AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 94 is here! I just scanned through it for errors, but I'm really sleepy, so I might have missed some of them. It's like 3 A.M right now, so please, forgive the errors. Let me know if there is something that breaks immersion, as always.

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 94 - The Road Ahead

Ginevra Weasley's POV

Wednesday 25th November, 1993 (Entrance Hall – Evening)

"He was in tears, and you two kept going," Hermione chastised the twins, while Ginny hovered behind with Neville and Harry. "What's the matter with you?!"

"Hermione… It's Malfoy," Harry spoke up, and Ginny took a step away from him. It was nice knowing you, Harry.

Hermione turned around with an angry scowl, and Ginny heard Harry draw in a sharp breath.

"What difference does that make?!" Hermione snapped. "It was barbaric, and cruel!"

"Look, we didn't know that he was going to start bawling," Fred started.

"But you still kept going," Ginny spoke without thinking, and the twins frowned at her. "What? I'm just… saying…"

"Go on, Ginny," Hermione ordered.

"Well, it felt… slightly… mean," Ginny all but whispered, but they all heard her. The truth is that I didn't enjoy that half as much as I thought I would. Malfoy sounded like a kicked puppy.

"Slightly mean?" George just stared at his sister. "This coming from the girl who has openly spoken out against Malfoy." Yeah, I don't have a leg to stand on.

"And we didn't know that it was Malfoy who was around the corner, we were just waiting for a Slytherin," Fred said defensively.

"So that makes it alright?!" Hermione exploded once again.

"It was just a joke," the twins said together.

"Why are your knickers in such a twist over that spoilt little brat?" George asked Hermione.

"Is it because he's easy on the eyes?" Fred asked right after, and even Ginny frowned at the twins.

"That's taking things too far," Harry stepped forward, his emerald eyes fixed on the twins.

"How can you say that to her after what Malfoy used to call her?" Neville asked.

"Again, it was a joke," Fred groaned, and then he looked to George. "Why are we even listening to them?"

"I have no earthly idea, brother mine," George replied.

"Because I'm going to tell Professor McGonagall about what you two are up to," Hermione said haughtily, and the twins went dead quiet. Uh oh. If there's anything that the twins can't stand, it's a tattletale.

"Hermione, don't," Ginny said, while the twins just stared at Hermione.

"I'm not scared of them," Hermione glared at the twins.

"You'll tell Professor McGonagall, will you?" Fred asked, there was not a hint of amusement in his voice.

"I will," Hermione challenged, while Harry and Neville just let out tired sighs.

"Leave her alone," Ginny moved in-between the twins and Hermione. "Your joke was funny, but it became cruel when you started humiliating Malfoy despite his state. Hermione's not wrong, even if she's being a little too uptight."

"Uptight?!" Hermione nearly shrieked. For Merlin's sake, just be quiet, and let me deal with them.

"You've had your fun, now move on," Ginny stared right into Fred's eyes.

"Fine," George said, and then he patted Fred's arm. "Let's go, Fred, we have plans to make."

Fred eyed Ginny for a few seconds, and Ginny matched his gaze. I'm not backing off here, so you can keep staring all you like. When Fred realized that Ginny had no intention of being intimidated, he and George left for Gryffindor Tower without another word. Once they were gone, Ginny felt her knees wobble a little. I've never stood up to the twins like that before. I mean, we've argued and fought, but this was different.

"I'm not being uptight," Hermione huffed, and Ginny turned to face her.

"If you turn the twins in, we'll lose third place," Ginny told Hermione. "Just look at the Hourglasses, Hermione… Slytherin is dominating every House, and the twins want us to win. They might take things too far every now and then, but they're just trying to help Gryffindor the only way they know how."

"Plus, you'll just make them your enemies," Neville added, and then he patted Hermione's back. "Let's get some fresh air, alright?"

"Alright…" Hermione immediately lost her gusto, and Neville guided her out to the Courtyard. Wow… I say all that, and she immediately listens to Neville?

"You're right about the House Cup," Harry said, and Ginny looked to see him standing in front of the Slytherin Hourglass. "I can't understand how they got so far ahead… It's not even halfway through the year, and we're miles behind."

"Knowing them, they came to school this year with a scheme of some sort," Ginny said, she still felt slightly uneasy around Harry. But not when we're flying together. When we're soaring through the sky, I feel completely at ease.

"A scheme?" Harry looked to Ginny, who simply shrugged.

"I have no idea," Ginny admitted. "I honestly can't think like them."

"That's fair enough," Harry smiled at her. "Thanks for what you did just then, by the way."

"Pardon?"

"Hermione can be… passionate," Harry said. "Too passionate, even. Thanks for standing up for her like that, I didn't even think about where it was all headed."

"The twins aren't as rotten as she thinks," Ginny said, her face felt a little hot. "They want to win, just like the rest of us, but they're not interested in academics. And since Quidditch isn't enough to bring us back, they're trying to pitch in the only way they know how."

"You really know your siblings, huh?" Harry looked back to the Slytherin Hourglass. Most of them.

"Harry, are you alright?" Ginny asked as she walked up to his side. "You've been acting… odd… lately."

"Odd?" Harry asked.

"Reserved, withdrawn, quiet, subdued-"

"I get it," Harry sighed, and Ginny smirked at him. Just pretend like your flying around, and remember Luna's advice. Harry is just Harry. "I'm just trying to sort through some personal issues."

"I won't probe," Ginny decided to back off. "But I will say this… You're not alone, Harry. You've got Hermione and Neville, and even us Weasleys."

She saw Harry tense a little at the mention of her Family name, which she thought was quite peculiar. I think that he's at odds with Ron… All three of them are. Ginny herself was quite distracted these days, especially because she was trying to come out of her shell, but she had still noticed that the Trio seemed to be avoiding Ron at any cost. If he was in the room, they wouldn't even look in his direction. Not to mention the study group… Did he throw them out? No, he wouldn't do that. Would he? Damn, why can't I predict him anymore?

"Ginny?" Harry called, and Ginny blinked at him. "You alright? You just zoned out completely."

"Sorry," Ginny shook her head clear. "I was thinking about Slytherin's strategy."

"Well?" Harry asked. Bloody hell! I lied without thinking things through!

"I… came up with nothing," Ginny said lamely, but Harry bought it. "Do you want to join Neville and Hermione outside?"

"Sure," Harry agreed, and they began heading outside.

"By the way…" Ginny started, her voice suddenly filled with mischief. "What's going on between those two?"

"Excuse me?" Harry blinked.

"Did you not see what just happened?" Ginny asked. "She was all hyped up for a confrontation, but he calmed her down with one sentence. Trust me, that wasn't normal behavior."

"Oh… I don't know," Harry said uncomfortably. "They're friends… I mean, we all are… Neville just has a way of calming people down…" Boys. They're so clueless sometimes.

"Right," Ginny sniggered. "Neville is the Hermione Whisperer, is he?"

"I… I don't know what to say…" Harry admitted, he hadn't even noticed anything out of the ordinary.

"I'm just joking around, Harry, don't be so tense," Ginny teased, she liked that she had turned the tables on him for once. Be confident, Ginny. Harry is just Harry.

As they approached Hermione and Neville, who were talking to each other on a bench, Ginny couldn't help but picture them as a couple. I think it could work. Hermione is brilliant, but temperamental. While Neville is quite ordinary, but has a comforting presence. Actually, Neville is getting taller… And even handsome. He'll have a nice strong jawline in the Future, I can tell.

"It's the right thing to do, Neville," Hermione finished as Harry and Ginny stopped in front of them.

"What's the right thing to do?" Harry asked.

"She wants to turn the twins in," Neville told them, and then he looked to Hermione. "Hermione, you're not thinking things through. Sure, they'll get in trouble and the pranks will stop, but you'll be next on the chopping block."

"I'm not scared of them, Neville," Hermione narrowed her eyes on him.

"I know that," Neville said gently. "You're not scared of anyone, but you are being impulsive. Getting the twins into trouble will only hurt Gryffindor."

"So we just let them terrorize other students?" Hermione asked, while Harry and Ginny looked between the two. Yeah… I sense sparks. It's a real shame that Hermione only has eyes for my brother. Oh, and her books.

"Neville's right, Hermione," Harry said. "We won't win the House-Cup at this rate."

"The Slytherins aren't retaliating though," Hermione told them bluntly. "The only thing that the twins are accomplishing is unnecessary mayhem."

"Why aren't they retaliating?" Harry suddenly asked. "They're a mean lot, and yet, they're just taking the twins' pranks without even raising a finger."

"Yeah…" Ginny muttered. Odd, I didn't think of that. "I honestly can't imagine why they haven't retaliated."

"Maybe it's because Snape's not here?" Neville suggested. "Without his favoritism, they know that they can't get away with their actions."

"See?" Hermione perked up. "I'm right! The twins aren't helping Gryffindor, they're just being cruel to the Slytherins."

"Why do you even care about them?" Harry rubbed his forehead.

"Did you honestly enjoy watching Malfoy in tears?" Hermione demanded.

"Well… Only at first…" Harry admitted slowly. "But I don't see the need to turn the twins in for it. Malfoy just needs thicker skin, I mean, he has said and done worse things."

"That's not the point," Hermione said. "The point is that the twins aren't accomplishing their 'goal', and as a result of that, their pranks are just cruel. Honestly, playing a couple of pranks a month is alright, but in the last two days, they've played over a dozen. And you know what the worst part is?"

"No, but you're no doubt about to tell us," Ginny sighed, making Harry snigger a little. She really does love her rants, doesn't she?

"The worst part is that the Professors know who is behind these pranks," Hermione laughed scathingly. "Everyone knows who's behind this insanity, and yet, the twins are still not being punished. It's absurd!"

"Hermione, it's got nothing to do with us," Neville said. "And although I agree with you somewhat, I don't want to turn in my own friends." Hermione blinked at that. "Yeah, Hermione… The twins are your friends, and you're threatening to turn them in. You've never even considered turning in the Slytherins for all the terrible things that they say and do, but you're willing to turn in your fellow Gryffindors."

"We should be better than the Slytherins," Hermione told Neville. "I don't tell on the Slytherins because most of them are bigoted morons who will just keep at it anyway."

"Turning the twins in won't be much different," Neville countered. "If anything, it will just make things worse."

"He's right," Ginny said. "The House will turn on you for doing something like that to the twins, especially when people realize that you did it to protect the Slytherins." Plus, you're already not very popular, while the twins are adored. Even the other Houses might jump at the chance to come after you.

"I… I don't care," Hermione said stubbornly, and all of them rubbed their foreheads. "I'm sorry, but I know that I'm right here."

"We're not denying that," Harry frowned, he hated when she got like this. "We're just asking you to not turn in our friends."

"I won't turn them in," Hermione said, and they all relaxed a bit. "I'll just give Professor McGonagall a hint." Shite.

"Let's make a compromise instead," Neville said, he could see that Harry was getting annoyed. "Instead of turning the twins in, we get them to stop."

"That's a neat plan," Ginny smiled. "After we accomplish that, do you want to cure World Hunger?" The twins don't listen to anyone but each other. "You'll never get them to back off… Except…" Hold on a second, I've got something.

"Ginny?" Harry looked to her. "What is it?"

"Shhh," Ginny shushed him, a plan was currently gestating in her mind. "I might be able to change the twins' hive mind…"

"How?" Hermione asked.

"By appealing to their common sense," Ginny replied, and then she turned around and began heading for Gryffindor Tower. It all comes down to money.

"Wait!" Hermione chased after her, while Neville and Harry chased after Hermione. "What's your plan? Tell me."

"Money," Ginny smiled at Hermione, who blinked at her. "The twins are the only ones in our Family who don't get an allowance. Mum forbid dad from giving them money, so they constantly scrape together as much as they can from various sources. If someone wants a prank done, they pay the twins-"

"They run a pranking business?" Hermione gasped.

"The twins secure money from various sources," Ginny said. "It's not a crime to turn your passion into a business, Hermione."

"But their passion is-"

"Wrong?" Ginny cut in, and Hermione didn't say anything. "I'm sorry, Hermione, but you don't get to decide what's right and wrong. The twins are arseholes more often than not, but at the end of the day, they love making people laugh. It's how they've always been."

"Ginny, the plan?" Harry asked, now she was ranting.

"Right," Ginny shook her head clear. "I'll talk to the twins, and I'll make sure to tell them that they're just wasting their money at this point. The Slytherins aren't retaliating, which means that their plan has already failed. Instead of wasting their money on getting more prank items, they should just go back to perfecting their many products."

"Products?" Neville asked. Damn, I shouldn't have said that.

"Don't tell anyone this, but the twins practice making their own joke items and Spells," Ginny told them. "They want to start a business, I think. A genuine business."

"Like Zonko's?" Neville asked, and Ginny nodded. "That's quite neat."

"They need their money," Ginny said as they all made their way up. "So, we remind them of that little fact. It might work because it's something that the twins can understand. Threats of tattling will just anger them, and they'll stubbornly persist with their pranks." Wow, I can't believe I managed to think of such a plan. I'm a genius!

"Ginny, this is really good," Harry smiled widely.

"It really is," Neville patted her back. "Good on you, Ginny."

"Do we all talk to the twins?" Hermione asked her.

"Um… Just me," Ginny said. "Sorry, Hermione, but they're not exactly happy with you."

"Fine," Hermione said a little coldly. "I'll just do something else in the meantime, then." Slightly passive aggressive, but that doesn't matter. I should think about what to say to the twins. I know that they'll never dare prank me, but the Trio are a different story.

As they neared the seventh floor, Neville and Harry started discussing their plans for the upcoming Gala. Ginny listened a bit to their conversation, but her mind was fixed on convincing the twins to stop their prank-war. Personally, Ginny didn't really care much for the Slytherins, but she did care about Hermione, who was adamant about stopping the twins. It was no secret that Hermione wasn't exactly well-liked in her previous schools, or even at Hogwarts, so Ginny understood why Hermione was so against bullying.

"Heart," Hermione said to the Fat-Lady, and the portrait slip open.

They all made their way inside, the warmth of the common room washing over them. People were laughing, playing games, hanging up their feet, or just enjoying the warmth of the fireplace. The twins sat in a corner on the far side of the common room, both of them sniggering with Lee Jordan. Their unspoken partner in crime.

"We'll be with Seamus and Dean," Harry told Ginny. "Find us after you're done."

"And I'll be in my room," Hermione added.

"You can join us for once, Hermione," Neville offered.

"I don't like Seamus very much," Hermione told Neville. "He's really rude."

"It's a part of his charm," Neville chuckled, and Hermione's lips twitched upwards.

"Some other time, I promise," Hermione said, and then she left for the girls' dorms.

Harry and Neville wished Ginny luck, and then they left to join their roommates. I can't believe I'm doing this… Damn you, Hermione. Ginny approached the twins and Lee, a resolute look on her face.

"I need to talk to you three," Ginny said with a firm voice, and all three boys cocked their eyebrows.

"Take a seat, beloved sister," George said, while Fred just stared at her. He's upset… Great. Now I feel bad as well.

"Are you three cooking up another prank?" Ginny asked as she sat down.

"Prank?" Lee asked her. "Why would we plan such a thing?"

"Don't be like that," Ginny smiled at him. "We're all on the same team."

"Are we now?" Fred asked. "So Hermione's changed her mind, then?"

"No," Ginny replied. "She's too stubborn to do that, but I've convinced her to not tattle on you."

"Right," George rolled his eyes. "What's the catch?"

"Stop the pranks," Ginny replied, and all three boys laughed at her. "I'm being serious here. Stop the pranks."

"Or what?" Lee asked.

"Or nothing," Ginny shrugged, and they waited for her to go on. "How much money have you three spent on this prank-war of yours?"

"Pardon?" George asked.

"How much money have you three spent on this prank-war of yours?" Ginny repeated slowly.

"Not that much," Fred replied, while Lee's expression told a different tale. "Alright… We've spent a fair bit, but so what?"

"So… You're wasting your money," Ginny told them. "The Slytherins have yet to lose even a single House-Point in retaliation, and so your plan isn't working. You're just wasting your money."

"Hardly," George said. "We get to try out our products on the snakes, which saves us the trouble of finding volunteers." Shite, I didn't even think of that. "Tell me something, Ginny dearest, why are you really here?"

"Don't try to be coy with us, we're smarter than you," Fred reminded her, and Ginny scratched her hidden scars under the table. So much for 'Confident Ginny'… Why am I the stupid one in our Family?

"Hermione will tell the Professors about you three, and then, you'll start targeting her," Ginny confessed, her posture deflating.

"As is our right," the twins said together, and Ginny looked down at the table.

"She's my friend," Ginny told them, and they just stared at her. "I don't have many of those…" Maybe I only managed to come up with this idea because I wanted to impress them, but Ron's right, I'll never be one of them. Just the fourth shadow…

Something shifted behind Fred's eyes, while Ginny felt wretched about herself once again. No matter what she tried, her brothers were her superiors in everything. Friends, popularity, academics, Quidditch, everything… The only thing of note that I've done is to get possessed…

"Lee, can you give us a minute?" Fred asked, and Lee left with a parting nod.

"Ginny?" George called, and she looked up from the table. "Do you want to tell us something?"

"No," Ginny replied, she didn't want them thinking ill of her. They'll call me insecure, or worse.

"Even if we do start pranking little Miss Would-be-Prefect, she wouldn't stop being your friend," Fred told Ginny, both twins knew that Ginny was struggling to make friends. After all, 'Team Weasley and Lovegood' were trying to help Ginny come out of her shell.

"It's not that," Ginny said defensively. "I just… I told them that I'd get you two to stop, okay… Look, your plan isn't working, and at this rate, even I can't help but think that you're going too far. I mean, how pranks have you two actually pulled in the last two days?"

"Twenty one," the twins said together. Sweet Circe… They've done that many without being caught?

"The Library is a hot-spot," Fred added.

"Twenty one pranks, and not one House Point lost," Ginny said, and the twins couldn't disagree with those numbers. "You could lose your products if you get caught, so why not just go back to willing test-subjects? Why target the Slytherins, who will no doubt tattle on you at some point?"

"It's a matter of dignity at this point," George sighed. "We thought that they'd retaliate, but we were wrong. Someone's told them to ignore us, and even hotheads like Flint are just taking it."

"Someone?" Ginny asked.

"Our little Ronnie, we think," Fred replied, and Ginny was a bit taken aback.

"They'd obey Ron like that?" Ginny asked.

"We don't know, which is why we're not sure," George replied. "Whoever it was, we can't let them win."

"So your pride is hurt," Ginny realized.

"Getting Slytherins into trouble is one of our favorite pastimes," Fred said. "But now, it's ruined."

"You're not trying to help Gryffindor anymore," Ginny said, and for some reason, that really bothered her. "You're just being nasty for the sake of being nasty."

"Nasty?" George asked. "Please tell me that you're going to call us bullies as well." As well?

"Are the Slytherins calling you two bullies?" Ginny asked.

"Ron called us bullies, which is pure tripe," Fred said with distaste.

"Hermione thinks the same, but I told her that you were trying to help the House," Ginny told them. "I stood up for you, but it turns out, I was wrong." I'm so fucking stupid… I can't even read people better than Hermione, which happens to be her weakest trait.

"Hermione needs to learn to have a laugh," Fred said, while George just stared at his little sister.

"Like Malfoy was having 'a laugh' today?" Ginny asked. "Congratulations you two, you actually managed to make me feel sorry for a Malfoy."

"Sorry?" Fred asked.

"Fred, enough," George said, and both Ginny and Fred blinked at him.

George leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Ginny's. Um… What's he doing? Ginny shrunk back a bit, she didn't like him staring at her like that. It's like he's trying to read my soul.

"Do you feel like we're bullying the Slytherins?" George asked her. "Answer me truthfully."

"Right now, yes…" Ginny admitted. "Twenty one pranks in two days, and not for some greater good… You're just going after them for fun, and you've crossed the line."

"I see," George said, while Fred frowned a little to himself. "Fred, no more pranks on the Slytherins, alright?"

"Agreed," Fred groaned, and Ginny was left genuinely baffled. What just happened? Did they do their weird 'twin mind' thing?

"Tell Hermione that we'll stop, Ginny," George smiled at her, which only confused her even more. "Tell her that you talked us out of it." Really? I did? I did!

"You'll really stop?" Ginny asked just to be sure.

"We'll stop," the twins replied together.

"You made some good points, little sister," Fred said reluctantly.

"And we're not bullies," George told her. "Now, be on your way."

Ginny quickly left before they could change their minds, and she found herself waiting by the girls' dorms entrance. She looked to Harry and Neville, and then up towards the dorms. Who do I tell first? She wanted to tell Harry, but since she had regained her footing, she decided to tell him after Hermione. She'll be so happy to hear this!

Wednesday 25th November, 1993 (The Great Hall – Nearly End of Dinner)

Hermione had been so proud of Ginny, but that pride had turned into righteous anger when they all reached the Great Hall. A majority of the Ravenclaws, Hufflepuffs, and Gryffindors had started laughing at the sight of Malfoy, who had just avoided eye contact with everyone. Ron, as usual, sat by his side, and for once, Ginny didn't mind that. It was a testament to the twins' pranking skills that Ginny actually felt sorry for Malfoy.

As for the twins, they were clearly keeping their word to Ginny. Not a single incident had occurred during dinner, much to the Slytherins' shock. Even some of the Gryffindors were shocked, but most of them were just disappointed. They had all come to dinner expecting entertainment, but tonight's dinner was just the usual affair.

"Quick, they're heading out," Hermione said, and they all followed after her. She really wants to tell Ron that we've stopped the pranks, doesn't she?

The four of them quickly made their way past their fellow students, and they caught up to Ron and his friends in the Entrance Hall. Each and every Slytherin looked suspicious, and they all seemed to have their eyes peeled for danger.

"Ron, can you spare a minute?" Neville called out, and Ron's gang stopped immediately.

"Neville," Ron turned around with a smile, his eyes didn't leave Neville for a second. "What can I do for you?"

"We just need to tell you something," Neville smiled back. "It's really important."

"Ron," Zabini cut in, and then he started whispering in Ron's ear. What's he saying?

"It's not a trap," Hermione told them all. "We would never do something like that."

"Your actions in the past suggest otherwise, Granger," Greengrass pointed out. Ugh… What does Ron see in this bimbo? I can't wait for Hermione to thrash her in their Duel.

"It's alright," Ron spoke up, and then he gave Zabini a meaningful look.

"Your call," Zabini said indifferently, and then he turned around and began heading for the Dungeons. "Let's go, you lot. Ron will catch up to us."

"Courtyard?" Ron asked Neville, while his friends left for the Slytherin common room.

"Sure," Neville nodded, and they all made their way out.

There was no denying that something felt off about this whole affair. Hermione and Harry had gone far too quiet, which only furthered Ginny's suspicions about them all being at odds. Not to mention that Ron's only addressing Neville. He hasn't even looked in my direction at all. That thought annoyed Ginny greatly, but she decided not to say anything. Right now, we just need to tell him that we've saved the Slytherins. That'll show him not to underestimate us.

"Alright, what did you want to talk about, Neville?" Ron asked as they reached the Courtyard. "Please be quick about it, it's cold out here."

"Well…" Neville looked to Ginny, who drew in a deep breath.

"I convinced the twins to stop the pranks against the Slytherins," Ginny told her brother, who just blinked at her.

"You did?" Ron asked.

"Hermione wanted to stop them by turning them in, but we all came up with a different plan," Ginny replied.

"Actually, Ginny came up with the plan on her own," Harry spoke up, but one cold look from Ron shut him up. What was that? Did he just silence Harry with a look?

"So you two really are fighting," Ginny looked between Harry and Ron, a slight frown on her face. And Ron seems to have the upper hand somehow.

"Tell me more about the twins," Ron said, completely ignoring Ginny's statement. "Why should I believe you?"

"Because I'm your sister?" Ginny suggested scathingly.

"So you do remember that little fact," Ron said coldly, an indifferent look on his face.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ginny demanded, why did he infuriate her so much? Because he doesn't even talk like Ronnie anymore! There's not a hint of happiness around him! This is not him!

"We're veering off topic," Neville jumped in. "Look, the twins have agreed to stop wasting their resources on the Slytherins. Their plans failed, and Ginny showed them that." Hardly, they just decided to stop for some unknown reason. "The 'prank-war' is over, Ron, and that's all that matters."

"I see," Ron said, something shifting behind his eyes. "Thank you, Ginny. I appreciate your help."

"Right…" Ginny said slowly, something was off here. I can feel it. He doesn't look pleased at all.

"So I have your word about the twins?" Ron looked to Neville. "They'll really stop?"

"They already have," Ginny replied for them all. "They didn't play a single joke during tonight's dinner."

"Good," Ron gave a curt nod. "Thank you again, I'll let the Slytherins know." You could smile, you know. We went out of our way to help you, after all.

And just like that, Ron walked right past them all and disappeared into the castle.

"Was it just me, or did he look… unhappy?" Harry asked.

"Harry, that's silly," Hermione said. "He was probably just surprised that the twins agreed to stop."

"And he looked unhappy because that's just how he is now," Ginny huffed. "Lord Weasley feels no need to smile at us plebs." One day, he's going to regret the way he behaves around his own kin.

Ronald Weasley's POV

Wednesday 25th November, 1993 (Slytherin Common Room – After Dinner)

He had half a mind to slap all four Gryffindors… Even when they were trying to help him, all they managed to accomplish was to get in his way. The twins' pranks had united Slytherin, but now that unity was in jeopardy. It was quite laughable that Ron, and the Triumvirate, were relying on the twins' mean-streak to keep their House from infighting.

Without the twins' pressure, Slytherin would go back to being without purpose. Not to mention that Ron didn't want to let the twins off easy this time. Over the last two days, Ron had come to multiple realizations. He wanted to punish the twins. By getting them into trouble, Ron could take care of multiple issues at once.

Firstly, the twins needed to be taught a lesson. They needed to understand that Ron was not a person that you could fuck with. Secondly, Ron wanted to damage Gryffindor's Hourglass. If the twins were caught with a barrel of alcohol, Gryffindor would lose a vast amount of House Points. Thirdly, the twins' actions would damage Gryffindor's unearned reputation of being the House of the Brave. Ron wanted the other Houses to see that Gryffindor wasn't exactly perfect, and that shitty people existed in each House. And lastly, Ron had realized that if the twins were caught with alcohol, they would not be allowed to attend the Gala.

The last realization was the most important one to Ron. Despite them being his kin, Ron didn't trust them to behave at this Gala. He refused to let the twins embarrass the Weasley Name with their idiocy. This Gala was the Weasley Family's reintroduction into High Society, and a pair of idiots weren't going to ruin that. Not while Ron had anything to say about it. I should never have invited them. Fuck, one mistake after another.

Ron entered his room and shut the door, his eyes spotting his friends playing a game of Wizard's Poker. Malfoy was sitting on his bed with a distant look, and Ron decided to leave him be for now. I asked the Headmaster to take it easy on him… I need to speak to the old man.

"Ron," Daphne smiled at him. "Come and sit with me, we're just about to start."

"Actually, the game will have to wait," Ron told them.

"What happened with the Gryffindors this time?" Theo sighed out. "Did they do something stupid?"

"Worse… They did something noble," Ron leaned against the door.

"That is worse," Blaise put his cards down. "Well? What happened?"

"They convinced the twins to stop their prank-war," Ron said, and even Malfoy looked in his direction.

"Um… What?" Tracey blinked.

"The twins are going to leave us alone," Ron clarified. "No more pranks, no more jeering, and no more problems."

"Isn't that a good thing?" Millie asked. "The last two days have been horrid."

"This is bad," Theo spoke to himself, and Ron nodded along. He gets it.

"This is really bad," Pansy swallowed thickly. She gets it as well.

"Why is it so bad?" Tracey asked them.

"Right now, the House is united against the twins," Ron replied. "There is no infighting whatsoever because we all share a common enemy, and a common goal. Take that away, and we'll go back to bickering again. Not to mention what this means for us. I mean, I convinced the House to go into hiding, and then we convinced the House to put up with the pranks."

"People are going to be pissed when they find out that there is no retaliation," Theo took over. "Ron's right about this, people need to see the twins pay. And we promised as much."

"Think of it this way, Trace," Ron said. "You spend an entire game of Chess being outsmarted, but eventually, you start making a comeback. And just as you're about to topple the enemy's king, they surrender."

"It would be anticlimactic," Tracey realized. "Damn…"

"All those pranks that we suffered through in silence will have been for nothing," Daphne rubbed her forehead. "Ron, I really don't like your sister."

"She meant well," Ron said a little too defensively. "But yes… They've just fucked us."

"Can they be trusted?" Malfoy asked Ron. "What if they're just lying to you?" At least he's talking now. Poor bastard, he's had a horrible day.

"Say what you will about Potter and his lot, but they aren't exactly evil masterminds," Millie replied for Ron. "The twins, however…"

"They wouldn't lie to Ginny," Ron told them. After all, we're all still trying to help her get back on her feet. "Plus, there were no pranks tonight, remember?"

"Dinner was just as usual," Pansy said. "What are we going to do about this, Ron? The Triumvirate have put their faith in you and Tracey… The whole House has."

"I knew that public speech was a mistake," Tracey frowned at Ron. "Thanks, mate. You've done me in as well."

"Sorry," Ron gave a sheepish smile.

"What if the pranks didn't stop?" Theo asked, and everyone looked to him. "What if the pranks kept happening? Only a handful of people know about the twins backing off, right?"

"What are you getting at?" Blaise asked. "You want to goad the twins?"

"Not at all," Theo replied. "I'm suggesting that we keep the pranks alive, but let the twins take credit for them."

"Go on," Ron cocked an eyebrow.

"We pull a couple of big pranks on our fellow House-mates tomorrow, and in doing so, keep the House united against the twins," Theo said. "The twins will deny it, of course, but that's not good enough. People expect them to prank the Slytherins, and so they'll just figure that the twins are lying."

"But it's us who are pranking the Slytherins," Tracey said, and Theo gave her a nod. "I don't know how I feel about that… These are our House-mates, Theo."

"Most of them are pricks," Blaise said coldly. "I'm with Theo already. It's better if the twins pay for their dozens of pranks instead of us."

Tracey looked around the room, and then she let out a sigh.

"Guess I'm outvoted, then," Tracey said, and Pansy rubbed her back with a sorry look. "Keep going, Theo."

"After our pranks, Tracey can tell Carey that it's time," Theo went on. "Carey speaks to Percy Weasley, while Ron gets the barrel into the twins' room. Percy goes over to their room, finds the barrel, gets McGonagall involved, and Carey urges that the twins' contraband be taken away. Not only will the twins pay for their actions, but the House will stay united in victory. We save our face, and things go on as normal." And I get to keep the twins away from the Gala.

"Ron, what do you think?" Daphne asked, and Ron found himself at a fork in the road. They're my brothers… But… I gave them an out, and they spat on my face. Not once, but twice. The only downside to all of this is that Ginny will be hurt. But she'll blame the twins, not me. That… could work for me. I could play the wounded brother, and she might come back around. If I play this right, Ginny might even apologize for her behavior.

"Ron? What are you scheming?" Blaise asked.

"We're doing this," Ron stood up to his full-height. "Let's plan a couple of pranks, and get things into order."

"First things first," Daphne started. "When is Carey supposed to talk to Percy? The twins can't be in Gryffindor Tower when Percy snoops around their room."

"Lunch?" Blaise asked.

"Dinner might be better," Malfoy suggested. "The Prefects roam the school together during the evening hours."

"But they have schedules for that," Pansy countered.

"Ductu can just approach Weasley, can't she?" Malfoy asked. "While everyone is at dinner, Weasley does exactly what we want him to. He then gets McGonagall involved before the twins even realize that something's wrong."

"And we'll all be at dinner, so the twins can't pin the blame on us," Tracey nodded her agreement.

"They'll never tattle," Ron told them. "The twins will do their best to prove their innocence, but they won't throw someone else under the bus. It's not their way."

"So we have our time," Blaise said. "What about the pranks?"

"I already have a couple of ideas," Tracey replied, she still looked a bit unsure. "We'll also need to fall victim to these pranks though, just to avoid suspicion."

"Let's hear it," Ron said, he was eager to achieve his own ends.

Thursday 26th November, 1993 (The Great Hall – Breakfast)

"I don't see why I couldn't pretend to be sick," Daphne pouted at him, and Ron smiled widely.

"Because we all have to suffer," Ron chuckled, and Daphne narrowed her eyes on him.

"You're having too much fun," Daphne huffed in indignation.

"True," Ron admitted, and then he put his left hand on the table.

Daphne reached across and took his hand in hers, her pout disappearing. They were both currently sitting on the far end of the Slytherin table, the group had split up in order to cover the entire Slytherin space. Millie and Theo sat with their second years, pretending to lecture them about House Politics. Pansy, Blaise, Malfoy, and Tracey sat with the first years, no doubt doing the same as Theo and Millie. Ron and Daphne were pretending to have a lovesick conversation far from any distractions.

"Is it in place?" Daphne whispered, and Ron gave her a nod.

"Everything is ready," Ron gave her a wink, and she drew in a deep breath. "What are you doing?"

"I'm holding my breath," Daphne replied, and Ron grinned. "Stop that, Ron… You'll make me laugh."

Any minute now, they were going to detonate three Dung Bombs, given to them by Tracey, and the entire Slytherin table was going to smell like shite for the whole day. It was worse than anything that the twins had pulled so far, but Tracey wanted to make up for the peaceful dinner last night. That, and she wants to let loose for once.

"If I vomit, I'll be aiming for you," Daphne told him. "Do you understand?"

"Why must you do these things to me?" Ron sniggered. "All I do is shower you with love, and this is how you repay me."

"You should be honored, Ron," Daphne smirked. "I've never done something like this to a boy before."

"I'll pass," Ron said, and then he shot a look towards Tracey, who was on the far end of the table.

She gave him a nod, and Ron looked back to Daphne. Time to set them off, I guess. Merlin, I'm nervous and excited at the same time.

"Sweet Circe…" Daphne sighed, and then she held her breath.

Ron flicked his wand under the table, and the Dung Bomb exploded beneath his legs. Tracey and Theo set off their respective Dung Bombs right after Ron, and the Great Hall was silenced by the loud booming noise, which was followed by a loud hiss as the Dung Bombs released their fumes.

The entire Slytherin student body let out loud shrieks and yells, all of them shooting out of their seats. Ron pocketed his wand as he too shot out of his seat, the pungent smell made his nostril burn painfully. Daphne was already gagging, so Ron quickly moved around the table and took a hold of her shoulders. He began guiding her out of the Great Hall right after, while the other Slytherins did the same. He could hear the Professors demanding for silence, while the other Houses laughed their arses off at the 'twins' latest prank'.

"I'm going to vomit…" Daphne gagged, and Ron felt a strong pang of guilt. "Courtyard…"

Ron made sure to shoot a glare towards the twins on his way out, and they stared back at him with bewildered looks. I've got you two now.

Ron guided Daphne out into the Courtyard, and as soon as they reached their destination, she all but projectile vomited all over the cobbled ground. Shite! Ron tried to hold back her hair, but she gagged violently and kept vomiting. Ew! Oh no… Ron gagged a little himself, but he managed to hold in his breakfast.

"I'm really sorry," Ron apologized.

"I… I hate you…" Daphne breathed out, her stomach heaving. Yeah, I deserve that.

"Ron?!" came Ginny's voice, and Ron readied himself. Showtime.

"You?!" Ron turned around with a glare, and Ginny stopped mid-approach.

Behind her were the Golden Trio, all of whom had their eyes fixed on Daphne.

"You four are so clever, aren't you?!" Ron snapped, making them flinch. Be more dramatic, Ron. "You got me! You're so fucking clever!"

"Ron…" Ginny whimpered. "I didn't-"

"You tricked me into telling the Slytherins that we were safe, and so we all let our guards down!" Ron accused scathingly, his angry glare washing over them. "You got me! Now I look like a fool in front of my entire House! Is that what you wanted, Ginny?! For 'Lord Weasley' to look stupid?!"

"No!" Ginny denied in a panicked voice. "Ron, I didn't know-"

"Good on you, Ginny," Ron spat out. "Good on you for outsmarting your snake brother…"

"Ron, she tried to help you," Hermione spoke up, her eyes still fixed on Daphne and her mess. Yes, get riled up and tattle on the twins. They'll mete out justice on my behalf. One Spell, several birds.

"The twins promised her that they'd stop," Neville added, he looked quite disturbed.

"Is that what they did?" Ron laughed coldly. "They outsmarted you! You imbeciles! Fuck! I'm the real idiot here for believing you!" Ron then took a hold of Daphne, and began guiding her back inside. "Stay away from me!"

"No! No, Ron!" Ginny called out, she sounded genuinely pained. "I wasn't trying anything, I swear!"

"Save it," Ron hissed as he disappeared into the Entrance Hall. That went well.

"Nice… acting…" Daphne coughed. "Ew… I've got vomit on me…"

"Sorry, Daph," Ron said gently.

"It's alright," Daphne sighed out. "The plan worked, and you also got what you wanted. Thanks for telling me, by the way." Sarcasm?

"Sorry, I should've told you that I planned to guilt Ginny," Ron apologized. "And to get the twins to turn on the Trio."

"It's alright… You seized an opportunity to get them all back," Daphne said. "I'm happy for you, and also quite proud."

"Thanks."

Percy Weasley's POV

Thursday 26th November, 1993 (The Entrance Hall – Dinnertime)

The twins were behind these pranks, and everyone knew it. Percy had gone straight to Professor McGonagall the moment this madness had started, but instead of punishing the twins, she had asked him to gather evidence first. Percy understood the need for procedures, but Merlin help him, he just wanted to shut the twins down for good.

His own two brothers were the reason why he wasn't respected. Percy was Head Boy, and before that, he had been a Prefect. He had earned twelve O. W. Ls without the use of a Ministry provided Time-Turner, despite the Headmaster's insistence. He was at the top of his class, and although he wasn't exactly built for Dueling, his vast knowledge on Spells easily made him one of the strongest A-ranks.

But despite all of these accomplishments, Percy was disregarded by even the youngest of the Gryffindors. They sneered and booed at him whenever he told them to do something, or worse, they outright ignored him. And it was all because of the twins. His brothers constantly ridiculed him, made fun of his quirks, laughed in the face of his authority, and passionately urged their House-mates to reject Percy.

Was it fair to hate one's own kin? If not, then Percy was an unfair person. He hated the twins. He hated their smug grins, their lack of respect, and their need to turn everyone around them into clowns. Even before he started Hogwarts, he despised the twins. He despised the power that they held within the Family.

For as long as Percy could remember, he was the weak link of the Family. And sure, his mother always proclaimed that he was her favorite, but that was often just her way of keeping the others inline. Whenever she stated that Percy was her favorite, she actually meant that the others needed to behave like Percy. Her words always brought trouble with them, mostly because Ginny would start sulking and the twins would start targeting him. Percy simply couldn't wait to get away from his Family. Except for dad, Ron, and Bill.

"I see that my message reached you," came Carey's voice, and Percy looked to see her stepping into the Entrance Hall.

As usual, she had that smooth smile on her face, and an air of confidence swirling around her. I bet her House respects her. I bet that when she speaks, people listen with rapt attention.

"It did," Percy said, he could hear the other students in the Great Hall. "What do you want, Carey?"

"Tsk, tsk," Carey walked up to his side. "That's no way to talk to your colleagues, Percy."

"Sorry," Percy said coldly. "I'm just… not myself… right now."

"I can see that," Carey looked him up and down, her gaze made him slightly uncomfortable. Why does she keep flirting with me? Before this year started, we barely even acknowledged each other.

"What did you want to talk about?" Percy turned to face her.

"All business and no play," Carey said smoothly, her smile still in place. "You really should let me give you a massage, Percy. I've been told that I have the hands for it." She then took a step closer. "Or you can give me a massage, if you want. You look like you have strong hands, and my shoulders are aching from all of our responsibilities."

"Tempting, but no," Percy dismissed her, but for some reason, her smile only widened. "Talk, or I'll leave."

"Then by all means, be on your way," Carey hummed, and without hesitation, Percy turned to leave. People just love wasting my time, don't they? "I had thought that you'd be interested in stopping your horrible brothers, but I guess I was wrong."

Percy stopped mid-stride, and he quickly turned to face her. Stopping my horrible brothers?

"Did that get your attention?" Carey asked, and then she beckoned him to come back. Damn.

Percy slowly approached her, he definitely wanted to hear her out now. If she has something on the twins, then I need to know. I mean, it's her House that they're targeting, right? That makes us natural allies.

"What do you know about the twins?" Percy asked her. "Why are they targeting the Slytherins?"

"You don't know?" Carey asked.

"They are careful around me, and my House-mates help them stay hidden," Percy replied, there was clear bitterness in his voice. I think Hermione wanted to tell me something, but Harry and Neville kept stopping her. Also, why was Ginny glaring murder at the twins all day? I'm so out of the loop on everything, and I hate it.

"Well, I only have rumors," Carey told him.

"I'll take what I can get," Percy said, making sure to hide his eagerness.

"And what are you willing to pay for my words?" Carey asked, her finger caressing the side of his arm.

"You're Head Girl," Percy reminded her, but she just chuckled at his words. "It's your sworn duty to help me stop troublemakers."

"It's a good thing that you're cute," Carey smiled like a Cheshire cat, and Percy blinked at her. Cute? No one has ever called me cute. I'm not cute. "What about a massage? I tell you what I know, and you give me a nice massage the next time we're in our cramped little Office."

"I have a girlfriend," Percy said.

"It's just a massage, Percy," Carey said, her eyes fixed on his. "Nothing inappropriate, I promise." I doubt that. "Don't you want the twins to finally be caught? You're intelligent, Percy, so I know that you can use my information to finally put them in their place."

"I…" Percy started, but then he stopped. "One massage."

"Thirty minutes," Carey whispered seductively.

"Thirty minutes?" Percy frowned. "I don't have that much time to waste."

"It won't be a waste," Carey promised. "Do we have a deal?"

"Fine…" Percy all but snarled. "This better be good, Carey."

"It is," Carey assured him. "As you know, your brothers are constantly pranking us Slytherins. As a result, we have our ears peeled for any information regarding the twins. And today, I heard something a little too… repulsive… for my tastes."

"Repulsive?" Percy cocked an eyebrow. The twins are indeed repulsive.

"I hear that Gryffindor is quite happy about Professor Snape's accident," Carey said. "Is that true?" Percy didn't say anything, and she understood the meaning behind his silence. "Shame on all of you."

"Don't lump me in with them," Percy said, he was a bit taken aback by her sudden seriousness. "I happen to be the only Gryffindor who respects Professor Snape. Now tell me about the twins."

"So impatient," Carey suddenly went back to her usual demeanor, which once again threw him off. "Your brothers are planning a party to celebrate Professor Snape's absence."

"What?" Percy asked. "The twins wouldn't do that. Firstly, they don't have the funds. And secondly, not even they'd go that far."

"Are you sure?" Carey asked. "Are you truly sure of that, Percy? Explain these pranks to me then."

"It's what they do…" Percy replied, his voice showing his uncertainty.

"They're taking advantage of Professor Snape's absence," Carey told him, her expression darkening. "They know that no one will punish them now that Professor Snape isn't here to stand up for us Slytherins. And they're right… Not a single Professor has stepped forward for us."

"They're investigating-"

"They are doing nothing of the sort," she cut him off. "They are waiting for the twins to slip up, but we both know that that will never happen." She's right… Even Professor McGonagall isn't stepping forward. She's completely distracted by something else, even I can see that. "Listen to me, Percy. I heard that the twins are planning a party of some sort, and at this party, they will provide alcohol."

"Alcohol?" Percy frowned deeply.

"To minors," Carey added, and Percy's frown deepened. They've never done this kind of thing before. "They are planning this right underneath your nose. Tell me, what happens if someone else catches them before you do?" I'll look like the biggest fool in Gryffindor.

"Where did you hear this?" Percy asked, he had to be sure.

"I'm not going to give you my source, but I will say this," Carey stepped right in front of him. "The twins underestimate you because you let red-tapes hold you back, Percy. If I was you, I'd tear their room apart for evidence, and then have them punished for their constant rule breaking. I'd take away their toys, and I'd pin them under my heel."

"But you're not me," Percy stated, and she took a step back.

"True, I don't have access to Gryffindor Tower," Carey said smoothly. "But you do."

With that, she walked right past him and entered the Great Hall. Percy stood in his spot for a few moments, and then he looked to the Moving Staircase. What if she's right? What if they are planning to provide alcohol to minors? The thought turned Percy's stomach, because if this was true, then the other Gryffindors had hidden this from him. Carey heard about it before I did… I'll lose my Head Boy Badge if someone else turns them in.

Twenty Minutes Later

He was absolutely livid! In all of his years, Percy had never felt like such a fool! Carey Ductu, a Slytherin, knew more about the happenings of Gryffindor than he did. Percy was not fit to be Head Boy, and it was all the twins' fault.

In the end, he had given into Carey's words, and made his way into Gryffindor Tower. While his House-mates dined, he searched the twins' room for evidence of their crimes. And just as Carey had said, he found a barrel of alcohol hidden behind Fred's night stand. If he hadn't been so through, he would've completely missed it.

Percy had half a mind to barge into the Great Hall in order to grab the twins by their ears before throwing them at Professor McGonagall's feet. They had gone too far this time, and Percy wanted to make them hurt… Just as they made him hurt from the moment they showed up in Hogwarts.

And yet, he had managed to pull his wrath back. Instead of making a scene, and embarrassing all of Gryffindor in the process, he had sent an Elf to fetch Professor McGonagall. Despite being disregarded by most, Percy had the respect of the Hogwarts Elves. They valued his position, and he in turn respected the work that they did for all of Hogwarts. Sure, it was their job to serve, but at least they were kind to him. Unlike most people.

"Percy?" came McGonagall's voice, and he looked to see her entering the room. "What is the meaning of this? An Elf told me that you wished to speak to me in the fifth year boys' dorm."

"Professor McGonagall, I found you the evidence that you wanted," Percy said, making sure to straighten his back.

"Evidence?" McGonagall asked, her expression stern as always.

"That barrel right there," Percy pointed to it. "It's filled with some sort of cocktail."

"Percy, explain everything," McGonagall demanded. "Why are you breaking into other people's rooms? You don't have the authority to do that, despite your position of Head Boy." I know, but Carey is right. Red-tape was protecting the twins, and I'm sick of letting them beat me.

"I heard rumors of the twins planning a party of some sort," Percy lied, deciding to keep Carey out of this. Why else would she come to me?

"Party?" McGonagall asked.

"To celebrate Professor Snape's accident," Percy frowned, and much to his shock, he saw her stern mask crack a little.

"What?" she asked in a cold whisper, and Percy felt slightly intimidated. Um… What is this?

"Ahem," Percy cleared his throat. "The twins are behind the pranks, Professor. It's their way of celebrating Professor Snape's absence, and these pranks are no doubt leading up to this party."

"And this slipped past you?" McGonagall asked.

"With all due respect, Professor, I did come to you immediately," Percy stood his ground, he was too angry to take the blame for this. "You sent me out to find evidence, despite my claims of the twins' resourcefulness. But as you can clearly see, I caught onto them in time."

"This is unbelievable," McGonagall frowned at the barrel, and the school bell went off. Dinner's over. They're all coming up here. "The twins have never shown this level of… disrespect… before."

"I'm also quite shocked by this," Percy agreed with her. "But the evidence is right here, Professor. I didn't want to believe the rumors, but now I can't deny the truth behind them."

"Who told you these rumors?" McGonagall asked.

"My source doesn't want to step forward," Percy lied, using some of Carey's words. "They're scared of the twins, and rightly so."

"Was it Ms. Granger?" McGonagall asked, and Percy blinked at her. "She's been trying to talk to me, but Mr. Potter and Mr. Longbottom keep stopping her. I just thought that they were being foolish."

"It's not her, but she's been trying to speak out against the twins," Percy told her. "Professor, I urge you to take their joke items away. Their trunks are no doubt filled with them."

"I will be taking away more than just their toys, Percy, I assure you," McGonagall said darkly, and then she approached the barrel.

She waved her wand over it, and then she eyed the tap at the bottom of the barrel. With a flick of her wand, she made the tap turn. Some of the cocktail poured out, but instead of spilling onto the ground, the liquid floated in the air. Her expression darkened even more, and with a flick of her wand, she sent the alcohol back inside the barrel.

"I know this concoction," McGonagall frowned deeply. "It comes from the White Wyvern Pub."

"The Pub in Knockturn Alley?" Percy asked.

"The very same, Percy," McGonagall said. "Though I doubt your brothers went down there themselves."

"They ordered it," Percy assumed.

"Most likely," McGonagall looked to him. "And Lee Jordan? Was he a part of this?"

"I don't know, but I'd wager that he was," Percy replied. "I've seen him skulking around with the twins all throughout the week."

"Circe's mercy…" McGonagall drew in a deep breath, and then she regained her composure.

They heard the common room entrance open, and a wave of happy voices rang throughout the Tower. Percy and Professor McGonagall waited patiently for the twins and Lee Jordan, all three of whom walked into the room with puzzled looks on their faces. I've got you now.

"If not us, then who?" Lee Jordan was asking. "This makes no sense…"

"Hello, you three," McGonagall said coldly, and the three boys stopped mid-stride.

"Professor McGonagall," Fred smiled at her, and then he looked to Percy. "Brother dearest, what are-"

"Silence!" McGonagall shut them up, and even Percy flinched a bit. She's reached her limit with them. Finally. "Explain this!"

McGonagall aimed her wand at the barrel, and all three boys blinked at it. Percy had to give them props, they pulled off the innocent act quite well. They're used to lying, aren't they? It's what they do.

"Um… We don't know what that is," George told them.

"Never seen it before," Fred added.

"Really?" McGonagall asked. "We're going to play this game?"

"Professor… We don't know what you're talking about," Lee spoke up, he had shrunk behind the twins.

"Open your trunks this instant," McGonagall ordered. "Now!"

All three boys quickly did as they were told, and Percy glared at his brothers. They still have the audacity to act shocked? I'll owl mother and father right after this, and I'll make sure that these two are punished accordingly. This time, I'm the one who will win. After a minute or so, all three trunks were open.

"Percy," McGonagall said, and Percy quickly began to go through their trunks.

"This is an invasion of privacy," Fred started, but one look from McGonagall shut him up.

"Dung Bombs," Percy said as he pulled out joke item after joke item. "Like the ones used this morning."

"That wasn't us!" Lee denied.

"Red paint, gold confetti, Stink-Pellets, Hiccup Sweets, Frog Spawn Soap, fireworks," Percy listed as he pulled out item after item, he was truly enjoying this. I have them at my mercy for once. "What is this?"

"That's ours!" Fred hissed at him.

"Ah," Percy nodded slowly, and then he looked to McGonagall. "The twins make their own products, Professor. This is all contraband, if you ask me."

"What?" the twins gaped, while Lee Jordan closed his eyes.

"Take it all out," McGonagall ordered, her eyes fixed on the three boys.

"But we've never used it," George tried to argue.

"Do you intend to use it?" McGonagall asked, and George said nothing. "Take it all out, Percy. All of this is to be confiscated, and discarded."

"You're joking…" Fred muttered, he looked horrified. "We spent months… years… making that stuff. You can't do this…"

"Oh, I can," McGonagall told them. "You should thank your lucky stars that I'm not sending you home on suspension."

"What for?" George asked.

"We know that it's been you who's been pranking the Slytherins," Percy told them. "And you did it because you wanted to take advantage of Professor Snape's absence."

"Is that true?" McGonagall asked, her voice almost bitter. "Do not lie to me, or there will be even more dire consequences."

"It's not true," the twins lied.

"Very well," McGonagall frowned, she knew a lie when she heard one. "Percy, take everything that you consider contraband to my Office. I will destroy it tonight."

"Destroy it?" George glared at McGonagall, which took even Percy by surprise. "You can't do that! We spent years making those!"

"I'm sure you can do it again," McGonagall said. "Once you have left Hogwarts behind, that is. And since you three lied to me just then, you are suspended from Hogwarts until the end of the Yule Break." YES!

"We have O. W. Ls," Lee Jordan piped up, while Percy hid his eager grin.

"I will owl you the necessary assignments," McGonagall assured them. "Tomorrow morning, you will be going home via Floo. I will owl your parents, and tell them why I have suspended you. Now, follow me." McGonagall then looked to Percy. "Get rid of that barrel at once."

"Yes, Professor," Percy gave a firm nod, and McGonagall left the room without another word.

"You piece of shite…" Fred hissed at Percy, he had gone red from rage.

"Get out," Percy ordered. "If you keep her waiting, you'll only damage this House further."

"Let's go, you two," Lee dragged the twins out, even George looked murderous. I finally did it. I beat the twins. I'll give Carey the best massage that she's ever had!

Percy cleared his throat and refocused on his duty, he could hear McGonagall questioning his House-mates outside. Once he had all the items laid out, Percy called a House-Elf.

"Head Boy called Flippy?" Flippy bowed, and Percy perked up.

"Flippy, take all of these to Professor McGonagall's Office," Percy ordered, and then he looked to the barrel. "And take that barrel as well. Be careful with it, it's quite heavy."

"Flippy understands," Flippy nodded, and Percy left to follow after McGonagall.

As he entered the common room, he found McGonagall glaring at her students. Everyone was dead quiet, and no one had the courage to look at her when she was this displeased. The twins and Lee stood behind McGonagall, there was not a hint of smugness about them. For once, they knew that they were done for.

"Well?" McGonagall demanded. "Who else knew about this?"

No one said anything, not even the Prefects.

"Angelina?" Percy looked to her. "You're the fifth year Female Prefect, are you not? Did you know about the twins' plans?"

"I… No, not at all," she replied, and Percy frowned at her. Liar. She clings to the twins constantly, so how could she not know?

"You haven't seen them playing their pranks?" Percy asked, and she shook her head. You don't deserve your Badge.

"I see," McGonagall stared at everyone. "I am clearly the Head of the House of the mute." McGonagall looked back at the twins and Lee, her lips twitching downwards. "Fifty Points… from each of you." FIFTY EACH?!

"Professor!" multiple student called out, while the others looked like they had been hit with the Cruciatus.

"You can't do this to us!" Lavender cried out. "We're already so far behind!"

"Not another word!" McGonagall ordered, and everyone shut their mouths immediately. "To those who knew about this conspiracy, and still chose to stay quiet… You have shamed Gryffindor's good name, and you have embarrassed me in the process."

"What about Quidditch?" Oliver asked, and Percy frowned at him. Then there's this idiot… All he can think of is Quidditch. "The twins are-"

"Use the substitutes," McGonagall cut him off. "As far as I'm concerned, Gryffindor has proven that they don't deserve to win anything this year." Even Percy felt hurt by her words. After all, she was like their parent here. "I am deeply ashamed of all of you."

No one dared utter a word after that, not even Percy. He could already see people glaring in his direction, which wasn't at all surprising. The twins commit the crime, but I'm the one who gets their scorn for doing my duty. Popularity rules this school, and I'm so sick of it. I can't wait to get a job, and finally be free of these people.

McGonagall left the common room with a look of pain and disgust, which made the younger years extremely upset. The House remained quiet for almost a full minute, they all understood that Gryffindor was finished in the race for the House Cup.

"You…" Fred glared at him. "You fucking bastard!"

"Fred!" George quickly held his twin back.

"LOOK AT WHAT YOU'VE DONE!" Fred yelled at the top of his lungs, all the while struggling against George.

"Shut up!" Percy yelled, taking everyone by surprise. "Don't pin the blame on me! You did this! All of you!" Percy then looked to Angelina, who went wide-eyed. "I will be speaking to the Headmaster about your Prefectship, do you understand? I know for a fact that you knew about this, and you actively hid it from me."

"Fucking traitor!" Fred accused. "You set us up!"

"Set you up?" Percy looked to Fred like he was insane.

"That barrel of alcohol wasn't ours," Lee Jordan hissed. "You put it there!" They're still denying it? But not only that, but they're blaming me for it?

"You're pathetic," Percy sneered at the three boys. "You three really are the most pathetic people that I've ever met. Even after you just ruined this House, you're putting the blame on me." Percy then looked to everyone else, his eyes lingering on Hermione. "I know that you hide things like this from me… All of you do! If you had come clean early on, I could've stopped this from happening. But no! You chose to protect these three, and now we're undone."

"How could you turn in your own brothers?!" a voice demanded. "You got Fred, George, and Lee suspended!"

"What about the Quidditch Team?" Oliver growled at him. "Why would you do this?!"

"Because the Badge on my chest means something," Percy told them, and most of them looked at him with disgust. Stand by what you believe in, Percy. Fuck the lot of them. "You want to act like brats, then you'll be treated as brats." Percy then look to the three fuming boys. "Pack your bags."

Ronald Weasley's POV

Friday 27th November, 1993 (The Entrance Hall – Just before Breakfast)

"RON!" came Fred's yell, and Ron turned around just in time for his brother to grab him by the collar. The plan worked, I see.

Before even Ron knew it, seven wands were aimed at Fred's head. People around them stepped back, and Ron signaled his friends to lower their wands.

"Let him go," Millie snarled, while Ron just stared at Fred's face. "Let him go right now, or I'll Hex you in the face." Even Malfoy pulled his wand out. I'm touched.

His brother looked mad with rage, and for some reason, he was wearing casual clothes. Standing behind Fred were George and Lee Jordan, both of them looked equally pissed off with Ron. They're also wearing casual clothes… Odd.

"I know that it was you, you little shite," Fred hissed in Ron's face, some spittle coming out of his mouth. "You fucking cunt… You've gone too far this time…"

"What are you on about?" Ron asked, he could see that people were circling them.

"Don't lie!" Fred shook Ron, who resisted the urge to grin. "You put that barrel of alcohol in our room! I thought that it was Percy at first, but he doesn't have the balls to do something like that!"

"OI!" came Ginny voice. "LET HIM GO!"

"Stay back," George glared at her, much to her shock.

The older students were already getting hyped up for a sibling fight, while the younger students looked extremely worried for Ron. Ron's friends were still aiming their wands at Fred, who couldn't care less, while the Golden Trio were pushing past some of the crowd.

"Whatever you think I did, I didn't do it," Ron told Fred. "Let go of my robes."

"Fuck you," Fred hissed. "You got us suspended! We lost one hundred and fifty House Points because of you!" Really?! Fuck yes! Tracey, you beautiful witch!

"Drop your wands," Angelina Johnson ordered the Slytherins. "Fred, let go of him! You're making things worse for yourself!"

"I'm not dropping my wand because you said so, Johnson," Malfoy glared at her. "I remember you being there yesterday… Some Prefect…"

"Guys, lower your wands," Ron said calmingly, his eyes lingering on a furious Daphne. "Do it, alright? There's no need for violence."

"You smug shite," Fred laughed in a rage-induced manner. "I ought to beat the piss out of you for this. We just lost years of work because of you, and now we're suspended!" The suspension wasn't planned, but it's a fitting punishment.

"Draco, lower your wand," Ron said, deciding to ignore Fred. "Just do it, alright?"

Malfoy lowered his wand first, and the others slowly followed. As usual, Daphne was the last one to back off. She looks apoplectic… Yeesh. This is not how I expected my morning to go.

"I didn't do anything," Ron looked at Fred, not a hint of worry on his face. "I have no earthly idea about Gryffindor's problems. Now… Let me go, or I'll get upset."

"Ron, it's for the best that you keep your mouth shut," George advised him. "Fred, let him go. He's not worth it." Not worth it, eh? I'll show you what I'm worth.

"Yes, Fred, let me go," Ron said calmly, which only enraged Fred further. "Fine. I warned you."

Ron grabbed both of Fred's wrist, and he muttered 'Cutis Terra' under his breath. His entire body felt besieged by stone, and Ron knew that he could now tear off Fred's arms if he wanted to. With a focused mind, Ron began squeezing Fred's wrists. Be careful, Ron. Don't break them, just hurt him a little.

"Shite…" Fred's face morphed into a pained expression, and Ron kept squeezing until Fred was on his knees.

"Let him go!" Lee tried to step forward, but Blaise and Theo had their wands aimed on him instantly.

"Fucking… Shite…" Fred clenched his teeth, while Ron loomed over his brother. So weak.

"The next time you put your hands on me," Ron grinned at Fred. "I will rip off your cock, and ram it into George's arse. That way, you two will be forever together, eh?"

The crowd watched in stunned silence, but their excitement was written all over their faces. Ron understood why the Slytherins were pleased to see Ron dominating Fred, but the others were clearly just vultures who were starved for entertainment.

"Kick his arse, Ron!" Tori called out, and the Slytherins began cheering.

"What's going on here?" came Cedric's voice, and the handsome Hufflepuff barged through the crowd. "Ron?! Break that up right now!" Be quiet, bitch, or you'll be next.

Ron let go of Fred's wrists, but before his Spell could start becoming a strain on him, Ron seized his brother's throat. With his right arm alone, he lifted a choking Fred into the air. People gasped loudly, and even the Slytherins stopped cheering. Cedric, who was trying to move past George and Lee, stopped and gaped at Ron's abnormal strength.

"Take a good look, bitch," Ron grinned at George, while his own friends stepped away from him.

"Ron… Let him go…" Ginny muttered, he had never seen her look so shocked before.

Fred struggled about in the air, but with Ron's boosted strength, he could do little but wiggle about.

"Ron, stop," Daphne quickly whispered in his ear. "Let him go right now, Ron. Please." Why? I should throttle him right now. With all the misery that he's caused me, this is exactly what he deserves.

Ron let go of Fred, who flopped onto the floor and began wheezing for air. George and Lee were immediately at his side, while Ron fixed up his robes. The Spell broke, and Ron felt his muscles ache slightly. I held it too long. Oh well, at least I'm getting better at using it.

"Does anyone else plan to ruin my morning with insane babble?" Ron asked the crowd, none of whom answered him. "I'll take that as a no." Ron suddenly clapped his hands loudly and grinned even more, the plan had worked better than even Tracey had imagined. "Get the fuck inside and eat your breakfast! Or I'll get annoyed with you!" We win. We always win.

People slowly began to disperse, most of them looking thoroughly shocked and amused at the same time. After all, despite Ron's vulgar language, he had provided them with some morning entertainment. The Golden Trio, Ginny, George, Lee, Fred, Ron's friends, and Angelina stayed behind, while Cedric helped organize the crowd. Once the majority of the crowd was gone, Ron looked down at his brothers.

"Now… Do you mind explaining yourselves?" Ron asked, he had to keep pretending to be ignorant.

"You're the one who needs to explain himself," Angelina snapped. "Bloody psychopath!"

"I'm sorry, who are you?" Ron looked to her.

"I'm-"

"Wait… I don't care, shut the fuck up," Ron dismissed her, and her offended look pleased him greatly.

"Ten Points from-" she started, but then she stopped when she saw Cedric bring out the Headmaster.

"What is the meaning of this?" Dumbledore asked everyone in the Entrance Hall, behind him were McGonagall, Percy, and Carey.

"He strangled Fred, Headmaster," Angelina accused, while Ron just put his hands up in surrender.

"That's not the full story," Pansy stood up for Ron. "Ron was minding his own business, and then his brother showed up and took him by the neck."

"Ron only defended himself," Tracey added.

"Defended?" McGonagall looked down at Fred. "Percy, take your brother to the Hospital Wing. I'll send Madam Pomfrey."

McGonagall left for the Great Hall quickly, while Percy and George helped a coughing Fred up.

"Ronald, come with me," Dumbledore instructed, and then he began heading towards the Moving Staircase. I'm in for a lecture, no doubt. Damn, I'm pretty hungry.

"Save me some toast," Ron looked to Blaise, who gave him a curt nod.

With that, Ron began following the Headmaster out of the Entrance Hall. On the way, he made sure to frown at Ginny for her previous 'betrayal'. His little sister shrank away from his disapproving look, while Neville and Hermione avoided eye contact. Harry, however, was just staring at Ron with a furrowed brow. No, he's not one to look away from a fight, is he? You'll get yours, Harry, I promise.

The trip up to the Headmaster's Office was carried out in silence, and Dumbledore only spoke to give the password to the Stone Gargoyle. Ron was led up into the Office, and then told to sit down in his usual chair. Once Ron was seated, Dumbledore took his own seat across from him.

"Well?" Dumbledore asked. "Tell me what happened."

"I was entering the Great Hall, and Fred seized me by my robes," Ron replied truthfully. "He started babbling on about his suspension, and he accused me of some crime that I have no clue about."

"No clue, you say?" Dumbledore leaned back in his chair. "So you don't know that your brothers were planning to throw a party for Gryffindor? Or that they planned to provide alcohol to minors?"

"Not at all," Ron lied.

"Ronald…" Dumbledore sighed out. "I have not slept, and so, I have very little patience for this sort of behavior. Tell me the truth." Shite.

"The truth?" Ron lost his innocent demeanor. "Alright, here's the truth. You Professors are a bias lot, and I'm sick of your shite." Dumbledore blinked at him. "For the last three days, Slytherin has been viciously targeted by my brothers. All of you know who was to blame for these 'pranks', but not one of you lifted a finger to help us."

"We were waiting for evidence, Ronald," Dumbledore told him.

"Spare me your excuses," Ron waved a dismissive hand. "If you wanted evidence, then you could have easily procured it. I know for a fact that you aren't the simple old man that you pretend to be." Ron then drew in a deep breath. "You left us out to fend for ourselves, and this is the result."

"You would have your own brothers, and Lee, suspended?" Dumbledore asked. "Not to mention what you did to Fred."

"I gave him a wakeup call," Ron said coldly. "Although I want to keep them safe, I will not stand idly by while they blatantly disrespect me. Not anymore. The twins have treated me like their personal punching bag for years, but now I've reached my limit. With all of them. They can either get inline, or I'll break their knees."

"My boy, this is extreme," Dumbledore shook his head. "I had hoped that you would rise above such petty squabbles."

"I'm a petty person," Ron shrugged. "Just like Harry Potter."

"Harry?" Dumbledore asked. "You are still angry with him?"

"Still?" Ron laughed scathingly. "You might let him get away with murder, but I won't. He's a piece of shite, as are his degenerate friends. The 'Golden' Trio… I spit on them." Ron cracked his neck loudly, and his entire body relaxed. That's nice. "Let the twins be suspended, and don't you dare give them their Points back. I'm sick of your favoritism. People like you cause the rift between the Houses, and you're making my job harder than it needs to be."

"Where is this anger coming from, Ronald?" Dumbledore asked him.

"Why shouldn't I be angry?" Ron demanded. "I'm trying my best to prepare for a war, but I'm surrounded by idiotic cunts. All they want to do is to fuel drama, or to have confrontations, or they just want to piss me off. I mean, look at the twins. I begged them to stop their prank-war, and they laughed in my face. They made boasts about Professor Snape being unable to help us, and when I asked them to stop for me, they laughed even harder. And now, they're angry with me. Piss on that!"

"You call me petty, but you ignore the twats who constantly come after me," Ron told Dumbledore. "Your precious Boy-Who-Lived tried to turn my Family against me, and for what? What did I do to him? I'll tell you, he was jealous of me because you and I are friends. Seriously, what the fuck? I'm minding my own business, and some prick starts snooping through my life because he believe that I'm not good enough to be a Weasley. So why shouldn't I be angry?"

"Because those who wear their hearts on their sleeves do not survive long in war," Dumbledore told him.

"Unlike you, I haven't had a hundred years to practice Occlumency," Ron countered. "I'm thirteen, and yet, I do more for this World than most. But you know what I get in return? I get treated like shite by my Family. My House-mates turn on me whenever it suits them. I constantly have people telling me what to do, even when I know better. And people like you use me without giving me my dues."

"Ronald, I do respect you-"

"Do you?" Ron asked. "You don't really show it. Why is it that I feel like you'll drop me to save Harry Potter if it came down to it? Go on, deny that." Dumbledore said nothing, though he looked a little sorry. "I'm the extra, right? Fuck the lot of you. The only people who genuinely give a shite about me are my friends, and I'm done pretending otherwise. They're my real Family." It's them that I should be protecting, not Molly fucking Weasley. It's people like Priscilla that I need to go out of my way for. If I'm strong enough to help someone who is powerless, then that's what I'll do. That is my duty. If my Family can't understand that, then fuck them.

"I've reached my limit," Ron repeated, he was mostly speaking to himself at this point. "From now on, I don't care about people's angst, or their hurt feelings. I just don't care. You either help me, or you stay out of my way. My duty is to end the 'Lord of Serpents', and by Merlin, I'll do just that."

"There is more to life than war, Ronald," Dumbledore leaned forward.

"Not for me," Ron chuckled mirthlessly. "I have been at war since I was eight, and guess what, I'll die before I get out of it. My Brain-Damage, my Chronic Stress, the Death-Eaters, the Dark Lord, the Entity, the Higher Beings… I'm not going to survive them, and we both know it. I imagine that I'll be dead well before I'm even twenty."

"I…" Dumbledore started, but then he gave Ron a pitiful look. "Please, my boy, don't think like this."

"It's true though," Ron shrugged, and Dumbledore couldn't argue that. "I'm not scared, mind you."

"You're not?" Dumbledore asked.

"Why would I be?" Ron asked in return. "When I'm dead, I won't constantly feel this miserable. I'll be… free. Free from my burdens. Free from the Entity. Free from the people in my life."

"And what of your friends?" Dumbledore asked, this conversation had turned quite grim.

"They'll mourn, and then they'll move on," Ron replied. "Daphne won't take it well, but she'll be just out of Hogwarts… She'll have her entire life to find someone normal." Ron stood up at that, he didn't like thinking this way. Especially not out loud. "Send the twins home, and don't take away Slytherin's victory because you prefer the Gryffindors over us. If you do, I will never forget."

"I understand," Dumbledore gave a slow nod, he felt torn because of Ron's words. "Ronald, don't be so quick to give up on life. The night is always darkest before the dawn."

"I've waiting for the dawn since I was eight, and it's still nowhere to be found," Ron turned to leave. "Don't worry, I won't die until I've got everything planned out. This Cycle will not fail, that's a promise."

Friday 27th November, 1993 (Slytherin Common Room – After Classes)

As Ron and his friends made their way inside the common room, a wave of enthusiasm and glory washed over them. The Slytherins were laughing, patting each other's backs, and all around enjoying their hard earned victory. Unlike anything before, this victory was achieved by everyone in the House. They had all suffered in silence, and now they would celebrate as loudly as they could.

"This is neat," Blaise smirked, while the second years entered the common room from behind them.

"Is everyone here?!" Clara called out, a massive smile on her face.

"Here!" people called, while Ron and his friends made their way towards their usual spot.

"Quiet down, then!" Clara laughed, while Carey and Samantha talked behind her with happy smiles on their faces. "It's time for a speech!"

People clapped and cheered, and Ron found himself feeling hyped as well. My study group is on in twenty minutes, so why not enjoy the speech? Plus, I like this atmosphere. This is what being united looks like.

"When I first thought of this plan-" Clara started, and people began laughing. This witch!

"Sod off with that!" Septimus laughed loudly, and Clara broke into laughter herself.

"Alright, I'll be serious," Clara wheezed, gesturing for everyone to quiet down. "Firstly, let's thank Tracey Davis, and the third years, for their excellent plan!" People cheered and clapped loudly, and Ron nudged a grinning Tracey. "Secondly, let's pat each other's backs once again for staying true to each other! The last three days have been truly horrible, but we persevered!"

The students let out three cheers, and even Ron let out one cheer.

"The entire school was against us!" Clara reminded them, a manic look about her. "They laughed at us!" People booed loudly. "The Professors ignored our humiliation!"

"Fuck 'em!" Jack Hughes yelled, and people cheered him on.

"The twins terrorized us without mercy!" Clara went on. "We had no one standing up for us!" Clara then drew in a deep breath, a proud look on her face. "What did we have?"

"Each other!" multiple students called out, and she nodded approvingly.

"We had each other!" Clara announced. "And by Merlin, we fucking outmaneuvered them all!"

"Salazar would be proud!" Maria Cortez added, and Theo let out a loud whistle.

"Thank you, Theodore," Clara laughed, while he gave a happy shrug. "You have all made Slytherin proud, as Professor Snape would say." Yeah, he does say that. "Today, the twins were suspended from Hogwarts, as was their toad, Lee Jordan! Today, Gryffindor lost one hundred and fifty House Points, which has marked the end of their chances of winning the House-Cup!"

People cheered once again, but this time, it was much louder than before. Ron and his friends cheered with everyone else, with the exception of Malfoy, who wasn't even smiling. His head is somewhere else, and I can't blame him. Wait… Is he coming to the Gala? I don't think that it's wise, considering that Lucius Malfoy will be there.

"I know that we're all on top of the World right now!" Clara said, and the cheering died down. "But our fight isn't over just yet. We still have the Dueling Tournament coming up, and we need four of the six years to win. Martha Hopkirk is, sadly, quite badly outnumbered, but the rest of us still have a great chance! When Professor Snape returns to Hogwarts as our Head of House, we will show him our triumphs!"

"You're damn right we will!" Ron yelled, and people cheered and stomped their feet.

"We will show him that, in his honor, we stayed together, and we overcame our trials!" Clara roared. "We didn't let the other three Houses break our will! We honored Slytherin's traits to the letter! Determination! Cunning! Ambition! And most importantly, fraternity!" Clara then smiled in her usual, mischievous way. "That party that we promised is still on the table. You know that we have the materials needed, except for one barrel-" Students laughed loudly at that. "Ron, are you still covering that?"

"Of course," Ron gave her a smile, and she shot him a wink.

"One last push, and then we can spend the night partying until the sun rises!" Clara promised, and everyone looked thoroughly excited. "One last push! Can you do it?!"

"YES!" there was thunderous applause, accompanied with whistles and howls.

"Enjoy the win!" Clara laughed. "And then, onto the next!"

With that, the excited students went back to chatting with each other. Ron spotted Carey signaling him to come over, and so he gave her a nod.

"The Triumvirate want to talk to me," Ron told his friends, and then he beamed at Tracey. "Good on you, Trace."

"Our savior," Daphne kissed Tracey's cheek, making the slender girl snort.

"Just doing my part," Tracey smirked, sounding all too pleased with herself.

Ron's friends put their books down in order to relax before the study group, while Ron made his way over to the Triumvirate. Even Samantha looks genuinely happy, which is a sight to see.

"Ladies," Ron smiled at them.

"Come with us for a second," Carey gestured with her head, and Ron's smile turned into a grin.

"More scheming?" Ron asked, while Clara took his arm.

"No rest for the wicked, Ron," Clara said sweetly, and they all made their way into the Training Area.

"How are you holding up?" Samantha asked Ron. "We've all heard that your brother attacked you in the Entrance Hall."

"He threw a bitch-fit," Ron said dismissively. "The twins aren't used to losing, especially to me. By the way, was all of their contraband taken away?"

"Not only taken, but destroyed by McGonagall herself," Carey smiled at him. "Turns out that your brothers were stealing contraband back from Filch, so McGonagall decided to take no chances."

"Good," Ron nodded in approval. "With their lack of income, it'll take them a while to get back on their feet. Plus, they'll never fuck with me again."

"And if they do?" Clara hummed.

"Then I will spank them again," Ron shot her a wink.

"I like that imagery," Clara giggled.

"There is one thing that makes little sense to us," Samantha smiled at him. "The twins claimed that they had stopped their pranks."

"Is that so?" Ron asked. "Well, they'd say anything to escape trouble."

"True, but they kept claiming their innocence even after their punishment was meted out," Carey said, her eyes were sharp despite her smile. "They claimed that they didn't set off those Dung Bombs during Breakfast, or spike our drinks during Lunch with Rainbow Dye." Well, Marty did that for me.

"How odd," Ron shrugged casually.

"Yes… Odd," Carey's smile widened a little.

"It matters little now," Clara said, and the other two girls gave her nods. They might be onto me, but who cares? They want to win, and so do I. "How are the D-rank students looking, Ron?"

"Much better," Ron admitted. "The second years have trouble against a barrage of Spells, but I plan to keep at it. They're lazy, but not talentless."

"I hear that they're not so lazy with you around," Carey said in her silky smooth voice. I want her to read me lullabies before I sleep every night. "Any advice that you wish to share?"

"Hit them," Ron replied.

"Really?" Samantha asked.

"Not hit them physically," Ron clarified. "But don't be scared of stunning someone who keeps fucking up. They need to understand that in a Duel, mistakes cause injuries. Even the smallest mistake, if capitalized upon, can lead to a loss. You need to make them see the benefits of being focused, and most of all, decisive. Cowardly acts like shrieking at oncoming Spells needs to be beaten out of them. Oh, and wow them with 'cool' Magic. People respect strength, so don't be afraid of showing off." Be like Madam Roberts, but not half as severe.

"We're thinking of having some collective training before the Tournament Finals," Clara told him as she cozied up to him. "You mind lending us a hand?"

"Of course not," Ron replied, making sure to not touch her chest by mistake. "Whatever you three need."

"That's what we like to hear," Samantha moved some of his hair away from his left ear, while Carey stepped up to him. Wait… I've just realized that they've circled me.

"You've done well, Ron," Carey whispered, and then she gave him a soft peck on the lips. "Thank your friends for us, especially Tracey."

"I'll… do that," Ron swallowed thickly, now he was feeling hot under the collar. "I need to go… Study group."

"Of course," Carey smiled a genuine smile. "We'll see you at Dinner, Ron."

"And be sure to rest at some point," Clara added. "No more accidents, please."

"I'll try my best."

Friday 27th November, 1993 (Outside the Library – After Classes)

One by one, his study group filled the Library. Madam Pince had actually ordered them new desks, and even reserved a spot for just them. Ron had thanked her profusely, but she kept insisting that she was only doing her job. Either way, Ron was grateful for her kindness.

The brand new tables served as a reminder that his efforts were paying off. Each meeting of the study group was more exciting than the last, mostly because it resulted in no animosity between the Houses for a short while. When the study group was together, they were all simply students of Hogwarts, and not different animals.

"We're not late, are we?" Luna hummed as she skipped up with her friends.

"Not at all," Ron smiled at them all, and they gave him slightly bashful waves. Cute. "Madam Pince ordered us new desks, so be sure to thank her on the way in." Luna gave him a nod, but before she could leave, Ron stopped her. "Ladies, do you mind if I steal Luna for a moment?"

"You can keep her," Daisy Thompson giggled, and they all left to find the new tables.

"Did you hear that Luna?" Ron chuckled. "I can keep you."

"Are you going to carry me away to Slytherin?" Luna smiled airily.

"Would that be so bad, little sis?" Ron asked.

"I don't think that I'll fit in," Luna admitted.

"Nonsense," Ron 'scoffed'. "You're my sister, which basically makes you royalty."

"Are you a King now?" Luna giggled.

"It is my favorite piece," Ron sniggered. "Anyway… I just wanted to let you know that I've ordered you a dress."

"You have?" Luna asked, her head tilting to the side.

"It's a bit late," Ron replied. "It was meant to get here today, but sadly, it never showed up."

"I'm sure it will turn up," Luna said a bit too certainly. "Thank you, Ron. I'll make you a necklace for the event." Um… Please don't.

"Fair enough," Ron couldn't help but smile.

"And Ginny?" Luna asked, and Ron blinked at her. "Did you get her a dress as well?"

"I did," Ron replied. "But don't tell her. I'm still upset with her."

"Alright," Luna agreed immediately. "But someone has to step forward, Ron."

"Step forward?" Ron asked.

"Yes, step forward," Luna told him. "I want it to be her, but she's not herself anymore. I don't think she'll ever be, but that's not a bad thing. After all, you've changed too, and it was a good change."

"Was it?" Ron asked. "Many would disagree."

"They miss who you were, but I know for certain that you haven't changed in the ways that matter," Luna hummed. I swear, her mind exists on a plane that we mortals can't grasp. What kind of twelve year old talks like Dumbledore?

"Are you sure that you're a twelve year old girl?" Ron asked, and then he poked her side.

"Stop that," Luna giggled as she dodged his fingers. "Ron, I'm ticklish!" I know, and it's hilarious.

"Are you harassing another student?" came Percy's voice from behind him, and Ron turned around with a guilty look.

"Not at all," Ron replied. "I was merely checking to see if Luna was human."

"I am human," Luna said aloofly. "Are you human, Ron?" No.

"Luna, why don't you head inside?" Ron suggested.

"He didn't answer my question," Luna told Percy, who gave her a nod. "Suspicious."

With that, Luna skipped off to join her friends, while Ron looked over Percy.

"Where's your Badge?" Ron asked, and Percy fixed his glasses.

"Someone stole it," Percy said calmly.

"Stole it?" Ron asked.

"In the night, while I slept," Percy replied. "Don't worry about it, Ron. Can I talk to you? In private?"

"Sure," Ron nodded, who would steal Percy's Head Boy Badge? I'll ask around, and see if I can't locate it for him. "There's a classroom just down the Hallway, we can talk in there."

"Let's go," Percy said as he started leading the way.

"What do you want to talk about?" Ron asked.

"Well… I have a couple of things on my mind," Percy replied. "Let's just get inside first, alright?"

"Oh… It's one of those talks, eh?" Ron asked.

"Don't say 'eh'," Percy sighed, while Ron smirked at him. "I'm serious, Ron. Your vocabulary can reveal a lot about you as a person."

"Well fuck me bloody, I had no fucking idea," Ron grinned, while Percy closed his eyes.

"I just lost a year of my life hearing that sentence," Percy said, and Ron let out a laugh.

"A joke? From you?" Ron asked.

"It's a nice day," Percy shrugged, an easy smile on his face. "One or two jokes are warranted, I'd say."

"Two?" Ron pretended to be shocked. "Easy, Percy. People might realize that you're a funny bloke if you go that far."

They made their way inside, and Percy shut the door behind them. Ron looked around for a couple of seats, and he set them up for their use. They sat down across from each other, and Ron couldn't help but think of Madam Pomfrey. This is how we do our sessions, except she sits further away.

"Well?" Ron asked. "What's on your mind?"

"Firstly… Ginny," Percy said. "Have you seen her? She was so angry with the twins yesterday, and today, people told me that she looked quite upset. No one has seen her since her classes ended. She's not at your study group, is she?"

"No, she isn't," Ron replied.

"You don't sound… bothered… by her being missing," Percy pointed out.

"Why should I be?" Ron asked. "She's been nothing but cruel to me for over a month, and I still don't know why."

"Last year changed her, Ron," Percy said. "Just be patient, please. She's our sister, and we can't just forget about her."

"I… I know," Ron drew in a deep breath. "You and Luna haven't been scheming together, have you?"

"No," Percy chuckled. "But Luna's a smart girl, you ought to heed her words."

"Ginny will turn up, I'm sure of it," Ron said. "She's a Weasley, which makes her a three-quarters stubborn, and one-quarter fiery temper."

"If you say so," Percy said. "Anyway… The other thing on my mind are the twins."

"Go on," Ron leaned back in his seat.

"They were so adamant about their innocence," Percy said, a slightly puzzled look on his face. "Even as they were being sent home, they claimed that the barrel wasn't theirs."

"Barrel?" Ron asked.

"Oh… Sorry," Percy shook his head clear. "A barrel of alcohol for a party that they planned to throw. Honestly, I don't know what to think… The twins have never thrown a party before, but all the evidence can't be refuted."

"But some part of you can't believe it?" Ron asked, and Percy nodded. "They're your brothers, Percy. Maybe you don't want something like this to be true simply because of that."

"I… suppose," Percy said slowly. "I did feel a bit sorry for them, despite my anger at their antics. They kept claiming that the alcohol wasn't theirs, but they also never mentioned anyone who might've set them up." The twins never tattle… That's almost admirable. Almost.

"How long are they suspended for?" Ron asked.

"Till the end of Yule Break," Percy replied. "Mother is going to be so damn angry with them."

"Well, they brought it on themselves," Ron shrugged. "What more can you do?"

"Why didn't you tell me that the twins were targeting you?" Percy asked.

"Tell you? Perce, they blew Dung Bombs in the Great Hall itself," Ron chuckled mirthlessly. "Every single person at this school knew what was happening to us, but no one lifted a finger. Not until you caught them." Not until we saved ourselves.

"Why did none of you retaliate?" Percy asked.

"Because… I asked the Slytherins not to," Ron admitted, much to Percy's surprise.

"And they listened?" Percy asked.

"When I speak, people listen," Ron stared at his brother. "Do you know why?"

"Why?"

"Because I'm not afraid of challenging them," Ron replied. "You and I were always so passive, Perce. We spent so long being taunted, and being made a joke of, that we forgot to fight back. But now, I've relearned the basics. At first, you should be peaceful and even kind, but if people refuse to listen, then you make them listen."

"You make it sound easy," Percy sighed out.

"Sorry," Ron smiled a little. "It's not easy, and it causes a lot of headaches, but in the end, you have to stand up for yourself. Especially when the higher ups don't care enough to help you."

"Higher ups?"

"Professors, parents, Family friends, Ministers," Ron listed.

"Ministers?" Percy blinked.

"Yes, even Ministers," Ron said. "Governments should fear their people, not the other way around."

"You really believe that?" Percy asked. "You're a bit too young to think of such things, Ron."

"I own a Media Outlet," Ron reminded his brother. "I have to think like this. Plus, Slytherin has taught me that respect has to be earned, and that you shouldn't just hand it out because someone has a certain position."

"But they got to that position because they deserve respect," Percy countered.

"Really? Fudge deserves respect?" Ron asked, and Percy blinked at him. "What for? He's given away most of our country's wealth in order to help Albania-"

"He did that to help Albania's people," Percy interrupted.

"What about our own people?" Ron asked. "Have been to Diagon Alley in the last month?"

"Well… No," Percy replied.

"It's not the same," Ron told his brother. "Knockturn Alley is overrun with crime, and it's spilling out into Diagon Alley. Our Aurors have been sent off to protect Albania's population, while our own crime rate has skyrocketed. And what is Fudge doing? Nothing. He spends his time peacocking in front of cameras, while people like Madam Amelia Bones come up with strategies to fix the country. Now you tell me, Perce, who deserves respect out of the two?"

Percy didn't say anything, instead, he seemed to be thinking about Ron's words.

"Anyway… We've veered off topic," Ron shook his head clear. "Do you want to talk about anything else?"

"Actually, I want to talk about this Gala," Percy said, he looked a little bothered by Ron's previous words. "Ron, I have never been to one of these events, and I don't know what to expect."

"I see," Ron nodded. "It's nothing like our Family events, that's for certain. They may call this a party, but in truth, it's a very civilized affair. There is a time for dancing, for eating, for mingling, and loud behavior is deeply frowned upon. Tell you what, Perce, why don't you stick with me for a bit? I want to introduce you to a few people."

"Introduce me?" Percy asked.

"Madam Bones, for one," Ron replied.

"The Head of Department of Magical Law Enforcement," Percy said.

"The very same," Ron smiled at him. "She's a person that you just have to meet. You still want to work in the Ministry, right?"

"I do," Percy replied. "Right after Hogwarts, I'll apply for a minor position and work my way up."

"Or… I introduce you to Madam Bones, and you can show her just how brilliant you are," Ron suggested.

"I'm not though," Percy sighed.

"Um… Yes, you are," Ron blinked at him. "Twelve O. W. Ls, top of your class, Prefect then Head Boy, and the Professors respect you. Hell, even Professor Snape respects you. That exclusive Potions Club will help too."

"Right," Percy rubbed the back of his neck.

"Just talk to her, and tell her about your accomplishments," Ron leaned forward. "We'll embellish things a little, and see if you can't work under her."

"As an Auror? No thanks," Percy shook his head.

"Not an Auror," Ron chuckled. "But maybe as her personal assistant. She's as respected as Fudge in the Ministry, and she could use a smart young man helping her." Plus, you'll be safe in the middle of all of those Aurors.

"I was thinking of working under Crouch Snr," Percy admitted, he hadn't even told their father this. Crouch Snr? He's a pariah now, thanks to his son.

"Percy, listen to me," Ron all but whispered. "Madam Bones is the person you want to work for."

"Why do you say it like that?" Percy blinked. Because I want her to be Minister, and after her, you can take over. We Weasleys will run this country.

"Alright, just listen, and don't ever speak of this again," Ron became dead serious, much to Percy's surprise. "The Dark Lord is still alive, you already know that."

"What?"

"Listen," Ron said firmly. "He attacked me, remember? Now… It's only a matter of time before he returns, and once he does, who will be leading this country? Fudge? Crouch Snr? Or Madam Bones?"

"History would suggest that a person with knowledge against the Dark Arts would take over," Percy said slowly, he suddenly had no idea who he was speaking to.

"Madam Bones is the next Minister for Magic, Perce," Ron told his brother. He's always been good to me, and I want him to succeed and be happy. He deserves it. "She might not know it yet, but she's going to be leading the people of Magical Britain very soon."

"Ron? What are you…? What are you implying?" Percy leaned forward and whispered.

"I want you to jump onto the right horse," Ron whispered. "If we work together, we can navigate the Ministry's bureaucracy in order to reach our goals sooner. I have already made a move on the Ministry myself, and once you join it, we can combine forces. With my fame and contacts, and your intelligence and diligence, we could do great things."

"Wait a minute," Percy mumbled, he looked rather perplexed. "Just… What do you mean that you've made a move on the Ministry?"

"At this Gala, I will be named an International Diplomat to the French," Ron replied, and Percy just stared at him.

"Pardon?"

"I have worked with Madame Olympe Maxime, and together, we are bringing eleven Old French Families to this Gala," Ron said, and Percy looked even more shocked. "They will be donating a lot of money to the Ministry, and so, for my efforts, Fudge has given me my new position."

"You'll be working for the Ministry… At thirteen…" Percy said, and Ron gave him a nod.

"I'll be 'working' for the Ministry," Ron leaned back. "You and I, Perce, we can take the Ministry by storm. I'll be in the Department of International Magical Cooperation, while you'll be working in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Together, we'll show the Ministry that us Weasleys are worth respecting. That we may not have outrageous amounts of money, but we work our arses off in order to further ourselves. No platinum spoons, or insanely large vaults at Gringotts. Just hard work, and ingenuity."

At that, Ron stood up. Percy just stared up at Ron, who put his gloved hand forward. Percy took it slowly, and Ron pulled his brother to his feet.

"Are you in?" Ron asked, he was quite excited at the prospect of working with Percy.

"I… I feel like I should be the one who makes this offer to you…" Percy admitted slowly, there was no denying that he felt a little jealous of Ron's new position.

"That's fair," Ron smiled. "But it is what it is, Perce. What matters now is what you choose to do with the information that I have just given you."

"How certain are you about Madam Bones?" Percy asked slowly, his brow slightly furrowed.

"It might take a while, but Fudge's days are numbered," Ron replied. "We need a stronger leader, and Madam Bones is that leader. Just wait until you meet her, brother. You'll see what I'm talking about."

They began making their way towards the exit, and Ron could see that Percy was quite shaken due to Ron's plans. Maybe I came on a little strong, but it was necessary. I want him to work under someone who will protect him, but at the same time, elevate him. Madam Bones is that person.

"Percy, remember, not a single word of this to anyone," Ron said as they made their way out, and Percy gave him a weak nod.

"I just… I didn't know that you were so…" Percy stopped. "When did you get involved in such matters, Ron?"

"Influence breeds influence," Ron shrugged. "I seized opportunities that came as a result of my Chess career, and now here I am. Anyway… Enough about this for now. We can't be overheard."

"I'll be heading off then…" Percy looked dazed.

"Actually, why don't you come to the study group?" Ron asked, and Percy broke out of his stupor.

"No thanks," Percy refused.

"Why not?" Ron nudged him. "Just one day, please? You can tutor the first years for me."

"I'm not a teacher," Percy looked hesitant.

"Really? Who taught me then?" Ron cocked an eyebrow. "Yeah, that was you. C'mon, just one lesson."

"Ron, they don't want to learn from me," Percy sighed, why was Ron so persistent?

"They will after I tell them to," Ron chuckled. "Trust me, Percy. It'll be fun."

Percy groaned, and then he followed after Ron. In all honesty, Percy wasn't quite sure that he had just spoken to Ron. But at the same time, it made sense that Ron was doing these things. Maybe that's why he was placed in Slytherin? Maybe if Percy had taken the plunge, he too could've been in Ron's shoes? That thought bothered him, and it even made him jealous. And yet, he liked the idea of one of his siblings having his back. Everyone, except his parents, groaned whenever Percy brought up his ambitions, but Ron hadn't groaned. Ron had offered his hand in partnership, which was something that no one had ever done for Percy.

"Look at these new tables," Ron smiled as he approached his study group, and the first years beamed at him.

"You're here!" Beth said excitedly.

"Honestly, where did you go?" Lysandra asked, she was sitting next to Beth. A Pure-Blood sitting side-by-side with a Muggle-Born. Good. This is how it should be.

"I went to fetch Percy, my older brother," Ron replied, and then he gestured to Percy. "Today, he'll be teaching you first years."

"What?" Tori blinked.

"Here's a secret," Ron smiled at them. "Percy is the one who taught me everything."

"You had a tutor?" Mathew asked, and then he eyed Percy. "You're Head Boy, right?"

"I am," Percy replied.

"Percy is a genius," Ron told his first years, while the rest of the study group just watched in amusement. "He earned twelve O. W. Ls without even breaking a sweat, and as of right now, he is the top student of Hogwarts when it comes to academics. Trust me, you couldn't ask for a better tutor."

"Twelve O. W. Ls?" Hestia cocked an eyebrow.

"How did you manage that?" Flora asked Percy.

"I studied… A lot," Percy replied, and Ron sniggered.

"Percy can be a bit… dry… but trust me, he's great," Ron said, and then he gestured Percy to take a seat with the first years. "Make sure to take advantage of him, alright? This sort of opportunity is very rare. You're learning from the Master today." This should be fun to watch. Percy has no idea how overwhelming the first years can be.

While the first years gathered around Percy, who was acting even more serious than usual, Ron made his way over to Daphne. As he took a seat, he saw her smirking at him.

"What?" Ron asked.

"The Master?" Daphne said, and Ron shrugged with a smile.

"I'm allowed to boast a little about my siblings, aren't I?" Ron asked, and she tapped his foot under the table.

"I'm glad that you brought him here," Daphne said.

"You are?"

"Of course," Daphne smiled. "Now you can help me with my homework."

"Wow…"

Friday 27th November, 1993 (Grimmauld Place – Evening)

"Is anyone home?!" Ron called out from the empty Living Room. Odd. Where are they?

Ron made his way out of the Living Room, and into the Kitchen, where he found Sturgis Podmore making a sandwich. Seriously, where is everyone?

"Mr. Podmore," Ron called out to the man, who turned around with a smile.

"Hello, Mr. Weasley," Sturgis greeted.

"Mr. Weasley," Ron snorted. "Please, just call me Ron. Also, where is everyone?"

"Oh," Sturgis put his sandwich on a plate. "Sirius is still asleep… Yes, I know, it's quite terrible. He got horribly drunk this morning, and then passed out."

"Drunk in the morning?" Ron took a seat, and Sturgis joined him.

"Here, have half," Sturgis pushed the plate forward, the sandwich was cut diagonally.

"Thank you," Ron accepted the offer, and then he took a bite of his half. "Bloody hell, this is really good." I like that he put beetroot in there.

"I'm glad you think so," Sturgis smiled. "As for Sirius, he's in a bit of a mood."

"Why?"

"It's this upcoming Gala, I think," Sturgis decided to say. "He's not very excited to attend as 'Lord Black'."

"I guess that's fair," Ron shrugged. It's no secret that Sirius didn't get along with his Family. "And what about the others? My parents?" The twins?

"They have returned to the Burrow, alongside Mr. and Mrs. Lovegood," Sturgis replied. "Your brothers came in this morning… It was not a pretty affair."

"I see," Ron pulled a face, making Sturgis chuckle. "So… How did mum take it?"

"Not well," Sturgis replied truthfully. "Her screaming sent Kreacher into a panic, the poor thing. He left to go 'shopping', and I know for a fact that he's still hiding out in Diagon Alley." Oh, shite. "I do not wish to offend, but your mother frightens me."

"No offence taken," Ron finished up his half of the sandwich. "My mother's temper is something that I'm quite familiar with."

"I'm sure," Sturgis gave a knowing smile. "I feared for your brothers' safety at one point. She really didn't take their suspension well."

"It's their crime that sent her off the handle," Ron figured, and Sturgis gave a nod. "So… You're here alone, then? Where's that shady bloke who's always hovering in the background."

"Mr. Fletcher?" Sturgis asked, and Ron nodded. Is that his name? "He comes and goes as he pleases, I suppose. And with Sirius asleep, I guess I am the only person around."

"Did Sirius get a chance to talk to my mother about her dress?" Ron asked.

"He… put it off," Sturgis sighed out. "And now, no one will dare approach her."

"I guess I'll have to talk to her myself," Ron stood up.

"Good luck," Sturgis smiled.

"I'll need it," Ron sighed, and then he headed for the Living Room. "Thanks for the sandwich, Mr. Podmore."

"Take care, Mr. Weasley," Sturgis gave a wave. I guess he'll only call me Ron when he's comfortable around me. That's fair enough. I did hurt him pretty badly.

Ron entered the Living Room, grabbed a pinch of floo-powder, and cast it into the fire.

"The Burrow," Ron called, and when the flames blazed to life, Ron stepped into his Family Home. He immediately spotted Charlie and Bill, both of whom were talking in hushed whispers.

"Ron?" Charlie looked to him, while Bill stood up for some reason.

"What are you doing here, little brother?" Bill smiled, and Ron smiled back.

"I got lost," Ron sniggered. "Are you two alright? Why were you whispering?"

"Hardly," Charlie shook his head. "Here's some advice, Ron. Go back to Hogwarts."

"Is she that angry?" Ron asked.

"She's gone mental," Bill said bluntly. "The twins are locked up in their rooms, she even took away their wands."

"Not to mention her threats," Charlie added.

"Threats?" Ron asked.

"She's warned the twins to never step out of line again," Bill replied. "She's tossed out any joke items that they had left in their rooms, and she expects them to get perfect grades. They argued against working within the Ministry, and that was her last straw."

"The twins working at the Ministry…" Ron shuddered.

"Britain would burn," Charlie agreed.

"Ron?! Is that you?!" came Molly Weasley's voice from the Kitchen, and Ron had half a mind to go back to Hogwarts.

"It's me!" Ron called out, and then he stepped into the Kitchen. Oh, Xeno and Pandora are here too. Wait… Then who's taking care of Professor Snape? Probably Kirsten, seeing as she's not here. "Hello, everyone."

"Ron! Did the twins target you at school?! You tell me the truth, young man!" Molly looked him over, she was both pissed off and concerned.

"Um…" Ron looked to the letter in his father's hand. "Sort of…"

"Sort of?" Arthur asked, while Ron let out a sigh.

"They got me once, or twice," Ron said vaguely, he was no rat. "I don't really remember…"

"He's trying to protect them," Molly drew in a sharp breath. "Those two… terrors… What are going to do with them, Arthur? I say that we hold onto their wands until their suspensions end."

"You've already taken away their wands, love," Arthur reminded his wife. Merlin, she's that pissed?

"Oh… Then we ground them as well," Molly said, and then she looked back at Ron. "And you? Why did you 'manhandle' Fred?"

"Manhandle?" Ron asked, had they tattled on him?

"Minerva McGonagall told me that you apparently manhandled your brother," Molly narrowed her eyes on him. That letter also mentioned me… Damn.

"Well… He sort of came at me, and I defended myself," Ron replied. "Nothing that warrants the word 'manhandle'. Can we please talk about the upcoming Gala? I have to go back to Hogwarts soon."

The mention of the Gala reminded Molly of her sixth son's latest stunt, and she immediately looked distant. Arthur, on the other hand, stood up, and walked over to Ron. What's he doing?

"Son, can we talk outside?" Arthur asked, a hint of urgency in his voice. "It won't take long."

"Sure," Ron moved to the front door, and his father followed him out. "Is everything alright?" Knowing you, Ron, it's not.

"I want to show you something in the shed," Arthur led the way, and Ron followed after him slowly.

"You're not planning to off me, are you?" Ron asked, half-joking and half-serious.

"In a shed? Never," his father managed a weak smile, he looked almost defeated. This is serious. "In you go."

Ron eyed his father, who just blinked at him. Arthur then gestured Ron to go inside again, but Ron just stared at him. Why the shed? Something's off here.

"Ron…" his father muttered, he couldn't believe this. "You really think that…" he stopped.

Arthur closed his eyes, drew in a deep breath, and then he entered the shed first. Can't be too careful. What if he locks me in here to keep me 'safe' until the Gala ends? Ron followed his father inside, his eyes peeled.

"I would never lock you in…" Arthur started, but once again, he stopped himself.

"Why are we here?" Ron asked, and his father turned to face him.

"I… I found something… the other day," his father said weakly, and Ron found himself getting worried for another reason. Why is he so overwhelmed? "See that?"

Ron looked to a broken lightbulb.

"You brought me that when you were little," Arthur reminded Ron.

"I… don't remember," Ron told his father.

"You were quiet young," Arthur said. "Bill and Charlie took you to the markets in the nearby village, and you came back with that. You wanted to give it to me, because you knew that I loved Muggle things."

"Was it broken then?" Ron asked.

"No, but it was pretty banged up," Arthur replied. "I spent a whole day trying to turn it on, and once I finally did, I showed you first. Merlin… You were so happy. You actually ran a lap of this shed, all the while clapping and laughing." Touching. What's your point? "I know now that you were only so happy because I had put you first for a change."

"Dad…" Ron sighed. Not now. I have things to do. I have yet to plan something for Priscilla-

"Please, just hear me out," Arthur requested, and Ron couldn't refuse because of the look on the man's face. Nostalgic, and sad. This is uncomfortable. "Your mother told me about your new job, Ron. I am proud of you, I promise."

"But…" Ron said.

"But I'm scared too," Arthur admitted. "You told no one about this, even though it's such a big decision. You didn't even tell Sebastian…"

"He would've told you," Ron explained. "I know that he tells you everything now, despite his very first promise to me."

"He cares about you," Arthur told Ron. "You have no idea how much it pains him to break your trust, but he does it because he cares."

"We have a different definition of help, then," Ron said, his eyes darting to the broken lightbulb. Ronnie brought that lightbulb back, not me.

"What is 'help' to you? Please, tell me," Arthur asked.

"To me, help is when you aid me in my plans," Ron replied. "Help isn't you interfering with my life constantly. Whenever you, and mum, get in my way, it stresses me to no end. You don't 'help' me, none of you do."

"To me, help is watching over you," Arthur shared his own definition. "I can't watch over you if you keep running away."

"Running away?" Ron asked.

"I… I feel like you're miles away, Ron, and I can't catch up to you," Arthur sat down on his weathered stool, his shoulders slumping. "I keep trying to chase you, but you keep running away. I can't help you deal with your Brain-Damage, or your Chronic Stress, and it's killing me slowly. And I can't understand why you do these things."

"These things?" Ron asked, his voice calmer now. I might be upset with him, but I don't like seeing him like this. Damn.

"Professional Chess… This new job… Making powerful allies… Your need to change this Family into something that it's not," Arthur listed. "I keep trying to justify it in my mind, but for the life of me, I can't."

"I… I'm insane," Ron replied, he couldn't explain his character without giving away the burdens that he carried. I don't have time to deal with the fallout. Plus, it's insane babble at best.

"Don't say that," Arthur all but pleaded.

"I can't help myself, dad," Ron leaned against a dusty shelf. "I will never stop, because I can't stop. I don't know how turn off, and at this point, I don't want to learn. I am helping people, and that's what matters to me."

"Helping people?" Arthur looked up.

"Eleven Families, Madame Maxime, and myself," Ron replied. "Five hundred Galleons each… That's six thousand Galleons that I'm bringing to the table at this Gala. Imagine how much that helps the people who are suffering due to our country's current state."

"You're thirteen," Arthur pleaded, a pained look on his face.

Ron was silenced by such a look, and he couldn't help but look away. Shite, he's almost teary eyed. This is so much worse than mum's reaction.

"Ron… You are just a young man, but you're putting the weight of the World on your shoulders," Arthur said. "Sooner or later, it will break you in half. Your mother and I don't want to see our son kill himself, that's all. You're not a parent, so you don't understand the need to protect your child. We don't want to get in your way, we want you to be happy. Like you used to be."

"Used to be," Ron muttered, and then he frowned to himself. Ronnie… "You just miss Ronnie, is that it?"

"Of course I miss who you used to be," Arthur confessed. "That little boy, who lit up like a Christmas Tree, was my son. I haven't seen that boy in years, so why wouldn't I miss him? Your Family can't help but miss who you used to be because they loved that person. But despite all of that, we do love who you are now. You've just convinced yourself that we don't, and you're cutting us out."

"You've given me plenty of reasons to think that, so don't act like it's all my fault," Ron stood up to his full height. "That hateful letter… No apology for venomous words… Treating me like an outsider… Trying to rip me away from my friends… Trying to take my Chess career away… Not showing an ounce of support, or even respect." Ron then stopped for a moment. "Telling Lord Greengrass to not let me play Chess."

"What?"

"You think I don't know why Lord Greengrass hasn't entered me in a competition since the Break?" Ron asked. "Why is it that I had to ask my Mentor to further my career?"

"I… He only did as we asked…" Arthur looked down at his feet.

"When you do things like this, that's when I decide to not trust you," Ron shook his head weakly. "You plot things behind my back, and when I overcome your plots, you become angered and offended. That's my problem with you and mum, you don't know that you're hurting me more than helping me. I've tried to explain it, but you just never listen. Which is fair enough, I mean, you're used to ignoring me, right?"

"You don't know how sorry we are for that," Arthur told Ron. "Every day, I regret that I didn't see it sooner."

"It's not even the neglect that bothers me," Ron clarified. "It's the sheer lack of respect that you all demonstrate near me. Ginny calls me a 'fucking traitor' to my face, and she sees nothing wrong with that. I barely have any decent memories of the twins, mostly because they live to torment me. My virtuous side is completely overlooked by my own Family, despite me being respected by everyone else. Bloody hell… When I told mum about my new job, she didn't even think of how many people I had just helped. She only saw that I had gone behind her back, and now she's throwing a fit."

"Throwing a fit? Why do you speak with such contempt in regards to us?" Arthur swallowed thickly, there was a lump in his throat.

"Why do you think I do that?" Ron asked coldly.

"You're angry with us," Arthur replied.

"Yes… I am angry with you," Ron nodded. "Why shouldn't I be angry when you do these things?"

Arthur said nothing, and they both just stared at each other in silence. After nearly a minute of waiting, Ron drew in a deep breath and began to leave. I have work to do.

"Are you ashamed to be my son?" Arthur asked, and Ron stopped and turned around.

"Pardon?"

"Are you ashamed to be my son?" Arthur repeated. "Tell me the truth, I won't hold it against you."

"Am I ashamed…?" Ron thought for a moment, and then he told the truth. "No, I'm not ashamed." His father released a held breath. "I'm proud to be your son, because since I'm your son, I know the difference between right and wrong. You gave me the ability to stay true to what I believe in. I just wish that you would stop doubting my character, because I have never doubted yours… That is, until recently. Enough is enough, dad. I love you, but you don't own me. If one day you decide to help me instead of hindering me, then I will make amends. Until then, I'll keep running away."

With that, Ron left the shed, and his father, behind. It hurt him to know that his father had such doubts, and that he was struggling alone, but enough was enough. If Ron didn't stand up for himself now, then he'd be stuck in this dance forever. You can only move forward, so keep your eyes on the road. Forget what's behind, that's not where you're going.

Ron entered the Burrow, and he immediately looked to the adults. All of them were looking at him, and Ron knew that they were all in on this. This is their one last push, right? One last chance to get Ronnie back.

"Tomorrow, I'll return here for lunch," Ron said to his mother, and he saw something spark behind her distant eyes. "We will go to Diagon Alley, and I will buy you and dad something suitable for this Gala." And the spark is gone… "If you refuse, I will go without you."

Arthur entered from behind Ron, and he gave his wife a subtle nod. She didn't say anything, and Ron decided to be on his way before this got any more uncomfortable.

"Xeno, Pandora, it was nice to see you again," Ron said, and then he left for the Living Room.

His brothers eyed him carefully, and he figured that they knew everything as well. Ron said nothing as he walked up to the fireplace, and they decided to stay quiet themselves.

"Headmaster's Office, Hogwarts," Ron called, and then he threw the powder into the flames.

Once they roared to life, Ron stepped through as quietly as he could. He hadn't expected such a confrontation when he had stepped into his childhood home, but now that it was behind him, Ron felt slightly upset with the fact that his father was feeling so… powerless. And yet, Ron would not give an inch. The Cycle must succeed. So many lives hang in the balance, and my happiness is nothing compared to that. Even if I lose my parents' love, I must keep fighting.

"Ronald," Dumbledore greeted, and Ron looked to find the old man resting in his chair.

"Headmaster," Ron greeted back. And then there's him… I spilled my crazy all over him this morning, and it was such a relief. That's hardly fair on him, though.

Ron walked up to the Headmaster's side, and he leaned against the clawed-desk. Dumbledore stared up at him, but he didn't say anything.

"This morning…" Ron started. "I didn't mean to sound so… grim. I don't want you to worry about me, alright? Worry about yourself right now."

"I fear that I will worry about you until my dying breath, my boy," Dumbledore admitted, a soft smile gracing his face.

"Sorry," Ron apologized, giving Dumbledore a sorry smile. "What I said about Harry… I was just angry, and my bitterness got the better of me. I know that you care about me, even when you don't have to."

"You are only human," Dumbledore said in an understanding manner.

"Some would disagree with that," Ron stated.

"They do not know you as I do, then," Dumbledore responded. "My own approach to your words was… foolish. You spoke from your heart, and all I managed was some vague advice."

"You really should sleep," Ron looked at the old man's baggy eyes. "It'd be a shame if you died from exhaustion."

"Exhaustion," Dumbledore smiled more widely. "If only, dear boy."

"If only," Ron repeated. "Your words were fine, Headmaster. I didn't feel upset by them, or even patronized. You were hardly prepared for my lack of self-control."

"Did you mean what you proclaimed?" Dumbledore asked.

"Yes."

"I see," Dumbledore nodded slowly. "I can't see the Future, but I hope that you get proven wrong… I would like to see you be proven wrong. After all of this is over, I want you to finally find peace, Ronald."

"That day is far away," Ron stopped leaning on the desk, and then he put his gloved hand on Dumbledore's shoulder. "I understand that Harry is the key to the Dark Lord's defeat, and I'll do whatever is needed of me. Even if that means always being hidden in the shadows."

"Thank you," Dumbledore said, though he didn't look happy with himself. "I know it's not fair, but life seldom is." Harry inspires hope in a way that I can't. He is the symbol behind which all of the Dark Lord's enemies can rally, not me.

"I know that life's a mean bitch," Ron said, while Dumbledore gave his hand a squeeze. "I'll see you at dinner, Headmaster. Please, take a nap at least."

"I will try, my boy."

Friday 27th November, 1993 (Slytherin Common Room – Near Midnight)

Ron sat in front of the fire, his ears absorbing the sound of the crackling fire, while his skin was protected by the fire's warmth. To his left sat his sisters' dresses, and to his right sat a list of scrapped plans for Priscilla and her friends.

His friends, and House-mates, were all asleep by now, but Ron was wide awake. He had to come up with something before Sunday, but none of his plans were plausible. He had thought to hide them away in the Chamber itself, but in the end, he had ruled against that. Sending them from a life on the streets to a life in a dank bunker was hardly helpful. He had thought of giving them money over time, but that too didn't sit well with him. They deserve a home, just like everyone else. They deserve to go to school, and to have a chance at a normal life.

Ron frowned at the fire, his thoughts were useless anyway. Ron had barely any money left, and he knew nothing about building homes for orphans. What he needed was help, and so he first needed to overcome his pride for the Greater Good. It's the only way, and you know it. You can't do everything by yourself, Ron, despite your desire to.

The question wasn't about whom to go to, but rather who he could trust. He had thought about his friends, but in the end, he knew that they wouldn't understand. Theo, Blaise, and Malfoy didn't see Squibs as people, which wasn't so uncommon. Mum and dad don't like them either, even if they won't openly admit it. Daphne, Pansy, and Millie weren't exactly right choices either, as they had their own distrust of Squibs due to their traditions. Tracey is the only one who would see Squibs as people, but she's not rich like the others. Well, not rich enough.

Maybe he ought to go to a Pure-Blood Family? No… The Pure-Blood Families, despite their differing beliefs, all saw Squibs as Non-Magical stains, and therefore, not worthy of note. Merlin, imagine being completely alone in the World. To live in a World of your dreams, but be unable to ever experience it fully. All of this meant only one thing, Ron had to go to someone who would understand his need to help the Squibs, and this person needed to have experience and the means of creating a home for orphans. Albus Dumbledore. He is the Headmaster of a school, and I bet he has the means to pull this off. Plus, he can help me hide the orphans from the war.

Ron grabbed the scrapped plans, and he tossed them into the fire. His mind was set, he needed his friend's help, and knowing Dumbledore, he'd be all for it. It is what it is, Ron. Your pride shouldn't even enter a matter like this.

"I say, do you brood often?" came a familiar voice from his right, and Ron jumped in fright.

"Fucking hell, Sorting Hat…"

AUTHOR'S NOTE: And there it is! Sadly, no Gala, but technically, this is all part of the Gala Arc. Plus, a lot of you want the Gala to have a lot of coverage, so I'll give an entire Chapter on it. Well, at least 10,000 words, if not more!

Next chapter should be up around Saturday. I've decided to give a semblance of a date, rather than an actual day. I'm busy af right now, so an actual day makes me rush the chapters. So, I'll see you guys on Saturday, or Sunday.