like a Slytherin. Her high necked green frock only added to her image.

"Wesleys," Mrs. Diggory tossed back her long blonde locks haughtily, "Cedric has been telling me how well you did on your O.W.L.s."

George frowned, unsure how to handle the situation. Fred had forgotten to tell him, what with Ron's injuries.

Fred nodded respectively, "Yes. I hope to get a Charm's mastery. Professor Flitwick has agreed to mentor me." He hoped he had interpreted the Charms Professor's intent correctly.

"I see," Mrs. Diggory narrowed in on George, "And you?"

George seemed to have caught on, because he responded, "I was going to master in Potions, although I don't think Snape will be quite as generous." He sent a mock glare Fred's way.

"Well then, we best be getting home." Mrs. Diggory sent a warmer smile their way, "I expect to see you two about this summer, yes?"

As his mother departed, Cedric mouthed "sorry" to the group before following in her footsteps.

George elbowed him - a little harder than necessary - and said, "What was that about?"

Fred shrugged, "She thought our grades made us a bad influence."

George scowled.

"You're apprenticing with Flitwick?" Ron asked with a tinge of jealousy.

Fred smirked, "Yeap." On seeing Ron's frown he added. "Charms are just what I'm good at. Don't worry, you've got a few years before career counseling, yet."

"Yeah," George nodded, "Figure out what works for you and go with that."

Seeing how their comments weren't helping Ron, Fred was glad when he spotted Mum in the thinning crowd.

…o0o…

That night everyone set excitedly around the large dinner table. Mum had made a cake to celebrate Perce's graduation, and talk focused on how all of their year at school had went.

When it was over, Mum asked George to help with the dishes.

Fred followed behind his twin. Mum frowned, "Fred, dear, why don't you go have some fun? Gran will be here to get you in the morning, and I would hate for you to have to do chores tonight."

"Alright," Fred decided he could use a walk around the Burrow. George scowled at him, and Fred was happy to stick his tongue out at his twin when Mum wasn't looking.

The summer air around the Burrow was crisp and bright. Fred breathed in the smell of the fruit trees as he headed to his favorite spot down by the pond. Standing under the old willow tree he watched the water of the pond quietly. As he did, he felt more relaxed than he had in months. So much had happened this year, he was still trying to process it all. He had made a friend in Hermione, cast his first spell successfully, became the oldest twin (finally) due to extensive time-turner use, and even decided what to do with his life. On the other hand, he had learned that Voldemort was alive. It was interesting how life changed when you weren't looking.

Deciding to go back inside, he stood up and stretched. As he did, he noticed the light on in the shed. Wondering what his Dad was up to, he decided to go look.

His Dad's shed was a rickety old thing, stacks of plywood held together by magic. His Dad had told them many times how he was walking in the city one day and saw the Muggles throwing the wood away. He didn't know how to put it together any other way but with sticking charms, and professional builders were expensive. Occasionally, one of the sticking charms would wear off and Dad would have to put the shed back together again.

Gently pulling the door out as it scraped the ground, "Dad?"

Dad looked up from his Muggle device, "Hey son, what can I help you with?" Dad always called both of the twins by son, so as not to confuse them.

Fred shrugged, "Just wanted to see what you are up to."

"Oh," Dad said surprised. Fred felt bad, realizing he had never done that before. "Well, I'm just trying to see if I can modify a spell to get this work without Ektricity."

"Electricity." Fred frowned, "You modify spells?"

"I piddle. How do you think I got the old Ford to run?" He sighed wistfully, "I do miss that car."

"How does that work without crafting a new one?"

"You mean spellcrafting?" Dad chuckled, "Your Mum would have my head."

Opps. "So what do you do then?"

"Well, it is all about successfully linking two spells together. If you don't do it correctly, then they won't work. Something about interrupting the harmony, or something."

"Interrupting the spells harmony leads to a failure in the resonance, but if you oscillate the two harmonies together right, it can create a different result than the original spells?"

"I guess," Dad laughed. "It sounds like you know more Arithmancy than I do. I don't really understand that, but I have been able to figure out a few tricks over the years."

Fred sat down on the seat of an old bicycle, "Why don't you show me what you are working on?"

"Alright," Dad smiled, "Well this is a toy boat." Dad held up a small blue boat large enough to fit in his hand. "It runs on batteries. Supposedly, when you flip this switch, these spinners turn. But if you just put a basic propulsion spell on it, it hits the wall. I'm trying to add in a directional spell so that it will know when to turn."

"Do you think you can show me?" Fred asked curiously

"Let's see, then. Loco Sense Motor Directo!" Dad watched the boat anxiously for any movement. Fred could already tell that it had gone wrong though, due to the magic boiling over and releasing halfway through the incantation.

"Why don't you try Locosensmoto Directo? That should make the resonance better."

Dad shrugged, "Wouldn't hurt to try. Locosensmoto Directo!" Again, nothing happened. Dad sighed.

Fred shook his head, that should have worked, but something was missing. "Do you mind if I try?" Fred knew that he could cast over the summer with permission. Surely Gran would have him do so, since that loophole was more a Pureblood tradition.

Dad nodded, "Don't tell your Mum."

Fred concentrated. Like the second time he had cast Arma, he listened to the magic as he cast. When he finished the first word he could feel the magics' resistance. Changing the swish into a more binding triad movement, he felt the spell calm. On the table, the little boat sprung to life.

"I'll be!" Dad beamed. "Lets try it out." Dad stood up and set the boat in a tub of water on the side of the shed.

The boat puttered to the edge of the tub, before slowing and finally turning sideways.

"Success," Dad clapped. Smiling at Fred he reached around his shoulder. "You're a natural son!"

Fred smiled. Together they set watching the boat churn through the water. Fred had been calm by the pond, but there was something to be said to be standing with his Dad watching the boat.

"You know," Dad commented, "I don't think we say it enough, but your Mum and I are proud of you, Fred."

Fred couldn't recall the last time his Dad had said his name. It was good to hear.

Dad frowned, "We definitely don't say it enough." Reaching up, Dad wiped tears out of his eyes. Fred hadn't even realized they were there. Dad wrapped him in his arms and Fred felt his tension about what was coming finally fade.

Together, they held on tight as the little boat continued to putter away in the shed.

When he finally pulled away, Dad frowned, "I don't know when you became taller than me, but its not fair."

Fred chuckled weekly at the joke. "Must be luck."

Dad smirked, "I'm sure." Reaching down to grab the boat, he cast a quick Finite. "We best be going inside before your Mum gets worried."

…o0o…

The next morning Fred was awoken before sunrise by pounding on his door.

"Fred Weasley!" Mum screeched, "Your Gran is here to get you! You best be up and ready in ten minutes! Answer me if you don't want me coming in there, young man!"

Fred groaned, "Yes, ma'am."

"Lucky you," George yawned.

As Mum heavily trotted down the stairs, Fred wondered if it was too late to beg Hermione to take him to France.

A/N: Hope everyone enjoyed this feel good chapter in celebration of the twins b-day! The next chapter things will go a little crazy again (it is the World Cup, after all). Hope you enjoyed reading, and thank you for all the reviews!

Also, would anyone be willing to make a picture for the story? I'm tired of having it blank, but I don't want to just copy and past something else that is out there. Let me know. Thanks!