Until The End

Until The End

Chapter 19: The Heist

"When there is no struggle, there is no strength…"

Xavier Desmond's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Friday, July 18th,1992 (12 p.m.)

"Everyone, Xavier is home," Mr. Weasley announced with a proud smile, as he and Xavier reached the doorway to the kitchen of the Burrow. All pairs of eyes immediately traveled to the dark-skinned boy, and Xavier scratched his hair.

"Hello there," Xavier started slowly, but he was met with loud cheers and joyful laughter from the Weasleys, Lovegoods, Sirius, and Remus, who all sat around the table with mouth-watering food awaiting to be devoured. Xavier smiled nostalgically as the twins whistled at him. It felt great to be back at the Burrow and once again, Xavier began to doubt why he deserved such hospitality from these people.

Mr Weasley squeezed Xavier's shoulder gently and gestured him to join the occupants at the table. Xavier nodded firmly and Mrs Weasley quickly came over to guide Xavier over to the table, although Xavier was perfectly capable of doing so. After recuperating for a few more days in the hospital, reclaiming his strength and replenishing his Magical Core, Xavier felt better than ever, and he was certainly up for returning to his exercise schedule and making himself more durable. Strength is an important element for a human being…

Xavier took a seat in between Sirius and Remus and smirked to himself as he looked around and studied the people around him. Mr Weasley had sat down at the head of the elongated table, while his wife took a seat to his right. Sirius sat on the opposite end of the table, while Ron sat across Xavier and next to Sirius. Ginny, Luna, Pandora and presumably her husband sat in between Ron and Mrs Weasley, while Percy and the twins sat in between Remus and Mr Weasley.

Ron beamed at him and when Xavier returned a grin, the two shook hands firmly. They missed Sirius grinning proudly at them.

Mrs. Weasley then got up once more and swiftly came over to Xavier just so that she could pile a mountain of appetizing food onto his plate. Xavier almost looked horrified; how the hell was he going to eat that much?!

"Eat all of it, dear, you look like skin and bones," Mrs Weasley tutted with a smile, while Ginny and Lune giggled at Xavier's expression. Fair enough, that food at St. Mungo's was atrocious, so this will be heaven for me…

"Ease up on that amount, Molly, or he might be sent back into another coma for Merlin's sakes," Sirius remarked, and the kids all burst into laughter, while Mrs Weasley simply huffed at him. Fucking hell, Mrs Weasley does not look amused with Sirius, that's for sure!

"Sirius, behave yourself," Remus scolded, though he was chuckling himself. Sirius simply laughed and shot a wink at Xavier.

Fifteen minutes of pure bliss had gone by, and Xavier was almost full to bursting with the scrumptious food prepared by Mrs Weasley. Honestly, she should open her own restaurant…

Xavier had acquainted himself with Xenophilius Lovegood and found the eccentric man rather interesting and amusing. Xeno had questioned Xavier about his time so far at Hogwarts and he had listened in awe to Xavier's accolades, all the while relaying his stories of going on adventures to discover unknown Magical creatures along with Luna. Pandora had also discussed Wandless Magic with Xavier and the dark-skinned boy had listened intently as Pandora explained the many special uses and enhancements of Wandless Magic. He was surprised to hear that Pandora was still indulging in the art of Spell Creation and that definitely intrigued Xavier to say the least. Maybe he could look into Spell Creation sometime in the foreseeable future…

After explaining the functions of a helicopter to an excited Mr Weasley, Xavier began chatting away with Ron, Sirius, and Remus. As Sirius and Remus would banter, Xavier soon realised that the two men were like two halves of a coin. They were fun to be around when by themselves, but they were even better in each other's presence. Like Fred and George…

Another few things Xavier took note of were Remus' scars and Sirius' constant nicknames he used on Ron and Xavier. Xavier had opted to stay silent and not question the origins of Remus' scars, wishing to not offend the man as he found Remus to be an interesting individual like Sirius. Afterall, Xavier wouldn't really bother to explain his own 'scars' to someone else. Xavier had only spotted the weird patterns that had emerged on his back after examining himself in a mirror back at St. Mungo's, and to be honest, they actually looked quite cool, though Xavier wasn't sure why they were there. Maybe it was The Grim's doing, or it was an effect of when The Grim interfered with the Dark Lord's pursuit of possessing Xavier. Whatever the reason is, I'll probably find out soon enough…

As for Sirius, the man would constantly give nicknames to Ron and Xavier, such as calling Ron 'red-locks' and calling Xavier 'dark-locks', and the duo simply welcomed it. Dark-locks is a pretty cool nickname I reckon… as for red-locks, I'm pretty sure Sirius is referring to a powerful Viking…

"Sirius," Xavier started, and the handsome man looked back to Xavier with a grin. "Thank you for passing on my father's heirloom to me, it meant a lot."

"Oh, sure thing, kiddo," Sirius replied, ruffling Xavier's dreadlocks, while Remus took a closer look at the sacred ring.

"Caesar left this with you?" Remus asked, and Sirius nodded.

"Yeah, it was possibly the last time I ever saw him before… you know…" Sirius trailed off, and Remus nodded in understanding. Xavier and Ron, however, clenched their teeth. All because of some back-stabbing rat…

"Can you tell us more about Caesar Desmond?" Ron asked, hoping to change the subject; he did not like to see Sirius or Remus look melancholic.

"Ah, of course," Remus replied, and Sirius smiled at the two boys.

"He was one hell of a ladies man, that's for sure-" Sirius started, but he stopped and grinned sheepishly when Remus cocked an eyebrow. Xavier and Ron exchanged awkward glances.

"Well, that's good to know," Xavier started slyly, and Sirius barked out a laugh. "But can you tell us about how my father was like at Hogwarts and be serious, please."

"But… I am Sirius," Sirius responded softly, and Remus sighed heavily. For fuck sakes…

Sirius merely grinned and then replaced it with a genuine expression.

"Well, for one, Caesar was in our year," Sirius started. Xavier and Ron leaned in, while Remus listened.

"Caesar was a very secretive guy, and one time, I even confronted him about it," Sirius told, and Remus chuckled as he reminisced that particular memory.

"What happened?" Ron asked quickly.

"Let's just say, Sirius made sure to be cautious and kept his distance from Caesar for about two months straight. He was very scared of your father," Remus answered with a smirk.

"I was not scared!" Sirius huffed indignantly, while Xavier and Ron laughed. "Ok, maybe a little…"

"But, in the end, I believe Caesar felt a little guilty and he came forward to apologise to Sirius," Remus continued with a faint smile.

"Hell, he was probably the only one who didn't get any retaliation from me or James," Sirius pointed out. James? As in Harry's father?

"Caesar was a prodigy from the very start, and he impressed the professors on the first day," Remus told. Yeah, no wonder everyone thinks that my father and I are the same…

"Was Caesar apart of your 'Marooder' gang or whatever it's called?" Ron questioned, and Sirius barked out a laugh.

"First of all, it was called the Marauders and it only consisted of James Potter, Peter Pettigrew, Remus, and I. Like I said before, Caesar was very secretive and like that, he mostly kept to himself. He already had the respect of the professors and the awe of most of the students, but he was a solo man from day one," Sirius recalled, and Ron nodded in interest. Xavier however stared blankly at Sirius. Did he say… the Marauders? Like the creators of the map Fred and George gave me? No way…

"Anyway, he kept striving to further his knowledge, and each day, he steadily grew more popular and intelligent. That was until something occurred in the fourth or fifth year," Sirius told, but he then stopped abruptly and looked at Remus. Xavier and Ron looked between them. What happened?

"Your father's parents… they were killed," Remus supplied gravely, and Xavier sighed. Yep, there goes any chance of finding any other possible family members that bear the Desmond name…

"How?" Ron asked with a furrowed brow.

"I'm not entirely sure, to be honest, boys. I'm not sure anyone truly did. If Caesar knew, then that meant he never told anyone, but he was convinced it to be the Dark Lord's doing," Sirius replied seriously, and Xavier clenched his teeth. That immeasurable source of rage filled him once more at the mere thought of the Dark Lord. The Dark Lord was behind my paternal grandparent's death, eh? I will have his soul…

Remus noticed this and placed a comforting hand on Xavier's shoulder, and Xavier instantaneously drew in a breath to calm himself. The last thing he needed was to show signs of a demonic version of himself. Wait, can I even show any demonic signs in the first place?

"What happened next?" Xavier asked while Ron shot him a sympathetic look.

"Well, that was when things went downhill fast," Sirius responded woefully, and he seemed to be almost going through his past memories. "Your father may have become the most feared student within Hogwarts' walls. He constantly lashed out at anyone who opposed him, he disappeared for hours and even we Gryffindors weren't safe from his wrath. Not once did anyone catch the guy shedding tears, though… he just… he just became a cold shell consumed with fury that didn't care about anything or anyone else, not even himself…"

"Bloody hell…" Ron muttered with wide eyes, while Xavier simply digested Sirius' words. Maybe my father and I are more alike than I thought…

"And that's when your mother came in," Sirius spoke with a bright smile, and Xavier instantly looked at him.

"My mother?" Xavier asked, and Remus nodded.

"She was in our year as well and she was a very gifted witch, especially in Potions, Herbology, and Astronomy. I believe that she had begun to develop feelings for your father in the third or fourth year," Remus explained. "After a while, she had taken the true Gryffindor courage to go find Caesar and comfort him. And slowly, Caesar became his old self again, leaving the wrath behind and instead focusing it on becoming an Auror, solely on catching dark wizards and witches as a war was approaching, and making his name more pronounced to the Wizarding World."

"Thank bloody Merlin for that beautiful witch, Caesar even began to crack jokes and laugh more because of Athena's presence!" Sirius exclaimed, almost as if he were talking to himself.

"I'm sorry if my father caused you guys any distress or anything-" Xavier started, but Remus' chuckle cut him off.

"No, he never really lashed out at us, though he never did like Peter," Remus provided, and both Xavier and Ron smirked coldly.

"Serves that bloody rat right!" Ron exclaimed. Unfortunately for him, Mrs. Weasley had heard his words and had immediately scolded him sternly, much to Ron's embarrassment. Xaver did his best to not laugh, while the twins and Sirius were already sniggering to themselves at Ron's predicament.

"Bloody hell…" Ron mumbled after everyone went back to their own conversations.

"That was great!" Sirius remarked, and Ron's ears only turned redder.

"Sirius, have you spoken to Harry lately?" Xavier suddenly asked, remembering his bespectacled Gryffindor friend. "Ron told me that Harry hasn't been responding to any of his letters."

Sirius instantly glared at his own plate, while Remus sighed tiredly. Oh, shit… what happened?

"What happened, Sirius?" Ron asked slowly as he had no idea either.

Sirius looked back up and sighed wearily to himself. "Remus and I went to the muggle residence where Harry's staying, but his muggle family refused to let us see him. I couldn't even smell him…" Sirius answered bitterly, and Xavier couldn't help but feel sorry for the man, though he felt confused at the last thing Sirius said. Harry is his godson… why doesn't he get to say with Sirius and Remus?

"Harry's staying over with his muggle family?" Ron asked with a horrified expression and the realization hit Xavier like a bludger to the head. What the fuck?! Those people literally abuse Harry, who would make him stay with them?!

"Yeah, what the hell?! Harry even told Ron and I once that his 'family' nearly starved him because when they cut him bald, his hair had grown back within a day!" Xavier added in, and Sirius look furious beyond words, while Remus was shocked.

"What?!" Sirius almost bellowed, but he made sure to keep his tone down, especially since he didn't want to face Mrs. Weasley's ire.

"Would Petunia really do that to her own nephew?" Remus asked quietly. Petunia?

"Of course, she would, Remus, she doesn't love him! None of them do!" Sirius exclaimed exasperatedly.

"Is there anything we can do?" Ron asked seriously, while Xavier nodded firmly. Sirius and Remus blinked at the boys before ruffling their hair.

"Not really, my young cobras, but I appreciate your concern," Sirius responded softly, doing his best to retreat from his irritation of the situation. He didn't want the two Slytherins to fret over their Gryffindor friend as he and Remus did.

Ron shot Xavier a quick look, and Xavier understood clearly. They needed to find a way to break Harry out because they knew what Harry's 'family' were really like. They mistreated and neglected him and treated him poorly and it was a surprise that Harry hadn't turned out all grim and pugnacious. Xavier and Ron needed to reunite Harry with his Godfather.

The Burrow – Sunday, July 20th,1992 (7 a.m.)

Xavier slowly opened his eyes and yawned blearily. He was now officially 12, a fact that he had almost forgotten. I should be glad, there are people who don't even make it to twelve…

Normally, Xavier would have joined Ron on their morning jogs in the everlasting pastures that surrounded the Burrow, but once Mrs. Weasley requested for Xavier to not exercise just yet, the dark-skinned boy opted to agree. I'll begin my workouts soon enough… The last thing I want is for anyone to be worrying about me again…

Xavier removed his blanket and when he noticed that Ron's bed was empty, he figured that Ron had already gone downstairs for breakfast. Yesterday, the two had ended up brainstorming the best solutions to rescue Harry without getting caught, and Ron had finally come up with a feasible plan; the two boys would sneak out at night to the shed where Mr. Weasley's flying car was kept and use it to travel and rescue Harry. The only problem that sprouted from this method was that neither of them knew where Harry actually lived. Asking Remus or Sirius would just be foolish, so Ron decided to owl Hermione instead for Harry's address. Soon, Harry will be here with us…

Though Ron had tried to reason with Xavier to stay back as maybe something could happen to him, Xavier reassured that he was perfectly fine and that two people on a mission were better than one. If any of his family members blame him for putting me in potential danger, I will make sure to remind them that I chose to go with him and that he didn't force me.

As Xavier got off his bed, Ron barged into the room with his hands full of colourfully wrapped presents and closed the door behind him, before placing the presents on the floor. What the hell?!

"Bloody twins," Ron muttered, scowling furiously, and he missed Xavier's bewildered look.

"Um, Ron, what's going on?" Xavier interjected, and Ron blinked at him.

"Oh, right," Ron chuckled nervously, and he then looked at Xavier with a bright smile. "Happy birthday, mate."

Ron then walked over and hugged his best mate, and Xavier froze. Are those presents… for me?

"What's wrong, mate?" Ron asked as he released his hold and studied Xavier's shell-shocked expression.

"Are these gifts… for me?" Xavier asked slowly, and Ron smiled widely.

"Of course, they are, mate! What, you thought that we'd forget your birthday?" Ron answered, and Xavier stared back with an ajar jaw.

"Mate…" Xavier started, finding himself speechless. "I told you that it was fine to not get me gifts-"

"Bloody hell, Xavier, screw that! You're my best mate and you mean something not only to me, but to our Slytherin friends, Gryffindor friends, my family, Sirius, and Remus!" Ron cut him off firmly.

"You ALL got me presents?" Xavier asked incredulously. Ron nodded as if it was the most normal thing in the world, and Xavier stared at him for a good minute before engulfing him in a hug. Ron stiffened, but slowly relaxed and returned it.

"I… I don't know what to say, Ron," Xavier admitted weakly, and Ron laughed, though he was blushing.

"You don't need to, mate, just open the gifts," Ron assured, and Xavier shot him a look of appreciation.

Xavier then kneeled by the presents, while Ron jumped onto his bed and began to chew on some of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans.

"A bit too early in the day for sweets, don't you think?" Xavier questioned with a smirk.

"Oh, just open your bloody presents already!" Ron remarked, and Xavier chuckled.

Xavier then looked back to the pile of smoothly wrapped presents and started at the top with a gift wrapped in silver couldn't deny that he felt rather intrigued at the prospect of receiving birthday presents. Sure, he had gotten Christmas presents from the Weasley's and his friends, but Xavier hadn't expected of receiving any for his birthday. Maybe he was being too naïve or maybe Xavier simply didn't believe that he deserved it…

After ten minutes of opening and examining his presents, Xavier was transfixed with an astounded expression. He was utterly nonplussed. Theo and Blaise had gotten him luxurious formal robes, Pansy had gifted him an exquisite, golden pocket-watch, Millie had bought him a smooth, black cloak made from fine cashmere material, and last but not least, Tracey had bought Xavier his favourite book series in the entire world; The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. This is absolutely wicked…

"Some nice gifts, I reckon," Ron voiced his opinion, and Xavier agreed wholeheartedly. These are amazing… I'm going to use each one of them well…

"Aren't you going to read your letters?" Ron asked in confusion, staring at the letters neatly stacked by Xavier.

"Nah, I think I'll save them for later," Xavier replied, and Ron just nodded. Xavier touched the soft silk of the formal robes and smirked.

"I'm definitely going to wear these to the Greengrass' dinner party," Xavier stated, and Ron grinned.

"Which is where my gift will be awaiting you," Ron told with a secretive smirk, and Xavier stared at him.

"You got me a gift too?" Xavier questioned, and Ron merely rolled his eyes.

"I'm your best mate, of course, I did! Besides, the gift was actually purchased by me and Daphne. We both chipped in for it," Ron responded with a happy smile, and Xavier sighed. He probably spent a lot of money too…

"Hey, you bought me a bloody dummy that could match my skill in chess! Of course, I had to go out and get something just as good, otherwise, I would look like an idiot," Ron reasoned. "Besides, I wanted to get you a gift, no one forced me to. And don't worry about the money, I've got just enough to buy new school supplies, and then I'll probably find a way of earning money."

"Yeah, I know, mate… I'm just grateful," Xavier supplied earnestly, and Ron nodded firmly. "Thank you, brother. If you ever need money, I'll lend you any time."

"Um, thank you," Ron responded, his face slightly red, and he got off his bed.

"Come downstairs, everyone else is no doubt waiting to present their own gifts to you," Ron informed, and Xavier nodded.

After washing his teeth and refreshing himself, Xavier travelled down the stairs hastily, feeling quite delighted. As he entered the kitchen, he found Ron sitting by the table, while Mrs. Weasley and Pandora were chatting to each other.

"Good morning, dear," Mrs. Weasley said as soon as she spotted Xavier and gestured for him to sit at the table. "Breakfast will be ready soon."

"Where is everyone else?" Xavier asked as he sat across from Ron and took his daily potion intake.

"Dad went to work, Ginny and Luna are probably still sleeping, Percy is in his room, the twins are outside, and I think Xeno went to help Sirius and Remus clear out Sirius' childhood home," Ron answered, and Xavier nodded.

Percy then entered the kitchens and the bespectacled boy shot Xavier a smile.

"Happy birthday, Xavier," Percy said rather formally, and he held out his hand. Xavier shook it and to his surprise, Percy handed him a gift wrapped in brown. He got me a gift too…

"Is it your birthday today, Xavier?" Pandora asked curiously, and Mrs. Weasley spun around. Xavier nodded slowly, and Mrs. Weasley smiled widely.

"Oh, why didn't you say anything?! Don't worry, we'll have a special dinner tonight, dear," Mrs. Weasley promised, and she then began to unload her bacon and eggs onto plates for Xavier, Ron, and Percy.

"Honestly, it's fine Mrs. Weasley-"

"Nonsense!" Mrs. Weasley cut him off, reassuring him that it was all right. I honestly don't deserve this…

"I'll be right back, Molly," Pandora said with a thoughtful look planted on her face, and she then left the kitchen. Xavier looked back at his gift from Percy and decided to open it. Xavier neatly tore off the brown wrapping paper and he felt awed. A thick-covered book lay in his hands with weird symbols on the front and back covers. Didn't Ron get one of these for his birthday?

"It's a journal with special runes," Percy explained, and Xavier looked up to him. "The pages never run out and this journal is protected by special enchantments so that no one else can read through it."

"This is… this is brilliant, Percy, thank you very much," Xavier responded gratefully, and Percy seemed pleased. I can write all types of spells in here!

Xavier then stood up and decided to run back up to his and Ron's room so that he could place his journal there but as he entered the living room, the fireplace blazed green, and Pandora stepped out of it. Woah, was that floo transportation?

Pandora spotted him and smiled warmly before approaching him with a book in her hands. She went to go get me a present as well?! What the hell, when did I deserve such kindness?!

"Happy birthday, Xavier," Pandora said airily, smiling beautifully. She then handed Xavier the book and Xavier studied it in astonishment. The Art of Wandless Magic…

"Thank you very much, Pandora," Xavier responded sincerely. "This book will certainly help me extend my understanding of wandless magic."

"You're very welcome, love," Pandora replied soothingly, and Xavier ran back up the stairs with his two new gifts in his hands. It's like they're giving me things to help with my mission to become stronger!

Xavier placed his two new gifts along with the ones he had already opened and left the room.

"Psst!" came a hiss from behind Xavier and he whipped around to find Fred and George peeking over from behind a wall.

"Hey guys, what are you doing?" Xavier asked as he wandered over to them.

"Well, mum wanted us to de-gnome the garden," Fred started.

"But we thought that we should give you our gift first," George finished.

"Guys…" Xavier started, but he then stopped. "You really didn't have to-"

"Didn't have to, he says," Fred interjected, while George shook his head.

"I mean, you gave me a bloody map of the entire school that showed everyone at every point of time," Xavier pointed out, thinking of Sirius and Remus. "That map can easily cost five birthdays worth of presents in my opinion."

"We gave you that map because you unexpectedly took the blame for something that had nothing to do with you whatsoever," Fred argued firmly.

"And besides, you gave us joke items for our birthday, so this is the least we can do," George added in, and he then pulled Xavier aside. Fair enough, either way, I'm intrigued to see what they got me…

"All right then, let's see what you've got me," Xavier relented, and the twins grinned.

"That's the spirit," Fred encouraged.

"Follow us," George stated, and the twins began to guide Xavier to their room. Out of all the rooms in the Burrow, the twins may have the most interesting room and I haven't even been in there!

The sight of the twins' room quickly aligned with Xavier's belief. As Xavier entered it, he marvelled the inside as the room almost reminded him of a lab where different experiments were conducted. Ron was right… these two probably invent their own things…

Several posters of famous pranksters, Quidditch players, and beautiful witches were hammered to the Gryffindor-themed walls. There seemed to be a lot of boxes hidden underneath the twins' beds, and their desks were loaded with different items such as cauldron parts, several old books, toy figurines, and Xavier had the faintest notion that there were secret spots in this room, hiding the twins' secret stash of unknown items that they have procured.

Xavier walked over to the desk and picked up what seemed to be a figurine of a dragon, most likely the Hungarian Horntail.

"Ah, I see that you are inspecting one of our latest test subjects," Fred spoke, resembling Percy's formal voice.

"Test subject, eh?' Xavier questioned interestedly.

"Indeed," George continued, following Fred's example. "Basically, we've been trying to make toy dragons that can guard any item you want." That's… rather intriguing…

"How so?" Xavier asked.

"Dunno, maybe an activation spell that propels the dragon to guard an item if someone else comes near it," Fred replied, and Xavier smirked. That would be cool…

"So, you two really create your own things, huh?" Xavier asked, gazing around the room. The twins smirked proudly and shrugged.

"Maybe we do," Geroge started.

"Maybe we don't," Fred ended.

"Well, I reckon that idea would be pretty wicked, but then again, I've always had an interest towards animals like dragons and dinosaurs," Xavier admitted, and the twins shot him a confused look.

"What's a dinosaur?" George asked curiously.

"Just think of it as a creature that looked like a dragon, but probably couldn't breathe fire," Xavier summarised, and the twins nodded slowly. Too intricate to get into all the details…

"Anyway, here you go, lad," Fred said, ripping Xavier out from his thoughts. Fred then tossed something to Xavier and the dark-skinned boy caught it and examined it.

"Filibuster Fireworks that can be set off by water," Fred explained with a grin.

"From our own stash to be precise," George added in, and Xavier grinned at them.

"Thanks, guys, this will be definitely cool to try out," Xavier said, and the twins smirked at him.

"Sure thing, Xavier, just don't tell Perce, and make sure to set it off in the Slytherin Common Room," Fred advised, and Xavier nodded firmly.

"That'll make them slimy snakes shake!" George exclaimed with a laugh.

"Have you forgotten that I'm a 'slimy snake' too?" Xavier asked with a smirk, and Fred waved a hand.

"Besides you and Ronnie, of course," Fred cleared up. And our friends too…

"Thanks, guys, I honestly don't deserve this," Xavier said in gratitude, and the twins shrugged.

"You got us something for our birthday, so we owed you one for yours as well," George stated in fairness.

"Now, run along, George and I must get back to our chores or mum will have our hides," Fred suggested, and Xavier nodded firmly.

After Xavier placed the special fireworks in his trunk, he proceeded back down the stairs and entered the living room to find Ginny and Luna watching Ron play a chess match.

"Hey, girls," Xavier spoke, garnering their attention.

"Oh, good morning, Xavier," Ginny and Luna replied simultaneously, and they then smiled widely.

"Happy birthday!" they chorused, and Xavier couldn't help but ruffle their hair. I love these people!

"Look at what Gin and I made you," Luna pulled out a type of necklace which had beer cork as a pedant and various flowers surrounded the cork. Even these two made me something…

Xavier took it with a mildly surprised look and then looked to Ron for an explanation. Ron simply grinned and shrugged.

"The butterbeer cork keeps away the Nargles," Luna whispered in a mysterious voice, and Xavier was simply dumbfounded.

"What's a Nargle?" Xavier queried curiously, and both Ron and Ginny shook their heads. Ah, must be one of Luna's secret wonders…

"Either way, thank you, girls… this is um… you really didn't have to make it for me," Xavier spoke truthfully, and Ginny smiled brightly in satisfaction.

"It's no problem, Xavier, I find it rather fun to make these necklaces," Luna responded solemnly, and she then leaned closer to Xavier. "You don't have to wear it if you believe that it will look bizarre."

Xavier simply blinked at her, while Luna turned around and wandered into the kitchen, humming to herself. He missed Ron and Ginny stifling their laughter at his stunned face. She is rather perceptive… definitely a Ravenclaw like her parents…

Xavier looked back down at the necklace and gripped it tightly. He decided that he didn't care if the necklace was rather outlandish, the idea of the two girls making him a gift was what counted, and Xavier put the necklace on. Ginny beamed at him, and Xavier chuckled.

"Are you excited to go to Hogwarts, Gin?" Xavier asked as he sat down next to her to watch Ron's game.

"Yes, I can't wait to finally go and do magic!" Ginny responded ecstatically.

"Going to be a Gryffindor, eh?" Xavier joked, already knowing the answer.

"Yes," Ginny puffed up proudly, and then she replaced her honoured look with a thoughtful one. "But if I don't get into Gryffindor… maybe I can go to Slytherin, so I could be with you two…"

Ron instantaneously looked up from his game and exchanged a quick look with Xavier. Yeah, let's hope not… Ron has faced way too many insults and sneers from people in Slytherin for his blood status… Only, God knows what would happen to Ginny…

"Please, Ginny, whatever you do, don't ask the Hat to put you in Slytherin," Ron urged, his eyes now focusing solely on Ginny instead of the game.

"The Hat?" Ginny asked in confusion, and her eyes then widened. "Does a hat put you into one of the Houses?"

"I believe you have spoiled her the Sorting Ceremony," Xavier chuckled, and Ron rolled his eyes.

"But… but… Fred and George told me that you have to kiss a Troll and eat a piece of a broomstick to get sorted…" Ginny mumbled, blushing vibrantly. Xavier burst into laughter, while Ron frowned heavily. Kiss a Troll and eat a piece of a broomstick? What the bloody hell?! HAHAHAHA!

"Those gits…" Ron muttered while Xavier could feel tears swelling up in his eyes. Merlin, I haven't laughed like this in so long… maybe in forever…

"That's hilarious," Xavier wheezed, and he then looked to Ginny with a calm look as he steadied himself with a deep breath. "The twins were joking, of course, Gin. The Sorting Hat will decide where you'll be placed."

Ginny looked extremely relieved and smiled exuberantly. "I have to go tell Luna!"

Ginny then disappeared into the kitchen, and Xavier looked back to Ron. His red-haired friend held a slightly worried look on his face.

"What's wrong, mate?" Xavier asked.

"Mate… Ginny cannot come to Slytherin," Ron started, looking dead serious. "If she does, who knows how many people will bully her-"

"It won't happen, mate. She's a Gryffindor through and through, and besides, if she did end up in Slytherin, she'll have us and our friends. Have you forgotten that we also have the older students' respect?" Xavier reminded firmly, and Ron sighed.

"I guess you're right… Maybe I'm worrying too much…" Ron murmured to himself.

"As an older brother should, I guess," Xavier reassured. I've got no siblings, so I can't say much…

At that exact moment, Bruno flew in and dropped a letter on Ron's lap before electing to land on Xavier's shoulder.

"What is it?" Xavier questioned, whilst stroking the brown and golden owl's beak.

"It's Hermione's reply," Ron answered, looking up at Xavier. "She's given me Harry's address!"

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

The Burrow - Monday, July 21st,1992 (3 a.m.)

Ron sent a nod to Xavier, signalling him that it was time for them to go rescue Harry. The two silently crept down the stairs, cautiously avoiding the creaks in specific floorboards, and successfully reached the living room.

Xavier reached the front door, opened it, and slipped outside into the night and before Ron could follow suit, a voice stopped him.

"Ronnie? Xavier?" came a voice from behind Ron, and he nearly jumped in fright. Bloody hell!

Ron slowly turned around and found George staring at him with his jaw hanging wide open, whilst holding a glass of water. Oh shite…

"Oh hey, George, what are you doing?" Ron asked, chuckling nervously. George simply cocked an eyebrow and stared at him.

"Ok look, George," Ron started, gulping slightly. "Xavier and I were planning to sneak out, but only to go get Harry. He's staying with his muggle family, and they treat him like shite! We can't let him stay there."

"Yeah, tell the whole world, will you?" George remarked, shaking his head at Ron's loud tone. Ron's face turned red. Shite, someone could have heard that! What's wrong with you, Ron?

"Why didn't you two come to me and Fred?" Geroge asked. "He and I could assist you two-"

"No, it would look too suspicious for all four of us to be out of the house and I don't want you two get into trouble if we get caught," Ron cut in and he then shot his older brother a pleading look. "Please, George, don't tell anyone."

"And all this time, Fred and I thought that you were more like Percy," George replied, smirking proudly at Ron. "Go get him, Ronnie."

"Thanks, George," Ron responded with relief, smiling gratefully and he then slipped out of the house, while George locked the door quietly.

Ron glanced at the moon that shone like a bright pearl and ventured down to the shed, trying to ignore the cold air that made him shiver. Bloody hell, it's cold…

"What happened?" Xavier questioned as Ron stepped into the shed.

"Oh, I just got caught up in something, that's all," Ron replied, shrugging to himself, and he then gazed at the light blue Ford Anglia.

"Let's do this," Ron said, and his best mate nodded firmly. Ron then hopped into the driver's seat, while Xavier took the seat next to him and he then shot Ron an uncertain look.

"Are you sure you know how to drive this thing?" Xavier asked.

"I've watched Fred and George take it for a spin plenty of times, mate. Besides, how hard could it be?" Ron replied, and with the turn of a key, the car's ignition started, and Ron reversed it out from the shed easily. Ron pushed one of the buttons that enabled the car to fly. The car lifted itself into the air and once Ron pushed the invisibility booster, they set off into the night.

"This is amazing, mate!" Xavier exclaimed, popping his head out of the window, and feeling the cool rush of wind as they glided through the sky. Ron's stomach did flip with excitement, and he broke into a wide smile that reached both ears. This is already really fun!

"All right, should we go over the plan once more?" Xavier asked, as he faced Ron and the redhead nodded.

"So basically, you'll land the car in either the driveway or on the street, it really doesn't matter. Once we get inside the house, I'll chat with the muggles, while you'll go get Harry. It'll be better that way as they might call the police and I'll have to intervene by pulling my wand out to scare them," Xavier explained their little 'heist', and Ron shot him a confused look.

"What's the police?" Ron asked intriguingly.

"Never mind," Xavier waved his question aside. "How far do we have left?"

"Not sure, but we're in London now," Ron answered, and both boys took in the breathtaking sight below them. The city was filled with an innumerable amount of lights, colouring the city's buildings, cars and so much more.

"All right, we're going to Surrey, so take a sharp left from here," Xavier instructed, and Ron obliged.

By the time they reached Surrey, a good forty minutes had passed by. Ron landed the car with a slight bump, to which he shot Xavier an apologetic look. The two hopped out from the car and studied the destination they had arrived at. Privet Drive appeared as a normal suburb with houses that replicated each other. Each house had a neat front lawn and a brick chimney on the top of the roof.

Xavier nudged Ron and pointed towards the house in front of them.

"That's number 4 Privet Drive. That's the one," Xavier supplied, and Ron nodded. Ron wouldn't admit it, but he began to feel a slight feeling of apprehension brewing in his stomach. Ron hadn't been near muggles before and wasn't sure if they were incredibly different from his kind, especially with the knowledge of how Harry's muggle family treated them.

"Relax, mate," Xavier reassured, rolling his eyes. "Muggles are humans just like us, but only can't do magic. Don't sweat it, and plus, I'll be the one interrogating the muggles." Yeah, calm down, Ron… Xavier already told you that Muggles and Wizards are all human… we all share the same emotions…

"I guess you're right," Ron replied after a few seconds, but something caught his attention. One of the windows on the second storey of the house was barred with metal bars and Ron felt a sense of dread descend upon them. There's no way that's Harry's room…

"What is it, mate?" Xavier questioned, and he then followed Ron's frozen gaze. Judging by Xavier's reaction, Ron knew that his best mate shared the same thoughts as he did.

"That better not be where Harry's fucking staying," Xavier growled, and the two then marched down to the house, and Xavier rapidly knocked on the door. Time to save Harry…

After a moment, loud footsteps came tumbling from inside the home, but the owners didn't open the door to invite Ron and Xavier.

"Who's there? Leave or I'll shoot you!" came the yell of a man, and Ron froze. SHOOT?! SHOOT WHAT?!

Ron shot Xavier an alarmed look, however, Xavier merely shrugged it off and said, "Empty threats."

"Open up or we'll be forced to retaliate," Xavier demanded, giving the muggles an ultimatum. Ron stuck his hand into his pocket and gripped his wand tightly.

The door then opened, revealing a wary, fat man with barely any neck and a terrified, skinny woman with bony features. Are these Harry's aunt and uncle? Merlin, they're a weird pair…

"Who are you?" the fat man immediately interrogated, while his wife stared at the two boys with a look of trepidation.

"We're here to save Harry from you pricks," Xavier snarled vindictively, making the two muggles shocked. They then slowly recovered from their momentary bewilderment, and the fat man scowled, while the woman sneered.

"The boy will not go anywhere with you freaks!" the woman spat out, and Ron frowned heavily at them. What absolute twats!

"Now leave the premise or I will call the police!" the man added in, glaring hatefully at the two boys. Again, what's the police?

Xavier then drew his wand and directed it straight at the two muggles and the temperature seemed to have dropped tremendously.

"Threaten us again and your precious 'Diddykins' will watch you burn in fire," Xavier admonished maliciously and both muggles' eyebrows shot to the roof in disbelief. Bloody hell, Xavier is one scary bastard, I'll give him that.

"Vernon, just let them do it," The woman whispered urgently to the man. The man opened his mouth, ready to disagree, but closed it with a defeated look.

"Ron, go get Harry," Xavier ordered, staring at the muggles with cold fury. Ron nodded and made his way around the two muggles, adamantly disregarding them. Ron first opened the cupboard under the stairs as Harry had told him that the cupboard was his bedroom.

Ron was simply flabbergasted. Harry wasn't sleeping there, thank Merlin, but Ron took in the small size of the cupboard, and he felt himself become downright livid. How could those muggles let their own blood sleep in some tiny cupboard for his childhood?

Instead, a familiar trunk was stationed inside the cupboard, and Ron recognised it to be Harry's school trunk. These muggles didn't even let him read his textbooks or do his homework… bloody scumbags…

Ron shook his head and shut the cupboard door before walking up the carpeted stairs. Ron reached the hallway and quietly travelled down to the last room and to his absolute horror, the door was locked from the outside. If this is Harry's room, I will tear everything here apart…

A frightened squeak came from behind Ron, and he whipped around, only to find a fat boy in dark blue pajamas staring at him with wide eyes. So, this is the infamous Dudley… not so strong looking are you, eh?

Ron glared at the fat prick and pointed his wand at him. The boy looked like he was on the verge of tears and Ron almost found it difficult to believe that this was the same boy that bullied Harry consistently throughout his life.

"Dudley's the name, isn't it?" Ron asked coldly, and Dudley nodded shakily.

"I want you to go find me the key that will open this door. You see, my friend and I have come to your home to rescue one of our closest friends and I believe that if we don't retrieve him, there will be severe… punishments…" Dudley's eyes widened at the last word, and he nodded fervently. Bloody hell, I almost sounded like Snape!

"O-of c-course, j-just p-please d-don't h-hurt m-me…" Dudley begged, and Ron sneered at him.

"Go. Get. The. Key," Ron ordered harshly, and he pushed Dudley to propel him into action. The fat boy then scurried away and came back with a silver key. Ron snatched it and glared at Dudley.

"Now, sod off you fat cunt," Ron growled, and the boy turned pink at Ron's insult and hurried away, terrified of earning more wrath from the delirious redhead.

Ron looked back to the bedroom door and slid the key into the keyhole. Ron turned the key to the right once, and the door opened with a creak. As Ron locked inside, he noted that the windows were barred and that pissed off Ron endlessly. No wonder Harry couldn't send any letters!

Hedwig was in her cage, and she hooted warmly when her large eyes fell on the redhead. Ron smiled at the snowy owl and walked over to stroke her feathers. Ron then found Harry sleeping peacefully in his bed, and Ron sighed in relief. He approached the sleeping Harry and patted the boy's arm. The boy-who-lived groggily opened his eyes and searched for his glasses, to which Ron delivered. Once the scrawny boy put his glasses on, he stared at Ron with surprise.

"Ron?" Harry croaked, and Ron flinched at the boy's weak tone.

"Hey, mate. We've come to rescue you," Ron replied gently, and Harry looked confused.

"We? Rescue? What's going on, Ron?" Harry questioned, shivering from the cold temperature in the room.

"I'll explain to you once we get out of here. Come on, mate," Ron responded. Harry tiredly got out of bed and Ron clenched his teeth when he saw how skinny Harry still looked. They probably starved him… twits…

As Harry put his jacket on, he looked to Ron with a smile and hugged him tightly. Ron awkwardly returned it, whilst patting his back.

"I'm glad you came," Harry said, and Ron smiled more fully.

"We couldn't just leave you here alone now could we, mate?" Ron replied with a chuckle, and Hedwig hooted from Ron's left.

"Bring Hedwig with you," Ron said, and Harry carried Hedwig in his cage as the duo walked down the stairs. They caught the sight of the two muggles, now joined by their son, all simultaneously stepping away from Xavier.

"Xavier! Is that really you?" Harry exclaimed, walking down the stairs more hastily now.

"It is mate. Let's get out here, shall we?" Xavier suggested, his cold, black eyes boring into the shaking muggles.

"I'll get your trunk, mate," Ron informed Harry, and Harry nodded. Ron opened the cupboard and grabbed Harry's trunk, ignoring the scandalized muttering from the muggles.

Ron shut the cupboard and carried Harry's trunk with him, whilst Harry followed behind closely with Hedwig and two stood behind Xavier, who still held his wand at the muggles. Xavier then smirked coldly in triumph.

"This is the last time you abusive maggots will see Harry," Xavier snarled viciously, and the muggles gulped visibly. Ron glared coldly at the muggles and Harry simply stared blankly at them.

"Let's go, Xavier," Ron recommended, and the dark-skinned boy followed the redhead and raven-haired boy out the door.

"Well, that's that," Xavier said as he shut the door, and Harry quickly placed Hedwig's cage on the porch, before embracing Xavier tightly.

"I thought you died…" Harry mumbled sadly, sniffling to himself.

"I'm all right, mate, I promise you," Xavier said firmly, and the two released each other.

"Let's get going," Ron suggested, and Harry freed Hedwig into the air, before facing the prodigy duo with a furrowed brow.

"How will we go?" Harry inquired, and Ron then pointed to the light blue Ford Anglia parked a few meters away.

"You guys drove here?" Harry asked incredulously.

"Nope, we flew here," Xavier replied with a smirk, and he gestured Harry to follow him and Ron.

Ron took the driver's seat once again, Xavier took the passenger seat, and Harry sat in the back seat along with his trunk and Hedwig's cage.

Ron started the car and flicked the invisibility booster on once more before taking off into the starry night sky. Ron grinned as he viewed Harry's awe-filled look in the front mirror.

"Magnificent, isn't it?" Ron said, and Harry was too star-struck to even answer. After five minutes, Ron decided it was time to debrief Harry about everything.

"Harry, why the hell were there bars on your windows, and why was your bedroom door locked from the outside?" Ron questioned with a serious expression.

"What?!" Xavier exclaimed. Harry sighed tiredly and scratched his untamed black hair.

"I ruined one of Uncle Vernon's parties and they locked me up for a few days-"

"A few days?" Ron interjected, exchanging a look of disbelief with Xavier. "A few bloody days?!"

"Mate, that's preposterous!" Xavier spat out, truly disgusted with the muggles.

"It's fine, guys," Harry reassured, though he didn't look convinced himself.

"No wonder he couldn't get any letters!" Xavier pointed out to Ron and Ron nodded vigorously.

"No, I never got any letters in the first place," Harry admitted.

"They hid your letters as well?!" Ron gaped in shock.

"No, some House-Elf had them all along," Harry answered.

"A House-Elf?" Xavier questioned, and Ron cocked an eyebrow. Why the hell would some bloody House-Elf keep Harry's letters?

"Only rich and old families can acquire House-Elves and it's quite prestigious to have some," Ron informed, thinking of a few Pure-Blood families who definitely had House-Elves. Like Daphne's family…

"What did it want?" Xavier asked slowly.

"He was making sure to intercept my letters… He warned me to not coming back to Hogwarts…" Harry replied, shuddering slightly.

"A warning?" Xavier muttered to himself with his brow furrowed heavily.

"Yeah… it said that terrible things were going to happen at Hogwarts…" Harry spoke. Ron and Xavier looked at each other with slightly wide eyes. What terrible things?!

"For fuck sake, we've already gone through one eventful year," Xavier pointed out with annoyance, and Ron just prayed to Merlin that the Elf had only been pulling Harry's leg. Both Ginny and Luna were attending Hogwarts this year and Ron would be damned if something happened to either of them.

"It doesn't matter because Hogwarts is my home and I'm going to be there!" Harry stated with a tone of finality, and both Slytherins beamed proudly at the Gryffindor.

"Bloody yes, mate!" Ron exclaimed, and the trio laughed and conversed with each other as Ron drove them all back to the Burrow. Tinges of pink and yellow were starting to appear in the distant horizon and they knew that sooner or later, Ron's mother would be awake.

Ron parked the car into the shed more smoothly this time, and the three boys closed the car doors as softly as they could. Ron carried Harry's trunk, Xavier held Hedwig's cage, and Harry looked around in wonder.

"Let's go," Ron whispered to them. We've gotten this far… hopefully, mum won't be awake…

Ron crept towards the front door with Xavier and Harry on his tail, and the red-haired boy opened the door. He poked his head inside and his eyes searched every nook and cranny of the house, before sighing in relief. No one's awake yet. Thank bloody Merlin.

Ron, Xavier, and Harry then hobbled into the Burrow and Harry shut the front door behind him.

"Let's go upstairs," Ron suggested. As they reached the first step, a voice stopped them.

"RONALD BILIUS WEASLEY!" came the deafening screech of Ron's mother and Ron gulped severely. Oh no… Oh no, no, no…

The trio turned around and held their breath as they found Ron's mother, Pandora, Sirius, and Xeno near the doorway into the kitchen. His mother was shaking with rage, Pandora and Xeno were in disbelief, and Sirius's jaw had dropped to the floor.

"Young man, where have you been?!" His mother shrieked and her voice seemed to reach a higher octave with every word. "Beds empty, no note, car missing, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?!"

Ron gaped widely, Xavier looked at anywhere but Mrs. Weasley and Harry had paled with fear.

"We…" Ron started slowly, his tone coming out weak and shaky. "We went to get Harry… his muggle family were mistreating him and-"

"And you thought that it was a good idea to blatantly take Xavier and take your father's car in the dead of the night?!" Ron's mother cut him off, looking ready to pull her own hair out.

"Please, Mrs. Weasley, Ron didn't take me. I wanted to come with him so that we could rescue Harry," Xavier cleared up immediately. Mrs. Weasley rubbed her forehead in exasperation, and she then turned on the shell-shocked Sirius.

"Was this your doing?" Molly asked scrutinizingly. "Did you ask my boys to go do you a favour and rescue Harry?"

"Mum, we made this choice!" Ron stepped in firmly, feeling a little braver. "It was my idea to go and fetch Harry. We told no one at all and we were careful, so no one saw us in a flying car. We had to get Harry from there because those muggles treat him like dirt! They even put bars on his windows!"

His mother stared back with a slightly less angry look, and she then huffed loudly.

"You could have gotten hurt! And your father could have been facing an inquiry at work if anyone saw that wretched flying car!" his mother continued her scolding, her voice still monstrous. Ron didn't even realize that he was shaking from fear. "Or maybe Xavier could have passed out from exhaustion! You should best pray that I don't put bars on your window, Ronald Weasley!"

"Molly, the kids are fine," Pandora cut in, speaking for the first time, noticing Ron's frightened movements. "They must be starving, let's make breakfast."

Ron's mother stared at the three boys and her expression changed almost instantaneously. She nodded gruffly and disappeared into kitchens. Thank Merlin for Pandora…

Ron shot Pandora a look of appreciation, but Pandora didn't share his sentiment. Instead, she shook her head at both Ron and Xavier and asked pleadingly, "Why did you boys do that? You two have gotten hurt-"

"Love, let's all talk about this later, all right? What's done is done," Xeno interjected, rubbing his wife's arm soothingly. "A good cup of tea will make us all better." Never mind, thank Merlin for Xeno…

Pandora simply sighed and obliged her husband's request and disappeared into the kitchens. Xeno shot a quick glance at Sirius and followed his wife.

"Sirius?" Harry asked softly, his emerald, green eyes widened at seeing his godfather for the first time.

"My godson," Sirius spoke, and the two embraced each other tightly. Ron and Xavier smiled in accomplishment and fist-bumped each other. We did it!

Sirius let go of Harry's face and inspected every inch of the boy-who-lived. Sirius frowned at how emaciated his godson was and he cursed at the muggles under his breath.

Sirius then looked towards the two Slytherins and pulled them into a hug as well. Ron and Xavier turned beet-red as they weren't expecting such a move from Sirius. Sirius then released them with a disapproving frown and flicked their foreheads.

"Ow, what was that for?!" Ron groaned, rubbing the irritated place in his forehead.

"That's for being so stupid and going off without me," Sirius replied, and he then smiled his usual easy smile at his saviours. "You two really are something else, aren't you?"

"If that's your way of thanking us, we'll take it," Xavier responded with a smirk, and Sirius chuckled.

"Come on lads, let's go eat," Sirius said, smiling proudly at them all; he hadn't looked so bright and jubilant before.

Sirius Black's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Monday, July 21st,1992 (6 a.m.)

The palpable tension within the kitchens was enough for Sirius to snatch his godson and depart the Burrow immediately. Molly was still fuming as she prepared breakfast, often muttering to herself about the dangers Ron and Xavier had placed themselves in. Pandora was not happy either and she had lost her usual airy and soft demeanor. Xeno kept shooting concerned glances to his wife and was trying to make positive conversation occur throughout the table. Harry looked slightly afraid and even a little guilty, probably because he believed to have played a role in Ron getting berated and reprimanded. Sirius shot a wink at Harry and the boy slowly smiled back. He looks so much like James! Xavier was sitting quietly, obstinately ignoring the tension after taking his daily potion intake, whilst Ron was glowing in shame.

Sirius had decided to come to the Burrow to take Xavier and Ron out to Diagon Alley as he and Remus had missed Xavier's birthday and were already planning on buying a couple of things for the two boys. And now to say that Sirius was bewildered that the two boys had gone, and rescued Sirius' godson was an understatement. Sirius smiled lovingly at the two Slytherin boys; they had used some true Gryffindor courage to rescue their friend and only because of them, Sirius was able to look his godson in the eye and breath properly, knowing that Harry was far away from those despicable muggles.

"Here you go, dear," Molly's gentle voice brought Sirius back to reality, and he smiled reassuringly at Harry who stared at the immense amount of food with wide eyes. He needs to eat more… Damn Petunia and Vernon to hell!

Molly placed her mouth-watering food onto a plate for Xavier, and when she passed the plate of food for Ron, she did it with a slight frown. Sirius grinned to himself; Molly didn't seem to be mad so much anymore and Sirius decided to make some conversation to end the horrible tension that was still lingering around.

"Harry, what happened?" Sirius asked, leaning in and his godson faced him. "You didn't return any of your friends' letters."

"He couldn't," Ron answered for him, shooting a look at his mum's back. "Apparently he ruined some dinner party, and he was punished by getting locked up in his room."

"What?!" Sirius snarled, his anger returning immediately.

"For how long?" Xeno asked with a shocked expression.

"For a couple of days," Xavier answered, frowning to himself.

"It wasn't that bad," Harry started, but Ron rolled his eyes.

"Mate, they put bloody bars on your window and all of your stuff was locked in a cupboard under the stairs!" Ron exclaimed, not even noticing that he swore in front of his mum.

"Those imbeciles! I swear when I get my hands on them…" Sirius growled dangerously, and even Molly had turned around in disbelief.

"They really put bars on your window, dear?" Molly asked slowly. Harry nodded and Molly's resolve seemed to have weakened considerably.

"Please, Sirius, don't do anything to them! I don't want you to go to Azkaban again," Harry beseeched, and Sirius's furious expression was replaced with one of gentle assurance.

"I know, Harry, I promise I won't," Sirius pledged, and he reached over and squeezed his godson's hand tightly.

"As for his letters, some House-Elf stole them all, Sirius," Ron informed, and everyone's brow furrowed deeply. "Apparently the Elf warned Harry that some horrific things were going to unfold at Hogwarts."

"Horrific things?" Pandora questioned, while Molly looked frightened.

"Yeah, the House-Elf told Harry to not go back to Hogwarts," Xavier answered. A House-Elf, eh? Could it be the Malfoy's? Maybe…

The Burrow – Monday, July 21st,1992 (7 a.m.)

After finishing their breakfast, Ron and Xavier had tiredly retired to their beds, exhausted from their little mission and Harry had joined them. Arthur had decided to skip work and retrieve Albus Dumbledore so that Sirius could explain the details and hopefully earn the rightful title as custodian for Harry. None of the other children had awoken yet, and Sirius was joined by Molly, Xeno, and Pandora in the living room.

The fire blazed green and Remus came through it with a questioning look.

"Is Harry really here?" Remus asked immediately, and Sirius grinned as he nodded.

"Would you like something to eat, Remus?" Molly asked, no doubt trying to busy herself rather than reflect on the events and revelations she had witnessed.

"No, Molly, it's fine," Remus replied with a small smile, and Sirius noticed the usual paleness Remus was gaining as the end of the month was approaching them soon.

"So, it's true then?" Remus asked, looking at Sirus. "Did Petunia and Vernon lock Harry in his room?"

"Yes, Remus, it's true," Pandora answered woefully, while Sirius's veins popped alarmingly. Sirius would forever hold a vendetta towards those muggles. Those cunts…

"It doesn't matter anymore," Sirus spoke firmly. "Because today, I'll get my legal custody of my godson."

As if right on cue, Arthur entered the living room via the fireplace, followed by Albus. Molly greeted Albus, smiling proudly that the eminent wizard was in her home.

"Are you feeling peckish, headmaster?" Xeno questioned, and Albus chuckled at the man's keen awareness.

"I am indeed, Xenophilius. However, I believe I am here on important matters," Albus responded, taking his gaze to Sirius and Remus.

Sirius then regaled the events that took place in the early hours. Albus' facial expressions were like moments in a Quidditch game. One moment, he was in awe at the risk-taking attitude Xavier and Ron held when they rescued Harry and in other moments, his expression was melancholic and guilty when hearing about how Harry was treated by his muggle family.

"I see," Albus spoke softly after Sirius was done.

"So?" Sirius asked rather impatiently, tapping his foot anxiously. "Is that all you need to give me my godson?"

"Sirius," Remus warned, but Sirus ignored him.

"Perhaps you are right, Sirius," Albus started, and he looked apologetic. Um, what's this?

"I am truly sorry that I denied your right to house and protect your godson," Albus apologised sincerely, and he looked like he was truly miserable, something that almost made Sirius pitiful himself. "It seems that I have been failing my students left and right…"

"You blame yourself for Xavier and Ronald, don't you headmaster?" Pandora asked gently. Sirius just stared at her. How the hell is she so insightful?

"Indeed, my dear girl," Albus replied softly. Everyone looked slightly awkward, and no one knew what to say. Molly was lost for words, Arthur looked tired, Xeno and Pandora studied the headmaster's expression more deeply, and Remus simply sighed before clearing his throat.

"Sirius and I have been clearing out 12 Grimmauld Place," Remus piped in, changing the subject. "It'll be a good place for Harry to grow up in."

"That's a great idea, my dear boy," Albus encouraged, and Sirius shot Remus a smile. "Harry may live with you two. James and Lily wouldn't agree more." I know…

"Thank you, headmaster," Sirius responded, sighing in relief and a burden had been removed from his shoulders. It felt like Sirius had come out on top and had won an ongoing battle. He could finally be the true godfather James had bestowed upon him to be for Harry and together with Remus, they could live a better life in each other's presence.

Sirius whistled cheerfully to himself as he walked up the stairs, but he stopped when he saw Harry waiting near the door to Ron and Xavier's shared room.

"Hey, Harry, what are you doing out here?" Sirius asked as he approached his godson.

"I couldn't sleep after everything that happened," Harry answered, and he then shot a nervous look to his godfather. "Did Professor Dumbledore give you custody?"

"Yes, he did," Sirius replied immediately, and Harry beamed with excitement. The two embraced each other, and Sirius didn't want to let go of his godson. I'll never let anyone hurt you…

"Wait, was he angry?" Harry suddenly asked, looking fearful at irritating the headmaster that he looked up to as a role model. Sirius blinked at Harry and then chuckled. You are the reincarnation of James and Lily!

"No, he was rather… sad…" Sirius answered, sighing to himself softly. Seeing the headmaster look so remorseful was quite hard for some odd reason.

"Oh ok, then. I wanted to come down and see you, but I didn't want to interrupt anything. Ron and Xavier were already asleep once they got into their beds," Harry supplied, and Sirius smiled gratefully. My two saviours…

"Those two are the reason this all happened," Sirius pointed out; he was definitely going to spoil his two saviours with gifts. Caesar, I wish you were here to see your son…

"Harry," Sirius said, suddenly remembering something. He reached into the right pocket of his robes and pulled out two items.

"I want you to have these," Sirius said, gesturing Harry to take them.

"Wow," Harry gasped in awe as he examined the golden snitch and the pair of glasses.

"Your father always used to take out this snitch and play with it when he saw your mother," Sirius provided, smirking to himself. "And these were his glasses."

Harry looked at the objects and then looked back up at Sirius with brimming tears. His godson then wrapped his bony arms around Sirius and Sirius held his godson tightly to his chest.

"Thank you, Sirius," Harry sniffed, and Sirius kissed his godson's forehead.

"Remus and I will take good care of you, I promise," Sirius whispered back. I promise to you too, James and Lily… I promise…

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Tuesday, July 22nd,1992 (7 a.m.)

Ron, Xavier, and Harry had slept all throughout Monday and thus, woke up quite early on Tuesday, no doubt from the ever-growing growling hunger and dying need of thirst.

"Good morning, boys," Ron's mother greeted happily as the trio all sat by the table. She then passed Xavier his usual potion intake and hummed to herself. Hmm, she doesn't seem mad anymore…

Ron's mother had already spent the whole of Monday reflecting and reviewing Ron's actions and she couldn't blame him anymore. Sure, she found it incredibly foolish that Ron put himself and Xavier in danger by flying a car all around London, however, after hearing everything about the muggle's disgusting and atrocious actions towards Harry, she felt grateful and even a little proud of her Ronnie and Xavier taking a risky stride to rescue their friend from that place.

"Here you go, love," Ron's mother provided, placing the sizzling bacon and delicious eggs onto Ron's plate. Ron beamed at his mother and immediately divulged into his food like a ravenous beast, missing Harry's horror-struck look. Xavier merely chuckled as he was used to this norm from Ron.

They then heard footsteps come down the stairs, and in came all of Ron's siblings. Within the immediate realization of seeing Harry sitting next to Ron, Ginny gasped in pure awe, Luna smiled brightly, Percy looked mildly surprised, and the twins grinned like the Cheshire cat.

"So, it's true then," Percy spoke, sitting across from Xavier. "Harry is really in our home."

"So, you two really went out to drive dad's car…" Fred started with an impressed look.

"And you two then flew to Harry's home…" George continued, grinning at Ron and Xavier. Ron could already see his mother scowling a bit.

"And rescued him and brought him back?!" The twins ended together, and Ron glared at the twins, while Xavier smacked his own forehead. MUM IS RIGHT THERE YOU BLOOD IDIOTS!

"Yeah, I guess we did," Xavier answered with a mumble, but everyone heard him clearly. The twins then cheered, which caught Ron off guard.

"Utterly brilliant," the twins chorused, and the tips of Ron's ears became red.

"Utterly mad, if you ask me," Percy voiced his opinion, frowning at the two Slytherins. Ginny shared his sentiment as she didn't want to see Ron nor Xavier get hurt, but she felt forever jubilant that they brought Harry to her home.

"What are muggles like?" Luna asked in interest, smoothly changing the subject.

"Well, they can't do magic-" Ron paused when he realized how stupid he just sounded.

"Obviously, silly," Luna giggled. "What are they like in their natural habitats?"

Xavier and Harry both exchanged glances before chuckling to themselves.

"They're not animals, love," came Pandora's voice from behind Luna, and everyone faced the beautiful woman. "They're just like us, but without magic, so they live different lives from us."

"They have different jobs and lifestyles, but we all speak the same tongues and share the same human skin, features, and emotions," Xavier added in, and Pandora nodded with his statement.

"Oh… ok," Luna responded, her eyes focused on the windows for some reason, and she then looked at Harry.

"It is nice to see you again, Harry," Luna greeted, and she held out her hand. Harry shook it with a smile and turned to Ginny.

"Nice to see you, Ginny," Harry said, and Ginny's face instantaneously flushed.

"Good to… see you a-again, Harry…" Ginny greeted with a bright blush, her cheeks rosy. Fred and George immediately took the mickey out of her, while Ron and Harry looked puzzled. Is she… scared of Harry? Well, to be honest, I guess anyone would, especially since he defeated the Dark Lord when he was just a baby…

At that moment, the front door opened, revealing Ron's dad, Xeno, Remus, and Sirius and as they walked in, Sirius and Xeno smiled simultaneously at the sight.

"Smell amazing in here," Sirius complimented, eyeing the food that Ron's mother had prepared.

"Breakfast is ready," Ron's mum supplied, gesturing the four men to join the kids at the table. Ron looked around with a happy expression and mentally patted himself on the back.

"Do you want any help with those, mum?" Ron asked, eyeing the dishes piled up beside the sink. His mother blinked at him before chuckling to herself and she flicked her wand, propelling a scrub to clean the plates instead. Oh right… I forget that we have magic…

"That was kind of you to ask, love," His mother spoke. "What did you really want to speak about."

Ron sighed to himself, and he then asked, "Are you still… mad at me?"

His mother's smile was replaced with a sympathetic look and she patted her youngest son's cheek.

"No, Ronnie, I'm not anymore," his mother admitted, and Ron almost broke into a smile. I was right, she's not mad anymore!

"Although, it was very stupid of you to take Xavier and drive around in the night," his mother pointed out with a stern tone.

"I know, mum, I'm sorry for making you and Pandora and Xeno and everyone else scared," Ron apologised, and his mother smiled softly at him.

She then reached into her pocket and pulled out two items. Ron analyzed them immediately and found himself in awe at the golden ring and the silver chain. The ring had the Prewett name encrusted on it and the chain's pendant, though slightly wore out, shone brightly in the reflection of the sunlight.

"I want you to have these…" his mother spoke, and Ron looked up to see his mother was tearing up. What's wrong?

"Mum… are you all, right?" Ron asked slowly, and his mother nodded vigorously.

"This ring belonged to your Uncle Fabian and this chain belonged to your Uncle Gideon," Ron's mother supplied, and Ron felt the wind get knocked out of his sails. Is she… is she going to give me these?

"You've kept these the whole time, haven't you?" Ron questioned, and his mother nodded.

"But I want you to have these," Ron's mother said, and she passed the two valuable items to him. Ron took them slowly with a befuddled and shell-shocked expression.

"But why?" Ron asked, his voice coming out weak. "Why me?"

"Because it doesn't matter to me if you're in Slytherin or if you are different than your other siblings," his mother spoke, looking slightly guilt with herself. Where is all this coming from? "Your father and I love you dearly and I wanted you to have these. Your uncles would have been so proud of you."

In that moment, Ron's insecurities of being the least loved and being the odd one out evaporated, and he hugged his mother tightly, catching the older woman off guard. His mother squeezed him back and this time, Ron ignored the bone-crushing pain that came with it, and he looked at his mother.

"Thank you, mum… I'll keep these safe with me," Ron promised, holding back his tears. His mother smiled in return, and she nodded with his statement.

"That's my boy," his mother said proudly, ruffling his hair.

The Burrow – Wednesday, July 23rd,1992 (7 p.m.)

Ron smirked at his reflection in the mirror; he wore his semi-formal luxurious robes that Blaise and Theo had bought for him on his birthday and his red hair was styled in a slick way much to the courtesy of Sirius. Pandora's ring glowed brightly on Ron's left hand along with his Uncle Fabian's golden ring, and he tucked in his Uncle Gideon's chain as Xavier walked in.

"Looking good, mate," Xavier complimented with a smirk, and Ron smirked back.

"Thanks, mate," Ron responded, and he fixed his collar. "You'll come after twenty minutes or so, right?"

"Yes," Xavier replied, sitting on his bed. "Our friends will be in for a delighted surprise."

"I guess I should get going then," Ron suggested, and Xavier nodded.

"See you later, mate," Xavier replied with a wink, and Ron chuckled before exiting his room.

As Ron walked down the stairs, he couldn't help but feel a small pit of anxiety form at the bottom of his stomach. This was the first time he would be going over to a friend's house, let alone meet their parents and be in the presence of other Pure-Blood families. It's a good thing Daphne taught me many of the customs, otherwise, I'd look like some fool…

The thought of standing near Pure-Blood families who were definitely going to sneer upon and possibly even outright insult Ron for his Blood-Traitor status was almost enough for him to not even attend the party. In the end, however, he held his resolve and decided to attend. I'm Ronald Weasley and I will not be so easily overturned by some bigots…

Ron held his chin up with confidence and marched into the living room which his siblings and Harry occupied. As soon as he made his presence clear, several pair of eyes drifted towards him, and he got mixed reactions. Ginny and Luna catcalled him, making him blush deeply, Harry and Percy shot him impressed nods, and the twins bowed down to him mockingly, which slightly irked him, but his good mood wasn't swayed.

Ron made his way into the kitchens to inform the adults that he was about to leave, and he was once again met with mixed reactions. His mother and Pandora catcalled him, Sirius whistled, and Remus, Xeno, and his father all admired his fine clothing. His mother caught sight of her brother's ring on Ron's finger and smiled even more widely.

"I'm going to go now," Ron announced, still flushed from all their reactions, earning a few chuckled from the adults. I swear they just love to make us children embarrassed…

"All right, Ronnie, don't spend too much time there," his mother replied, feeling slightly worried that her son would be attending a fully Pure-Blood party.

"I'll be fine, mum, I promised," Ron reassured firmly. I'll just hang out with my friends and eat some food.

"I'll escort you to the fire," Sirius offered, and the two set off for the fireplace.

"Now," Sirius started, preparing the floo for the Greengrass Manor. "Make sure to always stay respectful towards the Lord and Lady of the House, Ron. Only respond to them if they address you first and most of all, don't create a scene."

"Yes, yes, I know," Ron replied, rolling his eyes. Daphne made sure that those 'rules' stayed in my head.

Sirius then handed Ron a small black box wrapped with a silky, white ribbon and Ron took it with a puzzled expression. What's this?

"What's this for?" Ron asked.

"Those are cufflinks and-"

"Are these for me?" Ron interjected, inspecting the box and Sirius frowned at him.

"Will you just listen?" Sirius said. "Those cufflinks are for Anton Greengrass, the host of the party. It's imperative to present a gift to the host of the party."

"Oh…" Ron said, and he smiled at Sirius. "Thanks, Sirius."

"All good, red-locks," Sirius replied, and he then broke into a mischievous grin. "Show those witches what you've got."

"W-what? Witches? What I've got?" Ron spluttered, and Sirius wheezed with laughter. Ron regained his composure and glared at Sirius.

"I'm leaving," Ron huffed, and he faced the fireplace. "Greengrass Manor!"

The red flames changed into bright green flames that blazed as Ron stepped through the fireplace and within the moment he stepped in, he was met with a spacious waiting room. Several fireplaces occupied the room and a long, leather couch was situated in the middle of the room.

Ron looked towards the end of the room and found a horde of well-dressed people lining up to enter the next room. Ron joined the queue and as he got closer towards the entrance of what seemed to be the ballroom, he noticed the two people greeting the attendees and he immediately realized that they were Daphne's parents.

Anton Greengrass was a tall man, with black hair that was styled in a slick back way. He had cold, dark grey eyes that bored into his invitees and his strong jawline gleamed as his face was clean-shaven. Ron couldn't help but feel intimidated by the formidable man.

On the other hand, Julia Greengrass was a tall, brunette witch with a dazzling smile. She had smooth, white skin and Ron definitely knew that Daphne earned her beautiful looks from this woman. Ron straightened his back, took a deep breath, and approached them ceremoniously.

"Good evening, Lord and Lady Greengrass. It is an absolute honour to meet the Lord and Lady of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Greengrass. I am Ronald Weasley, a close friend of your daughter and her other friends," Ron greeted respectfully, and he bowed, praying to Merlin that he had got his posture correct.

Ron looked back up to see that Lady Greengrass was smiling elegantly and Lord Greengrass was smirking slightly. Yes, I did it!

"Welcome to our pulchritudinous home, Ronald," Lady Greengrass greeted warmly, delighted with Ron's formal manners and she handed Ron her hand. Ron took it and placed a soft kiss on her knuckles, earning a pleased smile from Lady Greengrass.

"A gift for the host, my Lord," Ron delivered Lord Greengrass the small gift Sirius had given him, and Ron bowed deeply. The man took it with a satisfied expression and shook hands with Ron firmly.

"A firm grip, indeed. We are honoured to have you, Ronald. Please enjoy yourself," Lord Greengrass said, and he gestured Ron to enter the massive ballroom, but Ron still had one more thing to say.

"My Lord and Lady, I have something to tell you," Ron started, and Daphne's parents exchanged a quick look.

"Go on, Ronald," Lady Greengrass permitted with a curious expression.

"I have informed all of my friends, including Daphne, that our friend, Xavier, would not be attending the party as he still needed to recover," Ron supplied, and Lord Greengrass simply listened, while Lady Greengrass nodded gravely.

"However, it was a lie. Xavier has indeed recovered quite well and wanted to arrive as a surprise, so please forgive us both, but Xavier will be attending," Ron stated. Bloody hell, I sound so formal!

"I see," Lord Greengrass and he then nodded. "I have House-Elves and several wards that will inform me when young Xavier Desmond arrives. Until then, you may enjoy the party."

"Thank you, my Lord and Lady," Ron bowed once more, and he stepped into the grand ballroom. It was filled with a cluster of chatter, but Ron didn't focus on that. Instead, he focused on the immaculate, spacious room with awe. It's… bloody beautiful!

The wafting smells of different foods filled Ron's nostrils and several chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, lighting up the gorgeous room. Marble statues occupied the corners of the enormous room and there were several paintings that depicted elegant mermaids and stunning princesses. The enchanted room's wallpaper was that of exquisite colours and embellishing decorations coloured the room. Ron slowly shook his head. Daphne is living the dream!

"Ron?" came a female voice, and Ron swiftly turned around to find Daphne staring back at him with a smile. Ron couldn't deny that Daphne was absolutely radiant. His female friend wore a red asymmetrical off-the-shoulder sleeveless dress and two diamond earrings hung from her ears, matching with her twinkling dark blue eyes.

"I look amazing, don't I?" Daphne asked with a playful smirk, and Ron blushed heavily, especially as his mind wandered off to Sirius wiggling his eyebrows at him. For fuck sake, Sirius ruined my perception of girls! I can't even look at one without thinking of that creepy face he makes!

"Yes, you do," Ron replied truthfully, and he took her hand and planted a kiss on it.

"You look very handsome," Daphne complimented as she hugged him warmly.

"Eh, it was bound to happen," Ron joked, and Daphne smiled more widely.

"Well, I'll leave you to find the others," Daphne proposed, and Ron shot her confused look.

"Aren't you going to come with me?" Ron asked, and Daphne shook her head.

"No, I've got to get back to my parents. Father wanted me to start greeting people as a hostess would and I only went to go to the loo," Daphne answered, and she then frowned. "On second thoughts, however, I must find Astoria."

"I can't wait to meet that little hellion," Ron admitted with a grin, and Daphne shot him a warning look.

"Trust me, you don't," Daphne said, and she then narrowed her eyes on something behind Ron. "Well, speak of the Devil and he shall appear. Or in this case, she will appear."

Ron turned around and almost burst out in laughter when he saw a smaller version of Daphne stuffing her mouth with various sweets. Sweet Merlin, they look very much alike!

Astoria Greengrass had beautiful, brown hair, just like her mother, and she wore a frilly, white dress. Though Daphne's eyes were dark blue, Astoria had green eyes, just like Tracey and Harry.

"Astoria Greengrass!" Daphne scolded upon reaching her, and the little girl slowly turned around. "Stop eating and follow me now! Our parents are probably fuming at us, and they will blame it on me!"

"All right, I'll come," Astoria relented, and she then grinned childishly. "When you're forty years old."

Ron couldn't help it and broke into laughter, earning a death glare from Daphne, while Astoria looked pleased with herself. She really is a bugger, isn't she?

"All right, all right," Ron said, regaining his composure, and decided to step in before Daphne ripped into him and her little sister. "How about Astoria takes me to Theo and the others, while you go back to your parents?"

Ron's proposition seemed to make both Greengrass sisters agree, and Daphne set off back to her parents, not before shooting an irritated glance at Astoria.

"You saved me," Astoria gasped rather dramatically. "My knight in shining armour!"

"I believe that I haven't had the pleasure to greet you," Ron said with a wide grin. "I am Ronald Weasley."

"I am Astoria Greengrass," Astoria introduced, and she held out her hand. Ron took hold of it and kissed it, earning him a giggle from her.

"Come, I'll take you to your friends," Astoria instructed, and she led Ron past many of the adults who were conversing with each other. From time to time, Ron noticed that some eyes that belonged to the Pure-Blood adults would dart towards him, and they would mutter incessantly. Ron adamantly ignored it as a disconcerting feeling aroused within him and instead focused on locating his friends.

"So, do you like my sister?" Astoria asked, making conversation. Normally, Ron would have spluttered at such a question, but with Daphne's many warnings from the past in mind, Ron smirked coolly to himself. Let's see how this goes…

"No, but I like someone else," Ron replied, and Astoria immediately faced him.

"Who? Who is it? Tell me! I promise I won't tell!" Astoria bombarded, and Ron sniggered inwardly.

"You," Ron responded, and he almost guffawed at Astoria's surprised expression.

"W-what?" Astoria stammered, and Ron smiled mischievously. "Are you being serious?"

"I guess we'll never know," Ron responded smoothly once his eyes landed on his Slytherin friends all communicating with each other.

"I will figure out one day," Astoria huffed indignantly, and she departed back to her parents. Ron chuckled to himself and approached his friends.

"Ron, you're here!" Pansy squealed and she hugged him tightly.

"Hello, Pansy," Ron greeted back, smiling at her sparkling purple dress.

"Looking clean, mate," Theo complimented as Pansy released Ron, and the two boys shook hands.

"Yes, you and Blaise brought me some bloody great robes," Ron replied with a grin, and Blaise shook his head.

"Don't grin like that and don't say 'bloody' out loud like that," Blaise advised with a smirk, and the two shook hands.

"It's great to see you, Ron. I love the way your hair has been styled," Tracey approved with a bright smile, and Ron smiled more widely at her.

"Good to see you too, Trace. How was America?" Ron asked as he returned Tracey's hug.

"It was really fun," Tracey instantly replied, and Ron admired her emerald earrings which matched her green eyes. "I'll tell you all about."

"Sounds like a plan," Ron smoothly replied, and he turned to shake hands with Millie. The big girl had definitely lost one or two pounds and she wore a black dress, with her hair curled, no doubt from Pansy's doing.

"Hi, Ron," Millie greeted, and Ron smiled at her.

"Hey, Mills. Missed me?" Ron asked with a smirk, and Millie chuckled.

"Like a dog misses fleas," Millie remarked, and their friends all sniggered to themselves. Ouch, that was a good one.

"How's Xavier doing?" Theo asked, still smiling in approval at Ron's choice of attire.

"Oh, he's a bit better now," Ron answered, putting an earnest face on and everyone listened intently. "He asked me to tell you lot that he was sorry that he couldn't make it, but he will probably be able to make it to Tracey and Daphne's birthday." Yes, fall for the lies!

"Fair enough," Blaise responded, and Ron inwardly sniggered to himself. They have no idea…

"That's all right," Pansy agreed, still slightly downhearted that she couldn't see her friend. "Tell him that we miss him, ok?"

"You miss him?" came the shocked, pompous voice of Malfoy, and Ron immediately clenched his teeth when his eyes landed on Malfoy, flanked by his two cronies, Crabbe and Goyle. Malfoy?! He's here? Ugh, I shouldn't be surprised… he is a Pure-Blood after all…

"Yes, it's normal for one to miss their friends," Pansy shot back, and Ron smirked at that. That's my girl…

Malfoy seemed lost for words, and Theo decided to step in.

"We're all Slytherins here. There is no need for any altercations," Theo reasoned, shooting Malfoy and Ron a meaningful look.

"Yes, don't cause any scenes here," Blaise added in firmly. "The adults all expect us to be on our best behaviours."

Malfoy simply stared at Theo and Blaise before facing Ron and nodding curtly. Ron nodded back, and Malfoy broke off into a conversation with his two gorillas, who were unsurprisingly eating. That was… weird…

Ron was then reminded of the fact that he and Malfoy's last conversation involved escaping the Forbidden Forest from the Dark Lord. Fair enough, it must be pretty awkward…

"Are you feeling peckish, Ron?" Blaise asked, and Ron nodded when his stomach growled, almost as if responding to Basie's question. I'm bloody famished! "Come, I'll show you the food."

"Thanks, Blaise," Ron decided to accept Blaise's request as the dark-skinned boy was no doubt trying to ease the tension, something that made all of them happy.

Blaise led Ron towards an elongated table that had all types of foreign food Ron had never even seen neatly placed in a row.

"Lord Greengrass always likes to show off his knowledge of the Muggle world, so many of these dishes hail from different countries," Blaise informed, and Ron listened raptly. "I suggest you try the Lasagne Bolognese, I myself enjoy its delicious taste."

"All right, then," Ron said rather awkwardly, and he then took a shiny plate and scooped some lasagne onto his plate. Ron couldn't lie about how appetizing the food looked and he sniffed the rich flavours that stemmed from the food.

"What's that?" Ron asked, eyeing Blaise's plate.

"This is butter chicken with some rice," Blaise answered. "It tastes excellent. Would you like a little bit?"

"Yeah, why not," Ron said, and Blaise took a spoon and dug it into the thick, creamy orange chicken, and handed it to Ron. Ron took it and swallowed it, before coughing to himself. What the heck?

"It tastes great… but why is my throat burning?" Ron asked with slight annoyance and Blaise chuckled.

"Butter chicken is an Indian dish, and they love to experiment with lots of spices in their foods," Blaise provided, and he then pointed over to the corner of the table. "Go drink something if you want to clear your throat."

Greengrass Manor – Wednesday, July 23rd,1993 (7:20 p.m.)

"That was so good," Ron said, savouring the lasting taste of the lasagne.

"Told you so," Blaise replied with a smirk.

"Ron, do you want me to introduce you to my parents?" Pansy asked, and Ron blinked at her. "I know, my mother will probably insult you, but it is good manners to greet the adults as well."

"I… fine," Ron relented reluctantly, and Pansy smiled at him woefully.

"My parents are just over there, so I reckon I'll introduce you to them first," Tracey suggested, and Ron nodded. Tracey then took Ron by the hand and led him towards her parents who were mingling with each other.

"Mum, Dad, this is Ron," Tracey introduced, garnering their attention. Tracey's father, Henry Davis, was a tall man with brown hair and he wore round glasses. He also had an expensive watch on his left hand. Tracey's mother, Claudia Davis, was a beautiful woman who had light brown hair which flowed around her shoulders and Ron noted that Tracey inherited her green eyes from her mother.

"Ah, so this is the Ronald, I presume," Tracey's father said, and Ron instantly took a liking to the man's fun nature.

"Yes, I am Ronald Weasley, a good friend of your daughter," Ron greeted and the two shook hands.

"Hmm, a firm grip on this lad," Lord Davis noted with an approving look, and he smiled. "You don't know how many times I can recall Tracey talking about you or your other friend, Xavier Desmond."

"Dad!" Tracey whined, going red in the face. Ron replicated her blush as well, though he was chuckling. Merlin, this is awkward!

"Henry, stop embarrassing your daughter every second you get for Merlin's sakes," Lady Davis scolded lightly, and she smiled widely at Ron.

"It's so good to finally meet you, Ronald," Lady Davis said warmly, and she hugged Ron tightly. Ron went beet-red when his face edged up against Tracey's mother's chest.

"Please, Lady Davis, you can call me Ron," Ron said smoothly as Lady Davis released him.

"And you may call us Claudia and Henry," Claudia permitted, and Tracey nudged Ron.

"I think Pansy and Millie want to introduce you to their parents," Tracey stated, and Ron nodded.

"It was a pleasure meeting you both. I hope I can speak to you soon," Ron said, and he bowed shortly. Tracey's parents smiled at the red-haired prodigy.

"Please do," Henry agreed, and Tracey led Ron away from her parents.

"Over here, Ron!" came Millie's voice, and Ron strode forward towards Millie and her parents. Lord Bulstrode was a beefy man with an intimidating expression, while Lady Bulstrode was a thin woman who wore a friendly smile.

"Mother, father, this is Ron, my friend," Millie introduced with a kind smile, and Ron returned it.

"It's an honour to meet the Lord and Lady of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Bulstrode," Ron addressed politely, and he bowed to them both. He exchanged a firm handshake with Lord Bulstrode and kissed Lady Bulstrode's hand in curtesy.

"So, you're the little scoundrel who has been teaching my daughter spells?" Lord Bulstrode asked, and Ron shrunk under his gaze.

"Dad," Millie scolded amusingly. "Ron has helped me immensely with my studies."

"I know, love, I am merely teasing," Lord Bulstrode chuckled, and Ron just smothered his anxious feelings from before.

"I would like to thank you for helping our daughter, Ronald," Lady Bulstrode spoke, smiling softly at Ron. "You have helped her enormously and we cannot thank you enough."

"I assure you, the pleasure is all mine," Ron responded smoothly; he was indeed very proud of how Millie had gone from a girl with low self-esteem to a more confident and outgoing witch. Ron then spotted Pansy waving over at him in the corner of his eye and he cleared his throat.

"Excuse me, my Lord and Lady, but I believe my other friend, Pansy Parkinson, is gesturing me over to introduce me to her parents," Ron stated, and the two Bulstrode parents exchanged a quick look.

"A quick word of caution, Ronald, do not take Lady Parkinson's works to the heart," Lord Bulstrode warned, and Ron blinked at him. "She is a bitter and vile woman and will no doubt look down upon your status."

"I… Thank you, my Lord, I will make sure to keep that in mind," Ron responded, feeling slightly dazed that even they warned him. Damn, maybe Pansy's mother really is scum…

Ron excused himself and wandered over to Pansy who was waiting patiently by her parents. Lord Parkinson was a rather fat man who was already tipsy with the glass of alcohol in his hand. Lady Parkinson, however, was a woman who wore a permanent sneer on her face, and she looked like she wanted to be anywhere but here.

"Here he is," Pansy notified, and her parents faced Ron.

"It is an honour to meet the Lord and Lady of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Parkinson," Ron acknowledged, feeling rather tired from making the same introductions. He shook hands with the inebriated Lord Parkinson and kissed the intense Lady Parkinson's hand.

"Seems like this one has the manners the other Weasleys lack," Lady Parkinson remarked, and Ron flinched internally. Shut up bitch!

"How is your evening going, Ronald?" Lord Parkinson asked, and Ron smiled at him.

"It is going well, my Lord, what about yours?" Ron asked.

"Fine, just fine," Lord Parkinson answered with a chuckle.

"Tell me, boy, how did you get into Slytherin?" Lady Parkinson suddenly asked, and Ron faced her.

"I'm not sure, but the Sorting Hat believed that I would excel in Slytherin," Ron replied, watching Lady Parkinson's expression carefully.

"How a Blood-Traitor got put in Slytherin is beyond me," Lady Parkinson said with a grimace, and Ron clenched his teeth.

"Yes, a Blood-Traitor who has earned more than you probably have in Slytherin," Ron muttered, but Lady Parkinson heard him, and she frowned heavily.

"Come husband, let's go find better company someplace else," Lady Parkinson suggested, and she led her intoxicated husband somewhere else. Bigoted twats…

"I am so sorry about her, Ron," Pansy whispered to him sympathetically.

"No, no, it's fine," Ron reassured, balling his fists. "It's my fault for being a Blood-Traitor after all."

Pansy blinked at him for a few seconds and then sighed sadly. She then pulled him into a comforting hug and Ron felt some of his anger vanish.

"Please don't say or think things like that," Pansy spoke, and before Ron could reply, his vision became white and black. A vision!

Vision:

Ron instantly recognized the room that he was in. It's my bedroom!

Ron looked over to his bed and found both Blaise and Pansy sitting on it. What are they doing here in my bedroom?

Ron inched closer towards them and realized that his two friends were much older, probably three or four years older. Blaise had high cheekbones, and his dark skin was immaculate. Pansy's skin was also flawless, and her black hair flowed down to her shoulders and back. Ron also couldn't help but note Pansy's bosom and her thighs. What the bloody hell is wrong with me?!

"Have you been able to access your trust fund account?" Pansy asked, smiling at Blaise.

"Yes," Blaise responded. "With our trust fund accounts combined, we can easily reside in the States to avoid this war."

Ron found himself staring at the 'couple' with a dumbfounded look. War? The States? Trust fund accounts? What the hell is going on?

"And our mothers will probably not find us there," Pansy added in, and Blaise nodded.

"Yes, perhaps someone can inform them that we died," Blaise agreed, and Ron felt the wind get knocked out of sails. Their mothers?!

"Blaise," Pansy started softly, wrapping her arms around Blaise soothingly. "You know, I can understand if you think your mother is still innocent-"

"No," Blaise cut her off firmly. "I know what I saw. The rumours about her are true. They were always true. She is a cold-hearted killer with the greedy desire for money, properties, and sex."

Ron had to steady himself as he processed this information. So, Blaise's mother… is really a murderer? Ugh, maybe that's what this Blaise thinks… I'll make sure to keep this all in mind.

"And what about you, Pans?" Blaise continued, facing her. "Your mother has clearly disowned you and your father couldn't give less a shit about you. This is the best thing to do. To go and live in the States. We can even change our names." Merlin… they're running away from their mothers and this oncoming 'war'…

"I know, Blaise… you're right," Pansy whispered sadly, and her eyes drifted over to her arms. That was when Ron noticed markings on her arms and as he approached her figure, his eyes widened in horror. WHAT THE FUCK?!

Pansy's left arm was scared with boiling, angry red marks and they only looked like they had recently recovered. The repulsive scars continued into the side of her neck and disappeared into her back.

Ron fell back on his tailbone, and he didn't even bother getting back up. Rage and fury bubbled up inside of Ron, giving him a new level of hatred for the sour Lady Parkinson. She beat her daughter with no remorse! How dare she?! I will kill that cunt before she even lays a finger on Pansy!

His own vision began to slowly disperse, and Ron realized that his vision was ending.

"Ron… Ron, speak to me," came Pansy's familiar voice, and Ron snapped out of his trance. What a horrible vision…

"Hey, are you all right?" Pansy asked, feeling her concern increase at Ron's sudden unexplained act of zoning out.

"Yes, Pans, I'm fine. I just got lost in my head," Ron reassured, and he smiled unconvincingly at her. "Let's go join our friends."

"Ok then, if you say so," Pansy slowly agreed, and she turned around to lead Ron back to their friends. Ron looked back and shot a vexed look at Lady Parkinson who was drinking nearby. She hit her own child... she blemished her own daughter...

As Ron tailed closely behind Pansy, the images of the scars on Pansy's left arm temporarily imprinted themself on his mind, and, without a second thought, he held Pansy's hand. She looked momentarily surprised before giggling and holding his hand with hers with a thrilling look. I won't let you or Blaise down, I promise…

"There you two are," came Tracey's voice, and two walked towards their friends hand-in-hand.

"Hello everyone," Daphne announced her presence and they all looked at her to see that she had a slightly exhausted look on her face. "Enjoying the party, I hope?"

"Yes," they all chorused.

"What about you three?" Daphne asked, facing Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle.

"It's all right, I guess," Malfoy mumbled, and Ron rolled his eyes.

"The food is very tasty," Goyle spoke up, his mouth filled with food.

"Very tasty," Crabbe repeated, and Ron found himself briefly shocked that the two could even string a few words. I've never heard them talk…

"All right then," Daphne smiled, and she faced her friends. "How about we all go somewhere else? I'm starting to feel a little dizzy."

"Good idea, lead the way," Theo agreed. Daphne led her friends into an adjacent room to the ballroom and Ron realised that it was more of a living room. Several couches surrounded an alive fireplace and simple plants occupied the room beside windows for decorative purposes.

The seven snakes sat down by the couches and Daphne stretched her arms.

"I'm so glad that all the greetings are over, I was getting very bored," Daphne admitted, and Ron smirked to himself. Well, you still have one more person to greet… Xavier.

"Hey, Daphne," Ron called out and the blonde girl faced him. "I couldn't help but notice that the Manor is extremely secured, more secured than you've told me before."

"Oh," Daphne's smile fell off and she now held a look of guilt. What happened?

"What's wrong?" Ron asked, and Theo sighed from beside Daphne.

"It's because she ended up spilling everything to her parents," Theo answered for Daphne, and Ron cocked an eyebrow. "Spiling all the details of what happened to you and Xavier."

"Wait, what?" Ron asked, his mouth gaping widely. Oh shit!

"I am sorry, Ron, but I was having nightmares… and when my mother comforted me… I just… I just spilled everything to her and father," Daphne provided with an apologetic look. "Father took my story extremely seriously and immediately upgrade the Manor's security."

"Oh," Ron muttered, and he shot her a smile. "I'm sorry that you've been experiencing nightmares, Daphne. Telling your parents was a good idea."

"Thank you for understanding, Ron," Daphne smiled back in appreciation. "They've promised to keep this information to themselves."

"What about you lot?" Ron asked, looking around at his other friends. "Do your parents know?"

"Nah mate," Theo replied.

"Nope," Pansy added in.

"Didn't say a single word, to be honest," Blaise responded.

"Fair enough," Ron said, and he adjusted his two rings and looked at Tracey. "So, Trace, can you tell us about America?"

Xavier Desmond's P.O.V:

The Burrow – Wednesday, July 23rd,1992 (7:35 p.m.)

Xavier tucked his father's chain, slipped on his heirloom ring, and eyed his complexion with a smirk. He wore the luxurious robes Theo and Blaise had gotten him and his dreadlocks were nicely styled. Xavier felt excited at the prospect of surprising his friends with his unannounced arrival and talking to them once more. It's time to go.

Just as Xavier turned around, Harry wandered into the room and smiled at Xavier.

"Going to the party now, right?" Harry asked and Xavier nodded. "Have fun, mate."

"Thank you, mate," Xavier replied, and he shot Harry a curious expression. "What are you going to do?"

"Well, I probably should start getting some homework done," Harry replied with a tired sigh. "The Dursleys forbade me from doing any of it, so now would be the good time to start on it and maybe finish it." Those dickheads…

Xavier stared at Harry for a moment before opening a drawer in Ron's desk and pulling out his own completed homework.

"Here," Xavier handed Harry his answers. "Just don't copy word for word, people like Hermione will have our hides."

Harry was speechless for a few seconds before he broke into a relieved smile and said gratefully, "Thank you, mate, you're a lifesaver!"

"I'll see you in a bit," Xavier chuckled, and he exited the room. He continued down the stairs, smiling to himself as heard the twins making their usual noise in their bedroom and the girls giggling to themselves.

"Ah, dark-locks," Sirius called out as Xavier entered the living room, and the man smiled approvingly at Xavier's attire. "You are undoubtedly Caesar's son."

"Yes, yes, I've heard it a million times, mate," Xavier drawled, and Sirius sniggered to himself. "What are you doing here? Oh, wait, you basically live here."

"Smart arse," Sirius remarked, grinning at their usual banter. "Here, take this."

Sirus handed Xavier a bottle of bourbon and Xavier took the expensive, exquisite bottle with a confused look, whilst Sirius prepared the floo.

"A gift for the host," Sirius explained, and Xavier understood.

"Thank you, Sirius, I'll get going now," Xavier stated, and Sirius nodded.

"Make sure to charm all the witches," Sirius winked at him and walked off laughing to himself. Xavier rolled his eyes and called out 'Greengrass Manor'. The fire blazed green and Xavier stepped through it. That's wicked!

Xavier was met with the entrance room and looked around in awe, eyeing the clear windowpanes which showed him a view into the outside of the Greengrass Manor. Xavier then heard footsteps at the other end of the room and spun around to find two adults awaiting him.

Xavier approached the two people and upon closer inspection realised that the two were indeed Daphne's parents.

"I am sorry for the intrusion-"

"Your friend, Ronald, had informed us of your surprise arrival," Lady Greengrass interjected, smiling softly at him. Oh… in that case…

"Well, it's an absolute pleasure to finally meet the Lord and Lady of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Greengrass. I am Xavier Desmond," Xavier greeted respectfully, bowing deeply.

"It's an honour to have you here, Xavier Desmond," Lord Greengrass spoke as he shook hands with Xavier. "Forgive me, Xavier, as I am sure that you've probably heard countless times before, but you do look very much like your father."

"Thank you, my Lord," Xavier said, and he turned to Lady Greengrass. The beautiful witch held out her hand and Xavier kissed it with passion.

"Your smile reminds me of your mother," Lady Greengrass admitted, and Xavier smiled more widely.

"Than I shall keep this smile on for the rest of the night in honour of you both inviting me to your illustrious home," Xavier promised and both adults smiled in a pleased, contented way at his effortless manners.

"This is for you, my Lord," Xavier said, handing Lord Greengrass with the costly bottle of bourbon. "I hope you enjoy it."

"I very much will," Lord Greengrass replied, eyeing the bottle with a smirk. Good job, Sirius.

"Please, follow us," Lady Greengrass instructed, and they led Xavier into the spectacular ballroom. This place is bloody wonderful!

"You have a very eminent and brilliant home, my Lord and Lady," Xavier complimented truthfully, feeling at ease from the graceful and flamboyant sounds of classical music echoing throughout the immense room. That sounds just brilliant!

"Thank you, Xavier," Lord Greengrass replied. "Please, there are meals and refreshments on that table over there."

"As for your friends, I believe that they slipped into that room over there," Lady Greengrass informed with a smile, pointing over to the right side of the ballroom.

"Thank you very much, my Lord and Lady, I hope to speak to you more tonight," Xavier said, and he began to walk towards the right side of the ballroom.

As he travelled along the bewitching ballroom, he noticed many pairs of eyes linger on him and many of the attendees began to mutter as soon as they saw him. Xavier was able to catch a few people's expressions and there was a mixture of admiration, wariness, and shock. He was even sure that one or two people were outright gawking at him. Xavier smirked inwardly but held a cold expression and walked with a firm posture. Yes, I know that some of you were probably Death-Eaters and my father brought you lot all hell… Don't worry, if the time ever comes for you to return to your 'positions', I will bring the same hell as my father did once…

Xavier reached the door that led to the room where his friends were no doubt inhabiting and before he entered, he caught sight of a girl, no older than ten, annoying Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle consistently. Is that… Daphne's younger sister? Ha, look at how pissed off Malfoy looks!

Xavier shook his head and then opened the door to enter the adjacent room. He entered the room and shut the door behind him quietly. His eyes then ventured to the end of the room, and he smiled to himself as he found his friends all huddled around the fire, conversing with each other. Their backs were turned towards him and either they were pretending to not have noticed him or they had not clearly heard him silently creep into the room. Let's do this.

Xavier approached the group silently like a stalker in the night and as he neared his friends, he could hear Tracey regaling about her time in the States.

"…and so, Travis and I ended up playing American football and I tried to tackle him, but I failed miserably," Tracey said, laughing as she reminisced that particular memory.

"What's American football?" Millie asked curiously.

"It's a sport played in America involving a ball and two teams using it to score more points than the other," Xavier answered for Tracey. His friends all whipped around instantaneously, and the girls gasped loudly, while Theo and Blaise's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets.

"Xavier!" Tracey exclaimed and she immediately rushed towards him and pounced on him, wrapping her smooth arms around him, and pulling his figure close to her.

"Tracey," Xavier simply greeted back, wrapping his own arms around Tracey, and hugging her warmly. She smells so nice…

"I missed you so much," Tracey mumbled into his chest, and Xavier hugged her tighter. I'm here, my friends, I'm here…

"W-what a-are you d-doing here?" Pansy stammered, quite not believing her eyes, whilst Daphne and Millie seemed to be frozen in time. Theo and Blaise were still shell-shocked, and Ron was smirking to himself.

"I came to the party," Xavier answered with an innocent look.

"But… Ron said that you… weren't able to come," Pansy spluttered, and they all slowly faced Ron. The red-haired boy, who was chuckling to himself, immediately ceased his laughter and stared back with an uneasy expression.

"You lied, didn't you?" Blaise theorized, and Ron gulped.

"RONALD WEASLEY!" Daphne shrieked, charging at him with her nails. "You unnecessarily made us all believe that Xavier wouldn't be able to attend the party!"

"Hey, hey, it was my idea," Xavier cut in, shielding Ron with himself and Tracey, who was still clinging to him tightly. "I told him to tell you lot that I couldn't come so that it would be a surprise. I mean, it's not like I told him to tell you guys I was dying or something. That would have been ruthless."

Daphne seemed to lose some of her exasperation at his explanation, and Xavier smiled at the rest of them. "Now, are you lot going to just stay there, or are you going to greet me properly?"

Pansy then came forward and joined the hug with Tracey, and Xaver kissed the side of her head as he felt her tears leak onto his neck.

"I'm all right, Pans," Xavier promised, and he then smiled widely. "You wore the earrings I brought you."

"Of course, I did, they are perfect," Pansy replied with a wet giggle, wiping her jubilant tears away and she kissed Xavier's cheek affectionately. "Thank you for buying them for me."

"Which reminds me," Xavier spoke up, looking at all his friends. "Thank you for getting me presents for my birthday. I will use them all well, I promise."

"Your very welcome, Xavier," Millie responded for all of them, and she hugged Xavier once Tracey and Pansy let go of him. Something gleamed behind Ron and Daphne's eyes, and they nodded to each other, something that Xavier missed.

"How are you doing, mate?" Theo asked, snapping out from his trance, and giving Xavier a man-hug, which was a first.

"I'm doing just fine, brother, I've been staying at the Burrow for a few days now and I've recuperated quite well," Xavier answered firmly, patting Theo's shoulder and he turned to Blaise.

"We were honestly going to visit," Blaise started as he and Xavier came in for a man-hug as well. "But your words of 'the healers thinking that it would be too claustrophobic' just stopped us from visiting."

"Yes, I know it sounds like bullshit, but the healers were adamant about giving me some space," Xavier responded as he let go of Blaise.

Xavier then turned to Daphne and the blonde girl seemed to be in a fixated daze at seeing him with her own two eyes. Damn, she looks very beautiful…

Daphne then held out her hand and Xavier took it with a gentle motion and laid a perfect, sweet kiss on her smooth knuckles, making her blush severely.

"It's so good to finally see you, Xavier," Daphne spoke in a breathless tone.

"Thank you, it's so good to finally see you guys as well," Xavier responded, and he then sat on one of the couches. "Anything I missed out on?"

"Did Ron tell about how you and he single-handedly won us the House Cup?" Tracey asked with a bright grin, and Xavier's jaw dropped.

"We won?" Xavier asked with a grin, and he then frowned at Ron. "How come you didn't tell me?"

"Cut me some slack, will you? I forget to tell you," Ron drawled with a smirk, and Xavier shot him a dead-panned look.

"The Slytherins must have gone insane," Xavier pondered, and his friends nodded fervently. Damn… we really won… even after getting caught with the dragon business and whatnot… Erik and Selene must have been really happy…

"Yeah, the older students threw us all a party, and it went all night long. Even Snape joined us for a bit, mainly to big goodbye to the seventh-year students," Theo responded, and Xavier smiled to himself before shooting them all an apologetic look.

"I'm sorry that I caused a sense of despondency between you lot-"

"Not this again," Tracey rolled her eyes, cutting off Xavier.

"Seriously, why do you keep blaming yourself for our little period of sadness over your absence?" Daphne piped in, her eyes narrowed at Xavier.

"Because I caused you lot such pain and distress… none of you deserved that," Xavier pointed out. None of you deserved that…

"Oh, get over yourself, will you?" Tracey said, shaking her head at Xavier's ludicrous statement. "We would have worried either way."

"I guess you're right," Xavier sighed after a moment. "Just know that I'm fine and you needn't fret over me."

"We'll keep that in mind," Millie reassured.

"Xavier, I would like to show you something," Daphne suddenly said, and Ron nodded at him. Oh, this must be the 'mysterious' present they got me…

"Stealing him away from us, are you?" Tracey asked with a mischievous grin, and Daphne blushed brightly.

"No, and Ron is coming with us," Daphne huffed, and Tracey laughed at Daphne's expense.

"I'll be back," Xavier promised, and he followed Daphne and Ron into another room.

"Pokey!" Daphne called out and a House-Elf was summoned by her feet.

"Lady Daphne, what would Pokey assist you with this fine evening?" Pokey asked, bowing deeply.

"Can you please go and retrieve the gift in my bedroom?" Daphne asked, and the House-Elf disapparated.

"Ron told me that you two chipped in to buy me a gift," Xavier told, and he smiled gratefully. "Thank you, guys."

"It's no problem-"

Ron's reply was cut off by Blaise who opened the door and poked his head inside.

"Sorry to interrupt, but Lord Greengrass has requested to see you, Ron," Blaise informed, and Ron shot a confused and nervous look to Daphne.

"Oh, he probably wants to talk to you about chess or something," Daphne pointed out, biting her bottom lip.

"All right, I'll go," Ron relented to the obligation, and he and Blaise left the room, leaving Xavier and Daphne alone. Pokey then reappeared and laid a black suitcase in front of the two Slytherins. What's this?

"Would young Lady Daphne like something else?" Pokey squeaked, and Daphne shook her head.

"That will be all, Pokey, you may go back to your duties," Daphne replied kindly, and the House-Elf bowed once more before disapparating.

"So, what is it?" Xavier asked slowly, eyeing the black suitcase with a curious look. What is inside this suitcase?

"How about you press this button here?" Daphne proposed, pointing to a button on the side of the suitcase. Xavier obliged and pressed the button. To his astonishment, the suitcase began to enlarge and transform. As its transformations became clearer, Xavier couldn't believe his own eyes. A beautiful, grand piano stood before him, with a lustrous, black polished finish and Xavier softly played the C note. I love magic...

"Daphne… what in the world…" Xavier muttered, and Daphne looked pleased at his star-struck face.

"It's a portable piano," Daphne explained, smiling at his astounded look. "You can either press the button or use a spell, which I'll tell you later, to transform the suitcase into a piano, so you can conveniently take it anywhere without any hassle. Obviously, you can't use magic right now because of the trace and the underage rule, so the button comes in handy for that reason."

"Daphne… you and Ron really got this… for me?" Xavier questioned quietly, his dark eyes solely transfixed on the elegant instrument.

"Of course, Xavier… I hope you like it," Daphne whispered to him, and Xavier looked towards her. This is too much… She and Ron really got me a piano… Why have I been blessed with such amazing friends?

"I love it," Xavier whispered back, and he then pulled Daphne into a hug. The blonde girl had not expected it at all, but nonetheless, returned it and she sighed in relief.

"I'm so happy that you are all right," Daphne muttered tenderly, and for the first time in ever, Xavier noticed how beautiful Daphne really looked. How her dark-blue eyes glowed with a fierce passion and kindness, how her composure was one of elegance, and how soft-spoken she sounded.

"You look fabulous, Daphne," Xavier blurted out what he was thinking, and the girl's cheeks turned rosy. What the hell is wrong with me? I never act this way…

"And you look very charming yourself," Daphne returned the compliment earnestly with a giggle and she delicately kissed his cheek.

Ron Weasley's P.O.V:

Greengrass Manor – Wednesday, July 23rd,1992 (7:55 p.m.)

Blaise guided Ron back to the ballroom and pointed over to the food and drink table where they both saw Lord Greengrass pouring himself a drink. Blaise patted Ron's back encouragingly and returned to the room they were just in. I wonder what Lord Greengrass wants with me…

Ron took a deep breath and strode over to Lord Greengrass, and the man faced him with a drink in one hand.

"You wished to see me, my Lord?" Ron asked, and Lord Greengrass nodded in confirmation.

"Yes, I would like to discuss a few matters you, Ronald, and fear not, you are not in trouble," Lord Greengrass assured, and Ron's heart rate slowed down at that. Well, that's good to know…

"Now, first off, my daughter has told me of your excellent skill in chess," Lord Greengrass started, and Ron listened intently. "I merely took that as another thing that you were great in, that is, until I heard about the triumphant victory you attained by defeating Minerva McGonagall's chessboard. Is this true?"

"Yes, it is, my Lord," Ron began after a moment. He didn't know this man withheld such information, but Daphne had probably told him about everything, so it made sense. "I defeated a human-sized chessboard to… go on to the next stage…"

"I see," Lord Greengrass muttered, stroking his chin, while Ron was waiting patiently for him to continue. "That is a rather impressive feat, indeed. Ronald, I would like to propose something to you."

"Propose? What is it, my Lord?" Ron asked slowly.

"I'm not sure if you have heard, but as I am one of the Governors in the Board of Governors for Hogwarts, I fund a chess club for those who have the skill and quick wit in the art of chess," Lord Greengrass informed, and Ron felt dazed. Where's he going with this? "I would like you to join."

"W-what?" Ron asked, temporarily shocked. Join… his chess club?

"You can train with superiors, learn various playing styles and how to solve different conundrums, and on top of that, there are yearly, even monthly, tournaments where you can earn serious money and trophies for your successes," Lord Greengrass added in. Trust me, I'm sold with this idea… I just can't believe this...

"I… I accept, my Lord," Ron said after a moment, and he exchanged a handshake with Lord Greengrass. "Thank you so much for this opportunity, my Lord. I cannot express my gratitude."

"You needn't show me your gratitude, Ronald. Play well, work hard, and rewards will come your way," Lord Greengrass advised, and Ron made sure to keep those words in his mind.

"Now, there is one more matter I would like to discuss," Lord Greengrass started, and Ron nodded.

"Of course, what is it, my Lord?" Ron asked, feeling exuberant with his new opportunity to earn money lucratively and take his hobby seriously.

"It's about your father's new drafted legislation," Lord Greengrass began, and Ron was surprised to hear his father's name get thrown into the conversation. "His new law suggests that dark objects shall not be distributed, and instead, confiscated so that no muggles can be harmed from them."

Ron's heart swelled in pride at his father's thoughtful law. I'm proud to be his son…

"I myself have nothing to hide, however, many Pure-Bloods do and so I would like to give you a warning," Lord Greengrass said with an emotionless tone, and Ron gulped slightly, especially when he caught a few pair of eyes fixated on him and Lord Greengrass. "Some people might come after you and you must keep your guard on, Ronald. Over time, people will forget and move on." Fuck me, cunts make it sound bad when it's really not…

"Just a word of caution, Ronald," Lord Greengrass reached and squeezed Ron's shoulder, and Ron was dumbstruck.

"I… I understand, my Lord," Ron bowed his head courteously. "Thank you for discussing these matters with me."

"It's my pleasure, Ronald," Lord Greengrass replied, pouring himself another drink. "Please, go re-join my daughter and your friends and enjoy the rest of the night."

Ron nodded and began to walk back to the room adjacent to the ballroom. People might look down upon me for my father's new legislation? Well fuck them, I couldn't give less of a shit about what they think… after all, I have earned the older student's respect and admiration…

Ron entered the room and shut the door behind him. He didn't see Xavier marching up to him.

"Mate, I didn't think that you'd get me a piano!" Xavier exclaimed and he grabbed Ron into a hug. Ron stiffened before relaxing and returning the hug to his best friend.

"You deserved it, mate," Ron spoke back, smiling at his dark-skinned friend. Xavier smiled at him with an appreciative expression that was beyond words, and just simply escorted him back to the couches where their friends were seated.

"What did my father speak to you about, Ron?" Daphne immediately inquired upon the two prodigy's appearance.

"Oh, he made an offer to me first," Ron started, sitting next to Theo and Tracey as Xavier sat next to Blaise and Daphne. "He asked me to join the chess club he funds."

"Oh, that's great, Ron!" Pansy squealed, happy for her friend's new opportunity.

"Yeah, congratulations, mate," Theo added in with an impressed look, patting Ron's shoulder. "I've heard that you have to be very skilled and worthy to get into the club."

"He did beat a professor's chessboard," Millie reminded, whilst Xavier patted Ron's back.

"And the second thing he talked to me about was something to do with my dad's new legislation," Ron provided, and his friends listened with rapt attention. "He said that some people… might come after me or might act sour towards me…"

"Is the new legislation to confiscate dark objects so that muggles can't be harmed?" Theo asked, and Ron nodded. "Yeah mate, I heard my father rambling on about it."

"It doesn't matter, mate, you've got us, the older Slytherins, the professors, and your family at Hogwarts," Xavier reminded firmly. "No one will say a thing."

"I hope so," Ron said, though he felt elevated by Xavier's reasoning words.

The Burrow – Wednesday, July 23rd,1992 (8:30 p.m.)

Ron and Xavier entered the Burrow after a much long goodbye from their friends. They had spent the rest of the time laughing, eating, and even testing some strong punch, which made them all slightly dizzy. Xavier had also been introduced to their friends' parents and much to Ron's amusement, Lady Parkinson was visibly uncomfortable under Xavier's cold tone when he greeted her. That was really fun…

"I'm going to put your gift up in our room," Xavier said happily, and he dashed up the stairs. Ron smiled after him, feeling rather proud and satisfied with himself that Xavier looked so thrilled at receiving the portable piano as a gift. 

"Hey Ronnie!" came Ginny's voice, and Ron faced his little sister with a smile.

"Hey Gin," Ron greeted happily, and he hugged her tightly. Ginny giggled and held his hand excitedly.

"Can you and Xavier come and play with me and Luna?" Ginny asked, and Ron chuckled.

"Of course, we can," Ron answered, and Ginny beamed enthusiastically before all but dragging him up the stairs. Suddenly, his vision started to become black and white, and Ron was shocked. Another vision?! Bloody hell…

Vision:

Ron looked around him and slowly realized that he was in fact in the vacant pitch in Hogwarts where the Quidditch teams would practice their drills and playing styles. I wonder why I'm here…

Something then whizzed past Ron and the red-haired boy was caught off guard. What the hell was that?!

Ron refocused his eyes on the flying figure and after a moment he broke into a smile when he saw an older Ginny expertly flying around, dodging bludgers, and smartly scouting for the golden snitch. Bloody hell, she's just as good as Charlie… maybe even better…

Ginny then caught the minuscule snitch and landed a few feet away from the invisible Ron. It came as a shock to Ron when he found Luna sitting in the stands by herself, and she too looked much older. Both of my sisters are here…

"You're getting better every day, Gin," Luna pointed out, her voice still airy and full of mystique.

"Thank you, Lu," Ginny said with a smile, and she stretched her arms, making a few bones crack grotesquely. Ron smiled to himself; both of his sisters had definitely gone through many changes and they had grown into beautiful, young women.

"This firebolt feels even better than I thought," Ginny continued, running her fingers down the broom smoothly. A firebolt? What's that? It looks AND sounds expensive!

"Ron always had an eye for buying expensive gifts for the people he loves," Luna responded, though her expression was more meaningful. Did I buy Ginny an expensive broom? Bloody hell, I must be rich then…

Ginny's joyful expression slowly shifted into one of guilt and she sighed as she sat down next to Luna.

"I don't know anymore, Luna," Ginny started softly. "I feel like he and I keep messing up with each other… we're not as close as we used to be…" What the hell? Ginny and I… aren't close in the future?

"Do you have any solution to speak with him and resolve your problems?" Luna asked, humming to herself and braiding Ginny's hair.

"No, Lu… I don't. I barely see him anymore," Ginny answered, and Ron saw tears start to swell up in her eyes. "And I think… I think it's all my fault. Not even the twins caused this. I did. And now Ron will never love me again. My favourite brother will never love me again… I'm such a fucking idiot!" What's going on? Did I cause a fight between us? Did she cause a fight between us? Fuck me, I don't know…

"Take a deep breath, Gin," Luna advised calmly, and Ginny leaned into Luna's side. "Ron will always love you. Do you still love him?"

"Of course, I do, he's my brother!" Ginny replied in exasperation. "I will never stop loving him and for everything he has done for me."

"Then he will never stop loving you, Gin," Luna provided with a sad smile, and Ginny began to sob. "It's the unconditional love of family. No matter what, family will always look out for each other and love each other until the end…" Yes, I will never stop loving any of you…

Ron was brought back to the present and he found Ginny staring at him with a concerned expression.

"Ronnie… are you all right?" Ginny asked slowly, squeezing her brother's hand.

"Yes… Gin," Ron responded after a few seconds, and he then pulled Ginny into his chest. Bloody hell Ron, don't tear up!

"I love you, no matter what, ok?" Ron reminded, and Ginny looked up to him with a wide smile. Fucking hell, I'm turning into a sappy twat with these visions!

"I love you too, Ronnie!" Ginny replied, giving her brother an extra squeeze and kiss on his cheek. "Now can we go play?"

"Sure thing, Gin, I'll just go get Xavier," Ron agreed, and he bounded to his room.

"Hey, mate," Xavier greeted, and the dark-skinned boy had changed back into his normal clothing.

"Hey mate, Gin and Luna wanted us to play with them. You up for it?" Ron asked, and Xavier chuckled.

"Yeah, why not," Xavier said, and he left the room to go find Ginny and Luna. Ron closed the door and pulled out the special diary that Millie had got for him. It's time I account and note down every vision I've ever had… I'm not entirely sure if I'm a Seer or if that mysterious voice has anything to do with it... But I know for a fact that these visions are not to be ever taken with a grain of salt...

And so, Ron began to write away, filing the diary's first few pages with the visions he had received since the day of Pandora's incident. These visions are extremely important and vital and I'm not sure if it's a blessing or curse in disguise, but I will make sure to use the information from the visions to my use and potential…