The Wizarding Afterlife

The Marauders: Currently Hiring

*J.K. Rowling owns all of the characters*

"BRACE YOURSELVES!" RON screamed, ducking for cover.

The wall exploded into a million pieces. Fred collapsed on the ground, a groan escaping his lips. His whole body was sore, struck by the wreckage. Around him, debris went flying, hitting the floor with a loud 'thump'.

Frantic, Percy knelt beside him. His face was covered with blood, his red hair a mess. It was unusual, seeing him like this. Unruly. Percy gripped his wand in one hand, the other wiping his eyes.

It took a moment to realize he was crying.

At Percy's expression, Fred's heart sank, and he wanted to say that he was fine—just seconds away from cracking another joke. But his mouth was sealed shut, refusing to cooperate.

Rookwood. That Death Eater had caused all the commotion. Fred didn't know how he knew, but he guessed it was part of this process—of dying. Merlin, maybe he was becoming the next Trelawney, too.

When someone died, Death put on a show—a flashback containing their own memories. At least, Fred was certain of that theory until this moment.

Because he got a fast forward instead.

Weasley's Wizard Wheezes was now reopening. Cameras flashed everywhere, banners held wide as he and George stood in front of their joke shop after the war. Mrs. Weasley waved at them from the crowd, beaming with pride.

Ron was elbowing Harry, annoyed. His brother was uncomfortable at the sight of Potter and Ginny holding hands. At his reprimand, Harry's cheeks turned pink, embarrassed.

"Oh, leave them be, Ron." Hermione chided, smiling. She squeezed his hand. "They're perfect for each other."

Fred swore he saw Ron blush, and he realized his brother was thinking of something else. With one last look, he managed to leave Harry and Ginny be, still rolling his eyes.

"Everyone," George began, "we give you—Weasley's Wizard Wheezes!"

The crowd cheered. Fred cut the ribbon, a grin on his face. Now, as people flooded their joke shop, the twins exchanged a knowing smile—happy of how things turned out.

Merlin, what a good life.

But Fred wouldn't see it happen.

Percy was shaking his shoulders now, a worried look in his eyes. Tears streamed down his cheeks. Well, at least he got to see his over-confident brother pull a joke, if only once. Fred knew he was dying, and he was glad to leave this world with honor—fighting for Hogwarts, saving people amid the chaos.

He would be joining the lines of the fallen. Of the brave.

"Take care of yourselves." he whispered, seeing his siblings cry out. Fred managed to smile for them, albeit heartbroken. "Don't worry about me."

Then, the Weasley prankster released his last breath, staring into nothingness.

Fred was gone.

**~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~**

SOMEONE WAS POKING his face. Fred squinted his eyes, seeing three wizards stand before him. They all grinned, talking among themselves. There was a witch by the sofa too, and she rolled her eyes at the fuss those wizards were making. She waved at Fred, though.