Ronnie Weasley and the Shadow of Legacy [Harry Potter Fanfic]

Ch. 4 - Hogwarts Express

The sun had barely risen when Ronnie Weasley woke up, the excitement of the day ahead making it impossible to sleep any longer. She sat up in bed, her worn, hand-me-down clothes laid out neatly on the chair beside her. As she dressed, she couldn't help but smile, thinking of the letters she had received from Bill and Charlie the night before. Both had sent their love and encouragement, reminding her that today marked the beginning of her Hogwarts journey—a thought that both thrilled and terrified her.

When Ronnie went downstairs to the kitchen, she was greeted by the comforting smells of breakfast. Molly was already bustling about, serving up plates of eggs and bacon. Her older brothers—Percy, Fred, and George—were seated at the table, engaged in their usual morning banter.

"Morning, Ronnie!" Fred called out as she took her seat. "Ready for your first day as a real Hogwarts student?"

"Yeah, how are you feeling?" George chimed in with a grin, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Ronnie poured herself a glass of pumpkin juice and took a deep breath. "I'm nervous but also excited. I can't wait to make new friends, explore, and create memories."

"That's the spirit," Percy said, sounding proud. He had the air of someone who'd been through it all and was happy to impart his wisdom. "Just remember to stay out of trouble," he added, with a pointed look at the twins.

Fred and George snickered, clearly unconcerned by Percy's warning.

Molly sat down with them, her eyes soft with nostalgia. "I remember my first day at Hogwarts," she said with a small smile. "My brothers, your Uncles, Fabian and Gideon, ensured I was safe and comfortable when sorted into Gryffindor. They looked out for me... just like your brothers will look out for you."

Ronnie noticed a hint of sadness in her mother's eyes and knew she was thinking of her late Uncles. She squeezed her mother's hand, offering a small smile in return.

After breakfast, it was time to leave. Arthur had already left for work at the Ministry, so Molly and the children piled into his enchanted Muggle car to drive to King's Cross Station. The journey from Devon to London was long, but the excitement in the car made it feel shorter than it was. Fred and George entertained everyone with jokes, while Percy tried to impart last-minute advice to Ronnie about Hogwarts.

When they finally arrived at King's Cross, Fred and George helped Ronnie with her school trunk, loading it onto a cart alongside their own. Scabbers, the old rat Percy had passed down to her, peeked out of her pocket, and she gave him a quick pat on the head before tucking him back inside, hoping no one would judge her for having such a shabby pet.

The station was bustling with Muggles, and the Weasleys did their best to blend in as they made their way to Platform 9 ¾. Ronnie walked between Fred and George, following Molly and Percy, who led the way. Just as they approached the barrier, a familiar voice called out her name.

"Ronnie!"

She turned to see Harry hurrying toward them, his unruly red hair and bright green eyes unmistakable. He was wearing clothes just as worn as hers, which surprised her—she'd always assumed the Wizarding Savior would be dressed in something more... well, regal. But she kept that thought to herself.

"Hi, Harry!" Ronnie greeted him with a smile. "Are you ready for Hogwarts?"

"Yeah, I guess so," Harry replied a bit shyly. "But, um... do you know where Platform 9 ¾ is?"

Ronnie pointed to the barrier. "It's right there. You just have to run straight at it, don't worry! We'll go together."

Harry looked relieved and then shyly greeted the rest of the Weasleys. Molly's face lit up as she introduced herself, and Percy gave a formal nod, still a bit in awe of the fact that Harry Potter was standing right in front of him. Fred and George, however, couldn't resist a bit of teasing.