Happy Hunting
Dinner with Kalzik Circle
Dinner with the Kalzik family had been a lot of fun. They had gone to a large open field just outside of all of the bustle of the Hunt. They had all spread out and introduced each other before sitting down to a large picnic dinner. Harry's Merrow had come with them all after Goonter had been taken home. The only one that didn't join them was Peryton. He had promised his sister that he would join her after the introductions for a few meetings that needed to take place.
Harry's Gheyo had all spread around and were visiting a little but were mostly guarding them. Apparently, the Kalzik family didn't really have Gheyo other than Bharin. Harry thought it was a bit weird but he figured that was only because his circle was so full of Gheyo and he didn't know how he would manage without them. Another thing he noted was that almost every daughter they had was a twin. Just like Parvati and Padma had said. The only one that wasn't was Quinn's sister Dyshoka who was there with a woman that Harry recognized as Wikhn's previous Ace. It made him want to keep Wikhn close.
The King had picked up on it and was currently sitting behind Harry with the Submissive sitting between his legs and leaning up against him. Wikhn found it didn't bother him as much as he thought it would to be around Dahlia. He missed her and what they had together for sure. But it was dimmed by the happiness and love that he shared with Harry.
Getting to know Quinn's parents was exciting and kind of in a way reminded Harry of the chaos of the Burrow. Everyone talked over everyone else. Siblings were pranking each other at every opportunity. Hiram kind of reminded Harry of Arthur in the way that he was calm, kind, and clearly the boss. He also radiated an auror that screamed authority. Harry loved his hugs as much as he loved Lucius and Severus's hugs.
Patrick reminded Harry of Remus. Fun and ready to stir mischief when the opportunity presented itself but also with the capacity to be the most stern of the three parents. Also, his magic was so similar to Quinn's magic that Harry was instantly calm around him.
Surajini was just as warm and kind as she had been when Harry had first met her. She hugged him a lot and was continuously handing Harry more food to eat. He was going to be so full he was sick when he left there.
"So have you thought about a Bonding Ceremony? or at least a Celebration," Surajini asked.
"Jini we told you.." Patrick started but Jini waved them off. Harry smiled and shook his head.
"Honestly, it isn't even something that anyone has brought up. We have spent so much time settling our bonds with each other and learning our new normal that it hasn't been thought about. It's really just been one thing after another," Harry told her. Surajini looked over to Lily, Lucius, and Narcissa.
"Have you and your circle discussed it?" The Submissive asked.
"No, we haven't. Like Harry said we have all been settling in. We have two foster children we are helping navigate this new world as well as finding two lost bond mates, and preparing for The Hunt," Lucius stated.
"Could I? Throw one, I mean," Surajini asked them all. Harry could feel the waves of excitement rolling off of her. This was something she really wanted to do. "I don't want to overstep and as the parents of the Submissive it is your place to do it. But I truly would love to throw one for them. It would be no trouble."
Mama, I don't know if that is a good idea Quinn said.
"Why not?" Harry asked him. "I think a celebration to acknowledge our bonding would be great." Harry turned to Surajini. "You are welcome to spearhead a celebration. I would only ask that you involve as many of the other families that would like to help. Whether it is with money, ideas, or anything else. I am sure a lot of families have been imagining their children's bonding just like you have." Surajini looked so happy that Harry knew he had made the right decision.
"Are you sure?" She asked him. Harry nodded. Surajini turned to Lily again. "I wouldn't mind if you wanted to run the planning of everything, it is your right as his bearer."
"I honestly don't know the first thing about through a celebration of that magnitude and importance. You probably have far more experience than I do and are more familiar with Dragel traditions. So I am happy to allow you to run things. But please, we want to be involved with every step of the process. We want to help in every way that we can," Lily told her. She would do anything to make Harry happy and he looked more than happy to allow the other Submissive this.
"Oh, and one more thing I would like to suggest please," Harry spoke up. "I would ask that you wait at least a few weeks so that I have the opportunity to add more of the bonded I am hunting for. I would feel bad if we had a celebration too soon and then I added more bonded afterward. I want to celebrate everyone. Even those not with me yet."
Are you sure you want to let her do this? Mama can be a bit much sometimes Quinn brought up. Harry could feel that he would love to let his mother do this for them but he was afraid she would overwhelm Harry.
"Yes, I am sure. I am sure she has had your bonding celebration planned out since you were born. Besides she is literally the first person who has brought it up. I can feel how much this means to her," Harry insisted. "Besides I would love to opportunity to celebrate how happy you all make me." Quinn smiled at him brightly and leaned in to kiss him in thanks.
"Thank you, Harry. This means a lot to me. I will get with you all later to get contact information from everyone's families. I will make sure that anyone who wants to be involved is. This is going to be The Event for our family this Season," Surajini exclaimed. She stood up and pulled Harry up into her arms. She squeezed him tightly and then did the same to Quinn before she took off toward some of her Pareya with Lily in tow.
"You have made her entire week," Hiram pointed out with a small smile. Harry could feel waves of affection and pride coming from him directed toward him and Quinn. Harry loved it. He loved accidentally doing things that caused people to be proud of him it was still something he was getting used to. Wikhn squeezed him and placed a gentle kiss on his neck.
The dinner was interrupted when suddenly there was a quake that shook everything in a bad way. Wikhn wrapped his arms tightly around Harry and all of the Gheyo were suddenly on high alert. Message bubbles began to appear everywhere.
A breach. Something has happened to the wards around Nevarah. People were hurt and Fabrine were attacking. They were calling for medics, healers, and Gheyo. Patrick, Quinn's sire, came over to them.
"We are all responding. Those too young are porting home so they are safe behind our wards. You are welcome to join them, Harry," Patrick offered. Harry shook his head.
"Thank you so much for the offer, Sir. My circle would feel more comfortable if I was safe behind our wards. Go safely," Harry replied. Then they were organizing and porting away. Hadrian, Glynn, and Bill came striding to him. Harry went into Bill's arms.
"All of us are going home, Glynn's suite is going to come home with us to guard us. Hadrian and the rest are going to fight. They will be home as soon as they can afterward," Bill told them all. Harry nodded.
"When the breach is handled and it is settled we must report to Lord Aiden. There will be a Hunt tonight for the Fabrine that made it through and will be hiding in Nevarah. It will not be safe to be out tonight. Harry you will have to come with us. You do not have to Hunt but you must report to Lord Aiden. Do you understand?" Hadrian asked him. Harry nodded.
"Do your duty and make me proud. But come home to me when it is done. If you die I will have Lady Death bring you back just so that I can kill you again myself. Fight well, my own," Harry told them. They each kissed him and then they were porting away. Those that were left ported home. Draco and his circle minus his Ace, King, and Queen were already waiting for them when they arrived home. They had joined Harry's Gheyo at the breach. Their parental circle joined them at their home as well. Their entire Suite had chosen to join the others at the breach.
Harry went upstairs to let Ethan and Mistral help him change out of his Hunt clothes and into a flexi suite and armor that Glynn had taken him to get as a courting gift. It would be his first chance to wear it.
"You want to Hunt, don't you?" Bill asked from the doorway. Harry smiled up at him and nodded.
"Will you let me? I will follow whatever rules you all set for me so that you feel comfortable. I swear it. Please? My skin has been itchy and I can feel the dark energy in the air like ants biting across my skin. I want to do this so badly," Harry pleaded with his Alpha. Bill sighed and pulled Harry into his arms.
"I don't know how much I like this, Trouble. I know your instincts are going to be different than mine because you are Ferros. And I don't want to smother or stifle you. I do however want you to be safe and protected. So Hadrian and I will lay out rules for you to follow since he will be with you tonight. You will follow them to the letter or we will not do this again. No matter how prettily you beg. Do you understand?" Bill asked him. Harry smiled up at him and squeezed him tighter.
"Thank you, Alpha. I promise and I understand," Harry agreed.
"That is only if Hadrian agrees," Bill said finally. Harry nodded. He would convince his Ace if he needed to. The four of them headed back downstairs to join the others. Harry quickly realized that there were a few more Gheyo here than there were supposed to be.
"Alec, who are they?" Harry pointed to the two Merrow that were speaking to Glynn. Alec wrapped his arms around Harry and pressed a kiss to his head.
"They were sent by your Uncle. He wanted to offer us a bit more security just in case. You never know who might try to take advantage of this situation to cause problems," Alec answered him.
"Do you know them?" Harry asked. Both of them were quite handsome. Neither had bonding marks either. Alec chuckled.
"Would you like to meet them? It is your right to know those who are guarding you," Alec countered. Harry nodded and grinned. Alec led Harry to where the three Gheyo were talking. "Ace, our curious troublemaker wants to meet the nice Gheyo." Harry was then pressed into Glynn's arms and Alec walked away after kissing Harry on the cheek. Harry blushed and then rolled his eyes.
"Submissive mine, I would like to introduce you to Tempest. He is a Gheyo King," Glynn introduced the first man. He was pale blue and didn't have fluted ears. His hair was also more purple than blue. and his eyes were a violet that reminded Harry of his storm Gheyo. So not full Merrow. The Gheyo bowed low.
"Highness, it is an honor to guard you," Tempest stated. Harry sighed and then smiled.
"Please, just Harry is fine. I was not brought up royal or anything near it. Honestly, it makes me a bit uncomfortable. So please just Harry," Harry insisted. The Gheyo King nodded and grinned.
"Very well, just Harry. It is very nice to meet you. Your introduction today was quite impressive," Tempest offered. Harry blushed and nodded.
"Thank you, I worked really hard on it. I didn't want to disappoint my bonded," Harry admitted. Glynn looked down at him with a frown.
"Why would you ever think we would be disappointed by you?" The Ace asked. Harry shrugged.
"You are all so powerful and impressive. Very lovely and I just wanted to make you proud of me. I want to be a submissive worthy of all of you," Harry said quietly. Glynn looked him straight in the eyes and clicked his tongue at him.
"Kitten, you could never disappoint us. You are powerful, impressive, and lovely all on your own. It is us who need to prove that we are worthy of you. Never forget that you are our heart and that you are perfect for us just as you are. You could have simply walked and nothing else and we would have been perfectly satisfied and proud. Do you understand, Love?" Glynn asked seriously. Harry searched his eyes and tested their bond for any deceit but all he felt was complete sincerity. Harry smiled and nodded. He trilled up at Glynn and then pressed a kiss to his jaw. Glynn kissed his lips softly and then turned him back around to be introduced to the next man.
This man was bulkier and seemed wilder than the other. He was a pure Merrow and was littered with scars that he wore with pride. Harry liked the feel of him. He liked it very much. He tried really hard to keep the soft chirp from leaving his lips but he didn't quite succeed. There was just something about him that Harry needed. It was like when he had met Donovan but far more intense. This Merrow was supposed to be his. He could feel it. The Merrow stepped closer and bowed but never took his eyes off of Harry's.
"I am Varon, Princeling. I am a Merrow Joker and part of Crimson Tide. I am happy to guard you," The Merrow spoke before Glynn could introduce him. His voice was deep and filled with promises of things Harry couldn't quite put his hands on. It made Harry shiver visibly. Varon held out his hand and Harry placed his much much smaller hand into the Joker's. He brought it to his face and pressed a tender kiss to the inside of Harry's wrist before slipping a beautiful bracelet with an emerald dangling from it onto Harry's wrist.
Harry blushed furiously and pulled his hand back to look at the pretty, delicate bracelet that held the jewel that he knew would match his eyes perfectly. He looked back up at the Joker.
"It matches my eyes," Harry stated while looking the Merrow in his deep blue almost black eyes. He nodded.
"I chose it for you because it matched your lovely eyes. I was part of the guard in attendance when you met with our Queen. I have been unable to think of anything other than you since the moment I saw you. I would like the honor of courting you. Our King and your Father already know that I intended to approach you. It is why I was sent to guard you. I planned to wait and approach you after I had proven myself worthy but I could not wait. Will you accept my favor and allow me the honor of convincing you that I am meant to be yours?" Varon asked. Harry nodded.
"Yes, I will let you court me if that is your wish. But I don't need to be convinced that you are mine. I can feel it. I know you are mine," Harry told him firmly. Varon looked supremely pleased and his lips turned up ever so slightly. Harry figured the man didn't smile often and was fine with it. Alec walked back up to them then. He noticed the bracelet and saw the way that Harry was watching the Joker. He chuckled and stepped closer to inspect it.
"It is very pretty, Kitten. Did your Lovely Joker finally decide to approach you? Your father warned me earlier that a Crimson Tide Joker had been pining," Alec teased. Harry blushed and the Joker rolled his eyes.
"Yes, he can court me proper if he likes but he is already mine," Harry said darting his eyes between the Joker and Alec. Alec chuckled again and looked over Harry's head to Glynn.
"So another open soulbond," Alec stated. Harry nodded even though it wasn't a question. "Well, the Pareya are fussing. They want everyone together in the sitting room until the rest are home. So come along, Loveling." Harry frowned and looked back at Varon. Alec nipped his ear. "He is here to guard our home until the others return. Let him do his job. He will come back to you before he leaves and you all can work out anything else after that." Harry trilled sadly still looking at Varon. His Dragel did not want Varon away from him. He knew the Joker was his but he wasn't claimed someone could take him from him. Harry was distressed and no one wanted that.
"What is it?" Bill asked as he walked up. Harry chirped, trilled, and mewled up at his Alpha. Bill chuckled. "The Joker, huh?" Bill turned to see that the Joker, while standing perfectly still and waiting to see what the others decided, still looked like he was strung tight and ready to snatch Harry up the moment he was allowed or no one was paying attention. It seemed like both of their instincts were riding very close to the surface. So an open soulbond. He gently pushed Harry into the Joker's arms who pulled him close and nuzzled his hair and neck. Harry just melted and purred at the attention.
"What about the patrol?" Glynn asked with a smile. He hadn't actually needed the extra help he just wanted to see what the Alpha had to say about it.
"It's over. The breach has been sealed and the fighting is done. The healers have taken over and even then, that is almost wrapped up. Hadrian and some of the others will be home soon. Riven is staying with Quinn until he is free to come home," Bill announced. Harry trilled still in the Joker's arms.
"It's over? They are coming home?" Harry asked just to see if he had heard right. Bill nodded. "So does that mean that it is time to go to Death's Court?" Harry asked. Varon paused in his nuzzling.
"You are going to Death's Court tonight? You intended to be involved in the Reaping?" The Joker asked. Harry looked at Bill excitedly who sighed and nodded.
"Yes, Bill says I can go but I must stay with my Gheyo. I am not allowed to fight without one of them with me at all times. I must remember that I am important and if I don't behave or I put myself at unnecessary risk I will not be allowed to join a Reaping again for at least three years while I work on building up my skill," Harry repeated. Bill and Theo had already pulled him aside when they had first gotten home to discuss it. They knew Harry was going to want to go and fight. It was part of being a Ferros.
"Will you allow me to join you? I would like the opportunity to prove my skills to you," Varon asked. Before Harry could answer another answered for him.
"If you join us you will follow my lead. Harry will be everyone's first priority. The Fabrine will be easy enough to deal with, they always are. This is a good opportunity for Harry to test himself in a safe way. So you are welcome to join us and welcome to show off as long as you remember that Harry's life and safety come first. This will be an opportunity for all of us to show off and once he is noticed by others, they will take the opportunity to show out as well. He was very well received during his walk today especially since it is known he is hunting for Gheyo," Hadrian said as he strode up to them. Harry could tell that his bonded were already riding a battle high. He could see it in the way that their eyes almost glowed and the vicious grins on their faces. He could feel the battle lust through their bonds and it made his skin itch in a pleasant way.
Pretty quickly he was covered in scales and sporting fangs and claws. He was nearly vibrating in Varon's arms. The Joker rumbled at him at the same time that others of his bonded did as well. His hunger and excitement to join the fight was quite obvious to them and it was intoxicating.
"Beautiful and vicious. Lovely," Varon growled and tightened his arms around Harry. Harry purred up at him and tilted his head to the side so that he could be nuzzled more.
"So he stumbled across another open soulbond," Donovan chuckled. Bill nodded. "His reaction to him is much more intense than it was with me." He didn't say it in a way that showed any kind of jealousy he was merely curious as to why.
"I have a theory," Ethan said from just behind them. Donovan nodded for him to continue. "It is the excitement of the upcoming fight as well as the fact that Harry is very much in touch with his Merrow side. He has spent most of the day with the Merrow Courts and spent most of yesterday and this morning sharing blood with his Merrow bonded."
"That makes sense," Glynn replied. Harry had spent a lot of time with his Merrow the day before. They had all shared blood with him many times and he spent a lot of time in the water. Harry was very much accepting and embracing everything that made him Merrow. Plus, as a Ferros the promise of a fight was probably tipping his very unstable scales over into Feral.
"We must go. Lord Aiden is calling," Hadrian said and held Harry's sword out to him. Harry had already changed his clothes and was wearing Merrow armor because it was much more freeing and flexible than the stuff most of his other Gheyo wore. He strapped his sword to his back and made sure that his dagger was secure around his thigh. Kisten stepped forward and held out his hand for Harry's arm. He then strapped a blade to Harry's forearm that he remembered quite well. It was the blade that he had been admiring and then used when he killed Voldemort. Ethan had already pulled Harry's hair back in an intricate design that Harry thought made him look more like a warrior. His belly chain with all of his scales on it was secure under his armor and flexisuite.
Harry and the others said their goodbyes and headed for the transportation room. Hadrian and his entire suite were once again going. Charlie, Donovan, and Varon were joining them as well as Cethin. Varon and Harry stayed very close to each other and touched often. The others respected the fact that their instincts were running high. Once in Death's court, they made their way up to where Briar was standing with a few of his circle and Sirius and Remus.
"Why are you here?" Sirius demanded when they showed up. Harry frowned at him and hugged Remus tightly when he was pulled into his arms.
"I am part of Death's Court. She is my Lady I have just as much right to be here as you do, Siri," Harry sniped out. Sirius seemed a bit shocked at the venom in his voice. He looked at Harry and noticed that his Dragel attributes were on full display and that his eyes were glowing just a little.
"I didn't mean to offend you, Pup. I was just shocked to see you is all. I figured that you would be tucked away at home safe behind your wards. How did you convince your Alpha or your brother to let you out tonight?" Sirius asked with a smirk. Harry grinned.
"It didn't take as much convincing as you think. I have been learning to fight since we arrived. My Gheyo are happy to let me test myself tonight," Harry said. Briar and Jun both hung back they didn't know if Harry would appreciate any kind of physical touch from them. They hadn't been around him much since the Dudley incident. Harry just rolled his eyes and went into their arms. He let them fuss over him for a moment before he went back to nearly pressing himself against Varon.
"That's new," Remus commented to Hadrian. The Shadow Ace nodded.
"Open soulbond. They will most likely seal it and close it before the morning comes. The pull is really intense with this one," Hadrian replied.
"They have been touching from the moment they were close enough to do so and have not stopped since," Wikhn added. "Ethan thought it was worth mentioning since the Joker insisted on coming with him."
"He will not be an issue. He is part of the Crimson Tide. They have to fight hard to get the position and then fight harder to keep their position. He will be fast and vicious. It is required that all Crimson Tide members are just as good on land as they are in the water," Cethin added. He had been fascinated with Merrow in his youth and learned as much as he could. There was a growl and then the throne room fell silent. Aiden had taken his throne. Harry moved forward to stand in between Hadrian and Cethin at the front. Varon was pressed against his back and his other bonded and his four family members were around them.
"You all know why you have been gathered tonight," Aiden started. He looked around at them all and stopped when he spotted Harry. He winked at the little submissive and then continued on. Harry blushed but continued to listen. "Tonight we Hunt. The Royals have already sent out messages for everyone to stay safe behind their wards tonight. We will spread out and decimate them all. Remember that they are tricky and very good at hiding. Leave no shadow unchecked. Rip, maim, and kill to your heart's content. It has been too long since we have had a good Reaping and the breach today was significant. I am excited at the thought of how many Fabrine escaped into our shadows."
Harry was more excited just listening to Aiden speak, he was nearly vibrating with excitement. He heard Briar and Sirius chuckle and felt Varon's smile against his shoulder.
"We have been asked to please remember to capture some as well for The Pits to make use of. If you want to help with that make sure to take some of our containment bags with you when you go. I am also happy to see our newest little member of our Lady's court here. Are you here for the Gathering or are you here for the Reaping Favored Child of Death?" Aiden turned back to Harry. Harry grinned up at the Hellhound.
"I am here to Reap, My Lord. I am here to make My Lady proud," Harry stated firmly and stood tall. Aiden smiled back and nodded his head.
"Very good, Little Warrior. I am sure you will make her very proud. Now, it is time," Aiden went back to addressing the rest of those gathered. He narrowed his eyes and grinned in a way that made most of them shiver. His red eyes began to glow. He gnashed his teeth together in a predatory way. Harry could feel the Death magic spread through the room. Hadrian as well as many others transformed. Hadrian and a few others became taller and raised Scythes. The Reapers were ready. Harry watched as Briar and Sirius as well as many others shifted into their hellhound forms followed by the shift of Remus and the others present that were were-creatures. Jun climbed onto Briar's back.
"We will hunt with yours," Jun informed Wikhn who nodded. Then they waited and turned back to Aiden.
"Happy Reaping," He growled out and then he howled into the air. That was what they had all been waiting for. The outer wall seemed to melt away and those present just melted out into the night. Harry followed his bonded out into the dark night. He was fascinated with the way most of them seemed to fade into the shadows as they drifted away. Hadrian led them all to an area that was relatively empty of most groups only single fighters or duos mostly around them. Harry drew out his sword and took a deep breath. It was silent for only a moment before what seemed like waves of darkness began to emerge from the shadows.
Then the shadows had glowing red eyes and sharp teeth. The inhuman screeching was heard and then the fighting started. Harry slipped into the space in his mind that he had found suited him best when he was fighting with his bonded. He was hyper-aware of where all of his bonded fought around him. He fought as well and when he tired of swinging his sword he sheathed it and pulled out the dagger that Kisten had strapped to his forearm.
Harry used the blade in one hand and his claws on the other to rip his way through the Fabrine that his bonded let through for him to fight. He knew they were monitoring how many got through at a time so that Harry was not overwhelmed but also so that he got his fair share of fighting in. He knew they were managing him but he didn't mind. He was learning that he had absorbed a lot more than he had originally thought from his bonded when they were training him. He noticed that everyone was working their way toward herding all of the Fabrine in one direction.
"Why is everyone working in the same direction?" Harry asked when Varon pressed his back against Harry's for a moment of rest.
"Every group for the most part headed to the edges of Nevarah. We will clear the outer edges and work our way to the center of Nevarah when it is finished we will have cleared Nevarah from the outside in. It is a very efficient way to work and cuts down on the chances of Fabrine escaping death. For the next few days Gheyo will be on high alert to make sure that all of them are taken care of," Varon explained. Harry nodded.
"It is a very good strategy," Harry said. Varon turned suddenly and pulled Harry closer to him. He looked down with eyes so filled with promise that Harry couldn't look away.
"You have good instincts and you are fast. I know that you are only just learning to fight but you have the foundation to be a fighter that will rival your Blood Titled Ace. Vicious and fast. It is intoxicating to watch you," Varon growled down at him. Harry purred up at him and wrapped his arms around the Merrow's neck. Then they were kissing and it was all teeth and tongues. It was hard and demanding and Harry could taste their blood from their fangs nicking each other's lips. It was everything that he needed in that moment and then they were pulling apart and breathing hard. Harry was going to work very hard to convince this wild Merrow Joker to bond with him before the morning sun truly rose.
He heard a snort off to the side and turned to see two very familiar faces coming toward them. Varon growled but Harry patted his arm to let him know it was fine. Harry's Gheyo shifted to let the newcomers through. He could smell the lightning and feel the magic crackling off of the Storm Ace.
"Hello, Vicious Little Submissive," Raiden said with a smile. "I had been hoping I would get to see you display some of that fire I have been hearing about." The Ace was checking him over and Harry thought he might be cataloging all of his wounds. There was actually probably far more than Quinn would be happy with him about.
"Hi Raiden, it is good to see you again," Harry replied. "Hi Damon, It is good to see you as well," Harry said to the Air Queen next to Raiden.
"Having fun, Trouble?" Damon asked. He had apparently taken to the name that Bill had called him.
"Oh yes," Harry grinned at the both of them. "Reap with us?" Harry offered.
"Love to," Damon responded and Raiden nodded.
"Yes, thank you," The Ace accepted. "New Joker?" He asked indicating Varon. Harry grinned when Varon tightened his hold on him.
"Not yet. But he is mine all the same. He will be marked by morning," Harry stated firmly.
"Congratulations on your bonding," Damon said with a grin. "Now, how about we get back to why we are here and quit letting your bonded have all of the fun." Harry nodded and turned back toward the outside of their small semi-circle.
"Draw your weapon, Kitten," Hadrian said in his shadowy Reaper voice. Harry shook his head no.
"I tire of blades, Hades. I want to use my claws," Harry countered. He didn't know where the nickname had come from but he liked it. Hadrian didn't seem to mind either.
"So be it, stay sharp and aware, Kitten," Hadrian gave in and then suddenly Fabrine were once again making their way to him. More than before because he had the other three Gheyo near him now. He fought and loved the feeling of using his claws far better than the blades. Every once in a while he would step back and watch his bonded fight around him. They were all magnificent. He was so proud to call them his. Varon was just as vicious and fast as he heard Cethin mention. Raiden used lightning and blades to expertly demolish them. He left nothing of them behind but ashes. Damon had somehow formed the very air around him into solid blades and arrows that he used to slice the Fabrine to pieces.
All of them were impressive and Harry once again happily sank into his mostly feral state surrounded by the feel of so much power around him. The next time they took a break Donovan had to step up and soothe Harry until he slipped back into a better state of mind. He was covered in the black ick that served as blood for the Fabrine. He was panting heavily from exertion and excitement. He threw his arms around Donovan's neck and basically climbed him to wrap his legs around him as well. They shared an intense kiss and were both grinning like mad men when they pulled back from it.
"Definitely, has a bit of battle lust that we were not aware of before tonight," Aither stated with a grin.
"It is why he has only chosen Jokers so far to bond into the circle. They can match and calm it when needed. Our circle is likely to be more Joker-heavy than we first assumed," Kisten answered.
"I don't know, you have a few Merrow in your circle and they are known for being just as vicious as most Jokers," Raiden offered.
"That is very true. But I think we should be aware that Jokers are likely to be higher on his list," Hadrian added.
"How many Pareya do you have?" Damon asked.
"Three," Wikhn answered. "Four if you count Alec but he leans more toward Gheyic Pareya and tends to stay away from fussing over anyone but Harry and sometimes our healer."
"He may need to add one more to make sure that their instincts don't end up unsettled," Damon replied.
"You have a healer?" Raiden asked. Wikhn and a few others nodded. Raiden whistled. "How fussy is he?"
"He is a Kalzik. He is very fussy," Wikhn growled out. Raiden started laughing.
"He is going to love seeing your submissive come home covered in wounds," Raiden stated when he was done laughing.
"I am going to try and catch a medic when we are done to heal most of it before Quinn gets his claws into him. If I take him home like that Quinn may not be so amendable to Harry joining us for any more Reapings," Hadrian commented back.
"He is quite a sight though. His instincts are incredible. You can tell that he is inexperienced but he makes up for that by being fast and striking at the weakest points," Damon observed. "I understand now why he wasn't impressed by most of the fights he saw in the pits a few days ago. I thought it was because of the Gheyo that he is bonded to and surrounded by. And it is partly that. But it is also the fact that his Dragel knows what it is capable of and is searching for worthy Gheyo."
"He wasn't impressed with any of the fights?" Raiden asked suddenly.
"I was impressed by yours, Storm Ace," Harry suddenly spoke up. He was standing much more calmly between Donovan and Varon. "You fought against Zandian fiercely and it was so much fun to watch."
"Thank you, I am happy to impress," Raiden said with a grin.
"Damon is right though. Yours was the only one I was impressed by. No one else caught my eye. I can't wait until next week. Damon and the others said that is when the real fighting starts," Harry said with excitement. Remus and Sirius still in their wolf and hound forms prowled over and rubbed against Harry sniffing him and licking at his injuries. He huffed and pushed them away.
"Instincts, Kitten. Let your fathers fuss," Hadrian spoke up. Harry just huffed again but allowed Remus and Sirius to sniff him and fuss over him for a few moments more. Finally, he was over it.
"Ok, Mooney, Padfoot that is enough. I am ready to keep going now," Harry shoved them away after scratching them behind the ears. Sirius nipped at his fingers and then Remus nipped at Sirius in reprimand. Harry laughed and turned to his Ace. He was ready to get started again. "Please, Hades. My skin itches I am ready go again." Hadrian nuzzled Harry and then transformed back into his Reaper form.
"Of course, Submissive Mine," Then he whistled and everyone moved back into place and started again. It was easier this time for Harry to give himself over to his Ferros instincts. This time he fought with Donovan on one side of him and Varon still on the opposite. He didn't know how long they had been fighting this time when his attention was caught by a pillar or flames. There was a Dragel wielding a staff and laughing gleefully as Fabrine were consumed by his flames. He looked like some avenging Fire God to Harry. His hair was long and pulled back in Viking braids. His clothes seemed to be made in that style as well. He also had an axe strapped to his back.
"Impressive isn't he?" Harry heard from the opposite side. He turned to see Zandian on the outskirts of his group. He didn't know when the Blood Flame had joined them but it was nice to see so many familiar faces out here. Harry smiled and nodded.
"He is. Hi Zandian, it is good to see you. Who is he?" Harry asked and turned back to watch the other Dragel.
"Fire Mage. His name is Logi," Zandian told him. Harry nodded and continued to fight and also kept looking over at the very impressive Fire Mage. He looked back over at one point and Zandian had slipped away. Harry shrugged and continued fighting Hadrian said they were almost to the center where they would be finishing the rest off,
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Logi and Zandian
Zandian had been chuckling when he slipped away from the others. He fell behind and then made his way to his friend. He came up beside the laughing warrior as he was swinging his axe and taking down a more Fabrine.
"Happy Reaping, Logi," Zandian said by way of greeting. Logi paused and turned toward him.
"Happy Reaping, My Friend," Logi offered in return as they continued to fight. As they were converging on the center of Nevarah, the Fabrine were getting thicker and more aggressive. They knew they were being corralled.
"Any chance you are still without a circle and still hunting?" Zandian asked. Logi looked at him for a moment before turning his attention away.
"I am. Not that it does me much good I have been hunting for two decades. I am about ready to give up on anyone wanting me. I am too onery," Logi stated with a bit of a tone. "Why do you ask?" Zandian pointed.
"See that group and the tiny, beautiful submissive in the center? The one ripping Fabrine apart with his claws instead of blades?" Zandian pointed. Logi didn't need to look. He had seen them already. It was an impressive group. The little Submissive was the most impressive of them all. Inexperienced but deadly. He would grow into something magnificent.
"I see him," Logi answered simply. Zandian snorted.
"He is Hunting this season. The three in the center are not bonded to him but they are trying to win his favor and catch his eye. The Merrow is an open soulbond they will probably bond this evening riding this battle lust," Zandian told him.
"What has that to do with me, Zane?" Logi asked.
"He is only Hunting Gheyo and has been advised to Hunt for a mage or two as well. You caught his eye with your pillar of flames. He has not stopped watching you since," Zandian finally got to the point he was trying to make. Logi paused and looked back over again. The Submissive was still in the center of fighters. He could tell that it wasn't just the three unbonded that were showing out for the Submissive. He was quite a pretty thing and clearly Ferros.
"He has agreed to bond a Merrow?" Logi asked as he watched the submissive and the Merrow orbit each other. Zandian snickered and nodded.
"It is more than that. He has three Merrow Gheyo and another who has just claimed Merrow as his position. He also has a Phoelix that I suspect is a water type. Plus the Joker he will claim tonight. The Submissive is part Merrow as well. He is fourth in line to the Merrow Throne. He is King Alcandor's nephew. But that has never bothered you. You don't have the same aversion to Merrow as most Fire types. Why do you ask?" Zandian asked.
"I see one fire type over there how many others? Bonding into a water-heavy circle would be bad for me. Even if I don't have issues with Merrow," Logi stated as if it were an obvious issue.
"Right, his alpha is also a Fire type as well as a Joker I believe so that makes three. It isn't water-heavy though. He is nameless and his circle is made up of all of the elements. You should at least introduce yourself to him at some point and see if you fit. It is only a suggestion if you are still Hunting. Harry is quite onery himself and I have met more of his circle. You being onery or difficult won't be an issue with that Circle," Zandian informed him. Logi nodded and glanced at the Submissive again he was laughing and his green eyes were so bright that Logi could see them from where he was. He was quite beautiful.
"I shall consider sending a favor. His name, Zane?" Logi asked as he watched the Submissive still. Zandian laughed.
"Knew it," He said with a grin. "His name is Harrison Evanson-Malfoy. His circle name is Serpent's Requiem. He plans to frequent The Pits during this Hunt."
"You seem to know a lot for an uninterested Ace," Logi stated. Zandian shrugged.
"I am not uninterested. He has suffered and he is funny, brave, cuddly, kind, and beautifully vicious. He is bonded to Blood Raven and many other powerful Dragel. But I do not think I could move past my aversion to Merrow in the circle. Plus, Raiden has truly caught his eye and I think at this point the courting process is just a formality," Zandian stated. "I will settle for being his friend."
"That is high praise coming from you. Thank you for the advice and the shove in his direction," Logi said and then they were finally still. They had finished corralling the Fabrine to the center and now, like every Reaping, The Hound would honor a few people or a group that will finish those that are left.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Finishing the Reaping
Harry is standing happily with his blood singing in his veins. His power was visibly sparking in his hands and along his skin. Varon and Donovan were pressed against him on either side and Hadrian was pressed against his back. The three Gheyo were enjoying the feel of the magic sparking off of him and against them. It had been a great night and Harry was ready to take his bonded home and claim his Joker.
Hadrian had told him this was the part of the night where Lord Aiden would choose who would have the honor of the last kills. They were just waiting for him to decide. A ward had been placed around the Fabrine that had been corralled to the center. It would be like a cage fight Harry guessed.
Aiden was giving his congrats on a good Reaping and making a show of looking at the fighters around him. He complimented many by name until he stopped in front of Harry.
"You are sparking, Child," Aiden said with a grin. He was looking Harry over. Probably to make sure that he wasn't hurt bad enough to upset Lady Death.
"It was very exciting. I am definitely riding a high right now," Harry answered. Hadrian chuckled.
"Full of blood lust and a battle high, this one is," Hadrian told Lord Aiden. "His magic feels unbelievable." The hellhound nodded and then turned back to the center. He reached back and grasped Harry's wrist and pulled him forward. The magic sparked between them and Harry heard quite a few people around him chuckle.
"Serpent's Requiem and those who Reaped with them will be given the honor of Last Rites. His first Reaping and he performed beautifully. Death's Court is proud to have a claim on him. Do you accept the honor?" Aiden asked Harry. He nodded his head and gave a small bow.
"We are honored for the opportunity to make you and Our Lady Proud," Harry said with excitement. Aiden released his wrist and stepped to the side.
"Then claim your prize," The Hellhound stated. Harry was immediately joined by his bonded as well as his four family members. He noticed Raiden, Damon, and even Varon had not stepped up with them. Harry turned and held his hand out for them.
"The three of you Reaped with us. You won't be excluded now. If I am honored on my group's performance you are honored as well. Come now, Silly Gheyo. Don't make me ask twice," Harry said with a smirk and a wink. The three of them joined him and Harry waited until his Shadow Ace and King took the lead and led them all into the barrier.
Harry decided to go back to using at least one blade. So he swiped with blade and claws and fought. He was finding it easier and easier to slip into letting his Ferros instincts take over. He grinned with those around him while they made quick work of the Fabrine together. He didn't even pay attention to the fact that they were being watched. When they were finally finished, he was ready to go home. He wanted to bond with his new Joker and maybe convince Donovan to join them. He didn't think Varon or Donovan would mind they seemed to fight well together and they had both been grounding Harry tonight. Even now he was pressed between the two of them.
"Kitten," Harry looked up at his Ace. "Have a good time?"
"Yes, Ace. I had a great time. This was exhilarating. I am ready to go home now," Harry told him. Hadrian smiled down at him and caressed his cheek.
"I know, Kitten. But if I take you home like this, our healer is going to have a tizzy. He may have a fit the next time you want to join us for something like this," Hadrian informed him. Harry looked down at himself and grimaced. He did look terrible enough to truly upset Quinn. He didn't want to waste time being fussed over when he got home he wanted to lock himself away in a room with his Jokers.
"Yeah, you are right. So what are we going to do?" Harry asked. Hadrian whistled and a tall Gheyo with black hair with red tips came forward. He was dressed like a Gheyo but he had a symbol on his armor that also marked him as a medic. He had seen it on Quinn's brother's clothes. Kyle was a medic. This man was a medic as well.
"Your Ace would like me to look you over and heal you before you head home to your fussy healer. Is that correct?" The man asked. Harry smiled and nodded.
"He is a Kalzik and I love him dearly but he does fuss. I don't normally mind the fussing but tonight I am too high-strung to want to sit through it," Harry answered.
"My name is Keagan. I am a Medic but I am also a Gheyo. I saw you eyeing my armor. Will you permit me to heal you?" Keagan asked. Harry nodded. But the Medic didn't move toward him. Then he chuckled.
"You will have to move away from your Jokers, Submissive. I can not get a proper look at you pressed between them. I know as a Ferros your instincts are settled between them but I need you to come away for just a bit. Think you can?" Keagan asked him. Harry could tell he was amused. He took a deep breath and stepped away from them. He made it all of two steps before he was sporting scales, fangs, and claws. Keagan chuckled again.
"Sorry, they have been grounding me all night," Harry said with a slight blush.
"It's fine and completely understandable. I am assuming that you have allowed your Ferros instincts to have free reign tonight. Having your scales and claws out will not affect my scans so it is perfectly ok," Keagan assured him. Harry nodded and stepped closer to him.
"Just so you are aware, he is magic-sensitive," Jun spoke up. Harry looked over at his grandmother gratefully.
"Thank you, I will adjust my scans accordingly," Keagan answered and then ran his scans. Harry still shivered at the touch of unfamiliar magic but didn't bolt like he wanted to.
"Nothing serious. Minor cuts and scrapes I can close those up with no problem. I am going to touch you but only so that I can trace the runes. Do I have permission?" Keagan asked. Harry nodded and held his hand out when Keagan asked for it. He felt Varon and Donovan shift behind him and chirred softly to let them know he was fine. He cautiously placed his hand in the Gheyo's open palm. He traced the rune into Harry's palm with a vial he had pulled out of his belt. Harry could feel the wounds closing. When he was finished he could tell that all of his wounds were healed.
"Thank you, Medic Keagan," Harry said and quickly stepped back into the arms of his Jokers. They pulled him back between them with a sigh. All three relaxed once again. Sirius was back in his human form and he chuckled from where he stood with Remus draped over his shoulders. Both of them looked quite sated. The fight had been good for them.
"I still wouldn't recommend taking him home looking like that. I have seen the way your healer fusses. He will take one look at his clothes all torn and covered in Fabrine bits," Sirius said with a laugh. Aither stepped forward.
"I got him," The Gheyo Princess stated with a smile. "May I, Kitten?" He asked Harry.
"Of course, Aither," Harry said and returned his smile. Aither placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and Harry felt a tingle of comforting light magic wash over him. His clothes were stitched back together and all evidence that he had been fighting was cleared away. "Very nice, My Princess. Thank you." Aither pressed a gentle kiss to his lips and left him with his Jokers. Keagan spoke with Hadrian for a moment and then handed him a piece of paper.
"Most likely that is your scans so that Quinn can put it in your files," Donovan told him.
"That makes sense. Hadrian better wait until morning to give him those though. I have plans I don't want to be deterred from once we get home," Harry practically purred.
"What plans are those, Kitten?" Donovan asked. Harry grinned.
"I am hoping to convince you and Varon to lock yourselves away in a room with me," Harry stated. Varon looked down at him.
"You want me to stay with you?" The Merrow Joker asked.
"Of course, I do. I told you already you can court me if you like. All of my bonded are. But you are mine and I want to be bonded to you by morning. I thought I was pretty obvious about it," Harry told him. Varon leaned down and kissed him roughly. Harry welcomed it. When he pulled away Harry grinned up at him. "Does that mean you will stay?"
"Yes, like I could actually deny you anything," Varon said. Harry looked back to Hadrian when he walked back over.
"Can we go home now?" Harry asked eagerly. He heard a chuckle that he recognized as Damon. He turned to the Gheyo Queen and stuck his tongue out. "Hush you."
"Well, I am going to say my goodbyes and retire for the night. It has been a long day and night. Your introduction was quite impressive by the way. Just wanted you to know," Damon said. Harry blushed a little.
"Thank you for Reaping with us. It was nice to see you again," Harry replied. "I can't wait to watch you fight next week." Damon bowed with a grin and then strode off to the nearest portal area. Raiden said his goodbyes as well.
"Well, pup we are going to head home as well before Lucius comes and hunts us down," Sirius said. But he said it in a way that made Harry feel like he wouldn't mind that at all. 'ew'. He did not want to think about his parents hunting each other down.
"Are you going home like that?" Harry asked. Sirius was still covered in wounds that he wasn't even attempting to heal or hide. Remus laughed and Sirius grinned.
"Oh, yes. Severus is going to fuss over him all night," Remus stated. Harry nodded. That made sense Siri loved to do things so that Severus would fuss over him. Harry thought it was super cute.
"Right, Of course he will," Harry grinned. He bid both Remus and Sirius goodbye and then Jun and Briar as well. Now it was just Harry and his bonded left in their group. "Can we please go home now?" Harry whined and trilled at Hadrian. The Shadow Ace chuckled and nodded.
"Yes, Kitten. We can go home now," Hadrian answered. Harry trilled happily. They went to the nearest portal area and ported home to their transportation room. Bill and Quinn looked like they were the only ones awake but Harry knew better. He knew at least two of his Gheyo that stayed behind would be awake on patrol. Quinn was up in an instant and fussing over Harry.
"Are you hurt?" Quinn asked running scans. Harry let him fuss for just a moment or two. Then he kissed Quinn's lips and stepped back between his Jokers.
"I am fine, Quinn. Every wound was minor. Just scratches. A medic healed me up and gave Hadrian the scans for you," Harry told him. He had wanted to keep the scans away from Quinn at least until morning but he just couldn't bring himself to do it. Quinn took the scans that were handed to him and looked them over.
"Well the medic did a good job healing you up. I guess there is no need for me to fuss over you. You look exhausted though. So why don't you soothe your Alpha and then head to bed?" Quinn told him. He kissed Harry and then turned to the others. Harry chuckled.
"Look over my Jokers first. I am taking them to bed with me after I see my Alpha," Harry stated before walking away. Bill was still sitting on the couch and Harry straddled his lap and kissed him long and deep in greeting.
"Hello, Trouble. Did you have fun?/" Bill asked him with a grin. Harry nodded happily.
"Yes. It was great. I did what I was told. I stayed in the center of the others and I made no unnecessary stupid choices. I only had small cuts and scrapes nothing major. I was safe and got to play. Thank you for letting me go, Alpha. Even though I know you didn't really want to," Harry told him. Bill kissed him again. This time it was much softer and sweeter.
"Very good, Submissive. Thank you for listening and I am glad you had fun. Now before you disappear with your Jokers, call Glynn in. He is on patrol right now with that Merrow King that your Uncle sent," Bill told him. Harry looked surprised.
"He stayed? I thought he would go back to Uncle Al once the breach was closed," Harry said and then tugged on his bond to Glynn.
"I think he wanted to stay and prove himself or something like that. I think that is another one that is going to try and court you. He has been asking a lot of questions and absorbing everything about you," Bill teased. Harry didn't find that he minded that at all. The Merrow King was very handsome. Harry would see about watching him. Obviously, he was good enough that his Uncle had trusted him to guard Harry and Draco.
It wasn't very long before Glynn and Tempest strode into the room. Glynn walked over and pulled Harry up and into his arms. He sniffed and nuzzled him until Harry was giggling.
"I am fine, Glynn. It was fun," Harry said with a grin. "Hi, Tempest."
"He was magnificent. Watching him fight was quite an honor. He is definitely Merrow. Fast, Vicious, and beautiful," Varon praised Harry to Glynn and Tempest. Harry blushed and allowed Glynn to press kisses to his jaw.
"High praise from a member of Crimson Tide," Tempest commented.
"He earned it," Hadrian said as he approached the group of them. "Now let our lovely Submissive go so that he can wear himself out with the Jokers. They have been playing footsie with each other all night." Glynn pressed a kiss to Harry's lips and then handed him over to Varon who happily accepted the Submissive into his arms.
"You are not returning with me are you?" Tempest teased. It was obvious that there was a soul bond between the two of them. Varon and Harry both shook their heads no.
"He is mine and he is staying with me. If you are going to report to my Uncle let him know for me would you?" Harry asked. Tempest nodded and agreed before he left. Harry told the rest of his bonded goodnight and then finally was allowed to get his two Jokers alone. Donovan excused himself for a shower so that Harry could have Varon for the first time alone. They exchanged claim marks and then sealed their bond and Harry basked in the feel of the soul magic that surrounded them when their bond fully clicked into place. Donovan joined them right after and Harry spent hours between his Jokers before the three of them finally fell into an exhausted sleep. Today had been a good day.