Fate

by TheTrueSpartan

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

101. Chapter 101 - Desire to Win

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 101 is here! Goddamn, that feels good to say. We made it past 100, and here's to another 100!

Please Enjoy!

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

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

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Fate

Chapter 101 – Desire to Win

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday 12th December, 1993 (The Chamber of Secrets – After Dinner)

Ron had skipped dinner.

He deeply regretted his conversation with Daphne, despite the necessity of it. What really bothers me is the fact that she hasn't thought this through… She's an intelligent girl, and yet, she seems to have glossed over my potential death. That, or she foolishly refused to acknowledge it. I want to talk to her again, but I know we'll just repeat the same conversation. Until she approaches me, I'll just have to be patient. I honestly don't know what else I can say to her at this point to make her understand, and I definitely don't want to involve her parents. She'll crush my balls if I do that…

"And over here, we added a small arc," Chivvy told him, and Ron broke out of his thoughts. "There's a bunch of them, actually, and they're keeping the caves from collapsing. Whatever happened here, it did a lot of damage to this place's structure."

"This is honest to Merlin amazing work, Chivvy," Ron complimented, the Elves were nearing the end of their contract.

"Lord Weasley is most generous," Chivvy bowed deeply. Please, stop calling me that.

"Just Ron will do, mate," Ron smiled weakly. "I got Marty's opinion on furniture for this place, now I want yours."

"Marty has told us of your plans," Chivvy gave a nod. "Chivvy can access his channels for you, and get you a great deal. Fifty beds for two hundred Galleons, plus chairs and tables." Really?

"What kinds of 'channels'?" Ron asked, this sounded too good to be true.

"Elf channels," Chivvy smiled a 'toothy' smile. He's missing his front teeth. "We aren't really builders, but we do have carpenter friends… Chivvy can set up a meeting if Lord Weasley wants." He did it again…

"No, that's fine," Ron already had enough on his plate. I have the money, but should I spend it on this just yet? No, this can wait. "Right now, I need my money for some other endeavors."

"Chivvy understands," Chivvy gave another nod. "If Lord Weasley decides to follow through with the furniture, Chivvy asks that Lord Weasley send Marty to him."

"Trying to keep my business?" Ron teased, and the Elf snorted. "It's alright… I really appreciate this, Chivvy. Hiring you was the best decision I could've made for this place. I mean, look at these caves. They actually look inhabitable now."

"Hiring builder Elves would have served Lord Weasley better, but thank you," Chivvy looked rather pleased, and proud, to hear Ron's praise.

"Let's head back to the main chamber," Ron turned to leave, and Chivvy followed after him.

They made their way through the caves, and Chivvy explained why he had made sure to restore the serpent-head statues in the main chamber. Personally, Ron didn't really care for 'aesthetics', he cared for efficiency and results, but hearing the Elf's impassioned speech changed his mind a little. In an odd sort of way, Ron felt that by keeping the serpent-head statues, he was honoring Salazar's memory. Not sure how I feel about that, but since he's been dead for a thousand years, who gives a fuck? The Chamber he built to hurt Muggle-Borns will serve to protect them one day.

"Master!" Marty called for him as soon as Chivvy and he entered the main chamber. "Master, over here!"

"What is it?!" Ron called back, and then he quickened his pace.

"Chivvy's Elves found this chest!" Marty told Ron, who quickly scanned the small, dust-covered chest. Bloody hell, what is this?

"Chivvy?" Ron looked to the Elf.

"Chivvy was going to tell you as soon as we returned," Chivvy explained, and then he looked to the restored face of Salazar Slytherin. "We found it in the back…"

"What? Behind the face?" Ron blinked. There's room back there?

"We couldn't venture far… The smell was toxic," Chivvy grimaced.

"Did any of the workers get hurt?" Ron blurted out, taking Chivvy by surprise. Did I get someone killed by sending them down here?

"No, Chivvy stopped his friends," Chivvy told Ron, who relaxed visibly. Thank Merlin. "There was a room back there, but it had caved in. Chivvy was able to pull this chest out, but it won't open. Elf Magic doesn't work on it, nor does any form of force. Lord Weasley can have it."

"A chest that can't be opened," Ron looked back to the chest, his eyes scanning the two silver serpents that clearly served as the lock. Maybe it needs a Parselmouth? Just like the Chamber's entrance. "I'll take it."

"Just be careful, Lord Weasley," Chivvy said. "This chest sends shivers through Chivvy."

"Right," Ron looked back to the Elf. "How many more days do you think you need? I'm not trying to rush you, but the Holidays are approaching."

"A week at most," Chivvy replied, and Ron gave him an approving nod. "Chivvy just wants to make sure that the caves can withstand some tremors. Oh, and the back entrance out of this Chamber, and into the Forbidden Forest, needs some final touches."

"Very well… Just add some more torches as well, please" Ron said, and then he looked to Marty. "Ready to go?"

"Marty awaits Master's command," Marty smiled, and then he went to grab the chest.

"No, I'll take it," Ron said quickly, the last thing he wanted was for Marty to get Cursed.

Before Marty could urge Ron to let him take the risk, Ron reached down and picked up the chest. It's lighter than it looks. I wonder what's in here.

"Master… That was too risky," Marty just stared at Ron, who simply shrugged.

"My plans, my responsibility," Ron said, and then he took a step closer to Marty. "Take me to the Sanctuary."

Marty let out a slightly annoyed huff, and then he Apparated Ron to the Sanctuary. Once again, Ron felt like he was being pulled through a straw, but when they landed, Ron managed to stay upright. A weak feeling of nausea came, but it left just as quickly as it had arrived. Damn, that feels weird. I need to learn how to Apparate myself. It's too handy a skill to not have.

"That wasn't so bad," Ron smiled at Marty. "I'm getting used to this." He's not smiling… Is he upset that I didn't let him take the chest?

"Master should let Marty take the risks…" Marty stated, and Ron simply shook his head. "Master… You are being unwise."

"I'm sorry, Marty, but that's just not me," Ron confessed. "It was my plan to rebuild the Chamber, and so I need to take care of things like this."

"What if it was Cursed, Master?" Marty asked.

"Exactly," Ron replied, and Marty looked a little confused by Ron's response. "Marty, don't be so quick to throw yourself under a bus for my benefit. I don't want that, and I will never ask that of you. Understood?"

"Yes," Marty sighed out. He wants to risk his neck? That's just some insane amount of loyalty.

"I'm going to try and open this thing," Ron began to walk over to the couches. "Can you please bring me some dinner?"

"Marty will return shortly," Marty bowed deeply, and then he cracked away to the Kitchens. So loud. He always forgets to be sneaky.

Ron sat down in his favorite chair, and he planted the chest on the coffee table. Now, let's see what you're hiding.

"Open," Ron hissed, and with a loud clank, the silver serpents began to slide to the bottom of the chest. Ah, Salazar… You predictable bigot.

The top of the chest opened with a hiss, and some collected dust shot out of it. Ron slowly began opening the lid, a small part of him was genuinely afraid of what was inside. C'mon, Ron, be a man! Ron drew in a deep breath, and then he quickly pushed the lid back completely. Fortunately, the chest was not booby-trapped, and Ron let out a relieved breath. Guess I get to live for now. What a shame. Ron peered into the small chest, and his eyes were immediately captured by the dagger that sat atop a bed of old parchments.

Ron reached into the chest with both hands, and he pulled the dagger out in order to inspect it. The silvery scabbard was covered with dust, and once Ron blew most of it away, he noticed that a serpent made of emeralds encircled the scabbard. Ron let out a low whistle, his lips twitching upwards. Is the Universe done fucking me over? I think so. Just as Ron was about to unsheathe the dagger, Marty cracked into the room.

"Marty has brought Master's dinner," Marty announced, while Ron barely held back a scream. He gave me a fucking heart attack… Oh, Merlin. "Master managed to open the chest?!"

Ron looked to his Elf, who stood there with a surprised look on his face and tray full of food in his hands.

"I did," Ron showed Marty the dagger, and Marty quickly put the tray of food down on the coffee table. "Should I unsheathe it?"

"Let Marty do it, Master," Marty stepped forward.

"Marty," Ron gave his Elf a deadpan look, and then he began unsheathing the dagger.

As soon as Ron had finished pulling it out, he was filled with utter disappointment. The dagger was badly chipped, and looked blunter than his mother's butter knives. What the fuck? Why did Salazar leave this inside an impenetrable chest? This is garbage!

"Um…" Ron looked to Marty, who looked just as disappointed as Ron.

"It is clearly not Goblin forged," Marty commentated, and Ron nodded his agreement.

"It's useless…" Ron grimaced, and then he put the dagger back inside the scabbard. Wait… Not useless. "These gems…"

Ron eyed the gems on the scabbard, and on the hilt of the dagger. There's quite a few of them.

"Emeralds, Master," Marty said, and Ron felt some of his spirit return.

"You reckon we could pull them out?" Ron asked his Elf, who gave a nod.

"Marty can do that," Marty put his hands forward, and Ron handed him the dagger. "It shouldn't take long, Master. Marty can clean, and then remove, the gems tonight."

"Great," Ron smiled greedily. "Once you've collected them, leave them inside my trunk, please." I'll see if I can't sell them in Diagon Alley. Maybe Martin will buy them off of me considering that he's a Jeweler? "Actually, take the night off, Marty. You can do this tomorrow." The sun has settled for the day, and I don't like the idea of him slaving away for me in the dead of night.

"Marty will extract the gems tomorrow, then," Marty smiled a toothy smile, and then he left with a loud crack. My damn ears. Whatever, I need to keep looking through the chest. Oh, and I need to eat.

---

One Hour Later

Ron had eaten his fill, all the while going through the parchments within the chest. Sadly, most of them were badly damaged, and he couldn't even make out the writing on them. As for the ones that were still salvageable, the ink had become faded with time and moisture. Ron had decided to try and salvage these parchments in the hopes of unearthing more secrets, but he himself didn't have the skill required for such a task. What he needed was a person who could restore dated documents, and Ron figured that Flourish and Blotts might have such a person.

As he pulled out the last parchment from the chest, his eyes sparked to life when he saw the clear writing on it. This one is readable! Ron quickly leaned back in his chair, his focus completely directed at the writing of Salazar Slytherin.

I have made the most terrible of mistakes.

I have confessed my fears to Godric, and he has turned me away. My little brother is ruled by his heart, and always has been… I fear that he will turn the others against me. His love for the Muggle-Borns grows stronger with each passing day, and so he has become blinded to the most simple of truths.

They can destroy what we have built within a day.

I have been counting the students in the Great Hall, and just as I feared, at least a quarter of them are Muggle-Borns. They sit there, with happy smiles, and we have no method of discovering what they discuss. For all we know, they are planning to bring their Muggle armies to our very doorsteps.

I cannot lose another Family… I will not let it happen.

I must discover a way to cull their ever-growing numbers.

It is the only way.

Ron looked to the back of the parchment, and sadly, it was blank. Bloody hell… He must've written these while he was planning the Chamber of Secrets. Ron quickly looked back to the salvageable parchments, and much to his annoyance, he could not find a single parchment that was legible. Damn it, I can only make out faint words, so the story won't make any sense. I need to take these to Flourish and Blotts as soon as possible. I have to know if Salazar left some of his knowledge behind.

Ron began packing everything up, making sure to stash the salvageable parchments within the chest. I'll definitely keep this chest. After all, only I can open it. Wait… Harry can open this too, and so can the Dark Lord. I'll just have to hide it where only I can find it. I can keep my most valuable possession in here, and I think I'll start with the Basilisk Fang in my Vault. I still don't know why the Entity asked me to retrieve it, but it's clearly important. The next time I meet that thing, I'll ask it some questions.

---

Saturday 12th December, 1993 (The Sanctuary – Near Midnight)

He couldn't sleep.

In the back of his mind, there was a voice telling him to get to work. So Ron had trained against the dummies for nearly two hours, but despite this, sleep continued to elude him. Ron thought about going back down to the common room in order to sleep in his own bed, but he knew that his friends would have questions for him. And I just can't be fucked with that right now. Hmm, what else can I accomplish tonight? An idea suddenly struck him, and Ron hopped out of his seat.

He could contact Emilia right now, couldn't he? Yes… She's at Grimmauld Place, Dumbledore told me as much. And as it happens, I have a loyal Elf in working in that house. Ron knew that he couldn't send Marty there, especially after the Fidelius Charm was implemented, but Kreacher was already inside. Kreacher knew where everyone would be sleeping, and most importantly, he could sneak into Emilia's room and kidnap her. Let's just hope that he answers my prayers.

"Kreacher, I need you," Ron called out, making sure to picture the old Elf.

Nothing happened, and Ron found himself frowning with disappointment.

"Kreacher! Can you hear-"

A loud crack emanated from behind him, and Ron turned around with his wand brandished. Kreacher was already bowing, and Ron quickly unsheathed his wand. His right ear… It's half-blown off.

"Lord Weasley called Kreacher?" Kreacher looked up with a twisted smile. He's so old that he can't even smile properly. That, or he's forgotten how to.

"I did," Ron smiled back. "I'm glad you heard me, especially since I'm not your Master."

"Kreacher is always listening for Lord Weasley's call," Kreacher took on his usual, hunched, form. "Ever since Lord Weasley freed Kreacher from his misery." Yeesh, he sounds so awed.

"Thank you," Ron started. "And please, just call me Ron. I don't like being referred to as 'Lord Weasley' by my friends and allies." My siblings have seen to that.

"Kreacher is honored to be considered an ally to a wizard more powerful than the Dark Lord," Kreacher bowed once again, and Ron pulled a face. What the fuck? More powerful than the Dark Lord? Oh, shite… Wasn't Kreacher sprouting that nonsense after Dumbledore destroyed the Locket? He still believes it?

"Kreacher, I'm not more powerful than the Dark Lord," Ron told the truth. "Not yet, anyway." I'll surpass them all. "And stop bowing, please. Things would go a lot faster if we can just talk as equals."

"Equals?" the Elf blinked. Bloody hell, time is wasting away here.

"Yes, so please just relax," Ron said gently, and Kreacher slowly took on his usual form. "Is Emilia Travers still at…?" Damn that Charm. "Is she at your house?"

"Lord…" he started, but quickly stopped. "Ron… knows of the Order?"

"He does," Ron gave a nod, and Kreacher adorned a surprised look. He better not start revering me again. "Is she still there?"

"Yes, Lady Travers is recovering from her injuries," Kreacher replied. "Does… Ron… wish to speak with her?"

"He does, and in private," Ron said. "I was hoping to go to that cliff-side, and then you could go kidnap her for me."

"Kidnap?" Kreacher blinked.

"Yes, abduct her for me," Ron smirked, this was fun. I bet he thinks that I'm a lunatic. "Can you do this for me, Kreacher?"

"Of course," Kreacher quickly recovered from his shock. "Come, Kreacher will take… Ron…" Why does he say my name like that?

Ron took a step forward, and as soon as he gave Kreacher his hand, he felt himself being pulled through a straw. Fuck, I hate that. Ron felt the cool breeze hit his face just as his feet found solid ground. The feeling of nausea came and went quickly, and Ron shook his head clear. Not too bad this time.

"Thanks, Kreacher," Ron gave the Elf a smile. "Now, please go and snatch Emilia Travers."

The Elf gave a gummy smile, and then he was gone with a crack. His smiles are rather creepy. I'll probably have nightmares tonight. Another loud crack came from his left, and Ron turned to see Kreacher and Emilia land on the ground.

"Filthy Elf!" Emilia yelled as she shot up to her feet, her fist raised up for a ferocious assault.

"Emilia!" Ron called, and she stopped just before bringing her fist down. She's wearing a nightgown, and it's a bit… racey… Who knew that Emilia was into such sleepwear? "Kreacher, you may leave us."

The Elf didn't need to be told twice, and he quickly Apparated away from the wrath of the angry woman. Ron quickly pulled off his robes, and he tossed them to Emilia. I should've thought this kidnapping through. Emilia caught the robes, and she quickly put them on, her face twisted from anger.

"What is the meaning of this?!" she stepped up to Ron, who made sure to stay perfectly still. I can't let her have an inch, otherwise, she'll keep doing as she pleases.

"I wanted to talk," Ron replied calmly. I've got Cutis Terra on the ready, bitch, don't try me.

"So you had me stolen away by an Elf in the dead of night?!" she demanded. "You couldn't send an Owl?!"

"Did you send an Owl before ambushing our enemies?" Ron asked her in response, and her anger dimmed a little. "We're supposed to be a team, but you chose to attack without informing me."

"And what would you have done?" Emilia asked, a frown still on her face. "You'd have taken part in the battle? You're a child."

Ron's eyes flashed red, and when he turned and cracked his neck, Emilia stilled immediately.

"I could have helped you," Ron slowly stepped into her face. I'll throw you off this cliff if you look down at me. "As it happens, I have an old friend who wants to sell a dangerous, airborne toxin, and had you come to me, we could've used that. You would have lost no soldiers, and both Nott and Malfoy would be dead right now." The Dark Lord would've lost two powerful allies in one night.

Emilia said nothing, but she kept her eyes on his.

"Do you now see why I had you 'stolen away'?" Ron asked.

"Who is this friend?" Emilia asked in return, ignoring Ron's question.

"First, you'll tell me that you understand the fact that we're partners," Ron said. "Then, you can know about my contacts." Partners in name only… If she steps out of line one too many times, she'll become a hindrance.

"I understand," Emilia grit out.

"Right," Ron took a step back. "My contact claims to have a device created by the Wizards of Old. It's a weapon which releases a deadly toxin into the air."

"A working device from the Wizards of Old… That'd get him a small fortune," Emilia stated, she was clearly intrigued by this weapon.

"I want you to buy it from him," Ron said, and she cocked an eyebrow. "I'd buy it myself, but I'm not exactly swimming in Gold." Plus, I'll get a quarter of what you pay him. "With a weapon like that, we could do some real damage."

"It would be nice to add a working piece to my collection," Emilia spoke to herself, while Ron wondered about her collection. Probably weapons, instead of art. "How much is he selling it for?"

"I'll have to ask him," Ron replied. "It'll be quite expensive, that's all I know."

"I figured that it would be," Emilia said. "Get in contact with him when you can."

"I can do it right now, if you're willing to-"

"I'd rather be dressed for this," she cut him off. Oh, right, I can still somewhat see her legs.

"Fair enough," Ron fought the urge to smirk. "Kreacher!"

The Elf cracked back onto the cliff-side, his eyes fixed on Emilia. The sight of Kreacher made Emilia grimace with disgust, something that Ron didn't really like. Hopefully, she doesn't take her anger out on him. Again, I should've thought this through.

"Kreacher, you can take her back now," Ron said, and Kreacher put his hand forward.

"Next time, send a fucking Owl," Emilia shot Ron a pissed off look, and then she grabbed one of Kreacher's fingers.

They both Disapparated at that, and Ron found himself rather amused with her annoyance. Nah, I'll have her abducted again, I think. It was funny to see her so rattled. Kreacher cracked back to Ron's side, he was carrying Ron's robes.

"I'm ready to go back now, Kreacher."

---

Sunday 13th December, 1993 (Edge of Black Lake – Just before Dawn)

He had managed a few hours of sleep before the voice had returned, and Ron had found himself standing in the dark trees that would eventually lead into the Forbidden Forest. He was cold, restless, and in a mood to achieve something of note. Is this what having ambition means? That you can't rest until everything works out in your favor? How many more nights can I endure of this feeling eating at my gut?

Dumbledore, of all people, had asked him to display some of his prowess. Ron wanted the man's respect, there was no denying it, but he knew that going all out would mean potentially hurting a fellow student. Dumbledore no doubt had some safeguards in place, but since he hadn't told Ron about them, Ron had decided to figure out a different way to scare the French. If I want to storm the Ministry, then I need to be the storm.

"Marty!" Ron called, and after a couple of seconds, his Elf cracked into existence.

"Master…" Marty yawned, his big eyes were bloodshot and droopy. "Master called Marty?"

"Sorry for waking you up, Marty," Ron shot his Elf a sorry look. "But I'm about to do something extremely dangerous, and if it backfires, I need you to take me back to the castle."

"Dangerous?" Marty's eyes widened, Ron's words had clearly worked better than coffee. Do Elves drink coffee? Wait, don't get distracted. Collect your mind.

"Remember when I blew a hole through Hogwarts?" Ron asked.

"Master is about to shoot lightning again?" Marty seemed to pale, but maybe it was just the moon's light reflecting off of his skin. "Is it wise to do it here?"

"Probably not," Ron shrugged. "Any other place in mind?"

Marty thought about it, and then he put his hand forward. Ron decided to do as Marty advised, mostly because he himself was too tired to think of a place. As soon as Ron took Marty's hand, he found himself in a dense looking forest. Ron looked up at the night sky, and he figured that they weren't too far away from Hogwarts.

"Where are we?" Ron asked.

"On the hills north of Hogwarts, Master," Marty replied. "Far from the castle, and far from Hogsmeade Village." Marty then eyed Ron's face with a slightly worried look. "Is Master well? He seems… distant."

"Just sleepy, mate," Ron told Marty. "Don't worry about me, I'm fine. Once I've tried this out, I'll finally be able to sleep."

"Marty isn't sure about this, Master," Marty admitted. "The last time Master fired lightning, he was left badly injured. Is the Dueling Tournament not tomorrow?"

"If I do get hurt, Madam Pomfrey will heal me," Ron said as he began stepping away from Marty. "I mean, it's her job, isn't it? Plus, even in an injured state, I doubt any other third year can take me on."

"If Master is certain," Marty drew in a calming breath.

"I am certain," Ron stopped several feet away from Marty. "Now, let me focus for a moment."

There was fear in his heart, and as he began preparing himself, it went wild. Suddenly, Ron felt afraid of the risks, and his mind began to turn against itself. What if he did get hurt? What if he lost the Tournament tomorrow due to his injuries? What if he wasn't allowed to compete? What if the Spell damaged his Magical Core because of the strain? All of these negative thoughts swirled around in his mind, and Ron shot a quick look back at Marty. His Elf was scared, Ron could see it clear as day. I'm scared too… But I'm more scared of giving up my control. I'm scared of letting others dictate what I can, or can't, do.

Ron looked back ahead, and he drew in a deep breath. I can't let fear stop me. I have to be stronger than my enemies, or people will die. My loved ones will die. Ron drew in another breath, and then he pulled his left arm back. Be brave, Ron. Be strong.

"Cutis Terra," Ron chanted, and he felt his muscles solidify. Do it! "Baubillious!"

Ron thrust his left arm forward, and he felt a terrifying surge of power course from his chest, and into his left arm. From there, he felt his fingers turn red hot, but there was no pain. Instead, Ron felt the burning power exit his fingertips, and the roar of thunder nearly blew Ron's own eardrums. Blindingly hot lightning zipped through the trees, shattering and burning everything in its path. By the time Ron's eyes had adjusted back to normal, all he could see was destruction.

The air smelled so clean right now… Pure. Sort of like after a thunderstorm. As Ron scanned the destruction that he had unleashed, the smell of burning wood and tree sap filled his nostrils. The lightning had carved its way through the trees, its unpredictable trajectory had left a jagged scar upon the land. Ron slowly raised his left hand, there was no damage to his skin or muscles. So much power, and all of it in the palm of my hand. Ron didn't know why, but this revelation scared him. If I can accomplish this level of destruction, then what can the Dark Lord unleash? Pandora's final screams before the murder of her Family rang through Ron's mind, and he closed his hand into a fist. I'll unleash this destruction on the Death-Eaters first.

---

Sunday 13th December, 1993 (Hogwarts Grounds – Past Ten am)

Ron made his way down the grounds alone, he could hear excited voices coming from the filled Quidditch Pitch. He hadn't slept in, of course, but he had decided to skip people entering the castle for the Year-Based Tournaments.

Today, a majority of the parents of the Hogwarts student body were here to show their support. Ron wondered whether his own parents were here, and after he thought of Ginny and Percy, he came to the conclusion that they were. Maybe they even brought Bill, Charlie, and Kirsten. What of the twins? No, mum would never let them come. They're probably being watched over by one of the adults.

As Ron entered the doorway leading into the Pitch, he heard the sound of Spells going off. The Duels have started? Fuck, I'm clearly too late. As soon as he popped his head into the Pitch, he saw Mathias and Boris Dueling each other. A large arena had been created on-top of the Quidditch Pitch, and Ron looked up to see cheering adults sitting in the House stands. As for the student body, they were all sitting on conjured chairs around the arena. They all looked quite excited, especially the Slytherins.

Ron began making his way towards his friends, they had saved him a seat between Theo and Blaise. Eyes darted towards him from both the stands, and the student seats, but Ron simply ignored them. Third year Duels haven't started, so I'm still on time as far as I'm concerned. Ron moved past the Slytherin students, and they all quickly pulled their legs out of his way. Most of them smiled at him, and a few even looked genuinely pleased with the fact that he was here. Ron's eyes darted towards the Silver Triumvirate, and he gave them a nod when he saw the unspoken relief on their faces.

"Where were you, Ron?" Blaise whispered as Ron took his seat, he could feel his other friends staring at him as well. And all the Professors too.

"You missed the Hogwarts Song," Theo said, he didn't sound too bothered by Ron's late entry. "We had to line up and sing for the adults."

"It was quite demeaning," Tracey whispered, she was sitting on Theo's other side. "Are you alright?" Is she thinking about the conversation that we had last night?

"I'm fine," Ron replied, his eyes quickly passing over Daphne. "I just slept in." She looks relieved, but also tense at the same time. Damn.

"You slept in?" Blaise asked, and then he shook his head. "You're lucky Professor Snape isn't around, mate. He'd have ripped you a new one for this." Is it weird that I wish he was here for that? Merlin, how is it possible to miss such a cold man? I'm fucked in the head for certain.

"How are the Duels going?" Ron whispered.

"About how we expected," Theo whispered back. "Our second years are doing a lot better, much to everyone's shock. Your sister is going up against Suzie next."

"Really?' Ron looked towards the Gryffindors, and he immediately spotted his sister's fiery red hair.

She was looking at him, and the moment their eyes met, she quickly looked towards the arena. Ron just stared at her for a few seconds, and then he turned his gaze towards Percy, who too was staring at him. When their eyes met, Percy tapped his watch with a deep frown, but Ron simply shrugged. I missed all the boring tripe, which serves me just fine.

"Your sister disarmed Patty from Ravenclaw in her last match," Blaise told him. "She's all aggression, Ron. Her defense is non-existent."

"What Blaise is saying is that she hasn't learned a thing from her previous matches," Theo whispered. "This is good, Ron. We've taught the second years how to dodge, and how to seize opportunities." He's right. What did Madam Roberts tell me? Oh, yeah… Aggressive Duelists tend to make mistakes, and Opportunistic Duelists usually win because of that.

Ron looked around for Suzie, and he found her sitting a couple of rows ahead of him. I need to talk to her.

"I'll be right back," Ron told his mates, and then he stood up and began moving past the rows ahead of him.

None of the Slytherins said anything, but Ron's movements had once again garnered the attention of other people. Just as he stopped behind Suzie, she looked back at whoever was blocking her Sun. The sight of him made her relax a little, and when Ron leaned down, she moved closer to hear his advice.

"How are you feeling?" Ron whispered to her.

"I stunned my last opponent, so I feel good," she replied. "I just need to beat your sister, and I'll be in the Finals."

"Good work," Ron smiled genuinely, and she smiled back immediately. "I hear that my sister is extremely aggressive."

"She is…" Suzie's smile wavered. "She pelted Patty until the poor girl just dropped her shield, which got her disarmed almost immediately." She got bogged down, you mean.

"Then here's some advice," Ron whispered. "Let her throw her Spells at you, and only use your shield if it's unavoidable."

"You want me to let her gain the upper hand?" Suzie blinked.

"I want you to dodge, and wait," Ron explained. "Ginny gets angry quickly, so if you just smirk and keep dodging, she'll become enraged. That's when you attack back. Dodge, and wait for your moment, Suzie. Let Ginny tire herself out."

"Oh… Okay," Suzie nodded fervently, and Ron patted her shoulder as he stood back up. "Thanks, Ron."

"Thank me by winning," Ron said, and then he began making his way back.

As soon as he sat back down, his eyes drifted towards Ginny. She was staring at him openly now, her furrowed brow moving between him and Suzie. You had your chance for my help, Ginny, but you kept refusing. Don't blame me when Suzie puts you in your place.

"What did you tell her?" Malfoy whispered from Blaise's other side.

"I told her to win," Ron replied, and just as he finished, Mathias stunned Boris in the arena.

Cheers and claps emanated from both the stands, and the student seats, while Remus quickly checked up on a stunned Boris.

"That's match!" Remus announced, while Pomfrey walked into the arena in order to wake up Boris. "Mathias McCumbers wins!"

People cheered as both boys left the stage, and when Mathias spotted Ron staring at him, the second year gave Ron a respectful nod.

"If Suzie wins, will she be going up against Mathias in the Finals?" Ron asked Blaise.

"Yeah," Blaise replied. "We just need one win in this division, and a hundred Points are ours for the taking."

"Suzie Ninkovich and Ginevra Weasley! Please take up your positions!" Remus called, and both girls quickly made their way into the arena.

The Slytherins and Gryffindors cheered for their respective members, while Tracey let out a loud whistle. Bloody hell, that was really loud. Ron shot a half-smile towards Tracey, who was chanting Suzie's name.

"She's been quite supportive of our second years," Theo chuckled.

"She just needs a reason to make noise," Ron smiled more fully. "Can you whistle?"

"You want me to?" Theo asked.

"Let it rip," Ron looked towards Suzie, while Theo let out a whistle just as loud as Tracey's. "That was bloody nice."

"Thanks," Theo sniggered, while Tracey nudged Theo with a wide smile.

"Are you both ready?!" Remus asked the girls, and they both nodded. "Begin!"

As expected, Ginny came out of the gate running. Before Suzie could even finish her first incantation, Ginny had started firing stunner after stunner at the smaller girl. The Gryffindors roared with excitement, while the Slytherins just watched with furrowed brows. Keep at it, Suzie, you little devil.

"Stupefy, stupefy, stupefy!" Ginny chanted, she clearly had no plans of letting up. Look at her footing… She's not even prepared to dodge.

Suzie, just as Ron had advised, simply smirked as she kept dodging. Ginny had decent enough aim, but there was quite a lot of distance between them, and so Suzie was able to keep moving around instead of being bogged down.

"Fight back!" one of the Slytherins called out, but Suzie wisely ignored them. Keep it up.

"Incarcerous!" Ginny chanted, her wand aimed right at Suzie.

Thick black ropes fired out of Ginny's wand, but Suzie quickly repelled them with a shield. Ginny seized the opportunity to try and bog her down, but Suzie had just as quickly banished her shield as she had summoned it. Once again, Suzie began dodging Ginny's Spells with a smirk.

"What is she doing?!" one of the Gryffindors yelled. "Fight back already!"

"Stupefy!" Ginny all but screamed, her eyes fixed on Suzie's smirking face. It's working already? Temper, temper, little sister. "Expelliarmus! Stupefy!" Merlin, does she have any variation in her arsenal? "Stupefy! Stupefy!"

Suzie kept running about with a pleased smirk on her face, and now even Remus was just watching her. Ginny, having wised up a little, or just simply too angry, began closing the distance with each Spell. She wants to reduce Suzie's time to react? Clever. Suzie easily noticed Ginny closing the distance, so she began stepping backwards in order to buy herself more time. Careful… Don't corner yourself.

"What is she doing up there?" Pansy asked as she looked to Ron.

"Pissing off my sister, clearly," Ron replied, he couldn't help but feel amused at what was happening. Seriously, Suzie hasn't fired a single Spell yet. She's damn quick considering her tiny frame.

"STUPEFY!" Ginny roared, there was sweat on her brow due to excessive Magic use.

Suzie hopped out of the way of the stunner, and just as Ginny pulled her wand up to continue her assault, Suzie quickly slashed her wand upwards.

"Stupefy," Suzie huffed out, and Ginny, who was too used to being on the offensive, didn't even have time to readjust her footing.

The stunner hit Ginny's right shoulder, and it sent the redhead barreling backwards. People in the stands, and the student seats, gaped because of the abrupt end to the match, while Ron let out a loud cheer for his student. That's how you do it!

"Match!" Remus called as he ran over to Ginny's stunned form, and the Slytherins burst into whistles and applause.

"That was quite entertaining," Millie laughed, while the others clapped loudly for Suzie.

The only people who didn't look pleased were the Gryffindors, which was understandable because Slytherin had just secured a hundred House Points to add to their overwhelming lead. It doesn't matter who wins between Mathias and Suzie, they're both part of the same House. We have gotten off to a good start.

"Suzie Ninkovich wins!" Remus announced, while Pomfrey reawakened Ginny, who sat up with a confused look.

It didn't take long for Ginny to look in Ron's direction, and when she did, she saw her brother applauding for Suzie. She felt her temper flare horribly, Ron had clearly told Suzie what to do. As Ginny stood up and glared in Ron's direction, Ron simply ignored her in favor of cheering for a person who had accepted his help. Glare all you want, loser. As far as I'm concerned, you don't deserve to win this Tournament.

"She can't possibly blame you for this, can she?!" Pansy yelled over the applause.

"She's found every reason to blame Ron so far!" Theo replied for Ron. "Just ignore her!"

The applause began to die down as Suzie and Ginny returned to their seats, and judging by Ginny's expression, she was both confused and pissed off at the same time. Honestly, if Ginny had been a little more mindful of her own two feet, she could've won that match. If she had learned from me when I offered her the chance at the study group, she'd be smiling right now. Unsurprisingly, the Golden Trio were quick to try and comfort Ginny, who simply glared at the ground in front of her feet.

"We will take a quick break before the second years' Finals!" came Professor Flitwick's voice from the speakers. "Suzie Ninkovich and Mathias McCumbers are advised to regain their stamina, and to stay hydrated!"

People began chattering at that, and Ron was no different. But as he looked to Blaise, he spotted Madam Roberts standing at the bottom of the Slytherin stands. She signaled him to approach her, and so Ron quickly excused himself from his friends. Getting to her was easy enough, as everyone made sure to clear his way, which was something that Madam Roberts seemed to notice.

"Madam Roberts," Ron greeted.

"Where were you this morning?" she asked bluntly.

"At Hogwarts," Ron replied. So much for greetings.

"You missed the opening ceremony," she reminded him. "In a real Tournament, you can't show up whenever it suits you." Lie to her.

"I couldn't get out of bed," Ron lied, and she cocked an eyebrow at him. "I needed my Nutrition Potion, and even after that, I was barely able to move about. My friends went on without me, and once I could bring myself to come down here, I did."

"Are you fit to compete?" she asked.

"I hope so," Ron shrugged calmly. I'm more than fit, believe me. "Don't get your hopes up, though."

"You need to take better care of yourself," she frowned at him. "Just remember my teachings, and stay in your formation. From what I've seen so far, the Dueling education of this school is sorely lacking."

"Only those who want to learn benefit at Hogwarts," Ron said. "The rest are… mediocre."

"I have spoken to your Defense Professor, and he was adamant about his position," Madam Roberts looked towards Remus. "You are only allowed to use physical contact when Dueling the male population."

"Really?" Ron asked, he was somewhat relieved by this. I had no intention of smacking girls around anyway.

"When I pressed further, your Headmaster intervened on Professor Remus' behalf," Madam Roberts grit out. "Forgive me, Ronald, but I could not persuade those fools. They would sooner ban all physical contact than to respect the rules they set up in the first place." Well, they are teachers, and they don't want students to get hurt. "You will have to rely solely on Magic."

"And my overwhelming wit," Ron smirked, earning a dead-eyed look from Madam Roberts. "That was a joke, by the way."

"Take this seriously," she ordered, and Ron raised his hands in mock surrender. "I've had a look through the match list, and you're going up against Blaise Zabini first. What do you know about his Dueling skills?"

"He's fast, can cast some Non-Verbal Spells, and he has decent stamina," Ron replied. "Overall, he's a decent Duelist, but he lacks the ability to follow through. He wants a 'clean' victory, one that will earn him respect and adoration, but leave him looking calm and collected. He doesn't have it in him to get violent, and dirty. Oh, and he's terrified of me whenever we Duel together." He's yet to beat me in our sparring matches, even though I hold back on him. "Blaise doesn't enjoy losing, but he also doesn't give winning his all."

"So he's lazy?"

"He's… detached," Ron replied slowly. "His heart is never into any one thing."

"Put him on the defensive, then," Madam Roberts advised. "If he can't get a chance to be on the offensive, he may call it quits."

"Understood," Ron gave a subtle nod, while the second year Finals commenced.

"Why is Neville Longbottom walking over to us?" Madam Roberts suddenly asked Ron, who quickly followed her gaze. She's right, he's walking right at us.

"He probably wants to talk to me about my sister's loss," Ron figured.

"How is that his business?" Madam Roberts asked.

"Guess I'll find out soon enough," Ron looked back to her. "Thank you for coming, Madam Roberts. I won't disappoint you today, I promise."

"Make sure to keep that promise," Madam Roberts said, and then she left for the stands.

Just as she disappeared behind the covers, Neville stopped in front of Ron.

"Who was that?" Neville asked, his tone even lighter than what Ron had expected. He's not upset, which is a good sign.

"A friend," Ron replied. "What can I do for you, Neville?"

"Right to it, then," Neville shot a look towards his friends. "Look, I don't really want to be here, seeing as you did nothing wrong, but your sister is a little-"

"I'm going to stop you right there," Ron interrupted. "Tell my sister to shut the fuck up, and to lose with some honor."

Neville blinked at Ron's cold tone, his words had certainly taken the Gryffindor by surprise.

"Ron… That's your sister, mate…" Neville all but whispered.

"As far as I'm concerned, she's had every opportunity to be 'sisterly', and yet, she has always chosen to be a spoilt brat," Ron stated. "And now, she's a loser as well. I don't care about people who whine after getting their arses kicked, especially when they don't put in any effort. Tell her that, and then slap her across the face for me. Maybe that will help her realize that the World doesn't give a fuck about her entitlements, which will help her finally grow up a little."

With that, Ron began making his way towards his own friends, a pleased smirk on his face. That felt good. I bet he's still standing there with a jarred look. Ron's eyes darted towards Ginny, Harry, and Hermione, and much to his surprise, Harry and Hermione were the ones looking between Neville and Ron. Ginny is just frowning at the ground… Did Harry and Hermione send Neville over? Why? Ugh… I don't even care, actually. I don't need to explain myself to anyone.

"What did Longbottom want?" Blaise whispered as Ron took his seat.

"I think Hermione and Harry sent him over to ask me some questions," Ron shrugged. "As you clearly saw, I didn't answer said questions."

"Good," Blaise gave an approving nod. "You can't be seen speaking to the Gryffindors today, Ron. People in Slytherin expect you to show solidarity with them during this Tournament."

"I know," Ron assured Blaise. "Anyway… I hear that you and I are going up against each other first."

Blaise simply looked back to the arena, and Ron heard Theo sniggering to himself.

"He was hoping that you didn't show up today," Theo told Ron, who held back his own smirk.

"Fuck off," Blaise scoffed. "I've been preparing for this match."

"Good," Ron patted Blaise's back. "But just so know, I won't be holding back today. The French are here, and I need to show them that I'm a force to be reckoned with."

"Great…" Blaise muttered under his breath, he knew that he was fucked. Speaking of the French…

"Is your mother here?" Ron asked Blaise, who shook his head. Of course she isn't. Well, fuck that bitch, Blaise has his friends by his side.

"My mother, Theo's father, and Malfoy's parents aren't here," Blaise told Ron.

"Which is weird, because father promised me that he'd be here," Theo said, he didn't sound too bothered. He probably is bothered, but he's very good at hiding it. "Even Pansy's father is here, and she's not even competing."

"Did I hear my name?" Pansy looked to them.

"I said that you look nice today," Theo shot her a smile, and she puffed up a little.

"It's my new hair conditioner," Pansy boasted happily. "It gives my hair a lovely bounce." A bounce?

"Nice save," Ron whispered to Theo.

"Can you stop whispering, I'm trying to watch the match," Malfoy shot Ron a frown, making the redhead snigger.

"Sorry, my Lord," Ron looked back to the arena, while Blaise and Theo chuckled at Ron's 'sorry' tone.

The second years' Finals came to a stop when Mathias suddenly charged the small girl, who was a little too late to stun him. Before anyone knew what was what, Mathias had snatched the wand out of Suzie's hand with brute force. Ron wasn't going to lie, he saw nothing wrong with Mathias' strategy, but a lot of girls began booing Mathias for his harsh behavior towards a girl. Among said girls were Pansy and Tracey, but oddly enough, not Daphne. I want to give her a pep talk before the matches start, but I don't want to add more to her plate.

"That's match!" Remus called out, while Mathias handed a frowning Suzie her wand back. "Mathias wins the second years' Tournament! I hereby award Slytherin House one hundred House Points!"

The Slytherins, including the 'outraged' girls, began cheering loudly, while Ron just smiled to himself. That's one down, three more to go. If we can make four hundred House Points today, no House will stand a chance against us. At least not until the Ranked Tournaments. Ron could even hear the adults from the Slytherin stands, they would no doubt gloat about this as a victory for 'Pure-Bloods'. Idiots don't know that Mathias' mother is a Muggle-Born, or at least that's what I've been told.

"The following third years should get ready for their matches!" Remus started. "Ronald Weasley, Blaise Zabini, Hermione Granger, Daphne Greengrass, Millicent Bulstrode, Neville Longbottom, Theodore Nott, and Padma Patil!"

While Remus began to get things into order, Ron decided to throw caution to the wind. I have to talk to her, and show her my support. Ron slowly looked towards Daphne, who was clearly trying to keep her nerves in check. She's nervous, but she'll never show it.

"Tracey," Ron whispered, and Tracey turned her head towards him. "Swap with me."

Tracey blinked at him, and then she quickly caught onto what he was trying to do. Without another word, she stood up and exchanged seats with Ron. Daphne shot him a quick look as he sat down by her side, but she didn't say anything.

"Hello," Ron whispered, leaning in towards Daphne.

"Hi…"

"Are you feeling nervous?" Ron asked, making sure to keep his voice low and gentle.

"A little," Daphne slowly leaned in as well, and just like that, they were cut off from the World. "I don't like admitting this, but she's better at Magic than me…"

"That might be true, but she isn't all that creative," Ron gave his opinion, and Daphne leaned further in.

"Not creative?" Daphne whispered.

"She's very… by the books," Ron clarified. "She knows a lot of Spells, but she only showcased two during the Ranking Tournament. Remember?" Daphne nodded slowly. "I think Hermione plans to finish your match quickly, and as efficiently, as possible. That seems to be her style."

"So I should prolong the match?" Daphne asked. It's good that she's listening to me, and not thinking about our recent troubles. She must really want to win this.

"You have actual Dueling experience," Ron reminded her. "The dummies, the girls, and myself… I know that you don't enjoy Dueling, but you've learned from your previous Duels. Don't forget your lessons, Daph. Stay calm, and stay in control. Hermione isn't exactly fit, so make her run around. Let her waste her Magical Core on shields, and don't forget the trick I taught you."

"Okay," Daphne managed a weak smile.

"Hey," Ron reached forward and took her hands. "I believe in you, you know that, right?" Daphne nodded a little more firmly. "And… Don't be afraid of playing dirty…"

"What?" Daphne looked slightly surprised.

"Kick dirt into her eyes, slap her, pull her hair, punch her in the nose," Ron listed. "Up there, you're not a Lady. A win is a win."

"Ron… I'm not exactly a violent person," Daphne said. "Slapping her, or pulling her hair, sounds… wrong."

"You've attacked me before," Ron smiled a little.

"Jumping onto your back isn't exactly the same as breaking someone's nose," Daphne sighed out.

"It's just some advice," Ron whispered. "If you're not comfortable with it, it's perfectly alright."

"Ronald Weasley and Blaise Zabini! Please take up your positions!" Remus called, and Ron began to stand up.

"Don't take it too far," Daphne said, and he gave her a nod before leaving for the arena.

On the way, he found himself walking right behind Blaise.

"That pretty little arse is mine, Blaise," Ron grinned, and Blaise shot a disgusted look at Ron. "Get ready for a-"

"Merlin, I'm going to stop you right there," Blaise looked back ahead. "Just stun me, alright?"

"Are you giving up?" Ron asked, he didn't like the sound of that.

"No, but I'd rather be stunned than to be molested by a fiend," Blaise shuddered. "Just my fucking luck that I had to go up against you first…"

"It's called fate, lover," Ron sniggered, and Blaise picked up his pace. "I was joking!"

Both boys took on their positions, and Ron shot a quick look up at the Gryffindor stands. His parents, Sirius, Bill, Charlie, and Kirsten were cheering for him, and Ron found himself getting excited. Time to blow their minds with how awesome I am. Wait, where are the Greengrasses? And what about Pandora? Ron looked to the Ravenclaw stands, and much to his relief, he found Pandora and Xeno sitting amongst their old classmates. She's here! Fuck, yes! And the Greengrasses are no doubt in the Slytherin stands.

"Are you both ready?!" Remus looked between Ron and Blaise, both of whom nodded. "Begin!"

Within a second, Blaise had cast the Disillusionment Charm on himself. Oh, is that how we're playing? Ron could hear the awe of the adults from the stands, they hadn't seen a third year cast a N. E. W. T level Spell before.

"Fumos!" Ron chanted, and he felt his lungs fill up with air.

Blaise seized the opportunity to throw a Non-Verbal stunner at Ron, but it was already too late. Ron had made sure to crouch as he breathed thick, black smoke out onto the arena, effectively hiding himself from everyone. The Slytherins began cheering at Ron's showy display of power, while the adults were no doubt shocked into silence.

"Homenum Revelio," Ron aimed his wand in the direction where the stunner had come from, and he felt Blaise's presence through the thick shroud of smoke. He's not moving too much. Shame, he's too wary for his own good. I can also sense Remus out there, so I need to be careful. If I remember correctly, Remus is the one to the far left. "Cutis Terra."

Ron felt his muscles tighten, and a rush of adrenaline coursed throughout his body. Fuck it, I'll end this right now. No need to drag this out.

"Brachium Colubrum!" Ron all but yelled, and then he slammed his fists into the sand.

"Depulso!" Blaise chanted as soon as he heard Ron's voice, but by the time the smoke was banished forcefully, dozens of large ethereal serpents were lunging out towards Blaise.

Blaise's eyes widened beyond his control, but Ron didn't see it because of Blaise's Disillusionment Charm. This was new, and it was fucking terrifying. Ron could hear loud gasps from the audience, which only served to please him. On instinct, Blaise raised his shield in order to defend himself, but Ron's ghostly serpents had other plans. Ron directed a majority of them to slam headfirst into the shield in order to bog down Blaise, while a couple of them went around Blaise's shield in order to smash into the wizard himself.

Just as Blaise felt the impact on his shield, he felt one of the snakes slam headfirst into his right ankle. A pained scream was about to tear its way out of Blaise's throat, but another serpent smashed into his face, which sent Blaise rolling through the sand with a dazed look. Take him! Blaise didn't even have a chance to groan before his body was seized by the serpents, effectively pinning Blaise to the ground. I win.

"Match! Match!" Remus called off the match, and Ron immediately banished his hissing serpents.

Remus ran over to check on Blaise, as did Madam Pomfrey, while Ron simply turned his focus towards the Slytherins. Most of them looked too shocked to cheer, but when Ron cocked his eyebrow, they all began applauding him. The rest of the audience quickly followed the Slytherins' example, and Ron smiled to himself. I know that it's a terrifying Spell to witness, but I worked my arse off to learn it. I deserve at least a little applause. Now… Let's go check on Blaise.

"THAT WAS AWESOME!" one of the Gryffindor first years yelled, and every first year in the school began cheering at the top of their lungs.

Ron waved and smiled at his tutees before walking over to Blaise, who was being tended to by both Remus and Pomfrey.

"Are you alright?" Ron asked his mate, who gave him a dead-eyed look. Madam Pomfrey works fast.

"Have you heard of restraint, you prick?" Blaise asked him, and Ron couldn't help but snigger. He's definitely trying to act cool and collected… But I can see that he was shocked by the scale of my Spell.

"He's fine," Ron said, while Pomfrey clicked her tongue at Blaise's language.

"Is he?" Remus looked to Pomfrey for confirmation, and she gave him a nod. "Good, help him find his seat, please."

"I can do that," Ron volunteered.

"Madam Pomfrey can do that, I need to talk to you for a moment," Remus stood up, and Ron shot a quick look towards Madam Roberts. Is he planning to disqualify me? No, I haven't done anything wrong. He probably has questions about my use of the Dark Arts.

Remus and Ron walked over to the center of the arena, while Madam Pomfrey helped Blaise back to his seat. The crowd was already speculating on what Remus was saying to Ron, and Ron couldn't help but feel Madam Roberts' glare fixed on Remus.

"Ron, who taught you that?" Remus asked, a dead serious look on his face.

"I taught myself," Ron replied truthfully. "You've seen me use that Spell before, Professor. I've just improved on it over time." I'll keep Cutis Terra to myself. It gives me too strong an advantage to give up.

"You taught yourself how to summon a pit of Cursed Vipers?" Remus asked, his expression unchanged.

"A pit? I think you're exaggerating a little," Ron held back a chuckle. Don't laugh, Ron, he looks really serious.

"Ron, be serious," Remus frowned a little. "That was the Dark Arts in its purest form… Hogwarts doesn't allow its students to delve into the Dark Arts, and then to use said Dark Arts on fellow students." Uh-oh.

"Am I disqualified?" Ron asked, losing his own humor. "If so, then you should ban all Curses as well, because technically, they are also considered the Dark Arts. No… Wait… This rule must only apply to me. Just like you handicapping me against all female students."

"What?" Remus blinked. Keep going, Ron. Don't let him walk all over you.

"I had no intention of using physical strength on the female students, but the fact that you banned only me from doing so is utter tripe," Ron told Remus. "And now, you have a problem with me using Magic as well. Do you want me to just forfeit?"

"Ron, calm down," Remus sighed out, why was he so quick to anger?

"No, in my next match, I'll just drop my pants and bend over," Ron said coldly, and Remus drew in a deep breath.

"Just go back to your seat… We'll talk about this after the Tournaments," Remus said, and then he left to call up the next competitors.

Ron made his way out of the arena, a bored look on his face. Honestly, why are people such weak bitches? I work harder than anyone here, and yet, they want to reward the weak. Everyone gets a medal so that no one's feelings get hurt. Piss on that. If you can't be fucked learning stronger Magic, then you need to step aside and know your place. As Ron neared the Slytherin seats, Daphne crossed his path as she made her way towards the arena. Wish her luck like a good boyfriend.

"You can do this," Ron smiled without even thinking, and Daphne gave him a slow nod. She's clearly surprised by my Spell. "Good luck, Daph."

"Thanks," Daphne said, and Ron could sense her nervousness. The moment of truth is here, so it's completely natural for her to worry. Let's just hope that she doesn't lose because of her fears.

"You alright?" Ron asked Blaise as he sat down, but before Blaise could reply, Theo jumped in.

"Please tell me that you don't have any more surprises hidden away," Theo said quickly, and Ron simply shot him a smirk. "Ugh…"

"Ron, that was really amazing!" Pansy beamed at him, while Tracey and Millie looked rather wary of him. I wonder how Malfoy is taking it.

Ron looked towards Malfoy, and the platinum-blonde wizard quickly looked back to the arena. Hehe, he's definitely shaken.

"Are you two ready?" Remus asked Hermione and Daphne, and Ron suddenly focused on the Duel. "Begin!"

"Stupe-" Daphne started, but Hermione fired a Non-Verbal stunner before Daphne could finish.

Daphne dodged without giving away her nervousness, and Hermione quickly pressed forward. Unlike previous Duels, Hermione was a lot more aggressive this time around. Stunner after stunner fired out of Hermione's wand, and Daphne could do little but dodge. C'mon, Daph… Don't let her run the Duel.

"Rictusempra!" Daphne suddenly fired the Tickling Charm as she finished dodging a stunner, and Hermione brought up a Non-Verbal shield.

Daphne managed to fire one stunner before Hermione quickly banished her shield in order to start throwing Non-Verbal stunners again. Once more, Daphne was forced to keep dodging. Bloody hell, Hermione isn't leaving any windows open. She's so quick with her Non-Verbal stunners.

"Granger's learned not to rely on her shields too much," Malfoy pointed out. I know, and that doesn't bode well for Daphne.

"Go, Daphne!" Astoria cheered, and most of the Slytherins joined her.

The Gryffindors, seeing the Slytherins cheer for their House-mate, began cheering for Hermione, with Harry being the loudest. Ron couldn't help but notice that Ginny hadn't joined in on the cheering, she was too busy looking sour with her defeat. Ignore it, Ron, focus on Daphne. Ron's girlfriend was currently trying to get a simple stunner in, but Hermione refused to relent. Unlike Ginny, Hermione's barrage wasn't driven by aggression, but rather by strategy. Ron could see that Hermione was still aware enough to defend herself at any given moment, but due to her Non-Verbal Spellcasting, she had Daphne right where she wanted. Fuck it, time to intervene a little.

"Let her tire herself out, Daph!" Ron called out, and both girls seemed to have heard him. There… Hermione being Hermione will definitely think too hard about that.

"Don't let up, Hermione!" Harry called from the Gryffindor seats. "You've got her on the ropes!" Damn you, Harry Potter!

"Quiet!" Remus ordered, his eyes fixed on the Duel.

"Impedimenta!" Daphne finally managed to cast a Spell, but just as Ron had predicted, Hermione was ready to defend herself at a moment's notice.

With a simple slash of her wand, Hermione raised another shield, effectively stopping the Slowing Jinx.

"Ventus!" Daphne aimed her wand at Hermione's feet, and a gust of wind fired out of Daphne's wand.

Sand flew all over the damn place, but Ron was too busy admiring Daphne's use of unused Charms and Jinxes. She's clever enough to use Spells that regular people don't really utilize. C'mon, Daphne, use that cunning of yours! Hermione kept her shield up in order to block the gust of sand being sent her way, and Daphne realized that this was her chance to try Ron's trick.

"Stupefy! Stupefy! Expelliarmus!" Daphne chanted, and Hermione kept her powerful shield in place. "Stupefy! Finite Incantatem! Stupefy!"

Ron didn't know if Daphne had planned this, or not, but seeing the chain of Spells unfold was quite marvelous. Stunners, just like Finite Incantatem, came out of wands as red bolts of light. Hermione blocked each of the stunners with relative ease, but she mistook the General Counter-Spell as a stunner, which resulted in her shield being blown apart before her very eyes. Hermione shrieked loudly as she ducked, and Daphne's final stunner barely missed her head. Damn it, that was so close!

"Get her!" Ron yelled out.

"Expelliarmus! Stupefy! Ventus!" Daphne began taking steps forward after each Spell, just like Ron had taught her.

Hermione was clearly rattled by what had just happened, because instead of blocking with her shield, she began leaping from side to side. The Disarming Charm and the stunner missed her, but Hermione was pelted by a strong gust of wind and sand.

"Protego!" Hermione put up another shield, she was covered from head to toe in sand.

"Stupefy! Stupefy! Finite Incantatem! Stupefy!" Daphne closed the distance even more, and Hermione let out another shriek as her shield exploded. Hermione has no experience in a Duel, just as I figured. This is good! Daphne can win if she plays this right!

The Slytherins roared with cheers and applause just as Hermione rolled out of the way of a stunner, Daphne had regained her ground in the Duel. Stunners, followed by gusts of sand, were used by Daphne in order to force Hermione to keep jumping around, and even the first years could tell that Hermione was getting tired. Her early aggression is catching up with her. Daphne's in better shape than Hermione, despite being a little bigger.

"Ventus!" Daphne once again blew sand all over Hermione, and the Gryffindor raised another shield in order to avoid being pelted by sand. "Stupefy! Finite Incantatem! Stupefy! Accio Hermione Granger's robes!"

Hermione shrieked once again as her robes tried to rip away from her, and the Slytherins burst into loud laughter. Keep it up! Play dirty if you have to, but don't lose! Hermione's robes stopped tugging for freedom just as Daphne continued her assault, and Hermione continued to dodge with far too much gusto. She's panicking.

"Hermione! Stay calm! Dodge with small steps!" Harry called out, and Hermione seemed to have heard him, because her next dodge was a lot more subtle.

"Hit back, Hermione!" came Finnegan's voice. "Use stunners to-"

"Silence!" Remus scolded the advice givers.

Sadly, Remus' warning had come too late, because Hermione had listened to Finnegan and fired a random stunner at Daphne. The Slytherin girl managed to dodge it, but it gave Hermione the chance she needed to start throwing Spells Non-Verbally. Ron nearly pulled at his own hair when he saw how quickly Hermione began to overpower Daphne, the Gryffindor girl looked extremely pissed off. They're quite close to each other, and if Daphne rushes her, I bet Hermione would be caught off-guard.

"Punch her!" Ron got riled up. "Punch her in the fucking head, Daphne!"

"Finite Incantatem," Daphne muttered under her breath as she dodged a stunner, and then she fired the General Counter-Curse at Hermione.

Once again, Hermione saw a bright red light, and so she immediately put up a shield in order defend herself. Daphne charged the slightly smaller girl, and just as the shield broke apart, Daphne threw herself on Hermione with a ferocious look. Everyone who was watching went dead-silent as Daphne's left fist collided with Hermione's lower jaw, and both girls tumbled to the ground rather unceremoniously. She bloody punched Hermione! Ron bit back genuine laughter, he had no idea why the sight of Daphne throwing her Ladyship to the wind amused him so much, but he knew that laughing right now wasn't a smart move.

Daphne quickly shot up to her feet, and oddly enough, there was a bewildered look on her face. As for Hermione, the Gryffindor sat up with an equally surprised look. Hermione didn't look hurt, but rather, she looked truly confused by what Daphne had just done. Remus looked between the two girls, and when he noticed that Hermione had dropped her wand in the scuffle, he raised his hand into the air.

"That's match!" Remus announced, but people were rather slow to applaud for Daphne.

Ron, however, was clapping and cheering almost immediately. She actually fucking won, and all it took was a 'disgraceful' punch. Hermione looked absolutely gobsmacked by what was happening around her, while Daphne slowly curled into a ball in order to cover her aching hand. Is she hurt? Ron stopped applauding just as Remus quickly crouched down by the two girls. Whatever he said to them made them even more confused, and that's when Madam Pomfrey came to the rescue. The whole school watched in silence as Daphne's hand was healed by the Matron of the Hospital Wing, while Remus helped Hermione up to her feet.

"Daphne Greengrass wins!" Remus announced, and Hermione looked like she had been slapped. Wait… Technically speaking, she did get punched just then.

The Slytherins began cheering loudly at that, but the Gryffindors called 'foul' on Daphne for resorting to physical violence. Daphne clearly heard the Gryffindors, but she was smart enough to ignore all of them.

"I can't believe she just punched Granger," Tracey muttered, and then she snorted.

"Don't laugh," Pansy quickly shushed Tracey. "Daphne doesn't look too proud of herself for resorting to such unladylike methods."

"Would it be more ladylike to get floored?" Ron asked the girls, a pleased smile on his face.

"Well, not really-"

"No, it wouldn't be," Millie said firmly.

"If it works, don't fix it," Malfoy stated coldly. Exactly.

"Millicent Bulstrode and Neville Longbottom, please come up!" Remus called, and Ron spotted Daphne making her way over to them.

Millie patted Daphne's back along the way, but Daphne seemed to be in a trance of some sort. I think she's shocked at herself for losing control like that.

"Welcome back, Muhammad Ali," Tracey grinned at Daphne, who broke out of her stupor.

"Who?" Daphne asked, while the others looked to Tracey with confused looks.

"Never mind," Tracey chuckled, and then she pulled Daphne down to her chair. "I can't believe you just did that! It was great!"

"Great?" Daphne mumbled, and then she looked up to the Slytherin stands.

All of them followed her gaze, and they all saw Daphne's mother frowning at her daughter for throwing punches. Lord Greengrass, on the other hand, seemed quite pleased judging by his smirk. He's like me. He's sees victory as a victory, no matter how it's achieved. Daphne broke no rules by throwing that punch, which makes it a fair win.

"Merlin… Mother looks disgusted," Daphne looked back to the arena, and only Pansy seemed to understand Daphne's predicament.

"Sometimes, you just have to smack a bitch," Theo sniggered, making Tracey giggle hysterically. "Have you been reading Millie's boxing-?"

"Theo, stop teasing her," Ron whispered, and Theo raised his hands in mock surrender.

"Don't worry, you're father seems pleased with your victory," Blaise said to Daphne, but she still had a distant look about her. Wow… I guess she really didn't want to stoop so 'low'.

Ron shot a quick look towards Hermione, and he spotted her just sitting in her chair with a dull look on her face. Someone pat her down… She's got sand all over her. Truth be told, Ron wasn't really surprised by Hermione's reaction, he knew that she didn't handle loss very well. I mean, she hated my guts without even knowing who I was. Not to mention her various tantrums over the last two years. In a way, I respect her need to be the best, but she needs to understand that losing is a part of winning. Hell, I've lost to dummies before.

"Are you both ready?!" Remus looked between Millie and Neville, and when they both nodded, Remus started the match.

Millie was quicker than Neville, so it was hardly surprising when she immediately put Neville on the defensive. What was surprising, however, was the fact that Neville began dodging her Spells with quick side hops.

"Nice, Nev!" Harry cheered, and the Gryffindors began cheering as well. Ah, Harry… He must have spoken to Neville after Hermione's defeat. "Keep that up!"

Millie suddenly stopped her assault, her eyes fixed on Neville, who quickly stopped hopping around. Um… What's this? They both stared at each other for a few moments, and then Millie took on a genuine Dueling stance. Woah… She looks like one of those boxers from her books. Millie was constantly moving her feet up and down, and from side-to-side, something that seemed to alarm Neville. She looks damn ready to start dodging some Spells. I bet she came up with this stance in secret.

"Stupefy!" Neville suddenly fired a stunner, and Millie did a quick 'bob-and-weave' maneuver to side-step the red Spell.

"That's quite neat," Blaise commentated, and Ron nodded his agreement.

"Go, Millie!" Pansy screamed loudly, her hands clapping in excitement.

"Stupefy! Colloshoo!" Neville fired two Spells back to back, and Millie, in a rather graceful manner, bob-and-weaved past the Spells. It looks really fluid, and she's closing the distance between them. I can't let her do that to me if we Duel each other.

As soon as she dodged the Colloshoo Hex, Millie released a barrage of Non-Verbal stunners, which Ron had actually helped her learn. Neville quickly began hopping around again, he seemed to be one hop ahead at all times. He either dodges, or he attacks. Tsk… That's not good. He's letting her run the Duel without even realizing it. Millie fired two stunners at Neville, and although they looked quite weaker than her usual Verbal stunners, Neville still kept dodging them.

"Glacius," Millie suddenly aimed her wand at where Neville was about to land, and thin ice began to form over the sand.

Neville's feet slipped as soon as he landed, he had been too focused on dodging her Spells to outthink her. The Gryffindor landed on his side rather harshly, and Millie wasted no time in throwing a Non-Verbal stunner at him.

"Prote-" Neville started, but the stunner hit him right in the sternum.

Due to its weakened state, it didn't stun Neville, but it did send him rolling through the sand.

"Stupefy!" Millie fired another stunner, and this one hit Neville on his back.

"Match!" Remus called as Neville rolled through the sand again.

"Ouch," Theo pulled a face. "He was already down… She didn't need to peg him again."

"Aw, Theo's upset over his Herbology pal," Tracey laughed, making the others snigger at Theo. She got him, hehe!

"Haha," Theo drawled, clearly not amused.

"Millicent Bulstrode wins!" Remus announced, and the Slytherins burst into applause.

"That's my daughter!" came a booming voice from the Slytherin stands, and Millie shot a panicked look towards her father.

The pot-bellied man was giving his daughter a standing ovation, while the people around him looked rather embarrassed by his crass behavior. Even Lady Bulstrode was trying to pull her husband back down to his seat, but the man was intent on cheering for Millie. It might be embarrassing, but he's allowed to show his pride. Ron looked over to Millie again, and he noticed her quickly making her way back to her friends. She's flushed.

"He's so embarrassing," Millie whispered to Pansy as she quickly sat down and hid her face.

"He's just being supportive," Pansy laughed.

"In the worst way possible," Millie mumbled. "Even mother is trying to stop him…"

"Theodore Nott and Padma Patil, please come up!" Remus called.

"Time to make this a completely Slytherin based Tournament," Theo stood up with a smirk.

"Just be careful," Ron said, but Theo had already sauntered off.

"He's going to get his face Hexed off if he underestimates her," Malfoy said to Ron, who nodded his agreement. "I went up against her in the Ranking matches, and she's got a decent arsenal of Spells." She did beat Malfoy, so it's not surprising that he would say that.

"Theo's faster, and he's got experience," Blaise countered. "If he does lose, it'll be because of his arrogance."

"You dated her, what can-?"

"Let's not bring that up," Blaise gave Ron a bored look. "We didn't discuss her arsenal of Spells when we were dating."

"Maybe if you had, you'd have lasted longer," Malfoy quipped, making Ron snort.

"You're rather chatty all of a sudden," Blaise shot Malfoy a frown.

"Blaise, don't be mean just because he got you," Ron sniggered, and Malfoy's lips twitched upwards.

"Want me to move for your new boyfriend?" Blaise asked Ron.

"New? Are you suggesting that you're my old one?" Ron asked, and Malfoy 'cleared' his throat.

"I'm just going to ignore you both," Blaise looked back to the arena, while Ron and Malfoy were left rather amused.

"Are you both ready?" Remus asked Theo and Padma, and Theo smirked instead of nodding. "Right… Begin!"

"Stupe-" Theo started, but Padma fired a Non-Verbal stunner straight for his face. "Ah!"

Theo all but dived out of the way, his surprise written on his face. The Ravenclaws began cheering, while Ron felt the urge to smack his own forehead. Bloody Theodore Nott… He better win this. Theo quickly began dodging her assault, his wand aimed at his own chest. Is he…? Theo suddenly vanished from sight, and Padma halted her assault in order to raise a shield.

Silence crept over the arena, and Ron could see Padma looking around with her eyes peeled. She doesn't know the Human-Presence-Revealing Spell? Actually, I only know it because of Sturgis Podmore. After a few seconds of hiding behind her shield, Padma suddenly waved her wand from side-to-side, releasing small jets of fire with Incendio. Oddly enough, no shields went up from Theo's end. Where the fuck did he go? Padma shot a look towards Remus, but the Defense Professor gave nothing away.

"Glaci-" Padma started, but a stunner shot out of the ground and hit her in the chest. What the fuck?!

Padma was sent reeling through the air, and the moment she landed, Theo became visible. This prick… Wow. That was good.

"Match!" Remus called, and the Slytherins burst into cheers.

"He went full commando," Tracey said as she watched Theo laying on his stomach.

"What's a commando?" Pansy asked, and Tracey let out a sigh.

"Muggle stuff…" Tracey shook her head, while Theo sprang up to his feet.

"Is that legal?" Blaise asked Ron, who had no idea.

"No clue, but it was clever," Ron replied.

"Theodore Nott wins!" Remus announced, and Ron and Blaise gave each other nods. Guess it is legal to lie down mid-Duel.

The Slytherins kept cheering, mostly because another hundred House Points had been secured. Gryffindor and Ravenclaw were not too pleased by this, but they applauded out of courtesy. Theo sauntered up to Padma, who had just been awakened by Madam Pomfrey, and he put his hand forward for a shake. Classic Theo. He wants to promote himself even after using a dirty trick to win. Padma shook Theo's hand out of politeness, and the weedy boy smiled rather genuinely. A bunch of the Slytherins began laughing, while Padma quickly left for her seat. Theo, on the other hand, strolled back to his seat with a pleased look.

"I'm a God," Theo told his friends as he took his seat, and they all rolled their eyes.

"Nice squeal at the start, Mr. God," Ron chuckled, but Theo didn't lose his smugness.

"All part of the plan, mate," Theo shrugged casually. "I wanted her to drop her guard."

"Which, incidentally, is the only way that you'll get lucky with girls," Tracey sniggered, making the others laugh. Ha, Tracey with the solid banter!

"Did she just call me a rapist?" Theo asked Ron, who just laughed and nodded. "Jealous pricks, the lot of you."

"Third years, we will be taking a short recess before the semi-finals!" came Professor Flitwick's voice. "You have five minutes to stretch your limbs, or take care of any necessities!"

"Ron, can we talk?" Daphne immediately asked Ron, who gave her a slow nod. She still looks bothered… Why? She won, didn't she? "Let's go talk over there."

"Sure," Ron stood up, making sure to ignore his friends' awkward looks.

They made their way over to where Ron and Madam Roberts had spoken before, and once they were away from everyone's earshot, Ron turned to face his distressed girlfriend.

"What's wrong?" Ron asked, doing his best to sound gentle. "You don't look very happy with your win."

"Because I'm not," Daphne shot a quick look to the Gryffindors. "She left…" What?

Ron looked over to Hermione's seat, and he found it empty. Not just her, but Harry, Neville, and Ginny have left as well.

"She probably went to take a shower," Ron said. "I mean, she was covered in sand."

"Do you really believe that?" Daphne asked him. No… I don't.

"Daph, tell me what's wrong," Ron took a step forward.

"I punched a person in the face, Ron," Daphne reminded him. "Everyone saw me lash out like a brute…"

"Physical contact is allowed, Daphne," Ron said calmly. "You didn't break any rules, nor did you cheat Hermione out of her win. You both traded a lot of good Spells, and trust me, everyone was on the edge of their seats. It was a great Duel, and you won in the end."

"My mother has been staring at me," Daphne whispered. "I punched a person… And I did it right in front of the entire school."

"In the arena, there are no Ladies," Ron sighed out. "Daph, don't ruin this for yourself because you acted a little out of character. These things happen."

"I heard you," Daphne said softly, and Ron blinked. "I heard you telling me to punch her, and I just went for it. I don't even like Granger, but I feel really guilty." Daphne then drew in a deep breath. "I hit her so hard…" Really?

"She looked more confused than hurt," Ron said truthfully. "Look, if you want, you can apologize to her later, but right now, what's done is done."

"Apologize?" Daphne repeated.

"Or not," Ron quickly amended his mistake. Wait… Maybe I can solve an ongoing issue here. "You know… Hermione apologized for hurting you with her explosive stunt back in second year…"

"Yes, but she waited almost a year," Daphne countered.

"Then apologize next year," Ron smiled a little. Please, cheer up. I hate this weird cloud of melancholy around us ever since our chat about my impending death.

"I just thought that if I won, I'd win using Magic," Daphne rubbed her left arm. "Can I tell you a secret?"

"Of course," Ron gave a nod.

"She was going to beat me, I know it," Daphne admitted. "You know it too, right?" Lie!

"Yes…" Ron told the truth, and Daphne nodded to herself. "Hey… Magic is all well and good, but if physical contact is allowed, then you'd be a fool to not take advantage of that. And Daphne Greengrass is no fool, is she?"

"No," Daphne's voice sounded a little lighter.

"You won," Ron put his hands on her shoulders. "You played by the rules, and using your cunning, you defeated an opponent who was more skilled than you. I am proud of you, and I know for certain that so is your father. Did you see him up there?" Daphne nodded. "He was smirking like he does at my Chess Tournaments."

"Maybe I'm thinking too much about this," Daphne said to herself, and Ron rubbed the sides of her arms. "Thanks, Ron. I feel a little better about how it all ended."

"Good," Ron smiled more fully. "Now you just have to beat me."

"Wait…" Daphne suddenly realized that she was Dueling her boyfriend next. Oh, yes… I should tease her a bit, just to make her smile. "Ron-"

"I'm going to body-slam you into the dirt," Ron grinned, and Daphne's mouth hung open. C'mon, retort to that.

"Yeah? Well, I'll elbow you in the manly bits," Daphne narrowed her eyes. "Again."

"Why do you always come back to my genitals?" Ron asked her, and she huffed in indignation.

"You better not embarrass me," Daphne said, her tone losing its 'bite'. "And don't hurt me like you hurt Blaise."

"I didn't hurt him," Ron denied. "Sure, I knocked him around a bit, but he's fine. He and I have been talking constantly while you brooded."

"I don't brood," Daphne clicked her tongue. "That's your territory."

Ron went to make a snarky comment, but the sound of someone clearing their throat from behind him made him stop. Daphne and Ron turned their attention to Madam Roberts, who was waiting for their conversation to end. Was she listening to us?

"Might I speak with my student?" Madam Roberts asked Daphne, but it didn't sound like a request.

"Certainly, Madam Roberts," Daphne gave a polite nod, and then she left for her seat. Is Daphne scared of Madam Roberts? Well, so am I, actually.

"Were you listening to us?" Ron asked his tutor.

"I'd rather eat broken glass than to listen to your angst-ridden relationship," Madam Roberts said coldly.

"Who hurt you?" Ron asked her, but she ignored his comment.

"What did your Professor want?" Madam Roberts asked.

"He was not pleased with my use of the Dark Arts," Ron replied. "I think if I try that Spell again, he'll disqualify me."

"The fuck he will," Madam Roberts scoffed, her American accent coming through. "You are not breaking any rules, Ronald, so don't let him walk all over you. I spoke with your Headmaster, and he seems quite pleased with your Magical capabilities." Of course he is, he wants the French to stay away from me.

"Either way, I don't plan to use Brachium Colubrum again," Ron admitted. "I have a couple of Spells that I want to try out." I can't wait to pull out Lumos Solem! No one is going to be ready for the sheer awesomeness of that Spell.

"Just don't lose," Madam Roberts ordered. "Better wizard than you have died trying to show off."

"Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning?" Ron asked. "No… You probably didn't get a chance to suck someone's soul out for breakfast."

"Are you calling me a Dementor?" she cocked an eyebrow.

"Well, you are leeching my happiness," Ron remarked, a grin appearing on his face.

"If only your skills were as sharp as your tongue," Madam Roberts shot back, and then she left for the stands. Damn it, she got the last word.

Ron began making his way back to his seat, but just as he neared the Slytherin student body, Remus restarted the Dueling Tournament.

"Ronald Weasley and Daphne Greengrass, please come up!" Remus called, and the students began making excited noises. Yeah, yeah… A couple are being forced to Duel each other.

Ron waited for Daphne to catch up to him, and then they both made their way into the arena.

"Don't be mean," Daphne whispered before parting ways with Ron, who just smiled to himself. It still feels a little awkward, but we're both trying to look past our argument for now. I guess that's the best I can hope for until we have another proper chat.

"Are you both ready?" Remus asked them, and they both nodded. I'll disarm her instead of stunning her. "Begin!"

"Stup-" Daphne started, but Ron immediately fired a Non-Verbal stunner at her.

Daphne dodged it quickly, but Ron decided to not let up for now. Remember the Chain, Ron. Stupefy, Expelliarmus, Flipendo! Rinse and repeat, but then suddenly change the order of Spells. Just like her previous Duel, Daphne found herself dodging a barrage of Spells. After nearly twenty seconds of going through this, Daphne began to scowl in annoyance. Time to slow down. Ron subtly slowed down in order to give Daphne a small window to fight back, and she being a Slytherin, quickly seized the opportunity.

"Ventus!" Daphne chanted, sending a gust of sand at Ron. Same old trick?

"Protego," Ron chanted calmly, and as his shield blocked the sand, Ron drew in a calming breath.

"Stupefy! Finite Incantatem! Stupefy!" Daphne chanted, and Ron dropped his shield without a second thought. I should teach her to not yell out her Spells. As it happens, yelling doesn't actually make one's Spells stronger.

Ron dodged with practiced ease, while Daphne prepared to launch another barrage of Spells. Ron interrupted her with a Non-Verbal Disarming Charm, which she quickly dodged.

"Baubillious," Ron aimed his wand at her, and bright, yellow-white electricity fired out of the tip of his wand. Fuck, that's so weak compared to the Wandless Variation.

"Protego!" Daphne quickly summoned a shield, and the electricity cracked off of her shield.

"Go, Daphne!" Tori screamed from the Slytherin seats, while Tracey let out another loud whistle.

"Teach him some humility!" came Clara's laughter, and Ron fought the urge to roll his eyes. Betrayed by my own Mentor.

"Colloshoo!" Daphne chanted quickly, and Ron summoned a Non-Verbal shield to protect himself.

Daphne quickly tried to use his trick against him, but Ron shoved his shield forward at her.

"Finite Incantatem!" Daphne managed to shatter the incoming shield in time. Too much distance between us. Time to disarm her.

"Cutis Terra," Ron whispered under his breath, and his entire body felt like stone.

"Expelliarmus!" Daphne and Ron both chanted, but Ron's Disarming Charm tore Daphne's to pieces.

Surprisingly, she managed to dodge in time, a slightly scared look on her face. She's being extra cautious against me. Good, she might not enjoy Dueling, but she is smart enough to remember her lessons. Ron began walking forward as he restarted his Chaining, and Daphne had less and less time to dodge his Spells. Eventually, she caved in and fired a Disarming Charm mid-dodge, but Ron backhanded it out of existence with his free hand. And just like that, Daphne's wand was ripped out of her hand by Ron's well-aimed Disarming Charm.

"Match!" Remus announced, and Ron quickly undid Cutis Terra.

A jolt of pain shot throughout his body, and Ron clenched his jaw because of it. Shite, already? Maybe it's because I've barely slept, and I did practice a lot last night. Damn it, just power through the pain.

"Ronald Weasley wins!" Remus called out, and the spectators all began to applaud Ron and Daphne. "Millicent Bulstrode and Theodore Nott, you're up next!"

Daphne walked up to Ron with an expressionless look, but judging by her calm walk, he knew that she wasn't upset with her loss. I did well by just disarming her. Plus, she did quite well if I do say so myself.

"Can I have my wand back?" Daphne put her right hand forward.

"Nah, it's mine now," Ron teased, though his voice came out a little strained. Don't be a bitch, Ron… Fucking bear with it.

"Are you alright?" Daphne asked with a slightly worried look.

"Yeah," Ron shrugged. "I'm keeping your wand."

"What? No," Daphne reached for it, but Ron hid it behind his back. "Ron… Give it back."

"No," Ron began making his way towards the Slytherin seats, and Daphne fought to keep her smile from showing. "I'll put this in my trophy case, I reckon." After all, I did gain one last night, and only I can open it.

"What trophy case? You give your trophies to Hogwarts," Daphne reminded him, and then she reached for her wand again.

"If you can reach for it, then you can have it," Ron said with a playful smile, and then he hovered her wand above her head.

"I'm not jumping in public," Daphne huffed out.

"Shame, there's nothing better than seeing you jump," Ron sniggered, and Daphne cocked an eyebrow.

And then, the true meaning of his words hit her, and she rolled her eyes.

"Pervert," Daphne clicked her tongue, it felt good to talk to him again.

"Good luck on your match," Ron said as they passed by Theo and Millie.

"This is going to be great," Millie smiled at Ron and Daphne, while Theo seemed a little less smug.

"I think Theo's scared," Daphne giggled.

"I don't blame him," Ron smiled at hearing her laughter. "I'm scared of Millie as well."

"Really?" Daphne smirked. No, but I'd be stupid if I underestimated her. She's come a long way from the shy girl who barely spoke around us.

"Totally," Ron replied. "You still want your wand?"

"Are you going to ask me to jump?" Daphne asked in response.

"Could you blame me?" Ron grinned.

"Honestly, are all boys like you?" Daphne asked him.

"Yeah, pretty much," Ron replied. Even Malfoy can appreciate Daphne's assets, and he's a ponce.

"What would you do if some other boy spoke to me like this?" Daphne asked him.

"I'd become a professional ventriloquist," Ron replied, and Daphne waited for him to explain. "I'd shove my hand up their-"

"Colorful as always, Ron," Daphne interrupted, though she sounded quite lively.

As they neared their seats, Daphne looked to Tracey with a meaningful look.

"Can you move over a spot, please?" Daphne asked her best friend. "I'd like to sit with Ron." Really?

"No worries," Tracey vacated her seat a bit too quickly.

"Thanks, Trace," Ron said as he sat down, and then he handed Daphne her wand back.

She took it, and once she had pocketed it, she took his gloved hand into hers. This feels good for now. I know that eventually, we'll have the 'death talk' again, but right now, I'm just glad that she's behaving a little more like herself again.

"Are you two ready?!" Remus asked, and Ron immediately looked to the arena. "Begin!"

Millie started off strong with a three Non-Verbal Stunners, and while Theo dodged them, Millie took on her stance. Theo, being who he was, just smirked arrogantly at her. He wants to goad her, I think. Honestly, I can't be sure because he's too unpredictable. Millie seemed to share Ron's thoughts, because she simply stepped from side-to-side. Theo's smirk turned into a smile, and Millie furrowed her brow.

"He's messing with her?" Daphne asked Ron.

"I don't know," Ron replied. "He's faster, and has more stamina, so Millie needs to finish this quickly."

"Colloshoo!" Theo chanted, his wand aimed at Millie's moving feet.

Millie did a fast dodge to the right before flicking her wand upwards, and Theo ducked past her stunner. They both traded a couple of stunners and Disarming Charms, but it was obvious that neither of them were committing just yet. Millie was being cautious, as she always in Duels, while Theo was clever enough to understand that she could take a hit better than he could. Millie suddenly began throwing a barrage of weak, Non-Verbal stunners at Theo, all the while closing the distance as best she could. Damn, that looks so fluid. I should copy her, I reckon.

"Protego Maxima!" Theo suddenly aimed his wand at the ground, and then he yanked it up.

A light blue, ghostly wall became erect out of nowhere, and even Ron was a little taken a back. Millie's stunners shattered against the wall upon contact, and Theo quickly began to back off in order to regain some distance from her. Even Remus looked impressed with Theo's use of such a powerful Shield Charm, while Ron figured that Theo had learned his lesson from Dueling Hermione. Millie, who was clearly surprised by this shield wall, quickly refocused on the task at hand. Use Finite!

"Finite Incantatem!" Millie fired a red bolt of Anti-Magic at the wall, but as it turned out, Theo had been hoping for that.

The moment he saw Millie target his shield wall, he began throwing Hexes and Curses of all sorts at her. By the time the wall of Magic was dispersed, Theo's barrage was already heading for Millie. The slightly muscled girl was forced to dive out of the way, her stance broken by Theo's strategy. Theo suddenly adorned a ferocious look as he became almost feral in his desire to take her out. Ron, and his friends, were genuinely surprised to see his ferocity, and they all slowly exchanged looks. Can't say that I've seen him look so pissed before… Bloody hell. We underestimated him, and clearly, so did Millie. As for Millie, she was barely able to keep up with his practiced speed.

"Protego!" Millie chanted as she took a wary step back, but Theo was just hammering her with Spell after Spell.

"Mimble Wimble! Diffindo! Stupefy! Finite Incantatem! Gemino!" Theo kept closing the gap, and by using Ron's trick, he kept Millie on the defensive.

Just as her shield was shattered by the General Counter-Spell, Theo greatly multiplied the sand behind her feet with the Doubling Charm. Fuck me, he's clearly made strategies prior to this. Millie, who was trying to regain some distance, stepped on the uneven ground without watching her footing, and she tumbled onto her arse.

"Protego!"

"Titillando! Diffindo! Finite Incantatem!" Theo all but ran at her, and just as her shield shattered, Theo booted her on the side of her face.

Ron shot out of his seat out of sheer shock, while the girls gasped loudly.

"STUPEFY!" Theo smashed a stunner into Millie's chest, completely flattening her against the sand.

"Match!" Remus rushed Theo, and then he pushed the weedy boy out of his way with a genuinely angry look. He fucking kicked her in the head! "Poppy! Come up here!"

No one cheered, not even the adults. All people could do was stare at Theo, who just stood quietly with his eyes fixed on an unconscious Millie.

"He kicked her…" Pansy muttered, and then her stare turned into a glare. "He kicked her, Ron!"

"I know," Ron said, his eyes fixed on Theo. Where the fuck did that come from?

"He broke no rules," came Blaise's aloof voice, and they all looked to him.

"How can you even say that?" Daphne demanded, while Tracey looked ready to smack Blaise.

"I can say it quite easily because it's true," Blaise shrugged. "Guess we all underestimated his desire to win, huh?"

Ron's eyes fell on Malfoy for a moment, and he noticed that Malfoy had distanced himself from everyone. He hit her in the head with a stunner before, so he probably doesn't want that brought up right now.

"We'll be taking a short recess before the third year Finals!" came Professor Flitwick's voice, and Ron looked back to the arena.

Theo was currently walking back with Millie, her arm around his shoulders. Millie was rubbing the welt the side of her temple, a slight scowl marring her features. Knowing her, she probably didn't take Theo's assault to heart. Theo seemed to be whispering something to Millie, but no one could make out what he was saying. The moment they approached their seats, Pansy shoved Theo away from Millie.

"You're a proper prick, Theo," Pansy hissed, while Theo just raised his hands in surrender.

"It's fine…" Millie sighed out, her fingers still rubbing her welt.

"Let me heal that," Daphne took out her wand, and Ron wondered why Pomfrey hadn't done that yet.

"No, I asked Madam Pomfrey to leave it…" Millie slowly sat down. "It'll serve as a reminder to never underestimate weedy psychopaths."

"Sorry, again, Millie," Theo apologized, but she just waved a dismissive hand.

The other girls were far less forgiving, and even Tracey was glaring murder at Theo.

"How could you do that your own friend?" Tracey hissed.

"Up there, she's not my friend," Theo replied calmly, which only pissed off the girls even more. He's right… But still… "Look, I wanted to win, and so did she. Millie, would you have smacked me if you got the chance?"

"Yeah," Millie relaxed in her seat. "It's alright, Theo… I lost fair and square, and I can live with that."

Theo shot her a weak smile, and then he looked to Tracey.

"I don't care if she's fine with it," Tracey scowled. "You can't kick girls."

"Daphne defeated Granger because she did the unexpected," Theo stated, and Ron shot a look towards Daphne, who was still frowning at Theo. "Granger was the better Duelist, but Daphne still won because she was willing to do whatever it took to win. You can be angry at me all you like, but I want to win. Millie understands that, and so does Ron." Oi, don't throw me under the bus.

The angry girls looked towards Ron, and he just shrugged. I do understand, and if Millie does as well, then I see nothing wrong here.

"Ron!" Pansy looked aghast.

"Millie, are you alright?" Ron looked to her.

"I'm fine," Millie rolled her eyes. "Seriously, I see this as a lesson learned." That's the witch that I love.

"Good," Ron said. Death-Eaters will do more than just kick you. They need to understand that people are capable of terrible things when something dear is on the line.

"I can't believe this," Tracey shook her head.

"Tracey, don't turn this into a fight when even I don't care," Millie said a little too firmly. "Theo's right… Up there, we were both competitors. Not friends. Had I gotten a chance to hit him, I would have done so without hesitation."

Theo gave Millie a nod, and then he took his seat by Blaise's side. The angered girls looked to Ron once again, and he simply sat down as well.

"Ron, you have to tell him off," Daphne sat down by his side. "He kicked her in the head."

"Just stop it," Millie frowned from her seat, and Daphne huffed angrily. "Ron, don't listen to them… I don't want you all fighting because I underestimated Theo." Millie then gave Ron a meaningful look. "Don't make the same mistake I did, yeah?"

"Trust me, the match won't last five seconds," Ron said, and all four girls raised their eyebrows. My left arm is starting to ache because of me abusing Cutis Terra… I'll finish the match immediately, and then use Baubillious to show the French their place. After that… I might leave in order to recover away from prying eyes.

"Ronald Weasley and Theodore Nott, please come up for the third year Finals!" Remus beckoned them to him, and both boys began making their way towards the arena.

"Are you angry with me?" Theo whispered to Ron on the way.

"I'm just surprised," Ron replied. "Was it necessary to kick her?"

"Maybe, maybe not… I did what felt right in the heat of the moment," Theo said, and Ron gave him a subtle nod.

"She's clearly fine with it, so I won't say anything," Ron said. "Just keep your distance from the other girls for now, Theo… They aren't very happy about this."

"I figured as much," Theo said. "Good luck, mate."

"You too," Ron said as they parted ways.

"No physical contact," Remus told both boys, and they both blinked at their Professor. "I've had a chat with the Headmaster, and we are putting an end to physical contact in these Tournaments." Nice going, Theo. "Now… Are you both ready?"

"Yes," they both said at the same time.

"Begin!" Remus announced, and Ron's first years began cheering at the top of their lungs.

"Stupefy!" Theo chanted, and Ron didn't even bother moving out of the way.

"Cutis Terra," Ron said under his breath, and just as his muscles tightened, Theo's stunner shattered against his right shoulder. Time to finally show Lumos Solem in action. C'mon, Ron! Get hyped!

Ron started with a couple of Non-Verbal stunners, which were much stronger than Millie's due to Ron's harsh training regime. Theo began dodging them just as Ron wanted, and while Theo was in the middle of a dodge, Ron decided to finish the Duel.

"Lumos Solem," Ron hissed, and he felt the heat of the Sun burn in his chest.

From there, the heat traveled up his neck, and into his face. For a moment, Ron feared that his own face was about to melt off, there was so much Magic coursing through him that it genuinely hurt. And then, with a deafening roar, Ron unleashed his fiery wrath in Theo's direction. Theo immediately panicked at seeing Ron's rage, but when golden light fired out of Ron's eyes and open mouth, Theo let out a panicked yell. The golden light was accompanied by an earsplitting hum, and as Ron shoved his face forward even more, everything was swept up by the fiery golden beam.

Loud yells of utter awe emanated from the spectators, and by the time Ron finished the Spell, Theo was already lying unconscious outside the arena bounds. Residual Magic coursed through Ron's veins, the heat of the Sun boiling his blood. No one will control Us! We'll burn them all to ash!

"Match…" Remus muttered, his eyes as wide as dinner plates. Baubillious!

"AGH!" Ron aimed his left hand into the air, and just as his roar silenced the crowd, hot white lightning split the sky apart.

People screamed in terror as the sound of thunder shook their very souls, most of them covering their ears and ducking for cover. Ron was certain that even Hogsmeade had seen, and heard, the forked lightning shoot up into the clouds. The temperature of the air around Ron had become boiling hot, but the cool air of winter quickly turned the hot air into thick fog which travelled upwards. Electricity cracked all over his left arm and chest before shooting itself into the ground, turning the sand around his feet into fulgurite.

The silence which followed Ron's display of power was haunting, and he savored every second of it. Right now, he felt more powerful than ever, and judging by the faces of the few people who dared to look at him, he knew that the French would never dream of going after him now. Where are the French? Ron looked towards Dumbledore's stand, and he found the Headmaster watching him with a calm smile on his face. He's proud, isn't he? Look at the scared people around him, he doesn't even seem bothered compared to them.

The French were definitely scared, Ron could see that. Most of them were slowly coming back out of cover in order to see if it was safe, and those who Ron could see were just staring at him with hanging mouths. It was all worth it… All the pain and stress that I've endured was worth it, because it brought me to this moment. I have earned these looks of shock, and awe. Ron drew in a deep breath before looking over to where Theo was, and he saw Madam Pomfrey just staring at him as she hid Theo behind her. Without a single word, Ron began to approach his friend's unconscious form. It was so quiet that Ron's footsteps seemed to echo throughout the Pitch.

"Is he alright?" Ron asked, and Madam Pomfrey just kept staring. "Is he alright, Madam Pomfrey?"

"Minor burns… And probably a concussion…" Madam Pomfrey muttered, and then she slowly turned her attention to Theo. He'll live, so it's fine.

Ron looked to Remus to announce his victory, but the Professor of Defense was just staring at the fulgurite which Ron's Spell had created. He looks genuinely dazed. Wait… The thunder probably rattled his brain. He was quite close to me when I set off the lightning. Oh, well, I'll just be on my way, then. Ron began making his way for the exit, and as he neared said exit, he realized that his left arm was just dangling at his side. I can't feel my arm… Oh, fuck. For a slight moment, Ron felt panic rush throughout him, but he quickly regained his composure. Think, Ron. You can't go back to Madam Pomfrey, it'll make you look weak if the French see you being healed after that display of power.

Just as Ron made his way out of the Quidditch Pitch, he realized that Marty could help him. I need to get back to Sanctuary. He felt his upper left chest begin to ache, and the pain began travelling down his body rather quickly. Oh, fuck. That is starting to hurt really badly. Ron pulled out his wand, and he aimed it at his left shoulder.

"Torpor," Ron chanted, and a cold feeling of numbness took over.

Ron quickly numbed his left arm just in case, and then the left side of his ribcage as well. Move, Ron. Move before you start falling apart. Just as he finished that thought, he heard loud footsteps chasing him down. Ron turned around, only to see his friends running over to him. Daphne was ahead of the pack, and everyone but Theo and Tracey had shown up. She's probably by his side right now, despite her anger with him.

"What the bloody fuck was that?!" Malfoy said rather loudly.

"You're yelling," Ron told the blonde wizard, who blinked at him.

"What?!" Did I blow their eardrums? No, there's no blood.

"You're yelling!" Ron repeated, and Malfoy nodded slowly.

"Ron! What was that?!" Daphne and Pansy asked together.

"That face beam!" Millie was actually smiling. "That was so amazing! I've never seen something like that, Ron! When did you learn it?!" At night, when I couldn't sleep because of night terrors.

Ron was about to reply, but unsurprisingly, he spotted his Family pop out of the exit. Good lord, the whole band is walking over to me. With his Family were Madam Roberts, and Dumbledore himself. Ron kept his eyes on Dumbledore, he needed the Headmaster to heal him far from French eyes. I'll ask him to follow me after a couple of questions. I'll also send my friends back to the Tournament, and they will keep supporting Slytherin in my absence.

"Bloody hell, Ronnie!" Charlie said with an awed smile on his face. "You're a damn monster!" Ronnie? Again?

"I know why they put you in Rank-A now, little brother," Bill said almost breathlessly. This is the first time that he has sounded like this when speaking of me. It feels… good.

"Thanks," Ron put on a smile, and then he immediately looked to Pandora. She looks more curious than awed. That's just like her. "Did you not enjoy the fireworks, Pandora?"

"I did," Pandora admitted, which mother wouldn't be proud after such a display? Yes! "Ron… You learnt this all by yourself?" I really did, Pandora.

"I assure you, Hogwarts does not teach Magic of that caliber to thirteen year olds," Dumbledore said, a calm smile on his face. "Quite a show, Ronald, it was most impressive. I was hoping to speak to you. Privately." Really? He just made my job so much easier.

It was surprising to see people trade quick looks of surprise, but what was surprising was the fact that Madam Roberts was just staring at Ron's left arm. She's noticed that it's not moving.

"Headmaster, we want to question him about what we just witnessed," Arthur started, but Ron had already turned to leave.

"Come, Headmaster," Ron said. "We'll talk in the castle." Please heal me, the pain is starting to spread to my legs. "Dad, I'll explain everything during the Holidays, I promise."

"Oh… Alright," Arthur looked towards his wife and three sons, all of whom were just staring at Ron's back. I can't even use Torpor!

Ron suddenly stopped, and then he looked back to his friends.

"Go support the House, please," Ron requested. "Tell them that they had better not fail me."

"We're on it," Blaise said, and then he quickly turned to leave.

If the adults were intrigued before, now they were utterly bewildered. They had, of course, noticed that people in Slytherin were very courteous to Ron, and his words just now had all but confirmed that Ron was indeed running things in Slytherin. How he had managed that, they had no clue, but they would definitely demand some answers when he was in a talkative mood.

Dumbledore walked side by side with Ron, neither of them saying a word. Slowly, the pain had set its roots in Ron's legs. He could even feel it traveling towards his right arm, and truth be told, he was beginning to come close to tears. The worst part about this was that he had to keep walking as if he was perfectly alright. And we're going uphill. Fuck me dead…

"Are they still there?" Ron broke his silence as they were climbing the hill. Please tell me that they've left… My eyes are starting to sting.

"They are," Dumbledore replied without looking back. "Just a little further, my boy."

"You know?" Ron rasped.

"The last time you brought lightning, you cooked half of your body," Dumbledore reminded him. "Just a bit further, Ronald, don't let them see."

"My legs are shaking…" Ron managed, his nose was starting to run.

Dumbledore put his arm around Ron's shoulders, and although it looked like paternal affection to the rest of the World, Dumbledore was actually using most of his strength to keep Ron steady.

"You did well with the French, Ronald," Dumbledore told him in a gentle voice. "Just a bit further, and then I'll call an Elf. You can rest in my Office for as long as you need."

---

Neville Longbottom's POV

Sunday 13th December, 1993 (Gryffindor Tower – Near Midday)

He wasn't too upset with his loss, but judging by his Gran's stern look, she definitely was.

Both Neville and Harry wanted to return to the Quidditch Pitch in order to show their support to their House-mates who were still competing, but neither of them dared leave the couches. Hermione and Ginny hadn't taken their losses well. Especially Hermione. To lose to Daphne Greengrass of all people… That's got to sting all over. Ginny had at least still managed to win a Duel, so the real reason for her foul mood was the fact that Ron had interfered. They all knew that it was Ron's strategy that had defeated Ginny, and although Ginny seemed to be handling it well at first, Hermione's defeat had heralded the end of Ginny's patience. Both girls had decided to leave together once they began whispering to each other. And we followed them here.

"If they don't come back in the next ten minutes, we'll go back to the Quidditch Pitch," Harry broke the silence, and Neville shot a look towards the stairway that led to the dorms. "Deal?"

"Deal," Neville agreed. "So… How do we deal with this?"

"I have no idea," Harry admitted. Figures. Harry's not exactly good at dealing with emotions. "I reckon we just show our support however we can. What do you think?" Should I say it?

"Um… I reckon we ask them to come back with us," Neville said, and Harry looked a little taken aback. "Look… It looks really bad that they just left after they lost. The others are still competing, and we need to be there for them."

"Hermione is not going back there," Harry sighed out, though he agreed with Neville. "Daphne Greengrass, of all people, managed to defeat her. This is not going to end well…"

"We were both there, and we both saw that Greengrass held her ground," Neville said, and Harry gave a reluctant nod.

"She did…" Harry said under his breath. Is he scared that Hermione will hear him? "Though that punch at the end… That was a little cheap."

"Yeah," Neville nodded to himself. "Still… She didn't break any rules…"

"No… No, she did not," Harry and Neville's eyes met. "We can't say this to Hermione, can we?"

"We can, but it won't end well for us," Neville replied, he knew that Hermione was too competitive for her own good. And confrontational. If we side with the 'enemy', she'll take her anger out on us. "Ugh… I don't want awkwardness to set in right before the Christmas Break."

"Me neither," Harry said. "Especially considering that all three of us will be staying at the Burrow." I still can't believe that Gran shipped me off like that. At least she'll be there for Christmas dinner.

Neville went to say something, but the sound of footsteps stopped him. Both Harry and Neville looked to see Ginny enter the common room, a tired look on her face. Yeesh, what happened to her? She was scowling when she left, and now she looks ready to sleep. Ginny sank into a chair unceremoniously, and then she closed her eyes. Harry and Neville exchanged looks, and Harry jerked his head towards Ginny.

"Ginny…" Neville started.

"Hmmm?" Ginny looked to him.

"Are you alright?" Neville asked. "Where is Hermione?"

"Crying in her room," Ginny sighed out, and both Harry and Neville tensed. "I tried calming her down, but she started rambling about falling behind in everything. Merlin help me, I did try my best. I even put my own anger aside… But she's gone off of the deep end."

"Should we…?" Harry gauged the waters.

"No," Ginny replied bluntly. "Plus, she's in the girls' dorms. You can't even go up there."

"Right," Harry gave a weak nod. "Ginny… Neville and I were thinking of going back to support the other Gryffindors. Do you want to come with us?"

"If I see my backstabbing brother, I'll scream," Ginny frowned deeply. "He made me look like a fool out there…"

"He was just supporting his team," Neville said before thinking, and Harry looked away towards the fire. I'm an idiot!

"What?" Ginny blinked at him.

"Well… Hermione was giving you tips… Right?" Neville pointed out. Stop digging your grave, Neville!

"Yeah, tips," Ginny huffed. "Not entire strategies!"

"It's not against the rules," Harry entered the conversation with a sigh.

"Still…" Ginny looked away from them. "My mum, dad, brothers, Luna… They were all there, and they watched me get stunned by Suzie Ninkovich of all people… Did you know that she was failing her classes? They all were… And now, they're handing in assignments well before the due date."

"Ron's doing?" Neville asked.

"Probably," Ginny replied. "Did you see the Slytherins out there? They moved out of his way, despite him being extremely late. They smiled, and patted his back like he was their damn messiah." Harry mentioned that Ron's been getting chummy with his House-mates. Which, again, isn't a crime. At least I don't see it as one anymore.

"So you're not coming?" Harry asked, and she shook her head.

"I'll wait down here for a bit, and then go speak to Hermione again," Ginny said tiredly. "I can't believe she lost to Greengrass…"

Harry and Neville exchanged looks, and they silently decided to keep their opinions to themselves.

"Right," Harry stood up. "Neville, do you want to go-?"

The entire common room was suddenly filled with a blinding flash of white light, followed by the sound of thunder. It sounded so close, and as a result, loud, it made Ginny shriek and the boys jump with freight. Without hesitation, Harry ran over to one of the windows to look outside, and Neville quickly followed after him.

"What was that?" Neville asked.

"I don't know," Harry peered over the grounds. "Did lightning strike Hogwarts?" Lightning?

"Um…" Neville remembered the last time Hogwarts was 'struck by lightning'.

"It sounded so close," came Ginny's voice from behind them, and they both turned to face her. "Wait… Lightning can't actually strike Hogwarts, can it? I mean, there are Protective Charms around the castle."

"It's happened before," Harry looked between them, his brow furrowed. I know that look. "You don't think Ron fired it, do you?"

"He's not allowed to use that Spell," Ginny stated. "Whatever it is…"

"Ron tends to follow his own rules," Harry looked to Neville, who just look back outside.

"Ginny… Go check on Hermione, please," Neville said. "And then, we'll go find out what happened."

---

Sunday 13th December, 1993 (The Great Hall – Dinner)

The atmosphere of the Great Hall was unlike anything Neville had seen before.

Slytherin had dominated the Year-based Dueling Tournaments, and so they could be heard celebrating their victory by every other House. They were talking loudly, banging cups on tables, and shooting mocking looks at anyone who was unfortunate enough to look in their direction. Mathias McCumbers, Bartholomew Greene, and Samantha Selwyn were at the center of this Slytherin boast fest because they had secured Slytherin three hundred House Points today. The only Slytherin victor who wasn't here was Ron, and yet, in a way, he was everywhere.

The entire school was discussing Ron's latest stunt, and both Harry and Neville were sorely disappointed to have missed 'the show'. They had, of course, been filled in on the details by the excited girls, and even some boys. Ron had dominated the third year Dueling Tournament, which in itself wasn't surprising, but his actions right after his victory had all but turned him into an object of reverence. First years from each House boasted about Ron's power, and even the older students couldn't deny that they were quite impressed. Even the Professors are discussing him, I think.

"And then, he shot lightning into the sky!" Lavender went on, and both Harry and Neville just listened to the excited third year girls. They just keep repeating themselves.

"I nearly went deaf, I think," Fay said, though there was a manic look on her face.

"The Earth shook, didn't you feel it?" Parvati asked Dean, who simply nodded along.

"You reckon he'd teach us that?" Seamus asked, and even Neville cocked an eyebrow at him. "What?"

"Why would he teach you? You're nothing but nasty to him," Lavender pointed out, and Seamus frowned a little. He still really likes her. "Plus, I don't think we could pull something like that off. Only Ron could achieve that kind of power."

"Why?" Seamus all but challenged, but he was swiftly ignored by the girls. "I could definitely-"

"You're wasting your breath, mate," Dean put his hand on Seamus' back, and then he looked to Harry. "What do you think about all of this, Harry?"

"I think…" Harry started, but then he stopped. "I just wish I was there to see it." Me too. I bet Gran thinks even more highly of Ron now.

"Too bad you were chasing after 'Miss. Sore Loser'," Seamus said coldly, and Harry immediately scowled at him.

"How about you shut-"

"Ahem, Harry," Neville stopped Harry, who just glared at Seamus. "It's not worth it."

"Hermione didn't do anything to him…" Harry glowered to himself. "He's always going after her…"

"Just ignore him," Neville said gently. Hermione didn't come down for dinner… She's taken this loss really badly. "I reckon we should take a couple of sandwiches up for her. If we ask Lavender nicely enough, she'll give them over to Hermione."

"Yeah…" Harry nodded. "Yeah, you're right. She likes the chicken sandwiches."

"Can I sit with you two?" came Ginny's voice from behind them.

"Ginny?" Neville looked back.

"I'm being bombarded by the first and second years…" Ginny sighed as she sat down to Harry's left. "Does Ron train at home? Is Ron your strongest sibling? Can you introduce me to him? Is Dumbledore teaching Ron Magic in secret? Ugh… I'm sick of it already. I asked them to let me eat, but they just ignored my request completely." Yeesh… Sounds like a nightmare.

"Dumbledore's teaching Ron Magic?" Harry's head perked up.

"Oh, you haven't heard?" Ginny blinked. "Apparently, after my brother pulled off his stunt, Dumbledore left for the castle with him."

"Mid-Tournaments?" Neville asked, even he was a little intrigued.

"Yeah, and he didn't come back for over an hour," Ginny began eating her food.

Harry and Neville exchanged looks, and Neville noticed that familiar spark behind Harry's emerald eyes. No… Neville subtly shook his head, but Harry immediately looked towards the Headmaster. Damn it! The Headmaster was currently having a chuckle with Professor Sprout, while the other Professors were in deep conversation.

"I don't think the Headmaster is teaching Ron Magic," Neville gave his opinion. "Ron seems like the sort to look for powerful Magic on his own."

"He does study a lot, even I can't deny that," Ginny shrugged.

"Where is he?" Harry asked her, his eyes landing on the Slytherins. "Is he skipping dinner again?"

Neville looked towards the Slytherin table, and he saw Ron's friends bantering with each other as they ate with smug smiles. They're probably the center of attention in Slytherin right now. I mean, the first and second years are sitting around them, despite Ron not being around.

"Ron does what Ron wants," Ginny said, her focus fixed on her food.

"Are you guys talking about Ron?" Lavender intruded, her friends were also staring at them now.

"No," Ginny said coldly. "And we don't want to discuss him, either."

"What's crawled up your arse?" Fay frowned at Ginny.

"Leave her alone," Harry said. "She just wants to eat her food."

"Do all the Weasleys eat a lot?" Parvati asked. "I saw your brother devour seven plates once."

"You watch him eat?" Ginny grimaced a little.

"A healthy appetite is very manly, and it's attractive," Lavender giggled, making Ginny shudder. Lavender needs to calm down… This is still a school.

"I might vomit," Ginny muttered under her breath.

"Where is Hermione?" Parvati asked Neville with a pretty smile. She's talking to me?

"Um… She's um… She's in your room. Her room. Both your rooms," Neville finished lamely. "The room that you all share, that is."

"Really? She wasn't there when we came down," Parvati told him, and both Harry and Neville looked taken aback. What?

"Really?" Harry asked the girls.

"Her bed was empty, and she wasn't in the bathroom," Fay said.

Harry and Neville exchanged looks, and then they both stood up.

"Excuse us," Neville said with a slightly grateful smile, while Harry was already on his way out.

"Bye, Neville," Parvati waved him off with another pretty smile, and he waved back shyly before chasing after Harry. I don't like rating the girls in our class, but the other boys are right. The Patil twins are definitely the prettiest girls in our year, especially Parvati.

"Harry, slow down," Neville said as he matched Harry's speed, and Ginny joined them right after.

"She's probably in the Library, so we'll go there first," Harry said with a determined look.

"If she is there, then she'll be studying," Ginny told them. "Should we really interrupt her? She's not in the mood to socialize."

"We'll just make sure that she's alright," Neville said. "After that, if she wants us to leave, we'll be on our way."

"Girls like Hermione don't need you checking up on them," Ginny told the boys. What's that supposed to mean? "She'll see it as you taking pity on her… Do you two really want to get told off?"

Harry looked to Neville at that, and Neville gave him a nod.

"We have to check," Neville said, and Harry looked back forward.

They made their way towards the Library with haste, Madam Pince tended to leave the Library open for the fifth and seventh years even during mealtimes. Plus, she has a soft spot for Hermione, I think. After all, Hermione basically lives in the Library these days. They made their way inside the Library together, and once inside, they went straight for the Records Section.

"She's not here," Harry said as they looked between the aisles. "Let's try the Herbology Section… We have that report on Vampiric Plants due soon, right?"

"We do," Neville said, he had already finished his, however.

Harry's instinct were proven right once again just as they entered the Herbology Section, Hermione was currently reaching for a book that was a little too high for her reach.

"Need some help?" Neville asked as they approached her, and Hermione looked to them with a slightly surprised look. Her eyes her puffy, and she looks a little too pale.

Ginny used her wand to bring the book out of the shelf, and Hermione quickly caught it.

"Forgot that you're a witch?" Ginny asked with a soft smile.

"No…" Hermione denied, but Neville knew that Hermione tended to forget about her Magic during trivial tasks. "What are you three doing here?"

"Just checking up on you," Harry replied, and Ginny shot Harry a deadpan look.

"Checking up on me?" Hermione blinked, and then a frown appeared on her face. "I don't need a babysitter, Harry James Potter!"

"Oh…" Harry looked to Neville, who stepped forward.

"You're skipping dinner, so we just-" Neville started.

"I'm not hungry," Hermione turned to leave. "I have to finish this report, and then get started on my Arithmancy homework."

Neville looked to Ginny, and she just shook her head at the boys' incompetence.

"Can we help in any way?" Ginny asked Hermione, who stopped walking away. "We can grab the books you need so you can focus on your work."

Hermione turned to face them, her eyes fixed on Ginny.

"That… would save me time," Hermione said to herself. "Do you really want to spend your time in here, though? I'll be here until curfew…" Again.

"We've got nothing else to do," Ginny shrugged. "Trust me, we'll be fine."

Neville stepped back to Harry's side, who seemed quite pleased with Ginny taking charge like this. Probably because it spares us the embarrassment of making fools of ourselves.

"Are you sure?" Hermione asked Ginny.

"What do you need, Hermione?" Ginny asked. We'll just follow Ginny's lead on this, and hopefully, Hermione can start looking past what happened today. I mean, it's just one loss. It doesn't even mean anything.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Sunday 13th December, 1993 (Headmaster's Office – After Dinner)

Ron eyes snapped open just as Pandora's final scream echoed in his mind, and Ron quickly shot out of his bed. Wait… My bed? Ron looked around the room with an alarmed look, where was he? Slowly, his mind began to catch up to him, and he remembered that he was in the Headmaster's lodgings. He brought me up here to heal me, and I passed out on his bed. Ron felt a little embarrassed by that, but he quickly moved past it. What's the time? I'm really hungry.

Ron looked around the room once more, and then he made his way out. As soon as he stepped out into the actual Office, he heard the sound of a quill scratching against parchment. Headmaster? Ron made his way out of the back of the Office and into the front, and Dumbledore smiled at seeing him up and about.

"Headmaster," Ron rubbed his eyes clear before yawning.

"How are you, my boy?" Dumbledore stopped his work in order to look Ron over.

"Hungry, and oddly enough, tired," Ron replied truthfully, while Fawkes flapped his little wings at seeing Ron. "What's the time?"

"Just after dinner," Dumbledore replied. "Take a seat."

Ron gave a nod, and then he took his usual seat. Still no Snape…

"Ugh… I could sleep for a decade," Ron remarked.

"You didn't sleep well, I'm afraid," Dumbledore told him. "I could hear you."

"And what did you hear?" Ron asked.

"You were having a nightmare," Dumbledore replied. "Do you not remember?"

"No," Ron lied, he did remember. Fire, and Pandora's charred corpse. There's no point in thinking about her death, but I can't control my damn dreams. Stupid brain. "How did the Tournaments go? Did the Slytherins dominate?"

"They did," Dumbledore replied, deciding to not prod Ron. Good news! "The Slytherins won the second, third, fourth, and seventh year Tournaments. Many people left impressed, while others not so much."

"Who won the fifth and sixth year Tournaments?" Ron asked.

"Cedric Diggory won the fifth, and Jack Diggele won the sixth," Dumbledore replied.

"A Hufflepuff, and a Ravenclaw…" Ron clicked his tongue.

"Not pleased with four hundred House Points?" Dumbledore couldn't help but chuckle. No, I wanted it all. "Ambition like that will get you into trouble, Ronald."

"Trouble is my middle name," Ron smirked.

"Really? I thought it was Bilius," Dumbledore quipped.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Ron rolled his eyes. "I forget that you were born in a century in which jokes weren't invented yet."

"How old do you think I am, Ronald?" Dumbledore's eyes twinkled.

"Old enough that your farts probably just flow out," Ron sniggered, earning an amused laugh from Dumbledore. "My comments don't bother you?"

"Quite the opposite," Dumbledore admitted. "It is good to banter with a fellow wizard again, even if my new partner is a little slow." Slow? What's he on about? I'm hilarious. "Severus, sadly, isn't one for banter."

"He's too damn grim," Ron nodded his agreement. "Anyway… I think I'll head off for the common room. I just want to sleep some more."

"If you are up to it," Dumbledore picked up his quill again. "Just don't fall down the stairs, Ronald."

"Thank you for taking care of me, Headmaster," Ron stood up. "I really appreciate the rescue."

"Think nothing of it," Dumbledore smiled as he went back to his work, and Ron left the Office.

He was so sleepy that he didn't even bother with the Disillusionment Charm. If I do run into any Gryffindors, I'll ask them to let me sleep on their couches. Hehe. That'd be funny. Ron once again cleared his eyes before turning the corner which would lead towards the Moving Staircase, and lo and behold, he spotted three Lions loitering in the Hallways. Act casual, Ron. It's just Bell, Spinnet, and McLaggen. Without breaking his stride, Ron made his way towards the stairs.

"Is that…? It is," Bell pointed to him, and Ron gave them all a wave.

"Weasley, what are you doing up here?" Alicia Spinnet asked, and surprisingly, there was no aggression in her voice. Could it be that my stunt worked on more people than just the French?

"Coming back from Diagon Alley," Ron lied. "Had some business to attend to."

"That Quibbler nonsense?" McLaggen asked in an arrogant manner, which earned him bored looks from his House-mates. Some people just can't hide their jealousy, can they?

"Not all of us can rely on daddy's bank accounts, bitch," Ron sniggered as he moved past them.

McLaggen clenched his jaw, while the girls he was clearly trying to chat up lost all interest in him. Let's add insult to injury.

"Bell, is that a new haircut?" Ron asked, noticing that her brown hair was shorter now. It's probably for Quidditch.

"Oh… Yeah, for Quidditch," she said slowly.

"It suits you," Ron smiled genuinely, and then he left without another word.

"Arrogant tosser…" he heard McLaggen mutter, which only made Ron smile to himself. Indeed, bitch boy.

"That's rich coming from you," Spinnet snorted. "Let's go, Katie… Angelina's probably looking around for us." Haha! Ruined his plans!

Ron made his way down the stairs with a casual pace, his head bobbing up and down. Dumbledore fixed me up proper. I don't feel any pain whatsoever. Ron did remember that his body was badly bruised, and that some of his muscles were still too tight for their own good. As it turned out, using Cutis Terra for too long resulted in muscle atrophy. In other words, the Magic from the Spell began to eat away at the muscles. When Dumbledore had first told him this, Ron had been jarred into silence. I'll have to be careful with this Spell from now on. I clearly don't understand it fully, so abusing it is just plain idiotic. I need to work harder on turning my body into a conduit, otherwise my own Magic will do me in.

"Open," Ron said to the entrance, and it slid aside for him.

Ron made his way into the common room, and he quickly spotted his friends sitting around in their favorite spot. Should I socialize? Or should I sleep?

"Weasley! He's back!" came a girl's voice, and the room went dead silent.

Every eye shot to him, and Ron stared back at his House-mates with a calm smile. I should congratulate the winners.

"I heard we secured four hundred House Points today!" Ron smiled more widely, and a bunch of easily excitable people let out cheers. "The other Houses are completely fucked this year! Let's start another win-streak, eh?!"

With that said, Ron began making his way to his friends. Along the way, he shook hands and smiled at the congratulators. He made sure to compliment any second, fourth, or seventh years for their contribution, and he even gave Flint's gang a polite nod. They seem content enough, though I'm sure they're not pleased to see me back.

"Hello," Ron greeted his friends as he sat down between Tracey and Pansy. Daphne's sitting in a single seater. I shouldn't push it with her, I think. Sure, we held hands for a bit, and even spoke normally, but I can tell she's still thinking about what I said.

"Where have you been, Ron?" Daphne asked him. "You just disappeared for the whole day…"

"I needed to see my Logistics Officer," Ron lied far too easily. "Theo… How are you feeling?"

"A little droopy," Theo smiled like an idiot, and Ron cocked his eyebrow. What the…?

"Madam Pomfrey dosed him with something to help with the concussion," Tracey told Ron. "Did you really have to go that far, Ron?"

"I did," Ron replied. "Theo, are you upset?"

"Nope," Theo shrugged. "It was scary, but the lights went out rather abruptly. Didn't even feel a thing."

"Stop leaning on me," Blaise repositioned Theo, who had swayed onto Blaise.

"But you smell nice," Theo snorted.

"Millie?" Ron looked to the girl with the welt on her head. "Still not planning to heal that?"

"No," Millie smirked. "Lesson learned, Ron." Good girl.

"You look really terrible," Pansy pointed out.

"Just tired," Ron dropped his weight on her side.

"No! You're heavy!" Pansy shrieked, ending with a grunt. "Ugh…" She complains, but her face is splitting open with a smile.

"What was that Spell you used, Weasley?" Malfoy asked, his face expressionless as usual.

"I used plenty of Spell," Ron smirked.

"I think he's referring to the 'face laser'," Tracey clarified.

"Face laser?" a bunch of them repeated.

"That's what I'm calling it," Tracey shrugged. "It sounded like a really loud lightsaber when it went off."

"Lightsaber?" Ron asked. "Is that a Muggle weapon?"

"I wish," Tracey said dreamily, and they all just exchanged looks. I'm glad that she's more open about her Muggle interests, which is probably thanks to Theo, but I have no clue what she's on about.

"The Spell you're referring to is called Lumos Solem," Ron told Malfoy, he saw no need to keep his Spells a secret. If they can learn from me, I won't complain. It'll definitely help them.

"Lumos Solem?" Daphne blinked, and then she looked to Theo. "Isn't that the Spell used to give plants sunlight?"

"It is," Theo nodded.

"Wandless Magic is 'raw Magic'," Ron reminded them. I swear that they zone out when I give my lectures. "Since your wand doesn't act as a conduit, the Magic released-"

"Snore," Pansy cut him off. "Want to play Wizard's Poker."

"I… Sure," Ron pouted a little. Let me teach you!

"Ron, a word?" came Clara's voice from behind him, and Ron looked to see her smiling at him. Sneaky witch.

"What if I said no?" Ron smirked.

"Then I'd force your friends to leave for bed," Clara said sweetly.

"You can't do that," Pansy challenged with a teasing voice.

"Can't I?" Clara leaned forward, her eyes fixed on Pansy's.

Ron, Pansy, Millie, and the other three boys, quickly snuck a look at Clara's cleavage. Fucking nice!

"Let's go," Ron stood up, his eyes darting towards Daphne. I can't wait for Future Daphne! I mean, she's already well on her way, but Future Daphne was something else! Her arse looked fantastic-

"Stop staring at the poor girl," Clara giggled, and Ron realized that he was making Daphne shrink into her seat with his eyes.

"Zoned out, sorry," Ron quickly recovered, while Daphne cleared her throat. Nice going, pervert. "Let's go, Clara."

Ron followed after the seventh year, who was smiling more widely than usual.

"Did you enjoy the view?" Clara hummed, her smile turning wicked.

"The view?" Ron asked.

"Don't think that I didn't notice you, and your mates, looking down my top," Clara teased. "This low cut shirt is already paying itself off."

"You want people to look?" Ron asked, his inexperience coming through.

"Remember what I told you about looking?" Clara took his arm as they entered the girls' dorms.

"There's nothing wrong with it," Ron replied.

"Exactly," Clara tightened her hold on his arm. She's pressing my arm on her tits again! "Some girls enjoy said looking."

"Well… You're welcome…" Ron looked dead ahead. Why is it that I can deal with death and carnage, but girls make me start fidgeting? I need to grow up. "So… Who won the seventh year Tournament?"

"Don't change the subject," Clara giggled. "I want to ask about your relationship first. After all, I am your teacher, am I not?"

"Oh… My relationship…" Ron swallowed thickly. "Things are going well…"

"Then why was she sitting alone?" Clara asked him. "Furthermore, I've noticed that she's been alone a lot over the last couple of days."

"Look… We got into a fight," Ron all but whispered, and Clara lost her teasing smile.

"I see," she said seriously as she let go of his arm. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Not really," Ron replied. "It's personal… Like, really personal…" She knows that I'm sick, I think everyone in Slytherin does at this point.

"I won't prod, but if you want to discuss it, then you know where to find me," Clara said, and they made the rest of the journey in silence.

As soon as Ron entered the Triumvirate's room, he spotted Samantha and Carey speaking in hushed whispers. What's going on here?

"Hello," Ron greeted, while Clara shut the door.

"Welcome back, Ron," Carey greeted smoothly, a soft smile on her face. "We were worried that you planned to disappear on us once again."

"I do enjoy my solitude," Ron admitted. "But there's nothing to worry about. You're stuck with me for now."

"Lucky us," Samantha smirked. "Well?"

"Well, what?" Ron asked with a smile.

"Aren't you going to congratulate me?" Samantha asked.

"You won the seventh year Tournament?" Ron asked.

"Who else?" Samantha's smirk widened.

"Ease up there," Clara laughed. "If your head gets any bigger, you'll float away."

"Congratulations, Samantha," Ron said. "Did you beat Percy?"

"Carey did," Samantha replied.

"You're good at strategies, I'll give you that," Carey smiled more fully. "Your brother did just as you predicted. He started off with showy Spells, but I kept cutting him off with simple stunners. He then started trying to dodge, which tuckered him out quite quickly. And then, I simply disarmed him. The look on his face… Hmmm… Very appealing." Appealing?

"Right…" Ron said slowly, and Carey seemed to enjoy Ron's awkwardness. Change the subject. "We secured four hundred House Points, just as we hoped. Shame that we couldn't secure more… But it is what it is."

"Knowing one's limits is important, Ron," Clara said.

"Trust me, my limits are quite high," Ron said. "Are we throwing the party, then?"

"That's what we were discussing," Carey told Ron. "You owe us a barrel, don't you?"

"Ah… You just want my money," Ron chuckled.

"You did promise us, remember?" Clara smiled widely.

"I'll get Pansy to order it, she knows which one it was," Ron said. "I'll give her the money, of course, but you'll have to smuggle it in." Do they have Elves in their employ?

"Done," they agreed.

"Anything else?" Ron asked.

"Just one more thing," Carey said. "Then you can go get your sleep." Do I look that tired?

"What is it?" Ron asked.

"Some of the Pure-Blood adults approached us, the Triumvirate, after the Duels today," Samantha told him, and Ron looked a bit taken aback. What's this about? "They wanted to know why you're so 'respected' in Slytherin. Many of them were not pleased, my father included." Uh-oh. "We just figured that we'd give you the heads up."

"These are dangerous people, Ron," Carey walked up to him, a very serious look on her face. "You really need to keep your eyes open from now on."

"Did they not see my display?" Ron asked. "I mean, maybe that's why I'm so 'respected'." Not respected, just a person they want to leech off.

"Unsurprisingly, your display only served to make them jealous," Clara sounded a little annoyed. "Honestly, Ron's only thirteen… How small does your cock need to be that you start going after a student out of jealousy?"

"Quite small, I imagine," Carey too sounded annoyed now.

"I'll be fine," Ron said. "Thanks for the heads up."

"Then we'll see you tomorrow," Samantha said, while Carey regained her composure.

"Get some sleep, please," Carey kissed his cheek, making Ron tense a bit. "You look very tired, and it's not a sexy look."

"I like it," Clara shrugged casually. "The 'working man' look, I call it." The 'dying patient' look, I call it.

"Goodnight, you three," Ron gave a parting nod, and then he left the room without another word. I'm coming, my bed. We'll be together soon enough.

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: And here it is! 99 to go before we hit 200!

Since I've raised my word limit per chapter by quite a lot, I reckon the story might end by chapter 200. (Maybe)! And if so, we are actually past the halfway chapter mark! Crazy, right?

Anyway, enough about that. I reckon next update will be around the fifteenth, or sixteenth.

See you then!