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.

86. Chapter 86 - No Rest for the Wicked

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 86 is here! Sorry about being late, life got busy af! I'm looking for a job, so there's that mess to deal with. Real life sucks butthole, doesn't it?

Please Enjoy!

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Harry Potter, and I do not intend to make any money off of this. Harry Potter is the intellectual property of J. K. Rowling , and I take no credit of it whatsoever.

I was also inspired by Demon Eyes Laharl's: THE RED KNIGHT! and also from Random-Fruitcake04's: CHOICES! I hope you check them out as well because they are genuinely very good stories.

---

Fate

Chapter 86 - No Rest for the Wicked

Ronald Weasley's POV

Dream Hogwarts

"Entity!" Ron called as he walked into the Courtyard, his eyes scanning the colorless surroundings. "Where are you?!"

"Champion, come closer…" the Entity spoke, and Ron immediately stopped moving as he spotted the Entity's form. It was a horrible amalgamation of human body parts and toad-like eyes, and Ron immediately vomited as his mind began to process what it had just seen. What the fucking fuck…?

"Change… Change forms…" Ron managed before he completely emptied his stomach.

"Approach…" the Entity whispered, and Ron stumbled away from his mess. Ugh… I'm going to vomit again… What did I just see?

"What was that?" Ron muttered, his back turned to the Entity.

"Turn around…" the Entity growled, and Ron felt his body resist his brain.

"I'm trying… I can't think…" Ron blinked repeatedly, it was as if his brain was forcing itself to shut down. "This has… has… never… happened…" Ron fell to his knees, his stomach twisting from absolute fear and anxiety. "What's… happening…? Why… am I here?" It was Xeno… Or maybe Luna… An open chest cavity filled with unblinking eyes… Mangled appendages… Gaping pores leaking pus… Ron gagged again, but nothing came out.

"Champion… You are killing yourself," the Entity spoke, and Ron curled in on himself. His body began to shake, and he wasn't sure if he was breathing anymore. Bloodied flesh… Maggots feasting… Ron's vision began to darken, and then, he was gone.

---

"WAKE UP!"

Ron jerked awake, his breathing erratic. Where am I? Ron stood up in a hurry, but his legs felt weak and wobbly, which caused him to stumble to his side. Ron just lay there, his face pressed against the cold stones of the Courtyard.

"I can't remember… What did I see?" Ron whispered to himself. He was certain that he had seen something that had nearly driven him mad, but try as he might, he couldn't remember it.

"You saw Us," the Entity replied, and Ron heard himself whimper. "Or at least, a very small part of Us. Your mind tried to conceive an image for you, but it was overwhelmed by the unimaginable. We have wiped the memory from your mind for your safety."

"My safety?" Ron whispered, his face still pressed against the ground.

"We are too weak to assume a proper form… A mistake on Our part…" the Entity's voice echoed around him, and Ron rolled onto his back with great effort.

"A mistake?" Ron asked, he was surprised to hear the Entity admit fault for once. "Are you still hurt?"

"We are savaged…" the Entity replied, and Ron wasn't sure how he felt about that.

"Fate hasn't helped you?" Ron couldn't help but ask, his eyes marveling the colored lights in the sky. They're back?

"She observes, and Chronicles," the Entity replied. "Of all the Aspects of Creation, she is the most indifferent."

"Aspects of Creation?" Ron asked.

"Death… Fate… Time… Dream… Love… Destruction… The Beings spawned at the Beginning of Creation," the Entity said, its voice suddenly filled with malice and bitterness. "The Beings that serve as the Foundation of the Infinite Realms, and who keep it in balance. Enemies of the Void…" Fucking hell… What the fuck is it talking about?

"I don't know what you're on about…" Ron muttered to himself, he just wanted to go back to the real Hogwarts. "Just stop… I don't want to know… It's too much… I have no place in this…"

"Very well," the Entity obliged. "There is something that we must show you, Champion."

"What is it?" Ron asked, his eyes glazed over. Such pretty lights. What do they represent in my mind?

"The Beginning of the Cycles."

---

Ron found himself standing over a very familiar hill, and after glancing around, he realized that he was on Stoatshead Hill again. The only difference this time was that it was nighttime, and there was no feeling of peace. If anything, Ron felt cold and alone.

"Useless…" a cold voice whispered, and Ron shot panicked looks around himself. Who the fuck was that? "Cowardly. Weak. You are not needed here. They are better off without you. Look at them. They don't need to involve you because they understand that you have nothing to offer. You are a burden to them. You are a burden to her."

"Who the fuck are you, bitch?!" Ron yelled, his temper flaring.

"I thought you knew what you'd signed up for," came Harry's voice, it was rough and strained. Harry? Am I hearing a past life's experience?

"Yeah, I thought I did too," came his own voice, it was laced with bitterness. That answers that. Ron decided to listen quietly, maybe he could hear something useful from this memory.

"So what part of it isn't living up to your expectations?" Harry demanded angrily. "Did you think that we'd be staying in five star hotels? Finding a Horcrux every other day? Did you think you'd be back to Mummy by Christmas?"

"We thought we knew what you were doing!" his own voice yelled, and Ron flinched from the sudden increase in volume. "We thought Dumbledore had told you what to do, we thought you had a real plan!"

The voices became distorted, and Ron felt the back of his head begin to ache. The wind around him began to howl, and before long, Ron was shielding his face from the stormy winds. He could feel a presence near him, but when he looked around through squinted eyes, he saw nothing.

"Take off the Locket, Ron," came Hermione's voice, it was unusually high. "Please take it off. You wouldn't be talking like this if you hadn't been wearing it all day."

"Yes, he would," Harry spat out. "D'you think I haven't noticed the two of you whispering behind my back? D'you think I didn't guess you were thinking this stuff?"

"Harry, we weren't-" Hermione started, but his own voice cut her off.

"Don't lie!" his voice bellowed, and Ron shielded his ears. "You said it too, you said you were disappointed, you said you'd thought he had a bit more to go on then-"

"I didn't say it like that- Harry, I didn't!" Hermione cried, and Ron found himself getting irritated.

"Stop fighting each other, you idiots!" Ron yelled into the night. "What kind of friends are you three?! Throw away the Locket! It's Dark Magic!"

"So why are you still here?" Harry hissed.

"Search me," his own voice spat out.

"Go home then!" Harry roared.

"Yeah, maybe I will!" his own voiced roared back. Golden lightning thundered above Ron, and he look up to see the clouds forming a maelstrom.

"Oh, fuck!" Ron yelled in panic, and then he tried to bolt towards safety. A golden light could be seen in the middle of the maelstrom, and as Ron ran towards the trees on top of the hill, the light kept growing in intensity. By the time Ron reached the trees, the night had given way to a golden hue that engulfed the hills. "What's happening?! Fate?!"

Golden lightning cracked through the sky once again, and a low hum began to emanate from the golden light. Ron felt as if the Earth was vibrating under his feet, and so he steadied himself by holding onto the nearest tree. Ron couldn't deny that he was genuinely frightened right now. It was as if the entire planet was trembling from fear, and the howling wind served as its scared voice.

"Leave the Horcrux!" came Harry's voice, and Ron barely managed to hear it.

"What are you doing?" his own voice came.

"What do you mean?" Hermione cried.

"Are you staying, or what?" his voice questioned bitterly.

"I…" Hermione muttered. "Yes- yes, I'm staying. Ron, we said we'd go with Harry, we said we'd help-

"I get it. You choose him," his voice said bitterly.

"Ron, no! Please come back! Come back!" Hermione wept and screamed, and Ron heard a crack much like Disapparating. "I love you... Don't leave me…"

That's when Ron heard a whip-like crack from behind him, and when he turned around, he saw an older version of himself marching out of the trees. The older Ron was rugged, badly shaven, wore tattered clothes, and looked terribly pale. Ron couldn't help but notice that his counterpart was wearing his arm in a bloody sling, and that he was clutching onto a wand with his free, trembling hand.

"He left them to come here?" Ron asked himself, but his musing was disrupted by golden lightning and thunder. The older Ron suddenly stopped walking, and he began to look around with wide-eyes.

"Notice something different, did you?!" Ron yelled at his counterpart, all the while holding onto a tree for dear life. "Fucking run, you imbecile!"

"Mum… Dad…" the older Ron muttered, his shocked eyes darting in the direction of the Burrow. "What's going on?!"

"Run!" Ron yelled at his counterpart, and much to his surprise, his counterpart did exactly that. The older Ron began to run as fast as he could down the hill, his eyes fixed in the direction of the Burrow.

"What the fuck is going on?!" the older Ron yelled, and just as he finished, a golden lightning bolt struck him.

"Bloody hell!" Ron yelled as his counterpart simply crumpled. "Oh, shite… Oh, fucking shite…" Ron slid down the tree's side, his scared eyes fixed on his smoking counterpart. "She fucking killed him…"

"Not quite," came a voice from behind him, and Ron jerked around. A young boy stood right behind him, his handsome young face supporting a half-smile. "I told you not to linger here, didn't I?"

"What? Who are you?" Ron managed, the wind had picked up even more and Ron could barely keep his eyes open. The young boy, however, didn't even seem to register the wind.

"Just watch, Ronald," the young boy said softly, his sharp black suit flapping in the wind. "My sister is about to do something very cruel."

"What the fucking shite are you talking about?" Ron whimpered, his heart beating in his ears. "Stop this! Please!"

"Don't be afraid, mortal," the boy said in a gentle voice, and then his blue eyes began to glow. "She is here."

Ron looked back to his counterpart, who was twitching weakly, and Ron found himself wanting to shelter his dying counterpart. Something terrible was coming, Ron could feel it in his bones. And that's when the golden light in the sky exploded, and Ron quickly hid his eyes from the blinding light.

"Watch," the boy said, and Ron somehow managed to look back to his counterpart.

Ron's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates at the sight of a golden woman descending down from the heavens. Her beauty was indescribable, but if Ron had to choose one word, he'd choose 'Divine'. Her golden hair flowed behind her as she descended, its length was twice the size of her body. And within her hands was a black flame, one that was filled with crimson, toad-like eyes. Entity?

Ron slowly stood up, his eyes fixed on the most beautiful being that he had ever seen. And then, without even thinking, Ron began to walk towards her. He could feel the Earth calming down because of her presence, just as he was, and the closer he got to her, the safer he felt. She had an air of tranquility about her, and although her face showed indifference, it did nothing to mar her beauty. As she landed beside his counterpart, Ron fell to his knees in awe.

"Champion, you have doomed this Universe," Fate spoke, her voice was as soft as the clouds that she had descended from. "Why did you abandon your post?"

"They fought," Ron told Fate, but she didn't seem to hear him. Her golden eyes were fixed on his counterpart, who was still twitching from the lightning bolt. "He left them…"

"Harry Potter will drown, and the Lord of Serpents will continue to live," Fate spoke to his counterpart. "The balance between Life and Death has been broken. You will fix what you have shattered." The black flame in her hands began to resist her, but to no avail. "The World-Eater will guide you. See through its eyes, Champion. Redemption awaits you."

"Redemption?" Ron asked Fate, but once again, she didn't seem to hear him. She can't see me, can she? I'm in the past, right? Fuck, this is so confusing.

The black flame was pulled into his counterpart's back, which resulted in his counterpart screaming and thrashing about. Ron quickly got off of his knees, the indifferent look on Fate's face shattered his illusions about her 'Divinity'. His counterpart screamed so loudly that Ron had to cover his ears, he had never seen a creature in so much pain before. And then, the older Ron just stopped. He's… dead…

"A bit harsh, don't you think?" came the young boy's voice, and both Ron and Fate looked to him.

"Dream," she greeted, and the young boy shot Ron a wink. Fate followed her brother's gaze to Ron, but she saw nothing. Ron, on the other hand, froze as her golden eyes lingered in his direction. It was a terrible feeling; being in awe of something that frightened you unlike anything ever had.

"This Universe is coming undone," Dream hummed, his young face harboring a calm smile. "Destruction's handiwork, no doubt."

"Why are you here, brother?" Fate asked, while Ron just stood there with his mouth hanging open.

"I merely followed a dreamer here," Dream chuckled, his blue eyes glowing just as brightly as Fate's golden ones. "It matters not, beloved sister. All that matters is that you have done something terrible."

"Terrible?" Fate asked, her face completely indifferent.

"Poor boy…" Dream said softly, his expression became saddened as he looked at Ron's counterpart.

"His selfishness has put the balance in danger," Fate said coldly. "He will fix his mistake, and balance will be restored to this Realm."

"He dreamed of becoming something more than he was," Dream said, his voice filled with sadness. "I truly enjoyed his dreams."

"You can keep enjoying them," Fate said as she began to float into the air. "The Cycles will keep my Champion alive until his work is done. Time has helped me trap this Universe within a loop, one that will start once Destruction finishes his work."

"His dreams will never be the same," Dream sighed, and then he looked up to his ascending sister. "They deserve better than us."

"They are specks of sand within Time's Hourglass," Fate said, her body beginning to glow golden. "The balance must be preserved."

With that, Fate's body vanished in a bright golden light. Ron covered his eyes, he really had no idea what he had just witnessed. Once the golden light had dissipated, Ron looked around for Fate. She was gone, and Ron's sense of fear and awe left with her. He felt completely hollow now, and because of that, his eyes began to sting.

He was so confused, but at the same time, he understood what had just happened. His counterpart had abandoned his friends, which had resulted in Harry's death. Without Harry alive to fulfill the Prophecy made by Trelawney, the Dark Lord had emerged victorious. His Horcruxes made him immortal, which disrupted the balance of Creation. Death, in turn, decided to destroy this particular Universe, but Fate intervened for her brother's sake. Ron didn't know how he understood this, but he just did. All the clues that he had received over the last two years simply formed a picture in his mind.

As Ron stood on Stoatshead Hill, he felt his Universe crumbling out of existence. Life was coming to an end, and it was all his fault. He had abandoned his friends in the middle of a war for some comfort, and this was his punishment. The Cycles were his punishment, and only when he succeeded would he be redeemed. He couldn't describe the pain he felt right now. It was as if his soul was mourning its own weakness. It was as if it was ashamed to even exist.

"There is nothing here for you," Dream looked to Ron, who was silently sobbing to himself. "You are not just a speck of sand, Ron."

"I did… did this…" Ron hid his face in his hands, and then he fell to his knees. "I'm to blame… No one but me…"

"The Star of Madness has bled into your mind," Dream said, and then he walked up and cradled Ron's head into his small chest. Ron knew that he was speaking to a Being like Fate, but in this moment, he didn't care. He desperately clung to the boy, his shame and fear overwhelming him. "I am so sorry, Ron."

"Sorry?" Ron cried out.

"Your dreams were so beautiful once," Dream whispered, his small hands comforting Ron. "I am so sorry that we did this to you, and I am so sorry that they are seeing you suffer like this."

Ron tried to clutch onto Dream even harder, but the World fell apart beneath him. A terrified scream tore out of his throat as he fell into the darkness beneath him, his sense were bombarded with the sight and sound of Worlds colliding and Stars dying. The Universe had come undone.

---

Ron landed on his back, and the wind was knocked out of his lungs. His eyes ached because of the sudden Sunlight, while his lungs were suddenly filled with fresh air. He knew this smell. Home. Ron was emotionally exhausted, his mind had reached its limits. He felt as if a Dementor had devoured his soul, but he knew that that wasn't the case because he could still feel it mourning.

"Kill me…" Ron begged, his voice cracking. "I don't want this…"

"Fred! Give that back!" came his own voice, only it was high-pitched. Ron turned his head to his left, and he saw an eight year old version of himself chasing after Fred in the gardens. Ginny and Luna stood by watching, and Luna seemed to be holding Ginny back. Ron let out a weak sob at the sight of his new vision, he knew what was about to happen. Why aren't they in the Kitchen?

"Give it back to him!" Ginny screamed at Fred, while little Luna jumped with fright. "He's got a headache!"

"Little whiny baby Ronnikins," Fred laughed, his body easily dodging his frustrated attacker.

"I'm telling mum and Miss. Lovegood," Ginny warned. "It's his birthday, Fred! Stop being a prat!"

"Fine, fine…" Fred stopped dodging, and then he handed his little brother the icepack. "I was only trying to lighten his mood."

"You're not funny, Fred," his younger self hissed, and then his face contorted from pain.

His younger self dropped the icepack at that, and then he clutched his head and began to scream. The others all jerked into a panic, but Fred somehow managed to grab his little brother before he collapsed. A loud ringing sound filled Ron's ears, and he knew that only he and his child counterpart could hear it. And then, there was an explosion of Magic which sent the concerned siblings reeling back.

Ron let out a pained wail because of what had just happened. He knew that the little red-haired boy had been sentenced to a life just as miserable as his own. He knew that the Entity would abuse this boy for the rest of his remaining life. He knew that this boy was doomed to failure already. The first Cycle had begun.

"What happened?!" came his mother's shriek, and Ron heard footsteps emanating from the other direction. "Ginny?! Are you hurt?!"

"Mum… Ronnie did it…" Ginny looked to her approaching mother.

"Did what?" Pandora asked as she and Molly moved into Ron's view. Both women checked on their daughters, while Fred had moved back to his brother's side.

"Mum, he's hurt!" Fred called, and Molly Weasley was beside them in a second.

"Pandora! St. Mungo's!" Molly Weasley cried, and Ron saw Pandora run back to the house. "My baby! Ronnie! No, no, no, no! What happened?!"

As the children began to blurt out their explanations, Ron found himself staring at his younger self. He knew that he was still crying because his vision was blurry, but he couldn't hear himself. Images of a pale-blue redhead hanging from the rafters of his room flashed in Ron's mind, and he released another wet sob.

"Four hundred and sixty three," Ron coughed out, and his eyes shut tightly. "Four hundred and sixty four…"

---

Severus Snape's POV

Wednesday 4th November, 1993 (Dumbledore's Office - Near Midnight)

"How is he, Severus?" Albus asked as Snape stepped into the Office.

"Still out of commission," Snape replied, and then he shut the door. "Poppy has retired for the night, there is nothing more to be done. He will wake up when he wakes up."

"His Brain-Damage?" Albus asked, his expression was hardened.

"Same as before," Snape sat down in his empty chair, his eyes darting towards Ron's empty chair. I always sit on the left, while he sits on the right. "Poppy informed me that his seizure was a result of exhaustion, and that his Magical Core was rather drained. However, his brain was also inflamed. Poppy found that to be very strange."

"The Entity?" Dumbledore pinched the bridge of his crooked nose.

"Most likely," Snape said. I wonder if Ron is suffering at that monster's hands as we speak. The thought jarred him more than he expected, and Snape looked back to Ron's empty seat.

"Has Poppy informed his Family?" Albus asked.

"No, but the entire school has heard about his seizure," Snape replied. "His siblings have most likely informed his parents."

"Then we should expect them to barge into the castle tomorrow," Albus said.

"Good, you can ask them about their two eldest sons then," Snape said, and Albus blinked at him. "We have yet to hear from them, Albus."

"You…" Albus started, but then he adorned a calmer expression. "You are right, Severus. We should focus on what we can change, as opposed to obsessive over Ronald's predicament." I am not obsessing over anything. A sudden crack in the room pulled Snape out of his thoughts, and quirky House-Elf ran up to them.

"Headmaster, Ronald Weasley has woken up!" the House-Elf reported.

"Ah… Wonderful news, Mimsy," Albus said as both wizards stood up. "You can go back to the Kitchens now. Thank you for watching over him."

"Mimsy is happy to serve, Headmaster," Mimsy bowed, and then she disapparated. Snape and Albus quickly made their way out of the Office, and then they rushed to the Hospital Wing.

"It is fortunate that we will be the first faces that he sees," Albus said as they began walking down the Moving Staircase. "We can talk to him about what really happened."

"I'm not sure that I want to, Albus," Snape admitted. The less I know about the Entity, the better.

"He must be shown that he is not alone," Albus said firmly. "Don't speak if you don't want to, but don't leave his side."

"I understand," Snape said calmly, though he was beginning to dread what state Ron was going to be in. As they entered the Hospital Wing, Snape took the lead. Ron's bed was at the back of the Hospital Wing, and it was sealed away with thick white curtains. "In here, Albus." With that, Snape stepped through the curtains. He stopped at the sight of Ron, who was just staring ahead of himself with a blank look as he sat up against the head of his bed.

"Dear boy," Albus said, but Ron didn't even respond. His blotchy, tear soaked face was completely expressionless, and his glazed eyes weren't even moving. Albus moved past Snape and sat down by Ron's bed, his old hands taking Ron's scarred one.

"What happened to you, my boy?" Albus asked softly, his left palm traveling to Ron's forehead. Snape moved to the end of the bed, and he couldn't help but wonder if Ron could even see him. What did it do to him this time? Snape used his Occlumency to help himself regain his focus, he needed to stay on task.

"Ron, are you there?" Snape asked, and Ron suddenly blinked. His bloodshot eyes traveled to Snape, and then to Albus.

"Speak to us, Ronald," Albus said with a kind smile.

"First Cycle…" Ron croaked, and then he looked down at his own lap. "All my fault… I started the Cycles…" Does this mean what I think it does?

"You saw how your Cycles began?" Albus asked, while Snape moved a bit closer.

"I saw too much…" Ron whispered, fresh tears leaking out of his eyes.

"Show us," Albus said, and Snape couldn't help but detect a bit of intrigue in Albus' voice.

---

In the Pensieve

"This is unwise," Snape warned as they landed in the memory, his eyes quickly scanning the bright woods. Albus had extracted the memory from Ron's mind, with his consent, and both Snape and Albus had travelled back to the Headmaster's Office to view it. Ron had become unresponsive after giving them the memory, and after waiting for him to say anything at all, both wizards had taken their leave.

"I wish to see this, Severus," Albus responded, and then his gaze became fixed. "Ronald. There he is." Both wizards began to walk towards the redhead who was hugging a tree for stability, but a force stopped them from moving mid-step.

"You shouldn't be here," a young boy stepped out from behind a nearby tree, his neat appearance illuminated by the golden light. What is this?! This child… He can see us within a memory?! And not just see us… He even has control over us?! Who is he?! Snape's entire body was frozen, and he knew that Albus was in a similar situation. Panic began to sink in, and Snape tried to will himself to move. The young boy then looked to Ron, and a sad smile graced his face.

"You must wait to see this, just like the others," the boy told them, and Snape was genuinely lost. I don't understand…

---

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (Dumbledore's Office - Past Midnight)

Both wizards were hurled out of the Pensieve, and while Snape landed on a chair, Albus was sent reeling to the floor. They both just lay in their spots for a while, both men were completely jarred by what had just happened.

"Gods…" Albus broke the silence, and Snape began to stand up at the sound of his voice. "We just met one of them, Severus…"

"One of who?" Snape asked as he helped Albus up, his eyes scanning the old man's slightly awed expression.

"The Higher Beings…" Albus said, and Snape's blood turned to ice. No… "He saw us within a memory, Severus… He cast us out…"

"How?" Snape demanded, his confusion and uncertainty filled him with anger.

"He spoke of others… We weren't alone in that memory… Did you feel it?" Albus went on, his eyes turning a little manic. Snape shook the old wizard out of his thoughts, and Albus blinked at him.

"What just happened, Albus?" Snape asked, his heartbeat increasing. "Explain…"

"The golden light… The presence of a Higher Being… We must speak with Ronald," Albus said, and then he walked past Snape in a hurry. Snape followed after his Mentor, but he found himself slightly hesitant. Albus had a look about him that didn't sit well with Snape.

---

Thirty Minutes Later

Ron had told them of what the memory was supposed to show them. Snape couldn't believe what he was hearing, while Albus had listened to every word with complete focus. The first Cycle had begun because the original Ron had abandoned Granger and Potter, which had resulted in Potter's death by drowning. The Dark Lord had won the war as a result, and his immortality was set in stone.

That is until Fate interfered, and now Ron was trapped in an endless loop of suffering and hardship. The boy's story was difficult to grasp, but Snape knew that it was the truth. After all, 'Dream' had just spoken with them within someone else's memory. Snape could only imagine the power it would take to be completely omniscient, and the fact that he had met a Being that was omniscient frightened him. It made him feel so small. Like a speck of sand within Time's Hourglass.

"All my fault," Ron muttered, he looked utterly spent. "Honorless coward… A traitor… A fucking traitor…" A storm waged on outside, and after Ron stunned them with his bitter words about himself, Snape and Albus just sat in silence for a few minutes.

"Ronald, can you hear me?" Albus suddenly whispered, and then he looked to Snape. Give me minute, old man. Albus looked back to Ron, and then he took the boy's scarred hand in his own. "Dear boy, listen to my voice. Let go of your thoughts. You are longer within your vision. Don't keep traveling back to it."

"Albus, stop," Snape broke his silence, and Albus looked to him. "He's done for the night. Let him sleep."

"Do you have a vial of Sleeping Draught?" Albus asked, and Snape reached into his robes and pulled out a dark purple vial. He handed the Potion over to Albus, who carefully fed it to Ron.

"What was that?" Ron broke out of his stupor, his voice was slow and cracked.

"Something to help you rest, Ronald," Albus replied with a gentle voice, and then he eased Ron into his bed. Snape just stood by as Albus whispered comforting things to the drowsy boy, and as Ron finally closed his eyes, Snape turned to leave. "Severus-"

"I am retiring for the night," Snape said without looking back. "I need to think…" When did everything become so… large? And what did Dream mean by 'You must wait to see this, just like the others'. What others?

---

Daphne Greengrass' POV

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (Hospital Wing – Before Breakfast)

Daphne and her friends made their way into the Hospital Wing, and they stopped at the sight of the Gryffindors and Ravenclaw. Ron's siblings and the Golden Trio were speaking with Pomfrey, and from what Daphne could hear, they were arguing with the Matron.

"Great," Pansy frowned deeply. "We didn't get here before them." I see that Ginevra has finally seen sense.

"Then we should cut the line," Theo said, and then he led them towards the other visitors.

"Why can't we see him if he's awake?" one of the twins demanded.

"Madam Pomfrey, just a quick look," Percy added. "Please? We just want to see if he's fine."

"Is something wrong?" Theo asked the Matron, and the other visitors turned to see the Slytherins.

"Ronald is not up to seeing visitors," Madam Pomfrey told them all. "He has just been sedated, and company seems to agitate him. Come back when he's feeling better." Company agitates him? And why did she need to sedate him?

"If he's feeling lousy, then you should let us see him," the other twin argued. "We'll cheer him up." That's when it hit Daphne, she had seen this habit of Ron's before. He craves isolation whenever he's severely stressed, which leads to him feeling lonely and depressed. He inadvertently makes himself more upset.

"Let me see him," Daphne stepped forward, she would be damned if she didn't see what state her boyfriend was in. "Just me, and no one else." Madam Pomfrey blinked at that, while everyone else just stared at her.

"Fat chance, Greengrass," Ginny said haughtily.

"Oh, you're back now?" Tracey asked Ginny, who lost all of her defiance immediately. "What makes you think that you even deserve to see him after all the misery you've caused him?"

"Back off, Davis," Potter warned, while Granger pulled Ginny behind herself. Daphne decided to ignore the pointless chatter, and she walked up to Pomfrey.

"I've dealt with his breakdowns before," Daphne whispered, but the twins heard her.

"Breakdowns?!" the twins exclaimed, and all the chatter died. Shite! They were listening in! While everyone just stared at the twins' outburst, Daphne felt the urge to slap them both.

"He has breakdowns?" Granger asked, her mouth hanging open. Even Luna looked quite surprised for a change, while Daphne's friends looked genuinely annoyed with her.

"Be quiet," Daphne hissed at them all, much to Granger and Ginny's irritation. "He can hear you." Daphne then looked back to the Matron. "Please let me see him, I know how to get through to him when he's like this. He shouldn't be left alone."

"It's true," Blaise spoke up. "Daphne always helps him feel better."

"And he opens up to her," Tracey added, her eyes fixed on Ginny and Granger.

"Miss. Greengrass, I cannot-" Pomfrey started, but Daphne cut her off.

"Please? Just thirty seconds, and if he tells me to leave, I'll go," Daphne said, making sure to keep her voice strong and steady. Madam Pomfrey looked back to Ron's curtained bed, and then she gave Daphne a curt nod.

"Just thirty seconds," Madam Pomfrey said as she turned around and made her way to Ron's bed, and everyone followed after her. Are they seriously following me? "The rest of you will stay out here. Miss. Greengrass… Come with me." Daphne followed Madam Pomfrey past the curtains, while some of Ron's visitors muttered incoherently behind her.

"What did you give him?" Daphne couldn't help but ask when she saw Ron's bored expression. What is he staring at?

"A small dose of Calming Draught and Sleeping Draught," Madam Pomfrey replied. "He was spiraling towards a mental breakdown this morning, and in order to keep him in check, I had to sedate him." Merlin, Ron…

"Was his seizure at fault?" Daphne asked, her voice becoming weaker.

"Perhaps," Madam Pomfrey said uncertainly. "He hasn't spoken a word to me." My turn then. Daphne walked up beside Ron, and she quickly noticed that his right hand wasn't covered.

"Where is his glove?" Daphne whispered, and Madam Pomfrey gestured to the bedside table. Daphne carefully picked it up and put it on Ron's hand, which got his attention. "Hello, Ron."

"Hi," Ron croaked, his dull eyes fixed on hers. Daphne felt the urge to pull him into a hug, but she physically restrained herself from doing so. I can't be overbearing right now. Ron hates that.

"Your hand's covered," Daphne said as she took it into hers. "How are you?"

"Dulled," Ron said bluntly, his eyes lax and unblinking.

"Must be nice," Daphne smirked, and Ron shook his head. "It's not?"

"No," Ron replied in a whisper. "My head feels heavy."

"Want to rest it on my shoulder?" Daphne matched his voice, and Ron gave her a nod. Daphne slowly positioned herself by his side, and Ron leaned against her. Sweet Circe, he's really heavy.

"I'll send some breakfast here," Pomfrey said, her eyes fixed on the duo. "I'll also write you a note excusing you from your classes. Stay with him if you feel it necessary." I do feel it necessary.

"Thank you," Daphne said, and Pomfrey left without another word.

"Off to breakfast, all of you," came Pomfrey's voice from outside. "No arguing, let's go."

"Who came?" Ron asked in a slow voice.

"Me and the others, not Malfoy though," Daphne replied. "He said that you wouldn't miss his absence."

"Fair enough," Ron rested his head on her left shoulder. "You smell nice." Huh?

"Thanks," Daphne smiled a little. "Your siblings were here too, including Ginny."

"Only because I'm hurt," Ron said, and Daphne gave his gloved hand a squeeze.

"That just proves that she still cares," Daphne told him, and Ron shifted a little in his spot. Daphne herself may not have liked Ginevra Weasley much, but there was no denying that Ron held her in high regard.

"Who else?" Ron asked.

"The Golden Trio," Daphne replied truthfully.

"Harry and Hermione were here," Ron muttered, and she felt him tense a little. Odd.

"Does that bother you?" Daphne asked out of curiosity.

"No," Ron replied, and Daphne couldn't tell if he was lying. He sounds too monotone right now. "My Brain-Damage didn't get worse, Daphne. So please don't worry."

"I'm not worried, Ron," Daphne lied, she had barely kept herself in check since Herbology yesterday. One minute Ron had been smiling at her, and the next, his nose and ears were bleeding as he fell victim to a seizure. The whole school was abuzz with speculation, especially Slytherin.

"Are you sure?" Ron looked up. "What about the others?"

"I'm sure," Daphne smiled in a comforting manner. "You haven't worried us at all, I promise. Madam Pomfrey told us yesterday that you were really exhausted, and that your Magical Core was running empty. We all understood that you were going to be alright."

"Good… Good," Ron said as he closed his eyes. "Wake me up when breakfast comes, alright? I just need a nap."

"Okay, Ron," Daphne kissed the top of his head.

---

Thirty Minutes Later

"There's three pieces of bacon left," Ron said, his dull eyes fixed on the plate of bacon. An Elf named Mimsy had brought them breakfast, along with the Headmaster's well wishes. "I've had five, and you've had four. So only one of us gets to have two pieces of bacon, right?"

"Right…" Daphne said slowly, she had no idea what Ron was on about. "We can just tear one piece of bacon in half, Ron." Honestly, those mixed doses have done him in.

"Don't you want two?" Ron blinked at her, and she blinked back. "I've had five, you've had four… So if you have two, we'll be even."

"You want us both to have six?" Daphne asked, and Ron's entire body moved back and forth as he nodded. And then, it hit her. "Were you trying to be sweet, Ron?"

"No," Ron shook his head, a guilty smile forming on his face. His smile, although mischievous, made him look quite drunk. He's so adorable!

"Well, I think it's sweet that you want to share evenly with me," Daphne couldn't help but smile.

"Thanks, Daphne," Ron put his hands on his heart, his smile widening. He is definitely drunk. "And now that you think I'm sweet, can you reward me with an extra slice of bacon?"

"Wow, Ron," Daphne giggled, and he laughed like a baby. "Very Slytherin of you."

"I'm just joking," Ron shrugged, his body swaying side to side. "I want you to have it."

"Thanks," Daphne said as she took the bacon, a smug smirk on her face.

"No, thank you," Ron gave her a relaxed smile. "I'm really glad that you're here."

"Where else would I be?" Daphne smiled back.

"I feel really happy because of it," Ron hummed.

"I think the Potions are behind that," Daphne chuckled. "Try to not fall over the bed, Ron."

"Then I'll fall back on the bed," Ron said, and he lay back down.

"Not hungry?" Daphne asked, and Ron shook his head.

"It's making me feel nauseous," Ron replied, and Daphne moved the tray to the side table. "I reckon I'll sleep a bit more. Breakfast will be finished soon, and you can go to your classes." What? I'd rather stay here.

"I'd rather not leave you alone," Daphne said.

"It's Thursday, Daphne," Ron said as he closed his droopy eyes. "That means that D.A.D.A is on first thing in the morning. That's an important class… You have to go to it." Daphne went to argue that, but Theo burst in through the curtains. Both Ron and Daphne looked to him, while he approached them with a parcel in his hands.

"Hey, bud," Theo smiled at Ron, his voice far too tender. Ron sat up and eyed the weedy boy, while Theo just stood there with his smile intact.

"No need to be so polite," Ron gave Theo a tired smile. "I'm doing a lot better now. They gave me Potions."

"Right," Theo relaxed a little. "This came in for you at Breakfast. It's got the Gringotts Seal on it, so I figured that I'd bring this to you immediately."

"It's Thursday…" Ron said, he seemed to have made a realization of some sort. "Gornuk sent over the deal for Barnabas Cuffe." Deal? What deal?

"What deal?" Daphne asked.

"Actually, it's more like an agreement," Ron replied. "He won't go after me, and I won't go after him. Plus, it's a list of other things that we can and can't do. I had Gornuk write up some Magically Binding Contracts, and he's sent me the drafts. I'm supposed to look them over, and add anything else that I want."

"When are you meeting Cuffe?" Theo asked, and then he put the parcel on Ron's lap.

"Tomorrow," Ron replied, his dull eyes now fixed on the parcel. "I was supposed to go over this during lunch, and then go down to Gringotts during my free periods today. I guess I'd better get started."

"Nope," Daphne said as she swiped the parcel, and Ron just blinked at her. "These look important, Ron. You're in no state to work on something this important right now. You'll make a mistake, and then you'll regret it."

"Daph… I already set the dates," Ron said in response. "I have to do this. Gornuk needs to write up the actual contracts before tomorrow."

"Why don't you sleep until lunch, while I go to D.A.D.A," Daphne started. "I'll come back at lunch and wake you, and after you've eaten, we can go through them together. You need to be rested for this sort of work." I can't let him make a mistake on this, he'll be really upset if this backfires.

"You do look out of sorts, mate," Theo added, and Ron groaned.

"You'd better come back at lunch, Daph…" Ron said as he lay back down. "Once these Potions wear off, I need to work. I'll go insane otherwise." Right.

"Theo, give us a minute," Daphne said, and Theo waved goodbye to Ron as he left. "I'll take these with me, just to make sure that you don't do something silly. Alright?"

"Alright," Ron closed his eyes. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight," Daphne chuckled, and then she planted a kiss on his forehead. Is it weird that I want to snog him right now? Judging by his current state, I think that he'd really enjoy that.

---

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (Hospital Wing – Beginning of Lunch)

"There you are," Madam Pomfrey said when she saw Daphne and the others enter the Hospital Wing. "He's been waiting for you."

"He's awake?" Daphne asked, the parcel secure in her hands.

"He is," Madam Pomfrey replied, though she didn't sound very happy about it. "He was… a handful… when he woke up, and so I administered a Calming Draught to keep him in check."

"He had another episode?" Tracey asked, while Pansy's face just fell.

"Indeed," Pomfrey sighed.

"Did you give him another mixed dose?" Daphne asked.

"Just the Calming Draught," Madam Pomfrey frowned. "He refused to drink the Sleeping Draught, no matter what I said." So he's just on a Calming Draught?

"I'm going to lunch," Malfoy said, and then he turned around and left. Everyone watched him leave, and Daphne could see that her friends were now rethinking visiting Ron. She herself wanted to turn around and leave, mostly because Ron was no longer Ron.

"You guys can go," Daphne whispered, her eyes darting towards Ron's curtained bed. "I promised to bring him the parcel, you didn't." Malfoy suddenly walked back into the room, an annoyed look on his face.

"His siblings, and the Trio, are coming," Malfoy announced.

"Great…" Daphne sighed out, and then she made her way towards his bed. I'll get him started on his work before he gets annoyed with his Family. Daphne moved past the curtains, only to see Ron waiting for her on his bed.

"You brought the parcel," Ron stated, his face expressionless. "Bring it to me." Merlin, not again.

"Here," Daphne said as she handed it over, and Ron quickly opened it. A dozen pieces of parchment slipped onto his lap, and he carefully put them in a stack. "Lunch should be here soon."

"Are you staying?" Ron asked, his eyes scanning the top page.

"Do you want me to?" Daphne asked in return, and he looked up at her.

"We'd get more done together," Ron said coldly. "Take a seat." Daphne sat down on the side of his bed, and when he beckoned her closer, she moved right up to his thighs. Ron handed her half the documents, which she took as carefully as she could.

"So what do you need-" Daphne started, but she was cut off by the sound of Gryffindors arguing with Pomfrey.

"She's seeing him, so why can't we?" came Granger's voice, and Daphne immediately frowned. Maybe it's because he wants to see me, unlike you.

"It's just for a minute, Madam Pomfrey," Percy said. "We just want to make sure that he's up and about."

"Oh, go on, Madam Pomfrey," one of the twins said.

"Just one minute," the other twin added. Daphne looked to Ron, and she found him looking back at her.

"What is it?" Daphne whispered.

"They are saying one minute, but once they get in here, they're not going to leave," Ron replied, he felt no need to whisper. Ron then began to move off of the bed, and Daphne followed his lead. "I'll show them that I'm fine, and then we can get back to work."

"Is that smart?" Daphne whispered, her hands grabbing his left one. Ron stopped moving, and then he looked back to her. "Ron, you're on a Calming Draught. You can be… cruel… when you're under its influence. I don't want you getting into a fight with your Family, that's all."

"I'd regret it later," Ron nodded slowly, as if he had just figured that out.

"Exactly," Daphne smiled in a soothing manner. "Lie back down, Ron. I'll send them on their way."

"Make up some story if you need to," Ron said, and then he moved back to his bed. Great. Time to go fight with Ron's Family. Daphne drew in a sharp breath, and then she walked past the curtains and approached the Weasleys. Luna's here as well. Wait… Where are her shoes? Daphne looked Luna over, and much to her confusion, the blonde witch was walking around barefoot.

"Luna, why aren't you wearing shoes?" Daphne blurted out, and everyone looked to her. That's when Daphne realized that her friends had all left, no doubt because they didn't want to deal with the Gryffindors.

"I couldn't find them," Luna wiggled her toes, an absentminded smile on her face. So you start walking around barefoot?

"Luna, you'll catch a cold," Daphne told the younger blonde, who just shrugged in response.

"I'll get you something to put on," Madam Pomfrey clicked her tongue. "Honestly…" With that, she left to find some hospital slippers.

"Quick, let's go see him," one of the twins said, but Daphne quickly moved between them and Ron's bed.

"Can't let you do that," Daphne said apologetically. "He doesn't want to see anyone."

"He's seeing you," Granger pointed out, and Daphne gave her a deadpan look.

"I am always the exception when it comes to Ron," Daphne said, and Granger rolled her eyes. Just sod off, he doesn't want to see you. "He's not feeling like himself, and he wants to be left alone."

"What's wrong with him?" one of the twins asked. I wish I knew.

"I haven't asked him," Daphne replied truthfully.

"Then what are you even doing back there?" Ginny frowned deeply.

"Keeping him calm," Daphne replied.

"Calm, eh?" one of the twins sniggered, and everyone just frowned at them. "What?"

"Not the best place to crack jokes, you know," Longbottom replied, and then he looked back to Daphne. "He'll be fine though, right?"

"You will have your eternal friend back before the day is out," Daphne replied, and she couldn't help but notice that Potter suddenly looked vexed. Forgive me, Ron, but I can be petty sometimes.

"I guess that's all that matters in the end," Longbottom managed a weak smile, while Daphne made sure to keep her cold demeanor. I like Longbottom. I remember that he stood up for us when Potter tried to start a witch-hunt.

"This is his third seizure in three years," Potter suddenly spoke up. "One in first year, one in second year, and one now."

"And?" Daphne asked. If he doesn't leave Ron alone, I might hire someone to break his legs. Wait… What am I thinking?

"What's wrong with him?" Potter asked.

"What's wrong with you?" Daphne asked in return, and Potter blinked at her. "Ron's life is his own, and he doesn't owe you anything. Why don't you focus on your own life, Potter?"

"Why are you so rude?" Granger snapped, and Daphne cocked an eyebrow at her.

"I'm rude? Isn't it rude to spy on someone during a Funeral?" Daphne asked in response, and everyone looked to Potter.

"Funeral?" Longbottom asked slowly, his eyes fixed on his best friend. Longbottom doesn't know?

"I wasn't spying…" Potter started, but everyone just looked uncomfortable. Good. Go away please.

"I'm going to see him," Ginny broke the uncomfortable silence, but once again, Daphne got in the way. "Move out of the way-"

"I will slap you right across your face," Daphne said bluntly, and Ginny's mouth hung open. "Ron might put up with your disgusting, spoilt behavior, but I won't. I'll slap you right across your face."

"What is going on here?" came Pomfrey's voice, and everyone looked to see her approaching with white slippers in her hands.

"Greengrass is threatening to physically assault another student," Granger tattled, much to Daphne's boredom. Even the twins looked at Granger with a shade of annoyance, though they looked annoyed with Daphne as well.

"Enough is enough," Pomfrey frowned at them all. "This is my Hospital Wing, and I will not allow you all to disturb its peace. Out!" Pomfrey handed Luna the slippers, and then she pointed to the exit. "All of you out this instant!"

"And me?" Daphne asked, while the others quickly moved to leave.

"You may stay, but only because he wants you to," Madam Pomfrey said curtly, and then she followed after the Gryffindors and Luna. Daphne smirked to herself, and then she walked back to Ron's bed.

"You shouldn't threaten people," Ron said as she walked past the curtains.

"I know," Daphne said as she walked up to his side and sat down. "They can be such a headache to deal with, especially Granger and Ginevra."

"You just hate Hermione, while Ginny can be too forceful," Ron said, his cold eyes landing on her. "Leave the threats to me, Daphne. I don't want you getting into trouble on my behalf." That's almost sweet, but his coldness makes it sound like an order. "You can start on this half."

"What am I doing?" Daphne asked as she accepted the papers.

"Look for any statement that-" Ron started, but a woman's voice disrupted him.

"Where is he, Poppy?" came Molly Weasley's voice, and Ron closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath.

"More fucking disturbances," Ron whispered coldly, while Daphne let out a tired sigh.

"You can't just barge in here," came Madam Pomfrey's voice, which only seemed to irritate Ron. "All of you need to leave. I've told you that he's fine, and that he wishes to be left alone."

"We can't even say hello?" came Lord Black's voice, and Ron and Daphne exchanged looks.

"They're all here," Ron told her, and she nodded her agreement. "I bet they all got together to discuss my life before barging into the school like they fucking own the place."

"Ron, don't you dare start a fight with them," Daphne said firmly. "Just show them that you're fine, and let Madam Pomfrey handle the rest."

"Kid?" came Lord Black's voice, and then they all burst in through the curtains. Lord Black, Ron's parents, and the Lovegoods flooded the space around Ron's bed, their eyes scanning the pair of Slytherins. Daphne's own parents walked in with Madam Pomfrey, who was looking quite cross.

"Hello," Ron greeted them, his eyes traveling between his visitors.

"How are you feeling, love?" Molly Weasley asked, her voice sweet and soft.

"I feel fine," Ron replied. "My Brain-Damage has not worsened, so you have nothing to worry about. The seizure happened because I was exhausted, that's all. You can all leave now." For Merlin's sake, Ron!

"Leave?" Arthur blinked, and then he looked to the others.

"I have work…" Ron started, but then he stopped. His cold eyes suddenly became sharp, as if he were planning something. "Dad, you're really good at finding loopholes in contracts, right? I mean, you tricked the Ministry into letting you keep your Enchanted Ford Anglia."

"You did what?" Daphne's father asked, while Lord Black grinned at Arthur Weasley.

"I wouldn't say that I'm good at it, Ron…" Arthur said slowly, his eyes traveling to his frowning wife.

"You are," Ron simply stated. "You looked over my contract with Lord Greengrass as well."

"He was quite thorough," her father said, his eyes traveling between Ron and Daphne. Agh! It's not what it looks like, father!

"Since you're all here, you might as well help me," Ron said, a 'smile' forming on his face. "Daphne, Pandora, mum, Mary, and I will look through these contracts-"

"Ronnie-" Molly started, but Ron cut her off.

"Don't interrupt me while I speak," Ron said harshly, much to Molly's horror.

"What is he on?" Pandora Lovegood asked Madam Pomfrey.

"A Calming Draught," Madam Pomfrey replied, her eyes fixed on Ron. "He's not himself, so please, be on your way. As you can see, he is perfectly fine."

"I could use their help, Madam Pomfrey," Ron said. "They're already here, and I have a lot of work to get done."

"You ought to be resting, Ron," Mary said, and Daphne knew that her mother was now wary. She's seen him on a Calming Draught before.

"I've rested plenty," Ron shrugged. "I have work to do, and it's important that it gets done today. I will do it either way, but I'd appreciate it if you could all pitch in."

"What work?" Xenophilius asked, and then he looked to the contracts. "Is this something to do with The Quibbler?"

"Yes," Ron replied. "Barnabas Cuffe and I have a meeting tomorrow, and I plan to come to an agreement with him. These draft documents list conditions that we will both follow. I am to go over these today and hand them in with any changes to my Logistics Officer."

"Ron, slow down a moment," Arthur said, he looked quite concerned now. "You're still recovering from your seizure… Perhaps you should rest for the day." That'll never happen.

"You can either help, or you can leave," Ron said in a cold whisper. "Pick one."

"Daphne, dear…" Molly Weasley sighed out, her head shaking from disbelief. "Hand over those documents, please. Ronnie needs his rest. He doesn't know what's good for him." Oh, no. Why would she say that?!

"I will put you in one of these beds, mother," Ron warned, and everyone went dead silent. Daphne just gaped at her boyfriend, who was staring at his own mother as if she were nothing. "Get out. You are only getting in my way. As a matter of fact, why don't you all leave? You're all nothing but headaches anyway. Go on. Get out." Ron reached forward and took Daphne's half. "You as well." What?

"Ronald Weasley-" Molly Weasley puffed up, but Madam Pomfrey decided that enough was enough.

"You've seen him, now leave," Madam Pomfrey told the stunned adults. "He is not fit for company right now, and you're distressing him. Out." Madam Pomfrey then began to herd them all out, and one by one, they all found themselves outside the Hospital Wing. Daphne couldn't deny that she felt quite angry with the adults right now, she had everything under control until they showed up and started ordering Ron around.

"Did you hear him, Arthur?" Molly Weasley fumed, though her voice also showed her hurt. "He just threatened me! His own mother?!"

"That wasn't Ron," Daphne told them, and they all looked to her. "The Calming Draught makes him a horrible person, one that can't even understand normal social etiquette." Daphne then drew in a deep breath. "Why did you all have to show up like that? Why couldn't you just listen to Madam Pomfrey?"

"Daphne, tone," her father said, his icy gaze fixed on her. No. Daphne matched his gaze, much to his surprise.

"I had everything under control until you lot burst in," Daphne frowned at her father, and then she looked to Ron's mother. "And why would you impose on him like that? 'He doesn't know what's good for him'? Really? Was that a smart thing to say?"

"Daphne Greengrass, you will remember your manners," Mary ordered, but Daphne simply turned around and left for the Great Hall. Everything was going just fine until they showed up. All of my efforts wasted because the adults feel like they know what's best. Bloody fools.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (The Boys' Bathroom – During Afternoon Classes)

The cold shower had helped him regain his focus, but not as much as his Calming Draught, which had helped Ron realize what the true message of his vision was. The Entity wanted to show him that it was his own actions which had caused Fate to interfere with his life, and that it was his own weakness that had caused the Cycles. Ron knew now that pointing fingers was a useless action. He had landed himself in this mess, and only he could pull himself out.

As Ron put on his black suit, he found himself enamored with his own reflection. He, in another life, had abandoned his friends to their doom. The thought sickened him, but due to his current clarity, it also made him feel resolute. The actions of a previous Ron meant nothing to him. He didn't care about those Rons, or about their failures. The only Ron that mattered was him, and him alone. If he wasted his time mourning for their failures, then he was bound to repeat them. No, the only sensible thing to do was to keep moving forward.

Dream, Fate, Death, and the Entity… They were Beings of a cosmic scale, which meant that worrying about them was pointless as well. They could destroy entire Universes on a whim, and even if that frightened Ron, he could do little about it. Things were the way they were, and if he wanted to make a positive change, then he just needed to keep working harder and harder. He could do that. He could keep pushing himself to his limits. After all, he was quite used to it now.

"Are you sure that you'll be alright?" Millie asked as he stepped out of the bathroom.

"I'll be just fine, Mills," Ron said as he walked over to his briefcase, his face expressionless. I'll get these to Gornuk now that I've read them through. Ron picked up the briefcase, and then he looked to the occupants of the room. Millie looked concerned, Theo and Blaise were keeping their emotions at bay, and Malfoy looked quite wary.

"Are you sure that the Headmaster will allow you to leave?" Blaise asked.

"I'll convince him," Ron replied, and then he walked out of the room.

"Take care," he heard Millie call out, but he chose to ignore it. I'm going to Diagon Alley, not a warzone. As Ron made his way up to Dumbledore's Office, he began to wonder how the Headmaster was doing. He told me that Dream spoke to them in my memory, which is a really terrifying thing. How could Dream see me whilst Fate had no clue that I was even there? Does he exist everywhere? Even in Memories? Ron shook his head clear, he was only going to spiral if he kept thinking about this. It's way out of your league, Ron. Focus on your own life.

"Cauldron Cakes," Ron said to the Stone Gargoyle, and it moved out of his way. Ron made his way up the spiral staircase, and then he knocked on the door.

"Come in," came Dumbledore's voice, and Ron made his way inside.

"Good afternoon, Headmaster," Ron greeted out of politeness, and then he shut the door.

"Ronald? Poppy discharged you?" Dumbledore asked, and Ron knew that he was slightly surprised. He hides it well.

"I discharged myself," Ron told him as he stepped further into the Office. "I have work to do, and I can't do that work from the Hospital Wing."

"Work?" Dumbledore asked, he looked intrigued now.

"The Quibbler," Ron replied. "Barnabas Cuffe cannot be trusted, and I want to secure an agreement with him before I start looking for a staff."

"Ronald… After what you saw yesterday…" Dumbledore said slowly, his eyes showing his concern.

"Here's some advice, Headmaster," Ron said coldly. "Don't think about that shite. Dream, Fate, Death… Those Beings are so far out of our understanding that it's not even funny. Thinking about them will achieve nothing. So do what I do. Take all of that tripe, put it in a box, and then hide the box away. Once that's done, get to work on securing the Future. Understood?"

"That sounds very healthy, Ronald," Dumbledore said, and Ron simply shrugged.

"Being healthy is for people who don't have to deal with this sort of shite," Ron said. "You, Professor Snape, and I don't get to be healthy, we have too much work to get done. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to meet a Goblin."

"Your mother and father were just here," Dumbledore said as Ron turned to leave.

"And?" Ron asked without turning around.

"Did you threaten your mother?" Dumbledore asked, though Ron knew that he already had his answer.

"She overstepped with me," Ron replied. "She interrupted me, spoke of me as if I'm a toddler, and she gave no respect to the urgency of my work. She, like always, tried to control me by belittling me. Do I look like I'm in the mood for such behavior?"

"She was quite upset, Ronald," Dumbledore said, his voice anything but judgmental.

"She has upset me a lot more over the years," Ron said. "She'll get over it, just like I have."

"You don't sound like you have," Dumbledore countered, and Ron turned to face him.

"What do you want of me?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore relaxed in his chair.

"I am only worried for you, my boy," Dumbledore replied. "You were utterly lost in grief yesterday, and now, you're entirely detached from reality."

"I got over it," Ron replied with a deadpan look. "The Ron who abandoned his friends was weak, whereas I am not. His actions mean nothing to me, and thinking about his death is utterly pointless. Now… I'm sure that the Entity has some ulterior motives for showing me the Beginning of the Cycles, but you know what, I'm better off without its schemes. I know my mission, and that's all that matters."

With that, Ron walked over to the fireplace, but he didn't floo away. Not yet.

"I wish to discuss Order business once I return," Ron looked back to Dumbledore. "With you and Professor Snape, that is. Will you both be free?"

"We will be," Dumbledore said, he almost looked crestfallen. Ron grabbed a pinch of floo powder, and he cast it into the fire.

"The Leaky Cauldron," Ron called, and when the fire blazed green, Ron stepped through it.

---

Thirty Minutes Later

"I must say, Mr. Weasley," Gornuk started. "I did not expect you to read through these documents on the very same day they arrived."

"I told you that I would do it, and my word is my bond," Ron replied, his eyes examining the tiny office. "Why have they given such a great employee such a small office, Gornuk?" The Goblin looked pleased with Ron's words, but also bitter about Gringotts' dismissal of him.

"Ambition is frowned upon in our society," Gornuk all but spat out. "I do not have the 'Pedigree' to reach beyond my station."

"Pedigree?" Ron cocked an eyebrow. "Could it be that just like us wizards, you Goblins have your own 'Purity' issues?"

"Not Blood Purity, Mr. Weasley, we have Family Ties holding us down," Gornuk clarified. "The older Families are considered nobility, while the rest of us are treated as dispensable garbage. If a Goblin from the 'right' Family wants a job, Gringotts simply hands them an employment check."

"And if you're not from the 'right' Family?" Ron asked out of curiosity.

"Then you're nothing," Gornuk said bitterly, his beady eyes gleaming with contempt. "You have to work for years and years to get this tiny office, while your 'inferiors' are showered with luxury. I learned a long time ago that if I wanted to get ahead, then I needed to forge my own path."

"Then we have that in common," Ron told the Goblin. "Fuck letting other people dictate what your life ought to be."

"Here, here," Gornuk nodded approvingly, and Ron stood up to leave.

"I've added only one more condition to the drafts," Ron said. "No employee can work at our companies at the same time, and if they are let go, then they must wait six months before applying to the other company."

"Scared of spies, Mr. Weasley?" Gornuk asked, a sharp-toothed smile on his face.

"I don't trust this man," Ron replied without taking offence. "Oh, and Gornuk… Once we've hired a building to act as our headquarters, I'll make sure to get you a proper office."

"I plan to keep working for Gringotts as well," Gornuk reminded Ron.

"I know, but your office will await you always," Ron 'smiled' at the confused Goblin. "I understand, and cherish, your value, my friend." With that, Ron turned around and left the pleased Goblin. I have to keep him pleased, he knows too much about my business. If Cuffe ever approaches him, then I don't want his loyalty coming into question.

As Ron made his way down Diagon Alley, he was stopped by a pleasant aroma. The Pond. Ron's stomach grumbled at that, and he realized that he hadn't eaten lunch today. Hmm. It's certainly tempting. Fuck it. I'll spoil myself a little. Ron walked into The Pond, where he was greeted by a familiar waiter. I know him, he's greeted me at the door every time I've been here. What did Snape say his name was?

"Mr. Weasley," the waiter greeted him. "Taking the day off from school, are we?"

"I got lost," Ron smirked, which earned him a chuckle from the dark skinned man. "Forgive me, but I can't recall your name."

"Rudolph, Sir," Rudolph introduced himself. "And there is nothing to forgive."

"Well, I'll make sure to remember your name from now on," Ron promised. "Could I grab a table for one?"

"Certainly," Rudolph bowed his head a little, and then he gestured Ron to follow him. Ron walked behind the taller man, his eyes taking in the prestigious décor. Never did I imagine eating alone in such a place. I've come so far, but I still need to keep going. "Here you are."

"Thank you," Ron 'smiled' as he took a seat, while Rudolph handed him a menu. "Any recommendations?"

"You must try the Honey Glazed Lamb," Rudolph smiled politely. "We have a new chef, and cooking lamb is her specialty."

"Then that's what I'll have, and a glass of sweetened water," Ron ordered, and Rudolph took the menu back.

"A waitress will bring you the water immediately, Mr. Weasley," Rudolph said.

"Please, call me Ron," Ron matched his polite tone. "I'll be dining here as often as I can."

"A wise choice, Ron," Rudolph chuckled humorously. "Enjoy your meal."

"Thank you," Ron said, and Rudolph left to give in Ron's order. Now, what else can I do today? The Quibbler business is handled, I've done my homework except for the classes that I missed, and the first years are doing quite well. What else can I do? Oh… That's right. The Order business.

Ron had been thinking about the Dark Lord's captured Death Eaters, and a thought had occurred to him. Why were they still alive? The Headmaster, Snape, and Ron all knew that the Dark Lord planned to free his followers, and yet, they hadn't done anything about it. All of them were currently in one place, and they were utterly defenseless. If we get rid of them now, then we won't have to worry about them in the Future.

"Here is your sweetened water, Sir," a young waitress said as she planted the glass in front of him.

"Thank you," Ron smiled at the waitress, and much to his confusion, she lingered in her spot.

"You're Ronald Weasley," she finally said, and Ron gave her a nod. A fan? "My name is Tiffany Wiltshire, I used to attend Hogwarts just last year."

"I'm sorry, I don't remember you," Ron admitted.

"That's alright, I never really approached the Slytherins," Tiffany told him. "I'm a Hufflepuff, you see. And Muggle-Born." Right. "But my sister Beth is in Hogwarts now, and just like me, she's a Hufflepuff."

"Little Beth is your sister?" Ron gave her a faint smile, and she nodded. I can see the resemblance now. Blonde hair, shorter than average, green eyes.

"She was really scared of going to Hogwarts alone," Tiffany said. "She's always had trouble making friends. But she seems to be doing really well at Hogwarts, and if her letters are anything to go by, then you've been a big part of that." I have?

"She's mentioned me?" Ron asked, making sure to sound polite and interested.

"Almost in every letter," Tiffany laughed. "She's really grateful for your study group, it's helped her immensely. She's told me that you tutor all the first years yourself."

"It helps them make friends with people in other Houses," Ron said, and Tiffany smiled widely. "And I'm quite fond of Beth. She's one of the more vocal first years."

"Trust me, that's only because she wants your attention," Tiffany giggled, and then she quickly composed herself. "Thank you for helping my sister, I was genuinely worried for her when she got her letter."

"I'm happy to help," Ron smiled, and Tiffany gave him a warm smile.

"That's on the house," Tiffany said, her eyes darting to the glass of sweetened water. "It's the least that I can do."

"Thank you," Ron lifted the glass, and she left with a happy smile on her face. Beth's sister, eh? I have my study group tomorrow. Maybe I should tell Beth that her sister loves her. That ought to make her happier. Ron took a sip from his water, and its cold sweetness made him smile in content. Just one step at a time, that's how I'll win. That's how I'll save as many people as I can. People like little Beth.

"Excuse me, Ron," came Rudolph's voice, and Ron turned to see the man standing right behind him. "Another patron would like your company for lunch."

"Who?" Ron asked, his eyes scanning the room.

"Madam Amelia Bones, the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement," Rudolph replied, and Ron was quite surprised.

"She's here?" Ron asked.

"She is downstairs, which is reserved for our oldest patrons," Rudolph replied. "Would you like to join her?"

"I can't really refuse a witch of her standing, can I?" Ron asked as he stood up.

"No, you certainly cannot," Rudolph stepped back. "Follow me, please." Ron followed after Rudolph, all the while wondering what Amelia Bones wanted from him. Why is she even here? Doesn't she have work? As Ron was led downstairs, he noticed that the décor changed quite dramatically.

"Welcome to the Bottom of The Pond," Rudolph said, while Ron observed the darker, and much more gothic, interior design. "Madam Bones awaits you."

"Thank you, Rudolph," Ron said, and then he walked over to her table. She was sitting in the corner, her stern gaze fixed on him. "Good afternoon, Madam Bones."

"Good afternoon, Mr. Weasley," Madam Bones said, her demeanor similar to that of a judge. "Please, take a seat."

"Thank you," Ron sat down in front of her, his glass of sweetened water near his lips. "How did you know that I was here? I didn't see you come in."

"A waitress squealed 'Is Ronald Weasley really here?'," Madam Roberts replied. Tiffany. "A fan?"

"Her sister is in my study group," Ron replied, and Madam Bones nodded once. "Did you like the photo?"

"I found it amusing," Madam Bones replied, her grey eyes fixed on his. "An inclusive study group led by a Slytherin, who also happens to be a Blood Traitor. Fascinating."

"Aren't I?" Ron smirked, he was too calm to take offence from such a comment.

"A bit too fascination, Mr. Weasley," Madam Bones told him. "I keep hearing your name everywhere. One of my Hit-Wizards is teaching you, one of my Aurors is a huge fan of yours, your Quibbler brochures have flooded my Office and home, and now I find you here in the middle of a school day. Oh, and my Head Auror claims that you were near the scene of a murder."

"I was in Diagon Alley," Ron said calmly. "Not near where your informant was killed."

"I never mentioned an informant," Madam Bones said, her stare intensifying.

"Why else would you lock down an entire district?" Ron asked. I'm too calm, I need to be careful. "Let me guess, you suspected a leak, and your Head Auror thinks that a thirteen year old boy was involved. Solid detective work."

"You have a sharp tongue," Madam Bones said. "I like that. You are not a suspect, Mr. Weasley, your name was merely brought up. Tell me, where is your supervision?"

"I don't have any," Ron replied, and Madam Bones blinked at him.

"Kingsley was right then, you have the Headmaster's permission to go about as you please," Madam Bones said, and Ron gave her a nod.

"Did he really owl the Headmaster?" Ron asked.

"He did indeed," Madam Bones replied. "How did you convince the Headmaster of Hogwarts to let you break the rules?"

"I simply asked, and he said yes based on my stellar record," Ron replied. "That, and he trusts me completely."

"Is that so?" Madam Bones asked.

"I'm a trustworthy person," Ron 'smiled' at her. "Might I ask a question now?"

"Certainly," Madam Bones said as she fixed her monocle.

"Why are you here, Madam Bones? Don't you have work?" Ron asked.

"I do have work, but my Head Auror banished me from the Offices," Madam Bones frowned slightly.

"Two orders of Honey Glazed Lamb," Tiffany said as she approached them, and then she placed the plates in front of them. Ron eyed the thinly sliced lamb cuts on a bed of mashed potatoes with genuine excitement, the food smelled delicious. "Please enjoy." Once Tiffany was gone, Ron looked to Madam Bones.

"We ordered the same special," Ron said to Madam Bones, and she gave him a nod. "Isn't that peculiar?"

"They have a new chef, and I wish to see her skill for myself," Madam Bones replied. "Merely a coincident, nothing more." They both began their meals at that, and Ron had to admit, this chef was really skilled. "She is better than the last chef."

"You mentioned that your Head Auror banished you from the Offices," Ron restarted their conversation.

"He believes that I need to take a break," Madam Bones replied. "Despite how much work needs to get done."

"Don't you hate that?" Ron asked, and Madam Bones cocked an eyebrow.

"Hate what?" she asked.

"When people don't understand that until your work is finished, you can't enjoy anything," Ron clarified. "Time just doesn't move right when there is work to be done."

"I see that we share a similar attitude," Madam Bones gave a light smile, much to Ron's delight.

"Might I inquire about your work?" Ron asked, and she studied him for a few moments. What?

"I suppose I can mention this to you," Madam Bones started, and Ron listened intently. "There is a plan in place for the restoration of St. Mungo's, and it involves your Family." Huh? "The Ministry will be asking the Sacred Twenty-Eight Families for donations of up to five hundred Galleons."

"Just the Sacred Twenty-Eight Families?" Ron asked. "I'm sure you know that some of those Families have died out, such as the Gaunts." Tom Riddle Junior's Family. The Dark Lord's Family.

"Anyone can donate, of course," Madam Bones told him. "But the Old Families are the richest, and if we throw them a gala, they'll pay up."

"Can't say that my Family is rich," Ron smirked at her. "Well, I'm doing quite well financially… But my Family isn't. They refuse to accept my money."

"Your father is a proud man," Madam Bones responded.

"Proud, but unwise," Ron said a bit too coldly, and Madam Bones picked up on that. "Five hundred Galleons you say… I'd be willing to donate that much on behalf of the Weasley Family." Sorry, Daphne, but you'll need to wait a little longer now. I have to secure alliances with people like Madam Bones.

"Really?" Madam Bones asked, an amused half-smile on her face.

"We are part of the Sacred Twenty-Eight, aren't we?" Ron asked in return. "We will do our part." I will do our part.

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley," Madam Bones said. "But shouldn't I speak to the Head of your Family instead of you?"

"Do you think my father has five hundred Galleons to spare?" Ron asked in return.

"A fair point," Madam Bones smirked. "My old friend, Augusta Longbottom, told me to owl you directly for this donation business, and now I can see why."

"I really do come up quite often, don't I?" Ron couldn't help but chuckle. "I'm sorry that you are plagued by my constant presence."

"She speaks highly of you," Madam Bones went on. "She believes that you have a proper head on your shoulders, unlike her Grandson and his friends." Harry and Hermione? Harry maybe, but Hermione's a hard worker. Though she is quite judgmental of people who are not like her.

"Lady Longbottom has been a true friend to me," Ron smiled. "If it wasn't for her, my Quibbler business wouldn't even exist. Speaking of which, why don't I advertise this donation plan to the public for you. One letter from me, and my brochures will make sure to emphasize the importance of donating to St. Mungo's restoration. The more people that know about it, the better."

"Forgive me for asking, but what is the price of this offer?" Madam Bones asked.

"An invite to the gala would suffice," Ron replied. "For me and my girlfriend, that is." It can be a date night. I think she'll like the sound of that.

"You'd already be invited due to your donation," Madam Bones told him.

"Then an acknowledgement to my generosity will have to do," Ron said, and Madam Bones seemed to be studying him again.

"You don't want money?" Madam Bones asked.

"Money for helping a good cause?" Ron blinked, now he was a little confused. "Wouldn't that be counterproductive on your end?"

"So just an acknowledgement at the gala?" Madam Bones asked, and Ron gave her a nod. "Very well, Mr. Weasley. We have a deal then." Really? Well, look at me. I'm getting shite done. "The plan is to be announced on Monday, and letters will be sent out to the Old Families at the end of the day."

"I'll send an Owl to my advertisement firm when I get back to Hogwarts," Ron told her. "They'll be in touch with you about the details over the weekend."

"Excellent," Madam Bones nodded firmly. "That's one less thing on my plate. Thank you, Mr. Weasley."

"I'm happy to help, Madam Bones," Ron smiled at her. "And please, just call me by my given name."

---

Twenty Minutes Later

"Until we meet again, Ronald," Madam Bones said, and Ron gave her a parting nod. She left in the direction of Gringotts, while Ron began to make his way back to The Leaky Cauldron. He was rather pleased with himself right now, he had seen an opportunity, and like any decent Slytherin, seized it immediately. Now I have a reason to propose an alliance to her when the time comes. Once Ron found himself before a fireplace, he flooed straight to the Headmaster's Office.

"Welcome back, Ronald," Dumbledore greeted just as Ron stepped into the Office. Ron looked over to him, and he saw that the Headmaster was alone.

"Where is Professor Snape, Headmaster?" Ron asked as he walked to his usual seat.

"Classes are just about to end, so he'll be here shortly," Dumbledore replied, his eyes scanning Ron's blank face.

"Why is everyone staring at me today?" Ron asked. "Is it the suit?"

"It is alarming to speak to a person who sees you as prey," Dumbledore replied, and Ron blinked at him. "It's your eyes, my boy. The Calming Draught gives you a very dark look about you."

"It'll wear off in a few hours," Ron told Dumbledore.

"And then what?" Dumbledore asked as he leaned back in his chair.

"Then… Nothing," Ron replied. "I will go back to living my life, and I suggest that you do the same. Thinking about the 'bigger picture' is just pointless. We'll never understand their games."

"I'm afraid you're right, Ronald," Dumbledore sighed, and then he gave Ron a kind smile. "I am becoming far too intrigued by these Higher Beings. To think that they actually exist… It's a marvelous thing to wonder about."

"They don't care about us," Ron said a little bitterly. "We're just toys to them." Specks of sand in Time's Hourglass. Fucking bitch.

"What took you so long?" Dumbledore asked him. "You were gone for a while."

"I ran into Madam Bones," Ron replied, and Dumbledore waited for him to go on. "We had lunch, and then I promised her that I'd advertise her plans to restore St. Mungo's. She, in turn, agreed to send me the Donation Letter meant for the Weasley Family."

"She'll send it to you? Not your father?" Dumbledore asked, his eyes were beginning to twinkle.

"My father can't do anything with that letter," Ron shrugged. "So yeah, she'll send it to me."

"I see that you're still making allies," Dumbledore chuckled.

"If she's going to be the Future Minister, then I want her on my side," Ron said bluntly. "Which reminds me… Have you spoken to her yet?"

"I have not," Dumbledore replied.

"May I ask why?" Ron asked, his eyes fixed on Dumbledore. I'm doing it again, aren't I? Ron fixed his expression, much to Dumbledore's amusement.

"Talk of a coup is not a good idea at the moment," Dumbledore replied. "The Ministry is suffering, my boy. Their coffers are drained, their Aurors are constantly away, and right now, people are reeling from their losses. Once the people turn angry, then we'll strike."

"You want the people turning on Fudge before you act?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore gave him a nod.

"I have nothing against Cornelius, but he cannot withstand Lord Voldemort's will," Dumbledore said. "And Amelia will not abandon her post until she sees a clear need for it."

"I'll leave it to you then," Ron said. "Also, is she a member of the Order?"

"She is not," Dumbledore replied. "I did ask her once, and even though she respected the Order greatly, she chose to stay with the Ministry."

"That's fair, but what if the Ministry and the Order worked in unison?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore leaned forward. "At the end of the day, both parties will have the same goal. The destruction of the Dark Lord. We are natural allies, so why not make it official eventually?"

"Once she is the Minister, we will see to that," Dumbledore replied. "Until then, we must find other allies."

"I have a few in mind," Ron started. "Madame Olympe Maxime, Madam Jane Roberts, Rufus Scrimgeour, some of the graduating students of this year…"

"Like who?" Dumbledore asked.

"My brother Percy," Ron replied. "He respects authority above all else, and who demands more respect than Albus Dumbledore."

"You want to keep your eyes on him," Dumbledore figured.

"I can't just have my Blood running around without protection, now, can I?" Ron stated. "I have three more students in mind. Clara Martyris, Samantha Selwyn, and Carey Ductu."

"The Selwyns are known Death Eaters, my boy," Dumbledore told him.

"Does their daughter bare the Dark Mark?" Ron asked. "No, she doesn't. Her friends are Half-Bloods, and she's told me personally that she cares very little for Blood-Supremacy. And I believe her. These girls are sharp, Headmaster. We need sharp people on our side." Sharp, and young. There's too many old people in the Order.

"We can discuss them when Severus gets here," Dumbledore said, and then he pulled out his Chessboard. "Want to play a game?"

"Sure."

---

Ten Minutes Later

"Come in," Dumbledore called, and Snape entered the room. His eyes landed on the back of Ron's head, and he quickly shut the door.

"Shouldn't you be in the Hospital Wing?" Snape asked as he walked up to his chair.

"I got tired of sitting around," Ron replied, his eyes fixed on the board. "How were your classes, Professor Snape?"

"Same as usual," Snape replied slowly, his eyes scanning the side of Ron's face.

"Did you make any children cry today?" Ron shot him a smirk, and Snape frowned at him. "Wait… What am I saying? Of course you did."

"What is this meeting about?" Snape asked, deciding to ignore Ron.

"We aren't doing enough," Ron replied for the Headmaster, and Snape looked back to him. "The Dark Lord is out there, doing Merlin knows what, and we're just sitting around. And no, I don't care about 'The Wait'. I want to keep making moves."

"Moves?" Dumbledore asked.

"Azkaban," Ron looked to the Headmaster. "How many Death Eaters are just waiting for their Lord to come and rescue them?"

"You want us to assassinate the Death Eaters in captivity?" Snape asked, and Ron nodded. "It would be a wise move, but it's impossible."

"Why?" Ron asked.

"The only thing more difficult than escaping from Azkaban is breaking into Azkaban," Snape replied. "They have hundreds of Charms around the Island Prison, all of which will alert the Aurors immediately. Not to mention that you can only get onto the Island via Ministry provided Portkeys, which are all under heavy security at all times. And then there are the Dementors… No sane assassin will go into the building for fear of them."

"Damn, so we really can't do anything about them?" Ron asked. "What about the Dark Lord? He plans to break them out."

"Unlike him, we can't afford to break so many laws and just get away with it," Dumbledore replied. "He plans to go to war with the Ministry, and if we try to break into Azkaban, then we'll be fighting the Ministry as well." Damn, the Ministry is inadvertently protecting its Future enemies.

"I have something to put forward," Snape spoke up, and both Ron and Dumbledore looked to him. "Ron's visions have shown us that at some point in the Future, the Ministry has the potential to fall. If that were to happen, and Muggle-Borns start getting hunted down, we should turn Hogwarts into a bastion."

"A bastion, Severus?" Dumbledore asked, while Ron nodded his approval.

"Hogwarts is a fortress unlike any other," Snape started. "It is almost as well protected as Azkaban, but it is significantly larger. We have entire Wings that are not being utilized. We have a staff of House Elves who would happily feed and protect those who have nowhere to go, and they in turn could help the Order."

"An army, you mean," Ron said, and Snape gave a curt nod. I like this idea. Muggle-Borns, and anyone else running from the war, would be safe here.

"What about the students?" Dumbledore asked.

"At that point, more people will benefit from shelter than education," Snape replied. "If things become sour, then we should turn Hogwarts into the Order's Headquarters. Ron can use The Quibbler to spread the word about Hogwarts being a safe haven for all. We could save a lot of lives, Albus."

"Ronald?" Dumbledore looked to Ron.

"I like this plan," Ron replied. "It's very practical, and it can be achieved quite easily."

"Then let's put a pin in it," Dumbledore said. "Now, let's discuss Order members."

"I proposed a few before you came in," Ron told Snape. "Madame Maxime, Madam Roberts, Rufus Scrimgeour, Clara Martyris, Carey Ductu, Samantha Selwyn, and my brother Percy." Snape nodded slowly as he leaned back in his chair, his mind clearly at work.

"Madam Roberts and Rufus Scrimgeour will never join the Order," Dumbledore told Ron, who waited for an explanation. "I asked them during the last war, and they refused me outright. They both respect the Ministry too much to join a 'Rebel Organization'. They believe that without the Ministry being on the frontline, people are more inclined to panic and hysteria. To them, only the Ministry has the right to deal with threats like Lord Voldemort."

"Great…" Ron rolled his eyes. "What about my other suggestions?"

"Madame Maxime is perfect," Dumbledore replied, and Ron was glad to hear that. "She was very outspoken during the last war, and even supplied the Order with aid from the shadows. She also happens to be a good friend of mine. How would you like to go to France again, Ronald?"

"If it helps the Order, I'll go right now," Ron replied, and Dumbledore chuckled heartily.

"Next Thursday, during your free periods, come to my Office," Dumbledore instructed. "Fawkes will take you to the Heart of Beauxbatons, which is bound to impress many young Ladies. You can also further your alliance with Madame Maxime, whilst also delivering a letter from me."

"And you look respectful by sending your favorite pupil," Ron smirked.

"Are you my favorite, Ronald?" Dumbledore chuckled.

"I better be," Ron joked. "One thing though… She'll question why I, of all people,am delivering a message regarding Order business."

"She will, but she will not speak a word of it," Dumbledore told Ron. "She respects you, Ronald, and she'll need to be convinced of the Dark Lord's return." Dumbledore stopped and took in a deep breath at that. "She also happens to know that we were hiding the Philosopher's Stone at Hogwarts. After all, she is friends with Nicolas Flamel."

"Wait… You want me to show her my scars as proof?" Ron asked, and Dumbledore gave a grave nod. Are you serious?

"She is an intelligent witch, and she will not hand over her allegiance without proof," Dumbledore sighed. "Forgive me, my boy… But you might be required to make this sacrifice."

"So your word isn't enough," Ron bit out.

"I'm afraid not," Dumbledore replied. "War is a terrifying thing, and before she agrees to join it, she will demand proof."

"Fuck," Ron muttered under his breath. "Whatever… I'll make sure that she keeps everything to herself."

"Clara, Carey, and Samantha are good choices," Snape suddenly piped in. "The three girls are extremely clever, and they will no doubt stand against the Dark Lord when the time comes."

"Even the Selwyn girl?" Dumbledore asked.

"She despises her parents," Snape replied, and Ron nodded his agreement. "Whereas Carey Ductu's father is a Muggle, and Clara Martyris' mother is a Muggle-Born. When the time comes, they'll need help."

"Plus, we could use some younger blood in the Order," Ron said, and Dumbledore blinked at him. "Too many old people, Headmaster. All of them living in the last century… All of them useless when it comes to making morally debatable choices. We need some… greyer… people in the Order. People who won't shy away from dirty work."

"So more people like us?" Snape asked, and Ron gave him a nod.

"We're just three people," Ron said calmly. "And sure, we're manipulating events on a continental scale. But we are also quite detached from the foot soldiers. People like Clara, Carey, and Samantha can help us with the things that normal Order members would refuse. Things like rallying the Slytherins, or even helping us implement our plans."

"The Order could certainly use more Slytherins," Snape told Dumbledore. "These three girls could be the start of that."

"I will speak with them then," Dumbledore conceded. "When the time is right, that is." Great.

"And Percy?" Ron asked.

"I will speak with him before he graduates," Dumbledore replied.

"Thank you," Ron 'smiled'.

"Speaking of your siblings," Snape started. "Your brothers William and Charles have agreed to join the Order."

"That's good," Ron nodded. "You'll keep them away from danger, won't you?"

"Do we get a choice?" Dumbledore asked.

"No, you don't," Ron replied. "My help comes at a cost." Dumbledore and Snape gave understanding nods, and Ron was glad that they weren't arguing this point anymore.

"William has asked for a transfer to Gringotts," Dumbledore told Ron. "He will be working in England by the end of the month according to your parents." Really? That's neat. I haven't seen him in over two years.

"I'll probably see him at his work then," Ron nodded to himself. "Very nice."

"Do we have anything else to discuss?" Dumbledore asked.

"Has Greyback been found yet?" Snape asked.

"No," Dumbledore replied. "Sebastian's hired private army is searching for him, but he's gone underground."

"What about Malfoy and Nott Snr?" Ron asked. "Do we know what they're up to?"

"I have been invited to a dinner at Lucius' home on Sunday night," Snape replied. "He no doubt wishes to discuss the Dark Lord's return."

"Do be careful, Severus," Dumbledore smiled a little sadly.

"I will be fine," Snape said dismissively.

---

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (The Black Lake – Evening)

Ron practiced his Occlumency as he sat on the lonely shore of the Black Lake, his already calm mind felt even more relaxed because of the atmosphere. The air was a little cold, and the breeze had a way of keeping you awake, but Ron loved it. Right now, he was beginning to close in on his 'happy place'. Ron found that if he just focused on feeling the tranquility of his dreams, he could somewhat shut out the outside World.

"Ron?" came Daphne's voice, and then Ron was shaken out of his meditation. Damn, I was so close. Ron looked to his left, and he spotted Daphne standing over him. "What are you doing out here?"

"I was meditating," Ron replied. "Working on my Occlumency."

"Oh… Did I disturb you?" Daphne asked. You know you did.

"It's alright," Ron tried to give a genuine smile. "Sit with me." Daphne slowly sat down by his side, her eyes fixed on his face.

"You're still feeling the Calming Draught," Daphne noted.

"I took it around five hours ago, Daphne," Ron said. "It takes time to wear off."

"Right…" Daphne said, her demeanor becoming cold. "Should I leave you alone then? I'd rather not give you a headache." Ron just looked to her, and he found her staring at him.

"I'm sorry for my outburst," Ron apologized. "I was having a wonderful time with just you, but then they all showed up…"

"You need to apologize to your mother," Daphne huffed in indignation. "How could you go that far, Ron? It was not only rude, but I found your behavior disgusting." She sounds genuinely angry with me.

"She just… gets on my nerves," Ron said, his calm expression facing the water. "Did you hear her? 'He doesn't know what's good for him'… As if I'm a toddler that needs his mummy to wipe down his chin. She belittled me once again, and then she tried to enforce her 'care' on me. I don't need it, and I don't appreciate it. She had her chance when I was younger."

"You're too unforgiving, Ron," Daphne sighed out, her head shaking. "One day, you'll regret that."

"You know what I would definitely regret?" Ron asked. "Not doing my job."

"Your job?" Daphne asked. "You mean The Quibbler business?" No.

"Yes," Ron lied. "Why can't she just understand that her babying me stresses me the most? I mean, I've told her multiple times, and yet, she keeps doing it. Do you know why she keeps doing it?"

"Why?" Daphne asked.

"Because she thinks that if she keeps making noise, she'll be heard," Ron replied. "It's always been like that. Every time our Family has a disagreement, my mum is the first person to start yelling. Well, I don't respond well to that sort of behavior."

"So you're not going to apologize?" Daphne asked with a frown.

"I'll apologize when she apologizes for that letter, or for smacking me without hearing my story, or for screaming at me when I saved Xeno's business, or for the countless times that she made me feel like I didn't exist," Ron replied. "Or better yet, I'll apologize when she apologizes for crying when I was born."

"What?" Daphne blinked, her anger forgotten.

"My mother wept with disappointment when I was born," Ron 'smiled' at Daphne, which made her feel quite uncomfortable. "She wanted a daughter… She wanted Ginny… Not me."

"How do you know this?" Daphne asked. "Did she tell you?"

"The twins used to remind me off it all the time," Ron shrugged. "It was their way of making me cry quickly."

"That's dreadful," Daphne hissed. "Those two… degenerates!"

"Eh… It is what it is," Ron shrugged. "I just wanted to do my work, Daph. I felt like I was finally moving past my breakdown, and then they all showed up. They started asking questions, telling me what to do, and just ignoring what I had to say. I suddenly wanted to be sedated again, but since I had work to do, I knew that it would be stupid to just rest. So I bloody lost it. I just didn't want to spiral anymore." All I wanted was to get my work done. To have some control over my fucked up life.

"Ron, why did you have that breakdown?" Daphne asked, her voice a little gentler than before.

"I was scared…" Ron admitted.

"Scared of what?" Daphne asked. "The seizures?"

"Of being insignificant," Ron replied, and Daphne blinked at him. Ease up, Ron. "I think the seizure triggered my negative thoughts… It doesn't matter. I feel much better now. I listened to my gut, and everything worked out today. I got the papers in, I ran into Madam Bones, and we came to an agreement."

"Madam Bones? The Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement?" Daphne asked quickly.

"The very same," Ron replied. "We had lunch together, and I'll be promoting a Project that the Ministry will announce on Monday. It's sort of an unofficial deal between us, but she's the honorable sort so I should be fine."

"What do you get?" Daphne asked like any Slytherin would.

"Her alliance, I hope," Ron replied. "But also a public acknowledgement from her at the gala."

"The gala? What gala?" Daphne perked up, and Ron smiled at her.

"It's for the people who will be donating for the restoration of St. Mungo's Hospital," Ron replied. "Do you want to go with me?"

"Wouldn't I get invited because of my parents' contribution?" Daphne asked. "Usually, at these events, the whole Family is invited."

"I know, but I want you to go with me," Ron said, and she just stared at him. "I want you there as Daphne, not Lord Greengrass' daughter. I want you to go with me, and I'll go with you. It'll just be Ron and Daphne."

"Aw… You're so cute sometimes," Daphne melted into an adorable mess, but then she perked up again. Once her expression was schooled, she looked him dead in the eyes. "I'll go with you, but I'm still upset with you." And they say that I suffer from mood swings.

"Will you be upset during our date?" Ron asked calmly.

"I don't know," Daphne huffed. "You're really not going to apologize to your mother?"

"No."

"Then I'll be a little upset," Daphne sighed. "I just don't want them to think lowly of you, Ron. But sometimes, you just make it really easy for people to dislike you."

"I know," Ron admitted. "I… I don't like being this way, but I am…" Daphne nodded slowly, and they both settled for silence. Ron began to reimagine his vision of the Black Lake, his eyes scouring the lake for any familiar faces. John, Derek, Susan, Padma, Parvati, Lavender, Hannah, Justin-

"You can move closer, if you want," Daphne suddenly whispered, and Ron looked to her with a blank stare. "Ron, I'm cold."

"Oh…" Ron muttered, and then he shifted right next to Daphne. She snuggled into his left side, while he draped his arm around her. "Better?"

"Rub my left arm," Daphne whispered, and Ron did as he was told. Soft, and she smells so nice. I remember that I wanted to snog her this morning.

"Daphne, sit in my lap," Ron said, and Daphne blinked at him. "You'll be warmer that way."

"Really, Ron?" Daphne gave him a deadpan look. Caught red handed.

"Please?" Ron asked, and Daphne moved over and planted herself on his thighs. Her back is facing me. I can't kiss her like this. Ron wrapped his arms around her, and then he pulled her body back.

"Oh, this is nice," Daphne giggled, and then she snuggled her back into his chest. It is. Ron kissed her right cheek slowly, and then he began to leave a trail of kisses to her neck.

"What's gotten into you?" Daphne hummed.

"I want kisses," Ron whispered. "Do you not feel like it? I can stop."

"Don't stop," Daphne whispered back, and when he kissed her lower jaw, she let out a squeak. Ron turned her face to his with his gloved hand, and then he kissed her lips. She quickly reacted to his lips, her right hand moving up to the back of his skull. She wants to snog?

Ron used his tongue to ask for permission, which she quickly gave. Despite his mind being under the effects of the Calming Draught, Ron found himself enjoying the feeling of his tongue against hers. Daphne, as usual, was a lot more passionate about exploring his mouth, but today, Ron decided to throw caution to the wind. He tightened his hold on her, and then he deepened the kiss even more. Daphne let out a weak moan into his mouth, but neither of them dared to stop.

---

Thirty Minutes Later

They walked up to Hogwarts hand in hand, Daphne seemed to be in a much happier mood than before. Ron, on the other hand, was confused as to why his black suit pants felt a bit damp around his crotch. That's where Daphne was sitting. Wait… What did Charlie used to say about girls? Ron looked at Daphne's arse, his eyes traveling down her skirt and stockings.

"Ron?" Daphne called, and Ron looked up at her. "Do you like watching my bum?"

"I do," Ron replied bluntly, and Daphne just shook her head. "My pants are feeling a little wet-"

"Ahem!" Daphne cleared her throat loudly, and Ron blinked at her. What? "Ron! We're nearly at the Courtyard!"

"And?" Ron asked.

"That Potion…" Daphne sighed out. "Ron, I got… excited… That's all. When girls get excited, we get… wet…"

"I know, it's just never happened before," Ron said, his eyes looking ahead again.

"It has…" Daphne sighed. "Today just got a bit out of hand… We snogged for a long time, and your thing was poking into my bum the entire time."

"It was?" Ron asked, and she gave him a weak nod. She's blushing. Cute. "Sorry, I didn't really realize it."

"That's fine," Daphne tightened her hold on his hand. "I… I didn't really mind…"

"Are you sure?" Ron asked.

"I'm sure," Daphne smiled a little. "I really enjoyed your kissing today. You didn't hold back as usual."

"You know that I hold back?" Ron asked, and Daphne gave a nod. "Why haven't you said anything?"

"I don't want to rush you," Daphne shrugged. "Usually, you try to keep yourself in check a little too much. I don't mind that, but this was a nice change." Noted. I should be more open with what I want. Within reason, of course. As they entered the Courtyard, Ron found himself being stared at by the other students.

"Why are they staring?" Ron asked Daphne, who rolled her eyes.

"Rumors, Ron," Daphne said, her expression turning cold. "This is your third seizure at Hogwarts, and everyone knows that you spend a lot of time at the Hospital Wing. There are rumors about you being sick."

"Since when?" Ron asked.

"Since yesterday," Daphne replied. "Most of the younger girls are talking about it, while the older students feel rather bad for you. We haven't stopped the rumors, mostly because we decided to see where the wind was blowing."

"The wind?" Ron asked, his eyes landing on a Gryffindor fourth year who waved at him with a sad look on her face.

"Sympathy is a powerful emotion, and we figured that we could exploit it," Daphne replied, and Ron looked to her. "Sooner or later, people are going to find out about your conditions. We should set up the groundwork beforehand, just in case. Theo wants to make you look like a brave soul, who despite being ill, is doing his best every day."

"Theodore fucking Nott," Ron frowned a little.

"We won't outright say that you're sick, but we won't do anything to stop the rumors either," Daphne whispered. "We just go about our lives as usual, while all the soft-hearted students look at you with favor."

"Pity, you mean," Ron said.

"You can shut down the rumors if you want," Daphne told him. "We're just offering you advice, after all. Oh, and your siblings know that you had a breakdown this morning."

"I know, I heard the twins shouting," Ron said blandly. "I just hope that they haven't told anyone else."

"I'm sorry about that," Daphne said, and Ron looked at her with a cocked eyebrow. "I was talking to Pomfrey, and they overheard me."

"I see."

"You're not angry?" Daphne asked, and Ron drew in a deep breath.

"It was a mistake," Ron gave her a comforting smile. "I know that you'd never do something like that on purpose. I trust you completely." Daphne smiled genuinely at that, her left hand nearly crushing his gloved one.

"I love you," Daphne whispered, and Ron just smiled at her. "And I'm really glad that the Potion is starting to wear off. You're becoming you again." Ron went to say something, but someone called his name as they entered the Entrance Hall. Ron and Daphne looked to see a bunch of first years coming down the steps, and much to Ron's surprise, the Slytherin first years were mingled with first years from other Houses.

"Ron!" Tori beamed, and she ran up and clung to his middle. "You're alive!" The other first years quickly surrounded him, with most of them looking him over with worried expressions.

"I'm alright," Ron assured them all, while he used his left hand to rub Tori's back.

"Are you sure?" Mathew asked.

"We heard that you were dying," Tom from Ravenclaw said.

"People have been saying terrible things," Lysandra added, she didn't look flirtatious for once. Daphne just looked around herself, and she found herself wondering when Ron had become so important to the first years. Oddly enough, it made her feel rather proud of him.

"I just had a tumble," Ron smiled.

"A tumble?" Derek blinked, while the others waited for an actual answer.

"Mate, we've been worried sick," John said, and a bunch of them nodded in agreement.

"Ron, are you actually sick?" Beth from Hufflepuff piped up, and Ron felt Tori tighten her hug. Tori knows that I'm sick. Looks like she hasn't uttered a word about it to the others though.

"I'm…" Ron started, but then he stopped. What do I say? Ron looked to Daphne, who was still holding his right hand. "I'm perfectly fine. Please don't worry about me." My job is to worry about you, not the other way around.

"Are you sure?" Flora asked.

"People keep telling us that you've had seizures before," Hestia added.

"You lot are stuck with me, I promise," Ron said calmingly. "Don't worry about me, alright?" The first years looked anything but relieved, especially because of Ron's look to Daphne. "I expect you all at our study group tomorrow."

"Wouldn't miss it," Randal from Gryffindor put on a brave face, and his fellow Gryffindors nodded their agreement.

"Good lad," Ron smiled at him, and he puffed out his chest a little.

"We were just heading out to play tag," Sebastian started. "Do you want to play?" Tag? Since when are they so close?

"All of you?" Ron asked the first years, and they nodded. I should join them, and then make sure to include everyone. "Sure, I'll join you."

"Really?!" Christian from Hufflepuff beamed.

"Why not? Sun's still out for a bit," Ron shrugged. "Where are we playing?"

"Near Professor Hagrid's Hut," Derek answered quickly.

"Only Jinxes and Charms allowed," Robert from Gryffindor said, his eyes narrowing on the Slytherins.

"Alright, I'll meet you all there," Ron said, and the first years excitedly made their way out of the Entrance Hall. "Tori, you should join them. I'll be right there."

"Your brain?" Tori looked up, her eyes welled up with tears. Shite.

"There's been no change, little sister," Daphne moved closer, her free hand fixing Tori's hair into place.

"Like I said, just a tumble," Ron kissed the top of Tori's head.

"You're lying," Tori sniffled, and Ron blinked at her. "You bled from your nose and ears… We all heard about it…"

"Who told you that?" Ron asked.

"The Ravenclaws were in the Greenhouse as well, Ron," Daphne sighed. "It started from them, and now everyone is talking about it." Daphne then rubbed Tori's back. "You are a Greengrass, and we don't shed tears in public. Be strong, Tori."

"Can't have my little spy crying, now, can I?" Ron smiled, and Tori released a wet chuckle. Her face twisted a little at that, and she planted her face into his sternum again. She's crying. Damn.

"Shhh, everything is okay," Daphne whispered, while Tori's little body trembled from silent sobs. "Ron, why don't you go to the other first years? I'll take Tori to the common room."

"Are you sure?" Ron asked, and Daphne gave him a nod.

"C'mon, little sister," Daphne said as she put her arms around Tori. "I know where Tracey hides her sweets."

---

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (Outside Hagrid's Hut – Late Evening)

"Colloshoo!" Lysandra chanted as she fired the Shoe-Sticking Hex at Ron's feet, and Ron quickly jumped over it.

"That's a Hex, you little cheat!" Ron laughed, and she squealed as he tagged her.

"Not fair!" Lysandra laughed. "He's got longer legs than us!"

"That's got nothing to do with my skills," Ron smirked as he ran away from her, and the other first years did the same. Lysandra looked around for an easy target, and when her eyes landed on Derek, she bolted in his direction.

"Why do you always come after me?!" Derek yelled as he broke into a sprint.

"She fancies you, mate," a first year joked, and his comment was met with resounding laughter. Once Ron was a safe distant away, he fixed up his suit and watched the first years running about. Hagrid had come out to see what the commotion was, but after seeing the game of tag, he had smiled widely and left the first years to enjoy themselves.

"Psst," someone whispered, and Ron looked back to see a couple of girls hiding behind Hagrid's massive pumpkins.

"You can come hide with us," Poppy from Ravenclaw whispered, and Ron walked up to them and crouched down.

"Hello, Ladies," Ron smiled, and both Beth and Poppy smiled back. "Why are you hiding here?"

"Beth got a bit winded," Poppy replied, and Ron noticed that Beth was looking rather flushed.

"I'm not used to running around like this," Beth panted, though she looked quite happy. "Oh, this is-"

"Poppy, I know," Ron said, and Poppy blinked at him.

"See!" Beth exclaimed, and Poppy shushed her. "Sorry… But see. I told you that he remembered everyone's names."

"I helped you with your star chart," Ron reminded Poppy.

"I know… I just didn't think that you'd remember me…" Poppy muttered, she looked rather shy all of a sudden. Trust me, Pansy made me go over your names for an entire day. I really ought to listen to her more often.

"Why are you wearing a suit?" Beth asked out of the blue.

"I went to Diagon Alley today," Ron replied. "I had some work to do."

"My sister works at Diagon Alley," Beth said, and Ron suddenly remembered Tiffany.

"Tiffany, right?" Ron asked, and Beth's jaw dropped. "I had lunch at The Pond, and she introduced herself."

"She did?" Beth blinked, while Poppy sniggered to herself. "What… What did she say? To you, that is… About me…"

"Nothing too embarrassing," Ron teased, and Beth hid her tiny face behind her hands. "Letters, huh?"

"She's so embarrassing…" Beth whined, while Ron and Poppy just laughed. "Oh my God…" God? Ah, Muggle-Born. Need to remember that.

"It's alright," Ron said, an amused smile on his face. "I'm glad that you think so highly of me."

"I'm going back out there," Beth said quickly, and then she ran off to join the others.

"Did I tease her too much?" Ron asked Poppy, who just smiled widely.

"She's a bit shy, but she'll be fine," Poppy replied. "Oh, and she has a massive crush on you."

"Her sister alluded to as much," Ron said. "Want to join the others?"

"Sure," Poppy stood up, and Ron followed suit. "Someone has to watch her back, right?"

"You two seem to be good friends," Ron noted.

"Different Houses, but I really like her," Poppy shrugged. Good. Hopefully, the other first years take after your example.

"Are yeh lot hungry?!" Hagrid's voice boomed, and everyone looked to see him coming out of his hut. "I've made some brownies for yeh! Yeh'll need yer strength if you plan on runnin' about like that!" Before the giant Professor knew it, he was already cornered by excited first years. "One at a time! Chew before yeh swallow!"

"Go on," Ron said to Poppy, who quickly joined the others. While the first years mugged Hagrid, Ron looked towards Hogwarts. His smile died as he remembered the flames engulfing the castle, and for a fleeting moment, he was filled with melancholy. I won't let that happen in my Cycle. I'll do whatever it takes, even if it gets me killed.

---

Thursday 5th November, 1993 (The Great Hall – After Dinner)

Dinner had been a rather odd affair, mostly because people kept looking over at him. Ron, for the most part, focused on chatting with his friends, but occasionally, he spotted sad looks being shot at him. It didn't really bother him, but after obsessing over secrecy for so long, Ron found the limelight to be unnerving. This feeling of being unnerved increased when Hagrid told the other Professors about Ron and the first years, which earned him all sorts of looks from the staff.

The girls had been a blessing, especially Tracey, who constantly made him laugh and feel at ease. Pansy droned on about different makeup kits that she wanted to buy, just like any other day. Millie discussed Dueling tactics with him, and she promised him that her father was sending over a Scroll with a powerful Spell on it. And Daphne just held his hand under the table, which calmed his nerves. Blaise and Theo mostly talked about their plans for Hogsmeade, while Malfoy just sat beside Ron quietly. The pale boy looked a little troubled, but Ron elected to ignore that for now.

"I'm not getting a haircut," Theo told Pansy as they all made their way out.

"Theo, you've had that haircut for too long," Pansy frowned. "I'm sorry, but it's got to go. We have to show our change to the other Slytherins. We can't be seen as little kids anymore."

"I get that, but why a haircut?" Theo complained, and then he looked to Blaise. "Blaise, mate… Tell her to stop."

"I think she's right," Blaise shrugged, and Pansy smirked. "It's just a haircut, Theo."

"I look good with this haircut though," Theo groaned as they entered the Entrance Hall, and that's when the twins hopped into their way. Damn. Here we go.

"Ron, can we talk to you?" Ron said before the twins could, and they both frowned at him. Tracey and Theo sniggered, while the others smirked. "Sure thing, you two. Is the Courtyard good?"

"It is," came Percy's voice from behind him, and Ron knew that they had surrounded him. Well played.

"I'll see you guys at the common room," Ron said, and his friends nodded before leaving. Daphne, like usual, was the last to leave.

"Let's go," Percy said, and Ron followed him outside. The twins trailed after Ron, and Ron was certain that they would attempt to block him if he tried to do a runner. As if they even could.

"Really?" Ron asked when he spotted the Golden Trio waiting besides Luna and Ginny. "They have no business being here."

"Ron, they're just worried," Percy whispered. No, they're just nosey. I mean, why else would Harry be here?

"Hello," Ron greeted everyone, and his eyes immediately spotted Luna's white slippers. "Um… Luna, where are your school shoes?"

"I misplaced them," Luna hummed, and Ron blinked at her. Misplaced them?

"Someone stole them, you mean," Ginny frowned. "Was it that older girl that calls you 'Loony', huh? Was it her?"

"Ginny, she doesn't mean anything by it," Luna smiled airily, but Ginny's expression became dark. Gertrude Swans. That fucking bitch is still going after Luna? Why?

"Gertrude Swans," Ron frowned deeply, and Luna blinked at him. "That's her name, right? The prefect?"

"Gertrude isn't a bully," Percy said dismissively. "She's a prefect, Ron. She wouldn't-"

"What? Abuse her power?" Ron cut him off. "As if those in charge haven't abused their power before."

"Hear, hear," the twins said, while Percy and Hermione looked quite vexed.

"I know her," Percy said firmly. "She takes her job very seriously, and she even helps out at the Hospital Wing." Oh, I know. Malfoy's told me all about her 'Healing Skills'.

"I don't really care," Luna shrugged, her smile back on her face. "My friends don't call me Loony, so it's alright."

"Gertrude Swans," George said. "Remember that name, Fred."

"Oh, I already have," Fred said, and the twins smirked at each other. Good, I hope they fuck her up.

"You can't go after a prefect," Hermione finally spoke up. "You should talk to a Professor instead."

"We plan to," Fred chuckled. "Professor Zonko." Ha!

"There's no Professor Zonko," Hermione blinked, and then she caught up. "That's not even funny."

"We're all getting sidetracked," Harry said firmly, his green eyes fixed on Ron. "Ron, what happened to you?"

"I had a seizure from exhaustion," Ron replied. "It's happened-"

"After that," Harry said quickly, and Ron couldn't help but wonder why Harry was so interested in his injury.

"Madam Pomfrey mentioned a mental breakdown," Percy added, and Ron let out a groan. "Ron, take this seriously."

"Mate, we're just worried," Neville piped in. "People are saying that you're… sick."

"I'm dying," Ron told them, and everyone went dead quiet. "That was a joke."

"How the fuck is that funny?" Fred lost his humor. "What's the matter with you?" Clearly, I have issues.

"Just a bit of gallows humor," Ron raised his hands in mock surrender, and even Luna frowned at him. "What does it matter to any of you?"

"What?" Ginny blinked, while the others looked quite taken aback.

"Oh, you're back are you?" Ron frowned at her, and she seemed to shrink immediately. Ron then looked to Percy, he really didn't want to keep looking at Ginny. I'll do something stupid, I just know it. "I have a lot on my plate, and it stressed me out. Madam Pomfrey sedated me, and Daphne helped me cheer up again. I'm fine now."

"That's it?" George asked. "That's all you have to say?"

"Why do you make it sound like I owe you an explanation," Ron frowned at George.

"Maybe because you do," George frowned back. What? What the fuck?

"And how do you figure that?" Ron asked. "I just told you what happened. I got panicky, and people that I trust pulled me back. End of story."

"People that you trust?" Hermione asked. "What? Greengrass?"

"She happens to be my girlfriend," Ron said in disbelief. "And trust me, she's been there for me in ways that you can't even imagine." Hermione didn't like the sound of that, but Ron didn't really care.

"We just wanted to see you, Ron," Percy spoke up.

"And I couldn't handle seeing you," Ron told him. "I was in a bad place, and the fact that you're upset over me choosing my own mental health over your feelings is just pathetic. I needed help, alright? And I got it. Why have you dragged me out here?" No one said anything, but Ron already knew the answer. Nosey twats. "You lot are making me angry with your misguided concern… I'm leaving."

"Misguided concern?" Hermione fumed. "You're being rude, Ron!"

"I'm being rude?" Ron asked, and then he looked to Harry. "Why is he here?"

"What?" Harry blinked.

"Yeah, why are you here?" Ron asked. "You don't give a shite about me, and I know it. Are you still looking into me, eh?" Harry frowned deeply, while the others just felt uncomfortable. "Spare me your nosiness… All of you. I don't need it. I mean, I don't delve into your lives, do I? Why can't you all show me the same respect? Why do you have to drag me out here, and then ambush me with invasive questions? What makes you think that I owe you anything?"

"Something is definitely wrong if you're being this defensive," Fred snapped. Merlin, just leave me alone. I don't need this attention on me.

"Yes, let's corner the person who had a mental breakdown this morning, and then yell at him," Ron laughed scathingly. "All because he isn't spilling his guts to you about his personal issues. I mean, fuck that guy for wanting some privacy, eh? Piss off." Ron turned around and began to leave at that, but the twins jumped into his way.

"Are you sick, or not?" George demanded.

"I'm not sick," Ron lied. "If I was, Madam Pomfrey wouldn't let me go to Diagon Alley today."

"You went to Diagon Alley today?!" Percy exclaimed. "Is that why you're wearing a suit?! Merlin, Ron… You just had a mental-"

"I know," Ron stopped him. "But like I said, I have a lot on my plate."

"You're overworking yourself," Luna finally spoke up. "Your seizure was because of exhaustion, we all believe that. But we're just worried, Ron."

"Some of you are worried," Ron shook his head. "Others are just here because they enjoy being nosey. I'll let you lot figure out who is who." Ron then looked to the twins again. "Step aside, you're making me anxious."

"Anxious?" the twins asked, and Ron felt a ball of anxiety in his stomach.

"Just… Just move, please," Ron said, he hated the feeling of being outnumbered.

"Move out of his way," Percy sighed, but the twins just stared at Ron. "Now!"

"Fine," Fred sneered at Ron. "Go ahead and have another seizure, see if we care." Ron just walked past the twins and entered the castle again, his hands were beginning to tremble. C'mon, Ron! Don't let their words get to you. They don't know about your conditions, so just relax. Ron put his hands in his pockets, and just as he was walking up to the stairs leading into the Dungeons, Percy caught up with him.

"Wait, Ron," came Percy's voice, and Ron grit his teeth.

"What?" Ron asked without looking back.

"Your Chronic Stress… It caused the breakdown, right?" Percy asked.

"Please… Please don't talk about it," Ron sighed out. "Don't you understand that you all make me feel worse when you remind me of it?"

"All?" Percy asked gently.

"Doesn't matter…" Ron said, and then he looked back at Percy. "I got help, alright? I'm moving on."

"You should tell the others," Percy started, and Ron closed his eyes. "What? Ron, they'll help you."

"Have you helped me?" Ron asked, and Percy blinked at him. "What do you know about Chronic Stress?" Percy just stared at Ron for a bit, and then he swallowed thickly.

"I… I've had… N. E. W. Ts," Percy muttered, he felt like he had been slapped.

"I'm not blaming you, Perce," Ron said. "I just understand that people have their own shite to worry about. Telling the others will just make them worry about me needlessly. Not to mention the pity parade… I'm not some drooling toddler who doesn't know what's good for him. I know my limits, and I know that right now, I can be better than I am. All of you just need to understand that, and if you can't, then stay out of my way."

With that, Ron walked down to the Dungeons. He made sure to think about anything but his stresses, and he mainly focused on his accomplishments today. He had made a deal with Madam Bones, he had given Gornuk the documents, Daphne and he had enjoyed each other's company, and the first years didn't feel constricted by House Rivalry because of his study group. He had done his best today, and that's all that mattered. And yet, he had also made mistakes… Fuck, now I can't stop feeling anxious.

"Purity," Ron said to the entrance, and it slid aside for him. Ron made his way into the common room, and he immediately felt eyes fixed on him. Just find your friends, Ron. Ron began to walk over to them, but Clara moved into his way.

"Ron, a word?" Clara asked, and Ron put on a smile.

"Sure," Ron said, and she smiled softly.

"Come on," Clara said, and then she led him towards the Training Area. Ron smiled at anyone who was looking at him with a worried expression, and most of them were content with that. As they stepped into the Training Area, Clara tangled her arm with his.

"We're doing this again?" Ron asked, a smile on his face. "I have missed it."

"Me too," Clara smiled a little more fully. "That, and I want to make sure that your muscles are developing nicely."

"Really?" Ron asked.

"Most wizards rely too much on Magic," Clara sighed dramatically. "I prefer it when boys have some natural strength."

"There you are," came Carey's voice, and Ron looked ahead to see her standing with Samantha. "How are you feeling, Ron?"

"Much better now that Clara's chest is squeezing my arm," Ron joked, which earned him a smirk from Samantha. "I'm doing fine. Nothing to worry about, I promise."

"People are saying that you're sick," Carey reminded him, and Ron nodded slowly.

"It won't affect my job," Ron decided to say, and Clara's face fell. They probably have their suspicions already, and I could really use their sympathy.

"You… You're really sick?" Clara asked, her flirty demeanor completely gone.

"Three seizures in three years, and his constant appointments with Madam Pomfrey," Samantha sighed. "We already knew this, Clara."

"You know about my appointments with Madam Pomfrey?" Ron asked, though he wasn't really surprised.

"Come here," Carey said softly, and Ron slowly walked up to her. She cupped his cheeks, and then she looked into his eyes. "Is your illness fatal, Ron?"

"It… It has the… potential to be," Ron whispered, and Carey's eyes dulled immediately. Shite, I shouldn't have admitted that.

"I… I see…" Carey muttered, her hands leaving his face. "I'm sorry…"

"What can we do for you?" Samantha said, her voice still reliable. "We can lower your responsibilities if it helps."

"I promised to help, and I will keep my word," Ron said firmly. "Thank you for the offer, but it's not necessary." This is a little awkward. "I'm actually feeling a bit spent… May I be excused?"

"Go and rest, Ron," Samantha said, while Carey just stood there with a dull expression.

"Goodnight," Ron whispered, and then he turned around and began to leave.

"Wait," Clara caught up to him by the stairs.

"Yes?" Ron asked, and he was rather taken aback by her firm expression.

"You're proud, I can respect that," Clara started. "But pride is not worth an early grave. If you ever feel like we're asking too much of you, you come straight to me. Understand? You come straight to me, and I'll sort Carey and Samantha out."

"I understand," Ron said, and Clara hugged him tightly. Those tits!

"Don't get worse for us, okay?" Clara whispered. "This House business isn't as important as you."

"Important as me?" Ron blinked, his arms returning her hug.

"I told you, Ron… I read people," Clara whispered in his right ear. "People like you are special."

"People like me?"

"People who put others first, even if it hurts them," Clara replied, and Ron just stood there. "You're special… Haven't we always told you that?"

"I… I don't understand… Where is this coming from?" Ron asked, his ears turning red.

"I want you to come to me if you ever need help," Clara ignored his question. "If Daphne Greengrass isn't available, I'll help you until she arrives." Ron pulled back at that, and he noticed that Clara looked quite sad. "Don't get worse for our benefit. We'll never forgive you for that." Ron nodded slowly, and then he looked towards Carey and Samantha. Much to his surprise, Samantha seemed to be comforting Carey. They really do care about me that much? Why?

"I'll come to you if Daphne isn't around…" Ron said, and then he quickly left. I shouldn't have told them. I'm so fucking selfish! Look at them… They're genuinely scared for me now. Fuck!

---

Friday 6th November, 1993 (Rosa Lee Teabag - Afternoon)

"I must admit, this agreement is a bit too thorough for my liking," Barnabas said, while Ron finished his second cup of Masala Chai. "You've taken the fun out of this."

"Ruining your fun is fun for me," Ron smirked from behind his teacup, and Barnabas let out a chuckle.

"Which Goblin put this together for you?" Barnabas asked. "I must meet him."

"What if there was no Goblin?" Ron asked in return.

"This is a Goblin's handiwork," Barnabas smiled at Ron. "They have a way of sealing loops that is just… irritating. Instead of saying that I can't besmirch your magazine, this Goblin made sure to write down me and the Daily Prophet. He even included all of our subsidiaries, past and present. Not to mention our printing companies as well. Too thorough…"

"These rules apply to me as well," Ron pointed out. "You and I can coexist in peace."

"What if I don't sign it?" Barnabas smirked, his thick moustache shining because of styling products.

"Then I win," Ron smirked back.

"This round, Mr. Weasley," Barnabas added, he looked anything but annoyed.

"Can you really stand that though?" Ron asked playfully. "I outmaneuvered you when you tried to block my advertisement campaign as well."

"The point wasn't to block you, Mr. Weasley," Barnabas said pleasantly. "It was to wound you."

"Wound me, Mr. Cuffe?" Ron asked.

"You don't shoot the rabbit right out of his hole, you give it a chance to run," Barnabas said, and Ron cocked an eyebrow. "It's just more sporting that way."

"Do I strike you as a rabbit?" Ron asked. "I'm a damn Basilisk, Mr. Cuffe. Don't make me turn my gaze on you." Barnabas let out a throaty laugh at that, while Ron just smiled at him. In an odd sort of way, this back and forth was fun.

"You and I must have dinner soon, Mr. Weasley," Barnabas said. "The things I've heard about you… They beggar belief."

"If you sign the agreement, we can have dinner next week," Ron said calmly.

"Very well," Barnabas chuckled, and then he took out a Muggle pen from his robes.

"Please, use mine," Ron said as he pulled out the Gringotts Quill from his briefcase. Barnabas blinked at it, and then he put his own pen away.

"Paranoid?" Barnabas asked as he accepted the Golden Quill.

"Just wary of intelligent people," Ron replied.

"Smart," Barnabas said, and then he signed the agreement. Finally. I was worried for a bit. The ink from that Quill is binding. "Here you are, young man."

"Thank you," Ron said as he took back the papers and Quill, which he stored away in his briefcase.

"Have you ever gone hunting, Mr. Weasley?" Barnabas asked, his teacup hiding his mouth. I've hunted down a piece of the Dark Lord's soul, mate.

"No," Ron replied. "Is it enjoyable?"

"Depends," Barnabas replied.

"On what?"

"Whether you're the hunter, or the prey," Barnabas replied.

"And am I your prey?" Ron asked, and then he finished up his tea.

"Not quite," Barnabas replied, and Ron blinked at him. "Welcome to the game, Mr. Weasley."

"The game?" Ron asked.

"Politics," Barnabas clarified. "Thirteen years old, and already playing with the men."

"I have no interest in politics," Ron lied.

"Yes, you do," Barnabas simply smirked. "What time are you free next week?"

"Thursday night," Ron replied.

"The Pond? I hear you enjoyed the Honey Glazed Lamb," Barnabas said, and Ron tensed immediately. What the fuck? That was yesterday! He's watching me?! Ron just stared at Barnabas, his amusement completely gone. "Come now, Mr. Weasley… Don't be so upset. You didn't respect the fact that I have eyes everywhere, and this is the result." Does he know about my deal with Madam Bones? No, that was a private conversation. But still…

"I don't enjoy being followed, Mr. Cuffe," Ron said, making sure to keep his temper at bay.

"Then you should be more careful," Barnabas said coldly. "A Basilisk isn't hard to miss."

"A Basilisk can also kill you if you anger it," Ron said as he stood up. "Perhaps we should both be a little more careful."

"I'll see you next week, Mr. Weasley," Barnabas said, and Ron gave him a parting nod. What the fuck have I gotten myself into now?

---

Hermione Granger's POV

Friday 6th November, 1993 (Gryffindor Tower – After Classes)

She couldn't care less about Greengrass, or her 'special bond' with Ron. Why should she care? She was ten times smarter than Greengrass, who was nothing but a vain brat with too much money. Just another airheaded bimbo at Hogwarts. If Ron prefers girls like that, then more power to him. It has nothing to do with me. Nothing. And yet, Hermione was eagerly awaiting her Duel with Greengrass.

"Hermione, are you coming?" came Neville's voice, and Hermione broke out of her thoughts. She was sitting in a secluded corner, her books from class surrounding her.

"Coming where?" Hermione asked.

"The study group," Neville replied, his brow furrowed. "Are you alright? You've got this scary look about you ever since yesterday."

"I'm fine," Hermione said haughtily. Neville slowly sat down in front of her, his eyes fixed on hers. "What is it, Neville? What do you want from me?"

"I'm a friendly," Neville said calmly, and Hermione blinked at him. Did I just snap at him?

"I'm… I'm sorry," Hermione sighed out. What's wrong with me? "I'm just a bit stressed…"

"Want to talk?" Neville asked, and Hermione shook her head. "Shame… I could really use a conversation right now." Really?

"Why?" Hermione asked, and Neville smiled a little sadly.

"Harry and I got into an argument…" Neville replied, and Hermione quickly sat up to attention. "I questioned him about the Funeral thing, and he told me everything."

"Everything?" Hermione swallowed, she had spied on Ron too.

"He broke into Ron's private things," Neville shook his head, and quite selfishly, Hermione felt relieved. I'm not in trouble. Wait… What am I thinking?

"I um… I followed him too…" Hermione confessed, it was the right thing to do.

"I know," Neville said, he sounded a little disappointed. "Why didn't you two tell me?"

"You were mourning, Neville," Hermione replied quickly.

"No… No, you knew that what you were doing was wrong," Neville said, and Hermione felt herself shrink a little. "Merlin, you two… Didn't you learn from my stupidity last year? I made mountains out of molehills, and it nearly destroyed our friendship with Ron. Why are you two making the same mistake as me now?"

"I'm not," Hermione denied quickly. "I left Harry, Neville. He was doing something wrong, and I told him as much."

"He went on about something called an MRI," Neville said, his tone almost scolding. "What's that about? He said that he needs to find out what it could mean."

"I… It's…" Hermione muttered, when did Neville get so intimidating? It's because you're feeling guilty, Hermione. You should've stopped Harry, but you chose to ignore it. "It's a Muggle health test… It's used to scan for any internal injuries… I think…"

"Internal injuries? Like a brain?" Neville asked, and Hermione blinked at him. "Harry said that the pictures he found in Ron's room looked like a brain."

"I… I guess," Hermione said, her own brain quickly creating theories. Ron got a brain scan? But a Muggle one? Doesn't make sense. "What do you think Ron was trying to hide yesterday?"

"Pardon?" Neville asked.

"Ron… He was trying to hide something yesterday," Hermione said. "Didn't you notice how defensive he got? You don't think that he's actually sick, do you?" Hermione and Neville both felt a little tense at the thought.

"Hermione, he wasn't hiding anything," Neville sighed. "He wants privacy, and he deserves that."

"But if he's sick, then we need to know about it," Hermione argued quickly. "We're his friends, and we deserve to know if he's in trouble."

"Why? What are we going to do?" Neville asked, and Hermione blinked at him. "Nothing…"

"Brain injuries can be serious, Neville," Hermione frowned deeply.

"You think I don't know that?" Neville frowned back. "You forget that I lost my parents to a brain injury of sorts…" Hermione froze in her spot. "Yeah… If Ron is actually hurt, then we need to respect his privacy. He clearly doesn't want to talk about it with us, and if we keep prodding into it, he'll cut ties with us. I'm his eternal friend, Hermione… I can't betray him again. I can't shame my Gran, not after all the pain she's been through over the last month."

"Neville… Why are we having this conversation?" Hermione asked meekly.

"Harry needs to be stopped," Neville said firmly, and Hermione looked down at her lap. "You should've stopped him outright, but you didn't… He's crossed lines, and he doesn't even realize it. I get that he feels neglected, I really do, but Ron's not to blame for that. We're Harry's friends, and we need to bring him back before he does something that he regrets."

"Regrets?" Hermione asked.

"Ron isn't a person that you cross… Everyone knows that…" Neville said, and Hermione couldn't help but agree.

---

Lord Voldemort's POV

Friday 6th November, 1993 (Thief's End Tavern – Evening)

Incompetence. Lord Voldemort was so sick of incompetence. Fenrir had one job to do, and he had managed to botch that up. The disgusting dog had given into his baser nature, and his savagery had resulted in a bitter defeat. The Dark Lord's first campaign since his return would be forever marred by defeat. Fenrir would pay for that.

Over the last few days, the Dark Lord had turned the Thief's End Tavern into his base of operations. His body was severely strained after his fight with Gaspard, and so traveling was out of the question. Gaspard's 'children' had devoured the bartender during their fight, and occasionally, he'd see them spending time together. They unnerved the Dark Lord for some reason. They never spoke. They didn't even acknowledge his presence. They simply… existed. All he knew about them was that they were older than even Dumbledore, and that if they didn't get fed regularly, then they'd try to eat him as well.

As for the Blood Lord, he had been making inquiries on the Dark Lord's behalf over the last few days. Gaspard was unlike anyone that the Dark Lord had met before, and begrudgingly, the Dark Lord had decided to treat him with respect. Gaspard seemed to relish the idea of another war, but only because he wished to fight for the sake of fighting. According to Gaspard, the World was losing its splendor due to civilization. The Dark Lord didn't understand what that meant, nor did he care to learn.

The door to the Tavern creaked open, and the Dark Lord looked to see Gaspard entering the tavern. He was dragging a mewling man behind him, and upon seeing his children, he tossed the man to them with ease. Within seconds, blood and entrails flew across the room. The man's screams were muffled when one of the children crushed his windpipe with a strong punch. The Dark Lord felt disgusted by these savage monsters, but he didn't show it. Filthy animals.

"As requested," Gaspard smiled at the Dark Lord, and then he placed a bottle filled with Unicorn Blood on the table. The Dark Lord eyed the bottle, and Non-verbally, he determined that the contents weren't tampered with.

"Where did you find it?" Lord Voldemort asked, his thin lips curling into a smile.

"He had some in his inventory," Gaspard gestured to the man being ripped apart, and then he sat down in front of the Dark Lord. "He was peddling women and children too… Disgusting man."

"Did you kill them?" Lord Voldemort asked, and Gaspard just stared at him.

"I set them free," Gaspard replied truthfully.

"You left witnesses?"

"I did," Gaspard shrugged. "Do you have a problem with that?" Scarlet eyes clashed against orange ones, but neither of them made a move. One day, I'll kill this thing. The Dark Lord took the bottle of Unicorn Blood, and he quickly drank it down. He immediately felt life course through his strained body, and his sudden resurgence of power made every bottle in the bar explode.

"Excellent…" Lord Voldemort smiled, his eyes blazing red. "You've done well, Gaspard."

"While I was out, I tried to find your dog's whereabouts as well," Gaspard said. "He's gone underground. No one has seen him, or anyone sharing his description. He might even be dead."

"He'll die when I allow him to," the Dark Lord hissed.

"The Hungarian Ministry had nothing to do with that massacre," Gaspard went on. "I know the Hungarian Minister for Magic, and he's as stumped as you." Stumped? Disrespectful cur! "I think that someone hired a private army to spank your wolves."

"Who would dare?" Lord Voldemort demanded.

"Someone rich, I'd say," Gaspard said, he sounded rather bored. "And someone who either wanted to hit you where it hurt, or they just hate wolves. Or both." Who? Who could amass such a force so quickly? Lucius? Cornelius? No, they would never dare betray me. Who would come after me like this? Not Dumbledore, it isn't his way.

"Now that I've… recovered… my strength," Lord Voldemort started. "I will be departing for Russia. I have contacts there, and with their help, I'll replace Fenrir's army."

"I'll go to England, I think," Gaspard smirked. "It's been a while since I enjoyed the delights of Knockturn Alley."

"Delights? Is that what you plan to do?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"I plan to find Order members," Gaspard said, and the Dark Lord was a little taken aback. "They will all meet… unfortunate ends. We'll hit them before they hit us."

"They are under Albus Dumbledore's protection," the Dark Lord warned.

"That just makes it more fun," Gaspard smiled, his orange eyes gleaming with anticipation. "I met Albus Dumbledore once."

"You did?" Lord Voldemort asked out of curiosity.

"He was a young man, and I was passing through Godric's Hollow," Gaspard replied. Godric's Hollow? "I should've killed him then and there. What a shame." Gaspard stood up at that, and then he looked to his children. "Christina, take your siblings to our fort. I will be gone for a while. Hecate will watch over you all in my absence."

The children just looked at him, their mouths and bodies sullied with blood. And then, they simply departed without uttering a single word.

"They will not be joining you?" the Dark Lord asked.

"No," Gaspard smiled a little sadly, much to the Dark Lord's confusion. "They know that they'll never see me again." I cannot understand this creature. "Come, Lord Voldemort… Death awaits."

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: I hope you guys enjoyed that! Sorry again for being late, and also sorry for not including Ron and Daphne's date. I want to make it special, you know? Tacking it on at the end didn't feel right.

I'll see you guys on Friday!