Fate

by TheTrueSpartan

When Ron discovers that he can see the future, his entire fate is thrown off of its course. A story about adventure, friendship, growing up, and pushing forward through hardships. This story will get darker as it progresses, just like the original Harry Potter novels. It will cover all Seven Years of Hogwarts, but mostly from Ron's perspective. No Mary Sues, no Character bashing.

48. Chapter 48 - Beauxbatons

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 48 is finished early! And here it is! We've gone back to the usual word limit, and that has definitely made it easier on me. Thank you all for your understanding =) Now, a couple of things.

1. I took the liberty of creating my own version of Beauxbatons. Mostly because there is literally nothing on it in the HP Canon story. I mean, there are snippets, and I've used that, but nothing major. It is definitely more 'Magical' than Hogwarts, but a lot smaller.

2. As some of you may know already, I have been given Inspiration Credit by one of the fans of this story. I am truly humbled by that, and I would like to show my support to them. Their name is ROWLINGRON Lover, and their story is called 'Slytherin Weasley: The Cursed Child'. So check it out if you have the time, and show them some support and love. They are, as their name suggests, a Ron fan!

3. If you find any typos in this chapter, please let me know. FanFiction is being a dickhead, and for some reason, it's fucking with my uploads... Thanks in advance.

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.

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Fate

Chapter 48 – Beauxbatons

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday March 21st, 1993 (Hogwarts Express – Midday)

Easter Break had finally started, and the students were all on the Hogwarts Express home. Ron on the other hand wasn't actually going home. He was going straight to Greengrass Manor with Daphne, and tomorrow he'd be taking a Portkey to the Greengrass holiday house in Paris. A holiday house… The mere fact that there were families out there that had houses designated to just holidays baffled Ron, mostly because his own family lived in an overcrowded shack. Ron loved the Burrow, but the more time he spent with his friends, the more he came to realize just how different his upbringing was to theirs. Even Tracey's family had a holiday house in Argentina, and they weren't exactly loaded with Galleons. Having a holiday house was quite common, and yet Ron couldn't even grasp the concept.

Either way, he would be spending his entire holidays with the Greengrass Family. And Ron preferred it that way. There was no doubt in his mind that he wanted to see Pandora and Xenophilius again, or Remus and Sirius, but there was also no doubt in his mind that he didn't want to see his parents. The mere thought of them grated his nerves, and the fact that he had to wait to see Ginny after the Break wasn't helping. But he'd rather wait than see his mother and father. They would no doubt try to convince him to leave his friends behind, and Ron didn't want to put up with that.

There was a sudden jerk on the train, and Ron's eyes opened. Damn, I must've dozed off. Ron noticed that his body was leaning on someone else's, and so he tilted his head up to see who his victim was. Pansy was smiling down at him, her face awfully close to his. Not a bad sight to wake up to if I do say so myself.

"Morning, sunshine" Pansy giggled, and Ron sat up groggily.

"Sorry, Pans" Ron yawned.

"I don't mind" Pansy smiled. "You can go back to sleep if you want, I'll be your pillow."

"I think he's awake" came Daphne's voice, and Ron looked to see her sitting across from him. "Aren't you, Ron?" I am now, I'd rather not be killed in my sleep.

"Yeah, I'm awake…" Ron replied, though he did want to go back to sleeping on Pansy. She was so comfortable. "What's the time? How far are we from King's Cross Station?"

"It is Midday" Theo replied as he checked his silver pocket watch, and Ron remembered that he had a Rolex himself. "We won't get there until five 'o'clock, so plenty of time to chat." Ron looked around the slightly crowded compartment, and he noticed that Blaise, Millie, and Tracey were asleep. Tracey was sleeping on Ron's left, while Millie and Blaise were sleeping next to Daphne. Blaise was leaning on Millie, which was unusual because Blaise hated physical contact with others.

"Look at that, Blaise is leaning on Millie" Ron smirked. "Isn't that cute?"

"That's funny coming from you" Pansy chuckled. "You drooled on my shoulder."

"Did I?" Ron flushed a bit.

"You did" Daphne replied. "Quite a lot of drool… Were you having a nice dream, Ron? You certainly made some amusing sounds." Did I have a nice dream? No, not that I can remember.

"I was dreaming of the Veelas" Ron lied with a smirk. "Paris is going to be lovely." Time to do my favorite thing in the world, poke the Greengrass Heiress.

"I'm sure it is" Theo chuckled. "But you do realize that those birds are out to get you, right?"

"Hey, attention is attention" Ron shrugged. "Can't say I've ever been chased by 'birds' before."

"Have you ever been fired before? Because that is what my father plans to do if you lose" Daphne frowned slightly. I love poking her, she's too easy to annoy.

"Then I guess we won't be spending the Holiday Break together" Ron sighed, and he noticed Daphne blink at him.

"You can always come to Tracey's" Theo suggested, he had caught onto Ron's game. "She was telling me that you have an open invitation."

"Well, that's settled then" Ron smiled at Theo. "When I lose due to the Veelas, and Lord Greengrass fires me, I'll come right on over."

"Ron, stop being mean" Pansy scolded. "You've been up for five minutes, and you're already causing trouble."

"That's why you love me" Ron grinned, and then he felt someone cling to his left arm. Ron looked to his left, and he noticed Tracey cuddling him in her sleep with a smile.

"Ha, guess it's your turn now" Pansy chuckled. "Have fun, Tracey won't be waking up anytime soon."

"You could always just wake her up yourself" Theo said rather quickly.

"I agree with Theo" Daphne nodded. "She will be really embarrassed when she finds out what she did in her sleep."

"I doubt it" Pansy responded. "She's always giving him hugs and kisses in public, so this is nothing new." Ron could've sworn that the temperature in the compartment dropped, and that Daphne was the cause. Sadly for Ron, only he seemed to notice Daphne's irritation. He had been watching her more closely ever since they started their new dynamic, and he had to admit, Daphne seemed to have an iron-will. He knew that it bothered her greatly when other girls got too close to him, but she never openly complained about it anymore. Something that really showed Ron just how much she had improved over the last two years. If this was the Daphne of last year, then they'd all be dead right now.

"It was just a suggestion" Daphne shrugged, and then she looked out the window. Ron felt a pang of guilt at that, maybe he shouldn't press that button anymore. She was clearly trying to better herself and not act jealously anymore, and a good friend ought to be helping her, not hindering her.

"Trace, wake up" Ron said softly as he shook her a little.

"Mmm" Tracey hummed in her sleep, and then she hugged his arm more tightly. Ron's face went red as he felt his left arm snuggle in between her developing chest, and he kicked himself internally. Ronald Weasley: How to make life worse for yourself. That would be the title of my autobiography. Ron was about to wake her up, but there was a sudden knock at the door.

"Come in" Theo called, and the door slid open. Potter, Longbottom, and Hermione stood in the doorway, and Hermione's eyes landed straight on Tracey cuddling Ron. Thank you, Universe. You ever expanding son of a bitch.

"Oh…" Hermione managed, and Ron just kept a straight face. What are the odds that this happened to me?

"Hello, you three" Ron smiled at them. "What can I do for you?"

"We just wanted to talk to you about something" Potter said, his eyes lingering on Tracey as well. "But we can come back later."

"Nonsense" Ron smiled, and then he shook Tracey again. "Trace, wake up please. I need you to let go of my arm." Tracey's eyes opened groggily, and she looked at his face. But rather than letting him go, she smiled mischievously.

"Morning, handsome" Tracey cooed, her eyes still barely open.

"Ahem" Hermione fake coughed, and Tracey turned to look at her. Big mistake, Hermione.

"Granger?" Tracey smiled. "Do you want to borrow my Ron?"

"My… Ron…" Hermione muttered, and Ron nearly frowned. Daphne is probably eyeballing me. Ron shot a quick look to her, but she was just looking out the window. I'm an arsehole, and I need to apologize. She's doing her best to not give into her jealous tendencies, and I'm just poking her for no reason. No more of that, I promise.

"Alright, Tracey" Ron said as he shook his left arm. "No more of that." Tracey let go of his arm, and Ron stood up and walked out of the compartment. "What do you guys need?" Ron asked as he closed the door behind him.

"Well, I know that we haven't spoken much since we made up" Potter said, his eyes focused on Ron's. "I mean, you and Hermione have… Because you study together and all…"

"What Harry is trying to say is that we want to try and be friends again" Longbottom jumped in, and Ron just blinked at him. "And I'm hosting Harry and Hermione at my house over the Break… I was wondering if you'd like to come too."

"I can't" Ron replied. "I have a Junior League Tournament to compete in at Beauxbatons, and you already know that."

"Oh, we do" Longbottom nodded. "But this will be happening on the weekend before school starts again…" Ron shot a quick look at their features to analyze their true intent. Potter looked rather hopeful, as did Longbottom, but Hermione seemed to be averting her gaze. Tracey, I'm going to kill you.

"I still can't" Ron told the truth. "I'm spending the entire holiday in Paris, and I only come back on Saturday night. And then on Sunday, we have to catch the train back. Sorry, Long…" Ron stopped abruptly. He had just realized that he was no longer even using their names when he spoke to them. He didn't want to call them Potter and Longbottom, nor did he want to call them by their first names. "Sorry, Neville." Blaise and Theo are right, I need to move on. If they can try, then so can I.

"Oh, it's alright" Neville smiled softly, he had noticed Ron's slip up. "Maybe next time?"

"Definitely" Ron replied, and he managed a small smile. Pot… Harry look a bit disappointed, Neville looked understanding, and Hermione was still averting her eyes. "Is there anything else?"

"Sirius wanted me to invite you over too" Harry added. "But I'll tell him that you're busy with work… Merlin, you actually work" Harry chuckled a bit, and Ron just blinked at him. "I mean, it's just a bit mental you know. You're our age, but you work. As in an actual job, like a grown up…"

"Harry" Hermione said, and Harry stopped his raving.

"Sorry, Ron" Harry smiled sheepishly. "I just want to… move on, you know. To not feel… awkward around you anymore."

"I know" Ron replied softly, he understood Harry's nervousness. A lot had happened between them this year, and the fact that Harry was trying to push forward was actually quite admirable. Ron could see why Harry was in Gryffindor, it took real courage to admit one's mistakes. That was personally Ron's biggest problem, he was too stubborn. Don't whine, be better. That's what Lord Greengrass would say. So be better, Ron. "I want to get past this awkwardness too, so how about we spend more time together at school?"

"Really?" Harry smiled, and Ron nodded. "Sure, that'd be great. We could fly around on the pitch together, that'd be fun."

"Alright" Ron smiled as well. "What are you plans for the holidays?"

"I'm spending my holidays with Sirius and Remus" Harry smiled, he looked extremely happy about that fact. "Neville and his Grandmother are hosting some sort of Egg Hunt, and we're invited. And Hermione has plans with her parents."

"Plans with her parents?" Ron asked Hermione for more clarification.

"They want to spend time with me after… you know" Hermione said softly.

"The attack" Ron sighed. "That's fair enough, I shouldn't have asked."

"No, it's alright" Hermione smiled a little. "What about your parents? Are they coming to your Tournament?" They don't know about my situation, do they?

"Um… No" Ron shook his head. "They need to take care of Gin, and they've got their hands full with my brothers." And I don't want them there. It'll just turn into something else that I have to worry about.

"Oh, that's understandable" Neville smiled. "We'd better get going, good luck in your Tournament Ron." The door suddenly slid open, and Daphne emerged from the compartment. Ron took a step back to make room, while Daphne closed the door behind her.

"Daph, everything alright?" Ron asked, and she looked to him with a calm look.

"I just want to get something from the trolley" Daphne replied.

"Oh, I'll come with you" Ron smiled, and then he turned to the Trio. "I'll see you guys later."

"Alright" Harry smiled. "Take care, and good luck again." With that, the Trio started making their way back to the Gryffindor carriage. Ron didn't miss Hermione shooting him a quick look, and he gave her a slow wave. But she didn't return it, and then all three of them were gone. Tracey needs to stop pushing Hermione, even though I've already told Hermione that it's not like that.

"Trouble in paradise?" Daphne asked coldly, and Ron shrugged.

"She thinks that I'm dating Tracey" Ron told Daphne, and then he looked at her. She had the 'Ice-Queen' persona in place, just like she always did in public.

"I could see that, considering your behavior" Daphne responded, and then she turned to leave. Ron followed her for a bit, and when they were further away from their compartment, he put his left hand on her right shoulder to stop her. Daphne turned to her right and just stared at him, her face expressionless.

"Daphne, I'm really sorry about that" Ron apologized. "I was trying to be funny, but I can see how I came off as an arsehole instead. I shouldn't act like that, especially since we're… trying different things together…" Didn't stick the landing there, Weasley.

"Whatever" Daphne said coldly, and then she went to leave but Ron stopped her.

"I'm sorry, I won't act like that again" Ron said firmly. "I promise." Daphne turned back to him, she was still the Ice-Queen. A stupid nickname. Daphne isn't some cold hearted banshee, but people love labeling others.

"Good" Daphne said curtly, and then she started walking again. Ron sighed, and he followed after her. They found the trolley quickly enough, and they got into line. There was a Ravenclaw couple in front of them, and the girl was ordering a whole bunch of things. Once she was done picking her sweets, the boy paid for them all. Ron found that odd, but it seemed to please the girl greatly. Her smile just grew ten times wider when he took out his pouch. Ron shot a look at Daphne, and he saw her just looking forward with a cold look.

"Next" the trolley lady called, and both Slytherins stepped up.

"Could I please get two licorice wands?" Daphne asked. "And three Chocolate Frogs."

"And you, dear?" the woman looked to Ron.

"I'll have three Cherry pops, and two Chocolate Frogs" Ron ordered. The woman then picked out their orders, and Ron took out his pouch.

"Paying together, or separately?" the woman asked.

"I'm paying" Ron said quickly, and he handed over the money. Ron's eyes darted to Daphne, but her expression didn't even change in the slightest. I've really pissed her off, haven't I? Damnit Weasley, you big oaf. The woman handed them their orders, and they both departed for their compartment again. The silence was unbearable, but Ron kept his mouth shut, he had done enough damage for one day. As they got onto the Slytherin carriage, Daphne suddenly shot quick looks around her.

"Daph, what's the…" Ron was stopped abruptly when Daphne pushed him into a corner, and then she pressed her lips against his rather firmly. He was shocked out of his mind for a couple of seconds, but then he relaxed a little. Daphne pulled back after a few seconds with a smacking sound, and she stared right into his slightly wide eyes. That's twice she's kissed me like that…

"They can cuddle your arms and kiss your cheeks all they want, but I'm the only person who gets to do this" Daphne smirked. "Remember that." Ron nodded meekly, and she planted three quick pecks on his lips. Daphne then stepped back, her smirk still in place. "And thank you for your kind gesture just then, it was rather gentleman-like.

"No… no worries…" Ron blushed crimson, his lips feeling a little tender from her first kiss.

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Saturday March 21st, 1993 (Platform 93/4)

Ron stepped off of the train with his trunk in tow, at least he was lucky that Helios was with Ginny at the Burrow. The rest of his friends looked rather encumbered with their pet's cages and their trunks weighing them down. But Ron decided not to help them, a little hardship never killed anyone.

"Mother and father should be near the Floo Networks as usual" Daphne said as she pulled her trunk behind her, she didn't have her owl with her.

"Where's your owl?" Ron asked.

"I sent him off in advance, unlike the rest of these simpletons" Daphne smirked.

"Sod off, Greengrass" Theo frowned, the weedy boy was having trouble with his owl's cage. Ron ignored their banter as he spotted his mother and father, but luckily they hadn't spotted him yet.

"Shite, I need to move" Ron told his friends. "I'll see you guys after the Break…"

"Ron, where are you going?" Tracey frowned. "At least say goodbye…"

"His parents are right there, Tracey" Millie told her. "Ron, I can distract them for you."

"No" Daphne said firmly. "Ron, stop being a coward. You can't let them see any weakness, so stand up straight and start walking. If you don't want to see them, tell them that. But don't run off like some cretin."

"Daphne is right, Ron" Blaise added on. "If you show them that you're scared to see them, then they can use that against you. And what are they going to do? You're still their son."

"Fine…" Ron frowned. "I just want to see them, that's all."

"That's fair enough" Blaise nodded, he didn't want to see his mother either. "But skulking away isn't the right call. Not in this case anyway."

"Also, we should say goodbye now" Pansy told them. "Because…" she trailed off, a guilty look appearing on her face.

"Because of me" Ron sighed, she was right.

"I didn't…" Pansy started, but Ron stopped her with a smile.

"It's alright, Pans" Ron assured her. "I understand your situations, so let's say our goodbyes now." Pansy smiled gratefully, and then they all said their goodbyes. Tracey, Millie, and Pansy gave him hugs, while the boys gave him firm handshakes. They all wished him luck, and he wished them a happy Easter Break.

"Let's go, Ron" Daphne said as all of them disbanded. Ron gave her a nod, and they began making their way towards the Floo Networks. "Don't worry, Ron. Everything will be fine, just walk with your head held high."

"Thanks, Daph" Ron smiled a little, but his armpits began to sweat the closer he got to his parents. And then, they spotted him. Fuck, here we go. His mother gave him a smile, while his father looked rather… subdued. Ron noticed that his brothers were already with them, which meant that his parents had been looking for him. Ron looked for Ginny, but sadly, she had not come with their parents. She still needs time, I guess.

"Ronnie" his mother called to him, and he fought the urge to frown. She calls me Ronnie to my face, while she stabs me in the fucking back. His brothers were visibly uncomfortable at the exchange, especially the twins. Percy gave Ron an encouraging nod, one that Ron was grateful for.

"Mother" Ron greeted as he approached them, and his mother's smile faltered a bit. "Daphne, please go on. I'll catch up to you shortly, and give my apologies to your Lord Father for my delay."

"I will, don't take too long" Daphne nodded, and then she looked to Ron's parents. "Mr. and Mrs. Weasley" Daphne greeted them, and then she left for the Floo Networks.

"Ginny didn't come?" Ron asked as he worked hard to keep his composure. The sight of them was suddenly spiking his anger, how could they do this to him? How could they pull this kind of stunt, and then stand there with those looks on their faces?

"No, son" his father replied softly. "Being around people upsets her greatly, and being here would only hurt her."

"I see" Ron said. "Well, I'll be off then." Ron went to leave, but his mother put her hand on his right shoulder.

"Ron, we are still your parents" his mother said, her voice rising slightly. "Don't walk away from us like that."

"Do not put your hands on me" Ron hissed, and his mother shrank back with a startled look.

"Ron…" came Percy's tired sigh.

"Do not speak to your mother that way, young man" his father scolded, though his voice faltered near the end.

"Or what?" Ron glared at his backstabbing father. "You'll smack me in front of other people?" His mother flinched at that, while his father's mouth hung open slightly. Ron felt a grim satisfaction at that, it felt good to make them feel a bit of the pain that they had put him through. It felt good to reject them the way that they often rejected him when he was younger. Mother only saw Ginny, while father only saw his Muggle toys.

"Ron" came Pandora's voice, and Ron turned to see Pandora and Xenophilius coming towards them. Luna was following behind them, and Ron was grateful for their interruption.

"Pandora" Ron smiled at her, the sight of her happy face made his heart feel at ease. She should've been my mother… She walked up and hugged him tightly, and Ron hugged her back. He didn't see the hurt look on his parents' face, but even if he had, he wouldn't have really cared.

"How has your term been so far?" Pandora asked him as she let him go, but Ron still longed to hug her.

"It's been going excellently, Pandora" Ron smiled. "The Professors are all very pleased with my work, I know that for certain."

"Aren't you confident?" Pandora laughed, but her laugh died when she saw Ron's parents. "Are we interrupting something?"

"No" Ron answered for them. "I was just on my way to the Floo Networks to meet up with Lord and Lady Greengrass." Pandora exchanged looks with Ron's parents, and then she frowned at Ron. Nice, now we're getting into it. Come around everyone, the Weasleys are putting on a fucking show for you.

"Pandora, love" Xenophilius said softly. "We are in the middle of the Platform, let's not do anything that will embarrass us." Thank you, Xeno.

"Ron, what is going on here?" Pandora asked him as she ignored her husband, and Xeno just sighed tiredly. "Molly, what's going on here?"

"Nothing to worry about, Pandora…" his mother lied.

"Ron's being a prick to them" Fred said hotly, and he shot Ron an angry look. Percy smacked Fred over the head, while George just stared at Fred in disbelief.

"Ron, explain yourself right now" Pandora said firmly, and Ron felt his resolve weaken. He didn't like it when Pandora got angry with him.

"It's alright, Pandora" his father said suddenly. "He's angry, but that will pass with time. Ron, we're putting a stop on the Re-Sorting. I promise. You can stay in Slytherin, and I'm sorry, son." Ron looked to his father with a stunned look, was this for real?! Did I hear that right?

"Do you mean that?" Ron asked softly, his heart beating in his throat. I can stay with my friends? I'm finally free from this fucking Re-Sorting business?

"Yes, Ron" his father nodded, though he didn't exactly sound happy about this decision. "Percy… Percy showed us that we were wrong to do this to you… I'm sorry." Ron looked to Percy, and his older brother smiled softly. He saved me… He came through for me… I can stay with my friends.

"Thank you, Percy" Ron said, he didn't feel the need to thank his parents. They shouldn't have made that ultimatum in the first place. Percy gave him a nod, while the twins just looked around in confusion. When had Percy convinced them to let Ron stay in Slytherin? And why would he do that? "Well, I should be on my way" Ron said, he was tired of this exchange. He wanted to stay with Pandora and Xenophilius for longer, but it was clear that his parents had no intention of leaving.

"And what about your parents, Ron?" Pandora asked him, her frown still marring her beauty. "Don't they deserve your gratitude?" Sorry about this Pandora, but I'm done with this conversation. And I'm not thanking them for causing me so much stress and panic, just so they could satisfy their own prejudices.

"For what? Making ultimatums? For causing me so much extra stress?" Ron asked her, and Pandora was utterly stunned by his cold response. "I'm not in the habit of thanking people who betray me… If you want proof of that, go speak with Potter." With that, Ron walked around her and left them all behind. Was that harsh? Maybe. Was it necessary? Definitely. He was tired of being the one who always apologized in the end. And he was tired of being the one that everyone blamed for their own mistakes. Why should he thank them for causing him so many problems?

Ron hated that he had to speak to Pandora in such a manner, but he had a lot more self-respect now. Even just last year, he would have happily picked up the little crumbs of attention that his parents sent his way. But now… Now he understood that respect needed to be earned, and sometimes, you had to take it. Whenever the Slytherins turned against him, he had no trouble earning back their respect. And he succeeded because he didn't show any weakness, and therefore he wouldn't show any weakness now either. He had to show his parents that he refused to be treated like some second-hand possession, and that he was the son that they got. If they didn't like it, then it was their loss. Ron would do his duty to his blood, no doubt about that, but he would never grovel for attention again. His new sense of self refused to go back to being the overlooked sixth son.

"Kid, there you are" came Sirius' voice from ahead, and Ron noticed that he had missed the Greengrass Family while he was in his thoughts. Sirius was standing next to Lord Greengrass, while Remus stood with Lady Greengrass. Ron also noted that Harry was standing next to Daphne and Astoria.

"Sirius" Ron smiled, and Sirius grinned in return.

"Come here, you little devil!" Sirius laughed, and Ron walked up and hugged Sirius. Sirius nearly squeezed the life out of him, and Ron loved it. "Let me look at you" Sirius said as he pulled back, his voice doting and loving. Sirius observed Ron's features, and Ron was glad that those Sleeping Draughts from Carey had repaired his looks. "Handsome as always, don't you agree Seb?" Seb?! Does Sirius have a death-wish?

"Please stop calling me that" Lord Greengrass replied.

"Well I agree with you, Sirius" Lady Greengrass chuckled. "Are you ready to go, Ron?"

"Yes, my Lady" Ron said politely.

"My Lady!" Sirius laughed, and Ron saw Remus just sigh to himself. "So formal, you're definitely a Slytherin through and through."

"On that, we can agree Black" Lord Greengrass said, his tone calm and collected.

"Forgive him please, he gets excited easily" Remus said. "Kind of like a dog does when it sees a bone." He's a Werewolf… Ron observed Remus' features, the man had long scars on his face and neck. No doubt from his monthly changes. "Ron, is everything alright?" Remus asked. "I know I'm incredibly handsome, but please refrain from staring in public." Ron chuckled at that. I don't care that he's a Werewolf, he's always been kind to me. And that's all that matters to me.

"It's the scars" Ron joked. "They are very appealing." Remus laughed loudly at that, and Ron saw Harry sniggering. Daphne shot Ron a soft smirk, while Astoria just giggled to herself.

"Ron, behave" Lord Greengrass said, and Ron nodded.

"You're too serious, Seb" Sirius chuckled. "But we'll lighten you up in time."

"I can hardly wait" Lord Greengrass said dryly. They have actual banter going on? This is… I don't even know what to say. Lord Greengrass told me that they were scheming together, but I didn't expect this. "Ron, let's be on our way."

"Wait, before you go" Sirius said as he pulled out a green tinted bottle from his robes. "Cologne, for the ladies… You are going to Paris, after all." Ron's ears went red at that, Daphne was right fucking there.

"Thanks, Sirius" Ron said as he accepted the gift.

"Alright, good luck kid" Sirius ruffled Ron's well-groomed hair. "Go and show those French what we British are capable of, got it?"

"I will" Ron grinned.

"Good luck, Ron" Remus said, and then much to Ron's surprise, Remus gave him a firm hug.

"Thanks, Remus" Ron smiled at the tall man.

"Good luck, mate" Harry said as he put his hand forward for a shake. Ron took his hand and shook it firmly.

"Thanks, Harry" Ron smiled genuinely, and he didn't miss Sirius' massive grin at the sight of them. Sirius and Remus then gave Lord and Lady Greengrass parting nods, and then they vanished through a green blaze along with Harry.

"Let's be on our way then, come Tori" Lady Greengrass said, and Tori ran up and grabbed her hand. Lord Greengrass led the way, followed by Lady Greengrass and Tori, and then it was just Daphne and Ron.

"You go first" Ron offered.

"Wow, such a gentleman" Daphne smirked, and then she went through the green blaze. Ron watched the fire for a second, and then he shot a look to where his parents were. They were no longer there, and Ron felt something twist in his chest. He ignored it, and then he followed after Daphne.

"Can I hug him now?" Tori asked as soon as he came through the fire, and Mary let go of her hand. Tori immediately bolted to him and jumped him, and he caught her as he dropped his trunk. He put his arms around her back, and her feet dangled in the air as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Astoria!" Daphne gasped. "Mother, how can you allow that?!" Why is Tori so light? I know she's turning eleven on the first of June, but she weighs nothing for someone her age.

"Because I love him" Tori giggled, and then she planted a smothering kiss on his left cheek. Daphne looked like she was going to faint, but then a defiant look crossed her face. Oh, shite.

"Then I get to do it too" Daphne frowned at her mother.

"No" Mary refused immediately. "You are the eldest daughter of this Family, and our Heiress. You will not act like… her" Mary sighed as she stared at Tori's giggling form.

"Alright, Tori" Ron chuckled. "That's enough, I'm staying with you for two weeks. We can hug as much as you want later." Ron then lowered himself so she could plant her feet on the ground.

"Fine…" Tori pouted as she let him go. "But you'd better keep your word, or you'll regret it."

"I will" Ron chuckled.

"Daphne, please escort Ron to his bedroom for the night" Lord Greengrass said, his tone slightly more happy than before. "After that, escort him to my study." With that, Lord Greengrass left the greeting room.

"Tori, come" Mary said. "We will continue with your French lessons."

"Aw" Tori whined. "Can't I spend time with Ron and Daphne?"

"No, young Lady" Mary refused. "We will continue your lessons because they were interrupted, now come along." Mary then turned to Ron and Daphne. "I will see you both at dinner" Mary smiled. "It's good to have you back." Mary then stroked Daphne's hair lovingly, and then she left. Tori followed after her with slumped shoulders, and Ron let out a chuckle.

"Come along, Ron" Daphne said, and Ron noticed that her trunk was gone. House-Elves. Ron followed after Daphne with his trunk in tow, and he felt the urge to ask about Tori's weight. But in the end, he decided that it would be incredibly rude. They were hosting him in their home, and he would not be disrespectful in any way. Ron followed Daphne upstairs, and she led him into a hallway that contained multiple doors.

"My room is the one on the far end, it has my name on it" Daphne told him. "And this is your room." Ron looked at the door, and he was stunned to see his name engraved onto it. Daphne opened the door, and they both entered it. Ron was stunned at how extravagant it was. His bed was as majestic as Tori's, but it had a Slytherin green scheme. There was expensive looking furniture as well, and a personal fucking fireplace too. Ron's mouth hung open as he looked around the emerald green walls, paintings and other decorations catching his eye. This room is… It's too good for me… "I hope you like it" Daphne said, and Ron turned to see her standing by the door. "I designed it myself, from the paint scheme to the furniture."

"When?" Ron asked softly.

"When you were spending your time in the library" Daphne replied, her cheeks becoming rosy. "Do you like it?"

"I do" Ron said, he was genuinely overwhelmed. Something that Daphne didn't fail to notice, and it brought a happy smile on her face. Her hard work had paid off. "I love it…"

"Good" Daphne said as she closed the door behind her. "It's yours permanently. Father told me that whenever you stay here, this will serve as your room." Mine? Ron let out a soft chuckle, and he felt his eyes sting a bit. This is too good to be mine… "Now put down your trunk, Ron." Ron blinked at her, but he did as he was told. Daphne then ran at him, and he was honestly startled for a second. But he managed to figure out her intent, and he caught her when she jumped on him. She was a lot heavier than Tori, but Ron managed to hold her up.

"Daph…" Ron groaned, a sudden jolt of pain shooting throughout his back. Her feet were off the ground, and he held her back tightly. Unlike Tori, Daphne had a chest on her, and Ron's face burned because of that. Ron slowly lowered her down, and she pulled back with a defiant grin. And then, she gave him a smothering kiss on his lips that lasted well over five seconds. When she pulled back, Ron was left utterly dazed.

"Whose hug did you enjoy more, mine or Tori's?" Daphne asked.

"Yours…" Ron muttered, what just happened?

"Right answer" Daphne smirked, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Now come along, father doesn't like to be kept waiting." This trip is going to end badly for me, isn't it?

---

Sunday March 22nd, 1993 (Breakfast at Greengrass Manor)

Ron started on his third plate of breakfast, and he had no intention of stopping just yet. He was completely ravenous this morning, and it was probably due to his nervousness. They were going to be heading to Paris via Portkey at noon, and according to Lord Greengrass, the Tournament would officially begin the moment they landed in Paris. Ron had spent the entire evening, and even the time after dinner, with Lord Greengrass. They had gone over their strategies on how to avoid the Veela allures, but they both knew that it was hopeless. There would be well over fifty Half-Veelas at the Tournament, and they would be using their allures in full force.

So the strategy was to keep his head down, and to concentrate on nothing but chess. Ron would not speak to any females, he wouldn't look at any females, and he would not even look at his opponents. He'd keep his eyes on the board, and nothing else. Mary had asked Ron to pull out as well, she knew the damage that the Veela allure could cause to males. Especially when it was solely focused on them, but Ron refused to back out. If he lost, then he lost. But he wouldn't tuck tail and run, that just wasn't in his character.

"Can we go shopping when we get to Paris?" Tori asked, and Ron was pulled out of his thoughts. "I want show Ron around Paris." Ron could physically feel Daphne tensing next to her sister, but her face remained calm as usual.

"You may go shopping, but Ron will be spending his time training with me" Lord Greengrass replied from the head of the table. "He is not on vacation, he is working." Tori pouted at that, and Ron held back a snigger. Tori had been constantly knocking on Lord Greengrass' study door last night in the hopes of spending time with Ron, but Lord Greengrass just ignored her interruptions.

"I'm sure that you will get to spend time with each other" Mary smiled at Tori. "But your father is right, this Tournament is important to Ron. Spend time with your sister instead."

"But Daphne has already seen Paris" Tori whined.

"Technically, so have I" Ron reminded her.

"Nuh-uh" Tori denied. "We went straight to your competition last time, you didn't see anything."

"A Lady does not say 'Nuh-uh', Astoria" Mary frowned slightly. "It is childish, and unbecoming."

"Nuh-uh" Tori denied, a grin appearing on her face.

"Tori, behave" Lord Greengrass said, and Tori's shoulders slumped. He's tense about the Tournament, and so am I. We both know that I'm in some serious trouble.

"But Ron will get some spare time, won't he?" Daphne asked suddenly, shooting an inquisitive look at her father.

"No" Lord Greengrass replied.

"Yes" Mary corrected as she sent a frown at Lord Greengrass. And now I'm confused. So is it a yes, or a no? "Don't worry, all us will be showing Ron the sights."

"Oh, good" Daphne nodded, but Ron could tell that she was disappointed. Ron didn't know how he felt about sneaking around with Daphne on this trip, he didn't want her parents finding out. Or Tori for that matter, the little she-devil would tell the whole planet. What they were doing was… inappropriate? But definitely fun. And it's just harmless pecks, nothing more. Ron started on his fourth plate, and Tori shot him a disbelieving look.

"You eat a lot, Ron" Tori giggled. "You'll get fat if you keep eating like that."

"He's a growing boy, love" Mary told Tori. "Ron, eat as much as you like. It's good for you."

"It won't be good when we use the Portkey" Daphne said as she stared at his full plate.

"Don't worry" Ron smiled at her. "I'll make sure to aim for your dress." Tori and Mary laughed at that, while Daphne just frowned.

---

Sunday March 22nd, 1993 (Greengrass Holiday Home Garden – Noon)

Ron heaved, his stomach tightening from nausea. Portkeys were the worst method of traveling, Ron was certain of it. Even the calm, and collected, Daphne was green in the face. Lord and Lady Greengrass were tending to Tori because the little girl had actually vomited, so Ron and Daphne were left to heave to themselves. Curse whoever made Portkeys, why didn't we just Floo down here?

"Ron, are you alright?" came Lord Greengrass' voice, and Ron shook his head. I ate too much food, Daphne was right.

"Why didn't we just use the Floo?" Ron managed to ask.

"Because the Floo Network has a range, and Paris is well out of it" Lord Greengrass sighed, and then Ron felt his mentor rubbing his back. "This gets easier with practice, but just let it out for now if you need to."

"And prove Daphne right? Never" Ron joked, his stomach turning again. Lord Greengrass chuckled at the joke, and he patted Ron's back.

"Love, I'm taking Tori inside" came Mary's voice, and Ron looked to see Mary holding Tori up like a baby. Tori's head was resting on Mary's left shoulder, and she looked incredibly out of sorts. Daphne quickly recovered herself, and she followed her mother inside.

"Is Tori alright? She looks dreadful" Ron asked his mentor.

"Tori has a… She's always been fragile, Ron" Lord Greengrass answered slowly. "Do not worry about her, she will be fine with a little rest." Fragile? What does that mean? Is that why she barely weighs anything? "Come Ron, let's get you inside" Lord Greengrass said as he ushered Ron inside.

"My trunk?" Ron asked.

"The Elves will take our luggage, do not worry about that" Lord Greengrass replied. They then entered the home, and it was quite remarkable. It didn't have a grand marble interior like Greengrass Manor, it instead had a dark, hard-wood interior. It looked a lot more Muggle than Ron had anticipated, and it was certainly filled with Muggle ornaments and decorations. No moving portraits, no dazzling magic in sight, and certainly no fairies flying about in the gardens. Ron rather liked this home, it looked very humble and cozy. Not to mention that it was warm, and inviting. "Your room is on the second floor, just like the girls. Mary and I sleep in the Master Bedroom on the third floor, and my study is on the ground floor. Make yourself comfortable and explore, I need to go and check on my youngest daughter." With that Lord Greengrass left.

Ron looked around the much smaller home, but it was still huge in his eyes. Greengrass Manor was monstrous in size, but this house was still quite massive. But then again, the Greengrass Family had a very different idea of what a house's size should be when compared to Ron. Ron explored the ground floor, and his favorite place so far was the dining room. The dining table was much smaller, and therefore more intimate, and there was a magical harp playing itself in the far corner. Ron then traveled to the living room, and he spotted Daphne sitting on a love-seat in front of a warm fire. Ron could hear the harp from the living room, and it gave the house an extremely comforting ambience.

"This is a beautiful house, Daph" Ron said as he approached her, and he winced when he saw her slightly green face.

"Thanks, Ron" Daphne managed. "Sorry, but I feel really sick…"

"Want me to get you a bucket?" Ron joked, and Daphne managed to shoot him a frown. "Sorry, I was just trying to make you feel better."

"I know, but I feel really sick" Daphne managed, her arms tucked around her stomach. Ron took a seat to her left, and he decided to try a trick that Luna had taught him. Ron put his gloved hand on Daphne's back, and he back rubbing circles on it. "Ron, what are you doing?" Daphne asked, her cheeks becoming slightly rosy.

"Luna did this to me once when I was really sick" Ron replied. "It made me feel better. Do you want me to stop?"

"No" Daphne said softly, and then she turned to stare at the fire. Ron kept rubbing circles on her back, and he saw Daphne visibly relax. "Mmm" Daphne hummed after a minute. "That feels so good…" Ron smiled at her closed eyes and content smile, she seemed to be enjoying herself. Ron was enjoying himself too, the fire's warmth showered his skin and the music eased his mind.

"My arm's getting tired" Ron lied, a smirk appearing on his face.

"Don't you dare stop" Daphne giggled, her sickness apparently forgotten. "I should thank Luna for teaching you this trick, she is such a bright girl."

"And what about me?" Ron asked. "Don't I get thanks?"

"You'll get it later" Daphne smiled mischievously. "Unless you want it now?" Later please, I don't want to die just before the Tournament starts.

"Your parents could walk in, Daph" Ron told her.

"Scared?" Daphne kept smiling.

"Yes" Ron replied, and Daphne giggled again. She only giggles when we're alone now, and it's really cute.

"Fine, later it is" Daphne smiled. "But please tell me that you aren't going to spend the entire Break with my father, I want you to spend more time with me."

"Most girls would be too shy to say that" Ron chuckled, but Daphne just shrugged. I'm too shy to say that.

"I know what I want, and I'm not in the habit of hiding what I want" Daphne responded. "I want to spend time with you, and I know you want to spend time with me."

"Do I?" Ron asked, his gloved hand still working on her back.

"Of course you do, I'm delightful" Daphne chuckled. "So, are you really going to be spending all your time with my father?"

"For the first week, I am" Ron nodded, and Daphne let out a sigh.

"I understand" Daphne admitted, and then she shuffled closer to Ron. "But what about after you win the tournament?"

"Daph… I'm not going to win this one…" Ron said softly. "Your father and I both know it…"

"The Veelas" Daphne frowned, and Ron nodded. "There has to be some way to overcome their allures, didn't you two come up with a plan last night?"

"We tried to, but we didn't get far" Ron told her. "I asked him if we could use a potion to dull my…" Ron trailed off.

"Your adolescent needs?" Daphne provided, and Ron blushed a bit.

"Yeah, those…" Ron sighed. "But he told me that they will be testing people for potions this year, and guess whose idea that was?"

"The French Ministry" Daphne huffed in indignation.

"Lord Greengrass said that they don't want any of the competitors taking any intelligence enhancing draughts" Ron said softly. "And that taking any potion before a match merits disqualification. So that plan went out the window."

"So what are you going to do?" Daphne asked.

"Keep my head down, win a few games" Ron shrugged. "But even if I lose, I'm not backing out because they want to cheat."

"Good" Daphne smiled softly. "That's one of my favorite traits about you, you're very determined."

"Don't you mean stubborn?" Ron smiled.

"Determined sounds better in this context" Daphne replied, and Ron stared into her dark blue eyes. His stomach was filled with nervous butterflies, and his eyes darted to her lips. "Careful Ron, someone could walk in" Daphne whispered.

"Scared?" Ron asked.

"Yes" she replied, but then she suddenly pecked his lips. Ron blinked at her, and she moved away to put some distance between them. "Oh look, we didn't get caught" Daphne giggled, and Ron felt his lips form into a smile. Pansy was right, Daphne has a seriously rebellious side. And I think I like it…

"There you are, Ron" came Lord Greengrass' voice from behind them, and Ron nearly passed out from fear. "Now that you've adjusted, let's go over a few more chess plays." Thank Merlin, he didn't see anything.

"Yes, my Lord" Ron replied as he stood up from his seat, and he shot a quick look at Daphne. She was just smiling at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. I think I really like it.

---

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Greengrass Holiday House – Early Morning)

"Are you ready?" came Daphne's voice. "Can I come in?"

"Sure, Daph" Ron replied as he fixed his tie, and Ron heard the door open behind him. Daphne stepped in and closed the door behind her, and Ron turned to face her. "So, how do I look?" Ron asked.

"I've already seen your uniform, Ron" Daphne chuckled. Lockhart's class, I remember. "And you look great, though your tie is off-center."

"Oh" Ron muttered, and he fixed it again.

"Wait, do you have your Hogwarts pin from Dumbledore?" Daphne asked, and Ron nodded slowly. He returned it to me after I threw it at him… Not my finest moment. "Well, where is it?"

"In my trunk" Ron said, and much to his horror, Daphne went over and opened his trunk. "Daph! My underwear is in there!" She shot him a deadpan look, and then she pulled out the pin.

"You should keep this in a safer place than just throwing it in your trunk, Ron" Daphne scolded, but Ron just felt his face burn from embarrassment. She saw my underwear! Did I pack enough? I hope so, otherwise she might think that I don't change underwear often. "Ron, stop blushing like that" Daphne giggled as she approached him. "Even if I think that it's really cute. Now hold still, let me pin this on your uniform." Daphne pinned it on his blazer's left lapel, and then she took a step back. "It looks perfect" she smiled widely.

"Thanks, Daph" Ron smiled, and then he finally realized that she was wearing casual Muggle clothes. "Daphne, why aren't you dressed yet?"

"I'm going to my room now, mother wants to do my hair first" Daphne told him. "My father is waiting for you downstairs though, so you should go on." Ron nodded, and they both left the room. Daphne went to her room, while Ron went downstairs and headed into the living room.

"Good morning, my Lord" Ron greeted Lord Greengrass, and he saw that his mentor was wearing fine black silk robes. "You look great, by the way" Ron grinned, and Lord Greengrass chuckled.

"Thank you for the compliment, I suppose" Lord Greengrass smiled. "You don't look too bad yourself, and I like the pin. It suits your Uniform. Might I inquire where you got it from?"

"Oh, Daphne gave it to me just then" Ron lied, and Lord Greengrass nodded. Need to let her know, otherwise we could get trapped. No one is meant to know of our involvement.

"Well, it looks perfect. Now, let's go over what we discussed last night. First and foremost Ron, remember our plan. Head down, and avoid eye contact at all costs. Secondly, you will be giving your interview before the matches start."

"I know, my Lord" Ron nodded, they had discussed this last night. "As last year's champion, it is required of me. And I'm not meant to comment on the Veelas whatsoever, even if they ask me. Oh, and I need to mention your patronage."

"Good man" Lord Greengrass smiled. "And the last thing?"

"Don't look into Madame Olympe Maxime's eyes" Ron replied. "She can look into my mind wandlessly, and that could give away our strategies." Merlin help her if she does manage to use Legilimency on me, the Entity did Dumbledore in without breaking a sweat. It'll eat her alive.

"Indeed" Lord Greengrass nodded. "Now I know that even if you don't see the Veelas, you'll feel their concentrated allures focusing on you. But you must try and resist, Ron. Do your absolute best to not give in, understand?"

"I do" Ron nodded, his voice a bit shaky. The truth was that he was terrified right now, he had no idea what he was walking into. Nor did he know how he was supposed to resist them.

"It's alright to be worried" Lord Greengrass said as he put his right hand on Ron's left shoulder. "I will not hold this loss against you, remember that. I'm proud of you for not backing off when our enemies use cheap tactics, it speaks volumes about your character."

"Thank you, my Lord" Ron managed a smile, and Lord Greengrass moved his right hand to Ron's left cheek.

"We will all be there, Ron" Lord Greengrass said softly. "You're not alone in this, remember that as well."

"We're ready, husband" came Mary's voice, and Ron turned to see the Mary and her daughters. They were all wearing beautiful dresses, and they had their hair done up into gorgeous buns. Astoria wore a white frilly dress that suited her, Mary wore a dark red dress that hugged her figure, and Daphne wore a green dress that made her look regal. She looks amazing. Ron shook his head lightly, he needed to concentrate on the Tournament.

"Then let's be off, shall we?" Lord Greengrass said, and then he went to the fireplace and took a pinch of Floo-powder. "Beauxbatons Academy of Magic" Lord Greengrass called clearly, and then he cast the powder into the flames. They roared as they turned green, and Lord Greengrass went through. Mary and Astoria followed after him, and this left Ron and Daphne behind.

"Two things" Ron said quickly, and Daphne blinked at him. "One, you look amazing. Two, I told your father that you gave me this pin just today. Got it?" Daphne blushed at his compliment, and then she nodded. "You go first, I'll follow." Daphne suddenly smiled, and then she leaned forward and pecked his lips. What was that for?

"For good luck" Daphne smiled, and then she went through the fire. Ron shook his head clear again, it was time to concentrate on nothing but chess. Ron held his back straight, and then he marched into the green blaze.

---

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Beauxbatons – Early Morning)

People… Lots of people… That's the first thing that Ron noticed as he stepped through the flames. There were people everywhere, and Ron's stomach tightened. It's impossible for me to keep my head down, isn't it? How the fuck am I supposed to avoid all these eyes? Ron quickly made his way over to the Greengrass Family, and he noticed the girls looking around in wonder. Seeing that, Ron did the same thing. They were in a Grand Hall of some sort, and the ceiling was covered with brilliant bright lights that were putting on a show for people. Ron also noticed that this Grand Hall was much smaller than Hogwarts' Great Hall, and for some childish reason, that brought a smirk to his face.

"Let's head into the Gardens. That is where the Tournament is being held" Lord Greengrass ordered, and Lady Greengrass entangled her right arm with her husband's left.

"Astoria, take Ron's right arm" Mary instructed. "Daphne, take his left arm. Stay right behind us, and make sure that none of these creatures approach him." The girls moved and entangled themselves with Ron, and Ron was honestly surprised. I understand why they're doing this, but I wish that they told me beforehand. Not that I mind, of course.

They all began making their way through the crowd, and Ron couldn't stop himself from looking around. Braziers emanating golden flames were attached to the walls of the Grand Hall, and Ron could see Fire-Fairies dancing in the flames. The bright lights danced all over the ceiling, and Ron was utterly captivated by their silky smooth movements. And then, his eyes fell on the Wood-Nymphs that flew through the lights, laughing and dancing with each other.

"Wow…" Tori sighed in awe. "Is Hogwarts this beautiful?"

"Not quite" Daphne replied, her voice showing her utter astonishment. "But Hogwarts is much bigger, and it has its own type of beauty."

"I honestly prefer this kind of beauty" Ron admitted, and then he leaned over to whisper in Daphne's right ear. "You reckon they have a fifty foot Basilisk in this place?" Daphne laughed at that, and Tori too leaned in.

"What's so funny?" Tori asked with a smile.

"I was telling her how adorable you look in that dress" Ron replied.

"Do I really?" Tori grinned.

"You truly do" Ron replied truthfully, and Tori gave his right arm a squeeze. She wasn't tall enough to entangle her arm with his properly, and Ron could see that she was having a lot of trouble. "Here, Tori. Hold my hand instead."

"Thanks" Tori blushed a bit, and then she took his gloved hand with her left one. "You're too tall…"

"I'll take that as a compliment" Ron chucked. Never had he imagined in his childhood that he'd be walking through Beauxbatons with two beautiful girls at his sides, and that they'd be holding onto him like this. Life sure had changed, and Ron had no intention of going back.

"Woah, look at those diamond knights!" Tori exclaimed, and she pointed her right index finger at the giant knights that were lined against the wall that had the exit door. Ron's eyes popped open in wonder as he saw them standing there, and he even felt a bit intimidated. They were massive, and they seemed to be alive. They held their noble stances while they watched the crowd of people, their massive diamond great-swords a warning to all. They must be at least fifteen feet tall, and their swords are just as massive.

"They're made of ice, Tori" Daphne told her sister. "Never melting ice, to be exact. I read that the sixth Headmaster of Beauxbatons created them to watch over his students after he passed on, isn't that amazing?"

"So they still follow his will?" Ron asked, he was truly amazed.

"According to Beauxbatons' history books, they do" Daphne smiled at the knights.

"Never melting ice" Ron muttered, what kind of powerful magic was this? As they walked through the exit, Ron nodded at one of the knights. And much to his delight, the knight nodded back. "Ah, did you see that?!" Ron laughed, and the girls laughed too. As they stepped out into the grounds leading to the Gardens, Ron's breath was caught in his throat. He heard the girls draw in sharp breaths, and then they exhaled in awe.

The Palace of Beauxbatons was surrounded by formal Gardens and vast lawns created out of the mountainous landscape, and Ron saw that there were witches and wizards here from all over the world. And not just witches and wizards, there were also Magical Creatures just roaming freely amongst them.

"It's a Unicorn, Daphne look" Tori cooed, and Ron turned his head to his right. There was a Unicorn just lying down on the well-maintained lawn, and it was surrounded by excited children. Their blood Curses you with a half-life, that's what Firenze told me.

"Oh Merlin, Ron close your eyes" Daphne squealed, and she put her left hand over his eyes.

"She's naked!" Tori laughed, and Ron was honest-to-Merlin bewildered.

"Who's naked?" Ron asked quickly. Is it a Veela? Forget the Tournament, let me have a look!

"It's a Dryad, Ron" Daphne muttered. "A really big chested one…" LET ME SEE HER, WOMAN!

"Let him see, Daphne" Tori laughed. "Why is she so white though, and why is her hair green?"

"They're meant to be like that, Tori" Daphne replied in irritation.

"The French are known to be avid admirers of beauty" Lady Greengrass told the children. "Daphne! Remove your hand from his face, we are in public."

"But mother, that's a naked woman" Daphne argued.

"I am sure that he will live" Mary responded. "Remove your hand before our Veela hosts take offense." Daphne's hand left his face, and Ron blinked at the sudden appearance of light. Ron felt Daphne's hold over his left arm tighten, and that's when he spotted the naked Dryad. She was just walking around in the nude, her womanly beauty on full display. Dear Merlin, that's just… I want to study here instead. Fuck Hogwarts. These kids grow up seeing naked beauties like that, while I had to fight a fucking Basilisk? Where is the justice?!

"Her chest is too big, and her hair is stupid" Daphne muttered under her breath, but Ron couldn't bring himself to agree. The Dryad was nothing but beautiful, and she walked with a type of grace that made her seem one with the land. Not to mention that she had singing birds hovering around her, and a crowd of people admiring her beauty.

"Hey!" Tori suddenly laughed, and Ron looked to his right and saw that a bright Fairy had perched itself on Tori's right shoulder. "Hello there, little one" Tori cooed. "Want to be mine?" The Fairy flew up at that, and it kissed Tori's right cheek. The little girl giggled wildly as the Fairy flew off to another child, no doubt trying to spread cheer and joy. Fairies are known to love children the most, so it makes sense. As they finally approached the Gardens, Ron was even more awed to see a Sphynx guarding the gate.

"What's that?" Daphne pointed at the Sphynx. It had the body of an overly-large lion: great clawed paws and a long yellowish tail ending in a brown tuft. Its head, however, was that of a woman. She turned her long, almond-shaped eyes on them as they approached, a purr escaping from her throat.

"My, my…" the Sphynx said, her voice almost bestial in nature. "Such a pretty family… Tell me, what bring you here?" Ron felt Astoria tense, and so he gripped her hand more tightly.

"We are here to spectate my apprentice" Lord Greengrass replied, and then he gestured for Ron to approach. Ron left the girls and stepped up in front of the beast, his heartbeat increasing steadily. "Here is his pass" Lord Greengrass said as he presented a piece of parchment to the Sphynx. The lion-woman observed the parchment, and then she turned her gaze on Ron.

"Come here, boy" the Sphynx purred. "Let me take in your scent." Ron took a few steps forward, and he barely kept his fear in check. Those are some dangerous looking claws, lion-lady. The Sphynx sniffed him, and Ron felt quite disturbed by the ordeal. It was still the head of a woman that was sniffing him, and he couldn't stop himself from thinking about the time when Samantha had sniffed him. "You are… clean. You may pass unimpeded."

"Come" Lord Greengrass said as he guided everyone past the gate, and Ron felt the Sphynx's eyes lingering on him.

"Merlin that was weird" Ron muttered. "What did she mean by 'clean'?"

"She was checking to see if you had any potions in your system" Lord Greengrass told him.

"They can do that by sniffing people?" Daphne asked.

"They are still beasts, Daphne" Lord Greengrass replied. "One's with a mind sharper than most people's, truth be told. Just be grateful that she didn't start asking us riddles, most of us would have died on the spot." Died on the spot? I don't know whether I should be amazed, or fearful.

"Husband" Lady Greengrass suddenly said as they both stopped walking. Ron and the girls were forced to stop as well, and Ron wondered what Mary had seen. "Headmistress Maxime is right over there, and she has a flock of her creatures with her." Ron shot a quick look to where Mary was looking, and his jaw dropped.

"That's a whole lot of woman…" Ron muttered as he gazed at the giant Headmistress. Madame Olympe Maxime towered over her female students, who were all dressed in light blue silk robes that resembled a uniform of sorts. And they were all beautiful beyond words… Ron felt a soft jolt of pain run through his scalp, and he grimaced and looked away. Is that the allure? Why does it hurt?

"Merlin… that's her?" Daphne mumbled.

"Does she eat her students?" Tori asked.

"Ron, keep your head down" Lord Greengrass said suddenly. "Girls, don't let them approach him."

"Yes, father" both girls said together. They began moving, and Ron kept his eyes on the ground. I bet I look like a massive tosser right now, and those girls get to see it. Another jolt of pain sparked through his head, and Ron let out a groan.

"Ron?" Daphne asked in worry, her grip on his left arm tightening.

"Just keep moving, he's fine" Lord Greengrass ordered. They made their way into the Junior League Tournament competitors' area, and Lord Greengrass stopped them all. "Ron and I will go on alone, Mary take the girls to our seats."

"Of course, love" Mary replied, and then she turned to her daughters and Ron. "Good luck Ron, do your best and know that we're proud of you for being here."

"Thank you, my Lady" Ron replied, his eyes still on the ground.

"Come, you two" Mary said, and the girls let go of Ron.

"Good luck, Ron" Tori wished.

"Don't let them ruin your day, alright?" Daphne said firmly.

"I won't" Ron replied. And then, the three female Greengrasses left.

"Come along, Ron" Lord Greengrass said. "We need to get you to that interview."

---

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Interview at Beauxbatons – Morning)

"Hello, Mr. Weasley" the female reporter greeted, they were sitting down in a secluded corner. Lord Greengrass had left Ron alone with the female reporter, this was an exclusive after all. "My name Helena Crane, I'm with the British Daily Prophet. And I'll be doing this exclusive with you today. It will be featured on the International column, page eight, and on the Sports column, page nine. It is a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine, Miss. Crane" Ron gave her his best smile, and she smiled back. She looks really young, so I'll just stick to calling her Miss. Crane.

"Now, let's get right into it" Helena said with an excited voice. "How old are you, Mr. Weasley?"

"I am thirteen years old" Ron replied truthfully, and she began jotting it down. "I turned thirteen on the first of March."

"I see" Helena said as she finished writing that down. "So you had just turned twelve when you competed in last year's tournament?"

"Yes" Ron nodded.

"And you won with a perfect record, is that right?"

"Yes, that is also true" Ron nodded again.

"And you have yet to take a loss on your already impressive record?" Helena asked, an impressed smile on her face.

"No, I have not suffered any losses" Ron answered.

"You also competed in another tournament in France a few months ago, and I am told that you won that rather easily" Helena stated. "Any comments on that statement?" Remember to be humble, Ron.

"I wouldn't say that it was easy" Ron replied. "It was a much smaller competition, with only eight total competitors. I only played three matches in total, and my mind was definitely challenged in those matches."

"I see" Helena nodded as she wrote it all down. Ron didn't know why, but her constant note-taking was making him nervous. "And what are your thoughts on this year's Junior League Tournament?" Here we go, we're getting closer to the Veela questions. I just know it.

"So far?" Ron smiled his best smile. "My thoughts are that Beauxbatons is absolutely gorgeous." Helena laughed at that, and she wrote it down.

"Are you talking about the Academy, or its student body?" Helena asked.

"I am talking about both" Ron replied smoothly. "As for the Tournament, I've come here to try my best. And that is what I intend to do."

"And are you worried that your efforts will be affected by the presence of the Veela students?" Helena asked, and Ron kept his calm demeanor.

"I have never felt their allure before, so I cannot truly comment on that. But this is their school, and I believe that they have every right to be here" Ron basically repeated what Lord Greengrass had told him to say. Helena seemed to like his answer though, and she jotted it down quickly.

"Is your mentor, Lord Greengrass, worried about the Veela presence?" Helena asked. Stop with the Veela questions.

"Lord Greengrass has been nothing but understanding with me" Ron smiled. "He is patient, nurturing, and he cares a great deal about my well-being. He has told me to do my best, and to show the world what I have learned under his patronage. He has made no comments on the Veela community to me." Helena nodded slowly, and she jotted his answer down.

"Now, let's move onto something else" Helena said, and Ron blinked at her. What? Something else? "Is it true that Hogwarts has officially labeled you as a Prodigy?" This shite again?

"Many of my Professors have made that comment, as has the Daily Prophet" Ron answered.

"Do you consider yourself a Prodigy?" Helena asked. Fuck no, I'm basically using other people's knowledge to further myself.

"I know that I enjoy my studies a great deal, but I've never really called myself a Prodigy" Ron replied.

"Do you have any comments on the attacks that took place at your school this year?" Helena asked. Fucking hell…

"All I know is that I do not like to speak about them, especially because I was one of the victims" Ron replied honestly.

"I understand" Helena smiled softly. "One last question, and then we can wrap this up. Tell me Mr. Weasley, do you mind if we attach your list of accomplishments onto our interview."

"I don't mind at all" Ron smiled. "Though I would like to know which accomplishments you are referring to, Miss. Crane."

"Freeing Sirius Black, proving that Barty Crouch Snr made a mistake by condemning an innocent man without a trial, your role in the discovery of a believed to be deceased Death Eater, your impressive record in Wizard's Chess, and the fact that you slew a Mountain Troll singlehandedly at the age of eleven" Helena replied, and Ron blinked at the last one. "I've done my research into you, Mr. Weasley. And I must say, I recommend that you let me tell the world of your remarkable feats." Some fucking student no doubt told people, who told other people, and now everyone will know. "We would also like to inform our readers that you are friends with the world famous, Harry Potter. And that you saved his life in your first year."

"I see…" Ron said softly. She doesn't know about me attacking Harry? How does she not know that? She found out about the Troll, didn't she? "I will allow it if you only list those accomplishments, nothing else."

"That was the plan, Mr. Weasley" Helena smiled, and Ron blinked at her. Plan? Oh shite… Lord Greengrass is behind this interview, isn't he? He's no doubt payed her off to sing nothing but praises about me. And that's how she knows so much already.

"Then by all means, do as planned" Ron smiled, and Helena blinked at him.

"Sharp boy" she suddenly chuckled. "I can see why they call you a Prodigy. This interview will be in tomorrow's Daily Prophet."

"I look forward to reading it" Ron chuckled. Helena gave him a parting nod, and then she left. After she was gone, Lord Greengrass rejoined Ron.

"How did it go?" Lord Greengrass asked, and Ron smiled at him.

"It went just like you planned" Ron replied, and Lord Greengrass just stared at Ron for a few seconds.

"Are you upset?" Lord Greengrass asked, and Ron shook his head.

"I just don't understand why you didn't tell me" Ron shrugged as he stood up.

"The interview was real, Ron" Lord Greengrass responded. "All I did was give her an incentive to write about your accomplishments."

"Which you told her about" Ron added.

"Yes, which I told her about" Lord Greengrass nodded. "I know you aren't one to throw around your accomplishments, but I believe that you should throw some around."

"You said that our relationship only works on absolute trust" Ron reminded his mentor. "This is not trust, my Lord. You did this without telling me."

"I know, forgive me" Lord Greengrass smiled softly. "I won't do it again, you have my word."

"Thank you" Ron smiled at his mentor. "And just between us, I would have agreed to do this if you had asked me."

"You would have?" Lord Greengrass asked.

"Yes, I would have" Ron replied honestly. "If you can't have people's love and approval, then you should at least have their respect." Lord Greengrass smiled at his own words. And telling people this will earn me respect, because those are respectable feats. Even if I got them due to luck and my power to see the future.

---

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Tournament Begins)

Ron stared at his shoes. He just stared right at his well-polished shoes, and he thought of nothing but chess. He sat there recounting chess plays in his mind, while the announcer declared the Tournament's rules. He had heard them before, and so he decided to not pay them any attention. But he didn't fail to notice that the announcer was a woman, as were all people who were looking for cheaters. The only cheaters here are the bastards who are sitting in the stands. The entire Beauxbatons student body was here, male and female. And they were just staring right at the competitors.

Ron could feel predatory eyes on him, but he managed to ignore them for now. What he couldn't ignore was the faint pain shooting up the back of his head. It was an odd kind of pain, it felt alive. Like it was crawling from the back of his neck and up towards his brain, and it made Ron grimace. Was this what the allure felt like? It couldn't be… Lord Greengrass had mentioned that being under the allure felt like bliss, but Ron wasn't feeling bliss. He was feeling genuine pain that seemed to be increasing with time. Ron rubbed the back of his head, his eyes still on his shoes.

Bright camera flashes went off from every direction, and that pissed Ron off. Lord Greengrass had explained that the French Ministry had pulled out all the stops this year, and it was because they knew that they were going to get a French Champion. That pissed Ron off to no end, they were blatantly cheating, and no one could say a damn word. The contract was signed three fucking years ago, and everything at this point was hearsay. If people blamed the Veelas, they'd sound like hateful bigots. If people blamed the French Ministry, the French Ministry would just deny their accusations and label them as 'sore losers'. There was no way to fight this nonsense, the French Ministry made sure of it. They have a damn Sphynx sniffing people outside, that's how far they're taking this. Another jolt of pain ran up his spine and into his brain, and Ron winced.

"Competitors, please take your seats" the announcer called, and Ron looked at his token. Number twenty three. At least I got a decent starting seat this time around. Ron got up and made his way towards table twelve in order to face off against number twenty four. He bumped into a few other blokes on the way, they too were walking around with this heads down. This is fucking ridiculous is what this is. Ron grit his teeth as another jolt of pain crawled up his scalp, this one was worse than the others. Ron took his seat, and a fourteen year old boy sat in front of him. They both had their eyes on the board, but Ron could see the boy fidgeting non-stop. Is he in pain too? "Begin!" the announcer called, and Ron made the first move as he was playing white.

The game was… It wasn't really a game. Ron felt several jolts of pain that made him wince, and made his vision blurry with tears. The other boy however, was groaning and moaning. Ron quickly took the central position on the map, but his opponent's erratic playstyle was just plain confusing. Ron could see the boy shooting glances at the Beauxbatons stand, so Ron realized that his opponent wasn't all there. Ron landed a checkmate around the ten minute mark, and he stood up to shake the boy's hand. But the boy didn't stand up, he instead shook Ron's hand while sitting there with a guilty look. Does he have an erection? Oh, what the fuck?! Ron quickly made his way to his waiting seat, and he sat down and clutched his head in his hands.

"Fuck me…" Ron whispered through clenched teeth, and another jolt of pulsating pain traveled up his scalp. What kind of headache is this?

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Final Match of the Day)

He was done… He was going to forfeit the next match, the pain was unbearable. He had managed four wins today, and that was enough. He had gone up against male competitors so far, and each match was nothing more than a cruel joke. Ron was in absolute agony, but the other boys seemed to be in a state of bliss. His last match wasn't even a fucking match, the boy had just stared at the Beauxbatons stand the entire time. The boy's mother had started screaming at the Veelas, calling them whores and whatnot, and therefore she was 'escorted' out. Ron won by default because the boy was disqualified, and so Ron had limped back to his seat. His vision was becoming hazy, and his eyelids were drooping. He was going to forfeit the next match, he couldn't take this any longer.

"Mr. Weasley" came a soft voice, and Ron looked up to see a woman's blurry shoes. "Your next match is about to begin…" Is that sympathy I hear? Ron winced as he got up, and another jolt of excruciating pain ran up his scalp. Ron gasped, and he felt a steadying hand on his left shoulder. "Stop resisting their allures, please" the announcer whispered, a sense of insistence in her voice. I'm not resisting shite! Their allures are hurting me! And I don't even know why!

"Help me to my seat please, I don't know where to go…" Ron muttered, and the announcer held his shoulders as she guided him to his seat. Ron could hear people yelling and arguing that this was blatant cheating, but those arguments fell on deaf ears. It's funny, I don't hear a single voice with a French accent. But then again, why would they fight against their own Ministry's underhanded tactics? Ron was helped into his seat, and he looked ahead for a split second. Blurry, it's all just blurry... He could make out the outline of a girl, and so he looked down immediately. Another gasp escaped his lips as the worst jolt of pain so far ripped its way into his brain, and Ron felt a couple of tears escape his eyes.

"Do you remember me?" came a distorted voice, and Ron blinked rapidly at the board. "I'm Olivia Jones, we played in the finals of that Paris Competition. No? Don't remember me? Well, I remember you… The unbeatable Prodigy" Olivia spat, and Ron rubbed his forehead with his gloved hand. "I'm going to break your record, just wait and see." I need to forfeit… Ron winced as he felt his forehead throb, and then he heard a loud yell. Ron saw her move her blurry white pawn forward, and so he knew that the game had started.

Ron wanted to forfeit, but the words wouldn't come out. This was his perfect record on the line, his perfect record. Chess was the one thing that he excelled in by himself, no one had just given him the skill to play this game. No visions from some piece of shite demon Entity, no hand-me-down notes, and no lucky breaks. It was all hard-work, his hard-work. He had spent hours and hours slaving away at those puzzles, and he had spent hours thinking about his strategies. And he refused to just give that up now. So Ron moved forward a pawn with his shaking left hand, his breathing shallow.

It felt like there was a pressure building up in his skull, and it was pressing against the back of his eyes. Ron genuinely feared that his eyes were going to pop out and just roll onto the board, but maybe that wouldn't be so bad. Maybe that would alleviate this pressure… By the ten minute mark, Ron couldn't understand the board anymore. It was all just blurry, and his headache was set in stone. There were no more jolts, it was just a constant pain. Ron moved the pieces around, but he had no clue what he was doing anymore. He just moved a piece when he saw her blurry hand move a piece. And then, he heard her say the words that killed his perfect record.

"Checkmate" Olivia said, the joy in her voice making her voice less distorted. All Ron could do was stare at the board, his hands shaking and his eyes blinking rapidly. "This is the part where you shake my hand, and congratulate me." Ron put his gloved hand up, but he couldn't stand. She gripped his hand tightly, and she squeezed his hand until it hurt a bit. Ron didn't have the strength to retaliate, all he could do was stare at the board. "I guess they can now call you the 'Beatable Prodigy' instead… And I'll be remembered as the person who beat you." She let go of his hand, and it dropped to his side.

He saw a blurry shape move past him, and he figured that she had left. My record… I lost it… Ron could barely bring himself to be upset over his 'perfect' record, the pain had just numbed his mind at this point. He felt like his brain was shutting down, but then he felt the pressure begin to ease. He just sat there quietly, his headache subsiding. Did this mean that they weren't using their allures on him anymore? Good riddance… He had no idea what was happening to him, why was he hurting while all the other boys were getting erections? Never thought I'd think that sentence. Ron felt his eyelids begin to close, but a firm hand landed on his right shoulder.

"Your mentor wants me to bring you out, Mr. Weasley" the announcer whispered. "Come, let me help you." Ron just drifted onto his feet, and he felt himself being shuffled out of the playing area. He could hear voices, but they were extremely distorted. Had his ear-drums ruptured? He had no idea, he was mostly just asleep at this point.

Everything was hazy after that. Ron remembered hearing Tori and Daphne's worried voices, he heard Mary's outrage, he heard people talking and saying his name, and he remembered throwing up on Lord Greengrass' robes. And then, he remembered being under the soft covers of his guest bed.

---

Sebastian Greengrass' POV

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Greengrass Holiday House – Evening)

Sebastian had just changed his robes, and he had to hold the counter to steady himself. The allures, although not pointed at the spectators, had been overwhelming to say the least. Multiple fights had broken out because husbands were openly gawking at the Veelas while their wives sat not two feet from them. Sebastian was ashamed to admit that even his gaze had veered, but Mary's comforting hold on his arm kept him in check. If she hadn't been there, Sebastian shuddered at the thought.

They had arrived home an hour ago, and Ron was currently being checked over by Healer Bernard. The boy had left the entire Tournament lost for words, including Sebastian. Ron had resisted. Somehow, by some unearthly method, Ron had resisted them all. For hours on end no less. If Sebastian hadn't been there to see it, he would have never believed it. His apprentice had been under a great deal of mental strain, which was visible to all, but Madame Maxime hadn't backed off. If anything, Ron resisting her flock had only steeled her resolution to win. And now she knew that the boy was a great threat to her plans.

While Sebastian had all but carried Ron away from the Tournament, he had spotted Madam Maxime trying to make her way to him with her Veelas in tow. Mary had lost her temper, and Sebastian was forced to drag his entire family through the Floo Network. Luckily for Sebastian, Maxime's way was blocked by angry mothers and wives who had demanded that she take her flock elsewhere. Ron had earned quite a lot of notoriety today. But then again, what thirteen year old boy possessed the willpower needed to fight off fifty Veela allures at once?

"Daddy, mummy is calling you downstairs" came Tori's voice from beyond the bathroom door. Sebastian walked over and opened the door, and he saw Tori's extremely worried face. She's been crying.

"Love, Ron will be fine with some rest" Sebastian said as he kneeled in front of her in order to clean her cheeks.

"Are you sure?" Tori asked. "Mummy's really scared, and so is Daphne."

"He will be fine" Sebastian told her, though he himself wasn't so sure. "He just vomited because the Floo jump upset him, that's all."

"Okay…" Tori nodded, but he knew that she didn't really believe him. So instead of lying more to his daughter, Sebastian took her hand and walked downstairs. They went into the living room, and Sebastian immediately saw Mary pacing back and forth in front of the fireplace. Daphne was sitting on the love-seat, her face covered with her hands.

"Sebastian!" Mary stopped pacing when she saw him. "Wir müssen ihn jetzt rausziehen!" German? So she's gone into a panic, which means that I need to calm her down first.

"Love, it's alright" Sebastian hugged his wife as Tori took a seat with Daphne. "Mary, calm yourself" Sebastian whispered. "You're scaring our daughters."

"What are we going to tell his parents, Sebastian?" Mary whispered back as she held him tightly. "They trusted us to take care of him, and now he's…" she trailed off.

"We don't know what he is, let Healer Bernard do his work" Sebastian whispered. "Daphne and Astoria need us, Mary. We have to show them our strength so that they can find their own."

"You're right" Mary sniffled, and then she broke away from him. Sebastian rubbed his face, and then he joined his wife in comforting their daughters.

---

Monday March 23rd, 1993 (Greengrass Holiday House – Late Evening)

"Bernard" Sebastian stood up and greeted the Healer as he stepped into the room, the man was an old acquaintance. Bernard had often made house calls for Sebastian whenever Tori got sick as a child, but now he worked in France. But that had worked out for Sebastian today. "How is he?"

"He is still unconscious, but I've administered a Sleeping Draught nonetheless" Bernard said, he sounded quite tired. "Sebastian, you said that he resisted over fifty Veelas… Were you exaggerating?"

"No, I wasn't" Sebastian sighed, and Bernard took a seat in front of the family. They were all sitting on one couch, the girls sandwiched between him and his wife.

"Remarkable" Bernard muttered. "Truly astonishing…"

"But?" Sebastian asked, and Bernard shifted in his seat a bit. "Bernard, just tell me."

"Perhaps the little ones should not be here" Bernard suggested, and Sebastian's stomach dropped. Merlin, it must be really bad.

"Girls, go to your rooms at once" Sebastian ordered.

"He's my friend, so I'm not going anywhere" Daphne responded, real steel in her voice. "Plus, I know him better than all of you. If he's hurt, then I need to know."

"Then I'm not going away either" Tori joined in. Sebastian frowned at this open defiance, and he was about to shut it down when Mary shot him a pleading look. She wants them to stay? Sebastian looked at Mary's pleading look, and he slowly gave up the idea of yelling at his daughters for refusing his command.

"Bernard, please tell us what you found" Mary asked the healer, and Sebastian looked to him as well.

"Well, I found this" Bernard said slowly as he opened his briefcase. "Tell me, what do you know of MRI machines?"

"What?" Sebastian blinked.

"It is a Muggle creation, and it allows them to scan the anatomy of an individual in order to find irregularities" Bernard explained. "We have been working on spells to copy their ingenious creation, though our spells aren't half as effective. But I was able to take two 'photos' of his brain, and transfer them onto these parchments. Here is the picture of his brain right now" Bernard said as he placed a piece of parchment on the coffee table in between them. Sebastian looked at the black and white picture, and it made little to no sense to him.

"Explain this to me" Sebastian ordered.

"This picture basically shows that his brain is in a relatively calm and stable condition" Bernard said. "Mostly everything is as it should be."

"Mostly?" Mary muttered. "What does that mean?"

"I will explain that soon, here is the picture of his brain when I first came in" Bernard said as he put the other piece of parchment on the table. Sebastian stared at it, and he saw that it was mostly just white with very little black areas. "This shows that his brain was severely inflamed when I first started my work."

"Inflamed?" Sebastian asked.

"It means that his brain was overworked, and that is not good for someone his age" Bernard told them. "Inflammation of the brain damages and destroys brain cells, speeding aging and atrophy of one's brain." The girls drew in sharp breaths, and Sebastian put his left arm around Daphne. "Tell me, how was he acting at the Tournament?"

"He was in pain" Daphne answered quickly, her voice shaking.

"He was growing more and more agitated" Sebastian elaborated. "It was like he wasn't all there, and by the end, he was just going through the motions."

"That is because inflammation causes neurons to fire off more slowly" Bernard nodded slowly. "That fits with my diagnoses."

"And what is your diagnoses?" Mary asked.

"Just a few more things I need to know first" Bernard said. "How does he normally act?"

"Normally?" Mary asked.

"How does he act around you all?" Bernard asked. "On a daily basis, that is."

"He's usually a happy soul" Mary answered. "He laughs a lot, makes jokes, and is rather hard-working." Bernard frowned a bit at that, and then he looked at Daphne.

"Child, you said that you know him best" Bernard spoke to Daphne, and Sebastian felt her tense. "Do you attend Hogwarts with him?"

"Yes, he's in my year" Daphne replied softly.

"How does he act at school?" Bernard asked. "Is he usually a happy soul? Or is he easily angered? Is he prone to feeling anxiety? Do his moods just change on a whim? Does he act irrationally sometimes? In ways that you can't understand or explain?"

"Hold on, what kind of questions are these?" Sebastian frowned at the healer, but he felt Daphne tense even more. "Daphne…?" But Daphne didn't say anything, she just kept staring at the pictures of Ron's brain. "Daphne Greengrass, answer the man's questions" Sebastian ordered, and Daphne nodded slowly with a sniffle.

"All of those things" Daphne whimpered. "Sometimes he's really happy, and then all of a sudden he is furious. He goes into a panic sometimes, but none of us know why. He even had a panic attack early on in the year…" Sebastian's mouth dropped open in shock, how did he not know all of this? Is this why Dumbledore wants him to see a Mind-Healer? Did the old man catch onto these symptoms? "And lately he can't sleep without a Sleeping Draught… And his mood swings have been getting more and more frequent too…" Daphne sniffled again.

"Merlin…" came Mary's voice. "Poor boy…"

"Judging from what you've just told me" Bernard said firmly. "I'd say that his brain has been under a lot of strain long before this tournament even started. Here, look at these tiny black spots on both pictures" Bernard said as he pointed them out, and the entire family looked at them. "That… That is brain damage." The silence was deafening, and it lasted for almost a ten seconds. "It is not as severe as it sounds, it just means that he needs professional help. Help that I can't give him."

"What's the cause?" Sebastian managed to ask.

"I saw his scars, Sebastian" Bernard told him, and Sebastian closed his tired eyes. The attack from the Dark Lord.

"Scars?" Tori sniffled. "What scars?"

"Hush, love" Mary said softly. "Let the good healer speak."

"A spell backfired on him at the end of his first year" Sebastian lied.

"Brain injury is the most common cause for damage like this" Bernard explained. "But his symptoms go beyond just a brain injury… You say that he is hard-working? How hard-working is he? What are his grades like?"

"Top of his class" Sebastian sighed. "He works to be the best in everything that he does…"

"I see" Bernard nodded. "One of the more common causes for brain inflammation is chronic stress. That is my diagnoses. The boy suffers from chronic stress, all of his symptoms point to it. Irrational behavior, mood swings, severe anxiety, general unhappiness, angry outbursts, and perhaps even a sense of loneliness or isolation."

"Loneliness?" Daphne asked suddenly.

"Yes, a feeling of being isolated is extremely common in these cases" Bernard replied. "Though I doubt he would ever show it to anyone else, his need to be the best won't allow that. Sebastian, this boy needs professional help." Bernard then pulled out a card from his briefcase. "Poppy Pomfrey is an old acquaintance of mine, and she works at Hogwarts."

"Madam Pomfrey?" Daphne muttered. "Ron got a note from her very recently, but he said that it was just a sick note."

"I see" Bernard nodded, and he put the card back in the briefcase. "I will write down a report on everything that I've heard, and I will pass it along to her. He needs her help, make sure he gets it." With that, Bernard stood up.

"Thank you, Bernard" Sebastian stood up and shook the man's hand.

"There is no need for that" Bernard smiled. "I've left some Nutrition Potions by his bed-side, please make sure that he drinks them when he wakes up. He was severely exhausted from today's proceedings. Oh, and one more thing. It is the most… unusual thing that I've seen in a good while."

"What is it?" Sebastian asked.

"The boy's Magical Core was rather depleted" Bernard replied, his tone showing his confusion. "I've never seen anything like it… I think that the boy's body was using his own magic to resist the allures somehow, and that it was also helping him heal his inflamed brain."

"How's that possible?" Sebastian muttered, he was completely shaken by this.

"I don't know" Bernard shook his head. "But it is very similar to how children use accidental magic to heal their own injuries… That's the closest thing that I've seen to this. Truth be told, his own body did most of the healing. I only helped a little with my Potions. A good night's rest ought to restore him to his usual self, but I still recommend that he sees Pomfrey. His stress will burn him out otherwise."

"He'll see her" Sebastian promised. "Have no doubt about that. Also, can we get a copy of that report too? We need to show it to his parents, they need to know about this."

"Certainly" Bernard nodded. "Call me again if you need me."

"I will" Sebastian nodded.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

The Dream World

"What the fuck?" Ron muttered as he suddenly found himself standing in front of Hagrid's hut, it was completely colorless. "Am I at Hogwarts?" Ron gazed up at the sky, and he saw green, red, yellow, and blue hues of lights dancing around on a starless night. "Woah…" Ron's eyes widened, those lights seemed to be the only things in color in this place. They're so beautiful. Ron looked around, and he saw the Castle standing not too far from him. "I'm at Hogwarts? What is going on here?" A sudden pain shot throughout his body, and he let out a yelp. "Fuck! What was that?!"

Ron's eyes grew wider as he saw one of the towers crumble and collapse in on itself, but they grew wider when it suddenly began to repair itself. Did that tower crumbling down hurt me? Am I in a dream? Then it hit Ron, was he in the Dream World again? Sort of like that open field that he was in after his attack? Wait… Does that mean that the Entity is here too? Ron felt anxious at the thought, maybe he could sneak out of this place before running into it? But how do I sneak out? Ron rubbed the back of his head, he didn't even know how he got here.

"I was at the Tournament, and then…" Ron muttered to himself. "Then I lost, that's the last thing that I remember." Another tower began to crumble, and electrifying pain shot throughout his chest. "Ow…" Ron groaned as he rubbed his chest with his left hand. At least this answered one question, his sudden pangs of pain were happening because of this 'Dream Hogwarts' breaking down. Now I just need to figure out what's happening here. Ron slapped his cheeks, he wasn't going to get answers by just standing here.

Ron began making his way towards 'Hogwarts', and he was disturbed by the uncanny resemblance. It was exactly like the real Hogwarts, only it was all shades of grey instead. Ron gazed up at the lights again, and he felt calmed by their mesmerizing dance. As Ron made his way through the wooden bridge that led towards the back of the courtyard, he felt another pang of pain. This time he heard something heavy collapsing, but the pain subsided as he heard it being repaired. This is just insane. What is this place? And where is the Entity? As Ron made his way onto the courtyard, his need for answers clouded his sense of self-preservation.

"ENTITY?!" Ron yelled out. "Are you here?!" He was met with silence, and Ron frowned. What the fuck am I doing? And why am I disappointed that it's not here? Ron suddenly heard something slimy slithering in the shadows, and his blood froze in his veins. "Entity?" Ron squeaked. "Is that you?" Ron asked as he shot wild looks around himself. Fucking hell, I know that it's here. "Show yourself!" Ron commanded.

"Champion" came the monstrous voice of the Entity from behind Ron, and Ron saw a massive shadow being cast over him. Ron slowly turned around, and then he screamed in fright and fell on his arse. His eyes grew to the size of dinner plates as he saw the Basilisk looking down at him, its eyes crimson and toad-like. "We meet again, Champion."

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Boom, get cliff-hangered! Wait, that's not a word... Well, as some of you suspected, The Entity tends to step in whenever outside forces attempt to hinder the Champion's mind. But even it caved under the assault of that many Veelas, but that's mostly due to Ron's own inability to resist them.

Now, a couple of hints for the next chapter. Ron and Entity have a chat that isn't interrupted. Ron learns some disturbing news. The Red-Furred Goat makes a return, much to the Greengrass Family's annoyance. Madame Maxime and Fluer in the next Chapter. Blaise, Tracey, and Millie POVs too. So, big chapter... Oh well!

Oh, and I know that I haven't done a Hermione POV in a while, but she will have one before the break ends. Sorry to you Hermione fans, didn't mean to make you feel excluded =P Also, a Harry POV will be coming.

See you on Wednesday!