Fate

by TheTrueSpartan

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

120. Chapter 120 - Alone

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Chapter 120 is here! I know that was a savage cliffhanger to be left on, and I do not apologize.

I'll fucking do it again, mate!

Now, onto a more serious note: This chapter has some triggering content in it, as many characters in the story are in a dark place right now. If you read on from here, be warned.

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!

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'Seize this momentum! Push on to the task's end!' - The Ancestor from Darkest Dungeon

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Fate

Chapter 120 – Alone

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Astronomy Tower – Dead of Night)

The cold wind chilled the tears upon his cheeks; he couldn't even hear his own whimpering due to how loud his teeth were clattering. Cold and alone… That's how it ends? He kept his left hand firmly on the railing, letting his right foot dangle limply off of the edge. I just have to let go… I doubt the fall will last long.

He tried to draw in a deep breath, his final one, but the chill in the air filled his lungs, forcing him to cough out a broken sob. He had never felt so afraid before, despite sharing his mind with the Star of Madness. For the very first time, Ron's future was fully clear to him. He was going to fall, as would all hope of this Cycle being successful, and once the Entity had claimed him, eternal torture would be his reward. Even if I complete the Cycle, I'll still die and become the Entity's chew toy… There is no hope…

"Goodbye, my life…" Ron whimpered with fresh tears running down his face. "You betrayed me good…"

As his grip began to loosen, he suddenly heard footsteps, faint but getting louder, coming from behind him. There were other people up here with him. Panic seized him, and he couldn't move a muscle. His eyes were fixed on the closed door, waiting for whoever was behind it to come through.

The door began to creak open, and Ron began to hyperventilate. What the fuck was he supposed to do? He was supposed to let go, wasn't he? Then why was his grip still firmly fixed on the railing? Eternal torture… I don't want that… I don't deserve it! I've been good! I've helped people-

"Cedric, that's not funny," the chubby girl giggled.

"But you're laughing, aren't you?" Cedric chuckled pleasantly, his grey eyes looking around the top of the Astronomy Tower.

The moment they landed on him, all the mirth on Cedric's face froze. They just stared at each other, Ron's teary eyes fixed on Cedric's confused ones. He'll stop me! They'll put me under watch, and I'll be forced to live in my own failure until the Entity claims me! They'll force me to suffer even more! Ron heard Cedric's voice boom towards him, but it didn't stop him from letting go of the railing. The world became a blur of shadows and candlelight, and just as Ron felt the air begin to claim him, a strong hand latched onto his left wrist.

"RON!" Cedric yelled, Ron's weight dragging him into the railing.

Another hand clamped onto his wrist as his face hit the side of the tower, Ron could hear a girl screaming at the top of her lungs. I'm not falling?! Ron groaned as he looked up, Cedric was holding onto his wrist; leaving him to dangle off of the tower. Instinctively, Ron's eyes went downwards, and fear latched onto him again.

"Fuck!" Ron yelled, his free hand grabbing onto the ledge.

"I'm going to fall over… Don't move…" Cedric begged, his face red and his veins popping out. "Olivia… Help me… Use your wand…" No!

"Let go, you mad bastard!" Ron felt some of his rage break loose. "Let me die in peace, at least! You fucking leeches!" All of you have sucked the joy out of my life, and now, you won't even let me die?!

A thought occurred to Ron as the girl named Olivia ran into sight, he could use his Wandless Magic to free himself. Which Spell, though?

"Locomotor!" Olivia chanted, her trembling wand aimed at Ron.

Cedric let out a relieved groan, though his grip didn't loosen whatsoever. Ron's time was short, but he knew that he could pull this off. He'd use Incendio to burn Cedric's hands, and then he'd use Lumos Solem to blast Olivia away. Without her, the Locomotion Charm would become undone, and he'd fall to his freedom. What freedom? There is no freedom for me… And… And I don't want to hurt them. They're just trying to help.

Cedric pulled and pulled, while Olivia screamed for help at the top of her lungs. It was over… He had fucked up his own suicide attempt as well, which was a new low for him. Cedric pulled Ron over the railing, though he made sure to keep his grip on the redhead's wrist. Olivia's Charm suddenly wore off, and Ron landed on his back with a dull thud.

He didn't bother moving, his bloodshot eyes fixed on the ceiling of the Astronomy Tower.

He felt sapped of all life… As if only the husk of Ronald Weasley had been pulled over the railing.

"Ron, can you hear me?" Cedric whispered comfortingly, his hands now holding Ron's. "Please, say something. Are you hurt?"

"Why did you do this…?" Ron muttered hoarsely, his mind overwhelmed by a torrent of different emotions.

He felt powerless, confused, happy, sad, lost, and found… But most of all, he felt alone… No one could understand his pain, not even Professor Snape and the Headmaster. He was completely alone, and would continue being alone for as long as he lived.

"Is he all right?" Olivia squeaked, she was looking over Cedric's shoulder. No, I'm not. I'm just so tired, and I can't take it anymore.

Ron knew what was going to happen now… He was going to lose his freedom. His mother and father were going to find out, and they were going to lock him away until he died at the hands of the Entity for trying to end the Cycle. There's still time, Ron… You can easily overpower them both. He turned his head upwards to look at the railing, his eyes welling up again. And yet, there's no real escape for me, is there? I'll never get to be happy… I'll die young, and then, I'll suffer forever… My only crime being that I lived to see the age of eight.

---

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Headmaster's Office – Dead of Night)

Ron sat in his usual chair, a blanket wrapped tightly around him. Professor Sprout had summoned some hot chocolate for him, but the sight of it turned his stomach.

He had failed to take his own life…

How pathetic was that?

How could someone fuck up taking one small step forward? Only me… The biggest chump in Hogwarts…

Everything that had happened since he was found felt like a really vivid dream now. He was there, but at the same time, he wasn't…

He had been taken to Professor Snape's quarters by Cedric and Olivia, both of them holding his hands and dragging him behind them. Even then, Ron had thought about getting rid of them so he could try to end his own life again.

He could've done it…

Easily…

And yet, all he could manage was to hold onto their hands more tightly… By the time they had reached Professor Snape's quarters, Ron was a trembling and sobbing mess. He had felt even more scared than he had atop the Astronomy Tower, completely unsure of what was going to happen next.

Professor Snape, much to his credit, had taken the news rather well, though he never once looked in Ron's direction. The Potions Master had ordered the prefects to return to their dormitories, and to never speak a word of this to any other student. Cedric had initially refused to just walk away, which had made Ron feel a little better, but Snape's cold gaze and harsh tone had ended Cedric and Olivia's involvement. They had left, promising to keep Ron's secret to themselves, but not before they both shot him sorry looks.

That's where everything became hazy…

One minute, he was staring at the floor while Snape just stood there quietly, and then, he was sitting in the Headmaster's office with Madam Pomfrey and the Heads of Houses. Madam Pomfrey had tried to talk to him, but he could only manage tired sobs and deflective answers. He just wanted to be left alone, but he also knew that he was never going to be 'alone' again. His parents would be told of this, and they were going to lose their fucking minds.

Even now, he could hear the Heads of Houses whispering to each other in the background, no doubt discussing what to do about the suicidal prodigy. Madam Pomfrey was keeping her eyes on him, but she no longer attempted to speak to him. After all, he would just ignore her like he had been all night.

The fireplace suddenly roared to life, and all noise within the office ceased to exist. Ron finally looked away from his cold beverage, his eyes landing on the tired and confused Headmaster. The old man looked around the office, his eyes stopping on Ron. He's already figured it out, hasn't he?

Ron looked back to his unfinished drink; he could feel the Headmaster losing all respect for him. It fucking hurt, but he knew he deserved it. He knew that he was being selfish, and that by ending his own life, he was also ending theirs. A part of him wanted to argue the fact that he had earned the right to be selfish for once, but deep down, he hated himself more than anyone else ever could.

He was a failure, and he was so tired…

---

Albus Dumbledore's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Headmaster's Office – Dead of Night)

He had nearly lost another student tonight…

Ronald had stayed true to his word, opting to end the Cycle prematurely rather than fighting on. Albus didn't really blame the boy… How could he? Ronald's life made even a man like Albus feel disheartened, so how was a thirteen year old supposed to put up with it? And yet, a very small part of Albus was disappointed beyond words… Ronald's strength had become a never-ending lake of inspiration for Albus in recent months, but now, the lake stood completely dry.

He could see it in the boy's eyes… There was no life behind them, nor was there a desire for one. Ronald Weasley had finally broken down, and he was no longer willing to put himself back together. Albus truly feared for the future now, what would Severus and he do without Ronald's visions guiding them forward? Will we lose yet again? What happens if the Entity deems this Cycle to be a failure due to Ronald's current state? Will we all simply stop existing? The thought sent a shiver of dread up his spine.

"What strikes me as odd is the fact that you ordered every prefect to do rounds all night," Minerva said to Severus, while Albus kept his eyes on Ronald's back. He looks so small. "Did you know about Ronald's intentions?"

"I didn't know, but I suspected," Severus told the other Heads. "The boy came back to Hogwarts out of the blue, and when I questioned his visit, he told me that he was only here for the night. He didn't even intend to have breakfast with us in the morning."

"You've outdone yourself, Severus," Pomona sniffled and smiled proudly, but Severus only showed cold indifference in response. "To think that we could have lost another child tonight…"

"Well done, my friend," Filius praised Severus.

"What are we going to do about him?" Severus asked Albus, ignoring the unwelcome praise.

"Leave me with him," Albus replied, finally looking away from the boy's back. "I will speak to him, and then deliver him to his parents."

"And what of Poppy?" Minerva asked.

"She isn't getting through to him, Headmaster," Filius added quickly.

"I will send her to the Burrow," Albus said, he suddenly felt even more exhausted. Arthur and Molly will be heartbroken… "She will explain the situation to Arthur and Molly before I arrive with Ronald."

"Isn't there anything that we can do to help?" Pomona asked. "I don't feel right leaving him like this, Headmaster…"

"I need all of you to go check on the students," Albus said, an odd fear taking shape within his mind. "Make sure that they're all safe and asleep."

The Heads exchanged looks, but none of them argued against the strange order.

"We'll be back soon, Albus," Minerva was the first to head towards the door, followed by Pomona and then Filius.

"Not you, Severus," Albus said, stopping Severus from leaving. "I need you to tell me everything before you check on the Slytherins."

"There's not much to tell," Severus said coldly. "The boy was acting off, and he has threatened to commit suicide before. I couldn't spend the entire night searching the castle for him, nor could the other Heads, so I deployed every prefect near key locations. The Astronomy Tower, the Black Lake, the Quidditch Pitch, the wooden bridge, the Owlery-"

"All the places he could have used to end his own life," Albus said, and Severus gave a curt nod. "And what if he had used his wand to cut his own wrists?" What would you have done then, Severus?

"I did not think-"

"Exactly," Albus glared into Severus' eye, causing the tall man to freeze in his spot. "You didn't think."

"Al… Albus…" Severus just stared at him.

"You had a hunch that he planned to end his own life, and you still allowed him to leave your sight?" Albus asked, barely keeping his tone in check. "How could you be so reckless, Severus? What if the prefects hadn't found him?"

"Did you want me to hogtie him on a hunch?" Severus suddenly adorned a colder look.

"His death would have ended this Cycle," Albus whispered, his eyes unblinking. "Everything that we have fought for would be wiped out of existence-"

"You think I don't know that?" Severus asked dangerously. "You think me a fool, Albus?"

Albus and Severus both went silent, and Albus couldn't help but feel a little guilty for letting his emotions get the better of him. He is not to blame for this, nor does he deserve to be treated so poorly. He's the only reason why Ronald is still among us.

"Forgive me, Severus," Albus sighed out. "I have had a long and tiring journey, and I forget myself because of the situation we're in."

"Just don't take your anger and disappointment out on the boy," Severus turned to leave.

"Anger and disappointment?" Albus repeated, that's exactly what he felt deep down. "You feel it too, then?"

"You were right to place your bets on Potter," Severus said distantly, and then he limped off without another word.

Albus looked back to Ronald, his heart aching because of the boy's selfish actions. I must not show it… Ronald is extremely observant, and my disappointment would cause him even more pain.

"Poppy, might I have a word with you?" Albus asked.

---

Ten Minutes Later

Once Poppy had been dispatched, Albus had taken a seat next to Ronald. They had then sat in silence for some time, mostly because Albus wanted Ronald to drop his guard.

"You're angry with me, aren't you?" Ronald finally muttered. "You glared at Professor Snape, and you never look at anyone like that." Does this boy have eyes in the back of his head? "This isn't his fault. I chose to go up there. Don't fight with him on my behalf."

"Why did you do this, my boy?" Albus asked, unable to hide his worry.

"Tracey…" Ronald swallowed thickly, his droopy eyes fixed on the floor. "I killed her…"

"How can you possibly blame yourself for this?" Albus asked.

"I lost sight of my goals," Ronald explained. "Dealing with the French? How did that help me with my mission? Trying to remake the image of my Family? Who was I trying to impress? I reached too far, and this is my punishment."

"The friends and allies that you've made through those experiences will aid you in the coming days," Albus said.

"That became a second priority to me," Ronald mumbled shamefully. "I wanted more… I wanted to be happy. I wanted to be admired, just like my brothers are. I wanted the world to think that I was brilliant. I began to love that my schoolmates called me a prodigy. I even went after a girl, dragging her down with my pathetic life." Ronald then chuckled mirthlessly. "This is what happens when you pretend to be someone that you're not. You end up at the bottom of the fucking ocean. All alone…"

"You blame yourself for your friend's current state, and yet, you move to end the Cycle?" Albus asked. "Why?"

"Because I lost…" Ronald replied.

"So it was pure selfishness that drove you," Albus felt his heart ache. How could you do this, Ronald?

"You should forget about me," Ronald stood up, shedding his blanket. What is he wearing? A black suit? "I don't deserve your trust anymore. I'm sorry if I hurt you by doing this. I won't try it again."

Albus watched quietly as Ronald took small steps towards the fireplace, his body slouched forward and his head hanging low. Albus easily noticed Ronald's heaving lungs, the boy was crying again. It was a truly gut-wrenching sight, to see a young man so broken down by the world.

"Ronald, wait," Albus stood up and followed after him. "I will escort you home."

"I'm not going to run away…" Ronald coughed out. "I just want to see my mum…" Molly? Or Pandora?

"I'll prepare the floo for the Burrow," Albus said, and Ronald stopped in his spot.

"The Burrow…" Ronald's breath hitched. "Right…"

Albus walked past Ronald, and prepared the floo without haste. Ronald's broken spirit was threatening to crush his own.

"Come, let's get you home," Albus said. Molly and Arthur should be in the living room by now.

Ronald whimpered and rubbed his eyes as he stepped through the fireplace, and Albus waited a few moments before following after him. As soon as he entered the Burrow, he came upon the sight of Molly and Arthur hugging their son. Molly was sobbing, her distress more than evident, while Arthur looked to be in shock, his eyes distant and his mouth slightly parted. William and Poppy stood in the corner, both of them watching the reunion with teary eyes.

"Arthur… Molly…" Albus approached the couple. "Forgive me for intruding so late into the night, but this could not be delayed."

"No… Thank you for bringing him home…" Arthur cleared his throat, breaking free of his shock. "Poppy's told us everything… Is Snape with you? I'd like to thank him in person. He… He saw what the boy's own father couldn't…"

Ronald visibly tensed at that, but he didn't say anything.

"Let's not dwell on what has happened," Albus suggested. "Let's instead focus on what we can do in the coming days."

"Albus is right," Poppy stepped forward. "I would advise you to keep him within sight for the foreseeable future."

"I won't try it again…" Ronald sniffled.

"I wish we could believe that, son…" Arthur said, his eyes fixed on Poppy. "What else do we need to do? Do we hide the knives? Do we seal all the windows on the higher floors? Do we store away the flying brooms?" Arthur… What are you saying?

Poppy shot a quick look at Albus before replying.

"Just keep him in sight, Arthur," Poppy said. "There's no need to change your lives."

"Ron should sleep in my room, then," William spoke up. "Mum can watch him during the day, and dad can take over in the evening."

"If there is anything that you need, don't be afraid to ask for it," Albus said. "Ronald can continue taking time away from Hogwarts, I can send you his classwork through owl."

"And my office is always open to him," Poppy added. "Come anytime, Ron, I will put my other duties on hold if I must."

"I'll make sure that he does," William said, while Arthur and Molly moved Ron towards the couches. "Thank you for bringing him home."

Albus gave William a weak smile, and then he turned to leave. It's all up to his parents now. I want to believe Ronald, but he's left us all no choice… He must be watched over, at least for the time being.

---

William Weasley's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Dead of Night)

Ron sat on the corner of his conjured bed, his elbows resting on his knees. His unblinking eyes were fixed on the floor; his mind was no doubt racing through a million thoughts.

Bill was no different… He too was possessed by a restless mind. He had so many questions for his little brother. A small part of him even wanted to start yelling at Ron for hurting their parents in such a terrible manner.

And yet, he couldn't bring himself to speak. He was pretending to be busy around the room, knowing full well that his sharp brother had seen through his act a long time ago. Just say something, Bill… Anything!

"Are you comfortable?" Bill asked gently, suddenly moving in front of Ron. "I can get you another blanket." Why did you do it, Ron? Was it all because of what happened to Tracey?

"I'm comfortable…" Ron replied, his gaze moving towards his own feet.

"Do you want more milk?" Bill asked. I know that you're in pain, but how could you do this to mum and dad? What happens when our siblings find out about this? Poor Ginny and Luna will be heartbroken beyond healing. And Pandora… Merlin, she's so late into her pregnancy… What will happen to her and her child when she finds out?

"No, thank you…" Ron sniffled, his hands wiping his eyes. "Please… Stop staring at me… I'm sorry…"

For a brief moment, Bill's eyes followed Ron's scarred hand. Don't do that, Bill!

"Um… Right… If you need anything, just wake me up, all right?" Bill said, looking back at Ron's pale face. "I won't get upset, I promise."

"Okay…" Ron barely made a sound.

Bill once again felt his head spin; he was so overwhelmed by all of this. He had gone from sleeping peacefully to being more awake than ever before. Never in his life had he imagined being involved in such a stressful situation, and Gods help him, he never wanted to feel this way again. I can't even imagine what Ron's feeling right now… Fuck… I just need to be there for him. I can't let my own feelings get in the way of his recovery.

Without a word, Bill moved over to his own bed. He tucked himself into his blanket, and then he turned onto his side in order to face Ron. I'll keep my eyes on him tonight… I can't fall asleep until he does.

---

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Early Morning)

Bill finished dressing for the day, his emerald cufflinks from Ron shining with a polished gleam. Of all his belongings, these cufflinks were particularly special to him. Ron had no doubt worked his arse off to buy them just for Bill, and that thought made the cufflinks even more gorgeous in his eyes. How much stress did he endure just to get these for me, I wonder. I hope I never gave him a reason to go up there in order to…

Bill shook his head clear; he didn't want to think about this before having his morning coffee. He looked in the mirror quickly, making sure that everything was in place. Once he was ready to move on with his day, he looked towards the sleeping Ron. He fell asleep so quickly last night. He went from sobbing quietly in the dark to whimpering in his sleep within minutes.

"Goodbye, Ron," Bill leaned down and kissed the side of his brother's head, causing Ron to shift a little in his sleep. "I'll do my best to come home early today." Griphook picked the worst time to choose me for the weekend shifts.

Bill grabbed his briefcase, and headed towards the door. He shot one last look at Ron, his eyes examining Ron's curled up posture. Griphook owes me a favor, and I think I'll cash it in for a few days off. This way, I can help mum keep her eyes on Ron. He left the room and headed downstairs, he could smell his mother's cooking already. For the first time in his life, he wasn't glad to smell her breakfasts. He had been hoping that she was still resting, but like always, she had woken up at the crack of dawn to cook and clean for her Family.

Bill stepped into the kitchen, his eyes darting straight towards the stove. Molly was standing with her back to him, but he could tell by her movements that she was clearing her eyes. She's definitely been crying all morning.

"You're up…" came Charlie's voice, and Bill suddenly realized that Charlie was sitting by the window. He looks like shit rolled over… Mum must've told him.

"I have to get to work…" Bill said a little awkwardly.

"Oh…" Molly turned around, her face puffy from crying. "I'll make you something, Bill… Just sit down, please…"

Bill gave a nod before taking his usual seat, his sorry eyes following his mother as she focused on making him some food and coffee. He was just about to cave in and offer to help when Charlie pulled up a chair next to him.

"What the fuck, Bill…?" Charlie whispered in a worried voice. "I can't fucking go back to Romania now… I'm needed here."

"Don't you have a shift today?" Bill whispered back. "You should already be on your way, Charlie…"

"Fuck my shift," Charlie frowned a bit. "Ronnie needs us now more than ever."

"I… I don't know about that…" Bill sighed out.

"What?" Charlie blinked.

"He was different last night," Bill tried to explain. "He wasn't all there… He just looked so resigned. It fucking tore me up to see him look like that, but I don't think we can do much about it."

"Horseshit," Charlie clicked his tongue. "I'll drag him back to his senses myself-"

"What? You'll beat him again?" Bill asked, a hint of anger in his voice. When will you finally grow up, Charlie? I can't hold your hand forever.

Charlie's mouth closed at that, deep guilt flashing across his face.

"Go back to Romania, and then try to get more time off," Bill advised. "Don't lose your job needlessly, Charlie, you'll only hurt mum and dad even more."

"I… Fuck…" Charlie muttered. "You're right… Sorry, Bill…"

"It's all right," Bill relaxed a little, his hand giving Charlie's shoulder a squeeze. "Just don't do anything to make this worse, all right? Listen to mum and dad, and go back to work when it's time."

"I'll be back as soon as I'm able," Charlie promised. "And then, we'll try to bring Ronnie back, yeah?" Ronnie… It's just Ron now, isn't it?

"Mum plans to send him to Madam Pomfrey as often as she can," Bill started. "We should wait and observe the situation for the moment."

"Is it smart to be so cautious right now?" Charlie asked.

"I don't want to give him another reason, that's all," Bill replied, and Charlie gave him an understanding look. "Look… He's always been the sensitive one, and that's no secret. You and I have hurt him before by being neglectful of him whenever he was in trouble; so let's not do that this time. Let's try to learn more about his reasons, and then try to help him from there. Pay attention to him, you know?"

"Yeah, you're right," Charlie slowly began nodding.

"Here you go, Bill…" Molly walked over, placing the coffee and eggs in front of him.

"Thanks, mum," Bill said, but she had already drifted off towards her stove. I definitely need to call in that favor with Griphook.

---

Theodore Nott's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Morning)

"Still nothing?" Blaise asked as he came out of the bathroom.

"No…" Theo replied. Where are you, father? Why won't you reply to any of my letters?

"Same on my end…" Blaise sighed out. "It's like our parents have disappeared off of the face of the Earth."

"That, or they're in hiding after what they did to Tracey," Theo muttered under his breath, but Blaise managed to overhear him.

With every passing day, Theo could feel himself becoming more and more bitter about everything. He was smart enough to realize that he had felt like this only once before, but he was too weak to resist the pull of his anger. If Violet fucking Parkinson doesn't reply to Pansy before Monday, I'm going to find her myself.

"Are you coming?" Blaise called from near the stairs.

"Did you seriously just walk off mid-conversation?" Theo clicked his tongue.

"You're the one who zoned out on me," Blaise reminded him. "C'mon… Let's have some breakfast, and then wait for Ron to come back. We're all supposed to return to Hogwarts on Monday, and I really think that he needs to go see Tracey at least once before we go back."

"He's just trying to avoid how much this hurts," Theo sighed out as they began heading downstairs. "Is it really wise to force him to go there? He doesn't need to see her like that, Blaise."

"I'm scared that he does," Blaise said cryptically. What?

"Would you mind explaining that to me?" Theo asked. "I'm not as smart as you."

"Ron is constantly talking about how important it is that we all stick together," Blaise started. "And yet, the moment one of us is in danger, he disappears… Something just doesn't fit, Theo… I didn't expect Ron to just walk away with his tail tucked between his legs."

"Give him a fucking break," Theo started. "He might seem like a monster, but I assure you, he's just as human as you and me."

"Yes, but he's not behaving like himself, which means that something is wrong," Blaise countered.

"Everything is wrong, Blaise," Theo said bitterly. "Tell me the one thing that has gone right during all of this."

Blaise went to say something, but he stopped when he couldn't think of a single thing that had gone their way. Yeah… That's what I thought. The whole world has gone to shit, so is it really any wonder that Ron decided to walk away for a bit? The man deserves a fucking break after all he's been through; he doesn't deserve to mourn for one of his closest friends.

The rest of the journey was made in silence, with Blaise thinking about Ron while Theo's mind traveled back to Tracey's hospital room. Merlin help him, he didn't want to go see her today… Watching her slowly fade away was even more painful than Theo could have possibly imagined. First mum, and now Trace… Am I just cursed? Theo quickly banished that thought; this wasn't his fault. This was someone else's fault, and they were going to pay dearly for this one day.

"Ron?" Blaise blinked as soon as they entered the kitchen, and their red-haired friend looked over his shoulder. He's back already?

"Hello…" Ron greeted them without looking away from his untouched plate of eggs and bacon. Merlin, he looks terrible…

From the corner of his vision, Theo spotted Molly Weasley cooking away with her back facing the boys.

"Good morning, Mrs. Weasley," Theo greeted her, and her head jerked up. Was she asleep at the stove?

"Good morning, you two…" Molly shot a quick look back, but Theo was quick enough to notice her puffy eyes. She's been crying… Why?

"Is… Is everything all right?" Theo felt his throat tighten. "It's not Tracey, is it…?"

"No, Theodore," Molly sighed out. "Please… Just take a seat. I'll fix you both some breakfast, all right?"

"Thank you, Mrs. Weasley," Blaise said, nudging Theo rather hard. Right.

"Thank you for your continued hospitality," Theo said, his breath slowly returning to him. She can still pull through, Theo… Ron managed to break out of his coma, didn't he? His injuries were a million times worse than Tracey's, but he still came back to us. She'll do it too… She has to.

"Go on, you two," Molly said faintly. "I'll be right over."

Theo and Blaise walked over to Ron, sitting down to his right.

"Are you all right, Ron?" Blaise whispered. "You look… sick…"

"Are you going to see Tracey today?" Ron asked instead of answering.

"We haven't decided yet," Theo said, and Blaise shot him a quick look. I haven't decided yet…

"You should go and see her," Blaise suggested.

"Blaise…" Theo whispered.

"It's been a week," Blaise kept his eyes on Ron. "You helped me understand that I'd regret not reaching out to Lord De Luca, Ron, and now I'm telling you that you need to go see her. It's Tracey, Ron… You have to go and see her."

"I will…" Ron said, his eyes fixed on his cold breakfast. What's the matter with him? Did something happen last night? He wasn't like this when he left. "Just not yet… I'm not ready to see her today…"

"Tomorrow, then?" Blaise pressed.

"Blaise, enough," Theo cut in. He has Chronic Stress… Stop forcing him into this. Daphne will cut off your balls and jam them up your arse if she finds out that you're pressuring him.

"You're both going back to Hogwarts on Monday, right?" Ron asked.

"We all are," Blaise replied slowly, while Theo just stared at Ron.

"Not me… I… I need more time…" Ron mumbled.

"You're not coming back with us?" Theo couldn't help but ask.

"I think I'm done with Hogwarts…" Ron told them, causing both boys to go wide-eyed. What?! He's done with Hogwarts? What's that supposed to mean? "I want to spend my final few years with my Family…"

"What the fuck has gotten into you, Ron?" Blaise whispered heatedly. "You're planning to leave Hogwarts?"

"What about the group?" Theo asked. "Mate, the girls need you… Pansy and Millie ask after you every single day, and Daphne… Every time someone enters the room, she immediately looks towards them in the hopes of seeing you. You can't just leave us so… abruptly…" Didn't you tell me to keep everyone together once you were gone?

"Here you go, Theodore," Molly suddenly entered their conversation, placing a plate of scrambled eggs and sausages in front of Theo.

"Thank you," Theo thanked her, but she didn't seem to hear him.

Her eyes were fixed on Ron, and when he slowly looked towards her, Molly's eyes welled up. What the…? She quickly put Blaise's plate down, and then hurried out of the room. The boys heard a muffled sob come out of her as she disappeared into the living room, which only added to their confusion. What the fuck was that? Both Theo and Blaise looked to Ron with furrowed brows, what had happened last night? Why was Ron back so early?

"Um… Ron-" Theo started, but the tall redhead suddenly stood up.

"I'm not feeling hungry… I'll go find a cover for this plate," Ron walked off, his posture wilting and his feet dragging.

"What the fuck?" Blaise looked towards Theo, and Theo could only shake his head in response. Something terrible has happened… I can feel it. Gods… Haven't we suffered enough?

---

Arthur Weasley's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (St. Mungo's – Midday)

He had made up an excuse in order to leave before his children had woken up; he wasn't ready to look at Ron just yet.

Truth be told, this had been a very painful week for Arthur. His worst fear had become a reality… Ron's sorting into Slytherin had turned him into an extremely ambitious young man, one who had made enemies that were willing to kill. The attempt on Ron's life had stirred old and raw feelings within Arthur, which were now amplified due to what had happened to Tracey.

He barely knew the girl, but he had wept alongside her parents when they had all first arrived at Hogwarts. Any person who was willing to risk their own life for their friend's was someone who Arthur could truly respect, and Tracey had more than earned Arthur's respect… She had earned his everlasting gratitude. If he could, he would give his own life so that Tracey could live hers. She deserves nothing less…

"Arthur?" came Sebastian's voice, and Arthur broke out of his daze.

"Sebastian," Arthur turned to face the man.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Weasley," Daphne greeted, her voice half-pleasant and half-lost.

"Daphne…" Arthur's blood froze. Ron… Did you even think about her when you climbed over that railing? "Good afternoon… How are you today?"

"Same as yesterday," Daphne replied. "And how are you, Mr. Weasley? I hope Ron's not giving you too much trouble."

Arthur had to bite his tongue in order to keep himself from apologizing to her on his youngest son's behalf… She would no doubt find out soon, and the truth would shatter her heart. She's given so much to him, and he just decided to throw it all away… Where did I go wrong with him? Is it my neglect that led to him being so troubled? Arthur nearly fell over from heartache at the thought… Why hadn't he been a better father? It's all my fault…

"Arthur?" Sebastian called. "Arthur, are you there?"

"Sorry…" Arthur cleared his throat; both Greengrasses were staring right into his eyes. She has Mary's eyes, but Sebastian's intimidating presence. "Daphne, I need to speak to your father about some Ministry business."

Daphne and Sebastian just stared at him, and then, Daphne gave an understanding nod. They both definitely saw through that…

"Please, excuse me," Daphne said respectfully, and then she left to enter Tracey's room.

The moment she was gone, Arthur felt as though a heavy weight had been lifted from his chest.

"What's happened?" Sebastian asked, a dead serious look on his face. "Is it Ron?"

"Sebastian… I need some help here," Arthur started; he couldn't afford to let his insecurities stop him. "I'm completely out of my depth, and I don't know what to do next…"

"Tell me what's wrong, and if I can help fix it, I will," Sebastian said, a hint of concern in his voice. When did we become friends?

"Ron… He…" Arthur started, his hand nervously rubbing his jaw. "Gods, Sebastian… He tried to commit suicide… last night…"

Arthur's stomach heaved, and he felt like the wind had been kicked out of his lungs. Hopelessness and sorrow filled his chest once again, but now, somewhere deep down, there was anger too.

He was angry with Ron for trying to throw away everything! He was angry with Ron because the boy had caused his own mother so much heartbreak! He was angry with Ron for putting his ambitions above people's lives! He was angry with Ron for not being a normal child!

As for Sebastian, the cold man now stood paler than ever, his eyes drifting off into space. After a few moments of grave silence, Sebastian let out a shaky breath.

"Is he hurt?" Sebastian asked, his voice barely audible.

"No…" Arthur shook his head weakly.

"Tell me everything," Sebastian said, pulling Arthur further away from everyone. Where do I even start?

"He left for Hogwarts last night," Arthur started, and Sebastian listened intently. "He said that he wanted to 'take a break' from everything-"

Arthur stopped mid-sentence. A break from everything… He all but confessed, and I didn't pay attention to him. Again.

"Arthur," Sebastian shook him lightly. "Don't stop."

"He got Pandora to convince me," Arthur restarted, a wretched feeling in his gut. "He was going to go back for one night only, and he would return in the morning."

"Gods…" Sebastian pinched the bridge of his nose. "He tricked Pandora into playing a part in his suicide attempt?"

"I… I don't know why he's done this…" Arthur gave up on trying to keep his composure at that, his pain and misery finally breaking loose. "How could I not see this, Sebastian…? I've completely failed him as a father…"

"No, Arthur…" Sebastian sighed out, his hand moving to Arthur's shoulder. "Let's… Let's talk somewhere else. I don't want my daughter to see you like this."

---

Thirty Minutes Later

"We both owe Severus Snape a great debt, then," Sebastian said, his elbows on his knees.

Sebastian had relocated them to the visitor's room, where they had quickly claimed a quiet corner. Arthur had then proceeded to tell Sebastian everything, including his own failings. He didn't know why, but he just couldn't stop… He just needed someone to listen to him.

"Ron's Potions Professor knows him better than I do," Arthur all but whispered.

"That man was able to fool the Dark Lord himself for many years, even Ron cannot outfox such a man," Sebastian said. "Arthur, you hold no blame in this."

"Don't I?" Arthur asked. "I know nothing about my youngest son… I know everything about my children, but not Ron…"

"You exaggerate-" Sebastian tried.

"I'm not exaggerating," Arthur said shamefully. "I… I have not always been…"

His mouth couldn't form the words, but his mind knew what it wanted to say.

"It's all right, Arthur," Sebastian said. "I will not break your confidence, I swear it."

Arthur looked into the man's pale eyes, and he saw only truth behind them. It was enough to give him the strength needed to break his silence.

"I never did anything for him…" Arthur admitted, a lump in his throat. "I taught all of my sons how to fly, but when it was Ron's turn, I passed the duty onto Charlie. I had just found this new Muggle trinket, one that I can't even recall now, but at the time; I wanted nothing more than to study it. But as soon as I started, he came running into my shed with a massive smile on his face. I had promised to teach him that very morning…"

"You sent him away?" Sebastian asked.

"I figured that he'd get over it," Arthur spoke to the floor. "Charlie was the best flyer amongst us, and Ron had always looked up to him. I figured that I had made the right call… I barely even spared him a glance…" Arthur then let out a shaky breath. "And it's not just this… I forgot his seventh birthday because I was trying to pass legislations, and when Molly yelled at me for an hour after I got home, I told her that 'Ronnie won't even remember his seventh birthday in a few years'. Can you believe that?"

Sebastian said nothing, but his silence was answer enough.

"Every single time I had the chance to connect with him, I passed it off," Arthur went on. "I bought Percy an owl instead of buying Ron a wand-"

"What?" something dangerous flashed behind Sebastian's eyes. "You didn't buy him a wand, Arthur?"

"Percy had just made prefect, and Molly wanted nothing more than to give him a reward," Arthur felt even more ashamed of himself. "I spent all of our savings on that owl, completely forgetting that Ron needed a wand for his first year of Hogwarts. I only remembered when Ron greeted me at the fireplace; he was so excited to go wand shopping with me the next day… I had to pull him aside later that evening and tell him that he'd be using Charlie's old wand, and that he wouldn't be getting his very own for a while. Once again, I figured that Ron would understand…"

"And did he?" Sebastian asked.

"He walked away quietly, and didn't come out of his room for an entire day," Arthur replied, and that's when a terrible truth suddenly hit him. "I don't even know what his favorite color is…"

"It's blue," Sebastian said, and Arthur felt like the worst sort of scum.

"I have always let him down, and I never gave that fact any thought until I was forced to…" Arthur sniffed harshly. "And yet, when he finally let me down for a change… Just this once… I couldn't even bring myself to look at him. I woke up early, and left everything in Molly's hands…"

"You came looking for me," Sebastian figured.

"He sees you as his… as his father…" Arthur swallowed thickly. "Please, help me… If he had died last night… I'd have never forgiven myself…"

Sebastian drew in a deep breath, his eyes fixed on Arthur's. Say something already…

"When I first met you, Arthur, you reminded me of my father," Sebastian finally broke his silence, and Arthur blinked at him. "A weak man, not deserving of respect or position."

"I… I see…" Arthur was honestly jarred. He certainly doesn't pull his punches.

"Let me finish," Sebastian said, and Arthur gave a nod. "Ron was a brilliant young wizard, and yet, I could see that his potential was completely untapped. It wasn't long before I learned that you and Molly frequently neglected him, and that his relationship with you both was deeply damaged. Seeing his lack of self-confidence, and his inability to praise himself… It stirred old feelings within me… My father also neglected me in favor of his hobbies. You've heard of him, haven't you?" I've heard that he was a joke of a man.

"Only in passing," Arthur replied.

"He was a pathetic little man," Sebastian said bitterly. "He squandered our wealth, he laughed when his Family was insulted, and he never once asked after me. I barely existed in his world."

"I'm sorry to hear that," Arthur said.

"I found love elsewhere," Sebastian said with a weak smile. "But I digress… You reminded me of my father, and so I worked harder to make Ron feel wanted. I welcomed him into my Family, I made sure to tell him that I was proud of him whenever it was deserved, and I even grew to love him as my own. I wanted him to have what was denied me."

"Then you're a better man than I am…" Arthur said weakly.

"No, I'm not," Sebastian said. "I mistook you for another man, Arthur. You are nothing like my father… My father wouldn't be sitting here right now, asking another man to help him connect to his own son. You have proven me wrong, time and time again. You read every single book that Daphne bought, you willingly changed your stance on Slytherin House for Ron's sake, you have admitted your failings to a man who threatens to take your son from you, and you even came here to ask me, of all people, for advice. That's not a man who can't stand the sight of his son… That's a man who, despite being in so much pain himself, is still willing to put his child first. You have not only proven me wrong, Arthur, but over time, you've made me respect you."

Arthur could do little but stare at Sebastian; he had never heard a kinder thing said about his character. And it's Sebastian Greengrass who holds me in such high regard?

"I… I don't know what to say, Sebastian," Arthur said dumbly.

"Then say nothing, and listen," Sebastian said, and Arthur leaned forward in his chair. "Ron needs his father by his side, now more than ever."

"I don't even know how to interact with him…" Arthur sighed out. "I'm pretty sure that I'm one of the reasons why he ended up…" he trailed off.

Sebastian looked truly bothered by this, and for some reason, it was a comforting thing to see. Maybe it's because I've never seen this side of him before? His wife and daughters love and respect him completely, so he's clearly doing something right.

"To resort to suicide, though…" Sebastian said reluctantly. "No… I don't think you had much of a part in something like this."

"Why do you say that?" Arthur asked, and for a few moments, Sebastian sat as silent as a statue.

"You have to push a man over the brink for him to try and claim his own life," Sebastian all but whispered. "Many claim that suicide is the coward's way out, but I don't fully believe that. Yes, it's used as a means to escape one's problems, but taking that plunge… That isn't easy… Even the bravest of men fear death, after all…" Why does it sound like he's speaking from experience?

For a brief moment, Arthur thought that Sebastian looked truly haunted. It was subtle, but Arthur had always seen the man remain in control of himself, and so, whenever Sebastian showed the smallest signs of being human, every single person picked up on it.

"Sebastian-"

"You shouldn't avoid going home," Sebastian stood up to leave. "He's probably frightened beyond words right now, Arthur, and it's your duty as a man to protect your child."

"How do I start?" Arthur asked.

"How did you start with your other children?" Sebastian asked.

"He's not like my other children," Arthur said.

"Then go about this as if he were your firstborn," Sebastian advised. "If you want the honest truth, Arthur, here it is… It won't take much to win him over."

"It won't?" Arthur blinked.

"Not if you give it your best," Sebastian replied. "All he's ever wanted from you is the chance to stand out, and to be treated like he means something to you."

"And… And what if he tries this again?" Arthur asked.

"Did you take his wand away?" Sebastian asked.

"He all but gave it to me… Told me that he no longer needed it," Arthur said, he still hadn't started thinking about that particular comment. One step at a time, Arthur.

"I haven't seen him yet, but something tells me that he won't be trying this again," Sebastian started. "Nevertheless, you have to keep your eyes on him. He is extremely sharp for his age, and if I've learned anything about him, it's that he never gives up if he wants something."

"Then let's pray that he's come to his senses," Arthur said. "Still… I wonder what pushed him so far… Was it Tracey? Do you think he blames himself for what happened to her?"

"Would you blame yourself in his place?" Sebastian asked, and Arthur gave a reluctant nod.

"Even though I'd be thankful for Tracey's actions, I'd still blame myself for not doing more in the moment," Arthur said. If I know one thing about Ron, it's that he loves his friends. I mean, he nearly left the Family just so he could stay with them.

"Good luck, Arthur," Sebastian said, and Arthur quickly stood up and put his hand forward.

"Thank you, Sebastian," Arthur smiled a little, and after a moment, Sebastian shook Arthur's hand. That's a really firm handshake… Merlin, I think he broke my hand.

"I will need to tell my daughter about this," Sebastian said suddenly.

"What? Why?" Arthur blinked.

"He will eventually return to Hogwarts, will he not?" Sebastian asked.

"Oh…"

"We can't watch over him once he's there, and neither can the Professors," Sebastian said. "Daphne… This will break her heart, but she is owed the truth. She has done more for him than all of us combined in the past year." She has, hasn't she?

"I understand," Arthur gave a nod. "I'm sorry about this, Sebastian… I wish I could've stopped him before he went up there… Daphne doesn't deserve this."

"No, she doesn't," Sebastian said. "Goodbye, Arthur."

"Take care of yourself, Sebastian," Arthur gave the pale man a parting nod, and Sebastian left to go keep his daughter company.

Arthur drew in a deep breath, and then he began to head for the closest fireplace. He needed to be there for his Family right now.

---

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Afternoon)

After having a couple of beers to build up his courage, Arthur had returned home in order to speak to Ron. Luckily, the boy wasn't in the living room when Arthur had come through. I just need a minute to compose myself.

He drew in a deep breath, and then, he made his way into the kitchen. He immediately spotted Ron sitting on the dining table, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. Molly was cooking lunch, and no doubt keeping her eyes on Ron. I should relieve her of her watch. She probably hasn't slept since Ron was brought back to us. Arthur made his way into the kitchen, stopping by his wife's side near the stove. For the time being, he decided not to pay attention to Ron. Once Molly's gone, I'll speak to him alone.

"You're back," Molly said, her voice low and tired. "Is your Ministry work finished up?" I'm sorry, Molly.

"It is," Arthur said. "How has he been? Has he acted out in any way?"

"He hasn't made a sound all day," Molly said worriedly. "Honestly, I've never seen him so… quiet…"

"And he hasn't asked to leave your sight?" Arthur asked, and Molly shook her head. This is good.

"I went to do the laundry just before, and he followed me without me even having to ask," Molly replied. "He's… He's being very cooperative, Arthur… Something's not right." What?

"Molly…" Arthur was a little surprised to hear that.

"This is Ron," Molly whispered. "He's always thinking about something, isn't he? You said so yourself."

"Why don't you let me take over for a bit?" Arthur put his hand on her back, a concerned look on his face. "You look exhausted, Molly… I'll watch over him."

"You won't let him out of your sight?" Molly asked, she was too tired to argue right now.

"Not even for a second," Arthur promised, and Molly let out a sigh.

"He's already had his lunch, and yours is on the table," Molly said as she took off her apron. "I'll be up in a couple of hours-"

"Take as much time as you need," Arthur said, and his wife gave him a weak smile.

"Thank you," Molly said, and then she headed towards the stairs.

Before she began ascending the stairs, however, she paused and shot a quick look back at Ron. The young wizard kept his eyes on the table, completely ignoring the world around him. He looks more torn up than any of us. Is he upset because he was caught before he could jump? For a brief moment, Arthur felt the urge to shake and demand answers from Ron, but he quickly pushed his anger down. The last thing he wanted to do was to upset Ron even more. I should've had another beer.

With Molly gone, Ron seemed to tense up. He fidgeted with his hands, his restless eyes scanning the table in front of him thoroughly. What's he thinking right now?

"Ron, are you all right?" Arthur asked, somehow managing to sound like his usual self.

"Yes…" Ron replied.

"I have some work to do in my shed," Arthur started. "Um… Do you want to come with me?"

"If that's what you want," Ron nodded and stood up, his eyes traveling towards the exit. He's doing his best to not look at me.

"Look at me, Ron," Arthur said, and the boy froze. "Why are you hiding your gaze?" It won't change what you did last night…

Ron said nothing to that, and Arthur couldn't help but feel a little frustrated. Why did you do something so stupid, Ron? What did you hope to accomplish?

"Let's just go…" Arthur sighed out. I need to get a hold over myself. He'll never open up if I keep getting upset every time I look at him.

---

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Late Afternoon)

Sebastian had made it sound so damn easy.

For the last hour, neither wizard had said a single word. Arthur looked through his latest findings quietly, while Ron just stared at whatever caught his attention. Still, spending time in his shed had relaxed Arthur quite a lot. Plus, he was able to keep his eyes on Ron, which had helped him get a better reading on the young wizard.

Ron wasn't upset; he was completely resigned. There isn't a hint of life behind his eyes-

"Dad…" Ron finally broke his silence, nearly making Arthur jump in fright.

"What is it, Ron?" Arthur looked towards his youngest son, only to find the boy staring at the floor again. This again…

"I'm sorry…" Ron apologized, his tone unusually meek.

Arthur felt something cool in his chest, and for a moment, he felt at ease again. But then, his mind caught back up to reality.

"Why did you do it, Ron?" Arthur couldn't help but ask, and Ron tensed up again. Ignore it. "Why throw everything away like that?"

Ron shot a quick look back at the door, and Arthur immediately moved in between Ron and the exit.

"No, Ron… You're not going to walk away from this," Arthur said, and Ron took a tiny step back. "I just… I don't understand why you did this… I want you to talk to me, son. Tell me what drove you to such an extreme measure. Is it Tracey? She's not gone yet, Ron… You yourself were in a coma for a month! The Healers also told us to give up, and yet, you pulled through! She can do the same-"

"She's not me…" Ron muttered, genuine distress all over his face. "And she won't wake up…"

"What makes you so sure?" Arthur all but demanded. "Why do you never say what's on your mind, Ron? Why do you always obscure the truth? Why do you have to be this way?! Why couldn't you have turned out more like your siblings?!"

As soon as the heated words left his mouth, Arthur was hit with a wave of guilt unlike any before it. Ron flinched at his words, his bottom lip quivering as his eyes began to well up. And if that wasn't enough to make Arthur hate himself, Ron began sniffling and rubbing his eyes like he used to when he was still too young to talk.

"I'm… I'm sorry…" Ron made a sound that nearly killed Arthur. "I don't… want to be this way… I'm so sorry…"

"I… I didn't…" Arthur's throat tightened up. "Ron…"

Arthur stepped forward and pulled his boy to his chest, his left hand resting on the back of Ron's head. Ron let out a strangled sob into Arthur's chest, not returning his father's hug.

"I'm sorry," Arthur apologized repeatedly. "I didn't mean that, Ron… I'm sorry." How could I say that?! I'm so stupid!

The worst part about this was that, in the back of his mind, a small part of Arthur really did mean it. Normally, he'd never ask Ron to be more like his other children, but even the greatest parent in the world would struggle with such a volatile and headstrong boy, and as of last night, Ron had all but lost Arthur's trust. He even tricked Pandora into convincing me… Gods, what am I going to say to her the next time we meet? How am I supposed to deal with this?

---

William Weasley's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – Evening)

Bill rushed through the fireplace; Griphook had laughed his request off like it was nothing… Fucking bastard. I should have known better than to exchange favors with a damn Goblin.

"Bill?" Molly jumped from fright as her son burst into the living room.

"Mum," Bill came to an abrupt halt. "Sorry I'm so late, but Griphook-"

His mother shushed him softly, pointing towards Ron and Arthur. Bill immediately felt relieved at the sight of father and son sleeping shoulder to shoulder, a thin blanket covering their legs. Thank the Gods… I was worried that mum and dad would struggle too much without me here to help them with Ron.

"How long have they been asleep?" Bill whispered as he moved to his mother's side.

"I don't know," Molly whispered back. "I just found them like this. They look so peaceful, don't they?"

"They do," Bill smiled a little, and then he looked to his mother. "How are you, mum?"

"I'm scared…" Molly admitted weakly, and Bill quickly took her hand in his. "What are we supposed to do, Bill? What if he keeps trying to…?" she trailed off.

"Everything will be all right," Bill tried, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "I don't think Ron will try anything… At least, not for a while… We just have to keep our eyes on him for now, and then, we'll slowly get some answers out of him."

Molly nodded nervously, and Bill leaned down and kissed her hand. She smiled a little at that, her free hand patting his cheek.

"I'll cook dinner tonight," Bill offered. "You should keep resting."

"Thank you, Bill," she accepted with misty eyes.

"I'll try to not poison the Family," Bill joked, and she smiled more fully.

---

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – After Dinner)

"When did you learn to cook, Bill?" Molly asked, they were all sitting together around the dining table.

"Oh… I was seeing a girl when I first started working in Egypt," Bill replied, and something flashed behind his mother's eyes.

"A girl, eh?" Arthur smiled weakly. "Why didn't you tell us?" Because you would have scared her off.

"It wasn't serious," Bill shrugged. "We broke up in a couple of months."

"Why?" Molly asked.

"I spent too much time at work," Bill replied.

"Oh… Well, it's hardly your fault, then," Molly said. "Every young man should focus on becoming financially stable. Your father was working twelve hour shifts every second day when I was pregnant with you."

"Yeah, I don't remember seeing dad very often whenever you were pregnant," Bill said.

"With Ron, he had to work even more," Molly said nostalgically, and Bill shot a quick look at the silent Weasley. He's not even listening. "I used to eat mountains of food at every sitting."

"Did you hear that, Ron?" Bill nudged his little brother. "Food was your first true love."

Ron gave an awkward little smile, and then he went back to eating his food quietly. Merlin, he's eating so slowly. I never thought that I'd see this.

"Are Blaise and Theo coming back soon?" Arthur asked Molly, his eyes flickering towards Ron. Just give him some time, dad… It hasn't even been a day yet.

"They were supposed to be back hours ago," Molly said, a hint of worry in her voice. They most likely lost track of time.

"I can go look for them," Bill offered. "They're probably with Tracey, and forgot about coming back."

"Are you sure?" Arthur asked.

"It's nothing, dad," Bill smiled as he stood up. "You can do the dishes for a change."

"Ah…" Arthur nodded in understanding. "Don't force them to come back, all right? Just wait until they're both ready, and then bring them home." Home?

"I understand," Bill said, his eyes moving towards Ron. "Ron, do you want to come with me?"

Ron visibly tensed at that, his gaze moving down to his lap.

"Um… No… I don't want to go there yet," Ron replied. "I'll just wait for you in here…"

"Are you sure?" Bill asked, making sure to sound like his usual self.

"Yes…" Ron muttered. I should take my own advice and be patient. There's no telling what's going through his mind right now.

"All right, then," Bill gave Ron a pat on the shoulder, and then he began heading towards the living room. I wonder how long James and Susana will keep Tracey 'alive' through those potions. Ron really needs to say his goodbyes soon.

Just as he entered the living room, the fireplace roared to life. What the…? Daphne stepped through the green flames, a slightly dangerous look on her face. It was enough to jar Bill in his spot, mostly because he understood why she looked so angry. How did she even find out? Theo and Blaise came through next, both of them looked tired and distant. Oh, no…

"Where is he?" Daphne asked as soon as she spotted him, and he moved between her and the exit.

"Now is not a good time for this-" Bill started.

"I don't care," Daphne's voice cracked a little, he could tell that she had been crying. "If he gets to be so bloody selfish, then I get to talk to him whenever it's convenient for me."

"How did you even find out?" Bill whispered, looking towards the boys.

"Lord Greengrass," Blaise replied aloofly. "He wants us to look after him when we all return to Hogwarts… Shame that Lord Greengrass had no idea that Ron has no intention of returning to Hogwarts ever again." What?

"He told you that?" Bill blinked. "He hasn't mentioned anything about this plan to us…"

"Are you honestly surprised?" Daphne asked, anger flashing across her face. "Ron might as well be a chest full of secrets and lies-"

"You need to calm down," Theo stepped in. "I get that you're upset, but if you go at him right now, you'll only give him another reason to try again."

"I know how to talk to him," Daphne shot Theo a frown. "You're not the one who's spent hours and hours by his side, always putting yourself second for his needs!" Merlin, this isn't going to end well. "Just pack up your things, you two, and let me worry about Ron."

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – After Dinner)

He already knew what was coming… After all, he had been dreading it the entire day. They were going to have a fight, and by the end of it, Ron would lose his best friend. No one had given up as much as Daphne had for his sake, even going as far as to loan him a thousand Galleons not long ago. At every step of the way, he had relied on her, but when she needed him most, he had tried to check out. His selfishness was not lost on him, which is why he didn't plan to stop her if she decided to throw in the towel.

She deserved much better than him, and for the first time in his life, he truly understood that.

"Why, Ron?" Daphne stood by the window, they had been sent to Bill's room for some privacy. "Why would you do something like this?"

Ron couldn't find his voice, opting instead to stare at the floorboards. Daphne waited, and she waited, and she waited… And then, she walked up and shoved him. The large boy was taken off guard, nearly losing his footing as a result.

"What are you staring at the floor for?!" she screamed, looking completely hysterical.

For a brief moment, Ron was genuinely scared of her.

"I'm sorry…" he apologized again. "I… I don't know what I was thinking…"

"You tried this even after Tracey…" Daphne started, a little sob escaping her throat. "She died for you, Ron… And you tried to throw that away… How could you?!"

Ron thought that he had reached rock bottom, but after hearing those words, he nearly lost the will to keep standing. She's right… Tracey gave her life for mine, and I tried to throw it away again. If it weren't for her, I'd already be dead. He had mostly given up on the idea of suicide by now, mostly because he was afraid of the Entity and his uncertain future, but now, he knew that he had to keep living.

He owed Tracey far more than that.

"I won't do it again, I promise…" Ron managed, his eyes shifting about nervously.

"I wish I could believe that…" Daphne took a step back, a miserable look on her face. "But your words… You always hide the truth from me. From everyone! You don't trust a single person in this world, so why should I trust you?!"

"You can-"

"Stop it!" she snapped, making Ron flinch. "I've always been there for you! No matter how bizarre your behavior, I stood by you as best I could! Even when you were mean to me, I always tried to see things from your perspective! But you… The one time I really needed you, you were off planning your suicide! How could you be so selfish?! Did you even consider what your suicide would do to me?! What about Pandora, Ron?! What would happen to her pregnancy if you were found dead in Hogwarts?!"

He didn't know if it was her anger, or the truth behind her words, that caused him to tear up, but as he stood there listening to her, he started sniffling like a scolded child. Gods help him, he tried his best to stop, but the shame he felt right now was too much to bear.

He had caused so much pain for his own selfish desires, and in his eyes, he had now fully failed his Cycle.

"You… You've broken my heart…" Daphne hiccupped, her fingers clutching the fabric over her heart. "I gave everything I had… But it meant so little to you that you tried to… Without any sort of goodbye…"

Daphne dropped down to her knees, her hands covering her face as she started crying loudly. Without thinking, he quickly rushed over to her side, but the moment he put his hand on her back, she shoved him away. Ron landed on his arse, his blurry eyes fixed on her heaving form.

"Don't touch me…" she coughed out, hiding her face again. "I thought I meant something to you, Ron…"

"You mean everything to me," Ron tried, sitting back up.

"Then why…?" she squeaked. "Why didn't you come to me if you were feeling like that…?"

"I don't know…" Ron sniffled. "I'm sorry…"

"Stop apologizing," she shot him an angry glare, though her expression quickly fell again. "Just stop it…"

"Okay…" Ron muttered, looking back down at the ground.

Honestly, what was he supposed to say? He felt so ashamed of himself that whenever he opened his mouth, an apology came out against his will. I'll just stay quiet, then… He remained at her side for what felt like hours, listening to her cry her heart out. Occasionally, she'd whimper Tracey's name, and whenever their eyes met, she broke down even more. It was unbearable, but Ron did nothing to escape his situation.

But then, rather abruptly, Daphne began trying to stand up. Her legs wobbled, but before she could fall back, Ron quickly shot up to his feet in order to hold her up.

"Daph…" Ron whispered worriedly.

"I don't want to talk to you anymore…" she croaked, her bloodshot eyes absent life. "I need some time away from you… Tracey needs me right now, and I can't keep giving you everything I have…"

He had expected this, and yet, his blood froze nonetheless.

"Are… Are you breaking up with me?" Ron swallowed thickly, and she gave him a distant look.

Time seemed to stop, and Ron could do little but stare into her lifeless eyes.

"I just want to stop feeling this way…" Daphne muttered eventually. "I finally get it, Ron… I now know why you wanted me to break up with you… Losing Tracey has been so painful, and… And I can't do this again…" Her face twisted painfully, and she let out a heart-wrenching sob. "I'm sorry… Please, don't make me go through this again…"

The wind left his lungs, but Ron managed to keep his pain inside himself. She wanted to break up with him, but she didn't have the heart to leave him… Were they really that codependent? He knew that if he could have any wish, he'd pick a normal life with Daphne as his girlfriend. Sadly, however, reality didn't give a damn about their wishes, and Ron could now see just how much pain he was causing her by tethering himself to her. She's only thirteen… She shouldn't have to deal with this sort of shit… She deserves a normal life, and she'll never get it if I'm her boyfriend. She'll never be happy with someone like me.

"I understand…" Ron all but whispered, his eyes welling up again.

Daphne blinked at him, and Ron offered her a weak smile. Do the right thing for a change, Ron.

"You understand?" Daphne whispered.

"Remember the promise we made?" Ron struggled to keep his faltering smile in place. "About what we'd do if one of us wanted to break up?"

"I remember…" Daphne hiccupped.

"I'm sorry that I hurt you," Ron apologized for the last time. "I'll never do something like this again, I swear it… And if you really want to break up, I'll respect your decision…" I feel like my heart's going to explode!

Daphne looked uncertain all of a sudden, fresh tears running down her flushed cheeks. What is she thinking? Ron waited for her to say something, and he even secretly prayed for her to reconsider, but in the end, Daphne silently walked away from him.

He remained rooted in his spot, his eyes fixed on where she used to be. It felt like the whole world had ended, and it was entirely his fault… Daphne had been nothing but reliable and loving, but Ron wasn't capable of being the same way. For him, there had only ever been one path. I'll die alone, forgotten and hated by everyone of note.

When he heard the door shut behind her, he knew that the only good part of his soul was now gone.

Ronald Weasley was now completely, and truly, alone.

---

Theodore Nott's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (The Burrow – After Dinner)

Why hadn't he seen this coming?

Ron had stolen from him… Ron hadn't been himself ever since the attack… Ron was frequently driven to his wit's end due to his conditions… Ron was constantly saying cryptic things that eluded to his demise…

There were so many clear signs, but Theo hadn't noticed a single one of them. And neither had Blaise, judging by his aloof and cold demeanor.

Were they angry with Ron? Not really… How could they be mad at someone in Ron's shoes? The bloke wasn't even given a fair chance at life, and now, one of his closest friends had given her life for his. Ron definitely blamed himself for Tracey's situation, and in some way, the rest of them blamed him as well.

After all, it had been Ron who had attracted the attention of a murderous Lady. It was Ron's endless ambition to topple Blood Supremacy that had brought this shitstorm down upon them. No… He didn't have anything to do with that attack. He was the victim, and we can't forget that. This is all on Violet Parkinson, and I'll make her pay very soon.

"What's got you so riled up?" Blaise whispered, they were packing the last of their clothes. "You're glaring murder at your robes."

"Everything's fucked…" Theo tossed his robes into his trunk, a frown etched on his face. "Should we really be leaving Ron alone right now?"

"He's gone off the deep end, mate…" Blaise sighed out. "He doesn't need us right now, he needs his Family. We'd just get in the way." He's not wrong.

"Fuck…" Theo slammed his trunk shut.

"I reckon our little group is at its end," Blaise said, and Theo felt his gut tighten.

"What? Why do you say that?" Theo blurted out. "Just this morning, you were trying to get Ron to see Tracey-"

"C'mon, Theo…" Blaise started coldly. "Tracey's gone, all of our futures are completely up to the Gods, and now Ron is leaving Hogwarts… We were stupid to think that we'd all get to stay together. The Universe has been trying to split us apart from the start, and it's past time-"

"What's the matter with you?" Theo cut in hotly. "Are you really going to give up on our friends so quickly?"

"So quickly?" Blaise asked in response. "Look at how much we've all been through over the last two and a half years-"

"Which is why we need to stick together," Theo said firmly. "Blaise, we've both been waiting for our parents to contact us, and neither of them have bothered so far… Our friends are all we have… We can't just give up on them."

"Whatever, Theo…" Blaise finished packing up. "Let's just go, yeah? Daphne's probably done dumping Ron-" That's it!

"You're being a prick," Theo frowned deeply, but Blaise still looked indifferent. "How many times have we been cornered before? We always find a way to come through-"

"Ron figures out a way to come through," Blaise reminded Theo. "But now, he's got his own problems to deal with. Without him, Theo, there is no group… There is no one keeping us all together." Which is why he gave that duty to me, and unlike my own father, I plan to be there for the people who matter to me. That's what Tracey would have done if she were in my shoes.

"Ron's important to us all, but he's not the center of the Universe," Theo started. "This group means something to all of us, and I'm going to do my best to keep us together."

"And let me guess… You need my help with that," Blaise figured.

"You, Daphne, everyone… Now is the worst possible time to split up," Theo replied. "There's a fucking war on the horizon, and all of us are going to get caught up in it. If we're not together, then we can't watch each other's backs. Surely, you understand the importance of such a thing, Blaise?"

"I do," Blaise replied distantly. "But in my experience, good things never last for long… No matter how hard we try to keep them going…"

With that, Blaise made his way out of the room. Theo drew in a deep breath; he was truly at his wit's end. What was he supposed to do? He wanted to fulfill his promise to Ron, but Ron himself was trying to give up on everything. And judging by Blaise's behavior, he's given up as well… Fuck!

What was he supposed to do?

In all of his years, Theo had only ever felt this lost once.

The mere thought of his mother's murder, and Tracey's similar experience, sent a cold shiver through Theo's body… Now, more than ever, Theo was convinced that his father's views were wrong. It certainly didn't help that his father had once again abandoned him, just like he had when Theo's mother was killed. He's too busy with his 'Cause'… I bet he's glad that it was Tracey who was left comatose.

Anger welled up inside him, and Theo marched out of the room with his trunk in tow. He'd have his say when he crossed his father's path again, but right now, he needed to focus on bringing his own house in order.

Millie and Pansy hadn't taken Lord Greengrass' news well, with Pansy even going as far as to label the man a liar, but Theo still saw them as vital to the group's survival. If he could secure their help, they would force Daphne to stay with her friends. From there, I can get her to reach out to Malfoy and Blaise-

Theo stopped abruptly, his eyes landing on Blaise's back. The dark wizard was standing still, his body leaning towards the door to his left. Is… Is he eavesdropping?

"What are you doing?" Theo whispered from behind him, and Blaise gestured him to open his ears.

Theo did as he was told, and he immediately heard the sound of muffled sobbing. Aren't Ron and Daphne in that room? Merlin, that must be Daphne… It felt odd to worry over her like this, but try as he might, he couldn't feel indifferent anymore. Her pained sobbing was not a good sign for the group's future, and he cared enough about her to feel horrible on her behalf. I can't even count how many times she's been there for Ron… This must be hell for her.

"Let's go…" Blaise started walking again. "We'll wait for her in the living room…" He's bothered too, isn't he? He'll just never admit it. Gods, Trace… I wish you were still here.

---

Sebastian Greengrass' POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (Greengrass Manor – Night)

It had been a long day, one filled with painful conversations and haunting memories.

All he wanted right now was some rest, but the moment he had entered his own house, his wife had cornered him in front of the fireplace. Mary and he had been fighting constantly behind closed doors ever since the attack, and the cause of all of this fighting was Sebastian's 'coldness' towards Ron. Honestly, he hadn't seen Mary act like such a vindictive Harpy since her pregnancy with Astoria.

He certainly couldn't deny that he had been treating the boy rather poorly as of late, but in his defense, Ron was a fucking handful at the best of times. And when Ron was angered… Merlin, he could be downright cruel. As the boy's mentor, Sebastian could have easily ignored the boy's cold glare and threats, but as someone who treated Ron like he was blood, Sebastian couldn't help but feel deeply wounded by Ron's lack of respect.

Perhaps he was foolish to expect any different… Ron was extremely unwell, and his recent behavior only further proved that. Perhaps Sebastian had too many expectations of Ron, a fault that many people in Ron's life shared. Was it really worth it? To treat him so coldly? It all seems so petty in hindsight.

"Are you listening to me?!" Mary demanded in German.

"Mary… I've had a long day," Sebastian started, and her cheeks became flushed from anger. "Can we please not fight today?"

"When was the last time you saw Ron?!" Mary demanded, ignoring her husband's plea. "He's in so much pain, and you're still holding onto some petty vendetta! He spoke out of turn, yes, but your behavior proves you to be just as immature as him!" Gods, kill me… Please.

He had half a mind to tell her about Ron's suicide attempt, if only to stop her from damaging his eardrums for a moment, but he had given his word to Arthur, and he didn't want the situation to escalate beyond control. Arthur will no doubt bring us all together tomorrow, and then tell us how to proceed. If I play my cards right, I can heal the relationship between Arthur and Ron, and in doing so, help Ron realize that he has many reasons to keep going.

"Ever since we took him to Paris, I've counted him as one of my own!" Mary ranted on in thick German, her face red from yelling. "And you abandon him when he needs you the most?! And over what?! Some heated exchange?! I'm warning you, Sebastian, if you don't go see him tomorrow, I'll throw you out of our room! If you do anything to further hurt him, I'll-"

Mary abruptly stopped being hysterical, something that pulled Sebastian out of his thoughts. She's not yelling anymore? He followed her gaze down the greeting room, where he spotted Daphne, Theodore, and Blaise. The boys looked awkward and lost, while Daphne was looking around the room in a trance of some sort. They're back from the Burrow? I expected Daphne to stay with Ron all night long.

"Daphne?" Mary called, and their daughter slowly looked in their direction. Gods, she looks like she's been to hell… What happened at the Burrow?

Seeing her daughter's haggard state, Mary forgot all about Sebastian. Within a second, Mary had rushed over in order to fret over Daphne, and by the time Sebastian had caught up to his wife, Daphne was crying loudly in her mother's bosom.

"What happened?" Sebastian demanded from the boys. "What is the meaning of this?"

"Um… Sorry about this intrusion, my Lord," Theodore started, his eyes darting towards Daphne and Mary.

Sebastian quickly pulled the boys aside, leaving Mary to try and comfort Daphne in peace. Did they have a fight? Or is she just upset about what Ron did?

"Speak," Sebastian ordered, and Theodore looked to Blaise.

"We don't know anything for certain, but I think that Daphne and Ron broke up," Blaise said, and Sebastian just stared at him. What? That wasn't supposed to happen.

"They broke up?" Sebastian asked for clarification. "Why?" Did I cause this by telling them the truth?

"We don't know what they talked about, my Lord," Blaise replied. "She just came back looking… upset…" Upset? She looks like she's been tortured!

"What do you mean you broke up?" came Mary's voice; she and Daphne were conversing in German.

Daphne sobbed out something incoherent, but judging by Mary's shocked expression, Sebastian figured that Daphne had just blurted out the truth about Ron's current situation. Oh, damn. Mary's wide eyes traveled to him, and Sebastian could do little but stare back.

"Go to your room, my love," Mary looked back to Daphne. "I'll be with you very soon, okay?"

"Okay…" Daphne whimpered, and Mary kissed her daughter's forehead.

"We can escort her there," Theodore volunteered, no doubt eager to leave.

"Go," Sebastian said, his eyes fixed on Daphne.

The boys quickly dragged her away, while Mary walked over to his side. Did I make a mistake in telling her? What have I done?

"Suicide?!" Mary hissed, panic written all over her face. "Sebastian… How could you not tell me this?!"

"I only found out today," Sebastian sighed out.

"And you told Daphne?" Mary demanded, some of her anger returning. Here we go again…

"I thought she deserved to know," Sebastian tried.

"Or you figured that she'd finally break up with him over this!" Mary accused, and Sebastian nearly lost his temper.

"Do not make me strike you, wife," Sebastian hissed coldly, but Mary glared at him challengingly. "I will not have you question my honor within my own home."

Mary didn't lose her glare as she drew in a deep breath, her eyes fixed on his. Why did I marry this confrontational Harpy?! He had no intention of losing this confrontation, and he was willing to stand his ground all night if needed.

That is, until he saw the tears welling up in her eyes. No… Don't do that right now. Stop it. She suddenly sniffled without losing her glare, and Sebastian released a tired breath. By the Gods…

"I spoke in anger… Forgive me, love…" Sebastian apologized, throwing away his masculinity like a used towel. "I could never lay my hands upon you, not even under the Imperius Curse."

Mary finally lost her glare, her entire demeanor becoming weaker.

"I know you didn't do this," Mary walked over and rested her forehead on his shoulder. "Gods… What is happening to our children, Sebastian?"

"I don't know," Sebastian put his arms around her. "Whoever ordered that hit… They've destroyed everything…" Why can no one find the culprit? What is Dumbledore not telling us?

"I'm sorry…" Mary hugged him to herself. "You'd never hurt either of them." Never.

"Let's stop fighting?" Sebastian asked.

"Agreed," she sighed out in relief. "Should we go see him?"

"Tomorrow," Sebastian replied. "After the children have returned to Hogwarts."

"He's staying behind?" Mary asked.

"It would seem so," Sebastian remembered Blaise and Theo's warning. "Let's go see to Daphne, and then we can talk about this in the bedroom."

---

Lucius Malfoy's POV

Saturday 30th January, 1994 (Shadow of Mt. Vesuvius – Night)

He had never been so afraid in his life before.

They all stood upon a hill overlooking the villa, their uniforms freshly cleaned and proudly worn. Well, some wore their uniforms with more pride than others… Corban and Robert were walking around like peacocks, Amycus and his ilk were frothing at the mouth with excitement, sadists like Walden Macnair were sharpening their long forgotten blades, and beggars like Cornelius were cowering in the Dark Lord's shadow.

Lucius stood alone, his mind overcome with sorrow and fear.

He had failed to find Violet in time, and now, she would out him before her death. Lucius would be tortured, maybe even murdered, by his old friends, and both Narcissa and Draco would be lost in the war. The Malfoy dynasty would crumble into obscurity, and it would all be his fault. Maybe that's why I came here? To die with a shred of honor… To own up to my failures.

"Do we march, my Lord?" Amycus inquired excitedly.

"Something is not right," the Dark Lord whispered coldly, and Lucius' ears perked up. She's not here? Do I still have a chance at life?

"You feel it too, then," Gaspard said. "There's no life coming from that villa. It stands empty of Magic." They can sense Magic from this far away? Madness. "Send in the spares, I say. That'll save us from any losses of note."

"Losses of note?" Amycus snarled. "Who are you to decide that? You filthy beast." Be silent, you fool!

"He stands far above you, Amycus," the Dark Lord hissed, and Amycus was smart enough to bow his head. "Your betrayal has not left my memory just yet. You and your sister will go down to the villa, and if you alert our prey, I will have you both crucified!" Is it just me? Or is the Dark Lord becoming more and more unhinged? This cruel treatment will not inspire loyalty; he must understand that. Right?

"We won't fail you, my Lord…" Amycus scurried away, frantically searching for his sister.

"And here I thought that you despised me," Gaspard grinned, much to everyone's discomfort. He won't be the one who's punished when the Dark Lord loses his temper… Loathsome creature.

"You have proven yourself useful," the Dark Lord said, and then he looked into Gaspard's eyes. "For a filthy beast."

"Oh, that was a nice turnaround," Gaspard laughed, surprising everyone but the Dark Lord. We're all caught between two monsters… What have I gotten my Family involved in?

---

Twenty Minutes Later

Lucius did his best to stay behind the pack, away from everyone's notice.

They moved silently through the first floor, their eyes studying every dark corner. Nothing was out of place, and yet, the villa exuded an ominous aura. Lucius had no clue about what had happened here, but a voice in his mind told him that death had visited this place.

Amycus and Alecto had returned with strange news, there were no guards posted anywhere on the property. And if that wasn't strange enough, the Carrows also reported that there were no active Wards within the area. This, of course, pointed towards Violet not being here, and yet, where else could she be?

This had to be her hideout. All the evidence within the Parkinson ledgers pointed towards it. Could Felix Rosier have made a mistake? If so, then I need to thank him. After he recovers from the Dark Lord's wrath, that is. Slowly, Lucius began to break out of his weakened persona. He still had a chance to survive, and he was not going to pass that up by being weak. I may yet hold my wife and son in my arms-

"I smell blood, my Lord," Fenrir snarled, and Lucius froze in his spot. What?

"It's coming from upstairs," Gaspard confirmed. "I think someone beat us here." Truly? Was it the Order? If so, what happened to Violet? Did they capture her?

What if Dumbledore had learned the truth behind Ronald Weasley's attack? Lucius' legs nearly gave out at the thought; he wasn't built for Azkaban.

"Come," the Dark Lord hissed, leading the way upstairs.

Lucius followed limply, hopelessness gripping his heart. It was a bizarre experience, to remember your loved ones as you walked over blood and broken bodies. It didn't even occur to Lucius that the Order would never do this; all he could think about was the day he taught Draco to fly. And then we had a picnic at Narcissa's behest… That was such a beautiful day. Lucius suddenly bumped into George Selwyn's back, they had come to a stop?

Lucius looked towards the front of the party, the Dark Lord and Gaspard were whispering to each other about a dead Elf. I should move up, they could be saying something that I can still use to my advantage. Lucius pushed himself towards the Dark Lord, ignoring the annoyed glares that were sent his way. I still stand far above you all, do not forget that.

"… was done by a sharp blade," Gaspard was whispering. "Spells don't cut that cleanly, trust me." A sharp blade? Emilia Travers?

"Emilia Travers?" Corban leaned into the private conversation. "What quarrel could she have with Violet Parkinson?"

"This girl… Why does her name keep coming up?" the Dark Lord sneered, the temperature of the hallway dropping significantly.

"Because she is a warrior," Gaspard replied, his eyes fixed on the dead Elf. "The Order were fortunate to find her, she has dealt us another heavy blow."

Lucius took a step back; he didn't want the Blood Lord remembering his part in Michael's death. Thank the Gods that Natalia isn't here… She almost ripped out my throat in her rage.

"This is not the Order's work," the Dark Lord said.

"Are you forgetting about Malfoy Manor?" Gaspard asked, and Lucius felt a jolt of pain in his heart. Narcissa… "The Order proved itself just as savage as your own Death-Eaters that night."

"Dumbledore has found some cold, black iron in his soul," Corban said, his dread hidden by his crowned, bone mask.

"I know the man," the Dark Lord hissed. "And this is not his work."

The Dark Lord's eyes suddenly flashed, and he looked right at Lucius. The Malfoy Patriarch's blood froze, and he barely managed to keep himself from running away. The Dark Lord's eyes drifted towards the others, and Lucius released a timid breath. He's just thinking… Gods… I thought that he had discovered my actions somehow.

"Cornelius, lead the others in cleaning the villa," the Dark Lord finally said. "Leave no evidence of what has happened here."

"Yes, my Lord," Cornelius bowed.

"Gaspard, Corban, Robert, Lucius, and Felix…" the Dark Lord turned to leave. "Follow me."

The Dark Lord moved swiftly towards the end of the hallway, his blazing red eyes studying everything in his path. Lucius followed behind the others, every step becoming heavier and heavier. He wanted to believe that she had escaped, but deep down, he knew the truth. She had been captured, and before long, the Aurors would be coming for him. I'll be locked away in Azkaban, if I live through the Dark Lord's wrath.

The made their way through the cracked doorway, someone had blasted the door to smithereens. The smell of fresh rot suddenly filled his nostrils, and it was so overwhelming that Lucius nearly gagged. All of them immediately found the source of the putrid smell, and Lucius felt his breath hitch in his throat. Gods…

Violet Parkinson lay spread-eagle in a pool of her own blood, a fire poker sticking out of her smashed skull. The sight was ghastly enough to make Felix look away, a cowardly act that the Dark Lord easily noticed.

"Do you still believe Albus Dumbledore is behind this?" the Dark Lord hissed, ignoring Felix for now. No… He would never be so brutal. Not even to his worst enemy. Who did this to her? And why?

Could it be?

Had he fate saved him from a painful death?

"This is certainly a surprise," Gaspard said as he walked over to the body, his eyes searching for clues. "If the Order didn't find her before we did, then who smashed her fucking brains out?"

"It can't be the Aurors," Corban spoke up. "They're still searching for her."

"I had hoped it not true, but my instincts have been proven right tonight," the Dark Lord started, silencing all. "There is another force that is working against us."

"Another force, my Lord?" Robert asked.

"It is not like Dumbledore to order a mass killing against Werewolves," the Dark Lord started. "It is not like Dumbledore to leave heads on pikes. And it is not like Dumbledore to execute a woman in such brutal fashion." The Dark Lord then looked around the room. "There is no Spell damage in this room, which means that she was overpowered immediately."

"Could it be Emilia Travers?" Corban asked. "We already suspect her to have played a part in this… massacre, and she is rumored to be extremely ruthless."

"Ronin don't smash in skulls," Gaspard said, his eyes still searching for clues. "Whoever killed her… They were pissed off beyond explanation. See this?" Gaspard pointed towards where her forehead used to be. Morgana's mercy, all I see is a heap of bone and brain. "It's a heel print… Someone wearing dress shoes stepped on her forehead." Dress shoes?

"Only a Giant, or a Troll, could crush someone's skull like this," Robert shook his head. "It holds no sense…"

"And yet, here we are," Gaspard said, and then he pointed towards her mouth. "They stuck the fire poker in first… See those spurt marks? They wouldn't be there if her heart wasn't beating at the time. The fire poker held her in place, and the assailant then stomped on her head. All of this damage was done in a single strike, by the way. They were angry, and that must have fueled their barbarity."

"Barbarity? This bothers you?" the Dark Lord sneered.

"Quite the opposite," Gaspard smiled to himself. "I see a worthy adversary in my near future." I'm going to die if I keep following these mad fucks… No, I have to prove myself invaluable to the Dark Lord. That is the only way my Family can survive. I must seize this opportunity!

"What should we do with her body, my Lord?" Lucius spoke up. I need to get rid of my memories again. It'll be like I never played a part in this. "The Aurors will eventually find this place, and through her, they'll find us."

"Something that I'm well aware of," the Dark Lord said. "We will remove all traces of what has happened here… Violet Parkinson will be reported as missing instead of dead, and that will buy us time. Let the Order and the Aurors waste their time searching for her, I doubt her real killer will step forward any time soon."

"And what of Egbert, my Lord?" Corban asked.

"He will continue serving me… For the time being," the Dark Lord hissed. "He may yet prove himself useful."

The Dark Lord then looked to Lucius, his eyes flashing red.

"Go back to England, and find out what the Aurors know," the Dark Lord ordered.

"At once, my Lord," Lucius hid his gaze as he bowed. I need to get rid of my memories immediately. Thank the Gods… I have been spared! I can still save my Family!

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Sunday 31st January, 1994 (Dream Hogwarts)

He was finally here…

From the moment he had been saved against his will, Ron knew that he was going to end up here. The Entity wasn't going to forgive this 'betrayal' easily, and now that he was here, he knew that a great amount of pain awaited him.

Maybe that's why he was too scared to move?

Hadn't he suffered enough yet?

The sound of crunching leaves made him jump, and he immediately turned around to see who had crept up on him from behind Hagrid's Hut.

"Sorry for scaring you," Ravenclaw Ron stepped forward. Fuck, of course he's here. "I got tired of waiting for you at the Courtyard."

"Waiting for me?" Ron asked, his voice completely hollow.

"I wanted to talk," Ravenclaw Ron said, he was acting strange. He sounds… resigned? No… He sounds like something is bothering him.

"You're acting different…" Ron pointed out, his vacant eyes fixed on his past self.

"I'm just… I watched your recent memories," Ravenclaw Ron said, and Ron blinked at him. He can just do that in here?

"And let me guess… You think I'm pathetic too?" Ron asked weakly. "Well, get in line… No one knows how pathetic I am better than me…"

"I don't think you're pathetic," Ravenclaw Ron said, and Ron was jarred into silence. "You're not the only Ron who found himself standing atop the Astronomy Tower… Many of us found ourselves there in our own Cycles…" What? Really?

"You tried it as well?" Ron asked, his voice barely a whisper.

"After Ginny…" Ravenclaw Ron started, but then he suddenly stopped. What? What happened after you lost your Ginny?

A distant look graced his past self's face, and for the first time, Ravenclaw Ron didn't look like a maniac… He looked just like any other Ron who had endured the Cycles, tired and hollow.

"You should've listened to me…" Ravenclaw Ron sighed out. "I could have tricked you, lied to you, or forced you to follow my will… But instead of doing any of those things, I simply gave you the truth. I told you where the Horcrux was without any fuss, I offered my aid multiple times, and I even warned you about everyone abandoning you-"

"She didn't abandon me," Ron blurted out, but his past self ignored him.

"But you refused to listen to me, and now, look at where we are," Ravenclaw Ron lamented. "This could have been avoided, you idiot…"

"What could have been avoided?" Ron took a step back, a cold shiver running up his spine. "Why are you talking like that?"

"Try to not bite your tongue…" Ravenclaw Ron advised, his gaze drifting away. "Drowning in your own blood is a terrible way to go…" What the fuck?

Ron suddenly felt two tiny hands seize his right leg, the force of the grip nearly bending Ron's shin. WHAT THE FUCK?! He looked down in a panic, only to see half a Luna snarling up at him, her demonic eyes filled with hatred and contempt.

"Foolish wretch…" the Entity rasped, causing Ron to release a scared whimper.

"No, please-" Ron started, but Luna unhinged her maw and dug into his calf muscle.

Ron howled in pain, his legs giving out from shock. The Entity gnashed through a good chunk of his calf muscle, ignoring Ron's ever-loudening screams. Just as he regained enough sense to beg again, he felt the Entity's claws dig into his side. FUCK! It's climbing onto me!

"You would undo the Cycle…?" the Entity vomited black sludge over his face, causing Ron to gag and swallow the vile slime.

He spluttered and choked, while the Entity shrieked in anger as it clawed at his chest. White-hot pain was all he felt. It was all over him, and it was getting worse and worse. It's going to kill me! I'll be trapped with it for eternity! Somewhere in the madness, Ron managed to vomit out the slime, which once again allowed him to plead for mercy.

"GET OFF!" Ron cried, feeling the Entity's claw dig into the right side of his face. "STOP! PLEASE!"

"We are going to teach you a lesson…" the Entity bit out. "This is what awaits you should you fail Us…"

Through the blood and tears, Ron managed to see the Entity's twisted face. It was trying to be Luna, but it was too weak to maintain its form. Her head was misshapen and twisted, her jaw protruding out like a shark's. The horrific sight was enough to make him start screaming again, begging everything and anything in the Universe to help him.

His prayers were, however, interrupted by his attacker. The Entity clawed up to his face, gripping his head from either side. Ron tried to shove the small 'girl' off of himself, but he was quickly overpowered when she began dashing his head against the ground.

"We shall read your thoughts when they are upon the ground…" the Entity coughed out, drenching Ron in more slime.

"Fuck! It's burning me!" Ron howled, his bleeding injuries sizzling at the slime's contact. "I'm sorry! Stop!"

He suddenly felt two thumbs pressing against his eyelids, and any resolve he had left in him all but vanished. He tried to beg for mercy, but his throat only produced terrified screams.

"We are blind to your future, are We not?!" the Entity shrieked. "Now, you shall be too!"

The pressure on his eyelids began building, and Ron flopped about like a fish out of water. The pain in his body was multiplied a hundred fold as soon as he heard something squish, and Ron screamed so loudly that his throat began to ache. The Entity's talon-like thumbs squirmed around inside his skull, scooping out his crushed eyes.

The world became nothing but darkness and pain.

He would have begged for death, but he couldn't stop screaming.

"You will never move against this Cycle again!"

---

Sunday 31st January, 1994 (The Burrow – Dead of Night)

He wheezed painfully as he woke up, his eyesight suddenly returned to him.

The world spun around him, it felt alien to have eyes again, but soon enough, Ron was looking around for the Entity. Where is it?! Where did it go?! The dark room was also foreign, and that filled him with even more dread. It's toying with me?!

Like a disease, the memories of his 'punishment' flooded his mind. Images of broken limbs and bloodied claws made him cringe into himself, shivering like a frightened baby. What the fuck…? He still felt raw from what had happened, but there was no more pain. His five senses had returned to normal as well, which in itself was a jarring experience.

He was in the real world again, wasn't he?

Reluctantly, Ron began scanning the room, his eyes eventually landing on Bill's sleeping face. That's right… I sleep in Bill's room now. Ron sat back up with a haunted look, his mind filled with horror and disbelief.

Had that really just happened to him? Of course… I can still remember how it felt to have my face clawed open…

Was this his life now? He was to be a slave to Fate until his dying breath? I can't do anything about the Entity, and I can't do anything about Fate… I have to complete my Cycle. There is no out for me… I'm not ready to be trapped with the Entity for eternity…

Ron tried to move off of the bed, but his left hand suddenly felt soaked. What's that? Ron patted the mattress; it was soaked in something. Not sweat… It smells like piss. Fuck… Oh, fuck… He felt humiliated enough to tear up; he had wet the fucking bed.

"Are you fucking with me…?" Ron whimpered, what was he supposed to do about this? I don't even have my wand… Why is this happening to me?

Ron slid out of his bed, an utterly devastated look on his face. He was just done… He couldn't take it anymore. Where's Bill's wand? Where is it? Ron looked around the room, his vacant eyes searching slowly but surely. It's not here? Did he put it in his bedside table? Ron limped over to the table, his wet pajamas sticking to him uncomfortably. He slowly opened each drawer, finding nothing but paperwork and a lot of letters with the Delacour sigil on them. Why does Bill have letters from a Delacour?

Ron looked to his sleeping brother, what was Bill up to? Why is he in contact with a French Family? Ron thought about reading the letters, but in the end, he couldn't shame himself any further. Especially now that he had spotted Bill's wand… His older brother had gone to sleep with it clutched in hand. Of course… He doesn't want me to off myself in the night. Smart. He outthought me.

Ron released a sorry chuckle; the Universe really could be a viscous cunt sometimes. What am I thinking? I'm not ready to die… I can't deal with the Entity for eternity. I need to find a way to free myself, and only then I can die.

It took him a while to pluck up the courage to wake up his eldest brother, the shame was almost as horrible as the torture he had just endured. He shook Bill weakly, and his brother's eyes snapped open. That's all it took?

"What is it…?" Bill croaked as he sat up, and Ron quickly hid his gaze. Bloody hell… How do I even start?

"Um… I had a nightmare…" Ron all but whispered.

"What is that smell?" Bill cut in, his nose scrunching up. Just tell him, Ron.

"I wet the bed…" Ron managed, his throat closing up. "I'm sorry, Bill… I don't have my wand…"

"Oh…" Bill blinked, his eyes fixed on Ron. "Right…"

Bill suddenly pushed off his blanket and hopped out of bed, his wand clutched tightly in his hand. Ron gave his brother some space, making sure to keep his head down. A small part of him still feared that this was one of the Entity's tricks, and that any second now, Bill would set upon him. Just be ready, Ron… If he comes at you, smack his hand away and run.

"Ron, are you there?" Bill patted his shoulder, and Ron felt panic shoot through him.

He smacked Bill's hand away, retreating back to the bedside table immediately. Don't hurt me! Please!

"Sorry…" Bill quickly apologized, while Ron tried to regain himself. I need to relax. Just breathe. "I didn't mean to startle you… There's nothing to be embarrassed about. I'll clean up the mess, while you go take a shower. We don't even need to get mum and dad involved."

"Really?" Ron muttered, and Bill gave him a soft, sleepy smile. "I… Thank you, Bill… I'm really sorry about this." I'm his headache now… Daphne deserved far better than me. How miserable did I really make her?

"It's okay," Bill said. "Now, go on. Take a shower, and put on another pair of pajamas."

Ron nodded weakly, and then he dragged his feet towards the door. Wait… What if he tells the others?

"Um… Bill?" Ron turned back around.

"Yeah?" Bill looked to him, his wand aimed at the soiled bed.

"Please don't tell anyone…" Ron all but pleaded.

"I won't say a word, I promise," Bill assured him. "This stuff happens when people are stressed, and you've been through a lot lately."

Bill had no idea how right he was…

The Universe had broken Ron down in every single way that mattered. I can't take this anymore, but I can't kill myself either. Then I have only one option left…

"Bill… Did mum and dad keep my potion?" Ron asked, and Bill blinked at him. "You know… The one Madam Pomfrey made for me? They used a fucking needle on me to get it into my blood-"

"Oh, yes… It's in their room, I think," Bill said. "Wait… You're thinking of using it?"

"I need it…" Ron admitted shamefully. "Please… I'll beg you if that's what you want…" I can't function like this. I need to calm my brain down before it suffocates from stress.

"No, don't do that," Bill said uncomfortably. "I'll talk to mum and dad in the morning, and I'll convince them to let you use it. But, Ron… You have to promise me that you won't abuse it."

"I won't abuse it," Ron agreed quickly. I can't risk the Cycle again… The Entity will become angry with me.

---

Sunday 31st January, 1994 (The Burrow – Evening)

Playing chess against himself was oddly entertaining, so much so that he was able to forget about his mountain of problems for a bit.

His body had sustained no real injuries, his mind, however, was a completely different story. Even before he had taken the potion, he had been feeling sluggish and weak, but now, he could barely move his pieces about. I wish this were Wizard's Chess. Then I could just say the orders.

His mother was pacing about the kitchen, cooking and cleaning without missing a beat. It was almost awe-inspiring… She looked so gone in her expression, and yet, her body knew what to do. She was absent, but her work wasn't suffering for it.

Maybe that's how he needed to be?

Life had treated him harshly, and would no doubt continue to do so, but if he could learn to mimic his mother's current behavior, gone but still active, he could push through and see the Cycle to completion. And along the way, I can find a way to free myself from the Entity. It will definitely try to stop me, but I can't be deterred… I can't spend all of eternity with that fucking thing.

"Is everything all right, Ron?" came Molly's voice, and Ron realized that he had dozed off whilst staring at her.

"I just got distracted," Ron replied, and Molly gave him a slow nod.

"Are you hungry?" she asked, her voice slightly forced. "I can make you something on the side."

"Don't worry about it, mum," Ron said, looking back to his game. Does it really hurt her that much to look at me?

There was an awkward silence between them, during which Ron dozed off again. Just as his mind travelled back to his plans, his mother cleared her throat and got his attention. She looked like she had something to say, but was struggling to get the words out. Should I just keep staring at her until she speaks-

"Your father is in the living room…" Molly started. "Why don't you invite him in here? You two could play a game of Chess like you used to." Huh? Where is this coming from?

Ron blinked slowly, his mind going over the idea.

"Sure," Ron stood up with great effort; he could always plan later on tonight. It's not like I'm going anywhere.

His mother looked a little surprised by his agreement, which he found particularly odd. Am I really that defiant? Maybe I should focus on giving mum and dad some peace of mind? Ron suddenly shook his head clear, causing his mother to go a bit wide eyed at his bizarre behavior. I'm doing it again… I need to keep my focus on the Cycle, not other people's emotions.

Without a word, Ron began making his way towards the living room. I'll get dad, play a few games with him, and once Bill's back, he can keep watch over me in his room. I need to make a list of objectives to complete. Eventually, I'll have to leave the Burrow, so I should start prepping as soon as possible. Ron stopped by his father's feet; the man was napping on a chair with his foot resting on the coffee table. If mum saw this, she'd go mental.

Ron's eyes focused on his father's face, Arthur's worry lines were starting to become permanent. Probably because of me. Ron hadn't forgotten his father's words, and truth be told, he wished for the same thing.

He would give anything to be more like his brothers… He would give anything to be someone else. Even if it's just for one day.

"Dad," Ron tugged at his father's toe, a blank expression on his face. "Dad, wake up and play chess with me."

"Ronnie?" Arthur groaned, one of his eyes slowly opening. "What time is it?"

"It's quarter to six," Ron looked at his Rolex. Daphne gave me this watch.

"Merlin's beard… Have I been asleep for that long?" Arthur sat up, his knuckles rubbing his eyes.

"Mum wants us to play chess," Ron said, and Arthur gave him a confused look.

"Oh… You're on that potion," Arthur remembered, looking a lot more certain. "Sure, Ron… Just give me a second to stretch my legs, and then I'll come join you."

Ron gave an aloof nod, and then he began sauntering towards the kitchen. Just as he neared the doorway, the fireplace roared to life. Ron turned to see blonde hair, and a regal posture. Daphne?! His lips quirked up immediately, some life returning to his eyes.

"Where is he?" Mary asked Arthur, who just stared at her with a surprised look. It's not Daphne…

The weak smile on his face died, and his eyes returned to being vacant. She's probably at Hogwarts by now.

"Hello," Ron spoke up before Arthur could.

Mary immediately turned to face him, pity marring her features. She extended her arms outwards, inviting him to find comfort in her embrace. I don't want to be touched. For a brief moment, Ron thought about leaving the room… But he couldn't do it, not when he had no doubt hurt her with his selfishness. Slowly, he pushed himself forward, eventually finding himself in a tight hug.

"You poor boy," Mary sighed in relief.

He nearly cringed at her words, why was she treating him so nicely? He deserved the worst from everyone. Ron kept his silence, opting instead to focus on not panicking because of her touch. If she turns out to be the Entity, I'm tossing her over my shoulder.

The fireplace roared to life again, and Lord Greengrass stepped into the room. His pale eyes quickly found Ron's, but Ron was sharp enough to hide his gaze. He might use Legilimency on me. What if the Entity kills him in anger?

"Ron? Are you all right?" Mary pulled back, her hands gently turning his head. "Why won't you answer me?" Shit… I forgot to listen.

"He's on that potion… The one Poppy concocted for him," Arthur explained as he stood up, his eyes looking towards Lord Greengrass.

"Daphne told her," Lord Greengrass said, and Arthur gave an understanding nod. "We were hoping to talk to Ron, if that's all right with you and Molly."

"Of course," Arthur said, shooting Ron a quick look. "If Ron's up for it, go right ahead. I'll let Molly know that you're here, we can all have dinner together."

"Thank you, Arthur," Mary shot the man a quick smile, and Arthur gave a nod before leaving.

Mary didn't give Ron a chance to voice his own opinion, pulling him towards the couch and planting him right beside herself. Now I know why Daphne gets rough when she's upset. Mary studied his face, her arms tangled with his.

"How are you, Ron?" Mary asked. I'm uncomfortable.

"I'm getting better," Ron replied distantly. "How are you?" Wait… Why am I trying to make small talk?

"We're worried for you," Mary replied. "Please, talk to us… Tell us what you're feeling." Again, I feel uncomfortable.

"I feel a bit woozy," Ron admitted, and Mary blinked at him. Oh, and my heart may as well be confetti. But other than that, I'm mostly just woozy.

"We should have come sooner," Lord Greengrass sighed as he sat down on a nearby chair.

"Has Daphne returned to Hogwarts?" Ron asked abruptly, and the Greengrasses exchanged looks.

"They've all returned to Hogwarts," Lord Greengrass told him. Not all.

"They all asked after you," Mary added. "Especially Pansy… Ron, are you really not going back to Hogwarts? A young man such as yourself needs his education, and he needs his friends."

"I'm not leaving Hogwarts," Ron said calmly, and they both looked genuinely relieved. "But I need some time to myself… I'm not ready to go back just yet." I'll go back once I've set everything up away from prying eyes. I won't be caught off-guard again.

"Daphne and the others will be so relieved," Mary gave him a weak smile. "What changed your mind?"

His own screams filled his ears, and he saw the Entity's bloodied talons flash before his eyes.

"I have to keep going… I understand that now," Ron said, and the Greengrasses exchanged looks again.

"So you won't try something like this again?" Lord Greengrass asked, leaning forward a little.

"No, I won't," Ron replied.

"Good…" Mary said thankfully, and then she kissed his cheek. "You already understand the most important thing, then."

Ron gave an awkward nod, and soon, deafening silence filled the room.

Lord and Lady Greengrass didn't look uncomfortable, and yet, something was bothering them. Ron could see it in their eyes; they were holding something in. Daphne must've told them about the breakup as well. I guess she's finally reached her limit… He couldn't help but feel a little guilty, despite being on his potion.

Daphne really did deserve better, didn't she?

"Daphne and I broke up," Ron said, deciding to end the silence.

"We know," Lord Greengrass said calmly, while Mary gave his arm a comforting squeeze. "She's just very upset right now, and when she calms down, you two will probably figure things out." I'm not so sure about that.

"She's just been through so much lately," Mary added. "You both have."

"I think that she finally realized what losing me will feel like," Ron gave his opinion. "She asked me not to put her through it again." What does that mean for our friendship? Will she distance herself from me? Probably.

"Don't worry, Ron," Mary started. "We'll help you in getting-"

"Ahem," Lord Greengrass cleared his throat, and Mary stopped abruptly. "Mary… We talked about this…"

Ron looked between them, what were they on about?

"Are you offering to help me get her back?" Ron asked Mary, and she shot a quick look at her husband. She clearly wants to, but Lord Greengrass is stopping her from interfering.

"The real question is… Do you want to keep dating my daughter?" Lord Greengrass asked, a hint of discomfort in his voice. Gods, yes…

"It'd be cruel to her in the long run…" Ron said instead, and Mary looked terribly bothered by his response.

"Think about what you want, Ron," Mary urged.

"I want to stop feeling like I'm setting her up," Ron said, and Mary closed her eyes. "She always told me that she was ready, but yesterday… I've never seen her so upset in my life." Ron then drew in a deep breath, his mind made up. "I'm just going to cause her a lot of pain down the line, and she doesn't deserve that."

"And you don't deserve to feel like you're hurting her on purpose," Lord Greengrass said, and Ron gave a nod.

"Exactly," Ron said. "I wish things were different, but they're not… Being normal isn't in the cards for me, and it never has been." When did things become so complicated? The original goal was to keep my Family safe, but now… Now, I've got so many people depending on me.

Ron pinched his eyes; he had so much work left to do…

"Ron?" Lord Greengrass called, and Ron broke out of his thoughts.

"Yes?" Ron looked to his mentor.

Lord Greengrass studied his apprentice's face, and then he looked to his wife.

"Can I talk to him alone?" Lord Greengrass asked.

"Of course…" Mary said, her eyes fixed on Ron's face. "I'll be with your parents, Ron… Let's talk about this a little more during dinner." I don't know how I feel about Mary wanting Daphne and I to be together… I mean, I appreciate the thought, but Daphne and I probably won't even talk to each other anymore.

"Okay," Ron said, and Mary gave his arm another squeeze before standing up.

She gave her husband a meaningful look, and then, she was gone. Ron and Lord Greengrass sat in silence, and Ron took the time to think about his chess career. In full honesty, I get nothing out of chess anymore. All it does is steal my Saturdays away from me… Perhaps I should focus my attention on my Ministry job instead? After all, from within the Ministry, I can make a much more profound impact on the war.

"I've been thinking…" Ron started.

"You no longer wish to be my apprentice," Lord Greengrass cut in, and Ron blinked at him. Mind-reader!

"How did you know that?" Ron asked, and Lord Greengrass drew in a sharp breath.

"I have felt you slipping away from me for a while now," Lord Greengrass admitted. "You have grander ambitions than even I, and you can't achieve your goals as a professional chess player."

"It's not personal," Ron felt the urge to say. "But I will never grow old enough to become a Chess Master, not with my conditions. I need to use my time more efficiently."

"I understand, Ron," Lord Greengrass said, his voice rather gentle. "I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors." Is he trying to cut ties with me?

"You mean our future endeavors, right?" Ron asked blankly, and Lord Greengrass waited for him to go on. "We're trying to create our own alliance, aren't we? You and I will still be working together."

"I suppose you are right," Lord Greengrass smiled a little. Oh, he wasn't trying to cut anything… He was just upset. Is this potion making me more paranoid than usual? "Ron? Are you there?"

"Is there anything else that you wanted to talk about?" Ron asked, his eyes refocusing.

"Yes, but I will wait until you are yourself again," Lord Greengrass said. Don't hold your breath, then. I plan to have this potion every single day. Until it runs out, that is. "Come, let's rejoin-"

"I need some information from you," Ron said suddenly, and Lord Greengrass looked a bit surprised.

"Information?" Lord Greengrass asked.

"Have you had word from the Fawleys?" Ron asked. "How far along is the Werewolf Sanctuary? The pack will be here before long, and I want them to have a home when they get here."

"Ron… Is now a good time to be focused on such things?" Lord Greengrass asked. Such things?

"What else should I focus on?" Ron asked. "Losing Tracey? Losing Daphne? Nearly losing my life twice within a single week?" The Entity? Fate? All of the horseshit that's threatening to bury me? "I have to focus on something that I can change, or else, I'll go insane."

Sebastian didn't know whether to be impressed by Ron's single-minded nature, or be terrified of it.

"I haven't heard anything from them," Lord Greengrass said after a short pause. Damn. Now, I need to contact them myself.

"What about our alliance?" Ron asked. "Has anyone contacted you?"

"No," Lord Greengrass replied, and Ron frowned a little. Do I have to hold their hands through everything? "But going by reputation, I'd say that Lord Fawley and Lady Longbottom have contacted their friends."

"And Sirius?" Ron asked.

"To my knowledge, he has done nothing," Lord Greengrass replied. Wait a second…

"Wasn't he supposed to join the Hogwarts Board of Governors?" Ron remembered suddenly, and Lord Greengrass looked a bit vexed.

"He attended one meeting, and then never returned," Lord Greengrass explained. What? "Technically, he's still a member, but he has lost all power within the room."

"Why didn't you take him with you?" Ron couldn't help but ask.

"I tried, but he was going through his adulterous phase," Lord Greengrass replied. "He has no interest in these matters."

Ron felt a bit frustrated, but his potion quickly cooled his temper. I need to do something about Sirius. He's got an open invitation with the Macmillans, but that could change given how long he's ignored them. Why is he making things so difficult?

"Can you please tell Sirius to contact the Macmillans?" Ron requested. "I'm not allowed to leave my parents' sight."

"For good reason," Lord Greengrass reminded him.

"I know," Ron nodded to himself. "So? Can you please do it?"

"I will see him tomorrow, I'm sure," Lord Greengrass agreed. When you all meet up to discuss me? "Anything else, Ron?"

"Just one more thing," Ron said, and Lord Greengrass leaned forward. "Daphne's grandparents aren't contacting her for some reason, and so her business plans are halted." Lord Greengrass furrowed his brow. "I don't know anything about your Family's history, but I'm worried that Daphne isn't asking for help out of stubbornness. She's like me, in that regard… So, please do something about it." I can't help myself, can I? I just need to get involved all the fucking time…

"Thank you for letting me know," Lord Greengrass said, and then he gave Ron a weak smile. "And thank you for not being angry with her, Ron, it shows great character." Great character? I just tried to commit suicide… My character is worth shit and piss.

"It's the potion, I'm sure," Ron said as he stood up, he wasn't in the mood to discuss Daphne. "We can go rejoin the others now."

"Very well, let's go."

---

Millicent Bulstrode's POV

Monday 1st February, 1994 (Girls' Room – Early Morning)

She would give anything to go back in time, to be there when Ron and Tracey were attacked… She should have been by their side in their time of need.

Millicent was emotionally drained, and she couldn't even remember the last time she was actually happy. It was definitely before Hogsmeade, but she couldn't quite picture it. Grief had a way of hiding a person's happier memories, a lesson that Millicent was currently learning.

Her wand began to hum in her ear; the sun was starting to come up. Millicent groaned as she reached for her wand, its humming dying down as she gripped it tightly. I'm up… Her body felt rigid, but she forced it to sit up. Why am I even getting up? She let out a loud yawn as she rubbed eyes; she was so bloody tired. I don't think I have it in me to run alone when it's this cold.

Out of habit, she fought down her innate laziness.

She rolled out of her bed, grunting and groaning like a wounded bear. The dungeons were freezing, and her toes curled up because of the cold, stony floor. Why do we have to live in a dungeon? It's always so cold down here, even in summer. She pulled out her running gear, and quickly changed into it without worrying about the other girls. Daphne was crying to Pansy all night, so I don't think they'll be up any time soon. Morgana, I can't believe that she and Ron broke up… It's completely mental.

She suddenly felt even more tired, why did this happen to them? Everything's ruined… It won't be long before we all find new friends… She felt dreadful when she realized that she wasn't capable of making new friends. She wasn't like the other girls, and most of the boys in Hogwarts found her awkward and off-putting. I'll just be the fat girl who collects chocolate frog cards by herself…

She had to dab her eyes at the thought, there was so very little strength left in her. Things were just getting worse and worse, and she didn't know if she could hold on for much longer. I need to run… That'll clear my head. Millicent moved towards the bathroom, her mind heavy with sleep and dread.

Once she had freshened up a little, she felt a lot more aware of her surroundings. And her fresh awareness helped her realize that something was off… Why is Pansy's bed empty? Did she sleep with Daphne last night? No… I heard her moving about last night. Millie looked towards Tracey's bed; the four-poster bed's curtains were now closed. Pans, don't tell me… Millicent crept up to Tracey's bed, and she silently popped her head through the curtains. It was dark inside, but her eyes adjusted quickly enough.

Daphne was wrapped up in Tracey's blanket, Tracey's pillow hugged tightly to her chest. The blonde witch had obviously been crying, and judging by her ragged breathing, she was grieving in her sleep as well. It was a tragic sight, and Millicent felt rather shaken by it.

Maybe they had made a mistake in coming back so soon? We should've stayed home like Ron. It doesn't feel right to be here without him and Tracey.

Millie looked towards Daphne's bed; its curtains were closed. Pansy must be in there, then. It was Daphne who was tiptoeing around the room last night. With that mystery solved, and being unable to hover near Tracey's bed for too long, Millie decided to be on her way. She was clearly trying to distract herself in the hopes of losing her will to improve. When will I stop being so lazy?

By the time she made it into the common room, the cold had done its job and fully woken her up. She still felt lethargic and weak, but at least her eyelids weren't closing on their own now. As she began heading towards the exit, she suddenly heard footsteps coming from behind her. For some reason, panic seized her, and she quickly turned to face her would-be attacker.

"Woah!" Theo quickly raised his hands as Millicent pulled back her fist. Theo?! "Please don't hurt me."

"Theo… Why are you following me?" Millicent sighed out as she lowered her fist.

"Okay… First of all, I'm not following you," Theo started, some of his smugness returning now that he was safe. "I was just heading towards the Black Lake, and I saw you-"

"I heard you creep up on me," she stopped him. "You were waiting out here for me."

Theo just smirked his usual smirk, though it looked forced and lifeless.

"You're so sharp, Millie," Theo said smoothly, but she didn't take the bait. You won't charm me so easily, Theo. "Fine… I was waiting out here for you. Some would call it creeping, but they'd be wrong…"

"Why were you waiting out here for me?" Millicent asked.

"I didn't want to run alone," Theo shrugged, and that managed to get through to her. I know how that feels… But does he really mean it?

Millicent looked Theo over; he was definitely dressed to go running.

"I figured that I'd be the only one who'd wake up for it," Millicent admitted, she was glad that she was wrong.

"I figured that as well," Theo said, and Millicent cocked an eyebrow. "Let's go?"

"Sure…" she replied slowly. What does he want from me? It's not like Theo to wake up this early without Ron dragging him out of bed.

They made their way out of the Dungeons, and neither of them broke their silence as they hiked up the Moving Staircase. Millicent had decided to wait until Theo said something, mostly because she needed to figure out his intentions. Of all of her friends, Theo was the hardest to talk to. At least for her… He always spoke in riddles and jokes, so much so that even Ron's cryptic and foreboding nature looked appealing in comparison.

"I need your help, Millie," Theo finally broke his silence, earning a startled frown from a nearby sleeping portrait.

"My help?" Millicent was a bit taken aback by his straightforwardness. "What would you need my help with?"

"Things are not looking good for us right now," Theo started, his voice dead serious. "The fact that we came back without Ron was stupid… Did you notice Flint yesterday? During dinner?"

"He was staring at us…" Millicent sighed out "I'm told that he expects an apology from us… You know, because of what Ron did to him when Professor Snape wasn't around."

"That prick deserves a beating, nothing more," Theo shook his head.

"I agree," Millicent said. "He's a grown wizard who threatens and attacks first years… It's pathetic."

"Right now, the entire school is showing us support," Theo said. "Even the Gryffindors seem to be on our side-"

"It's Tracey who won them over," Millicent blurted out, and Theo gave a nod.

"I know," Theo said softly.

"But it won't last," Millicent spoke from experience. "One Quidditch match, and we'll all be at each other's throats again."

"Flint will get bolder over time," Theo said with certainty. "Ron's not here to keep him in check, and Professor Snape is pushing the Silver Triumvirate to put an end to the infighting."

"They wouldn't make us apologize to Flint, would they?" Millicent asked. "From what I can tell, they're rather fond of Ron."

"Ron isn't here," Theo reminded her, and Millicent's stomach twisted a little. "Look… I want us all to stick together, but I can't convince Daphne and Pansy alone. Pansy gets set off so easily, and Daphne's become a different person altogether. You're the only girl who's managed to hold it together."

Theo had no idea how wrong he was… Millicent was just too proud to cry in public, but whenever she found some privacy, she'd cry as much as she could.

"Pansy and Daphne aren't going anywhere…" Millicent said, feeling disappointed in herself for not 'holding it together'. "We all just need some time to think… And to grieve."

They stepped out into the Courtyard, the chilling wind viscously biting their faces. Morgana! It's so cold!

"Fuck this…" Theo muttered, but Millicent put her hand on his back.

"We're going, Theo," Millicent said a little too firmly, and Theo tensed a little. "C'mon, let's get down there."

"When will this cold go away?" Theo complained, dragging his feet like a petulant child.

"We'll get warm soon enough," Millicent said. "Why do you believe that Daphne and Pansy are planning to leave the group?"

"I'm not saying that they're planning on it," Theo replied. "But all of us are being pulled in different directions, and that could end with us all being separated. Do you want that?"

"Of course not," Millicent replied hotly, how could he even suggest that?

"Then you have to help me," Theo said. "Daphne and Pansy will listen to you, Millie, but they won't listen to me. I need you to bring them out of your room once in a while." I can't believe I'm hearing this from Theodore Nott of all people.

"Why are you doing this?" Millicent asked, stopping them both. "This doesn't sound like something that you'd be interested in."

"What makes you say that?" Theo blinked.

"I've never seen you make an effort when it comes to keeping the group together," Millicent replied bluntly.

Theo looked almost hurt by her words, but before she could say anything, his features became smug again.

"Someone has to do it," Theo shrugged. "None of us will do too well by ourselves… That's just a fact." Theo then began walking again, and Millicent followed after him. "Blaise is being overly melodramatic about everything, Malfoy is a moody little shit, and Ron's got problems that we can't even relate to. You and I are the only ones who can focus on the group's needs. We're the only ones who can keep us all together."

"You sound a lot like Ron and Tracey…" Millicent couldn't help but point out. "You even included Malfoy in the group just then."

Theo didn't respond to her comment, obviously pretending like he hadn't heard her. Millicent didn't bother to get a response from him; she was already on board with his plan.

"The sooner we all start sticking together, the better," Theo suddenly said, and Millicent couldn't help but feel a little better. At least Theo didn't give into self-pity, and now, he needs my help. I can either keep crying in secret, or I can help him help everyone.

Her mind was quickly made up; complaining and crying wasn't for her.

"I'll help you," she promised, and Theo shot her a smirk.

"Damn, I'm good," Theo praised himself for convincing her, and Millicent couldn't help but roll her eyes. He was almost likeable for a moment.

As they neared the Black Lake, Theo suddenly stopped Millicent by grabbed her arm.

"Oi!" Millicent frowned deeply. "I'll slip if you pull me like that!"

"Shhh," Theo shushed her, his eyes fixed on the Black Lake's shore. "Someone else is here." What? Who?

Millicent followed his gaze, and she spotted a heavy-dressed Ginevra Weasley. What is she doing down there? The little lion was stretching, no doubt getting ready for a run.

"I think we've been ambushed," Theo said dully. "She clearly wanted to talk to us yesterday during dinner."

"She probably wants to know more about her brother," Millicent said, and Theo let go of her arm.

"We should leave-" Theo started.

"I didn't come down here for the scenery," Millicent said, and then she began heading towards the shore.

"Ugh…" Theo followed after her, being overly dramatic as usual. What a girl…

Ginevra turned around as soon as she heard their footsteps; her turtleneck was hiding her mouth and nose. Poor thing is freezing to death out here. What was she thinking?

"Fancy seeing you here," Theo smiled politely at Ginevra, jarring even Millicent. Two-faced serpent… How does he change his tune so quickly?

"Hi," Ginevra greeted awkwardly. "I forgot that you were all back… Sorry. I can come back later-"

"You've been coming out here all alone?" Millicent asked. "Even though we weren't here?"

"Well… Ron said that it's good for me…" Ginevra mumbled from behind her turtleneck, she was acting rather guarded. Yeah… She wasn't waiting down here for us. She wants to leave now that we're here. "I've been improving… because I thought it would impress him…" she finished lamely.

"Wow," Theo said, and Millicent elbowed his side. "Ow…" Prick, she's already feeling uncomfortable.

"I'll just go," Ginevra said quickly, and Millicent stepped in her way.

"It's a big lake," Millicent started. "Plus, we'll all be going at our own pace anyway… There's no need for you to leave."

"Are you sure?" Ginevra blinked. "I don't want to intrude-"

"You're trying too hard to not offend," Theo said. "It's causing offence."

Ginevra gave a nod, and Millicent stepped back and began stretching. None of them said anything, but it was impossible not to notice at Ginevra's fidgeting. Honestly, we treated her with a lot of care once… Has she completely forgotten that?

"So…" Theo broke the silence. "Is there anything that you'd like to ask us?"

Millicent shot Theo a quick look, and he shrugged with indifference. If you want to open that door, then don't expect my help.

"Is Davis going to recover?" Ginevra asked, and both Slytherins were surprised by the question. She didn't ask after Ron first? "Like my brother did?"

"We don't know," Millicent replied for Theo, who was clearly hiding his discomfort. That's what happens when you try to be sly with others.

"Are you lot going to be okay?" Ginevra asked right after. "Everyone's been talking about you…"

"And what have they been saying?" Theo asked.

"Well, everyone mostly talks about Davis," Ginevra replied. "A lot of the Gryffindors think that she was sorted into the wrong House." What? That's fucking stupid! Of course they try to claim anyone who shows them up.

"Do you believe that?" Theo asked calmly, while Millicent fought back her annoyance. She's one of us!

"I don't really know her," Ginevra replied after thinking. "But no… I think she fits in with you guys pretty well."

"She does," Millicent said.

The silence returned, probably because Ginevra picked up on Millicent's darkening mood. How could anyone claim that Tracey didn't belong with her friends? She was a Slytherin through and through! She was instrumental in stopping the twins from taking advantage of Professor Snape's disappearance.

"Is my brother all right?" Ginevra suddenly muttered. "Why didn't he come back with you?"

Millicent tried not to tense at the question; she didn't plan on being the one to tell the girl about her brother's state of mind. I can't believe that he tried to kill himself… Merlin, every time I think about it, my head starts hurting. I guess even Ron has limits, and he reached them without any of us taking notice. Morgana help her, she really wished that she could see him right now. She'd hold onto him until he broke.

"Why aren't you two answering me?" Ginevra asked, something flashing behind her eyes.

"He needs a little more time," Theo started, and Ginevra locked onto him. "You know about your brother's conditions, don't you?" The redhead gave a slow nod, her eyes widening a little. "Well, he struggles to handle his stress properly, and the attack has caused all of us a lot of stress… Don't worry too much about him, he'll be back before you know it." We're lying to a little girl…

"Has he started coming out of his room, at least?" Ginevra asked immediately.

"He has," Theo replied, and Ginevra relaxed a little. "You should pass this information onto your brothers, by the way; they were also staring at us last night."

"Sorry about that," Ginevra said. "It's just that we've all been owling mum and dad, but they've been too busy to reply back. I'll let the others know."

"And Luna?" Theo asked, and Ginevra just stared at him. "Your brother would want you to tell her yourself." What is he doing?

Ginevra said nothing to that; she instead turned around to start running. Millicent took the opportunity to frown at Theo for pushing himself into Ron's business, but Theo just shot her a wink. Seriously? What are you up to now? Ginevra took off without giving Theo a reply, something that wasn't entirely surprising.

"What are you doing?" Millicent whispered as they began running as well.

"Ron needs to come back," Theo said rather earnestly. "If his sisters start getting along again, he'll have more of a reason to return."

"Oh…" Millicent blinked.

"You get started on Daphne and Pansy, and I'll do something about Ron's siblings," Theo said. "We'll also keep Ron's study group going, yeah? It's a good way to keep up our image, and it'll keep Flint away from us on Fridays."

"You've got everything planned out, don't you?" Millicent asked.

"Not everything," Theo shrugged. "Just enough to make a difference." Well, you certainly made a difference for me. I know what I have to do now.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Monday 1st February, 1994 (The Burrow – Midday)

Ron kept his back turned towards his mother; she was no doubt watching him from the kitchen window.

With Bill and Arthur at work, it had completely fallen on Molly to watch over Ron. He obviously didn't need anyone watching over him now, he had learned his lesson through pain and loss, but regardless, his parents refused to let him out of their sight. Ron didn't argue against them, though, not this time.

They had every right to be… whatever they were… with him.

"You're walking around?" came a familiar voice, and Ron calmly looked to his left.

His past self was sitting on a discarded cauldron, his expression was difficult to read because of Ron's potion. I think he's genuinely surprised.

"I am working," Ron looked back ahead; he didn't need his mother seeing him talk to the winds. She already thinks I'm loopy enough, no need to give her further reasons to tie me up and leave me at Madam Pomfrey's feet.

"Working?" Ravenclaw Ron looked around. "Out here?"

"I'm planning," Ron said, and Ravenclaw Ron cocked an eyebrow. "Don't interrupt my thoughts."

"You're planning…" Ravenclaw Ron said slowly, and Ron drew in a deep breath.

"What do you want?" Ron asked dully. "Tell me, and then sod off."

"You should be resting," Ravenclaw Ron said, and Ron was a little shocked to hear that.

"Resting?" Ron looked to his past self. "That's coming from you?"

"I've been where you are now," Ravenclaw Ron shrugged. "It's hard to forget the World Eater's 'lessons', isn't it?"

A hint of terror seized Ron's chest, but the potion quickly buried his negative thoughts.

"Are you trying to find some common ground with me?" Ron tilted his head a little. "What? You think that because your boyfriend beats the both of us, that makes us blood-sisters, or something? Should we tangle our pinkies and swear to stand up to it the next time it lashes out?"

"Bitter… I should've figured," Ravenclaw Ron sighed out. "I'm just trying to reach out here, and you-"

"One day soon, I will have your life," Ron promised, stopping his past self mid-sentence. "I will find some way to hurt the Entity as well. And Fate. And all the rest. I'll make you all pay, just remember that."

Ron looked back to the fields of his home; he could still picture little Ronnie running around with his siblings.

"I'll kill all of you… Just wait and see."

---

Monday 1st February, 1994 (The Burrow – Afternoon)

"Ron, I brought you some lunch," came his mother's voice, and Ron turned around to face her.

She was looking at him with worry etched upon her face.

"Are you okay, mum?" Ron asked, ignoring the plate of food that was hovering behind her. "You look… worried."

"What are you doing out here, Ron?" Molly looked around, though she couldn't see much due to the mist. "Are you just enjoying the weather?" Yes… And I'm planning some murders? Want to join in? It'll help us bond, I reckon.

"It's a really nice day out," Ron 'smiled', and Molly took an instinctive step back. Shit. I probably sounded like a crazy person just then.

"What's for lunch?" Ron changed the topic.

"Oh…" Molly quickly sent the plate to Ron. "I made you some more Shepard's Pie… Are you hungry?" For Shepard's Pie, always.

"Thank you, mum," Ron tried to smile genuinely, and it seemed to calm her down a bit.

"Do you want to eat out here?" Molly asked.

"I'd like that," Ron replied.

"I'll just be in the kitchen, then," Molly said, and then she left rather awkwardly.

"I'll be right here," Ron called out, but she didn't say anything back.

"You're trying to win her over again?" Ravenclaw Ron asked. I should banish him…

"She has my wand," Ron turned back around. "I need them to hand it over to me soon." Why did I give it up?

"You are a fucking psychopath," Ravenclaw Ron shook his head. "Me? I just stopped giving a fuck, but you… Even I'm a little scared of you right now."

"Really?" Ron asked, though he wasn't really interested.

"You tried to kill yourself on Saturday night," Ravenclaw Ron started. "Everyone who knows about your actions is angry with you, and you even lost your better half yesterday. Oh, and then, the World Eater tore you to pieces right in front of me…" Ravenclaw Ron then looked Ron over. "It's Monday, today, and you're back to plotting and fighting… It's quite mental."

"I have no other choice, and you know it," Ron sat down on the ground; he planned to eat his lunch while it was still hot. "All of you bastards have taken my choices away from me." And the few good things I had going for myself, I ruined by being me.

"Don't blame me for what the Elders did to us," Ravenclaw Ron said. "I'm a victim, just as much as you-"

"Neither of us are victims," Ron cut in, his voice distant and cold. "But I'm not surprised to hear you say something so fucking stupid. You seem like the type who blames everyone but himself for his actions." Ron then pretended to cry, mocking his past self. "I lost my sister because I'm an incompetent cunt, so I'm going to break everything I get my hands on. That'll show the Higher Beings who's in charge."

"Are you done?" Ravenclaw Ron asked.

"Tell me, when Fate blew you to smithereens…" Ron started, his eyes locking onto Ravenclaw Ron's. "Did you curse the Higher Beings for ruining your plans? Were you upset when she destroyed your Horcrux?"

"Truth be told, I only remember seeing golden light tear the sky apart," Ravenclaw Ron replied. "One minute I was there, and the next, the Earth had been split open." Merlin…

"Great," Ron muttered under his breath. How the fuck do I fight something that powerful? She could fart really loudly, and I'd be wiped from history.

Ron began eating his lunch, his mind traveling towards more achievable goals.

He had been reevaluating his priorities all day, and finally, a structured plan was coming to mind. He was done with trying to be happy, his mind needed to stay focused on his goals at all times. He would save as many of his loved ones as possible, but the illusion of saving them all was now gone. He had been foolish to think that he could singlehandedly save so many people, and reality had taught him a severe lesson as a result.

Going forward, Ron was going to be a lot more cautious, and a lot less forgiving. Finishing the Cycle was now his first priority. He wasn't meant to live a normal, happy life; he understood that now. He was handed the chance to rewrite the fate of this Universe, and he had squandered that gift in order to sate his own selfishness.

"No more," Ron promised himself, his resolve strengthened by his calm mind.

"No more what?" Ravenclaw Ron asked, and Ron shot his past self a quick glance. Still here?

Ron studied his past self; there was something different about him. He was still wearing his crisp, black suit, he still had his sapphire, eagle-shaped broach, and he still looked slightly unhinged due his pale and gaunt face. Did he ever exercise? How was he so strong? Look at him… He's all gangly and whatnot. Ron kept staring, and his past self looked slightly bored with Ron's silence. What's his real goal? Why is he even here right now?

"Why didn't you have any friends?" Ron asked suddenly, and Ravenclaw Ron cocked an eyebrow. Logically speaking, I need to learn some Magic from him… It'd be a massive boon to my Cycle. But saying that, I can't trust him either. I need to learn more about him, and then I can decide on whether or not I need his help.

"I had friends," Ravenclaw Ron replied. "At first." Really?

"Who?" Ron asked.

"Padma, Terry, Lisa, Anthony… Mostly all the Ravenclaw first years," Ravenclaw Ron replied, there was no emotion in his voice. "They were the first students I killed when I took Hogwarts, actually…" Of course. "I just walked into the common room, aimed my wand at Lisa's face, and 'summoned' all of her teeth out of her skull. After that, everything just went… red…" Why did you do this?

"Why did you stop being friends with them?" Ron asked instead.

"Same reason why you've left your friends behind," Ravenclaw Ron replied, jarring Ron a little. "It hurts to love, and I got tired of being in pain." An honest answer? I didn't see that coming.

Ron looked back to his food, he didn't like that his past self knew the layer of his thoughts so well.

"And I didn't stop being friends with them…" Ravenclaw Ron added. "They left me."

"Why?" Ron asked blandly.

That is none of your business," Ravenclaw Ron replied.

"It is my business," Ron said. "You want to help me, right? You want me to end the Cycles?"

Ron waited for an answer, and eventually, his past self gave a nod.

"Then open your fucking mouth, and start talking," Ron ordered. "Or We will send you away."

Ron's potion was nearly overwhelmed by his sudden anger, but using his basic Occlumency skills, Ron managed to seize control over his emotions. I should also practice my Occlumency while I plan. I mean, I don't have my wand right now, so I might as well focus on a branch of Magic that doesn't rely on wands. Ron mentally added Occlumency training to his regime; he wasn't going to waste a second of his time away from Hogwarts.

He would come back stronger, and a hundred times more dangerous.

"After Ginny… died… I was lost," Ravenclaw Ron said coldly. "And hoping to ease my pain, I spoke to Lisa about my visions…"

"What?" Ron was genuinely surprised. "And the Entity didn't kill you?"

"It certainly wasn't pleased," Ravenclaw Ron stated. "But instead of hurting me, it let my actions teach me a lesson." Ravenclaw Ron then smirked bitterly. "Lisa didn't believe me, and the more I told her of the World Eater, the crazier she thought I was. In the end, I had to pretend like it was all a bad joke… She told the others, of course, and before long, everyone in Hogwarts was laughing behind my back. My own parents told me that I was having a 'psychotic break' because of Ginny's death, and instead of helping their own son; they threw me to Poppy fucking Pomfrey. That useless old cunt… The Entity fooled her into believing me mentally unstable, and I was removed from Hogwarts for almost half a year."

"You told Lisa Turpin about the Entity, but not Albus Dumbledore?" Ron asked.

"I told him at the start of my second year," Ravenclaw Ron replied, and Ron was once again left baffled. "I already told you this, but it seems like I need to do it again… I have lived through your life already… That's why I tried to make you change your path. I know where you're heading, and it's not a good place."

"We're not the same," Ron said. "Sure, some of our choices in life are similar, but we have very different goals in mind."

"Goals change," Ravenclaw Ron said. "Mine did, and right now, yours are changing as well." He's not wrong…

"Wait… If you told the Headmaster everything, then why did you kill him?" Ron asked, changing the subject.

"Because he betrayed me," Ravenclaw Ron replied. "I gave him everything, every little piece of information that I came across, but when I needed something from him, he failed to deliver."

"Ginny…" Ron figured. "The Heir possessed her."

"I searched the entire fucking castle," Ravenclaw Ron remembered. "But I couldn't find the Chamber… At the time, I was fighting the World Eater's will at every turn, just like you, so it kept its silence as a form of punishment."

"Ginny was never found?" Ron asked.

"The Professors uncovered her remains after everything was put to bed…" his past self replied, and then he adorned a look of mild disgust. "Dumbledore didn't help me in my search… He was too busy playing his games with his pet…"

"The Headmaster didn't help you because he was doing something with Harry?"

"The old man was trying to teach him some important lesson," Ravenclaw Ron chuckled mirthlessly. "My sister died alone in that fucking ruin, and all because Dumbledore was trying to sculpt the perfect hero." I hate to admit it, but the Headmaster does some really barmy shit for Harry's sake. "Potter failed in his search as well, and once the Heir had restored his power, he took Potter in the night."

"Harry died as well?" Ron asked. Bloody hell, he lost his Cycle at the end of his second year?

"No, Dumbledore found him in time," Ravenclaw Ron replied.

"Oh…" Ron nodded to himself. It figures that the old man would search for Harry.

"Yes, 'oh'," Ravenclaw Ron sneered. "Dumbledore wasn't even supposed to be at Hogwarts, and yet, he came flying in to save Potter from Tom Riddle Jnr's ghost. He didn't lift a damn finger when my sister went missing, but the moment his plans were put in danger, he searched all of Scotland." Ouch. "That's when I learned not to trust these people… My own parents didn't hold the 'Great Albus Dumbledore' accountable; they even had the gall to forgive Potter for not sharing the information he had on the Diary with the adults. That cunt told me later on that he could hear voices around Hogwarts, telling him that they were going to kill someone, and he never bothered to share that with anyone."

Ravenclaw Ron stopped abruptly, forcibly regaining his composure. He becomes emotional rather quickly. I guess that explains why he chose to dramatically slaughter everyone instead of just detaching himself. He was bitter and vengeful, and the Entity used that against him. Ron could finally see the similarities between himself and his counterpart. They were both driven by their emotions, and as a result, they had failed to take the logical steps needed to end the Cycles.

Ravenclaw Ron no doubt loved his sister as much as Ron loved Ginny and Luna, so when he had lost her; he had found himself exactly where Ron was right now. Lost and hurt… Completely alone. Ravenclaw Ron had then made the mistake of giving into his emotions, and over the years, they had turned him rabid and illogical.

Was this what awaited Ron if he didn't detach himself from everyone? I don't plan on dying at the hands of Fate, that's for certain. And as for the Entity… I'll do something about that cunt as soon as I get an opportunity.

His mind was fully made up now; he would keep his focus solely on the mission from now on. Distractions would lead to his downfall, just as they had for Ravenclaw Ron. If I hadn't been so distracted, Tracey would still be with us.

"I'm sorry about your Ginny," Ron finally broke the silence. "No matter… the timeline… she deserves better." Bloody hell, my life is all manner of fucked, isn't it? No wonder Lisa Turpin thought my past self was insane, I'd think the same if I didn't know any better.

Ravenclaw Ron gave an indifferent nod, his eyes fixed on Ron's. What? Why are you staring at me?

"I'm sorry about your friend…" Ravenclaw Ron said a little awkwardly, was he trying to sound honest? "She was… funny…" He's clearly not very good at talking to people, or even complimenting them.

"She was," Ron said after a little while. "You don't know of any way to-"

"Sorry," Ravenclaw Ron stopped him short. "I don't know anything about Healing Magic, and from what I've seen in your memories, her condition is mental, not physical. She's in a coma, and if we try to force her to wake up, her brain could reboot, or something…" The Healers put it far more eloquently, but they said the same thing.

"Or something?" Ron cocked an eyebrow.

"Like I said, I'm no Healer," Ravenclaw Ron rolled his eyes. "If it was physical, Fawkes' tears would have brought her back, right? They can heal any physical ailment, after all." I didn't think of that.

"Right," Ron nodded slowly.

"Then it goes to say that it's mental," Ravenclaw Ron said. "You should try to think a little more deeply about things, it could save your life one day."

"Do you think she'll ever wake up on her own?" Ron asked, and his past self looked a little uncomfortable. "Be honest, I'm not really capable of feeling upset right now."

"It could happen," Ravenclaw Ron sighed out. "But it probably won't."

"Then I'll pray to get lucky," Ron decided as he finished up his food. "She's not dead yet, even if you want me to believe that she is."

"What?" Ravenclaw Ron blinked.

"C'mon… The Tracey following me around?" Ron asked bluntly, his mind had finally caught up to him. "That was you, right? The real Tracey would never ask me to do something like that. I was just too emotional to see that at the time, but now, her vicious behavior really stands out to me." That wasn't my Tracey, I'm sure of it.

"What the fuck are you talking about?" Ravenclaw Ron asked, a slightly annoyed look on his face. "I've seen your memories, and I don't recall you being followed around by your dead friend."

Ron stared at his past self, and his past self stared right back.

"You and the Entity weren't trying to feed my anger?" Ron finally asked.

"Again, I ask… What the fuck are you talking about?" Ravenclaw Ron asked.
"The World Eater can't even wipe its own arse right now, and you sealed me away within your mind. Remember?" Honestly, I have no idea what happened to you after you got banished. Was I just seeing things? And why can't my past self see my hallucination within my memories?

Something was definitely off, and Ron figured that either he was going insane, or the Higher Beings were fucking with him again. I should start charging everyone who goes out of his or her way to fuck me… I could easily buy myself a gaudy manor, then. He pushed these useless thoughts out of his head; they were definitely the sorts of thoughts that would distract him. Whoever that Tracey was, fuck her. I don't need that mental bitch in my life.

"Oi, are you there?" his past self snapped his fingers. "You're completely sedated, aren't you?"

"I'm glad we had this little talk," Ron said as he stood up, ignoring his past self's confusion. "You helped me realize something very important."

"Is that so?" Ravenclaw Ron asked. "Please, enlighten me."

"I'm going to learn from your example," Ron replied. "And do the exact opposite thing you did. I'm going to complete the Cycle, but not because someone is forcing me to. I'm going to complete the Cycle because that's my only way out."

"Speak plainly," Ravenclaw Ron said. "What are you trying to say?"

"Fate, and all of her fucking siblings, can go fuck themselves," Ron stretched like a well-fed cat. "Oh, and the Entity can eat my shit."

Ravenclaw Ron smirked a little, but he quickly schooled his features.

"How colorful," Ravenclaw Ron mimicked Ron's indifference.

"I will keep marching forward, and if anything gets in my way, I'll crush it beneath my heel," Ron promised himself. "And one day soon, I'll be rid of all of my enemies. I will free myself from these Cycles, no matter what." I will finally have peace when I'm free from this life.

---

Monday 1st February, 1994 (The Burrow – Evening)

"Checkmate," Ron said, and Molly let out a frustrated sigh.

"You don't have to say it, Ronald…" Molly said shortly, and Ron couldn't help but smirk a little. "I can see the board for myself."

"I like to make it official," Ron shrugged, and Molly gave him a bland look. She's finally acting a little more like herself. I should keep behaving myself, and eventually, she'll give me back my wand. "Want to play again?"

"No, thank you," Molly stood up. Damn, I was starting to enjoy it. "Your father and brother will be home soon, and I still haven't started setting up the dinner table yet."

"I can do that, if you like," Ron offered. "You can finish your roast in the meantime."

"Oh… Sure…" Molly nodded weakly; she looked a bit surprised. "Thank you, Ronnie…"

"No worries," Ron got out of his chair, quickly getting go to work.

He decided to forego using Wandless Magic; he didn't want to upset his mother by using Magic without her permission. There was no need to cause her any further pain.

Within minutes, the entire table was ready for guests, and Ron was sitting back down in his chair, waiting for his mother to join him. Molly came over soon enough, a large roast sizzling in the floating pan behind her. It smells so amazing. I swear, this potion makes everything so much better. Food tastes better. The air smells nicer. The world looks a little more colorful. And no anxiety comes in to ruin your day. Sadly, I need to use the vials I stored away sparingly. I can't let my Family think that I'm abusing this potion; they'll take it away from me.

"Are you hungry?" Molly asked him. "You can start eating now if you want. I'll cut you the biggest piece."

"Really?" Ron smiled a little. "Thanks, mum, that'd be great." I made the right choice by behaving myself. This is better for the both of us.

Molly smiled a little, and then she quickly used her wand to fill up his plate. Ron dug right in, mostly because he knew his mother appreciated that sort of devotion to her craft.

Maybe he was being a little manipulative by pretending to be someone else… But was that so wrong? He didn't want to fight with her, and he knew that she didn't want to fight with him. I tried being myself, and they never took to me… Still, they've been there for me through all of this… I should thank them by being a son who they can be proud of, even if I have to pretend to be someone else. It'll certainly make my Cycle less hectic, and they'll be happy for a change. A voice in the back of his head asked him about his own happiness, but Ron quickly extinguished all whispers of doubt.

He was done reaching for things beyond his undeserving hands.

"This is really good, mum," Ron said after swallowing his bite. "Did you add something new to your recipe?"

"It's the same as always, Ronnie," Molly looked a bit relieved to see him eating again. "The potion's helped you find your appetite again…"

Molly then sat down, a hesitant look on her face.

"What is it, mum?" Ron asked, stopping his dinner.

"After you went to Bill's room, the rest of us talked about… what happened…" Molly started. "And we've decided to not tell anyone else."

"You're not going to tell Pandora?" Ron asked.

"Not until she's had the baby," Molly sighed out; she sounded quite guilty. I put her in this position… "I've had seven children, and every single time, the last couple of months put enormous stress on my body and mind… Pandora doesn't need to worry about this right now."

"I understand," Ron said.

"Do you?" Molly asked immediately, a troubled look on her face. "Because this can't happen again, Ronnie… It can never happen again." And it won't.

"I understand," Ron promised, and Molly gave him a slow nod.

"Good…" she muttered under her breath. "Sebastian has sent an owl to Daphne, she'll tell the others to keep quiet about this as well."

"I'm sorry for making you lie to everyone," Ron apologized, some guilt seeping through despite the potion's soothing effects. "I won't do something like this again, I promise."

Molly drew in a deep breath, and then she gestured him to return to his dinner.

Ron didn't need to be told twice.

---

Hermione Granger's POV

Monday 1st February, 1994 (Gryffindor Tower – Dinner)

She had decided to skip dinner tonight; she had far too much work to finish.

Her studies were finally starting to swamp her, and her use of the Ministry issued Time-Turner was no longer helping her stay on top of everything. She was exhausted all the time, so exhausted that she often fell asleep in class. Her notes were beginning to suffer as a result, and she could already see herself getting a poor report card at the end of the year.

The thought filled her with overwhelming stress, and she began writing even faster. After this essay on Jupiter's moons, I need to start working on my 'dream journal'.

Her face twisted into a sneer, she really hated Professor Trelawney and her phony subject. It's a disease on the school's reputation. Dream journal… Ugh. She was honestly thinking of dropping Divinations and Muggle Studies; neither subject was going to help her reach her full potential. She'd lose out on getting twelve N. E. W. Ts, but ten was more than enough to get any job she wanted. I need accomplished witches like Professor McGonagall recommending me, not a con woman like Sybill Trelawney.

The curtain protecting her small haven of books was suddenly pulled aside, and fresh light invaded Hermione's dimly lit study table. She hissed at the intrusion, mostly out of annoyance.

"Occupied!" Hermione puffed up for a fight.

"I found our hermit, Harry…" Neville sighed out. Hermit?!

Harry walked over from the couches; he had a plate of sandwiches in his hands. Hermione's demeanor changed immediately, it was just Harry and Neville. I shouldn't be so standoffish… Mum always tells me off for it.

"Are you hungry?" Harry asked, a weak smile on his face. "Neville and I brought you some sandwiches."

Her stomach grumbled at the mention of food, and Hermione quickly fixed her features.

"You brought me food?" Hermione asked, she was quite touched by her friends' care.

"We've done it before," Harry reminded her as he handed her the plate.

"You sometimes forget to eat all day, Hermione," Neville said, worry written over his brow as usual. "It's not healthy."

"I'm not sick, if that's what you're suggesting," Hermione said, and she immediately scolded herself for sounding confrontational. "I mean… Thank you for worrying about me…"

She quickly began eating her food, avoiding looking at her boys in order to stop herself from further embarrassing herself. Neville and Harry just exchanged looks, looking quite amused with her odd behavior.

"Did you see the Slytherins?" Hermione suddenly asked Harry.

"We saw them," Harry gave a nod.

"And?" Hermione looked between the boys. "What were they like?"

"Same as yesterday," Neville replied. "They weren't talking, and all of them were just focusing on eating."

"We should ask them about Ron-" Hermione started.

"Ginny spoke to them this morning," Harry cut in.

"Oh…" Hermione was a little surprised by that. I saw Ginny at breakfast… When did she talk to them?

"They told her that Ron wasn't feeling up to coming back just yet," Neville said, and Hermione felt her stomach drop a little. "He's not in a very good place right now, but that makes sense given what's happened…"

"Do you think the Death-Eaters were behind the attack?" Hermione asked once again, they had been making theories ever since the attack.

"I don't think so," Harry said, and Hermione waited for him to go on. "I've thought about it, and it doesn't make any sense… I mean, Ron's a 'Blood-Traitor', but so are his other siblings… Why attack only him?"

"Because he's in Slytherin?" Hermione suggested. "That must hurt the Death-Eaters' pride, right? A 'Blood-Traitor' is Slytherin's best student, something that proves their beliefs to be wrong."

"They could have attacked Harry just as easily at Hogsmeade," Neville said thoughtfully. "Would they chose to attack Ron over Harry?" No, they wouldn't.

"It has to be because of Ron's stand against Blood Supremacy," Harry was convinced, and Hermione was slowly getting there. "They'd honestly kill a child just so they can keep pretending to be important. Pure-Bloods are-"

"It's a little more complicated than that, Harry…" Neville sighed out; he knew where this was going. "Don't put this on the Old Ways, all right? This was done by some evil coward, just like any other crime."

"But the Old Ways promote segregation, Neville," Hermione blurted out. "The Old Ways tell you to hate all Werewolves-"

"The Old Ways tell us to stay hidden from the Muggles," Neville corrected her. "The hatred towards the Werewolves comes from the fact that they seek to infect others whenever they turn, and they risk the Statute of Secrecy in the process. Now, I have nothing against Werewolves, but to say that they don't pose a risk to our safety is incredibly naïve." Neville then drew in a sharp breath. "The Old Ways were made to protect the Wizard World, they weren't made to spread hate and cruelty. That's on people… You can't honestly tell me that there haven't been Muggle dictators before."

Hermione and Harry hadn't expected such vigor from Neville, and it only further proved to Hermione that he was starting to outgrow his timid nature. And he's got a good point… Damn, how do I argue against that?

"Look, whatever happened with Ron… Let's just stop talking about it," Neville said, feeling a little guilty for being so firm with his friends. "I'm going to try and talk to Nott tomorrow, and hopefully, we can send Ron our condolences."

"I think that's a good plan," Harry patted Neville on the back, no doubt pleased with Neville's sudden decisiveness. "Hermione? What do you think?"

"Yes, it's a good plan," Hermione agreed, her eyes lingering on Neville. I can barely remember what he was like in first year.

"Sorry if I upset you, mate," Harry said to Neville. "I wasn't trying to suggest that your Family would ever do something like this."

"I know," Neville gave Harry a sorry smile. "I'm just… unhappy… with what happened to Tracey, that's all."

"How did your grandmother take the news?" Hermione asked. "You owled her, didn't you?"

"She told me to keep my head in my studies…" Neville sighed out. Why is she so mean to him? I really don't like that about her. "Judging from how short her response was, I'd say that she's taken this as an act of war… She can really old-fashioned about this sort of business."

"If she helps the Aurors catch whoever is responsible for this, then more power to her," Harry said, and Hermione nodded her agreement. Right, I've taken enough time off, I think.

"Thank you for the sandwiches," Hermione said, and the boys finally noticed that she had demolished her food.

"Woah…" Neville muttered.

"Did you chew?" Harry asked, looking mildly concerned.

"I ate while you two talked," Hermione said defensively, feeling a little embarrassed over wolfing down her food. "I have to get back to my work, so could you please close the curtain on your way out?"

Harry and Neville just stared at her, and then, they sniggered and shook their heads. What? I really do have a lot of homework, and so do you!

"Best of luck, Hermione," Neville said as he stood up, collecting the empty plate. "If you get hungry again, I have some sweets in my trunk."

"Thanks…" Hermione said a little awkwardly. Be nicer to them, Hermione! They brought dinner all the way up here just for you. "You two are really sweet…"

Hermione then reached forward and patted Harry's hand, earing a confused look from him. Was that a bad time to show my affection? Harry chuckled and shook his head again. What? I'm trying to be nice!

"You're a bit weird sometimes, Hermione," Harry said as he followed Neville out. I know…

---

Sirius Black's POV

Monday 1st February, 1994 (Grimmauld Place – After Dinner)

"It's just demeaning, that's all I'm saying," Sirius said, and Sturgis nodded his agreement. "The kid's not a danger to anyone, and he never wants to go back to the Dark Lord. They need to give him a chance to prove himself."

"I agree with you," Sturgis said, hoping to dull Sirius' foul mood.

Dumbledore had called for an emergency meeting, and he had also taken the liberty of inviting the Aurors here. A whole cackle of Moody clones in my living room… I was supposed to have a nice night out. It's been so long since I've thought about anything but Tracey Davis.

Sirius' eyes darted towards James and Susana; they were both asleep in a dim corner. Gods… I should take them upstairs and give them a room. When was the last time they ate anything? Sirius then looked to Sebastian and Mary, they were seemingly shielding the Davis Family from being disturbed.

"Have you spoken to James?" Arthur leaned in from Sirius' right. "Sebastian says that they've decided to keep Tracey going through the potions."

"Really?" Sirius asked. "That's great news!"

"Is it?" Arthur asked.

"Of course it is," Sirius said, feeling a little better already. "She can come back, I'm sure of it. Remember the pup? He was in way worse shape, and he pulled through, didn't he?"

"The chances are so slim, though…" Arthur said, looking a bit hopeless.

"A little hope is better than no hope, right?" Sirius nudged Arthur, and Arthur gave him a weak smile.

"You're right, of course…" Arthur said, and Sirius smirked smugly.

"When did I become wiser than you, Arthur?" Sirius asked, and Sturgis looked at Sirius as if he were delusional. "What? I can be wise, can't I?"

"No," Sturgis looked back ahead. "Can't see it."

"Well, fuck you, then," Sirius frowned a little, earning a chuckle out of Arthur and Sturgis. I want to go sit with Remus.

Sirius shot a quick look at Remus; his brother was talking to Nymphadora about something in hushed whispers. He's probably telling her about that Werewolf pack they found together. Is Ron still planning to go through with his plans? I haven't seen the kid since the attack-

"Now that everyone is here, we can begin!" Minerva announced, gaining everyone's attention.

Once the noise had died down, Minerva looked to Dumbledore to start the meeting. The old man smiled his usual smile at everyone, though his eyes were missing their usual twinkle. Harry mentioned that Dumbledore rarely leaves his tower nowadays. Is it because of Tracey's coma? Could he really care that much about each student? Probably…

"Let me start by welcoming Rufus Scrimgeour, Gawain Robards, and Jane Roberts to our Headquarters," Dumbledore started, and everyone looked to the Aurors.

They were a grim lot, staring blankly at Dumbledore as he addressed them.

"Why isn't Amelia Bones here?" Emmeline suddenly asked. "She's also in on this, right?" Who knows? Apparently, all the decisions of note now happen behind closed doors.

Some of the original Order members weren't too pleased with Dumbledore's new methods, and Sirius was one such member. The old man was more ruthless than before, taking a woman prisoner and forcing her son to lay down his wand. Sirius could, however, excuse Narcissa's imprisonment… She was a vile bitch, and she had done far worse to others. As for Draco, it was in the boy's best interest to stay away from the fighting. He was the sensitive sort, and during times of war, people of that nature never lasted long…

But what Sirius couldn't excuse was Dumbledore going to the Ministry without consulting everyone else… The old man had only gone to the 'leaders of the Order', leaving the rest to figure things out on their own. He's brought the man who arrested me into my home… Gawain fucking Robards… He broke my jaw during the arrest, and the Ministry Officials didn't even bother to heal me before shipping me off to Azkaban. I couldn't even eat properly for the first six months… Thank Merlin for my Animagus form; Padfoot heals much faster than I do.

"Amelia will not be involved with any Order business," Rufus said. "As for us, we're here just to stay informed on the Order's movements." You're here to keep us in line, then… This was a bad idea.

"And you will share the Ministry's movements with us," Snape said coldly, and Sirius couldn't help but nod in agreement. "We are fighting on the same side, and communication is vital-"

"I never agreed to anything of the sort," Rufus said, not even looking at Snape. "I will keep you informed of our movements, but I will not betray the Ministry."

"Neither will I," Robards added, and Sirius grit his teeth. Did you follow your laws when you rendered me unable to speak? Fucking hypocrites… They were just as ruthless as the Death-Eaters, and now they pretend like that's what saved them. Pfft… If it weren't for Lily and James, we'd all be fucking dead right now.

"You will not try to cheat us, Rufus," Dumbledore said, a certain finality to his voice. "I invited you here because I thought that you'd operate in good faith, but if this is how you intend to behave, then I will send you on your way." Yes, Dumbledore. Teach these pricks some humility.

"Rufus…" Moody growled, giving the man a meaningful look.

Rufus Scrimgeour looked around the room, his yellow eyes moving with alarming speed.

"Then we will be on our way," Rufus stood up, and both Robards and Roberts followed suit.

"Oh, for Merlin's sake…" Nymphadora rolled her eyes as she shot out of her seat. "The Aurors are moving against the Vampires two days from now. Luka Yahontov and Paul Durand will be coming here with a sizable force tomorrow, and the third, we'll be moving into Knockturn Alley."

"Quiet," Roberts hissed, something dangerous flashing behind her eyes. "Tonks, you will cease this insubordination-"

"We're all on the same side!" Nymphadora said, looking thoroughly vexed. "Do you want to know about the Order's movements? Just ask, and they'll tell you. There's no need for us to distrust each other. We all want to defeat the Dark Lord, don't we?!"

"Well said, Nymphadora," Dumbledore smiled more fully, some life returning to his eyes. "Rufus, she speaks wisely… Sit back down, and let us come to terms." Fuck the terms, we already know what they're up to. We should let them leave.

The Head-Auror just glared at Nymphadora, and when she started looking a little nervous, Sirius nearly got up and smacked the stubborn prick.

"Anger is our enemy's weapon," Remus spoke up, while Nymphadora averted her gaze. "We shouldn't let it muddle our senses. Let's start again, and try to look towards the future instead of the past." Merlin, he even sounds smarter now. I bet he's everyone's favorite Professor at Hogwarts.

"Remus is right," Kingsley urged. "The Great War was nearly lost because the Order and the Ministry were divided. We can't take the same risk again. The Dark Lord will do his best to conquer the Ministry from within, which is exactly why the Order needs to know about our movements. If we are compromised, then the Order can help us clean our house."

"And what if someone here betrays the Order?" Roberts asked.

"The chances of that happening are much slimmer than one of you accepting a cheeky bribe on the side," Sirius said, and the Aurors all looked to him.

Sirius kept his eyes on Robards, and the burly, grey-haired wizard showed no signs of remembering his boot on Sirius' jaw. Tensions were quickly starting to rise again, and Sirius had no intention of backing down.

"Everyone here has bled in the fight against the Dark Lord," Pomona said. "We've all lost someone to his madness…" People exchanged quick looks, remembering their lost ones. "We can't let him destroy everything that remains. Rufus, I still remember teaching you Herbology… You always had a sense of right and wrong… Even as a young man. Make the right choice now, and stop fighting the people who want to help you protect Magical Britain."

Rufus' yellow eyes dug into Pomona's, and then, he gave a slow nod before sitting back down. Nymphadora and Kingsley looked visibly relieved, while Robards and Roberts went back to being watchful sentinels.

"What is the Order doing about the Vampires?" Moody asked, deciding to get things moving. "Are we helping the Aurors?"

"Civilians won't be allowed past the borders of Knockturn Alley during the raid," Rufus told them.

"Raid?" Dumbledore asked. "Does the Ministry not intend to negotiate with the Vampires?"

"One of them threw dung at Minister Fudge today," Roberts said, and Sirius immediately smirked. "The Minister marched right into Amelia's office, and ordered her to 'throw the Vampires out of Knockturn Alley'. Any hope of negotiation is now ruined, especially considering that the Minister wants to lead any manner of peace talks."

"Fudge is forcing Amelia's hand," Dumbledore didn't sound pleased.

"Why would some Vampire throw dung at the Minister for Magic?" Pandora asked from the back of the room, she was leaning on her husband's shoulder.

"I too have wondered that…" Rufus said. "It was a petty thing to do, and it has invoked a petty response from the Minister… It feels like a set up."

"Could the Vampires know about your plans?" Moody asked. "Their leader was a crafty one, so his Progeny may be equally dangerous."

"Only seven people knew of when the raid would take place before tonight," Robards said. "This is the largest raid undertaken by the British Aurors since the Great War, and word of it can't leave this room."

"If I can be of assistance, you need only ask," Dumbledore offered his aid, and Rufus gave him a nod. "Now, shall we fill you in on the Order's movements?"

---

Two Hours Later

The Order members had all left for their own homes, with the exception of Sirius' friends.

He had managed to convince them all to stay for a few drinks, they all looked like they needed a break from reality. Even Remus had stayed behind, though only because Dumbledore and Nymphadora had forced his hand. If Sirius didn't know any better, he was seeing a connection between his old friend and Nymphadora Tonks. I guess he can't say anything to me for only dating younger women now.

"Want another drink?" Sirius offered Remus a refilled glass of Firewhiskey.

"Thank you, brother," Remus gave Sirius a grateful smile. "It's been ages since I had a proper buzz…"

"Well, you ought to accept my invitations, then," Sirius smirked. "You can teach during the day, and conquer witches at night."

Nymphadora shot Sirius a slightly bored look, much to his amusement. Little Tonks… What would your mummy say?

"I'm a little too old to be doing such things, Sirius," Remus said, looking a little amused. "As are you, by the way."

Nymphadora smirked a little to herself, and Sirius nearly started grinning. I'm going to tease her nonstop about this, but not yet. I'll do it when Remus isn't around to get upset.

"Nonsense," Sirius scoffed. "I'll sin myself into an early grave yet, just you watch."

"Of that, I have no doubt," Remus toasted Sirius, while Nymphadora shot her cousin a slightly forced smile.

Sirius decided to be on his way at that, and he walked back over to Arthur, who was currently talking to Xeno about the pup.

"Sirius, did you know that Ron is staying behind at the Burrow?" Xeno asked, sounding a bit lost.

"Yeah… They all took a week off," Sirius said, while Arthur looked rather shifty.

"Yes, but Ron has taken even more time off," Xeno said, and Sirius looked to Arthur. Really? Why? Is his stress hurting him?

"He's just not feeling up to it yet," Arthur all but whispered. "Um… Can I have another beer, Sirius?"

"Sure-" Sirius started, but Arthur suddenly stood up.

"I'll just get it myself," Arthur said, and then he all but ran off. What in the actual fuck was that?

"Normal people don't behave that way, do they?" Xeno asked Sirius.

"No, mate, they do not," Sirius watched Arthur down an entire beer bottle in one go. "Did he tell you anything else?"

"No… He just said that Ron's staying home for his mental health," Xeno replied. "It's odd that Ron wouldn't join his friends, right?"

"A little," Sirius replied. "Maybe we should ask Molly-"

"Sirius, may I have a word?" Sebastian asked from behind him, making both Xeno and Sirius jump. Fucking hell… Stop creeping, you corpse.

"Why don't you make a sound when you walk around?" Sirius turned to face the taller wizard.

"I do, and if you ever stopped yelling, you'd hear me," Sebastian said too calmly, and Sirius cocked an eyebrow. Pretending to be sober when you've smashed through an entire bottle on your own, eh? What's got Sebastian Greengrass so eager to drink?

"You're a mean drunk," Sirius couldn't help but point out.

"Can I please speak with you, Lord Black?" Sebastian asked in a monotone voice, and Xeno couldn't help but chuckle.

"Really, Xeno?" Sirius looked to the eccentric man, who just shrugged goofily.

"Sebastian, did you know that Ron is still at the Burrow?" Xeno asked, and Sebastian gave Xeno a nod. "Did Arthur tell you?"

"He did," Sebastian replied.

"And?" Sirius asked. "Well, go on… Why are you being so quiet?"

"Ron is struggling with to deal with what's happened," Sebastian said. "There's nothing more to say on the matter. Arthur and Molly are trying to be there for him, and we ought to stay out of their way." Right… "Now, can I talk to you? This is important."

"I'll go give Pandora a foot rub," Xeno announced. "She's been pacing because of all the stress, and her ankles keep swelling up." I remember when I had normal friends… Friends who weren't as cold as corpses, and friends who didn't announce weird, personal information out of the blue.

Xeno sauntered off to sit with his wife and Molly, both women were sticking only to water.

"Let's go," Sebastian said, gesturing Sirius to follow him.

"What is it?" Sirius asked, following the man away from the others.

"I wanted to talk about the Macmillans," Sebastian started, not beating around the bush as usual.

"The Macmillans?" Sirius blinked. "What about them?"

"Did you go talk to them?" Sebastian asked, and Sirius blinked again. "For the alliance Ron's trying to put together?"

"Oh… No, I haven't done that yet…" Sirius replied, and Sebastian just stared at him. "What? We've been busy with Tracey…"

"Sirius, you've barely left this house all week," Sebastian reminded him. "Molly, Mary, and I took care of the children, and I don't recall seeing you visit Tracey that often." Sebastian then looked equally stern and disappointed. Here comes the classic Pure-Blood father… "Do you have any other excuses?"

"What do you want from me, Seb?" Sirius asked, some of his old defiance rearing its head. "I don't answer to you, and I can do whatever I want. I'll talk to the Macmillans when I decide I'm ready, and it's as simple as that."

Sebastian's expression remained unreadable, but his eyes gave away his irritable mood.

"Ron asked me to tell you to get a move on," Sebastian said coldly. "I'll let him know about-"

"You've seen him?" Sirius asked, and Sebastian stopped abruptly. "When?"

Sebastian said nothing, and Sirius narrowed his eyes. Why is everyone acting so mental? Arthur is draining my limited alcohol, and you're being a right twat.

"Are you a statue?" Sirius asked. "When did you see him?"

"Yesterday," Sebastian replied shortly.

"He dropped by Tracey's room?" Sirius asked.

"I met him at the Burrow," Sebastian said.

"So you knew that he was still staying at the Burrow, then?" Sirius asked.

"Yes…" Sebastian replied.

"What's really going on here?" Sirius asked; his suspicion aroused. "Why is the pup still staying at the Burrow?"

A terrible thought suddenly occurred to him, what if Ron was hurt?

"He's not hurt, is he?" Sirius asked quickly, not bothering to hide his worry.

"He's not hurt," Sebastian said, gesturing him to lower his voice. "When I saw him yesterday, he looked just like his usual self."

"Distant and brooding?" Sirius asked, and Sebastian gave a nod.

"He wants to focus on something other than Tracey," Sebastian told him. "He asked me about your progress, and I promised him that I'd ask you about it." Shite… I mostly forgot about the Macmillans until now.

"Tell him that I'll get their support," Sirius said. "I'll clean up in the morning, and meet them for lunch."

Sebastian gave a nod, and then he looked to his wife.

"I'll be off, then," Sebastian said. "Just don't disappoint him right now… He doesn't need anymore stress in his life." On that, we agree… Fuck, I need to get my act together. Was I really using Tracey's situation as a means to procrastinate? Ron managed to remember my promise, and he's probably struggling to even function right now.

---

Ronald Weasley's POV

Tuesday 2nd February, 1994 (The Burrow – Early Morning)

Ron fixed the sleeve of his suit into place, it all fit so perfectly on him.

He had woken up even earlier than usual today, mostly because he planned to plot without any interruptions. His Family meant well, and he was glad that they were trying to be reasonable in their approach for a change, but they were all constantly interrupting him. It was impossible to find a moment to himself, and that was quickly becoming tedious.

But instead of getting upset and throwing a tantrum, Ron had decided to wake up earlier and plan out his entire day. He had started by drinking another vial of his potion, and it had brought him the peace he craved so desperately. After that, he had gotten dressed, and come down to the kitchen in order to stare out of the windows. Seeing the morning mist dissipate soothed him even more, and he imagined his troubles vanishing in a similar fashion.

It was enough to bring a small smile to his face.

"Ron?" came his brother's voice, and Ron broke out of his daze. Already? "What are you doing down here? Why aren't you asleep?"

"I couldn't sleep," Ron turned to face Bill, who was looking half-dead.

"Another nightmare?" Bill asked; his brow furrowed.

"Yes," Ron lied. "I figured that I'd just stay awake…"

"Right," Bill nodded slowly, a sorry look crossing his features. I'm sorry for lying to you, but if you knew the truth about me, you'd run away screaming. "Do you want me to make you some food?"

"There's leftover roast… I'll just eat that," Ron said. "I'm sorry if I woke you up, Bill, I didn't mean to worry you."

"No, that's okay," Bill said quickly. "Um… Want me to stay down here with you?"

"You don't have to do that, Bill," Ron said, but Bill gave him a meaningful look.

"Ron… I really don't want to say this, but I can't let you stay down here," Bill said, his eyes fixed on Ron's. "Alone, that is." Oh. Brilliant. I've fucked myself over once again… That'll be five Knuts, please.

"I understand," Ron said, he really needed to find some privacy.

---

Tuesday 2nd February, 1994 (The Burrow – Lunchtime)

His mother went about her work, listening to Celestina Warbeck's latest single on the radio.

Ron mostly focused on his lunch; his mother was trying to fatten him up for some reason. I should start doing my circuit training tonight. I'd hate to lose all of my progress due to overeating.

"Pardon my intrusion," came a very familiar voice, and Ron immediately looked to see Professor Snape standing in the doorway. What is he doing here? And in the middle of the day?

His mother gasped from surprise, her wide eyes looking Professor Snape up and down. Ron was certainly surprised, but he settled for quietly studying the man. If Professor Snape was here, then he had something important to share.

"I can come back later, if now is not a good time," Snape said, his black eye moving towards Molly.

"No! No, come in!" Molly quickly walked over and pulled back a chair. "Arthur and I have been trying to get a hold of you ever since…" she trailed off. "Um… Please, come sit down."

Snape limped over, though he didn't sit down.

"The Headmaster told me that you and your husband wished to thank me," Snape said, but before Molly could say anything; he went on. "I assure you, there is no need for it. I did what any other member of Hogwarts' staff would do. Nothing more."

"Still… Thank you," Molly smiled a little, and Snape gave her a curt nod before looking to Ron.

"Thank you, Professor Snape," Ron said, and Snape narrowed his eye. Fuck… Did he see through me again? How is he doing this? Can he bypass the Entity now?

"I would like to speak to Ron alone," Snape said, his eye fixed on the redhead.

"Um… Sure," Molly said slowly. "I'll just go do the laundry…"

"We'll be right outside," Snape said, and then he gestured Ron towards the door. Any sensible person would ignore an invitation from such a shady looking bloke...

"I'll see you in a bit, mum," Ron got out of his chair, deciding to do as he was told.

His mother gave him a comforting look, and then she went back to her duties. Ron led the way out, and Snape followed after him without making a sound. Did he Silence his cane? Clever.

The wind was bitterly cold, but Ron enjoyed its chill upon his face nonetheless. Merlin, I really love this potion. I should find a way to make more of it. Ron led them towards the well, his eyes scanning the surrounding hills. The bright sky was filled with rainbow-colored birds; his potion was painting him another pretty picture. It's not real, and I shouldn't let it distract me.

"You seem to be doing well," Snape spoke up as Ron came to a stop.

"As well as one can be in my shoes," Ron shrugged. "What brings you here, Sir? Don't you have classes today?"

"I do, and I will be returning promptly," Snape said, his eye studying Ron. "You are under the influence of a potion, aren't you? The last time I saw you, you couldn't even lift your eyes from the ground."

"I am on Madam Pomfrey's potion," Ron admitted calmly. "The one she made specifically for me."

For a brief moment, Ron thought he saw the Professor Snape of old; large and bat-like with two bottomless eyes. The potion… I need to find a way to get rid of the hallucinations it brings. Maybe my deranged counterpart has some useful tips when it comes to potion making?

"Ron?" Snape called, and Ron blinked at him.

"Sorry… The potion makes me see things…" Ron eyed Snape. He lost so much, but he's still going. Why did I need fear to move forward? Am I a coward? Well, I'm certainly not as brave as Professor Snape… He defied the Dark Lord despite all of the torture he was put through, while I just screamed helplessly as the Entity tore me apart.

"How much of that potion have you taken?" Snape walked up and held Ron by the chin, his eye looking into Ron's for any abnormalities. "It is a powerful sedative, boy, and as such, it needs to be used prudently."

"I barely had any," Ron replied. "Just one small vial."

"Your current state suggests otherwise," Snape let go of Ron, taking a step back. "Your pupils are dilated, and you have been swaying from side-to-side from the moment we stepped outside." Really? I didn't even notice.

"I need it," Ron told the man. "Without it, I'll go insane."

"What makes you say that?" Snape asked icily.

"I've had a rough couple of days," Ron reminded Snape. "Please don't tell my parents, I don't want to fight with them."

Snape drew in a calming breath, what was he meant to say to this child?

"I'm sorry, Ron," Snape started. "But I have to tell them to take it away from you. For your own safety."

"I'm not planning on overdosing," Ron assured Snape.

"And why should I believe that?" Snape asked coldly. "You've already shown me that you care more about your own needs over the needs of everyone." Ah, so he is angry with me. Fair enough, I deserve it.

"I'm a piece of shit… I know that," Ron said in a resigned manner, and Snape just stared at him. "And you have no reason to trust me after what I tried to do… All I can tell you is that I've learned my lesson. I don't plan to commit suicide anymore." Not until I've broken free from everyone's control. Not until I find a way to shatter the Cycles.

"And what has brought about this change so quickly?" Snape asked eventually.

Ron looked towards Snape's eye patch; he was never going to forget the sound of his own eyes being crushed.

"The Entity," Ron replied, and Snape stilled in his spot.

"You've spoken to it?" Snape asked, and Ron felt stress spread across his entire being. "What happened, Ron?"

"It was angry with me," Ron drew in a deep breath, calming himself down. "And it attacked me before I could say anything. It… tore at me… Relentlessly."

Snape closed his eye, his lips tightening into a thin frown.

"I am sorry to hear that," Snape admitted, he didn't even want to imagine what that demon was capable of.

"Don't take my potion from me," Ron said, and Snape looked a little uncertain. "Please, Sir, I don't want to go without it."

"I will brew you a cauldron of my Calming Tonic," Snape said. "Use that instead of the sedative, it's a lot safer." But it's so much weaker as well.

Ron thought about the offer, and in the end, he decided to take it. It's either this, or nothing.

"Thank you," Ron said, and Snape gave him a nod.

"Do you wish to talk about what happened?" Snape offered; his voice now slightly forced.

"No," Ron replied. "Neither of us wants that."

Snape gave a nod, deciding not to press any further.

"Did the Headmaster send you?" Ron asked suddenly.

"Yes," Snape admitted. "He is worried about you-"

"Then why didn't he come here himself?" Ron asked. "I'm not trying to be rude, I'm just curious."

"The Aurors are planning to raid Knockturn Alley tomorrow," Snape whispered, and Ron's ears perked up. "Albus is preparing to join them." Aren't the Vampires fortified in? Instead of raiding, they should try to push the Vampires out using public opinion. It'll certainly make the Ministry look less aggressive.

"Will the Order fight against the Vampires as well?" Ron asked. This is all very sudden… Should I contact Emilia about this? We do have that toxin-emitting weapon on hand.

"No, just Albus and Moody," Snape replied. "No civilians will be allowed on the streets during the raid."

"Why is the Ministry being so aggressive about this?" Ron couldn't help but ask.

"Fudge has placed himself in charge of everything because he was insulted by a Vampire," Snape said dully, and Ron rolled his eyes. Then a battle is inevitable. That dumb cunt will start a fight just to look powerful.

"Is Madam Roberts going to fight as well?" Ron asked.

"She is their top Hit-Wizard, so I imagine so," Snape replied, and Ron felt a pang of worry.

"Please ask the Headmaster to keep his eyes on her," Ron requested. "She is a friend of mine."

"Very well," Snape agreed. "But you need to understand something first…"

"What do I need to understand?" Ron asked, tilting his head a little.

"Albus pointed out that it was our fault for not breaking the illusion you had placed yourself in," Snape started, and Ron listened intently for a change. "I must admit, his words reached me… You often spoke about your desire to save every single soul that you care about, and I said nothing despite knowing better. I… I did not wish to take away your hope." Wow, he looks so awkward.

"You were just trying to be kind," Ron figured, and Snape looked even more uncomfortable. "I don't blame you, or the Headmaster, for any of this. Without you, Tracey would definitely be dead… It's only because of you that she still has a chance."

"You think she'll recover?" Snape cut in.

"I can only hope," Ron said wishfully, and then he gave Snape a determined look. "I will not throw away her gift… I will finish the Cycle, no matter what."

Snape didn't know whether to be impressed by the boy's strength, or to be terrified of it. Either way, he believed Ron's words, but not enough to let his guard down. Ron was intelligent, but as recent events had proved, he was also extremely unstable. Snape hated to admit this, but these were not the qualities of a leader… Potter wasn't all that bright, but at least he was reliable…

Is that why Albus had put his faith in Potter all along? Had the old man always seen Ron's weaknesses?

"You're staring at me," Ron said. "I'm not lying to you, Sir, I want to keep going. And if you and the Headmaster ever need my help, I'll always give you my best."

"I see," Snape said, something about the boy's certainty worried him. "Do you intend to return to Hogwarts at some point?"

"Soon," Ron said, his mind conjuring up memories of Daphne. Stop it, Ron, don't do this to yourself. Just leave her alone. "When I'm feeling ready."

"Ready for what?" Snape asked.

"To put up with other people's problems," Ron replied. "Right now, I have to take care of my own house." Plus, I don't even have my wand.

"Don't take too long," Snape turned to leave. "I have to get back to Hogwarts, I'll drop by later tonight with your Calming Tonics. Stop taking the sedative, understand?"

"Yes," Ron replied calmly. "Before you go, though…"

"What is it?" Snape turned to face Ron.

"Have the Aurors found Violet Parkinson?" Ron asked, and Snape's expression remained unfazed. "If she's still out there, then my friends are in danger."

"Do not play this game with me," Snape said coldly. "I know you found her, and I know that she's dead." Oh. "That was your plan, wasn't it? To take her life before ending your own?"

"I wish I was as smart as you," Ron admitted, why was he so below average? "You didn't even use Legilimency to figure everything out."

"First the Abadies, and now Violet Parkinson…" Snape said. "That's twice you've gone behind our backs, boy."

"And it won't be the last," Ron promised Snape. "I will complete the Cycle, at any cost. If you want, you can help me destroy all of my enemies, but if you disagree with my methods, then so be it. Just don't get in my way." Ron then drew in a deep breath. "You'll find her in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius… That's where I left her broken body." Do whatever you want with that information.

With nothing more left to say, Ron began heading towards the Burrow. I need to see Emilia about the weapon… Maybe I should have some Portkeys made that will take me straight to her Manor. Solomon could help me with that.

---

Gaspard's POV

Tuesday 2nd February, 1994 (The Fanged Grotto – Sundown)

"He is here, father," Natalia announced, and Gaspard looked towards her.

"Send him in, please," Gaspard said, and Natalia gave a nod before leaving. I haven't seen him in so long. I've heard that he's done well for himself ever since he 'left my shadow'.

Gabriel stepped into the room, and Gaspard immediately studied his eldest Progeny. The platinum blonde Vampire was dressed immaculately, fine ornaments decorating his silk robes. A true Cardinal, at last. A small part of Gaspard was disappointed in his son, but he would never dare show it.

"Father," Gabriel walked over and sat down, meeting his Creator's gaze. "You look well."

"As you do you, son," Gaspard said, a hint of familiar fondness in his voice.

Gabriel immediately looked bothered, his brow furrowing. What did I do wrong?

"Let's just get to business," Gabriel said coldly, wounding Gaspard a little. "I hear that you are short on time these days." Why does he treat me this way? Did I not give him everything he ever wished for?

"You have news for me, then?" Gaspard asked, deciding to give his son some space.

"I do," Gabriel straightened his back. "But before I share it, the Cardinals have some concerns about your recent activities."

"And so they sent my son here to question me," Gaspard realized. "You did not wish to see me, but the choice was removed from your hands."

"I volunteered," Gabriel leaned forward, looking as serious as always. "I want to know what you're doing down in this shithole. You are bringing far too much attention to our community, and you are breaking several of our Edicts. This cannot be tolerated-"

"I am above the Cardinals, my son, and you would do well to remember it," Gaspard cut in, stopping his son mid-rant. "None of you have power over a Knight of Hecate. My brothers and sister are beyond your 'Edicts'. If it weren't for us, Vatican City would be devoid of any Vampires. We settled it, and we created the Cardinals. Never forget that." Stubborn boy… Always making a fuss about his image. He has thrown his heritage away in order to please those would-be Lords.

"Your actions are bringing far too much attention onto our community," Gabriel restarted, trying a calmer approach. "Everything that we have achieved is being put at risk, can't you see that?"

"I can," Gaspard said. "But it is not my concern."

Gabriel drew in a deep breath, clearly getting frustrated again.

"You are putting our people at risk," Gabriel whispered icily.

"What people?" Gaspard asked. "The Cardinals? They have grown lazy, and their hearts have been corrupted by greed. They grow nice and fat, surrounded by their wealth, while their subjects starve."

"No one starves in Vatican City," Gabriel frowned deeply.

"Look how many have come to join my cause," Gaspard said, and Gabriel stilled. "They wish to be free of the Cardinals, son… You have all lost your way."

Gabriel looked around in an agitated manner.

"You are leading them all to their deaths," Gabriel said venomously. "Look at what happened to Michael because of you."

Gaspard felt his Curse weaken considerably, his tether to life weakening as a result. It was difficult to hide the pain on his face, and Gabriel quickly looked ashamed of himself. Cruel boy… Did my love mean that little to you?

"Father, I-" Gabriel started.

"Tell me what you have found," Gaspard said. "And then go back to your mansion. I will not call upon Vatican City for aid again."

Gabriel averted his gaze, looking like a scolded child.

"The French Minister is sending Paul Durand down to the British Ministry today," Gabriel reported. "The French Head-Auror is bringing a considerable force with him for this raid."

"And when is this raid taking place?" Gaspard asked.

"Tomorrow," Gabriel replied. "The French Minister has been invited by Cornelius Fudge himself."

"To bask in the glory…" Gaspard nodded to himself. I shall break the legend of Azkaban tomorrow, then. A fine achievement, worthy of our Curse. "The Russian Aurors will no doubt be here today as well."

"This will turn into a bloodbath, father," Gabriel tried. "Please, see reason…"

"My followers are eagerly preparing for this battle," Gaspard said. "Those who wished to leave were allowed to do so."

Gabriel rubbed his face, looking a century older.

"And Natalia… She is to lead this army?" Gabriel asked.

"You could share command with her," Gaspard offered. "And afterwards, I would give you my blessing to return to your comfortable life."

"I fear I must refuse…" Gabriel stood up, fixing his robes into place. "I will attempt to persuade a few of our kind to return to Vatican City with me. Am I allowed to do this?"

"Of course," Gaspard looked back towards the window. "Goodbye, son." This very well could be our last meeting.

"If Minister Wallace sends me any more information, I will return to share it with you," Gabriel sighed out, and then he left without hesitation.

Once Gabriel was gone, Gaspard felt a terrible weight in his chest. Did I really rob Michael of his future? And what of Natalia? Does she want to be here? Doubt gnawed at him, a feeling that he despised. I must not be deterred. Gaspard pushed all thoughts out of his head, focusing only on his mission. I will die a glorious death, and then, I will have my peace.

He would send Natalia away after this battle, but only if she wished it. Hecate will give Natalia an honorable destiny, just as she gave one to me.

"Father, the men have finished the traps," Natalia reported, and Gaspard turned to face his daughter.

She looked vibrant, as she always did before a fight. She will make a truly worthy Knight one day.

"The war begins tomorrow," Gaspard said, and Natalia's eyes gleamed. "Sharpen your blades, daughter, you face three legends upon the field of battle tomorrow."

"I will honor you, father," Natalia promised, and Gaspard had no doubts about that.

She was, after all, much stronger than him.

---

AUTHOR'S NOTES: There it is! I hope you guys found that worth the wait!

Next chapter gonna be litty lit!

Check out the Discord, it's on my profile.

I'll see you guys in a couple of weeks!