AUTHOR'S NOTES: Here is Chapter 31!
Please Enjoy!
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Harry Potter, and I do not intend to make any money off of this. Harry Potter is the intellectual property of J. K. Rowling , and I take no credit of it whatsoever.
I was also inspired by Demon Eyes Laharl's: THE RED KNIGHT! and also from Random-Fruitcake04's: CHOICES! I hope you check them out as well because they are genuinely very good stories.
Fate
Chapter 31 – Talismans and Schemes
Millicent Bulstrode's POV
November 9th, 1992 (Quidditch Pitch)
"So you're not making any bets?" Theo shouted at Blaise over the crowd. Today was the first Quidditch match of the year, and even Millie was excited about it. Slytherin vs. Gryffindor, we'd better win this! She wasn't a big fan of Quidditch, but she'd be damned if she didn't support her house today!
"No" Blaise shouted over the crowd.
"What about Ron?" Tracey asked. "Did he leave you money to bet for him?"
"No, he didn't" Blaise shouted back, and they were all shocked. Why wouldn't Ron want to make a bet? He loves making bets on Quidditch… "He said that he wants to save up his money from his work!" Blaise clarified. "Also, Lord Greengrass forbid him!" Blaise laughed.
"I should never have mentioned his betting scheme…" Daphne shouted with a frown.
"No, you shouldn't have!" Theo shouted with a scowl. "Now I don't know who to bet on!"
"Just bet on Potter!" Millie shouted. "Ron always does!" Theo gave Millie a smirk, and then he trotted off to make his bet.
"It's a shame that Ron misses the first game of Quidditch" Pansy shouted, she looked extremely bored. I don't blame her… Quidditch is so boring…
"Ron misses all the games of Quidditch" Blaise shouted. "Can we stop shouting?! Just huddle in closer, for Merlin's sake! My voice is getting hoarse…" Millie chuckled and moved in closer. The entire school was in uproar with excitement. "But yeah, the games take place on Saturdays… Ron has to work on every Saturday. Not to mention that he's going to Paris next Friday…"
"I want to go to Paris" Daphne pouted. "I asked father for permission and he denied it… 'Ron needs his absolute focus, Daphne'…" Daphne shook her head and pouted even harder. Millie chuckled at Daphne's imitation of her father. Lord Greengrass does not sound like that!
"Lord Greengrass is right" Pansy said with a comforting smile. "This is an important event for Ron, it's his debut as Lord Greengrass' apprentice."
"I know that" Daphne frowned. "I just want to support him…" Theo suddenly showed up next to Tracey.
"Fucking Ravenclaws!" Theo shouted as soon as he got back. "They wouldn't let me place a bet on Potter because I'm from Slytherin…" Millie felt her temper flare up for a second. Every house is against us… again…
"Who did you bet on then?" Tracey asked him with a faint smile. Millie didn't fail to notice that Tracey put a comforting hand on Theo's shoulder.
"Potter" Theo replied, and everyone just blinked at him. "Little Luna placed the bet for me! Oh, there she is!" The whole group turned to see Luna approaching them with an airy smile. Millie's eyes widened at seeing Luna's clothes. She was covered in Slytherin Green and Silver, and she was wearing a large silver hat on her head that had a green plushy snake encircling it.
"Hello" Luna greeted them with a soft voice. What is she wearing? And why is she wearing it?
"Hi, Luna" they all greeted simultaneously.
"Um… nice hat…" Tracey said, she was trying not to laugh at Ron's little sister. Even I'm having trouble… Merlin, Luna! Why?!
"Oh, I'm glad you like it" Luna smiled airily at Tracey. "Ron isn't here, so I thought I'd support Slytherin in his stead. My house-mates weren't too happy, but I don't care." Millie's laughter died in her throat, she was honestly touched by Luna's gesture. And so were the others.
"Aw!" Daphne and Pansy cooed loudly.
"Luna, you're so precious!" Daphne smiled widely. "Come, sit with me and Pansy!" Luna sat down in between the two older girls with a smile. Pansy and Daphne both cooed and fussed over Luna, and Luna just smiled brightly at them. She's so odd… But I like her! She's certainly brave! And she definitely loves Ron to bits!
"You made Luna bet for you?" Tracey hissed at Theo. Blaise, Theo, Tracey, and Millie were sitting just behind Luna, Daphne, and Pansy.
"I didn't make her…" Theo defended himself with a smirk. "She volunteered…"
"I'm going to tell Ron this" Tracey frowned at him, and Theo's smirk faltered for a second.
"Please don't…" Theo smiled sheepishly. Millie and Blaise chuckled at Theo's sheepish smile. There was a loud whistle all of a sudden, and everyone quieted down. The fourteen players marched onto the pitch and began shaking hands. Millie could feel the tension between the two teams all the up in the stands.
"On the count of three" Madam Hooch's voice boomed. "One… two… three!" Madam Hooch blew her whistle, and the crowd roared up once again. The players shot up into the sky, and Potter shot up higher than everyone. He's looking for the snitch, where's Malfoy? Millie spotted Malfoy showing off the speed of his broom, and she frowned at the git. He needs to find the snitch! Potter has the same broom as him… He literally has no advantage over Potter…
A bludger flew past Potter's head, and Potter barely moved out of the way. The Slytherin's booed as Potter dodged it, and Millie chuckled at Ron's twin brothers trying to save Potter. The boy-who-lived flew with extraordinary skill, even Millie couldn't deny that, but he was barely managing to dodge the bludger that was hounding him.
"Is that bludger jinxed or something?" Tracey asked Theo.
"I think so" Theo chuckled. "It's always Potter, I swear…" There was a loud crack of thunder, and giant drops of water started falling out of the sky. Daphne quickly got out her extendable umbrella and covered Luna.
"Don't want your hat getting ruined" Daphne smiled at Luna. Luna just cuddled closer to Daphne with a smile.
"Now we're both covered" Luna beamed, and then she turned back to the game. The rest of the Slytherins had their own umbrellas ready to go as well. Millie watched with a smirk as Potter barely dodged the bludger again, Ron's brothers were completely focused on protecting Potter.
"Slytherin is in the lead with seventy to nil…" Lee Jordan announced. "C'mon guys… Show those snakes how to actually play Quidditch!" Millie scowled at the announcer, and she saw McGonagall scolding Lee Jordan with a dark frown. And they wonder why we hate them? So damn biased… There was a loud whistle, and the Gryffindor team descended and huddled together. They then began arguing with each other, and Theo frowned at them.
"The one time I place a bet on Potter without Ron, and he fails to find the snitch…" Theo snapped. "I placed twenty Galleons on that bespectacled bastard!" The break ended quickly, and the Gryffindors flew back up. The twins were no longer helping Potter, instead they were focusing on doing their jobs as beaters. Potter was spending his time dodging a rogue bludger…
Potter swirled up into the air, he did zigzags, he barrel-rolled, and he did sharp turns every third second. It looked rather hilarious, and so the entire Slytherin House was laughing at him. This included Millie and her friends, with the exception of Luna. The blonde little girl seemed to be watching Harry as if she was in a trance. Potter then suddenly stopped in front of Malfoy, and Malfoy was no doubt making some stupid remark. And then, WHAM! Potter got hit by the bludger, and Millie gasped. She didn't like Potter, but that looked like it bloody hurt. Potter almost fell off of his broom, and Theo went pale in the face.
"I'm gonna lose twenty Galleons…" Theo whined loudly. Potter might lose his damn life, Theo… But that was not to be the case because Potter suddenly darted towards Malfoy at full speed. Malfoy steered out of the way with a scared look, and Potter suddenly dove downwards.
"He's seen the snitch!" Blaise shouted. "It was right next to Malfoy, I think!" Mille looked to Blaise with a shocked look, and then she turned back to the game. How could Malfoy miss it?! We're gonna lose! Millie watched as Potter suddenly leaped off of his broom and landed on the muddy pitch with a brutal landing. Never mind… Potter's done… But her hope died immediately as Potter lifted his hand up tiredly, and then he passed out. He got the snitch…
November 9th, 1992 (Lunch)
"Isn't Potter just amazing?" Theo smirked as he counted his Galleons. Millie and the girls frowned at him. "I made sixty Galleons!"
"Quiet down" Blaise frowned. "If the other Slytherins find out that you bet on Potter, we'll all get in trouble." Theo smirked at Blaise.
"Repeating my own lessons to me, Blaise?" Theo smirked his trademark smirk. Maybe you should adhere to your own lessons then?
"You don't think they're excluding her, do you?" Daphne asked suddenly, she was shooting looks to the Ravenclaws.
"Who, Luna?" Tracey asked. They all looked to see Luna eating her lunch alone, and Millie suddenly felt really guilty. Luna was still wearing her Slytherin attire…
"I'm going to go over and invite her to eat with us" Daphne said firmly. "Is that alright?"
"Go for it" Blaise nodded. Millie then spotted Padma Patil and her friends approach Luna with smiles.
"Wait" Millie instructed. They all watched as Padma pinched Luna's cheek, and then she sat down to eat with her. "I think she's fine" Millie said with a relieved voice.
"Why is Padma Patil so friendly with Luna?" Pansy asked. That… is a good question.
"Remember when Ron paired up with her during Herbology?" Blaise asked. The girls all nodded, and Millie saw Daphne frown for a split second. "Theo and I overheard them talking after class, Ron asked her to watch over Luna for him."
"It's true" Theo confirmed. "He owes Padma Patil a favor for it, I think. So that's probably why she's so kind to Luna… She's only serving herself."
"Maybe she just likes Luna?" Tracey argued.
"Maybe…" Blaise shrugged. "Either way, its Ron's doing." I didn't know he did that… Millie smiled to herself as she thought about her red-haired friend. He's always looking out for others… Her smile faltered a bit when she remembered Tracey's angry lecture. Ron looked out for everyone, but no one cared enough to lookout for him… I certainly never gave it a second thought. If someone fought Ron, I'd break their face… But I didn't know he was under so much stress…
"Well, I think that was really sweet of him" Daphne smiled happily. "He's so protective, isn't he?" Daphne asked, her cheeks were turning rosy. Everyone smirked at her, but no one said a word.
"Oh shite…" Blaise suddenly muttered, and everyone looked at him with concern.
"What's wrong?" Millie asked him quickly. Blaise jerked his head towards the entrance of the Great Hall, and they all looked over slowly. It was Malfoy, and he was being yelled at by Marcus Flint. I don't see the problem here…
"What's wrong with Malfoy getting an earful?" Tracey asked in a bitter voice.
"He's glaring right at me…" Theo frowned.
"He knows you bet against him" Blaise grit out. "You idiot! Things were finally settling down…"
"Luna bet against him… not me" Theo said softly, and then he smiled slyly. Oh no… He didn't…
"You used her as your patsy?" Daphne snapped, her face went red from rage. Even Millie wanted to grab Theo by his neck and snap him in two!
"He can't go after me for that" Theo shrugged. "Luna is a Ravenclaw… and she volunteered. I did actually refuse her, but she wouldn't have it."
"Theo…" Tracey muttered, she looked shocked. "How could you do that Ron's sister? What if Malfoy goes after her?"
"Goes after her?" Theo asked with a frown. "He is not the Heir of Slytherin, Trace… Relax…"
"I'm telling Ron" Pansy scowled at Theo.
"Go ahead" Theo shrugged. "That's just what he needs… He comes home from working all day, and the first thing you all do is pile more problems onto his plate. Go right ahead…" Theo can be such an arsehole when he wants…
"Theo's right" Blaise shook his head. "If she volunteered, then that was her choice. If Malfoy does go after her in any way, then we'll deal with it. But Theo… Think next time… And you lot, calm down. Ron needs to stay focused… Don't pile more problems onto him." Millie and the girls glared at Theo, but they didn't argue with Blaise. If Malfoy even looks at Luna, I'll break his neck!
Ronald Weasley's POV
November 9th, 1992 (After Dinner)
Ronald stumbled through the fireplace in Snape's office, he was utterly spent. Lord Greengrass had made him play five games, all of which he lost! And then, Ron had solved over fifty puzzles back to back as punishment… He hadn't even eaten all day… Kill me, Merlin! I'm so exhausted…
"Mr. Weasley" came Snape's voice from behind his desk. "You are late." Ron turned around and smiled at Snape, something that made Snape frown. He hated it when Ronald smiled at him…
"Sorry, Sir" Ron began explaining. "I have an important competition coming up in Paris, and Lord Greengrass pushed me to my limit… Is dinner over?" I know it is… I should've accepted Lady Greengrass' offer…
"Dinner is indeed over" Snape said in his low voice. "But I will have some food sent to your dorm…" HUH?! Where is the real Snape, you imposter?!
"Thank you, Sir" Ron beamed, and Snape's frown turned into a scowl.
"Compose yourself" Snape muttered coldly. And there he is! "Make sure you eat before you sleep, I will not have anyone claim that I do not care for those who are under my supervision…" For a second, I thought he was genuinely nice to me…
"I will, goodnight Sir" Ron said with a respectful nod.
"Goodnight, Mr. Weasley" Snape drawled as he began his paperwork again. Ron left the office and went straight to the common room. My legs hurt… my head hurts… I want to sleep!
"Ron! You're back!" Pansy exclaimed as soon as she saw him. Ron gave her a smile, and she suddenly looked concerned. "What happened to you? And why are you so late?"
"Lord Greengrass happened…" Ron yawned.
"My father?" Daphne asked as she approached him. Millie and Tracey approached him right after Daphne, and Tracey gave him a wink.
"Don't worry about me, I'm fine" Ron said dismissively. "Also I need to go to my dorm, Snape is having some food sent in for me…"
"My family didn't feed you?!" Daphne asked in utter shock. I'm digging Lord Greengrass' grave, aren't I?
"They offered, and I declined" Ron smiled at Daphne. "Your family was wonderful as always, Daph." Ron gave her upper right arm a rub, and then he moved towards his dorm. Ron was not at all surprised to hear the girls following him. They've made this a habit…
"There he is!" Theo smirked at Ron as he entered their shared room.
"Hey, Theo" Ron greeted happily. "Hello, Blaise. How was Quidditch?" Ron asked as he sat down on his bed.
"We lost…" Blaise frowned. What? How? Our team is fitted with Nimbus 2001s! Wait, that reminds me… I still haven't taken mine out for a spin… I'll do that tomorrow!
"Potter caught the snitch…" Tracey said bitterly, and she then shot Theo an angry glare. Is she angry at Theo?
"I just made a bet on him… Ron's done that multiple times" Theo defended himself with a smirk. Ah! I get it… She's just upset that we lost and Theo made money off of it. Ron then noticed all of the girls glaring at Theo, and that raised suspicion in Ron's mind. NO! Stop being paranoid… They're my friends… If they have something to tell me, they will.
"Care to tell me how the rest of the game went?" Ron cut the silence. There was a sudden loud crack, and everyone looked to the House-Elf who had just apparated in. "Marty!" Ron greeted his servant happily.
"Master Ronald, it is good to see you in good health!" Marty greeted back, he was holding a platter full of food. "The other Elves wanted to give you scraps from tonight's dinner, Master! But Marty wouldn't let them! Only the best for Master Ronald!" Marty presented the platter to Ron, and Ron took it with a huge smile.
"Thank you, Marty" Ron said gratefully. "You're the best!" Marty looked up with utter joy, his big blue eyes becoming watery.
"Marty lives to serve, Master" Marty bowed deeply. "Thank you!" Marty then turned to Daphne. "Ah! Mistress! It is a joy to behold your beauty!"
"Hello, Marty" Daphne greeted him with a smile. "I am glad to see you so happy."
"Marty is happy, Mistress" Marty bowed to her. "Marty is 'the best', Master Ronald said so himself!" Daphne chuckled a bit. Marty then turned to Ron again. "If Master needs anything, please call Marty!" Ron gave him a firm nod, and then with another crack, Marty was gone. I HAVE A HOUSE-ELF! That's so amazing! I'm like a proper wizard! Like Lord Greengrass!
"A bit too loud for my taste" Theo muttered. "But he is loyal, that's what you really want." Ron frowned at Theo, Marty wasn't loud… Ron shook his head and began eating. So hungry… Blaise walked over and took a glazed bun off of Ron's platter. Ron didn't mind, but the girls did.
"Hey!" Millie snapped at Blaise. "That's Ron's food! He hasn't eaten all day, Blaise!" Blaise turned to Ron and cocked an eyebrow.
"Do you mind?" Blaise asked, and Ron shook his head. "There you go…" Blaise said to Millie, and then he bit into the bun.
"Ron, don't give them your food…" Pansy scolded lightly.
"You can have some too, I don't mind" Ron offered. I can just call Marty for more… I don't get what the big deal is? The girls gave him odd looks, and Ron could swear that they were looking at him with guilt and pity… They're being weird again! Why do they keep being so nice to me?! I mean, more than usual… "So, how did the game go?" Ron asked Blaise, he kept his eyes on the girls though. "Did Malfoy fail miserably?"
"He did…" Blaise sighed. "The snitch was right behind his ear at one point, and he missed it…"
"Potter broke his arm, and he still caught it!" Theo laughed. Harry got hurt?!
"What?" Ron asked Theo, his face showed too much concern for Theo's liking.
"Yeah" Theo frowned. "And then, Lockhart tried to fix his arm…"
"Shite…" Ron muttered. Harry's probably dead…
"It was an honest mistake!" Pansy fumed. "Why would Professor Lockhart intentionally remove Potter's bones?!"
"WHAT?!" Ron snapped. "I need to go see Harry! Is he in the Hospital Wing?!" Ron stood up and moved towards the exit, but the girls blocked his way.
"He's not allowed visitors…" Daphne smiled faintly. She hated the concern Ron was showing for Potter, those Gryffindors didn't deserve it! But she wasn't going to punish Ron for it. She had promised herself to never do that again…
"Oh… Is he alright though?" Ron asked her.
"He's fine" Tracey said casually. "Plus, it was just the bones in his arm…"
"Lockhart is a menace…" Ron muttered as he sat back down.
"No arguments here" Blaise agreed. The girls all frowned, but they didn't say anything.
November 10th, 1992 (Crack of Dawn)
"Ronald… Dear boy… Wake up…" came a familiar voice, and Ron's eyes opened slowly. Ron looked down and saw the Sorting Hat sitting on his chest. "Morning, Ronald…" Ron jerked up in shock and covered himself with his blanket. What the fuck?! The Hat toppled off of his chest and fell on the bed. "Alright… perhaps that was not the wisest tactic I could have employed" the Hat muttered to itself. Ron picked the Hat up and put it on his head.
"What are you doing here?! What's the time?!" Ron asked, his heart was beating hard.
"Calm down, dear boy. And it is the crack of dawn…" the Hat said softly. "Ronald, I must speak with you! There has been another attack!" It took Ron a second to realize what the Hat had meant, and when he did, Ron's eyes almost popped out of his head.
"The Heir of Slytherin struck again?! Who was the victim?! Was it my sister?!" Ron asked in utter panic.
"The Heir did indeed strike again, but your sister was not the victim… Relax, Ronald. Please. This is important, you must listen to me!"
"I'm listening, Hat… Go on…"
"Do you remember when I couldn't tell you something about another student? It was back when the term first started…" the Hat spoke quickly. Ron did remember, and he scolded himself for forgetting all about it!
"The other student is the Heir, aren't they?" Ron asked, his heartbeat was speeding into dangerous levels.
"I am not sure… But they are a Parselmouth as well!" the Hat replied.
"Shite! They have to be the Heir then, who is it?! You can tell me that, right?!"
"I can now, students are in grave danger! My seal has been lifted, dear boy! Harry James Potter is the other Parselmouth!" the Hat said. Ron's heart just stopped, and he held his breath involuntarily.
"Harry? No… No, you're wrong…" Ron muttered. "You have to be wrong… Harry is a good person…"
"I am not accusing young Potter of anything, Ronald. I just felt the need to give you a warning…"
"A warning?" Ron asked, his head was spinning.
"Albus talked to me a few moments ago… He wanted to learn of anything I may know… I told him about Harry, but I kept you a secret" the Hat replied.
"Why me, and not Harry? And where is Dumbledore now?"
"Albus is back at the Hospital Wing, he is attending to Colin Creevey…"
"Colin… The Muggle-Born with a camera…" Ron remembered. "I took a photo for him once…" Ron shook his head, his chest felt heavy for some reason.
"Ronald, please stay with me. Colin was found petrified… These attacks resemble the attacks that took place fifty years ago… The Chamber was opened fifty years ago and…" Ron suddenly cut the Hat off.
"Tom Riddle Jnr…" Ron said absent-mindedly, and the Hat stopped immediately.
"How…?" the Hat started but stopped. It then began going through Ron's memories, and it sighed deeply when it finished. "Ronald… What do you think you're doing?"
"Excuse me?"
"That Tome… Don't use it, I am begging you. The Dark Arts have corrupted stronger wizards than you, dear boy. Abandon this road… That is all I will say on the matter…" Ron felt his cheeks flush crimson at the Hat's words. "It appears you already know much about Tom Riddle Jnr… What you don't know is that Tom Riddle Jnr eventually named himself Lord Voldemort!" Ron just blinked, he couldn't even begin to process all of this.
"I need a break… I can't think… My head feels light…" Ron muttered as he rubbed his face. His mouth was becoming dry.
"Forgive me, dear boy. I feel the need to tell you this… Both you and young Potter were attacked by Voldemort, and now you can both speak Parseltongue… I don't understand how, but there has to be a reason for it… You, young Potter, and Voldemort are connected somehow…"
"Connected…?" Ron muttered, he was beginning to sweat… He was connected to the Dark Lord? What did that even mean? Tom became you-know-who?! Ron couldn't breathe… His chest was starting to tighten, and he felt bile rising in his throat.
"Ronald… calm yourself… You're hyperventilating. It's ok, listen to my voice. I'm right here… I won't leave you… Breathe…"
"I CAN'T BREATHE! YOU-KNOW-WHO AND I ARE CONNECTED?! THE HEIR ATTACKED COLIN!"
"Ronald…" Ron threw the Hat off of his head, and then Ron fell out of his bed. I can't breathe! Why am I connected to the Dark Lord?! Harry's the Heir, isn't he?! Merlin… Help me…
"Ron?" came Blaise's voice, and then Blaise moved his curtains and saw Ron on the floor. "RON!"
"What the fuck?" came Theo's distorted voice.
Ron's blood pounded in his ears, his heart thumped against his chest painfully, his hands shook violently, and a cold sweat ran down his spine. He couldn't see, he couldn't breathe, his mind raced with thoughts of the Dark Lord and the attack that left him permanently scarred. They were connected… The most evil wizard in existence was somehow connected to Ron… It was too much… He needed a break… He needed to get away from his fucked up life for just a damn second! Harry can't be the Heir! He can't! Ron heaved, but no vomit came out. His eyes burned, and he heaved again.
"Ron?!" came Blaise's panicked voice. "Ron, what's wrong?!" Ron looked up at Blaise and tried to tell him, but no words came out. I'm fucking dying… Help me! Ron dry-heaved again, he could feel the tears running down his cheeks.
"Help him, you buffoons!" the Sorting Hat yelled.
"What the fuck is the Sorting Hat doing here?!" came Theo's voice.
"Do as I say, put Ronald on the bed" the Hat ordered. "He is having a panic attack… Hurry!" Ron felt strong arms grab him and haul him up on the bed. Ron lay on his back, and that made it even harder to breathe! I'm dying… I need air… Ron suddenly felt extremely hot, it felt as if he was in an oven.
"We need to take him to Pomfrey!" Theo exclaimed.
"No" came the Hat's voice. "There was another Chamber attack! They will blame Ron if they see him in such a state! This will pass, sit him up so he can breathe!" What the fuck?! I need the Hospital Wing! Fuck… Ron was lifted up by his mates, and then he was held in position. Ron bent forward as he gasped for air… It was getting easier. Ron felt someone rubbing his back, and that reminded him of Luna. She rubbed my back when I saw her in a vision… Luna… Ron's breathing was returning, and he focused on his little sister. The thought of her was getting him through this…
"It's okay, mate" came Theo's voice, it was less distorted. "We're right here, just breathe…" Ron nodded and just kept breathing. Just breathe… I can make it… I'm safe…
November 10th, 1992 (Just After Breakfast)
Ron was lying on his side, and he felt drained. Theo and Blaise hadn't even left for breakfast, they had stayed by his side the entire time. Ron was extremely grateful, but he just didn't have the strength to show it. The Hat had suddenly disappeared at some point, no doubt it went back to Dumbledore's office.
"So, you and the Hat are friends?" Theo whispered to Ron. Ron just nodded, he was trying to think of a believable story.
"How often do you talk?" Blaise asked softly, it sounded really weird. Blaise never speaks softly… Concentrate, Ron! Don't give away anything… So tired though…
"Sometimes…" Ron managed. "Like three or four times…"
"Okay, just tell us about it whenever you're ready" Theo whispered. There was a knock at the door, and Blaise went to answer it.
"Theo, close the curtains and get out here" Blaise ordered. "We can't let the girls see him like this…" Theo got up and did as Blaise asked, but Ron didn't understand why the girls couldn't see him. Both of them always argue that we can't leave the girls out… Why hide things now? Ron's eyes began fluttering, and he forced them to open. Ron suddenly heard the door open.
"Where were you guys?" came Pansy's voice.
"We were in our room, we weren't hungry" Blaise lied.
"Not hungry?" Daphne asked in a haughty tone, her voice made Ron smile to himself. She doesn't take anything at face-value… "When is Ron not hungry?" Hey!
"Where is Ron?" Tracey asked.
"He's asleep…" Theo chuckled, but it was a shaky chuckle.
"It's morning… We should wake him up" came Millie's voice. Ron then heard some quick footsteps. "Theo, get out of the way…"
"I can't" Theo said firmly. "Ron sleeps naked!" OI! What a bastard! Ron struggled to sit up, but he just fell back on his bed. Ron looked down and saw that he was indeed shirtless. When did I take off my shirt? Theo and Blaise saw my scars… Ron was too tired to even feel ashamed.
"He does?" Daphne gasped. NO! Fuck…
"Yep!" Theo said. "Still want to see him?"
"Um… no…" Daphne muttered. "Can you guys please wake him?"
"Sure… but you have to leave first" Blaise said firmly.
"What's going on here?" Pansy sighed. "Blaise, I know when you're lying. You talk in a really angry tone whenever you lie…"
"I'm not angry" Blaise grit out. "Leave… now!" When did I become a better liar than Blaise?
"Tell us what's wrong, or we'll go through you" Millie snapped. There was a short silence, and then Ron heard feet shuffling again.
"Don't!" Theo shouted. "He had a panic attack, and he needs rest!" An eerie silence engulfed the room.
"Theo…" Blaise sighed. Shite…
"They were gonna go in…" Theo shot back. "You all need to leave… We won't ask again!"
"He had a panic attack?" Pansy whimpered. "Why?"
"It doesn't matter… Please leave" Blaise said firmly. "No more arguments, if he wakes up… Look, please just leave."
"I want to see him…" Daphne said softly.
"No, you don't…" Theo muttered. "Daphne, take the girls and go! If you want to help Ron, this is what you have to do… And don't tell a soul!"
"We can take care of him" Blaise added. Ron listened as the girls left slowly, and he was sure that Daphne was the last one through the door. Blaise and Theo then came in through the curtains.
"You sent them away…" Ron muttered.
"They would have seen your scars…" Blaise said tiredly.
"You saw them…" Ron said, his eyes closing slowly. I'm so thirsty… and hungry…
"Yeah, mate" Theo said softly. "I think they're brilliant…" Ron smiled faintly at that.
"Brilliant…" Ron muttered, and then darkness took him.
Hermione Granger's POV
November 10th, 1992 (Myrtle's Bathroom)
"Poor Colin…" Neville muttered. Both Hermione and Neville had overheard Professor McGonagall and Professor Flitwick talking about Colin this morning. Hermione felt her heart clench for the little boy, Colin may have been odd but he was the sweetest thing… I hate this Heir of Slytherin person… I can't wait for them to be expelled!
"Neville, pass me leeches…" Hermione said softly. Neville passed her the bag of leeches with some difficulty. They were currently in a small cubicle within Moaning Myrtle's bathroom.
"Ron wasn't at breakfast this morning…" Neville muttered. Hermione tightened her grip on the bag, but she didn't say anything. "You don't think that's weird? He wasn't at dinner either…"
"Neither was Harry" Hermione shot back. Neville looked at her with a furrowed brow.
"Hermione" Neville said firmly. "Don't compare Harry to Ron…"
"Neville, stop it…" Hermione turned to him, and they were literally inches apart. "I'm going to prove to you two that Ron is not the Heir…" Hermione was about to bombard Neville but the door to the girls' bathroom opened suddenly. Both Hermione and Neville held their breaths.
"Guys, are you in here?" came Harry's voice. Hermione quickly opened the door to the cubicle they were using.
"Harry, in here…" Hermione said quickly, and Harry ran over. Harry squeezed into the cubicle, and then he locked the door behind him. It's too cramped in here… Hermione felt her face flush, she was trapped in a cubicle with two boys… Relax, Hermione! We need to brew the Polyjuice Potion in secret! That's all!
"Guys, Colin Creevey was attacked last night" Harry said, his voice was laced with guilt.
"We know, mate…" Neville sighed, and Hermione felt his breath on the back of her neck. It's too cramped in here! "We overheard the Professors talking this morning…"
"That's why we already started on the Potion" Hermione added as she stirred the potion. The cauldron was sitting on a toilet seat. "How did you find us?"
"I went to the common room and you weren't there" Harry explained. "So I tried here… Is Myrtle around?"
"No, thank God!" Hermione exclaimed as she rolled her eyes.
"Thank Merlin you mean…" Neville chuckled, and Hermione shot him a dark look. "Sorry…"
"Guys, Dobby came to visit me this morning!" Harry exclaimed suddenly, and both Hermione and Neville faced him. Harry then told them that Dobby was the one who had sealed the barrier on Ron and him. Dobby was also behind the bludger attack, and he had done it to send Harry home. Harry finally finished by telling them that the Chamber had indeed been opened before!
"That means it can't be Ron!" Hermione said excitedly. "It must be Malfoy… His father taught him how to open the Chamber, just like he did fifty years ago!"
"Lucius Malfoy isn't even fifty years old" Neville argued. "This doesn't prove Ron's innocence." Hermione felt righteous anger burn in her chest.
"Why are you trying to blame Ron for this?!" Hermione shrieked, and both boys covered their ears. "He's my friend!"
"He's our friend too" Harry said in a calming tone, but that just annoyed her even more.
"It doesn't sound like he is…" Hermione grit out.
"We want to make sure, Hermione…" Neville said softly. "If Ron is innocent, then we can protect him…"
"Protect him?" Hermione asked with narrowed eyes.
"From the rumors…" Harry said softly. "Many other Gryffindors are saying that he is the Heir. If we know the truth, then we can tell them that he isn't." They've planned this… And they never told me…
"You've been plotting this?" Hermione asked, her voice was bitter.
"There are no plots against him, Hermione" Neville said firmly. "People are getting hurt! Colin got hurt! We can't make mistakes on this!"
"Malfoy is still the primary suspect" Harry added quickly. "We're just exonerating Ron's name!"
"Ahem…" came a cough from behind Harry, and Harry jumped away in shock. Hermione had to cover the cauldron with her own body in order to save it. "What are you three doing?" Moaning Myrtle asked, and Hermione clenched her jaw. Great… Now she's here too!
"Nothing!" Neville exclaimed.
"I don't believe you" Myrtle moaned. "But of course, lie to the dead girl." Myrtle then made a mewling sound and floated out of the cubicle.
"Harry, follow her" Hermione said quickly. "She'll tell people!" Harry all but ran right through the door.
"Myrtle! Wait!" Harry called. Myrtle turned around as Hermione came out of the cubicle. "Please don't tell anyone?"
"Oh… Another secret?" Myrtle giggled. "That's two handsome boys who have asked me to keep quiet now…" Two?
"Who else asked you?" Harry asked slowly.
"I'm not telling…" Myrtle giggled. "He promised to visit me again."
"Did he have red-hair?" Neville asked quickly, and Hermione hated the excitement in his tone. He wants it to be Ron… I just know it!
"He didn't not have red hair" Myrtle said as she floated to Neville. What? Hermione felt her heart stop for a second.
"So he did have red hair…" Harry muttered, and Hermione shook her head. No! No, Ron is not the Heir!
"You're lying!" Hermione yelled at Myrtle, and Myrtle gasped. And then she began howling and flew out of the bathroom in tears.
"Hermione?!" Neville all but shouted. "Why did you do that?!"
"Ron is not the Heir!" Hermione shrieked again, and her eyes stung.
"Then why was he in here?!" Neville yelled back. "Why did he ask Myrtle to lie?! Mrs. Norris died just down the hallway from here! Where was he during dinner and breakfast?!"
"Harry, you can't believe this" Hermione pleaded as she turned to her black-haired friend. His distant look broke her heart. No… He believes its Ron as well…
"He was here…" Harry just muttered. He looked as devastated as her. "Why was he here?"
"It could have been Percy! Or one of the twins!" Hermione suggested, but she knew it wasn't. Hermione was a smart girl, and she knew that Ron had a habit of being in places that he shouldn't be in… Why is he always 'exploring' the castle? A tiny voice in the back of her head asked her. Why was Ron on the seventh floor? Hermione sniffled as she looked down at her feet. Ron really was here… wasn't he?
Ronald Weasley's POV
November 10th, 1992 (Just before Lunch)
Ron looked at his reflection, and he grimaced. He looked like hell… His hair was still wet from his shower, but it felt cool on his head and it relaxed him. His eyes had black bags under them, and his pale skin highlighted them. Ron's long nap hadn't helped a bit… If anything, he felt even worse than before. At least I have the strength to move around now… Ron exited the bathroom in a daze, and he immediately saw Blaise and Theo doing their homework together.
"Need help?" Ron asked softly. Blaise and Theo looked at him, and they both frowned.
"No" Blaise said firmly. "Can you worry about yourself for once?"
"What does that mean?" Ron asked in utter confusion.
"Nothing…" Blaise sighed. Hippogriff dung!
"Lunch will be served soon…" Theo joined in. "Ron, are you up for some food?"
"Yeah" Ron smiled. "I'm sorry you two missed breakfast because of me…"
"It's nothing, Ron" Blaise said. "But when we get back, I want to know why the Sorting Hat was here. And I want to know what it said that set you off so badly, is that fair?"
"It is" Ron nodded. "When we get back, I'll tell you guys everything." Except for the Entity, or anything to do with my visions!
"The girls too?" Theo asked.
"The girls too" Ron replied. "Now let's go… I'm starving." Ron and the boys left their room, and they traveled down to the common room. Ron spotted the girls sitting in front of the fire, and they all looked anxious. "Hello" Ron greeted them with a faint smile. They all turned to him immediately.
"Ron!" Daphne all but shouted, and then she jumped him. He almost collapsed due to her full weight on him. Ron braced his legs and held his footing. He gave a soft chuckle as he hugged her back tightly.
"I'm okay…" Ron whispered, and she tightened her hug.
"Ahem… my turn?" came Tracey's voice. Daphne let go of Ron and frowned at Tracey. Tracey gave her a wink and then she hugged Ron gently. "You had us worried…" Ron hugged her back, and then Millie and Pansy sandwiched him. Ron's ears burned due to being hugged by three girls at the same time.
"Not here…" Blaise whispered. "The other Slytherins are watching… Let's talk on the way to the Great Hall." They all departed right after that, and the girls were just staring at Ron.
"What?" Ron asked.
"You look like shite" Tracey replied bluntly, and the other three girls frowned at her.
"I feel worse…" Ron smiled. I'm so hungry… My stomach hurts…
"He just needs some food in him" Theo said firmly. "Once he's eaten, he'll be fine."
"Ron, do you want me to dry your hair?" Pansy asked. "I'm great with hair-grooming spells!"
"It's actually helping me Pans, it's keeping me cool" Ron replied softly, and Pansy gave him a nod. "But you can make my hair before I go to Paris" Ron offered, he felt bad about refusing her. Pansy beamed at him.
"Really?!" Pansy asked gleefully. "Okay! I'll do my best, and you'll look really stylish! I promise!" Ron laughed at her enthusiasm.
"Deal" Ron laughed.
"Ron" Daphne said softly. "Is my father pushing you too hard?" She looked extremely guilty, and Ron knew that he had to stop her thinking like that immediately. It's the Hat that pushed me over the edge… Lord Greengrass has been nothing but good to me!
"No, you're father has been nothing but amazing!" Ron said firmly. "I have… other problems…"
"You'd better tell us" Millie ordered.
"I will, after lunch" Ron promised. "Daphne, look at me." Daphne looked at him sheepishly. "Your father didn't do a thing, alright?" Daphne nodded meekly. They entered the Great Hall and went to their usual seats, but Daphne sat in Theo's spot. Theo didn't say a word, instead he sat down with Tracey. The food was already on the table, and Ron dug right in. No one said a word as he demolished his food. Then something clicked in Ron's head suddenly… Harry!
Ron looked to the Gryffindor table, and he saw the Trio looking right at him. Hermione looked away immediately, but Harry and Neville just kept looking at him. Yeah, I know… I look like shite… Ron stared back at Harry, and then Ron decided something. Harry was not the person behind these attacks. He was in the Hospital Wing last night… There's no way he attacked Colin with a boneless arm! He's my friend… I owe him the benefit of the doubt… Ron then looked at Neville, and Neville was glaring at him. Again?! What's his problem with me? Ron looked back to his meal, he was still hungry.
"Hi, Ron" came an airy voice, and Ron smiled widely.
"Luna" Ron turned to look at his little sister. "What's going on? Come, sit with us!" Luna smiled at him, and then she wedged herself in-between Ron and Daphne.
"You look tired, Ron" Luna hummed. "Are you sleeping well?"
"I am" Ron lied. "Don't worry about me, Luna. Tell me, how are things in Ravenclaw?" Luna blinked at him, and he swallowed. Damn that insight of hers…
"Things are okay" Luna smiled suddenly. "Padma helped me make protection charms for all of you… Because of the attacks." Luna then reached into her flowery bag and pulled out Talismans made out of Turnips and copper lines. What the…? "These will keep you all safe" Luna said in a sagely voice.
"Aw!" Daphne cooed as she hugged Luna from the side, and Ron was shocked to see this. When did they become so close? Ron picked up a Talisman, and then he put it around his neck.
"Do I look dashing?" Ron asked Luna with a smile.
"No…" Luna hummed and smiled. "You look terrible actually… You should sleep more, Ron." Ron's friends stifled their laughs at him, while Luna just looked at him innocently. I walked into that one… "Ron, can I have your pudding?"
"Of course" Ron smiled, he knew how much Luna loved pudding. Ron's friends put on their Talismans for Luna's sake, and Blaise only did it after Pansy, Millie, and Tracey kicked his shins. Luna was extremely happy that they were all 'safe' now. Lunch ended shortly after that, and Ron and his friends made their way out of the Great Hall. Ron decided that he was going to give his condolences to the Trio due to Colin's recent attack. But he was stopped by Snape before he even got out.
"Mr. Weasley" Snape hissed. "Why are you walking around the school looking like… that?" Snape sneered at Ron. Give me a damn break…
"Sir…" Ron started.
"And what is that ridiculous thing around your neck?" Snape asked icily. My sister gave me that!
"It's a protection charm" Ron replied with forced politeness.
"It's a turnip…" Snape bit out. "Take that off, and go wash up. You are a student of Slytherin, at least act like one!" With that, Snape billowed away. Ron gritted his teeth, but he didn't say a word. What the fuck is his problem?!
"Ron, let's just go" Daphne said softly, she then grabbed his gloved hand and dragged him behind her. I missed the Trio as well! Damnit…
November 10th, 1992 (After Lunch)
"The Sorting Hat and you are… friends?" Tracey asked with a confused look. They were in the boys' shared room again.
"Yes…" Ron replied. "That Hat was intrigued with me after my sorting… We generally talk about random things like history and so forth…" Is there a bigger liar than me in this damn school?!
"Merlin…" Daphne muttered. "Ron that's… unheard of…"
"Well, it was a secret friendship" Ron said slowly. "I asked it about the Chamber last night… And it told me a few things…"
"Tell us" Millie said as she leaned forward. Here I go!
"The Hat told me more about Tom Riddle Jnr" Ron started, and his friends all went wide-eyed. "He didn't die in the war… He is the Dark Lord…" Ron looked around at his friends, and they were dead silent.
"Merlin's saggy balls…" Theo muttered after a few seconds. "My investigator was right… He opened the Chamber, didn't he?"
"Yes…" Ron replied. "The Hat thinks I'm a Parselmouth because of him attacking me… It 'connected' us somehow… That's why I had a panic attack…" Ron decided to keep Harry's Parseltongue powers to himself, he didn't want any trouble for his friend. Harry is no Dark Wizard! Someone else is the Heir of Slytherin! And I will find them…
"Connected… to the Dark Lord?" Pansy whimpered. Ron simply nodded at her.
"That would be enough to give me a panic attack as well" Blaise sighed. "Merlin, Ron… What are we going to do?"
"I'm going to find this Heir…" Ron said firmly. "And I'm going to stop them before they ruin this school!" There was a short pause amongst the friends.
"Well, I'm going to help" Daphne said suddenly. The rest of the group joined in, and Ron smiled at his friends. He had truly been blessed by the Hat, hadn't he? I should thank the Hat properly… It's the reason why I have such great friends!
November 15th, 1992 (Before Breakfast)
Ron looked in the mirror and smirked, he looked amazing! Pansy had given him a new hair-cut, gelled his hair, and made him look rather stylish. He had never thought that he could pull off such a sophisticated look, but Pansy was clearly a miracle worker. His thick red hair was short on the sides and the back, but Pansy had kept his hair longer on top of his head. She had then used some hair-gel to give it a shine, and then she had swept it back. It definitely looked better than his messy hairstyle from before!
"It's an undercut!" Pansy squealed. "It was voted as the number one 'Desirable Hair-cut for a Bachelor to Have' by Witch Weekly Magazine this month!" Lockhart's grinning face flashed in Ron's mind…
"Thank you, Pans" Ron turned around and smiled. "You're amazing!" I love this new cut! Pansy blushed and giggled.
"I know" Pansy said arrogantly, she looked extremely pleased with herself. She has every reason to be, I look drop-dead gorgeous! I should probably never say that out loud… "C'mon, let's go show the others!" Pansy then quickly ushered him out of the room and took him to the common room. There weren't many people around due to how early it was, but the few that were there seemed to approve of his cleaner look.
"Tada!" Ron exclaimed to his friends, and they looked slack-jawed.
"Woah!" Millie laughed.
"That's an undercut from Witch Weekly!" Tracey squealed at Pansy.
"Looking sharp, mate" Blaise smiled and nodded. It feels good!
"Ron, you look amazing!" Daphne said excitedly. "My father will be so pleased!" Ron felt his cheeks warm up a bit, and he wasn't sure why. Everyone else was gushing at him, but it just felt different when Daphne did it…
"Thanks…" Ron smiled.
"Is he blushing?!" Theo laughed.
"Shut up…" Ron frowned at him. "I have to go…" Ron quickly turned around to face Pansy. "Thank you again, Pansy! I'll bring you back a souvenir!"
"Bring back a trophy instead" Pansy smiled. Ron gave her a firm nod, and then he began making his way out of the common room.
"Good luck!" Ron's friends called after him.
"Don't need it!" Ron yelled back with a smirk, and then he was out. He walked straight to Snape's office, and he knocked on the door lightly.
"Come in" Snape's voice came, and Ron entered the office.
"Good morning, Sir" Ron smiled softly at the Potions Master. He's always doing paper-work… Must be a busy job being a Professor!
"Good morning…" Snape said slowly as he looked up. Yeah, I look presentable! Take that! "You clean up well… It is a shame you don't do it often…" And he still managed to hurt me…
"I will from now on" Ron kept his composure. "I am a Slytherin, and I'll act like it." Snape looked at him for a few seconds, and then he gave a curt nod.
"Good luck today, Mr. Weasley" Snape said softly. "Do Slytherin proud."
"I will, Sir" Ron nodded firmly, and then he went to the fireplace. He grabbed some floo powder and called for Greengrass Manor. When the fire blazed green, Ron went through.
"He's here!" came Astoria's happy voice as soon as Ron stepped through the green flames. "Woah…" Astoria stopped with a shocked look on her face. "Ron?!"
"Hello, Tori" Ron smiled at her, this was the first time he was calling her Tori out loud. "Do you like my new look?" Ron smiled, he knew she liked it. She nodded vigorously.
"Welcome back, Ron" Lady Greengrass greeted him with a wide smile. "And don't you look dashing!" Ron blushed a little, he felt really good today! "Come along quickly, I have your uniform ready in one of the guest rooms." Ron nodded and followed her. She led him upstairs and into a hallway with at least a dozen doors. "It's in here, now get changed quickly" she instructed him. "My Lord Husband is coming with a Portkey from the Ministry, we will be leaving as soon as he is here."
"Thank you, Lady Greengrass" Ron smiled, and then he entered the guest bedroom at the end of the hall. The room was spacious, and had emerald green walls. There was a comfortable looking bed, some expensive looking seats, a dresser, and a large mirror next to the dresser. Ron saw his uniform lying on the bed, and he moved to it. He put it on carefully, making sure that he didn't crumple the prestigious looking uniform. Then he moved in front of the mirror to see what he looked like in it.
The uniform consisted of fitted black dress pants, shiny black dress shoes, a white dress shirt, a thin black tie, two black leather gloves, and a tailored black blazer. It looked extremely… Muggle. But Ron loved it, and he felt an odd sense of authority while wearing it. Ron looked at the black tie with a smile, and he saw the Greengrass Family coat of arms on it. A white sword with a green serpent wrapped around it… I wonder if we Weasleys have a coat of arms! Ron then spotted the Greengrass coat of arms on his blazer, it was right over his heart. Ron did the buttons up on his blazer, and he stood up taller. Yeah… he felt powerful in this uniform.
"Marty" Ron called, and there was a loud crack behind him.
"Master, how may Marty help you?" Marty asked with a deep bow.
"Take my school uniform back to Hogwarts" Ron said firmly, his uniform making him feel more authoritative. "Have it washed and laid on my bed" Ron added quickly.
"At once, Master" Marty said with joy. And then with a loud crack, Marty was gone. Merlin! That felt really awesome! I wonder if this is how Lord Greengrass feels all the time! There was a knock on the door, and Ron quickly hid his childish glee. Ron shot one more look at his reflection, and then he exited the room. Lady Greengrass was waiting for him outside, and she beamed at him.
"You look wonderful!" Lady Greengrass smiled happily, and Ron smiled back. She then reached over and fixed his tie to the center of his shirt. "There, now let's go. My husband is downstairs." She led Ron back down, and they ran into Lord Greengrass and Astoria who were both waiting by the stairs.
"Ah, Ronald" Lord Greengrass smiled, and then he nodded at Ron in approval. "New hair-cut… It suits you."
"It was on Witch Weekly" Astoria giggled. Oh no…
"I didn't know you read Witch Weekly, Ronald" Lord Greengrass smirked.
"It is a literary masterpiece, my Lord" Ron joked, and Lady Greengrass chuckled.
"I'm glad to see you have your wits today" Lord Greengrass smiled. "Now, let's get a move on. Everyone outside, now!" Ron was surprised by the fact that Lady Greengrass and Astoria were coming along, but he didn't mind. Once they stepped outside, Lord Greengrass led them to a patch of grass that had a single boot sitting on it. "Ever traveled via Portkey, Ronald?"
"No, my Lord" Ron replied.
"Love, you take Astoria's hands" Lord Greengrass told his wife. "Ronald, grab my arm." Ron did as he was told, and then they stood around the boot. "On the count of three, everyone grab the boot. Ronald, don't let go of my arm. Tori, hold your mother's hand tightly. One… two… three!" They all grabbed the boot, and Ron instantly felt like he was being pulled in with a hook by the back of his neck. He jerked forward and his whole body felt like it was in a tornado, and he even saw bright lights flashing all around him. And then he was on solid earth again and he almost fell over, but Lord Greengrass caught him. What the fuck just happened?! Ron's head was spinning, and he felt a bit sick.
"You're okay, love" Lady Greengrass said in a soft voice to her daughter. Tori looked completely out of it. Glad I'm not the only one… Ugh… Floo is so much better!
"Easy, Ronald" Lord Greengrass said as he rubbed Ron's back.
"I'm alright…" Ron said, and then he shook his head. Nope… I'm not alright…
November 15th, 1992 (Paris Competition)
"Tell me, Ronald" Lord Greengrass said. "How are things at school? And I'm not referring to your grades." Ron and his mentor were currently sitting together alongside the other competitors and their mentors. Lady Greengrass and Astoria were watching from the stands, and Ron saw Astoria waving at him. He waved back and smiled at her, she was adorable! Ron was also ignoring the French speaking announcer, mostly because he didn't understand a word that the man was saying.
"The school is on edge, my Lord" Ron answered honestly, he would never dare lie to Lord Greengrass. He probably already knows… Lying to him could get me into trouble! "Ever since Colin Creevey's attack, all the students are walking around in groups. The first years are terrified, and the teachers are on high alert. There has been a sudden increase in the trading of protection charms and talismans… It is not a good environment to be in…"
"And my daughter, how is she?" Lord Greengrass asked.
"She is well, and seldom out of my sight" Ron answered truthfully. Ron had been watching over his friends like a hawk! Except for the Trio… I think they're avoiding me…
"Good, keep your eyes on her" Lord Greengrass ordered.
"You don't even need to ask me, my Lord" Ron replied. "I'd never let anything happen to her…" Lord Greengrass smiled faintly, and Ron missed it because he was watching the announcer. "What is he saying, my Lord?" Ron asked his mentor.
"Nothing you need to worry about…" Lord Greengrass smirked. "All you need to know is that the reward for winning is two hundred Galleons. Plus the three hundred Galleon bonus I will give you… If you win." Ron did his best to keep his composure, but there was a greedy glint in his eyes. He wanted that money… "When you win, Ronald… There will be some reporters… You will tell them of my patronage, do you understand?"
"Yes, my Lord" Ron smirked. I get paid, and he gets recognition for training a winner… So we both win!
November 15th, 1992 (Paris Competition, Final Match)
The last two games had been… boring. Ron was shocked at how simple minded his fellow twelve year-olds were in chess… He knew that he was above-average, but he wasn't that good! Maybe it was just all the grueling training sessions with Lord Greengrass finally paying off? Either way, Ron had decimated his previous two opponents. Now he was facing a girl named Olivia Jones from Beauxbatons Academy of Magic, and she was visibly worried. Ron smiled at her politely, and her lips twitched into a frown.
She was playing white, so she made the first move. Ron decided to wait and see what she was capable of, she was clearly good enough to make it into the final match! Ron moved his pawns into a defensive position in order to utilize his stronger pieces early on in the game. She had a similar idea, and the first five minutes of the game were dreadfully boring. And then, it got bloody…
She seemingly lost her patience with Ron's endless smirk and slow playstyle, and she launched an attack. Ron was taken by surprise for a second, but then he quickly relaxed. He had the better positioning on the board, and so he could easily push her into a corner. Ron became aggressive in his playstyle, and he didn't care for losing his pawns. Lord Greengrass had done the same thing to Ron many times, and it worked like a charm. Olivia was far too concerned with what Ron could do, and so she failed to see what he was doing. Ron had quickly taken three quarters of the board for himself…
With her room for movement cut off severely, it was only a matter of time before her pawns started dying off. Ron used his knights and bishops to wreak havoc on her front line with little to no retaliation from her. By the time she killed both of his bishops, Ron had taken her rooks and queen. This game was over, but Olivia was going down slowly… Ron admired her need to keep playing until the end, he would've done the same. Around the twenty five minute mark, Ron checkmate her. The small crowd applauded Ron, and he could actually hear Astoria shouting. Ron also spotted Lord Greengrass smirking and shaking hands with the other mentors. Ron shook Olivia's hand and gave her a friendly smile, but she just kept frowning.
"Come with me, Monsieur Weasley" said the announcer in a thick French accent, and Ron followed the man. Ron's stomach flipped at the sight of the reporters who were all waiting at the edge of the stage, and then Ron suddenly felt a strong hand on his left shoulder. Ron looked back slowly, and to his relief, Lord Greengrass was standing right behind him with a proud smile.
"Well done, Ronald" Lord Greengrass whispered. "Now just remain calm, and answer their questions." Ron nodded as the reporters turned to him. He was dazed by their camera flashes, and he smiled his best smile. Merlin… This is terrifying… What if I say something stupid?! Oh shite… The reporters all spoke suddenly, and Ron nearly bolted.
"Please, one at a time" Lord Greengrass said in a raised voice.
"Which school do you represent?" a stout witch asked him, she was holding a notepad close to her chest. Ron cleared his throat before he spoke.
"Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry" Ron answered with a polite smile.
"Which House are you in? Ravenclaw?" a fat man asked.
"I am in Slytherin" Ron replied. There was a sudden outburst of yelling from the reporters, and Ron went pale.
"Is it true that the Heir of Slytherin has returned to Hogwarts?!" the stout woman yelled, and Ron froze.
"Are you the Heir?" came another voice.
"What is Albus Dumbledore doing to protect his students?!"
"Is there a curfew implemented at the school?!"
"Should the parents be concerned?!" Ron felt like he was rooted to the spot, what the fuck was he supposed to say?!
"If you do not have questions regarding the competition, please refrain from asking" Lord Greengrass said firmly.
"Is Harry Potter safe at Hogwarts?!" came another voice.
"This is over" Lord Greengrass said as he pulled Ron away. "No comments!" Lord Greengrass put himself in between Ron and the flashes from the cameras.
November 15th, 1992 (Lunch)
Ron and the Greengrass family waited for their orders to be served. Ron was still a bit dazed from his run-in with the reporters, and Lady Greengrass was rubbing his back softly. Astoria looked slightly sad for Ron, while Lord Greengrass was smiling faintly at Ron's trophy. He looked really proud of me… But I didn't even hold up my end of the deal…
"I'm sorry" Ron muttered. "For not mentioning your patronage…"
"Do not worry about that" Lord Greengrass chuckled, and Ron looked at him with a sorry look. "Ron, it doesn't matter…" He called me Ron… "You have our Family coat of arms on both your tie and blazer, they got the message. Don't let those reporters ruin your victory, I'm extremely proud of you." Ron smiled at that.
"Thank you, my Lord" Ron said gratefully, and then he decided that Lord Greengrass was right. Piss on those reporters! I won! And I can't wait to tell my friends! Ron sat up straight, and Lady Greengrass smiled at him lovingly.
"Ron, you were amazing!" Astoria beamed.
"Love, inside voice…" Lady Greengrass chuckled. "But she is right, Ronald. You were amazing, I'm so proud of you."
"Thank you" Ron smiled at Lady Greengrass.
"Did you hear me cheering for you?" Tori asked excitedly. "I cheered the loudest!"
"I did hear you, and it helped me win" Ron laughed. And just like, the mood became lighter. Lord and Lady Greengrass smiled throughout the entire lunch while Ron spoke to Tori about his victory. Tori listened with baited breath as he told her how he had outsmarted his opponents, and she then urged Lord Greengrass to teach her more about chess. Lord Greengrass agreed with a hearty chuckle, and Tori challenged Ron to a game someday soon. Ron agreed with a wide grin…
November 15th, 1992 (Back to Hogwarts)
Ron walked into Snape's office from the fireplace, and he instantly saw Snape standing in front of a cauldron. Snape turned to Ron, and his expression was blank.
"Mr. Weasley, how did you fare today?" Snape asked in his low voice. Ron showed Snape the trophy with a smirk.
"I made Slytherin proud, Sir" Ron said firmly, and Snape smirked back. That's as close to smiling as he gets!
"Congratulations" Snape said, his voice didn't sound as cold as usual.
"Thank you, Sir" Ron replied with a firm nod.
"Your fellow Slytherin year-mates are currently going to their D.A.D.A class" Snape said, his cold voice had returned. "I suggest you go join them…" Ron sighed at the thought of seeing Lockhart. I forgot that it's Friday… I should have stayed at the Manor! "Is something the matter?"
"Nothing, Sir…" Ron lied. Snape just stared at Ron for a few seconds.
"Just ignore Professor Lockhart, the rest of us do…" Snape said as he turned around to his cauldron. Was that a… joke? Or is he being serious? Ron started to walk out of the office but Snape stopped him with his voice. "Mr. Weasley, leave the trophy on my desk… The Headmaster will want to place it within the Trophy Room."
"Yes, Sir" Ron nodded, and then he did as he was told. Once he was out of Snape's Office, Ron went to the common room to grab his quills and parchment. Don't even need them… Lockhart is just going to read us his damn books anyway… Ron didn't bother changing before he went straight to his class.
"Sorry for being late, Professor" Ron announced himself as he entered Lockhart's class. Lockhart's portraits all frowned at Ron interrupting 'story time'. The whole class turned to face Ron, and Ron smiled sheepishly. Don't mind me… I don't want to be here anymore than you lot do…
"Ah, welcome!" Lockhart grinned, and Ron forced a proper smile on his face. "We were just getting started, take a seat!" Shite! Ron quickly moved and sat down next to Theo.
"Hey…" Theo whispered.
"Hello" Ron replied with a wide smile. Theo grinned at that, he knew for certain now that Ron had won.
"Ronald, where is your school uniform?" Lockhart asked with a bewildered expression.
"I'm sorry, Professor" Ron said politely. "I was in Paris for a competition, I only just got back."
"Ah!" Lockhart grinned, his pearly whites gleaming at Ron. "Chess, I assume?" No, I went to dance competition… Bloody moron…
"Yes, Professor" Ron replied. Ron quickly shot a look at his other friends, and they all looked at him with some sort of anticipation. He gave them a very slight nod, and they all beamed. Daphne looked absolutely radiant!
"You won, I hope?" Lockhart chuckled.
"I did, Professor" Ron smiled politely.
"Well done, my little prodigy!" Lockhart laughed, and Ron felt the need to head butt him. "Stand up, stand up!" Lockhart ordered happily. "Class, give him applause!" Oh Merlin… Please don't… Ron stood up slowly, and the class clapped. Some clapped enthusiastically, while others clapped only because they were told to. Ron's face turned crimson from embarrassment, and he sat down quickly. I hate this grinning arsehole… Ron's eyes shot to Hermione, and she was smiling at him sadly. Ron also looked at Neville and Harry, and both boys looked a bit… sad… What's wrong with them? I need to find out… They've been acting really weird lately…
"That was great…" Theo snickered from beside him.
"I hate him, Theo…" Ron whispered.
"I know…" Theo kept snickering.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: I hope you guys enjoyed this slower chapter! Things are getting strained between Ron and the Trio, and it's going to get a lot worse... That's all I'll say! Let's see if their friendship survives the year... (Also, sorry for the lack Draco!) He will be around a lot more in the next chapter!
See you guys soon!