Healing, Hugs, and Hunts

Day 8: Food court

Harry was pissed. Like, rip that stupid, irritating Submissive's spine out of his back pissed. He and Nosedive Yanek were about to have a conversation that was probably going to get him in trouble. Harry didn't think his other bonded had noticed the Submissive yet, but Harry had. He had noticed him immediately. Harry had been looking to meet up with Theo for lunch after spending the first part of the day in the pits with his bonded. Harry sped up his steps as soon as he saw that filth reach out and touch Theo and giggle. Harry's Beta had looked disgusted and pulled his arm back away from him.

"This day started so well," Harry mumbled to himself. That caught the attention of the Gheyo who had been walking with him. But they weren't quick enough to stop what was fixing to happen. Yanek was reaching out again to touch what wasn't his to touch. Harry was going to make sure that he didn't make contact a second time. Harry reached out and grasped that outstretched wrist and made sure that his claws dug in just a little.

"Hey, what the hell do you think you are doing? Let go of me this instant," Yanek demanded. Harry was happy to see that he at least was smart enough to look afraid. Harry snarled at him and yanked him close so that their faces were almost touching.

"Do not touch him again. He is not yours to touch, Nosedive Yanek. He will never be yours. This will be your one and only warning. So make sure you are listening to the words coming out of my mouth," Harry growled out at him. Yanek nodded and tried to pull his hand away but Harry only gripped it harder. He was pretty sure he felt something snap in his wrist and Yanek whimpered. Good.

"Theo is not yours. Theo will never be yours. He does not want you. He told me all about your letter trying to get us to merge circles. That is never going to happen. Never. You are making yourself look desperate and pathetic by continuing to pursue a happily bonded man. If I find out you have talked to him again I will rip your tongue out of your mouth. If you look in his direction I will blind you. If you touch him with some part of your body I will remove it from your body. Are we understood?" Harry asked the other submissive. He looked close to tears at this point and nodded frantically. "Use your words so that everyone here can hear your understanding."

"Y...yes. I I under understand. He is yours. He does not want me. Do not l..look at him. Do not talk to him. Do not sp speak to him," Yanek stuttered out. Harry nodded and then released his wrist. Yanked stumbled back away from him and was scooped up by his scowling bonded. Harry wondered why they had not interfered. But when he looked around he could see that they had been being held back by Harry's bonded. Harry turned back to face Yanek and his bonded.

"You are a horrible person. I can not imagine why Theodore would choose to be with you. Not once has he told me to leave him alone. You are the only one who is trying to keep us apart," Yanek said from the safety of his bonded's arms. Harry snarled at took a step toward him but found himself wrapped in someone's arms. He looked up to snap at whomever had him. It was Varon.

"Hush, Princeling and let your Beta handle it now," He told Harry sternly. He turned to see that Theo had in fact stepped forward.

"If you need to hear it from my mouth to believe it then so be it. I, Theodore Gorgens-Nott, Beta of Serpent's Requiem, have never and still do not want or appreciate the advances that you, Yanek Callemaris have made toward me. I am perfectly happy and in love with my chosen Submissive and Alpha. I have no intention of severing my bonds with them to join with you now or ever. I have no intention of encouraging my Submissive or Alpha to merge our circles. I have allowed my Submissive to handle you as is his right. You have been warned of what it will mean for you to approach me again. I am giving you the only courtesy that I will ever give you from this moment on by warning you I will be officially filing for a No-Contact Order. Please honor my and my circle's wishes and stay away from us," Theo stated calmly and respectfully. Harry loved how calm Theo always was.

Yanek looked pissed but simply nodded his head and then he and his bonded were gone. Harry chirped at Theo and held his arms out since Varon was still holding him as if he was going to hunt the other Submissive down right now. Theo smiled and shook his head before pulling Harry into his arms. Harry nuzzled him and pressed kisses to his face and chin.

"I am sorry for making a spectacle of myself and you, Theo. I know you don't like it," Harry said quietly. "He just makes me so mad." Theo nuzzled him and pressed a kiss to his cheek and then his lips.

"Princess, you don't have to apologize. I know that you have been suppressing the urge to do that for a while. I am not upset with you," Theo assured him. Harry smiled up at him and kissed him again.

"Promise?" Harry asked just to make sure. Theo nodded.

"I promise, I am not upset with you. Are you ready to get lunch?" Theo asked.

"Yeah, I am starving. And I don't want to miss the fight at one. I finally get to watch Damon fight and then Wikhn has a fight scheduled," Harry said excitedly. It was then that he noticed the pretty Dragel standing behind Theo and to the side. Harry chirped up at Theo questioningly. Theo turned and waved the Dragel forward.

"This is Ariki Deveraine. He is Ilsa's son. We were hanging out today and I invited him to come for lunch with us. I hope that's ok," Theo stated. Harry smiled.

"Hi, Ariki it is so nice to meet you. I'm Harry. I love your mum. She gives the best mum hugs," Harry said and held out a hand for the new Dragel to grasp. Ariki bowed over it and placed a small touch of lips to his knuckles.

"It is very nice to meet you as well, Harry. Thank you for letting me intrude on your lunch," Ariki said politely. Harry just smiled more.

"You aren't intruding. You were invited. Come on, let's eat," Harry said and let Theo lead him into the food court.

"He just moves on to polite conversation as if he didn't just snap someone's wrist and threaten their life," Varon said with a laugh. Harry just ignored him and kept talking to Theo and Ariki.

"Honestly, it is why we love him so much," Aither answered.

"Beautiful, kind, polite, and utterly vicious," Styrmir added. Then all of the Gheyo laughed and headed in behind them.

They had to push two tables together so that they could all sit. They had been joined by Shayla, Luna, and Soula who had recognized her brother with them. Harry had Varon, Aither, Adad, and Styrmir with him today. So all together they were a group of ten. Harry sat in the middle of Soula and Luna.

"Having a good day, Big brother?" Luna asked him. Harry smiled.

"Yeah, it is always fun in The Pits. I wish you, Draco, or even Neville liked going," Harry sighed. Luna patted his hand and then held on to him.

"I am going with you today after lunch. I have someone to meet," Luna said with a soft smile. Harry just grinned. Of course, she did.

"Do any of our parents know what you have planned?" Harry asked her with a smirk.

"Nope, but Papa Frank will be there so it will be ok," Luna told him as if that was a given. Harry wasn't sure about that. He had made plans to go to The Pits with Frank on Wednesday. But he knew better than to question Luna.

" So Harry, how is your Hunt going?" Ariki asked when there was a lull in the conversation with the girls. Harry smiled brightly at him.

"It is going pretty well actually. I have plans to meet with an Air Ace that sent me a favor. I have also been talking with my Alpha, Rheyo, and Theo about the possibility of adding a second Beta to our circle. I am considering it. However, I didn't accept any of the favors that have been sent so far. I don't have any interest in meeting people who are only looking to get a leg up or take advantage of my connections. I have returned sixteen favors so far," Harry answered him. Ariki smiled but before he could answer Soula nudged Harry.

"My brother is a Beta. He is Hunting this season," She offered. Harry and Ariki both blushed. Soula yelped and glared at her brother. "Did you just kick me under the table?" She demanded.

"No, I did," Shayla said with a smirk. "Don't embarrass your brother that way, unless you want him to return the favor. You don't see Harry and Luna embarrassing each other that way." Soula pouted.

"I was only trying to help," She mumbled under her breath.

The conversation around the table was turned to other things after that so there was no risk of anyone embarrassing anyone else. They ate their lunch and had a pleasant time before Harry insisted that they needed to get back to The Pits. He did not want to miss watching Damon fight. He had talked such a big talk about being impressive and if he fought another Dragel the way he fought the Fabrine it was going to be spectacular. He also wanted Adad and Styrmir to watch him as well because if Harry decided to court him, he would be joining their suite.

As they were getting up to leave Harry literally walked right into Frank. Definitely should know better than to question Luna.

"Harry, Luna. Where are you two off to?" He asked. Luna snuggled up to him and smiled.

"We were heading to The Pits. Harry wants to watch an Air Queen fight and I have to be there to meet someone," Luna told him. Harry chuckled.

"You are coming with us," Harry said with a smile. "Luna knew you were going to be here."

"You don't mind if I tag along?" Frank asked. Harry shook his head.

"No, we were already going to hang out in The Pits together. We are just doing it sooner now," Harry told him. Frank pulled him into a hug and Harry held him tightly. It was the first hug the two of them had shared. It was a really nice hug.

"Thank you, Son," Frank said with emotion and Harry smiled up at the Ace.

"You are welcome. Let's go now so that I don't miss Damon's fight," Harry insisted. He kissed Theo goodbye and let Ariki know that he was glad to meet him. Then he was swooped up into Adad's arms as they made their way back to The Pits. They were all seated just in time for them to announce the fight. Harry waved when Damon locked eyes with him. He blushed when the Air Queen winked at him.

"Quit distracting the poor Queen before his fight," Varon teased. Harry just hushed him and turned back to the fight just as it was getting started. Damon was vicious and fast. He had picked his opponent well. They were pretty equally matched and Harry finally understood what they had all meant about last week's fights being warm-ups. Every fight he had seen today had been far more intense than last week.

Harry watched intently as Damon once again wielded the air around him with perfect precision. His blades were quick and armor-piercing. He was purring in his seat pressed against Adad. His Storm King was chuckling at him and nuzzled his hair.

"Is this the same Air Queen that Sirius was talking about fighting with your lot during the Fabrine Hunt?" Frank asked Varon.

"Yeah, that's the one. He is just as impressive now as he was that night. Harry has high expectations of his Gheyo. I think this one passed," Varon responded. Frank chuckled and looked back over at the one son they had who appreciated the fights. Frank had been hoping Neville would be more in touch with the fights since his barer was a Gheyo King and his Sire was a Gheyo Ace. Frank knew Harry's circle was training him and he was hoping to be allowed to be involved with it.

"You should be very proud," Varon said after a few minutes. Frank looked over at him. Varon indicated Harry. "He is a son that any Gheyo parent should be proud of. One that understands and can bond with a Gheyo parent when his siblings are too soft to understand."

"Yeah, I am starting to understand that," Frank stated. "If possible, I would like to be allowed to help with his fight training." Varon nodded. He would talk to Bill, Hadrian, and Glynn about it.

"Of course, you can be involved," Harry spoke up. The other two looked down at him. They hadn't known he was listening. He had been so absorbed in the fight. Varon looked up. The fight was over. It looked like Damon had won but had been injured pretty badly. "The end was the best part. You missed it," Harry smirked at him.

"Sorry, I got distracted speaking to your dad," Varon said with a shrug.

"You will let me help train you?" Frank asked Harry. The Submissive reached back for his hand and grasped tightly when Frank slipped his hand into it.

"I was hurt before. But I have moved passed it. I don't want to be angry or hurt. I want to get to know all of you. So yes I will. Just talk to Bill about it," Harry insisted. Frank nodded and pressed a kiss to Harry's head.

"Thank you," Frank said. Then Luna bounced in her seat and sat up straighter. Harry watched her pat her hair down and straighten her dress. He looked at his sister funny and then waited to see who it was she was here to impress. He didn't wait long.

"Hello, Harry," Came the familiar voice of the Blood Flame. Harry smiled up at him. He wasn't alone either. The man with him was tall and looked vaguely familiar.

"Hi Zandian. How are you today?" Harry asked happily. His eyes kept shifting between the Fire Ace and his little sister. Is this who she was waiting for or was it the other man?

"Pretty good. I was heading down to the arena when I caught sight of you and wanted to say high. Introduce me," Zandian requested and lifted his hand toward Frank and Luna. Harry smiled.

"This is my Dad, Frank. And this pretty Fae is my little sister, Luna," Harry acquiesced. Luna blushed prettily when the Fire Ace leaned down and kissed her outstretched hand. So it was Zandian then. "Dad, Luna, this is Zandian he is the Blood Title holder for the Fire Courts. Super cool honestly, but not my type. He has a few hang-ups about Merrow." Harry teased. Zandian sputtered in fake offense and the guy behind him chuckled and winked at Harry who blushed at the attention.

"I will have you know that it is perfectly normal for Fire-types to have 'hang-ups' about Merrow. Ask your Joker," He pouted and pointed at Varon. Harry's joker just laughed and shook his head.

"I happen to find the Princeling's fire types to be quite attractive. I managed to entice one of them into some very nice extracurriculars yesterday," Varon said with a smirk. Zandian looked at him like he had lost his mind and Harry and the others burst into laughter.

"What is so funny?" Damon asked as he strode up to where they were sitting. Harry smiled at him and waved him down into the seat next to Adad.

"Zandian is offended that Varon likes my Fire Queen," Harry told him in a mock whisper. "You fought really well. Consider me very impressed. You weren't hurt too badly were you?" Damon smirked down at him and shook his head.

"I was pretty wounded but I am all fixed up. Glad that I could impress you. I had to pull out all of the stops after seeing you in the stands. I didn't want to disappoint when you have such amazing fighters in your circle," Damon replied. "And Zandian is only offended because he doesn't know how fun it is to play with Merrow."

"I won't have any Merrow in my circle," Luna said dreamily. She looked up at Hadrian. "I have spent time with my big brother's Merrow. They fit his personality quite nicely but their tongues are far too sharp for my taste." Harry snickered and nudged Frank. Luna was too adorable. Harry was pretty sure he had never seen his little sister blush so much.

"You are right Luna, you are far too delicate and warm-blooded to deal with Merrow. I predict your Circle will be like Draco's all fire and Air types with a few fae thrown in for fun," Harry agreed with her. "That kind of circle would be far more to Zandian's liking. Wouldn't it?" Harry asked.

"Yes it would," Zandian agreed looking at Luna again. Harry could tell the Fire Ace thought she was very pretty. He was pretty sure there was a blush there as well. Harry could get behind that. He would even get Hadrian to help her court the Ace if that was what his sister wanted. Now he was going to address the handsome man who had been silent so far.

"Zandian, you are quite rude. I introduced you to my sister but you haven't introduced me to your friend," Harry pouted. Damon snorted and Varon laughed outright. Harry scowled at both of them. Then turned to stare at Zandian expectantly. The Fire Ace smirked.

"This is my friend, Logi. He is a Fire Mage. You have seen him before," Zandian insisted. Harry looked at the man harder. He knew he looked familiar. He chirped questioningly when the Ace didn't continue. Then he pinched his arm when he laughed at him. "Ok, ok. Geeze you didn't have to pinch me. Did you have your claws out?" Harry scowled. "Or did you have your snake bite me?" Harry just laughed and pulled his sleeve back. The little pink snake was sleeping.

"He didn't bite you but I will let him if you don't get on with it. And I left the antivenom at home," Harry threatened. "Oh, I know. I will let him bite you and then make you beg my Merrow Ace for the antivenom." Then Harry was cackling with laughter. The image of the Fire Ace begging Glynn for the antivenom was just too much. When he calmed down enough to look up, Zandian was looking at him like he had truly lost his mind.

"You know, I think you might be slightly unhinged," Zandian stated with a smile. Harry just shrugged and raised an eyebrow. "Fine. Remember the pillar of flame that caught your eye the night of the Reaping?" Harry nodded and then he grinned and looked up at the tall Viking-looking Mage.

"Oh, it was so pretty. I like your flames, I could feel the power in them from where I was. They consumed those Fabrine so prettily," Harry praised. Then he remembered something. "You sent me a favor. You are the only mage that I responded to," Harry blurted out before he thought about it. The man looked shocked. When he spoke finally he spoke with a heavy Norse accent.

"That is high praise, Little One. I am truly honored," Logi replied. Harry blushed. He pulled a favor out of his satchel. "I was going to send this today. But since you are here now, is it ok if I give it to you?" Harry nodded and blushed as he accepted the favor.

"Thank you. It is really nice to meet you in person. I can not wait to get the opportunity to know you," Harry answered as he held the favor tightly like he was afraid it would blow away. The Viking bowed low and flashed him a smirk.

"It is nice to meet you as well. Zane was right to point me in your direction," Logi stated. Harry grinned and looked up at Zandian.

"Playing matchmaker?" Harry teased. Zandian just shrugged.

"You are both my friends. I am simply ensuring that you get the chance to explore the possibility. Now if you will excuse us. We have a fight to get ready to referee. I believe it is your Shadow King that is fighting isn't it?" Zandian asked. Harry nodded.

"I am so excited to watch him fight. It was nice to see you again," Harry said and then turned to Logi with a smile and a blush. "It was nice to meet you. I hope to see you again soon." Logi reached out and Harry automatically slipped his hand into the much larger one. Logi leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to his knuckles.

"It was very nice to meet you. I am sure we will see each other soon," Logi insisted and then started to walk away. Zandian turned to Luna and took the hand she already had outstretched toward him.

"Lovely to meet you, Little Flower. Don't be a stranger," Zandian flirted and then reached out and grasped Frank's arm. "It was great to meet you, Ace. You have lovely children. You should be proud."

"I am very proud. It was nice to meet you too," Frank replied. Zandian nodded to Harry's other bonded and then he followed Logi down the stairs. Harry settled back in his place in Adad's lap. Varon on one side and Damon on the other. Styrmir was on the other side of Varon and Aither was sitting next to Frank and Luna.

"Ready to watch my lovely King?" Harry asked Damon. He snorted.

"I have seen your King fight. He is deadly. More often than not his opponents end up under the care of a medic for at least a day," Damon said with glee. " I am not surprised he is yours after what I witnessed during the Hunt." Harry blushed and then purred happily when his King stepped into the arena. He couldn't wait to watch.

~~~~~~~~

"Well, I am going to have to make sure to invite you to watch me fight more often," Wikhn laughed as he helped Harry tug his clothes back straight. Harry blushed but didn't look sorry at all. Adad had been distracted talking to Damon about Wikhn's fight when it was over and he managed to slip away from them. He had cornered his King when he stepped out of the ring and pulled him into a secluded corner.

"You were magnificent. You fight so viciously. I couldn't help myself," Harry said and carded his fingers through Wikhn's hair to straighten it from where Harry's fingers had been tangled in it. Just then they heard a few people calling for Harry. Wikhn looked down at him and frowned.

"You slipped away, didn't you? They have no idea where you are?" Wikhn demanded. Harry looked down. Now he was sorry. He nodded and Wikhn clicked his tongue at him. He grasped Harry and threw him over his shoulder before striding out of their hidden space.

"Oh, there he is," Frank sighed out and pointed when he saw them. Harry heard a chuckle that he knew belonged to Damon and he rolled his eyes.

"I would ask what you were doing but that looks pretty obvious," Styrmir commented. Harry couldn't see his face but he didn't sound too angry. Just a bit exasperated. Maybe he wasn't in too much trouble.

"That's our fault for not keeping a better eye on him. We all know what he has been like after watching us spar. The only reason he didn't go to Kisten after his fight was because Wikhn kept him in place," Adad added. Wikhn swatted him on the bottom and Harry yelped in surprise.

"That is because you should have known better. Next time convince someone to bring you down or stay in your seat. Just because nothing bad happened this time, doesn't mean something bad won't happen next time," Wikhn chastised him. Harry whined in apology and Wikhn set him on his feet. Harry immediately pushed himself into his arms and nuzzled him under the chin. Wikhn didn't respond to his apology at first and Harry whined a bit louder and nuzzled him again. When Wikhn didn't respond to the third whine and nuzzle Harry trilled sadly and moved to step back.

Only then did the Gheyo King wrap his arms around him and pull him back close to him. He nuzzled Harry's head and kissed him gently on the lips. Harry buried his face in Wikhn's neck and pressed a kiss there.

"I am sorry, My King. I promise I will not attempt to slip away from anyone again. It was reckless and possibly dangerous. I didn't mean to worry anyone and I promise not to do it again," Harry apologized to Wikhn and loud enough for the others to hear. Wikhn tightened his arms and then pulled him back so he could look into Harry's face.

"You are forgiven, Submissive. Next time I will not be so lenient. Your safety is not a matter to brush off," Wikhn told him. Harry nodded.

"I will do my best to make sure there is not a next time, King," Harry promised. Wikhn nodded and then kissed him again.

"Good Boy, Kitten. Now what do you want to do now?" Wikhn asked him. Harry smiled up at him. He was back to 'Kitten' instead of 'Submissive'.

"I would like to stay and watch the fights some more, Please. I want to see if any of the Gheyo that sent me favors are fighting. Is that ok?" Harry asked. Wikhn nodded.

"Of course, it's ok. I have to referee a few more fights today so I can not sit with you. But I will check in with you when I get a break," Wikhn told him. "Now go with the others." Harry nodded and said his goodbyes then he went into Varon's arms and nuzzled him under the chin. Frank and Luna said their goodbyes as well and left Harry alone with four bonded and Damon.

"I am sorry if I worried all of you," Harry apologized to them all again. Varon just kissed him and picked him up.

"You are already forgiven. Your King has already admonished you. There is no reason to dwell on it," Varon insisted. The others made noises of agreement. Harry turned to Damon before they headed back to the stands.

"Are you busy today or would you like to hang out with us again? I think my Alpha is coming to spend some time with us as well," Harry asked. Damon smiled at him.

"I am not busy right now. I planned on fighting and observing today for a bit until I have to head to work. I will spend time with you all," Damon agreed and walked between Adad and Styrmir. The three of them seemed to get along and Harry was so happy about it. If he did decide he wanted to bond with Damon he at least knew he fit with his current bonded. Bill was already waiting for them with Caelus in tow when they returned to their seats. Varon dumped Harry into Bill's lap.

"Hello, Trouble. Did I already miss our King's fight?" Bill said as he kissed Harry and Caelus nuzzled him. Harry nodded.

"Yes, and Harry slipping away to pull him into a dark corner to ravish him," Damon said with a snort. He sat down next to Bill when Varon waved him into the seat. Varon, Adad, Aither, and Styrmir took the seats in front of them. Bill chuckled.

"I guess that is why our seats were empty when I got here. Was it necessary to take everyone with you?" Bill teased. Harry looked up at him sheepishly and then ducked his head.

"I didn't take anyone with me. I slipped away from them while they were distracted and went alone. They were up because they were looking for me," Harry told him quietly. He wouldn't lie to his Alpha. Even if it meant he got in trouble again.

"He was already properly chastised by your King," Damon chimed in. Harry looked up at him gratefully and then back to his Alpha. He would still wait and take whatever Bill decided was necessary. He hoped he wasn't forbidden from coming to The Pits for a few days. Bill just lifted his chin and looked him in the eyes.

"Do you feel properly chastised? Do you understand why?" Bill asked him seriously. Harry nodded and chirped up at him.

"Yes, Alpha. I know why I was in trouble and am properly sorry for what I did," Harry told him just as seriously. Bill nodded and then smiled at him before nuzzling him. Harry trilled happily.

"Then I don't see where you need to be chastised again. Were you going to sit there and let me get on to you again?" Bill asked and Harry nodded. Bill scoffed and then laughed. "Well, then I guess it's a good thing your Damon butted in." Harry blushed at the 'your' part and pinched his Alpha on the arm. Bill and Damon both chuckled.

"Hush it, both of you," Harry pouted and turned to face the arena where a new fight was starting. His King was refereeing with another Dragel that Harry didn't know. "You keep teaming up against me and I will be forced to cancel our date later this week." Harry saw Damon make a face of obviously fake look of surprise. Harry and Bill both snorted.

"You would cancel our date because I get along with your Alpha? What a weird little submissive you are," Damon teased. Harry just ignored them to watch the fight. He could hear Bill, Caelus, and Damon chatting and getting along great. There was a lot of teasing, joking, and sass. Harry loved the sound of it. He was still planning on meeting the other Queen he had sent a return favor to just to be fair but he was pretty sure his Dragel had already chosen Damon.

"Your father wants to see you before you go home today," Bill quietly said into Harry's ear when he pulled him back into his chest. Harry sighed he had avoided talking to Laurent and Alcandor all weekend. He wanted them to know how upset he was about their interference. He knew why they had done it. Harry was their family and someone had hurt him. They just wanted to have his back but it didn't mean that he couldn't let them stew in their remorse for a weekend.

"Ok, Varon can take me to see them," Harry agreed and Bill looked at him like that wasn't the answer he had been expecting. Varon chuckled.

"He and I have discussed the situation and talked it through," Varon explained to the Alpha. Bill nodded and looked at Varon gratefully. The rest of them had decided to let Harry have the weekend to be angry and then start trying to subtly push him toward forgiveness as they had done with Lily and the others. Looks like Varon has already fixed the problem. It looked like the Merrow Joker truly was going to be good for their circle.

"Well, then I will let the others know where you are when the time comes," Bill told Harry and then went back to his conversation with Damon and Caelus. Harry winked at his Joker. He was happy not to cause his circle the added stress of managing him and Draco around their parents again. He was so grateful for his new Joker. The connection that he shared with this Joker was something special for sure. Varon's uncanny ability to be hyper-aware of what Harry needed or felt at any given time hadn't diminished any with the passing days. Harry kind of hoped it never did.

"Unfortunately, I have to bid you all farewell. I have patrol in a bit and need to get changed and prepared. I hope to see you all again soon," Damon announced after another few fights. He kissed Harry's inner wrist and then winked at Bill before striding away. Harry just laughed when Bill chuckled.

"I don't think I will be the only one he is interested in courting," Harry teased his Alpha. "He seems to like you quite a bit." Bill just shrugged and lounged back in his chair.

"What's not to like?" Bill stated in his cocky way. Harry just laughed and relaxed back against him. "I like him too. I think he will fit right in with the rest of us." Harry nodded and Caelus as well as the others made noises of agreement.

"Did you accept favors from another Queen?" Caelus asked him. Harry nodded and then shrugged.

"I just want to be fair and make sure that I am not jumping into anything," Harry answered. Bill looked at him questioningly.

"Are you unsure about him? I am only asking because it doesn't seem that way. You have spent every day since meeting him around him. Other than this weekend since you spent it at home. Is there something about him that makes you question whether or not he is a fit?" Bill asked him curiously. Harry blushed and then shook his head.

"No. I am not unsure about him. I think he would fit us all perfectly. I do not believe there is a Queen that I will like better than him. I am just trying to be fair?" Harry said the last part like it was a question. Caelus gently pulled Harry's chin over so that he was looking at him. He smiled at him softly.

"So you are sure that you want Damon?" Caelus wanted confirmed. Harry blushed and nodded. Then Caelus chuckled. "So you are literally only meeting with the other Queen so you can say that you gave someone else a fair chance?" Harry nodded again after a moment. "You have no intention of actually considering the other Queen?" Harry slowly shook his head 'no'.

"You do realize that it is perfectly acceptable for you to choose Damon without meeting other Queens right? You have already chosen him. It is a bit of a disservice to agree to meet with the other Queen when you truly have no intention of giving him a fair chance," Bill pointed out. Harry frowned. He hadn't thought of that. He was giving someone false hope and maybe causing them to miss out on finding someone he truly had a chance with. Harry and his Dragel were in perfect sync when it came to Damon.

"I guess that isn't very fair. I will write the other Gheyo and let them know that I have chosen my Queen and then I will talk to Damon properly about it," Harry agreed with them.

"It is ok to know what you want, Trouble. You don't have to feel bad for following your instincts. You probably chose Damon the first day and there is nothing wrong with that. He may not be a soul bond but your instincts still know," Bill told him.

"Thank you guys for talking it out with me," Harry told them and then kissed them both on the cheek. Varon stood up and reached back for him. Harry happily went into his arms.

"Going to see your Dad and Uncle," Bill said with a grin. He didn't think he would get used to how aware the two of them were of each other. There had been no indication from Harry that he was ready and yet the Joker had known he was anyway.

"Yep, I love all of you and will see you at home for dinner. I am going to let my Dad and Uncle off the hook," Harry said with a chuckle. Then he and Varon were gone and headed for the Merrow sections. When they arrived Varon sat Harry down and let him explore. The first time Harry had been through there he had been stressed and it was dark. This would be his first true visit through the Merrow section of the Hunt.

Once others recognized who he was there were a lot of Merrow who stopped and gave him a small bow before going on with their day. Harry would blush every time and Varon along with many others thought he was adorable. Harry was distracted by a grouping of pretty flowers and tripped over his feet into someone standing next to him.

"Oh, I am so sorry. I am so clumsy I was distracted and tripped over my own feet," Harry began apologizing. He pulled a scarf from his pocket and began to wipe the food off of the person that had spilled when Harry had knocked into them. He heard a snort but he ignored it and continued trying to clean his mess until a gentle hand stopped him.

"It is quite alright. It happens to the best of us," A kind voice replied. Then he heard the snort again.

"You are far too nice for your own good. That boy ruined your clothes and they weren't exactly cheap. I would demand that he replace them," A hard voice said from near them. Harry heard Varon growl and he quickly looked up at the man whose clothes he had ruined. They did look very nice.

"I will pay for it. It is my fault they are ruined. If you just tell me what they cost I can give it to you or I can go straight to your tailor to pay them to get you a new one," Harry insisted quickly. The man glared at the person standing next to him and turned kind eyes back to Harry. He waved his hand and the stain disappeared.

"There is no need for that. Excuse my brother he is a bit of an asshole. Nothing is ruined and he knows it," The Merrow assured him. The other Merrow huffed.

"Is there a problem here?" Harry rolled his eyes at the sound of that voice and the Merrow in front of him looked at him a bit amazed before he bowed to his King. Harry heard the other Merrow sputter and heard Varon chuckle. Harry did not bow. He just turned and walked right into his Uncle's startled arms. They tightened around him and Alcandor looked at him grateful for the affection.

"There is no problem Uncle. I was clumsy and bumped into the nice man. I thought I ruined his tunic and was offering to replace it. He assured me it wasn't necessary," Harry hurried to explain. He did not mention the other Merrow's rudeness. He wasn't trying to get anyone in trouble just because they were grumpy. Varon apparently didn't have the same issue.

"The Big One there was quite rude to your beloved Nephew," Varon pointed out and Harry gave him a pout. He poked Alcandor when he growled. His uncle only acknowledged him with a grunt.

"Leave it. It isn't a crime to be grumpy. If it was, you and Alec would always be in trouble," Harry stated firmly. Alcandor glared down at him offended and then Harry smiled brightly at Krym when he chuckled. "Hi, Uncle Krym."

"Hello, little Guppy. First visit to the section and already getting your Uncle worked up. It doesn't bode well for his people," Krymsen stated with humor. Harry shrugged.

"It isn't my fault he is entirely unhinged when it comes to family," Harry pouted. Alcandor sighed and petted his hair. Harry grinned up at him. "Does that mean you will leave it alone?"

"This time, Nephew," Then he looked up and addressed the rude Merrow. "If I hear that you are rude to my Nephew again. He will not be able to stop me from punishing you. Do you understand?" Harry heard the merrow say a quiet. 'Yes, My King.' "Good now thank him for sparing you from a flaying."

"Thank you, Your Highness, for being kind enough to forgive my rude words," The Merrow stated and Harry reached out with his empathy just to see if he was sincere. He was but under the sincerity was pain. The man was hurting. It wasn't a physical pain either he was going through something. Harry looked at the kind Merrow and he just gave Harry a grateful smile.

"Thank you for being sincere. I can feel your pain. It entitles you to a bad day or two," The Merrow looked up at him surprised. "I hope that you can heal from whatever has caused you such pain." He bowed again to Harry.

"You are very kind. I am truly sorry for being harsh with you," He said again. Harry smiled at him.

"I know you are. I feel your sincerity," Harry insisted.

"I am surprised to see you here," Alcandor interrupted. Harry smiled up at his uncle. "I figured after the way your father and I hurt you that it would be at least a week before you agreed to see us so we could apologize." Harry just shrugged and hugged him again.

"I know, Uncle Al. I may not agree with what you did and I am very upset about it, but I am your family and I have a history of people taking advantage and abusing me. I know you and Dad were just trying to protect me from something like that happening again," Harry insisted. Alcandor nodded and then let Harry go.

"Your father and I will be waiting for you in my throne room. Take your time and look around," Alcandor told him and then glared up at the Merrow again. "I am leaving you with another guard in addition to your joker. This is to ensure there are no more incidents." Harry was going to argue but Alcandor gave him a look. "It is non-negotiable, Nephew." Harry just sighed and nodded.

"Fine. I will see you and Dad soon," Harry said and then pulled his very tall uncle down by one of his necklaces and gave him a loud smacking kiss on the cheek before giggling and stepping back into Varon's waiting arms. The King just rolled his eyes waved one of his guards toward Harry and strode off. "Hi, Tempest. It is good to see you again."

"It is good to see you again as well, Princeling," Tempest said with a bow. Varon turned Harry toward him and smiled.

"What had you so distracted that you tripped over your own feet?" Varon asked. Harry went to tell him when he saw said distraction being held out for him. Harry blushed and took the outstretched flower. He turned toward the Merrow who had been rude to him.

"This is what had your attention is it not?" He asked. Harry nodded and sniffed the pretty flower. "To say sorry. You are right I am having a bad day. It was not an excuse to be rude. Thank you for being kind." The Kind Merrow stepped up and placed a hand on the Rude Merrow's shoulder.

"You are welcome. What is your name?" Harry asked.

"Caspian, Gheyo Princess and Medic at your service," He said with a sweeping bow. Harry smiled and turned to his brother.

"Leith, Beta, Your Highness," The brother introduced himself without being asked.

"It is nice to meet you both. I am sorry that my clumsiness caused such a bump in your day," Harry apologized.

"No apology needed, Highness. We hope that you enjoy the rest of your day," Leith insisted. Harry smiled and turned to Caspian.

"Do you intend to schedule fights in The Pits?" Harry asked him.

"Yes, Highness. My fights begin later this week. I wanted to have the first couple of days to explore," Caspian answered. Harry nodded.

"Then perhaps I will get lucky enough to see one of your fights. I am spending most of The Hunt in The Pits. I love watching the fights," Harry said excitedly. Varon chuckled.

"Yes, he does," Varon agreed with a slight purr and Harry blushed before glaring at him.

"Oh, hush it you," Harry insisted trying to will his blush away. The others all chuckled.

"I heard you caused quite a scene this afternoon in front of the food court," Tempest pointed out. Harry pouted and shrugged.

"Maybe," Harry said. Varon laughed.

"He broke a Submissive's wrist for touching his Beta," Varon confirmed. Harry glared up at him.

"It isn't as simple as all that. He had it coming. He has had designs on my Beta since our first day here. He had been trying to convince my Beta to leave me for him or merge our circles, which absolutely isn't going to happen. He has been warned subtly many times but wasn't taking the hint. So I had to be a bit more direct with him," Harry insisted.

"He is beautifully vicious," Varon informed the other three.

"Vicious and amazingly kind," Tempest pointed out. Caspian and Leith agreed.

"Well, we are not going to take up any more of your time. It was a pleasure to be bumped into by you, Highness," Leith said with a bow.

"Very nice to meet you," Caspian agreed with a bow as well. Harry smiled at them both.

"It was nice to meet you both as well. I hope to see you both again," Harry said in farewell and then continued to explore the Merrow section with Varon and Tempest. He had so much fun and tried quite a few different weird-looking foods that tasted amazing and some that didn't taste good at all. After about two hours he decided it was time to see his Uncle and Dad. It was time to let them know he wasn't angry and was ready to move on.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Harry!" Laurent exclaimed when Harry stepped into the throne room with Varon and Tempest. He took a step toward Harry as if to pull him into a hug and then stopped. He looked uncertain if his affection would be welcome. Harry gave a small chirp and then went into his Father's arms. Laurent gave a sigh of relief and held Harry tightly.

"Hi Dad," Harry said gently. He breathed in Laurent's scent and relaxed as well.

"I am sorry that we overstepped. You are right. We had no right to interfere with your circle business. I promise that from now on when it concerns your circle, your Uncle and I will not interfere unless you come to us and ask for our help," Laurent swore to Harry.

"However, that same promise does not extend to situations like today," Alcandor insisted. Harry just rolled his eyes and nodded.

"Fine, but you don't get to just start throwing punishments around without figuring out what happened," Harry countered.

"I will agree to listen to what happened. But the punishment is still mine to decide," Alcandor stated. Harry just huffed.

"Only if you are being reasonable. You threatened to flay a man because he was rude. That isn't reasonable," Harry snipped back.

"He was rude to his Prince. That is different," Alcandor insisted.

"But he didn't know who I was. That isn't fair," Harry argued back. Alcandor grinned then and Harry had a bad feeling.

"Then we will make sure that mistake is not made again. You will wear a circlet to make sure that your station is not overlooked again," Alcandor said with glee. Harry frowned. How had he ended up in this position?

"What? How did we get to that conclusion?" Harry demanded. Alcandor laughed and Harry heard his dad and a few others chuckle as well.

"You agreed that the issue is that you were not recognized correct?" Alcandor asked him. Harry did not want to answer. He had definitely talked himself into a corner. Laurent nudged him.

"Fine, yes," Harry ground out.

"Then you will wear the circlet and at least the Merrow will know who you are on sight. If it makes you feel better, your brother has already agreed to it as well," Alcandor told him. Harry huffed and then just nodded.

"Fine," Harry pouted. Alcandor waved his hand and someone came into the room with a box. In the box was a simple circlet that would rest on his forehead and definitely looked royal even if it was simple. Harry just held still and let his father place it on him. Laurent grinned.

" That belonged to your Uncle Al when he was still a princeling. Your brother will be wearing mine," Laurent informed him. Harry just looked up at his uncle and wrinkled his nose at him.

"Don't try to butter me up by giving me yours," Harry insisted. Alcandor just laughed.

"Go home, Guppy. It is late and I know you plan on spending the day around here tomorrow," Alcandor dismissed him. Laurent kissed his cheek and hugged him.

"I love you, Son. We will see you tomorrow," Laurent told him.

"I love you both. See you later," Harry told them and then he and Varon headed home where the rest of his bonded were waiting with dinner and cuddles. This had been a good start to the second week of The Hunt. Even with his confrontation with Nosedive Yanek.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Harry's Mentor Seal

"Are you sure you want to do this now?" Bill asked him. Harry was currently curled up on the couch between Kisten and Cethin. Bill was sitting in a chair opposite them and the rest of their bonded as well as Draco and his were spread out around the room. Harry looked over at Draco. His brother had refused to have his mentor seal removed until Harry did.

"I am ready when you are, Har," Draco told him. Harry smiled, he knew that would be his brother's answer.

"We are sure, Bill," Harry answered.

"Alright, then let's get this taken care of for you," Bill said with a smile. "Quinn? Wanna do the honors?" The healer perked up from his seat cuddled up to Ethan.

I am more than ready. I hate that they have unnecessary seals. The family seals have already been removed this is literally the last seal on both of them. Quinn said happily.

Who first?

"Me," Draco volunteered quickly. Harry gave him a look. He knew what his brother was doing. He was going first so that Harry would know what to expect. 'Thank you' Harry mouthed to Draco and sent feelings of gratitude and love down their twin bond. Draco just waved him off and sent feelings of love right back to him.

Shouldn't hurt at all. This should be your easiest removed seal aside from your family seals Quinn stated as Draco stood up to meet him in the middle of the floor. Lyra and Tanwen followed and stood behind him just in case he needed them. He sent them grateful looks before he turned back to Quinn.

"I am ready when you are, Quinn," Draco said with a smile. Harry could tell he was still a little nervous. Maybe they would spend some time in their Nest room after this. Quinn smiled reassuringly at him and then placed one hand on his head and the other on his chest. Both closed their eyes and Quinn searched within Draco with his magic. He reached the seal and grasped it on either side with his magic and pulled. The seal cracked down the middle and then Quinn pushed a little more magic into Draco to completely dissolve the seal until there was nothing left.

When Quinn pulled his magic out and removed his hands he took a deep breath and swayed slightly. Wikhn's arms were around him in a moment holding him steady. Draco was pulled back so that he was cradled between his King and Queen. Harry was up from the couch and checking on them both.

"Quinn, Draco, are you both ok?" Harry asked. Draco gave him a smile and nodded. Quinn did the same.

"Fine, Har. Just a little rush of magic from the seal breaking. I am perfectly fine. Not even tired or anything," Draco assured him. He let his Gheyo press him down between Fred and George.

I am fine, Love. Just like Draco said. It's just a rush of the magic. No big deal Quinn told him. Wikhn squeezed the healer's shoulder.

"Do you need to take blood? You know mine is as clean as yours," Wikhn offered. Quinn smiled and shook his head.

Not yet. After I am finished with Harry Quinn insisted. Wikhn nodded. He stepped back to give Quinn space but didn't go far.

"Are you sure you are good to do it again?" Harry asked. Quinn grasped his hands.

I am perfectly fine, Harry. I promise. You know I have much better stamina for this kind of stuff Quinn told him with a smile. Harry grinned.

"I know you do. I trust you to know your own limits. Alright, let's do this," Harry said. Cethin and Kisten stood behind him to brace him if he needed it. Quinn stepped forward and placed his hands on Harry in the same way he had Draco. Harry felt when Quinn's magic grasped the seal and cracked it. He felt it dissolve and knew exactly what Draco and Quinn had meant about the rush of magic. He felt the magic in him reach out and fly from him, searching.

He swayed slightly and was pulled back into Cethin's arms with Kisten fussing over him. He laughed at the Fire Queen who was making a spectacle of himself just to mess with him. Quinn was once again held in Wikhn's arms and the Healer didn't decline the offer of blood this time. So Wikhn led him out of the room. The King was still very private about certain things and blood sharing was one of them.

"So what now?" Draco asked and Harry nodded.

"Now we wait for them to show," Ethan answered.

"How much you wanna bet Draco's get's here first?" Fred asked.

"I will bet you five galleons that Harry's arrives before Draco's," George countered. Fred held out his hand and George grasped it.

"Deal," Fred stated. Harry and Draco both laughed. The twins would never change. Harry looked at his brother and held out his hand.

"Up for a cuddle?" Harry asked him. Draco smiled and took his hand and let Harry pull him to his feet.

"For sure," Draco said. Then the two of them headed off to their claimed nesting room. The two of them let their wings out and then curled up together in their nest in front of the fire. "Been a while since we have done this."

"I know. I miss it. We should make sure we take the time to do it more often," Harry agreed. "Feels like we are spending less time together. I was starting to feel a small ache."

"Me too, Little Brother," Draco admitted. Harry poked him in the arm.

"Why didn't you tell me that you had already agreed to wear a circlet for our Dad and Uncle?" Harry accused. Draco laughed.

"I have to pick on you somehow. Besides, I know Uncle Al wanted to tell you," Draco told him.

"Whatever, tell me what you have been up to during the Hunt," Harry asked. So the two of them lay curled up together and caught up on everything the other had been doing. It was really nice to just spend time with his brother like they used to.