Chapter 3
Harry’s POV
Luna slumped in his arms, her eyes rolling to the back of her head. With Aragorn's help they got her on to the couch he had just occupied.
“What’s happening to her?” Thorin demanded.
“I don't know, she’s never done this before” Harry said quietly “Nev, Fred, George?”
“Never seen her do that. could it have been just an intense vision?” Fred asked, stepping forward with George.
“Even as kids, nothing like this” George said as he laid his hand on her forehead “she’s not feverish either”
Neville moved closer as he shook his head “never, I mean we know she see’s things but that… that wasn't her”
Harry found himself agreeing. Her usual soft airy voice was transformed, deeper in tone. The VOICES were many and ranging from male to female. Goosebumps had risen all over his body and the room had taken on an unnatural chill. That was not Luna.
Harry and the others moved aside as Severus started running Diagnostic charms over her, frown deepening.
“what’s wrong with her?” Arthur asked.
Severus remained quiet, casting more and more charms over her, growing paler and paler as he went. Growing even more worried, harry crouched down next to him.
“Dad what’s going on?” he whispered.
“I don't know. But something is either wrong with my diagnostic or she is not who we think she is” Severus sat back and stared at the young woman.
“Sev?” Regulus asked as he placed his hand on his husband’s shoulder.
“She was blood adopted by Xeno. Pandora is her mother but …” He started saying.
“But that is not my mother’s true name” Luna said quietly. Large blue eyes focused over their shoulders.
Harry turned to his friend “What do you mean Luna? And what just happened?”
Luna ignored his question and instead she sat up, a soft smile on her lips. “It’s been an age Legolas, mother informed me when you and your fellowship had passed safely through the woods of Lothlorien and of the destruction of Sauron”
“Who are you to know that?” Legolas demanded as he stepped forward, his eyes narrowing into slits.
“I am Luinhiril, the lost daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn” as she spoke, the rest of the party stood in shock. “Mother brought me here to keep me safe, until the threat of Sauron was over” She answered, smiling at the confused faces around her “I am still Luna, but with or without my chosen family, my time in this realm is over. Daddy knows and his made his peace, he will fade to Lord Mandos Halls”
Harry watched as the already pale man, paled further and swayed, Gimli supporting him. He crumbled to the ground bringing the dwarf with him, tears streaming down his cheeks. Luna stood quickly and walked over to the man, leaning down she placed her hands on his cheeks and rested her forehead against his. Legolas let out a shaky breath as his arms circled her waist, pulling her closer.
“Why do you look different?” harry heard him whisper.
“Part of mother’s protection. It will fade when we go home” she whispered back, kissing his temple. She turned to Gimli and smiled before placing a kiss to his temple to, causing the Dwarf to blush deeply. “Thank you”
“For what my lady?” he asked.
“For your friendship, You and Aragorn have been true friends to him in his time of pain” she said as she helped Legolas to his feet.
“Why would you thank us?” Aragorn asked, causing harry to jump, forgetting the man was standing behind him.
“Here in this realm, it has only been fifteen years since I came, but in ours it’s been far longer. A few years before Thorin and his company started their quest to the lonely mountain, I believe. Being away as long as I have from him, caused him physical pain. The only reason he did not fade is because I am alive, and because of the friendships he formed” she explained.
“Yep… Definitely confused” Draco said as he moved over to Neville's side and wrapped his arms around the taller teen.
“Think we all are Dray” Neville chuckled as he pulled him in closer. “How about we go back downstairs and finish eating before we get caught up in story time?”
“Wonderful Idea Nev. I can explain why Four of you are here, even when history believes you dead” Luna grinned, her usual airy tone back relaxing everyone around her.
“BLACK! WHERE ARE YOU?” Moody’s voice carried up the stairs
“Alistor Thomas Moody, I will ask you again not to yell in my home. you have a wand, use it” They heard Walburga scald the ex-Auror. Kingsley’s rich laugh floating up the stairs as the two argued.
It took a moment for everyone to regain the ability to move, before they exited the dining room and went back to the kitchen.
“How did you go? And where are the rest of you?” Sirius asked as everyone sat.
“As expected, Theres a gift for you waiting in the cellar. Your mother ordered Kreatcher to take her down. thanks” Moody Grumbled as Bowie sat a bowl of soup and a beer in front of him.
“Oliver and Marcus went back to their place, some match they didn't want to miss in the morning” Kingsley said, sinking down to one of the chairs with a groan. “So, you’re all awake? Good. Any more surprises?”
Tonks, Kingsley and moody all jumped when everyone laughed, Looking around in confusion.
“Oh, you have no idea. First, we eat, then as Neville said, story time” Viktor chuckled. He took his seat next to Tonks and grabbed her hand.
“Right…” the Pink haired Auror continued looking confused.
Harry watched as everyone sat quietly. Legolas hadn’t let go of Luna's hand and wouldn’t be for a while by the looks of things. Three of the dwarfs sat, confusion written across their faces. The same look was on Boromir’s face. The usual talk during a meal was gone, making the air uncomfortable and tense.
“Right, what’s happened while we have been gone. Has this lot been cleared of their marks?” Moody barked, causing most of them to jump.
“They have been. And a lot.” Sirius huffed, leaning into Rodolphus side.
“I suppose we should start with my tale” Luna smiled at the ex-Auror.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Tonks asked. Viktor squeezing her hand as she looked around.
“Well, for starters my true name. I am Luinhiril, the daughter of Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn. I was sent here to this realm for my safety fifteen years ago by my mother. She spent Nine years in this realm with me and helped guide me through this new world. Though I have the body of a child I am in fact much older than all of you” She giggled. “Like my mother, I am able to see into the future. One of these visions shown to me was of this world. Of you Harry” She smiled as she reached for his hand. “You, who has lost so much, holds so much pain, only to still be as strong as you are, to love as you do. You have always been special to me.
I showed you to mother and she knew, I would need to come here and help you. We were travelling to the Mirkwood to wish Legolas goodbye when we were surrounded by orcs. I am still unsure as to what my mother did, but we got away with only a few guards. We couldn’t delay any further, so she sent a rider back to my father with a message. I don’t really remember what happened next, just blackness. But when I fully surfaced, I had memories of this world. Of the kind-hearted man who took us in, Loved me as his own, of nine beautiful years with my mother. The friends I had made, with your eldest children Arthur, later with Neville, Harry, Draco and the rest of you. I only came to remember my true self when I turned sixteen here, I remembered her lessons as a child here. And what I had seen of you, harry. Even before I fully remembered, I wanted to help you, your the brother of my heart. This world does not deserve you, or those you call family”
Harry felt as the tears built. Grasping her hand, he squeezed. “Are you really leaving?”
“It’s time for me to go home. What mother said was true. You all have the choice to come with me or stay and fight for those who don't deserve you. You have two months to decide, enough time to get affairs in order. But you must decide. I don't want to leave you, any of you really, but I can’t stay here. I am in more danger now than I was with Sauron” She looked around the table with a soft smile, everyone else smiling back.
“But I remember Pandora in school” Regulus said in a whisper “I was friends with her”
“Most of us were” Severus said. The other adults nodding along.
“Mother never explained how she did it, just that everyone would know her as Pandora. If you choose to come with us, she may tell you” She smiled softly.
“Is there anything else you wish to tell us?” Corvinus asked.
“I believe you know what you need about me. Thorin? Maybe you should start” Luna turned to the dwarf king, who watched her wearily.
“Thank you, Ms Luna. How much of our story do you know?” He asked, he had heard of the lost daughter. But she was an elf, and his trust in elves had been all but destroyed.
“All of it, and you have a right to be weary of elves. Legolas’s father did something terribly wrong that day, he let his fear and anger stand in the way of what was right. But Legolas and I are not him. As you can see, Gimli and he are quite close” she told him sternly.
“Yes, I can see that. Then I shall tell our tale, listen and make of it what you like. It started with a stone. The Arkenstone was the very heart of the mountain, the king’s jewel…” For over an hour Thorin spoke. Fili, Kili adding what they could. The others were completely enthralled in the Dwarfs tale. Quite a few of them shedding tears as Thorin told them of his nephew’s deaths “The last thing I remember before we woke here, was seeing Bilbo. A true and honest friend and the bravest Hobbit I will ever know”
“Wow… Dragons can talk in your world? Are they all like Smaug or are there nice ones?” Charlie asked, a manic Gleam in his eyes.
“Seriously. He just told us a heartbreaking tale and you ask about the dragons?” Bowie huffed.
“I’m sorry, but what did you expect. I literally work with dragons. Yes, their story was heartbreaking but… Dragons” Charlie chuckled, earning a tap to the back of his head from Arthur.
“I apologise for my son, you mention dragons and his rational thinking goes out the window” Arthur shook his head, he loved his son, but he really did have a one-track mind.
“You work with Dragons? How are you still alive?” Kili asked in awe.
“I’ll show you my scars later” The red head grinned proudly, causing bowie to roll her eyes and the others to laugh.
“The dragons here are different. They have not been corrupted by greed or darkness. Here dragons are respected, well by those who are smart. Much like the goblins here, distant cousins and still warriors but very different to the ones of our realm. Much like the elves” Luna explained.
“Wait, there’s elves here to? Like you and Legolas?” Fili chimed in.
“Those who were like us, have left to the undying lands. There may be some who decided to stay but they are not here in this country. The ones that remain are different, small in size but powerful” She smiled at the young dwarfs.
“So… if you three died… how are you here?” Harry asked, everyone else agreeing.
“I do not know little one. I wonder at that myself” Thorin shook his head and picked up his beer, taking a long pull. “Though I am grateful for it. If not for myself but my sisters-sons, they are barely into their majority”
“Wait, how old are you?” Harry asked the brothers, causing Sirius to groan ‘its rude to ask pup’
“82, Little one” Fili straightened up, grinning.
“And I’m 77” Kili added.
“… no way”
“You both look”
“20-25”
“At the very least” Fred and George looked just as shocked as the rest of the group.
“Well, that’s insulting. I would still be under the mountain’s protection” Kili bristled. He may be the youngest, barely any beard, but he wasn’t that young.
“You will find that here it is a compliment. I myself am only 68. My eldest son is 42 while my youngest is 38. the age of majority here is 17” Corvinus smirked as Rodolphus and Rabastan waved.
“How old are you all if you don’t mind us asking” Kingsley asked as he leaned forward in his chair.
“I am 195, at least I was when I passed” Thorin took another pull of his beer “Dwarves have long lives, not as long as elves but longer than man”
“139 laddie” Gimli raised his glass.
“41” Boromir said quietly.
“I am 87, though I am Dúnedain. I will have a longer life but not the full span like Legolas and Luna” Aragorn told the group.
“Just how old are you Luna dear?” Narcissa asked.
“Here, I am 16. But, I am really 2928”
Harry should not have taken a mouthful of his water because he ended up wearing it. “W…What?”
Luna laughed as she thumped him on the back to clear his airways. “Yes, astonishing right?”
“So, Legolas is the same age?” Percy asked.
“I am 2931, we are a long-lived race” Legolas answered as Luna snuggled into his side, he smiled gently before kissing the crown of her head.
“We still need to hear the rest of the tale. Aragorn? Would you like to finish? It is getting rather late.” Luna asked.
Harry watched as the man tensed, and discreetly placed his hand on his knee. He gave it a gentle squeeze and watched as the man relaxed under his touch.
Aragorn’s POV
Aragorn’s heart sped up as Harry placed his hand on him. He found himself relaxing under the gentle touch. He turned slightly and with a nod, started on their tale. Like with Thorin, everyone stayed quiet. Aragorn, Gimli, Legolas and Boromir told the others of their quest, the battles, what had brought the destruction of the Dark Lord Sauron and bravest of them all, the Hobbits.
“At least I know now my brother lives, and the little ones” Boromir sighed.
Aragorn turned to his friend, “Your brother fought Bravely, as did Merry and Pippin. You taught them well. They will be happy to see you alive and well”
“I hope so. At least the venom my father spewed did not turn him away from our people” Boromir smiled “And Pippin, part of the guard. I wish I could have seen that”
“Lord Mandos and the Lady Vaire have granted you a second chance, you will see them again” Legolas told the man gently.
“Lord Mandos was displeased with your deaths, but he was stopped from returning your souls to life by fate. Her tapestry was already written, your time had not ended merely paused. If you had lived during that time, you would have faded, your lines would have died out, never to find your One’s. Your Soulmates. Any good you could have done would have withered away” Luna looked each of the dwarfs and Boromir in the eye as she spoke to them. “Now you will return, and you will live the life fate wanted you to live”
“And who exactly is Lord Mandos?” Lucius asked.
“He is the Lord of Death. The souls he reaps then move on to his halls, where they await judgement” Legolas told the man.
“So, the same as here then?” Rabastan had been quiet, watching the newcomers like a hawk. He didn’t like how this Aragorn was sitting so close to harry.
“Yes, they are the same deity” Luna yawned, bringing everyone back to just what time it was.
“Right then” Sirius stood before taking in the room “its late, we all need sleep. I think our move to Noir manor will be brought forward to tomorrow, there just isn’t room here for everyone. Harry, do you mind sharing with Neville or Draco? The other can bunk with the twins”
“that’s fine. but what about everyone else?” Harry asked.
“I’ll go with the devil twins, drays not used to them and his comfortable with harry” Neville said happily.
“Right, that works… we hadn’t expected so many of you, so the majority of the rooms haven’t been cleaned”
“I’m sure the others and myself will be fine where we woke. Trust me, we have slept on worse” Thorin told the flustered man. The rest nodding along.
“Ok, but that still leaves everyone else. Its going to be a tight fit and no pup, you will not be sharing with dragon boy until after the bonding” Sirius looked over at a pouting Bowie. Rodolphus chuckling under his breath. “Luna, I know your older than all of us, but I am still responsible for you while you’re still in this realm and under my roof. So, you will be sharing with Tonks and bowie”
“Oi I’m 22, an adult here” Tonks protested, hair flashing between her usual pink to a flaming red. Fili and Kili leaning across the table watching in fascination.
“Yes, and unmarried. Bill and Remus do not share a room, neither will you and Viktor. Really don’t want Andi on my back about allowing sleepovers between the two of you” Sirius pointed out.
“What about you and rod? Are you sharing?” Tonks argued.
“Rod and I share a daughter. Different situation” he waved her off, Aragorn watched as Rodolphus tried to keep from laughing at the two.
“No, it’s not, you had a child out of wedlock… that’s worse” She tried again.
“She’s got us there, Love” Rodolphus couldn’t hold it in, his laugh filling the room.
“Not helping” Sirius growled.
“Yes, yes, I’m a bastard child. But she raises a good point. Dad, didn’t you have me when you were barely 21 and father only 23?” Bowie smirked at the spluttering man.
“Not the point, I’m your dad. Do you think I want you being pregnant right now? Make no mistake, I do not regret having you. And had circumstances been different, we would have been married” the room had gone silent. Aragorn knew they were missing something here. Rodolphus's father tensed up and looked guilty. Rabastan placed his hand on the man’s shoulder and squeezed.
“Alright that’s enough. it’s almost 3am. I assume we want an early start in the morning getting everything ready for the move. Sirius, you and rod in your room, Sev and Reggie in theirs, Bill with Viktor and Percy with Charlie. Corvinus will share with Rabastan, Kingsley with me and Moody with Remus. Narcissa will obviously share with Lucius. Luna, Bowie and Tonks you three will be sharing, no arguments. Neville with Fred and George and Harry with Draco. Thorin told you their fine with the receiving room. Now that’s all sorted, let’s get a move on” Arthur stood as he spoke.
Aragorn felt like his head was spinning. The easy acceptance of these people was surprising to him, even after telling them what they had been through. They all just listened and took everything in. No Judgement. Just concern.
“You heard the man. I’ll show you where the bathroom is” Sirius said as he stood, Rodolphus standing with him.
“Goodnight Aragorn, sleep well” Harry gave his knee a light squeeze before he stood.
“Sleep well, Little one” he whispered, watching as harry made his way out of the room, throwing one last glance over his shoulder.
“Alright you lot, follow me please” Sirius said.
They made their way back down towards the room they had woken up in, before they reached the doorway Sirius turned left and opened a door.
“This is the bathroom. Just a toilet and basin but I’ll show you to the showers once everyone wakes up in the morning. If there’s anything you need, just call for Kreatcher” Sirius grinned at the men around him.
“What Kreatcher?” Boromir asked.
“Right… forgot to introduce you. KREATCHER”
The group jumped when a loud pop sounded throughout the hall. Aragorn’s eyes widened in shock as a small, wrinkly …. Thing appeared in front of them wearing what looked like a rag. It bowed low, its large, pointed nose brushing the rug it stood on.
“Nasty Master mutt called for poor old Kreatcher?” Large ears flicking in annoyance.
“Yes Kreatcher, if any one of these gentlemen call for you, you are to make yourself available to them. Is that understood?” Sirius said firmly.
“Of course, Kreatcher lives to serve the house of Black” he glared at the Lord and popped away.
“What was that? And why did it call you a Mutt?” Legolas asked, eyes wide.
“That was a house elf. His never liked me” Sirius shrugged. Rodolphus chuckling beside him.
“That was an elf? But… it was so small and dirty” Gimli looked confused, he looked up at Legolas and back to the spot Kreatcher had disappeared from.
“Remember what Ms Luna told us. I’m assuming that is what she meant by the elves here?” Thorin asked.
“Yep, He was alone for a long time, so it messed with his head. You see, house elves need wizarding families to survive. Without us, their magic turns in on itself. For such little beings, they hold a lot of wild magic, so they use the family's they serve as an anchor. Keeping their magic calm, in exchange they look after the wizards home and family. Some elves can find anchors in other places, such as magical buildings, because of the amount of sentient magic that travels through it. But because this place was empty for so long, he became bitter, resentful and slightly twisted. More so than he was before. Ask Harry to introduce you to his house elf Dobby, completely insane but sweet and caring in his own way. He was once a free elf, something house elves find highly offensive, as its detrimental to their health. His bound to harry now but the effects of that freedom will always be with him.”
“Why would freedom have a negative effect?” Kili asked. “One would think they would relish it”
“As Sirius said, without a bond their magic turns on them. It can kill them if they are left unbound. Some Wizards forget that the only reason house elves need us is to keep them sane and protected. They can very easily wipe out a bloodline with a snap of their fingers. Some Wixxen think of them as nothing but slaves, but those of us that remember and respect them will find very loyal and protective members of the family. They will sacrifice themselves for those they care for, Much like we would. I lost my elf, Nipsy, when I was young. She died protecting my mother and sisters. We lost them the same night” Rodolphus said quietly.
“We can discuss this tomorrow if you like. I'll have some clothes ready for you as well, can’t have you walking around looking the way you do. To many questions will be asked, and I think we should visit Gringotts. See what the Goblins can tell us” Sirius added, taking Rodolphus’s hand he pressed a kiss on his palm before lacing their fingers together.
“Of course, thank you” Thorin bowed his head “We will see you in the morning”
“Until then” Rodolphus gave the dwarf a once over before nodding.
Aragorn and the others made their way back to their quarters. He was lost in thought when he felt a gentle hand grip his shoulder. He turned slightly to see the concern in Legolas’s eyes.
“I’m fine Legolas”
Legolas raised a brow, a smirk on his lips. “I would hope so, but that is not why I am concerned my friend”
“Lads” Gimli huffed “Not all of us understand you”
“Maybe, that was the point” Legolas teased as he shoved the annoyed Dwarf.
“it’s alright Legolas. My apologises” Aragorn said softly. “We should rest”
“Oh no, laddie. You won’t be getting rest until you tell me what’s going on with you” Gimli said firmly, burly arms crossing in front of his broad chest. “Well?”
Aragorn sat and groaned. Looking up he found six curious pairs of eyes staring at him. “I understand those three being curious” he said as he pointed to Boromir, Legolas and Gimli “But you three?”
“Dwarfs are naturally curious beings” Kili said innocently
“Oh yes, very curious” Fili agreed.
“Boys” Thorin said firmly, trying to suppress a grin.
Aragorn sat and thought for a moment. “It’s been a strange night and I don't know what will happen come the morning. I don’t really understand what is happening. Something Luna said earlier but I want to think on it a bit more before I make any decisions on the matter. So just bare with me for a little bit”
“And what of Harry? You seemed to stick rather close to him?” Boromir asked softly as he sat on his bed.
“I don't know. It just feels… Right” he said quietly. “Come on. I have a feeling we will be up early, we should try and get some rest”
he watched as everyone made themselves comfortable and waited for them to fall asleep. He knew he wasn't going to get much rest. After an hour or so, he got up and wandered over to their packs. As quietly as he could, he found his pipe and pouch and decided to find somewhere he can sit and think in peace.
Walking down the hall, he stopped when he realised, he didn't know where to go.
“Are you lost dear?”
Spinning on his heel, Aragorn let out a relived sigh. It was just the Portrait from earlier, he noticed that though she and her sons all shared the same button nose and grey eyes, her hair was a deep Auban with white framing her face. “I’m sorry if I disturbed you madam. I'm just trying to find somewhere to think”
A deep full bellied laugh sounded from beside the woman as an older gentleman stepped in beside her. Now he looked like an older version of Sirius and Regulus, his black waves with a dusting of silver fell below his shoulders, grey eyes seemed to look straight through him. “You aren't disturbing us, son. Hello, I don't think we have been introduced. I’m Orion and this is my wife, Walburga. If you continue down the hall, you will find the backdoor. Just go through and you will find a sitting area. It should be comfortable enough for you”
“Thank you, sir, madam. Ah…Rest well?” Aragorn gave the two a quick nod, as they chuckled and made his way to the door. Stepping out he found himself in a room made of glass. All manner of plants filled the space. He found roses that were almost black in colour, others so red that it looked like they had been dipped in blood, other flowers that looked like tiny bells and vines of some sort, climbing the glass walls. Flowers of the palest blue wove themselves in between the vines, reaching toward the crescent moon above. He raised his hand to touch the petals when a voice sounded behind him.
“I wouldn't touch that. It’s called a moonflower or moon vine. Typically, their white, but this is a magical breed. The pale blue is only found in the wizarding world and its highly toxic”
Aragorn looked over his shoulder to find Rodolphus in the doorway. He lowered his hand and thanked the man. He turned and sat in one of the chairs, preparing his pipe.
They both sat in the quiet for a time. Aragorn watched as the vines and flowers moved closer and closer to the moon above. It was oddly calming watching them.
“You have questions that you want answers to, am I correct?” Rodolphus asked quietly.
“I do” he said as he fiddled with his pipe.
“Well, I can’t promise I'll know the answers to them all, but I won’t take offence to anything” he chuckled softly.
“Well, a few of the others have mentioned a Dark Lord a few times. What exactly is the situation here?” He asked.
“Ah that. Currently, the wizarding world is under threat, on two fronts. First by a man by the name of Tom Riddle, or as he calls himself, Lord Voldemort or the Dark Lord. He claims that because we are wizards, we are superior to everyone else. He believes that anyone less then Pure-blooded are vermin to be eradicated. That doesn't just mean Muggles, the nonmagical folk. It includes half-blood, Muggleborn’s, squibs and creature-beings of all kinds. He is ruthless, unfeeling and insane.
The second, is Albus Dumbledore self-proclaimed Lord of the Light. Just as ruthless, just as unfeeling and questionably sane. He comes across as a kind, gentle grandfather, but his not. He is the one who started the rift between the dark and the light. You will need to talk to my father for a better understanding. After Azkaban, my mind is still fuzzy”
“What’s Azkaban?” he asked.
“Azkaban is the wizarding prison. I spent a long time in there for a crime I didn't commit. Sirius and Rabastan as well. Luckily Sirius escaped three years ago before he was found to be innocent”
“If you don’t mind my asking, what were you accused of?”
“We were accused of torturing young Neville’s parents into insanity. Yes, we were there. But not to torture, we arrived just before the Aurors, I guess they would be guards where you’re from” he said seeing Aragorn’s look of confusion “When we arrived, we found Bellatrix, Sirius’s cousin, and another torturing Alice and Frank. We had just managed to make sure Neville was alright before we went to stop them, but Aurors stormed the place, arresting us on the spot. During our trial, my brother and I were not questioned, but still found guilty. Our father fought to get us a retrial, but Dumbledore stopped him at every turn. So, we spent 14 years in prison until Voldy broke us out about a year ago”
“I’m sorry you had to go through all of that. But why remain spies?”
“Well, by the time we were broken out, Severus and Reg had been discovered as traitors. We needed as much information as we could get, so bas, Lucius and I stayed. My father was one of his original followers, back when it was still political and actually trying to make our world better. He was never marked like we were though”
“Why did you join him in the first place?” that was something he couldn’t wrap his head around.
“To Keep Sirius and Bowie safe” Rodolphus turned and looked at him.
“Why? Were they in danger?” he asked.
“Not many people know that Bowie is my daughter. Only those who Sirius and I trust wholeheartedly. With the exception of one other. My wife. She used them as a way to get what she wanted, my joining the death eaters. She threatened their lives, and I did what I thought was the only way to protect them, I joined. It’s the only thing she’s done right, keeping it a secret”
“You have a wife? Wait… how is bowie both yours and Sirius’s daughter?” he asked. “This conversation is all over the place, I apologize”
“No, no, It’s fine. it’s a lot to take in, so I understand. To answer how I’m her father as well, well some wizards have Carrier abilities, which means they can fall pregnant. Sirius is one of them. Wizards used to outnumber witches here, so to make up for it, Mother Magic made it possible for some wizards to carry children. It’s also why there a so many same sex couples in the wizarding world. There was a time in our history where we were hunted. Not just by other wizards and witches but by muggles, they feared us. A lot of us were burnt at the stake, drowned or hung. So, to make up our numbers again mother magic made it possible for wizards to bare children. Over the years the female population grew and evened out, but the ability remained” Rodolphus explained.
“Even amongst the witches?” he asked.
“Yes. With the help of certain potions, woman can sire children as well now”
“And your wife?”
Rodolphus sighed and sat forward, his forearms resting along his thighs. “You need to understand, I have loved that man since I was Fourteen. We courted for a time and were on our way to marriage. On his 16th birthday our family's met to discuss the terms of the contract we would be entering” he said softly, eyes turned to the night sky “Arcturus and my grandfather, Caesar, had already signed a contract. But it wasn't for Sirius and I. It was for Sirius’s cousin Bellatrix”
“Why would they do that?” Aragorn asked.
“She went to her grandfather and spun a story of how we were in love, how I was trying to find a way out of my relationship with Sirius and marry her. None of it was true, but Arcturus adored her and cared little for Sirius. So, he and my grandfather, as Lords of our family's, created a marriage contract. I trusted my grandfather, so when he handed me the contract, I didn’t read it, I just assumed it was for Sirius and signed it, but when Sirius went to sign it, Arcturus stopped him and said Bellatrix had already signed. There was no way out of it, In the wizarding world a contract is magically binding so to go against it would cause us to either lose our magic or die” He could hear the anger in the man’s words.
“Did no one fight for you?”
“Our families did, and when he realised what he had done, so did my grandfather. He tried everything to get me out of the contract but as I said, there was nothing he could do. Arcturus had made it impossible to break. To add insult to injury, they arranged it so the ceremony was held on Sirius’s 17th birthday. He was forced to watch as I married her. Although Arcturus did forget to add anything stating the marriage had to be consummated or a fidelity clause. So, we continued the relationship... Arcturus died only a few days after, it was an unfortunate accident” Rodolphus grinned.
“And Sirius fell pregnant after this?”
“Our baby girl was born just after my 21st birthday. For 16 hours I was in excruciating pain before Celena Athena Bowie Black was born on the 8th of November 1976 at 2:25am, weighing 7 pounds 8 ounces, a full head of black curls and the signature Black family Grey eyes. Celena for Rods Mother and Athena is for my mother, Her middle name to. Bowie because of a muggle singer I love, and she prefers it. Harry’s mum and Nani helped my cousin Andy and my mother deliver her in this very house. She was perfection personified, even scowling, screaming her tiny lungs out and covered in gunk. But perfection all the same” Sirius said from the doorway, causing both men to jump. Chuckling he made his way over and kissed Rodolphus “Sorry, didn't mean to scare you. I got worried when you weren't in bed”
“Sorry love couldn't sleep. Just keeping Aragorn company” Rodolphus kissed the man back and held out his hand.
“It’s alright” He said as he took it, taking a seat beside him. “Kreatcher”
With a pop, the house elf appeared. Aragorn wasn't sure he would ever get used to it.
“Nasty Master mutt calls?”
“yes, please bring us a tea service. Something calming” Sirius asked the scowling elf “and a hot chocolate, harry will be down shortly”
With a scowl and a nod, he popped away.
“Nightmare?” Rodolphus asked, concern leaking into his voice.
“Yep, a bad one to by the looks of it” he sighed as he let go of the mans hand.
“Is he ok?” Aragorn asked. He watched as the two men seemed to have a silent conversation before Sirius sighed again.
“Harry has had a difficult life, to put it very, very lightly. I won’t go into details but his been hurt time and time again by those who were supposed to take care of him. Unfortunately, it left its mark” Sirius said sadly.
Aragorn watched as the emotions played across both of the men’s faces. It was then that harry made his appearance. His hair was a mess, more so than earlier. His beautiful green eyes again red and puffy, tear tracks evident on his cheeks. Aragorn watched as Rodolphus opened his arms and Harry stumbled over, perching himself on the man’s lap. Curling up he rested his head just under the older man’s chin and sighed, eyes closed.
“Alright pup?” Rodolphus asked quietly. Harry just shrugged, before burrowing deeper into the man’s chest. Rodolphus’s arms circling around him.
Kreatcher popped back in and placed a tray on the table between them. He took one look at harry and clicked his fingers, a vial appearing in his other hand. He passed it over to Sirius with a scowl. “Little master needs to take this. Healer man told master Snapey he needs them when like this”
“Thank you Kreatcher. The others will be up in a couple of hours. Please have breakfast ready, nothing to heavy please. That will be all” Sirius told the elf. Kreatcher popped away with a scowl.
“He really doesn't like you, does he?” Aragorn asked, Harry quickly opened his eyes. Clearly, he didn't realise anyone else was there. Aragorn gave him a smile and passed his drink over, having watched as Sirius handed him the vial and his grimace as he swallowed. Harry gave him a small smile and a nod in thanks as he took the mug. Hands wrapped around the mug like a lifeline.
“He really doesn't. His Reggie's elf. Unfortunately, I lost my elf, Nanna, a year after Bowie was born. She adored her little Missy” he chuckled “She was a curious little thing but took great care of her charges. She had been in our family for around 200 years and lived a good life”
“Did you know Dobby is Nanna’s cousin?” Harry whispered, the tension in his shoulders relaxing.
“Really? Well, that kind of explains a few things” Sirius chuckled “feeling better?” he asked as he rubbed circles between the teen’s shoulders.
“A little. What are you two doing up so early anyway?” He asked Rodolphus and Aragorn.
“Couldn't sleep” they both said. Harry giggled and made himself more comfortable, making the larger man chuckle and kiss the top of his head.
“Is there anything else you wish to know?” Rodolphus asked.
“A lot more but I'll think them over first. So, what are the plans for the day?” He asked, picking up his cup and smelling the contents before taking a sip. Lavender and chamomile hitting his tongue, it was a bit bitter, so he added some honey.
“Well, we will be moving to the manor today. Just moved the moving date forward a day or two. Its huge and with the amount of people here now, plus the guests coming at the end of the week for the celebrations, there's plenty of room” Sirius said.
“Celebrations?” Aragorn looked over when he heard a groan, harry shaking his head.
“Harry’s 17th and Bowie’s wedding the day after. You get to see how the Wixxen celebrate” He winked, and Harry groaned again “It’s your 17th birthday. We will celebrate it properly, it’s your coming of age after all”
“It’s the big one for Wixxen. It’s when our family magics settle, giving us a boost so to speak. It’s a rite of passage that needs to be celebrated. And as we promised, you don’t have to celebrate any other birthday if you don't want to” Rodolphus chuckled.
“Fine. But you might want to reel in the twins. Their planning something, and when they get planning you know what happens” Harry sighed.
The talked for a while and before they knew it, the sun was rising, and noise was coming from the kitchen. The four decided to head back in and wait for the others to come down. They all looked Bone weary and likely to fall asleep on their feet.
Sirius took him upstairs and showed him to the shower. He was confused as to how to use it and had to have Sirius show him. He also explained what everything was and how to use it. So, after his shower, he dried himself off and got dressed in the clothes Sirius left out for him. According to the man the pants were called Jeans and the short tunic a t-shirt. The jeans were a dark blue with rips in the knees and the t-shirt was black and tight. There was a name on the shirt to, Queen. They were quite comfortable if he was being honest.
He made his way back down the stairs, greeting Orion and Walburga as he passed, and back to the kitchen. Almost everyone was there, including his company and the three Dwarfs. All looked freshly showered and in clothes more closely resembling everyone else. looking around, he found Harry. The young man looked stunning. He had his hair pulled back in a bun, loose pieces framing his face. He hadn’t noticed the slim, muscled body the night before. but he noticed it now as he was leaning against the countertop, his simple white t-shirt fitting him snuggly, and his legs wrapped in loose trousers. Harry was just tall enough to fit under his chin, almost perfectly.
Harry’s POV
‘Nope. No one has the right to look that damn good in a pair of jeans’ He thought to himself. He knew he was staring but he really didn’t care. Aragorn was something else entirely. No man had the right to be this attractive. His long hair, still wet from his shower clung to his neck, the Black t-shirt was like a second skin, allowing him to see the tight muscles that lay underneath. He was clearly wearing Sirius’s clothes, but he filled them out so much better. Harry took a sip of his coffee and looked around the room. He needed to stop staring.
The twins were whispering to each other, occasionally throwing him a smirk. Whatever they were up to, couldn’t be good. Luna was, yet again, leaning into Legolas’s side as they talked to Rabastan and Boromir. Thorin and Gimli were having a very animated discussion with Arthur, Corvinus, Remus and Bill. Over what, he didn’t know. Kingsley, Moody and Tonks had left early to finish the paperwork from last night. He knew Sirius and Rod were downstairs with Sev, reg and Lucius dealing with Bellatrix. Sirius looked far to happy about that. Charlie was showing off his scars to Fili and Kili, Bowie rolling her eyes whenever he puffed out his chest while Viktor tried to hold back his laughter. Neville and Draco were upstairs with Narcissa, getting everyone’s things organized and ready to go. Narcissa didn’t trust anyone to remember everything so had taken it upon herself to organise it all. As she said ‘We have two important days coming up. We need to make sure we have everything, we don’t want to stress the bride’ to which bowie rolled her eyes and walked away.
“Good morning” Aragorn slid up beside him.
“Morning, how was your shower?”
“Strange, but nice. Where are the others?”
“Oh… um their downstairs dealing with an issue” how do you tell someone that their holding someone prisoner with every intention in killing them? He guessed it was probably better not to. “Tea?”
“Yes please. How are you… after this morning?” He asked. Harry looked at him for a moment. There was no pity, which he was thankful for, just concern.
“Better, thanks. Ahh… I sometimes get nightmares but there not too bad. Last night was just a bad night” he was lying, and by the looks of it, Aragorn knew he was. He was saved from talking more about it when Sev walked in. looking like his usual dour self. “Tea, dad?”
“Coffee” He grunted. He took a seat at the table and picked up the paper. “Well, Dumbledore certainly didn’t waste any time. His told the public about what happened last night and about the prophecy. Yet again, commanding you to do your duty and save the wizarding world” he growled, throwing the paper across the table.
It was his duty, his responsibility. But at the same time, why? Because some drunk witch ‘predicted’ it? he was only 16, one week out from turning 17. He spent years with the Dursleys unaware of what and who he was. He was mistreated, abused mentally and physically. Being told he was nothing, a freak, someone not worth a thing. All he wanted was to be accepted and he thought he got that. He had loved Hogwarts, But still. Every year. Every fucking year, something happened to him. He was supposed to be safe there but time and time again he was hurt one way or another. It didn’t matter if his dad and the others were there with him. He still got hurt. He got others hurt or killed. Why did they stay with him, he wasn’t worth it. he wasn’t worth their love or care.
“...rry. Harry, take a deep breath. Follow what I’m doing. Do the exercise The healer taught you.” He was sitting on the ground, when did he sit down? Sev, leaning down in front of him, his hand on his chest. He tried his breathing exercise, but he was struggling. He closed his eyes and counted back from ten. Instead of helping his breathing became shallower, quicker. The panic building, he could feel his air ways closing.
Arms wrapped around him, and his breathing started slowing down, the panic was disappearing. He started breathing evenly and opened his eyes.
“Here” Sev filled a glass and handed it over. “Drink slowly. Small sips, I’ll be right back so stay seated. Keep an eye on his breathing” dark eyes glared over his shoulder.
He startled when Aragorn agreed. He turned his head, the man was right behind him. Both of them on the ground, merlin he was practically sitting in the man’s lap, His legs were on either side of him, his arms wrapped around him. He could feel his face heat up, yep definitely blushing. Really didn’t help that everyone was staring, yes, they may be concerned, but they were still staring.
“Are you alright?” Aragorn asked him quietly. All he could do was look down and nod. “Do you want me to let go?” he wanted to scream out no, It was nice, he felt safe. So, he shook his head. “Alright”
“sorry”
“Don’t apologize for something you can’t control Harry, we don’t judge you” Luna’s voice floated over him. She picked up his hand and gently rubbed along his knuckles.
Severus came back followed by the others. He swept over and lent down in front of him, scowling over Harry’s shoulder. He felt Aragorn tense up, so he lent back. His back against the man’s chest. “Dad, he didn’t do anything, lose the glare”
Severus huffed and started pulling out the different potions Harry was on. He quickly found what he was looking for and handed him a neon green vial. He grimaced but drank it back quickly. He hated the taste, like old socks, onions and anchovies. Luna handed him a glass of water, which he swallowed quickly.
“Feeling better?” Reg asked. Critical eyes roaming his face.
“Much better… can I stand up now?” he asked, the rooms occupants chuckling. Severus held out his hand and helped him stand up, he then turned and helped Aragorn to his feet. “So… when do we leave”
Sirius barked out a laugh. “In about an hour. We want to ask Neville if he wants to witness the … ah… yeah” he added nervously.
“Want me to witness what?” Neville asked entering the room, Draco and Narcissa right behind him. After a few nervous glances, Neville huffed, crossed his arms and raised his brow at them. “Well?”
Harry watched as the adult’s exchanged looks. None of them were used to Neville being this way. They were used to the shy, meek somewhat awkward teen. Over the last two years he had lost the baby fat, slimmed down and gained muscle. His confidence had sored once regulus had talked to Augusta about his wand after his first Defence class. As much as Neville loved his father’s wand, it wasn’t his. It was holding him back, so she took him to celestial way in Italy. His new wand, Cyprus wood with a unicorn horn slither and demiguise hair, suited him more than the cherry wood his father favoured.
“Bellatrix is in the cellar. As Heir to your house, you have the right to witness her death in answer to the crimes against your house. You can then present your memories to your grandmother, if you wish” Corvinus answered. “If you do not wish to witness, you can nominate someone else for it”
He watched as Neville’s brows creased, Draco squeezing his hand in support. “Cissa, will this put a strain on our relationship?” he asked.
Narcissa smiled and cupped his cheeks. “Not at all. I love my sister dearly, but she is not the same person she once was”
Neville took one deep breath “Then I will stand as witness”