Healing, Hugs, and Hunts

Evanson-Malfoy Home Still Day 10

When Harry, Draco, and the others arrived. Lily, Luna, and Narcissa were waiting for them already in the sitting room. The difference this time was that their grandparents and Su were missing and Alice was actually sitting with them. Harry and Draco hadn't had much interaction with her at all, she seemed kind of unapproachable. They settled on the floor around the already expanded table.

Draco sat down and Harry indicated for Quinn to sit next to him and Ethan to sit next to Quinn. Harry's Gheyo, which was Enlil, Kisten, and Brishen each cuddled Harry close and nuzzled him a bit before he was put in Quinn's lap and they headed off to find the other Gheyo in the house. Harry happily snuggled as close to Quinn as he could get. Ethan handed communication cuffs to each of the people in the room who didn't have a connection with Quinn so that everyone could talk to him without issue.

"Awfully cuddly today, Harry. Is anything wrong?" Lily asked once they were all settled. Harry shook his head no.

"Nothing wrong, just feel the need for lots of cuddles today. Everyone has been very accommodating," Harry replied.

"Well, nothing wrong with that," Narcissa answered.

"Where is Su?" Draco asked. He figured she would be down there with them like last time.

"Oh, her Mentor came and spoke with us about taking her. Apparently, the two of them had grown very close and their instincts told them they belonged together. Su says it was the most connected to family that she has ever felt even when she was with her parents," Lily answered.

"How did Ernie take that?" Harry asked. "They seemed to be close."

"He took it fine. They still see each other often," Luna answered.

"Well, that's good then. I am glad they are figuring things out," Draco stated. "Now let's get to those favors. Harry's have been piling up since the Reaping." Luna grabbed her bag and poured it out on the table it was even more full than the last time they had done this. Harry's was too when Ethan dumped his out.

"Oh, I meant to tell you," Luna said with a smile and plucked a favor out of thin air. "Ginerva and I decided on an Alpha. We are going to meet him tomorrow."

"Congratulations Luna-girl. Who is he?" Harry asked. Luna smiled dreamily.

"His name is Keanu. He is an Air Alpha," Luna told them.

"Have you met him yet?" Draco asked. Because you just never knew with their sister. Harry nodded it was a valid question.

"No, I've just told you we are meeting him tomorrow. But I know he is the one for us. Ginerva likes the feel of his magic as well," Luna answered. Harry smiled brightly.

"I am happy for you Luna-girl. I know it will go really well," Harry congratulated his little sister. Finding his Alpha and Beta had been a really exciting thing for him. He hated that Draco hadn't gotten to find his like Harry and Luna had. The process of choosing and being chosen had been wonderful. Draco like always, had apparently guessed his line of thought and reached over to pat his knee.

"I wouldn't change a thing about how I got my circle. I didn't have to go through the bother of worrying over rejection or knowing whether or not they were meant for me. This was better, Har. I swear," Draco assured him. Harry smiled and linked their fingers together.

"Alright, ready to get this going? First things first, favors from friendships and alliances," Lily stated. Narcissa did the spell for Luna and Ethan did it for Harry. Once again Draco took the offers of Friendship and scooped them into a bag. Harry figured they should probably start looking through those. Draco laughed and squeezed Harry's hand.

"What do you think I have been doing all day while you are in The Pits? I have been talking with your Pareya and the others and I have been making connections for both of our circles. I have a list of families from everyone in both circles that they have a quarrel with or don't. Making sure they want connections for the right reasons and that they are good people. I got it covered. This is what I was raised to do. The lessons stuck," Draco assured Harry. Harry laughed.

"I love you, Drake. You are literally the best twin anyone could ask for," Harry exclaimed. Draco just smiled.

"I know, Har," Draco agreed. Then he waved his hand for Harry to continue with his favors. Ethan separated them into the normal six stacks. Harry immediately burned the Alpha stack as did Luna. Apparently, she was very sure about the Alpha she and Ginny had chosen.

"Oh, your friend Ron has chosen a military circle to train with. He is officially a Page. The Circle is from the Fire District, all fire types, it will be good for him," Alice pointed out.

"That's great. If he trains hard he should be ready to Hunt or join a circle by the next Hunt," Harry answered. Alice smiled.

"Very good. Yes, it will take him that long to decide and settle into a rank," Alice agreed. Harry smiled at her.

"I spend a lot of time with my Gheyo. I learned things about how it works. We have been in conversation about becoming a military circle once we are complete. Maybe after The Hunt," Harry told her. She seemed surprised.

"Really?" She asked. It was apparently hard for her to associate soft, Silk-covered, snuggly Harry with someone who would be fine in a military circle. Harry shrugged.

"It has been talked about," Harry told her. "I love learning to fight. It has been great letting my suites train me. On land and in water. Frank has talked to my Alpha and Ace about being involved. You are welcome to as well if you want." Harry offered to the only parent he wasn't close to.

"That would be lovely, Harry. I just might do that," Alice agreed. She hadn't really believed Frank and the others about how much Harry understood what it meant to be a Gheyo. She figured if her own son who was born of two Gheyic parents, didn't understand that there was no way any of their children would.

"Wonderful," Harry said and then turned back to his favors. Ethan had pulled the Beta stack toward him.

I heard you burned it last time. Are you going to burn it this time too? Quinn asked him with a smile. Harry shook his head.

"This time I have actually met a few Beta who know I may be on the Hunt for one. I will at least look them over this time," Harry answered. Luna on the other side of the table set that stack on fire as well. When she got to her Pareya she actually started sorting through them. Harry looked up at Ethan.

"What is it, Love?" Ethan asked him. He caressed Harry's cheek and kissed him on the head.

"You are my Head Pareya, my Oracle, and you know so much about everything. Do you think I should add another Pareya to help balance out all of the Gheyo?" Harry asked him. He was pretty sure he had heard someone talk about it but he couldn't remember what was decided. Ethan smiled at him.

"That's right. I am your Oracle but I can fill other roles such as taking care of finances which I don't have to do because of Theo and managing Schedules which I am currently doing. Oliver fits in the role of Deracle. He has the combat and weapons training to do it and it was the role he always wanted to be in when he bonded into a circle. Mistral, would be your Eracle as he is very good a mediating within the circle and keeping discord to a minimum. He has also been incredibly helpful with Draco and their networking. I would suggest adding at least one Pareya a Toracle but no more than two. The second rank can be anything you like if you choose to do that," Ethan explained to him.

"The Toracle is the one who only defends the sub right?" Draco asked. He spent a lot of time with his Pareya and Harry's Pareya he had learned a few things. Ethan nodded.

"Very good. That is exactly right. My job as Oracle is to protect all of the Pareya. Oliver's job as the Deracle is to protect the circle, minus Harry. A Toracle's job would be to only protect Harry. They would concentrate on nothing else and trust Oliver and I to handle the rest. So like I said I would consider looking for Pareya with Toracle tendencies because that is the gap we currently have in our circle," Ethan answered.

"Definitely do that," Draco told Harry. So, Harry started going through the Pareya favors like he had the others. First, by smell and feel of magic. The ones that did not attract him he pushed away.

"Do you three want to read through these with me? You all know what we are looking for. Draco knows me better than anyone and you two will do a lot of interacting with a new Pareya," Harry asked.

We would love to help you if that is what you want Quinn stated. Harry nodded.

"It's what I want. You and Ethan know more about all of this than I do right now so your input is valuable and wanted," Harry assured his healer. Luna on the other side had three stacks in front of her. "How are you doing yours Luna-girl?"

"Oh, this stack is 'No' this stack is 'yes' this stack is 'maybe'," Luna told him. The 'no' stack was high. The 'yes' stack had two in it and the 'maybe' stack had quite a few. "The maybe's depend on other bonded, of course."

"Of course," Harry and Draco said together. There was small chatter while the group went through favors. When it was done, Harry had five Pareyas that he wanted to send return favors to. Ethan handed him the paper and Draco pulled out the favors. He made sure to put all of his information in the letters and let them know what he was looking for specifically so that there were no miscommunications. He would leave it up to them to respond if they were interested in that particular place in his circle.

"Are you done with the Pareya?" Ethan asked. Harry nodded and Draco pushed the stack of Betas toward him.

"You got distracted and forgot to actually go through the Beta stack," Draco told him with a laugh. Harry just rolled his eyes and pulled it toward him. Just then Severus came into the room with trays of snacks and finger foods. He settled the trays around the table on the floor so that they could all eat them while they sorted favors.

"Thanks, Dad," Harry and Draco said before turning back to the table. He chuckled and ruffled their hair.

"The two of you are doing that more and more often. It's more adorable than I thought it would be," Severus said before making his escape out of the room.

"He isn't wrong. You have been doing it a lot when you answer or talk to people," Ethan pointed out. Harry and Draco just shrugged.

"This is the most time we have ever spent around each other. In school, we were in separate dorms and not really allowed to talk to each other except when we managed to sneak away. Now we live together and spend a crap ton more time together. It was bound to have an effect on our bond," Draco answered. Harry nodded and continued to sort his Beta favors while Quinn fed him.

"Oh, here is one from Leith. The Merrow I spilled food on the other day. He was really nice but I don't know if I want to add another Merrow apart from the two I need to add for my Suite to be complete. It might unbalance my elemental harmony. I will just have to see," Harry stated as he sat Leith's favor in the yes pile. He came across another favor that made him happy. Ariki Deveraine had sent him a favor as well. That was nice, he had enjoyed talking to the Beta, Theo seemed to like him, and he was Ilsa's son. All of those were points in his favor. He ended up putting two more Beta's in the pile and then burning the rest.

"Alright, moving on to the Aces," Draco stated. Harry took a minute to think about it.

"I will sort them but I am not going to send any favors yet. I have my eye on Raiden right now and I want to see how that works out before I decide whether or not I need to look at more," Harry told them and so he ended up with two more Aces that he was willing to exchange favors with but just not yet. He sat them to the side to be kept just in case. Luna set fire to her entire stack of Aces.

"What did you do that for?" Lily asked her. Luna smiled.

"My Ace will not send a favor. He wants to be chased. So I will chase him," Luna explained. Harry laughed.

"Zandian does seem like the type to want to be chased," Harry said knowingly. Luna nodded and winked at him.

"Thank you for introducing us, Big Brother. It is going to be fun," Luna replied.

"Oh, I met him didn't I?" Draco said suddenly. "The Blood Title Holder for the Fire Court, Right."

"That's the one," Harry answered.

"He was quite good-looking and seemed quite fun. Good on you Luna-girl," Draco congratulated. Harry nodded his agreement.

Your family is going to be stacked with important people and great connections without ever trying Quinn stated with a quiet chuffing laugh. Harry loved the sound of it.

"We don't mean to, we are just following our instincts," Harry answered him.

I know. That's what makes it even better was Quinn's response.

They continued to go through their favors until they were finally finished. Harry had accepted and returned a few favors in each Rank other than Mage and Queen. He felt like Logi was the one he wanted. Especially, after meeting him and Damon had agreed to court him. Luna had her stacks taken care of as well and so they talked for a little while longer before Harry, Draco, and company headed home for the evening. It was time for dinner and bed. Plus Harry still wanted lots of cuddles and the evening was the best time to get them.

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After Dinner day 10

"Did I just feel someone at the wards?" Harry asked as he was cuddled up between Theo and Charlie.

"Yeah, It's awfully late for visitors. All of our family is keyed into our wards and uses the transportation room. So it isn't family," Draco stated. He was currently playing a game of Exploding Snap with Blaise.

"Hadrian, Styrmir, and Sota are on patrol right now. They will see to it. If it's important they will bring them in or call us out," Bill assured them.

" Besides, it didn't feel urgent or anything like that. Just a gentle brush across the wards to let us know they were there," Sol added.

"That's true," Harry and Draco said together and relaxed again.

"Even if it was someone with bad intentions, they wouldn't get very far. We have enough Gheyo here to start an army," Fred said from where he was draped over Victor.

"I know, isn't it nice to be so well protected?" George added from his place on the floor next to Blaise. Just then Hadrian came around the corner with a man following behind him.

"Dad?" Harry and Draco both exclaimed at the same time. The man paused and looked a bit shocked.

"Why?" Harry started and stood up Draco placed a hand on his arm.

"Not Dad. But Merlin, they look nearly identical," Draco corrected. Harry nodded. Then both gave the newcomer identical looks of confusion. Hadrian chuckled. They were adorable. He kissed Harry and ruffled Draco's hair, which earned him a scowl. Then he headed back out to continue his patrol. He figured the man could introduce himself.

"You are?" Draco asked as Harry linked his hand with his. The man seemed to shake himself from the initial shock of being called dad.

"I am Lewis Peverell, I am here for Draconis Evanson-Malfoy. I am his Mentor. Are one of you Draconis?" The stranger, Lewis asked. Draco raised his hand.

"I am. But please call me Draco. So you are my Mentor?" Draco asked him.

"Ha, I win. You owe me five galleons," Fred said with glee and George pulled them from his pocket and slapped them into his twin's hands.

"Twin terrors, hush," Sol remanded and the twins sighed dramatically and wrapped themselves around her. She just wrapped an arm around them both and let them have at it. If they were distracted, they weren't causing mischief.

"Harry, Draco, offer him a seat," Bill called out.

"Oh, right," Harry said with a blush.

"Please, make yourself comfortable," Draco added and then indicated an empty chair. Lewis sat down with a smile.

"It is very obvious that you didn't just inherit. Could you explain why I was only just notified?" Lewis asked once he was settled. Harry and Draco sat down on the floor in front of him.

"Oh it's complicated but the short version is I inherited at sixteen like I was supposed to. A really bad person put a seal on my inheritance. It was dangerous for us to remove it at the time. There was a war my brother was captured and tortured. He gave a soulscream. Our bond was wide open at the time and the soul magic triggered a soulscream for me as well. That was a little over a month ago. It has all been a little chaotic between settling in here with each other and The Hunt. We only just found the time to remove the Mentor seal two days ago," Draco gave him a quick rundown of what happened.

"That sounds like a lot to unpack," Lewis stated. Harry and Draco both nodded. "First, I would like to apologize for coming so late this evening and for taking two days to get to you. I have been dealing with something very personal within my circle. I was only just able to get away and if I did not come now I would have chickened out again to stay home with my Submissive. I am very happy to meet you."

"It's ok. At least you showed up," Draco answered. Harry tugged on Draco's hand. He was trying to stay quiet because this was between Draco and Lewis. A mentor bond was special. "What Harry?"

"You said your name is Peverell, right?" Harry asked. Lewis nodded. Harry turned to Draco. "That was Dad's last name on my inheritance test. Plus he looks exactly like Dad. Do you think they are related?"

"Could be," Draco said. "Did you have family on Earth?"

"I suspected I did but I never had proof. There was a bunch of drama and my brother left home. We wrote letters back and forth for a while and I know he had a son, Charlus. But then we lost contact and I haven't been able to find him since," Lewis told them.

"Oh, well you might really be related to him then," Harry said with a smile.

"Him, but not you?" Lewis asked. Harry and Draco both nodded.

"Yeah, we call him Dad because he is part of our Parental Circle, his name is James. But we don't actually share blood with him. So you wouldn't be our Uncle but you would be our older brother Neville's Uncle. James' dad was Charlus. Though they went by Potter in the Wixen world, not Peverell," Draco answered him.

"That is very interesting information to have. I will need to look over the family tapestry. It will be recorded on there. If it is true, I will be very happy to get to know my brother's children," Lewis responded. "Now, I know it is late, so I will ask, do you want to take some time to get to know each other now or do you want to wait and we can make time tomorrow to get to know each other?"

"Oh, I would prefer we wait until tomorrow. We were just winding down from supper and about to head to bed for the evening. Tomorrow, I will be more rested and have more time to spend with you," Draco answered.

"That sounds good. I will send a message tomorrow with a time we can even meet here so that you are more comfortable," Lewis told him. He stood from his chair. Harry and Draco stood as well. Harry went back to sit with Bill so that Draco could say goodbye on his own.

"I am happy to meet you. I can feel that we are going to get along just fine. This is my Ace Arashi, he will lead you back out to the transportation portal you used to get here. He will key you into the outer wards so that you can access the property. See you tomorrow," Draco said. Lewis pulled him into a quick hug and Draco hesitated for a moment before he returned the hug.

"It is good to finally meet you, Draco. See you tomorrow," Lewis said and then he followed Arashi out of the house. Draco sat down in Sol's lap and accepted kisses from Fred and George, who had still been messing with the Alpha.

"Well, that was interesting," Draco said with a smile. Harry nodded.

"Yeah, I really thought it was Dad for a minute, they could really be twins," Harry answered. Harry yawned and snuggled closer to Bill.

"Tired, Trouble?" Bill asked. Harry nodded and buried his face in his Alpha's neck. "Then let's head up to bed."

"Good idea," Sol said and she stood with Draco in her arms. Sol led her lot off to their resting room and Bill did the same with his. Harry was already mostly asleep by the time he was snuggled between Theo and Caelus on the bed. It had been a good long day and his bonded had done a great job of keeping him cuddled close and pampered today when he needed it the most. He felt so loved.

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Maurice Elswood: Pocket Realm

Maurice opened his eyes and stared at the roof of what looked like an old hut. What was he doing here? Where was here? He sat up and looked around. He was in a small hut. There was nothing in the room but the bed he was lying on and the chair his son, Ian was currently sitting in. Ian opened his mouth to say something but Maurice held his hand up and Ian closed his mouth. He just needed a few minutes to catch up to what was going on.

The last thing he remembered was petitioning the courts for Charum Mortus. It had taken some convincing on his part but they had finally agreed. He had been preparing for it. Dividing his assets between Ian and Jauren, making sure he had no debts, and leaving his sword, Rykers Bane to Mariana Cunningham. That had been hard, she had been so mad at him and begged him to stay with her and that she would help him heal. He hadn't been able to do it.

None of this explained why he was in a hut sleeping. Oh, he had agreed to be put to sleep. He had been on his way to complete Charum Mortus when his boys had come to him. They had been going through his mail at Emerald Hollow. He had finally been assigned as a Mentor. He had let his boys convince him to abandon his quest to end it all and to stick around for this young man who was going to need him.

But he hadn't been able to move past the pain of his loss. So after a year, he had come up with a plan. He would go to sleep, he would sleep until his boy inherited and then he would waken to be there for him. The hope was that being a mentor would help to fill the hole of all that he had lost. Keep him distracted enough to heal and live. Maurice turned back to Ian.

"Harrison has inherited then?" He asked him. He just needed to be sure. Ian smiled and nodded.

"Yes, Dera. Jauren has already headed to him and I was already on my way here to visit with you," Ian informed him. Ian looked antsy sitting in the chair so Maurice opened his arms and was not surprised when Ian nearly flew across the space between them and let him wrap his arms around him.

"I missed you," Ian said. Though it was muffled by the fact that his face was buried in Maurice's neck. Maurice just squeezed him tighter.

"Missed you too, Love," Maurice said and continued to hold him until he finally let go and eased back into his chair.

"Now, I know you are going to want to rush off to Harrison but you need time to wake up and recover from sleeping for so long. My circle and I have rented out rooms at a Traveler's Lodge close by. You will come there with me, shower, eat, take blood, and give yourself time to return to full strength. You will do Harrison no good if you can not even take care of yourself. Jauren is looking after him. Let me look after you," Ian stated. Maurice wasn't very happy with it, but he knew Ian was right.

"Alright, let's go then," Maurice agreed after a moment. Ian smiled at him and helped him out of the bed. Then they ported away to the Lodge to start working on Maurice's recovery.

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Hunt: Day 11

"Quinn's family is performing their blessing today, right?" Draco asked Harry while they were waiting to get into the hunt grounds.

"Yeah, that's why he left early this morning. He will be coming with his family," Harry answered. By this time, they had reached the front. Ethan and Fleur accepted the favors that were waiting there for Harry and Draco.

"So, who is going up with Harry to our box?" Bill asked. Draco, Fleur, Sol, and Tanwen were going to the viewing box. Fred and George were going to talk to someone about opening a shop after The Hunt. Harry was pretty sure it would be a joke shop. The rest of Draco's bonded were heading to The Pits.

"Princess Ebony wants to see Charlie so the two of us are going to be busy with that for a bit," Theo informed them. Caelus would be with Harry and Bill.

"Mistral, Oliver, and I are going to be up in the box as well," Ethan stated.

"Enlil, Kisten, and myself will also be in the box," Riven stated. He had informed Harry that he would have to leave the realm soon. He was being called away. Harry wanted to spend as much time with him as he could until then.

"I have some family business to attend to so I will not be there now but possibly later," Brishen told him. Alec also had business to attend to so the other Merrow would go with him to guard him. Other than Varon who was still taking advantage of the week he had been given to be with Harry. He would be with Harry in the box. Hadrian and the other Gheyo would be heading out to do their own thing and would check in with him randomly throughout the day.

"Well, since that is all settled let's get this day started," Bill said. The ones that were leaving kissed Harry or scented him before leaving. Then the rest of them made their way up to the viewing box.

"You have two dates today don't you?" Bill asked him. Harry nodded.

"Yep, I am going to have lunch with an Air Ace, Xander," Harry told them.

"I thought you had pretty much chosen the Storm Ace, Raiden. I honestly thought it was another situation like Damon," Bill pointed out. Harry shrugged.

"Not really. I..um..am a bit unsettled when it comes to him. At first, it wasn't that way. I was very sure that I liked him and that he would fit with us. But recently, it is like his scent has changed or something about him has caused a slight irritating itch in the back of my mind. I don't really know how to explain it honestly. I just don't feel as sure about him anymore," Harry tried to explain.

"That's ok, Harry. You have been following your instincts and they have been leading you right so far. We are a creature that is more in tune with our instincts than most," Ethan told him soothingly.

"I would like to figure out what it is about him that has set my instincts on edge so that I can fix it and go back to enjoying his company. I liked him," Harry said wistfully. Bill patted his hand and kissed his cheek.

"It will work out the way it is supposed to, Trouble," Bill assured him. Harry nodded and took a seat between Mistral and Oliver.

"Your second date is with the Fire Mage, right?" Ethan asked. He was the one who had sent off the correspondence but he just wanted to make sure he was remembering correctly.

"Yeah, I am supposed to meet him around three," Harry reminded him. Ethan nodded.

"We will make sure you are ready for both. I will accompany you to the first and take the opportunity to do a little shopping," Ethan said a bit excitedly. He loved shopping for them all. Enlil wrapped an arm around him.

"I will accompany you," The Air Princess offered. Ethan nuzzled him in thanks. Harry was just happy to be with them all. Mistral and Oliver kept playing with his hair or hands and the constant touching and fussing made Harry feel delicate and cherished. It was really just a continuation of the care they had all shown him yesterday.

Harry was happy to sit and watch the few shows that took place before the Kalzik's Blessing. There was a fire dance that was so pretty and was put on by a group of friends. There was a display of Earth manipulation that had Harry comparing it to things that he had seen Theo do. Theo was the most powerful Earth element Harry had met, in his opinion, other than Ilsa.

Then it was time for Quinn to perform with his family. They came into the center in two lines of beautifully dressed people. There was so much color and finery. They were something so entrancing to look at all together lined up from end to end. Harry found Quinn almost immediately and then was captivated by him the entire time. He knows vaguely that Surajini stepped up centerstage and that she gave a signal that started them all off dancing.

Quinn was graceful and lovely to watch. Harry watched as he took his turn on the stage with Surajini and her sisters. He added his magic to the flame that was growing into a towering pillar. Then he returned to his place. They continued to dance and perform until everyone had added their magic to the flame. When it was all done and the dancing stopped the announcer made comment about receiving the Blessing that the Kalziks had asked for on their behalf.

When the Magic exploded out into the room Harry and Draco braced for the backlash of it to reach them but when it did, it was the gentlest of touches that made them smile. Everyone in the box reacted the same. It was lovely to experience and Harry couldn't wait to tell Quinn exactly that. He was so exceptionally proud of his Healer. After, they left the stage, the contained Heartcries began. Harry and Draco thought it was a strange practice. Harry really enjoyed the process of Hunting. He enjoyed the back-and-forth of sending favors and receiving them.

About an hour later, Quinn came through the door still in the beautiful outfit he had worn on stage. Harry snuggled up close to him and nuzzled him.

"You were lovely, Quinn. I am so proud to call you mine," Harry told him before he pulled him down into a gentle kiss. Quinn smiled at him and held him tighter.

I am glad that you liked it, My Harry. I am so proud to be yours Quinn replied. Then they settled back down with Quinn in his chair and Harry on his lap. They continued to watch the Heartcries on stage and talked quietly together. It was exactly the kind of day Harry had been hoping for. At least it started out that way.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lunch

"Harry, stop worrying, Quinn asked for space. He will come to you when he is ready to talk about it," Ethan told him gently. Harry nodded.

"I know you are right. I just can't help but worry. I can't believe Shayla gave a soulscream. Why would it upset him so badly for Dyshoka and Kyle to be called by it?" Harry asked. "We have talked about how he got his scars but I don't know what that has to do with him being upset."

"He will tell you all about it when he feels ready. You know he will," Ethan assured him. Harry smiled up at his Pareya while he was tucked close to his Princess. Enlil kissed his cheek and Harry relaxed. It wouldn't do him any favors to go into this date upset and preoccupied. He knows that Wikhn had arrived just after Quinn had taken off and once Wikhn knew he left to follow Quinn. Harry knew his King would watch out for him.

Wikhn was probably dealing with his own issues about what happened. Dahlia had been involved in the scream as well and Harry knew that she was the one who had Wikhn's heart before he had been called by Harry's Scream. He probably understood whatever pain Quinn was going through better than the rest of them. Harry sincerely hoped that the two of them could offer each other the comfort they needed.

"Chin up, Love, you have a lovely Ace to meet," Enlil said and nodded his chin in the direction of the food court. He was right. Harry was pretty sure that Xander was among the most handsome men that Harry had ever seen. He knew it was him because he had seen his picture but it didn't truly do him justice. He was sitting at a table already and it was already covered in different takeout dishes from the vendors around them. Harry loved trying new things.

"Oh, he is lovely," Ethan agreed. Harry nodded and let the two of them nudge him in the right direction. When he reached the table the Ace gave him a bright smile and stood to pull his chair out for him. Harry smiled back and allowed the man to gently push him back up to the table.

"Hello, Harry, it is so good to finally meet you," Xander said as he took his seat again. "You are even more lovely up close than you were during your introductions though watching you fight during the Reaping is a close second." Harry blushed prettily.

"Thank you, It is good to finally meet you in person as well Xander," Harry greeted him back. "Before we get really started here, I have something to tell you that might change your mind about courting me." Xander held up his hand to stop him with a smile.

"First, make yourself a plate. You can tell me whatever it is while we eat," Xander told him kindly.

"I am starving and some of this smells amazing. I am still so new here and I haven't had the chance to try everything," Harry said gratefully. Xander added things to his plate as well as his own and when they were finished he indicated for Harry to begin. So, Harry did. He told him all about what had happened with his Suites and the fact that he was looking for an Ace that was willing to become part of a suite that was already part of the way done. He didn't leave anything out.

"So, I have told you everything now. I will completely understand if you want to politely bow out of the chaos that seems to follow me around," Harry said finally. Xander didn't look like someone who wanted to bow out though. Harry was hopeful.

"You already have a Storm King and a Storm Princess correct?" He asked Harry.

"Yes, Adad and Styrmir. They both have fights later this week. I can give you a schedule if you want to check them out," Harry offered. Xander smiled.

"I would like that thank you. Then you said that you just had an Air Queen agree to court you but that won't bond in until you have chosen an Ace," Xander reiterated.

"Yes, Damon Torres," Harry offered. Xander perked up.

"I know him. He has served under me for patrol a few times. He is a very good fighter and has a personality that keeps me on guard when I work with him. Sharp wit and all that," Xander complimented. Oh, that made Harry feel better. At least Xander and Damon were familiar with each other. Even worked together before.

"Wonderful, I am glad you are already acquainted. My Alpha and I enjoy his company quite a bit. He and My Alpha have very similar personalities," Harry informed him happily. "So, you aren't going to run far away?"

"No, I am not going to run far away. I want to get to know the three that you are bonded to and courting to make sure that we are compatible and capable of working together. Fighting is necessary to work that out. Are you going to be ok with that?" Xander asked him. Harry grinned.

"I do love a good fight. I hope I get to watch," Harry said happily. Xander grinned right back.

"Nothing would make me happier than to prove my worth with you watching," Xander stated. Oh, Harry liked him. The conversation moved on and they talked for a little over an hour more before Xander had to excuse himself to return to duty.

"I am so happy that we finally got to meet. This was really nice," Xander told him. He then took Harry's wrist and pressed a gentle, barely there kiss to his inner wrist. Harry blushed again and Xander smiled at it.

"It was really nice. I had a good time. Thank you for still considering me even with all of the crazy things going on with my Suites. I hope you have a good shift and that we can meet again soon," Harry stated. Then Xander gave a beautiful sweeping bow before flipping out the most gorgeous pair of glittering white wings that Harry had ever seen and disappearing into the Air.

He was still looking up into the Air where Xander had disappeared when he heard a throat clear behind him. Harry blushed and turned figuring he had been caught staring by one of his bonded. But the two people standing there were not people Harry recognized. The smaller of the two smiled and indicated the Air.

"He was quite lovely and put on quite a show for you. Is he yours or are you courting?" The smaller man asked. Harry turned around fully and placed one hand loosely next to where he had a blade concealed in his scarves. He also tugged on his bonds to Ethan and Enlil. He could feel another bonded close to him so he pulled that bond too. They didn't look threatening, in fact, they were putting in a great effort to appear very unthreatening. But Harry had learned the hard way to be careful.

" Neither, this was our first meeting. I am hoping to court though. May I ask, who you are and what business you think it is of yours who I am bonded to or courting?" Harry asked as politely as he could. He was sure he was being offensive. His brother was so much better at politeness than he was. The smaller man chuckled and smiled at him.

"Feisty. I like that. It isn't any of our business, I was just being polite. If he was yours or you were courting I was hoping the compliment would be received well. But I can see you are a suspicious little thing. I am Jauren Elswood and this is my Alpha Alonz. I am looking for Harrison Evanson-Malfoy. Are you him?" Jauren asked him.

"And If I am? Why do you want to know?" Harry asked him. He had not moved from his ready position. His bonded had taught him how to be ready without alerting his opponent. They told him it would be his best tactic. He was small, delicate, and pretty. His clothes made of silk and scarves. No one would expect the three blades, the poison ring, or the poisonous snake he always had on him. They definitely wouldn't expect him to fight instead or run.

"You clearly have a lot of bonded and to be so suspicious something must have happened to cause it. Why are you alone and unprotected?" Alonz asked. Harry could sense genuine concern from him when he felt for it. Then he felt the emotion sputter out as if a wall had been erected between them.

"Who says I am unprotected?" Harry asked. Then he caught sight of a feathered mask and felt Hadrian slip into place at his back. Harry knew his smile turned predatory when Hadrian nuzzled the side of his face before standing back to his full height. "And I am never alone for long." Jauren laughed and Alonz elbowed him.

"You are delightful. My Dera is going to have his hands full with you. We were expecting a newly inherited Dragel stumbling about waiting for a Mentor to arrive. Instead, we find a young man very much comfortable with his inheritance and with a large circle at his back. I am sure there is a very entertaining story involved here," Jauren said happily. Just then Quinn and Wikhn arrived with Ethan and Enlil just behind them. "More of yours? "

Then Jauren stepped away from his Alpha. At the movement, Harry unsheathed a blade into each hand. Only Hadrian's hand on his hip kept him from leaping forward. This apparently amused Jauren and his Alpha even more. He continued without pause, he placed one foot slightly behind the other and bowed formally with one hand over his heart.

"The House of Elswood has no Quarrel with yours. I extend our friendship and goodwill towards you and yours. May this be a prosperous friendship," Jauren said formally and sincerely. Harry could feel it with his Empathy as if the man was pushing the feelings toward him on purpose. That combined with the way Alonz had closed himself off to Harry let him know that they were used to dealing with Empaths. Hadrian gently removed both blades from Harry's hands and stepped back.

Harry had already gone over the etiquette of the situation with Bahn and Briar so he knew what to do. He mirrored Jauren and smiled.

"Serpent's Requiem acknowledges the House of Elswood and has no Quarrel with you and yours. We accept your hand of friendship and goodwill and offer you the same. May this be a prosperous friendship," Harry stated as politely and formally as he could. He stood upright and preened under the feelings of pride that his bonded fed to him.

"Very well done. I don't know why I expected to have to walk you through that. I should have known better," Jauren said. Harry could hear the hint of pride in his voice as well. Hadrian handed him his first blade and he slid it back into the sheath in the small of his back. Harry smiled at the two across from them.

"I inherited when I was fourteen. I learned a lot of truths that day that changed the course of my life. I met my true family for the first time and learned that I had siblings. I was weighted down with harmful seals that were removed as soon as they could be. All but the mentor seal. Removing that one could have alerted the man who placed the seal in the first place and that would have been really bad. I gave a soulscream a little over a month ago and triggered one for my twin as well," Harry paused when Hadrian handed him his second blade. He slipped that one into place just under his ribs in a glamoured sheath that went across his body under his clothes.

"After that we moved to Nevarah and between settling in, claiming my circle, and The Hunt, I completely forgot that the seal was still there. My Healer," Harry indicated Quinn. "Removed the seal on myself and my brother a few days ago. My brother's mentor showed up last night. In fact, I am pretty sure he is with him now. I guess that means you are my Mentor?"

"Goodness, no. I am Chaos Blessed and going just based on that story the two of us would cause all kinds of trouble for our circles if I was. No, I am here because my Dera, Maurice is your Mentor. He was going through some things and requested to be put to sleep until you inherited. I was keyed into you so that we would still be aware when you did. My brother Ian is waking up Maurice. He will take some time to heal up from sleeping so long and then he will come for you. Until then I have taken a vow to see to you as he would until he arrives," Jauren explained to him. Harry grinned. He had heard his bonded groan when Jauren mentioned being Chaos Blessed. This could be fun.

"Well, I am happy to meet you. I am sorry for all of the suspicion and such. But, if you didn't gather on your own my life has always been a bit less than nice," A few of his bonded snorted at his rather weak representation of the things that he had been through. He waved them off. "However, now that I know you aren't a threat to me and mine we will get along great. I am Immortal Blessed as well. This could be fun." Quinn stepped up and kissed Harry on the cheek. Harry looked at him to make sure he seemed fine.

I am fine, Love. I promise. Standing out here is drawing attention. Why don't you invite them back to our box so that we can all be comfortable while we talk Quinn suggested.

"Great idea, Quinn. Let's do that," Harry said happily. Jauren laughed.

"Wanna explain for those of us who do not have a mental connection?" He asked. Harry blushed.

"Quinn suggests we head back to our box so that we don't continue to draw a crowd. That way we can be comfortable while we talk. Want to?" Harry asked.

"We would love to," Alonz accepted. "The rest of our bonded are wondering around is it ok if we give them the location when we get there so that they can find us when they are ready to?"

"Oh, absolutely. Though you will have to vouch for them before mine will let them in. They are very careful about my safety," Harry said and indicated the five bonded standing around him.

"That much is obvious. Though the way you drew your blades and the fact that your Ace stood behind and not in front of you says a lot about how much they trust you to handle yourself," Alonz stated. Harry blushed and followed along as Ethan and Wikhn took up the lead.

"Yes, well, I am a Ferros. I am fast and I am being trained. I am learning and they are trusting me to learn," Harry answered.

"And your Empathy gives you an advantage in a fight as well," Jauren stated. Harry grinned and nodded. "You are going to have to learn to shield better though. I and mine will help you and yours learn properly. My brother and I are both Empathic and our Dera has a similar gift. If the four of us end up together in a room we are going to have to shield with more than our own willpower. If we get stuck in an emotional feedback loop it will be bad for us and our bonded.

"My Grandma Jun mentioned something about that. But we didn't get that far with training. She said other than her and potentially my Mentor it was unlikely that I would come across any more Empaths regularly. But this is just another way that I am a defeater of odds," Harry said with a shrug. "Happens a lot."

"And you are sure you are not Chaos Blessed? Sounds an awful lot like life with Jauren," Alonz said teasingly. By this time they had made it back to their box.

"Picking up strays, Trouble?" Bill asked with humor from his spot with Caelus tucked into his side. Harry waved him away.

"Oh hush you. This is Jauren and his Alpha Alonz. They are here because of my Mentor seal being removed," Harry informed them all. Bill grinned and stood up. Caelus followed behind him. They both shook hands with the newcomers.

"Are you his mentor then?" Bill asked.

"No, Bill, my Mentor is his Dera. He couldn't come to me right now so Jauren is here in his place until he can get here," Harry told him. "This is my Alpha Bill and our Rheyo Caelus. The others can introduce themselves as they wander around. Let's sit down. If I know my Quinn, snacks will be served soon."

Harry spent a few hours talking to Jauren about his life and getting to know him. Harry really liked him and if Maurice was anything like Jauren then he was going to be in good hands. He also spent a little bit of time teaching Harry really good techniques for keeping his Empathy from getting away from him.

"Harry, Love," Ethan interrupted them finally. Harry turned toward him with a grin.

"Yeah, Ethan?" Harry responded. Ethan ran his fingers through his hair to smooth it out. Harry also felt a brush of magic that straightened his clothes and tidied him up.

"It's almost three. You need to head out to meet your Mage," Ethan reminded him. Harry's whole face brightened.

"Oh, right, Logi. I am so excited," Harry said. He turned to Jauren. "I have to go. I have a date with a gorgeous Fire Mage."

"Courting?" Jauren asked. Harry nodded.

"Hopefully, after today. We have met briefly and I have seen him fight during the Reaping. I like his flames," Harry said with a happy sigh. Jauren chuckled.

"I am sure it will go the way you want it to," Jauren said happily. "We will hang around until you get back. Go be charming."

"Oh, I plan on it. That Fire Mage is meant to be mine. Now I just need to convince him," Harry stated. Bill threw an arm around his shoulders.

"I am going to meet up with Dad for a bit so I am gonna go with you. So is Kisten and Hadrian. They will give you space but will be close enough if you need them," Bill told him. Harry snuggled close and nuzzled his neck.

"Sounds good, Bill. Let's go. I don't want to be late," Harry said. "We are meeting outside of the food court. There is a really big field there where people picnic. That is where we are going to be."

Harry, Bill, Hadrian, and Kisten all headed out for the food court. When they got there, Logi wasn't there yet. So, they waited. Bill went ahead and left to meet with Arthur. Hadrian leaned up against a tree they were next to and Kisten pulled Harry down onto a huge black sunstone with him. He entertained Harry by calling a few small balls of flame and making them dance around in front of them.

"Heill auk Saell. It is good to see you again, Saeti." Harry and his bonded turned toward the voice. Harry was already smiling, he recognized that Norse accent. There he stood taller than all of Harry's bonded. He had long red hair that was loose for the most part other than the top half that was in a bun and a few braids hanging down. There was also golden trinkets placed in the braids that made them stand out.

He was wearing animal hide pants tucked into furred boots and a tunic-style shirt with a belt around it. There were pouches and short sword hanging from it. There was also an axe strapped to his back. He looked so good, Harry had to put an effort into not purring in pleasure. Kisten nudged him. Apparently, he had been silent for longer than polite. Logi chuckled.

"Oh, hi, Logi. It certainly is good to see you again. You look great," Harry said with a blush. "What was that greeting? I haven't heard it before."

"It means Hail and Joy. It is just a typical Norse greeting. Are your bonded going to be joining us?" Logi asked. He didn't seem like he minded if they were. Harry shook his head and held out a hand for Logi to help him down from the sunstone. The Viking took it without hesitation and helped him down.

"They were just waiting with me until you arrived. Kisten and Hadrian are going to make themselves busy somewhere nearby. You get me all to yourself," Harry told him happily.

"You will take care of our heart as if it were your own. Should anything happen to him while in your care, it won't be good for you, Norseman," Kisten stated casually with a smile. Hadrian said nothing, he just leaned down and nuzzled Harry before stepping back and letting his Queen have at it. Logi simply placed his dominant hand over his heart and bowed.

"I swear on my honor that I will care for him as if he were already mine. He will come to no harm while in my care," Logi swore. Harry just rolled his eyes at Kisten's posturing. He yanked the Fire Queen down and kissed the mess out of him. Then he turned him and pushed him toward Hadrian.

"Go with your Ace and leave me to the Mage. No need for threats, My Lovely Queen," Harry told him with a laugh. Kisten just laughed as well and draped himself over Hadrian who indulged him. Harry blew them a kiss.

"Be good, Kitten," Hadrian said with a smirk. "Stay out of trouble."

"No promises," Harry said sweetly and moved so that he was standing next to Logi. Hadrian just wrapped an arm around Kisten and the two of them headed off. He smiled up at Logi. "So what's the plan?" Logi just smiled and held his hand out to indicate a picnic blanket that was already laid out waiting for them.

"How about we just sit and enjoy the sun while we talk?" Logi offered.

"That sounds great," Harry agreed with a smile. He let the Mage lead him to the blanket and Logi helped him down before sitting down next to him. "So what do you need to know for you to decide whether or not you want to be mine?" Logi grinned and laughed. It was like a head thrown back belly laugh and Harry loved it. It sounded so joyous.

"I knew I was going to like you," Logi said when he was through laughing. Harry just shot him a cheeky grin.

"Most people do. I have been told I am quite likable," Harry agreed with him. "So tell me a bit about you. Your accent is interesting, I like it. Does that mean you aren't from here? I am from Earth. Britain to be more exact."

"I was born over a millennia ago in Scandinavia. My parents had claimed solitary but wanted their child to be Dragel. So they asked a friend of theirs, a Mage, if he would lend his magic as their third. He of course agreed and so here I am. I was raised in the age of Vikings and adventure. I knew what I was from birth and every few years my parents would bring me to Nevarah to enjoy the Hunt. Ten years here is only about two and half on Earth. I left Earth permanently when Vikings began to die out. Now I travel to different realms I have been hoping to find a Submissive to call my own for a long time now. But I am too, crass or rough around the edges for most," Logi explained to him.

"That sounds like you lived a very interesting life. You probably have so many stories to tell. I bet you have seen so many cool things. And most of my circle, myself included is a bit rough around the edges. And crass?" here Harry laughed. "My Alpha thinks I don't know because he tries to be careful when he is around me, but he has a mouth that would make most people blush. Besides," Harry paused. " I didn't exactly grow up in a loving home. We will leave it at that for now. I have heard and seen things that most people my age never do."

Logi looked at him hard for a moment. Harry knew it was so hard to look at him now and see all of the pain and devastation that he had lived through. He was happy and whole. He didn't look like someone who had been literally starved, beaten, and tortured. He didn't look like someone who had killed his first person at eleven, killed a Basilisk at twelve, and fought a Dragon at fourteen.

"There is much more to your story than that. I would like to hear it one day. I have lived through many many horrible things. I could handle anything you wished to share with me," Logi told him. Harry could feel the sincerity of his words. He reached out and grasped Logi's large hand.

"If you become mine, Logi, I will tell you everything. All of the horrible, devastating, and ugly truths that make up my early life. But until then, why don't we talk of nicer things?" Harry asked him. Logi nodded and shot him a grin.

"Well, then how about I tell you about the time that I had to sail across the ocean to fight a flock of Thunderbirds because someone was convinced they were Dragons?" Logi asked him. Harry laughed and nodded. Then they spent the next hour simply talking or telling stories. By the time the hour was up, Harry was convinced that he wanted the Norse Fire Mage as his own.

"So, do you need more time to decide if you want to be mine?" Harry asked him suddenly. He wasn't really the type to beat around the bush honestly. Logi looked at him as if surprised he had actually asked. Harry just shrugged and looked at him questioningly.

"I..No. No I don't need more time to decide. If you will have me, I promise to do everything in my power to add to your circle and never take from it. I will make you happy, Harry. I will always strive to do so. My magic, my axe, and my loyalty is yours if you want it," Logi stated seriously. Harry smiled and looked at Logi so that he would know he meant what he said.

"Your happiness matters too. If you bond into my circle, Logi, it comes full of love, support, and loyalty. Whether you only bond to me or you decide to bond with others. We are family, all of us and that means no matter what happens you never stand alone again. Our magic, our weapons, and our loyalty is yours. Understand?" Harry stated. Logi nodded.

"Yes, I had given up on ever bonding into a circle. Of finding a Submissive that would be able to at least tolerate me. This is more than I could have ever hoped for," Logi insisted.

"I think I can more than tolerate you, Logi. I know that I want you to join my circle. Have known since I saw your pretty tower of flames during the Reaping. When I got your favor I was happy. I have literally accepted no other favors from Mages. Didn't even look at them. My instincts have yet to steer me wrong and I don't think they are wrong about you. I have chosen," Harry told him. Then he looked Logi in the eye and gave a Heartcry, which was immediately answered by Logi.

Harry smiled and then crawled into Logi's lap. The Fire Mage wrapped his arms around him and Harry felt small, much smaller than he normally did when he was with one of his bonded. It was really nice and warm. They didn't say much else after that. They only sat together and enjoyed the closeness.

"Oh," Harry said suddenly and snuggled closer to Logi. The Fire Mage looked out to see what could have caught Harry's attention. "I guess that explains why I was feeling a bit hesitant toward him recently. The Storm Ace over there cuddled with the pretty Air Submissive. We had been exchanging favors, I thought it was going pretty good. He was with me and mine during the Reaping. But the last few times I have run into him something was off with his scent. I guess it was the smell of another Submissive on him. Well, he looks happy and that is what is most important. I just wish he would have said something."

"His loss if you ask me," Logi stated and pressed a chaste kiss to the top of Harry's head.

"Definitely his loss," Kisten stated from next to them. Harry looked up and smiled at his Fire Queen. Hadrian was just a few steps behind him. "You are smarter it seems. Welcome to Serpent's Requiem. We Flameheads are happy to have you. We are currently outnumbered by the Merrow. But you have enough magic to balance that out even if he doesn't add another. Come on. It's time to head home for dinner. Our Alpha invited the Elswoods to the house for dinner." Kisten reached down a hand and pulled Harry to his feet and then offered the same hand back to the Mage. Logi smiled and accepted it for what it was. Acceptance.

"Thank you," Logi said. Harry linked their hands together.

"Do you have dinner plans? Or somewhere else to be?" Harry asked him. Logi shrugged.

"Zane asked me to dinner..." Logi started but Harry waved him off.

"Cancel. He will survive. I want you to come home and have dinner with us. Meet everybody else. Will you?" Harry asked. Logi grinned and nodded.

"Absolutely," Logi answered. He sent a quick message bubble to Zandian and then headed off with Harry and his bonded.

"Are we going all the way back to the box or straight home?" Harry asked Hadrian. He would be the one who knew.

"Straight home, Kitten. We can port from right there. Are we all ready?" Hadrian asked. Harry stepped up and wrapped his arms around Hadrian, the the Shadow Ace reached out and grasped both Logi and Kisten before porting them home.

Dinner was fun. Harry introduced everyone to Jauren and his circle as well as Logi. They played games and talked for hours. Before the night was through Harry and Logi exchanged claim marks but did not complete their bond. Logi wanted to wait until he had at least presented Harry with his first real courting gift. Harry was fine with that if that was what Logi wanted. So Logi left that night after being keyed into their wards and promised to see Harry soon. Jauren and his circle headed home as well. They wanted to meet back up with Harry tomorrow, whatever he was doing.

Then, once it was only Harry, Draco, and their circles they shared a quiet cup of tea and Harry and Draco talked together about their days. Harry told him about Raiden, Logi, Xander, and Jauren. Draco told Harry about Lewis and the conversations they had together that day. Then, Draco had apparently, spent some time with their parents which was calm and uneventful. They ended up falling asleep together in their nest room. Their bonded left them that way. The day had been really full of ups and downs but ultimately it had been a good day.