Until The End

Until The End

Chapter 18: Incessant Grief

"No Sacrifice, No Victory!"

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

Platform 9¾ - Saturday, June 28th, 1992 (6:45 p.m.)

"Ron, wake up, we're almost here," came the distant voice of Daphne. Ron blearily opened his eyes and rubbed them harshly. Ron glanced over to his friends and found Millie feeding her cat some treats, Blaise and Theo talking to each other, Pansy reading one of her Witch Weekly magazines, Tracey combing her hair, and Daphne humming a tune to herself.

Ron then took his gaze over to the window and took in the beautiful fields of never-ending green pastures and he sighed to himself. Ron didn't know how he would be spending his summer holidays. He knew for sure that he would complete all of his homework assignments, and unlike many other students, he welcomed this method as a way to distract him from his thoughts.

Other than that, Ron decided to hang out with his Slytherin friends and hang around his family as much as he could because he knew that the second he allowed himself to be consumed by loneliness, he would spiral into madness. Xavier Desmond, his best mate, and brother-like friend was making no progress in waking up and it scared the complete shit out of Ron. And not only for him, but for his Slytherin friends, the Golden Trio, and even his family.

Even after partying hard, laughing irrepressible, and momentarily forgetting their troubling fears and anxious thoughts, the seven snakes regressed to their feelings of depression and despair. Throughout the train ride, students continued to enter Ron's compartment and give their condolences. At this point, Ron just ignored it, while Tracey or Daphne would thank the students and gesture them to leave.

That deep pit of anxiety had grown inside Ron. What the fuck was he supposed to do if Xavier was dead? If it weren't for Xavier, a Troll would have bashed Ron's head to death. Without Xavier, Ron would have been possessed by the spiteful spirit of the Dark Lord. Without Xavier, Ron would have never found the Secret Duelling Room. Even with bloody Peter Pettigrew, Xavier stood by Ron's side and aided him to capture and expose that bloody rat to the world. And of course, Xavier was Ron's first friend. Xavier sat with Ron when he was sorted into Slytherin, confirming their newfound friendship and Ron felt grateful enough to have one person by his side. And now, that person was said to die… It was all too much for Ron and the only reasons that he stayed sane were because of his friends and family, who were all going through the same grief.

Ron's thoughts were halted as he felt the momentum of the Hogwarts Express slow down. He looked back to his friends, and they were all getting ready to depart from the compartment.

Once the train stopped and the sounds of students exchanging goodbyes emitted around Ron, he and his friends exited the train and walked onto the platform. With ease, Ron inspected his surroundings, trying to locate his family and once he saw his mother in the distant crowd, he was about to walk off before a hand gripped his own tightly. It was Tracey's, and Ron turned back to face her and her friends.

"Have a good holiday, Ron," Tracey said with a sad smile, and she came forth to hug Ron tightly. Ron blushed and hugged her back slowly.

"You too, Trace. Enjoy America. I'll be there to celebrate you and Daphne's birthday parties," Ron responded, and both girls beamed at him.

"I'll see you around, mate," Theo spoke up, holding a hand out. Ron took it and shook it firmly.

"Try not to think too hard, all right Ron?" came Blaise's voice, and Ron faced his dark-skinned friend. Ron nodded and the two exchanged a firm handshake.

"I'll see you at Daphne's place, right?" Millie asked, and Ron nodded.

"I'll be there," Ron promised before shaking Millie's hand. The big girl wasn't the biggest fan of hugging people and Ron respected that. Ron then turned to Pansy to find her latching onto him and hugging him tightly.

"Oh, Ron, please stay safe, ok? Xavier will be all right, he has to be!" Pansy cried, and Ron hugged her tightly.

"I will, Pans. Are you going to throw a birthday party?" Ron asked, and Pansy shook her head.

"No, mother wouldn't approve, especially because you know…" Pansy responded, blushing in shame. Ron smiled reassuringly at her. Of course, I almost forgot that I'm a Blood Traitor…

"I will make sure to send you a gift," Ron said, and Pansy smiled at him. Ron then turned to Daphne and the blonde girl marched up to him before hugging him as well. The tips of Ron's ears burned red. Theo and Tracey both chuckled at this.

"Promise to write to me, Ron. And make sure to come over," Daphne requested firmly, and Ron nodded softly. "My home is always ready to welcome you."

"I promise," Ron whispered, and Daphne pecked his cheek.

"Please don't think too much about Xavier, all right? Remember what you said? He would hate it for us to worry over him," Dahne reminded gently, and Ron nodded strongly.

"You're right, Daph. Have a great holiday you lot," Ron said, releasing Daphne and smiling gratefully to them all. They all returned the gesture, and Ron turned around to go join his family. As he carried his trunk and Bruno's cage, he spotted the trio all waiting for their family members. I hope Harry gets to stay with his godfather, Sirius Black… his muggle family are horrible to him…

The trio spotted him, and they smiled at him. Ron nodded back to them and continued, gulping at how terrible they actually looked instead. Hermione still had the dark bags under her eyes, Harry was still very distant and pale, and Neville simply looked tired and frightened.

"Ronnie!" came the familiar call of his mother and Ron turned to see his mother and Ginny waving at him. Percy, Fred, and George were talking to their father, and Ron sighed as he approached them.

"Oh, Ronnie, my baby boy!" his mother cried, and she hugged Ron tightly. She has surely broken my back…

"I'm all right, mum," Ron mumbled, trying his best to get released from her grip. His mother let go of him and analysed every inch of his body.

"You've got bags under your eyes, dear," she tutted. "And do you even eat at all?"

"Yes, mum, I do," Ron reassured, though he was lying about the fact that the last few days were endured with small or no meals.

Ginny then came forth and hugged her favourite brother tightly. Ron chuckled; she was bigger than the last time he remembered.

"You missed me, Gin?" Ron asked, and Ginny huffed.

"Yes, you stopped writing letters to me," Ginny replied with her arms crossed, but she then smiled brightly. "But I have had Arnold with me, so it wasn't too boring."

Ron stared at the purple Pygmy Puff that sat on Ginny's left shoulder and his stomach churned again. Xavier bought that for her, didn't he?

Ginny noticed Ron's expression and sniffed sadly. Ron hugged her tighter.

"Do you think… Xavier will be all right?" Ginny asked meekly, and Ron did his best to hold back tears. Damn it Ron, you weakling…

"I… I don't know…" Ron simply replied. He couldn't promise a yes, that would just be foolish. And Ron couldn't say no either… Xavier wasn't actually dead at all. Not yet anyway... It was what the Healers of St. Mungo's discussed, that is, from what Rita Skeeter informed.

"Come on, love," their mother said, holding Ron and Ginny close to her. "Let's go home."

Xavier Desmond's P.O.V:

Dream Wool's Orphanage

A blinding light flashed, and Xavier's eyes snapped open. What the fuck?

Xavier got up to find himself standing on one of the hills that overlooked the large estate of Wool's Orphanage. For some odd reason, it felt like there was nothing else around in the world. There was no Moon, no Sun, no stars, no humans, no animals, not even the slightest flicker of movement or sound. There was only Wool's Orphanage that Xavier could view from the top of a hill and complete blackness surrounded it. What the actual fuck… where am I? If this is Wool's Orphanage, then where the fuck is everything else in the world?!

Xavier suddenly got the unsettling feeling that he wasn't actually alone. Xavier turned around and he hitched his breath when he caught sight of a familiar large, black wolf-like dog, staring back with glowing red eyes. The dog didn't move or snarl. It didn't even bare its teeth. It just stared at Xavier. It's The Grim, isn't it? Am I right?

"Who are you?" Xavier demanded, slowly approaching the stiff figure. "Why are you here? Why am I here? Are you… The Grim?"

For a moment or two, nothing happened, and time stood still. Before Xavier could or say anything more, the dog then grew and transformed into a larger form. Xavier stepped back with wide eyes as a tall and skeletal humanoid figure stood before him. It had claws for fingers, long, sharp horns on its head, pointed wings, and gleaming red eyes. Xavier couldn't see its face, save for the devilish red eyes. The demon was covered in all black and seemed to be floating inches off the ground. Xavier instantly was reminded of the first time he looked into the Mirror of Erised. This is it… this is THE demon… The Grim…

"Welcome, Xavier Asmodeus Desmond… It has been a very long time… a very long time indeed…" The Grim spoke, and Xavier palpably tried his best to ignore that horrifying voice and look past the fact that this beast knew his full name. The Death Omen spoke with no flicker of emotion in its inhuman, heart-stopping voice.

"So… it's really you… The Grim…" Xavier muttered, staring at the demon in the face. Nah, this ain't no demon… this HAS to be the Devil…

"Where are we? Why are we here?" Xavier asked slowly, eyeing the scaly, pointed wings. The Grim appeared as a ghostly, spectral figure, but Xavier could tell that this creature was somewhat solid. All of it made no sense whatsoever…

"We are in your mind, Warrior. Your heart chose to envision the location that you grew up in. We are here due to your body slowly healing itself, Warrior," The Grim responded, towering over Xavier. Xavier looked back over to the imaginary orphanage. I guess that makes sense… no wonder there's nothing else here…

"How did I get here?" Xavier asked in confusion, looking back to The Grim.

"The Heir to Salazar Slytherin attempted to gain control of your soul and possess your body, Warrior. We intercepted his mission and in doing so, We damaged his soul insignificantly," The Grim responded, its crimson eyes glaring into the distance. Xavier felt memories flood back to him and he almost felt awed. The Heir to Slytherin as is in the Dark lord… he tried to possess me? And this Devil interfered? Unbelievable…

"But why? Why are you here? You are an Omen of Death. Are you… are you possessing me?" Xavier questioned, feeling that urge of throwing the reoccurring questions that he had thought about all this and last year.

"Yes, Warrior, We are deeply embedded in your mind. However, We have not possessed you as We cannot bestow the act of forcing yourself to act as We command," The Grim replied, and Xavier nodded in understanding. "We are Death's Most Loyal… We must complete Our mission in collecting the severed soul of the Heir to Salazar Slytherin."

"He has cheated death, hasn't he?" Xavier asked, already knowing the answer to his question.

"Indeed, Warrior. We chose you and you have been a perfect choice. Your thinking processes differ from the other human beings on this Earth…" the Grim spoke, and Xavier slowly walked closer to the terrifying figure of The Grim.

"So… you're inside my mind and your mission is to capture the Dark Lord. Why can't you just find him and kill him outright?" Xavier questioned quietly.

"Those are not fundamental methods, Young Warrior. Fate is always calculating new Destinies for every living being on this planet. The Dark Lord escaped Our wrath and now, his destiny has changed its course once again. But We assure you, with Our Help, We will bring devastation upon the Heir to Salazar Slytherin, and We will collect his disgusting soul and send him right to the depths of burning Hell…" The Grim stated horridly, and Xavier couldn't help but shudder. Fate… The Grim… Imaginary Wool's Orphanage… this mission… it was all surreal…

Xavier turned back once more to view the imaginary sight of Wool's Orphanage which was surrounded by a sea of pitch black… an oblivion of nothingness. The Dark Lord had charged at Ron to possess him… but Xavier had jumped in front to save him… The Dark Lord was alive, and he would come back to cause pain and immense suffering to the whole Earth. The Dark Lord had already caused enough destruction to both Wizarding and Non-Wizarding communities before and Xavier had a strong feeling that the premonition of his return would come sooner than expected. After all, Xavier had seen him in the Forbidden Forest, and he had encountered him in the chambers that guarded the Philosopher's Stone.

Xavier felt a sudden flow of indescribable rage and he cracked his neck ferociously. Xavier's black eyes were replaced with demonic, blood-thirsty eyes that glared perpetually. Xavier faced The Grim and the Hell Demon stepped forward, matching Xavier's bloodlust eyes.

"Let us destroy the Dark Lord and whoever stands by his side, Master," Xavier spoke, kneeling before the Devil. The Grim let out a terrifying cackle, and Xavier looked back at it, unknowingly grinning evilly.

"You will make quite the quintessential vessel for Our mission, Young Warrior. We must end the conversation, Xavier Asmodeus Desmond. We must continue Our progress in healing your body. We will meet again…" The Grim spoke and within seconds, everything disappeared before Xavier's eyes with a destructive flash of light.

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Saturday, June 28th, 1992 (7:20 p.m.)

Ron closed his bedroom door behind him and plopped himself on his bed, not before emitting a loud sigh. The car ride had been hard enough; his parents kept whispering to themselves about Xavier's whole ordeal, his older brothers kept their stares on him, almost expecting Ron to suddenly throw himself out of the bloody car, and Ginny did her best to distract Ron by interrogative him about Hogwarts, mostly questioning him about Harry for some odd reason, but it did not help as Ron really wasn't in the mood to talk at all.

A tapping came at his window, effectively getting Ron to sit back up and he smiled when he saw Bruno at the window. Ron quickly opened the window and allowed Bruno to fly in and perch himself on Ron's shoulder.

"Hullo there, Bruno," Ron spoke, stroking the brown-feathered bird's beak and snowy-white neck. The owl simply hooted and nipped Ron's ear in affection. Ron chuckled and Bruno flew over to the corner of Ron's room to drink his water. I promised to distract myself and have hope in Xavier recovering…

Ron then took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, doing his best to throw his anxious thoughts aside and he decided to rearrange his room and pack away the items from his trunks.

Once Ron stashed away his clothes and uniform, placed his textbooks on his shelf, and rearranged his room, he pulled out Xavier's gift and set the chessboard on the wooden floor. This gift really was something else…

As Ron was about to play against the dummy that would be on the opposing side, his bedroom door swung open, and Ron looked up to see his dad entering the room.

"Ron, I-"

His father stopped talking when his eyes landed on Xavier's present. His father then smiled with an impressed look and closed the door behind him.

"What do you have there, son?" his father asked, walking over to Ron.

"Er… it's a gift from… Xavier… h-he… he brought it for me on my birthday," Ron answered quietly, looking anywhere but his dad.

"Oh, I see," his father responded with a fond tone, and he glanced at Ron's owl. "Well, I only wanted to come here to tell you that Sirius Black and his friend Remus Lupin will be visiting us soon."

"Really?" Ron asked quickly, looking to his father and his father nodded. "Dad, is Harry staying with Sirius Black? You know since Harry is his godson and all."

"I believe not, son," Mr. Weasley replied, his brow furrowed.

"What?" Ron asked in complete confusion. Why the bloody hell would Harry go back to his muggle family? Calm down, Ron, maybe he's staying with Neville…

"Um, don't worry, dad," Ron quickly cleared up and his father shot him a puzzled look, before chuckling.

"Percy has told me that you've passed all your end-of-year exams, Ron. Is that true?" his father asked, and Ron nodded sheepishly. His father beamed and patted Ron's back.

"You've made quite the accomplishments, Ron. Your mother and I are very proud of you, son, don't forget that." his father stated. Ron simply sighed and looked back to his chessboard. A moment of silence fell between them, and Ron's melancholy was enough to take the feeling of awkwardness away.

"Son, Xavier will be all right," his father started slowly, and Ron flinched.

"But what if he won't be?" Ron shot back, starting to feel angry. "What if Xavier doesn't live? He will die because of me… and I will have to live with the fact that I did nothing to save him…"

Ron felt bitter tears forming in his eyes and he clenched his teeth as the tears flowed down his face. Ron was dubbed a 'prodigy' and yet he couldn't even do anything to save his best mate that night… Ron felt as if he were truly useless…

Ron didn't even register his father wrapping his arms around Ron and hugging his son comfortingly. Ron simply began to cry, and he couldn't stop. The tears cascaded uncontrollably and that feeling of tension grew in Ron's chest.

"The Dark Lord… h-he tried to come for me… but Xavier… h-he s-sacrificed himself f-for me…" Ron cried, whilst stuttering and hiccupping mildly. His father tightened his hold on his son, and he cursed the Dark Lord to hell. Not only did that evil bastard tried to hurt his son, but he had hurt a boy that Arthur cared deeply about and viewed as family, Xavier Desmond.

"Shh, shh, it's ok, Ron. Everything will be all right, son. I understand that you blame yourself, but you shouldn't son. The Dark Lord is a vile and ravenous monster who will stop at nothing to get what he wants," his father spoke softly, and Ron couldn't help but notice that his father sounded like he was speaking from experience.

"We shouldn't give in our fears and doubts to that monster. The Healers are doing everything they can to heal Xavier… He will be all right, I promise. You should enjoy your holidays, son. Try not to think too hard about what is going on right now. Your mother and I are proud beyond words of you, Ron." Mr. Weasley informed with a smile, and slowly, Ron smiled back. Dad's right… The Healers will do their best to bring Xavier back, I'm sure of it…

"T-thanks dad," Ron replied as he wiped away his tears. He felt as if a sudden lift of weight occurred from his emotional outburst.

"Anytime, son. Come down for dinner, it'll be ready in five minutes," his father responded with a firm pat on Ron's shoulder, and he left the room.

Tracey Davis' P.O.V:

Davis Manor – Sunday, June 29th, 1992 (4 p.m.)

"Finally!" Tracey exclaimed, and she exhaled from exhaustion. She and her parents had completed quite the walk after taking a portkey which allowed them to arrive to the States. Connecticut is amazing…

"You excited to meet Travis, dear?" her mum, Claudia Davis, asked. Tracey's face lit up immediately at the prospect of meeting her favourite cousin and she nodded vigorously. Her mother chuckled at Tracey's excitement, and Tracey's father, Henry Davis, continued to lead them past the trees.

Once they made their way past the trees, they came upon Uncle Trent's Manor. Tracey gasped in awe; it was so beautiful. The Manor stood proudly with bright blue-tinted windows and green shrubs lined symmetrically to the entrance. The orange streaks of sunlight clashed with the pink clouds, and a cool breeze washed over them. The Manor was surrounded by large black steel gates and Tracey peeked over to view the simmering lake behind the Manor. I love this place!

Tracey's father walked up to the front door and knocked on it three times. After a moment, the door opened, revealing Tracey's favourite aunt and uncle: Aunt Mary and Uncle Trent.

"Henry!" Uncle Trent greeted and he stepped forward to hug his brother firmly. Tracey giggled as she watched her father and her uncle converse like excited children.

"Claudia, dear, how nice to see you again," came the airy, American voice of Aunt Mary, and Tracey turned back to see her mother and her aunt exchange tight hugs and sweet pecks on each other's cheeks. Aunt Mary then turned to Tracey, and she gasped.

"Tracey Davis, is that you?" Aunt Mary asked with a smile that showed off her pearly whites. Tracey blushed shyly and approached her favourite aunt. As Tracey hugged Aunt Mary tightly, she felt as if all her problems were slowly drifting away.

"You've gotten so big, I can't believe my eyes…" Aunt Mary muttered, scanning every inch of Tracey.

"It's so good to see you, Aunt Mary," Tracey replied, smiling brightly at her aunt. Aunt Mary and Tracey's mother chuckled at Tracey.

"Come on in, I've made your favourite," Aunt Mary said happily, and Tracey beamed. As Tracey stepped into the house, the mouth-watering smell of apple pie wafted through Tracey's nose. Oh my god, that smells so good…

"Where is my favourite nephew, brother?" Tracey's dad asked with a grin, and Uncle Trent frowned.

"Yes, where is he?" Uncle Trent mumbled, looking up to the stairs. "We didn't tell him that you guys were coming, you know, to keep it a surprise."

"Perhaps Tracey can go find him, while we settle down," Tracey's mum proposed, and the adults all nodded.

"Go on, love, go find Travis," Aunt Mary encouraged, and Tracey smiled at her once more before heading up the stairs. Uncle Trent began on insisting to take Henry and Claudia's luggage, and Tracey smiled to herself. It feels so good to be here again… Hmm, I wonder where Travis is…

Tracey walked past three doors until she reached a white door with the name 'Travis' engraved on it. Here goes nothing…

Tracey slowly opened the door, and she was met with a large bedroom, with a window that gave a magnificent view into the backyard. There were several posters on the blue-wallpapered wall and a desk occupied the end of the bedroom. There Travis was, no doubt sketching another one of his drawings. A smile graced on Tracey's face as she took note of Travis' wavy, golden locks.

Travis then stopped sketching and slowly turned around. To his absolute bewilderment, his favourite cousin stood in the doorway.

"T-Tracey?" Travis asked slowly, his diamond-blue eyes beginning to dance with joy.

"In the flesh," Tracey responded with a giggle, and the two embraced each other tightly.

"I can't believe you're here!" Travis exclaimed, and Tracey laughed at his dumbfounded expression.

"Your parents decided to keep it a surprise and didn't tell you that we were coming," Tracey explained, and Travis shook his head in annoyance. Aww, he's cute when he looks angry!

"Damn it, I could have been more prepared," Travis mumbled, and he took a long look at Tracey before smiling fully. "I've missed you so much, cousin and I've missed hearing that British accent."

"I've missed you so much too, cousin, and I've missed hearing that American accent of yours," Tracey replied, smiling softly at Travis. "It's been too long…"

"How are your muggle cousins?" Travis asked with a smirk as he cleared his desk.

"Ugh, let's not even begin our conversation with them," Tracey groaned, and Travis sniggered. Tracey then jumped onto Travis' bed and smiled widely as she relaxed.

"It's going to so much fun, Trav!" Tracey exclaimed giddily. "We can stay up telling scary stories, we can draw together, maybe we can go fishing!"

"Yeah, and you can tell me about Hogwarts, and I can tell you about Ilvermorny!" Travis suggested, replicating Tracey's excitement.

Tracey's beautiful smile faltered before she nodded softly. Travis took notice of this and took a seat next to her. Travis put a comforting hand on Tracey's shoulder and squeezed it.

"Are you all right, Trace? Is something on your mind?" Travis asked, and Tracey slowly shook her head.

"No… I'm just… I'm just really happy to see you, that's all…" Tracey replied softly, and there was truth in that. Travis hugged Tracey tightly and Tracey felt at home with her cousin's protective touch.

"Well, you can talk to me about anything, ok? I trust you with my life and I hope you can trust me," Travis promised, and Tracey slowly smiled once more at her cousin. Tracey hugged Travis back and giggled at his embarrassed face.

"Yes, Trav, I trust you with my life too, and thank you," Tracey responded, and she planted a kiss on Travis' cheek.

"Your mum is so good at cooking," Tracey hushed as she savoured the lasting taste of spaghetti Bolognese Aunt Mary cooked up for dinner. Travis sent a smile to Tracey and closed the bedroom door behind him. Tracey had insisted on sharing Travis' room so that they could stay up talking and making each other laugh. Uncle Trent had enlarged Travis' bed so that both Travis and Tracey could sleep in it.

Tracey turned off the light and as she got into the bed with Travis, they both propped up themselves on their pillows and stared in awe at the ceiling. Aunt Mary had bewitched it to imitate the starry night sky and Tracey was reminded of the ceiling back in the Great Hall at Hogwarts.

"So, how long will you, Aunt Claudia, and Uncle Henry stay?" Travis asked, starting off the conversation after a moment of silence between the two.

"I think we'll be staying for two weeks," Tracey answered, frowning slightly to herself. I wish we could stay more…

"Two weeks?! It's going to fly like it's two days!" Travis exclaimed, sharing Tracey's sentiment.

"I know right!" Tracey agreed, nodding fervently. "I wish that we could hang out for at least a year!"

"Woah, calm down there, Trace, that would be too long," Travis said with a smirk, and Tracey feigned hurt.

"I see… you don't want me around for too much anymore," Tracey huffed, and Travis nodded with a grin. Tracey simply gasped and crossed her arms. How dare he! I thought he loved my company!

"I'm kidding cousin, I would hang out with you whenever and wherever," Travis stated truthfully, and Tracey giggled.

"I know, Trav," Tracey replied, smiling at her blue-eyed cousin. "Hey, how's Ilvermorny?"

"Oh, it's great! It's so big and this year has been so fun," Travis responded, and Tracey scooted closer to him.

"Tell me everything," Tracey requested eagerly, and Travis nodded.

"All right well, I was sorted into Thunderbird. Thunderbird basically represents the soul and apparently chooses those who are deemed as adventurers," Travis started, and Tracey listened raptly. That's wicked…

"You made any friends?" Tracey asked, though she already knew the answer. How could anyone skip the offer to befriend someone like Travis anyway?

"Of course, cousin," Travis replied with his usual smirk, and Tracey giggled. "I met this funny dude called Deandre Montgomery. He's a Pureblood as well and he is so competitive when it comes to sports."

Travis then sighed sadly and stared up at the ceiling. What happened?

"Hey, what's wrong, Trav?" Tracey asked softly, stroking her cousin's golden hair.

"Nothing really, Trace…" Travis responded quietly. "It's just… Deandre was expelled-"

"What?" Tracey cut in, looking in disbelief. Expelled in the first year as well? Merlin, what happened?

"Yeah, fucking hell, I know right," Travis said, shaking his head. "He and two of his friends were expelled for tampering with something hidden in the school or something… I think the other two were named Valerie Robinson and Demelza Armstrong…"

Tracey just stared at her cousin. His story seemed to bring a sense of similarity to Tracey. There was a powerful artifact that was hidden back at Hogwarts as well. Hmm, that's weird…

"I think Deandre told me that he and his two friends will be relocating to Hogwarts," Travis informed, and Tracey snapped out from her thoughts.

"Really?" Tracey questioned, and Travis nodded. "Hmm, three American students will be joining Hogwarts. That ought to be fun."

"Well, I've been dying to ask this question," Travis started, and he faced Tracey. "You've already told me that Harry Potter is in your year… Is it true that Xavier Desmond is attending Hogwarts as well?"

Tracey let out a laugh. She almost forgot how famous Xavier really was sometimes…

"Yes, he is," Tracey answered honestly, and Travis' eyes widened in awe. "He's one of my best friends."

"No way!" Travis exclaimed with a laugh. "Do you even know how many people from Ilvermorny want to meet him!? What's he like? I can't believe you're friends with him!"

"He's… he's unique, that's for sure," Tracey started, unknowingly smiling. "He seems very cold and intimidating, but once you get to know him, he's really interesting. He and one of my other friends, Ronald Weasley, are best friends and are prodigies because they can perform magic better than any first-year, and possibly second-years."

"That's fucking rad!" Travis replied, and he then cleared his voice. "You said that they are prodigies?"

"Oh, yes," Tracey responded. "They earned a hundred House points in a single day, bested two Trolls, caught a Death-Eater in an Animagus form-"

"What in the name of Wampus balls?!" Travis exclaimed, not caring how shocked or loud he sounded. Tracey simply shrugged with a proud smile. They really are incredible…

"I've definitely got to meet them one day…" Travis muttered absent-mindedly, still transfixed in wonder. Tracey smiled sadly and faced the night sky ceiling. Meet Ron for sure… but Xavier… maybe you won't be able to meet him, Trav…

"Trace, what's wrong?" Travis asked, and Tracey did her hardest to push those thoughts away.

"N-nothing, Trav-"

"I won't take that for an answer, Trace. All day you've been doing this sorta thing. Please, talk to me, I promise to help you in whatever way I can," Travis interjected firmly, and Tracey sighed deeply. Maybe I should tell him…

"It's Xavier, Trav. He's in trouble…" Tracey started, and she felt her eyes brimming up. "H-he might die…"

As soon as those words escaped Tracey's mouth, a sob followed after it. There it was… the pain that Tracey had been bottling up this whole time was ready to be discharged.

Tracey had been living in a state of disbelief for the past week. It wasn't as if Tracey felt skeptical of it all… she just couldn't believe that one of her best friends was currently in a coma. Unlike Daphne and Pansy, who cried all the time after they learned of Xavier's comatose position, Tracey didn't cry. No, she lived in a state of utter disbelief, all the while trying to keep her friends together. Not once had she even sobbed. But as the days continued and news of Xavier's impending death arrived, Tracey felt her incredulous posture start to break and she found herself facing anxious thoughts and fearful beliefs. What if Xavier really died? What would it mean for the group? Would the boys break away? Would Ron fall into depression? How would Tracey and the girls cope?

"It's ok, Trace, I'm here…" Travis' words faded into the background as his arm wrapped around Tracey's waist.

"Xavier's in a coma right now… I don't know if he's going to die, Trav… I don't know what will happen if he does…" Tracey cried, burying her head into Travis' neck.

"We mustn't lose faith, cousin. Isn't that what you taught me? You are the most positive person I fucking know on this planet! Your friend's in a coma, isn't he? There's still time and chance, Trace. Don't give up now," Travis whispered to her, and he tightened his hold gently.

"You really think so?" Tracey asked as she sniffed, looking up to meet her cousin's eyes.

"I believe so, Trace," Travis nodded, and Tracey felt her breathing calm slowly.

"You're right, Trav… there's still some chance, right?" Tracey said softly, and Travis nodded with a smile.

"Everything's going to be ok…" Travis promised, and Tracey let out a wet chuckle. Come on, Tracey, get a hold of yourself…

"I'm sorry for crying like this," Tracey apologised sheepishly, blushing brightly. Travis simply laughed and planted a kiss on Tracey's forehead.

"Don't be sorry, Trace. You've been feeling anxious, and you let your feelings out and that's ok," Travis replied empathically, and Tracey simply blinked at him.

"When did you become so understanding?" Tracey asked, slowly grinning at her favourite cousin.

"Since the day you wanted to see Theodore Nott naked," Travis teased audaciously, and Tracey felt her face flush.

"That's not even remotely true or funny!" Tracey hissed, her face burning in embarrassment and Travis laughed his head off.

"No, that was straight facts. What's funny was your reaction," Travis shot back, and Tracey huffed.

"Oh, come on, cousin, that was funny," Travis pointed out, and Tracey's lips quirked up before she smothered them back to a frown. I can't give him the satisfaction!

"I saw that smile," Travis commented, and Tracey faced her cousin, now fully smiling at him.

"Thank you, Trav for you know… comforting me… and making me laugh…" Tracey said softly, and Travis winked at her.

"Anytime, cousin," Travis responded firmly. "Now, tell me about dear Theodore Nott-"

Tracey growled as she lunged at a laughing Travis, no doubt going to tickle him with no mercy. Unfortunately, Travis got the upper hand and ended up tickling Tracey.

Xavier Desmond's P.O.V:

Dream Wool's Orphanage

A familiar flash of blinding light awakened Xavier and he once again found himself standing on top of the hill that overlooked the vast property of Wool's Orphanage, which was only surrounded by an endless ocean of oblivion. Is The Grim going to speak to me again?

Xavier turned around, but to his utter surprise, it was not The Grim. Instead, it was his own two deceased parents, Caesar and Athena Demond. Xavier held his breath as he slowly approached the smiling couple, and they walked closer to him too. His tall father wore all-black robes and had his hair styled into a high-top. His mother wore violet robes with a hint of green and she had her hair styled in long braids.

"Mother… father…" Xavier whispered, and a cool sensation erupted in his body when his mother laid her hand on Xavier's cheek.

"Darling, you have been so brave… so strong… so fearless…" his mother replied, and Xavier immediately noted her soft, soothing, and adoring voice.

"We might be dead, my son…" his father spoke with his deep, smooth voice, placing a hand on Xavier's shoulder. "But we forever live within you…"

"H-how is this possible?" Xavier questioned slowly, almost expecting a response from The Grim. His parent smiled sadly at him.

"We're both terribly sorry that you never lived with our care, love," his mother spoke, and for the first time in what felt like ever, Xavier could feel the motion of a tear starting to well up in his eyes. I haven't cried before… so don't cry now!

"Tell me how you died… please…" Xavier requested, but his parents sadly shook their heads.

"The truth about our death is another one of your missions, my brave son… it is your choices that will determine if you ever find out or leave it be," his father replied solemnly.

"At least tell me where our family Manor is located, please!" Xavier begged, clutching onto his parent's robes. Please… just tell me…

"As your father stated before my son, you must venture on your own and unravel the answers to your questions…" his mother responded softly, and Xavier sighed heavily.

"We have watched over you…" his father spoke up, garnering Xavier's attention. "And I couldn't have been prouder to call you my son… use our fortune well… take care of those heirlooms… and live your life to complete your mission… that is all that matters… The Dark Lord cannot win my son. He will cause an upbringing of mass slaughter and destruction across the continents of this planet. You must do everything in your power to stop this event."

"I… I understand, father. Even if he does come back, I will have my vengeance and I will protect those who will need it," Xavier said after a moment of hesitation, and he bowed deeply in respect to his parents.

"There is no need for that my son," his mother pointed out and she pulled Xavier into a motherly hug. Xavier froze; all his life, he had yearned to know the feeling of his own mother's touch, and now… he finally understood it.

"I love you both, mother and father…" Xavier said, and his mother released him. "And if you both died in vain… then I shall teach the world that you didn't…"

"That's my boy," his father spoke, patting his son's shoulder. "Now, it's time to go…"

"I understand. I will make you both proud and honour your legacy, I promise…" Xavier stated, and his parents smiled once more.

"You already have, Xavier…" they both said, and as their words faded into Xavier's ears, they vanished out of sight. I hope I can you both again… one day…

"Warrior, Our healing process has been completed… it is time to wake up and continue your life for the mission…" came the voice of The Grim which rang throughout the imaginary place. It's time to return…

A blinding flash of light appeared once more, and Xavier was consumed by darkness.

Pansy Parkinson's P.O.V:

Parkinson Manor – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (8 a.m.)

"Oh, come on, Mills! Let me give you a new hairstyle," Pansy urged, but Millie rejected her offer with a sorry look.

"I'm sorry, Pans, but I'm not really interested in getting a new hairstyle or anything," Millie replied, going back to her book. Pansy simply frowned.

"Mills, you'll get all the boys, trust me!" Pansy added in, but Millie shook her head.

"I'm not interested in getting boys," Mille said firmly.

"Girls?" Pansy asked after a few seconds. Millie simply shot her a look of disbelief before chuckling and shaking her head.

"You just won't give up, will you?" Mille asked, and Pansy smiled stubbornly.

Having Millie around definitely eased the stress off of Pansy. Though she did cry herself to sleep most nights, having someone to talk to took her mind off Xavier's current state. Today was especially special as it was Pansy's birthday and she looked forward to reviewing what gifts her friends had decided to buy for her.

"Ooh, who do you think will be our Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor?" Pansy questioned.

"I'm not sure, but I hope that they will good," Millie commented.

"Hmm, I just hope that they're hot," Pansy said, and Millie pinched the bridge of her nose. Pansy merely giggled at Millie's expression.

A tapping sound at her window caught both of their attention, and Pansy opened her window to let a beautiful, nocturnal, black owl in. The owl then dropped a letter and a small box into Pansy's hands.

"Who's owl is that?" Millie asked, watching the owl fly off into the distance.

"I'm not sure, Mills," Pansy replied, and she took the letter enclosed in the envelope and read it out loud.

Hey Pansy,

Yes, it's me. Xavier. I have recovered over the last week or so and I feel pretty much functional.

I would like to apologise to you and our friends. I presume that my comatose probably caused incessant grief among you all and for that, I am terribly sorry. I assure you that I feel fine.

As for the small box, open it. Hope you enjoy the gift, birthday girl.

Xavier.

Without a word, Pansy and Millie both looked at each other. After a moment, they quickly hugged each other and jumped up in joy. HE'S NOT DEAD, THANK MERLIN!

"Xavier is well!" Millie exclaimed, and Pansy felt so joyous that she could honestly kiss a House-Elf.

"Go on, open Xavier's present," Millie suggested, and Pansy giggled giddily to herself, before opening the small box. She gasped in awe as her eyes landed on two beautiful earrings. Pansy knew quite a lot about the materials and stones that were used in procuring jewellery and right now, she could tell that the ruby-coloured stones were chrome pyrope. They shone brightly and Pansy blushed. What a beautiful gift…

"Those will definitely suit you," Millie pointed out.

"You think so?" Pansy asked, and Mille nodded. Pansy quickly ran over to her mirror and slid Xavier's earrings in, and she smiled widely. They really do fit me…

"I can't believe it," Millie spoke up, and Pansy faced her. "Everyone thought he was going to die, but he didn't."

"He's alive and he will still be with us," Pansy agreed with a smile. She decided to promise to herself that no matter what, she would always be there for her best friends because no matter how the future is to come, Pansy would never regret meeting and befriending Millie, Daphne, Tracey, Blaise, Theo, Ron, and Xavier.

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (8:20 a.m.)

Ron slipped on a shirt and began to scribble a letter to Pansy. He had bought her a book on Famous Wizarding Hairstyles and once he attached the letter and gift to Bruno, the owl nipped his ear in affection and set off for Parkinson Manor.

Ron smiled as he watched his owl fly off into the distance and he decided to head downstairs. All though he had eaten his breakfast after his run, he could still smell the scrumptious bacon from the kitchen and yearned for some more.

The last week had been exceptionally all right in Ron's opinion. He woke up every day to go out for runs and he would return to eat mouth-watering breakfast prepared by his mother. Fred and George took Ron's mind off by playing pranks on him and Percy, something that Ron actually welcomed. Percy and Ron would study up on different potions and Ron would listen to Percy drone on about work that older students were required to learn. Ron and his father would play chess together and Ginny always pulled her favourite brother to her room to play with her. If only things had been like this when Ron was younger...

Ron continued to send letters to his friends, mainly Daphne as Theo and Blaise were residing at her place. Tracey informed Ron of her fun time in the States, while Pansy kept her company with Millie. I need to send a letter to Neville, Harry, or Hermione soon…

As Ron entered the kitchen, a delighted smile graced his lips as he found Pandora chatting away with his mother.

"Pandora!" Ron exclaimed, and Pandora turned to smile elegantly at Ron.

"Ah, Ron, how are you, love?" Pandora asked, hugging Ron tightly to her bossom. Ron blushed instantly, and he laughed nervously.

"Er, I'm doing good, I guess…" Ron trailed off, feeling slightly awkward. Pandora simply giggled at Ron and gestured to him to sit next to her. "Where's Luna?"

"She's playing with Ginny, I presume," Pandora answered.

"Ronnie, did you come downstairs to ask for more bacon?" Ron's mother asked with a knowing smirk. Ron nodded sheepishly and his mother chuckled before serving some crispy bacon on a plate to him. Simply marvellous…

Ron devoured the bacon in mere seconds, and he missed Pandora and his mother's looks of utter disbelief.

"Ronald, are you going to miss an appointment?" Pandora asked, and Ron stared back in confusion. What appointment?

"She's wondering why you ate so fast, Ronnie," his mother explained, and Ron simply rolled his eyes.

"Can I have some more, mum?" Ron asked, but his mother shook her head.

"Sorry, Ron, but we've got guests, love," his mother replied, and Ron cocked an eyebrow.

"Guests? Who-"

The front door opened at that precise moment, and Ron's father and Xeno walked in, accompanying two other men.

"Smells amazing in here," Xeno complimented, and he shot a smile at Ron. "Hey, Ron."

"Hey, Xeno," Ron replied with a smile, though his eyes were fixated on the two other men.

"Ah, so this is Ron," one of the men said, and Ron's father nodded.

"Ron," his father said. "This is Sirius Black and Remus Lupin." Of course, how the hell did I not recognise Sirius?"

In fairness to Ron, Sirius Black was no longer the skeletal, gaunt man he once was. Sirius had a confident look on his clean-shaven face, and he had long, black hair that almost reached his shoulders. Sirius wore brown robes and he had two golden rings on his left hand.

Standing next to him was his friend that Ron had heard about, Remus Lupin. Remus was taller than Sirius and though he had a respectful smile on his pale face, he looked exhausted for some reason. Remus had light brown hair, possessed premature lines, and had faint, yet noticeable scars cutting across his face. Damn, I wonder how he got those…

"It's an absolute Honour to meet the Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black," Ron greeted, stepping forward, and bowing to a bewildered Sirius Black. Ron held out his hand and Sirius shook it not before laughing.

"A Slytherin through and through indeed!" Sirius exclaimed, patting Ron on the shoulder and Ron found himself liking Sirius' nature.

"How are you, Lord Black?" Ron asked, missing the bizarre and shell-shocked looks sent from his parents, Pandora, and Xeno.

"I'm doing fine, thanks to you, and please, call me Sirius. Lord Black reminds me of my father," Sirius responded, his tone carrying slight bitterness. Maybe he and his father didn't get along…

"Fair enough, Sirius," Ron said politely, and he then faced Remus Lupin. "It's nice to meet you too, Mr. Lupin."

"Please, Remus is fine, Ron," Remus assured, and Ron nodded. The two exchanged a firm handshake.

"I see that you've put your owl to good use," Sirius said with a smirk, and Ron nodded firmly.

"Yes, Sirius, thank you for giving me the owl," Ron replied wholeheartedly, and Sirius ruffled his hair.

"I should be thanking you, Ron," Sirius reminded with a firm expression. "You and your friend, Xavier Desmond, both saved my life, saved my godson and his friend's lives, and Merlin knows how much more."

"It is quite all right, Sirius," Ron reassured, blushing slightly, and rubbing his neck. "It was the right thing to do."

Sirius and Remus both ruffled Ron's hair, while his parents, Xeno, and Pandora beamed positively at Ron. It was a weird feeling for Ron… To be the centre of attention was never a thing Ron had expected.

"Speaking of my other saviour, Xavier Desmond," Sirius started, looking over to Ron's dad. "I will pay for all medical bills, Arthur."

"Sirius, we've got it covered-"

"No arguments, Arthur," Sirius interjected, shooting a meaningful look at Ron's parents. "Caesar's son saved my life… it's the least I can do."

Ron's attention turned to an owl flying towards the open windows of the kitchen. Is that… is that Apolo?

Ron was right. Xavier's dark-feathered owl flew through the window and dropped a letter in Ron's hand before landing on Sirius' shoulder.

Ron tore open the letter as his heart thumped in his chest, and he began to read the letter.

Hey mate,

In truth, I actually woke last week, but I needed to regain some of my strength by doing some cardio exercises and whatnot because the Healers were scared that I might suddenly die or something…

I'm sorry if I caused grief and possibly even depression for you and our friends. All that matters is that I'm alive and I feel fine, and those fears should not matter anymore.

If you're going to visit me, try not to bring your whole family or the others as the Healers will be on edge. They think that a large crowd might make me feel claustrophobic or overwhelming for me or something…

I've already sent a letter to Pansy as I intended on sending her a gift for her birthday, so you needn't tell her, though Daphne, Theo, Blaise, Tracey, Mille, and our Gryffindor friends don't know yet.

Oh, and more thing, I would never request this, but I beg you to bring some of your mother's food. This hospital food is enough to make go back into a coma!

Sincerely, Xavier

Ron let out a laugh and just like that, the extant tension that had held onto Ron this whole time disappeared. Xavier's alive… he's well…

"What is it, son?" Ron's dad asked, and Ron faced all the adults in the room.

"It's Xavier… he has awakened," Ron answered, grinning from ear to ear. I must send a letter to Daphne and Neville!

Daphne Greengrass' P.O.V:

Greengrass Manor – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:15 a.m.)

Daphne stared at her reflection in the mirror, while combing her beautiful, blonde hair. Theo and Blaise sat on her bed, conversing with each other, and Daphne couldn't help but look back over the last week.

Since the first day of the holidays, Daphne found it quite hard to even get out of bed. It was the same nightmare the occurred once sleep took her in. A nightmare where, one by one, each of her closest friends died, starting with Xavier.

On the second night, Daphne woke up screaming, and her mother quickly came to her aid. Whilst being consoled by her mother, Daphne had let slip of how Xavier ended up in his stupor, and though her mother had stayed by her side that night, whispering words of comfort, Daphne could still plainly remember her mother's own frightened look. Daphne's father had taken the news of the Dark Lord's possession extremely seriously, and he spent the day upgrading security around the immense Manor. Astoria was kept out of this, much to Daphne's agreement. Astoria did not deserve to hear such alarming news, though one day she would.

Once Theo and Blaise came over, Daphne quickly attached herself to them, and she found that decision to not only help her but help them too. The two boys had also been grieving on their own, and the three felt closer than ever now.

Theo adapted to his humorous attitude, mainly taking the mickey out of Blaise, whilst making Daphne giggle uncontrollably. Blaise would merely roll his eyes and ignore Theo.

Daphne was also happy to know that Ron was doing all right, Tracey was having a blast in the States with her family, and that Pansy and Millie were hanging out at Parkinson Manor, enjoying each other's company.

"Daphne, did you send your gift to Pansy?" Theo asked, pulling Daphne out of her thoughts.

Daphne faced Theo and Blaise and nodded, joining them on her bed. Suddenly, her closet burst open, and Daphne shrieked, while Theo and Blaise fell off the bed.

"HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Astoria laughed, clutching her stomach.

"ASTORIA GREENGRASS!" Daphne screamed, glaring murder at her little sister who was now crying tears of joy. "You scared us!"

"That was so good!" Astoria wheezed, and Daphne balled her fists.

"That wasn't even funny!" Daphne huffed, and she turned back to find Theo and Blaise helping each other up, both adorned with shaken expressions.

"I'm so sorry, guys," Daphne apologised, shooting a sympathetic look at her two friends.

"It's all right," Blaise reassured, though he frowned heavily at Astoria. Daphne replicated his frown and put her hands on her hips.

"Astoria, leave right now, or I will tell mother," Daphne scolded, and Astoria pouted.

"Aww, why can't I stay and hang out with you guys?" Astoria asked, putting on her 'puppy eyes'.

"I'm sorry, but Theo, Blaise, and I are discussing some things that don't concern you, little sister," Daphne answered with a sigh. "Now, run along."

"Whatever, you guys are boring anyway," Astoria huffed, and she stormed out of Daphne's room, not before slamming the door behind her. Merlin, Mother must get Tori under control…

"Well, that was something," Theo spoke, breaking the silence.

"Daph, I think an owl is coming for you," Blaise pointed out, and Daphne looked over to her window. I don't recognise that owl…

"That's Xavier's owl, Apolo," Theo noted, and both Daphne and Blaise immediately looked at Theo. Theo held a genuine, serious expression and Daphne's heart rate begin to beat faster. If that is Xavier's owl, then that means…

Daphne swiftly opened the window and allowed for the black owl to fly in. Apolo carried two letters and dropped one into Daphne's hands before departing out back into the sky. The three looked at each other before huddling together to read the letter.

Hello, Daphne (and to Theo and Blaise if they're reading this),

I'm using Xavier's owl because Bruno has already gone off to give Pansy my present. Good news! Xavier has awoken! He sent me a letter today and told me that he was doing all right and that he had been regaining some strength to write to me.

He has already sent a letter to Pansy, so she and Millie probably know of his state right now. I reckon you should send a letter to Tracey.

I'm going to go to St. Mungo's to visit him and speaking of, he told me that all of you shouldn't come at once because it will put the Healers on edge, which is just bloody nonsense, but yeah. Once I visit him, I'll send you another letter, all right?

Ron.

Daphne slowly lowered the letter, shooting an incredulous look at it. After a moment or two, she gazed over to Theo and Blaise, who both stared back with shell-shocked expressions. Then, as if time had unfrozen them, the three Slytherins embraced each other tightly.

"He's alive!" Theo cheered, and Daphne let out a jubilant laugh, while Blaise shared their sentiment. Xavier's alive… he's alive…

Daphne clutched her chest, while Theo and Blaise shook hands firmly. Not once had Daphne wanted to yell in happiness and now, that was all she wanted to do. All her feelings of anxiety and trembling fears drifted away, while her prayers had been answered.

Daphne quickly ran over to her desk and pulled out a new piece of parchment and quill, starting to write a letter.

"Writing to Tracey, I presume?" Theo spoke up from behind her, and Daphne nodded as an overjoyed smile formed on her face.

"Thank Merlin," Blaise sighed in relief, and for the first time in what seemed like ever, Daphne found Blaise smiling widely and that made Daphne even more thrilled. Xavier's coming home…

Neville Longbottom's P.O.V:

Longbottom Manor – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:25 a.m.)

Neville examined his new flexible thirteen-inch, cherry, and unicorn hair wand once more before neatly placing it on his desk. A proud Augusta Longbottom had stayed true to her word and took Neville out with her to visit Ollivander's. Neville couldn't remember a time where he had seen his Gran so proud of him. Not even the time when he first produced Accidental Magic, confirming that he was indeed a wizard through and through.

And though Neville couldn't help but feel pleased with himself from his Gran's praise, his current problems laid on his mind 24/7. Was Xavier really going to die? Where was the Dark Lord? Did the Dark Lord think about possessing Neville or Hermione when he flew past them? Why was Harry ignoring his letters? Why did Dumbledore urge Harry to go back to his muggle family in the first place? None of it made sense and all of it was too much on his plate.

Neville was happy to know that Hermione was spending a good time with her parents in France, and the two had exchanged a few letters here and there. Much to Neville's disappointment, Hermione too was getting ignored by Harry. Was the boy-who-lived mad with them? Was he angry with himself?

Neville had played the role of keeping the Golden Trio together, but he failed miserably as he himself couldn't stop thinking about Xavier. Neville knew that he would never forget it. The yells of pure agony coming from Xavier… Neville had never thought he would hear Xavier scream; the dark-skinned boy was intimidating and fearless… and yet he did, showing Neville that true pain was caused. Neville would never forget how Xavier looked once he collapsed to the floor, while Ron ran off to get help… Those vivid memories haunted Neville's dreams and he was just starting to get over the Troll incident back on Halloween…

Neville had ended up spilling the whole story to his Gran who had listened to her grandson intently. Once he recalled his tale, his Gran sat back, deep in thought. His Gran decided to upgrade the Manor's security and protective enchantments, meaning that she believed every word of Neville's story. She then praised Neville and believed that he was finally starting to live up to the family name.

Just thinking about the Dark Lord was enough to make Neville's skin crawl. How could he have been alive? When Xavier and Ron had told Neville, Harry, and Hermione about their encounter with the Dark Lord in the Forbidden Forest, Neville dearly wished that they were joking or imagining it. But as usual, they were right. And all this time, the Dark Lord had been living as an attachment to Professor Quirrell's head. And Quirrell… Neville's first flying lesson would have ended up him being dead because of Quirrell…

"Call him Voldemort, my brave boy. Fearing his name would give him the satisfaction, something that we mustn't do…" the words from Gran rang throughout his mind.

Neville had opted to throw a birthday party for him and Harry as they were only born one day apart, but as Harry never responded to any of his letters, Neville pondered if he should continue with the decision to throw a party. In the end, Gran persuaded him to go through with the decision, and Neville believed that it would help him forget about the current problems.

A tapping came at Neville's window and the slightly chubby boy opened his window with a confused look as a black owl dropped a letter in his hands and flew off. Maybe this is from Harry…

Dear Nev,

Hey mate, I know that I haven't sent a letter to you at all and I'm sorry about that, I've been a bit busy lately.

Guess what? Xavier has woken up from his coma! He's alive and well, mate, and I'm going to visit him. Once I do, I'll make sure to send you a letter.

Ron.

P.S. Sirius Black came to visit me today and since Harry wasn't with him, is he staying with you?

Neville lowered the letter and stared at the floor with wide eyes. He then pumped his fist in the air and had the urge to yell out in happiness. He's alive, thank Merlin, he's alive…

Neville couldn't explain his feelings right now. A huge part of his worries now disintegrated into nothingness. Xavier had survived… Neville would get to see his mate again… Maybe Xavier might be able to make it to his party…

Neville laughed and grabbed two pieces of parchment. I've got to tell Hermione and Harry! Maybe this good news might make Harry respond!

Sirius Black's P.O.V:

St. Mungo's – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:30 a.m.)

Sirius smirked to himself as he, Remus, Arthur, and Ron stepped through the window of 'Purge and Dowse, Ltd' store to find themselves in the reception room of the ground floor of St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries.

It was still a bizarre and foreign feeling for Sirius to be roaming about, taking in the nature of others and different places. Sitting in the same cell for twelve years knowing that you were innocent did something to a person. And Sirius could only thank Ron Weasley and Xavier Desmond. Sirius shot a smile at the youngest redhead son of Arthur's. The boy was an interesting person, that was for sure, and he made Sirius laugh quite a bit. In all honesty, Ron reminded Sirius a bit of himself.

"Welcome to St. Mungo's, please state each of your names and the reason you have arrived here," the receptionist lady in her twenties greeted. Sirius shot her a wink, something that made her blush.

"Hello there, my name is Arthur Weasley. This is my son, Ron Weasley, and the two gentlemen beside me are Sirius Black and Remus Lupin," Arthur answered truthfully, and the desk lady nodded, while her eyes flicked over to Sirius. "We've come here to see one of the patients. His name is Xavier Desmond."

"Ah, of course," the desk lady responded, writing down their details on a sheet. "Mr. Desmond is on the fourth floor."

"Thank you," Arthur said, and he led the way up to the fourth floor.

"You excited to meet your friend, Ron?" Remus asked, and Ron nodded vigorously. Sirius and Remus exchanged amused looks and ruffled the boy's hair.

"I'll admit, Remus, even I'm excited to meet him," Sirius stated, and Remus cocked an eyebrow in confusion.

"Is that so?" Remus asked, and Sirius gaped at him.

"Have you forgotten who he is? He is Xavier DESMOND. The SON of Caesar Desmond," Sirius reminded, and Remus chuckled.

"Of course, Sirius, how could one forget Caesar and Athena? They both were incredible, and they stood out," Remus said, and Sirius nodded in agreement. If I could only talk to them again…

Sirius sighed but decided to push those regretful thoughts away. Life was one tough bastard… Sirius truly knew the destruction and pain that war could and would bring, but even then, he felt profound sorrow for his fallen loved ones.

"I believe this is the room," Arthur said, bring Sirius' attention back. Sirius and Remus both placed their hands on Ron's shoulder and as Arthur opened the door, they were met with a white room. A flower pot was stationed on a small stool in the corner of the room and there was a bed with white sheets in the centre of the room. A Healer seemed to be discussing something with a dark-skinned boy and the both of them instantaneously looked in the direction of Sirius, Remus, Ron, and Arthur.

"Xav… Xavier," Ron stammered, and the dark-skinned boy slowly smiled at Ron.

"Hey mate," Xavier said, and Ron ran up to the boy and pulled him to a hug. The two boys laughed, while the Healer and Arthur watched blissfully. Sirius and Remus however stared with ajar jaws.

"Great Godric, he looks so much like him, Remus," Sirius whispered, and Remus slowly nodded. Sirius was sure that he was staring at a miniature Caesar Desmond and that almost made Sirius burst out laughing. The only few differences were that the boy rocked a different hairstyle, and his whole body was extremely gaunt, no doubt from the effects of being in a coma.

"Xavier, I would like for you to meet Sirius Black and Remus Lupin," Arthur said, pointing over to the two Marauders. Xavier held a look of realisation before nodding his head respectfully.

"It is an honour to meet the-"

"Oh, really, you too?" Sirius cut in, laughing at Xavier. Sirius then approached the boy and hugged him. Once he released him, he barked a laugh at Xavier's bewildered expression.

"And I believe this is where I shake your hand," Remus stepped in, smiling at Xavier. The two exchanged handshakes and Xavier regained his composure.

"Let me guess, you want me to call you Remus," Xavier said, and Remus smiled more fully at him.

"If you don't mind," Remus replied, patting Xavier's shoulder. Sirius studied Xavier a bit closer, and he exhaled in awe.

"You really do look like your father, Xavier," Sirius praised, and Xavier smiled.

"Thank you, Lord Black," Xavier responded, and Sirius waved a hand.

"No problem, kiddo, and please, call me Sirius," Sirius suggested, and Xavier nodded.

"I reckon we ought to give Ron and Xavier some time to catch up," Remus advised. Both Arthur and Sirius nodded, and Ron shot them all a look of appreciation.

"Talk to you boys later," Sirius said with a smirk, and he, Remus, and Arthur left the room. Once they and the Healer, exited the ward, Sirius turned to his two mates and grinned widely.

"You can't tell me that he isn't Caesar," Sirius started, and both Remus and Arthur chuckled.

"I must say, I thought the same when I first met Xavier," Arthur admitted.

"When was that?" Remus questioned.

"Right after the Halloween incident at Hogwarts," Arthur said gravely. Sirius and Remus shuddered. "You see, Ronnie had come to aid Harry, Neville, and Hermione, and he had taken down one of the Trolls. Another one came, but according to Ron, he slipped and hit his head on the wall-"

"Jesus Christ!" Sirius exclaimed, not caring how loud he was.

"Indeed," Remus said, his brow furrowed.

"Luckily, Xavier had just arrived in time and he used wandless magic to knock out the troll with its club," Arthur informed. Sirius shot him a look of disbelief, while Remus nodded with an impressed expression.

"Wandless magic at his age? Unbelievable," Sirius muttered, though Remus and Arthur heard him.

"A prodigy like Caesar, though even Caesar hadn't delved into the arts of wandless magic at such young age," Remus noted, and Sirius agreed wholeheartedly.

"That boy not only saved me, but saved Harry's life too, Remus," Sirius said, looking firmly at his best friend. "We owe him and Ron everything."

"Hey, how is Harry by the way?" Arthur suddenly asked. "Any response?"

"No, Arthur, I'm starting to feel like something is going on," Sirius answered, stroking his chin. Petunia wouldn't hurt him… would she?

"We'll have to trust Albus on this, Sirius," Remus reassured, though even he had a small feeling at the bottom of his stomach that told him otherwise. "The Headmaster would never allow nor any other child to get hurt."

"I guess you're right," Sirius agreed hesitantly, and coincidentally to his surprise, his eyes caught the headmaster himself approaching them. "Speak of the Devil, and he shall appear."

The trio turned to find Albus Dumbledore walking over to them, a peaceful expression planted on his face.

"Morning, Headmaster," Arthur spoke up, and the old man smiled joyfully.

"And a good day to you too, Arthur," Albus replied politely.

"What are you doing here, sir?" Remus asked.

"Oh, I was hoping to visit Mr. Desmond," Albus answered. "There are few things I must discuss with him."

"Well, Ron is talking with him right now, so-"

"I'll give them their time, I assure you," Albus said, nodding to Arthur.

"While you're are here with us, headmaster, may I ask you something?" Sirius questioned, and Albus faced him. "Why haven't you granted me custody for my grandson?"

Remus pinched the bridge of his nose, Arthur looked awkward, and Albus sighed sadly.

"I know that this must be frustrating for you, my boy," Albus started. "But there is a very good reason why Harry must stay with his family."

"Family?" Sirius scoffed. "I bet that they don't even look at him. Surely you know how much Petunia and Vernon despise us wizards, witches, and magic."

"That is not the point, my boy," Albus reasoned. "Harry must live with Petunia as she is a blood relative to him."

"Yes, but he is MY godson, Albus," Sirius pointed out. "Neither James nor Lily specifically stated that their son, Harry, would get handed over to Lily's sister in case anything ever happened."

Albus opened his mouth but closed it. Sirius took that opportunity to continue his reasoning.

"James wanted me, as well as Remus, to take care of his son if anything were to happen to him. You can't just take that away from us, Albus," Sirius argued, and Albus stared sadly at his ex-student.

"Please, my boy, I assure you, Harry is in safe hands. If anything is to harm him in any way, I will hand him over to you and Remus immediately," Albus promised, and Remus nodded firmly.

"And if so, we'll take good care of him, Albus. For James," Remus supported. Sirius looked between the two before sighing and regaining his composure.

"I'll go find the receptionist to pay the medical bills for Xavier," Sirius stated gruffly, and he turned around and walked off. I'm going to go to their home and see how Harry is doing… either way, I will get my godson and not even Albus Dumbledore will stop me!

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

St. Mungo's – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:35 a.m.)

"Your mother's cooking really is unbelievable," Xavier praised in awe, savouring every inch of the food Mrs. Weasley had made. Ron smiled and nodded.

For the past few minutes, Ron recounted Xavier with every detail of what happened after Xavier collapsed to the floor from almost getting possessed by the Dark Lord. Xavier had eaten and listened intently.

"You should have seen her," Ron smirked. "She jumped into action straight away once I told her that you wanted some of her food. Either way, I'm glad you asked for food, mate. You look like a bloody skeleton!"

Xavier chuckled and shared a buttered scroll with Ron. "How're your siblings?"

"Oh, they're doing great, especially now that you're awake," Ron replied happily. "Fred and George kept chanting your name, Ginny and Luna were dancing, and even Percy couldn't stop smiling in relief. If mum weren't so happy from the news of your awakening, she would have lost her shit at all the noise."

"Well, I'm glad that you lot are feeling all right now," Xavier said, and he shot Ron a sympathetic look. "I'm sorry that all of you felt that in the first place-"

"Nah, mate, don't be sorry. I was mostly ashamed of myself," Ron admitted, looking away. "You jumped in front of me, and I couldn't do anything to save you…"

"I jumped in front of you because I swore to lay my life down for you and our Gryffindor friends," Xavier said reassuringly. "I know that you would have done the same."

"And look at where that got you, mate," Ron pointed out, frowning. "You sacrificed your own life just to get possessed and potentially killed by the Dark Lord! You didn't deserve such misery!"

"The Dark Lord is a fucking monster who only serves himself, Ron," Xavier reminded coldly, and he shook Ron's hand tightly. Ron did his best to not tear up and he gripped Xavier's hand back tightly. Awkwardness be damned!

"No matter who he would go for, it would end up with the same result for his victim: pain and suffering," Xavier provided, looking firmly at Ron's face. "We've both encountered him, and now, from what you've told me, our Slytherin friends, the Golden Trio, Dumbledore, Snape, your family and possibly the other professors know about the Dark Lord's ordeal. He won't return; he already has, mate!"

"And what do you suggest we do, huh?" Ron questioned, clenching his teeth at the infuriating thoughts of the Dark Lord. Cunt…

"I know for a fact that you'll do whatever it takes to protect your family and friends," Xavier started. "And I will do anything to keep the innocent, my friends, and their families safe as well. Especially your family, Ron. You give me a family when I've never had one. That means something to me, and I'll never forget it."

"What… what are you trying to say?" Ron asked after a few seconds, feeling tears roll down his eyes. And I thought I wouldn't bloody cry again!

"That you might think that you owe me big time for sacrificing myself for you, but no, mate. You invited me to your home, your family took me in as if I were another son, and you always looked out for me, just like I did for you. We're partners in all of this," Xavier explained, and Ron slowly nodded. He's right… he's so fucking right…

"They call us both prodigies," Ron started, wiping his tears away and taking on a firm expression. "But if we're prodigies, then we should have at least caused the slightest damage to the Dark Lord. But we couldn't and that fucking sucks."

"Exactly!" Xavier exclaimed before he composed himself calmly. "We've got to work harder, mate. I'm only alive because of a miracle and because of whoever healed me. It's the only way. No sacrifice, no victory." I'm so glad he and I think alike… we both follow the mission to oppose the Dark lord…

"Whatever it takes," Ron agreed firmly, and the boys shook hands firmly.

"Damn," Ron laughed once he released his hand from Xavier's. "You been thinking about this a lot, haven't you?"

"I've had a lot of time to myself once I woke up," Xavier responded with a shrug. "It felt good to revaluate and shuffle the new priorities and I'm glad that you and I are on the same page."

"As always, mate," Ron grinned, and Xavier smirked.

"You've become much more mature," Xavier pointed out, and Ron shrugged.

"Probably because of hanging around you and our friends. I've already told you this, but I used to be a lazy kid who had no damn worries about anything. I became jealous of my siblings and decided to make myself a path for success I could say. Befriending and being around you and our friends has changed me quite a bit," Ron supplied, and Xavier nodded firmly.

"Change is inevitable," Xavier commented, and Ron agreed.

Albus Dumbledore's P.O.V:

St. Mungo's – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:38 a.m.)

Arthur and Remus had excused themselves to go search for Sirius and Albus headed over to Xavier Desmond's room. A small pit of guilt had already added onto the immense amount Albus stored in his body. Albus couldn't tell Sirius or anyone else the real reason why Harry was meant to stay with Petunia. The love from Lily was powerful enough to save her baby boy and create some sort of protection with those who shared her blood. Petunia, of course, shared her blood, and Albus also wanted young Harry to grow away from all the fame and noise around his name and status. Any boy would grow arrogant from it.

However, Albus began to doubt if Harry's 'home' was really a safe environment for him. Albus was given quite the shock to see how skinny and unfed Harry was once he first saw him. Not even Xavier Desmond looked that gaunt. Were Vernon and Petunia not feeding Harry? Were they mistreating him? Was he bullied or even worse, tortured at times?

Albus sighed deeply and knocked on the door to Xavier Desmond's ward. The door opened after a few seconds, revealing Ronald Weasley in the doorway and Xavier Desmond resting on the bed.

"May I come in, my dear boys?" Albus asked politely, though he did his best to hide his startling surprise.

The second Albus had stepped into the room and consumed the lingering magic, powerful waves of raw, cold yet boiling magic came rushing at him. The magic was sent straight from Xavier himself, and Albus shuddered as he stared intensely at Xavier. The raw magic that was fulminating from Xavier Desmond was something that Albus had never felt before in his lengthy life. Its presence alone sent chills down Albus's spine, which was seldom. Is this Tom's doing? Did he cause something to happen to this boy while in the process of possessing him? What is this dark magic I feel from the boy? I've never felt it before…

"Of course, headmaster," Ronald replied respectfully, while Xavier nodded firmly. The two boys obviously didn't notice Albus' preoccupied look. Albus shook himself out of his small trance and entered the room gratefully, and Ronald closed the door behind him. Albus drew up a chair, Ronald sat on the end of the bed, and Xavier propped himself up. I'll figure out why this demonising source of magic lingers from Xavier Desmond's soul…

"What would you like to discuss, sir?" Xavier asked, and Albus smiled softly. It was music to his ears to hear one of his students speak once more. Albus would have never forgiven himself for letting Xavier Desmond die due to Albus' foolishness.

"Firstly, I would like to apologise, my dear boys," Albus started, and the two boys exchanged slow looks. "To you, your friends, your family, I am terribly sorry. My own arrogance almost caused the loss of one of my students and potentially more."

"Er, sir, it's quite all right," Xavier started, shooting a glance at Ronald.

"Yeah, professor, if anything, we shouldn't have meddled with your business. We're sorry, sir," Ronald apologised, and Albus squeezed his shoulder. Poor boys…

"You saved the school along with your three Gryffindor friends," Albus said, looking at them both with true pride. "You mustn't apologise for anything, boys."

Xavier and Ronald slowly nodded, and Xavier stared at Albus with a peculiar look.

"There's more you want to say, isn't there?" Xavier noted, and Albus smiled more widely. Such intelligent children…

"Indeed, my boy. I have already discussed this endeavour with Ronald and his family. Your friends and the professors also know of what really happened that night," Albus explained, and Xavier nodded strongly.

"I already know, professor. Spreading this information wouldn't do any good at all. The Dark Lord's own stigmatized name will cause fear and disruption throughout the Wizarding World, and so many will tend to not believe our stories. I will tell no one, I promise," Xavier vowed firmly, and Albus almost found himself staring at the boy with disbelief. Albus knew that he was attached to these two boys; they were just far too interesting and Albus wanted to solve them both as if they were complicated conundrums.

"That is all I ask, my boy," Albus placed his hand on Xavier's shoulder and winced when he felt how fragile the boy was. Xavier noticed this and stared back with an emotionless expression. Ronald quietly watched.

"I apologise once more," Albus started weakly, and an old feeling inside of him erupted. Memories came rushing back and Albus held his breath. These children… they were helpless against Tom… is that… is that how Ariana felt? Was she helpless in my absence? Oh god…

Albus looked away swiftly and didn't seem to hear the two boys asking if he was all right. Albus looked back once more, and a tear slid down his face.

"I'm so sorry, my dear boys… I'm so terribly sorry… please forgive me…" Albus whispered and without another word, he departed from the ward, leaving the boys to stare after him in confusion.

Xavier Desmond's P.O.V:

St. Mungo's – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (9:40 a.m.)

"Erm, what was that all about?" Xavier asked slowly, breaking the baffled silence. I mean Ron and I have accomplished many things… but did we just make Albus fucking Dumbledore shed a tear? Nah, there's more to it than meets the eye…

"No bloody clue, mate," Ron answered, shaking his head, and closing the door once more. He then turned back and sighed deeply.

"I thought you said you were all right, Xavier. Dumbledore touched your shoulder and he flinched immediately," Ron pointed out, but Xavier waved Ron's statement aside. My body will be restored soon enough… After that, I will move onto harder exercises for my body.

"Yeah, I feel fine mentally, though besides the new thoughts that I have shared with you. Physically, I need to do more exercises according to the Healers, and soon, I'll be able to continue my runs and whatnot," Xavier responded truthfully, and Ron slowly nodded.

"Daphne's family will be holding their dinner party on the 23rd," Ron reminded. "You reckon you can still come, mate? It's better not to if you don't feel fully like yourself."

"Yeah, I will be able to make it, for sure," Xavier replied, and he then smirked mischievously. "In fact, I reckon we should make it a surprise."

"A surprise, eh?" Ron asked, grinning. "Do tell, mate."

"Tell Daphne and the others that I'll need a few more weeks to heal and regain more strength and that I'll probably miss her family's dinner party. Then, I'll show up and surprise them," Xavier explained, and Ron nodded firmly.

"Daphne and Pansy are going to kill me," Ron said with a smile. "Let's do it."

"Perfect," Xavier said, and he looked firmly at Ron. "This year, we'll work harder, mate. We might need to delve into more Conjuration spells and maybe even more powerful spells." I'm definitely going to look for more powerful and effective spells…

"Agreed. I might even start on wandless magic," Ron added in thoughtfully, and Xavier nodded.

"I'll help you, bro," Xavier supported.

"Thanks, mate," Ron said with an appreciative look. "Dad is probably going to come looking for me. We'll come back when the healers discharge you."

"I, uh… thanks, mate," Xavier replied, shaking Ron's hand. "Take care, bro."

"You too, mate." Ron finished, smiling at Xavier and he then left the room. Xavier sighed heavily and pulled out a chocolate card from underneath his pillow.

CAESARIUS DESMOND

A prodigy from the very beginning of his Hogwarts years, Caesarius Desmond has proven himself to be one of the most powerful and capable wizards of all time. Caesarius holds many impressive titles such as Duelling Champion, Master of Wandless Magic and Legilimency, Inventor of Portals, and Pioneer of a New Era. Caesarius' most famous feat is his defeat of Lady Dysnomia in 1980 and capturing her loyal followers, the Dysnomia Soldiers. Though Caesarius preferred working alone, he has worked alongside the likes of Albus Dumbledore in defeating dark wizards and witches, especially those known as the Death Eaters. However, as a very private person, many of his works, discoveries, and creations such as the Portals have never been uncovered. Long Live the Great Caesarius Desmond.

ATHENA ANDERSON

A Master Occlumens and an adventurer who discovered unknown species of magical plants and properties, Athena Anderson was a fierce, yet gentle soul. Athena brought an end to the reign of terror from the dark witch, Lady Dysnomia, and defeated the dark witch in 1980. Just like her husband, Caesarius Desmond, Athena was an extremely private person and many of her findings were never noted. Long Live the Beautiful Athena Anderson.

Xavier gripped the two cards, and he closed his eyes. This mission is all that matters… I'm going to all the information I can get… Lord Voldemort… I'll come for you...

Tracey Davis' P.O.V:

Davis Manor – Sunday, July 6th, 1992 (5 p.m.)

"How many did you catch?" Aunt Mary asked excitedly. Tracey, Travis, Tracey's dad, and Uncle Trent beamed proudly.

"We caught five each," Uncle Trent answered, dumping the lifeless fish onto the table. "Big ones too!"

"You two ought to change clothes," Tracey's mother advised tutting at Tracey and Travis' wet clothes.

"Good idea, Aunt Claudia," Travis replied with a wide smile, and he ran off for his room. Tracey giggled and was about to take off after him when Aunt Mary stopped her.

"Here, dear," Aunt Mary said, placing a letter in Tracey's hand. "It arrived a while ago and I believe it is for you."

Tracey stared at it with a confused look before shrugging and continuing to make her way upstairs to Travis' room. Tracey opened the door and closed it behind her, while Travis slipped on a plain blue t-shirt.

"Who's that from?" Travis asked, eyeing Tracey's letter.

"I'm not sure, Trav," Tracey replied, placing the letter on his desk. Tracey then moved over to the corner of the room and changed her soaking top with one of Travis' spare green t-shirts. Her cousin had generously lent his t-shirts to Tracey over the stay, and she took advantage of the comfortability in them.

"Are you going to read it or are you going to wait for some fairy to come by?" Travis joked, and Tracey rolled her eyes.

"All right, I'll read it," Tracey relented, though a small pit of nervousness began to form in her stomach. She dearly prayed that it wasn't bad news.

Tracey sat with her cousin on his bed and ripped the envelope off. She immediately recognised the writing as Daphne's, and she hitched her breath.

"Go on, Trace," Travis encouraged, and Tracey took a deep breath. Here goes nothing…

Dear Tracey,

Hello, best friend! I'm very pleased to know that you are enjoying your stay in America alongside your family. Things around here have been all right, mainly thanks to Theo and Blaise. Millie is staying over at Pansy's and Ron is also doing better now.

I've got amazing news, Trace. It's Xavier. He has awakened and he says that he is doing good! Can you believe it?! He's alive!

I just wanted to inform you of this new revelation, and I hope you feel even better now. I, myself, sure do feel so much better. Even Blaise was smiling in pure delight! That's the first time I've seen him like that!

I can't wait to see you again, Trace.

Love, Daphne.

Tracey slowly lowered the letter, her expression filled with absolute disbelief. Xavier is alive… he's all right…

Tracey glanced over to Travis and her favourite cousin was smiling knowingly.

"What did I tell you, Trace?" Travis asked with a smirk. "Everything was going to be all right."

"He's alive… he isn't dead…" Tracey gasped in exasperation. She then turned to Travis and pulled him into the tightest hug she had ever given someone. She laughed blissfully as Travis shared her sentiment, though he was red in the face.

"He's alive, he's alive, he's alive!" Tracey chanted in a sing-song voice. Travis grinned and Tracey kissed him on the cheek. Travis chuckled, happy at seeing his favourite cousin's current state.

"You were right, Trav!" Tracey beamed at him, still engulfing him in a loving cuddle. "Everything was going to be all right…"

"Learned from the best," Travis shrugged, and Tracey placed a hand on her chest. Her heart rate was beating wildly, and she took a deep breath, effectively slowing it down and she sighed happily. My friend is alive… Thank you, God…

Lucius Malfoy's P.O.V:

Malfoy Manor – Monday, July 7th, 1992 (10 a.m.)

Lucius rubbed his forehead in irritation as he felt his persistent headache increase. Problems had sprouted from different angles for Lucius and the only things that kept him at bay were his influence and his wife, though even the latter was short-lived.

His son was outed by the noble Slytherin House and somehow, that Blood-Traitor's son, Ronald Weasley, was adored and supported by the student of Slytherin House, while his own son, Draco Malfoy, heir to the Malfoys, was now sneered upon, mainly from the older students. The only reason Lucius knew this was because of Draco's friends Crabbe and Goyle, who were instructed to send letters to Lucius from time to time, detailing his son's actions. And judging by his son's sour and distant look throughout the holidays, they were right. Draco was currently a fraud to the Slytherin House, and Lucius needed to change that. Once I'm done with this paperwork, I'll call him over to discuss the plans for this new year… Maybe I should have really sent him to Durmstrang…

Lucius couldn't deny that he felt frustrated with his son. Sure, his son was still excelling in his studies most likely due to the tutor that Lucius had hired, but it was only a matter of time before even Draco's focus on studies would be shifted. The boy clearly wanted to rule Slytherin, and his ideas were starting to become lost and twisted. At first, Lucius had opted to say nothing, mostly due to Narcissa's pleas, but at one point, Lucius snapped. He began to scold his son for his foolish morals and idiotic actions at the dinner table, leading to a heated argument with his own wife. All of it because Draco was overshadowed by some Blood-Traitor who wasn't even supposed to belong to Slytherin.

Thinking of Ronald Weasley made Lucius clench his teeth tightly in anger. How could that little Blood-Traitor outdo his son? Why was he so different? What made him so special, enough to be labelled a 'prodigy'? Just picturing the Weasleys was enough for Lucius to ball his fists. As if one Weasley wasn't enough! The Head of Misuse of Magical Artifacts Department, Arthur Weasley, had gone and drafted a legislation for Muggles to be protected against dangerous magical artifacts. The sheer will of that Blood-Traitor… No matter, I will him pay dearly…

Raids would now be conducted soon in many of the Pure-Blood family's homes and Lucius had no choice but to stash many of his valuable treasures away secretly or to sell them to Borgin & Burkes. I'll need to make another visit soon…

And then there was the famous, Xavier Desmond, the other 'prodigy' who was outdoing his son. The long lost son of the fearsome Caesarius Desmond and elegant Athena Desmond. Lucius had gotten quite the shock when he learned of the boy's arrival to Hogwarts through Draco's letter. Not only had this boy given quite the shock of his living status to everyone around him, but he was also sorted into Slytherin, the rival House of his own parent's. Lucius could only hope that this boy, Xavier Desmond, would travel down the road like that of his own son. Unfortunately, his son informed him that the famous boy had made an alliance with Ronald Weasley and Draco's old friends, much to Lucius's bitter disappointment. How humorous it would have been for the boy to travel down a road much different to that of his father's.

Lucius shuddered at the thought of Caesarius Desmond; Lucius would never admit it, but he feared Caesar almost as he feared his own master. Lucius wasn't foolish enough to deny that he feared the legendary dark-skinned wizard, but he would deny that his fear for Caesarius rivalled that of his own fear for his master, even if the intimidating Gryffindor was dead.

The dark-skinned wizard had brought immense pain and destruction upon Lucius and his fellow Death-Eater's throughout the first War, even injuring Lucius severely once. The vivid memories of Caesar's damage forever haunted Lucius' dreams. It took weeks for Lucius to stop dreaming about the night where he and five other Death-Eaters were commanded to raid a small Muggle village, only to be interrupted by the great Desmond himself. The man had killed Crabbe's brother with the strike of lightning, and he had heavily injured Lucius and the others. Lucius only barely made it out alive and it took days before Lucius could even walk properly.

The man was just horrifying as the Dark Lord himself and that was solidified in not just Lucius' mind, but the many enemies of Caesarius Desmond. Lucius could only imagine how the outcome would be if Caesarius was a Death-Eater himself…

A knock came to Lucius' door, and he regained his composure while shaking those thoughts away.

"Come in," Lucius spoke, and the door opened to reveal his wife and Theseus Nott in the doorway.

"Husband, our guest has arrived," Narcissa informed, smiling at Lucius, though he knew better that it was an act in front of their old friend and that Narcissa was still fuming with him. Lucius stood up to exchange a firm handshake with his old friend.

"How pleasant it is to see you, Theseus," Lucius greeted politely, and Theseus chuckled heartily.

"The same goes for you, my friend," Theseus replied and the two sat down. He says that he has important matters to discuss with me…

"I'll bring some refreshments up," Narcissa said, and she left Lucius' study, closing the door behind her.

"So, what matters do you wish to discuss with me, Theseus?" Lucius asked, and Theseus waved a hand.

"That can wait, Lucius. Tell me, how is everything at the moment?" Theseus questioned, and Lucius sighed. A conversation between two friends, eh?

"Well, as you probably know, that Blood-Traitor, Arthur Weasley, has been pushing to pass the Muggle Protection Act so that the Mudbloods are protected from our treasured artifacts. I've been selling some of my things to Borgin and Burkes, mainly until these raids are over with, though I doubt that raids will cease completely," Lucius responded sourly, and Theseus scoffed.

"Filthy Blood-Traitor. Sure feels damn good knowing that Antonin and I took the heads of his two brothers-in-law. We must act against these traitors and vermin, which actually brings me to the matters I wanted to discuss," Theseus provided, and Lucius gestured him to continue.

"Our Lord is still alive, Lucius," Theseus started, and Lucius froze in his chair. So, it was true. His son had really encountered the Dark Lord alongside Weasley and Desmond. The Dark Lord was still out there…

"How?" Lucius asked after a moment, clearing his voice to remove any trace of weakness.

"I'm not entirely sure about that," Theseus answered, frowning to himself. "I only know of this revelation from listening wards placed throughout my home. My son and his friend, Blaise Zabini, discussed this, and I found out that the Dark Lord had tried to possess one of their allies, Xavier Desmond. The boy is in St. Mungo's, isn't he? So, it must be true…"

Lucius didn't even reply. The Dark Lord was still alive. Lucius felt a spark of hope for the Purebloods that wanted to rule the world, but at the same time, his instincts convinced him otherwise to decline such thoughts. The Dark Lord was surely going to threaten and aim his anger at Lucius and the rest of the Death-Eaters who gave up on searching him.

Lucius wouldn't lie; the last couple of years were some of his best. Once he reclaimed influence and power within the Ministry from donating large amounts of money for charitable causes, he had raised his son with the best woman he could have ever asked for, all without the interference of the Dark Lord or anybody else. Did Lucius want to lose that? No. But Lucius knew better than most that the Dark Lord would not stop until he was granted his goals.

"Lucius, are you still there?" Theseus asked, and Lucius blinked at him. I zoned out…

"How can you be sure about this, Theseus?" Lucius inquired, his brow furrowed heavily.

"Why would my son and his friend be conversing about such matter? No, our Lord is still out there. Think about it, Lucius. We'll go find him and he'll grant us power and rewards for finding him, mainly before anyone else," Theseus explained, but Lucius frowned.

"Yes, but if our Lord was alive this whole time, then he will direct his rage at us for not finding him years ago," Lucius pointed out.

"No matter, we'll make excuses, Lucius. Whatever we must say to join his side once more. If he is truly alive and roaming about, he will no doubt come for us anyway, Lucius. We must be loyal to our Master. He'll leave our sons and your wife out of this if we do so and I don't plan to watch the world get overruled and run by filthy Mudboods, Blood-Traitors, Half-Breeds, and other parasites!" Theseus argued, and Lucius sighed deeply as he took his old friend's words. He has a point…

Just then, a knock came at the door and Lucius consented for his wife to come in. His wife opened the door, placed a tray of two glasses and a bottle of Odgen's Finest, and exited the room once more. I'll have to talk to her about this…

"So, what do you say, Lucius?" Theseus asked after a few seconds, pouring him and Lucius the drink. I'll have to agree with him… Our Lord's search for us will be inevitable…

"I… I stand with you, my friend," Lucius replied after a moment, and Theseus broke into a proud smile.

"Let us toast in honour of our Lord's return and in the hopes of finding him!" Theseus spoke, raising a glass to Lucius, who did the same in return.

As they clinked their glasses and drank the burning sensation of Firewhiskey, Lucius felt as if a small amount of regret was beginning to build inside him. Theseus was no longer the man he was with his wife's presence. His wife was deceased, and time had changed the man. All he wanted was to bring immeasurable devastation upon those who weren't of Pure-Blood status, while his son, Theodore Nott, was old enough to look after himself and was as privileged as to any other Pure-Blood child. Lucius, however, had a different aspect. He had a wife. He had a son. He had a beautiful home. He had power, influence, money, he had everything. Do I really want this to all end?

Lord Voldemort's P.O.V:

Lord Voldemort cursed his enemies once more. After fleeing the Hogwarts castle, Voldemort had opted to possess little animals, such as dogs, cats, rats, and birds. Most of the time, the vessels failed Voldemort as his soul was too much to bear for them and only know had Voldemort found a body of a mutt that was able to be use for him. Wretched animal…

The dog howled in constant pain, something that was ready for Voldemort to tear his own soul apart. No one knew pain as he did. No one would ever come close to even knowing the agony Voldemort was in. Whatever that fucking demon was inside of Desmond's mind was something that was sent straight from hell itself. And Voldemort couldn't have that. Only I shall bring terror upon this Earth!

Lord Voldemort painfully slowed down, resting underneath a tree and he screamed in fury once more. CURSE THEM ALL! I CAN'T EVEN BRING MYSELF TO GET UNICORN BLOOD! CURSE THAT MONSTER FOR RIPPING MY SOUL APART!

Lord Voldemort would have to be patient once more, awaiting his soul to mend slowly as he searched for solutions to heal himself. Unicorn Blood or perhaps even Basilisk Venom… Two things that were exceedingly rare at the moment for the reach of Voldemort. I shall gather my strength and mobilize an army… they have all grown fat and lazy in my absence… I will show them what rights they have and where they belong! LORD VOLDEMORT WILL RULE THE WORLD AND DEATH SHALL NOT TAKE MY HAND!