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.

141. Chapter 141 - Void

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Well, hello there!

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! Starway Man is a chad!

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Fate

Chapter 141 - Void

The Champion's POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (Four Seasons Hotel, New York – Morning)

"We need to talk alone," Ravenclaw Ron urged, frowning at Dumbledore. "Send them away, now." What's got him so scared? Still, he doesn't give me orders, that's someone else's job…

"Ronald, are you all right?" Dumbledore patted his shoulder. "What's wrong, my boy?" What isn't wrong? That's what you should be asking.

"I just heard one of the Sages in my head…" the Champion replied, deciding to keep his counterpart waiting for once. "They were asking to be saved, saying something about the earth rotting and the darkness consuming us all… It didn't make much sense, and it bloody hurt."

"They sent you a vision?" Snape asked, exchanging a worried glance with Dumbledore. "They must be quite powerful to have such a reach. This goes beyond Legilimency, Albus." That's not frightening at all. "What did they show you? Did they explain what the Curse is? And why are they suddenly reaching out now?" He lives within thee… His power shall undo his curse… 'He' is definitely the Dark Lord, seeing as he placed the Curse on the Site of Power. What the fuck did the Sage mean by 'lives within thee', then? And what power? Was the Sage referring to me being a Parselmouth? It's the only power that I share with the Dark Lord, but how could they even know about that? I've only told my friends, the Hat, Professor Snape, and the Headmaster about it. No one else, and certainly no one from this country.

"Ronald-?"

"No, nothing about the Curse… I was in some forest, and I heard the Sage in my head," the Champion sat up, ignoring Ravenclaw Ron's impatient frown. "They must be getting desperate, seeing as I didn't show up for the Tournament."

"So, they can send visions too?" Dumbledore moved back, stroking his beard. "Did they say anything else of note? Any hint as to what they need from you?" Damn, I have a really bad feeling about what the Sage said…

"No, nothing else," the Champion lied, his instincts compelling him to discover the truth for himself first. "…But I think they were trying to summon me…"

"I thought your mind was protected," Snape pointed out, his brow furrowed.

"I thought so too," the Champion shot his past self a quick glance. Twitchy bastard, just be a little more patient. We'll talk in a bit-…

"Are you seeing things, Ronald?" Dumbledore asked, following the Champion's gaze. Yes.

"No, just tired… Need some proper sleep, that's' all," the Champion replied, deciding to send them on their way. "I'll go to Ilvermorny tomorrow morning. Alone. I have to tell Octavia that I'm not going back on my word, and that I'll find some way to help her. What about you two? Are you still planning to stay?"

Dumbledore and Snape exchanged knowing looks, the younger wizard was not being wholly truthful, however, they both decided not to press him further. At least, not right now.

"Going to Ilvermorny alone is dangerous," Snape said eventually. "Harkin made it clear that he'd destroy you if he ever saw you again. He was unhinged, Ron." He does sound like a proper loon… I should ask his students about what he's like. I'm sure some have stuck around to watch the tournaments.

"I'll go through the front this time," the Champion started, thinking up a plan. "Where all the reporters and attendees can see me. I doubt he'll throw me out in front of them. I'm famous, remember? Famous and oh-so-tragic… Forcing me off the grounds will make him look like a cunt, especially because I'll be on my best behaviour." Might as well take advantage of that fucking sham trial… Fuck you, Fudge, I'll see you in Hell. We're not finished yet.

"You'll be famous and dead if you underestimate him," Snape frowned. "You're smarter than this."

"I like the sound of Ronald's idea," Dumbledore said, surprising even the Champion.

"You can't be serious," Snape said icily. "Have you forgotten our meeting with him, Albus?"

"In front of a crowd, he'll be forced to don his mask," Dumbledore elaborated. "Without it, he's an unpredictable foe, but with it, he is Asmodeus Harkin, the respected Headmaster of Ilvermorny. And it is not as though Ronald himself is helpless, I'm certain he'll manage." See? I'll manage.

"What about Greengrass?" Snape asked, souring the Champion's mood further. "He knows why you're really here, and he'll want to help."

"He's proven that he's willing to brazenly lie to my ugly mug… I can't have someone like that watching my back," the Champion remained adamant. "And I don't want to deal with him right now, not with everything going on. Actually, since there's no need for an act anymore, we might as well send Mr. Davis home too. He should be with his daughter." I can't believe the leaf worked so quickly! Imagine all the good these leaves could do. Could they heal Professor Snape's leg? Or, Tori's poor health? If only I could have a couple more, but it's too dangerous.

"And when will you visit Miss. Davis?" Dumbledore suddenly asked, giving the Champion a full-serving of anxiety. I could easily summon Fawkes and go back with him, but… Fuck, does she really need me dropping by, though? If not for me, she wouldn't be in St. Mungo's-…

"Why so quiet?" Snape cut into his thoughts. "Do you want to see her, or, not?" I do, but it's not that simple…

"Ronald, you must go to her," Dumbledore insisted. "There is something we've not told you-"

"He doesn't need to hear that right now," Snape frowned at the old man. Wait… They kept something from me? What happened?!

"He is bound to find out, Severus," Dumbledore countered. "Better it come from us, don't you agree?" What are they on about? What didn't they tell me before?

"What happened?" the Champion asked, feeling his chest tighten painfully. "Fuck… Of course, something went wrong… Just say it…"

"The Curse damaged her Larynx, her 'voice box'," Snape answered, still frowning at Dumbledore. "Speaking causes her great discomfort, and will continue to do so for the remainder of her life. The Healers have recommended that she reserve her voice for emergencies only, but even then, she ought to be careful." What the fuck…? This can't be true…

"She can't talk?" the Champion looked to Dumbledore, who shook his head with a sorry expression. "She… Oh, fuck…" I've ruined her life, haven't I? Robbed her of her bloody voice… "And there's nothing we can do about this…?"

Snape shook his head, making the Champion feel sick with regret and self-loathing. I should've been more careful, especially after challenging Yaxley and his lot… She paid for my mistakes…

"I am sorry, Ronald, but despite this ill turn of events, we must take heart in the fact that she is still with us," Dumbledore said, trying to sound hopeful. "Not all is lost, you must remember that."

"Take heart?" the Champion muttered, staring down at his lap. "Take heart in what, exactly? Tracey's life is fucked… Living without a voice, I can't even begin to imagine… Please, isn't there something we can do?" Both men shook their heads this time. "…Is there a place for her at Hogwarts? Without her voice…?"

"Of course, there is," Dumbledore promised. "Help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who need it. I believe Miss. Davis is still just as capable of learning, and even excelling, at Hogwarts as she was before." He sounds like he actually believes that…

"Her life wasn't supposed to turn out this way…" the Champion croaked, moving off of his bed. "This is all my bloody fault-"

"No, the blame lies with the assassin," Dumbledore stopped him. "And with those who hired him." I spared the assassin, though… I let him go because I saw his kid sleeping in the other room… That fucking prick just gets to walk away, while Tracey spends the rest of her life as a mute? I shouldn't have let him go… I should've cut his head off, not just his hand!

"Why would you keep this from me?!" the Champion felt furious with himself, snarling like a beast.

"It was for your own good," Snape answered simply enough. You mean, I was near a balcony, huh?

"My own good, he says…" the Champion muttered under his breath, rubbing his face harshly. "She lost her voice saving my miserable life… How am I supposed to live with that? What do I say to her when I see her? An apology won't ever be enough… I've ruined her life…" I'm so sorry, Trace…

"I know the guilt you're forcing upon yourself, my boy," Dumbledore started, his voice wise and comforting. "Please, don't put this burden on your shoulders as well. What matters now is Tracey getting the love and support she needs to meet the challenges that will inevitably come with her new life. She will need your strength, Ronald. You must stand by her, as any true friend would, even if it frightens you."

The Champion knew that the old man was right, that he needed to go back and see Tracey for himself, but it was still so hard… She'd lost her bloody voice in the process of saving him, while here he was, wishing that he'd died well before reaching Hogwarts… It made him feel like scum knowing that he wasn't worthy of her sacrifice, that she'd lost her voice saving a murderous, heartless bastard like him. She should've just let me die, honestly. Her life, and everyone else's life, would be much better if I weren't running about causing mayhem.

"Ronald?" Dumbledore called, still waiting for his decision.

"I'll go see her…" the Champion answered eventually. "But… I need some time to think, first… I still can't believe this…"

"We understand," Dumbledore said, rising and giving Snape a meaningful look. "Rest, take as much time as you need, and when you're ready, I'll summon Fawkes."

The Champion gave a lifeless nod, sitting back down on the bed and clutching his head. I'm sorry, Tracey, for everything… I don't even have the words to describe how much I've stolen from you… He sat motionless as Snape and Dumbledore left the room, breaking his silence with the occasional sniffle and grumble.

"Sorry about Davis," Ravenclaw Ron said eventually, he was now hovering in the far corner. "Well, not really, but I know she means a great deal to you, so… Sorry." If you don't even mean it, then don't fucking say it. Whatever…

"What bad news do you bring this time, eh?" the Champion looked to his past self, his eyes stinging. "Go on, you were in a right hurry to tell me before."

His past self only continued to stare, looking more sorry than mad, which frightened the Champion all the more. What has he discovered? What's this 'big fucking problem', hm? Whatever it is, it can't be worse than Tracey losing her voice, can it?

"Well?" the Champion wiped his eyes clear. "Are you going to make me wait all day? Tell me what's wrong, will you?"

"I don't know if I should…" Ravenclaw Ron said, studying the Champion. "It will only hurt you, scare you… Maybe I shouldn't have brought it up for now, given your current state-"

"For Merlin's sake, just tell me," the Champion ordered, feeling his insides squirm. "Don't be a fucking twat, all right?"

"All right…" Ravenclaw Ron sighed out, before tapping his temple. "Your mind might as well be a disassembled puzzle, it's in utter ruins. Memories scattered everywhere, entire hallways crumbled to nothing, though thankfully, I managed to restore the Hourglasses intime and put those fucks back inside before they could reform and cause even more destruction. What happened? How the hell did they get out? I'm assuming they're behind this, am I right?"

"Fate set the other Rons free… She gave them a chance to take over my Cycle, and they bloody took it," the Champion replied, surprised to see his counterpart's face fall. "She tied you up, though. I suppose she didn't want you getting loose ever again." Can't fault her for that, you're too dangerous to be let out. Ever.

"She really set the others free, the mad bitch?" Ravenclaw Ron muttered to himself. "Why? Why would she risk losing you like this? What did I miss?" What's he whispering to himself about? "What happened? Tell me everything from start to finish!"

"We all had a big brawl for control of my body, I guess… No, it was more like a slaughter, actually," the Champion frowned as he remembered the screams, shaking his head. "After I had won, she opened up this… golden portal… At least, that's what I think it was…"

"A golden portal?" Ravenclaw Ron's eyes widened a little. Yeah… What do you know about it? "Keep going, I need more if I'm to figure out what's going on."

"Not much else to say… I don't know what it was, but it was powerful. So powerful that I felt like I was being crushed just by standing near it-"

"What was the portal for?" his past self cut in again. "Why did she open it?"

"She asked me to embrace my greatest fears, to stop running from the name and role she's given me… She wanted me to jump into the portal, instead of jumping off the-"

"This 'portal' is starting to sound awfully familiar…" Ravenclaw Ron interrupted again, his eyebrow now raised. It does? Good, then explain it to me. "Did you do as she asked? Did you jump in?"

"I did, yeah…" the Champion nodded, feeling cold and alone as he remembered his starry tour. "It was… fucking mental, got no other words for it. One minute, I was standing atop the Astronomy Tower, and the next, I was falling through the stars." Their powers are awe-inspiring, even I can't deny that. "What was that portal for? What happened to me?" Dream mentioned some change, was this it?

"Before I answer that, tell me why," Ravenclaw Ron said, his gaze intensifying.

"Why what?"

"Why did you play into her hands?" Ravenclaw Ron clarified. "Whatever game she's playing, mate, it doesn't end well for you. I thought we weren't going to be pawns in their games. Isn't that why we risked it all and fought against the World-Eater?" I know… But what do you want me to do? I'm fucking trapped, and this is the only way out that I can see.

"She left me no fucking choice…" the Champion said defeatedly, mustering enough strength to move off of the bed and head for his trunk. "She's nothing like the Entity, there's no resisting her. The Entity… It hates me, but in doing so, it still feels something towards me… But Fate? I'm just another doll to her… An easily replaceable doll, I might add." The Champion stopped in front of his trunk, slouching over. "I tried my hardest, I really fucking did… But I just can't anymore-"

"Ron-…"

"No, I finally get what you were talking about," the Champion sifted through his trunk, lazily searching for his Calming Potions. I need my Numbing Balm too. Maybe I'm using too much of it, because I can't really feel my forearm anymore…

The Champion subtly pressed his right forearm, feeling little sensation in response. I'm definitely using too much. I need to be careful, or, I'll lose control over my hand. But the pain… It's fucking constant… I can't use my wand hand properly without the balm, it's impossible-…

"Are you all right over there?" Ravenclaw Ron suddenly asked. "What do you finally get?"

"What you said to me down in the Carrows' dungeons…" the Champion turned around slowly, a vial of the Calming Draught in his gloved hand.

"Woah… I thought you were going back to sleep-"

"I need it," the Champion said icily, drinking down the entire vial. "Come on, start working already, you little fuck…"

A feeling of tranquillity suddenly began to grow within him, and after a few seconds, the Champion felt whole once again. Better. Much better. The Champion then looked to his past self, noticing a hint of disapproval, but not caring an ounce for it. Why do I bother feeling all this pain? Because people tell me that these potions will destroy me? Pfft… What's left to destroy at this point, exactly?

"What do you finally get?" Ravenclaw Ron repeated slowly, looking both curious and wary at the same time.

"You told me that I was fighting too many wars, and that eventually, this would catch up to me," the Champion started. "Well, you were right, just like you were right about so many other things. Fate finally caught up to me, and I'm not going to fight her, not when I need to fight the likes of the Dark Lord and his horde of degenerate scum. There's just too much at stake for one person to fuck it all up for his own selfish wants. With Fate's guidance-"

"You mean her controlling you," Ravenclaw Ron called it as it was. "I can't believe I'm hearing this… We fought the fucking World-Eater together, only for you to hand the reigns over to her?! She can't be trusted-!"

"If I succeed, she'll let you and the other Rons go free," the Champion told his counterpart, stopping the maniac's rant short. "I proposed a deal to her, and she accepted. My life for all of yours."

"…What…?" Ravenclaw Ron blinked, something shifting behind his eyes. "She'll allow us to finally move on? She'll separate us from the World-Eater?"

"You don't sound too bothered, now, do you?" the Champion commented coldly, before removing his shirt in order to inspect his right forearm. "Damn."

The wounds from his claws were still on his inner-forearm, just as fresh as the day he had inflicted them. Tracing his fingers lightly across the wounds, the Champion found that he could barely feel a thing from elbow to wrist. This is not good, not good at all.

"What's wrong with your arm?" Ravenclaw Ron asked, clearly still thinking about his potential freedom. "Do those still hurt?" Not if I'm careful.

"I'm losing sensation, I think," the Champion replied casually, shrugging.

"It'll return, just stop overdoing it with the Numbing Balm," Ravenclaw Ron told him. "I know it hurts like hell without it, but a bit of pain is better than losing your wand hand." He's right, I might as well be dead without it.

Taking his past self's advice, the Champion closed his trunk instead of reaching in for his Numbing Balm. "The portal? Start talking."

"What happens to you? After she sets the rest of us free?" Ravenclaw Ron asked instead. "Where do you go?"

"I don't know, and I don't care," the Champion replied honestly. "Anywhere is better than here."

"Mate, I don't like this-"

"I don't care," the Champion repeated. "Enough of your questions, it's time for you to answer mine. What was that rift? What happened to me after I jumped through it?"

Ravenclaw Ron drew in a sharp breath, massaging his forehead. The Champion waited patiently, staring at his past self as the madman collected his thoughts. Well? Are you going to talk-?

"I think she exposed you to a gateway to Divinity, that's what that 'golden portal' was," Ravenclaw Ron eventually said, and images of a red scar splitting a blackened sky flashed in the Champion's mind. A gateway to Divinity? Isn't that what the Dark Lord used to 'become a threat to the entire Universe'? Strange, though, as Fate's gateway felt completely different.

"What's a gateway to Divinity?" the Champion asked, sitting back down on his bed and gently massaging his right forearm. "What's its purpose?"

"As the name suggests, it's a gateway, only it doesn't lead one to Divinity, not directly, I mean," Ravenclaw Ron explained, floating in front of the Champion. "Rather, it allows the user to travel through the Void-"

"The Void? Isn't that where the Entity came from?" the Champion asked, cocking an eyebrow.

"Yes and no," Ravenclaw Ron replied, and the Champion rolled his eyes. None of this makes any sense to me. "The Entity is a manifestation of the Void, of the nothingness that existed before it all. They are one in the same, but you can think of the Entity as the will and the Void as the body. Make sense so far?"

"Yes, I think… Keep going."

"The Void is a place unlike any other, beyond the understanding of even the Elders," Ravenclaw Ron continued. "Once, it was all there was, but now, it is the space which exists in-between the infinite, parallel Universes, separating them and making it impossible for any mortal being to travel from one Universe to another. It acts as a safeguard, if you will, keeping us safe from whatever's out there, and keeping whatever's out there safe from us. None but the Elders can traverse through it unharmed, none!"

"Why?"

"I don't know… But I imagine it's because the Void is a place that doesn't technically exist," Ravenclaw Ron replied, confusing the Champion. "Have you never wondered why the World-Eater terrifies us so? Why even standing near it feels wrong? Unnatural?Like it'll drive you mad if you think about it too much?" The Champion gave a slow nod. "It's because it doesn't actually exist. It's nothingness. It has no weight, no atomic mass, no heat, it doesn't age… It is simply not there, and your mind knows this."

"But I've spoken to it, it's hurt me countless times-"

"Exactly," Ravenclaw Ron cut in. "It is there, you know it's there, but your mind cannot understand what it's looking at, because it's looking at nothingness given form, which doesn't make any sense when you think about it, because how can nothingness be something, right?" Right… What the fuck? "The Void is no different in this regard, it is a place which contains absolutely nothing. No up, no down, no east, no west… No light and no darkness… Not even time exists within the Void, if you can believe that."

The Champion tried, but after several moments, he found that it was impossible to imagine such a place. "I can't picture a place like that… It's not possible. I mean, what is nothingness, exactly?"

"Trust me, you'll go mad thinking about such things, just like I did…" Ravenclaw Ron muttered, was that regret in his voice? "We humans are three-dimensional beings, which means we're limited, and there's so much out there that we'll never understand, or, even get to witness. But I digress… The gateway to Divinity allows one to travel through the Void, to travel outside of time and space. Outside of Creation itself! With a power like that, one could truly claim to be a God! Worlds which are thousands of lightyears away could be reached within a heartbeat. Realms which have succumbed to time and decay could be witnessed in all of their glory, for you can travel outside of time and re-enter these realms at a different point in their history. This is exactly why the Elders cannot be challenged by anyone but the World-Eater, for they exist everywhere and everywhen. And now… I think you share this ability with them, because of your own exposure to the World-Eater."

"Except, I can't open a gateway to Divinity," the Champion pointed out, and Ravenclaw Ron nodded once again. "Bloody hell, is this how she sent me to that other Universe? I travelled through the Void?"

"I think that was her test run, and seeing as you survived that ordeal, she's gone and put a gateway within your mind, so she can send you on more errands without ever needing to step foot near you," Ravenclaw Ron said, and the Champion let out a cold chuckle. "You should've thrown yourself off of that tower instead, mate-"

"So, I attain godlike power, but it's just another leash… How fitting, eh?" the Champion almost found this amusing, now, but in a sad sort of way. I've made my choice, no point in lamenting it now. Fate would've never stopped until I embraced my role as her Champion, and if this is what it takes to save my world from all the horrors of the future, then so be it. "If only the Elders, and those touched by the Void, can use these gateways, then how did the Dark Lord manage it? Care to explain that to me?"

"His Horcruxes," Ravenclaw Ron replied. "They must've kept him anchored to Creation as he travelled outside of it. Why do you think I tried to create one too? I had plans to bring it all down, and I knew I couldn't do that if mortality was holding me back… In hindsight, I suppose I can understand why Fate personally intervened in my Cycle. I became what I was meant to destroy…" He finally gets that? Yes, I suppose he does. He did help me against the Entity, even if he waited until he knew I could hurt it. For all his power and knowledge, he's just as scared as that little Ron I found before the slaughter started.

"Well, my goals still remain the same," the Champion stated, staring down at his injured forearm. "I've no interest in this 'Godhood' nonsense, I never have. My role has never been clearer to me. I will save Fred, and all the rest of them, from the Dark Lord. It's why I was born, and it's all I have now."

"What about after, though?" Ravenclaw Ron asked. "You're giving her exactly what she wants, a way to meddle with the Tapestry of Time and shape it in a way she's never been able to. She's always been a bystander, a spectator, but with you under her thumb? She'll be the one making the rules! That's just as bad as the Dark Lord getting his way!" I get it, you hate the Elders… I do too, but what else was I supposed to do? Everything we know is in danger, and we have to use the cards we've been dealt. If I don't do as she says, then she'll just find herself another Ron, and only Merlin knows how fucking stupid that cunt might turn out to be. He could even turn out like you, for example. I just can't take that risk, not when the people I love are in danger.

"I just wanted Fred to live," Ron whispered to himself, pressing his wounds and feeling a sharp pain run up his whole arm. "I just wanted my big brother to have a fucking future…" Now, I'm fighting for everyone's future, and it's going to kill me.

"Pardon? I didn't quite catch that."

"Nothing…" the Champion shook his head clear, before taking a deep breath. "You mentioned before that my mind was in ruins? Is it because of the gateway?"

"The power needed to create one of those is… astronomical!" Ravenclaw Ron replied, deciding not to press the Champion further. "So, yes, I think that's what caused the damage, along with all those souls running free within you."

"Can you heal the damage? Like the Entity could?" the Champion asked distantly.

"I'm going to try, but I'm not as skilled as the World-Eater, and my powers are limited," Ravenclaw Ron replied. "There will be… discomfort… Loads of it. You might have lost a few memories too…" Ravenclaw Ron then let out a tired breath. "Evil bitch… There are easier ways to destroy a man…" No, not evil. I sense no malevolence from her. I don't sense anything at all. She's just another cog in the machine, though a very important cog.

"Do what you can, and don't worry about my discomfort," the Champion ordered, genuinely not caring about his potentially lost memories. It's all piss, shit, and blood anyway. I'm better off without them. "We have to end this Cycle, understand? Now that I've seen just how much is at stake, I can't afford to slow down. Not even for a second. That's why she spared you, so do your job, and I'll do mine. Otherwise, she'll replace us both."

"This is not going to end well… For either of us," Ravenclaw Ron muttered under his breath. I heard that. "So, are you still planning to help these Sages, then? Because this is a distraction-"

"It's not a distraction, the Dark Lord did something to the Sacred Tree, and I need to find out what," the Champion cut in, shooting a quick look at the door. "And the Sage who spoke to me said something that got to me. I didn't mention it near Professor Snape and the Headmaster, mostly because it scared me… Now that I think about it, I was being foolish. I can't let fear rule me. I have to tell them before we make a mistake due to not being on the same page, but before I do that, I want your opinion on it."

"What did the Sage say?" Ravenclaw Ron asked, intrigued.

"He lives within thee," the Champion repeated, and his counterpart just stared at him. "And that 'his power shall undo his Curse'."

"I take it that 'he' is the Dark Lord?" Ravenclaw Ron asked slowly, and the Champion gave a nod. "Of course… Things can't be simple for a change, can they? Not with you around…" Evidently not.

"I think they were referring to our shared ability to speak with snakes, but to this day, I still don't know why I can do it," the Champion continued. "None of my siblings can, not that I'm aware of, so how exactly did I gain this power?"

"He lives within thee…" Ravenclaw Ron mused, floating about. "You know, for a while now, I've pondered over you being a Parselmouth myself. I wasn't, and neither were any of the other Rons. Just you."

"Harry can do it too, he helped open the Chamber of Secrets," the Champion lay on his back, staring at the ceiling.

"Oh, yes, I know all about Potter and his power…" Ravenclaw Ron sneered. "Fucking useless cretin."

"Don't blame him just because you lost your Ginny," the Champion said coldly. "He wasn't her brother, and he was definitely not her keeper. That was your job."

"Whatever…" Ravenclaw Ron said bitterly, still sneering.

"Still, how can Harry and I both share this power with the Dark Lord-?" the Champion suddenly stopped, sitting up with widened eyes. Hold on… Hold on a fucking moment!

"What? What is it?"

"The two of us are 'connected' to the Dark Lord, that's what the Hat told me once…" the Champion mumbled, the dread growing within him quickly overpowering the Calming Draught. "The two of us…"

"What the fuck are you on about?" Ravenclaw Ron asked. "What about the two of you?"

"Destroy the Ring and the Cup, only then shall I reveal the final two Horcruxes to you," he remembered Fate's words, his blood turning to ice. No… No, no, no… That… That can't happen, can it?!

Panicking, the Champion shot up onto his feet, a look of utter horror marring his features. His past self went wide-eyed immediately, he'd rarely seen such fear on the Champion's face before.

"Oi, what's wrong? Tell me," Ravenclaw Ron floated over, his brow creased. If I'm right, then everything is fucked! Fucked beyond reasoning!

The Champion drew in a shaky breath, using his Occlumency training and the Calming Draught's effects to somewhat regain control of himself. "Is it possible for a person to become a Horcrux for another…?"

Ravenclaw Ron moved back a bit, his eyes losing focus as he vanished into his thoughts. Well?! Is it possible?!

"In Salazar's notes…" the Champion started, his fists clenching until his knuckles were bone-white. "…Herpo the Foul turned his Basilisk into a Horcrux. It's what gave him the ability to speak with snakes in the first place! Can that be done with people, too?"

"A human Horcrux…" his counterpart looked unsurprisingly fascinated. "It could work, theoretically. If Herpo managed it with a Basilisk, then I don't see why it can't be replicated with a human being. It's just not very smart, however, given that people age and die."

The Champion drew in another shaky breath, pacing manically. "No, I've got to be wrong about this.… I mean, how? When?! I've only encountered the Dark Lord twice-!"

"Don't shout, we need to keep this between us," Ravenclaw Ron said in a hurry.

"Between us?" the Champion stopped pacing, blinking at his past self. "Are you fucking insane? If I'm right about this, then the Headmaster needs to know. He needs to know right the fuck now-!"

"And what's he going to do when he finds out that you're partly the reason why the Dark Lord is unkillable?" Ravenclaw Ron asked in response, shooting a dark look back at the door. "No, we can't trust that old bastard with this! He'll turn on us, as will his pet-!"

"You keep talking about them like this, and it'll be me you have to worry about, not the Headmaster," the Champion warned, frowning deeply. "Don't you understand? If I'm right, then the Chosen One is already compromised!"

"How can Potter possibly be a Horcrux, though?" Ravenclaw Ron asked. "Look, we don't actually know if this theory of yours is right, we're just-"

"Fate told me that there were two more Horcruxes still out there, besides the Cup and the Ring," the Champion felt a dull ache in the back of his head, the potion was trying so very hard to subdue his rampant emotions. "Two! Harry and me-!"

"Stop fucking yelling," Ravenclaw Ron hissed, both of them freezing when there was a knock at the door. Oh, fuck…

"Ron?" came Professor Snape's voice, before the door slid open.

The Potion Master stepped into the room, his dark eye quickly finding the Champion standing by his bed, his skin pale as snow and a cold sweat upon his brow.

"Professor Snape…" the Champion managed, his throat tightening. Calm down, old boy. Calm the fuck down.

"Why aren't you asleep?" Snape asked, his eye narrowing on the Champion. Stop just staring at him, you simple fuck. What's the next move?

The Champion drew in another deep breath, wiping his brow and shifting about uncomfortably. "I… was having a nightmare… Sorry."

Ravenclaw Ron gave an approving nod, while Snape looked around the room.

"I heard you talking to someone," Snape pointed out, looking back to the Champion. "You mentioned something about Potter?"

"Talking in my sleep, that's all," the Champion lied, picturing Stoatshead Hill in order to regain his composure. "I'll Silence my room-"

"Boy, if you don't want to tell me the truth, then that's all right," Snape said icily. "But don't insult my intelligence." Right… Sorry. "Albus has left for Magical Britain with Fawkes, he's going to tell your family that you're safe and being looked after. It should put them all at ease." Oh, good… Good. "Do you need a Sleeping Draught? I need some rest myself, so I thought I'd offer."

"No, thank you, Sir…" the Champion refused, he wasn't going to sleep anytime soon.

"Are you sure?"

The Champion nodded, finally realizing that he was still shirtless. "Um… Can I have some privacy, please?"

Snape just stood there, his expression unreadable, but eventually, he gave a short nod before turning to leave. "We're on your side, Ron. Just don't forget that." Fuck me, if I'm right, then we'll be planning my destruction soon enough. That'll be a conversation to remember, I'm sure.

The Champion waited until Snape was gone, and once he was alone with his counterpart, they both exchanged haunted looks. I need concrete answers, first. I need to meet with these Sages, no matter what. They know things they shouldn't, and they're clearly very powerful. They could shed more light on this-…

"Looks like meeting these Sages just became our main priority," Ravenclaw Ron finally broke the silence. "They have to know more than what they told you."

"But how? How can they know something like this?" the Champion asked, praying to Merlin that he was wrong. "You need to go back in my head, and ask that shape-shifting cunt what it knows about this. There's no fucking way that it doesn't have a hand in this!"

"Even if it does, what makes you think it'll talk to me-?"

"I don't care, keep torturing it until it does,' the Champion hissed, drawing in another deep breath. "Fuck… This can't happen to me… This can't happen to Harry!"

"All right, relax…" Ravenclaw Ron advised, slowly beginning to vanish. "I'll make the fucker sing, and we will figure this out. I promise. Just don't do anything stupid while I'm gone-"

"I won't, just fucking go already," the Champion frowned, sitting back down and resting his elbows on his knees, his head clutched in his hands once again. I need to read through Salazar's notes again, but they're back at the Burrow. If I'm really a Horcrux, then… Then, I need to be put down, and not just me, but Harry too… He has to die too, or, we lose everything. Fuck… Please, let me be wrong about this.

Finally, alone at last, Ron fell back onto his bed, staring at the ceiling once again. When could he have…? I don't understand… And Harry too? No, I've got to be wrong about this. Instead of worrying about it, I need to find answers.

He turned on his side and curled up into a ball, closing his eyes and thinking of Stoatshead Hill. The Calming Draught continued doing its work, and after some steady breaths, Ron was able to calm himself down enough to somewhat think clearly. I doubt Fate will help me; she didn't tell me what the last two Horcruxes were for a reason. The Entity has to know if I'm onto something, but if it doesn't talk, then these Sages might be my best bet. I have to reach Octavia, it's more important than ever now, but roaming the grounds will be difficult given Harkin's mistrust of me. I'll need to be on my best behaviour, and wait for my opportunity.

---

Harry Potter's POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (12 Grimmauld Place– Nearly Midday)

As he waited for Neville by the fireplace, Harry found that he was unable to stop staring up at the ceiling. Narcissa Malfoy is up there, in Sirius' brother's room… The Order is keeping a captive in our house. And Kurt too, he just turned up out of nowhere. No one will tell me anything about where he came from, which is really strange. Harry had tried to speak with Kurt in order to get some answers about his past, but the young Werewolf was an elusive fellow, always busy with Kreacher's chores. He's gone to the market today; I'll have to find him when he comes back. Why did he make such a fuss about having to go outside? He sounded terrified… Is he guilty of something? Are the Aurors looking for him-?

The fireplace suddenly roared to life, surprising Harry.

"Oh, hello, Harry," Neville stepped into Grimmauld Place, his nervous smile all too familiar. Rough morning with 'Gran'? Did he tell her about Parkinson? "Odd of you to wait by the fireplace like this."

"Not odd at all," Harry smiled, he'd missed his best friend. "Sirius and I are planning to go to the Burrow, and you're coming with us."

"Oh, if you have other plans, then-"

"No, I still want to spend the day together, but did you read the Daily Prophet?" Harry asked, and Neville gave a quick nod.

"Tracey's awake, thank Merlin," Neville smiled lightly, both of them moving to the sofas. "It's great news, but… Did you read about Ron? It was on the front page."

"Yeah, he had another seizure…" Harry replied weakly. "Sirius read about it this morning during breakfast, and it bothered him a great deal. He wants to talk to Mrs. Weasley, and I figured we'd join him. Is that all right?"

"Ginny and the twins must be so worried…" Neville agreed, nodding. "Poor Ron, though… He's been disqualified to boot. The Chess League is more serious than I thought." Serious? Or, just petty?

"Sirius says they're still sore about Ron exposing them last year," Harry said. "They were working with the Headmistress of Beauxbatons to give France a victory, she'd bribed them, you see, but Ron put an end to all that. This is their way of getting back at him."

"Prats… I guess he'll have to come home, now…" Neville said, sounding even more sorry. "But seeing Tracey will make him feel better, if that's any consolation. I bet Pansy's dying to see her-"

"Harry? Is that Neville I hear?" came Sirius' voice, before the dark-haired wizard sauntered into the room. "Neville! Good to see you, mate! How've you been?"

"I'm doing well, Sirius," Neville replied, glad to see him again. "Harry and I were just talking about Ron; we're worried about him."

"Yeah, me too," Sirius adorned a more sombre expression. "But he's a strong lad, and I'm certain he'll pull through. Has Harry told you that we're heading to see his family? I just need to see them all, make sure they're okay-"

"Oh, I understand, Sirius, and I'd love to join you," Neville said, looking to Harry. "Ready?"

"Ready," Harry rose up, the pair of Gryffindors following Sirius to the fireplace. "Are any Order members coming over today?"

"What? Oh, yes, Fletcher and Sturgis might be around," Sirius replied absentmindedly, preparing the floo. "C'mon, time to go. Neville, you first."

Neville went through the fire without hesitation, whereas Harry remained in his spot. And do they know about Malfoy's mother? And about where Kurt came from?

"Harry?" Sirius asked, waiting on the Boy-Who-Lived.

"What's the Order going to do with Malfoy's mother?" Harry asked plainly, too curious for his own good.

"Where's this coming from?" Sirius blinked.

"Nowhere," Harry shrugged, though he was still a bit shaken from yesterday's events. "I'm curious about what's going on with Malfoy too. Is he a prisoner of the Order, like his mother-?"

"No, he's…" Sirius trailed off. "Yes, I suppose he is a prisoner, but only because he chooses to act like one. His parents, they're nothing like yours, Harry. The Malfoys are a dangerous lot, and it's a real shame that we couldn't nab Lucius as well. Draco would have been much easier to manage then, that's for sure…" Sirius then let out a long breath. "Don't you worry about Draco, though. He's being taken care of, and eventually, he'll come to see that." Will he? I'm not so sure, he looked and sounded downright hateful yesterday.

"You still didn't answer my question," Harry pointed out. "What's the Order planning to do with Narcissa Malfoy? Are we just going to keep her here until Voldemort's been defeated?"

Sirius shuddered as soon as he heard the name, making Harry frown a little.

"Merlin, I bloody hope not," Sirius glared up at the ceiling. "I don't know what the old man plans to do with her, Harry, so I can't really say… All I know is that her husband is going to come looking for her one day, and we're going to be waiting."

"So, she's bait-?"

"Now's not really the time for these questions, Harry," Sirius said, sounding impatient. "Go on, hop through the fire. I need to talk to Molly." Fine… I want to see Ginny and the twins, anyway. I'll find out more about Narcissa from Kurt, if I can catch him, and the other Order members.

Following in Neville's footsteps, Harry found himself in the cosy living room of the Burrow. The smell of freshly cooked breakfast still lingered in the air, though the dark weather outside cast a heavy shadow in the room. Ginny sat alone by the window, staring out with a dull expression, while Neville was already seated with the twins on the couch, talking in hushed whispers.

"Why's it so dark in here?" Sirius asked as soon as he came through. "Turn on the lights, one of you."

"We're just lazing about, Sirius," Fred shrugged, shooting a subtle glance in Ginny's direction. "All right there, Harry?" Huh?

Ginny turned her head away from the window at that, looking Harry over with empty eyes. She looked entirely hopeless, as if she had read Ron's obituary instead of news of another seizure, and Harry quickly found himself feeling out of place under her apathetic gaze.

"Yeah, I'm all right," Harry replied eventually, still staring at Ginny. "How're you three? Ginny?"

Ginny said nothing in response, instead shaking her head miserably before looking back outside. Yeah, I figured… She and Ron have always been close from what I've been told.

"We read about Ron, same as you," George said, also staring at Ginny. "Mum's out front, Sirius, if you were wondering."

"Percy and Charlie are with her," Fred added. "They're moving the chickens into dad's shed because the weather's turned sour. Mum keeps saying there's going to be a storm, but I doubt it. Just a bit of rain, nothing more."

"Why are you two strapping lads sitting in here, while your mother's working outside?" Sirius asked, looking between Fred and George.

"She won't let us use our wands on chores," George rolled his eyes. "Even got a bloody permit and all, but no, she won't have it."

"Percy's really happy about that, isn't he?" Fred frowned to himself. That definitely sounds like him.

"No wands, really?" Sirius asked, curious. "Why?"

"Discipline," Fred and George replied in unison, both sounding equally bored. But she uses Magic for everything, even for knitting… No, I shouldn't get involved. It's not my business.

"Just use them without her noticing, then," Sirius suggested casually, before turning towards the exit. "Out front, you said? Right, I'll see you lot in a bit. Why don't we go out for ice-cream after? My treat!"

"…Sure, Sirius…" George replied, though none of the Weasley siblings looked particularly excited by the idea.

Waving Sirius off, Harry began making his way over to the twins and Neville, sparing Ginny another glance along the way. What's she looking at, I wonder.

"I'm sorry about Ron," Harry said, taking a seat next to Fred. "How's everyone else doing? Your mum and dad? They must be worried sick."

"Ron's hand is stuck on mortal peril," Fred whispered, gesturing towards the Weasley Clock. "It's bad, mate… Even Charlie's fucking scared, and nothing ever scares him…" Mortal peril?

Harry looked to the Enchanted clock, feeling his gut twist when saw Ron's hand. Fred's right… It's no wonder Ginny looks so upset. Harry knew that he wasn't close with Ron, he'd ruined any chance of them becoming actual friends himself, but as he stared at Ron's hand, a terrible sense of loss began to fill his heart. His eyes quickly moved away from the clock, as if trying to escape from the terrible feeling, noticing that both Arthur and Bill were at work along the way. The Weasleys don't deserve this… Why does God only punish good people?

"Mum saw it first, before breakfast…" George shook his head. "She's been in a right state ever since…"

"I'm really sorry," Harry apologized again, despite knowing it wouldn't change anything. "Is there anything you need? Anything Neville and I can do?"

The twins exchanged looks, then gave Harry a nod. Just say it, and I'll do it right now!

"Ginny…" Fred whispered, shooting her another glance. "She was asking a lot of questions about Ronnie last night… Awkward questions…"

"What sort of awkward questions?" Neville whispered, both third-years looking deeply concerned.

"If he would try to…" George started, but quickly stopped and leaned closer in. "You know… Try to off himself again…" Oh, my god… She really asked them that? "Whether he'd live to turn seventeen, or, if he ever planned to come back to Hogwarts… Dad told her to stop because her questions were really upsetting mum, and Ginny got even more anxious… I reckon she spent the whole night crying in Bill's room."

Harry and Neville exchanged sorry looks, while the twins shot their distracted sister another glance. Should we tell Hermione about this? She and Ginny are close, so maybe hearing from Hermione will make her feel better?

"Then, this morning…" Fred pointed to the clock; his voice barely audible. "I'm sure you two can figure out how that went…" I don't think I want to… This is horrible. Hasn't she been through enough?

"Can you talk to her, Neville? For us?" George asked. "You two get along really well, we've seen it. Maybe you can… I don't know… Just say something nice to her?"

"O-of course," Neville nodded fervently, before looking to Harry. "Want to come with?"

"Sure," Harry agreed, though he had no idea on what to say to her.

Awkwardly, both boys rose out of their seats and made their way over to Ginny, who was still staring outside. Neville pulled a chair next to her, while Harry leaned against the wall next to the window. She shifted a little in her seat, but she remained silent despite their sudden presence.

"Hey, Ginny," Neville greeted, managing a half-smile somehow.

"…What did they tell you…?" Ginny asked, her fingers pressing into her left forearm. She does that a lot… Is it just a nervous tick?

"Just that you're worried about your brother, nothing more," Neville replied softly, it always surprised Harry to see just how gentle his best friend could be. "Do you want to talk about it?" I don't know how he does it, but I'm really glad he's here.

"…No…" Ginny sniffled, her face pinching before she let out a sob. "…I'm just really scared for him, Nev… And no one tells me anything…"

Harry tensed up immediately, he knew the feeling of being left out all too well, while Neville put his arm around Ginny's shoulders. She shifted closer to the growing Gryffindor, her slender frame shrinking into his side. Harry felt the urge to say something, anything, but no words came to mind. The truth was that there was nothing he could say which would make this better, make this hurt less, and comforting crying girls was so out of his experience that he might as well be a mute.

"Everything is going to be okay, Ginny," Neville promised, giving her shoulder's a squeeze.

"How's he going to come home?" Ginny wiped at her eyes with her sweater's sleeve, leaving red marks on her freckled cheeks. "He… He had a seizure because of the Portkey… How's he going to come home without one, Nev?"

"He could take a plane," Harry blurted out, desperate to say anything to help.

"A plane?" Ginny blinked at him, while Neville waited for him to explain.

"You know… An airplane… Muggles use it to fly from country to country, and they're really safe," Harry shifted about a little, realizing how stupid his suggestion was. Does Ron even know what an airplane is? Should've just stayed quiet…

"See?" Neville looked back to Ginny, smiling more fully. "Ron's really clever, Ginny, and I mean really clever. He'll figure it out and be back before you know it."

"You're just saying that… to make me feel better…" Ginny sniffled again, and Neville pulled out a handkerchief from his robes and handed it to her. "…Thanks…" She wiped her eyes clear again, before blowing her nose into the handkerchief. "Sorry, Nev, I don't want to dirty my-"

"There's nothing to apologize for," Neville assured her. "Do you want a glass of water? Your throat sounds dry."

Ginny gave a meek nod, and Harry immediately moved off of the wall. He wasn't any good with his words, but he could definitely get her a glass of water. Be useful, Harry. You came to show your support, didn't you?

"I'll get it," Harry volunteered, and Neville shot him a grateful smile. "I'll be right back, Ginny."

He hurried into the kitchen, and after grabbing a clean glass from the dishrack, Harry used the tap to fill it to the brim. Without delay, he made to return to his friends, but just as he turned, a blinding, orange light filled the room, startling Harry and making him drop the glass. What the hell?! My wand! Reaching into his fine, silk robes, Harry aimed his wand at the whirlpool of dancing flames just beyond the dining table, which suddenly sizzled out to reveal Professor Dumbledore and Fawkes. Woah! That was brilliant! But what are they doing here?!

"Harry, my boy?" Dumbledore's twinkling eyes found him instantly, while Fawkes spread his wings and let out a shriek. "What a pleasant surprise!"

"Professor Dumbledore…?" Harry muttered, before looking down at the broken glass. Tsk… I'll have to fix that. What was that spell, again? Reparo, right?

"You should be more careful, Harry," Dumbledore waved his hand, and the glass began to reform from the broken pieces before floating back onto the dishrack. Or, you could just do that… "I take it that you're here to comfort the Weasleys?"

"I… Yes, Professor, I am," Harry stood up straighter, while Dumbledore's smile widened. "Are you here to do the same?"

"I am, indeed-"

The front door suddenly burst open, and Sirius charged in with his wand out, followed promptly by Charlie and Percy. Harry's friends also came rushing into the kitchen, stopping dead in their tracks when they saw Professor Dumbledore.

"Headmaster? Fucking hell…" Sirius sighed out, lowering his wand alongside Charlie and Percy. "You scared the life out of us…"

"Is it really him?" Molly entered last, she looked as though she hadn't slept in days.

"Are you here because of Ronnie?" Ginny asked, sounding rather hopeful.

"Yes, I was just with him," Dumbledore turned to face Ginny, completely silencing the room. You were?! Is he okay?! Why didn't you bring him with you? Is he too sick to travel? "Have no fear, Ginevra, your brother is already recovering. In my experience, there's not much that can keep young Ronald down for long. He is safe and sound, you have my word."

"Oh, thank Merlin," Molly breathed a sigh of relief, while her children exchanged reassured looks. This is brilliant news and all, but his hand… It's still stuck on mortal peril, isn't it?

Harry said nothing, instead studying the old wizard. What if he's just saying that Ron's all right to make them feel better? No, he wouldn't lie like that… He's not one to offer false hope to others.

"I've never been more glad to see you, old man," Sirius laughed, tucking his wand away. "Thank you for checking up on him, it means the world to us-"

"Why didn't you bring him back with you?" Ginny interrupted, not entirely convinced. "And his hand…" she trailed off. Exactly!

"His hand?" Dumbledore asked, looking back to her.

"We have this clock that tells us if one of us is in any danger, and Ron's hand is stuck on mortal peril," Percy clarified, also looking suspicious now.

"Why isn't he here with you?" Charlie then asked, exchanging a look with the twins.

"He is not fit to travel, not yet," Dumbledore started, his calm smile unfazed by the questions. "And as for his hand… I am certain I do not need to emphasize the severity of Ronald's conditions to any of you." Wait… Is he saying that that's never going to change? Not until Ron's… Oh… "I am sorry, and I promise you all, I will bring him home to you as soon as he's ready."

The silence was palpable as soon as Dumbledore finished, with Harry and Neville struggling to meet the gazes of any of the Weasleys. Even Sirius had gone deathly quiet, silently exchanging a pained look with Molly. They all knew that Ron was going to die, but being reminded of it only served to make the wound bleed rather than help mend it.

"…Would you like some tea, Headmaster…?" Molly eventually broke the silence, her voice quivering.

"Can't you take us to him?" Fred suddenly asked.

"If he's too unwell to travel, then we should go to him," George added. I get the feeling that he doesn't want anyone to see him sick, to see him as 'weak'. Why else did he spend so much time and effort hiding his conditions?

"I cannot do that," Dumbledore refused the twins, surprising them. "I am sorry, but Ronald wishes to recover alone-"

"Why?!" Charlie demanded, looking angry, if only for a heartbeat. "…Sorry, Sir, I… I meant no disrespect to you, but I don't understand what you mean… He needs to be with his family-"

"Would you want your brothers and sister to see you bed-ridden?" Dumbledore asked simply, giving Charlie an understanding smile before turning his attention back to Molly. "Thank you for the offer, Molly, but it's best that I return to Ronald's side." Fawkes shrieked at that, flapping his wings impatiently. "He is out of immediate danger, but Severus and I-"

"Snape's with you?" Sirius asked, while Harry and Neville exchanged worried looks. Snape's involved? That can't be a good thing.

"Yes, his knowledge in Potioneering has been invaluable to Ronald-" Dumbledore started, but stopped when Fred suddenly made a squeaking noise.

"The Nutrition Potions, George! Where'd you put them?!" Fred quickly moved towards the stairs, alarming everyone. "Hold on, Headmaster, we need to give you something for Ron!"

"We'll be right back," George rushed to his twins' side, before they both bolted upstairs. What the-?

"There's no running in this house, you two!" Percy tried, but they were already gone. "Idiots…" Why am I not surprised to see Percy still acting like a prat, even now?

"I'm sorry about them, Headmaster," Molly sighed out, moving further into the kitchen and stopping by her kettle. "They shouldn't have interrupted you like that… Please, go on."

"There is no need for an apology," Dumbledore assured her. "I was simply saying that Severus is-"

The sound of rushing footsteps stopped him again, and everyone looked to see the twins return with a small, wooden chest. Percy went to tell them off, but they had both run straight to Professor Dumbledore.

"Here, Professor," Fred all but shoved the chest into Dumbledore's hands, making the old wizard give the twins a quizzical look. "Ronnie knows about them, so please, could you just deliver them for us? They're much stronger than your average Nutrition Potion."

"We improved on the original formula," George added, while Percy scoffed in disbelief, only to get dark glares from Ginny and Charlie.

"You improved on the formula?" Dumbledore blinked; it was jarring to see the old wizard lost for words. If anyone could do it, it's the twins.

Dumbledore then opened the chest, pulling out a small vial filled with a greyish, snotty liquid. He studied it carefully, even handing a curious Sirius the rest so he too could have a look. While they do that… Harry grabbed the same glass as before, filling it with water and bringing it over to Ginny.

"Here you go, Ginny," Harry offered her the glass, feeling oddly nervous when she blushed and took the glass, their fingers grazing together.

"Thanks, Harry…" Ginny whispered, taking a sip and giving him a weak smile.

"Oh, it's nothing really…" Harry smiled back awkwardly, glad to see that Dumbledore's visit had managed to ease her worries, if only a little.

"You two just… improved… the Nutrition Potion?" Sirius suddenly asked, and they all looked back to the twins. "A potion that's been around for ages?"

Even Molly and Percy were now holding a vial each, staring at the twins in utter shock. It couldn't have been easy to make that. Potions is a terribly dull and difficult subject, in my opinion.

"Ronnikins needed our help," George replied, while Fred simply shrugged. "So, yes, we improved the formula."

Sirius and Dumbledore exchanged awed looks, before Dumbledore let out a hearty chuckle. "You truly have the most brilliant children, Molly! Truly outstanding in their own ways, all seven of them!"

"Oh, thank you, Headmaster," Molly blinked, surprised and deeply touched by the affection dancing behind Dumbledore's twinkling eyes. "They're perhaps a little too brilliant, sometimes."

Harry felt Ginny tense up once again, and when he looked to her, he found her staring down at her feet, no doubt hiding her gaze from her brothers and mother. Neville had noticed too, judging by the sorry look on his face, but neither of them said anything.

"I'll have to show these to Severus, first, of course," Dumbledore smiled at the twins, while the others put the vials back and handed the chest back to the old wizard.

"Oh, go ahead, it's his cupboard we raided-" Fred started, but George elbowed his twin in the gut, making Fred wheeze. "Ow…"

"I'm going to pretend I didn't hear that," Dumbledore laughed, while Percy's admiration was quickly replaced with disapproval. "Harry, a word before I leave?" He wants to talk to me? About what?

"Of course, Professor," Harry quickly agreed, while Sirius cocked an eyebrow, but said nothing.

Dumbledore wasted no time in heading outside, with Harry following closely at his heels. They walked in silence all the way to Arthur's shed, which only served to make Harry wonder what this was about.

"How are you, Harry?" Dumbledore suddenly asked, coming to a stop and smiling down at him. "I've heard that you enjoyed quite the feast yesterday."

"I've never had anything like it, outside of Hogwarts, that is," Harry couldn't help but smile, his life away from the Dursleys still felt new to him. "Kreacher… He could even rival Mrs. Weasley when it comes to cooking, but don't tell her I said that."

And there it was again, that odd feeling of living a life that wasn't your own. No, I belong with Sirius and Remus. They're my family, not the Dursleys.

"I won't," Dumbledore's smile widened.

"Um… So, what did you want to talk about, Professor?" Harry asked, silently praying that it was Order business.

"Draco Malfoy," Dumbledore replied, making Harry blink. "I know he came to Grimmauld Place yesterday, Harry, just as I know you're curious about his peculiar situation." Oh, you do? "Tell me, what would you do with him in my shoes?" What…? As in, if I were in charge of the Order?

"Um… I don't know, I suppose-"

"Humour me, please." Okay, what would I do with him? He's not exactly dangerous, but he's still a foul person, and he hates anyone who's not like him… But that's not who I saw yesterday…

"Is this about Narcissa Malfoy?" Harry asked slowly.

"She is a variable that cannot be ignored, so yes, let's say this is about her as well," Dumbledore gave a nod, and Harry got the strange feeling that he needed to be very careful with his words now. "What would you do with them?"

"Well, I don't know much about her, though I've been told that she's just as vile as her husband," Harry started. "But she's still his mother, and yesterday…" Harry paused, not liking the fact that he had felt sorry for Malfoy. "He was terrified for her, Professor… And he just wanted to see her for five minutes. Only five minutes. I'd let them meet, but under your supervision, of course."

"And after?"

"Well, we can't let her go now, but if Malfoy knows that we're taking proper care of his mother, then he's more likely to listen to us, right?" Harry replied, feeling unsure and under the spotlight. "And… We have to be better than Voldemort, don't we? We can't just destroy everyone we don't agree with, that's no different from murder." If we start behaving like the Death-Eaters, then what's even the point of fighting them?

"I think so too, Harry," Dumbledore beamed. "Although Lucius and Narcissa raised their son to hate, the love he feels for them is no different than the love you feel for your parents. Remember that, Harry, it's vital that you understand that we can all feel love. We are all capable of great and terrible things, each and every one of us, and those like Draco are no different than you and me. It's never too late to change our ways, never."

Harry nodded, listening intently. "You mean the Slytherins, don't you?"

"Yes, I do," Dumbledore's eyes twinkled. "There will come a time when many will look to you for leadership, Harry, including those who come from Slytherin House, and when that times comes, do this old man a favour and remember his words, won't you?"

Harry blinked, why did it sound like Dumbledore was in trouble?

"Professor, you're not in any trouble, are you?" Harry asked, his gut twisting at the thought of losing Dumbledore.

Dumbledore simply kept smiling in response, giving Harry's shoulder a paternal squeeze. Harry was visibly surprised by this, as Dumbledore was generally a lot more subtle in showing his fondness for the Boy-Who-Lived. Something is definitely wrong; I can feel it in my bones.

"You should go back inside, my boy," Dumbledore broke the silence, while Fawkes shrieked at the dark clouds looming over them. "It appears that a mighty storm is on its way."

Before Harry could further press the old wizard, Dumbledore was suddenly engulfed in bright orange flames, vanishing amidst them and leaving Harry confused and worried. Does… Does he really expect me to lead the Order one day? I know Hestia thinks I should, as do some other Order members, but I'm not a leader… Not like Dumbledore. I'm just Harry…

---

Tracey Davis' POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (St. Mungo's – Midday)

"Okay, Tracey, we're going to help you out of the bed now," the Medi-Witch, Aurora, said gently, while Susana lingered in the background with a worried expression.

Tracey avoided her mother's gaze as the two Nurses with them helped her sit up, Susana had invoked her right as a parent to be within the room, despite Tracey wanting to be alone. She hated seeing her parents worried, and now, that's all she would ever see. I'm guessing I'll be home-schooled from now on…

The mere thought made her chest feel tight, she'd lost everything in a heartbeat…

"Can you stay upright without support?" Aurora asked, and Tracey gave a weak nod.

The Nurses exchanged looks, but said nothing as Aurora quickly jotted something down in Tracey's file. The now-mute witch ignored her Medi-Witch's actions, she was already sick of their tests. They keep saying that I'll feel weak and lethargic for a few days, but I don't feel that way at all. I feel fine, or, at least, as fine as I'll ever be.

"Can you two give her some space?" Aurora asked the Nurses. "I think we should let her try and stand on her own feet-"

"You can't be serious," Susana finally broke her silence, moving to Tracey's bedside. "She's too weak, Medi-Witch Dagny. You said so yourself-"

"I… can do it…" Tracey rasped, only to be shushed by her frantic mother.

"You've nothing to prove, Tracey," Susana urged, which only made her feel a hundred times worse. "Please, don't rush this, love. Take your time-"

"Mrs. Davis, if you are going to get in our way, I will have these Nurses escort you out," Aurora warned Susana, still observing Tracey. "Now, step aside, please."

"Mum… It's okay…" Tracey tried, but her voice had barely come out this time.

"Love, you have to save your voice, please," Susana sighed out, before taking a step away from the bed. "At least, let the Nurses help her."

"Tracey, try and move off of the bed by yourself," Aurora ordered, ignoring the worried mother. "Just remember to take it slowly, though. Your mother is not wrong, there's no rush."

Tracey shifted about on her bed, moving the blankets off of her legs before lowering her feet onto the cold floor. Okay, maybe they weren't completely wrong… My arms and legs feel so stiff, they even hurt a little. However, determined not to further worry her mother, Tracey groaned as she began lifting herself off the bed, until eventually, she was standing on a pair of shaky legs. I… I did it!

"Unbelievable…" one of the Nurses muttered, surprising Tracey, who looked around her only to realize that even her mother looked astounded. See?

"This is most peculiar…" Aurora stared down at Tracey's bony legs, the girl was nothing more than skin and bones after her coma. "Try and move towards me, Tracey, if you can. You're doing an excellent job so far."

Tracey gave another weak nod, and even managed a couple of steps before her left leg gave out. Susana moved as fast as lightning, catching her daughter before even the Nurses could intervene.

"It's okay, my love, I have you," Susana carried her back to her bed, not letting the Nurses help her. "I can't believe you managed to stand on your own! This is brilliant news, isn't it, Medi-Witch Dagny?!"

"Yes… Quite so…" Aurora muttered, writing down more notes. Why is she so shocked? Did the Curse really weaken me so much?

Tracey stared down at her bony forearms and legs, feeling incredibly insecure all of a sudden. She'd always been slender, many would have even called her skinny, but now, she was nothing short of emaciated. And it wasn't long until her thoughts had travelled back to Theo, she didn't want him seeing her like this. Especially not him… Not that he'd want to date me now… What's the point of a girlfriend who can't even talk?

"Tracey?" Susana whispered, noticing that her daughter had become teary-eyed again. "Love, what's wrong? You're doing so well."

Tracey said nothing in response, instead she folded her bony arms into her stomach and let out a strangled sob. Her mother quickly realized what was wrong, and she hurriedly kneeled in front of her daughter, taking both of Tracey's hands in her own. The Nurses and Aurora remained silent; however, Tracey could sense the pity with which they all saw her. It made her feel even worse than before, to be viewed as defective by them, a feeling she had gotten far too familiar with as a child. Half-Blood… I'd give anything to go back to being just that…

"This is only temporary, Trace," Susana whispered lovingly, kissing her daughter's hands. "Things will improve, I promise, but you must be patient." I don't want to be patient! I want this to never have happened to me! "Medi-Witch Dagny, tell her about the diet plan we discussed this morning." Diet plan?

"Of course," Aurora stepped forward. "Starting from tomorrow, Tracey, we're going to increase your food intake. You'll have four large meals a day, with snacks like fruits, nuts, and yogurt in-between." Excuse me? Is she serious about this…? I'll end up as a fatty instead! "I know this seems like a lot, especially for a girl your age, but as of right now, you are extremely malnourished. The Curse is still there, and it will continue to try and weaken you, but I believe that with exercise and a balanced diet, we can counteract the Curse's power. Keep it in check, so to speak."

"What… about using Magic…?" Tracey managed, the thought of stuffing her face all the time didn't appeal to her whatsoever.

"We've done what we can from that end, I'm sorry to say," Aurora replied, not one to hide the truth from her patients. "If you are scared of becoming overweight, don't be. We will monitor your weight very carefully, and adjust your diet plan accordingly. The most important thing right now is getting you back to where you were before the accident." Accident? It wasn't an accident! Some psycho tried to murder Ron-!

A sudden knock at the door stopped Aurora short, and they all turned to see a brunette step into the room, her white Auror Uniform immediately catching Tracey's eye.

"Auror Roberto, is there a reason behind this interruption?" Aurora asked, her expression stern.

"Apologies, but her friends are outside, and they are demanding to see her," the Auror replied, looking to Tracey, who tensed up immediately. "They've threatened to make a scene, so I thought I'd let you know. How should I proceed?"

Her mother had told her that Pansy and Blaise had slept in the waiting room upstairs last night, but despite this, Tracey was still afraid of seeing them. She couldn't stand to look at her own reflection, so how exactly would they react?

Sensing her daughter's hesitation, Susana planted herself beside Tracey, taking the bony girl in her arms. "Tracey, you've nothing to fear, okay? They visited you so often, and Daphne… Well, she was here every chance she got. They know everything already, love, and it hasn't changed how they feel about you. They love you so much that even I'm a little jealous, if you can believe that." Really?

"No, you're not…" Tracey croaked, though she was greatly comforted by her mother's words.

"I am, promise," Susana smiled sadly, kissing Tracey's temple and holding her more tightly. They were here when I woke up… Mum's right, they've already seen what I look like now… But still…

"Is… Theo-…?" Tracey started, but stopped when she remembered that she was only risking further injury by talking.

"Is Theodore with them?" Susana finished for her, and Tracey gave a nod. "Auror, who exactly is threatening to make a scene?"

"A scrawny boy, who thinks he can buy St. Mungo's and force me out of the country," Roberto replied dully, clearly annoyed by Theo's dramatics. He's really here, then?!

"He's… not scrawny…" Tracey couldn't help herself, frowning at the Auror.

"What do you want me to do, Medi-Witch Dagny?" Roberto asked, but the Medi-Witch looked to Tracey instead.

Shrinking a little in her mother's hold, Tracey drew in a sharp breath before making her decision. I should take a shower, and tie up my hair. It's gotten too long. Making up her mind, despite her lingering doubts, Tracey pointed to her adjoined bathroom, hoping her mother understood her.

"You want to get ready first?" Susana blinked, and Tracey quickly nodded. "Auror, can you ask them to wait-?"

"Do it yourself," the Auror turned to leave, almost as if she were disappointed. "My job is to keep people out of this room, not play nanny to Death-Eater spawn." What did she just say? What the fuck?!

Tracey, Susana, the Nurses, and Aurora found themselves just staring at the Auror's back as she left, utterly horrified by the sheer hatred with which she had referred to Tracey's friends.

Tracey looked to her mother as soon as the door closed, and Susana pulled her even closer. Since when do Aurors refer to Pure-Bloods as Death-Eater spawn? What the actual fuck…?

"Mum, go…" Tracey quickly urged her mother, fearing for her friends. "Go, help… them…" Damnit! I can barely make a sound!

"No, I will go," Aurora suddenly spoke up, now looking furious. "Your mother and the nurses will help you bathe and dress, while I speak to this Auror's supervisor and demand an apology."

With that, Aurora marched out, leaving Tracey to wonder just how much she had missed during her coma.

---

Theodore Nott's POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (St. Mungo's – Past Midday)

Theo finished washing his face again, letting the water cool his skin instead of drying it off. In his reflection, he could still see that his eyes were blood-shot from crying his heart out in the stalls, which is why he was still hiding in the men's room.

The Gods had played a cruel trick on them all, returning only half of Tracey back to the people she belonged with.

"Fuck…" Theo grit out, feeling his eyes sting again as he slammed his hands on the counter. "Fuck!"

Was he just Cursed? Was that it? Anyone I get close to gets hurt… Mother, Ron, and now Tracey… I should've taken that Curse for Ron, not Trace… Just as I should've taken that 'bullet' for mother-…

"Theo?" came Blaise's voice, and the weedy boy quickly wiped at his eyes. "…Mate-…"

"What is it, Blaise?" Theo cleared his throat, unable to bring himself to look at his friend. "Are we allowed in yet?"

"No, and threatening to put an Auror out of a job with your Family's influence didn't help us," Blaise replied, twisting the knife in Theo's stomach. I know… I was stupid and angry, and I lashed out at a damn Auror of all people.

"All she had to do was let us through, we're Tracey's closest friends… Why would we have any reason to hurt her?" Theo hissed bitterly, pinching the bridge of his nose to stop the tears. "This is all so fucked, Blaise… How did we get here? What the fuck are we going to do about Tracey?" There has to be some way to undo this! There has to be, and I'm going to look under every rock until I find it… I promise, Trace.

"We don't do anything," Blaise replied, and Theo finally looked to him.

"What…?"

"The damage can't be reversed, mate…" Blaise looked down at his feet, even he was struggling to hide his pain. "All we can do is love and support her." Am… Am I really talking to Blaise here…? "Don't give me that look, I'm just repeating what Pansy's been saying because I think she's right. As terrible as this is for us, can you even imagine what Tracey must be going through?"

He had tried, and it had broken his heart into a million pieces. We used to talk for hours… And now, I'll never hear her voice again…

"… We can't just give up…" Theo managed, feeling his throat tighten again. Stop crying! Notts don't cry!

"No one is giving up," Blaise sighed out, looking back up. "But for now, I just want to see her with my own eyes… That's all I care about right now, and I know it's the same for you."

It was.

"Can I have a couple more minutes?" Theo sniffled, throwing more water on his face before turning off the tap.

"Sure, mate, I'll be outside," Blaise gave a nod, turning to leave.

"Hold on… I didn't ask before, but your mother really let you come here?" Theo asked, remembering just how withdrawn Blaise had been lately. "I thought that after Lord De Luca-"

"This isn't important right now, Theo," Blaise stopped at the door, not looking back. "Let's just worry about Tracey, all right?" Right…

Blaise left right after that, while Theo went back to staring at his haggard reflection. He's hiding something from me. What happened with his mother? Theo's gut tightened at the thought of Blaise being hurt by his mother, is that why he was being so deflective? If she did hurt him, then I can't come out and just ask him. It'll only make him more withdrawn.

"Fuck…" Theo grit out, cursing their foul luck of late.

He then moved away from the sink, drying his face with a fresh towel, which vanished the moment he put it down, being replaced by another from thin air. It took almost a minute after that to compose himself, to regain some semblance of control, after which he stepped out of the men's room.

"Theo!" Tori crashed into his side the moment he stepped outside, clinging to his arm. Tori?! "Are you okay?! Do you want anything?!" Stop yelling in my ear, please. Where did you even come from?

"Theo, you're here," came Daphne's relieved voice from his left, she was standing next to Blaise and Pansy with a copy of the Daily Prophet in her hand.

"You know about Trace?" Theo simply asked, gently pushing Tori off of himself. Not now, all right? Just not now…

"…I do…" Daphne all but whispered. "Did you hear about Ron?" What…?

"Ron?" Theo felt his heart climb into his throat, and when he looked to Blaise and Pansy, he realized that they looked even more disheartened than before. "…What happened to Ron…?" Why are the Gods punishing us this way?! What did we do wrong?!

"He had a seizure from his Portkey, it's all over the papers," Daphne's voice cracked, and she was quick to wipe at her eyes. "Fuck… I can't stop tearing up… Control yourself, Daphne…"

Theo felt Tori tense up upon hearing her sister cuss so openly, but he completely ignored her as he rushed forward for Daphne's copy of the Prophet. All over the news, my petite arse! Pulling out his own copy and comparing the two, Theo felt the wind being knocked out of his lungs upon realizing that his copy had been tampered with. I didn't even fucking notice that the first two pages are missing?!

"…Father…" Theo muttered under his breath, feeling lightheaded. Was he trying to protect me? Or, was it because he didn't want to read about a Blood-Traitor? This… What the fuck, father?! What's wrong with you, you hateful old bastard?!

"Theo?" Pansy moved to his side, noticing how pale he had become. "Your copy was different, right? You showed us…"

"His father must've fucked with it," Blaise said coldly, shaking his head. "Is Ron okay, Daphne? Do you know?"

"I don't… But he's with father, who'll look after him," Daphne said, as if trying to convince herself. "Father will keep him safe; I know he will."

"It says here that he's been disqualified… What the fuck?" Theo looked up from Daphne's copy. "They really threw him out because he missed a few games?"

"The first five, and it's more complicated than that," Daphne said, sneering at the paper. "They want to punish him for ousting them last year. Remember what happened in France?" Of course, Ron made Wizarding History by repelling all those Veela. "They were all in on a plan to hand the French a win, but Ron foiled their plans and publicly humiliated them. This… This is their way of getting 'even'."

"Merlin, what scum," Pansy said distastefully. "He's too good for them anyway, it's their loss." Agreed.

"You don't understand… Chess is his, but they stole it from him…" Daphne suddenly muttered, her eyes lingering on the paper. Pardon?

"What's that mean?" Blaise asked, just as confused as the rest of them.

"Never mind…" Daphne said bitterly; it was impossible not to sense the anger lurking just beneath the surface.

Whatever she knew about Ron and Chess, it was clearly too painful to share with the rest of them. Theo didn't know whether to be grateful, or, to ask for an explanation.

"We should worry about Tracey right now," Daphne shook her head clear. "We'll worry about Ron when we see him again. Is that all right with everyone?"

They all nodded, while Theo handed Daphne her copy back. I'm going to confront father about this… Ron's my best mate! How could he do this to me?!

"We can't tell Tracey about Ron," Theo barely managed to mask his anger, and Daphne nodded in agreement. "I'm talking about it all… How reclusive he's become, the suicide attempt, that sham trial, even him leaving Hogwarts… All of it."

"She's going to find out eventually, you two," Blaise countered. "All she has to do is ask any random she meets-…" he suddenly stopped, realizing what he had just said. "Shit, I'm sorry… I didn't mean-"

"It's okay, Blaise, and you're right," Pansy started, looking to Daphne. "But I'm with Theo and Daphne on this… She just woke up, and she doesn't need to hear how terrible our lives have been in her absence. We can't do that to her."

"Exactly," Daphne gave Pansy a weak smile. "She'll find out everything eventually, but it's not going to be today-"

"Where's Millie?" Tori suddenly asked them. "Shouldn't she be here too?" Yeah, where is she? Doesn't she care about Tracey? I get that she's guilty about fucking Ron over, but this is too much! Tracey's always been good to her, the least she can do is return the fucking favour!

"Her parents probably got in her way," Pansy was quick to defend her best friend. "I have a feeling that she confronted them about the Werewolves-" she stopped, looking to Tori.

"What? You can tell me," Tori said quickly. "What did her parents do to the Werewolves?" You don't want to know, Tori. People are fucking twisted…

"You don't think she's in any danger, do you?" Daphne asked Pansy, who quickly shook her head.

"No, they love her to bits," Pansy reminded them. "But… I can't imagine they appreciated her rebelling against them…"

"So, it's rebellion now to not want to be a fucking slaver? Or, a murderer?" Blaise sounded particularly hateful, which was odd given that he rarely showed his emotions. "Our parents… They're all fucking insane, and unlike us, Ron saw right through them from the start…"

"My parents aren't insane," Tori frowned at him.

"Really?" Blaise asked in response, while Daphne said nothing. "My mother once told me that she only feared a handful of people on this Earth, and your father happens to be one of them… My dearest mother, who murders men for pleasure in her spare time, goes out of her way to give your father a wide berth… Think about that."

With that, Blaise turned around and left, leaving them all speechless. All right, what the fuck happened between him and his mother?! He just outright admitted to her being a murderer! In front of little Tori, no less!

"What the fuck, Pansy?" Theo looked to her for an answer, while Daphne stopped Tori from following after Blaise and Hexing him in the back.

"Tori, no-!"

"Please, he's been through hell over the last couple of days," Pansy moved between the Greengrass sisters and Blaise's retreating back. "Just give him some space, he'll cool off…"

"Tosser…" Tori hissed, sheathing her wand. "My parents aren't insane." Oh, Mary's lovely, but your father… There's something just off about that man, I've always felt it. Even father would never dare to make moves on Lord Greengrass' properties and businesses, which says a lot, given my father's history.

"Now is not the time, Tori," Daphne said warningly. "If you have us thrown out of here, I will never forgive you."

"Pansy?" Theo nudged her. "You want to tell me what happened? Why was he with you this morning?

"After we see Trace, okay?" Pansy whispered, shooting a quick glance at Tori before following after Blaise.

"Come on, you little hellion," Daphne took Tori by the hand, and Theo quickly followed after the girls.

They all travelled down to the fourth floor again via the stairs, and Theo found himself dreading to see the Auror again. I hope I didn't fuck this up for all of us… I shouldn't have run my mouth like that, especially near an Auror. What was I thinking?! Oh, that's right, I wasn't thinking at all…

Just as they entered the fourth floor, they found Blaise standing perfectly still in the middle of the hallway, as if waiting for them. What happened to you, mate? What did that evil bitch do?!

"Blaise?" Pansy tapped his shoulder, but he quickly shushed her.

"Look, there's two Aurors now," Blaise told them, and Theo quickly followed his gaze.

Blaise was correct, there was another Auror here now, and he was conversing directly in front of Tracey's room with a Medi-Witch who looked furious with the pair of them. Oh, fuck… What did you do, Theo?

"Nice going, loose-lips," Blaise shot a frown back, making Theo shrink a little. "Goddamn moron." Fair, I deserved that.

"What did you do?" Daphne asked him.

"I just wanted to see her, okay…" Theo couldn't hide his frustration. "I… I didn't mean what I said-"

"Oh, shit, he's seen us," Blaise suddenly cut him off, and they all realized that the new Auror had suddenly turned on his heel and was now staring at them.

The older Auror beckoned them over, whilst clearly telling the Medi-Witch to calm herself. Deciding to own up for his error in judgement, Theo moved to the front and began walking down the hallway. I'll apologize to her and explain myself. Hopefully, that'll be enough to sort this out. They all stopped in front of the older Auror, who looked as though he hadn't slept in weeks, while the younger one glared right at Theo. Fuck… She's a bit scary, isn't she?

"I want a formal apology from your underling, Auror Robards," the Medi-Witch spoke before Theo could apologize, glaring daggers at the younger Auror.

"A formal apology, Ma'am?" Robards asked without looking away from the Slytherins, his expression unreadable. "Let me get to the bottom of this first, and then, we will see-"

"There is nothing to investigate here!" the Medi-Witch snapped. "Auror Roberto was completely unprofessional-!"

"Ma'am, if you keep raising your voice, I'll have Auror Roberto stun you," Robards suddenly raised his finger in her face, all the while staring right into Theo's soul. Stun her? For talking?! What the fuck?! You can't do that, even if you're an Auror!

"Stun me…?" the Medi-Witch took a step back, clearly shaken by the change in the man's voice.

"Yes, stun you, civilian," Robards now turned to face her, his voice as cold as ice. "You don't tell us Aurors what to do, am I clear? Get back inside and do your job, and we'll do ours. Go on, before I lose what's left of my patience. Fucking 'formal apology'… You bloody clown. Piss off!"

The Slytherins all took a step back at that as well, quickly realizing that something was terribly wrong here. As for the Medi-Witch, she looked between the children and the Aurors, before slowly making her way back into Tracey's room, a look of genuine fear etched on her face. We need to get away from this man-!

"Now, you… You little shit, come here," Robards turned back to Theo, aiming his palm at the weedy wizard, who was immediately seized by an invisible force and dragged right before the Auror. Oh, shit! Oh, fucking shit! "So, you're the Nott who's going to chase one of my Aurors out of the country, are you?"

"I… I…" Theo stammered, unable to raise his gaze. What is happening?! Aurors don't act like this!

"I… I…" Robards mocked his voice, before leaning down and catching Theo's gaze. "This woman right here to my left… She risks life and limb every morning she puts on that uniform, and she does it to keep shits like you safe from all the horrors hiding in the dark. Do you have any clue about the fucking terrors we see on a daily basis? Do you know that this woman, in her very short career, has helped save hundreds of lives? And you think you can use your daddy's blood money to threaten her livelihood? Her future? Well, allow me to break this delusion of yours… Times are changing, boy, and if I catch another Nott threatening an Auror, I'll bury what's left of your 'Great and Noble Family' myself." Oh, Gods… What the fuck…? I'm sorry…

"I'm… sorry…" Theo realized that he was sweating, and that his eyes had welled up. Don't start crying now, you fucking girl…

"I don't give a fuck about what you are!" Robards hissed. "You've wasted my fucking time in the middle of a damn manhunt, so consider yourself lucky that you're underage! Otherwise, I'd drag you down to Azkaban for a day. Maybe that'd teach that you're not some fucking prince, you're just some brat with a rich father!"

"Enough! Are you mental?!" Daphne suddenly barged between Robards and Theo, much to Theo's relief. "You can't speak to us this way-!"

Robards suddenly raised his hand, conjuring a lengthy metal baton and placing the tip right under Daphne's jaw, silencing and freezing her out of fear. No! Don't hurt her!

"Don't you touch her-" Blaise growled, but stopped the moment Robards looked in his direction.

"You see this, girl?" Robards then asked Daphne calmly, who was now shaking. "It's a gift from our overseas brethren… Times are changing, and I advise you lot to change with them." What the fuck is he talking about…? "Don't follow in your parents' footsteps, or, I'll be seeing you lot again under very different circumstances."

Robards then turned to Roberto, giving her a firm nod.

"I'm taking you off this pointless assignment, Maria," Robards said, sounding very sympathetic all of a sudden. "Take the day off, I'll explain everything to Alastor myself. Just remember to keep your calm, even if some civilian is disrespecting you. It's part of the job." Part of the job…? You just threatened to murder me and my father…

"Thank you, sir," Roberto said, shooting Theo a look of utter disdain before storming away.

"Are you going to make a scene after I leave?" Robards asked them, his voice a deadly whisper. "Are you going to disturb the peace in this hospital?" They all shook their heads, not a single one of them could find their voice. "Good, because if I have to come back here, I'll be pissed!" Yes, sir…

With that, Robards also turned on his heel and stormed off, shaking his head and muttering profanities under his breath. The Slytherins remained rooted in their spots well after he was gone, until Mrs. Davis came rushing outside, clearly looking for the Aurors.

"Where are they?" Mrs. Davis demanded, glaring down the hallway. "Where did these 'Aurors' go?"

"They… just left…" Daphne managed; Theo had never seen her so spooked. She jumped in front of me, and I just fucking stood there… I'm such a coward…

"Bloody thugs!" Mrs. Davis hissed, rushing over and pulling Daphne into an embrace. "They didn't hurt any of you, did they? Theodore? Are you all right?" I think so…

"I'm really sorry-" Theo started, but was quickly shushed and pulled into a hug.

"It's okay, love," Mrs. Davis rubbed his back, before guiding him towards the door. "C'mon on, all of you. Best get inside before there's any more trouble."

---

Tracey Davis' POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (St. Mungo's – Past Midday)

Tracey stared at the door with equal dread and anticipation, while Aurora applied the Numbing Balm over her scar before covering it with a fresh bandage. The Medi-Witch had returned from her conversation with the Auror in utter silence, only speaking with Susana in hushed whispers before continuing her work with Tracey. I wonder what's going on outside. I really hope Theo didn't get himself into trouble over me.

"Are you nervous?" Aurora suddenly asked, just as one of the Nurses tied Tracey's hair in a high ponytail.

Tracey nodded in response; how could she not be nervous?

"There's nothing to be nervous about, Tracey," Aurora said, taking a step back and inspecting her. "You look beautiful." Really?

Tracey smiled gratefully at her Nurses, Tabitha Denzel and Zara Holmes, both of whom seemed very fond of her, despite the fact that Tracey had only just met them this morning. Well, I just met them, but they've been looking after me ever since I got here. I have to thank them.

"…Thank you…" Tracey rasped, feeling a jolt of pain in her neck. "Ow…"

"Tracey…" Aurora sighed out, giving her a scolding look. I know… I shouldn't talk… But still, thank you for looking after me.

"You've got this," Zara winked, while Tabitha gave her a thumbs-up.

"We'll be right here if you need us," Tabitha added, both Nurses stepping back when they heard the door click.

Tracey's heart jumped into her throat, and she quickly sat up straighter, staring nervously as her mother let her friends in. Theo was at the front, looking haunted, and just the sight of him made Tracey so nervous that she dug her fingers into her bed. Maybe I should've waited before-…

"Tracey!" Pansy and Tori cried out together, their faces suddenly splitting into demented smiles as they began running towards her. Oh! Wait, wait, wait! I'm not ready-!

Tori, despite her tiny form, leapt onto the bed and landed right on Tracey's legs, hugging them and making the strangest squeals Tracey had ever heard. Pansy, on the other hand, had pulled Tracey into a bone-crushing hug, peppering her gaunt face with kisses and tears of joy. Oh, my God, Pansy! You just kissed me on the lips! What are you doing-?!

Tracey suddenly felt herself being pulled away from Pansy, only to end up face-first in Daphne's bosom, her best friend was somehow crying and laughing like a lunatic at the same time. She's crushing my head with her massive tits! Help me!

Regardless of her rough handling, Tracey was quickly brought to the brink of tears as her friends embraced her, overwhelming her with their combined love. Her mother had been right all along; her friends cherished her and nothing would ever change that.

"How do you feel?" Daphne suddenly pulled back, looking her over with teary eyes. A million times better now that you're all here. "We're not hurting you, are we? Oh, Gods, Tracey, we've all missed you so much!"

Before Tracey could even respond, her face was once again buried in her best friend's chest. The Nurses could be heard sniffling in the background, while Susana and Aurora watched over them with content smiles.

"Mind if we have a turn?" came Blaise's soft voice, and Daphne finally let her go.

"Of course, come over here!" Daphne hopped off the bed, gesturing the boys to take her spot. "Can you two believe it?! She's really back!" Please, don't cry, Daphne. Why are you all crying? You'll make me cry too!

"I can now that I've seen her," Blaise answered, both he and Theo were still lingering by the end of her bed, staring at her in awe.

It jarred Tracey to see her boys crying over her, especially the ever-calm Blaise, who moved first and stopped right next to her, sitting down where Daphne had been just a moment ago. Not wanting to ruin this perfect moment with her torn voice, Tracey merely opened her arm and pulled Blaise in close, resting her head on his shoulder.

"You're truly a sight for sore eyes, Tracey Davis," Blaise whispered, just loud enough that only she could hear him. Aw! I love you too, Blaise!

Tracey looked to Theo over Blaise's shoulder, their eyes finally meeting and becoming fixed on one another. He looked spellbound, just standing at the foot of her bed with a growing blush on his face. Aren't you going to welcome me back too, Theodore?

"Stop staring at her and hug her, you oaf!" Pansy laughed, casually playing with Tracey's ponytail.

Blaise pulled out of Tracey's hug and moved to Daphne's side, signalling the other boy to take his spot. Theo slowly began to move, smacking his knee on the side of the bed, yet refusing to look away from her. The moment he sat down, Tracey scooted forward just to be closer to him, despite little Tori still holding her legs down. I must've scared you terribly, Theo… I'm so sorry. You, of all people, shouldn't have had to see me like that.

"You're really back…" Theo's voice cracked, his fingers lightly grazing her cheek, as if making sure that she wasn't a dream.

When he had confirmed that she was indeed real, he lunged forward and desperately pulled her into his arms, burying his face in her shoulder. Tracey hugged him back with equal passion, feeling his tears soak into her hospital gown as he broke apart at the seams. In-between his sobs, he managed to tell her how often he had dreamed of this very moment, which only made Tracey tighten her hold. I don't ever want to let go! I'm so sorry, Theo!

"Tracey, ease up on him, won't you?" her mother advised, but Tracey ignored her and only squeezed tighter. "Tracey, you're hurting him! Stop it!" What?!

Tracey immediately let go and shot back, finally realizing that Theo had been left wheezing for air from her 'hug'. She quickly looked to Aurora and her mother, both of whom looked alarmed by her strength. I… I didn't mean to… How did I do that?

"Bloody hell…" Theo started, clearing his throat. "Guess this proves that I'm the favourite, huh?" What…?

Tracey looked back to Theo with a sorry expression, but was surprised to see him smiling from ear-to-ear, clearly not upset in the slightest. She mouthed the word 'Sorry', but Theo just shook his head before leaning forward and planting a tender kiss on her right cheek, causing her face to flush. Woah, that was… really nice…

"YES!" Pansy squealed excitedly, making Tracey blush even more. "Finally! It's happening!" Nothing is happening, you pervert! Oh, god, he really just planted one on me?! Right in front of mum?!

"Give her a proper one, Theo!" Tori giggled, making the rest laugh and cheer him on. Mum?! You too?! Wow…

Theo, however, was now as red as a tomato, making Tracey's heart skip another beat. Maybe later, he could-… No, stop that! You can think about this when it's just you two! Merlin, he really kissed me, though… Tracey couldn't help her bashful smile, unable to contain how happy his one simple gesture had made her, much to her embarrassment when her friends started teasing them again. Oh, shut up, and hug me!

Tracey opened her arms again, feeling safe and loved as all her friends joined in, with Theo and her in the middle, and for the first time since she had woken up from her coma, Tracey finally found herself glad to be alive. Why did I ever doubt them? Now, where are Ron, Millie, and Draco? I can't wait to see them too!

---

The Champion's POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (Four Seasons Hotel, New York – Afternoon)

Ron finished doing up his sleek, silver tie, giving his black, three-piece suit a nod of approval in the mirror. Now, the pocket square. Just remember Marty's instructions on how to make a three-point crown. Once his pocket square was safely tucked in, Ron reached into his suit pocket and pulled out a vial of Calming Draught, which he quickly downed. Oh, fuck, that's what I needed… Here we go. Time to face the big bad world once again. Gauntlets secured. Just a hint of Numbing Balm in place. And in this suit, I look like the sexiest corpse in all of America. Brilliant.

As the potion took effect, the Champion exited his bathroom and made his way towards the living area. He was still unsure about seeing Tracey, but thanks to the Calming Draught, his guilt and fears were drowned by his need to make sure that his efforts hadn't been a waste of time. I'll find some way to restore her voice too, I swear it, but for now, I should focus on Ilvermorny. I need to find these Sages and make them spill all their secrets to me. I'm not some cunt's fucking Horcrux!

"Ronald, you're awake already?" came Dumbledore's voice from the kitchen, and the Champion turned to see the old man standing over a boiling pot, adorned in a bright pink apron. What. The. Fuck? "Take a seat, I'm making my mother's famous mutton stew!" Just ignore the apron. Don't give him the satisfaction.

They both just stared at each other, and the Champion could see that the old man was struggling not to grin at him. I'm getting fucked from every possible angle here, and he's making jokes? Whatever, this isn't worth my time.

The Champion broke eye-contact and looked to the couches instead, feeling his jaw clench the moment his eyes landed on Sebastian Greengrass. The pale man was sitting in front of the glass coffee table, his eyes fixed on the parchments that were spread over it, all of which had come from the file on him. Ah… Now, I get it. The silly apron. The mutton stew. The old man has set up a stage where he can watch over this cretin. Does he really trust me that little? Smart.

The Champion drew in a deep breath, allowing his Occlumency to further subdue his emotions. I need to think logically about my next step. Greengrass is an invaluable asset, and there's no doubt in my mind that, in his own way, he does love me, so I can't just make him disappear, but I still need to show him that he can't lie to me ever again. I still can't believe I fell for that shite… I'm such a stupid fuck.

"Scared, my Lord?" the Champion broke his silence, and Sebastian finally looked up.

"…Ron… You're awake…" Sebastian sat up straighter, the lack of guilt on his face twisted the Champion's stomach. He really couldn't give two shits about them, even if he tried. They're just 'Half-Breeds' to him. Well, funny how that works, eh, because I'm a Half-Breed too. The Gods just can't help but fuck with people, can they?

"And you're a liar and a thief," the Champion hissed, waving his gloved hand and packing up all the parchments neatly into the file.

Dumbledore watched in silence, but he was no doubt prepared to stop the Champion if things escalated.

"A liar, yes, but never a thief," Sebastian sighed out, lowering his gaze. "Son, listen-"

"I'm not your son," the Champion stated simply enough, relishing the hurt behind Sebastian's eyes, but it was still only a fraction of the misery this man had caused others. "You lied to me, and you stole from those Centaurs and Merpeople. You stole their lands, their children's futures, and you're going to sit there and keep lying about it? Do you have any idea what I can do to you with this information? To your family? I can make sure that they're spat upon in every corner of the world going forward, so choose your next words very carefully. Are you a liar and a thief?"

Sebastian drew in a sharp breath, shaking his head. Well? Answer me.

"No more than you, Ron," Sebastian replied eventually, making the Champion laugh coldly. "I think it's best if we have this conversation in private-"

"You're right, I do lie and I have stolen," the Champion started. "But every action I take is for a goal far beyond your understanding, whereas you are just full of greed. I serve a higher purpose." And I also love killing Death-Eaters. It's just too much fun!

"A higher purpose? That land was always mine, my family's," Sebastian stood up, frowning at the Champion. "I respectfully asked those Centaurs to leave, but they refused to because their damn stars told them not to. They're savages, Ron! They don't understand that you can't just pitch your tent wherever you damn well please! And the Ministry… They did nothing to help me because of who I am, because of what I was forced to do in the Great War." Yeah, I don't want to hear about your life as a Death-Eater. Are you trying to get yourself killed? "It didn't stop them from accepting my charity, mind you, but they didn't lift a finger to help my case." Ministry helps former Death-Eater harass Centaurs? Yeah, I can see why they didn't help you. Stop throwing yourself a pity party, you made your own bed.

"What was so important about this land that you'd kill for it?" the Champion asked simply, not wanting to prolong this conversation. If he keeps going, I'll fucking throw him off the balcony. Damn this Calming Draught, it's not doing shit!

"Both regions are rich in oil and minerals, which I sell to Muggles for millions through various shell companies," Sebastian replied. Oil and minerals? "We have to dig deep into the Earth for such treasures-"

"And neither species are too fond of exploiting Mother Earth," the Champion remembered his lessons, and Sebastian gave a nod.

"I offered to pay them, I offered to relocate them, I even offered them a cut of the profits, but they just kept refusing, all the while squatting on my land and refusing to let my workers do their jobs," Sebastian explained. "So, yes, I got rid of them, but unlike my fellow Pure-Bloods, I still helped them find new homes-"

"You mean, Mary forced you to do it," the Champion cut in, knowing that his mentor was not so compassionate as to waste a single Knut on those he didn't care for. I think I'm getting the full picture now. "She fought with you over this, didn't she?"

"Yes… Yes, she didn't appreciate my…" he trailed off; this was clearly a sore subject. See?! Even your bloody wife knows that you went too far! "I am not an evil man, Ron. I'm just a businessman, acquiring assets-"

"Like me?" the Champion interjected.

"You're not just some asset to me anymore, Ron…" Sebastian aged a decade. "I've brought you into my home, made you a part of my family… I know you're angry with me, but it doesn't change how I feel about you. You don't have to forgive me, but please, don't doubt that I love you as if you were my own." Fuck off. You won't con me twice, you fucking maggot. I don't need your love; I need you to stop being a cunt.

"Your tongue is made of silver, just as your heart is made of coal," the Champion said icily, sneering as his mentor's face fell. "Over a dozen Merpeople, and seven Centaur children… You poisoned them, a coward's weapon! You will never commit such acts again, am I understood? Not for anything, because I won't be so merciful next time." You're lucky I love your wife and daughters… At least, it's good to know that Mary ripped him a new one, but she should've forced him to stop instead. Fucking half-measures!

Being done with this conversation, the Champion turned to leave, shooting a frown at Dumbledore on the way out. Should've let me beat the shit out of him. He deserves that much, at the very least!

"Ronald, where are you going?" Dumbledore asked, following after the Champion.

"I'm leaving before I do something stupid," the Champion replied, his fists clenched. Oil and minerals… They were bloody kids, you heartless fuck!

"But I made stew-"

"Fuck your stew!" the Champion slammed the door shut behind him, before leaning back against it. Calm down… Calm the fuck down, old boy. Fuck!

The Champion drew in several deep breaths, allowing the Calming Draught to do its work. He was so full of anger in this moment that he feared he'd explode, taking this entire building with him. I need to go for walk… I need to be anywhere but near that man! For both our sakes!

The Champion began storming down the luxurious hallway, hitting himself over the skull repeatedly to let some anger out. A Muggle family noticed him, and both parents quickly rushed their children into their room as he passed by them. Yeah, I'm fucking insane! Hide your kids! You people have driven me fucking bonkers! And where the fuck am I going?!

---

One Hour Later

"Found you," Artyom hissed as he approached the Champion's table, frowning deeply. "Why not wake me before leaving? Foolish boy."

"How did you find me?" the Champion looked up from his empty plate, he had found his way to the hotel's restaurant and ordered several dishes for himself, none of which had arrived yet.

"I asked around," Artyom sat down across from him. "There are reports of angry, red-haired man in suit all over hotel. You punched hole in wall." I was thinking of the Dark Lord's face, and what I'd like to do to it. Plus, they let me off when they realized who I was. I even paid them back.

"Yeah… Well, I've calmed down now…" the Champion said, letting out a long breath. "Sorry for worrying you, mate."

"You fought with Greengrass," Artyom said, studying him. "Dumbledore told me." Wait… Fuck's sake…

"Did he wake you up and send you to look for me?" the Champion asked, and Artyom gave a nod. "He didn't wake up Professor Snape, did he?" Please, tell me he didn't fuck me over like that.

"No."

'Thank fuck, a boot up my arse is the last thing I need right now," the Champion breathed a sigh of relief. "You hungry? I ordered plenty of food."

Artyom simply gave another nod in response, while the Champion poured his companion a glass of water. They both sat in silence for a few minutes, with the Champion ignoring Artyom's unblinking stare. Why is he eye-fucking me, though-?

"I am sorry," Artyom suddenly said, and the Champion cocked an eyebrow. "About Greengrass. I know it hurts you."

"Then, stop bringing it up, eh?" the Champion frowned a little, and Artyom gave yet another nod. It's like I'm talking to a statue. "… I thought I knew the man, Artyom, but I was just blinded by love… I feel like a chump…" A fucking loser.

"I do not doubt he loves you, but he does not love what you stand for," Artyom said.

"I thought I could convince him to change, but I guess I'm not enough, huh?" the Champion laughed mirthlessly. "I'm never enough… Fuck it. Can we discuss anything else?"

"Like what?" Artyom asked. You know, I don't really know… I… I don't have anything good to discuss. It's all just shit.

"Actually, let's just enjoy blessed silence for once," the Champion said coldly, pulling out his second vial of Calming Draught and taking a small sip before putting it back. That's better.

Artyom continued to stare at him, right up until the waiter strolled over with a trolley. Perfect timing. Good on you, mate.

"Here you are, Mr. Weasley," the waiter said excitedly, grinning widely at him as he moved the dishes onto the table. "We have… a Texas-style smoked brisket. Two cheeseburgers. Ten buffalo wings. Large fries. A vanilla milkshake. And finally, the blueberry cobbler. Dear God, I must admit, the entire staff is very curious to see you finish all of this." I could unhinge my jaw and swallow that entire brisket whole. I wonder what the staff will think of that?

"He will," Artyom said, having witnessed the Champion's appetite firsthand.

"Are you two sharing, or…?" the waiter pulled out his notepad, losing some of his excitement when he met Artyom's dull gaze.

"Get the cheese steak," the Champion whispered. "I wanted to try that too." If it's a steak covered in cheese, I'll cream myself.

"I will have cheese steak," Artyom rolled his eyes. "And whiskey, neat."

"I'll have that out in ten," the waiter jotted down the order, and then he looked to the Champion expectantly. What? What do you want? "Um… Sir… If it's not too much trouble, do you think I could grab your autograph?" Sir? Fine, whatever. It's just an autograph.

"Sure," the Champion said, putting some joy into his voice. "You're a fan of chess, I take it?"

"Oh, no, my little sister has a massive poster of you on her wall," the waiter clarified. "It's for her. Her birthday's coming up, and I want to surprise her." I like that. You're all right, mate.

"So, she likes chess?" the Champion asked.

"No, she's just obsessed with you," the waiter chuckled nervously, handing the Champion something to write with. Obsessed? Okay…

"What's this? It's made of glass?"

"It's a ballpoint pen, Sir, and it's plastic," the waiter explained, while the Champion signed Ronald Weasley's signature on the napkin provided. "We have both No-Maj and Wizarding staff here, so we have to be very careful about what we bring into work."

"Wait… You have wizards and witches working alongside Muggles?" the Champion asked, slightly puzzled. "Doesn't that risk the Statute of Secrecy?"

"Well, yes… But they're our fellow Americans, we can't just ignore them," the waiter replied as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. "As a matter of fact, President Harper always encourages us to incorporate No-Majes into our daily lives. 'The only way forward is hand in hand with our No-Maj brothers and sisters'! Ahem… Sorry, it's just something he says often on the radio." Woah, this is… I didn't expect this. I'd very much like to meet this Harper fellow. Shake his hand, at the very least. Maybe tell him about how his Aurors bent me over too?

"Well, maybe I should move down here?" the Champion joked, handing the napkin and 'ballpoint pen' over. "My countrymen are a bunch of cunts when it comes to Muggle-kind."

The waiter's jaw dropped, and his face went beet-red. What? What did I say?

"Um… I'm sorry to hear that, Sir…" the waiter let out another nervous chuckle. "I should go give your new order to the chef. Please, enjoy your meal. And thank you so much for this, my sister is going to love it."

The waiter then rushed off, much to the Champion's confusion. What just happened?

"What did I say?" the Champion looked to Artyom, who was pinching the bridge of his nose.

"The fact you don't know concerns me…" Artyom muttered under his breath. "Just eat your food." Oh, well. He was a nice enough bloke.

"Have some as well," the Champion offered, deciding to ignore whatever he had done wrong. "This is authentic American cuisine. You can't miss out on this. There's not much I care for in this world, Artyom, but even I can't refuse good food."

Artyom gave a nod, and they both tried a buffalo wing each. Merlin… I was born in the wrong fucking country! The Champion dug into his food in earnest at that, no doubt terrifying the locals around him. Good Gods! Even the chips are beyond amazing! Our people don't know dogshit about food!

"What's plan after this?" Artyom asked, putting two slices of brisket on the Champion's plate.

"I'm going back to England after this, to beg Tracey for forgiveness," the Champion replied. "Whereas you, my gloomy friend, are going to pay the American Aurors a visit. Tell them I sent you, and grab whatever documents they hand over. Once this Ilvermorny business is sorted, we're going to war against our real enemies, and this time, we'll be armed and ready." I will hunt them down one by one, until not a single one of them remains. This is my fucking planet, and I decide who gets to live here!

---

Amelia Bones' POV

Tuesday 23rd March, 1994 (The Ministry of Magic – Late Evening)

A sudden knock at the door disturbed Amelia's work, and with a wave of her hand, she opened the door.

"What is it, Abigail?" Amelia asked, not looking up. "I'm very busy-"

"It's President Harper, Minister, from the States!" Abigail replied quickly, and Amelia immediately looked up. What? What the hell is he doing here? "He just showed up with a bottle of scotch, said that you two had a…" she trailed off, giving Amelia a knowing smile.

"Had a what?" Amelia frowned.

"…A date…" Abigail was clearly holding back a grin. That lunatic… First, he randomly sends my Aurors his finest weaponry, and now, he shows up here unannounced? What is he playing at?

"Just send him in, will you?" Amelia decided to take a break, she'd worked all throughout the day, even forgetting to eat.

Abigail gave a nod before leaving, and shortly after, there was another knock at the door. Here we go. The mad President of America. The man who never sleeps.

"Hello, hello!" Harper sauntered into her office with a bottle of top-shelf scotch, his wide grin clashing terribly against his baggy eyes and pallid skin. "Ministership suits you, Amelia! Drop dead sexy as always!" Good fucking Lord… Put me out of my misery, please.

Ignoring Rufus' ghost, who was staring at her from the darkest corner of her office, Amelia rose up and offered Jack Harper her hand. He was a skeletal, middle-aged wizard with light brown hair, the sides of which had gone completely grey. He shook her hand hard, jerking it back and forth before letting go. What the fuck?

"President Harper, I must admit I'm surprised to see you here," Amelia put on a civil smile. "What can I do for you?"

"Oh, actually, it's what I can do for you that brings me here," Harper laughed, his manic, hazel eyes shooting from one object to another rapidly. Merlin, that's unnerving. What is he doing? Is… he making note of everything in my office?

"I don't understand," Amelia said. "Why are you here, President Harper? This is most irregular; you should've made an appointment with my secretary."

"No, no, no that's too boring," Harper clicked his tongue. "I like to be spontaneous! Show up when someone least expects it! Helps me catch them off-guard!" Right…

"Why are you here, Harper?" Amelia repeated, losing some of her patience.

Harper grinned at her in response, raising his arms to his side. "I'm here to save Magical Britain, baby!" What. The. Fuck?! "Trust me, Amelia, you wanna hear what I have to say! You're gonna love it!"

---

Author's Notes: Yes, I'm back, and I'm sorry for being gone so long. Without getting into too much details, I'll just say that I got hit by a writer's block so hard that it got sent to prison right after... It was fucked! Anyway, more reunions to come next time! See you soon-ish!