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.

81. Chapter 81 - Agendas

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 81 is here, and we have officially passed 1.5 Million words! Fucking milestone, eh? Thank you all for staying tuned thus far, and I hope that you continue to enjoy this Fic until the very end!

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 81 - Agendas

Ronald Weasley's POV

Monday 5th October, 1993 (Pomfrey's Office - After Classes)

"And you haven't told anyone yet?" Pomfrey asked, and Ron gave her a miserable nod. Her anger at his blatant disregard for her orders had worn off quickly once Ron had started talking about how much stress he was feeling lately.

"She says that it would be better to wait, but I really want to tell our friends," Ron sighed out, his body sinking into the couch.

"And why does she want to wait?" Pomfrey asked, her eyes scanning Ron's defeated state.

"None of us trust Malfoy," Ron shrugged. "Things in the House are not going well for us, especially because Flint is constantly trying to get a rise out of us. Daphne wants to keep our focus on the issues at hand, while I'm just… I'm being a little girl…"

"Showing emotions is not a weakness, Ron," Pomfrey reminded him, something that she had to do quite often now. "It's clear to me that you enjoy spending time with your girlfriend, and due to your high levels of stress, you see it as an escape as well."

"I'm not using her," Ron quickly defended himself. Though I do feel like I am sometimes.

"I never said that," Pomfrey said calmly. "What I am saying, however, is that you see Daphne as the one good thing in your life right now. You want more of this good thing, but you won't tell her about it because you believe that you are being 'weak' when you wear your heart on your sleeve. Communication is key in relationships, especially one this young. If you don't share your thoughts with her, then you will both be on different pages. Right?"

"Right," Ron nodded slowly, she did make a good point. Daphne's not an actual mind-reader. "So I just tell her that I want to tell people? I mean, I've done that before… But we just deviated from that conversation because it wasn't going anywhere." That, and snogging time was on the line.

"Tell her how you feel, Ron," Pomfrey corrected him. "Instead of telling her what you want, tell her why you want it."

"And that'll work?" Ron asked.

"Maybe… Maybe not," Pomfrey replied, and Ron gave her a deadpan look. "There are no easy answers in these sorts of situation. You must learn through trial and error. Both of you. From what you've told me, she's never once treated your emotions as a weakness."

"But what if she's right?" Ron asked, he was genuinely terrible at this. Learning sbout Magic is so much easier than learning about girls. "What if we should be focusing on our group instead of ourselves?"

"What if you're right?" Pomfrey asked in return. "What if celebrating some good news is what your group needs right now?"

"But it's only good news for Daphne and me," Ron countered.

"When your friends accomplish a set goal, do you not feel happy?" Pomfrey asked him.

"I do," Ron nodded to himself, he knew where this was going.

"Your friends will be happy for you, Ron," Pomfrey assured him. "And that happiness will elevate everyone's mood. I highly recommend that you talk with Daphne about this."

"Right… I'll do that," Ron said, although he wasn't sure when he'd get the chance to. Now I have to resort to kidnapping my own girlfriend. Great…

"Now, let's talk about your Family," Pomfrey said, she knew that she couldn't push him too far in one direction. Ron had a tendency to become stubborn whenever he felt like someone was giving him orders.

"My Family?" Ron asked, he didn't want to have this conversation. "My Family's doing fine. The Quibbler-"

"Ron," Pomfrey said gently, and Ron blinked at her. "I have heard the rumors of what happened between you and your sister." People in this school need to learn when to shut the fuck up. "How do you feel about what happened? Is your fight with Ginevra a key factor of your current stress levels?"

"It's not," Ron lied, though his dead expression gave him away. "I feel fine. She yelled at me, and as usual, I took it on the chin without uttering a word back. I don't even care about it."

"Are you sure?" Pomfrey asked, and Ron frowned deeply.

"Why would it bother me?" Ron snapped, but Pomfrey didn't even flinch. "She's just following in her mother's footsteps, isn't she? I don't give a fuck about that nonsense anymore. If they want to call me a fucking traitor in front of the whole school, then they can go right ahead. I don't care anymore. I'm done defending my honor from my own Family. They can either learn to appreciate me, or they can stay out of my way. They have no say in what sort person I turn out to be."

"You said that Ginny is 'following in her mother's footsteps'. What did you mean by that?" Pomfrey asked, he clearly needed to vent this venom that he was building up.

"I've told you about mum's letter after my sorting, haven't I?" Ron asked in return, and she nodded. "Well, what I haven't told you is that, to this day, she has never once apologized for it. Not even once. She simply pretends like she never sent it in order to avoid a difficult conversation. And no, this isn't anything new. My mother never apologizes… For anything! The only other person in my Family who pulls this shite is Ginny."

"And sure, I've seen Ginny apologize to mum and dad whenever she does something stupid," Ron went on, a permanent sneer on his face. "But she has never… ever… felt the need to apologize to the rest of us. Let me just tell you what her childhood was like… She was pampered from the moment she was born. New clothes, new toys, new room, new coat of paint on said room, the rights to steal our toys without retribution, the ability to throw tantrums in order to get whatever she wanted, and my own personal favorite, protection from my mother's worst chores. While we brothers fought against bloody Garden Gnomes, my sister drank cold pumpkin juice in the shade."

"But she certainly tried to be 'one of the boys'," Ron scoffed. "She'd start yelling if we didn't include her in anything, including chores, and would even go as far as to tattle on us. The few times that she helped us de-Gnome the Gardens, she was just a hindrance. But none of us could say a damn word about it, because we all knew that if we did, mum would go completely mental on us. Do you see the picture I'm painting? Are you beginning to see what I mean?"

"She has your mother's favor," Madam Pomfrey stated, and Ron gave her a curt nod.

"Ginny, despite being born in a Family poorer than dirt, has never wanted for anything," Ron hissed, his old jealousies sparking to life. "And I can understand why she'd need different clothes, she's a girl after all… But that didn't stop her from stealing my disgusting secondhand clothes when she wanted to roll around in the mud with us. She basically did as she pleased, whenever she pleased, and no one was allowed to tell her different. Percy wasn't allowed to scold her, the twins were too scared to prank her, Bill and Charlie were too old to spend time with her, and so I was left 'in charge' of her. But I was just a glorified nanny. It didn't matter that I was only a year older than her… All that mattered was that Ginny had a fucking slave to push around."

"Wait…" Ron suddenly laughed coldly. "I just remembered something… When I was eight, Luna and Pandora came over for my birthday. I was excited, of course, because Pandora always gave me these amazing honey pastries, while Luna actually spoke to me about Chess unlike my own siblings. But when the Lovegoods showed up, Ginny spent the entire day occupying Luna's attention. It was my birthday, and yet Ginny's only concern was that I was trying to steal her friend."

"Or perhaps she wanted you to spend your special day with her, and not the Lovegoods," Pomfrey spoke up.

"I spent every day with her!" Ron snapped, his face twisting in anger. "I sat quietly on a couch for most of my 'special' day, while Ginny and my mother spent theirs with the Lovegoods! It was the other way around!" Ron then took in a deep breath, he hated yelling in these sessions. "Ginny is just like mum… Stubborn, easy to anger, self-righteous, never apologetic, and just so damn sure of herself without even earning the right to be. My mum has spoiled Ginny for pretty much her entire life, and this is the result. Ginny always has to get her way, and instead of working hard to achieve her goals, she just expects things to go her way. Like they always have… She all but impersonates our mum, and I'm sick of it. I'm sick of being people's punching bag… The next time someone from my Family badmouths me, I'll fucking knock their head off."

"Ron, violence will achieve nothing," Pomfrey advised. "I understand your anger, and I understand your growing feelings of disillusionment, but violence will not solve anything. If anything, it will only serve to hinder you further."

"I don't care," Ron shook his head, his right eye fixed on the ground. "I'm just sick of it… I'm always the bad guy. Every time I decide to do anything, I have to spend hours wondering how my actions will piss off my Family this time around. When I bought The Quibbler, I saved Xeno from making a truly terrible mistake. Every single person saw that. Everyone but my mother, who screamed at me before outright just ignoring me. I'm thirteen, and I own an actual business now… But my Family just don't give a damn."

"I thought that your mother was supporting you now," Pomfrey said, and Ron simply shook his head again. I'm so tired… I need another dose of my medicine, or I'm going to fall asleep.

"She's just gone back to acting like everything is normal again," Ron mumbled, his gloved hand was starting to shake. "She didn't even apologize to me for her behavior… Again. She's just acting like it never happened. Just like Ginny is pretending like she doesn't see me as dirt."

"Ginny was in quite the state when you were brought in yesterday," Pomfrey told him. "I had to ask Cedric to keep her from spiraling into further panic when you were taken away."

"I was hurt," Ron shrugged tiredly. "She was worried in the moment, that's all. Pretty soon, her worries will fade. She'll forget all about yesterday and go back to hating me." I've seen this pattern too often now to simply ignore it. At this point, I'm the idiot who just won't learn. "I'll be a traitor in her eyes again before long… Trust me."

"Perhaps you should talk to her about this," Pomfrey suggested.

"No," Ron outright refused. "I'm always the one who goes back with his tail tucked in-between his legs. Either she apologizes to me, or she can just go…" Ron trailed off, his shaking hand rubbing his forehead. "Madam Pomfrey, I feel really tired all of sudden…" Madam Pomfrey blinked at him, and then she walked over and put her palm on his forehead.

"You're burning up," she told him, her features showing her concern. "Did you take your second dose today?"

"No…" Ron replied, and she clicked her tongue in annoyance. "I never got the chance to, that's all."

"Come, let's get you your Potion," Madam Pomfrey said, deciding to cut their session short. She was just glad that Ron had expelled some of his anger and frustration on her instead of his Family and friends. "We can also take off these bandages now."

---

Twenty Minutes Later

Once the bandages had been taken off, Ron nearly vomited due to the pungent smell coming off of his previously covered body. As it turned out, sweat and Spell-Burn Potions didn't mix well together. And on top of all of this, he had to drink down a Nutrition Potion as well. The only plus side was that he wasn't feeling as tired as he was during the end of his session, but he still felt rather miserable. I'm no doubt going to get cornered again after dinner.

"You should go to your room and take a shower, Ron," Madam Pomfrey advised, and Ron quickly nodded. "But I must say… Your body has healed astonishingly quickly."

"Well, I did have the best Medi-Witch in Britain looking after me," Ron managed a weak smile, and much to his delight, Madam Pomfrey's lips twitched upwards.

"Be that as it may," Pomfrey started. "I have to admit that your body clearly did a lot of the work. It's truly fascinating. We have countless reports of children healing themselves unintentionally via Accidental Magic, but not much data has been collected on people with developing Magical Cores. Your exhaustion may be linked to your body using your Magical Core to finish healing itself." Entity. I see that you're still up there. It's been a while, you barmy bastard.

"Guess I'm just lucky," Ron shrugged, and then he finished closing up his shirt. "I'll be off then, Madam Pomfrey. Um… Thanks for listening to me. I promise that I won't use violence… I was just talking nonsense when I said that… And I exaggerated a lot of things about Ginny… I was just getting my anger out." I do feel a lot lighter right now. I'm just glad that she let me get angry, unlike everyone else.

"I'm glad to hear that, Ron," Madam Pomfrey gave an approving nod. "You come straight to me if you ever start feeling overwhelmed again, alright?"

"I will," Ron managed a weak smile. "I'll go take that shower now." With that, Ron began to leave for the common room. His left leg didn't hurt enough to cause a limp, while his left arm felt perfectly fine now. He had decided to not use Baubillious again until he was certain that his body could handle it, nor would he force his Magic to work when it didn't want to. Remember what Dumbledore said, Ron. Magic is a gift, not a tool.

"Finally," came Fred's voice as soon as Ron exited the Hospital Wing, and Ron turned to see his siblings waiting for him. Um… I smell like the Entity's farts right now. Wait… Does it fart? And if it does, isn't that terrible for my brain? Ron's eyes then landed on Daphne, who was waiting patiently behind his siblings. Why is she here? She's meant to be at the Sanctuary.

"We've been waiting out here for almost an hour," George started, but then he noticed the smell coming off of Ron. "Sweet Merlin…"

"What's that smell, Ron?" Luna asked, her face scrunching up.

"It's probably the Potion that Madam Pomfrey used on his bandages," Percy told the others, though his disgust was visible as well. Ron looked at them all with a slight grin, and that's when he realized that Ginny wasn't amongst them. I guess she got lucky.

"Yeah, I'm not talking to him when he smells like Aunt Muriel's armpits," Fred shook his head as he stepped away from Ron.

"That's just fucking mean," Ron frowned at his brother, and then he looked to George. "I heard that you got hit by some of the debris. I'm really sorry, George. I never meant for that to happen."

"It's alright," George wheezed, clearly doing his best to hold his breath. "If you're really sorry, please go take a shower."

"That's probably for the best," Percy nodded his agreement, and then he stepped aside. "We'll talk to you later, alright?" Even Percy can't hide his disgust, and I don't blame him.

"Right," Ron nodded, and then he moved past them. Luna literally ran behind Fred and George as he passed her, while Daphne already had her handkerchief over her nose. "Hello…"

"Hi," Daphne spoke through her handkerchief. "Ron, why don't you go on without me? I'll just follow you after a few minutes, alright?"

"Right," Ron repeated, he was starting to feel a little self-conscious now. I'm going to take the longest shower in Hogwarts' history. Also, I'm using the Disillusionment Charm. There is no way that I'm going to let people associate this smell with me.

---

Thirty Minutes Later

Ron stepped out of the bathroom with a content smile, no longer did he smell like Death itself. And when he saw Daphne sitting on his bed, his smile grew even wider. This is my chance to talk to her!

"Wow, you look much better now," Daphne smiled at him, one of his Chess Magazines in her hands. She was sitting against the head of his bed, her legs stretched out in front of her. She was even polite enough to take off her shoes.

"Daphne!" Ron howled as he ran up to his bed, and before she could react, he had jumped onto the bed and latched onto her legs. Now she can't leave!

"What was that?!" Daphne burst into laughter, while Ron nuzzled his head into her stocking covered thighs. "Ron! I'm wearing a skirt!"

"The days are starting to get colder," Ron spoke into her thighs. "Why aren't you wearing appropriate clothing?"

"Because I didn't know that my boyfriend was such a freak," Daphne giggled, her hands scratching his head. Ron looked up with a grin, which only made her laugh harder. "Stop making that face!"

"You love it," Ron snorted, and then he quickly moved up and latched himself onto her torso. "This is the second day in a row where I've found you waiting for me after a shower. Are you up to something, Daphne?"

"Maybe," Daphne kept giggling, her arms wrapping around him. Ron used his strength to move her to the side a little, just so that he could lie on top of her. "My legs are now hanging off of the bed, Ron. What's gotten into you?"

"How about you tell me of your schemes first, witch," Ron smiled, his chest pressing down on hers.

"What can I say?" Daphne smirked playfully, some laughter still in her voice. "I'm trying to get a peek at those abs of yours. Pansy's constantly fantasizing about them."

"Hmmm," Ron hummed, his face hovering over hers. "Maybe I'll let you see them someday."

"Someday?" Daphne pouted. "You should take off your shirt whenever I want you to."

"I'll take that deal, but only if the same rules apply to you," Ron smirked back.

"I'm a Lady, Ron," Daphne tutted. "You can't say things like that to a Lady."

"But you're my Lady, so it's fine," Ron countered, and Daphne's lips twitched upwards. "Don't hide your smile, Daph. I just charmed you, I know it."

"And just like that… The Magic was gone," Daphne sighed out, making Ron snigger. "I'm really glad that you're not hurt anymore." Ron's sniggering stopped at that, and he noticed that she looked quite relieved to see him like this. "I was really scared yesterday, Ron… We all were."

"I'm sorry about that," Ron whispered, and then he gave her a quick peck. "I was trying something way out of my league, and it nearly hurt everyone in the Sanctuary. I nearly hurt you." Only now had he realized this, and that made him feel rather guilty.

"Accidents happen," Daphne gave him a soft smile. "Just don't try anything like that indoors again, alright? I'm genuinely surprised that you didn't even get a detention."

"That's because I paid the price for my stupidity," Ron responded. "Not to mention that I had to put up with that smell."

"Ugh… Don't bring that up, please," Daphne said, her face scrunching up a little. And then she leaned forward and sniffed his neck, something that made Ron snort.

"That was so weird," Ron chuckled. "You just sniffed me."

"And you smell great," Daphne winked. "Jasmines and sandalwood… Marty is the God of laundering clothes, I'm sure of it."

"Want to hear something hilarious?" Ron asked, and she nodded with a smile. "I used the Disillusionment Charm in order to stay hidden on my way down here, and I walked past these two Slytherins. They were snogging at the base of the stairs, and as I passed them, the lass gagged into the bloke's mouth."

"Ew!" Daphne laughed. "What about the boy?"

"He thought that she had vomited inside his mouth," Ron chuckled. "He literally flew away from her as if she had the Dragon Pox."

"Ron, that's so horrible," Daphne kept laughing.

"It made my day," Ron sniggered. "I had to cover my mouth because I was moments away from bursting into laughter right then and there. It was just so damn funny."

"You ruined someone's relationship," Daphne told him, her laughter dying down slowly. "Merlin… I haven't laughed so much in ages."

"You're welcome," Ron smiled proudly. "So… Why weren't you in the Sanctuary?"

"I came down to check up on you," Daphne replied. "I figured that if you got discharged, you'd want to join us."

"I see," Ron nodded slowly, and then he gave her another kiss. Her lips are so bloody soft. "I'd rather stay down here with you though."

"The others will wonder where I've run off to," Daphne pointed out.

"The others…" Ron said slowly, and then he drew in a deep breath. "We should tell them about us."

"You know that I want to, Ron," Daphne said softly. "I really, really want to… But with the Triumvirate no longer favoring us, and Flint being stupid and vicious enough to be considered dangerous, we can't lose our focus." Tell her how you feel, Ron. That's what Pomfrey suggested.

"Everything is going to shite," Ron sighed out, and Daphne gave him a sorry look. "Everything except this. I just want more of it, you know. I hate pretending like we aren't dating, and I know you hate it too. I mean, it was fun last year… Sneaking around and outfoxing people so that we could share a few kisses. But now? Now it just feels like we're letting Flint, and the Triumvirate, get to us. We're making ourselves miserable because of other people's problems."

"So you're saying that this is the only good thing in your life right now?" Daphne whispered.

"No," Ron shook his head. "But it's the only thing that makes me relax. I've told you before, Daph, that whenever I'm around you, everything is just… better." Merlin, this is embarrassing.

"I feel the same way," Daphne smiled at him, and Ron immediately felt a lot better.

"Then why hide it?" Ron asked her. "We're letting Malfoy and Flint's feud ruin things for us. You're a Greengrass, and I'm a Weasley. Our Families don't let others dictate anything for us."

"Low blow," Daphne kept smiling, and Ron smiled back.

"So you agree?" Ron asked hopefully, and Daphne drew in a long breath.

"You're right," Daphne nodded, and Ron's face almost split open because of his smile. Yes! Finally! "Malfoy's ruining enough things for us already. Letting him ruin this as well is just plain wrong. Plus, Hogsmeade Weekend is coming up soon, and I don't want any other witch getting any ideas. I've already made a booking at Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop for us."

"Madam who's what?" Ron blinked, this was unexpected.

"Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop," Daphne repeated, and all Ron could do was nod slowly. I guess I don't mind tea. "It's where all the couples go for their dates, and since this is the first Hogsmeade Weekend of the year, I had to make a booking a month in advance. You'll love it, Ron. They've got cakes, teas from all over the World, scones, and ice-cream."

"I… Damn, Daph… When did you do all of this?" Ron asked, he hadn't done anything for her yet.

"The day after you asked me out," Daphne admitted, her voice showing some of her embarrassment. "I may have gone a little… crazy… I also made plans for Honeydukes, the Three Broomsticks, and a walk past the Shrieking Shack." Good lord… All of that in one day? "We can do the last three with our friends, but I want to go to Madam Puddifoot's with just you."

"Okay," Ron agreed, a small chuckle escaping his throat. I can't believe that she's been planning this without me even realizing.

"What?" Daphne asked.

"Nothing," Ron smiled widely. "Thanks for doing all of that. I've had my head lodged into my own arse, and so I didn't even think of our first date."

"You've had a rough few weeks," Daphne said softly. "I absolve you of your sins."

"Thanks," Ron sniggered, and then he kissed her again. "So, how do we tell our friends?"

"I think we should just go up to the Sanctuary, sit them down, and tell them," Daphne replied, and Ron nodded his agreement. "Just one thing though… Let's not tell them about our sneaking around. I don't want them to think ill of me. Or you."

"They wouldn't do that," Ron assured her.

"I know," Daphne said meekly. "But I just don't want them to know. I want to keep that secret just between us. It's a perfect way to end our 'perfect crime'."

"You've been reading your father's romance novels, haven't you?" Ron grinned.

"Shut up," Daphne giggled, which made Ron even happier. Pomfrey was right.

"We'll tell them that I finally summoned the courage to ask you, and you agreed," Ron whispered, and she nodded her agreement. "Something simple, and believable. We'll leave no part up to questioning."

"Thank you," Daphne smiled gratefully. "I don't want the girls to think that I was lying to them, which I was… It's just easier this way. For both of us."

"Agreed," Ron nodded. "So… No time for snogging?"

"Come here," Daphne beckoned, and Ron did as he was told.

---

Monday 5th October, 1993 (The Entrance Hall – After Dinner)

Ron and Daphne had decided to tell their friends after dinner, mostly because they had lost track of time during their latest snogging session. Their story was quite simple, and quite boring in Ron's opinion. But it was what Daphne wanted, and so Ron was happy to go through with it. Ron would tell his friends that he had been plucking up the courage to ask Daphne out for a while, and today, he finally had. She had happily agreed, and now they were both a couple. Simple and straight to the point, that's what Daphne wanted.

Dinner had been pleasant enough, they had all found a new rhythm when it came to making small talk. All of Ron's friends, and he himself, made sure to keep their secrets hidden, while Malfoy didn't bother asking any questions. The pale boy would only speak when he was spoken to, which wasn't often because only Ron, Theo, and Blaise ever spoke to him. Malfoy's presence was still bothersome, of course, but they were finding ways to ignore it.

"Ugh… We have History of Magic tomorrow," Pansy groaned.

"Ladies don't groan Pansy," Millie smirked, clearly pleased with finally getting Pansy with her own words. They were all exiting the Great Hall right now, and Ron was starting to feel a little nervous. What if they have questions that we didn't think of? What if they don't approve? Ron shot a subtle look towards Daphne, and her calm expression made him smack himself internally. Daphne has bigger balls than me… Fred and George were right, I'm the first born daughter of Arthur and Molly Weasley.

"Hey, Ron," a fourth year Slytherin girl waved, and Ron waved back with a polite smile. Unsurprisingly, his latest stunt had reignited his popularity within the student-body. Especially the female students around his age. Not to mention that Ron's Quibbler had made him bait for greedy witches, and wizards, who wanted to be featured in an actual Magazine.

"You look much better now," another fourth year girl smiled at him.

"Madam Pomfrey is the best at her job," Ron smiled at them, while his friends just eyed the people staring at him.

"It's like he's an exotic animal," Tracey sighed, and then she looked towards her best friend. Oddly enough, Daphne had a smug smirk on her face.

"Do your siblings always ambush you, Weasley?" Malfoy asked with a cocked eyebrow, and Ron looked to find his siblings waiting for him by the exit.

"Lately, yes," Ron replied, his eyes searching for Ginny. She's not there. Was she even at dinner tonight?

"There you are," Percy waved him over, and Ron decided to be friendly. After all, he was in an overall good mood right now.

"Hello," Ron greeted them, his eyes skimming over the Golden Trio. Why are they always inserting themselves into my Family's business? "Do you want to talk to me?"

"We do," Percy said, his eyes darting towards Ron's friends. "You can all come as well, if you want." Huh? Ron, and his friends, were genuinely baffled by this invitation.

"Sure," Theo said slowly, what was the Head Boy up to?

"Let's not block the way for other people," Percy suggested, and then he began walking towards the Courtyard. Ron and the others followed after him, and Ron noticed Hermione staring at him as if he was a rare book. She wants to know which Spell I used yesterday, I'm sure of it. As they stepped out into the clear night, Ron and his friends faced Ron's siblings and the Trio.

"So… What can I do for you?" Ron asked them politely.

"Which Spell did you use yesterday?" Hermione fired, her expression dead-serious. And there it is.

"Telling you would give away my plans for the Dueling Club," Ron replied with a playful smile.

"You can't be serious?" Hermione gasped. "You have to tell me, Ron. I want to try it as well."

"No… You don't…" Ron sighed out. "Hermione, I cooked the left half of my body."

"What?" the twins asked together, their jaws dropping open. Even Neville and Harry just gaped at him, while Hermione looked genuinely disturbed.

"You did?" Luna asked weakly, and Ron immediately felt bad for telling them that. I'm an idiot.

"I'm alright now, Luna," Ron quickly assured her. "Come here." Luna walked up and hugged Ron's middle, while Ron shot the others a sheepish smile.

"Ron, how could you be so careless?" Percy scolded, but Ron simply shrugged.

"Learning Spells has its risks," Ron reminded Percy. "I won't be casting that Spell again any time soon. The Headmaster has forbidden me from even speaking about it."

"He has?" Harry asked, and Ron nodded. He hasn't, but I can just tell him to pretend that he has.

"He said that it was too dangerous," Ron told Harry, and due to his good mood, he was even able to sound civil.

"Where did you learn it?" Percy asked. "I've never come across a Spell like that, Ron. And I've been studying Magic for far longer than you."

"I learnt it from a book," Ron replied, and Percy blinked at him.

"Ron…" Percy started, but Ron interrupted him.

"What's with the interrogation?" Ron asked, his casual tone not matching his words. "I mean, the twins know plenty of Spells that none of us have heard about before, but no one questions them. So why do I have to explain everything I do?"

"He's got a point, you know," Fred stated.

"We do know plenty of Jinxes that none of you have heard about before," George added, and Percy shot them a frown. "What? We do!"

"They want to know if you brought lightning down on the school using the Dark Arts," Luna said as she pulled her head back, and Ron just blinked at her. Dark Arts?

"Wow," Tracey muttered under her breath.

"First of all, I didn't bring the lightning 'down'," Ron started, his mood slightly soured for a moment. Forget it, Ron. You get to start dating Daphne tomorrow in earnest. Focus on the positives, just like Madam Pomfrey always says. "I fired the lightning myself. And no, it wasn't a Dark Spell. It's a Charm that they don't teach at Hogwarts." Well, they teach it… But not the Wandless variation of it.

"So it wasn't the Dark Arts… Good," Percy nodded, and Ron bit back a frown. Who are you to tell me what to do, eh?

"Which Charm was it?" Hermione asked again.

"Hermione, I can't tell you that," Ron gave her a smile, but she just pouted angrily. "The Headmaster himself told me to never mention it."

"Why would he do that?" Harry asked.

"Because, like I said, it cooked my flesh," Ron replied, and he felt Luna tense in his arms. "Now, if any of you were to cast it, it'd kill you outright." None of you have trained your body to act as a conduit, after all.

"But not you?" Luna asked slowly.

"Well, I am stronger than everyone here," Ron smiled down at her, and she smiled back.

"Careful, Luna," Fred rolled his eyes. "He might crush you with his ego if you stand too close to him."

"Haha," Ron faked a laugh, and then he gave Fred the bird. Fred snorted at that, while Percy shook his head with displeasure.

"Ron, you shouldn't do that," Hermione scolded, but Ron simply moved his bird in her direction. Hermione's jaw dropped open, while the twins and Ron's friends burst into laughter. "Ronald!"

"It's a joke, Hermione," Ron chuckled, his hand returning to Luna's back. She so tiny and huggable.

"Lighten up, Granger," Tracey sniggered, while George gave the bushy haired witch a pat on the back.

"It's not very funny," Hermione bit out. "Just plain rude…"

"Are you coming to the study group on Friday?" Ron suddenly asked her, and Hermione blinked at him. Go on, take the bait. I know you want to.

"Of course," Hermione nodded. "Neville and Harry are coming too." Harry gave her a slight frown, while Neville just nodded weakly.

"How are you doing, Longbottom?" Daphne asked, but her eyes were fixed on Potter's frown.

"Fine," Neville all but whispered. Poor bloke. Look at the state of him. "Thank you all for the White Stargazer Lily. It was a really thoughtful gift." Neville then looked to a surprised Theo. "Ron mentioned that it was your idea."

"It was," Theo said, all the while wondering why Ron would do that.

"Thank you," Neville managed a weak smile, and Theo gave him a deep nod.

"So, did you guys want anything else?" Ron asked, he had better things to do than to stand out here in the cold.

"There's just one more thing…" Percy said, and then he drew in a deep breath. "Ginny."

"What about her?" Ron asked calmly.

"Mum sent her a Howler this afternoon," Fred told Ron, who nodded slowly. A Howler? Mum sent Ginny a Howler? Bloody hell, I didn't expect that.

"Apparently it went off in her dorm room," George added. "She's not taken it well, Ron. We talked to her roommates, and they said that Ginny was crying in their bathroom for a good while. She even skipped lunch and dinner."

"I see," Ron said. "You guys should talk to her."

"It's you two that need to talk, Ron," Hermione said, and Ron shot her a deadpan look.

"This is Family business, Hermione," Ron said bluntly. "Don't interfere." Hermione looked genuinely shocked, as if she literally couldn't understand that she had no right to interfere with other people's business. She may have apologized for her previous actions, but that won't excuse her from her current ones. Not in my eyes.

"He's right," Neville spoke up, earning a confused looked from both Harry and Hermione. "Hermione, remember what we talked about…" Huh? Hermione blinked at Neville, and then she gave a reluctant nod. Harry just looked between his best friends, he clearly had no idea what they were talking about. "We'll be on our way, Ron. I'm glad that you're not hurt anymore."

"Thanks, mate," Ron smiled. "If you ever need anything, or just want to talk, you can always come to me."

"I'll remember that," Neville managed one more weak smile, and then he turned around and left. Hermione quickly followed after him, while Harry just stared at Ron.

"You're not going to go with them?" Ron asked Harry, making sure to keep his voice civil.

"Why were you on the seventh floor?" Harry asked in return.

"I wanted to enjoy the view," Ron smirked, but Harry looked anything but amused. "But a wall happened to be in the way of my view, so I made myself a 'window'." Ron could hear his friends holding back their laughs, something that made Ron grin at Harry. Sirius better send him a letter soon.

"Ron, you're being rude," Percy pointed out, a frown on his face.

"And it's not rude to interrogate people?" Ron asked Percy. "To corner them, and then ruin their night with your own problems?" Ron then looked to Harry, his mirth completely gone. "Stop sticking your nose in my business, Harry. Trust me, you don't want to piss me off."

"I'm not scared of you, Ron," Harry narrowed his eyes on Ron.

"You should be," Ron whispered coldly, and he felt Luna tense in his arms. You really should be.

"Right, that's enough," Fred cut in.

"Bloody hell, you both need couple's counseling," George grimaced, and then he looked to Harry. "You should go with Hermione and Neville, mate. We need to talk to Ron about Ginny." Harry gave a curt nod, his eyes still narrowed on Ron. And then, he slowly disappeared into the castle.

"Guys, why don't you wait for me in the Entrance Hall?" Ron looked to his friends, and they simply nodded before leaving as well. "Alright, Luna… We've set the World record for the longest hug ever given, time to let go." Luna let go of him and took a few steps back, but she clearly didn't want to stop hugging him.

"Why are you trying to make Harry into your enemy?" Fred asked Ron. "Harry's actually quite a decent bloke, Ron."

"He's the one who's coming after me," Ron told them. "He was following me around during the Funeral Gathering, and I've seen him eyeballing me constantly. I've given him no reason for this sort of behavior, but he's still doing it."

"He was following you around at the Funeral Gathering?" Percy asked, a look of disbelief marking his features.

"Why would he do that?" Fred asked.

"Wait… You locked him the restroom!" George accused, and Ron simply shrugged. "Mum blamed us for that, Ron!"

"She spent over thirty minutes yelling at us!" Fred added, a scowl on his face.

"Sorry about that," Ron sighed out. "But in my defense, I never put the blame on you two."

"But you didn't say anything either," George huffed, his head shaking in disappointment.

"Why was Harry following you around?" Percy asked, deciding to ignore the twins' tantrum.

"Sirius says that Harry believes me to be 'bad news'," Ron rolled his eyes. "That apparently, I'm not someone to be trusted."

"Why would he think that?" Fred asked, his scowl still on his face.

"Harry feels threatened, I think," Luna hummed, and everyone looked to her.

"Threatened?" Percy asked. "Go on, Luna." For a small moment, Ron felt really glad that Luna was here. She was officially in a Family meeting, where she always belonged.

"It's just something that I noticed at Grimmauld Place," Luna replied airily. "Sirius mentions Ron a lot more than he mentions Harry, and I don't think Harry likes that very much."

"He's jealous?" George asked.

"Maybe," Luna replied. "He's been alone for most of his life, and even though he has a Family now, he still feels like he's the second priority. It's quite sad, really." Luna then looked to Ron, her expression becoming a little serious. "Put yourself in his shoes, Ron. He's always been neglected, and I know that you know how that feels." Percy and the twins looked a little uncomfortable at that, while Ron just stared at Luna.

"But he's not being neglected now," Ron said, but her words struck a chord with him. I do know how that feels, and considering that Harry was locked away when Sirius and I found him, he's had it a lot worse than me. But still… He needs to back off.

"If he feels neglected, then that's all that matters to him," Luna said in a sagely voice. "You should talk to Sirius about this, Ron. If you convince him to always concentrate on Harry whenever they're together, you'll solve two problems instead of one. Harry will feel loved and included, while you will be freed from his intrigue. And the best part is, all of this will end peacefully."

"She's right," Percy nodded immediately. "Ron, fighting will just get you into trouble."

"And we quite like Harry," the twins added. Two birds, one Spell… I'll just need to tell Sirius to not bring me up whenever he's with Harry, and that'll be that. Hmmm.

"Alright," Ron nodded, and Luna smiled at him. "I'll talk to Sirius about this. Just one thing though… What if he doesn't stop?"

"We'll keep an eye on him for you," Fred volunteered, and Ron cocked his eyebrow at him. Really?

"And what do you want in return?" Ron asked, something that made Fred blink in confusion.

"Um… Nothing," Fred said slowly, his eyes darting to his other siblings.

"Really?" Ron asked just as slowly.

"Yeah, really," Fred frowned a little. "We can be helpful without expecting a reward, Ron."

"Your lack of trust in us is kind of unwarranted," George added, while Percy just stared at Ron.

"Sorry," Ron apologized. "It's not that I don't trust you… It's just that things are done differently in Slytherin. Favors are a currency, you know?"

"Favors are a currency, he says," Fred shook his head. "Just don't forget your roots, little brother."

"Trust me, I haven't," Ron responded, and then he looked to Percy. "Now… You mentioned that Ginny was quite upset?"

"She's gone completely mental," George replied for Percy. "Or at least that's what we've heard."

"And you didn't check up on her?" Ron asked.

"And how are we supposed to do that?" Fred asked in return. What?

"Go to her bloody room, you ponce," Ron replied, his expression suggesting to all that Fred was an idiot.

"Ron, the stairs would turn into a slide," Percy told him, a slightly confused look on his face. Wait… Didn't Charlie mention that back before I joined Hogwarts?

"Gryffindor Tower doesn't allow the boys go into the girls' dorms," Ron nodded slowly, and the twins blinked at him.

"Slytherin doesn't have that rule?" Fred asked.

"You can just waltz into the girls' dorms?" George asked right after.

"Well, yes," Ron replied, and the twins gaped at him.

"Lucky bastard," the twins muttered together, while Percy clicked his tongue.

"Ravenclaw is the same as Slytherin then," Luna hummed, and the twins let out exaggerated groans. "Knowledge is hindered by barriers, after all." Right…

"So we're the only ones who can't sneak a peek?" Fred asked, his disappointment written on his face.

"Ahem," Percy cleared his throat, and the twins gave him sheepish grins. "I'll ignore that because we have other pressing matters, but just know that I'll be watching you two from now on."

"Bugger off," the twins rolled their eyes.

"Ron, you need to talk to Ginny," Percy said, his eyes travelling to him. "She's not doing well… Your friend Tracey brought up some really painful memories for her, and she's not been the same since."

"And you think I have?" Ron asked, his temper flaring. "She called me a fucking traitor to my face. Me! I'm the guy who took the blame for her actions last year, and I've never once complained about that. Instead, I've been nothing but supportive. I was the one who was there for her whilst the rest of you stepped on eggshells around her."

"She said something venomous, and it hurt her as well," Luna said calmly. "She doesn't believe her own words, Ron, so neither should you."

"So once again, I'm the one who has to fix everything?" Ron asked bitterly. "I'm the person who has to take all the hits, and then patch things up as well?"

"That's just your pride talking," Percy said gently, and Ron turned his gaze to his older brother.

"Maybe…" Ron admitted. "But you know what? What she said really fucking hurt… People who aren't even my Blood understood my actions, and even commended me on them. But Ginny… She's been treating me like shite for almost a month now. I'm sorry, but this time, I'm putting my foot down. If she wants to talk to me, then she can come and find me. But I will not go to her, no matter how 'hurt' she is right now."

"Mum sent her a Howler, Ron," Fred sighed.

"A bloody Howler," George sighed as well. "Mum's never gotten so angry with her before."

"That alone should tell you just how wrong Ginny was," Ron responded. "You know, ever since she started spending time with Harry Potter, she's become increasingly more hostile towards me. That little bespectacled cunt-"

"Ron!" Percy frowned deeply. "Mind your language, for Merlin's sake."

"That little bespectacled git," Ron corrected himself, while Luna nodded in approval. "He's been talking to her about me, and since we all know that Ginny worships the ground that Harry Potter walks on, she's been listening to him. Now… Usually, I would fix this issue in my own way. But for the sake of Ginny's friendships, I haven't… Instead, I've just endured her doubts and angry glares quietly. So don't tell me that I haven't tried to fix this, because I have."

"You don't have to apologize to her," Luna said. "Just talk to her."

"I will, but only if she comes to me," Ron told them. "I'm sorry, but I will not change my stance on this. There comes a time when you just have to preserve your self-respect, and if I let her off the hook, again, I won't have any self-respect left. No one gets to talk down to me like that. Not anymore."

"Great, so this was a waste of time," Fred said, while George just sighed in defeat.

"Hardly," Ron said. "I now know what must be done about Harry, and you'll be keeping an eye on him for me."

"You're welcome," George said with a deadpan look.

"Luna, you should reach out to Ginny," Ron suggested, and Luna nodded. "Introduce her to your friends. It'll do her good to be friends with people her own age, instead of just following the Golden Trio around."

"I'll do that, Ron," Luna agreed.

"I guess we'll need to talk to her then," Percy said in a matter-of-fact tone. "Fred and George, any suggestions?"

"We can try to cheer her up," Fred suggested.

"Let her in on one of our pranks," George nodded, while Percy shook his head.

"You're not turning our sister into a delinquent," Percy said firmly.

"Then what do you suggest, Head Boy?" Fred asked scathingly. Do none of them know how to interact with her?

"Here's an idea," Ron started, and everyone looked to him. "Take her out to the Pitch, and let her score some goals on you. Ginny enjoys being included in our brotherly games, she always has. Just pretend like you're going out to practice for Quidditch, and just invite her on the way. Don't bring up mum, don't bring up her fight with me, and don't make her feel like you're doing this for her benefit. She's just as stubborn and proud as the rest of us, and if she feels like you're giving her charity, she'll lose her temper."

"Ginny tried out for the Gryffindor Quidditch Team, Ron," Fred told him. "And she didn't get in." I see. That's… That would have really hurt her.

"I don't think that she wants to see a broom right now," George said.

"Like I said, she's stubborn and proud," Ron repeated, he knew his little sister better than anyone. "Sure, she must be feeling quite down right now, but in a week or so, she'll get angry about it. That's when you approach her. If she says that she doesn't want to join in, just give her a disappointed look. That'll piss her right off, and she'll join you just to teach you both a lesson. Then, you let her score a couple of goals on you, all the while making sure to not look incompetent. Once she's feeling a little better, Luna will approach her with her friends in tow."

"Merlin, when you did you become like this?" Fred asked, and Ron shot him a frown.

"No offence, of course," George added. "If anything, it's quite refreshing."

"What they mean to say is 'Thank you'," Luna smiled at Ron, and Ron gave her a curt nod.

"If she does come to you," Percy started, he was quite taken aback by just how manipulative Ron could be. "You'll talk to her properly, won't you?"

"She won't come to me for a while, Perce," Ron replied. "She'll start ignoring me out of pride and anger, and because of that, she'll start distancing herself from the Trio as well. I interact with Hermione and Neville far too often now… That's why Luna needs to be there for her. Ginny can't be left alone, or she'll just become like she was last year."

"That's not happening," Fred suddenly spoke up, he never wanted to see Ginny like that again.

"We won't let it," George nodded firmly. That's what I like to hear. Family must always come first.

"You didn't answer my question, Ron," Percy said. "I need your word that you'll keep that temper of yours in check."

"If she comes to me, I will listen to what she has to say," Ron replied. "But I will not just stand by if she decides to start throwing accusations again. I'm not a punching bag. Ginny needs to learn that."

"Percy, that'll have to do for now," George said, while Fred just nodded his agreement. "But Ron, you need to send mum an owl. Tell her to not send another bloody Howler on your behalf, alright?"

"Mum's temper needs to be looked at," Fred added, and all the Weasley brothers nodded in agreement.

"I have two free periods on Thursday," Ron started. "I'll have a chat with the Headmaster, and see if I can't get permission to go home for an hour or so. I'll talk to both Sirius and mum on Thursday." Ron then looked to Percy. "Percy, just cut Ginny some slack for the time being. Hermione mentioned that you kept asking her to apologize to me. It's not helping us right now, it's only making her more upset."

"Alright…" Percy exhaled. "We all have a plan then."

"Well, look at us," Fred smirked, and the he put his right hand forward. "Put it on there." What? George put his hand on top of Fred's, and then he looked to the others.

"Oh, come on then," George said, and Luna giggled before placing her hand on top of George's. Fuck it. Ron placed his hand on top of hers, and they all looked to Percy. Percy just stared at them in disbelief, and then he rolled his eyes before placing his hand on top of Ron's.

"Go Team Weasley!" Fred chanted.

"And Lovegood!" Luna laughed, and they all shot their hands up into the air. That was so cringe worthy, but I still enjoyed it.

"We'll have to work on our Team name," Fred sniggered, while George ruffled Luna's hair.

"Stop it," Luna giggled, though she didn't even try to dodge George's hand. Ron and Percy just smiled to themselves, both of them secretly happy due to feeling included. They all began heading back inside, and once they entered the Entrance Hall, they found Snape waiting for them. Oh, fuck.

"Curfew is nearly in place," Snape hissed at them, his face showcasing his trademark sneer. "Get to your common rooms… Now!" He sent my friends away? Shite! I need to get down there right now!

"I'll see you guys around," Ron said quickly, and then he burst into a sprint.

"Ron, no running!" Percy called after him, but Ron just ignored him. I bet Flint's cornered them already! Damn Snape! Ron hopped down the last few steps, and then he sprinted towards the common room entrance.

"Venom!" Ron yelled in advance, and as he neared the opening common room wall, his friends suddenly appeared before him. Ron let out shriek as he slid to a halt, his heart leaping into his throat. Fuck me!

"Ha, got him!" Tracey laughed, while Ron bent forward and wheezed. "I told you that that would work!"

"Oh, you bastards," Ron panted, while they all burst into laughter. Even Malfoy was sniggering, no doubt pleased to see Ron in such a state. "You fuckers…"

"We didn't expect you to come running, Ron," Millie said, her laughter hidden behind her hands. "Why were you in such a rush?"

"I fucking thought that you all went into the common room without me," Ron sighed out, and then he stood up to his full height. "I didn't want Flint cornering you…"

"We're not stupid, mate," Blaise breathed out, he was clearly trying to find his center again. Ron shot a quick look at Daphne, and like all the others, she was just laughing at him. Ice-Queen my arse.

"C'mon, Ron," Tracey laughed. "That was funny, and you know it. The way you shrieked… I'll never forget it."

"So very funny," Ron frowned, and then he fixed up his clothes. "Can we go inside now, you twats?"

"Aw, he's angry," Pansy giggled, her eyes lit up with mischief.

"Be a good sport, Ron," Theo patted his back, and so Ron fixed his frown.

"Yes…" Ron whispered coldly. "So very funny… Well done, Tracey."

"Thank you," Tracey sniggered as she gave him a curtsy, and then she looked to Daphne. "Did I do that right, your Ladyship?"

"Go a little lower next time," Daphne smirked at her, while Tracey rolled her eyes with a smile on her face.

"Let's go inside before Ron bursts a blood vessel," Blaise said, he had already managed to calm down. Ron decided to just lead the way, and he ignored his friends cackling behind his back. That was pretty funny, but I'll be damned if I give Tracey the satisfaction of getting one on me. I shall have my revenge. Ron looked to see Flint's gang occupying their spot again, but this time, Flint's mates looked rather uncertain of their actions. No arrogant smirks this time, eh? Guess they're smarter than Flint.

"Let's just ignore them," Daphne whispered from behind him. Right, fuck them. Daphne and I have an announcement to make. Ron quickly started walking towards the boys' room, because despite his nervousness, he really just wanted to make it official. Ronald Weasley has a girlfriend! Yay! Ron made sure to hide his giddiness, but his lips twitched upwards every three or four seconds.

"In you all go," Ron said as he opened the door, and they all passed him with confused looks. Daphne was the last one through, and once she was inside, Ron quickly entered the room and closed the door. Everyone took their usual spots, while Daphne and Ron just stood near the entrance.

"What are you two doing?" Theo asked from his bed, his Herbology book already in his lap.

"Do you want to start?" Ron whispered to Daphne.

"No, you can start," Daphne whispered back, and Ron gave her a quick nod. He then looked to his friends, and Malfoy, and found them all staring at him.

"What's happened?" Blaise asked, his face dead-serious. Merlin, do we get bad news that often?

"So… Um… Daphne and I spoke today," Ron started lamely. "And for last couple of months, I've been trying to gather up the courage to ask Daphne out-"

"YES!" Pansy suddenly squealed as she shot off of Theo's bed, while the others just gaped at Ron and Daphne. "YES! Yes, yes, yes, yes!" Everyone just blinked at Pansy, who was now doing some sort of happy dance to herself. Why is she more excited than both Daphne and me?

"Pansy, love, calm down," Millie spoke gently, and then she looked to Ron and Daphne. "So um… Go on…"

"Right," Ron said slowly, his eyes lingering on Pansy's ever-growing grin. "So we talked, and I asked her out."

"And I said yes," Daphne told them, a pleasant smile on her face. "Ron and I are a couple now."

"Woohoo!" Pansy wooed, and then she grinned at Tracey. "Pay up, bitch!"

"Bitch?" Tracey muttered, her eyes widening slightly.

"Sorry, I'm just really excited!" Pansy laughed. "I told you all, and yet you all doubted me! Start of third year I said, but you were all naysayers!" What the hell?

"Ahem," Millie cleared her throat loudly, and Pansy blinked at her. Mille jerked her head towards Ron and Daphne, who were both just staring at Pansy's outburst with genuine shock. Pansy gave them a sheepish grin, and then she ran up and hugged Daphne. "Congratulations, you two! We've all been waiting for this to finally happen!" You have?

"This is great news," Millie nodded, and then she walked up and shook Ron's hand. "I'm glad you finally came to your senses, Ron."

"Thanks…?" Ron mumbled, and Mille gave him a nod. She then walked over hugged Daphne, while Tracey got up and joined the girls.

"Congratulations, Ron," Tracey smiled widely, and Ron managed to give her a smile in return. "We're going to kidnap your girlfriend now for some thorough questioning. Goodnight, boys." Wait… What?

"I thought that we'd-" Ron started, but the excited girls literally carried a startled Daphne out of the room. Once the door had closed behind them, Ron found himself just staring at it. What just happened? I… I expected that we'd at least talk about it… They just fucking snatched her away. What the fuck?!

"So…" Theo spoke up, and Ron turned around with a confused expression. "That just happened."

"They carried her away," Ron muttered, his eyes traveling between the boys. Blaise was just smirking at him, Malfoy looked bored, while Theo was just staring at Ron. "Why did they do that?"

"No doubt to ask her various embarrassing questions," Blaise replied. "Congratulations, Ron. I'd say that I'm surprised, but we all saw this coming."

"You did?" Ron asked slowly, a jarred look on his face.

"Even Malfoy saw this coming," Theo pointed out, and then he looked to Malfoy. "Didn't you?"

"It was pretty obvious," Malfoy shrugged, he truly looked bored by this development. "I thought that you two were already a couple."

"They pretty much were, it's just official now," Blaise said, and all Ron could do was stare at them. He didn't want to admit it, but he was rather disappointed by their reactions. He had expected excitement, questions, and far more happiness, but his friends just looked so… normal… about it.

"Have you two snogged yet?" Theo asked in a calm voice, which made Ron's jaw drop open.

"No, we haven't," Ron quickly denied, he had a plan to follow. "I just asked her, Theo."

"Alright… Ease up," Theo chuckled. "Have you two fooled around at all?"

"What the fuck, Theo?" Ron frowned, which only served to make Theo and Blaise snigger. "No… I just asked her."

"So you're telling me, that after you asked her out, you two didn't even kiss?" Theo asked, and Ron felt his face heat up. "Tsk, tsk, tsk… I'm actually disappointed, Ron." Disappointed?! Well, I'll have you know that my tongue was… I shouldn't think such a thing about Daphne. That's just disrespectful, that is.

"Theo, stop pushing his buttons," Blaise laughed from his bed, while Malfoy just went back to his book. "We're happy for you, Ron. You two will make a fine couple."

"Right…" Ron muttered, and then he slowly walked over to his bed.

"Ron has a girlfriend," Theo sang in a childish manner, and Ron shot him a glare.

"How is that an insult?" Ron frowned.

"Is it pissing you off?" Theo smirked, and Ron just stared at him for a few seconds.

"Yes…"

"There's your answer," Theo burst into laughter.

"I'm going to bed," Ron sighed, which only made Theo laugh harder. I hope Daphne's having better luck than me.

---

Daphne Greengrass' POV

Monday 5th October, 1993 (The Girls' Room – Night)

"Unhand me, Millicent Bulstrode," Daphne hissed, but the bigger girl just carried Daphne towards her bed.

"Put her down, Millie," Pansy ordered, her demented glee written all over her face. Millie put Daphne down on her bed, and when Daphne tried to sit up, the girls jumped onto her limbs. My fucking ankle!

"Millie, you're bending my ankle!" Daphne squealed, and Millie quickly adjusted herself. "Get off me! What are you all doing?!"

"We want answers, Daphne," Pansy cooed, her smile looming closer to Daphne's face. I'm actually scared right now…

"Tell us how it happened," Tracey ordered, she too was starting to resemble Pansy. "Don't you dare leave anything out, alright?"

"You don't have to pin me down for this," Daphne scowled. "My skirt's riding up, you freaks!"

"I call that a bonus," Pansy giggled, which earned her a confused look from both Tracey and Daphne. She's bloody mental!

"Let's ignore that," Tracey shook her head, and then she looked back to Daphne. "Talk, Daphne! Give us the goods!"

"It just happened," Daphne sighed out. "Look, I met him after he got discharged from the Hospital Wing, but his bandages had left a foul stench on him-"

"Did that get you going?" Pansy asked excitedly, and Daphne's mouth dropped open. "I've read that some witches like a pungent, manly smell." Merlin's beard!

"After this, we're going to do something about you, Pansy," Millie promised, and then she got off of Daphne's legs.

"Millie, don't let go of her," Pansy shrieked.

"She's not going anywhere," Millie rolled her eyes, and then she reached forward and fixed Daphne's skirt.

"Thank you," Daphne said curtly. "You two can let go off me as well."

"Let her go," Millie said, and then she took out her wand. What is she doing? "Trust me, she won't be going anywhere."

"That's the spirit!" Tracey laughed, and then both girls let go of Daphne, who slowly sat up and rubbed her arms. Savages! Attacking a Lady in such a manner. Everyone in the common room was staring at us… It was so mortifying.

"Right, go on then," Millie said, a smile creeping onto her face. "I must admit, I too wish to know all the details." Pansy's gotten to her.

"You were at 'foul stench'," Tracey reminded her, and Daphne gave her best friend a deadpan look.

"Right…" Daphne exhaled. "He had this terrible smell on him, and no, it didn't 'get me going'." Pansy let out a giggle at that. "He wanted to take a shower, so I joined him."

"In the shower?!" Pansy gasped, and Daphne grit her teeth.

"I'll smack you, Pansy," Daphne warned her lust-fueled friend. "I waited for him in the boys' room while he showered, and after he was done, we started talking."

"About what?" Tracey asked. "Was he shirtless? Did you see his abs? Are they really there?"

"You see what you've done," Daphne frowned at Pansy, who was clearly picturing Ron's abs again. I don't know how I feel about my friends lusting after my boyfriend. He better show me his abs before he shows them! "No, Tracey, he was not shirtless. He was dressed, but his hair was still a little wet."

"What did you talk about?" Millie asked.

"About Malfoy, and Flint, and the Triumvirate… Just all the nonsense that we're all dealing with right now," Daphne replied. "He told me that he was feeling increasingly… sad… about the state of things."

"Ron's sad?" Pansy whispered, something shifting behind her eyes.

"He's had a rough month, we all know that," Tracey said, her smile faltering for a moment. "He's the one who's taking the brunt of the disapproval, while Malfoy is strutting about like some prince. Anyway… Go on, Daph."

"So while we were talking, he suddenly started acting weird," Daphne went on, it was time to tell them the story that she had concocted. "He told me that he was really grateful for my support, and other things like that. And then, he just asked me."

"He just asked you?" Millie blinked. "Just out of the blue?"

"Well, I think that he was trying to bring up the topic, but he wasn't doing it very well," Daphne lied, Ron had done spectacularly in truth. "And yeah, he just asked me."

"And how did you react?" Pansy beamed, her head already in the clouds.

"I was taken aback for a moment, and then I said yes immediately," Daphne replied, a smile forming on her face. Best day ever. Sunday the twenty-seventh of September. I'll never forget it!

"How did he react to that?" Tracey smiled, her hands taking Daphne's left one.

"He was a bit surprised by my reaction," Daphne couldn't help but chuckle, which only made the other girls smile more widely. "But in the end, he said that he was really happy that I had accepted."

"Only Ron would be surprised by that," Millie chuckled, and then she sat down on Daphne's bed.

"So… Did you two seal the deal?" Pansy asked excitedly.

"Are you asking if we kissed?" Daphne asked in response, and Pansy nodded fervently. Oh, we kissed alright. And it was amazing!

"No, we didn't kiss," Daphne lied, and all three girls lost their smiles.

"What?"

"Why?"

"You didn't even try?"

"One at a time, please," Daphne said, and then she looked to Tracey. "You first."

"Why didn't you kiss him, Daph?" Tracey sighed out. "It was a perfect opportunity, and you wasted it." No, I really didn't. There it was again, that excitement she felt from tricking her friends. Ron and I will never get caught now. Hehe.

"It just… didn't happen," Daphne shrugged.

"But you tried, right?" Pansy asked, and Daphne shook her head. "Daphne! He wanted you to kiss him!"

"He made no mention of it," Daphne told her, but Pansy threw a mini tantrum right then and there. Wow. She's beyond the help of mere mortals, isn't she?

"He was shy!" Pansy fumed, which seemed to amuse Millie.

"There, there," Millie rubbed Pansy's back, while Pansy pouted angrily at Daphne.

"Let's go and get him," Pansy said, and Daphne quickly grabbed Pansy's hand with her free one.

"Don't you dare, Pans," Daphne warned. "I don't want to push him too far too fast. This is still Ron, alright?" It took me months to get him here, and if she ruins it, I'll eat her face!

"But you'll kiss him soon, won't you?" Tracey asked quickly, and Daphne nodded. "Ohhh. You have to tell us everything about it! Promise?!"

"I… I promise," Daphne conceded.

"And none of that lip pecking either," Pansy quickly added. "I want tongue!"

"Merlin," Millie cringed, while Tracey burst into laughter.

"What?" Pansy asked, while Daphne did her best to not scold her. "It has to be a proper kiss, doesn't it? I mean, I've pecked Ron's lips already." No need to sound so damn proud of that, Pansy.

"You what?!" Tracey exclaimed, her laughter dying immediately. "Pansy! How could you do that?!"

"It's alright, I was right there when it happened," Daphne told them, which earned her shocked looks from both Tracey and Millie.

"And you didn't kill her?" Millie asked slowly.

"I've grown as a person," Daphne smirked, but Tracey and Millie weren't convinced. This isn't good. "Look, it was right after the whole Malfoy thing… Pansy was in a terrible state, and Ron had just taken all the responsibility on his own shoulders. Even I wanted to give him a peck."

"Right…" Tracey nodded slowly. "I have to admit, I couldn't get angry with Ron after he put Blaise first like that."

"We are getting off topic here, Ladies," Pansy spoke up. "Daphne has to seal the deal with a proper kiss, or else, their relationship won't count."

"Pansy, for the love of Merlin, please stop reading that Magazine," Millie pleaded, but Pansy merely rolled her eyes.

"That Magazine helps me understand things that will benefit all four of us in the Future," Pansy said haughtily. "I do what I do for the betterment of this group!"

"And now she's delusional…" Daphne sighed out. "I'll give him a 'proper kiss' when I feel ready for it, alright? And if he doesn't feel comfortable with it, then I'll just have to wait."

"He's a boy," Pansy scoffed. "Trust me, he's already comfortable with it."

"Wait…" Millie suddenly said, and everyone looked to her. "He's your father's Apprentice, Daphne. Lord Greengrass might not take this well."

"Actually, Ron asked me the old fashioned way," Daphne smiled, he really was the sweetest person sometimes. "He went to my mother and father, and he asked for their blessing first."

"Aw!" Pansy cooed, her hands clapping excitedly. "That's so romantic!"

"So he got their blessing?" Tracey asked, and Daphne nodded. "Then it's truly official, isn't it?! I'm so happy for you, Daph!"

"Thanks, Trace," Daphne smiled, and then she wondered if Ron was getting as much support as she was.

"Since you two are an official item now…" Pansy started, a devious smile creeping onto her face. "We must spread the word."

"Spread the word?" Millie asked, and Pansy nodded firmly.

"Ron is prized meat in this school," Pansy said, and Daphne felt her blood boil. "He's powerful, tall and well-built for his age, quite famous, has connections with influential Lords and Ladies, and now he owns a Magazine of his own. Every greedy witch is going to try and get his attention, so we need to act fast. By talking to the appropriate people, Brown and Patil, we can start rumors about you two dating. That will put the focus on you both, and when people see you walking around with your hands held together, it'll land a swift, and crushing, blow to all the competitors." Daphne, Tracey, and Millie exchanged slow looks, Pansy had clearly thought this through.

"They will still, of course, try and get his attention," Pansy went on. "But we know that Ron would never step out of line. He's too noble to dishonor you, or himself, in such a manner. Our main problem is the fallout when it comes to girls like Granger, or even little Tori, who clearly fancy Ron."

"Tori…" Daphne muttered, she had forgotten about her own sister. Damn it, I let my guard down.

"Just be straightforward with her, Daph," Tracey suggested. "She's your sister, and even if she'll never admit it, she loves you to bits. She'll understand. Plus, her crush on Ron is superficial at best. She just enjoys the attention that he gives her. I've seen her ogling at least a dozen boys over the last month."

"And Granger?" Millie asked. "She's apologized to us, and from what I can tell, she's really trying her best to make up with Ron. This could punch a hole in that."

"Granger can just sod off," Daphne hissed, she was going to make sure that Granger knew who Ron belonged to. And if she tries anything, I'll make sure that she never finds a job in Europe after Graduation. "His desire to be friends with the Trio is just… baffling."

"It is what it is," Tracey shrugged. "Forget them, Daph. Let's talk about seating arrangements."

"Seating arrangements?" Daphne asked slowly.

"Well, you have to sit with him from now on, don't you?" Tracey asked, and Pansy nodded.

"There's a loveseat at the Sanctuary, and one in our usual spot," Pansy said. "As for the Great Hall, we'll move Theo to sit between Tracey and myself. He won't mind that." Merlin, this is just the beginning, isn't it? They're going to keep me awake all night.

---

Tuesday 6th October, 1993 (The Great Hall – Breakfast)

"Theo, sit with us," Pansy smiled, and Theo cocked his eyebrow at her.

"Why?" Theo asked, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.

"Daphne and Ron should sit together," Tracey said, and both Ron and Theo exchanged looks. I'm so sorry, Ron. They wouldn't listen to me.

"Right…" Theo said slowly, and then he walked past Daphne and took her usual seat. The others all began sitting down at that, and Daphne sat down to Ron's right with a calm expression. She immediately felt Ron tap her left foot, and so she tapped his foot in return. Just bear with it.

"Let's eat," Blaise said, his smirk fixed on Theo.

"Is this going to be a thing now?" Theo asked the girls. "I just give up my seat for Daphne whenever she wants?" Trust me, I didn't ask for this.

"You don't want to sit next to me?" Tracey asked, and Theo blinked at her.

"I never said that," Theo put on his trademark smirk. "I get to sit with two Ladies during every meal. I'm living the dream here."

"You're so cute," Pansy hummed, and Theo straightened his back. And they got him.

"Malfoy, can you pass the butter please?" Ron asked, and Malfoy handed it to him.

"You should butter Daphne's toast first, Ron," Pansy said, and Ron blinked at her.

"There's no need for that," Daphne said coldly. "Ron, just enjoy your breakfast." Ron looked between the two girls, and then he slowly started buttering his own toast. Pansy clicked her tongue and shook her head, while Tracey let out an exaggerated sigh. I'm going to kill them. Yeah… Today's the day I go to Azkaban.

"What happened to chivalry?" Tracey asked, and Blaise barely held back a laugh. Both Ron and Daphne looked in his direction, and they saw him trying to hide his laughter.

"Stop it," Daphne said to Tracey and Pansy, who gave her confused looks. "Ron, I can make my own toast. Just enjoy your own breakfast, alright?"

"You know, in some cultures, it's the women who make the men toast," Theo pointed out, and all the girls just gave him venomous looks. "But not in ours, of course… In ours, people make their own toast. I mean, what's the World coming to if people can't make their own toast, eh?"

"Nice save," Malfoy drawled.

"Shut up, Malfoy," Theo muttered, his eyes going down on his own plate.

"Daph, I don't mind buttering your toast," Ron said, she could see that he wasn't certain of what he should be doing.

"Buttering her toast…" Blaise suddenly wheezed, while Tracey let out a cackle. "You butter that toast right up, Ron." Even Millie started laughing at that, much to Daphne's annoyance. They're going to piss him off! He hates people interrupting his meals!

"Ignore them, Ron," Daphne whispered. "They're just trying to have fun at our expense."

"Of course they are," Ron sighed, and then grabbed the jug of pumpkin juice.

"You should pour her a glass as well," Pansy told him, and Ron stopped mid pour. "It's good manners, Ron."

"Daphne… Would you like some pumpkin juice?" Ron asked, and she gave him a nod. He poured her a glass, and then he finished pouring his own.

"Daphne? You're not eating," Millie pointed out, and Daphne shot her an icy glare.

"She's waiting for Ron to get a clue," Tracey sighed.

"Ron, it's not that hard to make your girlfriend a plate," Blaise said, and Ron's face suddenly turned cold. And now he's pissed. Great.

"Any other advice?" Ron asked, his eyes darting between everyone. "What about you, Malfoy? Am I doing anything else wrong?"

"I'm just trying to eat here," Malfoy said blandly. "I suggest you ignore them and do the same."

"Ron, he's right," Daphne said, her foot rubbing his shin. "They're just having some fun. It's alright." Ron drew in a deep breath, and then he went back to his breakfast. Daphne shot her friends an angry glare, and they smiled sheepishly in return. It's like they want to be verbally abused first thing in the morning.

"So…" Theo said, his eyes traveling to Millie. "We missed you at our morning run."

"Sorry about that," Millie said. "We had a late night." Daphne rolled her eyes at that, and then she began making her own plate. Late night, she says. They kept me awake until two in the morning. As soon as I get a boyfriend, they all become dating experts. Pansy at least has some credibility, but the other two just kept droning on.

"We've decided that our class pairings should stay the same," Tracey told the boys. "You know, for consistency…" You just want to keep Ron as your Potions partner.

"Actually, I'll be pairing with Malfoy for Herbology and Potions from now on," Ron told them, and Tracey gaped at him.

"But I'm your Potions partner," Tracey said, her amusement replaced by slight hurt.

"He can't pair up with Crabbe and Goyle anymore, so it has to be one of us," Ron said, his voice cold and matter-of-factly. Malfoy kept his eyes focused on his plate, while Tracey glared murder at him.

"I pair with Goyle during Potions," Theo sighed out. "I'll partner with Malfoy for that class."

"You sure?" Ron asked, and Theo simply shrugged.

"He can't be worse than Goyle," Theo pointed out. "Goyle would just stand there like a boulder, while I did all the damn work. At least with Malfoy, I'll get some help."

"Alright," Ron nodded, and then he looked to Tracey. "Partners?"

"Yes," Tracey nodded, and then she shot Theo a sweet smile. Why can't Theo be like that all the time?

"And Herbology?" Millie asked.

"I'll do Herbology with him," Ron replied. "I usually just pair up with one of the Ravenclaws, so it should be me." Daphne looked towards Malfoy at that, and she couldn't help but frown at his lack of gratitude. You're welcome, you toad. "How's your Herbology, Malfoy?"

"I got an O in last year's exam," Malfoy replied, and Ron gave a satisfied nod.

"Well, that's settled then," Ron said, his attention returning to his meal.

"You two can sit closer, we won't say anything," Pansy spoke up, and Ron gave her a deadpan look. Well, I tried to keep him calm. See you in the afterlife, Pansy. Ron drew in another deep breath, and then he scooted closer to Daphne. Huh? Daphne just blinked at him, while Pansy and Tracey grinned.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Tuesday 6th October, 1993 (The Charms Classroom – Before Lunch)

"Mr. Weasley, could you stay behind a moment?" Professor Flitwick called, and Ron gave him a nod. The others students gave him quick looks, but they didn't slow down in leaving the classroom for lunch.

"We'll be right outside," Blaise said, and then he joined the others in leaving the classroom.

"Is everything alright, Professor?" Ron asked, he was certain that he hadn't done anything to warrant a scolding. Or did I? No, I paid attention in class and took down copious amounts of notes. I mean, I can already cast the Banishing Charm, but it was still nice to learn about it from Professor Flitwick.

"How are you recovering from your accident, Mr. Weasley?" Flitwick asked, and Ron immediately knew what this was about. He gave me the book which taught me how to shoot lightning.

"All healed," Ron put on a smile, while Flitwick simply nodded.

"I must admit, I never thought that you'd learn the Wandless variation of the Baubillious Charm so quickly," Flitwick said, a smile appearing on his face. "Ten points to Slytherin, Mr. Weasley, for your hard work and dedication." Oh. That's nice.

"Thanks, Professor," Ron smiled genuinely. "But the truth is that I won't be casting it again anytime soon. The Headmaster forbid me from it." And I don't think that I could even if I wanted to. It felt like a… fluke.

"He did that on my suggestion," Flitwick admitted, and Ron nodded slowly. "I was very careless, Mr. Weasley, and for that, I'm sorry."

"Careless, Sir?" Ron asked, and Flitwick walked closer to Ron and took a seat.

"Wandless Magic is… dangerous," Flitwick said slowly, and Ron immediately started paying attention. Another lesson? "May I share a story with you?"

"Certainly, Sir," Ron nodded, and Flitwick couldn't help but smile at Ron's attentiveness.

"When I started learning Wandless Magic in my youth, I wasn't nearly as committed as you," Flitwick told him. "I am ashamed to admit that my arrogance, which at the time was growing unchecked, blinded me. After all, I had mastered everything that my peers and I were being taught at Hogwarts, and I always mastered things before my peers. So when I began delving into Wandless Magic, I went in expecting great results."

"It didn't go well?" Ron asked, and Flitwick let out a chuckle.

"It most certainly did not," Flitwick replied. "I found that I had to relearn all the Spells that I had already mastered, which only served to vex me. And when I couldn't even lift a table without my wand by the end of my first week, I grew sour and impatient. And because of this, I tried a 'flashier' Spell from that book I gave you."

"Which Spell, Sir?" Ron asked, he hoped that it wasn't Baubillious.

"Flagellum Inferos," Professor Flitwick replied, a shudder passing through him.

"The Hell-Whip? That's what it means, right?" Ron asked, he had been planning to try out this Spell himself.

"An apt name," Flitwick nodded slowly. "My body was not properly prepared to act as a conduit yet, something that I had simply glossed over, and when the Spell refused to work because of this, I grew angry and even more impatient. That was the day I learned just how dangerous Wandless Magic can be, and why it is no longer practiced within European schools."

"What happened?" Ron asked.

"I lost control of the flames, and I hurt my friends," Flitwick replied, and all Ron could do was nod weakly. I nearly killed my friends. If they hadn't moved away from me, they would have been caught up in the blast.

"I really should've been more careful, right?" Ron asked, his voice scolding himself.

"Indeed," Flitwick sighed. "And I shouldn't have let my excitement get in the way of explaining the dangers of Wandless Magic. You see, Mr. Weasley, Wandless Magic is Magic in its purest form. It is Magic that is not altered by a wand's Core. It is simply… pure energy. And since this energy has to pass through your body, it can do a lot of damage if your body is not prepared for it. Now… Certain Spells, like the Levitation Charm, don't require much raw energy. But Spells like Baubillious… Well, they require a lot of energy."

"I ended up cooking the left side of my body," Ron grimaced, and Flitwick simply nodded.

"I know," Flitwick sighed, he was still chiding himself for his lack of foresight. "Due to the dangers that Wandless Magic poses to the host, most people don't even attempt to learn it. I myself never tried my hand at the more dangerous Spells, not after my accident. My body is not built for such a thing, sadly. But yours is, which is why I want you to think about these words. Wandless Magic can be very difficult to control, and in full honesty, it is outright dangerous."

"I'll be more careful from now on, Professor," Ron promised, he had no intention of stopping due to one accident.

"Just don't force a Spell if it isn't working, Mr. Weasley," Flitwick advised. "Mastery can only be achieved through patience and dedication. There are no shortcuts to success."

"I understand," Ron nodded. "Thank you, Sir. I'll keep your words in mind moving forward." I really will.

"Good man," Flitwick smiled, and then he hopped off of his chair.

"Sir… Did you ever try the Wandless variation of Fumos?" Ron asked, and Flitwick let out a chuckle.

"Did you choke?" Flitwick asked, and Ron nodded. "Here's a tip then. Make sure that your lungs are full of fresh air, and then cast the Spell. Choking is still a hazard, but having a lot of air in your lungs does help quite a lot." I'll remember that.

"Thanks, Professor," Ron smiled, and then he stood up. "I'm really grateful for the help."

"You are welcome, Mr. Weasley," Flitwick said. "Now, off you go."

---

Daphne Greengrass' POV

Tuesday 6th October, 1993 (The Girls' Room – Before Lunch)

"You should at least hold his hand," Pansy whined as she tossed her books onto her bed, and Daphne resisted the urge to roll her eyes. If these 'tips' don't stop, I'm going to drown myself in the Black Lake.

"It's only been a day, Pansy," Daphne told her, and Pansy let out an annoyed hiss.

"Holding hands isn't event that big of a deal," Pansy shot back.

"We've all held his hand before," Tracey quickly pointed out. "What's the harm in it, Daph?"

"I know that there's no harm in it," Daphne said, and then she looked to Millie. "Can you please say something to these two?"

"Bad," Millie smirked at Pansy and Tracey. "Stop it." Great.

"Just try it, alright?" Pansy suggested, and Daphne let out a defeated sigh.

"I'll try it after lunch," Daphne conceded, which made Pansy smile widely. "Happy?"

"Hey, we're trying to help you here," Tracey tutted, but Daphne knew that Tracey was just taking the piss out of her.

"Let's just go to lunch," Daphne said, and they all began making their way out.

"Oh, Tori's right there," Tracey pointed ahead of them, and Daphne looked to see Tori laughing loudly as she made her way towards the common room with the Carrow Twins. "Daphne, you should talk to her now." I really don't want to. I haven't even planned what I'm going to say.

"Tracey's right," Pansy said. "We plan to be 'overheard' by Patil and Brown during lunch today. Those two will pretty much tell everyone in Hogwarts by tomorrow morning. It'll be better if Tori hears it from you."

"Why are you two in such a rush to tell everyone?" Daphne demanded.

"We already told you," Pansy replied, a slightly confused look on her face. "Hogsmeade Weekend is coming up, and Ron will get approached nonstop unless we show people that he's off limits. Haven't you seen the fourth year girls gawking at him whenever he's around?" Oh, I have. And I've got their names filed away in my mind.

"I'm calling her over," Millie said, they were running out of time. "Tori!"

"Yes?" Tori called back, her head turning to face the girls. "Well, hello there!" Tori gestured for the twins to go on, and then she walked backwards to the girls. "What can I do for you?"

"I need to talk to you, little sister," Daphne said, making sure to sound calm and collected.

"Little sister? Am I in trouble?" Tori asked, her smile being replaced by a suspicious look. "If so, I don't want to talk to you."

"You're not in trouble, Astoria," Daphne sighed, what had Tori done this time? "You girls go on without me, Tori and I will follow you shortly."

"We'll be waiting outside the common room," Millie said, and then she all but pulled Tracey and Pansy with her. Tori just watched the others leave, and once they were gone, she turned her stare towards Daphne. Just get this done, Daphne.

"Let's go back to my room," Daphne said, and Tori nodded slowly. Daphne began making her way back, and Tori followed after her slowly. Why is she so suspicious? Merlin, what has she been up to? Daphne opened the door to her room, and then she signaled Tori to go inside.

"You first," Tori smiled, but Daphne's stare made her rethink her words. "Alright…"

"You're not in any trouble," Daphne assured her, and then she followed her sister inside. Once the door was closed, Daphne gestured Tori to take a seat.

"Just tell me what's happened," Tori groaned, much to Daphne's annoyance. "I'm hungry, Daphne." It's best if I just say it.

"Ron asked me out, and I said yes," Daphne told her sister, who just blinked in response. "We're dating now." An awkward silence filled the room, with both sisters just staring at each other. "Tori?"

"Ron asked you out?" Tori spoke up, and Daphne nodded. "And you said yes?"

"I did," Daphne replied, her tone as cold as usual.

"And you're dating now?" Tori asked, and Daphne gave her a nod. "Do mother and father know about this?"

"He asked for their permission first," Daphne replied, and Tori nodded slowly. And then, Tori frowned deeply. Here it comes.

"But I like Ron," Tori stomped her foot, and Daphne let out a tired breath. Here comes the tantrum. "You know that I like him, and you still said yes? Why would you do that?!"

"Tori, he asked me," Daphne said calmly.

"Why?" Tori demanded.

"Because he and I have feelings for each other," Daphne replied. "And he's always seen you as a little sister."

"But he gives me hugs and kisses," Tori huffed, her face turning slightly red.

"Just as he does with his other sisters," Daphne told her, and then she drew in a deep breath. "Tori, you don't even know him. Not really. You just enjoy the attention that he gives you, and I promise that he will still treat you the same way. Nothing will change between you two, I'll make sure of that."

"But I've told my friends that Ron likes me back!" Tori argued, her voice reaching a higher octave.

"You shouldn't have done that," Daphne rubbed her forehead. "Tori, you can't speak on other people's behalves."

"I don't want a lecture, Daphne," Tori stomped her foot again. "I want you to break up with him."

"I'm not doing that," Daphne said firmly. "Tori, this isn't up for debate. Now… I've always given you whatever you wanted. When you wanted my dolls, I handed them over. When you bought the dresses that I had my eyes on, I let you have them. When you wanted my jewelry, I gave you the entire set. I've always given you whatever you've wanted, but not this time. Ron is a person, and he's made his own choice. And I really, really like him… So please don't ruin this for me."

"I really like him too," Tori said petulantly, and Daphne decided to try a different tactic. Why does she always do this? Every time I want something, she tries to steal it.

"What's Ron's favorite color?" Daphne asked, and Tori blinked at her.

"What?"

"Answer me," Daphne said.

"Green," Tori said, though she sounded rather unsure of herself.

"It's blue," Daphne told her. "What's his favorite food?"

"What's that got to do with anything?" Tori asked back, she was starting to get annoyed.

"What's his favorite food?" Daphne repeated.

"I… Pork sandwiches," Tori grit out.

"That's my favorite," Daphne said. "Ron's favorite is Shepard's Pie. You don't even know something so basic about him." What would you do when he starts having a panic attack? Or when he breaks down from his stress?

"What is this?" Tori asked. "Are you trying to prove that you know him better than me? Of course you do, you follow him around everywhere." Daphne felt her temper flare, and her stare turned hard.

"Why must you always do this?" Daphne asked in a cold whisper. "Why is it that every time I want something, you have to steal it from me?"

"I don't do that," Tori waved a dismissive hand.

"Yes, you do," Daphne frowned. "You know that you do. And whenever I try to keep what I want, you throw a tantrum. Well, it's not going to work this time, Astoria. Mother and father won't just force me to give into your demands this time around. You can either be happy for me for once, or you can stay angry. But either way, I'm dating Ron."

"We'll see about that," Tori narrowed her eyes, and Daphne decided that enough was enough. Daphne calmly walked up to Tori, and then she put her hand against Tori's right cheek.

"I have never once struck you, little sister," Daphne whispered, and Tori blinked at her. "Despite your abhorrent behavior over the last ten years, I've never once raised my hand against you. But I am your older sister, and you will show me the respect that I am due. We believe in the Old Ways, Astoria. You will not challenge me in such a way, especially not in this House. Do you understand me?"

"I'm going to tell father about this," Tori mumbled, her eyes welling up.

"Then you go and do that," Daphne loomed over her. "But if you challenge me, I will leave my handprint on your face for the rest of your life. You need to grow up, Astoria. And don't bother making threats about father's power. I am his Heir, not you. We are done speaking about this. Now, tell me that you understand my words." Tori looked down at her feet, and for a moment, Daphne felt the need to apologize and hug her. "Astoria, you will answer me when I speak to you."

"I… I understand," Tori sniffled, and Daphne nodded slowly.

"I don't enjoy speaking to you like this," Daphne said gently. "But Astoria… You're not a child anymore. You need to start acting your age, or one day soon, you will truly anger mother and father. I already know for a fact that father is reaching his limit with your antics, and if you keep pushing him, then you will learn just how harsh he can be."

"What does that have to do with Ron?" Tori sniffled again.

"The point is that you don't really like Ron, you just like that he treats you like a princess," Daphne replied. "But Ron, like father, does not respect people who act so spoiled. Trust me, I learned that the hard way… With both of them." Daphne then raised Tori's head in order to meet her eyes. "I've had feelings for Ron since I was in first year, Astoria… And he's finally asked me to be his girlfriend. You will not take this away from me."

---

Tuesday 6th October, 1993 (The Great Hall – Near the End of Lunch)

Tori was pouting miserably at her plate, and every time Daphne looked in her direction, her pout seemed to worsen. Daphne knew that this was something that Tori did quite often in order to get her way, but it still made Daphne feel dreadful. Daphne hated that she had resorted to such cruel words with her little sister, but Tori needed to just grow up already. And Daphne had to make sure that Tori wouldn't do something that would embarrass the Greengrass name.

Besides her miserable sister, Daphne had to put up with a lot of looks being shot her way. Tracey and Pansy had been 'caught' speaking of Daphne and Ron's relationship by Patil and Brown, who had then proceeded to tell everyone on the Gryffindor table. Some of the boys on the Gryffindor table looked disappointed that she was off limits, but that didn't really bother her. What did bothered her were the angry glares being sent her way by a bunch of jealous witches. Daphne knew that this was just the start… Once word traveled all around Hogwarts, these glares would multiply exponentially. Damn Ron for being so popular. Why couldn't he just be normal?

"Are you alright?" Ron asked her, and she blinked at him. Huh?

"Pardon?" Daphne asked, she was too absorbed by her own thoughts.

"You're staring at me," Ron said slowly. "And not in a good way. Did I do something wrong?"

"If you have to ask that, then you probably have," Tracey sniggered, making the others chuckle.

"You've done nothing, Ron," Daphne assured Ron, her cold eyes darting towards Tracey. "I was just thinking." Ron went to say something, but the school bell cut him off.

"History of Magic…" Pansy whined, her happiness dying on her face.

"Professor Binns…" Theo frowned deeply. "Blaise, you have to keep me awake during this class."

"I was going to ask you that," Blaise said aloofly, and they all stood up to leave. Should I grab his hand now? Ugh… Why am I even thinking about this? I've held his hand a hundred times already. For Merlin's sake Daphne, are you a Greengrass or not? Daphne held her head high, schooled her features, and then she took his gloved hand in her left one. Ron blinked at her, and then he gave her a happy smile. See! Easy!

"She's doing it…" Pansy whispered excitedly, and both Ron and Daphne shot her frowns.

"Let's just go, Daph," Ron sighed out, and Daphne gave him a nod. They all began exiting the Great Hall, and Daphne completely ignored the looks that the other Slytherins were giving the new couple. Yes, we're dating now. Nothing to see here.

"What's wrong with Tori?" Ron suddenly asked, and Daphne looked to see her sister pouting miserably as she walked behind her friends. Seriously, Astoria? You're going to mope around like this in public?

"I talked to her about us," Daphne told Ron, and he nodded in understanding.

"She didn't take it well then," Ron said, and Daphne tightened her hold on his hand.

"She'll get over it," Daphne said coldly.

"Shite…" Ron suddenly muttered, and Daphne looked at him. He was staring at the exit of the Great Hall, and when she followed his gaze, she found his twin brothers smirking at them. "I'm about to get embarrassed in public."

"Just ignore them," Daphne suggested.

"Easier said than done," Ron whispered, and then he put on a smile for his brothers. "Fred. George."

"Hello, lover," Fred cooed, and Daphne bit back a frown.

"Before we say anything else," George started, his eyes fixed on Daphne. "We're terribly sorry that he's done this to you."

"He isn't blackmailing you, is he?" Fred smirked.

"We mean, how else did he get you to accept this torture?" George asked, the twins were now walking side by side with Ron and Daphne. Daphne could hear their friends sniggering in the background, and she elected to ignore them for now.

"Guys, can you not do this?" Ron asked his brothers, but they just shook their heads.

"We have to do this, Ronnikins," the twins said together.

"By the way, you have our blessing, of course," Fred said, and then he patted Daphne's head. Did he just…?

"Don't touch me like that," Daphne snapped. "Ill-mannered buffoon." Was he raised by dogs?

"You don't touch a Lady's head like that, Fred," Ron frowned deeply, and Fred raised his hands in mock surrender.

"Where are your manners, Fred?" George sniggered.

"He has clearly lost them," Daphne said coldly, she had half a mind to slap Fred Weasley for his disrespectful gesture. And judging by Ron's frown, he was thinking the same thing. As they neared the stairs leading down to the Dungeons, Daphne quickened her pace.

"Damn…" the twins frowned a little.

"We'll talk again after dinner, Ronnie," Fred promised.

"Welcome to the Family, Lady Greengrass," George cackled, and his twin joined him. Ugh…

"Sorry about them," Ron sighed as they began descending towards the Dungeons. "I'll tell them to not touch you like that again." Daphne shot a look up at the twins, but instead of seeing them, she saw the Golden Trio. Potter and Longbottom were having a conversation, while Granger was looking down at Ron and Daphne. Her expression suggested that she didn't really care, but when their eyes met, Granger quickly looked away.

"Granger was just looking at us," Daphne whispered, and Ron looked around. "She still has her eyes on you."

"Daph, I don't even think about her that way," Ron smiled at her, but that didn't stop Daphne from plotting Granger's murder in her mind. "Oh no, I know that look."

"What look?" Daphne asked.

"That dead-eyed look," Ron replied, and Daphne blinked at him. "Just ignore them, Daph. Who cares what they all think, anyway?"

"There were girls glaring at me during lunch," Daphne whispered, and Ron pulled up her hand and kissed it. Daphne heard a squeal from behind her, but she chose to ignore it. Damn you, Pansy…

"I had a few lads glare at me too," Ron smiled at her. "It's just how people are… They love talking about and looking down on other people. I personally couldn't care less about their opinions, and I know that you're the same."

"You're right," Daphne said, and then she drew in a deep breath. "This is just very different, that's all."

"I get what you mean," Ron nodded his agreement. "But I'm glad that I'm doing this with you." Daphne couldn't help but smile at that, he really was the sweetest person when he tried.

"Want to go for a walk after classes?" Daphne asked.

"Um… I have detention with Snape," Ron reminded her, and she clicked her tongue. "We can go for a walk tomorrow though."

"Tomorrow then," Daphne smiled, and Ron gave her a happy nod.

"Oh wait… I have Potions Club…" Ron said suddenly, and Daphne blinked at him. "And I've got a session with Pomfrey on Thursday…"

"Friday then," Daphne said, her smile dying down a little.

"I promised to play a few games of Chess with the Headmaster, not to mention the study group," Ron mumbled, his eyes darting forward. Chess? Is he serious? "And I have work on Saturday, and Dueling Training on Sunday… Monday I've got a session with Pomfrey, and then detention on Tuesday… Potions Club-"

"I get it," Daphne interrupted, her tone slightly snappish. "Merlin, Ron… Are you really that busy?" How have I not taken notice of his commitments this year? He really doesn't know when to turn off, does he?

"How about I skip my session with Pomfrey on Thursday?" Ron suggested, and Daphne shook her head.

"You are not skipping your sessions with her," Daphne said firmly, and then she put her brain to work. "We have a free on Friday, right?"

"Right," Ron nodded.

"We'll go for a walk then," Daphne said, and Ron nodded once again. "And we'll try and make more time for each other in-between classes and our commitments."

"I'm in," Ron said, and then he gave her a sorry smile. "Sorry about my busy schedule, Daph."

"We'll work around it," Daphne promised, and she planned to keep that promise.

---

Hermione Granger's POV

Wednesday 7th October, 1993 (Potions Lab – After Classes)

Daphne Greengrass… That's who Ron had settled on? Hermione had promised herself to not judge Ron's friends without getting to know them, but despite her vow, she felt rather bitter about Ron's most recent decision.

Jealousy was a feeling that she was starting to get used to, which was the last thing that she wanted. But try as she might, she just couldn't help it. He had picked Daphne Greengrass?! Why was she the only person in the Golden Trio who was surprised by this? Harry and Neville had both mentioned that they knew that Ron and Greengrass were far too close to one another, but Hermione hadn't listened to them. They had no proof of Ron's affection for Greengrass, but now they did. Everyone was now talking about Ron and Greengrass. Most people had the gall to claim that they had seen this coming for 'ages', while a few were either annoyed with Ron, or annoyed with Greengrass. Hermione, as sad as it was, was annoyed with Greengrass.

"Hermione, are you there?" Ron called, and Hermione broke out of her thoughts. "Can you please pass me the crushed fangs?"

"Oh… Here," Hermione said as she passed him the mortar, and Ron looked at the fangs with a confused look.

"Hermione?! You didn't crush them?!" Ron asked, and Hermione blinked at him. "Bloody hell, hurry please!" Hermione quickly took the mortar and began crushing the fangs, all the while mentally scolding herself. I need to stop getting distracted. So what if Ron likes girls like Greengrass? It's none of my business, remember? I promised to move on, and to concentrate on my studies. For the love of God, I'm at a school! I should only focus on my studies.

"Sorry about that," Hermione sighed out, and then she passed him the mortar. Ron took a look at the 'crushed' fangs, and then he added them in with a slight frown.

"Those will have to do," Ron shook his head, and then he looked to Hermione. "You take over the cauldron, and I'll prep the ingredients. You seem a little distracted today." What?

"It was one mistake, Ron," Hermione said haughtily. "I'll prepare the ingredients, and you stay on the cauldron."

"Alright," Ron said slowly, his eyebrow cocking at her.

"What?" Hermione asked.

"Nothing…" Ron replied, his eyes going back to the cauldron. Hermione drew in a sharp breath, and then she walked over to the Newt Eyes. As she began preparing them, Ron shot her a quick look.

"What is it, Ron?" Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Not only are you distracted, but you're also moody," Ron pointed out, and Hermione narrowed her eyes on him. Moody? That's so rude. "Do you want to talk about it?" I'd rather dunk my head in that cauldron.

"It's just some Gryffindor business," Hermione lied, and much to her surprise, Ron seemed to relax a little. He looks relieved… Why?

"Well… Do you want to talk about it?" Ron asked once again. "Maybe I can help out?" Trust me, you don't want to help me this time. Not unless you plan to dump Greengrass anytime soon.

"It's nothing to worry about," Hermione said, and then she began slicing the Newt Eyes. They began working in silence after that, much to Hermione's relief and annoyance. She was relieved that he had bought her lie, but she was annoyed because she was now stuck in her own head again. Five minutes passed, but the silence seemed to elongate them to an absurd level. Eventually, she got fed up with just working quietly.

"So… You and Greengrass…" Hermione spoke before thinking, and they both tensed because of her words. I'm an idiot! Why did I say that?!

"Ahem," Ron cleared his throat. "Yeah… I asked her out, and thank Merlin, she said yes." Damn, so he was the one who asked her. A part of Hermione had hoped that Greengrass was the one who had asked Ron, mostly because that would result in Ron not being as serious about the relationship as Greengrass.

"I don't mean to overstep, but shouldn't you focus on your schooling right now? Both of you, that is," Hermione said, and Ron blinked at her. I'm digging myself into a hole… "I mean, you seem really busy to me. You have work, your studies, and this business of yours… To add a relationship on top is kind of overkill, isn't it?" God, what am I doing?!

"Daphne makes my work, studies, and business feel less troublesome," Ron said, his eyes going back to the cauldron. Less troublesome? Hermione stared at Ron for a few seconds, he was focusing on the cauldron's heat.

"Did she know about your business?" Hermione asked suddenly. "It's just that you kept it a secret from everyone but your 'investors'."

"Daphne knew," Ron replied, and Hermione felt a pang of anger. Of course he told her. Why wouldn't he? "My Family, my Slytherin friends, and Neville knew about it."

"Why did you just tell Neville?" Hermione asked, making sure to not sound bitter about it. "Why not Harry and me as well?"

"Neville found out because his Gran told him about it," Ron replied, why did he sound so calm and collected? "She helped me a lot with getting the business up and running."

"Right," Hermione nodded, and then she passed him the sliced Newt Eyes. "Just out of curiosity, what's your business really about? I've heard that The Quibbler is mostly just filled with tall tales. Things like monsters that don't even exist."

"I'm rebooting The Quibbler," Ron told her. "It'll focus more on news."

"But the Daily Prophet already does that," Hermione pointed out.

"The Daily Prophet lies and twists facts in order to spread its own agenda," Ron said, and Hermione cocked an eyebrow at him.

"And what agenda is that?" Hermione couldn't help but ask.

"That everything is perfectly alright," Ron replied, something that made Hermione feel slightly confused. "That the Ministry isn't a corrupt institute which no longer serves its people. That instead of serving the masses, it only serves a select few who kiss the proper arses to get ahead in life."

"The Ministry is the government, Ron," Hermione frowned a little. "You shouldn't talk about it like that. You could get in a lot of trouble for saying things like that."

"Oh, I'm counting on it," Ron chuckled, and Hermione blinked at him.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Hermione asked, but Ron didn't reply. "Ron? What do you mean by that?"

"I want to help people who don't have a voice," Ron said, a soft smile on his face. "People like Werewolves who can't get jobs anymore, or Squibs who are mistreated and forgotten simply because they don't have Magic." That… That actually sounds very noble. "I didn't even know about any of this, but now that I do, I just feel the need to do something about it. But it's going to cause me problems."

"Problems?" Hermione asked slowly.

"My dad says this Muggle saying sometimes," Ron started. "You can't make breakfast without cracking a few eggs." Hermione couldn't hold back her chuckle at that, and Ron gave her a bemused smile. "What?"

"The actual saying is that you can't make an omelette without cracking a few eggs," Hermione corrected him, and Ron nodded to himself.

"An omelette, eh?" Ron said to himself. "I'll have to tell dad about that. He's been saying it wrong for years."

"So you're going to report on people who are not being represented properly?" Hermione asked, and Ron nodded. "That's quite noble of you, Ron. Everyone should be treated equally."

"Not everyone," Ron whispered, his smile disappearing. "Just those who deserve it." What? "I mean, I don't plan on representing people who want to spread hate, no matter what the degree is."

"You mean the Pure-Bloods?" Hermione asked, and Ron shot her a frown. "What?"

"I'm a Pure-Blood," Ron reminded her, and she couldn't help but detect pride in his voice. It immediately made her feel uneasy, especially because his Family didn't care about that sort of nonsense. "I meant everyone who uses their power to needlessly abuse others."

"But it's mostly the Pure-Blood Families that abuse their power," Hermione said firmly. "People like the Malfoys."

"And?" Ron asked.

"And what?" Hermione asked back.

"List another Pure-Blood Family that abuses its power," Ron said, and Hermione just stared at him.

"Well, the Families that served the Dark-Lord," Hermione said.

"Most of his forces were made up of Dark Creatures," Ron drawled. "Vampires, Werewolves, Banshees… As for the humans that served him, most of them were Half-Bloods. I mean think about it… The Sacred Twenty Eight are just that… Twenty Eight. Around half of those Families ran away from Europe, which means that only around ten of the Sacred Twenty Eight stood by the Dark Lord. The rest didn't want a war, they just got caught up in one. Judging the Sacred Twenty for the actions of around ten Families isn't fair. After all, my Family is a part of the Sacred Twenty Eight as well. So is Neville's, actually."

"Of all the Pure-Blood Families that can abuse their power, the Malfoys are the only ones who actively stick their fingers into politics," Ron went on, and truth be told, she didn't like this conversation very much. She had no clue what he was even on about anymore, she didn't care enough about the 'Pure-Bloods' to learn about them. "And sure, some Pure-Blood beliefs are just idiotic, but to judge them all for the actions of the few would be the definition of bigotry. It's the same as hating all the Slytherins simply because a few of them are morons, or calling all the Ravenclaws 'bookworms' just because their House values knowledge and intellect."

"You've given this a lot of thought," Hermione said, mostly because she didn't know what else to say.

"I've had to," Ron shrugged. "I'm a Blood-Traitor in Slytherin… That means that people from both sides hate me. I have bigoted Slytherins wishing me dead, and I have Gryffindors who call me a traitor." Hermione froze at that, Ron's words were starting to make a lot of sense. He's talking about Ginny? "No matter what I do, someone is always pissed off." Ron then shook his head clear, and he gave Hermione a smile. "Sorry about the rant. I don't usually think out loud like that."

"It's alright," Hermione said slowly. "Ron… About Ginny-"

"It's alright," Ron patted her arm with his gloved hand. "All I wanted to say was that you don't have to be a Pure-Blood to hate others. Everyone is capable of hate. Everyone."

"You mean the Muggle-Borns?" Hermione asked, her tone becoming curt.

"Don't you hate Malfoy?" Ron asked her, and Hermione blinked at him.

"No, I don't," Hermione replied, though her voice gave away how she felt about the boy who had constantly targeted her friends. He had also been the first person to call her a 'Mud-Blood', an action which had made her a regular target for that slur by the other Slytherin bullies.

"Yes, you do," Ron said softly, his eyes fixed on hers. "I saw how you glared at him in the Courtyard… I saw how confused you were that I was even associating with him."

"I don't hate him," Hermione lied, but her meek voice betrayed her again.

"Ginny hates him," Ron said, and Hermione felt the need to avert her gaze from his. "Does that make Ginny a bad person?" Hermione shook her head weakly. "Does Ginny's hatred of Malfoy make the rest of us Weasley's bad people?" Hermione once again shook her head. "Everyone is capable of hate, Hermione. People aren't just 'good' or 'bad'… They are simply the product of their choices."

"You sound like the Headmaster," Hermione whispered.

"That's because I'm repeating his words to me," Ron told her, and Hermione nodded slowly. Everyone is capable of hatred… I do hate Malfoy, or at least I think I do. I know that I can't stand to even look at him, just like he can't stand to look at me. "All of this is to say that 'equality' isn't what I'm trying to achieve with The Quibbler. I just want people to know more about the World around them, because I know that there are people out there who will choose to help their fellow human beings if they know just how bad some people have it. If I wanted 'equality', then I would have to represent everyone."

"So you have an agenda as well," Hermione said, she was beginning to understand his point.

"Exactly," Ron said. "Everyone has an agenda, just like everyone is capable of spreading hate. You just have to choose which agenda you can stand behind, and which agenda you want to contest."

"That… is a lot to think about," Hermione admitted. "I never have conversations like this with Harry and Neville." Harry is so sure of what he believes in, while Neville tends to avoid any form of confrontation.

"Well, if you ever want to discuss things, I'm always here," Ron smiled, and Hermione smiled back.

"I'll take you up on that, Ronald Weasley," Hermione said, and Ron just nodded in response.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Wednesday 7th October, 1993 (Potions Lab – End of Potions Club)

"Mr. Weasley, stay behind a moment," Snape ordered, and Ron gave him a nod.

"I'll see you at dinner, Ron," Hermione waved goodbye, and he waved back. Let's hope that she takes my words to heart. And even if she doesn't, I've at least given her something other my relationship with Daphne to concentrate on. The last thing I need is Hermione turning sour against me again. Once the whole lab was empty, Ron let out a long groan.

"I'm so bloody tired," Ron told Snape, who merely cocked an eyebrow at him.

"I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with Granger," Snape said, and Ron let out a chuckle.

"Couldn't help it?" Ron asked. "I saw you actively hover around us for over fifteen minutes, Sir."

"How observant of you," Snape drawled, his tone suggesting boredom. "You have an interesting take on agendas. I'm glad to see that you are learning something from Albus."

"Not just him," Ron said. "I'm learning from you as well, Sir."

"Is that so?" Snape said icily.

"I came into Hogwarts fearing you, did you know that?" Ron asked, and Snape just stared at him. "My brothers told me horror stories about you, and after you made me cry that one time, I started sharing their opinion of you. But now… Now I respect you. Actually, I respect you just as much as I respect the Headmaster." Maybe a little less, but he doesn't need to know that.

"You really shouldn't," Snape said, and then he walked over to his desk.

"Maybe," Ron shrugged. "You can be quite the bully sometimes, and you do tend to enjoy scaring students on purpose… But you're also a member of the Order. You risk your life for the greater good of Wizarding-kind, and you never say a word about it. That's quite heroic of you, if I might say so myself."

"It is anything but heroic," Snape sneered, and Ron couldn't help but wonder if Snape hated being called a 'hero'.

"Either way, I've come to the conclusion that I can't just judge people by association," Ron said. "I actually believed Regulus Black to be a weak coward, and then Kreacher told me the truth, and it was like I got slapped in the face. I… I like to think that if Ginny knew the truth about me, she wouldn't have been so harsh with me. Her, and the rest of my Family."

"If only life was that fair," Snape said, his eyes fixed on Ron.

"Well, my Family is slowly coming around," Ron said hopefully. "Maybe Ginny will too."

"You want to learn from me? Then learn this… The person who tries to please everyone is the person who has no conviction," Snape said. "People are indeed the product of their choices, and you have chosen your path."

"So I should just give up on a Future where my Family understands me?" Ron asked, he was never going to do that.

"I never said that," Snape replied. "What I'm saying is that you need to focus on the war, not on your little sister's latest tantrum. As for using The Quibbler to 'help the needy', just make sure that you don't make too many enemies. We need The Quibbler for our plans, remember?"

"I remember," Ron nodded. "But I also remember vowing to help as many people as I could along the way. I didn't buy The Quibbler to put Amelia Bones into power. I bought it so that I could do something good for other people. People like Priscilla…" It's been months, but I still think about her. I don't know if that's a good thing, or a bad thing. "Anyway… Hermione seemed to listen to what I had to say."

"Mind sharing your scheme?" Snape asked, his intrigue masked by his expressionless face. Why not?

"The Headmaster wants me to be allies with the Golden Trio, right?" Ron asked, and Snape gave him a nod. "Well, Neville is already very understanding. Somehow, being bullied often has made him rather accepting of others. Hermione and Harry, however, are a lot more… stubborn. Hermione recently apologized to my friends after I called her out on her hypocrisy, which made me realize that she's not beyond reason."

"You are trying to influence her?" Snape asked.

"If Harry can influence my sister, then I can influence his friends," Ron shrugged casually. "I'll keep Hermione and Neville close to me, and by extension, Harry himself. Maybe they'll get through to him, and he'll finally get his head out of his arse."

"Not bad," Snape smirked, and Ron smiled at him. "Not bad at all, Ron."

"Why… Thank you," Ron said, it felt rather satisfying to hear those words from Snape.

"And how are things with my Godson?" Snape asked.

"Progressing slowly," Ron admitted, but Snape gave him an understanding nod. "He really hates me, you know. I can see it… Whenever he thinks that no one is looking, he gives me this look of utter disgust and contempt. He barely talks, but he makes sure that we know that he's there. Things in the group are a little strained because of his presence. We don't openly talk to each other anymore…"

"I am sorry to hear that," Snape said.

"Are you?" Ron asked, his gaze meeting Snape's.

"I am," Snape replied. "He plans to regain his favor within the House through you, and while you go up against Marcus Flint, he'll attempt to turn the House against you."

"The House? You mean the Triumvirate," Ron said, and Snape nodded. "He knows that the Triumvirate are currently unhappy with me. Clever bastard…"

"Fix your relationship with them, and his plans will be delayed," Snape advised.

"Or I can just make him submit," Ron countered, and Snape just stared through him. "That was a joke, of course. You're right about the Triumvirate. I might not like them throwing their weight around near me, but they are infinitely better as allies than enemies. I'll talk to them tomorrow at some point." And oddly enough, I do miss them. They were genuinely kind towards me.

"You do that," Snape said, and Ron stood up. "Don't forget to meditate tonight, Ron. Half an hour, that's all."

"I'll do that, Sir," Ron promised. "I'll see you at dinner."

"Indeed," Snape drawled, his eyes darting down at his work. "Close the door behind you."

---

Thursday 8th October, 1993 (Dumbledore's Office – After Lunch)

"Come in," came Dumbledore's voice, and Ron opened the door and entered. "What brings you here during your spare periods, Ronald? And why are you dressed so fashionably?" I like wearing nice suits.

"I wanted to talk to you," Ron replied as he closed the door, and then he approached the Headmaster's desk. "I need permission to go back home for around thirty minutes."

"Today?" Dumbledore asked, and Ron gave him a nod. "May I ask why?"

"My mother sent my sister a Howler, and I want to ask her to not send another one on my behalf," Ron replied, and Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. "And then, I plan to go to Grimmauld Place. I want to talk to Sirius about Harry's ever-growing interest in my comings and goings. If I can get Sirius to take up Harry's attention, then I should be able to secure a brief respite from said intrigue."

"I see," Dumbledore said, and then he smiled his kind smile. "You have my permission then."

"Thank you, Headmaster," Ron smiled back. "May I use your fireplace?"

"Certainly," Dumbledore replied, and Ron turned to leave. "But before you go…"

"Yes?" Ron turned back around.

"This letter came to me this morning," Dumbledore said, and then he reached into his desk and pulled out said letter. "It is from Barnabas Cuffe."

"He sent you a letter?" Ron asked, he hadn't seen that coming. He definitely knows that I stole The Quibbler out from under him by now.

"He asked me to arrange a meeting with you," Dumbledore replied, and Ron frowned at the letter. "He wishes to speak to you on Saturday."

"Well, you can tell him that I have work on Saturday," Ron said. "Oh, and tell him that if he wants to meet me, then he should send me a letter. He clearly thinks that if you order me to attend this meeting, then I'll be forced to attend. He wants to remove the choice from my hands."

"My thoughts exactly," Dumbledore chuckled. "He clearly has no idea that you're not just another thirteen year old. I won't deny that I feel pity for him, he is, after all, in for a nasty surprise."

"Are you suggesting that I'm a nasty person?" Ron laughed.

"I would never suggest such a thing," Dumbledore smiled at him, his eyes filled with mirth. "One more thing before you go, dear boy. Remus told your Family about your accident."

"I was wondering about that," Ron admitted. "Why didn't they come see me?"

"He assured them that you were safe on my orders," Dumbledore replied. "I hope you don't mind, but I decided that you had enough on your plate as is. Your parents' worry and anger would only serve to vex you, and in doing so, hinder your recovery."

"You know me so well," Ron smirked. "Thank you, Headmaster. I really appreciate you letting me recover in peace."

"And now that peace will end by your own hands," Dumbledore said, his eyes darting towards the fireplace. "Take your time, Ronald. And please, try not to lose your temper. If they do scold you, it is because they love you."

"I understand, Headmaster," Ron nodded. "I'm actually doing a lot better recently. Things are looking up for me again."

"Yes, they certainly are," Dumbledore chuckled, and Ron blinked at him. "Feel free to buy the young Lady Greengrass some flowers on the way back. Girls, no matter their upbringing, always love flowers."

"You really held onto that for our entire chat?" Ron frowned, while Dumbledore just smiled at him.

"I really did," Dumbledore replied, he was clearly enjoying this far too much. Turn the tables on him, Ron.

"You have bread crumbs in your beard," Ron lied.

"No, I don't," Dumbledore chuckled. "I haven't eaten bread in two days, my boy."

"I hate you," Ron drawled as he turned around and walked towards the fireplace, all the while ignoring the old man's laughter. Damn crazy old codger. Ron took a flinch of floo-powder, and then he cast it into the fire. "Twelve Grimmauld Place," Ron chanted, deciding to visit Sirius first. The fire blazed green, and Ron stepped through it.

"You left your floo open, Black?!" a man growled as soon as Ron stepped into Grimmauld Place, and Ron found himself staring at a man with a scarred and mangled face. The man's vivid, electric blue Magical Eye focused on Ron, and before Ron could even react, he found himself being pinned against the chimney via a Levitation Charm. What the fuck?!

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: And there it is! This Chapter was a little shorter than the recent ones, but that's mostly due to my busy schedule these days. Anyway, Ron vs Moody in the next Chapter! Some more Voldemort, Order of the Phoenix, a little time skip, Harry POV, and maybe even Ron and Daphne first date!

See you guys on Wednesday!