Fate Chapter 118 - Guardian, a harry potter fanfic

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 118 is finished!

Yeah, I took ages on this one... I'm sorry, but real life is getting really hectic for me. I'm looking for work, for further study, for some time to myself, and a million other things. I'm swamped as hell, and the story ended up taking a back seat as a result.

I'm still busy as hell, but I made this chapter super long as an apology for the long delay. I think it's the largest chapter so far!

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.

There's also another Ron story out that's really good so far! It's called 'There and Back Again', and it's written by Chuchi Otaku. Please, go check it out! I've certainly enjoyed reading it!

'Death waits, for the slightest lapse in concentration' - The Ancestor from Darkest Dungeon

Fate

Chapter 118 - Guardian

Hermione Granger's POV

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (The Quidditch Pitch– Nearly Midday)

"I don't think he's coming," Fay whispered in their direction. "We're totally going to win if he doesn't show up."

Hermione and Harry exchanged quick looks, was Ron sick again? Why else wouldn't he be here? It's not like he'd miss the chance to make one hundred House Points. Hermione slowly looked towards Ron's friends, and they looked just as perplexed. Wait… Where's Greengrass? She was there just a few minutes ago.

"He's probably slept in," Seamus said. "What bloody luck, eh?"

"I think Greengrass just left to go find him," Hermione said. "Let's not count our chickens before they hatch, all right?"

Dean and Harry nodded their agreement, while Seamus and Fay gave her quizzical looks.

"Chickens?" Fay asked slowly.

"It's a Muggle saying," Dean told them. "It means that you shouldn't be boastful until you win."

"Even if Ron doesn't show up, don't underestimate his friends," Harry said. "They all got far in the Tournaments, and he's probably taught them some of his tricks."

Hermione looked back to the second years' match, an uneasy feeling settling in her stomach. Something was definitely off here. Ron would never miss this, not unless he was feeling sick again. Maybe Professor Snape knows something? Hermione looked towards the Potions Master, who was sitting at the edge of the makeshift arena, and she couldn't help but stare at him. I can't believe that he lost an eye in that accident. He must have been working with Boomslang Skin. It must have become unstable, and then-

The sound of loud cheering broke Hermione out of her thoughts, the Gryffindor second years had just won their match against the Hufflepuffs. Yes! Now they only need to defeat the Slytherin second years, and Gryffindor will have a hundred Points secured! Her eyes found Ginny, who was dusting off her clothes by herself while her teammates cheered and congratulated each other. She's still keeping her distance from everyone.

"She did most of the work," Harry whispered to Hermione. "And not even one of them has congratulated her yet."

"We really need to do something about her," Hermione whispered back. "Why don't we ask her to eat with us tonight?"

"I don't know about that," Harry whispered. "She only talks to Neville out of us three, and she doesn't exactly look comfortable being near you and me."

"Which is exactly why we need to try harder," Hermione urged, she missed having a female friend. "If we can show her that we're still willing to be friends with her, she might change her mind about us."

"I think she knows that we're sorry," Harry sighed out. "She just doesn't want to forgive us yet, Hermione, so pushing her is the last thing that we should be doing. I'm with Neville on this, we just need to give her some time." We've given her over two weeks already! At this point, things aren't getting better because of us!

Harry suddenly nudged her, and she looked to see him giving her a very serious look.

"Hermione, don't push her," Harry warned.

"I wasn't going to," Hermione lied.

"Yeah, you were," Harry said. "I know that look of yours, Hermione, and so far, it's only made things worse for you. Let's just leave it for once, yeah?" No. Doing nothing is worse than making a mess of things. I don't want to regret not reaching out later on.

"Fine, I'll leave it," Hermione lied again. I won't approach her until our lesson with Professor Lupin. He's teaching us a really hard Spell, and Ginny might need help with it. She's not exactly studious, so this is bound to work out.

With her mind made up, Hermione focused on the Slytherin vs. Gryffindor match. Professors McGonagall and Sprout had turned the Quidditch Pitch into a gladiator arena of sorts, one that was filled with large boulders and sand. It was obvious to everyone that the boulders would provide decent cover, and with the Explosive Curses banned, no one had to worry about these boulders being blown up. Harry and I just need to pull Ron away from his team, and because of these boulders, he won't be able to help them. Let's just hope that Dean, Fay, and Seamus can last long enough for us to join them.

"She's doing really well down there," Harry whispered, and Hermione looked towards Ginny.

The red-haired witch was currently keeping Suzie Ninkovich and Boris Grimm occupied, and Hermione couldn't help but be impressed by Ginny's athleticism. Ginny was incredibly fast, and she had no qualms about risking her own safety if it got her the win. Sadly, however, Ginny's team didn't share her ferocity. Even though they had the advantage of numbers on the Slytherins, the Gryffindors were still struggling.

The Slytherin second years imitated Ron's tricks rather blatantly, and it was obvious to everyone that he had trained them. They used cheap tricks like sending gusts of sand at the Gryffindors in order to blind them, while Lilliana Flowers hid in the background, only revealing herself whenever she got the chance to get in a cheap shot. The Gryffindors fought back with honor, trying their best to help each other as the Slytherins used every dirty trick in the book to find an advantage.

Colin was the first Gryffindor to go down, he was stunned from the side by Flowers. Matilda quickly found herself cornered and disarmed, which wasn't surprising because the girl barely ever left the cover of her boulder. This left Ginny, Pious, and Samuel horribly disadvantaged, and Hermione couldn't help but feel sorry for her Housemates as they were taken down one by one. Pious was hit with two separate stunners, while Samuel was left hogtied by Mathias.

Ginny was the last Gryffindor left standing, and Hermione could barely watch as five eager Slytherins overpowered her friend. Some of the Gryffindors tried to cheer Ginny on, but the Slytherins drowned their voices out with their howls and whistles. Of all the people who could have disarmed Ginny, it was Suzie Ninkovich who had to be the one to take Ginny out of the fight. The smug looking Slytherin girl had disarmed Ginny from the side, while Ginny was trying to defend herself against Mathias and Boris. Although Hermione was glad that Ginny hadn't gotten hurt during her disarming, she couldn't help but feel terrible for the redhead. The look on her face just then… She's lost to Ninkovich twice now.

"Like they need more Points," Dean whispered crossly, while the Slytherins cheered and yelled at the top of their lungs.

Even from the Gryffindor stands, Hermione could hear their taunts and arrogant remarks. Most of them were cheering for the second years, but a fair few of them were insulting Ginny and her team. Hermione eyed Flint's gang, all of whom were laughing and pointing fingers at the Gryffindors. Crabbe and Goyle look especially happy… Oafs.

The Gryffindor second years slowly made their way towards Madam Pomfrey in order to have their injuries tended, while the Slytherin second years waited for Professor Lupin to announce their win. We should be up next, and Ron still isn't here.

"Well done to the Slytherin second years!" Professor Lupin announced, his voice amplified by the Amplifying Charm. "A truly remarkable use of terrain! Well done!"

The Slytherins cheered loudly, while most of the Gryffindors rolled their eyes. They did use the terrain really well, even if it was a bit cheap to blow sand into people's eyes. Hermione clapped for the sake of clapping, but even that was enough to earn her some annoyed looks from her Housemates. What? I can't even clap for them? They clearly worked harder than our second years.

"We should start making our way down," Fay suggested. "The third years are up next."

Hermione quietly followed her team down the stands, though her mind was somewhere else. Deep in the back of her mind, she was hoping that Ron didn't show up. Slytherin had already made another one hundred Points, and if he showed up, then they'd probably make another one hundred. The Headmaster might as well hand Slytherin the House Cup. No House has a chance of catching up anymore.

Hermione shook her head clear, what was she thinking? Of course we still stand a chance. If we win the Quidditch Cup and the Ranked Tournaments, we could level the playing field. I can't just give up yet.

"You okay?" Dean asked Hermione.

"Oh, yes," she replied quickly. "I was just thinking about Slytherin's lead, and how we can try to overcome it."

"We break their Hourglass," Dean chuckled. What? No.

"The Professors would fix it within seconds, and we'd lose Gryffindor what little Points it has left," Hermione said matter-of-factly.

"I was only joking," Dean said, he looked a bit put off.

"Oh…" Hermione looked ahead. Am I an alien? Is that why I'm so terrible with people? "I get it now. That was funny, Dean."

Dean gave a slow nod, and then he sped up his pace in order to catch up to Seamus. Way to go, Hermione. She noticed Harry giving her a knowing smile, which only further convinced Hermione that she didn't need any more friends. I have Harry and Neville, and soon, I'll have Ginny and Ron as well. Four friends are more than enough. Still, she figured that she needed to work on her social skills a bit more. I just need to find some spare time, which seems impossible these days.

As they exited the stands, Hermione quickly looked towards the Slytherin team. He's here. Damn. Ron stood with Bulstrode, Nott, Zabini, and Malfoy, but while they talked to each other as they sized up the competition, Ron stared blankly up at the sky. His skin was as pale as moonlight, and the dark bags under his eyes stood out from a mile away. He looked… bored.

"Bloody hell," Seamus shot a look at the others. "I guess we won't be getting lucky, then."

"We can still win," Harry spoke with conviction. "Just stick to the plan, all right? We've got this."

Hermione could tell that the others somewhat doubted Harry's words, but that was only because she too doubted them. Logically speaking, Ron's friends were going to overpower Seamus, Fay, and Dean well before Ron was taken down. The only way that we win this is if Harry and I take Ron out in less than a minute. Hermione let out a sigh; they didn't stand a chance. Even Harry knows this, but he's trying his best to keep everyone's morale up. It's the only reason why I haven't said anything. He's trying his best, and Harry rarely tries at anything that isn't Quidditch.

They all took their seats on the outskirts of the arena, and Hermione finally looked towards the other teams. Terry Boot, Padma Patil, Anthony Goldstein, Lisa Turpin, and Michael Corner. Other than Padma, the Ravenclaw team is rather… lackluster. Didn't Ron beat Michael Corner within a second? No one gave Michael a stupid nickname…

"Hufflepuff really brought out their best, didn't they?" Seamus sniggered, and Hermione followed his gaze. Hannah Abbot, Susan Bones, Justin Finch-Fletchly, Wayne Hopkins, and Ernest Macmillan. They all did rather poorly in the last tournament. "I don't even know why Hufflepuff is even competing. Pretty much all of them were dreadful during the last tournament."

"Don't be a prat, Seamus," Fay said. "I happen to be friends with Hannah and Susan."

"Oh… Sorry," Seamus said sheepishly, and Fay narrowed her eyes on him.

"They might have practiced this time around," Harry said. "Let's still take them seriously, yeah?"

"Could the Slytherin and Ravenclaw teams please enter the arena?!" Remus' voice soared.

"All right, remember to watch your designated opponent," Harry whispered, but Hermione was already watching Ron.

He dragged himself out of his chair, and he was the last person to enter the arena. Ravenclaws and Slytherins cheered from above, but Ron didn't seem to register their voices. He was just staring off into space, completely ignoring everyone around him.

"Is Weasley sick? He looks like shit," Seamus whispered.

"You're supposed to be watching Zabini," Harry sighed out. "Leave Ron to Hermione, Seamus. Just watch your own opponent. We need to figure out their weakest link."

"Bulstrode is obviously their weakest link," Seamus muttered under his breath.

"Why would you say that?" Fay asked haughtily. "She lasted longer than Malfoy and Zabini in the last tournament."

"Yeah, but she's…" Seamus trailed off. She's what? A little overweight? A girl? Go on.

"Go on," Hermione looked towards Seamus, both Fay and Hermione's eyes digging into Seamus' soul.

"Dug your own grave there, mate," Dean smirked. Seamus is really rude, and vulgar. And clearly, he's also a sexist. I hope he gets Hexed right in the face-

"Hermione, focus," Harry nudged her side. "Just leave it for now, please."

"Fine," Hermione looked back to Ron, who was yawning while his teammates prepared to Duel. "Harry, I think Ron might be off his game today. He looks exhausted."

"Or maybe, he's putting on an act," Harry suggested.

"An act?" Hermione looked to Harry with a quizzical look. "Harry, he looks like he just came here from his death-bed."

"Hermione, he beat an Auror Trainer," Harry said. "Don't let his appearance fool you. I'm getting a really bad feeling about this." Harry does have really good instincts. I mean, he's rarely wrong when it comes down to it.

"Let's go over the rules in case any of you missed them," Remus said, his eyes darting towards Ron. "No Explosive Curses, no physical contact, and no life-threatening Spells. Let's make sure to think of each other's safety first-"

"Just start the match, Lupin," Snape hissed from his chair. "You're wasting everyone's time."

"Git," Harry muttered sourly. "He's the waste of time-"

"Ignore him," Hermione said, but the irritated look on Harry's face told her that he wasn't going to ignore anything. I'm surprised that Harry isn't investigating Professor Snape's injuries. Usually, he just needs a reason to look into anything suspicious. Is it because of what happened with Ron?

"Are both teams ready?" Remus asked, and Hermione focused on the match.

The Slytherins were sticking to a loose formation, while the Ravenclaws were practically hugging each other. It was obvious that the Slytherins planned to be on the offensive, which was probably the reason why the Ravenclaws looked ready to defend each other. If they're too busy defending, then who's going to keep Ron in check? Padma?

"Begin!" Remus announced, and the crowds began cheering loudly once again.

The Ravenclaws immediately put up shields, while the Slytherins began running for cover as they launched their assault. Wait… Why isn't Ron moving from his spot? Her question was answered when Ron started throwing a barrage of Spells at the Ravenclaws, though the look on his face suggested that he was already bored with the Dueling Tournament. He's only using three basic Spells on a loop? Why? Hermione quickly eyed the other Slytherins, and she realized that they were trying to surround the Ravenclaws.

"Ron's a distraction," Hermione whispered to her teammates.

"Yeah, the others are only throwing Spells in order to cover themselves," Harry added. "Look at Nott for a second… He's trying his best to go unnoticed."

"Same with Zabini," Seamus said. "They're both veering off somewhere…"

Hermione refocused on Ron, who hadn't moved an inch from his spot. What are the Ravenclaws doing? They're just standing there! Ron's distracted, and they can take him out if they catch him mid-cast. As if she had divined the future, Terry Boot suddenly lowered his shield and fired a stunner at Ron. Hermione's breath hitched as Ron made no move to avoid it, but much to everyone's shock, Terry's stunner shattered into pieces with a swift backhand from Ron. How does he do that?! He should've gotten stunned right there! His skin can't be stronger than a Stunning Charm! He's not a Magical Creature!

The crowd suddenly roared, and Hermione realized that Bulstrode had stunned Terry the moment he had lowered his shield.

"Bloody hell, she was so quick on that," Seamus said.

"Guess she's not the weakest link," Fay said, a hint of superiority in her voice.

Hermione ignored her teammates, opting instead to keep her focus on the match. Ron still remained in his spot, firing the same three Spells over and over again. Malfoy and Bulstrode had settled behind a couple of large boulders, both of them syncing their Spells with Ron's in order to not give the Ravenclaws a chance to fight back. As for Nott and Zabini…

"Um… Where are Nott and Zabini?" Hermione asked, and the others quickly tried to search for the missing boys.

"I lost him…" Seamus said guiltily.

"And I lost Nott," Harry clicked his tongue. "He was right there a few seconds ago. Where did he go?"

"They both went invisible," Hermione realized. Oh, this is not good. No one saw them vanish, which means that the Ravenclaws haven't even realized that they're only fighting three opponents.

"Invisible?" Fay asked. "Oh, right… We've seen them do that."

"Ron taught them that trick," Harry said. "He showed it to Hermione and me back in first year."

"So you can do it too?" Dean asked.

"No… We didn't learn that one," Harry replied, while Hermione scolded herself for not asking Ron to teach her.

Just as Hermione looked back towards the match, she saw two bright red sparks smash into the Ravenclaws' shields. Where did those come from?

"Nott and Zabini are behind them!" Fay gasped.

"They should've moved," Harry said, a slightly worried look on his face.

The whole school watched in silence as Nott and Zabini started throwing stunners at the Ravenclaws' backs, and in the pandemonium, Malfoy and Bulstrode jumped out of their covers in order to start picking people off. Surprisingly enough, Padma was the first one to go down. Malfoy disarmed her mid-cast, and just as Michael Corner tried to retaliate; Bulstrode hit him with a Hex that encased his head inside a pumpkin. The Slytherins within the stands burst into laughter, all of them cheering wildly as the Ravenclaw team was decimated.

During all of this, Hermione noticed that Ron had stopped fighting the moment Nott and Zabini had flanked the Ravenclaws. He had just stood there with a tired look on his face, and if Hermione was being honest, she felt like Ron didn't really care enough to be here. He barely put in any effort… His teammates did everything while he pretended to be a threat. Slowly, Hermione realized that her own team had a very similar strategy to the Ravenclaws. We're planning to focus on Ron ourselves… Oh, no. What if…? What if that's his plan? He's using his reputation to his advantage, while his friends go unnoticed.

"We shouldn't focus on Ron," Hermione told the others, which earned her mixed reactions.

Seamus and Dean were looking at her like she was an idiot, Fay was giving her a dull look, and Harry looked a little annoyed.

"Not this again," Harry said. "Hermione, he's too-"

"He didn't even do anything during that Duel," Hermione said as she looked back to Ron. "Look at him, you guys. He doesn't even want to be here. The Ravenclaws kept defending themselves against him, but his teammates did all the work. Ron is relying on us to make the same mistake-"

"If we ignore him, he'll start picking us off one by one," Harry countered. "Hermione, we can't ignore their best Duelist just because he looks tired."

"I'm not saying that we ignore him," Hermione argued. "I'm saying that we have one person focus on him instead of two. He's clearly not in any shape to Duel, so I really think that one person could be enough."

"And let me guess," Fay started. "That person should be you?"

"Why not?" Hermione asked a little defensively. "I've proven myself to be the strongest Duelist in our team-"

"Here we go," Fay rolled her eyes, which annoyed Hermione to no end.

"At least I'm not stupid enough to put on make-up when I'm competing in a Dueling Tournament," Hermione said harshly.

"I'm not stupid, you cow," Fay shot back.

"Stop fighting each other," Harry intervened, while Seamus and Dean decided to ignore the girls. "Hermione, we already have a plan, and changing it now is only going to cause confusion. If Ron really is as out of it as you believe, then we can try and take him out sooner than planned."

Hermione felt the urge to argue some more, but Remus' voice cut through her thoughts.

"Will the Gryffindor and Hufflepuff teams please come down?" Remus asked, and they all stood up.

Hermione looked towards the Slytherin team as she made her way towards the arena entrance, her eyes finding Ron again. Much to her bewilderment, Ron was already taking a nap. He's not going to watch us? Is he that sure of himself? Or is he feeling too tired to focus? God, something is really off here.

Harry Potter's POV

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (The Quidditch Pitch – Midday)

Harry looked out of the arena, his eyes landing on the staff stands. He's here.

Albus Dumbledore leaned forward in his chair, his twinkling eyes fixed on Harry. Determined to show Dumbledore what he was made of, Harry focused back on the Hufflepuff team. I have to win this.

The plan against the Hufflepuff team was quite simple. According to Hermione, the Hufflepuff team wasn't exactly talented in Dueling, and so if they could be lured into single combat, they'd go down pretty easily. Harry's target was Justin, which is why Harry had made sure to position himself in front of the smiling Muggle-Born. None of them look nervous, but none of them look alert either. Are they not here to win?

"Are both teams ready?" Remus asked.

"Ready," the Hufflepuffs replied, while the Gryffindors nodded.

"Begin!" Remus said loudly.

"Expelliarmus!" Harry fired the first Spell.

Justin dodged it rather poorly, but he managed to recover his footing just in time to find some cover. Harry and his team quickly ran away from each other, all of them finding cover at various places within the arena. Harry was quite surprised that the Hufflepuffs hadn't attacked them during their flight, and when he looked back to where the Hufflepuffs were all holed up, his eyes nearly popped out of his head. What is that?!

Unlike the Ravenclaws, the Hufflepuffs had somehow combined their shields into one, domelike structure. It was unlike anything Harry had ever seen, and judging from the awed voices coming from the stands, a lot of other students were just as amazed as Harry. Wait… Is that Susan? What is she doing? Susan Bones was standing in the middle of her teammates, and she was holding her wand with both hands as she aimed it at the sky. From her wand, a bright blue light was pouring forth into the structure's ceiling. They're completely safe from all sides… Who taught them this Spell? Professor Sprout?

Harry looked up at the staff stands, and he saw that Professor Sprout was looking quite astonished by what she was seeing. She didn't teach them, did she? It must've been the older Hufflepuff students. Did they all practice together as a House? Harry was ripped from his thoughts when a stunner hit the boulder he was hiding behind. Shooting a quick glance back, Harry saw that the shield had opened a window for Wayne Hopkins. Harry aimed his wand at the exposed Hufflepuff, but the shield quickly closed up again. What the hell?!

The loud cheering and exalted comments made it hard for Harry to think, and he couldn't help but feel annoyed. We asked our older students to teach us, but they laughed us off. Is Hermione right about Gryffindor being too 'macho' for its own good? Why am I even thinking about this right now?! Deciding to come up with a solution with the help of his teammates, Harry quickly sprinted behind another boulder. No one shot any Spells at him, which was rather odd. I was out in the open for nearly five seconds.

"Oi, you lot!" came Dean's voice from ahead of him. "Let's meet up in the middle again!"

Harry peeked out of cover, and he saw that the Hufflepuffs were looking to wherever Dean's voice had come from. They're not watching me. Trusting his gut, Harry did a runner for the middle. When he was halfway there, he saw the Hufflepuff shield open up in front of Justin and Hannah. This is my chance! Stopping dead in his tracks, Harry aimed his wand at Justin. There was a lot of distance between him and the Hufflepuffs, and the boulders and shield were also in the way. This was going to be a difficult shot to make. I can do this. I just need to remember to breathe like Remus taught me.

"Stupefy," Harry chanted, and his stunner found its mark.

Justin had just finished firing his own stunner at someone when he got hit, and he was sent tumbling into Hannah. I got him! Not planning to stick around for the retaliation, Harry sprinted for the closest boulder. By the time he reached it, he saw Hermione's bushy hair duck beneath the boulder to his left.

"Hermione," Harry called. "Is that you?"

"The older Hufflepuffs must've taught them how to cast that variation of the Shield Charm," came Hermione's voice. "Even I don't know what that Spell is, Harry."

"They got Dean!" Seamus barked as he quickly joined Harry behind his boulder. "Where are the others?"

"Hermione's behind that boulder," Harry pointed out Hermione's hiding place. "I don't know where Fay is. I thought she was with you and Dean."

"Dean and I went a little further than her," Seamus said. "She should've gotten back here before me."

A stunner suddenly hit Harry and Seamus' boulder, and Seamus cussed loudly as he dug himself into Harry's side. Oi! Don't shove me! I'll fall into their line of sight!

"They nearly got me shoulder!" Seamus snapped. "Harry, move over!"

"They'll get my shoulder if I move," Harry said. "Just calm down, Seamus."

"Merlin… We're cornered by bloody Hufflepuffs," Seamus sounded rather jumpy and vexed. "They probably got Fay-"

"I see her!" Hermione cut in. "She's not far from me! Dunbar! Over here!"

"Don't yell," Harry said quickly. "They can still hear us. The reason why they got Dean was because he gave himself away."

"What do we do?" Seamus asked. "We can't even hit them."

"Yes, we can," Harry said. "I got Justin just before-"

"You took one of them down?" Hermione asked, while Seamus looked a little proud of Harry.

"Good on you, mate," Seamus said.

"Their shield opens up for them whenever they want to attack someone," Harry told his teammates. "It's how I got Justin."

"So basically, if they want to hit us with any Spells, they have to expose themselves?" Hermione asked. "Harry, I've never heard of Shield Charms being used like this-"

"Well, you can see it for yourself right now, can't you?" came Fay's voice. "Harry, what do we do?"

"I think we should use Finite to break their shield," Hermione answered before Harry could.

Harry didn't really mind that, but it seemed to annoy Seamus a little. Move past it, Harry. Don't let your team get distracted, that's what Oliver always does. We need to stay focused until the very end.

"Does anyone have a shot?" Harry asked. "Seamus and I can't move properly."

"I can see them pretty clearly from here," came Fay's voice. "Do you want me to take the shot?"

"Give Seamus and I ten seconds," Harry replied, and then he looked to Seamus. "Seamus, we'll move a little closer towards the Hufflepuffs when Fay gives us an opening. If you have a shot, take it."

"Got it," Seamus nodded.

"Fay, now!" Harry ordered, and then both boys bolted in different directions. I didn't specify which way we were going! I'm an idiot!

Harry saw Fay's Finite hit the shield, but instead of breaking the shield completely, the General Counter-Spell only managed to 'dissolve' a small portion of it. Wayne Hopkins used the small opening to try and Hex Harry, but Harry easily dodged the bright pink Spell as he found some cover. Susan was still standing in the same spot? Harry stuck his head out for a moment, but it was long enough for him to see the shield slowly become hole once again. She's clearly the one keeping this shield going. I know what we have to do.

"Can you lot hear me?!" Harry asked, and all three of his teammates responded at once. Good, none of us got hit with anything, and we all managed to move up a little.

"The shield healed itself, Harry," came Hermione's voice. "A head-on assault won't work."

"I know," Harry said. "Can you guys all use Finite this time? I know what we have to do." I have to get Susan this time. I'm certain that that will bring the shield down.

"What do you think we have to do?" Hermione asked. I don't want the Hufflepuffs to overhear me.

"Please, just do it," Harry replied.

"Seamus and I can see them from where we are," came Fay's voice. She met up with him?

"Just tell us when, mate," came Seamus' voice.

Harry drew in a sharp breath, and then he peeked over the corner again. She's still just standing there in the same pose… Yeah, she's definitely the person keeping this shield going, and by the look of it, she won't be able to hold on for much longer. I guess Shield Charms do take a lot of focus to keep up. Harry could now see the flaw in their strategy, which gave him insight into defeating them. We can just wait until she gets too tired to keep going, or we can catch her while she's focusing on her Spell.

"Do it now," Harry said as he jumped out of cover.

The Hufflepuffs aimed their wands at him, while his teammates fired their General Counter-Spells at the Hufflepuff shield.

"Stupefy!" Harry chanted, timing his own Spell perfectly.

The shield had opened up just enough for Harry's stunner to go through, and once again, Harry's Spell found its mark. Susan went reeling through the air, her wand flying out of her hands. Without the caster, the wand stopped emitting the bright blue light, and the shield simply vanished from sight. I was right!

The Gryffindors roared with excitement, but Harry zoned them out completely. Wayne and Ernest had retaliated before Harry could celebrate his victory, but through sheer luck, they both missed Harry. Not wanting to tempt fate, he dived behind cover again. I can't believe that they missed me! I was out in the open! Did they not work on their aims?

"The shield's down!" came Hermione's voice. "Attack!"

The sound of Spells going off forced Harry to sit up quickly, he didn't have any time to waste. With another sharp breath, Harry buried any fear of getting hurt. He charged out of his cover, his wand already aimed at the scrambling Hufflepuffs. Ernest, Hannah, and Wayne were clearly panicking as they each ran for new cover, which only made the cleanup easier for the Gryffindors. Harry stunned Ernest just in time to see Hermione use the Full Body-Bind Curse on Hannah. Wayne managed to at least get behind cover, but Fay disarmed him the moment he tried to attack Harry.

"Match!" came Remus' voice, and the Gryffindors exploded in cheer and applause.

Harry let out a long breath, the feeling of victory warming him to the core. He managed to look up at Dumbledore applauding Gryffindor's win, but before he could enjoy it, his teammates rushed him.

"That was a wicked shot, mate!" Seamus patted Harry's back, while Fay beamed at him as she nodded her agreement. "They never saw it coming!"

"How did you know that it was Susan?!" Fay asked.

"I just had a feeling in my gut," Harry admitted. "I mean, she was clearly playing an important role, right?"

"I wonder who taught her that Spell," Hermione said, she was watching Remus and Madam Pomfrey tend to the injured. "That was clearly a very advanced Spell, and I don't think that she was cut out for it."

"What are you on about?" Fay asked. "She held it for ages!" Uh-oh.

"She was getting tired," Harry said. "I saw it." We just won, and I don't want us to start arguing again. "Let's go get Dean, yeah? We need to stay focused until we defeat Slytherin."

"Speaking of which… He's awake," Seamus nudged Harry, and Harry looked towards the Slytherin team.

Ron was staring at the Hufflepuffs with a dull look on his face; he didn't seem too impressed by them. Knowing him, he probably knows how to cast that Spell as well. I should motivate the others before we face the Slytherins. I feel like we really came through, despite having a rough start.

"Should he really be competing?" Fay asked, a hint of genuine worry in her voice. "I can see sleep wrinkles on his face from here… He probably just woke up." Good, that'll make him slow.

"We'll be taking a small break before the next match!" Remus announced. "Third years, remember to stay hydrated!"

Five Minutes Later

"Harry, please listen to me this time," Hermione urged, and Harry pinched the bridge of his nose. "He's completely out of it, which means that I can hold him off on my own. You should help the others in order to even the odds. Fay, Seamus, and Dean don't stand a chance against Ron's friends."

Harry shot a quick look towards the others; they seemed too busy to overhear his conversation with Hermione. We should've moved even further.

"Hermione, don't say that so loudly," Harry scolded. "What if they had heard you?"

"I'm not trying to be mean," Hermione said defensively. "I'm just stating facts. You know that I'm right about Ron's friends, but you're ignoring me-"

"I'm ignoring you because I want to keep this team together," Harry cut in, enough was enough. "You keep discouraging them for no reason, Hermione."

"I'm not discouraging them," Hermione blinked, she looked genuinely baffled. "Am I?"

"You are," Harry replied. "You keep calling Fay stupid, you keep telling Seamus to focus so that his wand doesn't act up-"

"Seamus could hurt someone, though," Hermione said.

"He's insecure about his wand, and even I know that," Harry whispered crossly. "And you just keep bringing it up. It was funny at first, but now everyone cringes when you do it." Stop attacking people's self-esteems!

Hermione looked a little hurt because of his tone, and Harry immediately felt guilty. And now, I'm being a prat. Bloody hell, I should try and be gentler.

"Look, I know that you're trying to help," Harry started, his tone much softer. "But, Hermione… You've said some really harsh things to us over the last few days, and the others wanted to have a go at you-"

"Have a go at me?" Hermione asked slowly.

"You openly wondered if Fay could be replaced, and that set everyone off," Harry replied.

"I was joking about that," Hermione defended herself.

"Not even I could tell if you were joking or not," Harry told the truth. "I asked them to just bear with it, because I know that you want us to win. I want the same thing, but not at the cost of hurting other people."

"They'd rather lose than hear some facts?" Hermione asked, and Harry started feeling annoyed again. I'll give her some facts, then.

"When I brought up the 'fifteen seconds' argument, didn't I hurt your feelings?" Harry asked, and Hermione visibly tensed. "I remember this because I didn't realize it at the time. Remus was the one who told me that I took things too far, which made me feel horrible enough that I begged the others to not go after you. We need you, and you're using that 'fact' to get away with being mean to everyone."

"Oh…" Hermione muttered.

"Winning isn't worth hurting people," Harry said. "Remember what happened after we blew up Snape's lab? Everything with Ron went downhill from there, and it was because we didn't care about other people." I'm surprised that I learned this lesson before she did; but then again, Neville helped me a lot along the way. "Let's just stick with the plan we have, and trust that our teammates can hold off Ron's friends. Okay?"

Hermione looked both guilty and hesitant at the same time, but in the end, she gave him a quick nod.

"Are you guys coming?" Dean called. "Professor Lupin's called us out."

"Let's go," Harry said, and they both rejoined the others. "Guys, we're going with the original plan. Hermione and I will try to take Ron down, while you three keep Ron's friends busy. Nott and Bulstrode are especially strong, so watch out for them."

"Is she on board with this?" Seamus asked.

"She is," Harry replied for Hermione. "Stay focused, and keep moving. We can do this."

"We beat Hufflepuff, didn't we?" Dean tried to lighten the mood.

"What do you mean by 'we'?" Fay giggled, and Harry himself felt a bit relieved. Good. We're all on the same page again.

They made their way into the arena, and eventually, they met the Slytherins in the middle. Nott, Bulstrode, Malfoy, and Zabini looked ready for action, while Ron was staring off into space again. He looks so much worse from up close. His hair is a mess, he has sleep marks on his face, and his eyes are baggy and bloodshot. Did he not sleep last night? Or is he feeling sick? Without thinking, Harry quickly walked over to Ron before Remus could start the match.

"Ron, are you all right?" Harry asked, and Ron lazily looked to Harry.

"Oh, just tired," Ron yawned. "Don't worry about me, mate. There's no need to hold back."

"I wasn't thinking of holding back," Harry said without thinking, but Ron seemed pleased with that answer.

"Good," Ron smiled a bit. "Never do half-measures, Harry."

"I was thinking that you shouldn't compete if you're sick," Harry clarified.

"Are you trying to suggest that I quit?" Ron chuckled. "Not very subtle there, Harry."

"What? No," Harry said quickly. "Ron, you could get hurt really badly, right? I know that your condition is none of my business, but I don't want to see things become worse for you."

Ron just stared at Harry, and then, he put his gloved hand on Harry's left shoulder. Is he wearing a different glove today?

"I'm not sick, I promise," Ron said, and then he shot a quick look back at his friends. "If I were sick, they wouldn't let me come here. I just didn't sleep last night, and because of that, I'm knackered."

Harry looked to Ron's friends, and he saw that they were all staring back at him. I think he's right. Greengrass definitely wouldn't have gone looking for him, nor would she allow him to compete if he were sick.

"If you're sure," Harry sighed out. "I'll tell the others not to aim for your head."

"They shouldn't be doing that in the first place," Ron sniggered. "Always aim for the torso, Harry. It's a bigger target." He's a bit weird, isn't he? He openly just gave his opponent advice. I mean, Remus taught me this already, but Ron doesn't know that.

"Good luck," Harry said as he turned to leave.

"Same to you," Ron said, and Harry left to go rejoin his team.

"What was that about?" Seamus asked immediately.

"I was making sure if he was fit to compete," Harry replied.

"Why? Him being tired is good for us," Seamus said.

"He could get hurt if he's unwell," Hermione said.

"Harry, you did the right thing," Fay smiled at him, which made Harry slightly tense. No, I need to focus. Don't get distracted right now because of a pretty girl.

"Just don't aim for his head," Harry said, which earned him a couple of confused looks. "If he's really that tired, it could seriously hurt him." That was terrible reasoning, Harry.

"Are both teams ready?!" Remus suddenly asked, and Harry quickly turned to face the Slytherins. "Slytherins?"

"We're ready," Nott replied, while Ron yawned again. His stance looks really sloppy. Yeah, he's totally out of it.

"We got this, guys," Harry said, and then he looked to Remus. "We're ready, Professor."

"Then… Begin!" Remus announced.

"Expellia-" Harry tried to cast the first Spell, but a bright golden stream of light fired out of Ron's face before he could finish his incantation.

Harry had half a second to go wide-eyed at Ron's speed before he saw Hermione's shield go up in front of him. Sadly, Hermione's shield was eviscerated, and Harry was sent barreling through the sand. He was left utterly dazed; his ears were ringing due to the loud humming sound of the 'face laser'. Unsteadily, Harry looked around to gauge his surroundings, and he saw that Hermione was lying unconscious not too far from him. There was blood all over her mouth, and when Harry saw one of her front teeth lying by her head, his brain turned off. He didn't even feel the stunner that smashed into his side a second later.

Ronald Weasley's POV

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (The Quidditch Pitch – Midday)

Ron Non-Verbally stunned Thomas, who was the only Gryffindor who had managed to get back on his feet after Ron's Wandless Lumos Solem. What was that? Five seconds for five people? Hermione's Non-Verbal shield never stood a chance against a Progenitor Spell. Especially a Progenitor Spell that was strengthened by Cutis Terra. Even Madam Roberts struggled to stop that combination.

Ron rubbed his left eye with his knuckles, and then he yawned once again. My fucking bones hurt because of how tired I am. Fuck this, I'm going back to sleep. Ron turned around and walked past his frozen-solid friends, maybe he could ask Marty to meet him halfway? Actually, I'd rather not Apparate right now. I'll probably have a seizure, or something. By the time he reached the exit, the Slytherins had started cheering for him. So loud… My delicate, damaged brain…

He made his way out of the arena, and instead of walking towards the stands; he headed straight for the exit.

"Ron, wait!" Millie called out, and Ron turned around rather lazily. Please don't yell near me. I'll shatter into a million pieces.

"Yes, Mills?" Ron asked as his friends caught up to him.

"What the bloody hell was that?" Malfoy asked, he sounded more shocked than upset.

"Yeah… I didn't feel like fighting an actual Duel," Ron rubbed the back of his sore neck. "Sorry, you lot… I know the plan was to show off Slytherin's skill, but I'm just fucked. I need to go to sleep." I spent all night thinking about my upcoming damnation, and then, I fell asleep whilst repairing the Sanctuary. I've earned my beauty sleep.

"Why wasn't this always the plan?" Theo asked.

"Because I wanted you all to practice Dueling," Ron shrugged. "This Dueling Tournament is made to train the students in self-defense, and I didn't want to ruin that by just doing everything myself." Oh, well… "I'm going to bed. I'll see you guys at dinner."

"You're sleeping through the whole day?" Millie asked.

"No, I've got stuff to do," Ron began walking away. "I'll be leaving Hogwarts in a couple of hours. Enjoy the Tournament, and make sure that you pick up some neat tricks." I need to ask Susan about her Shield Charm myself. That was fucking brilliant.

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (The Boys' Room – Afternoon)

"Ron, wake up," came Daphne's voice, and Ron groaned petulantly as he turned on his side.

"Go 'way…" Ron grumbled. "I'm trying to sleep here…"

"But it's already half past three," Daphne shook him lightly. "Didn't you have errands to run today?"

Ron's eyes slowly opened, and he looked over his shoulder with a slight frown. Daphne was sitting on the edge of his bed, a bright smile on her face. Why would she wake me up? Usually, she'd just let me sleep if I was tired. Does she want something?

"You need something from Diagon Alley," Ron figured, his head dropping back on his pillow.

"What? No, Ron," Daphne feigned innocence, but he knew her playful voice too well. "I'm just here to wake you up like you asked. Remember?" I do remember… Fuck my errands; I just want to keep sleeping.

"What do you want, Daph?" Ron groaned into his pillow. "I'm too tired to play your games."

"You're so grouchy today," Daphne reached over and pinched his cheek. Unhand me, deviant!

"No…" Ron whined as he tried to hide his face. "Stop it."

"I'll stop when you wake up," Daphne giggled, her free hand tickling his side.

A jolt of electricity ran through his side, and Ron wiggled about in order to get away from her hands. She definitely had no intention of letting him sleep through the day, and in the end, Ron decided to just wake up and get on with his day.

"Ugh… I feel sick…" Ron muttered as he rubbed his face.

"Really?" Daphne lost most of her mirth. I shouldn't make her worry needlessly.

"It's because I'm tired," Ron assured her. "Not because of my conditions."

"Are you sure?" she asked, and Ron nodded. "All right… If you're certain, then I won't push you."

"Thank you," Ron yawned. "Merlin… I'm so tired."

"If you sleep through the day, you'll ruin your sleeping pattern," Daphne said.

"Yes, and you won't get what you want," Ron smirked.

"I have no idea what you're talking about, Ronald," Daphne smirked back.

"Right…" Ron shook his head clear. "What do you want, Daph?"

Daphne's smirk turned into a bright smile again, and she scooted closer to him.

"Blaise's birthday is tomorrow," Daphne started. I know… What should I get him? Maybe he'll start talking to me again if I get him something that he likes? "Pansy and I ordered the cake, but we waited a little too long… I need you to go pick it up from Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor because they can't deliver it in time."

"Did you order it this morning?" Ron asked. "They usually deliver within two days."

"Getting a cake for Blaise isn't easy," Daphne replied. "You know how he is, right? He won't eat it if it doesn't meet his standards." He's such a food snob. "It's a pistachio chocolate chip ice-cream cake."

"A what?" Ron blinked. "Pistachios? On a cake? And what's an ice-cream cake?"

"A cake made from ice-cream," Daphne replied, and Ron just stared at her. Is this a Pure-Blood thing that I'm too much of a Blood-Traitor to understand? "You've never had one? They're amazing!" A cake made from ice-cream… Bloody hell, I should tell my siblings about this. They'd be just as shocked as I am.

"I'll pick it up on my way back," Ron promised, he had to see this cake for himself. "Anything else?"

"I haven't bought him a present yet," Daphne replied. "Honestly, I don't know what to get him, and I wanted some help."

"Actually, I haven't gotten him anything either," Ron told her. "Maybe we can split a gift?" It'd definitely help my pouch.

"That's perfect," she sounded quite relieved. "So? What did you plan to get him?"

"I was just going to look around until I found something," Ron admitted.

"Ron, this is Blaise that we're talking about…" Daphne was a little surprised by Ron's lack of preparation. "We can't just get him something random… He has specific tastes."

"A gift's a gift, right? It's the thought that counts," Ron said.

"People who say that clearly don't know how to give gifts," Daphne said.

"What's your idea, then?" Ron asked.

"Oh! Why don't you get him something from Sugarplum's Sweets Shop?" Daphne suggested. "He loves Ice Mice, right?"

"Shouldn't we get him something more lasting?" Ron asked. "Like a Tome, or something?"

"A Tome?" Daphne asked. "Ron, that's something that you would like." True.

"Eh, I'll figure something out when I'm there," Ron said "I'll bring back a receipt, and you can pay me back."

"All right," Daphne agreed. "I'll have Marty prepare you something to eat while you shower. Don't take too long, okay? Fortescue's closes early on Sundays."

Twenty Minutes Later

"Marty has prepared Master's clothes," Marty greeted Ron with a bow. Bloody hell… Thank Merlin that I'm wearing my towel.

"Thanks, Marty," Ron said tensely, he didn't like being on full display like this. "I'll get ready immediately."

With that, Ron quickly moved to his bed and closed the curtains. His fresh, beige suit was waiting for him on his bed, and Ron began dressing without hesitation. It's a bit too flashy, but it's better than nothing. Once he was fully dressed, Ron fixed his hair back into place before he came back out of hiding. Marty was giving him a friendly smile, which convinced Ron that Marty was trying to not bother him. What am I thinking? This is Marty! He doesn't care about my scars.

"Sorry about that, Marty," Ron apologized. "I was just caught off-guard, and acted stupidly."

"Master has nothing to apologize for," Marty said. "Is Master hungry? Mistress asked Marty to bring Master a plate full of crispy bacon." Huh?

"Really?" Ron asked, his mouth almost salivating.

"Indeed, Master," Marty snapped his fingers, and a plate full of bacon was Conjured onto Ron's desk. Bacon and Conjuration Magic? Am I sure that it's not my birthday tomorrow?

Ron walked over and leaned against his desk, his left hand quickly plucking up a sizzling piece. It smells so good! Ron bit into it, and he relished the taste. Daphne is the best!

"Master seems to be in a jolly mood today," Marty noted. "Has there been some good news?" Quite the opposite, mate. I'll be damned for all of eternity even if I succeed. That's how little my life means.

"I'm just trying to savor everything," Ron shrugged. "It's not every day that I get bacon delivered to my bedroom." I don't think the Entity knows what 'breakfast in bed' is. I might as well enjoy this while I can.

"Would that please Master?" Marty asked. "Marty can do this every day!" Tempting, but too selfish. I shouldn't treat Marty like some slave. It's not right.

"I'd lose my physique if you did that, mate," Ron smiled at his tiny friend. Change the subject. "Do you have some time to spare?"

"Always for Master," Marty walked over, his huge eyes glinting with excitement. Ignore his look of worship, Ron. That's just how Elves are.

"Right," Ron cleared his throat. "Can you teach me a little about Conjuration Magic? That's what you used to bring this plate here, right?"

"Master wants another lesson from Marty?" Marty blinked, and Ron nodded.

"If you've got time, yeah," Ron replied.

"Does it not bother Master to learn from Elves?" Marty asked slowly. "Marty does not wish to offend, but he is very curious about this."

"I don't mind learning from Elves," Ron admitted easily enough. "You taught me some really great Spells the last time, and you've been using Magic long before I was born. I trust you."

Marty thought about Ron's words, and then he smiled a toothy smile.

"Marty will live up to that trust, Master!" Marty promised happily. He's so excitable.

"So you'll teach me?"

"Certainly," Marty nodded. "How much does Master know about Conjuration Magic?"

Ron spent the next five minutes explaining his lesson with Dumbledore; he had memorized the five Principle Exceptions to Gamp's Law. He also talked about his own attempts at Conjuration Magic, making sure to tell Marty that he could now summon a couple of living birds.

"They chirp and fly around like they're supposed," Ron finished. It took me a bloody month to master such a basic Spell, though…

"Master clearly knows the basics," Marty started. "Marty can teach Master Wizard Spells used for conjuring many animals."

"What about conjuring whatever I want?" Ron asked.

"That is very advanced Magic, Master," Marty replied. "Marty believes that Master should hone his basics first. Otherwise, Master could get hurt."

"Hurt?" Ron asked.

"Magic must be respected, or it seeks vengeance," Marty said, he almost sounded a little ominous.

"Um… Okay," Ron said, and then he bit into another piece. "Teaching me Spells is great, but maybe you could offer me some tips too? Please?"

"Oh, of course!" Marty said quickly, going back to his cheery self. "Master would do well to understand whatever he is conjuring. Master must be able to visualize whatever he needs without needing to create his own details."

"So I should know exactly what these animals look like?" Ron asked for clarification. "I've conjured a snake before, but I didn't really know what it would look like."

"Master lives within the Slytherin common room," Marty pointed out. "Marty is certain that that helped Master greatly." Oh. I guess there are snakes everywhere.

"How do I learn about these animals? Should I go to a zoo, or something?" Ron asked.

"Master can just buy some Magizoologist Magazines," Marty replied. "Newt Scamander's works are very detailed! He's even done some work on Non-Magical Creatures!" I can do that today, actually.

"Thanks, Marty," Ron smiled widely. "Hey… Are you free today?"

"Marty has already finished his work within the Kitchens," Marty replied.

"Really?" Ron asked, and Marty nodded. "Then why don't we go to Diagon Alley together? We haven't spent much time together lately, right?"

"Marty would be honored!" Marty beamed. "Shall we go now?!"

"Let me just grab a few more pieces," Ron said.

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (Madam Malkin's – Late Afternoon)

"My Master will be attending a masquerade soon," Marty lied to Madam Malkin. "He requires a complete outfit made from your best materials, Madam." Huh? We just need a disguise, Marty. It doesn't have to be extravagant.

"A masquerade?" Madam Malkin looked towards Ron, who gave her a pleasant smile. I remember when she fitted me for my school robes. "I haven't heard of any upcoming masquerades."

"This is more of a party instead of a full-blown ball," Ron lied.

"I see," Madam Malkin said. "Very well, follow me please."

Madam Malkin led them to the back of her shop, and Ron couldn't help but notice that the clothes were getting flashier the further they went. Is she taking us to some secret room? Ron shot Marty a quick glance, and he saw that his friend was completely calm. He's clearly done this before. I'll just follow his lead on this, I reckon.

"Here we are," Madam Malkin came to a stop. "These are my very best."

She pointed towards the wall to Ron's right, and Ron looked to see a wall covered with colorful and imaginative masks. Woah… Some of these are really eye-catching. Look at that jester one! It has three faces!

"Do you know which character you wish to play?" Madam Malkin asked. Character?

"My Master must look opulent and imperial," Marty replied for Ron. What?! It's supposed to be a disguise, Marty.

"I can see that," Madam Malkin looked Ron over with a critical eye. "Tall. Broad shouldered. Excellent posture. And the early signs of a strong chin. Yes… I have just the mask for him."

Madam Malkin flicked her wand at the wall, and a shiny black mask with gold ornate patterns around the eyes floated over to her. She handed Ron the mask, and Ron studied it with a hint of awe. It'll cover my whole face except for my chin, and the upper half of it looks like a crown. I like it, though it is a bit gaudy.

"This is a bit too much, right?" Ron showed Marty the mask. "It's got a crown on top of it-"

"A masquerade mask must show your inner persona," Madam Malkin said. You don't want to see my inner persona, trust me. "However, if you are not comfortable with it, then we should find you something else. Your mask must represent your inner self, and no one knows that side of you better than you do." Should I really waste my time with this? Maybe I should just buy this one and be on my way?

Ron looked back to the wall, his eyes looking for a mask that spoke to his 'inner persona'. My inner persona… My true self. Ron's eyes landed on a silver mask, one that would cover his entire face. It was simply a silver mask, though it did have black smudges around the eyes. What did my past self call the Entity? The Faceless God? Well, I don't really feel like I have a 'real face'. I'm always pretending to be someone else.

"Can I see that silver one?" Ron asked, and Madam Malkin followed his gaze.

"The Stranger?" Madam Malkin cocked an eyebrow.

"Is that what it's called?" Ron asked. Sounds perfect.

"Yes," Madam Malkin gave Ron an odd look. "Very well… Let me get it for you."

She retrieved the handsome mask and handed it to Ron, who immediately noticed that it was heavier than the old mask. Odd, considering how plain this one is.

"This is made from actual metal?" Ron asked, his thumbs caressing the hard surface.

"It's pure silver," Madam Malkin replied. "Made by a Goblin blacksmith I know."

"It's so… simple," Ron smiled a little. "It's just a face. No fancy patterns, no crowns, and no gold."

"The Stranger represents the unknown," Madam Malkin told him. "He revels in the comfort that comes from being hidden in the shadows." It's just a mask… She's making me cringe with this sort of talk.

"Is Master sure about this one?" Marty asked, and Ron nodded.

"Can I try it on?" Ron asked Madam Malkin.

"Of course," Madam Malkin replied. "Though I must admit, no one has touched that mask for the last four years. I think this is the first time that anyone's taken an interest in it."

Ron placed the mask onto his face, and he felt it stick immediately. Sticking Charms? That's quite clever.

"How do I look?" Ron asked them, his voice slightly muffled due to the mask.

"Marty cannot even see Master's eyes," Marty said.

"That's what the black smudges around the eyes are for," Madam Malkin told the Elf. "The Stranger is meant to be unrecognizable, after all." I'm getting this one for sure.

"I'll take it," Ron said, and Madam Malkin gave him a nod.

"Do you also need dress robes?" Madam Malkin asked, and then she looked him over again. "Muggle suits clearly agree with you, and I have a wide range of stylish new suits. The latest Muggle fashion, I promise."

"Master will look at these new suits," Marty said. I will? But I already have a lot of suits.

"Come," Madam Malkin began making her way towards the other end of the shop.

"Marty, I've got suits," Ron whispered as they followed her.

"Master wishes to be disguised, does he not?" Marty whispered back. "If Master dresses up as a stylish Muggle, no one will suspect him. Marty can even turn Master's hair a different color." Oh. "No one will ever be able to recognize Master in his disguise, Marty will make sure of it."

Twenty Minutes Later

"I have to admit," Ron started; they were walking towards Martin's Jewelry Shop. "My new 'tuxedo' looks really fucking dapper. Doesn't it?" Muggles really know what they're about. I reckon I should talk to Tracey and Hermione about Muggle culture. I might learn something important.

"Most definitely, Master," Marty nodded excitedly. "And are these clothes for Mistress?"

Ron looked to the floating bag that Marty was looking to, and he shook his head.

"No, Daphne's already got running gear," Ron replied. "These are for my sister. It just occurred to me that she only has Quidditch gear, and I can't expect her to go running in that."

"Master's sister will be joining him from now?" Marty asked.

"Yeah," Ron couldn't help but smile a little. I made a good decision whilst being on the Calming Draught. Ginny will benefit from this, I'm sure of it. "Now, let me tell you why I need to go see Martin."

"Marty is listening," Marty put on a serious, yet adorable, expression.

"I found a room within Hogwarts," Ron started. "It's like a treasure room, or something. It's filled with all manner of things, including trunks full of jewels. As far as I'm concerned, all of that stuff is right for the taking."

"Is Master referring to the Room of Hidden Things?" Marty asked, making Ron stop abruptly.

"You know about it?" Ron asked.

"The Hogwarts Elves help fill it," Marty replied. "Marty has dropped off many unwanted objects within the Room of Hidden Things."

"Really? Why?" Ron asked.

"It is Hogwarts' bin," Marty replied with a smile.

"Bin? As in trash?" Ron was a little more amused now. I've been promoted to trash-picker? Mum and dad would be so proud. "Would the Elves be upset if I steal from it?"

"Not at all," Marty assured him. Good, then it's free game. "Personally, Marty thinks that this is a brilliant idea. Master should focus on filling his coffers for his plans." I love this Elf. He can be delightfully devious every now and then.

"Do you want to help me?" Ron smirked, and Marty nodded enthusiastically.

"Marty would be honored," Marty beamed.

"My free periods are on Thursday," Ron's smirk turned into a smile. "After lunch."

"Marty will fulfill his duties early, then," Marty promised.

They finally reached their destination, and without wasting a second, Ron led the way inside. Once Marty was inside, Ron shut the door behind him. Martin was standing behind his counter, and he was looking at Ron with an odd look. What? You know who I am. I sold you shady emeralds not even a month ago.

"Master, please do not hold the door open for Marty," Marty whispered, and Ron cocked an eyebrow. "It is not proper…" Ah, now it makes sense.

"Good manners aren't proper?" Ron asked. "C'mon, Marty… It's just a door, mate. Let's go."

Ron began moving towards the counter, and by the time he reached it, Martin was smiling faintly at him. Now he looks pleased.

"Mr. Weasley," Martin greeted in his shy, but pleasant, voice. "That was nice of you. Not many people treat Elves with respect."

"Oh," Ron muttered, and then he smiled back. "I know, right? I take it that you like Elves."

"They are kind and friendly, unlike most of the wizards I've known," Martin shot Marty a wider smile. Is it just me? Or is Martin really odd? He doesn't make eye contact, and his posture makes him look much smaller than he really is.

"You've known many terrible wizards, then?" Ron asked.

"It is the price for working in the Upper District," Martin all but whispered. "Um… Are you here to purchase a gift for Lady Greengrass? I have a sale on my diamond pieces." Really? Maybe I should get Daphne something special? She's been through a lot lately because of me, and without her, I would have gone crazy.

With his mind made up, Ron decided that he was going to thank Daphne properly. I'll arrange a dinner date with her tonight! Marty can help me set it up!

"Before I go and do that, I want to talk to you about something," Ron said.

"You do?" Martin asked slowly.

"You remember how I sold you those emeralds?" Ron asked, and Martin gave a weak nod.

"Were the cufflinks deficient?" Martin asked.

"Oh, no," Ron replied. "My brother loved them, trust me. Anyway… I want to sell you more gems." A bit too forward, but that shouldn't bother him too much. He's definitely done shady deals before I came along.

"Pardon?" Martin blinked. "Mr. Weasley, I am not sure what to make of this…"

"You need gems for your work, right?" Ron asked. "I'll just act as another jewel seller."

"These jewels that you wish to sell me…" Martin started softly. "Are… Are they stolen?" Merlin, why is he so timid? "I don't wish to offend, but your Family's-"

"The gems are not stolen," Ron said. "They haven't belonged to anyone for a very long time."

Martin seemed to relax a bit at that.

"Master is no thief, good Sir," Marty added, and Martin shot Ron an apologetic smile.

"Do you have a sample, then?" Martin asked. Damn, I didn't even think of that.

"Marty," Ron looked to the Elf, who cracked away in an instant. "While he brings the sample, can you please show me your diamond pieces?"

"Um… Of course," Martin gestured towards the display case to Ron's right.

Ron looked to the shiny jewelry, and he wondered which of these would please Daphne most. I've given her earrings, a tennis bracelet, and a hairpin. Maybe I should get her a necklace this time?

"Which of these necklaces do you think she would like?" Ron asked Martin, who quickly walked over.

"She has always gravitated towards the latest fashion fads," Martin started. "I recommend the diamond studded choker. The chokers are a new addition to my designs, and they are quickly becoming a favorite."

"Choker, you say?" Ron nodded slowly. "It won't choke her, will it?"

"Pardon?" Martin blinked at his stupidity.

"Never mind," Ron looked back to the pieces. "So which one is the choker?"

"That one," Martin pointed towards it.

The diamond studded choker looked rather small for a necklace, but it was most definitely beautiful. The diamond studs sparkled as if they were Magical, and the drop-shaped diamond that was attached at the bottom made the whole piece look regal.

"That's really nice," Ron smiled to himself. "Is it supposed to be that small, though?"

"It is meant to hug the neck," Martin replied.

"Then I'll take it," Ron said, and Martin unlocked the case before taking out the choker.

They walked over to the counter, and while Ron pulled out his Pouch, Martin packed the choker inside an elegant looking box.

"That'll be two-hundred and twenty Galleons, Mr. Weasley," Martin said. Wasn't that piece on sale? Merlin, what was the original price? The buyer's soul?

Marty suddenly cracked into the shop, something that made Martin jump from fright.

"Marty has brought a sample," Marty beamed, a sizable ruby sitting in his hands. That's a big fucking gem!

"By the Gods…" Martin walked around the counter, a baffled look on his face. "Is that real?"

"Have a look at it," Ron said. If it is, then I'm going to be a very rich man.

Martin carefully took the gem from Marty, and then he disappeared into the back of his shop. This left Marty and Ron alone in the shop, and Ron figured that he'd ask for Marty's help with his dating plans.

"Marty, can I ask for another favor from you?" Ron asked.

"Does Master wish for another sample?" Marty asked.

"No, the one you brought was brilliant," Ron replied. "I wanted some help with setting up a date with Daphne, and I was wondering if I could count on you."

"A date with Mistress?!" Marty looked rather excited. Too excited… "Master can always count on Marty in these matters!"

"Thanks," Ron chuckled. "I was thinking about a romantic dinner tonight. You know, table cloths and candles… Something fancy. What do you think?"

"Mistress must be treated as an honored Lady," Marty nodded his agreement. Yeah, that's what I totally meant. "Marty can arrange all of that! Would Master like to order food from a restaurant, or should Marty cook?"

"Um…" Ron started.

"Marty will cook," Marty volunteered. "Marty knows what Mistress and Master like to eat! A beef dish for Master, and a pork dish for Mistress!" Slow down, mate… "Oh! Marty will set up everything in the Astronomy Tower! There are no classes today, and with a few Charms, Marty can make the Astronomy Tower look heavenly!" Shit, he's got all the good ideas. Is Marty better at dating than me? I don't know how I feel about that.

"That sounds brilliant," Ron said, and Marty beamed once again. "Thank you, Marty." Don't look a gift griffon in the mouth, Ron.

Marty went back to planning the perfect date in his mind, while Ron waited around for Martin to return. After nearly five minutes, Martin rushed out of the back of his shop.

"This is a legitimate uncut ruby," Martin told Ron. Fuck, yes! "I could make several pieces with this big a gem!" He's definitely excited now.

"So you're in?" Ron asked. "I'll make it worth your while, mate. I promise."

"I'll count this gem as your payment for the choker, then," Martin said. My gem looks way more expensive than your choker. Wait… I should let him keep it. It'll serve as a kind gesture of goodwill.

"Then I'll be seeing you again soon," Ron put his hand forward, and Martin examined it before shaking it.

Twenty Minutes Later

"Could I also please grab a tub of Honey Macadamia to go?" Ron asked.

"Certainly," the young witch said as she went about her task.

"All right, this is Daphne's favorite ice cream," Ron told Marty. "Can you serve it as the dessert?"

"A brilliant idea, Master," Marty nodded. I finally pitched a good idea! I'm back in the game!

"That'll be seven sickles," the witch said, and Ron promptly paid her.

After Ron Charmed the cake and the ice cream to float after him, Ron started making his way out of the shop. What else do I need to get done? Should I go see Gornuk about Robert Bulstrode? No, I'll give him another week to keep looking. I guess I just need to buy Blaise a present, and after that, I can go home.

"Marty, let's head to Cronus' Clockworks," Ron said, he had an idea brewing in his head. "I want to get a new pocket watch." Would he appreciate that? I mean, he broke the one his stepfather gave him. I'm not Blaise's father figure, but I do see him as my brother. That should make this fine, right?

Marty led the way towards the Wizarding watch shop, while Ron silently struggled with inner turmoil. He didn't want to cross any lines with Blaise right now, and Blaise really wasn't the sentimental sort. He might not see this as a kind gesture, but rather me trying to pressure him again. I'm totally overthinking this, aren't I? If Blaise takes offence, I'll just tell him that it was Daphne's idea. He has no reason to be mad with her.

Once they were inside the shop, Ron made his way towards the counter while Marty remained by the door.

"Hello," Ron greeted the old shopkeeper.

"Oh, you're that famous young lad from the papers," the old man smiled at him rather affectionately. Um… There's love in those eyes… Why? "Ronald Weasley, right? My wife is always harping on about you! Hogwarts' new prodigy!"

"Um… Yeah, that's me," Ron chuckled nervously. "It's nice to meet you, Sir. What's your name?"

"Ha, 'Sir'?" the old man laughed. "Call me Thomas, please! 'Sir' just reminds me of how old I am!"

"Okay, Thomas," Ron started. "Can you please show me some pocket watches? It's my friend's fourteenth birthday tomorrow, and it's his Family's tradition to give him a pocket watch when he starts becoming a man."

"Is your friend from Wizarding Italy?" Thomas asked.

"Sort of," Ron replied. "His mother grew up in Italy, though she studied at Hogwarts. My friend spent a lot of time in Italy whilst growing up."

"And he doesn't have a father who can give him a watch?" Thomas asked. Is this guy from Italy too? He seems to know an awful lot.

"Um… No, he doesn't," Ron replied. "I don't want to play some fatherly role for him, but I just figured that this would be a nice gesture."

"Your friend sounds like a lucky young man," Thomas said in a grandfatherly manner. "Come, come… I'll show you some really beautiful little pieces."

The shop door suddenly swung open, and Ron looked back to see an elderly witch barge into the shop. She had a bag of groceries floating behind her, and a rather cheery smile on her face.

"Love, I'm back," the witch announced herself. "I'll go make you your lunch first-"

"Marge, look who it is," Thomas gestured towards Ron. Wait; is she the wife who 'harps on' about me?

"Oh, my stars!" the elderly witch gasped. "It's you!"

"Hello, Ma'am," Ron greeted; he didn't know why he felt a little nervous right now. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Oh, and he's polite!" the witch beamed. "Hold on, shouldn't you be at Hogwarts?" Busted.

"He's here to buy his friend a gift," Thomas told his wife. "His friend is from Italy, but he doesn't have a father who can give him a pocket watch."

"And you've decided to fill that role?" the witch asked.

"Not quite-" Ron started.

"You're just like I imagined!" the witch said. What? "Are you hungry, dear? I can make you and your little friend some sandwiches while my husband shows you his collection."

"Oh… Please, there's no need for that-"

"Nonsense!" the witch quickly made her way towards the back of the shop. "I'll be right back out!" What just happened?!

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (Diagon Alley – Nearly Evening)

"Merlin, that was weird," Ron muttered as he finished his sandwich.

"They were very kind," Marty said, he was still munching on his sandwich. I know, which is why I didn't refuse them. Usually, I'm a lot more careful. Oh, well… They were a kind pair, and I'm glad that I ran into them. "Does Master have any more business within Diagon Alley?"

"No, I reckon we're done here," Ron replied.

"Does Master wish to return to Hogwarts?" Marty asked.

"Drop me off on the seventh floor broom closet," Ron requested, and Marty gave him a nod.

They grabbed all the floating items, and then Marty Apparated them to Hogwarts. As soon as Ron's feet touched the ground, his blood pressure dropped. He suffered a head rush unlike any before it, and it took all of his agility to keep him on his feet. Bloody hell… My brain… I feel so dizzy… He tried to shake his head clear, but that only made things worse.

"Master?" Marty tugged at his sleeve.

"I'm okay," Ron muttered. "Just give me a second, please." Why is this happening?

Marty stood by quietly, though Ron could feel his gaze even in the dark. After a few seconds, Ron felt blood slowly rush back into his face. His dizziness began to leave him, which made it easier for his eyes to adjust to the dark.

"I'm feeling better," Ron told Marty. "It's okay, Marty."

"Master should go and rest inside the Sanctuary," Marty suggested.

"My plan exactly," Ron chuckled weakly. "Can you take everything but Ginny's running gear and the presents?"

"Marty will store the food inside the Kitchens," Marty replied. "As for the disguise, Marty will take it to the Chamber."

"Store it near the Basilisk skin," Ron said. We need to do something about that skin, actually. "Marty, do you remember our plan to line my suits with the Basilisk skin?"

"Marty remembers," Marty replied quickly.

"Let's look into that, yeah?" Ron asked.

"Certainly, Master," Marty agreed. "Does Master need anything else?"

"No, mate, I'll see you later," Ron replied, his free hand patting Marty's thin shoulder. I'm going to go take a nap.

Thirty Minutes Later

The Group Tournaments had finished earlier than Ron had expected, which resulted in Ron running into a bunch of Gryffindors near the Gryffindor Tower entrance. They didn't look to be in a good mood, and when they saw him, they immediately began to eyeball him. Are these guys sixth years?

"What are you doing here, Weasley?" one of the boys asked.

"Do you know if my sister is inside?" Ron asked. "I need to talk to her."

"Why don't you wait until dinner, huh?" the raven-haired boy scoffed. "Get out of here, snake." Don't. Make. A. Scene. Ron.

Somehow, Ron managed to keep himself calm. It's not worth it. You've had a good day, and you have a really important date with Daphne coming up. Just ignore this twat.

"Kenneth, don't be a prick," the other boy spoke up. "He just wants to see his sister."

"What's the matter with you, Kenneth?" the only girl rolled her eyes. "Oi, I'll go look for your sister, yeah? Just wait here." See, it worked out.

"Thank you," Ron said politely, while 'Kenneth' glared at him.

"Good stuff in the Tournament, Weasley," the brown haired boy said. "You showed off some really flashy Magic. It didn't beat your performance at the last Tournament, but it was still pretty neat." Wow! A real compliment from a Gryffindor?!

"Tim!" Kenneth snapped. "Stop entertaining him-"

"Thanks, Tim," Ron cut in. "How did Gryffindor go today?"

"Yeah, you left, didn't you?" Tim remembered. "Pretty bold move there, by the way. I'm shocked that the Professors didn't tell you off." They could tell that I needed my rest.

"Got lucky," Ron shrugged with a smile. I like this 'Tim' bloke.

"Yeah, you definitely get lucky often, don't you?" Kenneth said bitterly. "Is it nice to have everything handed to you on a platter?"

"Give it a rest," Tim sighed. "Ignore him, Weasley. He's just bitter because Gryffindor got demolished today. Only our fifth year team won… The rest didn't even stand a chance." The fifth years?

"The twins won?" Ron asked, though he wasn't surprised.

"The twins and Lee Jordan did some really hilarious Magic during their Duel against Cedric's lot," Tim said. "Shame you missed it." Yeah, that is a shame. Damn. I'd have loved to see Cedric running around. What a handsome lad!

"Which year are you in?" Ron asked Tim.

"Sixth," Tim replied.

"Did you take part in the Duels today?" Ron asked.

"No, but Kenneth did," Tim replied. "How'd that turn out, mate?"

"Sod off," Kenneth spat out, and then he left for Gryffindor Tower. "Red-haired tosser." Yeesh… What a ponce.

"How are you friends with him?" Ron asked.

"Oh, he's all right," Tim replied lazily. "He's just really competitive, and he got disarmed immediately. It was rather pathetic."

"Did he lose to Slytherin?" Ron asked.

"Everyone lost to Slytherin," Tim replied. Fuck, yes! Now we're completely unbeatable. "Well, except for our fifth years."

"Ron?" came Ginny's voice, and Ron looked to see her walking over to him.

"I'll be off," Tim walked off towards his female friend. "See you around, Weasley." Oh, you definitely will. You're perfect for my study group.

"Hello, Ginny," Ron greeted his sister.

"Hi… What's that?" Ginny pointed to the floating bag behind him.

"I got you something," Ron grabbed the bag. "It's running gear for tomorrow."

"Running gear?" Ginny blinked. "So… Your friends said yes to me joining you lot?" Not yet.

"They have," Ron lied. "Here, take it."

Ginny slowly took the bag from Ron, and then she peered inside it. I hope she likes it. It's a bit unflattering, but it'll keep her nice and warm.

"Um… Thank you, Ron," Ginny looked back up with a surprised smile. "I was just going to run in my Quidditch gear…"

"That's too heavy to run in," Ron said. "This is closer to what I wear. It'll keep you really warm, I promise." And covered, which is the most important part.

"And you got me new shoes?" Ginny looked back inside the bag.

"Runners," Ron replied. "They've got a Fitting Charm on them, so they'll never fall off."

"This is really sweet, Ron," Ginny said, and Ron smiled without realizing. "I'll definitely come tomorrow."

"Brilliant," Ron gave an approving nod. "I'll see you there, then."

"Wait," Ginny stopped him before he could turn around. "About your Duel with Harry and Hermione… Ron, you should apologize to Hermione."

"Why?" Ron asked.

"You knocked one of her teeth out," Ginny replied. I did?

"Seriously?" Ron felt guilt creep up on him. Shit. Did I use too much power? I was really fucking out of it, so I might've overdone it a bit.

"It was pretty scary," Ginny admitted. "After you just walked off, Remus started calling for help. Madam Pomfrey had to tend to her on the spot. Oh, and Seamus sprained his wrist as well. Fay landed right on top of it."

"Fucking hell," Ron sighed out.

"Hermione's in the Hospital Wing right now," Ginny told him. "Neville and Harry are there with her. She's on a Pain Relief Potion, and so she's not allowed to leave Madam Pomfrey's sight."

"I'll go and talk to her," Ron said. "And apologize… I definitely overdid it today."

"Yeah… What kind of Magic was that, Ron?" Ginny asked curiously. "It was so bright… A lot of us had to shield our eyes."

"It's a Progenitor Spell," Ron replied.

"A what?" Ginny blinked.

"A Spell made before wands came into being," Ron clarified, and Ginny's eyes widened a little. "It's Old Magic, and in order to cast it, I've had to train constantly without fail."

"Is this how you spend your spare time?" Ginny asked. "Just learning powerful Spells?"

"Pretty much," Ron replied. "Anyway, I'll go see Hermione. Don't forget that we are meeting up at six in the morning tomorrow. Don't be late."

"You're not coming to dinner?" Ginny asked.

"I've got plans," Ron replied as he began to leave. "Bye, Ginny."

"Bye, Ron," Ginny waved him off. That went really well, I think. Now, I just need to talk to my friends about this.

Ron wasn't too worried about convincing them. They had a tendency to go along with his ideas, and they definitely knew how important Ginny was to Ron. Things will be awkward at first, especially between Ginny and Tracey, but they'll all get over it. Exercise is supposed to open people up, right? If Ginny can see my friends at their most normal, she'll definitely learn to ignore her worst ideas about us.

Ron entered the Hospital Wing, which was quite packed due to the Dueling Tournament. Madam Pomfrey must have her work cut out for her. Let's just go find Hermione. Ron figured that she'd be somewhere in the back where the other patients couldn't interact with her. She's probably feeling the Pain Relief Potion's side effects right now. Ron popped his head through some closed curtains, and quite luckily, he had found the Trio in his first attempt.

"Hello," Ron made his way inside.

"Ron?" Neville stood up, while Harry just stared at him. "What are you doing here?"

"I heard that Hermione got hurt because of me," Ron replied. "I came to apologize."

"Don't worry about it," Hermione waved a dismissive hand, she had a loopy look on her face. "Look at these!"

She smiled with all of her teeth, giving Ron a full view of her pearly whites. Um… What the fuck? Ron barely held back a laugh, and he could see that Neville was just as entertained. Harry looks a bit mopey, though.

"Well?" Hermione fixed her face. "Do you like them?"

"Your teeth?" Ron asked. "Yeah, they're nice. Very white."

"Didn't you notice my front teeth?" Hermione asked, suddenly sounding a little wounded. Front teeth? Oh! They're not as large anymore!

"Of course I did," Ron replied pleasantly. "I think you look brilliant! This look really suits you, Hermione!" Was that enough? Should I flatter her more?

"Brilliant?" Hermione began smiling, and then she snorted. "I look brilliant, he says…" Wow. She's lost all of her wits.

"I suppose she'll be spending the entire night in here?" Ron asked Neville.

"Looks like it," Neville smiled at Hermione. "Seeing her like this is pretty funny, right?"

"Definitely," Ron moved further in. "Hermione?"

"Yes, Ronald?" Hermione matched his tone.

"I'm really sorry about hurting you like that," Ron apologized. "I was really tired, but that's no excuse. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it," Hermione said casually. "They gave me the Pain Relief Potion, and that gave me the courage to have my teeth changed. My parents are dentists, you know? They wanted me to use braces, but I didn't like the idea of coming to Hogwarts in such a contraption. I read that witches and wizards can just shrink teeth-"

"Hermione, you're ranting again," Neville gently patted her shoulder. "Madam Pomfrey asked you to stay calm, remember?"

"Of course I remember," Hermione said defensively. "I was just telling Ron that I'm keeping my new 'look'."

"Good on you," Ron chuckled, and then he looked to Harry. "You all right, Harry?"

"Yeah…" Harry replied. Liar. "Are you feeling better now?"

"Yeah, I just needed some sleep," Ron replied. "I didn't hurt you as well, did I? If I did, I'm sorry." I think the only part of him I hurt was his pride.

"No, I came out all right," Harry said. "Don't worry about me."

"Ron, you prepared your Spell before Professor Lupin started the match, right?" Hermione cut into their conversation. "There's no way that someone could do Non-Verbal Magic that quickly." I did prepare Cutis Terra and Lumos Solem before the ready mark. I didn't want to give any of you time to move apart.

"There's no rule against it," Ron smiled at her.

"See? I told you," Hermione smirked at Harry, who just gave her a dull look. "Harry didn't believe me when I told him my theory. We never stood a chance. What was even the point in entering?" What?

Neville and Harry exchanged slow looks, both of them looking slightly put off. This is getting really awkward really fast.

"Oh… Um… I wouldn't say that," Ron said awkwardly. "If the Duel had gotten dragged out, you guys could've won."

"Not with Fay on our team," Hermione said. Wow.

"Don't blame Fay, Hermione," Harry said a little sternly. "It was no one's fault, so let's just leave it at that."

"Well, it certainly wasn't my fault," Hermione muttered under her breath. "You froze up, and I had to jump in with a weaker shield-"

"Maybe I should go?" Ron suggested, he didn't want to be here for this.

"Yeah, Hermione needs her rest," Neville gave him an out.

"I'll see you tomorrow, yeah?" Ron asked as he began to leave.

"See you tomorrow," Neville said, while Harry and Hermione ignored each other.

The moment Ron was past the curtains, he made a beeline for the exit. Hermione's in a really weird mood. She really doesn't like losing, does she? You know, I really like that about her. She's determined to be the best. Ron sped down to the Dungeons, which were oddly devoid of any Slytherins. No one is loitering about?

"Fork-tongued," Ron gave the password, and the entrance slid open.

Loud music immediately bombarded his ears, causing Ron to flinch. What the…? He made his way inside, his wide-eyes finding a jolly party. The Slytherins were celebrating their victory at the Group Tournaments, and judging by the state of some of them, alcohol was being passed around again. Why are they partying so early? What about dinner? Ron made his way past some enthusiastic dancers, his eyes peeled for his friends. Eventually, a hand found him and pulled him aside.

"Ron!" Tracey hugged him. "You're here!"

"Hello," Ron greeted his friends, they all looked to be having a great time.

"Finally!" Theo laughed. "Pansy, give him a cup!"

"Here," Pansy handed him her own cup full of punch. "Drink it!" Bloody hell, that is a really short dress, Pans.

"Um… Sure," Ron said, and then he downed the cup. Ugh… I don't like this punch. It's too citrusy. "Daphne, can I talk to you for a bit? It's important."

"Oh, okay," Daphne handed her cup to Millie. "I'll be right back, Millie."

Ron followed Daphne towards the Training Room, making sure to get a good look at Malfoy and Blaise along the way. They both seemed to be at ease, no doubt enjoying their victory. Malfoy's doing much better now. I think hearing back from Narcissa really helped him. I made the right choice.

"What took you so long?" Daphne smiled properly now that they were alone.

"I met this old couple, and they offered to make me food," Ron replied.

"What?" Daphne blinked.

"Yeah… It was weird, but I couldn't say no to them," Ron said. "Anyway, I got the cake and the present."

"Ohhh, what did you get him?" Daphne asked. "Show me."

Ron reached into his right pocket, and he pulled out a small brown box. Daphne moved over to his side, and Ron opened it in front of her.

"It's a 'Double Half Hunter' pocket watch," Ron remembered. "You can see the gears and everything."

"It's beautiful," Daphne smiled at the golden watch. "Why a pocket watch, though?"

"Oh, it's because Blaise is from an Italian Family," Ron replied. "They have a tradition where the father gives his son a pocket watch when the son starts becoming a man."

"That's a really thoughtful gift, Ron," Daphne said.

"I know, right?" Ron grinned. "Here, look at this inscription."

Ron closed the golden watch, showing Daphne the inscription on the cover.

"Fratello?" Daphne read. "It's Italian, right?"

"It means 'Brother' according to Thomas," Ron replied.

"Who's Thomas?"

"The shopkeeper who sold me this piece," Ron clarified. "He did the inscription for me."

"I think Blaise will love this," Daphne hummed, she was swaying just enough for Ron to notice. "How much did it cost? I'll pay my half tomorrow."

"Forty Galleons," Ron replied, his eyes scanning her knee-length purple dress. She's not dressed half as provocatively as Pansy. Good. I don't want the other blokes eyeballing her.

"So I owe you twenty," Daphne made a mental note, and then, she gave him a knowing smile. "Do you like my dress, Ron? It's nothing fancy, but I think I look amazing!"

"You do," Ron smiled goofily. I'm so lucky!

"Here," Daphne laughed as she did a twirl, showing him her dress from every angle. "So… Do you want to fool around in here?" Huh?

"Daph…" Ron shot a look towards the exit. "That's a little sudden, isn't it? What if someone comes in here?"

"That's their problem," Daphne took a step forward, her hands fiddling with his suit. "You look so handsome in this suit!"

Ron took a whiff, and his questions were answered.

"You're drunk," Ron said, and Daphne smiled widely.

"Guilty!" Daphne pretended to surrender. What about our date? Oh, wait… She doesn't know about that yet.

"Um… Would it be fine if I asked you to stop drinking for the rest of the night?" Ron asked, and Daphne cocked her head.

"Why?" Daphne asked.

"I've arranged a date for us-"

"Really?!" Daphne asked excitedly, nearing rupturing Ron's eardrums. "We're going on a date tonight?!"

"I've asked Marty to arrange something for us in the Astronomy Tower," Ron smiled due to her excitement. Is she really that excited to go on a date with me? "It'll be during dinner, and since there are no classes tonight, we won't be disturbed."

"A romantic dinner at the Astronomy Tower," Daphne smiled giddily. "What's brought this on, Ron?"

"I don't know," Ron shrugged. "I guess I just want to thank you."

"Thank me?" Daphne asked.

"Things have been really rough lately, but you stuck by me throughout the whole thing," Ron replied a little awkwardly. Don't be afraid of saying sappy things every once in a while, Ron. This is Daphne, and you know that she'll never tell anyone about this. "I couldn't have gotten through it all without you, is what I'm trying to say…" Terrible landing.

Daphne's excitement turned to genuine warmth, and she just smiled at him in an equally goofy manner. I said the right thing for sure! Nice landing, Ron.

"You're the sweetest," Daphne walked up and hugged him, her head slumping against his chest. "And you're giving me far too much credit."

"No, I'm not," Ron said. "You're the best, and nothing can convince me otherwise." Ron then put his arms around her, his hands rubbing circles on her back. "I'll come pick you up at eight?"

"What?" Daphne looked up at him. "You're leaving?"

"I'll just be in my room," Ron replied. "I need to practice some Conjuration-"

"Noooo…" Daphne whined and pouted. "Please join the party, Ron… It's just one night." It's loud in there, and I'm a little too tired for that much noise.

"I'm not really in the mood, Daph-" Ron started.

"But you have to protect us girls," Daphne said hastily. Protect the girls?

"Protect you from what?" Ron asked slowly. "Alcohol?"

"No, Ron, you have to protect us from the other boys," Daphne replied like it was the most obvious thing in the World.

"Is someone giving you girls trouble?" Ron's brow furrowed. "What's his fucking name? Tell me, and I'll break his fucking legs." Is some cunt harassing them? Why?

"Well, no one's giving us any trouble yet, but they might," Daphne said. What?

"Okay… I'm confused," Ron sighed out. "Tell me everything."

"Okay, but you can't repeat this to anyone," Daphne said. "Promise?"

"I promise," Ron replied, and Daphne put her pinky in his face.

"Swear it," Daphne wiggled her pinky. That's cute.

"I swear," Ron tangled his pinky with hers, an amused smile on his face.

"So lately, Pansy's been thinking of getting a boyfriend," Daphne started. "But so far, she's had no luck whatsoever."

"I find that hard to believe," Ron said.

"I know, right?!" Daphne giggled. "She's definitely got the looks, but for some reason, most boys are afraid to approach her."

Daphne then stared right into Ron's eyes, but he didn't get the message.

"Why would people be scared of approaching her?" Ron asked. "She doesn't bully anyone anymore, and she even gets along with the Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws."

"There's this red-haired monster who intimidates everyone around him, and Pansy's really close with this monster," Daphne hinted playfully.

"Oh…" Ron muttered. "Does… Does she blame me?" I hope not.

"Ron, you could kill someone, and Pansy would help you hide the body," Daphne chuckled. "Anyway, she's come up with a scheme to get noticed by more boys-"

"Her dress…" Ron realized.

"Now he's catching on," Daphne poked his side. "She and Tracey are both wearing really short dresses in order to let the older boys know that they're looking for some romance. Isn't that great?!"

"Tracey is joining Pansy's scheme?" Ron asked. "What about Theo? I thought he and Tracey were getting along really well lately." I didn't even notice Tracey's dress… Wait, why am I disappointed?

"If Theo likes her, then he should do something about it," Daphne replied. "Tracey shouldn't be forced to wait while Theo tries to figure out what he wants. She's her own person."

"Still… It could make things awkward…" Ron said, he felt rather gutted on his friend's behalf.

"Things between them are already too complicated," Daphne said. "If it weren't for Theo's father, I'm sure that he'd be dating Tracey already… I know for a fact that she'd accept if he asked her tonight-"

"Really?" Ron asked.

"Ron, don't tell him," Daphne warned quickly. "You promised me. This isn't our business, and we shouldn't stick our noses in it. Meddling could hurt our friends."

"I wasn't going to say anything," Ron lied. I was totally going to give Theo a heads-up. Oh, well… Daphne's right. This isn't my business. "So you're telling me that Pansy and Tracey are dressed skimpily because they want the older boys to notice them?" That's really… stupid.

"They're not dressed that 'skimpily'," Daphne said, and Ron just stared at her. "Okay, maybe Pansy took things too far…"

"I don't think that this is a smart idea, Daph," Ron admitted.

"Why not?"

"Because dressing like that won't get the right sort of attention," Ron replied. "Plus, aren't they a bit too young to dress like that? I could see the outline of Pansy's bra, Daph…"

"Oh, they've both flowered," Daphne assured him, and Ron cringed visibly. "They're women now, Ron."

"First of all… Ew!" Ron pulled a face, making Daphne giggle. "Secondly, there are better ways to go about this. Why don't they just talk to some lads around Hogwarts? In full clothing, that is."

"Don't ask me," Daphne replied. "I opted to sit this scheme out as soon as I heard it."

"Was it because you're already dating me?" Ron asked. Wow… That was a really needy question.

"Of course," she didn't seem to mind his neediness. If anything, she looks even happier than before. "I don't want some random trying to chat me up while I wait for you to come back from your errands."

"Thanks," Ron felt rather relieved to hear that, while Daphne gave him pleasant smile.

"So? Are you joining the party?" Daphne asked. "You never know what might happen, Ron… What if some fourth year puts his hands on Pansy? Or Tracey?" Then he will lose that hand, I assure you.

"I'll join the party," Ron agreed, and Daphne beamed at him. Why not, eh? It's not like I have an afterlife to look forward to. I only have a few years before eternal damnation…

"Yay! Let's go!" Daphne took him by the hand, and then she all but dragged him back to their friends. "The others will be so glad that you're joining us!"

The music was deafeningly loud now, and even Daphne seemed to be bothered by it. As for Ron, he could feel his brain trembling within his skull. Fuck me… Are they planning to get caught, or something? Turn that racket down a little. By the time they reached the others, Ron was slightly regretting his choice to socialize. I really should go work on my Conjuration skills. I want to be ready for when Marty teaches me those Spells of his.

"Ron is joining us tonight!" Daphne announced to the others.

"YES!" Tracey clapped her hands excitedly, while the others smiled widely or gave him nods.

"I'll get him something to drink!" Millie said excitedly. "I'll be right back! Don't let him go anywhere!" Why are they so excited all of a sudden? I spend every waking moment with them.

Millie quickly left for the drinks table, while Pansy and Tracey pulled Ron into an empty seat. Woah… Don't be so rough, please. Ron tried not to stare at Tracey and Pansy, but he failed miserably. Merlin… I can see all of Tracey's legs. Don't stare, Ron. It will definitely upset them.

"Here! Finish this!" Pansy hovered in front of him with a wide smile. "You've got loads of catching up to do!"

"How was your day, Ron?!" Tracey sat down to his right, her free arm tangling up with his.

Ron took Pansy's cup, his eyes darting towards Daphne. She gestured him to drink up, which helped Ron loosen up a little. I have to make sure that I don't get drunk. I want this date to work out. He gulped the citrusy punch down, making sure not to pull a face. So tangy… I prefer the sweet stuff. I wonder if there's juice-

"Here, drink this next!" Tracey offered him her cup.

"Um… Aren't you drinking from that?" Ron couldn't help but ask.

"I'll just get another!" Tracey beamed, and Ron saw that the lads were giving him dull looks. Jealous? "You drank Pansy's, Ron! Are you trying to hurt my feelings?!"

"What? No! Never!" Ron replied quickly, and then he took the cup and downed it in one go. Merlin's beard… That burns.

"You're so cute," Tracey giggled as she rested her head on his shoulder. "And you smell so nice. We were worried that you wouldn't come down for this." Really?

Ron didn't miss the death grip Tracey had on his arm, nor did he miss the fact that Pansy and Daphne were blocking his path. The girls were clearly planning to make sure that Ron didn't slink away, and judging by the tray full of drinks that Millie rushed over, they planned to make sure that he had a good time.

Sunday 17th January, 1994 (Astronomy Tower – Dinnertime)

Marty had truly outdone himself.

The top of the Astronomy Tower had been redecorated completely; it looked more like a restaurant than a tower of study. Marty had left scented candles everywhere, he had cleaned everything spotless, and he had delivered a covered table with fine kitchenware. Personally, Ron thought that it was a bit too much, but Daphne seemed to love it. She even loved the tacky heart shaped balloons that littered the ceiling.

They hadn't spoken about anything of importance during dinner, and Ron figured that Daphne didn't want anything to dampen the date. He felt the exact same way, and so, he was careful to avoid any sensitive subjects. They were both still a little tipsy from the party, which helped keep the conversation going without fail, not that they needed that.

"So I have to ask…" Daphne started. "What's going on between you and Ginevra?"

Ron stopped mid-drink; he needed to tell her about Ginny joining the morning runs. If Daphne has my back, then the other girls will play nice. I don't want Tracey going off on Ginny again.

"We're just trying to sort out our dynamic," Ron replied. "It's a little awkward, I won't lie…"

"Why is it awkward?" Daphne asked. "My sister and I fight all the time, but we always make up."

"Well, Ginny and I don't usually fight," Ron explained. "Sure, she used to get mad at me all the time, but that's just how she is. She's quick to anger, but unlike me, she calms right back down again."

"Only this time, she didn't calm down," Daphne nodded to herself. "Do you want to go back to being how you two were?"

"Of course," Ron replied. What a weird question… "Wait, do you want me to get back to being normal with her?" Ron asked.

"I don't really have a say in the matter," Daphne avoided the question.

"C'mon, Daph," Ron said. "Why'd you bring this up?"

Daphne smiled her usual smile, but Ron wasn't so easily distracted.

"I just think that you have a chance to reshape your relationship with Ginevra," Daphne finally broke her silence.

"Reshape?" Ron asked.

"I know that you two were really close as children, but from what you've told me, she didn't seem to respect you all that much," Daphne clarified. "Instead of going back to granting her every whim, you could make sure that Ginny shows you the respect you deserve. You're her elder, and you've been there for her unlike anyone else. It's only fair that she respects you going forward, Ron."

"So I should choose between respect, or love?" Ron asked.

"Love and respect aren't exclusive," Daphne replied. "You can have both in your new relationship with Ginevra." Maybe I should hear out what she has to say?

"Not in my experience," Ron sighed out. "What would you do in my shoes?"

"I would start by showing Ginevra the cold shoulder for a little longer," Daphne started. Hold on, I already invited her to the morning runs.

"I invited Ginny to come running with us tomorrow morning," Ron blurted out.

"Pardon?"

"I invited Ginny to come running with us," Ron repeated. "I bought her brand new running gear today, and she believes that you've all agreed to this."

"Oh… Ron…" Daphne gave him pitiful look. "Please tell me that you're pulling my leg."

"She's miserable right now, and I need to do something," Ron tried to explain himself. "I'm not falling back into old habits, I promise. It's just that she doesn't have anyone there for her, and if I don't do something, she'll start getting worse."

"You can't just let her get away with everything," Daphne said. "If you do, then you'll be right back here again in a couple of years."

"I can't just rescind her invitation," Ron said.

"Yes, that would just hurt her," Daphne agreed, though she sounded quite reluctant. "Wait… You told her that we all agreed? You lied to her?"

"It wasn't a lie, exactly," Ron replied. "I planned to convince you all in the morning."

"So right before we met up with her?" Daphne gave him a deadpan look. "Smooth, Ron…"

"She's my little sister," Ron said with a hint of vulnerability. I'm not changing my decision. "I have to help her."

Daphne studied his face, and then, she gave him a sorry smile.

"I'll back you up, but you have to promise me that you won't let her walk all over you," Daphne said. "I'm serious, Ron."

"I promise," Ron agreed. "Thank you, Daph."

Marty suddenly cracked into the room; he was holding a tray with two glass bowls of Honey Macadamia.

"Dessert is served," Marty bowed, while the bowls floated into place.

"Is that Honey Macadamia from Fortescue's?" Daphne asked excitedly.

"Master picked it out himself," Marty replied.

"You still remember that it's my favorite?" Daphne sounded genuinely touched.

"Of course," Ron replied. "I remember everything that we talk about." My memory is really strong.

"That's really sweet, Ron," Daphne felt a little flushed. It is?

"I'm getting better at this dating thing, eh?" Ron grinned.

"And he ruined it…"

Thirty Minutes Later

"I have something for you," Ron whispered, and Daphne looked up at him from his lap.

They were still tipsy from the party, and now that they had eaten large meals, they were both struggling to stay awake. But instead of leaving for their dorms, they had set up a blanket in order to stare up at the stars.

"You still have something left up your sleeve?" Daphne laughed lightly. "Ron, you're raising the bar too high for me." I know, right? This has been the perfect date so far. I guess the Universe owed me a break.

"Move here," Ron said as he readjusted her a little, and then he reached into his left pocket and pulled out the elegant looking box.

"This is from Martin's," Daphne's eyes lit up. "I could recognize that box anywhere!"

"Here," Ron smiled widely as he opened the box, presenting the diamond studded choker to Daphne.

Daphne made some odd sort of squeal, one that elicited a laugh out of Ron. What was that sound?!

"Is that really the diamond studded choker?!" Daphne looked to Ron.

"You've seen it before?" Ron asked.

"I have Martin's Owl-Post brochure," Daphne replied. "I've had my eye on this piece for almost two weeks!" I'm guessing that's a long time in the fashion world.

"Martin actually suggested it," Ron said. Why am I being humble here? Damn, I should've told her that it was all my idea.

"I figured as much," Daphne giggled. "That still doesn't change how much I love this!" Oh.

"Do you want to try it on?" Ron asked. "You're not wearing a necklace right now, so it should be fine."

"I'd love that," Daphne shifted in her spot, her back now facing Ron. "Can you put it on?" I don't know how to put on necklaces… Why is she making me do it?

"Like in those cliché romance novels?" Ron asked, he felt slightly embarrassed by that.

"Please?" Daphne shot him a quick pout. "This is important to us girls."

"Okay," Ron relented, and Daphne quickly began pulling her hair up. She's a bit weird, I can't deny that.

Ron took the choker out of the box, and then he carefully wrapped it around Daphne's neck. And there's the clasp. Go in, you little fucker. Ron fidgeted a little more, and when he finally got it, he let out a relieved breath. The embarrassment continues.

"How do I look?" Daphne turned to face him with her best smile.

"Like you're way out of my league," Ron replied, and Daphne snorted. "Oink, oink to you as well, Ma'am."

"Stop it," Daphne laughed. "I want a serious answer, Ron."

"That was a serious answer," Ron smirked. "You look way out of my league. Even more so than usual, if you can believe it."

"Honestly, even after this date, youstill think that I'm out of your league?" Daphne asked before she kissed his nose.

"I'm really glad that you enjoyed it," Ron said, deciding to thank her again. "Thank you for being the best friend that anyone could ask for, Daph. I really don't know where I'd be without you. If I were to guess, I'd say that I'd have been really miserable and lonely." That's hard to admit, but I want her to know how I feel.

"Um… Thanks…" Daphne swallowed thickly, suddenly looking a bit jarred. "You um… You really feel that way?"

"I do," Ron promised.

"Wow…" Daphne looked lost for words.

"You okay?" Ron asked, a hint of worry in his voice.

"I'm being… emotional…" Daphne said, she was clearly trying to keep some of her composure. I should give her an out.

"I'm that sweet, am I?" Ron grinned, trying to lighten the mood.

"Shut up," Daphne poked him, a wide smile gracing her face. "Don't ruin your good deeds with arrogance, Ron. That's my thing."

"Oh, is it?" Ron laughed.

"Yes, it is," Daphne leaned back against his chest. "Now, tell me how I look, or I won't get off."

"You look really beautiful," Ron told her as he wrapped his arms around her stomach. Now she can never leave.

"That's it?" Daphne hummed. "You're not going to compare me to the stars?"

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

"Actually, I've been reading Pansy's erotica collection," Daphne admitted, making Ron freeze in his spot. "I thought I'd see what the fuss was about, and now, I can't put them down. Some of them are really entertaining." She just openly admitted to such a thing?

"Um… I don't know what to say," Ron muttered.

"What? You've never looked into those 'Witch Seeker' magazines?" Daphne asked. Theo has a couple of copies under his bed. We've all had a look. Multiple times.

"Touché," Ron said, a hint of shame on his face.

"Don't worry about it, Ron," Daphne kissed his chin. "It's just a part of growing up, I think. We don't have to make it weird."

"You're right," Ron seized the opportunity to absolve himself. "Just a part of growing up."

"When I think about it, Pansy's erotica collection has nothing on this," Daphne said as she relaxed completely. "This really has been the best night ever, Ron."

"You definitely deserve it," Ron rested his chin on her head.

"And so do you," Daphne added quickly. "You're also the best friend that anyone could ask for, Ron, and don't you ever forget it."

Ginny Weasley's POV

Monday 18th January, 1994 (Courtyard – Early Morning)

Ginny now knew why Ron had bought her such unflattering, thick clothes. He knew that it would be freezing! Merlin, I can't feel the tips of my fingers! Ginny shivered in her spot, Ron and his friends still hadn't shown up. Seriously? Where are they? I'll be icicle by the time they show up.

Just as she finished her thought, Ron and his friends stepped out into the Courtyard. Thank Merlin! Ginny began walking over to them, her eyes quickly scanning the Slytherins. Nott, Zabini, Malfoy, Bulstrode, Greengrass, and Davis. Parkinson doesn't join them?

"Did you wait long?" Ron asked. "I'm sorry, Ginny, but we all had a late night."

"I only just got here," Ginny lied on instinct. "Don't worry about it."

"Oh, good," Ron sounded a bit relieved. "Well… Let's go, then. The sooner we start running, the better."

Ron's friends began heading for the wooden bridge, and Ginny took the chance the gauge their moods. None of them look pleased, but none of them look bothered either. They're definitely not thrilled about this. I hope Ron didn't have to fight with them because of me.

"You coming?" Ron nudged her, and Ginny quickly began walking with him. "You're not wearing gloves?"

"I forgot mine at home," Ginny rubbed her hands together. "Mum still hasn't gotten around to owling them to me."

"Here," Ron began taking off his gloves.

"Ron, you don't have to-"

"Your hands are almost blue," Ron said, and then he handed her his gloves.

She caught a quick glance at the scar on his right hand, and it caused her to tense up a little. I nearly forgot about that. Is he sure about this?

"What about your hand?" Ginny whispered.

"Oh… Um… Everyone here has already seen it," Ron said a little awkwardly. "It's fine. Just get your hands warm before your fingers fall off, yeah?"

Ginny didn't feel right about taking his gloves, but her fingers were starting to hurt from the cold. The moment her fingers were tucked away, she felt an immense sense of relief. Wow… Does he have the Warming Charm cast on these?

"They're nice, right?" Ron asked, and Ginny nodded.

"Thanks, Ron," Ginny replied sheepishly. "I'll send mum another owl about my gloves after this. I promise."

"If you want, I can buy you a pair like mine," Ron offered. "They're stylish enough, and you can wear them everywhere." That's a really tempting offer.

"You've already spent enough on me," Ginny refused. "I already have gloves that work, so buying new ones isn't smart."

"All right," Ron didn't try to persuade her. "Wait… You didn't bring your wand with you?"

"Oh, no, I didn't," Ginny replied. "I sort of forgot about it… I'm not used to waking up so early, you know?"

"You shouldn't forget your wand," Ron said, he almost sounded disappointed. "You need to have it on your person at all times."

"Okay…" Ginny looked ahead. What suddenly got into him?

"I'm not trying to scold you," Ron said calmly. "Just giving you some handy advice." It sounded like a scolding to me.

"I won't forget it again," Ginny didn't plan on making a scene. Just go with it, Ginny. This is supposed to help you learn more about Ron and his friends.

Forty Minutes Later

She had always been the athletic type; so keeping up with Ron's friends wasn't all that difficult. Greengrass and Davis were clearly newcomers, while Nott and Zabini had been doing this for a long time. Ginny had matched her pace with Malfoy and Bulstrode, both of whom genuinely surprised her by doing ten laps.

"Here," Bulstrode handed Ginny her wand; they were finally punching in the clock.

"Why are you giving me your wand?" Ginny blurted out.

"Use Aguamenti to have a drink," Bulstrode instructed. Oh.

"Thanks," Ginny couldn't refuse the offer. "Aguamenti."

The wand didn't really resist her for some reason, and before long, water was shooting out of the tip of Bulstrode's wand. I put too much power into it!

"Easy with that," Bulstrode said. "Relax your grip a little, and take in a deep breath."

Ginny did as she was told, and slowly, the pressure of the water weakened considerably.

"Sorry," Ginny muttered awkwardly.

"It's all right," Bulstrode didn't seem too bothered.

Ginny didn't waste another second before drinking her fill; running eight laps had definitely parched her. Once she was done, she cancelled the Spell and handed Bulstrode her wand back.

"Thanks," Ginny repeated.

"Have you gone running with Ron before?" Bulstrode asked, taking Ginny a little by surprise. She's not leaving? She's actually trying to make conversation with me?

"Not really," Ginny replied. "We did used to run around with each other when we were little, but then Ron started taking running too seriously. Not that there's anything wrong with that…" she finished lamely.

"No, I get it," Bulstrode looked towards Ron, who was still running his laps. He overtook everyone twice… How many laps is he on? "Your brother definitely loves pushing himself to his limits, and so do you from the looks of it." Huh?

"What makes you say that?" Ginny asked.

"Eight laps on your first run is pretty outstanding," Bulstrode replied, though she sounded a little indifferent. "You looked ready to fall over in your last lap, but you still finished it."

"You did pretty good yourself," Ginny moved the conversation away from herself. "I had no idea that you could run so much. It was really impressive."

"You just get used to it," Bulstrode replied. Is she being humble? Or is she being sarcastic? I can't tell. "Will you be coming tomorrow?"

"Um… I don't know," Ginny tensed a bit. "I haven't really thought about that yet…"

"You should," Bulstrode whispered, her eyes darting towards the other Slytherins. "It would mean a lot to Ron if you did." Oh… She's doing this for Ron.

"Okay…" Ginny agreed. If it helps me spend more time with him, then I don't care about her reasoning.

"Good," Bulstrode turned to leave. "Oh, and if you try to take advantage of him, you'll have to deal with us this time. You have a habit of making him feel wretched, and so we'll be watching you very carefully. You've been warned."

Ginny didn't say anything to that, mostly because she didn't see the point in defending her past behavior. She knew that whatever reasoning she gave them, they would still put Ron first. They're just looking out for him, and they're right to do so…

Twenty Minutes Later

She had been lingering behind Ron's friends; carefully observing them interact with each other. They're all so different, but they seem to click together perfectly. Even Malfoy fits in somehow. Ginny looked towards Davis, who was laughing and telling some joke to the rest. She doesn't strike me as a mean person, which is what Hermione and I thought of her. If anything, she seems to be the most normal one in this group-

"Do you feel refreshed?" Ron asked as he caught up to her. He's finally done with his laps?

"Refreshed?" Ginny asked. "Ron, my thighs are killing me, and we're walking uphill… This is hell on Earth."

"It gets easier," Ron chuckled. He's in a good mood now. "And hey, you did better than Daphne and Tracey on your first go. That's pretty amazing if you ask me."

"Don't say that," Ginny whispered. "What if they hear you?"

"Oh, it's their first time as well," Ron clarified. "Trust me, they won't be too bothered.

"Really?" Ginny asked, her eyes darting towards Greengrass. She's wearing some sort of Muggle-styled running gear. "Davis and Greengrass have never joined you before today?"

"Now, I just need to convince Pansy," Ron smirked as he nudged her side. He wants them all to go running with him?

"You're a bit weird, Ron," Ginny said. "No offence."

"Everyone's weird," Ron shrugged without a care. "Anyway… I wanted to ask you something."

"What is it?" Ginny asked.

"I saw Millie talking to you before," Ron started. "What was that about? Did she say something to you?"

"She offered me her wand so I could have a drink," Ginny replied. "That's all."

"Really?" Ron asked; he seemed pleased.

"Yeah," Ginny decided to keep the warning to herself. "It was really thoughtful of her."

"Millie's a really nice person," Ron said. "She has a cat named Misty-"

"She has a cat?" Ginny asked quickly. I've always wanted a cat!

"If you ask her, she might introduce you to Misty," Ron smiled at her excitement. Oh, I don't know about that.

"I should get to know her first," Ginny said as she regained some of her composure.

"Of course," Ron said. "Are you coming tomorrow?"

"Yes, I am," Ginny replied, and Ron's smile widened.

It was enough to put a smile on Ginny's face as well.

"I expect to see nine laps tomorrow," Ron suddenly grinned.

"Piss off," Ginny snorted. "Nine laps, he says."

Ronald Weasley's POV

Monday 18th January, 1994 (Madam Pomfrey's Office – After Classes)

"So my recent thoughts… They could be caused by my new brain damage?" Ron asked again.

"If what you've told me is true, then yes," Madam Pomfrey replied. "Hormonal imbalances can cause a major shift in one's perspective. How long have you been feeling this way?"

"Not long," Ron replied. "It's a bit weird, though… Right now, I don't feel any different from normal. It just happens randomly. I see something that catches my eye, and I start feeling weird." Ron then cleared his throat. "Is there some cure for this?"

"I'm sorry, Ron, there's no cure," Madam Pomfrey replied. Figures. "But we can teach you to live with this symptom. It doesn't have to define you."

"That's not what I'm worried about," Ron said. "I'm more worried about making my friends uncomfortable."

"Then you should talk to them before there's a misunderstanding," Madam Pomfrey advised.

"Great…" Ron sighed out. I'll save this fucked up conversation until after Hogsmeade Weekend. "What's the time, Madam Pomfrey?"

"Nearly half past five," Madam Pomfrey looked to the clock. Shit! I'm going to be late.

"Um… Could we cut this session a little short, please?" Ron asked. "It's Blaise's birthday today, and we're all throwing him a 'surprise' birthday party."

"Very well," Madam Pomfrey closed her notes. "Make sure that you enjoy yourself."

"I will," Ron waved his goodbye, and then he left the Office. I need to get up to the seventh floor immediately.

Ron cast the Disillusionment Charm on himself, and then he began sprinting towards the Moving Staircase. He definitely spooked a few people along the way, but no one really caught him. It wasn't long before he was standing in front of the Sanctuary's entrance, and without hesitation, Ron barged into the room.

"Ron?" Daphne called from the chairs. "You made it!"

"Where's Blaise?" Ron looked around. Woah… There's a lot of food on that table. I probably shouldn't touch that until Blaise is here, though.

"Theo's gone to get him," Tracey replied. "They should be here any second now."

"We've got everything ready," Millie said as Ron walked over to Daphne. "Right, Pansy?"

"Right…" Pansy said, she still looked a bit out of it from last night. Is she tired? Or is she upset about something? I can't tell.

"Do you have the watch?" Daphne whispered, her arm already tangled with his.

"Yeah, I've got it," Ron patted his robe pocket.

"I've transferred the money," Daphne kissed his cheek. "Blaise will love this gift, Ron, I'm sure of it." Merlin, I hope you're right. Otherwise, he may never talk to me again.

Blaise Zabini's POV

Monday 18th January, 1994 (The Sanctuary – Evening)

The last few weeks had been absolutely soul crushing for Blaise. He had spent his Break getting to know his new stepfather, and unfortunately, Blaise had come to enjoy the mild-mannered wizard's company, which had only served to make Blaise extremely uncomfortable. Despite his mother's many relationships, Blaise had never once taken a liking to her any of her would-be suitors. Most of them had been like her, cruel and self-absorbed, but Lord Michelangelo De Luca was different.

Blaise's new stepfather had noticed Blaise's cold demeanor rather quickly, but instead of writing Blaise off, the old wizard had started 'running into' Blaise at every opportunity. At first, it was polite conversation whenever Blaise left his room. Then, it had been a quick trip to Lord De Luca's favorite café. With one small step at a time, Lord De Luca had earned a hint of Blaise's respect. Blaise, of course, was still suspicious of the old wizard, but that was mostly because Blaise didn't trust his own mother. After all, no man in his right mind would ever approach Clementine Zabini.

The mere thought of his mother was enough to churn Blaise's stomach… He was terrified of her, now more than ever. Lord De Luca wasn't like her other suitors, and Blaise knew with absolute certainty that his mother was quickly getting bored of her latest husband. Several times during his Break, Blaise had caught his mother rolling her eyes whenever Lord De Luca wasn't watching. It was like a big game to her… She'd openly tell Blaise about how bored she was, and sometimes, she even tried to get a laugh out of him by mocking Lord De Luca behind his back.

But Blaise never laughed… If anything, he found it hard to breathe whenever his mother referred to Lord De Luca as a 'walking corpse'. It was all just a fucking game to her, and that terrified Blaise more than anything else. She was hunting for her next victim, and this time, Blaise happened to like the target.

A shudder passed through him, and Blaise stared intently into his cup. At least the punch is delicious. Maybe if I drink enough of it, I'll stop thinking about my wretched mother for a minute. Blaise shot a quick look towards Pansy, who had secured a lot of last night's punch just because Blaise happened to like it. As usual, his friends had gone overboard with everything. Personally, Blaise would have preferred a quiet dinner for his birthday, but he also understood that his friends weren't a quiet lot behind closed doors.

Tracey's Walkman was blasting Muggle music throughout the Sanctuary, while Tracey herself was dancing with Theo near the sandpit. Daphne, Millie, and Pansy were currently doting on Marty, who had come around just to wish Blaise a 'Happy Birthday'. Poor bugger… They'll feed him until he bursts. Blaise's eyes moved towards Ron and Malfoy, both of whom were having a conversation near Ron's favorite spot. Once again, Blaise felt jealousy run through his blood. He's always talking to Malfoy… Why won't Ron just get rid of him already? We don't need him around anymore.

Blaise downed his cup, and it made his head fill up with that pleasant 'buzzing' feeling. It was just enough to make him forget about his mother, but try as he might, he couldn't stop staring at Ron. Their fight weighed heavily on Blaise's conscious, and by now, Blaise had realized that Ron wasn't trying to fight. Which just makes me feel worse… Maybe he could approach Ron tonight? He had planned to do it yesterday with the help of some liquid courage, but Ron and Daphne had left so suddenly for their date that Blaise hadn't gotten a chance.

"Why are you staring at Ron like that?" came Tracey's voice, and Blaise turned around to see her pouring herself a drink.

"You're sweating," Blaise pointed out.

"I know, right?" she laughed. "Theo's completely knackered as well."

Blaise shot a quick look at Theo, and he saw the weedy boy pretending to be a star on the sandpit. He's definitely playing with fire-

"So? Why were you staring at Ron?" Tracey asked.

"I wasn't staring at anyone," Blaise lied calmly.

"No, I'm pretty sure you were," Tracey smiled playfully, her cup close to her lips. "What's going on between you two? We've all noticed that you don't talk to each other as often."

"Nothing's going on," Blaise lied again.

"Are you jealous that he's spending a lot of time with Draco?" Tracey went on.

"Draco?" Blaise cocked an eyebrow. Why is she so intent on being friends with that leech?

"And he bites," Tracey giggled. "You've got nothing to be jealous of, Blaise. Ron is just a softie who can't help himself. Draco's been through a lot, and Ron feels the need to show his support."

"Malfoy must need a lot of support, then," Blaise muttered under his breath.

"You know, you're not as handsome when you're jealous," Tracey grinned, and Blaise rolled his eyes. There's no convincing her, is there? "I reckon you should just talk to Ron. I can call him over-"

"Don't," Blaise warned, and Tracey cocked an eyebrow. Keep your tone in check, Blaise. She's not like the others. "Tracey… Don't meddle this time. Please?"

"Someone needs to," Tracey said, and then, she started smiling again. "Friends fight, Blaise… I don't know what happened between you two, but someone has to take the first step in moving forward." Tracey then drew in a deep breath. "Ron's juggling a lot right now, so could you just take the first step? Please? None of us like seeing this weird tension between you two. You're meant to be best friends."

Blaise shot a look back at Ron, and then he let out a tired huff.

"I need another drink-" Blaise started.

"Nope," Tracey cut in. "Theo asked me to keep you away from the drinks. You've had plenty, Blaise." Theo would never do that.

"It's my birthday," Blaise frowned at her.

"Sober up a little, and I'll pour you a cup myself," Tracey kept smiling. "Now, go and talk to Ron. Fix your relationship." Relationship?

Blaise tossed his empty cup away, gave Tracey a semi-annoyed look, and then he began heading towards Ron. Blaise figured that riling him up a little was Tracey's idea of giving him some courage, but right now, he didn't want to give her any credit. Why are the girls in our group so meddlesome? It's annoying as-

"Blaise?" Ron's voice pulled him out of his thoughts.

"Can I please talk to you?" Blaise asked, ignoring the fact that he had nearly run into Ron. Why did I ask that so formally?

"Of course," Ron smiled a little, which only made Blaise feel worse. Why is he so polite and emotional lately? This wouldn't be so hard if he was cold and calculating again.

"I'll go try that cake," Malfoy said to Ron, and then he left without making a sound.

"Are you enjoying the party?" Ron asked once Malfoy was out of earshot.

"I am," Blaise replied. Just don't sound awkward, Blaise. Keep your tone even and polite. "Can we go outside for this? I don't want anyone to overhear us."

"Oh… Sure," Ron agreed. "Lead the way, mate."

Five Minutes Later

"I reckon we should be able to talk now," Ron joked; Blaise had led them to an abandoned classroom on the seventh floor. I didn't know when to stop, so I just kept going. Well, there's no running away now.

"Can you Silence that door?" Blaise asked.

"Blaise… Mate… C'mon," Ron looked a bit baffled. "Are you taking the piss?" I've missed that vulgarity. I should just say it, and get it over with.

"I was wrong to call you a beggar," Blaise said suddenly, but Ron didn't seem surprised. "It was an extremely stupid thing to say, and I can see how it might have hurt your feelings. I'm sorry if I offended you." That was a good apology.

"That was a terrible apology," Ron chuckled. Huh? "But I'll accept it anyway."

"How was that terrible?" Blaise couldn't help but ask.

"You said 'it might have hurt your feelings'… I assure you, Blaise, it definitely did," Ron explained with a hint of amusement. "Oh, and you didn't apologize for calling my home a pigsty. That one definitely left a bad taste in my mouth."

"Now, you're taking the piss," Blaise said bluntly. "You're not upset?" I know you, Ron. You take the smallest things to heart. How could you not be upset?

"I was upset, but then I got over it," Ron shrugged as he walked over. "I was being a little too pushy with my ideals. I know that now." Oh… "I'm sorry for not reading your mood, Blaise. I didn't mean to make you feel cornered." Fuck, his apology was better than mine.

"It's fine," Blaise said aloofly. "You were worried about me."

"I still am," Ron leaned against a desk.

"But you're not going to pressure me anymore?" Blaise asked.

"No," Ron replied. "I don't have the right to meddle in your affairs without your consent." Ugh… I miss the colder Ron. He's become gentler ever since his brain damage got worse. "What is it? You're just staring at me."

"You've changed a little," Blaise replied. "Why?"

"Don't have any time left to fight on everything," Ron replied casually. "And lately, I've been trying to enjoy myself a bit more. It's given me patience."

"Right…" Blaise said slowly. "Is that why you spend so much time with Malfoy? You want to practice patience?"

"Tracey and I are the only ones who talk to him," Ron replied. "If you lot would just let go of the past, then I'd spend less time with Malfoy."

"Have you forgotten how he got into this group?" Blaise asked. He dragged me down the river with him.

"Didn't the rest of you approach me because you wanted to take advantage of me?" Ron asked with a half-smile. Damn, he's got a point. "Malfoy's changing, Blaise, I promise. He hasn't insulted me once all week!"

"That's your standard for success?" Blaise asked.

"I'm desperate like that," Ron smirked, and Blaise held back any signs of enjoyment. It does feel great to talk to him again.

They were both silent for a few moments, and Blaise knew why. We're both thinking about my mother, but neither of us is broaching the subject. He thought about Tracey's words, he knew that she was right about Ron being a bit overwhelmed lately. Just take the first step, huh?

"I still don't know what to do about my mother," Blaise broke the silence. "Can you give me some advice?"

"Are you sure?" Ron asked, something glinting behind his eyes.

"I'm sure," Blaise replied. "Let's not beat around the bush as well… We both know what my mother is capable of, and we both know that Lord De Luca's life is in danger." I'm the heir of a serial killer… She probably killed my real father as well.

"How long does she usually wait?" Ron asked. Bloody hell, it's unnerving that he's so calm about this sort of talk.

"It varies…" Blaise replied, he couldn't keep the shame out of his voice. "Sometimes she waits a year, and sometimes she waits a few months. There's no way of knowing when she'll…" he trailed off.

"It's all right, Blaise," Ron said softly. "We've got time. I assume that you want to warn your stepfather?"

"I don't know," Blaise replied, his fingers massaging his forehead. What did I do to deserve this? I wish I never found that bottle in her drawers. "I don't want to cross my mother, but I also don't want to see Lord De Luca dead… I'm so fucked… Just tell me what you'd do in my shoes, please?" I've tried coming up with a solution, but I just can't do it.

"I'd warn Lord De Luca," Ron said. "It's the right thing to do."

"But it's not right for me," Blaise said. "If I get caught trying to warn him, I'll lose everything. You don't know my mother, Ron… She'll kick me into the streets without hesitation."

"But if you don't warn Lord De Luca, then an innocent man will die because you only thought about yourself," Ron countered. "Can you live with that, Blaise? Because from what I'm seeing right now, I don't think you can. You're nothing like your mother, so becoming her accomplice will haunt you forever."

Blaise rubbed his face harshly; the alcohol wasn't helping him anymore. I feel really sick all of a sudden… What am I going to do? I can't just let her kill whomever she pleases, but without her, I'm nothing.

"Right now, I wish I was never born," Blaise sighed out. "Or at least, not birthed by Clementine Zabini… Why did it have to be me, Ron? What did I do to deserve such a mother?"

"Come here," Ron beckoned him, and Blaise walked over with slump shoulders.

"I can't even sleep anymore…" Blaise muttered, while Ron put his left arm around Blaise's shoulders.

Usually, he didn't like being touched by other people, but right now, he felt comforted and safe.

"You got dealt a shitty hand, Blaise," Ron started, his arm giving Blaise a squeeze. "It's not fair that you have to make such a decision, and it's definitely not fair that your own mother put you in this position. But, mate… You can't just bury your head in the sand. That's not how you deal with problems. Sometimes, the right thing to do is also the hardest thing to do."

"So I just send him an Owl?" Blaise asked. "It's not that simple, Ron…"

"It is," Ron said. "I've been thinking about what you said before… You are never going to end up homeless, Blaise, and you know that. You have friends who would do anything for you, you have more money in your trust account than most working wizards have ever seen, and you're intelligent enough to get a really good job after graduation. Are you really scared of being poor? Or are you just scared of your mother?"

"You are not making this easy…" Blaise shrunk a little. "Of course I'm scared of her… You should be scared too…"

"Trust me, I've seen far worse than your mother," Ron said, there was too much certainty in his voice for Blaise's liking. He's faced the Dark Lord himself. "Is there a chance that she would hurt you if you defied her will?"

"She's killed six people…" Blaise muttered. "I have no reason to think otherwise."

"Then if you do warn Lord De Luca, you need to start sticking with me like glue," Ron said. "I won't let her do anything to you, Blaise."

Hearing that was quite calming, though Blaise cursed himself for indulging in such sappy behavior. Ron's always been the sentimental sort, but I hate this sort of interaction. He made no moves to distance himself from Ron; he didn't want to go back to ignoring his red-haired friend. The sappy tripe is the price for being his friend.

"Can I have more time to think about this?" Blaise asked.

"Don't take too long," Ron replied. "And if you need to talk to someone about this, I'm always here." Of course he would say that… Damn him for being so understanding.

"Let's go back to the others," Blaise cleared his throat.

"Wait… I still need to give you something," Ron said, his free hand searching his pockets. "Here it is!"

Blaise stared at the small box in Ron's gloved hand, and then he looked right into Ron's eyes.

"Looks a bit small for a present," Blaise said.

"Fuck you too, bitch," Ron laughed. "Just open it, you git."

Blaise took the box from Ron, not failing to notice that Ron's left arm was still on his shoulder. Classic Ron… He won't stop until he sees me smiling like some clown. Blaise opened the box, and his eyes widened a little. Inside was a beautiful, golden Double Half Hunter pocket watch, and Blaise could easily make out the inscription on the watch's cover. Fratello… Brother…

He felt his throat close up a little, the pocket watch had elicited various emotions from him. For the most part, he was just stunned that Ron of all people could think of such a meaningful gift. But saying that, a part of Blaise didn't feel right with the fact that Ron was giving him such a gift. My father is supposed to give this to me… Hollowness filled him when he remembered that his father was already dead, just another victim of his mother's favorite pastime. I don't even know my father's name, though. Did mother even marry my father? Or did she just sleep with some stranger and forgot to drink a Contraception Potion the next day-

"You don't like it?" Ron asked, he sounded unsure and worried. "Um… I'm not trying to take on a fatherly role for you, or anything… I just wanted to show you that you have Family outside of your mother."

"Oh…" Blaise broke out of his thoughts. Family outside of my mother?

He kept staring at the watch, mostly focusing on the inscription. Brother… I do like the sound of that. We've called each other that a few times, and every time, it felt like it was true. Blaise carefully plucked the watch out of its container, both boys marveling at the gears inside. He picked a really stylish watch to boot.

"This is very…" Blaise started, but he had forgotten about his dry throat. "This is a really nice gift, Ron… Thank you."

"It's not weird?" Ron looked quite relieved.

"No," Blaise smiled a little. "It's just the sort of sappy thing I'd expect from you."

Ron blinked, and then he grinned his usual lopsided grin.

"I'm not becoming predictable, am I?" Ron sniggered. No, you really aren't.

"Just a little," Blaise lied, his hand tightening around the watch. "Oh, and um… I share your sentiment…" Don't cringe, Blaise.

"You share my sentiment?" Ron repeated. "You know, you can just say that we're like brothers now. I won't judge-"

"You're such a prat," Blaise couldn't hold back a small chuckle.

He placed the watch back inside the box; he was going to start wearing this every day. I do have Family outside of my mother… That thought definitely gives me some hope. I don't have to be like her. I can be better.

"Can I say that I love you?" Ron asked merrily.

"I think you just did," Blaise lost some of his mirth. I've reached my limit with this sort of talk, I reckon.

"Don't you 'share my sentiment'?" Ron teased.

"All right, now you're making me regret this," Blaise huffed. "You can take your arm off my shoulders now-"

"But I missed you," Ron 'whined'. "We have so much time to make up for." Fuck that!

"Get off," Blaise tried to flee, but Ron was a little too strong to push away. "This is uncalled for, Ron… Stop that!"

"I missed you so much, brother," Ron hummed, his long arms wrapping around Blaise. Morgana, save me! He's squeezing the life out of me!

Albus Dumbledore's POV

Monday 18th January, 1994 (The Headmaster's Office – After Dinner)

"I think I've lost," Severus frowned at the board.

"Not quite," Albus chuckled, his face a little flushed from the wine. "I still see one path that can lead you out of the fray."

"I'm sure you do," Severus said, a hint of petulance in his voice. "I surrender this match."

Severus knocked over his king, putting an end to the slaughter.

"Another?" Albus asked, and Severus gave a nod.

Albus flicked his wand at the board, and it began to set itself up for another match. Severus filled their cups with more wine; he had a resolute look on his face. Ah, the fire of youth. He's quickly regaining his old self. I just hope that some lessons don't leave him as a result.

"Are you going to make a move in this century?" Severus asked icily.

"You shouldn't rush the elderly, my boy," Albus smiled at his friend.

"Elderly?" Severus repeated dully. "Just make a move."

Albus was about to move a pawn forward, but a sudden knock on the door stopped him. Who could that be? Albus reached out to sense the Magic coming from behind the door, and a very familiar coldness gripped him. There was bitterness and rage, but also a strong sense of duty and love.

"Come in, Ronald," Albus said, and the door swung open.

Ronald sauntered in with a happy smile, closing the door a little too loudly.

"Shit, sorry about that!" Ronald laughed. "I think there's a draft in here!"

"Why are you here?" Severus asked. "And why are you being so loud?"

"Severus…" Albus whispered, this was too amusing to stop. I wonder what's got him in such a merry mood.

"I have something to tell you both," Ronald walked over and dropped into his chair. "I went to your Office first, Sir, but you weren't there. I figured that I'd floo up here, but then I wondered if I would be intruding on-"

"Get to the point," Severus said sharply.

"Please don't rush me," Ronald clicked his tongue. "I'm trying to tell a tale here." Trying to tell a tale? Does he normally talk like this?

"He's drunk," Severus suddenly growled, while Albus noticed Ronald's flushed cheeks. "That's why he wasn't at dinner, Albus."

"Bloody hell…" Ronald muttered sheepishly. "I thought I was being subtle, but it took you less than a minute to figure me out."

"Ronald, explain yourself," Albus said, he was both concerned and intrigued.

"It's Blaise's birthday today, and we got a hold of some punch," Ronald replied. "I'm just a bit tipsy, that's all."

"Have you eaten dinner?" Albus couldn't help but ask, his voice becoming a little stern.

"Yeah, I've eaten…" Ronald gave Albus an odd look. Is that guilt? "It's not that big a deal… Yeesh…"

"Not that big a deal?" Severus sneered, and Ronald's lips twitched downwards. I should step in.

"Severus and I can't judge you," Albus smiled at Ronald, his tone becoming much lighter. "We're both quite drunk ourselves."

"Really?" Ronald's eyes flashed, while Severus shot Albus an annoyed glare. Let the boy live a little, Severus. He's earned that much, at least. "You totally are! Where was my invite?!"

"Your invite?" Severus' eye twitched.

"Had you attended dinner, I would have invited you," Albus chuckled. "Now, was there any cake left behind from your friend's birthday?"

"Oh, loads," Ronald replied. "I'll bring you some tomorrow morning."

"Lovely," Albus said. "I look forward to it." I suppose my breakfast is sorted-

"What did you want to tell us, boy?" Severus asked in a cold whisper.

"You're no fun," Ronald 'sighed'. "Fine… I just wanted to ask you two for some help."

"Help?" Albus leaned forward.

"I've learned something rather fucked up," Ronald started. "As it turns out, the Entity bleeding into me has caused me to become vulnerable to the very Magic used to bind it." Is that even possible?

"Wait… Start again," Severus ordered with a furrowed brow.

"Look, all you need to know is that when I die, I'll be locked away with the Entity for all of Eternity," Ronald said, his mirth mostly vanishing.

Albus and Severus exchanged slow looks; both of them were a little jarred by this. Locked away for all of eternity?

"Tell me everything," Albus said. "From the very start, Ronald. Don't leave out a single detail, however small."

Twenty Minutes Later

It was a testament to the Higher Beings' power that whenever Albus spoke of them, he was always filled with a gnawing mixture of fear and fascination. Unfortunately, this time, Albus had felt mostly fear. If what Ronald was saying was true, then his very soul had to have been changed. This knowledge left a very disturbing question in Albus' mind… How much of Ronald Weasley was sitting in front of them right now?

"Do either of you know of something that could help me?" Ronald asked, he was starting to sound weaker by the minute. He's definitely scared, but at the same time, he looks almost resigned. This is not good. I must do something about the Entity, or it will drive Ronald mad before long.

"Albus?" Severus was somehow hiding his shock better than Albus was.

"I never learned to manipulate souls," Albus told them. "This kind of Magic… It is beyond mortal skill. We don't even have an understanding of what a human soul truly is."

"The Dark Lord split his soul, didn't he?" Severus asked. "It's clearly possible to manipulate souls-"

"Lord Voldemort split his soul, he didn't manipulate it," Albus said. "From what Ronald has told us, the Entity hasn't split Ronald's soul. It is somehow merging itself with it. That is unheard of, I assure you."

"So… There's nothing to be done?" Ronald asked, fear flashing behind his eyes. "I see… That's… Um… Great… Just brilliant…"

He stood up and fixed up his robes.

"Sit back down," Severus said. "We're not done just yet. We can still come up with an idea on how to help you."

"I'm actually really tired," Ronald exhaled. "I'm just going to go back to my room. I'll figure something out down the line." He's too smart to lie to, and he's not one to accept false hope.

"I will look for answers, Ronald, but I cannot promise anything," Albus said truthfully. "I am sorry."

"Nah," Ronald put on a smile as he waved a dismissive hand. "If you find something, that'd be great, but don't stress about it. We've got enough problems already."

With that, Ronald headed for the door. Severus shot another annoyed glare at Albus, but Albus didn't say anything. There's no point. He was struggling to go on, not that I blame him.

"First, you let him stay," Severus started once Ronald was gone. "And then, you just let him leave. Are you trying to do whatever annoys me most?"

"He clearly doesn't want to talk about it, but he's scared enough that he still brought it up," Albus explained his reasoning. "Now that we know what's on his mind, we can help him without stressing him about it."

Severus didn't look entirely convinced, but at least he stopped frowning.

"Well? What's the plan?" Severus asked. "Do you know of someone who can help us?"

"No, but I intend to start searching," Albus replied. "We can't let this happen to him. An eternity with that demon… That's his reward for enduring so much? No… We will find something. We must."

Albus had completely lost his mood for drink and games, and he was sure that Severus felt the same way.

"I'll reach out to some of my old contacts from Knockturn Alley," Severus got out of his chair. "If there are any Tomes on souls, then they might be considered Dark enough to be peddled in that cesspool."

"Go," Albus gave a nod. "I will reach out to an Unspeakable friend of mine. He might be able to give us a lead to follow." Ronald will not meet this fate, I will make sure of it.

Ronald Weasley's POV

Tuesday 19th January, 1994 (The Defense Classroom – After Classes)

"So…" Remus took out his wand, and then gestured them to do the same. "The Spell I am going to try and teach you all is highly advanced Magic. It's called the Patronus Charm."

"How does it work, Sir?" Millie asked.

"Well, when it works correctly, it conjures up a Patronus," Remus explained. "The Patronus is a spiritual guardian, and is often seen as an Anti-Dementor. The Patronus can act as your shield, or, it can act as your sword. It is, after all, an extension of your will."

"Why is it seen as an Anti-Dementor?" Hermione asked, she and Percy were taking notes.

"The Patronus is a kind of positive force, a projection of the very things that the Dementor feeds upon: hope, happiness, the desire to survive," Remus said. "However, the Patronus is not a living being, and as such, it cannot feel despair as a real living being would. The Dementor can't harm it, and if a Patronus is strong enough, the Dementor can be banished." This Spell sounds brilliant! I can't wait to cast it!

"Wicked," Fred and George grinned.

"I must warn you all not to get too excited," Remus said. "This is very advanced Magic, and many qualified wizards struggle to produce a Patronus."

"What does a Patronus look like?" Luna asked.

"Each one is unique to the wizard who conjures it," Remus replied.

"So mine could look like a hare?" Luna smiled airily.

"It's possible," Remus chuckled.

"How do we conjure it?" Hermione asked.

"With an incantation," Remus replied. "But this incantation will only work if you are focusing, with all your might, on a single, very happy memory."

"What?" Daphne whispered. "A happy memory?"

"Magic works in weird ways," Ron shrugged. "This could be a really old Spell, and those are always hard to pull off."

"You should all take some time to find that special memory," Remus said. "The Spell won't work if your memory isn't joyous enough." A happy memory, eh?

The whole class went dead quiet, all of them trying to find a suitable memory. What should I think about? When was the last time that I was really happy? My date with Daphne, I reckon. Ron tried to recreate his date with the help of his Occlumency; it was surprisingly easy to remember the whole night. Definitely my best idea in recent memory! Ron shot a subtle smile at Daphne, who was currently staring ahead with a furrowed brow. Hehe, she's got her nose all scrunched up.

"Everyone got a memory?" Remus asked, and he received multiple nods. "All right, then… Repeat after me. Expecto Patronum."

"Expecto Patronum," they all repeated.

"Again."

"Expecto Patronum."

"You're all focusing on your happy memory?" Remus asked. I know I am.

Ron still felt butterflies in the stomach from his date, and thanks to his Occlumency, he was even able to relive the feel of the room. Cool, the smell of fresh air, and an amazing view.

"Now, just aim your wands ahead, and say the incantation," Remus instructed. "Remember to focus on your happy memory."

"Expecto Patronum," Ron chanted, focusing hard on his happy memory.

Something whooshed suddenly out of the tip of his wand; it looked like a wisp of silvery gas. It worked? No… It only partially worked. That silvery gas was pathetic. Ron looked around the room, and he saw that he wasn't the only one who had found success. Even Ginny was shooting him a proud smile from his left, clearly pleased with her little victory. Shame that Luna's not sitting with us. I want her and Ginny to make up already. Ron's eyes darted towards Hermione, and he saw that she was no longer shooting glances at Ginny. I guess learning new Magic distracted her. She definitely wants to approach Ginny, though. I can see it.

"Was that it?" Neville asked.

"Yeah, we were expecting something grander," Fred said.

"For something grander, you all need to find stronger memories," Remus said. Stronger memories?

"My memory's the best one I have, Sir," Theo said.

"If that's the case, then dig deeper into the memory," Remus advised. "If it's your best one, then it's no doubt filled with a lot of sentimental value. Remember how you truly felt at the time."

Maybe his date with Daphne wasn't enough? I mean, it was really amazing, but I definitely have stronger memories. Ron started going through his fondest moments. The twins buying him a Chudley Cannons Badge. Not enough. Lord Greengrass offering him an Apprenticeship. I've had better moments with him since then. What about Pandora? What of the night he had saved her life? I remember that… Dad was there, and he told me that he'd never been prouder than he was at that moment. Ron smiled to himself, this one could work. I think that was the night that my mission became clear to me. My first real victory.

"Let's all try again," Remus said. "Does everyone have a new memory?"

Everyone nodded.

"Say it with some gusto," Remus suggested.

"Expecto Patronum!" Ron chanted, his mind fixed on his memory.

His wand vibrated a little, and a stronger, more visible gust of silvery gas poured forth. It didn't work… It had been enough to impress Ginny and Daphne, but Ron was left thoroughly underwhelmed. It's supposed to be a spiritual guardian, right? Is mine supposed to be a fart? Would the Universe really fuck me over like this?

"You don't look happy," Ginny nudged him. "I thought that was good, Ron. It was certainly better than mine."

"I just thought that I had the perfect memory," Ron said. "Damn…" Where did it go wrong? That was pretty much the night that I was reborn.

"Is there some way to pinpoint the memory needed for this Charm?" Hermione asked, and everyone listened intently.

"It has to come from the heart," Remus chuckled. What? What kind of lame answer is that?

The others looked just as bored as Ron; this was definitely going to take longer than planned. I should get a conversation going. It'll help everyone in mending some bridges. Maybe I should ask Percy for some advice, and make sure that everyone sees me doing it? That might inspire them.

"Expecto Patronum," Ginny chanted, her wand aimed forward.

A thin silvery gas poured out in spurts, making Ron snigger.

"Ginny, your wand shit itself," Ron laughed.

From somewhere in the back, he heard Tracey and Theo laugh.

"It did look like that, didn't it?" Ginny grimaced. "Ugh… That was a great memory, I'm sure of it."

"What was it?" Ron asked.

"I'm not telling you that," Ginny said defensively.

"Ron, respect her privacy," Daphne whispered, she was clearly listening in. What? I didn't mean anything by it.

"I wasn't trying to pry," Ron told Ginny. "I was just curious, that's all."

"No… I'm being weird," Ginny sighed out, surprising both Daphne and Ron. "I was thinking of the time I flew on Harry's Firebolt. That's one wicked broom, and I've never felt like that before." That's her best memory?

"Maybe you should look for another one?" Ron suggested.

"I could say the same for you," Ginny said. Point well made.

"I'm going to go talk to Perce," Ron decided to get the inter-House conversation going. "I bet he has some good idea on where to start."

"Your brother might know where to start?" Millie asked from behind him. I should have become a fisherman. Look at all these bites I'm getting.

"Want to come with?" Ron smiled at Millie and Pansy. "It can't hurt, right?"

"I'm game," Millie agreed.

"Sure," Pansy gave a weak smile. She's feeling down again? Why? I need to get Daphne on this.

Harry Potter's POV

Tuesday 19th January, 1994 (The Defense Classroom – Almost Evening)

This last memory was definitely going to work.

This was Harry's single most cherished moment, after all.

"Expecto Patronum!" Harry chanted, his mind fixed on the memory of Sirius gaining custody of him.

That was the day that Harry had escaped the Dursleys. That was the day that Harry had finally felt like he had a Family. He had gone from being an orphan to having two excellent guardians, both of whom loved him unconditionally. That was pretty much the night that I was reborn.

His wand vibrated intensely, and then, a huge, silver shadow came out of the tip of his wand, hovering between him and his startled classmates. Harry tried to hold the shadow in place, but the moment he thought he saw the shape of antlers; the silver shadow began to diminish.

"Well done, Harry!" Remus clapped from across the classroom. "Well done!" It really worked?

Harry felt quite drained all of a sudden, and he quickly plopped down onto the seat behind him. Within seconds, he was surrounded.

"That was wicked, mate," Fred clapped him on the back.

"Bloody brilliant," George added.

"Good on you, mate," Neville beamed.

"I thought I saw antlers," Luna smiled and cocked her head. "You must have a Reindeer for a spiritual guardian, Harry." I really hope that that's not true.

"How'd you do it?" Hermione asked.

"I just thought of my best memory, and it worked," Harry replied, he wasn't too sure about his success either.

"But which memory?" Hermione asked.

"Um… It's private," Harry replied.

"Oh… Okay," Hermione backtracked. "What did it feel like?"

"Let me through, please," came Remus' voice, and Harry's friends moved aside. "That really was brilliant, Harry! It's hard to believe that you got it so quickly! I've never seen anything like it!"

"So that was the whole Spell?" Harry asked, unable to hide his disbelief.

"Well, no…" Remus replied. "But you got extremely close. Here, eat this chocolate. It will give you the fuel you need to try again."

Harry took the chocolate bar from Remus, he felt slightly uncomfortable with all of these people crowding him.

"We're all trying to figure out how to do it over there," Hermione pointed towards the Slytherins, Ginny, and Percy. "Can you come and show us how you did it?"

"It'd be really helpful," Fred said.

"We're not making any progress here," George added.

Harry looked towards Neville, who gave him a subtle nod. Really? Fine…

"I can try again," Harry said to Hermione. "But I can't guarantee that it'll work."

"I'm sure it'll work," Hermione said. "Now, come along."

They all made their way towards the others, and Harry noticed the stares immediately. Most of them looked intrigued enough, but a couple of them looked annoyed. Malfoy and Percy… Wait, why's Percy giving me that stare? It suddenly occurred to Harry that Percy had never forgiven him for stalking Ron. I shouldn't have come here.

"Are you going to show us how you did it?" Ron asked, he was looking at Harry with a furrowed brow. He looks a bit frustrated, and if I'm being honest, it still feels weird to look at him after what he did to our team during the Tournament. It took him five seconds to take us all out… He's miles ahead of everyone. Is that why Professor Dumbledore keeps approaching him?

"I'm going to try again, but I'm not sure if it will work," Harry said, and everyone made some space for him.

Harry cleared his mind first, making sure to remove any and all thoughts. Then, he focused on Sirius, and the conversation that they had had before Sirius had given him everything he ever wanted. It really was the best day of my life.

"Expecto Patronum!" Harry chanted powerfully.

His wand vibrated again, and just like before, a huge, silver shadow poured out of Harry's wand. Harry heard gasps and other sounds of awe, but he kept his focus on his memory. This shadow wasn't as large as the last one, but maintaining it took more out of Harry than he had anticipated. His knees buckled before he could make out any shapes, and he fell forward on all fours. The shadow dispersed, leaving behind a weakened Harry.

"Harry! Are you all right?!" Hermione rushed over, while Neville came from the other end.

"Help me," Neville said as he pulled Harry up.

"I'm okay…" Harry panted, but Neville and Hermione helped him into a chair nonetheless. God, I'm completely tuckered out.

His head felt woozy, and Harry struggled to keep his eyes open.

"Help him onto the ground before he falls over," came Remus' voice, and Harry's vision completely darkened.

An Unknown Time Later

"Harry! Wake up!" came Remus' voice, and Harry felt horribly cold. What's going on…?

"Not Harry!" a woman screamed in the back of his mind, making Harry flinch a bit. "Not Harry! Please! I'll do anything!"

The woman suddenly screamed loudly, and in the background, Harry heard high-pitched laughter. Mum!

"Where am I?" Harry shot up, a cold sweat on his brow. Where's mum?!

"Hey… Relax," Remus said gently, he was kneeling beside Harry.

"I heard my mum, Remus!" Harry blurted out. "She was screaming for me-"

"Harry," Remus stopped him, and when Harry realized why, his face almost dropped.

The Slytherins, the Weasleys, Hermione, Neville, and Luna were still here, and they were all pretending to have missed what Harry was saying. All of them except for Ron, who was staring at Harry with… understanding? Harry met Ron's gaze, but he couldn't match it for long. Why is he giving me that look? He has no idea what it feels like to be an orphan. He doesn't know what it feels like to grow up without anyone caring about you.

Awkwardly, Harry sat up and rubbed his eyes, his head was still spinning terribly. I feel a bit sick… Why did I just hear mum? He suddenly realized how terrified she sounded, and that twisted something in his chest. That was the night he killed them.

"Harry, eat this," Remus rubbed his back, his free hand offering Harry some more chocolate. "It'll help you get your senses back."

Harry took the chocolate and bit into it, but his mind was somewhere else now. He was trying to hear her voice again, despite the state that it was in. He knew what his parents looked like, thanks to Hagrid, but he had no idea what they sounded like. It was a hollowing experience, and Harry hated being forced to live through it. They must've really loved me if they chose to die for me… I just wish I could spend a day with them. Even an hour would be enough.

"We'll be right outside, Harry," Neville said, and Harry looked up.

"You're leaving?" Harry asked.

"I've cut the lesson short," Remus said, and Harry looked to see people leaving the classroom. Oh…

"Just get better, okay?" Hermione smiled weakly, her concern clearly written on her face.

"He'll catch up with you in a moment," Remus promised. "Go on, you two… I'll make sure that he's all right."

Hermione and Neville waved goodbye, and then they both left the room hesitantly. Harry let out a muffled groan; he didn't want the lesson to end because of him.

"I wish you hadn't ended the lesson, Remus… I feel fine," Harry tried to stand up.

"Here," Remus moved in to help him. "Sit here."

"Thanks," Harry said as Remus helped him into a chair.

"Keep eating the chocolate," Remus said, and Harry nodded before biting into it. "You mentioned Lily before… Did you really hear her?"

Harry tensed a bit; he could still hear her screaming in the background.

"Um… She was calling out for me," Harry all but whispered. "Remus… I think I heard her moments before she was murdered by Voldemort."

Remus shuddered a little.

"How strange…" Remus rubbed the stubble on his chin.

"How is this even possible?" Harry asked. "I was thinking about the day you and Sirius took me in."

"It could be that you dug up a repressed memory from your early childhood," Remus said, though he sounded unsure. "The Patronus Charm demands a lot from a person's body and mind, and that can have different effects on different people." Remus then smiled a little. "You definitely surprised everyone, including me. That was a brilliant start, Harry. No one else even came close today, but you nearly pulled it off."

"No one came close?" Harry asked, he was definitely surprised by that. "Not even Hermione?"

"The twins and Luna showed promise," Remus replied. "Tracey, Daphne, and Percy also showed some promise. The rest have a long way to go. I must admit that I didn't see this coming, but it's always nice to be humbled."

"Why did I manage to do so well?" Harry couldn't help but ask. "I don't have all that many happy memories…"

"The quality of one's experiences far exceeds the quantity," Remus replied. "And not everyone is capable of feeling joy to the same extent as others."

"So my memory just means a lot to me?" Harry asked.

"It could just be that simple," Remus replied. "I've definitely noticed, however, that you have an affinity for casting Charms. Just like your mother."

"An affinity for casting Charms?" Harry blinked. "You really think so?"

"You always get the Spells right in my classes, and Professor Flitwick speaks highly of you as well," Remus smiled at him. "He's actually pointed this out to me on several occasions."

"So I'm just naturally good at this sort of Magic?" Harry found that hard to believe.

"Having an affinity for certain types of Magic doesn't defeat the skill gained by practicing," Remus said. "Always keep practicing, Harry."

"I know that," Harry said quickly.

"Good," Remus stood up to his full height. "I reckon you need to go and rest-"

"What about my mum?" Harry asked. "If I could try the Spell again, I might hear something else-"

"Harry, you are risking injury if you do this," Remus said. "I think you've done all you can for today. Promise me that you won't push yourself needlessly."

Harry wanted to argue, but he was too tired to carry on. Plus, he knew that there was no point in doing this. His parents were dead, and no matter how hard he tried, he was never going to be with them. They're dead… They're dead, and listening to echoes of them won't bring them back.

"I promise."

Ronald Weasley's POV

Tuesday 19th January, 1994 (The Boys' Room – Night)

"I'm a bit too tired for this," Pansy finally said something. "You guys can go on, I'm heading to bed."

She folded her cards, which made Ron cock an eyebrow. She's really leaving?

"Are you sure?" Daphne asked. "It's only half past nine."

"Don't really feel like playing Wizards Poker," Pansy shrugged, and then she stood up to leave. "Good night."

"Good night," some of them said back.

Once Pansy was gone, Ron shifted closer to Daphne. Something is definitely bothering Pansy.

"Daphne," Ron whispered. "Do you know what's bothering Pansy?"

"I do," Daphne replied. "But I can't tell you." What?

"Why not?" Ron asked.

"Are you two cheating?" Millie cut in.

"They're definitely cheating," Tracey frowned. "Oi! Knock that off!"

"We're not cheating," Ron started. "I was just asking Daphne about-"

"We'll forfeit this round," Daphne said. What?! No! My Chocolate Frogs are on the line! I won't get as good a hand as this again! "Ron, fold your cards. I want to talk to you outside."

"Fold, Weasley," Malfoy said crossly, and Ron shot him the bird. Fine.

"I fold," Ron clicked his tongue.

"Now go away," Theo gestured them towards the door. "Some of us are trying to win here."

"Let's go," Daphne said, and then she headed for the door.

Ron followed after her with a slightly vexed look, why did she make him fold? They could have waited a round before discussing Pansy.

"Why'd you make me forfeit?" Ron asked after he shut the door behind them. "I had a really brilliant hand."

"You nearly blurted out Pansy's business in front of everyone," Daphne replied calmly.

"Pansy's business?" Ron asked. "I don't even know what that is. I was trying to ask you about it."

"The other boys haven't noticed that she's upset, and she was hoping to keep it that way," Daphne explained. "Honestly, she definitely didn't want you to notice either…"

"So she's upset, but she doesn't want us boys to know?" Ron asked. "Why?"

"Because you lot wouldn't get it," Daphne replied. "It's a girl thing."

"Yeah… I don't care about this gender based lingo, so just tell me what's wrong," Ron said. Girl thing? A friend of ours is upset, and they're thinking about gender?

"Why should I?" Daphne asked. "You boys didn't tell us girls about your fight with Blaise, remember?"

"Um… I do remember," Ron started. "I told you all about it when you dried my hair for me."

Daphne blinked at that.

"That's right," Ron smirked. "I've been opening up a lot lately, so you can't make me see my own hypocrisy as often." I win!

"Damn…" Daphne muttered under her breath.

"Now, tell me what's wrong with Pansy," Ron said, making sure to lose his smirk. "I want to help, Daph."

Daphne bit her bottom lip as she contemplated on what to do, and after a few long seconds, she let out a sigh.

"Fine…" Daphne said, and Ron listened intently. "You remember her scheme to get more attention from the older boys?"

"It didn't work?" Ron asked. How?

"Oh, no, it worked perfectly," Daphne said. "Some of the fourth year boys are all over Tracey and Pansy, and in all honesty, even Millie and I are getting a few glances."

Ron felt a strong pang of jealousy, but he decided to keep his composure. For now…

"I haven't seen any fourth years lurking around us," Ron said, his voice too controlled.

"They're around," Daphne assured him. "They shoot subtle glances, winks, little waves, or their best smiles at us."

"Isn't that just the cutest fucking thing I've ever heard," Ron faked a laugh. "Adorable. Now, get to the point."

"Some of them are pretty cute," Daphne smirked. "You're totally right."

"Just tell me about Pansy," Ron said blandly. She'd never pay those tossers any mind. She's just trying to mess with me.

"You're cute when you're jealous," Daphne giggled. "Anyway… Pansy's scheme worked wonderfully, but then she started overthinking things."

"Overthinking things?" Ron was getting lost already. Girls…

"It's partly our fault," Daphne started. "After we came back from our date, I ran into Pansy in the dorms. She was trying to sneak Bartholomew Greene into our room-"

"Pansy hooked up with Bartholomew Greene?" Ron cut in.

"They were about to, but when she saw me, something changed in her," Daphne replied. "She looked right at my choker, and she just went really quiet. It was kind of scary."

"What happened after?"

"She sent Greene away, put on a smile, and asked me about our date," Daphne replied. "At the time, I just went ahead and told her everything."

"Everything?" Ron asked slowly.

"I washed over the snogging part," Daphne replied quickly. Oh, good. "After I was done, she gushed about everything for a full hour. I ended up falling asleep before her, and the next day, she started acting weird. Now, she just reads her Witch Weekly magazines all day long."

"Weird…" Ron said, he didn't know what to make of this. "Do you have any idea about what's going on in her mind?"

"Kind of…" Daphne replied, though she looked a bit unsure. "I think she wants some sort of special connection with another person. I mean, she spends all her free time reading erotica and romance for a reason, right? I know that she wants to be adventurous, and I know that she's slowly becoming more comfortable with her body image-" What is she talking about?

"So Pansy wants a really nice boyfriend?" Ron asked.

"Yes," Daphne nodded. "But not just any boyfriend… She wants someone who'll take her on amazing dates, and who'll treat her with love and respect." Considering what's coming, shouldn't Pansy focus on more important matters? Like, I don't know, surviving the Dark Lord! "I think she realized that the other night when she saw me come back from our date… I should've noticed, Ron, but I was feeling far too happy to notice anyone's discomfort."

"Should we get her a boyfriend?" Ron asked. "That'd make her feel better, right?"

"Are you going to hold auditions, or will you use a poll-system?" Daphne asked. "Ron, it's not our job to get her a boyfriend. She wants a relationship that can only exist in stories and fairytales. Pansy's only thinking about how amazing our date was, but she's not thinking about the reason behind it."

"We've been through some really fucked up rubbish lately," Ron nodded slowly.

"Exactly… This date was your idea of us moving on," Daphne couldn't help but smile. "And although it was perfect, we had to go through a lot to get there. Pansy's not thinking straight."

"But why now?" Ron asked. "It can't just be the choker, right?"

"This is probably coming from a bigger issue," Daphne said. "I think Pansy is scared of what's in store for her."

"The war?" Ron whispered.

"Her mother," Daphne corrected. Huh? "Think about it, Ron… What's Pansy's future if she remains with her parents?" Death. "They'll marry her off to some stranger who believes in their values. Pansy won't even get a say…"

"If Pansy doesn't want to marry some stranger, then she can just say no," Ron said.

"That's not how it works for us Pure-Blood girls," Daphne said resignedly. "Tori and I are really lucky that we have such 'modern' parents, but Millie and Pansy… Their parents have certain expectations and traditions to uphold. And now that You-Know-Who's back, it's only a matter of time before a lot of the Old Families get riled up."

"I thought Pansy's parents weren't exactly Death-Eaters in the last war," Ron said. "Though her mother is definitely a Blood-Supremacist…"

"Pansy's father is just a lazy Lord, I think," Daphne said. "Pansy's mother, however, is an adamant follower of the Old Ways. But since she's a woman, I doubt she was given any attention within the Dark Lord's camp." The Dark Lord would never rely on a lazy Lord, and he'd definitely never listen to a bitter hag like Violet… Did he just brand Egbert Parkinson because he was a wealthy Pure-Blood? You-Know-Who must have needed all the allies he could get early on… Maybe that's why the Parkinsons escaped being sentenced to Azkaban? Egbert Parkinson was a Death-Eater simply because he was terrified of the Dark Lord? He probably used the Imperius excuse as well.

"Ron?" Daphne called out, her hand finding his left cheek. "Are you okay? You zoned out completely."

"Sorry… It just occurred to me that I don't know much about Pansy's parents," Ron said, his face leaning into her touch. I need to change that.

"I think it's best that we give Pansy some space," Daphne suggested. "She just needs time to figure out what she wants more. Her parents' money and security, or a life of her own."

"Maybe we should help her choose instead of doing nothing," Ron countered. "Do you want to see Pansy choose her parents? Especially with what's coming?"

Daphne shook her head, a hint of conflict flickering across her face.

"As her friend, I want her to be happy," Daphne said. "And logically speaking, her parents' wealth and security is the safer option. They won't make her fight in the war, and she'll probably never want for anything-"

"She'll be sent to Azkaban after the Dark Lord loses the war," Ron cut in. "There is no future with the Death-Eaters, Daphne, I can promise you that."

"Ron… Relax," Daphne was a little taken aback by his outburst. "I'm not saying that they'll win… I'm just saying that we don't know what the future holds." I know exactly what it holds. Every cunt that fights on the side of the Dark Lord is a walking corpse.

"We will win," Ron said firmly. "I think we need to show Pansy that she doesn't need her terrible parents to survive."

"Ron, we really shouldn't meddle in this," Daphne said. "What if we make a mistake?" We're trying to save her life here. Taking risks comes with the job.

"I'm willing to take that risk," Ron said. "Look, I don't plan on letting Pansy join her parents. They are cruel and abusive, and they'll drag her down to hell with them."

"That decision isn't for you to make," Daphne said with a furrowed brow. "Pansy needs to choose her own life, Ron. You can't choose for her." We do whatever We must to protect what's Ours.

"Do you want to see her dead?" Ron asked. "Butchered by Aurors because she still struggles with the Shield Charm?"

Daphne went dead quiet at that, a slightly wary look on her face.

"Do you want the Dark Lord to torture her?" Ron asked. "You want to see a future where she's treated like nothing because she's a woman? Will she ever be happy living with her parents' rule? They'll probably find her a husband who is just as terrible as them, and Pansy will spend the rest of her life being pushed around. Does that sound safer to you?"

"No…" Daphne muttered.

"Then we need to do something," Ron said, his tone less cold now. "Pansy's a part of our Family, Daph… If we don't show her that, then she'll choose the terrible Family that she was born with." I'm the only one of us who'll suffer through eternal damnation, I'll make damn sure of that.

"… You're right…" Daphne whispered to herself. "Maybe I'm being too cautious…"

"You are," Ron smiled a little. "Let's come up with a plan, eh?"

Pansy Parkinson's POV

Wednesday 20th January, 1994 (The Girls' Room – After Classes)

Ron had left for his Potions Club, so the rest of them were just unwinding from their day. Daphne was taking a long shower, Tracey was listening to her Muggle music, and Millie was trying to practice the Patronus Charm. This left Pansy to peruse her Witch Weekly magazines in peace, but that peace was disturbed by a loud knock on the door.

Pansy shifted out of her bed, walked past a dancing Tracey, and opened the door.

"Hi, Pansy," Clara Martyris greeted Pansy with a smile. Clara?

"Hi…" Pansy replied slowly. "Um… Do you need to talk to the third year delegates? Daphne's in the shower right now, and Millie's in the Training Room."

"I'm here to see you," Clara said pleasantly. "Do you have a minute?"

"I do…" Pansy replied, and Clara quickly pulled Pansy along. "Where are we going?"

"There's a window at the end of the Girls' dorms," Clara replied. "It's a really ambient section, and I like to go there when I need to think."

"What are we going to think about?" Pansy asked. Why is she dragging me away from other people?

"I want to know if the rumors are true," Clara replied. "Did you really give Bartholomew Greene a handy?" What?!

"I didn't do anything like that," Pansy stopped walking, effectively stopping Clara as well. "Who told you something like that? We didn't even touch hands, Clara."

"Oh… Really?" Clara looked a bit surprised.

"Are people saying that I gave Greene a handy?" Pansy asked, she was both repulsed and annoyed.

"I heard it from a fifth year," Clara said. "It's not true, then?"

"Of course not!" Pansy said sharply. "Gross! Who's spreading this about me?"

"Probably Greene's mates," Clara replied with a perplexed look. "Oh… This is not good."

"Why would they do that?" Pansy asked.

"They like the attention," Clara sighed out. "Don't worry, Pansy, I'll shut these rumors down immediately."

"Ugh…" Pansy felt sick. "Why are all the boys in Slytherin such pigs?"

"Every teenage boy is a pig," Clara shrugged. "Just try to learn from this."

"Learn what?" Pansy asked.

"That you need to know if someone is talking about you," Clara replied. "Be a bit more connected to Hogwarts' gossip spreaders. They can often help you avoid trouble." Right…

"I'll do that," Pansy said, calming down a little. "And thanks… I don't want people to think I'm easy, or something…" I don't want to end up being like my mother.

"Don't worry about it," Clara smiled and winked, making Pansy feel a little soothed. "So if you didn't even touch hands, why was he seen near your room?"

"Oh… I planned to snog him," Pansy admitted. "He was super polite, and he was interested in everything that I talked about. I thought we had a connection."

"Yeah… He was just trying to get lucky," Clara chuckled sweetly. "If a random boy is a perfect match for you, then that's your first red-flag."

"You don't believe in true love?" Pansy asked. "I'm not being naïve, it's a proven fact that it exists."

"Love isn't true, Pansy," Clara said. "It's complicated, and very hard to define. That's why people like Greene take advantage of it. You're a smart girl, so you should learn this lesson early. Don't always believe what you see on someone's face, they could just be wearing a pretty mask."

Clara then let go of Pansy's arm.

"I'll go do something about those rumors," Clara said sweetly, and then she was gone. This day is wretched…

Wednesday 20th January, 1994 (The Girls' Room – Evening)

Pansy tossed another magazine aside; her eyes were starting to hurt from all this reading. Maybe I should date outside of Slytherin? Maybe a Hufflepuff? Justin and Wayne are pretty handsome, and they're both really polite. Wait… Justin's a Muggle-Born…

Pansy's eyes darted towards the latest letter from her mother; it was filled with the usual threats and insults about Pansy's choices in life. Her mother was particularly cruel this time, referring to Pansy as a 'Blood-Traitor's bootlicker' multiple times. All in all, it had been enough to destroy Pansy's already crippled self-esteem.

And now, she had learned that people were spreading disgusting rumors about her. If it weren't for Clara, Pansy would have lost her mind for certain. I'm definitely never talking to Greene again… I bet he started the rumors to boost his popularity. I should ask Ron and Blaise to kick his arse for me.

Pansy massaged her slightly puffy face, her foot smacking her mother's letter off of the bed. Fuck her too. She's a cruel and coldhearted monster. I wish I was just rid of her forever. A sudden knock on the door caught her attention, and Pansy crawled out of her bed. Who's knocking on our door this time? The others aren't even here.

"Who is it?" Pansy asked as she unlocked the door.

"Hello, Pansy," came Ron's voice. "It's me. Can I come in?" Ron?

"Um… Sure," Pansy replied as she opened the door. "Daphne's not here, Ron."

"I know," Ron smiled widely. "She's spending time with Tori. I'm actually here to see you. Can I please come in?"

"Am I your exit strategy?" Pansy teased, though she did feel a bit bothered by her own joke. He wouldn't be here if Daphne wasn't spending time with Tori.

"No, I planned to see you anyway," Ron chuckled, and then he showed her the container he was holding. "It's from Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlor. Vanilla with glazed strawberries. Your favorite, right?" It is, but I've never told Ron that. I think…

"You bought me ice cream from Fortescue's?" Pansy muttered, she was definitely surprised.

"I did the same for Daphne during our date," Ron admitted out of the gate. "It worked wonders with her, so I was hoping to try it on you as well." Me? Why would he try out a pickup tactic with me?

Her face flushed a little, what was Ron hinting at?

"Um…" Pansy's throat tightened. I need to think about this… Would it make things weird between Daphne and me? Wait… What if she-

"I know that something's bothering you, Pans," Ron whispered with an understanding smile. "I just want to cheer you up a little, that's all."

"Oh…" Pansy blinked. He's not making a pass at me, is he? Honestly, I'm a little disappointed… "Come on in, Ron."

Pansy moved out of the way, and Ron walked into the room with a merry smile. After Pansy shut the door, she turned to face Ron with a weak smile. Daphne's really lucky… She has all the perfect relationships. Her parents love her. She has an adorable little sister. She's got Tracey's undying support. She even has Ron as a boyfriend.

"Pansy, what's wrong?" Ron walked over, his free hand patting her arm. "You look like you've been crying." Oh, no! My face is all puffy, isn't it?!

"I'm just not wearing any makeup," Pansy shrugged. Don't worry… Ron doesn't understand anything about makeup and such.

"I can see mascara marks, Pansy," Ron said gently. "And your nose is really red as well." This day… "Look, I'm not going to pry, but can we just talk a little? Everyone's worried about you."

"Everyone?" Pansy asked. "Do the other boys know that I'm upset?"

"No, but they'll notice soon enough," Ron replied. "I mean, I managed to notice it, and I'm pretty clueless about these sorts of thing." He is, isn't he?

Pansy's lips twitched upwards for a second, she preferred it when Ron spoke gently and smoothly like right now.

"I'll have the ice-cream first, and then I'll talk," Pansy negotiated.

"I guess that's fair," Ron agreed with an easy smile.

Twenty Minutes Later

"I'm going to go wash up," Pansy hummed as she hopped out of the bed. "I'll be right back, Ron."

"I'll be here," Ron said.

Pansy made her way to the bathroom; she was feeling better than she ever had since the party. Ron was in a good mood, and he was directing all of that jolly energy in her direction. He even bought me my favorite. I bet Daphne told him what to get. Or maybe it was Millie? Once again, her friends were her source of comfort. I should get back to Ron before he gets bored. She quickly washed her hands, and hummed all the way back to her bed.

"I guess we can really start talking now," Pansy walked past the curtains with a smile.

"What is this?" Ron asked, he was holding a letter in his hands.

Pansy's eyes almost popped out of her head… Ron was holding the letter from her mother. He must have found it on the floor and picked it up! Merlin, what if he read the horrid things my mother said about him? Shame and embarrassment filled Pansy; so much so that she feared that she'd explode on the very spot.

"This is…" Ron shook his head at the letter. "What the fuck, Pansy?"

"Why did you read it…?" Pansy managed a whimper; she never could handle her negative emotions. "Don't pay any mind to what she says, Ron… Please…"

"How can I not pay this any mind?" Ron asked, his voice becoming harsh. "Look at how she talks about you here!" Me?

Ron looked back to the letter, picking out a passage to read back to Pansy.

"Stop thinking with that tiny brain of yours, and do as I command," Ron read. "You will not associate with filth like Weasley, and if I hear that you're whoring yourself-"

"Stop reading it!" Pansy heard herself snap. "Put it away! Please!"

She ran over and tried to snatch the letter away from Ron, but he quickly stood up and held it above her reach. NO! Don't read it!

"Give it back!" Pansy's shame and embarrassment fueled her anger. "You shouldn't read other people's letters!"

"I'm sorry, but a word like 'whore' catches a person's attention," Ron said, making Pansy flinch a bit. "How can she say these things to you, Pansy? This is disgusting!"

"You think I don't know that!" Pansy bit out. "Give me back what's mine!"

"Here," Ron lowered the letter, and she snatched it out of his hands. "Pans… This is not all right-"

"Why don't you mind your own business, Ron?" Pansy felt her face heat up, and her eyes began to sting. "Why did you read my letter? That's a gross invasion of privacy!" Now I feel worse than ever, and it's your fault!

"I'm sorry…" Ron apologized. "I didn't mean to read it, but like I said, some words caught my attention. I'm sorry."

"Leave," Pansy croaked, her nose scrunching up.

"No," Ron said softly. "I'm not just going to leave after seeing you like this."

"What?"

"Please don't cry," Ron pleaded, but that only made her feel worse. "Just sit down with me, please?"

"This is why I didn't want you boys to know…" Pansy sniffled, her hands fidgeting with the letter. "None of you have any tact…"

"I know," Ron sat down, and then he offered her his left hand. "I can forget about the letter, if that's what you want, but honestly, we should talk about it." What's there to talk about? My life is the worst…

She reluctantly took his hand, mostly because she couldn't stand his sorry look. She knew that he was upset on her behalf, but her earlier feelings of shame and embarrassment were still lingering about. Her mother was a plague, one that was intent on sucking the life out of Pansy's life.

"Does she always talk to you like this?" Ron wrapped his left arm around her shoulders, causing Pansy to shrink a little. "I won't repeat what you tell me to anyone, I promise."

"The others already know more than you…" Pansy muttered, her eyes fixed on her lap. "And no, she doesn't always talk to me like this… Most of the time, she doesn't talk to me at all…" That's when I'm happiest.

"Why is she talking to you like this now?" Ron asked as he gently squeezed her, making her feel a little stronger than before.

"I don't know…" Pansy admitted. "Around halfway through second year, she just started singling you out. It was after she learned that I had completely turned my back on Malfoy…" Pansy then shuddered. "I was supposed to be seducing him… A Malfoy child would finally make my mother happy…"

Ron tensed a bit, and Pansy didn't miss it. It's all right… He didn't grow up in our World. Not really. There's no point in wishing that he could sympathize with me.

"But you're still so young," Ron whispered.

"She wanted me to have a head start in life…" Pansy laughed mirthlessly, her eyes stinging again. "Something that she never got because her parents married her off to my father the year she graduated."

"Does your father know about this?" Ron asked. "Doesn't he care?"

"He doesn't care one bit…" Pansy rubbed eyes, though a couple of tears managed to escape to her cheeks. "My mother… She hit me at the end of the Break… And he didn't say a thing… I even hit my head on the table because I was wearing heels… I never told anyone…"

And just like that, Pansy couldn't hold back the tide anymore. The dam burst, and before either of them knew it, Pansy was bawling her eyes out. All of her frustrations and uncertainties bubbled to the surface, and they threatened to leave her a tear-soaked mess by the time they were done torturing her.

"It's okay, Pans," Ron's voice cut through the sobs and sniffles. "Just let it out. Everything will be just fine."

Lord Voldemort's POV

Wednesday 20th January, 1994 (Nott Manor – Evening)

"She has gone to one of our villas in Italy, my Lord," Egbert said, his voice filled with terror. Felix's information was correct, then. Corban's boy shows great promise.

"You do not know of where she's staying?" Lord Voldemort asked, his eyes fixed on the idiot who had worn his old uniform to this meeting.

All of Lord Voldemort's Pure-Blood allies were in the room, but only Egbert Parkinson had come dressed for the part. Imbecile! If it weren't for his Unicorns, I would have never reached out to him again.

"She didn't inform me before leaving, my Lord," Egbert said, and the Dark Lord noticed the dull look on Corban's face.

"Do you have something to say, Corban?" the Dark Lord hissed. "If so, give voice to thought."

"My Lord, Violet has given up her plans on Ronald Weasley's life," Corban started.

"Your Ward thinks otherwise," the Dark Lord cut in. "Isn't that so, Felix?"

"I simply believe that Violet Parkinson is not an easily deterred individual," Felix said, and Lord Voldemort smiled at the sudden tension between Corban and Felix. Perhaps I will take Felix, and use him to train myself in raising an Heir. Once I have Ronald, Corban can have his brat back.

"She is one of us, my Lord," Corban said calmly. "She deserves the right to defend her reputation." She deserves nothing… You are all here to serve me. Nothing more.

"Very well," the Dark Lord said. "Egbert will reach out to his wife, and she can come back and speak to me herself."

"Thank you, my Lord," Egbert bowed his head. "I will Owl her immediately."

"Yes, you will…" Lord Voldemort sneered. "Leave us."

Egbert bowed his head again, and then he waddled out of the room. Pathetic.

"My Lord, might I offer assistance?" Lucius spoke up. "I have much sway in Italy, and I believe that I can root her out. Egbert is a fool, and his wife runs his House."

"Why the sudden interest, Lucius?" the Dark Lord demanded. "Are you perhaps placing your petty squabble with the Weasleys over my will? Would you do such a thing, my slippery friend?"

"I would never dream of it, my Lord," Lucius bowed his head. "I simply seek to prove myself to you."

"Ah… Some honesty," Lord Voldemort smiled a lipless smile, his minions mimicking his amusement. "Very well, Lucius. Find her for me. I am, after all, in a charitable mood today."

"I will not fail you," Lucius promised. You can't afford to fail me. Not anymore.

The dining room door was suddenly pushed open, and Gaspard marched in with his daughter in tow. The Blood Lord returns from his mourning. About time.

"Gaspard," the Dark Lord greeted, and Gaspard eyed the Dark Lord's young form.

"They grow up so fast," Gaspard smirked. "I bring news, Dread Lord." His sharp tongue will be his undoing.

"Come, sit by my left," Lord Voldemort ordered, he could see that his followers were surprised and vexed.

Gaspard walked over and sat down, not paying any mind to the Death-Eaters.

"The Aurors are planning an attack on us Vampires," Gaspard started. "They want to restore Knockturn Alley to what it was, and they plan to come in numbers. I've heard that the Russian and French Aurors volunteered to come help in this operation."

"Russian Aurors?" Lord Voldemort hissed. Samara? Does she still need time establishing herself as the sole leader of the Russian Ministry? The years have turned her incompetent!

"Luka Yahontov himself is coming down," Gaspard smiled in anticipation. "It's going to turn into a bloodbath-"

"Is that wise, my Lord?" Corban asked. "British Blood will be spilled. Many Aurors come from proper stock, and their lines would end if they died in this assault."

"Corban speaks sense," George Selwyn said. "We must do everything in our power to keep the Old Blood alive." This again… The Old Blood is nothing. I tire of granting these pointless wishes.

"Gaspard's forces will take caution not to spill too much blood," the Dark Lord said.

"That was not our deal," Gaspard reminded the Dark Lord. "I will have blood to honor Michael."

"That you will," the Dark Lord's eyes blazed red. "You will not be in Knockturn Alley when this assault is carried out. You will be breaking into Azkaban, and freeing my most loyal."

The whole table tensed, no doubt terrified of the returning loyalists. Every Death-Eater in this room was disloyal when it really mattered. The loyalists will teach them all a much-needed lesson in loyalty.

"Is this wise, my Lord?" Cornelius asked.

"You would question me?" Lord Voldemort glared at Cornelius. "Speak your mind, then, Cornelius… Before I spill it all over this table."

"This would attract far too much attention," Cornelius tried. "My Lord, the Ministry will unleash the Dementors. We would all suffer suspicion from the Aurors, which will lead to investigations and warrants."

"Then it is a good thing that none of you have anything to hide," the Dark Lord said. "I plan to return to my own Manor. My most loyal will join me there, while the others wait by for orders."

"The Carrows are ever your loyal subjects, my Lord," Alecto Carrow said from the end of the table. Your older brother would suit my needs better. I don't need more bloodhounds.

"We all serve at your pleasure, my Lord," Cornelius said. "I merely wished to share my mind."

"And I have listened," Lord Voldemort said. "You are all dismissed. Await for my words, and do not fail me."

They all rose up, and Lord Voldemort gestured Gaspard to sit back down. I have grown bored in this Manor. Perhaps the Blood Lord can alleviate my boredom. Lord Voldemort and Gaspard watched the others leave, and once they were completely alone, Gaspard looked to the Dark Lord.

"Attacking Azkaban is not very smart," Gaspard said. "That place is a fortress filled with soul-sucking wraiths. Even if my forces engage the Aurors at the perfect moment, I would still not be able to complete my mission."

"Natalia will focus on keeping the Aurors alive and trapped," the Dark Lord said. "You will carry out my will, and you will not fail. I have grown tired of failure, Gaspard. I will turn your kind to ash if I am disobeyed."

"You're very dramatic," Gaspard said as he fixed his round shades into place. "I will need funding for this endeavor."

"What of your own funds?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"My accountant was murdered," Gaspard said with a hint of amusement. "The funds aren't coming in, and I haven't gotten around to finding another source. If you want the impossible, then you need to pay for it."

"Speak to Felix Rosier," the Dark Lord said. "He will fill your pockets discreetly."

"Then I shall go and present myself to this boy," Gaspard said. "I think that we will be fast friends."

"Before you leave, answer me this," Lord Voldemort said. "What did you see tonight?"

"I saw far too much to describe," Gaspard smirked. "Perhaps another time, Dark One."

"You are not bothered by their stares?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"The lion doesn't concern himself with the opinions of the sheep," Gaspard replied. "To me, they are food. Nothing more, and nothing less." Gaspard then leaned forward a little. "You see them just as I do. They are the stepping-stones that lead to loftier heights. You do not believe in their cause, but you pretend like you do."

"And why would I lower myself so?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"They have wealth and power," Gaspard replied. "You tolerate their demands and inner politics, but most of them are unaware of who they're dealing with. They want to manipulate you into carrying out their agendas, but that'll never happen. You don't serve anyone but yourself."

"I sense that we are kindred spirits, then," Lord Voldemort said.

"No…" Gaspard smiled in a haunting manner. "No one is like me, Voldemort. Not a single soul. I simply know what you're like because I've served under a Muggle who was very much like you."

"You've served under a Muggle?" Lord Voldemort asked.

"Adolf Hitler," Gaspard replied calmly. "You'd know of him, wouldn't you? You were, after all, raised in a Muggle Orphanage, right?"

The Dark Lord's eyes bore into the Blood Lord's, but Gaspard showed no signs of fear or hostility. Wretch. If only I could be rid of him. Soon…

"I do not know of this 'Adolf Hitler'," the Dark Lord lied.

"Well, he was a Muggle leader," Gaspard said. "He led the Nazi Party of Muggle Germany during their Second World War. I found myself acting as one of his captains. Hitler knew of my appetite for carnage, and so he gave me my own camp. My very own endless supply of blood."

"What is your point?" Lord Voldemort asked. "How does this relate to Lord Voldemort?"

"He was a force of nature," Gaspard said. "Every so often, the World seeks to correct itself through a purge. Men like you are born, and they plunge the World into war and chaos. No matter who wins, the end result is always the same. Everything is balanced. Hitler too couldn't stand his generals, nor did he bother with their demands. He despised me, much like you do, but he still elevated me above all others because he only wanted to bring death and destruction."

Gaspard then stood up, a calm smile on his fair face.

"You are this World's reset button," Gaspard said. "No matter what happens next, everything will be balanced. Death will wash the slate clean. That… is Hecate's Will."

Gaspard left at that, leaving behind a slightly puzzled Dark Lord. Hecate? He's mentioned her before. Who is this woman? And why does a beast like Gaspard follow her 'Will'?

Ronald Weasley's POV

Wednesday 20th January, 1994 (The Cliffside – Near Midnight)

"Expecto Patronum," Ron chanted from behind his silver mask, and his wand produced a weak silver gas. Fuck sake! None of my memories are working! This fucking Spell is going to take a long time to master, I already know it.

Ron pocketed his wand and looked off of the cliff, he was too distracted to make any progress anyway. Pansy had cried herself to sleep, and Ron could do little to help. Violet fucking Parkinson… She could have killed Pansy. What if her head had split open on the table? Ron turned his head and cracked his neck, his hands fixing up his black bowtie. He was definitely going to make Violet Parkinson bleed. I just need to wait for an opportunity.

"You're here," came Emilia's voice from behind him, and Ron quickly turned to face her. "What. The. Fuck?"

"What?" Ron asked.

"What are you wearing?" Emilia looked him over with a grimace.

"A disguise," Ron replied.

"Are you a child?" Emilia asked. Um… "Wait, you actually fucking are. Morgana's mercy, this is what I've been reduced to." You know what?

"Save your mewling," Ron growled, his crimson, toad-like eyes gleamed from behind his mask's windows. "Where is your Half-Troll? We have been waiting for too long."

"Kreacher is picking him up…" Emilia replied, her right hand resting on the hilt of her Blade. "Relax… All right. I spoke out of turn."

Ron sneered from behind his mask, though he was glad that his embarrassed blush was hidden. A disguise is a smart move… This guy's is a criminal, right? I don't want him to see my face.

"Smart choice with the hair," Emilia said, as if trying to make it up to Ron. "Did you do that yourself?"

"A friend helped," Ron replied coldly.

There was a sudden crack, and the sound of a loud groan.

"Fuckin' hell, ya little bastard," the burly man swayed from side-to-side. "I told ya that I'm not fit to travel, didn't I? My head's swimming in the stars…"

"Solomon," Emilia called, and the Half-Troll looked away from Kreacher. Bloody hell, that is a big man.

Solomon was a mountain of muscle, his true form hidden poorly behind a religious garment of some sort. The Half-Troll had a thick, black, bushy beard, and a deep scar run diagonally through his face.

"God have mercy, mate…" Solomon eyeballed Ron. "What the fuck are you supposed to be?" What should I say?

"A friend of Emilia's," Ron deepened his voice, and Solomon let out a bark of laughter. Fuck…

"Are you taking the piss, love?" Solomon suddenly rounded on Emilia, getting right into her face. "Is this a funny little joke to you?" This is not going well.

"This is no joke," Emilia said calmly. "He is the one who asked me to get rid of the Abadies."

Solomon looked critically at Ron, his face twitching in amusement. I'm a little scared here… This bastard looks unstable.

"An eccentric fellow, eh?" Solomon finally spoke. "Well, I have nothing against hedonism. We must all answer to our own God one day, right?" Hedonism? Do I look like some weirdo? Damn… Maybe the disguise was stupid after all…

"You wanted to see me?" Ron asked, trying to get this over with.

"This one even sounds like a virgin," Solomon shot a quick look at Emilia. "Have your balls dropped yet, boy? Was it a rush of testosterone that led you to murder my patrons? Puberty has you feeling murderous, does it?" He's a fucking prick.

"They were in my way," Ron said. "And they threatened my efforts. My feud with them had nothing to do with you."

"You used my assassins, chum," Solomon stepped up to Ron, his large build making Ron look tiny. "Fucking chum… You used my assassins. You hurt my pouch with my own assets." I should just throw Emilia under the bus… Why did she lie to this maniac's people?

"I didn't know that I needed your permission," Ron said, he couldn't let Emilia deal with this giant on her own. We both need each other. "Next time, I'll ask you in person."

"You'll feel my boot against your throat the next time," Solomon warned in an oddly soft voice.

"Solomon, drop this act of yours before he kills you," Emilia spoke up, while Ron glared into Solomon's good eye. "I'm the one who approached your 'bakers', not him. He is my partner in my Blood Oath, and I need you both to enact my vengeance."

"Are we to become some unholy Trinity, then?" Solomon asked Emilia, his thumbs cracking his fingers. "All of us working together to bring your bloody goals to fruition? Yeah… Fuck that. I've got my own to worry about. You two owe me gold, that's it."

"We all share a common goal," Emilia said. "Surviving the Dark Lord, and destroying his forces."

"This kid knows about the Dark One?" Solomon looked to Ron. "Hmm… Let me guess… You're connected to the Order because of a parent." Huh? "I'm going to say that your name is… Ronald Weasley? The Slytherin Prodigy." What the fuck?! "Surprised? You shouldn't be. I saw a photo of you two talking to each other during the Gala for the restoration of St. Mungo's. It was in an old paper, but I was stalking Emilia at the time, so I came across it."

"Great…" Emilia sighed out. What. Just. Happened?

"Take that fuckin' thing off," Solomon grunted at Ron. "Absolutely ridiculous…"

Ron drew in a deep breath; he had half a mind to drag Solomon down the cliff with himself. He's clearly smarter than me. I should be a bit more careful going forward. He knows my name, which gives him genuine power over me. Ron pulled his mask off, and Solomon took a good look at his face.

"The boy wonder…" Solomon walked up and sniffed him, causing Ron to step back with a wary look. "Perfumed little shit… I should squeeze the life out of you for the shit you pulled. A man's reputation can be seen on the smiles of his patrons. You hurt something sacred, and now you need to pay for it."

"He's already agreed to pay," Emilia said.

"But only if you show me your worth," Ron said, what did he have to fear? Nothing. If I die here, the Cycle restarts. I wonder what happens to me, though. Does the Entity claim me?

Solomon took a step up to Ron, his eye burrowing a hole through Ron's forehead. His face twitched, and then he grimaced before grunting.

"The fuckin' youth these days," Solomon shook his head. "The fuck happened to you lot? You'd never catch me pulling this crazy shit when I was your age. No, you wouldn't… Complete nutters."

Solomon limped away from Ron, putting some distance between himself and his new patrons.

"I want five hundred a month from both of you," Solomon said, his left hand scratching his beard. "It's a fair sum, I think, and you ought to bloody take it. Yes?" If Scrimgeour has stopped looking into me, then I can ask Gornuk to transfer my bribe money towards Solomon instead.

"And what will we get in return?" Ron asked.

"You'll get to live," Solomon smiled.

"Not good enough," Emilia said. "Do not cheat me, Solomon." Me? We're a team here, remember?

"What do you want?" Solomon asked. "Ask, and you shall receive." Is he drunk, or something?

"We want eyes and ears," Emilia said. "We want wands and men to wield them. We're preparing for a war, and it's past time that you started contributing. You did choose us, after all."

"Two virgins… That's not what I had in me mind," Solomon grimaced. Virgins? What? "But I suppose God works in mysterious ways… Fuck it, then. Give me a few days, and you'll have your demands. Just don't forget to pay the bill."

"Send them to my villa in France," Emilia said. "The Order does not have the means to contain them in England." Horse shit.

"Done," Solomon began walking towards Kreacher. "Give the kid my details, yeah? It's fuckin' freezing out here. What the fuck…?"

Ron watched quietly as Kreacher Apparated Solomon away. What a weird cunt… I don't know what to make of him. Yet.

"That went well," Emilia said.

"Did it?" Ron asked. "You just moved the Order's troops into your own home. Why?" Since when does the bishop hoard all the pawns?

"The Order is too soft to wield a sharpened blade," Emilia replied without hesitation. "Should they ever need the help, I will hand the troops over. But until then… We will control the troops' movements. We have a goal to reach, remember?"

"Your Blood Oath comes second to my wishes," Ron reminded her. "Don't ever forget that."

"If you get what you want, then I get what I want," Emilia said. "So yes, I will put your wishes first." Horseshit.

"Good."

"Just send the money to me, and I will pass it on to Solomon on your behalf," Emilia said.

"Before you leave, I have one question," Ron said. "Egbert Parkinson? Is he on your list?"

"No," Emilia replied. Fuck. "What has Egbert Parkinson done to incur your wrath?"

"He's done nothing," Ron replied. Nothing at all. His wife beats his daughter right in front of him, and he does nothing. "I might need some of our newly acquired wands very soon."

"Just don't waste them," Emilia said, deciding not to pry. "One thousand a month doesn't afford many wands, and Solomon does not believe in giving friendly discounts. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to return to France. My little cousin has her dance recital tomorrow, and I promised to attend."

Thursday 21st January, 1994 (The Room of Hidden Things – Free Periods)

"Fuuuuuuckkkkk…." Ron groaned as he levitated the heavy chest towards the gem pile. "Why didn't I use a wand…?"

The chest slipped out of his hold, and it crashed onto the ground. Its contents were scattered everywhere, making the ground look like a colorful crystal painting.

"Master?!" came Marty's voice from behind a large set of armor.

"I'm okay!" Ron called back. "I'm just stupid as all fuck…"

He pulled out his wand, and cast 'Reparo' on the chest. He then levitated each spilled piece back into the chest. That should make me a lot of money. I wonder if Martin has the money to buy all of this. I doubt he does, which means that I might need to bring Gornuk into this. He'll want a cut, though. He jotted down what they had found so far as he schemed away in his head.

"Master is distracted," Marty said as he brought over some fancy looking swords.

"I guess I am," Ron said. "Where'd you find those, Marty?"

"Behind the Merman statue," Marty replied. "What has Master so distracted?"

"His long nose…" Ron sighed out. "I'm worried about a friend of mine."

"It's not Mistress, is it?" Marty asked attentively.

"No… It's Pansy," Ron replied. "She's struggling with some personal stuff right now, and I don't know what to do. I want to help, but I can't think of anything." Well, I can think of one particular thing. "I want my friends to be safe during this war, Marty… But they're not making it easy on me. None of them are taking this war very seriously."

"Mistress and her friends have never seen hardship," Marty gave his opinion. "Marty still remembers the bloody streets… Wizards are capable of much evil when put to task."

"I've given them almost three weeks to think on their futures, but none of them have gotten back to me except for Theo," Ron sat down, his hands rubbing his neck. "We're in such deep shit… And I'm the only prick who's looking for a shovel. The rest of them are just miring themselves in the shit."

"Perhaps Master should shatter their illusions?" Marty asked.

"How?" Ron asked.

"Master must show them what they can't imagine for themselves," Marty replied. Okay…

"What they can't imagine for themselves?" Ron clicked his tongue. "Death?"

"The mention of Death will surely stir them into action," Marty smiled. Evil little bugger.

"Well, Death and I are on a break," Ron sighed out. If that cunt is responsible for this mess, then my boot will find his arse.

"Marty does not understand Master sometimes," Marty chuckled. "Master says some very odd things." Figures…

"By the way, Marty," Ron started. "Remember that Basilisk skin? We had like thirty feet of it, right?"

"Yes, Master," Marty beamed.

"I want a new glove made out of the Basilisk skin," Ron said. "Oh, and let's pad my suits with it too."

"A most excellent choice, Master!" Marty nodded his agreement. "Marty tested out dozens of Spells against the Basilisk skin, and no Spell left a scratch! It is the perfect armor!" We should've done this ages ago.

"All right," Ron smiled as he stood up. "You go and get started on that, and I'll keep building up our pile. I want this done as soon as possible."

"Should Marty pad the tuxedo as well?" Marty asked. "Master's disguise must be strengthened at once." Ugh… He really like that disguise, doesn't he?

"Sure, Marty…" Ron said. "If there's skin left over…"

Tracey Davis' POV

Thursday 21st January, 1994 (The Common Room – Evening)

"Hello," Ron sat down to her right, and Tracey pulled out her earphones.

"Hi, Ron," she smiled widely. "You're back from your session… How was it?"

"Oh, it was fine," Ron shrugged, a smile on his face. "I whined about everything, and Madam Pomfrey pretended to listen. Very therapeutic."

"You should take it seriously," Tracey chuckled. "I wish I had someone to whine to."

"I can put in a good word for you," Ron scooted closer to her. What's he up to?

"Trying to cuddle?" Tracey smirked. "Is Daphne too busy to pay you any attention?"

"Ouch," Ron feigned hurt, a rogue smirk on his face. "You cut too deep… But yes… Daphne is studying with the second years. Her delegate duties are more important than me."

"Poor little Ron," Tracey teased. "What can Tracey do to make you feel better?"

"A few favors," Ron replied. Saw that coming a mile away.

"What do I get in return?" Tracey leaned against his shoulder.

"My gratitude, for one," Ron started.

"I can't buy anything with gratitude," Tracey sniggered. "Next?"

"I need help, Trace," Ron said rather seriously, and Tracey shifted in order to see his face. Oh… He got serious. "Look, I'll pay you back with an equal amount of favors. Is that fair?"

"What's the matter?" Tracey asked.

"I'm trying to bring a lot of people together," Ron explained. "And I'm a bit overwhelmed… You remember what we talked about at the end of the Break?"

Tracey shot quick looks around herself. Is he referring to the war? Tracey gave a nod, and Ron leaned closer to her ear.

"I want us to stick together, but I feel like a lot of you aren't really taking this threat seriously," Ron whispered.

"Ron, that's not true…" Tracey said.

"Really? When was the last time you gave this any real thought?" Ron asked. Um… I suppose it's been a while… "I don't need much, Trace. Just some support every now and then."

"Support with what?" Tracey asked.

"Malfoy, Pansy, Millie, Blaise, and Theo," Ron replied. "Malfoy is still feeling like an outsider, Pansy's parents are scum, Millie's parents are scum in pretty disguises, Blaise's mother is something else entirely, and Theo plans to follow his father down the shitter." Woah…

"Um… Ron… This is a lot," Tracey muttered. "Shouldn't you take this to Daphne? Or Blaise? They usually help you with this stuff, right?"

"Trace… I can't count on Daphne for this," Ron pleaded, making Tracey's stomach tighten from guilt. "You and I grew up normal, you know? We didn't grow up in Mansions and Ballrooms… Plus, I remember your reaction at the Burrow. You were terrified for your parents. They actually taught you a little about the war, didn't they?"

"They did…" Tracey whispered. But I hate thinking about it. I don't want to imagine my father living in a dungeon cell.

"Just help me reach out to them," Ron requested. "You get along with everyone, including Malfoy. I could really use that right now." Oh…

"Ron, why don't we just let the parents handle this?" Tracey asked.

"We can't just sit around and do nothing," Ron replied. "Do you honestly think that your father cares about Pansy Parkinson like you do?"

"Of course not," Tracey replied.

"Then you see my point?" Ron asked, a hopeful spark in his eyes.

"I do," Tracey sighed out. "So what? You just want me to try and urge the others along?"

"That, or you can just help me make sure that they're all happy," Ron smiled gratefully. "Right now, Pansy could definitely use her friends."

"Then I'll get onto it," Tracey smiled at him. "Because you asked so nicely."

"Thanks, Tracey," Ron chuckled weakly, and then he kissed her cheek. "You're the best, and I'll definitely pay you back."

Ron then got out of the seat.

"Oh… Can you also reach out to Ginny?" Ron suddenly asked.

"What?" Tracey blinked. "Ron… I don't know about that. I don't really like your sister-"

"I know…" Ron said. "You two have a bit of a past, and neither of you seem to like each other. However, I reckon that you two can become fast friends. Remember how quickly you and I clicked? You're not like the others. You're different, like Ginny and me."

"And you want me to show her that side of me," Tracey figured. Daphne mentioned that Ron wanted to show his sister a better side of us. Well, maybe she needs to show us her better side first.

"Please?" Ron asked. Agh! Don't give me that look!

"Fine…" Tracey agreed. "But only because you're the person asking, Ron… I'm doing this for you, not Ginevra Weasley." Theo's right… I'm way too soft.

Friday 22nd January, 1994 (The Black Lake – Early Morning)

Maybe it was because she couldn't really say no to Ron, or maybe it was the fact that Ron could really use a break, but Tracey had decided to approach Ginevra the very next day.

"You're in better shape than me," Tracey said in a friendly tone, and Ginevra turned around tensely. "You never do less than eight laps. It kind of reminds me of Ron."

"Reminds you of Ron?" Ginevra asked, a hint of awkwardness in her voice. "I thought that you only recently joined."

"Every now and then, I'd sneak down here to watch him go," Tracey shrugged. "He sure can run, huh?"

"Right…" Ginevra was definitely feeling awkward now. "I'm finished for the day, so I'm going to head off-"

"Do a lap with me," Tracey said.

"Why?" Ginevra asked. "I've already done nine-"

"I want to get to know you," Tracey came out and said it. "You were really sweet when we first met, and I want to see if that's still the case."

Ginevra was the picture of awkward reluctance, but after a little waiting, Tracey got what she wanted.

"We can walk it," Tracey offered. "I ran almost seven today."

"Greengrass stopped after five," Ginevra said. "Why didn't you?"

"I don't have massive tits weighing me down," Tracey replied. Let's see how she took that.

Ginevra didn't seem phased in the slightest, and if anything, she had taken Tracey quite seriously. Haha, yes! I like that! Time for the next test.

"Do you like music?" Tracey asked.

"Um… Sure," Ginevra replied. "Do you listen to the Weird Sisters?"

"No, they're too sappy for my taste," Tracey replied. "I prefer AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd… Muggle musicians, I mean."

"Oh, you're Half-Blood," Ginevra remembered. "Your mum showed you Muggle music?"

"She did," Tracey replied. "Want to have a listen?"

"Um… Right now?" Ginevra blinked. "We're out in the middle of nowhere."

"Watch out!" Ron ran past them, making them both jump a little.

"Ugh! Stop that!" Ginevra snapped, and Ron shot a smug smirk back before running off. They seem to be getting along well.

"Here," Tracey pulled out her Walkman.

"Is that a Muggle device?" Ginevra asked. "It plays music?"

"It's called a Walkman," Tracey said, and then she showed the younger witch her earphones. "And these are earphones. The sound comes out of these after you plug them in."

Tracey showed Ginevra the steps slowly, and for the most part, Ginevra looked just as awed as her friends had been.

"Dad would love this," Ginevra muttered under her breath.

"Your brother said the same thing," Tracey remembered. "Here, put this in your ear, and I'll blow your mind."

Ginevra put the earphone in her right ear, and Tracey put the other one in her left ear. Now, let's find her taste in music. After that, she and I can have an honest conversation without any awkwardness getting in the way.

Twenty Minutes Later

"So? What did you think?" Tracey asked.

"How does the sound come out of this?" Ginevra asked, eyeballing her earphone with a suspicious look. That's her reaction to AC/DC?

"I have no idea," Tracey replied. "Technology isn't really an interest of mine. I just enjoy using it." I wish I had a robot… Maybe something like R2-D2. He could spend all day doing my chores, and I could just relax by a fire.

"This is like Magic," Ginevra muttered. "A wizard would need a Spell for something like this."

"Muggle technology has come a very long way," Tracey said. The others refuse to believe that Muggles have reached the moon. It's pretty funny, but also pretty sad. I think that being able to use Magic has made wizards and witches a little too complacent.

"My dad would like you," Ginevra handed her earphone over. "If he saw this 'Walkman', he'd blast music all day long." Mr. Weasley is kind of adorable.

"Well, since I've obviously won your father's approval, I think it's time that we talked," Tracey said.

"What do we need to talk about?" Ginevra kept her eyes forward.

"I yelled at you," Tracey replied calmly, she wasn't ashamed of snapping at the younger witch. "You were being horrible to your brother, and I couldn't stand it. So, I said something hurtful to shut the exchange down, but I was a little too overzealous. I will admit fault for that. I'm sorry."

Ginevra said nothing, but it was clear that she didn't want to be here. She doesn't look angry anymore… She's just really quiet and miserable. Maybe she's really learned her lesson?

"Did I really hurt Ron's feelings?" Ginevra asked after a bit of silence.

"You did more than that," Tracey replied, her eyes following Ron as he finished up his laps. Magnificent! I need to get Pansy out here. "After you were finished, he started spiraling… He had to be given a Calming Draught, which turned him cold and cruel for the rest of the day. He tortured Draco that day, did you know that?"

"Tortured?" Ginevra went a bit pale.

"Draco used to have longer hair, remember?" Tracey asked. "Well, Ron had it cut off because Draco looked like his father. And then, he forced Draco to eat until he physically couldn't anymore. Now, Draco can be a massive tosser, but even he was near tears by the end of the night. Ron only stopped because we decided to distract him, but he just ended up torturing us as well."

"This doesn't sound like Ron…" Ginevra said, and then she finally looked at Tracey. "Are you lying about my brother?" Oh, she's defensive? Good. She shouldn't just buy this about her brother without putting up a fight.

"I'm showing you another side of us," Tracey stopped them, her left hand gently wrapped around Ginevra's elbow. "Look, I'm not exactly like my friends. I'm not going to use overwhelming cunning to drive a lesson into your head… I'm just going to tell you the truth, because personally, that's what I think you need."

"And the truth is that Ron is a bully?" Ginevra looked a bit lost.

"The truth is that your brother is a terrifying individual, and when people cross him, they get hurt," Tracey replied. "But he is also kind. He is noble, hardworking, fair, intelligent, funny, and best of all, loyal. If you weren't his sister, you'd already be regretting everything you did to him. Instead, Ron excuses all of your shortcomings and blames himself for not being 'good enough'. I hate seeing him like that… We all do."

Tracey then drew in a deep breath.

"I know you hit him," Tracey said, and Ginevra went a little wide-eyed. "I know that you hit him so hard that you broke skin. I know that after you had satisfied yourself, it was my friend, Theo, who had to try and comfort Ron."

"Comfort…?"

"His beloved little sister hit him," Tracey said calmly. "And on the same day that he bought her a forty Galleon dress. He was completely gutted, and once again, he had to be given the damn Calming Draught by his friends. While you went about with your day, pleased with making your own brother bleed, Daphne had to deal with Ron who wasn't acting like Ron… She didn't deserve that."

"Sorry…" Ginevra muttered, a subdued look on her face. Damn, she looks like a smaller, cuter version of Ron… I should wrap this up before I end up forgiving her outright as well.

"What you do affects other people, Ginevra," Tracey said. "What happened to you last year… I'm really sorry. No one deserves that, especially not a first year. I can't even fully imagine just how horrible it was, but saying that, your trauma doesn't give you a free pass. Everyone has problems, but the way you deal with those problems is what defines you. Your big brother is the one who taught me that." Ron does love his speeches, and sometimes, he makes really grand ones.

Tracey let go of Ginevra's elbow, her eyes darting towards Ron again. He's watching… Damn, that makes me kind of nervous.

"If you can promise me that you won't hurt Ron again, then I'll give you a fair chance," Tracey gave her terms. "He's told us so many stories about you, and I'd love to be that Ginevra's friend. The Ginevra who started sneaking out at the age of six just to fly her brothers' brooms-"

"They never let me play with them," Ginevra blurted out. "Sorry… I interrupted you…" Don't worry; I'm finished with my 'tough love'. I just need to say one more thing.

"Ron thinks the World of you," Tracey said, her eyes scanning Ginevra's slump shoulders. "Don't use that to hurt him."

"I won't…" Ginevra promised, and Tracey gave a nod.

"Then let's stop this serious talk before I start sounding like Daphne," Tracey said. "I'm supposed to be the witty, eccentric one, after all."

"What?" Ginevra blinked.

"Doesn't matter," Tracey smiled. "I was just trying to be funny… Anyway, since I've given my thoughts, I'd like to have some of yours."

"Mine?" Ginevra asked nervously.

"Don't you have something to say about all of this?" Tracey asked. "About Ron?"

"Um… No…" Ginevra replied. No?

"Why not?" Tracey asked, and Ginevra kicked a pebble away.

"I just want to my brother back…" Ginevra spoke to the floor. My heart! It'll explode at this rate!

"He's not perfect," Tracey reminded Ginevra.

"Neither am I," Ginevra shrugged, her eyes fixed on the ground. "Everyone's got problems, right…?" Is she even talking to me now? "I won't blame him for mine again."

"If you're there for him, then we'll be there for you," Tracey promised. "All of us."

"Do… Do you all love my brother?" Ginevra asked weakly. What?

"I can't really deny that, so yeah… I do love him," Tracey replied, and Ginevra shot her an odd look. "Do you love your brother?"

"Of course," Ginevra replied.

"He's not as tough as he looks, so sometimes, you need to show him that you love him," Tracey shot another look at Ron, and he gave her a little wave. No matter what happens, he'll never stop looking out for her. Even a blind person could see that. "Let's go back to the others, yeah? You look like you're starting to get cold."

Ginevra gave a nod, and then she began heading back. Tracey followed after Ginevra quietly; she still planned to keep an eye on the younger witch. I don't want to see Ron hurt again, but I reckon that he'll be safe when it comes to Ginevra. From what I've seen, she looks terribly guilty about everything that's gone wrong in her life. Even the things that weren't her fault. I should try and be softer around her. At least for now.

Lucius Malfoy's POV

Friday 22nd January, 1994 (Malfoy Manor – Evening)

"She is staying in the outskirts of Rome," Tanner reported.

"Did you see her?" Lucius looked up from his paper.

"I never lost her, my Lord," Tanner replied. "I have thirty wands placed near her villa already. As soon as you give the word, I will join my men and carry out the hit."

"Tell me more about her," Lucius said.

"She seemed calm," Tanner replied. "She failed to notice that she was being followed, and my men have seen her spending her nights with various lovers."

"Her guard is down," Lucius smiled a little. "Foolish hag." She longs to sit on the Dark Lord's table, but this is what she is capable of? Did the Dark Lord foresee how foolish she really is? Is that why he never acknowledged her? "Everything is in place, then… Tomorrow, everything changes."

"Shall I return to Rome, my Lord?" Tanner asked.

"Not yet," Lucius stood up. "I need you to order your men to find this 'Talbot' already. Make them search the whole night if that's what it takes." How can one man continue to elude a group of trained assassins?

"Very well," Tanner said, he had never been one to refuse his clients. "You will, however, be charged extra for this."

"Yes, I know how your 'brotherhood' works," Lucius said coldly. "Go. Get your men to turn over every rock. If anything happens to Ronald Weasley, I will have your head first."

Tanner gave a bow, and then he was gone. Why do all the best killers act like the cheapest of whores? Lucius shook his head clear; he couldn't afford to be distracted right now. The Dark Lord was drawn away because of his plans to bring the loyalists back, and that had put a lot of stress on Lucius' mind. The loyalists hated him above all the rest, especially after Bellatrix had accused him of trying to usurp the Dark Lord's throne. I must secure my position before the loyalists come back. My life depends on it. My Family's lives depend on it. There can be no more mistakes from here on.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: And there it is! Again, sorry for the long wait... I can't promise that it won't happen again, but I'll try to limit that shit.

Now, about the subreddit and discord idea... I like it! Give me a few days, and I'll try and set it all up! For now, though, I'm keen for the Weekend!