Healing, Hugs, and Hunts

Jauren Elswood

A pulse of magic spread through the room and Jauren bolted out of his sleep. It took him a moment to realize what it was and why. Maurice's mentored student had finally inherited. Maurice was sleeping. In a sort of chosen coma. He had been unable to deal with the loss of his circle to the point that he had chosen to sleep until his student inherited. Then he would have that to keep him going.

So Jauren had agreed to have the magic tied to him so that he could wake Maurice when it was time. Apparently, it was time. He felt arms slide around his waist and a gentle kiss on his shoulder.

"What is it, Love?" Alonz asked quietly. Jauren leaned back into his arms and sighed heavily.

"We need to call Ian. It is time to wake up Maury. His student just inherited," Jauren explained.

"It is two in the morning, Darling. Can you wait until morning?" Alonz asked. Jauren nodded and let his Alpha pull him back down in the bed. He lay there for twenty minutes trying to make himself go back to sleep. He felt his Alpha chuckle and then the two of them were getting up.

"Sorry, I tried," Jauren apologized. "It's just, what if he is hurt or something? What if he needs someone now."

"I will send a message to Raijin. It will only take one of you to wake up Maury the other can head to his kid. Will that make you feel better?" Alonz asked his stressed Submissive.

"Yes. That's perfect. Thank you, Alonz. I will start waking everyone up so that we can either prepare to head to Maurice or head to Harry," Jauren stated and then kissed Alonz on the cheek and headed out to do just that. Alonz just shook his head. He should have expected nothing less from his Chaos-blessed Submissive. He sent the message to Raijin and then began packing their things so that they were ready to move when they needed to. He was hoping they headed for Harry. There were too many preparations to make if they went for Maury. The biggest one being dealing with an Empathic Feedback Loop.

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Ian Elswood

The message bubble disappeared after repeating its message. Raijin dragged his hand down his face and took a deep breath. They would be the ones to wake up Maury. They were literally on their way to the pocket realm that housed Maurice's comatose body because Ian had had a feeling that they would be needed. He was right, like he usually was.

"So I guess Ian was right," Ashton stated. "Maurice needed us after all." Raijin just nodded.

"I will send a message back and let Alonz know that we are already halfway to Maury. They will get the duty of tending to the kid until we can get there with Maurice," the Alpha stated.

"That ought to be fun. Especially, with his Chaos blessing. That poor newly Inherited boy," Ashton said with a laugh. There was a throat cleared near them and they turned to see Ian standing in the doorway.

"What are we talking about?" Ian asked. Ashton pulled their Submissive into his arms.

"It is a good thing we were already on our way to Maurice. It is time to wake him up. His kid just inherited," Ashton told him. Ian perked up.

"Really?" He asked. He had missed his Dera. He knew it was time to visit.

"Yes, Alonz just sent a message. They are waiting to find out which of you was closer to Maury so that the other could head to the boy to make sure he is fine," Raijin stated.

"Well, let them know. So that they can go to him. We need to get to Maury sooner. We need to go," Ian said and attempted to pull out of Ashton's arms. The Ace tightened his arms.

"Calm down, Love. We are already almost there. We will get to Maurice before Jauren gets to the kid. Even if we take the night to rest. We need it," Ashton said. Ian whined but Raijin shook his head.

"Ashton is right, Ian. We need the rest. We have been travelling almost non-stop for over a day. Now we know why you felt the urge to come here. We will get there tomorrow even if we rest," Raijin instructed. Ian knew that look in their eyes. He would not get his way with this.

"Fine, send the message to Jauren. Tell him to go to the boy. I am going to find Lyn," Ian slipped out of the room and the Alpha and Ace sighed heavily. They truly were all exhausted and were glad he hadn't put up more of a fight. They would just have to get up earlier than they planned to reward him for not fighting.

"I will send the message and then join you in the shower," Raijin said and kissed Ashton as he walked passed him. He had a feeling things were about to get very Chaotic, very quickly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Hunt Day 9: Merrow Section

Today Harry was Hunting with his Merrow in the Merrow sections. He had already been here for a few hours and had met a lot of interesting people. He had received many favors from others and would have been overwhelmed by the sheer amount of them if he had not already been warned by his Merrow that it would happen. He was their prince after all. Many would send favors to join his circle for that reason alone.

"How about some lunch? You have to be getting hungry at this point," Alec pointed out. Harry shrugged but allowed them to pull him to the food areas. He had been snacking most of the day on different things from the food stalls. He had wanted to try everything.

"Something light, Alec," Varon pointed out. "He has been snacking all day from the different booths." Harry looked at his Joker gratefully. Alec tightened the arm he had thrown around Harry.

"Of course, I am mainly insisting on it so that he can sit for a bit. We have been walking for hours," Alec replied. Harry kissed him on the cheek. He was getting tired. But he had been ignoring it so that he could see as much as possible.

"Can we go for a swim after we eat?" Harry asked. He knew there were underwater stalls and such as well that was mostly just for the Merrow. He wanted to see those as well. He had already bought so many little trinkets for his bonded and his family. The Merrow made beautiful things from materials that could only be found in the water.

"That sounds like a good idea. There is also a small dueling arena underwater that I would like to take you to see. That is where the merrow spar or fight each other when they are not in The Pits," Glynn added. Harry grinned he had heard about it from Varon and Chelan a few times.

"Oh, I definitely want to do that," Harry said excitedly. He was Hunting for Merrow Gheyo after all. "Are they scheduled like at The Pits?"

"Nope, It is a challenge-based situation. Most of the time two Merrow choose to spar and then the winner keeps accepting challenges until they are beaten and then it starts again," Varon said with glee. Harry smirked at him as they sat down at a table.

"So the last man standing gets bragging rights?" Harry asked. The others all nodded. "Sounds exciting. We should go there after lunch and not worry about the stalls and booths. You are all welcome to fight if you want. I would love to watch it. Seeing all of you fighting in your element is exciting." Glynn patted him on the head and they all chuckled.

"That sounds like a fun afternoon. You are getting your only warning, Trouble, the fights between Merrow are a lot more bloody and vicious than the fights in The Pits. You will stay with one of us at all times. Especially if one of us is fighting. We know how you can be after a sparing match and were warned about you jumping Wikhn yesterday," Glynn instructed. Harry blushed and nodded.

"I will behave. I promise," Harry assured them. They ate their lunch quickly with only a little conversation because they knew how excited Harry was to see the fights. When they were finished they headed for the underwater sections. They headed in and quickly transformed into their Merrow forms. They heard a sharp whistle and turned to see Laurent swimming towards them. Harry hugged his dad.

"Hey, Dad what are you doing?" Harry asked after he had gotten a good hug. Laurent grinned.

"I was looking for you. I wanted to spend a little time with you. Where are you lot heading?" Laurent asked. Harry smirked.

"The Trench, I want to watch the fighting. I figure the best place to find Merrow Gheyo is in a Merrow fighting pit. Plus I think they are excited about the prospect of getting to fight," Harry pointed to his Gheyo. They nodded and made noises of agreement. Laurent chuckled.

"I have heard about your fascination with the fights. Can I tag along? It has been a long time since your old dad has been to the trench. I won quite a few fights of my own in The Trench back when I was still young," Laurent asked.

"Of course, you can. It will be nice to spend time together," Harry told him. "It will also make my bonded feel more comfortable joining in on the fun of the fighting to have you and your guards with me."

"For sure," Glynn said with a smile. "Let's get going." Harry nodded and then they were all swimming down to a large trench at the bottom of the area they swam to. Harry was in awe. The Trench was a giant ravine in the ocean floor and at the bottom was a large fighting arena where two Merrow were currently fighting. There was a crowd of people sitting in bleachers that had been carved into the sides of The Trench. There were also food vendors and other types of vendors selling favors and other things. Harry loved it. It was less organized and official than The Pits. Harry thought that made it even better.

He sat down with Alec on one side of him and his dad on the other. They were surrounded by his bonded and his dad's guards. Harry was immediately enraptured with the fight. He could tell they had been fighting already for a bit because their weapons had been discarded on the floor of the arena. The two Merrow were ripping and tearing at each other with claws. It was all very Primal and instinctive. It took Harry about five minutes to realize that he recognized one of the fighters. It was Caspian.

Harry watched him like a hawk. He was magnificent and vicious. He was aware of every strike he landed and every wound he received. He was startled when he felt a nudge. He only acknowledged it with a questioning chirp. He heard a few chuckles.

"Our Troublemaker met one of those fighters yesterday. He is the one who gave Harry the flower he came home with," Varon pointed him out to the others.

"He was the rude one that my brother threatened to flay?" Laurent asked. Varon nodded. Harry scowled.

"Don't judge him from one bad day. He was hurting yesterday. I don't know why but he was in a lot of emotional pain. The rudeness was just his way of coping. He apologized and was quite kind after that," Harry said without looking away from the fight. It looked like Caspian was going to win. The other Merrow was slowing down and was only using one of his arms now.

"He looks like he definitely knows how to handle himself in a fight," Chelan pointed out. Harry nodded.

"Is he someone that you would consider trying to court?" Marin asked from behind him. Harry thought about it and after a moment he nodded.

"Yeah, he was rude at first but he corrected his behavior. He seems like he feels things very deeply and isn't afraid to acknowledge when he is in the wrong. Also, he was paying enough attention to me at first to know exactly which flower I was looking at that distracted me enough to trip over my own feet. Plus he is clearly a good fighter," Harry said with a grin as the Merrow Caspian was fighting conceded the fight to him. Harry watched as Caspian quickly healed a few of his wounds and took a drink of something that was sitting near the ring.

"What is he doing?" Harry asked when he didn't leave the arena.

"Waiting for his next challenger," Glynn pointed out.

"Oh yeah, you guys already told me that. I just forgot. So he will keep fighting until he loses?" Harry asked them. Another Merrow stepped into the ring to fight him. Someone swam forward and counted them in and the fight was on.

"Normally, yes," Laurent answered him.

"Most of them do not step out of that ring unless they are defeated or it is the end of the day," Alec added. "It is a pride thing for most of us. The more opponents you beat before you are beaten is something to brag about."

"When I was your age I slipped away from my guards and came to The Trench. I stepped into the ring for the second match and held my place all the way up to the last fight of the night. I wanted to prove that I could fight just as well if not better than my guards. I was rebelling because my parents wouldn't let me go anywhere without an escort," Laurent said with pride.

"And did you prove your point?" Harry asked. Laurent chuckled.

"I proved my point that I was perfectly capable of handling myself. My parents agreed to take two of my guards off my detail and gave me a little more freedom. But I still wasn't allowed to go anywhere alone," Laurent said and Harry felt him shrug his shoulders.

"That's pretty impressive, Dad. I hope I am that good of a fighter one day," Harry said with a smile.

"I am sure that you will be from what I have heard from some of your bonded," Laurent insisted. Harry smiled up at his dad and leaned into Alec before turning back to watch the fight. Harry was impressed to see Caspian win three more fights before he was shocked at who swam into the ring next. He turned around to see his Merrow grinning at him. He grinned back at them and turned to see his Gheyo Prince, Marin grin at Caspian and shake his hand. They exchanged a few words and then Harry smiled and waved when he saw Caspian look up into the stands and straight at him. The Princess smiled at him and waved back.

"Our Prince wanted to spar with him to test him for us," Glynn informed Harry. "You know just in case the two of you decide to court. We need to make sure that he is up to all of our standards." Harry nodded.

"That makes sense," Harry agreed. He was just happy to get to watch his Prince fight finally. "Are all of you going to spar today?"

"Thinking about it. We will let Marin try to win a few before Chelan swims into the ring," Glynn answered.

"So gonna go in order then. That is smart. It gives you all a fair chance to show off," Harry said happily. He hoped all of his Merrow did a great job today so that everyone knew how good they were and how lucky Harry was. After one hell of a vicious fight that lasted a good long while, Marin finally beat Caspian. The two of them shook hands again and were panting and laughing. Harry had watched the fight the entire time. It was so good to see. He smiled happily as Caspian healed Marin before exiting the ring to heal himself.

Harry turned back to watch Marin as the next opponent swam into the ring to face him. Harry was very impressed with his Prince.

"Hello again, Your Highness," Harry turned and smiled up at Leith who was standing with Caspian. They were both smiling at him. They bowed before standing upright again.

"Hi, Leith. You fought beautifully, Caspian," Harry said in greeting. "Would you like to join us if you aren't busy?"

"Are you sure? We don't want to impose," Leith asked. Harry just smiled and waved them in. Alec stood and pulled Harry up and into his lap so that his spot was open and Chelan moved down a spot so that there were two empty seats now. Leith sat next to Harry and Alec while Caspian sat next to Chelan.

"Let me introduce you. This of course is my father Prince Laurent, my Ace Glynn, my Queen Chelan, my Joker Varon, and my Alec. You met my Prince Marin in the ring. Everyone this is Leith and Caspian. I met them yesterday," Harry introduced everyone.

"You are a very good fighter," Glynn complimented Caspian. Harry nodded with a smile.

"Oh, you definitely are," Harry agreed. Caspian inclined his head and smiled.

"Thank you. Needed to blow off some steam and this is always a good way to do it," Caspian answered. Leith nodded and clapped his brother on the shoulder.

"Cas has always worked out his frustration or problems with his claws," Leith said with a fond smile. Harry turned back to watch Marin while he talked with them. He didn't want to miss his fight.

"So are you feeling better today?" Harry asked him. He really wanted to know if he was still hurting.

"Yeah, I discovered some pretty devastating things yesterday. But after taking the night to work through everything and talking it over with my brother, I am realizing that it isn't so devastating after all and actually a really good thing. So I am much better today, especially after the fights," Caspian answered him. Harry smiled at him.

"That is really good to hear. I am glad that you aren't hurting the way you were yesterday. You said you were planning on fighting in The Pits later this week didn't you?" Harry asked him.

"Yes, Your Highness," Caspian answered.

"After seeing you fight today I am curious to see how you fight on land. Oh, Marin won," Harry pointed out happily.

"I could give you my schedule if you want?" Caspian asked a little hesitantly. Harry smiled at him and nodded.

"I would like that. I am trying to make sure I see all of my bonded fight at least once so I am working around their schedules to catch other fights. It will help me plan around all of that if I have your schedule," Harry told him. Caspian pulled out a schedule and handed it to him. "Thank you."

"Your Prince is impressive," Leith stated. Harry preened proudly.

"Yes, he is. All of my bonded are. I have been told that I have very picky taste in Gheyo," Harry said proudly. Leith and a few of his bonded chuckled.

"He does. He spent the entire first week in The Pits entirely unimpressed by all of the fights. The first fight that caught his attention was between a Storm Ace and the Fire Blood title holder," Alec pointed out. Harry just blushed and shrugged.

"I spend a lot of time around very impressive fighters. The Blood Raven is my Bonded and The Blood Wraith and Blood Rain are essentially my mothers-in-law. Besides all of that my Gheyo are all impressive," Harry simply stated. "You were among the twenty Merrow that are open to Hunting this season weren't you?" Harry asked Leith.

"Yes, I am ready to join a circle. I am in a good place in my life with work and finances. I can contribute to a circle now. I did not Hunt last season and am open to a mixed circle," Leith answered him.

"You were not among those that were willing to bond into a mixed circle so does that mean you are not Hunting at all or what?" Harry asked Caspian as he watched Marin continue to fight.

"It is complicated for me. I am Hunting and I am open to a mixed circle. But I was courting someone else, a King who absolutely did not want to bond into a mixed circle. He and I are no longer courting," Caspian said a bit vaguely. Harry could feel that whoever this person was they were the reason for the hurt that Caspian was feeling yesterday. Harry wanted to wrap the man in a hug and was glad when Leith reached over and discreetly squeezed Caspian's hand in reassurance.

"It is a change for the better," Leith said with certainty. By this time Marin had already won his second match and was getting ready to start his third. Harry watched with a grin as Chelan stood up and swam his way down toward the arena. It was apparently almost his Queen's turn to fight. Harry watched Caspian nod in agreement.

"Are all of your Gheyo going to fight?" Caspian asked and Harry was happy to let him change the subject.

"I think so. They all want to show off," Harry said with a smile. "I like it when they show off."

"Your Gheyo are very lucky to have found a Submissive that appreciates the fight," Caspian responded. Harry blushed a little when his bonded made noises of agreement. Laurent chuckled from his other side.

"His Gheyo parents are happy about it as well. Harry's siblings do not share his love of the fights. Frank my Ace was so animated when he was talking about spending some time with you in The Pits yesterday. He also said that you told him that you are happy to let him help you train," Laurent said. Harry nodded.

"I think it will be fun to let him help me train. It will help us get to know each other better," Harry said as he snuggled into Alec, Marin looked like he was finishing up this fight as well. Harry loved how vicious his Prince was. It made him feel all hot and bothered like he had after Wikhn's fight yesterday. Merlin, he loved to watch his men fight. The others around him talked some more about the fights and other things but Harry just watched Marin.

"Marin won again," Glynn pointed out and no one missed the hint of pride in his tone. Harry trilled happily and Alec tightened his arms around him and nipped at his ear. Harry purred and turned to kiss him.

"Easy, Kitten," Varon said with a smile. Alec pecked his lips again and then grinned.

"It is always fun to play with you when your instincts are riled up," Alec whispered in his ear. "Now turn around and watch your Prince and Queen show off for you." Harry turned and nipped playfully at Alec's chin just as Marin and Chelan started fighting in the arena. Harry and his entire group sat quietly through the fight and watched as their two bonded fought valiantly against each other. Harry had seen them spar many times and knew that the two of them were not holding back with each other.

Finally, in a quick move that Marin didn't expect, Chelan pinned him down with claws at his throat. Marin lifted his arms in surrender and Harry purred when Chelan leaned down and captured Marin's lips in a fierce, claiming kiss. There were cheers and catcalls from those who were watching. Chelan pulled Marin up and the Prince left the arena grinning and made his way up to Harry in the stands. Harry waited impatiently as Caspian volunteered to heal up Marin. When he was done Harry lifted his arms and chirped for the Prince to take him into his arms.

"You fought beautifully, My Prince," Harry purred at the Gheyo as he was settled in his lap. They all continued to talk while Harry and Marin teased each other. Chelan fought two fights that he won after beating Marin. Laurent got a message from Alcandor and had to leave after that. Harry promised to have dinner with his family soon so that they could all spend time together again. Harry perked up when the next fighter entered the arena with Chelan.

"Oh, that's Tempest. That is the King who helped guard our home the night of the Fabrine Hunt," Harry pointed out.

"You are right," Glynn said and leaned forward in his seat. He had already been talking to the others about Tempest. He was someone Glynn wanted for his suit if Harry liked him.

"He guarded me yesterday as well after I ran into Uncle Al," Harry said absentmindedly. "He is really nice."

"Good fighter as well," Alec pointed out. Harry nodded. He was a good fighter. Harry was impressed. He was learning that he was far more impressed with the Merrow Gheyo than he was with the fights in The Pits. It must be his Merrow heritage that appreciated the viciousness of the Merrow more. Whatever it was it had his instincts close to the surface. He was going to either have to spar with his Gheyo when he got home or take a few of them to bed.

The fight was fierce and bloody. Harry was enraptured by the way the two Merrow moved together as they fought. It was really nice. Harry saw out the corner of his eye as Glynn stood up to make his way to the arena. After a really good fight, Chelan was pinned and Tempest was the victor. They shook hands and exchanged a few words. Tempest turned when Chelan pointed and waved happily up at Harry. The Submissive happily returned the wave. Chelan kissed Glynn and wished him good luck before making his way back up to Harry and the others.

Caspian once again healed Harry's bonded and Harry switched to Chelan's lap to continue watching the fight. His Ace was magnificent. They once again put on a good show Tempest was an amazing fighter. He could see why his uncle had sent him to guard him a few times. He was keeping up with Harry's Ace quite well. The fight seemed really close and once or twice Harry was sure that Tempest was going to win. In a spectacular move, Glynn finally got Tempest good enough that the King conceded the fight to Glynn. The two exchanged friendly words and then Tempest stepped out of the ring to allow a healer to look after him.

"That was quite amazing. I thought that Tempest was going to win a few times," Harry admitted.

"Tempest has the makings of a really good Ace. He has been considering ranking up after this Hunting Season," Varon informed them. Harry seemed a little disappointed. If Tempest wanted to rank up to an Ace then he wouldn't be interested in bonding into Harry's circle as a King. The Joker reached over and tugged on Harry's ear.

"What?" Harry said with a smile at his Joker. Varon just gave him a knowing look.

"He is Hunting as King this season. He is content with his current rank and is only considering ranking up if he doesn't bond into a circle this season. Don't look so disappointed," Varon teased. Harry just smirked at him and stuck his tongue out. Varon just leaned over and pecked him sweetly on the lips.

"Your Highness, it is good to see you again," Tempest said with a bow. Harry smiled up at him.

"It is good to see you again as well, Tempest. You fought really well. You almost beat my Ace a few times," Harry greeted him. Tempest pulled out a favor and held it out to Harry.

"I was hoping that you would accept this favor and allow me the opportunity to get to know you better," Tempest said with a nervous smile. Harry grinned up at him even wider and accepted the favor. He deposited a pretty trinket into Tempest's hands. It was one that he had picked up earlier at one of the stalls. It was a pretty shell charm with a green pearl in the center of it. Tempest accepted it with a blinding smile and pressed a kiss to Harry's hands. Harry blushed prettily.

"Would you like to sit with us for a bit if you aren't busy?" Harry offered. Tempest shook his head.

"Unfortunately, I just came down here to blow off some steam before my shift started. I must go so that I am not late. I am happy that I ran into you though. I knew you mentioned yesterday that you would be back today so I was carrying that favor with me just in case," Tempest told him.

"Thank you, Tempest. I hope you have a good shift," Harry said and the others told him goodbye as he swam away back toward the surface.

"Glynn will be happy about that," Chelan said with a grin. Harry just laughed.

"I figured so. I saw the way he watched him fight you. I also saw the way all of you watched him fight with Glynn," Harry teased. "You weren't very subtle about it."

"We weren't trying to be," Marin said with a grin. Harry just laughed and turned back to the fighting. His Ace was kicking ass. After he won a few fights they all started talking to each other quietly again as they watched Glynn dominate the ring. Harry and his bonded talked with Leith and Caspian and got to know them a little better. Caspian was hoping to join Crimson Tide one day and Varon was giving him tips on what was expected of members of the elite guard.

"After this, they will only have one more fight for the day," Varon told him. "Your Ace just might be the day's victor." Harry smiled proudly. All of his bonded were so good. Then there was a murmur through the crowd. Harry noticed why and laughed. His uncle had come to stir up shit he was sure. Alcandor made his way up to the stands to sit with Harry and Krym was waiting outside the arena to challenge Glynn when his fight was over.

"Nephew," Alcandor said with a smile. "I heard that you and your bonded were down here wiping out the competition. I decided to bring my own Gheyo down here to join in on the fun." Harry laughed and hugged the Merrow King.

"Hi, Uncle Al," Harry said happily. "What are you going to do if my Ace beats your Ace?" Alcandor laughed.

"That isn't something I have to worry about, Little One. Your Ace will not beat my Krym," Alcandor teased. Harry just shrugged and snuggled back into Chelan.

"I guess we will see," Harry stated.

"I guess we will," Alcandor said and then looked around at those with Harry. "Has the Princess been better behaved today?" He said and indicated Caspian. "Do I get to flay him today?" Harry rolled his eyes and elbowed his uncle.

"Be nice," Harry ordered. "He has been on his best behavior today. I got to watch him fight earlier and he did an amazing job." Alcandor just sniffed and then pointed down at the arena.

"Time to watch the last fight," Alcandor teased. "Care to make a wager?" Harry grinned and nodded. "Alright if Krym wins you must spend a day with me as my assistant when I have to go to meetings and such with the other royals."

"Alright, and if Glynn wins you and yours have to spend the day with me and mine on the beach all day. No work or meetings or anything. Just all of us spending a day together as a family," Harry insisted. He hadn't gotten to spend too much time with Alcandor and his circle since coming to Nevarah. They were always so busy same for his dad, Laurent. Alcandor smiled down at Harry and pulled him out of his Queen's lap and into his own.

"Deal, Nephew," Alcandor agreed. He was going to give Harry that day of family time whether he won or not. It was obviously something that his Nephew needed. He had learned from stories that Laurent and Harry's bonded had shared with him that his nephew was very tactile and craved affection. Harry just smiled and stayed happily sitting with his uncle while their Ace's fought.

The fight between them was the longest and most vicious fight that they had seen all day. Each Ace at one point or another got very close to beating the other. There was a lot of back and forth between them. Finally, it looked like Glynn was going to take the win. He had Krym pinned and was just about to place his claws at his throat with the other Ace used his tentacles and pulled Glynn backward unexpectedly and pinned him down. Krym grinned and placed his claws and Glynn's throat. Harry huffed and sat back against his uncle and pouted.

"He almost had him. You got lucky," Harry said to his Uncle. Alcandor just laughed.

"I will admit that I was a bit worried there a few times. I thought for sure Glynn was going to win," Alcandor admitted. Harry smiled and waited patiently as Caspian once again healed one of Harry's bonded. Krym had been healed by a medic that had come with Alcandor.

"Great job, Uncle Krym. You couldn't have lost just this once? Now I have to spend a day as Uncle Al's assistant and attend all the stuffy royal meetings with him," Harry said with a pout. Krym laughed and kissed Alcandor on the cheek. He did the same to Harry before Harry was pulled into Glynn's arms and kissed senseless. Harry was putty in the Ace's hands by the time he pulled away.

"You fought so well My Ace. I am very impressed and proud of you," Harry purred into Glynn's ear. The Ace tightened his arms around Harry. "I think it is time to go home."

"I think it is time for us to say our goodbyes," Leith said with a smile. He and Caspian did exactly that.

"I will send you a message letting you know what day I want you to come and spend the day with me," Alcandor told Harry before he and his left as well. Harry and his bonded circled up and Glynn ported them to the transportation room on the lower levels of their home. It was underwater and used exclusively by Harry's Merrow. Varon pulled Harry into a searing kiss.

"I am going to let the others know that we are home and then I am going to see what has been going on with everyone else today. I will leave you to enjoy your other Merrow," Varon told Harry. The Submissive just smiled and let him go. So far Varon had only ever had Harry alone or with Donovan. He didn't share very well but seemed to have no issue with Donovan joining them. Harry figured it had something to do with the three of them being together the first night they bonded.

Once Varon was gone Harry wrapped himself around Glynn again. Chelan and Marin were already leading Alec into a bedroom. Glynn and Harry followed. The room was not submerged and the bed was huge. All five of them would fit with no issues. By the time dinner rolled around Harry and his Merrow had joined together in every way possible. He had fed from all of them and was once again sparking when he touched anyone else.

That was probably why Harry found himself eating dinner in Hadrian's lap with Wikhn on one side and Aither on the other. Of all of his bonded, the three of them enjoyed it when he sparked the most. Harry figured he would find himself sharing a bed with one or more of these three tonight and wouldn't be doing much sleeping. It was a good thing that he was so energized.

"How was your day, Trouble?" Bill asked him from the head of the table. Harry smiled at him.

"It was a great day. We spent the first part in the Merrow sections above water and then we went below and they took me to The Trench..." Harry excitedly explained their day and the fights to his Alpha and the others around the table.

"He also lost a bet against our King," Varon said with a laugh. Harry groaned and stuck his tongue out at Glynn.

"Your fault for not winning," Harry said in a way that let the Ace know that he wasn't at all mad. Glynn just shrugged.

"It is a rare Gheyo that can beat your Uncle's Ace. You should never have bet on that fight," Glynn teased him.

"So what do you have to do?" Draco asked him.

"I have to spend a day as our Uncle's assistant. I have to go with him to all meetings and such with the other Royals," Harry pouted.

"Well, I will at least be around to help ease the day for you," Peryton stated. "I attend all meetings with my sister." Harry brightened up a bit at that.

"Oh that will be nice," Harry said happily.

"Some of your Gheyo will be with you as well, as a guard," Bill pointed out.

"Your bag of favors is getting large again," Ethan announced after dinner when they were all sitting around together. "Do you want to schedule a day to meet back up with Luna and your family like we did last time?" Harry looked over at Draco. His twin just shrugged.

"Your choice little brother. I will help you sort through them no matter what," Draco told him. Harry smiled. He loved having siblings.

"I have a date with Damon tomorrow but that is all that I have scheduled to do. Maybe we can see what Luna and the others are doing and then if they aren't busy we can do like we did last time. If they aren't available then we can just do it here at the house," Harry said.

"Sounds good," Draco said. Ethan nodded his agreement.

"Great, I am sure that Luna has just as many favors built up as I do," Harry said with a smile. Bill stood up and ruffled Harry's hair.

"I will go and send a message to Lucius and he can pass it on to your Mera and Luna," Bill informed him. Harry reached out for Bill's hand before he could step away. A spark of magic passed between them and Harry tilted up his head.

"Kiss please," Harry said with a grin. Bill laughed and leaned down and pressed a very chaste kiss to Harry's lips. He didn't even flinch when he was zapped with Harry's excess magic. Harry laughed and Bill flicked his nose.

"You do that on purpose when you are like this. I know you do. You try to get everyone to touch you so that you can see how they react to getting sparked," Bill said with humor. Harry just shrugged and leaned back into Hadrian's arms.

"I will neither confirm nor deny that," Harry said and shivered when Hadrian nipped at his neck.

"We don't mind," Wikhn said from next to Harry and Hadrian. He was leaning against the Ace and playing with Harry's hand causing sparks to jump between them.

"We love it when he spends alone time with his Merrow," Aither agreed. He was sitting next to them but not currently touching Harry.

"Pleasure to be of service," Chelan teased. The Merrow loved how hyper and teasing Harry was after taking blood from them. He almost never frowned or was in a bad mood when he was sparking from Merrow blood. Bill just laughed and left the room to send his message.

"I take it you will not be joining the rest of us tonight?" Caelus asked as everyone started to get up and head off to bed. Harry just grinned and shook his head. He was going to be sharing a room with Hadrian, Wikhn, and Aither. He wondered how much more fun it would be with Hadrian involved. Wikhn stood up and took Harry from Hadrian while he and Aither got up from the floor as well. Harry was thrown over Wikhn's shoulder and Hadrian smacked him on his bum. Harry squeaked at the impact and then blew a kiss to his other bonded as he was carried out of the room.

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

The Hunt Day 10

He had been right. Adding Hadrian to the mix had been quite exciting. Harry got a real taste of what it meant to be dominated by the three of them and when he woke up sore, covered in bruises, glitter, and blood he was so relaxed and sated that he curled back up between his Gheyo and just laid there happily between them.

The four of them lay in bed just gently touching and talking about nothing in particular. It was a great morning and Harry felt so happy and settled. There was a gentle knock at the door and Harry called for whoever it was to come into the room. Quinn was on the other side. He smiled at how relaxed the four of them looked.

"I hate to interrupt your very relaxing morning, but it is time for you to get up if you want to have time to shower before you get dressed and head out to meet the Air Queen," Quinn spoke into his head. Harry smiled up at him and nodded.

"Ok, Quinn. Shower with me?" Harry asked. The healer nodded and approached the bed. Harry lazily kissed the three others before he crawled to the end of the bed and let Quinn lift him out of it. Quinn took him to the main shower in their resting room and sat him on the counter while he got the shower ready.

"How have you enjoyed your Hunt so far?" Quinn asked him. Harry smiled.

"It has been great. I am having so much fun. Are you going to be busy today?" Harry asked him. He felt like he hadn't spent a lot of time with his non-Gheyo. He was going to have to take some time away from The Pits to spend with them.

"I am not busy today. What do you have in mind?" Quinn was finished getting the water to the right temp and was quickly shedding his clothes and throwing them into the hamper. He lifted Harry off of the counter and the two of them stepped into the shower under the water.

"After my date with Damon, will you go through my favors with me, Ethan, and Draco? We are going to either do it here or at my parent's house," Harry asked him as Quinn began washing him.

"That sounds like a fantastic idea. I would love to do that with you. I know last time you didn't want Mistral to heal you, do you feel that way today or do you mind if I heal you?" Quinn asked Harry about the bruises and marks from his night with the others. Harry smiled and kissed Quinn chastely on the lips.

"You can heal them this time. I don't want to be covered in live bites when I meet Damon for brunch," Harry stated. "You can see them through my normal clothes I think my claiming marks are sufficient to let others know I am claimed." Harry groaned in pleasure when Quinn began washing his hair.

"Feel nice?" Quinn asked and Harry could feel Quinn's body move with his silent chuckles. Harry nodded.

"It feels amazing. But you have always been really good with your hands," Harry said quietly. Quinn kissed his cheek and then turned him so that he was under the spray of water. Harry felt him trace the runes into his skin for healing and just let Quinn handle him as if he were putty. He was just so relaxed and was pretty sure that nothing could ruin his mood today. It was a great way to start the day. He was hoping that by the time lunch was over he would be officially courting Damon and that would only make this day better.

When Quinn was finished rinsing Harry he moved to turn the water off but Harry stopped him.

"I already had a shower today after my morning run," Quinn told him with amusement. Harry just shrugged.

"Please. I just want to spend a little more time with you," Harry begged the healer. Quinn smiled gently and kissed Harry again. He nodded and allowed Harry to wash him the same way he had the Submissive. When he was rinsed off Harry wrapped his arms around the Healer and laid his head on his chest. Quinn stood there and held the Submissive who clearly craved uncomplicated soothing touch today. Quinn had not missed the way the three Gheyo had been gently touching Harry when he came in. The Gheyo were not usually so gentle when they handled Harry.

"As much as I am absolutely loving this, it is time to get out and get dressed. You don't want to be late, My Love," Quinn insisted quietly. Harry just nodded and pulled away. Quinn dried himself with a drying charm but took his time to actually dry Harry off with a towel. He could tell from Harry's smile and how relaxed he remained that it had been a good choice. He lifted Harry into his arms and then set him down in front of Ethan and Oliver for the Pareya to fuss over him and help him get dressed. Mistral was standing to the side and Quinn went to him and allowed him to help him get dressed as well.

Quinn leaned back into Mistral's arms as they watched Harry giggle and coax gentle kisses from his Pareya as they helped him into his clothes. He was in such a lovely mood. When it was time to fix his hair he called for Mistral and made him sit on the chair. Harry sat down in Mistral's lap facing him and allowed Ethan to fix his hair while he talked quietly and shared kisses with his Storm Pareya.

"You are very affectionate today," Oliver pointed out when he was all dressed and insisted on being carried downstairs to the main sitting room. Harry just shrugged.

"Want to be touched today. Feels nice," Harry said simply. When they entered the sitting room Theo was the first one to him. Harry smiled and reached for his always-calm, Beta. Theo happily took him into his arms. They shared a slow, lazy kiss. "Morning Theo."

"Morning, Princess. You look very relaxed and happy this morning," Theo said with a smile. Harry nodded.

"I am happy and relaxed. Are you going with me today?" Harry asked his Beta. Theo smiled and nodded.

"If you want me to. I know that Bill was planning on going do you want us both to go?" Theo asked him. Harry nodded.

"Yes, please. You and Bill can keep each other company while I talk with Damon and then we can all have lunch together before we come back home," Harry stated.

"I thought you wanted to have lunch with Damon alone, Trouble?" Bill asked as he walked up to them. Harry shrugged and let his Alpha pull him into his arms. Bill kissed Harry's lips and then caressed his cheek. Harry nuzzled his hand.

"Want to be with all three of you for lunch. Damon won't mind. I will talk to him alone first to let him know how I feel and see what he has to say about it before you two join us for lunch," Harry told him. Bill nodded.

"Then that is what we will do, Love," Bill agreed. "Let's get going so we aren't late."

"Oh, did you get a message back from my parents?" Harry asked before they moved. Bill nodded.

"Yeah, they aren't busy. You, Draco, and whoever else can go over there when we get back. Luna apparently told them yesterday that you were going to ask and made sure they didn't make plans for today," Bill said with a chuckle.

"It is nice having a seer in the family, honestly," Harry laughed. "Bye, everyone." Harry let each of his bonded that were present kiss him and nuzzle him gently before the three of them ported away. They were meeting Damon at The Dive. Apparently, it was a popular place to meet for dates.

"Damon," Harry called out when the Gheyo was in sight.

"Hey, Troublemaker. It is good to see you," Damon said with a crooked smile. "It is good to see you again as well, Bill." Damon shook Bill's hand and then turned to Theo. "I haven't had the pleasure of meeting you yet."

"This is Theodore Gorgens-Nott, my Beta. Theo this is Damon," Harry introduced the two of them. Damon grinned and then winked at Theo when he shook his hand.

"Aww, I finally get to meet the famous Beta. I see why Harry has been so vicious in his defense of you against that other Submissive. I was very curious," Damon teased. Theo blushed a little and Bill threw an arm around Theo's shoulder.

"He is definitely worth all the fuss," Bill said. He gently nudged Harry toward the Queen. "We will leave the two of you to your date. I would suggest sitting next to each other instead of across from each other. Have fun." Then Bill and Theo walked off a little way to watch the Dragel that were showing off in the air. Harry stood as close to Damon as he thought he could get away with and then slipped his hand into the Gheyos.

Damon simply gripped Harry's hand and tugged him just a little closer so that their arms were touching as they walked.

"I already reserved us a table. It is big enough for Bill and Theo to join us if you want. I don't mind," Damon told him with a smile. He let Harry sit and then scooted into the booth next to him like the Alpha had suggested. Harry slipped his hand back into Damon's.

"I would like for them to join us for the actual meal but I wanted to talk to you first if that's ok," Harry said with a smile. Damon could tell that today, Harry was a lot 'softer' than he was the other times that Damon had been around him. He seemed utterly relaxed and calm. More affectionate as well. Damon had not missed the way the Beta and Alpha had him pressed between them and gently touched him. Even the nudge toward him had been more gentle than usual.

"That sounds perfect, Harry," Damon told him.

"I would like for you to court me properly. I have known that I wanted you for my circle from the first day I met you. I accepted a favor from another Queen only because I thought I should so that I was being fair. But my Alpha and Rheyo pointed out that sometimes it is just instinctual and that is perfectly ok. That if I knew I was going to choose you from the beginning that I should stick with that," Harry blurted out. Damon was quiet for a few moments. "I mean, only if you want to."

"Of course, I want to. I just figured that you would choose an Ace first before deciding. That is the normal way of doing things. But I should have known from the beginning that you didn't do things the normal way. I am happy to court you properly. Honored that you have chosen me," Damon told him. Harry was so happy.

"I have something else that I need to tell you as well before we go any further," Harry started. He hoped this didn't change Damon's mind. "My suites are a bit of a mess right now. I learned last Saturday that my Storm King and Princess didn't bond into my Merrow Suite. They didn't feel right. So instead of building a completely new suite, I am actually filling in missing spots for a suite that is already started. Adad would be your King and Styrmir your Princess. Is that something you could be ok with?"

"You are right that is a bit of Chaos, isn't it? But I expect a bit of Chaos from you at this point. That is information I already knew, Trouble. The King and Princess told me about it on Monday. Said they had learned a lesson over the weekend about keeping important information to themselves. They knew I was interested and so were you. I actually like them both. It will be a strong suite no matter who is chosen as Ace and Prince. I am still interested in courting you," Damon informed him. Harry trilled happily. His Bonded were amazing. He gave a Heartcry that Damon was happy to reciprocate. The Queen pulled Harry into a hug.

"Thank you, Damon. I have known I wanted you to be mine from the first day. I am so happy you said yes," Harry told him. He rubbed his face against Damon's shirt and sighed happily. Damon just held him and let him stay in his arms as long as he wanted.

"Do you want to exchange claim marks now or do you want to wait?" Damon asked him. He wanted to place his claim mark on the Submissive as soon as possible. Harry was a catch that anyone would be happy to have. He was kind, affectionate, vicious, understood what it meant to be a Gheyo, and was also incredibly handsome as well.

"Here is fine if you don't mind. I want to place my mark on you as soon as possible. I don't want anyone to try and snatch you up," Harry said with a laugh. "Do you have a preference on where you are marked?"

"No, I have noticed many of your bonded carry your mark on their neck. If that is your preferred place, then I am happy with that," Damon told him. Harry leaned back and smiled.

"I would like to put it there," Harry said and then placed it when Damon tilted his head to the side. Damon placed his mark on Harry's wrist. They sat together and quietly talked for a little bit longer about Damon's job and other things.

"Are you ready to eat?" Damon asked finally. Harry nodded and tugged on his bonds with Theo and Bill. The two of them joined them pretty quickly and they congratulated Damon and Harry on agreeing to court.

"I want to court you as well, Alpha," Damon said with a grin. Bill winked at him and relaxed back on his bench.

"Harry and I figured that you would," Bill said confidently. "I am open to it. We get along quite well." Damon laughed and settled back as well and happily tucked his arm around Harry when the Submissive scooted closer for contact. He fingered the circlet on Harry's head.

"This is new," Damon commented. He had noticed it earlier but hadn't really paid any attention. Harry blushed and then pouted when Theo and Bill laughed.

"His Uncle, King Alcandor, insisted that he wear it from now on so that there aren't any misunderstandings among the Merrow or anyone else about who he is," Bill explained.

"I tripped and fell into someone and their brother was quite rude. Alcandor overheard and threatened to flay the poor man. It was a whole thing that ended with me agreeing to wear the circlet so that there weren't any more excuses for the Merrow who are rude to me. Honestly, he is just being overprotective. The Gheyo is actually a really nice man he was just having a bad day. We actually spent most of yesterday with him and his brother," Harry explained. Damon and the other two laughed and Harry just ignored them.

Their food arrived and the four of them continued to talk while they ate. Damon was happy to court them but he wanted to wait until Harry had chosen and bonded with his Ace before completing their bond. Harry understood that it was an instinct thing. They didn't part ways for a few hours. Harry promised to let him know the next time they were in The Pits. He let him know he was planning on spending at least the next day at home or in the other areas of The Hunt with his non-Gheyo.

Harry, Bill, and Theo said their goodbyes and then they ported back home. Harry sat and cuddled with Theo as Bill went to find the bonded that were going to accompany Harry and Draco to their parent's home. Bill made sure that the Gheyo that accompanied them were the ones that were more affectionate. Harry, Draco, Ethan, Quinn, and the Gheyo ported away to sort through favors with Luna and the others.