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Chapter Text

A seven-year-old Harry d’Bineshi whimpered in the darkness of his bedroom. His empathy was running high tonight and so he had been trying to meditate. However, when he had come close to managing his own emotions something filled with terror and pain had passed through his room. It had paused for a moment considering him, but when it realised Harry could sense its presence the being moved on. The fact that it had gone had not taken away the feeling Harry had absorbed. Now his tenuous grip on his control fractured and fell away.

Harry balled his hands into his hair as he rocked back and forth on his bed. Every shadow around him seemed to be reaching out to touch him with a new wave of emotion. Harry whined softly as his bedroom door clicked open. The overhead light did not turn on but the person navigated his room easily.

The lamp on his bedside table clicked on and Harry looked up to see which parent had come to check on him. Harry blinked in surprise. He had not at all anticipated Gabriel would come to him. Gabriel was their ACE, the top fighter in his family and he was a general of the Fae army.

Gabriel picked Harry up and sat down against his head board. Harry tucked his head under Gabriel’s chin and hummed in surprise. Normally when he was in an empathic swirl, he would have to process not only the outward whirlwind of emotions but the worry of the parent comforting him. It was not that Gabriel was unfeeling, Harry could still sense his concern but unlike his other parents Gabriel seemed more able to shield and block his emotions.

Gabriel ran his fingers through Harry’s bedraggled hair and hummed a soft tune to give him something to focus on. Harry latched onto Gabriel’s heartbeat and the slow easy pace of the tune and slowly the whirlwind around him eased.

“Better, Harry?”

“Yes,” Harry smiled nuzzling Gabriel’s neck. “I don’t know what caused it. It was as if something came through my room.”

“Really? Where did it go then?”

“I sensed it near my closet, where it paused as if it was catching its breath or something. Then when it seemed to realise, I could feel it, it dived under my bed.”

“It did, did it? Well, we can’t have that.” Gabriel shifted Harry back onto the bed and got out. He crouched beside the bed and yanked the skirt up from the corner of the bed. Gabriel let out a startled gasp and Harry whimpered.

“What is it?” he asked as he looked over the edge of the bed cautiously.

Gabriel smirked, “Enough dust bunnies to make Lily cry in horror.”

Harry growled and jumped at Gabriel. He was easily caught as Gabriel rolled back onto the floor. He countered him by tickling Harry’s sides mercilessly.

“Ah, no, let me go!” Harry laughed helplessly.

Gabriel eased up on the tickles and smiled as Harry caught his breath, “You started this fight, Little Death.”

“I could call her, you know,” Harry pouted.

“You could. But I am sure Lady Death would not appreciate you calling her simply because you lost a battle you started with your parent.”

Before Harry could retort an annoyed female voice cut through the quiet room. “Gabriel! He is supposed to be sleeping.”

Gabriel and Harry looked up at Lily who was standing in the doorway with her hand upon her hip. Behind her Adam was laughing as he made his way down the hall to finish checking on their other children.

“Oops,” Harry groaned.

Gabriel shook his head as he pulled himself up with the bedside table without letting go of Harry. “Harry was having a spiral, so I was distracting him a bit. He is fine now, Lily.”

Despite Gabriel’s assurances Lily came into the bedroom and cuddled him in a way, only his bearer could. Gabriel kissed his temple and moved out of the room, leaving her to settle him back into bed for the night. By the time Lily was done, Harry only vaguely remembered the late-night visitor.

-----

That was the first visit but it was not the last. The Being seemed to realise that even though Harry could sense his presence, his bedroom was a safe stopover point. After the first few times, Harry had become used to the pain and fear they brought.

Two years later at age nine, Harry finally decided to confront the being. He stayed up overnight three weekends in a row before he finally had his quarry. The Being felt less like pain this time but the fear was as real as always. 

Harry looked directly at the source of the emotions even though he could see no form in the shadows of his room. “If you are going to continue to come hide out in my room, the least you can do is show me your face or give me your name.”

Nothing showed itself but after a few seconds a soft voice asked. “Why do you care?”

“You are hurt. You are always hurt and I want to help.”

The voice broke in the quiet space, “It won’t matter. If they see that the wounds they gave me are treated, they will just pin me down and make more.”

Harry thought he could possibly make out the slight outline of a shadow. The form was older than him for certain. An adult but a young one certainly not as old as most of his parents. “Why would they do that?”

“Because I am not like them. I am not like them and I am not pure Fae.”

“Is that why you come here?”

The shadow seemed perplexed, “What do you mean?”

“This is a mixed house. Some of my parents are Fae, some are Dragel, and some are half-breeds.”

The shadowed form shifted, “Wait, what is your family name.”

Harry wasn’t ashamed of his family but he had asked first and the shadow had not answered him so he wasn’t going to give it up that easily. “Pretty demanding for a shadow that will not tell me his own name.” They both fell silent and it was only the still present emotions that told Harry his guest had not yet moved on.

“Maybe some other time I will tell you,” the shadow being said softly.

Harry suddenly shifted back on his bed as the being crossed his room. An invisible hand brushed his wrist and bright silvery magic leapt from the point of contact. Harry was confused by it but the shadow hissed.

“I had hoped but no…”

“What did that mean?”

“Nothing, not now at least. It may mean something when you are older.”        

Harry growled, “Why do you get to decide that it means nothing!”

“It cannot mean anything now, because I cannot protect you as I am. It cannot mean anything until I am able to stand by your side unafraid.”

Harry whined as invisible lips pressed to his temple. He didn’t want that! He wanted to be held and to hold his shadow in return. Harry heard his shadow make a soothing sound his Sire often made when his Mera or his Bearer were upset. Dragel then, a half-breed Fae and Dragel like Gabriel and Michael.

“I am not going forever. I will come to see you again.”

Harry did not know why he needed that assurance but it soothed something deep inside him. Harry bit his lip and refused to look up until the emotions had let his room. Harry rubbed his chest. He needed to do research to figure out what all that had meant.

-----

A thirteen-year-old Harry sat up in bed when he felt the now familiar presence of his shadow. His Shadow was not afraid but there was a small tang of pain around him. Harry frowned until the shadows gave way to reveal Wikhn.

The lean muscular frame of his pale body had been bulking up significantly these past few years. Despite his muscles and his armour, the other Dark Faes still found ways to hurt him. Case in point the fact his dark black hair was matted with partially dried blood from a head wound. Harry chirped in inquiry but Wikhn waved it off. He checked himself for dirt before he came and sat on the edge of Harry’s bed. It would not do to leave dark stains on his comforter for his parents to question tomorrow.

Harry moved out from under his covers and gently tilted Wikhn’s head to examine the wound. “It is nothing Aku. Head wounds bleed profusely no matter how small.”

“Hush, you worry about me when I tell you not to. Let me worry about you.”

Wikhn went still, his pink eyes tracked Harry’s movements as he went into his bedside table for a first aid kit. Wikhn tried not to snort. How did his Intended still believe he was being sneaky when he kept a fully stocked first aid kit in his nightstand?

 Harry cleaned the wound and then he agreed that yes, the wound did not need stitches. Wikhn pushed the kit aside and pulled Harry into his arms. Harry sighed contently as he wrapped his arms around Wikhn’s neck. Harry pressed for a kiss as that was all Wikhn would allow. Harry was only thirteen. Though they both knew at this point they were soulbonded, but that bond was not yet finalised.

Harry wanted to bond since he had ravenously dug into his library after that night three years ago and had quickly determined the reaction had been soul magic between them. Wikhn had held firm that they could not bond until he was strong enough to protect him.

However, that reason was getting thin. Wikhn had worked his way up through the ranks within the Dark Fae despite them trying to keep him down. Very soon Harry would no longer accept that excuse.

Wikhn sighed softly and Harry hummed, “What are you thinking about, My Shadow?”

“I am just wondering what my life would have been like without you. I know I would still not be here in Tír na nÓg. The Dark Fae would have driven me out a long time ago. But would the Dragels have treated me better? I don’t know.”

“I don’t like that you have fought so hard all for me. I wish I could go there and fight them for you.” Harry growled.

Wikhn kissed Harry’s throat. “I am sure you would. But we both know your family would kill me if they found out you were anywhere near the Dark Fae territory.”

“And how would they know?”

“They would know,” Wikhn snorted.

Harry scowled as he nipped at Wikhn’s ear. “I want to be Bonded Wikhn. You are mine and I am yours.”

“We are, but why does it have to be early? I can wait until you are of age.” Harry whined again in a rather distressed sound. It was getting harder. The open soul bond was something Wikhn could tolerate. However, it seemed as if Harry were reaching his limit. Wikhn hummed, “Give me a week to consider it Harry.”

“Two days.”

“Four days and no less, you understand?”

Harry huffed, but nodded his agreement. Wikhn got Harry back into bed and laid above the covers beside him until Harry had fallen asleep. Four days was not a lot of time to do all that he needed to get done, but it would have to be enough. Wikhn could not stand to cause Harry distress.

------

A sixteen-year-old Harry was tossing and turning as he tried to sleep. His parents had announced that the Circle would be attending the Hunt in Neverah this year. No one had said why, but Harry knew it was his Ferros nature. He had heard them whispering when they thought he was not around. He knew if he did not get several Bonded this hunt his nature could over power his will and he could go insane.

However, knowing the facts and accepting his family making decisions without consulting him on them were two entirely different things. Harry rolled over once more and suddenly an invisible hand reached out from the foot of his bed and grabbed him. He was then turned and pulled under the bed into the shadows. Harry relaxed and held his breath as the shadow portal move him from his home. Harry opened his arms as he appeared in a small one room loft. His Shadow was right there to take him in his arms.

“I could feel you tossing and turning from here, Aku. What is wrong?”

Harry looked up and whined until Wikhn had picked him up and carried him to his armchair. Harry curled up against his chest but Wikhn rolled up his sleeve. “Bite Aku, you are too upset at the moment to have a proper conversation on anything.”

Harry hesitated a few seconds to be sure Wikhn was certain. It had been a few years since anyone had been able to beat Wikhn and bite him as a form of dominance. But there were still a few Dark Fae who liked to dominate him if they felt he was doing too well. They must not have been after Wikhn this week because he did not have any aversion to Harry’s fangs.

Harry bit his arm and whined as he took his comfort feed from his Bonded. Wikhn grumbled soothingly until Harry relaxed against him. Harry sleepily rubbed his eyes as Wikhn moved him to a more comfortable position for them both.

“Now what has you up this late, Aku?”

“My family announced at dinner we are going to Neverah for The Hunt.”

Wikhn snorted, “I could have told you that. Even if you were not so insistent about keeping our Bonding a secret, they would still insist. I am nowhere near enough to keep your Ferros nature in check.”

Harry growled, “They will stick their nose in our business and Gabriel will want to fight you or something.”

Wikhn smiled inwardly at his Bonded’s naivety. When Harry insisted three years ago that he wanted to Bond even though he was still underage, Wikhn would have been suicidal not to approach his family about it. Even with their Soulbond it was not a guarantee that the family of Light Fae would accept him. Wikhn had already been tested by both their ACE Gabriel and Harry’s Sire James, each in their own way.

 Harry still grumbled about busybody parents until Wikhn tilted his chin up and brought their lips together. Harry went still and purred happily. Wikhn pulled back and smiled, “It will be fine. As I said, I suspected they would do this. I have put in my requests to go for The Hunt as well.”

“You will go with me.”

“Yes, but it is your choice. I can go by your side or in the shadows, it is up to you.”

Harry sighed as he pressed his forehead to Wikhn’s, “Not tonight. But before we leave, I will tell them about us. I need you with me.”

“As you wish, Aku.”

They slowly kissed until Harry became too tired and fell asleep. Wikhn moved him back to his bedroom and was unsurprised to find Gabriel waiting for them. Wikhn tucked Harry into bed and kissed his temple before for he turned to address the General.

“He said he would tell you before we leave for Neverah. He wants me by his side during The Hunt.”

“Good, he will need your support. He will have three Dragel families, though well-meaning, they will still be pushing him toward the Bonds they think are right for him. Harry will need you there to look out for what he truly needs.”

“Thank you, your faith in me is appreciated, General.”

“It isn’t unfounded. We have three years of proof showing that nothing in this world means more to you than Harry. That being said, if you try to stay here tonight, as always, I will leave you to the tender mercies of Lily and Petunia in the morning. Without even a hint of regret.”

“I would rather swim through the Razor Swamp then get on their bad side.” Wikhn chuckled. “Goodnight, General.” Wikhn bowed before he portalled out of Harry’s room.

Gabriel watched his son sleep for several more seconds before he pushed off the wall and headed for his own room. Of all their children, he worried over Harry the least. The others seemed to think he was their most fragile child, but Gabriel knew they were wrong.   Harry was a warrior and soon he would find the rest of the circle he would need to become what Lady Death and Fate intended him to be. 

Inspiring comic by Chris Hallbeck

Chapter Text

Gabriel d’Bineshi, as he was known within the Fae Court settings, was a stern but protective father who had served the Fae Crown faithfully for a millennium already. However, outside the niceties of the Court he was known only as “The General.” Gabriel commanded one of the largest standing legions within the Fae Army. His record meant that his abilities and strategies would never be doubted, even though his heritage made many wish that they could.

Gabriel was not pureblooded Fae. Like his soulbonded mate, Gabriel was part Fae part Dragel. He and Michael were the thorn in the side of everyone who touted for blood purity. Michael was the only son of Princess Grelee who had defied the demands of the Court and Bonded into a Dragel circle. Gabriel had a similar heritage but not quite as privileged of a position given his Fae Sire had been a Commander in the army, not a Nobleman.

Gabriel and Michael were not naive. They knew why they had been pushed together since practically birth. The Court pinned all their hope on if they would Bond to each other so everyone could overlook their unfortunate heritage. Well, they did Bond and then Bonded again and again, picking up other half Dragel Bonded, displaced Fae, and other creatures in order to create a mixed-blood Circle of their choosing.

It was only his reputation and Michael’s Royal status that kept their family from falling under further fire when they returned from their ‘honeymoon’ period for real and people came to realise some of their Bonded were d’Bineshi. The Wandering Clans of Fae were looked on with more scorn than they deserved. The d’Bineshi never denied their Queen they paid their due to the government. They simply preferred not to put down roots.

Gabriel looked to his side. Lochlan; his Gheyo Queen was a Fae with an Air elemental affinity. While Gabriel considered him handsome, he could see how the snobbish prudes of the Court would view Lochlan and his kin differently. Most had darker skin rather than fair. Lochlan further deviated from the norms of Court with the d’Bineshi tattoos that covered most of his chest, back, and arms as well as wearing long dreadlocks.

Lochlan looked back at him and raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“Come here,” Gabriel ordered.

Lochlan fidgeted and made a mental check of his gear thinking he had left something out of place. Lochlan gasped and then groaned when Gabriel pulled him in for a kiss. “Do not try to distract me.” Lochlan grumbled, “You said someone breached the wards last night. I want to know who and why.”

Gabriel felt his heart skip again. Most parents would write off their child telling them that something was in their room. But Harry was an Empath and when he says he feels someone he means it. So, the thought of someone being in his seven-year-old bedroom in the middle of the night had terrified him. He had caught the magical signature of the intruder when he had checked under the bed the night before. He had left the rest of the Suite either guarding the family or checking the wards for a breach. He and Lochlan were going to track the intruder.

Gabriel nodded and held out his hand to transfer the knowledge of the incident and the signature to Lochlan. The Fae blinked and raised an eyebrow at Gabriel, “I get now why you pulled me to join you over Sirius or Remus, but you do realise those two will give you hell when they find out you have kept this from them.”

“I will deal with their ire later. Because quite frankly, the bond Remus and Sirius have with Harry is terrifying. They would tear this person apart without getting any answers from them.”

Lochlan grinned, “And you think I will not?”

“I trust you know how to follow an order. Or at least you can follow an order better than they can when it comes to our cub. I want information from this person first, Lochlan.”

Lochlan sighed as if it was a great inconvenience, “Fine, I won’t murder them. Let us go hunt a Dark Fae miscreant.”

The signature was not that hard to track. It was as if the intruder had made no attempt whatsoever to hide his trail. At first, they considered this arrogance on the intruder’s part at least until they tracked the signature to the training grounds where the youngling Dark Fae were starting their drills for the day. These Fae were all under their first century. Without question none of them would have the skills required to breach their wards, so there had to be something else going on here.

The drilling instructors took notice of Gabriel at once. “General, we do not often see you here on the Dark side.” He commented half teasing half anxious. “How can I help you?”

“A youngling Dark Fae has been causing some mischief. It was serious enough to warrant my attention. My Bonded and I have the signature of the Fae we seek, we just require you to keep this lot on the field so we can identify him.”

The instructor looked livid and Gabriel knew that look. If he had done something serious enough to bring a commander of his calibre to Gabriel’s drill instructor then he would have been put through the grinder for the next decade.

Gabriel grinned, “No need to fret over it. He will be made to pay for this in spades. It will not look badly on you.”

There was only a slight relaxing of the drill instructor’s face but it was the best Gabriel could do to alleviate the blow towards the youngling. Gabriel and Lochlan split up wandering through the field.   After half an hour Gabriel had the distinct feeling, he knew who he was seeking when he spotted a group from a distance.

A dozen of the trainees had closed ranks and were taking turns ‘sparring’ with one other youngling. The Half-Fae Dragel was clearly nothing more than a punching bag to them. He was in a halfling form just to try and prevent serious bodily damage. Gabriel would estimate the youngling was into his third decade but he was quite small so he could not be certain.

Gabriel saw that Lochlan had zeroed in on the group as well. They switched to Dragel hand signals and Gabriel told Lochlan to barge in and take the boy. Lochlan needed to make it look as if he were in for the beating of his life but Gabriel knew Lochlan would not have a problem with that. The next time the boy hit the ground Lochlan pushed in before his opponent could start hitting the prone figure.

“Enough! On your feet, you little shite. You will be in traction for a month when I get through with you.”

“Oi, d’Bineshi Dog, we saw him first.”

Gabriel cleared his throat and grinned wickedly, “Care to repeat that? No one insults my Bonded.”

The younglings recoiled from the General and murmured quick and anxious apologies. Gabriel reached over and roughly yanked the boy from Lochlan’s grip. “And you. Did you really think you were going to get away with that?” The youngling trembled in his grip but not from fear. The boy could barely stand his body was so damaged. He would have died before the day was out at the rate the other trainees had been pounding on him.

Gabriel was disgusted but as a Light Fae he had no real say in the running of the Dark Fae training camps. Gabriel shoved him back at Lochlan. “Bring him, I do not have time to deal with this shite. I will get to him when I have time.” He glared back at the other younglings. “Don’t you have something to be doing?”

The Dark Fae younglings scattered as they went back to their drills. Gabriel could see Lochlan made it look as if he were dragging the boy but in reality, he was carrying him at this point. They needed to get him treatment for his injuries immediately.

On their way out, the Drill Instructor snarled. “I should have known he was the one you would be looking for. Nothing but trouble with that one. He cannot follow an order worth a damn and he is so accident-prone.”

“I don’t know when I will get done with him. But I will be sure to return what is left.”

The drill instructor looked amused and turned back to the field. When they were out of sight, Lochlan turned and scooped the boy into his arms. “The Clinic?”

“I don’t trust them to work fast enough, we will take him to Raphael. That way I know absolutely everything that can be done will be done for him.”

Lochlan nodded and they move swiftly to Raphael’s private clinic. Raphael was the only Healer who was responsible for treating Adam. Lochlan’s soulbonded so the Queen would not deny that Raphael was an excellent healer. In fact, the man had become such an interquel part of their lives that Gabriel was certain Petunia would ask Raphael and his soulbonded Israfel to join their Circle.

Gabriel pushed open the door to the clinic and called out. “Raphael?”

Israfel came out of the back and glared at Gabriel. The lithe blonde Air Fae with cream coloured skin had enough tattoos to rival Lochlan and he always seemed to be wearing too much leather. His blonde hair was slicked back as if he was going to a party not working reception for the clinic.

“Stop bellowing, he is in with another patient.”

“This boy cannot wait. He is half dead as it is,” Gabriel snapped back at him.

Israfel directed them to an empty exam room and turned to head to the back again. Lochlan sighed, “Gabriel, you need to get over this thing you have against Israfel. You know the Circle likes them and it is only a matter of time until Petunia asks them.”

“He drinks, he smokes, he uses drugs.”

“All of which applied to me when I joined the Circle and still apply to me when I lapse. And yet you will work with me and help me get back on my feet. Why must you fight with him?”

“Leave it be.” Gabriel scowled as the doors opened and Raphael and Israfel slipped in.

Raphael was the opposite of Israfel in every way his chocolate-coloured skin was unblemished by either tattoos or piercings. His head was shaved on the sides and what short wavy black hair he had fell lightly and clean against his head. As Israfel handed over everything Raphael asked for, the shocking contrast of their skin was even more apparent. The only thing that lightened Raphael’s complexion was when he got agitated and his golden scales would shine through his skin.  

When Raphael had got a few healing potions into the boy he sighed, “Where did you find this one?”

“The Dark Fae Youngling training camp.” Lochlan answered while he helped Raphael to roll the boy onto his side so he could inspect his back.

Gabriel tapped his foot agitatedly, “We were looking for him to question him, but we found him being cornered by at least a dozen other trainees.”

“Typical,” Raphael sneered and Israfel nodded.

Gabriel almost snapped at Israfel that he knew nothing about as a pureblood Fae but Lochlan elbowed him in the stomach on ‘accident’ as he stepped back from the table. Gabriel grumbled under his breath but did not say anything to Israfel. It took several hours of hard work from Raphael to pull the boy back from the edge. When he was stable Raphael led them out of the exam room.

“This was not an isolated incident. They did not just take training too far today as a mistake. This was compounded by injuries from at least several months of abuse. You cannot let him go back into that training programme or he will not make it out alive.”

“I will try to help him Raphael, but you know as well as I do, if I move him out of the standard training regime, it will be seen as favouritism and could make it harder on the boy.”

“As long as he lives, I think he will have the stomach for it. Now, do not think that I did not hear that comment about interrogating him. What do you think he did?”

“I don’t think. I know he somehow snuck into our home last night. He had agitated Harry’s empathic spiral and I pulled his signature from the shadows under Harry’s bed.”

Raphael hummed and he did take the memories of what Gabriel had experienced in the room while he considered the possibility. “Given your wards it should be impossible. I can only think of two possible exceptions.”

“And what would those be.”

“The first option is that this Fae is a blood-related child of someone in your household.”  Gabriel shook his head fiercely and Raphael nodded, “I know. I did just spend several hours healing him. I know he is not a blood relation to any of yours. So that brings me to the second option. He was able to enter your property in the one place he was safest. The place he was meant to be.”

“You… You mean he could be one of Harry’s Soulbonded.”

“It is possible. Some of the injuries I noted have happened within the past day. If he had been seriously hurt, and on the run, then his magic might have guided him to Harry so he would have a safe place to hide. The potential Soulbond could have easily bypassed the wards.”

Israfel spoke up, “If that is the case you will likely not be able to keep him away. Any time he needs Harry or Harry needs him they will be drawn to each other.” 

“Harry is just a child.”

Raphael rolled his eyes at the General, “Yes, and your Bonded Michael has a cousin who is in the same position. He is half a millennium old and his Soulbonded is that newest Lovegood heiress. She is a year younger than Harry if I am not mistaken. It can happen. You just have to keep an eye on them so that they move at their own pace and no one is pushing the other for more than they are ready to give.”

Israfel added, “If you push them apart or are too harsh on them, they will only go behind your backs to see each other.”

“Speaking from experience there.” Gabriel countered sarcastically to Israfel. He was only two centuries old and Raphael was closer to a millennium after all.

Israfel tensed and Raphael rubbed his back soothingly, “Yes, he is. His family reacted badly both to my age and heritage when we discovered our Soulbond. Israfel may have been into his first century by then but it did not matter. They did not want a Half Dragel for their son.”

Israfel excused himself and retreated into the clinic. Raphael glared at Gabriel. “Israfel has not had any contact with his family since he chose me. He was thrown out with nothing but the clothes he was wearing.” Raphael defiantly looked up at Gabriel. “I know you don’t like his lifestyle choices but they are the result of him losing everything he loved overnight. I am all he has now. Your attitude, Gabriel, is the only thing that keeps us from accepting Petunia’s hand.”

Gabriel grumbled and turned to leave the clinic. Lochlan shook his head and asked, “Can I sit with the boy until he wakes?”

“Yes, but beware. I am not sure how conscious of his surroundings he really was when you picked him up. There is a good chance he will panic when he wakes.”

“I will keep an eye out for that,” Lochlan agreed as he headed for the exam room again. He had volunteered to give Raphael the chance to check on Israfel.

Gabriel did understand how couples interacted but at the same time did not understand it well when it looked different from what he had come to know. He was a soldier and that was how he had been raised all his life. Along the way he had witnessed and learned about intimacy between partners but he never had the chance to practise it much. The fact that Gabriel had been soulbonded to Michael at a very young age did not help him.

Also, Michael had quirks that had affected their perceptions of others. Michael was not an intimate person by nature. He was a very reserved man and he had a hard time showing his affections other than in private. Even in front of their other Bonded it was hard for him to show more affection than holding hands and cuddling. He had become less reserved and was less embarrassed by others being intimate in the years since the Circle had come together. Despite those strides, more than a millennium of learned behaviours do not just vanish overnight.  

Lochlan grinned to himself as he sat beside the sleeping boy. Honestly, he would pay to see behind closed doors when Lily and Petunia take it upon themselves to gang up on Michael and Gabriel. He would bet Michael becomes adorably frustrated by having the sisters focus their affections upon him. He and Adam had a good laugh over it on several occasions.

Raphael was wrong about the panic as it turned out. The boy slept as if he were dead and seemed to have mastered waking up with as little movement as possible. A smart tactic given his living conditions. Lochlan almost missed it but he spotted a fine tremor in his brow when his eyes almost opened and he fought to keep him closed. 

“You are in a healing clinic. No one will hurt you here.”

The boy remained still for a full minute before he opened his eyes. “You are not a Dark Fae. Where am I?”

“No, I am not and I told you that you are in a clinic. More precisely a private healing clinic not the triage centres the Training Camps are known for running.”

“Why am I here?”

“My ACE had some questions for you, but you were halfway to Lady Death’s embrace when we picked you up. So, it was either bring you here, or not get our answers.” Lochlan noticed the flinch but there was also an almost instant relaxing of his posture after he processed the term ACE for what it was.

“Your ACE?”

“My ACE, I may be Fae but when in a Dragel Circle you tend to use Dragel terminology. I am his Queen by the way.”

 The boy nodded as he tested his body. He was stiff and sore but far better than he had been. Before he could move, Raphael showed up. “If you even think about getting out of that bed, I will have my Bonded strap you down understand?”

Israfel chortled, “That would be amusing.”

The boy growled until Lochlan smacked the top of his head firmly but without causing lingering damage. The boy whined but then went quite once more when Raphael started to send spells his way. “You will live this time. But you need to understand that if Lochlan and Gabriel had not picked you out of the Dark Fae encampment you would have died today.”

Wikhn swallowed down his emotions and sat up when he was directed too. His head started to spin and Lochlan had to move over and brace him. “Why did you come looking for me?”

“You managed to bypass our wards and ended up in our seven-year-old’s bedroom. Did you think that was going to be ignored?”

Wikhn winced, “I wasn’t trying to. I was just following the shadows looking for the quickest and safest route across the city.”

“And it led to my son’s room?”

Wikhn bit his lip as he nodded, “I am sorry, I think I upset him.”

Raphael spoke up, “Yes and no, their son is an Empath. He could feel your fear and pain, that was what upset him about you being there.”

“I left as soon as I realised that he could sense me.”

“He told us. But you have to understand we needed to find out who you were and why you were there.” Lochlan stated. Gabriel slipped into the room but he hung back against the wall.

“We were on a night operation. I do not know why, but after we did the job, the unit I was with decided to have some fun on the way back. They declared me the prey and started to hunt me. I was just trying to make it back to camp.”

“Did you pick apart our wards?”

“No, honest. I did not even realise I had entered a warded property. I did not feel them going in or leaving.”

Raphael nodded, “I told you.”

“What?” Wikhn frowned.

Lochlan winced, “Raphael believes that you were allowed through our wards because you might have a potential Soulbond to our son. That your soul lead you there last night because it was the safest place for you.”

That got some panic from the boy, “No! No, I can’t have a Soulbonded. I can barely keep myself alive.”

“You would deny him?” Gabriel’s voice was frosty from the wall.

Wikhn winced against the oppressive aura. He had never felt a Light Fae who had that much power. “Gabe, back off.” Lochlan hissed. But it was too late. Wikhn spotted a hole and slipped between Israfel and Raphael while Lochlan and Gabriel were distracted. Gabriel growled as they heard the outer clinic door slam shut.

Lochlan scowled at him. “Do not look at me. First you rail on and on that Harry is too young for a Soulbonded then you nearly smite the boy when he says he is not strong enough to take on a Soulbonded. Make up your mind because I am tired of dealing with the whiplash. Raphael, bill this to our account. Soulbonded notwithstanding, that boy cannot afford the bill himself.”

“I will, Lochlan. Please remind Adam that I will see him for his check-up on the new moon.” Lochlan nodded and left the clinic at an even pace even though Gabriel was stalking after him.

-----

For the next two years, Wikhn did his absolute best to deny the possibility of a Soulbond. However, it became more and more common for the shadows to lead him through the city and into that boy’s bedroom. Some nights he would wake up and others he would sleep soundly through his visit. When Wikhn started to end up there two to three times a week, he could no longer deny the truth. Something was drawing him to the small boy.    

Wikhn had managed to avoid his attackers tonight but he was still scared when he hid in the shadows of the room. To his surprise the boy was wide awake and glaring at him. Well, not at him. Even with his empathy the boy was not fully able to track him in the shadows, but he glared in his general direction fairly accurately.

The boy sat there and crossed his arms over his chest in the most adorable pout. “If you are going to continue to come hide out in my room, the least you can do is show me your face or give me your name.”

Wikhn had no intention of doing either. This was just a bump in his path. One more hurdle he needed to overcome. Wikhn asked, “Why do you care?”

“You are hurt. You are always hurt and I want to help.” The sincerity in those eyes was painful to see. This boy knew absolutely nothing about him yet somehow genuinely cared for him.

Wikhn’s voice broke in the quiet space as he replied, “It won’t matter. If they see that the wounds they gave me are treated, they will just pin me down and make more.”

The boy seemed both scared and worried by that declaration. He shifted out from under his covers and knelt closer to Wikhn’s hiding place. “Why would they do that?”

“Because I am not like them. I am not like them and I am not pure Fae.”

“Is that why you come here?”

Wikhn knew what Lochlan had told him of their Circle but he had been too panicked to learn more. One name was not enough to research all of the Fae Kingdom. Despite his resolve to stay away, he was intrigued to learn more. “What do you mean?”

“This is a mixed house. Some of my parents are Fae, some are Dragel, and some are half-breeds.”

Wikhn shifted at that, “Wait, what is your family name.”

The boy shook his head stubbornly, “Pretty demanding for a shadow that will not tell me his own name.” They both fell silent.

Wikhn moved across the room testing the shadows to see if he could leave yet. And no, they were still defensively telling him to stay put. Eventually Wikhn sighed, “Maybe some other time, I will tell you what my name is.”

The boy marked him as he crossed the room and he nervously shifted back on his bed closer to his headboard once more. Wikhn reached out with a nearly invisible hand and brushed his hand down the boy’s wrist. Bright silvery magic leapt from the point of contact. The boy looked absolutely confused, so that meant his parents had not conveyed the theory of their Soulbond to him.

Wikhn bowed his head, “I had hoped, but no…”

“What did that mean?” The boy asked in a tone that held a slight bit of fear but was more governed by curiosity.

Wikhn steadied his voice, “Nothing, not now at least. It may mean something when you are older.”                                                                                                                                    

The boy growled, which was adorable, “Why do you get to decide that it means nothing!”

Wikhn cupped his chin, “It cannot mean anything now, because I cannot protect you as I am. It cannot mean anything until I am able to stand by your side unafraid.”

The boy whined as Wikhn pressed his lips to his temple. He could see the boy was feeling the effects of the Soulbond already. He was leaning into his touch craving more. Wikhn would not be able to stay away now. He would likely need to come to him every day. He made a soft soothing sound and it worked. 

The boy stilled and let him tuck him back into bed. “I am not going forever. I will come to see you again.”

The boy seemed really confused as to why Wikhn’s assurance soothed him so. Wikhn had seen his schooling over the past two years. The boy was smart and loved to learn. There was no way this boy would not dive into research to figure out what was happening between them. The boy bit his lip as Wikhn tucked him in. He refused to look up again until Wikhn had left the room.

Instead of leaving the property as he normally would, Wikhn went in search of the one family members he felt comfortable approaching. Wikhn had been looking in the halls for Lochlan but something jerked him through the shadows into a room. It was a bedroom with two men in it. Wikhn instantly recognised Lochlan who was sitting against a headboard reading a report. However, the blonde Fae lying in his lap was certainly not Gabriel. He growled in his sleep and Wikhn froze.

Lochlan soothed his Bonded until the growl eased and his breathing evened out once more. Lochlan put the report aside and signed. “Do you know Gheyo hand signals?”

Wikhn responded immediately, “Yes, I do.”

“Good this is Adam; my Bonded, but he has many of the same instincts as a Pareya. Try not to wake him.”

Wikhn nodded, not wanting to wake up a person who specialised in defensive magics. Adam had wavy blonde hair but it was more of a white blonde then Gabriel’s golden curls. Lochlan threaded his finger, though his hair and Adam sighed in contentment. Adam’s body was lean almost bordering on the frail side as if he was recovering from a long sickness. It was not impossible among the Fae, but it was more common in younglings. It was fairly rare for an adult Fae to become that sick.

Wikhn was not able to consider that any further as Lochlan signed a message. “Gabriel and I set triggers, so that if you ever wandered the house it would pull you to one of us before you accidentally ran into one of the others.”

“I was looking for you so that worked out.”

“What did you need? Is Harry alright?”

Harry. Wikhn held that name in his heart. “He is fine, but I touched his wrist tonight. The soul magic flashed between us. I figured you should know, as he is probably going to run amuck trying to find information about it.”

Lochlan snorted and nodded that was certainly how Harry would react. “I will warn Gabriel then. I expect you will be coming by more frequently now.”

“I will try not to wake him but yes. I don’t want him to become uncomfortable because of the open Soulbond.”

“We still have not told anyone about this so only myself, Gabriel, Raphael, and Israfel know. However, if you start to move this bond along, we will need to tell the others.”

Wikhn shook his head, “I am not good enough. I am getting stronger but I still cannot protect him. I will not step into the light as his Bonded until I am strong enough to keep him safe.”

“Fair enough, but just so you know our Harry may not play into your plan. Do not be surprised if he argues with you every step of the way. His Bearer has quite the fiery temper.”

Wikhn smiled, “I am warned. Goodnight Lochlan.”

“Goodnight Wikhn.”

Wikhn turned and raised a brow at that. Lochlan shook his head, “Whether you admitted it or not I knew you were Harry’s. Did you think I would not find out everything about you?”

“Was it you or Gabriel who got me transferred to a different training camp?”

“That was all Gabe. Did it help?” Wikhn nodded and waved as he slipped through the shadows out into the night once more.

-----

Even though he was worrying for no reason Wikhn was not going to complain when Harry pressed close to treat his wound. At thirteen Harry was still far too young for anything beyond cuddling so Wikhn would accept as much of it as he could get. Harry treated the cut and then went on to threaten to attack the Dark Fae for him.

   He loved Harry’s blood thirsty side and Wikhn could hardly blame him for it given who his parents were. While not biologically his parents, Harry had Kae and Lochlan d’Bineshi, The General, and Prince Michael as role models in his life. Wikhn was not too proud to admit that he outright panicked for nearly a month when he finally pieced together who his future in-laws would be.

Individually they were terrifying but as a unit they were practically unstoppable when something threatened their family. He was not discounting Remus and Sirius the two lowest Gheyos in the Suite either. The Werewolf and Dragel may not be a physically strong as their Gheyic Triad but their fierceness in protecting the children of the circle was legendary. 

Dudley, Harry’s older brother, had left home for a speciality defensive magic course. The youngling merrow was quite easily identified as a non-pureblood and had fell victim to xenophobic prejudices. The specifics of what went the prince-princess pair did was not exactly known in the Capital, but the Fae Queen had levied a huge fine upon her grandson for it. Prince Michael had paid the fine but refused to issue any apologies as he was Dudley’s third and if Remus and Sirius had not taken care of it, he would have.

Wikhn pulled his thoughts back as Harry threatened again to track down his bullies. Wikhn kissed Harry’s throat in appreciation but shook his head. “I am sure you would. But we both know your family would kill me if they found out you were anywhere near the Dark Fae territory.”

Harry huffed, “And how would they know?”

“They would know,” Wikhn snorted at Harry’s naivety. He still believed his parents knew nothing about them.

Harry scowled as he nipped at Wikhn’s ear in retaliation. “I want to be Bonded, Wikhn. You are mine and I am yours.”

“We are,” Wikhn agreed mentally preparing to try to talk Harry out of this once again. 

This was hardly the first time Harry had voiced this need. However, the depth of the statement and the frequency were both increasing. He paused to remove his arm guards so that he had more skin available for Harry to touch. Immediately Harry leaned in and nuzzled against his bare wrist.

“But why does it have to be early? I can wait until you are of age.”

Harry whined a rather distressed sound. Oh, that was a bad sound. Harry had never sounded that broken and desperate before. If he had inherited already Wikhn was certain that it would have been a Heartcry. It appeared they had reached the limit. Wikhn would not hurt Harry even if it were for his own good.

Wikhn pulled Harry close as he made his plans. “Give me a week to consider it, Harry.”

“Two days.” Harry countered the start of tears shimmering in the corners of his eyes.

“Four days and no less, you understand?”

Harry huffed but nodded his agreement but it was not a sound of disagreement. More like a sound of resignation. Wikhn got Harry back into bed and laid above the covers beside him until Harry had fallen asleep. Four days was not a lot of time to do all that he needed to get done, but it would have to be enough. Wikhn could not stand to cause Harry any more distress. He got up and went wandering again, something he had not done since their Soulbond had been confirmed. 

Wikhn was pulled across the house and deposited in a resting room. Great, he moaned internally. The growls he was met with were silenced by an order from Gabriel. One woman did not heed his order but Lochlan and Kae manage to pin her to the floor.

Wikhn moved back against the furthest wall to be safe. “Umm, Joker?”

“Joker, don’t mind Rakia,” Gabriel sat up.

“Who is this, Gabriel?”

Wikhn tried not to shudder under the gaze of Prince Michael. Because of his Dragel heritage he was not considered eligible for the Fae Throne but he was still the grandson of their Queen. Wikhn had never been in the presence of Royalty before now.

“Everyone, Lochlan and I have been dropping hints for a few years now that Harry has a Soulbonded. This is him. Wikhn, why did you leave Harry’s room?”

Lily hissed at the thought of a man being in her son’s room but Petunia hushed her as Wikhn cleared his throat. “If Harry were old enough to inherit, I am certain he would have just given me a Heartcry. I think he is at the limit for how long he can tolerate our Soulbond being unsealed.”

Wikhn offered his hand to transfer the memory and he had to steady himself when Michael sat up to take it. Michael processed the memory and sighed. “He is right. Harry needs the Bond sealed.”

“I came to you because I know a few of you will want to test me before you will allow it. I got Harry to give me four days to sort things out.”

Michael nodded, “We will discuss this and let you know what we decide upon. The sooner we sort this the less Harry will be distressed. I assume you can reach him, Gabe?”

Gabriel leaned into Michael but Michael pulled back from him expressing he was annoyed with him Gabriel offered no apology as he answered, “Either Lochlan or I can find him. We both know which Dark Fae training camp he has been assigned to.”

“As you say, we will contact you within a day.” Wikhn nodded and bowed to them before he shadowed out of the room.

Gabriel tilted his head when Michael glared back at him. “I am sorry solnyshko, but you did not take a hint well. That goes for a few of you.”

“Why did you not tell us outright?” Lily snapped, “You have let this man into my son’s room and…”

James interrupted her, “Lily, you slept in my dormitory room for half a year before we both inherited. We did not do anything more than sleep.”

“We adjusted the wards when we first found out about him. Both Lochlan and myself were tied to them back then. And we adjusted them further when Harry became aware of the Soulbond. At that point we informed the whole Suite to attempt to avoid reactions like Rakia’s. After Harry knew of the Soulbond Wikhn needed to see him every night to keep the unfulfilled Bond from distressing Harry.

“How long?” Michael asked.

Gabriel sighed, “Wikhn first stumbled into Harry’s room on accident when Harry was seven. Harry did not learn of the Soulbond until he was nine. Wikhn has been coming to see him every night for the past three and a half years and in that time, he has never tripped our intimacy wards. I don’t think Wikhn has ever even given Harry a proper kiss.”

Lochlan shook his head, “Not as far as I have seen on the records. Most kisses to his temple or maybe his throat if Harry is really upset.”

The others of the Suite, including Remus and Sirius nodded. Lily looked at them. “You both knew.”

“As Gabriel said, we learned of it after Harry was nine.” Sirius stated, “My first night on watch I spied on them I will admit and Gabriel is right. Wikhn is tender with Harry.”

Remus tapped his nose, “They smell like Bonded but never once have they smelled of pheromones or sex on my watch.”  

Rakia sat up and rubbed her shoulder. Lochlan massaged her shoulder too in order to ease the tension he had put on it. “I have watched them too. I only reacted badly because I was not expecting him to appear in our room.”

“That is that wander ward we told you about. Wikhn only has access to Harry’s room. If he leaves that room, the ward pulls him to Lochlan or myself whomever is closest. Usually Loch, since his room is closer to Harry’s. This is the first time it has been activated when we have been all together.”

Lochlan waved it off, “He rarely wanders. He has been pulled to me only once or twice over the years.”

Michael hummed, “Well he is a Gheyo, right?” When Gabriel nodded Michael moved into his arms. “So, I assume you will want to test his ability in a fight. Who else then?”

James spoke up, “Harry is my son and Heir. I do not yet know how I will test him but I feel as if I need to.”

Michael nodded and looked between Lily and Aenon. “And you both?”

Lily hummed, “No, if James approves then I will settle down. But I am still mad at you all.”

“Noted,” Gabriel agreed not phased. However, Remus and Sirius looked slightly worried about it. 

Aenon tilted his head to James. “I will talk to James about any of my concerns and it should be sufficient. I do not think I will have to test the boy myself.”

Michael nodded, “Good, I do not want to draw this out for Harry’s sake. Go to sleep, everyone.”

-----

The following day when Wikhn was called off the training field by his unit leader. He noted that Lochlan looked slightly out of place as a Light Fae in Dark Fae territory. Adam, on the other hand, looked completely out of place in his light tunic, simple leggings, and he was not wearing a scrap of armour. 

Though Adam had got healthier for the past few years, Wikhn had learned, through the available rumours, that whatever the sickness it had was not cured by any means. Raphael, the Healer they had Bonded to, constantly monitored his health, frequently treating the recurring symptoms or else he would relapse. 

He gave his attention to his Unit Leader, “Wikhn you have been put on leave for the next week. The order has come down from someone of a higher grade than me.”

Wikhn knew what that meant; he was being told off, so he simply nodded and waited for the follow-up. When it did not come, Wikhn looked up inquisitively and he saw Lochlan was glaring at his leader. Wikhn held up his hands, “I do not wish for special favours. I will work double shifts to make it up when I return.”

“If you return.” Lochlan sneered. “You are our son-in-law. We would be justified in removing you from the regimented training structure altogether.”

Wikhn had mixed feelings about that. Being trained by the General would be a dream come true for any Fae. But he was doing well here and staying would prove that he earned whatever ranks he eventually achieved was of his own accord. No one could accuse him of taking the easy road. “We will have to see how this plays out. I suppose it mainly depends on if Harry can tolerate me being away from him.”

At least his leader seemed to soften at that comment. That was true of all Fae. Wikhn certainly would not be the first person, who had to drop out of training because a newly found Bonded could not tolerate the long stretches of separation. Wikhn signed the paperwork agreeing that he would be without pay for the week he was on leave and then he left with Adam and Lochlan.

“So, what is the plan?”

“Gabriel has something in mind. I am not privy to the plan since Rakia and I will be remaining with our family. Gabriel, Kae, Sirius, and Remus are going to take you out. You will act as the lowest member of the Suite while you are gone. This will let them test your abilities and give you some experience of how a Gheyo Suite actually operates.”

Wikhn felt a bubble of excitement over this plan. Harry was a Dragel so he would have a full Suite eventually Wikhn was eager to see a true Suite in action. “But I told Harry four days that hardly seems enough time to…” He trailed off thinking he might be talking out of turn by wanting more time with the Suite.

Adam chuckled, “I like him, you should have let me meet him sooner. Do not worry about the time being short. Gabriel knows of a Realm where time runs faster than ours but we have also hired a Time Mage to accompany you all. I believe he intends for you to have a full two weeks in the field with them.”

Wikhn could not help the grin that played on his face. They made it to the barracks and Wikhn asked, “When do we leave?”

Lochlan smiled back, “As soon as you gather your current gear and we stop by a shop to pick you up some cold weather gear. Gabe was certain your kit would not have adequate provisions for that.”

Wikhn shook his head, “No, we have not yet got to the stage where they would start our extreme survival trainings yet.” He slipped into the barracks to grab his gear. While Adam and Lochlan shared an amused look over Wikhn poorly disguised excitement.

-----

Wikhn settled with a groan at the table across from James. Harry’s Sire had rented a room for them to meet in for his inquisition. James chuckled as he got up and procured food and drink for them from the sidebar. “Gabriel and the rest of the Suite are quite pleased with you. They believe you will make for a great Gheyo for Harry. Not ACE mind you but probably Queen,”

Wikhn sighed contently, “It was great, but I will not lie. I am exhausted.”

James set the food down before him. “Well, you do not have to worry about anything strenuous from me. No. I have a story to tell you about my home Realm, and then we are going to talk about how you intend to make certain that if Harry ever goes back there, he is absolutely safe.”

Wikhn nodded and grimly listened to the insanity of Lord Voldemort and the prophecy that marked Harry as the only person who could defeat him. Wikhn clenched his fist as he listened. If he had his way, Harry would never set foot on that Realm again, but he knew that was a nice plan in theory but reality rarely lived up to hopes and dreams so he happily spent several hours with James, devising strategies to keep Harry safe.

-----

Wikhn shadowed into Harry’s room exactly four days after he had left. Harry slammed into him like a battering ram. Wikhn took the hit and fell back against the wall. Harry was growling and there were tears in his eyes. Wikhn knew staying away for four days straight was the cause of Harry’s distress. So, he let him punch and kick him until he wore down. When Harry sagged against him, Wikhn scooped him into his arms and carried him back to his bed. 

When settled side by side under the covers as the tears started to flow. The tears were harder to bear than the hitting had been. He could handle making Harry angry because he could fix it. But tears meant Harry was hurt and it was less likely that Wikhn could change it.

“I am sorry, Aku, I had to take care of things for us. I would not have stayed away and hurt you if it had not been to get ready for the Bonding you asked me for.”

“Why did you have to stay away?”

Wikhn went with the small lie Gabriel had suggested. “I had to work more to cover my expenses, so I could take a few days off and stay with you after we Bond. And I had to make arrangements for the future. It will not matter yet, but after you inherit, I will need to take off for your rest periods so I needed to make arrangements for that.”

Not totally a lie, as Michael had taken care of registering them as Bonded privately and had filed all the necessary paperwork for their future relationship while he had been gone with the Suite.

Harry’s breathing calmed and the tears slow. “You were doing all of this for me?”

“For Us, Aku,” Wikhn brushed away his tears. They simply cuddled together until Harry calmed and he was able to relax his body against Wikhn. 

Wikhn had never shared a bed with anyone other than Harry and this was different. Before now he had always laid on top of the covers with at least two blankets between them. In this moment he only had his causal tunic on and Harry was wearing a lighter weight sleeping tunic with no sleeves. He could feel all of Harry’s developing muscles as well as the thinness of his frame. Wikhn had no doubt Harry would be a quick and deadly fighter one day. He was attempting to decide if running his hand down Harry’s back would be too forward when Harry’s hand transitioned from just resting on his chest to feeling him.

Wikhn let himself relax down onto his back as Harry sat up and started to explore. They would not have a sexual relationship yet but Wikhn felt no harm in allowing Harry to explore his body. Harry mapped up his pecks and over his collar bones onto his shoulders. Wikhn smiled encouragingly as Harry blushed down at him. Harry felt his arms and Wikhn flexed his own strengthening muscles under his hands. 

Harry started to hum in appreciation. Wikhn had been so preoccupied with Harry’s hands that he was completely surprised when Harry picked himself up and straddled his hips.

Wikhn hissed at the friction that caused between them and Harry huffed in surprise himself. Wikhn did not need the string of the warning from the intimacy wards to know he needed to do something about that. He fit his hands upon Harry’s hips and lifted him onto his stomach instead. 

“Not yet. You are not ready for that yet.”

Harry was blushing pinker than a dragon fruit and he nodded in agreement. Wikhn caressed his cheek. “When you are ready, I will happily take that step with you. Just not at thirteen years old.”  Harry’s embarrassment seemed to wane and he leaned forward. He lay over Wikhn’s chest Wikhn tilted up his head as Harry tucked his head under his chin. 

Harry hummed, “So how does this work?”

“You are still underage so all we have to do is exchange our Claiming Bites and then we seal it with a hug. Simple.”

“But … but biting. You hate biting.”

“I don’t hate biting. As a part Dragel, I grew up in a mixed family for my childhood, the same as you have. In our family we would blood-share for comfort or if we got hurt. It is natural for Dragels. What I have a problem with is biting for punishment or dominance. Some of the Dark Fae picked up on the blood-sharing trait and figured they could twist it in order to hurt me. After they beat me until I could no longer stand, then one who was the instigator of the attack for the day would pin me to the floor and bite the back of my shoulder near my neck until I yielded in submission to them.”

Harry whined sharply but Wikhn shushed him. “Easy Harry. That has only happened a few times since I transferred to this new camp. I promise I will be fine with your bite, in order to receive your mark.” Harry pushed himself up so he could look down into Wikhn’s face trying to spot a lie. All he saw was Wikhn’s love for him shining back at him. “I am yours, Aku, mark me wherever you want.”

Harry laid back down on Wikhn chest and listened to his heart for several minutes, his fingers playing across his chest until Harry pressed down on his pectoral muscle. Wikhn kissed the top of Harry’s head and shifted him to lay beside him. Harry watched completely wide eyed as Wikhn removed his tunic.

Sure, he had seen his parents without their shirts on but they were his parents. It was entirely another thing to see a man he loved without clothes on. Harry blushed but Wikhn made a soothing sound. Wikhn laid down with his hands tucked under his head so that if Harry wanted to explore there would not be any risk of tripping the ward.

Harry again ran his fingers over Wikhn’s chest mapping the features he had felt through the fabric. He was blushing a great deal by the time he moved back up to Wikhn’s pectoral. Wikhn cooed to sooth him and Harry relaxed slightly. Wikhn used his claw to start a cut line for Harry since he did not have fangs yet to easily pierce the skin. Harry purred as his teeth fit in and deepened the cut. He revelled in the taste of Wikhn’s blood but he listened to his soft but still present instinct that spoke up in his mind. They told him when he had taken enough blood.

Harry was flushed this time not with embarrassment, but from the spark of different magic in Wikhn’s Fae blood. Harry was used to that in his family, he had to be careful of some of his parents as they were pure-blooded Fae. They could give him the absolute worst type of magical high. Harry giggled as he sat back. He purred and tilted his neck to the side in an offering.

Wikhn sat up but only brushed his lips over the nape of Harry’s neck. “Your neck is usually for your Alpha and Beta in your Bonded. Are you sure you want it there?”

Harry tilted his head and his eyes narrowed, listening to something inside himself. Wikhn remained still waiting for Harry to sort out his waking instincts. They would not be fully awake until his inheritance but with their Bonding some of his basest instincts would remain awake. Harry chirped and this time instead of offering the side of his neck he tilted his head back and brushed his fingers over the bottom of his throat.

Wikhn was surprised but he was not going to argue with Harry’s instincts. He moved Harry into a better position and looped one arm under him in support. Harry purred as Wikhn kissed his throat one more time to check for any fear but when Harry did not so much as flinch Wikhn went about placing his mark a gently as he could. 

Harry hissed at the initial break of his skin but then his body went lax and he hummed happily. When Wikhn had finished, he pulled Harry up and into his arms. Harry clung to him as the Bond flared between them Wikhn had heard it was supposed to be a shift twist and click but theirs was so easy he barely registered anything beyond the click of the bond settling into place. As if they were almost perfectly aligned with one another. Harry let out a soft sound that was a mixture of surprise and relief as he sagged into Wikhn’s arms.

Wikhn could feel Harry’s Mark on him healing over, but he still forced some fairy dust into both wounds to speed it up. Harry squirmed some at the feeling but patted Wikhn’s arm when he looked at him concerned.

 “Fairy Dust tickles me. Always has.” Harry noticed the contemplative look in Wikhn’s eyes and sighed. “I am probably going to regret telling you that eventually.”

Wikhn teased him, “Only if you are being a brat. I am not above dousing you in Fairy Dust if it gets you to behave.” Harry pouted but chirped softly as he lay back on the bed and patted the space beside him.

Wikhn had spoken with Harry’s family so they knew he would be spending the next couple of days with Harry until the Bond settled fully. But it would be interesting to see how Harry chose to play things in the morning. …

And he was not at all shocked to be shuffled into the closet when Lily and Adam came to wake him and Dudley for breakfast. Wikhn resigned himself to being Harry’s “Secret” for the time being.

------

Wikhn followed his sixteen-year-old bonded down the hall. He was told he was to hide within the shadows until Harry could talk to his parents, about their bonding and that he wanted Wikhn to come with him to Neverah. However, Wikhn deliberately showed himself upon entering the sitting room so he would not set off the Gheyos. 

They all hid smirks as Wikhn made himself blend into the shadows of the room once more. Harry strode forward with intent to make his big announcement, but he was distracted as Arwen let out very loud cry. Harry instantly made a line for his little sister who was in Adam’s arms as he slowly rocked her.

“She is still up?” Harry asked worriedly.

“Her molars are growing in, Harry,” Raphael explained. “Her gums are irritated, but it is nothing that we need to worry about. She will just be uncomfortable until they pop through.”

The two-year-old Fae baby had not exactly been planned. And it had shocked their Battle Mage Leila when Raphael had confirmed she was indeed pregnant. But the family was happy to have the new addition. Petunia was especially happy to have another baby in the house. 

Wikhn had secretly made a bet between Lochlan, Israfel, and Sirius about how long it would be before Petunia would become pregnant again now that Arwen was becoming more independent. He did not expect to win that bet. After all, Sirius and Lochlan were Soulbonded to Petunia. Giving them a distinct advantage over Wikhn or Israfel. They could charm the lovely Submissive in the hope to get her pregnant in time to win the bet after all. Wikhn supposed Israfel could play that card too, though he did not have a Soulbond in play.

Wikhn hummed and moved out of the shadows. He came up behind Harry and smiled at the little girl when she grizzled at him. “Loll!” She held out her little hand.

Wikhn hummed even as Harry jumped and scowled at him. “Only if Adam says you can have it.”

“Loll!” She demanded again.

“We say please, Arwen.”

“Please! Loll!” She parroted making everyone chuckle because it was no less demanding.

Harry watched as Wikhn pull a deep violet coloured lollypop from his pocket. He pulled the plastic wrapper from it and handed it to Adam. Adam moved a few steps away to give the Lollypop to Arwen. Harry frowned up at his Bonded.

“So how long has my family known about you?”

“Depends on who you are asking about. Gabriel and Lochlan tracked me down the day after I first stumbled upon your bedroom all those years ago.” 

Harry’s eyes widened in shock, but Gabriel came up and put his arms around him from behind. “When my son says that someone was in his bedroom, I take that very seriously.”

“But you never said anything.”

“I did not need to. Raphael suspected that you were Soulbonded which was what was allowing Wikhn to come through our wards. Back then Wikhn only visited when he needed a safe place to hide. I was not going to deny him that.”

“Then when we discovered our Soulbond for ourselves, I went to Lochlan and let him know I would be coming over most nights to keep the unfulfilled Bond from affecting you adversely. I wasn’t just going to change my pattern without offering them an explanation.”

Harry nodded and Gabriel hugged him. “Then Wikhn did the right thing. When you could not tolerate the open Soulbond any longer, he came to all of us to receive our blessing before he sealed your Bond.”

“You all agreed.”

“Yes. Lily was, of course, pissed at Lochlan and me for allowing Wikhn to go into your bedroom, though.”

Harry blushed and turned to face his Bearer, “Mum really!! I am still a virgin, for Arielle’s sake!”

Lily huffed, “Well that is good to hear, but I still don’t like the fact a grown man has been staying in your room.”

James chuckled as he pulled her close, “Don’t mind your Mum, Harry. She slept in my dormitory before we Bonded.”

Harry smiled at his Sire. Harry reached up and removed the necklace that held the concealing charm. When Wikhn’s mark became visible on Harry’s throat Gabriel raised an eyebrow at him so Wikhn signed that it had been Harry’s choice.

Wikhn found himself in an armchair soon after with Harry curled up on his lap. The family talked freely about their plans for going to Neverah and Harry was relieved to hear Wikhn would be staying with him, since Lily had been almost unanimously overruled. Harry’s resistance to the trip melted away as his and Wikhn’s opinions were asked. Wikhn kissed the top of Harry’s head. Whatever Neverah would bring for them they would face it together.