Chapter 4
Small fangs dug into his neck the moment the portal dropped the three of them in a small clearing next to Zandian, Raspen, Riven, Ethan and the two Air Gheyo and Hadrian’s wings curved forward, blocking his Submissive from view. When Harry released him, confused noise burbling from his throat, Hadrian felt the mark take place and only just had the mind to soothe the spot directly under Harry’s jaw before his own fangs slid into place. There was a small gasp and then a purr as the shift, twist, click of the soul bond solidified between them. Hadrian got the immediate understanding that the only reason Harry hadn’t fallen into a full-on panic attack was because he was too busy focusing on cataloging any potential danger from any of the unrecognized adults and also his worry for his friends. The realization that Harry was afraid of his own bonded because he’d been taught that adults couldn’t be trusted made Hadrian want to tear someone apart with his claws. Instead, he gave another soothing rumble.
“Nobody here will hurt you.” He said, but didn’t pull back his wings yet. He heard the disgruntled sounds of those beyond his wings, but they could be soothed later. His Submissive - their Submissive - came first. When Harry didn’t respond, Hadrian pressed, because this had to be dealt with now before it could become worse. “They were all called here, Harry, same as I was. Same as your Joker and your Merrow. Could any of us hurt you?” That had Harry pulling back to meet his gaze, and Hadrian knew why; it was so that he could judge not only by instinct, but also by his own eyes. Finally, he shook his head.
“Verbal answer, please.” Hadrian requested. When the first sound out of Harry’s mouth was a chirrup and he blushed, Hadrian didn’t fight his smile. A frown crossed Harry’s features, one of concentration, and the next time Harry opened his mouth, words came out.
“I know you won’t hurt me. I can feel it.”
“Good.” Finally, he drew his wings back, and when Harry realized there were others present, he ducked his head again but didn’t completely hide against Hadrian this time. “That feeling you have, with the three of us, it will be the same with the others. All of them were called here by your magic, and all of them would rather die than hurt you.” The dark promise had a few eyebrows going up, but nobody disputed the words because it was true. When Harry saw that, it had him shaking his head, and confusion and fear trickled through the formed bond to Hadrian. It had his fangs aching for blood.
“I don’t want anyone to die for me.” Harry argued, “If you die, then I’ll be alone again.” Hadrian was at a loss of what to say. He couldn’t promise to live - he was Gheyo, Alpha or not. It was Raspen who stepped forward, the Pareya only a step behind him, something which relieved Hadrian, because both were definitely going to be the most grounding presence considering Hadrian was holding onto control by the edge of his fangs. Harry’s eyes darted between the two, only looking at the others in the clearing enough to register their existence before focusing on the two approaching. When Harry visibly perked up with recognition at the sight of the Pareya, Ethan, Raspen gracefully took a step back so that Ethan was in the lead, but didn’t stop his approach. As soon as he was close enough, Ethan opened his arms for Harry. Harry only looked to Hadrian briefly, as if to confirm what had been said, and at his reassuring nod, immediately launched to the Pareya’s arms.
Nobody was shocked when the tiny Submissive immediately buried his fangs into his Pareya’s neck, or when he instinctively lifted his arm in offer without releasing his grip. It was curious that the arm offered was the same one offered to the Merrow. They all felt the magic begin to settle as another bond was closed, and Hadrian’s shoulders relaxed as the Earth magic flooded through the bonds, grounded everything. When Harry lifted his head from Ethan, looking at Raspen, the prince finally spoke.
“We can’t promise to never die,” he told Harry, tone apologetic. “But we can promise to do our best to live, and to support and protect each other so that nobody needs to face danger alone.” Magic hummed through the clearing, heavy enough that it had the other Gheyos shifting their weight, ready for a fight.
“You promise?” Even though Raspen had already said they would, there was a way the magic hummed around them, that told them Harry’s question was more than just that. Hadrian realized then it was Harry’s magic, and he couldn’t help but stare at just how powerful their Submissive was. He wondered how much more powerful he would become when he reached majority. Raspen didn’t respond right away, holding Harry’s gaze for a moment. When he finally nodded, magic snapped into place, another bond between them all. Hadrian felt it reverberate along the other bonds as well, sealed and unsealed, and wondered idly what the others would think of such a promise. But now wasn’t the time. Instead, he watched as Harry launched himself at the prince next, and fangs broke skin. When he pulled away, he tilted his neck, offering the side opposite of Hadrian’s own mark.
When their bond snapped into place, the ground rumbled beneath their feet. Hadrian wondered if the shockwaves would be felt even in Nevarah. When the ground settled, Harry shifted to be let down, and glanced at his own shoulder again.
“It smells funny.”
Hadrian crossed the clearing in a blink, Quinn only a few steps behind him, but Hadrian lowered his face over the injury, breathing it in as well. He could smell the coppery tang of blood, could recognize his submissive’s scent, as well as that of the others he’d bonded to.
Then he smelled it.
His gaze snapped to the Healer.
“The bite. It was necrotic.”
The words had Riven stepping forward as well with a curse, electricity crackling through his hair.
“You cast, I’ll brace, Kalzik.” Riven ordered their Healer, tone brusque. The Healer, a Kalzik, Hadrian realized, which was extremely lucky, scowled, but nodded. Then he looked at Hadrian.
“This is going to hurt him. Brace for it.”
Hadrian reached out but Harry shook his head.
“It’s ok. I can do it.”
The growls those words earned had Harry flinching, but he obviously had taken Hadrian and Raspen’s words to heart, because no fear followed. A hand on Hadrian’s shoulder held back the sharp edges, and allowed the Alpha to take a breath.
“I know you’re used to doing things alone. But I want to help. We want to help. Will you let us?” He offered his hand, and Harry’s honest surprise had Hadrian swallowing another growl. The hand on his shoulder tightened, but it was in commiseration, not censure.
Harry accepted his hand, and Hadrian dropped to a crouch and pulled him closer, turning him so his back was tucked against Hadrian’s chest, and Hadrian could press his face against Harry’s neck. Harry gave another chirp, but didn’t fight the action, leaning his weight against Hadrian in concession. When the first spell sank under Harry’s shoulder, he barely twitched, but Hadrian recognized the magic, had felt it himself. He knew it burned, because it was literally burning and purging the poison from the body. It said nothing good about Harry’s childhood that he barely reacted other than to shift in discomfort at a spell that would have most others crying out. When the poison started to bubble to the surface with a hissing, sizzling sound, that’s when Harry flinched, his hands grabbing onto Hadrian’s arms, both the one around his waist and the one across his chest, helping keep him steady. He let out a warble of distress, and it was Ethan who stepped in again, crouching in front of Harry once more, though his wings were relaxed now, and not shielding.
“I’m sure you have many questions, Harry. Are there any I can help to answer?” Rather than nod, Harry tilted his head so it could rest against the side of Hadrian’s, and also see Ethan more clearly around the Healer and Mage.
“What are we?” was Harry’s first question, and Ethan smiled.
“We are Dragel. We are a race of beings that have draconic ancestry and traits, and some of us can even shift into a full dragon form. What you are now, and what most of us are now,” Ethan explained, waving at his own wings and scales present, “Is in one of our halfling forms. As you saw earlier with your Beta and twins, it is possible to retract those features.”
“I can turn into a dragon?” The words were awed rather than fearful, and Ethan’s smile brightened.
“Quite possibly. You’re certainly powerful enough. But I imagine it is something our Healer would rather you waited until majority for.” Harry huffed out a breath, but a small smile made it’s way across his face. Then his eyes widened.
“Can we fly with our wings?” There was a breathless, excited quality to the question, and Ethan laughed.
“Yes, of course. Though you’ll have to be taught.” he tilted, bringing the two Air Gheyo back into sight. “In fact, you have two Air Dragel in your suite. I’m sure they would be most adept at teaching you.” Harry’s whole body perked up, excitement palpable.
“Really? Could you? I’ve only flown with a broom, but even that was incredible!” There was a pause as everyone absorbed his words before the Gheyo with chrome wings was gliding forward, wide grin in place.
“Of course we can, little one. Though you will have to tell us more about this whole broom thing.”
“I can show you! I have the newest model. Professor McGonagall ordered it for me when I got on the Quidditch team. I’m the youngest seeker of the century.”
Though the words were bragging, the tone was awed, as if he could hardly believe it himself. Then his eyes were on the Gheyo’s wings, at how the chrome sparkled.
“Your wings are really pretty.” The words were followed by a blush, but the Gheyo in question actually preened.
“Why thank you, you absolute darling.” the pet name had Harry squirming, but those with bonds could tell he was both embarrassed and pleased. “Now I just must introduce myself. I’ve been waiting ages to meet you.” At the words, the other one Ethan had identified as an Air Dragel, with the palest features Harry had ever seen, stepped forward to cuff the first over the head.
Harry immediately went still.
Everyone else froze in reaction.
Then the first Gheyo was nudging Ethan gently aside, taking his place and pulling the other down with him.
“My name is Minh, and this is Idan. We are Gheyo.” The words were serious, despite the earlier levity. “Do you know what Gheyo means, little one?”
Harry shook his head.
“Gheyo means that we are fighters. It means we can be very physical. It means we might even hurt each other.”
“Minh-” Idan cut in, but at a sharp look from Minh, he subsided.
“I am princess. Idan is my Queen.” The words had Hadrian shifting in surprise, it wasn’t what he would’ve guessed. “It means that it’s Idan’s job to boss me around.” there was a bit of humour in his voice at that last statement, but then his own vibrant green gaze grew serious again. “No matter what, know that just as we would die, or live, for you, we would do the same for each other. But we are Gheyo. We will fight, but if it hurts you, we will try to keep it away from you.”
Everyone was quiet while they waited for Harry’s response, the only sound the soft crackle of magic as Healer and Mage worked.
“Will you - will you fight me?” They all knew the question wasn’t a request, but fear being voiced. Though Minh’s discomfort at being the one to answer this question was obvious, he never looked away from Harry.
“If you want us to teach you to fight, we will.” Minh finally answered. “But you are not Gheyo. We will never hurt you how we might hurt each other. It’s in our nature, and it keeps our skills up. It’s not in your nature, and you don’t need these skills. It’s why you have us.”
Harry gave a slow nod.
“Fred and George are beaters.” He offered, a non-sequitur that had Minh blinking. “In Quiditch,” he qualified. “They’re job is to make sure the bludgers don’t hit the other players on our team. It means they can be pretty aggressive, and they’re always trying to knock the players on the other team off their brooms, but that’s their job. They don’t try to hurt anyone the rest of the time.” All the gheyo’s relaxed as they realized what Harry was doing. He was trying to qualify what he was learning with what he already knew. It was sweet, really.
“Being Gheyo is similar.” Minh offered. “Though sometimes we’ll still try and push each other even when it’s not our job.” That earned a huff of a laugh from Harry. Then he drew a sharp breath, and all of their attention turned to the Healer, and watched the skin on Harry’s shoulder finally close. Harry leaned more weight back onto Hadrian, the only real sign that he’d been in pain before. Harry tugged gently against Hadrian’s arms, a request to be released, and Hadrian complied. He was surprised then when one of Harry’s hands slid into his, and he tugged him up.
When Hadrian looked down at Harry, he watched his submissive’s gaze shift to Zandian, who was standing towards the back of the clearing, watching them but also watching the forest. Hadrian nodded, understanding. While Harry might want to bond with Minh, his instincts would stall, knowing it wasn’t the right order.
“Thanks for explaining things.” Harry offered Minh, and the Gheyo smiled, standing gracefully before putting a hand on Harry’s head. Then he was tugging Idan away, voice dropping to a low murmur in a language Harry didn’t understand. Harry gripped Hadrian’s hand, and was glad when his Alpha lead him towards the Dragel at the far end of the clearing. He had red hair, just like the Weasley’s, but instead of the more orange shades they sported, his was more actual red. At the sight of them, he stood up straight, offering Harry a warm smile.
“Hello Harry, I’m Zandian, or Zan if you’d prefer.” Harry dipped his head in greeting.
“Are you-” Harry broke off, unsure, glancing back at the rest of the clearing one last time. It was Ethan who was still watching, and who gave an encouraging nod. It sent a warm thrum through Harry’s chest. He didn’t know if he’d ever felt so seen in his life; and it was as overwhelming as it was amazing.
“Are you also a Gheyo?”
Zandian nodded, smile never dropping. “What gave me away?”
Harry shrugged at first, but when Hadrian gave his hand a small squeeze, he tried to explain. “You feel different.” Harry admitted. “Like Minh and Idan. But also like Hadrian. But not the same as any of them. But definitely not the same as Ethan or-” he flushed, realizing he didn’t even know the name of the person he’d bit after Ethan.
“Raspen is who you bonded with after Ethan.” Harry nodded, though his shoulders had come up in embarrassment.
“Right. You feel different really than them.”
“I would. Ethan is a Pareya. His skills will be more nurturing, though they are very protective in their own right. Pareya magic will feel more defensive than offensive.” Harry nodded again, though it was clear he was finding all the information overwhelming. Then he brightened. “Is that what Fred and George are? Pareya?” Both nodded. Harry’s smile was pleased, before he was frowning again. “What am I?”
Zandian dropped a hand on Harry’s head to ruffle his hair, even as Hadrian let go of his hand to curve an arm around the back of his head and shoulders.
“You’re our submissive.”
Harry’s confused chirp had a wave of amusement passing through the clearing. When Zandian opened his mouth, Hadrian cut in with a glare that only had Zandian chuckling. It wasn't his place to explain this; it was Hadrian's; and though normally he may not mind, instinct was demanding he fulfill his role as alpha to the full extent of that responsibility.
“It means you’re the heart of the circle,” Hadrian explained, gaze still sharp on Zandian. “It means we may not all be bonded with each other, but we’ll all be bonded with you. We’ll ground your magic, and you’ll ground ours as well.”
Zandian smirked, amused, and Hadrian offered a soundless snarl.
“If you’re going to fight, I don’t want to be here.” Harry cut in, and it had them both looking down at him. He was watching them both carefully, not afraid exactly, but wary. Hadrian forced himself to relax. He’d have time to settle things with Zandian later. Instinct would demand it.
“We won’t fight in front of you.” Hadrian finally said, and Harry nodded. Then he stepped towards Zandian.
“I don’t know if I’m supposed to do this in a special order, but Minh didn’t feel right.”
“He wouldn’t. You won’t want to bond to him until near the end I would guess.”
“Why?”
“Circle hierarchy. I’m Ace, so I’m the most dominant member of the Gheyo suite. It would bother both my instincts and yours if you bonded with another Gheyo first.”
Harry hummed, but it was clear he was thinking.
“What about the first one?” He looked at Hadrian. “You called him a Joker, right?”
“Yes. Joker’s are different. He’ll likely only ever bond to you. He isn’t part of the suite, and his rank is separate from the rest of the circle. Joker’s generally only bond to one member of a circle, either Alpha or Submissive.”
“Why?”
“That’s something you should let him explain,” Zandian cut in, before Hadrian could answer. Hadrian bared his teeth, but Harry nodded in agreement. Then the nerves came, because unlike with the others, he hadn’t had to think about biting them. He shifted from foot to foot, nervous, until Zandian knelt in front of him.
“I’ve noticed you prefer the neck.” Harry shrugged, glancing again at Hadrian nervously, but Hadrian just gently pushed him forward before stepping back. Zandian telegraphed his movements as he reached out, and Harry only hesitated briefly before letting himself get pulled in. “Don’t think about it, just bite.”
Harry didn’t bother answering, he couldn’t. The instinct kicked in as soon as he was close, and he struck just as quickly. When Zandian tugged him away, he tilted his neck, offering the same side he’d offered Raspen. The fact that placement said the Royal could step in as Rheyo surprised neither Hadrian or Zandian.
It was as Zandian was biting down that portals started to form; Beta, and who Hadrian now was certain was a Gheyo Prince appearing, only moments before their King arrived, twins in front of him, another child pressed close between them. A child who looked around wildly, face pale and afraid, just before his eyes narrowed in on Harry, with Zandian just pulling away, blood still on his lips.
“Harry!”
The shout was followed by a whisper through the trees that had Zandian on his feet and every Dragel on alert, but the voice had Harry spinning, eyes bright and relieved. Harry dashed across the clearing, hesitating only long enough for Neville to take a tiny step towards him, before he wrapped around the other in a hug. That Harry was more than a head shorter than his peer was only further proof that there would be hunts in the future for their Suite. When the two boys finally parted, Neville was blinking at Harry.
“You have wings.”
Harry’s laugh was bright, the first true happy sound they’d all heard from him.
“Aren’t they cool?”
Neville’s own smile was tentative, but fond.
“Now you won’t need a broom to fly.” Harry laughed again.
“That’s what I said!”
“You flew on a broom?” The tone of the question was dry, and drew both of their attention to the Gheyo at Neville’s back. It had Neville squeaking and shuffling away, though no one missed how he stayed between Harry and the Dark Fae. Wikhn just rolled his eyes.
“This school is a real piece of work.” Wikhn told Harry, but Harry only shrugged.
“Better than my relative’s house.”
That had a scowl crossing Wikhn’s face, and both twins reached out, patting an arm.
“Don’t worry,” George told him, glancing at Fred, who’s grin was sharp and wide.
“We know where they live.”
“Guys!” Harry scolded, but the twins just turned unrepentant grins on him before Fred was throwing himself forward dramatically, draping himself over both Harry and Neville.
“Oh, Harrikins, where’s the gratitude? We went all the way into your dorm room,”
“And didn’t even place a single prank on any of Ron’s things!” George continued, draping himself on Harry and Neville’s other side.
“We deserve a medal.” Fred agreed, and Harry was laughing again, shoving at both of the twins playfully.
“Get off!” He laughed, and then squawked when he overbalanced from the weight of his own wings and nearly tipped back. It was Neville who grasped Harry’s hands tightly, yanking him back upright, even as Wikhn and the Beta grabbed a twin each by the back of the neck.
“Lay off, you two.” Their Beta scolded, though there was amusement in his gaze as well. Charlie barely had time to let go of Fred before Harry was launching at him, instincts obviously having taken control as his eyes had gone slitted like a cat’s. His fangs notched into Charlie’s neck, but even as he took a mouthful of blood he was sputtering and gagging, giving off a whine though he still watched the mark form where he’d bitten. An arm was shoved in front of his face and he didn’t need to look to see it was Hadrian’s, because he could tell by scent alone. He dug his fangs in, gulping down a few mouthfuls to wash the taste from his mouth. He felt fangs against his own neck at the same time, and his own sound was muffled against Hadrian’s arm. Moments later, the bond between him and Charlie flared to life. As soon as Charlie pulled back, Harry was shifting into Hadrian, uncomfortable.
“What-?”
“They still need blood purifying rituals.”
The words earned a number of growls, as nobody had noticed the Joker appearing in the clearing. He, in turn, just raised an unimpressed brow at all of them before turning his attention back to Harry.
“Do the words, blood traitor, mean anything to you?” All three Weasley’s flinched, and the Joker nodded. “Figured. It’s nothing that can’t be solved, but you may want to wait to bond with your twins until the ritual can happen. They won’t taste any better.”
A whine left Harry’s throat before he could stop himself, and soothing rumbles from everyone came back. Hadrian shot the Joker a withering look, but the Joker only rolled his eyes in return.
“Would it hurt any of them to bond?” Hadrian asked their Healer, and though he didn’t look pleased, he shook his head. “Then it’s up to you, Harry. The only thing it will change is the taste.” Harry shot a glare at his Joker before looking at his twins.
“I don’t mind.”
The twins shared a glance, but didn’t step forward like anyone expected them too.
“We can wait, Harry.” Fred stated, but when Harry’s shoulders hunched, George spoke up. “You almost threw up after Charlie, Harry. We don’t want you to be sick.” When Harry opened his mouth to protest, it was Neville who bumped his shoulder against Harry’s, and it had Harry blinking. Then he sighed.
“Fine.” But his gaze zeroed in on Wikhn, and scales rippled. Charlie gently pulled Neville out of the way, pulling the boy against his side when he didn’t resist. When Harry launched himself at Wikhn, Neville didn’t flinch, but he did tuck himself further into Charlie’s side. He was beginning to understand what Wikhn meant about Dragel being tactile creatures. While the Weasley family had always been quick to reach out, that was usually only with each other.
“You okay, kid?”
“It’s just nice.” When Charlie hummed curiously, Neville didn’t continue right away, but by the time Wikhn was returning the bite, he spoke up. “Harry’s always wanted family, and he always wanted to be just Harry, instead of the boy-who-lived. Now he’ll have that.” Charlie hummed again, but he caught what Neville didn’t say; caught his wistfulness.
“You’re coming with us, right?”
When Neville startled and looked up at him, Charlie just raised an expectant brow.
“The twins-”
“That’s not what I meant.” Charlie interrupted firmly. He glanced around and caught sight of the one with the large black and gold wings watching them curiously. When Charlie tilted his head subtly towards the child burrowed against his side, everything about the other softened, and he started to make his way over.
“Hello,” he greeted, even as Neville struggled to figure out what he thought Charlie wanted to hear. “My name is Ethan. You must be Neville.” Neville squeaked in surprise, but didn’t try to hide away. “Will you come with me? Hadrian needs to speak with Charlie for a moment, and I can answer all of your questions.” Ethan reached out, and when Neville stepped forward, he squeaked when Ethan lifted him into his arms. It made Neville look years younger, as small as he was in Ethan’s arms, and as Ethan began to speak to him in a low soothing voice, Neville’s head slowly lowered to rest on his shoulder, exhausted by the night.
Charlie immediately turned to face the tall figure draped in shadows, with the black feathered mask. He was the tallest of them all, and there was an edge to him that was almost feral. He was also the one Charlie felt the most drawn towards, other than Harry.
“Hadrian.”
“Charlie.”
They stared at each other, and Charlie’s wings itched beneath his skin as tension built between them.
“I am Alpha. You are Beta. Do you accept?”
Hadrian expected violence - was excited for it if he was honest - and his shadows cocooned them as soon as Charlie’s wings burst from his back, a sign that Hadrian would need to prove himself a worthy Alpha for his Beta to submit.
“You’re going to have to be careful about the twins.” The words had Hadrian pausing, having expected the other to launch at him, not to sound calm and relaxed, despite his Dragel features having displayed themselves on instinct.
“Why do you say that?” Hadrian asked, though he already had an inkling.
“First, they’re as vicious as they are protective. Kids or not, they’ve got sharp minds, and they put them to use.” Hadrian nodded. He wouldn’t be one to underestimate others based on age. Not when he was one of the youngest to ever hold a blood title.
“Second, they were the first to ever notice that something wasn’t right with Harry, Neville too apparently.” At Hadrian’s look, Charlie elaborated. “They wrote to me about it. Bill and I were looking into things.” Hadrian didn’t bother asking about who the Bill was yet, but he nodded again. “It means as protective as they’re going to be about those 2, Neville and Harry will return that loyalty tenfold.” And now Hadrian understood. This wasn’t an older brother protecting his siblings. This was a Beta protecting his Alpha and circle with relevant information about their circle members. Hadrian let out a pleased rumble.
“I understand. But if Fred continues to challenge authority like that, instinct will eventually require a response. Otherwise it will create imbalance in the circle.” Charlie’s head tilted in consideration, slitted pupils fixed on Hadrian.
“Fred’s always been more aggressive. It may be necessary at some point. I’d probably follow Harry’s lead anyways.”
“You think Harry would reprimand him?” He couldn’t keep the disbelief from his tone. “Why not you?” Charlie scoffed.
“Reigning the twins in has never been my forte. But also - from what the twins and Ron have shared - even Percy - Harry’s got quite the temper. If Fred pushes too hard, Harry will push back. But we’ll all have to take his lead on what’s acceptable. Especially with the twins.” Hadrian didn’t bother to resist his own instincts anymore, gliding forward and wrapping a hand around the side of Charlie’s neck, gently tugging him forward. It was a hold the other could certainly pull free of, and Hadrian watched the consideration flash through a molten gaze, but in the end Charlie allowed himself to be pulled forward.
“I am Alpha.” Hadrian repeated, never breaking Charlie’s gaze. “You are Beta. Do you accept?”
The claws came so quickly that Hadrian barely had the chance to dodge, and as it was they grazed ribs, drawing flecks of blood. Charlie grinned, wide and bright and threatening.
“Let’s see if you deserve it.”
Hadrian’s returning grin showed just as many teeth.
>>>
When the rush of magic swept through the clearing, settling everyone even further, they knew the triad had closed their circle. Harry gave a hum around where he had his fangs notched in Minh’s neck, the scrunch of his nose from the taste of Idan’s blood smoothing out. When he pulled back, Harry tilted his own shoulder closer to Minh in offer, and briefly wondered what it looked like, the bites nearly touching, if not overlapping, from jaw to shoulder. He didn’t even flinch when Minh bit down, though the other was surprisingly gentle. Maybe it was because of how the magic seemed to settle from Hadrian and Charlie? But Harry wasn’t sure, and didn’t truly care enough to ask just then. Not when a pleased hum seemed to ring through his thoughts.
He chirped at the one with purple streaks in their hair next, the one who’d offered to get Hedwig, and though he hadn’t reappeared with her, Harry knew it was likely because Hedwig had chosen to fly on her own. She was probably going for a quick hunt before finding them.
The man - dragel? but that didn’t feel quite right either - came closer at his prompting, accepting him when he reached out, and Minh handed him over without protest.
“Prince?”
The word came from Minh, but Harry didn’t understand them. Was he a prince? But then hadn’t Minh said he was a princess? At his look at confusion, the one now holding him offered a slight smile, and Harry was enthralled when his eyes seemed to shift in colour, between different shades of pink. It reminded him of -
He glanced over, looking for his other bonded with similar eyes, Wikhn, and caught his gaze immediately. At his look, the other lifted a brow but immediately came over. Harry kept one arm hooked around the one holding him, but reached out his other hand, blushing when Wikhn rolled his eyes but crouched next to them obligingly. Harry’s touch was feather light as he traced the skin around Wikhn’s eyes, his other hand coming up to cup his soon to be bonded’s face. He chirped again and then swallowed the next sound, concentrating on words.
“I’ve never seen pink eyes before, and now I’ve seen two people,” he glanced down, feeling a little shy but also overwhelmed by all the feelings going through him, and everything around him. It had him missing the sharp look Wikhn gave the other, curious and demanding. “They’re pretty.” Harry finally murmured, and it earned a chuckle from behind him.
“They are,” Minh agreed, coming to his rescue, and Harry let out a breath of relief. “You have excellent taste, little one.”
Harry didn’t quite understand that, but he finally gave in to instinct, biting down when the one holding him shifted his head just enough to show Harry he was welcome. His blood tasted different; almost fizzy, and when Harry pulled back he giggled before hiding his face in his hands in embarrassment. He didn’t stop himself from being shifted around though, and relaxed into the bite placed just below Minh’s. When the bond was sealed, thrumming happily between them, Harry looked back up.
“What’s-”
“Devrim.” came the immediate answer at his hesitation.
“Devrim.” Harry repeated. “I’m Harry.” it earned him a nod, and another small smile, and had Harry pulling away, because instinct demanded it of him. There were four people in the clearing he’d somehow called but not yet bonded to. It made something in his chest itch and ache.
He didn’t care what anyone said. They wouldn’t be leaving until he’d sealed them. He looked around the clearing, catching sight of his twins standing near Ethan, who surprisingly held Neville in his arms. Neville seemed to be asleep, or nearly so, but it didn’t matter. Harry needed to check on his friend. It also helped that it put him closer to the twins.
The Gheyo let him go as he wandered away, Wikhn rising to follow, though not before giving Devrim a look that told him Wikhn expected an explanation.
When Wikhn turned back to tail Harry, he realized taking even that moment had distracted him too long.
Really, they should’ve seen this coming.
Though he’d been angling towards Ethan and his friend, as soon as Harry was near enough he launched himself at the twins, who were also instinct driven enough to catch him instead of trying to avoid him.
Wikhn wasn’t at all surprised that Harry was doing this, in fact, he was more surprised that the boy was subtler than expected, having enough control over his instincts to have known to make it seem like his attention was elsewhere. He saw Quinn storming towards the trio, and caught the healer around the waist, pulling him flush.
‘Wikhn!’ The words paired with how Quinn struggled to be let go clearly demonstrated his frustration, but Wikhn didn’t let him go.
“He needs this. And he’s left you and the mage for last. He’ll be fine.” The words had both their attention switching briefly to the mage who stood with Raspen, both of their attention on Harry, but it was unlikely their tiny submissive was the subject of their discussion if Raspen’s frown was anything to go by.
The simmering magic of two more fire bonded in the circle returned their attention to Harry and his twins, who were both fussing over Harry who was smiling and batting their hands away. Wikhn noticed the slight scrunch of his nose though, despite his bright smile. Recognized it from when he’d sealed the bond with Idan. His gaze returned to the air Queen before finding their Ace. Zandian was already watching him in return, and he both felt instincts bristle and settle at the fact that he’d been being watched, but also that the Ace he was supposed to call his already knew he wanted his attention.
Wikhn dipped his chin ever so slightly down to the grumpy healer in his arms, then flicked his gaze towards the air Queen. Zandian’s head tipped to the side, curious, his own gaze moving to their Queen. The shift was so quick and you’d miss it, but then Zandian was standing and strolling towards where Wikhn was standing, easily transferring the healer from Wikhn’s grip into his own. Quinn sputtered, but Zandian kept his gaze on Wikhn, a smirk quirking up one side of his mouth.
“Good King.” He rumbled, and Wikhn scowled, if only to fight off his desire to preen. He didn’t preen. Zandian’s chuckle sent a shiver down his spine, but then his Ace was nodding towards their submissive, even as he started carting their healer towards the rest of the suite. Wikhn didn’t have to know that Zandian was speaking in a low tone to explain what he wanted, because Quinn almost immediately stopped fighting, his own attention turning on the suite.
Satisfied, Wikhn turned his own attention back to Harry and the twins, and noticed what Zandian must have. Harry’s attention was already distracted away from the twins, but the nerves had also overtaken instinct again, especially as he was so far from the second-to-last he needed to bond.
Wikhn didn’t want to put Harry under any pressure - in fact, that was one of the last things he wanted to do - but he also did not want to stay near this poor excuse of a school any longer. And something about these woods - they didn’t feel right. Not being an Earth Dragel himself, he had no idea if the feeling was because there was actually something wrong with the woods, or if it was just instincts not wanting his soul scream circle to be out in the open.
Either way, he wanted out, and he wanted out now. But he also knew that settled instincts was the best way to ensure safer travel.
With that in mind, he strode towards Harry, scooping him up in his arms before moving right towards their mage and Raspen. It showed how unsettled Harry was feeling that he didn’t protest as he had earlier, instead taloned fingers curled into the edges of armour for balance, gaze already caught on their mage.
Wikhn barely even had to shift Harry forward for his submissive to launch forward, caught easily by their Mage. There was a moment where Wikhn almost stepped in - where it looked like the Mage was going to protest - but when Harry warbled in nervous confusion, Riven tilted his chin in invitation. Harry bit without any further hesitation.
Wikhn hid his surprise when Riven placed his mark above the Pareya’s, opposite where the Gheyo’s had all chosen. Unusual for a Mage, but not unheard of.
Then Harry was squirming to be put down, bouncing on the balls of his feet as luminescent green eyes darted around the clearing, finally honing in on the last member to be bonded. He darted forward, every step practically sparking from the bleed off of storm magic, which was luckily distracting enough to catch everyone’s attention so that Quinn wasn’t surprised to have their young submissive pounce on him from the side. He managed to shift enough to catch him instead of be bowled over, and didn’t hesitate to tilt his neck to the side, offering Harry’s obviously preferred space.
Outside of when he was being healed, Wikhn was fairly certain it was the first time Quinn had willingly bared his neck to anyone. The Healer placed his mark below the Pareya, edges brushing the one next to it.
The ripple of magic that spread through the clearing when the final bond between submissive and his circle was complete, had all of them relaxing. It also had the shadowed dome that had surrounded Alpha and Beta coming down, both sporting new claim marks and looking distinctly rumpled.
Wikhn smirked.
He wouldn’t deny that that was something he was looking forward.
His gaze cut between their Alpha and Ace, and wondered if their bonding would be something the suite would be able to watch. After all, the fights between the other two bonded blood titles was something to behold.
With a murmur to their Beta that had the man’s face flushing, Wikhn watched their Alpha offer a smirk before his expression became unreadable, partially thanks to the mask covering his face, and partially because he obviously now had enough control over his instincts to not be fully controlled by them.
“Harry?” the request was soft, something Wikhn hadn’t expected based on all the rumours floating around the current Shadow Blood Title; not the least of which was that he had been contracted under the Cunningham circle. The offered hand was palm up, and it only took a moment before Harry crept forward to accept. Next to Hadrian, he looked impossibly small. It only made Wikhn wish they’d had more time with the creature that had triggered Harry’s inheritance and scream.
“We need to make some decisions.” Hadrian began, glancing around at all of them. “We need to find somewhere to rest, we need to do full introductions, and we need to consider where we’re going to stay in the short term until long term accommodations can be sorted.” The tug to Hadrian’s hand wasn’t subtle and drew most attention to Harry, but he had eyes only for Hadrian.
“I’ve got a lot of money.” He murmured, blush reaching all the way to the tips of his ears. “My parents - well, my dad, he was a lord, or something.” Harry shrugged, even more embarrassed, and looking to Charlie and the twins for help. He thought they’d know more about this then he did. Unfortunately, the twins could only shrug, and Charlie shook his head.
“You’re dad was heir to the Potter lordship, but I don’t know if he ever took it up.”
“He did.”
Harry’s attention whipped to Neville, who was set to his feet in front of Ethan, rubbing sleepily at his eyes.
“How do you know?”
“We - we’re technically god-brothers.” Neville said, blushing just as fiercely as Harry as he scuffed his shoes against the ground.
“We are?” There was no missing the hope in Harry’s voice, and Hadrian offered his hand a squeeze. The hope also had Neville looking up and nodding.
“My mom’s your godmother, and yours was mine.”
“Is?” The question came from Minh, and had Neville flinching back.
“M-My m-m-mom-” Harry turned to hiss at Minh, even as Charlie moved back towards the other boy, rubbing a hand through Neville’s hair to interrupt him.
“Neville’s parents aren’t able to take care of anyone right now.” The words were harsh, but the tone was gentle, as was the hand in Neville’s hair. “What were you saying about Harry’s parents?”
Neville’s look was grateful, leaning into the touch, before he continued, hands wringing in front of him.
“Harry’s dad, he did take up his Lordship, and he made Harry his heir.” Neville’s gaze darted to the three Weasley’s, obviously wary of how his next words might be taken. Then his gaze fixed back on Harry. “Gran said - she said you’re also heir Black.” Charlie sucked in a breath, looking at Neville.
“You’re sure?” It was clear he wasn’t angry, and Neville gave the barest of nods. Charlie ruffled his hair again before looking at Hadrian. “How would you feel about speaking with some Goblins?” that raised some eyebrows.
“Our circle has no quarrel with Goblins,” was the response after a look at everyone, and it was clear the words meant something more, but Charlie shrugged it off.
“Great. Then I suggest we make for Gringotts. They’re neutral territory anyways, and we can get everything sorted. If Harry is heir Potter and heir Black - well, let’s just say he’s probably one of the richest wixen on Earth.”
“What?” Harry squeaked, blushing further. “But that’s - it’s impossible!”
“There’s nothing wrong with being an heir,” Charlie replied calmly. Far more calmly than would be expected for a Fire Dragel. “In fact, Bill is Heir Weasley, and technically the twins are the Prewett Heirs.”
“The what?” That was Zandian, speaking up for the first time in the group at large, stepping forward, giving all three Weasley’s a clear once over. “Did you say Prewett?” It was Charlie who nodded, though no one missed how Fred took a clear step in front of George, and George had edged so he could put himself between Neville and the rest if necessary. A curious action, since Zandian was in no way acting threatening. It said a lot about how all of them expected adults to behave about news they may not like.
“Our uncles, on our mother’s side. Gideon and Fabian Prewett. Mum said they died in the war. Named the twins after them.”
“Your mother wouldn’t happen to be named Mollandria, would she?” Charlie frowned.
“Molly, actually.” A look was shared between Zandian, Hadrian, and Raspen, and it had a low growl vibrating out of Fred.
It was Wikhn who stepped out of the shadows behind the growling twin, dropping an arm around his shoulders. It had Fred’s head snapping around to snap fangs, but Wikhn just smirked, flicking him on the nose. It earned a giggle from Harry, who immediately clapped a hand over his mouth. It also did the trick of snapping Fred out of his instincts.
“If Zandian knows them, they’re probably good people.” Wikhn murmured to Fred, even as Charlie steered the conversation back on track to visiting the Goblins. Fred turned eyes that flashed with flames on Wikhn.
“How do you know?”
“Unlike some of us,” Wikhn noted, tone teasing, “Zandian is one of the good ones. Volunteers for charities and children when he’s not training.” Fred’s eyebrows drew together.
“You make it sound like a bad thing.” Wikhn’s smirk grew into a grin that flashed fang.
“Do I look like someone who volunteers at charity?”
For a moment, Fred’s gaze went flat, then a wicked humour lit his gaze.
“You know, even though Harry gets in lots of trouble for breaking the rules, it’s always because he’s trying to help someone.” Wikhn blinked before he huffed out a laugh, amused by the implied threat.
“Touché, kid.”
A splash of water behind where Harry stood and to the left was the only announcement of the Merrow rejoining them, catching Fred’s attention and curiosity, relaxing him even further. Quinn moved right over, offering a hand, palm up and fingers splayed in an obvious offer. The Merrow immediately pressed his fingers to Quinn’s, accepting the knowledge transfer.
“Circle up.” Hadrian’s commanding tone had Wikhn gently tugging Fred towards where their Alpha stood, keeping an arm hooked around him.
“Later.” Wikhn promised, seeing his curiosity, and Fred subsided, sinking into his side.
A flash of white was in the air, and a low hoot, and moments before the magic of the circle could take, a Snowy owl landed on Harry’s outstretched arm. Boy and owl nuzzled at each other, reunited.
The the shadows reached up and swallowed them whole, leaving the forest empty.
>>>
When the magic deposited them, they were in a gilded hall with a single Goblin sitting at a tall podium.
“Name and business.” The Goblin requested as soon as the magic faded. Charlie stepped forward before anyone else could.
“Master Goblin,” He sketched a small bow before offering a charming grin. “May your gold ever flow.”
“Mr. Weasley. I see you’ve been taking lessons in Goblin culture from heir Weasley.” Charlie’s grin only grew sharper.
“You know us too well.” The Goblin gave a hum.
“Rocksinger, at your service. What business do you and your Circle have with us today, Mr. Weasley?” The acknowledgement of their Circle told them all enough about the Dragel relationship with Goblins for those who’d been on edge to relax ever so slightly.
“We’re planning a relocation.” Charlie said easily, waving Hadrian and Harry forward. Hedwig immediately relocated to Neville, startling the boy, but he reached up to gently stroke her feathers. The Goblin’s eyes narrowed at the sight of Harry.
“Heir Potter-Black.”
“Master Rocksinger.” Harry offered, copying Charlie, though he didn’t bow. The Goblin gave another hum.
“I imagine you want to take your assets with you.”
Harry looked up at Hadrian, and now it was Raspen who stepped forward. There was no missing the surprise on the Goblin’s features, though he schooled it quickly.
“I would like a full accounting of everything under Harry’s name.” Then he turned to look at Harry. “I would be happy to go through it all with you, but for now, would you mind if I handled the transfer?”
Harry was nodding before Raspen was finished his question.
“Please.”
Raspen offered a smile and a hand through Harry’s hair in answer before turning back to the Goblin.
“All communications and transfers to Nevarah will come through me.”
“Understood.” He reached into the podium and produced a number of papers, offering them and a pitch black quill to Raspen.
“Please read these forms. Then both Harry and yourself must sign them, to confirm your identity, and to validate the use of you as proxy.”
Raspen nodded, but his gaze was on the quill. Then his expression cleared.
“This quill will draw blood.”
“Correct. You will feel an itch in your hand when you sign, however this will heal immediately after the names are signed. You are also welcome to clean the quill of any magical residue after use.”
“My thanks.” Raspen inclined his head, which the Goblin returned. Then he started looking over the paperwork. Ethan was quick to join him, and Harry watched, curious, as they murmured back in forth, checking each detail.
A moment later, Raspen was signing with a flourish before presenting the parchment and quill to Harry.
“Would you also like to read it?”
Harry shook his head. He had a bit of a headache, and he was so tired he really just wanted to find somewhere to curl up and sleep, but he understood these things needed to happen before that.
“I trust you.” Even saying the words felt unreal, but they were truer than Harry had ever expected. So he took the quill, and signed his name, only wincing slightly at the irritating scraping feeling over his hand. As soon as he’d signed his name, the hand he’d used was taken by Ethan, who ran a finger over the back of it, soothing magic sweeping over his skin. Harry offered a chirp of thanks, and before he could think twice had turned to reach up for Hadrian. He froze as soon as his brain caught up with the action, but Hadrian had swooped him up into his arms before Harry had a chance to change his mind, tucking Harry’s head under his chin.
“You can sleep if you need to. We’ll wake you for the portal to Nevarah.”
Though he didn’t quite know what that all meant, Harry knew he was tired. He also knew he was perfectly safe.
Moments later, he was fast asleep.
>>>
“He’s adorable.” Minh purred, draped over Idan’s shoulders, gaze fixed on where Harry had curled up in Hadrian’s arms. Idan hummed in agreement, though his gaze was flickering between their Merrow and Ace. Fire Ace, specifically. With 3 other fire bonded.
So far, Harry’s Merrow hadn’t completely avoided the fire types, except for the blood title. Though it was difficult to tell if the Merrow was avoiding their Ace, or if the Ace was avoiding the Merrow. After all, Zandian’s gaze hadn’t once turned towards the Merrow.
That wasn’t to say nobody had noticed their Merrow - in fact, Idan was certain that the Joker had paid more attention than strictly necessary. Though, based on their colouring, that didn’t come as a complete surprise.
While the feathers and attitude implied something avian, the colours did not. The only other Idan had seen with similar feathers was the Phoenix, but she was a clear fire type, and the colouring of her feathers supported that, much as scales did. The Joker on the other hand - his feathers were all blue and white.
Idan was betting a Water affinity at the least.
He wondered if the Merrow had noticed yet - though by his lack of acknowledgement of almost anyone other than Submissive, Alpha, Healer, Royal, and head Pareya, it was doubtful.
Teal eyes suddenly met his own, scowling and quirking a brow in demand.
Well.
Idan couldn’t resist a smirk of his own, ignoring Minh’s whine in his ear, demanding what had caught his attention. His smirk had the Merrow’s scowl deepening before he flicked his hair over his shoulder, deliberately turning his back on them. Their Alpha moving had Idan’s gaze leaving the Merrow, focusing on where Hadrian was moving towards their Beta, who’d stepped aside to slump against the wall.
As soon as he noticed Hadrian approaching, he pushed off the wall, smile forming. Idan couldn’t tell what changed; whether it was words, or just a look, or a gesture hidden by Hadrian’s body, but Charlie’s smile faltered and fell, and exhaustion and perhaps worse pain, etched it’s way onto his features.
“All those Earth-born - they’re too good at hiding pain.” Minh murmured in his ear, obviously having noticed something similar to what he did. Idan’s response was to touch his temple to Minh’s, not looking away from the Alpha-Beta pair, but he felt Minh’s focus turn elsewhere. “Harry’s with Zandian.” Minh continued, voice low enough not to carry, and Idan let him continue reporting on the others on the room, keeping his attention focused. Minh was right - those they’d picked up on Earth were too good at hiding their pain. But there was also something about all of them - how there was only acceptance in the face of all this change - that told Idan they could make this all work.
>>>
Fred glared up at the ceiling, mind whirling. He could feel George beside him, both physically in the press of their shoulders and mentally, in the way he was clearly watching and cataloging everything going on around them.
Fred left him to it because his own mind was elsewhere; needed to be elsewhere.
Like how did Charlie, George and him all have some sort of creature inheritance? And Fred wasn't as clueless to pureblood stuff as people assumed based on his being a Weasley, and he knew it wasn't uncommon for pureblood lines to have some sort of creature blood mixed in way up the line.
But he also knew that any manifestations generally happened at magical maturity. And Charlie? Charlie was past that. He wasn't so worried about himself and George - after all, Harry had called to them, and how could they not answer? But they were younger. That seemed less dangerous, in a way.
Charlie though. Charlie was too old, but if he'd been called, and turned into a Dragel like the rest of them, that meant it had always been there. Which meant something else was at play.
He thought of what Zandian had asked - about the Prewitts - and about theoretically knowing their uncles as well. Because it had to be their uncles. And Mollandria? Yeah, 'Molly' was not that creative, all things considered.
So that meant their Mum knew what they were; was what they were. But they'd never had any idea.
Which meant -
A fist thunked on the top of his head, gentler than he expected but firm all the same, and he snapped out of his thoughts even as he snarled at the one who'd touched him. His eyes focused and found Wikhn watching him, expression visibly unimpressed, and Fred slid a look at George who had been distracted by Zandian and Harry.
When Fred looked back to Wikhn, the Gheyo looked right back, patient. The grumble that came out of Fred's chest wasn't a sound he expected, but it seemed to relax Wikhn, who just rumbled back, somehow setting Fred at ease right back.
This whole Dragel thing was absolutely batty, but he was kind of loving it.
"Why didn't she tell us?" When Wikhn's brow creased in confusion, Fred continued. "She must be Dragel too, right? We can't be Dragel without Dragel parents, and the Prewitts are too much coincidence."
Wikhn's head tilted in consideration, obviously understanding now.
"You think she hid it on purpose?"
"When he was helping us with," Fred waved purposefully at his whole self, "Quinn said Dragel inherit at 16." Wikhn nodded. "Charlie's 19."
They both turned their attention to Charlie, who was leaning against Hadrian, their heads bent together as they murmured back and forth. Pieces were clicking together for Wikhn, and he was inclined to agree with Fred's assessment. He looked back at the Pareya, curious.
"Why would she do it?" Fred shrugged, aura shifting to a sort of simmering aggression that Wikhn understood well.
"Does it matter?"
"That depends." When he didn't immediately elaborate, Fred's eyes fluxed in frustration, narrowing on the Gheyo. Wikhn relented, amused. "It depends on what you want to do about it. Seals can be for all sorts of reasons; protection being a common one. If she thought you were in danger," he shrugged, leaving the implication there. If anything, it only seemed to increase Fred's aggression.
"If Harry hadn't almost died this never would've happened and we would've been alone, and never known." There was grief swimming under all the anger, and it didn't surprise Wikhn at all that George returned to his twin's side, pressing their shoulders together.
While it was clear to Wikhn that Fred was the vicious one, and George the more cautious, there was a sharpness about George now that said he was more than willing to bring out the claws when it was his own hurting.
"Is there a special way Dragel's send messages? I think it's about time we send our dearest Mum a message."
Fred looked at his twin, expression twisting into something both gleeful and almost cruel.
"Oh, Georgie, why didn't I think of that?" George rolled his eyes, nudging his twin, but some of the tension left his frame. He watched Wikhn expectantly.
Wikhn responded by twisting his hand to perform the necessary spell to create a message bubble in front of the twins.
"What's her name?"
"Molly Weasley." Wikhn nodded.
"Urgent message for Molly Weasley, immediate vicinity, from Fred and George Weasley." Wikhn announced to the bubble, before nodding to the twins. They looked at each other, and it was unsurprising to Wikhn that Fred stepped forward, staring hard into the bubble.
"We know," Fred's tone was cold. "We're with Charlie, and we're leaving." Then he stepped back and nodded to Wikhn, who immediately released the bubble to be sent.
Wikhn was surprised when Fred slumped into him, immediately shifting to catch his weight, but was less surprised when George copied his twin a moment later when he saw Fred wasn't rejected.
"Can you explain the whole splash-y water thing now?" Fred asked, and Wikhn huffed, but did as asked.
"It was a Merrow portal…"